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Waterfront Gwledd y Gaeaf Winterland ar y Glannau Museum Park, Swansea 13 Nov 2015 - 3 Jan 2016 swanseachristmas.com
Parc yr Amgueddfa, Abertawe 13 Tach 2015 - 3 Ion 2016 nadoligabertawe.com
Santa’s Grotto Groto Sion Corn
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Amazing
Competitions to be WON inside!
Corporate discount scheme for local and national companies, and Child care vouchers accepted
School and Home pick up’s available!
‘Where your child is our main concern’ • Day Nursery, Pre-School & Holiday Club for 0-10 Years • CCTV & Second To None Security • Large Outdoor Play Area & Garden • Welsh Speaking Members of Staff • Home Cooked Healthy Meals • Holiday Club Ex Rates 5 - 10 years • Exceptional Standards and highly recommended • Full & Part Time Places - Very Flexible • Planned Activities All Day and Daily Activity Record • Collection Service From Home or School • All Staff Fully Vetted & CRB Checked
Open
7am - 8:30pm Monday to Saturday 52 weeks
Happy babies & children in a safe, stimulated environment, where they can develop & reach their full potential
www. lakesidedaynursery .co.uk 01792 781010 • Email : lakesidedaynursery@btconnect.com Coronet Way, Enterprise Park, Swansea SA6 8RH
St. Michael’s School Co-Ed Independent day and boarding school 3-18 years
Culture of Achievement OPEN DAY FRIDAY 6TH NOVEMBER 9.30-12.00
taster day r o t n e tm in o k an app parents Call us to boo al for working
ide school care – r e ft a d n a re P th West Wales u o S ss ro c a le ort availab Minibus transp chool in Wales
tS e & Co-Ed) Top Independen (The Times 2015 - Non-Selectiv
www.stmikes.co.uk St. Michael’s School | Llanelli | 01554 820 325 | office@stmikes.co.uk
Contents
P.23
P.15-16
What’s On this Chiristmas...
P.7-11 Page 7-11 | What’s On
Page 23 | Mumprenuer
Page 13 | Millennium Centre
Page 26 | Make a sock snowman
Page 18 | Book reviews
Page 29 | Is my child dyslexic?
Page 21 | Panto Mania
Page 30 | Grow a crystal Christmas tree
Personalised Letter to Santa...
Did you know that: • Cerebral palsy is the largest disability in children in the world today. • Every six hours another child is born who will have cerebral palsy. • Any woman who is pregnant could have a child with cerebral palsy. • Cerebral palsy can affect movement, sensation, perception, cognition, communication and eating and drinking. In some children, all of these functions may be affected. • Although the brain damage that occurs is permanent and there is no cure available, Bobath therapy makes a real and positive difference to the life of every child who has cerebral palsy.
Help raise funds for Bobath Children’s Therapy Centre Thank you for supporting Wales this Christmas by Bobath Children’s Therapygrandchild, Centre Wales sending your child, Bobath Children’s Therapy Centre Wales would like to keep in touch with you. friend orhearloved agiving unique, If you would rather not from us as one a result of your details on this occasion please tick this box. personalised letter from Father Christmas. Office Use Only Date order received Date order sent Transaction number
Do you know someone who would like a letter from Father Christmas?
Date order processed Receipt number
Letters are available in English or Welsh and are I enclose a cheque for £ printed premium Payable to ‘Bobath Children’son Therapy Centre Wales’ paper to be treasured forever. Payment by credit card Step 4: Your Payment Details Payment by cheque
I authorise you to debit my Mastercard / Visa
To add to the excitement we will also send a bag ofSecurity No: Start Date: Expiry Date: special reindeer food Name as it appears on the card: to be sprinkled on Signature: Date: Christmas Eve.
credit card for £ Card Number:
3
Bobath Children’s Therapy Centre Wales provides specialist physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech and language therapy to children all over Wales who have cerebral palsy Contact: Bobath Children’s Therapy Centre Wales 19 Park Road, Wichurch, Cardiff CF14 7BP
To order your letter today please visit www.bobathwales.org or call 029 2052 2600
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Registered Charity: 1010183
Nov/Dec 2015
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas...
Pantos, Christmas party plans, Winterland, ice skating and Silent Night @ the Liberty... (this was a great event last year, so go check it out, to kick start your Christmas!). Find all your festive family information in the bumper What’s on section and don’t forget to visit the competitions page for some amazing prizes to treat the kids this Christmas. I hope you all have a lovely restful holiday and don’t get to stressed out with the shopping. Merry Christmas & have a happy new year. See you in January!
P.33 Page 31 | Dr. Louise... Meningitis
Page 33 | Christmas gingerbread biscuits Page 36 | Competitions!
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Kid's Stuff
Sunday 15th November 2015
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20,000 copies delivered into primary schools from SA1 to SA14 Next edition: Jan/Feb 2016 copy deadline: Dec 14th 2015 contact: sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk Tel: 07979 283096 www.kidscenemagazine.co.uk Follow us kidsceneswansea @kidscene1
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SilentAT Night The Liberty
Mulled wine, hot chestnuts & other refreshments available.
. ÂŁ3 Tickets
Available from the Liberty Stadium or
Tre
es
free potted tree with
LEGO christmas figure on all spends over £40 at trostre park LIMITED NUMBER AVAIALBLE
ILABLE C A V A NOW STRE PAR AT TRO ANELLI LL
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£10
OPEN FROM Monday 16th November until 3pm Christmas Eve Trees NOW available at Three Crosses, Troestre Trostre Parc Llanelli Margam Park and Penllergaer Forestry. Tel: 01792 872094 | 07811 949239 Poundffald Farm, Three Crosses, Swansea, SA4 3PB General Opening Times Mon - Fri 9.30am to 7pm Sat & Sun 9.30am to 5pm
Santa Times
(From 23rd November) Mon - Fri 9:30am to 6:30pm Sat & Sun 9:30am to 4pm Xmas Eve 9.30am to 3pm
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N OV E M B E R
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15th - NCT Nearly New Sale at LC2 Swansea. 10.30-1pm.
7th - 29th Nov - November Weekends at the WWT Wetlands. 11- 4.30pm. Family bird watching and craft workshops.
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13th Nov - Jan 3rd - Waterfront Winterland. Swansea’s awardwinning Christmas attraction returns, with all the magic and wonder of the festive season right in the heart of the city. Ice skating is still top of the bill with two fantastic outdoor ice rinks – the Admiral Rink and a children’s rink, festive funfair plus a wonderful Santa’s Grotto complete with elves and an indoor café – all the ingredients for a perfect day out!
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14th - Tree Fu Tom at the Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen. 1pm. To book: theatrausirgar.co.uk 0845 2263510
14th Nov - 24th Dec Breakfast or Tea with Father Christmas starts at Wyvale Garden Centre. Santa’s Grotto opens today too! To book: wyevalegardencentres.co.uk
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find themselves involved in many adventures that todayin a memorable finale. Wonderful nostalgic family entertainment. Telephone: 01792 475715
Christmas Parade and Light Switch On in Swansea City Centre. Santa returns on Sunday 15th November from 5pm to switch on the Christmas Lights in Swansea. Come along with the kids and wave to Santa as he passes in his sleigh.
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16th - Gower Fresh Trees opens it doors until 3pm on Christmas Eve.
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18th-19th - The Railway Children at the Swansea Grand Theatre By E Nesbit, in a new adaptation by Francis Hardy, presented by Fluellen Theatre Company. When their father is wrongly imprisoned Bobbie, Peter and Phyllis find themselves in straightened circumstances. But their new home is near the railway, and they soon...
20th - Llanelli Christmas Carnival in Llanelli town centre. 15,000 people celebrate the start of the Christmas period with a huge carnival parade from Festival Fields to the town centre, live music, stalls, refreshments, aerial fireworks display over the historic town hall, large funfair from the Showman’s Guild of Wales & the official switching on of the lights.
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21st Nov - 21st Dec ( Sat & Sun only) - Christmas at the Tudor Merchant’s House. Visit the house in its Christmas Glory 1500s style. Learn more about the 12 days of Christmas, what people ate how they celebrated. 11-2.30pm.
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23rd Nov until Christmas Eve at 3pm - Visit Santa at Winter Wonderland, Gower Fresh Trees from today until Christmas Eve! Mon-Fri - 9.30-6.30pm..Sat & Sun - 9.30-4pm & Christmas Eve - 9.30-3pm. Contact Us: 07811 949239
27 27th Nov- Dec 6th - Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs at the Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot. To book call 01639 763213/763214.
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28th - 29th - Edwardian Christmas Fayre at Dinefwr Castle and Park, A mansion courtyard filled with gift ideas tasty treats. Free parking mulled wine for all! 28th-29th - Traditional Christmas Weekends at Tredegar House. Get into the festive spirit with our traditional ‘A Christmas Carol’ themed activities. 11am-4pm. Visit Father Christmas!
D E C E M B E R
1 1st - Father Christmas Needs a Wee at Swansea Grand Theatre. Shows at 11.00am, 2.00pm & 5.00pm.
Music will be provided by the Swansea Salvation Army Band, The Ospreys Supporters Choir along with Mal Pope (film maker, broadcaster, & singer song writer).
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4th, 11th, 18th Christmas Carol Concerts at Dyffryn Gardens. Get into the Christmas Spirit and hear our local choirs sing some Carols. 4th - Santa in Love at the Gwyn Hall, Neath at 1.30pm. Have you ever wanted to know a secret? You’ll never guess, so if you want to find out then join Santa and his friends in this fun filled family musical complete with games, giggles and all your favourite Christmas songs. Santa will be available after the show to meet your little ones and give them a present, so don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the smiles! 7pm. £15 per ticket, includes a glass of bubbly and a mince pie.
1st - Silent Night at the Liberty Stadium. 7pm. Tickets £3 Swansea City AFC, The Ospreys, Swansea Hope and Sports Chaplaincy Wales, invite you to join them in celebrating Christmas together in the unique surroundings of the Liberty Stadium on Tuesday, 1st December at 7pm (Doors are open from 6.00 pm) The evening promises to be a lively mixture of carols, music and readings with Swansea City AFC and The Ospreys taking part alongside a number of special guests including: Kev Johns (Swansea Sound; Panto and Swansea City Chaplain) plus other Guests!...
5th - 6th DECEMBER
Tea Party with Father Christmas at St Fagans.
Come and enjoy a tea party to remember with the Christmassy couple, listen to their amazing stories and if you’re good, they’re sure to give you a gift.11am, 1pm and 3pm (Please note Saturday 11am sessions will all be conducted in the Welsh Language). £14 per child (ticket price include one adult to accompany and booking fee). Suitable for ages 4-12yrs. To book tickets: ticketlineuk.com/ event/st-fagans 5th-6th - Christmas Fair at Llanerchaeron. Soak up the magic of the festive season enjoy a great day’s shopping at our annual Christmas Fair. 11am-4pm. £4 Adult entry fee. 5th - Reindeer Day at Margam Park. Come and meet the Gower Fresh Reindeer, Buy your Christmas Tree, Free Christmas Quiz, Meet Jimmy juggles the Cheeky Christmas Elf, enjoy a Winter Walk the Park.
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5th - Santas Post Office opening in Shoppers Walk Arcade. Swansea. Children can interact with Winter Characters from 11-3pm
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D E CE M B E R
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5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 22, 23 & 24 Dec - Santa Magical Steam Train at Gwili Steam Railway, Carmarthen. “All aboard” Santa’s Magical Steam Train for a Traditional Seasonal Treat! Ride the Steam Train to Santa’s Grotto at Llwyfan Cerrig Station where a heated marquee with an exciting program of entertainment and inclusive refreshments awaits you. Enjoy a Mince Pie and a glass of sherry while you wait to visit Santa in his grotto (goodie bags for children 1-5yrs). Prebooking essential. gwili-railway. co.uk 01267 238213 5th - Festive Funday at the National Waterfront Museum Swansea. Featuring Olaf the snowman, real donkeys, carols around the tree and a special visit from Santa! 12-4pm. FREE event. 6th Dec- 20th Dec - Feed the birds with Santa ( Sundays only) at the WWT Wetlands Swansea. At 2.45pm on Sundays in December running up to Christmas, you can join Santa and help him to feed all of our birds! This is a magical experience for young children and not to be missed - don’t forget your camera! 6th & 20th -Santa Sunday Lunch at the Village Hotel. For more info: Village-hotels.co.uk/christmas
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7th - CYW Christmas Show 2015 from S4C at the Gwyn Hall, Neath. ‘Cyw’s magical journey across the country!’
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11th - 20th - Cinderella at the Pontardawe Arts Centre. A traditional pantomime for the whole family. 11th Dec - Jan 3rd Beauty and the Beast at the Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl To book contact 01656 815995
11th Dec-12th Jan - Jack and the Beanstalk at the Grand Theatre, Swansea To book call 01792 475715
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Santa Deer Feeds at Margam Park - Saturday 12th , Sunday 13th, Saturday 19th, Sunday 20th, Monday 21st, Tuesday 22nd and Wednesday 23rd December TICKET ONLY EVENT. Deer feeds 11:00am 11:20am. Come and see Santa feed the Margam deer. Please arrive at 10.30am. (Deer feed to start promptly at 11.00am). Ticket Price: Cars £15.00 12th - Come along and meet The Winterbottoms, a snowman family visiting Swansea City Centre for the holidays 11-3pm. Also create your very own Christmas ornament in our Post Office work shop. This Saturday is the launch of the Reindeer Route, will you be able to find the 9 reindeers hidden around... the City Centre? The reindeers will be hiding in the windows of businesses across the city waiting for your help to get back to Santa in time for Christmas!
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12th-13th - Family Craft Activity at St Fagans. A chance to make something special for your Christmas display this year. 11-1pm & 2-4pm. Free event. 12th -13th - Santa Show plus Christmas Craft Fair at the National Botanical Garden of Wales Come and see our fabulous new festive show starring owls from Pembrokeshire Falconry. Shows start at 11am. And Santa has a present for each child. Santa Show tickets are £3. 13th - Cinderella Pantomime Lunch at the Village Hotel. For more info: Village-hotels.co.uk/ christmas
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14th - Dacw Mam yn Dwad - Gwyn Hall, Neath at 10am. A brand new Welsh language pantomime for children between 3-9 years old and their families from the ever-popular Martyn Geraint. The famous Welsh nursery rhyme “Dacw Mam yn Dwad” is brought to life in a mix of laughter, dance, puppetry, music, maths and mayhem! 14th - Monday Munchkins Santa Visit at the WWT Wetlands. Enjoy Christmas craft activities, a Christmas story, and a visit from Santa! Toddlers can help Santa to feed the birds and he will give them all a tasty treat to say thank you! All pre-school children welcome. As with all Monday Munchkins sessions, the Santa visit is included in the admission price (FREE for members). Monday Munchkins runs from 11am until 12pm every Monday during term time.
Tea Party with Father Christmas at St Fagans.
Come and enjoy a tea party to remember with the Christmassy couple, listen to their amazing stories and if you’re good, they’re sure to give you a gift.11am, 1pm and 3pm (Please note Saturday 11am sessions will all be conducted in the Welsh Language). £14 per child (ticket price include one adult to accompany and booking fee). Suitable for ages 4-12yrs. To book tickets: ticketlineuk.com/ event/st-fagans 18th - Newton House Community Christmas Carols, Dinefwr Park. Open access Christmas performances at Newton House of local schools and groups for visitors to enjoy. Come and join us for some festivities and enjoy a glass of mulled wine. 11 - 6pm.
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19th - Christmas Holiday Fun at the WWT Wetlands all day family fun including, telescope in the tower, snow goose talk and a winter craft workshop. 11-5pm. 19th - Arrendelle’s famous sisters Anna & Elsa will be visiting Santa’s Post Office, Shoppers Walk Arcade, to tell stories to all the good little boys and girls. They will also be available for photographs and autographs! Anna & Elsa will only be visiting Santa’s Post office between 12-3pm so be sure to visit and get your Frozen souvenir! 19th-22nd - Tea Party with Father Christmas at St Fagans. (See blue box above for further details.)
19th-20th - Santa Show and Christmas Food Fair at the National Botanical Garden of Wales Come and see our fabulous new festive show starring owls from Pembrokeshire Falconry. Shows start at 11am. And Santa has a present for each child. Santa Show tickets are £3.
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23rd - For their last day in Swansea before the elves need to get back to the North Pole they will be announcing the winners of The Golden Ticket and Reindeer Route competitions at the Post Office, Shoppers Walk Arcade. Also come along and see Jingle Bells, Santa has sent his favorite Reindeer and Elf to entertain all the little boys and girls in the City Centre 12-4pm.
24 19th - A Muppets Christmas Carol at the Gwyn Hall, Neath. 11am.
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20th - Robin nest box workshop at the WWT Wetlands Llanelli. Receive expert one-toone tuition to make your very own professional quality robin nest box! Put the box up in your garden to give baby robins their first home, or wrap it up for the perfect Christmas present! Each box costs £6.50. Drop in any time between 11am and 12pm, and between 1pm and 4pm.
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21st - Performance Factory Productions Presents Miracle on 34th Street at the Ffwrnes Theatre, Llanelli. Tuesday 22nd & Wednesday 23rd - 1.00pm & 7.00pm. Thursday 24th - 1pm. One of the most popular films of all time comes to the stage in this magical production of ‘Miracle on 34th Street’.
24th - Father Christmas Lunch at the Marriott Hotel. To book: claire.cole@ marriotthotels.com or call 0172 634824
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28th - Cinderella at The Miners’Theatre, Ammanford 1.00pm & 3.30pm. F: £8, C: £6, FT: £22. The Panto Company bring the classic Cinderella to the Miner’s this Christmas, delighting both children and adults alike and bringing a little magic to your festive season. Bullied by her two Ugly Sisters, Cinders’ future looks bleak until her Fairy Godmother casts a spell and sends her to the Royal Ball. Let Buttons be your host for an afternoon of traditional panto fun. With plenty of parking space for your pumpkin! theatrausirgar.co.uk
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...more than jus t swimming!
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Wales National Pool Swansea, Sketty Lane, Swansea SA2 8QG
enquiries@walesnationalpoolswansea.co.uk
Please mention Kidscene Issue 20 when enquiring/booking!
Christmas at Wales Millennium Centre
T
his Christmas, Wales Millennium Centre will be bustling with festive fun for all the family.
From late November, a Fairytale Forest will be taking root in the Centre’s foyer. With free craft workshops every weekend, participants can create plenty of trees, plants, flowers and foliage to fill out the forest. Taking inspiration from the world of fairytale, stories will be woven into the forest as it grows. From giant bean-stalks to gingerbread houses, big bad wolves to Rapunzel’s tower, there’ll be a new fairytale to explore each weekend. (Every Sat & Sun 28 Nov - 20 Dec & 21 - 23 Dec). On the Donald Gordon Stage, Shrek The Musical (8 Dec - 10 Jan) is the perfect show for all the family. Join unlikely hero Shrek and his loyal steed Donkey as they embark on a quest to rescue the beautiful (if slightly temperamental) Princess Fiona from a fire breathing, love-sick dragon. Add the diminutive Lord Farquaad, a gang of fairytale misfits, and a biscuit with attitude, and you’ve got the biggest, brightest musical comedy around. Featuring all new songs as well as cult Shrek anthem, I’m a Believer, Shrek The Musical brings all
the much-loved DreamWorks characters to life, in an all-singing, all-dancing extravaganza. Not forgetting Father Christmas, he’ll be busy working away in his beautiful grotto, reading through his letters, deciding who’s been naughty or nice, checking his maps, and eating a few mince pies! Come along and visit him for free, see what goes into his preparations for the big night of Christmas deliveries and create a letter for him so he remembers what it is you really want this year. And because all those preparations are hard work, Father Christmas will be popping in to ffresh to re-fuel with afternoon tea. Join him for sandwiches and plenty of festive treats. (Grotto visits and afternoon tea: Every Sat & Sun 28 Nov - 20 Dec & 21 - 23 Dec). Find out more at www.wmc.org.uk/ christmas
Waterfront Winterland 13 Nov 2015 - 3 Jan 2016
There’ll be festive fun galore from 13 November until 3 January, when Museum Park, in the grounds of the National Waterfront Museum, is transformed for the 10th year into Waterfront Winterland. Enjoy ice skating on the Admiral rink and our children’s rink; visit Santa’s Grotto, experience the family funfair, taste delicious food and returning for 2015 - the Big Wheel.
Christmas Parade and Light Switch-On 15 Nov 2015 - City Centre Santa returns on Sunday 15 November from 5pm to switch on the Christmas Lights in Swansea. Come along with the kids and wave to Santa as he passes in his sleigh.
Radio Partner/Partner Radio
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Gwledd y Gaeaf ar y Glannau 13 Tach 2015 - 3 Ion 2016
Bydd hwyl yr wˆ yl o 13 Tachwedd tan 3 Ionawr, pan fydd Parc yr Amgueddfa, ar diroedd Amgueddfa Genedlaethol y Glannau, unwaith eto’n cael ei drawsnewid yn Wledd y Gaeaf ar y Glannau. Dewch i fwynhau sglefrio iâ ar lyn Admiral a llyn sglefrio’r plant, dewch i ymweld â Groto Siôn Corn, profi’r ffair hwyl i deuluoedd, blasu bwyd hyfryd a rhoi cynnig ar yr Olwyn Fawr sy’n dychwelyd ar gyfer 2015.
Gorymdaith y Nadolig a Chynnau Goleuadau’r Nadolig 15 Tach 2015 - Canol y Ddinas Bydd Siôn Corn yn dychwelyd nos Sul 15 Tachwedd o 5pm i gynnau goleuadau’r Nadolig yn Abertawe. Dewch draw gyda’r plant a chwifio ar Siôn Corn wrth iddo deithio heibio ar ei sled.
Santa’s Grotto Groto Sion Corn
By Phillipa Rae
H
ere are a selection of Christmas books from charming stories that captivate the spirit of Christmas to cheerful zany humour.
This Little Piggy went singing By Margaret Wild (Author) and Deborah Niland (Illustrator) Publisher: Allen & Unwin. This delightful picture book’s premise is based on different versions of the foot tweaking traditional action rhyme, This Little Piggy Very simple and very sweet. Follow these little piggies as they have a myriad of activities in their run up to Christmas.
Great for reading aloud, it is fun and easy for small children to follow. There are ten versions of This Little Piggy, all finishing with various musical instrument punch lines. The final Little Santa Piggy going ho, ho, ho all the way home with presents for all. Guaranteed to get little ones giggling on Christmas morning.
Just Right for Christmas By Birdie Black (Author) and Rosalind Beardshaw (Illustrator) Publisher: Nosy Crow
A charming clever picture book celebrating Christmas and the joy of the giving. On Christmas Eve the King buys a large roll of beautiful bright red cloth. It’s so soft and Christmassy and would be ideal to make a grand cloak for his daughter. The maids make a lovely cloak and leave the scraps outside the backdoor. Jenny the kitchen maid spots the bundle on her way home. Great – cloth to make a jacket for her ma! She leaves her small scraps outside the backdoor. Bertie Badger is delighted! He can make a fantastic hat for his pa! And there’s still more recycling that can be done from the pile of diminishing scraps, Samuel Squirrel and Milly Mouse both make gifts from them and not a piece is wasted. What fine presents that large roll of cloth has made for all of them!
The Christmas Eve Tree By Delia Huddy (Author) and Emily Sutton (Illustrator) Publisher: Walker Books.
This illustrated story tells the tale of the little fir tree. No one wants the crooked and stunted Christmas tree left on the shelf in the store, and it’s given to a homeless boy on Christmas Eve; it only lasts a short time. The tree is saved by a road sweeper who plants it in the park. Unlike his fellow trees which end up on a bonfire. This little tree grows up to be a magnificent, sturdy Fir overlooking the park where visitors can sit or play. A magical story beautifully captured with wonderful illustrations, The Christmas Eve Tree is one story of hope whatever your humble beginnings.
The Smelly Sprout By Allan Plenderleith Publisher: Ravette Publishing Ltd
Allan Plenderleith has taken the universally derided sprout as figure of seasonal fun and turned it into a classic. If you don’t like sprouts then think again This heartwarming tale might change your mind! Unwanted the Smelly Sprout is thrown out into the snow on Christmas Day. Further encounters with various rude individuals such as a noseless snowman and a greedy fox add to his pile of rejections. The Smelly Sprout is a witty short story beautiful told with accompanying simple drawings. Other stories in the series are The Silly Satsuma and The Christmas Carrot
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s t n e v E Fesintive sea Swan From the 5th December until the 23rd December Santa’s elves will be opening Santa’s post Office in Shoppers Walk Arcade in Swansea City Centre. Children of all ages are welcome to come along and write their wish lists which are then sent direct by Reindeer post to Father Christmas himself!
The first 200 children will also receive a Christmas goodie bag! The letter writing workshop will be open from 10-4pm everyday with special events hosted each Saturday, but don’t worry the elves have not forgotten the adults of Swansea! Adults are welcome to come along and sign up for a FREE City Centre loyalty card! This card is jam packed with amazing offers and discounts from the business of Swansea to use on your Christmas shopping!
5th December
Santa’s Post Office
Opening in shoppers walk arcade. Don’t miss our grand opening where children can interact with our winter characters for the holidays between the hours of 11-3pm. Also it is a chance to get involved with the return of our Golden Ticket competition where you could win up to £500 worth of Christmas presents!
This Saturday is the launch of the Reindeer route competition.
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@BigHeartSwansea www.facebook.com/BigHeartSwansea Register & find out more at www. bigheartofswan www.kidscenemagazine.co.uk
sea.co.uk
C Swanome alon g this Dsea City to mont ecemb Centre er h of fes jam pack for a tive a e ctivit d full ies.
19th December
Arrendelle’s famous sisters
Anna & Elsa
will be visiting Santa’s Post Office to tell stories to all the children of Swansea. They will also be available for photographs and autographs! Anna & Elsa will only be visiting Santa’s Post office between 12-3pm so be sure to visit and get your Frozen All competition entries will have souvenir! to be handed in to Santa’s elves by On the 12th December come along and meet 3pm! The Winterbottoms, a snowman family visiting Swansea City Centre for the holidays 11-3pm Also create your very own Christmas ornament in our Post Office work shop.
22nd December
12th December
23rd December
This Saturday is the launch of the Reindeer Route, will you be able to find the 9 reindeers hidden around the City Centre? The reindeers will be hiding in the windows of businesses across the city waiting for your help to get back to Santa in time for Christmas!
For their last day in Swansea before the elves need to get back to the North Pole they will be announcing the winners of The Reindeer Route competition at the Post Office. Also come along and see Jingle Bells, Santa has sent his favorite Reindeer and Elf to entertain all the children of Swansea in the City Centre 12-4pm.
All competition entries must be handed in to the Post Office by the 22nd December 2015.
www.facebook.com/BigHeartSwansea
@BigHeartSwansea
sea.co.uk
Register & find out more at www.bigheartofswan
Jack and the Beanstalk at Swansea Grand Theatre
showing from 11th Dec - 12th Jan 2016
Louie Spence and Kevin Johns launch the Panto You’ve Bean Waiting for! Featuring more comedy than you can shake a bag of magic beans at together with outrageous costumes, fabulous sets, and a huge beanstalk...with one very mean giant at the top of it. With ticket prices to suit all pockets you won’t have to sell the family cow to enjoy spectacular pantomime in Swansea at the Grand Theatre. It’s an adventure you won’t want to miss - book early! Contact the Swansea Grand Theatre on 01792 475715
Cinderella at Pontardawe Arts Centre
Showing from 11th Dec - 20th Dec 2015 You shall go to the ball ! “ The most famous pantomime of them all. The classic rags to riches story. Cinderella lives a life of drudgery, bullied by her horrible Ugly sisters. Her muddled and confused father, Baron Hardup is powerless to intervene (he’s more scared of them than she is!) and her only comfort is her pal Buttons! Prince Charming is holding a ball to meet his bride to be. Can this be the chance that Cinders has been waiting for? Come and join the fun and laughter, and boo at the ugliest sisters in Neath Port Talbot. A traditional pantomime for the whole family. Contact Pontardawe Arts Centre on 01792 863722
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Princess Royal Theatre
Showing from 27th Nov - 6th Dec 2015 “MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE WALL WHAT’S THE GREATEST PANTO OF THEM ALL?” Rainbow Valley Productions present...Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs at the Princess Royal Theatre, starring Owen Money. As written by the Brothers Grimm, the story of Snow White...the seven dwarfs she meets in the forest....the Prince who falls in love with her...and the wicked aunt who plots to get rid of her, contains all the elements that make it a perfect subject for an exciting, entertaining pantomime that will appeal to all ages. Contact the Princess Royal Theatre on 01639 763213/763214
Peter Pan at the Gwyn Hall Join Peter, Wendy and the Lost Boys from Jan 2nd - 10th 2016, as they take on the evil Captain Hook and his band of pirates. Enter a fairytale world that will captivate the young and the young at heart where all your wishes will come true. With beautiful set, dazzling costumes and audience participation that you now expect from us, this year’s production is set to be the highlight of our year once again. A Family Pantomime Adventure Contact the Gwyn Hall on 0300 3656677
Beauty and the Beast at the Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. The Grand Pavilion are thrilled to announce that their spectacular family pantomime Beauty and the Beast will be running from Friday 11th December to Sunday 3rd January. Joylon Dixon will be taking on the role of Dame Dorothy Do It for his first year in Porthcawl. Joining him are Pavilion panto returnees Nathan Guy who is back by popular demand as the hilarious Willy Do It, Danny Grehan as Beauty’s Father and Aled Herbert as Pimple, sidekick to the bully Eugene. New to the venue are Joanna Lucas as Beauty, Alex Crisp as Eugene, Liam Mulvey as the Beast and Amy Burrows as the Enchantress. For more information contact the Grand Pavilion Box Office on 01656 815995
ImagineTheatre
& grand.pa
vilion.porthcawl
@Imagine_Theatr e & @grandp
avilion #porthca
wlpanto
Mum to Mumpreneur Tell us about your business:
Emma
My business is called Joyfully Crafted. I create individual and unique pieces of handmade jewellery and gifts. I work from home and sell at craft fairs as well as having an Etsy shop, website and facebook page. I can do bespoke Jewellery, as well as bulk orders for birthdays and have lovely items ideal for party bags or stocking fillers. I’m due to complete a silversmith course very soon, which will help me to expand the type of jewellery I make to sell and hopefully grow my business.
Where did you begin and what motivated you to start your own business?
My name is Emma and i am married with 3 boys aged 8, 6 and 4. I have always been interested in crafts and I love learning new skills and trying out new things. I learnt the basics of jewellery making a few years ago at a craft workshop. Then 16 months ago my youngest son become very unwell, with a serious illness from which he is still recovering. As a result, I have had to give up my job as a nurse to care for my son at home. It was during this time that I
revisited jewellery making, as a means of escape from everything that had happened. I have developed a love for handcrafting by creating jewellery, sewing and crochet. I started making jewellery to sell at craft and school fairs and had been doing that for just over a year when I started an Etsy shop and launched my business Joyfully Crafted. Being able to do something creative from home that gives me the flexibility to fit in around the kids has been great. I do miss nursing but I know it wouldn’t offer the right balance for me and my family at the moment.
What do you like to do to relax? I love to hide away from the noise and chaos that 3 boys create with my crochet or sewing machine! I love spending time in our garden growing veg and looking after our four chickens. I honestly wouldn’t know how to get through a typical week without my crochet hook close to hand! Being creative is such an outlet to deal with stress and is a positive way in which you can put any negative energies you have to good use. Creativity can provide a positive focus amiss the craziness and stress of life. Visit my Etsy shop for some of my items or email/facebook me for more details. facebook.com/joyfullycraftedwales etsy.com/uk/shop/joyfullycraftedwales joyfullycraftedwales@gmail.com
Host A Jewellery Party... I also do adult jewellery parties, which is a great excuse to get some friends around for a glass of wine and browse some jewellery! I can also offer a bespoke service on the night for a truly unique piece of jewellery. Hosts receive a free gift.
JIMMY’S SWANSEA
NOW OPEN! ALL YOU CAN EAT! From £7.99 per person, including unlimited soft drinks.
Children up to 11 years and under 150 cm are half price! Children up to 3 years and under 90 cm eat free!
Bookings 01792 466 444 jimmysrestaurants.com
JIMMY’S SWANSEA Little Wind St, Swansea SA1 1ED E swansea@jimmysrestaurants.com
Sock Snowman You will need the following: •1 white sock. •Rice for filler •Twine or thick thread •Buttons •Beads for eyes and nose •Extra fabric to make a scarf.
1.Cut the sock on the foot just before the heel. 2.Take the toe section and roll up the open edge to form a hat. 3.Turn the large section inside out and tie off one of the ends, and turn right ways out again. 4.Fill sock with rice and tie off the top. 5.Form the head and tie with twine. 6.Sew or Stick on buttons on front of body and beads on the head. 7.Cut a strip of fabric to make a scarf and tie this round your snowman’s neck 8.Pop on his hat and he is complete.
79 Newton Road, The Mumbles SA3 4BN • t: 01792 366971 email Jan@Gintys.com • facebook Ginty’s Craft & Toys
ImagineTheatre & grand.pavilion.porthcawl
@Imagine_Theatre & @grandpavilion #porthcawlpanto
The FREE Play Equipment Loan Service For Families living in Neath Port Talbot Check out what’s available to loan for FREE on our website: www.playworksnpt.co.uk To register & place an order contact us on: Tel: 01639 873004 @: playworks@npt.gov.uk
Play Training Play Works offer a variety of FREE training courses and workshops for a wide range of target audiences, including childcare providers, youth workers and parents (see website for more info) Up and coming - Christmas Workshop: Thursday 26th November 2015 - 4.306.30pm @ Resolven Building Blocks
playworks Playworks_npt
Is My Child Dyslexic?
A
t Kip McGrath we often get asked this question by worried parents. Here is a helpful checklist may assist you in identifying some of the key signs of dyslexia. * Difficulty with reading or spelling * Puts figures or letters the wrong way round * Reads a word, then fails to recognise it further down the page * Spells a word several different ways without recognising the correct version * Poor concentration span for reading and spelling * Difficulty with time and tense * Confuses left and right * Clearly and accurately answers questions orally but not on paper * Unusually clumsy * Difficulties with sounds in words * Difficulty remembering tables, alphabet etc. * Leaves letters out of words or puts them in the wrong order * Needs to use fingers to make simple calculations * Problems understanding what they have just read * Takes longer than average to do written work * Problems processing language at speed * Areas of strengths and well as weaknesses * Poor confidence and self-esteem
If you have any concerns about your child’s English or maths work then please call Claire on 01792 299996 to discuss how we can help.
Meningitis
M
eningitis is an inflammation of the lining that covers the brain and spinal cord (the meninges). It is usually caused by the germs from a bacterial or viral infection. Most cases in the UK are caused by a bacterium called meningococcus.Other less common causes include pneumococcus, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and Escherichia coli (E. coli).The infection that causes meningitis often causes a blood infection as well (septicaemia). Meningococcus is a common bacterium living harmlessly in the nose and throat of about 1 in 4 people. This bacterium does not survive outside the body. Close contact is needed to pass it on to others, such as intimate kissing, coughing, or sneezing near to others. Rarely, this bacterium overcomes the body’s immune system and gets into the blood to cause meningitis and/ or septicaemia. It is not clear why a few people are prone to serious illness and many other people are carriers of the same bacterium but have no ill effect. Meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia are serious illnesses and well known because of the media coverage associated with outbreaks. There are at least 12 ‘subgroups’B, C, W and Y have historically been the most common in the UK. Meningococcal infection most commonly leads to meningitis or septicaemia. It can also cause pneumonia, septic arthritis, inflammation of heart muscle/valves, & conjunctivitis. Subgroup C’s contribution has fallen dramatically since a childhood vaccination was introduced – it has been adopted in the UK’s routine immunisation schedule since November 1999. In addition to direct immunity, MenC vaccination also provides indirect ‘herd’ immunity. Herd immunity is a form of immunity that occurs when the vaccination of a significant portion of a population (they become immune) provides a measure of protection for individuals who have not developed immunity. The spread of the contagious disease is contained. Serogroup B is now responsible for 80% of cases in the UK; a new vaccination for this group was licensed in the UK in 2013 and it has been introduced into the UK’s routine childhood immunisation schedule for all infants born since July 2015.
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Incidence of meningococcal disease is highest in those aged under 1, followed by those aged 1-5, with a second peak of risk occurring in those aged 15-19 (particularly if living in crowded or closed communities, e.g, barracks and student halls).
The symptoms of meningitis: Often
develop quickly, over a few hours or so. Initially, in children, symptoms non-specific such as feeling and looking unwell, fever, being tired and feeling sick. However, three early warning symptoms that appear, often before the more classic symptoms, are: leg pains, cold hands/feet, pale/dusky/ blue colour of the skin around the lips. Most people are aware of the classical symptoms of meningitis, i.e neck stiffness and rash, but please note that these may not occur. If you suspect meningitis - get medical help immediately. The typical rash associated with meningococcal infection is red/purple. It starts as small spots anywhere on the body, growing to become blotchy/bruises which do not fade when pressed (unlike many other rashes) known as the glass test. Place a clear glass firmly on one of the spots or blotches. If the rash does not fade and you can still see it through the glass, get medical help immediately.The rash is a sign of septicaemia. It may not occur with meningitis alone.
Other symptoms that may occur in babies include: Excessive crying, often
high-pitched or moaning and different to their usual cry. Fast breathing, or unusual patterns of breathing. High temperature Will not take feeds or vomiting, being irritable - especially when picked up and handled. Drowsiness/sleepiness does not wake easily. Jerky movements/stiffness may occur or the complete opposite occurs and the baby is floppy. Other symptoms that may occur in older children and adults include high temperature and shivering, neck stiffness, headache, muscle aches and pains, dislike of bright light, drowsiness or confusion, vomiting.
Treatment: Urgently, with antibiotic injections.
Blood tests and a sample of the fluid that surrounds the spinal cord (a lumbar puncture) may be taken. These tests aim to confirm the diagnosis and identify the bacterium responsible. The antibiotic may be changed depending on the test results.The outlook (prognosis) often depends on how soon antibiotics are given after the illness starts. Most people make a good recovery if treated early enough. There are several complications that may occur after having meningitis. These include Hearing Loss,this is the most common complication, Learning and Behaviour problems, Epilepsy, & Kidney problems.
Quality childcare across South Wales * Caring for babies, toddlers and pre school * Holiday Playscheme - available for 4-11 year olds * After School Club - includes pick up from local school * School Run Service - to local schools * 10% full time discount and 10% sibling discount * Discount available to NHS, Council Staff and DVLA * Open to the public Visit our website for more information
www.schoolhouse-daycare.co.uk
Carmarthen
Swansea
Neath Port Talbot
Bridgend
T
hese yummy biscuits make lovely tree decorations, tied in cellophane bags with ribbon for homemade presents, or simply eaten with hot chocolate when watching your favourite Christmas film.
W H AT T O D O Clean your work surface and wash your hands. Put the butter, sugar and syrup in a small saucepan, heat & stir gently until melted.
INGREDIENTS
Sift the flour, bicarb and ginger into a mixing bowl. Add the melted sugar and butter mixture to the
125g unsalted butter 200g dark brown sugar 3 tablespoons golden syrup
flour, gently stir gently to form a soft dough. Sprinkle some flour onto your clean dry surface and rollout the mixture until about 1cm thick. Cut out using your Christmas shape cutters.
300g plain flour
Lay some baking parchment on a baking tray and
1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
place the biscuits on, leaving approx. 3cm between
2 teaspoons ground ginger
the biscuits. Bake at 180 degrees centigrade for around 10 minutes until dark golden.
Sarah Thomas Homebird Bakery Wholesome comfort cakes and savouries for special days and every day. Find Homebird Bakery at Sketty, Pennard & Penclawdd local produce markets & Smock Vintage Events
homebirdbakery@gmail.com www.homebirdbakery.co.uk
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Leave to cool. When nearly cool make a small hole in the top of the biscuits with a skewer if you want to make tree decorations. When cooled completely, ice and decorate. Thread some parcel ribbon through the hole and place on the tree as few days before Christmas.
Enjoy!
GET INTO THE FESTIVE
SPIRIT FOR 2015 CABARET EVENING WITH RACHAEL SUMMER
Friday 4th, 11th & 18th December 2015 Saturday 5th, 12th & 19th December 2015
MARRIOTT DOES MAMMA MIA Friday 4th December 2015 Saturday 12th December 2015
ROCK NIGHT WITH “THE SOMETHINGS” Saturday 5th December 2015
A NIGHT IN WALES WITH TRIBUTE ACT TJ AS SIR TOM JONES Friday 11th December 2015
AN EVENING WITH SARA JONES AS TINA TURNER Friday 18th December 2015
007 CASINO NIGHT WITH “QUEEN OF HEARTS” CASINOS Saturday 19th December 2015
PARTY LUNCHES AND DINNERS From £25.00 per person
FATHER CHRISTMAS LUNCH Thursday 24th December 2015
Call Claire Cole on 01792 634824 or email claire.cole@marriotthotels.com
Book now on 01792 634824 or by emailing claire.cole@marriotthotels.com All packages are subject to availability. Please find full terms and conditions in Christmas Brochure.
facebook.com/swanseamarriott
follow us @swanseamarriott
All the ingredients for a perfect Christmas Swansea Market is your one stop shop this Christmas! You’ll find over 100 stalls offering great value for money and friendly service. Whether you’re looking for the freshest, tastiest ingredients for your festive feast, gifts for all the family or great stocking fillers for the kids, you’ll find it at Swansea Market.
Open7 DAYS everyA WEEK day OPEN
9 November in from December until until Christmas Day Christmas Day!
For great offers, opening times & more information visit: swanseaindoormarket.co.uk swanseaindoormarket
@swanseamrkt 01792 654296
Win a fabulous lunch with Santa at the Marriott Hotel on Christmas Eve! Win a 3 course plated meal followed by a disco and entertainment with a magical puppet show. Family of 4
Win a family ticket see Jack & The Beanstalk at Swansea Grand Theatre! Tickets are for Friday 11th December at 7pm. Please make sure you are able to go before entering the competition!
Competitions Win a Family Ticket for lunch with Santa at the Village Hotel on December 6th 12 noon Bar opens, 12.45pm Sit down & meal served, 4pm Event closes. The price includes:3 course lunch, Children’s entertainer, Gift from Santa for the children Worth £59.80
Win a family ticket to see Beauty & the Beast at the Grand Pavilion, PorthCawl on Saturday 12th December at 5pm. Please make sure you are able to go before entering the competition! Ima
gineTh
eatre &
Win a fabulous family ticket to see Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Princess Royal Theatre this Christmas running from Friday Nov 27th to Sunday 6th December.
grand. pavilio
n.porth
caw
l @Im agine_ The
atre
& @g
randpa
vilion #po
rthc
awlpa
nto
WIN A FAMILY MEAL AT BRAND NEW JIMMY’S Check out the brand new Jimmy’s World Kitchen in Swansea and feast on a choice of over 100 dishes in Swansea’s biggest ever restaurant! Jimmy’s World Kitchen has over 100 incredible dishes from 10 countries AND all soft drinks are FREE! That’s right, Jimmy’s Swansea offers unlimited soft drinks included in the price, including 30 kinds of soft drinks, squashes and slushes. Jimmy’s creates fresh and authentic dishes from Italy, India, Mexico, China, Japan and Thailand – plus a taste of the Deep South of America. Whether you are tempted by overloaded tacos, partial to pizza or craving a beautifully tender curry, Jimmy’s has delicious dishes to satisfy the whole family. Also, Jimmy’s Swansea has live cooking stations where you can create your own dishes and watch as the expert chefs get to work cooking in a theatre of fire and aromas. Seriously cool! Completing the journey is a kid’s (and big kid’s) dream come true – more desserts than a child could imagine. A towering chocolate fountain, over 25 choices of homemade desserts, cakes and sweets completes the ultimate in indulgence and the perfect end to a meal. For those that still want more, there is an ice cream machine, pancakes and waffles! To celebrate the opening, we have teamed up with Jimmy’s to offer one lucky reader the chance to treat their family to a meal out at Jimmy’s Swansea! To be in with a chance of winning, please answer the following question: Finish the quote: “I scream, you scream, we all scream for…? A) Potatoes B) Ice Cream C) Chocolate
Terms and Conditions: *Valid at Jimmy’s Restaurants Swansea venue only. Redemption of this prize cannot be done so in conjunction with any other offer. The monetary value of the prize cannot be exchanged for a cash alternative. Management reserve rights at all times. The prize entitles each of the 5 winners to a free meal for 2 adults and 2 children.
Little Wind St, Swansea, SA1 1ED • swansea@jimmysrestaurants.com
•
Contact Issues
Family• issues Paternitythat Issues require• legal advice? Adoption Issues •
Do you have Parental Re
•
Is your partner looking t
abroad or out of locality? •
Special Guardianship Ap
•
Domestic Violence Issue
Are you a Parent? Grandparent? Step-parent or Guardian? Relative or Friend? Child?
FREE 30 m consultation call 01792 45
arrange your We deal withTo a full range of issues: Care proceedings
Paternity issues
Social services involvement
Parental Responsibility Agreements or Orders
Child Arrangement SWANSEA 2nd Floor,(formerly Langdon known House Orders Langdon Road and Contact as Residence Swansea SA1 8QY Orders) Tel: 01792 450010 Fax: 01792 461881
Special Guardianship MUMBLES 87 Newton Road applications Mumbles
Changing your child’s Swansea SA3 4BN Tel: 01792 369303 name Fax: 01792 447887
Child Abduction
Specific Issue and Prohibited Steps Order (to control actions of MORRISTON PONTA those with Parental 109 Clase Road 21 Holl responsibility) Morriston Pontard
Swansea SA6 8DY Grandparent Tel: 01792 310731rights Fax: 01792 310871
Call us today to arrange your free 30-minute consultation on 01792 310731
We deal with a full range of issues:
Swanse Tel: 017 Fax: 01
Email: info@plandp.co.uk
SWANSEA 2nd Floor, Langdon House Langdon Road Swansea SA1 8QY Tel: 01792 450010 Fax: 01792 461881
MORRISTON 109 Clase Road Morriston Swansea SA6 8DY Tel: 01792 310731 Fax: 01792 310871
Care proceedings
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MUMBLES 87 Newton Road Mumbles Swansea SA3 4BN Tel: 01792 369303 Fax: 01792 447887
Email: info@plandp.co.uk
PONTARDAWE 21 Holly Street Pontardawe Swansea SA8 4ET Tel: 01792 863633 Fax: 01792 863693
YSTRADGYNLAIS 41 Heol Eglwys Ystradgynlais Swansea SA9 1EY Tel: 01639 842709
WWW.PETERLYNNANDPARTNERS.CO.UK
WW
MILLENNIUM STADIUM
Santa Claus Tours • Meet Santa in his grotto
Children £11.50
• Stadium highlights tour
(includes free gift)
MARK JERMIN
• FREE gift
Adults £6
To book & for further details call 029 2082 2228 or visit www.millenniumstadium.com/tours W00195 Santa Tours 154 x 111.indd 1
12/10/2015 10:52