The regulator concluded that Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water had failed to properly operate, maintain and upgrade parts of its sewage infrastructure to cope with wastewater volumes, resulting in repeated pollution incidents.

Ofwat has now formally accepted a £44.7m redress package proposed by the company earlier this year following a public consultation. The regulator stressed that the money will not come from customer bills.

Lynn Parker, Ofwat’s Senior Director for Enforcement, said: “Our investigation found serious and unacceptable breaches in how Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water has operated its wastewater assets which has resulted in excessive spills to the environment.

“With this investigation now concluded, we expect the company to focus on putting things right so that customers can regain trust in their water company.”

The announcement comes after years of concern about sewage pollution affecting rivers, beaches and coastal waters across Wales, including several high-profile incidents in North Wales.

In Llandudno, concerns have repeatedly been raised over sewage discharges affecting West Shore Beach. Campaigners and residents have highlighted occasions when bathing water warnings were issued following storm overflows, while discharges into nearby watercourses have fuelled fears about the impact on water quality, tourism and marine life.

Elsewhere in North Wales, pollution incidents and sewage overflows have attracted scrutiny in areas including the River Conwy catchment, parts of the Menai Strait and along stretches of the North Wales coastline where storm overflow discharges have occurred during periods of heavy rainfall. Environmental groups have argued that ageing infrastructure and increasing pressure on sewer networks have contributed to recurring problems.

The issue has become a growing public concern, with water quality increasingly under the spotlight as communities seek greater transparency over sewage releases and their environmental impact.

Under the agreed package, £40.6m will be invested in projects designed to reduce sewage spills, minimise environmental harm and tackle groundwater entering the sewer network. A further £4.1m will be used to improve river quality in some of the most environmentally sensitive catchments.

Welsh Water acknowledged that its performance had fallen below expectations in some areas but said improvements were beginning to emerge.

A spokesperson said: “While the company recognises performance remains below the standards customers rightly expect in a number of areas, there have been early signs of improvement during 2025-26.”

The company said the investment would help reduce storm overflow discharges, address groundwater infiltration and improve river water quality.

Chief Executive Roch Cheroux said: “We know that in some areas we have not delivered the level of service our customers and communities expect, particularly on environmental performance.

“That is why we are investing at record levels to improve resilience, strengthen ageing infrastructure and deliver more reliable services, while keeping bills as affordable as possible.”

The payout represents one of the most significant enforcement outcomes involving Welsh Water in recent years and comes amid continuing pressure on water companies across the UK to tackle sewage pollution and improve environmental performance.

The striking art installation was created by students from the Additional Learning Needs (ALN) school in partnership with local artist Mel Roberts of Mazin Mosaics, with support from teachers, staff and the Conwy Valley and North Wales Coast Community Rail Partnership (CRP).

Inspired by their journeys on the Conwy Valley Line, the history of the railway and some of North Wales’ most recognisable landmarks, the students spent 12 weeks designing and creating a series of colourful mosaic panels which will now be permanently displayed at the station.

Funded by Transport for Wales, the project gave learners the opportunity to develop new creative skills, explore design and storytelling, and work collaboratively on a piece of public art that can be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.

Mel Roberts said: “Working with the pupils and staff of Ysgol Y Gogarth, and Karen (Community Rail Officer) has been a fulfilling and fun experience. From the outset, the pupils have been engaged, eager to learn and have grown in confidence in both working together and in their mosaic making skills. They should be proud, as I am, of the beautiful mosaics.”

Janine Tennant-Jones, a teacher at Ysgol Y Gogarth, said the project had provided a meaningful learning experience for pupils.

“It has provided authentic opportunities for young people to develop their creativity, confidence and collaboration skills while engaging with their local area and cynefin in a purposeful and inclusive way,” she said.

“We are incredibly proud of our learners and the legacy they have created for the wider community to enjoy at Llandudno railway station for years to come.”

The project forms part of the wider Railway 200 celebrations, commemorating two centuries since the birth of the modern railway while encouraging future generations to engage with rail travel and innovation.

Melanie Lawton, Community Rail Strategic Lead at Transport for Wales, said: “Llandudno is known as the Queen of Welsh resorts. This project with Ysgol Gogarth has connected the community to the railway in a joyous way. The artwork creates a sense of place, and for our passengers travelling at Llandudno railway station to enjoy.”

Karen Williams, Community Rail Officer for the Conwy Valley and North Wales Coast CRP, praised the pupils’ dedication throughout the project.

“Week after week, the pupils demonstrated outstanding determination and passion through their chosen artwork. They used materials and tools safely, respectfully and with great care while working together to create these wonderful pieces,” she said.

The unveiling coincides with Community Rail Week, a national celebration of the partnerships, volunteers and projects that help connect communities through Britain’s railways.

The Conwy Valley and North Wales Coast Community Rail Partnership said the project highlights the importance of inclusivity, creativity and community engagement, while helping ensure railway stations reflect the communities they serve.

The Albert Gubay Centre of Excellence in Construction and Motor Vehicle Engineering will be built at Coleg Llandrillo’s Rhyl campus, creating a state-of-the-art training hub aimed at tackling skills shortages, supporting economic growth and helping North Wales meet net-zero ambitions.

Funded by The Albert Gubay Charitable Foundation, the development will expand training opportunities in key sectors including carpentry, masonry, plumbing, green construction skills and vehicle maintenance.

College leaders say the project will play a significant role in Rhyl’s regeneration by providing modern industry-focused facilities, helping raise aspirations among local learners and improving employment prospects across the region.

The centre will also offer specialist training in hybrid and electric vehicle maintenance, alongside low-carbon construction techniques. Students will gain practical experience in sustainable building methods, including timber-frame construction and renewable energy technologies such as solar panel installation.

The development builds on the college’s existing expertise in renewable energy training, including its wind turbine provision, further strengthening Rhyl’s position as a centre for green skills in North Wales.

Paul Flanagan, Principal of Coleg Llandrillo, said the facility would help meet the needs of both employers and local communities.

“This facility is about meeting the real needs of our region and communities – both now and in the future,” he said.

“The Centre of Excellence will not only expand opportunities for local learners, but also play a vital role in the regeneration of Rhyl by equipping people with the skills that employers are actively seeking.”

He thanked The Albert Gubay Charitable Foundation for its support, describing the investment as “extremely generous”.

Mr Flanagan added: “As we move towards a net-zero economy, the demand for green skills is accelerating. This facility ensures that our learners are at the forefront of that transition, gaining the expertise required in sustainable construction and low-emission vehicle technologies.”

The centre is named in honour of Albert Gubay, the Rhyl-born businessman and philanthropist who built a business empire worth more than £700 million and devoted much of his wealth to charitable causes.

Its focus on practical trades, including joinery, masonry, building services and vehicle maintenance, reflects Mr Gubay’s long-standing interest in vocational skills and his commitment to investing in opportunities that benefit North Wales.

Construction is expected to begin this summer, with the new facility due to welcome its first learners in spring 2028.

The restrictions were introduced by Eryri National Park Authority (ENPA) on 1 April in an effort to tackle issues including littering, anti-social behaviour and inappropriate overnight stays in car parks.

However, a new report due to be discussed by the authority later this month has recommended that the ban be suspended at nine of the 11 locations, acknowledging that the issue is “not straightforward”.

The move follows concerns that preventing overnight parking in designated car parks may simply push vehicles into nearby lay-bys, villages and residential areas, creating new problems for local communities.

Eryri, also known as Snowdonia, attracts almost four million visitors every year. Many walkers heading for Yr Wyddfa, the highest mountain in Wales, begin their journeys during the early hours in order to reach the summit for sunrise.

Critics of the overnight parking ban argued that the restrictions made it more difficult for responsible visitors, particularly hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, to access the mountains safely at unsociable hours.

The report recognises the need to balance environmental protection and community concerns with the needs of visitors who rely on overnight parking before setting off on early morning adventures.

If approved, the recommendation would see the overnight parking restrictions paused at nine sites while further consideration is given to the long-term management of the car parks.

The National Park Authority is expected to debate the proposals later this month before making a final decision.

Alan Lawrie, from Penrhyn Bay, signed up for an Education Programmes for Patients (EPP) Cymru Diabetes Self-Management course after being diagnosed with diabetes in 2023.

Describing the diagnosis as a wake-up call, Alan said the six-week programme helped him understand the seriousness of the condition and make significant lifestyle changes that transformed his health.

Since completing the course, he has reduced his blood glucose level from 120 to 38 and has gone on to become an accredited volunteer tutor, supporting other people living with long-term conditions.

“The course was actually a bit of a shock and helped me reflect on habits such as buying cans of coke or having lots of orange juice and carbs,” he said.

“Some of the complications of diabetes can be losing a limb, having a stroke or having very poor mental health or depression. I think I just didn’t understand the implications until I was diagnosed, and it was a wake-up call for my family too.”

Alan now helps deliver courses and says he regularly sees participants gain confidence and build friendships as they learn to manage their conditions.

“As a tutor, it’s great to see how the participants change during the six-week course,” he said.

“They are looking for a lifeline, and by week three they are making friends and coming alive. The courses are about rethinking the situation, problem solving and reinforcing all the things we should be doing to help ourselves – such as exercise, having a diet plan and dealing with different emotions.”

The story comes as health leaders look to expand access to self-management programmes across Wales through a new partnership between the Bevan Commission and NHS Wales Performance and Improvement.

The collaboration aims to help more people living with long-term conditions gain the skills and confidence needed to manage their own health, improving quality of life while reducing pressure on NHS services.

The issue is particularly significant in North Wales, where diabetes remains one of the most common long-term health conditions. According to health board figures and national data, thousands of people across the region are living with either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, while many more are thought to be at risk through obesity, inactivity and poor diet.

Across Wales, almost half of the population (48 per cent) lives with at least one long-term condition. These conditions can often lead to social isolation, anxiety, reduced confidence and increased reliance on healthcare services.

EPP Cymru’s courses are designed to tackle those challenges by helping people develop practical self-management skills, improve wellbeing and connect with others facing similar experiences.

EPP Cymru Self-Management Lead Christine Roach welcomed the new partnership and said it would help secure the future of the programme.

“I am thoroughly looking forward to working with the Bevan Commission to identify new opportunities to explore, develop and transform the EPP Cymru programme, ensuring it is both sustainable and fit for the future,” she said.

“Our goal is to expand and future-proof the EPP Cymru offer for NHS Wales and industry by maximising the skills, assets, network and drawing upon the independent lens and credibility that the Bevan Commission brings to the table.”

EPP Cymru provides support for people living with a range of long-term conditions, including diabetes, cancer, persistent pain, bone health conditions and HIV, as well as dedicated support for carers.

The programme is also exploring the development of a National Peer Support Service after a pilot scheme received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with 97 per cent of participants describing peer support as highly effective.

For Alan, the message is simple: the right support can make a huge difference.

What began as a frightening diagnosis has become an opportunity to help others, with the Penrhyn Bay resident now using his own experience to show that positive lifestyle changes and peer support can help people live well with diabetes rather than be defined by it.

The independent body has recommended that both the Westminster and Welsh Governments should have powers to approve and regulate new methods of dealing with the dead as they emerge, without requiring fresh Acts of Parliament each time.

At present, burial, cremation and burial at sea are the only methods formally recognised in law in England and Wales.

The recommendation comes after Scotland became the first nation in the UK to allow water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or resomation, in March this year.

Water cremation involves placing a body, wrapped in a biodegradable shroud, into a chamber containing hot water and alkaline chemicals. The process accelerates natural decomposition, leaving bone fragments which can be returned to relatives in a similar way to ashes after cremation.

Another method highlighted in the report is human composting, also known as terramation. This process places the deceased in a specially designed container filled with organic materials such as wood chips and straw. Over a period of several weeks, natural decomposition transforms the body into soil.

The Law Commission noted that water cremation is already available in parts of Australia and Canada, while both water cremation and human composting are used in some areas of the United States.

While the commission stopped short of recommending that either method should be introduced immediately, it said there is a growing need for a clear legal framework capable of accommodating future developments in funeral and burial practices.

Its report argues that governments should have the flexibility to respond to changing technologies and public preferences through secondary legislation rather than needing to pass new primary legislation whenever a new method emerges.

The commission said decisions on whether specific methods should ultimately be approved remain a matter for elected governments, but warned that the current legal framework is not designed to deal with innovative alternatives that may become increasingly popular in the years ahead.

If adopted, the recommendations could pave the way for a wider range of environmentally focused funeral options for families across England and Wales, reflecting changing attitudes towards death, sustainability and memorial practices.

The North Wales region has confirmed that four standout youngsters have earned promotion after impressing throughout the past year, continuing RGC’s commitment to developing home-grown talent capable of making an impact at senior and international level.

Among those stepping up is Oswestry back-row forward Dylan Avery, who captained the RGC Under-18 side during a strong campaign. Coaches have praised his powerful carrying, aggressive defence and ability to disrupt opposition ball at the breakdown. Dylan will combine his rugby development with studies at Bangor University.

Joining him from Oswestry is exciting wing prospect Jac Williams. A standout performer in both Regional Age Grade rugby and the Welsh Schools & Colleges competition, Jac’s performances earned him selection for Wales Under-18s. He will also continue his education at Bangor University while developing within the senior programme.

Pwllheli fly-half Gwern ap Rhys has also earned promotion after impressing when training alongside the senior squad last season. Coaches highlighted his game management, kicking ability and rugby intelligence. Alongside rugby, Gwern is pursuing opportunities to train as an accountant.

Completing the quartet is Nant Conwy full-back Aron Roberts. Despite suffering injuries during the second half of last season, Aron caught the eye with his strong kicking game and positive attitude. He too will combine rugby with studies at Bangor University.

RGC Academy Manager Josh Leach said the promotions reflected the hard work being carried out throughout the academy structure.

“Off the back of the good work the Academy staff have done over the past two years, it’s great to see another good group of Junior Academy players progressing into the Senior Academy,” he said.

“In our efforts to develop future professional and international players for Wales, as well as a strong and sustainable future for RGC, strong junior programmes are essential for laying the foundations across a wider group of players.”

Leach said the academy had invested heavily in its Emerging Player Programme and in providing talented youngsters with opportunities to test themselves against older age groups.

He added that with talented prospects such as Caio James and Charlie Titcombe having moved into professional environments further south, opportunities now exist for the latest intake to gain valuable game time in Super Rygbi Cymru.

“Gradually, over the next couple of years, we will be wanting to see the impact they have in SRC games increase to the point that they are on the regional and national radar,” he said.

The latest promotions continue a development pathway that has become increasingly important for rugby in North Wales. Based at Stadiwm Eirias in Colwyn Bay, RGC represent the region within Welsh domestic rugby and have built a reputation for nurturing talent from communities stretching from Anglesey and Gwynedd to Conwy, Denbighshire and Wrexham.

In recent years, a growing number of academy graduates have progressed into professional rugby, with the region’s focus on player development viewed as a key part of strengthening the future of the game across North Wales.

As preparations continue for the new Super Rygbi Cymru campaign, RGC supporters will be eager to see whether the next generation can follow in the footsteps of those who have successfully made the leap from academy rugby to the senior stage.

The fund, which is supported by the Clocaenog Forest Wind Farm near Denbigh, offers grants of between £1,000 and £35,000 to eligible businesses operating within the designated area of benefit.

Applications must be submitted by 5pm on Monday, July 13, with successful projects expected to be announced following a panel meeting in October. The earliest approved projects can begin is November 2026.

The funding forms part of a £19 million community benefit package linked to the wind farm, which is owned by RWE and built on Welsh Government land managed by Natural Resources Wales. The 96MW development comprises 27 turbines and generates enough renewable electricity to power around 63,800 homes each year.

Since launching in 2020, the fund which is administered by CVSC has supported a wide range of projects aimed at strengthening rural communities and local economies across the surrounding area.

The business fund is open to both start-up and established businesses registered within the Clocaenog area of benefit. Applicants must demonstrate how their project will contribute to at least one of five key themes: prosperous communities, health and wellbeing, the economy, conservation and the environment, or digital development.

Projects could include business expansion, job creation, tourism initiatives, training opportunities, farm diversification, broadband improvements, digital skills programmes, environmental schemes and investments that help improve community facilities.

The fund is particularly significant for rural parts of North Wales, where access to investment can often be more limited than in urban areas. Business leaders and community groups have long highlighted the importance of grant schemes in helping rural enterprises grow, create jobs and support local services.

Funding can be used for both capital and revenue projects, although applicants will need to provide a detailed business plan, financial forecasts and evidence of match funding. Businesses seeking grants between £1,000 and £10,000 must contribute at least 10 per cent match funding, while projects over £10,000 require a minimum contribution of 30 per cent.

Applications will be assessed by an independent local panel made up of community representatives from across the area.

Businesses are encouraged to discuss proposals with fund administrators before applying to ensure projects meet the fund’s criteria.

The maximum grant available is £35,000 over a three-year period, although larger applications may be considered in exceptional circumstances within Zone 1 of the funding area.

Organisers say the scheme continues to demonstrate how renewable energy developments can provide long-term benefits to local communities, helping to create jobs, improve infrastructure and support economic resilience across rural North Wales.

Further information, including application forms and guidance notes, is available through the Clocaenog Forest Wind Farm Fund, with all applications required to be submitted before the July deadline.

The study by Public Health Wales found that people aged between 16 and 29 were the most likely age group to regularly consume takeaways, with 27% reporting they ate them two or more times each week.

Researchers said younger adults were also more likely to have diets high in foods linked to an increased risk of becoming overweight or obese.

The findings come as Wales continues to grapple with high levels of obesity. According to public health data, more than half of adults in Wales are overweight or obese, while excess weight remains a significant risk factor for conditions including heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers.

Dr Catherine Sharp, of Public Health Wales, said healthier choices need to become easier for young people to make.

She said the rise of food delivery apps had transformed the way people access meals, making it possible to order food quickly and conveniently with just a few taps on a smartphone.

Young adults who took part in the study reported feeling targeted by promotional offers, discounts and loyalty schemes from food delivery companies, making it harder to resist unhealthy options.

The research, known as the Time to Talk study, examined people’s eating habits across a range of settings, including takeaways, ready meals and visits to cafés and restaurants.

It found a clear age divide in eating patterns. While 27% of 16 to 29-year-olds reported eating two or more takeaways a week, the figure fell to 18% among 30 to 49-year-olds, 8% among 50 to 69-year-olds and just 2% among people aged 70 and over.

The findings may resonate in North Wales, where town centres and retail parks have seen a growing presence of takeaway outlets and food delivery services in recent years. In larger communities such as Wrexham, Bangor, Llandudno and Rhyl, app-based food deliveries have become increasingly common, particularly among students and younger working adults.

Food historian and broadcaster Polly Russell said changing lifestyles have also played a role. She suggested that busier working patterns, fewer traditional meal times and the growth of convenience culture have all contributed to people relying more heavily on takeaway food than previous generations.

Public Health Wales said the research highlights the need for wider changes to food environments, making healthy options more accessible and affordable, rather than relying solely on individuals to make better choices.

The organisation hopes the findings will help shape future policies aimed at improving diets and tackling obesity across Wales, particularly among younger adults who are most at risk of developing unhealthy eating habits early in life.

The Seagulls have announced that Louis Robles, Sam Hart, Seb Osment and Aron Williams have all committed their futures to the club, providing a further boost to manager Danny Holmes and Director of Football Mike Wilde as recruitment plans gather pace.

The latest announcements come as Colwyn Bay continue to build on several years of progress on and off the pitch. The club has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence in recent seasons, recovering from the disappointment of relegation to regain its place among Welsh football’s elite and establish itself as a genuine contender in the Cymru Premier.

The name change to The Blue Turtle Arena is just one example of the club’s continued development away from the pitch. Alongside improvements to its facilities and growing commercial partnerships, Colwyn Bay has strengthened its position as one of North Wales’ leading football clubs, while maintaining strong links with the local community and an ambition to compete for European football.

Under the stewardship of former Wales international Mike Wilde and manager Danny Holmes, the Bay have combined experienced recruitment with a clear long-term vision. The club has enjoyed league title success, promotion campaigns and memorable battles in the top flight, with supporters increasingly believing a return to European competition is within reach.

The club has also pledged its support to Alex Downes as he continues his recovery, while long-serving defender Jamie Cumming will depart due to work and family commitments.

Speaking about the latest squad update, Mike Wilde said: “As our recruitment continues, we’re pleased to have retained a further four members of our 25/26 squad in addition to being able to support Alex Downes in his recovery.

“With all that being said, it’s sad to see Jamie Cumming depart the club due to his personal circumstances, and he moves on with the best wishes of everyone at the club.”

Cumming leaves after four years at the club, during which he became a popular figure among supporters and played a role in some of the most memorable moments of the Seagulls’ recent history.

Confirming his departure, he said: “Seagulls, thank you and goodbye.

“After four incredible years, I’ve made the difficult decision to leave Colwyn Bay due to work and family commitments.

“Unfortunately, the commitment required and the commitment I’d like to be able to give isn’t going to be possible next year due to factors away from football.

“I’ve had some of the best experiences of my life, both on and off the pitch, whilst playing for Colwyn Bay and it’s a place I’ll always have fond memories of.

“I’d like to thank everybody involved in the club from the volunteers, staff, fans and the lads I’ve been fortunate enough to share a dressing room with.

“From league titles, to relegations and European play-offs, I’d love to help finish the job we started and get this club a place in Europe but unfortunately that won’t be possible.

“I’m proud to have played a small part in getting this club closer to where it belongs and look forward to watching how Wildey, Danny and the lads get on in the coming season.

“Thank you again and see you soon.”

The retention of four key squad members, coupled with further recruitment expected in the coming weeks, signals Colwyn Bay’s determination to continue its upward trajectory and challenge for the European places that remain a major ambition for the club and its supporters.

The railway will close in the early hours of Saturday, June 6 and reopen in the early hours of Monday, June 8, allowing Network Rail teams uninterrupted access to carry out maintenance and improvement work linked to the ongoing Network North Wales upgrade programme and the recent introduction of a new timetable.

A series of projects will be completed across the route during the closure.

In Pensarn, foundation and site preparation work will take place ahead of the installation of a new accessible footbridge.

Network Rail has previously described the nearby Pen Uchaf and Ty Gwyn level crossings at Pensarn as among the highest-risk crossings on the Wales and Borders network. The crossings are regularly used by families, dog walkers and holidaymakers, with reports of near misses and misuse recorded in recent years.

The new accessible footbridge forms part of wider plans to provide a safer route across the railway ahead of increased train services on the North Wales Coast line. Network Rail says closing or replacing level crossings is the most effective way to reduce the risk of accidents on the railway.

The bridge is also intended to improve accessibility for pedestrians, including people with reduced mobility, cyclists and families with pushchairs, while supporting future active travel links in the area.

At Flint, drainage improvements will be carried out to help reduce the risk of flooding and improve the long-term resilience of the railway.

Meanwhile, at Rhyl, sleeper replacements will be carried out on Saturday night to help maintain track quality and provide smoother, more reliable journeys for passengers.

No train services will run between Chester and Llandudno Junction during the closure, with replacement transport operating instead.

The work forms part of continued investment in the North Wales railway and is aimed at maintaining reliability following the recent timetable uplift, which has introduced 50 per cent more train services across the route.

The improvements will also support future accessibility upgrades and help keep the railway safe and resilient for passengers, staff and freight services.

Colin Lea, Planning and Performance Director at Transport for Wales, said: “We’re encouraging all passengers travelling between Llandudno Junction and Chester to check before they travel over the weekend.

“As no trains will run between these destinations, our Manchester Airport, Cardiff Central and Liverpool Lime Street services will start and terminate at Chester, while services from Holyhead will terminate at Llandudno Junction.

“We’ll be running rail replacement services between Llandudno Junction and Chester roughly every half an hour on the Saturday, and every hour on the Sunday. We’ll also have ticket acceptance in place with Arriva Bus.

“Please allow extra time for your journey and check before you travel using our website or app.”

Passengers are being urged to plan ahead and check journeys before travelling.

Aled Morris, a Llangollen farmer and Agricultural Engineering lecturer at the college's Llysfasi campus, returned to work to cheers and applause after the Britain's Got Talent final, where the Hawkstone Farmers Choir beat drone light show act Celestial to take the crown.

The 34-strong choir, made up of farmers and agricultural workers from across the UK, captivated millions of viewers with emotional performances and a powerful message highlighting mental health and suicide prevention in the farming industry.

Formed in May 2025, the choir originally came together for a Hawkstone beer advertising campaign before evolving into a close-knit support network for those working in agriculture. More than 500 people applied to join the group, which includes 10 members from Wales.

For Aled, the journey began after his fiancée Sarah encouraged him to apply when he saw an advert looking for farmers who could sing.

"I can hold a tune, so I sent in a video of myself singing Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau and was lucky enough to be accepted," he said.

"It was only when I pulled into the car park at Jeremy Clarkson's pub, The Farmer's Dog, that I realised what was actually happening.

"We were there to film an advert for Hawkstone beer. It was a controversial advert, but we had so much fun doing it. Jeremy has done so much for the farming community and was incredibly supportive throughout.

"We all stayed in touch afterwards through a WhatsApp group, and then our musical director suggested entering Britain's Got Talent. The rest is history."

The choir's audition performance of Elbow's One Day Like This earned the coveted Golden Buzzer from judge Amanda Holden, sending them straight through to the live shows.

After winning their semi-final with a moving rendition of Bastille's Pompeii, they reached the grand final, where they performed an original song, This Is Home, inspired by their farming roots.

"To sing an original song on that stage on Saturday night was incredible," said Aled. 

"I still can't believe we won. It feels totally surreal. The whole journey has been amazing, though I don't feel any different. Walking back into college on Monday to cheers and applause from the students was lovely."

The performance left judges visibly emotional. Amanda Holden, who had awarded the choir her Golden Buzzer earlier in the competition, told them: "You've made me cry again. I couldn't be prouder of you."

Aled said one of the choir's key objectives has always been raising awareness of mental health challenges facing people working in agriculture.

"Farming is a very lonely job and mental health is a huge issue across the industry," he said.

"You spend a lot of time alone with your own thoughts, so we wanted to shine a light on that. The response from the public has been overwhelming and incredibly uplifting. It feels like the nation has our back."

The choir has pledged to donate a significant proportion of its £250,000 prize money to charities supporting mental health in the farming community, and will perform at the Royal Variety Performance later this year in front of King Charles III.

With a wedding later this month and a Royal Variety appearance ahead, Aled admits life has become a whirlwind.

"Getting married at the end of June and now preparing to sing for the King - it all feels surreal but fantastic. Now we have this wonderful problem of deciding what we are going to sing for the Royal Family!" he said.

Coleg Cambria Head of Llysfasi Elin Roberts added: "We are incredibly proud of Aled and everything he has achieved with the Hawkstone Farmers Choir. His passion for agriculture and dedication to our learners make him a fantastic ambassador for Llysfasi, and his success shines a national spotlight on both farming and the rural communities we serve."

Visit www.cambria.ac.uk for the latest news and information from Coleg Cambria. 

Nineteen-year-old Ashton Allen, who is studying Level 3 Music Performance and Production, hosted the “Symphony of Giving” concert at Theatr Alwyn on the college’s Rhos-on-Sea campus in May.

The event was organised in memory of Ashton’s stepdad, Bayley, who died from a lung condition last year. Funds raised from the concert will go to New Start, the Wythenshawe Hospital Transplant Fund, a cause close to her family’s heart.

Ashton worked alongside friend Jenny, a Level 2 music student, to bring the event together, with a line-up featuring local bands made up of Coleg Llandrillo students. Performers included Bluefin, Amidarla, Anyway Champion, Assembly Point and Glass Angels, while music tutor James also took to the stage with Bluefin.

The concert marked the culmination of Ashton’s college journey, but it came after an incredibly difficult year following Bayley’s death in August.

“It has been hard for me to not quit,” Ashton admitted.

She dedicated the event to Bayley, describing him as “genuinely the strongest person I’ve ever known in my whole life.”

Reflecting on why she chose to organise the concert, Ashton said: “I couldn’t think of a better way to end my third and final year with a big end of year gig and just give everybody a chance to perform together one last time.”

Although nervous about speaking in front of the audience, Ashton said the support she received made the experience unforgettable.

“I felt like running away, but once I got half way through and took a deep breath I calmed down,” she said. “It was amazing seeing how people reacted. I really felt the support and it made me feel that we did something great.”

Ashton, who completes her studies this summer, plans to take a gap year to travel, spend time with friends and family, and continue developing her musical talents before heading to university.

“I’d love to live in the city at some point and learn more about the industry,” she said.

The successful event not only raised vital funds for charity but also provided a fitting tribute to Bayley and a memorable finale to Ashton’s time at Coleg Llandrillo.

The warning has been issued by Conwy's Harbour Master Matthew Forbes following the grounding of the vessel Vanguard II.

In a notice circulated through the North Wales Cruising Club, Mr Forbes said: “All mariners are advised that the vessel Vanguard II is presently lying on the shore at the Great Orme, latitude 53° 19.9’ north, longitude 3° 52.5’ west.

“As of 0930 this morning, it was still afloat with one engine running. The vessel represents a potential navigational hazard should it float free and mariners are advised to keep a good look-out when navigating in Conwy Bay.”

The incident occurred off the limestone headland of the Great Orme, a well-known landmark at the entrance to Llandudno Bay. The area is popular with leisure sailors, fishing vessels, paddle sports enthusiasts and sightseeing boats, particularly during the summer months.

Maritime users are being advised to remain vigilant and monitor navigation updates while passing through the area.

The exact circumstances surrounding how the vessel came to be stranded have not been confirmed.

The Great Orme coastline is known for its rocky shoreline and strong tidal conditions in places, with mariners regularly reminded to exercise caution when navigating close to shore. Conwy Bay also experiences significant tidal movements which can quickly alter conditions around grounded vessels.

At the time of the latest update, the vessel remained on the shoreline and authorities were continuing to monitor the situation.

Any further navigation warnings or updates are expected to be issued through the Harbour Master and maritime safety networks serving the North Wales coast.

Mredul Ontor, of Deiniol Road, Bangor, appeared before Llandudno Magistrates’ Court on June 1.

He has been charged with eight offences, including threats to kill, assault by beating, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour, and assaulting a child causing unnecessary suffering or injury.

The charges relate to an incident reported in Bangor on May 28.

Ontor was remanded in custody and is due to appear before Caernarfon Crown Court on July 3.