Cardiff Now DEC 2016/JAN 2017

CARDIFF

N W DEC 2016 ¯ JAN 2017

issue twenty¯SEVEN

A NEW YOU FOR

THE NEW YEAR Wales’ longest established Medical skin Clinic

See page TWO for more information

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

1

2

ISSUE twentyÂŻSEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

CONTENTS Cardiff Now 2nd Floor, Richardson House, 24 New Street, Worcester. WR1 2DP 01905 723011 www.pw-media.co.uk

is it time to pack up your belongings and seek the space you crave elsewhere, or could you fall back in love with your home if it was given a little (or a lot) of TLC?

ADVERTISE

Emma Cox Tel: 01905 727908 emma@pw-media.co.uk Suzie Scott Tel: 01905 727904 suzie@pw-media.co.uk

Editor

Dawn Pardoe PW Media & Publishing Ltd dawn@pw-media.co.uk

DESIGN

Paul Blyth

CONTRIBUTORS

Glynis Dray Ellie Philpotts Sarah Philpott Age Cymru Cardiff University Forces Fitness House of Colour Wildlife Trusts Wales

06

Make a Move for the Better?

12

COMPETITION WINNERS

A haircut and luxury treatment at Sassoon Salon in Cardiff C. Edwards, Llanharan A pair fo tickets to the Welsh Grand National J. Gray, Cardiff A pair of tickets to For Those About to Rock at Cardiff Tramshed K. Davies, Cardiff ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without permission. Colour transparencies, prints or any pictoral media for this publication are sent at owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken, neither PW Media & Publishing Ltd or its agents accept liability for loss or damage. No editorial submissions will be returned unless accompanied by a Self Addressed Envelope. DISCLAIMER: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that adverts and articles appear correctly, PW Media & Publishing Ltd cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by the contents of this publication. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of its publisher or editor.

Please note that if you enter a competition in the Cardiff Now magazine your name and address may be forwarded to the host of said competition.

16

Dormice Work at Coed Y Bedw, Cardiff

a traditional christmas?

18

Festive Winter Wonders

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

3

CONTENTS

36

24 win with forces fitness

Penarth Pier to Lavernock

32

Enjoy a tasty bake Seeded Pistachio and Squash Bake with all the Christmas trimmings

DEC 2016 jan 2017

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN

40 38

The New Year’s almost here and it’s a good time to take stock, look ahead to the next 12 months

what´s on over christmas

A guide to being an apprentice

44 4

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

48

Time to try something new this january at Cardiff University

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

5

homestyle

is it time to pack up your belongings and seek the space you crave elsewhere, or could you fall back in love with your home if it was given a little (or a lot) of TLC?

make a move for the better?

If you’ve fallen out of love with where you’re living then you have to decide whether to "do up" or "sell up".

N

ot enough bedrooms for your growing family? Empty nest? The layout not working for you and your children? Or maybe you’re

just sick of the avocado bath suite?

The house that was once your dream home can quickly start to look more like a nightmare. So is it time to pack up your belongings and seek the space you crave elsewhere, or could you fall back in love with your home if it was given a little (or a lot) of TLC?

6

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

>>

Inspiring Designs from Your Local Window & Door Specialist

“Amazing service, beautiful windows, a seamless service from start to finish”

Upvc & Aluminium Windows • Composite Doors French, Patio & Bifolding Doors • Upvc Sash Windows Visit our Website for Your Online Price Guide

www.inspirewindows.co.uk Tel: 02920 734 573

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

7

homestyle

To help you choose between doing

diner. Plus, any money you spend

mess and major changes like a loft

up and selling up we’ve taken a look

on improvements can add to your

renovation or extension can lead to

at the good, the bad and the ugly of

property’s value in the long term. Just

chaos for months. If you do any work

both options.

remember to be aware of your area’s

in your kitchen you may become well

ceiling price - the maximum amount

acquainted with the local takeaway if

Improving

a similar house has sold for in your

The good: You can put your own

area.

stamp on your home AND add value.

Renovating your home allows you to put your own stamp on it and make sure the space really works for you and your family. You can think about exactly what it is you need, and make changes you know will make your life easier, whether that’s an updated

8

The bad: There's some things you just can't change. Sadly you can’t pick up your house and move it so if there are things you don’t like about your neighbourhood or location - such as poor schools or a long commute – you’ll still be stuck with them.

your cooker is out of action.

Moving The good: You get a bright, shiny new home. You may be able to find the perfect property at the right price in the right location. If you can afford it, you'll be able to buy somewhere bigger, without the chaos of builders and the accompanying brick dust.

kitchen, creating an extra room in

The

the

You could find something ready to

the loft or knocking down a wall

destruction. Even seemingly simple

move into with a layout and set up

to create a family-friendly kitchen-

renovations can cause a lot of

that suits your household's needs

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

ugly:

Coping

with

>>

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

9

homestyle

better. You could end up with more

into the long term value of your

the for sale sign in the front lawn

space, a bigger garden in a better

home. Stamp duty adds up to £2,500

or get the builders in you need to

area. If you are downsizing then you

for a home worth £250,000 and

think carefully about what it is you

can release capital or even reach the

the more expensive home you buy

are looking for from your home and

nirvana point of having paid off the

the more you'll pay. Typical estate

how much money you can afford to

agent fees can be anything between

spend.

mortgage.

The bad: You may still have to do some work. How many houses have you seen on the market, in your price range, that you’d be happy to keep exactly as they are? You could move and still find yourself with work to do, whether it’s just giving some rooms a

10

0.75% and 3.5% of the selling price and run into thousands. Plus there are solicitors’ fees and even the price of hiring a van to consider. On downsizing the current figure for your new property not attracting Stamp Duty is only £125,000 so most

lick of paint or bigger jobs like fitting

new retirement properties will need

a new kitchen.

the tax budgeting for.

The ugly: The costs of moving soon

The verdict?

add up and the money doesn’t go

It’s a tough one. Before you bang

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

Still stuck? It’s also worth asking the experts. Get quotes from local tradesmen and the planning office to see what improvements are realistic and ask your local estate agent to send you details of houses that meet your requirements. Good luck and a great New Year whether moving or staying.

Dona’htubdbyetoladayy!

Antique & unusual furnishings and collectables in Cardiff

call

Why Not Visit Us For Unique Christmas Presents

Do you need any jobs done that you just don’t have the time or energy to do yourself?

Free Quotes • No Call Out Fees • Work Guaranteed GARDEN • Clean Ups • Pruning • Garden Sheds • Gutters • Rubbish Removal • Lawns & Edges • Clearing • Gutter Protection

OUTSIDE • Clothes Lines • Lattice Screens • Fences • Brick Work • Minor Paving • Timber Decking • Minor Concreting • Roof Repairs

INSIDE • Painting • Patch Plaster • Tiling • Picture Hooks • Hanging Doors • Shelving • Clothes Dryers

CLEANING • Windows • Bathrooms • Kitchen • Driveways • Ovens • Carpets • Motor Vehicles

OBB JOBS • Pet Doors • Dog Kennels • Assemblies • Smoke Detectors • Roof Vents • Sky Lights • Insulation AND MORE • Doors & Locks • Gutter Screening • Fly Screens • Window Locks • Light Globes • Hang Mirrors • General Repairs

CALL FREE 0800 111 4664 LEIGH COOMANSINGH 07598 283548

We boast 3 floors of unique stores offering antique furniture, period and contemporary, Fireplaces and Stoves, Garden Furniture, Matchbox & Corgis, Star Wars & film memorabilia, Clocks and Barometer’s, Re-upholstery work,bespoke kitchens, Militaria, books, crockery, porcelain, mirrors, giftware... and it goes on, visiting is a must!

Opening Times: Monday to Sunday 9.30am - 5.30pm • Ample Parking • On site Café

Penarth Road, Cardiff South Glamorgan, CF11 8TT

Tel: 0292 022 1085

www.thepumpingstation-cardiff.co.uk

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

11

homestyle

A TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS? Christmas Markets in the UK were very popular until Oliver Cromwell banned the celebration of Christmas in the fashion people had become used to, and the Christmas Markets died out instantly. There were of course many markets in Britain during the Victorian era which would sell Christmas related products and foodstuffs in the run-up to Christmas but they were not known as Christmas Markets.

O

n researching it transpires that our

Between that, the evolving of Father Christmas to the

nationalist feelings over Christmas have

foreign Santa, and the decline of the nativity play, it is

more to do with the enduring influence of

starting to feel like there isn't very much Britishness

the Victorians than any rational claim to an

left in our town Christmas’ any more.

age-old heritage. And the Victorians were influenced, well, by the Germans. It seems that this was not covered in the ITV program of Young Victoria, maybe it

he has become subsumed into the figure of Santa, who

happens in the next series.

was a Turk. Saint Nicholas, the 4th Century bishop of

Christmas was barely celebrated in the early 19th

part of modern Turkey; the Dutch garbled his name,

Century. Businesses didn't even close on the 25th

changing it from Sint Nikolaas to Sinterklass, and in

December. But once the German-born Prince Albert

1935, a Coca-Cola ad man called Haddon Sundblo

came on the scene, it was suddenly all the rage,

gave him his iconic red suit. After the depression

prompted largely by the famous etching of Queen

Coca-Cola thought we needed cheering up.

Victoria and family sitting around the Christmas tree at Windsor Castle, which was printed in the Illustrated News in 1848. Before then, the Christmas tree was largely a 16th Century German tradition, symbolising the Garden of Eden (it was mainly hung with apples).

Martin Luther, the German Protestant reformer, had the idea of adding candles to the tree, after seeing

12

Although Father Christmas is a tradition on these isles,

Myra, was from a region of Ancient Greece that is now

The Americans have a lot to answer for. Rudolf the RedNosed Reindeer was first created in 1939 by the American copywriter Robert L May, who created the character for the Montgomery Ward company, a Chicago-based chain of department stores. Reindeer is actually an old Norse word but I guess the North America cousin of

stars shining through the branches of a fir tree.

Caribou doesn’t have the same ring. Stockings started

Nowadays we have an influx of Christmas Markets

generosity, and his name day was marked by the giving

in every major city in the UK, with the largest being

of gifts. This became mixed with a dash of Scandinavian

German Christmas Markets – replacing mulled wine

paganism, as children would fill their shoes with straw

with Glühwein, and have stalls promoting gingerbread

and vegetables and leave them out to feed Odin’s horse,

and stollen.

Sleipnin and have them filled with sweets in return.

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

with the Turkish Saint Nicholas. He was renowned for his

>>

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

13

HOMESTYLE

In the 12th Century, a group of nuns defined the tradition by leaving stockings stuffed with goodies – including an apple and a satsuma – outside the houses of the poor. Those nuns were French.

Mistletoe? Gwent is famous for it and their sale but the tradition of kissing beneath the plant derives from a Norse legend in which the mischievous Loki uses a mistletoe arrow to kill Balder, the god of the sun.

Tinsel? Nope that came from seventeenthcentury Europe. Baubles? The Romans used them

Your guide to this year’ Christmas Markets; Cardiff Christmas Market: 10th November – 23rd December Now in its 22nd year, Cardiff transforms into a ‘Christmas City’

to symbolise the earth and the sun. Brussels

as over 80 stalls with a rolling programme of over 800 exhibitors

sprouts? They originated with the Romans, then

take centre stage. Located throughout the pedestrianised

the Dutch, then an Irish Christmas tradition.

streets of Cardiff city centre, including St John Street, St John's Church Area, Working Street, The Hayes, Hills Street and Trinity

Hurrah, Christmas crackers were invented by someone from the UK shores, a London sweet shop owner by the name of Tom Smith. He was inspired by the wrappers around French bonbons!

Christmas cards were first sent by Sir Henry Cole, head of the Victoria and Albert Museum, in 1843, who found himself too busy to write letters. These are slowly being replaced by the

Street. www.cardiffchristmasmarket.co.uk Swansea Christmas Street Market: 24th November – 21st December This Christmas, over 40 traders will arrive offering the best choice of arts, crafts, handmade gifts, fine foods, unique and personalised Christmas decorations and so much more. When you’re all shopped out, why not head over to the city’s Waterfront Winterland for some festive cheer? www.swanseachristmas.com Abergavenny Christmas Food Festival: 11th December With a huge array of the best regional speciality food producers

email or social media message that no Christmas

and demonstrations from top chefs, the Abergavenny Christmas

cards are being sent – all money given to charity,

Food Festival promises to be a great mix of good produce, festive

although the charities are not so confident. Still

cheer and tastings – all happening in and around Abergavenny’s

they originally started in the UK.

Market Hall and Brewery Yard. www.abergavennyfoodfestival.com

The pudding is also ours, even down to the sixpence at the bottom. In the 14th Century it was a sort of porridge made of mutton, beef, raisins, prunes, spices and wine, and used as a method of preservation. The tradition of the Christmas turkey, or goose, also originated in the UK, so did mince pies, though they were inspired

by Middle Eastern recipes picked up by the Crusaders abroad.

Caerphilly Christmas Market: 10th – 11th December Experience the sights, sounds and smells of a town and castle preparing for Christmas with traditional funfair rides, smells of mulled wine, captivating street theatre and over 100 food, craft & gift stalls. There’s also a separate Farmers Market and Craft Fayre complimenting the town’s mixture of independent & high street stores. www.caerphilly.gov.uk/Things-To-Do/Events If you want to re-live a Victorian Christmas, head over to Tredegar House in Newport as they ‘Get into the Christmas spirit as we

So there you have it. Aside from the turkey, mince

dress the house in traditional decorations and fill the house

pies, pudding and cards, Christmas is a largely

with music, merriment and festive feeling for a truly Victorian

European mélange.

experience’. Families can make a Christmas wish to hang on their wish tree, sing along with the choirs, play Christmas parlour

14

Maybe we all should embrace the non-British

games, make a pomander, stir the Twelfth Night Cake and create

traditions, or adopt some old Welsh ones? (See

Christmas crafts. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tredegar-house

page 37 for inspiration!)

for dates and prices.

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

15

NATURE NOTEBOOK

Dormouse © Amy Lewis

Dormice Work at Coed Y Bedw, Cardiff Located 3km north of Cardiff and managed by The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, Coed Y Bedw is an ancient broadleaved woodland and consists of various woodland types ranging

B

from dry beech woodland to wet alder carr.

eneath the canopy, there is a diverse

means providing woodland and hedgerows with a

assemblage of shrubs and flowers, many of

rich understory to give them a varied food source of

which are ancient woodland indicators such

nectar, berries and invertebrates.

as spindle, wild garlic and bluebells.

be any present at Coed y Bedw, WTSWW have installed

invertebrates, woodland birds and mammals including

dormouse nest boxes which are regularly monitored by

giant lacewings, wood warblers and badgers. However,

a dedicated volunteer, as well as carrying out woodland

one mammal species that has not yet been found

management to ensure that the reserve could support

at Coed y Bedw is the elusive dormouse. Dormice

the species if they find their way there. This involves

are distinctive sandy-coloured rodents with a thick

coppicing areas of hazel to ensure more light reaches

furry tail and they are expert climbers. They are a

the woodland floor which promotes the growth of

nocturnal species that spends the winter in a deep

ground flora and a diverse shrub layer. Coppicing on

torpor. Due to their elusive nature, their distribution isn’t as well known as other mammals; however they are concentrated in the south of the UK, probably because of climatic conditions. In South Wales, they are thinly spread across the country, with populations

16

Despite the fact that there aren’t currently thought to

This diversity of habitats supports a wide array of

rotation improves the woodland structure and ensures that a mixture of woodland rides and glades are created and maintained for a range of wildlife, including (potentially!) dormice…

concentrated in Carmarthenshire and Gwent. They

For more information on Dormice or the

are present on a number of Wildlife Trust reserves

work being carried out by The Wildlife

where they are regularly monitored and the habitats

Trust of South and West Wales please visit

managed to ensure that they can flourish. This

www.welshwildlife.org.

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

17

BEAUTIFUL

FESTIVE WINTER WONDERS The festive season is just around the corner. Here are a selection of products that are perfect for your Christmas celebrations or as an ideal gift for yourself, friends or family.

MAC

ELEMIS

Radiant skin in a flash, no

Online Exclusive Sweet Orchid Bath &

matter what the lighting

Body Stocking Filler. Hydrates, soothes and

conditions. M·A·C introduces

moisturises. Indulge your body and mind with

extended shades of strobe

the divine scent of orchids, and formulations

cream. Super-powered with

which soften and hydrate the skin.

potent botanicals, antioxidants and iridescent pearl particles, strobe cream de-stresses, desnoozes, hydrates, freshens and boosts the look of dull, tired-looking skin.

£24.50

18

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

£12.00

ELEMENTAL HERBOLOGY A luxurious cleansing balm rich in nourishing botanical oils to gently purify the skin whilst nurturing its delicate barrier function.

Includes a 100% cotton muslin cloth to help wipe away impurities.

£30.00

CHANEL

CLARINS

SHAVATA

A mascara that focuses

Festive Make-Up Palette with mineral and plant

Shavata’s Brow

on the essential. Length,

extracts. A sleek eco-designed palette with the

Strengthener is great if

curl, definition, volume

choice of 10 long-lasting eyeshadow shades.

you have over plucked

and care: it provides

The harmonious collection of wearable shades

your eyebrows: it will

just enough coverage to

includes six satin finishes, three matte finishes

stimulate the growth of

intensify the expression of

and one iridescent shade that deliver intense,

hair, nourish and thicken

the eyes and reveal their

luminous results. Create any make-up look this

eyebrows at the same

every dimension.

festive season, from classic chic to smokey sultry.

time. The product comes

£25.00

£35.00

in a tube with a roller ball applicator allowing easy absorption into the skin through massage.

£18.00 @CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

Stockist Details: MAC - 0870 034 2676 - www.maccosmetics.co.uk. Elemis - 0117 316 1888 - www.elemis.com or www. timetospa.co.uk. Elemental Herbology - www.elementalherbology.com.Chanel - 0207 493 3836 - www.chanel.co.uk.

Clarins - 0800 036 3558 - www.clarins.co.uk. Shavata - www.shavata.co.uk.

beautiful

19

BEAUTiful

PERFECT PARTY HAIR The Christmas season is well and truly in full swing! The team at the Ken Picton Salon is incredibly busy already, getting our clients party-season ready with bouncy blowdries, beautiful colours, intricate braids and more. We also have a fabulous in house beauty team who specialise in make-up, body treatments, nails and everything you’ll need to head into this season feeling a little extra sparkly.

My top tips for Christmas hair at home

in a sharp side parting, and secure into a low ponytail

To give your hair that instant healthy feeling, try my

at the nape of the neck. Twist the ponytail around

‘Posh Wash’ method. Apply 2-3 drops of Shu Uemura

itself into a bun and secure.

Essence Absolue to dry hair prior to shampooing, massage in and then shampoo as normal for the

TOP TIP: Style away any flyaway hairs by spraying a

silkiest feeling. Or for hair with staying power, do a

small amount of hairspray onto a blusher brush and

‘Double Blow Dry’. Apply your product and blow dry as

smooth down. This will give a softer finish without

usual. Then re-apply a touch more product to your dry

being crispy, which can happen when your apply

hair, and re-dry it in. It’s a trick we use in salon to give

product directly to the hair. If you want to dress it up,

you that 3-day blow dry that lasts and lasts.

look for an embellished hair accessory to add a festive twist.

Party hair for every skill leveL

20

A fuss-free sleek bun is the ideal style if you’re wearing

Loose textured waves work for everyone and will give

a statement necklace or earrings or if your outfit has

that effortless finish that works for all occasions from

a detailed neckline. Blow-dry your hair straight and

casual drinks to a formal party. Apply a texture gel to

smooth using a little oil and a soft bristle brush. Place

the hair – I like L'Oreal Professionnel Scruff Me –

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

>>

Relax this Christmas and New Year at The Mindfulness and Wellbeing Centre 8 Week Mindfulness Course (Mindfulness Level 1) All courses include a full day workshop plus 2 CDs and notes | £180 17th January 8 weekly sessions.

Special 20% Christmas offer with code: CN/8WKJ

Half-day mindfulness workshops Samye Foundation Wales A RANGE OF MINDFULNESS COURSES (+Free Children’s Mindfulness)

10% discount with code: CN/HDM

One Year Mindfulness Training (held over four weekends) The path to follow if you would like to be a mindfulness trainer.

Starting 21st & 22nd January. Contact us for further details.

BUDDHIST MEDITATION CLASSES & RETREATS

Compassion Based Living Course (CBLC) (Mindfulness Level 2)

HOLISTIC THERAPIES, COUNSELLING, PSYCHOTHERAPY

Includes three CDs, notes and a full day workshop | £180 9th January, eight weekly sessions. NB: you must have attended an eight week mindfulness course with us prior to attending this course.

QI GONG, T’AI CHI AND YOGA CLASSES

10% discount with code: CN/CBLCJ

ROOM HIRE FOR THERAPIES OR MEETINGS VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

A perfect gift for someone special | £30 Contact us for dates in January and February

7 Points of Mind Training with Gelong Thubten

Ideal practices for daily living. Module 3. 14th January 2017.

(Can be attended individually - you don’t need to attend every module) | £20 Thubten is also available for business conferences.

He is an international guest speaker.

250 Cowbridge Rd East, Canton, Cardiff, CF5 1GZ Telephone: 02920 228040 | Email: admin@sfwales.org

www.sfwales.org Samye Foundation, Wales Registered Charity No. 1122144 & Registered Company No. 05901855 Limited by Guarantee @CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

21

BEAUTiful

hair. Once all the hair has been curled, gently comb out the curl using a wide tooth comb, resting the hair into a vintage wave.

Colour Director Paul Dennison knows a thing or two about beautiful colour. “Ask your colourist for a bonding treatment during your next colour. L'Oréal’s new Smart Bond treatment is perfect for hair that’s been overprocessed and will leave hair feeling incredible. This season is all about healthy, shiny colour; brunettes are dark and expensive-looking (think Megan Fox and Mila Kunis); blondes go almond like Jennifer Lawrence and Cara Delevingne, and reds should look to Julianne Moore and Jessica Chastain as the perfect example for winter red.”

Ken Picton Salon 8 Mermaid Quay Cardiff CF10 5BZ 029 20 662080 info@kenpicton.com ww.kenpicton.com and rough dry your hair into a parting on the opposite side you would usually. This will confuse the roots, making them stand up and giving you plenty of volume. When the hair is dry, define the hair into curls using a ghd tong and finish with a light hold hairspray, separating with your fingers to personalise.

style away any flyaway hairs by spraying a small amount of hairspray onto a blusher brush and smooth down.

For those wanting to go glamorous this season, you really can’t beat vintage waves. To achieve this look, prep and dry the hair before reaching for the ghd Classic Curl Tong.

Separate the hair in inch thick square sections, wrapping the hair around the tong, being careful not to twist the hair as your work around. You almost want the process to be similar to wrapping ribbon around the barrel so keep it flat. Hold the hair on the tong for 5-8 seconds before gently slipping off into your hand to cool. Repeat this technique throughout the

22

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

23

COMPETITION

WIN A PLACE ON A FORCES FITNESS

2017 KICK START BOOTCAMP Established in 2007, Forces Fitness is a multi-award winning Company, whos accolades includes a South Wales Buisness of the year award and also a Theo Paphitis SBS Chosen by Theo himself.

T

hey provide a number of services from Outdoor

Set in the beautiful Afan Valley in South Wales, your weekend

Boot Camp sessions, One Day Boot Camps and there

includes:

fantastic Full Board Weekend Boot Camps. They work

B Two nights accommodation at the Lodge (arriving at 19:00 on

closely with local rugby clubs, schools and colleges. All

the Friday and departing at 16:00 on the Sunday)

their sessions are conducted outdoors and are instructed by

B Two full days of activities, challenges and exercise classes to

either ex members or serving members of the armed forces. All

get your heart pumping and burn fat – taken by our qualified

instructors all hold the relevant fitness qualifications and they

team who are all former Military Personnel (activities include

will be happy to drive you to achieve your goals! Their aim is

circuits, kettlebells, boxing circuits, mountain hike, log run,

to provide FUN FITNESS for everyone that takes part in their sessions or boot camps so, whether you are new to training or an experienced athlete, everyone is welcome.

self defence, team games and team building challenges)

B Diet and nutrition advice to help you make wiser food choices B Three healthy meals per day with fruit and unlimited juices and water available throughout

Are you struggling to find the motivation to exercise or start eating healthily? Do you know what you need to do to get fitter

All rooms are Military Style ensuite and sleep two, four or six

but can’t find the time to do it? Are you an individual or group of

people with a chill out area for you to relax and unwind (and

friends that want to take on a tough, but fun challenge? Well our

recover!) after a hard day’s work.

Kick Start Boot Camps could be the one for you!

We can’t promise you inch or weight loss in just three days but

Suitable for all ages 13+, all abilities and both genders, the weekend

we can promise that you’ll work hard, have fun and leave us

boot camps have been designed to kick start the journey to a

motivated to make a difference to your life.

healthier you – and our instructors will give you all the advice and tips you need to continue that journey at home beyond the three days.

Competition

For your chance to win a FREE place on a Forces Fitness 2017 Kick Start Bootcamp , simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

Which food is a high source of protein, omega 3 and good fats? a) Fish b) Chicken c) Carrots Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Forces Fitness CN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 19th January 2016.

ISSUE twenty SEVEN

24

Answer: Name:

Address: Tel: Email:

¯

Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

If you do not wish to receive information on forthcoming events, news and offers from Forces Fitness please tick this box

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

25

26

ISSUE twentyÂŻSEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

27

BEAUTiful

CARDIFF BEAUTY CLINIC Offering safe alternatives to cosmetic surgery with years of quality training and experience.

Here is just a sample of what Cardiff Beauty Clinic can do for you.

LIPO FREEZING This

FDA

cleared

creating smoother, brighter, healthier, younger-looking skin. procedure

suctions in the skin surrounding the area of fat you want to freeze, it then uses controlled cooling to drop the temperature of the skin down to where the fat cells die, the body eliminates the cells in the following weeks. The results are proven, noticeable and lasting!

LIPO CAVITATION Cavitation is used for body sculpting, a low frequency ultrasound targets fat cells and create tiny bubbles in the liquid, they gradually grow and implode, creating instant fat loss. It is perfect for working alongside fat freezing to target fat cells and the perfect solution for removing stubborn cellulite.

hyperpigmentation, stretch marks and sun damage; The treatment requires no down time and recovery times are shorter than Laser treatments. It naturally stimulates the skin to repair itself creating a thicker and healthier appearance and also improves the appearance of acne scarring and chicken pox scars. The number of treatments required depends on the problem being treated: 40% GLYCOLIC PEEL Glycolic acid, commonly used in anti-aging skin care treatments and skin peels, comes in several strengths or percentages of dilution. You can also dilute glycolic acid further by adding distilled water. Dilution is especially helpful in cases of sensitive skin. When used at 40 percent strength,

RADIO FREQUENCY

glycolic peels improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles,

SKIN TIGHTENING

acne, sun damage and age spots. Considered a superficial

Radio frequency energy treatment

peel, 40 percent glycolic peels treat the outer layer of skin,

is a non surgical treatment to target

and the results last for up to one month.

loose or sagging skin. RF is used to treat skin laxity by encouraging the collagen cells to reform and grow, it’s perfect for targeting loose skin after weight loss and loose stomachs after pregnancy.

HIFU NON SURGICAL FACELIFT Also known as ‘3D SkinMed’, ‘Ultrasound Facelift’ or ‘Ultherapy’, it has become one of the most sought after lifting treatments for face and neck.

The main advantages of the treatment are no cuts or surgery, no recovery time, no cuts to the skin, with noticeable results and results lasting for up to two years.

The treatment creates new collagen to help tighten, lift and give your skin a youthful glow. Clients see a noticeable improvement in fine lines, wrinkles, jowls and double chin.

DERMAROLLER The Genuine Dermaroller™ Therapy™ provides advanced micro-medical skin-needling, a procedure that stimulates the skin to regenerate and repair itself naturally and safely,

28

It reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, scarring,

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

MESOTHERAPY Mesotherapy is a baldness treatment alternative that allows both men and women with hair regrowth. It can also delay male pattern baldness.

Microdermabrasion Microdermabrasion dramatically improves your skin simply by passing a fine diamond head with a gentle suction over the skin.

This technique gently removes the dead skin cells and smoothes the surface of the skin through a process of exfoliation.

Visit www.cardiffbeautyclinic.co.uk to find out what other treatments we offer.

DECEMBER OFFER

Half Price Fat Freezing Upper and Lower Stomach for only £100 new beauty room Specialising in LVL Lashes, Hollywood Lashes, Gelish nails, intimate waxing, pedicures and manicures.

Get Hand and Feet Gelish nails for £35 for a limited time only!

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

29

BEAUTiful

Too much gobble, gobble?

Six steps to better digestion this holiday season Cheer and goodwill aren't the only things we share during the holiday season. We also swap germs, overindulge in seasonal foods and spirits, and stew in stress - all of which can lead to digestive woes.

Y

ou know you'll have to work hard at selfcontrol if you don't want the numbers on the scale to climb by the end of the holiday season. But you can also take steps to

minimize stomach upset, indigestion, bloating, reflux and general intestinal distress during the holidays.

So good yet so bad Holiday foods taste good because they're often rich and high in fat and sugar - qualities that cause not only weight gain but also digestive discomfort. During this hectic time of year, most of us eat more - especially at celebrations.

Giving up holiday treats and favourite dishes would be like going through the season without a single cornucopia or twinkling decoration. Rather than suffering digestive distress through indulgence, or choosing to deprive yourself entirely, start with a plan for how you'll deal with holiday digestive upset, then take action.

Steps to feel better Stay hydrated: The hectic pace of the holidays may make you forget to drink enough water. What's more, overindulging in holiday libations like cocktails, wine, champagne and beer can actually dehydrate

occasional holiday overindulgence. Taking a pro-biotic supplement, can support the growth of good gut bacteria that aid in digestion.

Reduce portion sizes: Reducing portion sizes can help ease holiday strain on your stomach and digestive tract. One easy trick for controlling portion sizes - serve yourself on a dessert-size dish, rather than a large dinner plate. Smaller portions will look like more on a smaller plate.

Limit variety: Whether a buffet or a sit-down dinner, holiday meals often feature multiple dishes that just

your body. Non-alcoholic sugary beverages like hot

look so good you want to try them all. Mixing too many

chocolate and pumpkin-flavoured coffees can also

different foods, however, can lead to stomach upset.

throw off your body's balance. Remember to drink

Trying everything - even if it's just a bite or two - can

plenty of water every day throughout the holidays.

rack up the calories, fat and sugar. Instead, choose

Prioritize food choices: Sure, that serving of

just a few favourites to have at each meal.

Christmas pudding looks great on the plate and tastes

Keep exercising: Along with all the other benefits

yummy going down, but will it be worth the heartburn

exercise brings, it can also promote digestive health.

and bloating you'll experience later? Raw veggies are

In addition to its positive physical effects, exercise can

a healthful and fibre-filled alternative to fatty hors

also help relieve holiday stress - a contributor to holiday

d'oeuvres, but be aware that raw vegetables can also

stomach upset. Whether it's an hour at the gym or 30

cause bloating and gas. Pay attention to the foods that

minutes on a yoga mat in your living room, it's important

trigger discomfort and decide how important they really

to maintain an exercise rĂŠgime throughout the holidays.

are. You may be able to substitute something else that's just as satisfying but less upsetting to your stomach.

Promote gut health: If your digestive tract is already

30

in good shape, it will be better equipped to handle

ISSUE twentyÂŻSEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

With some proactive steps, you can help ensure your holidays stay bright and your stomach stays healthy throughout the season.

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

31

FOOD & DRINK

Serves 6

minutes, until golden. While the

INGREDIENTS

squash is roasting you can get

For the base

B 100g shelled pistachio nuts B 100g sunflower or pumpkin seeds

B 100g vac-packed chestnuts B 2 tablespoons olive oil B 1 tablespoon maple syrup B Grated zest of 1 Enjoy this tasty bake (top right) with all the Christmas trimmings

SEEDED

PISTACHIO AND SQUASH BAKE

unwaxed lemon

B A small bunch of fresh thyme, leaves picked

B Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

in the UK, you won’t be sitting down to turkey and all the trimmings this Christmas. If you’re fed up with yet another nut roast, try this delicious seeded pistachio and squash bake which is completely vegan, although

perfectly with roast potatoes and pan fried sprouts.

Sarah Philpott is a Cardiff-based food blogger with an avocado addiction.

Find out more at veggingit.wordpress.com

32

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

or pumpkin seeds on a baking tray and roast in the hot oven alongside the squash for 5 minutes. Remove the tray of nuts and seeds (leaving the squash to carry on roasting) and tip them into a food processor with the chestnuts, olive oil, maple syrup, lemon zest, thyme and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Blitz until you have a fine crumbly paste that comes together when you squeeze it.

If it’s too crumbly, add a touch

For the spinach topping

into a solid piece when you

B 75g cashew nuts, soaked

scrunch it in your hands.

overnight if you remember

B 1 ripe avocado, halved and destoned

B 2 big handfuls of spinach B Juice of 1⁄ 2 a lemon

4 Spread the mixture evenly at the base of a large ovenproof dish and pop into the oven alongside the squash for 15–20 minutes, until golden around the edges. Take it out and let it cool a little.

To finish

B 1⁄ 2 a small butternut squash, slices

B Olive oil 1 red onion, peeled and finely sliced

B 1 red chilli, sliced

you can top it with feta cheese. The fresh and zesty flavours will make your taste buds sing and it goes

3 Put the pistachios, sunflower

more oil until it comes together

deseeded and cut into 0.5cm If you’re one of the 1.2 million vegetarians and vegans

on with everything else.

METHOD 1 Preheat the oven to 200°C/ fan 180°C/gas 6.

2 Pop the squash on a baking

5 Meanwhile, fry the red onion in a little oil with a pinch of salt until deep violet, sweet and just starting to colour (this will take about 10 minutes). Now put all the topping ingredients – soaked cashews, avocado flesh, spinach and lemon juice – into a blender with a good amount of salt and pepper and blitz until you have a smooth green paste.

6 Once the base has cooled a little, spread it with the spinach topping and scatter over the red

tray with some salt and pepper

onion, squash and red chilli. If

and a drizzle of olive oil,

you eat cheese, you can sprinkle

and roast in the oven for 30

over a bit of feta too.

go fresh, go healthy, go wok to go

A family run restaurant with a small team of dedicated and friendly staff

Opening hours

Our produce is delivered daily ensuring the freshest ingredients possible

Mon-Fri: 11.30-23.00 Sat-Sun: 16.30-23.00

Meals are cooked to order in an open style kitchen

Delivery

Please let us know of any food allergies or dislikes

Mon-Thurs: 18.00-22.30

We do not add salt or MSG to our meals We can recommend dishes if you are unsure

Tel: 02920 691118

www.woktogocardiff.co.uk

Fri-Sat: 17.00-22.30 Available on the

App Store

110 Caerphilly Road, Birchgrove, Cardiff, CF14 4QG

CARDIFF

N W if you would like to advertise in OUR next issue please contact one of our sales team Emma Cox Tel: 01905 727907 emma@pw-media.co.uk

Suzie Scott Tel: 01905 727904 suzie@pw-media.co.uk @CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

33

FOOD & DRINK

LAB 22, cardiff Considerate Cardiff offers its residents a whole spectrum of activities to keep boredom at bay. Yes, sometimes these are at Cardiff Bay itself. But at the end of the day (quite literally), we all like a few drinks.

H

owever, if you’re seeking somewhere that packs more punch than the bog-standard chain, look no further than Lab 22. Perched in a pretty paradoxical location – it’s on Caroline Street aka Chippy Lane, of

which visiting forms an integral part of every Cardiff night out - but is simultaneously difficult to track down, slotted above Greggs on the corner. Yet although we have nothing against the trademark sausage roll and it may in fact be perfect for curing the subsequent hangover, Lab 22’s similarities end there.

Its website promises you’ll ‘experience something unique’, and sure enough, Lab 22 juggles lots of different styles, but this in no way loses its appeal. As the name suggests,

it’s partially science-themed, with laboratory-style motifs dotted around, and some drinks served in dramatically scientific-looking containers. It’s not all futuristic though – on Mondays they turn to the other direction and take a step back in time. Alliteration abilities aren’t Moonshine Mondays’ only talents – you really get a taste for the Roaring 20s, and, although the drinks, from Rye Old-Fashioned to Silver Bullet, ooze with glamour, they’re not the only reason this evening is worth talking about. The whole aura, including newspapers apparently lifted straight from the time itself and authentic live jazz until 1am, really does the job of making you forget the outside world having stepped into a very sleek time capsule.

It seems Lab 22 are fans of the vintage vibe, with other events including ‘Nostalgia’, their take on the Friday Feeling, but the other styles they so smoothly envelope into their small venue are perhaps harder to categorise. The Mystery Nights will keep you in the dark until you arrive (or even afterwards too, as the blaring lights often associated with bars are nowhere to be found in Lab 22); while Buddha ornaments; glitzy ceilings and fun, quirky quotes are splashed around elsewhere. Of course, the real reason you’d be at Lab 22 is for the drinks themselves, but the entire ambience is so impressive it can’t go without praise. You’re bound to discover something new every time you visit.

Onto the menu – and wow, it’s fair to say Lab 22 are convincing us that bar-tending is indeed an art. The individuality translates into every drink – each has so evidently been treated with precise focus. As well as ever-updating choices and names verging on ingenious, the staff take time in considering how to best compliment specific drinks.

34

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

FOOD & DRINK

While you can visit Lab 22 for a number of reasons, such as the Perks After-Work Menu or Bartenders’ Special, their Five or Seven Course Tasters provide you with the full Lab Experience. My friends and I had the Three Course, and not only is each round completely distinct to the previous, but you never know what you’re going to get, as the team think long and hard in advance about what to conjure up next.

Repetition is banished entirely from the walls of Lab 22, and in its place comes inventive options, which, this time, began with ‘Sun of a Beach’, a very tropical concoction making us forget the dark Welsh winter, despite the rain’s best attempts. With Chairman’s Reserve Rum paired with fruity favourites like lime, pineapple and pear and even a beach formed of chocolate ‘sand’ pebbles, this was a tough act to follow, however the ‘Death in the Afternoon’ did a pretty commendable job. As we’re English Literature students, the name alone was enough to warrant some appreciation, but tasting the combination of gin, absinthe, sugar, lemon and prosecco, alongside the incredibly unique accomplice of fried chicken (actual chicken, not a particularly daring cocktail, I hasten to add), referencing common last meals on Death Row, broke every convention associated with evening cocktails, yet was certainly memorable.

With staff who go the extra mile at every stage; ingredients you might not have initially put together but are sure to appreciate; and an eclectic yet classy hybrid of styles, Lab 22 is one to get to know. I had an unforgettable experience so would without a doubt recommend it whatever the occasion.

LAB 22, 22 CAROLINE STREET, CARDIFF, CF10 1FG Tel: 02920 399997 www.lab22cardiff.com

By ELLIE PHILPOTTS

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

35

KEEPING ACTIVE Start/Finish: This circular walk starts and finishes at the main entrance to Penarth Railway Station, south-west of Cardiff Bay. Public Transport: Nearest Railway Station is at Penarth with regular trains from Cardiff that connect with many other services. Please check ‘Traveline’ and timetables before you embark on your journey. Parking: There is parking around the town of Penarth.

Please do not use the station car park as ‘rail users’ will need it. O/S Map: Explorer 151. Distance: 5.5 miles. (Shorter 4 mile option to Cosmeston Lakes and back). Time: Allow minimum of 4 hours and set off early in the winter months. Refreshments: There are food shops near the station in Penarth, a café at the Cosmeston Country Park and snacks near Penarth Pier. Terrain: Most of the walk is flat, along surfaced paths but there are several flights of steps. Wheelchairs and pushchairs would manage a ‘there and back’ route along the old railway line to Cosmeston Lakes Country Park or a ‘there and back’ route along the ‘Esplanade’. Comfortable lightweight boots will suffice for most of the walk. There are several sections liable to be muddy after rain. Parts of the coast path are uneven. There are gates, ‘kiss-gates’ and steps. Please keep away from the edge of the cliff due to coastal erosion. History: You will be walking along several miles of disused railway line from near Penarth Station.

There are a number of old bridges crossing this line. Part of the route passes a reconstructed Medieval Village at Cosmeston Country Park. You will also see waterfowl and other birds and animals along the way. The pier is over 100 years old and is one of only two along the South Wales coast. In the summer, occasional paddle steamers still call here. You will pass Marconi Point where the first radio messages were sent from to the nearby ‘Flat Holm’ Island. The other island is ‘Steep Holm’. There are also relics of searchlights and a military antiaircraft battery along the coast dating from the 1940’s. At Lavernock, there is a small nature reserve, maintained by volunteer work-parties every Friday and you will see the tiny Church and Marconi’s Tower nearby.

1: From Penarth Railway Station, walk up approach road turning left down Station Road. At junction turn left and from railway bridge go down steep flight of uneven steps (to avoid steps turn right then left down road) onto disused railway line. This railway once served Lavernock, Swanbridge and Sully. Turn right through avenue of trees.

2: After half a mile you reach Rowan Close, keep walking straight ahead to mini-roundabout. Cross to railway path beyond and

walk beneath another bridge before it climbs gently uphill.

3: At Cosmeston Drive turn right and walk to main road before crossing to Cosmeston Lakes Country Park opposite. Walk down footpath on right to Visitor’s Centre, lakes, cafe and WC. (short walk option explores this Country Park then returns to Penarth Station).

4: From Visitor’s Centre, walk along ‘board-walk’ following signs to Medieval Village, a fascinating reconstruction of the thatched stone cottages that once stood here (free entry 10am to 12 noon). From ‘village’ entrance, turn left along bridleway leading to main road, taking footpath through kiss-gate on left that skirts edge of Medieval Village and exits on main road. Cross with care.

5: Walk down Fort Lane opposite, crossing line of old railway. At Lavernock, there is a lovely nature reserve through gate on right with some interesting WW2 relics. There is also a pretty Chapel on your left. Go through gate at end of surfaced lane to Lavernock Point with your first view of the sea. On a clear day you will see North Somerset Coastline and high land of Exmoor across Bristol Channel.

6: Facing sea, turn left and walk northwards along Wales Coast Path to Marconi Point and ‘Tower’ from which, in 1897, he received first radio messages across water from nearby island ‘Flat Holm’.

Follow coast path through tree tunnel along this scenic coastal route and over a footbridge to exit on cliff top overlooking Penarth with its landmark Church.

7: Go through wooden kiss-gate out onto wide swathe of grass overlooking the beach and pier, beyond which is Cardiff Bay with Welsh Mountains as a back-drop. When the visibility is particularly good, you can see new Severn Bridge with towers of old bridge peeping up behind.

8: Just follow path as it gradually drops down to Esplanade with its pier, built 1894 (one of two remaining pleasure piers along South Wales Coast). ‘Balmoral’ (built 1949) and ‘Waverley’ (built 1946 - the last passenger carrying sea-going paddle-steamer) still sail from here. Penarth has featured in TV shows, ‘Upstairs Downstairs’, ‘Dr. Who’ and ‘Casualty’. Overlooking Esplanade are Italian Gardens designed by Ursula Thompson, the first female gardener to graduate from Kew Gardens. Ornate Victorian buildings along Marine Parade were once homes of wealthy coalmagnates, ship owners and sea captains.

9: From the pier, cross Beach Road to Alexandra Park (Built 18991902). Climb gently to highest point of Park to exit onto Beach Road.

10: Turn left along Rectory Road and left along Stanwell Road, over cross-roads to shopping area and left down to Penarth Railway Station where walk ends.

Written and Illustrated by Glynis Dray

36

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

Penarth Pier to Lavernock

living history

A Yn draddodiadol Wesh Nadolig a'r Flwyddyn Newydd Growing up in England with a Welsh mother and an Italian father was confusing enough, especially when you more than

I

identify with the Welsh culture; and you actually yearn to be Welsh from a young age.

remember teachers, friends and colleagues looking at me blankly

bells at Christmas time. Some sources claim it represents the donkey

when seemingly normal phrases such as ‘Cwtch’ and ‘Ych a fi’ slipped

which took Mary to Bethlehem; some claim it was employed in a pre-

into conversation. Many a red cheek moment was had through my

Christian ritual to mark the festival of Samhain. All we know is that it’s

already awkward teenage years.

a little odd.

One thing I love about working with Cardiff NOW is the fact I’m allowed,

There are also conflicted tales of where it originated too, some say

encouraged even to embrace my Welsh heritage and explore the Land

north Wales some say south. Some sources also state it was more of

of my Fathers (or my Mother in this case) Daffodils adorn my Welsh

a New Year tradition than Christmas.

corner of the office on St Davids Day, Welsh editorials are specifically written for Cardiff NOW and finally people I speak to can pronounce my dogs name. I guess the only thing left to do is learn the language…

2017 New Year’s resolution I guess?

So you can image how excited I was when I started to research Welsh

What we do know is that once the decorated horse’s skull was placed on a wooden stick, a group of men would travel around the town, knock on your door and challenge you to a battle of rhyming insults or Welsh verse.

Christmas & New Year traditions. Expecting to find very few and being

This strange tradition still takes place in some part of Wales and will

overwhelmed…. Here’s a few of my favourites – not that you need an

run as part of a Chepstow Mari Wassail on 21st January 2017. Visit

‘English’ girl to tell you…

www.chepstowwassailmari.co.uk for more information.

Taffy – a Christmas Eve custom

Wassail - before mulled wine and punch,

Noson Gyflaith was a traditional part of Christmas and New Year

there was Wassail

festivities in some areas of Wales during the late 19th century. Families

This is a tradition that went hand-in-hand with Mari Lwyd and other

would invite friends to their homes for supper followed by games,

Christmas get-togethers. Just as we drink mulled wine and punch at

making taffy, and storytelling.

Christmas and New Year parties nowadays, a Welsh Christmas at the

Traditionally, Toffee/Taffy was boiled in pans on open fires and dollops were dropped into icy cold water. The taffy curled into all sorts of shapes - like letters. This was a way of divining the initials of the younger, unmarried family members' future loves.

turn of the century involved drinking from the wassail bowl. These bowls were often elaborate, ornate and many-handled. The bowl was filled with fruit (mainly apples), sugar, spices and topped up with warm beer. As it was passed around, the drinkers would make a wish for a successful year's farming and a bumper crop at harvest time. Although

Plygain (Singing… of course its singing.

the wassail bowl has been a tradition in Wales for many years, its origins

That’s what the Welsh do, right?)

are not uniquely Welsh. The tradition of Wassailing was to bless the

Attending a Plygain service from 3am-6am on Christmas morning was

apple trees so that they would bring about a good harvest the following

once a key festive tradition in 19th century rural Wales. Many would

Autumn and was largely popular in Somerset, Cornwall, Devon and

stay awake through the night (maybe making Taffy??) In the dark hours

other Cider making counties in the South West of England.

on the morning of Christmas Day, before the cockerel crowed, men gathered in rural churches to sing. They sang mainly unaccompanied, three or four part harmony carols in a service that went on for three

Calennig – no, it’s not a pasta The question is was trick or treat invented in Wales? Well, for centuries

hours or so to welcome in the celebrations of Christmas Day.

something very similar has been going on. From dawn until noon on New

The Plygain tradition still lives on in many areas of Wales and often

door, singing rhymes, carrying three-legged totems, splashing people

plays a role in the Cadw Christmas events calendar at sites such as

with water and asking for calennig, which were gifts of small change.

Tintern Abbey and St Davids Bishop’s Palace.

Holming…. Okay this one doesn’t sound too Welsh?

Boxing Day was celebrated in early 19th century Wales with the unpleasant ritual of “holming.” Thankfully now an extinct custom, the last person to get out of bed in the morning would be beaten with prickly holly sprigs. Ouch!

Mari Lwyd - The grey mare that brings good luck?

I’ve read a lot about Mari Lwyd, mainly to understand the symbolic value of a horse’s skull draped in a white sheet and decorated with

Year’s Day, children in early 19th century Wales would go from door to

Hunting the wren On the Twelfth Night in 19th century Wales, groups of men would go out ‘Hunting the Wren’. Once captured, the tiny bird would be caged in a wooden box and carried door-to-door for all to see. Householders would pay for the privilege of peeping at the poor wren in the box in the hope it would bring them luck.

Cyfarchion y Tymor By emma Cox @CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

37

golden years

New year, new you The New Year’s almost here and it’s a good time to take stock, look ahead to the next 12 months and make some positive changes in our lives.

T

hat sense of renewal and of a fresh start that

Get active

we often feel is a good opportunity to try our

It’s never too late to start being more physically

hand at something new and different.

active because physical activity is beneficial for

Why not take up a new hobby?

people of all ages and abilities.

A hobby is a chance to learn new skills and find the

The physical and mental effects from regular

creative you that’s been hiding away for all these

exercise can also help manage a lot of different

years.

health conditions, such as high blood pressure or

They say there’s a book in all of us – how about

diabetes.

putting pen to paper or getting onto your computer

The greatest benefits are gained when you start

and having a go at writing your own masterpiece?

taking part in regular physical activity even if you’ve been inactive for a while – you can begin to notice

Perhaps you fancy trying your hand at painting?

Water colours, oil paints or acrylics?

And remember, as well as the physical benefits of

Or how about enrolling with your local amateur

being more active, there are also many psychological

dramatics society, or perhaps there’s a photography

and emotional benefits.

group that meets in your area?

38

the difference as soon as you get started.

Being more physically active can help you to de-

Whatever you fancy, being creative can give you

stress and that means you’ll be better able to cope

stimulation, a sense of achievement and a chance to

with life’s worries and be more relaxed which should

get out and about to meet other like-minded people.

help you enjoy a better night’s sleep.

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

golden years

And as with starting up a new hobby, introducing more

So pick up the phone and dial 08000 223 444 to see if my

physical activity into your life can give you a renewed sense

colleagues are able to help you.

of achievement and increased confidence.

Volunteering

Are you getting all your entitlements?

Finally, have you ever thought about volunteering? If you’ve

Do you struggle to make ends meet? If so, it’s worth having a

got some spare time on your hands, volunteering with a

benefits check. You may find you’re entitled to extra money

charity can be very rewarding.

from the government that you didn’t know you should be receiving.

You can put your skills and knowledge to use by helping

For example, did you know that an estimated £168 million

process.

in Pension Credit in Wales goes unclaimed every year?

people in your community and learn new skills in the

Age Cymru’s Physical Activity team is now looking for

On average, that’s worth £34 a week or £1,772 a year which

volunteers in the Cardiff area to help with our Tai Chi and

could make a real difference to the lives of many older people.

LIFT programmes.

Age Cymru’s information and advice service – Age Cymru

If you’d like to find out more about these opportunities,

Advice, can give you a benefit check.

please call us on 029 2043 1555.

This will help you to identify and claim entitlements you

Happy New Year!

should be receiving, such as Pension Credit.

Angharad Phillips

One phone call to Age Cymru Advice - a free, confidential,

Health Initiatives Officer

impartial and bilingual service, could help you find out if

Age Cymru

you’re entitled to extra money.

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

39

EDUCATION

A GUIDE TO APPRENTICESHIPS Get your career started. Find out what it’s really like to be an apprentice – the opportunities, the benefits of earning now and just how far an apprenticeship can take you in the future.

T

here has never been a

hours per week and an apprenticeship

You will have responsibilities to your

better time to consider

takes between one and five years to

employer and your colleagues and

an apprenticeship. Young

complete, depending upon the level of

you’ll be working as part of a team.

people can ‘get in and go

apprenticeship and the industry sector.

far’ with an apprenticeship at some

companies

outstanding facilities for their staff.

skills you need to do the job well.

These include sporting and social

The rest of the training is given by

activities and a range of other

level, while working and earning.

a training organisation, either at

opportunities.

the workplace, off-site (perhaps at

finding out about these benefits from

AppreNticeships – the FActs

college) or via e-learning.

an employer at your interview or once

they

can

gain

the

skills and knowledge they need to succeed, in some cases up to degree

If you live in Wales and are over 16 you can apply for an apprenticeship.

There

are

various

levels

of

apprenticeship you can undertake depending on your current skills and

qualifications:

Intermediate

apprenticeship (level 2); Advanced apprenticeship

(level

3);

Higher

apprenticeship (levels 4-7); Degree

It’s

a

employ

the workplace, so you will learn the

companies.

have

that

apprentices

of Britain’s biggest and brightest

range

always

of

worth

you’ve started your apprenticeship.

The training is specifically tailored to ensure you develop the skills

Every

the

giving

different, but you can expect your

apprentices a real advantage in

working day to be varied, stimulating

the workplace. This means that

and challenging. You will be learning

apprentices not only have better

new skills and meeting new people

employer

wants,

long term salary prospects, but they also have excellent progression

apprenticeship

role

is

in a new environment and you may be working with colleagues or the general public for the first time. You

apprenticeship (levels 6-7)

opportunities, whether looking to

All apprenticeships are real jobs so all

within the workplace.

for your employer, which can be a

the LiFe oF AN AppreNtice

school or college. But whatever

An apprenticeship isn’t like going to

your role you know that everybody

employers pay significantly more.

college or university. As an apprentice

is working towards the same goal –

you will be doing a real job in a real

your success and the success of the

Apprentices should work for at least 30

workplace – and getting paid for it.

business you are working in.

apprentices earn a salary. You must be paid at least the national minimum apprenticeship wage – and many

40

Many

Most of the training is delivered in

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

study further or climb the ranks

will also be getting used to working very different environment from

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

41

EDUCATION

CREATING THRILLS AND SKILLS FOR LIFE

A

The Pauline Quirke Academy is a weekend performing arts school for 4-18 year olds.

ctress Pauline Quirke told us, “When we

forget! The second is the chance to perform on a

opened our first academy in 2007 our

West End stage in PQA’s show The Lazy Ace.

mission was simply to provide the very best performing arts education. We've grown a

lot since then, but that mission hasn't changed. By working with people we believe are outstanding in their field, we aim to bring the widest, most exciting experience to our students in an environment that is both friendly and rewarding.”

Students spend three hours with us, rotating through hour long sessions in Comedy & Drama, Musical Theatre and Film & Television. Our specialist modules, packed full of tips that Pauline has learnt from nearly 50 years in the business, will teach you everything you need to know to act, sing, dance or direct like a professional.

As well as many in-house productions and showcases there are two stand-out highlights for all PQA students. The first is the chance to see their short film projects on the big screen of their local cinema, where they get to walk down the red-

42

PQA students also have the chance to join our exclusive agency for professional work – Quirky Kidz Creative Management Agency. QK have plenty of success stories to boast about. The BBC’s hit drama Peaky Blinders features Alfie Evans-Meese from PQA Wolverhampton and other students have appeared in Casualty, EastEnders, Doctors and Les Miserables, as well as countless pop videos for groups including One Direction. QK clients have also had success on the stage, including students in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in the West End, and there has been a stream of clients who have won parts in commercials.

Tom Barker, Principal of PQA Cardiff said “I am delighted to provide the young people of Cardiff with such a unique performing arts experience.

We teach a comprehensive range of skills, which are useful for everyday life, not just a career in the performing arts. Due to popular demand we hope to open a new Academy in Spring!”

carpet just like the Hollywood stars. Some of these

PQA Cardiff is enrolling now, classes run on

films even get selected for the Cineworld/ PQA Film

Saturdays from 9.45am-1pm. Find us at Ysgol

Festival, where winning films are shown on the

Treganna, Sanatorium Road, Cardiff, CF11 8DG. For

big screen at the Cineworld Leicester Square in a

more information or to book a free taster session

glamorous event students and parents will never

call 0800 531 6282 or visit www.pqacademy.com

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

St John’s College The Best A-level Record in Wales over 17 Years

S

t John’s College is celebrating outstanding A-level results again this year, with 81.9% A* / A grades, 96.6% A* / A / B grades and 100% pass rate. Its sixth-formers, including a significant number with 4 A* / A grades, are proceeding to Oxbridge and top Russell Group universities, including medical and dental schools.

St John’s College is frequently ranked top school in Wales in The Sunday Times ‘Parent Power’ based on combined A Level and GCSE performance. Its most recent Estyn inspection report graded the school ‘excellent,’ including the seldom-awarded ‘excellent’ grade for quality of teaching, and observed that the school achieves ‘exceptional outcomes for pupils of all abilities’ (Crown Copyright, 2012).

The school has a very distinguished record of success in university admissions. Its most recent sixth-form cohorts are studying Architecture (Cambridge), Biology (Oxford), Dentistry (King’s College London), Economics (Cambridge), Engineering (Imperial College), History and Economics (London School of Economics), Law (Bristol and King’s College London), Maths (Imperial College), Medicine (Cambridge and Oxford), Music

(Bristol and Oxford) and Politics and International Relations (London School of Economics), for example.

Throughout the school there is an extensive and varied sports programme, with regular sport and ski tours, and a high number of county players. A wide range of extra-curricular clubs and societies includes ample opportunity for drama, performance and public speaking, as well as established high-level career and volunteering opportunities. The College is proud of its national success in chess, public speaking, debating, poetry, maths, science, engineering, F1 in Schools and Young Enterprise competitions. Its awardwinning Concert Orchestra gives warmlyreceived public concerts, and its Cathedral Choir has appeared in a major Hollywood film, and sings annual broadcasts on BBC Radio 4. Recent concert tours include Paris, Bruges and Madrid.

St John’s College has an enviable musical reputation. A remarkable number of its maths and science students proceed to medical school and the most competitive university courses and are also grade 8 and diploma-level musicians. One of its oboists, Morgan Foley, obtained the highest mark in WJEC Further Maths (600/600) and is now studying Physics at Trinity College Cambridge.

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

43

EDUCATION

time to try something

new this january?

With the New Year just around the corner, are you looking for a new challenge? This may be the perfect opportunity.

C

ontinuing and Professional Education at Cardiff University offer part-time courses in a wide range of subjects to study at different levels. Most don’t require existing

qualifications, just an interest in the subject area and take place at a convenient time to fit in with your lifestyle, as many are run during the evenings or at weekends. We offer courses in;

B Humanities B Languages B Business and Management B Computer Studies B Politics and International Relations/Law B Science and Environment B Social Studies We also offer part-time Pathways to a Degree courses to help you achieve your ambition of studying for a degree at Cardiff University. Pathways are designed for those with life experience and we welcome

44

B Politics and International Relations B English Language, Literature and Philosophy B History, Archaeology and Religion B Modern Languages B Translation B Social Science B Business Management or Accounting B Journalism, Media and Cultural Studies B Healthcare Pathways to a Degree Open Day Come along to speak to our Pathways Coordinators who will be able to discuss your learning options.

Date: Wednesday 11th January 2017 Time: 12.00 – 2.00pm Venue: Cyber Cafe,

Continuing and Professional Education,

21-23 Senghennydd Road,

Cardiff, CF24 4AG

applications from students who may have been away

For more information Tel: 029 2087 0000

from formal education for several years. Subject areas

Email: learn@cardiff.ac.uk

include;

www.cardiff.ac.uk/learn

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

45

our events diary

Chapter celebrates Christmas

with jam-packed programme

of theatre, film and events

C

hristmas at Chapter means a packed and diverse programme of theatre, film and events – there is something for everyone, even the grumpiest Grinch!

Returning to Cardiff due to huge demand is Welsh theatre company Dirty Protest’s production of Last Christmas by Matthew Bulgo (910 December). For younger audiences and their families, Likely Story Theatre present classic Norwegian fairy tale, The Giant Who Had No Heart in His Body (19 December) – expect original music, puppetry and a sprinkling of magic!

There is Chapter’s usual great selection of films, including festive classics It’s A Wonderful Life (21-24 December) and Muppets Christmas Carol (3, 4, 17, 21, 24 December).

Chapter also plays host to lots of other seasonal events, including the Oh So Crafty Christmas Fair (3 and 4 December) and the Festive Food Fair (18 December), and Chapter’s Café, Box Office and Shop will all be open over the festive period – perfect for a glass of mulled wine or last minute stocking filler.

For more information, a full schedule of events and to book tickets call Chapter’s Box Office on 029 2030 4400 or visit www.chapter.org

46

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

SWIM CHAMPS

S

wim Champs is the only

an ideal way for you to bond

swim school in Wales

with your baby and help with

run by two time Olympic

their co-ordination skills and

medalist David Davies. David also

won

medals

at

the

physical development.

Commonwealth Games, World

Children's learn to

and European Championships

swim lessons ages 3+

before retiring from his career as a professional athlete.

We pride ourselves on the high quality of all our swimming

David now runs a number of

lessons. All delivered by ASA

Swim Schools across South

qualified teachers. The main

Wales with his wife and fellow

emphasis of all the lessons

International swimmer Laura.

is to get children hooked on

Laura also represented her

swimming

country in water polo which is another aquatic activity children

entolled

in

Swim

Champs get to experience.

Swim champs offers lessons from

birth

through

to

competitive squad swimmers, and also offers a comprehensive programme

of

private

1:1

lessons ranging from nervous beginners through to adult ironmen/triathletes.

Baby champs 0-18

by

ensuring

all

lessons are fun and children are learning and developing life skills.

To get your budding Olympians off to a flying start get in touch today.

All Cardiff classes take place from DW gym Capitol Retail Park, Leckwith CF11 8EG. www.swimchamps.co.uk

months and Toddler

Dave Davies

champs 18-36 months

Director

These teacher led sessions are

New weekend classes added!

Swim Champs @CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

47

our events diary

DECEMBER

Roat

Tel: 02920 522600

Cardiff, CF24 3JW

Email: fundraising@bobathwales.org

Cost: £6.50 to £25.00 (family)

www.bobathwales.org

CHRISTMAS POP UP

Time: 11am, 2pm, 6pm

Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th CRAFT MARKET The Red Dragon Centre Centre Management Suite Hemingway Road Cardiff, CF10 4JY Time: 11am – 10pm (8pm on Sun) Explore up to 12 bustling craft stalls nestled in the hub of The Red Dragon Centre, positioned perfectly alongside our fun-packed

Tel: 02920 483344

Friday 9th

www.thegate.org.uK

THE TOOTSIE ROLLERS Wales Millennium Centre

Sunday 4th

Bute Place

CRAFTS FOR CHRISTMAS

Cardiff Bay

St Donats Arts Centre

CF10 5AL

Atlantic College

Time: 9pm – 10:30pm

St Donat’s Castle

Tickets: £12

Llantwit Major

Tel: 029 2063 6464

Vale of Glamorgan CF61 1WF

Friday 9th – Saturday 24th

Time: 10.30am – 4.30pm

WONDERMAN

Christmas gift or stocking filler this

Cost: £6.00 per car or £2.00

Wales Millennium Centre

year, this brand new showcase

per person on foot.

Bute Place

will be sure to tempt you.

Come along to our annual Crafts

Cardiff Bay

www.thereddragoncentre.co.uk

for Christmas Fayre to browse a

CF10 5AL

wonderful collection of OVER 50

Time: 8pm – 11pm

Saturday 3rd – Sunday 18th

STALLS including jewellery, wood,

Matinee: Saturday 17 &

SANTA’S POST OFFICE

glass, ceramics, textiles, craft and

Saturday 24th at 3pm

Mermaid Quay

so much more! Enjoy FESTIVE

Tickets: £12

Management Suite

ENTERTAINMENT and an outdoor

A unique gig-theatre take on Roald

Cardiff, CF10 5BZ

BIRDS OF PREY DISPLAY in the

Dahl’s short stories for adults.

Time: 11am – 4pm

beautiful castle gardens.. There

Tel: 029 2063 6464

What could be more special than

is something for the little ones

a personalised letter from Santa?

too including CHILDREN’S CRAFT

Saturday 10th December

This Christmas your child can write

WORKSHOP by Katrina Willis and

– Sunday 8th January

to Santa and get a reply through

FACEPAINTING by Fabulous Faces!

PETER PAN

the post from the big man himself!

www.stdonats.com

New Theatre

attractions, restaurants, bars and cafes. If you’re looking for a quirky

Park Place

Tel: 02920 480 077 www.mermaidquay.co.uk

48

Monday 5th

Cardiff

BOBATH CAROL CONCERT

CF10 3LN

Saturday 3rd – 10th December

St. Mary’s Church

Tickets: £8.50 - £26

PINOCCIO

Whitchurch

Tel: 029 2087 8889

The Gate

Time: 7pm

www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

Keppoch Street

Cost: £6

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

>>

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

49

our events diary

Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th

and performed by the children

Grotto, hosted by Green City. Join

CHRISTMAS AT

themselves, this intimate concert

us for Christmas craft workshops,

CAERPHILLY CASTLE

brings together older people in

upcycled Christmas crafts and

Caerphilly Castle

the local community for a social

lots of family friendly fun!

Castle Street

musical session which includes

www.chapter.org

Caerphilly, CF83 1JD

a hot drink and slice of cake.

Time: 10am – 4pm Saturday,

www.chapter.org

Cost: Adults £6, Family

Wednesday 14th

The Gate

£16.20, Under 5’s FREE

HONEY BEE BEAUTIFUL

Keppoch Street

Families are invited to meet and

OFFICIAL LAUNCH PARTY

Roath, CF24 3JW

greet Father Christmas and his real

Miskin Manor

Tickets: £8 - £12

live reindeer, experience a medieval

Pendoylan Road

Time: 7.30pm

Christmas, and taste a selection of

Pontyclun, CF72 8ND

Tel: 02920 483344

festive treats and refreshments,

Time: 7pm – 9pm

www.thegate.org.uk

including a traditional hog roast,

Honey Bee Beautiful are an arstisan

mince pies and mulled wine.

producer of a delicious range of

Tuesday 20th – Saturday 24tH

handmade, 100% natural skincare

LOST LANDS CINEMA

Tuesday 13th

which is completely free from

- THE UNDERGROUND

Concerts & Cakes - World

chemicals or any other nasties so

ENCHANTED FOREST

of Pure Imagination

that you can care for your skin

Jacobs Market

Chapter

the way nature intended whilst

West Wharf

Market Road

supporting local honeybees.

Cardiff, CF10 5DB

Canton, Cardiff, CF5 1QE

www.honeybeebeautiful.co.uk

Time: Open from 12pm. Day time family screenings from 11:30am.

Cost: £5

50

Friday 16th & Saturday 17th RENT

11am – 4pm Sunday

Join the Welsh branch of national

Sunday 18th

Evening Screening from 6pm

musicians development and

Festive Food Fair 2016

Cost: Child Ticket - £6

outreach charity Live Music

Chapter

Standard Ticket - £8.00

Now this Christmas for a very

Market Road

Santa’s little Helper Ticket - £20

special musical celebration. LMN

Canton, Cardiff, CF5 1QE

(includes warm mulled cocktail)

Musicians Triptych (piano, cello,

Time: 10am

Christmas Party Ticket (for 5) - £100

soprano) will be joined by pupils

Chapter and Green City are doing

(Comes with x 2 tickets, Mulled

from Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg

it again and showcasing the best

Cocktail, popcorn & blankets)

Abercynon and Musical Director

local Welsh produce! Stock up on

Films to include including FROZEN,

Dan Perkin for "World of Pure

Christmas treats, stocking fillers,

Beauty and The Beast, ELF and

Imagination” - a celebration of the

gorgeous chocs, tasty cheese,

everyone’s secret favourite

Roald Dahl Centenary. With songs

delicious meats and something

Christmas film, DIE HARD

from and inspired by Dahl stories,

special from the Caffi Bar. For

www.lostlands.co.uk

including new pieces written

one day only! Discover our Green

Facebook: lostlandsCinemas

ISSUE twenty¯SEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017

@CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

51

52

ISSUE twentyÂŻSEVEN Cardiff Now december 2016 i january 2017