THIS Welsh contingent, all aged under 25, will be heading for glory in France as part of a 31-strong Team UK, just hours after the Olympic flame is dimmed. They will compete in a range of disciplines in the event known widely as the Skills Olympics.

Just like their sporting counterparts, the members of Team UK have dedicated themselves to rigorous preparation for this extraordinary chance to proudly represent their nation in their chosen careers.

The UK has been taking part in the WorldSkills Competition since 1953 and the event is used by governments, economists and global business leaders around the world as a litmus test to measure preparedness to optimise future economic growth.

WorldSkills UK, a four nations partnership between education, industry and UK governments, is responsible for selecting, mentoring and training Team UK. Pearson, the world’s leading learning company is the official partner of WorldSkills UK for WorldSkills Lyon 2024.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles MS said: “I’m delighted to announce the Welsh contingent in Team UK.

“The dedication and hard work of Ruby Pile, Oscar McNaughton, Rosie Boddy, Max Clarke, Arron Luker and Ruben Duggan exemplify the impact of skills development programs. Their participation in WorldSkills Lyon 2024 reflects the commitment to excellence and the pursuit of mastery in their disciplines.

“WorldSkills is a testament to skills development in Wales and globally. It provides a platform for talented individuals to showcase their expertise and compete at an international level.

“These skilled professionals represent a diverse range of fields, from Additive Manufacturing Aircraft Maintenance, Restaurant Services. Cyber Security and Plumbing and Heating, demonstrating the importance of vocational education and training.

“As we celebrate their achievements, let’s recognize the vital role that skills development plays in shaping our future workforce and fostering innovation.

“Just as we will be celebrating the athletic prowess of our sporting elite in Lyon the week before, we will cheer the talents and dedication of these six young competitors keen to showcase their prize-winning abilities.

“And it’s important to acknowledge the impressive representation of their country by considering the ratio of competitors to population. One in five of our national team is Welsh.

“We’re all so very proud of you here in Wales.

“I wish each and every one of our competitors and those from the rest of the UK the best of luck.”

Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive, WorldSkills UK said: “WorldSkills Lyon 2024 – think Olympic Games – where the prize is the world-class skills that UK employers are crying out for.

“The UK’s participation in the ‘skills Olympics’ will provide vital insights to ensure we can develop our apprenticeship and training programmes, to make them truly world-class.”

“I couldn’t be prouder of the exceptional young people in Team UK; they are fantastic role models. Together with Pearson, we will use their participation at WorldSkills to boost the prestige of technical and vocational education, inspiring many more young people to take up technical and vocational training across the UK to help drive investment, jobs and economic growth.”

GET ready to be swept away by the melodies of the West End as the Chess Brass Quintet takes centre stage at the Milford Haven Music Festival on Sunday, 26th May 2024.

Returning for their third captivating performance in Milford Haven, Chess Brass promises an afternoon of enchanting melodies and vibrant harmonies, set amidst the picturesque Lawns of Rathgate House.

Comprising five talented brass musicians – Ian and John on trumpet, Dickie on French horn, Phil on trombone, and Martin on tuba – Chess Brass brings a wealth of experience garnered from illustrious careers as freelance players in and around London.

Having refined their craft since departing from London music colleges in the late 80s, each member of Chess Brass has graced prestigious stages, collaborated with world-renowned orchestras, contributed to West End productions, and left their mark on many recordings. Beyond their professional endeavors, they generously share their expertise through teaching, nurturing the next generation of musical talent.

Despite the challenges of the Covid era, Chess Brass persevered, seizing opportunities to perform wherever regulations allowed, enriching the communities of Chesham and beyond with their musical prowess.

Their performance on Sunday, 26th May, promises to transport the audience on a journey through the captivating realms of West End shows and beloved musicals. With each note, Chess Brass Quintet invites attendees to immerse themselves in timeless melodies and infectious rhythms that have captured hearts around the world.

The event will be complemented by Traditional Afternoon Tea featuring Moët and Chandon Champagne from 2.30pm until 6.30pm, adding an extra touch of sophistication to an already magical afternoon. In addition to the musical extravaganza, attendees can enjoy Lawn Games scattered around the grounds of Rathgate House and participate in a comprehensive Charity Raffle.

A Limited Number of Tickets are still available at £30 each, inclusive of Champagne Afternoon Tea, from Ralph Rees – Telephone 07770 996280 or email [email protected].

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the brilliance of Chess Brass Quintet in the serene ambiance of Milford Haven. Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of music, camaraderie, and charitable spirit at the Milford Haven Music Festival 2024.

VOLUNTEER crew members of Little and Broad Haven RNLI were recently given back the keys to their station after an extensive refurbishment and expansion that was completed over winter.

Thanks to support from the RNLI the Little and Broad Haven lifeboat crew now have a base that is fit for their modern day lifesaving service. To celebrate, a team photo was taken to present the improvements to the wider public. During the refurbishment period the station remained operational 24-hours a day in temporary accommodation, but the crew are delighted to move the lifeboat and tractor back into its permanent new home.

Lifeboat Operations Manager Andy Grey commented: ‘After many years waiting for improved facilities at Little and Broad Haven Lifeboat Station the new refurbishment has finally been completed. Suffice to say, all the crew and officers are delighted with the results. At last we have a toilet and shower facility as well as a very modern and efficient crew changing area.

‘The crew meeting room upstairs has been upgraded and suitable for all our requirements. Similarly, the external wood panelling around the new build looks the part… truly a lifeboat station that the whole community can be proud of.’

An official opening is planned at a later date this year, which will also be part of the celebrations that are taking place this year to commemorate the 200^th anniversary of the RNLI lifeboat service being formed. There will also be an open day on Sunday 4 August where visitors will be welcome to take a peek at the newly refurbished station.

In the meantime, the lifeboat station is fully operational and provides the volunteer crew with a modern base for their lifesaving operations that can help them respond at any given moment, whenever they are needed to go and save lives at sea.

The crew are very grateful to Edward Perkins from Castle Photography and Framing in Haverfordwest for giving up his time and expertise to take the photo. They all donned their formal ‘Guernsey’ jumpers and wore their RNLI200 badges with pride.