RHIWBINA Living At the heart of the community
Business in Rhiwbina
Meet the people who are the heartbeat of the community
FR EE
Issue 15 Summer ‘11
Welcome
Welcome Croeso 3-5
News
Welcome to your summer issue of Rhiwbina Living - the official magazine of the 6, 7 Letters village. Letters to the Editors
10
Interview Pop princess Gwenno Saunders
13
Graffiti Rhiwbina How a local church made headlines
15
Squidgy’s Page Squidgy gets excited about the Summer Festival
16
Summer Festival Programme of Events
19
Business in Focus Serenade Gift Shop
20
New Faces Meet the new businesses in the village
24
RSPCA News The good work of the RSPCA
25
Pets’ Page Your questions answered
27
Photo Album Pen-y-Dre
29
Readers’ Survey Win M&S vouchers!
Summer is finally here, and once again, we are delighted to be playing our part in the popular Rhiwbina Summer Festival. Saturday 2nd July is the date for your diary but there will be plenty to do throughout the preceding week. You’ll find a full Programme of Events in the centre pages of this issue. We’ve spoken to plenty of local ‘celebs’ over the years, and a lot of those have been sportspeople of one sort or kind. We were therefore delighted to speak to pop headliner Gwenno Saunders. As one half of The Pipettes, Gwenno gets to see a lot of the world. Indeed, her career has already take her to Las Vegas at the age of just 17. Gwenno recounts her memories of North Cardiff, and also tells us about her flourishing musical life. We’ve also pledged to do more for local business. So this issue, we’ve started up some new features to help promote local trade. You can read about some of new faces in the village on page 20, and also some of the ones you might recognise on page 19. We caught up with the local branch of the RSPCA in Whitchurch, who look after lots of animals, but without the support of handouts. There are a few little moggies who are looking for new homes and if you’re thinking of adding a pet to your household, page 24 is the first place to look. Chris Troughton answers all your pet-related questions on page 25, and our Photo Album this issue focuses on Pen-y-Dre. This long street forms the backbone of the historical Garden Village. The album is on page 27. Your crossword is on page 30, and we’ve even had room to let our editor Patric have a good moan on page 31. You can have your own moan too - we’ve put together a Readers’ Survey of our magazines to see how we can improve! Please remember to support our advertisers, without whom, your free issue of Living Magazines would not be possible. And feel free to pop down to our stand at the Summer Festival and say hello! Have a great summer and see you in September! Editors
Rhiwbina Living & Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Editors/Advertising: Patric Morgan & Danielle Dummett Address: 222 Pantbach Road, Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 6AG Tel: 07772 081775 and 07974 022920 Email: editor@livingmags.co.uk Web: www.livingmags.co.uk Rhiwbina Living Page 2
Patric and Danielle
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors or omissions, or for any matter in any way arising from the publication of this material. Every effort has been made to contact any copyright holders. Rhiwbina Living is an independent, apolitical publication.
Advertising booking and copy deadline for Issue 16 Friday 19 August 2011. Issue 16 publication date - mid September 2011 Rhiwbina Living is published 4 times a year.
JULIE TAKES SEAT IN SENEDD
CREATIVE WRITING CLASSES
After losing her seat in Parliament in the General Election last year, Julie Morgan has now taken her place in the Senedd as an Assembly Member. Julie took the seat from the Conservative's Jonathan Morgan by 1,782 votes in April’s Assembly Elections. This represented a 5.18% majority. The win came by way of a 9.77% swing from the Conservatives and the highest vote of any candidate in Wales. Julie is the wife of former First Minister, Rhodri Morgan.
Rhiwbina Library is hoping to start a creative writing course within the next few months, and is calling on residents to come along and have a go. The course would be tutor lead and a fee would be payable. It would be held on Thursday afternoons. If you are interested please contact Gayle Osborne at Rhiwbina Library on 2069 3276. You can also email Gayle at: gosborne@cardiff.gov.uk. Gayle told Living Magazines: “If you are interested in creative writing, then give us a call and we’ll give you the details.”
RHIWBINA GARDENS OPEN TO RAISE MONEY FOR GOOD CAUSES Four gardens in Rhiwbina are opening to the public for the National Garden Scheme on Sunday 18th July. They are 89 Pen-y-Dre (Cardiff in Bloom prize winner 2010), 7 Pen-y-Dre, 42 Lon Isa and 14 Lon Ysgubor. 89 Pen y Dre is a small but very interesting garden with palms, tree ferns, perennials and a conservatory with cacti and
succulents, plus a pond with kois. Barcies Garden at Lon Ysgubor is a terraced town garden with shrubs, hardy perennials and a recently installed pond. The gardens are open on Sunday 3rd July from 11am- 6pm. Tickets to see all four gardens are just £5. Refreshments and
plants for sale will also be available to purchase.
NEWS THIRD LIVING MAGAZINE LAUNCHED
Residents of Danescourt received their first copies of Danescourt Living in early April as we launched our third title in our series. Co-editor Patric Morgan said: “We’re always looking to get our magazines into more people’s hands. I actually started my publishing career when I was editor of the Danescourt News from 2004 to 2006. When we learnt that the Danescourt News had moved to the web, we felt it appropriate that we should continue to provide the residents there with their own magazine.” Feedback on the launch issue was glowing, with residents being able to take advantage of its A5 size when commuting. “It’s perfect for popping into my handbag and reading on the bus on the way into work.” said one resident. The magazine is distributed free to 1,500 homes and businesses on the estate four times a year. Rhiwbina Living Page 3
NEWS TRIBUTES FOR FORMER RHIWBINA POLITICIAN Tributes poured in last April when former local politician Peter Owen passed away after an illness. Mr Owen, who was 83, was the Labour Party councillor for Rhiwbina from 1995-1999, following his retirement from teaching. He was described as a ‘once-ina-generation’ politician who looked after the needs of Cardiff’s younger inhabitants. The ward’s current incumbent, Jayne Cowan, described her predecessor as a very kind and gentle man who always put others first.
SERENADE NOMINATED FOR NATIONAL AWARDS Rhiwbina’s Serenade Cards and Gifts Shop has been nominated for a national award for a second consecutive year. The Retas Greetings Cards Awards are recognised as the ‘Oscars’ of the card industry. Serenade was nominated by local customers, and the shop’s owners will be attending a glittering ceremony in London’s Dorchester Hotel in July to see if they can beat off competition from all around the UK. In our last issue, we incorrectly credited a photo of the Monico cinema. We’d like to apologise, and to correctly credit the photo to Dave Salter. Rhiwbina Living Page 4
ALL ABOARD FOR THE RHIWBINA SUMMER FESTIVAL!
This year’s popular Summer Festival weeks kicks off this month, with the Festival Day itself taking place on Saturday 2nd July. Last year’s event was a resounding success and organisers, Rhiwbina Events Committee, are hoping that the sun comes out again for a repeat performance. Rhiwbina Living’s very own Squidgy Squirrel will once again be leading the popular Treasure
Hunt, and there will also be plenty of things to do and see for all the family. On the main stage, performers will be providing entertainment throughout the day and you can see a full schedule of events at www.rhiwbina.co.uk. There is also a Programme of Events in our centre pages of this issue, which covers the entire Festival Week. We hope to see you down in the village on July 2nd!
YOUTH ANNOYANCE BEING TARGETED BY LOCAL POLICE With summer evenings drawing people outdoors, local police are keeping a close eye on local youths who have been reported drinking alcohol in Rhiwbina’s parks. The move follows a PACT meeting at All Saints Church in May. Police have since been patrolling Caedelyn Park, Hill Snook Park, Llanishen Fach Park and Parc-y-Pentre. A small number of youths were caught drinking and they were dealt with appropriately. A number of patrols have also been made in the Wenallt’s
car parks, following concerns at a PACT meeting last autumn. Patrols have recently confiscated a quantity of alcohol belonging to those considered to be contributing to inappropriate vehicle use. The date of the next PACT meeting is Monday 27th June at All Saints Church, Heol-y-Felin, starting at 7pm. The meeting is an opportunity for residents to go along and contribute to local policing issues. Local officers and councillors will also be in attendance to help solve local concerns.
RUGBY PASSES THROUGH THREE GENERATIONS FOR RHIWBINA FAMILY A Rhiwbina family has recently gone ‘full circle’ at Rhiwbina Rugby Club. Resident John Neale will be seeing his grandson joining the club, many years after he himself joined the club in the 1970s. “My wife and I have lived in Rhiwbina for approximately 30 years firstly in Pen–y–Dre and since in Min–y–Nant. “Over the years as my children were growing up I have been involved in various activities and clubs with the children of Rhiwbina and neighbouring areas. I have three, now grown up boys, the two elder married each with two children, their ages ranging from 28 to 33.” said Mr Neale. “My eldest lad Gerwyn was one of the first group of lads ever to play mini rugby for the club, my youngest lad Huw followed his older brother through the club a few years later. “Believe it or not they are both still playing for Rhiwbina Rugby Club at senior level, Gerwyn, over 22 years later (both are lucky enough to be living locally in Rhiwbina). “My grandson is now coming up to the age where in the next year he will probably join the youngest section of the club and so my son and grandson have just completed a full circle. “Having been involved, run and helped in children’s and youth’s activities I know what a help it is to their development.”
NEWS OLIVE CELEBRATES HER CENTENARY BIRTHDAY IN RHIWBINA Rhiwbina resident Olive Carter recently her 100th birthday. Her fantastic achievement was marked with a surprise lunch party at Ye Olde Butchers Arms. Relatives from all over the world made the journey to Rhiwbina, where Olive was treated to a meal, birthday cake and champagne. Olive and her family celebrated in style in April at the Old Butchers Arms. Friends and family gathered to eat. There was also a special pictorial collage of Olive through the years on display, which brought back a lot of memories for the centenarian.
Olive was born in Essex in 1911. That was the year that George V was crowned at Westminster Abbey, and it was also the year that RMS Titanic was launched. Olive got married just after the war and moved to Wales in 1940. Because of the war, civil service offices were evacuated to North Wales, but Olive finally settled in South Wales in 1950. It was Penarth where Olive first made her home, then Llanishen but has been in Rhiwbina since 1968. Olive received many congratulations on her big day, including a visit from the Lord Mayor of Cardiff, and she even got a special Olive opens her card from the Queen birthday card from the Queen.
Rhiwbina Living Page 5
Living Magazines making the world a smaller place Dear Editors The world is getting smaller and smaller. I think at the last count there were about eight people who have been in touch because of your magazine! Here’s the list so far: 1. One in Normandy 2. One in Greece 3. One in New South Wales 4. Two in Llandaff North 5. Two from Melbourne originally from Llandaff North 6. And now an old schoolmate. I also recently bumped into a couple whose parents were originally from Rhiwbina - the father, although some years younger than me (60ish) was also a compositor back in Cardiff. They had friends visiting who were also from Rhiwbina to this pimple of a town on the back end of the world called Albany, Western Australia - and they brought over a copy of the Whitchurch and Llandaff Magazine to show them. Hoping to catch up with them so that I can see the magazine! Your publication is now resting 12,000 miles away from its source! How about that? Bet you wouldn't have thought that two or three years ago! Tony George Albany Wester n Australia
Rhiwbina Living Page 6
LETTERS Whitchurch, Llandaff North and RhiwbinaI’ve lived in all three and loved them all!
Melingriffith Boys History
Dear Editors Having read your article on Melingriffith Boys (Rhiwbina Living Issue 14),I would like if I may, to correct a few of the statements made. The Bailiff of Forest Farm from the early 1920s to the late 1930s was my grandfather, Mr Samual Troake, not Troakes, as stated in your article. My father, Mr Danny Mead married Sophia Troake of Forest Farm in 1928 and the wedding reception was held at the farm itself. My mother’s sister, Florence, married Mr Ivor Harris, who also worked on the farm. They lived in one of the farm cottages which has since been demolished. Joffre Troake, my uncle, ran his milk business from the farm until moving to his dairy at Llandaff City. He was a well known milkman around both Llandaff and Whitchurch until the late 1950s. Jim Troake, his brother, became the Bailiff of the Whitchurch Hospital Farm, “Llwyn Malt” at Tongwynlais. Another brother, Sam, drove the overhead gantry crane in the Melingriffith Tinplate Works. I was born in Tymawr Road Llandaff North and went to Hawthorn Road School as a child where I made so many friends that I still have today.
Ken Hopkins was born at Forest Farm in 1930
One morning, I was watching lime into it, and the milking and then move stood too near the shed over the the cow’s tail. Phil hole. Inside lifted the tail the shed, Dad and I was at once built a long covered wooden seat with from head to toe My early memories a hole cut in brown as a four out in the midd watery mess. I year old are of le. That was our looked like a our two toilet. After a mon gingerbread man terraced cottages. th or so, he ! They had, would move it alon Phil carried me from memory, three g and dig back to my bedrooms, moth another hole. one living room er, who stripped and a rear my With no running clothes off and scullery which washed the water to would now be bathe, we had muck off me unde called a kitchenet a long r the te. We had galvanised tin bath communal cold no bathroom, no water pump. which my running water parents would Luckily, the sum and no electricity fill with buckets mers were . We relied on of water heated warmer in thos paraffin lamps up on the e days. for light. open coal or wood On another occa Outside, there fires. was a sion, Phil My father was went on his hors communal hand good with his e and cart, to water-pump hands. He built collect some hay which was shar us goalposts ed by from the with nets for us barn. As he forke families – the Hopk three to play football d the hay ins, the and made a swin onto the cart, he Richards next door g with rope disturbed a , and the and a wooden courting couple. Youngs who were swing seat, The girl the farmers. swinging from the screamed, they In my family were both jumped branch of a my mum, tree. The Youngs down and ran off my dad Ned, and had a laughing. my two elder billiards or snoo Phil chased them brothers – Ron ker table in the who was ten and warned upstairs of their them not to tresp years older and barn! ass on the Bill my senior In 1935, we mov farm again. In my by eight years. ed to No.4, There was innocence, I Heol Booker, and wondered what another brother, it was all the cottages Tedd were demolished. about. died aged ten while y, who We thought that our new coun Our outside toilet undergoing surg cil house ery at Cardiff , which was was at Royal Infirmary. the very end of quite posh. We the garden had a toilet, a bathroom was a sort of mob Phil Young work with hot and ile shed. It ed on my cold had four wheels father’s farm. They running water, and four a gas told me cooker, electric handles, like a that, as a nose lighting and a rickshaw. My y youngster, I wireless with a father would dig would follow him battery that a large hole in everywhere. had to be charged. the garden, throw a bag of
In 1939 we moved to Pantmawr Road, Whitchurch where I spent my teenage years until I married. We then moved to Cambourne Avenue, Whitchurch. After my demob from the forces, we later moved to our present address here in Rhiwbina. You could say that I more than qualify for Whitchurch, Llandaff and Rhiwbina Living! Brian Mead Heol Mabon Rhiwbina Cardiff
Whitchurch and
Llandaff Living Page
12
Dear Editors I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your publication. I am always keen to pick up a copy and it seems that others are too as your magazines fly off your stands. We have so much history and heritage in our area, and it is great to see this being celebrated instead of cast to the annals of ‘Forgottensville’. Keep up the good work and thank you for all your hard work. M Buckley Email, Llandaff North
LETTERS
Living Magazines on the World Wide Web! Dear Editors I lived in Llandaff North since I was born in 1949. I moved out in 1972 when I got married and have lived in Caerphilly ever since. My cousin in Llantwit Major has just brought your publication to my notice and I find it very interesting. I am however, unable to open the latest edition on my computer for some unknown reason. I would also like to view any of the previous editions that you have available. If I am able to subscribe to future issues can you tell me what I need to do. Wayne Abrahams Caerphilly
Thank You Readers! Dear Editors On behalf of the Rotary Club of Cardiff, may I thank all those readers of your magazine, who donated old garden tools for the Tools For Self Reliance project. The tools are currently being repaired or refurbished in workshops in Crickhowell. Once they are finished, they’ll be sent out to Tanzania and other African countries. If any other readers have any old or broken tools please contact Dafydd Thomas on Cardiff 20614242 or e-mail dafyddthomas1@googlemail. com. Dafydd Thomas (on behalf of the Rotar y Club of Cardiff)
Dear Editors. My cousin has sent me two recent numbers of your magazine, which I thoroughly enjoyed reading. The last number covered some memories of Forest Farm where my grand father Sam Troake had been manager (not Jeff Troakes as in the magazine). My father was called Joff Troake and was raised on the farm. I would appreciate receiving the magazine directly. Is this possible? Regards Robert Troake Cleeve, Slapton Kingsbridge Devon TQ7 2PT
Editors’ Response We have a limited amount of back copies available for past issues. We try to get as many magazines into the hands of readers as possible. However, if there is a specific issue that you require, please contact us to see if we have a copy. If you’d like to receive future issues of any of our magazines, you can send us a cheque for £5 (to cover UK postage costs) and we’ll send you out a copy as soon as we get our copies back from the printers. Cheques need to be made payable to either of the editors, and posted to our address on the inside front cover of the magazine.
Bin the Bags! Dear Editors I am writing to you as I am becoming increasingly annoyed by the amount of charity bags that are being delivered to my address. Whilst I understand the need to raise money for charity (I regularly donate to local charities), I am sure that other residents will know what I am talking about. I am concerned, not only about the number of charity bags that are being distributed, but the way in which they are being ‘delivered’. The people who they entrust to deliver these bags are becoming more and more lazy. On my walks around our
villages, I am seeing bags being left at the end of drives, sometimes even stuck in gates. I took a photo of one which was left on the steps to some flats. Clearly if an elderly person were to descend these stairs on a rainy day, they may not see the glossy bag and they could easily fall. I’m hoping that this practice can be changed before there is an injury to one of us. Mrs H Evans Email Rhiwbina Living Page 7
greenmoor nurseries
Accurate Aerials
suppliers of top quality plants throughout the year
South Wales’s largest grower and supplier of home-grown plants for your garden. We have a large range of 3 vegetable plants and flower bags of plants. We also stock loose compost seeds, award-winning for £ 10 hanging baskets, a full range of composts, greenhouse glass and perspex, perennials, shrubs, fruit tress and much much more.Visit our website for more details or call. Bring your children to see our army tanks!
Improving reception since 1979. Call your local licensed installer...
Freev ew ID No. 18266724
Mark Jones 07836 265259
www.greenmoornurseries.co.uk Greenmoor Nurseries St. Brides, Wentloog Newport NP10 8SQ TEL: 01633 680572
18 Twyn Y Fedwen Road - CF14 1HU
www.accurateaerials.com
! " " # " $ # % & " # $ # % # ' #! ( % &
) *+,+* -.+/.0 ) *+,+* -1+..2 () *+,+* -1+.32 4445 0%5# 5%!
3, 6 7 & # " 88 30 1
! " !
# $ %&'()* + +
, - . ! . &/ (
Are you looking for high returns from your Investment? How about capital growth of
92.00% over the last 29 months* OR 38.86% over the last 24 months* OR 16.80% over the last 14 months* OR Income of
25.32% income over the last 19 months* (with the potential of capital growth)
(* after all charges – rounded up to whole month period to 01.04.2011)
You too can achieve similar income and growth Contact:
Balu Bhayani Cert PFS Telephone: 029 2038 3858 Email: Balu@scorpiofs.com www.scorpiofs.com
Independent Financial Adviser Authorised and Regulated by The Financial Services Authority Wealth Warning: Past performance is not necessarily a guide to future returns.
Valid until 31st July 2011 Terms and Conditions apply
Valid until 31st July 2011 Valid Validuntil until31st 31stJuly July2011 2011 Terms and Conditions apply Termsand andConditions Conditionsapply apply Terms
g n i l l u P s e p a h S o n n e w G r e n li d a e h Pop h is it r B s t n o r f s r e d Saun ettes. girl group The Pip ntaf la G r e m r o f e h t t e Y tten o g r o f ’t n s a h il p u p ots. o r f if d r a C h t r o N her t’s certainly been a unique and creative career so far for Welsh pop musician Gwenno Saunders. A lead dancer in Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance at the age of 17, a role in Pobol y Cwm, her own show on S4C and currently one half of The Pipettes, Gwenno has become one of Cardiff’s most talented exports. Yet, her formative years were right here in North Cardiff. Gwenno attended Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Glantaf in Llandaff North, which to date, has provided the world with a glut of respected and well-known celebrities. “North Cardiff is a little outside the city so it was quieter there than other parts of Cardiff. My favourite memories of the school are probably from break times - corner shops and hanging out at the sandpit at the end of the playing field. As it was the only first language Welsh school in Cardiff at the time it meant that
I
Rhiwbina Living Page 10
anyone who'd gone to a Welsh speaking primary school ended up there which made it incredibly diverse. There's also the fact that there seemed to be an influx of Welsh speakers who had moved from other areas of Wales for work, in the media or otherwise. It meant that a lot of pupils could take advantage of the fact they spoke good Welsh for work in TV and music. I think that’s why it’s produced so many talented and well-known personalities.” Gwenno’s musical roots however, go back even further. Her father, Tim Saunders is the noted Cornish poet and linguist. “My parents have had a huge influence on me with regards to music and the arts in general. My mum was a founding member of Cor Cochion Caerdydd, a socialist street choir who sing every Saturday in town. She still sings with them to this
day. We always sang with her when we were young and went on antiapartheid marches and miner's pickets most weekends. My dad on the other hand always wrote poems and stories for us in Cornish when we were growing up. I can't count the amount of hours that he, Ani (my sister) and I made up really silly songs about traffic lights, toys and food!” Gwenno’s appetite for music at a young age led her to Las Vegas when she became a cast member of Lord of the Dance at the age of just 17.
“
My favourite m school are probab emories of the times - corner shoply from break out at the sandpit s and hanging the playing field at the end of
Photograph courtesy of Robert Attard
“Ani and I always did Irish dancing. I wasn't hugely interested in school at the time (being a typically rebellious teenage girl) and a chance to audition came up in Dublin. I went to Coleg Glan Hafren for two weeks and then I got the call to join and tour the world. Don't get me wrong, I worked hard at it but it really was a wonderful opportunity, especially as Irish dancing had really been an underground thing up until that point. I had never imagined earning a living from it. “I missed Wales a lot though. I missed its sense of history. Las Vegas has always demolished its own history which has been a shame I think. It really was just the complete opposite of what I'd known. It really is only one city in the US though, and I'm glad I experienced it. But three days in Vegas is enough, let alone two years!” Lord of the Dance provided Gwenno with a big break, but ultimately, it gagged her creative streak. During her two years in Las Vegas, Gwenno’s yearning to create her own music brought about a new way of expressing herself - and also brought her back home to Cardiff. “I left Lord Of The Dance when I was 19. I'd been thinking a lot about wanting to make music, encouraged by my dancing experiences and was looking for new ways of creative expression. I'd always absolutely adored music and singing, enjoyed playing the piano and violin as well as making up songs, so I moved back to Wales. I released a few EPs on Crai Records which is a part of Sain, and in that process I met people who knew the British pop girl group, The Pipettes. I went to see them play and purely by chance, they were looking for a singer. “I was touring with Riverdance at the time and wasn't sure which direction I should take with my music but the band were perfect Photograph courtesy of Jonathan Luna
they made pop music as it should be. I joined them in April 2005. Ani, my sister then joined in 2008. Their singles Pull Shapes, released in 2006, and Your Kisses are Wasted On Me, released in 2007, both did well in the UK, US and Asian singles charts. “We’ve toured the world over the past six years, played some amazing shows and just recently released our second album Earth VS The Pipettes. Who knows which direction the band will take next? I've always followed my nose when it comes to these things so I'm sure it'll become clear soon.” Gwenno’s strong Celtic roots have given her a sense of free spirit. It’s also given her a passionate view of her own country that highlights a great lack of appreciation of life as society tumbles through the great technological revolution. “I've been incredibly lucky to speak both Cornish and Welsh fluently. As well as doing the Irish dancing, I’ve developed an understanding of Irish history and music. These languages and cultures are so important to our sense of who we are and what makes us different. It's part of the fabric of the British Isles and one that is important to celebrate and to keep alive.
Interview “Society tries to evolve and move forward at an alarming rate and people's obsession with the idea of the future has almost become null and void with the information revolution. We've destroyed our planet and lost meaning and reason for our existence; it's worth remembering our forefathers, that connection with the earth, where we've come from, and with our own imaginations.” Gwenno’s been looking to use these thoughts and her experiences in her latest project. “I'm writing a solo album at the moment. It's just at the demo stage but I'm trying to pull all of my influences together- old worlds and new, into a coherent pop record. My aim is to keep on making music, keep on performing and creating.” But the capital city of Wales has not left the woman who has never forgotten her North Cardiff roots. “I don't get back often enough. I love Cardiff.” To hear Gwenno’s music, visit www.myspace.com/gwenno
Rhiwbina Living Page 11
Is Your Driveway or Patio an Eyesore?
Is it covered in dirt, grime, moss, algae, grass or weeds? Is it time for a professional clean?
We clean any hard landscpaed surface to return it to its former glory. We use state-of-the-art specialist cleaning machinery that keeps the mess on the floor and not all over your home!
Call Derek on 029 2081 0501 for a free, friendly quotation.
' #2$ + !( %%0 $!3 4 # 2 # 5 3 #
6 #$ 7$ 8 ) % 44 # %& ! # + 4 & $ $ ! + #2$ 4 # /0 $ * $ *$2$*0 ,
! ! " #$% & # ' # ( ) % # ! ( *#$*+ ' # ( ) % % $ # (,- % . / -, ,01 ! ( *#$*+ % $ ! ( , *#$*+ . / -, ,01
All in the name of Easter
In the build up to Easter this year Beulah Church took paint to wall to display a series of images of Jesus. It was the culmination of their ‘Out of the Frame’ Artist in Residency with local artist Jo Jones. The idea was to take Jesus out of the frame, to release him from the confines of church and clergy and let something of his life be remembered and told. It began at Christmas with the Victorian Evening and a series of installations telling the birth story of Jesus. But, the church thought it unlikely that an exhibition about the life of Jesus would be much of a draw if we held it in church. Thus a small group of people worked with Jo and hatched the idea of a series of graffiti images that would come and go in the weeks leading up to Easter. We worked with another artist, Bleddyn Edwards of Cheeky Monkey Creatives, to create a series of life-sized stencils. Normally graffiti is something people moan about, but these graffiti images seemed to stir something of the opposite reaction. They prompted a great deal of interest and conversation, some criticism and concern. Many hoped they would stay, particularly the first image, the bit of Rio that came to Rhiwbina, with the Christ Redeemer figure at the crossroads. The images played
on a residual sense in people that if you see a slim, bearded, barefooted man – it must be Jesus. Having established the face the following images began to offer particular moments in the life of Jesus, some comforting, some puzzling, some challenging. The last image appeared not on the walls of Canolfan but on specially commissioned wine for sale for Easter. The idea was to set Jesus free from church, leave him to the streets and neighbours of Rhiwbina and then let him travel into people’s homes as they celebrated Easter together. The last image would then be complete when the bottle was emptied and the Easter message of resurrection became plain. Rev Dr Peter Cruchley-Jones, Beulah’s minister, told Living Magazines: “Graffiti Jesus blended art and spirituality in a new way, told
Jesus’ life in an intriguing and subversive way. We miss him now he’s gone, but the experience of him on our streets spoke to us very deeply of how he belongs to so many more than just those who come to church.” The Graffiti Jesus images are available as a postcard set, for sale in Beulah’s Whittaker Lounge, Serenade and Snails. They have also been marked by a poem, written by John Rhys.
Rhiwbina Living Page 13
or Daddy, or Grandma, or someone else special! Lively music sessions for babies and pre-school children (0-3 years)
Classes held in Rhiwbina and Canton For a Free Taster Session call Rachel: 07747 868682 Email: jollybabiesrachel@hotmail.co.uk www.musicwithmummysouthwales.co.uk
bmx/ mountain road / hybrid INFO@MUDDYBUMBIKES.COM 5A Beulah Road, Rhiwbina CF14 6LT 02920 626169
new nt! r e de Un agem n ma &RPSXWHU 6HUYLFHV IURP
3HQJXLQ ,QWHUQHW /WG Made to measure curtains, curtain poles & tracks, roman blinds, wooden/venetian/roller blinds, re-upholstery, furniture, mirrors, carpets, lighting, wallpaper & paint. Stockists of major brands Harlequin, Romo, Villa Nova, Sanderson, Kai, Linwood, Wind, Jab, Wemyss & more.
)RU DOO RI \RXU 3& UHTXLUHPHQWV 2IIHULQJ D ZKROH UDQJH RI FRPSXWHU VHUYLFHV DW \RXU KRPH RU LQ RXU IXOO\ HTXLSSHG ZRUNVKRS )DVW IULHQGO\ ORFDO VXSSRUW IURP D FRPSDQ\ \RX FDQ UHO\ XSRQ
x 1HZ FRPSXWHUV x /DSWRSV DQG 1HWERRNV x 5HSDLUV DQG XSJUDGHV x &RPSXWHU 6HUYLFLQJ x 7XWRULDO VHUYLFHV x 0DLQWHQDQFH x 1HWZRUNLQJ 1R FDOO RXW RU HVWLPDWH FKDUJHV
Visit our showroom at: 2 Kelston Road, Whitchurch, Cardi. CF14 2AJ 02920 614966 Info@curtain-raisers.co.uk www.curtain-raisers.co.uk
x :HE +RVWLQJ IURP RQO\ Â… x 'RPDLQ QDPHV IURP Â… x :HEVLWH GHVLJQ VHUYLFHV
&DOO XV IRU IXUWKHU GHWDLOV 9LVLW RXU ZHEVLWH
KWWS ZZZ SHQJXLQ-XN FRP
2U FDOO LQ WR RXU RIILFH DW
)LUVW )ORRU 1RUWK 5G &DUGLII &) %1
! #
ello again! It’s Squidgy Squirrel and I’m here to tell you all about this year’s Rhiwbina Summer Festival. There is plenty to do this year, and events start on Saturday 25th June, with the Friends of Rhiwbina Primary School Fete, starting at 2pm. During the week, you can enjoy a ‘Storytime’ with a professional storyteller at the Library on the 29th June at 2.15pm. There will be a colouring competition during the week. You can collect your colouring sheets from the lovely people in Serenade card shop, but remember that all entries need to be handed in at the Library by Saturday 25th June. Don’t forget that you can meet me at New Roots Garden Centre on Saturday
H
2nd July, where I will be handing out Treasure Hunt maps for you. This costs just £1, and this will go towards the Christmas Tree Appeal for our tree later in the year. All you need to do is head around the village, spotting the pictures of me (the one at the bottom of this page!) and write them down on your map. Once you’ve found all my pictures, you can hand your map back to me at the Garden Centre, where we will pick a winner. We had great fun with this last year. I was so busy handing out Treasure Hunts maps, that I hardly had time to hand out balloons! We met lots of lovely people and I even made a new friend called Atticus. Here he is, giving me a kiss.
" !
"
# !
2
For the grown-ups, they’ll be busy nd spending all their money at the craft stalls and street traders. On the stage, there will be lots of performances too. Local schools, youth and community groups will showing off their dancing and music skills. If you’d like to see the full running order of the acts that are due to appear on stage, you can visit www.rhiwbina.co.uk. The event is once again being organised by the Rhiwbina Events Committee, which also looks after the fun at the Christmas Victorian Evening. Have lots of fun and see you there!
Squidgy
Face-painting and icecreams will also be the order of the day too. We saw lots of different pretty faces last year - some were quite scary!
Rhiwbina Living Page 15
Rhiwbina Village Events Committee, The Wendy House, 1 Lon Fach, Rhiwbina, Cardiff, CF14 6JP Tel: 07970 165 084
www.rhiwbina.co.uk There are a number of other exciting events taking place in the Village in the run up to Festival Day with something for everyone
Festival Week
(Please note, ticket purchases at Serenade by cash and cheque payments only)
Saturday 25th June Free entry by ticket only to Jayne, Adrian and Brian’s Coffee Morning All Saints Church Hall, from 10.30am - 12.00pm, raffle in aid of the Cardiff Branch of the Alzheimer’s Society. To book tickets please contact Adrian on Saturday 25th June 029 2062 7757 or arobson@cardiff.gov.uk The Pantmawr Inn BBQ and Bouncy Castle
extravaganza, burgers and hotdogs £2.50 Saturday 25th June free entry from 2.00pm The Friends of Rhiwbina Primary School Summer Fete from 2.00pm - 5.00pm, with activities for all ages, a variety of stalls, inflatables, showcase arena, football knock-out competition, Saturday 25th June crazy golf, BBQ, refreshment tent and more, One of Wales’ foremost musicians, Harpist Catrin Finch held at school, £1.00 entry per adult, children free in Concert at Canolfan Beulah, 7.30pm, tickets £12.00 or £10.00 to unwaged adults, Monday 27th June £5.00 children, tickets available from Serenade Quiz ‘n Chips at Rhiwbina Recreational Club, 7.30pm for an 8.00pm start, tickets £3.00 for entry and chips, Tuesday 28th June available from the Rec, Serenade and on the door, raffle prizes, Festival Rhymetime with with proceeds to the Christmas Tree Appeal 2011. Bookstart Bear at the Library, free entry from 10.30am - 11.15am Tuesday 28th June Elvis at the Juboraj Wednesday 29th June Tickets £20.00 available from the venue Festival Storytime with professional story teller Claire Erasmus, free entry at the Library Wednesday 29th June from 2.15pm - 3.00pm The Annual Festival Village Walk, organised by the Rhiwbina Civic Society and led by Duncan Hockridge, free for all, dogs welcome, please meet at the Deri Inn car park at 6.45pm, the walk will be approx. 21/2 mile long along some of the interesting public footpaths around the Wenallt area lasting 90mins. Please bring suitable clothing and footwear - wet or fine the event will take place!
Thursday 30th June Local author Jo Verity talks about the people, places and events that have inspired her novels Free entry at the Library from 2.30pm - 3.15pm
Thursday 30th June The Butchers Arms Traditional Hog Roast with all the trimmings, £3.50 each, main and snack bar menus also available
Thursday 30th June Traditional Afternoon Tea at Café-Y-Felin, Heol Llanishen Fach from 2.00pm - 5.00pm, including homemade cakes, a selection of finger sandwiches and loose leaf tea, £9.50 per person, to reserve a table call Maria on 07787 225 199. Saturday 2nd July Houghton Wine Co. ‘Festival Tasting’, from 2.00pm - 8.00pm, entry price £3.50, with over 30 wines of all ranges from across the globe to sample Sunday 3rd July Cymdeithas Gymraeg Rhiwbina’s Cymanfa Ganu from 8.00pm at Beulah Chapel, free entry.
Friday 1st July Rhiwbina Market Festival Special with a fine selection of fresh local produce, from 10.00am - 2.00pm
Friday 1st July Snails and Houghton Wine Co. present a Mediterranean Summer Supper at Snails Deli from 7.00pm - 11.00pm, tickets £36.00 available from Houghtons Wine Co. 4 Beulah Road, including food and wine
Friday 8th July An Organ Recital with the popular International Organist Mr. Jeffery Howard, 7.30pm at Bethany Baptist Church, Saturday 9th July in aid Church Charities, tickets £5.00 in advance Coach trip to Weston-Super-Mare from Threads, Serenade, The Honey Pot, organised by the Rhiwbina Civic Society. Full details The Deri Stores and by telephoning 029 2062 6111 or of prices timings and the day’s itinerary from £6.00 on the door (subject to availability) duncan3@hotmail.co.uk or by telephoning 029 2062 6111
1 1 0 2 l a i v t s e F r e m S um Saturday 2nd July 2011 11.00am to 3.00pm We are all keeping our fingers crossed that the fine weather will be with us again for the Summer Festival on Saturday 2nd July. * * * * * * *
Musical entertainment Children’s rides Ice creams and snacks Craft stalls and street traders Colouring competition Face painting and balloons Live performances in the Arena
Come and join us in the Village from 11.00am for a day of fun and enjoyment. We thank you for your support and we look forward to seeing you on the day - don’t miss it!
Rhiwbina Village Events Committee Staged performances from local schools, youth groups and community performers will again take place on the Hern & Crabtree stage outside the Brookhouse Nursery from 11.00am - including a special performance from the fantastic local folk-acoustic duo BarlowCree! We’re delighted to welcome back The Copthorne Players for the day along with our favourite event DJ Sparky Marky as compere
The Colouring Colouring sheets available from our friends in Serenade from 11th June with a £1.00 donation Competition to the Christmas Tree Appeal Returns! Great prizes! Completed entries to be returned to the Library by 25th June. Competition winners to be announced on stage during Festival Day
Our deepest appreciation to all of the following businesses:Partners: Gateway of India J A Hughes Solicitors Juboraj Restaurant Pinnacle Internet Marketing Rhiwbina Baptist Church Rhiwbina Dental Surgery Rhiwbina Farmer’s Market Serenade Spar The Butchers Arms The Deri Inn Supporters: Airpro Systems Edwards & Co G. Raybould Butcher Kingman and Davies Opticians Friends: Beulah Dress Agency Cleaver Flooring Emyr Pierce Solicitors Houghton Wine Co. Morgan Lloyd Williams Muddy Bums Signor Barber Shop Snails The Flower Lodge The Olive Branch Victoria Fearn Gallery And our ongoing thanks to all our other commercial and personal sources that help to make these events a success
k o.u s c . t ina e ac b Come and take part in the Treasure Hunt on hiw of th tage r . Festival Day - Collect your treasure map ww rder ee S w r t from New Roots Garden Centre and isi ing o rabt v find Squidgy the Squirrel in the n t to l run n & C Village shop windows to win e g r l for e fu e He some great prizes t ’ n h th Do for on t (£1.00 entry donation to the Christmas Tree Appeal)
Last year’s winning entry by Anna Ruddock
SAME GREAT PUB BRAND NEW DINING EXPERIENCE Curry night every Monday!
2-4-1 Mon-Thurs between 5-7pm Thurs night open mic night Fri and Sat live music
Sun – traditional Sunday lunch
Relax and enjoy the new brasserie style menu featuring some of Wales’ best producers including the amazing Celtic Pride beef and Pork. Four meals for the price of three for senior residents, Monday to Fridays!
To Book Tel: 02920 693526
10% of with t f vouchhis er
ho entitle tocopies. Vo Ye Old Butchers Arms, s 10% ucher off 22 Heol-y-Felin, Rhiwbina, only. ExcludestoStuanl food bill day lunch www.capitalcuisine.co.uk No p
Business in Focus Serenade Cards and Gifts shop on Heol-yDeri was Rhiwbina Living’s very first advertiser. Now celebrating 11 years in the village, owners Paul and Maggs have become the focal point of the community. n an age where the internet has shrunk the world, and where greetings have been reduced to virtual ‘poking’, it’s good to know that the traditional method of passing on greetings and love is very much alive in Rhiwbina.
I
The village’s stalwart shop, Serenade has been at the centre of most community activities since its opening in 2000. “There was a card shop here before us, called Cascade.” says owner Paul. “We’ve been here for eleven years now and in that time, we’ve got to know most of the locals by name. It’s a lovely village to work in.” The shop stocks a wide range of quality greetings cards and gifts, as well as a selection of soft toys and balloons. “We also sell the popular Demdaco Willow Tree figurines, which always sell well when there’s a special day coming up.” says Paul. Teramundi Money Pots are also a favourite, and so too are the m.t.y. Tatty Teds. The shop was nominated for a
N M Tree Surgery & Ground Maintenance The Difference is Knowledge
All Aspects of Tree Surgery Dangerous Trees Tree & hedge planting, hedge cutting, grass cutting, fire wood supplies Fully qualified NPTC UK Fully Insured Contract and private work undertaken 24 hour call out 07912 988666 or 02921 404003
prestigious Retas Award last year, something they’ve managed to achieve in 2011. “If we win this one, everyone in Rhiwbina will know!” says Paul. You can find Serenade and pick up a bargain on the busy Heol-yDeri, in the centre of Rhiwbina village.
A: 13 Heol-y-Deri, Rhiwbina T: 02920 522424
Did you know that we also offer leaflet design, copywriting and PR services? Call us on 07772 081775 for a friendly chat. www.livingmags.co.uk
See in the Summer
with glasses from £39 KINGMAN & DAVIES OPTOMETRISTS 3a Beulah Road, Rhiwbina
02920 61 1283
Rhiwbina Living Page 19
New faces in Rhiwbina
New faces in With the economy squeezing local traders, it’s good to see brave business people bucking the trend and setting up shops in North Cardiff. Meet some of the new faces in the village.
Rhiwbina
“We were bowled over by the great sense of community that we experienced in Rhiwbina”
The Haus girls Two familiar faces have moved into Rhiwbina Village. Gail and Vivian are excited about their new business venture and are looking forward to opening their door to haus which will specialise in home furnishings, curtains and blinds. Previously they had both enjoyed successful careers with Maskreys, a well known and much loved independent furnishing retailer. Gail was the General Manager for the company and Vivian managed the Soft Furnishings Departments in all three stores as well as the busy workroom which produced the curtains, blinds and other soft furnishings. Between them they gained 30 years experience and extensive knowledge in Contemporary Furnishings which included working together on both commercial and domestic projects. Due to the retirement of Robert Maskrey, sadly the business closed its doors during the winter of 2010 and both Gail and Vivian found themselves redundant and facing an unknown future. In the light of the New Year while meeting up for a coffee they were reminiscing about the day to day buzz of Maskreys and how much they were missing it and thought "why can't we bring back that shopping experience to Cardiff". In a matter of weeks, one of the criteria was to look for the right location and after considering many options they found their ideal shop in the heart of Rhiwbina Village. During their extensive search they were bowled over by the great sense of community spirit they experienced in Rhiwbina of which they hope to become part of. Gail and Vivian are keen to offer the same care and Rhiwbina Living Page 20
commitment that they were known for and will be offering a complete home interiors service, including made to measure curtains and blinds. Visit their relaxed friendly showroom and browse through their extensive collection of fabrics, wallpaper and home accessories where you will be truly inspired. A: 6c Heol-y-Deri, Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 6HF T: 02920 611372 W: www.haus-cardiff.co.uk E: info@haus-cardiff.co.uk
contemporary furnishings Two familiar faces from maskreys are looking forward to welcoming you to haus. Gail and Vivian have built up 30 years experience in contemporary furnishings during their career with maskreys and will continue to offer WKH VDPH ÀUVW FODVV VHUYLFH DW haus.
we specialise in ...
%/,1'6 0DGH WR 0HDVXUH &216(59$725< %/,1'6 $:1,1*6 3/$17$7,21 6+877(56 62/87,216 )25 %$< 6+$3(' :,1'2:6
02725,6(' %/,1'6 75$&.6 &857$,16 0DGH WR 0HDVXUH 75$&.6 $1' 32/(6 )$%5,& $1' :$//3$3(5 +20( $&&(6625,(6 352-(&7 0$1$*(0(17
We offer a )5(( ,17(5,25 '(6,*1 6(59,&( and are happy to visit your home to work through ideas with you. We will be equally delighted to welcome you to our haus if you are just browsing and will give you as much or as little help as needed. See you soon
Gail & Vivian
www.haus-cardiff.co.uk
New faces in Rhiwbina
â&#x20AC;&#x153;Although tucked away, people are now getting to know a bargain when they find it.â&#x20AC;?
The Book Nook The aptly named Book Nook was opened at the beginning of March in the compact shop at the end of the Beulah Road shops in Rhiwbina Village. Although tucked away, people are now getting to know a bargain when they find it. Word is spreading and more and more are enjoying browsing through the varied and interesting books to be found there. Along with the books are a selection of gifts, jewellery, handcrafted items, book accessories and a range of handmade cards and prints taken from original paintings and drawings exclusive to the Book Nook. Many in the collection, a total of over 3.500 books, are unread recent publications in brand new condition. Others have been used but are still in excellent condition and feature popular authors including Lee Child, Henning Mankell, Philipa Gregory, John Grisham, Michael Connelly, Catrin Collier, to mention but a few.
Are you a new or existing business in Rhiwbina? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to help preserve and further our community spirit by welcoming new business to our village, and to champion the superb businesses that already exist here. In recent years, Rhiwbina has seen a lot of trade leave and shops close. Our village is a small one, squeezed on both sides by Whitchurch and Birchgrove. But weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re proud of Rhiwbina, its heritage, and its standing within the capital. Rhiwbina Living was launched in 2007 with its main aim of supporting local business. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re launching a new Business Section of Rhiwbina Living. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re wanting to build brand awareness locally, hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re offering:
You will also find a range of non fiction where you can browse through the lives of the kings and queens of Great Britain with books by authors such as Roy Strong, David Starkey and Terry Jones, also the lives of the rich and famous such as Alec Guinness, Piers Morgan, Peter Kay and Ingrid Bergman. As well as second hand children books, there is a range of new story and activity books for children. The shop now sells the popular Welsh Football magazine and several titles by local authors.
! ! " #$% " #$% &' ( ) * ! ! &' ( ) * ! ! " " " "
+ , -. + , , - + , -. + , - / /
- 0 - ' - 0 - ' 0 - 0 -
0 1 0 1 ' $ * ' $ * - - 2 " " 0 + 3 2 2 &1 * , ' + &1 * , ' +
' + 4 -
' + 4
53,600 magazines distributed free every year across North Cardiff 23,600 of these delivered DIRECTLY into peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homes by us. 150,000 magazines successfully distributed since our launch in 2007. Respected and trusted brand. Readers keep our magazines to form a directory of local businesses. Free advert design service. Unlimited advert changes per issue. NEW! Unlimited editorial on our North Cardiff community website (over 60,000 individual visitors since July 2010!) Generous discounts for series and/or cross bookings. Flexible payments. FREE distribution on your behalf. No more costly and time-consuming leaflet drops! Hyperlocal and targeted distribution. Our magazines hit specific areas, reducing wastage. Magazines available online for further exposure of your brand. CALL 07772 081775 to book your space now!
Rhiwbina Living Page 21
Est 1981
Window Cleaning and Maintenance o Traditional and Pole Fed System o Gutter Cleaning o Graffiti Removal o Pressure Washing
Tel: 029 2021 8244 Mob: 07970 037082 www.andrewscleaning.com info@andrewscleaning.com
R. Beynon
Landscaping and Bricklaying
12 Greenfield Avenue Whitchurch Cardiff CF14 1TF
Matthew Craig Associates Limited Chartered Accountants & Tax Advisers
As a local provider of professional services, which include tax returns, audit and accountancy we are committed to providing a high quality personal service. Contact Steve Screech now and get these benefits:
- Free Consultation! - Fees fixed for 2 years! Introductory discounts up to 25%!
Office: 029 2056 7669 Mob: 07507 196736 Call us today or visit our website www.matthewcraigassociates.co.uk
Enjoy your garden this summer
Stonework • Brickwork • Slabs • Indian Stone Paving • Patios • Turfing • Pergolas • Ponds Garden Maintenance • Grass Cutting For your free quote contact:
Rob on 07980 295850 Based in North Cardiff
Email: beynon3@hotmail.com
Kris Hicks Electrical Electrical Rewires, Alterations and Additions. 24HR Breakdown Callouts, Fault Finding, Fuseboard Upgrades, Fire/Security Alarms, Garden Power and Lighting, Telephone/Computer Networking, New Sockets, Showers and Lighting
Tel : 02920 373665 Mob : 07772 177158
Kris Hicks Electrical is Registered with the NICEIC.
UKBlindsCardiff
An extensive range of made to measure blinds with a huge choice of fabrics and patterns
5 Year Guarantee on all products!
Top Quality Blinds at Superb Prices! T: 02920 520121 M: 07950 020463 E: philfreegard@hotmail.co.uk W: www.ukblindsdirect.com
Manufacture d in Wales!
Velux • Vertical • Venetian • Roller • Roman • Perfect Fit • Pleated
Local Causes
In a new feature, we take a look at the work of the good work undertaken by local RSPCA Cardiff & District Branch charities in the area. 74 T h i s i s s u e : T h e R SPCA Merthyr Road, Whitchurch,
Tel: 029 20521177
Cardiff. CF1 1DJ
Email: rspcabox.cardiff@hotmail.co.uk
This is an extremely busy time for the branch – and it’s likely to continue for a few months yet. At the moment we’ve got several mums and their litters of kittens looking for new homes. Whereas there are usually plenty of people looking for a kitten, we would like prospective adopters to consider the lovely mums when they are finally kitten free and neutered. Here are just a few:
Opal is the oldest of our single mums at around 6 years old. She has just had her 11th litter of kittens. She was a brilliant mum to all four kittens in her last litter and even adopted a little lone kitten into her brood. Opal is a beautiful chocolate colour. She’s extremely affectionate, loves to curl up on a Rhiwbina Living Page 24
comfy lap and is good with children and possibly other cats. She will be neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, flead, wormed and ready to enjoy some pampering of her own. Nutmeg is around two years old and has recently given birth to three beautiful kittens. They have now all been reserved and can't wait to go to their new homes. Nutmeg was not the most maternal of cats and found having kittens a real inconvenience - she would much rather sit on her outdoor shelf and catch strokes from passers by. She has been neutered, fully vaccinated, microchipped and is desperate to have a space all to herself. Here are a few words from our cat socialiser: "Nutmeg has a lovely personality, she is so loving and extremely playful. She really deserves a perfect forever home, come and meet her today.” This beautiful little cat goes by the name of Olivia. She gave birth to five gorgeous kittens and even adopted another little straggler. Olivia is about 18 months old, so only a kitten herself. She is extremely affectionate and has been a terrific mum! She really deserves a very special home where she can have lots of TLC all to herself. Olivia seems to get on quite well
with other cats, she is also great with young children because she is so laid back. She has now been neutered, fully vaccinated, microchipped and can't wait to find her new forever home and enjoy her kitten free life. It is inevitable that we’ll get more mums and kittens in as the season progresses. So do please give us a call if you are considering a new pet. We don’t have an animal centre in Cardiff - our cats are usually at private catteries or with fosterers – and we are always grateful for donations of pet food, especially kitten food - also towels, scratch posts, toys etc. Goods can be dropped at our Whitchurch office, or please call if you would like them collected. RSPCA Cardiff & District Branch has now been based in Whitchurch for a couple of years and we are so grateful for the support we’ve received to date. Many people are unaware that, as a Branch of the RSPCA, we are an independent charity. We receive no financial support from the National Society – nor do we receive any government or Lottery funding. Therefore our work with local animals in need depends on the support of the community, by way of donations, legacies, fundraising etc. During 2010 we rehomed over 350 unwanted or cruelty case animals. We helped hundreds of people struggling to pay emergency vet bills and helped hundreds more to neuter and microchip their pets. Without the support of the community we would be unable to do this, so we’d like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you!
Pets
Can I Clean My Dog’s Sore Teeth? My elderly mother has an old red setter who seems to be in a little pain with teeth. She tends to gulp her food down now instead of chewing it. Am I able to clean the dog’s teeth myself? Dental problems are incredibly common in older pets, so it’s quite likely that your diagnosis of oral pain is correct. However, it’s not likely that you will be able to improve her comfort by brushing her teeth alone, at this late stage. The most frequent cause of dental problems is a buildup of tartar on the teeth - this is a hard yellow-brown material which is stuck very firmly, and can only be removed by mechanical scraping. Tartar causes gum inflammation and infection which damages the gum support to the teeth, eventually leading to loss of the teeth. Dogs can also get abscesses under their teeth, and caries (rotten teeth), so there are several possible reasons for your dog’s discomfort. The good news is that these problems can almost always be treated very successfully and it is really important that you get your mother’s dog to your vet as soon as possible.
Toothbrushing is a useful way of helping your dog’s teeth stay healthy. Tartar starts off as soft plaque on the surface of the teeth, and this can be removed by brushing (and to a certain extent by chewing on hard or fibrous material). Within 48 hours, plaque starts to harden into tartar which can’t be brushed off, so you need to brush
Pets’ Page Resident vet, Chris Troughton is happy to answer any of your pet-related questions. Drop him a line at editor@livingmags.co.uk the teeth every day. You should always use a pet toothpaste not a human one, as they taste better and are safe to swallow - it is difficult to get your dog to rinse & spit!
Basket Case? I have a 9 year old tabby who we’ve had as a family pet for about 5 years. He was a rescue cat, and as such, he is very nervous. I have great difficulty in getting him into his carry basket when I need to visit the vets. Do you have any advice on how to calm my little moggy? There is a very useful pheromone treatment called ‘Feliway’ which makes many cats more relaxed. You can spray it in the basket and on the blanket or towel you put in there (use one he already sleeps on in his bed, if possible, so he’s familiar with it) Feliway is available at your vets. Try to remain calm and unstressed yourself when getting him in the basket, as cats are very sensitive to their owner’s feelings and will react accordingly. The top-opening cat baskets are far easier to use, but if yours opens at the end, one trick I find very helpful is to put the cat in backwards - bottom first. Once in the basket, some cats seem happier if they can see out, others are calmer if they are in the dark. You should be able to work out what your cat prefers.
To Be or Not to Be Brushed? I’ve heard that brushing my cat can help relieve stress and anxiety, but as soon as he sees the brush, he
Pets’ Page is sponsored by the Heath Veterinary Group
runs and hides. I’m worried that he may get knots in his fur. Most cats certainly enjoy being stroked and it does help to relax them, but this enjoyment doesn’t always extend to being brushed! Insisting that he is groomed will not relieve his stress and anxiety if he dislikes it, but if he has a long coat, it is important it is brushed regularly to stop it matting. Ideally, grooming needs to be started at a young age, and be done ‘little and often’; follow the grooming with a reward and make the whole experience pleasant for both of you. The same principle applies to your fearful older cat - to get him to accept grooming, you need to build up his tolerance gradually. Try one of the glove-brushes to start, and only do it for a very short time. Be calm and gentle and reward him afterwards with a favourite treat. Gradually increase the time you are able to brush him, and try using an ordinary brush and comb. If you find knots in his coat, gently tease them out, or cut them with scissors - but be very careful as we regularly have to treat wounds created when cutting knots out.
(029) 2062 1511 Rhiwbina Living Page 25
Thornhill-based
Tree Surgery & Hedge Cutting
Fully Qualified Fully Insured Free Quotations T: 02920 761041 M: 07706 838092 E: hedgehogs0@yahoo.com
www.cardifftreesurgery.co.uk
ENJOY MORE PRECIOUS FAMILY TIME WITH ‘HOME SUPPORT SERVICES’
NG CLEANI
MEALS
Genie G ift Vouchers now available
LAUNDRY S D N A ERR SHOPPING Absolute Genie provide a comprehensive range of flexible home based family support services for new and busy families throughout Cardiff and the surrounding areas. “You tell us what you want and we’ll do the rest” Email info@absolutegenie.com www.absolutegenie.com Call 02920198800 Absolute Genie is a service provided by Absolute Care Wales, an independent family owned domiciliary care provider.
Cardiff Bed and Furniture Centre 47 Merthyr Road, Whitchurch, CF14 6DB
ALE REFURBISHMENT S
25% OFF
ALL DISPLAY BEDS
10% OFF ALL OTHER DISPLAY STOCK
e!!” “When it’s gone - it’s gon Bed Stockists of Myers, Staples, Dreamworks, Sweet Dreams and More! www.cardiffbedcentre.co.uk 02920 615719
Local Photo Album
Pen-y-Dre Through the Years
Peny−y−Dre near the junction
Pen−y−Dre (Homfray Road) 1926)
The 1930s
New houses
The 1970s Photographs cour tesy of Rhiwbina Garden Village Residents’ Association. Photos available on CD from Mar y Clarke, 5 Pen-y-Dre, Rhiwbina, priced £9.99
Summer’s evening stroll 1978 Rhiwbina Living Page 27
With just one call we do it all! All work fully insured Free advice Estimates Inspections Call 029 2089 1969 or 07800 872 282 Email:
info@ladybirdscleaning.com www.ladybirdscleaning.com
CUSTOM LANDSCAPING SERVICES Fencing Decking Lawns Returfed/Mowed Patios Trees Removed Hedges Trimmed Pruning / Lopping General Maintenance
All aspects of landscaping and gardening undertaken
10%
Call for a FREE quote on 02920 650907 or 07917 440856
deck off fencining and this g with supplie vouch d and er fitted durin by g May
and Ju ne 2011
us
& -. !/-'! 0 12&34 5 6 + 7 " 5 + " 8 ( + 5 ,
! " # " " $ %&' () * + + # , ! "
%:8 ;: 0 <*=$ >:8 $: 0 <? = @:8 %: 0 <?>$
A& +
4 <%$ ( " 5 5 , B + B # $ %%& ' ( )*' *)*' + '
9 + + " 5 " 5
0 ! + " 3 " + " C " ' + " " + " & + " & "
" " " 0 , - . / 0 1 2 # 3 1 /
WIN A £20 M&S ! R E H C U O V pe One entry
r househol
Survey
Readers’ Survey
d
Since our launch in 2007, Rhiwbina Living has been providing the people of North Cardiff with a regular and useful source of local information. But we’d like to do better. We’d like to know what we’re getting right, and what we can do to improve. This is YOUR magazine. We’d be grateful if you could spend five or ten minutes filling in this questionnaire to let us know what you think about Rhiwbina Living. We can accept photocopies if you don’t want to cut up this copy. Please send completed forms to our usual address on the inside front cover.
Magazine 1. How would you rate the contents of the magazine? Poor/Average/Good/ Very Good 2. How would you rate the layout of the magazine? Poor/Average/Good/ Very Good 3. How well does Rhiwbina Living keep you abreast with news of your local community? Poorly/Average/Well/ Very Well 4. How do you rate the quality of writing in Rhiwbina Living? Poor/Average/Good/Very Good 5. Which is your favourite part of the magazine?
Website
Advertising
1. How would you rate our website on the following: Design: Poor/Average/Good/ Very Good Interest: Poor/Average/Good/ Very Good
1. Have you used any of our adver tisers for their services? Yes/No If so, who and how many times?
Other
Distribution
Further Comments Improvements:
Best bits:
Would you recommend Rhiwbina Living to someone else? Yes/No
1.Do you keep past copies of Rhiwbina Living? Yes/No 3. How many people in your household read Rhiwbina Living?
Your name and address (optional):
Rhiwbina Living Page 29
Crossword
Across 1. 4. 7.
underwater movie not a portrait? the end of alphaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beginning 10. memorable 13. jealousy 14. great or remarkable 15. and onion 18. and veg 19. frog-like amphibian 21. by the law 23. contest to reach a certain point 24. foot ailment 26. skin darkening 27. heavy weight 29. cautious procedures 30. distribute with others Rhiwbina Living Page 30
32. necessary 34. sailing boat 37. apply pressure 38. kick the proverbial 40. occurrence 42. not like 45. flea egg 46. nocturnal superhero 47. reduce in size
Down 1. commitment to do or not do something 2. legal proceedings for damages 3. cooking oil 4. very angry indeed 5. not happy at all 6. direct attention to the
tip 8. creative expression 9. expression of enquiry 11. indoors 12. me as a pronoun 16. long-necked animal 17. notice for public display 18. compassion 20. notice of death 22. measurement around middle 25. provide with harness or equipment 28. brief record of facts 29. grip tightly 31. our sun is one 33. collection of songs or photos
35. slang for taxi 36. unpleasant smell 39. make an opening or incision 41. a doing word 43. a person of high rank 44. have information Last Issueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Answers Across: 1 Liverpool; 5 panda; 9 zip; 10 mac; 11 aspirin; 12 gnu; 13 antisocial; 17 lay; 18 hum; 19 blend; 22 pop; 23 wit; 25 ring; 27 eyelash; 29 doughnut; 30 in; 31 ore; 34 bank; 38 waffle; 42 tiger; 43 telephone; 46 lapse; 47 envy
Down 1 length; 2 vacuum; 3 pizza; 4 oap; 5 piano; 6 Diana; 7 drip; 8 windy; 14 nut; 15 indigestion; 16 lamp; 19 underwear; 20 bib; 21 elf; 22 parsnip; 23 window; 24 fluff; 26 bruise; 28 ship; 32 pale; 33 cherry; 35 arch; 36 kiln; 37 alive; 38 wail; 39 flap; 40 stay; 41 flip; 44 pip; 45 egg; 48 no
Column
nce upon a time.....As an English teacher, I once started the lesson by asking my students to write the first three lines of a story. It was coming up to Hallowe’en and I thought it would be topical to focus our skills on writing horror. The school I was teaching in was an 19th century mansion house and the room we were in was particularly apt for our task at hand. We were at the very top of the house in what used to be the attic. The floorboards squeaked and the heavy wooden roof joists that ribbed the room were riddled with cobwebs and dark nooks. We shut the wooden shutters that hung on the windows for added effect. Legend had it that the house used to be a convent. It was one stormy night, back in the late 1800s that one of the nuns, after having her illicit affair with a married man discovered, took a length of rope and hanged herself on the stairs leading up to the attic. And once a year, on the anniversary of her death, you can hear footsteps making their way up the stairs- and then stopping half way. That’s what I told them anyway. There was some truth in the story but it was always better to ‘add a little bit more spice’. The students’ stories could be based anywhere and at any time, past, present or future. I gave them no more information than that and off they set. After three minutes of furious pen scribbling, I asked them to put their pens down. Looking a little bit confused, they put their pens down. Starting at the back of the room, I asked them to read out the first four words of their story. It went something like this: “Once upon a time....” “One day, I was...” “One day, I was...” “Once upon a time...” “One day, I was...” “Once upon a time...”
O
They soon got my point. As a writer, it was frustrating to see so much unoriginality in these kids’ heads. Yet, how were they to know any different? I’ve sat through many horror movies and have always failed to see why they are scary. Hollywood has a great tradition of churning out the same old rubbish when it comes to horror- a group of people (usually dopey American teenagers staying somewhere they shouldn’t be) getting bumped off by some figure from the past who wants to take revenge on blah blah blah. The truly scary thing about these movies is that people continue to rent them, buy them and watch them when in fact, they all follow the same narrative pattern. And we all know that the baddie is always going to get it in the end. Back in the room, as it were, the kids were realising that if they were going to grab the reader’s interest, they had to do it in the first few words of their story. We were about to move on to the next phase of the lesson when CLUNK- the lights went out. Slivers of daylight sliced through the shutters. Other than that, there was total darkness. Some of the girls screamed. Remembering that there was a torch in my top drawer, I fumbled around and switched it on. I’d always wondered why it was there. Now I knew why. I gathered the kids around. Thinking on my feet, I thought it’d be fun to pass the torch around, to hold it under our chins to create a spooky face, and to tell each other ghost stories. The kids really got in the spirit of things (pun intended) and the girls’ squealing was getting louder and louder. The torch passed to me and I started telling the kids about the day my grandfather drove past a friend of his. He was driving up Cemetery Lane in Barry, when up ahead he saw his old school friend, Billy Evans. My grandad slowed as he approached Billy but Billy was acting strange. For starters, he didn’t seem to notice the
approaching car, and then he simply changed direction, and walked straight through the cemetery fence and disappeared behind a gravestone. My grandad drove on but couldn’t see the gap that Billy would have just passed through. When my grandad got home, the first thing he did was tell my grandmother about the strange experience he’d just had with Billy. My nan, who was sat in her armchair reading the local newspaper, clasped her hand over her mouth. She held out the newspaper on the page she was reading and showed it to my grandad. He slumped into his chair in shock. There in the paper was an obituary for his friend Billy Evans. BAM! No sooner had I delivered the final, killer twist than the lights came back on in the classroom with a bang. Everyone jumped including me. One girl was literally clinging to her friend and one boy had chewed his pen down to the nib. At the end of the lesson, one of the more challenging pupils came up to me. She rolled up her sleeves to show me that the hairs on her arms were still stuck up in the air. She held out her hands they were still shaking. She told me that she’d never forget that lesson. I told her that that was the power of stories. For many of us, the fear of not knowing is the thing that gets to us most. For me, knowing how a predictable Hollywood film is going to pan out takes the fear out of the film. A good story throws in the unexpected. Which is why when I moved to a different school, and they turned my classroom into an office without consulting me, throwing all my resources in the skip (as well as offering my job to an unqualified teacher), I decided to leave teaching and set up Living Magazines instead. The scary thing is, there are some stories you just couldn’t make up.
Rhiwbina Living Page 31
From Jenkins Suzuki
SMALLL CAR SMAL CAR
EEXPERTS XPERTS
FFREE R E E RROAD OAD A TTAX AX FOR 1ST YEAR
Designed for yyou ou ¡ Available in 3 and 5 door ¡ 1.2 petrol engine (diesel engine available early 2011)
¡ MP3/WMA compatible CD tuner ¡ USB port ¡ Automatic air-conditioningâ&#x20AC;
¡ Engine start buttonâ&#x20AC; ¡ Bluetooth technologyâ&#x20AC;
door SZ4, 5 door Swift SZ4, own is the Swift shown Model sh
116 g/km
56.5mpg combined*
.
combined 50.4 (5.6) to 56.5 (5.0). C02 ffrom rom 116g/km ttoo 129g/km AAllll prices prices and spHFL˸FDWLRQV Dre spHFL˸FDWLRQV Dre correct correct at at time time ooff ggoing oing ttoo press. press. ** **For For vehicles vehicles ˸tted ˸tted with manu manual al transmission. transmission. â&#x20AC; AAvailable vailable as sta sstandard tandard on SSZ4 Z4 m models. odels.
Jenkins Suzuki
AddresV +DG˸HOG 5G 2ˡ 3HQDUWK 5G &DUGLˡ &) $4 AddresV +DG˸HOG 5G 2ˡ 3HQDUWK 5G &DUGLˡ &) $4 Phone: (029) 2064 2900
ZZZ FDUGLˡVX]XNL FR XN
OPENING HOURS: Mon - Fri 9.00am - 7.00pm. Sat 9.00am - 5.00pm. Sun 10.00am - 5.00pm.