Cardiff Times May 2021

MAY 2021

CARDIFF TIMES

®

FREE

Turn to page 15 for the article

LOOK, SAY, SING, PLAY: How new parents in Cardiff and Vale will be helped to build their baby’s brain.

NSPCC_LSSP_Cardiff_Times_Cover_AW2.indd 1

14/04/2021 11:49

We are back open & have even more fabrics to choose from!

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 3

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 May issue.

It’s been so nice over the last couple of weeks to see so much sun for this time of the year, long may it continue! We’ve been lucky enough to take advantage of the good weather and visit a number of different places in South Wales in April with the family.

April was also a busy month in the garden, tending to our seeds and watching the tiny seedlings get stronger week by week.

Mother-nature is a wonderful sight to see and very therapeutic too.

One of our contributors, Jen Abell, tells us that wild garlic is in abundance, so we’ll be on the lookout during our next walk. Please do let us know if you spot any out and about.

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

Both the children returned to school full time last month with no problems settling back in. We must say a huge thank you to our children's’ schools for the way they have managed to re-integrate the children back into a routine so seamlessly, which is a testament to their organisational skills and professionalism.

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

Our son has his birthday in May so we’ll be celebrating him becoming a teenager, which is a scary thought, where has the time gone!

In this month’s issue our regular contributors Sara John, Michael James and Wyn Evans take us on a trip down memory lane. It’s so important to keep telling these stories because without them we will lose an important part of our past.

Carl Marsh has two fabulous interviews for you, one of which is with author Katy Wix who is from the Vale of Glamorgan. We’ve just finished reading Katy’s book and it’s one of the funniest we’ve read in a long time. We want to hear much more from Katy, she’s so talented and has a natural flare for comedy.

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

Thank you to all of our other talented contributors who month after month keep our readers entertained and informed, it really is a privilege and pleasure to be able to publish your fantastic articles.

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

Louise & Mark

Follow us on Twitter @CardiffTimes

www.facebook.com/Cardifftimes

4 44 CARDIFF TIMES

May CONTENTS

3 Local Armed Forces Charity Calls out for Volunteers in Cardiff 6 A mother’s laughter

by Wyn Evans

Happy Birthday Royal Mint Experience!

Located in Llantrisant, South Wales, The Royal Mint Experience welcomes thousands of visitors each year. The truly unique attraction takes visitors ‘behind the scenes’ of coin making, followed by an interactive exhibition exploring 1,100 years of history. Each visitor also has the chance to strike their own UK coin.

This month, The Royal Mint Experience celebrates it’s 5th birthday (a lockdown birthday like most of you are familiar with!). While the Experience is getting ready to reopen very soon, we thought we’d look back on some of our fondest memories…

October 2016 – The Royal Mint Experience opening ceremony!

10 Drink!

by Vince Nolan 13 Care Home Ready to Welcome Back Visitors as Residents Receive Second Jab 15 NSPCC Wales – Look, Say, Sing, Play 16 I Protest, Therefore I Am

by Jen Abell 19 Luxury is the name for Newport private chauffer start-up Luxstar 21 Protect your wealth

by Michel Fogg 22 In The Words Of

by Carl Marsh 25 Natural health brand receives The Queen’s Award for Enterprise 27 From Forte Cardiff to the Juillard School in New York – A Musical Journey 28 Fashion done your own way

by Molly Dutton 32 “I can see the sea!” The Annual Outing

by Sara John 37 Food For Life Get Togethers – Plant and Share in Trowbridge 38 Spring has Sprung and a new Beauty Routine has begun!

by Jo-Lacey 40 Lab 22 launch new menu with reopening 41 Happy Birthday Royal Mint Experience!

42 Youthful Memories of Playing Pitches (Good and Bad)

by Michael James 46 Two young women in Cardiff make a name for themselves through the usage of social media

by Kellie Williams 52 Unmasking a Local Lockdown Superhero

by Natalie McCulloch

By the time The Royal Mint Experience was officially opened by Olympic medallists Jazz Carlin & Sam Cross in October 2016, it had already welcomed over 40,000 visitors since its initial opening in May. The Rio 2016 Team GB medal winners unveiled the Royal Mint Experience’s official opening plaque.

A mother’s laughter ByWyn Evans Born in 1928, my dear departed mother was raised in rural Carmarthenshire and spoke no English until turning twenty. She laughed a lot! Growing up, she laughed at her very name: Eiryl Maude Griffiths.

She thought it a hoot that each and every time her name was called out in school she would necessarily introduce herself as “Eiryl Maude-gyda-‘e’ Griffiths” (“Eiryl Maude-with-an-‘e’ Griffiths”).

She laughed at or with life even when doctors diagnosed that cancer had returned and metastasised.

The chain of events went something like this. Having retired, mam and dad had traded in their car for a mobile home fitted with all the equipment necessary to give an ageing though not yet elderly couple some comfort as they took on the world. Off they would travel, like eighteenth century gentry on a Grand Tour, visiting the places to be seen in on the continent; in France, Italy, Germany. Then they ‘did’ Britain too, taking particular pleasure from the Highlands and Islands. Back in Wales, they followed up their family trees visiting church yards and cemeteries, newspaper archives, and online genealogical specialists. They seemed set fair for a long and happy retirement.

One autumn day in the 1990, mam attended a ‘well woman’ clinic put on, I think, by her GP practice. As she told us afterwards, with customary illogical logic: “I felt like a very well woman indeed and thought that the clinic would be just the ticket”. In one sense the clinic served its purpose as the nurse obviously spotted something seriously amiss. I cannot recall the order of events: was there breast imaging technology in the clinic; was she sent to her local District General Hospital; did she have to wait months for this referral or was it given effect more or less immediately? What I do remember is my parents’ shock.

A mastectomy was performed and all was well for a while. My parents had visited family in New Zealand some years previously and were determined to do so again whilst still in relatively sound health. Two of dad’s sisters lived there and I have more first cousins down there than you can shake a stick at. It was the trip of their lives and they were so very pleased to have taken the opportunity to make it. Not just that but my Kiwi cousin, Glynis, took to fondly addressing my dad as “the old b***ard”, which tickled him pink and set the tone for a relaxed and happy couple of months.

The day after flying back from New Zealand, I think in March 1992, walking across matting of some sort into an out of town supermarket in Carmarthen, mam lost her footing, fell and broke her hip. As bad as that was

6 CARDIFF TIMES

it was but the hors d’oeuvre. Soon after, the cancer returned with metastases. My parents were convinced that there was a causal connection between mam breaking her hip and the return of the cancer. Be that as it may, the medics in Singleton Hospital could do little but offer pain relief. Mam came home to die and passed in the early hours of the morning of 17 November 1992, aged sixty-four.

Regular readers will know that my wife, The Boss, is the second Mrs Evans. (See February 2021 Cardiff Times for a funny account of our first couple of dates.)

My mother adored The Boss and their first meeting was a classic. We had started dating in March 1988 and gotten very close emotionally very quickly. At which point we agreed to back-off a little and give one another space to consider whether we were ready for a serious relationship. We agreed that I would still pop over at

lunchtimes and take her puppy out for a walk; also that the trip we had planned to see my parents would still go ahead. This visit had an existential feel to it as far as our on-hold relationship was concerned.

we practise this until word-perfect: “Eiryl, ‘dwi ddim yn siarad Cymraeg, ‘dwi’n dod o Leeds yn Swydd Efrog yn wreiddiol.” (“Eiryl, I don’t speak Welsh, I come from Leeds in Yorkshire originally.”)

Friday night arrived and we set out from Cambridge for South Wales. I remember thinking that going crosscountry via Northampton would be both tiresome and tiring, while the journey down the M11 onto the M25 to the M4 was just tiring. So we sailed along in my rusty old Vauxhall Chevette, with its designer holes in the foot-well throwing up water from the rain-sodden autobahn, the engine groaning with the effort of maintaining a steady sixty mph. And, as if we recognised that this visit to my parents could go horribly wrong, once we’d exchanged verbal small talk, an uneasy silence descended upon us.

We arrive at Kidwelly. Clutching the puppy we stand in the porch and ring the front-door bell. The door opens to a brightly-lit hallway, where stands a vivacious Welsh mother, eyes brightly-lit from within, a big smile on her lips. She looks Miss Yorkshire up and down...

Mam never learned to think in English. Welsh was her first language. Indeed, it was her only language until adulthood. She spent her whole life thinking in Welsh and more or less accurately translating speech and meaning in her head from Welsh to English or vice versa. I realised that the meeting of a very Welsh mam with a very Yorkshire date had some comic potential.

Me: “I bet I can tell you what mam’s first words to you will be. There’ll be something about how pretty you are and she’ll offer you food; she’ll talk in very fast Welsh because she’ll be so excited. Let me teach you some Welsh so that you can get a word in edgewise.” So

Mam, speaking very fast: “’Na dwt wyt ti! A mor deg!

‘Sdim byd ohonot ti, dewch i fewn, wnau bwyd it ti; sglods!” (Rough translation: “There’s wee you are! And so pretty! There’s nothing of you, come in, come in, I’ll make you some food; chips!”)

Nikki: “Eiryl, ‘dwi ddim yn siarad Cymraeg, ‘dwi’n dod o Leeds yn Swydd Efrog yn wreiddiol.”

Mam, laughing at the incongruity of Nikki’s words: “Oh I’m so sorry! Do please excuse me! Come in come in, let’s eat and have a cup of tea.” Looks at bitch puppy: “He’s a big one.”

The weekend went well though, so much so that we hooked up and Miss Yorkshire became The Boss. By the next time we visit I have taught The Boss to say, in Welsh, apropos the puppy: “Eiryl, mae e ddim yn ci; mae hi’n gast!” (‘Eiryl, he’s not a dog, she’s a bitch!”)

Which sets mam off laughing once again.

CARDIFF TIMES 7

HEALTH

YOU & YOUR HEALTH THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING HEARING TESTS BY VINEY HEARING CARE

THE LAST 12 MONTHS HAS REALLY SHOWED US HOW IMPORTANT COMMUNICATION IS WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS, ESPECIALLY WHEN WE HAVE BEEN FORCED TO BE APART. FOR THOSE SUFFERING WITH HEARING LOSS, THIS HAS BEEN A VERY LONELY AND ISOLATING TIME.

O

ur hearing is a very important sense. It allows us to communicate with loved ones, appreciate our favourite sounds and process the world around us. Your ears and brain work together to provide a soundscape of every environment, even when you’re asleep. Your ears collect the sound but it’s your brains job to interpret it.

If our hearing changes then our ears aren’t collecting all the sound that our brain needs to work properly.

Do you have a regular hearing test?

Hearing loss is a major public health issue, it is the third most common physical condition after arthritis and heart disease and currently there are more than 10 million people in the UK with some form of hearing loss. However, because hearing deterioration can be gradual it takes the average person 10 years to recognise that they have a problem and finally do something about it. This time lapse can have some severe health and social consequences.

Gradual hearing loss can affect people of all ages and depending on the cause, it can be mild to severe, temporary or permanent. There are many causes of hearing loss such as our genetics, aging, noise exposure, medications, illness, viruses (including COVID) and many more. The most common form of hearing loss is Presbiacusis and it relates to aging.

What are the effects of hearing loss?

When hearing deteriorates, understanding speech becomes difficult. We lose clarity, voices become muffled and we can begin to muddle the beginning and ends of words. We might then start to make mistakes, get the wrong end

8 CARDIFF TIMES

of the stick or ask people to repeat themselves. It can become difficult to hear in restaurants, work, meetings, social situations, watching television.

This can cause frustration, upset and reluctance to socialise in those ‘difficult’ environments.

But if hearing loss is caught early on there is a lot we can do to eradicate these problems, the longer its ignored the more difficult this becomes.

Treating hearing loss will not only help you to hear better but it also helps with balance, the ability to tell which direction sounds are coming from, short term memory processing and the icing on the cake - it helps to slow the deterioration preventing cognitive changes.

We get our eyes and teeth checked on a regular basis to flag up any underlying issues, we need to add hearing to that maintenance list.

NEW AT VINEY HEARING...

We need YOU! We are looking for 20 volunteers to trial a new innovative invisible hearing device proven to mimic the way our brain naturally hears.

More TM is the world’s first hearing aid to give the brain the full perspective. This is thanks to a breakthrough in hearing aid technology like nothing before.

The trial will include full audiometric testing, FREE microsuction wax removal, aid calibration and progressive monitoring to review the hearing performance. If you decide following the trial to keep the instruments there will be a 10% discount off the cost as a thank you for taking part.

Most types of hearing loss can be corrected with the use of hearing aids.

Hearing aids should, put simply, help you to hear all you need, and comfortably. We understand that it is essential to give your brain as much sound information as possible in order to hear properly, research has demonstrated that the brain needs access to a full sound scene in order to focus and hear clearly. By helping the brain to process sound in the most natural way, we will better help reduce the health and life problems associated with untreated hearing loss.

We need to do a better job of looking after our hearing, and in turn keep our brains and balance healthy. It takes less than an hour to assess your hearing health.

If you would like to arrange a free hearing assessment, please call Viney Hearing: Swansea 01792 204886, Cardiff 02920 250121.

Recommend a friend reward If you feel any of your friends or family would benefit from our help, we have a ‘recommend a friend’ reward.

When they choose to have hearing aids with us you both get a choice of the following: • A FREE year’s supply of hearing aid batteries (2 boxes) • £30 Marks & Spencer’s vouchers • £30 donated to a charity of your choice.

The South Wales Magazine 49

CARDIFF TIMES 9

“And another thing...”

Drink!

Drink!

No, not a quote from Father Jack Hackett of Father Ted fame but an equ ecumenical subject for this month. I am a huge fan of Brains Beers (othe course available). I was first introduced to Brains Dark by my Father at t (for clarity, I was 16 and not my Father).

No, not a quote from Father Jack Hackett of Father Ted fame but an equally important non-ecumenical subject for this month. I am a huge fan of Brains Beers (other beers are of course available). I was first introduced to Brains Dark by my Father at the tender age of 16 (for clarity, I was 16 and not my Father).

I had my first pint of it with my mates in the Taff Vale pub which stood on the corner of Queen Street and Paradise Place. It cost 17 pence a pint. Sat in the bar with the old-timers (it was 19 pence in the snug) and listening to their Cardiff stories of yesteryear.

Fast forward to last weekend when I fancied a change to my liberal lockdown libations, (a bit of alliteration there), I purchased 4 bottles of Brains Dark (at £1.70 a pop, that’s inflation for you). The taste was excellent as always but then I read the label.

Remember, this was not some rare and heady wine from exotic climes, but it was described thusly: “Chocolate malts help create this treaclecoloured beer with hints of liquorice and freshly ground coffee.” Oh please. I found myself wondering what the ghosts in the Taff Vale might have said about this. I am sure they would have proffered a number of helpful suggestions about where to insert those chocolate malts.

Once upon a time I was on a night out in Cardiff with my pals. You will see, there is a theme emerging here. It was Easter and there were a number of English rugby teams floating about on their annual tours to Wales. We were in Caroline Street when one of the teams was called to order by their Captain and told to pair off. This they dutifully did, walked into a chip shop, bought 10 CARDIFF TIMES

ByVince Nolan

I had my my mates which sto Queen St Place. It Sat in the timers (it snug) and Cardiff st Fast forw when I fa my libera (a bit of a purchase Dark (at £ a steaming hotThemeat andexcellent gravy as pie each inflation for you). taste was always butand then I read the this wasup. not On somethe rareword and heady wine from exotic climes, but it was de lined of command, each

pair in turn was back-to-back thewith hints of liqu “Chocolate malts helpplaced create this treacle-colouredin beer road toldOhtoplease. march 10 paces.

This they groundand coffee.”

I found myself wondering what the ghosts i mightThey have said about this. told I am sure they and wouldfire. have proffered a numb did. were then to turn suggestions where tomolten insert those chocolate They thenabout launched meat and malts. gravy hard-crust pastry other.

Once upon a time I was bombs on a nightat outeach in Cardiff with my pals. You will s emerging here. It was Easter there were a number Hysterically funny but and anyone hit in the of English rugby about on their annualhave tours to Wales. We were in Caroline Street when crossfire would suffered third-degree was called to order by their Captain and told to pair off. This they dutifu burns.

As for the poor street cleaners………. a chip shop, bought a steaming hot meat and gravy pie each and lined u

command, with each pair in turn was placed back-to-back in the road and tol Staying duels, I read about an This they did. They were then told to turn and fire. They then launched alternative ending to Peter Pan where gravy hard-crust pastry bombs at each other.

Hysterically funny but any Captain Hook wins thethird-degree duel and burns. sendsAsPeter crossfire would have suffered for the poor street Pan back to London in a body bag. Not very Staying with duels, I read about an alternative ending to Peter Pan wher funny quitePeter dark, story, which the dueland and sends Pan for backatokids’ London in a body bag. Not very fu is requires dead Pan delivery. forwhy a kids’itstory, which isawhy it requires a dead Pan delivery.

Back olden it was toa do Back in in olden timestimes it was the thing the to dothing to go on brewery tour. This to a brewery tour.

This a freethe trip seego the on brewing process (yeh right) andwas then sample produce in the couple hours afterwards, usually accompanied a buffet. I had orga to seeofthe brewing process (yeh right)byand on St. Mary Street (other breweries were also available). We met in The then sample the produce in the taproom for a couple of hours afterwards, usually accompanied by a buffet. I had organised one to Brains on St. Mary Street (other breweries were also available). We met in The Albert (now The Yard) to ensure that we had properly warmed up since we didn’t want to pull any drinking muscles.

Unfortunately, only six of us turned up

visit 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 Staying with hunting, if I were illegally hunting for from President Andrew Jackson andthe days’ the factory, one of the team would read out aforementioned ones from the Taff Vale) and asked them whether they fancied having a e.mushrooms, It could (meaty urologist, oh please yourselves). would I have questionable morels? and others would buttSupreme in with constant was executed after Court brewery tour and free beer for the afternoon. Fearingnews some kind of the honey trap, they took the styAlso, given how The Leadertoof the Opposition and I weredebate.” sitting in With what doconvincing you call that a deer whowas hasgenuine. lost both some my offer Cautiously, they agreed join us.

Picture the interruptions and a stream of “furious ruled he could turn it down if he wanted scene, 5pm on a sunny y eyes a spooky ourinsocially local, The Funky Furlough, in a hunting accident? No eye deer. this mind Idistanced have collated some quality put-downs to.

No pleasing some folk. weekday evening at theyou side had How long have arthritis?”

“I don’t whencomics a lady close byused to usto asked the Barmodern Manager I have ess wasdecided that when Trump dies, I will give which have deal with day entrance the Brewery on have to arthritis, Father,” the drunk said, “but I if the toilets were still upstairs.

He of course hiswas eulogy.

IYard) will the say: “He is today how he was as hecklers: Caroline Street where four ch exactly time it tried to to ensure that we had properly warmed upjust since weindidn’t want to pullthe anyPope drinking read the paper that does.”

Continuingconfipensioners who could barely rmed that they were but I were thought this to be a make-up lying muscles. only sixinoffront us turned up and a minimum of ten required or the yPresident……….wearing maker. I drank theUnfortunately, other three and “What size shoe does mouth take?” stand wereof seen hanging ontoyour Staying with 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 thefor barsupport, (couldrather have been the safety reasons. a lamppost, been much snobbery attached toknow wine. like: “I don’t I was recently asked by the son of from a good theme: “This is what comes drinking on an empty aforementioned ones thefriend Taff Vale) and asked them whether they fancied having a than illumination.

An from 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 his Dad’s head.” brewery tour and freeforbeer forSoap the afternoon.

Fearing some kind of honey trap, they took on but I am making a stand because of the nt trip to are mysome local on offer aeulogy Friday atfuneral. there only 3supermarket shops I that really never…… remember. but wethe I didn’t have the heart to say convincing my genuine. Cautiously, they agreed tolast joinwith us.usPicture awas rope lockdowns.

I’m giving up wine, everyhanding day, all “I know where you were when they were almost no perishables that would make the adbut aSpecsavers, great Zoom call with Mark Dacey (on the leS) who is the dynamic CEO of wn: Boots and scene, 5pm on a sunny moved them out to I knew what he meant. Anyway, here is A drunk who smelled like that’s a Pope on a month.

No wait, not it.

I’m giving the brains out………getting an extra helping ofup.

Monday.

In fact I had some doubt whether Talbot Colleges. does not need me to suggest the uncanny st specs andofdrugs and Itsausage weekday evening at the side brewery got on a bus and sat the car park many what IGroup wrote: Wine every day all month! mouth.” de make it to the car for the journey home. rope down next to a priest.

The he favourite has tobut actor Ricky Tomlinson or of vice versa. entrance to the Brewery bout you, I have had months ago as aon My Mike tale, (heenough was affectionately oing on because it’s nothing to do with EU drunk's shirt was stained, hisa first date. “Do you Two people out on Caroline Street where four you know, youred wore direct soundproof trousers no consequence known as Gaddafi because his likeness key.

We don’t have to home school face was full of if bright ve wriKen about sell-buy dates before but a recent trip“Do to my local supermarket ues?

Closer inspection of of the packaging like Merlot Tammy?”

“Yes, but you don’t pensioners who could barely I once owned one of the chewed pencils which one would hear a word you’re saying.” lipstick and he had a halfof Covid19.”

Perhaps to the former Libyan leader), involved a trip but whenalmost highlight of the revealed no perishables Monday.

Instand fact Iwere countries ofthe origin for fruit andthat vegwould like make the following pronounce the “t.”

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

WecarShakespeare Argentina.

So these comestibles oubt 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 of skill to supply goods eand car for an MOT then it’s serious, real face or are you still out ofyour his pocket.

He opened waiter: “Two Merlots mesupport, and celebrating Ammy.” a 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 ated in exotic picked, it’swent nothing toaclimes, do with supply issues?

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

Andog Daisy Our friend Drthe H has trained her reading.

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

A in wife sent her a port French side and played themaround home and 2B not 2B. Staying with Bard, days gone he or airport, distributed UK untries ofthe origin for fruit and veg like Tanzania and Argen@na.

So these Staying with food, I have been doing some research into what is by, no longer manufacture 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 andof red wine. to bring her alcohol, a No surprise “Your bus leaves inbottle 10 minutes...

Be under it.” husband aquote romantic away ondelivered French international weekends.

On es then to the shops and put on in order to attract women, I used to use this from Smar@es (Can the UK. The list is endless but here is a small sample: Pringles (Belgium), who were in the bar (could have been the sout areskew-whiff? cul@vated in exo@c climes, picked, packaged, taken to the port or airport, contempt for your fellow man," the priest replied.

"Imagine that," the drunk muttered.

He never…… remember. really, she’s a Bordeaux collie.

I was sat A phrase we text message.

She wrote: “Ifhim.. you are sleeping, send particular trip (Mike’s fiones rst), we didpriest, it in Taff the esthis with one day left on the sell-buy date.

It Vale) Colman’s English Mustard (Act Germany), Terrys Chocolate (France) returned to reading his paper.

The thinking what had said, turned tofor the aforementioned from the “Well, it’s aShe night out and aOrange night off forand hisHP (House Shakespeare’s Hamlet, III, Scene line 82: around UK warehouses then delivered to the shopsabout and put he on the shelves with with Who Must Be IV, Obeyed the other tly, it comes from the 18th Century Parliament) Sauce (The Netherlands).

Staggering. man and apologised: "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to come on so strong.

How long have you had nordinate amount of skill to supply goods me your dreams.

If you are laughing, send me your old-fashioned way, a bus to Dover, ferry crossing and asked them whether they fancied family.” day whilst she A drunk who smelled like a sipped a glass of wine arthritis?"

"Ito don't have arthritis, Father," the drunk said,smile. "but I just readare in the paper that me me” with spare.

Waste levels hen something not straight was If you eating, send a bite.

If and you are and then24 onhours to Paris.

I was sitting next to him.

AtHere’s one for you: “Knock knock.”

“Who’s there?”

“LiKle old lady.” having a brewery tour and free beer for the brewery got on a bus sat “LiKle old lady wh and she said, “I love you so much, you the Pope does."

“Hello.”

“Idrinking, need like Van Gogh needed stereo.” stronomical.

“I had no idea youyou could yodel.” send me a sip.

If you are crying, send me Dover, aafternoon. uniformed Officer cameofonto Fearing some honey trap, weft (from the warpCustoms and weft).

Ofkind a priest.

Thelive know.a Icourt don’tdown knownext howtoI could ever Imy was reading about case where thetexted accused Staying with the drink, there has always been they took some convincing that offer was your tears.

I love you.”

Her husband back: “ as our bus and said: “Just hold up your passports drunk's shirt was stained, his I am a man of awithout certain so my doesorwork aswine well it used to not confused related you.”

Itolerance said, “Isthreshold that you the I walked intoageour local bar, The Moaning Monet and withbe food, I havewith beenthe doing some research much snobbery attached they to wine.

Indeed, was described as “having murderous intent.”

I was genuine.

Cautiously, agreed to join us. par@cularly when being asked to embrace new technology.

I was therefore heartened I’m in the toilet, please advise.” guys and I will come along and count them and face was full of bright red talking?”

She said, “It’s me talking to the saw Van Gogh sitting at the end on a bar stool.

I up, I had to). is no longer manufactured init,the The a people make a living from but UK. I am making Picture the scene, 5pm on a sunny weekday She Who Must Be Obeyed suggested I download a new app called What3Words.

This i quite disappointed to learn that this had nothing to do and he had a halfyou.”

Mike me and said “I Pringles knowup shoutedwine.”

“Hey Vincelipstick do you want a drink?” stand because of the lockdowns.

I’m giving ess but here is a to small sample: eighbour ofturned ours, let’s call her Drdidn’t naviga@on aid which divides the World into 3 metre squares and gives each square a un evening at the side entrance to the Brewery empty bottlethe of wine wine, day, all month.

NoEnglish wait, not Happy New Year Dear Reader, Year sticking of the we needed a every passport and I haven’t got that’s one.”

I camping. with , Smarties (Canada), Colman’s combina@on ofFinally, three words.

I s@ll“No drivethanks, about a lot for business, it or not and I a blessing for the drink: God, believe ingot his one me, is walking out with Dr every Rwhere who onI’m Caroline four pensioners He shouted back: I’ve already giving up.Street Wine day all month! out of his pocket.

He opened Ox. Apparently this year is going to be lucky said “oh it. spiffi ng” orChocolate words to that effect.

Then, inassured a Germany), Terrys Orange that this system would be much more accurate than using our sat nav. I used i goodness, sent the grapes, to cheer both who could barely stand were seen hanging ear.”news, my friendhis and radio presenting.

We recently Finally, sad David has lost ID. I was looking for was “Y newspaper andhis started Two peopleofof out a first date.

“Do you like the Ox and representing diligence, persistence scene aon World War 2 prisoner of war and HP reminiscent (Houses Parliament) Sauce (The the firstwith @me the other day and the unique three word loca@on great small.

Little fools will drink too onto aTammy?” for support, rather than Merlot “Yes, but don’t pronounce reading.

A couple ofyou minutes later, the priest, "Father, what causes arthritis?" ntescape door where alamppost, note wasdown pinned.

Nowhe heasked isAdios just Dav. Are Lost!”

Design fault and or user error? and honesty.

Not for going be Trump’s year story, Mike ducked into the footwell ds).

Staggering.

Amigos much great foolsto none at all. My round. illumination.

An afternoon they would the "Mister, “t.”

“Oh, Ok.” Looks at waiter: “Twobeing with cheap, it's caused by loose living, wicked women, too much alcohol, and e next parcel at foot of door.

Live Radio then is it? to me and I piled his coat and mine on top of Merlots for meremember. and Ammy.”

Hasta La Vista Chums never…… ne for you: contempt “Knock knock.”

“Who’sman," there?” for your fellow the priest replied. "Imagine that," the drunk muttered. He Recorded.”

Not toDrto be outdone we him. I told him not move, whilst we were both Ta Our friend H has trained her dog Daisy to bring her a bottle of redabout wine. No surprise lady.” “Little old lady who?”

“I had no idea returned to reading his paper.

The priest, thinking what he had said, turned to the A drunk who smelled like a brewery got reducedthe to laughing uncontrollably.

ThesatCustoms penned following note:collie.

“Please really, she’s a Bordeaux I was with She Who Must Be Obeyed the other day whilst of yodel.” apologised: I didn't mean to come on so strong. How long have you had on man a busand and sat down"I'm nextsorry, to a priest. guy walked the bus, did the count, missed Mike "I don't arthritis, Father," the drunk said, "but I just read in the paper that Thearthritis?" drunk’s shirt washave stained, his face man of a certain age so my tolerance wasthe fullPope of bright does."red lipstick and he had does not work as well as it used to a half-empty bottle of wine sticking out of y when being asked to embrace new his Staying pocket.with He opened histhere newspaper and been the drink, has always y. I was therefore heartened whenofShe started A couple minutes later,Indeed, muchreading. snobbery attached to wine. t Be Obeyed suggested I download awhat newcauses he people asked the priest, “Father, make a living from it, but I am making a d What3Words.

This is a navigation aid arthritis?”

“Mister,ofit’sthe caused by loose stand because lockdowns.

I’mliving, giving up des the World into 3 metrewicked squares and too much being with cheap, women, wine, every day, all month.

No wait, that’s not h squarealcohol, a unique combination of your threefellow man,” contempt for it. I’mand giving up. Wine every day all month! till drive about a lotreplied. for business, believe it drunk the priest “Imagine that,” the d I was assured system behis“Do Two that people out on atowould first date. you like muttered.

Hethis returned reading paper. e accurate than using our sat nav.

I used ithadpronounce youhe don’t TheMerlot priest,Tammy?” thinking “Yes, aboutbut what said, the to “t.”the man “Oh, and Ok.”apologised: Looks at “I’m waiter: “Two turned Merlots formean me and sorry, I didn’t toAmmy.” come on so strong.

Our friend Dr H has trained her dog intolerance, Daisy to bring hertoabelieve bottlethat of the redterm wine.

Nooriginated surprisefrom CARDIFF TIMES 11 I am led heckler the tex@le trade, really, she’s a Bordeaux collie. I waswhere sat with She Who Must Be Obeyed the other day The whilst to heckle was to tease or comb-out flax or hemp fibres. modern meaning w

coined in Dundee in the early 19th century. As the hecklers toiled in the factory, one of

BARS OF DISTINCTION The Gin Tin Bars offer a premium mobile bar service for both indoor and outdoor events.

WE OFFER A LOCAL CARDIFF COCKTAIL DELIVERY SERVICE

Our professional staff will work with you to provide the perfect bar for your perfect day.

We offer Gin and Rum Tastings of award winning Welsh Spirits both live and online.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Call 07766 724495

@thegintinbar

There’s not just gin in our tin.

We are fully licensed

www.thegintinbar.co.uk • thegintin@hotmail.com

CT|Sponsored Feature

Care Home Ready to Welcome Back Visitors as Residents Receive Second Jab Staff at a Cardiff care home are looking ahead with a spring in their step after all its eligible residents received their second dose of the Covid-19 vaccine.

NHS staff visited Tŷ Llandaff, an ‘allinclusive’, residential, nursing, palliative and respite care home in Pontcanna, this week to administer follow-up jabs of the Oxford/AstraZeneca jab.

Care home residents have been able to be visited indoors by a single named individual since March 13 as part of the Welsh Government’s package of measures to ease restrictions. Visits in Tŷ Llandaff’s pod will be able to continue which means residents can see more than the one person they nominate at the home.

Tŷ Llandaff service manager Lisa Cristina said staff were looking forward to meeting relatives of new residents who have not yet been able to visit the home.

All visits have to be pre-arranged, and visitors are required to take a lateral flow test before entry and must wear PPE. Mrs Cristina said all public health guidelines will continue to be followed at the home in Conway Road in line with the current Alert Level 4 in Wales.

Tŷ Llandaff was one of the first care homes in Cardiff to close its doors to visitors last Spring when the coronavirus outbreak started before the first national lockdown was introduced. The home did so in order to create a ‘cocooning environment’ for its residents and keep those in their care safe.

Mrs Cristina said: ‘We’re delighted that every eligible resident at Tŷ Llandaff as had both doses of the vaccine and I’d like to thank the NHS staff who came in and inoculated everyone this week.

“We really cannot wait to be able to welcome more visitors back, it really is so important to the health

and wellbeing of our residents that they are able to see the people they love.

“Of course, some of our newer residents who have joined us have been unable to see family members face to face, so it will be wonderful to meet some of the relatives – some of which we have heard so much about already.

“It was lovely to see a bit of Spring sunshine this week and I know our residents are really looking forward to enjoying more sunny days outside with a nice cup of coffee. I also want to thank all the wonderful care staff at Tŷ Llandaff who are so hard working, thoughtful and always put the residents first.”

Tŷ Llandaff opened in 2017 and was named in the Top 20 Recommended Care Homes in Wales by a UK care home website carehome.co.uk after less than six months of opening. It has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 on leading care home review website, carehome.co.uk For more information about Tŷ Llandaff call 02920 600 100, email info@tyllandaffcare.com or visit www.tyllandaffcare.com CARDIFF TIMES 13

Improve your child’s study skills: stery, Confidence, Ma Success.

Kumon’s Maths and English study programmes work to improve your child’s skills, develop their confidence and inspire a passion for learning. ** In-class or online lessons available ** To unlock your child’s potential, contact us now for a free assessment: * Cardiff, Grangetown Study Centre Anouska Leckie 07539 468 030 * Cardiff, Rumney Study Centre Jonathan Williams (029) 2050 9010 Online: kumon.co.uk/cardiff-grangetown

kumon.co.uk/cardiff-rumney

CT|Sponsored Feature

It’s been a particularly difficult 12-months for new parents,

Government, encourages new

with many facing additional pressures on top of what can

parents to take their cues from

already be a very demanding time. Lockdown restrictions

their baby, reacting to what they’re

have meant that opportunities for social interaction with

doing by:

family and friends have been limited, as well as baby groups

• Looking at what their baby is

and soft play centres remaining closed. Understandably,

focusing on and how they react

many new parents have felt isolated and increasingly worried

• Saying what they’re doing and

about the long-term impact restrictions may have on their

copy the sounds their baby makes

child’s development.

• Singing along to their

It is a concern shared by early years practitioners, which is why a new baby brain building campaign is being welcomed

favourite tune • Playing simple games and see what their baby enjoys

across Cardiff and the Vale - providing parents with simple

They might sound like obvious activities, but the science

ways to create and strengthen bonds with their baby. Look

behind these games and interactions help parents and

Say Sing Play is designed to give parents of children under

children bond while also improving the child’s mind. It might

the age of two tips and activities to help them support their

not always be easy for parents, and it might not always

child’s development.

come naturally, but these every day interactions can really

It’s being launched by NSPCC Cymru/Wales in partnership with Cardiff Council, Vale of Glamorgan Council, Cardiff & Vale University Health Board, and Mudiad Meithrin.

Brain-building happens whenever parents and their little ones interact and this campaign, in partnership with Welsh

help families bond. It’s why professionals who support new parents in Cardiff and the Vale will be looking at ways to integrate the Look Say Sing Play approach into their work - helping parents feel more confident interacting with their babies.

We know from NSPCC research that parents aren’t always aware of the important role quality engagement with their baby can have on the social, emotional and cognitive development of their child. Early, positive interactions can also help prevent abuse and neglect happening as children grow older. Look Say Sing Play highlights the brain-building benefits that everyday moments such as singing and playing with your child can have, but also the fun that can be had with daily activities.

Together, NSPCC Cymru/Wales and local partners will be sharing resources and information with families, supporting them to create more purposeful, deliberate and rewarding interactions that can build their babies brain and enhance early attachment.

To get weekly tips, parents can also sign up to an email from the charity via the bilingual campaign page on the NSPCC website. Each one will include a fun, age-appropriate tip that they can easily fit in to their daily routine.

For more information about Look Say Sing Play contact emma.motherwell@nspcc.org.uk or visit nspcc.org.uk/brain-building.

CARDIFF TIMES 15

I Protest, Therefore I Am

By Jen Abell

Entrenching my feet in the circle drawn by my bank, I hear two strangers discussing how ‘awful’ it is that we have to queue. That there’s one cashier. That the machines are slow. The ‘awful’ queuing becomes the ‘awful’ protesting seen on the news by one half of the conversation. The Bristol protest that was peaceful, until it wasn’t. Protesters were battoned over the head, police vans set on fire, bystanders’ eyes burned with police pepper and police station glass was smashed. Parts of the last sentence were mentioned. Deafening in its omission was any mention of the Kill The Bill movement or the motivation for protesting. Those clecsers have inspired me to highlight why protesters generally, aren’t ‘awful’, and why I protest, therefore I am.

To be clear, no one wants to protest. Did I want to give an evening to protest Trump’s visit to the UK? No. Did I have to on grounds of his blatant sexism, renegading on international agreements and attacks on Muslims and migrants? Yes. And we all know how his tenure evolved; the man’s not safe to operate a Twitter account.

As a person with Raynaud’s disease, did I want to stand in the snow for February’s candlelit vigil for Mohamud Mohammed Hassan? Honestly? No. Especially not with a sick cat at home. But I had to. For the safety of people living in and passing through Cardiff. It’s important to use our physical presence as a peaceful request to openly, truly independently investigate the unexplained death of a young man with signs of violence on his body. Especially when that death is immediately after release from police custody.

Insisting upon footage release was reasonable, and the least we could do for Mohamud’s family.

I’ll be honest, it hurt. Raynaud’s disease means my arteries narrow and blood can’t flow around my body as it should.

It’s not life-threatening, but it is limiting. That night, the cold bit until my feet stopped responding to straightforward requests from my mind. I honestly didn’t know if I would make it home. And it was still the right thing to do.

There are plenty of things protesters would prefer to do than demonstrate. The majority don’t oppose the bill because they like a riot. They oppose it because of the

16 CARDIFF TIMES

times we live in; times of discrimination, inequality, climate crisis. The people who decide our fates don’t know our worlds, aren’t representing minorities and don’t know what it’s like to go to a friend’s house when you want hot water and can’t top up your gas card.

Part of the bill in question means noise and time limits on static protests. Oh, well, even protesters like a start and end time to demonstrations, right? Generally, yes.

Always? No. It would mean groups like Extinction Rebellion couldn’t stage interventions to protect you, your friends, your city. In May, Natural Resources Wales will release a new flood map for Cardiff. We’ve always had a map that represents sea flooding, never river flooding. Until now.

Certainly, never with projections we’re likely to see given our increasing understanding of global warming. You’ll be able to spot your home, business, allotment and favourite landmarks on this map. For all the wrong reasons. The Grangetown whale is celebrated as a beautiful way to illustrate this. Whilst it’s a shame it highlights problems without offering solutions if it helps one person understand flood risk, great. But it’s not enough to highlight the magnitude of the problem we have as a coastal city ranked 6th of 85 cities across the world to be impacted by sea-level rise. You and I saving our rainwater, composting

our food waste and eating plant-based diets isn’t enough to protect Cardiff from a future underwater. We need policymakers. And they’re not listening. That’s why we must protect the legal right we have to object and to help decision-makers see our points of view. Yes, Extinction Rebellion is inconvenient. Yup, it makes it difficult to get to work sometimes. But as having a city and a planet is a prerequisite to complaining, I’m with them, and protecting their democratic right to object.

Our political system doesn’t allow communities to selfdetermine, which is why we must be able to communicate our wishes. Our means of correspondence must not be eroded. If you’re not mobile or your Raynaud’s disease is worse than mine, you don’t have to stand on the street. Like Phillips’ letter, there are many ways you can communicate. I know, I know, it takes time. When I think I don’t have any, one look at my weekly screen time report tells me I need to direct my attention more productively.

Advocacy takes many forms, like ‘Covid safe’ cyber protests seen recently. The food hamper scandal wouldn’t have ended without Jack Monroe using Twitter to stir the stomping of virtual feet on the virtual street. Cronyism quite literally stealing food from babes’ mouths was the limit.

Good. It should be. Where did the Twitter storm get us?

Back to food vouchers, allowing parents and caregivers to buy entire vegetables for their family instead of receiving quarter portions from government contract holders. Do I need to talk about Marcus Rashford here? We live in a world where an actual movement has to be started to minimise food poverty. Until there are limitations on statesanctioned poverty, I don’t want state-sanctioned limits on protest. America hasn’t tried to restrict protests following an openly antisemitic, white supremacist siege of their congress. An actual siege. How can the UK government justify this bill? What is going on here? 81-year-old lifelong labour supporter Adrian Phillips’ viral open letter to Keir Starmer describes this as ‘a deliberate and sustained assault on many of our tolerant traditions and democratic ways of working’. His letter is a protest. Protest comes in many forms and protest is another word for communication.

Trust me when I say; protesters are your friends. We all need checks and balances in any line of work we do.

For decision-makers, there is the 4- or 5-year vote cycle to tell them how constituents feel. Between terms, what have we got? Self-advocacy. Campaigning. Protesting.

Communicating. They all come under the same umbrella.

Governments aren’t all-knowing. Representatives require our help to know what we need, how we need it and when we object to their decisions. They don’t live our lives.

I don’t want to protest for my rights. I don’t want to protest for your rights. I don’t want to protest for my right to protest.

But I will. Because you’re important to me. Where I live is important to me. Politicians pretending they aspire to notions of equality is important to me. Yes, we all have other things to do but to quote the ever-inspirational Jack Monroe ‘I just wake up, look at the news and I get angry’.

You should, too. @ffotojenic

CARDIFF TIMES 17

02921 660311 colourfencecardiff.co.uk

Luxury is the name for Newport private chauffer start-up Luxstar “I had been researching setting up my own business for a number of years. The rapports I had gained with people over the years, the knowledge taken from the clients I had driven, and the trust I was given led me on to explore opportunities to start my own chauffeur business. Faced with redundancy because of the Covid-19 pandemic, I decided it was time to take the plunge and become my own boss,” - Carl Harris, Founder of Luxstar Ltd Newport entrepreneur Carl Harris launched private chauffer business Luxstar Ltd with the backing of a £24,000 micro loan from the Development Bank of Wales in November 2020. He also received support from Business Wales, Newport Council and USKE. Faced with redundancy due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Carl seized the opportunity to turn his experience and passion into his own business. With eight years professional driving experience, Carl had worked with the American Embassy providing services to congress, NATO, the US Coastguard, presidents and former presidents.

forecast for your first year, and up-to-date management information. Business Wales can help you pull this information together for free.

With a business plan in place, Carl was able to secure start-up finance and buy a suitable high-end chauffeur vehicle.

Start-up loans from the Development Bank of Wales can be used to buy work vehicles, computers, and other essential equipment. You could also use a loan to help pay rent on a new shop or office, buy in stock, or to support your cash-flow in your first few months of trading.

To find out more or to apply for start-up finance please visit - https://developmentbank.wales/get-businessfinance/starting-business

Carl’s first challenge was coming up with a robust business plan. He had a lot of knowledge of working in the transportation industry but no experience in running his own company. With the support of Business Wales, he conducted market research and then included all his findings in a business plan before applying for a micro loan from the Development Bank.

To apply for a start-up loan from the Development Bank of Wales, you’ll need to provide a business plan, a cash-flow

Ein busnes ni yw helpu ariannu'ch busnes chi.

It's our business to help finance yours.

Apply now: Banc Datblygu Cymru ccc (Development Bank of Wales Plc) yw cwmni daliannol Grŵp sy'n masnachu fel Banc Datblygu Cymru. Mae'r Grŵp yn cynnwys nifer o is-gwmnïau sydd wedi'u cofrestru gydag enwau gan gynnwys llythrennau cychwynnol yr enw BDC. Mae Banc Datblygu Cymru ccc yn gwmni cyllid datblygu sy'n eiddo yn gyfan gwbl i Weinidogion Cymru ac nid yw'n cael ei awdurdodi na'i reoleiddio gan yr Awdurdod Rheoleiddio Darbodus (ARhD) na'r Awdurdod Ymddygiad Ariannol (AYA). Mae gan Fanc Datblygu Cymru (Banc Datblygu Cymru ccc) dri is-gwmni sy'n cael eu hawdurdodi a'u rheoleiddio gan yr AYA. Sylwer nad yw Banc Datblygu Cymru ccc nac unrhyw un o'i is-gwmnïau yn sefydliadau bancio ac nid ydynt yn gweithredu fel y cyfryw. Mae hyn yn golygu na fydd unrhyw un o endidau'r grŵp yn gallu derbyn dyddodion gan y cyhoedd. Mae siart strwythur cyfreithiol cyflawn ar gyfer Banc Datblygu Cymru ccc ar gael yn bancdatblygu.cymru.

Development Bank of Wales Plc (Banc Datblygu Cymru ccc) is the holding company of a Group that trades as Development Bank of Wales. The Group is made up of a number of subsidiaries which are registered with names including the initials DBW. Development Bank of Wales Plc is a development finance company wholly owned by the Welsh Ministers and it is neither authorised nor regulated by the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) or the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The Development Bank of Wales has three subsidiaries which are authorised and regulated by the FCA. Please note that neither the Development Bank of Wales Plc nor any of its subsidiaries are banking institutions or operate as such. This means that none of the group entities are able to accept deposits from the public. A complete legal structure chart for Development Bank of Wales Plc can be found at developmentbank.wales.

CARDIFF TIMES 19



 

VALERIE SANDERS Virtual Assistant providing administrative support

        

      

      



Tel: 029 2021 3743 Mobile: 07908 755859 Email: valeriesanders591@gmail.com

S���i�e� •

SECRETARIAL SUPPORT

•

EMAIL MANAGEMENT

•

BOOKING/FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENTS WITH CLIENTS/

LANDSCAPES

CUSTOMERS •

DATABASE ENTRY

•

TRANSCRIBING

•

MARKET RESEARCH

•

EVENTS CO-ORDINATION

B���fit�  

 

20 CARDIFF TIMES

•

NO RECRUITMENT COSTS

•

NO HOLIDAY OR SICK PAY

•

NO TAX OR NI TO PAY

•

YOU PAY ONLY FOR THE TIME YOU NEED ADMIN SUPPORT

•

OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Protect your wealth

By Michael Fogg

of causing offence to some readers this is because, as Brian once memorably said, “You are all individuals”.

Passing on Ownership Because the value to a specific person cannot readily be put into a quantifiable cost:price matrix, significant thought should therefore be given on if, when, and how to pass your treasured possessions on to a new owner. If people can fall out over the impersonal (money), they’re far more likely to fall out over something which has a significant emotional value.

Therefore, consider what your treasured possessions are.

Consider what they mean to you. What motivations they provide you. Recollect, as if you could forget, the moment that they came into your life. And consider the fact that they may be able to provide benefit to others in the future.

Someone’s personal possessions, legally known as chattels, are the things which are specific to an individual. What a person owns – be it model railways, a book or magazine collection, automobilia, legally registered firearms or other – are the things which reflect the individual’s individuality.

I tend to avoid using Latin maxims if at all possible, but sometimes it is a wonderfully concise language. It’s possibly for that reason that its use has persisted in the legal profession throughout the years. In this case, one in particular springs to mind. Nemo dat quod non habet. In this case I use the phrase not in its strict legal context – a rule stating that if you buy something from a person who is not it’s legal owner, you didn’t actually buy the legal title – but as a way of framing a different thought. If you can’t give what you don’t own, does that mean that you must keep everything that you do own?

Cost vs. Value We as solicitors are not professional valuers. We rely on other professional people to provide their expert opinions on certain matters. One of these is placing a value on assets.

The ‘big ticket’ assets, such as property and vehicles, are fairly easy to value using specialist valuers. However, as things become more unusual, and the number of people who would wish to have them become smaller, the greater the requirement for specialist professional valuers.

Will Give or Sell?

Each of us has a unique perspective on life. On existence.

On order, permanence and on the tendency to entropy. But what is, I believe, a given is that many of our possessions will outlast us. A piece of jewellery acquired as part of a memorable life event. A luxury purchase. An unexpected find in a charity shop or at a car boot sale. But whether our chattels are financially valuable or worthless, this does not always reflect their emotional weight.

The Meaning of Possessions For much of the work to administer an Estate of someone who has passed, the work is quite predictable. Closure of sole bank accounts. Cashing in life policies or collecting funds in from pension plans which have not yet been drawn down from. Transferring ownership of properties (or selling them). Arranging for widows/widowers pension provisions to be set up. Selling or transferring stocks and shares.

And, as each of us carries through life our own unique perspective, we can become blinded to the fact that the items that bring us joy may not do so for all people. Therefore, we all face a quandary relating to our chattels. That our personal personality, our treasured possessions, will not possess the same emotional weight to others that they do to us. But we want them to value these items as much as we do. We may not be able to comprehend why another person does not derive the same joy that we do. And yet, of course, we can’t take it with us…?

Following a few conversations this month, both with clients and Cardiff Times readers, this month’s spotlight is on personal possessions.

However, in many cases these steps – important as they are to get right – fail to capture the essence of the person whose Estate is being administered. The person whose life, a rich tapestry of personal relationships built on mutual interests with others, should be valued in a far less quantifiable way.

So, at the core of this particular musing of mine is the following observation. Although even (formerly) close family members can fall out over money, money itself is impersonal.

Money provides a person with the opportunity to experience life in the way they choose, but it is not the thing which causes someone to live. Except, of course, where there is a terminal absence of money, or of credit. But living itself is a far more intangible matter. A far more personal matter. At risk

So, what to do? Leave specific items to people in a Will when you can no longer enjoy them? Gift items to those who you know will also treasure them, and lose the enjoyment of ownership yourself? Or sell items and give yourself the opportunity to experience life a new way? Whether financially or emotionally, such choices may be personally taxing.

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 21

In The Words Of

By Carl Marsh

MacBentley (Dakota Benjamin Taylor) can join a UK ice hockey team. Jeremias plays Bear Stelzer, the teammate of ‘Mac’, as a hockey player for the Hammers ice hockey team.

This is very similar in vein to Free Reign, made by the same production team, so it’ll be popular with the younger generation. Jeremias is such a positive and happy person to speak with, and I hope that comes across in the interview.

That is all!

I will see you next month; no doubt some normality will have come back.

May 2021

Viva la Life!

A new month, yes, it is month five of 2021, somewhat of a celebration in that bars/restaurants will be thriving outdoors (I hope), but gigs, festivals: and cinemas, well…

Carl Marsh

Without getting too political, we have the Welsh Elections in early May, and whoever you vote for, think about how private entertainment businesses have suffered over the last 15 months. Myself included.

Twitter - @InTheWordsOf_CM Facebook - @InTheWordsOf YouTube - InTheWordsOf

TV/Films Gomorrah - Sky Atlantic Perhaps the only thing I have been watching has been Gomorrah on Sky Atlantic. Set in the Neopolitan underworld in and around Napoli, it’s gripping and brutal. It’s also quite raw. I have never watched a show where you can say time after time:” I never saw that coming” - multiple times. It’s subtitled with the cast predominately speaking Neopolitan - seeing as its set in Napoli; or Italian. The fourth and latest series does come to England for one episode, which shows you how popular this show is over here. I believe it’s now showing in the US on HBO Max. And series five is due soon.

It’s as good as any crime family show or film I have seen. If you like your gritty dramas set in the real world and not pure fantasy, then this is for you. It goes without saying, this is not for anyone under 18 years of age.

Interviews In many a show, Katy Wix has been on our TV screens more recently in (and currently filming season three) Stath Lets Flats on Channel 4. She has now written a memoir of sorts. Hailing from the Vale of Glamorgan, the book is both a sad and happy compilation of what has gone on in her life, and each chapter is centred around some cake making an appearance at all moments. It’s a must-read of one of Wales best comedians and comedy writers and actresses.

My other interview is with the German actor, even though you would never guess it by his accent: Jeremias Amoore.

Starring in the Netflix coming of age, the young adult drama was set on the UK’s ice rinks - called Zero Chill. It’s about a family that moves from Canada so that their son ‘Mac’

22 CARDIFF TIMES

--Katy Wix is one of Wales best-known comedians and actresses. She is known for shows like Not Going Out, Stath Lets Flats, Ghosts, The Windsors, and even reality shows like Taskmaster. Now she’s written her first memoir (Delicacy), and I couldn’t wait to chat with her.

Carl Marsh This book is somewhat of an autobiographical novel but with a spin on it, mostly involving cake - as the front cover picture shows. There are many personal stories in it, so is it a kind of release by being cathartic for you or something else?

Katy Wix Revenge! (Laughter) Carl Marsh Yeah, well, you said it, hahaha.

Katy Wix But, I guess in answer to your question about it being cathartic. Yeah, I think it was. I’m lucky that I’ve had so much therapy, and I’ve been in treatment for a long time.

And I think that (with) a lot of this stuff, I think I wouldn’t write about it unless I’d done some work on it, and felt okay about it, and healed enough to be able to write it down.

Otherwise, I think it can become something else. It would be kind of almost just like journaling, you know, like writing in your diary. And the challenge was to still turn it into a piece of writing and something that’s thinking of the reader, so it wasn’t just a list of my gripes. One of the challenges was turning it into good writing whilst still being emotionally and reflective of what I went through.

Carl Marsh That must have been hard, as I know you’ve been through a lot recently?

Katy Wix

Katy Wix

Many of the things (that) I write about were happening at the same time as I was writing it. I lost people as I was writing it. And then, I would want to incorporate it into the book because it was happening in my real life. And sometimes, it was quite a nice distraction from going through stressful things that I got to sort of come back to my computer and pour it all out. And it was almost like a bit of a friend because it was just this sort of constant thing in life.

Absolutely, and also like, absurd, you know. I guess my sense of humour is quite absurd. I think it’s healthy and beneficial when you’re going through a great loss. It does have moments where it’s just almost surreal (with) what’s happening to you, and it’s the small, bizarre details that you remember about these big emotional times in your life.

I just found myself wanting to write about the small minor incidents.

Carl Marsh

Delicacy by Katy Wix is out now.

---

What period did you keep writing all this down?

Katy Wix It’s taken about two years to write. And it’s been quite an all-encompassing project. And yeah, it was nice to have the distraction of that sometimes. And it’s like a kind of valve for all the stress, almost. But I think it has been [cathartic].

When you go through something and feel as though something came out of it, like a book, that feels quite nice.

Carl Marsh It’s good that you did that by writing a book to express your emotions that you were (are) going through. But the book is not all about grief as there are some funny, well, a lot of funny moments. Life is like that, isn’t it, happy times and sad times?

Going down a storm on Netflix is Zero Chill, likened to Free Reign but without the horses [the same production team makes it] - this one is set on the ice. Jeremias Amoore plays one of the ice hockey players, and we had a long chat via Zoom.

Carl Marsh I’ve got to ask, how good were you at ice skating before you started filming Zero Chill that has you portraying an ice hockey player?

Jeremias Amoore So, when I got offered this part, it was pretty funny because when I went to the location, they had this massive rink all hooked up, just for us to train. And I was like, “this is

CARDIFF TIMES 23

amazing”, you know? Then I got trained by Ron Shudra, a fantastic hockey coach and then also David Hartley. And they taught me everything I know from slipping and sliding on the ice. I picked up hockey stops, crossovers, backwards crossovers, slapshots; they taught me everything. And I was so grateful to have them there with us on the ice and to have all of that time previous before starting to shoot.

see how well people have perceived it. And, you know, being in the top 10, I’m, like [shouts] “Amazing”. Everyone has worked so hard on the show, the crew, the cast, and you know, to see now what it does for the audience is just beautiful.

Carl Marsh Did any of the cast have any bad injuries during the shoot or training?

Carl Marsh

Jeremias Amoore

Was it something like nine weeks of training? That’s not long.

Praise the Lord, No. No one actually injured themselves on the show. We also had a fantastic physio on the show that really looked after us. So, whenever we got a little bit sore, she was just right there, making sure that you’re staying smooth.

Jeremias Amoore The training? Yeah, and then whenever we had a free day during shooting as well, we’d continue training and practising.

Carl Marsh

Carl Marsh

Have you - when Lockdowns restrictions permitted around Christmas time - kept up your skating prowess on the ice somewhere?

Did you ever have stresses with the skating thinking maybe this is a bit more than I could handle here?

Jeremias Amoore (Laughs) It’s a good question.

Because, no, I didn’t feel like I wouldn’t get it. I did have a feeling maybe after like, six, eight weeks where I’d be able to, you know, really bite my teeth into that and master it. But, because I’ve played competitive sports all my life, I knew what it was like to acquire a new skill, especially under pressure. And, you know, really understand how it works. So, it was hard at times, just as my muscles had to get used to the pressure of skating and my knees and my legs. But, you know, once you kind of build muscle-up, it got a lot easier and (it became) a lot more relaxed in that sense.

Carl Marsh The readers will undoubtedly be curious to know when Zero Chill was filmed; surely it was all before Lockdown started?

Jeremias Amoore It was during and before the Lockdown. So, we started filming in 2019. And then, obviously, the pandemic hit. And that’s when we had to kind of pause. Then we came back after a couple of months in August (2020) and just wrapped up everything there. Oh, then we just had one last couple of shoots this year (2021). So, it was a couple of pickups.

And that was about it. But yeah, if I think about it now, it was quite a long span of shooting, you know, if you count the pandemic; but not so long if you don’t count it.

Carl Marsh The show has gone down really well; that must make all that hard work of learning to skate (correctly) all worthwhile?

Jeremias Amoore Thank you. Thank you. Yeah, it’s incredibly rewarding to

24 CARDIFF TIMES

Jeremias Amoore I’ve managed to get on one rink once before we went back into Lockdown again.

And my girlfriend was very impressed! (Laughs) Carl Marsh I want to ask you what gave you the desire to become an actor in the first place? Was it from your school days growing up in Germany?

Jeremias Amoore It was after school. So the moment I graduated from school, I’m like, this is what I want to do. I’d done a school play, and when I stood there on stage, and I connected to the audience and the material, I was like, “Wow, this is it!”. And after that, I knew I wanted to do this forever. Any sacrifices that I had to make for this, like my (hobby of) Muy Thai boxing, I did. And from that point onwards, I was pursuing it.

Carl Marsh Lockdowns have been a nightmare, haven’t they? You seem like a really happy and optimistic type of guy, so what’s kept you going through all of this locked up stuff?

Jeremias Amoore I am just making the best out of the situation. I picked up a guitar as I wanted to learn how to play it. One of my brothers speaks Spanish, well, actually two of them. So, I aim to communicate with them now. Then just homing in on my craft and staying busy. And I am one of those people that had the chance to work during this time. So I’m incredibly grateful for that as well.

Zero Chill is out now on Netflix.

Natural health brand, with South Wales roots, receives Her Majesty’s recognition in the 2021 Queen’s Awards for Enterprise Pioneering natural health brand, BetterYou, has received one of the most prestigious accolades in UK business: The Queen’s Award for Enterprise.

A 2021 winner in the Innovation category, BetterYou - which specialises in pill-free nutritional supplements - receives the prestigious award for its development of a revolutionary oral spray delivery method for supplementation, which offers an effective and convenient alternative to traditional tablets and capsules.

Proud to continue its legacy with Cardiff University, BetterYou excels in product testing and to this day, Dr Charles Heard and his team absorption test every product developed and manufactured by the brand.

The brand’s unique and iconic delivery mechanism, developed through its scientific partnership with Dr Charles Heard and the Pharmacy and Pharmacology Research Team at Cardiff University, allows essential nutrients to be absorbed via the inner cheek in the mouth, bypassing the primary processing of the digestive system - a method which is ideal for the growing population with malabsorption issues such as IBS, Crohn’s and Coeliac disease along with people that cannot, or prefer not, to take traditional tablets.

Since the launch of its Vitamin D3 Oral Spray in

2010, the brand has been innovating in this industry ever since and now offers a wide range of nutritional oral sprays for vitamins and minerals that are underrepresented, or simply omitted from modern diets and lifestyles.

The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise offers British companies’ global recognition, improved opportunities to break into new markets, attract investment and new talent, whilst also raising the awareness of each individual brand and their unique products or services.

Companies that enter the awards must present a compelling case, completing their application to the highest standards and demonstrating both clear commercial strength and a strong corporate social responsibility.

Pill-free vitamin D Fast, effective immune support – in a spray

Available from

and all good pharmacies, health stores and online at betteryou.com

CARDIFF TIMES 25

26 CARDIFF TIMES

From Forte Cardiff to the Juillard School in New York - A Musical Journey Katie Jenkins is an active recording artist and features regularly as vocalist on her own tracks. Katie’s music has been performed across Europe and the US, including performances at National Sawdust Brooklyn where she held a fellowship, The Juilliard School, The Curtis Institute of Music and The Wales Millennium Centre. Katie is a 2021, Artist in Residence with the Dordor Gallery, Brooklyn.

At the Juilliard School, Katie was the last student of renowned composer, Christopher Rouse. She now works with Matthias Pintscher, conductor of the Ensemble Intercomporain, as well as Pulitzer prize winning composer Melinda Wagner. She holds the Henry Mancini Fellowship as well as the Gretchaninoff composition award .

Katie is a teaching fellow at the Center for Innovation of the Arts at Juilliard where she coaches composition for Film, TV and Media.

Katie's story "I was three when I started piano classes at Forte and four when I started violin. Not once did I ever grumble about going to music lessons, I was always waiting by the door, itching to go! I definitely enjoyed being part of a class, particularly when I was young, because it was very interactive and engaging for little minds! I was enthused by Forte’s ‘Munchkin Music’ books and the combination of singing, learning rhythms and theory.

The variety was stimulating! In a class, there was less pressure on me as an individual and having fellow students learning the same pieces was inspiring! I think having a ‘learning partner’ made the early stages much easier and I was motivated to practise by learning alongside my Mum.

Forte has definitely contributed to my success as a musician. Regularly playing for my other class members got me used to performing and has helped me to control my performance nerves to this day! I learnt much more than how to play my instruments. I really learnt to listen and that is a skill that will never leave me! At school, I noticed how well I did at aural tests and theory compared to other students and I think that Forte gave me a solid foundation with this.

I will always remember the Forte festivals! They were such an enjoyable culmination of everyone’s hard work (I think I still have the medals somewhere!).

Since leaving Forte aged 11, my love of music continued to flourish. I joined the county orchestras, performed as a soloist and began to write my own music. Since 2018, I have been studying composition at The Juilliard School in New York. Forte really made me the confident improviser that I am today, which really aided my transition into composition. My time there encouraged me to think creatively and to enjoy creating music with others. I am currently collaborating with people from all across the globe on multimedia works, films and pieces for theatre and concert". www.katiejenkinscomposer.com

If you would like to experience how music lessons can make a positive impact on a child's life (or indeed your own) contact us today for a FREE trial lesson.

4, Radyr Court Shops, Danescourt Way, Llandaff Cardiff, CF5 2SF. Telephone 029 2063 1340 fortecardiff@fortemusic.co.uk www.fortemusic.co.uk/cardiff.

CARDIFF TIMES 27  

    

Fashion done your own way

By Molly Dutton the park having a coffee and some cake. The world awaits us, and we must be prepared!

Spring has finally sprung, and the beer gardens will shortly be opening their gates to let us all in for a well-deserved pint! It has been a long one and we should make the most of the next few months of freedom. To celebrate the official start to 2021 (I have decided to write off the past couple of months), I thought it would only be right to discuss what we’re going to wear on our first day out. Now some of you may not have had this at the forefront of your minds but I think it is a lovely thing to think about. Gone are the days of selecting which pair of joggers you could wear to the living room. I’m getting nervous just thinking about it! Whilst a couple of years ago I would’ve just popped on some leggings and a hoodie for a mid-week shopping trip, I now fully intend on wearing every single item in my wardrobe, whatever the occasion may be. As they say, the world is your catwalk (and yes that does apply to Cwmbran shopping centre as well)! I know that not everyone will be heading straight to the pub once the doors are open and some of us may fancy a more casual start to the summer so this article will have something for everyone. On a serious note, it is completely understandable if you don’t fancy hitting the clubs straight away and it is even more normal if you are feeling nervous about actually having to leave the house! Having been comfortable in our homes for the past however many months, it is important to prioritise ourselves and do what makes us feel happy, even if that’s just sitting in 28 CARDIFF TIMES

If you haven’t gathered from this article already, I am unbelievably excited to finally be able to go out-out (in other words, actually being able to wear a dress and heels to somewhere other than my garden). Like many others, I turned the big 18 in between the lockdowns and have yet to take on the town in my evening attire. Never in my life did I expect the phrase ‘beer garden fashion’ to grow in popularity but, after the lockdown trends of banana bread and mullets, not much surprises me anymore. For those of you that don’t know, ‘beer garden fashion’ consists of mostly jeans and nice tops, accompanied with lovely accessories and jackets to keep us warm when settling in for the night. Warmth is absolutely key when constructing these outfits (I can almost hear my mum cheering in the background), it is no longer practical to wear crop tops and mini skirts when there is no pub fire to keep us cosy. Due to the outdoor nature of our future pub crawls, I have devised a list of my most recommended items for you to wear outside. At the

stunning blue and red heels recently that were all very affordable and classic.

top of my list is an item that, in my opinion, cannot be beaten in the current situation: the wide leg jean. It may come as a surprise to most, but skinny jeans have been fully replaced by this comfortable choice; wide leg jeans are perfect for any outfit and can easily be paired with an oversized jumper when the night starts to get chilly. My favourites are from Prettylittlething.com and ASOS as they are very well suited to my height and are perfectly matched to your size requirements! As for accessories, it is very trendy at the moment to go for the bolder colours for your shoes and bags as they compliment the simplicity of your other items. This completely goes against the rule of neutrals that I have always followed when selecting accessories, but it is a trend that I have accepted with open arms. For me personally, bright pink, green and orange are the ideal summer colours for outfit combinations (I tend to go for blue jeans and a white top), but your options are entirely unique and endless so have some fun experimenting! Whilst Primark and online boutiques are ideal for any specific ideas that you have, I would recommend having a rummage in your local charity shop as I have found some

As promised, I cannot just focus on pub attire as there are so many other occasions that await us in the upcoming months. For those of you who enjoy a more relaxed setting for your events, perhaps your garden or living room (when we’re allowed of course), there are so many beautiful outfits that can be chosen. Loungewear has been taken to the next level in lockdown; the term has now expanded way past the grey joggers and old sweatshirts that used to be our only options. In the modern lockdown world, there are a range of comfy matching jogging sets and legging combos that can take your garden attire to the next level. One trend that has made a startling comeback is the infamous Juicy Couture velour tracksuit (draw your mind back to Paris Hilton in 2000), particularly the hot pink and black co-ords.

I will happily admit that, at first, I was very reluctant to participate in this trend as I wasn’t sure that it would be sustainable and therefore wasn’t worth the investment. However, when paired with some white trainers or even some nude heels, this tracksuit could not be more perfect for a casual night in with the girls (or even an exciting late-night trip to big Tesco’s).

Whatever you plan on doing when the restrictions start to ease, please be safe and have fun as every one of us deserves it. Also, do remember that if you purchase a velour tracksuit, it is only acceptable to change your name and move to Beverly Hills immediately, and hire an assistant too of course!

CARDIFF TIMES 29

SPRING FEBRUARY

Make a truly space inbeautiful your home

Blinds Heating Flooring FREE Floor Vertical FREE Under FREE Cardiff: 02920 Bridgend: 01656 508770 349515 Barry: 01446 439212 Mobile/Text: 07976640959 *Credit is provided subject to application & affordability.

SALE

£450 £799

£7,995

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 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 CARDIFF TIMES 31

“I can see the sea!”

The Annual Outing

By Sara John

Everyone was wearing their Chapel best clothes, in soft pale colours to pay tribute to the fresh, sunny weather. All the mothers, grandmas, children and some fathers and grandpas too were walking with an air of expectation in the direction of Hope Chapel, the English Baptist chapel in Gelli, Rhondda.

I clearly remember those many beautiful Spring mornings and, it seemed the very best weather was always on the day of Hope Chapel’s Annual Anniversary Sunday! It was a day of celebration and entertainment planned, rehearsed and much anticipated.

These recollections come back to me from long, long ago, but they are still quite clear inside my head. These Annual Anniversary events were particularly well attended especially for two decades or so after the end of the Second War when, at last, rationing was over, but items once plentiful were in very short supply. By the early nineteen fifties, there was full employment in the Valleys, but wages were low.

Inside the chapel, the east wall stage was set with rows of staggered benches to accommodate the large number of pupils who attended Sunday School there. The congregation, who would shortly become the ‘audience,’ were seated on the ground floor and in the three encircling balconies upstairs. They would be able to see each and every child who would soon be on stage to take part in this Anniversary annual musical event.

However, it was more than just a musical event; there would be spoken verse, some solos, the choir would sing and the congregation would join in at the end only I repeat, only when, the formidable conductress would turn round to face them and raise her baton. I thought in a rather threatening manner!

The audience had to be early to get a seat otherwise they had to listen to the singing from outside. The chapel along with the adjacent schoolroom was often used for drama productions and Brass Band concerts. The two buildings had been built on a spacious plot alongside a lovely Victorian park, also with a bandstand. I will not risk making any comparisons with The Park and Dare Brass Band in one venue (sold out of course) and The Cory Brass Band twenty yards away at the other venue. (Also sold out).

On this special Sunday morning, as we took our seats, we nodded nicely to people we knew (that meant, generally, everyone who was there) and when you looked around you were struck by the scents arising from jars, vases, pots and myriad containers of fresh spring flowers. I recall being small enough to think this was how heaven was going to be. A touch of Paradise. Everyone wearing nice clothes, non-school shoes, matching hair ribbons and lovely smells.

No coal dust anywhere, no pit-top hooters, no exhausted colliers and no elderly retired miners strolling about and having to stop every few yards to “catch their breath” as they used to say.

32 CARDIFF TIMES

Another memory is the sweet smell left by the extensive and exhaustive polishing of the proudly exposed oak rails, pews, and general supporting structure of the building. The chapel was as spotless as a modern ice cream parlour. Everything was gleaming and the smell of polish was overwhelming.

The odd splash of Evening in Paris, Californian Poppy and Yardley’s Lavender Water could not compete.

Pay attention now. It is about to start.

The lady pianist/accompanist has arrived on stage and taken her seat at the piano. She is checking her scores for the hundredth time that morning. It is all alright, no one has touched them, no one would dare! There is watery

applause.

The children come on stage in single file, the smallest first.

Huge applause, cheers and few little waves from relatives in the congregation. They all sit down neatly and nicely. Many look as though they are expecting a lot of dental fillings, or extra homework or for all the examination questions to be in Norwegian.

Now here comes Madame Stanford Griffiths, a big noise in musical circles in more ways than one; she greets all the children that she has spent weeks rehearsing with. They all look quite terrified of her, but, like so many of us, in Wales, unable to let the chance of possible future fame, stardom, medals and crowns slip away. Competitive? You bet. Hair in ringlets and new dresses, little white crochet socks and black patent shoes, you bet. Many small boys would be wearing “dickie bows” (bow ties) which I can assure you were NOT their idea in the first place.

Madame S-G has warm applause, she is dedicated to what she does and is well respected in the Valley.

Many of the parents and other relatives of these young performers would, themselves have attended Sunday School years before. They would remember well enough what it was like waiting for their turn to perform in front of a seascape of faces.

Remember, some of the children on stage, expected to sit still, behave and perform at this event today would have been as young as five years old.

In the afternoon for the second event that day of this Celebration, the settings would be the same, but the performers were the teenagers of the Senior Sunday School.

In the evening, for the third event, it would be the congregation, the adults, the dedicated chapel goers themselves who would be “in the spotlight” as it were.

Many of the most senior of them, in the early 1950s, could recall the buildings actually going up and attending the first service of Dedication.

The majority of these chapels in the Valleys would have been built at different times, spanning the late 1880’s right up to the beginning of the First World War. Back now to the morning meeting, with music and prayers.

The minister himself comes on stage to welcome everyone.

He explains to any “strangers, visitors and people from away” that the Sunday of the Annual Anniversary of the Chapel is one of the highlights of the year. He goes on to express thanks to chapel members, the performers, the children and the audience/congregation. “Traditionally”, he says, “this occasion comprises of two parts, each as important as the other”.

People, especially the children, are waiting for a most important announcement. It is always left to the last.

He continues, “We offer an invitation to visit Porthcawl, by bus, for a day trip. It is free for all the children who are members of the Sunday School. And the cost is very reasonable for those who wish to come. Whether they are Chapel members or not does not matter at all, everyone will be most welcome!”.

Each year, for many, certainly in the past, through the

Slump, the Strikes and the Depression of the inter-War years it was their only trip to a venue outside the Rhondda Valley. Just one day in the year for the children to play on the sands, splash in the sea, taste candy floss and play ball on a large FLAT surface. Large Flat surfaces were (and still are) in very short supply in the valleys of South Wales.

The good Minister explains clearly when and where to come to collect the tickets, the costs and most importantly the time of DEPARTURE of the buses, (the capitals denote a louder voice thereby emphasising the importance of this information).

Such excitement.

On the appointed future Saturday there could be as many as two hundred people and what would seem like two thousand children gathering on the street outside the Chapel on the morning of the trip to Porthcawl. The different chapels would not choose the same day for the trip, although it was always on a Saturday. There would be a large white card with a numeral in strong black ink, in each of the bus drivers’ cabs. All the trippers had to remember this number not for the ‘going’ but for the ‘coming back’. The buses were quickly full and, I used to think as a small child that the buses themselves were excited and eager to see the sea.

I might add that I also thought, but never mentioned it to anybody that the Minister’s choice of Porthcawl, a seaside town, may have had a lot to do with being a Baptist Minister, enjoying going in the sea, and perhaps performing more Baptisms? When I was even younger my grandmother (Welsh Baptist - Moriah Chapel Pentre) took me to witness twenty or so adults dressed in white robes being baptised in a very large tank, inside the local Siloam Chapel. I shall never forget the air of sanctity and spirituality in the sacred atmosphere inside that huge dark and forbidding building.

The minister performing the Baptisms there held the back of the collar of the robe, the new member to-be stood at right angles to the Minister and, with a great flourish he tipped them backwards, so they were, momentarily, completely submerged.

Before industry destroyed (temporarily as it turns out, now the River runs clear again) the River Rhondda, it was once used for Baptisms. The stone steps at the back of where Nebo Chapel once stood in Ystrad are still there leading down to the river. My paternal great grandparents were certainly Baptised there in the 1860s.

Back on the bus now, voices were heard, “Are we there yet?” No! Do not be so twp! We are still in Tonypandy”.

“I can see the sea!” “No you can’t” “Well I saw it just now.

I think it was the sea”. “How much money have you got then?” “I got a ten-shilling note from Bopa Sweetshop and four half-crowns saved up”. “You can’t have. There’s not that much”.

The two brothers who are arguing are silenced with a large striped peppermint chapel (which means it lasts a long time) sweet, freed of its wrapping and tipped straight into their mouths by their Gran.

The convoy of buses race out of the Valley and into the green sweet-scented, strange to some, Vale of Glamorgan.

No wandering sheep, no workmen with coal powdered faces wearing coal coloured and rain-drenched working clothes waiting for slow workmen’s only buses to take them to their

CARDIFF TIMES 33

clean as a new pin houses. Then, only then to enjoy a hot bath and a hot dinner in that order.

The sheep, in the Vale, carefully noted by all who were looking out of the windows of the bus were heads first into the juicy grasses. These Sheep knew how to behave nicely; they did not eat garden flowers and they had no dealings with any residents and would have been considered both independent and reserved in their behaviour. In The Rhondda in those days, these were not necessarily traits that were welcomed. The Vale sheep would have been deeply shocked at Rhondda sheep spotting bowls of daffodils on the windowsill inside my Aunty Gladys’ front room in William Street in Ystrad, and, on one occasion and as it was a nice sunny day the front door was already wide open, they all decided to march straight in, uninvited, and scoff the lot.

Back to the buses. Who would be the first to see the sea?

The journey to Porthcawl, in those days, was at least an hour and a half. After an hour and a quarter, the children were getting restless and worried that the driver had gone the wrong way. Some of the adults were convinced the driver had taken the wrong turning in Talbot Green but did not say anything because they were not sure of the route themselves or if the council had moved Talbot Green. Again.

Spirits were lifted and worries dispersed when the driver shouts, “There it is, over towards the left, there’s the sea, and there is not a cloud in the sky over Porthcawl! Look to the right, it is raining in Bridgend” There would have been shouting and cheering, Belongings were gathered up, children were counted and checked.

Decisions were made about the children, with all their spades and swimsuits and buckets and towels and so on.

Many of the children wanted to spend the day on the beach with their friends, not necessarily with close relatives! It was considered to be a good plan as children seemed to be better behaved and more content when they were playing

34 CARDIFF TIMES

together as ‘substitute siblings’ as it were for the day!

We are there! We are there!

The buses turn in to the coach park. Bustles and hustles, then laughter as two large ladies attempt to alight at the same time so as, they explained to the waiting queue behind them, they were afraid of losing one another. “Turn left for Coney Beach” shouts the driver, (no one could hear him) “Turn right for Rest Bay”. “I could do with a nice rest and all,” said an elderly gentleman in a Panama hat and a cream linen jacket, worn with second best dark wool trousers. The children thought and hoped that he was going to be selling ice cream.

“I can see the sea, but it is an awful long way away” wailed another small person, “Don’t you worry now”, reassured the bus driver to all and sundry, “it will be back this afternoon, it has just gone over to Somerset”.

He reminded all his passengers of the number of their bus and that they had to be seated and comfortable by six o’clock for the return journey home.

Within minutes there were only coaches and buses in the Coach park.

Troops of visitors were heading quickly round to the left, past the miniature railway, promising the children that they could ride on it later on. Some visitors were heading round to the right and on to Rest Bay, mostly they were ‘child free’ as many of the youngsters had already spotted all the activity in the Fun Fair, a short distance away and were racing ahead shouting, “This way, this way”.

Families, couples, bands of older children and groups of neighbours were setting up camp, for the day, on the beach.

Deckchairs were organised for the older generation; they would not be wishing to move until it was time to go for the bus home. Bags, toys, bats and balls, sandwiches, paper bags of homemade Welsh cakes and slices of barabrith

were stored under the deckchairs. The men helped each other with the deckchairs, as not everyone had had the experience of putting them up them safely. It was certainly not, in those days, an exercise that many women would tackle.

Frequently the deckchairs, rugs, even a make-do windbreak would all be set up in a large circle with the small children put to play safely in the middle. This reminded me of the ‘Cowboys and Indians’ films when the word was given to circle the wagons. Some children set off down the beach in the general direction of Somerset in the hope of a chance to swim in the sea. Parents explained that the tide was coming in so, it was safer than when the tide was going out, BUT, they were not to go too far or too deep!

Trays of hot strong tea in heavy china teapots, very slightly chipped china cups and saucers, sugar and milk were fetched from the kiosk. You were obliged to pay a half-crown deposit on the tea tray so the kiosk lady ensured you would not be “forgetting” to return it. I recall that homemade corn beef sandwiches were popular, less so were bloater paste ones. Children were instructed not to drop their sandwiches on the sand, if they did, they would have to go without. One wonders how many bloater paste sandwiches were washed out to Somerset when the tide, eventually, came in. But no corn beef ones.

Lunch over. Time for a snooze in the sun. Children playing, neighbours chatting, sun shining with clear skies and a very slight southerly breeze. Most parents, in those days, managed to prevent the youngsters from going to the Fun Fair too early in the day. “Later on,” they would say, “on our way back to the bus, and anyway not everything is open yet”. All too soon it was time to stretch legs, have an ice cream, perhaps candy floss? Then to collect up all the paraphernalia and visit the conveniences for a wash and brush-up. It was time to make sure everyone had everything with them, and nothing was left behind before a short walk back to the bus. For some via the Fun Fair.

The visitors now were going in the direction of the Coach park and boarding buses with faraway names on the front and strange numerals. Although there were other people going in other directions, I recall (and I was quite small) asking my father why some people were not getting on the buses, He replied that they LIVED in Porthcawl! I could not believe that to be true. Imaging LIVING in Porthcawl. Every day!

With everyone safely on the bus, it would have been a single-decker with doors that closed safely, it was time to set off. All the passengers were hot, tired, happy, and had had a wonderful day out. There was more to come. What happened next was a phenomenon that I remember well.

Once the return journey was underway someone would start singing, usually a man, frequently a man, an ordinary man, with a beautiful tenor voice that brought an emotional lump to the throat of the listeners. What a voice everyone would say. Others would join in. This was an example of a ‘Spontaneous Choir’. A traditional Welsh custom.

First, there would be hymns, always sung in Welsh and in three or four-part harmony. The hymns would be interspersed with popular songs of the day. Not always of the day though, more like popular songs of the decade. That did not matter. ‘Cwm Rhondda’ would be followed by ‘One man went to mow’ ‘Ten Green Bottles’ then ‘Aberystwyth’, ‘We’ll meet again’ (all the ladies joined in this one), more

hymns, ‘If you were the only girl in the world’ (again male and female voices) ‘Praise my Soul the King of Heaven’, ‘Daisy, Daisy give me your answer do’, then someone would begin, ‘For he’s a jolly good fellow’ and there would be a rattling of coins and the passing around of someone’s hat.

A collection of cash for the driver presented to him with cheering and applause.

Everything went quiet for a while. It was dark outside. The wife of the tenor who had started the spontaneous choir pointed out to him the moon rising in the darkened sky.

Recalling seeing the Student Prince with the voice of Marion Lanza recently in the Workman’s Hall in Ton Pentre, he took a deep breath and started singing again:“Overhead the moon is beaming Bright as blossoms on the bough Nothing is heard But the song of the bird Filing all the air with dreaming” Rapturous applause for the tenor and the perfect end to a lovely day.

CARDIFF TIMES 35

Food For Life Get Togethers Plant and Share in Trowbridge

From 8th- 15th May, people living in the Trowbridge area

at growing their own food, whether it’s in their garden or on

of Cardiff will be able to take part in a brand-new growing

their windowsill,” says Jude Thoburn-Price, Manager of the

project led by the local Pantry.

Trowbridge Pantry.

The Pantry, based at the Trowbridge Community Centre,

“The grant we’ve received from Food For Life Get Togethers

has been awarded a Food For Life Get Togethers grant to

will allow me to grow the seeds in seed trays and then make

fund a project that brings together people of different ages

little bundles of seedlings to give out to members of the local

from different backgrounds to strengthen and connect the

community, along with information about how to care for the

community through growing, cooking and food sharing.

seedlings.

The Trowbridge ‘Grow, Share, Eat’ project is hoping to

“People will be given a selection of seedlings to try and grow

involve more than 100 families as the Pantry establishes

at home. The aim is that we encourage the community –

itself within its local area. An initiative led by Bethania

people of all ages - to get involved. And as the plants grow,

Church, Eastern High School and CAST (Coronavirus Action

people can share and delight in their newfound gardening

St Mellons and Trowbridge), the Pantry is part of the Your

skills and of course, taste the wonderful produce,” adds

Local Pantry network - helping to create a sustainable and

Jude.

long-term solution to food poverty.

“Those taking part will also benefit from support to grow their

This particular project in Trowbridge is part of the Food For

own good food and we’ll also be sharing recipes about how

Life Get Togethers Plant and Share Month, a campaign that’s

to cook with the produce and encouraging people to share

calling on people across the UK to grow and share produce

any surplus produce with the wider community.”

with their local communities from 19th April- 19th May.

Louise Shute, Food for Life Get Togethers Programme

“In addition to starting the Pantry, I’m also really keen to

Manager in Wales says she is delighted that the Trowbridge

encourage and support local people who want to have a go

community is joining in with Plant and Share Month and is keen to encourage communities across Wales to take part.

“Whether you’re growing in yoghurt pots for the first time or you’re a seasoned grower with an allotment, Plant and Share Month is for you,” says Louise.

“You can either take part in the activities led by Jude in Trowbridge or have a go yourself - it’s really easy to get involved. You need to plant your seeds, share the seedlings or produce and tell us who you shared them with on Facebook or Twitter using #FFLGetTogethers.

“Food for Life Get Togethers have plenty of resources to get you potting. Register to get access to them all!

“You can also take part in our free online training to boost your skills, download your Plant and Share Toolkit, and join our digital community to swap tips and ideas.”

If you’d like to know more about Food For Life Get Togethers and the Plant and Share Month, please visit fflgettogethers.org/plantandshare

CARDIFF TIMES 37

Spring has Sprung and a new Beauty Routine has begun!

By Jo-Lacey

Herbal Tea First I start the day with a herbalife tea. The tea has many health benefits including jump starting your metabolism. After all, beauty has to start from within.

Cleanse I’ve been using Clean Jelly Oil Cleanser from Ren Skincare.

Simply massage gently over dry skin, then add warm water. To remove use a sponge or muslin cloth. The cleanser removes makeup, pollution and SPF. After using this product my skin feels clean and hydrated.

The product is vegan friendly and the packaging is designed using recyclable materials.

Tone Next, I apply Summer Limited Edition Daily AHA Tonic from Ren Skincare.

Within seconds of it hitting my skin it instantly feels soothed.

The pores feel like they are tightening up and my skin feels refreshed. The bottle is made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic, and is enriched with British sourced Organic Cucumber. It’s a win all around, being kind to your skin and kind to our planet.

Serum If you’ve never used a face serum, please do! I’ve been using Freya+Bailey Brightening Boost Face Serum and I can see a huge difference within seconds after applying. It hides blemishes, hydrates your skin and leaves a subtle glow. My skin looks brighter and radiant and leaves a natural boost to your complexion without having to wear make-up.

Moisturise I am currently using Celestial Moisturiser from Lush.

38 CARDIFF TIMES

I simply massage the moisturiser to my face paying particular attention to any dry areas. It’s a lightweight moisturiser so is just enough to give protection to your skin and my skin feels softer and soothed from ingredients such as almond oil and almond milk.

Eye cream I should do this daily but to be completely honest I only treat my eye area when I feel really tired and need an extra boost. I’ve been using Monat Eye Smooth cream. It’s a little on the pricey side but as you only need a tiny amount this will last forever and a day.

Simply apply a small amount of cream to the eye area then gently glide the roller under the eyes. The roller, combined with the cream, leaves a cooling affect which transforms the eye area, from feeling tired to light and refreshed.

Urtekram Rise and Shine Collection Transform your morning ritual with the Rise and Shine Collection from Urtekram. The products encompass a refreshing scent of Orange Blossom perfectly balanced by warm spices. The range is vegan friendly and packaged in predominately sustainable materials made from plant-based sugar cane to help reduce the amount of CO2 used. The range comprises of Ultimate Repair Shampoo and Conditioner, Body Wash, Body Lotion, Hand Wash and Hand Cream. I could smell this product all day long.

The hand cream leaves my skin feeling super smooth without leaving a sticky residue.

Available from independent health stores and www.thefragranceshop.co.uk/urtekram Bumi Naturals Hemp & Shine Bundle Many of us will suffer with dry skin over the winter season. To prepare yourself for the summer period polish away dead skin then add a layer of body butter to protect and hydrate. Bumi Naturals Hemp & Shine Bundle is plastic-free, vegan friendly, waterless and made from organic ingredients. The collection has been cold pressed to retain as many natural benefits as possible. The range contain high levels of Vitamin A, B1, B2, D and E to deeply nourish the skin.

With wet skin first use the Body Polish focusing on dry areas such as knees and elbows. The polish contains poppy seeds with hemp and calming lavender.

Massage into the skin then wash off using warm water.

glow from the inside out!

Out of ideas to treat someone special?

Wonder & Awe Gift Boxes Wonder & Awe have been serving customer’s needs during a tough 2020. It allowed them to help their customer’s celebrate thousands of birthdays, anniversaries, and special events sending hugs and smiles around the globe. They have vastly expanded their gift boxes which range from hug boxes, birthday boxes, pamper birthdays, date nights, thank you boxes and feel better boxes. The range is huge. Give someone a treat with a twist, visit wonder-awe.com

Finish by applying a layer of Body Butter to dry skin.

The Body Butter nourishes your skin and leaves a beautiful healthy glow thanks to the Avocado oil.

Available from blommabeauty.com

Exercise Last but not least one of the best free beauty tips I can offer is exercise. If you exercise you feel energised. If you feel energised you feel happier. If you feel happier you feel more confident. I started the couch to 5k in 2020. Can I start by saying I was not a great fan of exercise and it’s still a push some weeks to keep it going. However, I was determined not to give up. You start off gradually jogging for roughly 3 minutes, walk 5 minutes then jog 3 minutes. This increases over the coming weeks until you are able to take on your final challenge which is jogging the distance of 5 kilometres without stopping. The stronger I became the more determined I became to try harder. The weight slowly started to come off and clothes started to feel loser.

The more I exercised the less I wanted to eat. And I’ve noticed the less active I am the more junk I put into my body. Beauty routines will help keep your skin protected and younger looking for longer, however exercise boosts your health and wellbeing and will naturally help to boost your skin along with drinking plenty of water.

Start a new challenge no matter how big or small! I hope it boosts your inner confidence and helps you

CARDIFF TIMES 39

CT|Sponsored Feature

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.

#MakeMeFamous

Point Nemo

Bookings: info@lab22cardiff.com Instagram: @lab22cardiff

40 CARDIFF TIMES

Snakebite Negroni

CT|Sponsored Feature

Happy Birthday Royal Mint Experience!

Happy Birthday Royal Mint Experience!

January 2017 – ‘Strike your own coin’ reveals new £1 coins

The interactive ‘Strike your own coin’ exhibit allowed visitors to strike their very own new £1 January 2017 before it was released into circulation a couple of months later. More recently, v Located in Llantrisant, South Wales, The Royal Mint st were able to strikethousands their own ‘Withdrawal Experience welcomes of visitors each year. from the EU’ 50p exclusively on January 31 2020.

The truly unique attraction takes visitors ‘behind the ‘Strike your own coin’ exhibit has always proved popular, with coins such as the Sir Isaac New scenes’ of coin making, followed by an interactive andexhibition the Nutcracker coins alsoEach struck visitors. exploring 1,100£5 years of history. visitorby our January 31st 2020. The ‘Strike your own coin’ exhibit has also has the chance to strike their own UK coin.

This month, The Royal Mint Experience celebrates it’s

5th birthday (a lockdown birthday like most of you are July 2017 – While A Royal Visit is getting ready to familiar with!). the Experience

reopen very soon, we thought we’d look back on some of our fondest memories…

Located in Llantrisant, South Wales, The Royal Mint Experience welcomes thousands of visitors each always proved popular, with‘behind coins as Sirfollowed Isaacby an year.

The truly unique attraction takes visitors thesuch scenes’ of cointhe making, interactive exploring 1,100 years of history. Each alsoalso has thestruck chance to by strike their Newtonexhibition 50p and the Nutcracker £5 visitor coins own UK coin.

our visitors.

This month, The Royal Mint Experience celebrates it’s 5th birthday (a lockdown birthday like most of you are familiar with!). While the Experience is getting ready to reopen very soon, we thought we’d July Visit look back2017 on some–ofA ourRoyal fondest memories…

Prince Charles visited The Royal Mint Experience in July 2017 and was treated to one of our tours, showing how coins are made at The Royal Mint and exploring its rich 1,100 year history as the original maker of coins in the UK.

October 2016 – The Royal Mint Experience opening ceremony!

January 2019 - VIP Tours For the first time, we opened our factory floors exclusively for our VIP tours for a true behind-the-scenes experience.

Launched 2019, these tours By the time The Royal Mint Experiencein wasJanuary officially opened

by Olympic medallists Jazz Carlin & Sam Cross in October 2016, it had already welcomed over 40,000 visitors since its initial opening in May. allowed visitors to see the inner workings of The Royal The Rio 2016 Team GB medal winners unveiled the Royal Mint Experience’s official opening plaque.

Mint for the first time.

2020 - We’ve been busy!

While closed in 2020, the RME was home to the production of 1.9m visors for use by the NHS. The Royal Mint has state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities October 2016 – The Royal Mint Experience opening in Llantrisant, and engineers at the site who were keen Prince Charles visited The Royal Mint Experience in July was treated to one of our t ceremony! to support NHS 2017 workersand began searching for medical equipment which could be easily produced on site.history as the showing how coins are made at The Royal Mint and exploring its rich 1,100 year By the time The Royal Mint Experience was officially opened Olympicinmedallists Jazz Carlin & Sam The Royal Mint Experience has some of the most unique maker ofbycoins the UK. Cross in October 2016, it had already welcomed over and rare coins in British history on display, providing 40,000 visitors since its initial opening in May. The Rio visitors with a unique look back in time through the coins 2016 Team GB medal winners unveiled the Royal Mint and memorabilia of yesteryear.

Experience’s official opening plaque.

January 2019 - VIP Tours Whilst The Royal Mint Experience has remained closed January 2017 – ‘Strike your own coin’ reveals new for most of last year, we are working hard behind the £1 coins scenes to ensure that when we re-open, we provide our customers with the best possible experience and will The interactive ‘Strike your own coin’ exhibit allowed have an exciting calendar of events on offer. visitors to strike their very own new £1 coin in January 2017 before it was released into circulation a couple of We can’t wait to welcome you back very soon and months later. More recently, visitors were able to strike will continue to update our website and social media their own ‘Withdrawal from the EU’ 50p exclusively on channels with more information when available.

CARDIFF TIMES 41

Youthful Memories of Playing Pitches (Good and Bad)

By Michael James

In recent articles I have been reminiscing about my early

blue scars’. When they were first constructed, the levelled-

days, growing up in the higher reaches of The Rhondda

out pitches had of course been tufted or sown with grass

(Fawr) Valley. I was born in Ton Pentre, one of the few

seed, which had to be renewed at the end of each season.

Valley communities that didn’t have a rugby team. Football

A nice green pitch never lasted very long, except at the four

(Soccer) was our game and we played it at every opportunity

corners of the pitch around each corner flag, a reminder

we had during daylight hours, out on the street or rear lanes

of how things should be. Then of course, when it rained it

(gullies) with our coats laid down as goalposts. Each game

was like playing on a sea of wet coal dust which made the

went on for hours, or until we were called in for our dinner or

old leather balls only heavier and messier than usual. The

supper. The only time that play was halted was on a Sunday,

professional soccer players didn’t fare much better! Many of

when all outside games were frowned upon or if it rained

the old 1st division and nearly all those in the lower divisions

heavily, which was quite frequently. These games, with

were just fields of deep mud, when it rained (check out the

unlimited but equal numbers on each side, were played with

games of the 1950’s -1970’s, on TV). One notable exception

homemade balls made of old newspapers or rags stuffed into

was the old Ninian Park, whose good drainage nearly always

an old towel roughly moulded into the shape of a ball. If we

gave the City (and Wales) players a good surface.

were lucky, we upgraded the towel to a pig or cows’ bladder, obtained from the local abattoir (or slaughterhouse as we called it). Neither version of the balls rarely lasted for more than one game as we played with steel toe-capped boots.

My team, Pentre Boy’s Club, was luckier than most, for like, Darren Park, Ferndale F.C.’s home ground, our pitch was made of the modern (1950’s) all-weather, red ash surface.

Our home pitch allowed us to play, whatever the conditions,

Towards and after the end of the 1939-45 war, proper

with only two problems. When it was wet, the pitch became

footballs become available, but these were a luxury. They

extremely uneven as the water made large channels as it ran

were a joy to play with, except when they became wet and

to the side-lines and when it was dry, the ball moved so fast

turned into a small version of a very heavy medicine ball. It

along the ground or bounced higher than anticipated. This

improved our ability to kick but it was almost like a cannon

was an advantage to us as it took visiting teams until half

ball to head. That was only for the very brave and I soon

time to work out how to control the ball and by that time, we

learned to avoid heading if I could. We thought little about

were usually two goals up.

it then, but it is a very topical subject today and thought to be a contributory factor of dementia in later life as many of the professional footballers of that time and even those playing up into the relatively modern era, have suffered and subsequently died from the disease.

Then came two seasons of luxury. During my time of National Service in the Royal Air Force, based in Gloucester at RAF Barnwood. Our home pitch was just up the road at RAF Innsworth where all the pitches were well-drained grass and goal posts with nets and wonderful changing rooms with

As well as the luxury of having a proper leather ball to play

hot showers. We played at other RAF Bases all over the

with, those who were lucky enough to play for their local

South West of England, which all had similar facilities, the

village, or school or boys club teams, had proper pitches to

best of which was at RAF Chivenor, North Devon, where we

play on. Even then, like many of the valley communities,

played (and lost!!) in the final of the Fighter Command Cup.

most of these playing pitches were not of grass but of coal

Happy days and always, great after-match hospitality.

dust which left many of us players with the traditional ‘miners

42 CARDIFF TIMES

A special mention too goes to the late Mr. (Ken?) Harries, who lived on the corner of Bruce Street and Fairoak Road, who collected the scores from all the games and relayed them to the South Wales Echo and the Western Mail for publication and somehow, even got them printed into the local edition of the National, Sunday Express, sports pages. Fame at last for Cardiff’s would be stars!!

All the Cardiff grounds had grass pitches, great in the early and late part of the season, but which became a sea of mud from November to April and made playing with the wet old leather balls a nightmare and a hazardous venture.

Retuning to civilian life and work with Cardiff City Council, I joined the City Hall football team, Cardiff NALGO (named after our Union sponsors). We played in the Cardiff Combination League and our home ground was at the Blackweir playing fields, where we enjoyed the benefits of changing rooms with hot showers and grass pitches, already erected goal posts but, no nets! We played our away games at pitches all over Cardiff, which I am sure will be familiar to many of you. Pontcanna, Llandaff Fields, Glan Taf School, The Glider Field, Llanishen, Hailey Park, Caedelyn Park, Ty Glas Road Playing Field, Heath Park, Tremorfa Park, Splott Park, Llanrumney Playing Fields, The Marl, in Grangetown, and of course the many number of pitches at the old Ely

I remember one game in Cadoxton, being stopped when our goalie nearly being drowned when he dived into a pool of muddy water to save a goal.

To make matters worse, not only did we lose the game, we had to endure cold showers afterwards! The lack of hot or, more often or not, no showers after the game at most of the grounds we played on brought its own problems for me. At the time I was playing for Cardiff NALGO, from 1960 until I ‘retired’ in 1976, I was not living in Cardiff and had to travel on bus or train from my home in the Rhondda Valley and, later from Llantwit Fadre, near Pontypridd. Just a quick, cold, wash of face, hands and knees then homeward bound with clothes clinging to the white bits.

Racecourse. We even travelled to play some cup games

I quickly found a solution. Dress in my playing kit, cover with

at Cwrt-Y-Vil, Penarth, Cogan, Dinas Powys and Cadoxton,

a track suit, with street clothes in my kit bag. Once the game

Barry. Of them all, probably the most memorable was,

was over, wash hands and face, cover dirty kit with track suit

The Marl. The pitch itself was reasonable but the weather

and head into the old Empire swimming pool in Wood Street

was usually deplorable, with a strong wind off the Channel

where I could pay to have a lovely hot shower, dump muddy

blowing the heavy, icicle cold rain, almost horizontally across

kit into my bag and dress to travel home on the train from the

the pitch. I can’t remember if there were changing rooms

Central Station. Perfect! In my latter playing days, I owned

with any kind of showers, but I do remember the home team,

a small car, in which I could travel to and from each game in

Grange Albion, running out, fully changed and fuelled up,

my clean and subsequently, muddy kit, cover with the trusty

from the public house which was immediately across the

old track suit, having first removed my boots, of course.

road. No hospitality for us, before or after the game, but plenty of hostility and heavy tackles during it!!

The young players of today still get muddy when it rains but their playing pitches are much better and, as for the showers,

Allow me to pause here for a moment, while I remember. A

baths and changing rooms, well.......? Good luck to them. I

huge thank you to all the Cardiff City Council parks staff,

bet they are eagerly looking forward to playing their matches

groundsmen and parks superintendents, for keeping all the

now that Lockdown is easing. I just hope that they get as

above-mentioned pitches and changing facilities in good

much enjoyment out of playing as we (I) did. Talking about

order, despite the often-deplorable conditions. We couldn’t

Lockdown, my Wife and I have just received our second

have played without your hard work. Also, a mention for

vaccines and are looking forward to getting back to normality,

all the teams’ committees, secretaries and managers, all

whatever that may mean. Praying that you and all you love

unpaid, who kept everything running smoothly behind the

will be kept safe and well. God Bless.

scenes and on match days.

CARDIFF TIMES 43

DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS Broken Glass Replacement Misted Glass Replacements Faulty/Broken Hinges Locks, Handles Pa�o Door Problems Draughty/Leaking Windows, Doors Conservatories Ca�laps, Le�erboxes

* * * * * * * * * *

*

* * * * * *

*

New Door Panels Stained Glass Repairs and Replacements Glass/mirrors of all types cut to size uPVC New Windows/ Doors Installed Upgrades to Locks and Handles Fascias, Gu�ering, Clading Coloured Composite Doors

For a Free Quotation by a Reliable, Competitive Company Servicing Cardiff

02920 566694 / 07950 027826

Email: Decostains@aol.com Web: www.doubleglazingrepairscardiff.co.uk facebook.com/Decorativeglasscardiff/

65

Unit 3, Western Business Centre, Robert Street, Ely Cardiff 65 CF5 5AS

Fensa approved Reg: 31498

Two young women in Cardiff make a name for themselves through the usage of social media

Abbie Walsh-Greenfield and Briony Devereux-Batchelor discuss their life behind the lens in lockdown and the power of influencer culture

By KellieWilliams followers in an effort to destigmatise conversations around mental health.

“It’s not something I’ve shied away from at all, and I think it’s really important for me to share that with my audience. If I’m having a down-day I’ll just say, ‘I’m really sorry, I’m having a down day I’m not going to be as active today.’”

‘It’s important to be realistic’ Lockdown has been a challenge for Abbie, who has been living at home with her partner and their dog. Aiming to start her day at 9am to incorporate structure in her week, Abbie gets to work on her social media platforms. Although Abbie stated that if she doesn’t make it up for nine, she doesn’t

An advocate for loving yourself, Abbie Walsh-Greenfield shows off her new hairstyle. Credit: Abbie Walsh-Greenfield The term ‘Influencer’ is a job role described as a form of social media marketing involving endorsements by those

punish herself for it, after all, we are in a pandemic.

Depending on whether it’s a food shop day, Abbie decides on whether to wear “mask makeup” or go all out with a full face. Mask makeup includes a half face of makeup covering

with expertise and large online followings.

the eyes and forehead. A full face can take Abbie up to an

Abbie Walsh-Greenfield, a 24-year-old married influencer

makeup look is camera ready for shooting content.

has skyrocketed to fame in Cardiff following her stance on celebrating the human body for all of its lumps, bumps and uniqueness.

Fed up of seeing models and mannequins that fail to represent her body type, Abbie took to social media to be the model that women from all over the world desperately needed.

“If I would have seen someone like me on social media when I was younger, things would have been slightly different; I would have seen myself in a different light, and for me that’s what it’s all about.”

With 30.5K followers on Instagram, Abbie is flying the flag for plus size women and body acceptance. Abbie openly discusses her mental health and wellbeing with her

46 CARDIFF TIMES

hour to get ready in the morning, ensuring her hair and Abbie’s new, glitzed out dressing room and work area.

Credit: Abbie Walsh-Greenfield

Down time After her day of shooting content, working on her new business and interacting with fans via social media for around six and a half hours, Abbie said she enjoys spending time with her husband and their dog. The trio take relaxing evening walks around South Wales, or as she called the Vale of Glamorgan, “Gavin and Stacey land”.

Returning home to a night of Just Dance and drawing designs for her next upcoming website plans, Abbie treats herself with her recently found favourite snack, a bowl of mint choc-chip ice cream.

The big move Briony Devereux-Batchelor is a 28-year-old fashion and wardrobe stylist from Manchester who also takes on clients Abbie showing how to work the camera.

Credit: Abbie Walsh-Greenfield After leaving her job in September last year, Abbie said she feels privileged to be working from home in her newly decorated glitzed out dressing room during the pandemic.

We deserve fashion too!’

Abbie’s content shoots take hours of her time and multiple outfit changes that she said can be exhausting but admitted, if she’s not feeling up to it, she will not feel guilty about putting it off for the following day.

for personal dressing. Briony is the girlfriend of Cardiff Blue’s player Sam Moore and has a 3.5K following on her Instagram as a fashion influencer.

Due to her partner’s career move, Briony made the big decision to relocate to the capital in July 2020 and brought her fashion expertise with her. The move was a struggle for Briony who put love at the forefront of her priority list, resulting in her re-branding her career in another city.

Her work left on hold, Briony decided to start over and re-vamp her brand, deleting her Instagram page. With new ideas and new creations in the making, her large fan base

“I try to shoot five outfits in one day; my husband is my

is slowly connecting with her new Instagram site, to follow

photographer and he absolutely loves it too,” she giggled.

Briony on her journey in Cardiff.

A lover of sustainable fashion, Abbie said she is constantly

Briony works with many online brands to showcase clothing

seeking plus size clothing on Depop. Adding, “It is important

items and accessories to her fashion loving followers. A

to acknowledge that plus size fashion is inherently

unique income that allows Briony to have flexibility within

unsustainable because we have less options.”

her working week.

After doing her research Abbie has begun launching her

Ditching the glam

very own clothing brand during lockdown called Dream 0n.

Starting her day around seven or eight; Briony’s routine

The new brand is inspired by her favourite body positivity

is largely centred around her partner’s commitment to his

advocates; including singer Lizzo and her favourite book,

job role as a rugby player. With the house to herself Briony

Fattily Ever After by Stephanie Yeboah, a book that she

said, “The first thing I want in the morning is a cup of tea

admitted to reading twice.

and something to eat and then I can get ready for my day.”

On the website you can purchase anything from greetings

Unlike her Instagram suggests, Briony has ditched the glam

cards and prints, to her best seller Fat Babes Club Socks

throughout lockdown and only wears makeup twice a week

featuring her Dream 0n logo. Sizes range from XS to 6XL in

for content shoots. Not one to enjoy the makeup process,

a declaration of ‘size inclusivity.’

she admits that it only takes her around half an hour to get

Eager to ditch the toxic positivity on social media, she said,

ready in the morning.

“My main message is all about self-acceptance. I try to show

On a non-shoot day, Briony will rock a casual striped long-

myself authentically and honestly, and I incorporate my

sleeve t-shirt and leggings, a casual look for the glamorous

message into my fashion.”

fashionista. However, preparing for a shoot day takes two

CARDIFF TIMES 47

days-worth of preparation.

“I have to be creatively in the right mindset to get everything out of my wardrobe and have a look at what I’ve got; then I can create an outfit,” she said. A lengthy process, not for the faint hearted.

Shooting content takes five to six hours of work; from-theget-go, Briony must choose the correct location, check the weather for the day and change into several outfits inside her car. After working the camera, Briony must ensure she has the shot that is worthy of her Insta grid, to gain the likes needed to keep up her influencer status.

“As fun as it is, it’s just as frustrating; it’s really hard work, especially as I tend to have one eye open on the pictures and the other one slightly closed the whole time,” she laughed.

Capsule wardrobe Moving her work online, Briony admits she’s not a fan of the

Briony flashing her jewellery for the camera.

Credit: Briony Devereux-Batchelor

Zoom life but said she is grateful to still be in contact with her

memorable items and treasuring them. She described how it

clients in her hometown Manchester.

can be difficult to let things go till someone tells you that you

Making a hoarder’s nightmare easier, Briony asks her clients

no longer need it.

to take apart their wardrobe, so that she is able to visualise

Desperate for the lockdown to end and return to her face-

and question the client on why they want or need the item.

to-face work role, Briony said, “It’s just not the same when

“What’s this for? Why do you wear it? How often do you wear it? Does it fit? And if they’re like ‘oh it’s like past 20-yearsold,’ I’m like, ok, get rid of it!”

Briony said that she understands the mindset of keeping

you’re not there in person with a client, you can’t connect with them.”

A classic evening After the working day, Briony enjoys a 20-minute downtime to ease her anxiety and overly active mindset. A firm favourite is listening to Classic FM to bring back fond, soothing memories of her childhood.

“My sister plays the piano and when I was younger and living at home, I remember coming back from school, and my sister would be playing the piano, and because my bedroom was right above the hallway, I just remember liking it.”

Briony and her partner are both fans of HelloFresh, the fresh fruit and veg delivery box. The couple order a box a week in order to plan their meals in advance due to Sam’s rigorous training, a routine schedule that allows Briony to enjoy a relaxing, carefree evening.

Eager to settle more into living in Cardiff after lockdown, Briony said, “I love that Cardiff has both city life and greenery, the best of both worlds. Everybody I’ve met in Cardiff has been very welcoming and really lovely and I’m

Cardiff’s new fashion inspiration, Briony Devereux-Batchelor.

Credit: Briony Devereux-Batchelor

48 CARDIFF TIMES

excited to build my workspace here and meet new friends in the same industry.”

A Family Run Business for over 50 Years!

Tractors • Ride-on’s • Lawn Mowers • Brush Cutters • Chainsaws • Spares • Grass Seed • Fertilisers, etc

LARGEST DISPLAY OF MACHINERY IN THE LOCALITY - DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL! PART EXCHANGE AVAILABLE - GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE DETAILS

QUOTE CT21 FOR UP TO 30% OFF IN STORE! “SOUTH WALES ONLY HONDA PREMIER RETAILER”

info@celticm.co.uk

www.celticmowers.com

01792 641517

CELTIC HOUSE, FABIAN WAY, SWANSEA, SA1 8QB



  

Is Your Roof In Need Of Repair Or Renewal? then contact

S R PHILPOTT ROOFING SERVICES THE SPECIALISTS IN : Flat Roofing • Slipped Slates Slating/Tiling • Gutterings Property Maintenance Chimney Stacks Stone & Brickwork Repointing

Very Competitive Prices Reduced Rates For OAP`s All Work Undertaken By Experienced Craftsmen Free Guttering With Every Full Roof Undertaken

Please ring for a free estimate/advice with no obligation.

No Job Too Big Or Too Small

 

Tel : Mr S R Philpott 01443 842779 Mobile : 07798 637119

43 Oxford Street, Nantgarw, CF15 7ST

24 Hour Callout

CARDIFF TIMES 49

£12 £12 £12

31

31

CARDIFF TIMES 51

Unmasking a Local Lockdown Superhero:

Charity fundraiser for brain injury charity ‘Headway Cardiff & South East Wales’

By Natalie McCulloch

This year has been a year of adaptions, transformations and challenges for us all; but for the millions of people living with brain injuries challenges such as these are regular encounters.

According to the national brain injury charity ‘Headway’, In South Wales alone, there are over 10,000 people attending hospital annually with head injuries sustained through illness or accidents.

Brain injury can affect anyone, it does not discriminate but is more common in people who are already disadvantaged, particularly young men.

The physical, cognitive, mental and sensory challenges which can result from brain injuries can affect people in a variety of ways such as leaving people disadvantaged economically, socially isolated and at risk of homelessness.

Statistics show that 1/3 of brain injury survivors are diagnosed with depression in the year following injury and 15% of marriages break down within 2 years following a brain injury. Further to this almost 50% of male prisoners have had a traumatic brain injury (Headway, 2017) Headway Cardiff & SE Wales charity offers survivors and their families’ essential information and invaluable support to maximise their independence and minimise the negative impact on their health and wellbeing. They work closely with other services to ensure 52 CARDIFF TIMES

people are offered information at the earliest opportunity following their brain injury. They run zoom sessions throughout the week to keep people with brain injury connected, including Tai Chi and singing sessions, send out weekly activity packs, make regular phone calls to those who may benefit from them, and when restrictions allow, will run weekly walking/wheeling groups at 5 venues in South Wales, as well as continuing to support people to claim Welfare Benefits!

As with many charities and organisations, the pandemic has hit them hard due to reduced fundraising opportunities and decreased opportunities to engage with people due to the

Judith is no stranger to going the extra mile for a cause close to her heart and has fundraised for Headway previously by braving the icy cold water of Barry Island for the New Year’s Day dip.

Also, she did fundraising for Velindre whilst her son was treated for a brain tumour there 3 years ago.

Headways Chief Executive Officer, Rebecca Pearce, told me

closure of groups and clubs. However, Headway continues to strive for a standard of excellence for their service users and families.

One brain injury survivor, Judith Dutton from Barry, had the great idea to raise vital funds for a charity close to her heart during lockdown by providing people with personal customised masks to keep them safe and support others safety too.

Judith told me that “Since March 2020 in the first lockdown, Headway Cardiff have kept supporting all service users via regular texts. I had been enjoying making masks for my family but I didn’t want to make any money from this awful situation everyone had to deal with. They agreed I could sell them to raise funds for them. I had a brain haemorrhage in 2012 and they have supported me since. I have met some amazing friends due to their ongoing activities, also I thought that during lockdown all the fundraising for them would stop” Judith makes amazing, customised masks in 3 different sizes – small adult/child, medium and large, she can also make extra-large ones ideal for men with beards! In her words “Any request I will try to help” The masks are a bargain at just £4 each with profits going directly to Headway, so far she has nearly reached £1,000 and she intends to continue making them as “we all still have to wear masks for now!”

“We’re so grateful to Judith for all her amazing efforts to fundraise for us. She has set up a one woman industry making the most beautiful masks for friends and generating donations in return, raising over £650.

Despite the challenges she has to contend with as a result of her brain injury, she still commits her energies to helping others.”

I can personally vouch for the amazing quality and efficient delivery of these masks as I have purchased several for my loved ones including one with an anime character on, another with cats on for a feline friendly friend and one for a crossword loving family member! All recipients were thoroughly happy with their mask and pleased it helped support such a great cause.

If you would like to help out a great cause and get an essential item for yourself or others - please purchase a mask by contacting Judith directly on her Facebook page: Judith Pycroft Dutton Also please spread the word if possible!

For more information about Headway or Brain injury please log onto: https://headwaycardiff. com/biinfo/ Or contact the friendly Headway team on: • 02920 577 707 • Email: info@headwaycardiff.org.uk • Opening Hours: Monday – Friday 9:00 – 17:00

CARDIFF TIMES 53

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

56 CARDIFF TIMES

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

CARDIFF TIMES 57

   No job too big or too small !! 

 

58 CARDIFF TIMES

   

    

Have pride

YOU’VE GOT THE SKILLS.

Build connections

WE’VE GOT THE OPPORTUNITIES. ALL WE NEED IS YOU. Improve Well-being

Volunteer with your local SSAFA team We need your skills at SSAFA Cardiff & Vale of Glamorgan branch to continue making a lasting difference to the lives of serving personnel, veterans and their families.

Increase Self-esteem

We are in need of a range of volunteer roles, including Assistant Branch Secretary and Branch Treasurer. All backgrounds and experiences are welcomed, and a military background is not essential.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT A VOLUNTEERING ROLE THAT WILL VALUE YOUR TALENTS

Contact SSAFA Cardiff & Vale of Glamorgan branch on 02920 383 852 or visit www.ssafa.org.uk/cardiff-valeglamorgan Registered as a charity in England and Wales Number 210760 in Scotland Number SC038056 and in Republic of Ireland Number 20202001. Est. 1885. S604.1220