Sinkhole forces road closure in Swansea’s Bryn-y-Mor Road

Swansea Council confirmed the closure in a statement issued at 1pm on Saturday, November 22. The affected stretch runs between Walter Road and King Edward Road, and is expected to remain closed for several days while investigations are carried out.

Drivers are being advised to use alternative routes, although surrounding roads remain open. Residents at the northern end of Bryn-y-Mor Road can still access their properties on foot.

A council spokesperson said:

“The road will be closed over the coming days while investigations are carried out and drivers are asked to use other routes.

“Surrounding roads are not affected and residents at the northern end of Bryn y Mor road will still be able to access their properties on foot as usual.

“We appreciate your patience and we will update you when we have more information.”

South Wales Police attended the scene alongside council officers and utility crews. Traffic Wales and First Cymru have also been notified.

#brynYMorRoad #featured #motoring #roadClosure #sinkhole #swansea

The 15 hottest toys this Christmas – and how Swansea kids can win them all

The DreamToys 2025 list is the annual forecast by the Toy Retailers Association of the must‑have toys, gadgets and games that kids will want under the Christmas tree this year.

Selected by an independent panel of toy retailers and toy experts — from small independents to large national chains — the list is described as the most authoritative prediction of what are expected to be the hottest new toys on the high street for the festive season.

Families in Swansea are being offered the chance to win all 15 toys tipped to be the biggest sellers this Christmas, thanks to a festive giveaway at Smyths Toys in St David’s Retail Park.

Paul Reader, Chairman of the Toy Retailers Association, said the competition was designed to bring “seasonal cheer” to families and encourage people to shop locally in the run‑up to Christmas.

To enter, families just need to visit Smyths’ Swansea store before midnight on Wednesday 10 December and scan the QR code in‑store. The winner will collect their prize between Saturday 13 and Sunday 21 December.

The 15 must‑have toys this Christmas

Here’s a closer look at some of the toys tipped to be this year’s biggest hits:

#christmas #christmasGifts #christmasToys #competition #hottestChristmasToysFor2025 #mustHaveToys #retail #smythsToys #stDavidsRetailPark #swansea #toyRetailersAssociation #toyStore #toys

Swansea’s Catherine Zeta‑Jones celebrates 25 years of marriage to Michael Douglas

Posting a series of photos of the couple over the years, Zeta‑Jones wrote: “I love you today as I did then.” Douglas shared his own message to “my darling Catherine”, adding with humour: “Who knew?”

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The pair married at a star‑studded ceremony at New York’s Plaza Hotel on 18 November 2000, two years after meeting at a film festival in France. Douglas’ now‑famous opening line to Zeta‑Jones was: “I want to be the father of your children.” She later recalled her response as a polite goodnight — but admitted years later that he was right.

The couple have two children, Dylan and Carys, and Zeta‑Jones has often spoken of how people doubted their marriage would last. Earlier this year she described reaching the milestone as “really quite thrilling.”

Douglas has regularly travelled to Wales with his wife, saying he is enamoured by the people and countryside, though he once joked about the “brutal” weather. In 2019 he joined Zeta‑Jones in Swansea when she was awarded the honorary freedom of the City and County, an honour she described as “a real privilege.”

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Zeta‑Jones began her career on the London stage before starring in The Darling Buds of May in the early 1990s. She went on to achieve international acclaim, winning an Academy Award for Chicago in 2003 and a Tony Award for her Broadway debut in A Little Night Music. In 2010 she was appointed a CBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Her Swansea roots remain central to her story, with the city proudly celebrating one of its most famous daughters as she and Douglas mark a quarter of a century together.

#catherineZetaJones #celebrity #michaelDouglas #swansea

New footage shows moment vandal‑prone Swansea speed camera is painted over with a paintbrush on a stick

The footage captures a man in a white painter’s boiler suit with his hood up climbing a ladder to reach the camera on Llangyfelach Road in Treboeth. He uses a paintbrush attached to a pole to smear red paint across the main lens before climbing down to cover the lower lenses.

As previously reported by Swansea Bay News, the newly installed camera was found daubed in red paint just days after being installed. The device itself had only just been put back in place after its predecessor was cut down with an angle grinder in a brazen attack that shocked residents and raised questions about the vulnerability of road safety enforcement equipment.

South Wales Police told Swansea Bay News that the footage had not previously been reported to them, and confirmed they are now reviewing the incident. Officers are expected to issue a fuller statement once they have assessed the video evidence.

The attack has reignited debate about speed cameras in Swansea. Our earlier coverage of the grinder attack drew more than 360 comments, with the vast majority of readers expressing delight that the device had been damaged. Many criticised speed cameras as “money‑making machines” rather than casualty‑preventing tools, reflecting a deep hostility towards enforcement measures on local roads.

GoSafe, the Welsh Road Casualty Reduction Partnership responsible for speed enforcement, says cameras are placed at sites with a history of collisions or where speeding is a concern.

A spokesperson explained:

“Our cameras are there to encourage people to drive within the speed limits and keep everyone using our roads safe. The most successful cameras are the ones that see the least number of offences, not the most.”

GoSafe stresses that enforcement sites are chosen using Welsh Government guidance, and that cameras are intended to reduce casualties, not generate income.

#gosafe #llangyfelachRoad #motoring #roadSafety #southWalesPolice #speedCamera #speeding #swansea #treboeth #vandalisedSpeedCamera

Free bus travel returns for Swansea’s Christmas Parade weekend after strike suspension

The council says its popular free bus initiative — which it claims has already clocked up more than a million journeys in recent years — will run on Saturday 22 November and Sunday 23 November, helping tens of thousands of people get to the parade more easily.

Strike suspension clears way for festive travel

The Unite union confirmed on Tuesday that strike action at First Cymru had been put on hold following an improved pay offer to drivers. Swansea Council has said this decision means services will run as normal this weekend, allowing the authority to reinstate its free bus scheme in time for the parade.

Council Leader Rob Stewart described the development as “great news”:

“This year’s parade promises to be the best ever and I want to thank everyone involved for getting the show on the road. It is great news that buses will be running this Sunday after all, following news that the First Cymru bus services industrial action has been put on hold. It means that we can offer free bus rides at the weekend. It’s a brilliant early festive present for local families on what will be a great curtain‑raiser to the Christmas season in the city centre.”

How the free travel works

According to the council, the offer applies only to journeys that start and finish within Swansea. Free travel will be available until 7pm on Saturday and until 9pm on Sunday, giving families extra time to get home after the parade.

Parade details and parking

The council has confirmed the parade begins at 5pm on Sunday, starting from the Guildhall for the first time in several years. Santa will light up the building in red and green before setting off, with fireworks marking the start of the procession.

Officials say two extra car parks — at the Civic Centre and the Recreation Ground — will be open on Sunday to accommodate visitors, each charging £5 per vehicle. Drivers coming from the west are advised by the council to use these sites, while those arriving from the east can use the usual city centre car parks.

The Fabian Way Park and Ride will not operate this year, but East Burrows car park and the wider city centre network remain available.

The parade will culminate with another fireworks display and the Christmas lights switch‑on at the tree near the Dragon Hotel.

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#christmas #christmasBuses #christmasParade #festiveFireworks #firstCymruStrikeSuspension #freeBus #freeBusTravelSwansea #guildhallSwansea #robStewart #swansea #swanseaChristmasParade #swanseaChristmasParade2025 #swanseaCityCentreChristmas #swanseaCouncil #swanseaVictorianChristmasFayre #victorianChristmasFayreSwansea

Swans legends and city dignitaries mark opening of The Swansea Jack sports bar

The Swansea Jack, located on Little Wind Street, welcomed its first customers on Wednesday afternoon (19 November), offering fans a dedicated space to celebrate the club’s heritage, watch live sport, and connect with fellow supporters.

The venue takes its name from the original Swansea Jack pub near the old Vetch Field, a matchday favourite for generations of fans. Its modern incarnation aims to revive that spirit with big screens, club memorabilia, and regular appearances from Swans legends.

Familiar faces at launch

A pre-launch event held the night before saw a mix of former players, civic leaders and venue partners gather to mark the opening.

Among those attending were Lee Trundle, Àngel Rangel, and Matthew Bound, alongside The Lord Mayor of Swansea Cheryl Philpott, High Sheriff Diana Sara Stroia, and Mal Pope.

Venue owner Dal Dhillon said the response from fans had been immediate:

“We’re delighted with the reaction since opening The Swansea Jack. Our aim has always been to create a true home for Swansea City supporters — a place where the club’s heritage is celebrated and where fans can come together to enjoy unforgettable matchday and non-matchday experiences.”

Club-backed and fan-focused

Swansea City AFC has formally recognised The Swansea Jack as its official sports bar. Club CEO Tom Gorringe said the venue was a welcome addition to the city centre:

“We are pleased to see The Swansea Jack open its doors as the club’s official sports bar right in the heart of Swansea City Centre. We believe the venue celebrates the history and identity of Swansea City in a way that truly resonates with our supporters.”

What fans can expect

Inside, visitors will find a mix of live sport, Swansea City content, and a full food and drink menu. The venue says it plans to host regular events featuring current and former players, with the goal of making it a year-round destination for fans — not just on matchdays.

The Swansea Jack is now open to the public. More information is available at www.theswanseajack.com.

#littleWindStreet #pub #sportsBar #swansea #swanseaCityCentre #swanseaCityFc #theSwanseaJack #windStreet

Carmarthenshire and Swansea lottery winners help ToyBox Project spread Christmas magic

Chris and Geraldine Bradley from Carmarthen, who won £3.5 million on Lotto, and Jeffrey and Davinia Pritchard from Carmarthenshire, who scooped £1 million on EuroMillions Millionaire Maker, were among those lending a hand. They were joined by Swansea couple Darren and Gemma Burfitt, who won on the EuroMillions Millionaire Maker last year.

The trio of local winners were part of a wider team of National Lottery winners from across Wales and the UK who came together to support the volunteer‑led project, which has received £144,800 from the National Lottery Community Fund.

Local winners give back

The ToyBox Project collects pre‑loved and new toys for families in need, with demand expected to double this Christmas. More than 1,500 children are set to receive gifts this festive season, with volunteers working to ensure no child misses out.

Darren and Gemma Burfitt said:

“Christmas is magical for all children, ours included, and ToyBox helps keep that magic alive for those who may have nothing or very little to open.”

Chris and Geraldine Bradley added:

“It’s wonderful to see how much effort goes into making sure children don’t miss out at Christmas. Being able to give back in this way is really special.”

A growing project

Since its launch in 2020, ToyBox has supported thousands of families across South Wales. In 2024 alone, the project provided toys to more than 9,000 children.

James Morgan from ToyBox Project said:

“The National Lottery winners’ energy and enthusiasm have really brought the Christmas spirit alive. Having this extra help will set us up for the Christmas rush and ensure many more children have a magical surprise to open.”

ToyBox welcomes donations of toys, time and financial support to help meet rising demand.

#allwyn #caerphilly #carmarthenshire #charity #christmas #christmasGifts #euromillions #lotteryWinner #nationalLottery #nationalLotteryWinners #swansea #toyboxProject #toys

Opening date confirmed for Swansea’s new Y Storfa hub

According to Swansea Council, the transformation of the former BHS building at the junction of Oxford Street and Princess Way is a key part of its £1bn regeneration programme. The authority says the project is designed to revitalise the city centre and bring services together under one roof.

“Firm opening date before Christmas”

Council Leader Rob Stewart said the opening was a major milestone:

“It’s fantastic that we now have a firm opening date for Y Storfa – and that it’ll be before Christmas. It’ll be a great new facility that’ll help make the city centre an even better place to visit. The great public interest in Y Storfa will mean added footfall for nearby traders as the festive season develops. It’ll be a place where people can come together – to learn, access important services, or take part in community life in a modern and welcoming space.”

Services under one roof

Swansea Council says that when Y Storfa opens, visitors will be able to access the city’s Central Library, which the authority notes will include dedicated areas for children and families. The council also states that the building will house its Housing Options and Housing Support teams, alongside the West Glamorgan Archive Service.

According to the council, Y Storfa will not just feature council services. Careers Wales and Citizens Advice Swansea Neath Port Talbot have confirmed they will have permanent bases in the hub, while Swansea University has said its South Wales Miners’ Library is among the organisations preparing to move in over the coming weeks. The council describes these combined services as making Y Storfa a one‑stop destination for learning, advice, and community support.

Wider regeneration

Swansea Council says the opening of Y Storfa is part of a much broader transformation of the city centre. The authority points to work underway next door at Castle Square, which it describes as being redeveloped into a greener, more welcoming public space. Council leaders also highlight other recent projects they have driven, including the creation of the Swansea Building Society Arena, the redesign of The Kingsway and Wind Street, new office space at 71/72 Kingsway, and the restoration of the historic Palace Theatre.

According to the council, private developers are also investing heavily in the area. Projects cited include the Biophilic Living Building on Oxford Street, the Princess Quarter development, and the revival of the Albert Hall, which the authority says are adding to the momentum of regeneration in the city centre.

Backed by Welsh Government

Funding for Y Storfa has come from the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns programme, with construction led by The Kier Group.

The council says the hub will provide a modern, welcoming environment for residents and visitors, while boosting footfall for city centre traders in the run‑up to Christmas and beyond.

#bhs #castleSquareRedevelopment #centralLibrary #centralLibraryMove #centralLibraryRelocation #centralLibrarySwansea #kierGroup #oxfordStreet #princessWay #swansea #swanseaCentralLibrary #swanseaCouncil #swanseaRegeneration #yStorfa #yStorfaSwansea

Popeyes marks 100th UK store with nationwide giveaway – Swansea fans included

The New Orleans‑born fried chicken chain, which drew 18‑hour queues when it opened in Swansea city centre last month, will hand out 100 free Chicken Sandwiches at every UK restaurant and drive‑thru between 10am and 12pm on Tuesday 25 November.

The giveaway coincides with the launch of Popeyes’ latest site at London Bridge, but the celebrations will be felt across the country – including Swansea, where the brand opened in the former Topshop building on Oxford Street.

Week‑long deal for fans

For those who miss the giveaway, Popeyes is also offering a week‑long deal on its signature Chicken Sandwich, Fries and a Coca‑Cola® drink for just £5.99. The promotion runs from 24–30 November and can be redeemed nationwide through the Popeyes UK app.

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Rapid growth since 2021

Since debuting in the UK in 2021, Popeyes has expanded from its first restaurant in Westfield Stratford to 100 locations in just four years. The company says it has created over 2,000 jobs in the past year alone, with a team expected to reach 3,500 employees by the end of 2025.

Queues around the block have become a hallmark of Popeyes openings, with Swansea’s launch proving no exception. Hundreds of fans lined Oxford Street overnight to be among the first through the doors, echoing scenes seen at other UK sites since the brand’s arrival.

CEO thanks fans

Tom Crowley, CEO at Popeyes UK & Ireland, said:

“Reaching our 100th restaurant is an incredible milestone, and it’s all thanks to our amazing fans across the UK. We can’t wait to thank customers past and present with these giveaways of our most beloved menu item, and give everyone the chance to enjoy a true taste of New Orleans. Here’s to the next 100!”

What happens next

Popeyes lovers in Swansea can head to the Oxford Street restaurant from 10am on Tuesday 25 November to be in with a chance of bagging one of the 100 free Chicken Sandwiches.

The £5.99 Chicken Sandwich, Fries and Coca‑Cola® drink offer will be available all week through the Popeyes UK app.

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#chickenRestaurant #chickenSandwich #foodDrink #friedChicken #oxfordStreet #popeyes #restaurant #swansea #swanseaCityCentre

Swansea’s Drop Bear Beer Co. lands first national supermarket deal with Morrisons

From Monday 24 November, the company’s new Peach Cut Lager will be available in 475 Morrisons stores across the UK, marking the brand’s first national rollout with a major retailer.

Founded in 2019 by Sarah and Joelle Drummond, Drop Bear has grown rapidly from a bold start-up into one of the UK’s leading independent alcohol-free brewers. The company opened its dedicated alcohol-free brewery in Swansea in 2023, backed by a £1.9 million equity investment.

A breakthrough moment for Welsh brewing

Co-founder and Director of Sales and Marketing Joelle Drummond said the Morrisons deal was a landmark moment:

“We are proud to share this milestone moment, as it marks the first time Drop Bear will be available on shelves across the UK. As a Welsh business, this achievement is especially meaningful. Wales boasts incredible talent and outstanding food and drink brands, yet gaining visibility on the national stage can be a challenge. Securing this listing demonstrates not only the strength of our products, but the growing recognition of the innovation coming out of Wales.”

The new listing features Peach Cut Lager, a 0.5% ABV fruit lager described as a “crisp European lager with a smooth stone fruit twist.” It will be sold in four-packs of 330ml cans with an RRP of £5.

Scaling up to meet demand

Drop Bear’s range is already available via Tesco (Wales), Ocado, and East of England Co-op, with exports to Finland and Australia. To meet growing demand, the company has acquired additional brewing equipment that will increase capacity by 700%.

Managing Director Sarah Drummond said:

“In just two years since opening our brewery, we’ve seen phenomenal growth in demand for Drop Bear. We’re scaling up fast, from growing our team to investing in equipment that increases our capacity by 700%. Partnering with Morrisons is a huge step forward, making it even easier for more people across the UK to get their hands on Drop Bear.”

A rising category

The Low & No alcohol category remains one of the fastest-growing parts of the UK beer market, with NielsenIQ data showing continued double-digit value growth. Fruited lagers like Peach Cut are especially popular with younger shoppers and flexi-drinkers who are moderating their alcohol intake.

Drop Bear’s beers are vegan-friendly, gluten-free, low-calorie, and made with 100% natural ingredients. The brewery is also the world’s first certified carbon-neutral alcohol-free brewer, and a B Corp™️ member committed to ethical and sustainable practices.

#alcoholFreeBeer2 #bCorpWales #brewery #business #dropBearBeerCo2 #foodDrink #lowAndNoAlcoholBeer #morrisonsListing #peachCutLager #swansea #swanseaBrewery #swanseaBusinessNews #welshFoodAndDrink