The Latest Breaking News from Vale

The hidden piece of history was revealed last month by workers digging up Main Street as part of ongoing regeneration works.

Despite two hip replacements that have earned him the nickname ‘bionic man’ in his family, the 65-year-old remains as passionate as ever about the martial art - and still pulls on his gi twice a week to teach karate in the Vale.

Local traders fear they could be forced out of business unless they get more support, with six months of works in the Vale turning residents away.

Cllr Lis Burnett said she couldn't speak when it hit her that she is the new leader of the Vale Council - and the second woman to have held the title at the authority

Cllr Lis Burnett, who will be leading the council, noted that she will be the second woman at Vale council to have held the position of leader

A pilot Alexandria Community Council and new Alexandria Traders Association have been set up, with those involved keen to ensure that mistakes of the past aren’t repeated.

The Conservatives currently have the most seats on the Vale council but lost power in 2019

Neil Moore has served as leader of the Vale council twice, but will step down after the upcoming elections

Plaid have just four councillors in the Vale at the moment but are hoping for more after the May 5 election