Tag Archives: anglesey

News

Pan-Wales project showcasing high street regeneration tech takes to the road

A PIONEERING project which uses cutting-edge technology to help shape town centre regeneration will hit the road this summer.

Smart Towns Cymru will host a series of events across Wales beginning in Newport on Thursday (May 16).

Having welcomed up to 120 people to its inaugural conference, held at Ty Pawb in Wrexham earlier this year, the programme – delivered by Anglesey and Porthmadog-based Menter Mon – wants to engage with even more businesses and local authorities in Wales.

The aim is to bring together key high street decision makers with retailers and relevant parties to help breathe life into local economies across the country.

Project Manager Kiki Rees-Stavros said: “We are encouraging businesses to attend and engage with their local authorities and town and community councils to look at ways to move forward together, to discuss what issues they are facing and how they can work in partnership to resolve them.

“This is a great platform to bring organisations together under one roof and share best practice in an informal setting, and to learn how other areas have benefited from the incredible technology and innovative practices that have had a positive impact on other towns and villages.”

She added: “I hope people will capitalise on this opportunity – in Newport and the other regions we will be visiting this summer – especially following the success of our first ever conference in Wrexham, where we signed up 19 new Smart Ambassadors and had representatives from 19 of the 22 local authorities in Wales.

“Together we will continue to explore and develop sustainable solutions that will benefit businesses, help increase footfall and shine a light on trends in our town centres, which in turn will influence decision making in the future.”

More than 50 people have already registered for the Newport event, and there will be presentations on the day from Owen Davies Consulting from Abergavenny, Caerphilly-based VZTA, leaders in Smart Towns ecosystems, BABLE Smart Cities, and software development pioneers Kodergarten, from Gwynedd, who trialled innovative seismology technology as part of the wider Patrwm Smart Places project at last summer’s National Eisteddfod.

The roadshow will then move on to the following areas: Brecon (June 4), Newtown (June 5), Anglesey (July 5), and Flintshire (July 10).

Launched in 2021, the Trefi Smart Towns Cymru project, funded by Welsh Government, has promoted the use of technology and data to rejuvenate high streets all over Wales and encourage data driven decision making.

Visit www.mentermon.com for more news and information from Menter Mon.

To book on one of the upcoming events, visit Eventbrite: Trefi SMART Towns Cymru Events – 7 Upcoming Activities and Tickets | Eventbrite

For more on the Smart Towns Cymru conference, watch the video here: Cynhadledd Trefi SMART Towns Cymru Conference (youtube.com)

News

Solar business lights up Caribbean with cutting-edge new marine technology

INNOVATORS behind revolutionary solar technology for the shipping industry have unveiled a cutting-edge and ruggedised new model for a giant of the marine sector.

Anglesey and Manchester-based Grafmarine created a square Nanodeck tile – in addition to the current hexagonal shape – that will be tested in Caribbean waters by SMT Shipping, a worldwide leader in the movement of bulk cargo.

This will allow pieces to connect on a flat surface even easier, which in turn means the AI solar management system can capture, store, and remotely manage more clean energy.

Leaders in the international shipping market are working towards net zero, driven by customer demand, legislative changes, and global targets, and exploring ways to decarbonise their fleets.

Grafmarine Commercial Director Nigel Marc Roberts said this new partnership will make waves and give them a platform to further trial their cutting-edge technology, supporting those aims.

“Testing this latest model will allow us to use more conventional materials in a square model, which is simpler to manufacture, more powerful and considerably more cost efficient for the client,” said Nigel.

“We will of course still use recyclable ocean plastics and our ethos as a business is to be a pioneer in fully recyclable renewable energy, but this gives us scope to gather data that will feed into the production process.

“This latest version is really heavy-duty and ruggedised, it’s easy to repair, replace and recycle, so we are excited to see the results.”

Chris Russell, Engineering director of Grafmarine, said the new more ruggedised square panels will be produced alongside the hexagonal model, with a focus on different markets.

“The square is ideal for the hard-wearing, extreme conditions of the shipping industry while the hexagonal alternative is more aesthetically pleasing and attracting a lot of interest in the luxury super-yacht market,” he said.

“Both are game changers and will have a major impact on how clean energy is stored and managed at sea.

“The relationship we are building with SMT Shipping, alongside other connections and partnerships we’ve made over the last year, will help us to develop this technology even further and make a real difference to this industry for generations to come.”

Operating a fleet of more than 60 vessels, SMT Shipping is active in the Americas with self-loading and discharging bulk carriers, cement carriers in Europe and transhipment vessels in West-Africa.

With sites in Cyprus, Poland, the UK, Netherlands, Norway, and the US, the company has been a mainstay in the arena for more than 30 years.

Recognising the importance of decarbonisation, several years ago SMT Shipping started the ‘Towards Zer0’ programme to test new technologies that can be scaled up within the fleet.

“We’re thrilled to include the Nanodeck technology in our programme and offer Grafmarine a platform for this pioneering technology. We look forward to the test results and together with Grafmarine will investigate how these systems can be applied on our fleet,” they said.

For more information on SMT Shipping, visit www.smtshipping.com and follow them on LinkedIn @SMT Shipping and Instagram @smtshipping.

Visit www.grafmarine.com and follow Grafmarine on social media @grafmarineltd for the latest on Grafmarine.

News

Solar pioneers sign major deal to help decarbonise global shipping industry

GRAFMARINE secured a new partnership with a global leader in the decarbonisation of the international shipping industry.

Based in Manchester and Anglesey, Grafmarine is at the forefront of developing Nanodeck technology for the maritime sector.

The company has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Njord Accelerator to conduct a proof of concept, followed by a pilot installation which aims to fully explore the capabilities of solar tiles in the maritime industry.

Njord stands out for its role in enhancing the relationship between ship owners, charterers, vendors, and financiers. The organisation’s primary goal is to increase fuel efficiency of vessels, reduce their carbon footprint, and cut down greenhouse gas emissions.

Through this partnership, Grafmarine’s solar energy generation and management system, designed to capture, store, and manage clean energy at sea, in port, or at anchorage, will be validated.

Grafmarine has developed durable square panels and aesthetically pleasing hexagonal tiles that can be affixed to any vessel, showcasing its innovative approach to sustainable maritime technology.

Chris Russell, Engineering Director at Grafmarine, said: “Working with Njord is a privilege. Their guidance and support will be crucial as we refine Nanodeck technology.

“This collaboration not only marks a significant milestone in improving our product but also plays a vital role in introducing us to potential customers and partners within the maritime and shipping industries – it’s a pivotal step forward for us.”

Njord, headquartered in Denmark with a global presence, offers services including Technology Screening, Solution Design, Installation Partnership, and Njord Performance.

Steen Sander Jacobsen, Head of Technical at Njord, said: “At Njord Accelerator, we’re committed to supporting technology providers in advancing the green transition.

“Grafmarine’s solar tiles, known for their scalability, flexibility, and durability, represent a promising solution for the maritime industry. We’re excited about the potential this partnership holds.”

For more information on Grafmarine, visit www.grafmarine.com and follow @grafmarineltd on social media.

To learn more about Njord and its services, visit www.njordsolution.com.

News

Revolutionary seismology sensors to shape future of town centre regeneration in Wales

REVOLUTIONARY new seismology software will shake up the way organisations measure footfall and have a positive impact on town centre regeneration.

Menter Môn trialled the innovative Raspberry Shake wireless technology as part of the wider Patrwm Smart Places project at last summer’s National Eisteddfod, held in Boduan, Gwynedd.

Created by software development pioneers Kodergarten, sensors were placed in strategic areas locally, including the neighbouring towns and villages of Abersoch, Nefyn, Pwllheli, Y Ffor and Y Maes at the Eisteddfod itself.

Ahead of the country’s first ever Smart Towns Cymru conference in Wrexham this Friday (March 15), results have revealed significant increases in activity at peak times during the week-long event, and insights into footfall and traffic flow statistics in the towns and villages that surrounded the Eisteddfod site.

Kodergarten co-founder Paul Sandham said processing WiFi sensor and seismometer data – while adhering to GDPR rules – has demonstrated the viability of this approach and helped to deliver more accurate information about a place.

“Using innovative and low-cost technologies, we were able to produce more accurate footfall data which demonstrated how many people were at the Eisteddfod and in surrounding communities whilst at the same time delivering real-time data on traffic volumes at key locations,” he said.

“Going forward that will help influence the decision-making process for event organisers and nearby communities, information that could play a key part in helping to regenerate our high streets and town centres.”

Paul added: “We used microseismology to do this – recording and processing data derived from tiny vibrations in the ground – and that allowed us to capture data without ‘tracking’ anyone.

“It also gave an insight and real confidence in the numbers obtained via Wi-Fi sensors. This was a trial of the equipment we hope to deploy to build confidence in the quality of data – there is so much more we can do with this technology.

“This was a fantastic exercise for Menter Môn and ourselves to work in collaboration, and for us as a company looking for future investment it demonstrates that by using seismometer sensors, we can produce distinct and valid patterns of visitor behaviour, and traffic flow.”

During the trial, the Patrwm system processed a sliding 10-minute window of data every 30 seconds, which meant near real-time information was available for analysis. This innovative and scalable data pipeline now processes all sensor information on the Patrwm database.

Their report also revealed the two most popular areas during the week outside of the Eisteddfod were the predominantly Welsh-speaking villages of Nefyn and Aberdaron, and delays were minimal at peak times which indicates traffic flow and management implemented by Gwynedd Council was working well, despite the large number of vehicles.

Launched in 2021, the Trefi Smart Towns Cymru project, funded by the Welsh Government and delivered by Menter Môn, has promoted the use of technology and data to rejuvenate high streets all over Wales and encourage data driven decision making.

Project Manager Kiki Rees-Stavros said: “This technology complements existing Wi-Fi provision in north west Wales and allows for incredibly accurate figures. It adds a lot of value for local authorities and town planners, and anyone wanting to garner this information at an affordable cost.

“This is a Welsh solution to what is a global issue, so we are very proud as an organisation to have worked with Kodergarten on this initiative.”

Visit www.mentermon.com for more news and information from Menter Mon.

For more information on Kodergarten, visit the website: www.kodergarten.com.

To view the report, visit Eisteddfod shake report – Final Version – Feb 26th (smarttowns.cymru) (English) and eisteddfod-addroddiad-traffig-a-gweithgaredd-dynol-eisteddfod-23.pdf (smarttowns.cymru) (Cymraeg).

Menter Mon and Kodergarten will be hosting a webinar following the Smart Towns conference. Register for free here: Monitoring Footfall with Seismology / Monitro Nifer Ymwelwyr gyda Seismoleg Tickets, Wed 10 Apr 2024 at 13:00 | Eventbrite

News

Welsh schools show support for local food producers with patriotic St David’s Day menus

SCHOOLS are showing their support for patriotic producers and using more locally sourced ingredients for their St David’s Day dinner menus.

Specially prepared items for today’s (Friday) lunchtime celebrations at a select number of primary and secondary schools will incorporate food and drink manufactured and distributed right on their doorstep, where possible.

As part of Larder Cymru’s Welsh Food for Schools pilot scheme – delivered by Menter Mon – the local authorities of Wrexham, Flintshire, Anglesey, Gwynedd, Cardiff, and Caerphilly have pledged to review their current offering and do more to utilise Welsh produce.

Marcia Lewis, Principal Officer for Caerphilly’s catering service, is fully behind the initiative.

“St David’s Day is a special celebration for all schools in Caerphilly,” she said.

“This year we are celebrating the event by using Welsh produce from local manufacturers, which will appeal to our pupils across the borough.

“Our strategy is to enable pupils to have greater access to nutritious, high-quality local foods, enhanced learning about food, agriculture, and healthy lifestyles whilst increasing the use of Welsh produce on our menus.”

Among the Welsh and locally produced delights being served up in Caerphilly are lamb leek and mint sausage, potatoes and other vegetables, wholemeal bread, yoghurt, ice cream, fruit bars, and still water.

Supported by the Welsh Government’s Backing Local Firms Fund, the overall aim of Welsh Food for Schools is to increase the volume and range of Welsh produce purchased and used by education catering departments in their counties going forward.

Larder Cymru’s Food Lead David Wylie is delighted with the commitment of the schools and councils and hopes it will have a significant impact on the food and drink economy in North Wales.

“We are working in collaboration not only to give these sectors more support at a crucial time for them, but also to focus on health and wellbeing of young people, sustainability and the environment,” said David.

“And what better time than on St David’s Day to shine a light on these issues and champion the incredible producers we have across Wales, particularly here in the north where this project is gaining real momentum.

“We thank everyone for their support – Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus!”

For more information, visit the website www.lardercymru.wales or email david@mentermon.com. Alternatively, follow @mentermon on social media.

News

Enterprise hub outperforming peers “by some margin” launches new grants and start-up services

A TRANSFORMATIVE enterprise hub outperforming its peers “by some margin” will enter its sixth year with a raft of new services for start-ups and entrepreneurs.

The pioneering Menter Môn Enterprise Hub (Hwb Menter), based with project partners M-SParc in Gaerwen and at Hwb Arloesi, Porthmadog, has unveiled a series of benefits and incentives in addition to its co-working spaces and popular Miwtini start-up programme.

Businesses in Gwynedd and Anglesey can apply for a £2,500 ‘support package’ that includes access to guidance and free information, financial backing and more.

A recent Welsh Government evaluation revealed the north west Wales Enterprise Hub team, managed by Sara Lois Roberts, was “outperforming by some margin” other hubs in Wales, and “has been able to reach a new and different audience”.

Sara is “proud and excited” they can move forward and offer even more to people across the region.

“We have a fantastic team within the Enterprise Hub who have worked tirelessly to help people over the last five years, so for that to be recognised by Welsh Government was heartening,” she said.

“Our services will continue, with a focus on start-ups and entrepreneurs in Gwynedd and Anglesey, and the new support package shows we are even more determined to give those looking to start their own business the help they need to succeed.”

The Enterprise Hub has done just that for more than 180 new enterprises since 2018 – there was no slowing down for the Coronavirus pandemic – demonstrating how pivotal the need was for an in-person, accessible platform aligned to the “local business ecosystem”.

Opening a hub in Porthmadog reinforced the need for a service in that area, and it has proven popular with solo workers in particular, offering remote, hot desk spaces, events, and networking.

This location joins a network of other hubs, including MSParc’s #OnTour locations in Pwllheli and Bangor.

Pryderi ap Rhisiart, M-SParc Managing Director said: “The Enterprise Hub has been a fantastic example of how M-SParc and Menter Môn collaborate on projects which lead to positive results across a variety of industries and sectors in North Wales, and perfectly fits our remit of business growth in the area, job creation, and making North Wales an attractive place to work.”

Having now received £568,184 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund via Cyngor Gwynedd / Anglesey County Council and £150,000 from Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS) a wholly owned subsidiary of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), Sara is delighted the Enterprise Hub can continue to give those who need it a commercial kickstart.

NRS’s Director of External Affairs, Bill Hamilton said: “We at NRS are happy to support schemes such as the Enterprise Hub through Menter Môn, which aims to support local communities as well as bring socio economic benefits. Menter Mon has played a pivotal role in enabling NRS to support growth here in North Wales and we look forward to seeing them continue to deliver on their projects.”

Sara added: “Our core services will remain and have gone from strength to strength.

“But the new support package will be a game changer for start-ups in the two counties, especially the £2,500 financial assistance which can be used for important long-term benefits, whether that be memberships, software, subscriptions to accounting packages, or using professionals such as accountants, graphic designers, or web developers.

“However, it’s much more than just a financial incentive, the overall wraparound scheme will give start-ups and anyone looking to launch a business all the support they need, including tips and advice from our database of experts in a wide range of fields.

“We have already had a very positive response and would like to thank everyone who has engaged with the Enterprise Hub – for more information on how we can help you please get in touch.”

For more on how the Enterprise Hub can help you start-up in business, email post@hwbmenter.cymru or call 01248 858 070.

Alternatively, visit www.hwbmenter.cymru or follow @hwbmenter on social media. 

News

Ukrainian water system helping farmers in Wales grow bigger and better fruit and veg

A VEGETABLE farmer has reaped the rewards following a successful trial of a revolutionary Ukrainian irrigation system.

Supported by Menter Mon’s Tech Tyfu vertical farming project – based on Anglesey – Snowdon Valley Farm has tested the Adam’s Water technology over past months and seen a significant increase in the size, quality and yield of its fruit and vegetables.

Warren Priestley, who together with Len and Gareth Griffith-Swain launched the farm business (Fferm Cwm yr Wyddfa) in Waunfawr two years ago, says the process destroys complex compounds of mineral fertilisers for better availability of nutrition, accelerating plant growth and fruit ripening.

It also improves the quality of saline, irrigation water, reduces the harmful effects of hydrocarbons on the plant and could lead to a 10% increase in yield.

“We are incredibly honoured to have been the first farm in the UK to use the Adam’s Water technology and have noticed a difference in our produce, particularly the tomatoes and cucumbers,” said Warren.

“We split the polytunnel into two halves and on the side using this process there was on average a 10% increase in size, and much more with certain varieties.

“It has also allowed us to weigh the produce, check the data and feed that back; we saw an immediate impact and because the produce lasts longer and there is superior growth it allows you to push the season a little longer.”

He added: “We are a small operation, but this could work on a much larger scale, there is no limit to the effect this will have on the sector.

“It is so simple to install, you just plug it in to main supply, add water and fertiliser and the feed becomes almost super-charged, you get faster growing plants, they’re a better quality and more resilient.

“As a result, we’ve been able to experiment and try different things, and after taking the tomatoes – our Y Ddraig Goch (Red Dragon) variety is very popular – to local restaurants they could also see the benefits.”

Warren now plans to slowly increase their operation and eventually plant a ‘food forest’ featuring a combination of local and national varieties of fruit, vegetables, and microgreens.

“We want to attract visitors to the area and promote the ‘grow your own’ ethos, especially given soaring costs at the supermarket,” he said.

“The Adam’s Water system will definitely help us to realise that vision, and there’s no doubt it could help others too.”

Tech Tyfu Senior Project Officer David Wylie said the project – driven by Menter Mon and Business Wales – could be a game-changer for growers across the country.

“Warren has demonstrated that the technology works, in just a matter of months he was able to diversify, try different methods and compare the outcomes,” said David.

“This is a brilliant innovation and the team behind it are keen to collaborate with farms and growers, especially given reports indicate just 6% of fruit and veg sold in the public sector in Wales is grown in Wales.

“We want to increase that number and encourage more and more people to buy local, to support independent producers and embrace sustainability.

“Adam’s Water could be a real driver for that, reducing harmful effects of hydrocarbons on plants, increasing yield, and improving the quality of saline, irrigation water – it is an amazing concept, and it works.”

Vitalii But from Adam’s Water thanked Snowdon Valley Farm, Business Wales, and Tech Tyfu for demonstrating the system’s capabilities.

“In the expansive landscape of Ukraine, farmers have adopted the Adam’s Water system for the past two years and it has benefited various crops like cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, and strawberries,” he said.

“Universally, all users have reported a significant boost in crop yield, improved disease resistance, and extended plant growth seasons. One Ukrainian farm even achieved a remarkable entry in the Ukrainian record book for the number of tomatoes harvested from a single bush, as a result of using this system – so it is making a very positive difference.”

Business Wales Relationship Manager Svetlana Ross added: “We take pride in our role in facilitating the introduction of this transformative technology, furthering our commitment to supporting new and existing businesses in Wales.

“We anticipate continued collaboration and the enduring success of the Adam’s Water system as it continues to revolutionise agriculture in the UK and on a global scale.”

For more news and information from Tech Tyfu, visit www.techtyfu.com and follow them on social media @TechTyfu. 

Visit the Facebook page www.facebook.com/snowdonvalleyfarm/ or email snowdonvalleyfarm@hotmail.com for more on Snowdon Valley Farm.

Email adams.water.uk@icloud.com for more information on the Adam’s Water project.

News

Solar pioneers target ‘fully recyclable renewable energy’ following talks with circular economy giants

GRAFMARINE is fostering global partnerships and creating innovative solutions to drive the marine sector’s circular economy.

The Anglesey and Manchester-based business has secured contracts for international shipping companies to trial its ground-breaking Nanodeck technology, an AI solar tile management system which can be attached to any flat surface to capture, store, and remotely manage clean energy.

Director and Founder Martin Leigh has also been in discussions with world-leading organisations to forge new relationships focused on sustainability in the marine sector, driving their long-term campaign for ‘fully recyclable renewable energy’.

It comes as Grafmarine was shortlisted for the Technology and Innovation Award at this year’s Mersey Maritime Industry Awards having also been a finalist in the Clean Maritime Energy Award category of the recent National Maritime SME Awards, held in London.

“To have been nominated for two such prestigious awards is a great honour, it builds confidence and demonstrates that we are moving in the right direction,” said Martin.

“The feedback we have had to this point has been very positive, the sector has been hugely supportive and the conversations we are having centre on sustainability, not just through our technology but as an industry working to create a lasting circular economy for generations to come.”

He added: “Our target is to become one of the first fully recycled renewable energy products before 2030.

“To achieve that we are looking to build new partnerships in our sustainability supply network. Grafmarine has already worked with the SMI Hub at Henry Royce Institute, looking at the full life cycle of our marine plastics, and we are now including the use of ocean plastic into our next prototype test before the end of 2023.”

The team has also been working in collaboration with The Circular Revolution – an academic research group specialising in the Circular Economy with Swansea and Exeter universities and Powys-based Riversimple – to hone its circular business model and identify further opportunities. The findings will be presented at an event in Cardiff later this year.

Grafmarine Commercial Director Nigel Marc Roberts said the drive towards net zero and lowering – and eventually eradicating – the company’s carbon footprint goes hand in hand with further development of its Nanodeck technology.

“There are so many avenues we can pursue, and so many ventures and projects at home and overseas we are engaged with,” he said.

“From the recycling of old fishing nets and developing new photovoltaics (PV) with partners in a bid to eliminate toxic waste, to the implementation of alternative ‘green’ materials, we will continue to engage with organisations across the world to make that happen while further developing our product, itself a game-changer for clean energy generation in the marine sector.”

Martin added: “It’s an exciting time for Grafmarine, we are working on a new, larger solar tile prototype that will be unveiled next year and are in discussions to manufacture in Wales from 2025 onwards.

“That’s our vision, things are progressing, and we are very determined to make it happen.”

For more information, visit the website www.grafmarine.com and follow Grafmarine on social media @grafmarineltd.

News

Independent school to undergo significant redevelopment following investment

YSGOL St Gerard is beginning an exciting new era.

The pioneering independent day school – which again secured the highest GCSE and A Levels results in North Wales during the summer – will undergo a period of significant development over the coming months.

Attracting pupils from all over the region for more than a century, the Bangor institution is planning to build new sports facilities on its seven-acre site, including tennis courts and a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA).

They will also invest in cutting-edge IT equipment, a revamped website, social media channels and branding, innovative learning technology systems and improve signage, access, fencing and landscaping around its picturesque grounds.

The arrival of Business Manager Steve Griffiths in tandem with the inspirational leadership of long-standing Headteacher Campbell Harrison marks a fresh chapter for the beloved Gwynedd school, which employs more than 30 people locally.

“We have a long and proud history in Bangor for delivering high achievement while creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere for the children to reach their full potential,” said Mr Harrison.

“We are a small school but have reached great heights over the years because of the standard of teaching and support we offer, while retaining that identity.

“That will always be our priority, but we are also laying the foundations for the future, both academically and in terms of the facilities and footprint of the location.

“We are referred to as a well-kept secret, one of the area’s hidden gems, but now is the time for us to showcase and demonstrate how proud we are of the incredible work that’s taken place here, because it is truly outstanding.”

Mr Griffiths added: “I am thrilled to have joined the team here at St Gerard’s, it is a school steeped in history and tradition with a vision very much based on sustainability, progress, and innovation.

“That combination will lead to further growth on and educational level but also as part of the community, among our industry partners and the children and families it serves.

“Proposals for new sports pitches, tennis courts and other plans could also lead to us capitalising on commercial opportunities, as there is demand for these facilities locally.

“Ultimately, however, the education of the pupils is paramount, we are focused on that and building on the school’s fantastic reputation.”

Educating Welsh and English-speaking children from the ages of four to 18 years old, St Gerard’s had a busy summer period, joining the national Blue Light Programme – which provides a discounted provision for emergency service workers – and there has been a major overhaul of the gardens and grounds to cater for the health wellbeing of staff and learners.

The school is also approved by the MoD (Ministry of Defence) and for generations has been a source of inspiration and support to parents and carers in multiple industries, notably health, engineering, the military – given its proximity to bases including RAF Valley – and higher education.

For Mr Harrison, shining a light on the school’s “there for all” ethos, striving for excellence but not at the expense of a pupil’s welfare and happiness, is pivotal.

“I think what sets us apart is how personal the journey is,” he said.

“We sit down with parents for the first time and ask them what they want for their child, what their priorities are, whether it’s grades, a certain career, or for them to be safe and confident, to build character, resilience and do their very best.

“Given our approach, the size of classes and connection we have with our learners, we can achieve these things, because we know they are all different, they have different ambitions and needs – and we meet them consistently.”

Mr Harrison added: “Like so many schools and sectors we faced our challenges during the pandemic, but we are in a positive place and in a position to grow, stronger than ever.”

For more on Ysgol St Gerard’s, visit the website www.st-gerards.org and follow them on social media. Alternatively, email sgadmin@st-gerards.org or call 01248 351656.

News

£20m cheese factory first in the UK to unveil electric milk truck ahead of major factory expansion

A CUTTING-EDGE cheese factory that runs entirely on renewable energy is set to go even greener thanks to an electrifying new partnership.

Mona Dairy is a headline sponsor of this week’s Anglesey Show and plans to unveil the UK’s first BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) tractor and trailer for milk haulage in front of special guests including Ynys Mon MP Virginia Crosbie, and Mark Spencer, Minister of State for Food, Farming and Fisheries of United Kingdom.

The 25,000 sq ft factory on Mona Industrial Park opened this summer and is already undergoing a multi-million pound expansion.

Managing Director Ronald Akkerman says the move will increase their capacity to eventually produce more than 30,000 tons of Welsh and continental cheese every year.

And with their focus firmly on lowering the site’s carbon footprint still further, the switch to electric vehicles for milk collection will help them on the road to achieving net zero status.

“We are proud to have been the first dairy in the UK to introduce the Volvo BEV HGV tractor and trailer combination, it’s the first step towards the complete decarbonisation of our transport,” said Ronald.

“Electric trucks are much quieter for communities, for our drivers and for the farms that we collect milk from, which is especially important for night-time collections.

“The pumping system on our trailer is also electric, allowing for much faster and very quiet loading of milk on farm. The Welsh countryside is a perfect match for a BEV tractor unit, as it will recover a lot of energy from braking and converts it into the electrical power that charges the vehicle’s battery.”

Ynys Mon MP Virginia Crosbie added: “Mona Dairy is one of the most forward-thinking businesses on Anglesey, creating jobs and supporting the local economy while being at the forefront of advances in agriculture and sustainable food production.

“This latest development and move towards decarbonisation of its milk collection fleet is another first for the UK.

“All this fits in with my priorities of attracting investment and jobs to Ynys Mon in these growing and key industries that will be underpinned by the island’s new freeport status.

“I am fully supportive and thankful to Mona Dairy for the innovation shown in working towards net zero status while leading the way for the manufacturing industry in Wales and beyond.”

Speaking on behalf of Volvo and dealership Thomas Hardie Commercials, Key Account Manager David Hill said the truck has a range of 190 miles (300 km) and includes three electric motors, generating 666 HP and has six batteries, containing 540kWh of energy.

He added: “We are delighted to be involved in supplying an FM 4×2 fully electric tractor unit to Mona Dairy to demonstrate a net zero approach to the collection and transportation of milk from farms to the factory for cheese production.

“The vehicle will run for two weeks to prove the concept and results of the trial will enable Mona Dairy to confidently move forwards with the project.”

For more news and information, visit the website: www.monadairy.com and follow @monadairywales on social media.