Cardiff Times - May 2022

May 2022

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CARDIFF TIMES

PUBLISHER Cardiff Times

EDITOR Louise Denning FEATURES EDITOR Mark Denning SALES & MARKETING Beth beth@cardiff-times.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS Wyn Evans, Vince Nolan, Sara John, Carl Marsh, Ralph Oates, Natalie McCulloch, Ryland Harding

EDITORS LETTER

Welcome Hi All, and welcome to our May edition.

This month is always a special one as we celebrate our son’s birthday. Luckily for us he is quite straightforward to buy presents for, unlike his sister who changes her mind like the weather!

Talking of the weather, last month was unusually dry with very little rain, which means May will inevitably be very wet, although I hope I am wrong! Luckily we recently managed to get away for a week’s holiday in the UK which was great, just being able to do something normal like this again is something we were really thankful for.

The situation in Ukraine is still extremely perilous, with no end in sight to the war yet. We do have an uplifting and inspiring article this month on the work ‘Project Apollo’ is doing in Ukraine, which is a must read. Founded by a British Army veteran from Bridgend, the project aims to extract vulnerable refugees from the war torn country, reunite families, and provide logistical support to relief efforts.

Finally, with the onset of hopefully warmer weather, both our children have a full summer of cricket matches to look forward to, while Mark and I perform taxi duties for the pair of them. At least when it is dry and sunny we get to sit outside for a couple of hours which is a definite bonus!

Until next month, happy reading!

Louise & Mark

EDITORIAL 029 2046 3028 ADVERTISING 07903 947594 EMAIL info@cardiff-times.co.uk WEB www.cardiff-times.co.uk Follow us on Twitter @CardiffTimes www.facebook.com/Cardifftimes Instagram

4 44 CARDIFF TIMES

cardifftimes

May CONTENTS 6 When muscles go AWOL!

by Wyn Evans 8 May at St David’s Hall 12 Scaffolding not Scaffold

by Vince Nolan 16 In The Words Of

by Carl Marsh 21 UK’s Strongest Man in Cardiff 22 SUPERSTITIONS: Some strange, some sinister, some simply silly

by Sara John 31 Project Apollo 32 Tonight Josephine Cardiff Reveals Entertainment LineUp 34 A Bridge too far for Tommy Farr

by Ralph Oates 37 A Hero of the People at the Sherman Theatre 40 Raising Awareness for Sepsis

by Natalie McCulloch

Ar eyouover21 andhaveaspar e bedr oom?

Ear nagener ous t axf r eeal l owance Rewar di ngcar eer Wor kf r om home Respi t eandLongTer ms Fost erCar er sUr gent l y NeededAcr oss Sout hWal es

When muscles go AWOL! byWyn Evans Regular readers will know that this column centres its attention upon my daughter, The Girl, who is sixteen and has Down Syndrome.

Hers is a rollicking good story and we have followed her tale through primary school to Cardiff High school. She is currently in Year 11 and, if everything else goes to plan will enter Whitchurch High this coming autumn for two years in sixth form. Among other things these musings have considered issues surrounding her ‘special needs’, looked at her wide range of activities and achievements and, all in all, concluded that a life with Down Syndrome is very much a life worth living. But it’s been a while since I’ve had something to report to readers about my developing Parkinson’s Disease.

Back in 2016, after about a year of watching my left hand develop a life of its own – shaking and dropping things at random, challenging me to get food and wine successfully into my mouth before it tumbled from my fork – I decided to visit my GP. The Boss and I spent a lot of time online first, analysing what might be my affliction. We decided that it sounded either like an intention tremor, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease (PD). We learned that it can be tricky to diagnose PD. The NHS website puts it thus: “No tests can conclusively show that you have Parkinson’s disease. Your doctor will base a diagnosis on your symptoms, medical history and a detailed physical examination. Your GP will talk to you about the problems you’re experiencing and may ask you to perform some simple mental or physical tasks, such as moving or walking around, to help with the diagnosis. In the early stages, your GP may find it difficult to say whether you definitely have the condition because symptoms are usually mild. If your GP suspects Parkinson’s disease, you’ll be referred to a specialist” (usually a neurologist or a geriatrician).

The specialist undertook a range of tests, telling 6 CARDIFF TIMES

me that a diagnosis of PD would be likely if I had two of the following three symptoms: • shaking or tremor in a part of your body that usually only occurs at rest • slowness of movement (bradykinesia) • muscle stiffness (rigidity).

And, If the symptoms improve after taking a medication called levodopa, it’s more likely that one has PD. Long story short. I was diagnosed with PD. I had to inform the DVLA and be given the green light to drive by my GP. But for the first couple of years post-diagnosis, to tell the truth, I did not worsen much at all. I didn’t think that I was poorly enough to apply for PIP or its then equivalent. I twice fell into the river by the bowls club (don’t ask) and had a nasty fall running up the granite steps to our then home. Yes, I could still run! But gradually my stamina went and nearly all my trips were by car rather than foot. Things became tricky when I developed hyperthyroidism too.

The doctor had to work jolly hard to differentiate between the symptoms of PD versus those of the thyroid condition. Walking on any than flat surfaces proved treacherous; my brain telling me to go left but my body insistent on going forward, with falls ensuing. Following a close call on the cliff path near Caerfai in St David’s I decided to

rule out footpaths from my itinerary. A further couple of years passed. On the plus side, I could still manage the big weekly shop at Sainsbury’s but I proved unable to get off the beaten track with my cameras any longer.

I worried that The Girl would lose opportunities for holidays because of my condition. However, this was one area that the Covid lockdown did us a favour; no one could get abroad to their dream holidays. This meant The Girl was in the same position as everyone else. But with the end of lockdown came a downturn in my PD. It was probably a coincidence that these happened in tandem but between March and April this year I went from moderately unwell to prodigiously unwell, as follows: unable to get out of the armchair; unable to walk upstairs – having to crawl up; sleeping 20 hours a day; light-headed; tumbling and falling to the floor, breaking no bones but hurting myself. And if one thing differentiates the Pre-PD from the Post-PD me it is my musculature. The Boss says my legs have disappeared. Whilst that is a stark assessment it is given the lie by virtue of the fact that they are here now, bearing my weight! But my biceps (which in College won me arm-wrestling competitions!) have, over the last three months,

disappeared. That’s right, my biceps have left the building. Alongside that there is the inconvenient (pun intended) necessity to plan any journey or route around the proximity of public toilets, and the annoying requirement always to be no further than a yard away from a box of Kleenex.

More positively, the GP and Specialist are working in tandem, reviewing everything about my condition and trying different assimilations of drugs. I think that they are on the right track as I am regaining energy and activity daily. I lost three stone between February and April and I am now looking forward to getting it back.

My diagnosis of PD has not proven to be a death sentence (something I feared) and I am doing all I can to live a long and happy life.

Good luck and respect to any of you who are, or whose family are battling Parkinson’s. As Billy Connolly wrote(1): “I’ve got Parkinson’s Disease, and I wish he’d ******* kept it to himself... The Parkinson’s just rumbles along, doing its thing.

It bothered me for a while but when I think about it, I suppose I’m lucky I didn’t get something worse”.

Next month, more from The Girl.

CARDIFF TIMES 7

Cardiff Times May - Page 1 Editorial_Layout 1 28/04/2022 17:12 Page 1

MAY AT ST DAVID’S HALL THIS year is flying by, and incredibly it’s May already! We would like to extend a huge thank you to our wonderful patrons for the continued fantastic support, and we’ve got another exciting and diverse programme lined up at St David’s Hall.

The month starts in style with stand-up legend, Dylan Moran (Tues 3 May) and his hilarious new show We Got This. As ever, the National Concert Hall of Wales is the place to be for a laugh and we’ve got a healthy helping of comedy in store. Henning Wehn (Sat 7 May) wrings sense of out of the nonsensical in It’ll All Come Out in the Wash. There’s also quick-thinking quips in Paul Merton’s Impro Chums (Tues 24 May), while broadcasting icon Sandi Toksvig (Mon 16 May) presents fascinatingly funny facts in Next Slide Please... You’ll need to be quick though if you want to see Foil, Arms and Hog (Fri 6 May), Chris Ramsey (Sun 8 May) and Bianca Del Rio (Mon 9 May) as only very limited tickets are now remaining! Plus, former Welsh international Scott Quinnell won’t be short of a few stories as he shares anecdotes and analysis with James Haskell, Mike Tindall and Alex Payne in The Good, The Bad and The Rugby (Weds 4 May).

Meanwhile, our Cardiff Classical series resumes with magnificent movie music from Jaws to Jurassic Park as Peter Harrison conducts the 90th Birthday Celebration for John Williams (Thurs 5 May). The Hallé (Tues 10 May) are back with a powerful programme of Kaprálová, Mozart and Dvořák, and also returning are the Welsh National Opera Orchestra (Sun 22 May) featuring a stunning centre-piece of Shostakovich’s Piano Concerto No 2 performed by virtuoso soloist, Steven Osborne. Don’t miss our latest Classical Roadmap (Fri 6 May) talk too on Lefel 1 as Dr Jonathan James explores The History of Film Music.

There are huge names from the world of rock and pop as well. Neil Hannon reels off classics from across the entire career of The Divine Comedy (Thurs 12 May) to celebrate the release of their Best Of collection, Charmed Life. BRIT Award-winning spoken word solo artist Kae Tempest (Sat 14 May) delivers powerful songs from the critically acclaimed new album The Line is a Curve, while Grammy Award-winning singersongwriter, Robert Cray (Fri 20 May) showcases why he’s one of the greatest guitarists ever. Multi-talented rapper, Broadway actor and social media sensation, Todrick Hall (Mon 23 May) brings his eagerly awaited Femuline tour to the Hall, and soul superstars The Drifters (Sun 29 May) are back by popular demand.

Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, Jeff Beck (Fri 27 May) is now sold out, but please check with our Box Office nearer the show and keep a close eye on our website and social media for any late seat releases.

We’ve also got loads of lovely nostalgia on offer. That’ll Be The Day (Weds 18 May) combines music and laughter to revel in a golden era of entertainment; as does Owen Money’s Juke Box Heroes III (Fri 13 May), which includes top tributes to The Beach Boys, Tina Turner and Neil Diamond. Personally endorsed

by Mick Fleetwood, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac (Sat 28 May) celebrates one of the best bands ever, and Big Girls Don’t Cry (Weds 25 May) is a homage to the spectacular sounds of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Seven Drunken Nights (Thurs 19 May) tells the remarkable story of The Dubliners, and get ready to have the time of your life with Dirty Dancing in Concert (Thurs 26 May) as the 80s classic comes to the big screen accompanied by a sensational live band performing the soundtrack of a generation!

8 CARDIFF TIMES

Cardiff Times May - Page 2_Layout 1 18/04/2022 15:27 Page 1

THAT’LL BE THE DAY 35th Anniversary Tour 18.05.22

DIRTY DANCING IN CONCERT 26.05.22

BIG GIRLS DON’T CRY 25.05.22

KAE TEMPEST The Line is a Curve 14.05.22

THE ROBERT CRAY BAND That’s What I Heard 20.05.22

DYLAN MORAN We Got This 03.05.22

SANDI TOKSIG Next Slide Please...

16.05.22

TODRICK HALL Femuline 23.05.22

PAUL MERTON’S IMPRO CHUMS 24.05.22

SEVEN DRUNKEN NIGHTS The Story of The Dubliners 19.05.22

HENNING WEHN It’ll All Come Out in the Wash 07.05.22

THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE RUGBY 04.05.22 CARDIFF TIMES 9

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CARDIFF TIMES 11

‘And Another Thing...’

Scaffolding not Scaffold

byVince Nolan

“Send in the clowns.” Cabinet meeting.

“There’s a bright golden haze on the meadow.” Crop spraying.

“Somewhere over the rainbow weigh a pie.” The Little Pie Shop of Horrors.

“The hills are alive with the sound of music.” That’s a rave mate.

“Consider yourself at home, consider yourself one of the family.” We’ve had this conversation before Dad. “A spoon full of sugar helps the medicine go down.” Unless it’s a suppository.

“Bright eyes, burning like fire.” Conjunctivitis, probably.

I was ensconced in our local pub recently sheltering from the sun and noticed these disembodied feet swinging in the breeze. Slightly alarming at first sight. On closer inspection, they belonged to a painter who was sitting on scaffolding outside. Top tip: When given a choice between scaffolding and a ladder I always choose the latter.

I was at the last Olympics, and I saw a guy carrying what looked like fibreglass scaffolding. I said to him “Are you a Pole Vaulter?” He said, “Nein, I am German and how did you know my name?”

Many moons ago I trod the boards in school productions.

Ah, the smell of the crowd and the roar of the greasepaint.

Hard to believe now perhaps but I played the Judge in Toad of Toad Hall to one Michael Powell’s Toad. This particular Michael Powell (after an Equity Card name change to James

Powell) went on to be the go-to Director of Les Mis in both the West End and on Broadway. We bumped into him recently and he hasn’t changed a bit (still dressed as a toad).

This was quickly followed up by my role as The Kralahome (Prime Minister) in The King and I to my mate Clare’s Anna.

In hindsight, I was probably a more popular Prime Minister than the current incumbent but not so many illegal parties.

This got me thinking about some of the lyrics from musicals and what they might mean today:

12 CARDIFF TIMES

“Bewitched, bothered and bewildered am I.” Stop drinking.

I found myself in another local watering hole, The Tall Storey (see what I did there), whilst The Boss was at her Assassination for Beginners class. There were few people in the pub, so it made eavesdropping easy whether I wanted to or not. I have severely cleaned up what was said Dear Reader as the storyteller punctuated everything he said with the F word. If you insert this word into the following tale at random intervals, you will have the general idea. It went like this: “My mate from school got his pilot’s licence at 17 and crashed his plane into my Dad’s house. My Dad was running a pub at the time and banned him from coming in. Later my mate became an airline pilot and during a holiday flight to Spain stopped to chat with my Dad. Well, my Dad needed a change of underwear after that and wasn’t looking forward to the journey home neither.” Really!

I designed a crash-proof aeroplane made out of rubber. It’s called the Boing 747.

Pier Pressure at Clevedon, Weston-Super-Mare and Penarth.

My friend Matt has an aversion to piers. If ever he gets too close to one, we have to shout the following warning:

term heckler originated from the textile trade, where

stealing mail at gunpoint guessconvicted but it wouldofcertainly have caused a major him back into the wild. No harm something wrong is called a typo.

So hemp if smacking kids law introduced in Walestoforheckle was to tease oritcomb-out flax or and was sentenced to death by diplomaticI say incident. …..well, until next door’s cat got 2022.

Whilst being welcomed by most something wrong is it called a talko? nsure that we had properly warmed up sincefibres. we didn’t wantmodern to pull anymeaning drinking The was coined in Dundee realised that our celebration coincided with to So: “Any of you awould number of subatomic particles right-minded people it us will of course bea minimum nothing Furthermore, a typo on the a headstone be Just beten clear: Did hear about urologist hanging.

He refused a pardon in 1833 Unfortunately, only six of turned up and of were required or the priest). century.

Aa female chum of electric mine meand what autocorrect I thought the in in thedue earlya carrying 19th As theasked hecklers toiled the Stereophonics and Tom Jones being fractional charge, postulated but bad news for the Cardiff under 14’s grave error?

Between typos ff. I engaged four old-timers who were the sold bar have been chances were of her being accepted intometeorologist a convent if she lost who(could was eaten bythe aharder bear?

He was ting, if Ithe were illegally hunting for inhad as building blocks of the hadrons.

Quarks at Principality Stadium which from President Andrew Jackson and Lederhosen Formation Slap Dancing Ensemble it’s getting post stuffaread these days.

One the factory, one ofI said, the team would out the days’ weight. “slim toto nun.” tionedout ones from the Taff Vale) and asked them whether they fancied having a have not directly observed but theoretical City hotels.

The concerts were(meaty then urologist, ohbeen please yourselves). uld I have questionable morels? who will the no longer be slapping each other as and tiny mistake and your whole post is constant urined. news the others would butt in with was executed after the Supreme Court our and free beerand for the afternoon.

Fearing some trap,others, they took Like many I have have regular bowel cancer predictions based onto their existence have tests, cancelled weunless found athey City centre hotelkind of honey ofa their routines are given The Leaderto the Opposition I were sitting in upart callfor deer whowas has lost both (Iof hope you are not eating atand this point).

Nothing to worry vincing that myhurrah! offer genuine.

Cautiously, they agreed join us.

Picture the interruptions and a stream of “furious debate.” been confi rmed experimentally.”

Oh £80, However, the fi ckle fi nger The world has turn takenitthis a down strange twist –please! at leastWith ruled he could he wanted special dispensation by our First Minister. about.

To the uninitiated, is a DIY if exercise.

Anyway, the scene, 5pm on sunny ourinsocially The Funky Furlough, g accident?

No eye deer.

And asaarrived for mesons and baryons, we could be of fate (presumably the middle one),this then the parts I collated seem occupy.

Iquality have been test kit inlocal, theto post, suitably anonymised with “Bowel mind Idistanced have some put-downs to.

No pleasing some weekday evening atKit” thea side How long have you had arthritis?” don’t Cancer Test picked out infolk. capital letters on the“I bright here all night. intervened and cancelled the offi ce lunch Saw this in a local pub on their specials board: reading about proposal for the 2027 Rugby whencomics a ladypurple close byused to us asked the Barmodern Manager hat when Trump dies, I will give which have to deal packaging.

One has to takewith a sample of one’s pooday entrance to the Brewery onwill us toand wander lonely as some clouds “We leaving Love Local champion local farms World Cup which prevent any team in “but red I have arthritis, Father,” the drunk said, on a small plastic stick and put that into a sealed tube and iffacilities theCaroline toilets were still upstairs.

He ofother course say: “He it isthat today how he aswarmed hecklers: IStreet was at the hairdressers the day for my where four the time tried to around the Castle and itswas outdoor bar and fisheries.”

All very laudable but the first shirts and green shirts playing each other to ensure we had properly up since we didn’t want to pull any drinking bag to send off to some lucky laboratory person somewhere. just read inascalping the paper that the Pope does.”

Continuing January when the Jimmy It makes lateral flow test Ipeople seem enjoyable inNail comparison. pensioners who could barely until frostbite got the better offront us forced usand confiup rmed that they were but thought this to song be ato make-up and lying item on their menu was Mediterranean Olives. because colour blind often struggle les. only sixinof us and turned a minimum of ten were required or the k.wearing theUnfortunately, other three According to the instructions, the best way to achieve this is “Ain’t Nohanging Doubt - She’s Lying” came on the “What size ofseen shoe does your mouth take?” stand were onto back toina the hotelsame we did not need.

Much fun, but Overheard pub: “Every time we distinguish between the two.

Not criticising Staying with the drink, there has always the rope to put a Tupperware container down the bog, aim for it and very stupid question.

I would have said something Tomlinson was off.

I engaged four old-timers who were in the bar (could have been the wireless.

Totally unscripted, the Wales, masked lamppost, for support, rather quickly found here.” out thatYou there is asay. limit to ahow comewehere we come don’t them of course but thisattached would affect then take your sample from the plasticwe, receptacle.

Mission been much snobbery toknow wine. like: “I ked by themulled son ofwine a good friend singers in thebutfrom chairs and our masked stylists accomplished, I did feel sorry for don’t the plastic recyclers theme: “This is what comes drinking on an empty mentioned ones from the Taff Vale) and asked them whether they fancied having a much one can drink before falling than illumination.

An Canada, Ireland, Tonga, Russia, South Africa when they come to openand theasealed Tupperware. sell-buy dates before Indeed, people make living from it, all started to sway sing to the music in a over. afternoon they would and Japan.

This had me in mind of that quote when madam was dout write a urology for his Dad’s ery tour and free beer forSoap the afternoon. some kind of honey trap, they took onhead.”Fearing scene reminiscent from The Full Monty when butfrom I am making a stand because the al on offer aeulogy Friday yconvincing 3supermarket shops I that really In an effort to improve its reputation for dining, local pub, BBC snooker commentator Tedourof Lowe who never…… remember. last with us but we the heart to say ehave my was genuine. Cautiously, they agreed join Picture the The Vomiting Vixen, has to just hired aus. husband and chef they all started dancing inof the queue atwife the a rope famously said during one his commentaries: lockdowns.

I’m giving up wine, every day, all “I know where you were when they were handing hables would the all withthat Mark Daceymake (on the dynamic CEO of team.

We really hope that Sam and doimplements well.

Boots and job centre.

Fortunately all sharp scene, 5pm on aElla sunny moved them out to he meant.

Anyway, here is leS) who is the “And for those of you who are watching in black A drunk who smelled like a onthe a brains month.

No wait, that’s not it.minutes I’m giving out………getting an extra helping ofup.

Iolleges. hadand some doubt were downed forthe asame few short and then Itsausage does not whether need Pope me to suggest the uncanny Are you with old food and know what to and white, the pink is next to the green.” ugs weekday evening atdon’t the side brewery got on abored bus and sat the car park many make for tea?

Look no further, two fresh ideas here.

Wine every day all month! without further comment, just like in a musical, mouth.” car for the journey home. rope down next to a priest.

The Ricky Tomlinson or of vice versa. to Brewery ave had months ago aslike aonthe e tale, (heenough was affectionately everybodyentrance wentwe back to the their day job Interesting lyric heard on the wireless e it’s nothing to do with EU drunk's shirt was stained, his Two people out on a first date.

“Do you Caroline Street where four nothing had happened.

Lockdown has a lot to no other day: “Sports bra and aconsequence Maserati car.” you know, ifbright you wore soundproof trousers direct afi because his likeness ave to home school face was full of red ell-buy dates before but a recent trip“Do to my local supermarket pection of of the packaging answer for but that was very funny. like Merlot Tammy?”

“Yes, but you don’t Who would have thought of that combination? pensioners could Perhaps barely once owned one of the chewed pencils which one would hear word saying.” lipstick and he a had a half-you’re of who Covid19.” yan leader), involved a tripImake ghlight of the no perishables that the following Monday.

Instand fact Ihave in for fruit and vegwould like Apparently many including a poet onto called pronounce the “t.”

“Oh, Ok.” Looks at were seen hanging empty bottle of wine sticking Shakespeare used to his works. used Thewrite Leader of famous The Opposition andI He I were this is why do not run Wales play France.

We Dave Cox whom I have just “discovered”.

Sothen these comestibles ey would it to the car for the home.

What is going one journey day“Is leSthat on the sell-buy date.

It takes an inordinate amount of skill to supply T it’smake serious, your real face or are you still celebrating out of his pocket.

He opened waiter: “Twotoaproperty Merlots for on me and Ammy.” listening Michael Ball the wireless. lamppost, for support, rather Intellectual rules prevent me quoting to chew on it so much that I couldn’t tell whether it was a pub.

20 year relationship with “Onomatopoeia”.

(I bet you looked it in-@me” up). withhis 24 hours towas spare.

Waste levels mustOsmond be astronomical. and started mes, picked, He interviewing Donny who with supply issues?

Closer inspec@on ofnewspaper the packaging or theEU excitement. minimum of tenpackaged, were required or Halloween?” than illumination.

Andog any of hisDr work here but I encourage you to Our friend H has trained her Daisy couple of minutes later, he asked the priest, "Father, what causes arthritis?"

A wife sent her dAdistributed played them home and had been appearing in panto at the London 2B or not 2B. Staying with the Bard, in days gone by, t, around UK The handful of you who read my monthly witterings will recent WalesOnline article bizarrely claimed look him up.

A real comedy genius and hugely or fruit and veg like Tanzania and Argen@na.

So these Staying with food, I have been doing some research into what is no longer manu was off.

I engaged four old-timers afternoon they would that I living, try to avoid confrontational subjects, like women, politics. 's caused know by loose being with cheap, wicked too much and to bring her alcohol, a bottle ofhusband red wine.

No asurprise Palladium. was speaking about “Your bus leaves inDonny 10 minutes...

Be under it.” aquote romantic international weekends.

On that GPs were working 40drawn months anUK. hour refreshing. d to the shops and put on in order to attract women, I used to use this from the The list is endless but here is a small sample: Pringles (Belgium), Smar@ However, I was recently to a newspaper article which re in the bar (could have beentaken the tothat," exo@c climes, picked, packaged, the port or airport, for your fellow man," the priest replied.

"Imagine theformer drunk muttered.

He remember. never…… acting mentor of his who told him the A phrase overtime.

I we have doubt they are ridiculously quoted Home no Secretary, Priti Patel’s response to some really, she’s a Bordeaux collie. I was sat text message.

She wrote: “If you are sleeping, send p (Mike’s fi rst), we did it in the left on the sell-buy date.

It Colman’s English Mustard ( Germany), Terrys Chocolate Orange (France) and ostretched reading his Thebut priest, thinking about what had said, turned tofor the following: “Theatre is theIV, only place where entioned ones from the Taff Vale) inane and inaccurate comments made about the UK “Well, it’s night out him.. and a 82: night offyou for hisHP Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Act III, Scene line Ia have also been reading Bob Mortimer’s Recent crossword clue: “Brush under the ouses then delivered to40 the shops and putbyhe on the shelves with atpaper. present, months an hour? with She Who Must Be Obeyed the other m the 18th Century French President, Macron (correctto atParliament) time of on going tostrong. press).dreams.

Sauce (The Netherlands).

Staggering. apologised: "I'm sorry, Iferry didn't mean come so How long you had can dream public. job as an actor is ntThat’s of skill to supply goods me your Ifhave you are laughing, send meayour ay, athem bus to crossing autobiography which IYour alsosmelled strongly carpet 5Dover, and 4.”

The answer was “gloss over.” ked whether they fancied over three years an hour. only way family.”

Aindrunk who like Frankly, a six-year-old could have putThe together a better day whilst she sipped a glass of very wine to deliver that dream” which we thought was "I don't have arthritis, Father," the drunk said, "but I just read in the paper that recommend.

Funny, poignant and clever, Picture the poor student trying to learn English. todo spare.

Waste riposte. ot straight was tobrewery would be to levels time travel smile.

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14 CARDIFF TIMES

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In The Words Of

by Carl Marsh

it if you have not seen it or have always put it on the to-do list of viewings.

MUSIC

… and just like that, I’ve been to a few events in April, but I will mention only the one due to the limited space I have.

Normality is back with a vengeance. So, the only thing necessary to mention in the week ahead is the Local Government Elections:

Bastille played the Cardiff Motorpoint in April, and attending it, I did! I’ve been a fan of this band since they appeared on the music scene many moons ago, and watching them live rewound the clock for me. The stage show was an impressive feat to witness, with a vast erected video screen adding to the spectacle that the light show also did. With a few albums of material to choose from, it was the ones that the crowd - if asked in advance - would have put on their wish lists. And to see lead singer Dan climb into the crowd to continue singing, walk the length of the venue (and back) to just below where I was seated, was a highlight for me. And proof that normality in concerts is back!

INTERVIEWS PLEASE DON’T VOTE for LABOUR or the CONSERVATIVES! Go out and vote for something entirely different from those two, as both have made a mockery of running the country and seem to be the same old story, no matter who you voted in to run Parliament. If we all decide to vote for anything but one of those two, then surely things can/could change for the people of Wales.

TV/FILM The final and fifth season of Gomorrah aired on Sky Atlantic, and it was worth the wait. I rate this as my favourite drama series that I have enjoyed watching. It might be in Italian and Neapolitan, but don’t let that put you off. It’s better than Breaking Bad and The Wire. And, I would put those two shows as numbers two and three of my favourite drama shows, in that order. Gomorrah is brutal yet doesn’t make it all about glorifying it. The plot keeps you guessing, often taking you by surprise as to who dies next or where the story is heading. I feel privileged to have watched it all. You will not regret

16 CARDIFF TIMES

James Haskell may have played rugby for England, but I got to find out that he actually started off playing for Wales at some point whilst he was still a junior. I chatted to him ahead of his event with Mike Tindall and Alex Payne [The Good, The Bad And The Rugby] at St David’s Hall on Wednesday 4th May. Also at the same venue, but obviously on a different night, is The Divine Comedy [St David’s Hall Thursday 12th May]. The leading man, Neil Hannan, took a bit of time out of his touring schedule, albeit whilst also having a bad hangover, to chat with me today, the same day I am writing this up for you all to read.

Have a great May; see you all next month, Carl Marsh Twitter - @InTheWordsOf_CM Facebook - @InTheWordsOf YouTube - InTheWordsOf

Carl Marsh

James Haskell

You’re coming to Cardiff to do The Good, The Bad & The Rugby Live at St David’s Hall on May 4th. This is all off the success of one of the podcasts you do with Mike Tindall and Alex Payne: how did this all get to come about in the first place?

I think (it’s) the simplicity of life and knowing exactly what you’re going to do and playing on the big stage, but otherwise, not a lot. I quite enjoy what I’m doing…

I mean, I don’t miss getting beaten up. I’m still paying for… you know, 18 or 19 and a half seasons of rugby.

James Haskell

Carl Marsh

So, we all used to work for a company with a podcast, and we all decided to leave and set up on our own… well, actually, the company went into administration, and, it’s a long story, but we liked the job and thought that it’s a perfect opportunity to do something ourselves. And we decided that we were going to go out and create The Good, The Bad & The Rugby.

We knew that we had good chemistry; we enjoyed what we’d done, and even the trailer for the very first episode went to number one in all of the podcasts across the world. And so we were pretty excited that we were going to be on to a good thing. So, we basically built that from there, where it’s a sort of show that doesn’t really talk about rugby, but it focuses on the personalities, the stories, you know, it’s quite forthright, and some of the stuff it talks about, it’s not frightened to come forward and have an opinion. You see, we’re not here to talk about the minutiae of the game. We’re here to entertain and be honest, you know.

Many people won’t know that you played for Wales as a teenager but then went to play for England as an adult.

So, why did you switch allegiances?

Carl Marsh So, what do you miss most about playing rugby? What is the biggest thing you miss the most?

James Haskell I’d missed out on England Under-16s, and as I was committed to playing… obviously, my mum is Welsh, and I’m also Irish and Scottish qualified, but I really enjoyed going down the Welsh route. But in the end, I just had to decide. And actually, it turned out there were two opportunities at England Under-18s than at Wales, and I felt that I was more strongly English than I was Welsh, and I made a tough decision, but it would have been an amazing honour. And I certainly would have won some more Grand Slams if I’d made it through. And, you know, with Sean Edwards and Warren Gatland as the coaches, it would have been an amazing adventure, but as all the Welsh fans remind me, I probably wouldn’t have got into the team.

[Laughter] A minimal number of tickets remain at the box office for this event. So, St David’s Hall is your port of call(ing)!

CARDIFF TIMES 17

Carl Marsh I can only assume it’s good to be back on the road again [St David’s Hall - Wednesday 12th May], especially after the last few years of not knowing ‘what’s what”, if you know what I mean?

Neil Hannon - Divine Comedy Yeah, totally. It was just a lack of knowing when we’d ever get out again, which was the annoying bit. In the end, we’ve had layoffs probably of a similar length over the years, but you know, it was the not knowing when it would happen again. That was the tricky bit. And also, the guys not getting any money from anywhere that are in the band, or the crew.

Carl Marsh This new tour is all about your greatest hits album, which came out in February; can you believe it’s been 30 years?

Neil Hannon - Divine Comedy No, I am long in the tooth, which is ironic because I have legendarily small teeth. I don’t know if anybody’s ever noticed… maybe I don’t open my mouth very much in photographs?

[Laughter] But I remember going to the dentist once, and he said, “Oh, what small teeth you have”. And I thought, “Do you say that to everybody? And to rate the size of their teeth!” I feel like I’ve gone somewhat off-topic?

[Laughter] Carl Marsh No, it’s okay. I’m looking at pictures of you now, and I can’t see your teeth! [Laughs] Neil Hannon - Divine Comedy … and right, yeah, so, 30 years… that’s sort of being kind, actually. I suppose I started more like in 1989 or 1990. We’ve just been nostalgic for the last two or three years with the box sets, reissues, and the ‘Best of…’.

Carl Marsh So, over those 30-odd years, there have been 18 CARDIFF TIMES

some tracks The Divine Comedy has released that have been large scale productions. And what I mean by that are the ones with an orchestra involved. So, at what stage, when it came to the songwriting process, did you choose which songs warranted larger scale versus those songs that had “just” the band performing them?

Neil Hannon - Divine Comedy It’s funny because, you know, the orchestration has always just been another bunch of colours on the palette, or, whatever you call that thing that painters hold up. Yeah, probably, yeah.

Yeah. And, you know, sometimes… well, I use it a lot, let’s face it! [Laughter] The size of the orchestration is and can be so huge and vast. It can be 40 or 50 people, or it can just be like a little string quartet. And then, you know, I’ve done an awful lot of songs that have had nothing on it, except the band or a bunch of synthesisers. I think it all depends on the music, what the song decides and what it sort of asks for. And you try not to bring economic thoughts into it too much, because obviously, it’s always cheaper not to use an orchestra! [Laughs] The Divine Comedy are performing at St David’s Hall on Thursday 12th May. A few tickets are remaining at the time of going to press.

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ACTIVE LEISURE SCHEME

ALL SESSIONS £3 PER PERSON*

The Active Leisure Scheme fitness classes and sports activities aim to get you active have fun and meet like minded people at the same time.

Sessions take place at Eastern Leisure Centre, Fairwater Leisure Centre, Llanishen Leisure Centre, Star Hub and Western Leisure Centre.

Discover a session near you via the Better UK App or via the website, better.org.uk/cardiff

*Some sessions are included on a Better Health Membership, speak to a member of the team at your preferred centre for more information. Better is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 registration no. 27793R. Registered office: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SX. Inland Revenue Charity no. XR43398.

UK’s Strongest Man in Cardiff Strongman is one of the nation’s best loved TV shows, and it’s a sure sign Christmas is here when the big friendly giants appear on telly pulling trucks and lifting cars. On July 17th, fans will get a chance to see some of the world’s best strongmen in action as Wales’s Strongest Man comes to Cardiff International Campus.

It’s a thrilling show, suitable for people of all ages, with kids getting a chance to catch free t-shirts from the ‘Daddy Cannon’ in between watching the strongmen taking on 5 crazy feats of strength during the afternoon.

out, and all the strongmen are very sportsmanlike, encouraging each other to do well. We try to be role models to the younger generation, and will never say no to a photograph with a young fan’.

So what can you expect at this year’s Wales’s Strongest Man? The show starts at 1pm, and as all the strongmen are introduced to the crowd the fans excitement is built up by great music and lots of pyrotechnics. The strongmen will then take on the first of 5 events, and whilst the events are still secret, fans can expect a dramatic race to kick things off, typically a Giant Tyre Flip, or carrying huge anvils in their hands.

And no strongman event would be complete without the famous Atlas Stones – those big concrete balls strongmen have to pick up and lift onto platforms. It’s a fan favourite, and with the stones weighing as much as 165Kg, it’s a brutal event for the strongmen to take on.

As at all Ultimate Strongman events, children’s tickets are available from just £12 plus booking fee, with adults prices starting from £20 – a family of four can have a great day out for around £70

One of the country’s favourite strongmen, and 2 Time UK’s Strongest Man, is Gavin Bilton, a big friendly giant who was a former Welsh Guardsman and is now a full-time strongman.

The Welsh Bull, as Gavin is known, is excited to be competing in front of home fans, ‘Wales has some of the best strongmen around right now, and there’s nothing better than showing the home fans a great time. Just a few years ago we were competing in gyms in front of our friends, and now the shows have got so good we are expecting over 2,000 fans in Cardiff, and there will be around 12,000 fans when I defend my UK title in Milton Keynes in June’ an excited Gavin said. ‘People are also surprised when I tell them it’s a family show. Kids absolutely love the day

Tickets are available at: www.wales_strongman. eventbrite.co.uk

CARDIFF TIMES 21

SUPERSTITIONS: Some strange, some sinister, some simply silly Part Two

by Sara John

Some further definitions of Superstition, even underground, have come to light since I wrote last month’s article on this subject. This quote from ‘Highland Superstitions’ by the Rev. Alexander Macgregor (writing in1922) explains that: “It is a Latin word, whose secret has been lost, so that, except for a guess, the meaning can never be recovered. However, the mere fact that it was once a living force commends it to our interest, for even when we laugh at old beliefs, and try to explain them away, they still intrigue us and win our interest.”

The topics under this heading are rich and various.

By far the most widely based, interesting and plentiful are reports of the activities of the ‘Little people’, Y Tylwyth Teg. Possibly, it has been suggested, they were the original residents of Wales, and of the north of Scotland, and as the Celts, then the Romans arrived, they were forced to move to higher, wilder parts of the countryside, or even underground. Keeping themselves well apart from the newcomers.

It was said that they were small of stature and unintelligible in their ways.

most wonderful shade of green. They come from time to time to local markets with many herbs and remedies for the ills of animals. They never speak, it is all done by signs, and all payments are in silver.

There were reported countless tales of people, frequently young men, out at dusk going on an errand to collect salt or flour or suchlike for the family from a nearby farmstead. In each quite similar report the young man on his own, would meet with a group of beautiful young people playing musical instruments, singing and dancing. He is invited and encouraged to join in.

The family await his return. They have a long wait. It will be a year and a day before the Tylwyth Teg permit their captive guest to complete his errand and return home. He will never accept he was away for a year and a day.

Mother’s confinements and babies’ births were subject to superstition, and fear. The expectant woman would be well warned not to make any preparations or purchases prior to the safe arrival of the new infant!

Sir John Rees and Professor Gwynn Jones produced considerable bodies of work on these “Fairy Tales”, albeit long ago at the end of the 18th century. Eiluned and Peter Lewis also added considerably to reports of their interchange with other later incomers in ‘The Land of Wales’ (published Batsford in 1937).

Another, possibly the greatest fear in all the Celtic countries, was that of a visit from one of the mischievous Little People determined to exchange the beautiful newborn with what was referred to as a changeling. The newborn baby would be whisked away and replaced by one of the Little Folk’s own offspring. The changeling would be deformed and unnaturally ugly. And unwanted.

The Tylwyth Teg, from oral reports as recently as the 1920s, speaks of people who are friendly, lucky though mischievous folk, living in remote areas on the mountains and in caves. The women are very beautiful, frequently dressed in green silks and satins, but the green is the

A most interesting autobiography by a doctor, originally from Northumberland who was a G.P. on Shetland before the last War includes an account of his meeting with a local ‘midwife’, who along with himself was also attending a birth at a remote farmhouse. She volunteered

22 CARDIFF TIMES

that there were two midwives, both very experienced on the island, she at age eighty was one and another, still attending mothers, was ninety-five.

She explained the essential items that were required for a safe birth. A large very rusty iron nail, to keep away the little folk, (see above), a Bible for her to read to herself in the quiet times, and a bottle of whisky to keep her going.

The day of birth was noted, and it was thought determined the personality of the child. This is one of many popular versions from the early 19th century foretelling the likely outcome for the new infant.

Sunday’s child is full of grace, Monday’s child is full in the face, Tuesday’s child is solemn and sad.

Wednesday’s child is merry and glad,

Saturday’s child works hard for a living.

The elderly midwife also explained to the Doctor that it was considered essential to get the baby christened as soon as possible after birth. Also, to get the mother “kirked” at a special service at the local place of worship. I recall quietly going through my Book of Common Prayer during a sermon too advanced for my tender ears at church, in Wales long ago with my grandma. I came across the procedure for ‘the Churching of Women’, and the note of warning that there should be no delay in attendance. The procedure should quickly follow the baby’s birth.

Another well recognised problem was that both in Wales and the Highlands and Outer Isles a new cradle was NOT allowed. It was considered unlucky and fraught with danger. I recall travelling to West Wales to collect a bassinet from family members I did not know, under strict instructions to use no other, they had insisted that this ‘family’ cradle was, without doubt, important to my expected baby’s well-being.

Thursday’s child is inclined to thieving, Friday’s child is free in giving,

Hanselling is the word for what used to be a regular practice, the unfolding by visitors and CARDIFF TIMES 23

neighbours, of the newly born baby’s hand and filling its palm with silver coins.

There was also a strong tradition, should the mother pass away, that the new baby was christened over its mother’s body.

Second Sight was considered a not that unusual gift in many families in all the Celtic countries, including the Isle of Man and Ireland. Reports, research and written articles on this topic all tell the same tales.

Many of the visions experienced by the seers such as a death bed scene, an accident with a cart, bodies tangled up having fallen from a height, or someone dying as a result of a short sudden, fatal fever.

Second sight was the faculty of seeing otherwise invisible objects or future events neither voluntary nor constant. It was frequently something of a nuisance to the possessors of the gift, who were known as seers. Many saw images once only in their lives; others more often. The images were of people known, but not necessarily close to the seer, frequently visions of an accident, impending doom or a sudden death. The visions were always dramatic and unexpected. Deeply troubling for the witness.

When Dr Samuel Johnson visited Skye in 1773 he had heard much about second sight and gave credit to it. He expressed his surprise that it was disbelieved by the clergy, while many in the Highlands held a different opinion, more in line with his own.

There were many charms to invoke or verses to repeat to try to avoid bad vibrations. Along with steering clear of many known threats and situations, care was taken regarding asking simple questions of others.

It was deemed unlucky if a stranger counts the number of your sheep, cattle or children. It was common to ask how many children you had, but hurriedly adding, “Bless them”. An odd number was considered unlucky.

Guests sitting at a table had to be served from left to right. It was considered unlucky in setting 24 CARDIFF TIMES

off to row a boat or to commence a procession at a marriage or at a funeral, unless you turned to the right.

The manifestation of second sight could also affect a group or even a crowd of people. Prior to a funeral taking place there are many reports of seeing, on the previous evening, what are referred to as corpse candles.

These would show up along the route to the place of burial from the deceased’s home.

They would appear as a long procession of lit candles, a few feet up from the ground, carried by invisible mourners.

My Grandmother (born 1875) claimed these were seen frequently on dark evenings on the track to Treorchy Cemetery in the Rhondda on the evening prior to a funeral. Not every funeral, but she never mentioned what the criteria might be.

Reference books on Folklore never fail to introduce, early information about the Druids.

These Druids, all male it would appear, were well read and well informed, and were well respected members of society. They were active well before the arrival of the Romans, and, thanks to the research, bravado, imagination and ‘sheer Showmanship’ of Iolo Morganwg remain active in Wales to the present day.

St Columba, living and preaching in the Highlands and of course on Iona, was well aware how the Druids held sway on belief systems that had existed for centuries. St Columba was preaching Christianity to the ‘heathens’ and gaining success. Gradually his preaching gained him more and more followers.

The story goes that the Easter buns we still enjoy today were previously a big part of the pagan Spring/Beltane/Mayday Celebrations.

As part of the conversion of his followers he decided to ask the bakers to mark each bun with a cross, the most significant of Christian symbols. They agreed, and we have eaten Hot Cross Buns ever since at Easter, as symbols of Christian belief.

Another tale of St Columba that is with us to this day is as follows. One day he put on his right

shoe first, and his enemies came, and he had to flee with only one foot covered. To prevent the same from happening to his followers he insisted that the left shoe should be put on first, then the right, then the left one should be tied and then the right. I have heard reports that this superstition is still widespread, in particular, with footballers.

Druidic beliefs from pre-Christian times are also interesting when great regard was awarded to the importance of fire, water and wind.

Water in particular was of great importance including snow, rain, dew, lakes, lochs, rivers, brooks, streams, springs and natural wells.

Many place names in rural Wales refer to a source of water with particular properties, especially springs with a reputation for healing.

Taffs Well was visited by many who were seeking relief from arthritis and similar pains.

Near my original home in the Rhondda, up above Ystrad on the side of the mountain, Cefn Y Rhondda, there is a well with a reputation from long before the Reformation (and

notwithstanding the Reformation) for healing blindness and many other problems with eyes.

Recently a surprising number of books have been written describing the abundance of alternative cures, mostly wells and springs that people still seek to ease their ills.

When we were living in Manorbier in Pembrokeshire some years ago my husband was involved with a plan to restore the fishponds which once were in use around the walls of the castle and had fallen into disuse. Father Gildas from Caldey Abbey was a fund of information regarding the local area. One day he was speaking of the great importance and old beliefs in water and explained in times past many, many bodies were, automatically taken across a small stretch of sea to be buried on Caldey Island, in safety. Evil spirits, he said with very considerable authority, cannot cross water.

Although no longer spoken about it is remarkable how many of these ancient superstitions have become habit or have survived in other forms of belief.

CARDIFF TIMES 25

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ANTIQUES & INTERIORS

With more than 35 different traders under one roof it is easy to while away an entire afternoon at this welcoming destination - you can even enjoy a coffee at the onsite coffee shop.

Here at The Pumping Station you will find so many wonderful examples of clothing, jewellery, antiques, furniture and home furnishings from the Victorian era right through to modern day, there really is something here for everyone.

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CARDIFF TIMES 29

My name is Ryland Harding and I’m a British Army Veteran from Bridgend, and also founder of Project Apollo.

Project Apollo is moving families from Ukraine to the safety of Poland. This is a US/UK coalition, united, to ensure that the most vulnerable are able to escape the war zone.

Our Mission is simple.

The atrocities in Ukraine have inspired us to mobilize in country capabilities for extracting vulnerable refugees, reuniting families, and providing logistical support to relief efforts.

As our movements into hazardous areas increase, we have now acquired new Level 4 body armour for our female and child passengers. This will drastically increase their safety as they are moved to their areas of refuge.

To date, Project Apollo has delivered 25 Tonnes of critical Aid to those in need inside Ukraine in association with The Association of Pallet Networks Big organisations are slow to act with too much bureaucracy. Aid sat in warehouses for days on end and slow to reach those who need it.

We are a small team, but are having a Big effect.

1

For more in formation about Project Apollo, you can email: ryland.harding@projectapollo.org.uk www.projectapollo.org.uk

CARDIFF TIMES 31

TONIGHT JOSEPHINE CARDIFF REVEALS ENTERTAINMENT LINE UP The newly-opened Caroline Street location has released a packed events schedule The Adventure Bar group has officially launched their latest Tonight Josephine venue in Cardiff. Located inside the former Charleston’s Steakhouse on Caroline Street, the bar boasts Instagram-worthy interiors and a lavish cocktail menu.

The brand new, Gen-Z-inspired venue showcases a new look for the brand and is the first of the Tonight Josephine venues to span two floors with a capacity of 294. Alongside a glittering cocktail menu and late-night adventures, Tonight Josephine Cardiff is also hosting extravagant bottomless brunches designed to encourage guests to dance at their tables whilst singing their hearts out.

impersonators battle it out in a string of singalongs and wild games.

Currently live at the venue is Moulin Rouge, a cabaretinspired event where guests can opt for either 1 or 2 hours of Bottomless Spritz cocktails, beer and bubbles and a

From 7th July, Tonight Josephine Cardiff will host weekly Sassaoke, a sing-along karaoke night, on Thursdays. This is a free evening and is not part of the Brunch lineup.

The venue boasts a list of over 30 cocktails, including new summer cocktails Sugar Daddy (Disaronno Amaretto, Chivas Regal, Cola, Fruit Juices, Citrus, served with a Twizzler) and their colour changing Karma Chameleon (Beefeater Gin, Violette Liqueur, Butterfly Pea Tea, Citrus and Lemonade).

Tom Kidd, Adventure Bar Group Founder, said “Cardiff have welcomed Tonight Josephine into the city with open arms. We could not be happier to officially be a part of this fun and vibrant city. It’s great to finally announce our exciting events schedule. We hope Cardiff is ready, for what we have planned!”

brunch menu including items such as Pulled Pork Buns, whilst enjoying three rounds of entertainment including a drag act, a showgirl and a cabaret king.

Also live is Spice Up Your Brunch, the ‘ultimate girl power get together’ hosted by three drag queens. Guests will be able to sing along to their favourite Spice Girls anthems and tuck into brunch and bottomless Spritz cocktails.

From 1st May the venue will host a weekly Mamma Mia Brunch every Sunday. Set to the backdrop of iconic ABBA tracks, this event is hosted by a West End drag act and performers as seen in Mamma Mia the Musical, on London’s West-End. The event ends in a huge sing-along battle.

The venue are set to host a weekly Pop Icons Brunch every Friday from 10th June, which sees the UK’s best Britney lookalike, plus Beyonce, and Lady Gaga drag

32 CARDIFF TIMES

Bookings are now open for Tonight Josephine Cardiff and can be made through their website:https://www. tonightjosephine.co.uk/bookings-page-tonight-josephine/ The full events schedule can be found here: https://www. tonightjosephine.co.uk/whats-on/

Bigmoose To Host ‘Run 4 Good’ Event At St David’s Hotel, Cardiff Run 4 Good is the inaugural running event that bigmoose are hosting at St David's hotel in Cardiff on Thursday 12th May, 18:30-22:00.

Whether you’ve never run before, or you are looking to up your running game, run 4 good is about inspiring runners and non-runners alike to use running for good.

The evening will have messages from speakers including Lowri Morgan, Rhys Jenkins, Lewis Robling, and many others, on how running can help with your mental health, and some quite emotional stories, that we know will inspire you.

All proceeds will go towards Project 1 Million, which provides mental health therapy and training for businesses: https://www.bigmoosecharity.co/project-1-million Join us for an evening of motivation and adventure.

Tickets are available here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/run-4-good-tickets-321243075687 and are priced at £5.80.

1 CARDIFF TIMES 33

A BRIDGE TOO FAR FOR TOMMY FARR

by Ralph Oates

Farr was known as the Tonypandy Terror and over the years he duly cultivated his ring skills the hard way by meeting an assortment of tough opponents. Some he won, some he lost, this was all part of his ring education. There was no shortcut to the top, every step up the ladder had to be fought for.

There could be no doubt that when Tommy Farr was given the opportunity to challenge Joe Louis for the World Heavyweight Championship on the 30 August 1937 few gave him any chance of bringing the title home. It was a ‘bridge too far’ for Farr was the general consensus. The Welshman was going up against a man who appeared to be impossible to defeat. Louis was a fighter who at the time was lauded by many as one of the finest heavyweights in the history of the sport to have held the crown. He was in his prime, a perfect fighting machine. When looking at the resume of Louis it was hard to argue with the fact that the Welshman had little chance of victory. At the time of his meeting with Farr the American had a reported record of 33 bouts winning 32 with just one defeat to Germany’s former world heavyweight king Max Schmeling. That particular loss was a shock knockout in round 12 of 15 on the 19th of June 1936. This was merely considered a blip in the career of Louis, one he soon recovered from with him going on to win the world crown on the 22nd of June 1937. Louis duly ascended to the throne when he knocked out the then holder James J. Braddock in round 8 of a scheduled 15.

The Welsh boxer was the first defence of the championship

by Louis. Farr was aware of the task in front of him and the mountain he had to climb to succeed.

The well-schooled American looked supreme in every department. When considering all the facts it was reasonable to assume that Louis looked a good bet not only to win but win in style by stopping his challenger long before the final bell. The fight was meant to be a showcase for Louis who would reveal his immense boxing skills against an outgunned opponent. Despite this Farr was showing every confidence prior to the bout.

Farr had to travel to the USA to contest the title, this would be the first time that Farr had fought on American soil. In fact, it was the first time for Farr to box abroad during his professional career. The Welsh boxer was born on the 12th of March 1913 in Clydach Vale Rhondda and had his first professional contest on the 17 December 1926 against opponent Jack Jones whom he outpointed over six rounds.

34 CARDIFF TIMES

On the 4th of February 1935 he met Eddie Phillips for the vacant British light-heavyweight title, the venue being Pavillon, Mountain Ash. The contest ended in disappointment for Farr when he lost a 15 round point’s decision. However, Farr notched up a good win on the 15 January 1936 at the Royal Albert Hall in Kensington, London, outpointing former world light-heavyweight king Tommy Loughran of America over the duration of 10 rounds. On the 2nd of April 1936 the Welsh fighter returned to the Royal Albert Hall where he claimed the scalp of yet another former American world light-heavyweight king when he outpointed Bob Olin over 10 rounds.

On the 14th of September 1936 he stepped into the square ring to challenge Jim Wilde for the Welsh heavyweight crown. The bout took place at the Vetch Field in Swansea. A new titleholder was crowned when Farr knocked out Wilde in the seventh of a contest scheduled for 15. It was apparent that Farr was a tough man and would not fold easily when things were going against him no matter who was opposing him. Leading up to the Louis fight Farr had captured the British and Commonwealth heavyweight titles on the 15th of March 1937 defeating Ben Foord on points over 15 rounds in a good, solid performance at the Harringay Stadium. The Welsh boxer was quickly back in the ring and on the 15th of April 1937 had what could be considered his best victory to date, outpointed former world heavyweight champion Max Baer of America over the duration of 12 rounds. When this bout was first made it seemed highly unlikely that Farr would leave the ring with a victory. However, the Welshman shone bright on the night and showed just how good he was.

On the 15th of June 1937 Farr produced yet another good victory when he knocked out Germany’s highly regarded Walter Neusel in the third of a 12 round bout at the Harringay Arena. Now the scene was set for Farr’s challenge to Louis.

On the night the venue was packed with fight enthusiasts who being truthful, thought that the American would duly dispose of Farr without too many problems and everyone would have an early night. Louis would then progress to the next defence of the title. Once the fight got underway at the Yankee Stadium, New York, it was apparent that Farr was no easy touch, no walkover, the man from the valleys was a serious contender and was not intimidated in any way by the reputation of the American who stood in front of him. It was very clear as the rounds passed that the spectators were becoming very impressed by the courage and determination of the Welshman. Both fighters used their left jab to good effect and showed good skills. Louis had the edge when they exchanged solid punches but to his credit, Farr stood his ground and fired back at every opportunity. The visitor from the UK knew that this was a chance in a million, a win

From left to right Jack Petersen, Henry Cooper and Tommy Farr. Image courtesy of Derek Rowe. here would not only shock the world but open all kinds of doors for him. (The last British born boxer to hold the world heavyweight title was Cornwall’s Bob Fitzsimmons who reigned from 17 March 1897 to the 9 June 1899) The hard-fought fight lasted until the fifteenth and final round, whereby Farr was declared the loser on points. Louis had retained the championship and Farr, by his performance, had won the respect of all who watched the contest. Farr had lost but he was beaten by one of the finest fighters in the history of the sport and in that there was no disgrace.

After the courageous showing against Louis there was a degree of hope that should Farr put together a series of impressive victories, he could well land another shot at Louis for the world title at a future date. However, such grandiose plans were badly derailed when Farr lost his next four bouts in a row all of which took place in America. The Welshman later resumed his career back in the UK and registered a few wins along the way. The victories included a bout which took place on the 7 August 1940 when Farr ducked between the ropes to meet opponent Zachary Nicholas at the Market Hall in Barnstaple. Farr won the bout in round 3 of 10 by way of a stoppage. Soon after Farr announced his retirement from boxing. It did not seem likely that the Welshman would ever return to the sport. However, on the 27 September 1950, Farr made a return to the ring and at Ynysangharad Park in Pontypridd, he knocked out Jan Klein of the Netherlands in round 6 of a Scheduled 10. When considering that the Welshman had not fought for a period of 10 years, 1 month and 20 days this was a good performance. This was followed by a further victory on the 6 November 1950 when at the Granby Halls in Leicester, Piet Wilde of Belgium was unable

to complete the distance of 10 rounds when he was knocked out in the third stanza. It is often said that in every life a little rain must fall. Well, Farr was caught in a shower in his following two ring outings which saw him lose. The defeats may well have made many a boxer rethink his future at this stage. Yet Farr, never a quitter, continued and in his next 11 outings won 9 and lost 2 of his bouts. One of the said victories saw him regain his Welsh Area Heavyweight title on the 7 July 1951 from holder Dennis Powell by way of a 6 round stoppage in a bout set for 12, the venue being the Welsh Midland Showground, Shrewsbury, Shropshire.

On the 9th of March 1953 Farr was paired with Don Cockell in a 12 round eliminator contest for the British heavyweight title. (The reigning British and Commonwealth heavyweight champion at the time was Johnny Williams). The bout between Farr and Cockell took place at the Ice Rink in Nottingham. Cockell was a fighter of experience, being a former British and European light-heavyweight champion.

Cockell came into the ring armed with a record of 70 professional contests with 58 wins, 11 defeats and 1 draw.

Any hope Farr had of once again going for a shot at the British heavyweight title was dispelled when Cockell secured the victory with a win by a 7 round stoppage. This brought an end to an amazing boxing career for Farr.

Tommy Farr was very popular, an outstanding fighter and a man of dignity who represented all that was good in boxing. He left the sport with a reported record of 143 bouts professional bouts, winning 88 losing 34 drawing 19 with 2 no contests. Sadly Farr passed away on the 1st of March 1986 on St. David’s Day, a proud Welshman to the very end.

CARDIFF TIMES 35

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A Hero of the People at the Sherman Theatre This month Sherman Theatre stages its latest Made at Sherman production. A Hero of the People is acclaimed Welsh playwright Brad Birch’s bold new reimagining of Henrik Ibsen’s classic play An Enemy of the People.

The gripping contemporary drama pits the personal against the political and facts against emotion as it follows MP Mick Powell, who is optimistic about his plan to introduce fracking to his South Wales town. He’s sure that everything is going to be fine, better than fine, in fact there’s nothing that can’t be achieved if everyone just believes a little. The naysayers just need to pipe down.

But there’s a problem. His sister, Dr Rhiannon Powell, has discovered that the project appears to be polluting the town’s water supply. Mick sold the town a story about the future, but what will happen when reality looks to tear that story apart?

What will the cost be for himself, his family and his town? Is he in too deep?

A Hero of the People will be performed by an exceptional Welsh and Wales-based cast. Oliver Ryan will play Mick Powell, and is joined by Suzanne Packer who will play Mick’s sister Dr Rhiannon Powell. Mared Jarman joins the cast as Mick’s daughter Hannah Powell-Morris alongside Catrin Stewart as journalist Elin Tate and Pal Aron playing landowner Patrick.

The play will be directed by Sherman Theatre Artistic Director Joe Murphy, whose recent production of A Christmas Carol delighted audiences in December. He said “I am absolutely thrilled to be working with such an exciting cast and brilliant creative team for A Hero of the People. This talented team will bring something unique to this gripping play.”

In his reimagining of Ibsen’s classic, Brad Birch asks: hero or enemy, who can tell the difference? Joe said “Brad is writing a taut, moving and thought-provoking script that I think will fire up both the hearts and minds of our audiences. It has been so inspiring to watch him tackle this play head on and bring it crashing in to 21st Century Wales.”

Brad added: “I’m delighted to be reunited with Joe for this show back home at the brilliant Sherman Theatre. The world feels strange and fragile and unpredictable at the moment and we are using this retelling of one of our great modern myths to try and make sense of it.”

A Hero of the People is at Sherman Theatre in Cardiff from 13 – 28 May. Tickets are £20, with tickets for under 25s half price. Audio Described, BSL, Captioned and Socially Distanced performances are available. For more information and tickets visit shermantheatre.co.uk

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Raising Awareness of Sepsis

by Natalie McCulloch “Knowledge itself is power” Sir Francis Bacon famously proclaimed. Centuries later, this seems pertinent when considering ‘The UK Sepsis Trust” mission to equip more people with the ‘know how’ to help them gain the power to avoid preventable deaths!

Did you know that every hour in the UK 5 people die with Sepsis? That amounts to at least 48,000 people a year in the UK alone.

Just these facts alone suggest there’s really no better time to get SEPSIS SAVVY!

• Have a ‘fit’ or convulsion, or look mottled, bluish, or pale

So what is Sepsis?

• Have a rash that does not fade when you press it

Sepsis (also known as blood poisoning) is a potentially lifethreatening condition, triggered by the immune system’s overreaction to an infection or injury. Normally our immune system fights infection – but sometimes, for reasons we don’t yet understand, it attacks our body’s own organs and tissues.

• If under 5 years old they may not be feeding, vomiting repeatedly or had a wee or wet nappy for 12 hours

Some important points to consider are: • If not treated immediately, sepsis can result in organ failure and death.

• It can be difficult to spot but knowing the ‘tell-tale’ signs could well save your life or others.

• It can affect anyone, regardless of age or state of health.

• For many patients, if sepsis is caught early, it can be easy to treat. With early diagnosis, thousands more lives a year in the UK alone, could be saved.

So, once again, it comes down to knowledge is power!

What are some of the key signs of Sepsis?

In adults: • It may feel like you have flu, gastroenteritis or a chest infection at first.

• Early symptoms include fever, chills and shivering, a fast heartbeat and quick breathing.

• Symptoms of sepsis or septic shock include feeling dizzy or faint, confusion or disorientation, nausea and vomiting, diarrhoea and cold, clammy and pale or mottled skin.

In children: • They may be breathing very fast

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If you can relate to these symptoms – don’t wait! Especially if they seem to be deteriorating. If someone has one or more of the sepsis symptoms, call 999. If you’re concerned about an infection, call 111. Or contact your GP and just ask: Could it be sepsis?

This is just a brief introduction to Sepsis, but there is so much more knowledge to be gained and you have the power to do that thanks to the help of organisations such as The Sepsis Trust UK. Their mission is to provide clear information, support to cope with diagnosis, supportive empathetic ears, information on treatment options and much much more. But all of this wouldn’t be possible without support from volunteers, fundraisers and the public – so it really is a matter of ‘manpower’ when it comes to the battle with Sepsis.

To celebrate the 10th birthday of ‘The UK Sepsis Trust’, they have launched the ‘Power up’ campaign to help raise awareness, offer support to those affected and help prevent avoidable deaths.

Will you take the time to “Power up” to help fight against sepsis and to gain the knowledge to spot the live saving signs of Sepsis and educate others to do the same?

One local champion who is keen to ‘Power Up’ and increase knowledge of Sepsis is Tony Hamer. He’s following in the footsteps of Felix Baumgartner who broke the record for the highest skydive back in 2012, coincidentally the same year The UK Sepsis Trust launched. Tony wanted to do something extreme to raise funds and awareness of Sepsis to mirror the severity of the condition. So, on June 11th 2022 Tony will be doing his first ever skydive in order to raise these vital funds and awareness.

He told me “I’m very anxious about the skydive, it’s my first ever, but I knew I wanted to do something extreme, my friend contracted sepsis, I knew very little about it, he spent 3 weeks in a coma, he’s home now and thankfully making small steps to recover, this is what I feel I can do to help”.

Tony has bravely committed to ‘POWER UP’ to get sepsis savvy, could you do the same? (Please note:- It doesn’t have to be anything as extreme as a skydive!)

So, why is awareness so important?

Ten years ago, Dr Ron Daniels was motivated to create the UK Sepsis Trust after witnessing the tragic and preventable death of 37-year-old father of two, Jem Abbots.

He knew that with the proper awareness and training, early diagnosis and treatment could save many lives.

Since 2012, The UK Sepsis Trust, have been working hard to empower millions of people to spot the signs of sepsis, support struggling families and educate medical staff.

However, with more than 48,000 people still dying of sepsis every year and over 60,000 survivors left with life-altering challenges, there is far more work to be done!

The money you donate really does make a huge difference too – 28p of every £1 goes directly to raising public awareness, 23p to educating health care professionals and 15p to fund support networks for those affected. Asides from this the remaining money is used to drive change and develop strategies of fundraising. So not a single penny is wasted or taken for granted!

Will you join in the birthday celebrations to make sure more people can celebrate theirs?

If you would like to donate to The Sepsis Trust UK or find out more information, please log onto https://sepsistrust. org/about/about-sepsis/

CARDIFF TIMES 41

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13 – 28 May / Mai 2022 24 MAY / MAI 7.30PM 28 MAY / MAI 2PM

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By / Gan Brad Birch After / ArHERO ôl An Enemy of the People by /OF gan Henrik Ibsen A Directed by / Cyfarwyddwyd gan Joe Murphy

THE PEOPLE

Hero or enemy? Who can actually tell the difference?

Arwr neu elyn? Pwy all ddweud y gwahaniaeth?

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By / Gan Brad Birch After / Ar ôl An Enemy of the People by / gan Henrik Ibsen Directed by / Cyfarwyddwyd gan Joe Murphy

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Image / Llun: Extra Strong

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Image / Llun: Extra Strong