The UK’s National Cycle Museum in Llandrindod Wells is appealing for unwanted cycle parts of all ages that are in good condition.
 
The parts are needed for the charity’s annual fundraising Cycle Jumble event, which is being held at nearby Cefnllys School on Saturday morning, April 12. The various stalls will include one for the museum.
 
The venue has a large, free car park for outside stalls as well as those inside the school hall.
 
“Anyone with unwanted cycle items in their garage or shed may like to donate them to the museum or book a stall themselves to sell them?” said Freda, museum curator. “Complete cycles are not needed for the museum stall.
 
“A free viewing of the museum is offered for those who can arrange to deliver items before the event.”
 
Those with items to donate are asked to contact Steve  Griffith on 07740923630 [email protected] .
 
The museum is open on Mondays and Tuesdays from 10am to 4pm and will also be open on Saturdays from 10am to 2pm in April. It will also be open from 9am to 1pm on the morning of  the Cycle Jumble.
 
The museum has been located at the Automobile Palace, Llandrindod Wells since 1997 and has more than 200 cycles and cycling memorabilia covering in excess of 200 years of cycling history.

Application for the 2025 Rural Leadership Programme are now being welcomed by the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society (RWAS).

The fully funded programme aims to cultivate the next generation of agricultural and rural leaders. Closing date for applications is 4pm on Tuesday, April 22.
 
Supported by a legacy from the late Mr N. Griffiths and match-funded by the Glamorgan Feature County of 2023, this innovative programme will develop up to 12 exceptional candidates through a comprehensive leadership development journey.

“We are looking for people with drive and ambition,” said Aled Rhys Jones, RWAS chief executive. “Our leadership programme has gained a fantastic reputation for helping participants gain clarity and confidence in their future career and business goals.
 
“We need good people and good leadership skills to help take our industry forward and this programme is an opportunity not to be missed.”
 
Participants will benefit from intensive leadership development sessions, networking opportunities with colleagues and industry leaders, advanced media and communications skills training and travel opportunities.
 
Previous participants have praised the programme's truly transformative impact. Lauren Evans, a recent attendee, said; “It was an experience I will never forget. A chance to push beyond your comfort zone, invest in your personal development and connect with lifelong cheerleaders. You start as strangers but, by the end, you’ll have 11 incredible supporters celebrating your every success.”

Liz Rees added “Wow, what a year it has been with the RWAS Leadership 24/25 cohort. The opportunities have been life changing and the support from so many individuals has encouraged and motivated me to make positive changes personally and lead the industry forward for generations to come.”
 
Successful applicants must demonstrate full commitment to the entire programme, punctuality and active participation and potential for leadership in agricultural and rural sectors.
 
The participants will be selected on Tuesday,  April 29 at Royal Welsh Showground, with the first session following from June 10-13 in North Wales and second session from October 20-31 in Cardiff and London.
 
Participants who complete the programme will be presented at the Royal Welsh Show’s Awards Ceremony and receive a prestigious certificate of achievement.
 
Application forms are available from the RWAS website: https://rwas.wales/ . Interested candidates must submit their completed applications via email to: [email protected] .

​Last year marked the 120th show, reflecting more than a century of commitment to Welsh agriculture and rural traditions.

Royal Welsh Agricultural Society chief executive Aled Rhys Jones said: “We are incredibly honoured to receive this award. The Royal Welsh Show is a national treasure and this award is testament to the hard work of our team, the dedication of our exhibitors and the passion of our visitors.
 
“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our directors, our loyal members and feature counties, our exhibitors, our volunteers, our dedicated staff and visitors. Their unwavering support and commitment make this event truly special and this award is a reflection of their collective efforts.”

Earlier in the day, before the awards ceremony, tourism and hospitality were praised as the "lifeblood of the Welsh economy", with businesses in the sector creating jobs and driving growth across the country.

The Welsh Government’s National Tourism Summit brought together industry leaders from Wales, the UK and Europe. The event provided an opportunity to explore the future of an industry that contributes £3.8 billion to the Welsh economy annually.

Tickets for this year’s Royal Welsh Show are available at https://rwas.ticketsrv.co.uk/events/ .

Rhodri Llwyd Morgan, the library’s chief executive, said: “It’s a very striking exhibition about Aberystwyth and its people and it has been a pleasure working with Bruce Cardwell and the partners around the town.
 
“This is the latest in a series of exhibitions and activities that cast a light on those aspects that make Aber unique as a community and which will give local people and visitors good reason to pay a visit to the national library.”
 
Ffion Rhys, Aberystwyth Arts Centre’s visual arts manager, said: “It is our absolute pleasure to work with Bruce Cardwell again on his ‘Byd Bach Aber’ Exhibition which will be exhibited across Aberystwyth.
 
“Bruce has a special gift of being able to capture a person's character in a photograph and I'm really looking forward to seeing how the collection of photos creates a unique portrait of this small town.”
 
Carrie Canham, Ceredigion Museum curator, said: "We'll be adding the ‘Byd Bach Aber’ images to our permanent displays. It's a wonderful opportunity to link the past with the present and help local people make links to their heritage.”
 
There will also be a series of events and activities to bring the exhibition alive to the community.

Designed as a place to switch off and unwind, the cabin features a handmade bed overlooking the meadow, a luxurious copper bath, a wood-fired hot tub and a cosy wraparound porch.
 
Guests are encouraged to explore the rich biodiversity of the surrounding area, with Steph’s background in geography and ecology inspiring a focus on wildlife spotting. From red kites soaring overhead to elusive otters in the nearby streams, the location offers a haven for nature lovers.
 
The MacDonalds owns a flock of 55 pedigree Zwartbles sheep on their 16-acre farm, which they purchased five years ago. Steph comes from a farming background while Paul grew up in the countryside.
 
Beyond running the cabin, Steph also writes The Quabbs blog, in which she shares insights of country life, seasonal wildlife, walking routes and the hidden gems of Mid Wales.
 
“I love writing The Quabbs blog, which helps people explore the fantastic scenery and nature on our doorstep. There’s so much to discover beyond the well-trodden paths and I want to encourage visitors to slow down and take it all in.”
 
The response so far has been overwhelmingly positive, with guests embracing the opportunity to experience an eco-friendly stay in such a tranquil setting. “We’re delighted that all weekends since we opened in January have been fully booked,” added Steph.
 
Quabbs Cabin has also been recognised by The Guardian for its unique and sustainable approach to holiday accommodation, further cementing its place as a must-visit retreat for eco-conscious travellers.
 
For those looking for an off-grid escape that blends sustainability, comfort and a deep connection to nature, Quabbs Cabin - https://quabbscabin.com/ - is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
 
Quabbs Cabin is a member of MWT Cymru (Mid Wales Tourism), an independent membership organisation representing 600 tourism and hospitality businesses across Powys, Ceredigion and Southern Eryri (Snowdonia).

Quabbs Cabin, eco-friendly holiday accommodation awaits in beautiful Mid Wales.
 ​

The April 2 entries deadline for livestock exhibitors and horse enthusiasts for the Royal Welsh Spring Festival is fast approaching.
 
The weekend festival - May 17 and 18 - provides an opportunity for those who can’t necessarily give up the time to show at mid-week events.
 
The Royal Welsh Agricultural Society (RWAS) has warned that late entries will not be accepted. Further information at the RWAS website https://rwas.wales/ or contact the livestock team on 01982 554413 or email: [email protected] .

​
Acclaimed actor and devoted equestrian, Martin Clunes OBE, will judge the prestigious Supreme Horse Championship at this year’s Royal Welsh Show.

Best known for his portrayal of Dr Martin Ellingham in the much-loved television series ‘Doc Martin’ and more recently, ‘Out There’, which was filmed across rural Mid Wales, Clunes is a passionate advocate for the equestrian community.
 
Since becoming president of the British Horse Society (BHS) in 2011, he has been a dedicated champion of horse welfare, rider safety and equestrian access. His lifelong love of horses is well documented and he has actively supported numerous equestrian events and charities across the United Kingdom.

His extensive experience and deep appreciation of equine excellence make him the ideal choice to judge the Supreme Horse Championship, the pinnacle of equestrian achievement at the show which brings together the finest horses and ponies from across the country.

“It is a great honour to be invited to judge the Supreme Horse Championship at the Royal Welsh Show,” said Clines. “The show is a highlight of the agricultural and equestrian calendar and I am very much looking forward to seeing the exceptional standard of horses on display.”

Held annually at the Royal Welsh Showground in Llanelwedd, the show is one of Europe’s premier agricultural events, celebrating the best of Welsh livestock, rural life and equestrian excellence.
 
This year’s event promises an exciting line-up of competitions, demonstrations and family-friendly activities, attracting thousands of visitors from across the country.

The Supreme Horse Championship takes place on the final day, Thursday, July 24, offering spectators the opportunity to witness some of the finest examples of equine breeding, presentation and performance.
 
Clunes’ involvement adds an extra layer of prestige to what is already a highly anticipated competition.

Cyclists and spectators from all across the UK and beyond will be heading to the scenic county of Ceredigion this June for the Lloyds National Road Racing Championships.
 
This comes as British Cycling and Welsh Government confirm a landmark agreement to host the next three Lloyds National Road Championships in Wales from 2025-‘27. 
 
This forms part of Wales’ commitment to hosting world-class cycling in the coming years, following on from last week's announcement that the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift will both take place in the UK in 2027.
 
Wales has previous experience of hosting major cycling events, having held several stages of the Tour of Britain in recent years.
 
Ceredigion, a county which has produced elite riders such as Josh Tarling and Stevie Williams, will welcome the very best riders on the domestic scene with eyes on winning the much sought after national champion jersey. 
 
The first of the hosts for the Lloyds National Road Championships will be Ceredigion which will stage three days of racing with the time-trial on Thursday, June 26, the circuit race on June 27 and the road race concluding the action on Sunday, June 29.
 
Councillor Clive Davies, Ceredigion County Council Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration, said: "We are delighted that Ceredigion will be hosting the Lloyds National Road Cycling Championships this year.
 
“It will be an opportunity for us to showcase Ceredigion as a fantastic place for cyclists and for tourism, where you will experience fantastic scenery – our coastline, the countryside and mountains.
 
“Ceredigion has a proud record when it comes to producing elite cyclists including Josh Tarling, Stevie Williams and Gruff Lewis and we hope that hosting this event will inspire young cyclists who will be able to see their heroes in action.
 
“Hosting this event will provide significant economic benefits to the county and we look forward to welcoming the Championships to Ceredigion."
 
Jonathan Day, managing director for British Cycling Events, said: “Wales has been a huge supporter of hosting major cycling events, so reaching this agreement with the Welsh Government is a huge milestone in securing host venues for the coveted National Road Championships for the next three years.
 
“The popularity of this event among riders and fans continues to grow, so it is fantastic to be working with partners in Wales where I am sure it will be a huge success.”
 
Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said: "This landmark agreement is further excellent news for Wales, particularly Ceredigion this summer, and testament to our unique offering of world-class cycling terrain.
 
"With this exciting announcement following confirmation that the Tour de France will come to Wales for the very first time in 2027, it helps cement our position as a premier destination for elite cycling events and offers a chance to see British and Welsh riders who will go on to compete in Le Tour and Tour de France Femmes in 2027.
 
“I look forward to both riders and spectators being treated to the opportunity to discover the very best of Welsh cycling landscapes.”
 
British Cycling is the national governing body for cycling in Great Britain. It governs and develops the sport from grassroots participation through to supporting the riders representing Great Britain on the international stage. For more information, visit www.britishcycling.org.uk.   

“The booking from Cat Mountain Fibre Arts is probably a direct result of the tour group that attend every year, and we are delighted to welcome them,” explained Chrissie. “A few of them may also have attended the felt workshop that I organise each year for Rowan Tree Travel, following the show.
 
“Cat Mountain Fibre Arts had originally planned to share a stand with Phoenix Fibre Mill from Colorado, but they have had to pull out due to a family illness. I hope even more American producers will be encouraged to attend in the future.
 
“It’s good for Welsh tourism, as I’m sure they will want to visit other places whilst they in Wales.”
 
Kimberly, who founded her business in 2008, said she is working on a new pattern for the show where she will be exhibiting multi-textured bundles of Fusion Yarn.  
 
She specialises in natural fibre yarns which she hand-dyes in her studio in Fort Garland. Her exclusive colourways are inspired by literature, art, nature and the southern Colorado Rocky Mountains.
 
“I heard about Wonderwool Wales from a customer at The Knitting and Stitching Show many years ago and I am hoping to meet and network with other artists and shop owners,” said Kimberly.    
 
“I love visiting the UK and am always looking for an excuse to come. I will be taking a few days’ holiday in Wales in April.  In particular, I want to visit Hay on the Wye, and hike part of the Offa’s Dyke Path.”  
 
Chrissie revealed that advance ticket sales are ahead of the same time last year and that there will be up to 15 new exhibitors at the show, taking the total to 220 stands, the same as 2024.
 
A special installation to mark the 80th anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day this year, which is being created by a group of knitters in France and across the world, will be a centrepiece at the 19th Wonderwool Wales.
 
The knitters are so enthusiastic that the installation is going to be much bigger than originally envisaged. “It has grown from eight to 10 metres and could well be even larger by the time of the show!” said Chrissie.
 
“People from around the world are knitting panels for the installation which is quite amazing. They previously knitted an 80 metre, 3D wool art depiction of the D-Day landings, which toured the UK, before going off to America in April, and wanted to do another one for VE Day just for Wonderwool.”
 
She joked: “I hope they stop knitting soon otherwise we won’t have enough space in Hall 3 for it!”
 
The VE Day project is being organised by Tansy Forster and her fellow knitters who also headed The Longest Yarn installation for D-Day. More than 1,000 knitters from across the world contributed to that project.
 
Limited tickets are available for the Woolschool Workshops at Wonderwool Wales 2025, including Bringing Eyes to Life, Peg Loom Weaving, Quirky Birds, Dorset Buttons and Art Yarns.
 
The British Coloured Sheep Breeders’ Association will be adding colour to the show by bringing sheep for the first time this year.
 
An award-winning two-day event celebrates all that’s great about Welsh wool and natural fibres, attracting around 6,000 visitors from across the UK and worldwide.
 
Sheep Walk fashion shows, demonstrations and have-a-go sessions hosted by some of the exhibitors are regular features of the popular event.
 
Wonderwool Wales covers everything from the start to the end of the creative process. Exhibits of sheep, raw and hand dyed fibres, yarn for knitting and crochet, embellishments, equipment, dyes and books can be found alongside superb examples of finished textile art, craft, clothing and home furnishings.

Tickets for the show and the Woolschools are available online at www.wonderwoolwales.co.uk . For the latest news about the show, like Wonderwool Wales Ltd on Facebook or follow on Instagram @wonderwoolwales .

Her supportive and encouraging approach ensures an engaging and enjoyable experience for participants of all skill levels.
 
Providing the perfect backdrop for this event, the award winning vineyard prides itself on producing high-quality, locally crafted wines that celebrate the unique flavours of Shropshire.
 
Guests will have a chance to create stunning polymer clay designs - from earrings to necklaces - while sipping on delicious wine and savouring both sweet and savoury nibbles hand made in the vineyard’s café kitchen.
 
Upcoming workshops range from macrame and book binding to Japanese flower arranging and silver clay jewellery.
 
As spaces for the ‘Sip and Sculpt’ evening are limited, early booking is recommended at www.kerryvalevineyard.co.uk/shop/workshops or call: 01588 620627.
 
Kerry Vale Vineyard is a member of MWT Cymru, an independent organisation representing 600 tourism and hospitality businesses across Powys, Ceredigion, Southern Eryri and the Welsh Marches.