SEASIDE NEWS: November 2024 issue

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20

SUMMER FAYRE CHEQUE PRESENTATION

Dear Editor,

The Newton Church Summer Fayre cheque presentation 2024 took place in the schoolroom on October 11th , with a cheque for £8,324 presented to Father Wayne for the Church Restoration Fund. Our heartfelt thanks go to all who contributed to our Fayre. The helpers, performers, all who

PORTHCAWL METRO

Dear Editor,

As we await the opening of the new Metro Station (please ignore my statement if it has subsequently opened), it appears that the station has no able or less able, public toilets? However, it does have a living sedum roof. What would you prefer, toilets or a sedum roof? And were we consulted on the sedum roof or public toilet options?

I would estimate that to design in and build such a roof would cost between £50K and £150K - enough for toilets I would have thought?

I would also ask if the whole station has been built on the wrong side of the road?

Had it been built in the unfortunately named Hillsboro Car Park, access to the town centre could have been greatly improved, as could Park & Ride opportunities, wouldn’t they? Either way, if you are shopping, working in John Street or parking in the Hillsboro Car Park - you have to cross the road to get to The Metro Station, which is surely an added inconvenience for able, less able, children, and older users?

I would add, how many bus services exist to use the new Metro Station? For example, does it make sense that the excellent X2 Cardiff route calls at Porthcawl, however the X1 Swansea route does not? What about private coaches? What about National Express? What about other bus services between say from The

PROPERTY

THE AGE-OLD CHICKEN & EGG QUESTION: SHOULD YOU SELL OR BUY FIRST WHEN MOVING HOME?

So, you’ve decided it’s time to move, but now you’re facing the classic homeowner conundrum: do you sell first, or do you buy? This dilemma is like the age-old chicken and egg question and can leave many in a stressful position. Let’s break down the two main approaches and the pros and cons of each.

Selling First: Security but Pressure

Listing your property for sale first ensures you’re financially prepared when you find your next home. If you secure a buyer quickly, you’ll know exactly how much you have to work with and avoid the dreaded chain-breaking scenarios that can derail transactions. However, the pressure mounts if you haven’t found your next home by the time your buyer is expecting. This situation could leave you scrambling to find a suitable property quickly or even temporarily renting, which adds costs and stress not to mention how difficult it is to find rental properties at the moment. Worse still, you might feel forced into buying a home that isn’t ideal, or paying over the odds, just to secure something in time.

Buying First: Tempting but Risky

On the other hand, scouring the market for your dream home before listing your current one seems logical. You’re not under any immediate pressure to buy, so you can afford to wait for the perfect property. But this strategy comes with its own risks. Unless you’re in a financial position to carry two properties at

once (which most people aren’t), you’ll likely need to sell your home quickly once you find a new one. This could lead to you offering above market value on your new house to make your offer more attractive and needing to sell your current home quickly. Consequently, you could end up accepting a low offer because you’re suddenly a very motivated seller. Furthermore some vendors won’t even entertain a viewing from you if you are not at least on the market with your property.

The Balanced Approach: List and Prepare

There’s no definitive answer, but from an Estate Agent’s point of view, listing your home as soon as you’ve decided to move offers the most balanced approach. By putting your property on the market early, you avoid rushing into a purchase or underselling your home. Professional estate agents can manage expectations for would be buyers and help you find properties, often before they hit the open market, easing the transition between selling and buying. Ultimately, the key is to remain flexible, plan ahead, and communicate clearly with your agent to navigate the process smoothly.

If you would like any more information on this or any market related properties, call in to see us at 10 Lias Road, Porthcawl or call 01656 331577.

TERENCE MCHATTON MARLA MNAEA McHattons Estate Agents 01656 331577

BOOKS

BOOK OF THE MONTH

WHAT A WAY TO GO by BELLA MACKIE

‘I was immensely grateful that despite the gruesome way my husband died, he’d done it with his clothes on.’

Anthony Wistern is wealthy beyond imagination. Fragrant wife, gaggle of photogenic children, French chateau, Cotswold manor, plethora of mistresses, penchant for cutting moral corners, tick tick tick tick tick tick.

Unfortunately for him, he’s also dead. Suddenly poised to inherit his fortune, each member of the family falls under suspicion.

And that’s when everything comes crashing down…

CRAFT & CHAT

Join us every Tuesday 10:30-12:30 for Craft & Chat. Bring along a craft you’re working on, have a cuppa, meet other crafters and share ideas.

Guitar Tuition

Skellern

(Hons)

Graduate of Guitar Institute, London • All levels

Composition

Performance

Recycling everything Metal

Due to ill health I am now unable to collect any further items to raise money for SCBU. Over the last 50 years I have been able to raise money for many charities - The Noah’s Ark Appeal, Ty Hafan, SCBU. I have also helped many homeless and animal charities. I would like to thank the Seaside News for all their help with my advertisement - from which I’ve had countless phone calls over the years. I would also like to thank my wife and children who have also helped me over the years. However, I leave my biggest thank you which must go to the members of the public - for without your help and support I wouldn’t have been able to raise any funds for the many different charities I have been able to help and support over the years.

NEW BOOKS AT PORTHCAWL LIBRARY

FICTION

ONE OF US IS DEAD

Peter James

AN EYE FOR AN EYE

Jeffrey Archer

MIDNIGHT AND BLUE

Ian Rankin

BLOOD TIES

Jo Nesbo

IDENTITY UNKNOWN

Patricia Cornwell

HERE ONE MOMENT

Liane Moriarty

THE HIDDEN GIRL

Lucinda Riley

WE SOLVE MURDERS

Richard Osman

COUNTING MIRACLES

Nicholas Sparks

HONEYBEE

Dawn O’Porter

OUR DEAR DAISY

Rosie Goodwin

SYNDICATE

Felix Francis

KATE BLADON

Facebook: PorthcawlLibrary

INTERMEZZO

Sally Rooney

TELL ME EVERYTHING

Elizabeth Strout

MAP OF BONES

Kate Mosse

NON FICTION

GETTING AWAY WITH MURDER

Lynda La Plante

THE UNKNOWN WARRIOR: A PERSONAL JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY AND REMEMBRANCE

John Nichol

ROSS KEMP: MAFIA AND BRITAIN

Ross Kemp

WHERE THE FOLK: A WELSH FOLKLORE ROAD TRIP

Russ Williams

KINGMAKER: SECRETS, LIES AND THE TRUTH ABOUT FIVE PRIME MINISTERS

Graham Brady

Tel: 01656 754845 | 01656 754850 Email: porthcawl.library@awen-wales.com pyle.library@awen-wales.com

Many Thanks Stephen Caldwell.

PHOTOGRAPHS

BEAUTIFUL BLUE

CLEAR WATERS

DOE, A DEER

DYFFRYN HOUSE

MURMATION OF STARLINS

Stephen S, Porthcawl

Anthony Callaghan, Porthcawl

Sandra Beer, Porthcawl

Alan Rogers, Porthcawl

Joanna Waller, Porthcawl MURPHY LOVES THE BEACH!

Coral, Lee & Kate, Porthcawl

SUNNY PORTHCAWL

SEAFRONT SUNSET

John Osborne, Porthcawl

Oscar Davies, Porthcawl

Martin Everett, Kenfig Hill

Steve Thomas, Porthcawl

SANDY BAY

RED MOON RISING

PHOTOGRAPHS

PORTHCAWL AURORA BOREALIS

PORTHCAWL SUNRISE

THE LATE BLOOM OF SUMMER

AURORA BOREALIS OVER PORTHCAWL

ALMOST THERE

Maximus Slaughter, Porthcawl

Steve Berry, Porthcawl

John Osborne, Porthcawl

Josh Lia, Porthcawl

Marilyn Cook, Bridgend

Judi Russell, Porthcawl

Briana Burtonshaw, Porthcawl

ST JOHN CHURCH, NEWTON

Steve Berry, Porthcawl

Daniel Ryan, Porthcawl

Rachel Jones, Porthcawl

Sandra Beer, Porthcawl

PHOTOGRAPHS

SPRING TIDE REFLECTION

REFLECTIONS

EVENING GLOW

WILDERNESS AUTUMN COLOUR

HEART OF ERYRI/SNOWDON

I’LL SIT WHERE I WANT

Daniel Ryan, Porthcawl

Anthony Callaghan, Porthcawl

Daniel Ryan, Porthcawl

Pat Lathey, Penyfai

Alan Rogers, Porthcawl

Michael Cook, Bridgend

Aston Desforges-Grey, Penyfai

Sandra Beer, Porthcawl

PHOTOGRAPHS

PORT TALBOT FROM A PLANE

BEAUTIFUL GRAFFITI MURAL

STEELWORKS SUNSET

STEPPING STONES

Vicky Morgan, North Cornelly

Neil Woods, Bridgend

Ron Henderson, Kenfig Hill

Chris Jones, Penyfai

Maximus Slaughter, Porthcawl

KENFIG POOL SUNSET

Mark Greenslade, Porthcawl

Juliet Phillips, Cornelly

PHOTOGRAPHS

AUTUMN SUNLIGHT IN LALESTON

SUNSET BENCH

END OF SUMMER

WATERFALLS & ROCKPOOLS

PEBBLE ART

Judith Holden, Porthcawl

Joanna Waller, Porthcawl

Daniel Ryan, Porthcawl

Joanna Waller, Porthcawl

Leigh Harris, Porthcawl

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PORTHCAWL MAYORS MESSAGE

Firstly, many thanks to those who attended the Public Meeting on 7th September to discuss the provision of toilets in Porthcawl. A number of views were expressed on the options but the general response was to keep the John Street toilets open – but there are cost implications. Following the meeting a wider community consultation process has commenced which will be concluded in late October. Results and decisions will certainly be shared. The current unsatisfactory situation cannot continue.

I hope that many of you have seen the zero tolerance to bullying posters on the fencing around the Griffin Park playground. The posters were drawn by children in the Primary Schools and are very impressive – even if some of them are now a little soggy due to the September rain. The posters will remain until mid October and one of the drawings will be selected and added as a logo on the Town Council literature. If you have not yet put forward any suggestions for the Peoples Budget (£20,000 allocated for community schemes) there is still time to do so via the Town Council website or by calling into the Mary Street office. We would like to make the final selection in November.

To consult on John Street Toilets, visit the Porthcawl Town Council Website: Public Conveniences | Porthcawl Town Council or alternatively email toilets@porthcawltowncouncil.gov.uk

CLLR J PERREN OBE

Mayor Porthcawl Town Council

HELP VULNERABLE PEOPLE ENJOY CHRISTMAS DINNER

With Christmas around the corner, I would like to ask residents, businesses and local organisations if they could once again support the annual festive dinner for vulnerable residents of Bridgend County Borough.

Produced by volunteers at the Talbot Community Centre in Kenfig Hill, last year’s event was hugely successful as we cooked a traditional Christmas dinner and distributed it along with presents and festive treats to more than 750 vulnerable people, including local families, elderly residents, refugees fleeing conflict, the homeless and more.

For 2025, we are aiming to cover as much of the county borough as possible thanks to a small army of fellow volunteers and community representatives.

As the main cook for the event, I am looking forward to donning my kitchen whites and hair net once more with able support from fellow ward members, Councillors Huw David and Mike Kearn.

We hope that with the valuable efforts of local people, businesses and organisations, we will be able to support even more vulnerable people, and help them to enjoy a very merry Christmas.

Donations of food, produce, gifts or money in support of these efforts will all be gratefully received – please email me at cllr.jane.gebbie@bridgend.gov.uk to find out more.

COUNCILLOR JANE GEBBIE

Deputy Leader Bridgend County Borough Council 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk

NEXT PHASE OF REGENERATION IS SET TO BEGIN

Porthcawl’s ongoing regeneration has reached an important milestone with news that Bridgend County Borough Council and Welsh Government are developing a final masterplan and design code for the waterfront area.

As well as adding a further layer of detail to how land will be used to regenerate the waterfront area and maximise the benefits that it can offer, this presents an opportunity to pause and check whether further improvements can be made so that any final developments can best meet the aspirations and ambitions of residents, visitors and local businesses as well as those of the Council and Welsh Government.

Consultation remains a hugely important part of what we are trying to jointly achieve, and we have previously amended our proposals to reflect the views of key stakeholders.

To support the development of the masterplan, we will be once more asking for your feedback as part of a widespread public consultation, and will be organising local exhibitions and a dedicated website as part of this.

Your feedback will be used to inform the masterplan and design code, so don’t miss out – watch out for further news on the consultation and public exhibition, and make sure you take part and get involved.

COUNCILLOR NEELO FARR

Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Wellbeing Tel: 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk

TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR 2025 GOLD CHAMPIONSHIP

History will be made in 2025 when the AIG Women’s Open golf championship visits Wales for the first time and places Porthcawl at the centre of the largest women’s sporting event ever to be played here.

As a world-class championship, which attracts some of the top players in the world, the Royal Porthcawl Golf Club will host the sport’s best women golfers when the event takes place between 30 July and 3 August 2025. Porthcawl has a proud history of hosting prestigious events such as this. They help to put both the town and the county borough on the map, showcase what we can offer on both a national and international scale, and provide a huge boost to the local economy. Tickets are already on sale and we are expecting to welcome a huge influx of visitors and golf fans for the event – you can find out more by visiting www.aigwomensopen.com

Elsewhere in Porthcawl, don’t forget that the seasonal rules have changed and dogs are once again welcome at Rest Bay, Sandy Bay, Coney Beach, Town Beach and Trecco Bay. This is in addition to Newton Bay, Sker Beach and Pink Bay, all of which remain dog-friendly all year round.

COUNCILLOR JOHN SPANSWICK

Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council Tel: 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk

LABOUR’S FIRST BUDGET

By the time you read this, the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves, will have unveiled Labour’s first budget. I have serious concerns about the potential tax rises in store from Labour for businesses in our community.

Under the Labour Welsh Government, Wales already had the highest business rates in the whole UK, but their decision to cut the relief put in place by the Conservatives effectively doubled the tax on the retail, leisure and hospitality sector. Now, Keir Starmer’s Labour Government at a UK level is considering raising employer national insurance.

Be in no doubt, this will deter businesses from employing more staff at a time when unemployment is rising across Wales. This is the wrong approach and not the way to grow the economy, as Labour promised to.

That is why I would urge people across Porthcawl and beyond to get in touch with your local MP, particularly if they are Labour, to get this view across that without creating a vibrant environment for Welsh businesses to flourish, we will sadly see deprivation creep in.

I would also urge people to shop locally and to back businesses in our area, because that is the best way to support our struggling high streets.

SUPPORTING OUR SMALL BUSINESS IN PORTHCAWL!

Small Business Saturday is a celebration of community spirit and entrepreneurship, encouraging us all to ‘shop local’ whenever we can and make a lasting impact on our communities and our local small businesses. Taking place this year on Saturday December 7th, this annual grassroots event encourages us to support the small businesses that enrich our towns and drive the local economy forward.

Across Porthcawl and Bridgend, we’re very fortunate to have a wealth of unique, independent businesses. From shops and quaint pubs to cozy cafes, these small enterprises provide jobs, add character, and bring innovation to our high streets. Supporting them isn’t just about financial transactions; it’s a way to invest in our community’s future.

Throughout November, I’m featuring some of the fantastic small businesses in our area on my Facebook page. You’ll get a glimpse into the diverse range of products, services, and stories that make each of these businesses special. Whether you’re shopping ahead of Christmas or simply looking to show your support, Small Business Saturday is an ideal opportunity. If you run a local business and would like to some free publicity, please reach us by emailing Chris.elmore.mp@parliament.uk. Let’s make this Small Business Saturday one to remember!

CHRIS ELMORE MP Member of Parliament for Bridgend & Porthcawl www.ChrisElmore.wales

DR ALTAF HUSSAIN MS

Welsh Conservative Senedd Member for South Wales West

POEMS

THE MOTORHOME

My name is Lottie the Motorhome, your holiday on wheels.

If you fancy some freedom, then tell me what appeals!

Up to four persons I can take in one go, As I’m a self-catering model with bicycles in tow.

If you want some adventure, a life on the road

Come and see Lottie and your luggage I’ll load.

Check in with my sat nav, set up your destination

Come through security then we’re off on vacation.

Whatever you feel like, what you haven’t yet explored

Countryside or beachside, home or abroad.

Whether it’s cruising along the length of the Rhine

Or zipping through Spain, the pleasure is mine.

If your passion’s for summer, then let’s follow the sun

We’ll live like beachcombers and have lots of fun.

When we arrive at our campsite, we’ll set up the awning

Lunch is served Alfresco, and we’ll soon have you yawning

After you’ve opened the wine and donned leisure wear

You can sit back, do nothing in your favourite deckchair.

But watch out for stowaways, it’ll be your grandkids onboard

Quality time with the two of you their just reward

They’ll always love the freedom to play and to roam

With much more fresh air than they’d ever get at home.

For the record, your accommodation will be en-suite

And the distance to my facilities decidedly neat.

One step to the bathroom, and one to the bed

There’s a dining room area with TV over your head.

Down from the ceiling drops the children’s divan

And a well thought out kitchen sits to the front of the van.

With all your home comforts right here in your camper

You’ll have time to yourself and your wanderlust we’ll pamper.

Spend the evening playing games or even star gazing

Sit around the firepit with marshmallows; simply amazing!

Sleep soundly and wake to the cockerel or bells

The sausage and bacon sizzling and the coffee pot smells, Then after breakfast, we can decide what to do

No pressure or rushing, it’s all up to you. Stay here a bit longer or go with the flow For the beauty of a motorhome is we can get up and go.

Verne Farrugia, Porthcawl

IDOLATRY

Nature’s umbrella, Flamboyant Tree, reaches its limbs to shelter me.

Monkey Puzzle thoughts run riot. “shush” I must the devils quiet.

A pruned back Universe create, on Bodhi mantras meditate.

Deciduously now I shed, “coffin” Elms of darkest dread.

So green shoots my furtive search, germination of the Birch.

Hawthorne’s healing leaves are kind, bringing quiet to the mind.

Branching out new hope to grow, Cherry Blossom’s flower glow.

Reborn here my soul take root, nurtured by the Apple’s fruit.  Serenity, beautiful power, illuminates our darkest hour.

Wilfy Edwards, Porthcawl

THE AGE OF DISTRACTION

Bowed head, rumour spread

Easy to accuse, no time to muse

Empty eyes, the soul dies

Cyber frazzled, brain addled

Text addiction, less brain retention

Vacant look; lacking a book

Gratification instant ,patience distant

Identity taken, dignity forsaken

Online abuse, no excuse

iPods in, tinny din

Crypto mining, wealth declining

Unsocial media, mass hysteria

More online action, less public interaction

Zombie nation, less creation

Click on wrong link, feel heart sink

Going viral, vicious spiral

Doomscroll, what’s the goal?

Eyes off the road; may hit that load

Spell-check skipped; standards slipped

Blue light; sleepless night

AI, pie in the sky

Lamppost bent; vehicle dent.

Simon Warmingham, Pencoed

TIME

Slipping through my fingers like water down a drain,

I tried to grasp the wings of time but only memories remain.

Those glorious days of childhood, playing in the park,

Returning just for meals and staying out till dark.

No parched, dry skin, no creaking joints, no lines upon my face,

No fears and no worries, summer days stretching into space.

A simpler life, less hectic, without the fuss and stress,

A girlfriend’s kiss preserved in gilt, a magical caress.

When limbs were lithe, tanned golden brown and strong as trees, Prospects, dreams and wishes floated serenely on the breeze.

We didn’t have life’s knowledge, but did we really mind?

We had the time, we owned the world, the rest was ours to find.

But that was then and this is now, the time it galloped past,

Hopes extinguished, darkness nears, it all slipped by so fast.

Those days are gone, life’s moved on, time has won the fight,

I sit and recall the golden days as dark replaces light.

And I’ll take comfort in my memories, the small jewels that I own,

To love and cherish every one - for they are mine alone.

John Coutanche, Porthcawl

CONNECTION

He keeps a letter sent to his mum, From an army major only his Father knew.

A letter from a stranger that changed his life,

Telling how his Dad had given his.

Penned in ink and written well, A lasting connection to a memory. He can’t recall a voice or a face, But remembers a loving touch

When we lose because our loved ones give It’s hard to understand why. They answered their countries call, For their family to live free.

The world keeps moving on And memories sometimes fade Always keep a piece of the past As it helps to understand why. Andrew Murphy, Bridgend.

WIZZ BANG

(from a dog’s point of view)

Wizz, bang you think it’s fun, to light up the sky brighter than the sun, An acrid aroma fills the air and loud bangs are coming from everywhere.

There’s no escape, there’s nowhere to run, but hey, wizz bang, to you it’s just fun!

You build a bonfire, which crackles and roars, I shiver and shake behind the door. I pace and pant, and try to hide, I start to scratch and refuse your bribe. I run for the door, then change my mind, then hide in a corner, are you all so blind?

There are smiling faces everywhere, all unaware of why I’m so scared. I try to run, and dig a hole, ‘cos over this nightmare I’ve no control. But hey, wizz bang, you think it’s fun, To light up the sky, brighter than the sun!

Just draw the curtains, put on the T.V., but first insure I’ve been out for a pee! Play some games, reward me with treats, to keep me calm and my fears to defeat. Make me a den that’s cosy and warm, keep me safe from the gathering storm.

Ask your neighbours if they’re planning a do?

Ask them what time, so you’re well clued! For it only takes one single fright, to make your furry friend want to take flight,

We’ve no escape, and nowhere to run, Please think, wizz, bang, to us it’s not fun!

Claudette Evans, Kenfig Hill

STEEL NEWS

A grand old lady, made of steam, A tired workforce, as one a team. A silver dragon, filthy and hot In a place, sometimes forgot.

Orange skies and noxious fumes, Miles of steam over distant dunes Towering steel, thunderous noise

Distant echoes of men and boys.

Margam, Port Talbot the Abbey Works, After 100 years, it’s bound to hurt.

Lez Thomas, North Cornelly

THE FINAL HOUR

At the end of an era, the final hour, In this tightly knit Steel Town. The last blast furnace shuts down. They have slain the sleeping dragon, Stilled its beating heart, Witnessed its last dying breath And torn a grieving town apart. Generations have toiled there, Grandfathers, fathers, husbands, sons. Whole families producing finest steel. ‘They were the lucky ones.’

What now? Now that the flame has died, When so many fought to keep it lit. The old ways of making ‘proper’ steel Are now not ‘Green’ enough! That’s it. An electric arc furnace instead of coal, Our ancestors would turn in their graves, While the shameless re-light flames in foreign climes,

‘It’s their own future that will be saved.’

Catherine Millard Payne, Bridgend

FOLLOWING JESUS IN BAPTISM

We have not heard you call our name, To follow as the twelve, Yet gladly we would make it known

As plunged beneath the waves We’re raised again in newness of life

New life with Jesus, who came to save. Oh do not fear, you’ll know the way. Choose Christ, who’s gone before you, And walk with Him, the shining path –To forgive, renew, restore youA new generation, now arise, To know God’s grace and glory. With love and prayers,

Pauline Lewis, Pinehurst

LOSS

Can’t you see You already have lost me  It’s only my shadow that lingers near A faint reflection of what I used to be

An echo of my love that you once held dear

My heart’s escaped  beyond your  clutching hands

No longer chained by promises untrue In freedom’s light, my spirit now  boldly stands

Let shadows linger  where they always fade

For I am gone now  beyond the loss You made. Dr Nadeem Iqbal, Bridgend

SCHOOLS

PORTHCAWL COMPREHENSIVE

SCHOOL

The first half of the autumn term is now complete, and all pupils have settled into life and learning at PCS. There have been a lot of extra-curricular activities taking place: music, drama, rugby, netball, football, computer science – too many to list! At the end of September, we held our annual Year 7 and Year 12 Information Evenings. It was lovely to meet so many parents and carers and we look forward to working in partnership together. At the end of October, we held our Year 6 Open Evening and the school was very busy with prospective families and pupils. We have developed a comprehensive transition plan and we look forward to getting to know our new pupils. Last half term, Year 9 visited the Porthcawl War Memorial, sixth formers attended the DT Innovation Awards, SEREN pupils visited Swansea University and Year 12 started their Geography Fieldwork. Finally, we are very pleased to announce that we have been awarded the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools – Gold Status in recognition of our excellent ‘whole school’ approach to mental health and wellbeing provision. Our practices for pupils and staff have been recognised as excellent – we are very proud of all that we do!

Mr Stephens, Head Teacher

ST CLARE’S SCHOOL

Your child’s early years are crucial years, shaping their development and future success.

Discover why St Clare’s holds Day nurseries UK Top 20 Award four years running with 10/10 parent reviews.

This is not just day care… this is a St Clare’s Nursery education with a full-time qualified teacher, Spanish, French, Welsh, Forest School, Music, and PE for children from the age of 2½. With surprisingly competitive fees from as little as £48.89 per day (or £37.75 with Bridgend’s Early Years Grant) that

include a home-cooked hot lunch and early drop-off from 8:00am.

From your child’s first day at our Nursery, they become part of St Clare’s family, accessing eleven acres of magnificent grounds and all our facilities and resources.

With deliberately smaller classes, our Early Years team ensure children acquire appropriate skills and knowledge and are cognitively challenged and supported. “In the nursery, practitioners have a strong understanding of child development. They use this knowledge well to plan stimulating activities that develop pupils’ skills holistically across areas of learning.” (Estyn, November 2022).

Call to book your personal tour and see the balance of small classes and quality teaching as well as opportunities for playbased experiences, where children choose and lead their learning.

Phone: 01656 782509

Deadline date for the December issue is: FRIDAY 15TH NOVEMBER

NEWTON PRIMARY SCHOOL NEWS

We embarked on a 400 mile round trip to London to compete in ‘The School Song UK‘ final. The group represented Wales in a national songwriting competition that featured schools from all corners of the Britain. They gave an outstanding performance of our original song ‘Back to the sixties’ and it was a hugely proud moment for all the children, parents and the school. They are such a talented and enthusiastic group and were one of only ten other schools that qualified for the final from over 1000 entries.  It was a brilliant day and the children gave absolutely everything but just finished outside the top 3. The standard of the talent was incredibly high and the winning school gave an amazing performance. The atmosphere in the event was very supportive, encouraging and appreciative. We are so grateful for the opportunity to participate and are already planning next year’s entry. Our music is also available to download or stream on all the major music services, just search for Newton Singer Songwriters!

Henley Jenkins, Teacher

Surf life saving is a very diverse sport and can o er something to suit everyone! At Rest Bay we provide high quality surf life saving, swimming, ocean and beach training.

If you would like your child to learn important life saving skills, how to be safe in the sea and have lots of fun at the same time with like minded kids, then get in touch.

Nippers are aged between 7-13. As a Nipper, your child will be taught surf safety, rst aid, surf and beach sports such as wading, surf swimming, board paddling, beach ags, beach sprints and relays.

Our Youth section is between the age of 13-18. During the summer months we train at Rest Bay beach, and also at Pyle Swimming pool throughout the year. Our focus is to teach our youth how to save lives.

Lots of youth members also like to compete in regional, national and international competitions. Our youth section also train to become Lifeguards and carry out voluntary patrols as part of our training programme.

Our aim is to provide the lifeguards of tomorrow with training to help keep themselves and others safe whilst enjoying our wonderful beaches.

If you would like more information please contact:

SCHOOLS

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION: NOTTAGE PRIMARY SCHOOL SHINES THIS AUTUMN

We’ve been excited to dive into our whole-school topic: Lights, Camera, Action! Students are exploring the world of storytelling and its evolution, with creative and fun activities taking centre stage.

Our youngest learners, the Nottage Explorers, have been animating their own voices using Adobe Express and enjoying autumn-themed activities like creating orange paint and counting conkers. The Nottage Experimenters turned our school hall into a cinema, inspired by ‘Toy Story,’ where they designed parachutes for Buzz Lightyear’s ‘fall with style’. They even engaged in lively debates, asking, “Is Woody a goody?” In Year 4/5, the Nottage Entrepreneurs are creating shadow puppet shows based on Welsh legends, developing their storytelling and artistic talents. Year 6 students have taken on the Pavilion Puppet Project, where they design, produce, and perform their own puppet show - honing teamwork and problem-solving skills as they prepare for secondary school. They’ve also enjoyed transition lessons in Science, French, and German from Porthcawl Comprehensive School. Lastly, we bid a fond farewell to Mrs. Pugh-Bevan and happy retirement to Mrs. Bloomfield; you will always be part of our Nottage family.

Thank you for being part of our community - we look forward to an inspiring term ahead!

Y6 School Council with Mr Edmunds

NEWYDDION YSGOL Y FERCH

As we look forward to half term, it’s good to reflect on the variety of learning opportunities and experiences we offer learners. The football and netball teams welcomed Pîl Primary to participate in friendly matches. Thank you for visiting us. Also, thanks to the school staff for coaching the teams and the parents for showing their support.

Learners from years 2, 3 and 4 attended the Urdd Jambori at Halo in Bridgend. Martyn Geraint entertained pupils (and staff!) from the four Welsh-medium schools in the county, with songs and dances. Mr Urdd (the mascot for the Welsh youth movement) also visited!

We have celebrated Diwrnod Shwmae, creating posters and making videos to promote the Welsh-language and encourage everyone to say “How are you?” in Welsh!

Year 6 have completed their first transition day at Llangynwyd, with a focus on the core subjects. The learners are looking forward to visiting again next term.

Our Pupil Voice Committee has been elected for the new academic year and we are about to embark on two exciting projects – The Siarter Iaith Gold Award and a Healthy Eating initiative.

For further information about Welsh-medium education, contact 01656 754865 or admin@yfos.pen-y-bont.cymru

FEATURES

A new group has just started at Porthcawl u3a. ‘Community Action Porthcawl’ (CAP) has brought together members who are interested in supporting activities within the community, whether they are for existing charities or filling an as yet unidentified need. If you would like to be involved at the start of this exciting new group, please get in touch. The monthly coffee mornings, open to u3a members and non-members alike, are proving to be very popular and well attended. They are generally held on the last Saturday of each month at the Seabank Hotel, however, if you are planning to attend, and you are very welcome, then please note the change of venue for November, December and January when the coffee mornings will be at the Atlantic Hotel. We are looking forward to the monthly talk on November 13th, which will be given by Dave Cannon on his ‘Israeli Experience’ and the monthly trip, which will be to Bedwellty House and Park in Tredegar.

If you are interested in finding out more about the over 40 groups and other activities run by Porthcawl u3a please see the website: porthcawlu3a.org.uk, e-mail: info@porthcawlu3a.org.uk Or phone: 07531 062146.

PORTHCAWL LIONS

First, apologies to anyone who did decide to call in on our coffee and cake morning only to find it cancelled. Unfortunately the date coincided with the museum coffee morning so the club felt unable to proceed with theirs. Porthcawl Lions have been busy planning their Christmas events and it looks like being a busy time. On Friday November 22nd. there will be a Christmas Fair in Trinity Church Hall in John Street. Entrance is free so why not call in between 10.30 and 12.30. to enjoy a very reasonably priced coffee and cake and browse the stalls. Then members must help Santa to get his grotto next to the Museum in John Street ready to welcome all his little visitors. He will be there every Saturday from November 30th. until Christmas, price £5.00 to include a present from Santa himself. There will be more news about the Boxing Day run in next month’s report.

Porthcawl Lions were very sorry to learn about the theft from Newton Lifeguards and were pleased to make a small donation to help replace their equipment.

JMC

PORTHCAWL INNER WHEEL

Our  November lunch meeting will  be on Bonfire night at the Hi Tide and   President Mary has devised a special Guy  Fawkes  quiz. we  normally try to have a variety of speakers but this is a change .

Our District 15 Rally is in Cardiff this year and look forward to meeting up with all our different club members and having a good catch up .

In December  it is our Christmas Lunch and we look forward to our Carols and pass the parcel games.

Yes we can be a lively bunch  ! and of course we are hoping for a good turn out to the Pantomime in  Port Talbot ... O yes we are..

we wish our member Suzanne a speedy recovery after a nasty fall, also our thoughts are with Catherine Princess of Wales on her speedy recovery from Cancer.

CC, MEL

PORTHCAWL TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD

In October Lynda Bryant visited us with the title of her lecture - A Pembroke Tale. Members were not given a preview of her lecture but all stories myths and legends relating to the Principality are always a constant source of enjoyment and enlightening. Members were delighted with Lynda Bryant’s lecture as it was meaningful and educational. Lynda’s lecture reminded us of how proud we all are to be living in the Principality .

November 13th will see Michila Harris, a local businesswoman, visiting us and sharing her extensive and specialist knowledge of wigs. I am sure members will look forward with interest to the afternoon’s meeting. A revealing and beneficial afternoon is anticipated with Michila’s visit.

This month will see us making preliminary arrangements to join our TG Federation in December . We eagerly anticipate and look forward to meeting up with our fellow guild members and catching up with our old friends. We will be joining them in a carol service to celebrate the forthcoming festive season . We do have a designated hostess to ‘meet and greet’ you, so if you are contemplating paying us as visit then do come along and sample our hospitality. We can promise you a warm welcome at our meeting. Our meetings take place on the second Wednesday of the month at 2.00pm in The Grove Golf Club.

Pat Ladlow

FEATURES

PORTHCAWL GUIDE DOG GAINS HIGHEST ACCOLADE

A Porthcawl puppy has been given one of Guide Dogs’ highest accolades. Corby, a handsome golden retriever raised in Newton, has been selected as a stud dog, which means he will help to produce future generations of lifechanging puppies at the charity’s National Centre in Leamington Spa.

Corby was named and raised by volunteer Sandra Corben as a tribute to her late husband, Neil, who died young just over a decade ago. The couple had planned to raise guide dog puppies together when they retired, a role Sandra eventually took on alone with great success. She said: “I am so thrilled and proud that Neil’s memory will live on and on through new generations of guide dog puppies. I enjoy telling people how Corby got his name, and hope it may encourage them to support Guide Dogs by leaving a legacy in their will.”

2117 (PORTHCAWL & KENFIG HILL) RAF AIR CADETS

The RAF Career Engagement Team visited the squadron on one of our parade nights. As well as discussing RAF Careers opportunities with the cadets, the team ran some exercises that challenged the cadets’ teamwork and communication skills. Everyone had a great time and we look forward to his or her next visit.

Pups like Corby live with their volunteer puppy raiser for about a year, following specific training routines and attending puppy classes. They learn how to behave in different environments, some bustling and noisy, such as shops, cafes, buses and trains, before leaving to embark on intensive training.

Find out how you can volunteer by visiting www.guidedogs.org.uk/puppyraiser

Picture shows Sandra Corben and golden retriever Corby at Guide Dogs’ National Centre in Leamington

THROUGH CHRISTIAN EYES

In the English language we only have one word for love. Therefore, we can say “I love my spouse”, and in the next breathe say, “I love chocolate”. In the Greek language however they have four different words for love depending on what is being referred to.  The words are 1. Storge, which means affection - maybe the sort between family members. 2. Philio, which means something like strong fondness. 3. Eros, which is to do with romance. 4. Agape, which means unconditional love. Agape is the word used in the bible when talking about God’s kind of love. God’s love is unconditional. It is always others centeredness and self-sacrificial. In fact the bible says that God is love (1 John 4 v 8). God loves because he is love. His love is directed towards you whether you know it or not. My encouragement to all this month is to get to know more of God and this kind of love. It’s this kind of love that could answer the problems we see in the world today. What would the world be like if everyone loved like God?   Let’s keep praying for agape love to cover the world.  Neil Harvey

We have had some great flying weather this month. Cadets attended St Athan and flew in the Grob Tutor aircraft, which you may see in the sky above Porthcawl. Cadets also get gliding experience, and occasionally flights in larger RAF aircraft. During the last few months several cadets completed their qualifying expeditions as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Three cadets successfully completed their Bronze expedition while another completed their Gold expedition. The cadets will continue to work on the other sections of their respective awards.

Most of our activities and uniform are covered by a small monthly subscription. If you are interested in joining as a cadet (age 12+) or as an adult volunteer (age 18+) please contact us on the e-mail below.

Sgt Huw Price RAFAC adj.2117@rafac.mod.gov.uk

MYNYDD CYNFFIG WI

We were glad of a break in the weather as we gathered in our usual meeting place the Talbot Centre Kenfig Hill. we meet on the 2nd Tuesday of the month 2pm till 4pm. If you’re passing, call in - we would love to meet you. We had a good turnout of members and a new lady came to see what we’re all about. After discussing WI business, we turned our attention to our Christmas meal - which we’re looking forward to. Our book club, saving club, scrabble club, walking group and lunch club, are all being enjoyed by our members. We had a hiccup with our speaker, but one of our members stepped up and gave us a very interesting talk on growing up in a little Welsh village. Sometimes we don’t know the talent our members have! Next month our speaker is giving us a talk on living and working in Hong Kong, which should be very interesting. Call in - tea and coffee always available.

Christine Callaghan

KENFIG NATURE RESERVE NEWS

On October 5th, National Fungus day was held at Kenfig. There were ‘Fungus Forays’, exhibits and photographs of all sorts of fungi, and experts were on hand to answer questions about the world of Fungi. 54 species were found on the day , including 23 different waxcap fungi, found only in unimproved grasslands which are an important feature of the Reserve Kenfig Nature Reserve is famous, among many other things, for the huge range of mushrooms and toadstools to be found there. Chris, our warden, reckons that there are over 1000 species growing on the Reserve, mostly producing their fruiting bodies in the autumn months. A walk around the Reserve at this time of year will reveal many of them in the grasslands and the wooded areas.

For more information, contact the warden at warden@ kenfignaturecorporation.com

FEATURES

NEWTON WI

A wonderful evening was hosted by Ellen at Coffi Un (One), promoting Fairtrade fortnight, the WI were honoured to listen to Jennipher Sambazi’s story, as  a coffee farmer on the slopes of Mount Elgon and now, Vice Chair of the cooperatives of 300 farmers who work together in Uganda producing a new Fairtrade organically grown coffee. Jenipher is a real trailblazer, equally passionate about producing quality coffee and protecting the environment from the impact of climate change. The Welsh Government, are supporting them with planting trees and farming organically, improving  soil health and protecting it from the flash floods that threaten to wash it away. A donation was presented from the WI to support the purchase of solar lighting for the farms.

Another memorable evening was held for the Harvest Supper, a wonderful homemade spread from the WI members, a quiz and not forgetting the WI camaraderie, what an enjoyable time everyone had, big thanks to Jen (President) the committee members  and our special members.  Every WI is different but as a WI members, we have a common purpose and a universal experience. We bring  women together of all ages and backgrounds. You’ll find friends for life here, come and join us.

Pam Powis

ROTARY CHRISTMAS POST

It may be a little way off just yet but yes, Christmas is coming and once again the Rotarian Posties are warming their thermals, because they are ready to deliver your Rotary stamped Christmas cards in order to raise money for Rotary.

So, if you are writing your Christmas cards early, DON’T POST THEM YET! From 18th November to 16th December, our Rotary ‘Posties’ will collect, sort and deliver Christmas post with specially designed Rotary Christmas stamps.

You will be able to buy Rotary Christmas stamps from participating local outlets and post your cards in special Rotary Post boxes at the stores to addresses in the CF36 postal area and still for only 35p! (3 for £1).

Please remember that cards can only be posted at the stores and can only be delivered to Porthcawl CF36 addresses. The stamps can be bought and cards posted at the following stores:

Greeting@Maple - John Street

Walters Shoes - John Street

Carpet Care - Well Street

Nottage Stores - Nottage

Brush Strokes - Station Hill

Bargain Booze - Newton

General Stores - Rest Bay

One Café - Newton

Pantri Box - Harlequin Building

Parc Stores - Cilparc

Sussed - James Street

Co-op - Lias Road & Newton

Rtn Robert Lee

CHURCHES TOGETHER, PORTHCAWL

I’m writing as co-secretary of Churches Together in Porthcawl, and I recently had the privilege to attend the Labour Conference in Liverpool to advocate for Parkinson’s UK. I was attending as a volunteer, sharing my lived experience of caring for my father, who had Parkinson’s with Lewy Body dementia, and who passed away last July.

Together with other volunteers and senior members of staff at Parkinson’s UK, we discussed 3 main topic areas, which were: NHS workforce crisis, the need for more Parkinson’s research, and better employment rights for disabled people, including additions to the Employment Rights Bill which is currently going through Parliament. Between us, we managed to discuss these important issues with 1 Secretary of State, 6 Ministers, several MPs who are taking actions forward, plus lots of Trade Unions.

It was fantastic to work with the team, and Mark Mardell (from the Movers and Shakers group) was great at Chairing the Parkinson’s UK Fringe event: How the Parky Charter could

improve lives for millions living with neurological conditions. Members of the panel were also joined by Stephen Kinnock, MP for Aberafan and Maesteg, who was fully understanding of the above issues and the need to do more. We hope to see change soon!

If you or someone you know needs support of Parkinson’s UK, please call their helpline: 0808 800 0303, and if you’re able to donate please visit: https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/donate Mark Worrall, Porthcawl

SKER WI

This month’s (October) speaker was Jeff Fish who talked about his experience walking up Africa’s highest mountain, Kilimanjaro. He had decided to do something special for a big birthday, which was coming up and, having had cancer in his 30s, picked up a Tenovus pamphlet, which gave details of an expedition to walk up Kilimanjaro to raise funds for the charity, which had helped him. After attending a meeting explaining the expedition, he signed up to take part, making both a physical commitment and committing to raise £4000. He actually raised £9000.

Preparation involved a lot of walking to build up stamina for walking for a long time. He had a demanding job but with the help of friends and motivated by why he was doing it, he kept going. Altogether there were 11 people who signed up and were supported by a team of guides, porters and cooks. They would walk from one camp to the next each day and Jeff paid tribute to the team who would set up the tents and prepare a hot meal each night. One lady did have to drop out  due to altitude sickness. The final part of the walk was completed at night using head torches and slowly walking a zigzag path up the mountain. The final 100 meters, done in daylight, took an hour due to exhaustion and lack of oxygen. It was an extremely interesting, inspiring talk and we were all left in awe of his achievement.

Pam Powell

TALBOT COMMUNITY CENTRE

Readers might remember me from several years ago, when, with volunteers’ help, I ran the Talbot Community Centre. I retired in January 2020, along came Covid, and the rest, they say, is history.

I am pleased to announce the Talbot is now under new management and an almost new Board of Trustees. Together with admin and finance support we are slowly bringing the Talbot back to the successful Community Centre it was prior 2020. Sadly we have lost several members due mainly to agerelated illnesses, but hopefully in the next few months we can re-build our membership.

Historically, the ‘Institute’ was a gift to the village from Lady Emily Talbot of Margam Estates in 1911. With a penny a week from the wages of the mining fraternity it remained a Miners’ Institute until the last colliery in Kenfig Hill closed in 1959. It fell into disrepair and was closed for several years before local volunteers successfully apply for a grant to refurbish the Grade II listed building.

The Talbot is owned by the community, run by the community, and used by the community.

Your support is appreciated.

Cheryl Butcher, Trustee E-mail us at: talbotcc@tiscali.co.uk

HISTORY

MUSIC MEMORIES - THE 1970S

This summer, on Toot.Wales, a social media platform on Mastodon, I ran a series of polls to identify the top twenty records of the 1970s. Thousands of votes were cast in hundreds of match-ups until we identified the top twenty.

As I anticipated, Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen (pictured) emerged as the overall number one with ‘Heroes’ by David Bowie at number two. New Wave/Punk records dominated the top ten - London Calling by The Clash, Heart of Glass by Blondie, etc, while the more melodic songs - You’re So Vain by Carly Simon, Baker Street by Gerry Rafferty, etc, occupied the bottom ten positions.

In all, the chart was an eclectic mix, reflecting the diverse nature of popular music in the 1970s - pop, rock, glam, punk, new wave and soul (disco records failed to attract much support).

Something changed, c1980, to affect the nature of popular music. Was the main driver of that change electronic musicthe increased use of synthesisers - or the advent of MTV and music videos? Maybe it was a combination of the two.  Personally, I prefer the emotion of 1970s music to the synthetic sounds of the 1980s. However, next on Mastodon we will chart the 1980s, and see what 1950s, 1960s and 1970s artists produced in that decade.

Hannah Howe, author of the Amazon #1 murder mystery, Sam’s Song https://hannah-howe.com

JOHN ELIAS – A PHILANTHROPIST

John Elias was born in Merthyr Tydfil 1864. When he was ten, the family returned to Porthcawl, his father, John’s, place of birth. John soon ran away to sea on the ‘Agnes Ellen’ one of four schooners built in the Porthcawl Dock in the 1870’s. Wednesday 5th July 1876, the “Agnes Ellen” set sail for Oporto. The ship was reportedly named after Ellen Palmer who, with her Aunt Mary,

ran a grocer shop in the ‘Square.’

John’s next venture was as a policeman serving in Penarth and Merthyr Tydfil before marrying Mary Hopkin in 1895 and subsequently becoming a farmer at Penyrheol, Tythegston.

For many years he was a member of the P.U.D.C. serving as Chairman three times. He was instrumental in Porthcawl getting its first constant water supply from Craig yr Aber reservoir in 1900. (middle in photo)

In 1907 he bought ‘Seabank House’ and in 1910 opened it as The Seabank Hotel, which he and his wife ran for years.

John was a keen supporter of the Porthcawl Municipal Bowling Club and served as a churchwarden at St John’s Church Newton. John died, three years after his wife, on 14th April 1940 at his home at 3, Picton Avenue leaving £23,511 to many organisations of the town.

Ceri Joseph

PORTHCAWL IN 1949

In the photos; Adrian Williams was a baby in the pram being pushed by his mother Becky. He was born in 1949 and his father Les was the head wine waiter at the (prestigious in it’s day) Seabank Hotel. Incidentally, it was the same year the England soccer team stayed at the Seabank and all signed the back of a menu for Les, which went on to be sold at auction a couple of years ago.

Pauline Williams, Porthcawl

HEALTH

COST OF CANCER

Can you believe that we are still receiving donations for Chris and Jon’s London to Amsterdam bike ride. We are always looking for ways of raising funds in order to help families so if you are doing an event please do consider Cost of Cancer. We still don’t have a Facebook page which is disappointing but I’m still trying to get it back. We do still have an Instagram page, but we don’t have as many followers on there, so please do give us a follow over on our Instagram page. If anyone knows the ins and outs of Meta and can help me to get it back please do let me know. We aren’t really in a position to look at putting our own events on until we have Facebook back as that was a way of us advertising the events.

Nicky, Emma & Cath Trustees

Deadline date for the December issue is: FRIDAY 15TH NOVEMBER

PROCESSED FOOD

The terms ‘processed’ and ‘ultra-processed’ are thrown around a lot and are usually associated with something negative, but what makes something processed or ultra-processed?   Unless you’re eating the broccoli you harvested directly from your garden, most of the food we eat daily has undergone some form of processing. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Processing food means changing its natural state to prolong its shelf life, make it safe to store or eat, enhance its taste, or even increase its nutritional value.

Methods like pasteurizing, canning, fermenting, freezing, and drying foods are forms of processing.

When a food is ultra-processed, it means that the producer uses industrial-scale methods and ingredients that you may not recognize and would not use in home cooking to produce the final product.

The NOVA food classification system divides food products into four groups based on how much processing they have gone through.

1. Unprocessed or minimally processed foods

Minimally processed or unprocessed food has not been altered or has no added ingredients. Washed and bagged spinach, pre-cut fresh fruit, or frozen vegetables are all minimally processed. They’re made to be more convenient to consume, but their nutritional value hasn’t been altered.

2. Processed culinary ingredients

Processed culinary ingredients are made from unprocessed foods through simple processing. This group includes oil, butter, sugar, salt, dried herbs, and spices. They are added to other foods, rather than eaten by themselves.

3. Processed foods

Processed foods are partially altered by adding sugar, oil, fat, salt, and other culinary ingredients to minimally processed foods. Processed foods like cheese, homemade or artisanal bread, and tofu have been altered, but not in a way that’s bad for our health.

4. Ultra-processed foods

Ultra-processed foods are entirely altered and have high levels of unhealthy fats, refined sugars, and salt.

They also undergo industrial processes, like hydrogenation and moulding, and contain additives like dyes, stabilizers, flavor enhancers, emulsifiers, and defoaming agents.

These foods are very calorie-dense and don’t contain many, if any, valuable nutrients. Cookies, chips, and fast food are all ultra-processed.

Ultra-processed foods are engineered to be convenient, extra tasty, and highly profitable for the companies that make them.

Taken from www.zoe.com and continues next issue.

Supplied by Glyn Hardwicke

YOU ARE TRULY LOVED

I wonder how you would feel if these words were said to you every day. Maybe by someone who loves you but more importantly by the person looking back at you from your bathroom mirror.

What a wonderful start to every day, choosing to receive words of optimism and care for yourself, rather than the negative outpourings from social media, TV channels, newspapers, phones and tablets. Who knows what would happen? Instead of berating yourself for actions in the past that you cannot alter, you return to the present and realise you are OK, just like most people - doing the best they can to live a fulfilling life. What if other friends, colleagues and families noticed your change in demeanour and they also copied your behaviour and began to be nice to themselves and others they came into contact with?

Who knows? The world around you would be a much nicer place to be, happier, thoughtful, and kinder, with drivers letting you out, people taking their litter home, neighbours offering to help each other.

As Ram Dass says “We are all just walking each other home”. So why not link arms and walk gently home together with love and support along the way, as none of us know how long the journey will be.

Margaret Brown

Word Search

FINANCE

DON’T LET EMOTION FOOL YOUR INVESTMENT DECISIONS

As the UK Government has just unveiled its latest budget, in the lead there has been a notable rise of non-advised individuals accessing tax-free cash from their pensions through DIY investment platforms.

While accessing tax-free cash from your pension might seem like an attractive and straightforward option, it’s often far more complex than it appears. Without consideration of your longterm financial goals and tax implications, decisions made in haste can lead to unintended consequences.

Let’s face it, there’s no app or social media post that can replace sound financial counsel. In fact, those who consulted with a professional would likely have made decisions far more aligned with their long-term financial goals, rather than following the hype of instant cash grabs.

And speaking of what social media isn’t telling you, there’s been a growing buzz that the Chancellor may quietly remove the Residential Nil-Rate Band (RNRB). For those unaware, the RNRB allows a greater portion of your estate to be passed tax-free. Without it, the Inheritance Tax (IHT) bill could see a significant hike.

Taking emotions out of the decision-making process, by allowing someone to mediate between your emotions and investment objectives highlights the benefits of financial advice.

Taking your tax-free cash without considering the full IHT implications, could leave you with a bigger bill down the line. With the possible removal of the RNRB, many who once

ABACUS ASSURANCE

believed their homes would be safe from the taxman may now be in for a shock, finding that the safety net they were banking on has been quietly whisked away.

The bottom line is this: don’t let headlines, apps, or impulse cloud your judgment. If the government’s budget teaches us anything, don’t allow media hype to dictate your financial future. So, before you make any investment decisions remember the importance of taking financial advice. Don’t let emotion fool your investment decisions.

MIA EASTMENT

Undergraduate Accounting & Finance & Junior Paraplanner

Abacus Assurance Financial Services Ltd.

Call 01656772222

SECURING YOUR LEGACY WITH A LIFETIME TRUST

Navigating the uncertainties of life can be challenging both for you and your loved ones, but securing the future of your loved ones need not be. With a Lifetime Trust you can enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that your assets have been safeguarded and will benefit your chosen loved ones exactly as you intend.

Many still believe that Lifetime Trusts are only for the wealthy, but this is no longer the case with ordinary folk now owning their homes and looking to protect their assets. Westminster Law has made Lifetime Trusts an affordable and practical solution and has made it possible for anyone to secure their family’s future with the same protection and foresight that the wealthy have enjoyed for centuries.

Why choose a Lifetime Trust?

• Avoid the cost and delays of probate: Grant immediate access on your death to some or all of your assets held in trust without the need for probate.

• Control and protection: Claim full control over your assets and shield your family’s inheritance from divorce, creditors, and other predatory challenges.

• Ensure future care of your beneficiaries: Guarantee that the trust capital can assist your loved ones for generations; for example, for education, health care, and first homes.

• Retain more of your wealth: Strategically reduce or even eliminate potential inheritance tax liabilities for yourself and future generations.

Many believe setting up a trust means losing control; however, the reality is quite the opposite. With the right planning, a Lifetime Trust allows you to maintain full control over your assets both during your lifetime and after death. A Lifetime Trust ensures that your wishes regarding your assets are meticulously realised with precision and care.

By setting up a Lifetime Trust you can preserve your legacy, ensuring your intentions are fulfilled not just for the present, but also for future generations.

Westminster Law assesses the circumstances of couples and individuals and arranges the Trust that will provide the best protection for them, their loved ones and their assets.

Westminster Law are specialists in organising this.

Leading the way in providing an AFFORDABLE PROFESSIONAL service

People are often concerned at the cost of getting a solicitor involved in their case and think that by doing so they will complicate matters.

It is important to take legal advice at an early stage after you separate from your partner. Despite what some people think, a good family lawyer will not try to turn an amicable split into an acrimonious one. Being well informed of your rights, responsibilities and the likely outcomes gives you the best information to help keep things from turning sour.

It is best to take advice before entering into negotiations with your ex-partner. You may find you agree something that you’re happy with at the time, but if circumstances change you might not feel as happy later. A lawyer will help you consider the implications of different scenarios and may also suggest options you haven’t thought of, for example trying to resolve your difficulties via mediation.

It can be very difficult to maintain a good relationship with an ex-partner if you are trying to backtrack from an agreement

that you reached without legal advice. It is much better to know where you stand before you start those negotiations.

Lawyers do not just help couples who are unable to reach an agreement. Sometimes clients do agree on the way forward, and they simply want lawyers to formalise that agreement or assist them with making an application for a clean break order – a binding order preventing either party from coming back for more money later on.

It is important to remember that simply reaching an agreement about what will happen does not mean that you are protected in the future from a claim if your ex-partner changes their mind. However, if a lawyer draws up this agreement, you will have the best possible protection against a future claim.

MADELINE RAND

GARDEN & NATURE

CEFN CRIBWR GARDENING CLUB

“In November the earth is growing quiet, it’s making it’s bed, a winter bed for flowers and small creatures, and much life can hide under it’s blankets” (Cynthia Ryland). Nice thought, everything tucked up cosy!

If you are considering planting new bare root roses where old ones were, beware, roses planted in soil that has grown roses for years are prone to “rose sickness” where the new plants lack the thin delicate feeder roots they need and will not flourish If you really want them in the same place dig out as much soil from the spot as possible and replace it with earth from another part of the garden.

Plant up pots with violas and pansies for a bit of colour through the dark and gloomy weather. Violas are so sweet with cutie pie faces! Pansies have bigger flower heads but violas win heads down for tolerance of cold temperatures and you don’t have to deadhead them! The name viola comes from the Latin name for violet after the Greek myth of Io who ate violets as food after Zeus turned her into a white heifer because he fancied her and had to hide her from his wife!

Chris Early

PORTHCAWL FLORAL NEWS

Festive preparations have already started at our flower-arranging club. Our major annual event is highly anticipated when we will be entertained by the national demonstrator Elizabeth Gordon. Her theme is “in the chic mid winter” so we can expect some special Christmas arrangements. All are welcome to attend at the Hi tide on Wednesday 20th November at 7.30. Tickets are £10 and can be bought on entry. There will be a raffle and a chance to win one of the floral displays. It should be a wonderful evening. We also have 2 practice sessions in November and will be making a Christmas arrangement on November 27th entitled “Deck the Halls”. Our Christmas lunch in the Atlantic hotel on December 11th rounds off our meetings until we start back in January with an

Afternoon tea on January 8th.

We have been delighted to welcome some new members and hope more will be tempted to try a new hobby this year.  Members and beginners can enrol at any of our meetings and are welcome to attend for one free taster session. We hold all our meetings at Awel y Mor Centre on alternate Wednesdays between 1.45 and 3.45.

For more information please consult our Facebook page or ring Alison on 07581 048448.

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS IN THE SEASIDE NEWS

LALESTON GARDENING CLUB

November is now upon us, not a month for Gardner’s really, if weather permits tidying the garden is all that can really be done, sweeping up leaves which make a good leaf mould if stored in black plastic bags.  Make sure your roses are cut back to a reasonable height to avoid wind rock.  Relax as the gardening year winds down.

The Gardening Club lecture year commenced in October with a lecture by Rhiannon Clarke a local cut flower grower & florist.  We also held an Indian Curry night, which was much enjoyed.

On the 11th November we will hold our annual quiz night and social evening for members to enjoy.  Our Annual Christmas Fayre will take place on Saturday, 9th November.  10am to approx 12noon.  Lots of craft, cards, cakes, preserves and Christmas goodies with a bumper raffle too.

Susan Ford

ARTS

PORTHCAWL MALE CHOIR

This month we enjoyed performing at the towns’ annual Elvis festival. The choir was extremely well received by an enthusiastic crowd at the Hi Tide - many compliments from the audience and even some tears during some of the songs (hopefully for the right reasons!). The festival only seems to get bigger every year and the organisation is fantastic. Well done to Dave Jones and all the team at the Hi Tide.

The choir is now commencing the winter season and dusting off the Carols. The calendar is looking extremely busy. Our main carol service this year will be at All Saints church on the 7th December at 7pm, we’re hoping to get some special guests to join us. We’ll soon publish the dates and venues of the other events where you can come and join us for some festive singing.

By the time you read this, we will have performed at the Porthcawl Civic Service in All Saints Church, Porthcawl. It was a privilege to be invited to sing by town mayor Jeff Perren. Don’t forget all you men out there; we’re always looking for new singers. Why don’t you give it a try? contact@ pothcawlmalechoir.co.uk

Or Ian Williams: 07927 219544.

A FILM MAKER’S POINT OF VIEW

In the heyday of the British film industry, there were dozens of studios turning out hundreds of films a year, and many of these studios, particularly those that specialised in making “B” pictures, were very small. One such studio was situated in the middle of Welwyn Garden City in Hertfordshire and in 1941 it produced a film called “Tower of Terror” directed by Lawrence Huntington, concerning a wartime lighthouse supposedly

on the northwest coast of Germany. Now largely forgotten, it is interesting because several scenes were shot at Porthcawl breakwater, showing the actor Wilfred Lawson in a small motor boat, playing the part of a mad lighthouse keeper, and the lighthouse exteriors were shot on Flat Holm island.

The film was given a rather dire review at the time of its release, but I tracked down a DVD copy and it provides some good, nostalgic entertainment – Wilfred Lawson gives a menacing performance as the truculent keeper harbouring a dark secret, and the American actress Movita, playing a young woman on the run, and Michael Rennie as a British spy, provide the story with its romantic interest. The highlight is undoubtedly the blowing up of the lighthouse at the end – using a model, of course.

Anthony Hontoir, Downwood Films

07510 934299

Photo: Anthony Hontoir

STAG’S WORLD OF ROCK

If you missed out on Oasis tickets for their Principality Stadium shows in Cardiff, don’t worry. Wales’s favourite sons, The Stereophonics, are there next year on Saturday July 12th, with tickets on sale now. Also, in 2025, Bridgend’s metal merchants, Bullet For My Valentine, play two nights at the Utilita Arena, Cardiff, on 26th and 27th January. Back to this year, and closer to home, Planet Rockstock kicks off on Thursday 28th November for four days at Trecco Bay. Rock legends Uriah Heep, who top the bill, will be there on the Sunday night. It will be their last-ever Welsh gig. They have been a big influence on my career and are top guys, so I wish them well on their farewell world tour.

Well, when you read this, my tree will be up! Porthcawl’s Xmas festivities start with their Christmas Victorian Light switch-on, which takes place in John Street on Saturday 30th November at 11.00am with full entertainment. Father Christmas will turn on the lights at the bandstand at 4.45pm, and on the following Saturday, 7th December at 11.00am there’s a Santa Music Festival. Fab, I’ll see you all there for a selfie.

Stag Marks

07549 728356

Photo: Stag with Bernie (left) and Mick from Uriah Heep

KENFIG HILL MVC

Our annual concert performance this year was held in Margam Abbey on October 19th, and what a fantastic evening we had. On the night, we were joined by Baritone Josef Gray and pupils from Cynffig Comprehensive School, Katryn Treharne and Kian Hamer-Davies. They wowed the audience with their vocal talents. It was a remarkable evening filled with hwyl and passion.

Moving on to another event that we are greatly anticipating. Kenfig Hill and District Male Voice Choir is set to bring their powerful harmonies to the Principality Stadium for the highly anticipated Wales v South Africa autumn series game on November 23rd. Known for their rich tradition of choral music, the choir’s performance is sure to uplift the spirits of fans and create an atmosphere like no other at the event. Kick-off is at 5.40pm.

In December, we have two events to look forward to. The annual Christmas Concert in Llandaff Cathedral for the South Wales Emergency Services on the 5th, and our combined Schools Christmas concert in Pisgah Chapel, which was such a hit last year, is on the 16th.

For further information, please contact: Paul Butterworth, Vice Chairman Paulb.khdmvc@gmail.com

Deadline date for the December issue is: FRIDAY 15TH NOVEMBER

SOUNDS FAMILIAR

Porthcawl choir, Sounds Familiar, are celebrating 25years of singing with their final concert of the year entitled ‘Festive Christmas’ it will be a concert that will surely put you in the Christmas mood.

Musical Director, Nick Wayland-Evans and accompanist Stewart Roberts have prepared a programme that includes songs from shows and films that have become part of our Christmas entertainment as well as some traditional carols and others less familiar. They will be joined by Josef Gray who has built up a considerable following with people who appreciate his fine baritone voice, and Lefi-Jo Hughes a member of Only Boys

Aloud and LARS (Loud Applause Rising Stars), an organisation that supports and encourages talented young singers and musicians in South Wales. Also performing will be Emlyn Roberts, who is still at school and a talented brass player and cellist - he will be playing the trumpet.

The concert is on Friday 29th November at 7.30pm at Cornelly Community Centre, and as the last concert was a sell-out, you may need to get your tickets early! Tickets will be available from choir members and for further information please contact our Secretary Pet Mathias on 01656 772451

Laurence Chilcott

PORTHCAWL ART SOCIETY NEWS

Congratulations to our winners and well done to all our members on creating a wonderful array of paintings to make an excellent exhibition this Autumn. Our judge was the amazing Jannet Poultney-Maddy and she had a hard job to select the winners, from left to right Tricia Simon for Sker House (third), Lynn Rickets sheep scene (most original), Jan Hoskin’ Fox (second) and Clive Callen’s beach scene (first). Highly commended and commended awards were also awarded to Jeff Barnes, Wendy Davies-Williams, Sian Webb, Lydia Nicholson, Pat Jones and Mike Burt. The public vote for winner of our ‘music’ competition was Steve Martin, with a fond memory of bands at the Manor Suite. Special congratulations to two members who joined us fairly recently - Mike and Steve. Also, congratulations to one of our most long-standing members Pat.

In November we will be having a fun competition, as members are busy creating paintings to represent song titles. Come along and play ‘guess the song’. The gallery is open 11-3pm Wed, Thur, Fri, Sat and other days when volunteers are available. It’s free to come in and admire the talent of all our local artists and maybe even find a Christmas gift, card or craft item.

Members meet in our weekly workshops, to paint and chat, on Wednesdays 1-3pm and 7-9pm, upstairs in the Old Police Station, above the museum in John Street. Please get in touch, or drop in, to find out more about joining us.

Tricia Simon, Secretary www.porthcawlart.co.uk Facebook/PorthcawlArt

WHAT’S ON

PORTHCAWL U3A

Provides a huge range of daytime activities for people no longer in full-time employment. It is a great way to meet people and engage in any of the over 40 fun, physical, educational, creative or thoughtprovoking activities. All of which are available free to members. Annual membership is £42. Website: porthcawlu3a.org.uk; phone: 07824 133777; email: info@porthcawlu3a.org.uk

PORTHCAWL LADIES BOWLS CLUB

Ladies have you thought of giving bowls a try? No experience necessary. We are a small friendly club at Griffin park offering free individual taster sessions, followed by free membership for a year. For more information please contact Sue Bowen 07969 813540.

PRINCE OF WALES BOWLING CLUB

We are currently recruiting experience and novice bowlers. The club is located in Penylan Avenue, Porthcawl with excellent bowling and social facilities. Please contact our Club Secretary if you are interested in joining. Elwyn Williams (Club Secretary) 01656 788345.

MONDAY

A TASTE OF YOGA, KENFIG 10.30-12pm & 6.30-8pm @ Kenfig Nature Reserve. Cost: Four Sessions £32. To book contact Angela 07980 936198 or Email: angelarock11@ hotmail.com

KENFIG HILL & DISTRICT MALE VOICE CHOIR

New members can join us at rehearsals on Monday and Thursday evenings from 7-9pm at The Choral Suite, Greenacres Motel, 111 Heol Fach, North Cornelly, CF33 4LH. Find us on Facebook, or https:// www.kenfighillmalechoir.wales Or contact the secretary Tony Ulberini at tonyulberini@gmail.com Tel: 07866 742452 Or Terry Thomas, Chairman kenfighillmvc@gmail.com. Tel: 07577 406605.

ROTARY PORTHCAWL

Meets Mondays @ 1pm, The High Tide, Mackworth Road, Porthcawl, CF36 5BT. New members always welcomed. Further information contact Andrew Singer on Telephone: 01656 785628 Mobile:07817 095992. Email: andrewbsinger@icloud.com Website: https://www.rotary-ribi.org/clubs/ homepage.php?ClubID=953

TUESDAY

INNER WHEEL PORTHCAWL

First Tuesday of the month, except August, @ 1pm in the Hi-Tide, Mackworth Road, Porthcawl, CF36 5BT. New members are always welcomed. Further information contact Liz Jones on 07805 415718.

PORTHCAWL COMMUNITY CHORUS

The benefits of singing together are enormous – clear lungs, positive outlook, friendly cooperation – so why not come along and ‘sing for joy’ each Tuesday afternoon, 1.30-3pm, at Gilgal Baptist Church Hall. You can be assured of a friendly welcome. No auditions required and no need to read music. A wide variety of songs are sung. Just turn up, or contact Maggie Jemmett on 07932 793 355 or Maggie.jemmett@live.co.uk

PORTHCAWL LIONS

Meet at Hi-tide 1st and 3rd Tuesday’s of the month, 7.30pm. See website: www.porthcawllions.org.uk Or call: 01656 784939.

PORTHCAWL MALE CHOIR

New members welcome. Rehearsals Tuesday & Friday evening 7-9 pm at Lady Of The Sea Catholic Church, New Road, Porthcawl. Further details contact either Choir Secretary, Noel Williams at (noel. williams185@btinternet.com) 07902 333559 or Public Relations Officer, Ian Williams (ianwilliams54@sky. com) 07927 219544. Check out our website and Facebook page for further details.

RISING STARS

A free after-school children’s choir for ages 8-11. Each session will include singing of course but also: drama improvisation; movement to music; and various rhythm and vocal reading skills using instruments and hand signs.

Meets every Tuesday, except school holidays, from 17th September, 4-5pm, with arrival from 3.45 at Gilgal Baptist Church Hall. Further information, please contact Maggie Jemmett on 07932 793 355 or email Maggie.jemmett@live.co.uk

SOUNDS FAMILIAR

Simply easy to join us! We sing a huge variety of music in English and Welsh! We are seeking men to fill our spaces in our BASS and TENOR sections. 7pm to 9pm,upstairs in The United Services Club, on Station Hill in Porthcawl. Contact choir secretary Pet Mathias on 01656 772451.

WEDNESDAY

FUN & FRIENDLY NEW GROUP

Come find your voice at FREE singing group Wednesdays 11 -1pm in Awely-Mor Community Centre. You don’t need any experience and it’s loads of fun. To book contact helo@taniocymru.com 01656 729246. Funded by the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund, in partnership with Bridgend County Borough Council and Awen Cultural Trust.

BRIDGEND SOROPTOMISTS

We meet at Heronston Hotel 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month 7pm. See website sigbi.org/ bridgend-and-district Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ BridgendSoroptimists. New members welcome.

COR BRO OGWR, BRIDGEND

A mixed choir based in Tabernacle Church, Derwen Road, Bridgend CF31 1TH. Rehearsals are 7-9pm. No audition required. www.corbroogwr.com Contact: 07972 245089.

NEWTON WI

We meet on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 7pm. Venue: Scouts Hall, Woodland Avenue, Porthcawl. Visitors welcome.

PORTHCAWL ART SOCIETY

Weekly workshops at 1pm and 7pm. New members welcome. Art Gallery open most days 11-3pm. Above the museum, Old Police Station, John Street. www.porthcawlart.co.uk

PORTHCAWL FLORAL ARRANGEMENT SOCIETY

Fancy creating exciting floral displays? Join our friendly group at Awel Y More Centre, Hutchwns Terrace, Porthcawl, CF365TN. We meet on 2nd /4th Wednesdays at from 1.30 to 3.30. Beginners and visitors welcome. We have tuition, demonstrations and social events. See our Facebook page or call Alison on 07581 048448.

PORTHCAWL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY RUN BY GARDENERS FOR GARDENERS.

The garden shop in Heol-y-Goedwig re-opens on Saturday 7th Sept, 9.00am to midday, then every Saturday and Wednesday. Winter onion sets, garlic, broad bean seeds, all garden needs including ground covers, fertilizers, pest control sprays available. All welcome to visit, advice freely given.

PORTHCAWL STROKE CLUB

Meeting at the Masonic Home 2-4pm. Seeking volunteers who are CRB checked, or are prepared to have one. Contact Chairman Mr Keith Duggan & Mrs Mary Duggan on (01656) 773376 or 07484 250988.

SLIMMING WORLD, PORTHCAWL

Scout Hall, Woodland Avenue, Porthcawl, CF36 5HW 9.30am. Contact Millie - 07765 040006.

THURSDAY

BRIDGEND MALE CHOIR

Do you enjoy singing? The Choir Practice, 7.30 – 9.30pm at Oldcastle Primary School, South Street, Bridgend every Thursday. Why not come, have a listen and check us out. New members and visitors very welcome. Contact Mike Johnson, 07938949194 or www.bridgendmalechoir.co.uk. Motto - Friendship through Music.

GILGAL COMMUNITY HUB

Park Avenue church cafe, Thursday term times, 2pm until 4pm. Everyone welcome for refreshments and friendship or knitting to help different charities. Contact Jacqui on 07773 342426.

PORTHCAWL GLEE CLUB

Our informal, relaxed and upbeat modern social singing group welcomes you to raise the roof and lift the spirit at Newton institute 6.30pm for £5 (first session free) Sarah.milligan@gwella.org.uk

PYLE & PORTHCAWL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

Meetings at St Clare’s School, Newton, Porthcawl CF36 5NY. Thursdays at 7.15pm. Sept. to May inc. We’re a very friendly camera club with a mix of male & female members and welcome new members of all ages and skill levels. www.pyle-and-porthcawlphotographic-society.co.uk

SKER WI

We meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 7pm in St David’s Church Hall, Porthcawl. Visitors are most welcome.

SLIMMING WORLD, KENFIG HILL

Talbot Community Centre, Kenfig Hill 7.30am, 9.30am and 5.30pm. Contact Millie: 07765 040006.

FRIDAY

SLIMMING WORLD, PORTHCAWL

Scout Hall, Woodland Avenue, Porthcawl, CF36 5HW 9.30am. Contact Millie - 07765 040006.

SATURDAY

LALESTON GARDENING CLUB

Varied activities throughout the week. Located at Cliff Cottage, Laleston, next to the Parish Church. Open every Saturday 10am-12noon. Please call in. Visit our website: www.lalestongardenclub.co.uk Or our Facebook page.

PORTHCAWL VETERANS HUB

At the Bowls Pavillion, Griffin Park, Porthcawl. 10am - 12 midday. All veterans, serving military and families welcome. We offer support, guidance, chat in a relaxed atmosphere. Refreshments provided.

PYLE & KENFIG HILL VETERANS ASSOCIATION

Royal British Legion Pyle Club, 10:00hrs-12:00hrs. Serving personnel, veterans and their families. Support, networking and advice available from peers. Refreshments availablefood and beverages.

SUNDAY

PORTHCAWL COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA

Rehearse every Sunday, 6-8pm in Awel Y Mor centre, Hutchwns Terrace, Porthcawl CF36 5TN. Visit: www.porthcawlorchestra.co.uk to find out more.

Full Templating & Fitting Service

Taylor-made to any Size & Shape Toughened against heat & impact

Beautiful & Bespoke to transform your kitchen. Easy to clean, no grout, just sheer glass.

THE PRINCESS ROYAL THEATRE

WHAT’S ON

13th-21st November

NEW FABRIC REMNANTS & HABERDASHERY FUNDRAISING SALE

Above Sussed, in Porthcawl.

We are fundraising for solar lighting units for Ugandan families at Mt Elgon, Agroforestry Community Co-operatives growing Jenipher’s Coffi. This fairly-traded coffee is imported into Bridgend, sold in SUSSED and served in One/Un, Coffee Bar Newton, Porthcawl.

Can you help the coffee farmers go solar, saving pollution and the environment? Fabrics etc donations welcome in advance.

Our guests and volunteers recently met coffee producer, Jenipher, at our Fairtrade Coffee Evening. She told us about the difficulties of coffee growing, made more so because of climate change, but also about the polluting kerosene lights that are used to light their homes. Though toxic for families and their children – she said they have no choice.

Jenipher started a pilot project with 5 farmers to trial the solar lights. They cost £20 and a total of 600 have been successfully donated so far. However, there are another 3000 farmers who still use kerosene and have no access to electricity.  Donations of new fabrics etc welcome in advance, please drop off in SUSSED. Sale starts 13th November 10.00am.

Website cash donations https://square.link/u/aIeHwALo Contacts: Margaret or Peter 01656 783962

Saturday 23rd November

THE MID GLAMORGAN SAVOYARDS

AUTUMN CONCERT

The autumn programme of The Mid Glamorgan Savoyards will this year be held in All Saints Church, Porthcawl, at 7pm, due to the closure of the Pavilion for repairs.

The concert will consist of music from the theatre including a complete performance of Gilbert and Sullivan’s ‘Trial by Jury’ - a one act courtroom farce where a biased jury and an unethical judge preside over a very serious crime; a lady suing her exlover for breaking off their engagement.

You will also be hearing favourite extracts from ‘The Pirates of Penzance’, ‘The Yeomen of the Guard’, ‘The Bartered Bride’ and ‘The Gondoliers’. Something for everyone to enjoy! A full

orchestra will accompany all this and the proceeds will go to Ty Hafan, the children’s hospice in Penarth.

Tickets £15 each may be obtained from tel. 01656 857610, members of the company and at the door.

Saturday 23rd November

XMAS FAYRE @ NEWTON INSTITUTE

Starts at 2pm. There will be something for everyone with a raffle, cake stall, tombola, gift stall, craft stall & £ parcels. Admission 50p includes tea/ coffee.

For any other enquiries ring Jill George on 01656 771032 .

Friday 6th December

THE BROADWAY CHORUS CHRISTMAS

CONCERT

Held at All Saints Church, Porthcawl, starting at 7.30pm. Come along and listen to some well known traditional carols plus a variety of other Christmas songs including for the youngsters a medley from ‘The Muppet Christmas Carol’ and the ever popular ‘Frozen’, together with Christmas favourites by John Rutter - all chosen by our conductor Liz York. Our guest soloists will be Catherine Brown and Porthcawl flautist Catherine Mayor, who will also accompany the choir in some of the musical items.

The proceeds of this charity event will go to the well-deserved Cystic Fibrosis Trust, so please try to support us for this good cause.

Tickets £10 adults and £6.00 for children available at the door or from any member of the choir.

19th Oct Bryncethin RFC (H)

26th Oct Loughor RFC (H) Cup

2nd

Dan Biggar

SEA & SPORT

PORTHCAWL CHRISTMAS MORNING SWIM

This year sees the 59th Christmas Morning Swim in Porthcawl. Our headline charity this year is Alzheimer’s Society Cymru. Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer with one in three people now expected to develop the disease in their lifetime. Alzheimer’s Society Cymru support people in Wales through some of the hardest and most frightening times.  Many other local charities will also benefit from the event. On Christmas Day the swimmers will enter the water at the

usual time of 11.45am so please meet at the beach from 10.45am.

This year’s theme is ‘The Deep Blue Sea’ so let your imaginations run wild - we love seeing all your costumes on the day! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the details. Or visit our website christmasswim.org

See you on the beach!

Deadline date for the December issue is: FRIDAY 15TH NOVEMBER

OCTOBER SURF REPORT

Trying to be a surfer in Porthcawl throughout most of 2024 has been a trying endeavour at the best of times, a task most have completed with all the efficacy of punching smoke. So the fact that the first week of October delivered a complete and uninterrupted run of swell meant that the local surf community was more than excited to finally get their fill. The beginning of the week was the biggest, although the combination of big tides and dreaded southerly winds (hawk tuah) stopped it from falling into the ‘all time’ category. Gary Lewis, George Schofield, myself, and two other fine gentleman joined a student from Newquay (an assumption based on the Sydney accent - “waves are great heeeeey”), at a local beach which isn’t Rest or Coney, for possibly the best of the early week; a solid 3ft with great shape and fairly light winds. The end of the week saw a very long period swell arrive under cloudless skies and fantastic conditions. Whilst the wait between sets was longer than one would have liked, the swell certainly provided the best surf seen on our shores for some time, even drawing a contingent from Swansea to visit.

Speaking of the noisy neighbours; our cousins over the bay at Langland Boardriders (hawk tuah) held the iconic Toxic Trophy in conjunction with Surfers Against Sewage a few weekends ago, and whilst it followed the more informal tag team approach to competition, it attracted a crowd of some of the countries best surfers and a great day (and probably messier evening) was enjoyed by all who attended, whilst raising money for a worthy cause in the process.

Local longboarder and romantic hipster Blake Jones travelled

up north to Tyneside to compete in the one and only stop on the British Longboard Union tour this year. Blake surfed well, and has been surfing fantastically recently, but got handed an early bath in the quarter finals by local standout Louis-Thomas Hudson leaving another Welshman, Channel Coast Surf Club’s (hawk tuah) Elliot Dudley to take the win and his 90th British Longboard title in the process.

With a bit of luck Welsh Coast Surf Club should be running our club championship in November, something vital in providing a platform for our surfers to go on and achieve results on the national stage, something Porthcawl has been struggling with over the last decade or so, whilst also providing an entry path to compete for the club at next years Wilkinson Sword event which will hopefully be our year to finally wrestle the trophy back. So keep your eyes on the club socials for news on dates and get involved.

The surf club is also holding it’s legendary Surfers Ball fancy dress party on Friday 29th November at the Hi Tide, which will no doubt live up to it’s reputation as one of Porthcawl’s best nights out. A fantastic line up of local bands and DJs will provide the entertainment and as always, prizes will be given for best in class fancy dress. Tickets will be available shortly from either the club or the Hi Tide so keep an eye out for news regarding their release.

See you in the water!

Martin John

PORTHCAWL NCI REPORT

The summer season is now well and truly behind us and so the watches are not only quieter but getting shorter due to the clocks going back and the nights drawing in. The training and mentor team are concentrating on passing on their knowledge and experience to the new recruits. The current batch of trainees is finishing off the last of the classroom theory sessions and will be rostered for watches with a mentor and additional watchkeeper from the beginning of November. With the summer season well and truly over, the number of people on the beaches and in the water has reduced significantly. This means however, the Watchkeepers still need to maintain the same level of observation and concentration. This can be harder than during busy summer watches, as it is easy to lose focus when there is not much activity. As a station, we are constantly having to raise funds to make sure the service we offer continues to the professional level we expect. It costs many thousands of pounds to keep the station operational for a year and all costs are met solely through fundraising. If you are passing the station we would appreciate a donation in the blue box that is put out at the bottom of the tower each day.

Laurence Bater Media Officer, Porthcawl NCI

FOR YOUR SPORTS CLUB? SEND US AN ARTICLE TO PUBLISH ON THESE PAGES. 200 WORD LIMIT.

High Tide: Larger Number (m)

Low Tide: Lower Number (m)

David Ryan Roofing

All Roofs Repaired Velux Skylight fitted Slating & Tiling repairs

Rubber Flat Roofs renewed Chimneys re-pointed. Chimney pots

Lead valley & Flashing repairs uPVC Fascias & Guttering