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BARMOUTH-raised recruitment entrepreneur Ross Porter has paid tribute to the influence late businessman and rugby benefactor Tony Brown had on his career.

Ross, managing director of  Clear Sky Recruitment, who lives in Blackwood, Caerphilly, but was born and bred in Barmouth, met the former owner of office equipment manufacturer Bisley more than two decades ago.

But despite the length of time since then, the meeting with manufacturer and Newport , South Wales rugby benefactor Tony Brown who died recently aged 86, remains fresh in the business-owner’s memory.

Ross, winner of the Gwent Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2000, said: “I remember meeting Tony Brown like it was yesterday. Although I only had the pleasure of sharing Tony’s company once, it felt like I’d known him for years once we started to speak.  I admired Tony for what he achieved in business and for being a genuinely nice person who always had time for people from all backgrounds.”

Ross said that meeting and receiving the award gave him a boost as he launched his business: “Being recognised as the best entrepreneur in Gwent at the outset of my career meant a lot to me. I guess it was nice to get some recognition for the long days I was working at the time to get my business out of the blocks.

“I’d sold all my possessions to raise funds to start my business back in 1999, so if you can imagine, I was under quite a bit of pressure to make the business succeed.

“I wouldn’t say that winning the award gave me a huge boost in confidence, as I’ve always been a very confident individual, but it did give me the inspiration to push on and to try and make a name for myself in the recruitment sector. Recognition is always nice and I remember feeling really proud to have been voted as the Gwent Young Entrepreneur of the Year.

And, although winning the accolade was welcome Ross says the journey of almost a quarter of a century since then has been  anything but plain sailing.

“It’s been a rollercoaster ride! Like many, I have had good times, bad times, and uncertain times; but I am pleased to say that I am still on the ride! My journey has also allowed me to meet some fantastic people along the way and I am still as passionate about the industry as much as I was when my career began, although a lot has changed over the years.

“There have been many highlights during the last 24 years, however, one highlight that jumps out at me is when I was fortunate enough to have been able to take a group of children who were in foster homes and their foster carers to experience a VIP day in a hospitality box at Cardiff City FC (Ninian Park). I managed to arrange for some of the players to come up to see the kids after the game and to make a fuss of them. Everyone enjoyed the day and the players and the staff were amazing with the kids.

Ross, who is originally from the North Wales coastal town of Barmouth where he retains strong ties, said: “Since an early age, I have just wanted to better myself and my situation. When our children were born, the driving factor changed in order to ensure that they didn’t have to struggle in years to come in the same ways that I did.

“Growing up in Barmouth in the 1970’s and 80’s was special. During those times, the town of Barmouth was full of characters, and I learned a lot about life in these formative years. In general, it seemed like the town had a no-holds-barred sense of humour which I feel helped me in later life.

“When I look back now, I can see and appreciate more the sacrifices that my parents made to provide for myself and my siblings. Times were tough back then, but I had a very happy life as a youngster. We may not have been able to afford the things some people took for granted, but the friendships we forged, and the bond we had, more than made up for it.”

Ross admits he may well have done some things differently if he had his time over but says he retains his optimistic outlook on life and business come what may.

“I wake up at 5.00am every morning, when my opportunity clock sounds its buzzer and I look forward to the day ahead. I guess it’s the not knowing what the day may bring is what gets me up in the morning. I’ve always been an early riser.”

A former leading plastic mouldings works in the south Wales valleys known as the button factory has sold at auction.

The factory, dating back to the nineteenth century and which specialised in the production of dice, plastic games figures and buttons, had employed a workforce of some sixty people.

With a history of manufacturing and skilled employment stretching back many decades, the industrial building and yard at Catherine Crescent, in Porth, Mid Glamorgan, sold prior to going to auction.

Originally built as a slaughterhouse in the 19th century by the coal mine owner of nearby Garth Hall, the property was sold by Newport-based Paul Fosh Auctions.

Precision Tools Ltd. operated on the site from 1961-1984 and DKS Trimmings Ltd from 1984-2019.

With outline planning permission for housing, the property and land listed for auction with a guide price of  £126,000 sold for ‘well in excess’ of that figure.

Debra Bisley, of Paul Fosh Auctions, said: “There was a huge amount of interest in the former factory and land ahead of the sale. The lot sold prior to auction for an undisclosed  price which was well in excess of the guide.”

Debra said: “So many skilled and industrious people worked at the factory over the very many years it was operating, producing all manner of quality goods and niche products which found their way to all the corners of the world.”

Built as a slaughterhouse by a coal mine owner who lived in nearby Garth Hall, during the war the premises were used by the home guard as a drill hall and for storage.

“The premises were then taken over by Thomas and Evans to manufacture wooden crates for their Corona fizzy pop drink bottles.

“In 1961 it was occupied by Precision Tools Ltd and used for the manufacture of trimmings to the clothing trade. The factory manufactured leather buttons and buckles Their products were used by the likes of M&S, sheepskin coat manufacturers and other clothing companies.

“In 1984, due to the death of the founder of Precision Tools Ltd, DKS Trimmings Ltd. was formed by the son to carry on the manufacture of leather goods. Later DKS Trimmings Ltd. moved into injection moulding while still manufacturing leather trimmings. It was the only manufacturer, at the time in the UK, of leather buttons. DKS Trimmings Ltd. also manufactured a range of plastic products, specialising in board game components.

“What’s quite fascinating is that the Porth factory was at one time one of the leading European manufacturers of dice.

“The site that was sold encompasses approximately 0.6 acres, and is comprised of five buildings and a parcel of land to the rear of the site which may allow for further development, subject to the relevant consents.

“There is outline planning consent for the proposed demolition of the existing buildings and for residential development of the site. Further information can be found via Rhondda Cynon Taff Council, reference number: 08/ 0596/13. The property benefits from gas, water and electric (not tested).

“Located in Porth, a 20 minute walk from Porth train station and one minute to the A4058, the main thoroughfare through Porth, the property would seem to be an ideal location for commuters. Furthermore, it is a 15 minute walk to Hannah Street, the main High Street in the town of Porth.”

The former factory site was one of some 100 commercial and domestic properties which went up for sale with Paul Fosh Auctions in its online sale in May.

A former leading plastic mouldings factory in the south Wales valleys which was used as a drill hall by the Home Guard during the last war is facing the last throw of the dice.

The factory was once specialised in the production of dice, plastic games figures and buttons, employing at its height a workforce of some sixty people.

With a history of manufacturing and skilled employment stretching back many decades, the industrial building and yard at Catherine Crescent, in Porth, Mid Glamorgan, is now up for sale.

Originally built as a slaughterhouse in the 19th century by the coal mine owner of nearby Garth Hall. The property, known locally as The Button Factory, is being sold by Newport-based Paul Fosh Auctions.

Precision Tools Ltd formed in 197 operated on the site from 1961-1984 and DKS Trimmings Ltd from 1984-2019.

With outline planning permission for housing, the property and; land is being listed for auction with a guide price of  £110,000 (£126,000).

Debra Bisley, of Paul Fosh Auctions, said: “The property is saturated in fascinating history from the height of industrial manufacturing and mine-owning history of South Wales.

“So many skilled and industrious people worked at the factory over the very many years it was operating, producing all manner of quality goods and niche products which found their way to all the corners of the world.

Built as a slaughterhouse by a coal mine owner who lived in Garth Hall. During the war, the premises were then used by the home guard as a drill hall and for storage.

“The premises were then taken over by Thomas and Evans to manufacture wooden crates for their Corona fizzy pop drink bottles.

“In 1961 it was occupied by Precision Tools Ltd and used for the manufacture of trimmings to the clothing trade. The factory manufactured leather buttons and buckles Their products were used by the likes of M&S, sheepskin coat manufacturers and other clothing companies.

“In 1984, due to the death of the founder of Precision Tools Ltd, DKS Trimmings Ltd. was formed by the son to carry on the manufacture of leather goods. Later DKS Trimmings Ltd. moved into injection moulding while still manufacturing leather trimmings. It was the only manufacturer, at the time in the UK, of leather buttons. DKS Trimmings Ltd. also manufactured a range of plastic products, specialising in board game components.

“What’s quite fascinating is that the Porth factory was at one time one of the leading European manufacturers of dice.

“The site being sold encompasses approximately 0.6 acres, and is comprised of five buildings and a parcel of land to the rear of the site which may allow for further development, subject to the relevant consents.

“There is outline planning consent for the proposed demolition of the existing buildings and for residential development of the site. Further information can be found via Rhondda Cynon Taff Council, reference number: 08/ 0596/13. The property benefits from gas, water and electric (not tested).

“Located in Porth, a 20 minute walk from Porth train station and one minute to the A4058, the main thoroughfare through Porth. The property would seem to be an ideal location for commuters. Furthermore, it is a 15 minute walk to Hannah Street, the main High Street in the town of Porth.”

The former factory site is one of some 100 commercial and domestic properties, which go up for sale with Paul Fosh Auctions from 12 noon on Tuesday, May 16 and end from 5pm on Thursday, May 18.

A house with great potential but needing complete renovation sold at auction.

The decoration, including a caramel coloured bathroom suite, dated interior and a surrounding overgrown garden, failed to deter bidders for the Caerphilly house.

Listed with a guide price of £155,000-plus the three bedroom, semi detached property, at  133, Pontygwindy Road,  Caerphilly, sold online at Newport-based Paul Fosh Auctions for £170,000.

Gemma Vaughan, of Paul Fosh Auctions, said: “Although the house requires complete renovation, both inside and out, including wrestling with the overgrown garden to get it under control,  underneath it all are the basics for a really lovely family home.

“The property does present a few challenges not the least of which is the current decor but bidders were able to look beyond this and see the potential to create a good-sized family home with gardens to the front, side and rear.

“The house offers great accommodation. There is a hallway and two reception rooms on the ground floor with the kitchen and  bathroom with the three bedrooms on the first floor,  all of which would benefit from complete renovation.”

The property comprises entrance hallway, two reception rooms, kitchen and bathroom. The first floor offers three bedrooms. The property which benefits from being a short drive to local shops and amenities with good transport links,  is set in gardens to the front, side and rear.

EXPERT property business disruptor Howard Bowes has the estate agency sector squarely in his sights with the launch of his latest business venture.

Bowes, aged 46, a native of Newport, believes the local property industry in Gwent needs a good shake up and that he and his hand-picked team are the right people for the job.

The bullish Managing Director of Newport city centre based Harvey Bowes Financial Services intends to provide what he calls an ‘alternative service’ with the launch of Harvey Bowes Real Estate,

Rougemont School, Newport,  educated Howard, who is also boss of Harvey Bowes Private Finance, sees it as ‘natural progression’ to launch his eponymous real estate business.

“We have developed a strong Harvey Bowes brand and wanted that to be represented in our new business. People know Harvey Bowes, what it represents and are familiar with the current business. The real estate company will carry forward this business excellence into a new sphere and onto the next level.”

Bowes will head up the new business with Jo Owen as the real estate manager.

Bowes said: “We wanted to get the right structure from the start, so while expansion has created new jobs, we have been strategic and moved Jo Owen across from HBFS to full time real estate manager for Harvey Bowes Real Estate. Jo also worked as my personal real estate manager for my own portfolio.

“This in turn has created two new roles in the existing business; and two new staff started last month in preparation for the transfer. These two people have filled Jo’s roles in HBFS to allow the move. We are eager to continue growing and will now look to build the HBRE team over the next 12 months.”

Why has Bowes chosen this precise time to launch the new business?

“Timing is everything. We have monitored the market and thoroughly researched the requirements and expectations of property buyers in the region. With the uncertainty that has trickled into the market in the last few months we felt that this was an ideal time to provide an alternative service to the other agents currently serving Newport.

“Initially the estate agency will cover Newport and the surrounding area but there are plans  to expand in due course.  We’re aiming to recruit a further two people to the team before the end of the year and open a second branch in March 2024 and a new team within that new branch.  We see a host of opportunities to grow our business in the Newport area and aim to grab these openings with both hands.”

Bowes said: “From our research we can see that Newport homeowners are looking for an agent that is able to fully utilise online opportunities while also having the stability of a traditional physical office. To that end, we are using our main Harvey Bowes Group office, in the centre of the city of Newport, which we have occupied since 2018 and purchased the freehold of in January 2023, as our main HBRE HQ.

“The key to our service is qualification. We don’t mean an obstructive approach of insisting interested parties provide proof of the ability to purchase before they are even allowed to view a property which has sadly become the custom in Newport. But, by asking the right questions and providing a consultative approach, we will employ a professional and welcoming balance.

“We’ll maintain a genuine, professional interest in the potential property viewers, find out what is important to them, what they need, their precise requirements and then recommend the correct properties. This is what we firmly believe home owners, selling in Newport, need.

“Then there is the matter of qualification just before an offer is put forward. Time and again we’ve seen an agent not undertake this properly and the proposed buyer not having the means to proceed to buy the property resulting the property being taken off the market wasting the sellers time. Or an offer is accepted but the agent does not chase it though.

“We’ll ensure that buyers are viewing properties that meet their specification and budget, then when they are looking to put an offer forward, we’ll make sure they are can afford it by proper and professional qualification. And then when an offer is accepted, we’ll keep the transaction progressing by good qualification and transaction progression.

“We bring our service standards as a professional FCA registered company into what we consider is a less regulated and slacker market place.

“We regard the property market in Newport and surrounding areas as being buoyant, with high demand and insufficient stock for sale. Newport is a great city with exceptionally good road links, easy access by motorway and rail to London,  the Midlands, and west Wales. There has been an influx into this area of people moving from Cardiff and Bristol, the latter increasing since the bridge tolls were abolished and continuing now, years later. We don’t see this migration ending any time soon. It’s a universal economic benefit which we intend to exploit.

“Newport city centre is blessed with beautiful buildings and architecture and an exciting series of regeneration projects, from the proposed development of Drill Hall, on Lower dock Street, Newport to the new leisure centre and other riverside developments.

“The Friars Walk shopping centre has been a bonus for the city centre, understandably its seen a hit over the covid pandemic, but I firmly believe with things opening up this should pave the way for new occupiers to be attracted to and to fill, this modern and well-connected city centre.”

 

www.harveybowes.co.uk

SPRING is a time for renewal and a fresh start and that is no more applicable than in the property market.

First time buyers, movers, buy to let entrepreneurs and investors are in the market to secure the best deal available for their specific needs, says mortgage specialist Howard Bowes, of Newport-Based Harvey Bowes Financial Services.

The financial, mortgage and property services business is holding the first in a series a free to attend, mortgage clinics, at its offices in Bridge Street, Newport, from 10am-2pm on Saturday, March 25.

Seasoned property investor and award winning property finance broker Howard said: “The Harvey Bowes mortgage clinic is free to attend and open to anyone looking for up to the  minute advice.

“It may be that people are concerned about  their mortgage and any changes to rates. It may well be attractive to those starting out on the first rung of the property ladder and about to make their first purchase and in need of some advice on affordability. Attending our clinic is a chance to get some free advice from experts in the industry.

” The past year has created a lot of fear in the market in particular for those whose mortgage rates may be  ending or for those who are looking at taking their first steps into property ownership. Our team can offer advice and support on mortgages, utility bills, general expenditure and affordability.”

Howard said financial markets have changed over recent months increasing the difficulty some mortgage applicants have in securing a deal.

“One of the primary reasons why applicants are denied a mortgage is due to their poor credit history. Lenders use credit scores to evaluate the risk of lending money to borrowers and a low credit score can make it difficult to qualify for a mortgage.

“Also if an applicant has a high debt-to-income ratio, it can indicate that they may have trouble making mortgage payments on time. Lenders typically prefer borrowers with a lower debt-to-income ratio.

“If an applicant’s income is not sufficient to meet the lender’s requirements, they may be denied a mortgage. Lenders typically require borrowers to have a stable and sufficient income to repay the loan.

“Another stumbling block can arise if the property being purchased is valued at less than the purchase price. This makes it difficult for the applicant to obtain a mortgage. Lenders typically only lend up to the appraised value of the property.

“Economic conditions can also impact an applicant’s ability to obtain a mortgage. If the economy is in a recession, lenders may be more cautious about lending money, making it harder for applicants to qualify for a mortgage.

“Mortgage applicants, especially first time buyers, can struggle to come up with the down payment required to purchase a home. Many lenders require a down payment, a deposit, of at least 20% of the home’s purchase price, which can be a significant amount of money for many people.

“The interest rate on a mortgage can have a significant impact on the monthly payment and the total cost of the loan over time. Applicants with lower credit scores or who have less favourable financial profiles, may be offered higher interest rates, which can make it more difficult to afford the mortgage repayments.”

Howard said seeking advice from a qualified mortgage advisor can help mortgage applicants to identify, and assist them to overcome, some obstacles to success.

Howard said: “A mortgage advisor has specialist knowledge and expertise in the mortgage industry. They can help applicants navigate the complex process of obtaining a mortgage, provide advice on the different types of mortgages available, and recommend lenders that are more likely to approve their application.

“A mortgage advisor can conduct a thorough financial assessment of the applicant’s income, expenses, credit score, and debt-to-income ratio to determine their eligibility for a mortgage. Based on the assessment, the advisor can recommend ways to improve their financial profile and increase their chances of being approved for a mortgage.

“The advisor has access to a wide network of lenders, including traditional banks, credit unions, and alternative lenders. They can help applicants find lenders that are more likely to approve their application and perhaps offer more favourable terms.

“A mortgage advisor can negotiate with lenders on behalf of the applicant to secure a better interest rate, lower fees, and more favourable terms. This can result in significant savings over the life of the loan. The advisor can also help an applicant to gather the necessary documentation and paperwork required.”

For more details visit www.harveybowes.co.uk

BOOK loving investors with a passion for tourism linked to Gwent’s wealth of industrial history are being attracted to the sale of a shop in a World Heritage town.

Saturated in its own unique past, Blaenavon in the Eastern Valley, optimistically launched  as a Book Town to rival Hay on Wye in 2003, is a UNESCO World Heritage Status site.

Now a shop with accommodation above, 32, Broad Street, Blaenavon, still filled with books to keep even a bibliophile busy, has come on the market.

And another, just a few steps up the high street and currently occupied by a charity, is also for sale at the same auction.

The three storey former book shop, with two floors above, is listed for sale with a guide price of £75,000-plus by Newport-based Paul Fosh Auctions.

Debra Bisley, of Paul Fosh Auctions, who is also selling the other, smaller shop just up the street at 35, Broad Street and listed with a guide price of £52,500-plus, believes the two properties could appeal to a range of potential buyers.

Debra said:” We’ve already had interest from people intrigued by the area which is steeped in history from the dawn of the industrial Revolution at the start of the eighteenth century. While others recognise the opportunities there are for exploiting the potential for these and other properties in this World Heritage town.

“Subject to the relevant consents  the two could be targeted squarely at the tourism markets to take advantage of the history that abounds in the area. There could be the possibility of converting the properties for retail tourism use or perhaps considering conversion for use as AirBNB accommodation.

“Located on the ground floor of larger property is the two room book shop. The mass of books in the shop are included in the sale. The top two floors make up a three bedroom maisonette which can be accessed via the shop or via the entrance to the rear of the property. Additionally there is a head-height basement and a large attic.

“The pair of properties are located in what is the main street in Blaenavon. The larger of the properties holds a prominent core position on the intersection of Broad Street and Burford Street. The smaller property has a retail unit on the ground floor with a one bed flat above..

“Both are ideally situated within walking distance of tourist attractions such as Blaenavon Ironworks, The Heritage Railway, World Heritage Centre and The Big Pit. Additionally, Blaenafon Cheddar Co, which matures its cheeses in the former pit, is located on Broad Street which attracts hoards of  tourists to the area.

“Directly behind the buildings is Lion Street public car park, and Lion Street bus station and are within close proximity to transport links and all local amenities.”

The two Blaenavon properties are included in a catalogue of some eighty properties which are being offered online at the Paul Fosh Auctions sale starting from 12 noon, on Tuesday, March 7 and ending from 5pm on Thursday, March 9.

 

www.paulfoshauctions.com