WITH beloved classics including Cinderella, The Nutcracker and Turandot and new opera productions of The Tales of Hoffmann and Die Walküre, Royal Ballet and Opera fans will be delighted with the array of cinema screenings here at the Torch Theatre during 2024 and 2025.

Bringing the thrill of world-class theatre to our cinema screen here in Pembrokeshire and offering audiences a view from the best seat in the house, the exciting programme shares the joy of live performance, and the beauty of world-class art,

Director of The Royal Ballet, Kevin O’Hare, said: “This Season we’re thrilled to share three dynamic Company classics with our cinema audiences: the riotously inventive Alices Adventures in Wonderland by Christopher Wheeldon; Frederick Ashton’s magical fairytale Cinderella; and Kenneth MacMillan’s searing dramatic tragedy Romeo and Juliet. Christopher Wheeldon’s Ballet to Broadway will be another opportunity to watch the versatility and energy of our dancers up close, and for Christmas we have a special 40^th anniversary screening of The Nutcracker which is sure to delight. We can’t wait to share these cinema moments with you.”

Director of Opera, The Royal Opera, Oliver Mears, added: “Opera is perhaps the most visceral and emotionally-charged artform, and I am so glad that our cinema audiences will be able to experience our work with us, particularly with three live opera broadcasts. With an extraordinary group of cast and creatives behind each show, it is going to be fantastic.”

The opera season is already in full swing and on Tuesday 22 October you can see Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, followed by the family friendly Wolf Witch Giant Fairy on Friday 1 and Saturday 2 November. Going into December, be amazed by the spectacular showing of Cinderella on the 10 December with a firm Christmas favourite of The Nutcracker on Sunday 22 December.

The new year sees a new production as Olivier award-winning director Damiano Michieletto returns to The Royal Opera for Offenbach’s The Tales of Hoffmann. Juan Diego Flórez sings the role of the poet E.T.A Hoffmann and Olga Pudova, Marina Costa-Jackson and Ermonela Jaho sing the roles of his unforgettable trio of lovers. Filmed live on stage in November 2024, The Tales of Hoffmann will be screened at the Torch Theatre on Tuesday 21 January.

Swan Lake takes us into February while Puccini’s final opera, Turandot, will be broadcast live at the Torch on Tuesday 1 April. Drawing on Chinese and Italian theatrical tradition to evoke a richly imagined, mythical Peking, Andrei Şerban’s dazzling production is one of the most spectacular in The Royal Opera’s repertory. Rafael Payare conducts, Sondra Radvanovsky sings the title role.

Following the glittering triumph of Das Rheingold, Barrie Kosky delves back into Wagner’s mythic universe with the second instalment of the Ring cycle, Die Walküre. With Antonio Pappano leading from the podium, Christopher Maltman reprises the role of Wotan, alongside Elisabet Strid (Brünnhilde), Lise Davidsen (Sieglinde), and Stanislas de Barbeyrac (Siegmund) on Sunday 18 May.

Ballet to Broadway – Wheeldon Works on Wednesday 28 May brings the Torch Theatre’s 2024/25 opera season to an end.

To book your tickets or for further information, contact the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk. Buy any five titles from the Royal Ballet & Opera or MET Opera 24/25 season, get the fifth title half price,

As online gambling grows in popularity, many in the UK are turning to online casinos for entertainment. However, navigating this landscape can be challenging, especially regarding safety and security. While online gambling can be enjoyable, it’s crucial to choose platforms that are trustworthy and well-regulated. 

This guide outlines the key factors to consider when selecting the most trusted online casinos in the UK, ensuring a safe and enjoyable gambling experience.

Understanding the dangers of online gambling

While online gambling can be an exciting form of entertainment, it’s essential to recognise the risks involved. In 2024, approximately 38% of adults in the UK participated in online gambling, and issues related to problem gambling remain a growing concern. 

Recent reports indicate that around 2.5% of participants scored in the high-risk category for gambling disorders, with younger adults (aged 18-24) being particularly vulnerable​. 

As a result, more players are seeking help, and gambling-related harm continues to affect relationships, finances, and mental health. Awareness of these risks is critical to staying safe.

• Addiction: The ease of access can lead to compulsive gambling habits.
• Financial loss: Players risk overspending and getting into debt, especially when chasing losses.
• Unregulated casinos: Some online platforms operate without proper licensing, exposing players to unfair games and fraud.
• Data vulnerability: Personal and financial details may be at risk on unsecured sites.

Approaching online gambling with caution can prevent these issues.

1. Verify the licence and regulation

The first step in choosing an online casino is to confirm it is licensed and regulated. For safe UK casinos online, they must be licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), which enforces strict rules to protect players and prevent illegal activities like money laundering. 

Look for the UKGC logo on the casino’s website, or verify the licence on the UKGC’s official site. Playing on a licensed platform ensures a safe and fair gambling environment.

2. Prioritise SSL encryption for data protection

When using online casinos, you’ll need to share personal and financial details, so it’s vital to choose a platform with SSL encryption. This technology protects sensitive data, like bank details, from hackers. 

To confirm SSL encryption, look for a padlock in the browser’s address bar or ensure the URL starts with “https” instead of “http,” indicating a secure site.

3. Look for fair play and game audits

A trustworthy online casino ensures fair play by having its games regularly audited by third-party agencies like eCOGRA or iTech Labs. These audits confirm that games are fair, random, and unbiased. 

Reputable casinos display certifications from these agencies, giving players confidence that the platform isn’t manipulating game outcomes.

4. Review payment methods and withdrawal policies

A reliable online casino should offer secure payment methods like Visa, MasterCard, PayPal, and bank transfers for safe deposits and withdrawals. Be sure to check withdrawal policies, as trusted casinos process payouts promptly and clearly. 

Avoid sites with delayed or confusing withdrawal procedures, as hassle-free payouts are a key sign of a trustworthy platform.

5. Evaluate reputation and customer support

Before choosing an online casino, research its reputation through customer reviews and industry awards like the EGR Operator Awards. Also, ensure they offer responsive 24/7 customer support via multiple channels and test their service quality by sending a query.

6. Read the terms and conditions

While it may be tedious, reading the terms and conditions is essential as it covers important details like bonuses, withdrawal limits, and wagering requirements. Trustworthy casinos present these clearly without hidden fine print, allowing you to understand when and how you can withdraw your winnings.

7. Responsible gambling measures

Trusted UK online casinos promote responsible gambling by offering tools like deposit limits, self-exclusion, and cooling-off periods to help players manage their behaviour. They also link to support organisations such as GambleAware and GamCare to assist with gambling addiction. 

Choosing a platform that prioritises responsible gambling ensures a safer and more controlled gaming experience.

Conclusion

Finding a trusted online casino in the UK requires thorough research and attention to detail. By choosing platforms that are licensed, secure, fair, and transparent, you can safeguard yourself from risks and enjoy a safer gambling experience. 

Always prioritise your safety by sticking to reputable, regulated platforms, and walk away from any casino that raises concerns. Ultimately, safety is the key to ensuring an enjoyable and worry-free online gambling experience.

The British high street in 2024 remains a battleground of mixed fortunes as both long-standing institutions and new businesses adapt to the rapid rise of online alternatives. This year has seen further shifts in consumer behaviour, impacting various sectors, including retail, hospitality, and high street bookmakers. With the backdrop of inflation, changes in disposable income, and growing digitalisation, the high street has seen varying degrees of success and decline.

The current state of the high street

A recent PWC report highlights how in Q3 and Q4 of 2024, the British high street continues to face pressures from rising costs, supply chain issues, and changing consumer behaviour. The shift to online shopping remains a major challenge, contributing to ongoing store closures—currently at 38 per day. 

While government initiatives like the Levelling Up Fund have provided some relief, the impact has been uneven, with retail parks and shopping centres showing resilience compared to high streets.

In Wales, high streets remain central to communities but are experiencing similar difficulties. The convenience of online shopping and reduced footfall have led to more closures, especially for smaller retailers, chemists, and banks. Without further intervention, some high streets risk falling into a continued cycle of decline.

Bookmakers

High street bookmakers, once central to British town life, have struggled due to the rise of online betting platforms. The convenience of mobile apps has drastically reduced foot traffic, with approximately 30% of betting shops closing over the past five years. Tighter regulations on Fixed Odds Betting Terminals (FOBTs) have also hurt revenue. 

In contrast, online bookmakers have thrived by offering 24/7 access, better odds, and frequent promotions, making it easier to find an online casino than visiting a physical shop. While some customers still appreciate the social aspect of betting shops, operators are increasingly merging physical and digital experiences to remain competitive.

Retail

Traditional high-street retailers, particularly in fashion and electronics, have also struggled. The convenience and vast offerings of e-commerce giants like Amazon have pulled consumers away from physical stores. 

Major chains such as Debenhams have disappeared from the high street, while others like John Lewis have significantly reduced their physical footprint. To remain competitive, many retailers are adopting omnichannel strategies, blending online shopping with in-store experiences, though rising costs and reduced foot traffic remain significant challenges.

Hospitality

The hospitality sector, including cafés and restaurants, has faced a mixed outlook in 2024. While chains like Costa and Pret A Manger have made a strong recovery after the pandemic, independent establishments, particularly pubs, continue to struggle with rising costs and labour shortages. 

Furthermore, the popularity of online food delivery platforms, such as Uber Eats and Just Eat, has reshaped the dining experience, pushing many restaurants to focus on takeaway services rather than dine-in customers. To stay competitive, some venues are investing in technology, offering digital menus and contactless payments to streamline the customer experience.

Bank branches

Another sector experiencing significant change is banking. The rise of online banking and fintech has led to widespread bank branch closures across the UK, as consumers increasingly manage their finances digitally. 

Banks such as HSBC and Barclays have significantly reduced their physical footprint, leaving many towns without a local branch. This has particularly impacted older customers and those in rural areas, where access to digital services can be limited. In response, some banks are experimenting with smaller, more flexible branch formats or failing this, a mobile banking van scheme.

Independent retailers

While large chains are shrinking, some independent retailers are finding ways to thrive. The rise of campaigns encouraging consumers to shop locally has bolstered small businesses, especially in areas like Wales, where supporting local producers and artisans has become a cultural priority. 

Many independent retailers are embracing e-commerce alongside their physical shops, using social media and online marketplaces to reach wider audiences while maintaining their personal, community-focused approach.

Conclusion

In 2024, the British high street continues to face an uphill battle as online alternatives dominate the retail and betting landscapes. While government interventions have provided some relief to struggling high streets, the future remains uncertain. 

High-street bookmakers, retailers, and even banks face growing competition from online services, which offer greater convenience and flexibility. The shift towards digital experiences and declining foot traffic threatens the traditional high street, but businesses that innovate and adapt may yet find ways to survive and thrive in this evolving environment.