Cardiff Times - June 2023

DISCOVER THE

CARDIFF OPEN AIR THEATRE FESTIVAL 22 JUNE - 29 JULY SOPHIA GARDENS

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF WALES’ BIGGEST OUTDOOR THEATRICAL EVENT

Award winning care homes We’re proud to be recognised for our excellence in care. From winning Best Larger Care Home Provider to Catering Team of the Year, we have won more awards than any other provider in the last three years.

If you’re considering care call 029 2000 2706.

Rated

9.8

out of 10 on carehome.co.uk

Trusted to care

Llys Cyncoed care home Cardiff careuk.com/llys-cyncoed

2 CARDIFF TIMES

Hundreds of school-aged students from across Cardiff and South Wales celebrated at grand awards ceremony at the Principality Stadium on Saturday 20 May commitment to their children’s Kumon studies and growth.

Established for almost 60 years and with more than 600 centres in the UK and Ireland, Kumon is one of the leading national after-school education providers, offering both maths and English study programmes for children of all ages and abilities. Kumon exists to provide as many children as possible the opportunity to self-learn by offering a unique and individualised study programme that is tailored to the abilities of each child.

Through Kumon’s unique method, children are able to reach an advanced level of study, often far beyond their school curriculum. The independent study skills they develop help them to approach new work, both at Kumon and at school, with confidence and to tackle any challenges they may face in life head on. Students also develop a ‘can do’ attitude, which they can apply to everything they do.

Families from across South Wales gathered Parents interested in finding out more about Kumon to honour phenomenal success at their in South Wales can contact local study centres via the Kumon website, kumon.co.uk/find-a-tutor/. annual awards.

The Kumon Advanced Study Honour Roll event, on Saturday, 20 May 2023 at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, celebrated over 250 students, among them collecting over 320 individual achievement awards, that mark them reaching advanced levels of achievement in maths and English. Having hosted the first night of global superstar, Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour earlier that week, the stadium’s President’s Suite hosted Kumon families from across Cardiff and South Wales.

The children, aged from 4 to 17 years old, are students of one of 12 Kumon study centres across Cardiff and South Wales and along with their Kumon Instructors and their families, celebrated joining Kumon’s international student recognition programme, ‘Advanced Study Honour Roll’. This means they are studying advanced work in comparison to their peers in the UK, as well as across the globe. The students each received a certificate and a medal, marking their dedication, continued focus and achievements that mean they are now studying up to one, two or even three years above the equivalent school grade-level.

The Kumon study centre leaders and Instructors were joined by the The Right Honourable The Lord Mayor of Cardiff and Lady Mayoress, Councillor Mr Graham Hinchey and Mrs Anne Hinchey in honouring the students and acknowledging and thanking parents for their ongoing

CARDIFF TIMES 3

June CONTENTS 3 The Kumon Advanced Study Honour Roll Event

June 5 Quality Care in Lisvane CONTENTS you can trust 3 The Kumon Advanced 6 Waiting!

Study Honour Roll Event

by Wyn Evans 5 Quality Care in Lisvane can trust 10 And you Another Thing 6 Waiting!

by Vince Nolan

by Wyn Evans

14 In the Word Of 10 And Another Thing

by Carl Marsh

by Vince Nolan 21 Celebrating 10 Years 14 In the Word Of by Carl Marsh

by Lisa Pryce-Jones 21 Celebrating 10 Years 25 Golden Jubilee of East

by Lisa Pryce-Jones Indian Culture

25 Golden Jubilee of East

by Krish Indian Banerjee Culture

by Krish Banerjee 28 Writing To The 28 Writing To The Newspapers Newspapers

by Sara John

by Sara John

33 Cardiff OpenOpen Air Air 33 Cardiff TheatreTheatre Festival Festival 36Fulthorpe Kevin Fulthorpe 36 Kevin – – Chief Inspector (Welsh Chief Inspector (Welsh Area) British Boxing Board Area) British Boxing Board of Control of Control

by Ralph Oates

by Ralph43Oates Ruperra Castle Scheduled Monument risk 43 Ruperra CastleatScheduled 49 Forever Flowers - City Monument at risk Hospice 49 Forever Flowers - City

by Natalie McCulloch Hospice 4 CARDIFF TIMES

by Natalie McCulloch CARDIFF TIMES

Hi All, and welcome to our June edition.

EDITORS LETTER

Welcome

Very late this month going to print. I blame Wyn Evans. Only joking Wyn! Working with new software, so many Bank Holidays and School hastoreally putedition. this issue Hi All, Holidays and welcome our June behind.

Very late this month going to print. I blame Wyn Evans.

Wyn! Working with Wishing youOnly all ajoking super June. new software, so many Bank Holidays and School Holidays has really put this issue Happy reading from all at Cardiff Times. behind.

Wishing you all a super June.

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING 029 2046 reading 3028 from all at Cardiff Times.

Happy EMAIL info@cardiff-times.co.uk WEB ww.cardiff-times.co.uk

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING Follow us on Instagram @CardiffTimes 029 2046 3028 Follow us on Twitter @CardiffTimes EMAIL info@cardiff-times.co.uk www.facebook.com/CardiffTimes WEB ww.cardiff-times.co.uk Follow us on Instagram @CardiffTimes Follow us on Twitter @CardiffTimes www.facebook.com/CardiffTimes

Quality care in Lisvane, Cardiff you can trust

When a family is thinking about care for a loved one, they want the best - they want to know that the care home they choose will put their loved one’s safety, happiness and wellbeing first.

Care UK’s Llys Herbert care home on the outskirts of Lisvane is now open to preview with a grand home opening July 2023. Our beautiful home will provide high quality residential and dementia care for older people. The home is designed to the latest dementia standards with every luxury has been thought of, with its own café, hair salon, cinema and bar.

Living at Llys Herbert will be all about quality of life, with every colleague passionate about enabling residents to enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle.

The lifestyle team will organise a huge variety of group and one-to-one activities, tailored around resident’s unique needs and preferences. There will be plenty going on each day, as well as regular outings and live entertainment.

With the extra support that Care UK offers, new residents are often surprised at what they can do, whether that’s being able to continue with an activity they’ve enjoyed in the past, or even discovering new hobbies with our daily activities.

Whether your loved one enjoys a quiet cup of tea in bed before starting the day, loves going for strolls in the garden, or enjoys a chat over a beer, the team at Llys Herbert will spend time to enable them to continue living life the way they want to.

Llys Herbert is part of award-winning provider, Care UK – one of the UK’s most successful care home operators* with over 40 years’ experience of delivering high quality care to older people. Care UK has more ‘Outstanding’-rated homes than any other provider, and have won more awards than any other provider in the last three years

Llys Herbert care home Ty-Draw Rd,Cardiff CF14 0AW careuk.com/llys-herbert jenny.ashton@careuk.com 029 2120 2697 *As rated by the Care Quality Commission in England and the Care Inspectorate in Scotland.

CARDIFF TIMES 5

Waiting!

Cardiff Times Editor (CTE), Tuesday 23rd May, thinks: Wyn hasn’t submitted his copy for June’s Cardiff Times yet. I wonder if he has forgotten there’s a Bank holiday? That loses us a day from the printing cycle. Admittedly…

Wyn email to CTE, Tuesday 23rd May: Hi Lou, will Thursday 25th be OK? CTE, Tuesday 23rd May, thinks: … Admittedly, he has asked for the occasional deadline to be put back, but that’s OK. He’s never actually broken a deadline. *** It was circa 1966. The Cardiff and District cub scouts clubs were out en masse for the weeklong camping trip at the grounds of Miskin Manor, in the Vale. Memory suggests that the week ran from Saturday afternoon through until the next Saturday morning. I think also, that our parents or guardians were responsible for transporting us there and back. Parents were invited to visit their kids, in camp, on something like the Tuesday or Wednesday afternoon, for sports activities. What can I write to convey the total awfulness of the whole experience?

On the first night we had a chicken meal that was only half-cooked through. A rumour began, which I cannot now give credence to, that Akela and Baloo had got their food packets mixed up and instead of gravy being poured on the chicken, it was Bird’s instant chocolate dessert.

One of the Cub groups developed some sort of mass hysteria that they had been or were being poisoned and threw their plates of food onto the railway lines. (Or onto a road underneath a bridge but I think it was railway lines.) A member of our group got the runs and, I assume was sent home. The weather did no one any favours; our tent of hardy Cubs between us had precious few garments that were both clean and dry and come the Tuesday, when my parents came for sports day, they arrived to find me sitting outside 6 CARDIFF TIMES

byWyn Evans

my tent; my rucksack, coat, daps, boots and sleeping bag packed, with me sitting atop them waiting for mam and dad to take me home.

Dad and mam held a pow-wow with each other and then with Akela. My father took me to one side. He told me that he could see that some things were left to be desired as regards the organisation of the camp but that he would be very disappointed in me if I failed to see it through. What’s more I would be disappointed in myself if I quit. (Me: “No I won’t, it’s horrible, YOU stay here if you want to, I’m NOT”.) I’m glad to say that I did stick it out. You see, dad had entered into a negotiation with me about giving me a reward if I waited until the end of the week.

When I got home the following Saturday there waiting for me was the Subbuteo Table Soccer game I’d coveted for months. *** Cardiff Times Editor (CTE), Thursday 25th May, thinks: Wyn still hasn’t submitted his copy…

Wyn email to CTE, Tuesday 23rd May: Hi Lou, is Sunday 29th OK? CTE, Thursday 25th May, return email: no problem. *** Last week the Boss and I were streaming a movie on Amazon Prime: “Air: courting a legend”.

It starred Matt Damon and Casey Affleck. This is a sports movie about Michael Jordan in theory but it’s more a business thriller which is enjoyable whether or not you like sport. Anyway (there are two ‘anyways’ coming up!), the film contained this classic line, which tickled my fancy and which may appeal to some of you: “A pair of shoes is just a pair of shoes until someone steps into them”. Anyway (and there you are patiently waiting for me to continue) half way through the

Wyn, without sending an email to CTE, thinks: well, it’s Sunday 28th with Bank Holiday Monday to follow. No way will Lou be sending it to the printers until Tuesday… ***

movie my left arm developed a mind of its own.

You know that I have Parkinson’s right? Well this was the first time that the Parky’s spasm truly figured in my life. Sitting innocently, moviewatching, holding a glass of chenin blanc in my left hand, when – ‘kapow!’ – it shot outwards and upwards, too much, to my horror, like a nazi salute, soaking The Boss, the dogs, and our Encyclopaedia Britannicas. Since then I have been waiting for its repeat performance. It’s most unnerving. There was no precursor shake - just full-steam ahead into San Andreas Fault territory.

Happy to announce it’s only been the one so far.

But the waiting is getting to me.

I’m reminded that a good friend’s father was responsible for two little girls going through agonies of waiting and uncertainty. Two sisters, aged ten and eight would be waiting by the front door, bags packed at the start of the weekend.

They were expecting their father, who had left the family home, to collect them for his custody time. Unforgivably, he let them down on a number of occasions, before giving up all pretence at giving a damn, and moving abroad.

Happily, the young girls’ mother was able to turn these upsetting episodes into something memorable, taking her daughters to beaches, on nature rambles, having ice cream afternoons, and book clubs. Our friend has learned to take her father’s promises with a pinch of salt. She’s given up waiting for an apology or any change in his approach to his progeny.

I know that a fair few of y’all have been wondering what’s happened to The Girl in recent columns. So, an apology to those of you who have been used to monthly updates here in the Times (and indeed, many of you opted for daily updates by visiting our Facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/BeatingDownsBarriers).

Well, the truth is that it’s just a very quiet time; there are no trampolining or ballet competitions, or exams (though she does have some maths tests, hooray!), there are no Down Syndrome youth group sessions until early June and her DS Summer camp is not until the last week of term in July for which she has been given permission to absent herself from school to join the antics at Manor Adventure in Shropshire.

She is revelling in the licence that comes with teenagerhood (is that a word?) to do her own things either in her ‘thinking space’, her computer room or her dance space. Trouble is that those don’t make interesting posts for y’all! So I’d ask that you all keep tuning in and waiting for the updates to start flowing again after the holidays.

We’ll do something interesting over half term, with pictures, I promise! ***

Cardiff Times Editor (CTE), Monday 29th May, thinks: he’s cutting it a bit fine…

Wyn email to CTE, Monday 29th May: Hi Lou, please find attached June’s article and associated pics.

Wyn thinks to himself: Phew, I shan’t be waiting so long to get next month’s copy in!

CTE thinks: Phew!

*** CARDIFF TIMES 7

Cardiff Times - June 1_Layout 1 22/05/2023 12:29 Page 1

TOMMYINNIT Annoying at First 22.06.23

DEXYS The Feminine Divine 13.09.23

SIR RANULPH FIENNES Mad, Bad & Dangerous to Know 27.09.23

FOIL, ARMS & HOG Hogwash 29.09.23

PHIL WANG Wang in There, Baby!

03.06.23

BBC CARDIFF SINGER OF THE WORLD 10.06.23 - 18.06.23

HASBRO STARS LIVE 02.07.23

ADRIAN EDMONDSON Berserker!

28.09.23

GRAYSON PERRY A Show All About You 12.10.23

FASCINATING AÏDA The 40th Anniversary Show!

16.09.23

LUCY WORSLEY On Agatha Christie 05.09.23

Cardiff Times - June 2_Layout 1 22/05/2023 12:55 Page 1

TIDDLY PROM Bert’s Magical Musical Kitchen 08.07.23 - 14.07.23

FAMILY PROM Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra 08.07.23

JAZZ PROM CCJO & Jeff Hooper 13.07.23

CLASSICAL EXTRAVAGANZA Philharmonia Orchestra 09.07.23

LAST NIGHT OF THE WELSH PROMS 14.07.23

BRASS & VOICES PROM The Cory Band & Welsh Choirs 12.07.23

ORGAN PROM Jonathan Scott 10.07.23

FOLK PROM The Carrivick Sisters & Tapestri 10.07.23

MOVIE PROM Welsh National Opera Orchestra 11.07.23

‘And Another Thing...’

It’s Quite A Trek To The Stars, Apparently byVince Nolan Before we start, I need to say that sci-fi and space travel are not my things. I know from talking to friends who are experts and devotees that I may be missing out. But alas, they are not for me. However, there have been some decent related stories in the news which caught my eye.

I read about plans for a commercial scale alcohol-to-jet fuel facility coming to Port Talbot which would supply around 1 per cent of the UK’s jet fuel needs. The facility will convert alcohol into sustainable aviation fuel which can reduce the climate impact of flying by more than 70 per cent. Sacrilege if you ask me. It is silent on how it could reduce the climate impact of drinking. It then occurred to me that we call strong drink Rocket Fuel so maybe there’s a link. I also wondered why NASA’s rockets weren’t named with letters rather than numbers. I have since been told that this is because if Apollo F had an accident, they would have to make an Apollo G.

Staying with interplanetary matters, I also read about Elon Musk’s rocket “Starship” which crashed spectacularly (again) in Texas, a few weeks ago. Apart from the cost, I could not fail (although it did) to be impressed by his PR Department spokesperson: “The Starship experienced a rapid unscheduled disassembly.”

10 CARDIFF TIMES

How quaint. However, this story was featured next to one about a bull running amok in a Cambridgeshire village causing the police to shoot it. Presumably it suffered a rapid and unscheduled disassembly before becoming burgered. Did you know they made a perfume that smells like rocket fuel. They called it Elon Musk.

Back down to earth but staying with Cambridge, The Current Mrs Nolan, The Sainted Mother-in-Law and I recently journeyed to Cambridge for a family funeral. I have often heard alleged tales of inter-breeding in more isolated and rural locations around the UK but have never listened to such tales at first hand. It seems that many of the people we encountered had half-brothers and halfsisters in the adjoining villages. Older brothers turned out to be their fathers and similarly older sisters were their mothers. It occurred to us that familial DNA would not work over in the flatlands as everybody would either be a potential suspect or a potential victim.

Conversely, my ancestors are so hard to find, they must have all been in a witness protection programme. And what about the foster kid who became a genetic engineer specialising in hybrid beans? He’s still looking for his biological fava.

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"Imagine that," the drunk muttered.

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Oh please!

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At Here’s one for you: “Knock knock.”

“Who’s there?”

“LiKle old lady.” ewery tour and free beer for the probably go a mile or two in two hours and brewery got on a bus and sat “LiKle ol was ringing me, his second was that he was and she said, “I love you so much, you rather good.

Oh yes it is. " but enough about me.

In it he recalls a tale “Hello.”

– try it in aDr German accent: “If“II need y Student were referring to Who. In my world this you like Van Gogh needed stereo.” never at any speed.

Yet another pathetic cry not from Vodafone and his third that he was “I had no idea you could yodel.” drinking, send me adown sip.

If next you are me Customs Offizis cer cameofonto Fearing some kind trap, and weft).

Of toI could acrying, priest.

The about having chronic flatulence as asend child understand correctly, inhoney ze afirst you Icourt don’t how ever live uld be like driving at 40 mile which for help.

Iknow don’t know if you readaccused the interview in Mumbai and nothours Cardiff.

He place hung up onknow.

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CARDIFF TIMES 11

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CARDIFF TIMES 13

In The Words Of

by Carl Marsh

good, bad, or both. And Arisu, the main character… played effortlessly by Kento Yamazaki, changes from that shy nerdy type into… [no spoilers].

TRAVEL REVIEW

INTRO RANT I can’t offer any rant this month because the sun is out; it’s lovely, and people seem happier. So… there you go. No rant. I might have more if I had watched any news channels, but I don’t. I know many more people that avoid the news these days, as it’s all about whatever narrative a particular news outlet wants to put out. Avoid the mainstream media. Live your life to the full. Stay happy. Surround yourself with positive people. Don’t live in fear of the telly man/woman reading from a script if you accidentally have them on a radio or TV. OK, so a slight rant, but you can see I am mostly putting out a positive message and vibes.

Enjoy your June, Carl.

TV REVIEW Alice in Borderland - Netflix Set in Tokyo, Japan, albeit an alternate reality of Tokyo for most of it, but it’s still set in Japan. I came across this gem via a trailer I saw on Netflix that was advertising season two. My daughter and I binged the first season in a few days. Now we’ve completed season two. I can agree that some similarities have been referenced to Hunger Games, Battle Royale and Squid Game. All those mentioned and this show have that connection of violence, although Hunger Games might be a less graphic watch than the rest. Yet, all have a storyline that hooks you in from the start. What I appreciated about Alice in Borderland was how the games [watch it] got more complex and how the character development kept you guessing who was

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Now that normality has resumed, I’ll be back out and about visiting hotels and places to tempt some of you to venture potentially. This month is all about Qatar. It is a place I’d always wanted to see, and when Qatar Airways invited me there, how could I say no? You’ll be able to read all about it on the next page.

INTERVIEWS Three interviews this month.

Phil Wang brings his show ‘Wang In There, Baby!’ to Cardiff. Hailed as one of the UK’s best comedians, I can’t disagree with that. Oh, and he was born in the same hospital as me! - Saturday 3rd June - St David’s Hall, Cardiff.

Singer/Songwriter Harriet is now touring her second album, ‘The Outcome’, after a gap of 7 years since that debut self-titled album came out in 2016. This new record is full of catchy tunes, which is a massive step up from the first offering. Catch her at Acapela, Pentyrch, on Saturday, 3rd June.

TommyInnit is a YouTuber and Twitch streamer that is more internet famous than most, er… famous people.

Of course, some won’t know who he is, but ask any kid who knows YouTube and Twitch, and they’ll be in awe of him. To put it into context, this guy had over 1 billion views on YouTube by the age of 17. Across his socials, he’s surpassed over 50 million subscribers.

He appears at St David’s Hall on Thursday, 22nd June, with his two friends and fellow YouTube stars, Badlinu and Jack Manifold.

Have a great June, and see you all next month!

Carl Marsh Twitter - @InTheWordsOf_CM YouTube - InTheWordsOf

Qatar - Travel Review With talk of Qatar Airways recommencing flights out of Cardiff once again since 2020 when Covid put a stop to them, I thought it was time to highlight what Qatar has to offer. Thanks to the FIFA World Cup in 2022, Qatar has been on everyone’s lips for a few years, but now it’s been and gone. Most travellers will likely stop off at Doha’s Hamad International Airport en route to destinations such as The Maldives, Seychelles, Malaysia, and many more. And as a stopover, it would be a shame not to spend a few days seeing what Doha, and potentially the rest of Qatar, has to offer.

One of my first thoughts about arriving in the capital, Doha, is pure class, even after having the luxury of flying Business Class on one of Qatar Airways latest planes! I have never felt this overwhelmed by how clean, vibrant and efficient this place is.

Doha never failed to impress me, such as after travelling to my hotel and checking in, then walking around a shopping area and experiencing cold airconditioning coming from the street into the open air is a feat of marvel, and not the central drawer to Qatar. Still, you can’t fail to be impressed by it.

gastronomic concept that takes guests on a sensory journey through Qatar’s rich heritage and unique landscape, which is very befitting considering it’s at the National Museum; itself is a marvel to behold, both inside, and out. You’ll learn all about Qatar, its traditions, people, and how pearl diving was how Qatar made its living before the discovery of vast gas and oil fields made Qatar the most prosperous country in the world.

There are many more offerings for the short or long-stay visitor, Doha has so much to do. However, of the things I got to see, the National Museum of Qatar is one of two offerings that stood out for me, as I only got to see a few things in my time there, so these, by all means, are not the only things to see.

No visit to Doha should be without seeing the Souq Waqif, the second choice of the two main highlights of my trip to Qatar. This place has the romanticism of being stuck in a time long ago, not changed in centuries apart from some of what you can purchase from its shops. Don’t be afraid to haggle. It’s the done thing and not as daunting as one would expect. You can walk into a falconry shop with falcons on show, visit a games room and watch where traditional Qatari games are played, such as Dama; somewhat of a more complex version of American checkers, and Carom, which has elements of chess, billiards, and shuffleboard.

You can also walk outside and see camels standing meters away on the sand. This authentic and traditional Doha is centuries apart from its modern version, yet only a stone’s throw away.

One word is all I need to describe Qatar, both past, present and future: ambitious. I hope that I can go back soon.

Words by Carl Marsh

I stayed at the InterContinental Doha The City.

This centralised and luxurious hotel boasts some exquisite fine dining selections if that is what you desire; if not, you have less formal options too. And the breakfast selections… where do I start?

When it comes to eating out for food, which is what you’ll want to do to ease hunger pains whilst shopping or sightseeing, there is everything from Western chains to traditional delights. One such place to note on the fourth floor of the National Museum of Qatar [more on the Museum further in this review] is Jiwan. This is the second Alain Ducasse restaurant to open in Qatar. Boasting a contemporary Qatari menu, Jiwan is an immersive CARDIFF TIMES 15

Wang: “I used to be sillier than this when I was a kid.”

Carl Marsh It makes perfect sense that your tour [Phil Wang: Wang In There, Baby!] has been extended to play at more venues around the UK, as I believe you sold out all of your gigs - in advance - at the Edinburgh Fringe last year?

Phil Wang Yeah, well, that first happened in 2019. And so all the tickets had gone before the Fringe had started.

And everyone congratulated me, but I’m so averse to praise that I just beat myself up for not choosing a larger venue! [Laughter] So that’s an insight into my mind. And then, last year, I did a sort of midweek in a big venue. And yeah, I think that also sold out in advance, so I’d put on a couple of extra shows. So, yeah, I’m very grateful for that. And so we’ve gone for big venues this time around, on this tour, and I may have bitten off more than I can chew. But I’m now at a point where I’d rather everyone who wants a ticket can get one. I think I’m sort of past the point where I’m more about like, “I sold out… in brackets, [a small room]. [Laughs]. That’s in my past now. “I’ve sold out: 60 seats” [Laughter]. So that was a very important part of my early development. But yeah, now, it’s about getting as many people to see me as possible.

Carl Marsh Is there a theme for this tour, as the title [Wang In There, Baby!] doesn’t give much away?

Phil Wang I’ve never really had themed shows that… I think Jerry Seinfeld once said that every stand-up comedian only really has 10 minutes or something like that. Basically, the stand-up talks about the same thing for their entire career, and I think that is roughly true. I talk about being mixed race and Asian versus traditional British culture. I talk about my family a bit, but mostly this is just the silliest show that I’ve ever done. And so I was looking back at my old stand-up, and I thought: “Wow, I’m very serious, actually”. I used to be sillier than this when I was a kid. And so now I’m trying to recapture some of that old silliness. And yes, this is the silliest show I’ve done.

If there is a theme, and there’s not much of a theme, but in the artwork for it, I’m pulling that silly face, and it’s got a goofy title. I guess there’s some stuff about being older: buying a sofa and having, like, my own kitchen… [Laughter]. It’s just stuff that I’ve noticed. So I write notes on my phone if I think it might be funny.

Then I try to sort of work it onstage… and eventually, it becomes an hour of stuff.

Phil Wang: Wang In There, Baby! - St David’s Hall, Cardiff - Saturday 3rd June.

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Harriet: “I think it’s important to be selective.”

Carl Marsh So, new album, new tour. Are you itching to get going?

Harriet I’ve just been taking in the last few weeks, with the album coming out and everything. It’s just been so amazing. And I feel very grateful for all the wonderful responses I’ve had from people.

Carl Marsh And rightly so because I have to say the album’s [The Outcome] got a good mix of tracks compared to your debut self-titled album you did back in 2016. It just sounds very different. So the maturity is there but for me… The first album was more about people hearing your voice, whereas this new one is about people discovering your talent.

that, in Sweden, where I recorded the whole record, actually in Stockholm. I knew that it was going to be the title. It just felt really; I don’t know, the lyrics… the feeling of it felt quite deep and profound. And I thought this is a nice way to bookend the record after ‘Story Of My Life’ being at the beginning. But yeah, I always thought that would be the title track. Because the song itself is about, you know, forget the outcome, stuff the outcome. Whatever happens, go with the flow and ‘Story Of Your Life’ has a similar sentiment. So the record just kind of organically ended up being about that as a whole.

Carl Marsh And you’re at Acapela once again. You must love this venue?

Harriet Yeah, I performed there a few times. For the last tour I did, I did a live physical-only album, which is like a Harriet fan thing during the pandemic. It was called ‘Piano Oh, well, that’s very kind. I appreciate that. And I’m Sessions’. It was just me and my pianist. And because pleased that you mentioned the kind of difference in of the pandemic, it was easy to tour just the both of tempo because I did want this record to be more of us. So I haven’t done something with a live band, a full having a different energy. And I think that moments like setup, for quite a long time. So it’s going to be quite ‘The Outcome’, the last track, that they have more of daunting but exciting. a moment, you know when it’s just one of them. And, yes, I’m pleased that you feel that way. It definitely Harriet - Acapela, Pentyrch - Saturday 3rd June. does feel like I’ve grown quite a bit since my first album.

CARDIFF TIMES 17

TommyInnit: “Like it was tough. I wanted to quit YouTube.”

Carl Marsh As a YouTuber who is used to getting millions and millions of views to your videos and insane numbers of subscribers, it is an accomplishment in itself, but how’s this tour set out?

TommyInnit I guess it’s me explaining how to be a YouTuber and using the same skills, humour, and things people like, but turned onto a stage. We have a big screen. And I’ve already done a show video too.

the further on you get, the bigger you get as a sort of weird unasked-for responsibility and then the other things that come with it. And the show, I guess - as well as being funny - is a behind the scenes for my audience but is also for parents explaining that most kids in the world want to be a YouTuber right now. So this is what it’s actually like, you know? And it’s not all what you think. And there are real details of privacy and things you’d never expect from just talking rubbish on the internet that come from it, like getting recognised constantly on the street.

Carl Marsh How are you dealing with all this fame? I presume I love being on a stage, and rather than having comments it wasn’t something you went out yearning for. It was just making and having fun with the videos. Oh, like [left on YouTube], “LOL”, this is real people, and getting feedback from them. I think it’s just gonna [sic] be and maybe making a little bit of money out of it, you know? super funny. It’s a big story as well told live, that people will love.

TommyInnit Yeah… Writing the show has been very cathartic for me Carl Marsh because it’s one of the few things (that) I didn’t really You must get so many questions about how you got talk about in early 2021. Like it was tough, I wanted to to be as big as you’ve become via YouTube, as we quit YouTube because this thing started as just fun and could probably joke by saying it’s just you talking talking to my mates. Then suddenly, all these sorts of new nonsense and making videos of you playing video privacy boundaries were being crossed. I also can’t talk games. Yet, I wouldn’t be too far off the mark. about them publicly because it flairs them up if I do. So using the show is like a vessel to be super honest with my TommyInnit audience and with the parents because pretty much like Yeah, and that’s what the show explores. Because for no other YouTuber has done that because they don’t want me, it started when I was a kid in school watching these to talk about that stuff publicly. But I do! [Laughs] other people talk rubbish. Then I’m talking trash until suddenly you’re almost in a lawsuit because someone else owns the rights to ‘TommyInnit’, and suddenly TommyInnit: Annoying At First - St David’s Hall,

Cardiff - Thursday 22nd June.

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Viney Hearing Care

How do you clean your ears?

In my years of being a Hearing Audiologist I have been told many stories about what people clean their ears with from the everyday cotton swabs to pens, paperclips, hair grips, glasses arms, car keys. I’m sure nearly everyone reading this is guilty of sticking something in their ears they are not supposed to so I’m going to explain why the old wives tale ‘nothing smaller than your elbow’ is so true.

Our ears are designed by nature to be both self-cleaning and self-protecting and that’s why by using the wrong cleaning methods, you risk causing injury to the ears, damaging your hearing or even causing infections.

Earwax (also called cerumen) is necessary for the ear's self-cleaning mechanism to work properly. Earwax is manufactured by glands in the skin of the outer ear canal, the hole through which sound travels to the eardrum. Earwax serves several important functions. It coats the skin of the ear canal, repelling water and helping to protect it against injury and infection. It also helps to keep the skin inside the ears from

FREE hearing tests & advice with the latest diagnostic equipment FREE demontrations of the newest hearing aid technology FREE lifetime aftercare service Micro-Suction wax removal. The safest way to remove wax Service, repair and calibration of ANY hearing aid Video Otoscopy fibre optic camera to show the condition of the ear Speech Analysis - testing how well your hearing aids allow you to hear speech

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getting dry and itchy. In addition, earwax traps dust and germs, keeping them from reaching the eardrum. Usually, you don't need to do anything to help this natural cleaning process unless you suffer from an impaction that may have to be removed.

Trying to forcibly remove the ear's protective wax layer or stop an itch can damage the delicate skin of the ear canal or puncture (put a hole in) the eardrum.

This can increase your risk of infection and lead to a permanent hearing loss needing either surgery or a hearing aid to correct the

impairment. So it is best to leave the inside of your ear alone and not disturb its natural environment. This means no cotton swabs, no fingers and certainly no sharp objects, keep your hair grips for holding your hair back and keep your car keys for unlocking your car!

The ear canal is narrow and curved, consequently some people are susceptible to getting blockages of wax, skin, foreign objects, debris from infection. If a blockage is present you may notice your hearing seems, dull, there may be a ringing sound in your ears, your ears may feel full become itchy or ache. If this is the case you will need to have it professionally removed.

Although there are several methods to clean your ears such as syringing, sprays and drops, Microsuction is renowned as the most efficient and the safest. It is highly recommended by GP’s, audiologists and ENT consultants. Microsuction of an ear canal is performed under direct vision using a microscope. The ear canal is cleared using gentle suction, proving to be the most effective way to clean the ears reducing all risks of infection.

Viney Hearing Care ...introducing Micro-Suction

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Viney Hearing Care is now the first hearing centre in Swansea to offer Micro-Suction, the SAFEST way to remove wax. No more ear Call today as there syringing necessary, there is no are longer any need to pump water into limited spaces the ear to remove wax. It is performed under direct vision using a microscope using gentle suction and instruments to clean the ears. The ear canal is narrow and curved and can become blocked with: wax, skin, debris from infection and foreign objects. This can cause your hearing to become dull and the quickest relief is microsuction. If you are having problems and dull hearing, itchy ears, blocked feeling, it could be wax blocking your ear canals.

Come and have a FREE ear health check to determine if wax is the problem.

We will use a fibre optic camera to view and assess the condition of the ear canal and ear drum. If we find that the ears are blocked with wax, microsuction is the safest way to remove it.

Micro-Suction and Ear Health Check

02920 250121 www.vineyhearingcare.co.uk Viney Hearing Centre, 66 Merthyr Road, Whitchurch, Cardiff CF14 1DJ

Celebrating 10 years!

This month Hypnotherapist and Healer Lisa PryceJones based in Newport celebrates being in business to help people.

Lisa became a Hypnotherapist after personally overcoming a chronic auto immune disease by embracing complementary therapies. Whilst she started by offering Hypnotherapy, she subsequently shared her passion for Healing and now offers a variety of Healing modalities including Spiritual Healing, Reiki Healing, Crystal Healing and most recently Māori Healing.

Most of Lisa’s clients opt for her combination package which includes a Hypnotherapy session followed by a Reiki session which is supported with talking therapy based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy principles.

Her passion has taken her to both Japan (Reiki Healing) and New Zealand (Māori Healing) and she has embraced the respective healing arts from very experienced teachers.

Whilst she supports people with a wide range of issues the most commonly presented issues includes anxiety, stress, overcoming fears and phobias (flying, driving, spiders), changing habits (eating healthily, reducing alcohol, stop smoking, hair pulling), increasing confidence and performance (exams, work related, presentations, sports, sexual), pain management and overcoming trauma.

In her full-time practice Lisa offers one to one therapy sessions and also teaches both Reiki and Hypnotherapy.

In the current economic climate, especially with the cost of living crisis having a psychological impact upon so many people dealing with stress and uncertainty, there is a great need to increase personal resilience and develop effective coping strategies. Whilst traditional methods such as exercise, meditation

and talking therapies can offer some relief very often deeper work needs to be done to address the root cause to make lasting change.

Hypnotherapy unlocks the power of the mind by inducing a deep level of relaxation with heightened focus where deeply ingrained beliefs and emotions reside. Using Hypnotherapy and reframing perspective, limiting beliefs can be overcome and resilience built. This is achieved by using guided visualisation along with positive affirmations and suggestions which all help to rewire thought patterns, reduce anxiety, promote relaxation and overall enhance well-being.

Healing activates and strengthens the immune system, relieves anxiety and stress, removes trauma, relieves pain, increases injury recovery rate, rebalances the body, and promotes deep relaxation and peace within the body and mind.

To find out more about how Lisa can help you with: •

one-to-one therapy

•

learning how to give Reiki to yourself (and your friends and family too)

•

becoming a Hypnotherapist Practitioner

Just get in touch now as Lisa would be delighted to offer you a complimentary telephone or Zoom consultation to discuss your issues and share how she could help you with a personalised therapy plan.

Love & Light

Lisa

Lisa Pryce-Jones Hypnotherapist & Healer www.hypnotherapyandhealing.co.uk lisapryce-jones@outlook.com / 07427 451992

CARDIFF TIMES 21

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Golden Jubilee of East Indian culture

by Krish Banerjee

We are a South Wales based charity promoting cultural exchange and integration through celebration of several Indian festivals and events while integrating with the local community. We also support local and international charities and aim to create a legacy for the next generation.

‘Wales Puja Committee’ (WPC) has been in existence for the past 50 years in South Wales. Each year we celebrate our festivals from India, particularly those from the East of India. We offer an open platform for any cultural groups in and outside of Cardiff to participate in our events and indeed multiple cultural groups do perform regularly in our festivals. We have raised funds for several UK based charities including the Alzheimer’s Society and Noah’s Arc Children’s Hospital. Thus, ‘giving’ forms a core part of our philosophy and belief. Our events also usually have the authentic cuisine from the East of India mostly prepared by our own members.Love is not something that you do. Love is something that you are.

Each year, we also produce our indigenous cultural acts based on our heritage of Indian culture by our own members. The performances could be theatre, musical drama, Indian classical dance etc. There is also an annual souvenir showcasing the enormous talents - every year, published unfailingly at the celebration of the festival of Goddess ‘Durga’. In 2022, some of our senior members were recognised and felicitated at the prestigious United Kingdom Bengali Convention. Recently, four members were nominated in the Ethnic Minority Welsh Women Achievement Association awards and Ethnic Minority Women in Welsh Healthcare awards.

Two of them eventually won.

celebrating it with the utmost joy and pride. We have planned a few events throughout the year to commemorate the 50th year.

In fact, the Mayor of Cardiff is expected to grace the main event of ‘Durga Puja’ (worship, festival & celebration of Goddess ‘Durga’ – the icon of women power and victory over evil forces) scheduled in October 2023. This year we’re also doing an idol restoration project of Goddess ‘Durga’ which is a very exciting and unique project in itself – over a period of 9 days.

The project will involve a professional artist from India, our members and even children from local schools which would be a part of their education on global religion and culture.

Our historic 50th year will also witness another historic event – the worship and prayers during the festival of ‘Durga Puja’ will be conducted by a Priestess and this too, is unprecedented in Wales and probably in the country as well.

For more information visit: www.walespujacommittee.com

So, this year, as we are celebrating our Golden Jubilee – it’s a feat which no other cultural group from India, based in Wales, has been able to achieve yet. Hence, this is a historic occasion not just for us but for Wales too and we are

CARDIFF TIMES 25

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WRITING TO THE NEWSPAPERSby Sara John Some time ago, after moving on from being “Disgusted, Dinas Powys” I risked writing occasionally to newspapers on issues on which I felt strongly or to contribute appropriate stories or items of particular concern.

Here are a small selection from the last decade or so, which The Observer, the Times, The Scotsman, The Glasgow Herald and others, saw fit to print.

When these are responses to material originating in a newspaper unfortunately it is not possible to reproduce here the original item therefore what follows is therefore only my side of the story.

To the Sunday Herald

should keep you safe and never to be located in future.

Be early. The atmosphere will be electric. Learn all the words to ‘Delilah’. Talk to your neighbours. Topics must include which positions have been decided on and which have not. Also, what a lovely girl Katherine Jenkins is. Do not mention The World Cup. Or Cards of any colour or any description.

You will need a clean hanky for the Anthems. Do not be surprised at the Welsh spectators singing Flower of Scotland, it will almost be as loud as the Welsh Anthem. You will never hear it sung like this except at Murrayfield. Welsh singers never waste a good song.

And, they believe both anthems have to be heard in Heaven, as well as Galashiels and Tonypandy.

Afterwards, high teas are hard to find, teas in Wales are generally quite low. Best to follow the crowd. Do not miss out.

Have a wonderful time and do not forget it does not matter who wins as long as it’s not………. !

----------------------

To The Glasgow Herald WARM IN THE WEST, COOL IN THE CAPITAL

WALES V SCOTLAND IN CARDIFF ON SATURDAY

Dear Editor,

Dear Editor,

As an outsider, from Wales, I would like to comment on the friendliness of Glasgow people (Tale of two cities, Letters,

As a Welsh woman now resident in Edinburgh, I offer a few words of advice to Scottish Rugby supporters attending the match in Cardiff, especially those going for the first time.

A ticket is not essential. You can stand outside the Millennium Stadium and follow the match from the noise inside the ground. There is no long walk to or from town. You are in both places at the same time.

You will all be made very welcome. For extra special attention from the fairer sex I recommend dressing as Scottish as possible. But be warned Welsh Women are dangerous. Kilted Scots report being “practically molested”.

Following a possible interrogation and threatened strip search by the Welsh girls, I strongly advise you to have an alias handy to use if under pressure, (always worse if Wales wins), such as “Jimmy Tomintoul from Orkney.

Presently working on oil rigs all over the world”. That

28 CARDIFF TIMES

December 15). When I first visited Glasgow last year I wondered how so many people (like everyone) I had contact with made me think, “they must know me from somewhere”.

On the other hand and a mere 50 miles away in Edinburgh where I now live, I am convinced the inhabitants have been enrolled in a mass witnessprotection programme and given clear instructions not to give anything away.

-------------------

To The Scotsman SCOTTISH RUGBY Dear Editor, Allan Massie writes with concern about the ‘fortunes

and reputation’ of Scottish rugby and proposes finding a better way of ‘managing the transition from amateur youth to adult professional’.

I write to offer a few ways forward based on following and observing International Rugby in Wales since well before the glory days of the seventies. And, ever since.

Wales never had academies, but they did have grammar schools, with under age specific fifteens.

These made a good start for developing players. Wales also has a strong sense of Welshness so far as the game was concerned, with many players having a useful working knowledge of the language. This gave them an advantage, yr hen iath (the old language) gave them useful words in Welsh to use as a secret means of communication on the field of play.

More importantly there were three other activities which were said to be highly influential in the later very successful careers of many of the household Gods (or players as the opposition might refer to them).

Firstly, in South Wales playing soccer in the street or in the local park, was the main outdoor activity. Good soccer players made better rugby players.

Secondly, most of the towns and villages had very popular Boy’s Clubs with basketball courts, dedicated coaches and a network of teams, leagues and competitions. The keen high/hand coordination, quick footwork and allround dexterity required for playing

basketball was instilled in young men at a very early age and never forgotten.

Thirdly, when the Welsh team was seen to be struggling in more recent times “someone” had the inspired idea of sending the players to train with a leading modern dance company in Cardiff. Now, that was fresh thinking outside anyone’s box.

Allan Massie writes that the coach Vern Cotter cannot wave a magic wand and put things right, but he will certainly not be short of advice from others, myself included.

-------------------

To The Observer SPIT SOAKED FEATHERS Dear Editor, There were spit soaked feathers on the breakfast table on Sunday Morning as I read Philip Inman’s article (Boomers Mania for saving leads to economic madness). Surely The Observer, as such a wellrespected newspaper, should know better? A little bit of research would have provided sound statistics regarding regular readers’ profile including average ages!

The article accused me and many, many others of my age group of being ‘in the pursuit of the holy grail of

CARDIFF TIMES 29

wealth’. (A mixed metaphor if ever I have read one). In addition to this crime, we were being held responsible for wanting to keep saving as they (we) move into (our) 80’s and 90’s.

How dare we? Such irresponsible behaviour! We must be ashamed of ourselves! Or are we?

For one, I am not.

It has taken me a lifetime of hard work and long hours to accumulate sufficient funds to open my bank statement without a brief prayer; I now take a taxi when I need to; I can have the lobster lunch on the menu; I can buy a new hat if I wish to even though I am not getting married – again.

I grew up in South Wales just after the War and benefitted from the Marshal Plan, Mr Beveridges’ report (as a child I thought it was about how good Ovaltine was for you, their adverts were everywhere) and Rab Butlers’ Education Act. The background to life was in black and white: there was poverty of experience and poverty of opportunity. All set against a backdrop of staunch non-conformity and left wing politics. In fact in the Rhondda Valley, being left wing was considered to be middle-of-the-road.

For me and many others there were no bicycles, no

30 CARDIFF TIMES

holidays, no cars, no telephones, no treats, no eating out, few new clothes. In fact, almost until I was on my way to grammar School, there were many goods which we post-war children had no knowledge. For example, books you could actually keep and did not need to take back to the library, were not available or very expensive, or still very scarce.

But at Sunday School there were tales of bushels and talents, there were stories of wise and foolish virgins. I listened, I learnt. However it would be some time before I understood the almost forbidden word, virgin. I only noticed it on little bottles of olive oil. I never asked.

However and this is, for me the most important ‘however’, there was a first class Public Library within walking distance.

I persuaded both my parents to join so that I could use their lenders tickets as well as my own. But it was still a toss-up on a wet winter’s evening between a 3d bus ride home or getting soaked while enjoying a bag of chips walking home through wet gas-lit streets.

Like many of my cohorts I worked hard all my life and well beyond retirement age. A good job meant I could provide comfort for my parents while they were still able to enjoy it, modest though their needs were. All

those old-fashioned values of thrift, no waste, make do and mend, do not borrow, or, even worse do not borrow money, are still very much part of my way of life. Because of that I, and others are berated for putting something away for security, emergencies, minor operations and treats. Are we now to blame for the economic circumstances this country is in? If we had not saved previously when we could, there would be fewer sources today for the younger generation to borrow from. Then there was no provision for young people, often students with no income, to have credit cards as is the norm today.

The article included the notion that “older savers resist spending some of their pension”. That is simply because we lived through hard times, and, we were aware of even more difficult circumstances suffered by our parents’ and grandparents’ experiences.

------------

Letter to The Royal Treorchy Male Voice Choir CONCERT IN MURRAYFIELD Dear Dean, What a night! We brought friends with us who had never before heard – up close – a male voice choir going “full pelt” We sat near the front row, dead centre. It was just as well.

Most of the audience were Edinburgh folk, dressed up and prepared for a nice concert. When the choir opened with ‘Men of Harlech’ the two front rows were almost blown backwards with the enormity of the sound. It was clear to me that they had not, previously witnessed the Power of the Force that is “The Treorchy”.

The concert continued with a delightful programme of hymns, arias, romantic tunes, folksongs and music from the shows. The applause was deafening, the compere and host for the evening, Dean Powell had to pause before making each introduction. The clapping went on and on. And on.

Club’s hops in Ton or Ystrad in the late 1950s.) The applause from the standing ovations that NEVER happen in Edinburgh ringing in my ears, and that triple amen forever in my heart.

That night I was reminded that the Rhondda experience continues to obliterate boundaries and any degrees of separation are instantly removed when those affected by it meet up.

So far as Treorchy Male Voice Choir is concerned the Scottish question is, will ye no come back again?

------------------

To The LETTERS Editor, Ashley Davies, The Scotsman SCOTTISH SOLDIERS Dear Editor, The poignant front page photograph of Scottish soldiers in yesterday’s World War One supplement (July 8) brought to mind meeting an elderly man at my father’s funeral in Wales in 1974. Old Mr Morris as he was known in the Valley was particularly pleased to meet my husband, whom he greeted warmly as a “Scotchman”.

He went on to relate his particular affection for the Scots. Like many others he had been less than honest about his age (fourteen at the time) to join up in 1914 and had found himself, with his brother soldiers in ‘dire straits’ somewhere in France not long afterwards.

Surrounded by the noise of heavy bombardment, fragments of hymns being sung by others the Sergeant suddenly called out for ‘quiet!’ Everyone listened to what Old Mr Morris said was the most awful terrible noise. “What is that?” the boy soldier asked fearing the worst. “That my boy” said the sergeant is the sound of the ladies from hell. Scotch boys playing their bagpipes.

Thank God they have come to save us.

--------------------

The choir had plenty of voice, melody and variety in their programme. Stamina too because I discovered later that a number of them had, that afternoon been singing on the Royal Mile and collecting even more cash for the Wooden Spoon charity. That reminded me of the groups of miners who sang in the streets of London during the Depression when Paul Robeson, who was appearing in the West End at that time, heard them and a deep friendship was formed between him and the people of Wales the memory of which endures to this day.

I left the event having spoken to many of the singers, (one or two I might well have danced with at Boy’s

CARDIFF TIMES 31

Cardiff Open Air Theatre Festival The biggest outdoor theatre event in Wales opens THIS MONTH! and Cardiff Times readers have a final chance to bag free tickets: read on to find out how…

Now in its fortieth year, the Cardiff Open Air Theatre Festival holds a special place in memory for many: “I first saw a production at the Festival when I was a student at Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama back in the nineties,” says actor and director Greg Ashton. Three decades later, he’s taking the reins at the same Festival he loved as a student, directing both the cult classic musical The Addams Family and the fun “Super Sheep” family shows. “It’s a huge honour to direct for the Festival now,” he adds. “To be asked back for their 40th anniversary in particular is mindblowing!”

“It’s a privilege to be back at the Festival for another year, with a fabulous show and a wonderful cast,” agrees Simon West, returning this year to direct Calendar Girls after wowing crowds with the hit comedy Blackadder Goes Forth in 2022.

Also returning are the famously high-octane young performers of Go Productions: “We’re delighted to be back at Sophia Gardens for our ninth fabulous Festival family show,” enthuses Go’s Emma-Jayne Parker. “We can’t wait for everyone across Cardiff to join the revolt with Matilda Jr!” Finally, A Midsummer Night’s Dream brings the Festival to its triumphant conclusion in late July. “Shakespeare’s masterpiece strikes bells as current today as when the play was written,” notes director Paul Clements. “If you’ve ever been in love, fulfilled, disappointed, enchanted - this is an evening for you.”

For you, indeed, and for everyone: with comedy, musicals, drama, music and more, the Festival offers something for all, whether you are a long-time theatre enthusiast or simply looking for a vibrant evening out: explore the full programme at www.cardiffopenairtheatrefestival.co.uk.

And YOU could go for free! Festival organisers Everyman Theatre have partnered with the Brewhouse & Kitchen in Sophia Gardens to offer readers the chance to win an unforgettable evening, with a meal for two and a pair of tickets to any Festival performance!

Simply answer this question by 20th June for your chance to win:

What sort of mythical creature is Queen Titania in A Midsummer Night’s Dream?

Send your answer to: festivalcompetitions@ everymantheatre.co.uk. The lucky winner will be contacted by email within 7 days of the closing date. Full T&Cs at www. cardiffopenairtheatrefestival.co.uk.

CARDIFF TIMES 33

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KEVIN FULTHORPE

Chief Inspector at Welsh Area British Boxing Board of Control

by Ralph Oates

Did you ever box be it amateur or professional?

Kevin Fulthorpe Yes! as mentioned boxed as an amateur not good enough to go professional.

Ralph Oates Which stance did you box, southpaw or orthodox?

Kevin Fulthorpe I had two different stances orthodox and horizontal.

Ralph Oates Have any members of your family ever boxed?

Centre Kevin left Lee Selby and right Andrew Selby In this month’s boxing column I have interviewed Kevin Fulthorpe who is the Chief Inspector at the Welsh Area British Boxing Board of Control. I am sure readers will find his views on the sport interesting.

Ralph Oates In which part of Wales were you born?

Kevin Fulthorpe Ely Cardiff.

Ralph Oates Where did you go to school?

Kevin Fulthorpe I Went to St Francis infant and junior school then Mostyn High School.

Ralph Oates What first drew you to boxing?

Kevin Fulthorpe Growing up in Ely my dad felt that both me and my brother Brian should look after ourselves and took us to Victoria Park ABC with Ernie Davies an amazing coach. It’s where I first met Pat Thomas and his brother Carl. Three times a week Dad would take us from Ely to the club in Canton.

A small attic above a garage next to the pub the Duke of Clar-ence, the shower which was a cold water tap over an old colander. Later my brother worked with Dennis Avoth who persuaded him to come along to the Highfields ABC. I used to train at the gym for fitness in Jackrow Square then later in Petherbridge Rd with my brother. Then Dennis asked if I wanted to box, I thought, why not! I Trained there for a few years, had a few contests with a not too impressive record. Had a break and went back and trained with Raymond (Rocky) Thorogood as my coach. A real character and a great coach really looked after his boxers and a lifelong friend.

Ralph Oates

36 CARDIFF TIMES

Kevin Fulthorpe My brother Brian boxed and was much better than me and represented Wales at light heavy. He boxed some great boxers of the time, Leroy Harriot and one of the Pearse brothers. His son Brian Jnr boxed as a lad and my nephew Joe won the Welsh Novice Championship.

Ralph Oates When did you become the Chief Inspector of the Welsh Area British Boxing Board of Control?

Kevin Fulthorpe I started as an Inspector late 80s then became Chief Inspector. Time has gone so quickly; I think about 2005.

Ralph Oates Which is your favourite weight division?

Kevin Fulthorpe Don’t have one, a boxer whatever weight will bring something to the game. A boxer which ever weight deserves the re-spect for getting in there.

Ralph Oates Who is your favourite old-time boxer?

Kevin Fulthorpe Gene Tunney who reigned as world heavyweight champion.

Ralph Oates Who is your favourite modern boxer?

Kevin Fulthorpe In my job as Chief Inspector, and the training courses I run, I have met so many and every time I meet them they are my favourite. Recently met Josh Warrington who is a very nice lad but overall, I think Lee Selby would be up there.

Old time boxers Jim Driscoll and Jack Petersen.

Ralph Oates Who do you feel is the best boxer to have emerged from Wales?

Kevin Fulthorpe

May 2014.

Ralph Oates When some fan’s talk about various boxing contest’s they often refer to them as fights. How do you feel about that description?

Chris Eubank and Ricky Hatton

We have so many, and all in their own right hold a place to be the best. Jim Driscoll, Jimmy Wilde, Freddie Welsh, How-ard Winstone, Joe Calzaghe, Enzo Maccarinelli, Lee Selby, Barry Jones, Joe Cordina. Steve Robinson, but going to have to go with Jim Driscoll.

Ralph Oates Who do you think has the potential to become the next world title holder from Wales?

Kevin Fulthorpe In the past championship fights were held over 15 rounds but reduced to 12. Do you feel there is any disadvantage in 12 rounds?

Ralph Oates In the past championship fights were held over 15 rounds but reduced to 12. Do you feel there is any disadvantage in 12 rounds?

Kevin Fulthorpe No most defiantly not it’s an extra three round where a boxer has the potential to get hurt. As the contest goes on the further, they dehydrate, increasing the potential for harm.

Ralph Oates Do you feel that boxing would be better if it had just one world boxing authority rather than four-WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO. Kevin Fulthorpe Well! Probably better if we had one body but with four authorities’ people have the potential to become a champion in each and then unify. Unification creates more excitement. Can’t see it ever changing they all have a vested interest in their own authorities.

Ralph Oates Do you feel that the rounds in women’s boxing should be increased to three minutes or is it prudent to keep it at two-minute rounds.

Kevin Fulthorpe When I started as an inspector in the late 80s Dia Corp was the Area secretary. I remember being told off by Dia when I called it a fight. He said a fight happens in a pub car park when two drunks have an argument. Two highly fit boxers come together it’s a contest not a fight.

Ralph Oates Can you name three of your favourite boxing films?

Kevin Fulthorpe Cinderella man starring Russell Crowe who played the part of world heavyweight champion James J. Braddock and Rocky with Sylvester Stallone, also Raging Bull which had Robert De Niro play the part of Jake LaMotta the world middleweight champion, that is up there with them.

Ralph Oates When away from boxing what hobby do you participate in?

Kevin Fulthorpe I enjoy keeping fit and getting people fit, been doing it now for forty years and still getting a buzz. Military and Civvies.

Currently Working part time at David Lloyd and Sport Wales.

Ralph Oates Are you involved in any other sports?

Kevin Fulthorpe When I stopped boxing, I took up running then eventually Triathlon. I was a much better triathlete than a boxer. Did manage to get into the Welsh squad and picked once for Wales but whilst out training got hit by a lorry and had multi-ple fractures. Tough fight but I got back. Recently Strength and Conditioning Coach at St Peter’s RFC, a great Cardiff club and one of the lead First Aid Trainers with the Football Association of Wales. Ran for Cardiff AAC, Cardiff Triathletes, British Army Sports Honours - cross country.

Ralph Oates Do you hold any other roles in boxing?

Ralph Oates Which is the most exciting contest that you have witnessed to date?

Kevin Fulthorpe Yes, part of the training team running courses for BBB of C Licensed Trainers and Seconds. Running a specialist First Aid Sports Injuries Course, Principles of Fitness and Diet and Nutrition Rules and Regulation. We have been running these courses since 2009 and had some very reputable boxers on them. Recently Josh Warrington, Lee Selby.

Enzo Maccarinelli and in the past Ricky Hatton, Chris Eubank, Ricky Burns, Frank Bruno to name but a few.

Kevin Fulthorpe Gary Buckland v Gavin Rees which took place on the 17

Cardiff Times, thanks Kevin for taking the time to take part in the interview.

Kevin Fulthorpe Keep it at two-minute rounds.

CARDIFF TIMES 37

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Celebrate life and remember those we cherish

Drwy ganiatâd caredig Banbury Photography Image by kind permission of Banbury Photography

Pobl gyffredin yn byw mewn cyfnod rhyfeddol!

Ordinary people living in extraordinary times!

www.llancaiachfawr.co.uk Ymgollwch ym mywydau gweision y Cyrnol Pritchard.

Immerse yourself in the lives of the servants of Colonel Pritchard.

40 CARDIFF TIMES

City Hospice Forever Flowers 2023

by Natalie McCulloch

Flowers this year and will Louisa said: “Phil had a great attitude after his brain tumour diagnosis. He took the news on the chin, was never frightened and was determined to give everything his Many of you may recall the spectacular display of sunflowers which transformed Cardiff Castle grounds in August 2022 as part of City Hospice’s Forever Flowers campaign. Well, this year City Hospice are delighted to invite you to ‘Dedicate a Daisy’ in memory of someone you love.

This year’s flower is a daisy which for many symbolises love, hope and new dawns. City Hospice is Cardiff’s local hospice, providing care to patients with terminal or life limiting illnesses, as well as counselling and support services for the families. This means each person in their care can live their lives to the fullest for as long as possible.

City Hospice deliver support and care to people in their own homes and Ty Hosbis. Unlike traditional depictions of a hospice, they aim to be a bright, welcoming and vibrant where the community connects to commence action, they take the energies of volunteers and the funds raised by their supporters and use these collective efforts to provide essential support to families through the city of Cardiff.

The Forever Flowers campaign ‘Dedicate a Daisy’ embodies that bright, welcoming and vibrant spirit as it brings Cardiff Castle to life in a celebration of the precious lives and precious memories of those who are no longer with us.

Each metal daisy, expertly crafted by British Ironworks, will form part of a striking display in the castle grounds, each symbolising someone you love. This display will be open to the public from Saturday 05th to Sunday 13th August. During the final two days of the display, you will be welcome to take away your flower and place it in a space special to you. Supporters will also have the opportunity to dedicate their daisy to a loved one with an engraving at participating Timpson stores after the display at a significantly reduced cost.

During the display the charity will be hosting a ‘Celebration of Life’ on the evening of Thursday 10th August. This free event is a special opportunity for not only those who have purchased a flower but for the community to unite in remembrance.

Forever Flowers is for everyone, not just those who were cared for by City Hospice. It provides the opportunity for people to talk about their grief, reflect and remember a loved on and celebrate life with a last tribute.

Louisa Devonish and her family will be among those supporting Forever ‘Dedicate a Daisy’ in memory of Louisa’s husband Phil.

Louisa said: “Phil had a great attitude after his brain tumour diagnosis. He took the news on the chin, was never frightened and was determined to give everything his best shot. As his condition progressed, he was transferred into the care of City Hospice.

They worked incredibly quickly to organise a hospital bed and medication so that Phil would be comfortable at home, which was where he wanted to be. I also received counselling prior to and following Phil’s death. Everyone was so kind and caring and we benefitted massively from their care. I can’t thank City Hospice enough for all they have done.

Forever Flowers provides our family with a lasting tribute to a wonderful, much-loved husband and dad and we look forward to seeing our daisy in the display”.

The flowers are available to purchase for £25 each.

Purchasing a flower will support the work of City Hospice, the only provider of home-based specialist palliative care in Cardiff.

Liz Booyse, Chief Executive of City Hospice, said: “Forever Flowers provides an opportunity for people to talk about their grief, reflect, remember a loved one and celebrate life with a lasting tribute. We are delighted to be bringing Forever Flowers back for a third consecutive year to allow people to unite in remembrance and dedicate a daisy in memory of loved ones”.

To contact City Hospice or to be a part of Forever Flowers and ‘Dedicate a Daisy’ please: Call on 02920 524150 or email info@cityhospice. org.uk or visit www.cityhospice.org.uk/foreverflowers-2023/

CARDIFF TIMES 41

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Ruperra Castle – Scheduled Monument at risk

by Charlotte Rogers

Just outside Cardiff, where it borders Newport and Caerphilly, in beautiful countryside, is the only pageant castle in Wales – Ruperra Castle, a ruin at risk of collapse.

Built in 1626 by Sir Thomas Morgan of Machen, Ruperra Castle is significant in Welsh history, one of only a handful of pageant castles (built for show, not defence) left in the UK. It is a Grade 2* Listed Building and Scheduled Monument and has statutorily protected gardens. The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of post-medieval social, domestic and political life and architectural design. Notably, the sophistication of Jacobean design at Ruperra was unprecedented at the time in Wales making it very rare.

The Castle has a colourful history; it has played host to Charles 1, and the military in WWII, been a family home and hunting lodge, and provided employment for local families. It became part of the Tredegar House estate in 1715 and served as a home for its future heirs.

the building is at risk and it is only a matter of time…

Sign our petition to the Welsh Government to make conservation management plans compulsory for scheduled monuments at risk such as Ruperra Castle: https://petitions.senedd.wales/petitions/245345 We want to help the local community enjoy its beauty, history, and importance and so run free events with the public. Visit our website to find out more or follow us on social media: www.ruperracastle.wales www.facebook.com/ruperracastle www.twitter.com/ruperra_castle www.instagram.com/ruperracastle

Ruperra Castle was gutted by fire in 1941 and now stands as a romantic ruin and it is a building at risk of collapse. The unique surrounding listed buildings include Stables, Bothy and Generator House, which is home to a rare Greater Horseshoe bat maternity colony and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The derelict gardens still retain echoes of the past including the remains of a magnificent MacKenzie and Moncur glass house, one of the largest and finest in Wales.

Visit the area There are some beautiful walks that take in the view of the Castle from Coed Craig Ruperra, including from the Motte which was built on the site of an Iron Age hill fort, part of the historic landscape that frames Ruperra Castle. NB You can’t visit the Castle as it is privately owned - the Castle and its outbuildings are dangerous ruins. There are a number of view points from public footpaths - view walking maps of the area: https:// www.ruperracastle.wales/visit-the-area.html

Sign a petition The Ruperra Castle Preservation Trust is working to save this beautiful and nationally important place. It would be a tragedy if, without necessary repair work, it deteriorates further and is lost forever. One of the towers has fallen and there are cracks in the others –

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