RGC confirmed Callard has committed to the club for another year following a season which saw the North Wales side finish fifth in the league and reach the SRC Plate Final.

RGC General Manager Alun Pritchard praised the impact Callard has made since arriving at Parc Eirias.

He said: “In his first season as RGC Head Coach, Jon has done an outstanding job. He has brought the squad together, created a real sense of unity, and implemented an exciting style of rugby where everyone is playing for each other and for the badge.

“The second half of the season in particular was exceptional, with a fantastic run to the Plate Final and a strong fifth-place finish in the league.

“With continued support, I’m confident Jon can keep developing this team and achieve even greater success. I’m really excited to see what next season brings.”

Callard said he was “absolutely delighted” to extend his stay with the North Wales club and praised both the players and supporters for helping make his decision an easy one.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed the last year and the product we are developing to produce players for the future,” he said.

“To finish fifth in the league and reach the final of the Plate competition was a massive testament to the hard work and commitment shown by everyone involved throughout the season.

“The players have been an absolute joy to work with, and the rugby they have produced has been both rewarding and exciting to watch develop over the course of the year.”

Callard also revealed the club is now focusing heavily on recruitment and retention, with plans aimed at keeping talented young players in North Wales by combining rugby opportunities with local employment and long-term career prospects.

The 60-year-old brings a wealth of elite-level experience to the role. As a player, Callard enjoyed a distinguished career with Bath Rugby during one of the club’s most successful eras, making more than 200 appearances and scoring more than 2,000 points. He won five England caps between 1993 and 1995 and was part of the England squad at the 1995 Rugby World Cup.  

Widely regarded as one of the most reliable goal-kickers of his generation, Callard famously scored all 19 points in Bath’s historic 1998 Heineken Cup final victory over Brive — the first time an English club had won Europe’s top competition.  

Before joining Bath in 1989, he played for Newport RFC and also combined rugby with teaching during the amateur era, working as a PE teacher at Downside School in Somerset.  

Since retiring, Callard has built an extensive coaching career, including spells with Bath, Leeds Tykes and the Rugby Football Union, where he worked with England Under-21s, England Saxons and as a specialist kicking coach.  

RGC will now look to build on the momentum generated during Callard’s first season as preparations continue for the new SRC campaign, with the club promising further announcements on recruitment and pre-season fixtures in the coming months.

Latest data released today shows there are 666,700 patient pathways waiting to start NHS treatment, a fall of 21,300 compared with February. The number of people waiting more than two years has also dropped sharply, down by 1,928 to just under 2,600 pathways. The average waiting time for treatment currently stands at just over 15 weeks.

The new administration has made reducing waiting times one of its central priorities, saying it intends to “pick up the pace” in order to improve access to care across the country.

Health and Care Minister Mabon ap Gwynfor said too many patients were still waiting too long for treatment and insisted urgent action was needed.

“Too many people are waiting too long for NHS treatment. That is the reality and it is an issue we are determined to fix,” he said.

“It is people’s lives we are talking about, and my job is to make sure the Welsh Government works closely with the NHS to ensure people who need treatment get it much quicker.

“It is vital we see improvements in the waiting list, waiting times and access to ambulance and emergency department services, and I want to recognise the dedication of NHS Wales staff who are working to drive the progress we all need to see.”

As part of his first official engagements since taking office, the Minister will visit Neath Port Talbot Hospital’s surgical unit today, where he will meet frontline staff and discuss current pressures facing services run by NHS Wales.

The Welsh Government has also confirmed a series of new measures aimed at accelerating improvement. Within its first 100 days in office, it will commission an independent review into NHS performance, focusing on how waiting lists are affecting population health outcomes.

Alongside this, a new expert task group will be established to design plans for up to 10 elective care hubs across Wales, with a full delivery plan expected by the end of 2026.

The Minister added that the government intends to be transparent about progress, saying improvements would be closely monitored and judged on outcomes.

“I came into this role knowing what people’s experiences have been when it comes to waiting for NHS treatment,” he said.

“Today’s figures are a starting point. We will be honest with the people of Wales about the progress we make, and we will rightly be judged on results. We intend to meet the scale of the challenge ahead.”

The Welsh Government says the combination of system review, expanded capacity and targeted investment will form the backbone of its plan to bring waiting times down over the coming years.

Based at the hospital, the one-year programme will begin in September and is designed to bridge the gap between education and the workplace by giving students real-life experience in a busy NHS setting.

The programme will initially offer places for six interns, with applications open to those holding an Educational Health Care Plan (EHCP) or an Individual Development Plan (IDP).

Delivered through Coleg Cambria's Independent Living Skills (ILS) department, the supported internship will see participants rotate through a variety of roles across the hospital, building practical skills, confidence and independence while receiving tailored support from employability mentors and job coaches.

The initiative forms part of a wider effort to create more inclusive pathways into work across North Wales, combining the strengths of education, healthcare and specialist supported employment partners. By embedding learners directly into the workplace, the partnership aims to equip them with the experience and skills employers are looking for.

Jo Green, Curriculum Director for ILS at Coleg Cambria Northop, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for our Interns to gain real, hands-on experience working within a hospital environment.

“Through our supported internship programme, interns can build confidence, develop essential employability skills, and work towards greater independence.

“This partnership provides a meaningful pathway into employment, allowing learners to experience workplace expectations while being fully supported to achieve their potential.”

The new programme builds on more than a decade of evidence from existing DFN Project SEARCH sites, which have consistently shown that supported internships significantly improve employment outcomes for young people with learning disabilities.

Tracey Amos, Operation Lead for Widening Access and Supported Internships at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, added: “In collaboration with our partners, we are delighted to launch the new DFN Project SEARCH programme at Ysbyty Wrexham Maelor in September.

“Over the past decade, evidence from our existing sites has consistently demonstrated the programme's positive impact, delivering meaningful benefits for both interns and staff.”

The initiative is expected to play a key role in opening up career opportunities while supporting local workforce needs, not only transforming the lives of participants but also encouraging more inclusive recruitment practices across the region.

For more information and to apply, visit Course Detail < Coleg Cambria / www.cambria.ac.uk.

The bronze sculpture, created by Llandudno sculptor Nick Elphick, was installed in the town earlier this spring following a major £120,000 fundraising campaign backed by Jones’ family and supporters.

The statue depicts Jones as the nude organist – one of his memorable recurring characters from Monty Python’s Flying Circus – and was intended as a lasting tribute to one of North Wales’ most famous creative figures.

However, the art piece has now suffered what Elphick described as “slight vandalism”, with two decorative bronze door knockers removed from the sculpture.

The missing pieces were included as a tribute to the cult fantasy film Labyrinth, which Jones co-wrote alongside fellow Monty Python member Terry Gilliam.

Speaking in a video posted online after visiting the site yesterday, Elphick said he was left “in shock” by the damage.

He added: “But just to let everyone know, there are CCTV cameras completely on it. So whoever’s done it, will be seen.”

Fortunately, the damaged pieces were recovered by passers-by and safely stored, raising hopes the statue can be fully repaired.

Jones’ daughter, Sally, is understood to have been “very upset” after learning about the vandalism.

The tribute was unveiled to honour the remarkable career of Jones, who was born in Colwyn Bay before going on to become one of Britain’s most celebrated comedy writers, actors and directors.

Best known for his work with Monty Python, Jones helped redefine British comedy through iconic productions including Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Life of Brian and The Meaning of Life.

Beyond comedy, he was also an acclaimed historian, children’s author and documentary presenter.

Jones died in 2020 at the age of 77 after living with a rare form of dementia known as primary progressive aphasia.

The Colwyn Bay statue was seen as a fitting homecoming tribute for a man whose influence on British comedy and popular culture stretched far beyond North Wales.

As thousands of tourists head to North Wales during the busy holiday season, officers from the Preventative Policing Team are delivering specialist training to holiday park staff to help them recognise warning signs of domestic violence, drink spiking and exploitation.

The initiative aims to ensure staff working in bars, entertainment venues and security teams feel confident in spotting suspicious behaviour and reporting concerns before incidents escalate.

Licensing Officer Liz Williams said the training has already been delivered at a holiday park in Pwllheli, where visitor numbers soar during the summer months.

She said: “Bar staff and security were trained to recognise signs of domestic violence, and symptoms of drug use, types of drugs commonly used in the night time economy and spiking.

“We also discussed what to do if they suspect child sexual exploitation or county lines offences are happening on site.

“This preventative approach aims to empower hospitality staff to spot when something isn’t right and inform us quickly so that we can deal with it before it escalates.”

North Wales Police says the region’s popularity as a tourist destination means local populations can increase dramatically during peak holiday periods, placing added demand on emergency services.

Officers believe hospitality workers are often best placed to identify troubling behaviour due to the number of people they interact with every week.

The force is now encouraging more holiday parks to take part in the scheme ahead of the summer season.

Anybody who suspects drug use, exploitation or violence against women and girls is urged to report it via the North Wales Police website or by calling 101. Anyone witnessing a crime in progress should call 999 immediately.

Rhun ap Iorwerth and Sioned Williams visited Cwm Golau Integrated Children’s Centre in Pentrebach, Merthyr Tydfil, earlier today to highlight the plans during their first official visit together as leaders of the Welsh Government.

Under the proposals, the Welsh Government aims to phase in 20 hours of funded childcare per week, for 48 weeks of the year, for all children aged between nine months and four years old during the current Senedd term.

The plans will also include an expansion of Welsh-language childcare provision, with ministers saying the move will help give every child the opportunity to learn and enjoy the Welsh language from an early age.

Speaking during the visit, the First Minister said rising childcare costs were placing increasing pressure on families across Wales.

He said: “Childcare costs in Wales are among the highest in the UK. We want to put money back into families’ pockets and support parents back into work.

“Our ambitious and transformational childcare offer will be the most generous in the history of devolution, and the most generous in the UK, helping boost household incomes, lift families out of poverty and give children the best start in life.”

The Deputy First Minister said many parents were struggling with the financial burden of childcare, with some effectively working simply to cover the cost.

She said: “Thousands of parents in Wales are working solely to cover the cost of childcare, and many cannot afford it at all. This needs to change.

“Access to affordable childcare unlocks opportunities and gives parents, especially mothers, the freedom to return to work, education or training.

“And most importantly, our expanded offer of high-quality childcare will give every child the head-start they need to thrive.”

The Welsh Government says the expanded childcare programme is designed not only to ease financial pressure on households, but also to tackle child poverty, support economic growth and improve long-term outcomes for children across Wales.

The findings, published by Public Health Wales, show sharp rises in emotional difficulties such as anxiety, alongside increasing cases of eating disorders and self-harming behaviours across all genders.

The report — Health Needs Assessment: Mental Health of Babies, Children and Young People in Wales — paints a deeply concerning picture of rising need across all age groups, from early childhood through to young adulthood.

It estimates that around 1 in 6 children aged 8 to 10, 1 in 5 aged 11 to 16, and 1 in 4 aged 17 to 24 are living with a diagnosable mental health condition.

Particularly concerning, the data suggests that 1 in 4 girls and around 1 in 2 trans or gender-questioning secondary school pupils are experiencing low mental wellbeing, highlighting widening inequalities in mental health outcomes.

The report also points to a range of contributing factors, including child poverty, social inequality, academic pressure, parental mental health challenges and the growing influence of digital technology. It warns that these pressures are increasingly taking hold at younger ages and becoming more entrenched by adolescence.

At the same time, it stresses that protective factors — including strong early relationships, community support, physical activity and access to creativity and play — can make a significant difference in helping children build resilience.

A particular concern raised is the importance of early intervention in the first 1,000 days of life. The report estimates that around 25–30% of parent-infant relationships would benefit from additional support during this period, yet many families do not receive help early enough.

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health problems were estimated to cost the Welsh economy around £4.8 billion each year, with costs now believed to be higher due to increased demand and complexity of need.

Emily van de Venter, Lead Consultant in Mental Wellbeing at Public Health Wales, said too many young people were struggling with distress and low wellbeing.

She said: “There are too many children and young people in Wales who are experiencing distress, low mental wellbeing and mental health conditions. These young people have faced huge challenges including the pandemic, financial insecurity and challenging digital environments.

“Our young people are our future, and they need support as they go through these challenges and it’s important that we listen to their concerns and support them.

“Mental wellbeing needs to be placed at the heart of social, economic and environmental policy and that starts from the very early years of life.”

Mental health charities also warned of mounting pressure on services.

Simon Jones, Head of Policy and Campaigns at Mind Cymru, said demand for support was outpacing capacity, but highlighted early intervention programmes showing positive results.

Meanwhile, Dr Jen Daffin of Platfform said wider issues such as poverty, trauma and inequality must be addressed alongside mental health services.

She said: “We need to recognise the impact of trauma, inequality and life experiences on mental health. It’s hard for parents to be at their best for their children when they’re worried about paying bills or keeping a roof over their heads.

“This is how we can turn the tide on the rising levels of mental ill health and protect future generations here in Wales.”

Support services remain available across Wales for anyone struggling, including NHS 111 (press 2) for urgent mental health support and the CALL Mental Health Helpline on 0800 132 737 or text “help” to 81066.

Public Health Wales says urgent action is needed across health, education and wider public services to address what it describes as a deepening and complex crisis affecting the country’s youngest generations.

A total of 79 pairs of free tickets will be up for grabs on Saturday, May 23, as organisers of the 2026 season at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod launch one of North Wales’ most eagerly anticipated summer traditions.

The annual treasure hunt celebrates 79 years of the world-famous festival, with 79 golden envelopes hidden across the iconic Llangollen Pavilion site between 10am and 2pm.

Each envelope contains a unique code redeemable for tickets to some of this summer’s biggest concerts and festival events.

But this year’s hunt comes with an unusual twist after sightings of a mysterious Yeti roaming around the Pavilion grounds ahead of the big day.

Festival organisers say the furry figure may look familiar to fans of Super Furry Animals, who are set to headline the Pavilion on July 2 with a landmark performance of their acclaimed Welsh-language album “Mwng” in full for the very first time.

Last summer more than 50,000 visitors flocked to Llangollen for weeks of live music and cultural celebrations — and organisers say 2026 is shaping up to be even bigger.

This year’s blockbuster line-up includes Rick Astley, Pete Tong, David Gray, Billy Ocean, Bowling for Soup, Frank Turner, Deacon Blue and Tom Grennan.

The Eisteddfod programme will also feature performances from Emeli Sandé and Michael Ball alongside international competitions, orchestral collaborations and the prestigious Choir of the World contest.

Artistic Director Dave Danford said the treasure hunt had quickly become a much-loved part of the festival calendar.

He said: “We’re now in our third year of the treasure hunt, and it’s become a real Llangollen tradition. People absolutely love it; the excitement, the friendly competition, the thrill of discovering a golden ticket. It sets the tone for the whole summer, so we couldn’t resist bringing it back.

“It’s such a brilliant way to kick off the season, and it gives fans the chance to get their hands on tickets to some of our biggest shows. With this year’s incredible lineup and the magic the Eisteddfod brings, we’re gearing up for an unforgettable summer. Happy hunting!”

Lucky ticket finders will need to take their envelope and code to the Pavilion’s main entrance before 2pm on Saturday to claim their prize, with a limit of one pair of tickets per person.

Founded in 1947, the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod remains one of the world’s most celebrated festivals of music, dance and international friendship, attracting thousands of performers and visitors from across the globe each year.

More information is available at Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod.

Running from Monday, June 1 to Sunday, June 7, the national campaign shines a spotlight on the dedication, passion and skills of millions of volunteers who support charities, community groups and organisations every year.

As part of the celebrations, Cartrefi Conwy and Creating Enterprise will host a coffee morning and open day to recognise past and present volunteers while also promoting current volunteering opportunities available to tenants.

The organisation has also nominated one of its volunteers for recognition at a special event hosted by the Conwy Voluntary Services Council (CVSC) later this year.

Volunteer coordinator Suzanne Pearce said Volunteers’ Week was an important opportunity to celebrate the impact volunteers have across communities.

She said: “Volunteers’ Week is a chance to celebrate and recognise the fantastic contribution our volunteers make.”

One volunteer shared how volunteering had helped rebuild their confidence after time away from work and recovering from surgery.

They said: “I currently do volunteer work in administration. I have not worked for a few years and additionally had some surgery last year. I lacked confidence and was not sure what type of work I would be able to do.

“By volunteering my confidence is building each week. I was incredibly nervous to start off with, but I feel excited to come to work.

“I am only working two half days a week which helps me get back into the working environment instead of being put in the deep end and not liking it. I would recommend it to anyone to just give it a go.

“I have only been here for a brief time, but I have met so many nice people who are happy to help me. I can honestly say I look forward to coming to work to see what new things I can learn.”

Volunteers’ Week has been celebrated annually since 1984 and recognises the vital role volunteers play in strengthening communities and supporting people across the UK.

Cartrefi Conwy tenants interested in volunteering opportunities can contact Suzanne Pearce by email at suzanne.pearce@creatingenterprise.org.uk or by phone and WhatsApp on 07799 519567.

Traffic Wales confirmed the closure was introduced as a safety precaution while engineers assess the structure.

In a statement, Traffic Wales said: “Warning. Due to an overweight vehicle crossing the bridge the road must be closed to carry out an inspection of the bridge. We will reopen the bridge as soon as it is safe to do so.”

A further update added: “Apologies for the inconvenience but our priority is your safety. We wish to remind you that only vehicles under 7.5t are allowed to use Menai Bridge.”

The bridge was re-opened shortly after 11am.

The latest closure is likely to spark anger and exasperation among residents, commuters and businesses on both sides of the Menai Strait, many of whom say the disruption has become an all-too-familiar part of daily life.

For years, local traders and tourism operators have warned that repeated restrictions, emergency closures and ongoing maintenance issues affecting both the Menai Suspension Bridge and the nearby Britannia Bridge have had a damaging impact on the economy of Ynys Môn and Gwynedd.

Business owners have frequently spoken of cancelled bookings, delivery delays and staff struggling to get to work whenever one of the crossings is disrupted. Residents have also repeatedly raised concerns about emergency access, long diversion routes and severe congestion, particularly during peak holiday periods.

The issue first intensified in late 2022 when the Menai Suspension Bridge was closed for several months over serious structural concerns, causing traffic chaos across the region and fuelling calls for long-term solutions rather than short-term repairs.

Since then, every fresh closure or traffic incident has reignited debate over whether North Wales can continue relying on just two ageing crossings linking Ynys Môn to the mainland.

Many local campaigners and residents now argue that the latest incident underlines the growing need for a more resilient third crossing across the Menai Strait — something that has increasingly become a political talking point in Wales.

The Welsh Conservatives have repeatedly renewed calls for a third Menai crossing, arguing the current situation is harming the economy and tourism sector on Ynys Môn. Earlier this year, the party said it would commit to delivering a new crossing if elected, describing it as essential for strengthening connectivity in North Wales.

During the recent Senedd election campaign, transport infrastructure and economic resilience featured heavily in political debate across Wales, although there remains no agreed timetable or funding commitment for a third crossing from the current Welsh Government.

The issue has gained further prominence following the historic election victory of Rhun ap Iorwerth and Plaid Cymru earlier this month, ending more than a century of Labour dominance in Wales.

For many residents this morning, however, the politics matters less than the practical reality of once again facing uncertainty, delays and disruption whenever problems occur on one of the region’s crucial transport lifelines.

The announcement comes after a remarkable season for the Seasiders, with Hadaway guiding Llandudno to the JD Cymru North title and securing promotion back to the top flight of Welsh football following several turbulent years at the Go Goodwins Stadium.

Hadaway’s new contract is being seen as a major statement of intent by the club as it prepares for life in the newly structured Cymru Premier and looks to rebuild its long-term future at the highest level of the domestic game.

Club chairman Dave Guinn praised the manager’s impact since taking charge, saying the decision to extend his stay was “a no-brainer”.

He said: “Giving Jordan a new contract was a no-brainer. It was the only natural thing to do after the work he has put in and the memories he has created for everyone at the club alongside his amazing staff and group of players.

“There has been much media attention around him and our story, so I am glad that this contract shows everyone that we are all onboard and pushing in the same direction. Jordan is, and will remain, black and white.”

Hadaway, who was named JD Cymru North Manager of the Season, said he was delighted to continue his journey with the club and believes the foundations are in place to establish Llandudno as a permanent fixture in the Cymru Premier once again.

He said: “I’m delighted to sign a two-year contract with the club. It was a no-brainer for me, as the club means so much to me, my family and partner. I am ready to try and make Llandudno FC a mainstay in the Welsh Premier League.

“Being around the people involved in this club from the directors and volunteers, to the fans that support us every game is an honour.

“The squad that we have built is also something special. We have a great group of lads and working with them week in, week out is so enjoyable. To also share the dugout with my amazing staff week in, week out is an honour.

“We achieved our aim this season, which was promotion. Now it’s about making our club an established club again in the Welsh Premier League. I’m looking forward to the challenge, as it’s going to be a tough season ahead for us. Keep The Faith!”

The college’s Llangefni campus will become the main training hub for the first intake of apprentices working on the landmark scheme, which is expected to play a significant role in the future of the nuclear industry in North Wales.

Rolls-Royce SMR is now recruiting its first cohort of Anglesey-based apprentices, with 10 places available in safety and regulatory affairs. Successful applicants will work towards a Level 3 Engineering qualification while gaining hands-on industry experience and specialist in-house training.

The programme is designed to help develop the next generation of skilled workers needed to support the delivery of Small Modular Reactor technology, which uses a modular “factory-built” approach aimed at transforming how nuclear projects are constructed and operated.

Dr Siôn Peters-Flynn, Principal of Coleg Menai, said the partnership marked the beginning of a major economic opportunity for the region.

“This is a really exciting time as economic growth and the job opportunities associated with large infrastructure projects such as Wylfa begin to take shape,” he said.

“At Coleg Menai, we are working closely with Rolls-Royce SMR and Great British Energy – Nuclear to train the people of North Wales to be part of the next generation nuclear workforce.”

He added: “With our world-class facilities and expert staff, we are perfectly positioned to ensure the future workforce at Wylfa is trained to the highest standards. This is hopefully the beginning of a new era of economic growth and high-skilled employment for our communities.”

The apprenticeships will focus on safety and regulatory affairs, giving recruits experience in how nuclear projects are kept safe, compliant and legally regulated. Apprentices will support industry experts with technical documents, safety assessments and engineering processes while developing specialist skills for the future.

Applicants must have at least five GCSEs graded A* to C, including Maths, English and a Science or Engineering subject, and must live within commuting distance of the Llangefni campus.

The roles offer a starting salary of £20,706 alongside a pension scheme, healthcare cover and annual leave benefits.

The announcement is likely to be seen as another significant step forward for the long-discussed Wylfa development, with hopes the project could create hundreds of skilled jobs and provide a major economic boost for Anglesey and the wider North Wales region.

It runs from Monday, May 18 to Sunday, May 24, 2026, aligning with Knife Crime Awareness Week.

Although knife crime remains comparatively low across North Wales, the force says it is committed to preventing offences and keeping communities safe through enforcement, education and partnership working.

Operation Sceptre is a bi-annual national initiative which supports year-round work carried out by officers, staff and volunteers to reduce knife crime and raise awareness of the dangers associated with carrying weapons.

Throughout the campaign, officers will carry out targeted operations, educational visits and engagement sessions with young people, while also working alongside retailers to help ensure knives are sold responsibly.

Community Safety Sergeant Claire Parry said every weapon removed from the streets could help prevent future harm.

She said: “Every knife taken off the streets makes our communities safer. Carrying a knife doesn’t protect you - it puts you at greater risk of harm.

“We want people to think twice, make the right choice, and use this week as an opportunity to hand in any unwanted knives or weapons. Together, with our partners and communities, we can stop knives from ruining lives.”

As part of the campaign, amnesty bins have been made available at police stations and recycling centres across the region, allowing members of the public to safely dispose of knives and other weapons anonymously.

Police station amnesty bins are located at stations in Wrexham, Mold, Deeside, Rhyl, Llandudno, Colwyn Bay, Bangor, Llangefni and Holyhead.

Additional bins are also available at recycling centres in Mochdre, Abergele, Denbigh, Ruthin, Rhyl, Bangor, Caernarfon, Harlech, Dolgellau, Gwalchmai, Penhesgyn, Wrexham, Plas Madog and Greenfield.

North Wales Police says the campaign forms part of its wider commitment to ensuring the region remains one of the safest places in the UK to live, work and visit.

The new initiative, announced in Parliament by Dan Jarvis on Monday, will see the creation of a £30 million High Street Organised Crime Unit led by the National Crime Agency to target criminal gangs using shops as fronts for illegal activity.

The National Crime Agency estimates that at least £1 billion is laundered through UK high street businesses every year, with concerns growing over illegal working, illicit goods and organised criminal activity operating behind legitimate shopfronts.

The programme will bring together police, trading standards, HMRC and partner agencies to carry out raids, closures and cash seizures linked to organised crime. Measures announced include more National Crime Agency officers dedicated to tackling high street money laundering, annual multi-agency crackdowns, stronger local authority trading standards enforcement, and a targeted HMRC campaign against tax evasion and illicit finance.

Mr Dunbobbin, who is also Joint Lead on Business and Retail Crime at the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, said the plans reflect concerns being raised by businesses and communities across North Wales.

During recent visits to towns including Rhyl, Colwyn Bay, Llangollen and Llandudno, the Commissioner said he had discussed issues such as shoplifting, anti-social behaviour and illegal enterprises with local traders and community representatives.

Mr Dunbobbin said high streets remained “the heart of our communities” and praised the vast majority of North Wales businesses for supporting local jobs and economic growth.

However, he said residents, councillors and business owners regularly raised concerns about crime and businesses operating outside the law.

He added: “The Government’s new High Street Organised Crime Unit is a clear recognition that this is a serious national issue, and it is right that enforcement agencies are coming together to target those involved in organised criminality.

“My visits to towns such as Rhyl, Colwyn Bay, Llangollen and Llandudno have reinforced just how important it is that we maintain a visible policing presence and strong local partnerships alongside any national response.

“As part of my Plan to tackle crime in North Wales, I will continue to work with local Police and partners to ensure our town centres remain safe, welcoming and thriving places for residents, visitors and businesses alike.”

The famous yellow bear will sail into Conwy during the first-ever “Big Bear Voyage” around Britain ahead of BBC Children in Need 2026, which takes place on Friday, 20 November. The 2,200-nautical-mile journey will visit around 35 coastal towns across the UK, bringing fundraising events and mental health awareness activities to communities including North Wales.

The campaign has been launched to mark Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 and comes alongside new research revealing the growing pressures facing children and young people across the UK.

Figures released by BBC Children in Need show almost a quarter of children aged 10 to 14 regularly keep their worries to themselves, while more than a third say anxiety and worries have made life less enjoyable or left them too embarrassed or afraid to speak out.

The charity says one in five children feel they have not been shown how to talk about mental health in a safe or supportive way, while nearly one in five say they often hide their true emotions by pretending to be happy when they feel sad or anxious.

In a landmark moment for the charity, Pudsey Bear is speaking for the first time in more than 40 years as part of the campaign.

A new short film, “Pudsey Finds His Voice”, premiered on BBC television this week and carries the message that every child deserves an adult who will listen.

BBC Children in Need says children who regularly have someone trusted to talk to are around nine times more likely to say they feel happy than those who do not.

The charity has also announced £1.24 million in additional funding for mental health support projects across the UK. This includes £745,000 for digital counselling charity Shout and £500,000 for The Children’s Society to continue its “Space to Grow” programme supporting young people in schools and communities.

Claire Hoyle, Interim Chief Executive of BBC Children in Need, said too many children were “carrying their worries alone”.

She said: “When a child feels heard, it can change everything – helping them cope earlier and stopping problems from becoming more serious.

“Pudsey has stood alongside children for over 40 years, and now, for the first time ever, he’s finding his voice.”

The visit to Conwy is expected to form part of a wider programme of fundraising and community events across North Wales later this year, with local schools, groups and supporters being encouraged to take part through sponsored challenges, bake sales and awareness activities.