MARCH2010 COVER
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LivingWales MARCH 2010
ISSUE 47
Made in Wales!
NEWPORT IN BLOOM MUSIC &THEATRE NEWPORT GWENT DRAGONS RUGBY WHAT’S ON LATEST FILMS LEARNING WELSH FOOD & MUCH MORE...
INTERVIEW We speak to Welsh musical theatre legend Michael Ball
EATING OUT
The Riverside Restaurant at The Rock & Fountain
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MARCH welcome & contents
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welcome Publishing Editor Nick Clarke nick@livingwalesmag.co.uk Assistant Publisher Anne-Marie Smith anne-marie@livingwalesmag.co.uk Advertising Glyn Harding glyn@livingwalesmag.co.uk Website Manager Phil Page webmaster@livingwalesmag.co.uk Production production@livingwalesmag.co.uk Accounts accounts@livingwalesmag.co.uk Contributers Jason Roberts, Michael Took, Patricia Clarke, Catrin Williams, Nick Jones, Meme Morgan, Gavin Watkins. Office telephone 01495 750600 Website www.livingwalesmag.co.uk
Living Wales magazine is part of the Out & Out Publishing Group Ltd, 2 Town Bridge Buildings, Park Road, Pontypool, Gwent. NP4 6JE
HINGS look to be on the up this month! The sun is shining and the nights are getting lighter - a sure sign that spring is on its way - hooray! At Living Wales, we are striving to put a spring in everyone’s step by featuring beautiful clothes for the forthcoming season and ideas on how you can while away days with friends or family by showing off your new spring wardrobe with a day at the races. Everyone's favourite singer and entertainer and all round nice guy, Michael Ball took time out of his extremely busy schedule to speak to me regarding his role as Edna in the touring production of Hairspray. His interview looks at how he landed the role as Edna as well as, probably his most famous role as Marius in the wonderful West End version of Les Miserables. I also delve into his outstanding musical career and discover what his most memorable moments throughout his life have been and his plans for the future. We have a special feature this month on the history of Pontypool indoor market, what it used to look like and how it stands today. In particular we speak to a number of stall holders to find out what they sell and how they see the future of this magnificent building. Our food review this month took place at the fantastic Riverside Restaurant situated at The Rock & Fountain Inn, Blackwood. We have our latest news on Gwent Dragons Rugby and a player profile on Kiwi Haoni Macdonald, this leads me neatly with a good luck message to the Welsh rugby team. I hope they do better in the than they have done in their last few games, when they take on the Irish and Italians in the next couple of weeks. Come on Wales!
T
Anne-Marie
Out & Out Publishing Ltd Managing Director Nick Clarke
Please note that all views of advertisers or individuals within the magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher. No image, editorial or advert contained within this magazine can be reproduced without permission from the publisher.
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MARCH welcome & contents
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10 6 What’s On
34-35 Music & Theatre
Your guide to what’s on this March.
The New Theatre in Cardiff is showing Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma; Swansea Grand plays host to comedian Katy Brand PLUS we have tickets for the WMC to be won.
8-9 Interview Interview with Welsh singing legend and star of the West End, Michael Ball.
36-41 Fashion 10-14 Visit Where the River Ebbw and Sirhowy meet, we visit the areas from Cwmcarn to Rogerstone and the towns in-between.
This month we look at what’s hot for both men and women to see them through the spring months and on into summer.
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42 Business 16-17 Special Feature The history of Pontypool Market and the traders today.
20-23 In The Home
The latest news from HOVIP, Heads of the Valley Innovation Programme.
43 Finance Advice from Gavin Watkins of Medina Lynch Chartered Accountants.
Bathrooms.
44-45 Dragons Rugby 24-31 Eating Out We review the Rock & Fountain in Blackwood, as well as a number of other suggestions for a meal out.
All the latest news from Rodney Parade plus our player profile of the month is New Zealand born Lock Haoni Macdonald.
46 Learning Welsh Phrases on Love and Rugby.
32-33 At The Movies Latest film releases including Alice in Wonderland starring Johnny Depp, Anne Hathaway & Helena Bonham-Carter; Green Zone starring Matt Damon & Greg Kinnear and Legion starring Paul Bettany & Dennis Quaid www.livingwalesmag.co.uk
48 Opinion Latest gossip from Meme Morgan
49 Places to Stay Fantastic places to stay home and away.
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WHAT’S ON
extraordinarily vibrant and popular project returns to Wales following the ecstatic response to two sell-out shows in 2009 and Cimarron's triumphant set at WOMAD festival.
MARCH 13th & 20th 6 NATIONS RUGBY UNION VARIOUS VENUES FOLLOW Warren Gatland’s men as they finish this years campain against Ireland on the 13th and the final game on the 20th against Italy, can Wales redeem themselves after losses to England and France and an unconvincing display against Scotland?
MARCH 11th ONWARDS ARTES MUNDI 4 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF WALES EIGHT artists from around the world have been shortlisted for Artes Mundi 4 - Wales' international contemporary arts prize. The intensive selection process involved Artes Mundi in receiving over 480 international nominations from more than 80 countries. The Shortlisted artists will each show a body of work in a major exhibition at National Museum, Cardiff. A separate, independent panel of five judges will award the Artes Mundi prize to one of the artists in May of this year.
MARCH 9th- 13th WELSH NATIONAL OPERA VENUE CYMRU
MARCH throughout A GOOD NIGHT OUT IN THE VALLEYS VARIOUS VENUES THE first production in what is set to be a busy year for National Theatre Wales, A Good Night Out In The Valleys has been meticulously constructured by writer Alan Harris and director John McGrath. The pair gathered stories from Miners' and Workingmen's Institutes in the space of a month and in turn the stories have created the basis for this new play. The cast is homegrown too; littered with heavyweight names from Welsh theatre and television including BAFTA Cymru winner Sharon Morgan, Skins actress Siwan Morris and sitcom stalwart Boyd Clack.
WELSH National Opera (in a co-production with Scottish Opera and the State Opera of South Australia) will be hosting a triple bill at Venue Cymru this March. It begins with The Abduction from the Seraglio, Mozart's classic singspiel featuring Wynne Evans (the omnipotent tenor from the Go Compare adverts) and Greek bass Petros Magoulas. The second is Puccini's fast-paced Tosca and the short residency will conclude with French composer George Bizet's most famous creation, Carmen.
MARCH throughout CATRIN FINCH & CIMARRON VARIOUS VENUES Celebrating the beauty and versatility of the harp music of Colombia and Cymru, this
MARCH 11th DAVE GORMAN ST DAVID’S HALL
MARCH 31st VENUE CYMRU
In 2009, Dave Gorman set off on a unique national tour. The intention: to cycle over 1,500 miles across Britain in 33 days with a gig each night. Demand for the show has been so high that he's decided to keep performing it, but this time without cycling from venue to venue. He's obviously getting lazy. So now only the last bit of the title makes sense. In summary - same show, just fewer blisters.
MARCH Throughout CHRIS CORCORAN - WHAT GOES ON TOUR STAYS ON TOUR! VARIOUS VENUES Following on from supporting Rob Brydon on his sell out Welsh tour, Chris Corcoran steps up to the headline slot with his latest
To find out about the latest arts events in Wales, visit
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WHAT’S ON show What Goes on Tour, Stays on Tour. As well as hosting a weekly radio show with fellow comedian Rhod Gilbert on BBC Radio Wales, Chris also enthrals younger audiences (and mums alike) on his Doodle Do show on CBeebies. What Goes on Tour, Stays on Tour showcases Chris at his cheeky, amiable best - giving his hilarious, if rather skewed view, on Welsh life and culture.
with its first UK performance in 2007, this award-winning show has gone on to achieve sell out seasons in London's West End, New York, Paris and Montreal.
tearing apart of broken love relationships, set to the music of the X factor generation. Plunge challenges dancers and audiences with a contemporary and bold show that has deeply contrasting new works, exquisite dance that is poetic and lyrical as well as sharp and sassy. The show comes to the Met Theatre in Abertillery in March and also The Blackwood Miners Institute.
MARCH 20th KAST OFF KINKS BEAUFORT THEATRE, EBBW VALE
MARCH 19th MARCH 15th-17th
TRACES WALES MLLENNIUM CENTRE Traces is not circus like you have seen it before. It is a high energy, dazzling display of urban acrobatics that combines traditional circus skills with basketball, skateboarding, a mix of street and contemporary dance, traditional theatre, humour and amazing audio visual effects. Since taking the Edinburgh Festival by storm
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NATIONAL DANCE COMPANY PLUNGE BLACKWOOD MINER’S INSTITUTE
FEATURING four members of the iconic rock band The Kinks, Mick Avory, Jim Rodford, Ian Gibbons and Dave Clarke collectively cover 60 years experience in the business. With classics such as Waterloo Sunset, Lola, You Really Got Me plus many more; this is your chance to see classic rock music at its best. Tickets £12
PREPARE to dive into a thrilling dance experience and see two wonderful productions performed by six of the best young professional dancers in the world. Hinterland is a beautiful, elegant and poignant dance set to a glorious orchestral suite of music by Alun Hoddinott and played by BBC NOW. The second production, Shut Up! is a new riveting piece of dance-theatre, depicting the
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MARCH 2010 what's on & INTERVIEW
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interview
Welsh musical favourite is having a ball The legend that is Michael Ball, is set to appear in the touring production of Hairspray as the larger than life character Edna Turnblad in Cardiff this month. With such a busy schedule it was fantastic that he found time to speak to Anne-Marie Smith. E know so much about Michael Ball and his successful singing, acting and presenting career, but where did it all start? “I was born in Bromsgrove, but actually moved to Plymouth when I was three. I spent an awful lot of time visiting relatives in Wales and loved the area as I was growing up. I attended drama school and youth theatre and realised this was something I wanted to make a career out of, because to be perfectly honest I was useless at everything else!” he laughs. As a child I was keen to know who inspired him, “I used to love and adore the big American stars. People like Billy Holiday and Frank Sinatra, but I was also a huge, huge fan of Danny Kaye.” In 2007, Michael started performing on the West End as Edna in Hairspray, a role he continued throughout 2008 before bowing out at the end of the year. He is now co-producing the touring show and recreating the role of Edna himself in a number of the shows. But, how did Michael originally get the part of Edna, a far cry from many of the other theatre roles that he has undertaken, “Well, I first saw the show on Broadway five years before it came over to England and absolutely loved it. I heard that they were
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going to bring the production over to London, and I desperately wanted to play the part of Edna. I knew that they wouldn't ask or even consider me for the part, so I got my agent to ring them to ask for an audition. I then went along to the audition with lots of other hopefuls and won the part. I was absolutely over the moon.” Michael appeared on Ruth Jones's (alias Nessa in Gavin and Stacey) Christmas chat show as a guest. I wanted to know if he was a fan of Gavin and Stacey? “Of course, I never missed an episode, I thought it was absolutely fantastic. It really brought to life the mentality of Welsh people when they meet the English and vice versa. They got the characters off to a tee which must have taken years of careful observation of people’s ways and actions, and how they speak with quirky phrases. Such a funny way of bringing the Welsh and English together in a show that would make you laugh out loud. I compare it along the lines of the ‘Royal Family’ where you can laugh, cry and at times sympathise with the characters and story-line. I think they were right not to make another series, but I would love them to make loads and loads of specials.” www.livingwalesmag.co.uk
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interview Born in England, but with a mother from Wales, I obviously had to ask Michael who he supported when it came to the rugby internationals, “In war and rugby I am a true Welsh man. I was absolutely gutted when England beat Wales the other week, I was really rooting and willing Wales to pull it out of the bag. One of my proudest moments was singing at the Wales Millennium Stadium in 1999 for the rugby world cup. It is such an awesome venue.” Probably Michael Ball’s most famous theatrical role is playing Marius in Les Miserables at the Palace Theatre in London. This was his first theatrical role, and one that holds true to his heart. Gareth Gates took over the mantel of Marius in the recent touring production, and I wanted to know what Michael thought of him in this wonderful role, “To be perfectly honest I have not seen him, but I have heard rave reviews. He is a fantastic singer and wonderful actor and all round nice person. He strikes me as someone who works really hard and I personally admire people like that. I had lunch the other day with Cameron Mackintosh the producer of Les Miserables who spoke really highly of Gareth and how well he was doing in the role.” And what did he make of the changes they had made to the show? “It’s difficult for me to comment on that as I haven't seen it, but as far as I am concerned, things need to move on and be updated to appeal to new audiences.” Perhaps a silly question, but what is Michael's favourite musical? “Les Miserables of course!” As well as playing Marius, Michael has also played Frederick in the Pirates of Penzance, Raoul in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera, Alex in Aspect’s of Love and Caractucus Potts in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang to name but a few, but what would be his dream role that he has yet to play? “Sweeney Todd” he says without hesitation, “Well actually I will be playing this character next year in a new version of the show and I can’t wait!” As well as acting, Michael has had an outstanding career in the music industry, with all twelve of his solo albums going to gold within weeks of their release. In 1999 he was named the Variety Club of Great Britain’s Recording Artiste for 1998 and in 2009 he released his album ‘Michael Ball - Past and Present’ to celebrate his 25 years in show business. During his career he has performed with the likes of Elaine Page, Lesley Garret and Dame Shirley Bassey, but who hasn't he performed with and would like to? “Celine Dionne and maybe Beyonce as I think she would be fantastic! I also wouldn't mind singing with Lady GaGa, now that would be fun!” Michael has obviously met many famous people during his career, but who hasn’t he met and would like to meet, past or present?
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“Frank Sinatra...I would love to spend a day with him in Las Vegas. That would have been a dream come true for me as I think he was a genius and a true personal inspiration for me.” Of all his memorable and musical highlights, Michael claims that, “Winning the Olivier Award in 2008 for best actor in a musical for my portrayal of Edna in Hairspray has to be one of my highlights as well as appearing in my own prom at the Royal Albert Hall, my album achieving number one and of course appearing for the first time on stage on Broadway!” In between all this, Michael finds time to host his own show on BBC radio 2 called ‘Michael Ball’s Sunday Brunch.’ “I love presenting this show and I just try to be myself. I want people to relax when they talk to me and feel comfortable so that they can open up to me and have a really good conversation. I don’t want to pry into their private lives, I just want them to feel that they can talk to me as a friend. I also help to decide what music is played during the show which is great as I get to play some of my personal favourites.” In 1992, Michael represented Great Britain in the Eurovision Song Contest with his entry 'One Step Out of Time.’ What did he think of the show as it stands today? “It is one big silly show that I absolutely love, but that Britain never has a chance of winning for obvious political reasons." And, Finally, his plans for the future? “More television work, a new album and of course rehearsing for my role in Sweeney Todd....I can't Wait.”
Winning the Olivier Award in 2008 for best actor in a musical for my portrayal of Edna in Hairspray has to be one of my highlights.
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a grand day out
Taking the scenic route A seven mile drive from Junction 28 off the M4 and up the Western Valley on the Risca to Cwmcarn road, we found mountains to climb, the Cwmcarn Forest Drive, awash with adventures, peaceful or strenuous, for your Grand Day Out; you could even help to restore a canal! WORDS Patricia Clarke
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PICTURES Nick Clarke
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a grand day out Fishing at the lake in Cwmcarn Forest Drive
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VER the years we at Living Wales have discovered some wonderful attractions in South Wales, where the family can experience a lovely day out without incurring much at all in the way of expenditure, except the petrol to get you there. Some of the best of these are hidden where, historically there were coal mines, or iron and steel works, the Welsh Tourist Board, CADW, The Forestry Commission, and local Councils, have reclaimed much of the erstwhile beauty of this part of Wales ruined by the aforementioned industries, and have greatly improved the infrastructure.The southern part of the Carn Valley, from Cwmcarn to Rogerstone, via Crosskeys, where the River Ebbw meets the River Sirhowy, is one such area filled with mountains, beautiful views, walks, fishing, and cycling, and an eclectic mixture of activities well worth consideration for a great day out - with, or without, the kids! HISTORY Evolving from a Bronze Age settlement to Silurian Iron Age Hill Fort, and on to the Welsh Kingdom of Glywysing, this part of the Western Valley eventually became the county of Morgannwg; then later, Glamorgan. There is very little evidence of the Romans left, but the Norman invasion of Britain led to Cwmcarn becoming part of the Manor of Abercarne, in the Parish of Mynyddislwyn. The community was sustained mainly by farming until the discovery of coal, which after the first pit shaft was opened in 1836 culminated in the ruination of this beautiful area, albeit providing work for the local populace and many more from outside the area who were looking for work.The closure of the Pontymister steelworks in 1962, followed by the pits by the National Coal Board in 1968 began the long road to restoration of this erstwhile beautiful valley.
WHAT'S IN A NAME? To the avid reader of this column, Cwmcarn obviously translates to 'Valley of the River Carn', and the Mynydd Maen means 'Mountain of Stone'. Pontywaun seems to have been shortened from Pont-y-gwaun which translates as 'Bridge of the Mountain meadow', which when you look at the geography makes sense.Ty Isaf is 'Lowest House', and Pontymister, or Pont-y-meistr means the 'Bridge of the Master'. The Iron Age hill fort of Twmbarlwm or Twyn Barlwm, translates thus:Twyn is Hillock, Bar is Top and Llwm means bare or exposed, and on sight the 'Hillock with the Bare Top' describes it perfectly! My favourite of the month, www.livingwalesmag.co.uk
only because it took me so long to find it, is Risca, which is not 'Rhysga', but 'Yrisgae', which means Yr = The, is = lower and gae (cae) = Field, so Risca simply means 'The Lower Field'! What about that then? CWMCARN FOREST DRIVE Regeneration of the area has been taking place for many years, and the hillside forests from Cwmcarn to Risca have been transformed into a terrific tourist attraction.To be fair, the local residents of this part of South Wales have always known how beautiful it is, and have had their favourite spots for picnics and walks for many decades, but with the hard work of the Forestry Commission, and the building of the Cwmcarn Forest Drive Visitor Centre, it has become an extremely popular venue for almost every outdoor activity on the planet. There are seven car parks within the seven mile stretch, which you can simply drive around and, variously throughout the car parks, facilities include barbecue sites, themed picnic sites, some with sculptures of the Mabinogi of the famous Welsh Celtic tales, and play areas, not to mention the beautiful views. If you're an avid camper or caravanner, MARCH 2010 Living Wales
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a grand day out situated alongside the Nantcarn stream which runs down the mountainside from the lake, the camp site for forty tents or caravans, has toilet and shower facilities, electric hook-ups and chemical waste disposal. The centre has bicycles for hire, or you can take your own, and pootle along at your own speed whilst watching out, of course, for the shorter legged three wheelers, likely to be in the barbecue and picnic areas! If you are of the more adventurous ilk, there are lovely scenic walks, the Twrch Trail with glorious views for the mountain biker, and for the ultimate adrenalin addict there's the Extreme Mynydd Mojo downhill trail, with the Cwmdown Uplift service available to take you to the top; definitely not for your's truly's folding job! (Bike-that is!) There's a cafe for refreshments and a shop for your souvenirs, and even well equipped classrooms for children on educational visits, and if you're in the habit of never travelling without your trusty fishing rod and wellies, here you will also find a beautiful lake in which to indulge your passion. For more information Tel: 01495 272001 TWMBARLWM Further down the valley, and overlooking the town of Risca, is the Silurian Iron Age Hill Fort of Twmbarlwm, otherwise known to locals as Twmbarlwm Mountain, climbed by generations of South Walians on Good Friday in the way of a kind of pilgrimage, or it was in my day! The destination of many a charity walk, the views from the top are stunning, which hardly describes them, but the last little climb after a long uphill walk takes a little more of your energy, as I discovered some years ago when my two, thankfully strapping, sons had to drag me up so that I could claim the promised sponsored monies for completing the climb! The mountain attracts thousands of ramblers every year. FOURTEEN LOCKS VISITOR'S CENTRE A huge part of the industrial history of South Wales is portrayed right here, in the Brecon and Monmouthshire canal system which carried the products of many Valley industries to the docks at Newport. Having successfully applied for help from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Monmouthshire, Brecon and Abergavenny Canals Trust
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The old Cwmcarn Rugby club now one of the most famous boxing gyms in the World. The Calzaghe Stable.
(MBACT) have received Scheduled Ancient Monument Consent from Cadw for the restoration of two pairs of locks in the Cefn Flight. Fourteen locks which rises 160 feet in the space of half a mile, was designed by Thomas Dadford after whom the tea room at the visitors centre is named, and the centre encourages schools to bring groups of children to the popular Education Through Restoration project. The plan to restore the whole stretch of canal, together with its unique locks system, from Rogerstone to Cwmcarn, will extend the walks and cycle paths for visitors to the area, providing a boost to tourism and a fascinating addition to the activities of the Forest Drive. There are art and museum exhibitions, and on the first Saturday of each month visitors can take part in the guided walks from the Canal Centre, one of which is called Twmbarlwm Or Bust! Finally, a great opportunity exists for anyone who wishes to help in this challenge, you can stay at the camp, roll up your sleeves, don your wellies grab a spade, get covered in mud and be a part of this truly inspirational project; I, for one can't wait to see this completed. CWMCARN TO RISCA In the middle of Risca town is the Tredegar park, donated to the local residents by Lord Tredegar in 1897, in celebration of the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria, it has a safe play area for children, and large grassed area benches, for walks and a
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a grand day out Fourteen Lock Visitor Centre
peaceful rest. The town which has a population of about 20,000 has cafes, restaurants, churches and schools, and you will find many a waterhole (O.K.- pubs!) for the thirsty rambler, throughout the seven mile stretch of road from Cwmcarn to Risca. If you're looking for angling supplies, specialists Pezzetti Angling and Shooting supplies in Risca have rods, poles, bait and reels, also outdoor clothing, Martial Arts memorabelia, and a fascinating selection of Historic Militaria, and in the Risca Colliers Institute, a grade II listed building, you'll find the local Industrial Museum with some great exhibits. Risca Male Voice Choir celebrates their 40th year anniversary with a tour in August, and the town also boasts a Rugby Football Team (The Cuckoos), and Football team (Risca United). If you're lucky www.livingwalesmag.co.uk
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a grand day out enough to catch one of their games, and feel the call of a brilliant curry, then there is none better than the Three Mughals Indian Restaurant in Rogerstone. For an area which, not so very long ago, was covered in coal dust and the ruins of the vast iron and steel industries, it is slowly rising beautifully from the ashes, reclaiming its landscape, and improving tourism for the benefit of the local populace. For these reasons Cwmcarn to Risca is, in our opinion, well deserving of our recommendation for A Grand Day Out.
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at the races Themed days at Chepstow Racecourse Family Fun Days: Monday 5th April Monday 3rd May Monday 31st May Monday 30th August All children under 16 go racing free * Free kids entertainment throughout the day such as soft play activities, face painting, candy floss and craft tents * Picnics allowed (Terms and conditions apply)
John Smiths Grand National Day Saturday 10th April: 7 exhilarating live races * Have a flutter at the Aintree Grand National which will be televised live on our big screens * Double the fun - Experience all the racing action from Chepstow and Aintree
A day at the races Dust off your hats and dig out your best bib and tucker and spend a day this year at the races! Actually, its not compulsory to wear a hat, but what better excuse? A day at Chepstow races can be a great reason to meet up with family and friends for a fun day out. Chepstow has a great season of events throughout 2010, which includes family fun days as well as racing to help keep the children entertained, the Ladies Day where the fairer sex have the opportunity to dress up, and maybe even buy a new outfit! Whatever the occasion, a day at the races is sure to bring a smile to your face.
Ladies Day Friday 21st May sponsored by Bridgend Designer outlet
A highlight on any social calender * The perfect way to start your summer partying * Various admission and hospitality packages available to cater for any sized party * Live entertainment after racing * Competitions and prizes running throughout the event
Ladies Evening Friday 9th July The most glamorous event of the year * Fantastic entertainment after racing * A great way to celebrate a special occasion * Men and women welcome! * Competitions and prizes running throughout the event * Fabulous packages available for all group sizes
Rum ‘n’ Rythm Evening Friday 23rd July Enjoy a summer party at the races * Sip cocktails whilst watching some exciting racing * An enjoyable and different Friday night out
Back to jumps Saturday 9th October Experience the thrill of jump racing * Perfect day out with family and friends * Fantastic admission and hospitality packages available
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special feature
Full of character and history The indoor market in Pontypool has proudly stood the test of time in the middle of the town since 1894. Living Wales visited and spoke to, a number of businesses within while taking a look at the history of this delightful shopping centre. WORDS Anne-Marie Smith PICTURES Glyn Harding AS with the majority of market towns over the years, Pontypool has seen a huge change. With people looking to purchase their goods from out of town supermarkets, markets have understandably suffered as a result. Thankfully, Torfaen County Borough Council have given great support to the traders of the indoor market and have even started a programme of improvements. They have also re-introduced the popular outdoor market on a Wednesday to the town of Pontypool. Built in 1894, Pontypool Market in its heyday was acknowledged to be one of the finest of its class in terms of design and quality of products. The building as it currently stands dates from 1894, but before that it was in two parts, a butter and meat market. There was also a room where general goods were sold, and in between this room and the old cattle market was the famous Billie Boar Field. Here Johnnie Noake's Theatre was pitched, boxing booths and travelling shows entertained the citizens. The site eventually became an overcrowded vegetable market and there was considerable demand for a new market building. The architects for this were Mr Robert Williams A.R.I.B.A a native of Bridgend and Mr D.J. Lougher of Pontypool and the building contractors were Messrs.John Morgan & David Evans. The cost of the entire building including ventilation and electrical lighting was ÂŁ22,280. Mr W Sandbrook, Chairman of the local board, presided at the opening ceremony on December 1st 1894 which was performed by Mr John Capel Hanbury. Many of the traders within the market are positive about the plans to improve the infrastructure of the beautiful building, including the introduction of two display windows. Each month a trader will have the chance to use one of the windows to display their goods in order to entice new customers through the doors. There are a many stalls within the market that have been there for a number of years, as well as a some which have recently set up. One such trader is 'Inspiring Food of Wales.' As the name suggests, the stall offers a wide range of Welsh produce from cheese, eggs, organic beef and Welsh Black beef and preserves. They have even started cooking Welsh cakes on the premises. Julie Heal the owner, started trading a year ago and is really pleased with the support she has received. "Customer flow is increasing and we are getting a lot of new customers as well as our regulars," said Julie. Catlin Mae, a hat, shoe, bag and jewellery stall has also been in the market for about a year and are currently having a huge sale with many of their shoes selling for just ÂŁ10 a pair. Nick Howlett, the owner said, "We are going to concentrate on selling just bags in the future, so if anyone is looking for a nice hat for a forthcoming wedding and a pair of new shoes, now is the time to buy from us as most of our stock is in the sale and you can bag yourself a bargain," said Nick. Just around the corner from Caitlin Mae is the card and gift shop 'Kind
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Thoughts.' This stall has been in the market for over twenty years and offers a wide range of cards, gifts, stationery, dried flowers, party items, mugs and glasses etc. Pauline Price is the current owner of 'More Than Words,' a second hand book shop that has been in the market for approximately 34 years. Pauline took over the lease just fifteen months ago and offers a wide selection of fact and fiction books as well as DVD's and pocket money toys. "My stall is right next to where the work is being carried out, and although I have experienced a downturn in foot flow, I know that the work needs to be done and will benefit the market. Before the work was carried out, we used to get a lot of passing trade which I am confident will return," said Pauline. Opposite More Than Words is the new stall 'Seafood 2 Go.' Open for just under four months, Mark Luker the owner has been running a seafood business for over ten years offering home delivery, but decided that he needed a base. From Pontypool himself, Mark decided that the market would be a perfect location to run his business. The stall offers welsh cockles and Lava Bread as well as fresh fish and seafood. He also specialises in exotic seafood and luxury handmade gourmet products you wouldn't normally find in supermarkets, such as Red Snapper and Langoustine. The butchers, W Randell & Sons has been in the market for approximately 17 years and has been passed down through the generations to the current owner Wayne Randell. With a wide range of top quality meats, eggs, cheeses, preserves and faggots, Randell & Sons have a loyal customer base which they rely upon. "Years ago, the market used to be heaving
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MARCH 2010 PPOOL MARKET
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and you could hardly move. Mind you I am going back to when I was a boy and there wasn't anywhere else that you could go for your meats and vegetables etc. Now people have so much choice they can go where they choose. Fortunately, I have customers who have been coming to me for years and know that the quality of my food is the best. I hope that by completing the work within the market we start getting more customer flow and I can increase my customer base," said Wayne. One of the final stalls that we visited during the tour of the market, was Harris Fruit and Veg located right at the top of the market. The stall itself had been in the market for a number of years, although only in its current location for two years. The business is doing incredibly well and sells not only fruit and vegetables, but is also a floristry and makes bouquets to order or sells fresh single stems. They also sell local welsh honey, eggs and pickles etc and offer a delivery service as well as supplying charitable organisations. The current owner is from the Pontypool area and is very impressed with the way business within the market has gone for him. There are many other stalls within the market, too many to mention, so why not take a wander for yourselves and discover what the market can offer you. You may be pleasantly surprised.
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MARCH 2010 Living Wales
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MARCH IN BLOOM
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This year Newport In Bloom are feeling good about Newport, offering one lucky community within the city of Newport the chance to have a makeover. Expertly carried out by the multiaward winning In Bloom team, with the help of your community, this competition is going to bring a whole new lease of life to one corner of Newport. After four successive Wales in Bloom wins, silver in the Britain In Bloom competition and recognition from the Royal Horticultural Society, there really is no better team to take on the challenge of brightening up your community. If you want your community to be in with a chance of winning, follow the instructions below to enter. • • •
•
Firstly, we want to know how many people in your community will be willing to help out. So, have a chat to your neighbours and see who’s on board. Next up we need you to write to us, telling us about your community and why you think you deserve to win. Then we need you to tell us a bit about your community. What street are you entering for the makeover? Perhaps it’s your local shopping precinct or park? Maybe it’s the gardens of sheltered housing, or perhaps a youth club? Obviously there are limits to the size of the space we can transform. Finally, tell us about you - your name, age, address, telephone number and email address - we’ll need this to contact you if you win.
Deadline extended to 30th March due to huge response! Send to either info@livingwalesmag.co.uk or via post to Brighten Up My Community Competition, Living Wales Magazine, 2 Town Bridge Buildings, Park Road, Pontypool NP4 6JE. N.B. This competition is only open to the residents of Newport.
For information on Newport In Bloom & advice on how your community can get involved call 01633 656656 | www.newport.gov.uk/newportinbloom
MARCH 2010 INTERIORS
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in the home
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MARCH 2010 INTERIORS
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in the home
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MARCH 2010 Living Wales
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MARCH 2010 INTERIORS
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in the home
As the UK's only bathroom specialist offering an all-inclusive service works hard to ensure that every Easy Bathing bathroom still has the impact it deserves, whilst tastefully incorporating the required safety features or specialist products. As experts in bathroom design they take the time to get to know the person in need, to know the specific practicalities and tastes of the customer, including the requirements of other family members - crucial to finding the right bathing solutions that suit a whole household.
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MARCH 2010 INTERIORS
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bedrooms
A fully fitted Dolphin bathroom starts from ÂŁ6,000, including full design, technical survey, delivery and complete installation.
To request the latest brochure, arrange a free design consultation or find your nearest showroom, call 0800 458 9697 or visit www.dolphinbathrooms.co.uk
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MARCH 2010 Living Wales
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Experience the highest quality of Indian cuisine with a relaxing and contemporary ambience
Shahi
SHAHI
Shahi Indian Restaurant
uTakeaway service uChildren’s meals uFacilities for disabled uOutside catering available uExtensive Cocktail Menu uFully air conditioned and licensed uExtensive Speciality Dishes uVegetarian Dishes available
ACE
Awarding Culinary Excellence
Restaurant of the Year
2009 WINNER BEST ASIAN CUISINE
For bookings and further information call
01873 859201 or 852525 5 Mill Street, Abergavenny. NP7 5HE
Quintessential of dining Cuisine 6outpages ideas and recipes
MARCH 2010 FOOD
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PICTURE by Nick Clarke: Sardines from the Inn At The Elm Restaurant, Newport
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MARCH 2010 Living Wales
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MARCH 2010 FOOD
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quintessential cuisine The Rock & Fountain, Blackwood
Fantastic food on the riverside Living Wales has visited many fine eateries over the years and on a recent visit to the Rock & Fountain in Blackwood we found one of the best around. WORDS Anne-Marie Smith PICTURES Nick Clarke
BOTTOM LEFT Smoked Haddock Tartlet. BOTTOM MIDDLE The lovely exterior at dusk. BOTTOM RIGHT Seared Scallops. OPPOSITE PAGE TOP LEFT The interior at the Riverside restaurant. TOP RIGHT Pork Belly. BOTTOM LEFT Rack of Lamb. BOTTOM RIGHT Chocolate Fondant.
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THERE On the banks of the River Sirhowy flowing through Blackwood, Stuart Daniels, the owner of the Rock and Fountain, opened his stylish Riverside Restaurant in this popular pub three years ago. He has created a stunning dining area which is a mixture of traditional stone and Welsh slate, and contemporary furniture. With tapestry on the walls, and church candles standing in wrought iron sconces, set off beautifully by marble slab tables and contemporary chairs, we sat down to peruse the menu, to background music of a gentle samba played on an acoustic guitar, and subdued lighting completed the cosy but classy ambience. On our arrival, and once we had admired the main dining area, Stuart showed us the Conservatory which was equally as impressive. Adjoining the main restaurant, this room affords a perfect private function room, without complete isolation from the rest of the diners. The Starters The choice of starter was difficult, from mouthwatering dishes such as Deep fried breaded Caws y Graig Goats Cheese with Winter Pear, and Chicken Liver, Tequila and Cranberry Pate, Red Onion
Marmalade and toasted Brioche, the instinct is to try them all. In the end Nick, my dining companion, chose the Pan Fried Scallops, with Rocket, Pink Lady and Sherry Vinegar Salad, with Carrot and Coriander, Cumin and Yoghurt Purees, and I opted for the Oak Smoked Haddock, with Spring Onions and Horseradish Tartlet served on a bed of SauteĂŠd Kale with a Balsamic Glaze, all beautifully presented on platters of slate. The strong smokey flavour of the haddock was enhanced by the onions and horseradish, and the tartlet was beautifully crisp, and was a tasty start to the meal. The Scallops were cooked to perfection, and the salad and puree were a perfect accompaniment. The Mains For our main courses once again the choices were vast and wonderfully diverse, in that they ranged from Venison with Chilli and Chocolate Casserole, Breast of Duck, with Orange Sauce, on a bed of Sweet Potato and Celeriac Dauphinoise, Pan Fried Brill with Rosemary and Orange Butter, to name but a trio from numerous other wonderful sounding dishes. Nick was unable to resist the
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quintessential cuisine
Twice Cooked Confit of Pork Belly, on a bed of Creamed Lentils and Chorizo with Apple and Shallot Jus, and he 'waxed lyrical' about this dish for the rest of the evening! Having tried many Pork Belly dishes Nick described this version as ‘the daddy of them all’! Three large chunks of Belly Pork with mouthwatering crispy crackling kept him quiet for at least 10 minutes. The dish was very slightly over-seasoned but in all, this was one dish that has to be seen and tasted. Totally delicious and as Nick commented ‘you haven’t had a Pork Belly dish until you try this one’! I settled on the Herb crusted Rack of Lamb, on a Bed of Sweet Potato and Celeriac Dauphinoise, with Baby Glazed Onions and Black Pepper and Juniper Berry Infused Beetroot. The lamb, although cooked pink just as I like it, fell off the bone, and the dauphinoise was delicious, also the beetroot and onions did exactly as they were meant to do, and lifted the dish beautifully; I'm in love with the Chef as the accompanying stunning creamy Mint sauce was to die for! The Desserts The Dessert menu was every bit as vast and varied as the previous courses, from Rhubarb and Duck Egg Creme Brulee, with Chocolate coated Shortbread, (my mouth is watering as I type!) to Baked Honey and Passion Fruit Cheesecake served with a shot of warm Mulled Wine. Again it was a difficult choice, I adore chocolate shortbread, but I held out bravely, and chose the White Chocolate Pannacotta with Blackcurrant Sorbet, as I had not tried that combination before, and was I pleased that I did. The Sorbet combined with the perfect White Chocolate Pannacotta, was a wonderful palate refresher and really hit the taste buds with a zing. Nick was drawn to the Chocolate Fondant with Passion Fruit Coulis and Merlyn Chantilly Cream. All the ingredients of this dish complemented each other beautifully and are a must for any chocolate lover. www.livingwalesmag.co.uk
Conclusion The excellent restaurant staff served us with first class friendly efficiency, and charm, and could not do enough to make us feel welcome and comfortable. The Head Chef, Gareth Dobbs comes from a Michelin Star background, and has successfully taught his Sous Chef, Craig Lewis, to his own standards. Our dishes were superbly cooked and beautifully presented. Although the restaurant was busy, we watched as all diners were treated to food which was cooked from fresh ingredients, quickly served from an extremely wide choice menu. Quite a feat! and as Stuart explained, - with a passion! - ‘I could have gone for the
‘two for one style delivered in bags ready to cook', it would have been perfectly good food, but that’s not what I wanted. I know that, when out for a nice meal, most people want quality food, freshly cooked from fresh good quality ingredients, by talented chefs.’ Well congratulations Stuart, because at the Riverside Restaurant, Woodfieldside in Blackwood, that is exactly what you get, a culinary treat for the connoisseur; can’t wait to go back.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Telephone 01495 220787/231018 Open Tuesday to Saturday 6pm-9pm Sunday 12pm-3pm.
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MARCH 2010 FOOD
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recipe WELSH CAKE RECIPE Ingredients 8oz self raising flour 4oz margarine 2oz sugar 2oz currants 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp salt squirt of lemon juice 1 beaten egg 1 tablespoon of milk Special tip-courtesy of my daughter-in-lawsoaking the currants in hot (not boiling) water for a couple of hours before making the cakes makes them juicy and plump. You can also replace half the currants with cranberries -extra Yummy and good for you too!
MUSHROOM RISOTTO Ingredients 50g dried porcini mushrooms 1 vegetable stock cube 2 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 250g pack chestnut mushrooms , sliced and washed 300g risotto rice , such as arborio 1 x 175ml glass white wine 25g butter handful parsley leaves, chopped 50g parmesan or grana padano, freshly grated
METHOD 1. Put the dried mushrooms into a large bowl and pour over 1 litre boiling water. Soak for 20 mins, then drain into a bowl, discarding the last few tbsp of liquid left in the bowl. Crumble the stock cube into the mushroom liquid, then squeeze the mushrooms gently to remove any liquid. Chop the mushrooms. 2. Heat the oil in a shallow saucepan or deep frying pan over a medium flame. Add the onions and garlic, then fry for about 5 mins until soft. Stir in the fresh and dried mushrooms, season with salt and pepper and continue to cook for 8 mins until the fresh mushrooms have softened. 3. Tip the rice into the pan and cook for 1 min. Pour over the wine and let it bubble to nothing so the alcohol evaporates. Keep the pan over a medium heat and pour in a quarter of the mushroom stock. Simmer the rice, stirring often, until the rice has absorbed all the liquid. Add about the same amount of stock again and continue to
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simmer and stir - it should start to become creamy, plump and tender. By the time the final quarter of stock is added, the rice should be almost cooked. 4. Continue stirring until the rice is cooked. If the rice is still undercooked, add a splash of water. Take the pan off the heat, add the butter and scatter over half the cheese and the parsley. Cover and leave for a few mins so that the rice can take up any excess liquid as it cools a bit. Give the risotto a final stir, spoon into bowls and scatter with the remaining cheese and parsley. www.livingwalesmag.co.uk
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METHOD 1. Rub the margarine into the flour, stir the sugar, cinnamon and salt into the mixture and add the currants/cranberries. Mix into a soft dough whilst gradually adding the beaten egg, milk and lemon juice- being careful not to make the mixture too wet, particularly if you have soaked the currants beforehand. (If too wet add a sprinkling of flour) 2. Before rolling the dough, wipe your griddle with a little olive oil on kitchen paper and heat on the stove, the temperature can be turned up or down once you begin to cook the cakes, then you'll know how hot it needs to be.
For all your fresh produce and more visit
Pontypool Markets
3. Roll out the dough to approximately 1/4 inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut out the cake shapes with a cutter with a serrated edge (these are readily available in kitchen shops and some super- markets) and place onto the griddle. Watch the first two or three cakes carefully to gauge the heat needed to cook the rest of the welsh cakes for two to three minutes each side, and turn up or down as necessary. Once cooked the welsh cakes will feel slightly spongey when pressed with a spatula or wide bladed knife. Pile onto a plate sprinkling each layer with castor sugar and, once cool, store in a cake tin. They are also scrummy cut through and spread with the jam of your choice. 4. Finally, wipe the cooled griddle with kitchen paper, treat with a little olive oil to stop it drying out, and if any of the mixture is stuck on the surface rub with a little sea salt. 5. Extra tip: I always find it better to double the ingredients (NOT THE SALT-for some reason doubling the salt is too much, so just add a tiny bit extra) and this makes about thirty welsh cakes. This saves the energy needed to heat the griddle twice, and only takes about ten minutes longer labour-wise. But beware!!--the family will eat them much quicker as well so hide half in another tin. Enjoy!
RESTAURANT OPENING TIMES Sunday Lunch: 12-3pm. Closed Evening Mon & Tues Lunch: Closed. Evening 6.30-8.45pm Weds-Sat Lunch: 12-3pm. Evening 6.30-8.45pm
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Support your local trader
OUTDOOR MARKET EVERY WEDNESDAY Vist Pontypool Markets for all your fresh fruit and vegetables, fresh fish and meats, jewellery, clothing, cards for all occasions, household items or to just enjoy a cup of tea and a chat!
INDOOR MARKET OPENING TIMES
Monday 8.30pm - 2pm Tuesday - Friday 8.30am - 5pm Saturday 8.30am - 4pm For further information call Pontypool Regeneration office on
01495 766029
MARCH 10 ADVERTS
7/3/10
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BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT!
MARCH 2010 FILMS
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at the movies
movie of the month ALICE IN WONDERLAND (PG, 109MINS) FRIDAY 5TH MARCH RATING ***** JOHNNY DEPP, ANNE HATHAWAY, HELENA BONHAM-CARTER FROM Walt Disney Pictures and visionary film-director Tim Burton comes one of the most highly anticipated movie releases for 2010 “Alice in Wonderland.” The film’s all star cast which includes the billiant Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter, Anne Hathaway as the White Queen, Helena Bonham Carter as the Red Queen, Australian rising star Mia Wasikowska as Alice, and UK’s favourite little Briton Matt Lucas as Tweedledum and Tweedledee. More impressive British acting talent provide the voices for Wonderland’s amazing menagerie of inhabitants, including Stephen Fry playing the Cheshire Cat, Alan Rickman playing Absolem the caterpillar, Michael Sheen playing The White Rabbit, Paul Whitehouse playing The March Hare, Timothy Spall playing Bayard, Barbara Windsor playing the Dormouse and
GREEN ZONE (15, 115MINS)
FRIDAY 12TH MARCH RATING ***
Matt Damon, Greg Kinnear MATT Damon and director Paul Greengrass (The Bourne Supremacy, The Bourne Ultimatum, United 93) re-team for their latest electrifying thriller in Green Zone, a film set in the chaotic early days of the Iraq War. During the U.S.-led occupation of Baghdad in 2003, Chief Warrant Officer Roy Miller (Damon) and his team of Army inspectors were dispatched to find weapons of mass destruction believed to
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Christopher Lee playing the Jabberwocky. This truly amazing film promises to bring a touch of the magical and surreal world of Wonderland to the big screen! Tim Burton’s magical and imaginative “Alice in Wonderland” is inspired by Lewis Carroll’s beloved “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” and “Through the LookingGlass” and is brought to the big screen in ground-breaking Disney Digital 3D™ and features stunning avant-garde visuals. The film sees Alice embarking on a fantastical journey to find her true destiny and end the Red Queen’s reign of terror and marks a return to Disney for director Tim Burton (“The Nightmare Before Christmas,” “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street,” “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”). Incorporating characters, story elements and the central themes from both of Carroll’s books, Burton’s “Alice in Wonderland” features a new adventure as 19-year-old Alice returns to Wonderland for the first time since she was a child with no memory of her previous adventures there. Alice in Wonderland is released across the UK on March the 5th on 2D, Disney Digital 3D and IMAX® 3D screens.
be stockpiled in the Iraqi desert. Rocketing from one booby-trapped and treacherous site to the next, the men search for deadly chemical agents but stumble instead upon an elaborate cover-up that inverts the purpose of their mission. Spun by operatives with intersecting agendas, Miller must hunt through covert and faulty intelligence hidden on foreign soil for answers that will either clear a rogue regime or escalate a war in an unstable region. And at this blistering time and in this combustible place, he will find the most elusive weapon of all is the truth.
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edited by Jason Roberts
at the movies
Also released this March 2010 Friday 5 March 2010 Alice In Wonderland (PG) Case 39 (15) Chloe (15) Father Of My Children (12A) Legion (15) Milenge Milenge (12A) Motherhood (15) Ondine (12A) The Shouting Men (12A) Friday 12 March 2010 The Ape (12A) The Blind Side, The (12A) Green Zone (15) The Kreutzer Sonata (18) Wednesday 17 March 2010 The Bounty Hunter (15) I Love You Phillip Morris (12A) Friday 19 March 2010 Dirty Oil (12A) The Ghost (15) House Of The Devil (15) My Last Five Girlfriends (12) Old Dogs (PG) Season Of The Witch (18) Valhalla Rising (12A) Friday 26 March 2010 Extract (12A) In The Land Of The Free (12A) Lion's Den (12A) Lourdes (12A) Nanny McPhee and the Big Bang (U) Wednesday 31 March 2010 How To Train Your Dragon 3D
LEGION (18, 102MINS)
FRIDAY 5TH MARCH RATING ***
Paul Bettany, Dennis Quaid A Mojave Desert diner becomes ground zero for earth’s final showdown in the supernatural thriller - Legion. As mankind destroys itself, a small group of people prepare to make a last stand - with the help of a mysterious and powerful stranger. Unaware of the chaos unfolding around the globe, Bob Hanson (Dennis Quaid), the owner of a remote roadside café, and his partner Percy (Charles S. Dutton) go about business as usual. When the television goes on the fritz and the phones go out, the group realizes they have lost
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all communication with the outside world. As they attempt to make sense of what’s happening. As the horrifying truth of their situation sinks in, a stranger (Paul Bettany) joins them with an arsenal of stolen weapons. He informs Charlie that her unborn baby is now humanity’s only hope, and he’s willing to do whatever it takes to save it. The world is about to become a waking nightmare for the last remnants of mankind as rolling caravans of crazed killers arrive in search of fresh victims and an army of warrior angels bent on total destruction follows close behind them in a unique and terrifying glimpse of the End of Days.
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MUSIC 2010 MUSIC&THEATRE
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music & theatre
Rodgers and Hammerstein classic comes to Cardiff THE classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical Oklahoma! arrives at the New Theatre, Cardiff from Tuesday 6 – Saturday 10 April starring Marti Webb and Mark Evans. From the producers of the hit shows Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, South Pacific, Singin’ in the Rain and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers comes this brand new revival set on America’s Western Frontier. Oklahoma! tells the story of farm girl Laurey and the two rivals for her affections, happy-go-lucky cowboy Curly and the sinister farm hand Jud. From its opening number Oh What a Beautiful Mornin’ to its
final rousing chorus of Oklahoma, the score is packed with alltime classic songs including The Surrey with The Fringe on Top, People Will Say We’re in Love, Many a New Day and I Cain’t Say No. Oklahoma! is at the New Theatre, Cardiff from Tuesday 6 – Saturday 10 April. Tickets range from £8.50 - £31.00 and can booked via the Box Office on 029 2087 8889 or online www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk
Neil Sedaka Tickets to be won!
Katy Brand: Big Ass Tour
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BRITISH Comedy Award Winner and star of ITV2's Katy Brand's Big Ass Show, Have I Got News For You and Peep Show comes to Swansea Grand Theatre on Wednesday 28th April at 8pm for an evening of anarchic comedy, celebrity satire, music spoofs and much, much more. Following the success of her hit TV show, Katy is returning to her live roots with this silly, sassy and smart evening of comedy. Featuring old favourites and new material, there's something here for everyone. To book please visit www.swanseagrand.co.uk or call the box office on 01792 475715. Living Wales MARCH 2010
FROM the 24-29 May, the Neil Sedaka Story entitled Laughter in the Rain will be performed at the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff. The story of one of pop music’s greatest singer songwriters is brought to the stage. Follow the remarkable life of this Brooklyn taxi driver’s son - through his years as a teenage idol in the innocent 1950s, the harder times of the 1960s and his return to the top of the charts in 1974 with Laughter in the Rain. Oh Carol, Breakin’ Up is Hard to Do, Solitaire, Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen, Calendar Girl, Little Devil, Stairway to Heaven and Amarillo are songs that bring great memories flooding back for everyone who remembers the originals. And what a wonderful introduction to these iconic hits for those who weren’t lucky enough to have been there the first time around. For your chance to win a pair of tickets (2 adult tickets) for the show, simply answer the following question Neil Sedaka's famous song 'Oh Carol' refers to which of his former girlfriend's who is also a very famous American singer, songwriter and pianist? Please send your answer along with your name, address and daytime telephone number and answer to: Living Wales Magazine, 2 Town Bridge Buildings, Park Road, Pontypool, Torfaen. All entrants must be eighteen or over and all entries must be received by Friday 17th April 2010. Alternatively, If you wish to book tickets, then visit www.wmc.org.uk
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MARCH2010 FASHION
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fashion
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MARCH2010 FASHION
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fashion
Frill Dress £35 Perforated Sandals £35 Beaded Bracelet £14 Stripe Flower Dress £35 Black Suede Bow Clutch £30 Black Cuff Sandals £28 Denim Boyfriend Blazer £45 Floral Shorts £22 Jersey Top (Pack of 3) £28 Beaded Necklace £10 Perforated Sandals £35 www.next.co.uk
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MARCH2010 FASHION
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fashion
Shorts are £19.99 and the lace waistcoat. £16.99. Available from www.republic.co.uk.
ABOVE Dress is from Miso at Republic £26.99 RIGHT Blue floral dress Miso at Republic 24.99 Available from www.republic.co.uk. 38
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MARCH2010 FASHION
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fashion
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MARCH2010 FASHION
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fashion Oiler & Boiler Stripe Shirt £79.99 Camel Active Jeans £79.99 Retreat Men’s Clothing
John Smedley tops £109.99 Retreat Men’s Clothing
Gibson Blue Suit £299.99 Olymp slim fit shirt £69.99 Olymp tie £29.99 Retreat Men’s Clothing Two Stoned Deisgner Shirt Available from www.twostoned.co.uk
Grey Suit by Remus £169.99 Camel Active Scarf £44.99 Camel Active Jeans £79.99 Retreat Men’s Clothing
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Living Wales MARCH 2010
www.livingwalesmag.co.uk
MARCH2010 FASHION
10/3/10
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fashion Two Stoned Deisgner Shirt Available from www.twostoned.co.uk
Camel Active Hat (straw/panama) £29.99 Retreat Men’s Clothing
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MARCH 2010 Living Wales
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MARCH HOVIP
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business
In association with
INNOVATION drives success A unique opportunity to become more profitable
Winners of the 2009 Heads of the Valleys Innovation Awards
The spirit of innovation - driving success Doing things differently to get better, quicker or more cost-effective results is what innovation is all about. The Heads of the Valleys Innovation Awards and Marketplace celebrate and reward the most innovative businesses in the region. ONCE again, the search is on for the most innovative businesses and social enterprises in the Heads of the Valleys area. The 2010 Heads of the Valleys Innovation Awards are open. Any business or social enterprise in one of the five Heads of the Valleys county boroughs is invited to enter the 2010 Awards. But what does innovation in business really mean and what sort of results can we expect from being innovative? To answer that question, let’s look at the four winners of the 2009 Awards. Not only are they excellent examples of innovation in action, but they also demonstrate how innovation can be effective in any area of the business. Merthyr Tydfil-based New Pathways, a social enterprise providing support services to victims of domestic and sexual abuse, won the Award for the Most Innovative Social Enterprise. The only organisation in Wales to provide such a range of services, they have also developed an innovative volunteer training scheme and are running a unique project for prison inmates. Winner of the Award for the Most Innovative Sole Trader, Shabby Chic Antiques took an innovative idea and created a sustainable business. Antique furniture is recycled with a French shabby chic look and sold in the UK as well as exported to the US, China and Japan. The business has also featured in Vogue and ITV’s ’60 Minute Makeover’ programme. Abertillery-based SteriTouch Ltd won the Award for the Most Innovative Business with less than 20 employees. SteriTouch is the only company in Wales enabling any product to be made antimicrobial. Their trademark is imaginatively used as a co-brand by over thirty companies including the world’s largest remote control manufacturer. The Awards judges said, “When
a great technology, a strong brand, a clever business model and sheer hard work are all combined, outstanding innovation is the result.” The fourth example is DecTek Ltd, winner of the Award for the Most Innovative Business with more than 20 employees. DecTek has developed a unique global asset tracking solution for use in tracking anything from luggage to livestock. Commended by the judges as “an excellent example of open innovation”, the company has used collaborations and partnerships to speed up the process of developing new products and is having a global impact. “Entering the 2010 Awards is a great way to recognise your employees and raise the profile of your business. All entrants will automatically become members of the Turning Heads Club (HOVIP’s regional business club) and the winners will be entered for the Wales Innovation Award and South Wales Chamber Business Awards,” says Phil Burkhard, HOVIP Manager. “The 2010 Awards have once more attracted prestigious and high profile sponsors. The University of Wales Global Academy Innovation Initiative is the main sponsor of the Innovation Awards, as well as overall sponsor of the Marketplace event. Equinox PR have joined us as our Media Partner. And we again have support from HSBC, BT, the South Wales Chamber of Commerce and Cardiff-based Capital Law, each of whom has contributed an exciting package of prizes for the winning companies.” “I would urge businesses across the Heads of the Valleys region to find out more about the Awards and the Marketplace event – just visit www.hovip.org.uk after 17th March for all the details. Entries for the 2010 Awards are open until 14 May 2010 – so don’t delay!”
If you would like to find out how you can benefit from HOVIP, contact Phil Burkhard 42
on 01685 725469 or Email phil.burkhard@merthyr.gov.uk or visit www.hovip.org.uk Living Wales MARCH 2010
www.livingwalesmag.co.uk
MARCH FINANCE
10/3/10
02:00
In association with Medina Lynch Chartered Certified Accountants
Page 3
finance
Tel: 029 2064 4624
SOLD
Housing market on the move? According to official figures the UK economy emerged from the recession in January. Even though officially we are out of the recession it will be some time before we feel the benefits. Gavin Watkins writes. A MAJOR part of the UK economy is the housing market and it appears that it is beginning to move as a growing number of home sellers are venturing back into the property market according to recent figures from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). The number of homeowners putting properties up for sale rose more than twice as fast as those looking to buy in February, indicating that house price rises could begin to slow. The mismatch between supply and demand, which had previously seen a greater number of new potential buyers compared to sellers, had been seen as a key factor in supporting house price recovery. RICS reported that 15% more of its member estate agents said they had seen a rise rather than fall in sales instructions from homeowners, while only 7% more recorded a rise than fall in potential buyers. February was the second month when the supply of properties for sale has exceeded demand from new buyers. A balance of 17% more surveyors reported rising than falling prices during February, although this was down from 31% more in January. The drop echoes figures reported by Nationwide and Halifax for February, which both showed house price falls, following the sharp drop in activity during January. A major influence on the demand for housing is of course mortgage rates and the availability of mortgages. Mortgage availability for homebuyers has improved over the past month, according to figures from the financial information service Moneyfacts. At the start of March there were 1,798 mortgage deals www.livingwalesmag.co.uk
available which required deposits of between 0% and 40%, which is 6% more than a month ago and 68% more than a year ago. There are still very few mortgages available with just 0% or 5% deposits, but there are now nearly 500 deals that ask for 10% or 15% down-payments. That is 90% more than a year ago when there were just 258 such loans on the market. Among the lenders to cut the interest rates across their mortgage ranges in recent weeks have been Lloyds, RBS, Cheltenham & Gloucester, Northern Rock and Alliance & Leicester. The cuts have been between 0.1% and 0.5%. In another indication of more relaxed lending, RBS has raised its maximum advance for first time buyers from ÂŁ150,000 to ÂŁ300,000. House prices have risen in the UK over the past year, which means that lenders are again lending against appreciating assets and not ones that are going down in value. Despite the recent trends, the proportion of new mortgage deals that require a deposit of at least 25% is still very high, 57% compared to 65% in March 2009. Back in August 2007, just before on the onset of the credit crunch, only 16% of the deals on offer asked for such large down payments. It is questionable whether the property market can be considered anything other than dysfunctional, regardless of whether prices are rising or not, when most first-time buyers are locked out. Certainly prices may keep rising in the short-term, but with the foundations of the property market not fixed and the chances of another mortgage credit boom looking slim, common sense says rapidly rising prices can't be sustained. MARCH 2010 Living Wales
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MARCH DRAGONS
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dragons rugby
Gwent rugby fixtures DRAGONS FIXTURES Sat 06 HOME 16:00 MUNSTER (Magners League) Weds 17 AWAY 18:30 CONNOUGHT Sat 27 HOME 18:30 OSPREYS PREMIERSHIP & BRITISH & IRISH CUP (BIC) FIXTURES Tuesday 02 March Ebbw Vale v Aberavon RFC Wednesday 03 March Newport v Swansea RFC Saturday 06 March Llandovery RFC v Pontypool RFC Newport v The Thistles (BIC) Ebbw Vale v Carmarthen RFC Llandovery v Cross Keys RFC Pontypool RFC v Swansea The Wanderers v Bedwas RFC Cardiff Rugby v Ebbw Vale Tuesday 09 March Cardiff Rugby v Ebbw Vale Friday 12 March Cross Keys RFC v Neath Pontypool RFC v Bedwas RFC Saturday 13 March Llandovery RFC v Newport RFC Friday 19 March Bedwas RFC v Cardiff Rugby Pontypool RFC v Newport Saturday 20 March Cross Keys RFC v Ebbw Vale Tuesday 23 March Pontypool RFC v Llanelli RFC Wednesday 24 March Ebbw Vale RFC v Newport RFC Saturday 27 March Pontypool RFC v Cross Keys Tuesday 30 March Cross Keys RFC v Llanelli RFC Neath v Bedwas RFC Wednesday 31 March Cardiff RFC v Newport RFC Pontypridd v Ebbw Vale
14:30 19:00 14:15 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 19:30 19:15 19:15 12:15 19:15 19:15 14:30 19:15 19:15 14:30 19:15 19:15 19:15 19:15
Rugby aids communications development for college staff FIRST Campus is a partnership between higher education institutions, further education colleges and schools in South East Wales. Through collaboration with key partners such at Newport Gwent Dragons, we aim to encourage all generations to take part in inspirational and exciting new ways of learning together. The development of exciting new initiatives were top of the agenda as First Campus and Newport Gwent Dragons Community Education met before Christmas. After a tour of the stadium and facilities, staff from First Campus undertook a writing workshop with the Dragons Community and Media departments to explore different styles of communication and writing. The workshop culminated in a challenge to write about their experiences at Rodney Parade using the techniques they had learned for a match programme article. Here are two examples of the work undertaken during the educational workshop. Mind and Muscle The FC Partnership were pleased to discover psychology at work in helping the Dragons over tough opposition on their recent visit to Rodney Parade.
The pink away changing room was an excellent example of showing pupils that there is more to rugby than just what happens on the pitch. On the tour they not only learned that the pink could give the away team a psychological disadvantage but also about the importance of staying fit in the “Dragons’ Den” and the benefits of pre and post-match nutrition. In a similar way, success as a sports star is dependant on far more than talent alone. It’s about determination, teamwork, skill sharing and although you may not find yourself on the pitch, there are many other ways to work in sport and support your favourite rugby stars. Clever clogs on Parade On the 8th December 2009, clever clogs from First Campus met staff at Rodney Parade to explore pink psychology and raising aspirations. As a motivational tool, rugby can be used to tackle underachievement by changing lives in the changing rooms. From pink walls to dressing room capers, motivational talks demonstrated the nitty gritty reality of hard work required to succeed in life. As minds met over the trophies, the prize of shared aims scored a try.
See the big picture at Rodney Parade DRAGONS supporters will be able to come together at Rodney Parade to support Wales during this season’s RBS Six Nations Series. All five of Wales’ matches will be shown on the big screen in the Rodney Hall to allow fans to enjoy the cracking Rodney Parade
atmosphere while cheering on their national side. The bar will be open to the public and curry, rice and chips will be on sale for just £1.
WALES’ REMAINING RBS SIX NATIONS FIXTURES 2010 Sat 13 March 2010 Sat 20 March 2010 44
Living Wales MARCH 2010
Ireland v Wales (Croke Park) 2.30pm Wales v Italy (Millennium Stadium) 2.30pm www.livingwalesmag.co.uk
MARCH DRAGONS
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in association with
Junior Dragons THE Junior Dragons is the Newport Gwent Dragons’ club for our young supporters in association with Warburton’s and Cineworld. At the Dragons match against the Ospreys, some of our Junior Dragons got to support the Dragons from the front as they joined pupils from Undy and Magor schools in our guard of honour. To say thank you to our young supporters, they had an exclusive signing session with Dragons stars Joe Bearman, Alex Walker and Junior Dragons club patron Luke Charteris. The Junior Dragons were also joined by Daniel May, who is an ambassador for the Dragons charity – Sparkle. In addition to the session, club member Dylon Pollock was the match mascot for the game and led the teams out onto the pitch after meeting his favourite Dragons player, James Arlidge. THE JUNIOR DRAGONS For just £25 (or £10 if you are a season ticket holder) you can sign up to the hottest junior rugby supporters club in Wales! For full details of the Junior Dragons Club to sign up, pop into the club shop after the game or call the ticket hotline on 01633 674990
Player Profile HOANI MACDONALD KNOWN as “Hoon” to his teammates, Hoani MacDonald joined the Dragons in September 2008 on a 2-year deal and made his Dragons debut against Wasps in 2008. Having played with Tom Willis, James Arlidge and Grant Webb before coming to Rodney Parade, Hoani came to the Dragons with high recommendations and has proven his ability. A strong lineout jumper, Hoani is also a mobile forward who makes good yards in attack. The highly-rated Highlanders’ Super 14 forward comes from one of the most noted sporting families in New Zealand as the fourth successive generation of his family to be selected to play rugby for the Maoris, with his great grandfather, Jack Senior, a representative in 1913-14 and his father Iwi making his
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debut in 1957. His mother Judy and father Iwi were both New Zealand darts champions. Judy became the World darts singles champion in 1991 and with Hoani’s father they were runners up in the pairs, an achievement which won NZ the world cup and Judy went on to be voted Southland Sportsperson of the Year. Having excelled as a Southland basketballer, Hoani played for the Junior All Blacks in 2006 and joined Rodney Parade following playing duties with the New Zealand Maori squad for the 2008 IRB Pacific Nations Cup tournament. He has suffered this season with a shoulder injury, but he is now back to full fitness and looking to help the Dragons finish the season on a high. Off the pitch, Hoani holds an accountancy degree and is a keen golfer.
As a Junior Dragon you will receive loads of fantastic benefits including:- A letter from Paul Turner and Junior Dragons patron, Luke Charteris - Vouchers for free match tickets* - A gift voucher for the Club Shop - Discount vouchers for the ever popular Dragons Easter and - - Summer Skills Camps - A Junior Dragons Club member tshirt - An exclusive ‘Behind the Scenes’ day during the Easter holidays Automatic entry into a draw to win a brilliant Britvic mountain bike - Chance to win a signed shirt at the end of the season But that’s not all! Our friends at Cineworld Newport will also give you: Free ‘Movies for Juniors’ tickets Four free tickets on your birthday We look forward to hearing from you soon and welcoming you to the fantastic new Junior Dragons Club!
MARCH 2010 Living Wales
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MARCH 2010 WELSH PAGE
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Welsh language
Welcome to the Welsh page Croeso i’r dudalen gymraeg During the 6 Nations we have passed St Valentine’s Day and the Welsh day of St Dwynwen, and St David’s Day.This month Eleri Tyler gives us Welsh phrases of love and rugby.
Lessons in Welsh love ST Dwynwen’s Day has passed but all is not lost for the cariadon (lovers) in our midst as Diwrnod Sant Ffolant is just around the corner. Have you prynu blodau (bought flowers)? Maybe it’s time to trefnu pryd (arrange a meal) in a t? bwyta (restaurant) for rywun arbennig (someone special). Or maybe you have plucked up the courage to ask the local pisyn (catch) mas am ddiod (out for drink). Some of the following phrases may be useful if you are teimlo’n rhamantus (feeling romantic).
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Wyt ti’n dod yma yn fynych? Wyt ti eisiau diod? Ga i Un botel o win coch os gwelwch yn dda Rwy’n dy garu di Wyt ti moyn magad? Hoffwn i gael y bil os gwelwch yn dda Wnei di fy mhriodi i? Living Wales MARCH 2010
Do you come here often? Would you like a drink? May I have One bottle of red wine please I love you Fancy a cuddle? I would like the bill please Will you marry me?
OF course, if the love life isn’t working out at least it’s that time of year when one can seek consolation in a good old game of rugby…if you are French that is… Speaking of rygbi, watching it is a brilliant way to pick up some more Welsh. Jonathan Davies has a program on S4C on the eve of every game with lots of cellwair (banter) from co-hosts Nigel Owens and Rowland Phillips. S4C also has lots of coverage of Pencampwriaeth y Chwe Gwlad (Six Nations Championship), Magners League and Cwpan Heineken. Keep the Welsh sylwebaeth (commentary) on, turn on the is-deitlau (subtitles) and absorb the angerdd (passion). It’s cheaper and more reliable than blodau. Unfortunately I wedi torri calon (have a broken heart) already after the gem agoriadol (opening game) and my Anglo-Welsh marriage is feeling the effects of more Siberian weather. Falle blwyddyn nesaf cawn ni’r gamp lawn. (Maybe next year for the Grand Slam). Ga i gin a tonic arall (another)? Iechyd da! Bottoms up www.livingwalesmag.co.uk
MARCH 2010 WELSH PAGE
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MARCH OPINION
10/3/10
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Final word
Portugal A PlACE INTHE SUN
opinion
Beautiful Family apartment in
by Meme Morgan
NO JUSTICE! I’M sure I am not the only one who felt sickened to hear that child murderer Jon Venables had broken his bail conditions and was back in prison. Not sickened to hear that he was back in prison, but sickened to hear that this vile individual had been allowed anonimity and to roam the streets largely at free will. I, probably like millions of others well remember the news that reported the horrific murder of toddler James Bulger by Jon Venables and Robert Thompson back in 1993. The whole country was horrified by the severity of the crime that the two ten year olds committed when they battered to death a defenseless two year old, and left him on a railway track. The two boys served eight years for murder and were released in 2001 with new identities. Jon Venables is now back in prison after allegations of a serious crime being committed. Apparently Jack Straw is refusing for his identity to be revealed and supports the need for secrecy to protect him against vigilantes. Why? He is now 27 years of age and should be tried for his crime as an adult and his identity revealed. And so what if people got to him? maybe then James Bulger's parents would get the justice that they so deserve for their son. I only hope that his fellow in-mates realise who he is and deal with him in a way that they find appropriate.
GHOST BUSTERS AND now onto something a little less heavy but very bizarre! An online auction in New Zealand attracted more than 200,000 page views on the Trade Me website, where two glass phials said to contain the ghosts of an old man and a young girl sold for NZ$2,000. The ghosts were said to have been captured in a house by an exorcist and stored in holy water. The lot was viewed nearly 220,000 times in a week, with the closing bid going to a company called Safer Smoke NZ, which produces electric cigarettes. The company are now inviting suggestions as to what they should do with the ghosts. Um, hello, I have a suggestion.....something which I can’t print, but do I really have to point out the obvious? you've been had! Mind you, what would you expect from a company that makes electric cigarettes?
COMPETITIVE PARENTS FINALLY, I never realised, until my young daughter started school, the amount of competition that exists between parents. For example, recently she was asked to make a dragon from materials of her choice for St Davids day. Now I'm in no way arty, and find things like this very difficult to make. However, with the help of a friend, the body of the dragon was made with a balloon and paper mache and then it was up to my daughter to decorate it, and make it into something that vaguely resembled a dragon. We proudly took this to school, only to find that some parents must have spent more than a fortnight designing masterpieces that wouldn't have looked out of place in the Tate Art Gallery. Maybe I misunderstood the fact that it wasn't homework for the children, it was in fact homework for the parents. The only consolation that I could take out of it was that my daughter's creation was largely her own and she was proud of it, and those parents who must have spent hours designing their masterpieces obviously don't work and have the time to mess around. I dread to think what her Easter bonnet will end up looking like. I'm sure some parents have already entered their creations to appear in the next edition of Vogue!
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Living Wales MARCH 2010
Nr Albufeira, Central Algarve Beautiful First Floor Apartment in quiet Complex with Communal Pool. Beautiful Setting only 5 Minutes Walk to Beach. Sleeps 4/5 (2 Bedrooms). Also includes comfortable lounge, 2 bedrooms, kitchen, dining area.
Visit www.saorafael.co.uk PERFECT FAMILY
For further information and HOLIDAY AWAITS!!! prices call Barbara on
029 20254855
or 0780 9270407
DATES AVAILABLE TO RENT THROUGHOUT THE YEAR
PERFECT FAMILY HOLIDAY AWAITS!!!
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MARCH 10 ADVERTS
7/3/10
18:58
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PLACES TO STAY HOME & AWAY Hotel/Camping/Cafe
Aberdare
Dare Valley Country Park
Three occupants (Bunks) £66 Four occupants (Bunks) £83
Llangybi nr Usk
Family Room (Double Bed, Bunk & Cot) £72
Bed & Breakfast
The White Hart Village Inn
Standard Room Rate: Single £65 Double £85 Twin £85 Family £105
Open: All year Rooms: 28 Ensuite: 28 The Ty Newydd Country Hotel is set at the end of a lengthy drive off the A4059 on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park and has everything you have been looking for - tranquillity, comfort, excellent food and some of the most beautiful scenery in Wales right on its doorstep. The 28 en suite bedrooms are complemented by the elegant Foxhunter Suite with its adjoining Olympic Bar; a particularly popular choice for weddings and banquets, the George Restaurant, serving freshly prepared locally sourced food, the residents bar with three quarter height oak panelling and residents lounge with an open fireplace and adjoining gallery. All our standard rates include full Welsh breakfast.
Crickhowell
Deluxe Room Rate: Single £80 Double £80 Twin £80 Family £120 Superior Room Rate: Single £95 Double £115 Twin N/A Family N/A Special Corporate Rate Dinner Bed & Breakfast £70
Hotel/Restaurant
The Dragon Hotel
Llangybi T. 01633 450 258 www.whitehartvillageinn.com Email: info@whitehartvillageinn.com
Crickhowell T. 01873 810 362 www.dragoncrickhowell.co.uk Open: All year Rooms: 15 Ensuite: 15
Our 4 star graded accommodation is comprised of two characterful rooms, located on the first floor of The White Hart Village Inn, within the Victorian extension originally built as Stables. The Main Bedroom has a Double-Bed and en-suite with new bathroom suite comprising shower, sink and WC. If required the adjoining Second Single Bedroom can also be made available to provide a family suite to accommodate two adults and a child (we accept children aged 12 or over) or third adult.
bathroom with shower - Complimentary tea/coffee tray
Hotel/Restaurant
CF44 9SX, Hirwaun T. 01685 813433 E. relax@tynewyddcountryhotel.co.uk www.tynewyddcountryhotel.co.uk
Here at Dare Valley Country Park we can offer you and your family a choice of quality hotel rooms or top class camping and caravanning pitches. With easy access to a facilities block on the caravan site, a refurbished café offering a variety of local produce, loads of walks and things to see and do, Dare Valley Country Park has room to accommodate everyone! Hotel Accommodation Refurbished rooms, en-suite facilities and peace and quiet, great ingredients for a relaxing stay at Dare Valley Country Park.
Facilities include - Freeview TV - Hairdryer - En suite
Hirwaun
The Ty-Newydd Country Hotel
Aberdare T. 01685 874672 www.darevalleycountrypark.co.uk
Standard Room Rate: Single £39 Double/Twin £50
TO BOOK YOUR SPACE CALL 01495 750600
and Continental Breakfast - Alarm clock
The Dragon is a very old hostelry located on the High Street. The town is regarded as a jewel of the Brecon Beacons /Black Mountains National Park. Nestling in the gorgeous Usk valley, Crickhowell is surrounded by mountains and comprises a Norman castle and a collection of early Georgian houses and cottages. It's a beautiful spot and a perfect base for adventures in the National Park.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi internet access
Standard Room Rate: Single £45 Double/Twin £65
Torfaen
Family Room e.g. 2 Adults + 2 Children (16 and under) - En-Suite £105
Superior Room Rate: Double £78 Twin N/A Family N/A
Pub/Restaurant/Accomodation
The Rifleman’s Arms NP4 9QS, Blaenavon T. 01495 792297 Open: All year Rooms: 5 Ensuite: 5 Plus sauna room Welcoming, quality accommodation in comfortable, well equipped guestrooms. Fully Licensed, large family dinning room. Room rate: Single £30 Double £60 Family £80. www.livingwalesmag.co.uk
MARCH 2010 Living Wales
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MARCH 10 ADVERTS
7/3/10
18:36
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discover the wonderful world of the Spice Merchant Bring your family and choose from our extensive menu which includes a fantastic fish and grill menu as well as all your traditional Indian favourites. We also have a fantastic children’s menu. See all our menus online.
A fantastic family day in Cardiff Bay! Book your table now on
02920 498 9 84 www.spicemerchantcardiff.co.uk
MARCH 10 ADVERTS
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c
The Big Windsor, Stuart Street, Cardiff Bay. CF10 5BW
MARCH 10 ADVERTS
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