Local Beacon issue 52 / December 2013

The community magazine for Brecon and surrounding villages

December 2013 • Issue 52

PICK ME UP – I’M FREE

Call us today on 01874 665-738 or visit www.brecongas.co.uk To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk

Welcome

The community magazine encouraging local residents to use what’s on their doorstep

...To the December issue, the last one of 2013!

For the town of Brecon

At the time of going to press we have been informed of snow! Whilst this creates a great feeling in the build up to Christmas Day, it can also cause problems.

Here’s hoping to enough snow for a few days sledging but not too much that causes towns to come to a standstill. After all we need to get the most important shopping trips of the year completed. We have some wonderful pages of inspiration for you in this issue, starting on page 7. Please shop local where you can.

Goosepool Cottage, Winforton, Herefordshire HR3 6EB T: 01544 327716 M: 07971 446632 E: lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk

December Competition

On page 3 you will see we are looking for someone to join our team. If you feel you would be perfect for this role, please do get in touch. It could suit someone who already runs their own business and is looking to top up their hours; or perhaps you are a local parent looking to get back into work but needs to get the right balance between childcare and work. Being a mum myself, Cariad is my priority but work needs to come a close second – the right balance is crucial for happy family life. Please get in touch ...

For the chance to win a £10 Christmas Hamper from Honddu Wholefoods, please complete the wordsearch on page 25 and send to us by 16th December 2013.

The winner will be picked at random.

Winner of last month’s competition: R Palmer, Brecon.

We also have some other changes due next year – please turn to page 21 for more details.

In this issue there is a focus on gluten free products.

More and more people are becoming gluten intolerant, our team member Veronica being one of them. From reading the various articles you will see Brecon really does provide options – these products can be enjoyed by all the family.

Throughout December there will be lots of local events.

Many building you up in the festive cheer department!

Have a good read through this issue and mark any dates down in your diary or on the calendar – that way you won’t miss out.

Local Beacon cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in advertisements nor for any consequences arising from this. Local Beacon cannot be held responsible for damage or loss of copy or error in printing. All artwork used in Local Beacon must not be published in any other media without permission from Local Beacon. Opinions expressed by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher. Other publications must not canvas advertisers from Local Beacon.

We at the Local Beacon and Wye Local wish our readers, advertisers and contributors a very Merry Christmas and a fab start to the New Year.

See you in 2014.

Lisa Marie Badham x

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - -

Mike Luxton Electrician

REFLEXOLOGY Traditional Hand & Foot Reflexology Maternity Reflexology • Reproflexology – pre-conceptual care programme Hot Stone Reflexology • Facial Reflexology Light Touch Baby Reflexology Classes starting on Wednesday, 6th November or lessons on a 1 to 1 basis by arrangement.

PAT Testing Installation & Repairs Part P Registered Elecsa Registered No electrical job too small

FOOD SENSITIVITY & ENVIRONMENTAL ALLERGY THERAPY Gift vouchers available for Christmas.

3 The Paddocks, Newgate Street, Llanfaes, Brecon LD3 8DJ Tel: 01874 611794 Mob: 07802 711670 Email: mikeluxton1@tiscali.co.uk

Helen Sheppard

M.A.R., B.I.A.E.T., B.C.M.A. Reg.

Telephone 01874 665 461 Mobile 07976 546 051

JW’S

Computer repairs New Computers and Laptops.

MINI SKIPS & PLANT HIRE

All computer supplies and parts

Micro & Mini Diggers Dumpers • Rollers Wacker Plates Generators Repairs Van Hire • Chippers Cherry Pickers • Water Pumps Stump Grinders

13 Ship Street Brecon 01874 611877 www.cuprum.co.uk

T: 01497 847355 M: 07785 735126 To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - -

JOB TITLE:

FREELANCE SALES EXECUTIVE

Glanusk services Sennybridge

MAIN PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE JOB:

Contact local businesses to offer them advertising space in future issues of the publication. Also liaise with the community to keep articles interesting and informative.

Visit our welcoming café which serves: all day breakfasts, home made main meals, puddings, cakes, & freshly ground coffee

HOURS / TIMETABLE:

20-30 hours (approx) per month Flexible hours during the second and third week of each month

DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Advert bookings • Contact existing advertisers and offer advertising space.

• Research potential new advertisers. Make contact.

Provide information about the Local Beacon. Advise advertising options.

• Book in adverts.

Editorial content • Create and continue links with community groups and local services.

Chasing copy • Contact customers for outstanding copy • Support and liaise with the design team

Always check our specials board

Situated on the main A40 between Brecon & Llandovery Open 7 days a week/take-away available Free Wi-Fi connection Also on site: lOndis shOp with not-to-be-missed monthly promotions newspapers • dvd club • Off licence Jet Wash • lottery • Oil 4 Wales Fuel paypoint • Welsh Gifts • Military supplies equestrian • range

PERSON SPECIFICATION:

SKILLS AND ABILITIES Be clear, concise and organised Communicate well with potential advertisers and the Local Beacon & Wye Local team EXPERIENCE No experience needed in Sales as we have a very relaxed approach But very much people and community focused KNOWLEDGE Ideally would have a good knowledge of the local area and be involved in the community Basic knowledge of computers No training or qualifications needed PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS Have a fun personality Be able to work flexible hours during the second and third week of the month Fit well within our existing team Have a commitment and passion to our community publication – Believe in what we do

HEATING Oil & Red Diesel on the Pump DELIVERIES AVAILABLE Minimum order 100 litres key Fuel and Fast Fuel cards accepted.

NEED A TOP UP OR EMERGENCY DELIVERY We deliver in our 4 x 4 where lorries have difficulty

NOTES:

Position may suit: an at home parent wanting to come back to work; someone with an existing business, wanting extra income; or someone who has other job commitments but has scope for other work.

Please send your CV or any questions about this position to lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk by Tuesday 31st December 2013.

PLEASE RING

Tel: 01874 636267 Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - -

The Woodland

Davies Partnership LLP

SOLICITORS - CYFREITHWYR

Legal Services

For all your private and commercial needs

WD

Company Matters Debt Recovery Employment Advice Estate Management Farming and Agricultural Matters Home Moving Leases/Conveyancing Legal Disputes Matrimonial Matters Probate Wills

Please note that we do not carry out any criminal work Telephone our offices to make an appointment

Hay-on-Wye 01497 820406 Brecon 01874 624422 Hereford 01432 353727

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - -

News from Brecon Singers Our Christmas concert will take place in St Mary’s Church Brecon on 16th December at 6pm.

It will include carols (join in with your favourites) and seasonal readings by young and older members of the community. There will be a raffle and local food and crafts for sale. All monies raised will go to St Mary’s Supper Club.

Tickets £7.50 (Under 18s voluntary donation) including refreshments.

If you love to sing, join us at rehearsals in Y Neuadd Goffa, Christ College Wednesdays 7.30.–9.30pm.

No auditions.

Ring 01874658332 or visit www.breconsingers. co.uk for more information.

BUILDING AND DECORATING CONTRACTOR

RENOVATIONS

ALTERATIONS

NEW BUILDS STONE WALLING tel: 01982 551263 mobile: 07789 756032 email: marcusjames71@btinternet.com

ALL BUILDING WORK UNDERTAKEN PLEASE PHONE FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE

Invest in your child’s future

STEVE COOK

One To One Tuition

Painter & Decorator

fREE ASSESSMEnT & COnSUlTATIOn

friendly, very experienced, local, full time, professional Tutor offers:

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING

• Maths, English and Science for

ages 6 to 16.

PAPER HANGING

• Regular, intensive, holiday or intermittent courses available weekdays and weekends.

• Reduced rates for 2 per lesson.

Plus • Revision, Entrance Exams, G.C.S.E. etc.

• Controlled Assessment support.

• Home schooling support and advice.

• Adult literacy & numeracy.

REASONABLE RATES

Call Steve on 8 01874 62240 1 08 or 07983 689

Maurice Markwell Mobile: 07796 344615

VisiT websiTe nOw

www.onetoonetuition.net REfEREnCES AvAIlAblE/EnHAnCED CRb

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Beacons Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning (FORMERLY ANDREW ECKLEY)

(SR«X KIX WXYGO XLMW [MRXIV +MZI %KI ']QVY 4S[]W E GEPP ;I«VI LIVI XS LIPT

• High Powered • Truck Mounted • Steam Cleaning

'SRXEGX ]SYV RIEVIWX SJ´GI

• Fast Drying • We Don’t Use Your Water

&YMPXL ;IPPW

• We Don’t Use Your Electric • Safe & Pet Friendly Chemicals

2I[XS[R

• Fully Insured Call: Simon on 07813261697 Email: s.penny96@hotmail.com

6IKMWXIVIH 'LEVMX]

THE SECOND HAND SHOP

Llanigon Plant Hire

at THREE COCKS

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

CLEARANCES UNDERTAKEN – WE BUY AND SELL:

Furniture Toys White Goods Outdoor/garden items

Farm Slurry Tanks Emptied HAY-ON-WYE • TALGARTH • CRICKHOWELL • BRECON • SENNYBRIDGE AND SURROUNDING AREAS

GIVE US A CALL ON 01497 847653

01497 847880 (24hr) Registered carrier of waste

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - -

The icing on the cake!

James has been keen to write his letter to Santa since September! I remember being a child and Christmas always seemed to take forever to come. Now as an adult, I find it comes around quicker than I’d like!

A Shop for Children

But what a fantastic time of the year: the festive build up; Christmas Fayres and shopping trips; the turning on of the lights; family gatherings; celebrations with friends; the excitement of putting out the carrots and mince pies on Christmas Eve; the opening of the presents Christmas morning; followed by the mother of all lunch time meals! Supporting your local high street this year will be the icing on the cake!

We would like to wish all our customers old and new a Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year x

Brecon Cathedral Shop

Stockists for Startrite & Little Green Radicals

Priory Hill, Brecon LD3 9DP.

We offer a superb range of unique cards for all occasions, books, confectionery, toys, ties, scarves, socks, scented candles, pictures, CDs, Welsh and religious (including Cathedral) items, plus a growing range of gifts for music-lovers.

Our Toys and Shoes and Children’s clothes are now all under one roof.

Now in stock: Caldey Island lavender products and delightful “Church Mouse” reproductions by Oakapple Designs – perfect for Christmas presents.

The shop is situated in the historic Tithe barn, opposite the Cathedral, which also houses the Exhibition Centre (available to hire).

Pilgrims Tearooms is adjacent, which serves light lunches, cakes and tea/coffee.

There is free parking for customers in the Cathedral’s car-park.

Come and visit us at 6 The Bulwark, Brecon, LD3 7LB. Phone: 01874 624303

Shop hours (until 4th Nov): 10.45am to 4.15pm Monday to Saturday, 12.15pm to 4pm Sundays From 4th Nov: 11.45am to 3.45pm Monday to Saturday, closed on Sundays Contact: 01874 623857 www.breconcathedralshop.co.uk

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - -

Relaxing, eating or drinking and browsing books ...

Where did the name ‘The Hours’ come from? Owners Leigh & Nicola wanted to capture the essence of or idea of the place they had created – somewhere where people could wile away an hour or two with friends or family, relaxing; eating or drinking and browsing books.The Hours was also the working title for Virginia Woolf ’s novel Mrs Dalloway and they wanted to echo that literary connection.

The Hours Cafe & Bookshop have recently reached their third birthday and that’s a significant milestone for any independent business, especially one involved in bookselling. Leigh tells us “We’ve had huge support from the local community and that relationship is key to the success of any business in these uncertain times.

We are now involved in four Festivals throughout the year – Brecon Women’s Festival in March; Plethiad Klezmer & Balkan Music Festival in June, Brecon Fringe Music Festival in August, and Brecon Arts Festival in October. We also have plans to launch our own mini Festival over the next 18 months which we are very much looking forward to”.

Leigh informs us “If I was going to suggest a book that should be shared with children (and adults!) this Christmas it would be the truly wonderful ‘A Child’s Christmas in Wales’ by Dylan with illustrations

by Edward Ardizzone – available from The Hours. It is a magical story beautifully and simply told that really captures the essence of a Welsh childhood at Christmas.

It’s poetic, atmospheric and comical all at the same time and once you read it it is sure to become a firm festive favourite to be read aloud with loved ones on Christmas Eve or any other time.

Nicky added “Our premise has always been value for money, which is so important, especially in this day and age.We wanted to create fresh, home-cooked food, full of good flavours and lovingly prepared without overcharging, and we really feel like we have achieved that”.

In the run up to Christmas the menu takes on a festive flavour, the wonky green building takes on a sparkly cosy feel and lots of thought and time goes into what kind of books people might want to share with others at this special time. Alongside Leigh & Nicky’s handpicked books they stock a lovely selection of booky themed gifts like bags, mugs, diaries and their bespoke booky boxes - a hamper of books and book – themed gifts to suit book-lovers of every description.

Leigh’s particular favourite is their Dylan Thomas gift box with really beautiful versions of his publications.

2014 marks the centenary of Dylan Thomas’ birth and with celebratory events planned across Wales and the world, it is a unique opportunity to share his amazing body of work with new readers and ardent fans alike.

CHRISTMAS TREES LOCALLY GROWN TREES, READY CUT, OR CUT YOUR OWN Variety of sizes and species Open from: 1st December – 24th.

Everyday – daylight hours GARLANDS & MISTLETOE

PENPONT CHRISTMAS FAIR December 7th/8th 10.00am- 5.00pm

A variety of stalls, Refreshments, and Willow star making workshop.

(Saturday only) Penpont is 4 miles west of Brecon on A40.

Look out for the tree sign.

TEL: 01874 636202 www.penpont.com

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - -

Visit us for all your beautiful booky gifts this Christmas...

The Hours Cafe & Bookshop is a place ...

Lovingly Hand-picked Books Bespoke Gift Boxes Literary Posters, Bags & Mugs Journals, Notebooks, Diaries Cards & Gift Tokens

‘Bookshops are usually only like this in dreams...a place to stumble upon and cherish’. The Guardian ... for Beautiful Books, Food & Coffee A warm welcome awaits

Opening Hours: Tues-Sat 10.00-17.00 (closed Sun & Mon) Telephone: 01874 622 800 15, Ship Street, Brecon, LD3 9AD thehours@btinternet.com, www.the-hours.co.uk

COACH HOUSE INTERIORS

A friendly family business offering:t A wide selection of well priced fabrics and gifts in stock t Extensive Range of Pattern Books t Curtain Making Service t In- house workroom for all your soft furnishing requirements t Gifts & Accessories for the Home t Upholstery Work Undertaken

Christmas Shopping Festive gifts and decorations now in store!

Looking forward to seeing you at The Coach House, Brobury House, Bredwardine, Hereford Tel: 01981 500777 www.coachhouse-interiors.com Ample Free Parking OPENING TIMES: MON-FRI 10-5PM SAT 10-4PM

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - -

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 10 -

Good Luck to Gareth “Snowy” Jones This month longstanding employee Gareth “Snowy” Jones leaves Hay & Brecon Farmers as he has reached retiring age in December.

The new upstairs showroom is now open and it’s breathtaking!!

Gareth who lives in Talgarth with his wife Sheila has been with Hay & Brecon Farmers for 27 years, joining in 1986 after leaving College Farm,Trefecca where he had worked as a farm assistant from a young age.

“ From all the staff of Hay & Brecon Farmers we wish Snowy all the best in his retirement.”

Customers will be delighted to discover that we have now expanded the shop, with a wedding consultation room and a new collection of gifts, florist supplies and painted furniture. From unique wedding bouquets to elegant reception flowers, we have the expertise and vision to provide that extra special touch for every wedding. The new consultation room offers a relaxed environment in which brides can discuss ideas for their wedding flowers. The Florists corner provides materials for flower arrangers or anyone who enjoys creating flower displays and of course Becca Jane or a member of her team are always on hand to offer advice.

Gareth has worked many roles during his time at Hay & Brecon, including driving HGV Lorries, working as a warehouse assistant, running Sennybridge Depot and has in recent years done a fantastic job of running our bulk feed shed in Brecon.

“Gareth has been particularly instrumental in growing the tote feed business where bulk feed is supplied in ½ tonne bags instead of 12 tonne lorries; a facility that has given the depot network a great advantage over competitors in the bulk feed market. We hope to continue seeing Snowy regularly though as he is a keen gardener and will surely have him visiting us for all his gardening needs.” says Shelley.

From all the staff of Hay & Brecon Farmers we wish Snowy all the best in his retirement.

See our website or call into the shop for more products.

Tel: 01874 622220 Opening times are 9:00am - 5:00pm

34 High Street, Brecon

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 11 -

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 12 -

The Rohan Superfine Merino takes full advantage of the incredible properties of nature’s finest technical fabric – it’s very rare and very special. It’s incredibly soft, luxuriously comfortable, high wicking, UV protective and has an uncanny natural resistance to the build up of odour. We think it makes the perfect cold weather base layer.

From crew and zip neck tops to necktubes, scarves and hats – A perfect Christmas gift idea to keep your loved ones cosy and warm over the chilly winter months.

ers ouchble!

Gift v ila a v a now

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 13 -

Local Landscapes

2014 Calendar

Photographs in and around

Brecon,Talgarth and Hay

ON SALE NOW IN VARIOUS OUTLETS BRECON: Bishops Meadow Garage, Brecon Cathedral Shop, Brecon Photo Centre, Brecon Tourist Information Centre, Cariad, Edwards News, My Deli,The Hours, The Retreat, The Rustic Retail Company. TALGARTH: Siop Y Bont, The Deli Pot, Talgarth Mill, Talgarth Stores, Talgarth Tourist Information.

HAY: Bartrums, Broad Street Books, Country Supplies, Dolls House Fun, F W Golesworthy’s, Gibbons Butchers, Hay Newsagents, Hay Post Office, HayTourist Information, NumberTwo, Pughs of Londis, R M Jones Pharmacy, TheThoughtful Gardener. SURROUNDINGVILLAGES: Boughrood Stores, Church Barn Farm Shop, Clyro Post Office, Friends of Bronllys Hospital, Glasbury Arts,Glasbury Station,LibanusVisitor Centre,Regent House Filling Station, Talybont Stores,The Old Railway Line Nursery,Three Cocks Garage,Wye Knot Stop.

Only £6.50 (rrp)

Makes the ideal present this Christmas

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 14 -

BRECON

Thursdays 7pm St Davids Hall, Beilihelig Road, Llanfaes

Tel: Shelly 01874 622846 or 07980 259638

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 15 -

News from Brecon Rotary Club THE “END POLIO NOW CAMPAIGN”

On world polio day club members were seen in on the streets of Brecon supporting this ongoing scheme which Rotary International has been at the forefront of the fight to end polio. Since the early 1980s polio cases have plummeted by more than 99% . To date more than two billion children have been immunised in 122 countries. Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland, through its 53,000 members, have raised over £30million. Currently it is hoped that on World Polio Day a further £150,000 will be raised, enough to vaccinate another 375,000 children.

Brecon Rotary collection raised just over £200 on the 24th October in Brecon town centre and this sum will be matched by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation through Rotary International .

If you would like to know more about this

campaign or information on becoming a Rotarian do look at our web site – Brecon Rotary Club or contact our current President Patrick Blake on 018764 636390.

THE CHRISTMAS SINGALONG

The Rotary Club of Brecon presents The Christmas Singalong at Brecon Cathedral on Monday 9th December 2013 at 7.30pm. Do Come! with Brecon Cathedral Choir and Yourselves.

Free admission with a collection for the Cathedral Choir.

D B Electrics ElEctrical contractors • Domestic, commercial, agricultural • new builds, barn conversions, extensions, rewires • Electrical installation condition reports (landlord certificates) • Fault finding, repairs and upgrades • Pat testing

Over 20 years’ experience in all aspects of electrical work tel: 01874 624927 Mob: 07976 504755 Email: trevorbillinge@gmail.com

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 16 -

Family Mediation

“Family disputes that are resolved through mediation are cheaper, quicker and, according to academic research, less acrimonious than those that are settled through the courts.� National Audit Office At a time when family finances are often under pressure and have to be divided, mediation is far cheaper and less time consuming than going through the court system.

Family Mediation can be used in a wide variety of circumstances, for example: Contact and residence issues Financial provision disputes Maintenance claims Issues between grandparents and parents Post divorce issues relating to the family Contact Joanne Deveney to discuss how Amity Mediation can help you Amity Mediation Limited, 12 The Bulwark, Brecon LD3 7AD Tel: 01874 624927 Mob: 07539 369000 Email: info@amitymediation.co.uk Web: amitymediation.co.uk

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 17 -

Does your business need more sales?

Do you want to increase your customer base?

Contact us for details of our FREE Business Growth Initiative

Pony Trekking/Riding/Hacking Spectacular riding into the heart of the Black Mountains.

Quality horses and friendly, experienced guides ensure all abilities have an enjoyable day

Riding Lessons for Children & Adults All ages and abilities catered for

BHS Qualified Instructors Floodlit Manege X-Country Course under construction BHS Approved Livery Facilities DIY or Full Tregoyd Riding Centre

Brecon: 01874 622528 Ian@mitchellmeredith.co.uk Marian@mitchellmeredith.co.uk www.mitchellmeredith.co.uk

Three Cocks, Brecon, Powys LD3 0SP Tel: 01497 847351 Email: info@tregoydriding.co.uk Web: www.tregoydriding.co.uk

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 18 -

LEXY’S HAIR DESIGN

Wishing all our customers a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT PLEASE CALL IN OR TEL 622126

TEL 01874 622126 OPENING TIMES: MON/FRI 9am to 4.30pm SAT 8am to 1.30am Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 19 -

Are your recycling bins a problem?

You need the Bin Mobile

Based Locally between Brecon and Hay

Marquees for all occasions

NOW

ÂŁ55 Order direct on 01874 624600 or come and pick up from the Brecon firm that makes them:

www.westcountrymarquees.co.uk

www.goddardengineering.com

Tel: 01874 938005 E: wales@westcountrymarquees.co.uk

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 20 -

News from Firstly, we are looking for someone new to join our team. Please see page 3 of this issue for full details on the Freelance Sales Executive role – don’t be put off by the formal title as most likely this role will suit a local person looking to ‘top up’ their hours or get back into work after starting a family. The ideal candidate would be integrated into the Brecon community and a supporter of what it is we do – encouraging local residents to use what’s on their doorstep.

Next year there are some changes ahead for us ...

First of all we are going ALL colour. Whilst the black and white adverts are popular with some of our advertisers, we are finding more and more are opting for colour. So to accommodate the businesses with the smaller advertising budgets we will be introducing a smaller advert. A 1/8 page colour advert means you can still be included in the Local Beacon and in fact pay less than you would for a 1/4 page in black & white.

Secondly, as of 1st January 2014, we will be forced to go VAT Registered. Since starting our sister publication the Wye Local magazine in 2006, I have been mindful of not having to make this leap. However, since the launch of

Local Beacon and its steady growth we are now too near the VAT thresh hold. Hence the leap must be made.

The good news is that we are currently speaking with some local printers and are negotiating some competitive printing prices. January usually sees a slight increase in costs with our printers, but this year we are going to try for a slight decrease. Rest assured though that we will try our very best to still bring you great value advertising rates. Although costs are still to be firmed up, which will be introduced as of our February 2014 issues, we are determined for you, as a local business, not to pay any more than you already have been for the last 24 months.

Next month we will be including a feedback form.This is so that you are able to tell us how we are doing. We would like to know what you think of your community magazine/s and what you think of the new website. It is important to us that we listen to you, the local residents.

We are looking for feedback from you, good or bad (bad is completely fine providing constructive criticism is also supplied). To encourage a response from our readers we will be offering some great prizes!

Thanks, Lisa Marie x

Seasoned

FIREWOOD & Kindling

Tractor & Trailer Loads, Truck & Trailer Loads, or by the Bag WA N T E D Good price paid for all Hardwood: windblows, fallen or standing trees

Adrian Williams

Bryngroes Cottage, Velindre, Brecon, Powys LD3 0TA

Tel: 01874 711183 Mobile: 07974 811297

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 21 -

The Giddy

Pig

Financial ServiceS • Savings & Investments • Inheritance Tax Planning • Pensions • Protection

HOG ROAST COMPANY

• General/Commercial Insurance

Fully Mobile Hog Roast Catering Service for all Social occasions and events.

Pen offICeeto , Brecon 8 Ship Stre

www.thegiddypig.com Get in touch to discuss your event 01874 658819

Tel: 01874 610707 Mobile: 07970692927 annie.daniel@sjpp.co.uk www.sjpp.co.uk/anniedaniel

Meat supplied by W J George Butchers, Talgarth

WOOL & STAINFREE CARPETS CORDS & BERBERS, LAMINATE & VINYLS UNDERLAY & FITTINGS CAN BE SUPPLIED

QUALITY VERTICAL, VENETIAN, WOODEN VENETIAN & ROLLER BLINDS

FROM

£69 INCLUDING FITTING

(BASED ON THE WINDOW SIZE 68”x48”)

FREE ESTIMATES FREE FITTING

CALL DAVE EVANS on 01874 754898 07766 727209

Lesley Walker RADRTS, AIDTA

Unit 2, Chambers Yard, Silver Street, Brecon, LD3 8BG (next to Ian Jones Tyres)

www.ribbons.org.uk T: 01874 623219

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 22 -

Brecon Beacons Tourism – here to help your business!

With satisfaction rates up for visitors coming to Wales this year, and the majority saying they will “definitely “come back for more (Visit Wales, Wales Visitor Survey 2013), tourism to our region really is rising.

If you are a tourism business in the Brecon Beacons, Brecon Beacons Tourism (BBT) is the number one place you should be in touch with to grow your business. With a NEW member website, www. breconbeaconstourism.org is packed with lots of benefits. All you need to know is at your fingertips.

BBT began in 2006 when a group of local tourism businesses decided they needed to work together to promote themselves to the outside world.

7 years later BBT now has over 230 members representing all tourism interests in the area including accommodation, activity providers, visitor attractions, shops, pubs and other local suppliers.

Brecon Beacons Tourism – securing your business.

A recent survey of BBT members revealed 100% would recommend membership of BBT to others.

Anna Heywood, owner of Drovers Holidays, and a BBT member says “BBT is forward-looking and embodies a genuinely collaborative spirit. Crucially, the organisation really helps to make things happen – this is no mere talking shop... BBT has bite as well as bark!”

If you want to increase your marketing, save your business money, meet others and learn more about growing your tourism business why not meet us?

Come to one of our next member meetings. Details on our website – www.breconbeaconstourism.org.

All welcome.

For more information call 01874 638835, email info@breconbeaconstourism.co.uk

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 23 -

Gardeners Tips & Advicefor December Flower Garden ˆ Check stakes are secure on climbers and trees ˆ Prune existing rose bushes and plant out new rose bushes ˆ Move shrubs that are growing in the wrong place ˆ If weather turns very cold, move containers of shrubs or winter bedding into a sheltered spot Kitchen Garden ˆ Start pruning apple and pear trees ˆ Prune side shoots on gooseberries back to about 5cm ˆ Plant out new fruit bushes ˆ Pot up herbs and bring in to over winter Greenhouse ˆ )RWYVI MRWYPEXMSR MW WIGYVIP] ½XXIH ˆ 'LIGO JYIP PIZIPW MR KEW ERH TEVEJ½R LIEXIVW

ˆ Ventilate greenhouses on dry days ˆ Treat timber greenhouses with stain or preservative on dry days General Advice ˆ Plant bare root hedging plants now ˆ Keep bird feeders clean and well stocked ˆ Cut back honeysuckles ˆ Winter dig the vegetable garden ˆ Protect hosepipes and outside taps from frost

Merry Christmas

and a Happy New Year From all the team

At Wye Local & Local Beacon Rug

Puffins Pre-School Washing,

Repair & Livery Services

:H RIIHU D IDVW IULHQGO\ HIÂżFLHQW DQG UHOLDEOH UXJ ZDVKLQJ DQG UHSDLU VHUYLFH Proprietor: Claire Jones

Open 8am-6pm Mon-Fri ‡ 2XWGRRU UXJ ZDVK IURP … Tel: 01874 611615 • Providing child care for children aged 3 months – 4 years. • Fully qualified andCRB checked, friendly staff. • Offering 3 year old funding. )RU D IXOO SULFH OLVW DQG

• Extremely spacious outdoor areas.

PRUH GHWDLOV YLVLW RXU ZHEVLWH • Promoting the Welsh language.

www.primoequus.co.uk

• Providing a safe and friendly home from home environment for all.

2U &RQWDFW 9LFN\

0RELOH Please Local when responding to adverts To advertise in the Localmention BeaconWye tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk -- 37 24 --

r

Theatres

Pilgrims

Wordsearch

Licensed tea rooms and outside catering

Delicious homemade food, freshly made from local produce in the heart of the Brecon Beacons Open Mon-Sun 9.30am-4pm Drinks & Cakes served all day Breakfasts 9.30-11am Lunches & Snacks 12-2.30pm Roast Lunches every Sunday

Lyceum Actor Lyric Adelphi Lyttleton Albery National Aldwych Olivier Apollo Palace Arts Phoenix Comedy Play Dominion Queen’s Drama Savoy Drury Lane Show Duchess Star Fortune Strand Garrick Theatre Gielgud Globe WEST END For the chance to WIN a £10 Christmas Hamper from Honddu Wholefoods, please complete the wordsearch, fill in the details below and send to Local Beacon. Closing date is 16th December 2013.

Name:.......................................................................................

Address:..................................................................................

THIS MONTH de Complementary homema treat with every coffee Mulled wine & mince pies n oo served every weekday aftern Festive lunches available ial) until 21st Dec (Booking essent

DaY 2014 OpeN New YeaR’S Menus now available on our website www.pilgrims-tearooms.co.uk Private evening opening for parties of 15 people or more, contact us for more details.

Situated in the Cathedral Close alongside Brecon Cathedral Shop Cathedral Close, Brecon, LD3 9DP Tel: 01874 610610 Email: pilgrimstearooms@btconnect.com

Telephone Number:........................................................

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 25 -

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 26 -

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 27 -

Wild in December

Protecting wildlife for the future

Humbugs on sticks, flying lollipops and Long-tailed Tits travel in loose follow-my-leader flocks. Quickly and often upside down, they inspect a tree’s outermost twigs, the parts that other birds can’t reach.

Feathers provide wonderful insulation, but when you are this small you must eat hundreds of tiny insects to keep going, and they are harder to find in winter when you need them most. So Long-tails aIways seem to be in a hurry, but may stop a while if there are suet balls or peanuts to peck. They are quite recent additions to the range of birds that benefit from the food we put out. On short freezing December days free meals can save lives.

If you are thinking about Christmas presents, how about a feeder and food to fill it? You could give someone the pleasure of watching the birds and a warm feeling from helping their survival.

I wish you a Merry Christmas and invite you, when ready for a breath of fresh air, to the New Year Birdwatch at Llangorse Lake on Saturday 4th

January. The details are in the Events Diary at www. brecknockwildlifetrust.org.uk.

Article by Keith Noble

CRB CHeCkeD, liCenseD & Fully insuReD

We step in when you are out!

3 Home boarding 3 Dog walking 3 Pet sitting 3 Horse & Farm animal care 3 1 to1 Coaching on Dog Behaviour issues 3 We can also look after your property while you are away (even without pets)

Book your FREE consultation now!

Petra 01874 636385 Mob 07908 970196 leadsnfeedsbrecon@gmail.com www.leadsnfeeds.com

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 28 -

Welcome to High quality award-winning food stuffs sourced throughout Wales. A range of fresh, salads on a daily basis, to take away. now stocking home-made, tasty, guaranteed gluten-free products, from ‘Love at First Bake’. Bread from Alex Gooch (Saturdays) award winning Artisan breadmaker from Hay. He has recently won the ‘World Bread Awards’.

My Deli is the only outlet in Brecon selling his breads.

Look forward to seeing you at 6A THe BulWArk, Brecon

01874 611671

Rug Washing, Repair & Livery Services :H RIIHU D IDVW IULHQGO\ HI¿FLHQW DQG UHOLDEOH UXJ ZDVKLQJ DQG UHSDLU VHUYLFH ‡ 2XWGRRU UXJ ZDVK IURP …

)RU D IXOO SULFH OLVW DQG PRUH GHWDLOV YLVLW RXU ZHEVLWH

www.primoequus.co.uk 2U &RQWDFW 9LFN\

0RELOH Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 29 -

Castle Jokes Q: How many Englishman does it take to break down a castle gate?

A: 10,000. 100 to hold the battering ram, and 9,900 to swing the castle back and forth.

Q: Who invented Arthur’s round table?

A: Sir Cumference!

King

Q: Why were they called the dark ages?

A: Because there were so many knights!

Thank you to Nancy of Hay Castle Trust for letting us ‘borrow’ the above jokes, copyright remains with you!

10% OFF

if an oven cleaning pack is ordered (Oven, hOb & extractOr)

£60 single pack is ount) (£54 with disc is £70 double pack ount), (£63 with disc £110 £90range pack is discount). (£81-£99 with

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 30 -

Could this be the death of the final salary pension?

INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVICE

The Pensions Minister Steve Webb has laid down his latest proposals to reform Britain’s workplace pension system.This has been in response to the majority of final salary schemes being axed by employers due to the escalating costs of providing such benefits.

There are now just 1.7m people left in private-sector final salary schemes, compared with 5m 20 years ago. Just 841 final salary schemes remain open.

Mr Webb has voiced his concerns that “if we do nothing, final salary schemes will all be shut down”.

Under current legislation the employer must offer a final salary pension that rises with inflation and that offers a pension payout to any widower on death of the member. These extra benefits are prohibitively expensive for the employer. Mr Webb intends to scrap the automatic inclusion of these benefits to encourage more employers to offer a pension that is related to earnings.The new schemes will be called “flexible final salary”.

The proposed changes to legislation would also apply retrospectively to existing final salary schemes. This has led to protests from some activist groups who are accusing the government of moving the goalposts. A worker could have saved diligently throughout their working life to obtain enhanced pension benefits only to have the rug pulled from under their feet at the last minute.

With the proposed changes to final salary pensions and the recent changes brought about under auto-enrolment no one could accuse Mr Webb of sitting still. Although there may be some future pensioners and widowers who would describe him slightly differently.

“Your local source of unbiased advice explained in Plain English”

– Tom Russell – Director of Beacon IFA Ltd

ComPAny REgiSTRATion: 8010169 VAT no: 315071788

f SAVINgS & INVESTmENTS f RETIREmENT PLANNINg f moRTgAgES f INhERITANCE TAx mITIgATIoN f FAmILy PRoTECTIoN Contact: t: 01874 611911 e: enquiries@beaconifa.co.uk w: beaconifa.co.uk Directly authorised by the Financial Services Authority

(Formerly Austin Price Drain Services)

DO YOU NEED YOUR SEPTIC TANK EMPTYING Give us a call on 01874 622215 or 07850 269305

Jetting • CCTV Camera Surveying • Repairs • Tank Emptying t: 01874 622215 / 07850 269305 w: www.apdrainageltd.com e:admin@apdrainageltd.com

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Brecon Film Society madame de...

Monday 2nd DECember FRANCE 1953 Dir: max ophuls In a re-release of this black and white film, a comtesse in fin-de-siĂŠcle Paris sells the earrings given to her as a wedding gift by her husband.

Christmas GreetinGs and Best Wishes for the neW Year to all our Customer and friends

Next Month: The Salt of Life Monday 6TH January

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 32 -

Kids’ Page –

Brecon Cathedral

Christmas tree Festival

Make your own Stand-Alone Star Craft This 3-dimensional star decoration is made from 2 paper stars that are interlaced. These stars stand by themselves on a table, and make great Christmas decoration.

• Two paper stars are needed to make one 3dimensional star. Draw two identical stars on a piece of stiff paper.

• Decorate the two stars (if you like) on both sides, then cut them out.

• Make one slit in each star. On one star, the slit goes from an inner corner to the center point of the star; on the other star, the slit goes from an outer corner to the center point.

• You now have a great three-dimensional star decoration that stands by itself on a table.

Thursday 5th – Monday 9th December 2013 OVER 40

TREES DECORATED TO REFLECT BRECON’S SCHOOLS, CHARITIES AND CLUBS

Thursday 5th: 9.30am to 8.30pm 6.00pm: Choral Evensong 7.15pm: Aberhonddu & District Male Choir with mulled wine and mince pies Friday 6th: 9.30am to 8.30pm 6.00pm: Choral Evensong 7.15pm: Talgarth Male Voice Choir with mulled wine and mince pies Saturday 7th: 9.30am to 6.00pm 1.00pm: Dan & Laura Curtis Concert

Pwllgloyw Arms

Sunday 8th: 12.30pm to 6.00pm 8.00am: Holy Eucharist 11.00am: Choral Eucharist 3.30pm: Choral Evensong

Wishing all our customers a very happy Christmas

Monday 9th: 9.30am to 9.00pm 7.00 pm: Rotary Carols with the Cathedral Choir

Xmas bookings being taken now Parties, Meals, Festive Family get-togethers.

Entrance FREE Festival Guide £2

4 miles north of Brecon on the B4520 Home cooked food • En-suite B&B

For more information contact Brecon Cathedral Office on 01874 623857 or admin@breconcathedral.org.uk

01874 690282 LD3 9PY

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 33 -

Cariad’s Column Hiya!

This is one of my bestest words ... Hiya!

It has been a long time since I put crayon to paper, lots has been going on ...

I can now walk.

It took me a while. Mummy says I’m a late started like her.

But now I am able to keep up with my chums at nursery.

Please could I say a big THANK YOU to my nursery teachers at Busy Bess and Bizzie Lizzies – you look after me while my Mummy and Daddy work and we have such fun.

In November I went to Velindre Fireworks. I was too chesty to go to the other displays, but Velindre was a little later than the others and by then my cough had gone. Off I went in my Tiger outfit and red wellies ... raaaaaah! The fireworks were bright and made big bangs! I liked them lots, especially as my big bro was there to hold my hand.

I’ve also been to the Old Railway Line in Three Cocks. Again such fun – there were some loud toys singing Christmas songs. My Mummy tells my Daddy every year not to buy them as they are annoying. But my Daddy never listens! I bet Daddy takes me and James there soon and we come back with one each!

Mummy won’t be cross for long. Daddy says we can go when the reindeers are there. They are Santa’s reindeers and they are going to visit the children everywhere, whether they are naughty or nice.

I like Christmas, we sing songs about Santa getting stuck up our chimney!

Merry Christmas. Love Cariad x

'INA , -URRAY Clairvoyant Medium

Tarot, Healing, Animal Readings, Workshops

Available at The Hay Clinic, Hay-on-wye and Llyswen

mob: 07812 035459 email: ginalmurray@gmail.com www.ginalmurray.com

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 34 -

SMITH BUILDERS LTD The future of construction

Combining traditional building with the innovation of new sustainable technologies...

• New Builds • Extensions • Barn Conversions • Renovation • Commercial Contracting M: 07815 089213 : 07875 701226 T: 01544 327169 E: info@smithbuildersltd.co.uk W: www.smithbuildersltd.co.uk Brick Cottage Winforton Hereford HR3 6EB

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 35 -

Brecon Poets: MIKE DOUSE Each issue of your Local Beacon will from now onwards include a short piece by a local poet.

This month’s poem is by Mike Douse who has worked in some sixty developing countries advising on major educational programmes. A published poet, Mike lives in Libanus with his wife Patricia, both of whom are involved in the Brecon Speakers Club and the Brecon Political and Theological Discussion Group as well as with the Brecon Poetry Group.

Escape Claus Reindeer jokes, don’t they just sleigh ya?

Ho! Ho! Ho! Saint Nicholas of Myra (attributed)

#SFDPO $ISJTUNBT -JHIUT $PNQFUJUJPO

It’s nearing that time to dust off the Christmas lights and help make Brecon Sparkle.

Herdsmen in the fells abiding, Christmas elves to left and right; Dasher, Comet, Cupid, Rainbow Frolic through the Lapland night.

Enter into the 2013 Brecon Town Council Christmas Lights Competition!

During the week of 16th December, the Mayor accompanied by his little helpers will wander around the town to look at entries in two different categories:

Donner roars and Blitzen sparkles Antlers locking in the snow; Dancer mocks and Prancer teases: ‘His proboscis seems to glow’.

• ThE BEST LIT BuSInESS

Spake the Angel unto Rudolph: ‘Hail thou highly favoured beast, Blessed art thou amongst reindeer, Guide the sledge throughout the feast!’

• ThE BEST LIT houSE Winners will be awarded a trophy and have their works of art photographed and featured in the local press!

To enter, simply contact Brecon Town Council on 01874 622884 (mornings only) or email: brecon.guildhall@btinternet.com

Red-nosed stag, red-coated Santa, Harnessed in unbridled glee: ‘Every child shall get a present Provided he believes in me’.

Contributions from local poets are invited.

These should be no more than 24 lines in length and accompanied by two or three succinct sentences about the poet. They should please be emailed to breconpoets@yahoo.com and not directly to the Local Beacon.

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 36 -

1 Steeple Lane, (next to St. Mary’s Church) Brecon LD3 7DJ Tel: 01874 623371 Fax: 01874 611195

Property Law and Commercial Specialist Buying and Selling Property Acquisition of Land Business Sales & Purchases Commercial Leases Probate Wills JAneT TiMOThy, Partner, specialises in all matters concerning land including the buying and selling of houses, land, businesses, commercial property and commercial Leases. Janet also has extensive experience in Probate and Wills.The firm promotes dealing with clients directly on a one to one basis without any legal jargon.

“I know myself how frustrating it is not to have phone calls returned or not to be able to speak to the person you need to, so we put our clients first by making ourselves easily accessible.We give out direct phone numbers and email addresses in order that we can deal with any queries as quickly and efficiently as possible to, hopefully, ease what is already a stressful process. We know that the modern business is not constrained by traditional office hours and 9 to 5 doesn’t always suit business clients.”

Family Law Specialist Divorce MOD Pensions Finances after divorce Separation Agreements Children’s Matters to include Residence, Contact, Adoption and representation of Grandparents.

Pre-nuptial Agreements Cohabitation Disputes/Agreements GiLL MARTin specialises in all areas of Family law and is accredited by the Law Society as a Family Law specialist. She is also a member of Resolution which promotes a constructive and non adversarial approach to family matters. Gill is based in our Brecon office, please contact her for an initial consultation. “ My aim is to provide a specialist legal service to those facing divorce, separation or disputes concerning children. I offer a personal, professional service which supports the emotional as well as legal needs of my client.Whilst it is always best to try and resolve matters, I adopt a tough approach when my client’s interests are at stake.”

PHONE: 01874

623371

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 37 -

Heat Logs Eco-friendly, long burning briquettes.

Made with clean sawdust from local sources.

Minimal ash, no sparking, clean to handle.

* * * * * * * *

Prices starting from £3.00 per Pack

(Depending on quantity) Credit Cards accepted via PayPal

Available in packs of 10kg or pallets up to 1000kg (Pallet delivery available) Contact: Nino - 01432 352 776 or http://stores.shop.ebay.co.uk/twowsw2books

ROOFING THE ORIGINAL PERRY FAMILY trading as:

The Perry family has been repairing roofs in this area for over 45 years (three generations): • Traditional built up high tensile felting systems, fibre glass, single ply, liquid coatings, slating & tiling with manufacturers’ backed guarantees ranging from 10-25 years; • UPVC fascias and guttering – with 10 year guarantee.

Your property deserves the best so, for a free survey and estimate tel: 0500 130852 www.centralroofing.co.uk

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 38 -

Whole Foods BEACONS WHOLEFOODS is a recent addition to Beacons Creative (Wales) Ltd, the unique social enterprise in Brecon providing employment and training in a safe and caring environment for people with learning difficulties and those furthest from employment opportunities. The company is born out of Powys County Council day care service; it is led by a strong voluntary board of directors and is a registered company limited by guarantee. The three projects run by Beacons Creative makes it possible for disabled people to be integrated in work places in the local community and benefit from the social aspects of work.

Cath Prosser, the manager of Beacons Whole Foods said ‘We are now able to provide a wide selection of speciality foods such as gluten free items, organic, vegetarian, vegan, fair-trade and eco products.

Customers like our ethos and different shopping experience; it is convenient, and we offer individual customer service’.

This season, organic Christmas cake ingredients, gluten free Christmas puddings, mulled wine organic spices and individual hampers made to order are available.

Since 2012, the beginning of the development programme at Beacons Wholefoods, this business is growing and signs indicate a very positive outlook.

The shop has been refurbished recently and the next addition will be an In Store Bakery introducing Artisan Baker Ian Sheeran, who will be producing new products and will take orders for specific dietary needs.

Email: info@beaconscreative.co.uk Telephone 01874 610598.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS FROM BEACONS WHOLEFOODS 1 Rich Way, Brecon, LD3 7EH

• Speciality Foods – Gluten Free, Organic, Vegan, Vegetarian & Fair Trade.

• Hampers made to Order • Eco Products, a large selection of ‘ECOVER’ • Comprehensive range of Home Bakery Products • Locally Sourced Products • Bulk buys available to order at a discount.

• Coming very soon Artisan Baker working within the store.

Orders undertaken for speciality bread.

• 10% DISCOUNT on Hampers with this advertisement until December 31st 2013.

In Association with Beacons Creative (Wales) Ltd. Award winning Social Enterprise in Brecon. info@beaconscreative.co.uk Telephone 01874 610598

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 39 -

Gluten free products that can be enjoyed by all the household Her Mum recalls one of Teri-Ann’s first baking attempts when at the age of four she presented her Dad with lovingly overworked, grey pastry, jam tarts at the end of his working day and yes, he did eat them.

That was “Love at First Bake” for Teri-Ann and through the years growing up she spent many hours in the kitchen playing sous chef to her Dad, who loved to cook.

A wheat intolerance meant Teri-Ann started to follow a gluten free diet five years ago and the challenge to adapt recipes presented itself. Her step-daughter Helen, is coeliac and as a teenager found it difficult to ask for or find gluten free; for Helen there was a simple fix “just make everything gluten free”, easier said than done! The most important element is that the bakes shouldn’t taste or look different to those made with gluten so that all can enjoy and the gluten element becomes irrelevant. With family and friends as critics, the repertoire continues to grow and new products are often developed from customer requests, some needing gluten free and some not.

When Teri-Ann contacted us, team member Veronica was especially interested to find out more.Veronica has been gluten free for over 12 years and has struggled on more than one occasion to eat out and constantly battles to enjoy the products purchased in the weekly food shop.

Teri-Ann dropped off a box of goodies and both Veronica’s and my taste buds were ready and waiting!

Mince Pies – Soft, crumbly pastry, crunchy deep filling, delicious – Pure Christmas Cranberry & Brie Muffins – Light, moist texture with a lovely balance of sweetness from the cranberries, complimenting the brie – Just right for lunchtime Apricot & Cherry Spice Muffins – Mouth watering chunks of apricots and cherries, light, moist and fruity

– Perfect with a brew any time of the day.

Chocolate & Marshmallow Cake – Very light, moist with a scrumptious gooey filling & icing – Indulgent.

Neither of us could believe they were all gluten free.

Not a dry texture in the slightest.Veronica’s partner tried some of the cake. He’s been so used to turning up his nose at the gluten free products from the supermarket and was really surprised to find that he actually enjoyed the flavour of the Chocolate & Marshmallow Cake.

In fact he enjoyed it more than a similar cake which included gluten!This was proof, Teri-Ann’s products can be enjoyed by all the household.

Veronica went on to tell me “Supermarkets are slowly improving, but they provide food which is nowhere near the quality of Teri-Ann’s homemade products.

Teri-Ann is a marvellous baker and has the most wonderful recipes, I will certainly be putting in an order for some mince pies and that’s just for starters.”

The newly opened “My Deli” in Brecon stocks a range of Teri-Ann’s produce and Mandy Davies will also take orders and special requests. Alternatively you can have a slice of one of Teri-Ann’s cakes at Erwood Station Craft Centre or No 18, Crickhowell. Keep up to date with new products, stockists, events and how to place orders on Facebook “Love at First Bake” Interested in becoming a stockist or adding Love at First Bake produce to your menu? Email teri-ann@ loveatfirstbake.co.uk for a free taster.

Thank you Teri-Ann for sharing your love of baking with us. We both look forward to seeing your cakes, muffins and pies in many more cafés and shops.

Lisa Marie and Veronica x PS Veronica has wrapped up the Jewelled Christmas Cake and is saving it for Christmas Day. It will be a huge treat to sample this over with family and friends.

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 40 -

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 41 -

Gluten Free Cake Recipe Ingredients 2 Whole oranges 5 eggs 175g caster sugar 50g polenta 175g ground alonds 1 teaspoon gluten free baking powder

January 2014 issue will be going January 2014 issue will be going

ALL ALLCOLOUR COLOUR Advertising Rates Colour Adverts

TO SERVE Mascarpone with icing sugar Preparation method Simmer 2 whole oranges for an hour in water until cooked through and soft but not falling apart. Let them cool then roughly chop ...in a mixer (I do it by hand) add 5 eggs and 175g caster sugar, then the chopped orange, then 50g polenta**, 175g ground almonds, 1 heaped teaspoon gluten free baking powder (I didn’t use any and it was fine).

Line a cake tin with parchment paper and cook for 40-45 mins in preheated oven between 160-80°C. ...if you want to make a syrup for the top then keep the water the oranges cooked in, add lots of sugar and cook down until it’s a syrup. While its cooking thinly slice some orange peel and add it to candy it while the syrup is cooking down... then I serve it with some mascarpone with a tiny bit of icing sugar stirred in! * I substitute the polenta with 50g extra ground almond as it’s nicer.

Also to make a lemon version I use 3 lemons and add a lot more sugar (I don’t measure, just by taste/eye).

Recipe by Veronica

Size

per month

6 months* 10% disc.

12 months* 15% disc.

1/8 Page 1/4 Page 1/2 Page 1 Page

£22.00 £36.00 £60.00 £103.00

£118.80 £194.40 £324.00 £556.20

£224.40 £367.20 £612.00 £1050.60

Cover Adverts Cover

per month

6 months* 10% disc

12 months* 15% disc.

Front Inside Front Inside Back Back

£180.00 £123.00 £123.00 £180.00

£972.00 £664.20 £664.20 £972.00

– – – –

Inserts (your leaflet placed within the magazine) All homes in Brecon 3800 magazines

£155.00

All homes Brecon & Community Points 5500 magazines £220.00 Dimensions of adverts (width x height): 1/4 page – 64mm x 91.5mm 1/2 page – 132mm x 91.5mm or 64mm x 187mm 1 page / Inside Cover / Back Cover – 132mm x 187mm Front Cover – 132mm x 150mm Local Beacon can design your advert free of charge.

All we need is the wording and any images.

Or you can supply finished artwork as a jpg or high res pdf.

Email: lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk

Copy deadline is the 14th of the month * To qualify for discounts for 6 or 12 months advertising, payment is required up front for the full period.

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 42 -

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Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 43 -

News from local W I s PRIORY WI The Annual Meeting began with the singing of Jerusalem after which President Marian Carrod welcomed the return of members Margaret Lewis and Gwen Williams.

Everyone was delighted to learn that Liz Roberts and Angela Jones had new grandchildren, both boys.

Joan Preece and Anne Jarman, Aberhonddu WI members, were introduced as tellers for the evening.

Heather Parry decided to retire from the committee and she was replaced by Julia Bussell. The rest of the committee remains the same. Marion Carrod will continue as President for another year.

Deanna Leboff was congratulated on being awarded second prize in the National W I Lady Denman Cup competition for her short story, a wonderful achievement.The story had to begin with the following sentence – ‘If I could be someone else for a day, I would be ...’ and Deanna chose to be ‘Just William’. She read her story to members which was most amusing.

The President gave her annual report.

She compared today’s expenses with those of 30 years ago which made everyone laugh. Secretary Lynne Jones wondered how PriorWI fitted in all the activities arranged over the past year.Treasurer Jean Evans reported a healthy bank balance.

After refreshments, it was ‘Members Evening’. Deborah Cogger read an old American article which brought gasps of disbelief from everyone. It was entitled ’23 reasons why a woman should not be given the vote’.

Marion Carrod read ‘Some of our favourite things’ and Heather Parry read ‘Count your blessings’. Mariane Morgan’s contribution was Christmas poetry which she had written and Marian Owens told everyone of her hilarious experience with singing taps in Colorado, U S A. Angela Jones thanked all members who had made the evening so entertaining.

Article by Mariane Morgan

A2B Taxis

& Minibus Hire Same reliable, friendly service,

NEW NUMBER! Call on: 01874 65 88 99

Email: a2btaxisuk@btconnect.com

FIREWOOD ALSO AVAILABLE

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Top quality firewood at competitive prices. Seasoned or unseasoned hard or softwood. Large or small amounts available, cut and split to your required size.

available for all occasions, near or far.

For a free no obligation quote, please contact

Visit our new website for more information: www.A2BTaxis.biz

E-mail: j.credland@yahoo.co.uk www.jtcredlandgardenservices.co.uk

Currently recruiting drivers call for more details

01874 711 724 or 07778 172 493

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 44 -

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 45 -

POWYS FACTORS Ltd BRECON

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To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 46 -

What’s on: during the week Monday Sewing Group: 1 – 3pm at Llanddew Village Hall. An informal group meeting each week for a chat and cup of tea while sewing.

Playford Style Dancing (English Country Dancing): 2.30 – 4pm at The Subud Hall, Nr Watton Villa, Brecon. Contact Peter Brock 01874 622889.

Rainbow Guides (For girls aged 5 & 6): (term time only). 4pm.

Cobbles Coffee Shop. Contact Pam Martin 07976 797107.

Brecon Athletics Club: 6 – 8pm at Brecon Leisure Centre. Contact Kath Crane 01874 623677.

Brecon Bridge Club: meet at the Brecon Rugby Club, the Watton, Brecon commencing at 6.45pm. New members and visitors are always welcome and should contact Chris Forbes on 01874 622158 for information.

Alive & Kickin’ Community Choir’: 7 – 9pm. St Michaels Church, Wheat St, Brecon. £5.00 per session / £3.00 for Coleg Powys Staff/ students.

Everyone, from age 12 upwards is very welcome. Please don’t worry about needing any past singing experience. It’s open to everyone! Contact Tanya Walker 07723016837 or email: tanyawalkermusic@hotmail.com.

Brecon Rotary Club: 7.30pm.

The George Hotel Brecon. New members welcome. Contact 01874 636390.

Charity Cash Bingo: 7.30pm at The Gremlin Hotel, Brecon.

TUESDAY Crick Howlers: 10am.The Parish Hall, Church Lane, Crickhowell.

The Crick Howlers are a natural voice group who meet weekly led by Helen Vincent, where all songs are taught by ear so you don’t need to be able to read

music. Contact 01873 832795 or email crickparishhall@ btinternet.com.

Qi Gong Exercise Group: 5.30 – 6.30pm at Royston Memorial Hall in Bronllys. Gentle and slow movements, everybody can do it, even can be done sitting down. £3 per session to cover costs. Contact Wynona 07972 348590.

Slimming World: 6.30pm at Bishop Bevan Hall, Lion St., Brecon. Contact Joan 01873 812053.

Gwernyfed Hockey Club – Training: 7 – 8pm Brecon Leisure Centre’s Astro. All abilities welcome. Contact Nicola Drew 07812 691345.

Scottish Dancing: 7 – 9.30pm at the Subud Hall, nr.

Watton Villa, Brecon. Beginners welcome. Contact Peter Brock 01874 622889.

Brecon Youth Club: 7 – 9.30pm (term time) at Brecon Youth Ctr., Cradoc Rd., Brecon. Activities: Arts and crafts, cookery, pool, dance, air hockey, darts, music room, IT suite. Age Group: 11 – 25. Contact Rhodri Jones (Senior Area Worker) 01874 622658.

Open Mic: 8pm. The Globe at Hay. The very best musicians from the locality and beyond.

Contact 01497 821762.

Shukokan Karate: 7 – 10pm at Brecon Leisure Centre. Contact Paul Jones 01874 623677.

Brecon Basketball Club: 8 – 9pm at Brecon Leisure Ctr. Contact Roger Norris 01874 623677.

WEDNESDAY Aberhonddu Angels (A Young WI Group): (First Wednesday of the month) WI Office, Lion St., Brecon. Follow on facebook for updates.

Brecon Breast Feeding Support Group: 10am – 12noon at St Johns Family Centre, Pendre,

Brecon. Weekly drop in session.

Contact 07866 924161 www. breconbibs.co.uk Trallong Art and Craft Group: (Every 2nd and 4th Wednesday in the month) 10.30am – 12.30pm A quiet, light space to paint, sew, or whatever you enjoy. Trallong Hall. All welcome. Please bring your own materials. Free taster session, small annual membership fee to cover hall costs. Contact Joy 01874 636125.

Sesiwn Sgwrsio dros baned: 12.30 – 1.30pm at The Brecon Volunteer Bureau. Small, friendly venue to practice your Welsh.

Visual Impairment Breconshire: (Every 2nd and 4th Wednesday in the month) 1.30 – 3.30pm.

Watton Presbyterian Schoolroom. Contact 01874 624949.

The Mothers Union: (1st Wednesday in the month) 2pm.

The Diocesan Centre, Cathedral Close, Brecon. New members welcome. Although called a “Mothers Union” you do not have to be a mother to join; single, married or divorced, all are welcome. Contact 01874 636390.

Rainbow Guides (For girls aged 5 & 6): (term time only). 5pm.

Cobbles Coffee Shop. Contact Pam Martin 07976 797107.

Beacons Netball Club:4 – 5.30pm years 7, 8 & 9. 5.30 – 7pm year 10 and older. Brecon Leisure Centre. £3 on the night or reduced fee for the term. First training session free. All abilities welcome.

Contact Margaret Nuttall, Coach 01597 840420.

Brecon Women in Business: (first Wednesday of the month) 5.30pm at The George Hotel, Brecon.

Contact Johanna 01874 625994 or Janet 01874 611467.

Brecon Business Club: (meets

What’s on: during the week on the 2nd Wednesday of each month) 6pm at The Clarence Inn, Brecon. The meetings give opportunity to network with each other and “showcase” their businesses.

Key note speakers are invited to share their expertise. Contact www.breconbusinessclub.org.

Velo Hay Cycle Club: 6pm.

Drover Cycles, Forest Road, Hay. All welcome. Contact 01497 821134 or visit Drover Cycles Facebook page for details of rides.

Slimming World: 6.30pm at Glangrwyney Village Hall, Crickhowell Road. Contact Joan 01873 812053.

The Alternative Business Club: (Alternate Wednesdays from 12th June) 7pm. The White House Inn, Sennybridge. Meet and chat with people who are like minded and interested in helping other people and their businesses by networking. This first meeting is free so come and see what’s going on. After this first meeting it will only cost £5.

Contact 01874 636986.

Samba Brecon: 7 – 9pm. Felindre Village Hall. Samba Brecon is a lively, friendly community percussion band, always learning and playing new Afro-Brazilian rhythms on a weekly basis. New members and non-members are very welcome. No previous experience needed. First taster session is free.Tuition is provided. £4 per session, £3 concessions, under 16s are free but must be accompanied. Contact Glenn 07971 398727 or Catherine 01874 625422 or email sambabrecon@yahoo.co.uk.

Gwent & PowysArmy Cadet Force: 7 – 9pm at The ACF Ctr, Conway St, Brecon LD3 7EU. Ages 12 (Yr 8 High School) – 18yrs looking for a new exciting, fun and challenging activity. Cadets take part in a huge variety of challenging

& fun pursuits such as Military Training, Sports, Adventurous Training, Community based activities and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. We aim to inspire young people to achieve success in life, make the most of their abilities and develop the qualities to be a good citizen. Contact 01873 813756. www.armycadets.com.

The Brecon Singers – Rehearsals: 7.30 – 9.30pm. Y Neuadd Goffa, Christ College, Brecon. Join us if you love to sing and can commit regularly to rehearsals in Brecon. No auditions required.

Visit www.breconsingers.com.

Contact 01874 658332.

Brecon Racketeers (badminton): 8 – 10pm at Brecon Leisure Centre. Contact 01874 623677.

Thursday Probus Club of Brecon: 10am at The Castle of Brecon Hotel.

Rob’s No Worry Yoga: 12.30 – 1.30pm. Subud Centre, Brecon.

Classes suitable for beginners to experienced. £4 per session. Contact 01874 638810 or 07748 568402.

Brecon U3A: (Term time only) Morning session 10.30am. Afternoon sessions at 1.15pm & 2.30pm, each for one hour. Studio, Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. Coffee available from 10.00am. Lectures on any one of a wide variety of topics. New members are always welcome. Contact Secretary, Jean Hosie 01874 610340, e-mail: jhosie@btinternet.com Raven Drama: 5.30 – 7pm (Term time only). Llangorse Village Hall.

Age 7–14yrs. Contact Lynn Clausen 07949 329561.

Gwernyfed Ladies RugbyTraining: 6.45 – 8pm at Gwernyfed Rugby Club,Talgarth. If you’re looking for something fun, challenging and exciting to do, then come along.

No experience is required.

Brecon Youth Club: 7 – 9.30pm

(term time) at BreconYouth Centre, Cradoc Road. Activities: Arts and crafts, cookery, pool, dance, air hockey, darts, music room, IT suite.

Age Group: 11-25. Contact Rhodri Jones (Senior Area Worker) on 01874 622658.

Short Mat Bowls: 7pm. Trallong Hall. Please come and join a small, friendly group playing Short Mat Bowls on an informal basis. Contact Alan Bloss 01874 636125.

Slimming World: 7pm at St David’s Hall, Bailihelig Road, Llanfaes, Brecon.

Contact Shelley 01874 622846 or 07980 259638.

Club Night: 7.30pm. The Globe at Hay. Home to a rich variety of groups and societies. Contact 01497 821762.

Brecon & Glanusk Explorer Scouts: 7.45 – 9pm during school (term time). We provide scouting for 14-18 year-olds, meeting either in Crickhowell or Brecon (lifts are usually available). As well as traditional scouting activities we also take part in many other activities, including the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. We are a friendly group, and newcomers are more than welcome to come along and try us out. You can get a flavour of what we get up to by visiting our website http://breconexplorers.co.uk.

Contact us via the website, or email dai@breconexplorers.co.uk.

Friday Art group for the over 60s’: 2 – 4pm at the Youth Centre, Cradoc Rd, Brecon. Any level or ability. Any medium. Professional tutor. Contact Geraldine White 01874 610415 or Eleanor Sherwood 01874 623937.

Brecon Bouncers: 4 – 5.45pm at Brecon Leisure Centre. Trampoline activities.

Contact Sue Goodhead

What’s on: during the week / month 01874 623677.

Friday Live: 8pm. The Globe at Hay. Fantastic live entertainment.

Comedy, music and more.

Contact 01497 821762.

SATURDAY Breconshire Local & Family History Society – Assistance on Family History Research: (Every third Saturday in the month) Mornings. Brecon Library. No appointments needed, just drop in for one-to-one advice.

Shenanigans: 8pm. The Globe at Hay. The best party for miles.

Live bands and DJ’s every week.

Contact 01497 821762.

Sunday Services at Penyrheol Baptist Church: (Every 4th Sunday in the month) 3pm. Contact 01874 711061.

Llangynidr Farmers Market: (Last Sunday of the month only).

DURING THE MONTH Saturday 30th November Christmas Fair – Beacons Farm Shop & Welsh Venison Centre: 9am – 5pm. Welsh Venison Centre, Middlewood, Bwlch, Brecon, LD3 7HQ. Contact 01874 730929.

Hay-on-Wye Winter Food Festival: 10am – 4pm. The Memorial Car Park, Hay. Free entrance.

Nearly New Sale – Brecon Breastfeeding Support (Bibs): 10am -1pm. Bishop Bevan Hall, Brecon. Admission £1.

Saturday 30th November and Sunday 1st December Art at No.10 – Christmas Show: 10.30am – 5pm Saturday, 11am – 4pm Sunday. 10 The Struet, Brecon, LD3 7LL. Contact 01874 638949.

Sunday 1st December Hay Does Vintage presents – “Have yourself a Very Vintage

Christmas”: The Market Square and Buttermarket, Hay. Entrance £1 (children free). Contact 01497 820733.

Llangors Country Christmas Market: 10am – 1pm. Llangors Youth & Community Centre. A wide selection of food and craft stalls. Contact Mike Featherstone 01874 658257.

Monday 2nd December Brecon Film Society presents: “Madame De…..”: 7.15 for 7.30pm.

Coliseum Cinema, Brecon. A true great,Max Ophüls’s 1953 film is erotic, gripping, elegant and mysterious.

Contact Judith Fitton 01874 623166.

See article on page 32.

Tuesday 3rd December “The Journey of the Magi:1700Years of the Three Kings” – Brecknock Decorative and Fine Art Society: 2.30pm. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon.

From the earliest days of Christianity, the story of Caspar, Melchior and Balthazar has fascinated story-tellers and artists alike. Who were they and where did they come from?

What is their connection with the cities of Cologne and Ravenna. The Right Reverend Dr Christopher Herbert will answer these questions by tracing the way in which artists have chosen to represent the Magi in this illustrated lecture. Dr Herbert was ordained in 1967, enthroned as Bishop of St Albans in 1996 and retired in 1996. He is an established authority on medieval Christian art and has lectured widely on the subject. Membership of Society £40.

Visitors welcome, £7.50 per lecture.

Contact Deborah Cogger 01874 625679 or www.bdfas.org.uk.

Wednesday 4th – Sunday 8th December Aladdin: Theatr Brycheiniog.

Contact 01874 611622. See advert on page 29.

Thursday 5th December Brecon Cathedral Christmas

Tree Festival: 9.30am – 8.30pm.

Brecon Cathedral. 6pm Choral Evensong, 7.15pm Aberhonddu & District Male Choir. Free entrance. Contact 01874 623857.

See advert on page 33.

Thursday 5th – Monday 9th December Brecon Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival: Brecon Cathedral.

Free entrance. Contact 01874 623857. See advert on page 33.

Friday 6th December Brecon Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival: 9.30am – 8.30pm.

Brecon Cathedral. 6pm Choral Evensong, 7.15pm Talgarth Male Voice Choir. Free entrance.

Contact 01874 623857. See advert on page 33.

Friday Live – Castalia String Quartet: 8pm. The Globe at Hay. Contact 01497 821762. See advert on page 20.

Saturday 7th December Christmas Fayre – Talgarth and District Regeneration Group: 10am – 3pm. Town Hall & Square, Talgarth. Contact Nicola Willis 01874 713166. See advert on page 13.

Myddfai Christmas Craft Fair: 10am – 4pm. Myddfai Community Hall & Visitor Centre.There will be a fantastic range of gifts, crafts, cards and local produce, tombola, cake stall, games, quizzes and much more.

Free entry. Come and enjoy the freshly made, festive refreshments on offer in the café. Reservations of stalls available. Contact 01550 720449 or email les@myddfai.org.

In a New Light – 3D Animation: Theatr Brycheiniog. Free entry.

Contact 01874 611622. See advert on page 29.

Brecon Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival: 9.30am – 6pm.

Brecon Cathedral. 1pm Dan & Laura Curtis Concert. Free entrance. Contact 01874 623857.

What’s on: during the month / next month See advert on page 33.

Shenanigans – Bristol Afrobeat Project + DJ Aubrey Fry: 8pm.

The Globe at Hay. From £8.

Contact 01497 821762. See advert on page 20.

Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th December Penpont Christmas Fair: 10am – 5pm. Penpont (4 miles west of Brecon on A40). Variety of stalls and refreshments. Contact 01874 636202. See advert on page 8.

Sunday 8th December Brecon Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival: 12.30 – 6pm.

Brecon Cathedral. 8am Holy Eucharist, 11am Choral Eucharist, 3.30pm Choral Evensong. Free entrance. Contact 01874 623857.

See advert on page 33.

Monday 9th December Brecon Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival: 9.30am – 9pm.

Brecon Cathedral. 7pm Rotary carols with The Cathedral Choir.

Free entrance. Contact 01874 623857. See advert on page 33.

The Rotary Club of Brecon presents “The Christmas Singalong”: 7.30pm. Brecon Cathedral.With Brecon Cathedral Choir and you! Free admission, with a collection for the Cathedral Choir. See article on page 16.

Wednesday 11th December Brecon Poetry Group – Christmas festivities: 7.30pm. The Three Horseshoes, Llanfaes. In addition to dining, please bring along a poem on the subject ‘Saint Jude’. Advance booking necessary. Contact John Harries 01874 622874.

The Nutcracker – Ballet Theatre UK: Theatr Brycheiniog. Contact 01874 611622. See advert on page 29.

Friday 13th December Gypsy Fire Quartet: Theatr Brycheiniog. Contact 01874

611622. See advert on page 29.

Friday Live – The Company of Fools: 8pm. The Globe at Hay. Donation Entry. Contact 01497 821762. See advert on page 20.

Saturday 14th December Brecknock Farmers Market – Christmas Market: 9.30am – 2pm. Brecon Market Hall.

Contact 07805 375636. See advert on page 9.

Shenanigans – WubWubWub: 8pm. The Globe at Hay. From £3. Contact 01497 821762. See advert on page 20.

Pendyrus Male Choir: Theatr Brycheiniog. Contact 01874 611622. See advert on page 29.

Sunday 15th December Scrooge – Image Musical Theatre: Theatre Brycheiniog. Contact 01874 611622. See advert on page 29.

Monday 16th December Brecon Singers Christmas Concert: 6pm. St Mary’s Church, Brecon. It will include carols (join in with your favourites) and seasonal readings by young and older members of the community.

There will be a raffle and local food and crafts for sale. All monies raised will go to St Mary’s Supper Club. Tickets £7.50 (Under 18s voluntary donation) including refreshments. Contact 01874 658332. See article on page 5.

Tuesday 17th December Jazz in the Bar – ‘Spirit of Melly’, Special Jazz and Blues celebration: 8pm. ‘Brecon Jazz Bar’, Theatr Brycheiniog, Canalside, Brecon LD3 7EW. Li Harding (vocals), the Gary (‘Amigos’) Phillips Trio and Paul Munnery (trombone), with kind support from the George Melly Sculpture appeal. Join us for pre-concert buffet supper, Lansdowne Hotel, £5 per person.

Entrance £6 on the door – Friendly atmosphere, raffle, all welcome.

Contact 01874 611622.

Friday 20th December Friday Live – Alan McGee’s 359 Music: 8pm. The Globe at Hay. From £4. Contact 01497 821762.

See advert on page 20.

Saturday 21st December Christmas with The Village Quire and Phil Smith: 7.30pm.The Globe at Hay. From £6.50. Contact 01497 821762. See advert on page 20.

Peter Karrie – Christmas Cracker with Santa’s Grotto: Theatr Brycheiniog. Contact 01874 611622. See advert on page 29.

Sunday 22nd December Brecknock Farmers Market – Christmas Market: 9.30am – 2pm. Brecon Market Hall.

Contact 07805 375636. See advert on page 9.

Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th December Christmas Music Village @ The George: 8pm. The George Hotel, Brecon. Raising money for Walk on Wales. Contact 01874 623421. See advert on page 27.

Tuesday 31st December The WubWubWub NYE Party: 8pm. The Globe at Hay. From £10. Contact 01497 821762. See advert on page 20.

Saturday 4th January New Year Birdwatch: Llangors Lake. Details in events diary at www.brecknockwildlifetrust.org. uk. See article on page 28.

Monday 6th January Brecon Speakers – Debate on the motion “That Music is the Food of Love”: 7.30pm. The Three Horseshoes, Llanfaes.

Celebrate Twelfth Night by coming along and supporting Brecon Speakers in fierce verbal conflict wit. Teams from Cardiff and Newport. Contact John Harries 01874 622874 or Mike Douse at MJDouse@gmail.com

What’s on: during next month Brecon Film Society presents: “The Salt of Life”: 7.15 for 7.30pm.

Coliseum Cinema, Brecon.

Contact Judith Fitton 01874 623166. See article on page 32.

Tuesday 7th January “Ewenny Pottery: Potteries, Potters and Pots” – Brecknock Decorative and Fine Art Society: 2.30pm.Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. Ieuan Evans will trace the history of the pottery industry in the Ewenny area and illustrate the subject with examples of the work of individual potteries and potters. Ieuan is a native of Carmarthenshire and has had a career in education in agriculture, becoming Head of Department of Agriculture, Horticulture, Construction and Engineering at Breconshire College of Further

Education. He is a collector of South Wales ceramics, pottery and porcelain and is the co-author, with his wife, of a book on Ewenny Pottery. Membership of Society £40.

Visitors welcome, £7.50 per lecture.

Contact Deborah Cogger 01874 625679 or www.bdfas.org.uk.

Thursday 9th January

Theatr Brycheiniog, Canalside, Brecon LD3 7EW. Outstanding guitar (Latin, swing) rhythms, with Ian Cooper on double bass and Phill Redfox O’Sullivan on drums – a great start to the new year! Friendly atmosphere, raffle, all welcome. Contact 01874 611622.

Brecon Political and Theological Discussion Group: 7.30pm. The Three Horseshoes, Llanfaes.Talk and discussion on ‘The Arms Trade’ and the campaign against it by Jonathan Morgan. Contact John Harries 01874 622874 or Mike Douse at MJDouse@gmail.com

Are you are involved in any local classes or events, please get in touch with the Local Beacon. If you are a non-profit making your listing will appear in this section free of charge. For profit making companies there will be a small charge.

Tuesday 14th January

Please email lisamarie@ localbeacon.co.uk to find out more.

Jazz in the Bar – Will Barnes Trio: 8pm. ‘Brecon Jazz Bar’,

Have you got a local event or class? If so, please email: lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk Deadline for copy – 14th of the month prior to publication

Christmas gift ideas

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts - 51 -

FOR SALE Polly Pocket furniture. Car, clothes and accessories. £5. Tel 07815534541 or 01497 820238.

Girls 9-12 months Little White Company outfit. Pink cord dress, white bodysuit and 2 pairs of tights – a beautiful outfit. Brand new, all boxed up, would make a perfect gift. Cost £50. Looking for £25.

01544 327716.

Cub Scout sweatshirt 32” chest. Excellent condition. £6. 07815534541 or 01497 820238.

Traditional Welsh costume (skirt, top, shawl, apron). Fit 8-10 yrs. Excellent condition. £6. 07815534541 or 01497 820238.

Monsoon skirt. Aged 8-10 yrs. Various shades of green with beautiful embodied flower design. £5. 07815 534541 or 01497 820238.

Duplo Lego. 130ish pieces (in cardboard box – bit damaged). Basic bricks with some animal pieces added. £6.

07815 534541 or 01497 820238.

Girls Bike. Age 6-9 yrs. Wheel size 17”. £18.

07815534541 or 01497 820238. izip electric bicycle. 7 speed. vgc. £250. 07733 061740.

Wicker Picnic Hamper. Set of four plates and mugs and cutlery. £7 ono. 01874 624732.

Swan Food Processor. With all accessories and instruction book. Perfect condition £10 ono.

01874 624732.

Pull along shopping trolley (never used). £8 ono. 01874 624 732.

Mirror with patterned 6 cms wood frame.

Size 103 cms by 73 cms. £15. 01874 712297.

Myers Myerpaedic 4 ft wide bed. vgc. Two storage drawers. £50. 01874 712297.

Garden Gear Zoom Hedge Trimmer. Used only once. £25. 01874 712297.

Mele Jewellery box. £10. 01874 712297.

Medium sized chiminea cover. New. £5.

01874 712297.

2 x covered mattresses in good condition.

6ft long x 2ft 9in wide x 5in deep so slightly smaller than a standard single mattress but could fit under a standard single bed as a useful spare! £5 each. 01982 560312.

FUJIFILM Digital camera. FINEPIX Z300. 10.OMP / 5 x OPTICAL ZOOM /. 3.0” TOUCH-SCREEN LCD. Never used £40. Call 01874 712026.

BED IN A CHEST. Single fold down bed contained in a Frame to look like a chest of drawers when not in use.

Light and manoeuvrable, on castors. Good for Xmas guests! £50 call 01874 712026.

MASSAGE TABLE. Cream leather look. Portable, incudes nylon cover/bag. Raisable head board. No face hole. £50.

Designer ‘Elegance’ peep-toe shoes. Size 6, and clutch bag with silver chain. Ruffle and gemstones detail on front of shoe and on bag. Grey/pewter colour. Shoes £28, Bag £20 or £45 for both. Bought for wedding but not used.

01497 821626. 01874 712026.

KENWOOD CHEF FOOD MIXER. MODEL A.701A. Usual attachments + instruction / recipe booklet. Good condition, very little used. £50. 01874 625749.

WANTED Old full length telegraph poles. To make horse jumps. 07796 622683.

recruitment Freelance Sales Executive for Local Beacon. The ideal candidate will be part of the Brecon community. He or she will need to contact local businesses to offer advertising space and to liaise with the community to keep articles interesting and informative. 20-30 hours per month. Send your CV or any questions about this position to lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk by Tuesday 31st December 2013.

Are you Mature, reliable, careful and trustworthy?. If so and you can deliver to the same address in Greenwich SE9 every time and to the same address near Hereford/Hay every time then we can pay you £10 per item (usually 3-8 items). We can largely fit in with your schedule when you are already going to/from London. Light lifting is involved. Must have reliable own transport. Call Ben on 01497 820134.

Email lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk by 14th of the month, to get your items listed for free.

USEFUL NUMBERS Brecon Medical Group Practice...... 01874 622121 Brecon Advice Centre....................... 01874 624595 Dyfed-Powys Police................................................101 National Grid Gas (Gas Leaks)..............0800 111999 Powys Citizens’ Advice Bureau........ 0845 601 8421 Powys County Council (General Enquiries) 01597 827 460 / 0845 602 7030 RSPCA.................................................. 0300 1234 999 Scottish Power..................................... 08452 722424 Welsh Water........................................ 08000 520130 Western Power Distribution...............08000 520400 Recycle! If you have read this months issue of the Local Beacon and have no further need for it – recycle it!

Recycling means you could pass it on to someone else who may also like to read it, drop the magazine off at a community pick up point so another person could pick it up . . . failing that, put it in a recycling bin!

To advertise in the Local Beacon tel. 07971 446632 email. lisamarie@localbeacon.co.uk - 52 -

Local Landscapes

Calendar

Please mention the Local Beacon when responding to adverts

W a l l e d G a r d e n Treberfydd Tel 01874 730169 Open Daily 10am to 4pm Walled Garden Treberfydd Llangasty, Brecon, Powys Wales LD3 7PX Mincepies available Illustration by Rae Gervis

The Walled Garden in December Christmas Wreaths – natural decorations Presents – and gift vouchers for gardeners Edible Hedging – bare root mixed hedging of Walnut, Hazel, Crab apple, elder, blackthorn, Hawthorn and rose Fruit Trees – damson, apple and Pear Apple Juice – made locally with Welsh apples Perennials and Shrubs – grown in Wales

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Beautiful old fashioned plant nursery set in the Cadw listed walled kitchen garden of an 1850’s Victorian Gothic house on the south side of Llangors Lake. directions: Just 2 miles off the a40 – from brecon turn left after Peterstone Court or from abergavenny turn right at the War Memorial in bwlch then left towards Pennorth.

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