Author name: G Evans

Coleg Gwent student soars towards aviation career during National Apprenticeship Week A Coleg Gwent student is setting her sights on becoming a commercial pilot after completing a year of studying an Extended Level 3 Diploma in Aerospace Engineering at the college’s HiVE (High Value Engineering) Centre. After completing the course, she plans to apply to flight school with a leading commercial airline. If successful, she will become one of the UK’s youngest female commercial pilots, highlighting the opportunities available through technical and vocational education during National Apprenticeship Week (10–16 February). The HiVE Centre, which opened in November last year, is designed to support the next generation of engineers. The facility offers cutting-edge STEM education and skills development, including robotics, advanced manufacturing technologies and immersive digital tools, giving learners hands-on, practical experience alongside their studies. Her passion for aviation began at a young age after attending the Royal International Air Tattoo with her father, an electrical engineer and aircraft enthusiast. That early spark led to years of plane spotting, learning about electronics, and eventually taking her first flying lesson at the age of 14. From that moment, she knew she wanted to pursue a career as a pilot. She said: “My dad has always encouraged me to follow my dreams. He supported me by funding my flying lessons and spending time helping me understand electrical circuits and pathways. That’s helped me massively on my course and even means I can help fix electrical appliances at home. I’ve even helped to rewire our kitchen during a refit.” After leaving Abingdon School at the age of 16, she enrolled at Coleg Gwent to study Aerospace Engineering. Since starting the course, she has demonstrated outstanding commitment, not only to her own learning but also by inspiring others to consider careers in STEM. She is an enthusiastic STEM ambassador for the college and plays an active role in its outreach programme, taking part in school visits and taster days to encourage younger women to consider careers in engineering. Her achievements extend beyond the classroom. Last year, she was selected by British Airways as one of just 20 students nationwide to take part in its work experience programme at Cardiff Airport, after competing against more than 1,000 applicants. Alexis Davies-Salter, Lecturer in Motorsports, Aerospace and Composites Engineering at Coleg Gwent’s HiVE Centre, said: “She is an exemplary student. Despite being the only female learner on her course, she is confident, driven and highly capable. Her flying experience has given her transferable skills that really enhance her learning. “The HiVE provides an exceptional environment for young people to develop practical, industry-relevant skills. Her understanding of aerospace engineering is already impressive, and we’re excited to see her continue her journey towards becoming a pilot.” While an engineering qualification is not essential to become a pilot, it provides a strong foundation for flight training. When she completes her Extended Level 3 Diploma in Aerospace Engineering this summer, she plans to use the qualification as a springboard to apply for a flight training programme with a major airline, with the aim of qualifying as a commercial pilot within the next two to three years. Coleg Gwent is a further education college with five campuses across Blaenau Gwent, Newport, Crosskeys, Torfaen Learning Zone and Usk. The college offers a wide range of vocational courses, apprenticeships, A Levels and higher education opportunities, equipping young people with the technical skills and experience needed for modern careers. For more information about Coleg Gwent and its courses, visit:https://www.coleggwent.ac.uk Local News Coleg Gwent student soars towards aviation career during National Apprenticeship Week February 20, 2026 Local News Lower age limit for weights access across Caerphilly leisure centres February 20, 2026 Local News The Rhondda Lip February 2026 February 9, 2026

Lower age limit for weights access across Caerphilly leisure centres Caerphilly County Borough Council has announced that young people aged 14 and over can now use weights and resistance equipment in fitness suites across its leisure centres. The change supports the Council’s Sport and Active Recreation Strategy, aimed at reducing barriers to participation and encouraging healthy habits from an earlier age. Access is available through the Junior Active Plus membership for 11 to 16-year-olds, priced at £12.05 per month. Members can use fitness suites (weights for ages 14+), swimming pools, exercise classes and racquet courts. Children aged 11 to 13 can access cardiovascular equipment and guided bodyweight exercises, with all junior sessions supervised by qualified staff. Lowering the age for fitness suite access gives young people more opportunities to be active in ways that interest them. It supports the development of confidence and healthy habits at an earlier age, while ensuring access remains safe, supported and welcoming across leisure centres. The membership can be used across all Caerphilly leisure centres. Councillor Chris Morgan, Cabinet Member for Leisure, said: “Lowering the age for fitness suite access gives young people more opportunities to be active in ways that interest them. It supports the development of confidence and healthy habits at an earlier age, while ensuring access remains safe, supported and welcoming across our leisure centres.” More information is available at:https://www.caerphillyleisurelifestyle.co.uk/en/join-at-home/ Read the full story and more at:https://www.caerphilly.gov.uk Local News Lower age limit for weights access across Caerphilly leisure centres February 20, 2026 Local News The Rhondda Lip February 2026 February 9, 2026 Local News New Year, New Reads January 14, 2026

How One Hamster, One Daughter and Five Years on TikTok Changed Everything If someone had told me years ago that a tiny hamster would help rebuild my mental health, strengthen my bond with my daughter, lead to a children’s book, introduce me to the woman I’d marry, and connect me with people across the world, I would have smiled politely and carried on with life. But that’s exactly what happened. And it all started in Cardiff, with a little ball of fur called Popcorn. Before Popcorn, life felt unstable and painfully quiet. An important relationship in my life ended abruptly, no conversation, no closure, no warning. One day there was a future, and the next there was just a house learning how to echo. I found myself rebuilding without a map. My mental health slipped into survival mode. Confidence faded. Direction blurred. More than anything, I wanted to rebuild something meaningful for my daughter Lily, not just routine, but warmth, imagination, and a sense that life could still be gentle after disappointment. It was actually Lily’s mum who suggested getting her a hamster. At first, I wasn’t sure. But Lily surprised me. She researched everything, care, habitats, enrichment, behaviour, and showed a level of responsibility that immediately set her apart. What began as a small idea quietly became a turning point for us both. That’s how Popcorn entered our home. From the beginning, he wasn’t ordinary. He rushed to the front of his enclosure when we walked in. He trusted Lily completely. He’d sit calmly in her hands, tiny paws resting, watching the world as if he belonged there, because he did. He wasn’t decoration. He was family. And Lily? She rose with him. She became “Popcorn’s manager” without being asked. She planned his adventures, chose music, answered questions from people across the world and slowly grew into a confident, creative little leader. What audiences saw online wasn’t just a cute animal, it was a child learning responsibility, communication, and belief in herself. While some people stay small behind opinions, Lily learned early how to stand tall in action. Watching her grow alongside Popcorn has been one of the proudest journeys of my life as a dad. One evening, I filmed Lily chatting to Popcorn and posted it on TikTok. No strategy. No performance. Just a real moment. In another clip soon after, Popcorn randomly waddled up and pushed his tiny paw into my face, completely unplanned, and that little moment exploded overnight too, reminding us that the internet doesn’t fall in love with perfection, it falls in love with honesty. By morning, everything had changed. The video travelled fast. Notifications flooded in. Thousands turned into millions. People didn’t just watch Popcorn, they felt him. Calm. Warmth. Innocence. A rare kind of comfort in a noisy digital world. Then the messages arrived. “I’m struggling too.” “This helps my anxiety.” “I watch Popcorn before bed.” That’s when I understood, this wasn’t about attention, it was about connection. Over five years on TikTok, @chrisdavies50 quietly grew into a community of just under 150,000 followers and more than 11 million likes. From our living room in Cardiff, Popcorn reached BBC News, BBC Radio, The Dodo, LADbible, The Daily Express, Take a Break, Pets2Collect, Newsweek in the US and Der Spiegel in Germany. Including five radio interviews for BBC, Bro Radio and Cardiff FM, it was all fairly surreal to say the least. A hamster in an enclosure ended up more visible than many people ever dare to be in their own lives. Not everyone applauded it. Some raised eyebrows. Some whispered judgments. A grown man filming a hamster didn’t fit everyone’s idea of ambition. But while a few stayed comfortable in the shadows of opinion, Lily and I were stepping forward, building something real. We weren’t chasing trends, we were telling a story, learning, creating, and connecting with people far beyond our postcode. Sometimes the bravest thing isn’t proving people wrong, it’s living well enough that comparison becomes unnecessary. In time, Popcorn’s world became a book. On a road trip, Lily and I began writing a poem about him just to pass the time. No ambition. No plan. Just imagination. That poem became Popcorn: The Unlikeliest of Friends, published with Candy Jar Books and stocked by Waterstones, WHSmith and Amazon. A hamster. A daughter. A poem in a car. Now in stores beside authors people study. In the summer of 2023, we lost Popcorn. The house went quiet. Lily grieved. I grieved. But the world answered. Thousands of messages arrived, artwork, stories, gratitude. It proved something important, Popcorn hadn’t been small in anyone’s life. His presence travelled further than any cage ever could. And still, his story wasn’t finished. One day, a message arrived from a fellow NHS nurse named Carrie. She said the content was cute, comforting, something she looked forward to after long shifts caring for others. That became conversation. Then laughter. Then something rare, recognition of the same values, the same emotional language, the same way of seeing the world. Carrie is beautiful, intelligent, caring, strong, thoughtful and genuinely funny. But more than that, she is aligned with me mentally and spiritually. We don’t just love in the same direction, we think in the same direction. With her, love feels steady and electric at the same time. She didn’t enter my life, she completely transformed and upgraded it. She showed Lily patience, respect and consistency, and Lily adored her immediately. Love doesn’t need announcing when it’s real, it quietly proves itself. Lily now not only has her mum as a positive influence, but also a loving step-mum in Carrie, someone who brings her own warmth, care, and guidance, something Lily hadn’t truly experienced from my side before, and every day I’m in awe of the love and strength she adds to our family. So, on the 29th of December 2025, I married her. And Lily? Lily ran the day. She became the wedding manager in every sense, organising, calming

The Rhondda Lip Retired journalist David Edwards recalls stories from his reporting and present days. After more than 60 years two Rhondda basketball players have finally been given their international caps Pictured are Paul Barclay and David Addis and the players with their international caps.  After more than 60 years two Rhondda basketball players have finally been given their international caps for playing for their country. Former Treherbert Boys Club player Paul Barclay, aged 81, and 79-year-old former Llwynypia player David Addis are among 13 valley players who have played for their country over the years. The other players recognised are former Treherbert Boys Club players Philip Jones, Brian Merry, Roger Cope and Chris Kivington, along with Ian Reynolds, Jimmy Reynolds, Wayne Jones and Richard Lloyd (Ton and Gelli). Jeff Cowland (Llwynypia), Eric Ricketts (Aberdare) and Jonathan Bunyard, who played for the Just Rentals team. The players celebrated their achievements in an event held at the Ystrad Rhondda Sports Centre, organised by Jeff Cowland. Jeff said: “A basketball veterans’ tournament was held in the National Sports Centre in Cardiff which was attended by former Wales international players. “Also, there was Basketball Wales CEO Gavin Williams who informed everyone of an Annual Awards event taking place in Holland House Hotel in Cardiff in which past and present international players would be honoured. “While there were presented with our international caps to be finally recognised for playing for Wales.” Paul Barclay played his first game for Wales in 1960 in a Four Nations junior tournament in Ruislip. He said: “I played first game for Wales at senior level in 1960 and in 1965 played for Great Britain against an American Select side. “I played for Wales 65 times and I feel honoured to have finally been given a cap but very disappointed that over the years I have had nothing to show for it. “It is a great honour to play for your country, and I have wonderful memories of my basketball years.” Dave Addis recalls playing for the first time for Wales against England in 1964. He said: “I had 33 senior caps and eight junior caps. “I feel ecstatic that I have been finally recognised for playing for my country.” Gavin Williams said: “Basketball Wales is delighted to honour the valley players and plan to repeat it every year with other former and present international players.” Pictured are Paul Barclay and David Addis and the players with their international caps.    Local News The Rhondda Lip February 2026 February 9, 2026 Local News New Year, New Reads January 14, 2026 Local News What’s On January 2026 January 13, 2026

New Year, New Reads Books to Inspire Your Best Start Yet As the festive sparkle fades and January settles in, many of us feel that familiar urge to reset, build better routines and make this year one we look back on with a smile. If you are looking for inspiration between the covers of a good book, we have picked a handful that are practical, uplifting and perfect for a slow cuppa on a crisp winter morning. Atomic Habits by James ClearA modern classic on behaviour change. Clear shows how small, realistic tweaks to our daily routines can lead to big results over time. It is simple, encouraging and full of ideas you can actually stick to. The Comfort Book by Matt HaigSometimes a fresh start is not about strict goals, but a gentler mindset. This collection of short reflections reminds us to slow down, be kind to ourselves and find comfort in the everyday. Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver BurkemanA thoughtful look at how we use our time. Rather than cramming more into life, this book encourages us to focus on what really matters. Wise, funny and refreshingly honest. The Little Book of Lykke by Meik WikingFrom the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, this warm read explores the habits, connections and community spirit that help people feel happier day to day. Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susan JeffersA confidence boosting classic that encourages us to face change head on. Perfect for anyone looking to try something new this year, whether that is a career move, a hobby or a personal goal. Whether you are planning a full lifestyle reset or just want a calmer, more positive start to the year, these books offer plenty of inspiration. Got a favourite we have missed? Let us know: hello@knowmag.co.ukGood reads are always better shared. Local News The Rhondda Lip February 2026 February 9, 2026 Local News New Year, New Reads January 14, 2026 Local News What’s On January 2026 January 13, 2026

Gwen yr Arth Wen: New play tackling climate change will tour south Wales in Spring 2026 A new, touring theatre production will combine puppetry, movement and original music to share the story of an anxious polar bear with young audiences and their families February-March 2026. Gwen yr Arth Wen (Gwen the Polar Bear) is a thought-provoking but light-hearted and age-appropriate exploration of climate change, the importance of home and of confidence. It’s written by award-winning playwright Chris Harris, directed by Elan Isaac and performed by Isabella Colby Browne for audiences aged 6+ and their families. The show is performed in Welsh, but audiences of non-Welsh speakers and Welsh learners alike will easily follow the story too. Polar bear Gwen wakes up on a broken icecap hundreds of miles away from her family. On her perilous journey through the arctic sea, she will have to find her courage, as well as her way home. Gwen yr Arth Wen is produced by Glesni Price-Jones with the support of The Riverfront in Newport, where rehearsals will take place; Welsh-language national theatre Theatr Cymru, who’ve provided technology and dramaturgy support; and Climate Cymru, whose youth climate ambassadors have created a bespoke education pack for schools to accompany the performances. The tour starts at the Riverfront on 14 February and ends at Hengoed Community Centre on 31 March, taking in 10 south Wales venues across both the February half-term and the Easter end-of-term school holidays. Announcing the show, writer Chris Harris said: “Climate change can be a frightening concept for children, who may feel helpless when faced with the headlines. Gwen yr Arth Wen emphasises the positive outcomes of its resolution if we all work together to combat it. It seems like a scary obstacle, but it can be done.” For press enquiries, please contact mscatrinrogers@gmail.com Tour Venues & DatesIn February half-term holidayThe Riverfront, NewportSaturday 14 February 2026 11am & 2pm Pontardawe Arts CentreMonday 16 February 202611am & 2pm YMa PontypriddWednesday 18 February 202611am Builth Wells LibraryThursday 19 February 202612pm & 3pm Blackwood Miners’ InstituteFriday 20 February 20261pm & 3pm Ty Tawe, AbertaweSaturday 21 February 202612pm & 2.30pm Memo Arts Centre, BarryWednesday 25 February 202611am & 1.45pm In Easter end-of-term holiday Caerphilly LibrarySaturday 28 March 202611am & 2pm Chepstow Drill HallSunday 29 March 202611am & 2pm Theatr Soar, Merthyr TydfilMonday 30 March 202612pm & 2pm Hengoed Community CentreTuesday 31 March 202612pm & 3pm   Local News Gwen yr Arth Wen January 13, 2026 Local News The Rhondda Lip January 2026 January 13, 2026 Local News News from The Upper Rhondda Pool League January 11, 2026

Retired journalist David Edwards recalls stories from his reporting days. Stan Stennett and Bonzo I USED to love covering pantomimes during my reporting years…“Oh no you didn’t”“Oh yes I did” I well remember the panto time when I covered the first night of a performance of Cinderella. It was the scene of the Ball when everyone was awaiting the arrival of the Prince. Suddenly one of the cast shouted, “Here comes the Prince.” No sign of the Prince. Another shout: “The Prince is coming.” Still no sign of the Prince. One more shout: “The Prince really is coming”. Finally the Prince appeared on stage. And of course I will always remember the time I interviewed Pencoed-born comedian and TV’s Crossroads cast member Stan Stennett at his Cardiff home. Stan was a regular on the panto stage with his stuffed dog Bonzo. Another memorable panto story I did was about a Pontypridd-based Women’s Institute back in 2013. Here it is… “Members of a WI group decided to stage their own panto version of Cinderella with a difference. The cast included a town crier with a drink problem and a fairy godmother too old to “waft through walls”. The women, who belong to the Pontypridd Women’s Institute, decided to create some stage fun and put on a panto called The Alternative Cinderella. The panto was staged at Pontypridd Museum and received a standing ovation from an audience of more than 50. The audience were treated to the panto antics of a mincey princey, a town crier with a drink problem and a fairy godmother who travels by bus pass. There were two ugly sisters called Twigletta Brighter and Fatsima Dumb. The panto was written, produced and directed by Sue Granelli. Set in the fair town of Pottypridd, the panto featured the Prince’s Ball taking place in the Municipal Hall. The offbeat tale concluded with Prince Charming ending up with both Ugly Sisters. Former WI president Janet Jones said: “It was a chance for members to let their hair down and enjoy some stage fun. The panto went down so well that we may decide on staging another one in the future. You never know, we may get a booking for Broadway… not the one in New York, the one in Ponty.” Pontypridd W.I Another memorable panto story I did was about a Pontypridd-based Women’s Institute back in 2013. Here it is… “Members of a WI group decided to stage their own panto version of Cinderella with a difference. The cast included a town crier with a drink problem and a fairy godmother too old to “waft through walls”. The women, who belong to the Pontypridd Women’s Institute, decided to create some stage fun and put on a panto called The Alternative Cinderella. The panto was staged at Pontypridd Museum and received a standing ovation from an audience of more than 50. The audience were treated to the panto antics of a mincey princey, a town crier with a drink problem and a fairy godmother who travels by bus pass. There were two ugly sisters called Twigletta Brighter and Fatsima Dumb. The panto was written, produced and directed by Sue Granelli. Set in the fair town of Pottypridd, the panto featured the Prince’s Ball taking place in the Municipal Hall. The offbeat tale concluded with Prince Charming ending up with both Ugly Sisters. Former WI president Janet Jones said: “It was a chance for members to let their hair down and enjoy some stage fun. The panto went down so well that we may decide on staging another one in the future. You never know, we may get a booking for Broadway… not the one in New York, the one in Ponty.” Local News The Rhondda Lip February 2026 February 9, 2026 Local News New Year, New Reads January 14, 2026 Local News What’s On January 2026 January 13, 2026

A Rhondda-based Pool League, who are in their 50th season, have right on cue been given a cash injection. By Dave Edwards The Upper Rhondda Pool League started when there were only eight teams, while currently there are 24 teams. League chairman Kevin Moon, who has been a League official for 25 years, said: “The League involves teams playing from the top of the Rhondda to Penygraig and is made up of two divisions comprising of 12 teams in each division.” Kevin said that the League started in stalwart valley pubs like the Tynewydd Hotel, known as The Bricks, and the chap who started it off was named John Pendry. “Over the years there was a lot of interest in the League and it has got bigger and bigger.” Kevin said to celebrate its 50th season a number of special events have been planned and what has made it extra special is that sponsors have come on board, which has been a real cash boost. “We have been fortunate to have secured sponsors over the years but unfortunately due to circumstances some have not been able to continue with their support.” Kevin said that one of the sponsors is Geoff Dyer, who is the owner of the Parc and Dare Sports and Social Club. “Geoff has been a massive help to the League, especially on the trophies side, and we are very indebted to him.” Meanwhile Geoff Dyer was instrumental in getting the Treforest-based Liquid Measures company to offer their support in sponsoring the League. Kevin said: “The support given to us by The Parc and Dare Sports and Social Club and Liquid Measures has given us a much needed financial backing and we will be making every effort to show our appreciation.” Kevin said the standard of pool playing has greatly improved over the last 15 years, with the League producing a few Welsh internationals. “Gareth Rosser and Ceri Hobbs who played for the Lion Hotel in Treorchy, and Jonathan Samuel and Leighton Davis who plays for the Parc and Dare Social and Sports Club.” Kevin said that there are still players in the League who were there 50 years ago. “The oldest player is Clive Collins of the Ystrad-based Scoobys team while another long time player is David Holvey who plays for the Lion Hotel. “Pool is played on Tuesday nights with the same format every season and the competition is always intense with two teams getting promoted and two relegated.” Local News Mission Christmas appeal January 11, 2026 Local News Mission Christmas appeal December 7, 2025 Local News The Rhondda Lip November 2025 December 7, 2025

Can you help vulnerable children in South Wales? Hits Radio and Greatest Hits Radio launches annual Mission Christmas appeal and need your help… The largest Christmas gift appeal in the UK, ‘Mission Christmas’ is back – and they need you!Cash for Kids, the official charity of Hits Radio and Greatest Hits Radio, have todaykickstarted their annual appeal to listeners and locals to buy an extra gift and help thousands ofdisadvantaged children in South Wales. In 2024 Mission Christmas collected £14.8 million in gifts and cash donations, which were used to make sure that 289,596 children and young people had presents to open on Christmas Day.Locally, this meant that 1,865 in South Wales were able to open a gift on the big day. Once again as the cost of living continues to hit families across the UK, the charity is anticipating a huge level of demand for their support. This year across South Walesapplications on behalf of 1,700 children have already been received. Laura Tucker, Charity Manager, Cash for Kids South Wales said: “Every child should feelthe excitement of waking up to presents on Christmas morning and that’s why every yearMission Christmas is so important to us. Our community have always been so incrediblygenerous so, if you can, please just buy one extra gift this year and we’ll make sure it goes to a child who truly deserves it.” Supporters can take their gifts to a number of drop-off points near them, including local B&Mand Wickes stores. Simply head to B&M Store Locator from 17th November and enter yourpostcode to find the drop-off point closest to you. Supporters can also buy a gift online which will be delivered directly to the purchaser’s nearest Mission HQ for no delivery fee. Just head to Cash for Kids South Wales Gift List –cashforkidsgive.co.uk/donate/mission-christmas-2025-gift-list-south-wales to browse the gift list.Alternatively, you can text KIDS to:70905 = £5 donation70910 = £10 donation70920 = £20 donation70930 = £30 donationand the Cash for Kids team will buy a gift on your behalf. Cash for Kids works with thousands of grass-root organisations across the UK who supportdisadvantaged children (0 – 18 years). Throughout the Mission Christmas campaign, these organisations along with social workers, head teachers and the emergency services nominate families in crisis to be supported by the appeal. For further details, including information on how to get involved or make a donation, please visit: cashforkids.org.uk/mission-christmas/ and choose South Wales as your area.For more information please contact:Laura Tucker – Charity Manager, South WalesE: laura.tucker@bauermedia.co.uk Local News The Rhondda Lip November 2025 December 7, 2025 Local News The Rhondda Lip November 2025 December 7, 2025 Local News A Greener Christmas December 7, 2025