Welsh casino gambles on grand opening tonight

Costing us$ 151,055, it will feature soccer and rugby players, showbiz celebrities plus “movers and shakers” from business and politics in Wales. A 30-strong production team worked through last night to transform Wind Street, laying down a 10m red carpet lined with four 2.1 metre gas flames that will greet guests, and installing high-powered spotlights on Wind Street rooftops.

X Factor star Ray Quinn, famed for his trademark quiff, stylish suits and his love of 1950s and '60s swing music, will be headlining the show, treating guests to a set of “Rat Pack” classics such as My Way and That's Life.

Also performing tonight is Jennie Sawdon, a jazz singer who has performed with the cast of hit West End show The Rat Pack and at the famous Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club in London.

The main gaming floor at Aspers Swansea holds 40 electronic roulette terminals, 20 gaming tables and 20 slot machines. There is a poker area, which can be hired out, and a room for social gaming - such as poker, mahjong and backgammon.

The new entertainment complex has capacity for 1,600 people and boasts a 120-seater restaurant, three bars, an iPod lounge, a beauty parlour, 28 multimedia screens, a stage for live music and entertainment, plus state-of-the- art gaming facilities. It cost us$ 10 million for the fit-out alone, making it one of the most expensive interior design projects the city has seen. Finished in silk, fine woods and stone, the interior used 5,000 light bulbs, 4,000 metres of carpet and 2,500 people working full-time on the project.

“Aspers at Salubrious Place is our flagship site and it is my vision to make it the number one leisure destination in Wales and even Europe. I want Aspers to be synonymous with entertainment and fun, and whether you like gambling or not, I can guarantee there will be plenty to keep you entertained.” Aspinall commented.