A new build locomotive for Corris Railway in Mid Wales could be steaming for an open day at Ross-on-Wye engineers Alan Keef Ltd’s on September 24.
Footplating work is well advanced on number 10, the Falcon and the saddle tank will be assembled by Corris Railway volunteers in the East Midlands to save money, before delivery to Alan Keef Ltd’s workshops. Staff from Alan Keef have visited Talyllyn Railway at Tywyn to check details - particularly the blast pipe arrangement - of Corris number 3 engine, a forerunner of the new loco. Even if the new loco is steaming in September, more work still needs to be completed before it enters service at Corris next year. 2023 marks the 140th anniversary of steam services being introduced at Corris, headed by a trio of locomotives, ancestors of the new engine. Donations for the new loco, which are needed to meet the target dates, can be made online at www.corris.co.uk or cheques, payable to Corris Railway, can be sent to Peter Guest, 38 Underwood Close, Callow Hill, Redditch, B97 5YS.
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Important Google's Universal Analytics Changes For those that have Google's Universal Analytics (UA) plugged into their websites (and if you haven’t, you should have) come the 1st July 2023 this is being retired and replaced by Google's Analytics 4 (GA4) So what is Google Analytics/Universal Analytics? In a nutshell GA/UA is a little piece of code that is placed in your website and monitors your website and your website users. The basics including monitoring website hits/users, where your traffic is coming from (social media, visitmidwales.co.uk, showmewales.co.uk etc). This is really important for businesses to monitor the performance of their own website/marketing. So why are they changing? The way google collects data is changing, for those that use UA you will probably have noticed it starting to creek at the seams 🙈, more and more browsers are blocking cookies which means that it’s become less reliable, and we see this often when we look at referrals from Visitmidwales.co.uk/showmewales.co.uk. Although we know that outgoing clicks are taking place from our websites, on providers website they often don’t register on UA. Therefore, GA4 uses no cookies, so in theory this should provide much more reliable data for where website users are coming from. Helping businesses to tailor their marketing and know what sites are working for them and which aren’t. The new GA4 also uses ‘events’ whilst UA relies on ‘page views’ – This means that event the default settings in GA4 will measure events which will include not just pageviews, but also scrolls, video engagement, outgoing clicks, search queries and file downloads. So what do you need to do? Before 1 July 2023 you will need to ask your web developer to change your code to the new UA code. Unfortunately, you will only be able to access your historical data for 6 months and won’t be carried across to the new GA4 stats. When to change to GA4? We would recommend that members look to change their code as soon as possible. We all know we’ve got to change so we might as well get a head start on collecting data in the new GA4 system. For members who have websites built by MWT, then this process will happen automatically over the next couple of months so there’s no need for you to do anything. If you have any questions or queries, please do not hesitate to get in touch with Zoe on 01654 702653 or email zoe@mwtcymru.co.uk More InfoBuilth Wells Event Safety Group has launched a safety campaign ahead of the return of Wales’ premier agricultural show next week (July 18-21). The campaign will see a series of posters and banners displayed at licenced premises during Royal Welsh Show week, encouraging people in a creative and humorous way, to behave responsibly. It is one of a series of measures that will be introduced by the safety group, which was formed in 2017 and is led by Powys County Council. The measures aim to reduce public risk and improve the safety of those in and around Builth Wells during the period of the show. Other safety measures that will also be in place include:
Visitors to the Royal Welsh Show and the surrounding area are specifically asked to exercise care when travelling between the various venues including the showground, Young Peoples Village, Penmaenau Farm and Builth Wells town. In particular, care should be taken to avoid the river and traffic on what can be a busy trunk road. To facilitate safe travel between the various sites, a ‘Green Route’ has been established for those travelling on foot. Showgoers are asked to study the route which will be clearly marked and to make every effort to stick within it. Cllr Richard Church, Powys County Council’s cabinet Member for a Safer Powys, said: “The return of the Royal Welsh Show after three years will undoubtedly draw tens of thousands of visitors to Builth Wells and the surrounding area. “While we welcome the show’s return, it’s important that visitors and residents enjoy the annual agricultural event safely. Although this campaign is humorous in its approach, it does have important safety messages for those in and around Builth Wells during Royal Welsh Show week. “We want people to drink and behave responsibly and to look after themselves and their friends. As long as people Have Fun, Take Care and Stay Safe then they will have a memorable time during Royal Welsh Show week. “We understand that some of the measures that will be in place may cause some disruption for residents living in Builth Wells. However, they are necessary to keep visitors and residents safe throughout Royal Welsh Show week.” Steve Hughson, Royal Welsh Agricultural Society chief executive, said: “The Royal Welsh has played a leading role in helping to improve safety inside and outside our perimeter fence. “We applaud the success of the Builth Wells Event Safety Group in extending safety measures into the town and bringing all the various events that take place in show week together in one place. “The measures will improve the safety of everyone coming to Builth and we encourage visitors to follow the guidance, act responsibly and look after each other. Have a great show.” For more information on staying safe during this years' Royal Welsh Show go to the RWAS website. Picture caption: Showgoers will be asked to follow the 'Green Route' when travelling from various locations surrounding the Royal Welsh Showground, including the Young People’s Village, Penmaenau Farm and Builth Wells town. Three businesses have been shortlisted for this year’s Sir Bryner Jones Memorial Award, the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society’s flagship accolade.
With exceptional entries from 10 counties across Wales, the judges had a challenging task whittling it down to three candidates. The winner will be announced on the first day of the Royal Welsh Show on July 18. The shortlisted candidates are: Gwenyn Gruffydd Ltd, Bryn Bach, Dryslwyn, Carmarthen, a successful business based on beekeeping and natural honey products. Radnor Hills Water Co Ltd, Heartease Farm, Knighton, a multi award-winning spring water and soft drinks company formed by Mr William Watkins 1990, which is focused on environmental sustainability The Rhug Estate, Corwen, a sustainable organic farm run by Lord Newborough which has a farm shop, restaurant, café, takeaway, drive thru and generates green energy. The estate’s award-winning meat is exported and sold to top restaurants across the UK. Sir Bryner Jones helped shape the direction of the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society for 50 years, was Agricultural Commissioner for Wales and subsequently became Welsh Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture. He was Royal Welsh president in 1954, the society’s golden jubilee year. Since 1957 the award has been made annually to someone from a different area of the farming industry who has reached the highest level of achievement in the chosen sector. This year the judges were looking for an individual or business that is actively involved in food and/or drink production which demonstrates sustainable innovation and enhances the environment in Wales. The winner’s medal is sponsored by Gareth Roberts, one of the society’s board of directors. “We had the privilege of visiting 10 businesses throughout Wales over the course of five days throughout May and June,” said the judges, Mr Brian Jones MBE and Mr Richard Vaughan. “All the candidates were a credit to the food and drink sector in Wales, showing excellent product knowledge with efficient marketing regimes, which bodes well for growing the industry here in Wales.” Leader Matthew Hirst has edged closer to the 2022 Motorsport UK Pirelli Ravenol Welsh Rally Championship title after winning the Nicky Grist Stages – Interclub event for the first time.
Having already won the opening three rounds of the series, Hirst and co-driver Declan Dear were once again on unbeatable form, scoring maximum points on the Builth Wells-based event in their Pirelli-shod Delta Salvage Ford Fiesta R5+. “This is the first time that we’ve ever had a clean run on the Nicky Grist Stages and I’m delighted to come home with victory and maximum points. We were even able to ease off on the last stage because by then there was nothing to gain and everything to lose,” said Hirst. “The Welsh Championship is looking good for us now, but it’s certainly by no means over. We haven’t won the title yet and we must maintain our focus if we want to bring the title home.” Dylan Davies enjoyed his best run of the season, collecting second-placed in his Škoda Fabia R5+. Co-driven by Mark Glennerster, the 2019 Welsh champion drove well and, in very hot conditions, came home 1min 20secs behind Hirst. James Giddings once again finished on the podium after a great run in his Group N Fordpad Mitsubishi Evo 9. Partnered by Lee Taylor, he collected third-place in the overall standings and won the Ravenol Welsh Challenge category. Robert Wilson was a very close fourth in his Ravenol Mitsubishi Evo 7 and, for the second time this year, won the OnThePaceNote.co.uk supported Welsh Junior category. Co-driven by Richard Crozier, the youngster was delighted with the result, especially as he felt that, for the first time, the car was working perfectly and he felt comfortable and confident behind the wheel. The Nicky Grist Stages was live-streamed, with action from the stages and driver and co-driver interviews with Howard Davies coming from the service park. All the footage can be viewed at leisure on: facebook.com/WELSHRALLYCHAMPIONSHIP. Further details on the championship can be found online at: wnrc.wamc.org.uk. Picture caption: Top three at the Nicky Grist Stages. Paul Mitchell Photography Multi-award winning Shrewsbury leisure business Salop Leisure has added to the range of motorhomes that it sells by becoming a regional agent for upcoming French brand Joa Camp.
The attractively priced range of Joa Camp motorhomes start from £46,500 and offers an opportunity for first time buyers to invest in a new model to enjoy their holidays and short breaks. Salop Leisure is holding an open weekend on August 6 and 7 to showcase the new Joa Camp range of motorhomes. Joa Camp, part of the Pilote Group, says it offers the best value for money motorhomes on the market and they are well-equipped. The motorhomes offer a cosy setting for couples and families wanting to combine holiday enjoyment with a “clever purchase”. Well-designed, well-organised and well-manufactured, the motorhomes have a Citroen chassis and engine and offer generous spaces and smart storage areas. There are five possible layouts in the motorhome range and three in the panel van range, all available with three essential fittings packs. Salop Leisure currently have seven Joa Camp models in stock – two each of the 70Q, 75Q and 75T and one 63T– all available to purchase and other models can be pre-ordered for 2023. Paul Simpson, Salop Leisure’s Touring Caravan and Motorhome Associate Director, said the Joa Camp motorhomes have attracted a lot of interest from customers since they arrived at the Shrewsbury dealership recently. “They offer customers an opportunity to buy a brand new motorhome, with all the associated benefits, for the price of many pre-owned models,” he said. “Whilst they may be considered entry level, the specification and equipment levels match that of much more highly priced brands. “We are excited to have these new models available at a time when the industry is struggling to get new stock.” Salop Leisure, which is also an agent for Swift and Coachman touring caravans and motorhomes, reports that interest in leisure vehicles remains high this summer. “We understand that it’s a difficult time with the rising cost of living for our customers, but they tell us that holidays are still very important to them,” added Mr Simpson. “And we are here to help them by providing motorhomes, touring caravans and holiday homes that they can use and enjoy throughout the year.” Picture caption: Salop Leisure’s Paul Simpson with models from the Joa Camp motorhome range. More than 600 people attended Newtown Summer Fayre on Saturday, creating a festival-like atmosphere as local talent and opportunities in and around the town were showcased.
The successful event, co-hosted by Open Newtown and Oriel Davies on the gallery green, delivered a day full of creativity, curiosity and connection. A highlight for many was the Rinky Dink bicycle powered sound system, a legendary part of Glastonbury and many other festivals over the years. Rinky Dink meandered around the green space showcasing its eco-conscious design whilst filling the ears of attendees with music throughout the day. The event was attended by all ages, an opportunity for families in the community to enjoy a day filled with free, exciting activities, workshops and music. People were welcomed and encouraged to engage with their green spaces and learn about local artists, upcoming projects and to try something new whilst being able to hang out with friends, old and new. Local community groups and organisations which brought stalls and activities included Weaving Wild, Queen of the Cranx , National Theatre Wales, Small World Puppetry, Peddle Emporium, The Textile Junkies to name but a few. Stwff and Things and Hummingbird Food provided delicious refreshments. Positive feedback included this comment by Moyra Aston: “A real buzz on the field this morning – well done to the organisers for such a bright festive atmosphere.” Sadie Ella added: “‘Absolutley fantastic family day and all workshops were free. Thank you to all those involved.” Jeremy Meade, Open Newtown’s project manager, said: “It was such a pleasure seeing so many happy faces lit-up, and watching our community really getting stuck in with the activities on offer.” The Summer Fayre was organised by Open Events, a partnership project between Oriel Davies and Open Newtown. The project is supported by the Welsh Government’s Enabling Natural Resources and Well-being (ENRaW) Scheme. ENRaW supports the development and delivery of projects that make clear links between improving the resilience of our natural resources and well-being. Funding is provided through the Welsh Government Rural Communities - Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the Welsh Government until June 2023. The countdown has begun towards this year’s Get Connected Rali Ceredigion on Saturday and Sunday, September 3 and 4.
The event returns to Aberystwyth for a weekend of memorable motorsport against the spectacular backdrop of the Cambrian Mountains. After making its highly successful debut in 2019, the much-acclaimed rally returns bigger and better in 2022. The organisers are excited to announce a range of innovations that see this ground-breaking rally continue to set new standards for an event of its size and status. The rally has becomee a round of two national and two international championships: the Motorsport UK British Rally Championship, Protyre Motorsport UK Asphalt Rally Championship, FIA European Rally Trophy and the TER (Tour European Rally). Consequently, it will attract the best competitors in the UK together with top-level overseas teams Now taking place over two days, the event features a longer rally route comprising 86 competitive miles and 85 road miles, with four stages on Saturday evening, plus a further eight on Sunday. A brand-new spectator-focussed stage on the streets in Aberystwyth will run twice on Saturday. Starting near the harbour, competitors will run into the edge of the town before heading towards the sea front for the finish. The event will feature a showcase scrutineering, start, finish and service area, together with a food festival comprising locally sourced produce - all based in Aberystwyth. Fans will benefit from a series of strategically placed viewing zones incorporating commentary, catering and toilet facilities. Coupled with an innovative park-and-ride scheme, the rally offers an enhanced spectator experience. Increased engagement with the community and local businesses, together with an extended public relations and media reach, will serve to raise the international profile of the event and increase economic impact within the region. Sustainability is the rally’s key focus, with this year’s theme ‘promoting sustainable motoring’ seeing organisers introduce initiatives that will significantly reduce the event’s impact on the environment and provide a platform to deliver a longer-term legacy. Organisers have confirmed that entries will open on Friday, July 18, with online registration accessible via the event’s updated website. Previously selling out within 48 hours and with interest in the event greater than ever, competitors are advised to submit their entry as soon as possible. “We are excited to be announcing details and counting down our 2022 event, especially after a two-year gap,” said chairman of the organising committee, Phil Pugh. “Following its success in 2019 and the reaction we received from the community, competitors, spectators, sponsors and marshals, we are pleased to announce a higher-profile and extended event, whilst maintaining a very compact route. “We are looking forward to welcoming the best competitors from across the UK alongside a number of overseas teams from the Tour European Rally and FIA European Rally Trophy. “A focus on sustainability will run throughout all aspects of the event, from a range of innovative initiatives that significantly reduce the environmental impact to working with local partners, using the event as a platform to promote sustainable motoring whilst showcasing options to help decarbonise transport.” Ceredigion County Councillor Clive Davies, Cabinet Member for the Economy and Regeneration, said: “We’re proud to be part of Rali Ceredigion this year. The organisers are fully committed in introducing new measures to reduce environmental impacts of the event. “We would like to take this opportunity to raise awareness of the need to all work together to reduce the impact we have on the environment. "This will be the first event in the UK to achieve a new environmental management accreditation issued by the FIA – the world motorsport’s governing body. “Rali Ceredigion will be reducing the impact and emissions of spectator vehicles by providing park and ride and public transport opportunities, promoting car sharing and using repeat competitive stages to limit the need for spectator movement.” In response, Mr Pugh thanked the council, the organising team, sponsors, partners and residents for their support and commitment. For the latest news and further details about the event, visit: www.raliceredigion.co.uk Picture caption: A view of the spectacular landscape visited by the 2019 Get Connected Rali Ceredigion. The founder of the charity Horses4Health has been discovering the wonderful countryside of Mid Wales and Shropshire as part of The Great Horses for Health Event.
Sophie Gifford and her friend Ali Lock rode their horses, Jack and Fil, 70 miles in six days covering a section of Glyndwr’s Way in Mid Wales before crossing the border into Shropshire along the Jack Mytton Way. The ride has already raised almost £700 and is growing daily. They used Brandy Farm, a tourism and equine holidays business at Felindre, near Knighton, as the base for the start of her ride from June 26 to July 1, which raised money for UK equine charities. “Our husbands joined us as ground crew, dropping us at safe starting points and picking us up to return to base each night,” said Sophie. “They both then took the opportunity to enjoy their own sporting activities of golf and road cycling, marvelling at the beauty and abundance of terrain and courses they could enjoy whilst staying at Brandy House Farm.” Horses4Health is a not-for-profit initiative that aims to promote the positive impact horses can have on mental and physical health, while raising money for charities supporting equine and human welfare. The Great Horses for Health Event runs for 70 days until August 28 and encourages riders, carriage drivers, long-reiners and in-hand leaders to celebrate their horses and the positive impact they have on their own health. They also get to meet a new group of like-minded people, whilst enjoying the beautiful countryside. Sophie founded Horses4Health - www.horses4health.co.uk - in the 2020 pandemic lockdown to recognise the love, enjoyment and health benefits associated with owning a horse. Horses4Health’s lead charity is HorseWorld Trust and it also has a strong association with Riding for the Disabled. In addition to raising funds for both these charities, Horses4Health also operates a grant programme for registered UK equine charities who can apply for up to £1,000 funding. With more than 10,500 members in its Facebook Group and partnerships with key organisations, such as SEIB Insurance, BHS, British Equestrian Trade Association and Equine Exceed, Sophie and the HorseWorld Trust team have been able to marshal a nation of horse lovers. HRH Duchess of Cornwall is their patron for a second consecutive year. Medina Brock, who runs Brandy House Farm, Felindre, Knighton with her husband, Richard, said:” It is an absolute pleasure to support Horses4Health and all they do and have done. “We loved having Sophie and Ali, their lovely horses Jack and Fil and of course the back-up team, Andrew and Andrew, too and wish them all the best of luck with their onward journeying.” Brandy House Farm - www.brandyhousefarm.co.uk - is tourism business that provides cottage accommodation, POD camping, glamping and wild camping. The business encourages customers to bring their horses with them on holiday, as it offers on-site DIY livery, nine stables and individual turnout paddocks. Brandy House Farm is a member of MWT Cymru, an independent company representing more than 600 tourism and hospitality businesses across Powys, Ceredigion and Southern Snowdonia. Picture caption: Sophie Gifford and her horse Jack admire the fantastic Welsh Marches scenery during the ride. The National Cycle Museum charity in Llandrindod Wells is holding its fundraising annual Grand Mid Wales Cycle Jumble on Saturday, July 16 at Cefnllys School.
Stalls open at 8.30am with £4 for admission before 9.30am and £1 afterwards. Inside tables, which must by booked in advance, cost £10 and outside tables cost £7. To book a table or to donate unwanted cycle parts in good condition to the museum charity, contact Steve Griffith at griffith531@hotmail.com . The museum, which is open on Monday and Tuesday from 10am to 4pm and on Saturday from 10am to 2pm, is appealing for extra volunteers to allow it to open on more days this summer. Bicycles spanning 200 years of cycling and a wealth of cycling memorabilia are on display in the museum, which is located in the Automobile Palace, Temple Street. The museum is home to more than 250 cycles, representing the historical development of cycling from the early 1800s to the present day. A copy of the first British bicycle, nicknamed a Hobby Horse, made by Johnsons of London in 1818, is on display together with various Victorian solid tyred machines and cycles through the 1900s and early 2000s. For more information or to support the museum, visit http://www.cyclemuseum.org.uk . The museum is a member of MWT Cymru, an independent organisation representing more than 600 tourism and hospitality businesses across Powys, Ceredigion and Southern Snowdonia. |
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