Latest news with #Kieran
Leader Live
4 days ago
- Business
- Leader Live
Wrexham: The Drunk Monk celebrates its fourth birthday
The Drunk Monk is tucked away in Overton Arcade on Wrexham High Street. Run by Kieran Irwin, his fiancée Dannii Rathbone and Kieran's brother Sean, the idea of starting the business was first discussed during the Covid-19 pandemic. By now, it has grown to the point where it regularly offers over 100 beers, showcasing the best from across Wales and England and also the rest of the world. The Drunk Monk just recently scooped the 'Best Pub' prize at the Best of North Wales Business Awards. And, this weekend (July 26/27), the business is celebrating its fourth year of existence. The Leader paid them a visit earlier this week to speak to Kieran about its growth, the impact of Wrexham AFC's takeover and what's in store for the future. Kieran, who moved to Wrexham from Handsworth in the West Midlands a decade ago, told us: "It all started out as a lockdown hobby idea for me and my brother (Sean). He initially came up with the idea of opening our own microbrewery. "But, after we looked into it more, we said 'why don't we open a bar?' and that conversation led to us finding a premises. "To begin with, it was only the small room with the bar in but, after a year of being open, we knocked through into the old salon next door. We now have a pool table upstairs and a darts board up there and it's a room we use for parties." (Image: Wrexham) From the start Kieran - who also works at Wrexham University as the venue manager for the Students Union Bar - has set out with the goal of promoting the best of local Welsh beers. He said: "People talk about Belgium, Germany and places like that having the best beers, but they also don't realise how many breweries we have in Wales and the UK, where there are some quality beers on offer. "We do get our beers from across the world, including German beers in for OktoberFest. But, we also promote Tiny Rebel who are based down South, as well as the likes of Magic Dragon who are based here in Wrexham. "We try to always get the North Wales beers in and then we continuously have four different beers every week on draught. We have our set house beers of Snowdon (Colwyn Bay), Wrexham Lager and Clwb Tropica (Newport) and then four new beers which we change around and they could be from anywhere including Scotland and Plymouth. "We typically have anywhere between 80 to over 100 different beers at any one time, we just try to keep it constantly changing." Asked about which beers prove most popular, Kieran added: "Without a shadow of a doubt, it's Clwb Tropica at the moment. Then it's a toss up for second place between Snowdon and Wrexham Lager. Snowdon is very popular, it flies out." Kieran says that when he initially suggested the idea to people, they advised against it. But, he and partner Dannii - who are getting married in November - pushed on with the project. He said: "People said to us; 'don't do it, Wrexham is not a craft beer town, it's a lager town', but we wanted to prove people wrong. And it turns out it was worth it. "We have now taken on the bar at Ty Pawb market, and we have a Beer Festival coming up in November, with local breweries in Wales and the UK coming in for that. "Dannii is my co-owner in all of this, she is the real 'hands on' one." The upstairs function room at The Drunk Monk which features a pool table and a darts board. (Image: Newsquest) It's no secret that the takeover of Wrexham AFC by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney back in 2021 has had boosted the city's economy greatly. That takeover took place at around the same time The Drunk Monk was established. Talking about that, Kieran said: "It's been massive, it's brilliant on matchdays, we are packed before the match and after the game, especially if Wrexham win. "Even now, during the summer, we get Americans, Canadians, Germans and Dutch people coming in. The football has massively impacted not just us, but bars all across the town. "Especially with the promotions, it's like Christmas in May, so hopefully they can do it again." As mentioned, The Drunk Monk was recently awarded a 'Best Pub' in North Wales prize. And the night of the ceremony is one Kieran will not forget anytime soon - as he sadly wasn't there. He said: "A few customers nominated us for the prize, but we didn't think we had a chance, because we're still one of the smallest pubs around. READ MORE "So, we went on holiday and we missed the actual event, but watched the ceremony online. We were shocked to win, it was frustrating not being there, but awesome at same time." The Drunk Monk team now has its own OktoberFest event, as well as the 'A Brewed Awakening' beer festival on November 28 to look forward to later this year. Speaking about his longer term plans, Kieran said: "Long term, I want to open another bar, maybe not in Wrexham but within an hour radius. Then, in a year or two, we want to go back to the microbrewery, where the conversations started. We're not experts still but that would be our dream."
Metro
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Metro
The UK's A-road sex shops are loved by older men — that's about to change
Do you remember Little Chef? Tucking into a stack of pancakes or a hearty fry-up to break up a long drive was one of life's small joys in the 90s and 00s. But if you were to step inside one of those restaurants today, you wouldn't find any fried potatoes, toasties or lollipops. Instead, a very different kind of pleasure is on offer. Along several of the UK's A-roads and motorways, you'll find a number of the former diners, which have been transformed into Pulse & Cocktails adult stores. The sex shops are fully licensed, meaning they're strictly 18+ and can sell more 'extreme' items then the likes of Anne Summers and other naughty stores you might find on the high-street. This includes bondage products as well as realistic-looking dolls and masturbators. They also stock R-rated movies and magazines, which Kieran Williams, the brand's e-commerce and marketing manager, tells Metro are popular with their predominantly older male clientele. 'Our really regular customers are older gentlemen who are still into the DVDs and magazines and haven't moved on to the online aspect,' he says. 'They come in and use our DVD swap service, where they can take a film home, bring it back and then get credit for another one. It's very popular.' And Kieran predicts the Online Safety Act will see DVD sales boom in the coming months – and it won't just be older men buying them. X Factor icon Diana Vickers and Metro's dating expert Alice Giddings dive into your wildest sex, love, and dating dilemmas – every Tuesday. Listen wherever you get your podcasts or watch on YouTube. And be sure to follow and subscribe so you never miss an episode. You can also join the fun on our WhatsApp Group Chat here – share your dilemmas and Diana and Alice may just give you a call. From July 25, those who wish to watch pornography online will be required to prove they're over the age of 18, in a bid to prevent children from accessing harmful and inappropriate content. Porn sites will have to introduce 'robust' age checking techniques as a result, demanding photo ID or running credit card checks before allowing sexually explicit material to be viewed. It comes after Ofcom found that 8% of children aged eight to 14 in the UK had visited an online porn site or app over a 28-day period. 'We believe this [change] is a good thing for business and the industry in general, keeping safety as the top priority,' Kieran explains. 'But people are also becoming more cautious online and they might not want to put their IDs into websites and have cookies tracking what they're doing and buying,' Kieran explains. 'This could push people to the store and back to old school DVDs. It'll be like the vinyl records revival. People will start picking them up again and they can do that in our stores as we offer a discrete service.' Customers may still be asked to show their ID before they are able to enter one of the sex shops, of course, but showing your drivers license or passport in person feels different to inputting your details on the internet. 'Not everyone gets ID'd, it's Challenge 25, but obviously we can't let young people in,' says Kieran. 'There are strict rules and regulations for the licensing, say a mum wanted to come in with a newborn baby, we wouldn't be able to allow the baby in. You'd think it was fine, no harm would come to the child whatsoever, but they're not allowed, whereas you can take a baby into a pub and have a drink and that's absolutely fine.' @ ♬ Pinkpantheress x Skepta – bouleon Customers who do make it through the doors will be in for a unique shopping experience. As well as being able to offer products that competitors like Ann Summers can't sell on the high street, one of the chain's biggest selling points is the privacy it offers visitors. The out-of-town locations mean you're unlikely to bump into anyone you know when browsing, and according to Kieran, you're also very likely to have the shop all to yourself. 'We're lucky if we have two people in the shop at the same time. Nine times out of 10 there won't be anyone else in there other than a member of staff,' he says. As such, shoppers feel comfortable enough to embrace their desires as they browse, with some even turning up in head-to-toe fetish gear. 'People make date nights out of coming here in the evenings, they go for a drive to buy a toy together and then go for dinner afterwards. 'Some come in full latex and have their partners on leads as part of 'pet play' and a lot of men also cross-dress, wearing high heel boots and dresses. It's completely normal for us to see that.' The big rule when it comes to behaviour in the stores is not to make anyone else feel uncomfortable – meaning nudity is not permitted. However, Kieran stressed that nobody is ever 'judged', regardless of their kink. 'There is still a bit of stigma around the shops, but they're not dark, seedy places,' he assures. 'They're open and bright and we try to make it as inviting as possible. 'You're not going to be shown stuff you don't want to see. It's a safe space' Pulse & Cocktails has been running since 1997, started by a husband and wife as two separate shops – a lingerie and a bondage store next door to one another. The business is now run by the couple's son and daughter and in addition to the roadside stores they also have locations on industrial estates. While some of their sites have closed in recent years (there were 26 in its heyday), Kieran claims that they are contining to look into expansion opportunities, so if there's not one near you, there could be one coming soon… More Trending 'At one point we had a lot more stores than we've got now, obviously through changing habits and online shopping, some of those have had to be chopped out, but it doesn't mean we're not expanding,' he shares. 'We recently had a new store open in Kettering and we're looking more strategically at where the best places for the shops could be.' The requirements for finding new locations are simple – the stores need a lot of visibility. Kieran adds: 'There's always a service station nearby, and they need to be on a road where a lot of traffic is going to pass by, perhaps somewhere on route to a holiday destination – you could be going on a romatic weekend away and you see it and fancy a stop on the way in. That's what these shops are perfect for.' Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ View More » MORE: People having phone sex on FaceTime will now get a warning from Apple MORE: Spitting in one another's mouths is normal now MORE: I'm a sex worker, here's a look inside my finances
Global News
22-07-2025
- Global News
Penticton, B.C. couple attacked on boardwalk, husband left with broken leg
A peaceful bike ride home turned violent for B.C. couple Kieran and Kirsten Adams on the night of July 12. 'I don't know how I'm supposed to have my back to the sidewalk sitting in the sand anymore,' Kieran says. Around 10 p.m., the couple was riding bikes along the Lakeshore boardwalk in Penticton when they were blocked by a group of about 20 people. 'They had loads of beach items lining either side of the pathway — children's wagons, beach toys, just all sorts of stuff like that,' Kirsten said. When Kieran and Kirsten asked the group to move the items because they couldn't get through, what followed wasn't cooperation — it was confrontation. Get daily National news Get the day's top news, political, economic, and current affairs headlines, delivered to your inbox once a day. Sign up for daily National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy 'When we got to the end of the group, a man got in our face, threatening us and telling us to get out of there. He shoved Kieran,' Kirsten said. Story continues below advertisement As they tried to de-escalate, Kirsten says a woman grabbed her bike's handlebars. Kieran stepped in to protect her — a decision that would land him in a wheelchair. 'Her husband thought (Kieran) was going to attack her, and he came out of the sand and just smoked him from the side. While Kieran was on the ground, about three guys started beating on him and then they stomped on his leg,' Kirsten says. Kieran was left with a broken leg and multiple bumps and bruises. Although Kirsten was uninjured, she says a man in the group shoved her. 'Neither of us had a cellphone and no one would call anyone for us, no matter how much my wife asked,' Kieran said. Eventually, Kieran told Kirsten to go home and get their vehicle to get him home. The couple says the attack happened in front of children. 'Ultimately, I hope none of them saw too much,' Kieran said. They reported the incident to police once they got home. The RCMP is now investigating and searching for witnesses. Kirsten admits the attack has left them with sleepless nights. 'Probably two to five hours of sleep some nights just from stress and the scene running through my head constantly,' she said. Story continues below advertisement A stranger who heard about the attack has started a GoFundMe to help the couple recover.
Metro
20-07-2025
- Metro
I went to a European country that doesn't exist
Kieran Brown is fascinated by places that don't exist. Not officially, at least. The British content creator recently spent a day in Transnistria, a breakaway republic of Moldova that is of Europe's most unusual destinations: a self-declared nation that the world doesn't recognise. Touted as a 'surreal relic of Soviet times', this tiny enclave – known locally as Pridnestrovie – is a magnet for intrepid travellers. It's got Lenin statues and ramshackle restaurants run by babushkas. It's got a ghostly railway station, a dark military history and streets that look like a time-warp to the past. In other words, it's fascinating. 'There's not a ton to do, it's more about soaking up the weirdness of it all,' Kieran, 29, tells Metro. 'Hammer and sickle flags are still flying, and the ATMs don't accept Visa or Mastercard.' Best remember to bring cash, then. The local currency is the Transnistrian ruble, valued against the Euro at 20 to 1. It's the only accepted currency used in day-to-day life there. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. Sandwiched between the Ukrainian border and the Dniester River, Transnistria broke away from Moldova in a short civil war in the early 1990s. Backed by Russia, it became a de facto independent republic, with its own government, parliament, military, police, currency, postal system and vehicle registration. The separatist region has also adopted its own constitution, flag and national anthem. But under international law, it belongs to Moldova. It's difficult to find accurate information on what life is really like there; for instance, population estimates vary wildly, from 300,000 to 475,000, depending on who you ask. What we do know for certain is, it's cheap. Very cheap, even by eastern European standards. Kieran estimates that he spent around $15 for a whole day of sightseeing and food. A big bottle of vodka is the equivalent of one US dollar, he says. This place punches above its weight. Transnistria is home to a football team that beat Real Madrid in 2021 – the greatest upset in Champions League history. At the time, the estimated value of the entire Sheriff squad was 12 million euros ($14m), about the same as the annual salary of Madrid defender David Alaba. As for Transnistrian locals, Kieran had a mixed bag. 'People were generally stoic but polite, especially the older ones,' he says. 'Younger people often speak a bit of English and are curious why you're there. One man in a tracksuit accused us of being spies as we had a camera but our driver sorted it out.' You can't fly to Transnistria as it doesn't have an international airport. So, if you want to visit, you'll need to follow Kieran's lead and take a day trip from the Moldovan capital, Chișinău. From there, it's around a 90-minute drive or marshrutka (shared minibus) to Tiraspol. For most nationalities, no visa is necessary, but there is a border crossing patrolled by Russian soldiers. Many countries advise against travel to Transnistria due to its proximity to Ukraine, and the fact it is outside the control of the Moldovan government. The UK is one of them, so if you decide to travel, you'll be doing so at your own risk. The Foreign Office won't be on hand to help. It's always a good idea to research ahead of any trip, and have reasonable knowledge of what you're getting yourself into. Kieran says he felt completely safe, even at night. He also knows solo women backpackers who have been there without an issue. 'It's very quiet, with a heavy police and military presence,' he says. 'As long as you don't go filming military bases or causing a scene, you're fine.' More Trending Does he plan to hit up more unrecognised states? You bet. Kieran has already been to Northern Cyprus, a breakaway state that declared independence in 1983 following the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus. Next, he plans to visit Somaliland in the Horn of Africa. 'There's something fascinating about places that exist in this limbo between countries,' he says. 'They often tell you more about global politics, identity, and history than official capitals ever could.' MORE: 'City of dreams': The Spanish destination that hasn't succumbed to mass tourism MORE: The best lesser-known Greek islands for dodging tourists in 2025 MORE: 'Like the Caribbean': Ibiza's quiet little sister with lunar beaches and turquoise oceans
Daily Mirror
20-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Does gardening really 'count' as exercise? Physiotherapist explains
Gardening can burn many calories, but is it as good for you as heading to the gym? Green-thumbed enthusiasts know that gardening can be exhausting. Whether you're digging flowerbeds or raking leaves, it's likely you'll burn some calories along the way. But have you ever wondered whether gardening is intense enough to be deemed a real workout? You may be surprised to know that one expert believes it can be, but it may depend on the kind of chores you undertake. Kieran Sheridan, a UAE-based physiotherapist, previously told the Mirror:"According to CDC, you can burn about 300 calories with just 45 minutes of gardening. "Planting and potting for an hour can also burn 200-300 calories. It targets a lot of muscle groups because of all the strenuous physical activity - such as planting, watering, even digging and lifting fertiliser bags." To put it into perspective, someone weighing around 10 stone would typically use up about 260 calories per hour walking at a brisk pace of 3.5mph on a treadmill, according to Very Well Fit. Increase the speed to 6mph, and the calorie expenditure shoots up to 680 per hour. Kieran points out that, similar to walking, gardening engages various muscle groups across the body, including the arms, buttocks, abdomen, back, and legs. Digging is likely the most calorie-intensive task, as the act of driving a spade into the ground works many of these muscles at once, he claimed. "It's also required to stretch first to build your strength before gardening and also to avoid cramps and overworking the muscles after gardening," Kieran continued at the time. "These gardening tasks also help burn calories just like a simple exercise would do. "I advise mixing things up when gardening. You can't do one task alone because it could strain your muscles. For example, just planting and carrying bags of mulch will be physically straining, which can lead to injuries and body pain. I'd suggest doing other tasks such as pulling weeds and raking." Beyond burning calories and building strength, exercising can have various other benefits. A recent study from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology especially emphasised this, shedding light on how physical health can affect brain ageing. Despite existing guidelines advising 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise every week, experts claimed that even minimal amounts can have a positive impact on brain health. These results come at a time when over 944,000 people in the UK have dementia. In light of such trends, Dr Alexis Missick, a GP at UK Meds, also told the Mirror: "Gardening activities such as digging count are beneficial forms of exercise as they help build our strength. Like other forms of exercise such as brisk walking, studies have found that daily gardening can reduce the risk of dementia. "Getting yourself moving around more by gardening can promote cardiovascular health and helps to reduce your risk of coronary heart disease (CHD),and keep your blood pressure at a healthy level."
