All posts by Lisa Baker

Manufacturing

DW Windsor raises the bar with futureproofed flagship luminaire

British manufacturer upgrades range of functional street lighting solutions, offering increased performance and improved efficiency for greater savings

HODDESDON, UK, 13th May 2022 – Leading exterior lighting solutions provider DW Windsor has announced significant performance enhancements for its flagship functional luminaire, Kirium Pro. Designed to support Local Authorities as they work to lower energy consumption and cut carbon emissions, the upgrades are set to also offer significant savings to taxpayers.

Featuring DW Windsor’s latest generation LED technology, Kirium Pro has been re-engineered to deliver increased performance of over 51,900lm, and market-leading efficiency, up to 192lm/W, resulting in lower whole-life costs and savings of around £50 per light point over ten years.

Kirium Pro is DW Windsor’s most comprehensive range of LED street lighting luminaires. Available in five distinct sizes with 23 standard Diamond+ optical distributions for ultimate flexibility and precise control, Kirium Pro delivers tailored performance and accurate light levels across various applications, from footpaths and cycleways to residential roads and traffic junctions. In addition, a unified design aesthetic ensures a consistent appearance across lighting schemes.

With increased connectivity options, Kirium Pro also benefits from a choice of NEMA and Zhaga sockets in top and bottom locations, providing greater flexibility and helping to futureproof the ENEC approved luminaire. Furthermore, toolless access via quick-release latches offers simplified installation, while a hinged lid and automatic electrical disconnection provide added safety during maintenance.

Alan Grant, Design & Development Director at DW Windsor, commented: “Kirium Pro is our most forward-thinking, futureproofed luminaire to date. The recent upgrades highlight our commitment to helping Local Authorities reach their net zero targets while delivering savings that will benefit the public purse.”

Initially launched in 2016, Kirium Pro has been installed at scale across the UK and beyond, with luminaires illuminating sections of the M1 motorway and the Square Mile in the City of London.

To find out more or contact the DW Windsor team to discuss a project, visit dwwindsor.com.

News

Booming media firm en Route to national expansion following digital investment

SIGNS of growth at a booming media business will lead to further investment across the country.

Cardiff-based Route Media has expanded its network in North Wales and is rolling out digital advertising screens at key locations in the region.

The company installed two ‘mega-6’ screens at Eagles Meadow in Wrexham – supporting the council and partner organisations’ City of Culture bid – and 18 more in Rhyl, Bangor, Llandudno, and Colwyn Bay, reaching an average 760,000 pairs of eyes a week.

With nine more to go live Wales-wide in the coming weeks, Regional Sales Manager for North Wales Scott Lawson said there will be further recruitment and fresh sites targeted throughout 2022.

“We are really pleased to add Eagles Meadow to our portfolio and see North Wales as a crucial area of growth for Route Media,” he added.

“In less than five years – and despite the challenges of the pandemic – we now have a 21-strong team and are expanding all the time, forging partnerships with some of the countries, leading venues, and organisations across multiple industries.

“Among them are Cardiff Airport, Llandudno Pier, Venue Cymru, the councils of Conwy, Swansea and Cardiff, and Swansea Arena, and we are delighted to now be collaborating with Cricket Wales North in providing them with a platform to develop the next generation of cricketers for both Glamorgan and the wider recreational game.

“It’s an exciting time for Route Media and we have more clients and locations in the pipeline, so watch this space!”

The company’s North Wales network covers eight locations in three digital screen formats – from portrait digital screens inside venues to the larger digital mega-6, which can be seen in Wrexham and reaches more than 240,000 people per week.

Other locations in the north include the Deiniol Centre in Bangor, Llandudno Junction Leisure Centre, the BayView Shopping Centre in Colwyn Bay, and Rhyl’s White Rose Centre.

For more information, email sales@routemedia.co.uk or visit the website: www.routemedia.co.uk

News

Young carer inspired by brother’s chemo recovery shines bright with studio support

AN ACCLAIMED music studio is providing young carers and disadvantaged children with free lessons to provide inspiration and an escape from the challenges of everyday life.

Wrexham Sounds has received positive feedback from schools, community groups and health and wellbeing organisations in response to its singing and instrumental workshops.

Among those to benefit was 12 year-old Maisie Carman, a pupil at Ysgol Dinas Bran, Llangollen, who was referred by WCD Young Carers.

Maisie, from Cefn Mawr, helps mum Lisa and stepdad Dean look after seven year-old brother Leo, who has now completed treatment for chemotherapy and is making a full recovery while he awaits further tests for autism and anxiety issues.

She is loving weekly singing lessons with renowned vocal and wellbeing coach Clementine Gong and says being part of Wrexham Sounds helped rebuild her confidence after she “lost her sparkle” during lockdown.

“I absolutely love every second of it, I couldn’t wait to get started and feel so happy when I’m there,” said Maisie.

singing lessons before but really enjoy them and Clemmy is amazing! We practice warming up and she has recommended some great songs which are so much fun to sing.

“I will one hundred million per cent keep singing and in future would love to work as a carer helping other people when they need it most.

“I would definitely encourage other young people to visit Wrexham Sounds, it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done.”

Mum Lisa was so inspired by WCD Young Carers she joined them as an outreach worker.

“Maisie is an incredible little girl, she is so kind and I don’t know what I would do without her,” said Lisa.

“I’m so proud of her and the way she handles everything and supports her brother, even attending hospital visits and being there for him when he struggles with anxiety.

“The way she has thrown herself into the singing lessons and given it everything she’s got is a reflection on how she deals with everyday life. During the pandemic she lost a little bit of her sparkle, as so many children did in lockdown, but she certainly has it back now.

“She is so strong, and an amazing character and we look forward to continuing the lessons with Wrexham Sounds because they have helped her in many ways, especially in building up confidence and giving her a platform to shine even brighter – thank you.”

General Manager Olivia Gallagher said Maisie has made huge progress in the past few weeks and is a star in the making.

“She has come so far in a short amount of time and is an inspiration to us all,” said Olivia.

“Seeing how the lessons have had a positive impact on young people like Maisie is heartening and exactly what Wrexham Sounds is all about.”

She added: “We urge people to get in touch if they want to find out more about the lessons we offer and support available.

“We deliver a range of sessions including piano, drums, guitar, singing and more, and plan to roll out further sessions and workshops in the months ahead.”

For more information or to join the team at Wrexham Sounds as a freelance tutor or volunteer, visit www.wrexhamsounds.org and follow them on social media at @wrexhamsounds.

For more on WCD Young Carers call 01597 823800 or email info@wcdyc.org.uk. Alternatively, email www.carers.cymru/wcdyc.

 

News

70+ employers lined up for first ever Conwy Job Expo

LEADING employers will unite under one roof to showcase hundreds of job opportunities available in the Conwy region.

Creating Enterprise, Llandudno Pier, Castell Ventures, Whitbread, North Wales Police, Cleaner Care, Alpine Travel, Qioptiq, Abacare, St David’s Hospice, Deganwy Quay Hotel, Supertemps, Kiddies Corner Nursery and North Wales Housing are among more than 70 organisations from a wide range of sectors that will attend the inaugural Conwy Job Expo.

The free event has been organised by Conwy Employment Hub – which oversees Communities for Work, PaCE and Communities for Work Plus – in partnership with Working Wales, which is delivered by Careers Wales, the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) and Conwy Business Support team.

It will be held from 2pm to 7pm on Thursday (May 12) at Eirias Events Centre in Colwyn Bay.

The Army will also be there on the day, and Regional Operations Manager Helen Muldowney, believes this is the perfect platform to share advice and guidance on current and future positions.

She added: “The British Army has such a wide range of roles and opportunities available for everyone.

“As one of the most respected organisations in the world, a career in the Army will see you go far, and we will champion and support you to achieve further professional qualifications whilst in your role.”

Qioptiq Learning and Development Manager Lucy Rimmer said the company, which has sites in St Asaph and Bodelwyddan, also has a wide range of vacancies for skilled and semi-skilled workers.

“This is a pivotal time for the business, and we are recruiting in several areas including manufacturing, engineering and programme management,” said Lucy.

“We are looking forward to the Expo and to discussing the dozens of positions we have available right here in North Wales.”

Chris Owens (pictured), Managing Director of Llandudno-based Alpine Travel, added: “We are delighted to be supporting the Conwy Job Expo, which is an excellent opportunity to meet and chat to potential new employees.

“We are always looking for the right people to join our team, and this is a great way to showcase what we do and why working for Alpine Travel is so rewarding.”

Libby Duo, Strategic Manager for Conwy Employment Service, is delighted to see such a vast number of organisations sign up for the exhibition and hopes to see lots of people there on the day.

“This is a chance for employers to showcase their offering and find candidates who can help them build back from the pandemic,” she said.

“For anyone looking for a new start or a change career, or even those just wanting to explore what jobs and academic avenues are out there, this is the place to be.”

The Eirias facility will be divided into sections for exhibitors, education and training, demonstrations, and workshops, covering themes from interview techniques to CV writing.

For more information, email ceh@conwy.gov.uk or call 01492 576280.

Visit Conwy Employment Hub – More information – Conwy County Borough Council for more on Conwy Employment Hub.

News

Free events to support North Wales landlords ahead of landmark rental law changes

AN AWARD-WINNING estate agent will hold free events to support landlords and tenants ahead of a landmark transformation in Welsh rental laws.

Williams Estates is to host drop-in sessions and advice clinics at its offices in Ruthin, Rhyl, Denbigh, Mold, Prestatyn and Rhuddlan in the run up to July 15, when The Renting Homes Act 2016 is set to be introduced across the country.

The Act has been branded the “biggest change to housing law in Wales for decades” and includes updates to current laws; among them is an increase in the notice landlords must give when issuing ‘no-fault’ evictions and protection for tenants from ‘no-fault’ evictions for a minimum of 12 months after signing a contract.

Managing Director Jason Williams and the team – named Best Lettings Agency in Denbighshire at The British Property Awards for 2021/22 – are on hand to help all parties as the changes will mark a “watershed moment” for the sector.

“The Act has been in the pipeline for some time so the announcement it will finally take place this summer will have a huge impact on landlords and tenants,” said Jason.

“It will in many ways make the process a lot simpler but in the short term there will be a lot of questions around liability, insurance, legalities and other issues so we are going to hold free advice and information sessions across all our North Wales offices to try and help people as much as we can.

“Whether you are a customer of Williams Estates or not, our award-winning, experienced staff will be on hand to share their expertise at what is a watershed moment for the housing industry.”

From July 15, all landlords will be required to provide a written copy of the occupation contract to the tenant, setting out the rights and responsibilities of both parties; there will be a strengthened duty on landlords to ensure the property is fit for human habitation, including the installation of smoke alarms and regular electrical safety testing, and the introduction of a consistent approach to eviction where antisocial behaviour and domestic violence occurs.

Welsh Government Climate Change Minister Julie James admitted the Act has “taken longer than expected” to implement but says it will have a positive effect for years to come.

She added: “This Act represents the biggest change to housing law in Wales for decades and will make it simpler and easier to rent a home, replacing various, complex pieces of existing legislation and case law with one clear legal framework.

“When in place, contract-holders in Wales will have greater security of tenure than in any other part of the UK.”

For more information on the free information clinics, visit the Williams Estates website www.williamsestates.com and follow Williams Estates on social media @williamsestates.

News

Business and training partners launch new gym and lifestyle firm

LEADING lights in business and training are powering ahead with plans to open a revolutionary new health and fitness complex later this year.

Sion Pritchard and Rich Blake have launched LVL5 Gyms Ltd, taking a fresh approach to the industry with proposals for an accessible, innovative environment welcoming people of all ages and abilities.

The duo invested in state-of-the-art equipment – including localised Cryotherapy and the region’s first Fit3D Proscanner – and envision a completely different offering centred on positivity and wellbeing.

Rich, a personal trainer and Workplace Resilience and Wellbeing Master Practitioner (WRAW MP) from Dwygyfylchi, and PetPlace owner Sion, from Colwyn Heights, met four years ago and became training partners before deciding to transform their ideas to reality.

Both felt they could bring something different to North Wales and are determined to level up the industry and offer visitors a first-class experience.

“I know first-hand the difference having a healthy body and mind can have on your whole perspective, because since changing my routine and lifestyle my personal and professional life have never been better,” said Sion.

“It’s not just about going to the gym, lifting weights and training hard, we are aiming for far more than that, a community which is warm and welcoming, an experience people have never had before.

“From the equipment to the social aspect of keeping fit, we will be at the forefront of advances in the sector and will instil a culture of support, safety, mindfulness and hard work, with no pressure and a positive outlook – we can’t wait to get started.”

A partnership with the pioneering Glasgow-based Primal Strength organisation and ethos derived from Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs – Self-Actualization, Esteem, Love/Belonging, Safety, Physiological – are at the foundation of this upcoming venture.

Rich says with their core values LVL5 is in great shape moving forward.

“We have taken our time to create the brand, find the perfect location and design a bespoke, cutting-edge facility that will make a big impact on the health and fitness arena,” he said.

“There will be plenty of options for people who want to come and train, or prefer instructor-led sessions, one-to-one support, and small group activities. We will also be giving free talks and presentations with industry experts, and so much more.

“LVL5 will be designed to be accessible to all, and there is huge demand out there for what we are planning, especially post-pandemic where physical and mental health have become even more of a priority.

“We just want our members to experience what Sion and I have been through in past years, how exercise, nutrition and self-care can leave you a happier, healthier person, mentally and physically.”

Sion echoed those words, and said: “We will keep investing, keep bringing in the latest technology and keep raising the bar.

“At this stage we can’t say too much more other than ‘watch this space’, something very, very exciting, modern and fresh is coming and we believe it will revolutionise the gym experience here in North Wales.”

For more information, visit www.lvl5gyms.com or follow @lvl5gyms on social media. Alternatively, email info@lvl5gyms.co.uk. 

News

Skin clinic reveals patients lost confidence and ditched beauty regimes during lockdown

AN ‘alarming’ number of people lost confidence in their appearance after two years of wearing masks and video conferencing in isolation.

Pure Perfection Clinic in Rossett, near Wrexham and Chester, experienced a surge in feedback from patients who became used to “hiding away” behind face coverings and abandoned skincare and beauty routines after being in lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Award-winning owner Sara Cheeney, from Llangollen, said a return to face-to-face meetings, no social distancing and getting back to the workplace left many clients feeling self-conscious after covering up for so long.

“We have had an alarming number of patients come back to us in past months who say they dreaded endless video conferencing meetings because they were not used to looking at their own face all day,” she added.

“Given so many of us were in lockdown and had to mask up in public it’s quite understandable there would be some anxiety, and that has been the case for some people.

“We held free consultations and tutorials throughout the Coronavirus pandemic and continue to do so virtually for those who want them, but most patients have returned to clinic and their skincare routines and are already feeling a hundred times better.

“It is a physical issue but also a state of mind; if confidence is low and you are worried about the way you look it can have a wider impact – this was an unprecedented time for all sectors and each one has navigated challenges never experienced previously.”

Pure Perfection Clinic added to its specialist offering during the pandemic with new treatments including Thread Face Lifts and the National Medical Weight Loss and 10 Years Younger packages.

The clinic is also now a Centre of Excellence for the Maili Dermal Filler Brand – recognition of its safe practice and customer service – and the launch of a new website has enabled patients to purchase products and book appointments online.

Ahead of a revamp to their Chester Road site – a new treatment room forms part of the redevelopment – and with skilled staff in place on the medical side of the business, Clinic Manager Marianne Burrell said they have never been busier.

“In past months we have seen more and more bookings, which after such a tumultuous period is very positive,” she said.

“The next step is to consolidate and then grow steadily, with plans for long-term expansion and new treatments, as well as national training programmes.

“We’ve also been shortlisted for the Aesthetic Medicine awards in four categories so we are hoping to add a few more trophies to our list of achievements.

“Above all, the health and happiness of our patients is paramount, so to see them refocus on their own wellbeing and return with smiles on their faces and renewed optimism is fantastic.

“It’s an exciting time for Pure Perfection Clinic and we would like to thank our team, patients and supporters – especially those on social media – who have been with us throughout.”

For more information, visit the website www.pureperfectionclinic.com or follow Pure Perfection Clinic (@purepclinic and @pureperfectionrossett) on social media.

Alternatively, call 01244 917259 or email hello@pureperfectionclinic.com.

News

College apprentice blossoms in Snowdonia conservation role

AN APPRENTICE who appeared on a popular TV show is blossoming in her role with a leading conservation partnership.

Eleri Turner is enjoying life with Coleg Cambria and the Carneddau Landscape Partnership, a five-year National Heritage Lottery-funded scheme conserving an area of northern Snowdonia.

The 23 year-old has been working alongside National Trust Cymru Ranger Abbie Edwards, and the two of them – who both hail from Bethesda – featured in a recent episode of the flagship BBC programme, Countryfile.

Their work in clearing gorse around an Iron Age hut settlement reported to be 2,000 years old on nearby Moel Faban was watched by more than six million viewers.

Having secured another year with the Snowdonia National Park Authority, Eleri is excited at what the future will bring and thanked Cambria for its part in helping her realise her ambitions.

“It has been so enjoyable, especially as this area of Snowdonia is right on my doorstep,” said Eleri, a former pupil at Ysgol Tryfan, Bangor.

“I am looking forward to staying on with the conservation section and continuing in a further apprenticeship role, having completed the Level 2 Diploma in Work-based Environmental Conservation with the college.

“Due to the pandemic the majority of academic learning has been online, but I have found it very interesting, and an opportunity to document my own personal journey and the progress we have made.”

As a toddler, Eleri took her first steps on Moel Faban, as her mum brought her there to learn to walk!

From that point on her love of the outdoors was here to stay, and now there is only one thing she wants to do with her career.

“Growing up in the village I always imagined I would be living elsewhere after leaving school, but there is nowhere more beautiful to carry out work like this and nowhere I would rather be,” she said.

“Conservation is important to me, and of course this part of the world is very special, but I am also planning on taking a forest school qualification so I can help to teach children more about their surroundings and the environment.”

Reflecting on her Countryfile experience, Eleri added: “It was fantastic to be a part of the programme and quite exciting as I had to speak and was required to do some action shots with the presenter, showing them how to clear the gorse.

“The most important thing is it shone a light on this amazing project, which I’m proud to have been a part of.”

Cambria’s Work-based Learning Manager Kate Muddiman congratulated Eleri on her success and encouraged others to consider the option to “earn while you learn” on an apprenticeship.

“Eleri is a fantastic example of someone who is doing a job they love while balancing education and experience,” said Kate.

“She has done brilliantly well over the past year, and we wish her the best of luck for the future.”

Those words were echoed by Beca Roberts, Community Engagement Officer for Carneddau Landscape Partnership Scheme, who said: “Since starting with us last year Eleri has become an invaluable part of the Carneddau scheme team.

“Her duties have ranged from construction of a brand-new micro-nursery, to leading volunteer events, all done with confidence and professionalism.

“She’s willing to get stuck into any project with enthusiasm, to such an extent that she has been offered a role within the Snowdonia National Park Authority’s conservation team after finishing the apprenticeship.

“We’re so proud to see how far she’s come, and excited to see her career within the conservation sector develop.”

For more on the Carneddau Landscape Partnership Scheme, visit the website: www.snowdonia.gov.wales/looking-after/carneddau-partnership

Visit www.cambria.ac.uk for more on the wide range of apprenticeships, courses, and qualifications available at Coleg Cambria.

News

Management buyout and new owners for pioneering pet retail chain

A PIONEERING pet retailer is under new ownership and on the rise following a period of recruitment and investment.

Sion Pritchard and Paul Penketh, directors of Snowdon Holdings, are now majority shareholders of PetPlace having completed a management buyout (MBO).

The company has stores in Abergele, Ruthin, Mold, Llangefni and Chirk, and a headquarters on Tir Llwyd Enterprise Park in Kinmel Bay.

Both Paul and Sion, from Colwyn Heights, were already leading the North Wales business – supported by founder Gwyn Lewis – and are thrilled to be at the helm as PetPlace begins a new era.

With turnover exceeding £10m for the first time, plans to expand their 100-strong team with more sales and administrative staff and the potential to open further stores in the coming years, Sion says they are perfectly placed to grow further post-pandemic.

“The last two years have raised challenges but also given us the opportunity to advance the business in-store and behind the scenes,” said Sion.

“Everything is moving in the right direction, but we are looking at the future, which will eventually include further stores and more staff.

“Whatever happens, we will continue with our long-term and controlled approach and as always the pets and their owners are the number one for priority for everyone here.”

Among the biggest developments during Covid was the opening of a new dispatch warehouse to manage the growing number of online orders, and a popular loyalty app.

All a long way from the launch of Farm and Pet Place in 1970, which started from the back of a van and grew under Gwyn’s initial stewardship to become the region’s leading independent pet product retailer.

He is thrilled the organisation he founded will be in “safe hands” for the next generation and said: “I am excited to take a step aside and embrace this new era. Paul and Sion have so many wonderful ideas and will lead PetPlace to even greater heights, I’m sure.

“I am proud of them both and of course delighted to see PetPlace go from strength to strength after all these years – best of luck to you both.”

Paul added: “Both Sion and I are proud to have been part of the PetPlace family for a long time, so to now be taking it forward and building for the future is a huge privilege for us.

“There are many exciting developments on the horizon as we continue to evolve and have a positive impact on the local economy and the specialist pet retail sector – watch this space.”

For more information on PetPlace, including the PetPlace Plus+ loyalty app, follow @petplaceUK on Facebook and Instagram or email sales@farmandpetplace.co.uk. The app is available on platforms including Google Play and The App Store. 

News

Industries will unite to showcase job opportunities at inaugural employment Expo

BUSINESSES, educators and training organisations can sign up to a free exhibition at one of the country’s premier event venues.

Eirias Events Centre in Colwyn Bay will host the inaugural Conwy Job Expo on Thursday May 12 from 2pm-7pm.

Organised by Conwy Employment Hub – which oversees Communities for Work, PaCE and Communities for Work Plus – in partnership with Working Wales, which is delivered by Careers Wales, the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) and Conwy Business Support team, the Expo aims to bring multiple sectors under one roof to promote recruitment opportunities across the region.

Prospective job candidates, learners and apprentices will have the opportunity to meet with dozens of employers from a wide range of industries and take the next step towards their future careers.

Libby Duo, Strategic Manager for Conwy Employment Service, said they have already received a positive response and hope to see a great turnout on the day.

“This is a chance to shine a light on the many jobs which are currently being advertised in Conwy and the surrounding area,” she added.

“Recruitment is a major issue nationwide – particularly in hospitality, tourism, and IT – so we want employers to use this event to showcase their offering and find candidates who can help them build back from the pandemic.

“For those wanting to explore a new direction or professional and personal development there will be colleges, business support teams and training providers on-site to discuss your options, share information and provide guidance.

“If you are looking for a job, recruiting to your organisation or welcoming prospective learners for the next academic year, this is going to be a crucial event, a one-stop shop for employability and education – we hope to see you there.”

The Eirias facility will be divided into sections for exhibitors, education and training, demonstrations, and workshops, covering themes from interview techniques to CV writing.

Emma Lloyd-Edwards, Operational Development Manager for Conwy at Careers Wales, said: “The Expo is an excellent opportunity for anyone just starting their career journey, looking for work or who wants a change of direction. It’s also great for local employers to promote their sector and any live vacancies they have.

“This will be an ideal chance to network and connect with prospective employers and be informed of alternative career routes that may not have otherwise been considered.”

Sam Chadburn, DWP Employer Partnership Manager for Conwy, added: “We are looking forward to the event and bringing these key organisations together to help boost the local economy and develop career opportunities for those wanting a fresh start.”

Leila Cravetto, Business Engagement Officer with Conwy’s Business Support Team, echoed those points and believes the Expo is perfectly timed in light of challenges faced during the pandemic.

“We believe this is a great opportunity for many of our businesses to engage with people looking for employment or those wanting a career change,” she said.

“The event will not only promote the opportunities currently on offer but will highlight the careers that the key sectors can provide.”

Businesses looking to register for a free place can email business@conwy.gov.uk.

For more information, email ceh@conwy.gov.uk or call 01492 576280.

Visit Conwy Employment Hub – More information – Conwy County Borough Council for more on Conwy Employment Hub.