All posts by Lisa Baker, Editor, UK Business News

Lisa Baker is an experienced journalist, Owner of Need to See IT Publishing and the Editor of Business in the News. Lisa covers Business, Health, HR and Technology.
Art, Art and Crafts, Crafts, Food & Drink, News

More local artisans set to take over Aber Falls Distillery this weekend

Aber Falls Whisky Distillery has played host to a number of talented, artisan makers at the Abergwyngregyn site, at a trio of unique weekend events this October, and this weekend will see multiple artisans take over for a day at the Visitor Centre.

Dubbed ‘Artisans @ Aber Falls Distillery,’  this weekend sees five local business owners and creators taking over the distillery to display their crafts at stalls within the Visitors Centre.

Local businesses can be found offering a unique mix of artistry, creativity, and handmade goods. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, shopping for unique gifts, or simply looking for a delightful weekend outing, Aber Falls Whisky Distillery is open to visitors.

This follows the two earlier successful events this month, which saw Aled Lewis and Fad Clothing and Embroidery welcome guests to the Visitor Centre.

Aber Falls kicked off its October artisan weekends on 19th October playing host to Aled Lewis, an acclaimed photographer whose breath-taking work is currently featured in Oriel Môn. Aled’s stunning photographs capture the natural beauty of Wales in all its glory, and our visitors enjoyed browsing through his collection, chatting with Aled and, dare we see it, many also took home a piece of North Wales to adorn their walls.

Visitors to the distillery on Sunday 20th October were delighted to find Fad Clothing and Embroidery. Their custom-made clothing and embroidery pieces are crafted with care and attention to detail. From stylish garments to personalised gifts, our visitors enjoyed discovering a wonderful array of high-quality designs that blend tradition with contemporary style.

Sunday, 27th October 2024: A Day of Multiple Artisans

This weekend, the Distillery welcomes a fantastic selection of talented artisans set to take over at Aber Falls Distillery Visitor Centre, where Aber Falls’ third and final October artisan event will be an exciting showcase featuring five incredible local vendors:

  • Eryri Candles: Explore a range of handcrafted, aromatic candles inspired by the beauty of Snowdonia (Eryri). These eco-friendly candles are perfect for bringing warmth and cosiness into your home as the colder months approach.
  • Wonderland Cards/Gifts: Embrace the festive spirit early with Wonderland Cards and Gifts. Featuring a wonderful selection of Christmas-themed items, from handcrafted cards to unique gifts, this is the ideal stop for your holiday shopping.
  • Scribe n Graving: A blend of tradition and modern design, Scribe n Graving specialises in beautifully engraved products and calligraphy pieces. Perfect for personalised gifts or something special for yourself.
  • Silver by Victoria: Discover timeless elegance with Silver by Victoria, offering an exquisite range of handcrafted silver jewellery. Whether you’re looking for a delicate necklace or a bold statement piece, Victoria’s work is sure to impress.
  • Dad’s Cabin: For those who love rustic, handmade wooden creations, Dad’s Cabin brings unique woodcraft items that add a touch of nature to your home decor or make thoughtful gifts.

Carole Jones, General Manager at Aber Falls Distillery, said: “We have always been proud supporters of fellow Welsh businesses, and we’ve really enjoyed hosting a range of them at our site across October. It’s proving to be a fantastic series of weekend events and we’re hoping the success will allow us to put on further events like this and welcome more guests to our distillery in future.”

 

The events will be held from 10am – 4pm across the dates mentioned above at Aber Falls Distillery, Station Road, Abergwyngregyn, Llanfairfechan, LL33 0LB.

Those looking to learn more about Welsh whisky and Aber Falls Whisky can visit the distillery for a guided whisky tour or visit www.aberfallsdistillery.com.

 

Lettings News, News, Retirement

From Uncertainty to Security: How assured tenancy renting has given one couple complete peace of mind

For Michael Broome, 80, and Anna Harvey, 70, the start of 2024 brought a great deal of stress and uncertainty. After 19 years of living in their beloved rented bungalow, they were forced to move when the owner decided to sell the property.

For the couple, both retired from long careers at Sainsbury’s, it was a worrying time. After nearly two decades in the same place, they never imagined they would find another home they loved as much—until they discovered they could rent a one-bedroom apartment at retirement development called Oakhaven in Harwich through My Future Living.

 

“We had been in the same home for so long that we thought it would be impossible to find another place that felt like home,” said Michael. “The news that we had to leave was devastating. At our age, starting over wasn’t something we’d ever planned.”

 

The couple searched for a new home, and after months of uncertainty, they found retirement rentals specialists, My Future Living.

The new apartment they found offered more than just a place to live—it provided a supportive and vibrant community of like-minded retirees, and a modern, comfortable home tailored to their needs. For Michael and Anna, it was the fresh start they never expected but desperately needed.

 

“Moving here has been a dream come true,” said Anna. “We were so worried after losing our bungalow, but My Future Living has given us a new sense of peace and security. The community at Oakhaven is wonderful, and the staff have been so supportive. We’re happier than we’ve been in years.”

 

The transition to My Future Living has been life changing. Not only has the couple found a new home they adore, but they’ve also gained access to amenities and services that make their retirement even more enjoyable. With the development’s vibrant social calendar, well-maintained surroundings, and a host of activities, Michael and Anna have embraced their new lifestyle.

“We feel incredibly lucky to have found this place,” says Michael. “It’s more than just bricks and mortar—it’s a community where we feel part of something.”

 

Anna adds: “We feel like we’re on holiday every day Every day, we go to the sea, whether it’s sitting in the car watching the waves or taking a leisurely stroll along the seaside. The fresh air and the sense of freedom have completely transformed our lives.”

 

The assured tenancy offered by My Future Living guarantees long-term security, providing residents like Michael and Anna with a real sense of stability. For the couple, it has removed the fear of ever being forced to leave their home again, allowing them to fully enjoy their retirement without the worry of an unexpected move.

 

“The moment we moved in, we felt at peace,” said Michael. “Knowing that we have an assured tenancy means we’ll never have to face the uncertainty of moving again. It’s a huge relief.”

The couple have found this new sense of security has finally given them the peace they longed for. They can now enjoy life without the fear of being forced to move.

 

My Future Living offers modern, affordable retirement housing for those seeking a comfortable and secure place to live in their later years. For Michael and Anna, it has been the perfect place to call home, providing them with not just a house but a community and a renewed sense of happiness in their retirement.

Car News, Driving, News

Used UK car market balloons 21% in one year – “unprecedented growth”

Marketcheck, the UK’s most significant source of data on the UK used car market, has today published statistics on the impressive growth of the whole used car market over the past year – the analysis shows notable changes across three key metrics analysed by Marketcheck.

There were 895,537 used car listings in September 2024. This is a 21% increase compared to September 2023, when 739,223 were on the market.

 

Interestingly, sales grew by a slightly higher percentage over the same time period, with a 24% increase. 336,504 used cars were sold in September 2024, compared with 270,002 the previous year in the same month.

 

There is further good news for motorists, with the average price of used cars decreasing by 7.6%, with the average sale price of £17,375.27 falling by £1,325.72 to £16,049.55 last month.

Industry expert, Ian Godbold of IGC Digital, commented: “The growth in used car listings and sales from September 2023 to September 2024 can be attributed to several key factors. A 21% increase in listings reflects a larger supply of vehicles, driven by defleeting activities and more people selling or trading in cars, due to increased new car registrations. Sales saw a rise, fuelled by strong consumer demand and an 8% drop in average prices, making used cars more affordable. This aligns with the broader trend of steady market growth, with a 7.2% increase in Q2 2024, marking the sixth consecutive quarter of expansion. While traditional petrol and diesel cars still dominate the market, a 52.6% surge in used electric vehicle (EV) sales highlights growing interest in sustainable options. In summary, increased supply, competitive pricing, and shifting consumer preferences are driving the expansion of the used car market.”

 

Alastair Campbell, Marketcheck UK, added – “This unprecedented growth in the used car market tells a fascinating story – Marketcheck UK will continue to analyse it using our wealth of information and data on all aspects of the used car industry.”

Cryptocurrency, Finance and Banking

Why Voltomatix is an Industry Leader? (2024)

In the rapidly evolving landscape of online trading, few platforms have made an impact quite like Voltomatix.com. With a focus on innovation, flexibility, and cutting-edge technology, Voltomatix is fast becoming a preferred platform for traders across the globe.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, Voltomatix is offering tools and services that are shaping the future of online trading. Here are eight reasons why Voltomatix is leading the charge.

1. Comprehensive Market Access ✔️

One of Voltomatix’s key strengths is the diversity of markets it offers. Unlike many platforms that specialize in a single asset class, Voltomatix gives traders access to an impressive range of markets, including cryptocurrency, forex, stocks, commodities, indices, and futures. This broad market access allows users to build a diversified portfolio in one place, reducing the need to juggle multiple accounts on different platforms.

In today’s interconnected markets, being able to seamlessly trade a variety of assets is crucial. Voltomatix’s ability to provide a complete trading suite is setting new standards for the industry.

2. AI-Driven Trading Trading Tools ✔️

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the trading world, and Voltomatix has been quick to integrate AI-powered tools into its platform. These tools analyze market trends, automate trades, and offer predictive insights, helping traders make data-driven decisions. By leveraging AI, even less experienced traders can optimize their strategies and potentially achieve better results.

AI trading tools are not just for automation—they also provide deeper insights by analyzing massive amounts of data. This makes Voltomatix a forward-thinking platform that equips its users with the latest technology for success in the markets.

3. Tailored Services for Every Trader ✔️

One of the standout features of Voltomatix is its Tailored Services, which allow traders to customize their experience based on their individual needs and goals. Unlike many platforms that offer a “one-size-fits-all” approach, Voltomatix understands that different traders have different strategies, risk appetites, and market preferences.

Whether you’re a high-volume forex trader or a long-term stock investor, Voltomatix’s tailored services provide personalized support, helping traders optimize their performance. This level of customization is a rarity in the industry and is helping Voltomatix set itself apart from more generic platforms.

4. Flexible Accounts for Every Trader ✔️

Voltomatix caters to traders of all experience levels with its multi-tiered account structure. Offering Basic, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and VIP accounts, Voltomatix ensures that there is an option for every trader—from beginners to professionals.

Each account level offers unique benefits, such as access to better trading conditions, enhanced tools, premium support, and lower fees. This flexibility allows traders to upgrade their accounts as they grow in experience or trading volume, ensuring they always have access to the tools and support they need.

5. Robust Security & Safety Measures ✔️

Security is a top concern for online traders, and Voltomatix has invested heavily in ensuring its platform is as secure as possible. With two-factor authentication (2FA), advanced encryption, and regular security audits, Voltomatix ensures that user data and funds are protected at all times.

In an era where cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated, Voltomatix’s robust security framework provides traders with peace of mind, allowing them to focus on their strategies rather than worrying about the safety of their assets.

6. Seamless Deposits and Withdrawals ✔️

Another area where Voltomatix excels is in its deposit and withdrawal processes. The platform offers multiple payment options, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets, ensuring that traders can easily fund their accounts or withdraw profits.

Voltomatix’s focus on efficiency ensures that deposits are processed almost instantly, and withdrawals are completed quickly, with transparent fees and minimal delays. This smooth transaction process is critical for active traders who need access to funds to capitalize on market opportunities.

7. Educational Resources and Support ✔️

Voltomatix is not just for experienced traders—it also caters to newcomers who are just getting started in the world of online trading. The platform provides a comprehensive educational blog, a FAQ section, and various learning tools to help traders develop their skills and knowledge.

Additionally, Voltomatix’s 24/5 customer support ensures that traders can get help whenever they need it. Whether it’s a technical issue or a trading-related query, the support team is available to assist, ensuring that traders have a smooth experience on the platform.

8. Innovative Trading Technology ✔️

At the heart of Voltomatix’s success is its use of cutting-edge technology. From real-time data analytics to advanced charting tools and automated trading systems, Voltomatix offers a trading environment that is both user-friendly and highly sophisticated. These tools empower traders to make more informed decisions and manage their trades more effectively.

The platform’s technology is constantly being updated to stay ahead of market trends, ensuring that traders always have access to the latest tools and features. This commitment to innovation is a key reason why Voltomatix is leading the future of online trading.

The Bottom Line:

In an industry where competition is fierce, Voltomatix has emerged as a leader by offering unmatched market access, cutting-edge technology, and a user-centric approach. Whether you’re a seasoned trader looking for advanced tools or a newcomer needing guidance, Voltomatix provides everything you need to succeed in today’s fast-paced markets. Its focus on AI-driven tools, tailored services, and security makes it a platform that is truly setting new standards in online trading.

Awards, Hospitality, News

Boutique Cambridgeshire wedding venue recognised by The Nation’s Wedding Awards

Boutique Cambridgeshire wedding venue, Swynford Manor, has been recognised as one of the UK’s most romantic locations to tie the knot by the prestigious Nation’s Wedding Awards.

An exclusive celebration of the wedding industry, The Nation’s Wedding Awards acknowledge those who have gone above and beyond to deliver exceptional customer service, with each finalist nominated and voted for by members of the public.

With over 250 finalists across 28 different categories, Swynford Manor is just one of 10 venues across the UK to be shortlisted for ‘Romantic Wedding Venue of the Year’ and is the only one to be recognised from across the Cambridgeshire region.

Originally built in the 1800s, Swynford Manor is an elegant exclusive-use wedding venue with a striking monochrome interior, plush furnishings and unrivalled views across the Cambridgeshire countryside.

A delightfully different, elegant and enticing space, Swynford Manor is fast becoming one of the region’s most popular and versatile wedding venues – licensed for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies with up to 150 day and 220 evening guests.

News of this latest accolade comes after Swynford Manor scooped the East of England: Romantic Wedding Venue Award at the English Wedding Awards 2024.

 

Sian Parry, Venue Manager at Swynford Manor, said: “The Swynford Manor team work incredibly hard to deliver one-of-a-kind weddings to all of our couples on a weekly basis. We are ecstatic to be recognised for our dedication and commitment – not only by the English Wedding Awards but also The Nation’s Wedding Awards – and this achievement is a real testament to all our hard work. We now look forward to the awards ceremony this November and extend the best of luck to all other finalists.”

 

With a black-tie ceremony to be hosted in Birmingham, The Nation’s Wedding Awards will take place on 11th November 2024.

For more information, visit: https://www.swynfordmanor.com

 

Images: Swynford Manor

Business Finance

Pareto Financial Planning partners with Karman Digital to enhance client engagement and experience

Pareto Financial Planning, the award-winning Manchester based financial services business, today announced that it has collaborated with Karman Digital to further enhance its client engagement and communications. The partnership underscores Pareto’s commitment to a client first approach, a key driver in its rapid growth strategy to date and going forward.

Karman Digital optimises communications workflows utilising a bespoke Financial Advisor HubSpot enabler app called ‘Hatch’ – which seamlessly allows two-way data transfer from Hubspot with both Intelligent Office (IO) and Xplan CRM systems.

Ensuring that communications are optimised creates a perfect platform for considered informative engagement, as Stuart Carswell, Director, Pareto Financial Planning, explains: “Historically many IFA’s have struggled with the complexities of integrating data sets across different platforms and this makes efficient communications a challenge. Our engagement with Karman Digital gives us the ability to overcome these challenges and continue to put our clients first, from the beginning of our relationship.”

Jon Pittham, Director, Karman Digital, said, “We’re delighted to partner with Pareto Financial Planning to implement HubSpot as a key tool for their growth strategy. In this increasingly competitive digital world, clients are demanding better experiences. By streamlining client engagement, enhancing reporting capabilities and optimising their data capabilities, HubSpot will empower Pareto to deliver an exceptional client experience. Additionally, this implementation will support their new business acquisition efforts, focusing on referrals and introducers, ensuring they remain a leading firm and positioned for long-term success in an evolving landscape.”

Pareto Financial Planning has more than £1 billion of assets under management and was named as one of the Top 100 advisers in the UK by the Financial Times in 2024.

Financial Wellbeing

Saving for the Future

Saving for the future can feel overwhelming, especially during the current circumstances and modern financial demands. Whether it’s for a house deposit, a new car, or other milestones, goals may seem out of reach. However, with the right strategies and support, you can build a strong savings plan.

The Challenge of Saving in the Modern World

In today’s consumer-driven world, prioritising saving is difficult. Essentials like food, rent, and utilities consume most of your income, leaving little for long-term planning. Constant ads, online deals, and social media temptations also make it harder to save for the future.

Rising living costs and stagnant wages have also made saving even more difficult, with many feeling they’re just “getting by.” Saving can seem like a luxury, but a methodical approach can still help you build financial resilience over time.

How Your Employer Can Help

Many employers are now offering salary saving schemes to help their employees save more easily and effectively. These schemes allow you to set aside a portion of your salary each month, directly into a savings account or fund, before it reaches your bank account. It’s an automatic and effortless way to save, reducing the temptation to spend your entire income.

Additionally, some salary saving schemes come with added benefits, such as higher interest rates or matching contributions from the employer. These perks can help you grow your savings faster and reach your goals sooner.

Establishing Clear Financial Goals

One of the most effective ways to start saving is by setting clear, achievable goals. Whether it’s for a house deposit, a new car, or a dream holiday, knowing exactly what you’re working towards can motivate you to stick to your plan. 

Start by determining how much you need to save and by when. Once you’ve established your target, break it down into smaller monthly or weekly savings goals.

For example, saving £20,000 for a house deposit over five years means setting aside £333 per month. Breaking it down like this makes the goal more manageable and helps you track progress and adjust your budget.

Budgeting and Cutting Back

Creating a realistic budget is key to managing your money more effectively. Track your income and expenses to understand where your money is going each month. Once you have a clear picture of your spending habits, look for areas where you can cut back. This could involve reducing takeaways, cancelling unused subscriptions, or opting for more cost-effective alternatives in your daily life.

It’s also useful to adopt a ‘pay yourself first‘ mentality. Set up an automatic transfer from your current account to a savings account each time you get paid. This ensures that you’re consistently saving, even before you have a chance to spend the money elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

As we’ve discussed, saving for the future can feel daunting, especially in today’s world. However, by setting clear goals, budgeting, and using tools like salary saving schemes, you can take control of your financial future. Small, consistent efforts will compound over time, helping you stay prepared for whatever comes your way.

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Business Travel, News

UK Business Travellers LOSE 4-8 hours of productivity due to poor planning, say researchers

  • A report from global chauffeur services provider Blacklane looks at how the integration of premium experiences and business travel is essential for productivity

  • 87% of those who find travelling for business stressful claim to lose at least one hour of productive time once they arrive due to the impact of this stress

  • Over 1 in 3 business owners, C-level executives and senior managers lose over half a day of productivity due to travel stress.

15th October 2024: As business travel bounces back, with the sector poised to hit a record spending high by year-end, a new report, “Premium experiences meet productivity: the changing face of travel and work“, uncovers the impact that travel planning is having on business travellers’ productivity.

With 85% of UK businesses looking to maintain or increase business travel spend over the next year, the report, launched by global chauffeur services provider Blacklane, reveals how the dynamics of business travel are evolving in relation to wellness and productivity, and how the evolution of premium amenities has the potential to improve professional’s overall productivity.

Blacklane’s report, “Premium meets productivity: the changing face of travel and work” explores how the current approach to global business travel planning causes executives to lose productive work hours as a result of fragmented journeys: 86% of global participants claimed to lose at least one hour of productive time across their trip, rising to 87% in the UK. Of that, over a third (34%) of UK business travellers reported losing between four and eight hours, equating to a full working day. The impact on UK C-level executives is higher, with 38% losing between four and eight hours of productive work time due to travel stress.

In order to enhance work productivity, up to 90% of business travellers are combining work and leisure, and are seeking out more premium experiences, such as travelling with a chauffeur.

Dr. Jens Wohltorf, CEO and Founder at Blacklane, said: “This report highlights a significant shift in business travel, where enhancing comfort and ensuring safety is not just a perk, but essential for boosting productivity, especially among executives. Understanding these evolving expectations is crucial for the industry and businesses overall to better meet the needs of today’s executive travellers.”

The Rise of Premium Experiences: A Key To Productivity

Over the past year, the majority (59%) of business travellers in the UK have noticed cuts when it comes to travel budgets. For two thirds (62%) of travellers, these cuts have negatively impacted their productivity and performance when travelling for business. Interestingly, this increases to 74% among business owners and 79% among C-level executives. These results highlight an opportunity for travel planners to reconsider priorities in order to optimise productivity on business trips.

Blacklane has a unique perspective on the UK travel market, with millions of kilometres of chauffeured journeys taking place annually across the country. Early mornings, particularly between 6-8am on Mondays and Fridays, are peak times for travel. With these periods being among the most congested and stressful times to travel, ensuring comfort is essential to reducing stress and boosting productivity.

When it comes to business travellers’ priorities, the most important elements of the journey are arriving on time (38%), travelling in comfort (33%) and convenience (30%). Meanwhile, the most sought-after premium amenities when on-the-move are flying premium or business class (38%), WiFi access to allow work on-the-go (37%) and pre-booked private airport transfers (35%). These experiences when travelling for business would not only reduce stress but nine out of ten (89%) believe they would actively contribute towards their productivity and success when travelling for business.

Where Business Meets Leisure

Bleisure is here to stay after millions of Brits took to the beach to work this summer. In Blacklane’s latest report, 86% highlight they have combined business and leisure while travelling for work. Similarly, during trips dedicated to business, almost all (92%) said that they prioritise time for personal activities and relaxation at some point.

When asked what the attraction of such travel is, almost half (45%) said they wanted to explore the locations they visit for business, while 38% said it makes the business side of a trip more exciting. Importantly, three quarters of respondents (75%) believe “bleisure” travel either makes them more productive or does not have a negative impact on work performance. However, there are signs that a stigma around “bleisure” remains, with one in three (33%) believing strict rules around this type of travel will be implemented by business in the next five years.

Blacklane is dedicated to providing a high quality experience that meets the needs of its guests everywhere and ensures that they arrive better. The company offers a portfolio ranging from airport transfers to City-to-City routes connecting metropolitan areas, Chauffeur-by-the-hour services as well as In-city mobility to address all needs and is one of the safest mobility services globally, showcasing 60% less incidents than taxi services.

Interestingly, Blacklane data shows weekend mornings are also a popular time for Blacklane journeys, with early Saturday and Sunday trips comparable to mid-week demand, highlighting the growing trend of blending business with leisure.

James Dow, Blacklane’s UK general manager, comments: “Poorly planned business travel has a stark impact on the UK’s productivity. Traveller wellbeing needs to be carefully protected. Blacklane is supporting travellers to ensure all stages of a journey are high quality which means comfortable, reliable, memorable and most importantly delivering a successful business trip in all senses.”

For more information on Blacklane’s research and information on their routes, please visit www.blacklane.com.

Mid Wales

Enjoy a fun filled October half term at Elan Valley

Elan Valley is gearing up for an action-packed October half term with a range of activities designed to entertain and inspire visitors of all ages.

Nestled in the picturesque heart of Wales, Elan Valley is offering a variety of events from Halloween-themed adventures to a local food, drink, and craft fair, ensuring a memorable experience for all.

Kick off the festivities with the Cambrian Mountains Food, Drink, and Craft Fair on Saturday, October 26, from 10am to 4pm. After a successful debut in 2021, this year’s fair returns with more local flavour and creativity.

As part of the Menter y Mynydd project, funded by the Shared Prosperity Fund and facilitated by Powys County Council, the fair features renowned local producers like Radnor Preserves, MAC Chocolates and Da Mhile Distillery.

Visitors can also enjoy cooking sessions by TV chef and author Nerys Howell and live music from local artists Toby Hay and Gareth Bonello. With new items arriving weekly, the Elan Valley shop will be well-stocked with Cambrian Mountains products.

For those seeking outdoor thrills, the Autumn Adventure Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, October 26 and 27, offers adrenaline-pumping activities and hands-on crafts for all ages.

Presented by Powys County Council events team, this weekend promises to thrill and inspire visitors with a range of exciting challenges and creative opportunities. For more information and to book activities: https://elan-valley.co.uk/events/autumn-adventure-weekend/

Experience a unique slice of history with the Dam Open Day on October 27, from 12pm to 2pm. For just £5 per adult and £1 per child under 18, visitors can explore Pen y Garreg Dam and chat to one of Elan Valley’s knowledgeable rangers.

Booking ahead is recommended for this rare chance to learn about the engineering marvels of Elan Valley, while enjoying breathtaking views from the central tower. Half the proceeds from this event will support Wateraid.

For a Halloween twist, test your bravery during the Spooky Dam Open Days on Tuesday and Wednesday, October 29 and 30, from 1pm to 3.30pm. With entry priced at £5 per adult and £1.50 per child, visitors can embark on a thrilling adventure inside Pen y Garreg Dam, emerging to claim a Halloween reward and continuing through the woods.

Families can get into the Halloween spirit with pumpkin carving on Wednesday, October 30, from 10am to 12pm. At just £5 per child, this activity offers a fun and creative way to celebrate the season.

Elan Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and rich history, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of walking and cycling trails, wildlife watching opportunities and group guided tours of the historic dams and reservoirs.

The visitor centre, complete with a café and shop, provides a perfect starting point for exploring all that Elan Valley has to offer.

To book or find out more information about the October half term activities and other events at Elan Valley, visit https://elan-valley.co.uk/events/ .

Elan Valley Visitor Centre is open form Monday to Sunday, from 10am to 4pm. Parking is free for 60 mins or £3 all day. For more information, please contact Emily Fearn, marketing officer, at Emily.Fearn@dwrcymru.com .

Shrewsbury

Big name artists star at modern contemporary art auction in Shrewsbury

Works by big name artists including David Hockney, Salvador Dali and John Piper, all sold well at a successful modern and contemporary art and design auction in Shrewsbury yesterday(Wednesday).

Hockney’s signed etching and aquatint titled ‘French Shop’ achieved the top price of £4,200 at Halls Fine Art’s auction, after attracting great pre-sale interest.

‘The Frozen Watches of Space Time, from The Conquest of the Cosmos I’ a signed 1974 etching and lithograph by Salvador Dali (1904-1989), which came from a private collection, sold for £3,800, while ‘Felsham’, a signed gouache by John Piper (1903-‘92), found a buyer at £3,000.

Another top performer was Cecil Rochfort D’Oyly-John (1906-‘93) whose oil painting titled ‘Venetian Canal Scene’, sold for £3,200, almost triple its pre-sale estimate.

Sixteen sailing and Venetian works by Adrian Rigby sold for £6,500, including two oils on canvas titled ‘Race to the Needles, Yankee, Britannia and Velsheda’ and ‘Regatta Racers, Lulworth, Westward and White Heather’, which made £1,200 each.

His works are from a former North England art gallery, the contents of which Halls Fine Art is selling over a series of auctions.

The auction also included a collection of seven works by contemporary artist James Hart Dyke, which were painted during a year spent with MI6 to mark the centenary of the British Secret Intelligence Service in 2009.

All but one of the works sold for a combined sum of £2,260, with the top price going to ‘Waiting in the Hotel Room’ which sold for £850.

MI6 invited Dyke behind closed doors and into the secret world of espionage, resulting in a series of paintings and drawings that contributed to the ‘A year with MI6’ exhibition at Mount Street Galleries, London.

Four 1971 prints described as “after Bridget Riley”, born in 1931, sold for £3,230, with the top price of £1,400 going to the work titled ‘Firebird’.

Other leading prices were £1,100 for ‘Girl at a Mirror’ an  oil on board by Bernard Dunstan (1920-2017), which came from a private collection, £900 for ‘Construction’, a mixed media sculptural piece on canvas and board by Sandra Blow (1925-2006), £750 for ‘Cycloid IV, 1966’ a signed screenprint by German artist Peter Schmidt (1931-‘80) and £720 for an oil on canvas titled ‘Winter; by Gerard M. Burns (born.1961).

The contemporary and modern design section, organised by modern design cataloguer Chloe Delpy-Harding, also produced some good results.

A stunning 1920s turned wood lamp attributed to Dutch designer De Nieuwe Honsel sold for £1,350, double its pre-sale estimate and a Danilo Silvestrin for Gunther Lambert Milano range dining table and four chairs made £400.

Other notable prices were £500 for a McIntosh rosewood veneered teak, £460 for Tudric for Liberty enamelled pewter jewellery box and £380 for a pair of Timothy Oulton leather, swing, tub form bar stools.

Halls Fine Art’s paintings specialist Abigail Molenaar said: “Big name artists, such as David Hockey, always draw a crowd and I was delighted with the price achieved for his work ‘French Shop’.

“Works by Salvador Dali, John Piper, Cecil Rochfort D’Oyly-John and Bernard Dunstan all sold well and I was delighted to enhance our record for selling single owner collections.

“Having sold wildlife paintings by Adrian Rigby in the past, it was pleasing to see his sailing and Venetian scenes attract so much interest. It was lovely that so many people attended the sale and stayed until the end.”