The Community Mag - June 21 by Phil Rowe

June 2021

Covering Ystradgynlais, Ystalyfera, Abercraf, Coelbren, Crynant, Banwen, Dyffryn Cellwen, Onllwyn, Seven Sisters, Glynneath, Cwmgwrach, Resolven, Cwmtwrch, Cwmllynfell, Cwmgiedd, Gurnos & Godre’rgraig,

Find us online at

www.communitymag.co.uk

07961 937238 E-mail: mail@communitymag.co.uk

photograph supplied by Carl Ryan, www.blackplanetphotography.com 1

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Editor’s Foreword Glad to see Wales kick the last remnants of the hate-driven goonery out of Senedd, other than that I can’t say I have much appetite for the world of politics at the moment. I know that some of you may breathe a sigh of relief at reading that, but here’s my problem; after more than a year at home there’s not much to write about! The real problem is that Wales coming to our senses on those single issue parties is a seemingly rare glimmer of hope in our world. Bozo Johnson has again allowed another variant into and around the country, apparently not to upset India during trade negotiations. If only they had spent a ludicrous amount of money on a track and trace system, maybe they’d be in control of the situation. It is only arrogance that leads them to believe that they can make claims such as “there will be no more lockdowns”. Let’s hope, for everyone’s sakes, that the vaccination programme limits the effects of that spread. Flights are still coming from and going to India as I write this, despite the Tories’ claims to the contrary. The genocide being carried out by Israel is heart-breaking and so far beyond any mitigation, no matter what the claim. The regime is evil incarnate. Do not confuse the Israeli regime with the Jewish religion, either. Not only is it wrong to do so – their greed and inhumanity is not based on any religious tenet – but allowing them the comfort of hiding behind a religion is more than they deserve. Last week, I read a Twitter entry from Palestinian mother Eman Basher that read: “Tonight, I put the kids to sleep in our bedroom. So that when we die, we die together and no one would live to mourn the loss of one another.” There is nothing anti-Semitic about decrying these crimes against humanity. The entire regime should be hauled before The Hague and dealt with accordingly. The Israeli regime has spread it’s tentacles throughout Western democracy, and ‘Friends Of Israel’ sub-organisations collect members and fund and lobby MP’s offices in ALL of our main political parties. Not only should this not be allowed, it should be considered espionage – an outrage. Only a few years ago an agent of the Israeli regime was filmed offering a million pounds to fund the campaign against Jeremy Corbyn. Notice that all claims of anti-Semitism in Labour disappeared the moment Corbyn stepped down – itself a ludicrous notion that should anger anyone who wants honesty in our political parties. I’m half expecting accusations of anti-Semitism myself after this one, but nothing could be more anti-Semitic than deliberately trying to implicate the religion in this desecration of humanity to score points against those who protest. Shame on every government that refuses to step up and step in to protect those poor people in Palestine.

Phil

COVID 19 STATEMENT: We are currently in an ever changing situation in dealing with the

virus. Please remember that each of our advertisers are also being affected by this, and new restrictions may mean that their advertised service is restricted in some way. This is frustrating for all concerned, please be polite and understanding with the businesses you deal with. Information contained in the magazine may no longer be accurate by the time you read it. If you want to write to the magazine our address is: Community Mag, 8 Darren Road, Ystalyfera, Swansea SA9 2HP. You can also e-mail us at mail@communitymag.co.uk. DEADLINE FOR JULY 2021 EDITION - JUNE 14th 3

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1. Store part of scarce bee habitat (7) 5. Fundamental meaning in hypo intrigue (5) 8. Neat bicycle antique, essentially (5) 9. Lacking respect in slim pie tyrant (7) 10. Amnesty for equivalent Spanish gentleman (6) 11. Mixed up a bit to catch something (4) 13. Discovered quality in recital entrant (6) 15. Toy stereo found in bed (6) 18. Fiasco deep in computer instruction (4) 19. Struggle with bottle opener replaced by animals with can opener (6) 22. Verify historic period is ordinary (7) 23. Eg our confused villain (5) 24. Australian state in short and two thirds of a number makes sense (5) 25. We ease underwater tangle (7)

Answers on page 66

DOWN

1. Statement sounds like nobility (7) 2. Rearranged inexpensive peach (5) 3. Unwitting confusion, no rating (8) 4. Scribbled it or rewrites it, essentially (6) 5. 16th Greek and 17th Hebrew make music (4) 6. Confusing nice tax is imprecise (7) 7. Sultry starlet finds a date (5) 12. Disorder, this year (8) 14. Fifty Roman snakes climb them (7) 16. Adhered to tussled hair (7) 17. Light touch in car essential (6) 18. Monotonous sound in church anthem (5) 20. This bird landed in 1969 (5) 21. Likelyhood of finding fabric in umbrella certain (4)

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We Are Open. Ystradgynlais Library has reopened to the public after the last lockdown due to Covid 19 pandemic. We are open to borrowing books on a Monday and Thursday between 10am and 4pm and a Friday between 10am and 1pm for Order and Collect, return of books and browsing. We have computer access on a Tuesday which is bookable in one-hour slots by appointment 01639 845353. Order and Collect has been running since the start of the pandemic and if you feel that you do not want to come into the library just yet or are physically unable to or were previously a Powys Mobile library user you can request a collection of books to be delivered to your door by one of our volunteers. Or you can pick up a collection of books with your name on in the library foyer. You can call into the library on the days we are open if you require any photocopying. This also applies to children’s books. We are open on the first Saturday of the month for family browsing this needs to be booked in advance on 01639 845353. All returned books are placed in isolation for 72hrs and then disinfected before being put back on the shelves for future borrowing. We look forward to seeing you soon. Jan Poole 11

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COVID-19 CASES HAVE DROPPED BUT COUNTY’S CONTACT TRACERS ARE STILL BUSY Covid-19 case rates in Powys have dropped – to 7.6 per 100,000 people over seven days (up to 12 May) – but the county’s contact tracers are still extremely busy. The teams employed by Powys County Council (PCC), with funding from the Welsh Government, are still calling residents who have tested positive, and their close contacts, to advise them to self-isolate, but they are now also contacting travellers arriving at Cardiff Airport and are making and receiving calls for the mass

vaccination programme. Between 9 June 2020 and 11 May 2021, they dealt with 4,427 people in Powys who had tested positive for Covid-19 and 13,766 of their close contacts. And during the same period dealt with 1,455 people from other parts of Wales who had tested positive and 813 of their close contacts. * Since 27 January this year, up until the end of March, when shielding for clinically vulnerable residents of Wales was paused, the Powys Test, Trace, Protect teams also made 12,834 welfare calls and between 27 January and 11 May answered 48,506 incoming mass vaccination calls for Powys Teaching Health Board (PTHB). And between 7 April and 11 May they contacted 3,269 travellers arriving in Wales, from overseas, to give advice on self-isolation and testing measures. Cllr Graham Breeze, PCC’s Portfolio Holder for Corporate Governance, Engagement and Regulatory Services, said: “Thanks to Powys residents sticking to the rules, the work of our Test, Trace, Protect service and the rapid pace of the mass vaccination programme being delivered by our partners, PTHB, we have seen the case rates for Covid-19 drop dramatically in the county. However, this has not meant our contact tracing teams have had nothing to do, as they have been re-tasked to other work that also supports the well-being of our residents: firstly, making welfare calls and then more recently supporting the mass vaccination programme and checking on travellers arriving in Wales. “Our Test, Trace, Protect staff have made a significant contribution to keeping our residents safe and will be needed, unfortunately, for some time to come as our Health Service partners continue with the mass vaccination programme, while restrictions are eased, and with the assessment of the threat posed by new variants of Covid-19.” 13

Jennifer Melly Law 45 Alfred Street Neath SA11 1EH

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Spring is a very good time of year to review our finances as the tax year has come to an end and changes are taking place. At Jennifer Melly law we provide a holistic service and our aim is to assist you in putting in place any legal paperwork as well as helping you to consider what you and your families needs may be for the future and to help you plan for whatever lies ahead. Making your Will There are still a huge number of people who have still not put wills in place and it is so important to make sure your wishes are put into effect after your days, as it will be too late to make your wishes known after you’re gone. Putting this in place during your lifetime means you can decide who receives your estate, make gifts to charities, appoint guardians for young children and decide who sorts out your affairs after your days i.e. you can choose your executors. Even for those who have prepared wills it is important to review them regularly and as circumstances change. Powers of Attorney It is also important to consider how you are going to be looked after during your lifetime, particularly in the event of illness or accident. Lasting Powers of Attorney can be prepared in order to legally appoint a person or persons to manage your finances and make decisions for you if you are unable to do so yourself. If you were to lose the capacity to manage your own finances in the future and no Lasting Power of Attorney was in place then an application would need to be made to the Court of Protection to appoint someone to manage your finances for you, and this may not be the person you would have chosen yourself. These applications can be lengthy and expensive and can be avoided by planning ahead. Long Term Care Many people, at some stage will require residential or nursing home care. It is sensible to consider and plan for how your care would be paid for in future. Jennifer Melly Law can also help and advise those who are already in a care home setting on what funding they are entitled to and the cost of care. Our offices are based in Neath and Cardiff and we also offer home visits for those who are unable to come in to see us. Our staff are friendly and approachable and aim to put our clients at ease whilst providing a professional and expert service. For more information regarding any of the above contact Jennifer Melly Law on 01639 630057

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We’d like to say a huge THANK YOU to all the local people, businesses and organisations who have donated to us so generously. In the year since April 2020 we’ve provided 709 food packages, with food for 2119 people – that’s over 31,000 items of food! We’ve extended our opening hours to make it easier for people to make donations: Monday 10.30am-1.30pm Donations & collections Tuesday 6pm-7pm Donations only Wednesday 10.30am-1.30pm Donations & collections Thursday 6pm-7pm Donations only Friday 10.30am-1.30pm Donations & collections Saturday 10.30am-12.00pm Donations only We accept donations of dried / tinned food, toiletries, dental & feminine hygiene products – check our Facebook page for lists of things we’re running short of.

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FOR JUNE 2021

by Jonathan Powell, Swansea Sound Weatherman

Photograph by Jeanine Bishopp. If you’d like to see your photo on The Weather Outlook send it to phil@communitymag.co.uk

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After an at times indifferent May, June promises some dry, warm, possibly very warm weather, along with cloudless blue skies and gentle southerly winds. The month may well start off on a changeable note, but as we ease into summer, there is the prospect that as June develops, high pressure or a sequence of highs may anchor down long enough to provide us with some lengthy spells of pleasant weather. Whilst the risk of thunderstorms may become apparent and in due course probably bring any fine run to a climatic end, June could offer conditions not unlike the periods of settled weather experienced during summer 2020. For balance, we are unlikely to have the weather all our own way during June with lower temperatures and rain at times, but nevertheless, the month is expected to be drier than average, with temperatures above the average. Jonathan Powell, Monday May 10th 2021

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Email: phil@communitymag.co.uk or write to Community Mag, 8 Darren Road, Ystalyfera, Swansea, SA9 2HP

Phil: Being a bit of a pedant I pick these things up: In your ‘Ed.’s Foreword’ to the Community Mag for May, you mention firing ‘a shot over the bough of English parliament...’ The expression, I think you mean is ‘a shot across the bow’ coming from the naval custom if firing a canon across the bow of a ship not flying identifying flags. Just thought you might enjoy this snippet. A Loyal Reader, Cher

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VACCINATION PROGRAMME GOING As we go to press, the Covid-19 vaccination campaign in Swansea Bay is ahead of schedule, with routine appointments for first doses going out to people in the 20s. GP surgeries have also been very busy, working alongside the mass vaccination centres at the Bay Field Hospital, Margam Orangery and Canolfan Gorseinon giving people their second doses, so they are fully protected. Swansea Bay University Health Board is well on target to meet the July deadline for vaccinating adults, but of course, as ever, this is subject to vaccine supplies. Across Swansea and Neath Port Talbot well over 350K doses have been administered, including over 100K second doses (as of middle of May.) But we don’t want anyone to miss out. If you’re over 30 and haven’t had your first dose yet, or have been offered one, turned it down – but now changed your mind – it’s not too late. Please go to the health board’s website www.sbuhb.nhs.wales, look for the vaccination page, and click on the link to join the reserve list. Covid vaccination and pregnancy Vaccination is now recommended for all pregnant women at any time in your pregnancy. While pregnant women were not included in vaccine trials, which is common practice, real-world data from the USA shows that around 90,000 pregnant women have now been vaccinated, mainly with the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, without any safety concerns being raised. This is why the UK’s Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation changed their guidance. We also know that pregnant women can become more seriously ill with Covid, particularly in the late stages of pregnancy. And in pregnant women with symptomatic Covid 19 the risk of pre-term birth is increased by two to three times. If you’re pregnant and want to talk to a midwife about the vaccination, here are their contact details: • North SBU.NorthMidwives@wales.nhs.uk 07766 466892 • South SBU.southmidwives@wales.nhs.uk 07766 466891 • East SBU.EastMidwives@wales.nhs.uk 07971 719632 • West SBU.WestMidwives@wales.nhs.uk 07766 466893 • Afan SBU.afanmidwives@wales.nhs.uk 07581 569882 • Nedd SBU.NorthMidwives@wales.nhs.uk 07815 779113

Restrictions easing May 17th saw Wales entering Level 2, with restrictions easing and indoor hospitality opening again. But please remember – time hasn’t yet been called on Covid-19. It’s still safer to be outside in the fresh air, so even though pubs and restaurants are now serving indoors, you may wish to think about socialising outside if you have the choice. Please strictly follow all the social distancing and hygiene advice at all times.

FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH First baby born in NHS is fully vaccinated Finally, we were delighted to fully vaccinate Aneira Thomas, who was the first baby born over 70 years ago, at the very start of the NHS. Aneira was named after the founder of the then-new National Health Service, Aneurin Bevan, and made headlines across the country when she arrived at one minute past midnight on 5th July, 1948, at Glanamman hospital in West Wales. The 72-year-old, who has anaphylaxis, has spent most of her adult life championing the NHS after doctors saved her life on eight occasions along with helping both her children overcome brain haemorrhages. Aneira, who went on to become a nurse, has now praised Swansea Bay UHB’s vaccination programme after receiving her second dose at its Mass Vaccination Centre in Canolfan, Gorseinon. She said: “I’ve just had my second jab and want to say thank you to everyone. “The staff at the vaccination centre were wonderful. They were very informative and kind. They know everyone is on pins initially, waiting to have the vaccine, so they are very reassuring. “It went very well although I lost sleep over having the vaccine initially because I suffer from a severe allergic reaction to various drugs. I thought deeply about it but decided I had to give it a try. “I also spoke to my GP and he assured me that I shouldn’t be allergic to this vaccine. He put my mind to rest and was proved to be right.” Keep up to day with local news about Covid-19 vaccinations, testing, other Coronavirus news by keeping an eye on Swansea Bay University Health Board’s website: www.sbuhb.nhs.wales and also search for Swansea Bay NHS on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

FREE ENHANCED MOTORCYCLIST RIDER SCHEME Motorcyclists are invited to sign up to a free enhanced riders training course to help improve their riding skills and the safety of Powys roads. Powys County Council’s Road Safety team are providing these courses free of charge to any motorcyclists who live in Powys or use Powys’ roads, with funding from the Welsh Government. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) Enhanced Rider Scheme is suitable for full motorbike licence holders who want to improve their riding skills, for those returning to riding after a break, riders who have just passed their test, people upgrading to a more powerful motorcycle and/or those who want to check their riding standard. The course consists of a short online theory session and a half-day practical onroad session (on a weekend) with an experienced trainer. There is no test, but riding will be assessed, and appropriate training given to each participant who, all being well, will receive a DVSA certificate of competence on completion of the scheme. Dates for up-coming courses are: • Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 June (Theory on the evening of 3 June) • Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 July (Theory on evening of 15 July) • Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 September (Theory on evening of 2 September) Spaces for these free courses are limited and fill up quickly. Please get in touch to reserve your places as soon as possible: 01597 826704 or gareth.evans@ powys.gov.uk “Keeping Powys roads safe is paramount” says Cllr Heulwen Hulme, Cabinet Member for Highways. “We appreciate that our large, expansive county, with its network of picturesque roads is a mecca for motorcyclists. Which is why we not only offer this course to all riders living in Powys, but also to all riders who use Powys’ roads. “Tourism plays an important role in the local economy in our beautiful and attractive county, and we welcome careful drivers and riders to enjoy our scenic roads, but we must all remember that road safety is paramount.

“We are lucky to have an experienced team of road safety officers within Powys County Council who work on many schemes and projects, including offering these weekend courses for motorcyclists wishing to improve their riding skills.”

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WHATEVER YOUR COMPUTER PROBLEM, WE CAN HELP Ever since I first started FCS in 2003, I have always believed that no problem is too small or too complex. Now, having moved to South Wales, I aim to continue that philosophy. So if you need a hand with a software issue, or you’d like a new PC built, I’m here to help.

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Ystradgynlais Volunteer Centre June 1st to 7th each year, is Volunteers Week. This is a time for organisations and charities to say thank you for the contribution made by millions of people across the UK, through volunteering. The last year has been an extremely difficult one for us all and we have been truly overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity that we have witnessed in the community. We would like to say a heartfelt Thank You to each and every one of our volunteers who have selflessly given of their time and energy to help those in greatest need. If you would like to find out more about volunteering opportunities, please contact us on 01639 845475, email us at yvcvolunteering@gmail.com or message us on Facebook.

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POETRY

Hi Phil,

The summer is coming and, despite stormy weather as I write, the lockdown is gradually being loosened and folks can go out and meet their friends. Once again we can indulge in whatever sport turns us on. Here is a poem about one such activity - the ineffable pleasure of angling. It’s been a fairly gruelling time for everyone and those who are fearless enough will flock to warm beaches abroad but, for many, reconnecting with all our loved ones is a joyful prospect and is all that we need to restore a sense of well-being. I hope you will like the following:

The Angler Green gruel, a bouillabaisse of weed and water, the fading sun drips olive oil on the ripples. Fish bob to taste the flavour they impart. A sudden current mixes the stream like a spoon’s turn; a leaping trout cuts the surface, a blade knifing the air, that spare second of other element excites it strangely. There, in a still corner, a pike unmoved by such aimless action, is sleepily bloated and satisfied: it took the bait without the hook. Above, two swans sail by, white quinqueremes of the chalk stream, pale oars ruffled, riffling the water. Then such traffic thins and as the fireball sun comes down to touch the pale horizon’s curve, there is a deepening calm. The angler at the edge of his watery domain feels his pulse quicken, now is his time.

With best wishes, Anna Cole

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VISITOR: SONG THRUSH WELSH NAME: BRONFRAITH June is the height of the breeding season for this garden favourite. Song Thrushes have two to four broods every year, but it is only the female who incubates the eggs and young; the male is still busy defending his territory through song. His song is made up of a series of phrases, many of which are repeated three times, and may contain human sounds such as alarms and telephones. The pauses between phrases allow the male to listen for any answering males in the vicinity. You may also hear a ‘tick’ sound not unlike the sound made by the wheel of a freewheeling bicycle. The male will only take an active part in bringing up the young once they have fledged. In a process known as ‘brood splitting’ the parents divide the young between them taking sole charge of the fledglings assigned to them. The Song Thrush is warm-brown in colour with arrow shaped spots on its front. It has a long-legged, upright stance, and is slightly smaller than a Blackbird. It often follows a series of quick hops with a short run, as if to prevent itself from overbalancing and falling over. Whilst Song Thrushes eat invertebrates, fruit and berries, they will also take seed that has fallen onto the ground below bird tables and feeders. When earthworms are difficult to find, you may be lucky and catch sight of a Song Thrush ‘opening’ a snail - using a hard surface as an anvil that it beats with a quick sideways flick of the head. They are the only British birds that have learned how to do this. Song Thrushes live, on average, 3 to 4 years. Only 20% of fledglings, and 60% of adults survive to breed the following season. Sadly, the Song Thrush has been in decline since the 1970’s, dropping by 50% over the years. They were once more common than Blackbirds but now there are around 12 Blackbirds for every Song Thrush in urban areas. Changes in farming practices, land drainage, woodland management and the use of slug-pellets (resulting in fewer snails) are all suggested as contributors to the poor survival rate of newly fledged birds. Despite this they are still regularly seen in around a third of British gardens during early Summer.

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The oldest known wild Song Thrush lived to be 13years and 9 months old! 35

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GOLDIES CYMRU WELCOMES £12,000 BOOST TO HELP PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA THROUGH MUSIC AND SONG The Goldies Cymru Charity is celebrating after receiving £12,000 to continue its musical services for people living with dementia. The money will enable the Cardiff-based charity to reach out through Songs and Smiles across South Wales for people suffering with dementia to support their wellbeing. The grant was received from Music for Dementia’s £500,000 Paul & Nick Harvey Fund, which was set up specifically to directly support musical activities for people with dementia*. ‘Goldies’ is planning to relaunch its fun daytime Sing&Smile sessions across South Wales in the Autumn for people living with dementia and introduce many new sessions. Music for Dementia is a national campaign calling for music to be made accessible for everyone living with dementia. Music has a valuable role to play in enhancing quality of life for people living with the condition, and their carers. Research and lived experiences show that it can help reduce the often-distressing symptoms of dementia, such as agitation, apathy and anxiety. Covid brought to a halt the live daytime sessions last March. These were then replaced with twice weekly GoldiesLive.com sessions through YouTube and Facebook. A monthly Welsh speaking version was added in May and hundreds enjoy singing and smiling on their sofas at home. The sessions also include gentle chair exercises, Bollywood dancing and much more. Grace Meadows, Programme Director, Music for Dementia, said: “We are so delighted to be able to support Goldies Cymru and others across the UK with a grant from the Paul & Nick Harvey Fund. Musical services have been severely impacted in the last year, meaning many people living with dementia and their carers have lost those important connections and special moments that only music can provide. “By directing the fund money towards community-based, musical services for people living with dementia and those that provide them, we are able to bring the joy of music into people’s lives wherever they are on their dementia journey.” Grenville Jones, founder of Goldies said: “This wonderful support from the Paul & Nick Harvey Fund will help us to reach out through music to brighten the lives of many people, those living with dementia and their carers. “You really can’t beat a good old fashioned singalong!” * This fund was made possible by a kind donation from The Hunter Foundation to Paul & Nick Harvey who passed the money to The Utley Foundation for Music for Dementia 39

GOLDIES CYMRU YN CROESAWU HWB £12,000 I HELPU POBL GYDA DEMENTIA DRWY GERDDORIAETH A CHANU Mae elusen Goldies Cymru yn dathlu ar ôl derbyn £12,000 i barhau ei wasanaethau cerddorol ar gyfer pobl sy’n byw gyda dementia. Bydd yr arian yn galluogi’r elusen, sy’n seiliedig yng Nghaerdydd, i ymestyn allan drwy Ganeuon a Gwenau ar draws De Cymru ar gyfer pobl sy’n dioddef gyda dementia i gefnogi eu llesiant. Derbyniwyd y grant gan Gronfa £500,00 Paul a Nick Harvey, Music for Dementia a sefydlwyd yn benodol i roi cefnogaeth uniongyrchol i weithgareddau cerddorol ar gyfer pobl gyda dementia*. Mae ‘Goldies’ yn bwriadu ail-lansio ei sesiynau Canu a Gwenu hwyliog yn ystod y dydd ar draws De Cymru yn yr hydref ar gyfer pobl sy’n byw gyda dementia a chyflwyno llawer o sesiynau newydd. Mae Music for Dementia yn ymgyrch ar draws y Deyrnas Unedig sy’n galw am i gerddoriaeth fod yn hygyrch i bawb sy’n byw gyda dementia. Mae gan gerddoriaeth rôl werthfawr i’w chwarae wrth wella ansawdd bywyd pobl sy’n byw gyda’r cyflwr, a’u gofalwyr. Mae ymchwil a phrofiadau byw yn dangos y gall helpu i ostwng symptomau dementia, tebyg i anesmwythder, diffyg diddordeb a phryder. Daeth y sesiynau byw i ben fis Mawrth diwethaf oherwydd Covid. Yn eu lle, cyflwynwyd sesiynau GoldiesLive.com ddwywaith yr wythnos drwy YouTube a Facebook. Ychwanegwyd fersiwn Gymraeg fisol ym mis Mai gyda channoedd yn mwynhau canu a gwenu ar eu cadeiriau gartref. Mae’r sesiynau hefyd yn cynnwys ymarferion ysgafn i’w gwneud ar gadair, dawnsio Bollywood a llawer mwy. Dywedodd Grace Meadows, Cyfarwyddwr Rhaglen, Music for Dementia: “Rydym mor falch i fedru cefnogi Goldies Cymru ac eraill ar draws y Deyrnas Unedig gyda grant o Gronfa Paul & Nick Harvey. Effeithiwyd yn ddifrifol ar wasanaethau cerddorol yn ystod y flwyddyn ddiwethaf, gan olygu fod llawer o bobl sy’n byw gyda dementia a’u gofalwyr wedi colli’r cysylltiadau pwysig ac enydau arbennig hynny na all ond cerddoriaeth eu rhoi. “Drwy gyfeirio arian y gronfa tuag at wasanaethau cerddorol seiliedig yn y gymuned ar gyfer pobl yn byw gyda dementia, a’r rhai sy’n eu darparu, gallwn ddod â llawenydd cerddoriaeth i fywydau pobl lle bynnag y maent arni ar eu taith dementia.” Ychwanegodd Grenville Jones, sefydlydd Goldies: “Bydd y gefnogaeth wych o Gronfa Paul & Nick Harvey yn ein helpu i ymestyn allan drwy gerddoriaeth i ddod â llawenydd i fywyd llawer o bobl, y rhai sy’n byw gyda dementia a’u gofalwyr. “Does dim byd i guro sesiwn cyd-ganu hen ffasiwn!”

*Mae’r gronfa yn bosibl oherwydd cyfraniad caredig gan Sefydliad Hunter i Paul a Nick Harvey a drosglwyddodd yr arian i Sefydliad Utley ar gyfer Music for Dementia.

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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

According to Greek mythology, who was the first woman on earth? In which film did the song ‘Bright Eyes’ appear? Which cartoon character said “Heavens to Murgatroyd”? Who plays the role of Turner in the film ‘Turner & Hooch’? Who cut off the tails of the Three Blind Mice? What was the first planet to be discovered by telescope in 1781? Dr Simon Campbell received a knighthood for the development of which drug? What item of clothing was named after its Scottish inventor? Who completed a 24hr TV marathon for Comic Relief? Which African country was formerly known as Abyssinia? Who originally had a hit with ‘When The Going Gets The Tough Get Going’? How many players on a volley ball team? In which US state is ‘Area 51’? What is the name of the Grinch’s dog? What fruit can also be a bird? Who played ‘Axel Foley’ in the ‘Beverley Hills Cop ‘ films? What whale will beach itself to catch its food? What was the dog’s name in ‘Garfield’? In what year did the Channel Tunnel open? Who was the star of the movies ‘The Bitch’ and ‘The Stud’? In bingo what number is known as the ‘Brighton Line’? In 2003 which Del Boy catchphrase was entered in the Oxford Dictionary? How many men have walked on the moon? Who is ‘Anthony Stark’s alter ego? Which item of dress was launched in the 60’s by Mr Fish, a fasion guru? What drink was advertised with the slogan “There’s a Humphrey about”? An ampersand is a printed symbol for what word? In what year was John Lennon assassinated? At the start of a game of chess a player has the choice of how many moves? ‘Blob recreation’ is an anagram of which British actor?

Now turn the page for the picture quiz. Answers are printed at the back of the magazine 43

DINGBATS - Can You Decipher Their Meaning? 1

ANSWERS ON PAGE 66

Allech chi FAETHU plentyn fel Harry? Rydym angen pobl leol i gynnig cartrefi cariadus i blant lleo.

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NEWYDDION YSGOL GYMRAEG YSTALYFERA Dysgu yn yr awyr agored yn yr Adran Gynradd

Mae’n disgyblion wedi bod yn mwynhau manteisio ar ddefnyddio’r awyr agored ymhellach yn ystod Tymor yr Haf. Braf iawn yw gweld gwynebau hapus ein disgyblion wrth weithio ar borjectau gwahanol tu allan i’r ystafell ddosbarth. Mae yna lu o weithgareddau wedi bod dros y cyfnod diwethaf i ddisgyblion y Cyfnod Sylfaen gan gynnyws sesiynau ‘Tai Chi’ i ddisgyblion y Meithrin a’r Derbyn fel rhan o’n rhaglen Iechyd a Lles; helfa lyfrau ‘Sali Mali’ i ddathlu diwrnod y llyfr; creu delweddau ar y buarth yn ymwneud â’r thema ar ddathliadau a mwynhau gweithgareddau amrywiol ar y cae i ddisgyblion. Rydym wedi sicrhau bod disgyblion yr Adran Iau hefyd yn cael cyfleoedd dysgu pellach yn yr awyr agored ac maent wedi mwynhau dod â’u welis yn wythnosol er mwyn manteisio ar ein cae hyfryd i ennill profiadau ychwanegol megis adeiladu cysgodfyedd; codi pebyll; gwylio a dysgu mwy am adar; creu siapiau Mathemategol o frigau a dail a chreu Celf gyda gwrthrychuau naturiol. Mae lles disgyblion yn flaenoriaeth i ni wedi cyfnod heriol drosben o ran y sefyllfa gyda COVID-19, a’n sicr mae’n gwaith awyr agored yn allweddol i hybu lles disgyblion. Mae’r dystiolaeth yn gadarn bod defnydd o fyd natur yn hybu lles meddwl yn fawr. Mae cynlluniau ar y gweill gennym ar gyfer dechrau casgliadau sbwriel gyda’n disgyblion fel ein bod yn cyfrannu unwaith eto yn bositif i’n cymuned leol.

NEWS FROM YSGOL GYMRAEG YSTALYFERA Learning in the outdoor area in the Primary Department Our pupils have been enjoying learning in the outdoor area during the Summer Term. It’s wonderful to see their happy faces as they take part in so many wonderful activities and projects outside of the classroom. There have been a wide variety of activities over the Term including ‘Tai chi’ sessions for our Nursery and Reception pupils as part of our Health and Wellbeing Curriculum; a book hunt for ‘Sali Mali’ books with foundation phase pupils as part of our celebration for World book day; creating images with chalk on the playground as part of learning on the theme of ‘Celebrations’, and enjoying various activities on the field. Pupils from the Junior Department have also had the opportunity to learn in our outdoor area and they have enjoyed bringing their wellies weekly in order that we can use the field for various activities including building shelters; erecting tents; bird watching; creating

Mathematical shapes from branches and leaves and Art work using natural materials from the outdoor area. Pupils wellbeing is a priority for us after a very challenging time for us all throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic, and our use of the outdoor area is a key element in our plans for this area of development. The evidence is clear that the use of nature promotes wellbeing greatly. We have plans in the pipe line for litter picks in the local area too so that our pupils are contributing positively once again to our wonderful local community. 49

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for JUNE 2021 by Izabella Vlahavas

Aries – You prepare to put new plans into place. A tough time is behind you and you feel more optimistic about the future. You have had to juggle things around. Very keen to communicate with others as this month you want to share exciting new ideas. The new moon in this part of your chart is an annular solar eclipse. This will make you forceful and very sure of yourself. There may be some disagreements at home with close family. Taurus – This is a great time for forward thinking, brush aside all previous concepts and let your imagination run wild. You have planets with strong influences on your chart at this time, that will make you feel you can achieve anything you want. Put this into practical form and you are ready to go! The full moon on the 24th falls in your travel zone, so some of your decisions are involved with uprooting yourself. Gemini – It is a pretty full-on time for you, with a flurry of planets in your own sign and you want the best in life. You get on with things. You feel assertive about finances for the first couple of weeks in June; this is especially good to make decisions. The new moon is in your own sign on the 10th and this pushes you to try new things, change your own style and make a new start in some part of your life. Jupiter in your career zone gives you many new opportunities. Cancer – Full of energy from the middle of this month, you have found a lot of things to look forward to and you are happy preparing. The full moon on the 24th is in your opposite house of close relationships, so this heralds a time for a change of attitude and closure to any connections that are not working out. Time to move on and start new involvements to those that give you more self-confidence. This is good news! Leo – You gain momentum by mid-month. Feeling very sure of yourself and able to persuade others to follow your lead, this is a great time for you to start new friendships. The new moon, which is an annular solar eclipse falls in your friendship zone. You will meet people who have the same ideas as you and want to join you in projects that you are looking forward to beginning. This adds to your strengths. Virgo – A much more positive time for you with better responses from close partnerships. You have been noticed for your hard work and you will be given rewards. This is a great time for your partnerships to grow and flourish. Ideas and opportunities for mutual benefit will come your way. You feel like expanding your horizons, maybe though learning new skills or a new language. This is a great time for you to enroll on a course. Libra – Sudden changes may occur in your joint investments. Surprizes or new ideas come your way quite fast. The full moon in your home zone on the 24th will help you to draw a line under some necessary adjustments, which may include family members. After the 11th you will find yourself feeling a little impatient with friends; there may be some friction that needs ironing out and smoothing over. Scorpio – The new moon falls in your joint finance zone on the 10th and gives you new ideas and the possible opportunity for future ventures. This part of your chart shows energy and possibilities that will create benefits for you. Perhaps someone you are in a close relationship with will behave erratically or change their minds about something. A different approach works best. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.

Sagittarius – A strong magnetic pull towards partners and lots of good responses from them will put you into a positive frame of mind. The new moon is in this part of your chart on the 10th and indicates new beginnings. Either an on-going situation will re-focus you and develop more to your liking or a new relationship will start up. This can turn out to be a very exciting time. Home improvements or re-decorating will give you a boost. Capricorn – The full moon in your own sign on the 24th gives you the push you need to end something either to do with business or love, and give yourself the chance to re-assess your options. This will be like a fresh look at an old problem, which is long overdue. It will give you the space and time you need to decide the next step. The flowing aspect in your chart with Uranus the planet of change will help you to create new projects. Aquarius – The Saturn transit through your sign helps you think seriously about your plans. It is making your plans reflect a very realistic approach. Jupiter is in your money zone and will give you more options and you take your time making decisions. The new moon on the 10th of this month falls in your creative zone, a new romance may be on the cards. This will give you something new to focus. Pisces – An emphasis in your home zone during the next few weeks, either bonding with family members or making changes in routines. The full moon on the 24th falls in your friendship zone. This gives you the chance to be more selective in your social life. After the 11th you are very assertive and thorough, giving your best at all times. A feeling of positivity and well being gives you more motivation to get things done.

The year ahead for

gemini

At exactly 09.30am GMT on the 20th May 2021, the sun enters the sign of Gemini and for all of you born with this sun sign, the following ingredients colour your year ahead. Adjustments and modifications need to be made according to your own specific time, date and place of birth which are individual only to you! PERSONALITY – You have a sunny disposition, full of optimism and get go energy. You want to travel and socialize with people, and you have great ideas to share with others. FEELINGS – You show care and concern for others and be keen to expand your horizons. A very good listener. You are ready for changes. You create harmony in your close relationships due to being straightforward and open about your feelings. MONEY – You are careful with money and finances, and you are looking at the bigger picture and taking precautions, if necessary. You start setting forward great ways to organize your time, and to be more productive and also spend more time with those close to you! Lots of love and best of luck from Izabella Vlahavas

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This month I want to talk about gold and painted lettering. Many think that the gold lettering found on memorials is paint. In fact it is gold leaf. If you tried to use gold paint the result would be a brassy look which would not look right. Gold leaf is very pure gold - 23 carat

- and when properly applied will give a lustrous finish to the lettering.

Silver leaf is superior to silver paint but is in fact aluminium leaf as silver would tarnish. There are a variety of other leaf metals but gold is by far the most regularly use. We will very often use black paint for lettering on light grey or granite or marble memorials so as to provide a contrast with the material. If you would like the lettering on your family grave re-gilded or re-painted please contact us and we will give you a free estimate with no obligation.

Freephone 0800 1950 466 Email: info@vale-memorials.co.uk

Please remember to ask about our discount for past and present members of the Armed Forces

Strange days indeed. Let us help you get your business back on track.

Call Phil on 07961 937238 or phil@communitymag.co.uk

NEATH PORT TALBOT’S BEST EVER RECYCLING RATE – THANKS TO YOU! Figures for the past year show residents of Neath Port Talbot achieved a ‘best ever’ recycling rate of 67.56% making it the eighth best recycling local authority area out of Wales’s 22 councils. The council’s recycling rate for the past 12 months reflects the percentage of total waste sent for recycling, composting or reuse with the 67.56% final figure meaning its residents and trading customers have now achieved the area’s highest ever rate of recycling. Over the next few months, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) will check all the council figures with the Welsh Government publishing the official statistics this Autumn. Cllr Mike Harvey, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Streetscene and Engineering, said: “We want to say a massive thank you to our residents and trade customers. “To think, not so long ago Wales was a low recycling nation but now we’re one of the top three recycling countries in the World along with Germany and Singapore. And with a 67.56% recycling rate we’re the 8th best recycling borough in the whole of Wales. “The last 12 months have not been easy for any of us but as well as thanking our residents and trade customers, I’d like to give a special mention to all our collection crews who have not stopped, even during the darkest days of this pandemic.” Although Neath Port Talbot’s 67.56% recycling rate is comfortably above the current Welsh Government target of 64% there is still more work to be done as Wales heads toward its next target of 70% by 2025. Neath Port Talbot Council operates a kerbside collection for recycling to all properties across the Borough. Residents can recycle plastic and cans, cardboard, glass, paper, and food waste for collection every week. There’s also a fortnightly collection of green garden waste.

With the exception of paper, the council has seen increases across all the materials it collects at the kerbside with significant increases in both glass and cardboard, each up about 40% on the previous year.

Worried about the continued Covid-19 lockdown? Concerned about future changes to restrictions and accessing your community? Are you looking for support, advice and reassurance?

PAVO Community Connectors will put you in touch with voluntary organisations and community groups who can support you. We will work with you to access the right local services, information and support to help improve your health and wellbeing.

01597 828649 Community.Connectors@pavo.org.uk @powysconnectors Credu supports Young and Adult Carers in the ways that matter to them. This can include: Practical information Emotional Support Financial support Groups and events Courses and training

01597 823800 carers@credu.cymru www.credu.cymru Infoengine: the online directory of third sector services across Wales www.infoengine.wales 59

Need advice? Antonina is here to help! I was put on anti-depressants after I had my daughter and was on them for about 10 years. Then I weaned myself off them and decided I wouldn’t take them any more as I didn’t like how they made me feel…..not been on them for about 4 years. I don’t take pills for anything now apart from vitamins and headache pills if I really have to as I believe in being as natural as possible I am in my mid 40s work as support worker in health and social care and I am also studying in the evenings. I have been really low lately and when I made a phone appointment with my GP she discussed going back on anti-depressants. I really don’t want to go on them as it wasn’t easy weaning myself off them and I think that this can lead to more pill taking later on. I took the prescription and have not taken them so far. I Keep going on-line and there is a lot of information about mental health but I want to try and do this without medication. Do you think hypnotherapy could help me?

Melanie

Dear Melanie, I am so sorry to hear that your mood is so low. As you have mentioned there is a wealth of information on mental health available online. Therefore you will know some of the reasons people become depressed can be due to physical or hormonal changes: having a child is a life changing event and many women suffer peri or post-natal depression. Other life changes and events can also trigger mental health issues e.g. trauma, bereavement, debt amongst a few, but sometimes it isn’t obvious or dramatic - it just seems to creep up on people. It is admirable you want to do things naturally. The good thing is that you are proactively discussing things with your doctor. I often find people don’t check the side effects of anti-depressants. This is something you could do as well as explore herbal and complementary therapy options. I am not sure if you accessed mental health support services 14 years ago? Your GP can refer you to the Community Mental Health Team and there are a lot of local charitable organisations which offer services you may want to take up. It seems that you have a lot going on and doing a great “juggling act ” as a working mum with so many demands and pressures on your time and energy. It is easy in today’s environment to fall into the trap of adding on more pressures and demands on ourselves and before you realise it you can be on “overload”. This is an ongoing theme I come across with my clients all the time. Sometimes it is worth just stopping, taking time out to get some perspective so that you can see the proverbial “wood for the trees”. Mental Health Awareness Week was in May and the theme is connection to nature and its benefits: https://www.mentalhealth.

org.uk/our-work/campaigns. Latest research shows the importance of “our relationship with the natural world by noticing nature, and that doing so has been found to bring benefits in mental health”. Talking to someone else in your family, support network or professionally may help you to lighten your load and help you make informed decisions. I look forward to discussing how hypnotherapy may help you (in your free consultation) as I help a wide spectrum of people experiencing mental health issues (whether taking prescribed medication or not) who have benefited from my Deep Relaxation methods especially designed to: • stimulate the innate healing capacity of your own body • tap into your own inner resources to overcome unwanted habits • access your inner potential to make the changes you want You may want to check out my facebook (facebook.com/AMendolaHypnotherapy) and Instagram (instagram.com/amendolahypnotherapy) for some new and exciting treatments coming on line at my local clinics during this month also. Please note letters are edited, name changed and paraphrased to ensure anonymity. Each month the author of the published letter will receive a free consultation with AMendola Hypnotherapy. Email your letters to antonina@communitymag.co.uk or write to the usual address.

Why not just learn ONE sentence of real, natural Welsh? www.SaySomethinginWelsh.com 61

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SPICY CHICKEN & COLD NOODLES

Ready for the heat to arrive, here’s a lovely one to enjoy on the patio! Enjoy with a cold beer or crisp white wine.

INGREDIENTS 1.5L water

1 Tbspns sesame oil

1 large whole bone-in chicken breast, skin 2 tspn chilli oil (or to taste) on 3 Tbspns light soy sauce Approx. 200g dried Chinese noodles 2 Tbspns red wine vinegar 1 tspn sesame oil 4 Tbspns sunflower oil 4 Tbspns tahini (or see below) 2 Tbspns very finely chopped garlic 3 Tbspns water

Method

Bring the water to the boil in a large saucepan over a medium/high heat. Add the chicken breast, and return to the boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for about 15 minutes. Remove the meat from the broth and set aside to cool. Bring the broth back to the boil again, and add the noodles. Cook according to the noodles’ instructions (normally around 5 mins). Drain the noodles (you can retain the broth for other recipes if you wish). Rinse the noodles under cold running water until completely cold. Drain again, and transfer them to a serving bowl. Toss the noodles lightly with 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Pull/shred the chicken meat into fine shreds, discarding the skin and bones. Combine the tahini and 3 tablespoons water, stirring to blend. Add the chilli oil, soy sauce, vinegar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, sunflower oil and garlic and mix well. Arrange the chicken on top of the noodles in the serving dish, spooning the sauce over it all. Add some raw julienne carrot and cucumber, sit on the patio in the sun and enjoy!

Tip: if you can’t find tahini in your local shop, you can substitute it by using 2 Tbspns peanut butter (preferably unsweetened), 1 Tbspns sesame oil and 1 Tbspn water (or until required consistency). Or even better, make your own tahini, it really is just as easy!: Toast 1 cup sesame seeds until lightly browned (not burned!) in a dry frying pan or skillet. Let them cool a little, then add to a food processor along with 3 Tbsps olive oil and whiz it up. You may add more oil if you want a thinner paste. This will keep in the fridge for a couple of months if in an airtight container. Phil

A Little Local Knowledge... EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS Emergency only 999 Police (Non-Emergency) 101 NHS 111 Wales 111 Dental Emergency 08456 010128 Dyfed Powys Police 0845 330 2000 South Wales Police 01656 655 555 Glanrhyd Community Hospital

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ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES Lumin Accountancy 0330 133 0344 www.lumin-accountancy.co.uk AERIAL & SATELLITE TV Aerial & Satellite Services Mark Williams 01792 713998 07778 737161 AIRPORT TRAVEL & MINIBUS Dragon Travel (Swansea Valley) 07877 604841 07951 111448 BUILDING SERVICES Ceri Edwards & Dean Breeze Ceri 07421 360 093 Dean 07496 450 144 CARPENTERS Matthew Harris Carpenter

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PLUMBING DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS www.neilshomeservices.co.uk RAL Plumbing Call Anthony on CARPETS 07890 500670 07813 822243 Benjamin Poole ELECTRICIANS ra.llewelyn@gmail.com 01269 824137 KDY Electrics ROOFING, SCAFFOLDING & 07768 061903 07971 861534 GENERAL BUILDING kdyelectrics@btinternet.com Glantawe Carpets S&A Builders, call Steve 01639 842522 S&D Domestic Electrics 07977 587 449 CHIMNEY SWEEP 07868 172990 01639 701 784 Tawe Sweep Choice.locks@icloud.com builderbrothers.co.uk 01639 415019 T.E. Hughes Electricals SCAFFOLDING 07552354726 01639 843826 WRK Scaffolding Ltd 07759 887395 Thomas Chimney Sweeps Rhys: 07930 182758 APICS & HETAS approved GARDENING SERVICES Wyndham: 07881 986160 sweep & Installer 3 Steps Gardening & info@wrk-scaffolding.com Call Gerry 07974 001133 Maintenance TAXIS Tom’s Chimney Sweep Service 07866 901911 IG’s Taxi Service Member Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps 01639 841827 Ystradgynlais based tomschimneysweepservice@hotmail.com 3steps4@gmail.com 07414 160 797 07754 083919 HEALTH & WELLBEING VOLUNTEERS WANTED Cristina’s Wellbeing Brecknock Wildlife Trust Chiropractic 01639 844273 01639 699573 07933 203166 07837208446 matt-harris@live.com

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YOUR COMMUNITY IS WAITING! Just send them to: phil@communitymag.co.uk

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

BIG NEIL’S QUIZ ANSWERS

1 Pandora 2 Watership Down 3 Snagglepuss 4 Tom Hanks 5 Farmers Wife 6 Uranus 7 Viagra 8 Mackintosh 9 Philip Scofield 10 Ethiopia 11 Billy Ocean 12 *8* 13 Nevada 14 Max 15 Kiwi 16 Eddie Murphy 17 Killer Whale 18 Odie 19 *1994 20 Joan Collins 21 *59 22 Lovely Jubbly 23 *12 24 Iron Man 25 The Kipper Tie 26 Milk 27 And 28 *1980 29 *20 30 Robbie Coltrane

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01639 699216 www.pearsonshomeimprovements.co.uk uPVC Windows & Doors Available Fully Fitted or Supply Only Call in and see us for your FREE quotation

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