News

Discover a Summer of fun and adventure with National Trust Cymru

Published

2 years ago

July 3, 2023

NATIONAL TRUST CYMRU is inviting families to explore a wealth of exciting events and activities this summer, promising unforgettable experiences amidst the picturesque landscapes of Wales.

This season, families can embark on a journey through magnificent Welsh castles, participate in the Summer of Play activities, or revel in the joy of natural play areas provided by National Trust Cymru. Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Starling Bank, some locations will even feature new and exhilarating activities.

Chirk Castle: Enchanting Adventures Await

Nestled in the heart of north Wales, Chirk Castle invites families to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of a giant straw bale castle. Children can navigate their way through this impressive structure, building their own forts along the way. Let their imaginations run wild as they create their own magical tales within the castle’s walls.

Dyffryn Gardens: A Symphony of Play

In the serene setting of Dyffryn Gardens in Cardiff, families will discover a garden transformed into a realm of music. Inspired by the Cory family’s deep appreciation for music, children can explore the wonders of outdoor musical sound, play unconventional percussion instruments, and engage in musical games. They can even don costumes and star in their own captivating theatrical performance in the Theater Garden. For those seeking quieter moments, designated areas offer the perfect space to appreciate the melodious sounds of nature.

Tredegar House: Endless Playtime

At Tredegar House in Newport, there is an abundance of activities to keep families entertained this summer. Engage in croquet and badminton matches on the picturesque gardens every Thursday and Saturday. Borrow cricket bats, frisbees, and more to fully enjoy the lazy afternoons in the parkland throughout the summer holidays. The Loose Parts play, Nature Play, and Performance Play provide endless opportunities for children to unleash their creativity. Additionally, in collaboration with Dyffryn Community Link, National Play Day sessions will be available free of charge.

Dinefwr: Rain or Shine, Adventure Awaits

No matter the weather, Dinefwr in Carmarthenshire offers an array of experiences for everyone. Test your skills on the newly built tennis court in front of the house or indulge in wet weather activities to keep the whole family entertained. Witness the majestic White Park Cattle and their adorable calves as they graze the front fields. Join the Tractor Tours on August 16th for a closer encounter with these legendary creatures. Explore the parkland at your own pace, spotting deer, ancient oak trees, and even a secret fairy village. The ’50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities ensure there’s never a dull moment at Dinefwr.

Dolaucothi: Golden Adventures

Uncover a golden experience at Dolaucothi in Carmarthenshire. The newly accessible gold panning area and rill beckon visitors to try their hand at finding hidden treasures. Equipped with pans and boundless curiosity, families can discover what lies beneath the surface. Dolaucothi Estate boasts 25 kilometers of footpaths teeming with nature and wildlife, perfect for delightful summer strolls. Explore the only known Roman goldmine in Britain with three different guided underground tours. Delve into the fascinating history of the site or participate in the Festival of Archaeology events from July 16th to 30th.

Colby Woodland Garden: Nature’s Playground

Colby Woodland Garden in Pembrokeshire provides an idyllic setting for families to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature. Embark on a bug safari, join an art workshop, or follow a self-led trail through the enchanting woodlands. Every Wednesday from July 26th to August 30th, archery sessions offer an exciting opportunity to channel your inner Robin Hood. Don’t forget to pick up the “50 things to do before you’re 11¾” leaflet, inspiring children to explore, discover, and create unforgettable memories. Unwind in the wildflower meadow, observing its abundant flora and fauna while enjoying a delightful picnic.

Stackpole: Adventure Awaits Every Step of the Way

Stackpole in Pembrokeshire guarantees a summer filled with playfulness. Participate in archery sessions every Wednesday from July 26th to August 30th at Stackpole Court. As dusk falls on July 27th and August 4th, embark on a captivating guided ranger walk to witness the rare resident lesser and greater horseshoe bats in their natural habitat (booking essential). Traverse the network of footpaths leading to Barafundle Bay, Stackpole Quay, Bosherston Lily Ponds, and Broad Haven South Beach. Experience the thrill of the new orienteering trail at Lodge Park woods, where maps can be obtained from the Visitor Reception.

Powis Castle and Garden: Sporting Extravaganza

Enjoy a summer brimming with traditional sports and games at Powis Castle and Garden in Welshpool. Gather your family and friends for friendly competitions on the Great Lawn, featuring hurdles, badminton, volleyball, football, and croquet. Celebrate the launch of the Festival of Archaeology on July 15th with a free day of exploration and creativity. Engage in live archaeological excavations, embark on historical tours, and indulge in hobby horse racing, storytelling, and more.

Llanerchaeron: A Summer of Play

Llanerchaeron in Ceredigion beckons families to take part in the Summer of Play. Wander through the woodlands, whiz around the trails on balance bikes, and enjoy games on the lawn. Let children delight in the water and sand pit, ensuring an extra set of clothes is on hand. Every Wednesday, join Forest School for woodland activities that inspire curiosity and a love for nature. Don’t miss a visit to the farm, where Llanwenog sheep, pigs, and Welsh cobs reside, and explore the captivating Geler Jones collection.

For more information about these exciting family days out and to plan your visit, please head to the National Trust Cymru website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wales/family-friendly

About National Trust Cymru

National Trust Cymru is a leading conservation charity dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural heritage of Wales. Through its commitment to providing engaging activities and events, National Trust Cymru invites families to discover and connect with the rich history and stunning landscapes of Wales. Become a National Trust member today and enjoy free access to these remarkable locations.

Crime

Swansea man dies weeks after release from troubled HMP Parc: Investigation launched

Published

6 hours ago

December 4, 2025

Tom Sinclair

A SWANSEA man has died just weeks after being released from HMP Parc, the Bridgend prison now at the centre of a national crisis over inmate deaths and post-release failures.

Darren Thomas, aged 52, died on 13 November 2025 — less than a month after leaving custody. The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman (PPO) has confirmed an independent investigation into his death, which is currently listed as “in progress”.

Born on 9 April 1973, Mr Thomas had been under post-release supervision following a period at HMP/YOI Parc, the G4S-run prison that recorded seventeen deaths in custody in 2024 — the highest in the UK.

His last known legal appearance was at Swansea Crown Court in October 2024, where he stood trial accused of making a threatening phone call and two counts of criminal damage. During the hearing, reported by The Pembrokeshire Herald at the time, the court heard he made threats during a heated call on 5 October 2023.

Mr Thomas denied the allegations but was found guilty on all counts. He was sentenced to a custodial term, which led to his imprisonment at HMP Parc.

Parc: A prison in breakdown

HMP Parc has faced sustained criticism throughout 2024 and 2025. A damning unannounced inspection in January found:

Severe self-harm incidents up 190%
Violence against staff up 109%
Synthetic drugs “easily accessible” across wings
Overcrowding at 108% capacity

In the first three months of 2024 alone, ten men died at Parc — part of a wider cluster of twenty PPO-investigated deaths since 2022. Six occurred within three weeks, all linked to synthetic drug use.

Leaked staff messages in 2025 exposed a culture of indifference, including one officer writing: “Let’s push him to go tomorrow so we can drop him.”

Six G4S employees have been arrested since 2023 in connection with alleged assaults and misconduct.

The danger after release

Deaths shortly after release from custody are a growing national concern. Ministry of Justice data shows 620 people died while under community supervision in 2024–2025, with 62 deaths occurring within 14 days of release.

Short sentences — common at Parc — leave little time for effective rehabilitation or release planning. Homelessness, loss of drug tolerance and untreated mental-health conditions create a high-risk environment for those newly released.

The PPO investigates all such deaths to determine whether prisons or probation failed in their duties. Reports often take 6–12 months and can lead to recommendations.

A system at breaking point

The crisis at Parc reflects wider failures across UK prisons and probation. A July 2025 House of Lords report described the service as “not fit for purpose”. More than 500 people die in custody annually, with campaigners warning that private prisons such as Parc prioritise cost-cutting over care.

The PPO investigation into the death of Darren Thomas continues.

Crime

Woman stabbed partner in Haverfordwest before handing herself in

Published

6 hours ago

December 4, 2025

Court Reporter

A WOMAN who stabbed her partner during a drug-fuelled episode walked straight into Haverfordwest Police Station and told officers what she had done, Swansea Crown Court has heard.

Amy Woolston, 22, of Dartmouth Street in Milford Haven, arrived at the station at around 8:00pm on June 13 and said: “I stabbed my ex-partner earlier… he’s alright and he let me walk off,” prosecutor Tom Scapens told the court.

The pair had taken acid together earlier in the day, and Woolston claimed she believed she could feel “stab marks in her back” before the incident.

Police find victim with four wounds

Officers went to the victim’s home to check on him. He was not there at first, but returned shortly afterwards. He appeared sober and told police: “Just a couple of things,” before pointing to injuries on his back.

He had three stab or puncture wounds to his back and another to his bicep.

The victim said that when he arrived home from the shop, Woolston was acting “a bit shifty”. After asking if she was alright, she grabbed something from the windowsill — described as either a knife or a shard of glass — and stabbed him.

He told officers he had “had worse from her before”, did not support a prosecution, and refused to go to hospital.

Defendant has long history of violence

Woolston pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding. The court heard she had amassed 20 previous convictions from 10 court appearances, including assaults, battery, and offences against emergency workers.

Defending, Dyfed Thomas said Woolston had longstanding mental health problems and had been off medication prescribed for paranoid schizophrenia at the time.
“She’s had a difficult upbringing,” he added, saying she was remorseful and now compliant with treatment.

Woolston was jailed for 12 months, but the court heard she has already served the equivalent time on remand and will be released imminently on a 12-month licence.

News

BBC apologises to Herald’s editor for inaccurate story

Published

7 hours ago

December 4, 2025

Staff Writer

THE BBC has issued a formal apology and amended a six-year-old article written by BBC Wales Business Correspondent Huw Thomas after its Executive Complaints Unit ruled that the original headline and wording gave an “incorrect impression” that Herald editor Tom Sinclair was personally liable for tens of thousands of pounds in debt.

The 2019 report, originally headlined “Herald newspaper editor Tom Sinclair has £70,000 debts”, has now been changed.

The ECU found: “The wording of the article and its headline could have led readers to form the incorrect impression that the debt was Mr Sinclair’s personal responsibility… In that respect the article failed to meet the BBC’s standards of due accuracy.”

Mr Sinclair said: “I’m grateful to the ECU for the apology and for correcting the personal-liability impression that caused real harm for six years. However, the article still links the debts to ‘the group which publishes The Herald’ when in fact they related to printing companies that were dissolved two years before the Herald was founded in 2013. I have asked the BBC to add that final clarification so the record is completely accurate.”

A formal apology and correction of this kind from the BBC is extremely rare, especially for a story more than six years old.