Entertainment

Rolling Stones gig raised during talks over Haverfordwest castle plans

Published

5 months ago

July 28, 2024

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

PLANS to create a 500-seat multi-purpose entertainment area in the grounds of Haverfordwest’s castle raised both tales of the noise levels of Rolling Stones gigs and the biblical battle of Jericho.

An application before the July meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee recommended delegated conditional approval for the local authority application for the creation of a multi-purpose entertainment and events venue within the inner ward area of Haverfordwest Castle.

The application forms part of the Levelling-up-funded Heart of Pembrokeshire: Rediscovering Haverfordwest scheme.

The interior of the Grade-I-listed castle, a Scheduled Monument, is currently a grassy space next to the former Governor’s House (now used as a museum) and the adjacent former gâol building, a report for planners said.

It added: “The proposal comprises the creation of a multi-purpose entertainment and events venue to be used for a range of temporary events. The capacity would be a minimum of 500 seated (with possibly more for standing events).

“The scope includes the provision of a temporary stage area and audience seating for performance events. The same area would also be used as a ‘market street’ that would comprise temporary stalls.”

The works proposed consist of four elements: the re-contouring of the inner ward’s existing sloping topography, changes in levels to limited areas of ground around the internal perimeter of the castle’s north wall, the erection of permanent steel gates at the inner ward entrance, and the installation of a feeder pillar and below ground services run, committee members heard.

The applicant states that the proposal would “create a vibrant outdoor event space capable of supporting a range of activity as part of the normal castle visitor experience,” the report says, and “the space should be designed to be entirely removable (but in practice only removed on occasions when it is necessary to do so)”.

It added: “These proposals have been developed simultaneously with other schemes within the Scheduled Monument and Castle grounds such as the repairs to the castle and the refurbishment of the gâol. All three schemes are interlinked to deliver an improved visitor facility.”

At the July planning meeting, concerns about potential noise impact on the structure of the castle walls were raised by Cllr Iwan Ward, with Cllr Rhys Jordan, chairing the item as committee chair Cllr Simon Hancock had declared an interest, reflecting: “Rumour or truth, the Rolling Stones were [once] due to play Pembroke Castle until there were fears raised it would fall down.”

Cllr John Cole took a more biblical point of reference, reflecting: “Noise was supposed to have destroyed the walls of Jericho,” asking if there was a way of finding out about potential noise impact on the historic structure.

He was told that was a matter for CADW, which had approved Scheduled Monument consent, rather than the planning committee.

Moving delegated approval, Cllr Mark Carter said: “It’s another case of revitalising the town, it seems very sensible to me,” seconded by new committee member Cllr Andrew Edwards, who said it would “bring more footfall” into the town.

Delegated approval was overwhelmingly backed, with one abstention.

In 1973 promoters of the Stones, who were the biggest band in the world at the time, approached Pembroke Borough Council with the idea of staging a concert for 12,000 fans.

In the end the council decided that the event would be too risky and refused permission, but not before adverts had been placed in the national press and posters had been distributed.

The cancellation of the concert left a lot of people feeling very disappointed and it has been talked about in Pembroke ever since.

Entertainment

Unearthed Festival 2025: Headliners announced for 10th anniversary celebration

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE UNEARTHED FESTICAL is set to celebrate its 10th anniversary in style, with headline performances from Macka B, Natty, and Ozric Tentacles.

Adding to the excitement, Marcus Gad is anticipated to join the lineup, though this awaits final confirmation, as stated in a recent newsletter to the festival’s mailing list.

The much-loved festival, renowned for its vibrant blend of music and arts, is gearing up for its milestone year. Organisers are urging festival-goers to secure their spots early, as campervan spaces, dog passes, and parking permits are in limited supply.

Early bird tickets for Unearthed 2025 sold out in record time, a testament to the festival’s enduring popularity among its dedicated fan base.

In a statement to attendees, the festival team said: “These epic artists are Unearthed icons, and as it’s our 10th anniversary festival, we couldn’t imagine celebrating without them.”

To mark the occasion, a redesigned festival website was unveiled last Friday, alongside the opening of applications for performers, volunteers, traders, and other contributors. The team encourages prompt submissions to ensure a chance to participate in this landmark event.

Adding to the festive spirit, organisers have also extended an invitation to their New Year’s Eve party—a warm-up to the main event next summer.

The Unearthed Festival has built a reputation over the past decade for delivering a unique community experience, blending diverse music, art, and culture in a way that resonates deeply with attendees.

As part of the broader summer festival scene, Unearthed continues to stand out as a celebration of creativity and connection, promising another unforgettable year in 2025.

Entertainment

Does Deal or No Deal need to attract more Welsh players?

Published

4 days ago

December 19, 2024

Staff Writer

With ITV’s reboot of Deal or No Deal now in full swing, fans have noticed that some of the most exciting moments have involved Welsh contestants. With viewers highlighting the charm and entertainment value of Welsh players, we’ve discussed why the hit game show could benefit from getting more locals involved.

The popularity of Deal or No Deal

The initial run of the UK’s Deal or No Deal was broadcast on Channel 4 between 2005 and 2016 before quietly being axed. In 2023, a new revival returned to ITV with a slightly altered format. With viewers flocking to the series in droves, the broadcaster was quick to renew the show for another season this year.

As the game is entirely luck-based, it has made it a great source of inspiration for online gambling games. This includes multiple online slots and even live dealer game shows with Deal or No Deal branding. These are featured at several quality sites that offer UK casino bonuses to new players in Wales, including 888Casino. Until the Welsh get more representation on the show, this is one of the best ways for players to experience being a contestant.

Welshman centre of memorable episode

During the early weeks of the series’ revival in 2023, an episode featuring Portsmouth-based Welsh player Simon inspired a passionate response from viewers after he played a comically bad game. Simon was adamant that his case contained £100,000, only to watch his chances at fortune slowly dwindle.

His confidence ultimately saw him make poor decisions after poor decisions, turning down strong offers and even inspiring viewers to back the Banker in frustration. The game culminated with Simon opening his case to win 10p. Despite his poor efforts, the episode generated widespread online conversations, leading us to believe that more Welsh players deserve a go at the jackpot.

The case for more Welsh players

After Simon’s disastrous performance, it seems fair that another Welsh player is invited along to do their country proud. In the final episode of the series’ ITV broadcast in 2023, Welsh player Jamie Foulkes from Cefn Mawr became an audience favourite after displaying the natural charming and quick wit characteristic of our locals.

His gameplay saw him nicknamed “mystic Jamie” for his ability to correctly guess case amounts, and after an extended moment of consideration, accepted a life-changing Banker’s offer of £14,850. This is a considerable amount when considering the top prize in the relaunched edition is £100,000 rather than the previous £250,000 offered.

The revival series is produced in Salford’s Media City complex, making it only a short drive away from residents in Northern Wales. This was one of the reasons that Foulkes applied for the show, so there’s no reason why more Welsh players couldn’t be selected.

Welsh players bring something special

Whether it’s the captivating yet frustrating performance of Simon or the charming run of Jamie Foulkes, Welsh players have already made a splash on the revived series of Deal or No Deal. We hope that the future season will showcase more local players to display our unique charms across the UK.

Entertainment

River-themed lanterns light up Cardigan in spectacular parade

Published

4 days ago

December 19, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THOUSANDS of people flocked to Cardigan on Monday (Dec 18) for the much-anticipated Giant Lantern Parade, hosted by Small World Theatre. Originally scheduled for Dec 6, the event was postponed due to Storm Darragh but proved to be a dazzling highlight of the festive season in Ceredigion.

The parade, inspired by the River Teifi, received financial support from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund as part of the Cynnal y Cardi Community Fund, administered by Ceredigion County Council. The festivities drew crowds from near and far, with Cardigan’s mayor, Cllr Olwen Davies, among those in attendance.

Leading the procession were the vibrant beats of Pembrokeshire-based Samba Doc and stunning giant feature lanterns. The parade snaked through the town and down to the quayside, where thousands of spectators enjoyed the spectacle. Larger-than-life lantern creatures crafted by pupils of Ysgol Uwchradd Aberteifi and pyramid lantern displays created by pupils from Ysgol Gynradd Aberteifi, Ysgol Llechryd, Cardigan youth groups, and the public added to the event’s charm.

This year, Cardigan is also hosting a Festival of Light, offering a series of festive attractions. In addition to the Lantern Parade, Small World Theatre has curated a Light Trail that runs from 4:30pm to 9:00pm daily, showcasing illuminated lanterns on buildings, creative light displays, and artworks throughout the town. Local independent cafes, shops, and galleries have joined in the festive spirit, decorating their windows to welcome visitors until Christmas.

Cllr Clive Davies expressed his excitement about the festivities:
“We’re delighted to have so many brilliant events happening in Cardigan, and the Giant Lantern Parade is exceptional. Congratulations to Small World Theatre and the community.”

Ann Shrobree, Director of Small World Theatre, thanked everyone involved:
“Thanks to everyone who helped—Ceredigion County Council, Cardigan Town Council, marshals from Cardigan Show and Barley Saturday Committees, Cardigan Castle, and our brilliant volunteers and first aiders. Samba Doc, fire juggling performers, and so many more came together to create a very special event for all.”

This year’s Lantern Parade has cemented its place as a cherished tradition, lighting up Cardigan and spreading festive joy across the community.