This photo is used for illustrative purposes only Cllr Tracey O’Dwyer questioned whether Kildare County Council has engaged with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) on the development of a slip road off the M9/M7 to serve the growing town. In response, Daragh Conlan, Acting Senior Engineer with the Transport, Mobility and Open Spaces Department, confirmed that while the Kildare County Development Plan 2023–2029 has identified the upgrade of this junction as a key objective, the project is not currently included in the council’s Capital Programme for 2025–2027. Cllr O’Dwyer said: “I don’t think my question has been answered. Can I take it that the council has not engaged with TII about this?”  A council representative clarified: “It’s not in the pipeline at the moment. This wouldn’t even be in consideration. Kildare Nationalist Newsletter delivered directly to your inbox A brace of tries from Dale Stuckey and Joe Davies were accompanied by scores from Kristian Parker Despite late Newbridge scores from Joel Gilbert and Geraint Evans Ponty will head to the Principality Stadium on the 5th of April where they will play Cross Keys in the final Ponty opened the scoring in the fourth minute after some neat build-up play gaining inroads inside the Newbridge half the Valley Commandos struck with a short ball to fullback Dale Stuckey who broke through the initial defence to reach out and score Lucus Welch’s second attempt to clear from just outside his 22 was a clean kick and forced an error from fullback Newbridge Robbie Turley Inside centre Ioan Evans lined up a penalty attempt just inside the Newbridge half following a dominant Ponty scrum but his effort came up short which allowed the opposition to clear Ponty built up their attack for a second time in the 14th minute and it resulted in a second try this time through second row Kristian Parker who was on the receiving end of some neat passing from fly-half Pugh and prop Garyn Daniel Newbridge managed to wrestle some momentum at the end of the first quarter with a couple of penalties inside the Ponty 22 in the rolling maul referee Garerth Newman awarded a penalty against Bridge for obstruction Ponty turned defence into attack quickly moments later with further sustained pressure resulting in a third try – a pass from centre Evans evaded the final Newbridge defender and found the hands of Stuart Floyd-Ellis who crossed in the corner Newbridge were reduced to 14 players when blindside flanker Gavin Price was sent to the sinbin following multiple lineout infringements from his side Ponty crossed for their fourth try after half an hour in similar style to the Parker try with persistent build-up play inside the opposing 22 with plenty of space out-wide fly-half Pugh gathered and crossed in the corner a fifth try was scored by Ponty through centre Garyn Smith making his first start on his return from injury scored from short range giving his side a 29-0 lead at the interval HALF TIME – Newbridge 0-29 Pontypridd Pontypridd didn’t let up on the try scoring count with three tries in the opening 10 minute period of the second half The first of those went to fullback Stuckey who crossed for his second of the afternoon as Ponty once again exposed an overlap out wide following some sustained pressure Inside centre Ioan Evans crossed over to extend Ponty’s lead when he bundled over after beating a couple of defenders to score This was before wing Joe Davies marked his return to the Ponty side with a try after pouncing on a spilled ball from a Newbridge player to regather his grubber kick and score under the cross bar Ioan Evans kicked the conversion and Ponty led 46-0 after 51 minutes The Newbridge supporters that travelled to Neath for this semi-final eventually had something to cheer about when replacement Joel Gilbert scored – this was just after Ponty were reduced to 14 players a couple of minutes earlier following a yellow card to Lloyd Riley for dissent In the 66th minute Joe Davies picked up his second try of the afternoon Ponty’s attack consistently narrowed the Newbridge defence and the wing beat a couple of defenders to make the conversion a little easier Davies’ try and Pugh’s conversion pushed Ponty’s score past the half century mark on the scoreboard Newbridge continued to show plenty of heart and were rewarded when they scored the final try of the match when replacement prop Geraint Evans scored from close range in the game’s final play A second conversion from fullback Turley signalled the final whistle from referee Gareth Newman to close the game Ponty return to league action when they travel to face Bonymaen on Friday 14th March before welcoming Merthyr to Sardis Road a week later FULL TIME – Newbridge 14-53 Pontypridd (1/3/2025) Assistant Referee/Third Official: Stuart Vaudin Support quality, independent, local journalism…that mattersFrom just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today Tesco has applied for a licence to sell alcohol at its new proposed branch in Newbridge The supermarket giant is preparing to convert the former Methodist Church Planning permission for the change of use was approved in September and it now transpires Tesco is set to take the reins there – although it could be late 2025 before the new shop opens Caerphilly County Borough Council’s licensing committee has heard concerns about the potential impact alcohol sales at the premises may have on nearby residents Environmental health officer Gareth Jones said his reservations about the plan for 6am to midnight booze sales daily were “not a slur against the professionalism” of Tesco but were “about the location” of the proposed store “This is a very quiet little part of Newbridge” adding that the church had been “closed for a number of years” The opening of a new shop there “is going to hit the residents who live opposite quite hard” Mr Jones instead proposed the committee approve shorter alcohol sales hours of 7am to 11pm Monday to Saturday defended his client’s record on responsible alcohol sales telling the committee the company had pioneered several policies around age checks in the UK He said alcohol sales were a “small but important part” of the offer at Tesco Express stores and the vast majority were part of wider purchases of other groceries The firm keeps a “rogues’ gallery” of troublemakers and has extensive training for staff “We would rather be too restrictive than the other way around,” he said adding Tesco is “incredibly responsible in everything we do” Mr Bark also said national legislation and the council’s own guidance suggested shops like a Tesco Express would “normally” be granted licensing hours to match their opening hours unless there is “good evidence to restrict” those times The committee heard Gwent Police had offered no objections to the company’s original licensing application for the site Mr Bark offered a “compromise” to the committee Cllr Mike Adams noted the location was “100 yards from a secondary school” Mr Bark said Tesco worked with schools and communities to ensure there were no problems linked to their stores reminded those present that the licensing committee was only responsible for considering licensing matters – and not for other potential changes to the community brought about by the building’s change of use No members of the public offered objections to the licensing bid during a recent consultation period The committee retired to consider the case and will publish its decision in the coming days Support quality, independent, local journalism…that mattersFrom just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts.Become a member today Gardai have been notified of horses left roaming around a new housing estate in Station Walk in Newbridge Moyvalley-based My Lovely Horse Rescue said the horses were dehydrated prompting a local to give them a bowl of water Kfm understands that the horses have since "gone missing" from the area Locals said the issue is "constantly happening" Co. Kildare FM Radio Ltd. t/a Kfm Radio - Company No: 355494 - Registered Office: Kfm Broadcast Centre, M7 Business Park, Newhall, Naas, Co. Kildare. Kfm is licenced by Coimisiún na Meán as a local sound broadcaster for Co Kildare. Directors: Anna May McHugh (Chair), Clem Ryan (Executive), Catherine Wall (Secretary), Seán Ashmore. All rights reserved. Newbridge on Wye man's birthday cheque presentation to a local charity A Newbridge on Wye man celebrated his 80th birthday by giving a donation to a Builth Wells charity. Together with presents received for his recent 80th birthday, Clive Barrett invited family and friends to make donations to his chosen charity namely Builth Wells Community Support.  This group has been excellent to Clive and his wife in recent years with their very efficient transport to various hospitals, as part of their community support services. Derry SFC final - Newbridge 1-12 Glen 2-8 (FT) - All-Ireland holders stunned Fermanagh SFC final - Enniskillen Gaels 0-8 Erne Gaels 0-8 (Game goes to replay) Ciaran Brooks' injury-time winner gives Newbridge a first Derry SFC title in 35 years The Newbridge fans run onto the pitch while Glen look stunned 965Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingA replay to come in the Fermanagh SFC Finalpublished at 17:23 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202417:23 GMT 27 October 2024FT: Enniskillen Gaels 0-8 Erne Gaels 0-8 It's all over at Brewster Park and both teams will have to do it all again in a replay next weekend but Erne Gaels' Shane Rooney dropped a free short and Enniskillen's Callum Jones saw a free go wide of the post 30Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 17:23 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202417:23 GMT 27 October 2024Newbridge 1-12 Glen 2-8 Newbridge cornerback Ciaran Brooks scores with 30 seconds to go 628Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingGoalpublished at 17:21 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202417:21 GMT 27 October 2024Newbridge 1-11 Glen 2-8 Ryan Dougan gets the final touch on a long hopeful ball in 2216Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 17:20 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202417:20 GMT 27 October 2024Newbridge 1-11 Glen 1-8 Ulster and All-Ireland titles is loosening They have a couple of minutes plus stoppage time to save themselves 194Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingTwo minutes to gopublished at 17:19 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202417:19 GMT 27 October 2024Enniskillen Gaels 0-8 Erne Gaels 0-8 Two minutes of additional time has been indicated.. 00Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 17:18 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202417:18 GMT 27 October 2024Newbridge 1-11 Glen 1-8 Newbridge lead by three with around four minutes of nornal time to go Can they hang on for what be a shock victory 292Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 17:18 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202417:18 GMT 27 October 2024Enniskillen Gaels 0-8 Erne Gaels 0-8 Erne Gaels supporters have breathed a huge sigh of relief Enniskillen's corner forward Conor Love had a shot drop short and the wet ball was spilled by the goalkeeper he recovered his mistake and kept the ball out of his net With one minute of normal time to go a goal would surely be a winner.. 10Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 17:14 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202417:14 GMT 27 October 2024Newbridge 1-10 Glen 1-8 Mark Doherty clips over from close range for Newbridge as the momentum shifts again 414Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingGoalpublished at 17:13 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202417:13 GMT 27 October 2024Newbridge 1-9 Glen 1-8 Shane McGrogan boxes the ball to the net after Conor McAteer's ball across a sniff of a square ball but the green flag is raised 334Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 17:13 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202417:13 GMT 27 October 2024Enniskillen Gaels 0-8 Erne Gaels 0-8 The Fermanagh SFC Final is level for the seventh time following Ross Bogue knocking over from a '45 Erne Gaels manager Declan Bonner will have to watch the rest of the game from the stands as he is sent off for protesting against the referee 01Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 17:11 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202417:11 GMT 27 October 2024Newbridge 0-9 Glen 1-8 Conor Glass (we haven't mentioned him much today have we?) strokes over a superb '45' as Glen turn the screw 113Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 17:09 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202417:09 GMT 27 October 2024Enniskillen Gaels 0-7 Erne Gaels 0-8 That's three points on the bounce for Erne Gaels with Ultan Kelm hitting possibly the score of the day after a stunning solo run They lead with less than 10 minutes to go.. 30Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingGoalpublished at 17:08 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202417:08 GMT 27 October 2024Newbridge 0-9 Glen 1-7 Conleth McGuckian grabs a vital goal for Glen A superb break up the field leads to McGuckian coolly slotting home at the near post Could be a massive turning-point in this game 227Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingLevel again in Brewster Parkpublished at 17:07 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202417:07 GMT 27 October 2024Enniskillen Gaels 0-7 Erne Gaels 0-7 Dan McCann has the game level for the sixth time with 12 minutes to go If these two sides can't be separated after 60 minutes they'll have to do it all over again in a replay next weekend 20Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 17:04 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202417:04 GMT 27 October 2024Newbridge 0-9 Glen 0-7 Newbridge halt Glen's charge with a point from Sean Young 92Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 17:04 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202417:04 GMT 27 October 2024Newbridge 0-8 Glen 0-7 Tiarnan Flanagan storms forward from defence to clip over a tidy score 60Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 16:59 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202416:59 GMT 27 October 2024Enniskillen Gaels 0-7 Erne Gaels 0-6 An Ultan Kelm free makes it a one-point game 30Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 16:57 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202416:57 GMT 27 October 2024Newbridge 0-8 Glen 0-6 Glen's Jack Doherty has come on for Conor Convery 202Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingEnniskillen Gaels in the driving seatpublished at 16:54 Greenwich Mean Time 27 October 202416:54 GMT 27 October 2024Enniskillen Gaels 0-7 Erne Gaels 0-5 Enniskillen Gaels have come flying out of the traps to start the second half and for the first time in the game there is a lead greater than one point as Callum Jones and Ethan Beresford have the favourites two-to-the-good 🎟 Book now: 👉 https://neathrfc.com/tickets/ @newbridgerfc  and @PontypriddRFC  collide in a massive Premiership Cup semi-final at The Lextan Gnoll (Neath RFC) The Premiership Cup is Welsh rugby at its finest – built on passion with Newbridge and Pontypridd epitomising everything that makes the grassroots game the heart and soul of Welsh rugby 🎟 Tickets: Adults £10 | OAPs/Kids £5 (Proof of ID may be required) 🍽 ST DAVID’S DAY HOSPITALITY – £30 🍽 Enjoy a premium matchday experience with food and an exclusive appearance from Rowland Phillips – a true Welsh rugby icon Rowland isn’t just a Welsh rugby great in both codes – he’s a TV personality one of the finest speakers on the world rugby circuit… and funny as f!** If you want top-class rugby chat mixed with some of the best stories in the game ✅ Pontypridd – simply outstanding this season Those who have watched them this season know they are a real force – physical and more than capable of taking the fight to Ponty and coming away with the W Both clubs have a long-standing bond with Neath and a shared rugby heritage It’s always a pleasure to welcome Newbridge and Pontypridd supporters to The Lextan Gnoll and past encounters have shown how passionate #Grassroots #NewbridgeRFC #PontypriddRFC #IndigoPremiershipCup #WelshRugby #TheLextanGnoll #StDavidsDayRugby #RugbySemiFinal #NeathRFC #CupRugbyAnythingCanHappen #HeartAndSoulOfWelshRugby #SupportTheSupporters #ChooseNeath @AllWalesSport Disclaimer / Privacy Statement Saturday 1st March at the Lextan Gnoll home of Neath RFC and kicks off at 2:30pm Saturday’s Semi-Final will be a repeat of when the two clubs met at the same stage of the competition on Saturday 14th April 2012 at Cardiff Arms Park Newbridge were in the division below Ponty at that time but it was a close-fought affair which the Valley Commandos edged by 28 points to 24 As the teams prepare for this week’s match they will have the advantage of knowing what to expect having played in each other twice in the Premiership this season Pontypridd may have achieved a ‘league-double’ over the men from The Welfare Ground but what unfolded in the matches highlights the competitive nature of both contests On Saturday 28th September Ponty won by 22 points to 0 at Sardis Road with Newbridge proving to be gutsy opponents early on in the season Then just last month on Saturday 25th January in a match that could have gone either way it was Ponty that ground out the win 30-22 despite being outscored four tries to three by our hosts From previous league encounters to current Cup runs and there’s a certain similarity to the teams’ paths to the Semi-Final stage Both Pontypridd and Newbridge were two of the three clubs that received byes for the first round and went straight through to the second round stage In the second round both clubs were drawn away from home Ponty triumphed with a last-kick-of-the-match win away at Bargoed whilst Newbridge won 32-22 away at Dale McIntosh’s Brecon The winner of this Saturday’s Gnoll semi-final will face the winners of either Cross Keys or Merthyr who face off in the other tie and as usual the team will be relying on your magnificent support this weekend Phil Lycett’s contact number is 01443 662561 The host club, Neath RFC, have pre-match hospitality available for supporters. You can check out the packages available and/or purchase your match tickets via the following link which takes you to their official website – MATCH DAY HOSPITALITY – NEATH v PONTYPRIDD For Ponty Fans making your own way to the ground the postcode required for your sat-navs is SA11 3BU The two clubs will lock horns on Saturday 25th January in the Admiral Premiership Saturday’s match will be Ponty’s first visit to The Welfare Ground since 27th January 2007 in the Welsh Cup when the Valley Commandos came away with a 25-0 win that day Our last league match at Newbridge is a few months shy of 20 years ago when the two sides met earlier this season on Saturday 28th September last year at Sardis Road The Men from Gwent proved to be resilient opponents and made Ponty work very hard for their 22-0 win – Cai James Louis Rochefort-Shugar and Kristian Parker scored the tries whilst Jacob Symes kicked the other seven points On Saturday just gone Ponty enjoyed a big bonus-point win over Llangennech to maintain their 3-point lead at the top of the table over Neath Newbridge were the side that played Neath at the Gnoll on Saturday and were leading 19-14 as the match entered the final ten minutes But two late tries broke Newbridge hearts as the Welsh All Blacks secured a bonus-point win of their own a late Newbridge penalty meant they headed home to The Welfare Ground with a losing bonus-point that their efforts deserved following a 28-22 reverse The top three teams all won with a bonus-point over the weekend and there’s very much a ‘who will blink first’ vibe for all the clubs in pursuit of the Premiership crown Newbridge currently occupy 10th place in the league sitting towards the lower end of the congested mid-table positions knowing that a couple of wins will propel them up the standings There’s another large contingent of travelling Valley Commando support expected to head north-east to The Welfare Ground on Saturday – we’ll see you there The Pontypridd Supporters Club are organising travel for fans to the match on Saturday The bus will leave Sardis Road at 1:00pm ahead of the 2:30pm kick-off The bus will then depart Newbridge for Pontypridd at 5:30pm – don’t leave it too late to book and be disappointed Here’s our recent Supporters Bus article with all the finer details – Supporters Coach to Newbridge The postcode for Newbridge’s ground is NP11 5FR THE PONTYPRIDD PENDRAGONS ANNIVERSARY EVENT – The Supporters Bus will be arriving back at Sardis Road at around 6:00pm – this will be just in time for the Pontypridd Pendragons One Year Anniversary event in the Clubhouse which all supporters are invited to. Please see our recent article which has all the key information for this – Come and Celebrate with the Pendragons Saturday’s match will be Ponty’s first visit to The Welfare Ground since 27th January 2007 when the two teams met in the Welsh Cup The last league meeting between the two clubs at Newbridge’s home was even longer ago than that when on 30/4/2005 the Valley Commandos came away with a 51 points to 14 win in the Premiership Ponty and Newbridge renewed their rivalry earlier this season at Sardis Road – on Saturday 28th September three tries from the home side sealed a 22-0 win during the early weeks of the season The months have passed and this weekend’s match pits 10th against 1st in the current standings Newbridge will be looking for the win that will propel them up the Premiership table whilst Pontypridd will be looking to continue their winning run knowing that both Neath and Merthyr are right on their tails The Valley Commandos will be well prepared for the challenge that Newbridge will bring following their very late defeat at the Gnoll last Saturday Ponty have made four changes to the starting XV that triumphed against Llangennech last week – two each in both the forwards and backs and there’s another two new faces on the bench In the backs there are returns for Joel Raikes at scrum-half and Louis Rochefort-Shugar on the wing the switch sees last weeks’ debutant Iwan Griffith move from the wing to outside centre In the forwards Ben Stephens is drafted back into the starting line-up at prop and Ieuan Davies who also made his debut last week off the bench starts in the second-row Player-Head Coach Kristian Parker moves out of the second-row and into the back-row On the bench the two new faces in the matchday squad are Oli Shepherd and backrower Lloyd Jones Unavailable for selection through injury are Garyn Smith The Pontypridd team selected to play Newbridge is as follows: The Pontypridd Supporters Club are organising travel for fans to the match the bus will leave Sardis Road at 1:00pm ahead of the 2:30pm kick-off The bus will then depart Newbridge for Pontypridd at 5:30pm As always Phil Lycett’s number is 01443 662561 This year's Leinster Under 20 Football Championship reaches a climax in Newbridge tonight (Wednesday) when for the second year running Meath and Louth do battle for Provincial honours claiming victory on a 3-13 to 0-12 score line Both teams have a number of survivors from that particular duel with Meath looking to retain their title and Louth seeking to end a 44 year wait in the grade Meath have 3 of last year's side starting again Rian Stafford and Jamie Murphy - it's an unchanged team from the one that overcame Kildare in the semi final last week Louth are not expected to name their team until shortly before throw-in - but it's expected to be the same as the one that won in Darver last week Meath boss Cathal Ó Bric is expecting a tough test from a Louth team who have notched 3 successive victories Selector Declan Byrne is hoping the players involved in last year's defeat can channel that disappointment into their performance this evening. Full live radio coverage will be available here on LMFM Tesco has applied for longer opening hours at its proposed new shop in Newbridge The supermarket giant is preparing to open a Tesco Express convenience store at what was formerly Newbridge Methodist Church will amend the maximum opening hours of the store to 6am to 11pm daily A legal representative for Tesco indicated in December that Caerphilly County Borough Council could expect to receive the application after the local authority’s licensing committee granted permission for alcohol sales for the same hours the committee heard the new store might open in late 2025 The planning agent for the new application said the proposed changes were “minor” and in keeping with opening hours the council granted Tesco for its Express store in Highfields Way Mr Botten said there would be “no adverse noise impact on the amenity of adjacent properties or land” and “all amenity considerations have been acknowledged” it is argued that this proposal is considered policy compliant and that local residential properties to the application site will not be adversely affected by extended opening hours,” he added in his letter to the council During December’s licensing committee hearing council environmental health officer Gareth Jones told members he had reservations about plans to sell alcohol from 6am to midnight each day arguing the store would open in a “very quiet little part of Newbridge” defended the company’s “incredibly responsible” record of selling alcohol – but in light of the officer’s concerns offered a “compromise” of 6am to 11pm for sales Mr Botten claimed increasing the permitted opening hours “will significantly improve the customer experience and the overall operation of the proposed convenience store” He added: “It will assist more generally in supporting the viability of the store as well as providing local residents with easy access to grocery goods throughout the day.” The application is currently out for consultation and can be viewed on the Caerphilly County Borough Council website under reference 25/0005/NCC Following their exciting 21-21 draw with Brecon last week, Neath RFC face Newbridge at The Lextan Gnoll on Saturday (kick off 2.30pm). From post-war to the advent of the professional game, Newbridge were a regular fixture on The Gnoll club’s list but Saturday will be their first visit to Neath for 20 years – too long an absence. Neath make several squad changes to the starting line-up. Steff Williams is at full back with Nathan Orrells and Iestyn Morgan on the wings. Rhodri Wall and Kieran Charles continue their centre partnership with George Richards pairing up with former Bridgend scrum-half Connor Tantum. Up font, Josh Jones, Cai Arnold, Owain Morgan and Casey Williams give fresh impetus to the pack while Dyfan Ceredig is back on the replacements’ bench. 15 Steff Williams; 14 Nathan Orrells, 13 Rhodri Wall, 12 Kieran Charles, 11  Iestyn Morgan; 10 George Richards, 9 Connor Tantum; 1 Josh Jones, 2 Josh Clark, 3 Tarik Dabeh; 4 Jacob Blackmore, 5 Cai Arnold; 6 Owain Morgan, 8 Ben Williams (captain), 7 Casey Williams Replacements  – 16 Evan Kneath, 17 Mason Morgan, 18 Gareth Lloyd, 19 Matthew Davies, 20 Gethin Tremlett, 21Dyfan Ceredig, 22 Rhodri Cole, 23 Matthew Jenkins Referee – Ms. Amber Stamp-Dunstan (Cardiff)  AR3 – Mr. Peter Mortimer (Mountain Ash) Saturday     January 25  Cross Keys                            Away          2.30pm Saturday     February 1  Newcastle Emlyn                   Home          2.30pm where they will play Newbridge in a Welsh Cup semi-final tie The match against the Welfare Ground men kicks off at 2:30pm Ponty and Newbridge met at this stage of the competition just under 13 years ago on Saturday 14th April 2012 at Cardiff Arms Park It was a close-fought encounter which Pontypridd edged by a 28-24 scoreline To the present and the two clubs have played each other twice during the current league campaign and although Pontypridd have achieved a ‘season’s double’ over Saturday’s opponents On Saturday 28th September Ponty won by 22 points to 0 at Sardis Road and then last month on Saturday 25th January it was the Valley Commandos that ground out the win 30-22 despite being outscored four tries to three by the home side and as usual the team will be relying on your magnificent support this weekend – pob lwc bois Saturday’s semi-final is Ponty’s first match for a fortnight with the team’s last outing coming on Saturday 15th February against Cardiff Met at Sardis Road The Valley Commandos have made six personnel changes and two positional switches to the XV that took on the Archers two weeks ago and there’s also four new faces on the bench including two potential debutants In the backline there are returns to the starting line-up for Lucus Welch at scrum-half Joe Davies on the left wing and Garyn Smith at outside centre Garyn’s return from injury sees Stuart Floyd-Ellis move from the centre to the right wing berth In the pack Ben Stephens and Garyn Daniel return to the side at loosehead and tighthead prop respectively The other new face is the return of Club captain Cally James from injury Cally’s recall sees Kristian Parker move from the backrow and back into the boiler house with Mitch Barnard On the bench there are recalls to the matchday squad for Jeff Young and Oli Shepherd whilst there are first ever senior involvements for Oliver Lewis and Aled Evans Oliver is a second-row on permit from Scarlets U18s whilst Aled is a backrower and the captain of Ponty Youth whose recent fine form has earned him a call up Whilst Ponty’s injury list has shortened over the last couple of weeks the unfortunate news is that Cai James remains on it the supporters buses are leaving Sardis Road at 1:00pm Post-match they will leave the Gnoll at 5:30pm Fáilte chuig gaa.ie - suíomh oifigiúil CLG Corner back Ciaran Brooks was the unlikeliest of championship heroes as Newbridge ended Glen's reign as All Ireland club champions with a injury time winning point that gave the O'Leary's a first Oak Leaf title in 35 years Ryan Dougan's last minute goal looked to have salvaged extra-time for Malachy O'Rourke's reigning champions only for Mark Doherty to dig out a 61st minute pass that gave corner back Brooks the opportunity to upset the odds and claim an 11th Oak Leaf title for Newbridge their first win since Liam Devlin's two goals defeated Castledawson back in 1989 It was a thrilling finale which swung one way then the other but Gary Hetherington's men were fully deserving an historic victory which inflicted only a second ever championship defeat on O'Rourke during his tenure as Watty Graham's manager It also meant Glen were denied becoming only the third team in history to win four successive Oak Leaf senior titles Newbridge started with the breeze at their backs and settled well into what was their first senior final in 33 years With Conleth McGrogan detailed on Glen dangerman Ethan Doherty and Conor Doherty facing off against county colleague Conor Glass who struck the game's opening point with just 60 seconds on the clock of a half which would see the teams level four times but Glen's possession game kicked in with Tiarnan Flanagan levelling on four minutes before a foul on Young brought Oisin Doherty the first of three first half points Glen were level for a second time with a disputed Ethan Doherty point but by and large the trend had been set of Glen possession and Newbridge counter in which Mark Doherty was an excellent attacking spark With Emmet Bradley finding his own range from the first of three frees Glen were twice in front through the big midfielder only to be pegged back by Newbridge finally got a bit of daylight between themselves and the holders when a malfunctioning kick-out gave Oisín Doherty an easy score before Conleth McGrogan hit the point of the half for 0-6 to 0-4 on 19 minutes Emmet Bradley reduced the deficit from another placed ball only for Odhran McGlone to re-instore Newbridge's two point lead and send the underdogs into the break leading 0-7 to 0-5 Glen introduced Johnny McGuckian at the break with most spectators expecting what has become Glen's trademark third quarter surge but it was slower than usual coming as Newbridge dug in Indeed it was the O'Leary's who struck first that man Oisin Doherty taking the lead out to three courtesy of a 34th minute free A Michael Warnock interception was followed by a drive forward that brought the free from which Danny Tallon made it 0-8 to 0-6 and with Jack Doherty making an impressive cameo off the Glen bench Tiarnan Flanagan made it a one point game with just over 40 minutes gone Sean Young grabbed his second of the day to take Newbridge out to 0-9 to 0-7 before Conleth McGuckin hit Glen's opening goal which saw the Watty's take full advantage of Glass' excellent turnover McGuckian slipping a nice low finish under James Gribben for a 1-8 to 0-9 lead When Glass extended that lead with a well struck '45' it looked like a fourth year in the Watty's trophy cabinet for the John McLaughlin trophy But Newbridge weren't reading the script With nine minutes remaining Conor McAteer's high centre was touched home on the line by full forward Shane McGrogan the man whose goal defeated Magherafelt in the semi-final to put the O'Leary's one point up One became three thanks to points from McAteer and Tiarnan Flanagan and Newbridge had the finishing line in sight Dougan's goal looked to have stolen the dream only for Brooks to pop up as the unlikeliest of championship heroes brilliant stuff and a day nobody in Newbridge is likely to forget Scorers for Newbridge: Oisin Doherty 0-4 (3fs) Subs: Johhny McGuckian for Cathal Mulholland Kerry impress in Electric Ireland Munster MFC win over Cork10 hours ago Tipp beat Clare in Electric Ireland Munster MFC Phase 1 Final14 hours ago Referees named for Ulster and Leinster SFC Finals21 hours ago Kevin McStay expecting positive Mayo response1 days ago Official Sponsors of the GAA Football All-Ireland Championship Official Sponsors of the GAA Hurling All-Ireland Championship Eight men have appeared at Cardiff Crown Court charged with violent disorder after two mass brawls in Blackwood and Newbridge last month A previous court hearing described the brawls as part of a “turf war” between rival barbers over plans for a new shop in Newbridge The eight men charged with violent disorder are: Bave Hamed At around 2.45pm on Thursday February 13 Gwent Police were called to an ‘alleged disorder’ on Blackwood High Street and ten minutes later were called to another incident on Newbridge High Street Around 16 people were involved in the fights with several injured – including one with a stab wound were granted conditional bail with a trial date set for March next year Joe Davies and Ieuan Davies saw the visitors hold on with centre Evans also kicking three penalties and two conversions Ponty opened the scoring in the early stages through Ioan Evans who kicked a penalty after an off feet infringement from ‘Bridge loosehead Gareth Young Evans’ second penalty of the game after 12 minutes went wide after second row Ieuan Davies was tackled off the ball but Ponty capitalised following the restart Number 8 Joe Miles made a break and offloaded to his scrum half Joel Raikes who was stopped by a tackle from a Newbridge defender centre Evans broke through the line to score He converted his own try to give his side a 10-0 lead With the hosts looking to get back into the game with an attack wing Joe Davies read the play brilliantly as he picked off a pass inside his own 22 and ran over 80 meters and scored underneath the crossbar for his team’s second try Fullback Dale Stuckey took over the kicking duties to add the simple conversion as the match approached the 20 minute mark Ponty were reduced to 14 players after 22 minutes when loosehead prop Ben Stephens was shown a yellow card following a high tackle the home side’s hooker Joel Gilbert was at the back of the rolling maul and with the assistance of forwards and backs adding their weight The conversion from fly-half Simon Veall hit the post With wing Louis Rochefort-Shugar being taken off so Ponty could accommodate a full front row the hosts struck for their second try by using the space out wide that had been vacated by the yellow card substitute A cross-field kick from Veall bounced kindly to Aneurin Paterson who did well to beat two Ponty defenders to score in what was a costly yellow card period for the visitors who had conceded 10 points With Rochefort-Shugar and Ben Stephens returning their side to a full complement of players a chance for the visitors came through the rolling maul but after the first attempt brought a penalty a second rolling maul attempt saw Ponty cross the line but the ball was held up following some stern Newbridge defence wing Cian Jones crossed for the hosts after a grubber kick from fullback Robbie Turley caused chaos in the Ponty backfield recycled and this resulted in a simple finish for the Newbridge left wing The conversion from Veall went wide as Ponty held on to a 2-point halftime lead at 17-15 HALF TIME – Newbridge 15-17 Pontypridd The home side had scored the last 15 points of the match and the momentum was with them during the final 20 minutes of the first half But Ponty came out for the second period determined to wrestle back the initiative A turnover from Louis Rochefort-Shugar gave the visitors a platform and a high tackle on Ioan Evans gave Ponty the first points of the second half when the centre got back on his feet to kick the three points Ponty’s second visit to the 22 in the half almost brought a third try with a spectacular pass through the legs almost putting Iwan Griffith over for the score but the outside centre was deemed to have dropped the ball over the tryline Evans kicked his third penalty of the match after a high tackle on Joe Miles following a goal line drop out the score now 23-15 to Pontypridd on the hour mark Newbridge were piling on the pressure as the game entered the final 10 minutes and they were camped on the Ponty tryline after two penalties from the rolling maul but on their third effort they attempted to play but Ponty forced a ball spill With the Valley Commandos wanting to clear their lines a scuffle between Mitch Barnard and Newbridge replacement Ross Edwards saw referee Ben Connor reach into his pocket for a second time and the pair were sent to the sinbin Eventually Ponty crossed for their third try through second row Ieuan Davies who powered over following some sustained Pontypridd pressure The home side picked up a well-deserved bonus point for scoring four tries through inside centre Josh Thomas after they exposed an overlap in the Ponty defence but they just fell short of losing bonus point range Despite a spell of possession in the game’s final play there was no four-try bonus point for Pontypridd when Lucus Welch booted the ball out of play for his side to claim an important four match point victory Ponty head to Narberth in their next Welsh Premiership fixture on February 1st before returning to Sardis Road the following week when they welcome Cross Keys in a rescheduled fixture in the league on Friday 7th FULL TIME – Newbridge 22-30 Pontypridd (25/1/2025) Louis Rochefort-Shugar (George Thorrington) Assistant Referee/Third Official: Julian Smith NEATH held off Newbridge’s determined challenge to gain an important bonus-point win at a dry but cold Gnoll on Saturday Prior to kick off a minute’s applause was held in memory of former Neath lock Steve Dando who was buried on Friday and it was fitting that many of his former colleagues were there to pay their respects to a grand old forward who featured in many a close battle between these two clubs Neath enjoyed the better of the first half and they recovered their poise and a well-executed move off a line-out brought a try for centre Rhodri Wall which Steff Williams winning three turn-overs in quick possession but careless handling cost them dear before scrum-half Connor Tantum nipped across for a debut try which Williams converted to make it 14-nil With Cai Arnold and Jacob Blackmore doing sterling work at the line-outs the strong running of centre Kieran Charles was causing Newbridge much concern but Neath were guilty of wasting chances and before half-time Newbridge hit back with a fine try by flanker Adam White which full back Eamonn Rees converted too often seeking confrontation rather than space bombed a couple of chances themselves before the interval Half-time – Neath 14 points Newbridge 7 points The concession of a try in the lead-up to half-time ought to have caused alarm-bells to ring for Neath but No.8 Mike Preece powered over from a scrum wide out and the visitors bagged a second so suddenly Neath were down 14-19 This stung Neath into action and a furious attack by the forwards led to a try by lock Jacob Blackmore which Steff Williams converted and the Blacks wasted little time in under-lining their advantage with a first try by Tarik (Bull) Dabeh Steff Williams’ fourth conversion out of four sending him past 750 points for the Club Newbridge advanced as far a halfway to earn a penalty which Rees kicked to earn a bonus point for Newbridge but Neath remained in charge until the end to clinch the win the big plus for Neath was the performance of several players on their return to fitness Josh Jones and Owain Morgan have not played much rugby so far and all did well while it was good to see flanker Casey Williams and doing what he does best always in the thick of the action Newbridge fought as hard as any side to have visited The Gnoll this season and they will make a speedy return to The Gnoll on March 1 for a cup semi-final against Pontypridd which should be an attractive prospect Neath now move on to what is certain to be another embracing Gwent challenge when they visit Cross Keys who won at Brecon on Saturday NEATH – S Williams; N Orrells (R Cole) C Arnold (M Davies); O Morgan (G Tremlett) M Davies (I Martin-Lloyd); G Young (M Kavanagh) J Reames-Williams (O Hatherall); L Ford (J Duffy) Images courtesy of Len Kowalski www.lensworkphotography.co.uk Tesco has won a licensing bid to sell alcohol at its proposed new store in Newbridge The supermarket firm is planning to take over the former Methodist Church The new shop will likely open in late 2025 Caerphilly County Borough Council’s licensing committee was told at a meeting shortly before Christmas members heard Tesco wanted to sell alcohol between 6am and midnight each day but a council environmental health officer had raised concerns about the impact of those hours on nearby residents Gareth Jones added the store had been proposed in a “very quiet little part of Newbridge” and claimed its opening “is going to hit the residents who live opposite quite hard” Mr Jones instead proposed alcohol sales hours of 7am to 11pm Monday to Saturday Also present at that meeting Mr Bark defended his client’s “incredibly responsible” policies on alcohol sales telling the committee the firm would “rather be too restrictive than the other way around” Mr Bark offered a “compromise” proposal of licensing hours from 6am to 11pm daily He told the committee guidance would “normally” grant such hours unless there was “good evidence” to restrict them The committee members have since agreed unanimously to the “compromise” licensable hours proposed by Mr Bark subject to several conditions including CCTV staff training and a “good neighbour ethos” https://www.derrynow.com/section/1245/advertise-with-us All the latest breaking local news from Derry and County Derry Keep up to date with the latest sports news Read all the latest crime & court news in Derry and County Derry Read all the latest Irish news and updates from around Ireland Catch up on all the latest business news in Derry and County Derry Find whats happening in and around Derry and County Derry Enjoy our award winning photos and picture galleries taken in Derry and County Derry Read about the latest properties available in Derry and County Derry Enjoy our latest and up to date motoring review and news in Derry and County Derry Derry and County Derry Met Eireann Weather Forecast Recent death notices and obituaries from Derry and County Derry Latest environmental and climate change news in County Derry Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter Support our mission and join our community now you can subscribe for as little as €0.50 per week which will also give you access to all of our premium content and archived articles Thank you for supporting Ireland's best local journalism The Faughanvale team huddle before the game Newbridge enjoyed their second win from three fixtures on the road defeating Faughanvale by six points on a cold while Nathan Rocks and Mark McGrogan hit goals for the winners Home side Faughanvale fought back late in the game with second half goals from Jordan Curran and Kevin Martin not enough to reel the Derry champions in While Championship is always king in the GAA world with all the runners and riders aiming to time their run accordingly nobody likes to get off to a poor start in the league corrodes confidence and can destabilise even the better blue chip sides It offers managers the chance to blood exciting new if not garner a promotion or swerve a dreaded relegation a mere 31 years since they last played Division One football John McLaughlin Park witnessed a five point win for Faughanvale first day out against their 2024 bête noir Ballinderry That win preceded a single point defeat on the road to Glen a contest they feel they really should have won Newbridge boasted a similar league record prior to this mid-week encounter defeat on the road to league champions Kilrea followed that opening day win away to Magherafelt in full flow you have to remind yourself these lads are amateurs Many of them have just come in from a day’s work and travelled up the Glenshane Pass to play a game of football with the dinner yet to be tackled The reigning club champions are a sight to behold in attack even so early in the 2025 season – the break-neck pace they played in a gear their opponents simply couldn’t match The O’Leary’s ran in 1-12 to 0-4 at the break Eoin McElhinney – an outrageously good effort from an awful angle –and James McCafferty handed the ‘Vale a 0-3 to 0-2 lead after ten minutes But after that the wheels wobbled and threatened to come off completely Managers Darrell O’Kane and Emmett McKeever’s side probably shaded territory and possession but struggled with the final ball which simply wasn’t sticking inside The tightly knit Newbridge rearguard can take much of the credit for that Kevin Brady and Gary Hetherington run a well drilled offensive unit the lightning speed of movement contrasting with their adversary’s more laboured approach resulted in a Nathan Rocks 13th minute goal Newbridge would hit eight of the next nine scores with their shooting accuracy wonderfully clinical Conor McAteer was at the heart of most things and leathered over a brace of two pointers in the first half alone Jude Diamond and Cathair McBride handed their side an eleven point lead at half-time Half-time: Faughanvale 0-4  -  1-12 Newbridge the new rules have bedded in quickly at grassroots level Both sides found two pointers on a night ill-fitting for such endeavours while the ‘solo and go’ has certainly sped things up and kept the action flowing thick and fast With two teams both wearing green and white in fading light and with the sidelines shouting ‘only two up’ certainly calls for officials with eyes on the back of their heads but referee Caolan Hazlett coped manfully and had a decent game Mark McGrogan opened the second half in spectacular style banging home Newbridge’s second goal after a determined run A Conor McAteer free stretched the O’Leary advantage out to fifteen points with the contest seemingly done and dusted Personnel changes just before the break – with the introduction of Jordan Curran - and at half-time – with Kevin Martin and Sean Butcher unleashed – proved the catalyst for the mini come-back Curran’s goal in the 39th minute ignited the flame of hope for the home side who accounted for six of the proceeding seven scores Paddy O’Kane notched a couple more frees and Eoin McElhinney hit his second of the evening further advanced home supporters thoughts of an unlikely win With Callum McGrogan back conducting around the middle third the O’Leary’s held their opponents at arms’ length to see out the win with impact sub Barney Darragh’s final point bringing the night’s entertainment to a conclusion " + $(".testo_articolo").html().replace(//g please subscribe and support local journalism Subscribing will allow you access to all of our premium content and archived articles To continue reading this article for FREE,please kindly register and/or log in Registration is absolutely 100% FREE and will help us personalise your experience on our sites You can also sign up to our carefully curated newsletter(s) to keep up to date with your latest local news Derry BT redundancy payments capped at one year Derry - Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign The role offers an attractive package for the right candidate Subscribe or register today to discover more from DonegalLive.ie Donegal Post and Inish Times here for instant access to Donegal's premier news titles Keep up with the latest news from Donegal with our daily newsletter featuring the most important stories of the day delivered to your inbox every evening at 5pm This publication supports the work of the Press Council of Ireland and Office of the Press Ombudsman and our staff operate within the Code of Practice of the Press Council Lo-call 1800 208 080 or email: info@presscouncil.ie A 29-year-old man from Pentwynmawr has become the eighth person charged with violent disorder after fighting in Blackwood and Newbridge last week Omed Pirot appeared in Newport Magistrates Court on Tuesday February 18 having initially been taken to hospital with injuries after the fighting on Thursday February 13 were remanded into custody following their appearance at the same court after they were all charged with violent disorder said: “Reports of this type are very concerning to our communities but it is thanks to the swift actions of those who reported this to us that we were able to act quickly and decisively they are still very serious and these arrests show that we will not tolerate this behaviour “Our connection to our communities drives us to keep Gwent safe and we are proud to have worked swiftly and diligently for the residents of Blackwood and Newbridge to secure these eight charges.” Newport Magistrates’ Court was told on Monday February 17 the disorder was in relation to a “turf war” between rival barbers over plans for a new shop in Newbridge The seven men charged with violent disorder are: Bave Hamed All of the defendants were refused bail and the court was told they all intend to plead not guilty They were remanded in custody and will appear next at crown court on March 17 Police continue to appeal for information from the public quoting the following log reference: Blackwood: 2500047958 and Newbridge: 2500047973 or contact the force via direct message on social media Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 Cross Keys will face Merthyr in the other semi-final For Ponty and Newbridge the tie will be a repeat of the semi-final which took place on Saturday 14th April 2012 at Cardiff Arms Park Pontypridd won by a slender four-point margin that afternoon by 28 points to 24 All the finer details for this season’s semi-finals including the date kick-off times and the neutral venues will be announced in due course WELSH CUP SEMI-FINAL: Newbridge v Pontypridd – all other details TBC Neath gained their second successive win on the road with a hard-fought – in some ways ‘old-fashioned’ – success on their first visit to Newbridge for 20 years Between the end of the Second World War and the coming of leagues these two fine old clubs enjoyed a keen rivalry and Neath wins at Newbridge had to be battled for – nothing has changed the Welfare Ground was in splendid condition and Neath showing four starting changes from the side which won at Brecon were rocked at the start when a perfectly executed line-out drive by the big Newbridge pack resulted in a try by hooker and captain Stuart Vokes which full back Eamon Rees goaled Newbridge controlled possession and the opening exchanges through the good work of their forwards but perhaps they overdid the kicking game and they could find no way through the committed Neath defenders who were well led all afternoon by skipper Ben Williams Neath’s determination and resolve kept them in the game and the All Blacks levelled when sharp replacement winger Ki Morgan nipped in on an interception and raced away to score at the posts and outside-half Steff Williams converted The All Blacks got their noses in front when Steff Williams landed a penalty after a high tackle but this was soon equalled by Eamon Rees and an intriguing half ended in high controversy when Neath centre Kieran Charles sped away on a long run to the line but he celebrated too soon and although his momentum carried him across the try-line The conversion would have been straightforward but Neath had to settle for parity at the interval Neath opened the second-half strongly and they went ahead when good hands paved the way for a second try by Ki Morgan Neath threatened again when flanker Gethin Tremlett’s long kick might have produced better for wing Ryan Griffiths and another strong run by the livewire Morgan backed up by some strong play by the forwards ended in the ball being spilled metres short Neath were denied another ‘score’ when scrum-half Ellis Lewis appeared to touch down near the posts after good driving play by the visiting forwards Yet Newbridge were still a force to be reckoned with as they launched a wave of forward drives which kept the Neath defence fully employed it was still 15-10 to Neath before a Steff Williams-Robbie Turley penalty exchange made it 18-13 and a Newbridge player was very lucky that the referee did not see a nasty and totally unnecessary tip-tackle on Rhodri Wall which forced the Neath centre from the field Neath supporters were incensed  by the incident but their anger turned to joy when great work by Ben Williams and replacement Rhodri Cole freed Kieran Charles who skated in for Neath’s third try thus applying a more clinical end to the second-half than he had to the first Steff Williams’ second conversion made the final score 25-13 to Neath who won an enjoyable encounter between two well-matched teams in which victory was earned through rock-solid defence and superior skills behind the scrum the All Blacks return to The Gnoll for another clash with old Gwent friends when Cross Key visit (kick off 2.30pm) The All Blacks and their supporters will be keen to register their first home win after losing the opener against Merthyr – disappointing as that reverse was and it is notable that Merthyr have since scored the small matter of 151 points in their next two games M.Davies (I.Martin-Lloyd); G.Young (M.Kavanagh) NEATH – L.Evans (K.Morgan); L.Hawkes (M.Jenkins) J.Blackmore (C.Arnold); C.Williams (D.Watkins) Seven men are due in court after being charged in connection with violent mass brawls in Newbridge and Blackwood will appear at Newport Magistrates Court on Monday February 17 after they were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder on Thursday February 13 They had originally been scheduled to appear in court on Saturday February 15 also arrested on suspicion of violent disorder His injuries are not thought to be life-threatening or life-changing Superintendent Michael Preston said: “We understand the impact that this incident can have on the community, and we’d like to offer reassurance that this incident is an isolated one and not linked to previous antisocial behaviour reported in the area. “We’d also like to thank our community for their support and for reporting this to us quickly which allowed our officers to swiftly attend arrest and subsequently see seven men charged “Violent disorder will not be tolerated and we’re proud to work with our community and partners to keep Gwent a safe place to live and work.” Councillors representing Blackwood have been keen to stress that such outbreaks of violence are incredibly rare Cllr Andrew Farina-Childs said: “Despite the unacceptable issues that have occurred in our town recently where Nigel Dix and I along with Blackwood Town Council have raised concerns with the police I would just like to remind people that all the shops cafes and the cinema are still open for business and would encourage people to still come to Blackwood.” https://www.kildarenow.com/section/1005/contact-us All the latest breaking local news from Kildare and county Find whats happening in and around Kildare and Leinster Enjoy our award winning photos and picture galleries taken in Kildare and Leinster Catch up on all the latest business news in Kildare and Leinster Read about the latest properties available in Kildare and Leinster Enjoy our latest and up to date motoring review and news in Kildare and Leinster Kildare and Leinster Met Eireann Weather Forecast Recent death notices and obituaries from Kildare and Leinster Latest environmental and climate change news in County Kildare Gardai at Newbridge, Kildare are appealing for information in relation to a 'hit and run' road traffic collision which occurred on April 5 2025 at 10pm The collision occurred on Standhouse Rd Newbridge at the junction of Standhouse Lawns A young boy was knocked off his e-bike and suffered injuries to his shoulder and ankle a black coloured Volkswagen Golf was travelling from the Curragh direction and failed to stop The vehicle was seen travelling towards the junction of Morristown Road Gardai are particularly interested in anyone who was in the area and who may have seen this black Volkswagen Golf or anyone who has dash cam footage READ NEXT: Applications open in Kildare for prestigious awards Photo courtesy of An Garda Síochána Kildare Outside Naas courthouse are: Susanna Cawley House of Hearing's experienced audiologist Matt Allen Eight men have been arrested and two roads remain closed after two separate fights broke out in Blackwood and Newbridge At around 2.45pm today (Thursday February 13) and paramedics from the Welsh Ambulance Service remain on site Superintendent Mike Preston said: “We’ve brought this disorder in Blackwood and Newbridge to its conclusion and there is no ongoing danger to the public “We currently have eight men in police custody at this time for offences linked to the disorder and they will be undergoing questioning after we understand the full extent of the injuries sustained “If you have any information on the identities of anyone involved or details that could assist our enquires then please contact us immediately WARNING: video embedded from Facebook contains bad language “This behaviour is completely unacceptable and we will take action against anyone intent on causing this level of harm and disorder in our communities.” or by contacting them via social media using log number Blackwood: 2500047958 and Newbridge: 2500047973 said: “This sort of behaviour is obviously not acceptable I’ve never known the likes of it before and it’s a stain on what was once a lovely little valley town but actions such as this will drag our name through the dirt I hope the police handle this without fear or favour and send a message to those involved.” Islwyn Senedd member Rhianon Passmore said she was “deeply disturbed” She said: “I commend Gwent Police for taking urgent action to safeguard law abiding citizens going about their business and the Welsh Ambulance Service for responding swiftly “It is simply unacceptable for the heart of our communities to experience disturbances at any time let alone during the day “I will be asking Gwent Police and the Police and Crime Commissioner for a briefing on what has taken place any possible causes and the proposed actions being taken to reassure the public.” Edited by Brian Byrne. All material ©2005-2025 Kilcullen Diary as published and individually to the contributors concerned. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Editor or the Diary. Submissions and Letters welcome. Email us or phone/text 086 8267104 The Editor reserves the right to refuse to publish any material A Newbridge church is surplus to requirements and can be converted into a convenience store The decision paves the way for the applicant to redevelop the old Newbridge Methodist Church alterations and extension to the existing building According to the agents for the application the new store will sell “basic daily staples” and will serve “neighbourhood needs” They also said the premises would not “undermine” the town’s high street A council report shows there was some local opposition to the plans – with objections centring on traffic concerns and a loss of privacy Caerphilly County Borough Council planning officers noted the authority’s own highways department was “satisfied” with the proposed development and said there will be “appropriate space on site for the turning and access of delivery vehicles” Environmental health officers believe the proposed shop will not “give rise to any unacceptable impacts” on neighbours but have recommended conditions which will limit the opening hours and delivery times at the premises The council planning team also accepted evidence a place of worship at the location is “surplus to requirements” and that there is a “lack of suitable other sites” for the shop was considered but ultimately deemed “unsuitable” because of “insufficient parking” Council planners granted permission for the change of use of the church subject to several conditions including that the shop’s opening hours are limited to 7am to 11pm Monday to Saturday Deliveries to the shop must not take place outside those hours Seven men have appeared in court charged with violent disorder after two mass brawls in Newbridge and Blackwood At around 2.45pm on Thursday February 13 In a statement issued before the court hearing Superintendent Michael Preston said: “We understand the impact that this incident can have on the community and we’d like to offer reassurance that this incident is an isolated one and not linked to previous antisocial behaviour reported in the area A view of the Parnell Park pitch before the Leinster SHC clash between Dublin and Wexford at Parnell Park The Leinster U-20 football final between Meath and Louth has been switched to Cedral St Conleth’s Park in Newbridge because of the condition of the Parnell Park surface The game was originally scheduled for the Dublin venue tomorrow night but because of the condition of the pitch surface where the grass appears to have died in patches