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Entertainment

The growth of online slots

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Gambling has transformed significantly in recent decades, with the rise of online slots and virtual casinos, allowing players to gamble from home or on the go. This shift raises questions about the growing popularity of online slots compared to traditional casinos. In this article, we’ll examine the growth of online slots, the impact of bonuses on participation in online gambling, and their comparison to traditional casinos.

The evolution of online slots

Online slots have grown rapidly since the launch of the first virtual casino in the mid-1990s. Early online slot games were simple, two-dimensional versions of traditional machines, lacking the excitement and immersion of real-world counterparts.

Advancements in technology soon revolutionised online slots, which now feature high-definition graphics, engaging soundtracks, and interactive bonus features that often rival or surpass physical casinos. 

Game developers have introduced diverse themes, from ancient mythology to blockbuster movies, enhancing entertainment and appealing to a wide range of players.

The growth of mobile gaming has further boosted online slots. With the widespread availability of smartphones and tablets, players can enjoy their favourite slots anytime, anywhere, without visiting a physical casino. This convenience has been a major factor in making online slots more accessible to a broader audience.

The role of bonuses and promotions

A major factor behind the popularity of online slots is the use of bonuses to attract new players and retain existing ones. You can find the best casino bonuses reviewed and recommended to help you choose the right offers. 

As competition grows, online casinos offer lucrative promotions to draw players away from traditional casinos. Popular promotions, such as welcome bonuses, free spins, and deposit matches, provide players with extra funds to gamble.

These bonuses differ greatly from traditional casinos, where upfront incentives are rare. Land-based casinos typically offer loyalty programmes with perks like free meals or hotel stays, but these rewards usually require substantial spending, making them less accessible to the average player compared to the more immediate bonuses available online.

The regularity of these online promotions has played a significant role in boosting participation in online gambling. The ease and transparency of accessing bonuses make it simpler for new players to try online slots, leading to increased involvement and further enhancing the popularity of virtual casinos.

Are online slots more popular than traditional casinos?

The rise of online slots has led to a shift in consumer preferences, with many finding the convenience of gambling from home more appealing than visiting traditional casinos. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this trend, as lockdowns closed physical casinos, driving more people to online platforms for entertainment.

Statistics back up this shift. According to the UK Gambling Commission, the online gambling market now accounts for a significant portion of total gambling revenue. In 2023, online gambling, driven largely by slot machines, hit a record £15.01 billion for the year ending March 2023. 

A key factor behind the popularity of online slots is the vast range of games available. Traditional casinos are limited by space and can only offer a set number of machines, while online casinos can host thousands of slot games. Additionally, online slots often provide higher payout rates, making them more attractive to players looking for better odds.

The future of online slots

The future of online slots looks bright, with innovations set to enhance the player experience even further. Online slots have arguably become more popular than traditional casinos due to their convenience, variety, and the appeal of bonuses and promotions. While physical casinos still offer a unique, social experience, the continued rise of online gaming platforms suggests that virtual slots are firmly on the rise.

Entertainment

Milford Haven set to celebrate Founding Day 2025 in June

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Annual Event Promises Community Fun and Festivities on June 8

MILFORD HAVEN is gearing up for its annual Founding Day celebration, scheduled for Saturday, June 8, 2025. Organized by the Milford Haven Business Circle, this event aims to bring together residents and visitors for a day filled with entertainment, local business showcases, and family-friendly activities.

Event highlights:

  • Family-Friendly Activities: Attendees can look forward to various attractions suitable for all ages, including bouncy castles, slides, face painting, and small rides.
  • Local Business Participation: Local businesses and organizations are expected to host indoor stalls, pop-up shops, and provide engaging games and demonstrations, offering unique products and services to visitors.
  • Live Performances: Live music and performances will provide a vibrant backdrop to the day’s festivities, showcasing local talent and adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

The Milford Haven Business Circle is actively seeking support from local businesses to ensure the event’s success. Sponsorship packages are available, offering various promotional opportunities, and businesses can also contribute by donating raffle prizes or assisting with event logistics.

How to get involved:

  • Sponsorship and Donations: Businesses interested in sponsoring the event or donating prizes can contact the organizers for more information on available packages and benefits.
  • Volunteer Opportunities: Community members wishing to volunteer their time and skills to assist with event preparations and on-the-day activities are encouraged to reach out.

For more details or to offer support, please contact the organizers through the Milford Haven Business Circle Facebook page or via email at [email protected].

The community’s collaborative spirit has been instrumental in the event’s past successes, and Milford Haven’s Founding Day 2025 promises to be another memorable celebration of the town’s rich heritage and vibrant community life.

Mayor and Consort at last year’s event (Image: Herald)
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Entertainment

Welsh Motorsport & Supercar Festival returns to Pembrey

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THE WELSH Motorsport & Supercar Festival is set to return to Pembrey Circuit on Sunday, September 21, 2025, with backing from The Trade Centre Wales and Iconic Auctioneers.

The Trade Centre Wales, the country’s largest used car supermarket, operates from sites in Abercynon and Neath, offering thousands of vehicles. Iconic Auctioneers, a globally recognised auction house, specialises in classic and modern supercars, competition vehicles, and automobilia.

Last year’s inaugural event drew 6,000 fans to the ‘Home of Welsh Motorsport,’ granting visitors unprecedented access to paddocks, supercar zones, motorsport displays, pit garages, and live-action demonstrations. The 2025 edition promises an even bigger spectacle, with more historic Formula 1 cars, rare motorsport machinery, and high-profile motorsport personalities. A headline theme will be announced soon.

Fan experience will be a priority, with improvements based on feedback from last year. Additional car parks within Pembrey will ease entry, a new food village will offer a wider selection, and more seating and improved signage will enhance the visitor experience.

Mark Bailey, founder of The Trade Centre Wales, said: “As a company founded in Wales, we are immensely proud to support the Welsh Motorsport & Supercar Festival at Pembrey Circuit. This event allows us to give back to the local community and connect with passionate motorsport fans.”

Iconic Auctioneers classic car specialist Arwel Richards added: “Last year’s festival was a phenomenal success, proving that motorsport and supercar enthusiasts exist in their thousands beyond the M4. We’re excited to be involved.”

Pembrey Circuit Manager Phil Davies said: “Having The Trade Centre Wales and Iconic Auctioneers as partners strengthens the event, and they will be showcasing some never-before-seen cars. We aim to build on last year’s success to make this year’s festival even bigger and better.”

Welsh Motorsport & Supercar Festival
Pembrey Circuit, Sunday, September 21, 2025
Tickets: £22 in advance / Children 15 and under FREE
More information: pembreycircuit.co.uk/event/welsh-motorsport-supercar-festival
BARC (Pembrey) Ltd., Pembrey Circuit, Pembrey, Carmarthenshire, SA16 0HZ

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Entertainment

Rich Hall set to bring razor-sharp comedy to Torch Theatre

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“CHIN MUSIC” has two meanings. One refers to idle talk. The other is a brushback throw in baseball or cricket, aimed at unsettling the batter. Both describe Rich Hall’s comedy—sharp, quick, and intimidating, yet effortlessly off-the-cuff. If you’ve never seen him live, now’s your chance—he’s coming to the Torch Theatre, and he never disappoints. Ever.

A master of stand-up, music, and improvisation, Rich Hall has been a comedy heavyweight for decades. The American comedian first rose to fame in the 1980s as a sketch performer, appearing on shows such as Fridays, Not Necessarily the News, and Saturday Night Live. In the UK, he’s a familiar face on QI, Live at the Apollo, and Have I Got News for You. He’s also a prolific writer, having penned articles for The Guardian and The Sunday Times, as well as starring in his own BBC Radio 4 series, Rich Hall’s (US Election) Breakdown.

“We always love a good night of comedy, full of belly laughs here at the Torch Theatre,” said Jordan Dickin from the venue’s marketing team. “Following a very long winter, a night of comedy is just what’s needed to brush away the cobwebs—and Rich Hall is the man to do just that.”

Rich Hall will take to the stage at the Torch Theatre on Thursday, April 17, at 8:00pm. This will be his only performance in West Wales during his 2025 tour.

🎟 Tickets: £18
STRICTLY 14+ (contains strong language and adult content)
📍 Book now: www.torchtheatre.co.uk or call the Box Office on (01646) 695267.

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