CARDIFF TIMES
Do you know it’s Christmas?
by Wyn Evans
I’m sat at my desk early on a Monday morning with the radio on, thinking about what I listen to and how unsupported by evidence my listening behaviour has been. I’m thinking in particular of what I have on at breakfast, lunchtime, teatime and when going to bed. I guess it’s no surprise that I listen now to what I’ve always listened to, the boy is father of the man. I have never thought to justify the many hours I spend listening to the radio. Maybe I should have and also consider time spent on streaming services and the TV, on movies, social media, and gaming. But it would all get a bit complex and the bulk of my interface has been with the radio, so I’ll stick with that.
Back to the radio. Dad was in charge of the remotes (like father, like son!). Not that there were remotes sixty years ago. It would be truer to note that dad was responsible for physically tuning in the radio. Thus, dad had the power that went with being Guardian of the Airwaves. As best I can remember (it was a very long time ago) my parents used to listen to the old BBC Home Service for Radio 4-type programmes. Mam would get dad to swap over to the BBC
Light Service at certain times of day for Radio 2-type music. My stake in the game used to be centred around Sunday lunchtimes. I used to want Dad to tune in to the British Forces Broadcasting Service for Two-Way Family Favourites – a radio request show, followed by comedies The Navy Lark, Whack-o! or the Jimmy Clitheroe Show (“where’s me shirt?!”)
Today, I really am in charge of the remotes. The Boss rarely gets a look in, but she says she’s happy with my choices for the soundtrack to our lives. I have some inkling that she would spend the day with Radio 2, but my favourite Radio 4 usually gets the nod. Breakfast-time sees the Today programme in all its glory (I still miss Brian Redhead and John Humphrys and remain undecided about Amol Rajan and Emma Barnett). At lunchtime, The World at One floats my boat (from which I still miss the pre-Today James Naughtie and enjoy Sarah Montague). Tea-time sees PM with the wonderful Evan Davis. Later in the evening, however, I have deserted Radio 4’s The World Tonight in favour of watching movies or series on Netflix or
Prime. However, lest you think me too stuck in my ways, let me say a few words in favour of Times Radio, available on an App and on DAB. Stig Abell and Aasmah Mir cover news and current affairs but take a more relaxed approach to news than today, with much laughter. Mid morning to early afternoon Hugo Rifkind does an excellent job covering news, current affairs, reviews and interviews. Andrew Neil has an hour from 1pm, Fi Glover and Jane Garvey do their mid-afternoon thing with John Pienaar in the evening. I’ve spent a whole paragraph on this because of how pleasantly surprising it has been to find a talk-radio news-station that can hold a candle to Radio 4, albeit without offering the width and depth of non-news content.
Radio was the default option sixty years ago. Not many families had a telly. Those that did had a black and white set and there were only two channels: the licence-funded BBC 1 and advertisement-funded ITV. BBC 2 started in 1964 and by 1967 was Europe’s first TV channel to broadcast regularly in colour. (This was a great relief to lovers of snooker, who had grown used in the black and white days to being told things like “the blue is tucked behind the pink.”) No Channels 4 or 5, no SKY, no 24-hour rolling news, no movie channels, No Discovery or TNT, no Sport, no Podcasts or TikTok, and no Children’s channels.
Of course, while there were no children’s channels there were children’s programmes. It’s easy to remember what they were, primarily on BBC 1: Play School, Jackanory, Blue Peter, Animal Magic, and Crackerjack. Eventually these would be supported by Vision On with Tony Hart, Magpie, Grange Hill, Rainbow, Sesame Street, and Press Gang (with Julia Sawalha and Dexter Fletcher). There were many more of course. My list, obviously, stems from what my sisters and I watched (and were allowed to watch).
As for children’s programmes, so for sports programmes. The BBC had Saturday Grandstand, which featured horse racing, some esoteric sports, Rugby League, a preview of the football results (featuring the video-printer), and the final results (with the voice of Len Martin).
It was fun to listen to Len’s intonation of the first team in any couplet and guess if the game was a home or away-win or a draw. And ITV had wrestling. Mick McManus was my all-time favourite. They were exciting times!
Luckily, The Boss and I have very few arguments with The Girl, our 18-year-old daughter who has Down Syndrome, about what to watch or listen. She prefers to sing along to her CDs, karaoke style, and dance in front of the mirror. The only time she gets bossy is when in the car – when she insists on Radio 2 (even if that eejit Jeremy Vine is on). I don’t begrudge her this as she lets me have Classic FM occasionally!
And so, it’s that time of year again. Time for the tree to come down from the attic; time not to send the cards; time to decide what xmas main course we’ll have now The Girl is nearly two years into being a vegetarian; time to visit friends and gorge inordinately on cake and wine; and time to listen to the 40th anniversary remix of “Do they know it’s Christmas” about a million times as it is re-released once again. Have you read some of the attacks on the song this year? Singers, charities, newspaper editorials and some Twitter users have criticised the charity single calling it “patronising” and “detrimental to Africa”. Apparently, it infantilises Africans and is full of Western colonialism. The process behind Band Aid and the role of Bob Geldoff is equally criticised.
I have no particular candle to burn for Beardie Bob. I was, however, around when Band Aid did its thing and the BBC was reporting nightly about dying men, women, and children during the 1983-1985 Ethiopian famine. “Do they know its’ Christmas?” is the charity song written by Bob Geldoff and Midge Ure in 1984, and sung by the supergroup Band Aid. This year’s remix includes new words, to address the lyrics regarded as egregious by some commentators. Forty years ago this song, and the process that led up to it, galvanised a nation’s response and raised millions of pounds for charity. I hope this year’s offering will prove just as successful.
Yes, we know it’s Christmas and we wish all our readers a blessed time with their loved ones.
Beneath The Skies by Heather Leeson
‘And Another Thing...’ Bromyard or Bombed Yard?by Vince
Nolan
The Current Mrs Nolan and I often sojourn across the border on weekends to do missionary work in England land. This can be Bath, Slimbridge, Gloucester, Leominster etc where we take in the ambience and have some lunch. I know, I spoil that woman. Very occasionally we go off piste and explore a new town or village which we are passing. This usually works well but recently backfired badly. In a nutshell, if you are ever thinking of going to Bromyard in Herefordshire, don’t. We went there recently, and it was closed. Picture if you will Cowbridge (for size and layout). There was only one car park and here is the non-working parking meter. We walked through the village and saw nobody despite there being an alleged population of 3,800. No cafes were open, no shops and for some reason there was an Italian bank on the High Street (Banca D’Italia), honest. Having found all this out I went into the local theatre which was handily placed next to the aforementioned car park and asked if their café was open. “Not really” came the helpful reply from the bloke behind the counter in the café.
Nothing for it but to leave Bomb Yard and call into a garden centre we had passed en route for some victuals. Looking at Christmas trinketry, in a garden centre, on a Sunday, is not us (yet), but we had no choice. If we had wanted to go to a garden centre, we could have gone to the one three miles from home and not one some 60 miles distant. My how we laughed.
Apparently, Bromyard is mentioned in the Domesday Book. A bit of a clue there. Its’ name derives from
the Olde English: “An enclosure covered or fenced with Broom or Gorse.” It should be covered with ten metres of earth which would be an improvement. It’s not just us either. I found this recent critique of an establishment in said town:
“I understand fully now that both owners were alcoholics. The beer was off and tasted like vinegar and as for the meals, we had a roast dinner. Well, meat with cold goose fat, non- cooked roast potatoes. I mean, I ask you, a chef who can’t cook a roast dinner! Come on England, for God’s sake. We not be eating or drinking here again, total rip off.” Hmmm!
Driving into the Metrolops to pick up She Who Must Be Obeyed, I encountered a major monsoon. However, I was much cheered by a lady student who although not being equipped with appropriate clothing for the weather, emerged from a corner shop with a large pack of toilet rolls balanced on her head thus keeping her dry and also handy in case of a different emergency. Going to graduate with Honours that one. Coincidentally, I just had a stack of toilet rolls fall on me in the supermarket. I’m ok though, just soft tissue damage.
Say what you see. Chicken sees a salad of course. It’s so annoying when people get their sayings wrong. After all, it’s not rocket salad. Recently seen on a pub menu in Devon: Cornish Calms & samphire, Pigs in balnkets and Herfordshire Chicken supreme Ceasar salad. We all make the occasional typos but really? This ended up printed and out on the tables.
announced a £400m investment starting now.
Park 1 and the long stay car park as……………yes,
Given our Grandson is called Jack, here is a top
a Che Guevara book. The other passenger turns
one? Anyway, trainee journalist Olivia Endellion Mowl let us know that the turn off to Bath was
LIGHTBULB MOMENTS
BRIGHTEN UP WINTER DAYS WITH US!
y 100+ HANDS-ON EXHIBITS
y LIVE SCIENCE SHOWS
y KLA LAB WORKSHOPS
y STAR TOURS IN THE PLANETARIUM
OPEN 10am - 5pm EVERY WEEKEND and throughout the holidays*
*Closed on 24,25,26 December & 1 January
Celebrate the season with friends and enjoy all the fun of Techniquest without a child in sight! plus Welcome drink, pay-bar, food station, Star Tours, Live Science Show and more…
THU 12 DECEMBER
7pm / Tickets £15
Light Up the Festive Season at Techniquest
Winter days can feel short and dark, but Techniquest has a smorgasbord of fun inside that will brighten things up dramatically!
Get ready for some ‘lightbulb moments’ and discover a host of fascinating science facts, exploring two floors of curious contraptions, perplexing puzzles and digital gateways to a world of knowledge.
There are over 100 hands-on exhibits to choose from, bringing science to life in a huge variety of ways: steer an underwater ROV, create digital fireworks, race a friend on the rocket launch, generate electricity and light up some bulbs, make plasma trails and coloured shadows in the low-light zone, test out gravity on the giant silver slide, or feel the full force of a hurricane — the choice is yours.
On top of all that, live science show Ice, Ice Maybe is back in the Science Theatre, and both Star Tours and the 360° film We Are Guardians will be running in the Planetarium.
After selling out last year, the annual Kids’ Christmas
Party is back for two dates instead of just one, to cope with demand. Starting at 5.30pm on Saturday 7 and Saturday 14 December, they’re both complete with Santa walkaround and Christmas music and crafts as well as the chance to catch a wintry live science show as part of the deal. There’s also the option to upgrade your ticket and snuggle down for a family film in the Science Theatre, for the full festive experience: choose from either The Muppet Christmas Carol or Arthur Christmas, depending on which date you book.
And for adults, After Hours at Christmas is back, generously supported by Admiral. From 7pm on Thursday 12 December you can have all the fun the kids usually have at Techniquest, but without a child in sight. Tickets include a welcome drink on arrival, plus entry to the Planetarium for a Star Tour — but you’ll need to be quick as these tend to fill up at roughly the speed of light, so it’s ‘first come, first served’ when you make your booking for the night.
Holiday sessions at Techniquest often sell out too: so if you want to be sure of making some amazing Christmas memories on a trip that’s guaranteed to be a hit with all the family, book ahead now at techniquest.org.
In The Words Of by
Carl Marsh
December 2024
It is the season to be jolly… Happy Christmas! And if you don’t celebrate it, then enjoy December, how you so please.
Interviews this month…
If you asked me as a kid which artist I was in awe of for his impressive shows… it would be this guy! He’s still touring - and improving on - The War of The Worlds. It’s a few months away still, but now’s the right time for last-minute Christmas present gifts/ideas!
My second interview is for those who love podcasts. Winning a Bronze at The British Podcast Awards for Best Comedy, long listed for Channel 4’s ‘National Comedy Awards’; the latest series was nominated for a Chortle Award. This podcaster has a new series called, ‘Brainwash Me with… Poppy Hillstead’
Movie Review - Trap
I’m under the belief that when M. Night Shyamalan asked one of his kids [Saleka] what they desired for their birthday one year, it was a movie starring them, centred around their real music [which only ever appears in Shyamalan’s recent offerings!] and a huge [wishful thinking] stadium concert… oh, and it contains a serial killer in Josh Hartnett. The film starts decent but transcends too much into the dire music and performances of Saleka’s character, Lady Raven. Josh Hartnett’s talents are wasted in this movie, and towards the middle, it feels like he too knows this and perhaps plays the role for laughs - and payment for acting in this letdown of a movie. The movie had no twist at the end that you’d come to expect from anything Shyamalan has done before such as The Sixth Sense, Unbreakable and The Village, which to me, are his masterpieces. The trap is a real letdown and waste of
an evening’s TV viewing.
Food Review - Honest Burgers, 10 Church Street, Cardiff
Who doesn’t like a good burger, whether that be real or fake meat? Honest Burgers offer whatever burger you desire! It was a place I had wanted to visit for quite a while, and it has lived up to expectations. Seeing as it’s building up to Christmas, I went for ‘The Camembert Burger Your Way’. Containing bacon, cranberry sauce, rocket… I chose the beef burger patty, but you can select a vegan Beyond Meat option, or fried chicken too. Oh, it’s got Camembert which is deep fried. I am told this monthly special is available through January 6th, 2025, so you’ve plenty of time to visit. If I am “honest” with myself, I will be coming back to Honest Burgers!
Food Review - The Ivy Asia, 45 The Hayes, Saint Davids Centre, Cardiff
I have been able to sample The Ivy, next door a couple of times, and I was not overtly satisfied when I compared it to other restaurants. The Ivy Asia is somewhat of a masterclass in how to do an Asian restaurant above and beyond what I expected. It carries a menu from countries throughout Asia and does it exceedingly well. I opted for the Festive Samurai Menu which costs £35 from Sunday to Thursday after 5 pm. My starter was the ‘Prawn Har Gow Dumplings’. For the main, ‘Turkey Rendang’ with a side of ‘Woke Fried Kimchi Brussels Sprouts & Steamed Rice’. I did have a dessert too of the ‘Reindeer’, which was an additional £5, but wasn’t a real reindeer, just some lovely dark chocolate mousse! I will be returning.
Enjoy Christmas and see you in 2025!
Carl Marsh
Interview with Jeff Wayne Words by
Carl Marsh
Originally planned to tour not long after the 1978 album release of “Jeff Wayne’s Musical Version of The War of the Worlds”, but it wasn’t until 2006 that the tour commenced. “Jeff Wayne’s The War of the Worlds: The Spirit of Man Tour 2025” hits Cardiff’s Utilita Arena on Wednesday 16th & Thursday 17th April 2025. Get your tickets now!
Carl Marsh
I have got to ask you what it was like to work with Welsh acting royalty Richard Burton for the album in 1978; was he as intense due to his reputation, perhaps due to his vices, as the press liked to make out?
Jeff Wayne
You know, you’re not wrong in terms of the reputation that I think he had as he was in the papers many times and even on TV shows that maybe exposed that darker side if you want to call it that. But that’s not the guy I worked with.
When he signed on, it was about as easy as it could get for him to say, ‘Yeah, I love the idea’. His manager called me personally, and I have never forgotten the words because he was appearing in a show in New York called “Equus”… and there were no emails, no technology in those days.
So, I wrote him a personal letter, sent the script that we were working with that had just been completed from my original double album and sent it to the stage door of the theatre where he was appearing, hoping I’d just get a response.
But his manager rang me within no more than a few days of receiving my little care package. And the words I’ll never forget after we said hello to each other.
Lance was his name, and he said: ‘Richard loves the idea of being “The Journalist”. Count him in, dear boy’. The only thing was that we had to go to him in California because he was leaving “Equus” within a few weeks to start a new movie. And that was fine. We set it up. My whole creative team and I travelled to Los Angeles to work with him… and coming specifically to your question, we didn’t know which Richard Burton was going to walk through the door.
He was the most charming man. He had a contract to give us five days of his time. He did it all in one day. He was brilliant. Off-mic, in the tea breaks and things, he was a great companion.
And because my first assembly of the double album was too long, I needed Richard to come back. And this time he came through London, and in no more than a few hours, he did it again. So brilliantly. But if I were to conclude your question, if I may. He asked me, soon after “The War of the Worlds” came out as he had been asked to do a TV special for one of the major TV networks. He was going to do a special reading on the works of Dylan Thomas, who he was a friend with.
He wanted to know if I would compose the score for the show, and he didn’t have to wait for more than a heartbeat for me to reply! I was there because we had gotten on so well.
And when he next came through London, we got together and spent the better part of the day together and it was a greeting that was as if it was a long lost brother, so to speak. And so, I’m sorry if I’ve been too longwinded, but I just wanted to express unlike any reputational things that was some of his baggage, that wasn’t the Richard I knew and worked with.
“Jeff Wayne’s The War of the Worlds: The Spirit of Man Tour 2025”Cardiff’s Utilita Arena Wednesday 16th & Thursday 17th April 2025.
Robert
Interview with Poppy Hillstead
Words by Carl Marsh
Podcasts are a part of our lives so much these days, and rightly so! Poppy Hillstead is very good at them. As well as the audio version, you can see the filmed version on YouTube of her latest offering: “Brainwash Me with Poppy Hillstead”. Some of the content is aimed at the over-18s, so do tread lightly when listening. It’s all good fun.
Carl Marsh
When I watched “Brainwash Me…”, it reminded me of that old Channel Four show, Eurotrash, so is this your British take on that show and the idea behind this show?
Poppy Hillstead
What was the idea behind the podcast? [Laughs] I’m struggling to think what I think it was… I set myself the challenge of creating a kind of lower-concept podcast than my last podcast. With my last podcast, I’d go into chat rooms, and then talk to people, then I’d get actors and comedians to reenact the chats. So, I just wanted something chilled and normal. And then I just couldn’t help but suggest, ‘Can we buy a 500 quid brain scanner and then if my brain waves peak by guests, and they’ve convinced me to be into whatever they’re into?’ So, it came from there. And then I love editing and creating and knew I’d love a podcast version of it that you can just listen to wherever of me chatting to these interesting people.
I always have to overcomplicate everything as I sugggested that it would be cool to have a green
screen in the background that you can constantly change, so that’s maybe, like, why it’s looking a bit like Eurotrash!
Carl Marsh
Some people do the podcasts every week, is that what this is, or have you got them all recorded for a limited run?
Poppy Hillstead
No, I’ve got a load in the bank. So, yeah, we’ve got a big chunk in the bank, just so I have time to edit everything. I’ve still got a headache from one I recorded about three days ago because I had a medieval combat fighter - which is an actual sport. I had this amazing woman called Samantha, and she brought her swords. I don’t know if she had an axe, I can’t remember. And this helmet that they wear when they’re actually in battle where they properly hit each other. So yeah, I just had a fun time getting hit in the head with the sword whilst I was wearing the Knight’s helmet. But it was interesting actually because when I got there and met her, she was saying how she hadn’t done a podcast before. I said, ‘Oh yeah, it’s gonna be chilled and fine’. And when we went downstairs to the studio, I opened the door, Bobby Davro was there. He’d been recording something before on my friends’ podcast, and I was just like, ‘Oh my God!’. I just didn’t have time to explain to her why I didn’t know why Bobby Davro was here. By the time we put the brain scanner on, my heart was racing, and I think it was just pure adrenaline as my attention was going all over the place. I think it was just the shock of Bobby Davro being in the studio! [Laughter]
“Brainwash Me with Poppy Hillstead” is available now wherever you get your podcasts. And it’s on YouTube too.
Dychwelwch i’r ystafell ddosbarth yn 2025gallech chi newid eich bywyd!
Mae Dysgu Gydol Oes ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd yn rhoi croeso cynnes i oedolion sy’n dysgu. Does dim angen cymwysterau blaenorol, dim ond diddordeb mewn pwnc.
Mae ein cyrsiau byr a rhan-amser (ar-lein neu wyneb yn wyneb) yn berffaith i roi hwb i’ch CV, ennill credydau tuag at gymhwyster neu i gadw’ch meddwl yn fywiog. Rydyn ni’n cynnig amrywiaeth eang o bynciau sy’n dechrau trwy gydol y gwanwyn ac yn annog y rhai sydd heb fod mewn addysg ers tro i deimlo’n hyderus a theimlo bod ganddyn nhw’r gallu i ddysgu.
Gallwch chi ddysgu er mwynhad neu symud ymlaen i astudio ymhellach (neu’r ddau!) gan ein bod ni hefyd yn cynnig Llwybrau at radd i’ch helpu chi i gael mynediad at astudiaethau israddedig. Byddwch chi’n derbyn cefnogaeth ac anogaeth ar bob cam o’r ffordd.
Efallai y bydd stori Emily yn eich annog chi i ddilyn eich breuddwydion: “Roedd y Llwybr yn hynod hyblyg ac yn hygyrch i mi. Allwn i ddim fforddio cwtogi fy oriau gwaith ac roedd yn rhyddhad dod o hyd i ddosbarth oedd yn cael ei gynnal gyda’r nos. Doedd e ddim wedi effeithi ar fy ngwaith felly roedd yn berffaith! Ar ben hynny, roedd y llwyth gwaith yn gyson ac yn gytbwys a doeddwn i byth yn teimlo fy mod i’n methu ymdopi. Doeddwn i ddim wedi bod mewn ystafell ddosbarth ers rhai blynyddoedd, ond fe wnaeth y tiwtoriaid yn ein cefnogi a chynnig help a chyngor i ni. Fe wnes i wir fwynhau’r Llwybr ac mae wedi bod yn braf gweld eraill yn symud ymlaen i wneud gradd israddedig hefyd. Byddwn i’n annog unrhyw un sydd mewn sefyllfa debyg i mi i gofrestru!”
Graddiodd Emily gyda gradd mewn nyrsio oedolion o Brifysgol Caerdydd yn 2023.
https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/cy/part-time-courses-for-adults 029 2087 0000 learn@caerdydd.ac.uk
Return to the classroom in 2025 - you could change your life!
Lifelong Learning at Cardiff University provides a warm welcome to adult learners. You do not need previous qualifications, just an interest in a subject.
Our short and part-time courses (online or in-person) are perfect to boost your CV, earn credits towards a qualification or to keep your mind active. We provide a wide variety of subjects starting throughout the spring and encourage those who have been away from education for a while to feel confident and empowered to learn.
You can learn for enjoyment or to progress to further study (or both!) as we also offer Pathways to a degree to help you access undergraduate studies. You will receive support and encouragement at every step of the way.
Emily’s story may encourage you to follow your dreams:
“The Pathway was incredibly flexible and accessible for me. I could not afford to cut back on my work hours and it was a relief to find a class running in the evening. My work was not affected so it was perfect! Additionally, the workload was steady and balanced and I never felt overwhelmed. I had not been in a classroom for a good few years, but the tutors really supported us and provided help and advice. I genuinely enjoyed the Pathway and it has been nice to watch others also progress onto an undergraduate degree. I would urge anybody who is in a similar situation to me to enrol!”
Emily graduated with a degree in adult nursing from Cardiff University in 2023.
www.cardiff.ac.uk/learn 029 2087 0000 learn@cardiff.ac.uk
CHRISTMAS BOXING QUIZ A series of 25 questions about Welsh Boxing
by Ralph Oates
1. In which round did Jimmy Wilde knockout opponent Will Rees on the 12 April 1913?
(a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 3
2. Where in Wales was Jim Driscoll born?
(a) Cardiff (b) Swansea (c) Merthyr Tydfil
3. Over how many rounds did Tommy Farr outpoint Trevor Herbert on the 18 May 1929?
(a) 6 (b) 8 (c) 10
4. Dai Dower won the European flyweight title on the 8 March 1955 when he defeated holder Nazzareno Giannelli by which method?
(a) 6 round stoppage (b) 9 round knockout (c) 15 round points decision
5. Going into the contest with Nazzareno Giannelli, Dai Dower was undefeated in how many professional contests?
(a) 22 (b) 23 (c) 24
6. On the 14 September 1959 Howard Winstone stopped his opponent Joe Taylor in which round?
(a) 4 (b) 6 (c) 7
7. Where in Wales did the Winstone-Taylor contest take place?
(a) Yns Field, Aberdare (b) Welfare Ground Aberdare (c) Coney Beach Arena, Porthcawl.
Photograph Brian Curvis see question 9 Image courtesy of Derek Rowe
8. Carl Gizzi won the vacant Welsh heavyweight title on the 28 June 1965 when he stopped opponent Len Rocky James in which round?
(a) 4 (b) 5 (c) 6
9. During his professional career former British and Empire welterweight champion Brian Curvis participated in 41 contests. How many bouts did he lose?
(a) 2 (b) 3 (c) 4
10. Which version of the world cruiserweight title did Enzo Maccarinelli hold during his career?
(a) WBO (b) WBA (c) IBF
11. In which year did former British, European and Commonwealth welterweight champion Colin Jones make his professional debut.
(a) 1976 (b) 1977 (c) 1978
12. In which weight division did Floyd Havard hold a British title?
(a) Bantamweight (b) Featherweight (c) Superfeatherweight.
13. Where in Wales was Floyd Havard born?
(a) Swansea (b) Llanelli (c) Port Talbot
14. Over how many rounds did Lee Selby outpoint opponent Ian Bailey on the 10 August 2009?
(a) 4 (b) 6 (c) 8
15. Which version of the world featherweight title did Lee Selby hold during his professional career?
(a) WBA (b) WBC (c) IBF
16. What was the reported height of former British heavyweight champion David Pearce?
(a) 6ft. (b) 6ft 1inch (c) 6ft 2inches
17. Which former boxer was nicknamed The Rock?
(a) Robert Dickie (b) Gavin Rees (c) Steve Robinson.
18. Which former boxer was not born in Wales?
(a) Brian Curvis (b) Ralph Charles (c) Lennie Williams
19. Which former boxer did not box in the USA during his professional career?
(a) Tommy Farr (b) Colin Jones (c) Dai Dower.
20. On the 5 February 2022 Liam Williams was defeated by Chris Eubank Jr by which method in a scheduled 12 round contest?
(a) 5 round stoppage (b) 8 round knockout (c) Points decision.
21. Where did the Williams-Eubank jr. contest take place?
(a) Cardiff International Area (b) Ice Arena Cardiff (c) Vale Sports Arena Cardiff.
22. Where in Wales is the British Boxing Board of Control situated?
(a) Swansea (b) Cardiff (c) Merthyr Tydfil
23. On the 11 May 2024 Lauren Price won the WBA and IBO world welterweight titles when she defeated defending champion Jessica McCaskill by which method?
(A) 9 round technical points decision (b) 11 round stoppage (c) 10 round points decision.
24. At this stage of her career Lauren Price was now undefeated in how many professional
contests?
(a) 6 (b) 7 (c) 8
25. On the 17 August 2024 Victoria Perkins won the vacant Welsh super-bantamweight title when she defeated opponent Ashleigh Johnson by which method?
(a) 6 round stoppage (b) 8 round knockout (c) 10 round points decision.
Wishing readers a Happy Christmas and New Year.
Answers
1. 2.
2. Cardiff.
3. 8.
15. IBF.
16. 6ft.
17. Gavin Rees.
4. 15 round points decision. 18. Ralph Charles.
5. 23.
6. 4.
19. Dai Dower.
20. Points decision.
7. Welfare Ground, Ebbw Vale. 21. Cardiff International Arena.
8. 5.
9. 4.
10. WBO.
11. 1977.
12. Super-featherweight.
13. Swansea.
14. 6.
22. Cardiff.
23. 9 round technical points decision.
24. 7.
25. 10 round points decision.
A heavyweight who moved like a middleweight. His name was Muhammad Ali who brought something very new to boxing. Muhammad Ali ‘The Man Who Changed Boxing’ is available from Amazon. An ideal Christmas present for a boxing fan.
Ralph is donating his royalties to the Ringside Charitable Trust. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Muhammad-Ali-Man-Changed-Boxing
Book recommendation for Christmas
YES DEAR!
by Sara John
Do men and women have different and contrasting styles of speech? Do they understand each other? This is a topic I have given a talk about in the past.
I was invited to be the guest speaker at an event a while ago. My husband enquired how long had I been invited to speak for. I replied, “less than half an hour.”
“Hmm,” he said, “in that case will you ever get to the point in that time.”
My point is that men and women have dissimilar styles of verbal communication and suggest therefore that it is pretty amazing, on further examination of this subject, that we are able to understand each other at all!
There was a time in the far-off past, when gentlemen assumed they had the advantage in many ways when talking to women, to offer helpful advice, make suggestions, pay compliments, and be flirtatious to a degree which is positively frowned upon today, if not actually
outlawed. “Has anyone ever told you that you have the most beautiful eyes?” “Perhaps you would like to come to Jersey with me for a long weekend, my wife, you see, is an invalid.”!!! Yes! I heard that sort of remark from a man old enough to be my father!
Husbands these days spend time shouting at the man or woman on television; could be weathermen, politicians, or so-called experts; even frequently from chaps who are too young to remember the Coronation, the proper one in 1953!
Whereas we ladies used to say, - and still do sometimes in order to obtain better service: To the man in the garage, “gosh you are clever! Could I collect my car about three?”
“You are such a special butcher, you always know exactly what I want.” “You are the most talented plumber I have ever met, do you think you could just take a look at the taps in the shed, I tried to fix them myself, but my hands are not strong enough.”
I overheard a chap at an equal opportunities conference saying to the man next to him, “We are all feminists now. It is the only way to pull the chicks.”
Following a government report a few decades ago women were invited and persuaded that they should “return to work” – as if we had all been lying around eating chocolates since sweets came off ration. The demographics had suggested a future shortage of manpower. Women would, once more, be needed in the workplace.
This gave rise to identification of many workplace issues causing confusion: women were seen as a threat to the closed shop, union power was still strong: women were seen as distracting in the workplace: often women were judged by their “huggability” factor; women were sometimes accused of being reluctant to join the culture of the organization. Some women still think that “Team Spirit” is a drink, you know like Jack Daniels.
Women use phrases like “What a darling little doggie,” In contrast men are likely to use technical terms, business jargon, slang, and more robust expressions.
Most companies had annual reporting systems which relied on maintaining standards and discipline with the use of warnings, criticism, written reports, and interviews. But many women respond negatively to criticism, constructive or otherwise. Managers, including myself, eventually avoided any spoken criticism of certain members of staff as it led to chaos, tears, and recrimination.
Outside the workplace the culture was not that different.
Woman to woman: “Well, let me see now, you want the town centre? well when you see that big BOOTs on the corner you have gone a little too far, but you cannot turn around because they have made it a one way street, so you may have to start again.”
Man to man: Town centre? First left. Second right.
Woman to woman on the phone, “don’t breath a word to a living soul because Angela made me promise on Stewarts’s life that I would not say
anything to anyone. But I decided I could tell you.” It has been claimed that in Wales we think ‘confidential’ means we can tell one other person.
Chaps do not hold long conversations on the telephone. They get to the point. They stick to the point. Sometimes they repeat the point to make sure the message is understood.
The phone rings. The woman answers it. She has been on the phone for over an hour.
The man asks, “who was that on the phone?”
The woman says “Jean.”
The man says, “what did she want?”
The woman says, “I’m not sure, I’ll ring her back and find out.”
Perhaps at home this evening you may ask your husband/partner/admirer, “how did you get on this evening?”
He says, “Fine.”
He says to her, “So. How did you get on?”
She says, “I cannot begin to tell you.”
But makes an effort and does anyway.
Men’s concerns have always been more external and objective. Women’s concerns have been more personal.
Equal Opportunities law, political correctness seminars, and the odd “poke in the eye with the sharp end of a HB pencil have played their part in, subsequently changing the male level playing field into more natural undulating female parkland.
Men frequently maintain a formality with other men in work. They know each other, they may even go to the game together, but they know nothing about each other.
Returning home after an evening out with his friend, his wife asks, “How is Jean.” “Who’s Jean?” is the response. “Your best pal’s wife” is the rejoinder.
Women in the recent past crested the most powerful information gathering system to the workplace since the Spanish Inquisition. Nobody and nothing was regarded as secret/confidential/ personal so cave culture continues from Stone Age time.
I knew how to drive. But not on the roads with all that other traffic. My husband helped me with confidence and concentration instilled in me a sense of purpose as opposed to a personal sense of panic when I was a learner.
Most importantly, he taught me about left and right and how far apart they were, and how they retained their position even when you were the other way round as it were.
As a woman driver I can share three things with you in confidence: I cannot park if you are going to stand there and watch me. If I stop to ask directions, I will always ask a lady not a man. I rarely understand what men are saying when they give directions.
Men talk. Women listen. Women interrupt. Men talk on (and on) Women look as though they are listening, but they are not really. Modern young woman talks. Man interrupts. Modern woman walks away.
Speaking effectively for women means recalling and being aware of the power robbers. Power robbers affect anticipated outcomes. When many women began making their mark in the world of business, they had to learn how to shake hands. I demonstrated this on management courses that I have run including for male delegates, how to NOT kiss women in the workplace – just because they are there! A kiss on the cheek had been the accepted greeting instead of the handshake for women by men.
In social situations it has been accepted etiquette for men to shake hands with other men. Women generally nodded to each other whilst surveying, costing, and assessing all the other garments of attire, hair and makeup, age, and level of compatibility with the spouse. And smiling all at the same time.
The male of the species is considered and seen to be naturally competitive and ambitious.
The female is encouraged to be co-operative, settled and satisfied with her position. Interviews were run on distinctively male lines, with mostly males asking the questions. The men asking the questions were looking for precise, pertinent answers from the applicants.
I have frequently witnessed, at interviews that the candidate who fitted the bill and seemed to be “One of us” (or one of the boys) got the job or the promotion.
Male chairman to male applicant; “tell us about yourself.”
Male applicant: “I am currently managing the overseas trading department, I have four full time staff, and we have just increased our profits by 9.5%. Well up on this time last year.”
Men generally enjoy competition and play competitive sports.
Women generally avoid conflict because they have to – they co-operate, it makes more sense to them. It is less destructive and wasteful of resources.
Maybe these well recognized differences in speech between the genders have always been there? Early man developed his visual spatial ability hunting in groups with other males. Maybe the prey was large, dangerous, and scarce. Signals had to be passed in silence, understood and followed by the group.
I suggest that it was less likely that women out hunting (unlikely to start with) would follow the rules, stay silent, and not pass on, opinions, comments, and the latest news to the others.
Tribal survival depended on agreement about priorities, essential for the survival of the group. Women dealt with the younger ones, had a working knowledge of berries, fruits, vegetables, animals, and their parts that were safe to eat. Their mothering skills, as they developed with the offspring growing up, were useful and were likely to be available to all the relatives within that family group. Perhaps they preferred staying behind in the shelters, in the home base. It also meant they all knew where everything was.
Women do not ask where things are. There is usually no one to ask. Men always ask, “have you seen my specs?”
“You’ve got them on.”
“Where did you say the butter was kept?”
“Amazingly in the red butter dish, in the fridge”
“Where is the file with the figures for March?”
“On the top, of the right-hand side of your desk, next to the phone, where you left it.”
Men never offer explanations. Women explain. A lot. Women use euphemisms. Men say it like it is.
Women do not read maps without turning them around and have no use for Town centre maps with an arrow saying you are here. They know that!
Parking is another activity that is gender identified. Most women will drive off to find a bigger space, carefully avoiding parallel parking. (which I cannot do if you are going to watch me).
I also advise staying out of Jewson’s car park. There is a lot of help and advice awaiting you. But you need to go on the course first. Strange hand signals, whistles, odd words being mouthed silently such as, “Left hand down,” “Hold it there,” and worst of all is “keep on coming” (sounds like an article in Cosmopolitan magazine). Best to drive out again, park a little further away and get the nice man in the store to carry the tins of paint, planks of timber and the latest paint shade cards out to your car for you. Maybe a quick splash of “Youth Dew” perfume still does its magic (it always used to for me).
Women have devious/complex/creative thought patterns which lead onto devious/complex/ creative speech and activities with which we are very familiar. But that characteristic does not make them a bad person!
Men being linear in their thinking are therefore
terse, logical, and linear in their speech. Men - if, they listen to a woman speak and comment that they do not any have any idea what she was “on about.” I have noticed that men become quickly bored by female speech.
I have, in the past, threatened to run off with the first man I meet who gives me his undivided attention. I am not likely to ever find one.
Women offer more opinions in conversation often avoiding the facts. Women say, “I am sorry, but I am not apologizing.”
Men never want to hear:
“Look at me when I am talking to you” “STOP the car and I’ll ask directions” “Where are we now, on this map?”
Women never want to hear, from a man:
“I told you to phone the plumber”
“How Much did it cost?”
“Look it is very simple, how many times?”
We all much prefer to hear:
“Darling dinner is ready.”
“You are wonderful.”
“I have bought you a little present.”
“Do not worry. I will come and meet you.”
Above all when making a request of the other the answer both genders love to hear is, “Yes Dear!”
Christmas in Cardiff: A Guide to Magical, Budget-Friendly Christmas Experiences
by Sean Killen
As Christmas approaches, Cardiff lights up with a host of joyful events and activities perfect for the whole family. Whether you’re looking to entertain the kids or simply soak in the holiday atmosphere, there’s something special waiting around every corner. In this guide, we’ll explore the best free and budget-friendly Christmas experiences in Cardiff.
Mrs Claus’ Kitchen, Location: Unit 13, between Pavers and Fabulous Welsh cakes (Every Saturday from Nov 30 - Dec 31)
Mermaid Quay is set to welcome families for a heartwarming festive experience as Mrs Claus’ Kitchen opens its doors this Christmas season. Running on selected weekends, this enchanting event promises a memorable day out filled with stories, games, and creative activities.
Upon arrival, families will be greeted by cheerful Elves who will guide them into the cozy, festive space. Children can settle in on soft cushions as Mrs Claus herself shares enchanting Christmas tales. Storytime will be filled with interactive fun, including a round
of musical statues led by the Cheeky Elves, ensuring smiles and laughter for everyone.
After the stories, children will have the chance to decorate their own gingerbread biscuit, adding a personal touch to a festive treat. They can also write letters to Santa, capturing their Christmas wishes before leaving with a special candy cane gift as a keepsake.
There’s no need to pre-book, but spaces for each session are limited to ensure an intimate and magical experience for all. Families are encouraged to arrive early to secure their spot.
The Light of Winter Trail
Brought to life by FOR Cardiff, this immersive trail will guide visitors through the heart of the city, featuring 11 stunning installations that combine art, history, and festive spirit in the following locations:
1.Cardiff Aurora (Cardiff Central)
2.Wyndham Arcade
3.Royal Arcade
4.Morgan Arcade
5.High Street Arcade
6.Castle Arcade
7.Blitzen (Castle Moat)
8.Dominions Arcade
9.Illuminated Reeds Symphony
10.Cardiff Kids Xmas Lights
11.Do You Believe? (St David’s Dewi Sant)
With free activities for all ages, visitors can marvel at dazzling projections, explore the beautifully lit arcades, and interact with installations like the Illuminated Reeds Symphony. Whether it’s storytelling through light or festive adventures, this trail promises a memorable holiday experience for families and friends alike.
Winter Wonderland (Open till January 5)
No Cardiff Christmas experience would be complete without a visit to Winter Wonderland, the city’s flagship festive attraction. Located across two key sites - City Hall Lawn and Cardiff Castle - this magical event is packed with activities for all ages.
Visitors can enjoy the thrill of the Ice Rink and Ice Walk, perfect for skating under the twinkling lights, while the Observation Wheel offers panoramic views of Cardiff’s festive skyline. For those seeking a festive treat, the Ice Bar provides cozy spaces to warm up with mulled wine and hot chocolate.
Families can also explore the traditional fairground rides, including funfair games that add to the holiday excitement.
With food stalls offering everything from classic bratwurst to sweet churros, Winter Wonderland is not just a visual feast but a culinary delight too if you have the budget for it.
Cardiff Christmas Market (Open till December 23)
The Cardiff Christmas Market is a beloved highlight of the city’s festive celebrations, bringing a vibrant mix of shopping, food, and entertainment to the heart of the capital. Running till December 23, the market stretches across St John Street, Working Street, the Hayes, and Hills Street, creating a lively festive atmosphere for all to enjoy.
With over 80 local and independent stalls, the market is the perfect place to find unique, handcrafted gifts. From Welsh-made crafts, jewellery, and homewares to seasonal decorations and bespoke artwork, visitors can browse a wide variety of treasures while supporting local artisans.
Food lovers will be spoiled for choice with a delicious selection of festive treats, including mulled wine, hot chocolate, mince pies, and street food from around the world. The market also features pop-up bars and cozy seating areas where visitors can relax and savour the holiday spirit.
Adding to the charm, the market often features live music and performances, creating a warm and cheerful ambiance. Even if you’re on the hunt for Christmas gifts or simply looking to soak up the festive atmosphere, the Cardiff Christmas Market is an essential stop this holiday season.
Experience quality dementia care, led by experts
At Care UK’s Llys Cyncoed care home in Cyncoed, our team is passionate about supporting your loved one to maintain independence and make choices, whilst receiving the very best dementia care in a place they can call home.
Care you can trust
We work with academic partners and respected leaders in the field, to ensure we stay up to date with the latest approaches to dementia care. We have worked closely with the Association of Dementia Studies to create bespoke programmes of dementia training. Whilst Dr Nori Graham - a renowned dementia expert and Vice President of Alzheimer’s International –supports the development of our dementia strategy with Suzanne Mumford, a Queen’s Nurse and Head of Nursing, Care and Dementia at Care UK.
Living well with dementia
Our dedicated team will work with you and your loved one to deliver a care and lifestyle plan entirely tailored to their unique needs and preferences and our busy activities schedule is always packed with meaningful activities that support them to live life to the full.
Recently residents have enjoyed our weekly balloon tennis exercise and their new favourite game “Word In A Word” and of course Scrabble.
Purpose-built facilities
At our purpose-built home, everything from colour schemes, signage, and furniture to the design of our crockery, has been carefully chosen to support residents living with dementia to be as independent as possible.
Quality of care
Llys Cyncoed have recently being given an Excellent silent rating from their most recent CIW inspection because of their high quality care.
Llys Cyncoed care home in Cyncoed is part of Care UK, the country’s most awarded large care provider. We’ve been delivering high-quality, person-centred care for over 40 years. That’s why over
8,000 families trust us to care for their older loved ones.
To find out more about Llys Cyncoed, call 029 2000 2706 or scan the QR code.
Llys Cyncoed 127 Cyncoed Road Cyncoed Cardiff Glamorgan CF23 6AF careuk.com/llys-cyncoed
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THE PUMPING STATION
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.
Monday to Sunday 10:00am - 5:00pm Penarth Road, Cardiff, South Glamorgan, CF11 8TT
£12 £12
* Broken Glass
* Replacement
* Misted Glass
* Replacements
* Faulty/Broken Hinges
* Locks, Handles
* Pa�o Door Problems
* Draughty/Leaking
* Windows, Doors
* Conservatories
* Ca�laps, Le�erboxes
* New Door Panels
Stained Glass Repairs and Replacements * Glass/mirrors of all types cut to size * uPVC New Windows/ Doors Installed
* Upgrades to Locks and Handles
* Fascias, Gu�ering, Clading * Coloured Composite Doors
“Brims with an irresistible festive charm” THE GUARDIAN
A Sherman Theatre production Cynhyrchiad Theatr y Sherman
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
22 Nov / Tach 2024 – 4 Jan / Ion 2025 By / Gan Gary Owen
Directed by / Cyfarwyddwyd gan Joe Murphy
The Christmas show with a big, big heart is back Mae’r sioe Nadolig gyda chalon fawr yn ôl
Ewch ati i ddysgu rhagor, cyflawni eich dyheadau, rhoi hwb i'ch CV a gwneud ffrindiau newydd y gwanwyn hwn.
Rydyn ni hefyd yn cynnig Llwybrau at radd ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd.
Does dim angen cymwysterau blaenorol arnoch chi i astudio'r rhan fwyaf o'n cyrsiau.
www.caerdydd.ac.uk/dysgu
ffôn: 029 2087 0000
Improve your knowledge, achieve your ambitions, boost your CV and make new friends this spring.
We also provide Pathways to a degree at Cardiff University.
You don't need previous qualifications to study most of our courses.
www.cardiff.ac.uk/learn tel: 029 2087 0000