Rhiwbina Living Autumn 2018 by Rhiwbina Living

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Rhiwbina Living

At the heart of the community Issue 44 Autumn â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;18

AU T U M N Your multi award-winning magazine for Rhiwbina

Inside this issue Rhiwbina's Alan Wilkins recalls his childhood days in the village and his global career to date Competitions

Win a festive afternoon tea for two at the Secret Shed's Tea Garden and tickets to see a Night at the Movies at St David's Hall

Autumn hygge

Get your home cosy this autumn with our handpicked selection of homewares and goodies

Elliot Kear

Former Rhiwbina Squirrel Elliot Kear talks to us about his rugby league career and what it means to be picked to captain Wales

Winter deadline:

14th November 2018 Published 26th November 2018

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 Welcome to your Autumn issue of Rhiwbina Living. As the village settles down after a long and much appreciated summer, it is time to light the fires and enjoy the feeling of hygge that this season brings. Our magazines are all about embracing the seasons and we have put together an issue that celebrates both the beauty of the outdoors and the cosiness of the indoors. We have features on how to feel cosy in the cold, some delicious hotpot recipes and insights into what makes Autumn special through the eyes of Rhiwbina's children. Autumn is a time when we make the most of our homes, so we went around the village and handpicked some of the finest homewares and goodies to make your home extra inviting. Being outside and witnessing the beauty of our changing village is a sight to behold, but with the changing of the season, comes a flurry of activity from nature. We have put together an informative guide on some of the species around Rhiwbina. Kevin Revell returns to give his advice on how to keep our gardens looking beautiful and full of colour through Autumn. Our interviews are focused around sport this issue and we enjoyed speaking to two of Rhiwbina's sporting heroes. Alan Wilkins, who has recently returned to Cardiff from the Far East is a former Glamorgan cricketer who built

a broadcasting career that earned him many awards and plaudits, and Elliot Kear is a former Rhiwbina Squirrel who has recently been promoted to captain of the Wales rugby league team. Rhiwbina Living is a truly organic community magazine has always been about celebrating what is special about Rhiwbina and the local area and we were so honoured that two of our residents shared their historical stories of Rhiwbina Recreation Club and the Tynant Quarry. Further contributions from residents have been compiled to mark the recent 70th Birthday of the NHS, when we asked four Rhiwbina residents what the NHS means to them. So, grab your mug of tea or steaming hot chocolate and sit back and enjoy a good read as Rhiwbina nestles into Autumn.

Danielle and Patric

Editors

@RhiwbinaLiving www.facebook.com/ rhiwbinaliving

What’s on October Half Term Lantern Magic 30th & 31st October, 1st November Art Workshop, Lon Fach Build your lanterns ready for the Rhiwbina Christmas Festival Lantern Parade. Winter Wonderland Thursday 15th November City Hall, Cardiff Christmas food, rides and of course ice-skating - all set on Cardiff’s City Hall Lawn within the stunning setting of Cardiff’s iconic civic centre. Rhiwbina Winter Festival Saturday 24th November 4pm-8pm

Rhiwbina Village The highlight of the winter calendar. Rides, stalls, entertainment, food and drink - it's all here in the village. Short Story Workshop Saturday 1st December 10am-1pm Rhiwbina Library Learn how to craft a short story with local author Jo Verity. £10. Whitchurch Reindeer Run Saturday 1st December 5pm Whitchurch Village A one-mile fun run around Whitchurch village and an evening of festive celebration.

news

Rhiwbina writer debuts her new play in London

Village prepares for winter and the annual Christmas Festival Rhiwbina's annual Christmas Festival has been moved a week forward from its usual first weekend in December. The move means that it will now take place on Saturday 24th November. Rhiwbina Events Committee have already started planning the event, which always draws large crowds into the village. DJ Sparky Marky will get proceedings underway from 4pm onwards with music and live acts to keep festival-goers entertained. Canolfan Beulah will be the venue for crafts and gift stalls and there will also be late night shopping from the local traders. The big Christmas Light Switch On will take place at 5pm, and the much-loved Lantern Parade will take

place at 5.15pm. A week later in Whitchurch, there will be the sound of hooves and sleigh bells as the annual Reindeer Run takes place on Saturday 1st December. The village celebrates the festive one-mile fun run with stalls, crafts, rides and late-night opening in some shops. There will also be live music, an outdoor cinema and a festive finale. Entertainment starts at 5pm while the race starts at 7pm. Anybody who enters the Fun Run will receive a personalised Reindeer Run T-shirt, displaying the names of everyone taking part. They will also receive a set of reindeer antlers and a flashing nose. Organisers hope to raise over £10,000 for Cancer Research Wales.

New cemetery plans cause worry Cardiff Council has approved plans to build a new cemetery which will be built just 650 yards from the current Thornhill Cemetery. Over 1,000 residents had objected to the plans which came after the Council's bereavement service warned that the city could run out of burial spaces without a new facility. The £3m cemetery will allow up to 7,500 burials and will include car parking, a memorial garden, public toilets and a pond with water lilies and fish. Andrew and Carol Phillips, who run Thornhill Farm Shop were among those who opposed the plans, saying in a letter to the Council: "We run a very popular farm shop which is in danger of being adversely affected by such a development, putting in danger the employment

[of] our 15 employees. "The M4 has always been a natural barrier to stop any development northwards. This proposal sends a very negative message that the Council doesn't care about preserving the beautiful backdrop to the city." Objections were raised about the loss of space in Cardiff's 'green wedge' - land around the city where development is restricted to protect the countryside.

A Rhiwbina resident has debuted her new play at the Kings Head Theatre in London. Fresh from her play The Hall, which played to a sell-out audience at Cardiff's Tramshed, Claire Erasmus's new play Flotsam featured Jennifer Aries of BAFTA award-winning Call the Midwife, The Tunnel and Ripper Street as well as Ciara Pouncett, soon to be seen in High Water. Claire told Rhiwbina Living: "The production is an exploration of human mortality examined through the power of female friendship. It’s about an unlikely and spontaneous friendship, inspired by the life and suffering of a childhood friend. Women can open up to one another quickly and have a community of experience that encourages this. "It feels like things are changing for women in the arts, and that’s exciting, and yet frustrating that it’s still even an issue. If you look at the stats for film or TV, written, produced or directed by women there is still a huge gap. Change needs to come sooner." Flotsam earned rave reviews from theatre-goers, with one critic describing the play as 'a powerful piece of theatre indeed.' "I believe that communally, people can be a force for good; that connections and fellowship matter, they make us human. I want my work to bear witness to ordinary but extraordinary lives to those forgotten voices, to their struggles and courage in the face of adversity," said Claire.

“

Flotsam is a poignant, poetic, laugh out loud hour of theatre from the pen of an excellent female writer 3

news

Rhiwbina residents represent Wales at pétanque

(l-r) Gareth Spencer, Michelle Spencer and Andy Howard

Three Rhiwbina residents have recently represented Wales at the Home Nations Pétanque Championship in Jersey. The trio formed part of a 24-strong Welsh team that took on the cream of British pétanque players from England, Scotland and Jersey in a four-way tournament that was held over two days on the weekend of August 4th/5th. One member of the trio, Andy Howard told Rhiwbina Living: "As a minority sport, we are always keen to raise the profile of the sport and in the future, as a resident, I really hope that there will be a club in the village."

Rhiwbina Christmas cards Rhiwbina Living will be producing a new series of Christmas cards based on local village life. Co-editor Patric Morgan said: "It's something we've been meaning to do for years. We've often had people asking if our front covers could be turned into Christmas cards so we're doing it this year." The cards will be available from www.cosyhomestore.com

Rhiwbina Squirrels launch raffle Sunday 2nd September saw the official launch of the Cancer Research Wales/Rhiwbina RFC annual raffle at a very busy Caedelyn Park. The raffle is a joint venture between the two organisations to raise funds for Cancer Research in Wales and to support community rugby at all ages and levels in North Cardiff. All funds raised by Cancer Research Wales are spent in Wales, and are focussed on prevention, early diagnosis and better treatments. Rhiwbina RFC has had an annual raffle for some years, but this is the first time they have combined with a charity in a unique joint venture. All prizes have been donated by local businesses, many of whom already support rugby development through sponsorship of kit and individual teams. Local Councillors Jayne Cowan and Adrian Robson were on hand to launch the raffle at Caedelyn

Park, along with Anna-Marie Jones, Community Fundraiser for Cancer Research Wales, and Richard Price, Chairman of Rhiwbina Mini & Junior Section (pictured). It was a busy morning at Caedelyn as over 200 children were playing and training and development sessions were being delivered for coaches and team managers. Please support the raffle and buy your tickets from Cancer Research Wales shops or from Rhiwbina RFC players, members, parents and supporters.

Bicycle station installed in village centre A new bicycle-sharing scheme has been launched in Rhiwbina. A bicycle station has been installed in the village, allowing users to hire a bike and return it to any of the stations around Cardiff. Users register themselves and are then sent a code to unlock the bikes. The installation is part of an expansion that will see the number of stations double. Nextbike, the world’s most extensive bike-share operator, recently revealed the city’s 16,000 registered users have already cycled an impressive 140,000km since the scheme was launched in March. Managing director Julian Scriven said he hoped people would be happy to

see the extra stations being installed. “Demand for the scheme has been phenomenal in Cardiff since we launched,” he said. “The larger the scheme grows, the more reliable it becomes as a viable alternative for people looking to change the way they commute to work and get around the city."

Rhiwbina Against Plastic launch scheme Rhiwbina Against Plastic has launched a new recycling scheme that will raise money for local charities. Baby food pouches, biscuit wrappers, Tassimo coffee discs, trigger sprays from cleaning products and lots more can be recycled. “It’s a great scheme! We collect clean, hard-to-recycle plastics; stop the plastic going to landfill or incineration and give what money we generate to local charities,” said Rhiwbina Against Plastic. “We hope people take part - the more people give, the more money we raise!” The library and Rhiwbeina Primary

School are the first to offer collection points but any not-for-profit group such as the Scouts, church groups etc. can take part and raise funds. For a full list of recyclable items or to set up a collection point, visit Rhiwbina Against Plastic on Facebook or the library. The scheme is run by Terracycle.

library

Summer in the Library: A review

As ever, our brilliant library staff gave terrific encouragement and support to young readers in the annual National Reading Challenge. Inspired by The Beano Comic’s 80th anniversary, the theme for this year’s Challenge was ‘Mischief Makers’. A bumper crop of readers - 605 children aged 4-11yrs - signed up at Rhiwbina Library. There were even 62 0-3yrs for the ‘mini challenge’ and 21 teenagers. Medals and certificates for those completing the challenge will be distributed to schools by library staff. Throughout the summer break, Rhiwbina Library was buzzing with events for children: • Illustrator Eric Heyman helped young artists produce their own comic strips. • Barry, resident potter at St Fagans, brought along his wheel and let us have a bash at throwing pots. • Our local PCSOs gave youngsters the lowdown on fingerprinting, police uniforms and police cars – including the siren! • Rhiwbina Library staff organised a craft event with a ‘Mischief Makers’ theme. • Kelly Matthews from Cats Protection entertained with stories and crafts. • There was an extra Code Club session. Your generous donations to FoRL covered expenses for these and similar events which, we’re sure you’ll agree, is money well spent. A sad and shocking statistic: 770,000 British children do not own a physical book. With this in mind, our Book Bank has been operating for a couple of years, distributing your donations of new/nearly new children's books via Food Banks and children’s centres across Cardiff. If you have books to donate, please leave them in the red suitcase in the library foyer.

Library News All the latest news and events from Rhiwbina Library

What's On

January

October

Jigsaw Library

Friday 5th: Children’s Book Club (4pm-4.45pm) 7–10yrs Tuesday 9th: ‘So You Think You Can Drive?’ An interactive talk by Dave Lewis (7pm) Wednesday 17th: Goldies ‘Sing & Smile’ (10.30am–11.30am) Monday 22nd: Read Aloud (for adults) (3pm–4pm) Tuesday 23rd: ‘Real Cardiff: The Flourishing City’ with Peter Finch (7.30pm) £3 Wednesday 31st: Quiz & Cuppa 3.30pm £2

November

Friday 2nd: Pebble Painting for Children, with Rachael Southcott from the City Hospice (1pm-3pm) Friday 2nd: Children’s Book Club (4pm-4.45pm) 7–10yrs Monday 19th: Read Aloud (for adults) (3pm–4pm) Tuesday 20th: 'Having a Go at the Kaiser' - A Welsh Family at War. Gethin Matthews (7.30pm) £3 Monday 19th: Read Aloud (for adults) (3pm–4pm) Wednesday 21st: Goldies ‘Sing & Smile’ (10.30am–11.30am) Wednesday 28th: Quiz & Cuppa 3.30pm £2

Saturday 12th: An afternoon of boardgames. Details TBC

Our Jigsaw Library is open every Saturday (10am-12.30pm). Check FoRL social media feeds for details of extra sessions.

Get Involved

If you have suggestions for events or would be willing to give a talk/ demonstration on an interesting topic, please get in touch. Most importantly, support Rhiwbina Library by coming along to our events. Why not become a ‘Friend’? Membership is free to all.

Become a ‘Friend’ or if you have any comments/suggestions, get in touch. For details of events, consult the notice board or telephone 029 2069 3276. Email: friendsofrhiwbinalibrary@ gmail.com Website: friendsofrhiwbinalibrary. weebly.com Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

December

Saturday 1st: Short Story Workshop with Jo Verity (10am–1pm) £10 Friday 7th: Children’s Book Club (4pm-4.45pm) 7–10yrs

letters

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

Autumn Poem

Please find a poem I have written about Autumn, offered as a modest contribution to your remarkable magazines.

Farewell to our festive friend

It's with a sad heart that I bring news that Rhiwbina Garden Village's Seasonal Visitor has passed away. He visited the children in their homes every year and was a major contributor to our Christmas festivities. He knew all the youngsters' names and always had a special word for them. He was known to them as Father Christmas but to us, he was Tony Absi, a very loyal friend and a devoted family man. The annual Garden Village Christmas Run has benefited immensely from Tony's voluntary work over the years. He helped create the special atmosphere that Rhiwbina creates at the festive time of year. On behalf of all the children and families who were lucky enough to be visited by him, we have sent a donation as requested to Velindre Hospital. Mary Clarke Rhiwbina

Not again please

Thanks as always for all your hard work in compiling and distributing the magazine. I must however say that, in the last issue, I found the article at pages 42-43 (Hunter) inappropriate in the way that it glorifies the

Beneath the stars that swing the midnight sky, Below the strands of opalescent cloud, The wandering owl surveys her night domain; Benign, like death, through blackened leaves she stares, Awaiting movement of her hidden prey, Through autumn's shadow lanes and withered grass; And then, on wings that sweep the silent air, She drifts, unheard, to kill the unaware! While bustling rodents garner what they may To store against the winter's leaner times, A breeze, with wilful prodigality, Disperses autumn's bronzed and golden leaves Across the earth, preparing it for sleep. And then the harvest moon shines forth at night To soothe the sleeping land with gentle rays And bring a gracious end to autumn days! GA James Rhiwbina

destruction of fellow human beings. Military history has its place, and deserves recognition, but please, not again to be presented in such an offensive manner. Paul Jeffries Heol Erwin Rhiwbina

Congratulations

Congratulations on your tenth birthday. Living Magazines have become a feature of local Cardiff life and provide a great vehicle for communication and discussion. I know how much goes into producing a local free journal and managing to make it pay for itself. In the Sixties and Seventies, I was involved in regional magazines, starting one of the first free distribution newspapers in Cardiff called Shopping in Cardiff. In those days, we didn’t have the benefit of the World Wide Web and local advertisers welcomed the opportunity to use an alternative, more defined medium to the local papers and TV. We worked with the Cardiff Chamber of Trade and Chamber of Commerce and distributed around sixty thousand copies a month. The above is not intended as credit for me but is simply to show that I know - from hard experience - what a great job you do and what you have achieved in the past ten years. I’d like to hope that I’ll still be around to congratulate you on your twentieth birthday - but I’m not entirely sure! Ken Liverton Rhiwbina

New bikes

As someone who cares about the environment, I was pleased to see the arrival of the new bicycle hire in the village. My only concern, and I know it's not the world's biggest worry right now, is 'Is the Christmas tree going to fit?'. I'm hoping that this has all been thought through properly! P Vaughan 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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kids

What we love about

Autumn Evie aged 7 What do you like about Autumn? I like sunny days stepping in leaves when they make crunchy noises. What has it been like to go back to school? It's been exciting and I've been nervous going into Year Three as I was worried there was going to be harder work. What are you looking forward to at this time of the year and why? I'm looking forward to Christmas because my Elf on the Shelf, Chippy comes back and she spends time playing hide and seek with us. What is your favourite thing to do in Autumn? My favourite thing is the Halloween party we have every year in the house when I invite my best friends.

Tilly aged 10 What do you like about Autumn? I like collecting conkers and playing 'conkers' with my friends at school. I also like dressing up for Halloween. What has it been like to go back to school? I’ve really enjoyed seeing all my friends again and meeting my new teacher. I’m really enjoying learning about my new topic. What are you looking forward to at this time of the year and why? Going trick or treating with all my friends at Halloween because I like getting lots of sweets. I’m also looking forward to Bonfire Night because I can see all the pretty fireworks from our balcony. What is your favourite thing to do in Autumn? I like building shelters in the forests with all the sticks and leaves that have fallen.

Lily aged 7 What do you like about Autumn? You can find conkers and I love collecting them. What has it been like to go back to school? It’s been fun seeing my friends again and having a new teacher. What are you looking forward to at this time of the year and why? I’m looking forward to Daddy’s birthday and then Christmas because I get to have fun with my family. What is your favourite thing to do in Autumn? Collect conkers!

Holly aged 10 What do you like about Autumn? It's my birthday in the Autumn. It's pretty with the different colour leaves falling off the trees. It's also getting close to Christmas! What has it been like to go back to school? Good. It takes a while to get used to the new people in my class but I'm enjoying it. What are you looking forward to at this time of the year and why? I'm looking forward to my birthday and Christmas as I'll get lots of presents! What is your favourite thing to do in Autumn? My favourite thing to do in Autumn in to wrap up warm and watch all the bright firework displays on Bonfire Night.

Lucy aged 13

Nine Rhiwbina children explain why they love the Autumn season and what they enjoy doing most during the colder months

Lucas aged 9 What do you like about Autumn? I like collecting conkers and seeing all the colours of the leaves on the trees. What has it been like to go back to school? It’s been fun seeing all my friends again and meeting my new teacher. What are you looking forward to at this time of the year and why? I’m looking forward to moving to Australia because it’s nice and hot over there. What is your favourite thing to do in Autumn? Collect conkers and play football.

Rosie aged 7 What do you like about Autumn? We get to play in the leaves and be outside. We get to see the squirrels hiding their acorns. What has it been like to go back to school? Year Three is super strict! What are you looking forward to at this time of the year and why? It's not long until we get to go ice-skating at Christmas. It's lots of fun. What is your favourite thing to do in Autumn? My favourite things is to drink hot chocolate with marshmallows and watch movies.

What do you like about Autumn? It's the season of Halloween. It's also very pretty with the autumnal tones of the leaves. What has it been like to go back to school? It's nice going back to see my friends again and meeting my new teachers. It's hard getting up early though! What are you looking forward to at this time of the year and why? Halloween - dressing up for parties and it's also my birthday. What is your favourite thing to do in Autumn? Going for long walks in the Wenallt and listening to the crunching of the leaves beneath my feet.

Ben aged 7 What do you like about Autumn? I like the nice colours of the leaves and to listen to the noise of the crunching leaves when I jump in them. Autumn also means the start of the football and rugby season. What has it been like to go back to school? I am a bit nervous in Year Three as my teacher is quite strict. What are you looking forward to at this time of the year and why? I'm excited to celebrate Halloween and Bonfire Night with my friends and family. What is your favourite thing to do in Autumn? I like watching the fireworks and all the flashing lights on Bonfire Night.

Martha aged 6 What do you like about Autumn? I like going to the park and finding conkers and throwing all the fallen leaves into the air. What has it been like to go back to school? Seeing all my friends and playing with them has been fun. What are you looking forward to at this time of the year and why? I’m looking forward to Christmas because we might be flying to Australia. What is your favourite thing to do in Autumn? My favourite thing is dressing up for Halloween.

The Art Workshop Art courses for all abilities

CLOTHING, TOYS & GIFTS FROM NEWBORN TO 4YRS

Rhiwbina Christmas Festival Lantern Parade Workshops 30th & 31st October, 1st November

Family/group willow lantern building 10am-1pm, £25 per lantern. Little People Lantern decorating 10am-11am, or 11.30am-12.30pm £10. Includes all materials and LED lights. (Not for profit. Workshops in support of Rhiwbina Village)

3 Lon Fach, Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 6DY For timetable and booking see w: www.theartworkshop.co.uk e: theartworkshop@live.co.uk t: 07947 003111

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RHIWBINA EVENTS COMMITTEE PROUDLY PRESENTS

Rhiwbina Christmas Festival

& Lantern Parade Welcome in Christmas this year at the wonderful Rhiwbina Christmas Festival. Meet Santa, join the magical Lantern Parade, do a spot of late night Christmas shopping and watch the Christmas lights switch on!

Christmas Lights Switch On 5pm

Meet Father Christmas from 3.30pm at the Secret Shed

Lantern Parade 5.15pm

RIDES | CRAFT & GIFT STALLS | LATE NIGHT SHOPPING | STREET FOOD

RHIWBINA VILLAGE NOVEMBER TH 24 2018 4pm - 6.30pm ROAD CLOSURES: Heol Y Deri will be closed to all traffic from 2pm on the 24th November and will re-open at 8.30pm. The road closure begins at the crossroads of Beulah Church and continues to Lon Isa. Pen Y Dre will also be closed to traffic during this time from the crossroads to Lon Y Dail. Beulah Road will remain open to traffic and the buses will be diverted along it. Lantern Parade starts at 5.15pm

Festive Foodie Inspiration!

Pugh’s Food Hall is your local, family-run independent haven for all your festive foodie needs to Eat, Drink and Be Merry. Our 2018 Christmas Shop opens on 11th October!

Hampers and Christmas Meat

There’s no better feeling than giving a gift and we’re on hand to put together bespoke hampers for you to add a special touch (and taste!) this Christmas. Our hampers are made-to-order with products of your choice. Farmers Pantry Butchers are now also taking Christmas turkey orders to ensure you have the finest meats to wow your dinner table guests. Speak with our Food Hall team next time you visit.

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www.pughsgardencentre.co.uk/radyr

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IN AID OF

WHITCHURCH VILLAGE, CARDIFF

SATURDAY 1ST DECEMBER 1 MILE FUN RUN - SANTA & REINDEER PARADE - FOOD FESTIVAL LIVE MUSIC - GIANT OUTDOOR CINEMA - FESTIVE FINALE En t er tai n ment f ro m 17:3 0 u n ti l 23 : 00 - R ac e Sta rts at 19 : 00

R E G I S T E R E D C H A R I TA B L E I N C O R P O R AT E D O R GA N I S AT I O N N U M B E R : 1 1 6 7 2 9 0 CA N C E R R E S E A R C H WA L E S

alan wilkins As a boy, Alan Wilkins dreamed of travelling the world in a life of sport. His dream came true, but not in the way that he expected

lan Wilkins has 'come home.' For more than three decades, he's commentated on some of the world's most prestigious sporting events. But now he's sat on a park bench in North Cardiff, reflecting on his career to date. "My first memories of playing sport were in Parc-y-Pentre. It was a safe place, the sort of place that your parents would just tell you to go to and have some fun in. We played football here, we played cricket here; we might have even nicked an odd apple off a tree here. My childhood had a huge influence on what I do now because we had friends and we had family; we played all sports and we all had dreams. "There were two things that got me into sport. First, there was my father, Haydn Wilkins, who played a high level of cricket, and if it wasn't for the Second World War, I think he would have been a full County cricketer. He did play for Glamorgan and I still have his equipment up in our loft. When I was little, I'd be sat in front of the cricket on TV wearing his pads and his gloves. You can imagine that they were huge on me. At Rhiwbeina Junior School,

we had Mr. Ball (how appropriate is that!) who'd take us for cricket and Mr. Walters the headmaster. And they would drive us around in their own private cars which you wouldn't be able to do these days. We'd play against Eglwys Wen and Eglwys Newydd and our mother would make sure that my whites were always clean. In those days, Glamorgan were our heroes and we joined their Junior members and my sporting journey started there. "Throughout my teens, I made the grade as a player, moving up through the ranks. I had pace as a bowler, and as I went over the railway line from Rhiwbina to Whitchurch Grammar School, it was all about cricket, as well as rugby and football. "I rose up through the Wales U13s, U15s and U17s until eventually, I played for Wales Secondary Schools. And that was the pinnacle for any school boy. "Glamorgan of course, get to know who you are and I was invited to try out a few second team games. We had people like Tony Cordle and Kevin Lyons who nurtured us and made sure that we were doing our jobs properly. And the further I went

in the cricket system, the more I wanted to wear that daffodil of Glamorgan on my chest." Alan eventually moved up to the senior team and was a member of the Glamorgan side that played in the 1977 Gillette Cup Final against Middlesex at Lord's. He also played a key role in Glamorgan`s progress to their first final of a one-day competition at Lord's. 1977 proved to be his most productive season in first-class cricket for Glamorgan, taking 47 wickets. "I'm not a physical specimen but I had good rhythm and I relied on this rhythm to give me good pace. This pace carried me for my first few years at Glamorgan and then I went to Gloucestershire. When I felt the first twinges of pain in my left shoulder after several years of playing, I started to seriously worry. I was in South Africa at the time and the weather was glorious. I was swimming every day and the palliative care of the sun really helped my shoulder. "But when I got back to the UK in the April of 1982, it was so cold that my shoulder just stopped working. It was like trying to start a car in the cold without a choke. I realised

people that something was wrong and it was discovered that I had a frozen shoulder. Everything was overworn and overused and it really needed a rest. But I didn't give it rest and the rehabilitation wasn't managed very well so I missed the entire 1982 season, during which time, I really hit a low. Alan's low point was to prove the making of him. "I'd just had two very good years with Gloucestershire and the shoulder injury gave me real pain, not just in my shoulder, but emotionally. Month after month went by and by the September, I decided that I was going to go back to South Africa and get this shoulder right. During those months, I'd severed ties with Gloucestershire and Glamorgan had made me an offer to come back. "When I did come back in that 1983 season, I took a wicket with my first ball. The Western Mail proclaimed me as The Prodigal Son. And I thought that everything was going to be great. But the season was awful, just awful. And during that season, I made a mental note to myself that this wasn't for me. I felt like I was an elastic band that had lost its tautness. I didn't feel the same as I had done 18 months previously. I still had two years of contract with Glamorgan so I wrote to them in the Christmas of 1983 and told them that I wasn't coming back. They told me that I couldn't go as I was still under contract but I told them that I was giving my 3 months notice, which I could do. And I left!

"I didn't want to coach because it was all still so raw. I was 29 at this point and still had years of cricket ahead of me. But I knew that I had to make that decision and I have no regrets about doing that." The sport had given Alan some long-abiding memories. "I remember taking 8 wickets for 57 for Gloucestershire at Old Trafford in September 1981. It was a career best and I wondered if I was going to get into an England team. "Another happy memory was getting into one of those Glamorgan sweaters for the first time. It had a big daffodil on it and I was so excited that I wore it to bed. It had been given to me by Alan Jones. He handed it to me and said: 'Here we are Wilks. You've earned this.' I felt 12ft tall. I felt like the Terminator." But it was the world of broadcasting to which Alan was heading. "Broadcasting was the obvious choice and I wanted to return to South Africa. My early forays into broadcasting started during that last season with Glamorgan – the summer of 1983 – when Ron Jones, who was then with BBC Radio Wales, and the regular cricket reporter – asked if I would like to sit with him in the commentary box and maybe add a few comments on a Saturday afternoon. I loved it!" Broadcasting has taken Alan all over the globe. He has covered the US Tennis Open and the Australian Tennis Open. He's been on Indian Cricket Tours around the world – Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, England, the West Indies, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. In golf, he's presented The Masters several times and closer to home, he was the lead commentator and presenter for Asian golf in the AsiaPacific region. "Broadcasting has given me some incredible memories. There have been some extraordinary moments. At Wimbledon, I became very good friends with one of the most wonderful human beings you'll find in this world in Vijay Amritraj. I didn't know a lot about tennis when we first met and he told me that as well, but since then, we've become the closest of friends." One memory that sticks with Alan took place 16 years ago. "We were in New York when 9/11 happened and our hotel on 48th Street took in people who slept in the foyer after the attacks. The following year, it was Sampras v Agassi in the final of the US Open. The New York Coastguard and the

Marine Corps, and the Fire Brigade walked in and unfurled a Stars and Stripes that they'd retrieved from the World Trade Center. With Sampras and Agassi watching on courtside, they lifted the flag and released hundreds of white doves as a message for world peace. "I was so choked up that I couldn't speak but my director was in my earpiece telling me to say something. But I couldn't. I turned to Vijay, who was stood next to me and he had tears just streaming down his face. He just waved me away. Nothing I could have said would have done it justice so I turned the microphone off. Those pictures really were more powerful than any words and they spoke for themselves." For Alan, sport has changed his life for the better. He also recognises its power to improve the lives of others. "We live in an angry world. We live in a world full of angst. But sport is a way where the psychological, the physical and the physiological aspects of human nature can create a healthy mind and body. By linking with other people, playing in a team, playing against other teams, making friends all over the globe in all types of sport - this is how sport improves people. And it has given me a Green Card to travel the world. For me, sport made me a competitive animal. I would encourage children to enjoy sport and it doesn't have to be the traditional ones - there are so many sports to try out there. If the kids don't like it, that's fine but give it a go. "I've been broadcasting for 34 years now but I've now come home. I've just published my new book Easier Said Than Done, which charts my life in broadcasting. I wrote this book, not to make money but to document my life. If I'd had the time, I could have written a lot more. "I'm going to keep on broadcasting while I have an eye to see what I'm looking at and a voice to describe it. I'm still loving it and I want to write a second and a third book!" Easier Said Than Done is now available from www.ashleydrake.cymru

serenade Christmas at Serenade 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 autumn · Terramundi Money Pots · Large selection of soft toys · Demdaco Willow Tree · Party balloons

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Really challenge yourself ? Achieve an innovative skill; learn a new hobby at Whitchurch Fencing Club beginners’ courses, each of six sessions. Sword-fencing, a martial art, is as much about the ‘art’ of fencing and not brute force. Quick thinking, subtle flick of the controlling fingers, a swift lunge, powered by a cardio workout, all build self-esteem and confidence. We are conveniently located at Rhiwbina Memorial Hall. Beginners’ courses are in blocks of six weekly sessions, inexpensive at only £29.50p in total, including insurance. All the required safety kit is provided. Three qualified coaches ensure basics are taught at an appropriate pace, and on satisfactory completion, a certificate is awarded.

Experienced Fencers one-to-one tuition included as a member. Enjoy an extra night’s fencing ? Join us for just £10 a month. Three BFA-registered coaches, one a former Commonwealth Silver medallist.

Tuesday evenings, 8.30- 10.30 pm Rhiwbina Memorial Hall, Lon Ucha, Cardiff CF14 6HL Learning courses: E: learn2fence@whitchurchfencing.co.uk Experienced/Returning: E::enquiries@whitchurchfencing.co.uk www.whitchurchfencing.co.uk

competitions

Win a festive afternoon tea for two at rhiwbina's secret shed Since opening its doors in the summer, the Secret Shed's Tea Garden has become an instant hit in the village. Formerly known as New Roots Garden Centre, owner John Chichester has invested a lot of money and time into the shop over the last few years. The Tea Garden has become a calm of oasis in the village, serving up teas, coffees, cake and snacks. "When we took over the shop, we had a vision of what we wanted to do with the place. Over the last few months, we've managed to totally transform the back area of the shop. Where once there were a few sheds, we've created our very own Tea Garden that's totally under cover. Resident Mary Clarke cut the ribbon to the garden on the morning of the Summer Festival. "Since then, we've been busy most days and had some very kind words said about us." Perhaps the most striking feature about the Tea Garden is that despite it being outside, it is still totally under cover, meaning visitors can enjoy their tea and coffee in the dry.

Lights. Camera. Action! After a sell-out performance last year, Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra’s A Night at the Movies concert returns for another night of glitz and glamour at St David’s Hall on Friday 7th December. A staggering 1,882 people packed the National Concert Hall of Wales to the rafters in December 2017, which was the highest attendance for any show at the venue for 13 years! Tickets will be in equally high demand this time too, but you can win a pair of the best seats in the

Secret Shed also has a cosy gift shop that's warmed by a log fire. "We've got some great gift ideas for Christmas," says John. "We're really getting in the mood for Autumn and Winter. We've ordered in extra seasoned hardwood logs, which we completely sold out of last year. We'll also have our usual stock of high-quality Christmas trees this year. We are working on our festive menu for our Tea Garden, including our wonderful afternoon teas." You can be in with a chance of winning one of these festive afternoon teas for two at the Tea Garden by answering this very simple question:

Good luck!

What was the Secret Shed previously called? Email your entries to competitions@livingmags.co.uk by midday on 25th November. You can also enter by post by sending a postcard with the correct answer to our address on the inside front cover of the magazine. Remember to include your contact details! house in this exclusive competition. Get ready for a rollercoaster ride down the red carpet with family favourites from Star Wars, Back to the Future, Jurassic World, The Blues Brothers and La La Land to name just a few. Ahead of the imminent release of Mary Poppins Returns, there’s also a selection of the classic songs from the original 1964 film. Plus, there’s Disney classics from Beauty and the Beast and The Lion King. As always, the concert is full of fun film facts from CPO’s Conductor, Michael Bell MBE. To be in with a chance of winning a pair of tickets, please answer the following question: Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra are performing music from a classic 1980s film starring Michael J. Fox. But what is the name of the movie? a) Back to the Past b) Back to the Present c) Back to the Future

WIN TICKETS TO SEE a night at the movies with cardiff philharmonic orchestra Please email your answer to SDHpress@cardiff.gov.uk by Monday 26th November 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.

CODEBREAKER

He grew up playing for Rhiwbina Squirrels. But in his late teens, he broke away from the union game to play rugby league. This year, he captains Wales in their World Cup qualifiers

"My dad used to be the captain of Rhiwbina Squirrels. He was the one that got me into rugby union from a young age." Elliot Kear has come a long way since his playing days on Caedelyn Park. Not only does he play for the London Broncos, he's just been made captain for the Wales team that will be aiming to make the Rugby League World Cup Finals in 2021. The boy from Whitchurch has become the leader of a nation. "I grew up on the Philog until the age of 16 when we all moved up to Whitworth Square at the top of Whitchurch. We were the first people to move in there! Dad played rugby and coached the game after he stopped playing. I lived in a very rugby-orientated family and Dad would take me and my brother Scott to the grounds of Whitchurch Hospital where we'd practice our goal-kicking when we were kids. "At the age of 10 or 11, I played rugby union for Llandaff North. I

then represented Cardiff Counties throughout high school. My problem was that I was quite small and after a while, I was dropped from the team. I still played school rugby up until the Sixth form but I was playing with some pretty good players so it was hard to make an impression." Elliot was in the same year as Sam Warburton, who of course, went on to cement his place in rugby history, both with Wales and the British and Irish Lions. "Gareth Bale was in the same year too. It was a pretty good year as far as sport went! Our rugby team was particularly strong and in Sixth Form; we won the equivalent of the Welsh Cup "There was Mr Morris and Mr Williams who'd coach us and we'd have training early on Wednesday mornings before school. The school and us as individuals had a big passion for sport. I still maintain good links with the school and pop in whenever I can. I've also donated

a few jerseys." Although rugby union was the choice for many students, it was in rugby league that Elliot was to make a name for himself. "Towards the end of my time at Whitchurch High, myself and a few of the lads were told about some open trials for the U18 rugby league. We went along and got involved and things went from there. It was, and still is, a fastpaced game and because we were smaller than some of the lads who were getting bigger for union, we slotted in well. We did a tour of Scotland and Ireland and beat them, losing only to England. At that time, the Celtic Crusaders were moving up the league and they started an academy which I got involved with." Founded as Celtic Crusaders in 2005 initially based in Bridgend, the Crusaders played for six seasons in the Rugby Football League competitions, including three years in the Super League. Images: www.ianlovell.com

interview "While we were there, six of the team's Australian players were sent home after the club was found to have broken visa rules. It was quite a big thing in the media at the time." The UK Border Agency had found that the six players, who included the club captain, Jace van Dijk, and their record try-scorer, Tony Duggan, played illegally under working holiday or student visas at various stages between 2006 and 2008. The Crusaders had been building on a successful application for a Super League licence. It was the break that Elliot needed. "It all sort of fell into place from there. It was sad news for the players sent home but ultimately, it was good news for myself and a few of the other Welsh players as it gave us the chance to play more. Lloyd White, who hails from Llanrumney and now plays at Widnes was also one of those who benefited from the deportations." Elliot made his Super League debut on 22nd August 2009 at Rodney Parade in Newport against Leeds Rhinos. "I remember getting the call a week ahead of the game. I was in town shopping with a mate when my phone rang. I was told that I may need to play for the Crusaders that coming weekend. I trained all week with them and as it happened, I was selected." He was named Man of the Match after making several fine try-saving tackles against the eventual Super League champions. He also played in Celtic Crusaders' final two games of the season against Huddersfield Giants, and Castleford Tigers. In October 2009, Elliot signed his first professional contract at Celtic Crusaders for the 2010 season, hoping to cement his place as the first choice full back at the club, under new head coach Brian Noble. 2009 also saw Elliot pick up his first international cap for Wales, starting as a full-back against England in October that year. He scored his first try for Wales a week later when they beat Serbia 88-8 in a European Cup game. He scored again the following week against Ireland and again against Scotland in the final, where he was voted Man of the Match. Wales beat Scotland 28-16. From 2012-2014, Elliot played for Bradford Bulls before switching back to rugby union for London Welsh for the 2014/15 season. "I'd always wanted to try my hand at union and as Bradford were being relegated, it felt like the right time

for me to try it," says Elliot. "I enjoyed doing it but league suited me better because of my build." Elliot then joined rugby league's London Broncos in 2015, where he still plays today. His international career for Wales has also gone well. A vice-captain at the 2017 World Cup, Elliot has scored 11 tries in 24 appearances for Wales, making him the joint-fifth most capped player of all time. In September this year, he was named as the new Welsh captain. "Being picked as a captain is a huge honour. I was vice-captain at the World Cup last year and the talk was of me looking to move up to captain. I never took it for granted though and the phone was very quiet over the summer. Eventually though, I got the call. After the news was announced, Mr Morris from WHS rang me to congratulate me." Elliot takes the captaincy after Craig Kopczak retired from Test rugby in May to focus on his club career at Salford. Wales begin their European Championship campaign with a trip to Carcassonne to face France on Saturday 27th October. "The World Cup is what we are working towards. After France, we play Scotland away and then Ireland at the Racecourse in Wrexham. We need a good start to the campaign. We also need to have all our best players fit and playing well as Wales doesn't have a lot of players in depth when it comes to rugby league. We need to build some good strength and if we can do that, then I'd like to think that we've got a good chance of qualifying. "If we're good enough to get to the World Cup Finals, we'd be targeting getting some wins under our belt and to get out of the group stages. But all that is a long way off and we need to focus on this year's games first." In this year's European

Championship, the top two will automatically qualify for the 2021 World Cup. And there is hope. Elliot has played some of the best teams in the world. "For me, the biggest game I was involved with was against Australia up at the Racecourse in Wrexham." The game was part of what was called the Four Nations tournament in 2011, which replaced the previous Tri-Nations format by including a fourth nation that qualifies by winning their respective regional competition in a rotation between Europe and the South Pacific. "We were massive underdogs but I was fortunate enough to have scored that day against the best in the world. And we were beating them for the best part of half hour! "There was also a game in France where we had 20,000 angry Frenchmen shouting at us - that was an experience! And to top it all, we played against New Zealand in a double bill at Wembley. England played Australia and although we lost our game, it's still nice to say that I've played at Wembley. "Rugby has also brought me other happiness away from the game - I am engaged to my fiancĂŠe Natalie who I met while at Bradford and we have two children, Harrison who is three, and Darcie who is two." Elliot wins Man of the Match against Serbia

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Cardiff Windows and Doors - where quality and customers come first Throughout the city and beyond, Nicky and John of Cardiff Windows and Doors are changing the way people think about double glazing

utumn is a time of year for shutting out the weather and keeping warm. The last thing you’re going to want at this time of year are worse-for-wear windows and draughty doors. Local company Cardiff Windows have been installing high specification windows and doors throughout the city and beyond for years. “We are a small and friendly family-run business that we set up to provide the people of Cardiff with quality window and door installations,” says owner Nicola Spragg. “We wanted to put our own spin on double glazing. We wanted to keep the things that we liked about it but to change the things that could have been done better. Our business started at home but in 2015, we got the keys to our business premises in Heath.”

The business property, which included an office and a showroom, underwent extensive renovation and when it opened, it allowed customers to see first hand the quality of the products that Cardiff Windows offered. “The showroom was very important to us and we invested heavily in it. We are both passionate about what we do and what we offer and we wanted to give our potential

customers something a bit different. We don’t employ salespeople so you don’t get any pressure to buy. Instead, we offer our customers an advisory service to help them come to their own decisions.” The business is based around a few essential core qualities that are at the forefront of every interaction: “Our values are important to us because our customers are at the heart of everything we do,” says Nicola. “We always let the customer decide. Once we have provided a quote in writing after our visit, we’ll leave you to decide if we are right for you. We are open and honest in our approach too; we will do what we say, and in the process, ensure you know what is happening and when. “Simplicity is another of our key values. We don’t want to confuse you with jargon. All of our information is clear and simple and we will answer all your questions with our technical expertise. Quality comes first - no matter what, we will never compromise on quality. That goes for our products, our installations and our service. “Finally, our price is our price. We won’t change the pricing goal posts by starting high and offering last minute special discounts. We will always provide a very competitive price for the quality of service and installation that we provide.” And to back up all of their words, the business offers a wealth of experience - something that’s been earned over many years. “Our showroom features bi-folding doors, sliding doors, composite doors, French doors, casement windows and box sashes in a number of different materials including aluminium, uPVC and timber. We offer a relaxed service at your pace and in getting your final decision right, it doesn’t matter how long it takes."

Case Study We had a call from a lady called Ann who wanted to talk to us about a potential project in her home. She wanted to knock down a kitchen wall to open up some space for social occasions. We set up an appointment at Ann’s home and due to the nature of her project, we stayed for an hour or so to discuss her plans. We usually only take 30 minutes but we are happy to stay longer if the project calls for it. We liaised with our builder and talked her through every step of the way, which put Ann at ease. We were able to order and deliver her bi-fold doors within three working days which Ann was very pleased about. We had the doors in next and Ann was so pleased that she also ordered box sash windows, casement windows and a new front door!

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NHS

THE

AT 70

As the National Health Service celebrates its 70th birthday, four Rhiwbina residents explain what the institution means to them

Danielle

he best care I received from the NHS was during my recent pregnancy with my son. Having miscarried three babies after the birth of my daughter, I was incredibly anxious at the thought of being pregnant again and worried that something was going to go wrong. I'd had tests to try and establish a cause for the losses, but was told it had been bad luck. Because of my age, it was unlikely that I had lots of time to contemplate trying again but it was a daunting prospect facing pregnancy and with it, the possibility of another heartbreak. I had an appointment with a Consultant Obstetrician who I had met during my pregnancies before, and she assured me she would be there ‘on the other side’ to look after me once I had a positive pregnancy test - and told me nicely that if I wanted another baby, to get on with it! This reassurance helped me to be brave enough to try again. She stuck to her word and was there from the beginning. She arranged an early reassurance scan, the day after my 42nd birthday. After my 12 week dating scan, she saw me every fortnight when she would personally scan me herself. She always did this first, as she knew that I was worried sick that

I was going to hear the dreaded words "there's no heartbeat". The clinic was always busy but she had time to answer my questions, to listen to my worries and was there to provide reassurance and hope. She never minimised my anxieties or told me it would all be okay, as she couldn’t give those guarantees; but she metaphorically held my hand all the way through and got me from week to week. When it came to planning my delivery, even though she wanted to continue my care, she knew I wanted a midwifery-led birth and supportively let me go my own way. When she was called away overseas at the end of my pregnancy, she arranged for me to be looked after by a trusted colleague and even called from India when I was in labour to see how I was getting on. I ended up having the most wonderful water hypnobirth which helped me heal from my previous traumas. After my son was born, I took him in to meet her. My daughter, who had always wanted a sibling, personally thanked her for giving her a brother! It’s people like my Consultant who are the heart of the NHS and who make it such a loved and valued institution. There are so many staff that do their jobs because of pure passion and a desire to make things better for patients and their families, and who go above and beyond policy to try and meet their patients’ needs. My hope for the NHS for the future is that it will continue to be able to provide care for all, free at the point of delivery and that staff can feel valued so that it can continue to maintain and develop the values that Aneurin Bevan envisioned.

Howard

aving suffered from a stroke in February this year, losing my left peripheral vision as a result, I realised how important the NHS was for me. Rather than pontificate on the stroke, my real admiration was for the exhaustive investigative tests that were carried out to find the cause of the stroke. As a result of these tests, I was quickly scheduled to undergo a Carotid Endarterectomy to free the build up of deposits in my carotid artery. This (apparently) was the cause of the stroke and they wanted to prevent any subsequent events. Since I’d known about the problem in my carotid artery, I was extremely worried that I was going to be a victim of a second stroke and I might not be so lucky next time! The NHS Stroke discharge team were also very good, coming to my house several times to follow up after being discharged from hospital. After a successful operation, I felt a lot happier that, hopefully, the risk of further strokes had been substantially reduced. Having lost my sister 8 months previously (after a massive stroke) and burying my wife’s mother (another stroke victim) a fortnight before my stroke, my family were obviously very concerned about my recent event. The surgery led to a feeling of progress on the road to

feature recovery. I believe that the NHS is a very special institution. It’s a shame that it comes in for a lot of flak from the mainstream media and used as a pawn in political arenas but I, as a patient in dire need, was extremely well looked after. I believe that the people make the NHS special, from the cleaners, nurses, doctors, consultants to the people delivering food to the wards – each and every one of them is special. There is a quality which is difficult to put one’s finger on, suffice to say that patient care is uppermost in all of them. I sincerely hope that the NHS continues in its existing form - that is free at the point of entry. There are some tweaks that probably need attention, like the ambulance service being overworked and sometimes used as a taxi service, and the A&E crisis as a result of people going to the hospital rather than their GP, but I’d rather that than 'credit card' hospital services.

Claire

ast year, my son was suddenly taken ill. There was no build up, it was unexpected and frightening, when on a usually lazy Saturday morning mooching around in PJs and watching the rugby, he complained of an intense pain in his groin that took his breath away. It came from nowhere and I had an immediate feeling in my gut that something was wrong. As every parent reading this knows, your child being taken ill is scary. You feel impotent and desperate. When the pain ceased to abate and with my son becoming more distressed by the second, we bundled him in the car and took him to A&E at the Heath. He was seen very soon after we arrived and within half an hour of arriving and going through triage, a consultant appeared at the bedside who informed that he had a cyst that had probably been in-situ since birth, but had grown with him and that he needed to be operated on within the hour. The condition was

a time sensitive one - operations were cancelled and he was prepared for emergency surgery. Despite this being scary, I felt in absolutely no doubt that our son was in the best possible hands; the consultant and each member of the medical team that dealt with us were incredible. I do not use that word lightly. They reassured him, ensuring the whole process was far less daunting, even to the point where the anaesthetist asked him before putting him under if he wanted to order a rugby dream - to which he replied - “Yes please! A Dan Carter World Cup one!“ The operation was a success. We stayed in overnight and I was able to sleep next to him on the wonderful new children’s ward. There I witnessed not only the care of my own child, but that of others and the dedication above and beyond the call of duty that the wonderful NHS staff display, day and night. We left later that day with painkillers, a follow up appointment in outpatients, tired smiles on our faces and a prescription for a few days off school snuggling in a duvet. Oh - and plenty of chocolate. The whole experience left me in awe, in awe of a system that despite being seriously underfunded and attacked by the current government, berated by the media almost daily for inefficiency, is actually justifiably the envy of the world. The staff battle against the odds when they are overworked, underpaid and understaffed and yet still manage to provide exceptional care. To all. Not just to those who can afford it. For as its founder Aneurin Bevan said: “No society can call itself civilised...if a sick person is denied medical aid because of lack of means." I have been on NHS demonstrations here in Wales and in London and firmly believe that if we do not fight for this incredible institution and those who work there, it will be lost for future generations. I was born in the Miners' NHS hospital in Caerphilly. My mother was a nurse, my sister has dedicated her life to service and I will never stop fighting for it. During my lifetime, the NHS has saved the life of my husband and my father, and never have we experienced anything but exceptional care. My son made a full recovery and is back playing rugby.

Jayne

y Dad was sadly diagnosed with Vascular Dementia and Alzheimers in 2017. From the moment of his diagnosis, we had excellent support from his GP who had great empathy and was so supportive of the fact that we wanted to care for Dad at home. The surgery was also excellent and provided ongoing support and guidance throughout the illness. Dementia and Alzheimers are very cruel illnesses and nothing prepares you for how the changes impact on the person suffering from the diseases, and for the family supporting the person. The NHS is under pressure but the support we had was second to none. There was a real drive to ensure the family was at the centre of the care plan and how Dad could be supported to remain in the environment he was familiar with. We had good support from dieticians who helped with menu ideas - including the purchase of a deep fat fryer to try and build up Dad's calorie intake. The NHS is respected across the world and there are many unsung heroes working around the clock offering exceptional levels of medical help and care. I am sure the NHS will continue to offer good service in the years to come, always focusing on the needs of the patient and their family. Sadly Dad passed away in May of this year. I am fundraising and raising awareness for the illnesses. Please follow @InDadsName on Twitter and In Dad's Name on Facebook to learn about the fundraising events. All money raised is being spent on Afternoon Teas and activities for people living with the illnesses in Cardiff.

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Autumn colour

Kevin Revell shows you how to keep your garden colourful and vibrant through autumn until winter

e have just enjoyed one of the best summers in living memory. Hanging baskets throughout the land grew mightily and flowered profusely. All good things come to an end however, particularly if the onerous task of watering the pots and basket daily or even twice daily was not followed religiously; or if you dared to go on holiday and failed to give instructions to friends and family on the importance of keeping up the daily care regime. All is not lost however as a new season beckons. Much of the activity in garden centres at this time of year revolves around autumn and winter flowering plants for hanging

baskets, pots and containers. Few people these days use bedding plants in the way that they were originally used in mass plantings across expansive beds and borders; the heyday of such displays was between the 1890s and 1970s. Summer plantings have always been more popular than those for autumn but everybody seems to have a need to replace tired old summer baskets with some fresh flowering plants, usually based around pansies, violas and cyclamen. Although these are sold on the premise of being 'winter flowering', the truth is that they are best in the warm days of autumn and first days of spring. Given a mild winter and a sheltered spot, they will often keep flowering right through. However, foul winter weather, driving rain and gale force winds combined with weeks of poor light or extreme cold temperatures put pay to the display most years. The plants usually survive however and continue to flower once the warmer, sunnier weather of spring returns. Small shrubs and trailing ivy are included in the display to provide structure, contrast and texture and to

provide some interest if the flowers give up for the winter. Cyclamen are familiar plants being second only to Poinsettias in Christmas house plant popularity. These large plants have smaller cousins known as mini cyclamen. They are used as autumn bedding plants and come in a range of colours. Red or white are the most popular but they also come in pinks, purples and wine. Recently bi-coloured flame forms have become popular where one colour bleeds into another. The usual dark green leaves are now available in an attractive marbled silver which can lead to some dynamic plant associations with other white flowered or silver foliaged plants. These flowers are much loved by bees who are made to work for their reward; upon alighting on a flower, the bee has to vibrate its wings at just the right frequency to release the pollen from the stamens. Such animated activity really brings the garden to life and make these plants key components of wildlife and sensory gardens. Unfortunately once pollinated, the flower soon drops off and a seed pod subsequently develops. Ideally these are removed every few days to keep the flowering

gardening display going as long as possible. Although keen gardeners will keep the plant going beyond its flowering season and save the corms from which they grow, it is more common for the plants to be discarded once flowering is over, treating them as annual plants. Pansies are a ubiquitous part of the autumn and spring garden and for many people, represent their first gardening memories, being such easy plants to grow, their cheerful faces having great appeal to children and adults alike. Yellow blotch is the best known but pansies are available in virtually every colour of the rainbow in clear colours, bright or pastel shades and often with their characteristic dark blotch or ‘face’. Improvements in plant breeding over the years have resulted in plants with an extended flowering period performing

These cheerful plants used individually or collectively in pots, containers and hanging baskets give a lively display in the bright autumn sunshine

through the autumn into the winter. Larger flowers have been selected over the years and often a crinkled pattern to the petals is chosen often within designer colour blends which combine two or three individual colours within some colour theme. This is a trend that has resulted in increased sales over the last few years. The ever popular six pack has been joined by a more expensive but larger celled super-six pack and a better value 20 pack, which usually contains the designer blends. Violas are similar to pansies but have much smaller flowers produced in a greater profusion. Traditionally, like the native viola tricolour or wild pansy, the flowers are bi-coloured with a lighter or darker ‘wing’ which comprises the two upper petals of five. That this plant has so many common names such as Heartsease and JohnnyJump-Up and was so well known

by county folk indicates that it has many medicinal applications. Now the flowers are merely frozen in ice cubes to decorate drinks or used fresh in salads. The advantage of the smaller flowers is that they stay in flower for longer and start again sooner in spring, being better able to withstand the rigours of bad weather. They are also less affected by heavy rain or being literally blown off by gale force autumn winds as can happen with some of the larger pansies. Once planted, little care is needed for autumn and winter pots and baskets. A sunny spot is ideal and they will need watering in a dry spell but at this time of the year, rain seems to be more than adequate. With shorter, cooler days, plants make less demands of the compost which will rarely need feeding other than to spark them back into life in spring. Regular dead-heading will prolong and improve the flowering

display and remove any potential source of mould becoming established in the damp weather. These cheerful plants used individually or collectively in pots, containers and hanging baskets give a lively display in the bright autumn sunshine and really lift the spirits to dispel the dull gloom of shortening days as winter advances. They provide a cheery welcome on return to the house after a hard day at work. Occasional flowers produced on odd warm days throughout winter will give a taste of another flush as temperatures warm in spring and the display becomes vibrant once more. Kevin Revell is the Plant Area Manager at Caerphilly Garden Centre

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Rec

The

history

Rhiwbina Recreation Club is at the heart of the village community. Yet its roots lie in a dark time where shadow of the Great War hung over the world. Brian Rowlands traces its history in its first few years

ne hundred years ago this Autumn, the guns of war fell silent. The signing of the Armistice on 11th November 1918, brought four years of fighting in the First World War to an end. Despite the fighting taking place in Europe, the Great War touched many areas of the world, including here in Rhiwbina. The Rhiwbina Recreation Club played its part during those dark years, both in keeping up morale and also looking after the servicemen who had taken part. Since then, the Rhiwbina 'Rec' has become an intrinsic part of the community. But its creation wasn't as straightforward as planners had hoped.

In 1911, national followers of the Garden City Movement formed a Housing Reform Company to promote suburban villages. This in turn led in 1912, to a society being formed called The Cardiff Workers Co-Operative Garden Village Society to establish a series of garden villages to provide decent housing conditions for workers in Cardiff. After visiting a number of sites in the city, the Society decided on the Pentwyn Estate here in Rhiwbina. They instructed the Housing Reform Company to purchase 10 acres with an option to purchase an additional 20 acres. The Pentwyn Estate Farmhouse is now the Whitchurch Golf Club clubhouse. The first batch of houses was completed in June 1913 and 52 more by the end of the war. Ultimately 189 would be built. It's interesting to note that the original plans for the Rhiwbina Garden Village show that housing would continue up Lon-y-Dail and back around to Heol Wen. The present site of Rhiwbeina Junior School was earmarked as an institute and the school field as a recreation field. The Recreation Club itself was founded in 1914 when a meeting was called at which it was decided that it be called the Rhiwbina Recreation Club and that land be leased from the Rhiwbina Garden Village. This led to the leasing of an initial 5 acres and then a further

2 1/2 acres at the cost of £12 per annum. The Club constructed a croquet lawn, a bowling green and tennis courts, with adjoining cricket, football and hockey pitches. Permission from the RGV was also sought to erect a pavilion to provide a club room, changing rooms and a kitchen. The Club was officially opened at a ceremony on May 9th 1914. The funding of the pavilion, which was estimated to cost £100, was through a £1 share scheme. Members took out £65 worth of shares on the basis of a return of 6% interest per annum and the Pavilion Management Committee took up shares to the value of £15, thus leaving a balance of £20, for which an appeal was made to members. It was not until 1962 that the Club had cleared all its debts. The YMCA took up 10 £1 shares. Interest and capital was to be repaid by catering, snooker and the letting of the pavilion. The sports sections of the Club were charged 5/- per night for the use of the Club. The construction of the pavilion was completed in time for the opening ceremony. In November 1915, the pavilion was extended and a year later, electric lighting to replace the oil lights was generously donated by village tenants. The Pavilion Committee functioned throughout the First World War and kept the Club

afloat. An early and important step was the formation of the Catering Committee to provide teas and refreshments for the playing sections. Luncheons were organised at the pavilion with up to fifty people being catered for in one sitting. A Saturday tea cost 6d per head, consisting of brown or white bread and butter and four cakes. The summer of 1914 saw 1,378 teas being served, mainly on a Saturday. During the war, besides becoming a focus for the social life of the village with arrangements of regular whist drives, dances, concerts and social evenings, the Club also provided for Sunday morning and afternoon fellowships and a daily kindergarten. The advent of the First World War in August 1914 could not have come at a worse time for the Club; its effect on membership led to the curtailment of some of the sporting activities. The cricket fixtures were all played but football fixtures were cancelled after a few games. Football did resume again in 1915, but thereafter, only occasionally during the war. Games of hockey were also played during the war. A new section - the Rifle Club, was formed in September 1914 with matches commencing in the October. Presumably members were preparing themselves for duty in the forces. A minute states 'that everyone should learn how to handle a gun and shoot straight'. With the onset of war, many members enlisted and it is sad to report that the first three members of the Club, who lost their lives were members of the Rifle Club. Their names went on a Roll of Honour.

The entrance to the RRC in 1924 The Club also endeavoured to help those in need. A prime example of this was focused on members of the Armed Forces hospitalised at Whitchurch. The Club organised a fete for them and catered for 100 servicemen. It also welcomed them to use the greens and courts. A group of members visited the hospital and presented them with a billiard table, which proved a real tonic and the minutes refer to it being played while Club members were still present at the hospital. During the war, the Club also hosted events for children from the Docks. Other groups were made welcome and charities were given free use of the Club's facilities. It is most satisfying to record the role the Club played in the community during the Great War but this role came at a great price. To quote from the Annual Report April 1918: "Many members are serving in His

Majesty's Army. Our minds and hearts go out in anxious thought to those many members...fellow members, good fellows all, with fervent hope for a speedy and safe return, not only to their homes but to join once again in fellowship with us." The loss of life of members during the Great War was such that nearly 50 members appeared on the Roll of Honour. We shall remember them. Limited copies of the book Rhiwbina Recreation Club 1914-2014 by Brian Rowlands are available from the Rhiwbina Recreation Club at ÂŁ5

A luncheon to celebrate the end of The Great War 39

Constituency News

with Julie Morgan AM

In September I attended an event to highlight a scheme which could see a starter kit or ‘Baby Bundle/Bwndel Babi’ delivered to mothers of all newborn babies in Wales, similar to the Scottish ‘baby box’ scheme – but ours would come with a Moses basket not a box. I was approached about the idea by a group and helped organise an event to promote the proposal which we hope will be taken up as an initial pilot scheme by the next First Minister at the end of the year. Over the summer I accompanied the Welsh Government’s Environment Minister, Hannah Blythyn, along with Anna McMorrin MP on a visit to Snail’s Deli in Rhiwbina to show her how the ‘plastic-free Rhiwbina’ campaign is working in practice. She is very concerned about the issue of single-use plastic in particular and is consulting on proposals that would help put the onus on producers to reduce the amount of plastic they use for their goods. In September I held a ‘red gazebo’ pop-up surgery at Cefn Onn Park and one of the issues we were talking to constituents about was their views on puppy farming. Many of the puppy farms which supply fashionable breeds of dogs to unscrupulous pet shops and sellers online are, sadly, found in rural Wales. There was strong support for our petition which calls for greater regulation of the ‘third party’ sale of pets – so, for example, people would only be able to buy pets from regulated breeders where they can meet the mother. I would like to see us bring in similar rules to those proposed in England under the so-called ‘Lucy’s Law’ named after a badly treated Cavalier Spaniel rescued from a Welsh puppy farm who has become a celebrity in her own right. I attended an event in support of ‘Lucy’s Law’ at the Assembly in July and there was crossparty support for it and the Welsh Government has promised it is looking into the issue. 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. Surgeries: Mondays 10-11am, Llangranog Road, Llanishen; Fridays 17 Plasnewydd, Whitchurch 12:301:30pm 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

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the

quarrymen The quarries in and around Morganstown are geological marvels that have been quarried since prehistory. Jim Taverner recalls working there with his father during the 1940s and 50s, and remembers some of the colourful characters and dangerous jobs

My father, Chris Taverner and his friend Bill Brown worked for F. Bowles & Sons (later to become British Dredging) as Company Secretary and Accountant respectively, before and during the Second World War. In 1946, they decided to become self-employed and to that end, they formed Abbey Quarries Ltd. and also Abbey Sand & Gravel Ltd. They negotiated the leases of Tynant and Portabello quarries from Mr. Edwards of Taff’s Well. Portabello Quarry, on the eastern side of the valley was unsafe for further quarrying but the machinery at Tynant still had some years work left in them. The deal also included workshops at Moy Road in Taff’s Well. The pair leased two sand dredgers, the Sand Moor (a converted ex-American Army triple screw Tank Landing Craft) and the Sandskipper, to suction dredge for sand in the Bristol Channel. They did this mainly beyond Steep Holm, thereby providing a complete aggregate solution for the post-war

building boom. They operated the vessels from East Dock, Cardiff. The machinery at Tynant itself included main and secondary stone crushers, grading drums for sizing the crushed stone, a Ruston Bucyrus 10RB excavator and three Bedford Tippers (two brand new and one Army surplus). There was also an office, a weigh bridge and a safety shelter (with a reinforced concrete roof) which also served as a tea room for the quarry men. On the B4262 Tynant Road were several large hoppers containing different sizes of aggregate and the tippers were loaded from these. Also in place, but not used was a gantry across the road for loading aggregate directly into rail trucks during the war years. These hoppers were sited where the present-day reconstructed lime kilns are situated. I can remember two of the quarry men. One was the Licensed Shot Firer, Albert Sullivan who lived at Greenmeadow in Tongwynlais and the other was Ken Mortimer,

lorry driver of Morganstown. As a small boy, I used to marvel at Albert Sullivan scaling the sides of the quarry, loaded down with a compressed air hose and heavy rock drills, and nonchalantly (or so it appeared) drilling the rock face and stuffing sticks of Gelignite down the holes. When it was time for blasting, everyone sheltered in the tea room but I couldn’t resist watching the results of Albert’s labours from the doorway. On several occasions, there were hits on the Tynant pub roof. My father would always take a hand at the hard work when there were staff shortages. On one Sunday, he was manning one of the big stone crushers. This entailed standing over the crusher jaws and using a large crow bar to dislodge blockages. Even at my adventurous young age, I considered this to be a fairly hazardous thing to do. I was manning the On/Off switch and following a cry of alarm from Dad, I threw the switch. Bouncing about among the rocks was a stick

history

Rhiwbina Speleological Society members at Ogof Ffynnon Ddu of Gelignite complete with fuse wire close by but no detonator cap! Phew! On another occasion, Albert the Shot Firer, was going on holiday. Before leaving, he had blasted a large quantity of stone to last until he returned. Much of this material was still in very large boulders, far too large for excavator and crushers. These had to be broken up into smaller pieces and a process known as plastering was used. Some of the more elderly among you may remember the peace and quiet of a Sunday afternoon being disturbed by a series of explosions in fairly close order. This was plastering. It entailed taking a stick of gelignite, inserting a detonator cap and cutting a length of fuse wire to the required length. This was then ‘plastered’ to the boulder with mud to direct the power of the blast into the rock. We had to set about a dozen of these charges all with different lengths of fuse, allowing us to

The old Tynant Quarry rock face, now complete with entrance tunnel into the Steetley Quarry.

light them all and make for cover behind the trusty 10RB excavator. You couldn’t be cavalier about the number of charges - they had to be counted at each detonation and if there was a discrepancy, a search had to be made to recover the missing delinquent. All went well and I had lit my half dozen with the lighting stick and was running for cover but the old man dropped his stick among the boulders and resorted to matches and only just made it! My mother would have killed him if she had found out what we had been up to. If there had been a Health & Safety Executive, they would have had a field day. Those were the days! There was also a character called Paul Tripp who had a blacksmith's shop on the other side of the valley. There didn’t seem to be anything that Paul couldn’t make from a piece of steel, shoeing horses one minute and repairing excavator parts the next. I remember him being a giant but jovial man who seemed to be liked by everyone. Lunches were invariably taken in the Lewis Arms in Ton with Ernie Hall the Butcher, Mr. Bennett the Garage, Maberly Parker (who had a Civil Engineering yard at Ynys Bridge) and many others. After about fifteen years of

operating, the machinery was just about worn out and with a building slump in the offing, it was decided to cease quarrying at Tynant and it closed for good in about 1958. Many years later, my son Shaun introduced me to caving with the 2nd Rhiwbina Scouts. Over a few years, I discovered many of the caves in southern Wales and to my surprise, thoroughly enjoyed it. In order to gain access to various caves, many of them locked, we became affiliated to the area's governing body using the name Rhiwbina Speleology Society - a pretty grand name for a small group of enthusiasts. On one of my last caving trips before old age, infirmity and pressure from my spouse put an end to adventure, I found myself roping down and swinging into the tiny entrance to a fascinating cave, Ogof Pen y Graig (I have since been made aware that the name is probably incorrect and that the Little Garth Cave is now connected to it), the entrance to which was on the vertical face of Tynant quarry. After a long, tight bedding plane crawl, we entered a small but beautiful chamber with great formations. How they had survived the constant blasting operations at Tynant and at the Dolomite next door, I shall never know. Talking of the Dolomite quarry, (later known as Steetley Quarry), for those of you who know the Little Garth, you will be aware that there were many areas of old mine workings and that attendant waste from these workings was put into convenient mounds. My father arranged to remove many hundreds of tons of this waste which was mainly limestone, sent it through the crusher and hey presto, aggregate ready for the market! I always thought that the old workings was a very spooky place. I think someone had fallen to their death in one of shafts in the 60s. I remember most of these shafts as being completely unguarded. I’m pretty sure too that the area was controlled by the War Department during WW2 and used to store important Government documents. Be aware that the old Tynant Quarry and that the entrance to Little Garth Cave (the entrance is gated) is private property.

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A Guide to the Probate Process by Emyr Pierce Losing a loved one is distressing and disorientating enough but relying on the guidance and advice of experienced lawyers at such a time can prove invaluable. The Administration of an Estate can be divided into four sections. First is the need to identify and evaluate the assets and liabilities owned or owed by the deceased at the date of death. Assets owned jointly with another may well pass automatically by survivorship to the other joint owner but these details will also be required to evaluate the overall Estate. Whilst this information needs to be disclosed to HMRC, all assets passing to a surviving spouse are exempt, or free, from tax. Immediately following the death, the ‘Tell Us Once Service’, on registering the death is useful, whereby all Government Institutions are notified automatically in one go, thus avoiding the need to communicate independently with each Government Department. Banks now recognise the fact that funeral expenses are the first claim on any Estate and if the deceased’s bank accounts are frozen following the death, on request, the Bank will discharge funeral expenses directly to the Funeral Directors on production of the funeral account, relieving bereaved relatives of this worry. Once identified the assets need to be evaluated at the date of death and the appropriate HMRC account is compiled from this information. For smaller Estates this account is relatively simple and straightforward, but for larger Estates the form is more complex with various appendices (depending on the type of assets involved), and will require completion by experienced and specialist professionals.

Where the deceased left a Will, the Executors appointed by the Will are charged with obtaining a Grant of Probate to the Estate, and will be required to swear an Oath for Executors and this, along with the original Will and Certificate from HMRC, is submitted to the Probate Registry from whom a Grant is subsequently issued in the name of the appointed Executors. The Executors are then free to administer the assets as required, or, as directed in the deceased’s Will. A deceased who does not leave a Will is deemed to have died Intestate, and, in the absence of a Will setting out the deceased’s wishes, the Intestacy Rules specify a strict order of entitlement amongst the deceased’s relatives. Once a Grant of Representation is obtained the assets can be realised, bank accounts closed, property sold, and the proceeds of all assets accumulated with a view to ultimately distributing the proceeds amongst the named beneficiaries, or those entitled in the event of an Intestacy. Should the person entitled to the Estate, for whatever reason, not wish to receive such entitlement, or does not wish to receive the full extent of such entitlement, a Deed of Variation can be entered into within two years of the date of death which will effectively vary the terms of any Will, or the 'Statutory Trusts', in the event of an Intestacy. Whilst all of this may appear somewhat daunting immediately after you have lost a loved one, the value of proper advice and guidance from qualified, specialist, lawyers cannot be over-estimated. We at Emyr Pierce Solicitors have a specialist Probate team whose members only undertake Probate work on a daily basis, ensuring that immediate attention is given to your case, and advice is available daily from qualified members of staff. For further details please contact Mrs Lauren Phillips on 02920 616002 or laurenp@emyrpierce.co.uk.

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pets

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 question, email us at editor@livingmags.co.uk Do you have to put my pet under using anaesthesia to perform dental work? My dog has what looks like a fractured tooth that doesn’t seem to bother him too much so I’m trying weigh up whether it’s worth taking out. Unfortunately, all dental treatment in dogs and cats has to be done under general anaesthesia. Even a simple scale and polish is uncomfortable, and the patient MUST be still to avoid the risk of injury from sharp instruments. The tartar that causes most of the discomfort and inflammation lies in a groove or pocket between the tooth and gum; it is impossible to clean that properly in a conscious animal. The tartar that you can see if you lift the lip and look is merely a cosmetic extension of the diseasecausing part, and when teeth are cleaned without anaesthesia this is all that is removed – it’s a cosmetic exercise of no real benefit to the dog. Broken teeth are quite common. Dogs can injure their teeth catching sticks or balls or playing with other dogs. Sometimes they break when chewing bones or antlers. The significance of the fracture needs to be assessed by your vet. It depends how much tooth has broken off, which tooth, and the age of the dog. Many broken teeth will go on to form painful abscesses, so it is usually better to extract the stumps before that happens. The fact that your dog doesn’t seem too bothered does not mean that there is no pain – dogs are generally very good at

just getting on with life in spite of various pains (eg. arthritis, bad teeth, tumours), so my advice would be to ask yourself 'how would I feel if that were my tooth?', not to look at him and think he’s ok because he’s not complaining. My cat is nearly 10 years old and over the last few months, seems to be walking less on her left back leg. It’s not obvious to the untrained eye but I wondered whether it could be ‘wear and tear’ or in fact, whether cats get arthritis like the rest of us oldies! Cats certainly get arthritis, and it is one of the great unrecognised epidemics! Cats are very sensible creatures, and they avoid doing things that are painful, so if it hurts to walk or jump, they just don’t - and owners often don’t even notice! Dogs on the other hand, are often so determined to go for their walk that they will hobble along in a dreadful way, when they’d have been much better staying at home! So I would congratulate you for noticing this limp, and suggest you get your cat checked out. Of course, there could be another reason for the limp – perhaps an ingrowing toenail – and your vet will be able to see what’s going on. The good news is that if it is arthritis, there are some very effective anti-inflammatories for cats, so she doesn’t need to continue suffering. My partner and I are interested in getting a kitten. Do they need all their jabs before they

are allowed outside? How does it all work? Forty or fifty years ago, infections like cat flu, infectious enteritis and leukaemia virus were widespread and a big problem for many pets. We are fortunate now to have vaccines against several of the worst ones. As a consequence, the prevalence of these diseases has fallen sharply, but they are still out there in the feral cat populations. Therefore it is essential that all pet cats are vaccinated before they start going out and meeting other cats who might be carrying an infection, and that booster vaccinations are given at the required intervals. For a young kitten, the vaccination programme starts around nine weeks of age, with a second dose given 3 weeks later. Immunity takes a week or two to build up to full strength and until then, he should stay indoors in your house. You could allow him in your garden, supervised to warn off other cats, and that would only put him at a tiny risk. However, most kittens of that age are quite content to play indoors. So as long as he has a litter tray and your company, he will be fine.

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Ever heard of a Spine Transplant? Neither have we! That’s why it’s important to look after the one you have. So here is some back-care advice for everyday living from the team at C3 When leading a busy lifestyle, the basic warning signs of back problems can go unnoticed. Of course, no one is immune from back pain but our chiropractors at C3 have some simple advice to help. Our chiropractors are asked by their patients about the ideal posture and the general guidance they give is: • There is no such thing as a ‘perfect posture’; the key is to avoid remaining in positions that cause discomfort, in other words, finding positions to sit, stand and sleep that are comfortable and this will be different for each person. • For the many people that report a link between certain positions and back or neck pain, they should be encouraged to vary their posture throughout the day and avoid those positions that cause discomfort. • For those people who find that sitting for too long does cause them backache, performing a short series

of movements through the day such as stretches can help to keep you active and reduce this. • If the pain persists then seek help and advice from one of our qualified and experienced chiropractors at C3 to assess and help you start moving again without pain. On our C3 Clinic website we have a series of videos which provide advice on different aspects of everyday life to help you prevent back problems. You can find them at www.c3chiropractic.co.uk. Effective treatment for: • Back Pain • Neck pain • Joint pains including hip and knee pain • General aches and pains from joints, muscle spasms and cramp • Headache caused by neck problems • Frozen shoulder • Elbow pain or tennis elbow • Prevention of migraine headaches • Sporting aches and pains Treatment is tailored to your individual needs and is suitable for all ages.

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10 ways to feel cosy in the cold weather 6 1. THE WARMEST, SNUGGLIEST JUMPER YOU CAN FIND You know the one. It’s been sat at the back of your wardrobe all year long but the evening will come when it needs to be brought out and snuggled into.

8 2. A STEAMING MUG OF HOT CHOCOLATE You can’t cut corners here. It has to be the best quality hot chocolate you can buy. You deserve it. Wrap your cold hands around it and let it warm you up from the inside.

65 3. A FILM YOU CAN SPEND THE EVENING WITH Forget about work, your troubles and anything else. Switch the box on, and be transported to another country or another world while you cwtch up on the sofa. And don't forget to bring your steaming mug of hot chocolate with you.

6 4. MAKE YOUR ROOM GLOW WITH FAIRY LIGHTS Fairy lights really do make your room seem magical. The subtle lighting they provide will also make your room seem warmer, even if it's cold outside. You can also twist and bend smaller microlights as the wire they are set on will hold.

5 5. A SELECTION OF COOKIES AND BISCUITS You’re allowed a night off every now and then. What better way of spending the night than with a few little tasty treats? If you have the skills to bake your own, it will leave your home smelling beautiful and your cookies will still be warm.

8 6. LIGHT SOME CANDLES Lighting candles can add another dimension to your room. Embracing all the senses, candles will help you relax. The ambience they give off will also make your home look incredibly cosy.

65 7. LATE NIGHT RADIO Turn the TV off and turn on the radio. Lying out on the sofa with late-night radio on is a surprisingly good way to unwind. Our preference would be Classic FM but you may want to listen to something more contemporary. Late night chat shows can also be a surprisingly good way to take your mind off the day's stresses.

8 8. A GOOD BOOK There's perhaps nothing cosier on a stormy autumn night than snuggling down with a hot drink and a good book. Autumn calls for comforting reads, spanning from old favourites and sweeping romances, to books you can dip in and out of in between naps. Pot of tea and a plate of hot buttered toast optional.

8 9. A PET Pets tend to react to your demeanour and if you’re snuggled up tight, they’ll do the same. Pets have the added benefit of keeping you warm thanks to their fur. A recent survey of 1,000 British pet owners - 500 women and 500 men - found that 54 per cent of women preferred cuddles from their pet in bed. Just 38 per cent of men said they would prefer snuggling with pets rather than their other half. Either way, there's a very good reason that we keep pets and that's so we can cwtch up with them.

65 10. SOMEONE ELSE It could be your partner, family member or even a good friend. If you're lucky enough to have any of those in your life, invite them over, get the fairy lights on, make some hot chocolate, put the radio on and serve up some freshlycooked cookies. Cosy times are a lot more cosy when they’re shared!

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provide a balanced meal using only the best local ingredients and use what we like to refer to as ‘clean and green recipes’. Meals made using clean and green recipes adhere to recognised standards for daily nutritional intake, that health professionals across the world want you to limit or manage. That means that we don’t go heavy on the salt, we don’t use preservatives and we certainly don’t use ingredients that aren’t considered good for you – simply just good natural food with good natural spices to provide food full of flavour. The food is however, just half the story. Our service is legendary with our local team going more than the extra mile to look after their customers and friends. Whether it’s helping to manage an order, putting the food away in the freezer, providing personalised cooking instructions or simply making someone’s day – our team are there to help.

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Nature's Autumn

Wrap up warm and head out to your local park where you can discover a world of nature's magic

Migrating birds Before you start looking to the ground, cast your eyes to the sky.

Autumn is when many birds form flocks â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from parties of long-tailed tits to huge flocks of waders on coastal estuaries and murmurations of starlings. Look for flocks of jackdaws, rooks and carrion crows flying to woodland roosts on Autumn evenings. If you live near the coast, look for great skeins of migratory geese which arrive from Arctic breeding grounds to spend the winter with us.

Blackberries You know it's Autumn when

blackberries gleam in the hedgerows. Pick the berries that are dark in colour, almost black. If you pick them too early, they will be red and bitter. Put your forefinger and thumb just behind the berry and gently pull towards you. If it easily pops off then it is ripe. It should leave the white end of the stem behind. Be careful approaching these bushes as they are covered in thorns and you could get hurt!

Squirrels The popular grey squirrel is most

active at dawn and dusk, searching for available food. Rhiwbina has become synonymous with grey squirrels due to the high population. During Winter, the grey squirrel does not hibernate as it cannot store enough energy to survive for long periods without food. To survive the lean cold months of Winter, a large, thick winter drey is built, usually on a strong branch close to the trunk of a tree. The squirrel will lie up in the drey in very cold weather, coming out now and then to search out hidden stores of nuts buried in the ground in Autumn. The stored nuts are spread around rather than in a single cache and are found by smell, rather than memory. Often they are not found at all and later may grow, helping the dispersal of trees. Winter dreys are often shared for warmth. As it sleeps, the squirrel curls its tail around its body to act as a blanket.

Fungi Fungi pop up all over the place:

on lawns and in parks, on piles of wood chip, on dead logs, on the ground and on the trunks of trees. Bracket fungi cause decay and rot in the heartwood of trees and produce bracket-shaped fruiting bodies on the trunk or main branches. These fungi usually lead to weakening and sometimes to the eventual breakage or fall of affected trees. Be careful when touching any type of fungi though as some are poisonous and can cause harm.

Spiders webs

It's only where there's been a cold Autumn frost that you realise how many spiders there are out there! You may be wondering how a spider is able to reach between two branches, which is often more than several feet. The answer lies in their web silk. They simply cast out a very fine thread which catches on the breeze, and which then attaches itself to a nearby branch. From there, they can construct their web, usually at night.

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feature

A-ZAUTUMN

Summer has faded and the storms roll in. The warm season is packed away for another year. Here's our A-Z of autumn Air

There's something very different about autumn air. After a long, stifling summer, autumn air is silky and crisp. It's cool and soothing all at once, gently caressing the earth, stripping the trees of their leaves and dropping them carefully onto the railway tracks in time for the Monday rush hour.

Bonfires

'In the other gardens and all up the vale, from the autumn bonfires, see the smoke trail!' So wrote Robert Louis Stevenson, who clearly didn't have his washing out on the line when he was in his creative element.

Conkers

In the early 2000s, a myth began circulating that schools had banned the game of conkers on the grounds of Health and Safety. Children across the UK were told that they couldn't use their vinegarsoaked, oven-baked, nail-varnished, diamond-gilt, cement-filled horsechestnut seeds. But then they realised that there was no such ban and before long, knuckles in school playgrounds were once again taking a battering.

Daylight Savings

That lazy day in October when the clocks go back, most of us get an extra hour in bed (unless you're a parent) and the clock in the car finally tells the correct time.

Equinox

An equinox is commonly regarded as the moment when the plane (extended indefinitely in all directions) of Earth's equator passes through the centre of the Sun. It is the point at which the centre of the visible Sun is directly above the equator. It occurs twice each year, the autumn equinox falling around 22ndâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;23rd September. If you don't quite understand that concept, Equinox is the fourth studio album by French electronic musician and composer Jean-Michel Jarre.

Fall

This is what our American friends call autumn. It describes the 'falling' of the leaves onto the ground, and not the 'falling' of pedestrians onto the ground when they slip on wet leaves.

Gloves

For the first time in what seems years, it's time to consider wearing gloves. You know where they are.

They're in the top drawer in the bedroom. Well one of them is. Where the other one has got to will be the subject of international debate for years to come.

Harvest

Keats described autumn as a season of 'mellow fruitfulness'. We presume he never had to plan for Halloween parties or coordinate a Bonfire Night get-together.

Internationals

Here in Cardiff, nothing says autumn quite like the rugby internationals does it? Forget Christmas shopping. That can be done in the days leading up to Christmas.

Jumpers

They've been sat in the drawer since the spring. But pull on your favourite jumper and it's like getting a cwtch from a much-loved friend.

Kitchen

The part of the house that over the summer becomes somewhat neglected, but comes to life in autumn. Expect partners to constantly be stood in front of the drawers or cabinets that the other partner wants to get into and mumblings of 'Sorry'.

Leaves

Rain

Melancholia

Squirrels

The last leaves fall, crackle underfoot, wintercrisp in brilliant blazes of red, orange and gold. They're also very good at hiding doggy doo-doos which you can only discover once you've stood in them. Autumn is often associated with metaphors of ageing and the passing of time. Writers and poets often wistfully reminisce about a summer long gone and of cold, dark times ahead. What a bunch of depressing so-and-so's they are.

Nights

'As the nights draw in...' This is how we probably started every autumn edition of Rhiwbina Living since 2008. It's just sooooo cosy!

Oktoberfest

Held every autumn in Munich, Oktoberfest is the world's largest beer festival with over 6 million people attending the event every year. Visitors go there to sample local food, learn about Munich architecture and take in German history. Oh. And to get off their trolley.

Pumpkins

Introduced from the US, pumpkins have now become a traditional part of the great British autumn. This large squash plant is often at the centre of traditional violent riots in supermarkets towards the end of October when stocks run low.

Quiet

As kids retreat from garden play areas into their bedrooms, the village falls quiet, save for Rhiwbina's dogs who take over noise pollution duties.

feature

Water condensed from atmospheric vapour and falling in drops. Often experienced during the autumn months. Usually just after you've paid to get the car washed. The autumn season traditionally sees squirrels preparing for hibernation by stocking up on food. However, this is another myth. Squirrels do not hibernate. Just like humans, if the autumn and winter weather turns bad, they simply stay indoors and watch Loose Women with a packet of Hob Nobs.

Television

As we all begin to hibernate in our homes, autumn is the time when TV schedules are suddenly packed with both new and wellloved shows. Wine in the garden is replaced by wine in front of the telly.

Umbrella

Your new best friend. Until next spring that is. Look after it, love it, cherish it - and it will reward you with months of almost perfect hair when you get to work.

Vegetables

With the autumn harvest comes the bountiful abundance of vegetables. For those with allotments, there are never enough friends and family to donate them to.

Wellies

They've been at the back of the cupboard all year long, taking up room and getting in everyone's way. But boy, do they come into their own when the autumn storms roll in. God bless Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington, the man who popularised them during the early 19th century.

Xanthophyll

Any of several yellow carotenoid pigments, including lutein and zeaxanthin, produced by plants and green algae and visible in the leaves of deciduous trees in the autumn. And there was us thinking we'd struggle to get a word beginning with the letter X.

Yeti

A hairy humanlike animal purported to inhabit the snows of the high Himalaya Mountains. Can be spotted waiting to collect their children outside schools at 3.30pm on stormy autumn days.

Zygodactyl

Having two toes projecting forward and two projecting backward, as certain climbing birds. Comes in handy if you're trying to slowly creep down Heol-y-Deri when it's covered in wet leaves.

Jane Clarke Hypnotherapy

Providing full tree, grounds and estate maintenance and landscaping services. We’re very proud of what we do for our clients and like most people who work in nature we spend a lot of time on our knees in one way or another. This is always humbling.

Help with weight loss, body confidence, self-confidence, relationship issues, smoking, addictions, fears, phobias & anxiety

Now, whether you call it humility or respect or admiration for nature, if you’re looking to work with a company that cares about these things TR33 could be what you’re after.

Appointments in Rhiwbina or online via Skype

janeclarkehypnotherapy.com jane@janeclarkehypnotherapy.com

For a free no obligation quote please contact

0800 298 3686 I info@tr33.co.uk

07538 474807

www.tr33.co.uk

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The Four Seasons By Candlelight 25.11.18

Wales Festival of Remembrance 03.11.18

John Wilson & The John Wilson Orchestra 04.12.18

Journeys Through the Badlands & Beyond

Levison Wood 02.11.18

Snow Maiden, The Nutcracker, Swan Lake & Cinderella 19.12.18 - 31.12.18

An Evening with Bradley Wiggins 17.11.18

Dr John Cooper Clarke & Simon Day Luckiest Man Alive 02.12.18

Little Baby Bum 12.30pm & 3pm - 10.30am & 2pm 29.10.18 - 30.10.18

David Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Doherty You Have to Laugh 08.11.18

Autumn

hot pots Nothing welcomes you home on a cold autumn night like the smell of a delicious hotpot. Time to hunker down, shut out the world and tuck in

Sausage casserole 6 Cumberland sausages 1 teaspoon olive oil 1 onion, chopped 2 carrots, chopped 1 leek, chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1 tablespoon plain flour 175ml red wine 1 teaspoon tomato purée 1 teaspoon mixed herbs 1 bay leaf 1 pinch salt 1 pinch ground black pepper 300ml vegetable stock (hot) ☐ Using a pair of kitchen scissors, cut the sausages into small chunks. Heat the oil in a large pan and fry the sausages for 5 minutes until they are browned. Remove the sausages from the pan and place into a flame-proof casserole dish. ☐ Drain most of the oil from the pan and then add the onion and cook for 5 minutes. Add the carrots, the leek and the garlic and cook for a further 5 to 10 minutes until they start to soften. Add the flour and the red wine and stir with a wooden spoon, scraping at the bottom of the pan to make sure that it doesn't stick. Stir in the tomato purée, then transfer the mixture to the

casserole dish. ☐ Add the herbs, the bay leaf, the seasoning and the stock to the casserole and stir thoroughly. Bring it to the boil and then cover and reduce the temperature, simmering for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve with a dollop or two of mash.

Slow cooker method

Follow step 1 then transfer all the ingredients into a slow cooker. Cook on a high setting for 1 hour then reduce to a low setting and cook for a further 6 to 8 hours. Slicing the sausages before cooking results in them absorbing the juices during the cooking process and remaining juicy and full of flavour.

recipes "This warming casserole will take time to cook but all good things come to those who wait

Beef and Guinness Stew 4 tbsp olive oil 1 large onion, finely chopped 150g streaky bacon, finely chopped 1.6kg shin of beef, cut into 5cm chunks 3 tbsp plain flour, seasoned 600ml Guinness 500ml good-quality beef stock 1 bouquet garni ☐ Heat 1 tbsp of the oil in a large casserole dish over a medium heat and fry the onion for 2-3 minutes until soft. Add the bacon and fry for a further 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove and set aside. ☐ Dust the beef in the seasoned flour. Heat the remaining oil in the casserole dish over a high heat and fry the beef, in batches, for 3-4 minutes, until browned all over. ☐ Reduce the heat to medium, return the onion and bacon and all the beef to the casserole dish and add the Guinness, stock and herbs. Season well and it bring to the boil. ☐ Reduce to a simmer and cook, partially covered, for 2½ hours until the meat is meltingly tender. Season before serving half the stew with creamy mashed potato.

Slow-cooked marrow with tomato & fennel 1 young marrow (about 1kg) 4 tbsp olive oil, plus a drizzle to serve 1 rosemary sprig, plus extra leaves chopped to serve pinch of fennel seeds 2 red onions, finely sliced pinch of dried chilli ½ fennel bulb, sliced 2 garlic cloves, crushed 50ml white wine 500g tomatoes, chopped 1 tbsp red wine vinegar 2 tbsp capers

large pinch of salt, and cook for 10 minutes until the onions are starting to colour and sweeten. ☐ Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for another minute. Turn up the heat slightly, add the marrow and a good grind of pepper, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring so it doesn’t catch. ☐ De-glaze the pan with the white wine. Cook until it’s evaporated, then add the tomatoes and red wine vinegar. Stir to combine everything, then turn down the heat and cook, stirring occasionally,

on the lowest heat for at least 35 minutes, until the tomatoes have concentrated and the marrow has taken on all the flavours in the pan. Stir in the capers and butter beans to warm them through. ☐ Toast the sourdough and cut each slice in half. Divide the mixture between four plates, then spread the toast with the goat’s cheese (or vegan alternative), drizzle with some olive oil, scatter over the oregano and rosemary, and serve.

400g can butter beans, drained 2 large slices of sourdough, to serve soft fresh goat’s cheese (optional), to serve 1 tbsp oregano, to serve ☐ Halve, de-seed and chop the marrow into chunks. Toss in some salt and leave the chunks to drain in a colander for 30 minutes to remove excess water. ☐ Heat the olive oil in a large pan over a medium heat. Add the rosemary and fennel seeds and cook for a few minutes until the rosemary is sizzling. Add the red onion, dried chilli, fennel and a

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