Cardiff Times June 2021

JUNE 2021

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CARDIFF TIMES

PUBLISHER Cardiff Times

EDITOR Louise Denning 07903 947594 FEATURES EDITOR Mark Denning 07758 247194

EDITORS LETTER

Welcome Hi All, and welcome to our June issue.

We knew it was too good to last...the weather that is! After a dry but cold April, last month it seemed to rain constantly, especially on the days our daughter was meant to play cricket!

May saw us celebrate a very special birthday, our son becoming a teenager - where has the time gone! We were fortunate enough to be able to celebrate the day with some of the family, which made it extra special, and we were able to eat out in a restaurant for the first time in what seemed like a very long time.

SALES & MARKETING Beth beth@cardiff-times.co.uk

In a sign of the times we are currently living in, our daughter’s school sports day was streamed live on YouTube as understandably no spectators were allowed to attend. A great idea from the school and an example of how innovative schools have had to become over the last year or so.

CONTRIBUTORS Wyn Evans, Vince Nolan, Sara John, Michael James, Molly Dutton, Carl Marsh, Jen Abell, Michael Fogg, Kellie Williams, Natalie McCulloch, Ralph Oates

This month, as well as our usual high quality contributors, we have an article from a new contributor, Ralph Oates. If there are any boxing fans who read the magazine then you are in for a treat, as this article chronicles the professional career of Merthyr Tydfil’s very own Howard Winstone, who became World Featherweight Champion in 1968. A remarkable story about a remarkable man, one of Wales’ finest ever sportsmen, and well worth a read.

With the Covid vaccination continuing to be rolled out so effectively in Wales, further restrictions will hopefully be eased this month, and we can at long last look forward optimistically to returning to some kind of normality.

Please continue to stay safe everyone, and until next month, happy reading.

EDITORIAL 029 2046 3028 ADVERTISING 07903 947594 EMAIL info@cardiff-times.co.uk WEB www.cardiff-times.co.uk

Louise & Mark

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4 44 CARDIFF TIMES

June CONTENTS

6 Once upon a time…

by Wyn Evans 10 Non-allergic-rhinitis

by Vince Nolan 13 ABC of Opera announce the launch of ‘Any Body Can’ 14 In the Words Of

by Carl Marsh 17 Kings Monkton School 18 Winstone the Welsh Wizard

by Ralph Oates 21 A Question of Boxing – a quiz book which will test even the keenest fan 24 Winser London reveal collaboration with Cat Deeley 28 Pre-Pandemic Sweets, Post Pandemic Thinking

by Jen Abell 31 Why Learning Music is Good for Children 33 Local Armed Forces Charity 37 Lab22 Launch New Menu 38 Win a custom landscape-based painting worth £400 in support of The Survivors Trust charity

by Kellie Williams 42 Let there be books

by Sara John 48 Protect your Wealth

by Michael Fogg 52 A Reminder That Help and Hope is All Around Us

by Michael James 56 Raising Awareness for Finns Foundation

by Natalie McCulloch 61 Military charity Building Heroes starts-up property maintenance firm in Cardiff

Once upon a time...

by Wyn Evans

My daughter, The Girl, is fifteen years old and loves a good story. When she was in primary school we would anticipate the arrival of inset days and holidays with ever-increasing excitement. I would allow the Girl a lie-in, perhaps for no more than an hour beyond her usual term-time alarm call but this was enough.

She would run from her bedroom and into mine and The Boss’s room, jump under the duvet, and demand “it’s time for a story”! Back then, she didn’t want stories from a book, she was much more interested in creating our own tales of derring-do. It was important to her that both our dogs featured, that The Boss and I were at some degree of risk and that we be saved by our Girl with the dogs’ assistance. There was often a super-power involved, one which had lain dormant in real life. These did not have to be SUPER super-powers – while she was not averse to an ability to fly or demonstrate mega-strength, she was also quite content if the super ability was more homespun. I recall her being delighted when one story involved our hero being able to sharpen pencils - without a pencil sharpener!

6 CARDIFF TIMES

The story had to begin with ‘once upon a time’. Thus, “once upon a time in a large house by the park lived a family of a dad, a mum, a princess, and their two dogs, Kira and Meggie. One evening, they were sitting in their big, bright front room when they heard a squeaking from the corner behind the sofa. The bold princess went to see what was happening and found a mouse-hole that was getting bigger and bigger. Bravely, the princess stepped through the hole and entered a world where things were similar to our real world, but different...”. Then the story would go in whatever direction we fancied, ending only when the characters survived mortal peril, and escaped back through the mouse-hole, which closed behind them, “...the end”.

I’m sure we have all read about how JK Rowling invented the Harry Potter universe as a bed-time tale she made up for her kids and that it was only subsequently that she turned the characters and plots into the literary equivalent of a cash machine. More even than I am in awe of JKR’s net worth, I remain astonished by the fecundity of her imagination.

She was surely only able to monetise her creations because the plotlines and characters caught kids’ imaginations and developed a life all of their own; each child identifying with something or someone of her creations; and all against the background eschatology of a Manichaean struggle between good and evil, right and wrong, life and death. Given that the best I could come up with was the Super Pencil Sharpener Man, I think some degree of respect is the very least I can offer Ms Rowling.

Gradually, these story mornings on inset days and holidays morphed into story evenings: The

Boss and The Girl reading a story every night before bed. Books The Girl returns to again and again are the three ‘Rebel Girls’ titles: “goodnight stories for rebel girls”, “goodnight stories for rebel girls 2”, and “100 immigrant women who changed the world”. If these are new to you a few reviews will give you a good feel for them. “[This] reinvents fairy tales, inspiring children with the stories of 100 heroic women from Elizabeth I to Serena Williams, illustrated by 60 female artists from every corner of the globe”, “the anti-princess picture book you and little girls need”, “the feminist bedtime story book you’ll wish you had growing up”, “these bedtime stories trade princesses for women who changed the world”.

Not only are these books inspirational in and of themselves we’ve found that we can relate them to contemporary events happening around us. Discussions with The Girl that have followed on from reading about some of these women have included: Black Lives Matter and the death of George Floyd; why there are so many abortions of foetuses carrying an extra copy of chromosome 21 (i.e. those with Down Syndrome, like my daughter); and what elections are for and how women gained the right to vote. In fact, this led to one of the better exchanges between The Boss and The Girl.

The character under discussion that night was New Zealander, Kate Sheppard, Suffragette, who “stood up and declared, ‘women should be allowed to vote. And they should stop wearing corsets’”. “Kate and her friends gathered so many signatures on their petition that they had to paste sheets of paper together to form a long roll. They carried it into parliament and unrolled it on the floor, like a really long carpet. Imagine seventy-four ice cream trucks parked in a line it was even longer than that! It was the longest petition ever presented. The legislators were speechless. Thanks to Kate, New Zealand became the first country in the world where women gained the right to vote.”

They read about Kate Sheppard on the eve of the May local election polling earlier this year, after which The Girl asked The Boss to tell her some more about politics, politicians and elections. Aware of her responsibility to foster

in our daughter a sense of citizenship and keen to avoid any overt cynicism The Boss set to with clarity and vigour. The Girl was silent for a while then ventured her opinion that: “you should be a politician mum”.

The Boss: “No way could I be a politician”.

The Girl: “Why not?”

The Boss: “They never give clear answers to questions they are asked. Here, try some role play. You ask me a question and I’ll give a politician’s answer.”

The Girl (channelling John Humphrys): “What new car are you going to get?”

The Boss (channelling David Cameron): “I didn’t break any rules.”

The Girl (channelling Jeremy Paxman, louder this time): “What new car are you going to get?”

The Boss (channelling Boris): “It’s none of your business how many children I have!”

The Girl (channelling Laura Kuenssberg, very loudly this time): “What new car are you going to get?”

The Boss (channelling Theresa May): “Brexit means Brexit.”

The girl collapses into a fit of laughter. The Boss joins her.

“The End!”

CARDIFF TIMES 7

Walk for Parkinson's Cardiff Saturday 25 September 2021 Every step connects everyone with Parkinson’s.

By walking together, we’re not alone.

events.parkinsons.org.uk/walkcardiff or 0800 138 6593 Parkinson’s UK is the operating name of the Parkinson’s Disease Society of the United Kingdom.

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“And another thing...”

Non-allergic-rhinitis

ByVince Nolan

A snappy title, I think you will agree.

In previous scribblings I penned the immortal line: “Spring will have sprung when your nose don’t run.”

Having whetted your appetites with that I have now composed a whole first stanza: “Spring will have sprung when your nose don’t run and your teeth stop chattering too.

When you don’t need your vest to fly the nest and the grey skies have turned blue.”

I typed the first line of this into a search engine in case I had unknowingly plagiarised somebody else’s work. It came back with “Non-allergic-rhinitis,” hence the title.

To tell the truth, my nose does run in Spring but that’s hay fever for you.

I was at my tonsorial teasers recently, having a first professional haircut in many months, when my stylist (get me) told me a story about one of her clients. Apparently this guy was around 80 years of age and had refused all attempts to have himself vaccinated. He claimed that this was because he remembered the horrendous Thalidomide scandal of the late 50’s, early 60’s and did not want to pass on anything to the next generation that had not been medically proven to be safe. Bearing this in mind, my stylist asked him, at the top of her voice, if this meant that he was still sexually active and whether he had a partner of child-bearing age. Not sure of his answers but we seem to have come a long way since being asked if we had booked our holidays yet.

Staying with relationships, our local church holds regular husband’s marriage wellbeing meetings.

10 CARDIFF TIMES

At the last session, the priest asked Giuseppe, who was approaching his 50th wedding anniversary, to take a few minutes and share some insight into how he had managed to stay married to the same woman all these years. Giuseppe replied to the assembled husbands: “Well, I’ve tried to treat her nice, spend the money on her, but best of all is, I took her to Italy for the 25th anniversary!” The priest responded: “Giuseppe, you are an amazing inspiration to all the husbands here! Please tell us what you are planning for your wife for your 50th anniversary?” Giuseppe proudly replied: “I’m gonna go pick her up.”

I was reading the other day about Cyberchondria which is online hypochondria. We have all done it, just to obtain a Google diagnosis (other search engines are available). I haven’t seen a Doctor for over a year because there are too many genuinely ill people in the queue ahead of me so I have had no other choice. Anyway, I woke up this morning

Saw this on a poster the other day from Choose Love who nobly sell essential items to support refugees. “If you have more than you need, build a longer table, not of hysterical laughter from the rest of us and quite feeling all peaceful and calm so I Googled my a higher wall.” symptoms. Now I am convinced I might be dead.

a bit of yelping and haemorrhaging on his part.

One of the most unusual pre-match warm-ups I g with Irish drink, I bought four cans of Guinness Of course, at Hypochondriacs Anonymous the Talking of have walls,ever I have no wishwith to mention the former witnessed Dazza looking like some her day, purely for medicinal purposes you first step is admitting you don’t have a problem.

US President ever again but, indoing his defence, he highland demented Scotsman an unorthodox stand. I was indoctor the process oftoremoving the My refusesis my we diagnosis social conservatory sopost big that couldn’ton pinpoint and we wereshouting on the ferry. came nowhere near to holding the fling whilst obscenities and bleeding ties holding them together media...he says my disease is it but because it sounded likeuntweetable... our next door There was no inspection in France asoff heavily.

Can’tCustoms see record Alun Wyn cutting Presidential for Jones issuing pardons. andholding Ineighbour have justwas found out I am colour The he can I was messing about in hisblind. garden.

A few forwarts we had already been inspected and we were offknow. tothree before taking the field, but you never the first time theyears other of day unique In the early theand US,the some acts diagnosis came out of the mauve. ed in my hand.

A loud bang hours later a completely sparrow introduced itself to us which word Paris.

We repeated the people smuggling exercise location I was looking for was “You Are Lost!” of treason, piracytimes and rebellion were Fast to current andhave I have just was wearing themust contents on theforward way back.

Quite what would happened have flown whenIthe patio doorsrugby, were my Design fault or user error?

Many light years agoinwhen was playing forgiven.

My favourite involved a man finished reading a very entertaining written if Customs had found Colonel Gaddafi book stowing Being man, the hunter, I used mydressing instinctive travelled up theopen. ceiling, mate Dazza usually sat next to me in the Talking of intolerance, I am led to believe that the called George Wilson who was jointly by Jeremy Vine which catalogues some of the away on a St. Peter’s Rugby Club bus is anybody’s and trapping skills andbecause picked the the floor, over the worktop roomtracking before a match.

This was helittle andguy term heckler originated fromtomail the textile trade, where hysterical stories listeners his radio programme convicted of stealing at gunpoint guess but it would certainly have caused a major up never and him back into team the wild. harm I could takeinthe pre-match talkNovery nto the desk.

Note thereleased can tohave heckle was to tease or comb-out phoned with. “Michael” alsoflax hadora hemp and incident. wasinsentenced to death by diplomatic done………………..well, untilstrong next door’s cat got mal seriously.

Some players need words of Yard) to ensure that we had properly warmed up since we didn’t wantmodern to pull anymeaning drinking ture has not been opened fibres.

The wasTrips coined in Dundee troublesome wart on his finger.

Doctor Just tohanging. beten clear: Didrefused youorhear about the to urologist him. pardon in the 1833 muscles.

Unfortunately, six ofToday us turned up and ainminimum of wereHe required the a encouragement.

We preferred only quiet. you the not early 19th century.

As the hecklers toiled in conventional way) andvisit still had helped.

He decided one evening to was off.

I engaged four old-timers who were in the bar (could have been the who was eaten by a bear?

He was a meteorologist hunting, if Izone” were illegally hunting for from President Andrew Jackson andthe days’ mightStaying say wewith were “in the but in truth, we the factory, one of the team would read out aforementioned ones from the Taff Vale) and asked them whether it they fancied having a e widget inside.mushrooms, It could remove himself. that this would hurt a (meaty urologist, oh Knowing please yourselves). would I have questionable morels? and others would buttSupreme in with constant were thinkingbrewery about a post-match pint three after was executed after Court tour and free beer for theor afternoon.

Fearingnews some kind of the honey trap, they took the tad he got quite drunk, took his gun, been quite nastyAlso, given how The Leader of the Opposition and I wereaimed sittingvery in With what do you call a deer who has lost both some convincing that my offer was genuine.

Cautiously, they agreed tohe join could us.

Picture theit interruptions and a stream of “furious debate.” we had thrashed the latest opposition.

The biggest ruled turn down if he wanted ld. carefully at distanced the and blew his finger clean scene, 5pm on awart sunny the tin was.issue By eyes awe spooky our socially local, The Funky Furlough, in a hunting accident?

No eye deer. this in mind I have collated some quality put-downs had was that both of us used to start to.

No pleasing some folk. weekday evening at the side had How long have “I don’t off. worse for “Michael.”

Neighbours called whenItcomics agot lady close byused toyou usto askedarthritis?” the Barmodern Manager I have decided that when Trump dies, give dence, Guinness was which have with day giggling and the slightest thing would setI will us off. entrance to the Brewery on deal ned have arthritis, Father,” the drunk said, “but I the police because of the gunshot.

He was then if the toilets were still upstairs.

He of course his eulogy.

I will say: “He is today how he was as hecklers: Caroline Street where four ed which was exactly the time itthat triedwe tosort Yard)(in to aensure had of properly upjust since we didn’t want to pull any drinking was infectious non-disease way) warmed s, in 1759 This read in the paper that the Pope does.”

Continuingarrested for having an unlicensed firearm pensioners who could barely confiup rmed that they were I were thought this to and be a President……….wearing make-up and lying muscles.

Unfortunately, only sixinoffront us turned and aof minimum ofbut ten required or the e nearer toand myin maker.

I drank thethe other three tify the end, most of team would be corpsed “What size shoe does your mouth take?” stand were seen hanging onto ammunition.

He was subsequently fined and now Staying with(could the drink, there has always the rope very stupid question.

I would have said something of us.

Amen.”

Ricky Tomlinson visit was off.

I engaged four old-timers who were in the bar have been the edhealth and much to the chagrin of our Captain. Anyway, this or safety reasons. a lamppost, for support, rather been much attached toknow wine. has than a is great deal ofsnobbery difficulty when buying gloves. like: “I don’t I was recently asked by the son of from a good theme: “This what comes drinking on an empty aforementioned ones thefriend Taff Vale) and asked them whether they fancied having a illumination.

An from one particular Saturday, Dazza was complaining I know I have written about sell-buy dates before Indeed, people make a living from it, afternoon they would when madam was of mine if I would write a urology for his Dad’s head.” brewery tourNow and free beer forbloke the afternoon.

Fearing some kind myself of honey trap, theybut took Soap on Not wishing to involve in politics the about a wart on his finger. he is a big but I am making a stand because of the but a recent trip to are mysome local on offer aeulogy Friday discovered thatfuneral. there only 3supermarket shops I that really never…… remember. us but wethe I didn’t have the heart to say convincing my was genuine.

Cautiously, they agreed tolast joinwith us.the Picture a rope recent Conservative candidate for Cardiff North so I told him to go to the Doctors or man-up.

He lockdowns.

I’m giving up wine, everyhanding day, all “I know where CEO you were when they were almost no perishables would the Irevealed recently had aSpecsavers, great withthat Mark Daceymake (on the dynamic of during lockdown: Boots and scene, on a them sunnyout to moved but I knewZoom whatcall he meant.

Anyway, here is leS) who is the er A drunk whowas smelled likeWilliams, a 5pm constituency Joel pictured here.

I took the latter option and went to the first aid kit, Pope on a month.

No wait, that’s not it.

I’m giving up. the brains out………getting an extra helping of following Monday.

In fact I had some doubt whether Neath Talbot Group of Colleges.

It does not need me to suggest the uncanny s. My life Port is just specs and drugs and sausage weekday evening at the side brewery got on a bus and sat ed the car park many what I wrote: Wine every dayThe all appeared month! havedown since out he on Big Brother. removed theittoscissors and cut wart off to gales mouth.” they would make toactor the Ricky car for thethe journey home. rope nextfound to a priest. he favourite has Tomlinson or of vice versa. entrance months to the Brewery y resemblance don’t know about you, but I have had ago as aon My Mike tale, (heenough was affectionately More like little brother if you ask What is going on because it’s nothing to do with EU drunk's shirt was stained, his Two people out on a first date.

“Do youme. no Caroline Street where four you know, youred wore direct soundproof trousers consequence as Gaddafi because his likeness ckdown malarkey.

We don’t have to home school face was full of if bright Isupply know I issues? haveknown wriKen about sell-buy dates before but a recent trip“Do to my local supermarket Closer inspection of of the packaging They say when policemen are getting likeof Merlot Tammy?”

“Yes, but youPerhaps don’t pensioners could barely once owned one the chewed pencils which one would hear word saying.” lipstick and he a had a half-you’re of who Covid19.” to the former Libyan leader), involved a tripImake thing like thatcountries but when highlight of the on a Friday revealed almost no perishables that the following Monday.

In fact I revealed ofthe origin for fruit and vegwould like younger you are getting older but pronounce the “t.”

“Oh, Ok.” Looks at stand were seen hanging onto empty of wine sticking usedbottle to write his famous works. used this is why I He do not run to Paris to watch Wales play France.

WecarShakespeare Tanzania and Argentina.

So these comestibles some doubt whether they would make it to the for the home.

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

It takes anfor inordinate amount of skill to supply goods “ju washad taking the car for an MOT then it’s serious, real face or are you still celebrating politicians? out ofyour his pocket.

He opened waiter: “Two mesupport, and Ammy.” aMerlots lamppost, for rather to chew on it so much that I couldn’t tell whether it was a pub. had developed a 20 year relationship with withhis 24 hours to spare.

Waste levels must be astronomical. and started are cultivated in exotic picked, because it’swent nothing toaclimes, do with supply issues?

Closer in-@me” inspec@on ofnewspaper the packaging ularlyon as we both along for theEU excitement. and minimum of tenpackaged, were required or Halloween?” than illumination.

Andog Our friend Drthe Hwith has trained her Staying politics, She WhoDaisy Must reading.

A couple of minutes later, he asked theorpriest, "Father, what causes arthritis?"

A in wife sent her French side and played themaround home and not 2B. Staying with Bard, days taken tocountries thea port orthe airport, distributed UK2B revealed of origin for fruit and veg like Tanzania and Argen@na.

So these Staying with food, I have been doing some research into gone what is by, no longer manufactured in visit was off.

I engaged four old-timers afternoon they would "Mister, it's caused by loose living, being with cheap, wicked women, too much alcohol, and to bring her a bottle of red wine.

No surprise “Your bus leaves in 10 minutes...

Be under it.”

Be Obeyed and I were walking husband aquote romantic away ondelivered French international weekends.

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Who Must Be Obeyed suggested I download a new

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the university and in schools to develop these resources, creating opportunities for children to engage with all aspects of the Curriculum for Wales as they learn about opera and the amazing characters which populate its history.”

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The ABC of Opera is proud to be supported by the University of Wales Trinity St David, and the Dean, Dylan Jones said: “The new teachers pack means thousands of more children can experience the joy of the ABC of Opera. The team has worked with educators at CARDIFF TIMES 13

In the Words Of

by Carl Marsh

Books Holding Her Breath by Eimear Ryan - Sandycove 12th June 2021 - £12.99

It’s the halfway point of the year, and isn’t life still a challenge, but thankfully, bars and the like have now opened and not just outdoors! So do support them, please do.

As most of you will know, I had to take an Asda delivery job during Lockdown, but last week I stopped my shifts, going on a seasonal role (if needed), just in case things go back to where they were. I cannot thank Asda enough and all the staff I have met and will keep friends with. In times of need, Asda really did help me out. Thank you!

I am now back to doing my swimming lessons, and to say I have had about 80 enquiries without advertising, well, I am not kidding! All fitness is vital, but swimming is a life skill. So if you can’t get in with me, do try and sort with your local swim schools for your children’s sake. www.swimheroes. co.uk Anyways, back to entertainment!

TV/Films Brabham - Blu-ray, DVD & Digital from 14th June I enjoy anything to do with the motor industry, and this film has so many famous faces from the world of Formula One to talk about the life of Jack Brabham. It’s a documentary film, a bit like the “Senna” movie. Sir Jack Brabham is always called ‘the forgotten godfather of modern Formula One racing’, but he’s forgotten no more thanks to this film. Any fan of this sport or anything that moves on wheels (basically) will get sucked into watching this.

14 CARDIFF TIMES

Compared to Sally Rooney, Naoise Dolan and Anna Hope, that will be a done deal for most book readers. This book is about a girl who is ‘shadowed by the ghost of her potential as a competitive swimmer’ - and you all know I like swimming stuff!

Yet, it’s not just a swimming adoration book. It’s a book about complicated love stories and a young female growing up in this world dealing with both that ambition and the elements of grief, and all the time when she starts university. A talented author to watch is this Eimear Ryan.

Interviews I had planned on two interviews for you this month, but one with Dr Hilary Jones, and yes, he is the guy on our TV screens on a certain channel in the mornings. For some reason, it did not happen; perhaps my sent over questions were a bit too post-watershed, who knows. Or he might have gone on holiday. I will keep chasing that one. My interview for you this month is with a writer who uses the pseudonym “Monica Lavers”. The reason being is that she worked in Hereford, at the SAS base. She has a book out called: Geezers. It’s not all gung-ho; it’s quite a personal experience of somebody who spent a few years there working hard but getting to know many of the characters.

Please read the interview, and then hopefully read the book. I rate the book FIVE STARS, as it kept me up reading to 1 am most nights!

That is all!

I will see you next month; enjoy your June!

Viva la Book!

Twitter - @InTheWordsOf_CM Facebook - @InTheWordsOf YouTube - InTheWordsOf

Carl Marsh: What gave you the drive to seek out a job in the Civil Service wing of the SAS? Monica Lavers: I didn’t necessarily want or seek out that sort of thing. And in fact, what spurred me on to do it was that I was very happy at the stage I was in in my life after 2012 when I bought my house here in Hereford. I’ve done a lot of voluntary work in my life, as I like doing that as you don’t have to worry too much if you can’t do it on a particular day, as it’s voluntary. But on the whole, I was brought up that way in that you have to be useful. You can’t sit around if you haven’t got any work; you cannot just go to the gym or be buying clothes. You have to be useful, and I believe that.

Carl Marsh: And this drive in you not being workshy

must have driven you crazy not being able to do something?

Monica Lavers: I was also a blood donor. And I noticed that all the nurses were clearing up after the teas and coffees. So I said, you know: “I could do this. I could do this wherever you are. I could travel around and do all your teas and coffees. You nurses should be taking blood”. They said that sounds great.

I then wrote to “this person”, then tried to ring someone, but I never heard back. And you know what? And truly Carl, in all of my life where I failed in things or not whatever.

I never felt such rejection as I did when I could give my services for nothing. I was so upset. It upset me dreadfully. And then, after a month, I saw this thing come up.

And I thought, well, I’m going to give it a try. I didn’t know it was SAS. That’s entirely true.

Carl Marsh: It sounds like that job offer came at the right time for you to apply to be working at the SAS Headquarters?

Monica Lavers: I went to the interview, and the guy (interviewing) said, “everyone’s worked here in our kitchen for years and years CARDIFF TIMES 15

and years, (yet) now three are retiring at once! And we’re desperate”. And they’re retiring, not because of all old age, but they were broken. Their backs needed treatment! And, it’s when he said, “we were desperate”. And to me, somebody saying ‘they’re desperate’ means I’ve got to step in. If they’d said there’s ‘no pay’, I would have done it. I didn’t like to think that they were desperate. So that’s how I got the job in the kitchen. It was more that I stumbled into it. I was not looking for a job. And I wasn’t looking for anything. But I knew that my (day-to-day) life could not go on as it was.

Carl Marsh: In the book, do you know that I can relate to everything you talk about - apart from the location. The stores, the cookhouse, the way people are in the military, the whole lot.

You’ve done a grand job of allowing me to reminisce!

Monica Lavers: I have a lot in my mind about how it worked there, the military way of doing things. And if I may digress to give you an example, somebody, he doesn’t appear in the book, but he’s become a great friend of mine. And he was very senior with students. But a few months ago, he kind of walked out, and he gave them his notice. I asked him: “What’s happened to you?” and he said, “I’m not coming back, I’m not doing ‘this and that!’”

He is this very senior guy, but he just said he’d outlived that place, and it’s true. So, anyway, I said, “What are your plans now?” as he flies for them. He said, “I went for a job with the police”. It was something to do with aircraft as a pilot. He’d been in the Air Corps before. Then he joined the SAS, then, this, that and the other. And they started asking him questions, and he said, “Well, it’s all down there on paper, you can 16 CARDIFF TIMES

see what my qualifications are!” “They then said they didn’t want me”. So we talked a bit more; I said, “You know that when people interview you, they do not just see what qualifications you’ve got; they want to know if this person will be a nice person to see every day”. I then said something like, “Is he going to walk in, and we think, ‘Oh, my God, are we going to start a meeting, and he is going to argue?’”. Honestly, with (name withheld), with you, I told him, “you’re going to argue about everything”.

Yeah. So I said to him, that’s what you want to work on. And that’s what the SAS does not get, not any of them. They don’t know how to be outside of the military, none of them!

Carl Marsh

Kings Monkton School

Kings Monkton School is a co-educa�onal independent school for 3–18-year-olds in the heart of Cardiff. We recognise the difficult �me children and families have had during the pandemic and the concerns of parents over the learning gap many children from other schools are now facing.

At Kings Monkton School our innova�ve and personalised curriculum is live streamed from our classrooms so that all children can access their lessons and fully partake in class, even when at home. This has meant that our full curriculum has been delivered, individual learning pathways maintained, and one-on-one wellbeing support given to all our pupils, even during lockdown. Our pupils do not have gaps in their learning.

Our class sizes, capped at 18, means that our experienced teachers can really know and understand your children, their needs, and their strengths, allowing them to be the best they can be. We do not believe in entrance examina�ons, as our philosophy is that all children can learn and excel if they have the right care, a�en�on, and guidance. If a child has difficulty learning, then we change the way we teach as we are the professionals who are here to get the best from your children.

This year we have fully embraced and sympathe�cally supported our pupils through their GCSEs and A levels, understanding the challenge they are all facing. We achieve some of the best results in Wales.

We also genuinely care, and the wellbeing of your children is our primary focus, whether it is reconnec�ng with nature through our biodiversity and sustainability projects; managing stress and anxiety through our yoga classes and peer mentoring scheme; or achieving their dreams through outstanding teaching and wide range of extracurricular ac�vi�es.

We li� our children up and remove the barriers so they can excel.

Kings Monkton School is a family of pupils, staff, families, and friends, that is embedded in our community, and being so is incredibly important to all of us during these difficult �mes. As a family we support and care for each other, and by joining Kings Monkton School your whole family will become part of this thriving community – whether this is joining us for our outdoor produc�on of High School Musical in Bute Park in July, helping build our city garden, a�ending our annual charity walk and picnic, suppor�ng this year’s A Dog’s Trail across the city, or for more formal ceremonies such as our Presenta�on Evening.

What makes us different is our investment in your child’s future and we are commi�ed to providing the best possible holis�c learning experience; lead by our Principal, Paul Norton, our school is a posi�ve place to learn and work. Your child will leave our school as well rounded, successful, and resilient life-long learner. By inves�ng in your child’s future, they will thrive in our happy and caring family.

Call Admissions to come and meet us and have a look around or book a taster day for your child to come and spend �me in our school.

Join our Happy family!

Kings Monkton School, 6 West Grove, Cardiff, CF24 3XL Phone: 02920 482 854 admissions@kingsmonkton.org.uk CARDIFF TIMES 17

Winstone the Welsh Wizard

By Ralph Oates

There is no doubt that Howard Winstone ranks with the very best of the post war boxers produced in the UK. During his career he won the WBC world, European and British featherweight titles.

A remarkable achievement by any stretch of the imagination, even more so when you consider that Winstone had lost the tips of three of his fingers on his right hand in an accident at work.

This injury would have been a bad setback and an obvious game changer for anyone no matter what profession they were in and surely you would think more so for a young promising boxer. A lesser man would have given up on the sport and walked away. However, Winstone did not give up and now not being able to rely on his right hand developed his left jab making it one of the finest weapons in the game.

Howard was born on the 15th of April 1939 in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales and had a successful amateur career which saw him capture both the Amateur Boxing Associations bantamweight crown and the Empire (now Commonwealth games) gold medal in 1958. Winstone eventually turned his sights to the professional ranks with fellow Welshman Eddie Thomas a former British, European and Empire welterweight title holder becoming his manager.

Howard had his first professional bout on the 24th of February 1959 at Wembley Stadium in London a contest he won on points over six rounds against Billy Graydon. It was evident from the performance that Winstone was a boxer with a big future ahead of him. That same year the Welsh Wizard kept busy having a further nine bouts winning them all in impressive style.

The British crown was soon in Winstone’s sights. A championship held by Terry Spinks, a man who had captured the hearts of the Nation when he won the 18 CARDIFF TIMES

gold medal at flyweight at the 1956 Olympic Games in Melbourne. The meeting for the championship was set for the 2nd of May 1961 at the Empire Pool, Wembley in London. On the night Howard proved to be the better man and produced a brilliant display of boxing to take the title from Spinks who retired in round 10 of a scheduled 15.

On the 7th of September 1965 Howard, who now also held the European title and had a record of 55 bouts with just two defeats, stepped into the ring in London to face his most formidable opponent to date; Vicente Saldivar. The defending undisputed world featherweight champion was a man who was already being spoken of by those who knew the sport as an outstanding fighter, a title holder whose name could be ranked with the greats the division had produced over the years. Saldivar boasted a record of 29 bouts with just one defeat,

this was not going to be an easy night for Howard against an outstanding king of the division. The fight proved to be a tough bruising contest which went the full distance of 15 rounds with both champion and challenger digging down deep to secure a win. After the final bell had sounded to end the battle the right hand of Saldivar was lifted in victory.

Winstone had failed to bring the world crown to British shores, but such was his showing against the southpaw champion, his reputation grew even in defeat proving that he belonged to be amongst the top elite featherweights at that time. Clearly another crack at the title was more than possible for the Welsh Wizard in the future, it was now a matter of putting a few more wins on the record to get back into contention.

A second crack at Saldivar presented itself on the 15th of June 1967 at Ninian Park, Cardiff. This was the moment of truth for Howard; could he gain revenge over Saldivar and take the championship?

Since they last exchanged punches, Saldivar had successfully defended the crown three times impressively. While the champion was the favourite to retain his crown, there were many who felt that Winstone had learnt a great deal from their first meeting and had the skills to take the crown.

Winstone showed his classy skills in the early stages giving a brilliant display of boxing against the ever-advancing champion. The fight was evenly balanced and there was growing speculation amongst the fans that the home hero just might have done enough to snatch the crown. Their hopes were dashed when at the end of the final round the Mexican was declared the winner and still champion of the world. Both challenger and title holder had given their everything in this magnificent contest pushing themselves to the very limit of their endurance. The two fighters received much praise from the boxing press worldwide. Winstone could hold his head up high for his truly magnificent effort against Saldivar. At that moment in time, it looked as if Winstone’s dream of becoming a world title holder had come to a finish and that his future would be confined to the European and British circuit. However, following his outstanding performance Against Saldivar, the Welshman was given yet another chance at the championship.

The opportunity took place on the 14th of October

1967 and the meeting would take place at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. If the Welshman could not defeat the champion on home ground what chance did he have in the Mexican’s own backyard? Winstone not only had Saldivar to contend with, but he also had to get acclimatised to the high altitude of the country - no easy task.

The smart money was on the champion once again; all the odds favoured the title staying in Mexico. Yet at the start of this contest the Welshman looked most confident moving around the ring smoothly out boxing the champion using his left jab to fine purchase, time and time again it found its target sending a spray of sweat from the Mexican’s face.

Saldivar was unable to pin his man down missing with a number of his punches. It was looking good for Winstone, was it possible that an upset was to take place and it was going to be third time lucky for the challenger? It certainly would prove to be ironic if Winstone could win the crown away from home after failing twice in the UK. The twelfth round put pay to any such notions Saldivar was starting to catch up with Winstone, closing down the distance and landing frequently with his shots.

The Welshman was now very tired from his earlier efforts. The ever-advancing Mexican title holder connected with a solid blow sending Winstone to the canvas for a count. After getting to his feet, Howard who was clearly shaken, walked into another attack, and was taking further punishment from a champion who knew he was now very close to winning and retaining the crown. Saldivar was determined to end the bout in that stanza, Winstone’s corner had seen enough and made the right decision by throwing in the towel to end the contest in round 12. It was heartbreaking, but as before Winstone gave his all, he could do no more against a fine champion whom he pushed all the way. The world title aspirations seemed to be over for the Welshman. Winstone wasn’t the first excellent fighter in boxing history not to hold a world crown and he wouldn’t be the last. At that moment it looked as if Howard’s boxing career was well and truly over, where could he go from here?

Saldivar then surprised the boxing world when he announced his retirement from the sport. The WBC later matched Howard with Japan’s Mitsunori Seki for their version of the championship. Seki was CARDIFF TIMES 19

a talented southpaw who had a record of 72 fights winning 61, losing 10 and drawing one and like Winstone had chased a world title dream for a number of years, with every effort ending in failure. The two boxers stepped into the ring at the Royal Albert Hall on the 23rd of January 1968. This time Howard was the favourite to win the general view being that at last he would claim a world title. Seki gave Winstone a number of problems before the fight came to an end in round nine of fifteen when the referee stepped in to stop the contest in Howard’s favour with Seki being badly cut over the right eye. At long last, Howard Winstone was a world featherweight champion.

The WBC later ordered Winstone to make his first defence against Jose Legra, a Cuban born Spanish resident. Howard was no stranger to Legra, a talented boxer whom he had once outpointed in a difficult bout over 10 rounds in 1965. Since that time Legra had gone from strength to strength, fighting his way into the world ten.

While waiting for this bout to take place, Winstone was able to squeeze in a 10 round nontitle bout against London boxer Jimmy Anderson, the reigning British super featherweight champion, on the 9th of April 1968 at the Empire Pool, Wembley. Howard won on points after being given a difficult time by his opponent. It appeared based on this performance that the Welshman’s best days were behind him.

Howard was still a class act but at 29 years of age with 66 fights behind him, the cracks were now starting to show.

On the 24th of July 1968 the day of reckoning had arrived; Winstone’s first defence of the world title 20 CARDIFF TIMES

which he had fought so hard to win was on the line. The challenger Jose Legra brought into the ring a reported record of 111 fights of which he had won 102 lost five and drew four.

The contest was staged at Coney Beach area in Porthcawl.

Even in front of his home fans, Howard was considered the underdog. Winstone’s skills had deteriorated while the ever confident Legra was at his peak and hungry for the title. The first round was not a good one for Winstone who was floored twice by his challenger, sadly this was not the Winstone of old, he who was now slower and less agile. Legra could sense that victory was within his grasp and continued his assault on the defending title holder, each blow he struck took him closer to the championship. Howard who was never short of heart lasted out the round but went back to his corner with his left eye shut. Howard’s chances of retaining the crown looked slim, in fact it looked impossible, especially with the damaged eye. Every effort was made by Winstone’s manager Eddie Thomas to reduce the swelling but to no avail. In the fifth round of a scheduled 15 the referee stepped in to stop the bout, it was all over; Jose Legra was the new WBC world featherweight champion. Winstone had clearly thrown his last punch in the professional ring.

Howard Winstone who left the sport with respect and a record of 67 bouts with just six defeats was proudly honoured in the Queen’s Birthday list with a well-deserved MBE in 1968. Sadly Winstone died at the age of 61 in the year 2000 but his memory lingers on and will not be forgotten. Howard showed that despite the knock-backs in life you can succeed. A man boxing can be truly proud of.

A bronze statue was unveiled of Howard in his hometown of Merthyr Tydfil in 2001 and in 2010 a film was made based on the life of the Welshman titled Risen.

A Question of Boxing is a quiz book which will surely test even the keenest fans of the sport The publication is a must have for anyone who follows the noble art. The book is both educational and interesting covering all aspects of the sport.

Over the years boxing has produced a number of fighters who have gone on to make an impact in the ring and have hence become a great in doing so.

While the outstanding heavyweight greats, often get more of the attention from the media and the fans, it would be correct to say that the lighter weight divisions have also produced a number of boxers who can be called great.

About the Author Ralph Oates is a former amateur boxer who has maintained his interest in the sport by writing a number of boxing books over the years.

He is an historian on the sport and a former boxing consultant for Guinness World Records.

Ralph was a regular contributor to the British Boxing Board of Control Yearbook for 18 years.

Ralph also had regular columns writing about boxing in the Essex Courier, Take One and the magazine Bounce.

Sadly they are often forgotten in the mists of time. Questions are asked about champions from the past to the present and the bouts which have captured the imagination of the fans.

The knockout questions which are presented in chronological order will force readers to dig deep into their memories. Some of the questions posed will appear easy while others will prove to be testing.

The book will also appeal to the new generation of fans who are now taking an interest in the fistic sport and thus wish to learn more about the game.

Ralph Oates will be donating the royalties from the book to The Ringside Charitable Trust. This charity intends to build a home to look after exboxers who are suffering from ill health.

The book can be purchased at any good bookshop or Amazon or go to the publishers website use the code OATES 25 in the checkout and they will get 25% off any book the link being www.jmdmedia.co.uk.

On sale at £12.99 CARDIFF TIMES 21

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Winser London reveal their latest celebrity collaboration with Cat Deeley Winser London is a British brand that was launched eight years ago, in 2013, by the inspiring Kim Winser, OBE - probably a woman with one of the best track records in British fashion retail. Her experience in leading positions at Marks and Spencer, Pringle of Scotland, Aquascutum and as a special advisor to Natalie Massenet at Net-a-porter brought her to found her very own fashion brand, for which she had a simple philosophy; to create great designs that would transcend the seasons and would give each woman an instant energy boost and confidence. She wanted to offer designs with qualities worthy of the luxury sector but priced more affordably.

It all began with simple, flattering designs that add an easy yet polished style to our lives, with a special passion in helping every woman feeling more confident, dressed in clothes that fit well and flatter, that are comfortable and will last and last, just timeless. They are wardrobe builders and over time will deliver a collection of versatile, wherever, forever, favourites.

Perfect for office looks - especially with their super flattering Miracle range - and chic weekend outfits alike. If you are looking for great quality investment pieces you shouldn’t miss their cashmeres and silks, and just treat yourself to a style that will make you feel special not only for a season, but for at least a whole decade.

One of the nicest aspects of Winser London are certainly the celebrity collaborations the brand regularly does. After designing two capsule collections with supermodel Yasmin Le Bon and award-winning actress Gillian Anderson, WL has now collaborated with British presenter and book author Cat Deeley who just returned to London with her husband Patrick Kielty and their two sons after leaving LA. Cat has created her very first 24 CARDIFF TIMES

womenswear capsule collection, under the label, Knit by Cat Deeley for Winser London.

The collection comprises three hand finished styles, designs knitted in luxe Geelong lambswool yarn, produced at the Todd & Duncan mill on the banks of Loch Leven in Kinross and then handcrafted at Teviot Knitwear Hawick, an artisan manufacturer in the Borders. For this Collaboration they have proudly been rejuvenating the age-old craft of “hand intarsia” knitting, where their skilled workforce follow hand charted graphs to develop unique and unparalleled patterns, made by inlaying yarns in a specific order to create designs that take a great deal of time and expertise to realise.

The colour palette includes soft chalk neutrals accented with pink, grey, blues and black. The styles include, a wide collar zipped patterned jumper, a midi length patterned poncho and a chunky zip patterned cardigan with a soft collar.

The inspiration behind the collection was among others an image of the incredible Marilyn Monroe

“I was delighted when Cat decided to join us, designing a selection of hand knits with her signature flair.

Having recently moved back to the UK with her family from Los Angeles, it seemed the perfect opportunity to co-create a range inspired by her personal style. We are producing this collection at a small independent factory, Teviots in Hawick, in the borders of Scotland, as a brand we always want to support home-grown, quality businesses. The designs are hand knitted in Scottish yarns from a famous luxury Scottish mill, Todd and Duncan.”

taken in 1962 on Santa Monica Beach wearing a chunky cardigan.

About the collaboration Cat Deeley said: “I have always been obsessed with clothes and the way they make you feel, how they contribute to your well-being and how being warm and cosy can make a physical difference to your mood. I collect knitwear, both vintage and new, and have a vast collection of favourite pieces. I have longed to have my own label and so when Kim approached me, I decided to incorporate all that I loved about colour and yarns into my tiny capsule collection under my very own KNIT label. I loved creating it and am so happy that we could have these pieces made in Britain and most importantly, from British wool.”

The most sustainable clothing is the styles that we love forever that we wear over again and may even pass down through generations. Winser clothes are to be collected and loved, not just bought, and the Cat Deeley pieces definitely are timeless quality pieces that will transcend styles and generations to come. They offer emotional durability, you will want to keep them, you will want them to last forever.

Cat’s first capsule collection, under the label Knit

by Cat Deeley for Winser London, is available exclusively on winserlondon.com

Kim Winser, OBE, founder & CEO of Winser London, said she loves Cat Deeley’s personal style and was delighted to work with her first design collaboration.

“Successful, confident, stylish women in all walks of life are at the heart of everything we do.” says Kim, “We have previously worked with award winning actor Gillian Anderson and supermodel Yasmin le Bon, bringing their distinctive style to the label with capsule collections.”

CARDIFF TIMES 25

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Pre-Pandemic Sweets, Post Pandemic Thinking

By Jen Abell

We’ve had a lot of time to think over

global favourites. Like many of us of late;

the past year, haven’t we? Perhaps

watching climate change become

too much time. Although the stop/ start nature of existing as a

climate crisis is making him reflect on his desires and decisions. His

business during a pandemic was

hunger for finding the best custard

distressing at best and ruinous

dishes of the world has evolved

at worst for some; it has given

into an investigation. Has custard,

much needed pause. I eagerly

the timeless classic, in fact, had

watch as business owners

its time? Traditionally, custard is

reveal plans for the future. What has this enforced period taking literal and metaphorical stock meant for entrepreneurs that influence our everyday?

For several, it means a move to sustainable commerce.

Michelin star restaurant, Eleven Madison Park in New York will re-open as a 100% plant-based eatery. This heartening open-ness to change in the face of climate change data takes bravery and flexibility. Hong Kong grocery store Slowood last month announced it will ‘take a step forward’

a dairy cocktail. Most recipes use milk, cream or eggs; sometimes all three. We now know that it takes 628 litres of water to produce just one litre of cow’s milk. Six hundred and twenty-eight to one. It’s tough to justify that choice in the face of global water shortages. Especially difficult when you learn oat milk requires 48 litres of water for a litre of produce.

Can Alan’s lifelong favourites and personal dream survive our necessary, and increasingly popular move to dairy free diets? Enter Thibault and his culinary cleverness.

and cease all fish sales after learning of the environmental

Each month from May 2021 until December 2021, Thibault

damage the fishing industry causes in Netflix documentary

and Alan have scheduled the release of a famous custard

Seaspiracy. Their statement read “We believe every tiny

dish from around the world…with a plant-based twist.

step counts and hope to join our community to make the

Thibault’s small but perfectly formed Splott kitchen, usually

world a better place.”

dedicated to his technicolour vegan macarons (strawberry

Being environmentally friendly needn’t always mean ‘ceasing’, though. What if you could have your cake and eat

and basil flavour anyone?!) has become an experimental studio pioneering in….custard.

it too? Cardiff is lucky to have its own crew hoping to help

The day I’m writing this sees the launch of Cardiff’s first

you do just that! Many of you have met Alan Golding without

ever plant-based Manchester Tart and with it, the premiere

knowing it. He’s the friendly face with the irresistible laugh

of this project. This Northern wonder features vanilla

serving your Riverside Sourdough at Cardiff’s weekend

custard in its jelly form poured over cherry jam. This magic

markets. You’ll know Thibault, too. He’s 2020 Bake Off:

combination is layered over golden biscuit pastry crust and

The Professionals winner and chef extraordinaire behind

crowned with desiccated coconut. The clown’s nose glacé

Patisserie Verte. When these gregarious gourmets got

cherry on the coconut snowscape is oh so satisfying. Today,

chatting at Roath’s Farmer’s Market, a lifelong dream came

this experimental twist on a UK classic sold out swiftly in

one step closer to reality.

Roath’s Farmer’s Market. Alan’s clearly not the only person

Alan is a fully paid-up member of the church of custard.

interested in Thibault’s dairy free custard.

By the time I met him six years ago, he’d been dreaming

Thibault’s company, Patisserie Verte, is a small start-up (not

of penning a celebration of custard dishes of the world

for long!) interested in high quality plant-based produce,

for half a decade. He’d named the book and chosen his

sustainability and buying local. Amongst Thibault’s catering

28 CARDIFF TIMES

supplies, I see vanilla pods from Spice of Life, various wares

writing, culinary tours may be the closest we get to our

from Ripple and a delivery from a Cardiff microbrewery.

favourite countries for a spell. Excuse me whilst I grab my

His interest in this project comes from several angles. He

fork!

wants to offer an easy and delicious way to help us apply the reflections we’ve all made during the pandemic. We had to shop local when we had to stay local. People don’t have to now. But unusual, high quality food just might motivate people to hit their district’s weekend market instead of their supermarket. And as always with his creations, they’re for everyone. He wants his plant-based creations to exceed the

This April, the World Meteorological Organisation released; ‘The State of the Global Climate 2020’ using the latest data available. Antonio Guterres, United Nations Secretary General comments; ‘This report shows we have no time to waste. The climate is changing, and the impacts are already too costly for people and the planet.’

taste and quality of their dairy counterparts without the vegan

At a time when so many trends like sea level, greenhouse

label. Personally, nothing makes me hand money over faster

gas and temperature rise move in the wrong direction;

than seeing that leaf ended V, but I do find the idea of hiding

it’s heartening to see this locally focused, climate aware

in plain sight interesting. And wow, the man likes a challenge.

passion project take shape. There’s something so charming

Each month, he’s learning to make a new dish with no

about a chat in a local market leading to a commitment to

guarantee of success.

sustainable custard innovation for the future. Conversely,

Custard hunters can track this project at ‘world of custard’

last year, margarine producer Flora reverted to dairy in

on Facebook. I’ll be photographing and sharing Thibault’s creations on my @ffotojenic instagram page too. One Friday a month until December, Thibault will whisk and bake a new custard recipe. That very weekend, Cardiff custard fans can buy those tasty batches from Roath’s and Kings Yard’s Saturday markets. You’ll need to be fast though, the Manchester Tarts sold out in eleven minutes in Roath. Popular dainties may even make it to his permanent Patiserrie Verte offering. Do let him know what you think if you’ve tried one. As for this month’s dessert, we’ll be visiting Thibault’s homeland via the Creme Brûlée! With non-essential foreign travel still not permitted at time of

its Buttery after removing it for ethical reasons. Customer complaints instigated this regression despite their ‘overarching goal to encourage everyone to adopt a plant-based diet’. It’s disappointing and ultimately harmful, to see the bravery and leadership of big business buckle.

Thank goodness, always, for the little guys and their openness to respond to the reality of the world they live in.

It’s their innovation, and our everyday decisions that will protect our planet for the next generation of custard fans.

As for this generation of custard fans, I’ll race you to the market.

Jen Abell @ffotojenic

CARDIFF TIMES 29

30 CARDIFF TIMES

Why Learning Music is Good For Children

BENEFITS TO CHILDREN OF ALL AGES

Early musical training helps develop brain areas involved in language and reasoning. It is thought that brain development continues for many years after birth. Recent studies have clearly indicated that musical training physically develops the part of the left side of the brain known to be involved with processing language, and can actually wire the brain's circuits in specific ways. Linking familiar songs to new information can also help imprint information on young minds.

There is also a causal link between music and spatial intelligence (the ability to perceive the world accurately and to form mental pictures of things). This kind of intelligence, by which one can visualize various elements that should go together, is critical to the sort of thinking necessary for everything from solving advanced mathematics problems to being able to pack a book-bag with everything that will be needed for the day.

Music performance teaches young people to conquer fear and to take risks. A little anxiety is a good thing, and something that will occur often in life. Dealing with it early and often makes it less of a problem later. Risk-taking is essential if a child is to fully develop his or her potential.

FOR THE VERY YOUNG CHILD The Forte Jungle Music and Music is Fun (MIF) programmes exposes your child to a rich sensory-based experience where they can participate and enjoy a range of activities.

Jungle Music will teach you how to use music as a tool to aid your parenting. Music can be an effective way to settle a crying baby, to help children with transition and to overcome resistance to new and unfamiliar experiences. Jungle Music's songs and quirky actions equip parents with a useful "bag of tricks" for when boredom sets in – in a shopping queue, in the car or whenever young minds need to be kept amused.  

Forte's early piano courses will benefit your child through: • enhancing brain development. Keyboard courses can improve your child's ability to think, learn, reason and create.

• promoting active participation by children, which is essential for heightened brain development • a strong focus on fun, sensory-based activities enhances your child's learning experience and increases the impact and overall benefits afforded by music.

• building your child's confidence and self esteem.

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Local Armed Forces Charity Calls out for Volunteers in Cardiff

local SSAFA service in your area? The Branch Treasurer plays a key role encompassing book keeping and financial administration.

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity is seeking volunteers for a variety of rewarding roles in Cardiff to help support the local Armed Forces community.

The Armed Forces charity provides financial, practical, and emotional support for serving personnel, veterans, and their families across the UK and worldwide.

The local SSAFA branch is in need of a range of volunteer roles, such as an Assistant Branch Secretary and Branch Treasurer.

The Assistant Branch Secretary will support the Branch Secretary and provide support to all volunteers, as well as oversee casework and ensure clients are getting the best possible support.

Or how about looking after the finances for the

SSAFA spokesperson: “Our network of trained volunteers are at the heart of our work. Our volunteers are more important now more than ever as we face even more challenges, both physically and financially, and continue to help those who need our help.”

The roles are varied, flexible and very rewarding, giving back to those that have served. Previous experience isn’t necessary as training will be provided. All backgrounds and experiences are welcomed, and a military background is not essential.

Everyone who offers their time to volunteer with SSAFA makes a huge difference.

If you are interested in volunteering for SSAFA, please contact your local Branch on 02920 383 852 or visit: www.ssafa.org.uk/cardiff-vale-glamorgan CARDIFF TIMES 33

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Lab 22 launch new menu ‘Theories + Frontiers’ As we all look forward to bars opening indoors once again, we can be extra excited for what cocktail bar Lab 22 have in store. Come May 17th, the Caroline Street cocktail bar will be reopening its doors with a new and very exciting menu. Having won national awards for their previous two menus, their latest work is not to be missed!

Lab 22’s cocktail menus always follow a scientific theme, and this is no exception. Entitled Theories + Frontiers, it is inspired by the undiscovered science of the future. “In our last menu, we took inspiration from great scientists throughout history for the theme and the drinks” says bartender Max Hayward. “This time, we wanted to look forwards – to the areas of science still unconquered by humanity.” The drinks list consists of 12 single-serve and 2 sharing size drinks, each based on a different “theory or scientific frontier”.

For example, the Carbon Cooler is a vodka, citrus and mint highball based on Climate change. The drink is made using Icelandic vodka Reyka (distilled using renewable geothermal energy) and upcycled lemon and lime husks from the bar. Then there’s the Snakebite Negroni: a homage to the relatively new study of Venomics, featuring hop-infused calvados, west-country apples, white vermouth and absinthe – expect that one to pack a punch! “We’ve really pushed ourselves creatively this time!” Says Max. “We’ve been using techniques and methodology we’ve never done before, and we’ll hopefully be bringing something new and exciting to the Cardiff cocktail scene!”

In addition to some exciting drinks, the team at Lab 22 are continuing to show their support for the local community through their drinks menu. The stunning artwork on the pages is done by Cardiff illustrator Dom Tsoi, and each drink features a locally sourced ingredient, supporting independent Cardiff businesses such as Waterloo Tea, coffee roastery Uncommon Ground, and Lisvane-based honey producers Nature’s Little Helpers. Furthermore, Theories + Frontiers features two cocktails which donate proceeds to local charitable causes. “Supporting Cardiff-based business and charities is one of our top priorities” said Max, “We were happy with what we accomplished on the last menu, but this time we wanted to do even more this time around, especially considering how hard the pandemic has been for so many people.” The two sharing-size drinks will each donate £5 of each sale towards Cardiff Foodbank and to hospitality support charity The Drinks Trust.

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CARDIFF TIMES 37

Win a custom landscape-based painting worth £400 in support of The Survivors Trust charity Young artist Caitlin Eve Derrick is using her talent for painting to highlight the support available for victims of sexual violence

By Kellie Williams In March 2020, the Crime Survey for England and Wales released statistics stating an estimated 773,000 adults aged between 16 and 75 years were victims of sexual assault in the year March 2019 to March 2020. The latest ONS report states that there were almost four times as many female (618,000) victims than male (155,000).

‘Every five minutes in the UK someone is raped,’ states The Survivors Trust. A powerful statement that brings to light the increasingly heartbreaking statistics on sexual violence in the UK.

Caitlin’s new art studio in Elysium Gallery Studios, Swansea.

Image credit: Caitlin Eve Derrick Caitlin Eve Derrick, a 19-year-old artist from Swansea, South Wales is passionate about giving back to her community and supporting charities close to her heart. Caitlin has chosen to support The Survivors Trust charity in her next artistic endeavour.

After graduating from Afan College in 2019, Caitlin decided to pursue her dream career as an artist and launched her first solo collection ‘Flourish’ in October 2019 in support of Caitlin with her latest landscape-based paintings from her collection ‘Flourish’. Image credit: Caitlin Eve Derrick

38 CARDIFF TIMES

the wildlife charity RSPB to promote their campaign, ‘Let Nature Sing.’

“I paint to share my love for nature and specifically my love for the beautiful Welsh coastlines I have around me,” said the artist, Caitlin. Image credit: Caitlin Eve Derrick Caitlin’s art quickly became popular on social media, gaining

raffle. All proceeds will be given to the charity against sexual

a large following of 1,770 followers who were eager to watch

violence, The Survivors Trust.

Caitlin’s career grow and anticipate what creative pursuits she embarks on next.

Set up in 2000, The Survivors Trust charity created a support network for those suffering from trauma and abuse and

Her work has since been recognised all over the world

now has 124 members across the UK and Ireland, aiding to

and the young artist is shipping internationally. Caitlin has

provide a service for survivors.

also recently opened her new art studio in Elysium Gallery Studios in Swansea.

Caitlin has raised £66 so far with 41 days remaining on the raffle. However, it isn’t just about raising money for the

“I have always felt that if I had a following, then it would be

charity, Caitlin said that she aims to promote the charity for

my duty to use it to do good, that is why I contacted and

those in need and unaware of what support is available.

teamed up with the RSPB for my first solo exhibition,” she said.

A stroke of sincerity

“I want to raise awareness and help break the stigma around sexual violence in the UK,” said Caitlin.

She concluded, “This is not the first time I have chosen to

Following the death of Sarah Everard in South London which

work alongside a charity and it will not be the last time, as

led to the #reclaimthesestreets movement against sexual

long as I have a platform to use my voice, then I will do so. I

violence and women’s public safety, Caitlin’s past trauma

believe we all have the power to make a change.”

and experiences resurfaced.

For more information on Caitlin’s charity raffle visit:

“I spent days feeling lost with the world, disheartened by the

https://go.rallyup.com/caitlineveartistwales/Campaign

events unfolding in the media. I began researching ways I could help, and I came across The Survivors Trust,” she said.

The free helpline

Caitlin is offering a custom-made, landscape-based acrylic

Survivors Trust is:

painting to one lucky person who takes part in her charitable

T: 08088 010818

number for The

CARDIFF TIMES 39

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CARDIFF TIMES 41

Let there be books

By Sara John

By the age of eleven, after school and after tea, each Friday

I was still a pupil in standard five at Gelli Junior School

evening, I was borrowing my own weight in books from my

prior to discovering the joys of library-visiting, although Mr.

local Library.

Jones, our very stern and formidable teacher had always

Pentre Library was on the hillside above Ton Pentre, with commanding views of the surrounding mountains. The building had once been the Intermediate School for the area, so it was spacious with large windows and had been built from local Pennant sandstone in the previous century. I loved going up the front steps and through the ever-open doors (so it seemed to me) into the large front porch which was often festooned with seriously wet umbrellas and damp raincoats.

It was within walking distance of my home, or a one penny half-fare ticket on the every ten minute bus service. Yes! it was that long ago. It was The Central Library, in those days, for the two Rhondda Valleys, the Fach and the Fawr, (little and big). However, each district or village in both the valleys had its own local library as well.

encouraged us all to READ. He seemed less strict and frightening after the big day of the scholarship examination and allowed us to spend many subsequent afternoons just reading in class. This resulted in a delivery of reading books from the Education Authority, the books went into a cupboard at the front of Mr. Jones’ desk. Most children had never seen so many books, not all of the same size like our school Book One, Book Two and so on from long before. These were all different sizes, shapes and colours!

Many children in the 1950’s were living in homes with few, if any, books. There was usually a very large family Bible on a small table, in the front room, which no child would be allowed to touch, and maybe a dictionary (unread since it arrived delivered from Odhams Press in answer to a newspaper advertisement). Few books were available for

We schoolchildren who had reached eleven years had all sat

children, anyway and they were, up until the nineteen sixties,

the Scholarship examination in March of that year the results

relatively expensive, unlike the glut of children’s books on the

of which would allocate us to a place ‘appropriate’ to our

market today. In my childhood books would only be given at

abilities, the following September. That would be at schools

Christmas and for birthdays.

of three different “levels”; in those days it was Grammar, Secondary Technical or Secondary Modern Schools. There was a second chance possible on offer for pupils following

With no younger siblings at home, I could keep the few books that I had free of sticky fingers and pencilled scribbles.

their first year at the ‘Big’ school if their scholarship results

Even today I still have some of my Rupert Bear Annuals, Film

indicated that it was an unsuitable choice for them after all.

books such as Hollywood Album, and of course a copy of

42 CARDIFF TIMES

Louisa M. Alcott’s ‘Little Women’. Not forgetting ‘Sue Barton, Student Nurse’. Then I moved on to read books belonging to my parents and grandparents.

All too advanced for an eleven-year-old, except for two. Three Men in a Boat which I loved and made me laugh, and Uncle Tom’s Cabin which made me cry. I tried reading The Universal Home Doctor, which made me frightened and my mother’s precious copy of Mrs Beeton’s Recipes which made me very worried. In the future, if I married would I have to cook dead hares? clean, defeather and cook pheasants? and fold starched napkins to resemble swans with very long necks?

Why am I writing about books?

They are, nowadays, quite plentiful, easy to obtain and are no big deal. These days you can pay twenty pence in a charity shop, a discounted price on the internet, or full price from the publisher, prior to publication if you are really keen.

What is a book anyway? What is it for? What is this all about?

learning’. It often led to ‘night school’ as evening classes were called and on to a chosen occupation or possibly

A book is a companion. It is a faithful friend, especially these days, if you are a woman travelling alone, eating dinner

profession. For me at that time reading was important both at home and at school.

alone, and staying alone in a hotel. In those situations, you can always put a false dust jacket on your racy, romantic novel at your dinner table with a title such as ‘Advanced Quantum Physics’. That should keep you safe from marauding would be Romeos.

Then, at the age of eleven I made an astounding discovery!

In Standard Five when Mr Jones, our teacher, allowed us to read our own, or the new schoolbooks in the locked cupboard at the front of his desk. Many of the boys in

A book is not just a book. You open it, you read it, you put it

Standard Five brought books to school that all seemed to

away. They are an aid to understanding; you can discover

have the same cover. I was offered a ‘lend’ of one to look

and learn at exactly the right pace for you, you can drench

at. It had a protective thick, clear plastic cover and had a

yourself in information, opinions, references, humour and

loose list stuck inside with a crucial date showing when it

at any time you can as it were ‘enquire within’. You can find

had to be returned to the Central Library otherwise you had

out more without asking anyone, you do not risk censure

to pay a fine!

from others, you and your book share the secret of you not knowing something.

It appeared that they were all about a man called Biggles and they were by Captain W.E.Johns. They were written

Best of all, a book does not require batteries! Books are

for our age group, but clearly aimed at boys. Gender divide

handy and portable. The Penguin paperbacks were designed

was at its deepest in the nineteen fifties (just look at the

to fit a (man’s) hand and to go in a (man’s) suit pocket easily.

fashions of those years) but I did not let that stop me from

Your books belong to you, only you. If you lend a book, you

finding out more.

risk never seeing it again. You have been warned!

I discovered that many of the boys in my class had joined

Living with my parents and maternal grandparents, and as

the library! They said that I could join too if I obtained a

an only child I was taught to read when I was very young by

‘ticket’. The best time to go there was after tea on Friday

my father even before starting school. In the South Wales

evening, that was late closing! So, the following Friday I

Valleys of long ago there was a strong culture of ‘book

set off on my first visit. I was on my own. I was nervous as

CARDIFF TIMES 43

‘only children’ often are but determined. I went in and waited

atlas and dictionary that my father bought for me in ‘Phillips

at the curved counter where grown-ups were handing in

the Typewriter’ shop, stationer, and bookseller at the top of

books.

Pentre hill, (not for Christmas or for my birthday!) are still

It was soon my turn. There were two lady librarians behind the counter, very busy but not smiling, neither friendly nor frightening. They both wore blouses with Peter Pan collars and pretty brooches at the neckline. Both wore

in regular use on my desk. I recall the two ladies who ran the shop wearing floral smocks, hair in a bun and, also, wearing spectacles. They could probably type very well too, and had many neat blot-free notebooks.

spectacles which indicated to me they probably did a great

Inspired by access to books I now knew that I had much

deal of reading. I was given a card to take home and to

to look forward to in future. Books were, but only secretly

school for signatures from my parents, my teacher, and

inside my head, overtaking plans for being a bride

the headmistress. I was to return the following Friday to

someday, though there were no thoughts or plans at that

collect my ‘ticket’. The librarian in the pink blouse insisted

time of finding a bridegroom.

that I showed her my hands, backs and palms and then she suggested that I should go through the open archway opposite into the Children’s Section and look at the books that I would be permitted to borrow in the future.

I could not believe it. All the walls were covered with bookshelves and all the bookshelves were full of books.

In my bedroom at home the shelf above the cast iron fireplace held the books that I had purchased from Woolworths in Tonypandy with my pocket money. They were hardback editions of children’s classics and cost, new, two

How essential was a bridegroom I often wondered to myself? What did they actually do? Did it matter? I was too young to even ask.

The dress and the veil would be enough excitement for me anyway, why would I need a bridegroom?

For the next six years I tried to read as much as I could. I haunted the library having encouraged my parents to join so I could “chose books on their behalf” as it were. Well, that would be my explanation should one ever be required.

and sixpence each. On the back of the dust jacket there was

The seventh year at Grammar School was quite special

a list of titles available in the series, I had six so far but there

because as Sixth formers the School Library with a grand

were many more to save up for. Children of the New Forest,

piano, parquet floor and books beyond expectation were

Coral Island, Lorna Doone, Little Women, Good Wives, Jo’s

available for us and only us, to consult or read during

Boys and Little Men.

prep periods. I remember discovering Brewer’s Dictionary

Now there was a world of books available to me in the library: rooms beyond rooms; furlongs of shelves; multitudes of books; all available to borrow; And for as long as a fortnight at a time!

- On condition you had clean hands and your application had been accepted I could not wait for it to be next Friday.

Little was I to know then how many libraries I would enjoy, how many books I would read, how valuable they would be to me. My

44 CARDIFF TIMES

of Phrase and Fable and being introduced to the Dewey Decimal System for classifying topics.

Then at eighteen it was off to Art School in Cardiff and

They appear to have a problem both with the printed word

another exciting Library to explore. We students were extra

and with books themselves. They are bereft of curiosity

lucky to have an exceptional Librarian, (the late) John

about what lies under the cover. They can all read and write

Beynon who also did a lot of work for the lecturers and tutors

perfectly well so is it something about the ‘authority’ of the

as a researcher. No bun, specs, smocks or “let me see your

printed word? Memories of childhood possibly? Difficulties

hands”. We were nearly grown-ups by then.

with the way they were being taught at a young age? They

However, most of us spent a lot of our energy being Art Students. We (and that included a few of the boys) wanted to look French and as much like Juliette Greco as possible, long straight hair, an overlong fringe, far too much black eyeshadow and black mascara and smoking Disque Bleu cigarettes. Looking bored, cool, intellectual and French (even if you were from Bargoed or Taffs Well) took up more energy than any one’s parents could imagine. In particular the

seem at home with handwritten letters, cards and notes but not with the printed page. Maybe it is after being frightened and overwhelmed by books at school, or falling behind other children when being taught to read.

I must find a book on this subject and find out more.

I reckon those who cannot pick up book, read a little, and want to read more are missing so much.

parents (mothers mostly) who said, “YOU are not going out

These days I have no toys from long ago, but frequently

looking like that are you???”

return to those influential books from childhood: Beatrix

The one necessity to keep up this impersonation of a French Art Student was to carry a book, in French of course, of anything that had been written by Jean-Paul Sartre. In

Potter’s Tom Kitten story; tales about Rupert Bear and his friend Billy Badger; Lorna Hills’ books about ballet; and the chapter telling of Meg going to ‘Vanity Fair’ in Little Women.

addition, to drink black coffee out of a mug while sitting on

I fear I have by now, read enough about Biggles. After

the floor, or, preferably on a studio couch. You also had

writing one hundred and four books about his adventures I

to look very bored by life, you stayed silent and appeared

reckon Captain W.E.Johns had also had enough of James

opinion-less. It was essential NOT to be enthusiastic about

Bigglesworth.

anything. But, the library and the wonderful Librarian there was like having an individual tutor and best friend with endless patience, knowledge and experience and a profound love of books.

Of course, we students were also expected to attend

Although I realise that Captain W.E.Johns who introduced so many children to the adventures of Biggles, was instrumental for me. He improved my reading ability, and, most importantly sent me up the steps and into The Central Library in Pentre all those years ago.

lectures, paint, draw, create, learn, and write essays - that, we were frequently told, was ‘the whole idea’ of us attending college.

Since those long-gone days, I have visited many Libraries and Institutions that never cease to surprise and intrigue me.

From University Libraries with their sophisticated interchange systems, specialist Libraries such as Swansea University’s Hendrefolian House housing so much about the South Wales coalfield, including original documents to the National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth which overwhelms all the others.

To recall just a few.

Having wallowed in the world of books for so long I am occasionally disconcerted to find that not everyone shares my enthusiasm for books. I have had, and still have, a few friends, clever, able, eager, and interested in all sorts of topics, adventures and projects who seem to suffer from what I call ‘Bookfear’.

CARDIFF TIMES 45

CARDIFF TIMES 47

Protect your Wealth

By Michael Fogg

through rental of the vehicle (although make sure that your insurance allows for this) or else through using the vehicle as a private hire vehicle (for example, a taxi, a limousine, or for specialist work such as wedding hire).

Aside from bricks and mortar ‘real estate’, a common asset owned by many people is a vehicle.

Be it a daily run-around car, or one or more classic or other collectable vehicles.

These vehicles are part of an individual’s personal possessions, legally known as chattels. I have been asked on a couple of occasions over the past month how these are treated for tax purposes.

Obviously, it goes without saying that anything I say here is general observation and should not be treated as any form of financial advice. Please do not rely on it, but instead seek appropriate legal or financial advice from a qualified professional based on your personal circumstances.

Forms of Tax There are, broadly, three forms of tax that I shall focus on in this article. These are Income Tax, Capital Gains Tax, and Inheritance Tax. Each of these three forms of taxation has different rules governing them, and on whether they apply to each vehicle.

Assumptions For each of the three taxes I deal with below, I shall assume that the vehicle is legally owned by one person, rather than by a Registered Company, a Trust, or a Charity. Should the vehicle be owned by any of these, then the rules relating to taxation will be different (and potentially more beneficial – although this will depend upon the situation). I’d be happy to discuss with anyone who has questions on this.

Income Tax A vehicle is an asset, and as such could be used to generate income. Most commonly, this would be 48 CARDIFF TIMES

Should this be the case, any income generated by the vehicle is classed as income and should be accounted for as part of your annual self-assessment tax return. Be aware that there are some costs which can – in some circumstances – be offset against the income to leave a smaller amount against which income tax will be charged.

It’s worth ensuring that you consult with an appropriate professional such as an accountant to make sure that all relevant expenses have been considered.

Likewise, it is worth exploring who the most sensible person is to pay income tax on the income generated by the vehicle. For example, if you are married and one of you is a higher-rate income taxpayer and the other of you is a basic rate income taxpayer, it may be sensible to consider using your spousal gifting allowance to legally transfer assets from the ownership of the top-rate taxpayer to the basic rate taxpayer to minimise the amount of income tax that needs to be paid. Again, should you think this approach might be beneficial, you may benefit from seeking independent advice to ensure that it is done correctly, and legally.

Capital Gains Tax The general rule here is that when an asset has appreciated in value between being acquired and disposed of, that there is a chargeable gain which may need to be taxed. Each person has an annual Capital Gains Tax (“CGT”) allowance which they can use, but any gains above this allowance are taxed at a fairly high rate (currently 28%).

However, there are two exemptions which can be used to legally avoid paying CGT on the sale of a motor vehicle by classing it as a ‘wasting asset’.

This means that it is an asset that is estimated to have less than 50 years’ worth of use remaining.

It’s worth noting that, even when the vehicle remains in existence for over 50 years, the same exemption applies. These exemptions are: • where the vehicle is classed as a passenger car

(basically, anything which can carry a passenger and is not a taxi or motorcycle/sidecar).

• where a vehicle is not classed as a passenger car, it can be classed as ‘machinery’ for CGT purposes.

A word to the wise, however... where the car has been used for the purposes of a business and tax allowances have, or could have been claimed on it, the exemptions would not apply. Tax would, therefore, be on due upon disposal of the asset.

Again, therefore, I recommend independent advice should you be considering using a vehicle to generate income (please see my section on income tax above).

Inheritance Tax The rules around Inheritance Tax (“IHT”) are a little more complex. You can leave an unlimited amount to your surviving spouse or legal civil partner without IHT being due. Should you leave your Estate (being what you legally own on the date of your death) to anyone else then some of it may trigger a need to pay IHT. Each of us has a personal IHT allowance (a ‘nil rate band’) which is currently £325,000 per person. The amount that can be left free of IHT can, in some cases rise to as much as £1m which can be left to certain people free of any IHT.

Likewise, this amount can be reduced if you have made certain gifts in the seven years before your death, or if you have transferred assets into Trust (the rules around this are quite complex, as some Trusts are only taken into account for the seven years before death, and others are always taken into account).

The value of each vehicle you own on the date of your passing will form a part of your Estate for tax purposes. For a vehicle that is being transferred to a new owner (a beneficiary of the Estate) it is usually sufficient for a general appraisal of market value to be obtained using a resource like Parkers Car Valuation Guide. However, for a more specialist vehicle (in particular, for vehicles over 50 years of age or where they are particularly high value) it is advisable to make use of a specialist professional valuer with expertise in vehicle valuations. Should you have a need for this, again, please feel free to make contact and I will do my best to assist.

Need Help?

If you would like any help or advice on anything mentioned above, we would be happy to answer any questions by phone or email. Please get in touch on 029 2021 1693 or by emailing TrustingWillpower@outlook.com.

CARDIFF TIMES 49

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A Reminder That Help and Hope is All Around Us

By Michael James

I am sure that, just like me, my fellow, regular monthly contributors to this fine magazine often sit in front of their computers asking themselves, “What can I write about this month that might be of interest to our readers?”. Or, perhaps it’s only me? The other writers may be full of ideas for articles and may even struggle to decide which to write first. I am more of the school of, ‘leave it to the last minute’ school of thought or, to put it in another way, an ‘inspiration out of desperation’, kind of guy!’. That’s the situation that faced me earlier today, with the deadline of editor in the back of my mind and with nothing in my mind to fill the blank page before me.

to a greater or lesser extent with this and who face their

Then, my telephone rings. It’s a friend ringing to enquire

personal, ‘mountains of fear’ in their lives and that phone

how my Wife and I are doing. “Are you both OK? Are you

call struck a chord with me. It is even more significant

both well? Have you had your jabs? Is there anything I

because, as I write, we are in the middle of what has been

can do for you?”. Delighted to receive the call, I assured

nationally declared, ‘Mental Health Awareness Week’. A

her that we are OK, had our jabs, are both very well and

time that asks us to recognise and acknowledge those in

there is nothing that we need, thank you! However, what I

our community and in our family and friends who may be in

did say was how much her ringing meant to us and how it

need of help, even the help that making contact means if

really made our day. Just a little thing I know and perhaps

only by a simple smile or a cheery “hello”.

something that you might consider not worth mentioning.

To coincide and help with ‘Mental Health Awareness Week’,

If you do think that, then think again because a simple

the media has been full of many of our sport stars, and

telephone call, an e-mail, text message, letter or post

showbiz celebrities coming out to speak about how they too

card (if you are as old as I am), can often make the world

have suffered with their own problems with statements like,

of difference to the person you are contacting, especially

“I had no idea what mental health problems meant!”, or “If

during these long days of lockdown. Thankfully we seem

only I could have known others felt the same way as I did”.

to be coming out of that difficult period, but for many in

Many of them have said that they now know better and

our community they have been enduring their own form of

have benefited from having received counselling and are

lockdown even before Covid-19 became an issue and sadly,

now able to talk about it. Yes, talking about it does help but

it may be with them for some time to come, long after this

not only with the professionals. That may be the only way

present Coronavirus has gone away. I refer of course to

that some of us can get the help we need but sometimes it

those among us who regularly suffer from worries, anxiety,

can simply be by speaking to someone who is prepared to

loneliness, depression, and every other form of mental

listen, to enable us to ‘get it off our chests’. Talking, we are

disability you can think of disabilities that are not obviously

told, is often the first step in receiving the help we need. It’s

visible.

never an easy step and is often more difficult to open up to

The friend who rang us suffers with a number of these disabilities and therefore knows just how much someone

a family member but, as it says in the headline of this piece, ‘Remember that help and hope is all around us’.

asking how you are can mean and I know just how much

‘It’s good to talk’, so the old saying goes and if not to family

that phone call meant to her and to us. A great deal!! We

or friends, then to an organisation like the local branch of

have family and friends who suffer, or who have suffered

the ‘Samaritans’. They are often the first port of call for help,

52 CARDIFF TIMES

ladies in the group from donated materials and each bag contains, a toothbrush, toothpaste, shower gel, shampoo, a comb, and deodorant. These items are welcomed by the patients and also by the NHS staff who can see what a difference it makes and were overwhelmed by what they see as the generosity of the church. Approximately 30 bags have been delivered every month, since May 2019, and a special delivery (complete with a small present for each patient) was delivered at Christmas.

if needed. Others have benefited from sharing their problem with their Church Pastor or Vicar, Imam or Rabbi but all of

The demand is growing, and this small group of ladies

these, whilst willing to listen to you, are certain to advise you

realise that they cannot continue alone and is asking for

to speak with your local GP. I am not trying to advise anyone

help from anyone concerned about the situation, and who

what they should do. As I said earlier, much of this is already

would be willing to make financial contributions which go

out there in the media. It’s just that I know from those who

to buy the toiletries to fill the bags. Each bag only costs £3

have benefited, from talking to someone just what a tonic it

to produce and any donation would be greatly appreciated,

is when someone cares enough to pick up the phone to find

as would help to sew the bags. Perhaps your own Church

out how you are.

might consider helping and perhaps adopt a ward to supply

This time last year I wrote a similar article and told you about how the work that the churches and chapels carry out in our local community is immense and often goes unseen. The same can, of course, also be said about the other faiths in the area as well as those individuals and groups with no faith. I could go on and on about the way our Church and many others and those of different faiths is (are) helping all those in need in our community but the main reason for this article is to highlight the one disability that is often unseen and goes unrecognised, that of those people with mental health issues. Thankfully this is getting more publicity at the moment with both Central and Local Government at

these special bags of toiletries which can mean so much to those in need and not only for the Adult Mental Health Crisis Unit but also the other wards in the hospital. Further details and how you can help support, ‘Hope in Mental Health’, can be obtained from the Church Office on 029 2049 9430, or e-mail: admin@albanyroadbaptist. Or perhaps visit our new Facebook page, ‘Hope in Mental Health’ which is something that we are very excited about and gives details of various events such as an opportunity to sponsor two of the ladies who are undertaking a walk from Heath Hospital to Llandough Hospital to raise funds for materials and items to make and fill the toilet bags.

last listening to campaigning groups at the sharp end of the

The ‘Hope in Mental Health’ project is supported by

problem. One such group is, ‘Hope in Mental Health’, which

Cardiff and Vale Health Charity and Albany Road Baptist

is something that ARBC is doing to help.

Church, Cardiff. Yes, help and hope is all around us, so

The idea came about from one of our Fellowship (in fact, the person who rang me to see if I was alright), who has personal experience of the mental health system and was aware of the struggles that some face, knowing that some are admitted to the Mental Health Crisis Unit at Llandough Hospital, with nothing else other than the clothes they

let us give thanks for all the work in the community carried out by ARBC and all the other churches and voluntary organisations in the area, they are always willing to help you in any way they can. May God bless you and all those you love at this difficult time and let us look forward with hope for the future.

stand up in and with no toiletries to maintain their personal

PS. ‘Breaking News’. With the help of The Mosawi

dignity while they are there. Upon hearing this story, a small

Foundation and Welsh Hearts, we have recently fitted a

group of women from our church decided to try to help

heart defibrillator outside the front doors of ARBC. We can

and they responded by starting the project now known as,

now offer anyone in the community a real chance of life in

‘Hope in Mental Health’, which provides bags of toiletries

an emergency. It’s all registered with the Welsh Ambulance

which are then delivered to the Crisis Unit for distribution

Service, so they have an access code which makes it

to the patients. These toiletry bags are hand made by the

available 24/7.

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Raising Awareness for Finns Foundation

by Natalie McCulloch

If I asked you to think back over the past 40 years potentially you could cite a great deal of change…. possibly you would gasp in the horror that I presume you are old enough to remember this far back or reflect that you actually are….hopefully you would smile either way. Well, even though we’ve seen a great deal of change in the world since the 1980’s, one thing which sadly hasn’t seen any change is the prognosis of the terminal condition DIPG. Thankfully, there is something you can do RIGHT NOW to make a change, and that is chose to learn about DIPG and educate others on it and perhaps even support a wonderful charity which works with families affected by terminal conditions, such as DIPG, called ‘FINNS FOUNDATION’.

I first discovered this little known condition, DIPG, when a lovely colleague of mine, Joanna, wrote her ‘heart’ contribution on our wards heart shaped ‘rainbow of hopes and dreams for 2021’. Alongside the 56 CARDIFF TIMES

inevitable ‘be mask free, see my family, have a haircut’ posts of this challenging year, was Joanna’s ‘Educate people on DIPG’. I couldn’t help but query what DIPG was, and I was instantly touched by her tale and hopeful that I could help in some small way through writing this and helping to raise awareness.

DIPG (Diffuse instrinsic pontine glioma) is a type of high grade brain tumour which originates in the area of the brain stem called the pons. The pons is responsible for numerous critical bodily functions including breathing, swallowing, eye sight and heartbeat, so it goes without saying that the effects of a tumour there are devastating. DIPG is in fact the leading cause of death from paediatric brain tumours and almost exclusively affects children. According to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital the most common symptoms related to DIPG include the following: • Problems with balance and walking • Problems with the eyes (including double vision, drooping eyelids, uncontrolled eye movements, blurred vision) • Problems with chewing and swallowing • Nausea and vomiting • Morning headache or headache that gets better after the child vomits • Facial weakness or drooping (usually one side) (https://www.stjude.org/) Sadly there is no explanation as to why certain children develop this tumor and the survival range has a median of just 8-11

months after diagnosis.

Joanna is Finn’s mum and one of the founders of the phenomenal ‘FINNS FOUNDATION’ which raises money for families with terminally ill children. Sadly, Finn passed away in 2018 just four weeks short of his 13th birthday after being diagnosed with DIPG just 3 weeks prior to his 12th birthday.

Heartbreakingly, his family were told there is nothing to save him, given medication and told to ‘make some memories’.

Joanna and her families strength is illustrated beautifully on their website as they tell of the devastation which hit their family and the incredible enduring strength, courage and love from their beautiful smiley boy, Finn, throughout. She states “He would say “I can beat this”, our hearts would break at this as we knew that there was only a 1% chance that he would, but his smile would carry us through.” Finn’s family are continuing his strength by giving hope, light and love to others via a foundation set up in his memory.

every donation makes a huge difference, but just by raising awareness and educating yourself and others you can make a difference too.

Joanna tells me “80% of the monies raised is given to families with terminally ill children and 20% to research.

We hope one day they will find a cure for this awful illness” There is a 1% chance of a child surviving this dreadful condition but a 100% chance your donation and support will make a huge difference to them and their families.

They are selling badges for just £3 each to support the charity.

Please check out Finns Foundation at www.finnsfoundation.org.uk/ or follow them on twitter, facebook or instagram.

Finn’s Foundation has been created to give cash grants to families of children with terminal illness or a life threatening disease to spend how they see fit. For some it may ease the burden of financial worries that accompany a terminal diagnosis, provide a child with a much welcomed gift or help them create memorable times together on holidays or day trips. Supporting Finns foundation need not be monetary, although obviously CARDIFF TIMES 57

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•BUY NOW PAY 2022 • BUY NOW PAY 2022 • BUY NOW PAY 202 • BUY NOW PAY 2022

• BUY NOW PAY 2022 • BUY NOW PAY 2022 • BUY NOW PAY 2022

• BUY NOW PAY 2022 • BUY NOW PAY 2022 • BUY NOW PAY 2022

Military charity Building Heroes starts-up property maintenance firm in Cardiff Ex-service people bring with them a work and personal conduct ethic that gives assurance of a job being done well, on time and with diligence. Highly developed inter-personal skills make Building Heroes trades very suitable for working Building Heroes is a charity, training military veterans, for employment in the construction industry upon leaving the

in occupied residential or commercial properties where politeness, discretion and communication is paramount.

services. They provide an opportunity for veterans to access

Arriving on time. Putting you at ease. Solving problems,

employment, they also act as an agency - supplying trades

whatever it takes. You can be safe in the knowledge they will

and labour for temporary, contract and permanent positions,

do their absolute best, whilst also giving you the opportunity

as well as temporary to permanent assignments.

to recognise the commitments they have made for their

More than 1,000 veterans have graduated with new

country.

construction skills, with 1,000 more graduating in this

When you give work to a Veteran, to fix a tap, plaster a wall,

academic year. Now they hope to put these skills to further

or re-decorate a house, you are giving something back to

benefit by setting up the property maintenance firm. This will

those who were prepared to risk the ultimate sacrifice, their

provide further employment and raise money to put back into

lives, to keep us safe.

the Charity.

For more detailed information contact Tom Mcloughlin:

So if you need help fixing a leaking tap - gutters cleared

tomm@buildingheroes.org.uk

- help sprucing up the garden or help putting up a shelf,

0330 390 0940 www.buildingheroes.org.uk

Building Heroes are there to help.

With a boom in the Construction Industry and a shortage of skilled and semi-skilled workers, Building Heroes can also provide companies with the option to hire full time.

These are just some of the things that Building Heroes is hoping for in their new handyman and recruitment service.

This will also help keep veterans in work.

These are just a few testimonials from veterans that took part in the course “This has been such a perfect opportunity to get back on my feet and settle into Civilian life once again!”

“Absolutely fantastic course for service leavers/veterans to attend, well structured, great working facilities, and top-notch instructors.”

“Having no experience within the civilian sector and absolutely nothing within any of the construction areas, Building Heroes has changed all of that for me. The course gave me the first opportunity to be away from hectic service life and has given me the first taste of being a civilian and has made the transition a lot easier.”

“This was amazing, I arrived not knowing (or owning) any tool, I leave a very capable soon to be ex-soldier. Words cannot show the difference you have made to me, many, many thanks.”

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DESIGN

& NEWBUILD (Free withDESIGN our Design + Build service)

EXTENTIONS REFURBISHMENT LOFT CONVERSION At Vencer we have the experience & knowledge in all aspects of the design and build process. We provide a NEW BUILDS service that begins with your idea & finishes with us COMMERCIAL PROJECTS producing a professionally built property or property addition.

FREE ONLINE ESTIMATING TOOL The Service:

The Projects we Design & Build:

• Extensions • Newbuilds • Loft Conversions • Renovation & Refurbishment

• General Advice on an Initial Ideas Vencer are dedicated to providing a & Budgeting Architectural Design professional &• high-quality service, Building Control Design ensuring that •customer satisfaction is always achieved.

• Planning Permission • Structural Design & Calculations

www.vencerconstruction.com Ask about our free design service T&C’s apply.

CONTACT Office:

With all the work completed, I would like to express our sincere thanks to you and your team.

We are absolutely delighted with our new home. We will happily recommend Vencer to our friends and family - Diane, a full renovation of a period property

ACCREDITATION

QR CODE

02920 023323

Office: 02920Thomas: 023323 07515 273069 David: 07917 665310 Thomas: 07515 79, 273069 Tŷ Mawr Rd, Llandaff North, Cardiff CF14 2FP Email: enquiries@vencerconstruction.com David: 07917 665310 #Vencer #vencervision Email: enquiries@vencerconstruction.com #Vencer #vencervision Company number: 11502188 VAT number: 311 0933 51

Scan this

www.vencerconstruction.com

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The Handyman ‘A man for all reasons’

Locally based | Free no obligation estimates References a pleasure • • • • • •

PLUMBING FENCING CARPENTRY ELECTRICAL ROOF REPAIRS UPVC WINDOWS & DOORS

• • • • • • •

Under New Ownership Still Going Strong Since 1991

DECORATING PAINTING ODD JOBS BATHROOM FITTING KITCHEN FITTING GARAGE CONVERSIONS EXTENSIONS

No job too small, no matter how trivial you think it may be...

MOB: 07973 713 002 or email: leighasus@live.co.uk

ZEST

ACCOUNTANTS

RUNNING A BUSINESS IS HARD WORK TAKING CARE OF YOUR BOOKS SHOULDN’T BE We look after the complicated stuff, so you can concentrate on growing your business.

NO GREY SUITS, NO JARGON

Just straightforward advice and year-round support for you and your business.

BOOK-KEEPING VAT | PAYROLL ACCOUNTS | TAX CIS | XERO

Contact us now to arrange a

FREE CONSULTATION 01633 546 268 hello@zestaba.co.uk www.zestaba.co.uk

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