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Cwtch Baby Bank marks 10 years of supporting families across South East Wales Cwtch Baby Bank Volunteers 2 Cwtch_1494 moses baskets Cwtch Baby Bank Volunteer A South Wales charity that has quietly supported thousands of families over the past decade is celebrating a major milestone this month. On April 26, Cwtch Baby Bank will mark 10 years of helping vulnerable families across South East Wales, having provided essential baby items to more than 6,500 families since launching in 2016. The service works entirely through referrals from frontline professionals including midwives, health visitors and social workers, ensuring support reaches those who need it most during what can often be the most challenging times. Founded in Taffs Well by retired foster carer Hilary Johnston, the charity began as a small community initiative and has grown into a vital lifeline for families facing increasing financial pressure amid the rising cost of living. What started with just a single room and a handful of donated items has developed into a well-established service supporting families with children from newborn up to two years old. The idea behind the charity was simple but powerful – to make sure no baby in Wales goes without the basics. After recognising there was no similar service locally, Hilary began redistributing her own collection of baby items gathered during her years as a foster carer, laying the foundations for what Cwtch Baby Bank has become today. Speaking about the milestone, founder and trustee chairperson Hilary Johnston said the charity’s journey has been shaped by community support from day one. “Ten years ago, we started with a small room and a big belief that every child deserves a safe, supported start in life,” she said. “A decade later, thanks to the generosity of our community and the dedication of our staff and volunteers, we’ve helped thousands of families facing hardship.” Today, the charity redistributes clean, good-quality pre-loved items including clothing, nappies, prams and cots, helping to ease financial pressure while ensuring babies have everything they need in those crucial early months. As demand continues to grow, the charity says community donations and ongoing support remain as important as ever, with the next chapter focused on reaching even more families across the region. For more information or find out how to donate, you can get in touch directly.Email: cwtchbabybank@gmail.com Website: cwtchbabybank.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/Cwtchbabybank Local News From pyramids to Pontypridd: high-tech survey to uncover secrets of historic bridge April 17, 2026 Local News Titan Wales Comic Con returns with a fresh, family-first feel​ April 17, 2026 Local News From pyramids to Pontypridd: high-tech survey to uncover secrets of historic bridge April 17, 2026

Titan Wales Comic Con returns with a fresh, family-first feel Titan Wales Comic Con is back this summer, and organisers are determined to make 2026 the event that truly delivers for fans of all ages. Taking place at Cardiff Football Stadium, the event promises a full day of entertainment, combining movie and TV props, iconic vehicles, cosplay, and interactive displays under one roof. But this year, there’s a clear focus behind it. Organiser Andrew Macfetters is on a mission to turn things around and create something people genuinely enjoy. “We need people to support us and make this the best it can be,” he said. “When you go to an event, you want to come home happy, with memories to share with friends and family, and hopefully come back again the next year.” After taking feedback from previous events and advice from experienced organisers, Andrew has reshaped Titan Comic Con into more of a festival-style experience, with a stronger emphasis on families, interaction, and variety. More than just a comic con Visitors can expect far more than just stalls and signings. The event is packed with hands-on attractions and recognisable favourites designed to appeal to both younger audiences and long-time fans. “I wanted to make it more friendly and family friendly by having more props and displays, movie and TV cars, and mascots that kids would recognise and go to,” Andrew explained. There will be face painting, cosplay competitions across different age groups, and plenty of opportunities to get involved rather than just spectate. Cosplay remains a huge part of the day, with Andrew noting that “cosplayers make up more than 50% of the audience… you can be who you want to be when in character.” A real mix of nostalgia and spectacle One of the standout elements this year is the range of props, displays, and vehicles being brought together – many of which are rarely seen in Wales. Fans can expect everything from Star Wars, Star Trek, Red Dwarf and Doctor Who displays, through to Jurassic Park scenes, Ghostbusters groups, and even a T-Rex encounter setup recreating the famous jeep moment from the original film. “That is a first in Wales,” Andrew said. “We’ve put time slots in place so no one misses out.” Iconic vehicles are also a major draw, including the legendary Herbie car, the Ninja Turtles van, a rare Flintstones car (one of only a handful in the UK), and even a Ghost Rider bike. Add in Battlestar Galactica Cylons appearing in Wales for the first time, Pokémon characters, and a wide mix of guest appearances, and the scale of the event becomes clear. Guests, gaming and something for everyone Alongside the attractions, the event will feature a range of guest appearances spanning different eras of film and TV, traders selling themed merchandise, and a gaming bus for visitors of all ages. Andrew’s aim is simple: keep people engaged from start to finish. “I want to make sure no one is bored and there’s plenty to do in one day. You can’t please everyone, but I can try and show what can be done.” A community event with a bigger purpose Beyond the entertainment, Titan Wales Comic Con is also supporting a cause close to the organiser’s heart, raising money for dementia charities. “My mum has had the illness for nine years now,” Andrew shared. “It’s important we raise as much as we can.” With affordable entry, free parking, and under 12s going free, the event is designed to be accessible to as many people as possible. Event details Titan Wales Comic ConCardiff Football Stadium, CF11 8AZSaturday 25th July 202610am – 5pm Tickets: £10 (12+), under 12s go free https://www.titanwalescomiccon.co.uk/ Local News Titan Wales Comic Con returns with a fresh, family-first feel​ April 17, 2026 Local News From pyramids to Pontypridd: high-tech survey to uncover secrets of historic bridge April 17, 2026 Local News The Rhondda Lip April 2026 April 17, 2026