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Wales Online
14-07-2025
- General
- Wales Online
A deer that enchanted people in a Welsh city found dead on a beach
A deer that enchanted people in a Welsh city found dead on a beach Warning: This article includes images some may find upsetting The deer was found on Swansea beach (Image: WalesOnline/Gayle Marsh ) Shocked beachgoers found a dead deer on Swansea Beach. The deer had been filmed running along the beach and frolicking in the water in the days before it was discovered by shocked members of the public. Although not commonly known, deer experts have confirmed that roe deer, as seen on the beach, are strong swimmers. It appears the deer had been running in the water before getting into difficulty. Its legs seemingly got tangled and experts say it likely drowned. One of the videos shared on social media show the deer gracefully prancing and jumping around in the sea and the other showed him sprinting across the vast beach. Roe deer have a buoyant nature due to their hollow hair, helping them swim. Roe deer are strong swimmers thanks to their buoyant nature (Image: Christopher Jordan ) A spokesperson from The British Deer Society explained: "Although roe are widely distributed across much of England and Wales they have only rarely been reported in the Swansea area. The closest main Welsh populations are to the east of Cardiff, though they are common on the English side of the Bristol Channel. Article continues below "Roe deer are proficient swimmers and have been known to cross considerable distances of water at times. Why this particular one entered the water in the first place is of course a matter for conjecture - it may have been fleeing from something, or trying to cross a short stretch of water. "For example - and it is most likely that it then became disorientated or encountered strong currents, eventually becoming exhausted and drowning. There have sadly been similar cases in the past." Ian Skelton, Chair of the Midlands, Wales & the Marches branch of the British Deer Society also suggested the deer could have been swimming and got into difficulty. "They have been known to swim but I imagine this one has got into difficulties. It could well have been trying to cool down in the warm weather." It's thought that the deer got into difficulty whilst swimming (Image: Andrea De La Cruz-Toke ) Ian also explained that deer habituate in a lot of places that people might not expect. Never miss a Swansea story by signing up to our newsletter here . "Right in the centre of Glasgow there is a churchyard which is home to several little families, it's surprising where they make home," he added. A spokesperson from the RSPCA said that when animal remains or dead animals are found they should be reported to the local authority. The organisation only get involved where there are any injuries or suggestions of animal cruelty. Swansea council has been contacted for comment. Article continues below
Wales Online
12-07-2025
- Sport
- Wales Online
'I'm the worst boxer in Britain but I'd be skint if I didn't carry on fighting'
'I'm the worst boxer in Britain but I'd be skint if I didn't carry on fighting' Robin Deakin doesn't care he's widely known as Britain's worst in his field and says he'll keep going as long as he can to 'earn some coin' Robin Deakin is recognised as the worst pro boxer in Britain and yet he's explained why he won't give up (Image: WalesOnline/Gayle Marsh ) Robin Deakin is recognised as the worst professional boxer in Britain and yet he's about to step into the ring again years after his last bout. The butcher who lives in Swansea and works in nearby Penclawdd has just been through an operation to correct complications from talipes, or club foot, and he tends to slur his words because he's been hit in the face so many times. The 39-year-old thought he'd packed in fighting three years ago having quit professional boxing in 2018 for bareknuckle boxing which he did until 2022. During his boxing career he has won just two of his 55 bouts including a record-breaking 51-fight losing streak that lasted nine years and which he's actually quite fond of as it's made him pretty well-known. Read the biggest stories in Wales first by signing up to our daily newsletter here . But he's going to fight Jordan Burnett at the Vale Arena in Cardiff on August 23. Asked why he is still putting himself through it he pulls no punches. He is the self-styled worst boxer in Britain and wants to become an influencer (Image: WalesOnline/Gayle Marsh ) 'I need the coin,' he laughs. Robin started boxing when he was seven when he was first able to walk unaided. 'There's more money in boxing now," he explains. "I'm working full-time as a butcher by trade at Howells in Penclawdd. Article continues below 'I have earned quite a bit over the years in boxing even as a journeyman because I never turned down fights. At one stage I had 19 fights in 24 weeks. Some of the blokes I was fighting went on to become British champions. 'Now because of the likes of Jake Paul and KSI getting involved there is so much money in boxing. Look at Ricky Hatton – he's just come back hasn't he? Everyone loves a bit of coin don't they? 'I've taken a lot of punches as people can tell by the way I speak. I've had a few punches to the head but that's okay.' Boxing is now a more lucrative business than it ever has been and yet when Robin was in the 'prime' of his boxing career he was still getting paid north of £2,000 per fight despite being whacked most of the time. Robin says whatever happens in his return to boxing he is a winner (Image: WalesOnline/Gayle Marsh ) 'I work hard with my full-time job but I come out, pay the bills and whatever, and I'm skint,' he says. 'I can't always afford to live so I need to try and earn some money elsewhere. 'I am disabled so I know I probably won't earn big but if I can carry on boxing I can help myself out. I still struggle with club foot really badly. "I've recently had an operation on my left leg for it and I've had to learn to walk again so it'll be interesting to see how the fight goes in August.' And if he loses he says he's still a winner. ''Britain's worst boxer' is my tag isn't it? Everyone needs to be recognised for something they do in life. At least I'm recognised for something I've tried to be good at and I've enjoyed. 'I was born disabled and I'm proving people wrong every day. That's what I do. I'm a winner whatever happens in the ring. 'In other people's eyes I'm s*** but in my eyes I'm a winner because I'm going in there and doing what other people wouldn't do. That's fine." Robin, who currently has a following of 3,700 on Instagram, still hasn't given up on becoming an influencer, which is where he says the 'coin is at'. He wants to join Misfits, KSI's boxing promotion where influencers and YouTubers fight each other. Article continues below 'I'm going to see how this fight goes with my leg now and then I'm going to try and get involved with Misfits again,' he adds. 'I was due to fight on Misfits last year but had to pull out for surgery. If this goes well Misfits will be next.'
Wales Online
28-06-2025
- Wales Online
Tiny Welsh fishing village crowned UK's most beautiful has sandy beaches and its own dolphins
Tiny Welsh fishing village crowned UK's most beautiful has sandy beaches and its own dolphins This dreamy seaside town regularly tops the list of Britain's "prettiest town" thanks to its largely "unspoilt" coastline New Quay's not just about dolphin spotting and beach walks; it's still a working seaside town, with sea fishing and fish processing. (Image: Getty Images/VisitBritain RM ) With its sandy beaches, resident bottlenose dolphins, and connections to the renowned poet Dylan Thomas, New Quay in Ceredigion has become a popular destination for tourists seeking a seaside escape. New Quay's not just about dolphin spotting and beach walks; it's still a working seaside town, with sea fishing and fish processing. And if you're around in August, you're in for a treat; the annual Cardigan Bay Regatta, one of the oldest regattas in the UK, brings a flurry of sailing fun, races, and seaside festivities to this perfectly placed coastal bolthole. The coastal spot has just been named one of the UK's "best seaside towns" by Holiday Cars, bagging the top spot on the list, writing that "New Quay is a small but buzzy town, yet not completely overrun with tourists, so it's a happy medium for those who seek relaxation but not isolation." Beautiful New Quay has also been dubbed the most isolated town in England and Wales due to its distance from nearby amenities. Residents in the charming town face a long trip to a major supermarket. The town has a Costcutters and a nearby Morrisons Daily. Beautiful New Quay has also been dubbed the most isolated town in England and Wales due to its distance from nearby amenities (Image: WalesOnline/Gayle Marsh ) However, it's a 20-mile trip to visit the nearest major supermarket, either Tesco or Aldi in Cardigan, while the closest train station is 40 minutes away in Aberystwyth. Despite its small size, there's still plenty to do here; here's how to make the most of a trip to New Quay. Article continues below Go on a dolphin spotting trip New Quay is famous for being a dolphin hotspot (Image: Joshua Pedley ) What could be better than spotting dolphins leaping out of the water on picturesque Ceredigion Marine Heritage Coast, recognised for its unspoilt coastline and wildlife The New Quay Boat Trips Company runs fully guided dolphin and wildlife spotting trips, where you may see bottlenose dolphins, Porpoises, and Atlantic Grey seals, which can be viewed in the bay during certain times of the year. These extremely reasonable trips start from just £15 per adult and £7.50 for children. Well-behaved dogs are also welcome aboard. If you fancy some sea fishing, you can also join one of the sea fishing trips, which can be found in the harbour. Follow the Dylan Thomas Trail A Dylan Thomas Trail blue plaque (Image: James Davies Photography ) The 'cliff perched, toppling town' of New Quay, Ceredigion, was a sanctuary for Welsh poet Dylan Thomas between 1944 and 1945, when he lived at Majoda, across the bay from New Quay. It was here that Dylan was at his most productive, writing radio scripts, such as "Quite Early One Morning" and "Memories Of Christmas." The latter was inspired by an early morning walk through the town and along the cliff path overlooking the harbour, dotted with fishing boats, surrounded by colourful terraced houses. He completed the poems Vision and Prayer, Holy Spring, Poem in October, Fern Hill and A Refusal to Mourn the Death by Fire of A Child in London here. Most famously, though, it's believed that New Quay inspired the village of Llareggub in Under Milk Wood and its residents, who gave birth to some of the memorable characters. The 'cliff perched, toppling town' of New Quay, Ceredigion, was a sanctuary for Welsh poet Dylan Thomas (Image: Getty ) The Dylan Thomas Trail passes through places associated with Thomas in Ceredigion, marked by blue plaques and information boards in Lampeter, Aberaeron, and New Quay. It was officially opened by Aeronwy Thomas, Dylan's daughter, in July 2003. It was also featured in the 2014 celebration of Dylan's centenary. Follow the trail, and you'll discover places in New Quay frequented by Dylan Thomas at that time, including the London House, which was once the home and shop of Dylan Thomas' friend Norman Evans. He was thought to be the inspiration for 'Under Milk Wood's 'Nogood Boyo'. Now it is 'The Corner Shop' and New Quay Post Office. Other spots include the Dolau Inn, his wife Caitlin's favourite pub, and The Black Lion Hotel, one of Dylan's favourites, which was owned by his friend Jack Pat (Patrick). Feast on fish and chips New Quay has a wide range of restaurants, pubs and takeaways, with several fish and chip shops close to the shoreline for a scenic chippy tea. (Image: Getty Images ) New Quay has a wide range of restaurants, pubs and takeaways, with several fish and chip shops close to the shoreline for a scenic chippy tea. Café Mariners serves award-winning Cod and Chips, along with traditional meals, salads, homemade specials, teas, coffee, cakes and ice creams. For a swish fish supper, head to the Bluebell Bistro, which has an enviable position with glorious views over Cardigan Bay. The Bistro is so close to the sea that dolphins can often be seen in the harbour, so keep an eye out while feasting on freshly made dishes. Try their ½ New Quay Lobster or the impressive Mixed Seafood Platter, loaded with Mussels, scallops, and salami, as well as crevettes, red mullet, whitebait, cod, and prawn skewers, and a Crab and Crayfish Cocktail. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here Walk the coastline The Wales Coast Path has become one of the nation's most celebrated tourist attractions (Image: © Crown Copyright - Visit Wales ) New Quay's beaches extend in a golden arc around the bay and are ideal for relaxing and strolling by the sea. Hop on the Wales coast path to explore a scenic stretch of coastline, enjoying views out to Cardigan Bay. The section of the Ceredigion Coast Path between New Quay and Aberaeron is one of the most popular stretches and includes one of Dylan Thomas's favourite walks along the beach between the town and his wartime home at Llanina. Nigel Nicholas, Wales Coast Path Officer, says that history is a real highlight on this route, "New Quay is full of history and during the 18th century, it was notorious for its smugglers! Vessels carrying illegal cargo into Cwmtydu and Cei Bach would moor out at sea and in the dead of night small rowing boats would go and collect fine wines and spirits". There are several routes of varying distances available on the Wales Coast Path site or on the All Trails app, where you can follow a waymarked route that hugs the cliffs and offers an abundance of wildlife. Article continues below
Wales Online
18-06-2025
- Politics
- Wales Online
Two of Wales' most senior councillors bite back against MSs who want to change the system
Two of Wales' most senior councillors bite back against MSs who want to change the system Councils are already collaborating and Senedd members with a 'cushy' job should keep out, according to local authority leaders Andrew Morgan is leader of the Welsh Local Government Association (Image: WalesOnline/ Gayle Marsh ) Cutting the number of councils in Wales would likely not save money as authorities are already collaborating to save money, a senior Welsh council leader has said – while taking a pop at any Senedd members who suggest otherwise. The Welsh Local Government Association – the body which represents Wales' 22 councils – is currently meeting for its annual conference in Llandudno. Ahead of that some of its most senior members spoke to journalists about the challenges facing councils and were asked if the long-discussed topic of local government reorganisation remained on the table. The answer was an emphatic and defiant 'no'. The current local government structure in Wales was established in 1996 and the debate about whether the number of councils in Wales needs to change has been ongoing for years since. For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here. After the 2016 Assembly election current finance minister Mark Drakeford was given responsibility for councils and said while 22 authorities could remain as the "front door" to which people would access key services there would be an "enhanced level of mandatory and systematic regional working" with the aim of ensuring greater resilience and better planning and delivery of services regionally Article continues below A year later, following a cabinet reshuffle, Alun Davies was appointed to the local government role and indicated he wanted to see 10 local authority areas. However he then rowed back and said he was no longer pursuing compulsory mergers, making him the third Welsh Government minister to abandon reorganisation plans. You can recap all that here. When, this week, a question about whether the number of councils should be cut from 22 was put to the head of the WLGA and leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf council Andrew Morgan, because the topic continued to be discussed by some Senedd members, he bit back. "Some of the people, sometimes, who say about local government organisation, perhaps maybe they should just try spend some time as a councillor. Maybe if they understood what day to day goes on in a all very well a backbencher in the Senedd [saying that] but I think they've got a cushy life compared to most council leaders and the work and effort has to be put in. "I also would say maybe sometimes they don't speak from a point of evidence." Cllr Morgan said slashing staff and setting up large super-councils could make initial savings and he accepted there was an element of "spend to save" but said there is a £1bn-plus shortfall predicted over the next three years for local government. "If you could make £200m saving over the long term, that doesn't cover the shortfall in funding for one year," he said. Cllr Morgan said there were now plenty of examples of different councils working together. For example Cardiff, the Vale of Glamorgan, and Bridgend share regulatory services while RCT and Merthyr have shared youth services and community safety resources. "Every local authority can identify lots of savings where we reduced officers and we are now covered in a bigger geographical area in terms of our services," he said. "We're constantly trying to reduce down those savings. If you go back a decade and say a decade ago that £200m could be saved – although we questioned at the time it was feasible – I would argue an awful lot of those savings have already been made through the changes and the collaborations we've done. "I would say to anybody who thinks that local government reorganisation is a silver bullet – I would suggest it's like putting a plaster on someone who has just lost their arm. It really isn't going to save us long-term. I would really question those people who think that this is the way forward." Mark Pritchard, the leader of Wrexham council, said he believed reorganisation was "a vanity project – one of many from the Welsh Government". He said: "Whether you have 11 local authorities in Wales, or 15 or 18 or 22, you still have to fund them accordingly. "Is there a possibility of savings? Maybe. I don't do knee-jerk reactions, I never have, but there has to be a strong business case." He said there was little evidence of how money would be saved. "If you're going to change something you have to change it for the betterment of the services and if you can save money at the same time why wouldn't you want to do it? Absolutely," he said. But he added: "Wales is a very diverse place, different cultures – different languages, different understandings. It's not a Manchester, it's not a Birmingham or London. Article continues below "Look at the health board [here] – big is not always better. The reason why the health board is in a mess, in my opinion, is because they've created a monster. It's too big and the sooner we reduce it the better". Of Senedd members advocating reorganisation he said he was "against throwaway remarks", adding: "It's a little bit rich when they're increasing the MSs to 96 when we don't need them."
Wales Online
16-06-2025
- Health
- Wales Online
'Forever' chemical that is toxic to humans found in five Welsh rivers
'Forever' chemical that is toxic to humans found in five Welsh rivers Research suggests the chemicals could have an affect on human reproduction TFA is what's known as a "forever chemical" (Image: WalesOnline/Gayle Marsh ) A chemical that scientists worry might have an impact on human reproduction has been found in rivers across the UK, including five rivers in Wales. York University analysed samples from 32 rivers across Wales, England, Scotland and Northern Ireland and found traces of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in all but one of their test locations. TFA is what's known as a "forever chemical" which means that it breaks down extremely slowly in nature, and so accumulates over time. As with other "forever chemicals", also known as PFAS, just how much a threat to human health and at what concentrations is still being researched. Though what we do know is that scientists in Germany say having looked at the impact of TFA on animals they want it to be classed as "toxic for reproduction." TFA forms when synthetic chemicals from other "forever chemicals" such as those found in pesticides and refrigerants are partially broken down. "This molecule (TFA) is everywhere," Alistair Boxall, professor of Environmental Science at the University of York who carried out the research, told the BBC. "We will all be drinking water containing TFA every day - so we'll be exposed throughout our lifetime. It's that long-term, low level exposure that is the big concern." Article continues below The study was funded by environmental charity Fidras and involved sampling in five rivers in Wales, three in Northern Ireland, 14 in Scotland and 10 in the north of England. The highest concentration of TFA was recorded on the River Kelvin in Glasgow and the River Ness, which flows from Loch Ness to the Moray Firth, was the only river sampled not to show traces of the molecule. Recent studies in the EU have found TFA to be widespread, including being found in wine and food, human blood and breast milk. Citing scientific studies that showed TFA affecting rabbit and rat foetuses, the German Federal Environment Agency (UBA) has, external applied to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA, external) for TFA to be classified as toxic for reproduction and harmful to the environment. "Currently, there are no expected adverse health effects from consuming water or food contaminated with TFA," said Andreas Hensel, president of the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR). "The new classification is an important step in preparing further measures to ensure that this remains the case in the future". There are not any regulations in place to identify or reduce the concentrations of TFA either in the environment or in drinking water supplies in the UK. A spokesperson for Water UK said: "We want to see PFAS, including TFA, banned and the development of a national plan to remove it from the environment which should be paid for by manufacturers." Aware of concerns, the Drinking Water Inspectorate, which monitors and regulates drinking water quality in England and Wales, has just commissioned its own research. It will look at how much TFA is already in drinking water and what risk it poses, if any. Article continues below "The information signposted by the University of York suggests that TFA can be formed from the degradation of PFAS-containing pesticides," Ann Bunting, Principal Inspector of the Drinking Water Inspectorate, told the BBC. "It is important that the fate of pesticides and other chemicals in the environment is understood, in order to protect drinking water sources."
