Cardiff Times - January 2023 by Cardiff Times Magazine

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January 2023

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cardiff times new year A5.indd 1

05/12/2022 12:07

CARDIFF TIMES CARDIFF TIMES PUBLISHER Cardiff Times

EDITOR PUBLISHER Louise Denning Cardiff Times PUBLISHER 07903 947594

Cardiff Times FEATURES EDITOR EDITOR EDITOR Mark Denning Louise Denning Louise Denning 07758 247194 07903 947594 SALES & MARKETING FEATURES EDITOR FEATURES EDITOR Beth Mark Denning Mark Denning beth@cardiff-times.co.uk 07758 247194 SALES & MARKETING CONTRIBUTORS CONTRIBUTORS Beth Wyn Evans, Vince Nolan, Wyn Evans, Vince Nolan, beth@cardiff-times.co.uk Sara John, Carl Marsh, Sara John, Carl Marsh, Michael Fogg, Kellie Williams, Lisa Liz Mullen, RalphPryce-Jones, Oates, Natalie McCulloch, CONTRIBUTORS Jen Abell Molly Dutton, Ralph Wyn Evans, Vince Nolan,Oates, Sara John, Carl Marsh, Natalie McCulloch Michael Fogg, Kellie Williams, Ralph Oates, Natalie McCulloch, Jen Abell

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

EDITORS LETTER

Welcome Welcome CARDIFF TIMES

EDITORS LETTER

Hi All, and welcome to our November issue.

It only seems like yesterday we were completing our last issue but a month has moved on since. Time really does fly by. Covid seems to be doing it's rounds in schools in Cardiff, especially at ourAll daughter’s primary but luckily, we know of no-one who Hi and welcome toschool, our January issue. is ill with the Thank goodness Hi seriously All, and welcome tovirus. our November issue. so many people havesincerely received hope vaccinations. We everyone had a fabulous Christmas and It only seems like yesterday we were completing our last issue but spent �me relaxing and socialising friends and family. October is always a quiet month for really uswith in terms of by. birthdays, a month has moved on since. Time does fly Covid celebrations just it's going out in This couldespecially be because seems to be or doing rounds in general. schools in Cardiff, at PUBLISHER 2022 was another challenging for many, with a number we starting to think about the chaos and non-stop activity our are daughter’s primary school, butyear luckily, we know ofAll, no-one who Hi and that welcome to our N Cardiff Times is the December and mentally preparing ourselves for a seriously illofwith thefamilies virus. Thank goodness so many of diﬃmonth cul� es facing across the country, notpeople least certain celebration, or it could just be we haven’t been invited to like yesterday have received vaccinations. It only seems the cost-of-living crisis. Let’s hope this year weasee things go anywhere! month has moved on since EDITOR October is always a quiet month for us terms ofwith birthdays, improving and less people having toinstruggle hea� and it's round seems to ng be doing Louise Denning celebrations or just going outcelebrating in general.our This couldour be daughter’s because This month though, we'll be daughter's birthday. primary scho food bills. 07903 947594 we are starting to think about activity that Not sure what she wants to dothe or chaos where and she non-stop wants is toseriously go because ill with the virus. is the month of December andon mentally preparing ourselves for -a vaccinations. have received she keeps changing her our mind ideas to celebrate her big day We would like to wish long-standing contributor Sara John certain celebration, it could just beMark we haven’t invited sounds a bit like EDITOR herormum! (that was sayingbeen that by the to FEATURES ago speedy recovery from her recent illness, and October hope she is anywhere! is always a quiet mo way!). Markwri� Denning celebrations or just going ou back ng for us in the near future. This month though, we'll be celebrating our daughter's birthday. we are starting to think abou 07758 247194 And another celebration this month is the book launch of our Not suredelighted what she towho do or where she wants tothe goyear because is month talented writer Sarawants notthat content with providing us withof December an We are toJohn, announce for the second certain or it coul she keeps changing her mind on ideas to celebrate her big day an incredibly varied of articles,inhas now turned like hercelebration, handSALES & like MARKETING running wonnumber best magazine Wales. go anywhere! sounds awe’ve bit mum! (that was Mark sayingWe’d that by theto thank to writing her ownher book. Beth the team from the Wales Pres�ge Awards for choosing us. This way!). This month a� though, beth@cardiff-times.co.uk Last butisnot our third celebration goes to……. themonth magazine award forleast the tremendous team of writers who er we'll be Notaof sure what she wants to And another celebration this month is the book launch our and our talented writers. We have only gone and won best CARDIFF TIMES month dedicate �me to our readers to entertain you. They are her min keeps changing talented Sara content with providing us with magazinewriter award. It'sJohn, greatwho to benot recognised after allshe these years. sounds ahand bit like her mum! (t aA team andand totally deserve recogni� on. anphenomenal incredibly varied of every articles, now turned herand huge well done to number each onehas of our dedicated CONTRIBUTORS way!). to writing herwriters, own book. inspirational and a pat on the back for us, sometimes all Also, many thanks to itNolan, allafter theall! adver�sers who con�nue to Wyn Evans, PUBLISHER the hard work isVince worth Hi All, and welc Cardiff Times And another this Last not our third celebration goes to……. the magazine Sarabut John, Carl Marsh, support theleast magazine, simply put without you there wouldcelebration be It only seems li talented a month hasw m and ourcontinue talented to writers. We everyone, have only gone and won a bestwriter Sara John, EDITOR Please stay safe and until next month, seems to be do Michael Fogg, Kellie Williams, Louise Denning no Cardiﬀ Times. our daughter’s an incredibly varied number magazine award. It's great to be recognised after these years. 07903all 947594 happy reading. is seriously ill w Ralph Oates, Natalie have received to writing her own book. A huge well done to eachMcCulloch, and every one of our dedicated and FEATURES EDITOR Finally, a massive Happy New Year to all our readers, here’s to October is alwa inspirational sometimes all Jen Abell writers, and a pat on the back for us, Mark Denning celebrations or are starting 07758 247194 Last but notfor least ourwe third c hardbringing work is worth it after of all!wine, and a few athe 2023 joy, plenty more wins is the month of certain celebra Louise & Mark our talented writers. We SALESand & MARKETING go anywhere! the Welsh rugby team!! Beth magazine great to Please continue to stay safe everyone, and until next month, award. It'sThis month tho beth@cardiff-times.co.uk Not sure what A huge well done to each happy reading. she keeps an cha Un� l next month, happy reading. sounds a bit lik inspirational writers, and CONTRIBUTORS way!). a p Wyn Evans, Vince Nolan, the hard work is worth afte And it another ce Sara John, Carl Marsh,

Welco

Louise & Mark

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Last but not lea and our talente magazine awa A huge well do inspirational wr the hard work i

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January CONTENTS 6 Miscellany by Wyn Evans 10 Happy Ever After by Vince Nolan 14 In The Words Of by Carl Marsh 23 Your opportunity to study in 2023 25 Would you like to be slimmer, healthier and happier in 2023? by Lisa Pryce-Jones 28 Make 2023 the year you share the MAGIC of Little Fizz by Liz Mullen 32 Fashion done your own way by Molly Dutton 38 Rachel Bowes – a View on Boxing by Ralph Oates 41 Learn the Game of Bridge at Cardiff Bridge Club 44 Benthyg Cymru bringing communities together by Natalie McCulloch

Miscellany by Wyn Evans I thought it would be appropriate to see out the old year and ring in the new with an update on some of The Girl’s activities since starting her new school last October. My sixteen year old daughter left Cardiff High School after Year 11 to join Whitchurch High School’s sixth form. She was the first (and only) pupil at CHS with Down Syndrome whereas she has a larger peer group at WHS. Early signs have been encouraging; our daughter has settled well and has made some firm friendships. For their part, staff at WHS have told us how pleased they’ve been with her contribution to the work of the class. Of course, her out-of-school activities have continued apace too. In the national Trampolining League Finals, held at Stratford Olympic Park, east London, The Girl won silver medal in her class of six, against teams from across the country. The Boss and The Girl were at the venue at 1030 on the Saturday morning, having travelled up from Cardiff on Friday night. They were still going full pelt late afternoon/early evening. There were parades, march-pasts and ceremonies. It was a long and successful day! Then, representing WHS in the national schools’ trampolining finals, she won the gold medal. I include a picture of The Girl with her friends A and L celebrating their medals. Such a happy picture! The Girl wasn’t the only one gallivanting across the country. The Boss and I went to a three hour concert given by Sir Andras Schiff. He considered the influence of “the greatest composer”, JS Bach on the next greatest, WA Mozart, playing us plenty of the works of both. We stayed the night at the Paddington Hilton and we had uneventful journeys both to and from the capital. Fair dos to Great Western Railways. Rather than come to London with her parents The Girl slept-over at a friend’s house. We know that she had a fab time but it was very nice to receive the following message from her friend’s mum: “Your Girl has been such a wonderful, easy guest. She is so polite and cheerful she must definitely come again”.

told us that you’ve settled in really well to your new class; making lots of friends and working hard. Well done! TG: Thanks Dad, yes I like it there. Me: are there any class-mates that you are developing good friendships with? TG, excited: Yes! There’s I###, and D#### and M##### and J*** and... Me: Yes, J***! Your mum tells me that J***’s mother has phoned saying you and J*** want to go to a cafe together... TG, interrupting: ... Yes! Me: so tell us, what is he like, this J***? TG, who takes about 30 seconds of anguished thought: I don’t know what he likes to do but I can ask him tomorrow and tell you tomorrow after school [grins]!

The following conversation brought home to me that my daughter is very much her own person and that she has learned how to wind her dad up. I’m going to call this “Looking for love.”

Me: Sorry my love, I didn’t mean what does he like doing. I meant what is he like as a person; what does he look like; does he have a kind heart and a nice smile; is he tall or short; does he make you laugh?

Scene: The Girl, her Mum and me, having supper in the dining space.

TG: Oh! well [her girl friend] D#### and I often talk to J***. Actually, D#### and me dance for J***...

Me to TG: In your Annual Review today your teachers

Me, spluttering: (thinking ‘who is this Svengali?!)

6 CARDIFF TIMES

TG: I’ve got a lot in common with J*** we’re both looking for love... Me: I’d say that love has found you already. Mam and I love you, Nanna and Grand-dad love you, Rob and Jan lo ... TG: ... No, not like that; I mean looking for love like boyfriend love. I need to get a boyfriend. Me: I’ll help you find one [thinking ‘I’ll frighten them all away until she’s forty!”] TG: No dad, I can do it on my own. But [grinning at me!] if I can’t find one after a good look I will ask you for help and you can give me some love advice. TG, turns towards her Mum, laughing, says: See; Dad will give me love advice. Mum: (Speechless.) Me: (Gobsmacked.) She’s effectively telling me here that she’ll sort her own love life without parents butting in, whilst keeping me happy through the promise of an input if she decides it could help. All done through flattery, playing on my vanity, and my parental desire to protect her. She’s an Operator this one! Then she grinned at us and added ... TG: [Happily] “... it’s not a date, we’re just hanging-out”. May I leave the table please? I mentioned there her knowing how to wind me up. I’m going to call the following conversation “The Fellowship of the Ring”. Last Wednesday, The Girl came home from school, gave me her customary big hug and said... TG: Daddy can I tell you something? Me: Yes of course. TG: Well, today Not-My-Boyfriend-We-Just-Hang-OutTogether proposed to me and we got engaged. Look, I’ve got a ring too!

something is likely to set her off doing it, Daddy texts Mammy, who is for a change working from her office alongside the University’s Accounts staff rather than from her office in our box room. Mammy imparts good advice, immediately steering daddy onto the correct path.] Me: Right now both you and NYBYJHOT are both too young, You’re only 16... TG: ...I’ll be 17 in March... Me: ... yes, you will. But mammy was 25 when we got engaged and I was 30. So you’ve got plenty of time to get lots of experience and become an adult before settling down. TG: Yes. Anyway Dad, don’t worry; D***y (classmate and friend to both The Girl and NMBWJHOT) was just teasing us and pranking us about being engaged. But I do like the little ring though, I think I’ll keep it on for a bit. [We established that it was not a priceless heirloom or family treasure.] After this little drama, I busied myself, relieved, making her preferred, just-got-home-from-school, hot chocolate drink and, for myself, a very strong tea, with TWO fennel teabags. It struck me that one day we will be having such a conversation with our Girl for real. Let it not be soon. I’m just not ready for ‘MY precioussss’ Girl to be hitched until she’s at least 25 - or maybe 30. My daughter has attended a few xmas and birthday parties in the past couple of weeks. In each she has waited until everyone is dancing and then taken the microphone. During her Down Syndrome Youth Group she invited the whole youth group to her 17th birthday party next March. During classmate Maddie’s 18th she invited all her classmates to her 17th party too. At trampolining, she has invited all her clubmates to her 17th.

Me: No, you’re not getting engaged. Not-YourBoyfriend-You-Just-Hang-Out-Together is a very nice lad and I like him but you’re not getting engaged to ANYONE just now.

I’ve tried to suggest to her that these days most people wait until their 18th for their ‘big’ party. She’s having none of it and seems to be doubling down on having a mega 17th party. Ah well! Covid has severely limited party-going these past few years so maybe she’ll get what she wants yet. It’s fascinating watching her at these events with her friends; engaged, involved, talking and laughing, in no way missing her parents but secure in the knowledge that we were accessible if needed. She has opinions of her own which she has no problem expressing without being overbearing.

[Realising that telling The Girl she’s not to do

I love being a parent. Happy new year to you all!

(She waves her fingers in front of my face. Here began a three-hour hiatus whilst daddy had a heart attack, The Boss dialled 999, and some nice ambulance people came out to administer CPR to daddy.)

CARDIFF TIMES 7

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CARDIFF TIMES 9

‘And Another Thing...’

Happy Ever After ByVince Nolan Once upon a time there was a handsome Prince called Tom (Son and Heir) who travelled the world in search of a Princess (Qatar, Sydney, New York and Splott). It was difficult to meet a Qatari Princess and as for the Aussies, well Kylie was about as close they get to royalty Down Under. However, upon journeying to New York he met Princess Shannon. It was love at first sight. I lied about that bit. They met in a karaoke bar and she accused him of stealing her purse. Now when this came from an armed New York Cop, it did not bode well for future international relations. However, it seems that we will have future international relations (see what I did there) because, on a recent visit home, Prince Tom proposed to Princess Shannon at the romantic fairy tale location of Castell Coch and hurrah, she agreed to marry him. The above visit coincided with Wales playing rugby against Australia and so She Who Must Be Obeyed and I, along with the Prince and Princess attended the game, Shannon’s first. The highlight of the day was that unbeknownst to us, Shannon had learnt our National Anthem and was word and note perfect. Apparently, she had been playing it for weeks in her patrol car and her fellow officer had also learnt it by repetition. They must be the only two cops in New York who can sing our anthem (unless you know differently of course). All of which brings us round very nicely to the “TV star” formerly known as Prince (Harry). Apart from his self-appointed monopoly of mourning for his late mother, the fairy tale is complete because a prince of the realm brought up in palaces and married to a movie star has somehow become “a victim.” Oh Hollywood! Apparently, Meghan Markle once asked the Queen “What’s the secret of a long life?” To which the Queen replied, “Wear a seat belt and don’t annoy me, there’s a dear.” 10 CARDIFF TIMES

The Current Mrs Nolan and I were recently asked to leave Wren Kitchens because we were dancing all over the display units as per the advert. Some people do not have a sense of humour at all. She’s now gone and locked herself in the kitchen after an argument over how cheap and miserable I’ve become of late. She’s in there now, ripping all the plates in half. In a related dancing matter, we attended our Great Niece’s third birthday party complete with hordes of youngsters with seemingly inexhaustible energy charging round a local football club and dancing along to their very own DJ. Never one to be shy when music is being played, She joined in giving her interpretation of the Baby Shark dance (don’t ask).

She won first prize and here is the proof. Yes, the opposition were all three-year-olds but a win is a win and a life lesson for them. Ha ha. Staying with things musical and birthdays, sisters Patti and Mildred Hill wrote Happy Birthday To You in the 1890’s which is now owned by Warner Music. Alas these ladies were one hit wonders. They had little success with follow ups Happy Easter To You and Happy Thanksgiving To You but Warner make about $2m per year in royalties for public broadcasts of the song. Nice. So, what do penguins sing on a birthday? Freeze a jolly good fellow!

We spent a rather splendid weekend in Devon recently but the live pub music we had booked in to see was cancelled because England were playing football in the World Cup, apparently. My how we smiled (eventually). Our hotel also employed stealth cleaners. We popped down to breakfast one morning (I know, I spoil that woman) and upon returning to our room some 30 minutes later it had been cleaned and restocked. Never saw a cleaner and never heard a sound. Very impressive. Unfortunately, a hotel is only as good as its clientele. We were told by the wonderful staff at the above premises that some complainant had turned to Crypt Advisor to complain about his food. He was then joined by another 160 anonymous scumbags who had never visited the place. When the original complainant was challenged about his comments he said, “he was only joking.” I would have banned him for life. Mind you we ordered the venison loin which we thought was Bambi………a little dear.

Here’s a picture puzzle for you: Say what you see.*

Overheard a guy in the above-mentioned establishment saying he had just bought a Porsche Boxter sports car as he had sold an old Picasso. Now I am no art expert, but I figured the sale of a Picasso would have given him better options than a Boxter and enough change to buy a villa in the South of France. Turns out it was a Citroen Picasso he sold. The Leader of the Opposition’s boss showed up for work in a new Porsche. She said: “What an amazing car.” He replied, “Yeah - if you work really hard, put lots of hours in and strive for excellence at all times, I should be able to get another one next year.” Continuing the motoring theme, I recently attended a meeting with a client and the Government in North Wales. My client turned up driving a new £200,000 Bentley Bentayga 4x4. I suggested he park it around the back since we were there to ask for a grant for his business. Having said this, the Bentley website tells me that an optional extra for this vehicle is a Breitling dashboard clock for £102,000. Bargain. No doubt Harry and Meghan have many such clocks to go with their many faces. Finally, a request, please can we stop mangling the English language: • All that glisters is not gold according to Chaucer and Shakespeare. Apparently “glitters” has now been substituted for glisters (not Gary one hopes). • The proof is in the pudding. No it bleeding isn’t. The proof of the pudding is in the eating. • Look before you’re cheap. How true. • A trouble shared is a trouble doubled. • A bird in the hand is worth two in the b……… probably not. Happy New Year Chums. * Yep, Neighbourhood Watch.

CARDIFF TIMES 11

On behalf of everyone at St David’s Hall, we hope you had a wonderful Christmas, and once again we

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Cardiff Times January - Page 1 Editorial_Layout 1 22/12/2022 16:31 Page 1

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Cardiff Times January - Page 1 Editorial_Layout 1 22/12/2022 16:31 Page 1

On behalf of everyone at St David’s Hall, we hope you had a wonderful Christmas, and once again we would like to extend our huge thanks for your continued loyal support. As ever, we have a brilliantly diverse programme to fend off the January blues, and there’s much more to get excited about elsewhere in 2023 at the National Concert Hall of Wales. The month starts in style with the ultimate tribute to The King of Rock'n'Roll in A Vision of Elvis (Sat 7 Jan) as Rob Kingsley reels off all the hits from Suspicious Minds to The Wonder of You. Likewise, there are terrific tributes in the Johnny Cash Roadshow (Fri 20 Jan) and Luther (Fri 27 Jan). Plus, if you want the guitar amps cranked up to 11, look no further than The Classic Rock Show (Thurs 26 Jan) and Anything for Love: The Meat Loaf Story (Sat 18 March). Strictly addicts are in for a treat with Johannes Radebe (Fri 14 Apr), Giovanni Pernice (Sun 16 Apr), Nadiya & Kai (Sun 23 Apr) and Anton Du Beke (Sun 7 May), while opera fans can revel in the grandeur of Verdi’s Aida (Weds 1 Feb) and Puccini’s Madama Butterfly (Fri 21 Apr). The Hall is the place to be as ever for superb stand-up comedy starting with two nights of Stewart Lee (Tues 24 - Weds 25 Jan). Likewise, Paul Smith (Weds 6 - Thurs 7 Sept) performs two extra dates after his January shows sold out. There’s also panel show regulars Sara Pascoe (Sat 1 Apr) and Phil Wang (Sat 3 June), and Edinburgh Fringe favourites Foil, Arms & Hog (Fri 29 Sept). Plus, there’s quickfire gags in I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue (Sun 19 March), and the outrageous Haters Roast (Sat 8 Apr) won’t be for the faint-hearted with nine of the world’s biggest drag acts involved! There are huge names in the music world too. Soul superstar Billy Ocean (Mon 27 March) presents a career-spanning set, while James (Weds 26 Apr) play their most beloved hits and hidden gems with stunning, reworked orchestral arrangements. KT Tunstall (Mon 6 March), Ward Thomas (Tues 11 Apr) and Katie Melua (Tues 9 May) all air tunes off their brilliant new albums, while Gabrielle (Thurs 26 Oct) celebrates 30 years of her chart-topping debut single, Dreams. Also marking three decades in the music industry is Suzanne Vega (Sun 26 Feb), and there are the incredible velvet voices of James Williams (Thurs 23 March) and Alfie Boe (Thurs 10 Oct). Prog-rock devotees will love The Musical Box (Weds 15 Feb) and Mike + The Mechanics (Weds 10 May), while Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox (Weds 19 Apr) brings an innovative pop-jazz twist to modern sounds. Plus, there’s a chance to experience Tubular Bells (Fri 3 Feb) in its entirety with every note of Mike Oldfield’s classic album replicated with remarkable attention to detail for its 50th anniversary. There’s our usual healthy helping of breathtaking classical music too. The BBC National Orchestra of Wales perform a live accompaniment to Disney’s Fantasia (Sun 15 Jan) before returning for a special St David’s Day Celebration (Weds 1 March) and a Gaming Concert (Weds 17 May) featuring favourites from Fortnite to Fallout 4! Plus, our Cardiff Classical Series continues with the Philharmonia Orchestra (Sat 25 Feb) and The Hallé (Sat 20 May). On our 40th anniversary weekend, we’ve got Wynne Evans (Fri 17 Feb) and Prue Leith (Sat 18 Feb). For something a bit different, there’s the world’s greatest living explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes (Weds 27 Sept) and Turner Prize-winning contemporary artist Grayson Perry (Thurs 12 Oct), and it may be wise to book tickets for Zog (Weds 22 - Thurs 23 Feb) to keep the little ones entertained during the half-term holidays!

12 CARDIFF TIMES

Cardiff Times January - Page 2_Layout 1 22/12/2022 16:00 Page 1

JOHNNY CASH ROADSHOW From the Ashes 20.01.23

A VISION OF ELVIS 07.01.23

PRUE LEITH Nothing in Moderation 18.02.23

JOHANNES RADEBE Freedom Unleashed 14.04.23

DISNEY FANTASIA In Concert Live to Film 15.01.23

PHIL WANG Wang in There, Baby! 03.06.23

STEWART LEE Basic Lee 24.01.23 - 25.01.23

ZOG Live On Stage 22.02.23 - 23.02.23

SARA PASCOE Success Story 01.04.23

JAMES WILLIAMS One Night With You 23.03.23

THE CLASSIC ROCK SHOW 26.01.23

PHILHARMONIA ORCHESTRA feat. Sheku Kanneh-Mason 25.02.23

In The Words Of

by Carl Marsh

Happy New Year! I hope you all had a lovely Christmas and got to spend that special day after Santa had carefully squeezed down your chimney; the reindeers have not made too much of a mess on your roof, and that seeing a new reigning monarch's Christmas Day speech had you all glued to the screens!

INTRO RANT There's not much to moan about. The World Cup has been impressive. That final game is perhaps the best football spectacle I've ever seen. Qatar put on the best performance as a host one would expect. I have been to Qatar, and it's a fantastic place. A place I have never felt so safe, relaxed and excited about whilst being there. Some people - who have never been there - will pipe up and say I am being ridiculous, not to mention the [valid concerns about] workers' rights issues, antihomosexuality laws, and various other issues. Still, I don't work for Wales Online or the BBC. I don't want to. Cheers. Oh… and this flipping cold that's been doing the rounds! A few weeks for me now. And dizziness has started to happen every time I stand up. I hope you all have not been too bad. It shows how bad our immune systems must be after a few years of the strangest times. 14 CARDIFF TIMES

TV REVIEW The Old Man - Disney+ Rewind a few years, and you'd never expect a show of the magnitude to be on Disney+. Very realistic, immensely graphic - at times - of a violent and physical nature. A must-watch spy thriller with more twists and turns than the longest roller coaster in the world could throw at you! I admired the long camera takes when the fighting scenes were taking place; it added a lot to the natural flow of what you see. It ends on a cliffhanger. And I thought: "This can't be it? Surely?" I just discovered that the second series was green-lit after the season one premiere. Result! Now don't make me wait too long, Disney+, please…



TV REVIEW

INTERVIEWS

Tulsa King - Paramount+ - [For free if you have Sky Cinema]

JaackMaate's Happy Hour Podcast is coming to New Theatre in Cardiff on the 4th of February 2023, and I had the offer to interview JaackMaate and Robbie Knox, whilst the other podcast member, Stevie White, could not make it. And that is this month's interview: JaackMaate and Robbie Knox. Both are accomplished YouTubers with astronomical Subscribers, and this joint podcast is top-rated on YouTube and podcast download sites. They interview some of the UK's most famous people - sounds like what I do! - and get to chat between themselves. This tour is called The Round Sheep Tour and aims to be a right good laugh!

Sylvester Stallone is playing a character his own age. Who would have thought it? And for sure, he's an actor that some people take to; others don't. I'm the former - I think he's ace. A proper action hero type. In this show, it's hard to disbelieve this is how Mr. Stallone would be in real life, albeit not as the New York gangster he portrays. Set in Tulsa, as can be most probably worked out by the title of the show, it's so good; you'd have to watch it twice (each episode) as it's so fast-witted and majestic in its writing and delivery. I laughed quite a lot. Too much. This is my favourite show of this genre, just behind Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. So, have a watch, and let me know your thoughts via my social media.

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Until next month, Twitter - @InTheWordsOf_CM Facebook - @InTheWordsOf YouTube - InTheWordsOf

JaackMaate's Happy Hour Podcast is probably the most watched [YouTube] and listened to podcasts at the moment. JaackMaate and Robbie Knox had a little Zoom with me. Enjoy! Carl Marsh For this tour of The Happy Hour Podcast, you'll want to attract the current fans whilst also wishing to gain a lot of new fans that may have only heard - or not - about the podcast. So, how will it work for both the oldies and newbies? JaackMaate Do you want to go, Robbie, or shall I? Robbie Knox I don't mind. I'm happy to. I think there'll be a lot of stuff that is a lot of in-jokes that people who listen to the podcast will know, but there's a lot CARDIFF TIMES 15

of stuff in there that I think is pretty universal. Stevie does a thing called 'Urban Legends' about ghost story-type things. Things like that. We're gonna have a lot of audience interaction, things like 'Confessions'. When we did a sort of test show for this tour, that went down really well. So there will be many people who won't necessarily understand strange references to 'Guinea Pig Centipedes' and stuff. It's a bit for fans and newcomers as well. JaackMaate Yeah, when we did our tests before, we asked every audience member to write a confession [on a piece of paper] and put them in our sort of confessions box. During the break, we would go through them, select the best ones, and then react to them by giving advice, and we thought we'd probably have to make up some fake ones. Because we wanted them to be as extreme as possible, but we didn't have to do that. It turns out the British public is crazier than we could have even considered. [Laughter] Carl Marsh Because your podcasts are very topical and current, such as you've covered the World Cup quite a lot, because that's what's been current, will the tour be kind of linear in content, apart from what you've just said about that "Confessions box"?

about your contacts list between yourselves. I know mine is impressive, but seeing who you've had on your show is top drawer! JaackMaate Robbie, could you get Barack Obama?

JaackMaate

Robbie Knox

I think it'll follow a very similar format each night yet. Still, the difference being a different story suited to each sort of town and city we're in, so it will obviously be changed from city to city, but ultimately it will follow the same structure. We're still in two minds about whether or not we will bring guests out as well. So we can't confirm if we're going to do that or not. Because chances are, we might not, but the option is there to look at that as well.

I'll message him. He's quite busy, but for me… [Laughter]. Basically, because I followed Barack Obama before he became president on Twitter, he automatically followed people back. So, he follows me on Twitter; he follows hundreds of 1000s of people. Every now and then, someone is messaging me asking, "Why does Barack Obama follow you on Twitter?" And I just say: "Ah, we go back a while". [Laughter]

Carl Marsh

Catch JaackMaate's Happy Hour Podcast at the New Theatre on Saturday 4th, February 2023. See you there!

Now that would be class! I can only dream 16 CARDIFF TIMES

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Your opportunity to study in 2023 Eich cyfle i astudio yn 2023

Mynnwch ddwy ddwy awr awr yr yr wythnos wythnos yn yn ystod ystod 2023 2023i idanio danio Mynnwch eich dychymyg, gwella eich CV, dysgu rhywbeth eich dychymyg, gwella eich CV, dysgu rhywbeth newydd newydd ac eich ehangu eich gorwelion. Mae Prifysgol ac ehangu gorwelion. Mae Prifysgol Caerdydd yn Caerdydd yn cynnig cyrsiaui oedolion. rhan-amser i oedolion. cynnig cyrsiau rhan-amser Maent yn cael eu Maent yn cael eu sy’n cynnal ar adegau sy’n siwtio eich cynnal ar adegau siwtio eich ymrwymiadau gwaith ymrwymiadau gwaith theulu ergyflawni mwyn rhoi’r ichi a theulu er mwyn rhoi’ra cyfle ichi eich cyfle dyheadau gyflawni eichacdyheadau o ran dysgu tuag ac o ran ennill o ran dysgu o ran ennill credydau at gymhwyster. credydau tuag at gymhwyster. Mae Mae gennym gennym ni ni amrywiaeth amrywiaeth hynod hynod ddiddorol ddiddoroloogyrsiau gyrsiau yn cychwyn yn cychwyn yy gwanwyn gwanwyn a’r a’r haf haf hwn. hwn. Bydd Bydd llawer llawero’n o’n cyrsiau’n cyrsiau’n cael cael eu eu haddysgu haddysgu wyneb wyneb yn yn wyneb wynebtra trayybydd bydd cyrsiau cyrsiau eraill eraill yn yn cael cael eu eu cyflwyno cyflwyno ar-lein. ar-lein.

Os ydych chi’n derbyn derbyn budd-daliadau’r budd-daliadau’rAdran AdranGwaith Gwaithaa Phensiynau neu os os ydych ydych chi chi wedi wedi cael cael eich eichcofrestru cofrestruyn rhywun sy’nsy’n chwilio am am swydd ers ers chwe wythnos, neu yn rhywun chwilio swydd chwe wythnos, os chi’nchi’n perthyn i grŵp sy’n cael ystyried yn un neuydych os ydych perthyn i grŵp sy’n ei cael ei ystyried sydd gynrychiolaeth ddigonol ym maes yn unheb sydd heb gynrychiolaeth ddigonol ymaddysg maes uwch gallai eich cwrs fod yn rhad acfod amyn ddim. addysg uwch gallai eich cwrs rhad ac am ddim. Llwybr newydd at radd yn y gyfraith Llwybrgyfle newydd at radd yn y gyfraith Dyma cyffrous i ddysgwyr sy’n oedolion gael mynediad astudiaethau israddedig yn Ysgol y Dyma gyfleatcyffrous i ddysgwyr sy’n oedolion gael Gyfraith a at Gwleidyddiaeth ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd. mynediad astudiaethau israddedig yn Ysgol y Gyfraith a Gwleidyddiaeth ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd. Y gwasanaethau Addysg Barhaus a Phroffesiynol (CPE) sydd yn cyflwyno’r cyrsiau, a bydd myfyrwyr Y gwasanaethau Addysg Barhaus a Phroffesiynol (CPE) yn astudio’n rhan-amser mewn amgylchedd cyfeillgar sydd yn cyflwyno’r cyrsiau, a bydd myfyrwyr yn astudio’n a chefnogol. Bydd y rhan fwyaf o’r cyrsiau’n cael rhan-amser mewn amgylchedd cyfeillgar a chefnogol. eu haddysgu gyda’r nos er mwyn siwtio eich Bydd y rhan fwyaf o’r cyrsiau’n cael eu haddysgu gyda’r ymrwymiadau o ran gwaith a theulu. Rydym yn nos er mwyn siwtio eich ymrwymiadau o ran gwaith a croesawu ceisiadau gan fyfyrwyr sydd efallai heb theulu. Rydym yn croesawu ceisiadau gan fyfyrwyr sydd ymwneud ag addysg ffurfiol ers blynyddoedd lawer a efallai heb ymwneud ag addysg ffurfiol ers blynyddoedd does dim angen cymwysterau blaenorol. Mae cyngor ar lawer a does dim angen cymwysterau blaenorol. Mae gael hefyd ynghylch cyllid. cyngor ar gael hefyd ynghylch cyllid. Mae deuddeg maes pwnc arall hefyd ar gael yn CPE Mae deuddeg maes pwnc arall sy’n opsiynau o ran llwybrau at hefyd radd. ar gael yn CPE sy’n opsiynau o ran llwybrau at radd. I gael rhagor o wybodaeth am ein cyrsiau rhan-amser, llwybrau cyllid, ewch i’nein gwefan. Iein gael rhagora’n o wybodaeth am cyrsiau rhan-amser, ein llwybrau a’n cyllid, ewch i’n gwefan. https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/cy/part-time-courses-for-adults

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Would you like to be slimmer, healthier and happier in 2023? by Lisa Pryce-Jones

If your personal goals for 2023 include a desire to be slimmer, healthier and fitter…then read on because I can help you!

• let go of your limiting beliefs connected with food

If you have ever tried dieting, you will know that it simply doesn’t work long term. Very often you lose weight for a short while only to put it all back on again and sometimes even more!

• be satisfied with smaller portions

Diets don’t work because they focus on the wrong thing and are all about limiting or denying yourself what you link pleasure to, forcing you to associate them with pain and discomfort. This can make you feel miserable and once you’ve had enough of the frustration, you will give up on the whole thing and give in to your cravings which leads to a vicious cycle.

• Speed up your metabolism

This is not your fault and this is one of the reasons why the diet industry is worth billions. If diets worked, people wouldn’t need to keep buying the various products on offer! What if I told you that there was an easier and much more effective way to not just lose weight but also maintain your ideal body and lifestyle, whilst enjoying vibrant health!

So simply get in touch now to give yourself the best present you could ever give yourself in 2023... a small investment in yourself to achieve a happier and healthier new you!

• change the way you think about food

• re-set your eating habits • re-set your alcohol intake

• choose healthier foods • be motivated to be more active In short, I will help you to be slimmer – the easy way! By working on your conscious, subconscious and spiritual levels at the same time.

I look forward to speaking with you and helping you soon. Lisa

Once you master your mind, this lifestyle shift is freely yours… forever. No more fad diet plans, no surgery required, no expensive gym memberships, no bulky equipment taking up space in your home. You don’t need to pump your body full of pills and potions with potential side effects either. You can simply enjoy a healthy lifestyle with a body that you cherish, without denying or limiting yourself. I am offering you the opportunity to become the healthier and happier version of yourself with my bronze/silver/gold weight-loss programmes. The sessions are personalised to your needs and may include the Virtual Gastric Band too. We will be targeting the weight loss where you want it most enabling you to:

LISA PRYCE-JONES Hypnotherapist & Healer www.hypnotherapyandhealing.co.uk 07427 451992 lisapryce-jones@outlook.com CARDIFF TIMES 25

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Make 2023 the year you share the MAGIC of Little Fizz preschool Classes and give your child the BEST Birthday Party EVER with Party Fizz Children's Party Entertainment! by Liz Mullen We are super proud to be in our 17th AMAZING year of running multi-awardwinning Little Fizz Music, Movement and Play Classes (ages 0-4) Party Fizz Children’s Party Entertainment and Family Events! We recently won BEST INDEPENDENT CHILDRENS COMPANY IN WALES! Little Fizz Music, Movement and Play Classes run in Roath, Penarth, Heath, Llanishen, Llandaff North, Marshfield and Radyr with flexible attendance - book the hall and mix and match classes to suit your family! We are a very relaxed and welcoming class - everyone is welcome – the emphasis is on individual enjoyment, expression, and experience and on spending special time together! Little Fizz is a multi-award-winning, exciting, and engaging combination of music, movement and learning through play within a fun, relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Little Fizz is inspired by the excitement and energy with which little one’s approach life; a celebration that every child is unique and will learn and develop differently. The emphasis is on the physical and mental benefits of being active and on an enjoyable shared experience for parent/carer and child. Little Fizz has lots to offer parents, carers, and their little ones! The 40-minute classes are fun and lively with a variety of engaging activities, carefully designed to provide an exciting range of developmental opportunities for little ones, whilst recognising that all children develop differently, and that they learn best whilst having fun! Activities include a unique combination of music, movement, imaginative play, fun with props and instruments, parachute games, storytelling, sensory play, story massage and yoga inspired movement. Here is a recent review of our Penylan Classes: “I’ve been to a few different baby classes with the girls, but even I really enjoyed today’s session. I loved the variety and use of props, it was wonderful. As a former Primary teacher, I can see so much thought and planning you have done to make the sessions so engaging. One of my girls has started spinning on her bottom and trying to jump since today’s session!!I just wanted to share some positive feedback with you!! Can’t wait for next week’s session!” We offer 2 weeks of trial/taster classes so that you can experience Little Fizz for yourself – visit www.littlefizz.co.uk for info and booking. Party Fizz Parties: Our Parties are fun filled for children and stress free for adults! Parties are interactive, lively, exciting, energetic, and inclusive – so that every child has an amazing time! We will find out everything we need about your child, guests, theme,

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CARDIFF TIMES 29

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Fashion done your own way by Molly Dutton progression of her career, creating a space for a fun and individual take on fashion trends.

The New Year is on its way which can bring about many mixed emotions, particularly with the current economic climate of our country. When I think about entering a new year, I try and stray away from the often toxic idea of “fresh starts” and strict goal setting. Whilst there is a lot of good to be found in setting realistic goals for ourselves each new year, I do wonder whether it creates a pressure that makes them impossible to meet; it can create a lot of unnecessary disappointment which can never be good. Instead, I prefer to have a think about what new adventures I can embark on, from weekend trips to online courses and everything in between. Last month I had the pleasure of speaking to a very successful fashion stylist, Ellis Ranson, who really got me thinking about how to achieve new things and find joy in brand new career opportunities. Having started a new job this year, I strongly believe that engaging with new challenges and putting yourself out there can bring a positivity to your life that can’t be found elsewhere. Sat in my kitchen on a very dreary afternoon, the wonderful Ellis brought lovely positivity to such a miserable day. Having worked in the fashion industry myself (on a much smaller platform might I add), I felt an immediate connection to her passion towards her career. Starting off as an ice-hockey player during her younger years, Ellis changed her career intentions as a result of watching her family members engage with the fashion industry. She said, “My aunt was a press officer for Phillip Green. She used to come home with bags of Tammy Girl clothes, so that was when I started to get an idea of fashion. Her and my mum were both massively into fashion.” Like myself, the women in her life had a huge impact on the 32 CARDIFF TIMES

This unique interpretation of fashion continued as she progressed through school, guiding her decision to attend Haven Sixth Form College where she studied fashion. Whilst completing this course, which she called “the worst fashion course I’ve ever done in my life”, Ellis was doubted by her mentor, an interaction which could have stilted her career in the fashion industry if it wasn’t for her admirable resilience. She said of the conversation, “I remember getting called into the office by my tutor and she said we just don’t think fashion’s really for you. And I just thought, I don’t think it’s fashion, I think it’s this college. I don’t think I’m going to get anywhere in here.” This was a moment in our conversation that resonated a lot with me as, for so many young creatives, an unsupportive environment can massively prevent them from persevering with their career goals. It was after this that Ellis discovered the Fashion Retail Academy, a distinguished fashion college in London. She interviewed with them and left her college to attend. The atmosphere at the Fashion Retail Academy was so different to the fashion scene

in Essex, she said, “I started to really dress quirky. It was such a difference from being in an Essex college. I think I started to really find my own style”. She began to build a strong fashion portfolio and at 19 years old, Ellis embarked on an internship with Topshop, an extremely desired position for many in her age group at the time. This was extremely influential as Topshop was a standout fashion company throughout the 2000s. Across platforms, Ellis has gained success from her use of social media interactions, particularly on Instagram. Whilst she sees the positivity in this social media platform, Ellis has experienced the impact that it can have on its users, particularly developing stylists. She said, “I think sometimes you go on Instagram, and I think Instagram is one of the best things in the world, but it is also one of the worst things because you can get really caught up on it”. Meeting one of her main clients, Ferne McCann through the platform, the pair built up a strong relationship in which Ellis began to style the TOWIE star much more frequently. Ferne began liking Ellis’ Instagram content which prompted the young stylist to reach out. This confident interaction led to an invitation for Ellis to come and view Ferne’s wardrobe and create some potential looks for her. From this moment, she was given the opportunity to style a roster of celebrities

such as Kate Ferdinand on the red carpet of the National Television Awards and Pride of Britain, as well as demonstrate her creative mind at Glastonbury through the styling of Megan Mckenna. With a key focus of conquering the inclusivity of styling and breaking down the financial barriers that exist in the industry, Ellis began her own styling course, School of Style, on Instagram. She wanted all ages and genders to have access to styling, “it’s a six-week masterclass, it tells you all the real things that will get you into those jobs. Also, you don’t have to have a massive fashion background if you know style. And you don’t need a degree to be a stylist; you either have style or you haven’t, and it’s so personal as well.” In the upcoming future, Ellis has plans to adapt her ‘School of Style’ to become a TV series in which she can document the journey of her students on a national platform. It is a privilege to witness the personal care that Ellis has for the students on her programme and the extent that she goes to support their every needs. Fashion can be an extremely competitive and demanding industry yet she has found a part of it that can be enjoyed and shared amongst passionate individuals. You can see Ellis’ work documented on her Instagram, @ellisransonx. CARDIFF TIMES 33

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RACHEL BOWES - A VIEW ON BOXING by Ralph Oates

In this month’s boxing column I have interviewed Rachel Bowes who has a strong passion for boxing and indeed has contributed a great deal to the sport over the years. Rachel very kindly took the time to answer a series of questions about boxing, which includes her views on the sport and how her interest in the noble art first began.

Ralph Oates Where in Wales were you born? Rachel Bowes Cardiff, South Wales. Ralph Oates When did you first become interested in boxing? Rachel Bowes I grew up with sport and was interested in boxing from a young age mainly because my Dad was a fan. I became more actively involved in 2012. Ralph Oates I think I am right in saying you were the editor of a boxing Magazine. Rachel Bowes I own Bocsio Magazine and Fight Scene. Ralph Oates Have you ever boxed? Rachel Bowes I love to train for boxing and have sparred. Ralph Oates Have any members of your family ever boxed at any time? Rachel Bowes My Dad was a great fan of the sport, my cousin boxes, I have a niece and nephew who are involved in another martial art. Ralph Oates Do you attend many boxing shows?

38 CARDIFF TIMES

Rachel Bowes I’ve been to so many boxing events, both amateur and professional…. It’s hard not to go when the passion is there. Ralph Oates You very clearly enjoy the sport. Rachel Bowes I love the sport that has also helped me personally. I feel it will always be a big part of my life! Ralph Oates Do you believe that boxing instils discipline and respect? Rachel Bowes Definitely! As people know many boxers have a story to tell from the grass roots up, and boxing compliments a healthy lifestyle, confidence, motivation and discipline, it’s also a great way to control anger. Ralph Oates I assume that you have found boxers very polite. Rachel Bowes I have always found boxing athletes to be humble and respectful. Ralph Oates Women’s boxing is really taking off at the moment and is really hitting the heights, do you have a favourite woman boxer? Rachel Bowes Claressa Shields. Her record speaks for itself, and she is entertaining to watch. Claressa is a respected figure in boxing whose career I believe started from a bet and continued through personal growth and self-realisations.

Ralph Oates Women’s world boxing contests are held over 10 rounds, and it’s been suggested by some that the rounds should be increased. Would you like to see the rounds increased to 12? Rachel Bowes Personally, I feel that if a woman is physically and mentally sound, it is their choice. But also, I under-stand there are processes, rules and regulation in place for good reason. Ralph Oates There are a number of weight divisions in boxing. Which is your favourite weight division? Rachel Bowes Light Heavyweight and Cruiserweight. Ralph Oates Have you a favourite boxing movie? Rachel Bowes Yes, Creed which starred Michael B. Jordan and Sylvester Stallone. Ralph Oates Who in your view is the best boxer to have emerged from Wales? Rachel Bowes Joe Calzaghe who of course retired from the sport undefeated in 46 professional fights. He had an incredible career, often proving a number of doubters wrong along the way. Ralph Oates Who do you tip to become the next champion from Wales?

Ralph Oates I understand that you are now a Mindset Coach. That sounds amazing, what does this entail? Rachel Bowes Mindset Coaching is another area I have accreditation and experience. I recognise the massive benefits of sport which compliments a strong physical lifestyle and mental strength and understand the emotional support that is also needed in the competitive world in which we live. Ralph Oates What would you say was your mission? Rachel Bowes I would say that my mission is to add value and empower people to be the best they can be! Help men and women battling with their mind, who have taken a wrong path, to find clarity, and smash through challenges and re-claim their winning mindset! Ralph Oates You must find this a very worthwhile and rewarding thing to be involved in? Rachel Bowes Without a doubt I do.

On behalf of the Cardiff Times I wish Rachel every success in her future endeavours.

Rachel Bowes I’m keeping my cards close to the chest on this one, there is so much talent in Welsh Boxing.

CARDIFF TIMES 39

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We all understand the need to keep physically active throughout our lifetime. But keeping mentally active is equally important. The game of bridge can keep us challenged mentally and also provides good social interaction with like-minded people. There are many aspects to the game of bridge which all contribute to the continued fascination. Anyone can learn to play bridge and our bridge courses have been developed and refined by the English Bridge Union over the last 40 years. At Cardiff Bridge club, our bridge teachers are both experienced bridge players and fully qualified bridge teachers dedicated to helping you achieve your goal of becoming an active participant in your local bridge playing community. Cardiff Bridge club is an excellent venue for bridge teaching, spacious with good presentation facilities and other technologically advanced teaching aids. There are many bridge clubs in the South Wales area to choose from and you can play bridge at a local club every day of the week, weekend tournaments and you can enjoy a wide range of bridge holidays and cruises. In addition, you can play “online” 24x7x365! To find out more, book onto our free Bridge “taster” Session to be held at Cardiff Bridge Club on Wednesday 25th January 2023 at 14:00hrs. Or just book-up for the first 10 week term of 10 weeks starting on Wednesday 1st February 2023 14:00-16:00hrs and 16:30-18:30hrs respectively. The course fee for this course is £190 which includes “Beginning Bridge” course documentation. You also will receive associate membership of Penylan Bowling & Cardiff Bridge Club so you can enjoy all our club’s facilities. For more information or to book the course or the free “taster” session please email: teaching@cardiffbridgeclub.org or phone Sarah Amos on 07930 503746.

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Benthyg Cymru bringing communities together by creating a culture of environmental sustainability by Natalie McCulloch

We’ve all heard the saying ‘sharing is caring’ and during the Pandemic we saw a resurge in the neighbourly spirit of yonder years through ‘random acts of kindness’ such as people offering to help with chores that others were unable to do, neighbours buying groceries for those unable to get to shops and people donating time and skills to help others in need. Social media was showered with people asking for, or offering, assistance and the nation seemed to unite, in many ways, on common ground. According to government statistics, during the pandemic a record “33% of people surveyed had volunteered informally at least once a month, which is the highest percentage on record. People have helped one another across communities from getting a neighbour’s shopping and prescriptions, to looking after a friend’s children.” Leading on from this sense of community spirit and kindness come community interest companies such as Benthyg Cymru which have been established to help build communities and help individuals when they need it most to support and develop a Wales wide network of Libraries of Things. Benthyg Cymru is best described as Wales’ “Library of Things” and has one simple goal; to make borrowing easy. Benthyg (pronounced ben-thig) is a Welsh word meaning borrow or lend, so the name, and the aim, of the not-for-profit makes complete sense in this day and age. 44 CARDIFF TIMES

Current financial strains on the nation may mean that the cost of living may prevent some ‘non-essential’ purchases – but, thanks to places like Bethyg Cymru it doesn’t always have to mean missing out! These ‘libraries’ have been set up to provide benefit to communities around Wales by creating a culture of resilience and environmental sustainability that brings communities together to share items, knowledge and skills. Items available to borrow include gardening supplies, DIY tools, fitness kits, camping equipment and much more, all available to borrow for less than you'd expect to pay second hand, and with the opportunity to pay in time instead of cash. Popular items are carpet cleaners, gazebos, pressure washers & then seasonal items such as camping equipment. Each library will have their own inventory of items depending on what the local community needs/wants to borrow. Members may be charged for borrowing an item with all money generated from borrows going back into the project to fund repairs & upkeep of the inventory items. However, method of payment is negotiable. Payment methods include – Money, Time Credits or Skills. There is no charge for individual membership, but you may make a donation. Organisations, both commercial and not-for-profit groups, will be charged a small membership fee. They aim to ensure that everyone will be able to

borrow regardless of their situation so they have created a concession membership for borrowers who might not otherwise be able to borrow because they are unemployed, receiving government support, on a low income or receiving the state pension. If you’re unsure of how ‘best to borrow’, please don’t hesitate to give the friendly Benthyg team a call! Thanks to Libraries of Things in the Benthyg Cymru network people can access items at affordable prices which will hopefully enable people to do DIY tasks they’ve dreamed of, go on family camping trips without the full cost of a tent purchase as well as donating things they don’t need themselves to save space and help contribute to national waste reduction targets. As with a lot of organisations, their work wouldn’t be possible without their amazing volunteers. Since Benthyg Cymru's beginning, volunteers have been a valuable resource to both the service and the wider community. By volunteering, people are not only helping a local community through community involvement, they will also be developing new skills and broadening their own horizons. Libraries of Things offer a social meeting place where people of all ages and backgrounds can borrow and donate household items with skill sharing promoted through repairing and testing our items. They recognise and value those who have a wide range of hands-on practical and interpersonal skills and rely on its committed team of volunteers to deliver and maintain a high-quality and reliable service. Some of the skills needed to sustain Benthyg include the following: •

Hosting / Reception / Front of House (Helping members borrow things)

•

Social Media (Shouting about how awesome Benthyg is and what we have to offer)

•

Administration / Organisation (Helping keep us super streamlined and efficient)

•

Events (Organising really cool events to share skills and showcase our things)

•

Repairer / Fixer / Tester (work together to troubleshoot, fix and maintain our things)

•

Skill Sharer (plan and host practical events on DIY, sewing, gardening or upcycling)

like to get involved, drop the team a message today, your help would be extremely welcomed! There are now quite a few ‘Libraries of Things’ open across Wales, with interest growing and more libraries in development. Their vision is simply to create a Wales-wide network of Benthyg’s with a branch in every neighbourhood, so wherever you are in Wales, you can borrow whatever you need cheaply and easily. If you feel your local community could benefit from one of these libraries and you feel you would be the right person to set one up, that’s brilliant! You can contact the friendly team at Benthyg Cymru who have a tool kit to help an organisation/ group ‘set up base’ and offer support following this, as well as a network of members to share experiences with. One of the most recent libraries to pop up is Benthyg Splott which was set up using funding from National Lottery. This funding is only for a short time and they need more volunteers to support the ongoing success of the project as well as more people to utilise its service. Becky Harford, co-founder of Benthyg Cymru said: “We launched Benthyg Cymru to build strong communities based on sharing items, skills and neighbourly support as well as easing the financial burden so many of us are facing right now. Benthyg Splott is another example of the commitment Welsh citizens are making to each other, their local areas and the fight against climate change and we’re looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together.” Benthyg Splott is currently open on Wednesdays 102pm. They also offer free delivery/collection across Cardiff on a Friday 10-2pm. Similarly, there is another Benthyg based at ACE, Dusty Forge, Ely which is also covered by the mobile delivery service. If you like the thought of what you read and you want to get on board with borrowing, or help others to do so, please do not hesitate to get in touch, your help would be very much welcomed! Splott@benthyg-cymru.org

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Advert for Cardiff Times.pdf 1 15/12/2022 15:53:21

CMY

Cardiff Times - January 2023

Articles inside

Benthyg Cymru bringing communities together

Fashion done your own way

Would you like to be slimmer, healthier and happier in 2023?

Your opportunity to study in 2023

Learn the Game of Bridge at Cardiff Bridge Club

Make 2023 the year you share the MAGIC of Little Fizz

Happy Ever After

Rachel Bowes – a View on Boxing

Miscellany