SEASIDE NEWS: April 2023 issue

YOUR ARTICLES, VIEWS, NEWS & REPORTS

View the magazine online at: www.seasidenews.co.uk or via ISSUU

WHERE WE DELIVER

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And now available to pick up from selected outlets in the following towns: Broadlands, Whiterock, Bryntirion, Cefn Glas, Litchard, Coity, Brackla, Ewenny, St Brides Major, Southerndown & Ogmore by Sea.

PICK UP A COPY

Available to pick up from the following places:

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Seaside News® is published by Seaside Publications Ltd. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we can accept no liability whatsoever for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions, or for any matter in any way arising out of the publication of the magazine or any of the website content. The views expressed in the Seaside News® and on the website are not necessarily the views of the publisher. No part of the magazine or website may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Any breach of copyright will be taken extremely seriously. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any article, advert or website listing without reason. Copyright © Seaside News® 1998-2023 VAT Registration No: 879 7077 54 | Seaside Publications Ltd is registered in Wales, company number 09413904.

PUZZLES

Sudoku

www.sudokukingdom.com

Fill each cell of the grid so that each row, each column, and each 3 x 3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9 exactly once. No guessing is required – only simple logic is needed.

Word Search

Hint: Words can be found horizontally, vertically, diagonally and also backwards.

Find 19 words related to the Victorian Age: BONNET - FLAT CAP - CHIMNEYSWEEP - LACE - PRIVY - TRAMS - PRINCEALBERT FACTORIES - HOPSCOTCH - OVERLOOKER - COALMINES - INVENTORS - SPINNINGTOP TRAINS - TELEPHONE - DRILL - SLATE - CANE - CHALK

BOOKS

BOOK OF THE MONTH: THE LAST HIGHWAY BY R. J. ELLORY

Estranged after a devastating betrayal, brothers Victor and Frank Landis - sheriffs of neighbouring counties - hadn’t spoken for years. In truth, Victor didn’t care if Frank was alive or dead. Until the day somebody killed him.

Crossing county lines in search of answers, Victor is soon on the trail of a sinister conspiracy that takes him deep into the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. From the poorest communities to the most powerful and corrupt organisations, he soon becomes ensnared in a dangerous web of drugs, trafficking and murder.

For Victor, finding the truth will mean uncovering dark secrets he’d rather have left buried, and risking everything to protect the family his brother left behind.

KATE BLADON

Facebook: PorthcawlLibrary | PyleLibrary

Porthcawl Library Tel: 01656 754845 | 01656 754850

Email: porthcawl.library@awen-wales.com pyle.library@awen-wales.com

NEW BOOKS AT PORTHCAWL LIBRARY

FICTION

THE INSTITUTION

Helen Fields

23RD MIDNIGHT

James Patterson

THE MOTHER

T. M. Logan

WORTHY OPPONENTS

Danielle Steel

THE SHADOWS OF LONDON

Andrew Taylor

THE LETTER

Josephine Cox

ONE ENCHANTED EVENING

Katie Fforde

THE KIND WORTH SAVING

Peter Swanson

THE CLOSE

Jane Casey

BURNER

Mark Greaney

THE DEAD OF WINTER

Stuart MacBride

A LESSON LEARNED

Rosie Goodwin

THE LAST KINGDOM

Steve Berry

STORM WATCH

C. J. Box

THE LAST ORPHAN

Greg Hurwitz

NON FICTION

SARN HELEN: A JOURNEY THROUGH WALES, PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

Tom Bullough

THE ULTIMATE AIR FRYER COOKBOOK

Clare Andrew

WHAT LIES BENEATH: MY LIFE AS A FORENSIC SEARCH AND RESCUE EXPERT

Peter Faulding

LIFE IN THE BALANCE: A DOCTOR’S STORIES OF INTENSIVE CARE

Jim Down

A SHORT HISTORY OF THE WORLD IN 50 LIES

Natasha Tidd

CONEY BEACH SUNSET

DUCKS ‘N DAFFS

A LOT TO SAY FOR HIMSELF

SPRING DAY AT KENFIG

REFLECTION

WEIRD SKY AT NIGHT

Neil Baker, Porthcawl

Pat Lathey, Penyfai

John Hughes, Porthcawl

Anthony Callaghan, Porthcawl

Bethan Humphries, North Cornelly

Christian Thomas, Porthcawl

SPRINGTIME IN PORTHCAWL

RIVER KENFIG BRIDGE

WHERE’S BATMAN?!

SKER BEACH

Alan Thomas, Bridgend

Sandra Beer, Porthcawl

Alison Payn, Porthcawl

Leanne Jenkins, North Cornelly

Pat Thomas, Porthcawl

ARTS

PORTHCAWL MALE CHOIR

PYLE & PORTHCAWL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

We recently held our annual Malcolm Nugent Portfolio Competition, expertly judged by Trevor James.

It was a very close result with 3 members tied in first place with 76 points each.

The winner was decided by the number of 20s each member had scored and David Jones was the victor having scored 2 20s. Congratulations David.

We’re a friendly camera club with a mix of male and female members and welcome new members of all ages and skill levels. It’s all very informal so if you have an interest in photography why not come along and join us.

We meet at St Clare’s School, Newton, CF36 5NR on Thursday evenings at 7pm.

www.pyle-and-porthcawl-photographic-society.co.uk

We held a fantastic concert on Saturday 11th March with a touring choir from Hertfordshire, ‘Amici Cantate’. Not only did they sing Calon Lan for our joint finale, but they also sang Ar Hyd Y Nos. Wonderful that they should have taken the time to embrace Welsh culture. Their mixture of traditional and folk music with piano and vocal solos kept the enthusiastic audience entertained. Our first public performance of Yma O Hyd was well received and a special thanks to Laura Deenik who stood in at last minute as accompanist. Her performance of the solo in Finlandia was exceptional. If the fantastic music wasn’t enough, the choir was so grateful to be presented with a Defibrillator by local doctors Rupert and Sarah Thurston. Rupert took part in the Cardiff half marathon to raise the funds and with the assistance of local builder James Lott supplied this essential piece of equipment to the choir. The defibrillator will be housed at Arlington Road Church and will be available for the choristers and any other groups using the church. Rupert and Sarah are long time friends of the choir, since we sang at their wedding 10 years ago. A huge thanks to you all. We’re performing at both the Newton Fest and Fayre this year so pop along and see us. contact@pothcawlmalechoir.co.uk

Ian Williams 07927 219544

AN UPLIFTING SPRING CONCERT

On Saturday, 22nd April at All Saints’ Church, Porthcawl, Côr Bro Ogwr will perform a rich and varied programme of music under the baton of the choir’s musical director, Ben Pinnow. The centerpiece of the concert will be Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem. Completed in1900, it is the best known of Fauré’s larger works with a focus is on eternal rest and consolation: serenity over drama.

The choir will also perform a piece by the French composer, Lili Boulanger, Sous Bois, who worked with Fauré in Paris, but sadly died at 24 from ill health. There will be pieces by Brahms, Mansel Thomas and Handel’s rousing Zadok the Priest in honour of the coronation in May. It should be an uplifting concert!

Côr Bro Ogwr is supported by grants from Tŷ Cerdd using National Lottery money from Arts Council Wales and the Welsh Government.

The concert is at All Saints’ Church, Porthcawl, on Saturday, 22nd April at 7.00 pm. Tickets are £10 at the door, from choristers, or on 01656 653326. www.cor-bro-ogwr.com

SOMETHING TO CROW ABOUT

There is only one place to start the column and it’s the continued success of Bridgend’s Those Damn Crows. They have recently completed a sell-out British tour that climaxed at the new 3,000-seat Swansea Arena. I cannot review their new great album “Inhale/ Exhale” track by track due to lack of column space, but it’s a classic, full of Crow anthems we’ve grown to love. It was fab to catch up with drummer Ronnie Huxford for a pint recently and hopefully will see the boys soon. In the meantime, get a copy of the album as it’s hit the following charts, as follows: No 3 UK top 40 albums; No 1 Independent Album; No 1 Rock Metal Album; No 3 UK Physical Album; No 3 Vinyl Album and the list goes on. I’ll keep you up to speed with the band’s progress. Last and certainly not least, the Newton Music Festival is back on Bank Holiday weekend Saturday, August 26th, at Newton Green. Apart from performing, I’ve been involved in setting up festivals and the work is immense so it’s fantastic news that Steve Maitland Thomas and the gang are getting stuck in to bring us music fans a great day out.

Stag Marks

Tel: 07549 728356

Photo: Ronnie Huxford (Those Damn Crows) and Stag

PORTHCAWL ART SOCIETY

A FILM MAKER’S POINT OF VIEW

We are now open for 2023 after our Christmas celebrations and winter break. We are looking forward to warmer spring weather, with lots of inspiration for our paintings. We have been working hard creating Easter cards and paintings ready for our spring exhibition opening on 31st March. The competition theme is ‘black and white,’ visit the gallery to vote for the winner. We aim to be open most days 11-3pm so come along to enjoy our art (entry is free). If you are interested in joining us, drop in or come to member workshops on Wednesdays 1-3pm and 7-9pm. We are above the museum in John Street.

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

Animation has been a part of the cinema for as long as it has existed, in one form or another. Walt Disney perfected it with his creation of Mickey Mouse and friends. It used to be achieved using a stopmotion camera, which is effectively a standard movie camera, which can be operated frame by frame. For big screen productions, 24 frames were needed for every second of screen time, so a film lasting for one and a half hours would require 129,600 separate frames. Keep that number in mind when you think of all the work that goes in to making any animated film, whether it is a classic like “Snow White” or clay animation like Wallace & Gromit. In today’s world, the traditional movie camera has almost exclusively given way to digital origination (although Kodak Lab assures me that somebody somewhere in the world is still using film) and of course these days 2D and 3D animation is done with a computer, aided by lots of hi-tech sophistication, which the earliest pioneers of film-making would find hard to comprehend. Actually, they are not the only ones – so do I! I still believe in keeping things simple.

Anthony Hontoir

Downwood Films Tel: 07510 934299

Richard & Sarah Mustoe Independent Funeral Directors

Picture: Anthony Hontoir with traditional movie camera (Photo: Louise Jones)

PORTHCAWL REGENERATION: MORE INCLUSIVE, LESS EXCLUSIVE…

Dear Editor, There are many opportunities available to make Porthcawl more ‘inclusive’.

For example, ensure that the proposed Metrolink Station is sited as close to John Street, as possible, in order to support the High Street to compete with the arrival of Aldi. Secondly, permanently close the Esplanade Road between the new Cosey Corner development and The Grand Pavilion (as happens now during Elvis Week). Reduce the cost of this initiative by using some of the gigantic £18M grant to remove the road in front of The Grand Pavilion and massively increase the “WOW” factor of the new Pavilion building. Relocate the fairground and its supporting food and beverage units and make them seasonal attractions. In the summer it’s a fairground, in the winter the fairground rides disappear, and the area left becomes community space for a Christmas Market or other community initiatives.

As to the elephant in the room: The Buccaneer and The Cabin. If Porthcawl’s tourism strategy is to be based upon drinking alcohol, then roll out the barrel (or can). If not, what the hell have we been doing? If Porthcawl is to be more ‘inclusive’ and less ‘exclusive’, then for once, its tourism strategy needs to be based upon the needs of the tourist many AND NOT the needs of the privileged few.

David Norris, Porthcawl

SEA SHEPHERD UK PORTHCAWL BEACH CLEANS

Dear Editor,

So far this year we have removed 570kg of debris from Coney Beach. On Sunday 12th March we left the beach ecstatic… for the first time since we started on Coney we left the seaweed looking like…well…seaweed! We could only do this because we had so many volunteers helping us. Everyone concentrated on their part of the beach, and it was incredible. We even had 4 volunteers on Rhych point for the entire time to remove the debris from the fireworks last season. Another go on that, and it should all be gone…finally!

So, thank you so much to all who turned out. We had our amazing regulars and were joined by the Rhondda Scuba Divers Club, local young families and families from further afield, and of course our friends from South Wales Police. It’s no wonder we manage to remove so much debris. If you get a chance take a look at the photos with our beach reports at Sea Shepherd UK on Facebook. Next dates can also be found on FB and at the Pantri- Box in Porthcawl, or contact us at southwales@seashepherduk.org Elkz, Porthcawl

NEWTON BUOYANT BLUETITS CITIZENSHIP AWARD

Dear Editor, Newton Beach Came alive on 28th February, with many Bluetits in colourful Dryrobes  assembled to celebrate receiving the group Citizenship Award for 2023, from the Mayor of Bridgend County Borough Council, Councillor Martin Jones.

Our cold water swimming group started in March 2021 after 3 of us did a Virtual Christmas Swim and posted photos online. A friend put me in touch with The Bluetits Chill Swimmers based in Pembroke with swimming groups around the globe…. and we signed up! It was in the wake of COVID and a period of social exclusion, with unprecedented illnesses, bereavements and extremely traumatic times for all.

News of our small group spread like wildfire and we currently have over 1,600 members on our Facebook site, on which new members can sign up and we post swim times daily. Members swim throughout the year, in all seasons, in sun, rain, wind and snow!

The group has developed into an amazing , supportive, all inclusive group with many reported health benefits.

Diane Raybould, Porthcawl Admin Newton Buoyant Bluetits

SOBER

What is the purpose of consuming such filth?

Endlessly chasing the most glorious myth

A hopeless cycle with no options but one Unable to recall where this madness begun

“Is this it Lord, is this how my life shall end?”

With no will or ability to continue to pretend

Reality peaks in, this is your final warning

It’s not your time to set your loved ones in mourning

So mark these words as the start of my sobriety

With nothing left in me but hope and anxiety

Amidst all of this is damage is the battle with bipolar

So now I’m going to fight whilst you watch me get sober.

Tuesday Turner

Brackla, Bridgend

THE BIG MAN

I miss the Big Man, with his dog,  I miss his ever presence, His cheeky chuckle, sense of wit, The heart of Clevis Crescent.

I miss his kindness, miss his smile, His cheery optimism,  His willingness to pour a glass,  And to our woes a-listen.

Life can be so cruel, to leave this empty hole,

To take someone too early, to snatch a precious soul, But boy, he had a good life, filled with love.... and gin!

So every time I think of him I cannot help but grin.

‘The smiley man’, ‘The Happy man’, the Big Man of the street, It sure would take some beating to fill shoes of those feet.

He’d not want us to languish, but rather hold him dear,

And every now and then raise a glass of ratafia!

Cheers! To Tony.

Gemma Lewis, Porthcawl

A REST BAY GOLDEN SUNSET

A mesmerising scene, a sight to behold, A golden sunset, before darkness unfolds.

Emanating a luminous hue, a sky on fire, Captured in a moment, a feel good provider.

A mesmerising atmosphere, long shadows cast, Endearingly vibrant, Mother Nature unsurpassed.

On a swift-ebbing tide, surfers ride the waves,

A thrill-seeking paradise, much courage displayed.

A picturesque shoreline, arousing deep passion,

Wet golden sands, immersed in water refraction.

Whilst offshore silhouettes, sportingly adorn,

This magnificent sunset is a preludes to dawn.

With Rest Bay emblazoned, worries fade away, This scene of tranquility, there for all to survey.

Porthcawl’s leading light, a jewel in the crown,

Photography such as this, never fails to astound.

Arthur Cole, Pencoed

JOY RIDING

We may have knees that are creaking And a head that goes spinning around But today the Joy Riders are coming So no limitations are found Just wrap up warm now Ladies And make sure you hold tight when there’s bumps

Then all we need do is wave like the queen

With a hansom young cyclist to do all the work

Yes, this is joy-riding indeed Our youth might be renewed once in heaven but for now some spare parts must make do

So our Joy Riders take us on those paths once well walked Waking memories made long ago So three cheers for our hansom JoyRiders

Long may their strength endure

And long may we hear their cheery ‘Toot-toot, Clear the way, we are coming for you.’

Pauline Lewis, Porthcawl

SOLITUDE

Stillness of the night

Look what it creates

Dancing moonlight

On clouds like waves

Shiny reflections and dark silhouettes

Eyes just wonder over the gates

In the courtyard I am standing barefooted

Though it’s little cold so little gutted  Moon is bright shining and casting a spell

I called you a name but can’t spell  A melody that night plays

Memory of you that never fades

In the muteness of night, World is bathed in silver light

Without you can’t find peace and grace. Feeling so lonely in this chaotic space.

Thought of you enchants me from dusk to dawn

I am in middle of nowhere totally withdrawn

Like a never ending symphony plays  Wind blows and sings sweetly and sways. Dr. Nadeem Iqbal, Bridgend

SURE SIGNS OF SPRING

Where once a lonely crocus flowered, Vast purple crowns present. Last year’s solitary snowdrop, Yields swathes of white heads bent. Old Winter has loosened its icy grip,  Jack Frost’s bite has failed to sting. Chilled silence, replaced by birdsong As feathered friends return on the wing. Grey skies give way to clear blue, Green shoots pierce the ‘still cold’ earth Spring is on its way for sure, A time for regeneration and rebirth.

Catherine Millard Payne, Bridgend

Catherine Tanner BMus(Hons) ARCM

Our service is fully comprehensive. We will take the time to craft a bespoke design that’s tailored to your individual taste and requirements. Our professional in-house fitters will ensure your new bathroom is flawlessly brought to life with the minimum disruption to your home.

Our contemporary bathroom range includes baths, toilets, showers, taps, basins, radiators, towel warmers, tiles, mirrors and many more options to create the luxury bathroom of your dreams.

SHOWROOM ADDRESS

44 High Street, Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan, CF71

COST OF CANCER

Spring is here and I’m loving it. But did you know there’s still families out there who are struggling whilst undergoing treatment for cancer, so I just thought I would take this opportunity to mention why we do what we do here at Cost of Cancer.

For those of you who don’t know, we help families of those who are going through treatment for cancer. We help with the bills that arrive on the door mat every month regardless of what the occupants are going through. Bills like gas, electric, water etc. So, if your family is affected or you know someone is affected you know what to do, get in touch with us. We offer families total discretion and privacy.

It’s really important for those who need the help to come forward, your case will be treated with the upmost discretion. We understand how upsetting it can be to even admit you need help but please this is why we’re here. This is why we do all the fundraising to help those who need it the most. Talking of fundraising, we are also looking for volunteer marshals for our Valley to Coast Walk, who’s up for it? We cannot put this fantastic event on without the help of those who give their time freely to make sure everyone gets to Porthcawl safely, so come on it’s only for about 3 hours on the day. You can email us on info@costofcancer.org.uk.

Nicky, Emma & Cath Trustees

SOME OF THE BEST ANTI-AGING FOODS

Beautiful, glowing skin starts with how we eat, but these antiaging foods can also help with more than that. Watercress. This delicious green may boost immunity, aid digestion and provide thyroid support due to its iodine content.

Papaya. This delicious superfood is rich in a variety of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that may help to improve skin elasticity and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The wide range of antioxidants in papaya helps to fight free radical damage and may delay signs of aging Papaya also contains an enzyme called papain which provides additional anti-aging benefits by working as one of nature’s best anti-inflammatory agents.

Blueberries are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as an agedefying antioxidant called anthocyanin. This is what gives blueberries their deep, beautiful blue color.

Broccoli is an anti-inflammatory, anti-aging powerhouse packed with vitamins C and K and a variety of antioxidants. Your body needs vitamin C for the production of collagen, the main protein in skin that gives it strength and elasticity.

Other beneficial foods include, Spinach, Nuts, Avocado, Sweet potato and pomegranate seeds.

By nourishing ourselves with these anti-aging foods, we can gain fuel to look and feel our best.

Read more at www.healthline.com

Supplied by Glyn Hardwicke

A GIFT TO LOCAL STROKE CLUB

Mrs Barbara Matthews was presented with a £40 cheque from Mrs Wendy Williams Treasurer of the SKER WI. The cheque was originally for a Mr Clive Tranter who gave a talk at the SKER WI; on his position as a member of the security team, which was attached to the Royal Household. Mr Clive Tranter did not accept is fee and suggested that he would like it to go to charity.

Fortunately for us, The President Mrs Eunice Howells and committee members, made the decision, that the Porthcawl Stroke Club would be the benefactors of the money. We would like to take this opportunity, to thank them all from the bottom of our hearts for thinking of us at such difficult times. Because the Stroke Club is totally voluntary; all our supporters keep the Stroke Club running. A Stroke can knock the confidence out of anyone who was once an active member of society, therefore it is important that a unique support structure is available to the individual, so that they are not isolated or alone. The isolation of Covid pandemic most people experienced, imagine that for life, if nothing was available!

Chairman Mr Keith Duggan/Mary Duggan

ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY

Do you love to keep score? Remembering slights or adverse comments that others may have made against you? How about judging a performance so beloved of TV programmes like Dancing on Ice and Strictly.

Every single day thoughts are streaming through your mind whether you like it or not. Sometimes you can’t go to sleep as memories of past events (which you cannot change) or future worries (which may not happen) keep you awake.

What form do these thoughts take, is it family, work, friends or social? Thoughts can lead you on a merry dance, round and round, back and forth. How would a game panel score your thoughts? Or, try and think how your thoughts may be judged by an ordinary person walking down the street.

If this fills you with anxiety why not be gentle on yourself and try some self-care instead and say to yourself ‘It’s OK to feel like this’.

Start noticing your mind and score a thought then watch it retreat or grow bigger as you pay it attention.

Perhaps you realise the thought has gone away and has been replaced with new ideas and new thoughts.

Maybe you are managing your thoughts!

Margaret Brown

DOUBLE TROUBLE COFFEE ROASTERS

Happy FIRst birthday to us! We are your local coffee roasters.

We have our roastery in North Cornelly and have been roasting for a full year now! We hit the floor running with this little business as we took it over while the business was still trading and managed to move the roaster and do some serious roasting training while still completing orders…phew!

We are a small family run business and the ‘Double Trouble’ name now stands for two sisters! Together with our very handy husbands (they didn’t have a choice to be fair) ha!

Now that we are settled ish) into your roles we thought we would introduce yourselves to our community.

We started Double Trouble Coffee Roasters because Emma (one half of double trouble) who owns The Hyde Out. Coffee & Cake Bar in Kenfig Nature Reserve, used this coffee from the very beginning, because of the great quality beans anddue to the fantastic ethos behind where the coffee was sourced. It’s roasted locally, with direct links with the farm and everyone is paid fairly. Sustainable farming and being carbon naturel as possible. We love that it’s delivered direct to us, roasted, then straight to your cup. Quality freshly roasted coffee!

When the business came up for sale, Emma was worried about the supply of her coffee… then it made sense to take over the business, so now The Hyde Out can have a consent supply of freshly roasted coffee, still keeping with the same great tastes and the same ethos.

We currently supply a few fantastic outlets in Bridgend and Porthcawl as well as the farmers markets at Kenfig Nature Reserve every 3rd Sunday of the month, Cowbridge every other Saturday or you can purchase online of course too.

www.doubletroublecoffee.co.uk

DTC only roasts 100% Arabica coffee beans.

We have up to 15 coffee beans from all over the world. Take a look through to see which ones you will choose. Or visit The Hyde Out to sample the Brazilian Santos, sometimes a special coffee makes it into the hopper!

Thanks for reading…see you at the markets.

Pictures by Graham Davies Photography

SOME POSITIVE PROGRESS

Porthcawl Town Council has employed a Grounds Person and for those of you who visit Griffin Park regularly you will see that there has been good progress with the groundwork over the last couple of weeks. We have new bins to tackle the increasing litter problems, there are new benches on the way and the really exciting news is that there will be new play equipment installed in May! This will mean that the play area will have to be temporarily closed for around six weeks, however the benefits are going to be worth it and the Town Council will keep the community updated regarding progress.

With the forthcoming Kings Coronation there will be a Picnic in the Park event at Griffin Park on Saturday 6th May 2023 times to be confirmed and the Town Council has arranged a big screen so that the community can come together with their picnic blankets and enjoy watching the occasion. On the day there will also be some recreational activities for the children and the Council would like to give any local food and drink (nonalcoholic) suppliers an opportunity to promote their produce. If you would like to hire a stall at a minimal cost for a few hours on the day - Please contact ceri.john2@bridgend.gov.uk, sarah. watkins@bridgend.gov.uk, for information).

Part of the Town Council’s 2023/24 precept includes ‘The People’s Budget’. The Town Council have set aside £20,000 to give members of the community the opportunity to participate in how their money is spent. Participatory Budgeting has been designed to complement the work a Town Council wants to achieve and helps promote community cohesion and resilience. Going forward with this project we are asking members of the community to put forward one suggestion that they feel will benefit Porthcawl – just remember the budget is £20,000 and the Town Council has to work within it legislative powers! Your passion could be Christmas lighting, Flower Displays, Community Events??? Just let us know and the most popular project will be carried forward. Just email the Town Council ceri.john2@bridgend.gov.uk or look on the Town Councils new website which will be launched on 1st April 2023 and will include a link to the Vocaleyes app which allow you to put forward your suggestion. Finally, Valleys to Coast are looking to engage the local community in helping them name the block of new homes on Old Station Road. They want residents to help them by suggesting names that mean something to the local community in respect of the area and its history. The final decision lies with BCBC but in other areas names residents suggestions have been chosen. Names in English and Welsh are welcomed however the final name will be in Welsh. For information:

https://www.facebook.com/ValleystoCoast/posts/

DISABLED PARKING SPACES MAY BE NEEDED

I have been contacted by a disabled lady in Porthcawl concerned because she is often unable to park outside her home when other cars have taken the space. She has been in touch with BCBC to ask if they will create a designated parking space outside her home but she has been told that it is not council policy. Their response says that they have no statutory obligation to do so. They also say that providing these bays would have “considerable resource implications.”

I have contacted neighbouring councils Rhondda Cynon Taf, Vale of Glamorgan and Neath Port Talbot and all of them have a policy of providing these designated parking spaces although the numbers involved are relatively small.

This lady tells me that the situation has made her so anxious that at times she is afraid to go out in case she is unable to park near her home when she returns.

In order to gauge the scale of the problem, I urge anyone who needs a designated space outside his or her home to contact me so I can assess what demand exists. I can be e-mailed at Jamie.wallis.mp@parliament.uk

HELP AND SUPPORT FOR UNPAID CARERS

From 1 April 2023, a new provider will be looking after the Bridgend Carers Wellbeing service.

As a well-established charity organisation, TuVida already has an excellent reputation for providing high quality services. Now it will support people living in Bridgend County Borough by offering expert health and wellbeing advice, access to breaks for carers, grant support, advice about caring, free training, and the Carers Emergency Card initiative.

The transition between providers will be seamless, and anyone who is already registered as an unpaid carer with the existing Bridgend Carers Wellbeing service will continue to receive help and support as normal.

The appointment of TuVida follows a recent retendering exercise, which was designed to ensure that local people could receive the best standard of services possible.

Many residents of Bridgend County Borough provide unpaid care for a family member, partner, friend or neighbour, and the Bridgend Carers Wellbeing service is designed to help them directly, building up a reputation for supporting unpaid carers and providing vital support and advice in the local community. I hope that many more will reach out and discover how the service can provide them with valuable advice and help designed to support them in their caring responsibilities.

Deadline date for the May issue is: SATURDAY 15TH APRIL

Deputy Leader Bridgend County Borough Council 01656 643643

COUNCILLOR JANE GEBBIE

JAMIE WALLIS MP for Bridgend

CLLR MARK CHEGWEN, MAYOR Porthcawl Town Council

WELSH GOVERNMENT FAILING ON GP RECRUITMENT

In November, I raised with the Welsh Government the fact that residents in Porthcawl are struggling to get GP appointments, despite the practice doing their best to see patients. The First Minister assured me that more clinician time would be released to help GPs, but local residents are still finding it hard to get an appointment.

Of course, the staff at the practice have worked incredibly hard to deliver the care that patients need. However, the Welsh Government is letting down local residents by failing to provide a strategy to ensure GP recruitment and retention.

There’s no doubt we’re facing a crisis in primary care, with one in five GP practices closing in the last 10 years.

Furthermore, a Royal College of General Practitioners survey last year found that a third of GPs in Wales did not expect to still be in the profession in five years’ time. The most recent annual Welsh Government data on full-time equivalent GPs showed that just half of GPs work full time.

As I told the Minister for Health in the Senedd, urgent measures must be taken to ensure that GPs are attracted into full-time work at their practices, and that patients are freely able to see them in a face-to-face setting.

INVESTING INTO EDUCATION, SKILLS AND TRAINING

By the time you read this, the demolition of Bridgend town centre’s former police station should be well underway as part of the preparations for the development of the planned all-new Bridgend College campus. With work expected to take up to twelve weeks to complete, access to Cheapside and local businesses will be maintained throughout the demolition process. While the site forms a significant part of Bridgend County Borough Council’s regeneration plans for the town centre, it also represents a huge £50m investment into higher education, skills and training for communities all across Bridgend County Borough.

Plans are in place to lease the site to Bridgend College and to enable the Cowbridge Road campus to relocate there. The college plans to create a state of the art net-zero carbon building, with learning and teaching facilities for post-16 education in Bridgend fit for the 21st century.

Community benefits will include a 200-seat theatre space, a coffee shop and flexible meeting spaces.

Catering for at least 1,000 staff and students, this represents a £50 million investment into skills and training for the people of Bridgend County Borough, one that will act as a catalyst for wider regeneration by increasing footfall, enhancing public transport facilities and supporting local businesses.

HOW SHOULD PUBLIC OPEN SPACE BE USED?

I’d like to thank everyone who took part in the recent sessions at the Grand Pavilion, which asked for views on how new public open space should be used.

The sessions showcased several potential options as well as designs for how the public open space could be developed to benefit residents and visitors alike.

Organised in line with the Placemaking Wales Charter, businesses and residents were encouraged to view exhibition boards, speak to regeneration staff and give their thoughts on the proposals.

Potential ideas have included skateparks, pump tracks, ‘splash park’ style water-based facilities, an open-air amphitheatre and performance venue, community gardens, green walking routes, outdoor gym and multiuse game zones, space suitable for staging seasonal events such as visiting speciality markets or Christmas ice rinks, and much more.

The exhibition materials from the event are available to view online at the council’s website and you have until 7 April to submit your comments.

Bridgend County Borough Council is committed towards ensuring that the open spaces within the planned regeneration area respond to the needs of current and future generations, and I am really pleased to see how people have welcomed this opportunity to have their say on the future of Porthcawl.

Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council

Tel: 01656 643643

DENTAL PATIENTS NEED NEW SURGERY

I know that many Porthcawl residents were patients of the Broadlands Dental practice in Bridgend, which decided last year that it was going private. Those who could not or would not pay for private dental care were promised at the time by the Cwm Taf Morgannwg health board that they would be transferred to alternative NHS practices.

I have recently asked the board for an update. They tell me that 3345 patients, including those from Broadlands, are still waiting to be re-assigned to other NHS practices. In the meantime, emergency dental care is available at a clinic staffed by the board in Gilfach Goch although I fear that this is almost impossible to reach on public transport from Porthcawl. However, they tell me that a new dental practice is due to open in Bridgend by the end of this year and will take many if not all of those waiting locally.

This situation is not of the health board’s making but it reveals the precarious state of NHS dentistry in Wales with dentists complaining bitterly about the new contract that they have from Welsh Government which they claim gives them less money and is leading to many giving up NHS practice altogether.

DR ALTAF HUSSAIN Regional Senedd Member

Tel: 01656 643643

COUNCILLOR NEELO FARR Cabinet Member for Regeneration Bridgend County Borough Council

COUNCILLOR HUW DAVID

TOM GIFFARD

Welsh Conservative regional Senedd member for South Wales West

GET IN TOUCH!

I am the newly appointed Local Sustainable Development Coordinator for Sustainable Wales, based here in Porthcawl, wishing to work with the community to encourage sustainable living and reduce our town’s impact on the environment. I am optimistic that simple changes yet urgent actions can build a sustainable future.

My name is Ella Williamson and have a Masters in Climate Change, Development and Policy, therefore I have an understanding of climate change and how we can improve our routine behaviour and make changes/create action to lower our impact.

I live in Porthcawl, love our seaside town and hope to help bring positive changes to the area, which will make Porthcawl a more sustainable seaside town.

I would welcome the opportunity to talk to your community group and discuss some simple actions that will make a big difference! I am sure you have noticed the changes in our natural world, for instance the wild and sporadic weather or the very rare sighting of a bumble bee.

Also ‘Better Porthcawl’, is a developing network of groups, which engages with the council on regeneration of the town’s waterfront. I can also share updates I have with you.

Contact: ella.williamson@sustainablewales.org.uk tel. 01656 783962

CREW MEMBER TO RUN MARATHON

Porthcawl RNLI is delighted one of its own volunteer crew; Gareth Charnock is running in the TCS London Marathon 2023 for Porthcawl RNLI.

Gareth said: ‘I’ve been a volunteer at Porthcawl RNLI for almost 7 years and during that time been involved in numerous incidents and rescues. I’ve seen first hand how public donations to the charity save lives, which is why I wanted to take on this challenge and raise further funds for Porthcawl RNLI. ‘I’m really pleased to have been chosen for an RNLI charity place and as owner of Porthcawl Health and Fitness; I’m looking forward to the personal challenge of running the marathon. I’ve been running in shorter events for some time but this will be my first full marathon. It will also be the first time I’ve visited London, so I’m looking forward to seeing all the sights and landmarks too. Porthcawl RNLI lifeboat operations manager, Philip Missen MBE said: ‘Gareth is a great example of how far our crews are willing to go to support us. He’s an integral part of our volunteer crew but also no stranger to raising funds for us either. Over the years he’s organised regular fundraising events for us, often getting his gym members involved too.

‘The RNLI is proud of its long heritage and tradition of voluntary fundraising. It is only thanks to thousands of people like Gareth, raising funds for us, that we can continue to save lives at sea.’

To sponsor Gareth (all donations will go to Porthcawl RNLI): https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/porthcawl-rnligareth

PORTHCAWL COMPREHENSIVE

NEWS

BRYNTIRION COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL

We have recently held our Senior and Junior Eisteddfod at the Grand Pavilion, a fantastic event, celebrating all things Wales. There were some outstanding performances on-stage and some excellent work completed for the off-stage competitions – well done everyone! Congratulations to Powys house who won.

There have been several extra-curricular trips and visits taking place. During the February half term, our A Level History pupils enjoyed a fantastic trip to the Houses of Parliament and the Imperial War Museum. At the start of March, pupils in Year 8 and Year 9 went on a residential trip to Paris. It has been lovely to hear about Disneyland, the Eiffel Tower, and of course the shopping trip! On 12th March 42 pupils went to London Stadium to watch West Ham draw 1-1 with Aston Villa – an experience they will remember! We look forward to the Year 7 Paris trip, the trip to Berlin and the DofE training walks taking place at the end of this term.

To end, I would like to congratulate our Year 9 rugby team who were victorious in the quarter finals of the Welsh Cup against Penweddig 30-7 and now play Bassaleg in the semi final - an excellent achievement! A talented group of rugby players, we wish them all the best of luck in the rest of the tournament.

M Stephens, Head Teacher

NEWTON PRIMARY NEWS

Year 5&6 have been studying Wales through our topic ‘Cymru Am Byth’ this term. We organised several trips to St Fagan’s, where the children filmed their own Vlogs documenting their personal learning experiences. In February we went to Big Pit Blaenavon, which was an excellent opportunity to learn about life in a coal mine in South Wales. We also visited the Police Museum in Bridgend, which showcased the changes in policing across the decades. We were also lucky to be able to meet some of the animals that help support police officers in their work. We established a link with a school in Caerphilly and this opened up a range of possibilities to share and compare experiences. We were able to learn about life in a contrasting locality in Wales. The children led virtual Q&A sessions and sent emails to their new friends in St James’ Primary School. We wrote our own bilingual school song entitled ‘Cymru Am Byth’ which we recorded and taught to the KS2 classes in time for St David’s Day. This followed up on our recent success at Christmas when our song ‘Christmas is the time to surf with Santa’ was played on Heart Radio, Radio Wales and Bridge FM. The children were also interviewed by Jagger and Woody! Mr Jenkins (Teacher)

We’d like to start by congratulating Megan-Ruby Clarke, Year 11, who has been selected for the U16 Welsh Schools Girls Squad – a fantastic achievement and we wish you all the best for the season! Two pupils from Bryntirion were nominated for the Mid Glamorgan High Sheriff Youth Awards last month for their hard work and determination and we are so proud that Lauren Howe and Ollie Mallin won 3rd place. Ollie and the Bridgend Young Carers Ambassadors won the group award for their continued support and advocacy for Young Carers in our community. Well done all! As part of the First Give project, pupils were asked to bring in donations of food for the Bridgend Foodbank. In just 3 days, we were able to donate a total of 358kg of food! A huge thank you to all who helped support this wonderful cause and our local community! Rehearsals for our school production, Beauty and the Beast, are well underway and we look forward to welcoming you to evening performances on 19th, 20th 21st April, as well as a matinee performance of 21st April. Tickets are available now from the school office.

CYNFFIG COMPRENEHSIVE NEWS

Employers from Law firms to CGI, Little Footsteps Nursery to Technocamps visited our school to provide pupils with first hand information at our Careers Fair. Pupils from Year 7 to 13 were able to talk to and even try out their skills with providers to experience the world of work and plan for their future. This month we have introduced our Empathy Listeners group. Made up of pupils from years 8 to 10 the Listeners have learned how to listen empathetically to their peers in training sessions led by Empathy Lab. It is important to us that pupils don’t bottle up their worries and know who they can talk to. That means the Listeners are available at break and lunchtime for pupils to share any concerns they may have and offer an empathetic ear. Year 7 pupils have been exploring Folklore and Mythology in their Expressive Arts lessons. Pupils thoroughly enjoyed a visit to St Fagans, which provided inspiration for their mixed media artwork, folk songs and stories.

Congratulations to pupils and staff for an unforgettable production of Matilda. The energy of the cast as well as the commitment of pupils backstage combined to make an evening, which was thoroughly entertaining and uplifting. Hannah Castle, Head Teacher

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Spring term has been especially busy with GCSE and A-Level examination classes working towards their final examinations this summer.

Pupils from Nursery to Year 6 wowed us in Welsh costume for St David’s Day, and World Book Day saw yet another wonderful array of costumes from Fantastic Mr Fox to Where’s Wally?

We were thrilled to win the Porthcawl & Pyle Library Quiz. Our team will compete in the Bridgend County Schools Library Quiz in June.

At St Clare’s, an enriching school experience is as important as academic progress. We aim to provide a multitude of trips, musicals, sporting, and cultural events. We have some exciting residential trips planned for this year and next. Our pupils have enjoyed much success in many sporting fixtures such as rugby, netball and cross country. A heartfelt thank you to the parents who came in to speak to pupils about their varied and interesting career pathways.

Finally, Year 6 have been in our Senior School for a series of specialist masterclasses each week, culminating in a Senior Discovery Day before Easter.

Helen Hier, Head Teacher

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NEWYDDION SGÊR

Over the past few weeks we have been busy preparing for the Urdd Eisteddfod. The pupils have been reciting, singing and dancing in the hall and on the yard! Good luck to all involved. We held a musical activity day to celebrate Dydd Miwsig Cymru. There was drumming, recorders, composing, singing, and dancing! We also celebrated World Book Day, with pupils dressed as characters or wearing nightwear ready for a bedtime story.

On March the 1st, we held a School Eisteddfod to celebrate St David’s Day. Thank you to Mrs Dixon who returned to school to facilitate the day and judge the art and literature competitions. Congratulations to Seren Cawdery for winning the Baird’s Chair, and runners up Paige Phillips and Gwenllian Thomas.

KS2 visited Cardiff Castle as part of our Wonderful World theme. We had an excellent time, learning about medieval armoury and weapons. We also had a guided tour of the Victorian castle and climbed the Norman castle to see the views of the city. We look forward to welcoming new starters to the nursery class in April. We still have space in our happy school for more learners.

For information, contact 01656 754865 or admin@yfos.pen-y-bont.cymru

THROUGH CHRISTIAN EYES

At Easter Christians celebrate the most important event in the life of Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection. It is so important that the only two ceremonies commanded by Jesus, Holy Communion and Believers Baptism focus on it.

If you would like to know more about these, especially Believers Baptism, we invite you to come along on Easter Sunday to Gilgal Baptist Church, Park Avenue Porthcawl for our 10.30am morning Family Celebration Service when we will be baptising new believers by total immersion. It is a special moment when a Christian shows their faith in baptism and a cause of rejocing and celebration for the whole church.

The Apostle Paul explains the link between baptism and the dying and rising of Jesus Christ in this way: ‘We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life” (The letter to the Romans chapter 6 verse 4).

The Christian faith is centred on the cross and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He died for us and we seek to live for Him. Why not explore the Christian faith for yourself this Easter? Contact me if you would like to know more. Have a wonderful Easter.

Rev. Martin Gillard BD MA Gilgal Baptist Church, Porthcawl.

TOOLS FOR SELF RELIANCE

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN PORTHCAWL

Diolch o galon – our heartfelt thanks to all those who have attended and helped to organise our events so far this year. For the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in January, we spent time together in prayer, fellowship and worship. Taking our lead from Isaiah 1:17 - ‘do good; seek justice’, we questioned how our churches respond to challenges around diversity and inclusivity - both locally and in the wider world.

During our AGM in February, we paid tribute to John Berry and Canon Philip Masson for their years of service to Churches

Together. Dr Peter Evans from Porthcawl Medical Centre gave us an honest and challenging talk entitled, ‘Who cares?’ As one attendee commented, ‘It made us all realise, especially in these uncertain times, that a caring community like ours in Porthcawl is so necessary to encourage hope and deter apathy, which it sometimes feels, is creeping in.’

Christian Aid Week (15-21 May) is on the horizon, and we will be fundraising for their work in places such as Turkey and Syria. More details on our Facebook page facebook.com/eglwysi and in church notices soon!

Pob bendith - every blessing.

Churches Together in Porthcawl

The picture shows a typical workplace for repairing a vehicle gearbox, no workshop, no bench, only the dusty ground but without the automotive kits we send this type of work would not be possible. The kits consist of a whole range of tools –Socket sets, bottle jacks, as can be seen in use here, spanners, hammers, files, screw drivers and a whole lot more, enough to do most jobs. The kits come in three sizes, individual for one man and group for several men and a larger training kit. Not only do Tools for Self reliance send kits but also make sure correct training is given plus health and safety and financial management so the recipients can eventually start a business to get them and their families out of poverty.

We are very grateful for the tools you donate but most people may not be aware of the tools in the automotive kits. We are always short of working bottle jacks, tyre pumps, ball pein and cross pein hammers, files of all sizes and shapes and anything else you may want to donate relating to car and lorry work. Please contact John on 01656 786367.

David Cook, Workshop Manager

PORTHCAWL WI

Last month our members were impressed and engaged with a remarkable demonstration by Yvonne Randall. Her amazing skills with wrapping presents with paper and reusable material . Scarves were wrapped to make bottle bags, a double gift. Clever ideas are always appreciated . Normal business was followed with tea and biscuits . Lots of brilliant talks and demonstrations are planned for the coming months.

Why not come along to join us. We meet on the second Tuesday of the month at 2pm in All Saints church hall. Phone Tina Richards 01656 788725 for more information if needed.

PORTHCAWL JOY-RIDERS

Porthcawl JOYriders, part of the international Cycling Without Age non profit global initiative, is now well established in the town and already has an extensive portfolio of rest homes, whose residents are benefiting from this exciting venture.

Manned by a team of enthusiastic volunteers, fund raising and promotional activity has secured the purchase of a trishaw, which is now being used along the beautiful Porthcawl seafront. The joy this enterprise brings to older residents and those with mobility difficulties is tangible and the pilots who provide this free service enjoy the experience just as much.

We are a small group but want to expand and would welcome applications to become pilots as the charity grows. Experience is not essential, but past or present cycling knowledge would be useful. Our trishaws have electric power assist so you don’t need to be Sir Chris Hoy to volunteer.

Full training is given and you can offer as much or as little time as you are able. Join us as a JOY-rider pilot and experience the beauty of Porthcawl seafront in a new and exciting way. For further details please contact Steve McCreery on 07791 101081 or email smccreery@hotmail.co.uk

INTERNATIONAL NIGHT

MYNYDD CYNFFIG WI

Tuesday the 14th and we’re meeting in the Talbot Center Kenfig Hill. The weather was fine and sunny and the Talbot Center nice and warm, WI business discussed and sorted. The year is starting to rush ahead with all the things in the pipeline, the National AGM in Cardiff, the Annual Council meeting in port Talbot in April our AGM and our coronation tea on May the 9th. Our lunch club is going from strength to strength, as is our walking and scrabble clubs. Our speaker had to postpone but Enid gave us a talk of the time she and her sister walked the pilgrim way to Santiago De Compostela 100 miles not so many years ago and how she found it so uplifting. Next month is our AGM so no speaker but still lots of chatter, laughter and of course tea and biscuits call in and see us.

Christine Callaghan

The Porthcawl Rotary Club recently held its annual International Night at the Hi-Tide, when once again invited students from Atlantic College came to share an evening of music, food and culture.

Eleven International students and 116 guests were welcomed by Rotarian, Andrew Singer who then introduced talented students from Porthcawl Comprehensive School who performed extracts of their show “Footloose”.

After the excellent meal, Carol Llewellyn, Porthcawl Rotary President gave a warm welcoming speech to everybody.

Rotarian, Bobby Lewis then introduced the students (from Belgium, Zimbabwe, Peru, Cuba, Slovakia, India, Iran, Nepal, Greenland, and Angola) and invited each student to give a presentation about their country and culture. They also explained how they underwent a highly competitive selection process to join Atlantic College.

It was inspiring to hear young people say they were going to “make a difference” in the world.

Elena and Katie, from Atlantic College, gave a brief talk about Atlantic College and mentioned that many students are on full scholarships, then thanked Porthcawl Rotary on behalf of the students.

Rotarian, Hugh Moatt concluded the evening by thanking those involved in organising the event and thanked everybody for supporting Rotary. What a wonderful night!

Rtn Robert Lee

SKER WI NEWS

Sker WI meet on the 9th March was open by our President Eunice Howell and Jerusalem was sung. She introduce our guest speaker Sue Saines, who is a Fellow of the Institute of Professional Will Makers, from The Paperwork People. Sue explain how she had started the business to help people to make Wills and Power of Attorneys in an informal and friendly way. She was extremely interesting and explain things in down to earth terms and was asked lots of questions from the members. She said that people were welcome to call and have a chat with her at her office in Porthcawl. Hazel Jenkins gave the vote of thanks.

Members were reminded of the Birthday Supper on April 24th and Coronation Celebration Buffet on May 11th. Our April meeting is on Thursday 13th when our speaker will be Neil Davies.

The meeting closed with the National Anthem. New members are always welcome.

Jackie Jones

GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND

FRIENDS OF MONZE (ZAMBIA)

Could you help someone with sight loss get out and about?

Bridgend guide dog Nikita is 10 and about to hang up her harness, leaving owner Ros with no means of getting out and about unless a human guide comes forward to plug the gap temporarily.

Ros, aged 70 and living in Litchard, said: “Guide Dogs Cymru warned me I might face a long wait for my next dog because there is such great demand since lockdown. I’ve had seven dogs in total and never been without, so I’m hoping someone will come forward to be a sighted guide while they find me the next dog.

“I like walking and going shopping in town, although I’m not as fast as I used to be, and I also need to get to hospital appointments. Nikita will live with me in retirement, so it would be great to find a dog lover who would help me give her a free run. She deserves it, as she has been a beautiful dog and I will really miss having her as my guide.”

Training as a volunteer sighted guide is free and a great skill to add to your CV.

More details at bit.ly/42eh35W

PORTHCAWL LIONS

Porthcawl Lions are pleased to confirm that their summer car boot sales will resume at Pyle Rugby Club on Sunday 7th. May. There will be details on Facebook or Porthcawl Lions website. The club also hopes to hold a Summer Fair, again at Pyle Rugby Club, on the 4th. August.

Another event that is back this year is the Golf Day at The Grove Golf Club on Friday 9th. June, in aid off Prostate Cancer Cymru. Organisers are looking for teams of 4 to participate and individuals or businesses to sponsor a hole. Again, further details on the website or from club members.

With such a busy time ahead Porthcawl Lions are always looking to welcome new members or Lion Friends. If you would like to do something positive in the community while meeting new friends and enjoying some social life Lions maybe for you. If you can’t spare the time, or make the commitment to becoming a member at this time why not become a Lion Friend. There will be no minimum commitment, you will be asked to help at whatever events you can and be invited to social events, for example Charter Night, our one formal event of the year.

J Cosson

We are a Bridgend based registered charity that improves lives in Monze. Our principle is ‘to help communities help themselves’. After providing a water borehole in a rural village the next step depends on the villagers. They all want and REALLY need a school so old, young, men and women work together to prove they are motivated and willing to help and support build their school. Bricks are handmade, labour intensive and very heavy! A school needs 17,000 bricks. Water is pumped and added to mud, which is squashed into a brick mould. The brick is really soft and difficult to keep in shape when taken out of the mould. It is then laid out in the hot sun to dry. This process is then REPEATED 17,000 times. When dry the bricks are stacked into a tower with an opening at the bottom for a fire. The bricks slowly ‘cook’ for 3 days and are then left to cool down for 2 days.

The villagers also need to dig foundations, collect sand and chips stones to make ‘chippings’, all of course by hand!

For more information contact www.friendsofmonze.org or via Facebook

PORTHCAWL U3A

Our February talk given at the Hi Tide by Ceri Joseph of Porthcawl Museum must have been one of our most popular to date, we had 104 members, standing room only at the back. As for our many interest groups, as an example of what we get up to, five members of one of our three Writing for Pleasure groups won prizes in the Short Crime Stories Competition run by Awen Cultural Trust including first prize by the group leader Claudette Evans. We’re told there are stories in every one of us (if not a whole book!) so why not join one of our writing groups. We always have room for budding authors in a relaxed and friendly environment. One of the advantages of retirement is having the time to indulge in all the activities you had no time for before, and Porthcawl u3a offers so much every month. The next monthly talk on Wednesday 5 April by Dean Powell will be of great interest to us in Wales. It is entitled ‘Battle of the Choirs’. Need we say more!

Website: porthcawlu3a.org.uk

FEATURES

CRUSE LUNCHEON

Bridgend Soroptimists held a luncheon in February at the Heronston Hotel Bridgend in support of the Cruse Bereavement Charity.

Soroptimist clubs throughout South Wales have been working with Cruse for some years now, before and after the Covid pandemic.

Club Presidents from Swansea, Port Talbot and Neath clubs joined Bridgend members to hear Claire Horrex, Cruse Community Fundraising Manager give a presentation on the work undertaken by Cruse. She illustrated the methods used to assist the bereaved and stressed the variety of ways it is possible for them to access their services. Local support groups are on hand together with one-to-one consultations and since Covid Cruse use Zoom consultations too. The demand for support is increasing year on year and the service is offered free for all whenever needed.

Soroptimist International South Wales continue their involvement with the charity and are holding a Fashion Show on 22nd March at the Heronston Hotel. Models will be dressed by the Samantha B Boutique Ewenny. For more info http://www.facebook.com/ BridgendSoroptimists or sigbi.org/bridgend-and-district/ New members welcome.

Eileen Bailey

Photographed L/R President Helen Bayley Port Talbot, President Angela Ball Swansea, Claire Horrex CRUSE, President Janet Jean Neath, President Gaynor Hoare Bridgend.

PORTHCAWL GUILD NEWS

On the worst day for weather this year hardy members gathered for our AGM. Reports of the years events were given by our officers.   Special mention was made of the tree that had been planted for the Queens Jubilee and is thriving. Dee Richardson was thanked for standing in again as treasurer and given flowers. The new treasurer is Annette Lloyd. Flowers were presented to Jean Dorrington as our retiring president. Our new president is June Cooke who has served the Guild well. Names of members for our Coronation lunch on May 4th were taken. Any excuse for a lunch is always welcome. Our meeting this month is on Wednesday April 12th 2.0 p.m. at the Grove Golf Club when the speaker will be Eryl Ring. Do come along and try us out!

Dorothy Thomas (01656) 772157

NEWTON WI

Our March meeting coincided with St. David’s Day. The evening began with singing Jerusalem followed by the Welsh National Anthem. The business part of the meeting completed we then were able to celebrate our Patron Saint. A delicious meal of potato and leak soup, with bread roll, followed by Welsh cakes, tea/coffee, all beautifully prepared by our President. Theresa provided the entertainment for the evening with her amazing St. David’s Day quiz.

There was an excellent response from our members who gave most generously to the Food Bank; this will now become a monthly collection.

Last month on 21st. Feb (Shrove Tuesday) we held our annual ‘Pancake morning’. Many thanks to Jennifer and Shirley for cooking such delightful pancakes. As usually happens we then participated in the Pancake Tossing contest, the winner was Sandra Hunter, the wooden spoon going to Margaret Davies. A fun morning, which everyone enjoyed.

M Freeman

Deadline date for the May issue is:

SATURDAY 15TH APRIL

PORTHCAWL NCI REPORT

The Watchkeepers have generally had quiet time in the Watch Tower through the winter months, due to the short days, cold sea, bad weather etc. With Easter fast approaching though, that will change dramatically, especially if there is some warm, sunny weather for the holiday period. It will be good to see more people taking advantage of the wonderful beaches around Porthcawl and the opportunity for a myriad of water sports. We will be watching every day to help make sure all beach and water users stay safe. Opening hours change for April starting off from 0800 to 2000, then from 16th April, 0830 to 2030.

The six remaining Trainees are working hard learning all they need to know to become fully trained Watchkeepers. A couple have already successfully passed their assessment with the rest being assessed during April. Having them as trained Watchkeepers will make sure there is enough cover for three watches each day.

Jackie, one of our Watchkeepers regularly sets up a secondhand book stall outside the Station on weekends through the summer. If you fancy a good book, look out for her, all the money goes towards keeping the station open.

Laurence Bater, Media Officer

THE GOLDEN AGE OF HOLLYWOOD: GLORIA SWANSON

Gloria Swanson (March 27, 1899 – April 4, 1983) achieved fame in the 1920s as an actress and producer. A ‘silent’ star, she was nominated three times for the Academy Award for Best Actress. After walk-on parts, Paramount Pictures offered Gloria Swanson a seven year contract. A series of society movies directed by Cecil B. DeMille transformed her into a superstar. In 1925, Gloria Swanson joined United Artist as one of the film industry’s pioneering women filmmakers. She produced and starred in silent movies and, in 1929, made her sound debut in The Trespasser. Her movie career waned in the 1930s, but she did appear on stage and in television productions.

Gloria Swanson married six times. Her sixth, and longest marriage (seven years, ended at her death) was to William Dufty, a writer who worked at the New York Post. Gloria and her husband befriended John Lennon and Yoko Ono who were big fans of Dufty’s work. Gloria testified on Lennon’s behalf at his immigration hearing in New York City, which led to Lennon becoming a permanent US resident.

Hannah Howe, author of Tula, a novel about an actress in the Golden Age of Hollywood. https://hannah-howe.com

WRECKERS OFF NEWTON

Initially, Newton had been the local seaport. Between c1450-c1750 “The Weare at Newton’ traded within the Bristol Channel exporting butter, wheat, sheep and raw wool. Imports tended to be salt, grain, apples or pears. One trader was William Leyshon whose ship the ‘Five Brothers of Newton,’ named after his sons, amassed enough of a fortune to enable him to build the infamous Red House just off the shore. (photo 1950’s) Within time, along with The Jolly Sailor Pub, it became the rendezvous of smugglers; and the beach before it the hunting ground of wreckers notorious for robbing the dead. There was many a rich picking along such a treacherous coast as many a vessel came to grief with the natives of Newton levying a toll on the bodies that came ashore, often reaping rich harvests. Unfortunately, there were sinister rumours that at times violence preceded robbery for life was not always extinct. There are, also, many tales of smugglers and wreckers luring ships onto the rocks through tying lanterns to sheep or cattle. In bad weather the bobbing lights would give the impression of a ship sheltering near land. Instead of safety, Tusker Rock lay in wait!

In the 1750’s wrecking was eventually made a capital offence. Ceri Joseph

HAVE WE REACHED A PLATEAU?

At the time of writing this, I have just seen a report from the USA saying that mortgage rates are about to fall there. However before you get too excited, the situation in the UK is that whilst the Bank of England is poised to hold the bank rate, it does not necessarily mean interest rates here will fall unless you’re on a standard variable rate or tracker rate.

In fact, after several reductions in the last couple of months, rates seem to have levelled off, hanging around the four to five percent mark, although there are exceptions where rates are a little lower because the borrowing is very low or other particular reason.

As a point of interest, turn the clock back six or seven years and a four or five percent interest rate was pretty standard and mortgages were still better than renting in terms of monthly costs. As with all cycles though, sometimes costs go up and currently the period of cheap money is over for the foreseeable future.

Wherever you find yourself at this moment mortgage-wise, to secure the best rates, deal with an independent broker who has access to the whole market and therefore in a position to find the very best rates that are available.

As for Later Life Borrowers, many of whom will be getting requests from their lenders to pay back the capital that is outstanding, especially on interest-only mortgages, where they don’t have the available capital to repay the loan. You really need to give us a call since we deal with all the major later life lenders who offer schemes, many of which allow you to continue paying interest-only or no payments at all until the property is sold in future years.

In 2022, we saved several borrowers in their seventies from repossession by arranging an alternative borrowing facility that allowed them to pay off the current lender which had been threatening Court action to retrieve the outstanding loan amount as redemption dates were reached.

The simple message here is not to put your head in the sand but to speak with someone who could help you.

As for new borrowers, yes the market is tougher than in recent years but securing a mortgage can still be very much less than paying rent, if you have steady income and are responsible in your approach to how you use your hard-earned money.

Call us on 01656 782545 or 07768 418308 and we’ll happily discuss your situation in total privacy and could well provide the answer to calming your fears over higher rates.

PAUL FIELDING

Dragon Financial

01656 782545 / 07768 418308

HAVE YOU WRITTEN OFF LIFETIME MORTGAGES TOO QUICKLY?

It’s always an uphill struggle to shake off a chequered past and Equity release suffered its fair share of bad press in the 80’s and 90’s. The main reason was due to the lack of regulation resulting in poor consumer protection and products that didn’t function as they should.

So, what’s changed? Well, to begin with Equity release is now regulated by the FCA, meaning far greater protection for consumers. Today, the most popular type of equity release is called a Lifetime mortgage and the number of Lifetime mortgage lenders over the past decade has grown dramatically. This increased competition means that consumers have far more choice and, in my opinion has transformed lifetime mortgages into a much more flexible and attractive product. Probably, the most routine question I get asked is about negative equity as many people have heard the horror stories of parents leaving large debts to family because the lifetime mortgage has grown larger than the house value. This is no longer an issue. Due to the introduction of the “No Negative Equity Guarantee” which prevents any negative equity scenarios arising.

How you release your equity is up to you! You can decide to take a one-off lump sum or you may prefer to take multiple smaller withdrawals. You can decide if you want to pay the interest off each month keeping the loan the same or have no mortgage payments at all and let the interest roll up.

Following this positive evolution, the popularity of Lifetime Mortgages has grown exponentially with many more people

now using the equity trapped in their homes.

The most common uses are for home improvements, cover increasing living costs, clear interest only mortgages, provide income into retirement, passing on early gifts to loved ones or for IHT purposes.

The simple facts are if you are over 55 and own your own home you could be eligible for a Lifetime mortgage and release a taxfree lump sum to spend as you like.

If you don’t ask you don’t get! So why not utilise our free 1hour consultation. Every financial decision will have its pros and cons so getting impartial advice is key to helping you work out exactly if a Lifetime mortgage is right for you.

Call Abacus Assurance on 01656 772222 if you require further information on Lifetime Mortgages.

Abacus Assurance FS Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the financial Conduct Authority.

A lifetime mortgage is secured against your home.

If you would like your child to learn important lifesaving 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, basic lifesaving skills, surf and beach sports such as wading, surf swimming, board paddling, beach flags, beach sprints and relays.

Nippers train indoors at Pyle pool throughout the year, and at Rest Bay beach during the summer months.

Nippers are able to obtain various surf safety awards, and are taught valuable lifesaving and safety skills at both the beach and the pool.

If you would like more information please contact:

contacting

please say you saw them in the

LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY

When someone (the ‘donor’) makes a lasting power of attorney (LPA), they appoint one or more individuals (the ‘attorneys’) to make decisions on their behalf. Typically, only used when the donor no longer has the mental capacity to do so.

Being an attorney for a family member or friend could mean making difficult decisions about that person’s finances or health and welfare. You may have to make those decisions alone or with other appointed attorneys.

Before agreeing to take on lasting power of attorney responsibilities, you should think carefully about what you will be signing up for.

If you do not think you have the expertise, or the time to take on the responsibilities of an attorney, you should let the donor know. This is preferable to accepting the role only to surrender it at a later date, when the donor may no longer be in a position to make other arrangements.

An LPA does not give you unlimited authority to make decisions on behalf of the donor.

A lasting power of attorney can be either a property and financial affairs LPA - which allows the attorney to make decisions about finances and property - or a health and welfare LPA (healthcare and personal welfare decisions).

Being appointed under one type of application does not give you the authority to make decisions under the other and vice versa although you can be appointed as attorneys under both applications.

You cannot act under an LPA until it has been registered with the Office of the Public Guardian.

An LPA may only authorise you to act if the donor lacks the mental capacity to make the decision. If you are unsure whether the donor has capacity, you should get an expert opinion (eg from a doctor).

An LPA may appoint more than one attorney. If so, the attorneys may be required to make some or all decisions together (ie unanimously) rather than independently.

If you no longer wish to be an attorney, you can ‘disclaim’ the role. If the LPA has not yet been registered, you should give formal notice to the donor. If the LPA has been registered, you must contact the Office of the Public Guardian.

COHABITATION RIGHTS

A common misconception is that “common law marriage” comes into being after a couple have lived together for more than two years. This is not the case; cohabiting couples don’t have the same rights as married couples and so it is worth considering the options to protect yourself and your partner if the relationship breaks down or even if one of you were to die. If you live in a house which your partner owns, you have no automatic right in respect of it. Therefore, if your partner dies, you may find yourself having to leave your home unless they have made a provision for you to remain, known as a right of occupation, in their will. This will enable you to live in the home, sometimes upon condition that you don’t remarry, or cohabit with a new partner at the property.

As a cohabitee you won’t benefit from any payments in respect of your deceased partner’s pension, unless you are nominated as beneficiary of their pension, thus guaranteeing you a lump sum or income in the event of their death.

When setting up home with your partner it is worth considering what would happen if the relationship broke down. A cohabitation contract, which is a little like a pre-nuptial agreement, can set out arrangements regarding payment of bills and funding of improvements to the property and how these payments will be reimbursed in the event of separation. It can also clarify whether any contributions to the property would mean that the non-owning partner gained an interest in it.

It may be difficult to broach the subject of a cohabitation contract but if you and your partner think about the issues at the outset you will avoid confusion during the relationship and stress and anxiety at the end.

CEFN CRIBWR GARDENING CLUB

LALESTON GARDENING CLUB

“April hath put the spirit of youth in everything” (William Shakespeare)

Climbing and rambling roses should be tied in now. Training the shoots as horizontal as possible, meaning the sap is restricted, causing more side shoots to develop along the length of the main stem, which in turn produces more flowers If left to grow vertically all the flowers are produced at the top of the stems where they can be difficult to see, shame.

Sweet Peas are the flower of the month! Soak the seeds overnight to improve germination, Choose a scented variety, a sweet pea without scent is like a rose without thorns!

Tulips hit their stride this month and the year turns a corner, they burst out with a fanfare of every colour (except blue there is one called “blue parrot” but its a doubtful blue!) How lovely they are, the first blaze of colour for the year. Did your know – when your cut tulips get droopy stick a pin through the stem right under the flower, soon they will be standing as straight as little soldiers! It releases the air that gets trapped in the stems and allows water to be absorbed by the tulip.

Chris Early

PORTHCAWL FLORAL ARRANGEMENT SOCIETY

We enjoyed our first meeting back at Awel Y Mor Centre on March 8th. We were entertained by Donald Morgan who demonstrated 5 beautiful classical arrangements with spring flowers. We learnt plenty of tips and feel inspired to make our own floral decorations. He was especially informative about ways to use and manipulate foliage from our own gardens.  We have a chance to try something new at our next Practice night when we will be creating arrangements to depict elegance from a chosen era. Hats, jewellery, feathers and other accessories will accompany flowers and foliage. This will be a challenge for all to enjoy.

On April 12th we have Kevin Thomas who is the Head Nurseryman at Cardiff’s Bute Park, talking about the Flower Arranger’s Garden. We have a demonstration by Barbara Cummings on 10th May and Practice nights on 26th April and 24th May.

Visitors are always welcome at our meetings and can enrol at any time if they wish to join. As well as demonstrations and Practice evenings with tuition, we have a few speaker meetings and a club competition in the Summer. We also plan to arrange some excursions and social events and have a Facebook page and WhatsApp group for more information.

Alison Thomas Club Secretary (07581 048448)

April signifies that Spring is really here, but where your plants are concerned caution is still the watchword as the weather can be fickle.  Although there are many things to be done, one thing not to do is buy bedding plants.  Large supermarkets and garden outlets start putting temptation in the way by displaying trays of pretty plants, but frosts can devastate so not a good idea.  Veg seeds can continue to be sown as can hardy annual flowers too, perennials, trees, shrubs and roses from containers can be planted into borders. Second early potatoes and onion sets can be planted and earth should be mounded to protect emerging shoots of early potatoes to protect from frosts.  Greenhouses should be made ready to plant tomatoes and cucumbers, plant out sweet peas, sow parsley and begonia tubers can be started off if your greenhouse is heated. Lawns should be mown each week now, new lawns can be sown and turf laid (seed is much cheaper).

Laleston Gardening Club will be the venue for Kevin Thomas of Cardiff Parks & Gardens to demonstrate the planting of hanging baskets for wonderful displays on the 17th April at 7.30pm. All Members welcome! £1 on the door.  Can we wish everyone a Happy Easter and Happy Gardening.

Susan Ford

What’s on

PORTHCAWL U3A

Is an organisation for people no longer in fulltime employment who want to keep socially, physically and academically active. We have over forty groups. Website: porthcawlu3a. org.uk. 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 £28. 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, Vice Chairman: terrypaulthomas1962@ gmail.com. Tel: 07577 406605.

LEARN TO ROCK N ROLL 50S STYLE

Every Monday evening at Royal British Legion, Pyle, Bridgend, CF33 6AE. 7.30pm till 10pm. Entrance £5. Contact Frank on 07400 080101.

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

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. Rehersals Tuesday & Friday evening 7-9 pm at Arlington Road Church, Arlington 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.

YOGA WITH MICHELE

@ Kenfig Nature Reserve. Mixed ability class - 9.30am till 11am - £36 for 4 weeks. Zoom also available plus a recording of the session if you miss a week. To book contact: Michele –07793 544956 or email michele@ michelelambertyoga.co.uk Head to www.michelelambertyoga.co.uk for further info on all Michele offers.

WEDNESDAY

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.

KAG GLASS SPLASHBACKS

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 7.30pm. Beginners and visitors welcome. We have tuition, demonstrations and social events. See our Facebook page or call Alison on 07581 048448.

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

Trinity Church, John Street 9.30am. Contact Millie - 07765 040006.

THURSDAY

BRIDGEND MALE CHOIR

Do you enjoy singing? The Choir Practice, 7.30 – 9.30 pm 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 Dave Deeley 07799 616120 or www.bridgendmalechoir.co.uk. Motto - Friendship through Music.

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 9.30am and 5.30pm.

Contact Millie: 07765 040006.

SOCIAL TABLE TENNIS

Join a mix of fun and non-league competitive women and men for 2 hours playing ping pong at Kenfig Table Tennis Club located upstairs at Lasers Are Us on Kenfig Industrial Estate. Starts at 4:30pm

FRIDAY

SLIMMING WORLD, PORTHCAWL

Trinity Church, John Street 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 Nottage Scout Hall (The Precinct, by the Seagull pub), Porthcawl, CF36 3RF. Visit: www.porthcawlorchestra. co.uk to find out more.

WEDNESDAY 12TH APRIL

BRIDGEND SOROPTIMISTS SUPPER MEETING

Supper meeting 75th Anniversary Celebration at Heronston Hotel Bridgend at 6.30pm.

For more info visit: www.facebook.com/BridgendSoroptimists http://sigbi.org/bridgend-and-district/ New Members welcome. Wednesday 26th April - AGM at Heronston Hotel Bridgend 7pm

SUNDAY 30TH APRIL

PORTHCAWL COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA

10TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT

Time: 16:30 – 18:30.

Join us at All Saints Church, Victoria Avenue, Porthcawl for a special concert to celebrate 10 years of PCO. We’re thrilled to be joined by guest vocalist Kat Jones as we perform a varied programme, reflective of our collective journey over the last decade. There will be something for everyone of all ages and tastes. Doors open at 16:00, the concert will run from 16:30 – 18:30. Tickets are £10 on the door (under 13s free). Light refreshments will be served.

If you would like your child to learn important lifesaving 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, basic lifesaving skills, surf and beach sports such as wading, surf swimming, board paddling, beach flags, beach sprints and relays.

Nippers train indoors at Pyle pool throughout the year, and at Rest Bay beach during the summer months.

Nippers are able to obtain various surf safety awards, and are taught valuable lifesaving and safety skills at both the beach and the pool.

Recycling everything Metal Do you have any of the following items that you no longer need? Washing machines, tumble dryers, cookers or any type of metal or electrical items, bric a brac. Along with postage stamps, foreign or old coins.

Now collecting bric a brac & clothes again All of the above items will be used to help S.C B.U. (Special Care Baby Unit) at the Princess of Wales Hospital Bridgend. Please telephone/text Steve on: 07734 264732 Photographic I.D. carried at all times.

Clear Out 4 You

•Rubbish removal service (Waste carrier license cbdu1736)

•Fast and reliable house clearance specialists

•Quality unwanted items bought

Professional company that clears houses, garages, gardens and o ces

Paint2Perfection

The professional painting and decorating service

trade All aspects of interior and exterior work undertaken

• Painting, glossing and papering

• Woodwork and staining

• Hall, stairs and landing a speciality

Call Dale on 01656 742157 or 07891 729413 for a no obligation, free quotation.