Cardiff NOW September 2014 by PW Media & Publishing Ltd

NOW September 2014 Issue 2

HOME & GARDEN • FOOD & DRINK • COUNTRY WALKS • NATURE NOTEBOOK • WHAT’S ON • COMPETITIONS Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

CO UN TY M AG AZ IN E

YO U

Always had room in your heart for an AGA, but never enough space in the kitchen? Well now you have. See page 9 for more details

Introducing the new AGA City60

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

contents

September 2014

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

Home & Garden

n n n n

For advertisting enquiries please contact:

12 Property

Emma Cox 01905 727908 emma@pw-media.co.uk Alison Jones 01905 727907 ali@pw-media.co.uk Suzie Scott 01905 727904 suzie@pw-media.co.uk Contributors Glynis Dray Amelia Hanson

Preparing Your Lawn For Autumn Introducing the new AGA City60 Go Green, Recycle & Revitalise Your Home National Gardens Scheme Open Gardens to visit in September

n Short term solution... or long term let? A Space in the City covers all bases…

14 Nature Notebook

n Oak Tree Cottage

16 Health & Beauty

n The Eyes Have It All n Sparkle with Clive Ranger Jewellers n City centre Independent Opticians Showcase Exclusive Range at 4 Day Event

20 Weddings Design Paul Blyth Publisher Dawn Pardoe P W Media & Publishing Ltd

COMPETITION WINNERS Family Ticket to Cardiff Castle J. Taylor, Heol-Y-Pavin Tickets to the Malvern Autumn Show D. Dallimore, Pantmawr P. James, Cardiff J. Spear, Pontprennau 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 Worcestershire Now magazine your name and address may be forwarded to the host of said competition.

n Planning Your Big Day n Win a Night’s Stay For Two People at Jolyons Boutique Hotel n Patchwork Present

24 Food & Drink

n Chocolate Crème Chiboust

26 Motoring

n RMI Guide to Buying a Car

29 Senior Living

n About Care Homes

30 Cardiff Walk

n Radyr to St Fagans Circular

32 Education

n The Big Decision: Choosing A-Levels

37 Cardiff Past

n The History of Cardiff Docks

38 What’s On

n Friendly Festival Serves up a Feast For All The Family n Terrence Higgins Trust Cymru Gala Event

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

home & garden

Preparing Your Lawn For Autumn It’s traditional to give lawns a pick-me-up in September, to revitalise them after dry summer weather and to ensure they are fit enough to get through winter. However, with longer summers and lack of water in areas hit by hosepipe bans, it’s best to hold on until after some decent rain and you can see the grass is growing again.

Tackle moss and thatch Start off by controlling moss, which is often found in patches under trees or hedges. Treat by spreading a moss killer across the lawn and, within two weeks, the weed will have died and turned black. To prevent it from thriving in the future, it makes sense to tackle its cause. Either remove 6

branches or lower hedges that cast shade or improve drainage. Remove the dead moss by vigorously raking the surface with a spring-tined lawn rake. At the same time you’ll remove masses of old grass clippings and other debris that can build up on the surface of the lawn, forming a layer called thatch.

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

This can hinder drainage and encourages weeds and turf diseases. Throw the material into a wheelbarrow and put on your compost heap when finished. If you have a large garden, it’s possible to hire an electric raking machine.

Continued on page 8

home & garden

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

home & garden Improve drainage Areas of the lawn that get heavy traffic, such as play areas often become very compacted which can cause problems with drainage, weeds and moss. Improve by pushing a garden fork into the ground as far as you can, then wiggle it backwards and forwards to make air channels. Repeat this every 10cm (4 inches) across the lawn. Brush a sandy top dressing across the surface of the lawn so that it fills the holes, allowing air and water into the lawn - ready mixed bags can be bought from garden centres. On larger lawns you could hire a powered aerating machine or if your lawn is very heavy, use a hollow tining tool that removes plugs of grass, which can be filled with top dressing. Both handheld and powered versions are available to buy from garden centres or to hire.

Feed To finish off, perk up tired lawns by giving them a feed. Use an autumn lawn fertiliser, which is high in phosphates and potash. This will help strong roots to develop, which will produce healthy leaves. Don’t be tempted to use a spring fertiliser. These contain high levels of nitrogen, which encourages soft, sappy leaf growth that’s vulnerable to disease and could be damaged by frost.

If your lawn is in a hosepipe ban area, wait until you’ve had some decent rain and the grass is actively growing before carrying out any work.

Autumn and winter aftercare As autumn turns to winter, make the most of any dry days and rake the lawn to keep it free of

leaves. A thick layer of leaves will smother a lawn and weaken the grass, and it also provides winter shelter for unwelcome garden pests. Avoid walking on your lawn if it’s frosted, as this can also damage the grass. n By Amelia Hanson

#honestman4hire • Garden Clearance • Tidy Up • Physical Oddjobs • No Job Too Small • Work in Any Weather

Contact Mark on:

Tel: 07801 432863 chopper.11@hotmail.co.uk @oddjobscardiff

Reliable Cleaning Services supplied across the whole of Cardiff Weekly Cleans only £11 per hour (minimum 2 hours)

One-off Cleans only £15 per hour (minimum 4 hours)

All cleaners carefully vetted and fully insured

Call 07785 267 409 or email sales@homecleancardiff.co.uk Further information and rates can be found on

www.homecleancardiff.co.uk 8

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

home & garden

Introducing the Go Green, Recycle & new AGA City60 Revitalise Your Home Always had room in your heart for an AGA, but never enough space in the kitchen? Well now you have.

he electric AGA City60 is everything you would expect from an AGA, but wrapped up in a smaller package. At just 60cm wide – the same size as a slot-in cooker, or a standard kitchen unit – it’s perfect for smaller spaces. There are two ovens, offering roasting, baking and simmering functions and a hotplate which allows you to boil and simmer. Both the ovens and hotplates can be switched on when you need them and off when you don’t. Plus, with programmability, you can time the roasting/baking oven to be ready when you are. What’s more, if you place your AGA City60 order by the 30th September 2014 you will receive a ‘Getting you started’ cookware pack worth over £500, absolutely free.

Learn more about AGA Join us at AGA Cardiff on Saturday

20th September to learn more about the AGA City60 and our other new generation electric models – the AGA Total Control and AGA Dual Control. There will be live mini demonstrations throughout the day and hints and tips for making the most of your AGA. Plus, you will be able to take advantage of an exclusive event offer where you can receive 25% off selected AGA cookware. n To learn more, call or visit AGA Cardiff, 81 Caerphilly Road, Cardiff, CF14 4AE. T: 02920 521277 cardiff@aga-web.co.uk www.agaliving.com

Looking for a cost-effective and environmentallyfriendly way to revamp your home? Re-upholstery is the answer, as Julie Perkins of Cardiff-based Jewels Canley Interiors explains...

t’s a hard life. Particularly, if you are a piece of furniture and that is exactly why most of us take the time and care to choose the best quality furniture that we can afford. Be it a three-piece suite, occasional chairs or dining room furniture, the majority of us will choose furniture that not only looks good but fits well and is built to endure the stresses and strains of modern living. So, why is our first instinct to go out and buy new when our existing furniture starts to look tired or when we want a new look or plan to redecorate? The simple fact is that good quality furniture today costs more than double what it would have cost a few years ago. It can also be difficult to replace furniture that fits well, suits your style and offers that all important comfort factor. Despite the many incentives on offer from mass-producers and the allure of television adverts promising too-good-to-be-true deals, re-upholstery is becoming increasingly popular with those wanting a new look for their home. Unlike recovering, re-upholstery isn’t just about removing the existing covering. Our own team of highlytrained craftsmen strip the item right down to the frame, rebuilding from the frame upwards. When the frame is stripped down to the wood all the joints can be checked for wear and tear and any necessary repairs are made at this time. The furniture is then rebuilt using new springs and new filling to meet all current fire regulations before being recovered in your choice of fabric. In fact, we can refill cushions with your choice of filling including feather, foam or hollowfibre, depending upon your own preference. This same process applies to any item of good quality furniture - from bed frames to occasional chairs and large settees - you name it

and we’ve probably re-upholstered it! We do whatever is necessarywhether it is to simply recover some cushions or design and build you a bespoke piece of furniture from scratch. Of course, the real benefit of re-upholstery is that you are guaranteed a piece of truly unique furniture. With so many fabrics and materials available, you can transform the style and appearance of any room with the careful selection of colours and patterns that suit your taste and your needs. The options are endless. Cushions and footstools in funky fabrics will lift any sitting room, dining room chairs recovered in jazzy patterns will revitalise a tired dining room and bed frames can even be upholstered too! And, of course, classic and contemporary can be combined in harmony with the use of contrasting colours and patterns. Finally, it is also important to remember that re-upholstery is not only practical and cost-effective but it really is the environmentallyfriendly option as you won’t be filling our landfill sites with your unwanted furniture. n With over 25 years experience, Julie Perkins and her team at Jewels Canley offer interior design, re-upholstery and bespoke furniture services. For further information please visit www.jewelscanley.co.uk or one of our stores: 11 Whitchurch Road, Cardiff, CF14 3JN Tel. 02920 692255 2 Glebe Street, Penarth, CF64 1EB Tel 02920 707779

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

home & garden

National Gardens Scheme Open Gardens to visit in September As I write, a storm is brewing outside, the remnants of what was Hurricane Bertha sweep across the country. So here’s hoping that we have an Indian Summer in September when our last 2 gardens open for the NGS in Glamorgan The garden owners are awaiting your visit! Bordervale Plants Sandy Lane, Ystradowen, Cowbridge, Glamorgan, CF71 7SX Tuesday 9 September (10-5) Situated within a mature woodland valley (semi-tamed), with a stream and bog garden. Bordervale Plants has extensive mixed borders and a mini wild flower meadow, which provides diverse wildlife habitats. Bordervale Plants is a nursery specializing in unusual perennials and cottage garden plants. Nursery open: Fri - Sun (10-5), (and often open Mon - Thurs) Mar – Sept (not for NGS other than dates specified Chapter Community Garden, Market Road, Canton, Cardiff, Glamorgan, CF5 1QE Open: Saturday 13 September (10.30-4.30) Canton Community Gardens was established in July 2009, with the intention of bringing local people together for a range of gardening, recycling and environmental projects in the area. The Chapter Community Garden is an on going project involving members and volunteers of Canton Community Gardens. In January 2010, they started talking to Chapter Arts Centre about the idea of establishing a community garden at the front of the centre. They then started running fundraising, projects and awareness events to attract volunteers to develop the garden. This was followed by a series of participatory workshops with local garden designer Michele Fitzsimmons of Edible Landscaping to work out the design and planting of the community garden. In November 2011, the project was awarded £36,000 in the Big Lottery’s Peoples Millions Awards, which allowed them to undertake large scale hard landscaping work in the garden. They have also been awarded funding from Environment Wales, Cardiff Council and Keep Wales Tidy towards various outreach projects, plants & equipment.

National Gardens Scheme Gardens open by arrangement in September Three gardens in September are open by arrangement, give them a quick call or email and pop in to see late summer/autumn planting. 10

Brynheulog 45 Heol y Graig, Cwmgwrach, Neath, Glamorgan SA11 5TW Lorraine Rudd Telephone: 01639 722593 Email: lorrainejrudd@sky.com This keen plants woman’s hillside garden perfectly reflects the dramatic setting and surrounding natural beauty. ¾-acre plot on many levels with cottage style planting. A surprise is the tropical greenhouse! Two other greenhouses show Begonias and Carnations. Wildlife is a priority in this garden with special plantings to attract butterflies etc. An extensive large rockery gives the alpine lover lots to see!. A polytunnel houses all year-round vegetables. Bryn y Ddafad June Jenkins, Bryn y Ddafad Welsh St. Donats Cowbridge, CF71 7ST T: 01446 774451 junejenkins@bydd.co.uk The front garden gives a warm welcome as it is set in a small courtyard with raised beds, packed with interesting and unusual plants. These are informally planted using pastel shades of annuals, perennials and small shrubs. The terraced rear garden is larger with colourful raised beds and borders. The mature trees and shrubs give the garden a sense of place. A lily pond has a small water feature, providing that gentle sound of rippling so apt for a country garden A recent addition to the garden is the new pergola, which is already smothered with roses, it leads to a pretty bridge, where you can stop and wonder over the bubbling natural stream. A new bog garden has been planted next to a small bank of rhododendrons and azaleas. A garden not to be missed! Knightsbridge Don and Ann Knight Knightsbridge,

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

21 Monmouth Way Boverton, Llantwit Major, CF61 2GT T: 07726 530088 anncknight@hotmail.co.uk The Japanese garden with a large collection of Bonsai, which includes an English elm, oak, and a larch. A fabulous pagoda sits proudly at the centre of the garden surrounded by two water features, you will be amazed!

New Gardens for 2015 We are recruiting new gardens to open in 2015. Opening your garden for charity can be a very rewarding and valuable experience, for you, your visitors and the charities that benefit. If you have a garden that is worth visiting, please think about opening it for the NGS. Contact Rosamund Davies NGS County Organiser Glamorgan 01656880048 New gardens recruited so far are: 33 Stallcourt Avenue, Cardiff. A passionate gardener Rebecca Remigio is a keen plants person! Her small garden which is only one year old is blossoming full of colour, vibrancy and scents. Stuffed full of interesting plants, it has a contemporary feel yet full of cottage style garden plants. It is an inspiration for those that have a small garden. 13 Bedford Road, Cefn Cribwr. A charming garden with borders full of roses and a huge pond. Planted informally with seating areas to catch a breath and some sunshine. Cefn Methodist Church Garden, Cefn Cribwr has been lovingly restored and brought back to life by a team of experienced volunteers. Informally planted with roses and perennials. A woodland walk has been cleared, it offers shade and you can wander through and discover the numerous wild orchids. Llanedeyrn Primary School in Cardiff garden has a very enthusiastic following at the school. All children involve themselves within the garden whether it is watering the veg patch or collecting seeds. This year they have had two firsts in Cardiff and Bloom. A 1st for recycled container planting and another 1st for a large school garden! They are now all geared up for opening the garden for the first time in 2015 for the NGS. n

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

property

Short term solution... or long term let? A Space in the City covers all bases… Richard Godfrey, Founder of A Space in the City, the twice Wales Fast Growth 50 award winning serviced apartment and executive lettings provider, explains why the business has all accommodation bases covered.

“

Since A Space in the City incorporated in 2005, our core commitment to service, expertise and value enabled us to grow to become the largest serviced apartment provider in Wales, offering first rate short stay accommodation across Cardiff and Swansea. As the business developed, we quickly identified that our proposition was transferable from the short term to the longer term market – hence the creation of our Executive Lettings division. To give an example, a top executive flying into Cardiff to investigate a partnership opportunity may stay a few nights in our luxury serviced apartments…but when he comes back for 6 months to manage that project to fruition, he is looking for a lower cost, yet equally comfortable, home-from-home solution” Continues Tim Green, A Space in the City’s Executive Lettings Manager: “We knew that we had a rather unique basis upon which to develop a property lettings practice - a portfolio

of high quality properties, years of intensive property management experience, an unsurpassed understanding of the South Wales market plus a low operational cost base thanks to synergies with our existing in-house cleaning, maintenance and administration teams. All of these are crucial considerations to the professional landlord looking - but the icing on the cake is our impressive address book of corporate contacts, meaning that our landlords can rest assured that their rapidly sourced tenants are of the right calibre. And as those tenants work mostly for major Cardiff based organisations, many of which are

info@aspaceinthecity.co.uk 08452 60 70 50

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

already serviced apartment clients, we never rest on our laurels. We strive for the highest levels of excellence in all transactions with both landlords and tenants alike. For landlords, we impart essential industry knowledge per our years of property experience; and for tenants, busy professionals that they are, we remove the hassle of home-finding and efficiently streamline the lettings process. At the heart of this commitment is our investment in people. We strongly feel that talent management is vital to ensure we always remain highly trained and professionally qualified – that’s why the calibre of our team is on par with the quality of the properties that we manage” This year, A Space in the City have further developed their strategic growth plans by joining a network of the most reputable serviced apartment operators across the globe. Not only can this team based in Wales provide short, medium and long term accommodation solutions locally but now they can do so in every major city worldwide. n

Tel: 029 2009 9902 Email: lettings@aspaceinthecity.co.uk Website: www.execlettings.co.uk

Cymric House, 2 Bed, Cardiff Bay, £1650 per calendar month

A truly stunning penthouse apartment situated in the heart of Cardiff Bay. Finished and furnished to an exceptional standard, with two en suite bedrooms with king sized beds, a spacious open plan living, kitchen and dining area with access on to a 2000+ sq. ft. roof terrace with exceptional views of Cardiff. Also benefits from secure allocated parking.

Maia, 2 Bed, Cardiff Bay, £1250 per calendar month

Unbeatable views from a large south facing balcony with this waterfront apartment in Cardiff Bay. This exceptionally spacious apartment boasts two bedrooms, en suite shower room, luxurious bathroom and large open plan living room and kitchen. Within minutes of Mermaid Quay and benefitting from 24 hour concierge and secure allocated parking.

Ocean Reach, 2 Bed, Cardiff Bay, £1095 per calendar month

Fantastic views across Cardiff Bay from the balcony of this modern, 2 bedroom apartment in the prestigious Ocean Reach development, situated in an unrivalled location adjacent to the St David’s Hotel. This beautiful property offers two double bedrooms, en suite shower room, bathroom and open plan living room and kitchen. Also comes with secure allocated parking.

Florence House, 2 Bed, Cardiff Bay, £995 per calendar month

An extremely spacious, luxury two bedroom furnished apartment in Century Wharf, with access to on site leisure facilities including gymnasium and swimming pool. Briefly consists of two bedrooms, master with en suite, main bathroom, large lounge and separate kitchen. This wonderful property is ideal for professionals looking for a larger property still within easy reach of both Cardiff Bay and the city centre. Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

nature notebook

Oak Tree Cottage The autumn is the perfect time take a break (who doesn’t like long walks over crunchy and colourful leaves followed by a leisurely roast dinner?) and if you’re planning a staycation, Pembrokeshire is hard to beat. A two-hour drive from Cardiff, it’s home to beautiful beaches, stunning coastal walks and all the wildlife you could wish for.

ak Tree Cottage is nestled in the heart of the beautiful Teifi Marsh nature reserve and is now open to guests thanks to support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery which has enabled The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales to renovate this bolt hole for nature lovers. The cosy cottage sleeps four people and is the perfect setting for watching a variety of local wildlife. Visitors have already enjoyed spotting the family of otters on the river at dawn and a wonderful display of bats at night. You will immediately unwind to the sounds of nature and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of this truly

“

unique setting. The cottage is a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts, star gazers, walkers and cyclists. Kids will love playing in the Cherry Tree Adventure Park, discovering the Willow Maze, exploring our fantastic Nature Trails on foot or two wheels, and meeting our resident Water Buffalo. The nearby Welsh Wildlife Visitor Centre also has lots to offer including an interactive indoor area and Glasshouse Café which offers top-class local, home-cooked food. Nearby Cilgerran Castle is well worth a visit and is walking distance from the cottage. A walk across the beautiful reserve takes you to the

You will immediately unwind to the sounds of nature and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of this truly unique setting

town of Cardigan where there are some lovely places to eat if you don’t fancy cooking, and two theatres as well as a cinema. The profits from the cottage mean that The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales can continue its work to protect the wildlife at Teifi Marsh and its other nature reserves. The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales is part of Wildlife Trusts Wales, the largest voluntary organisation in Wales dedicated to protecting wildlife and wild places for future generations. Our six local Wildlife Trusts across Wales manage 216 nature reserves and we are supported by over 25,000 members. If you’d like to get away from it all, why not give Oak Tree Cottage a try? Visit http:// www.welshwildlife.org/oak-tree-cottage-cwtch/ oak-tree-cottage/ for information and to book call 01239 621600 or email w.barnes-jones@ welshwildlife.org n

“

For more information about People’s Postcode Lottery and how players support charities across the UK go to www.postcodelottery.co.uk/Charities 14

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

health & beauty health & beauty

ELEMIS Elemis Pro-Collagen Hydra-Gel Eye Masks. These clinically proven hydra-gel eye masks are formulated to instantly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. £46.00

CLARINS Our award winning 3-Dot Eye Liner returns in a new limited edition brown shade for the Autumn. Enriched with growth-stimulating ingredients that condition lashes when you weave the handy pen tool between them, the gentle, triple point sponge applicator also delivers precise lines and intense colour with ease. £20.00

CLINIQUE

New Lash Power Feathering Mascara. Out-to-there length and fine-tuned separation plus a feathery-soft look and feel after every buildable coat. £18.00

SHAVATA

Slanted tweezers. These wider grip slanted tweezers are especially great at removing hair in bulk, with accuracy. Made from the finest quality stainless steel and hand finished in Switzerland. £20.50

iLash LIFT An amazing alternative to lash extensions. The iLash lift treatment revolutionises old fashioned perming techniques in a number of ways, the innovative technique gently lifts & straightens using comfortable silicon shields, giving you thicker looking and more voluminous lashes. The iLash Lift straightens the lash giving you stunning length, volume and lift for your natural eyelashes.

CHANEL

The monochrome eyeshadow by CHANEL gains intensity. Tender or passionate, eyelids are adorned with assertive, vibrant and uncompromising colour. £23.00

ELF Mineral Eyeshadow. Bring a touch of natural beauty to your eyes with these soft, translucent shades that add subtle highlights for daytime or increased drama for night. £3.00

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

£10 off Opening Times: Monday Closed Tuesday 10.00 - 18.00 Wednesday 10.00 - 19.00

an iLash Lift at The Lash and Brow Boutique @ Triniti with this advert Thursday 10.00 - 19.00 Friday 10.00 - 18.00 Saturday 09.00 - 17.00 Sunday Closed

14 Churchill Way, Cardiff, CF10 2DX Tel: 029 2023 1666 E: info@teamtriniti.co.uk W: www.trinitisalons.co.uk

Stockist Details: Clinique - www.clinique.co.uk. Clarins - 0800 036 3558 - www.clarins.co.uk. ELF - www.eyeslipsface.co.uk. Shavata - www.shavata.co.uk. Chanel - 0207 493 3836 - www.chanel.co.uk. Elemis - 0117 316 1888 - www.elemis.com or www.timetospa.co.uk.

The eyes have it all

health competition & beauty

Sparkle with Clive Ranger Jewellers

e are a family owned and independent jeweller with decades of experience in the world of diamonds. At Clive Ranger we enjoy a special relationship with our customers. And every time someone enters our store we see it as an opportunity to take them on a very special journey. Some of the most fascinating aspects of our work are not even on display. So we take the time to explain to people about the skills and dedication of our designers and diamond graders in the Clive Ranger Gem Laboratory. The ability to provide genuinely individual pieces of diamond jewellery to suit any special occasion (and then resize and adjust them in years to come) is something that sets us apart from ordinary, run of the mill jewellers.

Encouraging People to Make an Emotional Investment Buying diamond jewellery is an undeniably sound

financial move but this is by no means the main motivation for purchase. For the vast majority of our customers this will be a rare excursion into unknown territory. It is a special occasion for them in every respect and everything we can do to engender a feel-good factor helps them to gain confidence and satisfaction from their visit. From the way we display our products to the supportive attitude of our staff – it all helps to give customers a relaxing and totally pleasureable experience.

Building a Lasting Relationship Based on Peace of Mind Our aim is always for each customer to take away a sense of pride and satisfaction along with their purchase. The calming ambiance of our stores, the unhurried advice of expert staff and the long-term reassurance of our aftersales services will help you to cherish a unique piece of jewellery for a long time to come. Many customers comment favourably on the

Competition For your chance to win a Tresor Paris bracelet worth £149 courtesy of Clive Ranger Jewellers simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

Which Arcade is Clive Ranger Jewellers located in?

old fashioned values and expertise which they encounter at Clive Ranger. For us, making your next visit both memorable and enjoyable is all part of the service. It all adds up to a level of customer interaction well beyond the ordinary shopping experience. We seek every step of the pleasurable way to create a bespoke but welcoming atmosphere which provides the perfect setting for our unique products. A visit to Clive Ranger should always bring with it a sense of anticipation. Everyone deserves something special in their lives and our desire to share our passion for diamonds with our customers fuels everything we do. We call it the ‘Diamond Experience’ and we’d love to share it with you. n Cliver Ranger Jewelllers, 2-6 Castle Arcade, Cardiff, CF10 1BU www.cliveranger.co.uk

Answer: Name:

Address: Tel:

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Clive Ranger WN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 24th September 2014.

Email:

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk 17 If you do not wish to receive information on forthcoming events, news and offers from Clive Ranger please tick this box

health & beauty

City centre Independent Opticians Showcase Exclusive Range at 4 Day Event Exclusive exhibition of Rayban, Oakley, Tiffany & Co. eyewear collection at Direct Eyecare!

e are delighted to host an exclusive event at Direct Eyecare Opticians 27/31 High Street Arcade, Cardiff between the 2nd & 5th of October 2014. Representatives from Ray-Ban and Oakley

will be exhibiting their full range of eyewear from 9.30am on 2nd October with Tiffany & Co. showcasing on the 3rd of October. Direct Eyecare customers new and old will also benefit from expert advice and a massive £50 off frames

£50 off* *Minimum spend £199, conditions apply, valid 2nd - 5th October 2014

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

ordered at the event – NOT TO BE MISSED! We look forward to seeing you during the event on 2nd – 5th October, all welcome! n

2 for 1

on POLO RALPH LAUREN or EMPORIO ARMANI* *Any Polo or EA frame in stock, includes free standard single vision lenses, conditions apply, cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers, valid 2nd - 5th October 2014

27/31 High St. Arcade, City Centre, Cardiff, CF10 1BB Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk Tel: 02921 328 895 www.directeyecare.co.uk

weddings

Planning Your Big Day There are a lot of things to consider when planning your perfect wedding. Here are some handy tips to help you get started Location Where you decide to hold your wedding ceremony and reception is one of the most important and costly decisions you will make. Therefore there are a lot of factors and considerations to keep in mind before you commit yourself. Will you have your ceremony in a church and go elsewhere for your reception, or will you have the whole day in one venue? Do you want a traditional wedding, or a fun, unique wedding that is personal to you? The options are endless. These days you can hold your wedding in a zoo, underground cave, aquarium, theme park, castle; the list goes on. For this reason, it is important to establish the theme of your wedding before you set about choosing your venue. The first things you should decide when you begin to plan your wedding should be your budget and approximate number of guests. Both of these pieces of information will be crucial when you begin the search for your dream venue. All venues have a maximum number of guests, for instance, and some have a minimum. If you have found an ideal venue for your wedding, but it is a bit out of your price range, enquire as to whether they have seasonal or weekday discounts to cut down on the costs.

Photography Your wedding photographs will be the singular lasting memory of your special day. They are likely to be displayed in your home, as well as the homes of close family and friends and will last for generations. The same is true of your wedding DVD. Therefore, choosing your photographer and videographer is not a task to be taken lightly. It is important to find someone who will capture your day perfectly. Firstly, never book a photographer or videographer unless you have met face to face. If you are interested in someone specific, arrange a meeting. Discuss your needs and ideas, review portfolios, ask for references; you can’t be too careful. Not only is it important that your chosen photographer and videographer are talented, you will also need to find someone with whom you connect; select someone who understands your flair, and the vision of your wedding.

Wedding Flowers Flowers have come to play an important role in wedding decorations. The groom, for instance, will wear a flower that features in his bride’s bouquet. This tradition stems from the Medieval Knight wearing his Lady’s colours. Every flower 20

has a different symbol and meaning. Red roses, for instance, are popular with brides the world over as they symbolise love. Flowers can also aid in giving your venue a real wow factor, but with so many different floral options, where should you start? With dozens of florists to choose from, choosing one to create your wedding flowers can be a difficult task. Your floral arrangements will be one of the most important features of the decoration, so it is important to choose your designer carefully. To start, why not search the web, look in magazines and speak to friends or family who have recently got married about what they chose? Once you have a short list of five to ten florists, visit their websites to get a feel for which ones could best produce the flowers for your wedding. Select your three favourites, arrange a meeting with them to discuss the specifics of your themes and colours (take swatches and colour samples). This will also give you an opportunity to view their portfolios and discuss cost.

Evening Entertainment Alongside your choice of bridal entrance music, the entertainment you select for your evening reception is the most important music decision you will make. As with many other aspects of wedding planning, it is essential to first and foremost consider what would be appropriate music to continue your theme. Once you have landed on a genre (or even a couple of genres),

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

begin to consider whether you will hire a DJ or a live band or singer. If you are having a fun wedding in the country, why not hire a barn dance band? If you are having a family filled affair, opt for the popular cheesy wedding disco. The options are limitless, but remember to always keep in mind what your guests will want; select music they can have a good dance to.

Catering Finding a good caterer is paramount. So plan early. Book a caterer at least 12 months before the wedding date if the engagement period permits. There are two types of caterers: on-site (in-house) caterers and off-premises caterers. On-site caterers work within a particular facility and provide all catering services if you book your event with that facility. You will typically find on-site caterers at hotels, banquet halls and country houses. Off-premises caterers provide mobile catering services for events held at nearly any location, indoors or outdoors. If you find a reception facility with on-site catering service, be certain not to base your decision on location alone, as a beautiful locale will not be as fondly remembered if the food wasn’t to match. Always sample the catering menu. Start by speaking with several caterers over the phone before setting up any person-toperson interviews. When calling be prepared to give some key details: your wedding date and

Continued on page 20

competition

Win a Night’s Stay For Two People at Jolyons Boutique Hotel A touch of sheer opulence for a truly magical day...

rom small, initimate affairs to complete hotel exclusivity, Jolyons at No. 10 offers bespoke wedding day packages that are as unique as your individual big day wishes Our enchanting White Room which boasts breathtaking views across Cardiff’s picturesque Bute Park provides a lusciously lavish yet intimate setting for both weddng breakfasts and evening parties - and out one wedding per day policy ensures you receive only the most exceptional service and utmost exclusivity for your truly special day. Our 21 ultra opulent rooms and suites -

adorned with an eclectic mix of grand walnut wardrobes, sumptuous Italian beds, splashes of leopard print, gold armchairs and Japanese-style plunge baths - also provide the perfect place for the wedding party to relax, unwind and simply lap up the luxury - so why not enquire with our wedding planner about our special wedding rates and discounts? Our fresh seasonal menus are specially designed each season - but for a truly personal touch, our executive chef can work with you to create a deliciously bespoke menu that will perfectly complement your day.

Competition For your chance to win a night’s stay for two people on a bed and breakfast basis at Jolyons Boutique Hotel simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

The enchanting white room used to host weddings at Jolyons No. 10 over looks which picturesque park? A: Bute Park B: Central Park C: Hyde Park Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Jolyons CN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 24th September 2014. Terms & Conditions: Prize and dates are subject to availability, excludes city event dates to book contact The General Manager carl@ jolyons.co.uk

To find out more about our wedding packages - which can be tailored to suit all sizes and budgets - simply get in touch today to book a free consultation over a glass of bubbles! n Jolyons Boutique Hotel 10 Cathedral Road, Cardiff, CF11 9LJ Tel: 02920 091 900 weddings@jolyons.co.uk www.jolyons10.co.uk

Answer: Name:

Address: Tel: Email:

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk If you do not wish to receive information on forthcoming events, news and offers from Jolyons Boutique Hotel please tick this box21

weddings map), accommodation inserts, order of ceremony programs, reception menus, place cards, table numbers and Thank You cards. Some of these may not be applicable to every wedding, and some weddings will require something that is not listed. Whatever your requirements, it is important to keep the style of your stationery close to the theme and tone of your day.

Bridal Hair

the time of day your reception will be held, the style and formality of your reception event, an estimate number of guests and the location of your reception (if hiring an off-premises caterer). This will also be the best time to request sample menus and price lists. You will find that rates are typically charged on a per person basis. After calling several caterers you should begin setting up the initial interviews. It’s a good idea to interview at least two to three caterers before making a final decision in order to compare prices, services and menu varieties. Find a caterer that is willing to incorporate your individual tastes and style into your reception menu. A reputable, established caterer should be able to offer you a portfolio of past weddings and other events they have catered. Ask to view their portfolio. This will allow you to visually discover the caterer’s style, work and talents.

Transport The most important aspect of wedding transport is getting the bridal party from where they got ready to the ceremony venue. This will include the bride, her maid of honour, bridesmaids, flower girls and parents of the bride. If there are too many people in your bridal party to fit in one vehicle, it is possible to make two trips, or, of course, hire two vehicles. Whatever you choose, it must be timed to precision. Discuss with your car hire company exactly what will happen if there is a breakdown or other emergency. Even though it is more than likely that everything will run smoothly on the day, it is always best to be prepared for the worst. Always ensure to ask your chosen hire company as many questions as possible about the transport you have selected. Do they have a special wedding package that will suit you perfectly? Is champagne included? What happens if a vehicle breaks down? What exactly is included in the service? What is the deposit? At which stage is the full amount due? Exhaust this type of questioning before you commit yourself to anything; it is always better to be safe than sorry. 22

Bridalwear Probably the singularly most exciting aspect of wedding planning is deciding what you will wear on your big day. There are thousands upon thousands of wedding dress styles, designs and options; there is literally a dress for every single bride. This guide will present an outline of the different options and help you decide exactly what kind of dress you want. Often, the style of dress you choose will fall in line with the tone of your big day. However, this is not a strict rule, merely a starting point. There is nothing to say that you can’t have the princess dress you have always dreamed of if you are getting married at a registry office. Likewise, if you are getting married in a grand building, there is no rule against wearing a simple, elegant gown. The choice, of course, is entirely yours. The only thing that matters is that you feel your absolute best on your big day. Don’t let anyone interfere with your dress choice!

The first thing to consider when trying to choose a hair style for your big day is the tone of the event. For an informal daytime wedding, wearing your hair down is probably appropriate, while an up-do may be more suited to a formal evening occasion. It is also important to consider any veil or accessories you may plan to wear. Many brides choose to hire a specialist designer to style their hair on the day. This is advisable, as a professional will be able to provide advice about what looks good with which face shape, colour, accessories, veil and general theme. If you do opt to hire a professional, a ‘test run’ will often be included in the package. When you go for this appointment, be sure to walk around with your styled hair. Ensure that it is comfortable, and likely to stay in place for the whole day. A general rule is, the more simple the better. Lots of hair pins can sometimes be uncomfortable, and a very intricate do may be too delicate for the wear and tare of a wedding day. Furthermore, it is often a good idea to make an appointment with your chosen designer in their salon for your big day. Hair stylists and make-up artists are often most comfortable with their own tools and equipment around them. While discussing possible styles with your stylist, keep these factors in mind.

Groomswear It can be all too easy to focus so much on what you will be wearing for the big day that you forget about your poor groom. It is only fair to let him in on at least a bit of the action, and what better place to start than his suit? Whether you are choosing his suit together (advisable, considering how unlikely it is that he will take into account colour, theme and style) or whether he is selecting it himself. The main thing to consider is the time of the wedding? If it is before the sun goes down or six o’clock (whichever comes first), then it is in the daytime. After, and it is at night. This is important because clothing appropriate for daytime weddings differs dramatically from clothing appropriate in the evenings.

Wedding Stationery Wedding invitations are undeniably an essential part of wedding stationery but you will also need to consider Save the Date cards, engagement party invitations, bachelor and bachelorette party invitations, travel information inserts (including a

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

Bridal Make-Up Hiring a professional to apply your make-up for your big day is a popular choice with brides. Ensure that the artist will offer a trial beforehand. Discuss your ideas prior to the wedding and make sure that you are both on the same page. Many brides opt for a natural look on their big day, although some prefer to go for a glamorous style. This option is becoming increasingly popular, which is logical. Often for special occasions, women will change their clothes, jewellery and accessories but not their make-up. The difference between natural-looking makeup and glamorous make-up is usually the use of darker, more shimmering colours. These will give you a much more distinctive look than shades that naturally blend into your skin. Whatever your preference, don’t forget to discuss it thoroughly with your chosen make-up artist. If you are unsure, experiment until you come across a look that will make you feel a million dollars. You deserve nothing less for your big day! n

weddings

Patchwork Present

atchwork Present is a cash gift list designed for couples getting married who don’t want to celebrate their love with spoons, napkins and other department store stuff. Whether it’s a piece of art, your honeymoon or something special for the home, this unique and creative gift registry lets friends and family get together to buy you one big wedding gift - piece by piece.

How it works Patchwork Present is free, fun and easy to use. If your one wedding wish is to fund your honeymoon, you simply customise one of their many travel patchworks or create your own from scratch. Then show

your friends and family your ideal adventure - broken down into pieces - so they can choose which part of your trip they’d like to treat you to. Independent of any retailers, money given by friends and family goes directly to your PayPal account (minus a 3% commission) for you to spend when and where you like. When you’ve collected all your funds and are on your honeymoon, you can upload photos to your account to email thank you notes, along with a picture of you enjoying your experience, to the friends who funded each piece. n

NOW

Tel: 07803 740 700

Email: homemadetasteofcardiff@hotmail.com Facebook: Facebook.com/homemadetasteofcardiff Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

food & drink

Chocolate Crème Chiboust By Gareth Dobbs at Duck Egg Bleu, 435 Cowbridge Road East, Victoria Park, Cardiff Tel: 02920 220993 www.duckeggbleu.co.uk

Chocolate chiboust Ingredients • • • • • • • • • • •

10gm caster sugar 2 egg yolks 100ml full fat milk 5gm vanilla extract 10gm cornflour 100gm dark chocolate (+80% cocoa) 2 gelatine leaf 90gm caster sugar 10gm liquid glucose 35ml water 4 egg whites

When the sugar/water mix gets to 119° pour onto the egg white whisking in a steady stream until the egg white are back at room temperature.

8 9

Give the chocolate mixture a little whisk, then lightly fold in the Italian meringue. Pour into moulds and freeze overnight.

Hibiscus Consomme Ingredients

Method

1 2

Bring the milk and the vanilla pod to the boil, allow to infuse for one hour.

Whisk the egg yolks and the 30g caster sugar together until the texture is fluffy. Add the cornflour and whisk till smooth.

Whisk in the milk to the egg mixture then put back onto the heat and whisk till boiling, allow to boil for one minute.

Take off the heat and add the gelatine leaves and the chocolate, pour into a bowl and cover with parchment to stop a skin setting.

Put the 240g sugar, water & invert sugar in a pan and bring to boil heat to 119° test with a sugar thermometer.

Whilst this is boiling, whisk the egg white to soft peaks.

• • • •

125ml water 125gm caster sugar 10gm dried hibiscus flowers 25ml cognac

Method

1 2 3

Bring water, sugar & hibiscus flowers to the boil and simmer for 2mins. Leave to infuse for 2/3hrs.

Once infused, strain in a clean container and stir in the vodka and cognac.

Clotted Cream Ice Cream Ingredients • 280ml Full Fat Milk • 6 egg yolks • 40gm liquid glucose

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

• 250gm soured cream • 140gm caster sugar • 5ml vanilla extract

Method

Put the milk & scraped out vanilla pod in a pan and bring to a simmer, put to one side and allow to infuse for one hour, then strain and return to a simmer.

2 3 4 5

Whisk together the egg yolks, liquid glucose & caster sugar till doubled in volume. When the milk is at a simmer, whisk into the egg mixture. Return to the stove whisking constantly until it comfortably coats the back of a spoon.

Remove from the heat and pour through a fine sieve, cover with parchment paper and allow to cool.

Once cool fold in the clotted cream and churn in an ice cream machine. n

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

motoring

RMI Guide to Buying a Car Motorists should consider the following checklist before and after purchase to make sure you have not overlooked anything.

When looking for a car, there are a number of things to look out for:

• Are you worried about depreciation values?

• A newly-registered car is sold with a minimum of three-year manufacturer warranty. But do read the small print. On used vehicles it is the dealer or a third party provider who supplies the warranty, probably between three and 12 months depending on the age and general condition of the car. RMI members are obliged to provide a minimum level of warranty as a condition of their membership. However, the length of manufacturer warranties now offered on new vehicles mean that when you buy a used vehicle, it may still be covered by that warranty too. • When comparing deals use the on-the-road price which manufacturers now recommend. This is made up of the basic ex-works price, value added tax, number plate, delivery charges, and road fund licence, and first registration fee.

The level of choice could seem overwhelming, but car magazines and reputable websites should be able to answer any questions you have before you take the first step to a dealer to look at and test drive a car.

Before purchase • • • •

What sort of car do you want? Will the car fit the garage? Confirm insurance class and area cost. Will there be a price increase due to delivery delay? • Understand fully the deposit terms, conditions of sale, any finance agreement including interest charge, and the trade-in price on your existing car and how long that price can be maintained. • What the warranty terms are – will there be restrictions?

What sort of car do you want?

Test drive

• • • • • •

When exploring the market for your new car, remember the financial outlay is high, so make sure you ask for a test drive - many people don’t. If you are not a car expert, take a knowledgeable friend along with you. Some manufacturers now let you test drive a car over 48 hours.

Will you carry goods or people or both? Diesel, petrol, or alternative fuel? Do you make long or short journeys? Do you have children? Automatic or manual? Small engine for economy and low emissions or larger engine for power? • Two, three, four or five door? • Saloon, coupé, sports, estate, roadster, SUV (sports utility vehicle) or MPV (multi-purpose vehicle)? 26

When you test drive, check: • Is the seating position comfortable? • Is there enough head room? • Can you adjust the seat or steering wheel?

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

• Check vision, especially the A-pillar, and mirrors • How is the road-handling and do the brakes feel safe? • Seat belts working and comfortable? If the car you have now tested and the advice you’ve had from the dealer fulfils your requirements, you should feel confident about buying the vehicle.

Buying the car Before buying you should decide how to pay: • if you are able to pay up front, you can pay by either cash, cheque, bankers draft, or on your credit card. • Finance deals let you pay by instalments, spreading the cost over a number of years after which you can trade or keep the car.

At delivery • Ensure you are given full familiarisation of the vehicle controls. • Get a copy of the pre-delivery inspection form. • Check driver’s instruction book. • Check spare wheel and tools. • Check for any scratches or small dents. • Check lights, windscreen wipers, door locks, electric windows, security alarm, in-car sound system etc, are all in good working order. • Check tax and insurance documents. • Check invoice is completed correctly. • Insurance cover note if required. n

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

senior living

About Care Homes The core function of a care home is to provide care. This includes ‘personal’ care, such as help with washing, dressing, eating or toileting, and may also include nursing.

ther forms of help and support are also offered to care home residents - for example help to pursue activities, make trips out or keep in contact with friends and family. Because of their core purpose, there is a framework of regulation and inspection to try to ensure that all homes perform to minimum ‘national standards’. These standards cover treating residents with respect; involving them in decisions about their care; providing care that meets their needs; securing their safety; and ensuring appropriate staff skills, staffing levels and staff management. The central purpose of providing care helps explain several things about care homes:

Accommodation Care homes do not generally provide selfcontained accommodation such as a flat or bungalow. Typically residents will occupy a single room, usually with en-suite facilities. There is an assumption that older people needing the level of care provided by care homes do not require the amount of space, privacy and sense of ownership or security of tenure that most would have been used to where they lived previously (and in the case of short-stay residents, will return to).

Communal space, facilities and activities Care homes generally have generous shared spaces – a lounge and dining room at minimum, but often more than one lounge as well as activity and exercise rooms. Many have gardens for residents to use.

Staffing Care homes run 24 hours, provide meals, care and support, laundry services, activities and much more. They require maintenance and cleaning. And of course they need management and administration. It is not surprising therefore that a typical care home employs as many staff as it has residents.

Activities Most homes arrange activities and outings for residents – some intended as physical therapy, others for enjoyment. Some homes are committed to helping individual residents pursue their own interests, rather than, or as well as, encouraging them to join in group activities. Some homes cultivate relationships with local schools, Age UKs/Age Concerns, RVS branches or other external organisations and encourage ‘outsiders’ to visit their homes to run activities, teach, or simply meet and talk to residents.

Cost Care homes are expensive to run, and therefore to stay in, with fees ranging from £450 to over £1000 a week. The fact that charges are very similar to the cost of full board in a reasonable hotel is no coincidence; most of a care home operator’s costs are the same as a hotel owner’s. The cost of providing care, although significant, is much less than the cost of providing the setting in which the care is delivered and the accompanying bundle of hotel-type services.

Why might I need to move to a care home? You may need to move to a care home if you need care throughout the day and night, and if this is impossible to arrange, or afford, at home. All care homes can provide help with what the professionals call the ‘activities of daily living’ – washing, dressing, bathing, getting in/out of bed, going to the toilet and taking medicine. In addition, nursing homes employ registered nurses and are able to help people who are unable to walk or stand on their own, have continence problems, have breathing difficulties or have an illness or disability which is severe. Many homes specialise in caring for people who are mentally frail, generally people living with alzheimer’s or dementia. These illnesses cause confusion and memory loss, which can lead to anxiety or erratic behaviour. Good quality care and therapy, sometimes alongside drug treatment, can greatly improve the quality of life of alzheimer’s and dementia sufferers.

Why might I choose to move to a care home? You might choose or prefer to move to a care home if you feel you are making too many demands on a partner, your wider family, neighbours or friends; or because you are not happy with the care provided by visiting paid carers. You might want to be rid of the challenge

of employing carers, or indeed of maintaining a home. You might feel you want to retreat from the world, to live the last stage of your life somewhere peaceful, to be looked after, and perhaps to prepare for your death.

About choosing and paying for a care home Many people still struggle to understand, or accept, where care in a care home fits in our National Health Service (NHS). Rightly or wrongly, the reality is that it doesn’t really fit. Care homes are not run by or for the NHS, and with some exceptions, the NHS does not cover the cost of a stay in a care home. Local councils, on the other hand, are very much involved. They have responsibility for assessing the care needs of any older person in their area who asks for this, and for contributing to the cost of care for people who cannot afford it themselves. For a majority of older people, therefore, the local council can or must be involved in a decision to move to a care home. Only those confident enough to make the decision themselves, and well-off enough to be sure they will never need financial help, can afford go it alone.

Take your time to decide Whether you are just thinking about a move or responding to a crisis, decisions may have to be made in a hurry and you may receive conflicting advice. Whatever the reasons, remember there may be alternatives to consider. In any event there are choices to make – choices that may make all the difference to how happy you will feel once settled in a new environment. Moving to live in a care home brings huge benefits to many older people – but it’s a big decision, and one to take some time over, however pressing making your mind up appears at the moment. n

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

cardiff walk

Radyr to St Fagans Circular A pleasant circular walk starting besides the River Taff at Radyr Railway Station. It then makes its way across open countryside to the delightful village of St Fagans on the banks of the River Ely. St Fagans is the home of the National History Museum (www.museumwales.ac.uk/en/stfagans). Entry is free and it is open from 10:00am to 5:00pm: there are lots to see and you would need to allocate several hours to explore the full extent of the museum. crops by turning right and skirting the field on the uncultivated path/track left by the farmer).

Maps: OS Explorer 151 Cardiff & Bridgend. Start Point: Radyr Railway Station car park Grid ref: ST135804 Distance: 10km / 6m Time: 3 hrs Facilities: In St Fagans refreshments are available at either The Plymouth Arms or The Old Post Office Tearooms. In addition, The National History Museum has toilets and a café. Difficulty: Moderate but the walk is challenging places in regard to route finding and has numerous stiles to negotiate. In addition care is need on the two lanes that are walked since they are used by motor vehicles and there is no pavement. Finally, be aware of golfers and golf balls when crossing the golf course.

Route: A: With your back to the main entrance to Radyr railway station bear left and take the first right up into Station Road to reach the junction with Heol Isaf. B: Cross over Heol Isaf at the traffic light crossing, and up Windsor Road. Bear left onto a wide tarmac path when the road curves to the right. Just before a cycle barrier on the main path, take a narrow path on your right towards a wooden gate. Go through the gate and along a path which skirts Radyr golf course. The path goes through a wooded area, and reaches a lane (keep the hedge/ trees close on your left at all times). Continue across a lane and onto another section of the golf course towards a stile. (Although the footpath goes directly ahead to trees and then 90o left to a stile in hedge, golfers would appreciate it if you kept to the hedgerow to reach the stile.) C: Cross the stile and aim diagonally right to a further stile in a corner of the field. Cross this stile and cross the road to an opening directly opposite into a field. (Take care crossing this very busy road as you are on a blind bend and there is no pavement). Head for a waymark post directly opposite. (Although the right of way is straight across, the post can be reached without disturbing 30

D: Continue into the next field, and then go diagonally left across the field to reach a stile ‘hidden’ in the hedge opposite. (Again, the right of way takes you across cultivated land but the stile can be reached by turning left and skirting the field.) Cross this stile and descend to reach a track. Turn right and forward on a trackwhich curves left and down to the bottom of the field with a gap into the next field. Continue in a south-westerly direction towards trees opposite and a narrow path which leads to a dismantled railway bridge. (Again the right of way is straight across but the path can be reached by turning left and skirting the field.) E: After passing through a dismantled railway bridge, cross a stile and go forward with a line of trees on your right to reach a stile in fence. Cross this stile and head left in the direction of a transmitter (skirting a natural bowl) to reach a stile in the hedge. Cross this stile (or, if the stile is overgrown with nettles, go through a gap in the hedge to the left of the stile), then continue down keeping close to the hedge on your right to reach a stile and a farm track. Cross the stile and turn right to reach a road. Turn left and follow the road into St Fagans, ignoring any side roads to reach to St Mary’s Church. (Take care: the road can be busy and there is no pavement, although the right hand verge allows walkers to step off the road) F: Retrace your steps a short distance and take a signed footpath on your right where the high wall ends and opposite Chestnut Cottage. Go along the path, crossing a road to reach a lane, (take care with the big step down to the lane.) Turn left along the lane to reach a road and go through the gate opposite onto a path that leads to a stile. Do not cross this stile but turn left and follow a stony path with a low stone wall on your right until you reach a ladder-stile. Go over this and head diagonally left for a stile alongside a gate which gives access to a lane. G: Cross the stile and turn right along a narrow lane with no pavement. In about five minutes you reach a stile on the left in a hedge. Cross this stile and continue with the hedge on your left to another stile in the corner of the field, then bear right to cross another stile. Go downhill with a

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

fence on your right to reach a further stile. Cross this and make towards a bridge over a stream whilst keeping close to a fence on the right (to avoid marshy sections of the field). Go across the bridge and cross a stile in the right-hand corner to reach dismantled railway and a line of pylons. H: Go immediately over a stile opposite (under pylon) to join track. Follow this track (and line of pylons) with a wood on your immediate left. Remain on this track, passing another pylon on your right, and follow it through Maes y Llech farmyard. At a track junction, turn right to reach a stile alongside a gate. Cross this stile and a further stile on other side of the field to reach the A4119. Cross this busy road and turn right along pavement to reach a roundabout. (At Maes y Llech farmyard, if the stile by the gate is overgrown or you are a large group, you can stay on the farm track which joins the A4119 further away; cross the road and turn right along the pavement to rejoin walk). I: At the roundabout cross Heol Isaf and go left and almost immediately turn right onto a clear path between a hedge and a fence. Follow the path to a kissing-gate. Do not go through the kissing-gate, instead turn left. Just after a second kissing-gate the path forks. Take the right-hand path which leads down and across a stream to reach a picnic area. At the information board, go through a kissing gate and left along a path, passing a children’s play area on the right, to reach road with former railway workers’ cottages on your left. Go along the road to a T-junction, and turn left to reach the railway station. n

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

education

The Big Decision: Choosing A-Levels That time is fast approaching for GCSE students to decide what they’ll do next. If your kids are coming to the end of their school career, they’ll need to make some choices about their future, and fast. Follow this comprehensive guide to post-GCSE education, so you can rest easy, knowing exactly what the options are for your children.

-Levels are a very popular post-GCSE choice; particularly as university application rates are soaring. If your child feels that the academic route is the right one to take, you will then need to start thinking about which A-Levels are appropriate.

Why Choose to Study A-Levels? Studying for A-Levels is the only option if your child wants to pursue a degree course afterwards. A large proportion of the university admission process involves A-Level results. Competition is fierce, as the number of applications for places is growing each year. Therefore, you will need to ensure your child is prepared to commit to their chosen courses. Often, high schools have an A-Level department, so it may be a possibility for your child to stay at the same place for the next stage of their education. However, they may prefer a change, to meet new people and gain a little extra independence, in which case a further education college may be a more preferable option. It’s vital to discuss the options thoroughly 32

with your child, to ensure that together you make the right choice. Remember to listen to what they want to do; it’s a time in life when they have to start making their own decisions.

Which Subjects to Choose? By the time it comes to choosing A-Level subjects, you and your child should have an idea about where their strengths and weaknesses lie, and perhaps even what areas they would like to pursue as a career. If this is the case, choosing subjects shouldn’t be too difficult. If your child has an interest in the legal industry, they could choose Law, Politics and English Language, for example. If they want to pursue a career in the media, there are specialist courses for that too, although it is often advisable to choose one or two typically academic subjects, as well. Again, it is very important to sit and discuss these options with your child, and help them to make an informed decision.

Are There Any Alternatives? If your child is interested in a career in something

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

vocational, rather than academic there are specialist courses available, which focus on a particular industry or skills. These are usually taught at further education colleges rather than schools, so make sure you do some research. Vocational courses are available for a variety of subjects, and the qualifications that can be gained are equivalent to A-Levels. Degree course equivalents called Higher National Diplomas are also available if your child then decides to pursue the subject further. When it comes down to the big decision, simply ensure that your child has all of the available information and is aware of all the options before making their final choice. Also, remember that further education qualifications are important even if your child doesn’t necessarily want to go to university. They will be much more likely to find employment with A-Levels or A-Level equivalent qualifications than if they don’t have them. n By Amelia Hanson

education

St David’s College

f you have ever visited Llandudno in North Wales, you may have enjoyed the stunning views passing you by on your journey. But you may never have realised you were passing one of North Wales most vibrant and active independent schools. Hidden among the trees on the edge of Llandudno you will find Gloddaeth Hall home to St David’s College. Now celebrating its 50th year the school is more active then ever before, last year alone the school and its students visited 10 different countries worldwide; expeditions that ranged from Climbing in Sardinia to Surfing in Fuerteventura

and driving Huskies in Iceland. Alongside their annual humanitarian expedition to Uganda for senior students the school became pioneers by taking its entire Year 9 to do similar charity work in some of Romania’s poorest communities. Headmaster Stuart Hay explained, “We may only be a small school but we have big ambitions for the opportunities we offer to students and our 50th year will be even bigger”. Next time you visit Llandudno why not pay a visit to this friendly and lively school noted for its excellent Dyslexia provision and a history of supporting students who need extra support with their learning. n

St John’s College: The Best A Level Record in Wales Over 15 Years

t John’s College is delighted to have achieved the best A level record in Wales over a 15 year period. The College’s most recent Estyn Inspection Report graded the school ‘Excellent’, including the enviable and seldom awarded ‘Excellent’ grade for quality of teaching, stating that ‘The quality of teaching is an exceptional feature of the school’s work’. The school’s strong, close-knit family atmosphere ensures that pupils receive the care necessary to develop their full potential. The girls and boys achieve beyond their predicted grades. The school is also proud of its outstanding musical reputation: a remarkable number of its most successful Maths and Science students proceed to medical school and the most competitive university courses, and are also diploma standard musicians. Estyn Inspectors observed that ‘Throughout the school, there is a very strong sense of purpose, and a collective ownership and

commitment to shared values and aims. The relentless emphasis on high expectations, particularly in the quality of teaching and learning has led to exceptional outcomes for pupils of all abilities’ (Crown Copyright, 2012). As the school with the best A level record in Wales over 15 years, St John’s College has an exceptional reputation for gaining places at Oxford and Cambridge and the leading Russell Group universities. 94.4% of its sixth form pupils gained an A*, A or B grade, and the pass rate was 100%. Of the school’s 100% successful applicants, 90% proceed to top Russell Group Universities. Highest achieving candidate, Morgan Foley, gained 5 A* grades and will read Natural Sciences [Physics] at Trinity College Cambridge. He is also a diploma standard oboist in the school Concert Orchestra. Excellent GCSE results also form the foundation of the school’s outstanding university admissions. n

The Best A Level Record in Wales Over 15 Years

Estyn Inspection Report - ‘Excellent’

including the seldom awarded ‘Excellent’ for Standards of Teaching (2012)

Nursery & Infants

Juniors

Seniors

Sixth Form

Please contact Admissions to arrange a visit:

02920 778 936

www.stjohnscollegecardiff.com

Charity No. 701294

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

education

Malvern St James

alvern St James is a leading Boarding and Day School for girls aged 4-18. In an inspirational setting, girls benefit from first class facilities including an award-winning Maths and Science Centre, Drama Centre and an outstanding Sports Centre. Aspiration and achievement lie at the heart of the School, and girls are encouraged to explore and discover their academic and extracurricular talents. The MSJ Aspiration Programme focuses on preparation for the most competitive UK and international universities and career pathways. MSJ offers full, weekly and flexi (1-3 nights per week) boarding. These options are available to girls from Year 3 onwards. September 2014 sees the launch of MSJ’s brand-new dedicated Sixth Form Centre. At the same time Sixth Form House ‘Poulton’, has been extensively refurbished to make it a truly twenty first century Boarding environment. Sited in

the main School building, the new Sixth Form Centre will be for the exclusive use of Sixth Formers, both Boarders and Day Girls, and will bring together areas for study, socialising and relaxing. The space in MSJ’s iconic Victorian Gothic building has been redesigned and reconfigured to make the most of the inspirational views across the town to the Hills. Fitted with the latest technology and creature comforts, it offers girls an environment which marks a transition in their living and learning environment between School and University. n

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

education

Christ College Brecon Open Day - 4th October 2014

Cardiff - Tina Vincent Tel: 02920 639195 or 07906 760 895 Email: cardiffcyncoed@kumoncentre.co.uk

013/14 was a hugely significant Academic Year in Christ College’s long and distinguished history, with much to celebrate including the opening of a multi-million pound Creative Arts Centre, ‘best ever’ A Level results, and another set of excellent GCSE results. Against this backdrop, the beginning of the 2014/15 Academic Year saw the opening of St Nicholas House, Christ College’s new junior section for boys and girls aged 7 to 11 years, and the school is looking forward to adding to its numbers those looking to benefit from an outstanding Christ College education. Academic results open doors however, and Christ College is committed to helping every individual maximise their achievement in this area. A stunning set of A level (51.1% A*/A) and GCSE results (95% A*-C) at the end of the 2013/14

Academic Year is testimony to this. 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 Combined Cadet Force (CCF) and its pupils’ successes in the sporting, music and creative arts arenas are evidence of this. This has resulted in Estyn, the office of Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education &Training in Wales, to award Christ College the best inspection grades possible – Excellent – in all areas examined under its inspection framework. For more information on Christ College or St Nicholas House, or to register for the Open Day on 4th October, please contact the Admissions Registrar, Mrs Margaret Stephens, on 01874 615440 or admissions@christcollegebrecon. com. n

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

education

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

cardiff past

The History of Cardiff Docks At its peak, Cardiff Docks was one of the largest dock systems in the world with a total quayage of almost 11km. Once the main port for the export of South Wales coal, the Port of Cardiff remains active in the import and export of containers, steel, forest products and dry and liquid bulks.

ollowing the development of the coal found in the Cynon and Rhondda valley's and Merthyr area of South Wales, the export of both coal and iron products required a sea connection to the Bristol Channel if economic volumes of product were to be created. In 1794, the Glamorganshire Canal was completed, linking the then small town of Cardiff with Merthyr, and in 1798 a basin was built, connecting the canal to the sea. By the 1830s, Cardiff became the pre-eminent iron-exporting port, shipping almost half of British overseas iron exports; between 1840 and 1870, the volume of coal exports increased from 44,350 to 2.219 million tonnes.

Bute Docks Increasing agitation for proper dock facilities led Cardiff's foremost landowner, John Crichton-Stuart, 2nd Marquess of Bute, to promote the construction of the (West) Bute Dock, designed by Admiral William Henry Smyth and opened in October 1839. Just two years later, the Taff Vale Railway was opened, following much the same route as the canal. With the construction of the new East Bute Dock from 1855, designed by James Walker of Messrs. Walker & Burges and built by Thomas Cubitt's firm, its opening in 1859 resulted in coal supplanting iron as the industrial foundation of South Wales, with exports reaching 2 million tons as early as 1862.

Queen Alexandra Dock Frustration at the lack of development at Cardiff led to rival docks being opened at Penarth in 1865 and Barry, Wales in 1889. These developments eventually spurred Cardiff into action, with the opening of the Roath Dock in 1887, and the Queen Alexandra Dock in 1907. By then, coal exports from the South Wales Coalfield via Cardiff totalled nearly 9 million tons per annum, much of it exported in the holds of locally-owned tramp

steamers. By 1913, this had risen to 10,700,000 tons, making Cardiff second only to Barry, Wales as the largest coal exporting dock in the world.

Shipping Cardiff's first steamship was the Llandaff of 1865, and by 1910, there were some 250 tramp steamers owned at Cardiff, by prominent firms such as William Cory & Son, Morel, Evan Thomas Radcliffe, Tatem and Reardon-Smith. Each day, the principals of these companies would meet to arrange cargoes of coal for their ships in the opulent Coal Exchange in Mount Stuart Square. This trade reached its pinnacle in 1913, when 10.7 million tons of coal were exported from the port. After the First World War, there was a boom in shipping in Cardiff, with 122 shipping companies in existence in 1920. The boom proved short-lived, however; oil was growing in importance as a maritime fuel, and the terms of the Treaty of Versailles soon flooded Europe with cheap German reparation coal.

The Decline of Cardiff Docks From 1910 onwards capacity issues meant that the more modern and less tidal Barry Docks took over as the largest volume export point of coal. Until the early 1920s, Cardiff docks continued to boom as a location for shipping companies, but the fall in demand for Welsh coal caused a dramatic fall in exports. By 1932, in the depths of the Great Depression which followed the General Strike in 1926, coal exports had fallen to below 5 million tonnes and dozens of locally owned ships were laid-up. Despite intense activity at the port during the Second World War and the attentions of the Nazi German Luftwaffe during the Cardiff Blitz, coal exports continued to decline, finally ceasing in 1964. In 1950, imports outstripped exports for the first time in the port's history. The 1970s saw

a short-term import boom, and in the 1980s the port experienced a slight rise in traffic, while much of the former port area began to be regenerated into non-port uses. The port found a niche as an important local centre for general cargo operations.

The Port of Cardiff Today Cardiff now has three operational docks capable of handling ships of up to 35,000 tons deadweight. The port has transit sheds with 258,500 m2 (2,782,000 sq ft) of storage space, two overland distribution sheds totalling 13,870 m2 (149,300 sq ft), and two timber sheds totalling 13,870 m2 (149,300 sq ft), two specialist steel sheds, with overhead gantry cranes, totalling 15,000 m2 (160,000 sq ft). There are 9 quayside cranes plus a range of mobile cranes. Cardiff's specialised facilities include a distribution terminal and chill and cold storage for perishables. The Cardiff Bay Development Corporation was created in 1987 to counter the effects of economic depression in this run-down area. Today, the port of Cardiff and what is now known as Cardiff Bay has been totally transformed by the Cardiff Barrage that impounds the Rivers Taff and the Ely to create a massive fresh-water lake across to Penarth Head. Only two docks, the Roath and the Queen Alexandra, remain in use, and just two shipping companies remain, albeit buoyant with their worldwide interests. Shipping movements varying from a couple of movements to 10 or 12 per tide, with trade in timber, oil, scrap and containers. n

Cardiff Now â&#x20AC;˘ September 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ www.nowcardiff.co.uk

upload your event for free on www.nowcardiff.co.uk

Friendly Festival Serves up a Feast For All The Family There’s a feast for everyone in store in one of Wales’ liveliest towns on the last weekend of September as the award-winning Narberth Food Festival serves up goodies for all the family.

he event - which has twice scooped Gold for Best Event in the Pembrokeshire Tourism Awards - takes place on September 27th and 28th in and around a massive marquee on Narberth’s Town Moor. Fifty selected food and drink stalls showcase the variety and quality of local and Welsh independent producers, while there are demonstrations by top chefs; Talk and Taste sessions, free activities for kids, lots of feel-good music and walkabout surprises from strolling entertainers. Last year, more than 7,000 people flocked 38

to the festival to enjoy the mix of good food, great talks and tasty entertainment in the Pembrokeshire town which has just been named by the Daily Telegraph as one of Britain’s friendliest places to live. Festival patrons - Wales top television chef, Angela Gray and renowned food writer, Elisabeth Luard - will both be appearing at this year’s event, together with Will Holland from Saundersfoot’s new Coast Restaurant and other culinary maestros. Said Elisabeth: “Narberth Food Festival has got

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

it just right. It’s local, it’s friendly and the food is really good.” So sample it all for yourself! Narberth Food Festival takes place from 10am-4pm on Saturday September 27th and from 10am-4pm on Sunday September 28th. Admission is £3.50 on the Saturday, £2.50 on the Sunday and £5 for a weekend ticket. Under 18s are admitted free. n For more information, visit www.narberthfoodfestival.com or the Narberth Food Festival page on Facebook

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

upload your event for free on www.nowcardiff.co.uk

SEPTEMBER Friday 5th - Sunday 7th Busfest Three Counties Showground Malvern Worcestershire WR13 6NW www.busfest.org Cost: ticket prices vary

Saturday 6th Sunday 7th St Fagans Food Festival St Fagans National History Museum Cardiff CF5 6XB www.museumwales.ac.uk Cost: free

Saturday 6th Sunday 14th h.Art - Herefordshire Art Week Various location throughout Herefordshire www.brightstripe.co.uk/services/ herefordshire-art-week Cost: free

Sunday 7th Knights’ School and Junior Jousting Eastnor Castle Eastnor Ledbury Herefordshire HR8 1RL www.eastnorcastle.com Cost: entry prices vary

Monday 8th The Queen Extravaganza St David’s Hall The Hayes Cardiff CF10 1AH www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk Cost: ticket prices vary

Tuesday 9th Behind the Scenes: Natural Sciences National Museum Cardiff Cathays Park 40

Cardiff CF10 3NP www.museumwales.ac.uk Cost: free

Friday 12th Rhiwbina Farmers’ Market Car park of The Butchers Arms Cardiff CF14 6NB Contact: 029 2019 0036 Cost: free

Tea Dance with Alan Taylor St Donat’s Arts Centre Llantwit Major S Glam CF61 1WF www.stdonats.com Cost: £6.00

Saturday 13th Roath Farmers Market Mackintosh Community Centre Keppoch Street Cardiff CF24 3JW 029 2019 0036 Cost: free

Roald Dahl Day National Waterfront Museum Oystermouth Road Maritime Quarter Swansea SA1 3RD www.museumwales.ac.uk Cost: free

NGS Gardens Open for Charity Day Chapter Market Road Canton Cardiff CF5 1QE www.chapter.org Cost: £2.50

Saturday 13th Sunday 14th Roald Dahl Day celebrations Norwegian Church Arts Centre Harbour Drive Cardiff Bay CF10 4PA www.norwegianchurchcardiff.co.uk

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

Cost: free entry, charges for workshops

Saturday 20th A Night of ELO

Sunday 14th Riverside Market

St David’s Hall The Hayes Cardiff CF10 1AH www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk Cost: ticket prices vary

Fitzhamon Embankment Cardiff CF11 6AN Contact: 029 2019 0036 Cost: free

Toy Collectors Fair Three Counties Showground Malvern Worcester WR13 6NW www.threecounties.co.uk Cost: TBC

Marina Market National Waterfront Museum Oystermouth Road Maritime Quarter Swansea SA1 3RD www.museumwales.ac.uk Cost: free

Tuesday 16th RWCMD String Quartet St Donat’s Arts Centre Llantwit Major S Glam CF61 1WF www.stdonats.com Cost: £6.50

Thursday 18th Friday 19th Haphazard Theatre Company Presents Changing Rooms Gwyn Hall - Neath Orchard Street Neath SA11 1DU Contact: 0300 3656677 Cost: £12

Friday 19th Rhiwbina Farmers’ Market Car park of The Butchers Arms Cardiff CF14 6NB Contact: 029 2019 0036

Roath Farmers Market Mackintosh Community Centre Keppoch Street Cardiff CF24 3JW Contact: 029 2019 0036 Cost: free

Flight Fantastic Techniquest Stuart Street Cardiff CF10 5BW www.techniquest.org Cost: entry prices vary

Beachwatch National Museum Cardiff Cathays Park Cardiff CF10 3NP www.museumwales.ac.uk Cost: free, booking essential

Sunday 21st Flea Fair Three Counties Showground Malvern Worcester WR13 6NW www.threecounties.co.uk Cost: £4.00

Riverside Market Fitzhamon Embankment Cardiff CF11 6AN Contact: 029 2019 0036 Cost: free

Wednesday 24th - Saturday 27th The Good, The Bad & The Welsh New Theatre Park Place Cardiff CF10 3LN www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk Cost: ticket prices vary

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

whats on

upload your event for free on www.nowcardiff.co.uk

Wednesday 24th - Sunday 28th Penallt Art Festival Capel Pentwyn Village Road Penallt Nr Monmouth NP25 4SE www.penallt.org.uk Cost: ticket prices vary

Friday 26th Museum Quiz Night National Waterfront Museum Oystermouth Road Maritime Quarter Swansea SA1 3RD www.museumwales.ac.uk Cost: £3.50 per person

Rhiwbina Farmers’ Market Car park of The Butchers Arms Cardiff CF14 6NB Contact: 029 2019 0036 Cost: free

Friday 26th Sunday 28th Riverdance 20th Anniversary Tour Motorpoint Arena Mary Ann Street Cardiff CF10 2EQ Contact: 029 2022 4488 Cost: ticket prices vary

Elkie Brooks

Saturday 27th Roath Farmers Market

The Blake Theatre Almshouse Street Monmouth NP25 3XP www.theblaketheatre.org Cost: £23.50

Mackintosh Community Centre Keppoch Street Cardiff CF24 3JW Contact: 029 2019 0036 Cost: free

Terrence Higgins Trust Cymru Gala Event

errence Higgins Trust Cymru is inviting supporters to its first ever Gala Event at the Marriott Hotel in Cardiff on Friday 24th October. The glamourous event will raise money for the HIV and sexual health charity, which has been providing services in Cardiff for 22 years. For £40 per ticket, guests will be treated to a three-course dinner, before enjoying music from entertainer Aubrey Parsons. The evening will also include a drinks reception, a World AIDS day raffle with the chance to win an array of prizes, and an auction where guests can bid on exclusive items. The event has already gained support from local businesses from across Wales including Victoria Park Mazda, WOW bar, Pulse bar and 42

nightclub, and Porters Bar. “We are delighted to be holding our first ever Gala Event”, said Steve Jones, National Director for Terrence Higgins Trust Cymru. “We want to give our guests a fun experience as well as raise funds and awareness of Terrence Higgins Trust. We have been providing services in Cardiff for 22 years, so this is a great opportunity to highlight the work that we do locally. There are still tickets available, so get in touch if you want to help us support people affected by and living with HIV across Wales.” For more information about the Gala Event, or to buy a ticket, please contact Terrence Higgins Trust in Cardiff on 02920 666 465 or email Wayne Curley at wayne.curley@tht. org.uk. n

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk

Saturday 27th Sunday 28th Cardiff Country Fair Cardiff Castle Castle Street Cardiff CF10 3RB www.cardiffcastle.com Cost: ticket prices vary

Sunday 28th Falconry Eastnor Castle Eastnor Ledbury Herefordshire HR8 1RL www.eastnorcastle.com Cost: entry prices vary

Riverside Market Fitzhamon Embankment Cardiff CF11 6AN Contact: 029 2019 0036 Cost: free

Monday 29th Behind the Scenes Cardiff Castle Castle Street Cardiff CF10 3RB www.cardiffcastle.com Cost: £12.50

Monday 29th Tuesday 30th Lee Mack St David’s Hall The Hayes Cardiff CF10 1AH www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

Tuesday 30th September - Saturday 4th October Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap New Theatre Park Place Cardiff CF10 3LN www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

Cardiff Now • September 2014 • www.nowcardiff.co.uk