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Bluestone appoints two high-profile non-executive directors

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BLUESTONE NATIONAL PARK RESORT has recruited two high-profile non-executive directors comprising a former Trinity Mirror executive who joins the business as chair and a former senior executive with Microsoft.

Blanche Sainsbury is a former senior executive with Trinity Mirror who also worked at newspaper groups Northcliffe and Local World before being appointed commercial director of Local World in November 2013. She continued to hold the same role for Trinity Mirror, following the takeover of Local Word in 2015.

Sainsbury will replace Andrew Probert, the former finance director of insurer Admiral, as chair. Probert will continue in the position of non-executive director.

Nick Barley’s executive career has spanned 35 years and included CEO, CMO and COO positions at Microsoft, Oracle, Hewlett Packard and Computer Associates. He is also the founder of consulting organisation, outcomes, non-executive chairman of eCommerce specialist Netalogue and he holds non-executive director positions at Coachwise and Physical Activity.

Bluestone, which already employs 700 staff, has strengthened its board of directors to help drive a period of growth. It sought directors with specialist experience able to guide it and offer insights on strategic development.

The new recruits will join an existing board comprising: chief executive William McNamara; commercial and operations director Pamela McNamara; finance director Neil Evans; and director of HR Debbie Rainbow.

William McNamara, chief executive of Bluestone, said:  We are delighted to announce the appointment of two non-executive directors to the Bluestone board of directors.

“Both Blanche and Nick join the business with a depth of experience which we look forward to them applying to Bluestone in order to support our ongoing business development.

“I would like to thank Andrew for his support and input during the last four years as chairman and look forward to working with both Nick and Blanche in the exciting years ahead.

“Staff will have an opportunity to meet Blanche and Nick over the course of the next few weeks and we are sure they will join us in welcoming them into the business and look forward to working with them both.”

Andrew Probert added: “I’m very pleased to welcome Blanche and Nick as the new non-executive directors of the company, and to be handing over the chairmanship of the board to Blanche.

“Both, I am sure, will bring a fresh impetus to the next stage of Bluestone’s development with their complimentary skills and their real enthusiasm for the business. My time as chairman has seen the park flourish, with the completion of the lodge building programme and visitor numbers rising to 150,000 per year, all through the hard and dedicated work of the executive management and staff. This has been achieved while establishing a stable and profitable financial base, which will enable even greater things to come.”

Jason Llewellyn, director of Corporate Banking at Barclays, said: “We welcome the appointment of Blanche and Nick to the team. By really understanding the business and the industry sector, Barclays is delighted to be able to continue to support Bluestone.

“Over the past three years Bluestone has made great progress, investing in additional accommodation in the Park and demonstrating a strong track record of cash generation and profitability.

“We are delighted to continue to play a role in helping the management team realise their ambitions and look forward to the next phase of the business’s development.”

Community

Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

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SCOOTER enthusiasts from across the country are set to descend on Tenby for the eagerly anticipated return of the Welsh National Scooter Rally this May Bank Holiday weekend. This marks the event’s grand return to the popular seaside destination for the first time since 2022, promising a vibrant celebration of scooter culture.

Organised by the Scooter Collective South Wales, the rally is expected to draw hundreds to Pembrokeshire’s “jewel in the crown.” Attendees can look forward to a colourful array of scooters lining the historic Tenby High Street, adding a splash of retro charm to the town’s picturesque scenery.

The weekend’s schedule is packed with activities, starting with a scenic ‘ride-out’ from Tenby United RFC on Heywood Lane on Saturday afternoon. This event promises to be a visual spectacle, with a parade of beautifully maintained and creatively decorated scooters cruising through the local area.

Music lovers have plenty to get excited about as well. The Specials Limited, a renowned two-tone tribute band, will be performing at the De Valence Pavilion on Friday night, supported by DJ Steve Foster. Concurrently, the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and Tenby Rugby Club will host rooms dedicated to Northern Soul and Reggae soul, respectively, ensuring that there’s something to suit all musical tastes.

Saturday’s festivities will also feature a customs show and traders fair at the Rugby Ground. This event provides a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to showcase their scooters and exchange tips and accessories with fellow aficionados.

As the rally winds down, the weekend will conclude with a grand end-of-rally party at the Rugby Club, where participants can celebrate their shared passion for scooters and music, reflecting on a weekend full of fun and camaraderie.

For those planning to attend, the Welsh National Scooter Rally not only offers a chance to revel in scooter culture but also to explore the enchanting town of Tenby.

With its rich history and stunning coastal views, Tenby provides the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates classic style and community spirit.

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Community

Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan

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ON SATURDAY (Apr 27), the historic town of Cardigan in West Wales is abuzz with excitement as it hosts its largest annual event, Barley Saturday. This significant day marks not just a local festival but a vital link to the agricultural roots of the region, attracting spectators from across the country to witness a spectacular parade of livestock and vintage vehicles.

At 2 PM, the main streets of Cardigan transformed into a vibrant parade route featuring the best of rural life—from the supreme stallion, admired by an enthusiastic crowd, to the meticulously prepared parade participants. This parade not only showcases the beauty and strength of these animals but also the care and tradition that continue to thrive in Cardigan.

The event kicked off early with an impressive lineup of agricultural workhorses displayed on the show field. The anticipation built up throughout the day as crowds gathered, lining the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the gleaming vintage vehicles and the majestic livestock. According to Tudor Harries, the show secretary, “Barley Saturday helps restore the lost link between our community and its agricultural heritage.”

With such a large turnout, local authorities implemented strategic road closures and diversions to manage the flow of traffic effectively. Between 1:30 PM and 4 PM, several main roads were closed, ensuring the parade route remains clear and safe for both participants and spectators. Traffic around the town was slow-moving, indicating the high volume of attendees this year.

Beyond the festivities, Barley Saturday is a day of community and giving. Volunteers play a crucial role in marshaling the event, and bucket collections are conducted throughout the day, with all proceeds going to local charities. This spirit of community service is a testament to the values that underpin Barley Saturday.

Barley Saturday is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Cardigan’s heritage and a vital part of its cultural calendar. It offers a day filled with joy, community spirit, and a deep appreciation for the rural traditions that are so often overlooked in modern times. As the town enjoys today’s festivities, it also renews its connection to the past, ensuring that these traditions will not be forgotten.

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Charity

Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues

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ON Saturday, March 30, Peter Kraus undertook a 15.6-mile walk from Front Street in Pembroke Dock to Carew Castle to support veterans struggling with mental health issues and PTSD.

Originally believing the route to be 10 miles, Kraus faced a greater challenge than anticipated. He organized the walk through the Combat Stress Site, aiming to raise £1000. “They look after us and keep us safe,” Kraus told The Herald, expressing his effort as a gesture of gratitude towards the veterans.

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