Latest news with #DamianEdmunds
South Wales Argus
14-07-2025
- Climate
- South Wales Argus
Torfaen 10k sees hundreds descend on Blaenavon and Pontypool
The 10km race began at 9am in Blaenavon, following a fast, downhill, closed-road course into Pontypool Park. Organisers confirmed all places had sold out ahead of race day. Four-year-old Nancy cheering on her dad. (Image: Damian Edmunds) Despite the hot weather, participants turned out in large numbers, cheered on by families and spectators lining the route. Some runners described conditions as 'challenging', but praised the support along the course. The race was followed by a 2km Family Fun Run in Pontypool Park, with younger runners receiving medals and joining in the day's festivities. Roads across the route, including sections of the A4043, Limekiln Road and Park Road, were closed between 8am and 11.30am to ensure safety. The Mic Morris Memorial Sporting Trust will receive all profits from the event to support young, aspiring athletes in Torfaen. Christine Philpott, race coordinator, reminded participants to stay hydrated, dress appropriately and seek help if unwell due to the heat.
South Wales Argus
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- South Wales Argus
Stereophonics wow fans at second sold out Principality show
With the roof open and 30°C heat radiating through the crowd, the band roared through a 24-song set packed with fan favourites and a few surprises. Kelly Jones led the charge with his signature swagger, launching into classics like 'The Bartender and the Thief,' 'Just Looking,' 'Maybe Tomorrow,' and the anthem-like 'Local Boy in the Photograph.' Newer material from Make 'em Laugh, Make 'em Cry, Make 'em Wait, found its place among the hits, providing emotional texture between stadium-shaking choruses. Stereophonics wow fans at second sold out Principality show (Image: Damian Edmunds) With ukelele at the ready and anecdotes aplenty, a stripped-back solo rendition of 'Step on My Old Size Nines' offered one of the night's most intimate moments, just Kelly, a spotlight, and 60,000 voices singing in unison. The return of 'It Means Nothing' to the setlist was a welcome surprise, and their cover of 'Handbags and Gladrags' proved once again why their take on the classic still resonates. Support acts Blossoms and Finn Forster warmed up the crowd admirably, but the main event was pure spectacle, giant balloons, pyrotechnics, and a euphoric stadium-wide singalong to 'Dakota' made for a fitting climax. Stereophonics wow fans at second sold out Principality show (Image: Damian Edmunds) Not everything ran smoothly offstage. South Wales' ageing transport infrastructure added its own chorus of complaints, packed trains, hours-long tailbacks on the M4, and logistical chaos left many fans frustrated both before and after the gig. Inside, the sting of £8 pints didn't go unnoticed either. But once the band hit the stage, gripes gave way to grins. After more than 30 years in the game, Stereophonics proved they are still masters of the stadium experience, blending grit, charm and timeless tunes in a night that few in Cardiff will forget.
South Wales Argus
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- South Wales Argus
Former taxi driver opens new Pokémon shop in Blackwood
Perry Morgan, from Abertillery, has opened Valley Cards TCG in Blackwood. He said he was inspired to open the shop by his daughters. Mr Morgan said: "They loved Pokémon and card trading and they grew and moved out – leaving the cards and stuff behind. "That was my inspiration. "It seems like there's a Pokémon desert in this part of Gwent so I decided to do something about that." The shop opened on Friday, April 25. Mr Morgan said that on the opening day, the shop attracted visitors from all over Wales. He said: "We've had people from Port Talbot and Pontypridd and queries from over the border. "We are about being a hub for collectors and want to branch into a hub for all kinds of collectible cards." Tammy Wort, an enthusiast, helps Perry get the shop up and running (Image: Damian Edmunds) Mr Morgan plans to also trade in football cards, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and Dragonball Z cards. He said that many people have "treasure" in their attics. He said: "Kids move and leave an attic full of potential treasure. "Full sets of cards can have significant worth and there's a world of enthusiasts who want those cards." Customer Tom Moriarty, from Bargoed, said: "I bought a Prismatic Evolution set and other fan stuff too. "It's great to have something like this in the area." Customer Tom Moriarty with his goods (Image: Damian Edmunds) The shop is now open for "global interest" as described by Mr Morgan. TCG stands for Trading Card Games. Mr Morgan's prized possession is a Pokémon Sword and Shield, Evolving Skies series. The series has a significant value and is not kept in the Blackwood shop. He said that he is "nearly 30 in Pokémon years."
