Council urges dog walkers to check beach rules

The advice comes from Swansea Council following the reintroduction of the annual by-law in May.

The by-law, which is in place throughout the summer until October restricts dogs to specific beaches in Swansea and Gower and includes sections of Swansea Bay as well as Caswell Bay and a number of other council-owned beaches.

David Hopkins, Cabinet member for Corporate Services and Performance, said: “The by-law enables us to ensure that everyone visiting the beaches in Swansea can enjoy what’s on offer.

“It means we can create a good number of dog-friendly beaches for those who want to take their pets along with them. It also means that some beaches including sections of Swansea Bay are dog-free zones.”

The presence of the by-law means that if dog owners venture onto beaches that are not dog-friendly they risk receiving a fixed penalty notice.

Cllr Hopkins added: “We would urge dog owners to check which beaches are dog friendly so they can avoid being issued with a fixed penalty. Our aim isn’t to penalise dog-owners, it is simply to ensure everyone can enjoy the wide selection of beaches we have on offer.”

The council says signage is in place along Swansea Bay to make it easier for dog owners to know which part of the beach they are allowed on.

From 1 May to 30 September, dogs are banned from:

• Swansea Bay
  • from the River Tawe to the slip opposite Victoria Park 
  • from the beach access at Sketty Lane to the northern edge of the slip at the West Cross Inn
• Bracelet Bay
• Limeslade Bay
• Rotherslade Bay
• Langland Bay
• Caswell Bay
• Port Eynon beach
  • from the eastern edge of the steps to Port Eynon beach to the eastern edge of Horton beach access

Dogs can be walked year-round at:

• Swansea Bay from the slip opposite Victoria Park to the beach access at Sketty Lane
• Horton from the lifeguard station east towards Oxwich
• Mumbles
• Pwll Du
• Pobbles
• Three Cliffs
• Tor Bay
• Crawley
• Oxwich
• Mewslade
• Rhossili
• Llangennith
• Broughton
• Whiteford Sands
• Port Eynon from the main steps west to the Salt House

#beaches #dogBan #Dogs #Gower #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Police launch appeal to identify man whose body washed up on Gower beach over a year ago

The body of the 6ft man washed up on the shore between Slade Bay and Green Meadow Leisure Park on Gower on 16 December 2023.

A spokesperson for South Wales Police said: “On December 16 2023, we received a report of man’s body having been washed up in the shore in the Gower area of Swansea, between Slade Bay and Green Meadow Leisure Park. Since that time, officers have been unable to identify him.

“The man had a black leather belt on and a pair of black socks and size 9 Magnum walking boots. There are no other distinguishing marks to assist Police with the identification of this man.

“South Wales Police has worked with other forces within and outside of the UK and to date there has been no matches on the DNA obtained from the body. The body has been described as a white man, 6ft in height and with a shoulder width of 20 inches.

“We are appealing for any new information in relation to the identity of this man. If you have any information, please contact South Wales Police on 101 and quote reference number 2300426894.”

#featured #Gower #SladeBay #SouthWalesPolice

Beach-goers urged to back ban on ‘flying ring’ frisbees

The cute and inquisitive creatures have made their home on rocky outcrops around Gower, but their lives are put at risk by the discarded doughnut-shaped flying rings which can snare them round their necks.

Swansea Council says it has already been working with Gower Seal Group, local schools and businesses on Gower to promote the ban after passing a notice of motion that aims to see an end to the use of the rings anywhere near wildlife along the area’s coastline.

Gower businesses Pitton Cross Caravan and Camping, Kennexstone Camping and Touring Park, and Surfside Café, Langland, Northway Garage, Bishopston have already voluntarily stopped selling them.

Gower Seal Group continue to visit schools in the area to talk to youngsters about seals and other marine life, spotlighting how they can support the effort.

Gareth Richards, Founder of Gower Seal Group and Vice Chair of the UK Seal Alliance Executive, said: “Nobody buys a flying ring with the intention of causing pain and suffering to seals. But that’s what can happen if a flying ring is lost or discarded at a beach or near a waterway.

“A seal’s natural curiosity and playfulness when finding a flying ring in the water soon becomes a nightmare when, very quickly, they find themselves trapped by one around their neck.”

He said the creatures can’t free themselves of this entanglement and as they grow the ring tightens restricts their movement and will often cause pain, suffering and ultimately death.

And now the seal group is planning a national campaign to ‘Save Our Seals From Flying Rings’, launching on May 26, which includes a petition calling on the Government to ban the import of flying rings and to councils across the UK to ban them.

Mr Richards said: “That’s why we are extremely grateful to councillors in Swansea for continuing to support this campaign and showing leadership to protect our visiting seals from suffering by not supporting the sale or use of flying rings in our area.”

Andrew Stevens, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, said: “We fully support what Gower Seal Group is doing to protect our seals. We are so lucky to have seals near many of our beaches in Swansea and Gower.

“The vast majority of the many thousands of people who visit Gower every year treat the area, its wildlife and its coastline with respect. Along with the Gower Seal Group we are urging visitors to play their part to protect our seal population as well.”

Rocky coastal spots such as Limeslade and Bracelet Bay, as well as Port Eynon and Langland Bay have all been known to provide resting spots for groups of seals as well as thousands of visiting public every year.

Seals spend around 80% of their time at sea and come ashore along Gower to rest, sleep and digest their food.

The short time they are on land is vital to their health but also makes them vulnerable to the impact of humans on their lives.

#beaches #BraceletBay #Environment #frisbee #Gower #GowerSealGroup #LanglandBay #Limeslade #PortEynon #Seals #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Funding boost pledged for Swansea Men’s Sheds

Men’s Sheds are community spaces where men and women from all backgrounds can meet, chat and take part in the shed’s activities.

To date Swansea Council says it has invested more than £100,000 to support the network with the number of sheds increasing from single figures to more than 20 in just four years.

A further £25,000 is available this year and groups can now apply by visiting swansea.gov.uk/SupportForMensSheds with a closing date of Sunday June 8.

The funding can be used for both capital and revenue aspects of projects and the grants are open to new groups and those that have been assisted in the past.

Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Wellbeing, Alyson Anthony, said: “Men’s Sheds have a really positive impact on health, well-being and in reducing social isolation by drawing on the wealth of skills and experience that exists within our communities.

“I’ve been lucky enough to visit some of these groups in Swansea to see the life-changing impact they can have on those involved, both men and women.

“I would urge any groups that may qualify to get in touch, whether they are established or just getting started, as our Tackling Poverty team are available for a friendly chat and advice about the opportunities for support that are available.”

There is no minimum or maximum amount set for applications, however it is anticipated the average grants will be up to £1,200.

The Old Blacksmiths in Clydach (pictured top) is among those to have secured funding in the past and said the impact of Men’s Sheds can be life changing.

“We have an 89-year-old who has been coming to the Shed since we opened. He has recently said that he would be lost without the Shed. He lives on his own and is always the first to arrive, ready to start or finish a project. He has made wonderful friends and life is worth living again after losing his wife,” said a spokeswoman.

A regular at the Gateway to Gower Community Shed added: “I really enjoy coming to the shed as I get to chat and meet lovely people with different talents and we all help each other experience new hobbies. It is a real community event which is so important. It gets me out of the house and having the delicious food is a real bonus. You can see it lifts people’s spirits just getting together and making things.”

#Clydach #funding #Gower #MenSShed #SwanseaCouncil

Four Swansea beaches named among Wales’ best in prestigious Wales Coast Awards

Environmental charity Keep Wales Tidy today announced the recipients of the much-coveted annual awards, with three beaches receiving the globally-recognised Blue Flag Awards, and one receiving a Green Coast Award.  

A total of 49 beaches across Wales were recognised in the awards, which play a vital role in protecting our precious marine environment and are known around the world as a symbol of quality.  

Caswell Bay, Langland Bay and Port Eynon, all in Gower, all retained their status as Blue Flag beaches. This is one of the world’s most recognised awards for beaches, marinas and tourism boats, recognising not only the highest standards of water quality, but also high-quality amenities, sustainable development of tourism, information provision, environmental education, safety and access, and site management  

The three locations were among 21 across Wales achieving the Blue Flag accolade. Awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), beaches must adhere to specific criteria ensuring the beach or marina is clean, safe, and well-managed, promoting sustainability and attracting visitors.    

In addition, Bracelet Bay, on Mumbles Head, retained its status as a Green Coast Award-winning beach, one of 15 locations in Wales to achieve the award which celebrate the ‘hidden gems’ of the Welsh coastline. The Green Coast Award celebrates Bracelet Bay as an exceptional place to enjoy stunning scenery, rich coastal heritage and diversity. It joins the likes of Mwnt and Penbryn in Ceredigion, and Freshwater East and Manorbier in Pembrokeshire in being commended for unspoilt beauty, excellent water quality and a high standard of environmental education.  

Cllr Robert Francis-Davies, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Investment, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “Our award-winning beaches are a real asset for the city and a huge draw for visitors and locals alike.

“Gaining and retaining blue flag status takes a lot of time and investment so locals and visitors can enjoy clean, safe and beautiful beaches all year-round. So we are delighted to once again fly the Blue Flags at some of our most iconic Gower beaches.”

Alongside the Blue Flag and Green Coast Awards, Seaside Awards were given to 15 beaches across Wales, including Aberavon in Neath Port Talbot, Aberystwyth South and North, Penarth and Barry Island’s Whitmore Bay in the Vale of Glamorgan. This is a UK-only beach award available in England, Northern Ireland and Wales, with its distinctive yellow and blue flag signifying a clean, attractive and well-managed coastal stretch, with a good standard of water quality, public facilities, safety provision and management.  

The Wales Coast Awards have been managed by Keep Wales Tidy for more than 20 years and signify that a beach or marina meets and maintains the highest environmental standards and achieves tough water quality targets, as well as ensuring high standards of information provision, environmental education, safety, and site management.  

The Awards are voluntary and recognise the huge effort of staff and volunteers across Wales who are committed to protecting and preserving our natural landscape in the face of increasingly challenging circumstances. 

Owen Derbyshire, Chief Executive of Keep Wales Tidy congratulated Swansea on its award-winning coastal locations. 

He said: “Congratulations to Swansea on its Coast Award-winning beaches for 2025. Swansea is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Wales and we’re delighted to see this recognised in the 2025 Wales Coast Awards. Not only are these beautiful beaches to visit, but visitors can. Ow be assured that they are clean, safe and well-managed with excellent facilities too.” 

He added: “The Wales Coast Awards are a fantastic celebration of Wales’ beautiful and diverse coastline and are testament to the huge effort of staff and volunteers at sites across Wales. Thank you to everyone who works so hard to protect and preserve our natural landscape in the face of increasingly challenging circumstances.”  

#BlueFlag #BraceletBay #CaswellBay #Gower #GreenCoastAwards #KeepWalesTidy #LanglandBay #PortEynon #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

A photo from Wales! Worm's Head, Gower
#photography #wales #uk #gower

This super ridge walk on Rhossili Down gives you fabulous views over Rhossili Bay and Worms Head to one side and over virtually the whole #Gower Peninsula on the other. See https://www.happyhiker.co.uk/MyWalks/Gower/Rhossili%20Bay%20and%20Rhossili%20Down/Hiking%20Pages%20-%20Rhossili%20Bay%20and%20Rhosilli%20Down.htm
#Wales #Coast #WalesCoastPath

Police issue snake warning for Gower dog walkers

Police have issued advice for dog walkers if their pet has been bitten by an adder, and urged owners to keep their dog on a lead at all times – particularly on the sand dunes of Port Eynon and near Worms Head in Rhosilli on Gower.

A spokesperson for South Wales Police’s Gower Neighbourhood Policing Team, who cover wildlife and rural crime, said: “Please be advised that we have received several reports regarding increased sightings of adders in Port Eynon (sand dunes) and near NCI Worm’s Head, Rhosilli. Please do the right thing and keep your dogs on leads at all times.

“Adders are the only venomous snakes in the UK and are generally active from early spring to October when they aren’t hibernating. They often live in sand dunes, hillsides, moors and woodlands and are more likely to bite dogs between April and July, especially in the late afternoon.

“If you suspect an adder has bitten your dog, immediately check for two small puncture marks, swelling or redness in the area – these are common signs of adder bites. It is important to keep your dog calm and still to prevent the venom spreading and seek veterinary advice ASAP.”

#adder #Dogs #Gower #PortEynon #RhossiliBay #snakeBite #snakes #SouthWalesPolice #WormsHead

End of the pier.

#Mumbles #Gower #Swansea #Wales #Sea #seaside #mwmbwls #Photography

Farmers urge dog walkers to keep pets on leads to avoid ‘devastating impact’ of livestock attacks

As the Easter holidays get underway, the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) is asking dog owners to act responsibly when out enjoying the countryside.

Its a message that’s been echoed by Swansea Council who have urged residents and visitors alike to follow the Countryside Code and make sure that if they’re taking their dogs on their walk on the hills around the city or on Gower that they keep them on leads anywhere near livestock.

Andrew Stevens, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, and a livestock farmer in Gorseinon, said most of the 400 miles of rural paths and bridleways in the Swansea area cross farmers’ fields and dogs running free off their leads was a continuing concern where livestock was present.

He said: “Working alongside our partners in the farming community and Gower, our countryside access team plays its part in supporting the network of rural footpaths that add to the charm and people’s enjoyment of this incredible place.

“But we want to urge visitors to follow the Countryside Code and keep their dogs on leads where there is livestock around. Gower and other rural areas of Swansea are home to many livestock farms and sheep in particular are at risk from dogs.”

Cllr Stevens added: “The farming community welcomes responsible dog owners, but many visitors are not aware that even if their dog doesn’t come into direct contact with a sheep, the distress caused by being chased by a dog can trigger a pregnant ewe to die or miscarry.

“No matter how in control of their pets they think they are, owners should always remain alert and dogs should always be on a lead around livestock.”

The Dogs Protection of Livestock Act (1953) makes it an offence to allow a dog to worry livestock and can be punished with a fine of up to £1,000.

However, over recent years the Farmers Union of Wales (FUW) has been lobbying to ensure the police have greater powers to deal with attacks on livestock, stressing the importance of strong enforcement in preventing attacks. 

Currently, the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Bill is making its way through Parliament. The Bill includes changes to what constitutes an offence, and increased powers for investigation of suspected offences.  

Commenting on the impact livestock worrying on farmers, FUW Regional Vice-President, Anwen Hughes said: “These attacks are not mere numbers; they inflict devastating trauma on livestock and further economic strain and stress on farmers. Beyond fatalities and severe injuries, the stress alone can trigger miscarriages in ewes, or lambs to become separated from their mothers. 

“This Easter, as we prepare to welcome visitors to enjoy our beautiful countryside, it’s crucial dog owners demonstrate diligence and responsibility when outside. Dog owners should never underestimate their dog, even the most friendly and well-trained dogs, have a natural instinct to chase and its vital that owners act responsibly when outside in the countryside. 

“There are no winners from livestock attacks. The trauma ripples through livestock, dog owners, and farmers, often leaving lasting emotional scars and a persistent fear of recurrence.”

The FUW also emphasised the importance of dog owners cleaning up after their dog. Dog waste can spread diseases to livestock, and it’s vital dog owners bring bags and dispose of dog feces properly in a bin and not just throw it away.

As part of their campaign to raise awareness of livestock worrying, the FUW has created signs for farmers and landowners encouraging dog owners to keep their dogs on a lead.

Ian Rickman, FUW President commented: “The FUW continues to lobby for greater police and legal powers to deal with dog attacks on livestock and the devastating impact they continue to have on Welsh farmers. Ultimately however, attacks on livestock are completely preventable through responsible dog ownership by the public.

“As farmers there are some precautions we can undertake to mitigate against the risk of dog attacks on our livestock. Steps such as displaying appropriate signage, clearly warning dog owners to keep their dogs on leads and under control, can be helpful in raising awareness and hopefully ensure the countryside can be enjoyed by everyone in a sustainable manner.”

(Lead image: Swansea Council)

#CllrAndrewStevens #countryside #Dogs #FarmersUnionOfWales #Farming #FUW #Gower #livestock #sheep #sheepWorrying #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #walking

Langland care home rated by residents as one of the Top 20 care homes in Wales

The award is based on reviews of the care home written by their residents, as well as their friends and relatives.

It is collated by carehome.co.uk who list all registered care homes in the UK as well as reviews, inspection ratings and detailed and transparent fee information.

Amanda Hopkins, reviews manager of carehome.co.uk, said: “We now have over 360,000 reviews of care homes on carehome.co.uk, which means we can give a really good insight into the kind of care and facilities offered by thousands of UK care homes.

“Our reviews show the quality of a care home’s facilities, as well as the standard of their care and support, staff, activities and nutrition and if the care home is good value for money.

“We would like to congratulate Brynfield Manor care home on being a Top 20 care home in Wales as their reviews show they provide an excellent standard of care. It is such an achievement to be named as a top rated care home by the residents who actually receive the care as well as their family and friends.

“Choosing a care home can be overwhelming and time consuming for both the person going to live there as well as their family, so we hope our awards for the highest rated homes will help simplify the search.”

Jason Banfield, director of Langland Care said: “Brynfield Manor has been honoured with the Top 20 Care Home Award by carehome.co.uk, reflecting its unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care and services to its residents.​

“The ethos at Brynfield Manor centres on ensuring residents receive the highest quality in all aspects of their care. The home has recently undergone a comprehensive refurbishment, creating a comfortable and modern living environment. The dedicated in-house staff, without reliance on agency personnel, foster strong relationships with residents, ensuring consistent and personalized care.​

“Activities play a vital role in enhancing residents’ well-being. The activities coordinators organize regular outings using a new 16-seater bus, providing residents with opportunities to engage with the broader community. Maintaining a clean and hygienic environment is a priority, upheld by a diligent housekeeping team.​

“Under the leadership of Manager Mandy Jones, a recognized dementia champion, Brynfield Manor emphasizes compassionate and specialized care for residents with dementia. Mandy’s dedication is evident in her active involvement in community initiatives, such as organizing fundraising events that have significantly contributed to local dementia support efforts.​

“This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire Brynfield Manor team, reinforcing their commitment to excellence in care and the well-being of their residents.”

#careHome #Gower #Langland #LanglandCare #Swansea

Pioneering study examines cold water therapy’s potential to treat PTSD

According to PTSD UK, one in 10 people in the UK is expected to experience PTSD at some point in their lives. Yet despite its prevalence, there has been limited research undertaken into the condition in the UK, and to date, no scientific study has been conducted anywhere in the world that explicitly examines the impact of CWI on PTSD symptoms.

The Swansea University study involves 16 members of the Veterans RV Swansea Community group who have PTSD and take part in cold-water dipping and swimming sessions at Caswell Bay in Gower.

Lead researcher Dr Denise Hill, Associate Professor of Applied Sport Psychology at Swansea University, said: “With at least eight per cent of UK veterans diagnosed with PTSD annually, the condition presents significant economic, personal, and social challenges. While other studies have highlighted the benefits of cold water therapy, ours seeks to establish whether regular cold-water immersion can reduce PTSD symptoms specifically, and serve as an accessible and acceptable supplement to traditional mental health treatments.”

Before the observation period, study participants began self-administering saliva samples four times a day over two days to measure cortisol levels – an indicator of stress.

After each weekly cold water immersion session, participants complete three post-dip questionnaires assessing their levels of wellbeing, depression, and PTSD symptoms.

Throughout the study, participants periodically repeat the saliva sampling process to track changes in cortisol levels and overall symptomology.

Initial findings from the study show that cold water immersion is positively impacting a number of the PTSD symptoms across the participant group.

Phil Jones, a former Royal Marines Commando who is taking part in the study, said: “For years, I’ve practiced cold-water immersion to support my mental health and overall wellbeing, so I was excited to take part in this study alongside the veterans’ group I support.

“My ultimate goal has always been to help more veterans struggling with PTSD, and it’s been incredible to witness firsthand the physical and mental benefits this practice has had on those new to it. Now, more than ever, I’m eager to see the study’s final results, and I truly hope this research paves the way for new, effective ways to support thousands of veterans worldwide.”

Dr Hill added: “This study represents an important first step in understanding whether CWI can serve as a complementary therapy for veterans diagnosed with PTSD. If successful, the findings should pave the way for further research, and if cold water immersion is deemed to be effective, the development of new, accessible treatment pathways for those with the condition.

“Given the accessibility and appeal of cold water immersion among veterans, we hope our research will provide valuable insights into its potential as a therapeutic option.”

(Lead image: Swansea University)

#CaswellBay #coldWaterSwimming #Gower #PTSD #research #Swansea #SwanseaUniversity #swimming #Veterans

Cyclists get online help with ancient Gower bridleways

Swansea Council has developed an online map, setting out the off-road cycle routes in parts of Gower, including Rhossili and Llanmadoc.

The new map can be downloaded to a smartphone and can be used to guide two-wheeled lovers around a network of ancient bridleways that have been in place for centuries.

The routes treat cyclists to spectacular views from Rhossili Down and Llanmadoc Hill across Carmarthen Bay to Tenby and the Bristol Channel to north Devon, with the backdrop of the Brecon Beacons to the north.

The new online map and webpages provide lots of advice for cyclists, including visitor information about car parking, toilet facilities, general information about cycling in the countryside, as well as tips on what to do if you encounter horse riders using the bridleways.

Andrew Stevens, Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, said: “Gower is known worldwide for its beautiful coastline and unique landscapes.

“As well as being a great place for visiting and walking, there are plenty of lesser-known routes that are accessible for off-road cycling, providing a different perspective of Gower.

“Our Countryside Access Team has created an online version of the route map, along with plenty of tips and advice for visitors who want to hop on a bike and see Gower on two wheels.”

The Council has also recently announced further plans to upgrade a section of the Gower Coast Path and follows improvements to a section of path between Rotherslade and Limeslade.

Swansea’s section of the All Wales Coast Path was officially opened in 2012, where 61km of coast path have been joined together to enable walkers to trek from Swansea’s waterfront in SA1 and walk right through to Loughor, travelling through Caswell Bay, Port Eynon, Rhossili and Llanmadoc.

Cllr Stevens added; “Gower is now more accessible to walkers and cyclists than it’s ever been. We’ve continued to upgrade sections of the coast path to enable all users to enjoy the beauty of Gower.

“Now that we are starting to see the warmer weather, I would encourage everyone to take a trip out to Gower and enjoy what the region has to offer – whether on foot or on a bike.”

(Lead image Swansea Council)

#CllrAndrewStevens #cycling #Gower #SwanseaCouncil

Gower man fined for cutting down acres of woodland ordered to pay more after selling property

During a long-running case against Jeff Lane, 74 from Cartersford, Gower, he was found guilty of illegally felling more than 8 hectares of native woodland within the Gower Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

On 14 June 2024, the Crown Court made a confiscation order under the Proceeds of Crime Act against Mr Lane, and he was ordered to pay £11,280.77, based on the Court’s assessment of his available assets at that time.

In December 2024, NRW say they became aware that Mr Lane was about to come into additional assets from the sale of property.

Acting on this information, NRW made an application to the Crown Court to increase the amount that Mr Lane must pay under the original confiscation order.

Mr Lane did not oppose NRW’s application and, on 31 March 2025, Swansea Crown Court ordered him to pay an increased amount of £78,614.60. This figure represents the full extent of the Mr Lane financial gain from his offending.

Callum Stone, Forest Regulation and Tree Health Team Leader for NRW, said: “Woodland loss is a significant threat to habitats and biodiversity, especially in the face of the climate and nature emergency. These cases send a clear message that illegal felling will not be tolerated.

“Felling licences play a crucial role in managing our forests sustainably, and we will take enforcement action where necessary to protect them.

“We’re also committed to using the confiscation regime to ensure that convicted defendants do not keep any financial benefit from the environmental crimes they have committed.”

(Lead image: NRW)

#featured #Gower #NaturalResourcesWales #treeFelling #Trees #woodland

Rhossili Down, on the #Gower Peninsula provides a great ridge walk with views over the bay, the famous Worm’s Head and inland. It includes the highest point on the Peninsula. Details at https://www.happyhiker.co.uk/MyWalks/Gower/Rhossili%20Bay%20and%20Rhossili%20Down/Hiking%20Pages%20-%20Rhossili%20Bay%20and%20Rhosilli%20Down.htm

#Wales

Inspectors praise Gower school’s ‘vibrant and inclusive environment’ and ‘enthusiastic staff’

They were particularly impressed with the teachers’ innovative approach to a broad and engaging curriculum, which offers  real-life learning opportunities that significantly enhance pupils’ life skills, for example through their weekly Caffi Cynefin. 

Among other highlights, a strong emphasis on physical activity was showcased, helping pupils develop their physical skills and understand the joys and benefits of exercise. Additionally, the school’s creative teaching methods are proving invaluable in enhancing pupils’ independence and integral skills.    

The report states: “Most pupils make good progress. Their communication skills develop significantly, with most pupils leaving school able to speak confidently and read fluently. Writing skills also develop effectively.”

Overall, pupils’ numeracy, digital and Welsh skills develop well.

The report adds: “Leaders provide strong strategic direction and have a clear vision for the school’s development that they share with others successfully.

“There are effective processes to evaluate the school’s work and track progress.

“Overall, staff are effective facilitators of learning, using questioning to challenge thinking and deepen understanding. Teaching assistants provide purposeful bespoke support.

“The warm and supportive working relationships between staff and pupils are based on mutual respect. This ensures that nearly all pupils behave well.”

Headteacher Donna Caswell said: “I’m absolutely thrilled that the inspectors have recognised the fantastic achievements of our pupils and staff who bring such energy to school every single day.

“I couldn’t be prouder, and I truly hope that everyone connected with our school feels the same. Our community is so important to us and has played an invaluable role in our success.”

Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, Robert Smith, said: “This is very pleasing report and I congratulate everyone at Llanrhidian Primary School.”

(Lead image: Swansea Council)

#education #Gower #Llanrhidian #LlanrhidianPrimarySchool #SwanseaCouncil

Scenic Gower footpath to get further upgrades

In recent years, the council says its Countryside Access Team has been targeting sections of path in need of upgrading as well as rerouting other sections that have been affected by coastal erosion.

A 450m section of path has recently been completed between Limeslade and Rotherslade and follows on from similar work in the same area where 270m of accessible path was created.

Both new sections were required due to coastal erosion near to the original paths.

Now the council is investing a further £80k to complete the Limeslade to Rotherslade section by upgrading the remaining 250m of path along the route, and will feature a wider accessible concrete surface that can be used by all walkers and users of wheelchairs and buggies.

Andrew Stevens, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, said: “The Gower coast path is a hugely popular, much-loved destination used all year round.

“We’ve identified a section of path between Limeslade and Rotherslade that we want to tackle and bring it up to the same standard as other sections nearby.

“Additional funding within our highways maintenance programme has been secured to enable us to complete this work this year and ensure the route is one of the best around the Wales coastline.”

A further 1.5km of coast path has also previously been upgraded between Caswell Bay and Langland.

Swansea’s section of the All Wales Coast Path was officially opened in 2012, where 61km of coast path have been joined together to enable walkers to trek from Swansea’s waterfront in SA1 and walk right through to Loughor, travelling through Caswell Bay, Port Eynon, Rhossili and Llanmadoc.

Cllr Stevens added: “I believe the stretch of coast path along Swansea and Gower boasts some of the most breathtaking views along the Welsh coastline. It’s truly stunning, and I’d encourage anyone who hasn’t walked it yet to take a stroll and experience its beauty.”

(Lead image: Swansea Council)

#CllrAndrewStevens #footpath #Gower #Limeslade #Rotherslade #SwanseaCouncil

The remaining stones of the chamber of Sweyne's Howes (North) chambered tomb on the slopes below Rhossili Down, Gŵyr/Gower for #StandingStoneSunday. There are two tombs here, as well as many Bronze Age cairns and a prehistoric settlement.

This visit March 2012.
#Gower #SouthWales #Neolithic

Body of pensioner recovered from Gower beach by police

The force have confirmed that the body has been identified and family members notified.

It is understood that a 73-year-old man, who has not yet been named was recovered on the morning of February 16, 2025.

South Wales Police also confirmed that the circumstances of the death were not suspicious.

A South Wales Police spokesperson said:

“Officers recovered the body of a 73-year-old man from Langland, Swansea, at Langland Bay yesterday morning (Sunday February 16).

“The man has been identified and his family have been informed. The circumstances are not suspicious.”

[Lead image: Media Wales]

#death #Gower #LanglandBay #SouthWalesPolice

Gower coast path completed in record time

Swansea Council brought in contractors in the middle of January to help create a new section of path near Rotherslade after an existing stretch of path was threatened by coastal erosion directly below the route.

A new 370 metre long stretch of path, 1.5 metres wide, has now been completed, with the help of local contractors – Hamilton Construction, and has enabled countryside access officers in the council to reopen the full route much earlier than planned.

The brand new section is also an improvement on the original route and includes a fully accessible path, suitable for walkers, parents with baby buggies and also wheelchair users.

Andrew Stevens, Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, said:

“Our Countryside Access Team, together with local contractors, have done a fantastic job, creating the replacement section in such a short time.

“The Gower coast path is a hugely popular, much-loved destination used all year round, so finishing this work with minimal disruption for walkers is brilliant.

“Coastal erosion is something we need to respond to when it impacts on the route. We have done everything possible to get the route reopened to the public.”

The latest upgrade also follows on from previous work to the path when 270 metres of new path was created after a similar collapse of the nearby cliff side occurred.

A further 1.5km of coast path has also previously been upgraded between Caswell Bay and Langland.

Swansea’s section of the All Wales Coast Path was officially opened in 2012, where 61km of coast path have been joined together to enable walkers to trek from Swansea’s waterfront in SA1 and walk right through to Loughor, travelling through Caswell Bay, Port Eynon, Rhossili and Llanmadoc.

Cllr Stevens added: “I believe the stretch of coast path along Swansea and Gower boasts some of the most breathtaking views along the Welsh coastline. It’s truly stunning, and I’d encourage anyone who hasn’t walked it yet to take a stroll and experience its beauty.”

[Lead Image: Swansea Council]

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