Cardiff NOW FEBRUARY 2017

CARDIFF

N W february 2017 issue twenty¯eight

CHRIST COLLEGE BRECON quality independent education

for boys and girls between the ages of 7 & 18

See page THIRTY-FOUR for more information

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

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ISSUE twentyÂŻeight Cardiff Now february 2017

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

Your garden should be a haven for you to relax and unwind.

You might even want to set aside a corner of your garden specifically for this purpose.

ADVERTISE

Jess Keare Tel: 01905 727908 jess@pw-media.co.uk Melanie Penkoks Tel: 01905 727901 mel@pw-media.co.uk

Editor

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

DESIGN

Paul Blyth

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Looking out through steamy windows on a drab February day into your garden can be a depressing experience. What if you could make that view more inviting?

CONTRIBUTORS

Glynis Dray Sarah Philpott Helen Whithouse Age Cymru Amgueddfa Cymru Cheltenham Racecourse House of Colour MP Promotions Welsh Wildlife

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COMPETITION WINNERS

A place on Forces Fitness Kick Start Bootcamp C. Edwards, Llanharan

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.

dulux colour of the year 2017

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Wildlife celebrating Valentine's Day

Beauty without virtue is like a rose without scent

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

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A DAY IN

THE LIFE OF...

4-year old Amalie at St Clare’s School in Newton, Porthcawl. Her mother told us Amalie settled into the Nursery very quickly. A few taster days really helped and Amalie couldn’t wait to start.

“All the teachers and the staff made her feel very welcome and so did the pupils. I think because it’s a lovely small class she got to know everyone very quickly which helped. I found her days to be a lot more structured with a very good balance between learning and play.”

Amalie arrives at 8:15am...

She says hello to her friends and hangs her coat up all by herself whilst her teacher chats to grandma, Bev Howe, an ex-

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ISSUE twenty¯eight Cardiff Now february 2017

pupil herself. Amalie’s mother, Hannah, was also at St Clare’s right through to the Sixth Form.

Amalie looks around the Nursery eager to begin the day’s activities. This month’s theme is insects and Amalie spots one of her favourite book on the table - The Hungry Caterpillar.

At St Clare’s, pupils are introduced to structured learning and pupils challenged through theme related activities, with a strong focus on developing early literacy and numeracy skills.

Amalie looks at the wormery and checks the butterfly farm to see if the caterpillars have changed into chrysalides yet.

Amalie can’t wait to get started! She loves playing maths games on the computer or mini iPads.

It’s Thursday so Amalie has ballet first. Her favourite thing is when they all pretend to be little fairies skipping around and putting a spell on the sleeping giant (Miss Brown).

At 10am Amalie washes her hands and gets ready for snack time. St Clare’s has a healthy eating policy – yummy fruit with milk or water. Today Amalie’s mummy has packed strawberries.

Her favourite!

“It is a pleasure to bring my grand-daughter into the nursery each day, she is a joy to watch, skipping across the yard full of enthusiasm to learn and play with her friends. Her confidence continues to grow as do her skills. She loves to bring home her reading books and do her homework! It makes such a difference having two qualified teachers and a good support team teaching the little ones. Well done. Thank you for all your hard work.” Bev Howe “Amalie has settled in at the nursery better than we could have ever hoped, she’s in a lovely little class and she honestly enjoys every single day. The teachers are so attentive and supportive and although she will be sad to leave nursery she’s equally excited about moving up to reception class.

I’m constantly recommending St Clare’s to other parents, not just because of the level of education but because of the lovely community feel the school has for the children and the parents.” Hannah James

“Teaching is Excellent”

Estyn, June 2014

It’s a beautiful day and Amalie’s teachers’ really believe in outdoor learning. The large secure outdoor play provides the perfect environment to help children develop physical skills, whilst extending and enhancing their cognitive and social skills.

At 11:30am Amalie gets ready to walk over for lunch in the modern Dining Hall. Nursery fees include a healthy home-cooked lunch. Amalie loves being able to have vegetables no matter what she’s having but she especially loves the roast potatoes!

At 3pm it’s home time for some and the friendly staff chat to parents but today she is in After School Club which is available until 6pm. Amalie and her friends enjoy a light tea in the Dining Hall and games and crafts until grandma collects her at 4:30pm.

On her way home, Amalie chatters about everything she’s done today.

“She likes all the work she does, she likes playing outside and she likes her friends. She also really enjoys reading her reading book with her teacher.” Hannah James

“Teachers and staff share high expectations of themselves and of the children.”

Estyn 2014

St Clare’s in a non-selective independent day school for boys and girls aged 2 ½ to 18.

• • • • • •

Small class sizes Full-time qualified teachers in the Nursery Wrap around care 8-6pm Surprisingly competitive fees Childcare Vouchers accepted Early Years Grant available

Early registration is recommended.

St Clare’s School Newton, Porthcawl, CF36 5NR Tel: (01656) 789966 www.stclares-school.co.uk @CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

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CONTENTS

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26 CHESTNUT and artichoke casserole

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Age Cymru’s Tai Chi programme Take a walk along Rhossili, Gower – Worms Head

february 2017

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ISSUE twenty¯eight

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School open days in your area

win tickets to the cheltenham festival

win tickets to see hawkwind

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ISSUE twenty¯eight Cardiff Now february 2017

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Performing arts education has a wonderful effect on young people and the success stories are impressive.

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If we can’t be seen, then we intend on being heard so the DAAM VAN has a little stereo (OK! Monster) system installed at the back, for one reason and one reason only and that is to get your business seen and noticed.

The van is then driven around & parked up in extremely busy areas so we can display your advert to thousands of your potential customers.

The aim of our business is not for us to have a bright green van with unique screens installed and an extremely loud stereo system, the aim is quite simply to get your business, company or service seen by hundreds of people every day.

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HERE & NOW Welsh rugby fans jet away

to catch blues away this

six Nations will travel via Enterair, totalling 15 extra

aircraft movements - in addition to Flybe scheduled flights to the Edinburgh and Glasgow which depart up to twice a day seven days a week.

Ahead of the France v Wales game on 18th March circa 1,100 Welsh supporters will travel to and from Paris on Flybe’s regular daily service as well as on special charter services operated by Carpatair and Vueling.

Spencer Birns, Commercial Director at Cardiff Airport, commented: “As the nation’s airport of Wales we’re proud to be able to facilitate extra services so that fans can support our boys abroad.

“Rugby is a huge part of Welsh culture and we’re proud to play our part and fly the flag for Wales all year round.

W

With all of the scheduled services available with Flybe to Italy, Scotland ales rugby supporters will

40 aircraft movements expected on

and France there is still time to book

be jetting off in their droves

airlines including Vueling, Thomson and

a flight to support Wales away. Cymru

this 6 Nations to see our

Jet2. These movements complement

home nation take on the

‘Blues Away’. In February and March almost 6,000 fans will travel through Cardiff to see Wales play Italy, France and Scotland.

Flybe’s existing schedule flights to Milan Malpensa which depart on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

The Celtic clash between Scotland v Wales

3,600 supporters will be travelling to and

will take place on the 25th February

from Rome for the first match – Italy v

with a host of rugby charter flights

Wales - on 5th February, with an extra

departing from Cardiff. 1,100 supporters

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ISSUE twenty¯eight Cardiff Now february 2017

am byth!”

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A

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Exciting New Awards

for South Wales

Fitness & Beauty Businesses

I

f you feel that your business/ person/client

deserves

to

be

recognised for its/their success, why not enter them for the South

Wales Fitness Awards 2017?

These awards are being held on 13th September 2017 at the Bear Hotel and hosted by the one and only Nicky Piper MBE. In Wales, there are have a huge number of highly successful businesses and business people within the fitness Industry, who even during the most difficult of economic periods have excelled! As such, we feel they should be given every opportunity to highlight their achievements and successes, which is why the awards have been created.

There are a number of different Categories from Fitness Club of the Year to Trainee of the Year.

Visit www.southwalesfitnessawards. co.uk to find out more.

LUNCH OF CHAMPIONS

W

of the World & Enzo Maccarinelli - Former

of Wales. I’m sure that they will have

that

the

(WBO) Cruiserweight Champion of the

many a tale of their boxing exploits

“Lunch

of

World. The event is to be hosted by Nicky

that will surprise and delight our

Champions” will take place

Piper (MBE) - Former Commonwealth

guests.”

S Marketing is delighted to

announce

inaugural

on the 10th March 2017.

Light Heavyweight Champion.

This fantastic event to be held at the

Founder of the Lunch of Champions

stories and delightful lunch at the Bear,

Bear Hotel in Cowbridge, is the first in

Wesley Skene said “I’m incredibly proud

we will also be holding an auction of

that we’re beginning the Lunch of

boxing memorabilia.

the series of lunch talks with inspiring and entertaining sports men and women from around the world. Taking place on

Champions with Lee, Enzo and Nicky.”

As well as an exciting afternoon of boxing

Tickets are now available online at

the 10th March, the guest speakers are

“All three boxers are amongst the

www.lunchofchampions.co.uk or call

Lee Selby - (IBF) Featherweight Champion

greatest fighters ever to come out

01446 775306 to book your place.

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ISSUE twenty¯eight Cardiff Now february 2017

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

11

homestyle

Your garden should be a haven for you to relax and unwind. You might even want to set aside a corner of your garden specifically for this purpose.

the great

outdoors

Looking out through steamy windows on a drab February day into your garden can be a depressing experience. What if you could make that view more inviting? What if you could look out onto a space that invites you to enter it?

T

he health benefits of being outside are well known: being outdoors makes us fitter, happier and healthier. Despite this, with fewer people working outside and

more of us driving, most of us are spending less time outside than we could. It is not just adults who are missing out - according to a recent study by the National Trust, the average child today plays outside for less than an hour a day.

12

ISSUE twentyÂŻeight Cardiff Now february 2017

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homestyle

Gym memberships soar in January,

adventurous as you like with outdoor

even want to set aside a corner

as many of us make New Year’s

cooking. Just taking your sandwich

of your garden specifically for this

resolutions to get fit and lose weight.

outside at lunchtime and spending

purpose. If you have the space, you

As the weeks go on, more and more

a

your

could install a summer house as a

people find reasons not to go and end

surroundings can turn a mundane

quiet haven away from the hustle

up paying expensive monthly fees

meal into something special.

and bustle of daily life. If planning is

without getting any of the benefits.

Why not make your garden your gym? Add a hot tub and you have a spa as well. At NOW Magazines we don’t think alfresco eating should be limited to the occasional summer barbecue. Even on a chilly day, it can feel warm in the sunshine and eating outside can really lift the spirits.

From wood-fired brick pizza ovens

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few

minutes

enjoying

Wet, slippery decking often means that gardens are off limits for the winter months. Installing anti - slip decking is a great way of ensuring your deck can tear around in the garden

whatever

the

weather.

Gripsure decking has achieved the highest non slip ratings and is now available from Homebase.

an issue them why not look at the ingenious products from Umbris, their louvre roofs, when closed, are completely

watertight

preventing

any rain to pass through onto the patio area, keeping you and your furniture dry. You can ever put a temporary structure such as

the

Cuckooland Garden Igloo, apart from looking seriously cool, like your own

to built-in gas grills, there are more

Your garden should be a haven for

mini-Eden project, the Garden Igloo

and more options to help you be as

you to relax and unwind. You might

is 100% weatherproof and retains

ISSUE twenty¯eight Cardiff Now february 2017

>>

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

15

homestyle

heat. Use as an affordable alternative

larger.

created

in order to have turf or planting

to a conservatory, dining room, play

by introducing simple groups of

beds, then vertical greening may be

area, hot tub cover or star-gazing

furniture,

planting

an option. With the use of simple wall

retreat - the Garden Igloo offers a

areas, you can make the most of the

shrubs and climbers, something like

unique 360° window on the world.

small space you do have.

Californian Lilac or Asiatic Jasmine

And with 2 window vents and an optional shade canopy cover, you can

this

pathways

is or

As noted on the RHS website, “with

enjoy your Igloo in summer too!

gardens becoming smaller, making

Even if your garden is small, think

and can look striking. Many types

about how you can make it as

of plants will tolerate the high

peaceful and relaxing as possible,

life in a green wall, from herbs

perhaps using a trellis to provide

and fruit to grasses and ferns.

some privacy or planting some

Whether in sun or shade, covering

beautiful pots of scented flowers.

walls with plants can enhance

It may sound contradictory, but by breaking up the space and creating defined zones, the space will feel

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Whether

ISSUE twenty¯eight Cardiff Now february 2017

use of every surface makes sense

the smallest of spaces” (Royal Horticultural Society 2015).

So if you have limited ground space

for sunny south or west-facing walls, or Boston ivy and Chocolate vine for shady north or east facing walls, climbers are a great addition to your vertical wall to ensure great coverage and colour to your outdoor living space.

However busy you are, finding those moments when you can take yourself outside to enjoy the garden will help make you happier and healthier in 2017.

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

17

homestyle

Dulux unveils Colour of the Year 2017 Dig out your denim because leading colour experts from Dulux have selected a shade of blue called

A

Denim Drift as the Colour of the Year for 2017. the

To complement the Colour of the Year, a special colour

company’s annual trends forecast, Denim

palette featuring a spectrum of blues and tones has

Drift is the foundation for an inspirational

also been developed. Denim Drift combined with the

palette of paint colours centred on the

lighter shades of paint in the palette has a crisp and

nnounced

during

the

launch

of

expected design trends for the upcoming year.

Working with a group of leading international

dramatic and moody.

architects, interior designers and trend watchers,

“The Colour of the Year and its complementary

the company has used extensive research to define

colour palette tell the story of our Life in a New Light

the tones and styles that best represent how we will

trend, with darker and lighter hues that change the

live our lives in 2017. The forecast is also regarded as

mood of a room,” added Van Gent. “With blue set to

a vital resource for all those working in the interior design world. “We understand how essential colour is to everyday life,” explained Heleen van Gent, Head

18

airy feel, whereas with the darker colours it’s more

dominate interiors in 2017, Denim Drift is a unique shade that represents the times we live in.”

of AkzoNobel’s Global Aesthetics Center, which works

Research has shown that consumers lack confidence

with the company’s decorative paint brands, including

when it comes to decorating, with 40 % actively searching

Dulux. “As well as being practical, paint and colour

for inspiration. Recently Dulux has launched an award-

can have such a transforming and uplifting effect

winning app called Visualizer, to add to testers to sample

on people and the places they spend their time,

paint colours. Most colours come in a variety of paint

whether at home, work or leisure.”

formulations that prevent damage and resist dirt.

ISSUE twenty¯eight Cardiff Now february 2017

Antique & unusual furnishings and collectables in Cardiff Something for everyone

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

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

19

NATURE NOTEBOOK

© Gillian Day

wildlfe celebrating

valentine’s day We don’t associate most animals as the marrying kind. Other than us humans can you think of

W

another species that mate for life? ell there are other species, besides

to both parents as opposed to being fathered by

humans

makes from elsewhere.

that

settle

down

into

monogamous relationships, although it’s thought to be less than 5% of

species and some of those, not unlike some humans,

mate for life. Although, if they’re life mate dies they

tend to have a wondering eye at times.

will seek to form a new pair bond with another barn

This valentines day we are celebrating those species in

courtship period they will hunt more often in order to

Britain that mate for life (or mostly do anyway).

present the female with extra food.

First on our list is the beautiful swan. These elegant

And finally the famous Puffin! Our beloved British sea

birds have become renowned for their pair bonds

bird usually breed with the same mate every year using

and a photograph of two intertwining swan necks has

the same nesting burrow. It is unknown whether the pair

become a universal symbol of love. By mating for life

stay together during their months at sea but in March

they learn from their success and failures each time

when they return to Skomer Island they find each other.

that they raise cygnets.

owl. Male barn owls are true gentlemen! During the

However, this isn’t all as romantic as it first seems.

Next is the Turtle Dove. There is a reason that these

Some birds choose a mate for life out of convenience.

rare birds come in pairs in the well known Christmas

When weighing in the time it takes to establish territory,

song ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’. These iconic love

migration, incubation and raising young, spending any

birds have even inspired poetry in shakespeare!

extra time seeking a new mate each breeding season

European Beavers also pair up for life and become

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Barn owls are another surprising species that usually

would essentially minimise reproductive time.

faithful to one another. A study by Pavel Munclinger

For more information please visit

found that, in every colony, all of the offspring belonged

www.welshwildlife.org.

ISSUE twenty¯eight Cardiff Now february 2017

National Chips Away Franchisee of the Year 2015

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21

BEAUTIFUL

ROSES ARE RED, violets are blue Beauty without virtue is like a rose without scent Swedish proverb

ELEMIS

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ENERGY complex of

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22

ISSUE twenty¯eight Cardiff Now february 2017

MOLTON BROWN A voluptuous bath and shower gel blended with Italian rose oil, blackcurrant and patchouli for an intensely floral scent.

£20.00

CHANEL

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Inspired by the regions

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where people live longer:

hearts a quiver. Bestill your beating heart with

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the Blue Zones, Chanel

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Brighter Blonde

Research sourced three

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Lush - 01202 668 545 - www.lush.co.uk. John Frieda - www.johnfrieda.co.uk

BEAUTIFUL

23

BEAUTiful

ready for valentine's day?

Unless your partner/date is planning a big surprise, try and find out exactly where you are going because if there is a lot of walking you don’t want to do it in towering heels. Equally you don’t want to be over or under-dressed. Valentine’s Day is the day you want to get it just right so here are a few top tips for the ladies and the men.

HER 1. If you have a playful personality, try a playful outfit, perhaps something that is tactile. Try a soft fabric such

a fabulously fitting bra and underwear set that gives you great posture and curves in all the right places.

HIM 1. This year Valentine’s Day falls on a Tuesday so you may be coming from an office and not have time to go home to change. Wearing a business suit might not fit the bill though so think this through the night before and if permissible try a great fitting shirt tucked into Chinos or smart jeans. Or take a wonderful shirt, maybe with a pattern, to change into for the evening.

as a silk, velvet or mohair if it feels right. Accentuate

2. It’s all about the shirt. The quality and colour of your

your best features and be true to your personality

shirt is important as it can make a huge difference to

through the clothes you choose to wear whether you

your appearance. Choose carefully if you are wearing

are fun, flirty, feisty or more naturally reserved.

a patterned shirt and opt for one of your wow colours.

2. Regardless of your age, your wow colours will

Time for a trip to the shops?

make your skin glow and will make you look healthier,

3. Don’t forget great shoes can make or break an outfit

younger, slimmer, more confident and approachable,

for men as much as women. Treat yourself to a smart

so make sure to have one of these magical colours on

pair of shoes that are a bit more interesting that your

your top half.

everyday shoes edgy!

3. Red is the colour that is synonymous with Valentine’s

4. Wearing one of your best ties in a heavier silk in one

Day and the good news is that every season has a red tone that suits them, so Valentine’s day is the perfect

of your wow colours will be a great way to add some pizazz to your outfit and make you look like you have

time to go wild and wear your favourite red top or

made the effort for your lovely valentine!

dress, or perhaps red scarf or nails if you want to just

5. Even if you have planned a night cooking for your

make a smaller splash.

4. Lipstick is the most important item of makeup and can make or break an outfit. It may also just be to your advantage to draw attention to your lips on Valentine’s Day! Make sure you pick the right shade of lipstick for you – every season has their best variant of red which will make your eyes sparkle and face look radiant and alive.

special someone, make the effort and resist the urge to wear trackie bottoms. Grooming is everything: looking washed out or unshaven and wearing the wrong colours isn’t an option. Act smart, look smart and cook smart!

MORE INFORMATION Colour Analysts & Personal Style Consultant

5. Take extra care with your lingerie on Valentine’s Day. Today is not the day for wearing ill-fitting, slightly greying underwear. It is the occasion to get

24

ISSUE twenty¯eight Cardiff Now february 2017

Helen Whithouse helen.whithouse@houseofcolour.co.uk Tel: 07720 952127 www.houseofcolour.co.uk

ST DUNSTAN HOUSE • 30 BEDWLWYN ROAD YSTRAD MYNACH • SOUTH WALES • CF82 7AD Tel: 0845 5196 750 • Email: andrew@andrewberry.co.uk Web site: www.AndrewBerry.com

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

25

CHESTNUT and artichoke

casserole Serves 3–4

cool slice the flesh from the

Ingredients

middle (the heart). Set aside.

B 1 tablespoon olive oil B 1 large onion, chopped roughly B 2 carrots, chopped roughly into rounds

B 2 celery stick, chopped finely B 2 cloves of garlic, crushed B 200g cooked chestnuts, halved roughly

B 1 globe artichoke heart, steamed or 2 tablespoons of jarred artichokes, drained of oil and torn

B Half a kohlrabi B 2 teaspoons of fresh rosemary, chopped

B 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme, chopped

B 2 cans of chopped tomatoes B 1 tsp Marmite B 2 handfuls of kale, stalks removed Brr! It’s cold out there so some good old-fashioned comfort food is just what you need this February. This chestnut and artichoke casserole is hearty but healthy and you can adapt it depending on which ingredients you have knocking around. Use parsnips or apples if you can’t get your hands on kohlrabi (although it’s in season at the moment) and jarred artichokes if you don’t fancy preparing them from fresh.

B 2 medium sweet potatoes B 1 teaspoon of dried cinnamon B A liberal sprinkling of nutmeg B A 2-3 cm piece of fresh ginger, grated or finely chopped

B 1 tablespoon of maple syrup B A pinch of sea salt and pepper B 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, melted

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

Find out more: veggingit.wordpress.com

ISSUE twenty¯eight Cardiff Now february 2017

onion over a medium heat and cook for 2 minutes. Add the carrot, celery and garlic and cook for a further 2 minutes until the vegetables are starting to soften.

3 Add the chestnuts, artichokes, rosemary and thyme then pour in the chopped tomatoes.

Spoon in the Marmite and stir thoroughly. Place a lid on the pan, reduce the heat to low-medium and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4 During this time, peel and slice the sweet potato and boil for 15-20 minutes. Add the maple syrup, cinnamon, coconut oil, nutmeg and nutmeg and set aside.

5 Heat the oven to 200C. Add the kale to the casserole mixture, stir through and cook for further 10 minutes until the kale has wilted. Season with sea salt and pepper to taste. If your pan isn’t oven proof, transfer the mixture to a casserole or oven dish and top with a layer of mashed potato. Grate over the nutmeg, add the chopped pecans and another liberal sprinkling of cinnamon.

6 Place a lid on the casserole (or if using a dish wrap loosely in

Method

foil) and cook for 10-15 minutes

1 If you’re using a fresh artichoke,

until the pecans are slightly

remove the stalk and steam for about 25 minutes and once

26

2 In a pan, heat the olive oil and

toasted.

7 Serve with green vegetables.

Mr Croquewich

ATTENTION...for frustrated dieters who finally want to lose weight and feel better about themselves

NOW AVAILABLE: Cardiff Based Low Sugar Weight Loss Workshops WANTED!

“Just 15 Candidates who are Finally Ready to Drop Excess Weight & Feel More Confident... for Good” And, as a special thank you for being one of the first 15 candidates, you’ll qualify for a MASSIVE 63% discount on the normal price (So the only pounds you’ll really be losing are those you don’t need anymore!).

• Are you ready to say ‘no more’ to fad dieting?

• Do you want 2017 to be the beginning of the ‘new’ you?

• Do diets make you miserable and lower your confidence?

If so... I’m looking for 15 serious candidates to join me on my transformational new workshop program for creating the body, health, and feelings we all deserve.

About My Workshop and What You Will Get

M

Croquewich,

try to support as many

the

Cardiff

independent traders as we

based

grilled

possibly can. By working

cheese sandwich

together we hope to make

company, was launched by

the communities we live in

experienced

stronger.” Darren Lewis (Mr

r

chef

Darren

Lewis and his partner Emma Carter in 2014 and has fast become one of the city’s most

popular

pop

ups.

Serving grilled cheese croque monsieur style sandwiches inspired by Darren’s time living and working in France.

Mr Croquewich fills the cheesy delights

with

handcrafted

fillings, sauces and chutneys elevating the humble cheese toasty to new heights.

Croquewich) Wales now has a thriving street food scene, with award winning

events

such

as

‘Street Food Circus’ popping

And MUCH, MUCH more

up across the country. Mr

...And the results you will achieve:

Croquewich is a familiar face at these events and can be found every Sunday at Riverside Farmers’ Market.

Twitter: @Mr_Croquewich Facebook: MrCroquewich

Best seller: ‘The Glamorgan’ (pictured above); Leeks, garlic and onion in béchamel sauce with Caerphilly cheese and Dijon mustard made with local sourdough bread and

• A 5 hour Workshop each month for 3 Months (£97 per Workshop).

• Freebies worth over £90.

• Coffee on arrival and a meet and greet session.

• Information Session. Where you will gain an understanding of the different food types, different sugars, the importance of nutrient rich foods and the damaging effects of the chemicals that we consume daily and how all this can help or hinder weight Loss... and much more!

• A cookery lesson to learn about new types of foods and simple, tasty meals to help you discover your new low sugar lifestyle.

• Lunch: We will enjoy the food we have made over a questions and answer session.

• Surveys to help reveal individual problem areas that specifically relate to you.

• A Guided Meditation session to help begin to put behind you the bad feelings of guilt, frustration, ugliness, loneliness, fear and tears... turning them into new exciting super-charged ‘feel-good’ feelings for the results you want. And, you will get to keep the CD for your own continued use.

• A 1 hour personal mentoring session a month outside of the workshop for ongoing support. Plus daily contact with me if you require it and daily inspirational texts.

Instagram: mr_croquewich mr_croquewich@outlook.com

• A change in your eating habits forever.

• Natural weight loss.

• A regain in control.

• An understanding of food types and how the body works.

• A raise in your self-esteem.

• An increase in self confidence.

• An increase in your personal energy and a more positive outlook.

• The tools required to continue your new slim, confident lifestyle.

To avoid disappointment, secure your place today by contacting me on:

Call or Text 07813 777842 Email jules@thejoyofsugarfreedom.co.uk Or if you need further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

signature cheese blend.

“We pride ourselves on using fresh, locally sourced, seasonal

ingredient

all

products

our

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

27

KEEPING ACTIVE Start/Finish: This circular walk starts and finishes at Rhossili National Trust Car Park (see sketch-map). Public Transport: Nearest Railway Station is at Swansea with buses to Rhossili running about hourly and taking about one hour each way. Please check ‘Traveline Wales’ and timetables before you embark on your journey. Leave early in winter to complete walk in daylight. Parking: There is parking in the National Trust car park (free for members) – see sketch map. There is a WC in this car park. O/S Map: Explorer 164. Distance: Approx. 6.5 miles with 5.5 mile option. (Shorter ‘There and Back’ walk to see Worms Head - 2 miles). Time: Allow minimum of 3 - 4 hours for main walk and set off early in the winter months. Take a torch in case darkness falls. Refreshments: There are limited food outlets so a picnic is recommended. Make sure you have water and snacks with you. Terrain: Much of the walk is flat but the paths are uneven, grassy with loose rocks and can be muddy. There are a number of gates and some steps.

Strong supporting boots highly recommended and poles useful. Do not attempt the coast path in strong winds and keep on the paths away from cliff-edges. There are several sections which involve a moderate climb but the views make it worth the effort. Regretfully, the main walk is unsuitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. However, there are lovely coastal views from the car park and, with help, you can try the shorter walk towards Worms Head.

Note: This walk goes out to a headland, beyond which is the promontory called ‘Worms Head’. At high tide, ‘Worms Head’

headland. The ‘Wales Coast Path’ soon drops down towards sea to a lower level following a wall that encloses a large area of Medieval ‘strip’ fields called ‘The Vile’.

4: Walk round end of wall and up slight slope. (There is lower route that has been abandoned and is officially closed due to rock falls). Continue along Wales Coast Path which is becoming more rugged. (You have option of cutting back to Rhossili via Middleton from various points that will shorten the walk.)

becomes an island. It can be reached across a rock outcrop for

5: Follow wall eastwards, passing ‘Tears Point’ and ‘Fall Bay’ to

approximately 2.5 hours either side of low tide. There are signs

reach ‘Mew Slade’.

advising you of this. However, it is not recommended that people on this walk, long or short, attempt to cross to ‘Worm’s Head’. If you choose to do so, it is entirely at your own risk.

6: Follow valley round ‘Mew Slade’ towards Pitton, shortening main walk by 1.5 miles to reach point 9.

1: Leave car park via small gate beyond toilet block. Take ‘Wales

7: The main walk goes ‘right’ down short sharp descent to newly

Coast Path’ that leads onto headland. There are stunning views

rebuilt dry-stone wall. Go through kiss-gate before an uphill

round Rhossili Bay, across to ‘Lundy Island’ and North Devon and

scramble towards Pen Thurba Head. Walk diagonally left up

Somerset Coastlines.

steep hillside to cliff-top. Shortly, cut inland and zig-zag down

2: After 1/3 mile, you reach markings of an old castle fort. ‘The

slope via steps, over a culverted stream to cross-roads in paths.

Worm’ at the end is part of the same land-mass that you are walking on. (Note: ‘short walk’ returns to car park).

3: Main walk follows ‘Gower Way’ round ‘Coast-guard Station’ to rejoin Wales Coast Path as it proceeds in a south-easterly direction. Notice strata of limestone rock underlying this

8: Turn left over stile and up through pretty valley. Go over stile on left and turn immediately right. Keeping fence on right, walk to corner then left to stile on right. Walk with hedge on right (note: you are walking parallel to a ‘Green Lane’). Exit into lane at Great Pitton Farm. Proceed through hamlet of Pitton. (joined by short walk here).

9: At Junction cross diagonally right and walk to end of lane. Turn left up unsurfaced ‘leafy’ lane to stile on left. This footpath gets waterlogged but persevere up hillside, round property, over stile and straight across lane to track opposite.

10: Follow track, then a path, uphill to 632 feet ‘Beacon’ with its stunning 360 degree views over ‘Gower Peninsular’. From Trig Point, turn round, retracing route for 20 yards, fork right and descend from ‘downs’. Routes get channelled between two walls to enter ‘Rhossili’ at St. Mary’s Church. Turn right through Rhossili village to return to car park where walk ends.

Written and Illustrated by Glynis Dray

28

ISSUE twenty¯eight Cardiff Now february 2017

Rhossili, Gower – Worms Head

living history

HISTORY OF THE SIX NATIONS The Six Nations Championship is the oldest rugby championship in the world, dating back to 1882. Originally held

F

irstly

between the four United Kingdom countries England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. called

The

Home

Nations

one game - a one point victory over Scotland in

Championship, the joining of France in

1911.

1910 saw the tournament become The

The outbreak of war in 1914 saw the tournament

Five Nations. With the addition of Italy in

put on hold until 1920 and the inter-war years

2000, the Six Nations was born.

were dominated by England as they swept to

When the English rugby team travelled to St

nine championship victories, including five Grand

Helen’s in Swansea on a dreary day in December

Slams.

1882, few could have realised the importance of

1926 saw Scotland became the first Home Union

the occasion. The game, in which England beat

side to defeat England at Twickenham after

Wales by two goals and four tries to none, sparked

England had won the Grand Slam (winning the

a festival of rugby that has since become the pride of the northern hemisphere. However in the early days, it was far less organised than the modern tournament.

There was no points system like we see today. Instead, teams were judged simply on whether they won or lost.

Triple Crown AND beating the French) five times in eight seasons.

France continued to struggle and in 1931 the inadequacies of the French game's administration and the discovery that a number of their players had been paid at club level, forced them

Before the turn of the century the Championship was marred

to pull out of the tournament. Due to this, the championship

by disputes and three times (in 1885, 1887 and 1889) it could

became an entirely domestic affair for eight years.

not be completed. Indeed, even after 1900, it continued to be a source of controversy.

England and Scotland were the most successful teams in the early days, but by the mid-1890s the Welsh had developed an impressive side and a new system that would alter the face of the game.

This "four three-quarter" system came into its own in 1893 when Wales became champions for the first time, winning rugby's "invisible trophy", the Triple Crown - beating all three other home nations.

Their success showed the other Home Union sides that the six backs/nine forwards game would no longer be effective against the Welsh system and four three-quarters became

War again meant the curtailment of the championship in 1940. But when it resumed in 1947 it marked the beginning of a new rugby order. In the early post-war seasons, Ireland hit the front, taking three outright titles including consecutive Triple Crowns in 1948 and 1949.

The

1970's

brought

mixed

fortunes

for

both

the

Championship and the teams. In 1972 the tournament could not be completed after Scotland and Wales refused to play in Dublin because of the escalating political problems. And the following year the tournament finished with a unique five way tie - every country having won and lost two games.

For Wales, however, the 1970s will be remembered as the golden era of Welsh rugby. They finished the decade with three

the norm at national and club level.

Grand Slams and one Triple Crown and were led by legendary

By 1900 all of the four Home teams had found success at a

Edwards. The Welsh side were absolutely unstoppable. Only

game that was rapidly growing in popularity.

an outstanding French side prevented them from adding to

In the first decade of the 20th century, Wales were the team to

players such as fullback JPR Williams and scrum-half Gareth

the three Grand Slams achieved in this decade.

beat. Unbeaten at home between 1900 and 1913, they won six

England struggled throughout the 1970s and most of the

outright titles before England staged a revival that coincided with

following decade - their only relief being Bill Beaumont's

the 1910 opening of the RFU's new home at Twickenham. The

Grand Slam winning side of 1980. Instead, it was France who

very first international at Twickenham brought England success

dominated, winning the title outright three times, including

over Wales, and heralded a golden era for English rugby.

two Grand Slams in 1981 and 1987.

France did not join the fray until 1910 and, despite their later

In 1984, Scotland won their first Grand Slam for 59 years and

dominance; they struggled at first to achieve any notable

Ireland scooped the title 12 months later. They have not won

success. In their first four years of entry, the French won just

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

29

golden years

Age Cymru’s Golden Dragon Tai Chi programme

I

Tai chi has significant health and wellbeing benefits for people aged 50 and over.

t can help improve your balance, core strength

tai chi styles, so it is very good for health promoting

and

exercise.

overall

wellbeing.

Health

professionals

are also increasingly recognising that tai chi is an activity that can help reduce the risk of falls

among older people.

The Sun style Age Cymru’s new Golden Dragon Tai Chi programme is specifically for over 50s and based on the Sun style of tai chi. There are many styles of tai chi around today, however many have developed in the west with no endorsement by the tai chi experts in China where it began.

The Sun style of tai chi is rare and recognised in China as one of the five classical styles and as such it is very highly respected.

The Sun style has properties which make it the best style of tai chi for older people and it is renowned across the world as an ideal style or tai chi for people who have arthritis. It has a more upright style than the other styles of tai chi, with the feet never very far apart. Other styles

30

The principles of tai chi The principles of tai chi involve moving at a slow and continuous pace without any pauses.

Each tai chi phase starts with movements to your right, then the same movements done moving to the left to end where you started.

Age Cymru’s Golden Dragon Tai Chi Programme Age Cymru is looking for people to come and take part in our Golden Dragon Tai Chi Programme, which includes seated tai chi, in the Cardiff and Penarth areas. Our tai chi sessions are very sociable events, so they’re a good way to get out and meet and make new friends.

We’ve got opportunities for you to come along to take part in the classes and also to volunteer to be trained to deliver these classes.

of tai chi have low postures and squats which could

If you want more information please contact Age

cause knee and hip problems for some people.

Cymru’s physical activity team on 029 2043 1555.

The Sun style has nimble, flowing footwork which

Margot Deveraux Nisbet

is performed slowly but at a faster pace than other

Volunteer Officer, Age Cymru

ISSUE twenty¯eight Cardiff Now february 2017

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

31

golden years

BRAND NEW NURSING HOME

IS MOST ‘LUXURIOUS’ IN CARDIFF A new residential nursing home which includes a spa, gym and home cinema

T

claims to be the most luxurious in Cardiff.

he multi-million pound development at Ty

registered nurse, said: “Our approach is to provide

Llandaff is situated in the quiet, leafy suburb

high quality care to all residents, understanding

of Pontcanna close to Llandaff village and will

their needs and respecting their choices, while

create more than 80 jobs in the local area.

working closely with relatives to be open and

Ty Llandaff in Conway Road has been built to a high

transparent at all times.

standard across three floors with 72 luxurious en-

“When you’re choosing a home for yourself or a

suite bedrooms and offers five-star accommodation

loved one, it’s important to know all of the facts

and superb facilities on an ‘all inclusive’ basis.

before you make such an important decision for

Facilities include a home cinema, piano bar, hair

the long-term.

salon, luxury spa and therapy rooms, gym, on-

“We want our residents to be able to enjoy all that

site chef and fine dining, accessible beautiful

Ty Llandaff has to offer, which is why we provide

landscaped gardens, and a celebrations room

all-inclusive living. It allows our residents to

which can be used for private family occasions.

live life to the full and take advantage of all our

Ty Llandaff has its own dedicated activities coordinator who provides a varied programme of

facilities and activities without having to worry about additional costs.

entertainment and activities on a daily basis.

“So whether you’d like a new hairstyle for a family get-

There is even a concierge and chauffeur service

together, afternoon tea in the garden or a trip to our

with a Mercedes-Benz ready to take residents into

cinema, you can enjoy them knowing it’s all included.

town which all is covered by the weekly fees.

“We have a cinema, spa, salon, gym, chauffeur-

The home is ideally situated for visitors with buses

driven Mercedes and more! We certainly can’t see

running every 10 minutes to Cardiff city centre with

there being any other care home of this type in

the bus stop just 100 yards away. The M4 is a four-mile

the whole of Cardiff which is as luxurious as Ty

drive, Cardiff central station is three, while Ninian Park

Llandaff.”

train station is one mile away.

For more information call Jan on 02920 600

Registered Manager Janice Evans, who has more than

100, email info@ tyllandaffcare.com or

30 years of experience managing care homes and is a

visit www.tyllandaffcare.com

Ty Llandaff accommodates people for nursing or residential care from the age of 18.

32

ISSUE twenty¯eight Cardiff Now february 2017

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

33

EDUCATION

CHRIST COLLEGE BRECON Christ College Brecon offers quality independent education for boys and girls between the ages of 7 and

18. With nearly two thirds of the school made up of pupils who board and the rest attending as day pupils,

W

Christ College is a thriving community where every pupil counts.

ith just under 400 pupils, the school has a friendly, family atmosphere which is enhanced by the attractive campus nestled in the foothills of the beautiful Brecon Beacons. Exams are changing but the quality of the academic results at Christ College remains top class with pupils and staff proving that they can do exceptionally well whatever style of test is set.

Academic results open doors too and Christ College is committed to helping every individual maximise their achievement in this area.

The school has established a reputation for excellence in some of the more challenging A level subjects, with particularly impressive results in Maths, Further Maths and Physics, and with Engineering proving the most popular degree course amongst the leavers of 2016.

An astonishing 79% of grades in Maths and Further Maths and no fewer than 82% of Physics grades were at the top A and A* grades. The overall statistics show 72% of all grades at A*-B, with a 99% pass rate. All candidates pursuing the Extended Project Qualification, which develops research, extended writing, planning and presentation skills, were awarded A*-B grades. 100% of those studying Art, Religious Studies, Spanish and History were also rewarded with the A*-B grades needed for access to the top universities and courses.

The school, however, teaches well beyond and around the narrow requirements of examinations, and believes that education takes place everywhere a pupil goes. The high pupil participation rates in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, the extremely popular and successful Combined Cadet Force (CCF) and its pupils’ successes in the sporting, music and drama arenas are evidence of this. With dedicated Professional Coaches in Rugby, Hockey, Tennis and Cricket to name but a few, the school is delighted to have several U18 Welsh Hockey squad members amongst its cohort and is a venue for Welsh Hockey’s 360 Academy. Strong links with Bristol Rugby Academy has seen promising rugby players offered professional contracts and feature in the Academy’s U18 squad on a regular basis and international rugby caps awarded.

34

ISSUE twenty¯eight Cardiff Now february 2017

Head of Christ College, Emma Taylor, commented: “At Christ College, education is about learning with enthusiasm and enjoyment; it is about living and growing in a culture where every individual counts and where staff and pupils are passionate about what they do; it is about challenges and adventures of every sort; all conducted in the safe and stable environment of the school’s inspiring campus.”

Despite the difficult economic conditions over recent years Christ College has continued to thrive with continuous investment in facilities and academic provision. With a recent £2 Million Creative Arts Centre, £3 Million Science Centre and a Junior Section taking boys and girls in Years 3 to 6, Christ College Brecon is an exciting place to be. The school’s latest inspection

by Estyn, the office of Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education &Training in Wales, awarded Christ College the best inspection grades possible – ‘Excellent’ – in all areas examined under its inspection framework.

Christ College really is a school that offers excellent value for money on all fronts – having been voted No.3 in the Value for Money Boarding School Guide from the Good Schools Guide. The Good Schools Guide also spent a day at the school in 2016 to enable them to write their latest review. In a ringing endorsement, the reviewer wrote, “This school, is amongst the happiest we have every visited… it’s cool to work… pupils work hard out of inspired interest and loyalty. This is a school that warrants, admiration, loyalty and above all trust.”

If you would like to find out more about how it can help your child reach their full potential and develop into a rounded, confident adult then don’t hesitate to contact the school and make an appointment to visit.

The school will be holding its next Open Morning on Saturday 25th March where families can tour the school, meet Senior Staff and Pupils and discuss the next step in the admissions process. The Open Morning starts at 9.30am and a traditional warm Christ College welcome will be waiting. If you would like to register for the Open Morning then please contact our Admissions Registrar, Mrs Margaret Stephens, on 01874 615440 or via email on admissions@christcollegebrecon.com. We look forward to meeting you.

ST JOHN'S COLLEGE

school achieves ‘exceptional outcomes for pupils of all abilities’ (Crown Copyright, 2012).

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 has again been ranked top school in Wales in The Sunday Times ‘Parent Power’ based on combined A-level and GCSE performance this year. Its most recent Estyn inspection report graded the school ‘excellent,’ including the seldom-awarded ‘excellent’ grade for quality of teaching, and observed that the

A leading independent day school for boys & girls aged 3-18 Choir School to Cardiff Metropolitan Cathedral

Top School in Wales in The Sunday Times ‘Parent Power’

Throughout the school there is also an extensive and varied sports programme, a wide range of extracurricular clubs and societies, with ample opportunity for drama, performance and public speaking, as well as established high-level career and volunteering opportunities.

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.

For further information or to arrange a visit, please contact Admissions on 029 2077 8936 or by email: admin@stjohnscollegecardiff.co.uk

Estyn Inspection Report - ‘Excellent’ Music and Academic Bursaries Available

Nursery & Infants • Juniors • Seniors • Sixth Form

Please contact Admissions to arrange a visit:

02920 778 936

www.stjohnscollegecardiff.com

Charity No. 701294

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

35

COMPETITION

WIN TICKETS TO SEE HAWKWIND Space Rock Legends Hawkwind bring their psychedelic stage show to Newport at The Neon on Saturday 18th March 2017.

Founder Dave Brock is joined by long-standing band members

former member Lemmy turning up to make a guest appearance.

Richard Chadwick, Mr Dibs, Tim Blake, Niall Hone and Dead Fred

Around this period, the band also began reaching out to a whole

- the longest established Hawkwind line-up! Join them on this not

new audience of both fans and musicians, who in turn would

to be missed psychedelic extravaganza delivered with a glittering

embrace much of the Hawkwind sound and ethos whilst at the

array of projections, dance, theatricals and special effects as only

same time adding their own twist. Acts such as The Orb, Future

Hawkwind can ensure. Hold on tight as the journey continues...

Sound of London and later on The Chemical Brothers and

Hawkwind were formed in 1969, originally as Hawkwind Zoo by

Leftfield openly acknowledging Hawkwind s influence.

former London busker Dave Brock, although there have been

Throughout their Hawkwind have released a series of classic

numerous line-up changes throughout the years, he remains at

albums including: In Search Of Space, Doremi Fasol Latido, Space

the helm today and is known affectionately by many of the fans

Ritual, Hall of the Mountain Grill, Warrior On The Edge Of Time,

as the Captain of the ship.

Astounding Sounds (Amazing Music), Quark Strangeness &

In 1970, the band appeared outside the perimeter fence of the Isle of Wight Festival as a protest to the admission charge where Jimi Hendrix was spotted in the audience. The same year they played at the first Glastonbury Festival. These activities

Charm, PXR 5, Space Bandits, Palace Springs, Electric Tepee, It Is the Business of the Future to be Dangerous, The Business Trip, Alien 4, Love In Space, Distant Horizons, Yule Ritual, Take Me To Your Leader, Take Me To Your Future and Blood Of The Earth.

helped establish them as the people’s band, as well as being

Tickets for the NEWPORT – Neon show are available from the

widely acknowledged with creating a brand new genre of music

following: Saturday 18th March, NEWPORT – Neon. Doors –

- space-rock. Also in that year the band’s first single, Hurry on

7.30pm. Tickets – £22.00 advance. Box Office: 01633 533666.

Sundown, was released followed by the self-titled debut album,

www.seetickets.com/event/hawkwind/the-neon/

HAWKWIND, 41 years on it remains a steady seller.

1986 saw the band headline the Reading Rock Festival, with

Competition

www.hawkwind.com Facebook & TWITTER - HawkwindHQ

Answer:

For your chance to win a pair of tickets to see Hawkwind play at The Neon, Newport on Saturday 18th March 2017 , simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

In which year were Hawkwind formed?

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Hawkwind CN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing datetwenty for entrieseight is 22nd February 2017.

ISSUE

36

Name:

Address: Tel: Email:

¯

Cardiff Now february 2017

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

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

37

our events diary

Performing arts classes

helping every child find the right direction, in performance and in life!

Performing arts education has a wonderful effect on young people and the success stories are impressive.

C

hildren who were once incredibly shy have

from many of the actual performance opportunities

not only put their hands up in class for the

on offer too. Taking a bow as a theatre full of people

first time, but have then gone on to achieve

applaud you grows confidence like nothing else!

previously unthinkable feats, such as singing

in front of an audience or presenting to a room of their peers. Parents are impressed not just by the huge change in their child's confidence but by the speed at which that change can occur, which in some cases can

With the opportunity to make like-minded new friends, enjoy new experiences and explore everything from clowning and stage combat to street dance, musicals and film-making, it's easy to see why performing arts

be as a little as a few weeks. And while young children

classes are so popular now in the UK and how the

learn essential life skills like listening and responding

benefits to increase confidence and communication

effectively, canny teenagers with an eye on their

really do help every child find the right direction.

future know that the ability to engage any audience, especially at a University or job interview, can give you the edge in a very competitive world.

Due to high demand in the area PQA Cardiff is opening an afternoon Academy, for more information visit www.pqacademy.com

So, what's the secret? What's important is how it's taught. Going to a drama class and being forced to perform in front of a group of strangers would be terrifying for anyone, let alone a shy and nervous child.

We make sure our staff adopt a gentler approach, using drama exercises that are non-threatening to slowly introduce the idea of speaking by yourself.

Children will also get a massive self-esteem boost

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ISSUE twentyÂŻeight Cardiff Now february 2017

FREE OPEN DAY Saturday 11th March 2017 Starts 1.45 Ends 5pm At Ysgol Treganna, Sanatorium Road, Cardiff, CF11 8DG www.pqacademy.com

New weekend classes added!

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

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our events diary

FEBRUARY

Thursday 2nd- Saturday 4th Pink Mist Sherman Cymru, Senghennydd Road, Cardiff, CF24 4YE. Pink Mist tells the story of three young men deployed to Afghanistan.

As the physical and psychological aftershocks of war take their toll on the loved ones they left behind, Arthur, Hads and Taff find their journey home is their greatest battle. Cost: £15.

Tel: 02920 646 900 • www.visitcardiff.com Friday 3rd Amser Jazz Time Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Castle Grounds, Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF10 3ER. After five successful years, our relaxed session in the foyer is still the must-be place for Cardiff jazz fans at Friday teatime. Each week Royal Welsh College Head of Jazz Paula Gardiner presents some of the most exciting young musicians on the scene. Cost: Free.

Tel: 02920 342 854 • www.visitcardiff.com Great Brits 2 Wales Millennium Stadium, Bute Place, Cardiff, CF10 5AL. Wales’ only national symphony orchestra performing at their home BBC Hoddinott Hall, here at Wales Millennium Centre. Cost: £11.50/£13.50.

Tel: 02920 636 464 • www.visitcardiff.com Totally Tina St David’s Hall, The Hayes, Cardiff, CF10 1AH. Is an International acclaimed award winning tribute revue show to the Queen of Rock The show re-creates the spectacle and energy of her live shows with a six-piece live band, four stunning dancers and Justine’s incredible impersonation of the Queen of Rock and Soul. Cost: £18.50/£22.50.

Contemporary Lunchtime Concerts supported by Arts Council of Wales with a Pay What You Will price tag.

Tel: 02920 878 444 • www.visitcardiff.com Viva! Vegan Festival City Hall, Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF10 3ND. Everything you ever wanted to know about going, being or staying vegan (or moving in that direction) will be on tap at the Cardiff Viva! Vegan Festival. Organised by charity Viva!

A whole range of delicious food tastings are free; and all the advice you could ever want on changing your diet or improving your health is also free. Cost: £2.

Tel: 02920 871 727 • www.visitcardiff.com Monday 6th Yoga Classes Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Harbour Drive, Cardiff Bay, CF10 4PA. Time: 12.30-1.15pm. Most classes are suitable for all levels including complete beginners. Get in touch with us or the friendly and qualified instructors to find out more. Cost: £6 Tel: 07504 475 394 • www.visitcardiff.com Tuesday 7th Chamber Tuesdays Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Castle Grounds, Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF10 3ER. Come and hear our chamber ensembles showcasing their work for free, every Tuesday. Cost: Free Tel: 02920 342 854 • www.visitcardiff.com Tuesday 7th – Thursday 16th Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience Wales Millennium Stadium, Bute Place, Cardiff, CF10 5AL. The globe-trotting tribute to the BBC’s best-loved sitcom makes a welcome return to the Centre where, we should warn you, it has a tendency to sell out quickly. With all the

Tel: 02920 878 444 • www.visitcardiff.com

best gags and a three-course meal, Faulty Towers The Dining

Saturday 4th

of the TV series, featuring the characters made famous by

Birmingham Contemporary Music Group

John Cleese, Prunella Scales and Andrew Sachs. Cost: £45

St David’s Hall, The Hayes, Cardiff, CF10 1AH.

02920 636 464 • www.visitcardiff.com

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ISSUE twenty¯eight Cardiff Now february 2017

Experience is a loosely scripted, pitch-perfect ‘13th episode’

Tuesday 7th & Wednesday 8th

And Roderick Williams returns to perform Mahler’s folk-inspired

Jack Whitehall

song cycle, based on the poems of Des Knaben Wunderhorn.

Motorpoint Arena, Mary Ann Street, Cardiff, CF10 2EQ. Jack

tel: 02920 878 444 • www.visitcardiff.com

Whitehall has firmly established himself as one of the UK’s most exciting and successful comedy talents, a status cemented by his People’s Choice Award for the King of Comedy at the 2012, 2013 & 2014 British Comedy Awards. Jack will be performing two shows at the Motorpoint Arena. This is his first tour since his critically acclaimed ‘Jack Whitehall Gets Around’. Cost: 25.50

Friday 10th Cardiff Castle Film Location Tour Cardiff Castle, Cardiff, CF10 3RB. The BBC hit TV shows of Doctor Who, Sherlock, Torchwood and The Sarah Jane Adventures have all used Cardiff Castle as a film location. Take this exclusive

tel: 02920 234 500 • www.visitcardiff.com

guided tour of the Castle for a closer look at where these

Wednesday 8th

tour, led by an expert guide, will take in The Black Tower, The

Guitar Plus

Undercroft, Library, Keep and the Wartime Shelters. Cost: £4.

Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Castle Grounds,

tel: 02920 878 100 • www.visitcardiff.com

Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF10 3ER. A colourful programme of music for guitars in ensemble performed by members of the College’s guitar faculty. Familiar and unfamiliar music reflecting both the guitar’s rich heritage and its

terrestrial and incredible intergalactic scenes were shot. The

Sunday 12th 3 Phantoms in Concert City Hall, Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF10 3ND. Three Phantom of

remarkable flexibility on the concert platform. Cost: £8.

the Opera stars are all taking part in a special charity concert

tel: 02920 342 854 • www.visitcardiff.com

guaranteed to raise the roof of The City Hall. Cost: £22.

Handel Semele

tel: 02920 871 727 • www.visitcardiff.com

Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Castle Grounds,

Monday 13th – Saturday 18th

Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF10 3ER. First performed during Lent

Dreamboats and Petticoats

1744 at Covent Garden, Handel’s Semele originally appeared

New Theatre, Park Place, Cardiff, CF10 3LN. Inspired by the

as an Oratorio rather than an opera – and instantly caused

smash hit multi-million selling albums Dreamboats and

a stir. Bringing to life the tragic tale of Semele’s ill-fated love

Petticoats One, Two, Three, Four and Five, the West End

for Jupiter, the King of the Gods, it is a spectacular departure

sell out sensation Dreamboats and Petticoats The Musical

from Handel’s previous work. One of the jewels of baroque

features some of the greatest hit songs of the Rock ‘n’ Roll era.

opera. It contains the stunning tenor aria Where e’er you walk

tel: 02920 878 889 • www.visitcardiff.com

and Semele’s joyous Endless Pleasure Endless Love. Cost: £25 tel: 02920 342 854 • www.visitcardiff.com

Wednesday 15th An Evening with Craig Bellamy

Thursday 9th

Cardiff Bierkeller, Stadium Plaza, Wood Street, Cardiff, CF10

Petrushka

1LA. Cardiff City FC Foundation & Cancer Research Wales are

St David’s Hall, The Hayes, Cardiff, CF10 1AH. Continuing

delighted to announce that an exclusive evening with Craig

our performances of Stravinsky’s ballets commissioned for

Bellamy will be held at Bierkeller, Cardiff in February 2017.

Diaghilev’s Ballet Russes, we visit the Russian fairground for

The fantastic Shooters Sports Bar in Cardiff’s Bierkeller will

Petrushka – telling the tale of the jealousies and loves of three

host a pub quiz as well as a Q & A with the former Cardiff,

puppets amongst the sights and sounds of the Shovetide Fair.

Wales and Great Britain Captain. Doors open at 6.30pm @CARDIFFNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowcardiff.co.uk

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our events diary

Win Two Club Tickets to Ladies Day

at The Cheltenham Festival The Festival returns with £4.1 million card over four days of unbeatable racing.

M

arch sees the return of the highlight of

Wednesday 15th March is Ladies Day; whether it is an

the Jump racing season with the world

extra feather in a beautiful hat, the highest heels in a lady’s

famous Cheltenham Festival: four days of

cupboard or for the men their very best tweed, Ladies

atmosphere, anticipation and action played

Day is always a hit with racegoers – but the real action is

out in a beautiful sporting arena, taking place from

with the racing. Wednesday sees another seven race card

Tuesday 14th March until Friday 17th March.

Encompassing everything that is great about jump racing, The Festival will see over £4.1 million awarded across 28 races featuring the finest horses, jockeys and

featuring the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase, and the sight of the best two mile chasers going head-tohead around the famous Cheltenham course is, for many people, the highlight of The Festival.

trainers who are set to battle it out for the highest racing

The climax of the entire jump racing season is Friday’s

honours.

Timico Cheltenham Gold Cup; the highlight of arguably the

Nothing compares to the roar of the crowd when the tapes

best day’s racing of the year, with an atmosphere to match.

go up for the first day of Champion Day: Tuesday 14th

To book tickets visit www.cheltenham.co.uk or call 0344

March launches The Festival and includes a packed seven

579 3003. For more information or to book Hospitality

race card including the most important 2 mile hurdle race

or Restaurant packages please call the Cheltenham

of the season, the Stan James Champion Hurdle.

Racecourse sales team on 01242 537 653.

Competition For your chance to win two Club tickets to Ladies Day at Cheltenham Racecourse simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the

Answer: Name:

following question:

On what day is Ladies Day at The Cheltenham Festival?

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Ladies Day CN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 22nd February 2017.

ISSUE twenty eight

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Address: Tel: Email:

¯

Cardiff Now february 2017

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

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

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ISSUE twentyÂŻeight Cardiff Now february 2017