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RHIWBINA
Living
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Issue 27 Summer 2014
A garden, Some wine, Warm evenings, Summertime
FROM HEATH TO HOLLYWOOD:
My Acting Adventure
RHIWBINA ARTISTS:
Painting the Village
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16
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Welcome Croeso
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contents 3 5 8 13 16 21 25 27 29 30 31
News Letters lf Whitchurch Go Crufts Winners a Painting Rhiwbin Tiffany Ceri Pets’ Page Brian Conley ws Community Ne Recipes Column
RY THAT First things first. I’d like to apologies to my dog. TO S A E V A H U O DO Y When we first got little Buddy in early 2013, he RE WITH A H S TO E IK L ’D was barely a few months old. At the time, I was YOU under incredible stresses and working from home OUR READERS? was a nightmare, especially since and he was after constant attention We often get letters king as and there was an endless list of emails from people ws ne a things to clean up. it bm if they can su en ev He’s now maturing nicely into a or story, a feature sensible young man and looking recipes. ched back, I realise now that after he’d Since we first laun , 07 been taken away from his family, our magazines in 20 med co el I was all he had in life. I’m sorry w ably published we’ve more than ers and we’ve prob bute greatly to ad Buddy. re om fr k or w such contri We were enjoying the evening sun hundreds of them. We feel that they munity l , as wel as the com es in az ag m at Pontcanna Fields last night and r ou be of of the interest that you feel would via ng hi et m so ve we saw a guy chasing his dog. The dog ran off in the ha u spirit. So if yo ee to get in touch direction of someone else’s picnic, where he promptly interest to our readers, please feel fr below. stopped and did a large poop - right on their food! our contact details The owner was mortified. Buddy and I looked on, feeling rather smug. A moment to cherish together. So what have we got for you in this summer’s issue? Well, Jim Taverner and Jeff Davies have written a history of Whitchurch Golf Club, which celebrates its ardiff centenary this year. On page 13, we meet Rhiwbina’s ad, Rhiwbina, C Ro h c a tb n Pa 2 Crufts champions and on page 16, we hear from one of A: 22 CF14 6AG Rhiwbina’s newest additions - the Art Workshop. On 022920 081775 / 07974 2 77 07 T: page 21, Cardiff ’s Tiffany Ceri tells us about her move mags.co.uk E: editor@living from Heath to Hollywood and on page 27, we speak ags.co.uk W: www.livingm exclusively to the talented Brian Conley, who tells us publisher of the contents, the ing e the accuracyfor any way arisrigh sur in r en tte to ma de y ma an t en s be s, or about his time of living in Cardiff. contact any. copy ors or omission to err While every effortanha de for ty ma bili en nsi be po s res on ha cept y of this material. Every effort endent, apolitical publicati ac ot nn ca There’s plenty more to keep you reading. Enjoy the blication d Llandaff Living is an indep from the puitch an e for holders. Wh urch d copy deadlin summer and we’ll see you in the autumn (eek!) n a g n ki o o b g rtisin . Patric and Danielle (editors) Adve 15th August 2014 14. y a id Fr 28 e Issu ber 20 ion date - Septem Cover painting by Caitlin Murphy Issue 28 publicat 2 ar. ye a ished 4 times Rhiwbina Living
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RUMOURS OF NEW HOTEL FOR TONGWYNLAIS Rumours of a Holiday Inn taking over the Cardiff International Hotel are confirmed in a planning application.
LIVING MAGAZINES WRITER BAGS NATIONAL AWARD
Living Magazines columnist and contributor Alice Morgan scooped the ‘Best Writing on a Blog’ Award at last night’s Wales Blog Awards. Alice picked up her award at Chapter Arts Centre, where awards were handed out to the creators and writers of the best blogs in Wales. Alice told Living Magazines: “I’m absolutely thrilled to win this award. My blog started life as a hobby and it’s great to know that it’s been recognised by the judges.” Alice has been contributing features and articles to Living Magazines since their creation in 2007. Last year, she won the South Wales Echo Short Christmas Story competition and has just finished her final year at Royal Holloway University, London. Her ‘Best Writing on a Blog’ Award is the same prize that Living Magazines editor (and Alice’s big brother!) won at the last Wales Blog Awards in 2012. Judges were unaware of their sibling link until after the awards were announced. Warwick Emanuel PR set up the Wales Blog Awards in 2010 and organises them in conjunction with Media Wales. View Alice’s blog at www. alicemariarose.wordpress.com.
news
CAPTAIN SAM HONOURED BY LOCAL PUB
Former Whitchurch High School student and Wales rugby captain, Sam Warburton, has recently been honoured by a North Cardiff pub, who have named their refurbished function suite in his honour. The Deri Inn pub in Rhiwbina reopened its new suite, now called the ‘Sam Warburton Suite’ in March, and invited the man himself along to open it. The invitation-only event was hosted by Scrum V’s Phil Steele, who recounted hilarious stories from the recent British and Irish Lions Tour, before taking part in a Q&A with Sam. Sam spoke about his disappointment of the 2014 Six
DR WHO RETURNS Dr Who and his filming crew have returned to North Cardiff to begin filming the new series of the sci-fi favourite. Peter Capaldi, the new doctor, and his crew have been spotted filming an episode entitled ‘Robots of Sherwood’ that has been taking place in Fforest Fawr. Peter Capaldi is known for his role as Malcolm Tucker in the BBC comedy series The Thick of It, and its spin-off film In the Loop.
Nations campaign, what the Welsh team have learnt from it, and how they will be looking to develop on their summer tour to South Africa. He also provided inspiration to youngsters in the room who were looking to improve their game. Music was provided courtesy of Boycezone and the event was followed by a quiz night.
In 1995, he won the Academy Award for Live Action Short Film for Franz Kafka’s It’s a Wonderful Life, which he wrote and directed. He has also won two BAFTA Awards, and two British Comedy Awards.
Photograph courtesy of @fourfreckles
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news
SQUIRRELS TRIUMPH TO BECOME CHAMPIONS OF DIVISION
Rhiwbina Squirrels have lifted the Division 2 East trophy after a home thrashing of Abercynon. The win came soon after narrowly missing out on the SWALEC Plate in a dramatic Finals Day clash with Merthyr RFC at the Millennium Stadium. The Squirrels romped home to a stunning 57–15 victory over Abercynon, and marked a welcome return to winning form for the side just two weeks after losing 26-29 in the SWALEC Plate final. The Squirrels have suffered only three defeats all season, and the experience of lifting the cup is testament to their hard work and perseverance as a team. Head Coach, Gareth Linten told the press: “Almost a year ago we started pre-season, and now here we are having won the league – it’s fantastic. In that time, we’ve also played at the Millennium Stadium at SWALEC Finals Day which was a really tough ask, but it was the highlight of the season for us. The atmosphere
was amazing, and it’s something we’ve never previously done.” Players’ Awards were also recently announced at the end of what the Squirrels are calling their greatest-ever season: 1st XV Players’ Player of the Season: Jamie deAbreu Supporters’ Player of the Season: Dave Smith Best Newcomer: Sean Darlow Coaches’ Awards Player of the Season: Gareth McCarthy Most Improved Player: Sion Summers 2nd XV Player of the Season: Tom Wright 3rd XV Player of the Season: Roy Pesticcio Youth XV Player of the Season: Ryan Stacey
JOIN THE CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS The sun was shining on Rhiwbina Recreation Club as it kicked off its centenary celebrations. The Chairman of the club opened the recent Family Fun Day which included an excellent variety 4
of stalls, live music, a disco and even a bucking bronco machine! The celebrations will continue over the summer with a black tie event on July 12th. There will be champagne on arrival, a three
course dinner, afterdinner comedian, live music and a fully licensed bar. Tables are a maximum of 10 people at £30 per person. Tickets are available from www. rhiwbinarecreation club.co.uk
RHIWBINA SET FOR SUMMER FESTIVAL This year’s Summer Festival will take place on Saturday 5th July. More details can be found at www.rhiwbina.co.uk
LOWER MACHEN FESTIVAL Lower Machen Festival is set to delight South Wales music lovers this June. Based in one of the smallest villages in South Wales, Lower Machen (less than 10 miles from North Cardiff ) is rural – just nineteen houses (no shop, not even a pub!) with an incomparably beautiful small church, blessed with a perfect acoustic. The majority of this year’s concerts take place in St Michael and All Angels’ Church, Lower Machen, a church dating back to the 12th century, but the festival also has a strong relationship with The Riverfront, Newport. There are events that provide something for all ages. Their aim is to bring the highest possible quality of music-making in an atmosphere that brings together what a member of their audience recently described as “a unique atmosphere, in which setting and music complement each other perfectly – the ideal way to spend a summer’s evening.” Tickets start at just £1 for children and students and can be booked via Ticketsource by phone on 0844 8700 887 and online www.ticketsource.co.uk/ machen. For further information please visit www.lowermachenfestival. 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
HOWZAT?
letters
Rhiwbina Pines Cricket Club is based in Cardiff and we try to play cricket with a smile on our faces. The club was the idea of a group of cricket-loving friends who used to meet for a curry in Rhiwbina. Now several years later, we play in the Willow League (midweek) in Cardiff and also enjoy occasional weekend
matches including a mini-tour. Enjoyment and friendship is the most important thing but we do try to win! Players of all abilities, ages (18+) and waistlines are welcome. Drop us a line using rhiwbinapinescricket@gmail.com you fancy joining us. www.rhiwbinacc.wordpress.com RHIWBINA PINES CRICKET CLUB, RHIWBINA
‘WHY ARE YOU ALL MOANING?’ There has been a lot of negative press and indeed a lot of stress surrounding the changes to the 21 and 23 buses that have now been implemented by Cardiff Bus. Over the last few months, I have been keeping my eye on the arguments for and against the changes. To my eye, these changes seem to be fairly unpopular. But after making my views known to a fellow Cardiff Bus passenger last month, he turned to me and asked me “What are you all moaning about?” I was taken aback by this question. It turned out that this passenger was from another part of the city where they have a service into town every 20 minutes. So in answer to my fellow passenger, and to anyone else who asks as to what we are all moaning about, here are some of our problems: • Buses are often overcrowded at peak times. Not only is this uncomfortable, but it is also leaving a lot of passengers confused. I heard on the grapevine that one of
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the drivers, trying to come to terms with the new changes, told a passenger who was trying to get to Whitchurch, that they should get on a Rhiwbina bus and change at Gabalfa. Pantmawr residents have had a rough deal. They are left with just one bus an hour in either direction, both buses crossing within minutes of each other. Pantmawr has been effectively cut off from the rest of the city. At a time when the economic downturn should be pushing up its roots from within the local communities, it’s the local businesses in Whitchurch that are most likely feeling the pinch. Who would want to take a day out to the village from other areas if there is so much confusion? The public transport needs to be clear, consistent and concise. It’s not and people have plenty of other suburbs to visit if they are unsure how to get to ours. The individuals who seem to be clobbered the hardest are the elderly and vulnerable. I was told by the chap who asked ‘why are you moaning?’ that all of us here in Whitchurch, and also
Rhiwbina Pines are welcoming new members
Rhiwbina, won’t be affected because we’re ‘better off and all have cars’. Poppycock. Cardiff Bus themselves have admitted that the services in question have been slashed because of the high numbers of people who are using their passes on this route. While I understand that Cardiff Bus is a business, and as a result, needs to be run as one, the new arrangements have the whiff of neglect about them. They seem to be poorly-thought out with no regard for the passengers who actually use the service. What will happen is that these passengers will be forced to rely less and less on public transport, turning instead to other forms of mobility. Traffic and congestion will increase and our patience will be tested even more! M. HUGHES Whitchurch 5
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In 2012 I met Lee Bryce at St David’s Hotel in Cardiff Bay. Lee outlined his vision for his new estate agency. He painted a picture of a bold, dynamic company that was service-led and had a strong connection with the Cardiff community. We meet eighteen months on – has Lee achieved his goal?
Finding Homes for Locals
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aving recently opened their new office on Beulah Road, Cardiff Residential Estates are now looking to continue with their exceptional service and to further grow their brand across Cardiff. Director Lee Bryce told Living Magazines: “Our presence is really growing in the village and across Cardiff. People are beginning to see the benefits of our bespoke approach to buying and selling houses. “As part of our continued expansion, we are delighted to welcome Julian Preston to the team as our new Sales Director. Julian’s experience and passion for property will only enhance our service further and we are pleased that he will be joining us. “Julian is someone I have always thought would be an excellent addition to our team and essential to our continued growth. We’ve worked together previously and achieved great success.” Julian is thrilled to be on board, adding: “We work very well together and the opportunity to become part of the continuing success of Cardiff Residential Estates was something very appealing to me. We will continue with our community focus by offering an unrivalled and bespoke service to all our clients.” He added: “We will also continue our
support for worthy causes too - we donate 10% of all our completed sales fees to the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Wales and we’re very proud to be the Under 10s (boys and girls) team sponsor of the Heath Park Rangers for the 2013/14 season.” In its short time so far, Cardiff Residentials has really grown into a business that sets itself apart. Lee has learnt to juggle with a new arrival in the household as well as develop his business: “As a family business we understand the demands of people’s day-to-day commitments of work and family. Free time is very special to us all so we’ve created a service that operates outside of normal office hours - we offer appointments from 7am to 10pm. This fits in well with our clients’ lifestyles. “Our website contains plenty of testimonials to the quality of our service - customer satisfaction is at the very core of what we do. As part of our offering, we guarantee the best selling rates across Cardiff - we’ve already sold right over the city and into Penarth. We hope that more of the Rhiwbina community will also benefit from the potential cost savings we can offer.” Cardiff Residential Estates Operating 7 days a week 029 2061 7885 homes@cardiffresidential.com
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history
Gwrach -yRhibyn
A short story by Whitchurch novelist Rhys Thomas
Whitchurch Golf Club celebrates its centenary this year. Jeff Davies and Jim Taverner tell the story of the club from its humble beginnings to an established Welsh sporting venue
J
uly 2014 marks the centenary of Whitchurch Golf Club. A report in the Western Mail on the 5th May 1912 was headed: “First Meeting called to form a Golf Club at Whitchurch 3rd May 1912. Proposal for eighteen hole course.” The report is very comprehensive and is as follows: “A decision to form a golf course on democratic lines for Whitchurch was adopted at an enthusiastic meeting held on Monday night. The Rev T Ewbank, who presided, made a gratifying announcement that Mr Herbert Thomas, one of the owners of the Melin Griffith Tinplate Works, was prepared to advance a loan of £100 to establish a good golfing course in the district. Mr Thomas was so confident that a golf course would meet with hearty support that he thought it advisable to start with an eighteen-hole course. The meeting decidedly favoured
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the suggestion and Mr Hubert Walker who has prominently identified himself with the movement, said they had two sites in view. One was at Wenallt near the Deri Farm and the other on the Graig. The meeting having declared its unanimous feeling in favour of a club being formed, it was decided to call the club The Whitchurch Golf Club.” It took a further two years to find suitable land. Eventually it became known that Rhiwbina Garden Village had relinquished an option held on Pentwyn Farm for building purposes. This land became the first nine holes of Whitchurch Golf Club. In 1922, a further 45.25 acres of land were bought adjoining Pant Mawr Road and Rhiwbina Hill and this led to the creation of an 18 hole course and secured the future of the Club. The members travelled to the course either on foot or bicycle with their golf bag and clubs slung across their back.
Occasionally a more privileged member arrived on one of those ‘horseless carriages’ called motor cars. Many people must have used the train and tram system and it is interesting to note that stations were close to Whitchurch, Llanishen and Radyr golf clubs. Members today cannot begin to imagine what it must have been like to set up and run a Golf Club. There were no guidebooks, no one had any relevant experience and even the experience of golf professionals was very limited. The clubhouse had a thatched roof, there was a garden and stables, no electric or gas and toilet facilities were very primitive. These early members must have been unbelievably enthusiastic and energetic because these were not going to be easy times. World War 1 ended in 1918, and was followed by a period of great social change culminating
with the General Strike of 1926 and the descent into the great depression of the 30’s. It is interesting to note that the AGM or any other member meetings were held at the Church Hall in Whitchurch as the size of the Clubhouse and its facilities at this time were so primitive. Over the 100 years facilities have constantly been improved. Its roof was thatch and when work commenced to replace the thatch nests of insects were disturbed and the clubhouse became infested. The Sanitary Inspector was called in to make a thorough examination of the clubhouse. He reported that it should be fumigated and closed for three days. This exercise had to be repeated two weeks later and the clubhouse was fumigated for a third time before the problem was removed. During World War II, a large area of the course was used to grow vegetables to combat the U Boat threat. Rationing continued following the war and the course was not reopened as an 18 hole course until 1950. The layout of the course remains largely the same today as it did when the first nine holes opened in 1915 and the 18 holes in April 1923. A testimony to the skill of Fred Johns (the first golf professional who served the Club for 42 years) and Mr Marjoram (golf professional Radyr) who visualized and then created, with only the aid of horse drawn machinery and much muscle power, a course that perfectly complemented the contours of the land. The only significant change since those early days being on the 4th and 18th holes due to the construction of the Whitchurch by-pass and the widening of Pantmawr Road. It is a pleasure to play/walk the course and members thank the ground staff over the years for helping to make a course they can be really proud of. It is no accident that Whitchurch Golf Club has hosted the 1975 Welsh Professional Championship (winner, Craig Defoy), 1978 Welsh Professional Championship (winner, Brian Huggett), 1986
Welsh Professional Championship (winner, Ian Woosnam), 1990 Girls British Open Championship, 1990 British Girls Home International Championship, 2007 Welsh Ladies Open Championship, 2008 Welsh Boys Championship, 2010 Ladies Home International Championships and the 2012 Welsh Girls Championship. The course is wonderful to look at yet represents a challenge to play. In 2005, 2006, and 2008, Whitchurch Golf Club won the award of best golf club in Wales in Bloom. Also in 2008, it was recognised by ‘Welsh Club Golfer’ as being the best inland golf course in Wales. The golf course is a refuge for a huge variety of wildlife and the existence of public footpaths enables the public to enjoy sections of the course, with each season providing its own beauty. Such a lovely green area in Rhiwbina is something that brings benefit to all who live in the area. During the 60’s and the early part of this century, developers were extremely keen to purchase the course for housing. On both occasions the membership soundly rejected their offer. The standard of golf played by the Whitchurch mens and ladies teams over the years has been very high with both men and ladies teams winning the Welsh Team Championships on many occasions. Players have also represented Wales at junior and senior level. One current member, Nigel Edwards, was not only capped by Wales but played in four Walker Cup matches against the USA in 2001, 2003, 2005 and 2007, being on the victorious side on two occasions. Following his victory in 2003 the headline in The Times on the 8th September read “Edwards emerges as the best man to see off USA challenge.” Levine Mair of the Daily Telegraph wrote “Edwards’ 60ft putt from the front of the
history
Fore! 17th green was one which will assuredly go down among the most famous Welsh sporting feats of all time.” Praise indeed. He has also had the distinction of being Captain of the Walker Cup team on two occasions and being victorious at Royal Aberdeen in 2011. In January 2014 he was selected to be Captain for the third time for the match to be played at Royal Lytham and St Annes in 2015. Although the fortunate few are blessed with a talent to play at the highest level, the majority of club golfers are there to enjoy the sport, the course and comradeship. The Club in addition to a full competition calendar has a very active social calendar and welcomes new members. The Ladies Section, who have made an important contribution to the life of the Club since its inception, in addition to producing excellent individual golfers and teams, have their own very busy social calendar. Monday night is Junior Night and it is a pleasure to see boys and girls learning how to play this great game. It is important that as many youngsters as possible are given the opportunity to learn to play. Whitchurch Golf Club in its centenary year is, through its golf professional Peter Hayward, reaching out to local schools providing free coaching. Playing golf for juniors is not as expensive as you think. For juniors between 8-9 years membership is £40 and for those between 10-12 years £90. For further details contact Peter Hayward on 07733233913 or email at petethepro@hotmail. co.uk
This article is taken from the Centenary book written by Jeff Davies and Jim Taverner. The book will be published in October 2014.
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Rhiwbina’s World Cup Winners
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wo North Cardiff residents were part of a recent World Cup winning team at Crufts. Gill Walker and her daughter Nikki were part of the Welsh team who triumphed at the famous international dog show in March. “I came into obedience training quite late. I’d had a chocolate labrador as a pet.” says Rhiwbina resident Gill. “We went to obedience classes and ‘got the bug’. Then we got Brae, another labrador – so we started training him as a puppy. He’s 7 years old now and has worked his way up through the shows. He was selected to be a ‘novice’ dog in this year’s Inter-regional team.” Cruft’s Inter-regional competition on the Thursday is divided into five different classes – Beginners, Novice, Class A, Class B and Class C. “This year’s show at Crufts was so exciting. I even got my nails done with paw prints and a Welsh flag on them! “We had some great dogs in our team – we had a wonderful Rhodesian Ridgeback in our
beginners classification. My dog Brae was teamed up with a black German Shepherd in the Novice group. My daughter Nikki was with her black Labrador in Class A, along with a lovely collie called Tyler. Class B was represented by a Belgian Shepherd Dog and our Class A dog was a Golden Retriever.” “We won the Inter-regionals that day. We were thrilled.” said Gill. But there was more to come. On the Sunday, the Welsh team scooped the biggest prize of them all – the World Cup. Team manager Jen Jessop was delighted. “I’ve been involved with dogs since the mid-1970s. I was invited to become Assistant Manager to the Wales team in the late 1990s. I have competed in three InterRegionals with my dogs, and was in the first
World Cup Competition in 2008 and I was invited by the Kennel Club to judge the Obedience Championships in 2013. But this year’s competition was very special – and two of our team came from Rhiwbina!” Gill added: “It’s wonderful to show that Rhiwbina has some great pedigree when it comes to dogs.” said Gill “The village has some wonderful dogs – I’ve lived here since I was 2 years old so it’s nice to be part of that community!”
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Drawing the Best of Rhiwbina
S
tarting a venture can be a daunting prospect but in just over a year, two enterprising mothers have turned a disused shop unit in Rhiwbina, North Cardiff, into a thriving educational centre teaching fine art to the public. A love of Art and a drive to run their own business were the two elements that enabled Genevieve Loxton and Martha Lowry to take the plunge and open their studio, The Art Workshop in Rhiwbina’s Lon Fach, a picturesque lane just off the main shopping area of Heol y Deri. “We just wanted to give anyone the chance to learn about Art,” explained Genevieve. “It’s a subject that so many people are fascinated by. Art holds a lot of mysteries, whether it’s the technical side, how paint and other materials work, or the more creative side, the ideas, inspiration and meanings.” “Picasso said the purpose of Art is “washing the dust of daily life off our souls,” and I think that rings true for a lot of us. People who come to us want to expand their horizons and learn something new, and they tell us that they like getting involved in something creative that transports them out of the daily routine.” The Workshop offers classes in various kinds of painting, drawing, printmaking and sculpture, with a team of tutors who work to create a supportive and productive environment. It’s one of the few centres in the area able to teach Oil painting, and is
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regularly adding new courses for adults and children. When Genevieve and Martha first opened in January 2013 they had just a couple of students. “The first to sign up was a lady called Janet, who called in before we’d even opened and paid for a full course on the spot. She was determined to resume drawing, which she’d given up years before. She later told us she was 90, but we never would have guessed her age!” said Martha. It was an exciting but nervewracking first month; the pair set up the business in the hope that it would work but they admit they weren’t really sure how many people would come. But then word started to spread and they were able to add more classes to the week. In its first full year, over a hundred people attended courses and the Workshop’s student body continues to grow with nine classes a week and people of all ages and abilities. “And Janet still comes every Thursday for drawing, and produces some of the weeks’ most accomplished work - she is very special to us.” said Martha. The Workshop operates in a building full of character, a former coach house with open beams and original windows. “The beamed ceiling reminded us of a 17th century artist’s workshop, a little like Rembrandts house and studio in Amsterdam.” said Genevieve. The workshop had been empty for a while but they could see its potential and they liked the idea
of working close to home and family, in a village like Rhiwbina with so much personality, and on the edge of the historic Garden Village. “We wanted people to feel at home so they could gain confidence to try new things. We make it warm and friendly in here, not arty and aloof; everyone is offered a cup of tea or coffee when they come, and students often bring biscuits and cake to share, the classes are fun as well as educational.” explained Genevieve. Both working artists, Genevieve and Martha trained for four years on the degree course at Cardiff School of Art and Design, and graduated with first class honours. Genevieve specialised in painting, and Martha in Sculpture and 3D design. “We both came to the degree course later in life as mature students. The Cardiff degree was an inspiration, it taught us so much: about how to learn, and about how to solve artistic problems especially by studying the work and lives of other artists.” The pair realised how lucky they were to have been able complete their studies before the UK-wide rise in fees at Universities. A four year course is out of reach for many people with family commitments, mortgages and all the expenses of normal life. And now with undergraduate fees starting at £9,000 a year, even fewer mature students are able to take that path. This led to the idea for the Workshop. “We wanted to give everyone
in the village
an opportunity to learn about Art, but without the burden of committing to an expensive degree. We offer courses that include Art History, discussion of themes and ideas, as well as practical training in a variety of Art disciplines. We think that we add a lot of value to our courses and we put a lot of work into their design so people develop their skills and their thinking through learning with us.” The Workshop appeals to all sorts of people from different backgrounds, professionals, the self-employed, health workers, engineers, architects, teachers, local government workers, and its students range from complete beginners to graphic designers and professional artists. “They all bring their different perspectives and that experience adds a lot to each group’s understanding. It makes for some really interesting discussions in class.” added Genevieve. “The work they produce in class is often of a really high standard, but we aim to make sure everyone produces something they can be satisfied with, whatever their level, and help them to stretch their ideas and adapt to new techniques.” After many requests from parents, the Workshop started additional classes for children in the popular After School Art Academy, which runs mid-week for 6 to 11 year olds. This then led to another strand of the business. “Some of the children then asked to have their birthday parties with us, so at weekends we have started providing “Arty Parties”, with balloons, banners and music, and lots of fun art.” said Martha, who devises the After School Academy courses. The Workshop has also
collaborated with other organisations to help expand their course content. The National Museum and Gallery of Wales in Cardiff came on board to provide a host of animal specimens from mammals to reptiles for a course on drawing animals. “They even let us use a stuffed crocodile, which went down really well especially in the children’s classes!” said Martha. Cardiff University School of Medicine were also happy to help and lent the Workshop a real skeleton for anatomy classes, vital in helping students understand how to draw the human figure. Being part of the Rhiwbina community is central to everyone involved with The Art Workshop. They agreed to take on the challenge of the first Lantern Parade at the Rhiwbina Christmas Festival where Martha and Genevieve spent their evenings hand-making hundreds of paper lanterns for children to carry on the route, and Martha designed giant animal lanterns that featured in the local papers. In the busy summer festival, Martha and Genevieve persuaded the crowds to sit down at outside tables and draw their own faces, which led to a giant display of postcardsized self portraits. The Workshop also hosts regular exhibitions, usually showcasing students work. “We love being in Rhiwbina, it’s now a vibrant village with great shops and cafes and we have found that it’s full of interesting
people who have a genuine desire to learn about art, we want to make sure they have the chance to do so.” said Genevieve. You can sign up for drawing, painting and sculpture classes at any time. Each course follows the school term calendar and students pay by the term. Private tutoring and sketchbook development for those studying GCSE, A level and for Foundation entry is also available by arrangement. For more information you can contact the Art Workshop on 07561 507638, email theartworkshop@live.co.uk, and see more information their website www.theartworkshop. co.uk. They are on Facebook , and Twitter @theartworkshop2. You can pop in to see them at 3 Lon Fach, Rhiwbina, down the lane by Morgan Lloyd Williams estate agents and near to the
Wendy House. Classes run most days, and the Art Workshop also sells a range of good quality Artist’s materials.
Photo of Genevieve and Martha by Sarah Barnes Photography
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Living the dream in LA LA Land Despite currently being in Los Angeles, Cardiff-born Tiffany Ceri is still auditioning for acting roles back in the UK by self-taping. “It’s such an easy way of putting yourself out there whilst being hundreds of miles away from the audition room. It’s so amazing being able to self-tape auditions as it means you don’t have to miss out on audition opportunities whilst pursuing other commitments!” Tiffany has recently left Welsh shores to further her acting career in the US. She’s been keeping a weekly blog, in which she reports of her past week’s news and funny stories. It is quickly becoming a popular read, both for her followers and amongst other actors. “I’m so busy. As well as acting, I’m writing poetry and working on writing a mini-series, which I hope
people
Cardiff’s Tiffany Ceri has flown to LA to follow her dreams. Here, she talks about her move to the States
to direct and produce later this year. “It’s based on a group of actors in Hollywood who are trying to make the big time, but their jealousies and insecurities seem to inhibit their desires to succeed.” Despite having only been in LA for there months, Tiffany has already managed to secure a management deal with Harris Management who are ‘thrilled to have Tiffany on board!’. “I love the passion and enthusiasm associated with actors in LA. Everyone is so focused and positive.” she says. “I’ve adapted well to the LA lifestyle - the healthy food, plus the hot yoga classes I now participate in - it’s really helping to keep me focused and on track with my career. They are a way of getting rid of negative
energies and keeping a clear, open mind.” It’s clear that this actress has big ambitions and is keeping extremely busy and proactive. She has recently finished filming her latest feature film ‘The Midnight Horror Show’, in which she starred as Jenny Calderwood. The film is set for release this summer in the UK through distributor 4Digital Media, and in North America and Canada through Hannover House. It will also be released in some UK cinemas, before being released on domestic and international DVD, as well as some digital formats. “The UK is fantastic for theatre but I think that there are so many more opportunities for actors in TV and film in LA. Actors in LA are constantly taking classes to learn new things. I also really like the fact that there is such positivity in America.” LA has been a welcome change for Tiffany. “The opportunities here are so great and there is always so much going on. Whether you are auditioning, networking, watching a live TV taping or going along to live stand up and open mic nights, there is always something fun and exciting to do. That’s what I love most about LA. “Oh, and the Cheesecake Factory!” You can follow Tiffany’s blog at: www.tiffanyceri.wordpress.com
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RHIWBINA TODDLER CLASSES NOMINATED IN NATIONAL CHILDREN’S AWARDS SCHEME
The nominees for the prestigious What’s On 4 2014 Junior Awards in association with Drayton Manor have just been announced - and Annie Harding and the French for toddlers business she runs in Rhiwbina is amongst them! Annie is the first teacher to bring the Frenchtastic way of learning French to Wales. Born and brought up in Cardiff, with a French mother and Welsh father, she grew up speaking French in their bilingual home, and spent every school holiday with her extended family in France. Following the success of the launch of the first ever Frenchtastic programme in Wales in January 2014, demand for classes has been so great that the Rhiwbina classes launched in March now offers under 3’s fun and interactive sessions to bring the language to life and inspire little learners. Classes combine traditional songs and nursery rhymes in French, drama and games using brightly coloured scarves, a parachute, animal hand puppets, balls and all manner of props to engage and excite the children. “I’m delighted to be the first Frenchtastic teacher in Wales and thrilled to have been nominated for these awards by the parents who attend my classes. Research has shown that the younger a child starts a language then the greater their linguistic ability will be later in life. I have certainly witnessed children leaving nursery with an amazing level of
LLANDAFF CATHEDRAL CHOIR Llandaff Cathedral Choral Society is celebrating the start of summer with a concert of Choral Favourites at the Cathedral on Saturday 17th June (7.30pm). The concert includes Haydn’s elegant Little Organ
French for their age.” What’s On 4 Awards programme is now in its eighth year and celebrates the best activities, classes, people and places throughout the country, nominated and voted for by the experts - parents, carers and parents-to-be. Annie Harding and Frenchtastic, have been nominated by the parents who attend her classes in an impressive 3 categories and will now go through to the national voting stage. “This year, the awards are bigger than ever, covering 22 different categories and there’s been a 30% increase in the number of nominees so to get this far is a great achievement!” she added. The winners will be announced at the live award ceremony on Friday 20th June. During the champagne ceremony, the winners of the community awards will also receive special prizes for their groups. To bring this successful fun learning to even more children in Cardiff, Frenchtastic is offering FREE taster sessions, to register your interest contact Annie Harding on 07866 522 266 or annie@frenchtastic.co.uk.
Lesson Times and Locations Monday 10am Bambeans, Cowbridge Road East, Canton CF5 1JD. Tuesday 10am Café Junior, Fanny Street, Cathays CF24 4EH Tuesday 1.30pm Canolfan
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Beulah, Beulah Road, Rhiwbina CF14 6LX Friday 10am Bambeans, Cowbridge Road East, Canton CF5 1JD. Friday 1.15pm Funky Little Chickens, Lamby Way, Rumney, CF3 2EQ. Classes are £4.50 a week for one child and £7.50 for two children from the same family plus each child gets a FREE taster class. For more information or to book a free taster class, contact Annie on 07866 522 266 or annie@ frenchtastic.co.uk
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Mass, Monteverdi’s glorious Beatus vir, and Vivaldi’s majestic setting of the Gloria. The Society is one of the oldest choirs in Wales, having just celebrated its 75th anniversary. It has over one hundred members and gives three concerts per year at the Cathedral. Plans for the remainder of 2014 include
concerts in the Cathedrals of Bruges and Ghent, and a performance of Verdi’s Requiem in Cardiff in November. Tickets are priced at £8 and £12 (with concessions) and can be obtained from Garlands of Llandaff (02920563121) or via the Society website (www. llandaffcathedralchoralsociety. org.uk). 23
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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. I have a 3 year old bulldog. I feed her twice a day (wet food and kibble) but some of my family have pointed out that she seems to be getting a bit plump. Personally, I don’t think she is but I’m worried that I haven’t noticed the weight gain as I see her every day. Is there any quick way of telling if she is overweight?
I think you should take notice of your family – as you say, you might not notice your dog’s gradual weight gain. The best plan is to assess your dog’s ‘Body Condition Score’. All dogs should have a welldefined body shape, with a waistline that is clearly visible from above and the side, and ribs which are easily felt when you stroke her, but which don’t stick out. There are useful charts on our website to help you judge the ‘Body Condition Score’ of both dogs and cats (www.heathvets.co.uk; click the “Advice services” tab). The breed standard weight for Bulldog bitches is 23kg. However, comparing your bitch’s weight to this may well be unhelpful, as the breed varies quite a lot in body size. Unfortunately, Bulldogs are a breed that often do get overweight, partly because they are not usually very energetic, and partly because many owners like to see them ‘rounded’. Feeding twice daily is quite common, and suits many pets and owners. However, it’s easy to be a little too generous with the portions, so you need to be disciplined. The better quality dog food ranges all have ‘light’ versions with lower calorie levels, and these can be helpful in maintaining a healthy body shape.
a toothpaste designed for pets). Even at this stage of her life, you may be able to get her to accept toothbrushing and I’m sure the staff at your local vets will be able to give you advice on how to achieve this. However, if brushing is not going to be possible, there are other measures that may help. Chewing her food will help to abrade the tooth surface and clean it – so soft textured tins or pouches are unhelpful. Hard crunchy biscuits are not much better – you need a biscuit with more ‘bite’ to it. Several manufacturers make biscuits with dental hygiene claims – perhaps ask your vet’s advice. There are also additives for the water that help prevent plaque sticking to the teeth, and other food additives. The claims made for some products are more believable than others!
I have a friend who bathes her dog twice a week (sometimes more). Is it natural for dogs to be bathed so much? I bathe my dog about once a month and doesn’t seem unduly dirty as a result. Who is right?
Some dogs get dirty or smelly much quicker than others – and some owners’ noses are more sensitive than others! You can actually bath your dog as often as you like, and I often advise people that they should bath their dog when he’s dirty or smells. The more frequently you bath your dog, the more careful you have to be about the shampoo you use. For frequent bathing, you should be using a hypoallergenic shampoo and probably a conditioner afterwards. Needless to say, we are talking here about dogspecific products – it’s not a good idea to use human products as they are not formulated for the canine skin. When you bath a dog using a shampoo, you remove natural protective oils from his coat, which will then be less waterproof, so you may need to provide him with a coat for inclement weather if you bathe often.
Do cats need their teeth cleaned and if so, how on earth am I going to manage it? I’ve seen toothbrushes and toothpaste for sale in pet shops but I know for a fact that my moggie would let me know in no uncertain manner that she won’t want them cleaned! Some surveys have estimated that as many as 85% of cats over 3 years of age have some form of dental disease, so the message has to be, yes, she should have them cleaned. However, it’s not an easy task, as even the best behaved cat has a small mouth and access can be difficult. It’s best to start young, as a kitten, and train your cat to have daily toothbrushing followed by a reward (using Page is sponsored by Heath Vets 02920 621511
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St John’s College, Cardiff: Top School in Wales in The Sunday Times ‘Parent Power’
St John’s College is once more delighted to have been ranked top school in Wales in The Sunday Times ‘Parent Power’ (2013), based on combined GCSE and A Level performance. The College’s stunning 2012 ESTYN Inspection report graded the school ‘Excellent’, including the enviable and seldom awarded ‘Excellent’ grade for teaching of quality, and observed that: “Throughout the school, there is a very strong sense of purpose, and a collective ownership and commitment to shared values and aims. The relentless
emphasis on high expectations, particularly in the quality of teaching and learning has led to exceptional outcomes for pupils of all abilities.” (2012 Estyn Crown Copyright). A remarkable number of their most successful Maths and Science students, often proceeding to medical school and the most competitive university courses, are also diploma standard musicians. Triumph in Public Speaking Congratulations to the Intermediate and Senior public speaking teams of St John’s College who progressed through the Cardiff finals of Rotary Youth Speaks 2014 to reach the Wales District Final at the Urdd Theatre of the Wales Millennium Centre in March. In a tightly fought contest against 18 schools from across Wales, St John’s College came away triumphant, not only winning the Senior competition, but also being judged runners-up in the Intermediates. Added to the sixth formers’ achievement of reaching the
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Regional Final of The Cambridge Union Schools Debating Competition in recent months, this has been an exceptional year for public speaking and debating at St John’s College. Chess Mega Final St John’s College Chess Club continues to flourish, with a host of nationally-ranked players across the age range. Last weekend, St John’s College welcomed 150 pupils from across South Wales for the annual Mega Final, and its pupils won trophies for coming first in the boys’ and girls’ under 7 category and the boys’ under 13 category. A remarkable total of eight St John’s College pupils now progress through to the UK Giga Final later this summer. For further information about the school or to arrange a visit, please contact Admissions: Tel: 02920 778 936 Email: admin@ stjohnscollegecardiff.co.uk
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Top School in Wales in The Sunday Times ‘Parent Power’ Stunning Estyn Inspection Report including the seldom awarded ‘Excellent’ for Standards of Teaching
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people
BRIAN CONLEY: I Lived in Grangetown
“
I wasn’t good at anything in school. English and Maths were my worst three subjects.” says star of screen and stage, Brian Conley. “That’s a joke by the way. That bit there about the three subjects. You can have that one.” he adds quickly. Brian Conley has become a household name in the UK, but his career started way back to his early years. “I was dyslexic and throughout my childhood, I didn’t know what was wrong with me. To combat it, I’d try and make people laugh. My father had a strong singing voice and I’ve always been convinced that I was born to sing too. The first ever song I learnt was Santa Lucia and there was a lot of opera sung around our house. Because I liked to entertain people, I got myself into a show called the Yeoman of the Guard. My mother was told to nurture my talent so she put me in a stage school. We had a Welsh teacher, Mrs Davies who I met again many years later when I was caught by Michael Aspel for This Is Your Life. Today, Brian is one of the UK’s most versatile and popular performers. He has become a household name thanks to such diverse characters as Dangerous Brian, Nick ‘It’s a puppet!’ Frisby, Doug Digby and the legendary Al Jolson. Born and raised in Paddington, London, Brian studied Performing Arts at The Barbara Speake Stage School and then at the age of 16, he decided to earn a living performing cabaret in nightclubs. “Looking back, my childhood was the point in my life where I was learning and crafting my trade. Ever since I can remember,
I’ve wanted to perform and entertain. I became a Blue Coat at the age of 16 and then a few years later, I fronted a comedy showband called Tomfoolery. I moved to Cardiff at this point. I lived in Grangetown, drank Brains Dark in The Cornwall and followed my Brains with these chasers called Pony. God knows if they still make it. I’ve got lots of other fond memories of Cardiff as I was in panto there a few years back.” Brian began his TV career as a warm up man for Terry Wogan, Noel Edmonds and Kenny Everett. He soon started making regular appearances on shows such as Five Alive and Live from the Palladium. ITV spotted his talents and he was given his own show – Brian Conley – This Way Up which was followed by The Brian Conley Show. “The magic of variety is that you never know what’s coming next. If I were to stand in front of an audience and just do a stand-up routine, that’d be boring. I like to keep people guessing. Variety performers like myself are now the new ‘alternative comedians’. There aren’t many of us doing it but we’re creating a tapestry that’s been built up over the years. Above anything, I want people to come and spend a few hours with me, forget their troubles, have a laugh and walk away, saying to each other ‘I’ve had a really wonderful evening.’ That for me, is what really matters in my career.” On stage in the West End, Brian spent a year starring in Me And My Girl at the Adelphi Theatre. At the Victoria Palace, he originated the title role, in the Olivier award winning Jolson, which opened to rave reviews. The Mail on Sunday said it was ‘the performance of the decade’ and the Daily Express
commented ‘it takes a star to play a star’. He is also gaining a reputation as a fine actor, starring in Circus with John Hannah and Eddie Izzard, Unconditional Love alongside Kathy Bates, Dream with Sinead Cusack, Arthur’s Dyke with Pauline Quirk and joined Sean Bean and Christian Bale in the cult film Equilibrium. “I didn’t get into this business to become famous. I got into it to become good at what I love doing. Fame is a by-product of it. I get kids coming up to me these days asking me ‘How do I become a superstar?’ They’ve got it all wrong. You don’t do something to become famous. If you want to do it, you’d do it for free. For me, it’s in my blood to entertain. I was born to do it. If I wasn’t doing this, I’d probably be a cab driver, like my dad.” Brian’s latest show, The Real Life of Brian Conley, reached St. David’s Hall on 10th May, and Brian said it was one hell of a night: “It was the most fun you could have had without taking your clothes off.” he said. “We had the award-winning Mat Ricardo helping us out and I sang some of my well-known songs too. All in all, I’ve worked out that everyone saved over £440 by coming along to the show!” “After this, I’ll be taking the lead role in Barnum for a year.” he added. Brian was speaking ahead of his recent appearance at St Davids’ Hall, Cardiff
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everyday either driving our cars, walking down the street or when watching T.V. Contrary to popular belief, hypnosis is not a state of deep sleep but does involve induced relaxation. When you are in a relaxed state your brain is at its most receptive to positive change.
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altering our state of mind, the conscious control mind is inhibited, and the subconscious mind is awoken. Since the subconscious mind is a more instinctive force than the conscious mind, this is the part which has to change for the patients behaviour and physical state to alter.
points, known as reflexes, that relate to Most patients only need 1 course of various parts of the body and its treatment, some, depending on their functions. job or the above factors, may need or What if I have ticklish feet or I want supportive care alongside physical rehabilitation to ensure the don't like my feet being touched? problem doesn't reoccur. The pressure is precise so it does not tickle & Reflexology can also be applied Can I have chiropractic to the hands. treatment if I am pregnant? Does it hurt? Yes, we look to optimise joint, Areas of imbalance may be more ligament & muscle function using sensitive, but the treatment is deeply gentle & comfortable techniques relaxing. specifically for pregnant patients. During pregnancy we can help to What can it help? reduce pain caused by postural It can help with most symptoms & changes & the loosening of joints. It conditions. I have personally worked with also optimises pelvic function ready many people with IBS, infertility & for the birthing process. Specialist gynaecological problems. pregnancy cushions are used to How many treatments will I need? ensure safety & comfort. This depends on your reasons for treatment & how quickly your body responds. I am client led, so you decide how many treatments will be best for you.
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News in the Community NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH With Bill Farnham It is fifty years ago, on 13th March just gone, since the murder of Kitty Genovese in the Borough of Queens, New York – a tragedy that resulted in the setting up of the world’s first Neighbourhood Watch scheme in the United States. Since then, Neighbourhood Watch was introduced in the UK in 1982 in the village of Mollington, Cheshire, but there it started as Home Watch and some areas of the country still use this title, Manchester being one. The name Neighbourhood Watch gradually took over and became the norm, with Neighbourhood Watch starting in Cardiff in 1985. Our last meeting at the Cardiff International Hotel, Tongwynlais at which Mr Alun Michael, Police and Crime Commissioner for South Wales was our guest speaker, went very well with over 80 people in attendance - which was excellent considering the dreadful weather on the night. I launched another new Watch in Heol Rhayader, Whitchurch in March which is now up and running successfully. The Rogue Trader Week exercise run by South Wales Police has just ended and as part of this, I manned a stand in the concourse of University Hospital of Wales together with a representative of South Wales Police Home Security and one from Trading Standards which was very interesting indeed. I also manned a stand at the
challenge football match at South Wales Police Headquarters Leckwith Stadium between a Bridgend recently and South Wales Police select eleven helped to set up the Bridgend and the Sudanese Community. Neighbourhood Watch The purpose of this match was Association. I was so pleased to strengthen links between to get this Association up and the police and the Sudanese running at last as they have been community of Cardiff and it was in a state of limbo for quite a a very successful evening indeed, while and are now ‘back in the especially as the police team fold’. included several ex Cardiff City If anyone is interested in setting players. The police won by the up a Neighbourhood Watch way! group please contact your local National Neighbourhood Watch Neighbourhood Policing Team week this year is from 13th or contact our office on 02920 June until 22nd June and we are 527301. working flat out preparing events Bill Farnham for this. We will be holding Chairman our ‘Pre-launch’ event again in St David’s 2 - as we did last year and we will have several high profile names in attendance. If you are in the area on that day, Graphic Design, Digital & Litho Printing, focused please come solely on delivering a quality service.. and have a chat with us. Our General Meeting was held on 20th May at Whitchurch Rugby Club. Our guest speaker for the evening was Mr Peter Vaughan, Chief Constable of South Wales Police. I know that this is outside Cardiff but I attended a meeting at 29
recipes
World Cup Winners Chocolate Popcorn 1 tbsp sunflower oil 50g popcorn, unpopped 100g white chocolate, broken into pieces 100g dark or milk chocolate, broken into pieces
1. Heat the oil in a large pan with a lid. Add the unpopped popcorn and heat gently. Let the popcorn pop, shaking the pan frequently. You will hear it popping but don’t be tempted to look! 2. Once the popcorn has stopped popping after a couple of minutes or so, take it off the heat and sprinkle with a large pinch of salt. 3. Melt the white chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water, making sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the bowl. Add half the popcorn to the white chocolate, stirring to coat it. Transfer the popcorn onto a lined baking sheet. 4. Melt the dark or milk chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water, in the same way. Stir in the remaining popcorn to coat it, then spread over the top of the white chocolate popcorn. 5. Leave to set and break up to serve.
Honey Bites
Flour, for work table 300g pizza dough 300ml extra virgin olive oil 3 tbsp clear honey, for drizzling 1. Sprinkle flour on a worktable. Roll out the dough to about a 0.5cm thickness. Cut the dough into small squares resembling ravioli. 2. Heat up extra virgin olive oil in a deep saucepan. Gently place the dough-squares in the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until they have puffed up and are golden. Turn the dough over to cook on all sides. 3. Transfer to a plate with a slotted spoon and place on an absorbent paper towel. Sprinkle with salt, while hot. Drizzle with honey and serve.
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With the football World Cup underway, here are some tasty treats to keep the whole family happy
Roast Swede Wedges 800g swede, peeled and cut into slim wedges 1 tbsp oil small bunch thyme leaves, picked 50 g parmesan, grated
1. Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. 2. In a bowl, toss the swede in the oil, thyme and half the parmesan until well coated. Spread out in a roasting tin and cook in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the swede is cooked through and crisp on the edges. 3. Tip into a serving bowl and while still hot, sprinkle over the remaining cheese and a good grind of black pepper.
Marmite Twirlies 320g sheet of ready rolled puff pastry 100g Marmite 100g cheddar cheese, grated 1 egg, whisked
1. Preheat the oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7. Roll out the sheet of pastry and place onto a board. 2. Spread the Marmite over the rolled out pastry and top with the grated cheese. Roll the pastry back up again, lengthways, like a Swiss roll, use a little egg wash to seal the edges together. 3. Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled pastry into 1.5cm thick slices and place on a baking tray, lined with greaseproof paper. Brush a little egg wash over the rolls. 4. Cook the swirls for 15 minutes until golden and serve warm or cold.
Column PATRIC MORGAN
LAZY SUMMER DAYS, OLD TRAINS AND CARNIVAL FLOATS
It wasn’t so long ago that summers used to be hot and endless. That’s the way it seemed to me as a youngster growing up in the 1980s. When that final bell of school tolled, it heralded the arrival of six sunny weeks ahead, with nothing to do except play, play, play. I’m sure Mum was dreading it. With Dad working long, hot hours, it was left to Mum to entertain four kids for over 40 days and 40 nights. The holidays would invariably start with a train ride to Barry Island. As I wanted to become a train driver as a child, the train journey itself was the best bit for me. These were the days when Class 116s used to ply the lines between Cardiff Central and Barry Island. I’d stand behind the glasspartitioned cab to watch the driver pushing and pulling all the levers. There was one occasion where the driver let me in to drive the train myself. Not entirely sure that’s something that would happen these days. There’d be plenty of others on the train heading to the beach of course, laden with plastic buckets and spades. Arriving at the beach, we’d weave our way through the smattering of deck chairs, windbreakers and sizzling bodies. “Meet us by Number 6.” would have been our instruction from Nan. She would have been referring to the large numbers painted on the stone walls of the promenade. We’d find her, complete with flowery swimsuit and swimming hat, probably about to tuck into a withering blob of ice-cream. Other aunties would join us during the afternoon, each one bringing with them their own blankets, which they’d spread out
as if claiming a patch of land. On Sundays, we’d be sent to the Sunday School classes that magically appeared on the beach. It was an excuse really for Mum and her sisters to have a quiet half hour and maybe a warm cigarette. Dad came with us one day on one of his rare days off. As we pulled into Barry Island train station, Mum turned to Dad and told him that she couldn’t remember if she’d shut the kettle off (these were the days when you boiled them on the hob). Dad had to stay on the train and head back home. A few hours later, he arrived, just as we were packing up. She had shut it off. Other times, we’d get off the train at Barry station and walk the mile or so to Barry Island. In between, on a dry, dusty plain lay Dai Woodham’s Engine Graveyard. We’d weave our way through the sleeping giants, and if we were feeling brave enough, we’d climb aboard their rotting hulks and pretend that we were steaming to Weston-Super-Mare for the day. There were often holes in the floor plating and we had to be careful not to fall down them. I was always scared that the trains would somehow come back to life as we walked between them. One by one, they would eventually breathe fire and steam once more
but not before we had chance to run among their ruins.
Barry Carnival always took place at the end of July. We’d ‘get there early to get a good viewing position of the floats’. It’d be a few hours before they turned up but I’ll always remember the fizz of excitement when we could hear the jazz bands’ drums approaching in the distance. The big sweaty bass drum player always seemed to thud his drum harder as he passed - a sound that would thump down through my small body. Back then, it was a proper town affair. As hot afternoon seethed into a cobalt summer’s evening, laughter would spill from the open pubs doors and windows. Summer magic. 31
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