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RHIWBINA Living Issue 25 Winter 2013
Christmas Nights: Rhiwbina Prepares for Winter
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@LivingMags
Welcome Croeso
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contents 3 News 5 Letters ortraits 8 Rhiwbina Pment 13 Reimburse 15 Short Story nd Cardiff 16 Undergrou 21 Gareth Hill 25 Pets’ Page y News 29 Communit 30 Recipes 31 Column
It was exactly six years ago that we were sat here CELEBRATES G IN IV L A IN B RHIW writing our very first ‘Welcome’ section. MONTH IS TH E U S IS TH 5 2 Looking back now, we can only wonder how we ITS managed to get it off the ground, but we do know that 07 20 in ck ba that it took an enormous amount of work and ay w It was na bi w dedication. Thankfully, it seemed to pay off and the residents of Rhi pies of co r ei th ed here we are now, penning the welcome for our 25th first receiv on s ar ye x Si . ng issue. Rhiwbina Livi It was just as we’re going to press that we heard the and 25 issues later, we’re still sad news that Stan Stennett has passed away aged going strong. all our 88. We interviewed Stan at his Rhiwbina home back We’d like to thank ve made the in 2010. The few hours that we spent with him left advertisers who ha nd we’d .A an indelible mark on us that we’ll treasure forever. magazines possible aders, re r He enjoyed telling us anecdotes and stories that like to thank all ou ide us ov you’ll never hear anywhere else - like the day he who continue to pr ck on an ba ed fe flew Tommy Cooper to London; the day he flew one with positive ck. of his dancers to hospital where she was promptly e almost daily feedba issues and Our first ever issu 25 r he ot an treated, thus saving her life; and the round-the-clock to Here’s from 2007 ers! hours he put in as a young man just to get a foot on to more happy read the entertainment ladder. But Stan would never brag about the legendary names he worked with - in his words: “It does sound awfully big headed doesn’t it, mentioning all these names but it’s not like that. , Cardiff It’s just the way it was. I didn’t Road, Rhiwbina h c a tb n Pa 2 22 A: ask for it to be that way.” G We therefore dedicate this issue CF14 6A 022920 081775 / 07974 2 77 07 T: of Rhiwbina Living to our friend, mags.co.uk E: editor@living the wonderful Stan Stennett. ags.co.uk W: www.livingm That just leaves us to wish you , the publisher y of the contents any way arising sure the accurac in r en tte to ma de y ma an en for or be s all a very happy and peaceful issions, made to contact any copyright While every effortanha for errors or om ty bili en nsi be po s res on. ha y effort nnot accept ation of this material. Everyan nt, apolitical publicati Christmas. See you in the spring. ca blic ng is independe Livi aff from the puitch nd Lla d for an h e holders. Wh urc d copy deadlin n a g n ki o o b g rtisin 14. Patric and Danielle (editors) Adve 14th February 20 y a id Fr 26 e su Is 2014. ion date - March Issue 26 publicat 2 year. a ished 4 times
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RHIWBINA CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL Rhiwbina Christmas Festival takes place on Saturday 14th December, starting at 4pm.
GATEWAY OF INDIA WINS ANOTHER TOP AWARD
Rhiwbina’s Gateway of India has won ‘Best Indian Takeaway in Wales’ at this year’s prestigious Asian Food Awards. Owner Moslaur Rahman told Living Magazines Cardiff: “We are absolutely delighted to win this award. We work very hard to bring the finest food to the community and we’d like to thank everyone who supported us at the these awards.” The Gateway of India offers a unique ‘heat & eat’ concept, that has been enticing an expanding following of foodies since they rolled it out in 1995. The freshly prepared, expertly cooked Indian cuisine dishes combine only the finest ingredients — and their signature blast-chill process will allow you to enjoy a deliciously nutritious meal at your leisure — making them the perfect choice for dinner parties and special soirées! If your eyes are bigger than your belly, then fret not, as their tantalizing tastes can also be saved for later or even frozen! The Asian Food Award ceremony, which took place on 31st October, was held to recognise the finest Asian food establishments, culinary teams, and innovative ideas across Wales and the West.
news RHIWBINA SQUIRRELS SHOW SUPPORT FOR WI’S WHITE RIBBON CAMPAIGN Rhiwbina Squirrels recently teamed up with the Women’s Institute to support their ‘Not In My Name’ campaign, speaking speak out against violence towards women. The team were presented with white ribbons to mark International Day for the Eradication of Violence Against Women (also known as White Ribbon Day) which took place on 25th November. The National Federation of Women’s Institutes Wales joined up with Joyce Watson AM last
year, and this year’s campaign has seen the likes of Cardiff City, Cardiff Devils and the WRU supporting the scheme. The Squirrels were presented with their ribbons by WI’s Sheila Lowe, who told Rhiwbina Living: “We are very pleased that the Rhiwbina Squirrels are supporting this campaign. “Wearing a white ribbon is a personal pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.”
NEW CYCLE ROUTES PROPOSED As part of the North Cardiff Community Route, two cycle routes have been proposed in Rhiwbina. The Blue route would run along Heol Llanishen Fach, Rhiwbina Hill and Pantmawr Road. The Amber route would run from Thornhill Road junction along Heol
Llanishen Fach, Heol Ty’n y Coed, Ty Gwyn Road, Heol-y-Felin (past the Butcher’s Arms), Beulah Road and the length of Pen y Dre. A spokesperson for Cardiff County Council said: “The route will enhance the network of routes in and around Cardiff, making use of
excellent existing infrastructure and joining together sections of existing route and quiet roads. “The scheme will improve the facilities for the whole community.” The deadline for responses to the consultation is Friday 13th December 2013. 3
news
DR WHO SIGNS OFF IN GABALFA
Photograph by Leanne Roberts
Dr Who star Matt Smith signed off from his time-travelling duties by filming his last episode in Gabalfa. Sharp-eyed observers caught sight of the Doctor and his sidekick Clara Oswald, played by actress Jenna-Louise Coleman, outside Lydstep Flats. The episode will be Smith’s last one as the 11th Doctor and will feature as the Christmas Special for this year. The Thick of It star Peter Capaldi will make his first appearance in the same episode as Smith’s successor, the 12th Time Lord. Matt Smith had to wear a wig on set, having shaved his hair off
for a role in Ryan Gosling’s directorial debut. At the recent GQ Men of the Year Awards, Smith lamented about his current hairpiece: “I cut my hair for a film, but it means I have to wear a wig in Doctor Who, which is a nightmare. “It’ll be sad - the end of a wonderful era!” Matt Smith has played the part of Dr Who since 2010. The show, produced by BBC Wales, regularly uses Cardiff locations for its filming. Dr Who fan Dale Sharp told Living Magazines: “It’s great to have such an iconic show produced right here in Cardiff. My friend and I regularly keep tabs on the show’s filming locations so that we can head down and get a look. Matt was great down at Lydstep Flats - he took time out after filming to chat to us fans and to sign autographs. I can’t wait to see the episode in its entirety!” Doctor Who returned to BBC One for its 50th anniversary special on Saturday 23rd November.
RHIWBINA PACT DATES 2014 The dates for 2014’s PACT meetings have been published. All meetings take place at All Saints Church, Heol Y Felin between 6.30pm and 7.30pm. The dates are as follows: • • • • • • 4
21st January 2014 8th April 2014 10th June 2014 4th August 2014 21st October 2014 16th December 2014
PACT meetings are an opportunity for the community to have their say on what matters the most to them in their area. Residents at PACT meetings are helping paint an accurate picture of what is really happening locally. The problems encountered are discussed and solutions explored. Neighbourhood Officers decide on up to three priorities for each meeting.
CHRISTMAS LANTERN PARADE A festive lantern parade will take place at the Rhiwbina Winter Festival starting at 6.30pm
ST DAVID’S HALL HAS IT ALL THIS WINTER
There’s a warm welcome for everyone at St David’s Hall this winter and with such great variety, there’s something to please every taste. Fans of all things Christmassy will love Katherine Jenkins’ festive show, along with the Welsh National Opera Orchestra, conducted by Anthony Inglis, and the Treorchy Male Choir. This year, St David’s Hall is honoured to host three Tchaikovsky ballets from two leading Russian ballet companies: The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty and Swan Lake. Stunning choreography, sumptuous costumes and wonderful sets make each one an unforgettable experience. In December, The Sixteen perform some choral Christmas music with harp accompaniment, ranging from carols from medieval times through to pieces by Britten and Poulenc, whose centenary and fiftieth anniversary of his death are marked this year. January promises a varied programme of organ pieces from talented organist Sarah Baldock, and music by Bridge and Ravel from piano trio, The Busch Ensemble. More details at www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk
If you’d like to get in touch, you can find our address on the inside front cover. Alternatively, you can email us at editor@livingmags.co.uk
letters
A BIG THANK YOU!
I just wanted to say a huge ‘thank you’ to all the local residents, businesses, family, friends and neighbours who supported and sponsored me in my Kilimanjaro climb in September. It was a fantastic, rewarding experience although quite brutal at times. The higher the ascent, the harder the climb became while adjusting to the altitude. Running up the Wenallt doesn’t seem so difficult any more! The local porters do an amazing job and the group and myself could not have managed without them. All proceeds raised went towards the vital research and work of the Meningitis Research Foundation. Many thanks again. Luke Enticknap, Rhiwbina
DOES IT ALL REALLY MATTER?
I recently read with interest that Cardiff Council have been accused of a ‘gross waste’ of taxpayers’ money last night by handing out what are claimed to be error-strewn diaries costing more than £20 each to its members. The story goes that councillors were each given hardback yearbooks at City Hall. The media reported the bill coming in at ‘an eye-watering £1,571’. This equates to each yearbook costing the tax payer around £20 for each councillor. Our Independent councillor, Jayne Cowan, refused to take her copy, pointing out that the yearbooks were ‘very small’ with ‘tiny print’. Fair enough. There were also reportedly many errors contained within the yearbooks, with members wrongly named as the chairs of at least three council committees. Whilst I can totally understand Jayne’s decision not to accept her copy (she pointed out that you could get yourself a bigger version for two pound elsewhere), it does tickle me that this kind of story hits the headlines in the press. Cardiff
Council probably had the right idea and yes, they may have gone about it the wrong way. Bear in mind too, that these yearbooks go to print at a particular point in time and will therefore be subject to some change at some point during the year. But surely ‘an eye-watering £1,571’ is nothing compared to the millions the council have to deal with in their budget each year? The report in the press reminds me of some national newspapers who keep reminding us that killer winter storms are on their way to the UK (there’s a thin layer of frost on my drive as I sit here writing this). Is it no real big surprise that it gets colder at this time of year? It’s called WINTER. Come on journalists - give us something of interest to read and stop making something out of nothing. D Middleton Birchgrove Cardiff
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Portraits of Rhiwbina
Earlier this year, as Rhiwbina celebrated its centenary, a local photographer documented the faces and stories of those who lived and worked in the village in 2013. This is her story. “I spent the first six years of my life running around the fields of Castell Coch Farm, where historically my ancestors rented the farming land from the Marquess of Bute.” says local photographer, Sarah Barnes. “My great grandfather eventually owned the 12 acre farm, rearing cattle, harvesting a vineyard and my father enterprising its present state as a 9 hole golf course. I am currently in my fourth year of a six-year 6-year Photography Practice BA from Cardiff Metropolitan University.” “I needed an idea for a book design assignment for one of my university modules. Early last 8
year a Rhiwbina Living magazine was delivered, featuring images of the workmen after completing the first houses in Y-Groes in 1913. As I read the article, I started to think about the photographer. What camera did they use? Who were they? I initially asked a few residents I knew well, and did some test shots with a 5 x 4 large format film camera, borrowed from university. As I processed the film in the darkroom, I knew immediately that the ‘Portraits of Rhiwbina’ project had potential. It was a way to look at the village today with a link to its hundred year heritage using photographic equipment which
would have been available at the time. Halfway through, I realised that ‘Portraits of Rhiwbina’ had developed a heartbeat of its own, of which I was now responsible for. Word had spread thanks to social media and there was lots
of interest in the concept. I very much doubt the use of a digital camera would have had the same effect. “The book was the first thing I produced. In terms of the book’s design, I wanted to interview each subject in order to get a sense of what Rhiwbina means to them individually and place their words alongside their portrait. The overall design was kept simple and I sought permission to use the original image of the workmen in Y-Groes which sparked the initial idea to be included. I asked local writer Gareth Hill to pen the foreword, which he did voluntarily and brilliantly. “I also asked Martha and Genevieve from the Art Workshop in Lon Fach to be part of the project. After photographing them, they asked if I would like to show all the images during the Rhiwbina Summer Festival. I was thrilled to be offered the chance to hold my first solo-exhibition and gratefully accepted. Without their
involvement in the project, it would have never been exhibited, as it was never my intention to show them publicly. Even after I had handed my assignment, I continued to photograph and interview more people to make the exhibition more appealing. I had not had time to photograph all the aspects of the village so I took the time to fill in the gaps. Places such as Rhiwbina Recreation Club had originally not been included, but historically is nearly as old as
the village itself. I re-accessed the work and actively went to those places I felt were missing. “Harley Jones from the Rhiwbina Civic Society played his part in the project providing names of potential subjects. The rest - I knocked on shopkeepers’ doors, gave out flyers, stopped people in the street and counted on friends and family members who grew up in Rhiwbina. Some nominated or suggested other possible people as I went along. There were 51 subjects in total and being an odd number, I asked my daughter to photograph me in Y-Groes, where the 1913 photographer may have stood. “I have lived in Rhiwbina for the last fifteen years and I realised that I didn’t know many people. I kept myself to myself, no clubs, no groups, no choirs, no gettogethers. Like many people, I have a house here, I go to work, I come home, I take the kids to parties, I chat in the playground but really I didn’t know anyone outside of these enclosed circles. I now wave or chat to many more people as I pass through the village and I know that some of the people involved in the project also have more notoriety, one proclaiming to me that he is now famous, because of his portrait! “The project took over the Gallery section of the South Wales Echo on the morning of opening night on June 21st 2013 which, in itself was a huge success. I was overwhelmed and humbled by all those who came to show their support including my university lecturers. “During the following three weeks, I was in the Art Workshop every Saturday. Cardiff Library and the National Library of Wales purchased a number of exhibition books for their local histories sections in addition
people
to selling the book during the exhibition. I now have very few copies remaining and doubt if I will reprint at this stage. “This project would not have been possible without the people who volunteered to take part. I can’t thank them enough. I hope that their photographs and stories will act as a document to the people of Rhiwbina village in 2013 and that residents in 2113, through the book, will be able to get a sense of village life during their bicentennial celebrations. “I feel like the project has gone full circle now, starting and ending with Rhiwbina Living!” See more of Sarah’s work, including Portraits of Rhiwbina at www.sarahbarnesphotography.co.uk
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Sunday December 15th 6.00pm 9 Lessons and Carols With Mulled wine and mince pies! ! Sunday December 22nd 8.00am Said Service 10.30am Family Service 6.00pm Evening Prayer ! Christmas Eve 5.00pm Christingle (bring the children!) 11.30pm Midnight Mass ! Christmas Day 8.00am Said Service 10.30am Sung Communion ! Come and celebrate with us! If you are in need of pastoral support or have any queries please contact Fr Andrew James on 02920 654406
Reimbursement The remarkable tale of Nick Salter At the age of 12, whilst on Scout Camp, Nick Salter was involved in a mountain bike accident that nearly cost him his life. As a result of the serious head injuries that Nick sustained, he was left with no recollection of the day the accident occurred or the days that followed. There is one thing that he will remember for the rest of his life though and that is the critical importance of the Welsh Air Ambulance that day. He says ‘without the fast response of the WAA and their crew, I may not be here today. I owe them my life.’ Nick’s accident happened on the rough terrain of the Forest of Dean and therefore, being airlifted was his only chance of getting to hospital. Fortunately, Nick went on to make a full recovery with only a few scars to remind him of that fateful day and is currently at university studying International Wildlife Biology.
Nick raising money with friends
Aside from his studies, Nick has made it his mission to repay the WAA as a ‘thank you’ for saving his life. He has been fundraising tirelessly since the age of 13 in an effort to give something back to the charity he owes so much to. With the backing of friends, family, teachers ‘and anyone else daft enough to get involved in my extreme sports’, Nick has accomplished a number of daring feats raising thousands of pounds for the WAA. He has arranged a number of sponsored bike rides, including one of 55 miles over the Brecon Beacons, riding over similar terrain as that of his accident! On top of this, he has organised bungee jumps, parachute jumps and bog snorkelling, ‘to name but a few.’ Now aged 18, and six years on from his accident, Nick has recently been recognised for his fundraising endeavours on ITV’s ‘Surprise Surprise’ (3rd November 2013) which he describes as ‘lovely but a huge shock!’ The huge amount of ambition that Nick has is clear in the sheer scale of his fundraising plans. Raising the bar a little more, Nick’s future pursuits include cycling from Cardiff to London next year ‘and further afield, I hope to climb Mount Kilimanjaro and row the Atlantic.’
by Alice Morgan
Before Nick embarks on his bigger plans though, he is hosting a musical event closer to home for the festive season. The event will be held on the 23rd December in the Earl Haig Club, Whitchurch and is a tribute to Michael Buble and the Rat Pack era. If you would like to attend, tickets are for sale at £10 Nick, aged 12, after his serious accident from the Earl Haig Club or by telephoning 07775 656410. Alternatively, they are also available for purchase from Nick’s website http:// fundraisingwithnick.webs. com where you can also see information of Nick’s past and future pursuits. The ticket price includes a buffet and all monies raised will go towards the WAA. Nick says, ‘Please come along and support us, it should be a great night to get Christmas off with a swing!’ What’s more, you may be saving somebody else’s life in the process. 13
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A Christmas night IN BY d Brown
“
How much longer are we going to be Mum?” James looked at his little sister Lilly. Tesco was no place for a six year old boy and a four year old girl this late on Christmas Eve. “I just need to get a few more things. Then we’re done. I promise.” said Mum, rummaging among the frozen turkeys in the chest freezer. She was clutching an armful of vegetables. Lilly looked to James, more in hope than anything. Then Dad came running over carrying a Christmas pudding. Ten minutes later and they were in the car. They weren’t moving very far or very fast. Mum had put the radio on to find some Christmas music. But James wasn’t feeling very festive. “How much longer we going to be?” asked James again. “I’m going as quickly as I can.” flashed Mum. Dad turned around and glanced at the children. He could make out their glum faces underneath their woollen hats in the gathering dark. “Bless them. They’re very tired.” James hated that. Being told that he was tired when he wasn’t. In fact, he was far away from being tired. Santa was coming tonight. James was going to be staying up all night to catch him this year. Dad carried on talking to Mum: “I want them asleep early tonight so you and I can have some time together.” “Don’t go getting too many funny ideas love.” she said. “I’ve got to do the sprouts tonight.”
Through the glare and glow of headlights and taillights, the car slowly made its way out of the city to the suburbs, where the traffic thinned out and Christmas seemed more welcoming. They passed homes, with lights glowing in their windows and James wondered if they were all ready for their Christmas. Mum and Dad certainly weren’t. The house was cold when they got in and Dad was quick to get the heating on. “Put the lights on James.” asked Mum, “I need to get tea on.” James headed to the front room of the house and turned on the Christmas tree lights. Despite the hustle and bustle of the house, the coloured lights shone silently as stars. The wrapped gifts underneath the tree shimmered with their reflection. And it brought some peace to James. Bath time. James was in and out of his bath in minutes. “Have you had a good wash?” called Mum from Lilly’s bedroom. Lilly was already in her pyjamas and dressing gown. “Yes.” replied James, quickly splashing his face. He got out and patted himself down, taking his warm and freshly-washed pyjamas off the radiator and headed into his bedroom. On his bed, where he had left them before shopping, were some items. Items to catch Santa out the second he stepped into his bedroom later that night. On the half-closed bedroom door, he was going to balance an old bucket. As soon as Santa pushed the door open, the
bucket would fall and James would be alerted. Into the bucket, James placed a load of Lego bricks, just to make things more interesting. Then he laid down some bubble wrap on the bedroom floor. Should Santa manage to somehow get around the bucket, he’d wake James by stepping on the bubble wrap. Finally James checked Dad’s camera that he’d taken from Dad’s cupboard. The plan was set. Tea was wolfed down in a matter of minutes. “Is Santa really coming to the house tonight?” Lilly had asked. “Yes. And I’m going to catch him out.” replied James. “You’ll see.” After tea, James and Lilly headed into the living room where Mum and Dad were sat exhausted on the sofa. Mum had lit some candles and the fire had been lit. Carols drifted softly from the radio. At last, it really felt like Christmas. “Can you read us The Night Before Christmas Mummy?” asked Lilly. “Of course.” said Mum and they all snuggled up tight on the sofa. But after a few minutes of reading, all went quiet until Mum coughed and spluttered with a large snore. Dad was asleep too. James and Lilly rose from the sofa, covered Mum and Dad in a blanket and took themselves upstairs to wait for Santa. “Do you think they’ll be ok there?” said Lilly. “I think so.” replied James. “Bless them. They’re very tired.” 15
Going Underground A short story by Whitchurch novelist Rhys Thomas
Take a look around you. We’re all familiar with the landscape around us. Or are we? Patric Morgan goes underground to discover some of North Cardiff’s subterranean secrets. Every town and city has its history. Yet here in North Cardiff, there lurks a little more than most. For those driving around Coryton roundabout, enjoying a stroll on Wenallt Hill, or visiting Insole Court this winter, there is little, if nothing to suggest that these areas contain secret constructions. Bunkers and war rooms, used or built to be used in the event of an all-out attack on the UK. Buildings that have now either vanished into history or conceal their past purpose. Buildings that signal a dark past,
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and the frosty shadow of the Cold War. For motorists driving around Coryton roundabout, there won’t be the slightest clue that up until quite recently, there stood a fairly substantial building. It was the Cardiff War Room. It was located at the rear of the Wales and the Marches Telecom Board HQ at Coryton, close to Junction 32 of the M4 motorway. Coryton was one of 13 Regional War Rooms built in 1952 to house the regional administration for Wales in the event of a devastating nuclear attack on Whitehall making central government impossible. It remained operational until approximately 1958 when the network of Regional War Rooms were replaced by the Regional Seats of Government; Coryton being replaced by RSG 8 at Brecon. The old war room was retained as a training centre for RSG personnel until 1965 when it was reactivated as the
Cardiff Corporation Main Control Centre. It performed this function until the disbanding of the Civil Defence Corps in 1968. With the formation of South Glamorgan County in 1974, it was reactivated as the South Glamorgan County Control and later South Glamorgan Emergency Centre, remaining in use until the end of the Cold War in 1991. After that date, the building was abandoned and once the ventilation plant was switched off the bunker deteriorated quickly. The building was of the standard Regional War Room design with one floor above ground and one floor underground. The other war rooms were at Tunbridge Wells, Reading, Cambridge, Nottingham, Manchester, Leeds, Belfast, Birmingham and Bristol. In the early 2000s, local children broke into the Cardiff war room. There was little internal damage although all external walls were
covered with colourful wall art. The following paragraphs describe the inside of the building as it appeared in 2003: “The plant rooms, toilets etc. are much as they would have been in 1952 but the rest of the rooms are laid out for their most recent use as the South Glamorganshire County Emergency Centre. We entered through the wooden door in the west wall which has now has a steel grille added in front of it for extra security. Beyond this there is a dogleg and a heavy steel blast door giving access to the upper ring corridor. Moving round the ring corridor in a clockwise direction (left) there are stairs down to the lower floor. The first room on the left contains cable hauled message basket system down to the floor below; unfortunately the mechanism for this is now broken and the basket is resting at the lower level. The mechanism consists of a wire basket and a system of ropes and pulleys for lowering the basket to the lower corridor. The basket locks in position in the upper room but can be released by pulling on the rope from below. The system is manufactured by Lamson who are better known for the ‘Lamson Tube’, a pneumatic message handling system used in many government buildings and still used in some department stores. Similar message baskets still exist at the Bristol, Leeds and Birmingham war rooms. Beyond this is the ‘County Military Headquarters’ with the floor now strewn with wooden debris and wire mesh. The third room on the left is a radio room with two heavy duty cables going out through the roof and a radio workbench across the far wall. The next room at the corner of the ring corridor is the men’s dormitory with four rows of two double bunks and an electric heater on the wall. There is a very narrow walkway between the rows of bunks and no lockers or space for them. The corridor now turns to the right into one of the largest rooms in the bunker, the canteen and kitchen. There is a
large serving counter and food preparation table a few feet in front of the near end wall; there are five open bays beneath it. Behind this is a Belling electric cooker and oven and next to it a mini Belling oven and a Creda water heater. There’s a Butler sink with a wooden draining board on each side and a wooden plate rack above it. In the canteen area there are tables and chairs, a double metal cupboard, six hay boxes (containers for delivering trays of hot food). There are also a large number of cooking pots and pans on the floor and a four shelf glass fronted bookcase containing recreational books and some civil defence books.”
A landmark that is still familiar for most residents of North Cardiff is the telecommunications mast that overlooks the area from its position on Wenallt Hill. Originally, it was to become a War Room for Wales, taking over from Coryton but this idea was abandoned in the late 1970s. The former Anti Aircraft Operations Room instead became the main BT war headquarters for Wales. The distinctive curved glass galleries were stripped out, and new dormitories, air conditioning, canteen etc., were installed in the 1970s but the work was abandoned before completion and the bunker is now disused although the adjacent BT radio
Photographs and information courtesy of Nick Catford
history
site remains in service. Up until not too long ago, it was an area for urban exploration as an interesting site, but the contents have since been burnt not by urban explorers but by the vandals that frequent the site. The Cardiff Corporation Llandaff Sub Control is located in Vaughan Avenue, Llandaff, at junction with Harlech Road. It consists of a single story surface brick blockhouse, now partly hidden by trees and bushes. The sub-control was built in 1956, remaining operational until the disbanding of the Civil Defence Corps in 1968. After that date, it remained in use, manned by Cardiff Corporation’s voluntary Civil Defence Organisation until 1984. It was in theory operational as the Corporation’s County Standby Control until 1991, but in practice it was never used apart from the storage of some radiac equipment. Since 1991, it has remained locked and unused. The WW2 Control was located in the adjacent Llandaff Court and the building a civil defence garages are still extant.
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‘Tis the Season to Visit Pugh’s!
Visit Santa at Pugh's Magical Winter Wonderland!
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Pugh’s Christmas Shop NOW OPEN ❅ Fresh Local Free Range Turkeys & Meats to Order at the Ty Nant Farm Shop ❅ Bespoke Hamper Service ❅ Christmas Food FesEval 30th November -‐ 1st December 2013 Pugh’s Garden Village | Ty Nant Nurseries | Radyr | Cardiff | CF15 8LB | 029 2084 2017
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We take this opportunity to wish Serving the community all our clients, both past and present, a Merry Christmas and for over 30 years a Happy New Year
With Thomas Simon
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• HOME VISITS AVAILABLE • 2 HEOL Y DERI, RHIWBINA, CARDIFF CF14 6HF TEL: 029 2061 1471 Please contact Sarah James or Natasha Aldridge Sarah James: email:sarah.james@oblj.co.uk Natasha Aldridge: email:natasha.aldridge@oblj.co.uk
South Wales’ Premier Bathroom And Tile Centre. Everything you need to make that room feel special Our NEW showroom is now open to the trade and public. We currently have over 30 displays of bathrooms and shower enclosures from some of the leading manufacturers in Europe. We also have on display a large range of Porcelain and Ceramic wall and floor tiles. Our shower displays range from small enclosures to large wet rooms and we are confident we can accommodate your needs. We are conveniently located just off Ocean Way in Regents Trade Park and are open 6 days a week. Unit 4 Regents Trade Park Galdames Place Cardiff CF24 5PS
Tel: 029 2046 4234 Opening Hours Mon – Friday 10 - 5 pm SAT 9 – 4PM
Seasons Greetings from Rhiwbina Baptist Church Rhiwbina Baptist Church is a community of faith proclaiming and " demonstrating Christ in mission; committed to vibrant worship and fellowship and equipping believers for fruitful ministry and service."
Rhiwbina Baptist Church has got something for everyone this Christmas. Please come along and share in the best news our planet will ever receive.
Seasonal Celebrations Sunday 8 December - Christingle (5pm): An early Christmas treat for children. Tuesday 10 December - Nursery Christmas (11am): A seasonal celebration led by the children of our fabulous Rhiwbina Baptist Church nursery. Sunday 15th December - Children's Christmas takeover (10.30am): a new spin on an old, old story. Sunday 15th December - Contemporary Carol Service/ Soul Christmas (5pm): Come to The Olive Branch in Rhiwbina village for some chilled yuletide tunes. Sunday 22nd December - Carols by Candlelight (6.30pm): with the brilliant Cardiff Sinfonietta Brass Ensemble, a perfect way to get you in the Christmas mood. Tuesday 24th December - Christmas Eve communion service (11.30pm): a space for reflection, beautiful choral music and holy communion. Wednesday 25th December - Christmas Day service (10.30am): all age worship to greet the king of the ages.
It's a tribute to Charles Dickens' genius that he was able to sum up the worst and best of Christmas in one short story. A Christmas Carol introduces us to the joyless curmudgeon, Ebenezer Scrooge, and his miserable point of view. But it also portrays Tiny Tim and Bob Cratchitt whose hearts are not soured by their circumstances and delight in the beauty of this season. There's much to be unhappy about this Christmas time as many of us are struggling with mounting bills and shrinking income. We are also part of a world where human trafficking, terrorism, and oppressive greed are blighting the lives of billions. However there is also beauty and joy to be seen around us. I'm reminded of a line in the famous prayer Desiderata written in 1927 by Max Ehrman but often attributed to an anonymous Baltimore churchyard in 1692. It starts with 'Go placidly amidst the noise and haste' but those are not the words I have in mind. The prayer ends with these words: "With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy." It is still a beautiful world. The Christmas message is about the author of beauty creating a world of wonder and making humanity in his beautiful image. It speaks of an enduring love that pursues us even when we shake our Scrooge like fists in his face. It tells of a baby born to be the king of love who has come to take us away from the night of our misery and into his glorious day. It's about the death of death and the promise of eternal life to those who will receive Him. All of us at Rhiwbina Baptist Church hope all of you have a great Christmas and a new year full of beauty. Happy Christmas. Nadolig Llawen.
There’s No Business Like Snow Business! Winter is upon us and, depending upon which newspaper you read, now would be a good time to batten down the hatches, keep your large shovels and wellies at the ready and head down to Tesco to stock up on tinned food and Kendal Mint Cake. This winter promises lots of wintery weather. We’re getting rather used to this snow business aren’t we? Three of the last four winters have brought with it more than a dusting of the white stuff and, following swiftly in its wake, a wave of wonderfully animated over-reactions. Supermarkets are overrun, people emptying shelves and filling their trollies as if Zombie Apocalypse has arrived while the roads and railway lines grind to the kind of gridlocked halt reminiscent of the final part of Deep Impact. A few inches silently falling to earth overnight tends to bring universal closure to the following day with families clamouring around the wireless (my dear departed Nan would be so thrilled that the word wireless has made such a comeback!) to see if the schools or offices in town are open. Homer Simpson style ‘WooHoos’ or ‘D’ohs’ accompanying the respective outcome. And all the while, somebody, somewhere will be scoffing at the clamour, muttering scornfully something along the lines of: “Two inches and we come to a standstill? They’ll be laughing their socks off in Canada or
Moscow.” And we all agree – because none of us get caught up in the panic / excitement do we? Do we? Of course, those of us old enough to remember, can recall the winter when we really did have snow deep enough to brag about it. The year was 1982; a new year, barely a few days old when Rhiwbina was cast back to the Ice Age. I was eight years old. I’d never heard the word blizzard used before. I loved how it sounded – blizzard. Some words just fit their meaning perfectly. It began snowing during the evening, shortly before bedtime. We lived on Heol-Yr-Efail back then and from the landing we had a view up the street, the Tax Offices of Ty Glas ordinarily offering a less than romantic view above the rooftops. But this night was magical. My brother and I looked excitedly out of the window, watching as huge, pancake-sized snowflakes swirled on the wind in the orange glow of the street lamp at the end of the drive. In a manner that would have delighted Dean Martin, it snowed and it snowed and it snowed. For two days, the winds blew and the snow continued to fall, shrouding Cardiff in a silent, white blanket that drifted six feet high against the doors and walls of our house and buried dad’s Morris Marina. The news was full of reports of people being trapped, of food
by Gareth Hill supplies running low, of the army being sent to help out – we were every bit as fraught about snow then as now. I, of course, thought it was great. Seeing snow piled as high as the back door, getting stuck up to my waist as I struggled to walk into the garden. Helping Dad and Bamps dig a path to the street, then watching them yomp off to the village to try and get some bread and milk; coming home an hour or more later following a sneaky detour at the Butcher’s Arms, who bravely kept the bar open throughout the ordeal. Brilliant! Rhiwbina had become Narnia. The lane which ran behind our back garden up to Beulah Road suddenly an enchanted, yet treacherous pathway of drifted snow and wiry brambles, of white witches and talking beavers (I was eight years old). The usual hazards of mud and dog poo buried deep beneath a heavy, icy quilt. For the first three weeks of 1982, the world was quiet, still and white. The snow finally melted midway through January. It shrank away in dirty grey puddles as colour and discernible shapes seeped back into the world. Normality swiftly resumed and the magic, within days, was gone. Gareth Hill is a Rhiwbina resident and an awardwinning writer. You can read more of his work at www.takenotewriting.com 21
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Are we Cardiff’s “Best Kept Secret”? Whether you are looking for a set of period solid brass fingerplates for a country mansion or a modern scandinavian classic for a city apartment, we have the largest selection of architectural ironmongery available anywhere in the UK. These high quality fittings, specified and installed on some of the country’s most prestigious period and modern buildings, are now available to trade and public customers. Visit our Cardiff Trade Centre on Pacific Business Park - Open Monday to Friday.
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St Michael’s College Cardiff FESTIVE FRIDAY LUNCHES Served in the College Servery Fridays 30 November, 6 &13 December 12.00—2.00pm
Book by calling 029 2056 3379
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For further information visit our newly designed website at www.stmichaels.ac.uk or contact St Michael’s College, 54 Cardiff Rd, Llandaff, Cardiff CF5 2YJ
Tel: 029 2056 3379
Serenade Cards and Gifts We wish you all a Peaceful Christmas and a Happy 2014. • Quality Greetings Cards • Gifts for all Occasions • Large Selection of Soft Toys • Demdaco Willow Tree • Party Balloons • Terramundi Money Pots
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13 Heol-y-Deri, Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 6HA Tel: 029 2052 2424
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Pet problems CHRIS TROUGHTON OF HEATH VETS ANSWERS YOUR PET-RELATED QUESTIONS
IF YOU HAVE ANY PET-RELATED QUESTIONS THAT YOU WOULD LIKE CHRIS TO ANSWER, PLEASE EMAIL US AT EDITOR@LIVINGMAGS.CO.UK AND WE’LL PASS THEM ON. We moved home two months ago and brought our 6 year old cat with us. She has always been a nervous cat (she came from the SHUA animal charity) but since our move she has been unable to toilet outside. We have gone back to using a litter tray as she was using our carpet. At our previous home she would go to the toilet just outside her cat flap in the gravel as she was too nervous to venture onto the grass. If you have any advice or tips we would be grateful. Nervous cats often take a long time to get over the trauma of moving home, and really you have only just arrived. It could easily take six months for a timid cat to settle in to a new home and garden territory, particularly if there are other cats in the neighbourhood. There are a few things you could do to help her. The cat-calming pheromone product “Feliway” is essential – use the room-diffuser form. Make the area you would like your cat to toilet in as easy to use as possible. It should be close to the cat flap, and you should make it secluded by having plenty of plants around it so she feels hidden when using it. The ground you want her to use should have a nice diggable surface – sand, compost or just well-dug earth. It is also worth investigating if she has a genuine reason to be fearful of going outside. Is there a neighbouring cat who bullies her? If so, you might be able to deter him from your garden by use of a water pistol, which will be unpleasant but harmless. In the end, you may have to accept that her timid nature might mean she always prefer to toilet indoors. If you force her to go out against her will, you will only make the situation worse. Page is sponsored by Heath Vets 02920 621511
We are planning on heading to Scotland to visit family over Christmas but I don’t want to leave my small dog (he’s only 6 months old) in a kennel. He’s only been in the car once when we originally brought him home but he was car sick. Is there anything I can do to prepare him for the journey in the car? Lots of puppies are a bit car-sick and seem to grow out of it, but some don’t. It is important to get all puppies used to travelling in the car as soon as possible even if they don’t need to use it often, because there will be times when it is unavoidable. If they are frightened of the car or sick when travelling, you need to start with short periods just sitting in a stationary car with the doors open, progressing on to short journeys with pleasant events at the end, like a walk in the park (rather than a visit to the vets!) It’s important not to progress too quickly so you don’t frighten the puppy or make him feel sick, as these feelings will themselves make him more worried about the car environment and exacerbate the problem. It’s also worth experimenting with where in the car he travels. Some dogs are much better in a covered crate in the car, where they feel safer and cannot see out of the windows; part of the cause of motion sickness is a mismatch between what you eyes are telling your brain (ie that you are moving rapidly) and what your balance system is telling it (ie that you are sitting still in the car). There are several treatments that can be used to help dogs with travelling. These include anti-anxiety products like Adaptil, a pheromone which you spray in the car, or various herbal remedies (which in my experience aren’t usually very effective). Then there are some powerful anti-nausea drugs that can be prescribed by your vet. It’s important to remember how unpleasant it is to feel nauseous, and that feeling can increase a dog’s aversion to the car, so it’s worth while doing everything you can to avoid him feeling ill.
Centenary Offer The Garden Village Garage Heol Y Deri, Rhiwbina, CF14 6HA Call Free 0333 121 2012 Returning old fashion service, back on to the high street…
The offer To celebrate 100 years of the Garden Village, we are happy to present our own Centenary offer, it includes :‣ ‣ ‣ ‣ ‣ ‣ ‣ ‣ ‣ ‣ ‣ ‣
Collection and delivery within CF14 Battery check and report Alternator check and report Lights check front and rear Tyre and tyre pressure check Brake inspection and video report Anti freeze/coolant check Windscreen wiper/washer check On line viewing Oil* and filter replacement Service upgrades available Clean car on return This offer is available to all CF14 residents up to and including 28th February, 2014 for the fee of £100 inclusive of Vat. There is no limit to the number of cars any one resident can present. *Terms and conditions apply.
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The Garden Village Garage
1A Heol Y Deri, Rhiwbina CF14 6HA Call for Free 0333 121 2012 Modern day cars are highly complex mechanical machines. They are relied upon for everyday life and are packed full of both technology and electronic gadgetry. Sadly, from time to time they let us down, mainly due to lack of maintenance. Breakdowns, cost both time and money neither of which is usually budgeted for! These unwelcome issues can be avoided with regular routine maintenance that can overall reduce the motorists cost. The importance of routine service can easily become overlooked but is essential for the longevity of your car. Your insurer too, will expect you to take "reasonable care of the goods" and to “keep your car in a road worthy condition.� Some insurance claims have recently been dismissed as a result of the motorist not acting on the advice of the service provider, as a result leaving motorists out of pocket, without their cars and at risk of prosecution. A service is like a visit to parents evening! The car is examined, road tested and reported on by a qualified technician. A series of reports, checks and recommendations are then made. In addition a change of oil and certain filters is made based on age or mileage related recommendations from the vehicle manufacturer. The idea behind the visit, is to assess and report on the cars current condition and when budget allows, return the car to its original manufacturers specification. The service report and any recommendations are made, then it is up to the customer to decide! We offer three levels of service, Bronze, Silver and Gold, they are priced accordingly. Every service includes change of oil and and a new oil filter, removal of all road wheels and comprehensive brake and tyre inspection to include video report and any recommendations. All video clips, where and when possible are emailed to the client for further understanding and authorisation. An engine flush and clean, all the under bonnet top ups and service checks are then completed. A review and report of timing belt recommendations and of course all cars are cleaned ready for return. Our silver service sees the replacement of air filter and an emission control service, whilst gold, the pinnacle service sees in addition the replacement of both cabin and fuel filters and a full electronic and management system diagnostic report Across the page is our latest service offer, book now before the winter grips your car!
Our transparent service style has seen us awarded 2013 top five dealer status for third time since 2010 via the independently audited Good Garage Scheme, our workshop is open and available for your viewing through several internet cameras.
Grot is back! Heather has once again, decided to sell grot in order to raise funds for the Christmas tree appeal. She is also hosting a grotto for the kids, Christmas decorations are needed so if you have any spare, these would be most welcome? For a limited time Grot will be available from within the shop. Any other donations would be gratefully welcomed.
Bootleg Beatles 4 December
Czech National Symphony Orchestra 18 November
Rachmaninov & Prokofiev BBC NOW 28 November
Ballet Season - Swan Lake, Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty
Tasmin Little Plays Szymanoski - BBC NOW 15 November
The Sixteen 13 December
Handel’s Messiah 9 December
Ruth Wall Lunchtime Concert 19 November
Katherine Jenkins 8 December
19 Dec - 5 Jan
Local News
News in the Community Lisvane and we did this as part of our taking our General Meetings ‘on the road’. I attended a meeting of the All Wales Neighbourhood Watch Group in Llandrindod Wells on Since my last article, we the 2nd October, and as a result have been very busy with of this meeting we will now be Neighbourhood Watch. working more closely with the It has been very busy on the Gwent Association. On the 5th “New Watch” front, with three October, I attended an Operation being set up in the Insole Court Perception in Danescourt, and Area - Llandaff, one in Ffordd on the 8th October, I manned Morganwg, Whitchurch and our stand at the ‘Cheese and two others in different parts of Crime’ evening which was held the city. Our General Meeting at the Western Leisure Centre, on 18th September in Lisvane Ely. As a result of this, I have also went very well, with an been asked to attend a meeting excellent talk and presentation in Michaelston on the 2nd on “Policing in the 21st December to help set up possibly Century” by Sgt Louise Lucas, several watches in that area. Station Sergeant for Llanishen. Our next big event is ‘Operation We had been invited to take Christmas Spirit’ which is on Neighbourhood Watch into 11th December and again we will be using a Mobile Police Station as our base, this time improving reception since 1979 in Queen Street between 9.15am and 12.15pm and For the design, supply and installation will be advising of aerial, satellite and internet TV services, members of the call your local Registered Digital public about Installer (RDI) security marking of their valuables. Mark Jones If any of you are interested in 07836 265259 setting up a watch in your area please contact your local Neighbourhood ID: 18266724 Policing Team or call our office on 02920 527301 and if I am in the office I will speak to you direct or, if not, please leave your contact 18 Twyn Y Fedwen, Whitchurch, Cardiff, CF14 1HU details and I will www.accurateaerials.com get back to you as Tel: 07836 265259 Email:accurateaerials@gmail.com soon as I can. NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH With Bill Farnham
AccurateAerials
ROLLING UP WITH RHIWBINA INDOOR BOWLS CLUB Formed in 1968, for many years, games of bowls in Rhiwbina were played on roll down/roll up carpets. However, the efforts of a working party of members in 1985 saw the provision of a permanent two-rink facility in the village. Both rinks come in at 66ft in length. In 2013, the rinks were upgraded with the installation of a new Greengauge carpet. The men play friendly matches with other clubs in South Wales, and have internal competitions and social events. The ladies play in the Welsh Ladies Indoor Short Green Bowling Association, where they have achieved success last season by coming top! Over the years, they have provided a number of players to represent Wales. Towards the end of each season, both clubs join forces to raise funds for a nominated charity. In recent years, these have included Cancer Research and Wales Air Ambulance among others. Over the years, the Club’s members have achieved many County and International honours. Idris Evans, a local baker, had the honour of becoming the first club member to represent his country. A warm welcome awaits new members. Call John Salaman on 02920 626539 (men) or Jill Pitt on 02920 843308 (ladies).
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recipes
s t a e r T e v E s a Christm The hustle and bustle is done. Everything’s ready for the big day. Kick your shoes off, put your feet up and usher in the Christmas season with a few home bakes. Perfect with a glass of mulled wine or hot drink.
Home-made Sausage Rolls olive oil 1 red onion, peeled and finely sliced 1 sprig of fresh sage, leaves picked 1 handful of breadcrumbs fresh nutmeg, for grating 6 high quality pork sausages 250 g ready-made puff pastry 1 free-range egg a little milk
1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC/350ºF/gas 4. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan and add the onions. Cook gently for about 20 minutes until soft and golden brown. Add the sage leaves, cook for a couple of minutes more and then spread out on a plate to cool. 2. With a sharp knife, slit the skins of the sausages and squeeze the meat out. Put it in a mixing bowl with the cooled sage and onion mix and the breadcrumbs, then scrunch well with your clean hands. Mix together well. 3. On a floured work surface, roll the pastry out into a big rectangle as thick as a pound coin and cut it lengthways into two long, even rectangles. Roll the mixture into sausage shapes with your hands and lay along the centre of each rectangle. 4. Mix the egg and milk and brush the pastry with the mixture, then fold one side of the pastry over, wrapping the filling inside. Press down with your fingers or the edge of a spoon to seal the join. Cut the long rolls into the sizes you want and space them out on a baking tray. Brush with the rest of
the egg wash and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until puffed, golden and cooked through. Serve with piccalilli or brown sauce
Mini Mince Pies
175g self-raising flour 100g light muscovado sugar 1 tsp mixed spice 175g softened butter 3 eggs 2 tbsp milk about 140g mincemeat icing sugar, for dusting 1. Heat oven to 190C/fan 170C/gas 5. Line 12 bun tins with paper cases. Put the flour, sugar, spice, butter, eggs and milk into a mixing bowl and beat with an electric hand whisk or wooden spoon for 2-3 mins, until the mix is light and fluffy. 2. Put a spoonful of cake mix in each case, then a rounded tsp of mincemeat. Cover the mincemeat with a spoonful of cake mix and smooth. 3. Bake for 15-18 mins until golden brown and firm. Dust with icing sugar and serve warm or cold.
Mini Wenallt Hills 32 mini meringues 300ml double cream 2 tbsp icing sugar, plus extra for dusting 16 tsp sweetened chestnut purée icing sugar, for dusting
Trim the tops off the mini meringues. Softly whip the double cream with the icing sugar and divide this between the meringues. Top each with ½ tsp sweetened chestnut purée and dust with icing sugar before serving.
Guest Columnists JAYNE COWAN
VILLAGE SHOPS, CAROLS AND A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS
C
hristmas is such a special season, and many events are planned throughout Rhiwbina. From Father Christmas visiting the children in Pantmawr or the Garden Village, to the much anticipated Winter Festival, Christmas Carols with a brass band in Y Groes to the shops brimming with special goods, Christmas is highly anticipated. This year has seen a lovely influx of new businesses into the village, which have been welcomed and supported by the residents. The injection of many independent businesses who
enter into the spirit of Christmas has really made a difference to Rhiwbina’s shopping experience, and I hope the support continues into 2014 and beyond. The local churches and schools are holding Christmas services, events and coffee mornings, with money being raised to support good causes. It is wonderful to have a community who work closely with the local organisations, clubs and societies to raise much needed funds. With all the efforts made by the shops, events by societies
and clubs and new decorations in the village, I think this Christmas will be magical! I will be regularly updating www.rhiwbinaward.co.uk but if you do not have access to E-Mail, please telephone 029 2062 7757 or 079 7001 3332. My ward colleagues Adrian Robson, Eleanor Sanders and I would like to take this opportunity of wishing the readers of Rhiwbina Living a very special festive period and a happy, healthy and prosperous 2014. Jayne Cowan
MARY CLARKE
NEW BIKES, DOLL’S PRAMS AND CHRISTMAS IN RHIWBINA
T
he phone rings. “When is Father Christmas coming?” To most people, that would mean the night of 24th December. But here in the Garden Village, it means ‘when is the sleigh coming to each road to deliver parcels to children?’ Together with an entourage of shepherds, clowns or whatever else the helpers decide to wear. A long-standing event, eagerly anticipated, tradition plays a big part of life here in Rhiwbina. The Winter Festival is now an event as big and as exciting as the Summer Festival, with entertainment for the children, late night opening for the shops, and carol singing around the magnificent dazzling tree. There is a selection of seasonal food available - mince pies, Welsh cakes and hot cawl. All this sets the mood for the main
event - the switching on of the Christmas Tree lights! The churches in Rhiwbina celebrate the birth of Jesus in traditional ways, with candlelight carols and carols around the crib and even carols out and about in the village. If you have an opportunity, go along and join in. Remember - this is what the Christmas celebration is all about. There’s something else very noticeable about Christmas time here in Rhiwbina - look around and see the holly wreaths, the red cyclamen, the strands of ivies, the mistletoe, the chopped fire wood, the snow shovels and the sledges. Well. You never know do? Meanwhile, the shops are full of sparkling Christmas cards, Santas, robins, choirboys, candles, gifts, novelties and chocolates. Take a walk around the streets in Rhiwbina and see
the spectacular gardens, the wonderful Christmas trees and the dazzling displays of window lights. I don’t know who enjoys them most - the children or the grown-ups! But that’s the thing about Christmas. It blurs the boundaries a little and we all feel like children again for the day. Boxing Day. Yes. It’s still Christmas. Rhiwbina comes outside again. New bikes to try out around the Parc. Doll’s prams to be shown off. Dogs to be walked and all that turkey and pudding to be burnt off. Whatever you do, however you celebrate, please remember something that Rhiwbina does well, not only at Christmas, but all year round - that is to give a thought to those who are on their own at this special time. Best wishes for a Happy Christmas. Mary Clarke
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