May 5) is the last chance for residents to have their say on new proposals to upgrade Abergavenny town centre and the gateways into it Proposals include improvements to upper Cross Street to make it more people friendly and people have until tonight to take part in the online survey Abergavenny Town Council is working with Monmouthshire Council to deliver on its aim of making the area more suited to the needs of a modern town A placemaking plan analyses the opportunities a place has to improve based on the specific characteristics of the town It also evaluates the current challenges and obstacles that place faces The current proposals include the refurbishment of Plas Gunter Mansion and potential work to improve the appearance of Gabb Square There is also a focus on movement in and out of the town centre with advanced signage from the Hardwick Roundabout into the heart of Abergavenny and Tudor Street earmarked for tree planting and speed reduction features Both authorities are also considering how to support repurposing unused premises including the now-sold Barclays bank and the former Richards’ building site Monmouthshire Council said that Abergavenny is an important part of its plans to modernise the county with the town acting as a major tourist destination on the edge of the Brecon Beacons “Abergavenny serves a large catchment population and is popular among visitors and tourists,” it said “But many of the changes that are proposed have the potential to reinforce the town’s status as a destination of choice “The placemaking plan proposals have been shared as part of a consultation,” it said “The decision to develop them further and seek funding for implementation will depend on the feedback received from the consultation.” whether people agree with the draft vision whether we have missed anything in terms of challenges and opportunities and whether the project proposals are the right way forward.” Both councils believe that the plan will help to ensure they have a common vision for the town centre “The Welsh Government requires a placemaking plan to be either in place or in development when local authorities apply for funding for town centre projects,” Monmouthshire County Council said “This requirement enables us to demonstrate the project is part of a strategic and coordinated approach.” To have your say go to https://www.letstalkmonmouthshire.co.uk/enhancing-abergavenny Comments Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us Further Links Owned or licensed to Tindle Newspapers Ltd | Independent Family-Owned Newspapers | Copyright & Trade Mark Notice & 2013 - 2025 For best viewing experience of this website Please enter a place name in the search bar After provisionally the warmest May Day on record in the UK higher than average temperatures will subside over the weekend Fine and settled under the influence of high pressure though eastern counties turning cloudier later in the afternoon Feeling warm in the sunshine with light winds though a little cooler in coastal communities with cloud clearing to leave a rather chilly night Another settled day bringing a mixture of cloudy skies and sunny spells with light winds and temperatures a little above the early-May average The remainder of the week will see high pressure dominating Dry across the vast majority of the UK with clear or sunny spells but also some patchy cloud Cloud will likely thicken across the far north and northwest during the weekend with some outbreaks of rain for a time There is also a small risk of some heavy showers in the far south or southwest high pressure will be dominant across the UK This will bring predominantly fine and dry weather for the majority of places Temperatures are likely to be slightly above normal for the time of year although there is a chance of some cold nights Fairly typical weather for the time of year is most likely through this period fine and dry weather is more likely to dominate although this will be interspersed with occasional spells of rain and showers with a risk of heavy rain and thunderstorms in places temperatures will most likely be near to or slightly above average AN Abergavenny man who claims he was forced to parachute from Tom Cruise’s private jet somewhere over the Atlantic "swears down" that as he was free falling from the skies he saw the face of Donald Trump in the clouds the adrenaline buzz of jumping near naked from a falling plane with Tom Cruise and the boys may have triggered some sort of psychotic episode,” admits semi-professional paranormal investigator Johnny Turnip it did seem like Trump was in the sky and viewing me from the Oval Office with some sort of weird crystal ball thing The whole thing only lasted a couple of minutes but he seemed to know exactly who I was and he was giving off strong Wizard of Oz vibes But mostly he reminded me of Ming the Merciless in Flash Gordon.” Turnip told the Chronicle that after being smuggled into America on Tom Cruise’s private jet in search of a mythical pot of fairy gold things took a turn for the worse when their jacuzzi party came to an abrupt end “We were partying in the bubbles when Tyke just appeared out of nowhere in his Top Gun flight suit He was also in that wild-eyed manic state he sometimes adopts in movies You could feel the plane falling fast and he started hurling these huge backpacks at us and screaming Abort!’ Just as Big Tony was muttering something about 'Finally feeling alright again.' and Big Tony were all naked except for our bathers Plus we were all on the wrong side of a couple bottles of brandy The last thing we felt like doing was jumping from a falling plane into the Atlantic with a Hollywood A-lister.” Turnip explained that as Cruise quickly hurried them through a tutorial on how to put the parachutes on and when to pull the handle to activate it he heard the Mission Impossible theme begin to ring out “I thought I was imagining it at first!” He explained “And then I noticed Tyke had a Bluetooth speaker strapped to his waist and that’s where the music was coming from “‘What the hell you playing at Tyke?’ I screamed as the brutal reality of the situation we were in began to dawn on me “‘It’s just a bit of mood music to get us galvanised and keep our peckers up!’ Said Tyke merrily I’m more of a Jason Bourne man myself.” Said Puerto Rico Paul mischievously ’The dude’s far more of a badass than Ethan Hunt “Choosing to ignore Paul’s petulant behaviour and concentrate on the crisis at hand Tyke took command of the situation like an old pro He walked in a no-nonsense style to the aircraft hatch “As we shuffled awkwardly toward him wearing nothing but our swimming costumes and parachutes he got us to form a circle around him as he put Van Halen's 'Jump' on his speaker thing "As we all looked down and he looked up and then on my signal pull the handle and it’ll all be good.’” ‘But what about the co-pilot?’ Tyke pulled open the hatch I am dangerous!’ at no one in particular and was gone Big Tony went to peer tentatively over the edge and was pushed hard in the back by Puerto Rico Paul “As we listened to the fat fella’s screams as he plummeted towards the ocean Paul just turned to me with his back to the hatch But I don’t think Paul McCartney is really my dad!’ And with that he fell backward and took me with him into the void!” Turnip told the Chronicle that as he soared through the air he noticed the plane rise again and was a bit confused but the sight of Big Tony puking as he fell through the Heavens and Tyke doing these weird gymnastic moves in the air distracted him “Puerto Rico Paul seemed to be having a great time though and was screaming at the clouds about finally being a bird I was more concerned about the ocean waiting patiently below and how cold “To distract myself from being torn to pieces by creatures of lesser intelligence I started looking around at the clouds and that’s when I noticed Donald Trump “I wasn’t just seeing a likeness of the President’s face in the clouds He was looking at me in that weird focused way of his that reminds me of a bulldog chewing a wasp “He then turned his head to someone who must have been at his side and said in that peculiar sing-song voice Limey son of a bitch needn’t think he can stroll in here and start empire building And this guy doesn’t look like he got any cards Gotta have the cards if you wanna play with the high-rollers!’” I heard a sycophantic voice say to the right of Trump’s cloud face You want me to send some of the boys around Get a little rough house with these fool Brits?’ Let’s keep our cards close and our enemies closer.' “‘But what about our leprechaun overlords?’ Said the other voice ‘They ordered us to take care of the fairy threat?’ “‘You let me worry about the shamrock boys!’ Said Trump ‘You gotta pull those strings if you’re gonna be a puppet master Gotta pull those strings and shake those puppets hard ‘Trump then did that sort of pouty expression he sometimes does and I could tell by the way his head was moving he was doing one of those unsettling dances of his This seemed to go on for an eternity and then he just cooed Now let’s go play some golf and make up some new policies!’ and I was snapped from my reverie by Tyke screaming or the impact of the ocean will break every single bone in your body!'" The Trials And Tribulations Of Johnny Turnip is available now on Amazon. Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us A full programme of VE Day celebrations in Abergavenny has been unveiled by Abergavenny Town Council, in partnership with the Royal British Legion and other local groups. Proceedings get underway at 9am with a proclamation read outside the Town Hall, with Royal British Legion standard, the Mayor of Abergavenny and Mace Bearer. This will be followed by the unveiling of a new commemorative bench at the War Memorial at the bottom of Frogmore Street at 10am. The 80th anniversary of VE Day also falls on the 110th Mons Day, with a wreath laying taking place at the War Memorial in memory of the men from the Monmouthshire Regiment who fell on May 8th 1915 when the third Monmouthshire Regiment, which fought in the Second Battle of Ypres, fought against German forces. This will take place at 11am. Between 2pm and 4pm there will be an afternoon tea at The Gathering, Tudor Street, which will be open to all and free to enter before a community evening at Abergavenny Market Hall with live music from A4B and Borough Band. The market will be open from 5pm with food vendors, displays from the local history society and a parade of veterans and cadets with the Standards. Celebrations will also be held across the county in Llanarth, where there will be children's activities and exhibition illustrating wartime life. Usk Town Council are also hosting celebrations with a firing of the canon at the castle while Monmouth will be hosting a public service and a VE Day Street Party in the Church Street Quarter on Sunday May 11. Nearby Blaenavon will also be hosting a week of special events with a service at Blaenavon Cenotaph on Bank Holiday Monday and a ticketed Victory Ball from 7:30pm on Saturday May 10 at Blaenavon Workmen’s Hall. Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us Enhancing Abergavenny – Time to have your say in partnership with Abergavenny Town Council is seeking your views on the Abergavenny Placemaking Plan The council is committed to ensuring that town centres remain vibrant and welcoming places that meet the needs of the local communities The proposed placemaking plan for Abergavenny will: you can view and provide feedback on the proposed plans through the council’s engagement platform voluntary organisation or someone interested in the future of Abergavenny town centre MCC is hosting two drop-in sessions at 7 Mill Street Drop in and view the plans and ask officers your questions Plans will also be displayed at the former Timothy Oulton Store until Sunday Paper surveys will be available to download or collect from Abergavenny Tourist Information or the Town Council office which are both in the Market Hall building To find out more, view the plans and take part in the survey, visit www.letstalkmonmouthshire.co.uk/enhancing-abergavenny Monmouthshire County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development said: “Your feedback is vital as we develop the placemaking plan for Abergavenny The proposals will further enhance Abergavenny as a local destination for residents and visitors alike further improving the look and feel of the town centre Working with Abergavenny Town Council on these plans has been a rewarding experience and we look forward to hearing your views.” who chairs the Abergavenny Place Making Steering group urged everyone to come along to the consultations “This is a chance for everyone to let the councils know how you want your town to develop This project is funded by Monmouthshire County Council Abergavenny Town Council and the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns Programme Placemaking is a comprehensive approach to planning and development It ensures any changes or investments made in the town centre meet immediate needs and contribute to the community’s long-term well-being To find out more about the placemaking plans and how you can get involved email MCCRegeneration@monmouthshire.gov.uk Privacy Notice © Copyright 2025 Monmouthshire County Council Staff Login Hiker Lorraine Flower captured this footage of a large adder while out walking on the Blorenge mountain The sighting comes two days after South Wales Police issued a warning following increased sightings of adders in Port Eynon and near Worm's Head in Gower urging dog owners to keep their pets on leads Adders are most active from spring to October and pose a particular risk to dogs between April and July ShareSaveMan recalls moment car turned into 'ball of flames'Tony Johnson pulled a driver from a burning car after a crash with two vehicles in Bodfari. 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What's in the US-Ukraine resources deal 1:23Kamala Harris hits out at Trump in first major speech since losing election 00:01:18Kamala Harris hits out at Trump in first major speech since losing election 1:18Watch: Moment Columbia student Mohsen Mahdawi is released 00:00:46Watch: Moment Columbia student Mohsen Mahdawi is released A striking Welsh peninsula has been named the ‘best place to live in Wales’ in 2025 in the annual Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide The Sunday Times’ expert judges visited locations across the UK assessing factors from schools to transport as well as access to green spaces and the health of the high street – with the Welsh winner announced as Gower Wales offers the chance to live near some of the UK’s most inspiring countryside Almost a fifth of the country is designated a national park “There’s a huge array of enviable locations landscapes and lifestyles on offer in an area that stretches all the way from the Severn Bridge to Anglesey via the hotspots of Pembrokeshire and Snowdonia “The centre of gravity — and the housing market — is Cardiff and the smartest suburbs such as Pontcanna and Llandaff For the judges, there was one clear winner – Gower Peninsula, Swansea which has snatched the coveted crown from last year’s winner, the charming Abergavenny They wrote: “From Oxwich Bay and Llanmadoc’s inspiring community shop to the smart enclaves in Langland and Caswell Bay this coastal countryside spot to the west of Swansea is brimming with entrepreneurial spirit “It is even home to Wales’s smallest cinema the newspaper wrote an in-depth feature Read more about The Gower Peninsula which Dylan Thomas called one of the “loveliest sea-coast stretches in the whole of Britain” You get every type of seaside — crashing waves brooding limestone cliffs and smart urban promenades — but also access to the city of Swansea (improving) and Mumbles (superior) “Langland and Caswell Bay are coastal enclaves with postcode bragging rights in buckets and spades — properties can fetch over £2 million — while Bishopston has convenience stores a good pub and a central location that makes it easy to get to wherever the surf is cranking.” “But it is in the wilder corners of the peninsula — among the northern salt marshes and the gorse-speckled moorland — where you will find pretty villages and hamlets bursting with cool creative and sustainable independent businesses Micki Schloessingk produces salt-glazed pieces at Bridge Pottery near Llanmadoc and its inspiring community shop There’s a renewable energy co-op and a community land trust looking to build affordable homes.” Read the full Gower feature here. Six other locations made the cut in the coveted list which is considered the most important The next mention went to trendy Cardiff district this northern suburb of Cardiff — 16 minutes from the centre by train — was a model garden village has great schools and has independent shops from zero-waste to dog-friendly cafés and an award-winning Indian Secondly is the ‘perennially popular’ Crickhowell Palmer and Davies wrote: “At the foot of the Brecon Beacons in spectacular scenery “The high street has everything you need to cover the everyday and the delightfully non-essential.” The judges wrote: “The Pembrokeshire National Park has a spectacular coast but it can get very busy in the holiday season “Drive 20 minutes inland to the foothills of the Preseli Mountains and this village has everything you need for a good rural life Another non-surprise on the list is the picturesque town of Penarth The judges wrote: “Thanks to its proximity to Cardiff it is a regular fixture in the Best Places to Live annual guide the area’s retail scene ranges from basics to boutiques and the food scene is seriously hot.” With the Times journalists praising the Powys location They shared: “Expect the unexpected in Presteigne; this mid-Wales market town is far from ordinary Where else is the pharmacist also a fire-eater and everyone turns out for an annual wheelbarrow race “This is a special community where volunteer drivers are on hand to take people for long-distance hospital visits.” Palmer and Davies shared: “There’s no train station this side of Wrexham a 20-mile stretch of rugged and rolling hills just across the English border editorial projects director and Best Places to Live editor said previously: “This guide is a celebration of towns cities and villages that are each a fantastic place to live “These are all places where you can feel grounded as well as upwardly mobile: they have a mature sense of community supportive high streets and an eye to the future “What makes our guide unique is that we actually visit all the places we choose and talk to locals to find out what life is really like there.” “That means we can see what people really love about the places they live That might be fast commutes and high-achieving schools but also clean water to swim in the possibility of earning a living and being part of a friendly community though high house prices are no barrier to inclusion – as long as they provide value for money “Different people may be looking for different things but what all our best places have in common is that people love living in them and are proud to call them home.” Read the article in full here, along with the in-depth feature on the Gower here Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value" Like all these Sunday Times pieces it screams “English people please come and see the lovely beaches BBC’s Homes under the Hammer and my all time favourite(not) All compounding the problem of affordable housing for local people then it’s better some English people with at least some work in them buy the houses than the houses stand empty and dilapidate Connect with Nation.Cymru on Facebook and Twitter If you would like to donate to help keep Nation.Cymru running then you just need to click on the box below it will open a pop up window that will allow you to pay using your credit / debit card or paypal Enter your email address to receive instant notifications of new articles All information provided to Nation.Cymru will be handled sensitively and within the boundaries of the Data Protection Act 2018 In 2017 Nation.Cymru was launched after raising £5000 from a crowdfunding campaign Today it is one of the fastest growing news sites in the UK attracting over 1.5 million visitors a month We are not backed by billionaire owners or hidden behind a paywall but we depend on our readers' support to continue our work If everyone who visited the site over the course of a month donated at least £1 we would have enough funding for the next eight years To guarantee our future please consider making a donation today. Sight Cymru is hosting a free training session in Abergavenny to help businesses improve their accessibility supporting the Mayor's mission for inclusivity Sight Cymru will be hosting a training event at The Kings Arms later this month, with the aim of educating businesses in the town about accessibility for their users and staff Abergavenny Town Council has been working with Sight Cymru and local businesses over the last year with the vision of making the town easier to navigate with projects including 3D mapping of the town centre and making sure accessibility needs are met within the Town Hall Cllr Chris Holland’s flagship policy during his year as Mayor has been to make Abergavenny as accessible as possible for everyone and as the council looks to fulfil the objective near the end of Cllr Holland’s year of office it has taken this opportunity to provide further education for the businesses which the community and visitors rely upon daily “It is my mission to help raise as much awareness as possible around what we can do to make our beautiful town accessible to everyone,” the Mayor said I am delighted that Sight Cymru are able to offer this training for free to businesses that want to engage and improve their accessibility for their users and patrons.” Improving accessibility has long been an ambition across the whole town with various agencies working to improve connectivity and suitable facilities to meet the requirements some people may need At the train station, a new footbridge and lifts are nearing completion to enable residents and visitors to use the station hassle-free More disabled parking spaces and wider aisles in the market hall have also been introduced in recent years The training session on Monday May 19th is free to attend and begins at 10:30am where businesses can learn about how they can be more sight aware Bookings are being welcomed via email at [email protected]. Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us An Abergavenny retail worker praised police following the arrest in the Book-ish shop robbery on Frogmore Street. A 50-year-old man has been bailed pending further enquiries. but praised the actions of police officers in the aftermath Gwent Police confirmed that they have made an arrest since the robbery of the Book-ish store last week “Officers received a call at roughly 4.45pm on Saturday reporting a burglary where cash had been taken,” a spokesperson said “A 50-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of burglary he has been bailed pending further enquiries.” The employee who was on shift at the time of the incident wanted to remain anonymous for the purpose of this article but told us about the ordeal that unfolded on the weekend “I felt uncomfortable as soon as he came in,” they said Then he asked for some water for the second time so I went into the kitchen and when I came back out “I didn’t want to aggravate the situation or confront the thief because there were still customers in the shop The shop has thanked the police for being professional on the day and for making an early arrest which according to the employee we spoke to resulted in the safe return of the stolen cash to the store Local shopkeepers and independent businesses remain vigilant in the face of rising numbers of offences on the high street taking place, with almost 5,000 shoplifting offences registered last year alone in Gwent. Police are also investigating a burglary which took place earlier this month at Llanfoist allotments, where a petrol strimmer was stolen from a shed. The Book-ish staff member who spoke to the Chronicle said that despite the positive and vibrant community in the town, it is important to recognise that Abergavenny is not immune to these sorts of incidents. “Abergavenny is a lovely community as a whole and everybody is really nice. That is what makes it the biggest shock that something like this could happen.” “You hear stories of shops having their stock and their earnings stolen in other places, but I didn’t think I would have a first-hand experience.” “I do think there needs to be more awareness of this sort of crime and some more information on what business owners and employees can do to protect themselves in the event that this happens again.” Book-ish has already installed CCTV at the premises to help its staff and customers feel safer, and in a town which relies on its independent businesses, the team at the much-loved book shop urge us to do all we can to protect them. “On a personal level, it has made me more vulnerable,” the team member told us. “But I hope I can use my experience to raise awareness for those with a similar job to me that they share their experiences and there can be a positive outcome.” Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us THERE was a whirlwind start to the Ivor Jones Cup semi-final between Monmouth Druids and Abergavenny Quins on Thursday evening, with the hosts racing into a 17-11 lead courtesy of tries from Ollie Park, Liam Churches and Ajay Hodges with Kevin Murphy converting one, reports PETE WALTERS. But Quins, on the scoreboard through an Owen Phillips try and two Tom Jones’ penalties, hit back as wing Adam Binmore went down the left and cut inside for a try for an 18-17 half-time advantage. A good crowd exceeded a normal 1st XV attendance with the support for both sides very apparent. Quins were fired up at the restart and quickly extended the lead to 23-17 by again spreading the ball wide to the left for Tom Andrews to go over. Monmouth made their best gains by speedy long carries from the likes of Park and Joe Impey, and having then moved play to within 10m of the line, a stolen line-out set Jack Churches on an unstoppable charge to again take the lead (24-23). Abergavenny ran the ball back from the restart and were all but certain of scoring when they knocked on. Play see-sawed dramatically with an exchange of successful penalty kicks, and although sections of the crowd questioned some decisions, it was clear the referee was doing his best to play it as he saw it. The touch judge helped persuade him to change the second penalty decision, awarding Monmouth a simple shot in front of the posts instead, to move the scores to 27-26. But when Quins edged in front 29-27 through Jones’ boot, it seemed all was over as the final whistle approached. That is until deep in extra time, Monmouth secured another penalty which Harley Thorpe converted with the final kick to seal a 30-29 win. Crickhowell supply Monmouth’s opponents in the final at Pontypool United on Saturday, May 19, after also squeezing home 27-26 at Abersychan. Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us Monmouthshire County Council anticipates an imminent update on the delayed Abergavenny pedestrian bridge across the river Usk, pending final funding approval. A “POSITIVE update” on plans for a new pedestrian bridge across the river Usk in Abergavenny is expected soon, according to Monmouthshire County Council Planning permission for the bridge connecting the town and Llanfoist was approved in October 2018 and work to construct footpaths leading to the proposed bridge started by Monmouthshire County Council in September 2023. Although at the point it was anticipated the crossing would be completed by December 2024 progress has stalled and there is, as yet, no crossing in place, prompting Conservative councillor for Llanfoist and Govilon, Tomos Davies, to ask for an update. Speaking at the council’s April meeting, Councillor Sara Burch, the council’s Labour cabinet member for rural affairs and tourism said: “It’s been subject to regulatory delays and to technical issues and delivering that new route across the fast-flowing river, through an SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest), a historic landscape was never going to be easy. “I’m hopeful that all of those issues have been resolved and that we are ready to proceed with the project subject to receiving final confirmation of the second tranch of funding from Welsh Government. “So, I am afraid my response has to be watch this space. We are expecting an imminent announcement from the cabinet secretary for transport and North Wales Ken Skates and as a number of us in this room have had the opportunity to bend his ear I hope we will have an announcement soon.” A spokesman for Monmouthshire County Council said: “We are set to provide a positive update on the scheme in the near future and remain committed to delivering this scheme.” Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us Monmouthshire County Council have revealed a placemaking plan aiming to revitalize Abergavenny's town centre The Abergavenny Placemaking Plan has been unveiled to the public with residents voicing their feedback in person on the proposals to improve the town centre Abergavenny Town Council is working with Monmouthshire County Council to deliver on its aim of making the area more suited to the needs of a modern town Monmouthshire County Council said that Abergavenny is an important part of its plans to modernise the county with the town acting as a major tourist destination on the edge of Bannau Brycheiniog “But many of the changes that are proposed have the potential to reinforce the town’s status as a destination of choice.” The county council is also keen to stress the importance of public feedback and how it will form any potential development of the plan and its implementation “It will establish a mutual understanding of the challenges and opportunities we face allowing us to work together towards the same objectives in implementing placemaking projects in the town centre.” Placemaking plans are also important to display the sorts of ideas and visions that local authorities have to different levels of government and other political parties They are also a requirement for funding applications in the event that work is undertaken “The Welsh Government requires a placemaking plan to be either in place or in development when local authorities apply for funding for town centre projects,” Monmouthshire County Council said. The consultation is open until Monday, May 5 online, with plans on display at the former Timothy Oulton store until Sunday, April 27. Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us Newport HSOB 17 Aberagavenny RFC 1st XV 43 ABERGAVENNY 1st XV travelled to Newport High School Old Boys for the final fixture of the 2024-25 season, and having secured a few notable victories recently, they were determined to put in a strong performance to conclude a productive season, reports COLIN EVANS. The eighth-placed visitors had the better of the opening exchanges against the fourth-placed hosts, dominating possession and territory and Rhys Ferguson soon opened the scoring with a well-struck penalty. Abergavenny continued to pressurise the Newport defence, spreading the ball effectively to give Tom Dudman and Tom Folley opportunities to test their opposite wingers. The score was further extended when Rob Dudley-Jones went over for the opening try following a break in mid-field from Dayle Price, converted by Ferguson to make it 10-0. Newport then had a period of pressure in the Abergavenny half, with the visitors defending stalwartly, as they have all season, to keep their line intact. But just before half-time, the hosts scored in the corner to close it to 10-5 going into the break. Abergavenny came out of the blocks firing in the second half though, Adam Binmore taking a great high catch and counter-attacking at pace to glide through the defence and link up with Robbie Lewis, who powered over for their second try, converted by Ferguson (17-5). They now had their tails up and were attacking from their own half, Dudman making a clean break in mid-field to link with Josh Guy who crossed for their third try (22-5). A penalty kick on half-way then secured a line-out in the Newport 22, and the rolling maul took play near the line before Dudley-Jones drove his way over for another try, converted by Ferguson (29-5). Another counter-attack the full length of the field with forwards and backs passing and offloading then resulted in Ferguson going over and then converting, extending the lead to 36-5. Newport then had a period of pressure, running in two tries before Dudman rounded off Abergavenny’s scoring with a well-taken try, again converted by Ferguson. It proved a very satisfactory end to the season, winning 43-17 to jump two places to finish sixth in WRU East One. And they could be playing local rivals Brynmawr again next season, whose Championship East future is hanging in the balance despite a final 27-19 win at home to mid-table Talywain on Saturday. They sit three points above the drop zone back to East One, and now have to hope that Cambrian Welfare with two games to play and Ynysddu with one don’t overhaul them. But Aber will be playing Blaenavon, who secured safety on Thursday night in their final game with a 27-19 home win over Dowlais, finishing seventh. Nantyglo secured a 32-19 home win over already-promoted Newport Saracens to finish third just six points adrift of the E3 promotion slots. But fifth-placed Crickhowell were crushed 76-5 at E4 divisional champions Gwernyfed and will want to finish on a brighter note at home to Pontllanfraith on Saturday (May 3). Forgeside have been relegated from E4 though, the bottom side losing 45-0 at Whitehead having been humbled 104-0 the previous week by champions Gwernyfed. Hopefully, there will be some crumbs of comfort in their final game at home to Crumlin this weekend. Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us A couple from Abergavenny who shared indecent photographs of a girl have been described by a Judge as having a “warped sexual interest in young woman.” and forwarded to her boyfriend Vernon Jones who edited some of them before returning them to his partner The pair who are no longer in a relationship appeared at Newport Crown Court where House and distributing an indecent photograph/pseudo-photograph of a child pleaded guilty to possessing and distributing an indecent photograph/pseudo-photograph of a child Prosecutor Marian Lewis told the court that the images of a girl “I’ve read a pre-sentence report in each of your cases and each of you in different ways provides either an implausible or convoluted explanation for your offending or “You have a warped sexual interest in young women.” Hilary Roberts told the court his client had been described as “vulnerable” and was suffering from anxiety and depression that required medication Sol Hartley representing Jones pleaded that There is no evidence he is attracted to young children.” He also asked that the delay of four years in bringing the case to sentence be taken into consideration by the Judge but Judge Williams suspended the sentence for two years She was also ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work undertake a rehabilitation activity requirement for 20 days As well as a £500 fine and a £128 victim surcharge he must complete a 30-day rehabilitation activity requirement Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us A former furniture store in Abergavenny is set to become a vibrant garden centre and food hall, pending consent from Cadw. PLANNERS have given the go-ahead for a former furniture store to be converted to a garden centre and food hall. However Welsh historic buildings body Cadw, which had already raised concerns two refrigerated containers planned for a service yard would be partly inside the boundary of Abergavenny Castle historic park and gardens, still has to give scheduled monument consent. South Wales-based chain Pugh’s wants to open its second Garden Kitchen by Pugh’s store at the former Timothy Oulton Outlet furniture and homeware store, at 7 to 9 Mill Street, which is considered a gateway to the town centre and is within the Abergavenny conservation area. Timothy Oulton closed in January and the buildings, at the turning of Mill Street and Cross Street, were the Eric Davies furniture shop for many years. Monmouthshire County Council’s planning department has approved the change of use from retail to mixed retail including food and drink and for outside seating as well as associated works and new storage buildings. Pugh’s has said it’s operated the food and retail concept at its Rogerstone branch, near Newport, since 2021 and as well as a garden centre features a deli counter and food hall with a 60-seat restaurant. Activities such as workshops could also be held at the Abergavenny shop. Planning officer Kate Bingham said, in a report, the plans support the vibrancy and viability of the town centre and central shopping area: “The application for change of use is welcomed in terms of place making as it will create a destination venue at this end of Cross Street, contributing to the vitality and vibrancy of the town centre and conservation area. “The buildings are not listed but are within Abergavenny conservation area. The proposal is considered to retain the historic character of the building and makes minimal external alterations. It will bring a vacant unit back into use contributing to the vibrancy of the street scene.” The current service yard is described as distracting from the conservation area and plans to improve it are welcomed. The opening hours applied for, from 7am to 11pm, are consistent with town centre expectations, though it isn’t anticipated to typically open for those hours but could for events such as the Abergavenny Food Festival. The application was supported by the Abergavenny and District Civic Society which said it hopes Cadw and the council will “make every effort to resolve any impediments to approval”. According to the planning application the store could employ up to 30 full-time equivalent staff. Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us A 27-year-old Abergavenny woman has been arrested on suspicion of assault and violent disorder following an incident in Cross Street. Police were called to Cross Street, Abergavenny on Saturday (March 15) evening after receiving reports of assault. A police spokesperson told the Chronicle, “Officers attended Cross Street alongside paramedics from the Welsh Ambulance Service; a man and a woman were taken to hospital for treatment. “A 27-year-old woman from Abergavenny has since been arrested on suspicion of section 18 assault (grievous bodily harm with intent), actual bodily harm (ABH), and violent disorder. She has been released on conditional bail.” If you have any information that could help, please contact us via our website, 101, or direct message us on social media quoting 2500082866. You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us Police are appealing for information on missing Rebecca McPhail and was wearing black leggings and a purple jumper Police are searching for a missing teenager from Abergavenny was last seen at roughly 10.30pm on Saturday She is described as being of slim build with long ginger hair which she usually wears down Rebecca was last known to be wearing black leggings and a purple jumper The teenager has links to Cwmbran, and anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to call Gwent Police on 101 quoting log 2500116531 Alternatively, the police can be contacted via social media by sending a direct message to Gwent Police’s Facebook or X profiles. Rebecca is urged to confirm that she is safe and well. Tel: 01600 712142[email protected]Follow us Further Links PLANS for a garden centre and food hall in Abergavenny town centre have been given the go-ahead by Monmouthshire County Council. The plans will see South Wales-based chain Pugh’s opening its second Garden Kitchen by Pugh’s store at a the former Eric Davies furniture shop Cross Street, part of which backs on to Abergavenny Castle grounds and lie within the town’s conservation area. The firm has said it will bring the Timothy Oulton Outlet furniture and homeware store, at 7 to 9 Mill Street, back into use after it closed in January and could employ up to 30 full-time equivalent staff. Opening hours from 7am to 11pm have been applied for though it isn’t intended to open for all these hours but could for special events such as during the Abergavenny Food Festival. Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us Please note that demolition work has now commenced at Frogmore Street The council’s Building Control and Heritage teams are working with the site owner to minimise disruption to the local community Following completing the remedial work to make Frogmore Street safe after the fire on Sunday Monmouthshire County Council can confirm that Frogmore Street is now open for pedestrians.  Boarding has been placed along the areas of the street affected by the fire.  We encourage all residents and visitors to adhere to these restrictions for safety purposes.  Please note all vehicle-restricted access remains in place as stated below. Due to the changes in Frogmore Street and surrounding areas A temporary taxi rank has been placed at the bottom of Frogmore Street on the right-hand side of the Cenotaph.  we are implementing further safety measures in the area Please find details of the work that will be undertaken below *The above information is subject to change Road closures and restricted pedestrian access will remain in place until further notice and all necessary works to make safe are completed. All vehicles, pedestrians, and businesses should follow the current access arrangements below. Information will be updated once the following work has been completed Thank you to everyone for their continued support and understanding.  Following the fire in Frogmore Street Monmouthshire County Council has implemented road closures in the area to support the ongoing multi-agency response.  Due to an ongoing investigation by Gwent Police and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service these road closures will remain in effect until further notice due to safety concerns for the public.  Currently, the road closures are as follows: Changes to the road closures will be updated as investigations are concluded and we’ll update the public via our website and social media channels.  Monmouthshire County Council submits plans to renovate Abergavenny's historic market hall A planning application has been submitted and validated for works to begin on Abergavenny’s historic market hall new doors and frames and the widening of doorways heating will also be provided to the main market hall area should the application be approved The application, submitted by Monmouthshire County Council also mentions plans to refurbish the existing toilets for traders inside the market hall and the cafe toilets An impact statement has been made to support the application for proposed listed building consent which would be required to make some of the changes proposed in the plan “The client requested to look at ways of improving the existing toilet facilities currently in place for market traders and the market cafe,” it reads “The brief asked for ways of improving heating to serve the market hall as the area can be very clod in winter months due to lack of thermal facility to the building and in and out use of the market hall doors.” Previous work to have taken place in the building includes the refurbishment and adaptation of the Borough Theatre and public facilities provision on the first floor, such as the library, replacing the original one stop shop facility. Automatic doors were added to the entry and exit points in 2009, with high-level heating units to be installed above them as a part of the new proposals, with materials expected to be sourced from local supply. It has been suggested that further dialogue takes place before any work commences on the site, which first opened in 1870. A consultation is set to open later this month as all parties concerned look for a way to complete the work while maintaining the historic significance of the building. Choose from our four main types of funding We work with artists and organisations to reach as many people as we can And we research the ways we can protect and sustain creative activities in Wales John Macfarlane is regarded internationally as one of the leading designers of stage sets and costumes for Opera His many Opera designs include Peter Grimes A collection of his work is now published by Graffeg Books Please come and hear him talk about his art and craft FOR TICKETS – events@artshopandchapel.co.uk – 01873 852690/736430  Twitter Facebook Twitter Designed and developed by Hoffi using Drupal Daniel is one of a number of people living and working in Abergavenny who's borrowed an e-bike from Sustrans Cymru like a lot of people in Abergavenny and across Wales Being a professional storyteller meant that Daniel travelled around his local area to share traditional folk tales he’s been able to make use of an e-bike for his journeys Daniel has been able to travel sustainably and actively for his work but he’s also been able to explore more of the wild parts of Wales that he loves “I saw a poster on the window of the bike shop here in Abergavenny “I’ve absolutely loved using the e-bike because the Black Mountains are very close by "It can be hard to find somewhere to park and there's no bus service into the Black Mountains so the bike has enabled me to pedal up into those mountains and see places I've always wanted to see but have found inaccessible." Daniel has had a regular residency some 6-7 miles away from where he lives in Abergavenny and for the first time in 17 years he’s been able to travel there without using the car “I haven’t ever got there in any way other than by car I was seeing streams and houses as I travelled where Daniel shares traditional stories with children and young people visiting the Welsh countryside he’s also been able to get to other jobs thanks to the e-bike “I recently had a show at the Bear in Crickhowell “I’ve also cycled to the railway station on a number of occasions and then taken a train to Cwmbran or Newport or Cardiff.” Daniel has been able to use the e-bike for work meaning he can leave the car at home and save money on fuel one of the biggest positives has been the way that the e-bike has enabled him to explore more of his local area “What surprised me was that I’ve been able to access bits of the Black Mountains that I didn’t know existed “I did surprise myself on my very first trip by burning all the way through the battery “I then had to cycle all the way back without the aid of a battery from Llanthony which was a challenge because the frame of the bike – it was quite heavy borrowing an e-bike has had an impact on how he views travel “The big question is whether or not I can find a way to actually own an e-bike I would be thinking about cycling to the railway station leaving the bike or taking a bike with me and trying to make those journeys without using the car "And that would mean we could possibly consider getting rid of one of our two cars something my wife has wanted to do for a while." One of the challenges Daniel has faced with borrowing the e-bike has been where to lock it underlining the need for greater cycling infrastructure “Sometimes bike rails are few and far between I’d have to find some kind of fence or something “There were various places where I just couldn’t find anything and they’re places where people like to walk so if it could be joined up so that there’s somewhere to lock your bike in a car park or layby.” E-bikes available to borrow for free for Merthyr Tydfil locals E-Move e-bike borrowing project comes to Abergavenny Analysing the success of the E-Move community e-cycle project The bike-based business in Aberystwyth with big ambitions Sign up now to hear more about our latest news Sustrans is committed to fundraising in a way which is legal, open, honest and respectful. Read our fundraising promise Sustrans is a registered charity in England and Wales (326550) and Scotland (SC039263) and a company limited by guarantee registered in England (1797726) at 2 Cathedral Square AN Abergavenny gym owner drug dealer who was arrested after being caught speeding has been ordered by the court to pay back the profits he made from supplying cannabis. Last year, Elias Houston, 26, was pulled over for speeding at 120mph on the A40 in his BMW. Police discovered a mobile phone that contained evidence of the personal trainer’s involvement in drug dealing as well as £6,500 in cash. The defendant admitted to being concerned in the supply of cannabis and possession of criminal property. During the defendant’s sentencing last November, the court was told that Houston told officers, “I use drugs but I don’t supply them. I have friends who do.” Prosecutor Rose Glanville told the court Houston was a “middle of the chain” street dealer with upstream supplier contacts. The offences occurred between February 13, 2023, and March 2, 2023. The court heard that the defendant resorted to drug dealing when he was an expectant father and facing difficulties in his business as a personal trainer. The defendant’s representative, Tom Roberts, told the court that Houston was a man of previous good character with no previous convictions. “He’s a loving father and supporting partner. The pre-sentence report is an overwhelmingly positive one and it lays out his genuine remorse,” he said. The Judge, Recorder Andrew Hammond told Houston that he had been “misguided” in his decision to turn to serious crime and sentenced him to a 12-month community order and 150 hours of unpaid work. The defendant recently returned to court to face a proceeds of crime hearing amounting to £6,500 in profit from selling drugs. Judge Richard Kember ordered the defendant’s available assets to be confiscated and the money paid to the state within three months. If the defendant fails to comply he will be jailed for three months in default. Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us stairs and lift shafts for the new accessible footbridge at Abergavenny station in Monmouthshire have been successfully installed by Network Rail and contractor Centregreat The Marches Line through Abergavenny was closed for the last three weekends allowing a range of essential work to take place between Newport and Shrewsbury including significant progress on the footbridge Train services on the line resumed on time yesterday morning (Monday 23 September) after the third of the three weekend closures engineers will continue to work on the glazing on the bridge as well as the cladding on the lift shafts before moving onto the mechanical and electrical installations Network Rail Capital Delivery principal portfolio manager said: “We have made excellent progress at Abergavenny over the past few weeks as any passengers using or passing through the station will have seen “All three weekends have been an intense period of activity utilising two large cranes The main span is now in place for the bridge that will provide step-free access between platforms 1 and 2 when it is completed in spring 2025 “We would like to thank all passengers and residents for their patience and understanding while we carry out these essential works for the project.” The accessibility improvements being made at Abergavenny will mean all passengers – including those with limited mobility those carrying heavy luggage or those with pushchairs ­– ­have step-free access between the two platforms for the first time Abergavenny is one of six stations on the Wales and Borders route becoming more accessible with the improvements being funded by the Department for Transport as part of the UK Government’s Access for All programme.  Work on accessible footbridges continues at neighbouring Cwmbran while Ludlow station will see a lift added to its existing footbridge to grow and expand the nation's railway network to respond to the tremendous growth and demand the railway has experienced - a doubling of passenger journeys over the past 20 years More than 100 firefighters were called to Frogmore Street in Abergavenny to battle a fire which broke out on the night of Sunday, November 10, and continued into the early hours of the next day. The Magic Cottage charity shop was at the epicentre of the inferno that saw 12 residents evacuated from their homes. The historic building which housed the shop collapsed and the popular newsagents Cable News, situated next door, was also lost to the flames. In the aftermath , South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said they would carry out a “thorough investigation” alongside Gwent Police crime scene investigators to establish the cause of the outbreak. We can now confirm that a fire investigator has explained that: “Due to the building being unsafe to enter, no fire investigation could take place. A structural engineer recommend the building be demolished due to the structural instability.” Police have not yet revealed if they are continuing to conduct any ongoing investigation of their own. Tel: 01600 712142[email protected]Follow us Drivers in Abergavenny are being warned of significant disruptions as a series of roadworks will temporarily close key routes in the area over the next several weeks The planned works are set to impact the A40 Monmouth Road with diversions in place for both local and through traffic The closures are set to begin on February 17 and are expected to operate intermittently overnight from 8pm until 6am on April 15 Phase 4 and Phase 5 will bring further partial closures of the roundabout and diversions will take drivers through surrounding routes like the A40 drivers for the A465 and the A40 will need to follow alternate routes through Llanfoist and Triley A series of temporary speed limits will be imposed across the affected areas with 40mph zones in place on the A465 and A40 in various stretches as well as a 10mph limit around the Hardwick Roundabout For further information on specific closures, diversions, and timing, drivers keep an eye on the Chronicle website at abergavennychronicle.com For more information about road closures and planning notices in your area visit https://publicnoticeportal.uk Tel: 01600 712142[email protected]Follow us THE Abergavenny Folk, Blues and Country Music Club has announced its next upcoming meetings. The next meeting will be 8pm, Tuesday, May 13, at The Hen and Chickens, Abergavenny. A spokesperson said: “Our monthly meetings will continue on the second Tuesday of every month, starting at 8pm. Purely Acoustic.Traditional and Contemporary. Everyone is welcome. You don’t have to be a player, just come along and join in the fun and be entertained by a wide choice of music and verse, performed by excellent strummers, fiddlers, pickers, pluckers and poets!” Anybody interested can find out more information on the meetings by contacting Graham on 01873852108. Further information on South Wales folk events can be found on social media and online. Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us a popular venue for both mainstream and indie films ABERGAVENNY’S Baker Street Cinema has been put up for sale. Specialist business property adviser Christie & Co, has been instructed to market the cinema which was opened after a long public campaign in 2011 by Peter and Irene Davies who also own the Coliseum Cinema in Brecon Christie and Co says that the cinema is ‘ideally located in the heart of Abergavenny’ and surrounded by an array of restaurants “The cinema is popular for it’s showing of mainstream and indie films With the town being just six miles from the English border the cinema benefits from tourist trade in addition to its local repeat customers,” says Christie and Co “The business occupies a charming period property which was originally built as a drill hall in 1896 and since then it has seen a variety of uses The cinema comprises two screens with 160 and 120 seats respectively and also includes a foyer with a box office and kiosk selling popcorn Gabriela Williams, Business Agent at Christie & Co, who is handling the sale, comments, “I am excited to bring to market Baker Street Cinema in Abergavenny. This is the first time the cinema has come up for sale since its creation in 2010, and it provides an excellent opportunity for a new owner to adapt this fantastic building and leisure business. If you would like further information on this property, please get in touch.” Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us Work on the new footbridge at Abergavenny train station is almost complete, providing step-free access between platforms Work on the new footbridge at Abergavenny train station is nearing completion. MS for Monmouth, Peter Fox, met recently with representatives of Network Rail and Transport for Wales to see the new footbridge being installed. Work has seen a new, accessible bridge installed by Network Rail and its contractor, Centregreat. It is expected that work will be finished in April, before the bridge is opened in May. Mr Fox, who is the Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure, Transport and Rural Affairs has thanked those involved. “I am very grateful to Network Rail and Transport for Wales for hosting me in Abergavenny,” he said. “I know how much this bridge has been talked about and requested for years, so it is great to see it nearing completion. A special mention must be given to Pen-Y-Fal County Councillor, Maureen Powell, who has been one of the most vocal in securing this project. “This new bridge, which is a unique structure in the UK, will go a long way in improving passenger accessibility for all passengers using the station. Passengers will now have step-free access between the two platforms for the first time.” Rhys Jehu, Station Manager at Transport for Wales, explained that Abergavenny is a key station on the network, connecting to Cardiff and Newport, as well as providing services towards North Wales, Hereford, and Manchester. “As part of TfW’s £800m investment in brand new rolling stock, passengers using Abergavenny station now have much improved rail connectivity and accessibility, along with a vastly improved onboard customer experience on a fleet of brand new trains,” he said. The new bridge features a covered walkway over the tracks, with a striking design at the top of the lift shaft. It replaces the level crossing, which raised concerns about health and safety and accessibility for wheelchair users. Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us Local businesses finding innovative ways to maintain stability - Sponsored Article As Monmouthshire's largest retail centre grapples with currency volatility local businesses are finding innovative ways to maintain stability With 285 commercial units serving a catchment population of over 32,000 Abergavenny's traders are developing new strategies to protect their businesses Recent data shows significant shifts in shopping patterns with comparison goods retention nearly doubling since 2015 even as retailers navigate the challenges of a fluctuating pound The historic market town of Abergavenny is witnessing unprecedented changes in its retail landscape as currency fluctuations impact everything from pricing strategies to consumer behaviour. Many local merchants have begun exploring forex trading for beginners to better understand and adapt to these market pressures as the town continues to evolve as a regional shopping destination Stretching from Raglan in the east to beyond Crickhowell in the west Abergavenny's medieval street pattern creates a distinctive shopping environment that shapes how businesses respond to economic pressures with its network of interconnected shopping streets has influenced how retailers cluster together to share resources and manage costs including the Brewery Yard project and pedestrianisation of Frogmore Street have created more attractive shopping spaces where businesses can better showcase their adaptations to changing economic conditions These physical changes mirror dramatic shifts in local shopping patterns While convenience goods retention has declined comparison goods shopping has strengthened considerably with clothing and fashion goods retention nearly doubling from 16.2 per cent in 2015 to 32 per cent in 2022 this means a wider range of fashion and household goods available locally reducing the need to travel to larger centres like Cardiff or Cwmbran indicates that local businesses are successfully adapting to new economic challenges The effects of currency fluctuations are most visible in how local businesses price their goods Several Cross Street merchants have developed more sophisticated pricing strategies with many now displaying both pound and euro prices which are particularly useful during the town's numerous festivals when tourist numbers peak The street's evolution toward more service-based businesses – growing from 106 in 2010 to 148 in 2023 – has created a more resilient local economy less susceptible to currency swings This collaboration between traders has helped maintain footfall, which has increased from 465 in 2015 to 637 in 2021. The presence of 43 national multiples, the highest concentration in Monmouthshire, provides a strong foundation for the town's retail resilience and continued growth. Local shopping habits have evolved in response to these changes. The significant increase in household goods expenditure retention, rising from 33.8 per cent to 52 per cent, shows growing consumer confidence in local retailers. Traders have responded by offering price-matching guarantees and transparency about how currency changes affect their pricing, building stronger relationships with regular customers. Successful local businesses are taking several approaches to manage currency challenges: As Abergavenny prepares for further growth, including 500 new homes at Abergavenny East, the retail sector shows remarkable adaptability. The town's combination of historic character and modern trading approaches positions it well for future challenges. For residents and visitors alike, these adaptations mean a more resilient shopping destination that maintains competitive pricing despite economic uncertainties. Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us At the time the firm’s managing director expressed his excitement at establishing a branch in such a “vibrant” community saying: “We are very excited to be opening a store in Abergavenny From just talking to people out and about in the town it really comes across as a very friendly vibrant community where everybody knows and supports each other After several apparently busy months the doors suddenly closed on MaxiDeals last month and now it has announced that it has gone into liquidation MaxiDeals entered voluntary liquidation on 18 February citing a tough high street trading environment alongside rising costs the chain’s MD former s director of operations at Poundstretcher posted on social media “MaxiDeals was a new startup discount retail business backed by investors where I was given the responsibility of opening its retail locations across various parts of the UK “We opened these stores during very challenging times with the Covid outbreak just starting Owned by importer and wholesaler J&E Group, MaxiDeals originally launched as MaxiSaver and rebranded as MaxiDeals in 2022 but since January the doors have been shutting at stores across the country. Tel: 01600 712142[email protected]Follow us Abergavenny anticipates potential changes as Monmouthshire County Council reveals its regeneration plans The Abergavenny Placemaking Plan is set to be unveiled to the public this week, with Monmouthshire County Council asking for feedback on the proposals In partnership with Abergavenny Town Council, residents, local businesses and voluntary organisations are invited to provide feedback on proposed plans through the county council’s new engagement platform The online platform was launched in January and aims to make it easier for the community to engage with the wide range of service areas within the council The proposed placemaking plan is intended to identify the opportunities and challenges in the town centre, create a long-term vision with local stakeholders and provide a prioritised action plan to make the vision a reality. It will not be clear what the full extent of the plan entails until it is revealed to the public this Friday. Abergavenny’s town clerk, Sandra Rosser, told the Chronicle the proposala would have a significant bearing on the town. “We aren’t absolutely sure what Monmouthshire County Council are going to show to us and the public yet, so we are excited to see what they offer,” she said. “Whatever they do propose will have a lasting impact, particularly in the town centre, where changes could alter the look and feel of the town for the next twenty to thirty years, which is why residents feedback is incredibly valuable. Between us and Monmouthshire County Council, we have to get this right.” Two drop-in sessions will be hosted between 10am and 7pm on Friday, April 4 and between 10am and 4pm on Saturday April 5. Members of the public are invited to meet officers on these dates, and the plans will also be displayed at the former Timothy Oulton store until Sunday, April 27. Residents wishing to express their views online must register to do so via letstalkmonmouthshire.co.uk. Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us CONVERSATIONS AT THE CHAPEL – ABERGAVENNY – SUE PRIDEAUX – TUESDAY 6 MAY – 7.30 PM An evening about the craft and the craft of biography with award-winning author Sue Prideaux Her latest book is Wild Thing – A Life of Paul Gauguin a vital re-examination of this pioneering and controversial artist 'A brilliantly readable and compassionate study of Gauguin' and Prideaux colours his story with nuance and detail.' Financial Times She has also written about the lives of the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche the artist Edvard Munch and the playwright August Strindberg and in collaboration with the women in art festival Threads our guest is the art historian Frances Borzello Her latest book is a fully revised and updated edition of A World of Our Own one of the first explorations of how women have always practised as artists but for centuries have been overlooked in the art world and presence unwelcome in a male profession Frances Borzello is also the author of The Naked Nude, Seeing Ourselves: Women’s Self-Portraits and At Home: The Domestic Interior in Art For tickets – events@artshopandchapel.co.uk – 01873 852690/736430  A man has been arrested following an incident of indecent exposure near King Henry VIII School in Abergavenny last week. Gwent Police confirmed that a 21-year-old man from the Abergavenny area was arrested today (Tuesday, February 4) on suspicion of indecent exposure and is currently in custody for questioning. The arrest follows reports that a man wearing a balaclava indecently exposed himself to children walking home from school on Tuesday, January 28. The incident, described as “very concerning” by King Henry VIII School, prompted a warning to pupils to remain vigilant. Police previously stated the suspect was seen near a block of garages off the lane connecting Park Crescent to Highfield Crescent/Ysguborwen at around 3:10pm. Tel: 01873 852187[email protected]Follow us