Gower named one of the best places on Earth to stargaze as dark‑sky status confirmed

The announcement lands just ahead of Welsh Dark Skies Week (13–22 February 2026) and marks a major moment for the region, with Gower now joining a global network of protected night‑sky locations.

A coastline where the Milky Way still shines

With some of the clearest, least light‑polluted skies in Wales, Gower is now being hailed as one of the country’s most spectacular places to watch the night sky. On the darkest nights, stargazers can see the Milky Way stretching over the waves — a sight that’s vanished from most of Europe and the US, where 99% of people now live under light‑polluted skies, according to DarkSky International.

The new status means Gower is officially recognised as a landscape where the night sky is protected, celebrated and accessible — whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or someone who’s never pointed a telescope at the sky before.

And it’s not just stars. In summer, beaches like Caswell, Three Cliffs and Port Eynon glow with bioluminescent plankton, creating surreal, neon‑blue shorelines that draw photographers and night‑time walkers from across the UK.

A major milestone for Swansea Bay

The accreditation was awarded by DarkSky International, the global authority on night‑sky conservation. It follows years of partnership work between Swansea Council, Welsh Government, Natural Resources Wales, the Gower Society and local communities.

Every street light on Gower has now been retrofitted with dark‑sky‑friendly LED lanterns, and new developments must follow strict lighting rules to protect the night environment.

The move puts Swansea Bay firmly on the map for astro‑tourism — a growing sector that brings visitors in outside the traditional summer season.

Where to find the darkest skies in Swansea Bay

https://youtu.be/9apykobwbLY

Gower’s landscapes offer a mix of easy‑access viewpoints and remote, wild locations where the night sky feels almost untouched.

Port Eynon
A wide, open bay with huge skies and uninterrupted views across the Bristol Channel.

Three Cliffs Bay
A dramatic, secluded spot where stargazers can watch constellations rise over the tidal estuary.

Oxwich
Easy to reach, with facilities nearby — ideal for families and first‑timers.

Rhossili Bay
One of the UK’s most famous coastal viewpoints by day; by night, a vast stage for meteor showers.

Cefn Bryn
Gower’s sandstone ridge offering 360‑degree views and some of the clearest skies in Wales.

https://youtu.be/wTh4GSL0rTA

A growing draw for visitors

Visit Swansea Bay says the new status strengthens the region’s reputation as a year‑round destination, already attracting more than 4.6 million visitors a year to its beaches, countryside, attractions and food scene.

The organisation works with more than 260 local tourism businesses and says dark‑sky tourism is becoming a major part of the region’s appeal.

Swansea gelato maker ramps up growth after landing key food safety certification

GG’s Gelato, founded in Penclawdd in 2019, has gone from a single Gower parlour to supplying cafés, restaurants, theatres and convenience stores across south Wales — and now says it is ready to scale even further after achieving SALSA accreditation.

The family‑run business, launched by local entrepreneur Keith Jones, has expanded rapidly in recent years. After outgrowing its original parlour kitchen, the company moved into a dedicated manufacturing site in 2024 and invested in specialist production equipment to boost capacity.

Certification opens the door to bigger retailers

To grow its wholesale arm, GG’s Gelato set its sights on securing SALSA — one of the UK’s most trusted food safety standards for small producers. The accreditation is often essential for supplying national and regional retailers, wholesalers and foodservice chains.

The company turned to ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre at Cardiff Metropolitan University for technical support through the Welsh Government’s HELIX Programme.

ZERO2FIVE helped redesign the factory layout to ensure hygienic production and mentored the team through the detailed requirements of the SALSA standard, covering HACCP, allergen controls, supplier risk assessments and food safety documentation.

Alongside this, the Welsh Government’s Cywain programme supported the business with profile‑raising, trade development and one‑to‑one mentoring, helping GG’s Gelato build relationships with new wholesale customers.

The company passed its SALSA audit in September 2025 and has since been able to access new distribution channels and attend Taste Wales / Blas Cymru, the Welsh Government’s flagship food and drink trade event.

‘Vital to the next stage of growth’

Toby Link‑Jones, Operations Manager for GG’s Gelato, said:

“The support from ZERO2FIVE and Cywain will be vital to the next stage of growth for our company.”

He said the accreditation would give larger wholesale buyers confidence in the brand’s standards.

He added:

“Securing SALSA certification will give bigger wholesale customers the confidence to stock our products, whilst the support from Cywain has helped us to open the doors to these distribution channels.”

Welsh Government support ‘crucial’ for food and drink SMEs

Professor Peter Sykes, Head of ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre, said:

“Certification schemes such as SALSA play a crucial role for Welsh food and drink SMEs aiming to grow their wholesale distribution.”

He encouraged other producers to explore the support available through the HELIX Programme.

Alex James, Cywain Project Manager, said:

“We take great delight in helping producers to grow in experience and confidence, bringing new products to the marketplace and adding their talents to the Welsh food and drink industry as a whole.”

GG’s Gelato says it now plans to continue expanding its wholesale footprint across Wales as demand for its small‑batch gelato grows.

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Sharing Table’s Christmas hamper campaign celebrates seventh year delivering festive cheer across Gower

The 2025 campaign marked the seventh consecutive year that The Sharing Table has organised Christmas deliveries, with more than 100 hampers distributed across the constituency. Each one was filled with locally sourced, high‑quality produce with the support of businesses including Karl Davies Butcher and Shepherds of Gorseinon.

Ms Antoniazzi, who has backed the project since its launch in 2019, reflected on the importance of the initiative at a time when households across Swansea’s north and western communities continue to feel the strain.

Speaking on the campaign, Tonia Antoniazzi MP said:

“This campaign is a reminder of what makes our community here in Gower and across Swansea so special. Although Gower is often seen as an affluent area, it encompasses many post‑industrial and rural communities where families still face real challenges. These hampers make a meaningful difference every Christmas, and I’m hugely grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s campaign possible.”

The Sharing Table was founded by Andrew Copson, who initially set out to ensure families who needed a little extra support at Christmas never went without.

The project has since expanded beyond festive support, now helping to install kitchens in local schools, giving pupils and community groups access to vital cooking and nutrition education.

Andrew Copson expressed his gratitude to the community for their ongoing commitment.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported The Sharing Table throughout the year. Whether you donated, volunteered, partnered with us, or helped spread the word, you’ve played a vital part in making sure families across our community feel supported and valued.

“The generosity we see year after year is truly humbling, and it’s what keeps this project growing. I’m incredibly grateful to every individual and local business who has stood with us.”

Ms Antoniazzi added:

“It has been a privilege to support The Sharing Table’s wider work. Their school kitchens project makes a positive impact far beyond Christmas. Its been brilliant seeing them helping young people gain confidence to cook, learn about food and nutrition, and gain some important life skills. Andrew and his team are an inspiration, and the whole community should be proud of what they’ve achieved.”

Tonia also thanked the volunteers, donors, and local businesses whose support ensured the 2025 hampers reached families from Cockett to Gorseinon, Penclawdd to West Cross, and across the Gower peninsula.

“Every volunteer who packed a hamper, every business that contributed, and every individual who gave time or money helped brighten someone’s Christmas. Your kindness brought joy to homes across Gower.”

Residents wishing to support The Sharing Table, whether through donations, volunteering, or contributing to next year’s hamper campaign are encouraged to get in touch with The Sharing Table or Tonia Antoniazzi MPs constituency office.

Rhossili cliff horses win reprieve after National Trust meeting

Local farmer Nicky Beynon, who has cared for the animals for generations, was asked to provide paperwork proving the horses’ grazing rights. Documents and history stretching back decades were presented to the Trust, confirming the legitimacy of the herd’s presence on the land.

Historic grazing rights proven

The National Trust, as landowner, had requested evidence to cover itself against any incidents involving the horses. After reviewing the paperwork, officials agreed the animals were entitled to remain.

Nicky Beynon said the horses “wouldn’t be there if they weren’t allowed,” stressing that the herd has been part of Rhossili long before many residents — and even before the Trust itself.

Community calls for better communication

While the outcome was welcomed as a positive resolution, campaigners in the Rhossili Horse Action Group said the episode highlighted the need for clearer communication between the Trust and the local community.

Robert Morgan, who runs Rhossili Sunflowers and Gower Fresh Christmas Trees, posted an update thanking supporters for their offers of help and kind words. He noted that “lots of pressure” had been felt locally alongside the requirements from the Trust, but welcomed the agreement that the horses would stay.

Locals call for education and respect

The decision to let the horses stay was met with relief and celebration across Gower — but also calls for better public awareness.

Dave Thomas suggested the National Trust should now “educate some of the visitors in the etiquette of being around animals,” proposing volunteer wardens to give “toolbox talks” about common grazing.

Meriel Hall, who has lived on Gower for nearly 50 years, said the outcome was a reminder that “it’s us that need to change our behaviour — not the animals.”

Others raised concerns about safety. Gwen Johns urged more protection from “dogs off their leads and ignorant walkers who get too close for a selfie,” while Louise Eden called for “large, clear signage” and multilingual warnings to keep the public at a respectful distance.

Carole Meloni added: “One death is too many — it happens every year. It’s heartbreaking.”

Simon Bowkett praised both Nicky Beynon and Alan Kearsley of the National Trust for resolving the issue, saying: “Let’s hope the point remains seen now.”

What it means for Rhossili

The decision ends weeks of uncertainty after the Trust initially ordered the removal of the horses, sparking widespread outcry. With grazing rights now confirmed, the animals will continue to roam the cliffs — a sight cherished by residents and visitors alike.

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#Farming #Gower #GowerFreshChristmasTrees #GowerPonies #horses #NationalTrust #Rhossili #RhossiliHorseActionGroup #Sunflower

Swansea ranks #2 in UK’s best winter seaside list – only beaten by Brighton!

Swansea has been crowned the UK’s second best winter seaside destination, finishing just behind Brighton in a national survey of 45 coastal towns and cities.

The study, carried out by SuomiCasino, found Swansea’s mix of 69 coastal trails, many along the dramatic Gower Peninsula, plus 558 bars and restaurants and 46 landmarks, made it one of the country’s most appealing off‑season escapes.

Swansea’s strong showing means it outranked well‑known seaside names including Portsmouth, Penzance, Blackpool and Eastbourne — and secured the title of Wales’s top winter seaside destination.

Winter by the Welsh coast

The survey highlights Swansea’s combination of scenic walking routes, cultural sites and dining options as ideal for a winter getaway.

Visitors can explore Mumbles Pier, walk the dramatic paths around Three Cliffs Bay, or enjoy local seafood at cosy waterfront restaurants. With an average winter temperature of 6.0°C and 3.8 hours of sunshine per day, the city offers a relatively mild and bright coastal experience compared to many rivals.

Brighton tops the list – but Swansea close behind

Brighton took the top spot thanks to its extensive dining scene, with 949 bars and restaurants, alongside 52 landmarks and 35 beach walking trails. But Swansea’s higher number of trails and strong mix of attractions put it firmly in second place, just behind the south coast city.

Portsmouth came third, praised for its maritime heritage and extensive seafront, while Penzance and Blackpool rounded out the top five.

Northern beaches offer longer daylight

While Swansea ranked highly for overall winter appeal, the study also highlighted northern destinations such as Whitby, Robin Hood’s Bay, and St Andrews for their longer daylight hours — each averaging 4.4 hours of winter sunshine per day.

These locations were noted for their dramatic coastlines, historic architecture and extended walking opportunities, proving that winter seaside escapes aren’t limited to the south coast.

Full rankings: Top 20 UK winter seaside destinations

#coastalCity #coastalTown #coastalTrail #gower #mumbles #seasideDestination #swansea #tourism #winterSeasideDestination

Police crack down on speeding drivers after livestock deaths on Gower commons

Officers warn of dangers as nights draw in

PC Chadwick from the Gower Neighbourhood Policing team said the 40mph limit across the commons is a maximum, not a target:

“With the darker nights drawing in, it is more difficult to spot the cattle on the road. When passing the animals, please give lots of space and be ready for sudden movements by the animals.”

Police say speed enforcement vehicles will be deployed alongside local officers, with patrols targeting hotspots where animals roam freely. Collisions must by law be reported, even if the animal walks away, so farmers can be alerted to possible injuries.

Long‑standing safety concerns

The warning comes after years of concern about road safety on the commons. BBC News reported in 2018 that more than 100 animals were killed in collisions over a five‑year period, prompting calls for tougher enforcement. In 2024, campaigners again urged drivers to slow down, highlighting the ongoing risks to cattle, ponies and foals.

Tragic incidents highlight the risk

Several high‑profile crashes have shocked the community. In 2019, three cows died after being struck by a Mercedes. In 2021, a van collided with a cow, while other incidents have seen foals killed, sparking sadness and anger among residents.

Farmers say the commons are unique and part of what makes Gower special, but warn that careless driving continues to threaten both animals and people.

Police message to drivers

South Wales Police are urging motorists to respect the animals’ right to roam and adjust their driving to conditions:

“The commons are unique, and the livestock are part of what makes Gower special. We want everyone to enjoy the area safely — that means respecting the animals and the law.”

#cattle #fairwoodCommon #gower #gowerCommons #gowerPonies #horses #motoring #roadTrafficAccident #southWalesPolice #speeding

£80,000 upgrade completed on Gower coast path between Rotherslade and Limeslade

Swansea Council has completed the final two sections of the coast path between Rotherslade and Limeslade, installing a 310‑metre concrete path that is 1.5 metres wide.

The full route stretches for 1.7km and has been subject to repeated works in recent years due to coastal erosion. In March, a new 450‑metre section was added, following a 270‑metre stretch completed in 2022.

The latest upgrade forms part of an £80,000 investment funded through the council’s highways maintenance programme.

Path strengthened against erosion

Andrew Stevens, Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, said thousands of people use the Gower coast path each year and the council has acted to protect it.

“The section between Limeslade and Rotherslade has unfortunately been a victim of coastal erosion in recent years, and we have done all we can to create new sections and divert it away from the affected area. This has also given us the opportunity to create a more accessible walking route that everyone can access.”

Accessible for all

Cllr Stevens added:

“We have now completed the final two short sections that have not been upgraded. While they were not impacted by coastal erosion, they now provide improved access for families with pushchairs and also wheelchair users. We’ve chosen to invest some of our highways and transport budget to enable the upgrade to take place.”

Part of wider All Wales Coast Path

Swansea’s section of the All Wales Coast Path was officially opened in 2012, linking 61km of coastline around the peninsula. Walkers can trek from Swansea’s SA1 waterfront through Caswell Bay, Port Eynon, Rhossili and Llanmadoc, right through to Loughor.

#cllrAndrewStevens #footpath #gower #gowerCoastPath #limeslade #rotherslade #swanseaCouncil #walesCoastPath

Swansea Parkinson’s patient gets back into his stride thanks to pioneering trial

Back on his feet in Gower

Malcolm Sims, 75, from Kittle, Gower, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s after friends noticed he was struggling to keep up on walks. His left leg was dragging and his stride had shortened, leaving him unsteady and anxious about falls.

Now, thanks to the STEPS II trial at Swansea Bay University Health Board’s Rehabilitation Engineering Unit, Malcolm is back enjoying long walks with friends.

The trial uses Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) – small electrical pads attached to the leg, linked to a switch in the heel of the shoe. Each time Malcolm takes a stride, the switch triggers the pads to stimulate the muscles, helping him walk more smoothly.

“It’s made such a difference, I’m back doing the things I enjoy and I feel more confident and steady on my feet,” said Malcolm.

“The faults my friend could see aren’t there any more, I keep up with them and I can walk miles.”

A simple idea with big impact

Malcolm says the device stops him experiencing “sticky foot” – when muscles fail to respond and the foot gets stuck. Even when he forgot the device on a trip away, the muscle memory it had created helped him keep walking confidently.

“I’m now getting on with life, using the device. I’m so glad I got involved with the trial and so grateful to the staff who have supported me,” he said.

Potential to transform care

The STEPS II study builds on earlier research showing FES can improve walking speed, reduce falls and boost confidence. Around 60 per cent of people with Parkinson’s suffer at least one fall a year, costing the NHS an estimated £2.3bn annually.

Dr Lorna Tasker, Consultant Clinical Scientist and Head of Rehabilitation Engineering at Swansea Bay UHB, said:

“We are delighted to see these promising results from using FES at this very early stage of the trial. The outcome will help shape future FES provision within Parkinson’s care.”

The trial is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research and led by Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust, with more than 200 participants across eight UK sites. Results are expected in 2027.

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#FunctionalElectricalStimulation #Gower #HealthTrial #Kittle #NationalInstituteForHealthAndCareResearch #NICE #ParkinsonS #RehabilitationEngineering #Swansea #SwanseaBayUniversityHealthBoard

Llanrhidian Post Office to re-open under new management

• Agreed re-opening at same location – The Cross, Llanrhidian, Swansea, SA3 1ES
• New store owners opening the branch
• Open Monday – Thursday: 7am – 10pm
• 60 hours of Post Office service

The new owners of the store are re-opening the branch on Monday 1 December at 1pm. 

This will restore a service to the community after the branch closed in March 2023 due to the resignation of the postmaster.

The opening hours will be Monday to Thursday: 7am – 10pm. This will provide 60 hours of Post Office service per week for the convenience of customers.

Post Office Area Change Manager, Fiona Shanahan, said:

“We know how important a Post Office is to a community and we are delighted to be restoring this branch in time for Christmas.”

#Gower #Llanrhidian #PostOffice

Swansea Council leader ranked second on Labour’s Senedd candidate list for Gŵyr Abertawe

Labour sets out its order for Gŵyr Abertawe

Welsh Labour has confirmed the order of its candidates for Gŵyr Abertawe, one of the 16 new “super constituencies” that will elect six members each at the next Senedd election.

The list is headed by Mike Hedges MS, the long‑standing representative for Swansea East, with Rob Stewart placed second. Rebecca Fogarty, a West Cross councillor and newly appointed cabinet member, is ranked third, followed by Rebecca Francis‑Davies, daughter of cabinet member Robert Francis‑Davies.

Also on the list are Sara Faye, political advisor to Julie James MS who is not standing in the next election; Kemba Hadaway‑Morgan, a trade unionist, member of Race Council Cymru and trade union representative on several Welsh Government committees; Patience Bentu, a Swansea councillor for Castle Ward and member of the Mid and West Wales Fire Authority, who has written about “the missing voices in Welsh politics and the need for diverse candidates for the Senedd election.”; and Victoria Holland a councillor for Pontlliw on Swansea Council.

A new system changes how votes count

The 2026 election will be the first under a new proportional voting system. Voters will no longer choose an individual candidate, but instead cast their ballot for a party. Each party’s candidates are then elected in the order they appear on the ranked list, depending on how many seats that party wins.

That means in Gŵyr Abertawe, a vote for Labour will first count towards electing Mike Hedges. If Labour secures enough support for a second seat, Rob Stewart would follow. Candidates further down the list would only enter the Senedd if Labour’s share of the vote is high enough to win additional seats.

Polls suggest two Labour seats

The latest Senedd polling, reported by Swansea Bay News in October, projected that in Gŵyr Abertawe Reform UK would win three of the six seats, Labour two, and Plaid Cymru one.

If that projection holds, it would mean Hedges and Stewart are the only Labour candidates elected in the constituency, underlining the significance of Stewart’s second‑place ranking.

Rivals already in the race

Other parties have also begun setting out their lead candidates. The Welsh Conservatives have named Tom Giffard MS as their top candidate, while the Green Party has selected Swansea councillor Chris Evans. The Liberal Democrats have announced Will Thomas as their lead candidate for Swansea and Neath.

Together, these announcements mean the contest in Gŵyr Abertawe is already taking shape, with party leaders and councillors positioning themselves for the first election under the new system.

What happens next

Labour’s rankings remain provisional until endorsed by the party’s Welsh Executive Committee. Once confirmed, the lists will determine the order in which candidates are elected, depending on the party’s share of the vote.

For voters in Swansea and Gower, the change means the focus will be less on individual personalities and more on how each party performs overall.

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#CllrRebeccaFogarty #CllrRobStewart #CllrRobertFrancisDavies #CllrVictoriaHolland #Gower #GŵyrAbertawe #JulieJamesMS #KembaHadawayMorgan #MikeHedgesMS #PatienceBentu #RebeccaFrancisDavies #SaraFaye #SeneddElections2026 #Swansea #SwanseaWest #WelshLabour

Gower Society denies involvement after claims in Rhossili pony dispute

Morgan, who runs Rhossili Sunflowers and Gower Fresh Christmas Trees, had posted that the Trust’s letter to farmer Nicky Beynon — giving him until 1 December to find a new home for the horses — followed pressure from “some residents and the Gower Society.” His comments fuelled speculation online and in the community.

National Trust: safety and numbers are the issue

In a statement to Swansea Bay News earlier this week, the National Trust Cymru said its action followed complaints about a stallion within the herd, which raised public safety concerns.

The Trust also confirmed it is reviewing the number of horses grazing on the common, which it believes exceeds the agreed limit under the commoner’s rights.

“Our priority is to ensure the safety of visitors, the welfare of the grazing animals and the ecological health of Rhossili,” a spokesperson said, adding that discussions with the owner were ongoing to “further understand the number that can remain on the common.”

“Nothing to do with us”

In its own statement, the Gower Society said:

“We are aware of rumours circulating that The Gower Society are being implicated in the issue of Gower ponies on Rhossili.

We would like it known that this is a matter between the National Trust and the owner of the ponies and nothing to do with the Gower Society in any way.”

The group, which works to preserve the peninsula’s landscape and heritage, said it wanted to set the record straight to avoid further misinformation.

Farmer says “zero communication”

In a fresh social media post, Robert Morgan said farmer Nicky Beynon wanted to thank the community for their “overwhelming support” and confirmed he has a meeting scheduled with the National Trust’s Alan Kearsley on Monday.

Morgan claimed there had been “zero communication” from the Trust before last week’s letter, which he said simply ordered the horses out by December unless proven otherwise, and demanded the stallion be removed immediately.

He added that other farmers were facing similar challenges, but welcomed that “at least we’ve been heard for once.”

Spotlight remains on National Trust decision

The Society’s denial leaves the focus firmly on the National Trust, which continues to defend its stance on safety, animal welfare and land management.

Campaigners, however, argue the ponies are an iconic part of Rhossili’s landscape and play a vital role in grazing vegetation, keeping paths open and supporting biodiversity.

They say they will continue pressing for a solution that allows the animals to remain.

#featured #Gower #GowerPonies #horses #NationalTrust

Gower construction site raided in UK’s largest crackdown on illegal working

A quiet Gower site, an unexpected raid

Seven Chinese nationals were arrested at the site on 14 October, according to figures released by the UK government this week.

The visit formed part of Operation Sterling, a year-long enforcement campaign targeting sectors such as construction, takeaways, beauty salons, and delivery services.

Arrests surge as enforcement ramps up

The Home Office said more than 8,000 illegal migrants were arrested between October 2024 and September 2025, following 11,000 enforcement visits across the UK. In Wales, there were 590 arrests and over 1,100 site visits, marking a near doubling of activity compared to the previous year.

Civil Penalty Referral Notices were issued to the Gower site, meaning the company could face fines of up to £60,000 per illegal worker if found liable.

Government targets gig economy loophole

The crackdown coincides with new legislation expanding right to work checks to include gig economy platforms and subcontracted workers.

Previously, only employers with formal contracts were required to verify immigration status. The Home Office said the changes would close a loophole and make it harder for illegal workers to find employment in casual or temporary roles.

Under the new rules, employers who fail to carry out checks could face up to five years in prison, alongside financial penalties and potential business closure.

Digital ID system on the horizon

The government also announced plans to introduce a mandatory digital ID system by the end of the current Parliament. The system would be used to verify a person’s right to work and is intended to reduce the use of forged documents.

The Home Office said the digital checks would help identify rogue employers and make enforcement more consistent across sectors.

Local businesses urged to prepare

The Gower arrests were part of a broader enforcement effort in Wales. Immigration officers also visited Star Barbers in Porthmadog, where three people were arrested, and warehouses in Caldicot, where eight arrests were made.

The measures form part of the government’s wider strategy to reduce incentives for illegal migration, including efforts to disrupt smuggling gangs and deter small boat crossings.

A six-week consultation on the new right to work rules is now open, with workshops planned for businesses and industry groups.

#construction #Gower #HomeOffice #IllegalImmigrants #illegalWorkers #immigration #UKGovernment

Sun going down at Worms Head.
#wormshead #sunset #landscape #gower #Wales

Rhossili Bay, Gower.
Can't really say anything
#gower #rhossili #wales #landscape #epic

Outcry as National Trust orders removal of Rhossili’s iconic cliff horses

A December deadline that shocked the community

According to Robert Morgan, who runs Rhossili Sunflowers and Gower Fresh Christmas Trees, a letter was sent last week giving farmer Nicky Beynon until 1 December to find a new home for the horses.

Morgan said the decision followed pressure from some residents and the Gower Society, despite widespread local support for keeping the animals where they are.

The herd has been part of Rhossili’s landscape for decades, once cared for by the late Ernie Beynon, who tended the horses across Gower until his death aged 94. Supporters say the animals are not only a much‑loved sight for visitors but also play a vital role in grazing vegetation, keeping paths open, and supporting biodiversity.

Memories, fears and calls for action

The Facebook post by Rhossili Sunflowers has drawn thousands of responses, with many locals and visitors sharing memories and concerns.

• “This is awful, it’s been their home for years and years… May I suggest a petition to show the National Trust of the hundreds of people who still think the horses should stay on the cliffs of Rhossili. I would happily sign it,” wrote Mia Lizzie.
• Michael Macintosh admitted he worries about safety: “While I love the horses there, it fills me with fear every time I see them roaming down the cliff paths and edges… It’s definitely not fair forcing them off the land but would absolutely love the edge to be fenced for them to be that little bit safer.”
• Visitors from abroad also shared their affection. Andrea Kreft, from Germany, recalled: “Forty years ago we spent our honeymoon in Gower… we woke up to the sound of grazing ponies around our tent. Now our grandchildren have seen them too. If there will be a petition, I’ll sign.”
• Others spoke of lifelong ties. Hilary Stephenson said: “I grew up in Llangennith 40 plus years ago. The ponies grazing across Llanmadoc and Rhossili were part of the landscape. The Beynons have known and worked this land for so many years. It is such a shame.”
• Laura Cotton suggested conservation grazing may be at the heart of the issue: “Perhaps the NT feel they are overstocked. Be interested to hear their reasons.”
• Rebecca Tilly Rose added: “Incredibly sad decision and one I feel has been made without any thought to the ponies… They brought such joy to us this summer.”
• Lesley Hilliard described how seeing ponies on Gower as a child inspired a lifelong love of Welsh ponies: “Please don’t take these ponies off the common.”
• And Monica Jane McCarthy speculated safety concerns may be driving the move: “Gotta be because of tourists approaching them when being told not to… They’ve lost horses over the edge due to this, so it probably is for their own safety.”

Councillors step in to show support

Reform UK councillor Francesca O’Brien also posted about the issue, saying she and her father — Conservative councillor Richard Lewis — were “more than happy to support in any way we can.”

National Trust says safety and numbers are the issue

In a statement to Swansea Bay News, a National Trust Cymru spokesperson said:

“Following complaints about a stallion, which is part of the herd of horses on the common, we have written to the commoner who owns the horse asking them to move it elsewhere due to public safety concerns.

We are also reviewing the number of horses currently grazing on the common, which we believe exceeds the agreed limit in the commoner’s rights to graze.

Our priority is to ensure the safety of visitors, the welfare of the grazing animals and the ecological health of Rhossili.”

The Trust added that it is engaging with the owner to “further understand the number that can remain on the common.”

A landscape shaped by ponies and people

While the National Trust owns the common land at Rhossili, the management and care of livestock is the responsibility of commoners, who each hold rights to graze a set number of animals.

The horses have long been a defining feature of the headland, but recent years have seen tensions over safety and welfare. Earlier this year, two horses died at Rhossili — one falling from the cliffs, another losing an unborn foal after eating dog waste — prompting warnings from farmers and the Trust about the risks posed by visitors and dogs.

#Commoners #featured #Gower #GowerPonies #horses #Rhossili

Pennard Castle on the #Gower, was once the home of a Gwrach y Rhibyn, a horrible hag-like creature with wings and savage talons. A foolish unbeliever boasted he'd spend a night among the ruins. He just about got out again - fearfully clawed, his clothes in shreds. Painting by Evan Walters #folklore

Haunted South West Wales: The spookiest spots to visit this Halloween

From ghostly gamekeepers to spectral actresses, South West Wales has no shortage of spine-tingling tales. A new study by Verdant Leisure ranks Carmarthenshire and Swansea among the most haunted counties in Wales — but Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire and Bridgend have their own chilling legends to share.

As Halloween approaches, here’s your guide to the most haunted places in our patch — and the stories that still echo through them.

👻 Top 5 Haunted Spots in South West Wales

• Newton House, Carmarthenshire – National Trust mansion with multiple spirits, featured on Most Haunted
• Margam Castle, Neath Port Talbot – Haunted by a white lady, ghostly children and a furious gamekeeper
• Swansea Grand Theatre – Home to “Jenny,” a ghostly actress linked to the Titanic
• Carew Castle, Pembrokeshire – Haunted by Princess Nest, with sightings of a woman in white
• Ogmore Castle, Bridgend – Linked to ghostly knights and riverside apparitions

Carmarthenshire: Newton House and the Ghosts of Pembrey

Carmarthenshire ranks second in Wales for paranormal activity — and it’s easy to see why. At the heart of its haunted reputation is Newton House, a grand National Trust property in Llandeilo. Twice featured on Most Haunted, it’s said to host multiple spirits, including a woman seen drifting through corridors and a man whose footsteps echo in empty rooms. The house’s long history and isolated setting make it a magnet for ghost hunters.

But the real chills lie deeper in the woods. Pembrey Forest, near Llanelli, has terrified locals for generations. Tales speak of the “little hatchet men of Pembrey” — lantern-carrying figures who lured ships onto the rocks before slaughtering survivors and stealing their cargo. During the 19th century, gunpowder and dynamite were produced here, and in WWII, damaged planes often crashed nearby trying to reach the RAF airfield. Today, ghostly figures are said to roam the dunes and shoreline — from cursed pilots to phantom sailors aboard ghost ships.

Whether you’re chasing folklore or just looking for seasonal fun, Carmarthenshire delivers. Paranormal investigations run year-round in Pembrey Forest, but for something gentler, Pembrey Country Park’s Pumpkin Trail offers a family-friendly way to explore the area’s darker side.

🎃 Halloween Event – Carmarthenshire

Pumpkin Trail at Pembrey Country Park
A gentle walk through the woods with spooky surprises for all ages.
Event details

Swansea: Jenny of the Grand and Castle Shadows

Swansea ranks fourth in Wales for paranormal activity — and its ghost stories are as theatrical as they are chilling. The most famous is “Jenny,” said to haunt the Swansea Grand Theatre. Legend has it she was an actress who performed there shortly before boarding the Titanic. Her presence is still felt backstage, with unexplained footsteps and flickering lights reported by staff. Actor Owen Straton retells her story in a haunting reading available on YouTube.

Beyond the stage, Swansea’s castles offer plenty for horror fans. Oystermouth Castle leans into its haunted past with ghost tours and tales of medieval spirits, while Swansea Castle, tucked into the city centre, is part of the “Legendary Castles Trail.” Further west, Oxwich Castle sits above the bay on the Gower Peninsula — a crumbling Tudor ruin steeped in shadow and folklore, perfect for windswept Halloween walks.

Whether you’re chasing ghosts or just dressing up, Swansea’s Halloween calendar delivers. The city’s annual Spooks in the City event returns with a new monster mash-up of street theatre, parades and family fun.

🎃 Halloween Event – Swansea

Spooks in the City
A monster mash-up of street theatre, parades and family fun across the city centre.
Event details

Neath Port Talbot: Margam’s Ghostly Gamekeeper and Abbey Shadows

Neath Port Talbot may not be ranked in the study, but its haunted history runs deep. Margam Castle is widely considered one of the most haunted buildings in Britain. Visitors have reported sightings of a white lady, ghostly children, and the angry spirit of a gamekeeper who once worked on the estate. Paranormal investigators have captured unexplained sounds and shadows in the castle’s grand halls.

Nearby, Neath Abbey is said to be haunted by monks and a Victorian policeman who patrols Old Market Street. The Castle Hotel in Neath has its own cast of ghosts — including an Edwardian boy, a headless cavalier, and a festive spirit who appears only at Christmas. And then there’s the Cursed Wall of Port Talbot, a local legend claiming that if the wall falls, so does the town.

For those who want to experience the chills firsthand, Fright Nights at Margam Castle offer after-dark ghost hunts in one of Wales’ most storied buildings.

🎃 Halloween Event – Neath Port Talbot

Fright Nights at Margam Castle
Paranormal investigations and ghost hunts in one of Britain’s most haunted buildings.
Event details

Pembrokeshire: Princess Nest and the Creepy Mill

Pembrokeshire may not have made the top five, but its haunted history runs deep. Carew Castle is said to be haunted by Princess Nest, a noblewoman whose tragic story has echoed through the centuries. Visitors have reported cold spots, strange noises, and sightings of a woman in white near the battlements.

The county’s coastal paths and ancient churches also carry whispers of ghostly monks, shipwrecked sailors, and long-lost lovers. The windswept ruins and remote beaches make Pembrokeshire a perfect setting for eerie tales and Halloween walks.

This year, Carew Castle is hosting Creepy Mill, a haunted house experience that transforms part of the castle into a terrifying attraction for brave visitors.

🎃 Halloween Event – Pembrokeshire

Creepy Mill at Carew Castle
A haunted house experience inside one of Pembrokeshire’s most storied ruins.
Event details

Bridgend: Ogmore Castle and Creepy Cocktails

Bridgend’s ghost stories are quieter but no less eerie. Ogmore Castle, with its crumbling walls and riverside setting, has long been linked to spectral sightings. Locals speak of a ghostly knight who guards the ruins, and visitors have reported strange sounds after dark.

The county’s folklore also includes tales of haunted inns, shadowy figures in the woods, and mysterious lights near the coast. It’s a place where myths linger — and Halloween brings them to life.

For a grown-up twist, Maesteg Town Hall is hosting Monstrous Myths & Creepy Cocktails — an evening of storytelling, spirits (of both kinds), and seasonal surprises.

🎃 Halloween Event – Bridgend

Monstrous Myths & Creepy Cocktails
A grown-up evening of storytelling and seasonal spirits at Maesteg Town Hall.
Event details

🎃 Halloween Ideas Across the Region

• Book a ghost tour in Carmarthen or Neath
• Visit Newton House or Margam Castle for a haunted day out
• Explore Swansea’s haunted theatre or castle trails
• Share your own spooky sightings — South West Wales has plenty of stories still untold

#Bridgend #CarewCastle #CarewTidalMill #CastleHotelNeath #creepyCocktailsMaesteg #CreepyMillAtCarewCastle #FrightNightsAtMargamCastle #ghostHuntsMargamCastle #ghostStoriesFromWales #ghostToursSwansea #Gower #Halloween #HalloweenActivitiesForFamiliesWales #HalloweenEventsInWales2025 #HalloweenTrailsCarmarthenshire #hauntedCastlesPembrokeshire #hauntedForestsInWales #hauntedPlacesInSouthWestWales #hauntedRuinsWales #hauntedTheatreStoriesWales #Llandeilo #Llanelli #Maesteg #MaestegTownHall #MargamCastle #MonstrousMythsAndCreepyCocktails #Neath #NeathAbbey #NewtonHouse #OgmoreCastle #OxwichCastle #OystermouthCastle #paranormalInvestigationsWales #PembreyForest #Pembrokeshire #PortTalbot #PumpkinTrailAtPembreyCountryPark #scaryPlacesToVisitInWales #SpooksInTheCity #spookyCastlesInWales #Swansea #SwanseaCastle #SwanseaGrandTheatre

Popular Murton postmaster retires after 39 years of service

Third generation to serve the community

David Jenkins has retired after running Murton Post Office since 1986. He is the third generation of his family to serve as postmaster, following in the footsteps of his grandmother Annie Mary Jenkins, who first took on the role in 1936, and his aunt Lilly, who succeeded her in 1957.

The branch, on Manselfield Road, has been in the same location throughout that time. Originally a laundry house in the 1880s, the building later became a shop, tearoom and living accommodation before evolving into the Post Office and store that remains today.

Local roots and community service

Born and raised in neighbouring Bishopston, David has deep roots in the area, tracing his family history back to the 1600s in Bishopston and Pwll Du. Alongside his wife Helen, who managed the shop, he has been a familiar face to generations of customers.

During the pandemic, the couple kept the Post Office open by serving customers at the front door, ensuring the community could continue to access essential services safely.

“Time is now right to retire”

Reflecting on his retirement, David said:

“I have been the postmaster for more than 39 years, but I have had links to Murton Post Office and shop my entire life, helping my aunt from the age of eight.

People are very grateful that there is a Post Office here to send parcels and do their banking. The time is now right for Helen and I to retire. People are sad that we are stepping down, but pleased that there are new owners.”

Warm tributes

Post Office Area Manager Ryan Leonard praised David’s “long and loyal service,” adding:

“He really is at the heart of the community. Not many postmasters can say they are the third generation running a branch for nearly 87 years. David and Helen will be sorely missed, but they will continue to live locally.”

New chapter for Murton

The branch has now been taken over by new postmaster Rajmohan Puvanethiran, who assumed the role on 6 October. David and Helen will remain involved for a short time to support the handover.

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#Bishopston #Gower #ManselfieldRoad #Murton #MurtonPostOffice #PostOffice #postmaster #PwllDu #retirement