• View current and past issues online at www.aroundllangorselake.co.uk •
THE GRAPEVINE
The local newsletter for Llangorse, Bwlch and surrounding communities Llangorse • Llanfihangel Talyllyn • Talyllyn • Llanywern • Pennorth • Llangasty • Cathedine • Bwlch Christmas 2015
Please send in your articles! To make the next issue of The Grapevine as informative as possible, we need your help!
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Be a journalist! Please send us your articles, news, and what’s on in and around Llangorse & Bwlch. Contact details on page 10. The 2016 publication schedule will be posted to aroundllangorselake.co.uk early next year. Wherever possible your articles will be published in the next issue, however the editors reserve the right to edit articles or hold them back for subsequent issues should there be insufficient space in the current issue.
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Christmas Market Wednesday December 16th 2015 3pm to 6pm Various stalls selling Local Produce, Crafts plus Christmas Foods and Gifts •
Enjoy a glass of mulled wine and mince pies with friends •
Published by Discover Llangorse & Bwlch Christmas 2015
Lots of things for children to enjoy
Discover Llangorse and Bwlch The Discover Llangorse and Bwlch Group was formed using Rural Alliance European funding in partnership with Brecon Beacons National Park Authority. It acts as a catalyst in bringing together the Llangorse & Bwlch communities, to look at how they could promote their distinct sustainable tourism offerings and work towards their recognition as a tourism destination. We have prepared an overall plan and in just over two years have achieved the following outputs: • •
• • • • • •
• • •
Completion of an initial Sustainable Tourism Action Plan & Strategy New Llangorse map and guide “Discover Llangorse & Bwlch” which presents information from both communities as to what a visitor could do, where they could stay - 32,000 copies printed to date. Thirteen staff members from all the tourist information centres were hosted by the committee to familiarise them as to the variety of activities visitors can enjoy in Llangorse & Bwlch. New Llangorse & Bwlch website – www.aroundllangorselake. co.uk developed and expanded on the information within the map and guide. Commissioned the Llangorse and Bwlch signage and rationalisation strategy August 2013, including an initial feasibility study. Outcome has been to install new orientation signage on Llangorse Common and Welsh Venison Centre to assist visitors and direct them to the correct walking routes. Bwlch with Altitude Challenge, an annual walking challenge is being run by two new businesses in Bwlch. Application to Powys County Council and the Welsh Trunk Road agency has been made by a member of the committee to improve road signage to Llangorse & Bwlch. Two Dark Sky events have been organised by committee members both held in January in the Llangorse Youth & Community Centre. A third event will be held on 16th February 2016 at Buckland Hall, Bwlch (see opposite). The Group has taken over the management of the “Grapevine”. A new walking booklet “Awesome Walks Around Llangorse & Bwlch” has been produced - 5000 copies printed. Engaged with European partners on aspects of rural tourism and demonstrated to them the area and progress of the items above.
All of this has been achieved by our volunteers, including individuals and local businesses. Recently we have applied for Arwain LEADER funding and have plans to do much more so in order to do maximise the benefits that we think we can achieve it would be good if even more individuals and businesses could be involved. So if you would like to • let us know how we could help your business, • volunteer to help with events such as organised walks Norman Lowe then get in touch with Norman Lowe on norman@enviro-consulting.com
Discover Llangorse & Bwlch
Are you planning a celebration & need extra accommodation for your guests? Bring a Smile!
DBS Checked
Raven Drama offers one-to-one Drama, English Language and English Literature tuition from KS1 – KS5 (A level). Raven Drama is also pleased to announce that our first Drama LAMDA exams will be running from Llangorse Village Hall from March 2016. www.ravendrama.com lynn.clausen@btinternet.com Tel 07949 329 561
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Do you fancy a get-together with your mates for an outdoors weekend? You can expect a warm and comfortable stay in our self-catering bunkhouse. We have 6 spacious bedrooms sleeping up to 20 people in bunk beds (some doubles) with all bedding provided, cosy lounge with wood burning stove, dining area, fully-equipped kitchen, outside BBQ area, hot showers, books & magazines, board games, off-road parking, etc. • • • •
Standard rate £19pppn for private rooms Exclusive use for larger parties (14+) Dog friendly by arrangement Free wi-fi
We also offer accommodation with guided walks. 10% discount for all Grapevine readers throughout 2016 Discount code GRAPEVINE-STAR-2016 Hope to see you soon! Emma & Pete Harrison, The Star Bunkhouse, Bwlch. Email: info@starbunkhouse.com
The Grapevine - Christmas 2015
Dark Skies Evening Tuesday 16th February, 6pm - 9pm Buckland Hall, Bwlch Planetarium with Martin Griffiths and lectures by Nick Busby
...PLUS Star Gazing (if clear!)
FAMILY FRIENDLY!
Adults: £10 • Children & Senior Citizens: £6
Tickets: www.aroundllangorselake.co.uk ...or from The Welsh Venison Centre, Bwlch - 730 929 Superfast Broadband has arrived in Llangorse and Bwlch Thanks to Superfast Cymru, a partnership between the Welsh Government and BT to deliver high speed fibre broadband to 96% of homes and businesses in Wales, the first cabinets in the Llangorse and Bwlch Telephone Exchange areas are now live. Homes and businesses in Llangorse and some parts of Llanfihangel Tal-y-llyn and Bwlch are now able to order superfast broadband and can check availability and estimated speeds at www.superfast-cymru.com. Work has also started in the surrounding areas of Talyllyn, Pennorth, Llanwern, Trefeinon and Cathedine and is currently planned for completion later in 2016. For more information and to register interest please visit the Superfast Cymru website at www.superfast-cymru.com.
Lee Pullen
Llangorse Spring Village Show
Harvest Weekend - Thanks!
Rehearsals for the Llangorse Spring Village Show will start in the New Year 2016 – so far we have a dozen willing volunteers over the age of 16 – we could do with a few more! Please get in touch if you are interested in on or off-stage roles. All help welcome and no previous experience necessary! All for a good cause, raising money for the Llangorse Village Hall… We need you!
Thank you to all who helped to make the weekend most enjoyable - and there were a large number.
Tel: 07949 329 561 Email: lynn.clausen@btinternet.com
To those who came and supported - thank you for your company. I’m sure this area has never seen so many apple cakes at one time. Certainly, some of us have eaten enough to last the year through!
Lynn Clausen
Susan Jevons
Want to LEARN WELSH? Eisiau DYSGU CYMRAEG? A New Welsh for Beginners group has started on Thursday mornings, meeting in Pennorth, 9.15 am - 11.15 am. Anyone interested please phone 01874 658 298. www.aroundllangorselake.co.uk
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Public Access Defibrillator Scheme – Llangors Community Project Llangors Community Council organised a Public Meeting on Monday 19th October at Llanfihangel Talyllyn & Llanywern Community Hall to discuss installation of defibrillators in the Llangors Community Council area. Carl Powell of the Welsh Ambulance Service Trust gave an excellent presentation covering all aspects of defibrillators, their use following cardiac arrest and the Public Access Defibrillator scheme. During the meeting it was concluded that the best route to progress defibrillators into the Llangors Community was for each group or organisation interested in acquiring a defibrillator to directly acquire Zoll AED units from British Heart Foundation for a donation to the Charity of £400. Llangors Community Council will provide the external heated unlocked boxes to hold the defibrillators and the installation of an electricity supply to the boxes. Llangorse Youth and Community Centre, Llanfihangel Talyllyn & Llanywern Community Hall, Llangasty Village Hall and Pennorth Chapel have all indicated that they want to be involved with the project. There will be fundraising events to raise the £400 for each unit and we encourage local residents to show their support to ensure the project succeeds. When the defibrillators are received there will be local training overviews. There has been interest and support from residents with experience of the units and the Community Council would welcome anyone interested in assisting with the roll-out of the project to contact us - clerk@llangors.org.uk
Colin Preece, Chair Llangors Community Council
Kirsty Williams, Welsh Liberal Democrat AM for Brecon & Radnorshire I just wanted to write a quick note to make sure everyone was aware of the recent good news on schooling in the Grapevines’ patch. I recently received a letter from the Welsh Government with the news that the Outline Business Case for 5 primary schools in the Gwernyfed catchment were recommended for approval. This means Hay, Llyswen, Talgarth/Bronllys, Clyro and Llangorse have all been earmarked for significant building upgrades or brand new schools. This is fantastic news! As you will all know, good local schools are absolutely crucial to an area. When the Education minister visited Hay Primary School with me in September he saw first-hand the superb teaching at the school, but he also saw the school buildings that are old and in desperate need of replacement. Powys County Council now need to get on and develop the Full Business Case as a matter of urgency, so that that these pupils can finally be taught in buildings that are fit for purpose. I will continue to fight for this area. If there is a particular issue you think I should be working on, do not hesitate to email me at Kirsty.williams@assembly.wales or call my office on 01874 625 739. I would also like to wish all Grapevine readers and their families a Merry Christmas and a very happy new year.
Kirsty Williams AM
Update from Llanfihangel Ladies On the last Saturday in September one of our group, Margaret Williams, once again opened her home for the annual MacMillan Coffee event. This year Margaret raised the fantastic sum of £720 and she would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their continued support. She is very grateful to all for their attendance, contributions, donations of cakes, raffle and Chinese auction prizes. She looks forward to seeing you all again next year! We also held a very successful Halloween Disco on Friday 30th October at our Village Hall. This was open to all the community and prizes were awarded for the best Halloween costume and the best carved pumpkin. This was a very well attended event with hot dogs, burgers and drinks available. Many thanks to Neil for his amazing disco. The Black Cock Inn recently hosted a charity auction on Friday 13th November. It was in aid of the Ann Conroy Trust which is a Trust supporting people with Chiari Syringomyelia. This condition affects the brain and spinal fluid. We chose this charity because it is close to one of our members (Brenda Arnold) whose daughter Jenette suffers from this condition. Jenette underwent major brain surgery earlier this summer which alleviated her symptoms a little but there is no cure. The auction, to date, raised £1596 with donations still coming in. A big thank you from Jenette and Lynn Burton (Chairman of the Trust), to all who donated, attended and purchased items. A special thank you to the Black Cock Inn for hosting this event and to our auctioneer for his sterling work.
Christmas Events: • • • • •
13th December: 6.30 p.m. there will be carols, mulled wine and mince pies at the Black Cock Inn. This will coincide with lighting the Christmas tree. Please join us if you can. 18th December: a children’s Christmas Disco, open to all the community, will be held at our Village Hall between 6 p.m. & 9 p.m. There will be an entrance fee of £2.00 per child and crisps and drinks will be available. 21st December: Christmas Quiz at the Black Cock Inn starting at 8.30 p.m. with spot prizes and a prize for the team with the highest score. All welcome 26th December: “live artist” at the Black Cock Inn between 5.30 p.m. & 7.30 p.m. 31st December: New Year’s Eve Disco & Buffet at the Black Cock Inn – 9 p.m. start.
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Angela Boxhall
The Grapevine - Christmas 2015
Want to walk off the excesses of Christmas??? Then join us on the traditional Boxing Day walk from Bwlch to Llangorse over the mountain. Starts at Bwlch Village Hall at 10.30am Please come suitably attired. All welcome! Do you want to keep Llanfihangel Talyllyn village hall open? The Llanfihangel Talyllyn, Talyllyn and Llanwern Community Hall is facing a threat to its future if it can’t find volunteers to take on the reins of leading the Hall Committee. At its Annual General Meeting on the 9th November no nominations were received for the posts of Chair and Vice-Chair when the previous post-holders had to stand down due to other commitments. An Extraordinary General Meeting has been called for 8pm on Monday 8th February to see if any fresh nominations will come forward. The meeting was able to re-elect Alan Williams as Treasurer and Esther Davies as Secretary and the Hall enjoys a sound physical structure with a healthy bank balance. However, without these appointments, control of the Hall falls to the Guardian Trustees. Because of the sound position the Trustees will be able to keep the Hall open as a venue for regular classes, practises and party bookings. The income from bookings covers only half of the running costs of the Hall and over time the bank balance can expect to shrink until closure is inevitable. The sustainability of the Hall has always been dependent on generating income from the programme of events throughout the year, but the Spring Fayre, Fete and Harvest Supper would not be organised in the future without a Committee. The Guardian Trustees therefore invite the community to attend the EGM and see if we can’t find a way of harnessing the enthusiasm that undoubtedly exists for Hall events. On page 8 is a copy of this year’s Chair’s report as a reminder of what we might be missing.
Llanfihangel Talyllyn, Talyllyn and Llanwern Hall Committee
Thumbs up for Bwlch from Derek the Weather! By the time you receive this newsletter, Derek ‘the Weather’ Brockway may not be on our TV screens... Instead he’ll be trekking across Patagonia! In November he is joining a 50 strong group (including the comedian Rhod Gilbert, 2/3 of the rock band ‘Manic Street Preachers’ and lucky Joyce Gervis from Ty Mawr Lime Ltd., Llangorse) across the Atlantic to celebrate 150 years of the Welsh settlement, with all raising thousands for Velindre Cancer Centre. As part of Derek’s pre-expedition preparation, in October he joined a large handful of his fellow trekkers for a practice weekend in the Black Mountains. The programme, designed and delivered by Emma & Pete (new owners of The Star Bunkhouse, Bwlch and both experienced trekkers/Mountain Leaders), included rucksack fitting, kit & packing, use of walking poles, movement on different types of terrain, plus lots more useful trekking tips and advice – never underestimate the problems that could be caused by wearing the wrong pants! The group also had 2 practice treks with full packs – one long, starting in a remote location north of Llanbedr, across the mountain tops back to Cwmdu, and the other a shorter stretch around Cefn Moel and Mynydd Llangorse.
Group photo outside The Star Bunkhouse
The Star Bunkhouse would like to thank the following for their help in making this weekend unforgettable: • • • •
Terry Robst (a regular at Crickhowell Walking Festival) for Mountain Leader support A2B Taxis & Minibuses, Llangorse for help with logistics Mynydd Ddu Tea Rooms, Cwmdu for their excellent cakes The New Inn & Beacons Backpackers, Bwlch for the perfect post-trek supper: according to Derek, “Sarah’s venison stew is lush!”
www.aroundllangorselake.co.uk
Left-Right: Pete & Emma (The Star Bunkhouse), Derek, Neil, Sarah & Helen (The New Inn & Beacons Backpackers)
Emma Harrison The Star Bunkhouse Page 5
Llangors Youth & Community Centre Bookings: Alison Wilmott Tel - 01874 658 645
Regular Events: Post Office Services Mondays 10 am - 12 noon Thursdays 9.30 am - 11.30 am Coffee, Tea & Biscuits Monday & Thursdays All Welcome! from 10 am in the Hall Cub Scouts Mondays 6 pm - 7.30 pm Maureen Lowe - 658 453 Llyn Safaddan Art Group Mondays 7.30 pm - 9.30 pm Myra Morris - 611 868 Monthly Luncheon Club 4th Monday - 12 noon Anne Evans - 658 319 Welsh Class Tuesday mornings from 9.15 am Susan Jevons - 658 298 Dog Training Tuesday evenings Tracy - 07833 439446 Badminton Wednesday Under 11 - 6.30 - 7.30 pm Dave Hope - 658 106 Over 11 - 7.30 - 8.30 pm Mike Scruby - 658 410 Junior Drama Group Thursdays 5 pm - 6.30 pm Lynn Clausen 07949 329561 Parkinson’s Keep Fit Programme Saturdays 10 am - 11 am Val Morgans Judo Classes Saturdays Juniors - 11.30 am - 12.30 pm Seniors - 12.30 - 1.30 pm Phil - 07854279957
www.llangorshall.co.uk
Llan Choir The Llan Choir are now meeting for their 2015/16 season. Based in Llanfihangel Talyllyn the choir have been singing together for two years and meet every Wednesday at the Black Cock Inn. Choir leader Mrs Margaret Jones says “We are a friendly choir who meet once a week for singing and a social gathering. Following rehearsals we enjoy a cup of tea/coffee with biscuits and sometimes cake. We are always looking for new members and will welcome anyone who would like to join us”. If you feel that you may be interested contact Margaret on 01874 658 477.
Dave & Margaret Jones
St Michael & All Angels, Llanfihangel-Talyllyn Without fund raising, our Church building would cease to be available to the community. One of the methods we use is the “100 Club” and we are looking to find additional members. It costs £20 per year and for this your number is entered into 2 draws, made publicly in the Black Cock, in May and November. Half the money is retained by the Church and the other half given in prizes of £200 (first), £100 (second) and 4 X £50 at each draw. If you would like to join this club and, at the same time help to maintain our Church, please contact Robin Rennison on 01874 658681.
Windsor Griffiths
Llangasty Parish Hall - news Autumn got off to a cracking start with a packed hall for the Harvest Supper. A superb spread was followed by the relaxing music of Uskelele and a great evening was enjoyed by all. Our next event will be the Festive Walk up the Allt on Monday, 28th December, starting from the hall at 10.30, fingers Introducing the entertainment crossed for good weather this year. The at Llangasty harvest supper walk will be in aid of the purchase of a defibrillator for the Llangasty and Pennorth area, to be sited either at the hall or Pennorth Chapel. Although it is hoped that the machine would never have to be used, they do save lives and are very simple to use. After the walk there will be mince pies, mulled wine and other refreshments, and we will also hold a raffle to help raise funds for the defibrillator. We are very pleased to report that the hall is increasingly being used for family and group functions. The hall can seat 60 around tables and up to 90 if chairs only are used. Users of the hall choose it because of the beautiful location, the period features and open fireplace which give it a unique, traditional atmosphere. To cap it all, our hiring charges are very reasonable as well. If you are looking for a venue to hold a special occasion in 2016, why not give Ann Reese a call on 658726 to find out more; we can arrange a tour around the hall to find out if it suits your event. We have a very active committee and are pleased to welcome two new members, Arwyn Evans and Mark James both from Pennorth. We would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank-you to Paul Needham who is stepping down after 10 years on the committee, with the last 5 years as Treasurer. Paul will be handing over the reins as Treasurer to Arwyn Evans. Our maintenance fund is looking strong and we are well placed for on-going improvements to the hall.
Roger Reese
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The Grapevine - Christmas 2015
Church Services for Christmas
Llangors Youth & Community Centre
The Parish of Llyn Safaddan Sunday 20th December 3-00pm Carol Service at Bwlch 5-30pm Christingle & Carols at Llanfihangel Talyllyn Wednesday 23rd December 7-00pm Carol Service at Llangors
Christmas Eve Thursday 24th December 9-00pm Holy Communion at Llangasty 11-30pm Midnight Communion at Llangors
Christmas Day Friday 25th December 9-00am Holy Communion at Bwlch 10-30am Family Service Llanwern Sunday 27th December 11.00am Holy Communion at Llanywern A warm welcome to all.
Revd Kelvin Richards (Priest in Charge)
Solar Panels at Llangors Youth & Community Centre One of the assets of Llangors Community Centre is the large south facing roof at an optimum angle for solar power. For new installations the government aim to reduce the amount generated for solar power (the feed in Tariff) from above 11p per unit to less than 2p from 1st January 2016. With these factors in mind the Hall Committee have decided to install 30 solar panels with a maximum output of 7.5kw during this November. This project will considerably stretch the finances of the Centre and anyone wishing to make a donation (in the form of a gift or a loan) to this project is welcome to contact the chair of the Hall Committee, Melrose East. Any donation would be very much appreciated. Contact details for Melrose East are:Telephone 01874 658335 (H) or 07791 550888 (M). Email: melrosemeast@gmail.com Address: Twydu, Llangorse, Brecon, LD3 7UA
Mike Featherstone
will take place on December 13th at 10.30am and will be supported by “The Llan Choir” followed by festive refreshments. A warm welcome to everyone!
Monthly Coffee Mornings - Llangors Hall Coinciding with the Post office in the village hall on Monday and Thursday mornings there is also an opportunity for tea, coffee and company. Once a month, on the second Monday, the funds raised will go to an organisation which local people use or support. There are notice boards in St. Paulinus’ Church with information about the month’s organisation - so do go and have a look. The Church is always open. The boards will reappear at the coffee morning. People from congregations around the lake will take responsibility for these monthly coffee mornings but would welcome anyone’s help and ideas. (Contacts: Julie Pugh Crickie Farm; Susan Jevons - Llangors Vicarage) The next coffee mornings are 10.00am to 12noon on: • December 14th - Christmas flowers for residents in Brookside Care Home • January 12th - Hay, Brecon and Talgarth Sanctuary for Refugees • February 9th - L’Arche, Brecon • March 8th - Alzheimer’s Research and Care • April 12th - Brecon Mountain Rescue • May 10th - Brecknock Wildlife Trust: Llangors Area Amounts raised are displayed on the community and church notice boards. For those who missed this, the following amounts have been raised: • July - Usk House Hospice Day Care - £143 • August - Dial a Ride - £101 • September - Midwives Working in Partnership, Ethiopia - £195 • October - Tree Aid - £147 • November - Ambiwlans Awyr Cymru / Wales Air Ambulance - £172
www.aroundllangorselake.co.uk
www.llangorshall.co.uk
Llanfihangel Talyllyn & Llanywern Hall Bookings: Dave Jones - 658 477 Sheena Walker-Roberts Tel - 01874 711 584
Regular Events: Pilates Using weighted soft balls.
Pennorth Chapel Carol Service
Thank you to all who supported in any way.
Llangors hall is available to book hourly for table tennis, badminton and short tennis. Hall facilities include a meeting room and main hall. Screens, copier, kitchen, stage, lighting, piano, tables and chairs. Suitable for Wedding receptions. Bookings: 01874 658 645
Tuesdays 6 pm – 7 pm Pilates Thursdays 7.15pm-8.15pm S. Walker-Roberts - 711 584 Facebook - “Pilates for U”
Llangasty Hall Bookings: Ann Reese - 658 726
Regular Events: Pilates Tuesdays - 10.30 - 11.30am Thursdays - 10 am - 11 am S. Walker-Roberts - 711 584 Women’s Institute 1st Wednesday - 7 pm
Hire of hall for family and social events, receptions and meetings charged at £7 an hour with reduced rates for local and extended use. llangastyvillagehall.co.uk
Susan Jevons Page 7
Pennorth Chapel Pennorth with Llanfilo URC, part of the Brecon Beacons Group Pastorate Minister Rev Michael Hodgson Services every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month at 10.30am (11.30am from Jan 2016) - families welcome
Loop system fitted Small comfortable meeting room (up to 20 people) Food preparation area & disabled facilities Available for Hire
Roger Young - 658 205
Bwlch Village Hall Bookings: Marion Heaffey Tel - 07541 236 243
Regular Events: Bwlch & Cathedine Women’s Institute 1st Monday - 7pm Choir Mondays (except WI night) 7pm Garden Club 1st Tuesday - 7.30 pm Bwlch Bumps & Babies Fridays 10 am - 11.45 am
Llanfihangel Talyllyn, Talyllyn and Llanwern Community Hall Chairs report: 2015 A community like ours is, by its nature diverse, whether you have always been here or come here by choice, you are part of community which spans age, income and lifestyle. However, though the links between us may begin with an accident of geography, our community continues to show that difference doesn’t stop us being something more than disparate parts. In my work I see the research that shows just how dependent our individual health and wellbeing is on feeling part of a wider group in which you know and trust those around you. I believe that the Hall plays an important part in that feeling for many of us. 2015 has been another year in which we have successfully maintained the Hall and brought the Community together. We have done this by providing both, a local venue for people to pursue their interests and opportunities to enjoy the company of our neighbours. We have also made the Hall sustainable by raising the money it takes to keep the it going. I thank everyone who has played a part in that. The Hall year started with a disco. After several very successful examples, this year’s was less well attended. We constantly need to review and reinvent what the Hall does to make sure we have the right range of events and this is part of the calendar we need to reflect on. However, for those of us who were there, tired feet attested to the dancing, which went on long into the night. Thanks to the efforts of all involved, most notably Neil as DJ, a net contribution to the coffers was still made. The Murder Mystery evening was a really enjoyable addition to our calendar this year. Thanks to my fellow players, Barbara, Becky, Sheena, Miv and Mike, and Tina for her stage direction, the audience enjoyed an intriguing whodunit which kept everyone guessing. Thanks to those who did the catering, the audience sleuthed on a full belly and with the drinks to match. Everyone who I spoke to, seemed to have enjoyed the evening immensely. Staged performances like this take a lot of preparation but it paid off in the hubbub in the room as everyone debated motive and means. I hope events of this type will play a part in future year’s programmes. The Spring Fayre, never ceases to amaze me. This year we added a tea room feel with tables and bunting outside in the sun and people were able to enjoy coffee and cake between perusing the stalls. Lots of people contributed to the Fayre and yet again we raised a significant amount for the Hall in a remarkably short time. However, I do want to mention a couple of individuals as examples of the effort lots made. Thanks to Penny for the scones, the cream teas were delicious, and thanks to Ellie for her sterling work with the plant stall. This year’s Fete was blessed with good weather after an uncertain forecast. The result was large numbers on the Glebe field and a fun day with a strong family feel. We seem to have found a winning formula with the Fete, as several visitors attested. The success of the Fete is dependent on the effort of stallholders and those who help set up and take down the field. Again the numbers are too large to cover everyone, but I will mention a couple of examples of the contribution made. Thanks to Brenda and the ladies in the tea tent, once again a resounding success. Thanks to John and Jamie and the rest of the set up crew, without whom the Fete would have taken place in an empty field. The Harvest Supper once again proved that there is considerable culinary talent in the village. A number of people contributed, not just in the preparation, but also in providing the ingredients to put on a feast of sweet and savoury dishes. Eating together has a long human history of creating community and the celebration of the harvest feels like an important connection in the present as well as to our past. Lots of people prepared dishes but I do want to thank Gill, in particular, for preparing the soup and Alan for, yet again, making sure we had something to wash it down with.
Pregnant mums & children aged 0-4 yrs welcome. Tea, coffee & juice served.
The Hall is not only about the calendar of events but it also provides, and relies on, the regular and one-off bookings of the Hall as a venue for parties, pilates and practise. This is an important part of the Hall’s offer to the community. My thanks go to Dave and Sheena who handled the bookings.
Hatha Yoga Class Suitable for all levels - £6 Wednesdays 6.30 pm - 8 pm Heather - 07811 628247
I couldn’t complete this report without noting that this year saw the sad passing of John Brute. John did a huge amount for the Hall and the community over the years and we were all shocked and saddened by his loss too soon. John’s importance to us all, and the respect in which he was held, was demonstrated in the numbers who attended his funeral and the support for the permanent memorial to him outside the Black Cock. Thank you John.
Hire Charges: Group Booking Villagers £15, Others £30 Morning/Afternoon Session Villagers £15, Others £30 Evening Session Villagers £25, Others £35 All Day Villagers £45, Others £65 Trestle Tables £5 each
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The Pub and the Llanfihangel Ladies, alongside the Hall, are important pillars of the Community and I am heartened by the support that occurs between each of these institutions. It has been a pleasure to host Llanfihangel Ladies events and as ever the Hall Committee is grateful to Denise and family for their unstinting support of the Hall. Long may these positive relationships continue. This is my last year as Hall Chair, I have been part of the Committee as Treasurer and Chair for a number of years now and feel the need to step down as my life seems to get ever busier. The time is also right for someone else to take the reins and give the Hall Committee the direction and drive it needs to keep renewing itself. I am very grateful to everyone who has been a support to me over the years. Even if you haven’t been named you know who you are and I hope you understand my gratitude. I do, however, want to formally recognise my thanks to my fellow officers on the Committee. Tina as Vice-Chair has helped me keep my sanity whilst the inevitable doubts have plagued me, Alan for his calm assurance that everything is under control and that the sums have been done and Esther whose organisational skills have papered over the cracks of my own incompetence. Thank you to all of you and my best wishes to whoever takes up the role. Paul Webb, Chair 2015
The Grapevine - Christmas 2015
Llyn Syfaddan History Group In October we held our AGM which was followed by a History Quiz and a lovely buffet prepared by Pat Hope. We also held a raffle with a first prize of a meal for 2 kindly donated by the Black Cock. The accounts were presented by Roger Young and a summary of our first full year was given by Roger Reese. There is no doubt that we have achieved much during this year including: • • • • • •
The purchase of 2 Talyllyn Railway Station finger post signs Four well attended history talks A surveying day at the site of the old engine shed Affiliation to the British Association of Local Historians Membership of the consultation panel involved in the planning of the Brecknock Museum improvements Membership of the Brecknock History Forum
We also ran two events as part of the Brecknock History Open week. The first was a guided walk around Llangasty and the second was an open day at the old railway station in Talyllyn. Both were well supported.
Some of the artefacts discovered during the engine shed survey
Our programme of talks for the coming year has been planned, commencing on 14th January at Llangorse Community Hall. The speaker is David Mitchell and his topic is the Marquis of Bute. To celebrate the 200th anniversary of the opening of the Talyllyn Tunnel, we are planning a tunnel walk some time during May which will be open to group members only. The next phase of the railway project is due to start shortly. This aims to digitise our material in preparation for incorporating it into a suitable website. Looking forward, we are keen to see other aspects of our local heritage researched, collected and made available to a wide audience. We welcome any ideas for research topics and offers of help for getting new themes off the ground. Please get in touch if you would like to be involved or have any ideas for future activities. Surveying at the site of the engine shed Talyllyn Junction
In addition to our focus on history themes, we also enjoy opportunities to get together for a chat, drinks and nibbles. We will be organising a social evening for members in February at the Black Cock, details will be circulated in the New Year. Just a reminder that 2016 membership is due in January at £5 for a single membership and £7 for family membership. Please contact Roger Young on 658 205.
Roger Reese
Llangorse Big Swim and Triathlon Weekend More than 300 swimmers and triathletes from across the UK were in Llangorse in September for the second annual Big Swim and Triathlon Weekend. Once again the weekend was blessed with beautiful weather although the mist on the lake made for a delayed but atmospheric start to Sunday morning! The weekend is only possible thanks to the on-going generosity and help of the Blackham family, the Davies family, Llangorse Sailing Club and the lake users group, the community council plus the local residents and business-owners. This year it was fantastic to see so many local people taking part including a number of former pupils from Llangorse Primary School! Next year’s events will be taking place on September 10th and 11th 2016 and once again we will be helping to raise funds for Llangorse Sailing Club. We were pleased to be able to make donations to Llangorse Judo Club and Brecon Canoe Club this year as a thank you for their help with marshalling during the weekend. If any local clubs or fundraisers would be interested in helping out at next year’s events please get in touch with Nicola at llangorsetri@hotmail.co.uk No experience is necessary. In particular we are looking for people who would be able to spare 3 hours on Sunday morning to marshal the run section in Llangasty and Bwlch. Thanks to local photographer Jon Phillips from Muen Photography for the wonderful images - www.muen.co.uk
Nicola Goodwin www.aroundllangorselake.co.uk
Page 9
In the Walled Garden
Evergreen groundcover plants are of great value, suppressing weeds in summer by covering the bare soil and by providing interest once deciduous trees and shrubs have lost their leaves and herbaceous perennials have died back for the winter. Although there is briefly something very satisfying about freshly raked and mulched weed free soil, there is also a depressing emptiness to a bare winter bed. As well as the usual pulmonaris, heucheras and hellebores, good evergreen plants for shade or partial shade include the strappy grass like leaves of Liriope muscari with autumn purple flower spikes and Viola sororia “Dark Freckles” with edible pale white violet freckled flowers in late spring. For partial shade and sun there is Persicaria “Darjeeling Red” with leaves that turn red in autumn and late summer flower spikes that start white and mature to dark red , and also the black grass Ophiopogon planiscapus “Nigrescens” with tiny purple flowers in spring. For full sun the double flowered chamomile will
Please email articles to: grapevine@ aroundllangorselake.co.uk The 2016 publication schedule will be posted to aroundllangorselake.co.uk early next year.
form an apple scented mat with edible flowers all summer.
Standard soft fruit trees, where the fruiting stems are grown from the top of a single stem about 3ft above the The winter vegetable patch can ground, are a really striking, efficient be full of productive colour and use of space. The trees are simple structure by planting tall deep to keep pruned to shape and the maroon Kale“Redbor”, dark purple fruit is easy to crop. Gooseberries, green Cavolo Nero and Chard redcurrants and blackcurrants can “Bright Lights” with orange red all be grown in this way and can and yellow stems. Sorrel, spinach, be planted at any time but are best parsley, celery leaf, coriander, wild planted in late autumn or winter. rocket and lamb’s lettuce can be cropped all winter. A great perennial A standard gooseberry would be a lovely present to celebrate the cut and come again winter salad arrival of a new baby… leaf crop is land cress which is more peppery and subtle than A gardener’s bookshelf needs watercress. some books that are just a simple pleasure to pick up and read in Winter seed heads add dramatic front of the fire when it is cold and effect when the light is low, dark outside. The Morville Hours especially after a frost or when by Katherine Swift is a wonderful covered in spiders’ webs, and will meander through the general day to also attract birds. Tall egg shaped teazel, spiky sputnik style liquorice, day life in a garden world and full of interesting detail. flat plates of yarrow, and the distinctive Turkish sage seed heads threaded on a dark stem will all last through winter until time to cut them down and make way for new growth in February.
P L A N T N U R S E RY
Llangynidr Pre-School and Toddlers
Run from Llangynidr Village Hall Term Time Only. Funded 3 yr old places offered. Monday (9 am - 1 pm) 3 - 4 yr old session Tuesday (9 am – 1 pm) 2 - 4 yr old session Wednesday (9 am – 1 pm) 3 - 4 yr old session Friday (9 am - 12 pm) 2 – 4 yr old session Contact Deborah Hansford for more details on 01874 731 022
Business advertising: Do you operate a business within our distribution area? Colour pages are adverts and have been paid for by their submitters. The Grapevine is distributed to over 700 households & community points in and around Llangorse & Bwlch.
Post Office Services
at Llangors Youth & Community Centre (Llangors Village Hall)
Mondays 10 to 12 and Thursdays 9-30 to 11-30
Tea, Coffee and Biscuits are also available on Mondays and Thursdays
Llangors Community Council - contacts Llangors Ward
Llanfihangel Ward
Connect with your local community!
Colin Preece (Chairman) - 658 691
David Jones (Vice Chair) - 658 477
Robert East - 658 335
Mike Scruby 658 410
For details & rates email:
Tony Evans - 658 319
David James 658 457
grapevine@ aroundllangorselake.co.uk
Rev. Alan Jevons - 658 298
Emma Symonds 658 129
Dyddanwy Pugh - 658 177
Richard Doylend 658 692
Clerk – Judith Phillips 658 869 (clerk@llangors.org.uk), Auditor – Jim Price 658 616
Page 10
The Grapevine - Christmas 2015
PL ANTS
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HEDGING
HERBS GARDEN PLANS
HARDY PLANTS GROWN IN WALES OPEN DAILY 10am - 4pm LLANGASTY, BRECON, LD3 7PX • 01874 730 169 www.walledgardentreberfydd.com
Kirsty Williams AM
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Brecon and Radnorshire I am always happy to hear your views and help with any issues you may have. Please get in touch if you think I can be of assistance. 01874 730030 • 07973 984 461 steve@greenergraphics.co.uk www.greenergraphics.co.uk Have a look at the website for design, signage and exhibition services.
www.aroundllangorselake.co.uk
Write: 4 Watergate, Brecon, LD3 9AN Telephone: 01874 625 739 Email: kirsty.williams@assembly.wales Web: www.kirstywilliams.org.uk Page 11
ACTION PACKED ADVENTURES
CHRISTMAS GIFT VOUCHERS
Give the gift of adventure this Christmas! We have a range of Gift Vouchers available for all our activities. Vouchers can be purchased with us in person, over the phone or online just visit www.activityuk.com/gifts
Llangorse Multi Activity Centre
01874 658 272
www.activityuk.com
WALES ON
HORSEBACK IN THE BRECON BEACONS
Llangorse Riding Centre The Gilfach, Llangorse, LD3 7UH Our riding centre is open all year. •
We have a Christmas Pony Camp on Tues 29th December. 9.30am to 12.30pm for 4 yrs & over (£30) or 9.30am to 3.30pm for 7 yrs & over (£49). Booking essential. • Christmas Riding Gift Vouchers are available to buy. Visit www.activityuk.com or call 01874 658 272 for details
CHRISTMAS GIFT
VOUCHERS Page 12
Vouchers can be purchased with us in person, over the phone or online - just visit www.activityuk.com/gifts
WHOLE TURKEY TURKEY BREAST GOOSE LARGE CHICKEN DUCKS, PARTRIDGE, PHEASANT VENISON, BEEF, LAMB, PORK, HAM, SAUSAGES SAUSAGE MEAT – VENISON & PORK CHEESES, CHOCOLATES, CHUTNEYS, WINES, CIDERS AND MORE CHRISTMAS TREES SEASONAL VEG GIFTS
gifts cheese
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treats
SEASONAL
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T: 01874 730929 WWW.beaconsfarmshop.CO.UK
The Grapevine - Christmas 2015