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Showing posts from January, 2019

The secret of my success: How to flourish as an independent business

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Martyn Davies, managing director of Siesta Windows Martyn Davies has established the “longest-running independent home improvement company” in the Swansea area. But what's the secret to his success? MARK REES went to find out... Never mind a room with a view, or the hustle and bustle of the city streets. When it comes to a unique office location, they don't come much more impressive than Martyn Davies’s workplace in Neath Abbey. The managing director of Siesta Windows sits in the shadow of what has been described as “the fairest abbey of all Wales”, a historical monument which can trace its roots back to the twelfth century. In stark contrast, Martyn’s complex is packed with ultra-modern showrooms, each one loaded with the latest in home improvement offerings. Behind the shopfront is a vast warehouse-like space where the magic happens, while his personal office, an orderly room stacked with files, folders and a few personal trinkets, is tucked away on the top floor. I

WIN tickets to see Wales v England in the Six Nations 2019

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It's one of the biggest sporting events of the year. Sparks are expected to fly when Wales and England square off in the Guinness Six Nations 2019, and the pressure to perform will be more intense than ever with the Rugby World Cup looming. Rugby fans will be cheering on their team from the bars and their sofas, but nothing comes close to experiencing the big match in person. And while tickets might be like gold dust, here's some good news - we've got a pair to give away to one lucky rugby fan for free! WHEN AND WHERE IS IT: Wales will take on England in the Guinness Six Nations at: The Principality Stadium, Cardiff Saturday, February 23, 4.45pm HOW TO ENTER: To be in with a chance of winning, simply fill in the form below to sign up to our free monthly DASHBOARD newsletter and hit the subscribe button. That's it - easy! And don't worry if you're already signed up to our newsletter, your entry will still be counted. To increase your odds

How to make sure you’re getting the best deal out of your car insurance

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Car insurance can be one of the main things that put drivers off getting a car. With new drivers facing annual costs into the thousands, it’s not cheap to be a motorist on the roads. However, you could be paying over the odds, so here are our tips on how to get the best price on your insurance. 1.       Pay annually Paying smaller chunks monthly may sound like a better option, but over the course of a year you’ll end up spending more. It’s not always possible to pay the cost upfront, but you’ll be expected to pay interest if you pay it monthly. Annual payments might be the better option if you want to save money in the long run. 2.       Use price comparison websites The task of finding insurance can be daunting, but thankfully there are websites you can use to make it a little easier. Be clear on you what you’re looking for, because not all insurance quotes cover the same things. Not all companies put their rates on these websites either, so use them as a base guide a

Why you should switch to an electric car

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As electric cars become more popular, it’s becoming easier to own one of your own. Charging points are popping up all over the country, from shopping centres to supermarkets and even your local pubs! But what are the benefits to taking the plunge and owning your own? We’re here to tell you some of the advantages of going green. Cheaper to run While the average electric car may be a bit pricier than the petrol one you’ve been looking at, you’ll be saving money in the long run. Government grants are available to go towards the cost of purchase - you could save up to £3500 on your next new car. Electric energy is also a lot cheaper than petrol and diesel, meaning you’ll be getting more miles for your money. What you spent on your car you’ll get back in what you saved on petrol. An electric car also has a less complicated engine than a petrol car. This means there’s less likely to go wrong, saving you a few pennies on maintenance costs. If you drive around London, you won’t

How to avoid getting caught out on the roads in 2019

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There are a few new laws coming into effect this year, so don’t let yourself get caught out. Whether you’re a learner driver, recently qualified or have years of experience on the roads, there are new laws coming in that will affect you. We’ve compiled a list of what’s changing so you won’t be facing any fines or points in 2019. Changes in your MOT Alongside new categories for your car to fall in, an MOT will now include a handful of new legal requirements. These will include the inflation of your tyres, brake fluid, reverse lights and daytime lights for cars made after March 2018. Make sure you keep this in mind before your next MOT so that you have the best chance of passing. The new categories let you know the condition of your car. If you fall into advisory or minor, you’ve passed and are legal to drive but be aware that your car might need some repairs. Falling into major or dangerous means you’ve failed, as your car is a risk to the road. Keep clear of cycli

How to avoid breakdowns during the worst of the winter weather

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The cold winter months are the worst time to break down. Who wants to wait for roadside assistance when it’s cold and pouring with rain? But some of the problems your car faces over the winter months can be because of the weather, so it’s important to check your car is in its best condition before heading off. We’ve compiled some checks that you should carry out on your car so you don’t get caught out. Antifreeze Antifreeze lowers the freezing point of your engine’s cooling system, keeping it from freezing when it’s cold. This is crucial for the winter months when the temperatures plummet, or otherwise you can face some costly damage to your radiators. You can get it changed at a garage if the levels are low, but if you decide to do it yourself make sure to read your vehicle’s manual as each car is different. Tyres Although the legal requirement for tyre tread depth is 1.6mm, you’ll be safest with a depth of 3mm or more. This will ensure your car has the best grip to t