March 2020
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Editor’s Foreword ‘MENACE’ DOESN’T REALLY DO IT JUSTICE I think that the powers that be are going to have to start thinking of more intimidating names for our storms! The one that’s just passed didn’t really feel like a ‘Dennis’ to me, at the very least it deserved something a little biblical! Assuming a change is on the horizon, Teddy Bear Bridge in Ystradgynlais is putting in a challenge with Dr Who for number of regenerations. Of course those of us who are lucky enough to live out of the way of the damage realise just how lucky we are; it’s heart breaking to see people, many without any form of insurance, lose almost all of their possessions, not to mention the upheaval and turmoil that comes from these events. I know there is always more than a single factor (Ystalyfera, for instance, has issues with blocked culverts), but it is painfully obvious for all to see that the amount of storms we are experiencing seem to be increasing in both frequency and severity, just as many have warned us for decades. In general, we haven’t really been listening. All of our media has us programmed to accept the word from above on what we need to do – and their priority will ALWAYS be to preserve their own wealth and status. The day before the floods, I was reading a post on Facebook about how members of Extinction Rebellion had targeted a branch of Lidl in Swansea to encourage people to remove their single use plastic packaging at the store (the premise being that if people keep doing this Lidl, who are one of the worst offenders among supermarkets for excess packaging, will be forced to stop the production of SU plastic packaging at source). Witnesses to the event who I spoke to relayed that the whole affair was calm and polite and that both the public and staff there were quite receptive. The online community were having none of it. They were straight in at the jugular, cursing and swearing and name-calling, claiming that the ‘do-gooders’ were causing disruption and were holierthan-thou in their attitude. Of course, none of these people were actually there! What is wrong with us as a people that our response to events like this are bitter, hatred-driven displays of bullying and intimidation? I know that, sat behind their keyboards or phones, there are far more bolshie than they are ever likely to be in public, but that’s not the point. These people will do literally anything to try and counter any good that someone attempts to achieve. There were even bizarre pseudo-scientific claims on imaginary studies that showed how the use of plastics is a net environmental gain for mankind!! After reading through all of these, frankly, stupid and uninformed comments and arguments it really hit home the next day waking up and seeing the devastation that Dennis had caused throughout Wales. I couldn’t help but wonder if, as a people, we had paid more attention to the activists years ago whether we’d be facing this particular disaster. If these nasty, mealy mouthed trolls didn’t fight and complain about any and every attempt to bring about progress maybe our use of plastics, and myriad other ecologically devastating practices that we employ, would be on the wane instead of continuously rising. I can’t imagine what motivates these people. Maybe if it was their homes sitting underwater they’d be glad that people are there to protest on their behalf.
Phil
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 APRIL 2019 EDITION - March 13th 3
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NPT RETAILERS SET FOR HELP WITH BUSINESS RATES Neath Port Talbot Council has agreed to adopt a new discretionary financial support scheme for retail businesses in the county borough. Approximately 550 retail businesses are set to benefit from more than £800k of grant funding provided by the Welsh Government. The High Street and Retail Rates Relief 2020/21 scheme, which will be managed by the Council, will provide eligible businesses with a discount of up to £2,500 on their non-domestic rates bill. The type of businesses that will benefit from the scheme include occupied high street and retail properties such as shops, restaurants, cafes and drinking establishments with a rateable value of £50,000 or less. Councillor Carol Clement-Williams, Cabinet Member for Finance, said: “We are delighted Welsh Government has decided to extend the financial support for retail businesses for 2020 / 21. “This will be welcomed by many of the small and independent retail businesses in Neath Port Talbot that will benefit from reduced running costs. The scheme is key to helping retailers to continue to provide essential goods and services to our local communities. “We are committed to assisting businesses to help create and sustain local employment, and support the growth of the local economy.” The discount is automatically granted to those businesses meeting the qualifying criteria and will be shown on the rates demand for 2020 / 21 being issued shortly. If additional information is needed by the Council to determine eligibility, an application form will be issued to the relevant business. If a business believes they meet the qualifying criteria but do not receive the discount automatically or receive an application form, they should contact the Business Rates Team on 01639 686843 or email business.rates@npt.gov.uk
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www.arborum.org
Tree Dismantling / Felling • Tree Pruning • Hedge Trimming Site Clearance and Maintenance 24hr Emergency Call Out Hedge / Tree Planting • Stump Grinding / Removal Work complying to BS3998 using fully insured & qualified staff All waste products removed and recycled 5
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Crossword
ACROSS
1. Keeping money in urban kingdom (7) 5. Assist in making a wager, perhaps (4) 10. Impressive display, sounds like a beam (5) 11. Something hard under foot? (5) 12. Feeling revealed something fishy (3) 13. Young animal sounds good for a laugh (3) 14. Retains main castle towers (5) 15. Some whiskers can be arduous (5) 17. Conceals eighth letter, dangerous time for Julius (5) 23. Apt time of year for a procession (5) 25. Place to sleep in superb Edinburgh (3) 26. Encountered some geometry (3) 27. Prone to prevarication? (5) 28. Some guru rallied for countryside (5) 29. Area still reveals direction (4) 30. Discover band soon, etcetera (3,2,2)
Answers on page 66
DOWN
2. Shorten, sounds like a crossing (7) 3. Okay a kind of canoe, essentially (5) 4. Erratic earner got closer (6) 6. Carbon estimate revealed skeleton (5) 7. Converted stable into items of furniture (6) 8. Sells predatory birds door to door (5) 9. Good in France uttered tailless lifeform (6) 16. Re-order marine to stay behind (6) 18. Irrational mob rage creates trade barrier (7) 19. Unstable meteor becomes distant (6) 20. Mythical creature can be unnecessarily long (6) 21. Discovered grownup in Trinidad ultimately (5) 22. Finally, without end product, a reference book (5) 24. Repeatedly goes on about stringed instruments (5) 7
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Jennifer Melly Law 45 Alfred Street Neath SA11 1EH
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Acting as a Professional Attorney under a Lasting Power of Attorney or Professional Deputy under the Court of Protection Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) are documents which can be prepared to legally appoint a person or persons to manage the finances and make decisions for someone who is unable to do so for themselves. Preparing an LPA while fit and well enables a person to choose who would act as their attorney or attorneys. Where somebody lacks capacity and they do not have an LPA in place already then anybody close to them can apply to the Court of Protection for authority to act on their behalf as their Deputy. In both of these situations it is usual for close family members or friends to act as Attorney or Deputy. However, there are situations where there is no one who is able to take on this role as it can be an onerous task to manage another person’s finances. In these instances, a professional Attorney or Deputy can be appointed in order to manage the person’s finances on their behalf. At Jennifer Melly Law we act as attorney or deputy for a number of clients which means we fully manage their finances for them. It is often the case that we begin to act where a person becomes unwell and begins to need care either at home or in a care home setting. In these situations, we are as any attorney or deputy would be called on to take over and manage their bank accounts, arrange to pay for their care and for day to day expenses such as household bills and shopping and dealing with pensions and claiming any benefits to which they may be entitled to. In order to carry out this role we often form close relationships with our clients and get to know them and their needs so that we can better assist them in our role as Attorney or Deputy. We may need to be involved in arranging and paying for their care, assisting them with shopping and washing clothes for periods while in hospital and advising them on a wide range of issues which may affect them. For those in their own home then we may be called upon to arrange and coordinate any repairs and renovations required to their properties. If you would like advice on any of the above matters then please contact us for further information. 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.
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For more informa�on or advice please contact us on 01639 630057
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POWYS COUNTY SILVER KITE AWARDED TO BLODAU VOLUNTEER
The volunteer group, Blodau Ystradgynlais, celebrated a special event on Friday, the 24th January at the Meat & Greet cafe, in the D.O.V.E., Banwen. We had gathered for a post festive meal and were joined by Susan McNicholas, County Councillor, and Beverley Baynham, Chair of Powys County Council, and her husband, Jamie Baynham.We had a wonderful surprise when Cllr. Baynham presented Cynthia Davis with a Silver Kite Award, given by Powys Council for exceptional volunteer services to the community. Cynthia is the founder member of Blodau and in 2019 led us to winning a Gold in Wales in Bloom and a Silver Gilt in Britain in Bloom. We were well looked after by the Meat & Greet staff including them clearing the table and chairs so that we could dance the night away to the music of Brad Mead. Volunteers to Blodau are welcome, please contact cynthiadavis@talktalk.net
YSTRADGYNLAIS LITTER LOUT FINED
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An Ystradgynlais resident has been fined £75 after they were sanctioned for the offence of ‘littering’ by Powys County Council. The offence was spotted on the A4067 near Pen Y Cae. Along with the witness statement and photographic evidence, the perpetrator was traced via the DVLA’s database and subsequently issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice. Cllr Heulwen Hulme, Cabinet Member for Recycling and Waste, said: “Our national parks are an idyllic, beautiful part of our county, renowned for their exceptional environmental qualities and attracting tourism. Roadside litter can be a real blight on our countryside which not only impacts on the beauty of our local communities, but also has devastating effects on our environment and wildlife. Clearing up after irresponsible litterers is also costly and a dangerous job on these busy roads. “It is a criminal offence under Section 87 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 to drop, throw or otherwise deposit, litter, and I am pleased that the council has acted appropriately by issuing this fine. I know most residents feel strongly about this problem and they will be reassured that this action encourages more people to take their rubbish home with them and throw it away, or recycle it, properly.”
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FOR MARCH 2020
Photograph: ‘Rainbow Over Glynneath Park’ by Delyth Evans If you’d like to see your photo on The Weather Outlook send it to phil@communitymag.co.uk
by Jonathan Powell, Swansea Sound Weatherman
Following a lenient winter that generated little to reflect the time of year with regards to snow, frost, and ice, March offers a mix of weather which may well carry forth the changeable theme from February into the new month. However, March seems unlikely to allow any of the changeable conditions harboured within February to incorporate late snow events. Therefore, with the potential for high pressure to build in during March and potentially anchor down, we can expect some dry, bright, and sunny early spring days with encouraging blue skies, accompanied by some, clear, chilly nights. In a month which will encourage daffodils to show themselves in abundance under some much needed sunshine, March breathes a sigh of relief as daylight hours grow ever so slightly longer. Overall despite some periods of wind and rain, the prospect of a milder than average month with rainfall on or around the norm, perhaps drier than the average.
Jonathan Powell, Wednesday, February 12th 2020
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xǣɴ ۭ ȅƏɎƬǝ 4 colours
Tawe Car Centre 13 AUDI A1 TDi S-LINE, 5 DR, BLUE,PAS,ALLOYS,R/C/L,FSH,56K, ZERO TAX
£ 7,995
14 FIAT PUNTO 1.2 EASY, 5 DR,BLACK,PAS,ALLOYS,R/C/L,81K, FSH, MOT
£ 3,395
11 SKODA FABIA 1.6 TDi ESTATE, GREY,PAS,ALLOYS,£20 TAX,FSH,70K, MOT
£ 3,495
11 CITROEN C3 PICASSO 1.6 HDi ,SILVER,PAS,ALLOYS,C/L,67K, MOT JUNE
£ 3,495
09 NISSAN QASHQAI 1.5 DCi TEKNA, GREY,PAS,ALLOYS,FSH,95K, 1 OWNER
£ 3,295
12 SUZUKI ALTO 1.0 PLAY, 5 DOOR, MET BLUE,PAS,R/C/L,E/W,38K, £20 TAX
£ 2,995
11 FORD FUSION 1.4i STYLE +, 5 DR, BLACK, PAS,R/C/L,E/W, 61K, NEW MOT
£ 2,995
60 CITROEN C3 1.6 HDi EXCLUSIVE, 5 DR,BLUE,PAS,ALLOYS,74K, £20 TAX SOLD 59 FIAT 500 1.2i LOUNGE, 3 DR, WHITE, PAS,ALLOYS,R/C/L,FSH,55K,£30 TAX SOLD 59 PEUGEOT 207 1.6 HDi SW SPORT, BLACK,PAS,ALLOYS,FSH,73K, £30 TAX SOLD 09 TOYOTA AYGO PLATINUM, 5DR,SILVER, PAS,C/L,ALLOYS,£30 TAX ,95K
£ 2,495
08 VW POLO 1.2 (60) MATCH, 3DR, GREY,PAS,ALLOYS,C/L,E/W, FSH,88K
£ 2,395
08 FORD FOCUS C-MAX 1.8 TDCi STYLE, GREY, PAS,84K,C/L, MOT JUNE 20
SOLD
08 FORD FOCUS 1.6 TDCi STYLE ESTATE ,WHITE, PAS,C/L,FSH, 117K, £30 TAX
£ 1,995
07 PEUGEOT 207 SW HDi, SILVER,PAS,ALLOYS, R/C/L,FSH, 95K, MOT MAY 20
£ 1,795
57 FORD FUSION 1.4 TDCi STYLE, MET BLUE,PAS,C/L, 76K, NEW MOT ISSUED
£ 1,695
58 FORD FUSION 1.4 TDCi STYLE, SILVER,PAS,C/L,E/W, £30 TAX, 123K, MOT
£ 1,495
07 VW GOLF 1.9 TDi S, 5 DOOR,SILVER, PAS,R/C/L,E/W, 145K MOT JAN 2021
£ 1,495
09 CITROEN XSARA PICASSO 1.6 HDi, SILVER,PAS,ALLOYS,FSH, 1 OWNER SOLD 04 LANDROVER FREELANDER TD4 SE, GREEN,PAS,ALLOYS,C/L,FSH,127K SOLD 05 LANDROVER FREELANDER TD4 S ,3 DR,SILVER,PAS,ALLOYS,MOT OCT 20
£ 1,295
23
Call us today
01792 894911
VAN & CAR RENTAL S BRISCO HAS A FLEET OF 75 NEW VEHICLES TO CHOOSE FROM
Whatever your rentals needs Brisco will have it at the the best price with flexible rental terms from 1 hour to long term rentals.
NEW Flexi VAN Hourly Rate available
FULL RANGE OF CARS ECONOMY • SMALL • MEDIUM • COMPACT • STANDARD • LARGE
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From
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PER DAY
PER DAY
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£28.42 INC VAT
Compact & Small Vans ______________ Type: Ford Transit Connect Passengers: 2/3 Doors: 3/4
£45.00 INC VAT
Long Wheel Base Vans ______________ Type: Ford Transit L3H2 Passengers: 3 Doors: 4
£65.00 INC VAT
Luton & Box Vans ______________
Type: Ford Luton Van / 7.5t Eurocargo Passengers: 3 Doors: 3
From
From
From
PER DAY
PER DAY
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£21.42 INC VAT
Economy & Small Cars ______________ Type: Ford KA Passengers: 4 Doors: 3
£25.00 INC VAT
Medium & Compact Cars ______________ Type: Ford Fiesta Passengers: 5 Doors: 5
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BRISCO RENTALS, GORSEINON ROAD, GORSEINON, SWANSEA, SA4 9GG
01792 894911 - www.briscorentals.co.uk
£34.28 INC VAT
Large Cars ______________
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NEXT TO ASDA, YSTALYFERA
Unit 7, Swansea Valley Business Park, Ystalyfera, SWANSEA, SA9 2EB
Available Wednesday - Friday 9am - 5pm
We have a huge range of blanks for Yale and many other brands to suit doors, windows, caravans, padlocks, security boxes etc.
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M: 07973 857389 T: 01639 411284 01639 701633
25
07974 023511
The LOCAL Specialist with over 25yrs experience in this area The Specialist for all your roofing requirements, including • Tiling and Slating • Fibreglass and Rubber Roofing • Chimney Stacks taken down & rebuilt • All uPVC Guttering & Fascias • All Lead Work undertaken • All Work Guaranteed • Free Estimates
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26
UPDATE
The last post concerning this historic chapel in the heart of the town was mostly about the passion the group feels for its heritage and its place in Glynneath. It talked about the decay and abandonment of hundreds of chapels in Wales that would soon be distant memories for an ageing population, with nothing to show our children about what we once were. This time, we want to show what revitalising the chapel could mean for the future prosperity of Glynneath, and its surrounding area. Wales has been granted £10 million in Heritage funding, which isn’t really a vast sum considering how much history it has to protect. However, Neath Port Talbot borough has been prioritised as an area to receive funding to preserve historic and culturally important features. Few, if any, bids are made locally for this funding, and Bethania would attract some positive attention, subject to the appropriate bid, of course. We feel that Glynneath deserves regeneration money, and this project might just be our means of attracting it. What could we do with this money? We could develop the existing community asset in the shape of its Community Centre for the multi-generational population of Glynneath. Create a Centre for the Welsh language and culture. Create a Business hub in the centre of the town. Create much needed employment opportunities Increase footfall in the town to mitigate the loss of trade by local businesses since the relocation of the surgery. Provide access to the Arts and Creative projects to rural communities actively encouraged by the Assembly (BBC News 5th November 2019) Local transport limitations reduce the capability of many residents to participate in entertainment and recreational facilities. Provide a community cinema Provide exhibition/performance/rehearsal space for Art, Drama and Music for all ages. Provide space for Local History events, exhibitions and archive storage-possibly a small museum. Provide a destination for tourists to the area, in conjunction with the Waterfall Country tourist management project in Pontneddfechan and the anticipated Zip Wire attraction in Rhigos. The preservation of an historic building which visitors in the future will visit, because examples like Bethania will no longer exist. Become a tourist information centre between the Brecon Beacons National Park and the Gower. A great deal of funding has been put into sporting activities in the town, and quite rightly so. However, these facilities do not fulfil the needs of all members of the community. There are many who would prefer to perform, play an instrument, to learn to dance or to see a film in company. Everyone deserves to have an opportunity to do something that delights them. The community centre is integral to the alleviation of isolation and loneliness. At a time when mental health issues dog our society, we need more opportunities to be creative, provide companionship and come together, not fewer. Anything that closes on the High St limits the opportunities for people to want to come to use shops and services. High streets are dying everywhere. This is our chance to save Glynneath’s.
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BEAUTIFUL BLINDS TO ENHANCE ANY HOME Janela Shutters & Blinds are a leading supplier of high quality interior shutters and finest quality window blinds. Our range of blinds include venetian, vertical, roller, pleated and roman. All our products are installed by master craftsmen and fully guaranteed.
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34
Janela Shutters & Blinds Showroom at: 20A St. John’s Terrace Neath Abbey, Neath SA10 7NA
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PROPERTY CLEARANCE & WASTE REMOVAL 07773 352914 01792 844765 WWW.ARIESSERVICESLTD.CO.UK We Specialise In Property Clearance And Are Fully Licensed And Insured To Carry All Goods.
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DEEP RELAXATION Qualified Hypnotherapist Antonina Mendola, building on many years of practise has devised her own Hypnotherapy & Deep Relaxation methods. She specialises in helping her clients with confidence building, motivation, stress, anxiety and fears. Antonina works with her individual clients usually face to face and runs group courses & specialised programmes. She is happy to give talks or presentations about her work. With benefits including: • Decreased stress & anxiety • Increased energy and vitality • Increased calm and greater well being Antonina’s clients say that they can sleep better, worry less, are often Wanting to change an unwanted habit or more in control, feel more confident & limitation? motivated and more able to deal with Smoking, over-weight, stress, phobias, pain, grief, sleep disorders & many others. life’s challenges and pressures. Practise locations: Upper Swansea Valley, Neath, Swansea and Brecon.
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Practise locations - Upper Swansea Valley, Neath and Swansea. 39
Contact Antonina on 01639 730043 07971 260254 am@amendolahypnotherapy.co.uk www.mendolahypnotherapy.co.uk
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Do You Enjoy The Great Outdoors?
Why not join us on our walks in the area and beyond? A Friendly Way To Spend Your Day! Make new friends, stay healthy! Suitable for All Ages and Abili�es, including those that have not exercised for a while.
Membership is FREE!
â&#x20AC;&#x153;Three Valleys Nordic Walking is a fantastic group encouraging an active lifestyle and helping to tackle loneliness, all in a welcoming environment. Joining the group will not only get you out and about in the fresh air, enjoying some idyllic scenery in the area, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a chance to meet new people and strike up new friendshipsâ&#x20AC;?
THREE VALLEYS NORDIC WALKING 40
Frank:
For further information please contact 01639 830466 or Gareth: 07939
340615
Viv Date Carpets
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KEITH THOMAS GENERAL BUILDERS Keith Thomas Builders Ltd, Old Wern Rd, Ystalyfera SA9 2LL
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41
01639 841149 07970 942009
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01639 842331 or Mark on: 07771 643 908
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WHICH FLOWER IS ALTERNATIVELY CALLED THE LENT LILY? SING SING IS LOCATED IN NEW YORK, WHAT IS IT? WHICH CAR MANUFACTURER MAKES THE BALENO? WHAT WORD CAN GO BEFORE, MACHINE, DOG, ROLL? NAME THE SCANDINAVIAN ANIMALS THAT FAMOUSLY RUN OFF CLIFFS WHAT IS THE 6th BIBLE COMMANDMENT? WHAT IS ONE QUARTER OF ONE QUARTER? NAME THE 3 FEMALE SUSPECTS IN CLUEDO WHO CREATED THE FAIRY TALE LITTLE ‘RED RIDING HOOD’? NAME ROWAN ATKINSON’S FOOLISH SECRET AGENT NAME THE TWO RUNNERS THAT WERE IN C4’S ‘TREASURE HUNT’ WHAT IS THE SUNDAY BEFORE EASTER CALLED? WHO HAD A HIT WITH ‘COTTON EYE JOE’? IN WHICH MONTH IS THE AMERICAN SUPERBOWL HELD? NAME AUSTRALIA’S AIRLINE WHAT ARE LEGHORN, ORPINGTON, SUSSEX? BETWEEN WHICH 2 PLANETS DOSE THE ASTEROID BELT LIE? WHAT IS THE STATELY HOME OF THE MARQUIS OF BATH? WHICH ENGLISH PREM SOCCER CLUBS WERE KNOWN AS St DOMINGO FC? ON WHICH MOTORWAY DOES THE DARTFORD TUNNEL LIE ON? WHICH SPORTING EVENT IS SEEN LIVE BY THE MOST SPECTATORS? WHO HAD A HIT WITH ‘GLAD ALL OVER’ & ‘BITS & PIECES’? WHICH KING TURNED EVERYTHING HE TOUCHED TO GOLD? WHICH SPICE GIRL HAD THE FIRST SOLO HIT SINGLE? NAME BARNEY RUBBLES CARTOON SON WHAT IS THE MOST ABUNDANT GEMSTONE FOUND IN IRELAND? WHAT DO YOU ADD TO BLUE TO MAKE GREEN? WHAT IS BARBIE’S SURNAME? WHICH BIRD LAY’S THE SMALLEST EGG? WHAT THREE PLACES ARE WRITTEN ON THE SIDE OF DEL BOY’S RELIANT ROBIN?
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
2
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ANSWERS ON PAGE 66
A Lifetime Mortgage could help provide the missing piece to your plan for a comfortable retirement
Choosing to release money from your home is a big decision, so weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here to help by advising you on all of the options available to you This is a lifetime mortgage. To understand the features and risks please ask for a personalised illustration. We have a fixed advice fee of ÂŁ995. A lifetime mortgage may impact your entitlement to means tested benefits and the inheritance you may leave. Plan availability is subject to lendersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; criteria and dependent on their terms and conditions.
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WHY VACCINATING YOUR PET IS SO IMPORTANT Animals, just like humans, are susceptible to a wide variety of infectious diseases in the environment. According to NOAH (National Office of Animal Health), immunity, achieved by vaccination, is one of the best means of infectious disease prevention. Unfortunately, not all of the pet population is routinely vaccinated. With the exception of Rabies, pets in the UK are at risk of a number of different species-specific life threatening illnesses outlined below; all of which are preventable with routine vaccination. Dogs We recommend starting vaccinations from 8 weeks of age, followed by a second vaccination 2-4 weeks later. They are then fully protected 1 week after this. However, it is important to have your dog annually vaccinated to maintain their immunity at adequate levels. The main diseases that we vaccinate dogs against in the UK are: Distemper virus – This is a viral infection spread by close contact with infected dogs. Infected dogs can develop vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing, nasal discharge and neurological abnormalities. Death occurs in severe cases. Adenovirus (aka hepatitis) – This virus is spread via bodily secretions of infected dogs. Serious liver disease often results from infection and dogs develop jaundice, fever, abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhoea. Parvovirus – This virus is spread via contaminated faeces. Once in the environment, it can survive for up to 9 months. Dogs of varying ages can be affected, however, young dogs <6 months of age are most at risk. Infected dogs commonly develop severe bloody diarrhoea, vomiting and subsequently dehydration, which can be fatal. Leptospirosis – This is a bacterial infection spread via contaminated water and urine from infected dogs and rats. Unvaccinated dogs that swim in canals are at greatest risk. Infected dogs develop increased thirst, vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, fever and jaundice. Please be aware that leptospirosis can also spread to humans via contact with infected urine, resulting in fatal infections! (In addition, if you are planning on placing your dog in boarding kennels, they will also require an additional vaccination, known as the Kennel Cough vaccine. This will help to provide protection against Parainfluenza and Bordatella bronchiseptica, both of which are not usually life-threatening but are capable of causing a painful harsh and dry hacking cough).
A Complete and Comprehensive Veterinary Service All Under One Roof High Street, Clydach SA6 5LN Tel: 01792 842437 www.animaldoctors.co.uk
46
Opening Hours Monday to Friday: 8.30am - 18.00pm Saturday: 9.00am - 13.00pm
Cats We start vaccinations from 9 weeks of age, followed by a second vaccination 3 weeks later. Like dogs, they will be fully protected 1 week later and annual vaccinations are vital. The main diseases we vaccinate cats against in the UK are: Feline Leukaemia Virus – This virus is often shed via milk and also nasal/saliva secretions. There is a higher risk of disease transmission in households with two or more cats. Clinical signs can range from weight loss, inflamed gums and recurrent infections to anaemia and leukaemia.
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A GP CONSULTATION CAN BE
A consultation with the doctor is now just a click of a mouse away for some Swansea Valley patients, as their GP surgery has gone online. After listening to calls from its patients for greater access, the Cwmtawe Medical Group – which is made up of Clydach Primary Care Centre, New Cross Surgery and Sway Road Surgery (both in Morriston) - has introduced digital consultations where patients can contact their doctor via their computer, tablet or smartphone. Using a platform called askmyGP, patients can log on to the new Cwmtawe Medical Group website to access the service. They are then asked to enter some basic details which will then be read by a GP who will direct them onto the appropriate health professional, such as a practice nurse, physiotherapist or pharmacist. If a GP’s input is required, a decision is made as to whether the patient needs a prescription, phone consultation or a face-to-face appointment. So far, almost half of the practice’s 25,000 patients have registered with the new service. The existing methods of contacting the surgery, by telephone or in person, remain in place offering patients a great choice. Since its inception at the end of November last year 94 per cent of those who have used the new system said that they were satisfied with the service.
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Dr Iestyn Davies, a partner at the practice, said: “It’s about advancement using modern technology, we have to move with the times. “Traditional GP surgeries have evolved so much over the last few years and we have to keep pace with demand. “We appreciate our patients’ frustrations when sometimes trying to contact us using the existing telephone system and askmyGP is a new digital consultation platform which will allow patients greater access to their GP if they so wish. “We hope that it will be embraced by the community and lead to a better overall experience. “Each request is dealt with in a timely and appropriate manner. “We are a large organisation of multidisciplinary clinicians these days and deal with the patients according to their presentations. “As such you don’t always need to see or speak to a GP, it may be a query that other members of the team can deal with.”
JUST A MOUSE CLICK AWAY
Reassuring those who are more comfortable with more traditional methods he said: “The existing system will still be in place. Patients will still be able to ring in or come to reception and request medication or letters as they have done in the past.” Reflecting on its progress to date he said: “It’s still a work in progress but to me the biggest plus is that it gives our patients more of a choice and has enabled us to help more of them more quickly. “It also provides data which is helpful in shaping our future working patterns.” Cwmtawe Medical Group’s Business Manager, Mike Garner, said: “The uptake has been excellent with around 45 per cent of our requests coming in online. We are a practice with circa 25,000 patients and we currently have around 11,000 registered with our askmyGP service. “We think it’s a fantastic service, especially for those who work during our opening hours, or find it difficult to find the time to telephone us in the day. “Around 75 per cent of those who contact us by email are dealt with within 90 minutes and as we are only 12 weeks into it, and have a lot of staff training to complete, we fully expect things to improve further and to become even more efficient.” Of the public’s response he added: “The feedback has been excellent with a 94 per cent patents’ satisfaction level being recorded over the first 12 weeks of the service, which is wonderful.” One patient, Beryl Thomas, aged 77 of Clydach, said: “I think it’s an excellent service. “I needed to see the doctor but couldn’t get through on the telephone so my son registered me online and I had an appointment with a doctor within the hour.” Those registered with the Cwmtawe Medical Group can access the askmyGP service via its website here: www.cwmtawemedicalgroup.co.uk
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for MARCH 2020 by Izabella Vlahavas
Aries – The new moon is in your sun sign on the 24th of this month and will call for new beginnings is some part of your life. You may want to plan ahead and start putting changes into place. Follow your heart. Purpose in your career makes this related to your future decision. New opportunities come your way. You want to handle money matters differently and you will for new methods to suit your needs. Taurus – You have the desire to travel and make plans to further this. Either for business or recreation or both, you need a change of scenery. The full moon in your zone of romance and creativity on the 9th urges you to make decisions, renew or close projects to clear the way for new objectives. This month you will put things into place and take stock of what needs to be done next. You are in the mood for change. Gemini – A lot of focus this month on shared investments, joint finances or an inheritance. You can view your options and see what is the best way forward. The new moon is in your friendship zone on the 24th and will instigate new connections or meetings that benefit you. Mercury the planet of communication and negotiation is in your career zone after the 16th and enables you to easily make headway with plans. Cancer – You have both Jupiter and Mars in your partnership zone, which creates passion, opportunity and some differences of opinion, so be tactful and positive for the best outcomes. The new moon falls in your career zone and pushes you to start a new project or propose a new way of handling something at work. Unexpected new friendships give you refreshing new ideas and plenty of support. Leo – You want to make the best of all new opportunities, Uranus the planet of surprise is in your career zone and this gives you the chance to see things differently. Take a different route. Go with change and renewal. A chance to travel and explore new horizons will appeal to you at this time. Both new energy and a sense of stability comes to your one to one relationships by the end of this month, so you can think about where things are going. Virgo – A push from you to make creative ideas come into being gives you new targets. The full moon in your sun sign on the 9th makes a perfect time for you to make an ending and start a new beginning. You will be delighted with the chance to begin new projects. Home is where the heart is and you get lots of support from family. This is the right time for you to expand your career horizons. Libra – Strife or disagreements at home cause clashes between you and close family, which means that it is time to sort things out. Don’t be intimidated or let other people take advantage of you. The new moon on the 24th is in your close partnership zone, so a new start in your relationships can help you to get things into perspective. Use this time wisely to get the right kind of support for yourself. Scorpio - You have new interests and you pursue them with passion. You feel versatile and communicative, and your social life will be demanding during the weeks ahead. The full moon on the 9th is in your friendship zone and helps you to re-arrange your calendar to meet top priorities. Your home or base at the end of this month will be a focal point for renewal and expansion. 53
Sagittarius – Money matters take a boost and put you in the right frame of mind to deal with new investments. You will be keen to re-arrange your routines and make changes that are current to your needs. Make time for yourself either at the gym or for meditation and you will feel the benefits. The new moon on the 24th pushes you to begin a personal project. This is a good time to organize something that you find fulfilling. Capricorn – You are full of good intentions and you have lots of energy to get things started, especially at the beginning of this month. You need for change and travel plans are on the cards. You want to explore new places. Excitement leads to a new romance. Be careful when expressing your points of view as you are very opinionated and tact is the keyword plus taking things slowly. Aquarius – This a good time for you and by the end of the month, you look towards changes on the horizon. You want to assert yourself and put things in order. Any plans you have will now fall into place and you can get on with things that you want to do. The full moon falls in your joint finance zone on the 9th and this spurs you forward to take major decisions. This is a good time to present a project to partners. Pisces – Mercury is in your sign after the 16th making your powers of communication razor sharp. You are good at understanding other people and they will look to you for support. This is a good time to use your creative instincts. You will feel better and enjoy any social interactions. You benefit from these. The full moon is in your close partnership zone on the 9th and will be a good time for relationships.
The year ahead for
PISCES
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At exactly 0630 am gmt on 19th February 2020 the sun goes into Pisces and for all of you born with this sun sign, the following ingredients colour your year ahead. Modifications and adjustments need to be made according to your own specific time, date and place of birth which are individual only to you. PERSONALITY – You will require a lot of space and freedom and you will demand that you get it! This is a great time for you to be individualistic and you have lots of reserves of energy and will power to get on with exactly what you choose. LOVE – You are persistent in your views and also generous to those you are close to. You will deal with emotions in a more practical way than usual and find that you are methodical and very helpful to others. MONEY – This coming year, you seek a better balance in your life and will harmonize and adjust the time spent between work and family commitments. You attract benefits in your career, that will make life easier for you. GENERALLY – This year you will be able to focus on those things that are most important to you and find you have a lot to offer. A stronger ‘you’ brings responsibilities and family closer together. Lots of love and best of luck from Izabella Vlahavas
WHAT'S ON MARCH 2020
LIVE EVENTS Buddy Holly and the Cricketers
Thursday 12th March | 8pm Tickets: £17 | £13
Endorsed as Britain’s most popular Buddy Holly act by BBC1's Graham Norton
Rihab Azar & Luke Daniels Saturday 14th March | 8pm Tickets: £10 | £8
East meets West as two outstanding musicians from the UK and Syria perform traditional music. Enquire about family music workshops & hospitality.
James Wilton Dance: The Storm
Wednesday 25th March | 7.30pm Tickets: £10 | £8
Acrobatics, break-dancing & martial arts merge to create a dance performance that will blow you away.
www.thewelfare.co.uk | 01639 843163
LIVE BROADCASTS Fidelio Sunday 22nd March | 2pm Tickets: £15 | £12.50
Jonas Kaufmann stars in Beethoven's only opera - an uplifting story of risk and triumph.
CINEMA Mr Jones
Mon 2nd March 7pm (C.E) & Thurs 5th 2pm & 7pm
Emma
Fri 6th March 7pm, Mon 9th 2pm & 7pm (C.E) & Weds 11th 2pm
The Personal History of David Copperfield Mon 16th March 2pm & 7pm (C.E) & Thurs 19th 2pm
Harriet
Mon 23rd March 2pm & 7pm (C.E) & Thurs 26th 7pm
Military Wives
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Fri 27th March 2pm, Sat 28th & Sun 29th 7pm, Mon 30th 2pm & 7pm (C.E), Weds 1st & Thurs 2nd April 2pm
With Palm Sunday and Easter fast approaching, I thought I would talk a little about the cleaning and maintenance of memorials. This concerns, in the main, any type of stone which does not have an entirely polished surface.
Highly polished granite and most slate will resist the ravishes of time quite nicely. However, stone such as Forest of Dean, unpolished or rustic granite and Italian marble will, over time, succumb not only to surface staining but also to various types of lichen that may even penetrate deep down into the stone itself. We can make a very marked difference in the appearance of these memorials. I remember one customer proclaiming his newly cleaned marble memorial to be the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Taj Mahalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of Bedwellty, indeed there was such a marked improvement he walked past the memorial several times before realising his mistake! Having said this, such results are dependant on the quality of the material, the exposure of the site and the time since last cleaning. We always try and leave customers with the advice they need to maintain the memorial at a high standard in the future and we can arrange a maintenance contract if this is required. If you would like to have a memorial professionally cleaned please contact me and I will be happy to provide you with a free estimate for your memorial.
Freephone 0800 1950 466 Email: info@vale-memorials.co.uk
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Email: mail@communitymag.co.uk or write to Community Mag, 8 Darren Road, Ystalyfera, Swansea, SA9 2HP
Dear Phil, I am regarded, in the Glynneath/Cwmgwrach area, as a local historian. For many years I have given “Talks” on the subject to many diverse societies, organisations, guilds and, of course, schools. In June 2000 I published a book on the history of Cwmgwrach ‘Cwmgwrach-Valley of the Witch’ a hardback book of 373 pages, the result of near eight years research and writing. In 2005 I published another book called ‘The Egan Chronicles’ which is a brief biography of an American family, though with initial Cwmgwrach connections. This involved a long-term association with the Egan family, including a visit to New York to see Eileen Egan. Eileen became an International Aid Worker and world renown peace activist. She was a long-time friend and associate of Mother Teresa and Dorothy Day and recipient of the highest civilian medal from both the French and German Governments. As a result of my efforts to re-introduce Eileen to the neighbourhood of Cwmgwrach, where she spent her formative years, the Neath Council agreed to raise a plaque in Glynneath library in her memory and in honour of her many achievements, for which I am truly grateful. But today I write to you because I share your views on capitalism - as indeed did Eileen Egan. In my opinion Capitalism can be simplified under the heading “Greed.” It is undoubtedly the cause of most of the world’s greatest ills and adversities. I will, therefore, be most grateful if you can find space in your magazines to include the following poem I composed, which I believe expresses how greed is destroying our people and planet.
Greed What is this world that man does carve, Where babies leave the womb to starve Where children flee from war in fright, Sad victims of man’s care-less might. Where ice-caps melt and split asunder, While forests fall at the hand of plunder, Where plastic waste congests the seas, And diesel fumes pollute the breeze. Where those who rule and oft’ dictate, What colour or creed embrace their state, Where the greedy few their bounty reap, As in the doorways the homeless sleep. Where the rich get richer and the poor, poorer, Where greed is victor there’s nothing surer. Many thanks, Sincerely yours, Ian J. Currie 59
Email: mail@communitymag.co.uk or write to Community Mag, 8 Darren Road, Ystalyfera, Swansea, SA9 2HP
Dear Phil I was dismayed to hear from a volunteer in one of the Charity shops in Ystradgynlais this week, about the “fly-tipping” outside the shop. Powys County Council offers an invaluable service for re-cycling at its site in Lower Cwmtwrch. Understandably, due to high costs, the site is not open every day. It is closed on Tuesday and Wednesday. I visited the charity shop on Tuesday. On arrival at the shop a member of staff had to contact the local authority to remove all of the many items that had been left outside the shop during closing hours. Most of these items could not be sold in the shop. Items dumped included: an old golf bag full of rusty golf clubs, an unusable pushchair, a bag full of used nappies etc ………. The charity itself has to pay for the removal of these items. The cost over a year is thousands of pounds. Charities cannot sustain these losses. The member of staff fears that the shop will have to close if this gross misuse continues. Currently, the charity pays more for the removal of the “fly tipping” than they are making in the shop. I would be most grateful if you could pass on this message, which will hopefully reduce the “fly-tipping” problem. Sincerely Auriol Graham
6 Minutes A Day or 6 Months, We’ll Get You Talking (Welsh, that is)
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www.SaySomethinginWelsh.com
THE
Gurnos Road, Ystradgynlais SA9 2HY â&#x20AC;¢ Tel: 01639 842116
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Gig Guide SPONSORED BY GUITAR TECH SERVICES
MARCH Sat 7th
The Bomb, Glanrhyd 8.30pm SUNSHINE CAB Co. Penrhos Social Club JAMIE Gough Con Club, Ystradgynlais 9.30pm MARK CHRISTIE Godre’rgraig Workingmens Club ALYSON FARADAY
Sun 8th
Gough Con Club, Ystradgynlais
Thu 12th The Welfare, Ystradgynlais
5.00pm
THE SOMETHINGS
8.00pm
BUDDY HOLLY & THE CRICKETERS
Sat 14th Penrhos Social Club PHIL STEELE Gough Con Club, Ystradgynlais 9.30pm RONNIE JOHNSON Godre’rgraig Workingmens Club NO SHOW The Welfare, Ystradgynlais 8.00pm RIHAB AZAR & LUKE DANIELS Sun 15th
Gough Con Club, Ystradgynlais
Sat 21st
Penrhos Social Club Gough Con Club, Ystradgynlais 9.30pm Godre’rgraig Workingmens Club
Sun 22nd Gough Con Club, Ystradgynlais
URSINE PRINCES
5.00pm
5.00pm
STEVIE MANN SEASA KAY IWAN
THE THRILLIONAIRES
Sat 28th
The Bomb, Glanrhyd 9.30pm STEVIE J Gough Con Club, Ystradgynlais 9.30pm MANDI Penrhos Social Club DANNI Godre’rgraig Workingmens Club PASHY POPS DUO
Sun 29th
Gough Con Club, Ystradgynlais
5.00pm
THE THRILLIONAIRES
ADVERTISE YOUR LIVE MUSIC EVENTS HERE FREE OF CHARGE! JUST EMAIL THEM TO gigs@communitymag.co.uk 63
Remember, we need your APRIL gigs by March 13th to catch the next issue!
A Little Local Knowledge... EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS Emergency only 999 Police (Non-Emergency) 101 NHS Direct 0845 46 47 Dental Emergency 08456 010128 Dyfed Powys Police 0845 330 2000 South Wales Police 01656 655 555 Glanrhyd Community Hospital
01639 844777
Floodline 0845 988 1188 Welsh Water (emergencies & sewerage problems) 0800 052 0130 Powys County Council 0845 602 7030 NPT County Council 01639 686868 Carms. County Council 01267 234567 Tai Tarian (NPT) 0300 777 0000 Repairs 0300 777 3000
DOCTORS SURGERIES Pengorof
01639 843221
Ystalyfera
01639 843251
Abercraf
01639 730225
Dulais Valley Surgery
01639 701660
Meddygfa’r Cwm Ystalyfera
01639 844738
Meddygfa’r Cwm Cwmllynfell
01639 830204
Glynneath
01639 509050
COMMUNITY POLICING (PCSO’s) Maria Edwards (Godre’graig / Ystalyfera)
07805 301533
Andrew Jones (G’neath/Cwmgwrach)
07469 907982
Aled Musselwhite (Resolven/MelynCt/Clyne)
07825 456539
Emily Tennet (Banwen/Onllwyn/S.Sisters)
07825 352047
COUNCILLORS D. Huw Williams (Ystradgynlais)
01639 845868
David A. Thomas (Tawe Uchaf )
01639 730033
Susan McNicholas (Ynyscedwyn)
01639 849912
Sarah Williams (Abercraf )
01639 730508
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Glynog Davies (Cefnbrynbrain/Ystradowen) 01269 823240
AMs & MPs
Kirsty Williams AM (Brec & Rad) Jeremy Miles AM (Neath) Christina Rees MP (Neath) Fay Jones MP (Brec & Rad)
01874 625739 01792 869993 01639 630152 01874 624 796
HELP & ADVICE
Age Connect (NPT) 01639 617333 Citizens Advice 08444 77 20 20 Samaritans 08457 90 90 90 Victim Support 0845 30 30 900 Childline 0800 111 Domestic Abuse 0808 80 10 800 Welfare Rights (NPT) 01639 685225 RSPCA (Llys Nini) 01792 229435 Consumer Direct 08454 04 05 06 AfanTaweNedd Neighbourhood Watch www.atnneighbourhoodwatch.org
SCHOOLS Maesydderwen
01639 842115
Cwmtawe
01792 863200
Y.G. Ystalyfera
01639 842129
Llangatwg
01639 634700
Bishop Vaughan
01792 772006
Ysgol Golwg Y Cwm
01639 846070
Y Wern
01639 842242
Hugh Jones (Cwmllynfell/Rhiwfawr)
01639 831282
Alun Llewelyn (Ystalyfera)
01639 849729
Ysgol Gymraeg Dyffryn Y Glowyr 01639 846060
Sandra Davies (Cwmtwrch)
01639 830835
Ysgol Bro Tawe
01639 846000
Rosalyn Davies (Godrergraig)
01792 862447
Ysgol Y Cribarth
01639 731500
Sian Harris (Crynant)
07814 127555
Caehopkin Primary
01639 730231
Stephen Hunt (Seven Sisters)
01639 700063
Dean Cawsey (Onllwyn)
07817 218556
Crynant
01639 750224
Del Morgan (Glynneath)
01639 722300
Blaendulais
01639 700342
Simon Anthony Knoyle (Glynneath)
07968 386108
Godre’rgraig
01639 843116
Dean Lewis (Resolven)
07854 424162
Blaendulais
01639 700261
Cwmllynfell
01639 830630
ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES Lumin Accountancy 0330 133 0344 www.lumin-accountancy.co.uk
COMPUTER SERVICE PC Doctor 01639 843765 pcdoctorwales@gmail.com
AERIAL & SATELLITE TV Aerial & Satellite Services Mark Williams 01792 713998 07778 737161
COUNSELLING Rebecca O’Dowd Cognitive Behaviour Therapy 07568 160084 www.rebeccaodowdcbt.co.uk
AIRPORT TRAVEL & MINIBUS Dragon Travel (Swansea Valley) 07877 604841 07951 111448
DENTISTS Cwmdulais Dental Centre 01639 750260
BUILDING SERVICES Ceri Edwards & Dean Breeze Ceri 07421 360 093 Dean 07496 450 144 Harris Flooring & Restorations Contact Matthew on 07837 208446 CARPETS Benjamin Poole 01269 824137 07768 061903 Glantawe Carpets 01639 842522 CHIMNEY SWEEP Tawe Sweep 01639 415019 07552354726 Thomas Chimney Sweeps APICS & HETAS approved sweep & Installer Call Gerry 07974 001133 Tom’s Chimney Sweep Service Member Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps
tomschimneysweepservice@hotmail.com
07754 083919
COMPUTER SERVICE Simon Panacz Dulais Valley Computers mail@dvcomputers.co.uk 07966 433 540
cwmdulaisdental@outlook.com
DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIR Robert Owen 07737 325605 01639 843214
HYPNOTHERAPY & RELAXATION A Mendola Hypnotherapy 01639 730043 07971 260254 am@amendolahypnotherapy.co.uk
MUSIC TUITION Classical Guitar & Theory Tuition, Rob Lewis F.M.C.M L..N.C.M A.L.C.M
01639 831499 PAINTING & DECORATING Andrew Best 07895 085056 PLASTERING Neil’s Plastering Contact Neil Wood at: 07852 959451
DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS www.neilwoodplastering.co.uk Neilwood1976@yahoo.com www.neilshomeservices.co.uk Roy Cousins 07890 500670 07976 637 357 ELECTRICIANS PLUMBING KDY Electrics 07971 861534 RAL Plumbing kdyelectrics@btinternet.com Call Anthony on 07813 822243 S&D Domestic Electrics ra.llewelyn@gmail.com 07868 172990 Choice.locks@icloud.com ROOFING Sunnyvale Roofing Sheets, T.E. Hughes Electricals Blue Barrels & Salvage 01639 843826 Rhydyfro 07759 887395 01639 845 096 GARDENING SERVICES 07891 723 942 3 Steps Gardening & TAXIS Maintenance IG’s Taxi Service 07866 901911 Ystradgynlais based 01639 841827 07414 160 797 3steps4@gmail.com HAIRDRESSERS Joanne’s Mobile (formerly Salon 3 Ystradgynlais) 07510 233 866
VOLUNTEERS WANTED Brecknock Wildlife Trust 01639 844273
HEALTH & WELLBEING Cristina’s Wellbeing Chiropractic 01639 699573 07933 203166 65
GUITAR TECH SERVICES
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CROSSWORD ANSWERS
BIG NEIL’S QUIZ ANSWERS
1 DAFFODIL 11 2 PRISON 3 SUZUKI 4 SAUSAGE 5 LEMMINGS 6 NOT KILL 7 *1/16TH* 8 MISS SCARLET, MRS WHITE, MRS PEACOCK 9 BROTHERS GRIMM 10 JOHNNY ENGLISH 11 ANNEKA RICE, ANNABEL CROFT 12 PALM SUNDAY 13 REDNEX 14 JANUARY 15 QUANTAS 16 HEN BREEDS 17 JUPITER/MARS 18 LONGLEAT 19 EVERTON 20 M25 21 TOUR DE FRANCE 22 DAVE CLARK 5 23 KING MIDAS 24 GERI HALLIWELL 25 BAM BAM 26 EMERALD 27 YELLOW 28 ROBERTS 29 HUMMINGBIRD 30 NEW YORK, PARIS, PECKHAM
DINGBAT ANSWERS
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1. All In Good Time 2. Apple Pie 3. Auld Lang Syne 4. Fortune Teller 5. Hot Water Bottle 6. Pancake 7. Rolling Stones 8. See Eye To Eye 9. Strawberry Shortcake 10. Tongue Tied
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