PORTHCAWL & BRIDGEND EDITION
ESTABLISHED 1998
ISSUE 287 DECEMBER 2023
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CONTENTS
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LETTERS................................................. 8-9 PUZZLES.................................................. 12 PROPERTY............................................... 13 BOOKS...................................................... 15 PHOTOGRAPHS.............................. 16-23 ARTS................................................... 24-25 POEMS..................................................... 26 SCHOOLS.......................................... 28-31 NEWS................................................. 32-33 FEATURES......................................... 34-38 HISTORY................................................... 41 HEALTH.............................................. 42-43 FINANCE............................................ 44-45 LEGAL................................................. 46-47 GARDEN & NATURE....................... 48-49 WHATS ON........................................ 52-56 SPORT & SEA.................................... 57-59 TIDES.................................................. 59-60 DIRECTORY............................................. 62
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DEADLINE DATE FOR THE JANUARY 2024 ISSUE IS: SUNDAY 10TH DECEMBER
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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.
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seaside news | 7
LETTERS MISLEADING LETTER
LOOK OF LOVE Dear Editor, Please share this photo in the Seaside News. A great grandfathers look of love - 85 years difference! Mary EmmentLewis, Porthcawl
Dear Editor, I refer to the letter from Keith Edger regarding the ‘closure of public footpaths to Sker Beach’ published in your November edition. This letter is somewhat misleading and factually incorrect. Pyle and Kenfig Golf Club applied for planning permission to redevelop its practice area and the consultants who made the application on the clubs behalf incorrectly stated that the club owned this land rather than leased it from Kenfig Corporation Trust. This error was picked up by the planning officer dealing with the application before it was accepted and the required notices were served on the trust as required to acknowledge this fact. The original planning application also included the replacement of a two bay driving net steel structure with a new three bay facility. This was moved to a slightly different position within the application area and amended details were requested by the planning officer which were submitted and approved as a non-material amendment. The original application clearly identified the presence of the bridleway adjacent to the practice area in the submitted planning statement and confirmed that there was no intention to change, divert or impact on any public right of way. I can assure your readers that the golf club is not involved in any discussions with Bridgend Council to close this bridleway or any footpaths that cross the golf course as may be inferred from this letter. Simon Howell, Pyle and Kenfig Captain
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THANK YOU SAVIOURS Dear Editor, On 24th October 2023,I was walking in Porthcawl before the Pavilion; when I tripped, fell over my walker and banged my head on the uneven pavement .My companion hurt her foot whilst attempting to prevent my fall. To our immediate rescue came Sophie and Ivor, who escorted us to our nearby homes to ensure our safe return. Sophie also offered advice on how to treat our scrapes and bruises. Many thanks to our two saviours! Mair Thomas, Porthcawl
ST. CLARE’S 1972/1974 LEAVERS 50TH ANNIVERSARY Dear Editor, We are proposing to hold a gathering for pupils who left the 5th form in 1972 and the 6th form in 1974 in October 2024 as it will be our 50 years since we said goodbye to our school years at St. Clare’s. WHEN? Saturday 12th October 2024. WHERE? The Atlantic Hotel. WHAT? A lunchtime buffet which will cost approximately £15 including tea and coffee, but drinks will be extra. We would love to see as many of our schoolmates as possible to talk about past times and a catch up. If you think you would like to join us please show initial interest by emailing us at stclaresconvent.50@gmail.com Information also on St. Clare’s Facebook page. Julie North Elisa Bertorelli Mary-Jane Taylor
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KITCHEN & BATHROOM DESIGN & FITTING SERVICE NOW AVAILABLE Dear Editor, I wanted to write in to express my gratitude to everyone who contributed to the Porthcawl Christmas Project 2023 by donating to the Bridgend Foodbank. The response from our local community and primary schools was overwhelming and I am so grateful for all the people who supported this years’ project. Thank you! Every year I continue to be blown away with the generosity, kindness and willingness to donate. It was a group effort and the sense of community spirit was fantastic. It made me so proud to be part of such a wonderful town. After the collection, the food donations were taken to the foodbank in Bridgend where the food was weighed and then sorted by the volunteers, before being distributed around the local borough in time for Christmas. A special thank you to Hollie Gaynor, Stephanie Bayliss and Cassie Jones for helping me sort all the addresses and collecting all the donations in the pouring rain! I honestly would not have been able to do it without you. This year we also had a very special helper, Niamh, age 6, who collected with her mum, Hollie. Lastly and certainly not least, a huge thank you to Tricia Davies, the manager of Bridgend Foodbank, for all her support in collecting our donations. Tricia also liaised with the local primary schools to talk about all the wonderful work that happens at the Bridgend Foodbank. If you would like further information about the foodbank please telephone 01656 762800. Or go online for further information https://bridgend.foodbank.org.uk Thank you everyone, and Merry Christmas! Lucy Bevington, Porthcawl
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seaside news | 11
PUZZLES
Puzzle solution: Puzzle # 6216 Oct-21-2023
Sudoku
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.
Daily sudoku puzzle # 6247 Nov-20-2023
6 9
4
7
3
5
1
9
4
8
2
1
5
8
7
4
2
9
3
6
4 8 2 3 5 7
2 9 3 6 8 1 4
4 1 5 7 6 9 2
3 2 6 9 4 8 1
8 5 7 3 2 6 9
6 8 1 4 7 3 5
4
3
2
1
8 5 7 3
4 1 9 2 6
3
Word Search
Hint: Words can be found horizontally, vertically, diagonally and also backwards.
9 5 1 4 8
6 2 5
8
3
7
4
6
8
4 2 7
6
3
8
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Page 1/2
12 | seaside news
2
7
7
7
1
9
6
5
November Answers
5
5
1
7
5 6
6 9
www.sudokukingdom.com
Find names of 11 Popular Christmas Foods: STUFFING - FRUITCAKE - GOOSE - HAM - DUCK - EGGNOG - CANDY CANE MINCE PIES - TURKEY - YULE LOG - PUDDING
PROPERTY WHAT EXACTLY IS MODERN METHOD OF AUCTION & IS IT SUITABLE FOR ME? A few years ago if you asked a home mover what they thought of the modern method of auction they wouldn’t have been able to tell you, in fact if you asked the Estate Agent, they probably couldn’t have told you either yet more Agents are offering this method of sale to their clients so it is important to understand exactly what it is and who is benefiting. To put it simply the modern method of auction is a selling process that combines elements of both traditional auction and private treaty. Unlike traditional auction where the winning bidder is legally bound, the modern method sees the winning bidder pay a sizable non- refundable deposit which then enters them into a reservation agreement which grants the buyer exclusivity while they complete due diligence and finalise the purchase. The transaction is similar to the exchange of contracts in a traditional sale but provides a fixed timeframe for completion, adding certainty to the process for both parties. So Who Does it Benefit? As long as the modern method of auction is suitable for the Seller then it can provide benefits to everyone involved. Sellers can achieve a fair market price as the bidding process encourages competitive offers and the fall through rate is typically sub 3% compared to private treaty that sees up to 33% of sales agreed fall through. For buyers, the method offers a transparent buying process, allowing them to bid on properties without the pressure of a live auction. The key to this method of sale is being able to sell your property with no on going
chain, if you are in an onward chain then the time frames will probably not work for you. Of course with the additional fees that the buyers pay it means that the sellers do not typically pay any Estate Agency fees which of course is appealing to sellers but does price out some buyers who don’t have or don’t want to pay an additional 3-5% of the property value in reservation fees. The ultimate advantage to the modern method of auction is that the sale typically completes between 50-70 days after sale is agreed which contrasts with the 120 days average private treaty is seeing at the moment. So whilst Modern Method of Auction is not for everyone, it does have its place in the market and will become more widespread in the future. TERENCE MCHATTON MARLA MNAEA McHattons Estate Agents 01656 331577
Deadline date for the January 2024 issue is: SUNDAY 10TH DECEMBER
McHattons Estate Agents are delighted to support local Welsh medium school Ysgol Y Ferch O'r Sger by donating five wiggle cars for the Nursery class & chocolate selection boxes for Christmas Fayre.
T: 01656 331 577 www.Mchattons.co.uk
info@mchattons.co.uk
Now open on Lias Road, Porthcawl seaside news | 13
Richard & Sarah Mustoe Independent Funeral Directors
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Address: 75 New Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DH (opposite Griffin Park) Tel: 01656 783699 Day or Night For further information on the services we provide visit www.porthcawlfuneralservices.co.uk or find us on Facebook Garage Doors Repaired | Seaside News 2022 | Half Page.pdf
1
19/10/2022
13:40
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Garage Doors Repaired Ltd Village Farm Industrial Estate, Pyle CF33 6BJ
BOOKS BOOK OF THE MONTH THE DRIFT by C J Tudor
NEW BOOKS AT PORTHCAWL LIBRARY THE FAKE WIFE FICTION Sharon Bolton
During a deadly snowstorm, Hannah awakens to carnage, all mangled metal and shattered glass. Evacuated from a secluded boarding school, her coach careered off the road, trapping her with a handful of survivors. Meg awakens to a gentle rocking. She’s in a cable car stranded high above snowy mountains, with five strangers and no memory of how they got on board. Carter is gazing out of the window of an isolated ski chalet that he and his companions call home. As their generator begins to waver in the storm, the threat of something lurking in the chalet’s depths looms larger. Outside, the storm rages. Inside one group, a killer lurks. But which one? And who will make it out alive?
THE SECRET Lee Child
CHRISTMAS HOURS
HUW BEATTY TV, AERIALS & S AT E L L I T E DIGITAL AERIALS FREESAT DISHES STORM DAMAGE REPAIRS
THE GREAT DECEIVER Elly Griffiths THE EDGE David Baldacci THE EXCHANGE John Grisham ALEX CROSS MUST DIE James Patterson THE FIRST 48 HOUR Simon Kernick DIAMOND PROMISES Anna Jacobs MIDNIGHT AT THE CHRISTMAS BOOKSHOP Jenny Colgan
REBELLION Simon Scarrow
NON FICTION MY NAME IS BARBRA Barbra Streisand NORMAL WOMEN: 900 YEARS OF MAKING HISTORY Philippa Gregory THE CHATEAU – FOREVER HOME Dick & Angel Strawbridge IN MY STRIDE Helen Skelton RUGBY LIVES Simon Thomas
KATE BLADON Facebook: PorthcawlLibrary Tel: 01656 754845 | 01656 754850 Email: porthcawl.library@awen-wales.com pyle.library@awen-wales.com
I N S TA L L AT I O N S & R E PA I R S
Porthcawl Library will be closed from 5pm on Saturday 23rd December and will reopen on Tuesday 2nd January at 9.30am. We would like to wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
RESURRECTION WALK Michael Connelly
CLIVE CUSSLER’S THE CORSICAN SHADOW Dirk Cussler
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YEARS
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seaside news | 15
PHOTOGRAPHS BIRD HATH FLOWN
STORMY DOWN WIND TURBINE
Anthony Callaghan, Porthcawl Geoff Henderson, Porthcawl
RAINBOW OVER SKER
SUNSET OVER TRECCO BAY
Robert Evans, Kenfig Hill
Alan Thomas, Bridgend
RIVER EWENNY
TALBOT MEMORIAL PARK
Alun Betty, Bridgend
Judith Holden, Porthcawl
16 | seaside news
Email us your pictures info@seasidenews.co.uk
AUTUMN IS HERE
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seaside news | 17
PHOTOGRAPHS THE WILDERNESS
CATTLE AT PENCOED COMMON
Sandra Beer, Porthcawl
OCTOBER LIGHT
Mark Greenslade, Porthcawl
PORTHCAWL SEAFRONT
Judith Holden, Porthcawl
LLWYN-YOY POND, HENSOL
Mark Greenslade, Porthcawl 18 | seaside news
Daniel Ryan, Porthcawl
Email us your pictures info@seasidenews.co.uk
REFLECTION
WINTER WATERS NEWTON
Josh Lia, Porthcawl
Pippa Glover (age 11), Porthcawl
We wish our old and new customers a Merry Christmas
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seaside news | 19
Est. 2008
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Opulent bathrooms. Luxurious gifts. At Bathrooms of Cowbridge we are best known for crafting bespoke bathrooms, tailored to our clients individual tastes. But we also sell a range of luxurious bathroom accessories and toiletries from our showroom too - which would make a perfect Christmas gift for anyone! Come down to our showroom on the High Street in Cowbridge to see the range of gifts available.
20 | seaside news
PHOTOGRAPHS
Email us your pictures info@seasidenews.co.uk
YELLOW POPLAR TREE AT PENYFAI
THE SEAFRONT
Pat Lathey, Penyfai
Sandra Beer, Porthcawl
RHOSSILI, GOWER
MARGAM LAKE
Sandra Beer, Porthcawl
Catherine Tanner BMus(Hons) ARCM
PIANO LESSONS *Beginners up to Diploma level * 25 years teaching experience * Progress through ABRSM Grades, or just for fun! * All ages welcome
Kelvin Vincent, Pyle
(01656) 782946 07779 555312
ADVERTISE HERE Email us: info@seasidenews.co.uk seaside news | 21
PHOTOGRAPHS SUNRISE
CONEY BEACH
Alan Thomas, Bridgend
JOHN STREET
Judi Russell, North Cornelly
PAXTON TOWER LLANARTHNEY
Daniel Ryan, Porthcawl
AUTUMNAL NEWTON BEACH
John Osborne, Porthcawl 22 | seaside news
Pat Thomas, Porthcawl
Email us your pictures info@seasidenews.co.uk
CHRISTMAS AT MARGAM PARK
MISTY MORNING MEMORIES
Andrew Giles, Kenfig Hill
John Loveluck, Aberkenfig
100% Director - Michelle Evans
273 New Road, Porthcawl, CF36 5BG 01656 788883 WWW.RIVERSIDEFUNERALSERVICE.CO.UK
seaside news | 23
ARTS KENFIG HILL & DISTRICT MVC
years Remembrance Service at All Saint’s church. Being able to show gratitude to those who have served and lost their lives protecting our freedom is privilege for the choir. Following the generosity of Rupert and Sarah Thurston with support from James Lott who provided funds for a defibrillator, several choristers were trained up in its use and in CPR. Thanks for your continued support. Ian Williams 07927 219544 contact@pothcawlmalechoir.co.uk
PYLE & PORTHCAWL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY The success of our autumn concert, featuring the Maesteg Gleemen and introducing the amazing Rachel Starritt (pictured above) as our new piano accompanist increased our social media recognition tenfold as the stats went through the roof on our Facebook account. Rachel’s musical accolades are too many to mention but in short she trained with Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, completed a six month placement at the Conservatori Liceu in Barcelona and has also enjoyed numerous masterclasses with a vast number of Europe’s most treasured professional pianists. So what’s coming up? Were singing at Llandaff Cathedral for the Emergency Services Carol Service on December 7th. Anwen Angharad Dixon will be joining us again as a solo soprano and the fact that Anwen is also a serving Police Officer adds an extra layer of significance to the evening, highlighting the diverse talents and roles we have within our community. Also, our Christmas concert at Pisgah Chapel is on December 18th. We’ll be showcasing the talents of children from four local schools that will make for a warm, festive and communityoriented event that offers free entry to all. For further information, please contact: Paul Butterworth, Social Media Manager. 07813 128060 Paulbutterworth1@btinternet.com
PORTHCAWL MALE CHOIR The festive season is now upon us, and the choir is working very hard preparing for an extremely busy programme. The main public performance this year is our Christmas Concert at All Saint’s Church on Saturday 9th December at 7pm. Tickets £7.00 available at the door or via any of the choristers. Again, we have some wonderful young artists joining us on the night. A great opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit. We promise you a free mince pie, provided you join in on the singing! We are also so pleased to be invited by the Town Council to sing at the bandstand in town on Saturday 2nd December when there will be a Victorian Christmas shopping evening and switching on of the Christmas lights. Pop along and see us. The choir was once again honoured to be invited to sing at this 24 | seaside news
We recently held our annual Dennis Lines Memorial Competition, expertly judged by Rob Greenhill from the Rhondda. It was a very close battle in which Howard Evans was the overall winner. Congratulations Howard. 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 Geoff Baker Internal Competition Secretary
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LALESTON What’s going on live at Xmas? The Green Acre, Cornelly – if I know landlord Mike – will have some good tribute acts, and so too will Porthcawl’s Hi Tide. Still in Porthcawl, The Picton has their regular jam nights on Tuesdays and acoustic evenings on Thursdays so well done to Mark Jones and host Amanda for supporting live music. Duo Calon (Mark and Melanie) hold their great Open Mic every Thursday at The Rock, so bring your guitar. Live band nights are at The Marine (Fridays) and The Royal Oak (Sundays). The Buccaneer also has plenty of weekend fun, too. Gary has some interesting artistes booked, so give it a visit. In Bridgend it’s nice to see Kerry Thomas doing well in The Riverside Tavern. Kerry used to run the legendary Apollo Club so go and check the pub out, fab fun and the beer is cheap, too. Make sure you check all venues’ Facebook sites for more information. Finally, if you do want a selfie with me, I’ll be joining in the fun in Porthcawl town for the Xmas Festival, Saturday 2nd December, 11.00am to 6.00pm with music, choirs and Santa turning the lights on at 4.45pm. See you there, and Merry Xmas and Happy New Year. Stag Marks Tel: 07549 728356 Photo: Stag
CÔR BRO OGWR CELEBRATES Côr Bro Ogwr celebrates 25 years… and going strong! On the 20th October Côr Bro Ogwr celebrated its 25th anniversary with a dinner at The Bear Hotel, Cowbridge. A mixed, four-part choir, it is one of the largest choral societies in Wales, numbering over 70 members. The 25th anniversary dinner was a celebration of the wide range of music it has performed over the years, the very talented musical directors and soloists with whom it has worked, and the strong community it has built. Côr Bro Ogwr’s annual Christmas concert will take place on Saturday, 16th December, at 7.00 at All Saints’ Church, Porthcawl. The choir will perform a rich and varied programme of Christmas music under the baton of its musical director, Ben Pinnow. The centerpiece of the concert will be Benjamin Britten’s A Ceremony of Carols, first sung in London in 1943. There will also be opportunities, as always, for the audience to join in some favourite carols! The choir will be accompanied by Angharad Edwards on harp and Laura Deenik on piano. Tickets are £12 at the door, from choristers, or on 01656 653326. Côr Bro Ogwr is always eager to recruit new singers - all voices, all ages, and no auditions. Rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings, 7.00 - 9.00 pm in Tabernacle Church, Derwent Rd, Bridgend. Visit our website: www.cor-bro-ogwr.com or come along to a Wednesday evening rehearsal. Judith Fabian
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POEMS IT WAS A GREEN AND PLEASANT LAND From rolling hills to mist-covered moors, a tapestry of beauty to explore, Whispering breezes, gentle and kind, embraced the land, with love entwined. Lush meadows swept in elegant flow, and wildflowers danced in vibrant glow, In that realm of enchantment, we did stand, oh, what was a green and pleasant land. Majestic trees, tall and proud, their emerald canopy formed a shroud, A symphony of birdsong filled the air, filling every heart with awe and care. Crystal-clear rivers, meandering through, reflecting a sky of eternal blue, Their gentle murmur so serenely grand, in that once green and pleasant land. Then man came with his restless stride, and nature’s subtle balance was denied. He hacked and slashed, with all his might, left scars upon this wondrous sight. A tale of destruction, the oceans betrayed, as man’s errant hand upon them laid. The forests destroyed by greedy hands, in what was once a green and pleasant land. The meadows that danced with colour and grace, now barren wastelands, a desolate space. Birds no longer soar across the sky, their melodies silenced by man’s grasping eye. Rivers once clear, vibrant and alive, now stained and dead by man’s careless drive, Can we not see the damage of man’s demand, on what was once a green and pleasant land. Claudette Evans, Kenfig Hill
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26 | seaside news
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LET ME WALLOW IN IT
PLEASURE
Flip-flop, it’s that sound again, It really won’t go away, I’m dragging my feet, Cos I’m in a bad mood, It’s been a horrible day!
A bottle of Vimto And a still-warm pasty; Easy picnic On an empty beach: Watch the tide Falling away, Quietly, Slowly.
Thump-thump, you’re making it worse, I’ve now got an ache in my head. I won’t cheer up yet, I want to be sad, I’m going to go to my bed. Thud, thud, I hear steps on the stairs, Just leave me alone I shout, I’m really fine, So go back down, Tomorrow I will be up and about! At last some peace, No more flop, thump or thud, I think I’ll just watch some TV, It’s just for today, That I’m being a grump, Let me wallow in my misery. Marilyn Cook, Bridgend
OUR TOWN The green grass of home, still as green as ever, Our much loved old town is sadly not the same. Those familiar streets are all still there But it is now a town only in name. Not so long ago it was thriving, Now the streets are mostly bare. Like an old discarded manikin With no more clothes to wear. So many shops have closed down, Well known names we shan’t see again. Leaving empty, dreary shop doorways For some to shelter from rain. I remember the town in its heyday, Its lovely old buildings were still in their place. Quite literally, it has had its heart ripped out And is in danger of losing its face. If there is such a thing as progress now, Then let’s hope that the ‘powers that be’, Improve and make change for the better, For the likes of all town folk…and me. Catherine Millard Payne, Bridgend
Then wander through The dunes with nature’s tunes Drifting on a soft sea breeze:Birdsong, breaking waves And a rustling In the shoreline shrubs. A sandy path To Kenfig PoolSee silvery fish Tamely leaping To the torment Of the twisting Arctic Terns. Find the bird-watching hide With its timeworn benches: Bearing witness And comfort To grandfathers and theirs Before them… Fondest of memories: Real times shared In quiet admiration Of natural wonders, Sheltered from Worldly anxieties. Paul Jenkins, Cardiff
SMILE The very best gift I ever got is your smile It’s the Best of your assets in your profile It’s infectious but gone viral now Whole world is laughing in a spiral now Please keep it like that so I can feel all the happiness around You are my heaven on the ground Keep smiling and smiling my love As it’s peaceful and charming like Mona Lisa or above My each day is brighten with your laughter There is nothing better I can wish After Dr Nadeem Iqbal, Bridgend
Supporting people with life limiting and life changing conditions The Sandville Self Help Foundation is a charity overlooking the Porthcawl coastline. You can meet people from across Wales who are going through similar experiences. It is a safe place where you can make positive changes to your physical, psychological and emotional well-being. We offer set days for specific conditions and would like to offer a warm welcome to those individuals who have been diagnosed with life limiting and life changing conditions including but NOT limited to:
Parkinson’s
Tuesdays 9am - 4pm
Cancers
Wednesdays 10am - 4pm
The trained and experienced team at the Sandville Self Help Foundation aim to: • Provide individuals and family members with an opportunity to meet and give mutual support around a diagnosis and treatment. • Provide an opportunity for individuals to attend sessions within the Gym & Mobility Suite and Wellbeing Studio including Yoga, Relaxation, Tai Chi, Pilates, Chair Exercises, Circuits and Sandville’s Parkinson’s Warrior Classes. • Provide individuals with an opportunity to use the Hydrotherapy Pool to assist in rehabilitation, improving mobility and maximising independence. • Provide individuals with an opportunity to access Complementary Therapies including Reflexology, Reiki, Acupuncture and Hypnotherapy used in the management of pain, anxiety, difficulty in sleeping and more. • Provide hairdressing and beauty advice pre and post chemotherapy and other treatments. • Provide safe access to our Sensory Garden and gardening opportunities. • Share practical information and signpost to other support services.
Multiple Sclerosis, Motor Neurone Disease, Muscular Dystrophy, Stroke, Brain Injuries, Complex Pain, Respiratory Conditions & more
Thursdays 10am - 4pm
Dementia & Frail Older Person’s Cafe
Fridays 11am - 2pm
Please contact the Sandville Self Help Foundation for more information on any of our services.
You don’t need an appointment or a referral, we will assess your needs and offer services to those who meet the charity’s criteria. We do not receive any government funding and rely on your generous donations.
Follow us on our socials!
www.sandville.org.uk info@sandville.org.uk
01656 743344
Sandville Court, Kenfig, Bridgend CF33 4PU
@SandvilleSelfHelpFoundation
Registered charity no: 517899
seaside news | 27
SCHOOLS ACTION-PACKED AUTUMN AT WEST PARK!
Year 6 visited Llangrannog. They developed team building skills and grew in confidence and independence – all set for their final year of primary education. We embedded our themes with Hook days and trips. We visited Big Pit for an immersive experience of life in the coal mines and St Fagan’s to follow the life of a Victorian school child. Children used their new knowledge to write letters in the style of Lord Shaftesbury, design art in the style of Gilbert & Sullivan, reenact a Victorian classroom using green screen, create toys and build dormitories using den building equipment! We used our pupil voice to elect new committees. School Council put their community outreach skills to use, organising a harvest collection for Bridgend Foodbank. Eco Warriors ran our sustainable wardrobe enabling families to ‘shop’ nearly new uniform and year 6 ran our Eco Green Leaf shop to encourage plastic free choices. Teachers went the extra mile to deliver an exciting and interactive curriculum. We enjoyed welcoming all our families for open afternoons and workshops. Currently, we are enthusiastically rehearsing for Christmas concerts and planning more opportunities to engage with families in the new year. Nadolig Llawen! Mrs Morgan West Park Primary Tel: (01656) 815510
NEWTON PRIMARY NEWS
As part of our time machine topic, we went back to the decade where pop music began, to host a 1960’s talent show and disco. The children showed they were able to work effectively as part of a team to produce their own show in which they performed, presented, judged, and advertised their event. They even engineered their own sounds. We are very proud of them! They have also taken part in the Screen for school’s programme where we have participated in six online lessons on how to create an original film based on a time traveller. We have 28 | seaside news
partnered with professionals from the industry giving advice on all aspects including special FX and makeup. As part of Anti-bullying Week, we all wore odd socks to school! Dosbarth Sandy Bay embraced the day with some very funky socks! They were sad to hear that our class mascot was feeling upset because his friends were making fun of his blue fur! So, they decided to make him a colourful friend to show him that it’s ok to be yourself. They all agreed, “it would be boring if we were all the same!’” If you would like to make an appointment for a visit, please call us on 01656 815780 or email admin.newtonps.bridgend.cymru, or alternatively take a look at our Facebook page; Newton Primary School -Porthcawl and website www.newtonprimary.co.uk TEAM NEWTON
SEND US YOUR SCHOOL ARTICLE - IT’S FREE TO PUBLISH Email: info@seasidenews.co.uk PORTHCAWL COMPREHENSIVE NEWS
As I write we are preparing for our School Christmas Dinner, our Annual Carol Concert at All Saints Church and a number of community activities coordinated by our Wellbeing Ambassadors. We are excited about our school production of Jekyll & Hyde at the Grand Pavilion on 24th – 27th January. It will be the 45th production in our school history and preparations and rehearsals are underway. A special thank you to the cast and staff - your hard work and effort has not gone unnoticed. For information and ticket sales please contact the Box Office on 01656 815995 or www.awenboxoffice.com. In November, the school was full as we held our Year 6 Open Evening. It was lovely to welcome so many Year 6 pupils and their families. We look forward to working with you this academic year as we prepare for September 2024. On the 9th of November, in partnership with Porthcawl’s Community First Responders we held a 12 hour ‘CPRathon Challenge’ to raise money towards a new defibrillator. In preparation we held CPR training for the whole school and the charity event consisted of 12 hours of continuous CPR; pupils, staff and several community organisations took part between 9am-9pm, well done everyone! In addition, our Sixth Former have raised lots of additional money through or Annual Charity Week. I wish you all a wonderful Christmas. Mr Stephens, Head Teacher
Email us your report to: info@seasidenews.co.uk
NEWYDDION YSGOL Y FERCH O’R SGÊR
ST CLARE’S SCHOOL NEWS
Christmas is well underway with rehearsals for our school concerts in full swing! We are also practising carols to sing with Afon-y-Felin and Corneli Primary in the Kenfig Hill Male Voice Choir concert at Pisgah Chapel on 18th December. We are very much looking forward to this. We have had visitors galore this term and welcomed Dŵr Cymru who held a whole school assembly and workshops on saving water. Fireworks night and Diwali tasks have been completed across the school, with many opportunities for cross-curricular activities in line with the new Curriculum for Wales. The school have received a very kind donation from McHattons Sales, Lettings and Auctions – a new business in the centre of Porthcawl. Thank you very much for the 5 wiggle bikes and the many selection boxes gifted to us. We are all very grateful and looking forward to using the bikes during outdoor learning sessions. We welcomed St Clare’s at the beginning of this half term to participate in netball and football matches. Thank you for attending. We are accepting pre-nursery children for afternoon sessions from January 2024. If you would like further details, contact 01656 754865 or admin@yfos.pen-y-bont.cymru
It’s been another busy autumn term, jam-packed with inspiring lessons, exciting extra-curricular activities, sporting fixtures and brilliant trips! Our ‘Senior Discovery Day’ was an outstanding success. It’s crucial to prepare pupils for the important step up to Year 7 so it was a brilliant opportunity for Year 6s to experience a whole day in the senior school, getting to know a new environment and learning new subjects like Spanish, French, Physics, Chemistry and Biology. At St Clare’s we balance the academics with a wide-ranging extra-curricular programme and outstanding pastoral care. We know high-quality early education provision is essential to your child’s development, so our deliberately smaller classes ensure teachers can give your child the time, individual attention, academic support and stretch to achieve their full potential. Our Nursery and Prep pupils love their weekly onsite Forest School. We offer a more traditional education with daily reading, handwriting, Spanish/French, weekly spellings, times tables and regular homework. If you missed our A-Level Options Evening, you can still book a private tour. Come and find out why St Clare’s Sixth Form is in the top 5% of top-performing schools for A-Level performance since 2018. Call 01656-789966 or visit www.stclares-school.co.uk Picture caption: Be You Brilliantly at St Clare’s School
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30 | seaside news
SCHOOLS CYNFFIG COMPREHENSIVE NEWS
This month we were delighted to welcome BBC Bitesize with Sam MacGregor from Radio 1. Along with a panel from different occupations, they discussed careers and aspirations. Our Year 10 Peace Ambassadors joined over a hundred other young people at the Welsh Centre for International Affairs. Together they looked at ways to promote peace within our communities. Year 9 Seren pupils developed their debating skills along with other pupils in the borough. They’ve been getting ready for a competition that culminates at Jesus College in Oxford. During Anti Bullying week we celebrated diversity by wearing odd socks to signify the beauty of being unique. We raised money for ‘Children in Need’ by staging the Masked Singer featuring Cynffig staff and put on our best Christmas Jumpers for ‘Save the Children’.
Email us your report to: info@seasidenews.co.uk In sport, we welcome Tommy Barnes WRU Hub Officer. Our rugby and netball teams have gone from strength to strength with record breaking participants and wins! Well done to you all. The month ended with our community Christmas Concert at St Theodore’s church. There were spectacular performances from our school choir, band, instrumentalists and drama group that truly captured the spirit of Christmas. May I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy healthy New Year. Hannah Castle Head Teacher
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NEWS INTRODUCTION
FIRE RESPONSE TIMES GETTING WORSE
Hello, I’m Chris. I’ve been the Labour MP for Ogmore since 2016. The Ogmore Constituency covers the north of Bridgend County Borough. We expect a General Election next year, and the Ogmore Constituency will merge with surrounding constituencies. You can find out more about the work I’ve done as MP via my website, www.ChrisElmore.wales I’m pleased to be the Welsh Labour Parliamentary Candidate for Bridgend and Porthcawl for the upcoming General Election. I’m proud to call Bridgend my home; it’s where I live with my wife and where our young son is growing up. Over the past seven years, I’ve worked hard for Ogmore by ensuring my constituents’ voices are heard in UK Parliament. As an MP, I have always focused on supporting and improving the lives of the constituents I represent. Your priorities will always come first. I’ve been out across Porthcawl & Bridgend recently, do look out for me over the coming weeks and months as we listen to your views on the doorstep. You’re also welcome to contact me by calling 07752 243418 or email me at Chris4bridgend@gmail. com. I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a restful and peaceful New Year!
I am concerned about a recent report into response times to emergencies from the South Wales Fire and Rescue service. This organisation, upon which we all depend for our safety, is suffering from a decline in the number of retained firefighters –these are the part time staff who have other full time jobs but who drop everything when the alarm goes off. Obviously, every minute is crucial but some stations operated by the brigade are finding it hard to respond in the time allocated because there are fewer firefighters on hand. The retained stations in Bridgend include Porthcawl, Kenfig Hill, Pontycymer, Ogmore Vale and Pencoed. Maesteg and Bridgend have full time crews but also depend for back-up on retained crews who are mobilised to provide cover. Staff argue that changes to working practices introduced by the service is the cause of many firefighters deciding to resign. Average response times now stand at 11 mins and 38 seconds for the more serious emergencies but there have been 387 incidents this year when it has taken more than 20 minutes for a fire engine to arrive. The implications of this are horrendous. I will be contacting fire chiefs on this issue.
CHRIS ELMORE MP FOR OGMORE Welsh Labour Parliamentary Candidate for Bridgend & Porthcawl www.ChrisElmore.wales
JAMIE WALLIS MP for Bridgend
HAVE YOU SEEN PROPOSALS FOR NEW COMMUNITY FACILITIES? I hope you have had a chance to look at the new concept designs for how public open space could be used in the Porthcawl waterfront area over the next few years, and what new community facilities may be developed as part of the town’s ongoing regeneration. The designs reflect the aims and objectives of Bridgend County Borough Council’s Placemaking Strategy for Porthcawl as well as feedback, suggestions and ideas that have been gathered through extensive public consultation with residents, visitors, school children, local groups and organisations. Following careful analysis, the views and ideas amassed from those sessions have been built into the concept design plans, and we are presenting them together with examples of existing facilities and regeneration carried out in other parts of the UK to provide an insight into how they could look here. While the proposals are dependent upon the availability of future funding sources, they also illustrate the council’s longterm ambitions for Porthcawl and our desire to work closely alongside local people as we seek to deliver a regeneration that is effective, realistic and sustainable. You can find out more online at www.bridgend.gov.uk, or by visiting Porthcawl Library where copies of the proposals are available to view. COUNCILLOR NEELO FARR Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Wellbeing Tel: 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk
HAVE YOUR SAY Email: info@seasidenews.co.uk
NEW THREAT TO PORTHCAWL TOURISM BUSINESSES Tourism operators in Porthcawl, and the rest of Wales, are faced with a new threat to their businesses. Apart from the new tourism tax, which Welsh Government is seeking to impose, owners of self-catering holiday lets are subject to new rules regarding the number of days a year that they have their properties let. The Welsh Labour Government and their Plaid Cymru allies have decided to increase the minimum number of days that these premises must be let from 70 to 182 days if they are to continue paying Business Rates. Those that fail to meet this new threshold could end up paying triple council tax which would make most of these small businesses unviable. A survey has found that 75 per cent of operators feel the higher level is unachievable especially once the new tourism tax on overnight stays is introduced, making Wales more expensive for holidaymakers than many other parts of the UK. There are real fears that this new rule will destroy the sector leading to the loss of jobs in seaside and rural areas. Porthcawl has many of these self lets so there is a lot at stake for the town. DR ALTAF HUSSAIN Regional Senedd Member
32 | seaside news
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NOMINATE A COMMUNITY HERO THIS CHRISTMAS If you are thinking of a surprise gift this Christmas and know someone who has made a positive difference to life in your community, why not nominate them for a Mayor’s Citizenship award? The awards are an annual opportunity to celebrate individuals, groups and organisations that make an outstanding contribution to life in Bridgend County Borough. Nominees must live or work locally and have demonstrated positive community values such as raising an outstanding amount for charity, performing an act of great bravery or regularly going the extra mile for others. Previous winners have ranged from the organiser of a baby loss support group to an electrician who installs community defibrillators free of charge. To take part, you can check eligibility criteria and complete an online form at the council’s website, or either download, complete and email the form to mayor@bridgend.gov.uk with ‘2023 Citizenship Award Nomination’ in the subject line, or download, print off and send the completed form to The Mayor’s Parlour, Mayor’s Citizenship Award Nomination, Civic Offices, Angel Street, Bridgend CF31 4WB. Nominations will close on Friday 12 January 2024. Can I also take this opportunity to wish all residents a very Merry Christmas, and a peaceful New Year – see you in 2024. COUNCILLOR HUW DAVID Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council Tel: 01656 643643
HELP SPREAD SOME CHRISTMAS CHEER FOR 2023 With Christmas around the corner despite the cost-of-living crisis continuing to make life difficult, volunteers based out of Talbot Community Centre in Kenfig Hill will once again be cooking and providing Christmas dinner for vulnerable residents. This will be the second time that we have done this after last year’s efforts helped to provide families and individuals in the Pyle, Cornelly, Kenfig Hill and Cefn Cribwr areas with a traditional Christmas dinner with all the frills. For 2023, we will be expanding the service to cover the entire county borough and will be seeking to support as many people as possible via a small army of fellow volunteers and community representatives. As chair of the Talbot Community Centre and the main cook for the event, I am looking forward to donning my kitchen whites and hair net once more. Ably supported by fellow ward members Huw David and Mike Kearn and with the valuable support of local businesses in place, we hope that this year will be even more successful, and will help vulnerable people to enjoy a merry Christmas. Donations of food and produce to support these efforts will 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
Based in Porthcawl, Bridgend, Nottage Forge has been creating quality commercial and domestic ironwork for decades. Skilled in bespoke steel fabrication, our experienced team creates items to your design specifications and is happy to provide free quotations across South Wales. Our work includes steel and composite gates, railings, balconies, fire escapes, and balustrades. We also create custom garden arches, furniture, and log holders.
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FEATURES
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KENFIG NATURE RESERVE: VOLUNTEERS
FRIENDS OF MONZE (ZAMBIA)
CHECKING THE MOTH TRAP
CUTTING REEDS Volunteers are essential to the management of the Nature Reserve. Two groups of volunteers meet every week, one on Wednesdays to help with monitoring and identification of species, and the other on Thursdays to carry out practical conservation tasks. The Wednesday group monitors moths, fungi and flowering plants, and during the summer months they carry out a weekly ‘butterfly transect’ which involves walking along a defined 3 mile route, counting all the butterflies seen. Mary, who has been helping with the surveys for over 10 years, says that butterfly numbers have declined in recent years, partly due, she believes, to a reduction in scrub clearance as a result of changes in the management of the Reserve. The grazing of cattle over a larger part of the Reserve will help to counteract this. The Thursday group carries out a range of practical work such as scrub removal , cutting back of reeds and invasive plants on the pool, and repairs to paths and boardwalks. New volunteers are always welcome. Anyone interested can contact Chris, the warden at warden@kenfignaturecorporation.com Santa at Kenfig: Santa will be coming to Kenfig Nature Reserve on Sunday December 17th, as part of our Christmas Market. Details on the Kenfig Nature Corporation Facebook Page.
34 | seaside news
We’re a Bridgend based charity (1154762) that aims to improve education, health and sustainable living in the poorest, remote areas of Monze. Water is a basic requirement, for a number of reasons: - to improve hygiene, hydration and general health for all villagers. - to make clay bricks and to mix with concrete and cement to build schools, teachers houses and toilets. - for watering permaculture fruit and nut trees, vegetables and particularly for new plants and trees to establish roots. Lack of a potable supply of water is a major issue in Monze. Some rural communities had NEVER had a clean supply of water. We have drilled or repaired 28 boreholes, in villages with broken boreholes and where our 15 new school buildings have been erected. The borehole is drilled 70 -100 metres deep. Unfortunately the accuracy of drilling is variable and expensive, around £1,000 for 70 metres. We use a Geophysicist to conduct a survey to decide where a borehole should be drilled but it is still not 100% successful. Divining with forked sticks or rods is still used and can be remarkably accurate. For more information contact us on Facebook or email deana. owen@friendsofmonze.org Belinda Green
THROUGH CHRISTIAN EYES A world in conflict needs to meet the Prince of Peace. Personality clashes, family arguments, terrorism and wars, our world is full trouble and strife. The problem is our selfish and aggressive human nature. There will be no peace in the world until there is peace within ourselves. There will be no peace in us until we are at peace with God At Christmas we hear of one promised to be a ‘Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace’. (Isaiah 9:6). This remarkable prophecy of Isaiah was fulfilled in the birth of Jesus Christ. His amazing life was completed by His dying for us on the cross, rising from the dead and ascending to heaven, promising to return and establish a kingdom of love and peace. Jesus said, ‘I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Are you looking for a real, deep and lasting peace? Then look into the life of Jesus Christ. Christmas is a great time to start. Come along to church and find out more. Rev. Martin Gillard BD MA Gilgal Baptist Church, Porthcawl
Cyrsiau achrededig am ddim neu â chymhorthdal mewn lleoliadau cymunedol. Free or subsidised accredited courses in community venues.
Celf a Chrefft Ieithoedd Sgiliau Gwaith a Bywyd
Arts & Crafts Languages Work & Life Skills Personal Development
Digital, IT & Technology Communication, Reading, Literacy , Numeracy
Datblygiad Personol Cysylltwch â ni Digidol, TG a Contact us Thechnoleg adultlearning@bridgend.gov.uk Cyfathrebu, Darllen, 01656 642746 Llythrennedd , Rhifedd seaside news | 35
FEATURES BRIDGEND SOROPTIMISTS MEET RNLI PORTHCAWL Bridgend Soroptimists recently enjoyed a festive Christmas Dinner at the Heronston Hotel followed by an interesting presentation from John and Ian, two members of Porthcawl Lifeboat team. They related the history of the Lifeboat movement from it’s inception in 1824 to the current day and highlighted the vital role the Porthcawl station plays in keeping the Community safe in the waters around the South Wales coastline. The club wished them well as they plan for their 200-year celebrations in March 2024. President Lesley Davies was delighted to be able to donate a contribution on behalf of the club members in support of the invaluable work done by all the crew. Follow us on www.facebook.com/BridgendSoroptimists. Meetings are held twice a month at the Heronston Hotel. New members welcome. Eileen Bayley Publicity Officer
THANK YOU LOPPER The Porthcawl Stroke Club would like to express our sincere gratitude to Lopper our Minibus driver for taking great care of the Stroke Club survivors, picking them up from their homes around the borough. Lopper went out of his way; some many times, throughout the years of serving the members. We now would like to take this opportunity to thank him for his wonderful service and wish him a Happy retirement. Enjoy your retirement Lopper! Keep travelling. From all the Porthcawl Stroke Club
MYNYDD CYNFFIG WI Talbot Center Kenfig Hill 2pm to 4pm that’s where you’ll find us laughing and talking as we once again meet for our monthly meeting. Despite the wind and rain we were in good spirits, we discussed WI matters and then organised our Christmas party, Enid once more has been press-ganged into entertainment organiser and our party wouldn’t be the same with out her efforts. Our book club, savings club, lunch club and walking clubs are all going strong and after tea or coffee and biscuits we settled down to listen to our speaker who was from Crime Stoppers and gave us a very informative talk and had several Community officers with her. The work they do with the police is excellent and reassuring. Next month Christmas Party time so have a great Christmas and we look forward to seeing any body that would like to pop in to meet us we’d love to meet you. Christine Callaghan 36 | seaside news
CHURCHES TOGETHER IN PORTHCAWL Churches Together are working in partnership with Sussed/ Sustainable Wales to organise litter picks on Coney Beach to complement the work of Keep Wales Tidy and the Captain Paul Watson Foundation. If you’re interested in joining us, please email markworrall90@gmail.com. On Saturday 2nd December, we will be one of several organisations to have a stall outside Sussed as part of the Christmas Festivities. Join us for some family fun making decorations from recycled materials! It’s been wonderful to see the church at Trecco Bay Caravan Park reopen this year. St Mary’s is in the care of Margam Ministry Area, and you’re warmly invited to join us for a carol service at 6pm on: Saturday 9th, Wednesday 13th, Saturday 16th, Wednesday 20th or Saturday 23rd December. Each year we hold events to mark the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, when different churches come together to consider how we respond to the needs of communities both locally and internationally. Join us for a special Unity Service at Our Lady Star of the Sea (New Road) on Sunday 21st January 2024 at 6.30pm – all are welcome. Nadolig Llawen a phob bendith i chi gyd. Mark Worrall
PORTHCAWL STROKE CLUB NEWS What a performance! A great singer, Mr Steve Greening sang some of Elvis songs, which were amazing! I absolutely loved the Gospel songs and he was enjoyed by everyone in the club. Wonderful entertainment. Mrs Pat Richards, gave us a very interesting talk on being frugal in Wartime and if applied today could help many people. Pat showed us an old recipe cookbook, which had belonged to Mr Colin Richards’ mother. Out of the recipe cookbook, Pat made a delicious vinegar cake, which was very light and enjoyed by all. Thank you, Pat., On the 12th of December 2023.The Porthcawl Male Voice choir, once again will hold their Annual Christmas Carol Service on behalf of the Porthcawl Stroke Club at the Grove Golf Club. Tickets are £7; available from Keith & Mary Duggan, telephone number (01656)773376 or 07484250988. Enjoy the Christmas spirit, it is hilarious! It is that time of the year, when would like to thank all our supporters for their help and generosity in keeping the Porthcawl Stroke Club running. On behalf of the Porthcawl Stroke Club members, we are sending you a Merry Christmas and a very Happy and Prosperous New Year ! Barbara Matthews
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INNER WHEEL
CAN YOU HELP?
We were pleased to welcome Chaplain Harriet ForwoodAndrews from the Salvation Army to our November meeting. She gave us a very interesting talk on her work with life-houses /hostels and the young people they accommodate and also the new age assessment house for migrants and refugees which opened in March. We were able to present her with a cheque before she left, which will help to make Christmas more enjoyable for some. The lavender bags for our 100 for 100 project are nearly finished and we would like to thank Jayne Booth for the offer of more lavender. We attended a fish and chip evening with Rotary, which was very enjoyable and are taking part in their Christmas Tree festival in December. Don’t forget to send your Christmas cards for CF36 3JH only through the Rotary Post before 15th December at the bargain price of 25p. Our next club meeting is at The Hi-Tide,12.30pm, on December 5th when we will have a Christmas lunch. If you think being in the Inner Wheel is something you would enjoy being a part of, please contact us, Liz Jones
Have you time to help charity Sustainable Wales with fundraising and grants, information research, project development or with digital skills? Our work is community based and can be replicated elsewhere. Current local themes are the regeneration of Porthcawl, climate talks and debates, ethical procurement, performance and open mics. https:// www.sustainablewales.org.uk/ (Work can be from home). Perhaps you have ideas for new projects? OR come and join our volunteers helping promote people and planet friendly goods at SUSSED, whilst also helping to support the work of the charity. Roles range from customer support, shop sales, street stalls; product information; stock ordering, accounts; PR, website help and events. People tend to volunteer between 10 and 1pm and 1pm and 4pm– Monday to Saturday (5pm). http://www.sussedwales.com/volunteer Call into 4/5 James Street, Porthcawl CF363BG or contact Margaret or Peter 01656 783962. Margaret Minhinnick
Deadline date for the January 2024 issue is: SUNDAY 10TH DECEMBER
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FEATURES NEWTON WI NEWS
The November meeting was taken by the Vice President as our President was on holiday. The evening speakers were Clare and Jennifer, known as the Kiln Fairies. They gave a brief history of glass decoration and how they started their business, it was most interesting. The members and some non-members of the craft class have been very busy these last few months knitting poppies ready for ‘Remembrance Sunday’ . The result was a truly amazing display at All Saints Church. A spectacular arrangement of poppies cascading down from the pulpit, with sculptures of soldiers at the base, a knitted poppy wreath adorned the font, also on the cross at the church entrance. Their talent and imagination is a real credit to them all, thank you ladies. Our President and some members attended the Remembrance Day Service and laid a wreath on behalf of Newton W.I. We are now looking forward to the December meeting, which includes our Christmas Party. M Freeman
SKER WI The meeting, held on Thursday 9th November, opened with the singing of Jerusalem. Lesley stood in for Eunice, the President. Cynthia read the minutes from the October meeting and Wendy went through the finances and reminded the members about upcoming events including Fish and Chip Supper, Christmas Miscellany at the High Tide The speaker this month was Gemma who runs the Pantri Box in Porthcawl, a not for profit zero waste shop where shoppers take their own containers and can purchase a wide variety of goods without the usual plastic packaging. They can buy exactly the amount they want thus reducing food waste. After the birth of her child Gemma became aware of how much plastic waste we throw away and it’s impact on climate change so she set up the Pantri Box. The shop has become so successful it now includes a coffee shop. Gemma also visits schools to talk about food and plastic waste. Jan Golding gave the vote of thanks. During the meeting Margaret Owen was congratulated on 50 years membership and presented with flowers and a card. Marion won this month’s competition with her handmade Welsh doll and June Davies won the raffle. Pam Powell
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PORTHCAWL TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD Mr John Sheen was our November speaker with the intriguing title of Christmas Claters. This turned out to be a misprint of the subject, which generated much laughter and created the atmosphere for the talk on Christmas Crackers, which was very entertaining. To end November again members included a coffee session and despite busy Christmas schedules managed a luncheon at the Seagull Pub . Definitely ladies what lunch! December 2nd In All Saints Church a carol service will be held organised by West Wales Federation of TG with the Rev Clive Williams in attendance and Porthcawl Guild hosting the occasion . Dec 4th we return to All Saints Church to decorate our tree for the festival. This will be undertaken by the committee. Dec 13th we hold our Christmas luncheon at the Grove Golf Club. To enhance the spirit of Christmas members are invited to deck themselves out in festive glamour. BLING being the order of the day and we aim to dazzle!. Do consider joining us to sample our friendship and hospitality. We meet on the second Wednesday of the month at The Grove Golf Club. Finally TG members would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas Pat Ladlow
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PORTHCAWL LIONS December means two important events for Porthcawl Lions. First, Father Christmas will be in his grotto by the museum in John Street from 10.30 to 4.00 every Saturday in December and is looking forward to meeting his young friends and giving them an early Christmas present. (Parents only-entry is £5.00 per child). Secondly there is the Boxing Day Fun Run, which these days the club runs with a lot of help from Porthcawl Runners. The run is about 7k. along the seafront to Rest Bay and back, starting and finishing at the Hi-Tide. The entry fee is £8.00 (£6.00 for affiliated runners) and you can register on line or if necessary on the day. Registration starts from 9.30 and the run is at 11.00. Everyone who finishes gets a medal and there are trophies for the male and female the junior and senior winners. With a concert in the Hi-Tide in March and other events planned 2024 promises to be a very busy year so the club is always looking for new members or, if you don’t want to commit to full membership, friend of Lions. If you would like to know more please contact Pauline on 859505. As the year draws to an end it only remains for Porthcawl Lions to thank you for your support during 2023 and wish you all a wonderful Christmas and a happy, healthy and peaceful new year. JMC
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Just a reminder that we do run a January issue! The deadline date for this issue will be
Sunday 10th December. Book your advertising, or send us your article now! Email info@seasidenews.co.uk for our prices Online version also available on our website: www.seasidenews.co.uk 40 | seaside news
HISTORY A HOLLYWOOD MURDER: PART TWO Who murdered movie director William Desmond Taylor on the night of 1 February 1922? Suspect number one, Henry Peavey. Taylor’s valet, Henry Peavey (pictured), had a penchant for wearing outlandish clothing and talking in an affected manner. Three days before the murder, he was arrested for “social vagrancy”. One is tempted to ask, why did Taylor employ such a dubious character as his most trusted servant? The murderer shot Taylor with a .38 calibre pistol. The bullet entered his body low on the left side, travelled through his lung before reaching his neck. The trajectory of the bullet suggested that the murderer had been either around five feet tall, stooped in a crouched position, lying on the floor, or holding the gun at an unusual angle. The Los Angeles police questioned Peavey at length. However, because Peavey was a man of colour, he had to obey Los Angeles’ racial laws of that time and be home before 8pm, and the authorities judged that Taylor had been murdered sometime after 8pm. So, who murdered William Desmond Taylor? More next time… Hannah Howe, author of Tula and Sunshine, novels set during the Golden Age of Hollywood. https://hannah-howe.com
Pavilion. The Porthcawl Amateur Operatic Society soldiered on throughout the war presenting musicals, particularly ‘The Student Prince’ in December 1942. On 13th December 1944 Ralph Reader’s Gang Show visited RAF Stormy Down. Porthcawl Cinemas, Coliseum and Casino, owned by Mr. William Beynon were granted Sunday opening, which was welcomed. The war affected Christmas dinners. In 1939 the Airmen’s menu at RAF Newton Down (Stormy Down by 1940) included a starter tomato soup, turkey and full Christmas trimmings, pudding, mince pies, cheese, fruit, beer, and cigarettes. By 1945 this richness of fayre had changed. Ceri Joseph
PORTHCAWL MUSEUM ANTIQUE EVENING
WW2 CHRISTMAS IN PORTHCAWL Christmases 1939-1945 for obvious reasons changed in many ways. Decorations were crafted from what was available or found in the countryside. Presents were again either made by hand or if possible, purchased at local shops. Wartime spirit was, also, alive, and well in the way parties and entertainment were delivered. In December 1940 a party was given at the Porthcawl Pavilion for all evacuees and Porthcawl children of school age. The children were given tea, games and dancing. On the other hand, that same December many serving men, billeted in Porthcawl, were invited to private homes whilst others were entertained to tea and a party on Christmas Day, also, at the
A large audience attended Porthcawl museum antique evening at the High Tide in October Philip Keith, auctioneer at Rogers Jones & Co Cardiff talked about his 30 years experience working in the auction industry before apprising some of the antiques brought to the event by members of the audience. An antique quiz and raffle bringing the evening to a close. The Museum would like to thank the auctioneer, the museum volunteers and the staff at the High Tide for making the evening a success. David Swidenbank
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HEALTH COST OF CANCER
Email your article info@seasidenews.co.uk The recommend intake is 75-90 mg per day with a maximum recommended daily intake of 1000mg. Aside from fruits and vegetables, vitamin C is available in a wide range of forms. Chewable tablets, capsules, sachets and effervescent tablets, for example. If you ingest too much vitamin C you might suffer gastrointestinal discomfort and even diarrhoea. You should avoid taking vitamin C supplements if you have any kind of kidney disorder – see your GP first. Taken from www.saga.co.uk Glyn Hardwicke
ARE YOU HAPPY?
Christmas is round the corner and we can’t believe how fast this year has gone by. There’s still plenty of time to sign up for the 3 Peaks Challenge we will be doing in 2024. You can go onto our website www.costofcancer.org.uk where you can read all about it. On our website there’s also a link to the Global Adventure Challenges site who are the event co-ordinators and this is who you’ll sign up with. This is going to be a challenge which will test your limits of fitness and also your mental ability as these types of challenges are not just about physical ability. You’ll have to put the training in as it’s a tough one. This one is done in under 24 hours so it’s not for the fainthearted, but we have every faith in you. We have lots planned in 2024 so please do watch this space. We look forward to seeing all your registrations for the 3 Peaks Challenge. All that’s left is for us to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a very happy healthy 2024. Nicky, Emma & Cath Trustees
Feeling sad can be hard! Sadness may mean that life feels as if you are encased in treacle and sounds and voices you once enjoyed are muffled and mute. You may be asked are you a glass full or glass empty kind of person and you sigh inwardly, not remembering the glass can be refilled. So how do we recharge our glasses? Try this to increase and enhance happiness and wellbeing every day, just notice three things that went well today and do more of those! Maybe uplifting music, reading, pets, grandchildren, cooking, dancing, gardening, socialising, walking, nature, gratitude and learning… Now, recall a memory that makes you smile, a good night out, an achievement, family occasion, passing a test, running into the sea, starting a new job or retiring. There is probably more than one, just play those memories again either in your mind or look at an image of the special day. Just remember research has shown happiness is determined by genetics 50%, life circumstances 10% and outlook and behaviour 40%. So, you can influence your happiness levels! If you are interested happier people tend to live seven years longer The Dalai Lama once said ‘I believe that the very purpose of life is to be happy’. Be gentle on yourself. Margaret Brown
A TO Z OF VITAMINS Vitamin C is probably best known for helping to prevent colds, but it’s generally good for keeping your immune system in good shape. In fact, studies have failed to show that upping your intake of vitamin C will stop you getting a cold while some have demonstrated that taking extra may help reduce the duration of colds. It’s also instrumental in helping the body heal from injury. It’s good for your eyes too and helps prevent cataracts. And, as with other vitamins, it’s a powerful antioxidant so helps prevent cancer too. What’s the best way to take vitamin C? Many fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of vitamin C. Beyond citrus fruits, kiwi fruit and berries such as strawberries and blackcurrants are also excellent sources. Among vegetables the best sources include sweet peppers and tomatoes, but brussel sprouts, broccoli and potatoes are also good sources – if you eat the skin of the potato too. As vitamin C levels in fruit and vegetables can fall over time, as foods aren’t so fresh it’s important to try and eat as fresh as possible. Cooking also destroys some vitamin C – the water vegetables are cooked in, for example, will absorb much of the vitamin C so unless you’re eating veggies in a soup, you’ll lose some of the goodness. 42 | seaside news
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FINANCE WHAT A YEAR TO REMEMBER – OR FORGET? As Christmas approaches and we look back on the number of twists and turns we’ve had to endure this year on a number of fronts, makes you feel that 2024 can’t come quickly enough, especially if it brings some welcome relief from the pressures that people have experienced over the last 12 months. Whilst inflation remained stubbornly high and food prices and the cost of living generally took more of our income, there seemed to be a long road ahead still before we would see a turnaround taking shape. Although we are still some way off being back where we would prefer to be and bearing in mind that the days of mega cheap money are over, we could still see an upturn for the better in the New Year, as lenders have already started trying to get rates nearer to 4% or under, having been reducing almost daily over the last few weeks, at the time of my writing this. So, now is the time to have that discussion with us because we will know before you do where the latest reduced interest rates are within the whole market, as we are updated daily, often more than once – this way we can help you secure the best that’s available, subject to underwriting, of course. What the last few months have thrown up is the problem of job losses in certain areas and sectors and we spoke with someone recently who went into work one Monday morning, only to find that the company had folded over the weekend, so had his job. He didn’t have unemployment cover and so will have to find another job quickly as his income has ended. I am really pleased that a brand new policy has been launched with is flexible and affordable and can cover a range of issues, such as unemployment, accident and sickness and these can be chosen in a range of combinations, so anyone could benefit from a payout if they have one of the qualifying issues or more. Since it’s you that could be the next to have a problem of this nature, please get us to supply you a quote or range of quotes and within your budget. At times like we’re living in currently, who can afford not to have cover in place? Call us on 01656 782545 / 07768 418308 and we’ll be delighted to help. Finally, to those of you that have used our services again this year, thank you. Have a very peaceful and Family-inspired Christmas and New Year and we look forward to being available to help everyone who needs it in 2024. PAUL FIELDING Dragon Financial Call 01656 782545 / 07768 418308
CHRISTMAS GIFTS He’s making a list; he’s checking it twice- no we are not talking about Santa we are talking about the Chancellor! It’s the time of year where many of us will be thinking of the perfect Christmas gift for our loved ones, and cash or other financial gifts might be more welcome than ever this Christmas. With the cost of living having the biggest impact on the kids and the grandkids you may decide to gift some of your hardearned wealth to the younger generations now – rather than deferring your generosity until the reading of your will. The good news is that, done properly, this can go some way to mitigating an inheritance tax liability, thereby increasing the benefit to all concerned. At Christmas, most casual monetary gifts will fall within HMRC’s allowable limits. But more generous or ongoing transfers can cause tax issues for the recipient, so in this case some planning is advisable. Whether the handing over of a large cash sum is a festive gift or not, more care is required to make sure the Treasury doesn’t get an inheritance tax present further down the line and careful estate planning advice is needed. Keep Control Many older savers want to transfer wealth during their lifetime but prefer to retain some access or control over the assets. For this a Trust arrangement would be of particular interest. Gifts to Charity Now is the season to make gifts to charity. Not just because of Christmas appeals, but because of tax deadlines too. If you empty your pockets for well-deserving charities now you will also reap the benefits too. When donating to charity, fill out the Gift Aid form to boost the amount of cash the charity receives and reduce your income tax bill. Gifts to Charities in Wills are also free from IHT and if the gift is large enough reduces the amount of tax liability on the rest of the estate too. For further information, Estate planning and Financial Advice contact us at Abacus Assurance Financial Services Ltd 01656 772222 PIPPA VAUGHAN-AVERY - DipFA MLIBF CertLTCP Financial Advisor at Abacus Assurance Call 01656 772222
Deadline date for the January 2024 issue is: SUNDAY 10TH DECEMBER
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46 | seaside news
LEGAL CHRISTMAS CONTACT ARRANGEMENTS It is that time of year again when Christmas planning is underway, but if separated parents cannot agree on shared contact arrangements for their children, what should be a joyous and child-focused time often becomes stressful. If this is an issue, your options are to speak to a Solicitor, attend mediation, or if all else fails, make an application to the Court for an order to be made. However, the Court will not view resolving Christmas arrangements as an urgent issue, so it is important to plan ahead and not leave things until the last minute. Assuming there are no welfare concerns, the Court will normally take the view that it is in the children’s best interests to see both of their parents over the festive period. The Court will strive to order arrangements that are fair to both parents so it is highly unlikely the children will remain with one parent for the whole Christmas period. If you have very young children, thought may need to be given to whether they should wake up where they normally call ‘home’ as this is where children believe Father Christmas will visit. When children are older, a Court will often suggest that arrangements are alternated each year. This could be splitting Christmas Day in half and alternating each year who has the children for Christmas lunch. Or it could be that the children spend Christmas Day with one parent and Boxing Day with the other, and the following year the arrangements are swapped.
Ideally, Christmas arrangements should be agreed upon early after separation or divorce. This makes planning much easier and everyone involved knows where they stand. Christmas is an extremely busy time so it is beneficial to all, especially the children, to have clear arrangements in place earlier on in the year. MADELINE RAND Red Kite Law LLP 01656 782070
Deadline date for the January 2024 issue is: SUNDAY 10TH DECEMBER
Family Law Clinic First Wednesday of every month Bridgend: 10am-12pm Porthcawl: 2:30pm-4:30pm
Child Arrangements Divorce Finances Pre and Post nuptial agreements Warning letters Non Molestation and occupation orders Change of name Care proceedings Public Law Outlines Special Guardianship Orders To discuss your issue, please drop in to one of our free family legal clinics for a 15 minute consultation. Our expert team can provide you with expert legal advice.
Old Castle Offices, South Street, Bridgend, CF31 3ED 4 Lias Road, Porthcawl, CF36 3AH www.redkitesolicitors.co.uk
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GARDEN & NATURE RARE BUTTERFLY NEEDS YOUR HELP
The National Lottery Heritage Fund along with other organisations have granted four-year funding to help save Wales’s rarest butterfly which is now only found just outside the Bridgend County boundary between Ewenny and St Brides Major. The High Brown Fritillary butterfly has declined by more than 90% over the past 20 years and we are working to save it and the area in which it lives so that the butterfly and other creatures can continue to thrive in Wales. If you would like to know more about this beautiful butterfly and the work being done to save it please contact Dot Williams or Andrea Rowe: dwilliams@butterfly-conservation.org 07485 372192 or arowe@ buttterfly-conservation.org 07485 372237. Dot is very happy to visit groups to talk about the project and there are regular walks arranged to explore the area where the butterfly lives, details can be found on the Facebook page: https://www. facebook.com/butterflyConservationHighBrown We are also looking for volunteers to help us, there are lots of ways in which people can get involved, whether it be through our winter working groups, helping to lead walks or perhaps creating art and crafts.
PORTHCAWL FLORAL ARRANGEMENT SOCIETY Wishing all viewers a very Happy Christmas and New Year. At the time of writing we are looking forward to our final events of this year before we start our 2024 programme. We have our Christmas dinner in the Grove at the beginning of December which is always an enjoyable social evening. Before this we are excited about our annual Christmas Open Evening in the Grand Pavilion. This is our first year back to the Pavilion since Covid and it will be extra special. We will be shown plenty of ideas for Christmas flower arrangements and lucky raffle winners will be able to take home the demonstrations. We will have plenty of time to practice decorating our houses with flowers during our Christmas break and then we start 2024 with a musical social evening and buffet on January 24th Many members attended the Area Day in Brecon recently where they were able to meet with members from other floral groups and attended work shops and a fabulous demonstration. We look forward to more trips in 2024. We are always delighted to welcome new members and visitors are also welcome at our meetings. You may enroll at any time throughout the year. The subscription fee is £30 for the full year and all meetings incur a £5 admission charge. We meet on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday evenings of the month at Awel y Mor Centre at 7pm. Please check out our Facebook page and WhatsApp group for more information. Alison Thomas, Club Secretary 07581 048448 48 | seaside news
Email your report info@seasidenews.co.uk
CEFN CRIBWR GARDENING CLUB “The rhythm of the year does not follow the calendar but the light. In the week between Christmas and the New Year tentatively reintroduce yourself to the garden. The days have no further to fall and the only way is up! The weather is likely to be bad and the pleasures very brief but it is a beginning!”(Monty Don) If it’s too bitter outside you can retreat to a cosy chair a warm fire with a glass of something festive and a cheeky mince pie! (Lovely) and create your gardening wish list for 2024! If you feed the birds in winter try hanging the feeder near your roses, the birds will make short work of any pests lingering there. Jobs! Remove yellowing leaves from brassicas so fungal disease doesn’t take hold, support your brussels by earthing up the stems so they don’t topple in strong wind. Put straw around the base of parsnips to stop the soil from freezing which makes them a devil to pull up. All essential for the perfect Christmas dinner! Parsnips were so esteemed during the Roman Empire that Emperor Tiberius accepted the tribute paid to Rome by the Germans in parsnips! Wow. Happy Christmas! Chris Early
LALESTON GARDENING CLUB Autumn seems to be later these days so if your garden is like mine there are leaves to be collected and swept up. The winds we are experiencing in these named storms will bring the leaves down for sure. Make sure you have pruned some of the height out of your rose bushes or the winds will uproot them. If you are tempted to buy poinsettias to add to your Christmas decorations remember they are native to Mexico so don’t like cold, position them somewhere where they will have good light but away from a direct heat source. Keep their compost evenly moist and they should last well into the New Year. Our Garden Club held its Christmas Fayre in November, which was very successful; we raised a little under £2,000 to help with maintenance of our beloved Cliff Cottage. Thank you to all who supported us, we do appreciate it. We will be holding our Annual Christmas Dinner this month; it’s fully booked and has proved very popular. We hope all our members and supporters will have a lovely Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year! See you in 2024 - the seed catalogues will be arriving soon and we will all be off again planning our produce and blooms for the new growing season - our Gardening Year begins again. Susan Ford
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Just a reminder that we do run a January issue! The deadline date for this issue will be
Sunday 10th December. Book your advertising, or send us your article now! Email info@seasidenews.co.uk for our prices Online version also available on our website: www.seasidenews.co.uk 50 | seaside news
Supporting people with life limiting and life changing conditions The Sandville Self Help Foundation is a charity overlooking the Porthcawl coastline. You can meet people from across Wales who are going through similar experiences. It is a safe place where you can make positive changes to your physical, psychological and emotional well-being. We offer set days for specific conditions and would like to offer a warm welcome to those individuals who have been diagnosed with life limiting and life changing conditions including but NOT limited to:
Parkinson’s
Tuesdays 9am - 4pm
Cancers
Wednesdays 10am - 4pm
The trained and experienced team at the Sandville Self Help Foundation aim to: • Provide individuals and family members with an opportunity to meet and give mutual support around a diagnosis and treatment. • Provide an opportunity for individuals to attend sessions within the Gym & Mobility Suite and Wellbeing Studio including Yoga, Relaxation, Tai Chi, Pilates, Chair Exercises, Circuits and Sandville’s Parkinson’s Warrior Classes. • Provide individuals with an opportunity to use the Hydrotherapy Pool to assist in rehabilitation, improving mobility and maximising independence. • Provide individuals with an opportunity to access Complementary Therapies including Reflexology, Reiki, Acupuncture and Hypnotherapy used in the management of pain, anxiety, difficulty in sleeping and more. • Provide hairdressing and beauty advice pre and post chemotherapy and other treatments. • Provide safe access to our Sensory Garden and gardening opportunities. • Share practical information and signpost to other support services.
Multiple Sclerosis, Motor Neurone Disease, Muscular Dystrophy, Stroke, Brain Injuries, Complex Pain, Respiratory Conditions & more
Thursdays 10am - 4pm
Dementia & Frail Older Person’s Cafe
Fridays 11am - 2pm
Please contact the Sandville Self Help Foundation for more information on any of our services.
You don’t need an appointment or a referral, we will assess your needs and offer services to those who meet the charity’s criteria. We do not receive any government funding and rely on your generous donations.
Follow us on our socials!
www.sandville.org.uk info@sandville.org.uk
01656 743344
Sandville Court, Kenfig, Bridgend CF33 4PU
@SandvilleSelfHelpFoundation
Registered charity no: 517899
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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.
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
SLIMMING WORLD WITH MOLLY
6pm - The Scout Hall, Woodland Avenue, Porthcawl CF36 5HW. Call or text Molly on 07710 489645 for more details.
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.
52 | seaside news
PORTHCAWL COMMUNITY CHORUS
A day-time mixed choir covering a variety of styles. 1.30-3.00pm at Gilgal Baptist Church Hall. No auditions and no need to read music. Just come along if you enjoy singing. Contact: Maggie Jemmett on 07932 793355 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. 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.
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.
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 BREATHING SPACE CREATIVE GROUP
Find new skills and grow confidence at FREE creative arts sessions for adults. Wednesday 12.30-2.30pm in Awel-y-Mor Community Centre, Hwtchwns Terrace CF36 5TN. Helping to support wellbeing, positive mental health and reduce isolation. Run by arts charity Tanio to book contact helo@taniocymru. com 01656 729246.
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.
Promote your club/society: info@seasidenews.co.uk 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 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.
PORTHCAWL TRIATHLON CLUB
Weekly coached run sessions at 6.30pm. Come along for a taster session. Check meeting location. Search Facebook or www. porthcawltriathlonclub.com All abilities and new members welcome.
SLIMMING WORLD, PORTHCAWL
Scout Hall, Woodland Avenue, Porthcawl, CF36 5HW 9.30am. Contact Millie - 07765 040006.
SLIMMING WORLD WITH MOLLY
6pm - The Public Hall, Heol Las, North Cornelly CF33 4AS. Call or text Molly on 07710 489645 for more details.
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 Mike Johnson, 07938949194 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.
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 available food and beverages.
SLIMMING WORLD WITH MOLLY
8am & 9.30am - The Green Acre Motel, Heol Fach, North Cornelly CF33 4LH. Call or text Molly on 07710 489645 for more details.
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.
PROMOTE YOUR CLUB/SOCIETY: info@seaside news.co.uk
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54 | seaside news
seaside news | 55
WHAT’S ON SATURDAY 2ND DECEMBER
GOFALAETH GLANNAU OGWR: WELSH CHAPELS IN PORTHCAWL AND BRIDGEND Helo bawb, dyma rai digwyddiadau i edrych ymlaen atynt yn ystod y mis hwn. Mae croeso cynnes i bawb i ymuno gyda ni! Here are a few events coming up in our chapels this month. Everyone is welcome to join us, whatever your level of Welsh! For services, our Minister Dylan prepares a summary of his sermon in English and there are lots of learners in our congregations. *From 10am-12pm: Coffee Morning for Welsh Learners in Tabernacl Porthcawl (Fenton Place). Coffee, tea, bara brith and plenty of board games to enjoy! *Tuesday 19th & Wednesday 20th December at 10am, 1.30pm and 7pm: Christian Christmas Panto: ‘Where’s the Donkey’/’Ble mae’r Asyn?’ at Tabernacl Bridgend (Derwen Road). Performances in Welsh and English; free of charge *Friday 22nd December: Welsh carols by candlelight at 7pm in Tabernacl Porthcawl (Fenton Place) *Sunday 24th December at 11.15am: Communion Service in Welsh at Tabernacl Porthcawl (Fenton Place) *Monday 25th December at 9.30am: Christmas Day Communion Service in Welsh at Tabernacl Bridgend (Derwen Road) For more details, please visit our website: www.GlannauOgwr.cymru
Promote your club/society: info@seasidenews.co.uk Come along and listen to some well known traditional carols and a variety of other Christmas songs including for the youngsters a medley from “Elf” and the “Grinch” plus Christmas favourites by John Rutter all chosen by our conductor Liz York. Our guest soloist will be 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 “Kids Cancer Charity” based in Swansea who provide compassionate care breaks, play therapy and bereavement support. Tickets £10 adults and £6.00 for children available at the door or from any member of the choir. SUNDAY 17TH DECEMBER
SANTA AT KENFIG Santa will be coming to Kenfig Nature Reserve, as part of our Christmas Market. Details on the Kenfig Nature Corporation Facebook Page.
PROMOTE YOUR EVENT Email us for details: info@seasidenews.co.uk
TUESDAY 5TH – THURSDAY 14TH DECEMBER
PORTHCAWL CHRISTMAS CAROLCADE The Rotary Christmas Carolcade takes place on Tuesday 5th, Thursday 7th, Tuesday 12th and Thursday 14th December, 5pm - 8pm. See Route and times attached. John Street Collection With the sleigh, take’s place on Saturday 9th and 16th from 9.30am – 4pm and on Saturday 23rd December from 9.30am 2.00pm. Christmas Festival Concert The festival concert will take place in All Saints Church on 7th December @ 7pm. All are welcomed – FREE entry. --- REMINDERS --Christmas Tree Festival – on public view, 5th December – 17th December, All Saints Church The Rotary Post - operates from 11th November until 15th December in the CF36 area. 25p Stamps sold throughout Porthcawl shops. Young musician competition – 6th December @ 7pm, All Saint Church Please support Rotary to help raise monies for local and Rotary charities. You can view the route map in full on in this issue of Seaside News, plus the Seaside News Facebook page. We wish everybody a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! FRIDAY 8TH DECEMBER
THE BROADWAY CHORUS CHRISTMAS CONCERT The concert will be held at All Saints Church Porthcawl, starting 7.30pm. 56 | seaside news
Deadline date for the January 2024 issue is: SUNDAY 10TH DECEMBER
Based in Porthcawl, Bridgend, Nottage Forge has been creating quality commercial and domestic ironwork for decades. Skilled in bespoke steel fabrication, our experienced team creates items to your design specifications and is happy to provide free quotations across South Wales. Our work includes steel and composite gates, railings, balconies, fire escapes, and balustrades. We also create custom garden arches, furniture, and log holders.
DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL IRON WORK
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Surf life saving is a very diverse sport and can offer 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, first aid, surf and beach sports such as wading, surf swimming, board paddling, beach flags, 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.
For more information please contact:
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SEA & SPORT NEPTUNE’S PIRATES BEACH CLEANS
So far this year we have had 23 beach cleans on Coney beach. We’ve enjoyed the company of Nottage, Porthcawl and Trelales Primary schools and the South Wales Police. Thank you to our amazing local volunteers, specifically Pam & Lyn, Gareth, Ian, Debbie, Debra, Val & Amelia, Marcus & Mel… you have been with us all year through all weathers…thank you. Not forgetting our fab onshore crew, Joolz, Charl and Steve. Thank you also to Gemma at the Pantri-box and Ryan at Grow & Grind for your support too. So far this year we have removed 1602 kg of debris, by the end of the year that’s going to be very close to TWO TONNES saved from the sea! Everyone is very welcome to join in. We meet roughly every other Sunday at Grow & Grind. For dates check our ‘Captain Paul Watson Foundation UK’ FB page or our poster in the PantriBox window. We provide pickers and bags so just bring yourself. Any schools, clubs or groups who would like to organise individual beach cleans just holler. contact us at southwales@paulwatsonfoundation.uk It’s for the Oceans! Elkz, Porthcawl
58TH PORTHCAWL CHRISTMAS MORNING SWIM This year’s swim will take place at 11.45am with registration starting from 10.30am. You can register in advance online at our website www.christmasswim.org Or just come along on the day. The commemorative mugs this year are sponsored by Nolan Recycling and will be given out to swimmers when they return to the Hi-Tide after their swim. With this year’s theme being ‘Pantomime’ we can’t wait to see your costumes!
58 | seaside news
Whilst this is a free event, we raise money for many local charities and organisations so please donate if you can. The safety of the event is of great importance and with that in mind if anyone is available to help out by volunteering on the day please get in touch - the more the merrier! Keep an eye on social media for any updates in the run up to the big day! See you on the beach! Lucy Jones
Deadline date for the January 2024 issue is: SUNDAY 10TH DECEMBER SURF REPORT An outstanding month of surf generated by the steady onslaught of Atlantic storms along with water temperatures remaining user friendly has seen the local surf community buzzing with excitement. The majority of the action has taken place on the Coney side of town with ‘the point’ providing some spectacular moments. Multiple highlights include long time local Brad Hockridge snagging a timeless barrel that wouldn’t have looked out of place on any surf film and other standouts worth mentioning are Ian ‘Ianto’ Bowen riding his bright yellow mid-life crisis on the best waves of the day, Rudder Rava and George Schofield representing the goofy foots with style and also aspiring pro Logan Nichol showing us all how it’s done. The highly anticipated surfers ball came back to town with a bang and was thoroughly enjoyed by all so let’s hope with all the ongoing support from local businesses and fancy-dress enthusiasts alike this can become a permanent fixture in the towns social diary once again. The WCSC has had a busy month with a trip over to the wave in Bristol enjoyed by all, especially James Dodd whose excitement at escaping the chlorine clutches of a ‘death defying’ barrel ride is perfectly captured in the image with this report. The club has also secured plenty of development grants for the upcoming year so expect plenty of coaching benefits (particularly for the under 18’s) heading our way. The websites and social media pages provide all details of events throughout the year and how to join etc. Gary Lewis Picture caption: Paul Dodd ‘Claim of the Year’
open every day open every day except Christmas Day istmas Day except Chr
TIDES Low Tide: Lower Number (m)
High Tide: Larger Number (m)
2023/24
DEC JAN What we offer? Surf Lessons
Surf Hire
Kayak Hire
SUP Hire
Lifeguard Training
Changing & Key Facilities
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Senior Men
SheGulls
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2nd Dec Loughor RFC (H) Cup
3rd Dec Tumble (H)
2nd Dec Tondu (A)
9th Dec Resolven RFC (A)
21st Jan Newcastle Emlyn (A)
9th Dec Kenfig Hill (H)
16th Dec Pyle RFC (H)
18th Feb West Swansea Hawks (H) 30th Dec Bridgend Ath (A)
30 Dec
Maesteg Celtic RFC (A)
6th Jan Trebanos (A)
Christmas
WREATH
Heather Webb-Howells
porthcawlrfc.com
Youth
T: 01656 784242
Tide Times are BST adjusted (so no need to add an hour!). The time you see above is correct Datum of Predictions = Chart Datum : 5.30 metres below Ordnance Datum (Newlyn) NATIONAL OCEANOGRAPHY CENTRE: COPYRIGHT RESERVED
seaside news | 59
TIDES Low Tide: Lower Number (m)
High Tide: Larger Number (m)
2024
2024
2024
FEB MAR APR MAY
Tide Times are BST adjusted (so no need to add an hour!). The time you see above is correct Datum of Predictions = Chart Datum : 5.30 metres below Ordnance Datum (Newlyn) NATIONAL OCEANOGRAPHY CENTRE: COPYRIGHT RESERVED
60 | seaside news
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62 | seaside news
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