Anaba Khan

Green Man festival has cancelled its traditional burning of the wooden Green Man figure because drought conditions have created an extreme wildfire risk in Wales. Disposable barbecues and campfires are also banned, although attendees can still place wishes inside the sculpture and organisers plan an alternative closing ceremony. The decision comes as wildfires continue across south Wales, with about 200 military personnel supporting fire crews; one major incident near Llandovery has been downgraded while fires elsewhere remain active. The festival expects about 25,000 visitors per day and has donated 80 passes to firefighters.

Green Man festival has cancelled its traditional burning of the wooden Green Man figure because drought conditions have increased wildfire risk in Wales. The festival, held near Crickhowell in Powys from 20 August, has banned disposable barbecues and campfires, while organisers plan an alternative closing ceremony and will retain the tradition of placing wishes inside the figure. The decision comes as firefighters, supported by about 200 military personnel, tackle wildfires across south Wales. One major incident near Rhandirmwyn has ended, allowing evacuated residents to return, while fires continue elsewhere. Green Man has donated 80 festival passes to firefighters.

South Wales Police has increased high-visibility and plain-clothes patrols on Cardiff’s Taff Trail after reports of youths in balaclavas targeting cyclists and pedestrians, including children. Two boys, aged 13 and 11, were arrested in connection with an attempted robbery near Sophia Gardens and released on bail. Parents described children being kicked, punched, followed and pushed from bicycles, while cyclists said the incidents have created fear along the route. Cardiff Council is supporting the response and plans to increase park-ranger patrols; it also says 831 illegal bikes have been removed and crushed since August 2025.