Monthly Archives: November 2024

Cloud Platforms, Cyber Attack, Data & Analytics, Tech, Tech Thought Leadership, Technology

Navigating the Future: Cloud Migration Journeys and Data Security

Paul Hossack, Solutions Engineer at Protegrity 

For years, businesses have been chasing innovation with cloud platforms, moving beyond the limitations of legacy technology for greater speed and agility, and sharpening their competitive edge. However, all businesses often face challenges that complicate cloud migration, driving up costs and timelines while exposing the business to data security risks. Ultimately, these challenges block businesses from experiencing the true benefits of cloud integration, and in some cases, lead to significant breaches and regulatory fines.  

Building cloud security solutions: measure twice, cut once 

The speed of cloud migration is most commonly hindered by data security concerns, budget overruns, fragmented implementations, and operational friction. These challenges – affecting the three key stakeholders within the cloud migration strategy of Data and Analytics Leaders, Security Leaders, and IT Leaders – often cause projects to run well beyond their planned timelines and budgets. In many cases, these migrations fail to deliver value because data utilisation is restricted by inadequate security, and extended timelines erode the business’s first-mover advantage. 

To overcome security challenges and protect the cloud databases, teams often adopt a DIY security approach. However, this is not as practical or scalable a solution as it seems. Cloud projects have a reputation for spiralling in scope, much like their ever-expanding namesake —often stretching far beyond the original vision teams had in mind. As the migration project rapidly increases in scale, teams are hampered by the number of security solutions required and soon realise they are investing time and resources into building custom cloud security solutions rather than moving forward with the cloud migration itself.  

To mitigate these issues, data security must be the foundation of every cloud migration project. Security cannot be treated as an afterthought or applied only to certain parts of a migration: instead, it must be unified and consistent across the entire organisation. When businesses prioritise security from the outset, they eliminate risk and operational friction, creating a secure and agile pathway to a competitive advantage in the cloud. Beginning a cloud migration journey with the foundation of data security also enables teams to be more considered and methodical in their approach; adopting the mindset of measure twice, cut once. Further, data security allows businesses to move data seamlessly across platforms, leverage any cloud, and develop cloud-native applications, all while maintaining speed, agility, and confidence. 

Navigating safety obstacles 

One of the major obstacles that businesses face is the increasing complexity of regulatory environments. Most notably, with DORA coming into effect in January 2025, businesses operating in the EU must meet new standards for technological risk management. This regulation requires businesses to demonstrate their ability to prevent, manage, and recover from cyberattacks and other operational disruptions. Failure to comply will potentially lead to considerable fines and reputational damage. Considering this, businesses must not assume that basic cloud provider security tools will be sufficient to effectively secure their sensitive data and meet the demands of regulatory scrutiny. Tools like encryption, identity and access management (IAM), and monitoring/logging provide a foundation, but they are not comprehensive solutions. Unfortunately, over-reliance on these tools can lead to compliance gaps and increased vulnerability. 

To meet the requirements of DORA and future regulations, business leaders must adopt a proactive and reflexive approach to cybersecurity. Strong cyber hygiene practices must be integrated throughout the business, ensuring consistency in how data is handled, protected, and accessed. It is important to note at this juncture that enhanced data security isn’t purely focused on compliance. Modern IT researchers and business analysts have been studying what differentiates the most innovative companies for decades and have identified two key principles that help businesses achieve this: Unified Control and Federated Protection. Unified Control establishes a centralised policy governing all data security measures, ensuring consistency and compliance across all platforms. Federated Protection implements these centralised policies across decentralised environments, allowing for flexibility while maintaining robust security. 

This clearly illustrates that comprehensive data security and governance allows businesses to grow and innovate with confidence: allowing them to take calculated risks with data security and compliance already accounted for. By using unified control and federated protection, teams avoid reinventing cybersecurity policies for every cloud migration project and instead focus their attention on fast, efficient project delivery. 

The data security (r)evolution 

Advancements in data security technologies are reshaping the cloud landscape, enabling faster and more secure migrations. Privacy Enhancing Technologies (PETs) like dynamic data masking (DDM), tokenisation, and format-preserving encryption help businesses anonymise sensitive data, reducing breach risks while keeping cloud adoption fast and flexible. However, as businesses will inevitably adopt multi-cloud strategies to support their processes, they will require interoperable security platforms that can seamlessly integrate across multiple cloud environments. Such platforms will not only enable faster, more secure migration processes but also allow businesses to achieve a rapid return on investment (ROI) that would otherwise be stunted by increasingly complex challenges. Ultimately, those that stay ahead of regulatory trends, while leveraging cutting-edge data security platforms, will be best positioned to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. 

Wales

Chepstow primary teacher moves into dream first home thanks to little-known deposit contribution scheme

Eve Mitchell-Mallon, a reception class teacher from Monmouthshire, has just completed on her dream first home in time for Christmas — thanks to the extension of Barratt David Wilson Homes South Wales’ Key Worker Deposit Contribution Scheme.

Initially only available to the likes of NHS workers, Police Force and Fire Service staff, the scheme has recently been extended to benefit more professions than ever before — including RNLI volunteers, foster carers, Transport for Wales employees, local authority workers and teachers just like Eve.

Since its launch in 2022 to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the National Health Service, the scheme has given support totalling over £1.5 million to 94 key workers and their families in South Wales alone.

For every £20,000 spent on the purchase price of a brand-new Barratt home, the housebuilder will contribute £1,000 towards the deposit — not only helping Eve onto the property ladder, but also allowing her to move closer to her workplace.

Now the proud owner of a brand-new 3-bedroom home at Brunel Quarter in Chepstow, Eve said: “It’s such an achievement to have purchased my first home, as it was something I thought I could only dream of. I couldn’t believe it when I found out that I was eligible for the Key Worker Deposit Contribution Scheme.

“When I first enquired about the scheme, I was nervous as it was the first time I’d seriously considered I could become a homeowner. But my sales advisor, Chelsea, was brilliant and kept me informed every step of the way — making the whole process so smooth!

“I’d highly recommend all key workers explore this opportunity. We can’t wait to settle into our new home and begin the next chapter of our lives — and are already looking forward to spending our first Christmas in the peace and quiet that Brunel Quarter offers.”

Richard Lawson, Sales Director at Barratt Developments South Wales, said: “We are proud to now be offering this scheme to more key workers than ever before up and down the country — and seeing the positive impact it is already having for buyers just like Eve.

“What’s more, we’re also currently offering flooring to buyers as part of the scheme, at no additional cost — worth up to a further 1% of the value of the home.

“And for those worried about making the move in time for Christmas, we can indeed make that a reality at Brunel Quarter — with a range of 3-bedroom homes available to move into before the big day. Simply contact our sales team for further details.”

To find out more about new build homes in South Wales, please visit: www.barratthomes.co.uk/new-homes/wales/south-wales/

News

Sequel to best-selling Wrexham AFC novel to be released amidst Hollywood buzz

FANS of a table-topping football novel creating a buzz in Hollywood are about to receive an early Christmas present.

It’s Always Sunny in Wrexham – The Sequel will be released online and in print this Sunday (December 1).

Written by lawyer-turned-author Andrew Foley Jones, the first book sold thousands of copies and ranked number one on Amazon in the football charts, number two in Sports, and four in Humour.

Such was its success there have been talks with screenwriters and production companies interested in taking the tale of one fanatical Red Dragons supporter and his weird and wonderful journey to the big screen.

Andrew, who hails from Prestatyn and is a director of Mackenzie Jones Solicitors – based in St Asaph, Menai Bridge and Chester – says the response to the sequel has already been positive and hopes this second offering will help him achieve his literary goals.

“The reaction to It’s Always Sunny in Wrexham was incredible, beyond anything I expected,” said Andrew, partner to Sarah and Dad to Ianto and Iolo.

“As well as discussions with producers in the UK and America we are in talks about a podcast – which would be presented by a prominent sportsman and comedian and myself – and an audiobook.

“It is quite surreal, and the interest seemed to rise in tandem with the club itself, as there were a lot of sales in the US and overseas – I even had people from all over the world coming over wanting to meet up for a photo and an autograph!

“To top it off a script has been written by an award-winning screenwriter and talks are taking place about turning the first book and the sequel in a TV series and a film – incredible.”

Having received rave reviews, featured in the popular Fearless in Devotion podcast, the New York Times and major sports publications – as well as being interviewed for the mega award-winning hit reality show Welcome to Wrexham, fronted by owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney – and with celebrities including BAFTA-winning broadcaster and author Dr Chris van Tulleken singing his praises, Andrew is proud of how he hilariously captured the global mania surrounding the Cae Ras outfit.

Written in the first person, the best-selling story portrayed a fanatical, self-titled fan who woke from a 10-year coma in 2030 to find Wrexham AFC were under the stewardship of two A-list superstars.

Featuring a host of well-known local characters, former players, and world-famous actors – Hugh Jackman was chairman of arch-rivals FC Romans of Chester – the book caught the imagination and saw readers clamour for more.

“Well, you have to give the people what they want!” laughed Andrew, who has supported the club for 45 years and represented them legally on a voluntary basis, pre-takeover and when the acquisition took place in 2021.

“In this edition – and there are already plans for a third instalment – our protagonist is still getting to grips with the huge political, social and technological changes that took place while he was in a coma, and the fact Wrexham AFC are now in the Premier League and a massive international brand.

“He’s now mixing in celebrity circles, but all is not good, there has been a pandemic, corruption, wars, environmental disasters and even an alien invasion which sees him collaborate with ALF (Alien Life Form), star of the 1980s sitcom, and an array of other well-known faces.”

He added: “Anyone who liked the first book will love the second as things become even crazier; Gordon Ramsay is now head chef at The Turf, Wrexham is a metropolis with a skyscraper skyline, Elon Musk, Donald Trump and a host of famous people frequent the nightlife, and everyone hates us because we are winning.

“As it unfolds, a villain looms large – after all, in super-hero scripts, there’s always a bad guy – so here, there’s people out there trying to derail the fairytale, things become even more bizarre, particularly when Madonna tries to buy Prestatyn Town FC and Trump and Musk also try to replicate our success with local teams.

“It’s been so much fun to write, and I’ve already started the third novel as this one ends on a cliffhanger – I hope people enjoy it as they did the first, and come with me on this completely ridiculous, yet fun and entertaining, adventure!”

To buy a copy of It’s Always Sunny in Wrexham – The Sequel and its predecessor, visit Amazon.co.uk: Andrew Foley Jones: books, biography, latest update and check out your local book store from December 1.

News, Tech, Technology

Revolutionise Sustainable & Flexible Projection with Panasonic VMZ7ST Series

New series of short-throw projectors increases installation flexibility and delivers bright, sharp visuals for corporate and immersive museum environments.

Bracknell, UK. November 2024 – Panasonic Connect Europe has announced the VMZ7ST Series of short-throw LCD projectors, revolutionising sustainable, flexible projection for corporate and immersive museum environments. Based on Panasonic’s VMZ82 Series of compact projectors, the PT-VMZ7ST (7,000lm) and PT-VMZ6ST (6,200lm) are Panasonic’s most powerful fixed, short-throw LCD laser projectors yet.

Short-throw lens offers unrivalled flexibility
Panasonic’s VMZ7ST Series offers increased installation flexibility, especially where space is limited. It features a short-throw lens ratio of just 0.797-1.01:1, and a 1.2x optical zoom and wide-range V/H lens shift, enabling it to project a 100-inch image from approximately 1.72 m (5.6 ft). Within immersive museum experiences, this minimises any visitor shadows – even when viewing close-up. Users in corporate environments can also be confident that any projected presentations are not disrupted.

When installed in high, difficult-to-reach areas, the VMZ7ST Series is easy to set-up, reducing valuable installation time. Panasonic’s Powered Focus allows the focus to be easily readjusted to accommodate various room sizes, which is especially useful in sports simulators, where the focus may need to be frequently adjusted to keep up with player action.

Panasonic’s Angle Monitor function enables the projection tilt angle to be visualised remotely, its geometric correction functions enable the VMZ7ST Series to be positioned anywhere it’s needed, for projecting onto various surface shapes and sizes.

Class-leading projection in bright spaces
The VMZ7ST Series features Daylight View Basic technology and colour management, allowing image quality to be adjusted based on ambient lighting, and vivid colours to be produced through the tweaking of the hue, saturation, and value. This is especially useful in bright, corporate environments.

Environmentally friendly design
Sustainability is at the core of the VMZ7ST Series’ design. It utilises Panasonic’s Auto Power On function, starting projection upon signal detection and minimising continuous projector operation. This increases power efficiency by nearly 53% (lm/W) compared to competitor models, without compromising brightness. The VMZ7ST Series’ delivers 20,000 hours of maintenance-free, continuous projection, significantly reducing costs. To minimise waste, the ECO Filter can be washed and reused twice, whilst 56% of the chassis is made from recycled resins.

“The VMZ7ST Series of projectors offers a cost-effective solution for immersive museum experiences and corporate environments, delivering class-leading brightness and installation flexibility that minimises set-up and maintenance costs where budgets are tight. The VMZ7ST Series takes sustainable projection for short-throw projectors to new levels, whilst delivering bright, sharp visuals that users have come to expect from Panasonic,” comments Hartmut Kulessa, European Marketing Manager at Panasonic Connect Europe.

The VMZ7ST Series will be available from CY2025 Q1.

For more information, please click: https://eu.connect.panasonic.com/gb/en/projectors/pt-vmz7st

News

North Wales college strikes gold at UK skills Olympics

COLEG CAMBRIA was represented by the largest team of apprentices and foundation skills learners from Wales at this year’s WorldSkills UK finals.

And once again the college – based in Deeside, Wrexham, Northop and Llysfasi – achieved medals and was highly commended in a raft of categories, including:

Welding: Zac Winn (Gold)

Aircraft Maintenance: Robert Jones (Silver), Aiden Williams (Bronze), and James Prescott (Highly Commended)

Metal Fabricator: Mark Wright (Silver), Jimmy Smith (Bronze)

Beauty Therapist: Darcy Watson (Silver), Lilia Jones (Highly Commended)

CNC Milling: Tomas Ankers (Highly Commended)

It was an “incredible return” for the 17-strong group as more than 400 finalists from across the UK competed in 40 skills categories.

Cambria’s Skills Competition Lead Robert Jones said he was “immensely proud” of the team, adding: “They were all amazing and performed so well under pressure, showing dedication, skill and passion for their work.

“As a college we are known for developing young talent in partnership with industry leaders from across north east Wales and beyond, and this year was no different.

“A huge thank you and congratulations to every one of them, and to the lecturers and staff who worked so hard to get them into this position, and those mentors, training officers and judges – notably Jamie Mapp-Jones, Rosie Boddy, Caleb Maxfield, Adam Youens, Tony Commins and Ruth Payton – who also represented Coleg Cambria on the national stage.”

The WorldSkills UK finals took place at colleges, independent training providers and universities across Greater Manchester, including Bolton, Rochdale, Wigan and Leigh, and Oldham.

The other learners and apprentices proudly representing Cambria and local employers were Kleo Pepa, Kieran O’ Loan, Hannah Back (all Airbus UK/Coleg Cambria), Jamie Duncan, Stephen Jackson, Michael Lewis, Lewis Higgins, and Bartosz Dobrzynski.

Skills Minister Jacqui Smith congratulated everyone who participated in this year’s “magnificent competition”.

“Each of you has showcased the exceptional talent and promise of our future workforce,” she said.

“Competitions like WorldSkills UK are so important in nurturing talent, providing a vital platform for young people to develop the skills they need to seize opportunities and achieve growth.”

Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive of WorldSkills UK, added: “Congratulations to this year’s medal winners.  Being named the best in your skill is a tremendous achievement and reflects the dedication of teachers in our colleges, universities and training providers, who are the bedrock of our skills systems across the UK.”

Visit www.worldskillsuk.org for more on WorldSkills UK.

For more news and information from Coleg Cambria, visit www.cambria.ac.uk.

News

North Wales college strikes gold at UK skills Olympics

COLEG CAMBRIA was represented by the largest team of apprentices and foundation skills learners from Wales at this year’s WorldSkills UK finals.

And once again the college – based in Deeside, Wrexham, Northop and Llysfasi – achieved medals and was highly commended in a raft of categories, including:

Welding: Zac Winn (Gold)

Aircraft Maintenance: Robert Jones (Silver), Aiden Williams (Bronze), and James Prescott (Highly Commended)

Metal Fabricator: Mark Wright (Silver), Jimmy Smith (Bronze)

Beauty Therapist: Darcy Watson (Silver), Lilia Jones (Highly Commended)

CNC Milling: Tomas Ankers (Highly Commended)

It was an “incredible return” for the 17-strong group as more than 400 finalists from across the UK competed in 40 skills categories.

Cambria’s Skills Competition Lead Robert Jones said he was “immensely proud” of the team, adding: “They were all amazing and performed so well under pressure, showing dedication, skill and passion for their work.

“As a college we are known for developing young talent in partnership with industry leaders from across north east Wales and beyond, and this year was no different.

“A huge thank you and congratulations to every one of them, and to the lecturers and staff who worked so hard to get them into this position, and those mentors, training officers and judges – notably Jamie Mapp-Jones, Rosie Boddy, Caleb Maxfield, Adam Youens, Tony Commins and Ruth Payton – who also represented Coleg Cambria on the national stage.”

The WorldSkills UK finals took place at colleges, independent training providers and universities across Greater Manchester, including Bolton, Rochdale, Wigan and Leigh, and Oldham.

The other learners and apprentices proudly representing Cambria and local employers were Kleo Pepa, Kieran O’ Loan, Hannah Back (all Airbus UK/Coleg Cambria), Jamie Duncan, Stephen Jackson, Michael Lewis, Lewis Higgins, and Bartosz Dobrzynski.

Skills Minister Jacqui Smith congratulated everyone who participated in this year’s “magnificent competition”.

“Each of you has showcased the exceptional talent and promise of our future workforce,” she said.

“Competitions like WorldSkills UK are so important in nurturing talent, providing a vital platform for young people to develop the skills they need to seize opportunities and achieve growth.”

Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive of WorldSkills UK, added: “Congratulations to this year’s medal winners.  Being named the best in your skill is a tremendous achievement and reflects the dedication of teachers in our colleges, universities and training providers, who are the bedrock of our skills systems across the UK.”

Visit www.worldskillsuk.org for more on WorldSkills UK.

For more news and information from Coleg Cambria, visit www.cambria.ac.uk.

News

New Panasonic All-In-One LED Display: Exceptional Performance, Usability and Flexibility Out-Of-The-Box

Users can take advantage of AVoIP connectivity, high-quality visuals, simple installation and set-up, and unrivalled Panasonic expertise

Bracknell, UK. November 2024 – Panasonic Connect Europe unveiled its first LED display, the newest addition to its lineup of professional displays. Ideal for higher education, in classrooms and university lecture theatres or in corporate environments, Panasonic’s 110-inch TL-110AD12AW LED display delivers outstanding performance and is easy to configure out-of-the-box, providing greater installation flexibility and connectivity.

The all-in-one LED display benefits from Panasonic’s long, unrivalled industry knowledge and expertise of IP-based connectivity and configurability, and what customers require from a professional display. It features a brightness of 700 cd/m2 and a pixel pitch of 1.27 mm, delivering high quality images with no colour deviation, even in bright environments.

Unlocking the Full Potential of AVoIP
In a first for an LED display, Panasonic’s 110-inch model features multiple Intel® SDM slots, allowing for seamless AVoIP integration with various proprietary or third-party function boards. This enables customers to unlock the full potential of AVoIP, enabling increased communication and collaboration between multiple devices in different locations.

“We are seeing growing demand for large-screen displays that deliver high quality visuals and are easy to use and install. Most traditional LED displays have complex systems that are difficult and time consuming to operate, whilst not being compatible with other devices. Our all-in-one Intel® SDM-enabled 110-inch LED display addresses these pain points, providing increased interoperability as customers look for complete, holistic, IP-based solutions that meet complex project requirements,” said Hartmut Kulessa, European Marketing Manager for Visual System Solutions at Panasonic Connect Europe.

Increasing Sustainability and Efficiency
Panasonic’s LED display features an eco-friendly design, and proprietary Average Picture Level (APL) technology, that controls brightness and power to suit the installation environment, enabling it to operate continuously whilst reducing power consumption. It is equipped with burn-in prevention and correction technology to address issues that can occur when images are displayed for long periods, ensuring high-quality visuals at all times.

The front access design of Panasonic’s LED display makes it easy to replace or repair parts when required. Its compatibility with remote managed services enables its status to be monitored in real time. This allows any maintenance to be scheduled in advance, delivering peace-of-mind and minimising unnecessary downtime.

Flexible Installation Out-of-the-Box
Panasonic’s 110-inch all-in-one LED display is lighter and thinner than conventional displays, increasing ease-of-installation. It is shipped semi-assembled, reducing set up time. With mounting hardware included, it can be easily installed and used immediately by connecting it to a playback device with an HDMI™ cable. When utilising Panasonic’s IP-based connectivity, cabling is significantly reduced, further increasing scalability.

The 110-inch LED display will be available from CY2025 Q1.

For more information, please click: https://eu.connect.panasonic.com/gb/en/professional-displays/tl-110ad12a

News from Wales

Christmas events in Mid Wales to put you in the festive spirit

Mid Wales is brimming with Christmas events for the whole family this year. From festive fairs and carol singing to creative crafts and delightful afternoon teas, there’s something to spark joy for everyone.

 

Father Christmas will also be making special appearances across the region!

 

MWT Cymru (Mid Wales Tourism) has rounded up some festive events to inspire your imagination and get you in the Christmas spirit, and there’s plenty more to be found on www.visitmidwales.co.uk, with cosy places to stay, so you can make a night of it.

 

In Ceredigion

 

Step into a magical Christmas at Silver Mountain this December
https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/a-magical-christmas-at-the-silver-mountain-p1846711

 

Based just outside of Aberystwyth, this popular attraction is undergoing a serious transformation to prepare for the return of their most beloved visitor, Santa Claus.

 

Running on selected dates from December 7 to 23, there will be something for the whole family to enjoy at this magical winter wonderland.

 

Santa and his elves have transformed Silver Mountain’s Victorian mine buildings into their workshops and a grotto. Visitors are being invited to join the elves for an enchanting walk through the factory to see where the magic happens and hear about what needs to be done for the big day.

Booking is essential and tickets are selling fast. Book a slot online at  www.silvermountainexperience.co.uk/festive/ to avoid disappointment.

Aberystwyth set to host Wales’ first ever POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride

https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/the-polar-express-train-ride-p2236831

 

This Christmas, Polar Productions, in conjunction with Rail Events Inc., are bringing a truly magical live show to The Vale of Rheidol Railway.

 

This fully immersive theatre experience recreates the famous Christmas movie as it celebrates its 20th anniversary. The POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride will be bringing the characters to life as it captures the joyful festive tale, as well as giving families the opportunity to travel by steam train on the spectacular Vale of Rheidol Railway.

 

Tickets are on sale now. Trains depart from Saturday, November 30 and run until Christmas Eve.

Cardigan Lantern Parade Festival of Light
https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/cardigan-giant-lantern-parade-p2060101

 

The Cardigan Lantern Parade Festival of Light on December 6 is set to be a vibrant celebration, with this year’s theme inspired by the beautiful River Teifi.

 

As the parade flows through the streets, a mesmerising river of pyramid lanterns will light up the path. Everyone is encouraged to join in, whether by creating their own lanterns to contribute to the parade or simply coming to enjoy the spectacle.

 

The parade will leave Pendre at 7pm accompanied by musicians and a fireworks display will take place around 8pm.

 

Llanerchaeron Christmas Fair
https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/llanerchaeron-christmas-fair-p2010561

 

From December 6 to 8, enjoy a fairytale Christmas at Llanerchaeron near Aberaeron. Listen to carol singers, visit Santa’s grotto, enjoy the sustainable seasonal decorations, wander around the lake and grounds and discover beautiful Christmas present ideas and artisan treats at the array of local stallholders throughout the site.

 

Santa will be there on Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 3pm and can be found in the gardener’s bothy. No booking required. This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Christmas afternoon tea at Nanteos Mansion
https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/christmas-afternoon-tea-nanteos-mansion-p2239751

Nanteos Mansion, a stunning Georgian country house turned hotel near Aberystwyth, provides a secluded and magical setting for Christmas celebrations.

 

Every Wednesday and Sunday from December 4 to 22 and on Monday, December 23, Christmas afternoon tea is available from 12pm to 3pm, costing £30 per person. Festive teas will also be available at 1pm on Christmas Eve.

 

Nanteos’ Christmas Afternoon Tea includes a selection of seasonal homemade sandwiches, festive cakes, savouries and scones, all washed down with unlimited cups of tea or coffee and a glass of mulled wine.

 

Why not combine afternoon tea with a historical guided tour of Nanteos on Wednesdays? Check out other Christmas events at https://www.nanteos.com/events .

 

In Powys

 

Unique Christmas musical treat at Gregynog Hall
https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/festive-chamber-gregynog-p2210441

 

A Christmas concert with a difference is being hosted at Gregynog Hall in Tregynon, near Newtown, on Tuesday, December 3.

Quindici Chamber Choir is teaming up with Gregynog’s resident orchestra Sinfonia Cymru to put together a unique programme of festive favourites, combining some of Wales’ finest chamber music performers with choral classics and sing along carols.

 

The concert starts at 7pm in Gregynog’s Music Room. Tickets cost £12 for adults and £5 for under 16s and are available at Sinfonia Cymru’s website www.sinfonia.cymru .

 

Find all Gregynog’s events at https://gregynog.org/whats-on/, including Breakfast with Santa, festive afternoon teas and Carols in the Courtyard with Monty Folk.


A Dickensian Christmas at Powis Castle, Welshpool
https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/a-dickensian-christmas-powis-castle-p2244791

Step back in time as the first floor of Powis Castle transforms into a charming Victorian wonderland, inspired by A Christmas Carol.

 

Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the 19th century, where flickering candles, evergreen garlands and classic holiday scenes bring the spirit of Christmas to life.

 

A visit to Powis Castle this season promises a heartwarming journey filled with nostalgia and holiday cheer. This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

 

Breakfast with Father Christmas is also being served at the castle on selected dates. Booking essential.


Festive Afternoon Teas are back at Kerry Vale Vineyard
https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/festive-afternoon-tea-at-kerry-vale-vineyard-p1844301

 

Between now and December 18, afternoon tea at Kerry Vale Vineyard Cafe near Montgomery takes on an extra sprinkle of magic over the festive season. Delicate finger sandwiches are elevated for the festive period, while hand-crafted sweet treats come adorned with charming designs and seasonal flavours.

 

Perfect for celebrating the Christmas spirit with friends and family. Festive Afternoon Tea costs £30 per person and you can add a glass of mulled wine for £3 or English Sparkling Wine for £6 extra. Booking is essential and 48 hrs notice is required.

 

A Christmas garland workshop is also being held at Kerry Vale Vineyard on December 10: https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/christmas-garland-workshop-with-jane-pugh-kerry-vale-vineyard-p2228561

Christmas Grotto at Porth Farm, Caersws
https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/christmas-grotto-at-porth-farm-p2211991

 

Venture through the Christmas Grotto, meet Santa and receive a gift at Porth Farm, Caersws. Visitors can also browse the mini-Christmas market, purchase from the Christmas Tree Pop Up Shop and enjoy refreshments from the café!

Christmas Winter Wreath Making Workshop at RSPB Ynys-hir.
https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/christmas-winter-wreath-making-workshop-at-rspb-ynys-hir-p2233541

 

Celebrate the season at RSPB Ynys-hir, Eglwys-fach, near Machynlleth.
by making your own unique Christmas or Winter wreath, woven from willow and decorated with a variety of natural materials and foliage foraged from the locality.

 

A truly sustainable seasonal decoration and all materials, tools, tuition and light refreshments included in the £36 per person price. Workshops are on December 4 and 7.

 

Santa Specials and more at Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway

 

All aboard the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway for Santa Specials from December 7 to 23, which offer festive fun and wintery steam train trips with Father Christmas. All trains depart from Llanfair Caereinion and pre-booking is essential.

Enjoy a Special Festive Afternoon Tea onboard the railway’s vintage steam train for one day only, departing Llanfair Caereinion on Friday, December 20 at 1pm.

 

Take a post-Christmas journey with loved ones, complete with mince pie and a festive drink, in steam heated carriages from December 28 to 30. Tickets are available now at https://wllr.org.uk/your-visit/whats-on/ .

 

Winter Woodland Grotto at Elan Valley
https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/winter-woodland-grotto-elan-valley-p2247341

 

Children will delight at meeting Santa Claus who will warmly welcome them to his grotto in the Elan Valley. They will cherish their gift and photo and will be excited to join his team of merry elves to make festive decorations and create reindeer food.

 

They will also love tucking into hot chocolate and gingerbread from Elan Valley’s Cafe. Then it’s off outside to find Elfie, Santa’s naughty helper who has got lost in Cnwch Woods. Follow the trail and seek them out! Available on selected dates in December at the cost of £12.50 per child.

In Southern Eryri (Snowdonia)

Pop-up Corris Crafts Christmas Shop and Deli

 

A pop-up craft shop has opened in the café at Corris Craft Centre near Machynlleth. The shop, which opens daily from 10am to 4pm until December 22, hosts a collection of unique handmade crafts designed and made at the centre.

 

Handmade chocolates from Chocablock, hand carved candles from The Candle Studio, a collection of artisan gin from Dyfi Distillery, smoking dragons and pottery from Quarry Pottery and handcrafted organic furniture from Taran Eco Designs are on offer.

 

Danny Cameron, Corris Caverns director, said: “After a busy summer season, many of the craftspeople down tools and take a well-earned winter rest. Corris Café opens every day, so this year we have decided to host a special Corris Crafts Christmas shop to allow our winter visitors to enjoy many of the unique crafts made here at the Corris Craft Centre.”

 

Barmouth Christmas Lights Switch on
https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/barmouth-christmas-lights-switch-on-p1828101

 

On December 5, Barmouth Christmas Lights will be switched on by the mayor surrounded by carol singers and onlookers joining in to celebrate the start of the festive season.

 

Church bells will ring out as people head towards the shops that have opened late especially for the occasion, stopping to listen to the famous Batala Bermo Samba Band and visiting the local Emergency Services that join in along the high street.

 

Mulled wine, toasted marshmallows, sweets, festive tipples and more…. every shop offers a warm welcome to everyone who wishes to browse their fantastic range of goods.

 

Father Christmas awaits the children and many pubs and hotels offer live music, adding to what has become a very special night in the lives of all those who visit and live in the town.

Santa Specials at Corris Steam Railway
https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/santa-specials-corris-steam-railway-p2028071

On December 7 and 8, enjoy a train ride along the picturesque Dulas Valley to meet Santa and his helpers in his grotto. There will be a quality present from Santa, soft drinks and sweets for all children and warming mulled juice and mince pies for all adults.

 

Santa Special Trains at Bala Lake Railway
https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/bala-lake-railway-santa-specials-p1743031

Santa has once again accepted the invitation to visit Llanuwchllyn on the weekend of December 7 and 8. Special trains will be hauled by two of Bala Lake Railway’s steam locomotives, suitably decorated for the occasion.

 

All trains depart from Llanuwchllyn Station on a journey down the line to Santa’s grotto where children will meet him and receive a gift. Adults receive a mince pie and a glass of sherry or a hot drink. Advance booking essential.

Festive fun at Talyllyn Railway, Tywyn
https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/carol-train-talyllyn-railway-p1812741

 

On December 21, visit Talyllyn Railway for a Carol Train – an evening of festive singing and live music, guaranteed to get passenger in the Christmas spirit.

 

A winning combination of steam trains, festive baps, mulled wine and mince pies as passengers enjoy a night of song on this musical adventure, full of Christmas spirit.

 

The train leaves at 7pm, with mulled wine and mince pies served at Rhydyronen and returns to Wharf where there will be live music and ‘festive baps’ for all.

 

Santa is also paying a visit to Talyllyn Railway for its ‘Santa Special Trains’ from December 21-24. Mischievous elves will ensure that adults have a mulled wine, juice for the children and a mince pie or cookie to enjoy on your journey back to Wharf.

 

Following the festive journey, passengers can visit Santa and they might receive a gift: https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/whats-on/santa-train-talyllyn-railway-p1812641

For more events in Mid Wales, this Christmas and all year round, check out www.visitmidwales.co.uk

News from Wales

Thousands celebrate festive fun at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Winter Fair

This week’s Royal Welsh Agricultural Winter Fair was a resounding success, attracting thousands of visitors to the Llanelwedd showground for two days of festive celebrations, competitions and industry showcases.

 

The second day of the fair, on Tuesday, was a vibrant mix of activity, with exhibitors, traders and visitors immersing themselves in an extensive programme of competitions, demonstrations, auctions and shopping.

 

The event spanned a larger area than ever before, filled with a diverse array of food and retail stalls.

 

More than 2,000 school children and students attended across the two days, taking advantage of free entry for organised primary and secondary school trips and reduced rates for further and higher education groups.

 

This year’s primary school theme, “Ein Dŵr/Our Water,” offered an engaging educational experience. Workshops led by Welsh Water, The Army, educator Phillip Cressey and The Big Science Project captivated Year 5 and 6 pupils, while teaching resources on the role of water in agriculture were made available through Twinkl and the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society (RWAS) website.

 

Tom Pemberton, popular YouTube star of ‘Tom Pemberton’s Farm Life’, presented certificates to participating schools and shared insights about water use on his dairy farm. Pupils enthusiastically engaged with him, asking about his farming journey.

 

Tom also joined Neil Fenn and Stewart Williams of Castell Howell to judge the sausage competition in the Meat Products section, before experiencing the bustling livestock auctions and meeting fans at the Show Shop.

 

Livestock competitions took centre stage, with record-breaking entries, particularly in the sheep section.

The winners were: Supreme cattle champion: ‘Twilight’, a Limousin-sired heifer bred by Tecwyn Jones of Caer Gwrli, Anglesey, sold for £8,500 to local butcher Arwyn Morgans of Morgans Family Butchers, Builth Wells.

 

Supreme sheep champion was a pair of Beltex lambs from E. F. Gittoes & Son of Bryndu Farm, Llandefalle, Brecon, which sold for £650. Pig Championships: Both single and pair titles were awarded to Pietrain cross Welsh pigs owned by Myrddin James of Dolaeron, Ceredigion, with the single selling for £400 and the pair for £350.

 

Supreme horse champion was Coedwigddu Princess Rosia, a Section D Welsh Cob, from S. James of Brynlluan, Carmarthenshire and handled by Gareth Lapping.

 

The Best Overall Tradestand Award was presented to Wales Perfumery.

 

The event’s success is credited to the dedication of the organising committee, exhibitors, traders, volunteers and stewards, along with the generous support of sponsors.

 

Headline sponsors HSBC, Welsh Government and Dunbia, alongside others, played a vital role in making this year’s Winter Fair a triumph.

 

“This year’s event has been a huge success,” said director, William Hanks. “Despite severe weather leading up to the fair, visitor numbers have been strong and there has been a fantastic sense of camaraderie on the showground.

 

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to this event’s success. From our volunteers and stewards to the exhibitors and sponsors, your support ensures the Winter Fair remains a cherished tradition. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to next year’s events.”

Book Releases

Yuri Milner’s Eureka Manifesto Five-Step Plan to Embrace Humanity’s Shared Mission

 

Earlier in his career, Yuri Milner saw immense success investing in internet giants like Facebook. Having generated impressive returns, in 2012, he then signed the Giving Pledge. This commitment will see him pour at least half of his lifetime wealth into philanthropic causes.

Many of the causes Milner funds are scientific projects that he has co-founded. The former theoretical physicist has focused on science-led projects, many of which provide a direct route to help us understand our Universe.

In 2021, Milner published his ideas on humanity’s mission to understand the Universe in a personal manifesto. The short book, Eureka Manifesto: The Mission for Our Civilization, details our place in the Universe, the reason humanity might exist, and how we can come together to understand the inner workings of the world we share.

We’re Earth’s Only Species Capable of Understanding the Universe

In Eureka Manifesto, Milner explains that humans are the only species on Earth who can explore the Universe. This is why understanding how it works is likely to be our mission. Everyone on the planet can share in this mission.

Milner explains that this is important because without a collective mission, our species is unlikely to thrive in the future. We may not even survive.

For humanity to embrace its shared mission, Milner lays out a five-step plan that we can follow:

Yuri Milner’s Five-Step Plan

  1. Invest more funds into fundamental science and space exploration. Milner has started this work through his Breakthrough Initiatives. These five space science programmes have set out to peel back the veil between our world and potential life in the wider Universe.
  2. Leverage artificial intelligence to accelerate scientific progress. Now that AI is becoming more accessible, we can use it to advance our understanding of the Universe.
  3. Treat scientists with the acclaim that we treat celebrities with. Milner has already improved the celebration of researchers making groundbreaking discoveries through his Breakthrough Prize. Every year, the latest high-profile scientists win major cash prizes and celebrate at the “Oscars of Science” prize ceremony.
  4. Provide more education on the Universal Story. The Universal Story documents the history of everything we know. When we share it with — and inspire — the next generation, we put them on the path to write the next chapters.
  5. Foster a culture where we can all contribute to our shared knowledge. While only a few scientists will make the discoveries that change our lives forever, we can all play a part in creating a world where scientific thinking flourishes.

The Consequences of Ignoring or Embracing Our Mission

Milner’s proposed collective goal to understand the Universe applies to all cultures and nations, focusing on the idea that our future lies beyond Earth.

If we don’t accept our mission to understand our Universe, we may leave humanity vulnerable to extinction events. Anthropogenic climate change or a collision with a large asteroid could mark the end of our species.

However, when we embrace our mission, we may be able to become a galactic civilisation. Although humans haven’t yet travelled further than the Moon, the latest space programmes could see this change within 20 years. For example, NASA plans to send astronauts to Mars potentially by the 2030s.

Embrace our mission, and we may also achieve technological progress that saves our species. For example, with technology, we may be able to cure diseases that we haven’t yet developed treatments for, solve energy scarcity issues, and better combat climate change.

Read or download Eureka Manifesto to learn more about our collective mission.

About Eureka Manifesto Author Yuri Milner

Yuri Milner has always been fascinated by the world’s biggest, most profound questions, such as “Are we alone in the Universe?” and “Why are we here?” As a child, he was inspired by great minds like Marie Curie, Stephen Hawking, and Galileo Galilei.

After working as a particle physicist for 10 years, Milner turned his hand to entrepreneurship and philanthropy. Today, he supports scientists on their missions to make pioneering discoveries. His support has taken the form of the Breakthrough Initiatives, the Breakthrough Prize, the Breakthrough Junior Challenge, and Tech For Refugees.