Rhiwbina Living Issue 45 by Rhiwbina Living

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Rhiwbina Living

At the heart of the community Issue 45 Winter â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;18

Your multi award-winning magazine for Rhiwbina

Inside this issue Interview Meet the Garden Village's oldest resident and find out about life in Rhiwbina over the last 97 years Competitions

Win a family ticket to see The Nutcracker and tickets to Singa-Long-a The Greatest Showman at St David's Hall

Christmas Gifts

Discover our hand-picked Christmas gifts from our local shops in Rhiwbina and beyond

Style your home for Winter 10 ways to make your home the perfect refuge from the winter weather

Spring deadline:

28th February 2019 Published 13th March 2019

a: 222 Pantbach Road, Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 6AG t: 07772 081775 / 07974 022920 w: www.livingmags.co.uk e: editor@livingmags.co.uk or danielle@livingmags.co.uk Distribution: 6,000 copies of Rhiwbina Living are personally delivered by us to every house in the Rhiwbina ward four times a year in line with the seasons. We also distribute to local shops While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors or omissions, or for any matter in any way arising from the publication of this material. Every effort has been made to contact any copyright holders. Rhiwbina Living is an independent, apolitical publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written permission of the publishers.

Welcome / Croeso It's that time of year again when the excitement of the festive season builds. The village is aglow with twinkling lights, the windows of our shops proudly display their finest offerings and the children talk incessantly of the magic number of sleeps left before the big day. We meet some of Rhiwbina's youngest children who share their precious letters to the big man himself and their allimportant wishes for Christmas. On the other end of the scale, we talk to the oldest resident of the Garden Village, who with help from her daughter reflects on the past 97 years living in Rhiwbina. This time of the year is busy for us all, but for one Rhiwbina figure, perhaps the busiest that can be. We meet our local postman who has dedicated the past 30 years to delivering Rhiwbina's post with a smile and a friendly wave. As the bitter, easterly winds arrive, we tend to hunker down and spend more time indoors. We share some ideas for making our homes extra snuggly to keep warm and cosy, and to enjoy the beauty of being inside. With gifts aplenty to buy, our villages are the best places to find the perfect gems as gifts. We showcase some of the finest on offer. It's also a fabulous way of supporting our local businesses who are the heart of our village life. For those who want to give a gift a little different, we highlight other ways to show your appreciation for loved ones. So, if you're really stuck

for a present for someone who seems to have everything, take a look at our guide to find a present 'outside of the box'. Food is a big part of this season and enjoying homemade goodies is perhaps one of the greatest joys of this time of the year. We share some ideas for delicious treats for the perfect Christmas Eve supper. Someone has to win our fabulous two competitions and St David's Hall have once again shared their generosity with us by offering tickets to both the ballet and to an uplifting and fun Sing-A-Long. There is a heartwarming short story to enjoy and a more lighthearted view of the run up to Christmas. So, as the busy days draw nearer to the crescendo of Christmas, pour yourself a glass of your favourite tipple and take some time to fully savour all the treats this issue has to offer. We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy 2019. See you in the Spring!

Danielle and Patric

Editors

@RhiwbinaLiving www.facebook.com/rhiwbinaliving

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on Round Table Santa Visit Wednesday 5th December Rhiwbina Village Santa's annual visit to the village. Times TBC. White Christmas at Monico Movies Saturday 8th December 7.30pm Canolfan Beulah Christmas Movie Night with a classic. Santa's Garden Village Run Sunday 16th December 4pm

Santa visits Rhiwbina Garden Village. New Year's Eve Party Monday 31st December Rhiwbina Recreation Club See in the New Year with a curry buffet, a cheese board and bubbly. Rhiwbina Panto Fri 2nd/Sat 3rd March Canolfan Beulah The popular local panto returns for its second year

news

Rhiwbina panto returns for second year of fun

Following last year's huge success, Rhiwbina Friends of Tenovus pantomime will be once again featuring members of the local community as well as members of Cardiff North Sing with Us Choir. The 2019 panto will also feature Peter Karrie, who is famous for his leading role of the Phantom of the Opera, with local councillor Jayne Cowan also playing the role of The Witch of Cardiff North. Writer and organiser Anthea Parker told Rhiwbina Living: "We had such a laugh putting on the show last year. It was great to see community relationships being forged through the whole process too. We are so thrilled to have Peter on board this year. We've also a

great local talent in Milly Davies, who is currently in pantomime in Northampton. Supporting us will be Cardiff North Sign With Us Choir who practice in Rhiwbina." The 2019 panto will take place on March 1st and 2nd in Canolfan Beulah. Tickets will be available from Rhiwbina Tenovus Shop or from Anthea on 07789 448277.

Promotional video highlights Rhiwbina village

A promotional video for the shops and businesses of Rhiwbina was launched in the Autumn by the Rhiwbina Events Committee. The two minute video showcased some of the independent retailers in the village, and was widely shared across social media. It was created by Weltch Media and Memorable Creative Journalism. Rhiwbina Events Committee's Sue Harding said: "It was a superb couple of days filming - every single person we met was just so friendly. There was lots of interest from inquisitive shoppers and as we wandered around the businesses, I witnessed some proud business owners frantically getting their shops spick and span!"

WW1 centenary honoured

Parking clamp downs proposed Persistent traffic and parking offenders and owners of untaxed vehicles in Cardiff face having their wheels clamped and vehicles removed by the Council on behalf of the DVLA. Parking in Rhiwbina has long been the subject of debate with very little in the way of car parks available for motorists. Using existing devolved powers and DVLA permission, the Council's traffic enforcement officers could soon be able to clamp and remove vehicles that are causing a nuisance in the village and across the city. Vehicles which could then be targeted in any clampdown include: • Persistent parking and traffic ticket

offenders (vehicles associated with numerous unpaid parking or traffic fines). • Vehicles that cause a dangerous illegal obstruction on roads with double yellow lines or other traffic restrictions. • Vehicles without a registered owner with the DVLA and vehicles that are not taxed for two months or over.

A service to commemorate 100 years since the end of WW1 was recently held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Rhiwbina. In the presence of the Rt Hon The Lord Mayor, members of congregations from around Cardiff and the surrounding areas performed several moving musical numbers. Dressed in ceremonial clothes, a number of people also gave soliloquies of their time in war. Members of the Jewish and Sikh faiths were invited to attend and take part.

news

Taking licence A Rhiwbina shop owner has told Rhiwbina Living that Cardiff Council are seeking money for a licence to display goods outside their shop. The shop owner, who didn't want to be named, told Rhiwbina Living: "I received a letter from the Council explaining that I would need to apply for a licence to display my goods outside or receive a £100 fine. If I didn’t pay and continued, then there would be a chance of being turned down altogether. The licence costs £200 per year. "We haven’t needed a licence before and only now have we been targeted. As you can imagine, I feel victimised as no other business has been contacted. Many small business owners pay themselves way under minimum wage in order to bring their services to the village and then to be targeted for an extra £200 because the Council are trying to make some money is a pretty bitter pill to take." The shop owner said that they have tried to contact the Council to clarify regulations but that they have not been able to get back with all the answers all their queries.

Rhiwbina Christmas cards A series of Christmas cards based on local village life have now been published by Rhiwbina Living. Co-editor Patric Morgan said: "We've had a lot of interest in these since we announced that we were selling them in the autumn. Delivery is free to anyone in the Rhiwbina postcode too." The cards are now available from www.cosyhomestore.com

Rhiwbina Squirrels have their tails high

At the beginning of December, Rhiwbina 1st XV were at the top of Division One East Central, two points ahead of their local rivals Glamorgan Wanderers and Rumney. The Squirrels have only lost one game all season, and that was a last-minute one point reverse away at Porth Harlequins. The Squirrels have also progressed to the 3rd Round of the WRU National Plate Competition, beating Builth Wells and St Joseph's on the way. They play their 3rd Round match at home to Llanelli Wanderers on Saturday 8th December at Caedelyn and are hoping for a big crowd to cheer them on. The Squirrels famously made it to the final in 2014, where they lost narrowly to Merthyr RFC. The Rhiwbina 2nd XV are playing their second season in the newly formed WRU Conference, where they play the 2nd XVs of other leading

clubs. They have played four games and won two of them, including a tremendous and high-scoring win against Cardiff Met by 35-17. This was the first time that Cardiff Met had lost to a Cardiff-based team for a number of years, which made the victory even more notable. The Mini and Junior section go from strength to strength and play regularly on Sunday mornings at Caedelyn. The draw for Rhiwbina RFC’s annual raffle in partnership with Cancer Research Wales will take place at Rhiwbina Recreation Club on 22nd December. There’s still time for you to support the initiative that develops community rugby at all ages in Rhiwbina - and combats cancer in Wales - by buying tickets from club members, CRW shops or at Rhiwbina Recreation Club. The scheme was launched earlier this year.

Dog walking ban likely to be scrapped A controversial plan to ban dog walking on marked sports pitches in Cardiff looks set to be dropped after complaints from dog walkers. A petition of more than 16,000 dog owner signatures was backed up by a protest march that included hundreds of people. Peter Bradbury, Cardiff Council cabinet member for Culture and Leisure, said that a blanket ban was now 'highly unlikely' in view of the opposition shown. Dog owner Michelle Gully told Rhiwbina Living: "I am just one of a number of people

who enjoy walking our dogs in a responsible way. We have plenty of wonderful dogs in Rhiwbina who need a place to run free." Under the plan, walkers faced spot fines of £100 if caught breaking the ban on dog walking. Fines for dog fouling were also considered.

Drain thefts cost Council £40,000 to replace Cardiff Council has spent £40,000 replacing storm drains that have been stolen by metal thieves. About 125 gully grids have been stolen since mid July, causing the council to replace them and make them safe at a cost of £43,000. The new grids have been replaced by frames that cannot be removed by

hand. Cardiff's Trading Standards said that they will be visiting scrap dealers to check their records and taking action if necessary. The thefts took place across the city but the more recent ones took place in Rhiwbina and nearby Radyr.

Rhiwbina Library Events at the All the latest news and events from Rhiwbina Library December

Saturday 1st: Writing Workshop with Jo Verity (10am–1pm) £10 Friday 7th: Children’s Book Club (4-4.45pm) 7–10 years Wednesday 13th: Rhyme Time with Margaret Holt (10.30am) Monday 17th: Read Aloud – for grown ups (3–4pm)

Arrivals and Departures

Hwyl fawr Geraint

Mark writes:

January

Saturday 12th: Board Games Afternoon for adults and children. Bring along your favourite games. (1.30pm–3.30pm) Wednesday 30th: Quiz & Cuppa (3.30pm) £2

Geraint and Mark

Tuesday 12th: John Wake: ‘Injustice and the Cruel Streets’ – Part 2 (7pm) £3 Wednesday 27th: Quiz & Cuppa (3.30pm) £2

We’re sad to report that Geraint Bowen is leaving us. We know everyone would like to thank him for his help, expertise and enthusiasm during his six years at Rhiwbina Library. We wish him a stimulating, rewarding and fun ‘change of direction’.

Jigsaw Library

Geraint writes:

February

Our Jigsaw Library is open every Saturday (10am-12.30pm)

Cardiff author Peter Finch's Roots Of Rock was a sell out

have been a great support and who make Rhiwbina Library what it is. So I wish every success to Rhiwbina Library and am sure that Mark Croft and the staff will take the service forward with the support of the Friends.

After 34 years as a Chartered Librarian, it’s time to start a new chapter and so I’m off to explore other options! It all started at the Old Central Library in 1984. Those were the days when we used directories, almanacs, encyclopaedias etc to answer enquiries; no Google then! After roles in Cowbridge, London and Portsmouth, hiraeth and my partner’s work called us back home in 2011. I was lucky enough to secure the post of Senior Librarian job-share at Rhiwbina the following year. It has been an absolute pleasure serving this community and working with the Friends of Rhiwbina Library. Together, we have, I hope, enhanced what was already a very successful service. Above all else, I will miss my colleagues, past and present, who

Having worked in the Library service for several years, I am excited to be returning to the Rhiwbina and Whitchurch areas. My various placements have allowed me to work all over Cardiff. It is apparent that the city’s varied and vibrant communities hold their core library and hub services at the heart of what they do. This community focus and engagement is something that will become increasingly important in the future. I am looking forward to the journey ahead; working with community groups such as the Friends of Rhiwbina Library; creating new opportunities for our highly valued borrowers and residents, along with developing the services we currently offer. I am very fortunate to have such a skilled and hardworking team. I wish Geraint all the best for the future. He was a fantastic mentor to me when I worked in Rhiwbina Library. I know staff and borrowers will miss him greatly. Mark For details of events, consult the notice board or Tel: 029 2069 3276 Email: friendsofrhiwbinalibrary@ gmail.com Website: friendsofrhiwbinalibrary. weebly.com Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

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Your letters

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! We love to hear what you've been up to so send us your letters and photos! We'll do our best to print them all! editor@livingmags.co.uk

Winter Beneath the darkness of a winter sky, When icy rain disturbs the pools of mud, And roaring gales, engendered by the sea Compel the grey and heavy clouds to rage And veil the fading sunlight’s cheerless eye, Behold the sad procession of the reeds, Entombed within the river’s turgid flow! They sigh and shiver, quiver in the wind And whisper with convulsive restlessness The secrets of a green and fertile past, Of fish and sunlight through the water-weeds – A season full of summer’s birds and rain And light, caressing breezes from the south. Yet now, in melancholy drab and brown, They bow beneath the eastern wind and hail. Beneath a bank of weeping willow trees They sign and whisper in the winter breeze. Anne James Rhiwbina

Good Samaritans in the Park Thank you to all the people of Rhiwbina who were concerned and helpful when I fell in Caedelyn Park and broke my hip, resulting in an operation. I’m still in awe of the kindness shown. Thank you all so much. H Jones Rhiwbina

Scam callers I recently had a telephone call out of the blue and I wanted to share my experience with your readers to warn them in case they get a similar call. The call came from an official sounding person who told me that they'd received a complaint about me from the police. They didn't say who they were but that the next call I would get would be from the police. A few minutes later, I had a call from someone claiming to be a police officer. I became suspicious and put the phone down. I later investigated this and found that these calls are from scammers - people who try and trick you out of money. Please be aware that this type of thing happens! Don't get involved! H Jones Rhiwbina

Old Christmas in Rhiwbina

When I say 'old Rhiwbina', I mean back in the 1970s. A group of us that lived in the village got together and decided to make a reindeer that we could tow around the village. The plan was to include Santa who would deliver presents to those families with children who we had arranged in advance. We even delivered to some without children I might add. The event became a success and it’s been going ever since. We constructed the Rudolph in Jeff Heath’s workshops that used to belong to the Rhiwbina Garden Village Association, just at the rear of the library. In the first few years, we ran over into Whitchurch with it but that got too much in the end. One of our first Santas was our good friend Bill Thomas who lived opposite the library. The trailer and tow vehicle was lent and driven by Jim Taverner, another prominent member of the Garden Village. My job and that of our friend Mike Arentson was to sort out the presents (by torchlight in the tow car) and hand them to Santa for him to deliver. It was a very important role – can you imagine if the child got the wrong present? I don’t think it ever happened to Mike and I. But of course, we missed out on the free drinks that the other helpers got. On a cold, wet night, Mike and I were at least in the warm and dry. After the run, we would end up in the Rhiwbina Recreation Club. Santa was always worse for wear by the time we got there (he was given too many mince pies apparently) but we all celebrated a job well done. Long may it continue. Richard Tinsley Rhiwbina

If you have anything you’d like our readers to know about, drop us a line at editor@livingmags.co.uk or by letter to 222 Pantbach Road, Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 6AG. You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter

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Year One

Rhiwbeina Primary

Year One have been busy enjoying their first topic 'Wild Things'. Whilst visiting Mountain View Ranch, they followed the trail of the Gruffalo and became their very own wild things, and chased a dragon through the forest with the aid of the storyteller. They used the play park to find out how it was put together and what force was required to make the equipment move. The delicious end to the visit was toasting marshmallows around a camp fire.

Nursery Diwali Fun Nursery had a lot of fun finding out about Diwali using books, pictures and Espresso clips. We improved our fine motor skills making pinch tea light pots using Play Dough, creating beautiful Rangolis on Purple Mash and using chalk in the playground. We also practised our cutting skills making fabulous lanterns.

Year Two Jambo

Oliver's Vegetables Reception has had a busy half term making new friends, learning new routines and finding out about our friends and family. Our favourite book has been Oliver's Vegetables. We have been busy outdoors making Oliver's vegetable patch and have successfully grown a pepper. We tasted all the different vegetables in the story and talked about which ones were our favourite. The potatoes were a success, although cabbage and spinach leaves were not very popular! We are all looking forward to our next topic 'Glow and Glitter'.

Our first topic in Year 2 has been Jambo. We have been finding out all about life in Africa, the countries, the rivers and the animals. We used our ICT skills to research the topic and find out lots of fascinating facts on the internet. Using our Forest Schools area, we re-created life in an African Village. We had to walk a very long way to collect our water and it was extremely heavy to carry. We also had great fun mending fences, washing clothes and collecting firewood to make a fire.

Year Three Detectives This half term, we have been 'Looking for Clues' and using our skills of observation on all sorts of activities. At the art gallery, we had to find paintings from descriptions and clues. We also followed a trail in St Mary's Graveyard which led us to the grave of the Bird Family. We wondered if anyone in our community knew of this family who lived in New Houses in Melingriffith, or is related to them? Back in school, we used lots of sources of evidence to find answers to our own investigation questions.

Rugby Success Many congratulations to both of our rugby teams in the recent Cathedral School Rugby Festival. Both the A and B teams won all of their games in outstanding fashion, only conceding one try all day! Everyone was very pleased with our results and we all had a great time.

Year 6 World War II Evacuation

Year Five Urdd It was with much pleasure that the Year Five Urdd group visited the Wales Millennium Centre to participate in an Urdd jamboree. Along with other schools from all over South Wales, our pupils were entertained with songs and dances led on stage by Martyn Geraint and Mr. Urdd himself! A most enjoyable and energetic time was had by all.

Children In Need

Vineyard Church We were so grateful to Vineyard Church (Cardiff North site) for giving up their time on 4th November to come into our school to help carry out restorations and renovations as part of their ‘Love Cardiff’ project.

We had a super day fundraising for Children in Need, and once again the Junior stalls were very popular. James and Jenkins Subaru Garage took part in our fundraising efforts and kindly gave away rugby tickets to see Wales play Tonga. We raised a staggering £2,558.38! A big thank you to everyone for your continued support.

As part of our WWII topic last half term, our Year 6 pupils were taken on our mock evacuation, catching the train from Coryton into Rhiwbina village where they were met by ‘billeting’ officers. The children were welcomed by members of Beulah Church (the billeting station) and the ‘evacuees’ were then ‘chosen’ by members of the Whittaker Lounge, enabling the children to fully empathise with what an evacuation may have actually been like. A huge thank you to Barbara and significant others from Beulah Church who have been making this day come alive for the last 12 years! A special mention must also go to Mrs Eleanor Grimes, who at 92 years of age is still helping us by recounting her amazing WWII stories for the children!

Dig For Victory! They achieved so much on that morning, painting walls and benches, sprucing up our kitchen garden and trimming hedges. They did an amazing job alongside a few members of our school council, teachers, and former pupils before braving the torrential rain!! Thank you Vineyard - we love it!

Also as part of the topic, the Year 6 pupils had the opportunity to re-enact the process of growing their own vegetables and digging them up as they have become acquainted with the ‘Dig for Victory' WWII government campaign. The children had a variety of potatoes, carrots, beetroot and turnips to take home to sample. Some of them even put their culinary skills to good use by using their vegetables in a range of WWII recipes.

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Courses in Drawing • Painting • Oils • Watercolours • Mixed Media Printmaking • Art History • Children’s Academy Group Events • Birthday Parties

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With a wide range of quality greetings cards and gifts for all occasions, Serenade in the heart of Rhiwbina village is the perfect place to visit this winter

· ty Beanie Boos · Top Model by Depesche · Wild Olive bath treats · Local and Welsh cards

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RAYMOND GUBBAY presents

Stunning scenery brought to life by magical special effects

Snow Maiden The Nutcracker Swan Lake Cinderella The Russian State Ballet of Siberia Accompanied by The Orchestra of the Russian State Ballet Performed by

FOUR MAGICAL BALLETS ONE EXCITING SEASON

19 - 31 DECEMBER

kids

us Santa Cla Lapland North Pole nta

Sa Dear

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d to orwar ily for f g in m ok I’m lo with my fa g in ood be ays mas. on your G ly t is r h ot alw e C n m ic a 's n I it y I hope ause I pla , although and r c e e t b is t ooks s b e Lis l g t it in yl olour with m e six c v a h ! I y ld eas e cou as. Pleas L dolls. hristm C y r O r two L you a Me I wish

R osie

Dear Santa looking at the This Christmas, I will be to see what e tre the r presents unde get. I like to fabulous presents I will . I also enjoy guess what they will be s at singing Christmas song d an decorating the tree ke a ma s ay alw we tmas Eve, the same time. On Chris me so when I wake up, I get Christmas Eve cake and e box. gifts in my Christmas Ev to my Good List as I'm helpful ur yo I'm hoping I'm on m the ve lea r ve ne d friends an in out of things. I'm good rd. I school and always try ha d. am kin For Christmas, I would like d. iPo FIFA 19 and an You are a nice man nts. for bringing good prese big I wish I could give you a for hug to say 'thank you' a slice visiting me. I will leave p of cu a d an de of cake I ma da an lk mi d an u yo tea for lph carrot for Rudo .

Ben

Dear Santa I am looking forward to Christmas because my elf comes and he’s really cheeky. Once he ate some chocolates from my Christmas tree! I’m also looking forward to opening the presents in my stocking! I should be on the Good List because I always help my my little brother with maths and writing, and I help their with gling strug e they’r friends at school when few work. Please can I have roller skates, a Fitbit and a or List hty Naug the on I Am s. figure action and es puzzl the Good List?!

George

Dear Santa

Dear Santa This year, I'm excited to come to the North Pole to meet you and the elves and huskies, as I love huskies. I'm also excited about seeing Chippy my Elf on the Shelf because she always finds a new hiding spot and it's fun to chat to her and have conversations. For Christmas, I'd like LOL Under Wraps, Smooshy Mushies, Poopsies, Squishies, LOL Confetti Pops and Pikmi Pops. I'd also like Twistimals, an LOL game, LOL pets, Lil Sisters and Sylvanian Families because they are nice and soft and beautiful. If I can, I'd also like My Little Pony Underwater Sea Ponies because they have bits of water inside them and they have different colours. Mostly though, I would like to see my big brother Cullen this Christmas as I haven't seen him for about a year. Also, please can you bring happiness into the world so the world can be happier? I'd like to think I'm on your Good List as I've been listening to my teacher at school and concentrating more. I've been good at playing with my little brother Barnaby and looking after him when my parents leave the room and making sure he doesn't get up to mischief or hurt himself. I also wipe his snotty nose! I also make sure that none of my friends are left out when we are playing at school. I can't wait to meet you and your reindeer and elves.

I am really looking forward to Christmas because we decorate the Christmas tree and our house when you visit. I have been good! Sometimes I tidy my room on my own. I would like you to bring an LOL, Hatchimals, Fingerlings and an activity tracker. Thank you! I hope you are going to have a really fun Christmas!

Ariana

Evie

Dear Santa I can’t wait for time off school and to be wi th Mummy and Dadd y. And to open my presen ts! I am hoping I’m on yo because I’m well be ur Good List haved and my Parent’s Evening wa s good. I would LOVE an iP ad, LOL Big Sisters and a new school bag. Also maybe some squishies an d new slime. Thank you Santa!

Lily

Dear Santa I’m looking forw ard to Christmas to be with my family and have presents. I’m hoping to be on your Good Li st because I try my best to be ki nd. Please can I have a Fitbit and a Po lly Pocket. Thank you for al l the presents yo u deliver to everyone! You’re really great!

Poppy

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19/11/2018 12:10

The

Queen of Rhiwbina She was born here and she's lived here all her life. She's also the oldest resident of Rhiwbina Garden Village. Meet Sylvia Morgan A lot has changed over the last 97 years but here in Rhiwbina, one thing has remained constant. Her name is Sylvia Morgan and she was born in the Garden Village in 1921. Nearly a century later, she still lives there. "She was born in Y Groes," says daughter Diane, "and she was a middle sibling to an older brother Norman by six years and a younger brother by six years, Geoffrey." Growing up in Y Groes in the 1920s and 30s was a world away from the hustle and bustle of today's village. "We didn't have much," divulges Sylvia. "As a kid, I remember leaning over next door's fence and being amazed at what we could do with nothing. I loved it. "The Square was the centre of my world because my parents were here. It was a lovely place to grow up. It was a happy time. I was fond of everyone and everyone was like your family. They'd knock on your door and end up being here for hours. It was the best place."

Growing up in the village was an idyllic time but the dark clouds of war soon loomed large. Even so, it was the Second World War that brought Sylvia and her husband Alf together. "Mum met Dad during the World War. He was in Army uniform when she first met him. Dad was from Newport and was in Cardiff with a friend. Mum and her friend were there on the same day. She actually fancied his friend but luckily, she decided to meet up again with Dad," chuckles Diane. "They went on a few dates and it went from there. Mum worked in the stores for the services and the bus would come and pick her and her work friends up and take them to work near Tredegar House." There were a few roads around Rhiwbina that were bombed but the Garden Village itself wasn't touched. Despite the hardships of the war effort, Sylvia and Alf's romance blossomed. "Mum and Dad got married on

October 3rd, 1942. The venue was St. Mary's Church in Whitchurch. Mum thought it would be a good idea for Dad's family to get taxis to the church because they lived in Cwmbran but his sisters were adamant that they were going to get a bus. As it happened, they went to the wrong church and missed the ceremony entirely. They only joined us when they were having the reception back at No. 13. For their honeymoon, they went to Bucklebury in Berkshire," explains Diane. "That's where Kate Middleton comes from!" Sylvia and Alf lived at No.13 with Sylvia's parents for a few years before they got their own house in the Square. "They got the house around 1945," continues Diane. "In those days, houses were only given to the families of those who already lived here as it was part of the Garden Village Association. I was born in the front bedroom of this house and my sister Janice was born down on

interview Cathedral Road during the winter of 1947. It was a severe, terrible winter and Dad couldn't get down to see Mum because of the snow. It was pretty horrendous that January. "I was born in July. Apparently. Mum says that my sister ran around the Square telling everyone that she had a baby sister. Everyone was so happy that they all came in to celebrate." For Diane, the family lifestyle that Sylvia and Alf had created was one that is looked back on fondly. "When I was growing up, everyone was 'Aunty' or 'Uncle'," recalls Diane. "Doors were left open and we all visited each other. Everyone had their own unique character back then. I can tell you now the names of all of the people who used to live here in the Square. "Over in Number 2 were the Russell sisters who had a piano that my sister would go and play. Then there was Mr and Mrs Holton at Number 14, who were my Mum's next door neighbour. Their son Gordon ended up being my Mum's neighbour again when they all moved a few doors down years later. "Geoff and Jim would come around as our Estate men. Anything that needed doing in the house, they'd come and do it. They'd cut the grass on the Square and it'd look like a proper lawn. They'd mow it beautifully and then take away all the grass afterwards." Those were the Golden Years, both for the Garden Village, and for the residents. For Sylvia, bringing up her two daughters was helped along by village life. "I danced around the Maypole in the 1960s," says Diane excitedly. "We used to have May Queen competitions and they'd put a big stage up the one end of the Square. As kids, we'd go out in the mornings and not come back until the late afternoon. It was wonderful but it was safe then." "It was always wonderful," adds Sylvia, clasping her hands together. Before the war, Sylvia's father had been working in a large printers near the River Taff. Sylvia's brothers, Geoff and Norman, went into the printing business themselves and Sylvia followed. But after the war, Sylvia's husband worked for the GPO and in 1960, Sylvia got a job as a dinner lady at Rhiwbeina Infants School. She worked there for 20 years. "It was myself and my friend Rene," says Sylvia. "We had great fun and didn't take it too seriously. We loved

Diane and Sylvia

the children," smiles Sylvia. Aged 60, Sylvia was forced to retire. "My father had retired by then too and so Mum joined Evergreens Club, a local ladies club for over 60s that met behind the Bethany Baptist Church for afternoon tea," says Diane. "She was a member there for another 30 years. She'd go there with her best friend Rene and if they didn't go there, they'd go to the Whittaker Lounge instead." Sylvia was a big fan of amateur dramatics too and performed at All Saints Church in Rhiwbina. "We used to have some lovely times. We never had many lines but we were always very good at remembering them. I'll always remember it as part of my life," says Sylvia fondly. "Mum and Rene also went to Luncheon Club at Beulah for quite a few years on Thursdays," says Diane. "She was heading there one day after I warned her not to go outside because it was windy and as soon as she put her umbrella up, the wind blew her over and she broke her hip. She'd only managed to take a few steps and she fell here

on the Square." The Square has always been a focal point, and the Garden Village has always been a special place. For Sylvia and Diane, it still continues to be, despite the characters now being just a distant memory. "My husband died in 1985. I've been without him for 33 years," says Sylvia. "But we've still got each other haven't we?" laughs Diane. "I'm here every day. We like to reminisce, laugh and crack jokes. I told Mum the other day that she'd be 100 soon. Mum said 'What'll happen then?' I said 'Nothing. You'll just carry on.' "It's only when you talk about it, you realise how lucky we were to have been brought up in the era that we were. There is still a great sense of community here but everyone's so busy now, it is a lot different." She's officially the oldest woman in the Garden Village, but for Sylvia, it's all relative. "Time used to be timeless years ago," says Diane. "It wasn't of course, but that's what it felt like."

Constituency News with Julie Morgan AM

This autumn has been busy with events in the constituency and at the Assembly – it’s always a pleasure to meet constituents and get out and about in Cardiff North. In October I held an event on loneliness which was very well attended. There were stalls from many organisations offering people the chance to volunteer, get involved, make new friends or get support if they need it – including Men’s Shed, Friends and Neighbours and the University of the Third Age. The new Older People’s Commissioner, Helena Herklot, came along to talk too.

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Loneliness is fast becoming a national epidemic and it affects so many different groups of people from new mums to disabled people, the recently retired to older people, who feel isolated and alone in our society. Research shows that 18% of people in the UK feel lonely ‘always’ and ‘often’, which is the equivalent of almost 458,000 people in Wales. It was great to be able to showcase some of the help on offer and help people make new connections. Also in October, I attended an event at the Pierhead building in Cardiff Bay to find out how the National Assembly is working with Cardiff University and partner organisations to make our city the first ‘bee-friendly’ city in the UK. The event included climbing up to the roof of the Pierhead to see the two bee hives which have been installed there – it was encouraging to see how many bees were buzzing around. Since then, I’ve asked the Llywydd (Assembly ‘Speaker’) about organising some wildlife-friendly planting on land immediately around the Assembly and she has promised to take action on this. I held my 18th annual Macmillan Coffee Morning at the end of September. It was packed out and local traders generously donated raffle prizes. We raised more than £1,400 – taking the total over the years to £16,000. Please get in touch with me if you have any issues you’d like to discuss. My contact details are below and I hold regular surgeries on Mondays and Fridays, as well as ‘pop up’ surgeries all over the constituency on Saturdays. How to get in touch If you have any concerns or issues please contact my office on 029 2061 4577. I can also be contacted via my website at www.juliemorgan.org. uk, by email at julie.morgan@assembly.wales or through Twitter @JulieMorganLAB Sponsored feature

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Special Delivery He walks 14 miles a day, six days a week around Rhiwbina. His face is known to many but his name is Philip and he's been a postman in Rhiwbina for the last 30 years "It was late 1984 when I joined the Post Office. My father had been a postman for 35 years and I was working as a motorcycle mechanic at the time. My father came home one day and told me about the job." Philip Eide takes a sip of his coffee. He's taking a well-earned break from his current round in Rhiwbina. "I started my career in Penarth Road. My first rounds were all over Cardiff - Llanrumney, the Docks and Canton. I was born and bred in Birchgrove and I was living at home with my parents when a vacancy came up in the North Cardiff office. The area happened to be Rhiwbina and I got the position and I've been here ever since." Philip started his Rhiwbina rounds in 1989, first appearing up on Heol Lewis and Heol Briwnant. "I did that for 20 years. I've been doing my current rounds down in the lower areas of the village now for 10 years." And it's not an easy job. A typical day starts early for Philip. "I get up at 5am every day and my shift starts at 6am. I don't mind it as

the traffic is always pretty light at that time of morning. "I head into the Llanishen office where there's mail prepared there for us, sometimes from the night shift. We then have to prepare our rounds. It takes about 3 and a half hours to prepare the round, indoors, sorting out all the letters and the parcels. When the last mail wagon is in - the office has to be cleared before they let us out. Then we put them all in our bags, tie them up, put them in our vans and off we go. "I start my round about 9.30/10am and it usually takes me about 5 hours. I end up finishing my day around 3pm and I work six days a week. "Because we work such long hours, we have a week off every month. We have annual leave on top of that so it works out about 13 weeks a year off. We're out for a long time though, and in all weathers and I think I'm getting a bit too old for all this now!" Walking around Rhiwbina has pros and cons: "All the exercise and fresh air does

do me good, not that I seem to lose any weight! But it's the slippery conditions that worry me the most. When it's icy, you've got a job to do and you need to pick your way around carefully. Obviously it takes longer when it is slippery and the round's long enough as it is without having to take your time about it." But there are positives to the job and Phil is quick to point out what he loves. "It's the people that makes me love my job. I love stopping and talking to people although I don't have the time that I used to. These days, I have to have a quick chat and move on. Most people are great. It's a nice

interview

Phil on Heol Lewis in 2004 area too so you can't go wrong. Rhiwbina is great. It's an area I absolutely adore and I love everything about it. The only problem is that affluent areas tend to get more post so post workers' workloads are a lot heavier in a nicer area! I see a lot of Investor's Chronicle and the Financial Times!" Among the many streets he delivers to, Phil has his favourite areas: "I love coming into Y Groes because everyone there is really smashing. I remember sitting in my van there earlier this year, before we had that long spell of hot weather. And I remember thinking about how neat the grass had been cut. Everyone's bushes are nicely trimmed and it's nice to see. The people who live around here really look after where they live. "You also notice that some of the houses around the Garden Village still have their original numbers on their gates and there are quite a few in Lon Isa. They are oval-shaped and they are the original ones that were put there when the houses were built. I love the styling of the houses but the only problem with them is having to open and close all their gates! A lot of houses also have their original letterboxes, which are tiny. Around the village, there are all sorts of letterboxes - some are vertical and some are right down low - I'm not a fan of those ones!" Phil comes across all sorts on his rounds: "I've had dog bites. I've been bitten five times and had to go to hospital on two occasions. That's in 34 years though so I guess that's not too bad! People these days tend to keep them under control a lot more. There's one dog on my round who really doesn't like me but when I knock on their door, I can hear the

owners putting the dog away in a room. "The more challenging aspects of the job include the weather and trying to get your round done on time. Finishing on time on a heavy day can also be a challenge. "I have my 10 minute break in the van and we have a 30 minutes break in the morning when we're sorting. I don't eat anything on my round either. I just keep going and it's always been that way." The physical demands of the job cannot be underestimated. Phil once tried an experiment to answer a question that had been bugging him for years: "I walk 14 miles a day. When I lived in Birchgrove, I was doing a 4 and a half hour round and I often wondered where I'd end up if I walked that distance. So one day, I started out from Birchgrove and walked as far in a straight line as I could. I ended up in Barry town centre!" Visiting people in their homes has also meant that Phil has seen a few sights in his time. "I've seen a few naked people on my rounds. I had a guy once up in Heol Lewis and he was in his dressing gown. He had to sign for his parcel and as he was signing for it, his dressing gown came open. And he was stood there with everything showing and he just kept on signing. It was a recorded delivery I think! "I've seen a few naked people through glass doors too," he laughs. "I've knocked on their doors and they've been in some kind of embarrassing state so they've run off somewhere behind the door to get a dressing gown. I've never been invited in though! I would say that most of my days are uneventful although I did find a packet of Custard Creams in a postbox once. I've no idea why anyone would put them in there." Phil doesn't see himself

stopping any time in the near future: "I'll carry on doing what I'm doing until I retire or as long as my legs will keep walking. I'm finding it quite tough to be honest as I've been doing it for so long. I've got a few aches and pains and this five hour delivery span is quite tough. "I used to use a bike. I'd pick it up and cycle out of the office to Rhiwbina with a load of mail on the front. In 2013, they gave me a van as the rounds got bigger and they got rid of the bikes. "As for Rhiwbina, I hope it stays as it is. There's a great community and atmosphere here and there's always something going on in and around the village." And away from his postal duties, Phil doesn't have too much time for anything else. "I've got two dogs that I like to spend my time with. I've always loved dogs. I used to love motorcycling too - something I need to get back into. Back in the day, I also used to collect WWII military uniforms. With the long rounds, I often get home now and just flop in front of the telly! I have my children a few days a week after school and on the weekends and that fills up a lot of my spare time." Phil knows the streets and letterboxes of Rhiwbina like the back of his hand. Years of experience has taught him both knowledge, and a few little tricks to make his job a little bit easier: "Travelling light is the secret. I tend to work in circles and semi-circles, as opposed to just doing streets. It means I can arrive back at my van empty-handed and get ready to go again." So when your Christmas cards and parcels arrive this year, spare a thought for the man who ensures that they get to you safely and promptly.

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Bringing a smile to Rhiwbina Rhiwbina Dental is celebrating 50 years in the village this year. This is the story behind the muchloved practice

n October this year, Rhiwbina Dental celebrated its 50th anniversary. The milestone recognises a remarkable achievement for the local dental practice that has grown from small beginnings to worldwide influence. The practice was first opened in 1968 by Dr John Hawkins and his small team. Under John’s supervision and guidance, Rhiwbina Dental flourished, serving the people of the local community and beyond. John eventually retired at the age of 55, but not before the practice had become an integral

part of village life. The practice was taken over by Dr Nick Claydon in 1997. He also went on to establish his state-ofthe-art specialist dental practice at The Pines in Whitchurch in 2010. Nick’s innovative approach to dentistry has led to the adoption and implementation of cutting edge technologies, both at the practice and elsewhere. Nick lectures widely on his research and practice concepts. Today, the practice boasts a team of 57 and is able to offer specialist services, such as Endodontics and Periodontology. “At Rhiwbina Dental, we provide the very best in dental implant treatment - without the fear factor. Implants are an investment in your future dental health, and we know you’ll feel reassured by the fact that Rhiwbina Dental has assembled some of the most qualified implant professionals in the field. Highly experienced, we have collectively placed hundreds of dental implants in the past few years. In addition, we are constantly looking to the future and exploring the latest technologies and innovations to ensure we remain on the cutting edge of implantology. “We have built an international reputation for excellence, based on a willingness to constantly challenge ourselves and the boundaries of technology, achieving, what are often, life-

The Rhiwbina Dental team changing transformations for our patients.” Rhiwbina Dental now offers a complete range of services, including dental implants and hygiene, cosmetic dentistry, routine dental care, restorative dentistry, facial aesthetics (botox and fillers) and PRGF, which is used for surgical procedures at the surgery. Rhiwbina Dental said: “We are extremely proud of both our practices and the high standards that we set ourselves in all areas of dentistry. We are especially known for dental implants, not only in Cardiff but worldwide. We also know that private patients have a great deal of choice for their dental care and we greatly appreciate the commitment that our patients show to us in allowing us to care for them. “Both our surgeries have disabled access. We have downstairs waiting rooms and surgeries. We also communicate with our patients on a first name basis and have brilliant and loyal relationships with them.”

Rhiwbina Dental Surgery 25-27 Heol y Deri Cardiff CF14 6HB 02920 626551 www.rhiwbinadental.com Sponsored feature

10 ways to style your home this winter 65 1. CREATE A COSY OUTDOOR AREA The first thing visitors to your home will see is the exterior of your house so if you want to make a winter welcome, create a small area where you can sit and enjoy some mulled wine.

6 2. DECK THE HALLWAY The entrance to your home is often overlooked when it comes to Christmas decorating. Creating a welcoming area for your festive guests will really set the Christmas scene for them. Clear your hallway of clutter beforehand and clear your coat rack so that guests can use it.

5 3. LOGS A log fire or log burner is often the epicentre of a Christmas scene. If you're not lucky enough to have one, you can still recreate the essence of a fireside retreat by placing baskets of small logs around the living room and using candles to bring light and warmth. Candles with the scent of a log burner can add a festive feel to the senses.

6 4. OUTDOORS INDOORS Bringing outdoor beauty indoors can help reflect the winter season. Pine cones, rustic garlands and willow ornaments will complement your Christmas tree and serve as a reminder of the beauty in nature. The use of wood in your ornaments will add a homely feel and can also bring a distinct, cosy aroma to your home.

interiors 5 5. BERRY CHRISTMAS The vivid colours of a Christmas berry is one of the traditional ways to brighten up your home. Holly has been the staple of the festive season but many shops now sell berry garlands and wreaths that can be used year after year. Combined with the scent of a Christmas candle, it's a bold way to add warmth and colour to your rooms.

8 6. BLANKET COVER Heavy, knitted blankets and faux fur throws not only look good but also give you and your guests a place to hibernate for a while. They also give your home a Nordic feel, reminiscent of wooden cabins and secret hideaways.

65 7. WINTER SNOW Seasonal colours can dramatically affect the way a home looks. Co-ordinating your palette will need an element of pre-planning but one way to mimic the snowy hills of a winter's scene is to use plenty of white. Whether it's distressed white furniture or simply a blend of white textures and materials that you use, your home is always going to look the part during the icy months.

65 8. THE PRICE OF GOLD The 1970s saw a glut of glittery golden decor, especially around Christmas. In recent years, it was blue that seeped into our festive colouring but gold is starting to make itself known again. Bright, bold and sometimes brash, gold never really left our Christmas thoughts - after all, it was one of the gifts that the Wise Men brought.

5 9. LESS IS MORE Christmas can be a time of excess and sometimes, taking a step back and stripping things right back can be a revelation. Why not just use lights on your Christmas tree this year? You may not even need a tree - a fallen branch from your garden, or an existing plant in your home, decorated with lights can be turned into a festive alternative.

6 10. TIME TO HIBERNATE It's often easy to focus on your reception rooms but if you're having seasonal visitors over to stay, it's also worth remembering that the bedrooms will benefit from a touch of styling. The use of some simple fairy lights will help soften even the squarest of rooms and will add festive sparkle. Don't forget to provide them with adequate bedding during the colder months.

Services for Advent & Christmas

BEULAH UNITED REFORMED CHURCH, Heol Y Deri, Rhiwbina

Saturday, December 1st: 10am-12.30pm: Beulah Bazaar, Canolfan Beulah. All proceeds go to ‘Save the Children’

Saturday, December 22nd: 10.30am: Canolfan Beulah - Christmas Coffee Morning with mince pies and carols. Proceeds to MIND.

Sunday, December 2nd Advent Sunday: 10.30am: Morning Worship and Junior Church 6pm: United Churches Communion: Towards the End of the Day, service of reflections and music

Sunday, December 23rd: 10.30am: Family Service led by the young people of Beulah 6pm: Carol Service

Thursday, December 7th/Friday, December 8th: 7:30pm: Beulah Players Present ‘Bless ‘em All’ in Canolfan Beulah Sunday, December 9th: 10.30am: Morning Worship with Infant Baptism & Junior Church 6pm: ‘Light for our Loss’ A service for those grieving at Christmas Sunday, December 16th: 10.30pm: Morning Worship with Communion & Junior Church Wednesday, December 19th: 1:05pm: Christmas Concert by Sine Nomine

Monday, December 24th Christmas Eve 5pm: Blessing the Crib service led by our younger children 11.15pm: Christmas Eve Communion service Christmas Day: 10.45am: Family Celebration Service Carol Singing Around the Village with friends from All Saints and Bethany churches from Wednesday December 19th Friday December 21st from 7pm, and outside the Whittaker Lounge on Saturday December 22nd, from 10.30am (For more information about these and other events at Beulah during December, please contact: secretary@beulahurc.org.uk)

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Win tickets to the ballet and To a singa-long

Win a Family Ticket to see The Nutcracker at St. David’s Hall What better way is there to get in the Christmas spirit than to enjoy a world class ballet with your loved ones at St David’s Hall? Their captivating series starts in style with Snow Maiden (Wednesday 19th–Thursday 20th December) before we are swept off to a mysterious place where nothing is really as it seems in The Nutcracker (Friday 21st–Monday 24th December). Then it’s the greatest romantic ballet of all time, Swan Lake (Thursday 27th–Saturday 29th December) and the spectacular season finishes with the wonderful rags to riches fairytale, Cinderella (Sunday 30th–Monday 31st

December). We have the perfect pre-Christmas treat for Rhiwbina Living readers too with a Family Ticket for 4 up for grabs to the festive favourite, The Nutcracker on Saturday 22nd December at 5.30pm. Feel the warmth of the open fire as presents lay beneath the tree, but it’s after midnight that the real magic happens! Watch with astonishment as toys spring to life before your eyes, and the treacherous Mouse King battles the handsome Nutcracker Prince. To be in with a chance of winning a Family Ticket for 4, please answer the following question:

Who does the handsome prince battle in The Nutcracker? a) The Rat King b) The Mouse King c) The Ferret King Please email your answer to SDHpress@cardiff.gov.uk by Friday 14th December 2018 along with your full name and address, plus a phone number. Alternatively, please post your entry with your contact details to: Marketing Team, St David’s Hall, The Hayes, CF10 1AH. Family Tickets can be made up of any combination of adults and children, but must include at least one adult.

Win a pair of tickets to Sing-a-Long-a The Greatest Showman

The Greatest Showman was the smash hit film of 2018, and now the whole family can sing along to its stunning soundtrack at St David’s Hall! Sing-a-Long-a The Greatest Showman is the perfect present this Christmas for fans of the magnificent movie, and it’s coming to the National Concert Hall of Wales in February. Cheer on Hugh Jackman, lust after

Zach Efron and hiss at Rebecca Ferguson as you experience The Greatest Showman in the greatest way possible – with lyrics on the screen so you can join in as loud and proud as you want. From the makers of Sing-a-Long-a Sound of Music and Sing-a-Long-a Grease, this extravaganza features a live host to teach you the unique set of dance moves and how to use your interactive prop bags; plus how to practice your cheers, boos and even a few wolf whistles. Fancy dress is strongly encouraged and full audience participation essential. YOU, the audience will rewrite the stars! To be in with a chance of winning a pair of tickets to Sing-a-Long-a The Greatest Showman at St David’s Hall on Saturday 2nd February at 7pm, please answer the following question:

What is the name of the actor who plays P.T. Barnum in the film, The Greatest Showman? a) Hugh Laurie b) Hugh Grant c) Hugh Jackman Please email your answer to SDHpress@cardiff.gov.uk by Monday 21st January 2019 along with your full name and address, plus a phone number. Alternatively, please post your entry with your contact details to: Marketing Team, St David’s Hall, The Hayes, CF10 1AH.

® CARDIFF’S BEST LOVED ASIAN RESTAURANTS

BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY CELEBRATIONS T READ Y

1989-201

30 YEAR S RH IWBINA

THE C E BRATIONS

Enjoy a Christmas get together at Juboraj We’d like you to have your festive get together knowing that our prices are the same over the Christmas period as they are all year round. There will be no seasonal adjustments. If you’d like to discuss a large party then please contact a member of staff as usual and we will be more than happy to accommodate.

R FO

Juboraj Group would like to wish all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. Thank you for your continued support over the past year – we are looking forward to the year ahead, our 30th Anniversary Year!

CHRISTMAS OPENING HOURS (Rhiwbina)

AVAILABLE

NOW

www.juborajgroup.com

ATIO

11 Heol Y Deri, Rhiwbina | 029 2062 8894

G AND

ERV

LUNCH | EVENING | PARTIES

N RI

JUBORAJ RESTAURANTS

INE ORD

28.12.18: 5.30pm–11pm 29.12.18: 12pm–2pm; 5.30pm–11pm 30.12.18: Closed 31.12.18: 12pm–2pm; 5pm–LATE

24.12.18: 12pm–2pm; 5pm–11pm 25.12.18: Closed 26.12.18: Closed 27.12.18: 12pm–2pm; 5pm–11pm

2 3 5

PERFECT PRESENTS 1. Cardiff landscape paper cut lamp £35 Designed and exclusive to Cooper’s, this Limited Edition hand made LED paper cut lamp lights up the iconic landmarks of Cardiff. Coopers, Rhiwbina

2.Redken Christmas cracker £8.50 The holidays are here and Redken has got Christmas all wrapped up in this festive cracker that contains shampoo and conditioner. Coray and Co, Rhiwbina

3. Music centre £299 An all-in-one music centre which can record to CD directly from your vinyl record collection of 33s, 45s, 75s and even your cassette tapes. Comes with remote control. Budd Electricals, Birchgrove

Rhiwbina and our villages have everything we need for a memorable Christmas. We've hand-picked some of the best Christmas gifts from our local shops

4. Wooden star light £30 This gorgeous wooden star depicts a woodland scene, complete with wooden branches and deer - all topped off with LED lights for a festive feel. Secret Shed, Rhiwbina

5. Silver reindeer £62 This beautiful silver reindeer will look great on any side table or even as a central table piece for Christmas meals. Holds up to five large candles on his antlers. Victoria Fearn, Rhiwbeina

6. Dog mugs and bowls from £15.95 Step up the rivalry with this bold statement mug to categorically prove that the dog loves you best! Completely dishwasher and microwave safe. Flower Lodge, Rhiwbina

6 7

9 8

12 11 ises Cartwright Travel & Passion for Cru Holiday Voucher

£150 Date

Signature

Terms & Conditions apply.

7. Bamboo socks £6 a pair You can't go wrong giving socks at Christmas and these bamboo socks from Thought are consciously-crafted using some of the planet's strongest, softest and most sustainable fabric. Calon Rhiwbeina

8. 'Christmas Carol' gift pack £14.99 These Bomb Cosmetic gift packs are completely environmentally friendly, handmade and bursting with essential oils for a real treat this Christmas. Pughs Garden Centre, Radyr

Minimum Spend £1,000.00

9. All Soft Mega sheet mask £10 The perfect gift for a teacher or an ideal stocking filler. A weekly, one-time use treatment inspired by facial sheet masks, delivering longlasting moisture. Michelle Marshall Salon, Rhiwbina

per person | Voucher valid

until January 2020

10. Santa’s Sleigh Is On Its Way To Cardiff £4.99 A brilliant book for Christmas for anyone living in Cardiff or from Cardiff, who wants their children to enjoy the magic of Christmas Eve! Little People Store, Rhiwbina

11. Holiday voucher £150 (recommended) Treat your loved ones to some money off their dream holiday or cruise when they book with the Top Travel Agency in Wales for the last two years! Passion for Cruises, Rhiwbina

12. Green Egg Mini Max £625 Get big flavour in a compact portable package with the Mini Max Big Green Egg & Carrier. Perfect for adventures or cooking smaller amounts of food on the go. Topstak, Cowbridge

feature

Christmas advent calendar The build up to Christmas is a wonderful time of year - festive fun, joviality and goodwill to all men. Or it is? Here's our guide Ah. The first day of December. Christmas is finally here. The advent calendars make an appearance, a glut of Christmas trees appear in Rhiwbina's windows and the well-prepared take their frozen Bernard Matthews turkey out of the freezer to defrost. You reward yourself by opening your new tub of Quality Street.

Most of the houses in the village are already dressed for Christmas. You remain defiant but you can’t help feeling that your house now looks a little dour. ‘There’s still a few weeks to go yet, there’s still a few weeks to go yet,’ you repeat to yourself over and over.

You promise yourself that you’re never drinking again. You spend the day moping around the house with a face like a slapped backside. Bah humbug.

Time to deep clean the house, ready for Christmas. You get as far as getting the hoover out but you put it away again and promise yourself to give the house a spring clean in the New Year.

A Christmas card arrives from your great aunt who lives the other side of the world. Panic-stricken, you realise that you’ve missed the international last posting date. Looks like Dolly’s not going to get a card this year. Like last year and the year before that.

You’re back in the game. After a good sleep, the hangover’s gone. A friend invites you for a few Christmas drinks in a few weeks time. With memories of the Christmas party now in the distant past, you enthusiastically agree.

You sit down and write your Christmas card list but you get distracted by Strictly Come Dancing that's just come on the telly. You leave the cards for another night.

The works Christmas party. The night starts with a few quiet Babychams in your kitchen and ends up in Kebab King in Caroline Street at 3am the next morning. Having out-sung your boss at Abba karaoke, you’re now eating your own weight in chips and doner.

Your tub of Quality Street lies empty. The shame of it. You convince yourself that it’s ok because it’s Christmas. A new tub is bought and order is restored to the house. And because it’s Christmas, you even start putting the empty wrappers back in the tub. It’s the kid’s nativity play. You get there early to get front row seats but there's someone there already. You’ve got nothing against the young girl who got the main part of Mary but you do hope she messes up on the big day, especially since your kids never get a look in for the leading roles. Meanwhile, your child plays the part of 6th shepherd with Oscar-winning panache.

You decide to bake a Christmas pudding but quickly realise that you should have started it in February. Maybe something for next year. You pack away the recipe book and take out a bottle of wine. Far more interesting.

You head to the shops to buy a replacement set of 2000 Christmas lights but the shelf is empty. You have to make do by buying four sets of 500 lights and a multi-plug extension. This is going to get messy.

You jump in the car and head into town to do some shopping but parking’s a nightmare. You spot one free space but there’s a sign that reads ‘No Parking’. You park in it anyway – this is an important mission.

Preparations are beginning to get you stressed so you try some meditation for the first time. You light some candles, hush the dog with a chewy bone and take a deep breath. Then your phone rings.

You wake up the next morning splayed out on your dining room table. By the looks of it, you’ve attempted to get undressed for bed but given up halfway through. Someone’s stuck a used chewing gum on your forehead. It takes another day to recover. This time, you’re never drinking again and that’s a definite.

It's Christmas movie time with the kids. While they watch Home Alone for the 50th time, you set about writing the cards that should have been written and sent three weeks ago. Finally, you're getting things done.

Only one more day. Your stocks of Quality Street are running dangerously low. If anyone else asks you if you’re ready for Christmas, you may find yourself on Crimestoppers and on the front of the Echo.

You finally succumb to putting up the decorations. You spend the next three hours carefully winding your 2000 Christmas lights around the tree, making sure that they're evenly spaced, only to find afterwards that they don't work.

Time to start thinking about getting some Christmas food in. Tesco resembles feeding time at the zoo so you head for the relative calm and solace of the baked bean aisle. You dread to think what Marksies will be like.

Your online order finally arrives but you’re out at the Post Office sorting office picking up the parcel you missed yesterday when you were putting up the decorations. You head to pick up your second parcel from the Post Office, only to find that you’ve missed a third parcel while you’re there.

It’s the night out with a friend. You promise yourself that after the work’s Christmas party, you’ll be good. You’re going to have a quiet one. Honest.

School’s out for another year. Hundreds of kids make their way home, heads full of festive excitement at the large and expensive gifts they’ve asked Santa for. Parents brace themselves for two weeks of sugar-fuelled purgatory and wretchedness. It’s Christmas after all.

You’ve learnt from last year not to start wrapping presents at 9pm on Christmas Eve. You lay out all your gifts on the floor and feel smugly organised. But you then realise that you’ve not bought any Sellotape. It’ll have to wait for another day. You open a very important letter to discover that you’ve been fined for parking in a ‘No Parking’ space in town.

Finally. Bedraggled. Exhausted. You drag yourself into Christmas Eve. Door 24 of your advent calendar is opened before you head to the Co-op to buy 56 loaves of bread and 90 pints of milk to see you through until they open again on Boxing Day. With the shops finally closed, you sit down in front of the telly with a glass of sherry. You reach into the tub of Quality Street, only to find empty wrappers. And then you remember that you’ve still got the presents to wrap!

LONG LIVE THE QUEENS

Coray and Co 238 Pantbach Road Rhiwbina Cardiff CF14 6AX

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Offering a range of legal services for you and your business. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re your friendly local solicitors, working hard to get the best outcome for you. Our legal services include: l Commercial Business l Conveyancing l Crime l Disputes

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Changing the way you see lawyers. 02920 619700 solicitors@jahughes.com 89 Beulah Road, Rhiwbina, Cardiff, CF14 6LW

Dentistry, Differently Imran and Emily Kassam of CLOVES DENTAL CARE in Rhiwbina tell you a little bit about themselves and their new dental practice with a difference Imran and Emily met while studying at Cardiff University. They married at The Vale Resort in Hensol in September 2017, which you may have seen featured in a documentary on BBC One Wales called The Wedding Guru. The couple are now in the exciting process of setting up their very own dental practice in Rhiwbina which will open in January 2019. They are both extremely passionate about offering something a bit different to the public, with the aim of changing the perception of Dentistry within the UK. Their vision is to offer not just a dental practice that treats teeth - they will be treating the patient as a whole, providing

confidence and long-term peace of mind. From the moment you step into Cloves Dental Care, you will feel the difference. To relax before your appointment, you will be offered a selection of hot and cold beverages, including freshly brewed tea, coffee or hot chocolate. Read a newspaper and snack on a fresh apple provided for you on a daily basis. You can even relax on a massage chair in the waiting room while your kids are entertaining themselves with the iPads or books provided in the children’s area. The dream is to make the dental visit more like a trip to your favourite restaurant or bar, creating

Core Values

• Delivering excellence, clinically and nonclinically every time. Consistency is important. • Evolving the way dentistry is delivered by creating positive and unforgettable experiences. • Build a positive team and family spirit. • Pursue growth and learning. • Build a stronger community.

a similar type of environment - an experience you will want to share with people (otherwise known as the patient journey) from start to finish. The couple love getting involved in the community already, having taken part in the Rhiwbina Summer Festival in June and sponsoring and taking part in local Charity Rachel’s Day events, raising awareness for sepsis. Imran is also a member of Rhiwbina Tennis Club. Make sure you check them out on social media and book your Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment or Complimentary Cosmetic Consultation for 2019. New year, new you!

Their Services

• General care and family dentistry • Teeth Whitening • Botox, Dermal Fillers • Teeth straightening • Veneers, Crowns, Bridges • Dental Implants • Emergency Dental Care • Dentures

“My family of five are seen every six months by Imran. He always carries out a thorough dental examination, any necessary dental work and provides good advice for all the family. Just recently my five year old son needed to have his front baby tooth removed after damage caused by teeth grinding. This procedure was carried out by Imran. He was excellent with my little boy, constantly reassuring him whilst performing the procedure. I was provided with verbal and written aftercare advice and Imran personally telephoned me a week later to check everything was healing well. I am very happy with the treatment provided by Imran Thank you for everything.” Mrs Anna Evans

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT ONLINE NOW

www.clovesdentalcare.co.uk info-Rhiwbina@clovesdentalcare.co.uk 165 Pantbach Road, Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 1TZ Mr Imran Kassam BDS Hons (Cardiff) MFDS RCS (Edin) P.G Cert.Rest Dent (BARD) Mrs Emily Kassam DipHE (Cardiff)

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Your pet questions answered

Chris Troughton is clinical director of Heath Vets. He’s here to answer all your pet questions. If you’d like to ask Chris a pet-related question, drop us a line My dog is a cross between a spaniel and a poodle. Given this, how do I work out an ideal weight for him and apart from him becoming morbidly obese, how do I work out whether he’s overweight? Look at him! Whether your dog is a pedigree, ‘designer cross’ or just plain mutt, the most accurate way to decide if his weight is right is to look at him and feel his body condition. Weights set down in the breed standard for pedigree dogs might suit an average dog, but every one is an individual, with his own unique shape, and trying to make a non-average dog conform to the breed standard can be problematic. Body condition scoring has been around for many years and there are several systems for doing it. The one we use is advocated by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association, and you can find the details by searching online. Essentially, dogs are assessed by feeling the ribs and vertebrae for muscle and fat cover and observing body shape (particularly the waist). A score is allocated between 1 and 9. The ideal score is 4 or 5, and with these dogs, the ribs are felt without much fat covering, and the waist is visible from above and the side. So if you can feel your dog’s ribs without having to press hard, and you can see his waistline, he’s probably about right. If you have any doubts, call in to your vets and ask their opinion. They will also be able to weigh him and record his weight. That number is important, not because it tells you if he’s fat or thin, but because when compared to future measurements, it tells you if he is losing or gaining weight, and helps to guide you with appropriate nutritional advice. A friend of mine in the US owns an old Labrador and the dog

was recently diagnosed with Lyme Disease. She says that the dog’s illness was contracted by a tick bite and that her dog was very ill for a while. I wanted to know whether Lyme Disease is something that we get here in the UK as Google seems to give conflicting information! Lyme Disease is a very nasty condition which can affect people as well as dogs and other animals. It is caused by a bacterium called Borrelia bugdorferi which is transmitted by tick bites and it is found in many parts of the world including North America, mainland Europe and UK. It can cause severe illness, but more usually the symptoms are of joint and muscle pain, fever, loss of appetite and generally feeling poorly, and these often come and go over a period of time. Diagnosis is by a blood test, and with prolonged treatment most dogs get better. Ticks are common in long grass, woodland etc, so for all dogs that are walked in these sort of areas I recommend treating for ticks regularly from spring through until autumn, and at mild periods in winter too. As long as the tick is killed within a few hours of biting, it will not have the chance to pass on the infection. We recommend a monthly tablet which kills not only ticks, but also fleas, roundworms and lungworms. If you find a tick on your dog (or yourself) it is very important not to just pull it off as you could squeeze it and encourage the transmission of disease, and you could leave the mouthparts embedded in the skin to cause a reaction later. Instead, use special tweezers or a tick hook (available form most vets and a useful addition to your first aid kit). Lyme Disease in people can be very unpleasant and have lifelong consequences. It is contracted from tick bites in the same way, and

an infected dog poses NO risk to people. We bought a few rabbits over the summer and my husband built them a hutch and a run in the garden so that they can live outside. With the winter weather, my natural instinct is to bring them indoors but my husband insists that they are wild animals and can deal with colder temperatures. Who is right? Rabbits are actually quite hardy and will thrive outdoors as long as they have shelter. Their hutch must be waterproof but well ventilated, with plenty of hay or straw for bedding. There should be separate sleeping and living spaces, and areas where the rabbits can go to avoid each other. If the weather is particularly cold, a piece of old carpet over the hutch will add some extra insulation. The run doesn’t need to be entirely covered but if some of it is covered, the rabbits can choose to avoid the rain if they wish. I’m very pleased to hear you have a number of bunnies together, They are a very social species and the idea of rabbits living singly in a hutch is awful. However, more bunnies means more space needed in both hutch and run. The Welsh Government launched a Code of Practice for rabbit welfare several years ago (find it online, or you can get copies from our surgeries) and this sets out recommendations for how much space should be provided. The space issue could well prevent you from housing all your tribe indoors in the winter!

Mortgage and Protection Advisor Chris Ashley CeMAP 07813 076548 chris@mpinvestment.co.uk 1st Floor offices, 15 Pantbach Road, Birchgrove, Cardiff CF14 1TU

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Our local team of friendly reliable carers specialise in assisting people who may need a helping hand with day-to-day tasks in their own home • Companionship • Meal preparation • Light house keeping • Medicine reminders • Help with washing, dressing and personal care • Transport and errands • Post-operative support • Holiday and respite cover • Managed live-in 24 hour care as an alternative to a care home

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Winter Walk

outdoors

Fill up your flask, jump in the car and head out for a bracing winter walk

At this time of year, you should find plenty of parking on Penarth seafront so park you car there and begin your walk at Penarth Pier. Head along the seafront walkway, along the beach and past the cafĂŠs and shops, and up into the park on the cliff-top. At the end of the park, the path becomes slightly rougher and you pass through some trees. Your view of the sea on your lefthand side will become obscured by the hedges but it will offer up some glimpses. Continue on this path. It soon drops to beach level and rises once again. This is where Guglielmo Marconi, assisted by George Kemp (who was a Cardiff based Post Office engineer) transmitted and received the world's first wireless signals over open sea. They transmitted between Lavernock Point and Flat Holm island - about 3 miles out to sea. The very first message transmitted in Morse Code was "ARE YOU READY". Soon, the path takes a right hand turn onto a minor asphalt road and passes St Lawrence's Church. Attached to the church's perimeter wall is a bronze plaque erected by the Cardiff Rotary Club in 1948 to mark the 50th anniversary of Marconi's transmission. The path then heads inland around the large holiday park of static caravans. It's called the Marconi Holiday Village and behind this is a nature reserve. Shortly after passing the reserve, you come across the abandoned ruins of the Lavernock

Fort. The fort was completed in 1870, with three 7" muzzle loading cannons to protect the channel approaches to Cardiff and Bristol shipyards. Sometime before 1895, the gun battery was reinforced with a fourth cannon, only for all four guns then to be replaced eight years later by two rapid fire six inch (152 mm) former naval guns in 1903. A two unit searchlight battery was added during the Second World War. The World War II gun emplacements formed part of the Fixed Defences and protected the Atlantic shipping convoys degrouping zone between Cardiff, Barry and Flat Holm. Today the remaining main section of the gun battery has been listed as an Ancient Monument, which includes the gun emplacements, director-rangefinder observation position, and the crew and officers quarters. The structure is still commemorated through Lavernock Point's main access road being named Fort Road. A little further on, a Royal Observation Corps observation post which was later converted into a nuclear bunker sits on the top of the cliff above St Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Well Bay. Half a mile further on, you arrive in the seaside hamlet of Swanbridge and the welcoming Captain's Wife pub, where you can take a break with some food and drink. After leaving the pub, the path hugs the coastline, taking you past Sully Sailing Club and a cricket ground. The path can be quite pebbly here so take care. Before long, you will reach the site of the former Sully Hospital. The path will swing inland once again and take you past some of Barry's industrial sites. You will find yourself on the A4055 that takes you into Barry. You will eventually reach a small Please take care while out walking and dress appropriately. Living Magazines Ltd cannot accept responsibility for your safety on this walk.

roundabout at Cadoxton. Take the first exit and this will take you in the direction of Barry Docks. Head past the Barry Docks Offices on your right and continue down past the retail park also on your right and on towards the Asda superstore. This is where Dai Woodham's famous Engine's Graveyard used to be. Here sat 200 former British Railways steam locomotives, saved from the scrapheap in the 1960s and 1970s. Many of these were later purchased by preserved railways and locomotive preservation groups and are now in active operation, including some permitted to haul passenger trains on the main line system.

The road will bring you out at Barry Island's former Cosy Corner, near the fairground. The Barry Island peninsula was an island until the 1880s when it was linked to the mainland as the town of Barry expanded. This was partly due to the opening of Barry Dock by the Barry Railway Company. Established by David Davies, the docks now link up the gap which used to form Barry Island. You can now either take a walk along the promenades, grab a warming drink and a bag of chips, or jump on a train back to Penarth, changing at Grangetown.

Vibrant Gardens

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Regular lawn mowing Lawn feed, weed and moss control Hard surface jet washing Scarification and power raking Hedge and shrub pruning Driveway weed and moss control

Everything you need to have that well-manicured garden Call Stuart on 07779 132149 for a free quote www.vibrant-gardens.co.uk 19 Mayflower Avenue, Llanishen Cardiff CF14 5HP

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Are you looking after your hearing? We’re here to give you FREE advice and answer any questions you may have about your hearing health. Viney Hearing Care is holding a week of events to promote hearing awareness in the community. Call today to attend any of our events. Spaces will be limited.

Hearing Awareness Week February 11th-15th 2019

Monday 11th

FREE Microsuction The SAFEST way to clean your ears. If you have problems with dull or itching ears, it could be wax blocking your ear canals. Come and have a FREE hearing health check to see if wax is the problem. If it is, we can remove it with the latest and SAFEST techniques. Places will be limited (Normal cost £45)

Wednesday 13th Latest hearing instrument technology demonstrations

Do you struggle to hear in company, watching the TV or on the phone? We understand that having hearing loss can make these listening situations very difficult. Allow us to demonstrate how the latest connective wireless technology can take away the strain of listening and see how easy it can be to enjoy these simple pleasures again. Book your free appointment to see how the latest wireless technology could improve your quality of hearing.

Thursday 14th

Exhibition of the world’s smallest hearing instruments The new era of ‘invisible hearing’. We work with the world’s leading hearing instrument manufacturers to provide the most discreet instruments with the finest hearing quality. Instruments that you can’t see and can’t feel - just excellent hearing in all walks of life. Book an appointment for your FREE hearing screen and a demonstration of invisible hearing.

Limited spaces

Tuesday 12th

FREE Tinnitus management skills

Tinnitus affects 1 in 10 people in the UK. It’s classed as a noise that comes from your head and not the environment around you. Tinnitus has many causes and can severely disrupt people’s lives and that’s why it’s important to know how to manage it. If you are curious, distressed or concerned, we can help so please call to book your FREE session.

Friday 15th Speech Mapping

Do you wear hearing aids but still feel that you aren’t hearing the full picture? Is speech clarity a problem for you? Speech mapping is the latest revolutionary way to test the performance of your hearing aids and to see how well they help you hear. You will be provided with a print out of your hearing aid results and information on how speech can be improved for you. Call today as places will be limited.

Viney Hearing Centre 66 Merthyr Road Whitchurch, Cardiff CF14 1DJ

029 2025 0121

www.vineyhearingcare.co.uk

outside the box

In a time of consumerism and hoarding, giving gifts at Christmas doesn't have to involve buying things. There are other ways

Experiences

Stocking fillers are all well and good but the likelihood is that they'll be forgotten about a few days later. Memories on the other hand - they last a lifetime. Real-life experiences nurture the soul and inspire future exploration. And they needn't be expensive experiences either. Travel these days can be cheap - why not book a coach trip to Cornwall or West Wales? Even a family walk somewhere new needn't cost the earth. If you have the budget, there are plenty of companies offering unforgettable experiences balloon rides, days out driving high-performance cars or even flight lessons.

Gifts that grow

A potted herb garden or a terranium is a gift that will give continuous joy throughout the coming year. A miniature garden in the home can come in various sizes, assortments and styles that will need attending to and looking after. According to research, interacting with plants increases levels of happiness and calmness. What more could anyone ask for?

Time

If there's one thing that most of us don't seem to have - it's time. But we do. It's all about making the time. Putting aside time to spend with friends and family doesn't necessarily cost anything. But to the person receiving your time, it means the earth. Grab yourself a new diary and pencil in some dates with loved ones. Organise yourself so that you can still get all the things you need to get done. You can then enjoy your quality time without worrying about all the chores and work that weighs us all down.

gifts

Made with love If you have the skills to create something yourself,

whether it be baking, sewing or anything creative, a homemade gift is something very special. Even if you're not necessarily talented in that area, a gift that is handmade shows that you've spent time thinking about your recipient, and that's what makes it special. It also gives you the opportunity to personalise your present. Putting love into your gift is worth more than how much cash you spend. There are plenty of ideas online to help create a wonderful and unique gift - ranging from homemade bath bombs, chutneys and bookmarks through to more intricate presents ranging from hand-made earrings and wine racks. The only thing holding you back is your imagination!

Memberships Golf clubs, gyms, museums, historical

homes, season tickets or even Netflix or NOW TV - there are countless ways to give a membership. Setting someone up for the year ahead will give them something to look forward to for months on end. It also goes to show that you've really thought about what to get them for Christmas. Consider also things like breakdown cover for their car - it may not be the most exciting present you've ever given but it could come in very useful later on down the line.

Favours Sometimes, the things that people

really want just can't be wrapped up and popped underneath a Christmas tree. Has a member of your family been waiting years to have their garden cleared? Is there someone who has been wanting to visit a local gardening centre but can't get there themselves? Creating a booklet of favours can put a smile on the face of a loved one - just be aware that knocking a booklet up on Christmas morning as you've not bought anything will not go unnoticed!

Lessons People love to learn, especially a

new skill. Is there someone who's always wanted to pick up a guitar? Is there someone who's always dreamed of speaking Italian? Does someone need cookery skills? Knowledge like this can last a lifetime and by giving them the building blocks to learn, you could be giving them the gift of a whole new hobby or even a new career!

Eco-friendly You can support the world we

live in and give a great present by giving an eco-friendly gift. Buying from organisations that support nature and wildlife provides them with valuable income and your loved ones with a quality present. Reusable coffee mugs are very much the way to go and gifts like bags, scarves and jigsaws are also sold by the Woodland Trust, the National Trust and charities. Look out for gifts that carry the Fair Trade logo too - you can relax knowing that the present you are buying is ethical.

Personalised entertainment

If you've got a talent or skill that you can put to good use, create a personalised gift that will make someone feel very special. If you enjoy poetry, pen a personalised poem; if you are musically gifted, write a song; if you like writing short stories, make one up just for them! These are the kind of gifts that you can't buy anywhere - in fact, you don't need to spend very much at all!

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CHRISTMAS EVE SUPPER The shopping's done. The gifts are wrapped. All you need to do now is relax. Here are some delicious recipes to help you unwind on Christmas Eve

Bacon and cheese mushrooms 3 slices streaky bacon 8 cremini mushrooms 1 tablespoon butter 1 tablespoon chopped onion 90g (3 oz) grated Cheddar cheese chives to garnish

☐ Grill or place the bacon in a large, deep frying pan. Cook over a medium high heat until evenly brown. Remove, dice and set aside. ☐ Preheat the oven to 200°C/Gas mark 6. ☐ Remove the mushroom stems. Set aside the caps. Chop the stems. ☐ In a saucepan over a medium heat, melt the butter. Slowly cook and stir the chopped stems and the onion until soft. Remove from heat. ☐ In a medium bowl, stir together the mushroom stem mixture, the bacon and two thirds of the Cheddar. Mix well and scoop the mixture into the mushroom caps. ☐ Bake in the preheated oven 15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted. ☐ Remove the mushrooms from the oven, and sprinkle with the remaining cheese and chopped chives.

Mini toad in the holes 110g plain flour pinch of salt 2 whole eggs 300ml milk 10g melted butter oil for greasing tins 6 pork sausages ☐ Sieve the flour and the salt into a bowl, and make a little pit to drop

the eggs into. Using a whisk, stir in the mixture, drawing the flour to the centre. Add the milk and keep whisking, then add the butter. Put aside for 1 hour. ☐ Lightly fry the sausages to brown them. They don't need to be fully cooked as they will be cooked later in the oven. ☐ Generously grease a deep 12 hole muffin tin and put half a sausage in each hole and then place the tray in preheated to 200°C (Gas mark 6) oven. Bake for about 3 minutes until the grease is hot. ☐ Take the tray out of the oven and fill each hole to two-thirds full with the batter. Put the tray back in the oven straight away and bake for a further 20 minutes, or until everything is well risen and golden brown. Serve warm.

food

Devils on horseback 30 pitted prunes 240ml tawny port 1 tablespoon granulated sugar 10 thin slices smoky bacon, cut crosswise into thirds 30 toothpicks, soaked in water for at least 15 minutes ☐ Heat the oven to 250°C and arrange a rack in the middle. ☐ Combine the prunes, port and sugar in a medium saucepan. Bring it to a boil over a high heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Reduce the heat to medium low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the port thickens into a loose syrup - about 15 minutes. Let cool slightly, for about 10 minutes, then drain the prunes of excess syrup. ☐ Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminium foil, then set a cooling rack over the foil. ☐ Wrap a piece of bacon around each prune and secure with a toothpick. Place the prunes at least 1 inch apart on the cooling rack. Bake for 7 minutes, then flip the prunes with tongs and continue to bake until crispy - about 7 to 9 minutes more. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Cool slightly before serving.

Smoked salmon and cream cheese cucumber bites 2 cucumbers, peeled and cut into 1" circles 450g smoked salmon, cut into bite sized pieces 200g cream cheese 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped 1 tablespoon horseradish (more or less to taste) toothpicks or tiny party forks ☐ Peel the cucumbers and slice them into 1" circles. Arrange on a platter as desired. Place in the refrigerator while preparing the cream cheese. ☐ Place the cream cheese, dill, horseradish, and cream in a large bowl. Beat or mix until well combined. ☐ Spread 1 teaspoon of cream cheese on top of each cucumber slice (more or less to taste), then top each slice with a bite sized piece of smoked salmon. Insert a toothpick down the centre to keep in place. ☐ Serve at once, or keep in the refrigerator until needed.

Home-baked cheese and onion bites 400g Jus Roll puff pastry sheet 2 medium potatoes 30g butter 2 large onions, sliced a few thyme sprigs, leaves picked ½ teaspoon English mustard 200g vegetarian extra mature cheddar, grated handful gherkins or pickled onions (or a mixture), roughly chopped ☐ Preheat the oven to 200°C degrees (Gas mark 6). ☐ Boil the potatoes in a pan of salted water until they are tender. Remove them from the pan, drain them and let them dry for a few minutes before mashing them. Place the potato in a large bowl. ☐ Melt the butter in a hot frying pan until it's foaming and then add the onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally over a medium heat until they are completely soft and start to caramelise. Place them in the bowl with the mashed potato. ☐ Once everything in the bowl has cooled, add the cheese, the mustard, the thyme leaves, the gherkins or pickled onions and season to taste. Put to one side while you work on the pastry. ☐ Line a baking tray with some parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll the pastry out

into a large rectangle around 3mm thick. Cut the pastry into eight rectangles, then divide the filling equally between them, squashing it into a sausage shape down the long length of one side of each rectangle, leaving a 5cm gap at each end. Brush the exposed pastry with a little egg, then fold in the short sides of the rectangle and roll the empty half of pastry over the filling so that it is completely encased. ☐ Repeat this with each roll. To seal the edges, crimp down the ends with a fork and repeat for each roll. Transfer each roll to the lined baking tray and pop them in the fridge for 20 minutes. ☐ Take the rolls out of the fridge and brush them with a beaten egg. You can sprinkle nigella seeds on top if you wish. ☐ Bake on the top shelf of the oven for 40 minutes, or until your bites are golden and crispy. ☐ Serve in a bowl or a basket with red or brown sauce.

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Michelle Marshall SALON has had a very busy 2018 but an incredibly fun one!

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Michelle has had the exciting opportunity of being asked to teach in the Redken Exchange, New York City a number of times throughout the year, gaining a mass of international followers in the process. Our manager Jaime has been in London for the Aussie Blonde Technique with the International Blonding Expert Sheree Knobel (Insta @shereeknobel_bixiecolour) and our stylists Teigan and Jess have spent a lot of hours in London at L’Oreal on educational courses, enabling us as a salon to grow and give our guests the best up to date colouring techniques and services. Heidi has just started her maternity leave and won’t be joining us back in the salon until Spring 2019 and as usual, the salon wouldn’t run the same without the help of our dedicated assistants Josh, Sharon, Vicki and Emma. As a thank you to all our lovely guests this year, we have some fantastic offers on products and services in salon that would make perfect Christmas presents or something to spoil yourself or your partner. From all of us at Michelle Marshall SALON, we wish you a Happy Christmas 2018.

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24/12/18 20:45 A short Christmas story "The train at Platform 4 is the 20.45 to Cardiff Central," said the station announcer. "This is the final train to Cardiff. Thank you and Merry Christmas." Matt pulled up the sleeve of his heavy coat to look at his watch. 20.42. London Paddington was beginning to close down for Christmas. The shutters of the shops were being lowered down and one by one, the last trains were pulling out into the night. Matt had less than three minutes to board his. But he was waiting. Waiting for a brother he hadn't seen in 8 years. And by the looks of it, his brother was not about to make his promised appearance. Matt looked around one last time. Nothing apart from a woman in a heavy hat and coat who passed by him and stepped on to the train. Reluctantly, Matt climbed aboard and slumped into one of four seats, near the window. He placed his hands onto the empty table in front of him and sighed heavily. He'd failed. Or rather, he had been failed. He took out his phone and laid it on the table in front of him. He scrolled down and picked out a number. Then he dialled it and held it to his ear. "Hi. Mum. No. He didn't show." Matt's voice was quiet and subdued. He listened while his mother said a few words. "Ok. Listen. I don't have much battery left at all so I'm turning my phone off. I'll speak to you when I get back home. I'm expecting to be back about eleven. Ok. Bye. Love you."

Matt squeezed his phone until it buzzed and the screen disappeared. He then put his phone away in his pocket. He had no one he wished to talk to anyway. It had been a long day and he still had a two hour train journey back to Cardiff. He took out a small can of beer from his coat pocket and cracked it open. The train slowly rumbled out of Paddington station, clickety-clacking over the cold steel rails as it set a course for home. A warm aroma of coffee drifted over the head rests. The bright lights of London eventually faded and gave way to Matt's reflection in the train window. He took a sip of his beer. It was warm where it had been in his pocket but at least it still had a bit of fizz to it. Before he knew it, he'd drifted off and was only woken by the sounds of shuffling and murmuring. They'd arrived at the next station. Matt rubbed his eyes as the lights of Reading train station flooded in from outside. The concrete platform looked hard and cold and on the ground, there was a scattering of orange grit. After a few minutes, the train gave a slight shunt and began hauling out of the station. A woman shuffled up the aisle, dragging behind her a small suitcase on wheels. She stopped, pushed down the handle and tried to lift it into the overhead locker. The weight caught her by surprise and she was blocking everyone but she was helped by a tall old man stood who was stood behind her. Matt gazed out of the window,

into the darkness and into the living rooms of the homes that they were slowly passing. He could make out the warm bloom of lights in the houses and in one bedroom, he could see a small boy climbing into bed with his stocking. Matt's mind drifted back to the Christmas Eve nights that he shared with his brother in their childhood bedroom. They'd snuggle up, stay awake and guess what presents Santa would be bringing them that night. Matt's nostalgic thoughts were rudely disturbed by the tall old man who'd been coming down the aisle. "Anyone sitting here?" he asked, pointing to the seat opposite Matt. Matt looked around the almost empty carriage but the old man was already sitting down and unbuttoning his coat. He removed his woolly hat and placed it on his lap. Then he took out a toffee in a wrapper and began unwrapping it. This was the last thing Matt wanted. Some old codger talking. "Reckon you'll be home before the snow comes?" asked the old man. "What snow?" "The snow that's on its way." "Oh. Don't tell me. The perfect stereotypical snow on Christmas Eve scenario," Matt replied. He really wasn't in the mood to talk. "Long day?" asked the old man. "Something like that." The old man sensed Matt's grumpiness. He finally released the toffee from its wrapper and put it in his mouth, placing the wrapper on the table. For a few seconds, he swished the toffee around his mouth, looking Matt up and down. "So why the long face?" asked the Photograph by Matt Buck

short story man. Women trouble?" "No. Nothing like that." "Men trouble?" A laugh popped up from Matt's belly and out of his mouth. It was the first time he'd laughed all day. "Haha. No. Nothing like that either. Well sort of maybe." "It's all the rage these days, I hear." "No. I was supposed to be meeting my brother at Paddington. We were supposed to be coming back home together for Christmas. I haven't seen him in 8 years." "Where is he?" "That's a very good question." "He never showed up?" "No." "Well maybe he's getting a later train home." "No. This IS the last train home. He was getting this train." "How do you know?" "Because he told us. I've travelled all the way up to London to surprise him at Paddington." "And how do you know that he didn't get on this train?" "Because I stood at the end of the platform and watched every single person that got on. He always was a liar." Defeated, the old man finally went quiet. He crunched the small blob of toffee he had in his mouth and then sunk his hand back into his pocket. Matt guessed that the old man was in his mid eighties. His face was gaunt and thin, but his stubble was surprisingly dark for his age. His eyes seemed lost and his teeth seemed to protrude outwards from his jaw. He'd seen better days. The man finally pulled out something small from his pocket and popped it straight into his mouth. Matt didn't know what it was but guessed it was some sort of tablet. It definitely wasn't a toffee. The conversation had dried up. Matt looked out of the window at the passing towns that flashed and disappeared. In the distance of the far off homes, he could make out Christmases unfolding, each one different and each one filled with their own stories of joy and sadness. "How old are you?" asked the man. "23," said Matt. The man looked up to the roof of the train as if to recall something at the back of his mind. "On my 23rd birthday, I was in a POW camp in Germany." Matt rolled his eyes. 'Cue the old war hero act,' he thought. "God I missed my family. It would be another year before I spent Christmas at home again." Matt

braced himself for the old man's life story. "We were living in Liverpool at the time. We had a German POW with us for that particular Christmas as the Army staff needed some time off. It would have been easy to berate our guest but as I'd been in the same position the year before, I could tell he was nervous. I felt sorry for him because he tried his best to look presentable but only had a few belongings. My dad gave him a tie to wear. "Although there were rations on at the time, I could tell that my parents had tried their best. As our German friend was the Christmas guest, we gave him the largest portion of turkey. After Christmas night, I never saw him again and I'll always regret not asking him about himself. I regret not keeping in touch with him and I always wonder what kind of life he led after he left. He did say that his family back home were living in poverty thanks to the war but at least we had a roof over our head and food on the table. He had tears in his eyes when he first started eating." Matt managed a limp smile. It was a sweet story but Matt wondered if the man was trying to patronise him. "It's easy to judge people but you don't know what's going on in people's heads. You don't know what kind of lives they're leading and you don't know how close they are to giving up." Matt went quiet. He took out the second can of beer that he had hidden in his coat pocket and placed it on the table. "Do you want this?" he asked. "I'd brought it for him." "No. Thank you. I don't drink beer," said the man. He then reached deep into his coat pocket again and pulled out a hip flask. "I do drink whisky though." He unscrewed the lid and took a few long glugs. For the next hour and a quarter, the pair spoke at length. Matt's anger melted away and he was surprised to find that the man was both interesting and witty. He was slightly surprised then when the old man stood as the train rolled into Newport. "This is me," he said, buttoning up his coat. "You got anything nice planned for Christmas?" asked Matt. The man smiled. "No," he replied. "I'm seeing this one out on my own." Matt felt a little sad. "Well I hope it's a nice one anyway," he said. "Me too," said the man, pulling on

his woolly hat. "It'll be my last one." With that, he smiled at Matt, turned and headed down the aisle of the train. Matt eyes lingered at the back of the old man's woolly hat as the train came to a stop. There was a slight chill as the doors opened and the passengers alighted. A flurry of movement caught Matt's eye and he looked up to the overhead lights at the station. He could faintly see the first flakes of snow falling. The old man was right. Maybe it would be a White Christmas after all. The train slowly began to pull out of the station, and as it did, Matt saw the man stood on the platform. He stood directly looking at the train, looking out for Matt. As he slowly passed, he gave Matt a small wave and then disappeared into the cold night. The train suddenly felt very empty. Matt looked at the empty toffee wrapper that the man had left. He hadn't expected it but he'd enjoyed his time with the man. But then he realised that he would never see him again. Maybe he should have given the man a hug. He should have at least shook his hand and wished him a proper Christmas. He didn't know what was in the old man's head. He didn't know how close he was to giving up, whatever he was trying to hold on to. Matt lifted the near-empty can of beer, raised it to the window and wished the old man a Happy Christmas. The drive home from town was quiet. As he left the bustle of the city centre and headed out to the suburbs, Matt began to forgive his brother. Snow fell silently on the Rhiwbina streets as Matt weaved his way to his mother's house. As he parked up, he saw in the window the large star light that had been part of the family Christmases for years. Home. Matt put his key in the door and turned it. The door swung open and there before him was his brother, complete with woollen Christmas sweater and a Santa hat. "Ah," said his brother. "Where have you been? I tried calling to let you know I'd got an earlier train but your phone was off. Merry Christmas," he said, raising a glass of sherry. Matt stepped forward and squeezed his brother tight. "Merry Christmas, brother," he whooped. "Yes," replied Ben. "Merry Christmas, brother."

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