News

Skills Cymru 2016 inspires next generation

Published

8 years ago

October 21, 2016

Busy event: Cardiff’s Motorpoint Arena was full ( Pic. Huw John)

YOUNG people from across Pembrokeshire were given a taste of different career options at SkillsCymru 2016, Wales’ largest careers fair, which took place at Cardiff’s Motorpoint Arena last week.

The event saw more than 50 employers exhibiting their range of career opportunities, including NHS Wales, Horizon Nuclear Power, Aldi and the RAF. Attendees were given the chance to meet apprentices and employers from a range of different industries including manufacturing, medicine, teaching, tourism, caring and catering.

British astronaut Tim Peake, who visited Techniquest on Thursday, October 13, spoke to students at SkillsCymru via a live link to the event. Students heard Tim talk about the important science experiments he conducted during his mission for researchers across the planet, including trying to gro w blood vessels and protein crystals, as well as using a furnace to melt and cool metal alloys as they float in mid-air.

The free event was attended by thousands of young people from schools, further education colleges and work-based learning providers across Wales, including Ysgol Bro Gwaun. The students were able to take part in interactive games, challenges, mock job interviews and were able to quiz exhibitors about career opportunities, learning routes and get careers advice for the future.

They were put through their paces by the British Army, had their welding skills tested using Lincoln Electric’s virtual reality simulator and took part in drama workshops with the Arts Council of Wales.

Thomas Roach-Carter, aged 15, joined fellow students from Ysgol Bro Gwaun at Skills Cymru where they had the chance to visit interactive stands and ask professionals for any career advice.

He said: “I’ve tried so many activities today such as the mocktail making with Cambrian Training. It has been great to look around the different stands. I’m currently doing my GCSE’s and wanting to go onto college so today I have spoken to some of the colleges and they’ve given me some helpful advice.”

Julie James, Minister for Skills and Science, attended the event and took the opportunity to listen to a performance of drums by students in the ‘Get Skilled’ workshop, run by the Arts Council of Wales, and met youngsters as they found out about apprenticeship opportunities and job vacancies.

Minister Julie James said: “SkillsCymru is a significant event in the careers calendar and is a must for anyone looking to find out more about the career opportunities in Wales from apprenticeships and other vocational routes to higher education or college courses.

“For many of the young people visiting, this was their first chance to speak to employers face-to-face and ask questions in a relaxed environment to find out what skills are required to achieve their dream job. It was really refreshing to see so many young people getting involved in the different hands-on activities and getting inspiration about their dream job and future career path.”

Part-financed through the European Social Fund, SkillsCymru is organised by Prospects and Cazbah, and supported by the Welsh Government. The careers events, which each year attract more than 10,000 visitors, take place annually at Venue Cymru in Llandudno and the Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff.

Charity

Set a New Year Challenge and explore Pembrokeshire for animals in 2025

Published

27 mins ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ANIMAL lovers in Pembrokeshire looking to set an exciting goal for 2025 can now sign up for the RSPCA’s fundraising challenges, including the iconic Tour of Pembrokeshire on 24 May 2025.

From scenic bike rides to adrenaline-fueled adventures, the RSPCA is encouraging participants to embrace a challenge that not only benefits their health but also helps animals in need.

Abi Mustard, Events Manager at the RSPCA, said: “If you’re looking for a unique challenge for the New Year, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers a perfect blend of stunning coastal views, physical endurance, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare.”

The Tour of Pembrokeshire is renowned for showcasing some of the most breathtaking routes in Wales, attracting cyclists of all abilities. Participants will navigate challenging climbs, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, all while raising crucial funds for the RSPCA’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across Wales.

Abi added: “Every mile cycled and every pound raised makes a difference. You’ll not only experience the beauty of Pembrokeshire but also become part of a dedicated team working to stop animal cruelty and neglect.”

Why Join the RSPCA Tour of Pembrokeshire Challenge?

Personalised support from the RSPCA events team
RSPCA branded cycling jersey once fundraising reaches £50
Access to a dedicated events Facebook group for tips and encouragement
Cheering packs for family and friends on event day

More RSPCA Challenges Across Wales in 2025

Chepstow Half Marathon: 26 January
ABP Newport Wales Marathon: 13 April
Gower Peninsula Challenge: 19–20 July
Snowdon Triple: 18–19 August
Cardiff Half Marathon: 5 October

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a first-time fundraiser, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers an unforgettable experience with a purpose.

To sign up or request a fundraising pack, visit the RSPCA website today and start your journey towards making a difference—for yourself and for animals in need.

Together, let’s make 2025 a year of action, compassion, and achievement.

News

Police close Westfield Pill Bridge over concerns for person’s welfare

Published

35 mins ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

FEARS for a person’s safety led police to close Westfield Pill Bridge, near Neyland.

The bridge, on the A477 between Honeyborough roundabout and the Cleddau Bridge, was shut for just over an hour, with drivers advised to seek alternative routes.

The incident took place on Friday evening and was concluded when the person was located safe and well.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a call for a concern for the welfare of an individual on Westfield Pill Bridge at around 7:30pm on Friday, December 20.

“The road was closed and reopened at around 8:40pm.

“The individual was located safe and well.”

This is not the first time such an incident has led to a bridge closure.

There have been several previous similar incidents, including on Friday, October 4, 2024, the Cleddau Bridge was closed for about an hour following a call reporting a welfare concern. The closure occurred at around 4:45pm, and the bridge reopened at 5:45pm.

The person involved was taken to the hospital for treatment.

In June, a multi–agency rescue operation unfolded at Neyland Marina after a youth jumped approximately 40 metres from Westfield Bridge into the water below.

Emergency services, including crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) stations in Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, and Carmarthen, were swiftly dispatched to the scene.

According to a spokesperson for MAWWFRS, members of the public were instrumental in rescuing the youth before the arrival of the emergency crews.

Charity

NatWest Cymru encourages customers in Wales to spread Christmas cheer

Published

50 mins ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

NATWEST has introduced a new way for its customers to support Social Bite in the fight against homelessness this festive season.

Through its mobile app based MyRewards programme, customers can now easily donate their available Rewards (over £5) to buy someone experiencing homelessness a Christmas dinner with Social Bite. NatWest has also pledged to match all donations to any of its 16 MyRewards charities, including Social Bite, up to the value of £50 until 31st December, up to a total of £150,000.

The initiative comes as part of Social Bite’s ‘Festival of Kindness’ – an annual mission that aims to provide 300,000 meals, gifts, and essential items to people who are homeless and vulnerable this Christmas.

NatWest has previously worked with the Scottish charity to open a coffee outlet for colleagues and visitors in its Royal Bank HQ in the capital Edinburgh, as well as launching a public coffee shop at its site at 440 Strand, London.

Since the launch of Festival of Kindness in 2020, Social Bite has successfully distributed 1.1 million meals, gifts, and essentials to people who are homeless during the festive period.

Jessica Shipman, Chair, NatWest Cymru Regional Board, said: “Social Bite makes a positive difference to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities. The festive season often brings into focus the hardship so many face every day.

“We know that people want to help but don’t know how. We’re excited to support Social Bite’s inspiring ‘Festival of Kindness’ initiative, giving our customers a way to gift a homeless person a warm meal.

“We encourage everyone to join in and help make the festive season a little brighter for the most vulnerable in our society.”

Josh Littlejohn MBE, Founder of Social Bite, added: “Social Bite is proud to have had the support of NatWest for a number of years, and together, we’ve made great strides to help people break the cycle of homelessness.

“For many of us, Christmas is a period where we look forward to spending time with friends, family and loved ones. However, the reality is very different for people without a place to call home over the festive season. With homelessness rising across the UK, it’s more important than ever that we do what we can to help people affected by homelessness and food poverty.

“A big thank you to all the wonderful NatWest customers who chose to donate their rewards to Social Bite. Your contribution will make a real difference to someone in need, including a hot meal with all the trimmings in loving company on Christmas Day.”

To find out more about NatWest’s MyRewards and the other charities which are being supported, please visit: https://personal.secure1.natwest.com/app/MyRewards