Here is your Tuesday update, covering:

• ‘Replica firearm' toting Cowboy Builder jailed at Cardiff Crown Court
• St Mary's R.C. Primary School praised by Estyn for being warm, caring and inclusive
• What's on in Cardiff this February half term
• Do you know a talented young athlete who could benefit from financial support?

‘Replica firearm' toting Cowboy Builder jailed at Cardiff Crown Court

A ‘replica gun' toting, cowboy builder has been sentenced to four years and five months in prison at Cardiff Crown Court for defrauding four victims out of £113,000, after carrying out shoddy and dangerous building work to their Cardiff homes, and for possession of an imitation firearm in an unrelated case.

Daniele Roche, 47, from Porth claimed to a be a qualified bricklayer and capable tradesman who carried out a range of home improvements and building work through his companies - DRJ Builders and DWK Builders.

The court heard last Friday (February 9) that the claims made by Mr Roche were simply untrue. Not only was the defendant not qualified to carry out the work, but he significantly over charged for work he claimed to have taken place, and used pressure tactics and threatening behaviour on his victims when they asked for a refund.

Roche's criminal behaviour took place between November 2021 until July 2022 and involved four different properties in Cardiff. Subsequent independent evaluations of Roche's work resulted in two of the properties being deemed unsafe, with value only added to one of the properties when the second elevation of the property was re-rendered.

Mr Roche pleaded guilty to one count of fraud on October 27th, 2023, and guilty to possession of an imitation firearm when he was on bail for this offence on January 24th, 2024.

Read more here

St Mary's R.C. Primary School praised by Estyn for being warm, caring and inclusive

St Mary's R.C. Primary School in Canton has received praise from Estyn for its warm, caring, and inclusive environment.

During a recent visit by Estyn the Inspectorate for Education and Training in Wales, inspectors shone light on the positive work taking place at the school, with highlights including:

• A Vision of Excellence
• Academic Progress and Support for all
• Broad and Balanced Curriculum
• Leadership and Community Engagement

Overall a positive report, the school will now address three recommendations from Estyn through the school's action plan:

• Ensure that teaching challenges all pupils, including the more able, to develop their independent learning skills.
• Improve provision for pupils to develop and apply their numeracy and digital skills.
• Provide opportunities for pupils to make choices in their learning to develop a more engaging curriculum.

Read more here

What's on in Cardiff this February half term

Whether you are looking for something for the little ones, teens, or something for all the family - the capital is ready to deliver exciting half-term memories this February.

​​​​​​​​​​​We have many free and low-cost activities going on in and around the city that will keep the kids busy this school holiday.

Read more here

Do you know a talented young athlete who could benefit from financial support?

GLL Sport Foundation invites talented athletes to apply for 2024 Sports Awards.

Applications for Britain's largest independent athlete support programme, the GLL Sport Foundation are open until 20th February.

Eligible athletes can benefit from award packages that include:

• Financial grants of up to £1,250
• Free training memberships to use Cardiff leisure centres' facilities (and GLL and partner operated sporting venues).
• Access to sports science, medical support, and employment opportunities.

Find out more and apply here:www.gllsportfoundation.org