St Helen’s stadium revival plan unveiled as Swansea Council moves ahead amid Ospreys uncertainty

Council leader Rob Stewart said the future of the ground had been held back by unresolved questions around Welsh rugby.

“The future of St Helen’s has been on hold due to ongoing discussions about regional rugby in Wales which are unlikely to end anytime soon,” he said.

“The WRU is not giving us the answers we need to move forward despite our requests, such as how Y11 can own two teams for a long period of time. In light of the impending EGM, I doubt the WRU knows where it is going.”

Moving ahead despite uncertainty

Stewart said Swansea must now act rather than wait for clarity from the Welsh Rugby Union.

“We must break that deadlock in the meantime and find how we can move forward as a city despite the WRU’s lack of answers,” he said.

“We propose to create a new model that strengthens both professional and grassroots rugby across Swansea and the Ospreys region.”

New vision for St Helen’s

The plans would see St Helen’s redeveloped into a modern rugby venue centred on a new all-weather 4G pitch. The surface would be used by the Ospreys for matchdays and weekly team run-outs, while also being opened up to Swansea RFC, schools, clubs and community groups for the rest of the week.

Stewart said the aim is to create a facility that serves both elite sport and the wider community.

“Our joint investment would give the Ospreys a home worthy of professional rugby while opening up this iconic ground to the community like never before.”

Under the proposed model, the council would fund key community-focused upgrades including the pitch and floodlights, while the Ospreys would deliver professional-level improvements such as a new stand, fan zone and broadcast facilities.

Focus on grassroots rugby

The proposals also include a significant expansion of community rugby activity, with the Ospreys expected to deliver club nights, school sessions, open training events and coaching development opportunities.

“For the first time in many years, children and young people will have access to a safe, modern, central facility — whatever the weather,” Stewart said.

“This model strengthens the player pathway by linking clubs, schools, colleges and the Ospreys Academy.”

A new Swansea Rugby Community Board is also proposed to help ensure the redevelopment delivers long-term benefits for local people, while former Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones has agreed to work with the council on the project.

Ospreys return in sight

The Ospreys say they have been working with the council for months on the proposals and believe the plan could allow them to return to Swansea as early as next season while expanding their community work.

Stewart added: “This continues our support for the Ospreys remaining as a professional rugby region based in Swansea.”

Decision within days

The proposals are due to be considered by the council’s cabinet this week, with work potentially starting in April if approved.

The council has also confirmed its legal action over the WRU’s proposed Y11 deal is continuing — underlining the wider uncertainty surrounding the future of Welsh rugby.

Ospreys crisis: key stories

Swansea unites as Ospreys crisis deepens
Councillors back the region amid growing fears over its future.

Council takes legal action over WRU deal
High Court move aims to block a plan that could end the Ospreys.

‘Smoking gun’ minutes revealed
Documents fuel claims the region’s future was already decided.

WRU sets date for crunch showdown
Emergency meeting could shape the future of Welsh rugby.

Alun Wyn Jones warns of ‘rugby black hole’
Legend speaks out over fears for the region’s future.

WRU boss quits before key vote
Leadership turmoil adds to growing pressure on the union.

Katherine Jenkins celebrates St David’s Day with celebrity friends and her Swansea-based gin brand

The annual celebration, which has become a highlight of the Welsh social calendar, was held at The Chancery Rosewood hotel in London on Monday evening — the eve of St David’s Day itself.

The guest list read like a who’s who of Welsh celebrity, with Carol Vorderman — who was awarded an honorary doctorate by Swansea University last year — among those raising a glass to Wales.

Strictly Come Dancing fan favourite Amy Dowden, Steps singer Ian ‘H’ Watkins, TV presenter Alex Jones, former Wales rugby captain Alun Wyn Jones OBE, Wales football captain Ben Davies, bass baritone Sir Bryn Terfel, composer Sir Karl Jenkins, and singer-songwriter Jack Savoretti were also in attendance.

The evening was described as a blend of “warmth, music and genuine national pride”, with guests treated to Welsh-inspired cuisine and a traditional Welsh harp performance.

The night’s entertainment culminated in a surprise performance by RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star Catrin Feelings, who wowed the crowd in a traditional Welsh costume.

Katherine herself looked striking in a red Rebecca Vallance dress — a deliberate nod to the national colours of Wales.

At the heart of the evening was Cygnet Gin, the ultra-premium gin brand co-founded by Katherine and her husband, professor and film-maker Andrew Levitas. Guests enjoyed Cygnet 22 Martinis, Cygnet G&Ts and Cygnet 77 Old Fashioneds throughout the night.

Cygnet is distilled at the Cygnet Distillery in SA1, Swansea, and has rapidly established itself as one of the most decorated gin brands in the world. Earlier this year, it made its Hollywood debut as the official gin partner for the 83rd Annual Golden Globes — a milestone Katherine marked on the red carpet in Los Angeles.

The brand’s flagship expression, Cygnet 22, is crafted using 22 botanicals and Manuka honey, and is presented in a hand-blown, hand-constructed decanter called “Eirlys” — the Welsh word for snowdrop. It was named sole gin winner at The Spirits Business Luxury Masters 2024.

Cygnet’s newest launch, Cygnet Infinity — the brand’s first non-alcoholic expression — recently won a Gold Medal at The Spirits Business Low & No Masters 2026.

Speaking about the evening, Katherine said:

“St David’s Day creates a deep sense of pride in where I come from, in the language, the landscape, the music, the warmth of the people. Wales shaped me long before the world stage ever did. Saint David lived simply, preached kindness and said “Gwnewch y pethau bychain” — “do the little things”, I love that.

“Greatness doesn’t always arrive with noise; often it’s found in humility and small daily acts of goodness. That ethos feels very Welsh: hardworking, grounded, quietly strong.”

The evening also served as a platform for Katherine to announce her upcoming 25th anniversary tour, which will see her perform at venues across the UK later this year. Tickets are on sale now.

It is the latest in a string of high-profile events for the Neath-born singer, who has used her platform to champion Welsh talent and culture on the world stage. Last year, she hosted a midsummer celebration of Welsh excellence at Swansea’s copperworks distillery, bringing together some of the biggest names in Welsh public life.

Alun Wyn Jones warns WRU’s Ospreys plan would leave a rugby ‘black hole’ across Swansea Bay

Jones, the most‑capped player in international rugby history with 170 Tests for Wales and the Lions, told the Daily Mail the WRU is “badly out of step” with supporters and risks tearing apart the communities that built the modern game.

‘If you lose people, what do you have?’

The former Wales captain — born in Swansea, raised in Mumbles, and awarded the Honorary Freedom of the City in 2019 — said the Ospreys crisis strikes at the heart of the region he has represented his entire life.

“It’s clear there’s a big divide between most supporters and the WRU,” he said, adding that the governing body “doesn’t seem aligned internally” and has failed to communicate properly with Ospreys players and staff.

“Rugby’s essence is its teams, its people. If you lose them, what do you have?”

Jones warned that removing the Ospreys would devastate the entire rugby chain across Swansea, Neath, Port Talbot and Bridgend — including the historic clubs that feed the region and the schools and colleges that produce its players.

A crisis spiralling across Swansea Bay

His comments land as the Ospreys saga intensifies by the day. Swansea Council has already united behind an emergency motion demanding answers from the WRU, MPs have accused the governing body of a “stitch‑up”, and Hollywood actor Michael Sheen has publicly urged a rethink.

Behind the scenes, talks have taken place over a potential Ospreys return to St Helen’s next season, even as the region’s leadership publicly rejected claims they had “no future”. The WRU’s confirmation that Cardiff Rugby is to be sold to Y11 — leaving the Ospreys with no guarantees beyond next year — has only deepened the uncertainty.

Jones said the fallout would stretch far beyond one badge.

“It’s not just the Ospreys at risk. It’s also Neath, Swansea, Bridgend and Aberavon — the clubs that feed the region.”

‘They’re as bad as each other at the minute’

In a rare moment of blunt honesty, Jones said both the WRU and the regions share responsibility for the mess Welsh rugby now finds itself in.

“We’ve seen infighting between the WRU and the regions in the past. I think they’re as bad as each other at the minute.”

He warned that the WRU’s three‑team plan is a “short‑term fix” that ignores the long‑term health of the sport and risks hollowing out one of Welsh rugby’s most important heartlands.

“If the Ospreys go, we’ll have a black hole from the Loughor Bridge all the way up to Bridgend where there won’t be a professional rugby team. Rugby could potentially diminish there.”

What the WRU’s plan means for Swansea Bay

What is the WRU proposing?
The governing body wants to cut the men’s professional game from four regions to three, leaving the Ospreys as the team most at risk beyond next season.

Why are the Ospreys vulnerable?
The WRU has approved the sale of Cardiff Rugby to Y11, creating a new ownership model that leaves the Ospreys without long‑term guarantees and exposed to restructuring.

What would it mean for Swansea, Neath and Port Talbot?
Removing the Ospreys would break the player pathway across Swansea Bay, affecting schools, colleges and historic clubs including Swansea, Neath, Bridgend and Aberavon.

What political pressure is the WRU facing?
Swansea Council has passed an emergency motion, MPs have accused the WRU of a “stitch‑up”, and actor Michael Sheen has urged the governing body to rethink.

What happens next?
The WRU is expected to make a final decision on the future of the regions later this year, leaving the Ospreys and their supporters waiting for clarity.

A legend still fighting for his region

Jones may be retired, but his voice still carries enormous weight — especially in Swansea Bay, where he remains one of the city’s most celebrated sons. His Freedom of the City honour recognised not just his achievements, but his role as an ambassador for the place that shaped him.

Now, as the WRU prepares to make a decision that could reshape Welsh rugby for a generation, Jones has made his position unmistakably clear.

And with political pressure mounting, supporter anger rising, and the Ospreys’ future still hanging in the balance, his warning may be the loudest alarm bell yet.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Ospreys legends unite to demand WRU rethink
Former players — including Alun Wyn Jones — called on the WRU to abandon plans that threaten the region’s future.

Swansea Council unites as Ospreys crisis deepens
Councillors delivered a rare cross‑party show of support for the Ospreys amid growing uncertainty.

Emergency motion tabled over Ospreys future
Swansea Council’s leader demanded urgent clarity from the WRU as concern mounted across the city.

Michael Sheen urges WRU to rethink Ospreys plan
The actor warned the WRU that removing a region would damage communities across south Wales.

Talks confirmed over potential St Helen’s return
The Ospreys and Swansea Council discussed a move back to the historic ground next season.

Ospreys boss blasts claims region has ‘no future’
The region’s leadership hit back at suggestions the Ospreys were already finished.

MPs accuse WRU of ‘stitch‑up’
Westminster politicians criticised the WRU’s handling of the regional shake‑up.

Swansea Council blasts WRU over Ospreys threat
The council warned the WRU that removing the Ospreys would devastate the city’s rugby pathway.

Ospreys chief breaks silence after WRU confirms Cardiff sale
The region responded after the WRU approved Y11’s takeover of Cardiff Rugby.

WRU confirms Cardiff sale as Ospreys face uncertainty
The governing body set out its plan for Cardiff Rugby, leaving the Ospreys’ long‑term future unclear.

Ospreys legends unite to demand WRU rethink over club’s future

The move comes amid growing fears that the Ospreys could be cut from the top tier after the Welsh Rugby Union named Y11 Sport & Media — the club’s current owners — as the preferred buyer for rivals Cardiff.

The WRU wants to reduce the number of men’s professional teams in Wales from four to three. But former players say the proposals risk triggering a “downward spiral” and threaten the future of rugby across Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend.

In a statement signed by dozens of ex‑players, coaches and staff, the group praised current head coach Mark Jones and his squad for their “absolute commitment” despite the uncertainty — and warned that cutting a team “comes with no guarantee of success”.

“You don’t quit because you didn’t win,” the statement said. “You work harder, adapt, change and rebuild.”

The group includes Ryan Jones, James Hook, Barry Williams, Ian Gough, Richard Hibbard, Paul James, Tommy Bowe and former coach Sean Holley. They say the time is right to speak up — and they’re willing to meet the WRU to help shape a “positive future” for the sport.

They argue that Welsh rugby’s golden era — including six Six Nations titles and four Grand Slams — was built on four strong teams, and that removing one now would be a mistake.

“What the game needs is confidence, consistency and collaboration,” they said. “Not constant shifts in direction, where four teams, then two, then three are all presented as the ‘optimal’ solution within a single year.”

The statement also backs Swansea Council Leader Rob Stewart’s call to halt the process, warning that the redevelopment of St Helen’s is at risk and that support for the WRU’s proposals is “lacking across the wider Welsh rugby community”.

The group drew comparisons with Connacht, the Irish region once earmarked for closure in 2003. After public opposition forced a rethink, Connacht went on to win the league and recently celebrated the opening of a redeveloped stadium in Galway.

“It is not too late for the WRU to do the same,” the statement said. “Restoring Welsh rugby will take partnership, not imposition.”

Statement from Former Ospreys

As former Ospreys, we feel the time is right to speak up and show our support for the current players and staff during what is clearly a very difficult and uncertain time. It’s hard to imagine the pressure they’re under, yet they continue to perform with pride in the badge, and absolute commitment — just as we saw again on Saturday.

Mark Jones and his coaching team deserve huge credit for the way they are leading in the middle of all this uncertainty. Unfortunately, both the WRU and Y11 have provided very little clarity about their plans, and even now, after the announcement of a preferred buyer for Cardiff, there is still no real explanation of what this means for the Ospreys.

We support the call made by Swansea Council Leader Rob Stewart for the WRU and Y11 to pause the current process and rethink their approach. What is being proposed puts at risk the future of professional rugby across Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend and the redevelopment of an historic rugby venue at St Helen’s.

It is also important to recognise how little support these proposals appear to have across the wider Welsh rugby community. In particular, Ospreys and Cardiff supporters are united in their opposition and their concern about the future for their respective teams.

Following the restructure in 2003 Welsh rugby enjoyed an incredible period of success, a golden era that compares to any other. Six Six Nations titles, four Grand Slams (more than any other nation in this period) and sustained international competitiveness were built on four strong teams. Three of the four professional teams have lifted major trophies, and only Leinster have won the Celtic League more times than the Ospreys.

Sport always goes in cycles. There are highs and lows, good years and tough years. No team wins everything, all of the time. You don’t quit because you didn’t win. You work harder, adapt, change and rebuild. The challenges are what make the successes more special.

A lack of long-term investment and clear planning by previous regimes has left Welsh rugby in a difficult place. But real progress will only come through working together. Change is needed, but it must be built through partnership, not imposed by one side alone.

Cutting a team comes with no guarantee of future success. We believe it more likely to lead to the opposite scenario, with Welsh rugby caught in a downward spiral.

For many of us, it was impossible not to notice the scenes in Galway at the weekend, where a record crowd celebrated the opening of Connacht’s redeveloped stadium. That happened because when presented with the same challenges the IRFU listened to the weight of public opinion, paused, and changed direction. It is not too late for the WRU to do the same.

We know the road ahead will be bumpy but we firmly believe that Welsh rugby can recover if there is a clear, stable and shared vision. What the game needs is confidence, consistency and collaboration — not constant shifts in direction, where four teams, then two, then three are all presented as the “optimal” solution within a single year.

Between us, we have decades of experience at the highest level of the game and a deep connection to the Ospreys, our community clubs and the national team. We are ready to meet with the WRU, individually or collectively, to share that experience and help shape a positive future for Welsh rugby.

Our Blood Is Black

The Ospreys are currently eighth in the United Rugby Championship and preparing to face Ulster in the last 16 of the Challenge Cup.

More Ospreys News

Swansea Council and Ospreys confirm talks over St Helen’s return
Discussions underway about bringing the region back to its historic home.

Rugby ‘civil war’ as Ospreys boss blasts council
Tensions erupt over claims the region has no long‑term future.

Jones frustrated with Lions result but proud of Ospreys
Head coach praises his side’s fight despite a tough defeat.

MPs accuse WRU of ‘stitch‑up’ as pressure grows
Political scrutiny intensifies over the region’s uncertain future.

Swansea Council blasts WRU over threat to Ospreys
Council leaders warn the shake‑up risks wiping out the region.

Ospreys chief breaks silence after WRU confirms Cardiff sale plan
Y11’s move sparks fresh questions about the region’s future.

WRU confirms plan to sell Cardiff Rugby to Y11
Announcement deepens uncertainty for the Ospreys beyond next season.

Rugby legend Alun Wyn Jones swaps the scrum for the Celebrity MasterChef kitchen

From the pitch to the pass

The 40‑year‑old, who retired from rugby in 2023 after a record‑breaking international career, will be one of 15 famous faces competing for the coveted Celebrity MasterChef trophy.

Jones joins a star‑studded cast including singer Alfie Boe, actor Jamie Lomas, pop star Michelle Heaton, author Dawn O’Porter, and Paralympian Gaz Choudhry. The series will also welcome new judge Grace Dent alongside long‑time host John Torode.

Over five weeks of heats, quarter‑finals and semi‑finals, the celebrities will be pushed far beyond their comfort zones in a bid to impress the judges and secure a place in Finals Week.

A new challenge after rugby

For Jones, the kitchen represents a very different kind of pressure. Since hanging up his boots, the former Ospreys and British & Irish Lions captain has spoken openly about the challenges of adjusting to life after professional sport.

Speaking on the High Performance podcast earlier this year, he admitted:

“I’ve had to learn to live again being around more… When you’ve been told what to eat, what to wear throughout your career you do become institutionalised. It’s a bit like a jigsaw puzzle with no picture on it.”

Jones also revealed he underwent surgery for atrial fibrillation, a heart condition diagnosed at the end of his playing days, and continues to monitor his health closely.

Beyond the game

Since retirement, Jones has combined punditry work for the BBC with a role as Strategic Advisor to Swansea University’s National Network for Innovation in Sport and Health. He has also ventured into the food and drink industry, launching his own coffee‑infused rum liqueur, Mimosa Rwm Espiritu, now stocked in Tesco and Morrisons across Wales.

Cooking up a new chapter

Celebrity MasterChef marks another step in what Jones himself has described as a “career evolution.” While he once led Wales out at Principality Stadium, this autumn he’ll be facing the heat of the MasterChef kitchen — with the same determination that made him one of rugby’s most respected figures.

The 20th series of Celebrity MasterChef will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer later this autumn.

More on Alun Wyn Jones

Alun Wyn Jones champions lifelong learning
The rugby legend took on a new ambassador role for Adult Learners’ Week 2025, encouraging people of all ages to embrace education.

Appointed Honorary Colonel of the Royal Welsh
Jones was honoured with a ceremonial military role, recognising his leadership and service beyond the rugby field.

Joins Swansea University as Strategic Advisor
The former Wales captain began a new chapter in academia, advising on sport and health innovation at Swansea University.

Sends message of support to Welsh rugby team
Jones visited a local Swansea club to inspire the next generation and wish the national side good luck ahead of a major tournament.

#AlunWynJones #BBCOne #BritishAndIrishLions #celebrity #CelebrityMasterchef #cooking #foodDrink #GraceDent #JohnTorode #Masterchef #Rugby #Swansea #WalesRugby

Rugby legend Alun Wyn Jones champions lifelong learning as ambassador for Adult Learners’ Week 2025

The week, which takes place from 15th to 21st September, is run by Learning and Work Institute in partnership with the Welsh Government, and features free courses, events, and taster sessions across Wales.

Last year more than 6,000 people took part in learning at over 600 events held during September, from learning coding and digital skills to playing the ukelele, improving numeracy skills or mastering macrame.

Renowned for his record-breaking rugby career with Wales and the British and Irish Lions, Alun Wyn is also a passionate advocate for education. Alongside his sporting achievements, he holds a law degree from Swansea University and is also learning Welsh. His commitment to personal development earned him an honorary degree from Swansea University, recognising his career achievements both on and off the field.

To mark the launch, he took part in a carpentry adult learning course at Gower College, Swansea, joining fellow learners to highlight the transformative power of education at any stage of life.

Speaking at the launch, Alun Wyn said:

“Learning has always been part of my journey, whether on the pitch, or in the classroom. Qualifying as a solicitor while playing professional rugby was a challenge, but it taught me the value of discipline, curiosity, and resilience.

“Learning Welsh as an adult is another milestone that’s helping me connect more deeply with my heritage and community and I’m proud of the effort I’m putting into studying and practicing it.

“I’m constantly inspired by people who start or continue learning, whether it’s to change careers, gain confidence, or simply explore something new.”

Adult Learners’ Week is Wales’ largest celebration of lifelong learning, aiming to connect people to take the first step towards building new skills and boosting confidence. The campaign encourages more adults to discover a wide range of learning opportunities, to explore their options and try something new whatever their age and stage of life.

Courses are available both online and in-person, running in communities and workplaces across Wales through colleges, universities, museums, libraries, training providers, and community centres.

People living in Wales can take part in Adult Learners’ Week, with many courses available for free or at a reduced cost.  Opportunities can be explored through the Adult Learners’ Week website or by visiting Working Wales, where people can also access personalised advice on learning pathways, financial support, and career guidance.

Joshua Miles, Learning and Work Institute Wales Director, added:

“Alun Wyn Jones embodies the spirit of lifelong learning. His story is a powerful reminder that learning doesn’t stop when formal education ends. We’re thrilled to have him as our ambassador this year, helping us inspire thousands of adults across Wales to take that first step back into learning or continue on their learning journey.

“Every year, we hear incredible stories from people who’ve transformed their lives through adult education – from gaining new qualifications and finding employment, to building confidence and reconnecting with their communities. Adult Learners’ Week is about celebrating those journeys and making sure everyone knows that learning is for them, no matter their age, background, or starting point.

“Throughout September there will be taster sessions, workshops, webinars, and open days, making it easy for people to try something new.

“From beginner-level to advanced qualifications, the courses are inclusive and accessible to everyone in Wales who wants to learn something new.”

The campaign is part of a broader Welsh Government commitment to skills development and inclusive education.

Lynne Neagle, Cabinet Secretary for Education, praised the initiative:

“Adult Learners’ Week is about unlocking potential, no matter your age or background or previous experience. It’s about giving people the tools to thrive and inspiring them to never stop learning.

“Everyone should have the opportunity to take a change of direction and renew their career at whatever stage of life they are at. I’ve recently had the opportunity myself to study counselling. The experience has reminded me of the power of lifelong learning.”

For more information on free Welsh taster courses and to get involved in other learning opportunities, search ‘Working Wales Adult Learners’ Week’.

[Lead image: Adrian White]

#AdultLearnersWeek #AlunWynJones #GowerCollegeSwansea #SwanseaUniversity

Rugby legend Alun Wyn Jones champions lifelong learning as ambassador for Adult Learners’ Week 2025

The week, which takes place from 15th to 21st September, is run by Learning and Work Institute in partnership with the Welsh Government, and features free courses, events, and taster sessions across Wales.

Last year more than 6,000 people took part in learning at over 600 events held during September, from learning coding and digital skills to playing the ukelele, improving numeracy skills or mastering macrame.

Renowned for his record-breaking rugby career with Wales and the British and Irish Lions, Alun Wyn is also a passionate advocate for education. Alongside his sporting achievements, he holds a law degree from Swansea University and is also learning Welsh. His commitment to personal development earned him an honorary degree from Swansea University, recognising his career achievements both on and off the field.

To mark the launch, he took part in a carpentry adult learning course at Gower College, Swansea, joining fellow learners to highlight the transformative power of education at any stage of life.

Speaking at the launch, Alun Wyn said:

“Learning has always been part of my journey, whether on the pitch, or in the classroom. Qualifying as a solicitor while playing professional rugby was a challenge, but it taught me the value of discipline, curiosity, and resilience.

“Learning Welsh as an adult is another milestone that’s helping me connect more deeply with my heritage and community and I’m proud of the effort I’m putting into studying and practicing it.

“I’m constantly inspired by people who start or continue learning, whether it’s to change careers, gain confidence, or simply explore something new.”

Adult Learners’ Week is Wales’ largest celebration of lifelong learning, aiming to connect people to take the first step towards building new skills and boosting confidence. The campaign encourages more adults to discover a wide range of learning opportunities, to explore their options and try something new whatever their age and stage of life.

Courses are available both online and in-person, running in communities and workplaces across Wales through colleges, universities, museums, libraries, training providers, and community centres.

People living in Wales can take part in Adult Learners’ Week, with many courses available for free or at a reduced cost.  Opportunities can be explored through the Adult Learners’ Week website or by visiting Working Wales, where people can also access personalised advice on learning pathways, financial support, and career guidance.

Joshua Miles, Learning and Work Institute Wales Director, added:

“Alun Wyn Jones embodies the spirit of lifelong learning. His story is a powerful reminder that learning doesn’t stop when formal education ends. We’re thrilled to have him as our ambassador this year, helping us inspire thousands of adults across Wales to take that first step back into learning or continue on their learning journey.

“Every year, we hear incredible stories from people who’ve transformed their lives through adult education – from gaining new qualifications and finding employment, to building confidence and reconnecting with their communities. Adult Learners’ Week is about celebrating those journeys and making sure everyone knows that learning is for them, no matter their age, background, or starting point.

“Throughout September there will be taster sessions, workshops, webinars, and open days, making it easy for people to try something new.

“From beginner-level to advanced qualifications, the courses are inclusive and accessible to everyone in Wales who wants to learn something new.”

The campaign is part of a broader Welsh Government commitment to skills development and inclusive education.

Lynne Neagle, Cabinet Secretary for Education, praised the initiative:

“Adult Learners’ Week is about unlocking potential, no matter your age or background or previous experience. It’s about giving people the tools to thrive and inspiring them to never stop learning.

“Everyone should have the opportunity to take a change of direction and renew their career at whatever stage of life they are at. I’ve recently had the opportunity myself to study counselling. The experience has reminded me of the power of lifelong learning.”

For more information on free Welsh taster courses and to get involved in other learning opportunities, search ‘Working Wales Adult Learners’ Week’.

[Lead image: Adrian White]

#AdultLearnersWeek #AlunWynJones #GowerCollegeSwansea #SwanseaUniversity

Jiffy’s Cancer 50 Challenge raises thousands for cancer care in South Wales

Led by Welsh rugby legend Jonathan “Jiffy” Davies, the 50-mile charity ride began at Cardiff City Stadium and finished at the Lighthouse in Bracelet Bay, Mumbles. The event is on track to hit its £50,000 fundraising target, with every penny supporting the South West Wales Cancer Centre at Singleton Hospital and Velindre Hospital in Cardiff.

Riders set off early, passing through Vale and Glamorgan lanes, skirting Porthcawl and Port Talbot before reaching Swansea. After a refreshment stop at the Secret Bar and Kitchen on Mumbles Road, the group completed the final stretch around the bay, arriving to cheers from family, friends and supporters.

Among the participants was fellow rugby great Alun Wyn-Jones, joining a diverse group of riders united by a shared cause.

Jiffy, whose late wife received care at one of the centres, said:

“Both of these charities mean a lot to me. The support they offer to patients and families across Wales is truly exceptional. They fund care, services, and projects that provide comfort and hope when people need it most.”

Individual fundraising efforts also made a big impact, with Richard Morgan raising £4,078 and Team Rhondda Tri contributing £1,038.

Lewis Bradley, Support Manager for Swansea Bay Health Charity, said:

“We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our sponsors Andrew Scott Ltd and UPRISE BIKES, to our volunteers, marshals, event organisers, medics, our friends at Velindre Cancer Charity, and every single person whose enthusiasm and commitment made the day an unforgettable one.”

Early bird registration is now open for Jiffy’s Cancer 50 Challenge 2026.

Swansea Bay Health Charity is the official charity of Swansea Bay University Health Board, supporting pioneering research, equipment, facilities and staff development across the region’s NHS services.

To learn more or donate, visit Swansea Bay Health Charity

#AlunWynJones #BraceletBay #Cancer #cancer50Challenge #cycling #fundraising #Jiffy #JonathanDavies #Mumbles #SingletonHospital #SouthWestWalesCancerCentre #SwanseaBayNHS #VelindreHospital

Alun Wyn Jones appointed Honorary Colonel of 3rd Battalion The Royal Welsh

The appointment marks a new chapter for the world’s most capped rugby player, who earned 170 international caps between 2006 and 2023 and captained Wales through some of its most successful campaigns. Jones succeeds Brigadier Russ Wardle OBE DL, who held the role for over a decade.

“It is an honour for us to bring into the fold a true Welsh warrior,” said Major General Chris Barry CBE, Colonel of the Regiment. “We look forward to building a long-lasting, two-way relationship between our 3rd Battalion and Alun Wyn Jones.”

A new uniform, a familiar sense of duty

Jones, who will wear military uniform in his new role, described himself as “hugely flattered and humbled” — and “a little apprehensive” — about the responsibility. He reflected on the symbolic presence of military personnel at Welsh rugby matches and the deep historical ties between the sport and the armed forces.

“Learning more about the history of The Royal Welsh, particularly Sir Tasker Watkins, made it something I couldn’t turn down,” he said. “The uniform I’ll wear will be very different to what I’m used to, but one I’ll be equally proud to wear as any jersey in my playing career.”

The 3rd Battalion is a Reserve unit, and Jones noted his growing awareness of the role Reservists play in everyday civilian life — a theme that resonates with his own transition from elite sport to public service.

A legacy of leadership

Jones’ rugby career includes five Six Nations titles, three Grand Slams, and four Triple Crowns, along with 12 Lions caps across four tours. He was named Player of the Tournament in 2019 and twice nominated for World Player of the Year.

#AlunWynJones #ArmedForces #HMKingCharlesIII #RoyalWelsh #Rugby

Swansea independent school Oakleigh House to close

A spokesperson for Cognita said: “This week we shared some difficult news with our families and staff about the proposal to close Oakleigh House School.

“We carried out a comprehensive review of the school’s sustainability in light of local demographic trends and a changing economic environment, which sadly concluded that pupil numbers are expected to continue to fall to an unsustainable level in the next academic year.

“We will do everything we can to support our families and staff and help our current pupils find alternative school places should the decision be taken to close.”

Situated in the Uplands area of Swansea, adjoining Cwmdonkin Park, Oakleigh House is a co-educational independent primary school for children aged 2 and a half to 11 years. It is the only independent prep school in the city that takes children of these ages, with fees ranging from £3,736 a term for reception to £4,492 a term for children in year six.

Established in 1919, the school has a number of prominent former pupils, including former Conservative Cabinet Member Michael Heseltine; Comedian and politician Suzie Eddie Izzard and Wales Rugby legend Alun Wyn Jones.

The school is being marketed by agents BP2 Commercial Property for offers in excess of £575,000 with the potential for future redevelopment.

#AlunWynJones #Cognita #CwmdonkinPark #education #independentSchool #MichaelHeseltine #OakleighHouseSchool #SuzieEddieIzzard #Swansea #Uplands