The new Centre (http://www.phenomics.org.uk/) is a Biotechnology and Biological Research Council (BBSRC) supported national facility and has been developed at a cost of £6.8m.

The research conducted at this new national centre will help to develop new plant and crop varieties to help tackle the global challenges of climate change, food security and replacing oil based products.

Located on the University’s Gogerddan campus, it was opened by BBSRC Chairman, Professor Sir Tom Blundell FRS at 12.00 p.m.

The new building is one of two significant capital investment developments that are being opened on the same day.

At 3.30 p.m. Welsh Government Education and Skills Minister Leighton Andrews opened new teaching and researcher facilities on the University’s Penglais campus.

The new Penglais facility represents an investment of £5.6m and houses the Bioinformatics and Spatial Modelling laboratories as well as offering a hub for undergraduate and postgraduate teaching.

Together the developments represent the culmination of a four year £25m capital investment programme made possible by financial support from the BBSRC, the Welsh Government and the European Union.

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As part of her role she will also provide direct cover for Tai Ceredigion’s nine Sheltered Schemes which are for tenants over 55, who wish to maintain an independent life but with support.

Eleri Jenkins, Director of Housing and Support at Tai Ceredigion said “Our Sheltered schemes offer independent living with peace of mind. This new role is vital in ensuring our tenants receive the necessary support in each scheme. We pride ourselves on offering a wide range of services to help tenants live on their own and offer support for those who need it. We welcome Emma to the team and wish her well in her new role.”

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Over the past two years, six cases of suspected deforestation involving farmers have been investigated.
The trend has prompted a call for farmers to steer clear of trouble by checking with Forestry Commission Wales that any plans to remove trees do not fall foul of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Forestry Regulations.

The Regulations set limits on the cumulative amount of land that can be cleared of trees over a five-year period and are in addition to the rules laid out in the Forestry Act.

Breaching the Act or the EIA Regulations can lead to prosecution and a hefty fine, along with an order forcing the landowner to restore the land with more trees.

It could also result in a cross compliance penalty in a landowner’s Single Payment Scheme, which sets environmental and other standards that farmers must adhere to in order to receive European agricultural subsidies.

Richard Siddons, Forestry Commission Wales Head of Forest Services Wales, said, “In the most recent case in south Wales, the farmer was unaware of the requirements of both the Forestry Act and the EIA Forestry Regulations.

“We want to make landowners and farmers aware of the legislation surrounding tree felling and deforestation operations, plus the need to obtain a felling licence and/or a screening decision from us before starting any work.

“The Welsh Government’s Woodlands for Wales strategy recognises the value of trees in rural and semi-urban locations and we want to ensure that the environmental benefits of trees and the correct administration processes are taken into account.”

The EIA Regulations allow for some deforestation – so long as all other necessary approvals are in place – but set a maximum threshold on any gradual felling in an area over a five-year period.

Deforestation thresholds are 0.5 hectare where any part of the land is in a National Park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and one hectare elsewhere.

“Where either of these thresholds are likely to be exceeded, then the landowner should contact Forestry Commission Wales for a decision on whether it’s safe to proceed,” said Richard.

“Failure to do so could constitute a breach of Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition requirements which, if proven, could result in severe financial repercussions.”

The level of a Single Payment Scheme penalty is determined by the “extent, intent, severity and permanence” of a breach, and failure to rectify a known breach or repetition of breaches can significantly increase the penalty.

The Regulations do not apply to activities requiring planning permission, which are governed by the Town and Country Planning Act.

Kathleen Carroll, Wildlife Advisor in the Welsh Government Sustainability and Environmental Evidence Division, said, “If you are unsure as to whether a particular activity you are planning falls within either the uncultivated land and semi-natural areas EIA Agricultural Regulations or the EIA Forestry Regulations, then please contact your nearest Divisional Office to obtain a screening decision.”

Advice can also be gained from Forestry Commission Wales by calling the Grants and Regulations team on 0300 068 0300 and asking for your local Regulatory Woodland Officer, or visit the Forestry Commission Wales website at http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/infd-6j2jjn (English) or http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/INFD-6J2MG2 (Welsh).

Photograph: Illegally felled trees next to a field of grazing sheep. Farmers are being urged to check before cutting down trees or risk severe penalties

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Bishop John Davies is urging all churches in Wales to make an extra effort to highlight the work of the charity during Christian Aid week which started last Sunday (May 13).

Bishop John, who is chair of the Christian Aid Wales Committee and a member of the Board of Trustees of Christian Aid, said, “Almost everyone will find a little red Christian Aid envelope pushed through their door this week and will perhaps hunt around for a bit of loose change to put in it. Hopefully, many will contribute more generously! We rely on our volunteer parishioners to do that groundwork, year on year, and they do it because they recognise that Christian Aid Week is incredibly valuable as an act of witness and engagement at local level. It goes to the heart of our faith, and puts the charity’s work into the public eye.

“But, vital though Christian Aid Week is in raising the profile, Christian Aid itself is about a great deal more than the annual street collection and support events. It is an international charity which works in scores of places across the world, often in partnership with other organisations. It not only provides direct help to those in need but it also campaigns vigorously against poverty, tax avoidance, and injustice and on environmental issues. It speaks with a strong and respected voice on behalf of the poor and marginalised, and has an honoured place at the table where issues of poverty and injustice are addressed.

“As such, Christian Aid demonstrates practical loyalty to Christ and the Gospel message. So don’t apologise for the ‘Christian’ in Christian Aid – it’s Christian witness at its practical best.”

Last month the Governing Body of the Church in Wales voted to support the continuing work of Christian Aid. The charity’s director Loretta Minghella was invited to the meeting to talk about its work. She also commended the work of the Church in Wales in Gaza through funding of the Mobile Dental Clinic:  “This is the love of Jesus Christ in action — we are proud to be part of it.”

Photograph: Christian Aid director, Loretta Minghella, at the Governing Body meeting

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The calls came following the publication of a Welsh Government report which revealed plans to reduce the number of hospitals providing 24/7 consultant-led accident and emergency services in Wales.

The Welsh NHS is currently facing record-breaking cuts and attendances at A&E departments across North Wales have been rising.

The Clwyd West AM challenged the First Minister over the future of services at Glan Clwyd Hospital during an exchange in the Senedd this week. No assurances were provided.

Speaking after the exchange, Darren said:

‘The Welsh Labour Government’s plans to downgrade emergency care at some hospitals are alarming and I’m very concerned that the First Minister failed to provide me with any assurances about A&E services at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd.

‘The NHS should provide local services for local people and no-one should be forced to travel further for life-saving emergency care.

‘Glan Clwyd has one of the busiest A&E departments in North Wales, providing care to tens of thousands each year. It would be devastating if services there were to be downgraded.’

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The posts, which have been funded by Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol are part of their national programme to increase the amount of academic staff who teach through the medium of Welsh.

Swansea University wish to appoint applicants to posts in the following fields; law, digital media, zoology, social work and health studies. They will be expected to contribute to Welsh University life through research work, collaborate with other departments and institutions and promote the Welsh language within their specialised fields.

Swansea University have also succeeded in securing two Research Scholarships thanks to Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol in both Engineering and Health and Ethics. The successful applicants will be funded for up to a period of five years.

Four lecturers have already been appointed at Swansea University this year through Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol’s Academic Staffing Scheme in Modern Languages, Geography and History.

Swansea University’s Vice Chancellor, Richard B Davies said: ‘‘This is excellent news for Swansea University and for Welsh speaking students.  I shall look forward to welcoming the successful applicants to Swansea University in due course. Swansea University’s Welsh language provision has come a long way over the past few years and these appointments will ensure that the provision will continue to grow from strength to strength, accross a range of academic disciplines.’’

Dr Ioan Matthews, Chief Exectuive of the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol said: ‘‘Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol will fund 100 academic posts through our Academic Staffing Scheme between 2011/12 and 2015/16. Appointing five new academic staff at Swansea University is part of Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol’s academic strategy to plan Welsh medium provision for the future. These appointments as well as the PhD scholarships in fields like Engineering, will give Welsh language provision at Swansea University a significant boost, and I look forward to seeing further increase in provision and new opportunities for students to study through the medium of Welsh.”

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Do you have an existing link to Aberystwyth University (as a student / member of staff / alumni) or does the business have the potential to develop links and be part of the growing creative community at Aberystwyth Arts Centre?

Returning for the fourth year, this exciting competition offers a year’s rent free studio space from September 2012, in one of the Award winning Creative Units at Aberystwyth Arts Centre.

“The ‘Year in a Creative Unit’ competition is open to business or community enterprise ideas based on any of the Creative Industries including film, tv, new media, performing arts, visual arts, applied arts and literature”  explains Tony Orme, Enterprise Manager at Aberystwyth University.

The winner will benefit from modern and flexible studio space in one of the sixteen Creative Units at Aberystwyth Arts Centre, which is Wales’ largest arts centre and recognised as a ‘national flagship for the Arts’.

Alan Hewson, Director of Aberystwyth Arts Centre, said: “The competition offers an exciting opportunity for a new company to become part of the creative community at the Arts Centre and to work with the other resident arts businesses and artists in our award winning Creative Units.”

Applications will be reviewed by a panel and those shortlisted will be invited to pitch their business idea in a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style forum.
Previous winners of the ‘Year in a Unit’ competition are Ruth Emily Davey of Ruth Emily Davey Shoes, Lisa Young of Lisa Young Ceramics and Ric Lloyd of Cleftec Digital.

Reflecting on winning the 2011 competition, Ruth Emily Davey, explained, “The ‘year in a creative unit’ has provided a unique opportunity for me to spread my wings with my business amongst a wonderful community of artists within the supportive, vibrant and contemporary arts scene of Aberystwyth Art Centre”.

For full details of the competition, visit: www.aber.ac.uk/year-in-a-unit
Alternatively, contact Tony Orme, Enterprise Manager, Aberystwyth University awo@aber.ac.uk / 01970 622203.

The deadline for the submission of applications is 17.00 Friday 29th June 2012.

Working in partnership with Aberystwyth Arts Centre, the competition is coordinated by Commercialisation and Consultancy Services (CCS) at Aberystwyth University.

Photograph: Mr Alan Hewson, Director, Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Ruth Emily Davey of Ruth Emily Davey Shoes (2011 Competition Winner) and Mr Tony Orme, Enterprise Manager at Aberystwyth University’s Commercialisation and Consultancy Services

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The banjo plucking maestros from Monmouthshire will now join Brit Award winner Emeli Sande, You Me at Six and Cardiff band Kids in Glass Houses to perform at the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay Special City Celebration, presented by Coca-Cola, in Cooper’s Field Cardiff on May 25th. Cardiff dance group Rubicon Dance and 80 strong group who will also take part in the relay event as part of celebrating the community.

Liam Collins, Rusty Shackle’s singer said “We’re buzzing this morning, we don’t normally win things, we usually lose and moan. Now we have nothing to moan about!”

The band will also receive airplay on Nation Radio and all finalists will receive studio recording time at the Machinerooms recording studio in Cardiff.

In third place were anarchic Cardiff youngsters Disciple whose big rock sound belied their age. Also in the final were the terrific rapper and showman Dretonio, melodic, 60s influenced The Knox who won the youth final on Monday and Breakdown Face whose extraordinary performance in Monday’s youth final has already become legendary.

Over a hundred entries were received and the standard of entry was even higher than last years amazing debut competition.

The judges included Ben Evans and Owen Davies from Nation Radio, Dave Owens from the South Wales Echo, Est Wilkinson, former manager of Coldplay, Heather Brown of Cardiff Council and John Rostron from the Swn Festival.

The judges said “It was fantastic to see such a high standard of acts representative of Cardiff’s flourishing music scene ahead of next years Womex festival”

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National directors for Coca-Cola from several European countries were at The Gallery restaurant in the city’s Quadrant Shopping Centre for a special meeting.

Those present included Hubert Patricot, President of Coca-Cola Enterprise European Group, as well as the soft drinks giant’s top men in France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Sweden who flew into the country for the day.

They chose Swansea because Coca-Cola are one of the headline sponsors of the Olympic Games and the Olympic Torch is visiting Swansea on May 26.

Clif Roberson, who runs The Gallery and Trenchers in the Quadrant Centre, said: “It came out of the blue but they came here because we are retailers for Coca-Cola and they were visiting a number of their outlets in the area.

“They’ve flown in specially to visit the area and it’s a good endorsement for us. It’s our first European summit meeting and hopefully we’ll host a few more in future.

“We’re just delighted they chose us to hold their meeting so we reserved a special section for them and we just hope they enjoyed what we’re able to provide.

“We do a nice line in home-baked cakes and so I’m sure they would have been impressed with them.

“The Quadrant is at the heart of Swansea and for one afternoon ar least it has been the corporate centre of Europe for Coca-Cola and that certainly puts us and the city on the map.”

Jon Davies, Regional Sales Manager for Coca-Cola for Wales and the West and a Swansea man himself, said: “It is very much off the cuff but we’ve had seven or eight European directors coming to Swansea at 24 hours notice.

“We’ve been taking them to see our independent retailers in the area, including Trenchers and The Gallery, and then we’ve returned to hold an informal meeting here.”

Clif’s wife, Ruth,, a co-director of Trenchers and The Gallery, looked after the Coke chiefs during their stay and she said: “It was a pleasure to have them here. We have a good partnership with Coca-Cola.

“I’ve always thought this was a good place to hold meetings because it’s so central but I must admit I’ve always thought of it being central in terms of Swansea rather than to Europe.

“We do have our chare of celebrities with some of the local footballers and international rugby players coming in and we’ve had showbiz stars in as well but to have Coca-Cola’s top men was definitely a first.”

Photograph: Hubert Patricot, centre left, President of Coca-Cola Enterprise European Group and Matthew Preece, Coke’s Swansea Boost Zone Representative, with Clif and Ruth Roberson, of Trenchers Café in the Quadrant Centre

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Estyn has rated the school’s teaching standards, care, support and guidance and pupil’s well – being as “Good” and says the valuable church links contribute to successful spiritual and moral standards.

Across the school they found, ” the school provides a good range of learning experiences, both within and out of school which engage most pupils’ interests well. All pupils have access to a broad and balanced curriculum….the Foundation Phase has been very successfully implemented.”

The school has been through a period of transition and change which is reflected in the content of the report, but it shows there is a caring ethos throughout the school and that all staff are committed to providing pupils with the best opportunities for learning.

Colin Roberts, Associate Headteacher said: “Although the school has been through a difficult period there is now stability, a sense of direction and purpose which is successfully and positively shared by all members of staff, governors, parents and pupils.

“The Governing Body,  ably led by the new Chair,  is clear of its roles and responsibilities and we’re delighted that the quality of teaching throughout the school is good and the staff are valued and respected for their commitment and professionalism.”

The recent improvements have yet to have a sustained input of improving Key Stage results and overall the Estyn Report gave the school an “Adequate” rating.  That means the school’s strengths outweigh the areas for improvement.  Estyn also deemed the prospects for improvement to be “Adequate”.

Mr Roberts added: “The inspection is fair and reflects the incredible amount of work put in by the school and we are especially pleased that the children were praised throughout the report.”

The Ven Shirley Griffiths, Chair of Governors said: “The positive comments in the report underline the tremendous amount of hard work undertaken by all staff and governors involved with Ysgol Dyffryn Iâl. The Estyn report has recognised the recent improvements in the school and we look forward to building on these and to providing all our pupils with an excellent education”.

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The current performance of Ysgol Gynradd Llandrillo is good with adequate prospects for improvement.

The Inspection states:  “In the Foundation Phase, pupils are making good progress in their literacy skills. Pupils’ oral language is good and they discuss confidently and use clear vocabulary and syntax when communicating with one another and with adults.

In Key Stage 2 the report stated: “By the end of key stage 2, most pupils are making good progress in their literacy skills in both languages.

Across the school they found that:” The school promotes the Welsh language effectively and models good language when communicating with pupils. This has a positive effect on pupils’ literacy standards. There is good provision for promoting awareness of Welsh culture and heritage and this reflects part of the school’s agreed vision.

Acting headteacher, Teleri Llwyd-Jones, said: “We are particularly pleased that the inspection found that pupils’ standards of wellbeing are a strength in the school and the relationship between pupils and staff across the school is a special one and has a positive influence on the classroom ethos and pupils’ achievement.

“I am very grateful to all the staff of the school who show their care to the children and dedication to the school daily. Not only are the teaching standards good but the Inspectors made reference to the teaching assistants being a very effective part of the teaching team and have a positive influence on learning and teaching.”

“Our standards are good and we will now work on the recommendations made by ESTYN to make them even better!”

The Inspection report said” Since the appointment of the acting Headteacher in September 2010, a clear vision has been created for the school and there is an obvious focus on getting pupils to achieve their potential. As a result of the leadership, the school’s standards have risen over the last two years. They now perform alongside the best in the family and this is considerably higher than expected based on the school’s level of challenge.”

Bryn Roberts, Chairman of Governors said, “I would like to congratulate everyone involved in the inspection for their success and commitment to Ysgol Gynradd Llandrillo. Even with a dark cloud above us the staff  have shown their dedication. The report is positive and shows that we have good standards and gives us recommendations to move the school forward.”

“We will be making a post Inspection Action Plan to tackle issues raised in the report, so when Estyn come back next year we will show them the positive progress that has been made.”

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Ministry and Calling Sunday focuses on people thinking about becoming or training to be priests in the Church in Wales. The day is part of a wider drive by the church to seek out its next generation of leaders.

The services will have prayers and readings themed around ministry and people will be invited to think about whether they, or anyone they know, may have a vocation to be a priest.

The Bishop of St Asaph, Gregory Cameron, who leads the Church’s vocations strategy called Here I Am, Send Me, will be at a service at St Margaret’s Church, Wrexham (starts 9.30am).

He said, “Every human being finds fullness of life in doing what God has made that person to do.  Ministry and Calling Sunday seeks to put the question to everyone ‘What did God make you to achieve in life?’  In particular, the Church wants to discover those whose gifts and calling are to lead the Church in the future – and that leadership could come from the most surprising directions, so we want to cast the net as widely as possible.”

People can find out more about vocation and serving the church online at the Church’s Vocation Wales website. It includes video clips of people describing times in their lives when they valued the ministry of a priest and new leaflets which can be downloaded, about all aspects of ministry.

The website address is:  www.vocationwales.org.uk

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Coleg Harlech WEA’s Open Minds project is short-listed in the Inclusive Practice Category of the Gwobrau Colegau Cymru 2012 (Colleges Wales Awards 2012).

According to Project Manager Sarah O’Connell Jones, the scheme is proving a big hit with learners across North Wales.

She said: “Coleg Harlech WEA has a well established history of working with learners who are socially excluded, disenfranchised or who are simply classed as hard to reach.

“As an organisation we have always tried to be welcoming and supportive to learners who face barriers to achieving their potential.

“However, it was recognised there were additional barriers to learning for individuals with mental illness and or, poor mental health.

“Coleg Harlech WEA recognised a clear strategy was needed to address this issue and secured a three year Big Lottery Fund grant for the Open Minds Project.”

Sarah added: “The Project has been running now for almost three years and has been incredibly successful and we are delighted to have been short-listed for the Gwobrau ColegauCymru 2012 award in the Inclusive Practice Category.

“I am really proud of our achievements which are due to the commitment of our tutors and partner agencies.

“Essentially we work with learners who are suffering from mental health issues or who are at a high risk of developing mental health issues.

“We work with both in and out patients delivering courses on subjects as diverse as gardening, digital photography, computers and IT and the arts.”

The Open Minds project has been working with learners at Tan Y Castell, a Mental Health Rehabilitation Unit in Ruthin.

Sarah said: “Tan y Castell had a piece of land alongside the Unit and learners, working alongside a committed tutor, developed the ground and are growing flowers and vegetables.

“This has been a really successful project and has helped us reach learners who are hard to reach. However, we have been astounded by what has been achieved.”.”

The Open Minds Project is also delivering computer and IT courses, as well as gardening and the arts to in-patient students at the Ablett Unit of Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, Bodelwyddan, gardening courses to in-patients of the Hergest Unit at Ysbyty Gwynedd, Bangor and digital photography courses to in-patients of Ysbyty Bryn Y Neuadd, Llanfairfechan.

In addition to in-patients, the Open Minds Project is working with Mental Health working with mental health resource centres across North Wales.

Other agencies are also supported such as, Next Steps Flintshire, Hafal Wrexham and housing organisations such as Clwyd Alyn Housing Association and North Wales Housing.

Sarah said: “The Open Minds team are knowledgeable about mental health issues and are skilled in facilitating learning opportunities within community settings.

“It was so important and a real priority for the Open Minds Project that all our tutors had an empathy and understanding when it comes to mental health issues.”

Trefor Fȏn Owen, the Principal of Coleg Harlech WEA, is delighted that the Open Minds project is being recognised.
He said: “There are so many benefits for our learners being able to access flexible learning in an appropriate setting with an understanding tutor. Learners can have fun while being able to participate in a positive learning experience.

“Learners also have improved self confidence and socialising skills, increased skills levels and an increased interest in learning opportunities.

“We will find out if we have been successful at the Gwobrau Colegau Cymru 2012 awards ceremony which is, this year, being held at Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

“We have our fingers crossed but have every faith in the Open Minds Project which we feel has really increased awareness of mental health issues within Coleg Harlech WEA and in the wider community.”

Photograph: Sarah O’connell Jones with Parevi Christian (Administrator), Sophi Owen (project Evaluator and Sian Hanley (development worker) at Coleg Harlech Open Minds Project which has been nominated for an award

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Festival organisers want to leave a positive economic footprint from the festival and working with the local community is part of the Kaya Festival philosophy. “Coleg Menai has been enormously supportive; we are determined to develop the talents of local young people,” said Festival Director Dece Gambe.

Catering and Hospitality students are working with the Kaya backstage hospitality team, providing catering for artists and VIPs. Creative Arts students will provide an outside broadcast team to record the event and tell stories from the festival.

“The benefits of gaining real-life work experiences are invaluable; challenging placements are interesting and improve skills. They also help when applying for jobs and entering the world of work,” said Aled Jones-Griffith, Coleg Menai Faculty Director.

Local young people have their own ‘Do Youth Day’ within the main festival on Saturday, with a PA from MC star Tinchy Stryder , creative workshops and the British DJ&MC Academy encouraging local talent. Coleg Menai, Careers Wales and local training providers will offer apprenticeships, mentoring and training opportunities.

The Festival has backing from the Welsh Government, Gwynedd Council and the Arts Council of Wales, which recognise the economic benefit of fostering the creative industry in Wales. The inaugural event has received £50k support from the Welsh Government.

Sian Tomos, Director, Enterprise and Regeneration, Arts Council of Wales said: “The Arts Council of Wales has been struck by Kaya Festival’s commitment to promoting local creative skills and job opportunities through linking local organisations with top level international artists. With the Creative Sector being one of the driving forces of economic growth at the moment, it’s vital that we inspire and encourage our communities through providing high quality opportunities to engage with it. Kaya Festival offers that in addition to bringing a really high quality artistic festival to Bangor for everyone to enjoy in its own right.”

The festival will appeal to locals and ‘world music’ fans from outside the area looking to have a great festival experience. The Kaya Festival philosophy is to engage with local young people, broadening their skills and experience.

“Big things start from small beginnings and our smaller capacity family festival will offer a uniquely intimate music experience and provide big economic benefits to the area,” said Dece.

Photograph: Dece Gambe, Festival Director, The Venus Bushfires musician, Hugh Edwin Jones, Gwynedd Council and students from Coleg Menai

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The comments follow an announcement by Huw Lewis, Minister for Housing, Regeneration and Heritage which detailed extra investment in the ‘Houses to Homes’ scheme and how Welsh Government is to further assist Local Authorities to bring more empty homes into use as social housing, for private rent or sale.

The Houses into Homes scheme is one of a number of routes Local Authorities can seek to increase housing supply by bringing empty homes into use.  Other measures being looked at include varying rates of council tax in relation to second homes and empty properties, alongside more severe approaches such as enforced sales, empty dwelling management orders and compulsory purchase orders.

Official figures for 2010-11 empty private sector properties at 21,970.  Action by Local Authorities in partnership with the Welsh Government brought nearly 1000 of these back into use last year alone. The Welsh Government are looking to increase this number using schemes such as ‘Housing to Homes’.

Commenting, Lesley Griffiths AM said:

“I am pleased to see the Welsh Labour Government leading the way with this policy.

“Long-term empty properties cause a social and environmental blight on communities, and prevent families from finding a home. This extra £5million will help to tackle this.

“The Welsh Government is rightly taking strong yet creative action on this issue. Currently thousands of properties lie unused and thousands of families require homes. Standing by and allowing this to continue would be simply wrong.

“However, the aim is not to punish landlords who feel unable to renovate properties, but to help them find the resources to do so.  The ‘ House to Homes’ scheme provides this cheaply and easily.”

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Jayne Thomas, who runs the Julian Graves store in Swansea’s busy Quadrant Shopping Centre, is through to the last six in next week’s final of the Julian Graves Store Manager of the Year.

Last year’s winner received a trip to New York to visit a number of Julian Graves suppliers and this year Jayne is hoping the prize is the same, as her son, Luke, lives and works in the Big Apple.

She said: “I am really pleased to be named in the top six especially as I am the only manager from Wales left in the competition. It’s a really tough competition and you have to work hard and know your stuff to have any chance.

“Initially all managers went through a series of tests including exams covering employment law to in-depth questions concerning our products as well as giving a presentation.”

Ian Kirkpatrick, Manager of the Quadrant Shopping Centre, said: “It’s no surprise to me that Jayne is through to the final as she is such a great manager for the store and a brilliant ambassador for Julian Graves and for the Quadrant Centre.

“She really knows her stuff too and is a delightful person and Julian Graves is an important part of the variety of retail offer that we have here in the Quadrant – we’ll all be backing her for the title.”

Now Jayne says she is studying hard ahead of the final which will be held at Crewe Hall, near Nuneaton, and hopes the top prize will again be a trip to New York.

She said: “Luke’s wife is half American, half British, and they have lived in New York for some time. Luke is actually in banking, although I tend to tell people he’s a milkman due to the current reputation bankers seem to have!

“Tamsin, my daughter-in-law, works with the British Consul. My husband, Nigel, and I do get out to see them along with our daughter Rebecca, who still lives in Swansea. However, if I win it’s a great chance to go and spend a little bit of time with them.”

And Jayne says she is a big fan of Julian Graves’ shops even though she admits her husband does most of the cooking.

She said: “Our products are really, really good, there’s no doubt about that. Nigel loves a lot of the curry spices, chillies and dried herbs we sell and I have to admit I do like a lot of our nut products.

“There are actually 202 Julian Graves stores nationwide so to reach the last six in the manager of the year competition is something I’m really proud of.

“However, I have to say I work with a marvellous team at our Quadrant shop. It might be a small team, there are just five of including myself, but we do have a great relationship.”

Jayne added: “And I have to say we have so many regular customers and the Quadrant is such a fabulous shopping centre. We have customers that pop in for a chat and even bring in things like their holiday snaps to show us. It really is that sort of place.

“I have been the shop manager at our Quadrant store for more than three years now and I can’t see me moving any time soon. The Quadrant is just such a lovely environment.

“It is always spotlessly clean, they are always out removing chewing gum and polishing the place up and everyone is so friendly.

“And at a time when you see on the news how so many shopping centres and high streets are struggling in the economic downturn you have to say Swansea appears to be bucking the trend. It’s such a vibrant place and we are certainly nice and busy.”

She added: “I’ve just got to keep revising and make sure I know my stuff before the final. I really want that trip to New York if it’s announced that’s what this year’s first prize is to be.”

Photograph: Jayne Thomas, Manager of the Julian Graves store in Swansea’s Quadrant Centre

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The Wales midfielder has been named as an ambassador for the new High 5 Awards being launched by Swansea Council last week.

The awards will highlight the positive actions and amazing achievements of children and teenagers in Swansea and have been sponsored by Gower College Swansea.

Allen, who has had an outstanding debut season in the Premier League, is thrilled to be involved in the awards, having overcome the odds to become one of the country’s leading young footballers.

Despite being told as a schoolboy that he was too small to be a footballer, Allen starred for Swansea City’s youth team before signing as a professional footballer at the age of 17.

He said: “I would not be where I am now if it wasn’t for the belief and support people had for me when I was a young player. I hope that the award winners will inspire young people to believe in themselves and work hard to follow their dreams. I hope they will also remind everyone that we should be proud of the young people in our communities.”

The idea for High 5 came out of Swansea Council’s consultation with young people over recognising the positive contribution they make and to counteract the negative publicity young people get nationwide.

Jack Straw, Chief Executive of Swansea Council, said: “Whether it’s through personal achievement, working for others or caring for someone, there are inspirational young people in all our communities who too often go unnoticed. Their amazing achievements are something we should be recognising and be proud of. I’d like to see these awards build young people’s self-confidence and send a clear message everyone can achieve their goal.”

Nick Bennett, Principal of Gower College Swansea, said: “It’s extremely important that young people are recognised and rewarded for the good work they carry out within their communities. We are very proud to sponsor the brand new High 5 Awards scheme and join in the celebration of these inspirational individuals.”

Nominations are now open for entries into the High 5 Awards. There are two age groups -  those aged up to 13 and 14 to 19-year-olds. Nominations can be received in five categories – Achiever, Caring, Community, Enterprise and Environment.

Any individual, organisation or school can nominate a young person for an award as along as the young person nominated is aged 19 and under and is either a resident or educated within the boundary of Swansea.

Each winner will receive a £50 prize, a tailor-made prize involving a personal activity or opportunity and they will be invited to the celebration awards evening along with their nominator and two guests.

Go to www.swansea.gov.uk/High5 to download or fill in a form or pick one up in the Civic Centre, Swansea, and return it to High 5 Awards, Canoldre Centre, Jockey Street, Swansea SA1 1NS. Further details area available on the website or e-mail queries to High5Awards@swansea.gov.uk

The closing date for all submissions is August  10, 2012.

The High 5 Awards are being organised by Swansea Council with sponsorship from Gower College Swansea and supported and kindly Swansea Sound and The Wave, Swansea City F.C and the Rotary Club.

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Gareth Jones has been short-listed for Young Director of the Year for North Wales in the Institute of Directors Wales Awards and also nominated in the Renewable Energy Association Awards for the UK as Installer of the Year.

His Carbon Zero UK company have quadrupled their turnover in the past 12 months and found renewable energy solutions for a range of clients from a top DJ to a university.

And Gareth, 30, from Llandudno, one of North Wales’s brightest young businessmen, said: “I’m absolutely delighted. You’re always glad to be up for an award, especially when it’s someone else who has nominated you, but to be up for two is extra special.

“In the case of the Renewable Energy Association awards it’s nice to know that we have been nominated by our customers because that means they have been really pleased with what we have done for them.”

His St Asaph-based company employs ten full-time staff and up to 30 sub-contractors across North Wales and the North West.

They specialise in a complete range of renewable energy solutions including solar and wind power, air and ground-source heating, rainwater harvesting, biomass boilers, insulation and rainwater harvesting.

The company topped the £1 million turnover mark in the 2011-2012 financial year and they have fitted solar panels at Glyndwr University in Wrexham and Calderstones Hospital near Clitheroe as well as a biomass boiler for Radio Two DJ Mark Radcliffe and rainwater harvesting for a community centre in Preston.

Gareth was also recently appointed vice-chairman and chairman-elect of the Federation of Master Builders in Wales, the first ever from North Wales, and last year he was voted Business Person of the Year at the inaugural Free2Network Awards.

He launched Carbon Zero UK in 2009 and he said: “We’re delighted to be nominated for these awards. Renewable energy is a very exciting field to be in with new developments almost every day.

“We look to provide a whole range of renewable energy solutions, including solar power, wind turbines, air and ground-source heating, biomass and rainwater harvesting.

“It’s a sector where things are moving so fast and you need to be able to provide a range of solutions. Solar power might be right for one person or one business but it might not be the best option for someone else.

“Our advantage is that we can provide the solution that’s best for the client rather than trying to fit solar because that’s what we do.

“If solar isn’t the best option we can come up with a solution that is and swe have the expertise to install that as well.”

Gareth Jones is no stranger to awards having been named by Wales Business Insider magazine as one of its top 25 rising stars in 2009 and last year he was the first ever winner of the Business Person of the Year at the inaugural Free2Network Awards and was runner-up in the Daily Post Achievement Wales Awards for Business Person of the Year.

He said: “The renewables sector is just taking off so much, solar power, air and ground source heating, small scale wind turbines, rainwater harvesting and biomass boilers.

“There are government incentives for solar and for heating and by 2020 every new build will have to be self-sustaining which is very exciting and means a whole new approach to building.”

Photograph: Gareth Jones, Managing Director of renewable energy experts Carbon Zero UK

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An additional 14 thousand were added to lists in March, bringing the total number of patients referred for treatment – but waiting for a hospital appointment – to 390,228.That figure stood at 376,786 in February.

When Carwyn Jones became First Minister at the end of 2009, 227,000 people were waiting for the start of their treatment. Today’s figures for March 2012 show a rise of over 70 per cent.

There has been a significant drop in the number of orthopaedics patients on waiting lists, following the health minister’s promise to ‘all but eliminate the problem’.

Despite this, 356 people had still been waiting over 36 weeks at the end of March – 186 of them within Cardiff and Vale health board.

Shadow Minister for Health Darren Millar AM said:

“The first minister’s reign over our NHS has seen a huge rise in the size of waiting lists, which currently shows no sign of decline.

“Thousands of people are still waiting far too long and widely varying delays in all specialities must be dealt with.

“How long you wait for treatment remains entirely dependent upon where you live. While enormous orthopaedics delays have been successfully tackled in most areas for example, they continue to be a problem at Cardiff and Vale.

“Despite the hard work of frontline staff our health boards are treading water financially. Labour’s record-breaking cuts are putting an immense strain on hospitals and the resulting problems are only set to get worse.

“I urge the first minister to take control of his problem and invest in our NHS.”

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The event focused on encouraging respect within schools and communities and celebrated the work going on in Flintshire in line with the Welsh Government’s Anti-bullying guidance ‘Respecting Others’.

Respect is a core value at Elfed High School, and students worked with other pupils in the Buckley Mynydd Isa Consortium of Schools on a leaflet to make sure pupils know bullying is not acceptable.

Rosemary Jones, Head of Elfed High School said –

“It was a pleasure to welcome Respectfest to Elfed High School. The students who took part shared an important message about building positive relationships and avoiding conflicts. Congratulations to all who were involved in this event.”

The Flintshire Youth Forum, pupils from Elfed High School, Connah’s Quay High and Cornist Park Juniors facilitated the event and played key roles to make sure that the children and young people attending got the most out of the day.

Chris Ablett from the Flintshire Youth Forum said -

“It was brilliant to see so many young people supporting the issue of respect. Everyone got involved and applied themselves with infectious enthusiasm. This was an event where individuality and kindness were brought into focus and celebrated. Respectfest ‘13 is one to look out for!”

The delegates had an opportunity to share their thoughts on bullying and respect in two workshops. The Flintshire Youth Forum (FYF) ran a workshop using Theatre Forum to explore issues around respect and being an individual. Another workshop focused on staying safe on the internet, and all of the information will be used by the Flintshire & Wrexham Local Safeguarding Children’s Board (FWLSCB).

Jill Gilliam, FWLSCB Business Manager, said -

“I was very pleased to be invited to represent the Flintshire and Wrexham Local Safeguarding Children Board (FWLSCB) at the Flintshire Respectfest. It provided a great opportunity to raise awareness of the FWLSCB among professionals and children and young people and to obtain their views on staying safe on-line – the theme of this year’s FWLSCB annual conference. The young people at the event shared some great ideas with us which will be considered by our Junior LSCB in the future”.

Over 130 people attended across the day. Representatives from the Local Authority also offered their support on the day and local services had stands to help children, young people and the staff who support them become more aware of sources of support available if any of the issues particularly affect any one attending.

Ian Budd, Director of Lifelong Learning at Flintshire County Council said –

“It was great to see so many young people coming together to share their ideas on keeping safe and respecting others.”

The event has been kindly supported by The Children & Young People’s Partnership, Elfed High School, the Flintshire Youth Forum, the Respecting Others Multi-agency Steering Group and the Flintshire Youth Bank.

Alongside this event, multi-agency groups have been working to produce a toolkit of resources to support those who work with children and young people. The toolkit includes guidance on setting up a ‘Respecting Others’ policy in their setting, workshops on how to explore respect with children and young people and advice for parents if bullying enters their child’s life.

If you would like to find out more about the Respecting Others Project in Flintshire, please visit www.youngflintshire.co.uk/en/about/respecting-others

Photograph: left to right: Kezia (FYF), Chris(FYF), Jill Gilliam (FWLSCB Business Manager), Ali Thomas (Flintshire Youth Service), Brigitte (FYF), Becky (FYF), Rachel (Connah’s Quay High School), Lauren (FYF), Lori (Connah’s Quay High School), Hannah (FYF).

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Dr Barry Morgan was elected by members of the Standing Committee and will be the first Primate of the Anglican Communion to have been invited to serve on the Crown Nominations Commission.

They had been asked to nominate one Primate to represent the Anglican Communion on the Commission and their chosen Primates were grouped according to the five regions of the Communion. The Standing Committee then voted by single transferable vote—the method agreed by the Anglican Consultative Council for all its elections—and the name of the Archbishop of Wales emerged.

The vote took place by email and was overseen by the Chair and Vice Chair of the Standing Committee with advice from its legal advisor.

Dr Morgan said, “It’s an honour to have been elected by the Standing Committee and I look forward to representing their interest in the appointment of the next Archbishop of Canterbury.”

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For the next three weeks, the team will be on board the BUS in Denbigh and asking people to take part in a survey.

The survey will be seeking the views of our tenants, asking whether they are satisfied with the services provided by Denbighshire and asking how we can improve our performance. Information on all housing services will also be available.

The information given for the survey will be treated in the strictest confidence, and the feedback collected will help to improve our services to everyone in the community, ensuring equality and fairness of access to housing services.

Peter McHugh, Denbighshire’s Head of Housing Services, said: “We are committed to getting closer to the community and working in partnership with our tenants to provide excellent housing services.

“In addition, we hope our tenants will join in with opportunities to be part of our tenant scrutiny and tenant participation groups.”

The survey will begin in Denbigh and we will be moving to other areas throughout Denbighshire in the coming months with surveys in the Rhyl area during May and June.

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Becoming a British citizen is a significant event and is celebrated in a meaningful way.  Since January 2004, all adults wishing to become British citizens in the United Kingdom must demonstrate a basic knowledge of the English language and the British way of life and tradition and they must also attend a citizenship ceremony within 90 days of citizenship being granted.  Here they are welcomed into the local community and they will make an oath of allegiance (or affirmation) to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second and a pledge of loyalty to the United Kingdom.  A substantial fee is paid in advance to the United Kingdom Border Agency.  This is non-returnable even if the application is unsuccessful.

A recent ceremony held in the council’s Coed Glas offices in Abergavenny featured six new citizens welcomed by Monmouthshire’s Chairman, Councillor Brian Hood MBE, and Colonel Mike Harry, the Deputy Lieutenant of Gwent.

Among those accepting British citizenship were popular local cleric Father Robbie Dennis and his wife Diane.  Father Dennis has lived in the UK for eight years and currently officiates at St Teilo’s Church in Abergavenny.  Originally from South Africa, Father Dennis and his wife were involved in the struggle against apartheid and Father Dennis was proud to have once given communion to Nelson Mandela when he visited his parish church.  Father Dennis said: “It’s been a long process but I now feel I can better serve the community I represent”.

Councillor Hood added: “The thing I notice most at the citizenship ceremony is how very proud people are to become British and they are thrilled with the welcome the people of Monmouthshire extend to them.  The bonus is that this is a wonderful place to live and work and all these new citizens seem very hard working at a variety of jobs”.

Photograph: (left to right) C Cllr Brian Hood MBE, Mrs Diane Dennis, Rev Dennis and Col. Mike Harry

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There are nine buildings in Conwy and Denbighshire currently owned by the Welsh Government but not being used, including a building in Conwy which has been empty since 2002.

Responding to a written question, the Minister for Business Enterprise, Technology and Science confirmed that the annual costs associated with the empty buildings amounts to £63,100.

Clwyd West AM Darren Millar said:

“It is appalling that the Welsh Labour Government is squandering tens of thousands of pounds of taxpayers’ money on empty buildings at the same time as cutting budgets for essential health services.

“The Welsh Government must undertake an urgent review of how it is using its estate in order to provide the best value for money for the public purse.

“There can be no excuse for leaving buildings empty for over a decade.”

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After the severe wet weather, rangers and volunteers spent four days repairing the damage that had been caused.

Senior ranger Gilly Seddon said: “Waters reached a height that regulars using the Park have never witnessed before. What had been a trickle of water coming over the dam quickly became a torrent that could be heard throughout the Park. Wepre Brook filled the valley floor from one end to the other and washed away the path at the end of the boardwalk. The boardwalk was thick with mud and sand and had to be scraped back. Along with all the hard work that had to be done, eels had to be scooped off the football pitch!”

Tom Woodall, Head of Flintshire Countryside Service added: “Our rangers and volunteers have been working steadily to repair the path and clear a dam that had been created from the force of the water washing debris and trees to a bend in the river. As always, we’d like to say a big thank you to the volunteers who put in such a tremendous effort to help us.”

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Main contractor BAM Nuttall is currently preparing for the 52 week contract with verge clearance and ducting necessitating cones on the inside lanes.  These works will continue until June after which the main impact on the public will take effect with changes to access from the B4245 and the M4.  Improvements and upgrades on the B4245 slip roads will require a series of diversions, night time road closures and installation of traffic signals.  This work is expected to take 11 weeks and be ready by the end of August.  Meanwhile, reconstruction on the single carriageway route from the M4 to the steelworks site is anticipated to be complete by November.  Lane closures will be in operation while resurfacing and the final installation of traffic signs take place.

The Steelworks Access Road will open once operations on the steelworks site dual-carriageway come to an end early next year.  It will provide an alternative route to the M4 – improving resilience to incidents on the motorway, as part of the Welsh Government’s Corridor Enhancement Measures – as well as a convenient route from Magor to the south of Newport.  During the works a 40mph speed limit will be in place and updates on details will be available on Monmouthshire County Council’s roadworks report www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/ as well as publicised on yellow roadside information boards.

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Set up by the council’s Family Information Service (FIS), the website – www.monfis.org.uk – is aimed at all parents, carers and families across the county and currently receives up to 6,000 visitors per month.  Monmouthshire’s FIS was established nearly ten years ago and has continually expanded to provide useful information.  This has been incorporated within the new website in an appealing, accessible and attractive format and is updated several times a day to ensure details are up-to-date and accurate.

Among the topics featured are parenting tips and advice, additional needs support, Welsh language development and financial support, while a Fun at Home section provides songs, recipes, stories, arts, crafts and games to keep youngsters entertained.  Other subjects include how to become a childminder, downloading a childcare document, a monthly poll, signing for the service’s termly newsletter, upcoming family events, and frequently asked questions.  Viewers to the website are invited to submit services they provide or events they wish to promote.

Monmouthshire’s FIS has its own Facebook page and Twitter account linked to the website and both are effective ways of keeping parents and carers in touch with the council.  Almost 200 people have linked to the Facebook page and the Twitter account (@MonFamilies) has over 1,600 followers.  The service also runs an advice telephone line (01633 644527).

Monmouthshire’s Chief Executive Paul Matthews said: “It’s very important that we invest in our Early Years provision and our Family Information Service website is a good example of how we aim to give a good start to youngsters in Monmouthshire.”

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Elfed Roberts explained the difference this Lafarge sponsorship makes, “We are delighted that Lafarge has come on board as a major sponsor and partner.  This donation of material and the expertise Lafarge brings with it in terms of the use of the stone, will make a major difference to the event, especially with our unpredictable Welsh weather!  Lafarge plays a major role in the communities and economies of South Wales and it is a pleasure to be associated with the company for the 2012 Eisteddfod.”

Aberthaw Works manager James Kirkpatrick added,  “We are very excited to be working with the Eisteddfod organisers, especially as the festival comes to the Vale of Glamorgan in 2012, Aberthaw Works’ Centenary year.  Through a joint approach, we were able to agree a sizable donation of material from our Ewenny Quarry near Bridgend.

“In addition to providing the material with which to construct the main site road, we will also have a presence in the Eisteddfod Science Pavilion.  This will give us an opportunity to demonstrate the science behind Lafarge’s manufacturing processes and raise the profile of construction materials as an important industry for the future.”

The National Eisteddfod is held at old airfield in Llandow near Cowbridge and Llantwit Major from 4-11 August.  For more information go to www.eisteddfod.org.uk.

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This year, categories are introduced for the first time. Three titles have been short-listed in each three category: Poetry, Fiction and Creative Non-Fiction (Welsh Short List below). The three poetry collections to have reached the short list are Catulla Et Al (Bloodaxe Books) by Tiffany Atkinson, a collection of poems which summon up the sensual and scandalous spirit of the Latin poet Catullus with one foot in a recognisable “real world” while still bending it out of shape; Deep Field (Bloodaxe Books) by Philip Gross, a collection of deeply felt and deeply thought poems about the poet’s father’s loss of his several languages, first to deafness, then profound aphasia; the third publication in this category is Sparrow Tree (Bloodaxe Books) by Gwyneth Lewis, a highly inventive collection that puts nature writing in a spin and launches into flights of avian fancy or fantasy on several levels.

The three titles in the Fiction category this year are Wild Abandon (Hamish Hamilton) by Joe Dunthorne, a novel which delves into the lives of brother and sister Albert and Kate on their communal farm in South Wales, which involve preparation for the end of the world and a 10k sound system;  The Keys of Babylon (Seren) by Robert Minhinnick, a collection of interlinked short stories which look all over the world at people who are on the move, searching for a better life, and comes to a crescendo as the individual narratives are drawn together at the same hour on one momentous day; and The Last Hundred Days (Seren) by Patrick McGuinness, the author’s first novel which takes the reader to Bucharest in 1989, a world of danger, repression and corruption, but also of intensity and ravaged beauty.

The three titles in the Creative Non-Fiction category are Ghost Milk (Hamish Hamilton) by Iain Sinclair, a work which explores the grandest of Grand Projects – the giant myth that is 2012’s London Olympics as the author deems it, and a statement on the throwaway impermanence of the present; The Vagabond’s Breakfast (Alcemi) by Richard Gwyn, a memoir which is an account of his “lost” year; of addiction and reckless travel; love and fatherhood; recovery; living with viral hepatitis, and the life-saving gift of a liver graft. Last, but not least, is Byron Rogers’ Three Journeys (Gomer), a part reminiscence, part gazetteer, part portrait gallery, and turns on Byron Rogers’s experiences of growing up in, and leaving, Wales.

Spencer Jordan, Chair of the English-language Judging Panel said: “Without a doubt this has been the hardest Wales Book of the Year to adjudicate. The quality of the writing has been astounding. Submissions have come from some of the biggest names in fiction. But we’ve also had the best of the ‘new’ writers. Actually arriving at just three authors in each category has been a monumental task. But, with a lot of discussion, and reading, we’ve done it.

Looking at the nine short-listed books, what emerges is the breadth of the work. Wales Book of the Year should be about passion, ambition and talent, and the short-listed authors have it in bucket loads.”

Lleucu Siencyn, Chief Executive of Literature Wales said: “The Wales Book of the Year 2012 Short List reflects the quality of the writing that is published here in Wales today; three categories and nine authors who deserve recognition for their work. This Award gives a voice to those who write diligently and quietly throughout the year so let’s celebrate their achievement and most importantly, read their words.”

The titles on the Welsh-language Short List are, in the Poetry category, Siarad Trwy’i Het (Cyhoeddiadau Barddas) by Karen Owen, Waliau’n Canu (Gwasg Carreg Gwalch) by Ifor ap Glyn, and Rhwng Gwibdaith a Coldplay by Gerwyn Wiliams. The three titles in the Fiction category are Neb Ond Ni (Gomer) by Manon Rhys, Y Storïwr by Jon Gower and Pantglas by Mihangel Morgan, and in the Creative Non-Fiction category the three titles were Kate: Cofiant Kate Roberts 1891 – 1985 (Y Lolfa) by Alan Llwyd, John Morris-Jones (Gwasg Prifysgol Cymru) by Allan James and Hen Enwau O Arfon, Llŷn ac Eifionydd (Gwasg y Bwthyn) by Glenda Carr.

The Wales Book of the Year Award Winner will be announced in the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Cardiff on Thursday 12 July 2012 at 7.00 pm. For more information and to book tickets contact Literature Wales: 029 2047 2266 / post@literaturewales.org

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The Torch will be carried first through Connah’s Quay, starting at about 4.10pm on the B5126 Mold Road near its junction with Ffordd Llanarth, downhill to the junction with the B5129 then right on to High Street. It will then continue along the B5129 through Shotton to Queensferry.

To ensure the safety of the convoy and spectators it will be necessary to close the B5129 between Queensferry roundabout and its junction with the B5126 Mold Road. This closure will start at approximately 3:45pm and in the first instance will only apply in the direction from Queensferry to Connah’s Quay. All major side roads along the length of the B5129 closure will also be closed at this time.

The two offslips from the A494 to Queensferry Roundabout, together with the offslip off Aston Hill at the Plough junction will be closed to coincide with the closure of the B5129 at the roundabout. Traffic joining the roundabout from the Gladstone Way and Sandycroft directions will only be allowed to exit the roundabout onto the A494 dual, either north or south.

Through traffic that would have travelled from Queensferry towards Connah’s Quay will be diverted onto the A548 passing over the Flintshire Bridge.

Approximately five minutes before the arrival of the relay convoy, traffic will be held up in the direction in which the relay will travel, to enable it to change from convoy mode to torch bearer mode. This will apply at the start of the relay at other locations where the road is to be closed. The relay will travel in the left hand lane of the route from Connah’s Quay through Shotton, ending at Deeside Leisure Centre at 4:45pm. The use of the left hand lane for the convoy will also apply along the other closed sections of road.

On the arrival of the convoy at the Leisure Centre the B5129 between Queensferry and Connah’s Quay will be re-opened and traffic will be allowed to flow in both directions but the three slip road closures will not be removed until the relay has moved on to the next section of the route, Gladstone Way.

The torch will then be carried along is the A550 Gladstone Way, from the junction with Cottage Lane (Strike’s Nursery) up to the Monument junction on the B5125, The Highway, Hawarden. It will then turn left and continue through Hawarden along Glynne Way.

This section of the relay will start at approximately 5.10pm. For the relay to start safely at this point, Gladstone Way will be closed at the exit from Queensferry Roundabout, until such time that there is sufficient queuing space behind the relay. The B5125 into Hawarden from the Broughton direction will also be closed at approximately 5pm, together with any side roads. No official diversions will be indicated on site because of the short period taken for the relay to pass through Hawarden. Through traffic would be able to travel through Sandycroft or use the A55 west bound. Again, traffic will eventually be allowed to follow the convoy relay when safe to do so.

The final leg of the relay in Flintshire will see the Torch carried along the A5104 Saltney High Street, starting at approximately at 5.30pm at the B5129 Saltney Ferry junction and then on into Chester. Saltney High Street will be closed in both directions for the period of the relay with traffic heading towards Chester being diverted along Sandy Lane and through the Lache whilst in the other direction traffic will be diverted along Boundary Lane. The relay will leave Saltney at 5.45 pm and continue on into Chester.

Publicised times are approximate and may be affected by unexpected delays. The Council will publicise any major changes on the day on its web site and via local radio stations.

Flintshire County Council’s Chief Executive Colin Everett said:

“This is a fantastic, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for local people to line the route and show their support for London 2012 as the Olympic Flame is carried through Flintshire. Come and support our torchbearers. We hope that all those involved, whether as part of the relay itself or as a spectator, will have an enjoyable experience and that local communities will be patient with the disruption to traffic for this special event.”

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Forty Year 9 pupils from Ysgol Gyfun Bryn Tawe have been invited to participate in a ‘‘Taste of languages through the medium of Welsh”, day by Swansea University’s Department of Languages, Translation and Media and the South West Wales Reaching Wider Partnership.

The day has been sponsored by Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol, Swansea University and the South West Wales Reaching Wider Partnership which aims to widen access into higher education across south west Wales.

The aim of the day will be to promote modern foreign language opportunities through the medium of Welsh. The pupils will receive a tour of Swansea University campus as well as a talk about university life.

They will also participate in various workshops such as ‘German for All’, ‘Holiday Spanish’ and a ‘Surviving French Translation’ session.

Dr Geraldine Lublin from Swansea University’s Department of Languages, Translation and Media said: ‘‘It is great to see that so many pupils from Ysgol Gyfun Bryn Tawe are interested in attending our taster day. I sincerely hope that they will enjoy each session and learn that there are great benefits to studying foreign languages through the medium of Welsh at Swansea University.”

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The event was a huge success thanks to the hard work of many volunteers in the months before and on the day itself.  Litter and fly tipping were cleared by Coast Path volunteers, Keep Wales Tidy teams, Tidy Towns and Gwent Wildlife Trust while members of the Lower Wye Ramblers, Chepstow Town Council and the Chepstow Walkers are Welcome Committee also generously donated their time.

Monmouthshire County Council Countryside staff and volunteers ensured all signs were in place and that the path was passable with staff at the local tourist information centre also playing their part.  Walkers were grateful to local businesses for donations including free bottled water from Asda and the loan of a water urn from St Pierre Golf Club.

The council’s Coast Path Officer, Helen Howlett, welcomed everyone to the celebrations of the opening of the Coast Path and also Chepstow’s timely accreditation as a ‘Walkers are Welcome’ town.  Chair of the Chepstow Committee, Paul Gowen, spoke briefly about the award, followed by Maurice Turner of the Lower Wye Ramblers who was leading the walk.  It was Maurice’s idea to hold the event as part of Ramblers Cymru’s Big Wales Coast Walk and he had originally estimated a maximum of 70 participants!

Retiring Mayor of Chepstow, Henry Hodges, thanked local choristers for providing a rousing send off and after cutting a ribbon bearing the Wales Coast Path symbol sent walkers on their way.  Local scouts led the procession.

Helen Howlett said: “We have been able to make many improvements in Monmouthshire over the last six years thanks to support from the Countryside Council for Wales and grant aid from the Welsh Government.  However, there is so much more we wish to accomplish in the years ahead.”

Photograph: Leaving Chepstow for Mathern

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Fellow Labour AM Mick Antoniw will introduce a draft bill to the Assembly next week that seeks to redress years of suffering by people who have worked with asbestos and contracted diseases such as mesothelioma (cancer of the lining of the lungs) as a result.

Jeff Cuthbert AM said: “As a lifelong trade unionist, I very much applaud my colleague Mick Antoniw on bringing this important legislation forward.

“Over the years, employees who have worked with asbestos have been at risk of developing serious long-term health complications.

“This places a considerable financial burden on the Welsh NHS and it is right that it should be able to recover such costs from employers when the latter are proven to have been negligent.

“The money recovered can then be re-allocated to the benefit of sufferers of asbestos-caused diseases and their families.”

If you live in the Caerphilly constituency and would like to speak to Jeff about this, please contact him on 01443 838 542 (Gilfach office) or 029 2089 8314 (Cardiff Bay office).

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Eisteddfod Organiser, Hywel Wyn Edwards, said, “Organising the interviews has been quite challenging this year because a number of the competitors live outside Wales.  We’ve had to accommodate different time zones in our preparations, which has been quite a handful at times!

“We’ll be using Skype technology for the first time this year – and thank goodness for the technology! It’s great that we have people showing an interest in learning Welsh and getting involved across the world, and Skype allows us to make the competition and the Eisteddfod itself accessible to people, wherever they live!”

The names of the four finalists will be announced over the weekend following a day of activities at the St Donats Arts Centre.  The final will be held  on 8 August, and the winner will be announced at a special ceremony in the Bear Hotel, Cowbridge, that evening.

This year’s competition is sponsored by Agored Cymru and the Trophy is donated by Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan Welsh for Adults Centre, Cardiff University, and the financial prize of £300 is given by the Gwynfor Fund, Barry.

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The visit was organised by Enterprise, Media and Performing Arts students at the Gorseinon campus.

Johnny, who is appearing in the new blockbuster film Snow White and the Huntsman alongside Charlize Theron and Kristen Stewart, held a workshop with students and was able to provide advice on a one-to-one basis.

“This event was a result of a successful collaboration between three departments within the college,” says Enterprise event organiser Lucy Turtle. “Staff and students worked exceptionally well together to make this a very exciting occasion. It was great to meet Johnny and hear about his experiences in the acting industry.”

Photograph courtesy of Anthony Shadrach

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The event, providing sports and leisure activities,  is being arranged by Denbighshire Youth Service, in partnership with Leisure Services and Ruthin Rotary on Saturday, 26 May between 12pm and 4pm.

This a community event for all the family where you will be able to take part in some fun activities such as swimming, fencing, lacrosse  and many more events,  all of which are FREE!!!!!!!!

For more information please contact Joe Griffiths: 07920823541 joseph.griffiths@denbighshire.gov.uk.

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Professor Nidal Hilal, Director of the Centre for Advanced Water Technologies and Environmental Research (CWATER) co-authors the book entitled Membrane Modification: Technology and Applications with Dr Chris Wright from the Centre for NanoHealth.

Professor Hilal said:  “Membrane separation is extremely important for desalination, production of drinking water and waste water treatment. Membrane modification techniques are aimed at increasing the efficiency and performance of membrane separation making them attractive for specific separations.”

The book is especially timely as it follows an industry study by the Freedonia Group that reports that global demand for membranes is projected to increase by 9% annually to US$19.3 billion by 2015, while demand for water desalination products and services is forecast to increase 9.3% annually to US$13.4 billion by 2015.

Membrane separation is a technology which selectively separates (fractionates) materials via pores and/or minute gaps in the molecular arrangement of a continuous structure. Membrane separations are classified by pore size and by the separation driving force. These classifications include Microfiltration (MF), Ultrafiltration (UF), Nanofiltration (NF), Ion-Exchange (IE), and Reverse Osmosis (RO).

Professor Hilal and Dr Wright’s book presents a comprehensive review of the current developments within membrane separation processes with a focus on process optimisation through control of membrane surface properties for key industrial applications. According to him, membrane processes have many other applications apart from desalination.

Dr Wright said: “In addition to their use in water treatment and desalination, membrane processes are used in pharmaceutical industries to separate valuable medical products as they are capable to separate solid materials such as powders in the size range between one nanmoeter and 10 microns.”

For example microfiltration membranes [MF] have pores between 0.1 microns and 10 microns, ultrafiltration membranes [UF] have pores between five nanometers and 0.1 microns and nanofiltration membranes [NF] have pores between one nanometer and five nanometers.

He concluded: “Thus, the importance and versatility of membrane systems could range from industries such as water treatment and desalination to fuel cells to pharmaceutical production and emerging medical technologies such as tissue engineering.”

The book presents a complete range of membrane modification techniques used to increase efficiency of membrane processes. Modification of different materials and geometrics including flat-sheet, hollow-fiber and nano-fiber membranes, reverse osmosis (RO), membrane distillation (MD), gas separation (GS), pervaporation (PV), and membrane fuel cells (MFC), are extremely important for professionals such as analytical scientists, material engineers, and environmental chemists, as well as chemical and environmental engineers.

Professor Hilal added: “Membrane modification techniques will have significant impact on industry as they will lead to an improved efficiency of membrane processes that offer more products at less cost. More specifically, water treatment industry will benefit from operating better fouling-resistant membranes in RO desalination plants as it will reduce operational fouling problems and therefore reduce cost.”

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The Chatham House meeting will be in front of a prestigious academic and policy-oriented audience from the UK, Europe, US and Africa.

This will be the first in a series of dissemination events presenting the findings of a four year European Research Council-funded project which has taken an innovative approach to the study of global health governance and the ways in which competing ideas about health impact upon policy making.

The project team has been led by Professor Colin McInnes from Aberystwyth University and Professor Kelley Lee at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Dr Simon Rushton and Dr Owain Williams, both from Aberystwyth, have also been heavily involved in researching the project.

Professor McInnes explains, “We have been exploring this policy space with the aim of better understanding and explaining why progress on effective global health governance has been so difficult.

“We have demonstrated how different visions of health inform interests and determine pathways of response. These competing visions make global health governance a politically charged arena characterised by competition as well as cooperation.”

Four pressing contemporary global health issues will be examined at the Chatham House event: access to medicines, tobacco control, pandemic influenza and HIV / AIDS.

The mission of Chatham House is to be a world-leading source of independent analysis, informed debate and influential ideas on how to build a prosperous and secure world for all. Chatham House was founded in 1920 and is based in St James’ Square, London.

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The Dean of Llandaff, John Lewis, thanked those who supported the Cathedral’s Lent Appeal this year for the Tariro Project – a church-run charity in Harare which gives youngsters the chance of a home and an education.

He said, “The response has been amazing – almost double what we usually raise. We learnt all about the Tariro Project from Fr Nicolas Stebbing of the Community of the Resurrection who has been heavily involved with it. He spent the beginning of Lent at the Cathedral and really brought home to us how the project is giving hope and a sense of security to children who have nothing. He said a donation of £15 would fund one child’s education for a whole term. I am immensely grateful people have been so generous – particularly in this time of recession.”

This response brings the total parishioners have raised for Tariro to £21,500 – the Harvest Appeal raised  £5,500 and a further £2,000 was donated at Christmas. Last year, Llandaff parishioners raised more than £8,200 during Lent to set up a chicken farm at a school in Zambia.

For more information about the Tariro Project, please visit www.tarirouk.com.

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This striking Banksia coccinea (or ‘Scarlet Banksia’) has burst into bloom the same time that Scarlets legend Stephen Jones played his last game for the club. The record-breaking former Wales captain bowed out after his side’s match with Cardiff Blues on Saturday, ahead of his move to Wasps.

Marilla Burgess, horticulturist in charge of the Great Glasshouse where this Aussie ‘scarlet’ is now showing its colours, says the banksia has flowered before but it is something of a rare sight.

She said: “You have to be very careful with all the plants in the Great Glasshouse; some need lots and lots of TLC while others  thrive on neglect and you have to learn to leave them alone.  This is one of the latter and is clearly enjoying the micro-environment.

Banksia coccinea is a native of south-west western Australia.

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“We welcome the findings in the Estyn Report published today and we fully acknowledge that there is a problem. Welsh councils are committed to putting the educational needs of children and young people within their communities first.

The issue of surplus school places is indeed a major challenge facing Wales’ local authorities and the process is very complicated. Solving the problem is difficult especially with a 50% reduction in capital funding. However, local authorities are continuing to work with Welsh Government and Estyn to reduce surplus school places. The opening of new schools and closure of schools is not a decision that can be taken lightly. Local authorities have to undertake extensive consultation with communities before any decision can be taken, they have to balance both educational and community needs. Councils are committed to ensuring that the children and young people within their communities receive the best level of education possible.”

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During the week there have been various sightings of Coch Bach (real name John Jones), attempting to escape from a first floor window of the Old Gaol in Clwyd Street, Ruthin. He succeeded in making good his escape, leaving no trace behind.

All this in the week when Ruthin Gaol is celebrating its 10th anniversary of opening as a museum!

Coch Bach y Bala first escaped in 1879, when he walked out of the building when the staff were otherwise engaged. His next escape in 1913 was more adventurous in that he made a hole in his cell wall and, using bed clothes, lowered himself onto the roof of the gaol kitchen, got onto  the gaol wall and was away.

There has been a prison on the Ruthin Gaol site since the seventeenth century. It is one of the most impressive buildings in North Wales and the only purpose-built Pentonville style prison open to the public as a heritage attraction. Since its reopening in May 2002 after a two million pounds restoration project, people can spend time exploring its nooks and crannies and learn about life in the Victorian prison system.

See how the prisoners lived their daily lives: what they ate, how they worked, and the punishments they suffered. Explore the cells including the punishment, ‘dark’ and condemned cell. Find out about the Welsh Houdini and William Hughes the last man to be hanged there…

For further information, visit: www.ruthingaol.co.uk

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“This report sets out the perilous state of the Welsh NHS facing a crippling mix of increasing demand and budgetary constraints.

“It shows a worrying outlook for district general hospitals particularly in rural areas.

“Welsh Conservatives believe in local health services for local people.  Patients should not have to travel further for life-saving care.

“Local Health Boards are being forced to consider major restructuring and downgrades to vital services because of the record-breaking cuts Labour is imposing on our NHS.

“This year, the Welsh NHS is facing the deepest cuts in its history at the hands of Carwyn Jones’ Government.

“It is disappointing that this report was not published sooner and that Labour Ministers were not open with voters about their desire to centralise NHS services in advance of last week’s elections.

“Labour Ministers need to come clean on their downgrade plans, start an open and transparent consultation and listen to the views of patients and NHS staff.”

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“This amounts to a cut of a fifth in financial support for famers and that is absolutely unacceptable.

“The first minister’s decision to make rural affairs a junior ministerial position set out his stall a year ago. Today we have further proof of his contempt for the farming industry.

“While the Assembly and rural communities alike anxiously await the results of the Glastir review, today’s statement completely pre-empts it. This is neither transparent nor fair on farming communities the length and breadth of Wales.

“The deputy minister must properly explain this decision and clarify exactly where the funding wrenched from farmers will be used.”

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“I welcome the Welsh Government’s submission to the Treasury on the shortcomings of regional pay.

“The Welsh Conservative Group has made it clear that we are not in favour of regional pay, which was actually introduced to the UK by Gordon Brown’s Labour Government.

“We need action in Wales to grow the private sector and make it more competitive and I look forward to seeing Carwyn Jones’ government begin outlining how they will take up this challenge.”

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The 140 strong male voice choir aged 14-19 from the Valleys were created especially for the Blaenau Gwent and Heads of the Valleys National Eisteddfod opening concert in 2010, have been a great success during the series, and the four judges have been impressed with their performances both in the first round and in the semi final over the weekend.

Elfed Roberts, National Eisteddfod Chief Executive, said, “I’m sure we all enjoyed Only Boys Aloud’s rousing performances over the weekend, and we are pleased to see that many of their supporters have purchased tickets for this year’s Eisteddfod opening concert since their success.  We’re encouraging everyone to support the boys in the final this weekend, and hope that they’ll be successful in the competition.

“The Eisteddfod is very proud of our link with Only Boys Aloud.  We’ve been involved since the beginning of the project, and gave them their first opportunity to perform two years ago.  The choir has gone from strength to strength since then, and are definitely part of the Eisteddfod’s cultural and community legacy in south east Wales.  Good luck to them on Saturday.”

The Principality Building Society are great supporters of the choir, and Pat Ashman, the company’s Sponsorship and Events Manager says, “The Principality has supported Only Boys Aloud since the start, and we are delighted with their success in reaching the final of Britain’s Got Talent.  This is not only a boost to them as a choir but to Wales as a whole, and is a wonderful stage for choral singing in Wales, which is also important to the Principality.

“We’ve been sponsoring the Eisteddfod choral competitions for a number of years, and the opportunity to see a choir of young boys from the Valleys – created for the 2010 Eisteddfod – on one of the most popular programmes on television is great.  Good luck to them on Saturday, and we’re also looking forward to sponsoring the opening concert at the Eisteddfod this year, where the boys will shine on the Pavilion stage.”

Go to www.eisteddfod.org.uk to buy tickets for the opening concert or ring the ticketline on 0845 4090 800.

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Having finished second in the Blue Square Premiership, Wrexham narrowly missed out on automatic promotion, despite an impressive haul of 98 points.

On Monday, although fighting valiantly back from a goal down to secure victory on the night, Wrexham lost 3-2 to Luton Town on aggregate in the playoff semi-final. For fans this was a painful reminder of last season where Wrexham lost also to Luton in the same fixture.

Following the match, Lesley said:

“For want of better words I am gutted. Gutted for all our incredibly loyal fans and even more for the players and staff who have performed so magnificently to bring us this far.

“However ,  we must all remember how far the club has come in the last year and just how many hurdles have been overcome to get there. This time last year nobody was even sure we would have a club, let alone one owned by the fans, for the fans, and which would go on to exhibit such great form on the pitch.

“Be it our FA Cup run or our performances in the Conference, the team have had some fantastic results this season, and are the pride of our Town as ever. We may not have made it this time, but we will be back – in contention and fighting as strongly as ever next season.”

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The book, entitled ‘Whose People? Wales, Israel and Palestine,’ published by University of Wales Press asks searching questions about the relationship that Wales has with the Israel-Palestine situation.

Surveying Welsh missionary writing, fictional imaging of Jews, and the political use of images of Palestine and Israel, it challenges received wisdom about Welsh tolerance and liberalism, and identifies a complex and unique relationship.

Dr Jasmine Donahaye graduated with a PhD in English from Swansea University in 2004 after achieving a BA in Celtic Studies from the University of California, Berkeley.

Today, she is a creative writing lecturer at Swansea University, specialising in nature writing and poetry. Her published work includes cultural criticism, creative non-fiction and poetry.

Dr Jasmine Donahaye said: ‘‘This is the first monograph that looks at Welsh attitudes to Jews, Israel and Palestine, and the first study to ask critical  questions about the material. It contributes to the growing body of work in British Jewish studies and offers a particular Welsh angle to the study of the Israel-Palestine situation. At the same time I think it will challenge some assumptions within Wales.”

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When questioned by the Leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the Assembly, Andrew RT Davies AM, Carwyn Jones claimed LHBs had ‘more or less’ met their targets.

His change of tone follows a recent government press release entitled: ‘Remarkable Achievement: NHS Wales breaks even’. In reality, and apparent only in the last paragraphs of the press release, three had been bailed out with over 12 million pounds of public funding drawn down from the following year’s budgets.

The revelation came despite months of assurances from the health minister that all LHBs would balance their books and none would be bailed out. The minister made clear that if this did not happen, sanctions would be imposed.

Speaking after First Minister’s Questions, Mr Davies said:

“The government’s initial arrogant claims and cynical attempts to mislead the Welsh public have been found out and rubbished.

“The first minister’s response today makes it clear that last week’s claims were no more than a ham-fisted attempt to look competent. They failed. Despite assurances that no health board would be bailed out, three were. Despite assurances that all health boards would break even, three didn’t.

“These bail-outs prove that our NHS is being massively underfunded by Carwyn Jones and frontline services continue to suffer at the hands of his record-breaking cuts. Welsh Conservatives have long warned that this situation is unsustainable.

“Rather than increase investment for the NHS the Welsh Labour Government continues to paper over the cracks, mislead the public, and leave health boards desperately treading water.”

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His announcement of 600 new jobs in Cardiff – made as Wales prepared to enter a local election campaign – has now been called a ‘misunderstanding’ by the company itself, Firstsource.

It is reported that the ‘vast majority’ of the jobs will be transferred from an existing operator.

Shadow Minister or Business Nick Ramsay AM said:

“This blunder puts the First Minister on very thin ice indeed.

“His announcement was made immediately before we entered a period of campaigning. Its promise of new jobs resulted in a series of good news messages and arguably gave the impression that his government was involved in some way.

“Now we are told it was all a misunderstanding. That’s a serious error that can’t be spun away with the word ‘semantics’ as the first minister has attempted. Either 600 jobs are coming – or they’re not.

“While I welcome the news that Firstsource is committed to Cardiff, the first minister should now clarify the remarks he made.”

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