Swansea City now know who they will face in the Premier League for the 2013/14 season

The League Cup winners will open against Premier League champions Manchester United at the Liberty Stadium on August the 17th.

Then it's Tottenham away on the 24th.

Swansea City will kick off their Premier League 2013/14 season with a massive game.

The Swans have been handed a dream opener for the upcoming season, they will welcome defending champions Manchester United to the Liberty on Saturday, 17th August.

Michael Laudrup will be looking to spoil the party for David Moyes - it'll be his first competitive match as the new boss of the Red Devils.

The other big date for the diary is the 2nd of November, when the Jack army head to the Cardiff City Stadium for the first Welsh top flight derby.

Here's Cardiff Captain Mark Hudson.

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Swans season ticket holder Andrew Davies can't wait for kick off.

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FIXTURE LIST

SEASON 2013/14 AUGUSTS AT 17 AUG Manchester United

SAT 24 AUG Tottenham Hotspur

SAT31 AUG West Bromwich Albion

SEPTEMBER SAT 14 SEP Liverpool

SAT 21 SEP Crystal Palace

SAT 28 SEP Arsenal

SAT 05 OCT Southampton

SAT 19 OCT Sunderland

SAT 26 OCT West Ham United

SAT 02 NOV Cardiff City

SAT 09 NOV Stoke City

SAT 23 NOV Fulham

SAT 30 NOV Manchester City

TUE 03 DEC Newcastle United

SAT 07 DEC Hull City

SAT 14 DEC Norwich City

SAT 21 DEC Everton

THU 26 DEC Chelsea

SAT 28 DEC Aston Villa

WED 01 JAN Manchester City

SAT 11 JAN Manchester United

SAT 18 JAN Tottenham Hotspur

TUE 28 JAN Fulham

SAT 01 FEB West Ham United

SAT 08 FEB Cardiff City

TUE 11 FEB Stoke City

SAT22 FEB Liverpool

SAT 01 MAR Crystal Palace

SAT 08 MAR Arsenal

SAT 15 MAR West Bromwich Albion

SAT 22 MAR Everton

SAT 29 MAR Norwich City

SAT 05 APR Hull City

SAT 12 APR Chelsea

SAT 19 APR Newcastle United

SAT 26 APR Aston Villa

SAT 03 MAY Southampton

SUN 11 MAY Sunderland

Swansea Bay will find out today whether it's made the shortlist for the UK's city of culture in 2017.

It is now the bookies favourite win the title with odds of just 4/1.

The Swans success in the premier league is being partly attributed to the region currently being the frontrunner.

William Hill have told us the aerea is heading bids from Chester, Leicester and Hull.

"A decision on the shortlist is expected on Wednesday and the gamble on Swansea would certainly suggest that there is at least one city already on that list,” said William Hill spokesman Joe Crilly.

2017 UK City of Culture: 4/1 Swansea Bay; 5/1 Leicester; 5/1 Chester; 6/1 Hull; 8/1 Aberdeen; 8/1 Portsmouth and Southampton; 10/1 Dundee; 10/1 Plymouth; 12/1 Hastings and Bexhill on Sea; 14/1 Southend on Sea; 16/1 East Kent

Ospreys Rugby are delighted to announce the appointment of Chris Gibbes as Forwards Coach.

The 40-year old New Zealander will arrive in Ospreylia in early August ahead of the new season.

A highly regarded coach in New Zealand, Gibbes joins the Ospreys after 10 years with the Waikato Rugby Union, the last four as Head Coach of the Waikato ITM Cup team having worked his way through the provincial development system, taking them to consecutive finals in 2010 and 2011. He also assists as a development coach to the Chiefs development training squad.

Renowned as a set-piece and breakdown specialist, Gibbes has worked extensively under All Blacks’ Forward Coach, Mike Cron, recognised worldwide as one of rugby’s leading scrum experts, in a range of resource roles within the NZRU development structure.

Away from Waikato, Gibbes has also gained extensive international experience. In 2007, he travelled to France for the Rugby World Cup as Forwards Coach of Japan, working alongside John Kirwan, while he also spent the first six months of 2012 working with the Georgian national team.

Having previously worked with the New Zealand U17 team, he returned to France this summer in his role of Forwards Coach of the U20s for the ongoing Junior World Championship.

Speaking about his appointment, Gibbes commented:

"This is a very exciting opportunity for me to work with the Ospreys. I’ve spoken to everybody there and it’s an exciting time for the organisation so I’m pleased to be a part of it. I’m really looking forward to a new challenge and testing myself in a different environment, in two big competitions, the Heineken Cup and PRO12.

"I’ll be in Wales in the first week of August, a month before the first competitive game of the new season, so it’s a pretty big month for me to make sure we can hit the ground running.

"There’s a quality group of players for me to work with, just look at the five forwards the Ospreys have on the Lions tour at the moment. There are also some good youngsters coming through that I can hopefully help to develop over the coming seasons. I can’t wait to get stuck into it.”

Andrew Hore, Chief Operations Officer at Ospreys Rugby, welcomed Gibbes to the Liberty Stadium, saying:

"To be able to announce the appointment of someone of the calibre of Chris Gibbes as our new Forwards Coach is a real coup for Ospreys Rugby.

"His track record and reputation in New Zealand speaks for itself. At Waikato he has had to work not only under a salary cap, he has worked in an environment which has been under severe financial constraints and has done a tremendous job with a young group of players, helping to establish them as one of the leading ITM Cup teams in recent seasons.

"His talents have also allowed him to get invaluable experience of other environments and cultures internationally, as well as being his ongoing involvement within the NZRU national set-up, and it was only a matter of time before he was snapped up by either a leading European Cup team or a full Super XV side.

"He is passionate about development from within, both of players and coaches, understanding that good development can create a successful team as he has demonstrated with Waikato. It’s an outlook that matches that of the Ospreys and is essential for our long-term vision of sustainable success on and off the field.

"Chris has a major part to play within our organisation in the coming seasons, working alongside Steve Tandy and Gruff Rees. His role will be to not only help ensure that we remain competitive as a team at the highest level, but to continue the ongoing development that we are entirely committed to as an organisation, and he will also work closely with the next generation of players and coaches to help them reach their potential as Ospreys.”

It's reported the club's hoping to land Lyon frontman Bafetimbi Gomis, in a record deal, ahead of the start of the Premier League and Europa League season.

Bafetimbi would lessen the burden on Michu’s shoulders after the Spaniard’s 22 goals last term.

Dubbed Didier Drogba-esque in his play, the 27-year-old scored 20 goals in 40 games last season, helping Lyon into third place in Ligue 1 behind Paris Saint-Germain and Marseilles.

Gomis also remains an option for the France national side who he grabbed his last goal for in a friendly clash with Italy in November.

Signing Bafetimbi might ease Michael Laudrup's transfer headache. Last week's row between the club and his agent resulted in reports linking him with a possible move to PSG. Michael has since committed his future to the Liberty Stadium outfit.

So who do the Swans have in the can for the new season? Jose Canas is already signed up on a pre-contract. Talks are also in place to do deals for Jonathan de Guzman and Espanyol defender Jordi Amat.

Swansea will be buzzing today as the Festival of Transport rumbles into the city centre.

Giant American-style trucks are among the hundreds of vehicles visiting Swansea as part of the annual event.

The vintage cars, state-of-the-art cars, lorries, motorbikes and other iconic vehicles will be parked up on Princess Way, Castle Square, Oxford Street, Portland Street, Whitewalls, Union Street and Nelson Street from 10.30am to 4pm.

Some of the larger vehicles forming part of the display will be available for viewing at the new St David’s Car Park.

The free event is managed by local volunteers and sponsored by Swansea BID in association with Swansea Council.

Vehicles are coming from as far afield as Ireland, the Isle of Wight and Leicester to be showcased. Swansea Market will be open from 10.30am to 4pm to support the event.

Cllr Nick Bradley, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: "This is a major event that attracts hundreds of people from South Wales and beyond every year.

"Its location is also important because it raises the profile of Swansea city centre at a time when our traders are battling against out-of-town retail parks, internet shopping and tricky economic conditions.

"This is why it’s vital we promote and support any events of this nature to help generate footfall and business for our city centre traders – many of whom will be opening up for the day.

"Enormous credit must also go to the volunteers who organise the festival for their tireless work. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever before.”

Russell Greenslade, Chief Executive of Swansea BID, said: "This event was a great success last year with excellent feedback from businesses, which is why we ensured it returned this year by sponsoring it.

"City centre businesses have many exclusive offers available on the day, so I'd encourage people to come along and enjoy the event and the shops."

A selection of steam tractors are among the other vehicles on display this year. A 1932 Lagonda and a modern, three-wheel prototype car will also feature.

Scarlets fans are being asked to bring along their Llanelli RFC and Scarlets memorabilia to an open day at Parc y Scarlets on Saturday (June 22).

The Scarlets will launch a new initiative later in the year which will allow supporters and visitors to travel back in time and relive some of Llanelli and Scarlets’ 140-year history.

Nia Lloyd Scarlets Heritage Project Manager said: "Over the years, our supporters have undoubtedly collected many interesting items and we thought it would be a fantastic idea to invite people along to an Open Day for supporters to share their stories and most treasured Scarlets possessions.

"With the Heritage Trail opening later this year we are keen to see scrapbooks, photographs, letters and all other forms of Scarlets memorabilia. We would be delighted if people wanted to give or loan any items which we do not already possess.

"We believe that our memories are made of our supporters and would love to hear all of your stories. We would also be happy to photograph or copy anything which people do not want to part with.”

Nia added: "This club and region owes so much to its supporters and members; we often hear of people supporting for decades with cherished memories of cheering the team on from the Tanner Bank or travelling to every away fixture and so on.

"These supporters are the lifeblood of our community and we would like to hear more of these stories and memories and reward our most loyal and longstanding supporters.”

You can also send your stories, memories and any pictures you’d like to share of supporting the Scarlets over the years to heritage@scarlets.co.uk

Shane Williams has been given a shock call-up to play for the Lions in their final warm-up match before the first rugby union Test with Australia.

The former Osprey retired from international rugby 18 months ago - and was only due to be Down Under as a radio summariser.

With the touring party hit by a number of injuries, the team to face the Brumbies in Canberra on Tuesday contains six players not selected in the original squad.

The 36-year-old, who is Wales' record try-scorer, is currently playing in Japan after quitting international rugby in 2011.

Gorseinon's Leigh Halfpenny scored 30 points to see the British and Irish Lions beat the New South Wales Waratahs 47-17 in Sydney this morning.

He scored two tries, and kicked eight out of eight to help the Lions to victory.

Jonny Sexton, Tom Croft & Jonathan Davies also scored in the final match before next weekend's first test against Australia.

In Summary:

Halfpenny two tries & 30 pts for Lions

Sexton, Croft & J Davies also score

Carter scored twice for the Waratahs

Halfpenny kicks eight from eight

Lions led 23-10 at half-time

Japan have caused a major shock in world rugby by beating European champions Wales.

It's their first victory over top tier opposition.

Wales were trailing 6-3 at half time but Tom Prydie put Wales ahead in the second half with a try, taking the score to 6-8.

But Japan then scored another two tries and a penalty.

Craig Wing, an Australian rugby league convert, was a constant threat at centre and scored Japan's first try.

Home flanker Michael Broadhurst crashed over from close range, while Ayumu Goramaru kicked 13 points.

The final score Japan 23 - Wales 8.

A South Wales man has been found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering and failing to meet the needs of 27 horses.

The verdict comes a month after his two sons admitted offences relating to the same group of equines.

49-year-old Thomas Tony Price, from Wick in the Vale of Glamorgan, was found guilty of 57 offences at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court.

He'll be sentenced in July.

His eldest son Thomas Hope Price, aged 26, of Rover Way, Cardiff, pleaded guilty to 42 charges, including causing unnecessary suffering to 18 horses, at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court on 8 May.

The remaining charges involved failing to meet the welfare needs of these and a further nine horses by either failing to address their weight loss, protect them from injury, pain or disease or failing to ensure they had clean and hazard-free environments with dry lying areas.

A second son, Tony John Price, aged 19, also of Rover Way, Cardiff, admitted failing to meet the welfare needs of a piebald cob colt by failing to explore and address his weight loss and failing to meet the welfare needs of a piebald filly on 8 May.

Price Senior was the director of a business known as Glamorgan Horse Traders and Thomas Price was listed as secretary of the same business which deals in horses across the UK, Europe and America.

The offences related to 27 Gypsy cob type ponies which were removed from five different locations across the Vale of Glamorgan and Bridgend between February and March 2012.

Sixteen of the horses were chipped and further investigations identified a link to Thomas Price Senior. Twelve of the horses were found locked in a barn with no space or access to food or water. They were very underweight and suffering from various untreated conditions.

The Prices are thought to own around 2,500 horses which are kept at various locations throughout Wales and the west of England.

The RSPCA and other charities had previously advised them to keep the numbers down and manage breeding as they couldn’t guarantee the care arrangements of most of the animals and, since around 2011, problems developed with stray horses and ‘fly grazing’ in the Glamorgan area.

Price Senior maintained that he had relinquished ownership of his horses to Thomas in January 2012. However, in separate civil proceedings, in which he is claiming compensation for 33 horses he produced a bill of sale which was dated after he apparently transferred ownership to his son.

RSPCA inspector Christine McNeil said: "These horses turned out to be the most poorly and diseased horses I have come across. It is my belief that the 12 in the barn had been left there to die.

"These horses were suffering but there are hundreds of other horses across Wales and England which may not be suffering but are just being left to illegally graze and indiscriminately breed. It really is a massive problem that we struggle to deal with day after day.

"We worked closely with Bridgend County Council throughout this case and their assistance was pivotal in securing today’s result.”

British Transport Police have released CCTV images of a group of men they wwant to speak to after three members of the same family were subjected to a torrent of abuse on a train between Cardiff and Bridgend.

The incident, which happened between 8.50pm and 9.14pm on Saturday, 18 May, took place on board a First Great Western train between Cardiff and Bridgend.

Investigating officer Sergeant Nick Brown said: "Three women were travelling home from a weekend away in London when a group of men, all aged in their early 20s, boarded the service at Cardiff Central.

"As soon as they entered the carriage, the men – all of whom appeared to be drunk - became abusive and were shouting loudly.

"When challenged over their behaviour and asked to mind their language, the men subjected all three victims to a barrage of abuse and vile language.”

Having spoken to witnesses and viewed CCTV footage, officers have now identified ten men they would like to speak to in connection with the incident. All of the men were dressed in golfing clothing and alighted the service at Bridgend.

"I am very keen to trace these men as we believe they may all have information which could assist the investigation,” said Sgt Brown.

"This was an extremely distressing and intimidating experience for the victims, who were three generations of the same family simply making their way home after what had been a pleasant weekend away.

"Passengers and staff have the right to go about their business without being subjected to abusive behaviour of this type.

"I would like to appeal to the public to come forward with any information they may have in relation to this incident, and particularly anyone who recognises the men in the CCTV images.”

Anyone with information should contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 quoting background reference B6/WCA of 14/06/2013. Information can also be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The Ospreys have signed hooker Matthew Dwyer - it's his first full-time contract with the region.

The 28-year old combined life as an Osprey with his day job as a serving soldier last season after impressing in the Welsh Premiership with Bridgend Ravens.

But the new deal allows him to commit full-time to regional rugby with the support of his regiment, the Welsh Guards.

Born in Newport, Dwyer has served in the Welsh Guards for the past eight years, seeing action in Bosnia and Helmand Province in Afghanistan.

He has also represented his regiment, the British Army and the Combined Services on the field, as well as being selected for the Barbarians in 2010.

Speaking after signing his new deal, Dwyer said he was looking forward to being able to focus solely on rugby this season:

"It’s nice to know that I’ve made a big enough impression to be offered a contract here, and the army are fully supporting me, so I’m in a good place at the moment.

"I came in last year from Bridgend but I didn’t do a full pre-season because of other commitments, and I had to balance rugby with my army life throughout the season as well, but now the Ospreys can be my sole focus for the next couple of years.

"Last year was difficult at times as I had to satisfy army commitments, quite rightly so as I’m a soldier first before I’m a rugby player, but this year the Welsh Guards have supported me and told me to just concentrate on the Ospreys and do what I can.

"That’s great for me as it allows me to focus solely on rugby without worrying about anything else. I’m extremely grateful to the Ospreys for giving me this opportunity and to the Welsh Guards for getting behind me 100 per cent.

"I’ll have a full pre-season with the squad now and hopefully that will allow me to reap the benefits throughout the season as long as I keep plugging away.”

Dwyer first came to the Ospreys attention playing for Bridgend during their 2010/11 promotion winning season under current Ospreys Head Coach, Steve Tandy, and made one regional appearance at the start of 2011/12 against Leinster at the Liberty Stadium.

He remained on the region’s radar and spent more time in the environment last season, adding a further seven appearances, including his first start last November, also against Leinster, and a brief outing off the bench away to French giants Toulouse in the Heineken Cup a month later.

Rugby Operations Manager, Andy Lloyd, said: "Matthew is going to be with us full-time now which is great news for both him and for the Ospreys. His army commitments meant that he spent a lot of his time away from us last year but now he will be in our environment day in, day out, and that can only benefit him and allow him to become a better player.

"He is another example of the way Premiership rugby should work at a regional level, with players catching our attention through performing consistently well and then taking the opportunity to step-up when offered a chance.

"He did really well against the likes of Leinster and Gloucester last season and showed what potential he has.

"He’s a really good footballer with a good arm, he’s tough and he’s hard working and we are providing him with a chance to play more rugby at this level.

"Being with us every day now will allow him to commit time to work in the gym and become rugby fit, not army fit, and that should make a big difference.”

Plans to regenerate Glynneath are moving forward.

Councillors in Neath Port Talbot have agreed to establish a steering group to implement a strategy aimed at regenerating the town and the surrounding areas.

The purpose of this group will be to provide co-ordination and leadership for the delivery of the vision, objectives and actions of the Glynneath Regeneration Strategy which was agreed by the Council earlier this year.

The group will include the local county council members, Glynneath Town Council, Blaengwrach Community Council along with representatives from the voluntary and private sectors.

The overall vision is of a sustainable town that offers a high quality of life and takes full advantage of its location.

The strategy includes a programme for securing funding for physical improvement and development projects for business workshops, a community campus and potential sites for residential developments.

Council Leader Ali Thomas said: 

 "Glynneath is a strategically important town to the Neath Valley and the Borough as a whole". 

"With the support of council officers, this group will ensure that the needs and priorities of Glynneath and surrounding communities are recognised and responded to.”

Cllr Robert Parry, Town Mayor said: 

"The establishment of the Glynneath Regeneration Group is a wonderful opportunity for the town and fully supported by the Town Council". 

"The Group will encourage input into the regeneration of the town from the Town Council and Blaengwrach Community Council as well as other local groups,  businesses and organisations". 

"Together we are committed to seeing new investment and facilities in the town that will meet the needs of the communities of the Upper Neath Valley and fully realise the potential of the town.”

A Homelessness charity has beenawarded funding to help young care leavers and young people who have offended into work.

Llamau, the leading homelessness charity for the most vulnerable young people and women in Wales,have been granted £3.3 million with which to deliver a project to help people who might otherwise be unable to access employment.

The project aims to benefit 440 young care leavers and young people who offend across Wales over the next 2 years.

The funding has been made available through Getting Ahead, a non-Lottery funding programme which is being delivered through the BIG Fund.

Frances Beecher, Llamau’s Chief Executive, said:

"Llamau and our partner organisations are looking forward to the challenges of delivering the Symud Ymlaen/ Moving Forward project".

"The project will enable young people who have offended and those leaving the care system to move seamlessly into work, creating real, positive change for these vulnerable individuals, for Welsh businesses and for the wider community.”

With youth unemployment in the UK still above the one million mark, the Welsh Government Deputy Minister for Skills, Jeff Cuthbert said programmes like Getting Ahead were essential in getting more vulnerable young people into work.

"Our absolute priority in these tough times is to create jobs and enable growth across Wales".

"Programmes like Getting Ahead are essential in taking this agenda forward and getting some of our more vulnerable young people into work".

"The number of vulnerable young people aged 18-24 who are not engaged in education employment or trainingin Wales is a concern to the Welsh Government and we are determined to do all we can to help them".

"For some of these young people, time spent outside of education, employment or training could affect their ability to compete for jobs in the long-term".

"This, in turn, could have an adverse impact on their motivation, self-esteem and overall health and wellbeing".

"Through this £3.3 million grant we will help some of our most vulnerable young people to enhance their chances of progressing into sustainable employment by increasing their employability skills and giving them that all-important advantage in the jobs market.”

Patients suspected as having cancer should be seen by a consultant within 10 working days, Health Minister Mark Drakeford announced today.

He said if the NHS met this interim milestone it would make hitting the overall target to treat cancer patients within 62 days more achievable.

The 62 day target requires individuals who have been referred as a suspected cancer patient be seen and treated within that time. The target covers all milestones of the patient journey, such as the first appointment with a consultant as an outpatient, diagnostic tests and treatment.

Mark Drakeford said: "Over the past few years, thanks to the hard work of staff, Wales has experienced the fastest rate of improvement across the UK for survival rates at one and five years for all cancers.

"While the vast majority of urgent referrals are seen within the 62 day target, the NHS has struggled to meet the requirement to see 95% of all referrals within that time frame.

"Analysis of waiting times performance shows that if the first outpatient appointment takes place after 10 days, then the NHS is playing catch-up in terms of meeting the overall target.

"If the NHS focuses on ensuring that as many patients as possible are seen within 10 working days, then it makes meeting the target more achievable.”

NHS Wales Chief Executive David Sissling will be writing to NHS organisations advising them to utilise this interim milestone as part of their approach to performance management.

The Welsh government's announced funding of almost £2 million to boost credit union membership across Wales

The not-for-profit financial organisations provide ethical savings and borrowing and are an alternative to traditional banks and high-rate loan providers.

The money will go towards encouraging more people to use credit unions and help develop the services and products they provide for customers.

The money revealed today will go towards encouraging more people to use credit unions. It will also help the institutions to develop the services and products they provide for customers so that credit unions become a more visible and widely available source of affordable financial services.

£612,000 of the funding will support the work of Welsh credit unions for another six months, from October through to March 2014. This money will allow the extension of a three year Welsh Government backed programme to increase assets and membership of credit unions, which was due to end in September.

The offer of an additional £1.25 million is dependent on credit unions providing a business case setting out how they will significantly extend their reach and services.

Credit unions offer people an alternative to payday loans and the Minister is concerned about the rise of payday lenders in Welsh high streets. He has submitted evidence to the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) consultation on referring the payday loan market to the Competition Commission and met with OFT officials.

Today, he will challenge credit unions to provide additional financial services and products to meet the needs of customers. The proposals they submit will help him to decide how best to support the credit union movement in future years.

Communities and Tackling Poverty Minister Huw Lewis said: "Credit unions are unique. They are run for communities by communities and offer a real, ethical alternative way of managing your finances.

"I am committed to working with credit unions across Wales to increase the profile of the services and their role in supporting resilient communities. In these tough economic times helping people manage their finances and debt has never been more important.

"This new funding is about encouraging the rapid development of credit unions so they can reach their full potential, from improving their backroom operations to improving the great services they provide.

"One area that is increasingly important for credit unions is providing loans. They can offer customers far more affordable loans than those offered by payday loan companies and I‘m keen to hear how we can raise awareness of this.

"Payday loan companies are popping up all over the country with a barrage of advertising on TV, online and in our newspapers. As the full impact of the UK Government’s welfare reforms start to kick in I am very concerned that more and more people will be tempted by these loans to make ends meet.

"I know that by working together we can do much more for the people of Wales who deserve efficient, affordable and transparent financial services on which they can depend. Credit unions are ideally placed to deliver that."

Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water is contributing more than a £1 billion a year to the Welsh economy according to a new economic impact assessment from Cardiff Business School.

The report also shows that for every ten jobs created by Welsh Water, a further fifteen are created in the supply chain, supporting more than 6,000 jobs across Wales.

The not-for-profit Company’s financial results show that in the past 12 months £338 million (2012: £262 million) was invested in capital projects and essential infrastructure across Wales, Hereford and Deeside.

Dŵr Cymru confirmed that a further £650 million will be invested over the next two years supporting over 1,000 jobs in the construction industry in Dŵr Cymru’s region.

The Company also announced today that Chris Jones, Finance Director, will succeed Nigel Annett as Chief Executive on 1 September this year.

Nigel will remain with the Company until 31 March next year. Nigel and Chris are the founder directors of Glas Cymru, a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee, and together they conceived, initiated and executed the transaction that in May 2001 resulted in Dŵr Cymru being owned by Glas Cymru on behalf of Dŵr Cymru’s customers.

Commenting on the Preliminary Announcement, Nigel Annett, Managing Director, said: "There have been calls for water companies to share gains with customers.

"In Wales - and in those parts of England served by Dŵr Cymru - the water industry is owned and managed on behalf of the three million people who rely on Dŵr Cymru for what is an essential public service.

"Because of this unique ownership structure all the gains from efficiencies and improving performance are retained for the benefit of our customers. And these gains are significant.

"Average household bills are now lower in real terms than they were in the year before Dŵr Cymru became not-for-profit in 2001. We also help around 52,000 of our less well off household customers with their water bills through a range of social tariffs. That’s more than any other water company.

"We rank with the best performers on the measures that matter for our customers – drinking water quality, protecting our rivers and coastal waters from pollution, reliability of service – and customer satisfaction is consistently over 90%. Last year we got more thank-you letters and emails from our customers than complaints.

"We are now preparing our plans for the future ahead of next year’s regulatory review and our aim is to continue to maintain and improve service levels while keeping customer bills affordable, demonstrating that our ownership structure and purpose really does deliver the very best outcomes for customers – both today’s customers and future generations.”

Commenting on taking over as Chief Executive, Chris Jones said: "I am honoured to be taking over from Nigel and to lead this fantastic company at an important time for the water industry in Wales.

"There are many challenges ahead but we have a great team in Dŵr Cymru who are committed to doing our very best for the three million people who rely on us every day. We have made great progress since Glas Cymru secured the ownership of Dŵr Cymru back in 2001 and I am confident that we can continue that success in the years ahead.”

Professor Max Munday, Director at Cardiff Business School’s Welsh Economy Research Unit, added: "Dŵr Cymru’s spending has a substantial impact in Wales, and this impact is spread across a number of different sectors of the economy. As important is the security of this spending programme which is particularly valuable in these difficult and uncertain times.”

Police in Port Talbot are appealing for information following a burglary at a fitness centre.

The incident happened at the Fit4Less gym in Acacia Avenue in Sandfields sometime between 6pm on Sunday 9th June and 5.30am on Monday 10th June.

The culprits forced entry through a rear door and made off with cash, a 50-inch LG flat screen television, an Acer laptop computer and various protein supplements.

The protein shakes stolen during the burglary were manufactured by Pro Supplements and there was also a quantity of Dynamic Pro hormones.

Sergeant Donna Llewellyn, of the Sandfields Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "We are appealing to anyone with information about the burglary or the whereabouts of the stolen property to come forward.

"We believe that the various items stolen could end up being offered for sale so we would ask any member of the public to contact us should they hear anything in the community.”

Contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The Commission on Devolution in Wales is holding a series of public meetings in Mid and West Wales at the end of June to hear the public’s views on devolution.

The Commission is encouraging as many people as possible to come along to find out more about its work and have their say. Between 25 and 27 June, the Commission will be visiting:

• Tue 25 June 12.30-2pm Drop in session Coleg Powys, Newtown
• Tue 25 June 6.30-8pm Public meeting National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth
• Wed 26 June 10.30am-12pm Drop in session Torch Theatre, Milford Haven
• Wed 26 June 6.30-8pm Public meeting Halliwell Centre, Carmarthen
• Thursday 27 June 6.30-8pm Public meeting Grand Theatre, Swansea

Chairman Paul Silk said: "Over the course of the last two months, we have been visiting communities across Wales giving members of the public the opportunity to voice their views.

"At the end of June, we will be in Mid and West Wales to hear the public’s views on the current Welsh devolution settlement and how it is working in practice. We’ve had lively debates in each venue we’ve visited and this has been invaluable to us as a Commission.

"In addition to our public events, there are a number of other ways that the public can share their views with us.

"Our website hosts a forum and questionnaire and we welcome the public getting in touch with us via email, letter or phone. I cannot emphasise enough how important it is for people to engage with us, either at our events or through our website – please get involved and join the debate.”

Swans star Leon Britton is urging people to get their nominations in now for inspirational youngsters who deserve a public High 5 for their amazing achievements.

Businesses and charities in the city are backing the search for young people who have made a difference in their communities or succeeded against the odds.

And those who get their nominations in by June 22 could win tickets to see Leon in action at the Liberty Stadium in a Swans game next season.

Midfield star Leon said: "I'm delighted to be the ambassador for the High 5 Awards and I am asking for everyone's help in Swansea to make this year's awards a massive success.

"The High 5 Awards reward children and young people who are making a difference to their own lives or their communities.”

Peter Snadden outgoing President of the Rotary Club of Swansea, said: "Often, there is simply not enough recognition given to our young people who are doing great things often against the odds.

"As a club which has been working with young people since the 1920s we know that there are more of these inspirational youngsters out there than people think.

"That’s why we were looking for a way to bring their successes and good deeds into the spotlight and when High 5 came along and we were delighted to be able to take part.

"The quality of entries and winners last year shows we were right all along about just what wonderful unsung heroes we have out there in our communities overcoming personal challenges or helping others.

"We are looking forward to hearing about this year’s nominees and helping to provide meaningful rewards that will make winning a High 5 an even more special and memorable experience.”

The Rotary Club offers practical support to the High 5 Awards by helping provide a range of prizes which are tailor-made for the winners. Last year they arranged experiences around winners’ individual interests or needs that ranged from seeing a major bank at work to birdwatching island trips.

The High 5 Awards are open to any young person or group aged 19 or under and either a resident or educated in Swansea.

They are run by Swansea Council and sponsored by Gower College and supported by, Swansea City Football Club, The Rotary Club of Swansea, and The Wave.

This year individual prizes are also being sponsored by Swansea Building Society, Chiquito’s restaurant in the city centre and the Entrepreneurship Academy Wales.

For the latest news on the High 5 Awards including prizes for early nominations and to download nomination forms please go to the website at www.swansea.gov.uk/high5awards or find us on facebook at facebook.com/High5Awards

Wales have made four personnel and one positional change for the second test against Japan in Tokyo on Saturday.

Cardiff Blues flanker Josh Navidi will make his international debut at the Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium, in a side that also sees Tom Prydie (Dragons), Rhys Gill (Saracens) and Andries Pretorius (Blues), come into the starting XV.

Robin McBryde’s side won the first test 22-18 in Osaka last weekend and will be looking for their sixth consecutive victory on Saturday. The only change in the front row sees Saracens prop Gill come into the side alongside Emyr Phillips (Scarlets), who will win his second cap and Blues prop Scott Andrews.

Captain Bradley Davies (Blues) continues his partnership with regional teammate Lou Reed in the second row. The new look back row sees James King (Ospreys) switch to blindside, Navidi comes in at openside flanker and Andries Pretorius (Blues), starts for the first time for Wales at No 8.

There is just one change behind the backline where Prydie comes onto the wing. Lloyd Williams (Blues) and Dan Biggar (Ospreys) continue at half-back with Jonathan Spratt (Ospreys) and Owen Williams (Blues) again linking up in the centre.

Liam Williams (Scarlets) and try-scorer in Osaka Harry Robinson (Blues), line-up in the back three alongside Prydie.

Ospreys hooker Scott Baldwin and Scarlets prop Rhodri Jones are again named amongst the replacements. They are joined by Craig Mitchell (Exeter Chiefs) and Dragons’ Andrew Coombs. Dan Baker (Ospreys) who made in debut last weekend again features on the bench alongside Tavis Knoyle (Scarlets), Rhys Patchell (Blues) and Dafydd Howells (Ospreys).

"We were proud of the side’s effort last weekend but know we will have to step it up again on Saturday,” said Head Coach for the Japan tour Robin McBryde. "It was good to see the character of the squad come through in the first test and we will need that again.

"The players have again all put their hands up for selection making it a tough call for us and that shows their determination to get out on the field and represent their country. Japan showed what they are capable of last weekend and we know we will have to be at our best to get the second victory and finish the season on a high.”

WALES: Liam Williams (Scarlets), Harry Robinson (Blues), Owen Williams (Blues), Jonathan Spratt (Ospreys), Tom Prydie (Dragons), Dan Biggar (Ospreys), Lloyd Williams (Blues), Rhys Gill (Saracens), Emyr Phillips (Scarlets), Scott Andrews (Blues), Bradley Davies (CAPT) (Blues), Lou Reed (Blues), James King (Ospreys), Josh Navidi (Blues), Andries Pretorius (Blues).

Replacements: Scott Baldwin (Ospreys), Rhodri Jones (Scarlets), Craig Mitchell (Exeter Chiefs), Andrew Coombs (Dragons), Dan Baker (Ospreys), Tavis Knoyle (Scarlets), Rhys Patchell (Blues), Dafydd Howells (Ospreys).

Sam Warburton will captain the British and Irish Lions in their match against New South Wales Waratahs on Saturday.

Six other Wales players have been named in Warren Gatland's starting XV.

Ireland's Simon Zebo (pron: zee-boh) will make his Lions debut in their tour match.

Fly-half Jonathan Sexton has recovered from a tight hamstring to start, while Rob Kearney is on the bench after recovering from a similar problem.

British and Irish Lions team to play New South Wales Waratahs in Sydney on Saturday:

L Halfpenny; S Maitland, J Davies, J Roberts, S Zebo; J Sexton, M Phillips; M Vunipola, T Youngs, A Jones, A-W Jones, P O'Connell, T Croft, S Warburton (captain), J Heaslip.

Replacements: R Hibbard, A Corbisiero, D Cole, G Parling, D Lydiate, B Youngs, O Farrell, R Kearney.

Unemployment in Wales has stayed the same, with 125,000 people out of work for the three months to the end of April.

The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics follow falls in the previous two months.

They also show that unemployment's down 6,000 on the year.

And the number of people claiming jobseekers' allowance last month, was also down slightly.

UK unemployment fell 5,000 to 2.51m.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: "Today's statistics again show that over the year Wales has outperformed the UK average in terms of employment, unemployment and economic inactivity.

"However the latest figures show that the economic situation in Wales remains challenging due to the weak global economy and spending cuts imposed by the UK Government.

"Whilst the UK Government holds all the major macroeconomic tools, we are doing all we can to help people back into jobs or training.

"Our flagship unemployment programme, Jobs Growth Wales has created more than 6000 additional jobs since April 2012, and seen over 4,900 young people take up a job opportunity. Since 2008, our Business Start-up programme has helped establish 5775 new enterprises and create more than 12,100 jobs - with a further 10,500 jobs expected to be created by June 2015."

Welsh Secretary David Jones said: "It is very encouraging that the latest statistics continue to show encouraging signs of growth in Wales and these figures show Wales moving in the right direction.

"The UK Government has made supporting our economy a priority and today’s figures show we are on the right track.

"It is positive that here are now 32,000 more people in work than this time last year.

"I will be holding a second Job Summit, this time in North Wales, to encourage and open up discussions on employment and the issues businesses face.”

Plans have been revealed for a £200million power station in Hirwaun.

Hirwaun Power Ltd says the scheme would inject tens of millions of pounds into the local economy.

If given the go-ahead, the gas-fired power station would be built on the Hirwaun Industrial Estate in Rhondda Cynon Taf.

The company will consult with local people and organisations before applying for permission to build the £200m power station.

The project will support hundreds of jobs during the construction and commissioning period, and up to 30 full-time jobs when operational.

Hirwaun Power station will produce up to 299 megawatts (MW) of electricity – the equivalent of supplying 400,000 homes.

Hirwaun Power will engage with local communities before applying for development consent to build the power station.

An initial phase of public information events to introduce the project will be held at venues in Rhigos and Hirwaun on:

• Rhigos Community Centre (Heol Esgyn, Rhigos, CF44 9BX) Thursday, June 20th – 5.00pm till 8.00pm.
• YMCA Hirwaun (Manchester Place, Hirwaun, CF44 9RB) Friday, June 21st – 12 noon till 7.00pm and Saturday, June 22nd – 09:00am till 1.00pm.

Members of the Hirwaun Power project team will be on hand at the exhibitions to explain the development procedure and how the consultation process is expected to evolve.

As the project is at an early stage, there will be no drawings, artists’ impressions or models on display.

Hirwaun Power proposes to take gas from the nearby National Gas Transmission System and use it to generate electricity. This energy will feed into the National Grid, which also runs very close to the site.

Norman Campbell is the managing director of Watt Power, the parent company of Hirwaun Power and has principal responsibility for the project.

He said "This power station will be an ultra modern and clean facility and a very significant investment in the local economy. We will seek to maximise local economic benefit, both during construction and operations.

"This will be achieved through direct job opportunities, and also indirectly through the various companies that will supply and support the power station in the future.

"This power station will cost approximately £200 million, and tens of millions of that investment would be spent with local companies. We are strongly committed to benefiting the local area and engaging companies and job seekers.”

He continued: "Before seeking permission to build the plant, there will be an extensive consultation process with Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council and with local people and interest groups.

"This is extremely important to us, as we want to explain our plan in detail and listen to what people have to say.

"Information material will be distributed to households, businesses and other organisations. There will also be a series of information days where people can meet the project team, ask questions and voice their opinion. We will advertise public consultations in local media and on the project website, www.hirwaunpower.co.uk."

Mr Campbell added that the proposed Hirwaun Power Plant would help to meet electricity demand for homes and workplaces.

"There is a need to replace a significant number of coal and oil-fired power stations in the UK that will close in the near future,” he said.

"It is accepted that without new electricity generating capacity, there could be difficulty meeting energy demand in the UK within several years. In addition, gas fired power stations will provide back-up to the intermittency of onshore and offshore wind power and support Wales’ move towards a low carbon economy.

"The proposed Hirwaun Power Plant would be efficient and produce energy much more cleanly than the coal and oil-fired power stations it would replace. We will do our utmost to ensure that the power plant will cause the minimum disturbance locally, during construction and subsequent operation.

Mr Campbell said that Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council and the Welsh Government had been briefed on the proposal.

Following consultation and feedback from communities and interest groups, Hirwaun Power intends to submit an application for a Development Consent Order to the UK’s Planning Inspectorate later this year, with a final decision taken by the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change.

Additional consents, including planning permissions, may also be required for elements of the project.

Subject to the consultation and planning process and financing, the power station could enter commercial operation in 2018.  

The council is among the first in Wales to sign up to the Welsh Procurement Policy that requires public sector organisations to spend as much of their money locally as possible.

Swansea Council already spends £75 million every year with Swansea-based businesses and suppliers, and a further £58 million a year with businesses and suppliers based elsewhere in Wales.

Cllr Rob Stewart, Cabinet Member for Finance, says signing up to the new policy will allow the council to build on a position of strength.
"We’re a multi-million pound business and we work hard to ensure every last penny of our spending benefits tax-payers across the city, but it’s also vitally important our local businesses benefit from our spending too,” he said.

"This helps sustain local employment and ensures our spending is often reinvested back into the communities we serve.

"I’m proud that Swansea Council is leading the way on local spending.”

The council also gives local firms and suppliers the chance to win major construction contracts like multi-million pound school refurbishment projects.
Swansea Council was also the first local authority in Wales to make social benefits part and parcel of its major construction projects contracts as part of its  Beyond Bricks and Mortar scheme. 

This ensures Swansea’s long-term unemployed get the chance to land jobs and work experience on major contracts such as building schools. This scheme has benefitted over 100 local people in the last four years and opened up more than 2,500 weeks of training. It’s changed many people’s lives and given them the skills to find sustainable work.

Cllr Sybil Crouch, Cabinet Member for Sustainability, said: "Swansea Council is yet again setting the standard for Wales, making an important contribution to economic sustainability and resilience. This is good for jobs and good for business, and helps stop money leaking out of the local economy."

Swansea Council holds the Green Dragon Status Award for its consideration for ethical purchasing and buying behaviour. It’s also preparing a Gold WWF (World Wildlife Fund) pledge for performance in buying sustainable products.

Michael Laudrup's been named best boss in the Premier League's ... and that's by his fellow managers.

The Swans boss took 46 per cent of the vote in the survey for Barclays by the League Managers' Association.

And there was more good news for the Swans ... Michu was named signing of the season, having scored 19 goals so far this season.

Teenager Ben Davies was mentioned in the best young player category.

If you're looking for Welsh speakers .... don't go to Townhill in Swansea.

It's just come second on a list of places in Wales where people are unable to speak, read or write Welsh.

According to latest census figures, Only 3.7 per cent of people there can speak the language.

There were 157 council wards with over 50% of Welsh speakers in 2011, compared to 192 in 2001.

Census figures released in December showed an overall drop of 2% in the number of people who speak Welsh to 19% of the population in Wales.

The place in Wales with the highest proportion of people, aged over three who can speak read or write Welsh was Penygroes in Gwynedd, at 78.9%.

This was followed by Llanrug, also in Gwynedd (at 78.8%) and the Bethel ward (77.1%).

The area with the least ability to speak, read and write Welsh was Churchstoke in Powys at 2.7%, followed by Townhill in Swansea at 3.7% and Saltney in Flintshire at 3.8%.

British Airways flight 196 from Houston to Heathrow had to make a diversion to South Wales.

The Boeing 747 developed instrument problems during its transatlantic flight.

The plane which was carrying 140 passengers, landed safely at 10.43am.

All emergency services attended the incident.

Dr Ruth Hussey OBE starts work this week as the new chief medical officer of Wales.

It follows the retirement of Dr Tony Jewell in August. 

Dr Hussey was born and brought up in the Conwy Valley, living there until she went to university.

Dr Hussey has worked as a Regional Director of Public Health and Senior Medical Director at NHS North West, and led the Department of Health in the North West region. Most recently, she has been on secondment to the Public Health England Transition Team, leading the transition of the public health function from the NHS to local Government.

Dr Hussey said: "I’m delighted to start work in Wales. I’m looking forward to contributing to the work of the Welsh Government, addressing the challenges of improving the health and well being of the population and supporting the provision of high-quality healthcare.

"I’m looking forward to making a difference in a role which ranges from tackling the causes of illness, to caring for people.

"Building on Dr Jewell’s extensive work, I’ll be working to put prevention at the heart of healthcare, and to promote improved quality of care across Wales.

"It’s a broad role, reflecting the breadth of solutions needed to address the health and well being challenges we face in Wales. Everyone has a part to play so building relationships and integrated approaches will be critical to success.

"I am honoured to have the opportunity to serve the people of Wales in this role and I am committed to doing all I can to improve health and well being in the 21st century.”

Health Minister Lesley Griffiths AM said: "I’m pleased to welcome Dr Hussey to Wales. She has extensive experience at a senior level, and is well placed to lead the NHS during the period of change ahead. It is an exciting time to be working in health in Wales, and I know she will build on Dr Jewell’s work to help us create the conditions for healthier lifestyles and improved healthcare for all.”

Llanelli's Dai Greene will be hoping to put the disappointment of the semis behind him tonight when he goes for gold in the 400 metres hurdles finals.

He only just qualified after a disappointing finish in the semi finals on Saturday.

But the 26-year-old's time was quick enough to make the final as one of the two fastest outside the top two.

The Swansea Harrier is among the favourites for gold and admitted to being shocked at his semi-final performance.

Greene will be in lane three for tonight's 400-metre men's hurdles final which is due to start at 8.45pm.

Hundreds of his family, friends and training colleagues will gather at Swansea Harriers base on Ashley Road this evening.

Dai's former teacher at Coedcae Comprehensive Marian Williams will be there.

She has told us how she encouraged him to join the athetics club when he was a youngster.

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