SEASIDE NEWS - JANUARY 2018 ISSUE by Seaside News

ISSUE 216 JANUARY 2018

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your articles, views, news & reports View the magazine online at: www.seasidenews.co.uk contact us Tel: 01656 859587

Email: info@seasidenews.co.uk Website: www.seasidenews.co.uk Address: Seaside Publications Ltd, 2 Long Acre Drive, Nottage, Porthcawl, CF36 3SB.

ISSUU

contents your views.............................................. 8 puzzles page........................................ 12 library books....................................... 14 your pictures....................................... 16 local history........................................ 20 school reports..................................... 22 poets corner........................................ 28 local news............................................ 34 club features....................................... 36 legal advice.......................................... 40 women’s institutions........................ 42 business & finance............................ 44 gardening advice................................ 46 health & wellbeing............................ 48 arts & music........................................ 50 local directory.................................... 52 what’s on............................................. 54 sport reports....................................... 56 tide times........................................... 57

where we deliver 28,000 COPIES EVERY MONTH With 27,000 copies hand delivered direct to local homes in the following areas: Porthcawl, Stormy Down, South Cornelly, North Cornelly, Kenfig, Maudlam, Margam Village, Pyle, Kenfig Hill, Cefn Cribwr, Pen-y-Fai, Laleston, Broadlands, Whiterock, Brackla, Coity, (part of) Bryntirion and Bridgend Town Centre. Around 1,500 copies available to pick up from selected local outlets throughout the Bridgend County Borough and parts of the Vale of Glamorgan.

pick up a copy At the beginning of each month from: Nottage Stores, Pyle Garden Village, Halo Leisure Centre, BCBC Civic Offices or the Princess of Wales Hospital. Copies also available in a number of additional places throughout the Borough.

next deadline Monday 15th January - for February 2018 issue.

send us your article There is a 200 word limit on all FREE articles. We only accept articles sent via email. Please remember to TITLE your article and include your name and address. Also running a spelling and grammar check prior to sending would be great.

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57 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® 19982018 VAT Registration No: 879 7077 54 | Seaside Publications Ltd is registered in Wales, company number 09413904.

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your views Dear Editor, Four-year-old Lowri Jade Lewis adjusted her pair of Pudsey ears, pulled on her wellingtons and set off on her own charity walk in support of Children In Need. For the second year running Lowri, a pupil at Nottage Primary School in Porthcawl, chose the sandy dunes of Kenfig Nature Reserve for her challenging walk, supported by her parents and grandparents. The challenge took Lowri across the dunes, along a stretch of Sker Beach and skirted the Pyle and Kenfig Golf Club on her way back to the Nature Reserve. A quick check on the pedometer revealed that Lowri had covered just under four miles in a little over two hours. Thanks to the sponsorship of family members, friends, neighbours, her dad’s working colleagues at Persimmon, plus a generous contribution by a group of regulars at the Jolly Sailor in Newton, Lowri’s walk helped raise a total of £404 to be added to the national campaign. Mark Lewis, Porthcawl (One very proud dad)

PISGAH STREET PARKING PROBLEMS Dear Editor, I’m sure this isn’t the first time an outraged resident has contacted you in regards to the disgraceful rule of not being able to park your car outside your own home in Pisgah Street, Kenfig Hill. The unfair rule in place means the closest place to park your car during the day is the Heathbridge Surgery car park just up the road and often that is full, and I am sick and tired of my partners car and mine being damaged in said car park when being left there. Countless other residents have the same problem. What annoys me the most however is that further up the road there are two lanes between the Heathbridge Surgery and the adjoining chemists which are double yellow lined yet not a day goes by when cars are parked there for extended periods to no reprimand, yet parking my car outside my house will incur a fine. Parking on those yellow lines is actually very dangerous as motorists often struggle to pass these illegally parked cars to join the main road. I have countless photographs of these cars that are being allowed to illegally park. Something needs to change as it’s disgraceful hard working tax paying residents are being persecuted for parking outside their own home. Could you please print this letter in your next issue or forward it to someone who you may think could help on this matter. I’ve written to the council but they don’t seem to care. Matthew Rose, Kenfig Hill 8 | seaside news

EMYR’S KARAVAN4THEKIDZ SUPPORTS VELINDRE Dear Editor, GET £40,000 TAR Fantastic news, we have now raised over £32,000 - thank you so, so, so much to you kind people who have raised or donated recently - great effort and very generous! We have set a target of £40,000 to buy much needed equipment specifically for children having Radiotherapy in Velindre. Emyr, as have many other children, had Radiotherapy as part of their cancer treatment and although staff were fantastic, there was very little specifically for Children. The Consultants and other staff at Velindre are delighted with our idea and have research to support the equipment we aim to purchase that will mean children needing less anaesthetic, being less frightened and that will also help their parents. It wasn’t there for Emyr and others but we can change that now. Please run, walk, jump, dance, anything to help! Please visit our website to register or see upcoming events http://www.emyrskaravan4thekidz.co.uk/ or call 07900493697 We can MAKE A DIFFERENCE. Thank you xxx Sandra, Kevin and Huw Owen, Paul Downes and Christian Evans

We want to reach the £40,000 target

LOWRI’S WALK FOR CHILDREN IN NEED

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seaside news | 9

your views THE MYSTERY OF THE MOVING PEGS

Dear Editor, From the home of the mallard ducklings, strange happenings in my garden shed! For some time I had been aware that my wooden clothes pegs had been appearing in odd places in my shed. Knowing I had field mice there so put it down to their antics. However, when one morning I found fifteen pegs stuffed in the mug I use to feed the garden birds, I began to wonder. When I left seed in the mug, I found the next morning it was full of pegs, end on in the mug, crossways across the top, one morning I counted nineteen pegs. As well as pegs the odd bulb was added to the mug. I know I have a squirrel visiting the garden, could it be him/her hiding a stash of food? I have contacted Park Slip Nature Reserve and hope to pick up a camera on Wednesday, what I wonder will we find? Julie Smith, Porthcawl

CHRISTMAS TREES - ALL SAINTS CHURCH Dear Editor, Every year the Rotary Club organises the Christmas Tree Festival at All Saints Church. Over fifty organisations take part, all submitting a Christmas tree approximately four feet tall. All are decorated differently and artistically and are adorned with a variety of different coloured lights which produces a beautiful display which is greatly admired by the public. These trees are only on display for one week at the end of every November and they are then dismantled and sadly disappear from public view. But this should not be so, could they not be utilised for the benefit of the town? Could the owners of these Christmas trees, many of whom are shopkeepers, be approached to place the trees in their windows creating an avenue of Christmas trees along John Street? The fifty trees would not only become an attraction for local people but also for visitors to the town. I am sure Porthcawl would not be the only town in Wales to have such an attraction. In addition it could be complemented by having hanging lanterns from the lamp posts and overhead lights like in St Mary St, Cardiff. This could be built up gradually over the years. As an incentive there could be a prize of £100 and cup for the best dressed Christmas shop window in town. It would be interesting to have other readers’ suggestions on the matter. John Jenkins, Porthcawl 10 | seaside news

have your say info@seasidenews.co.uk

HAPPY 90TH BIRTHDAY JOHN JENKINS!

Dear Editor, This January John Jenkins, one of the biggest contributors to the Seaside News letter page, celebrates his 90th birthday. John has been writing in to the Seaside News on a regular basis for many years, as he cares so passionately about the town he lives in, sometimes even being known to write in under a nom de plume! He is always looking for new (sometimes weird & wonderful!) ideas to improve the town and he is always first to voice his thoughts on how Porthcawl can be improved. His family have even joked that as he has campaigned for so long for a swimming pool for Porthcawl, that if there ever were one it should be called ‘The John Jenkins’ pool! John lives in Pavilion Court with his long-suffering wife Margaret, who over the years has spent countless hours patiently typing his many letters. He has three daughters Helen, Chris and Liz who all live locally, along with 9 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. He will be celebrating his big day with all of the family in the Atlantic Hotel. But never fear… even though he celebrates his 90th birthday this year he won’t be retiring from his role as a regular Seaside News contributor anytime soon! Christine Armsby, Porthcawl

PORTHCAWL HEALTH CENTER Dear Editor, In the November issue of Seaside News Suzy Davies AM states that the Porthcawl Regeneration Scheme is “dead and gone probably never to return” as part of her Hillsboro Place Car Park comments. Should we now revisit the idea of building the health center on a portion of OUR car park adjacent to the existing surgery were there are bus stops nearby for many routes and car parking available. The town’s Main Street close bye to allow those waiting for appointments or prescriptions to shop or get a coffee etc. Looking at the location of the proposed health center it will be total chaos for those visiting and those that live in the area. It is about time that a sensible approach was made to suit the people of Porthcawl. John Finney, Porthcawl

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puzzles page

Sudoku puzzle No. 4035 2017-10-30

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12 | seaside news

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library books New books at Porthcawl library NON FICTION

FICTION

Gordon Brown My Life Our Times

Bernard Cornwell Fools and Mortals

Monty Halls Escaping Hitler

Felix Francis Pulse

Jackie Kearney My Vegan Travels

P D James Sleep No More

Matt Lucas Little Me Adam Ockelford Comparing Notes: How We Make Sense of Music Sam Owen Resilient Me Rosa Prince Theresa May: The Enigmatic Prime Minister Jenny Uglow Mr Lear A Life of Art and nonsense David Webb Complete Guide to Watercolour Holly Willoughby Truly Scrumptious Baby

Quintin Jardine State Secrets Andy McNab Line of Fire James PattersoN The People vs Alex Cross Lesley Pearce The Woman In The Wood Kathy Reichs Two Nights Ali Smith Winter

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BOOK OF THE MONTH Fools And Mortals by Bernard Cornwell In a new departure from the creator of Sharp and Utred, Cornwell takes us into the heart of the Elizabethan era. We follow the young Richard Shakespeare, an actor struggling to make his way in a company dominated by his estranged older brother, William. As the growth of theatre blooms, their rivalry - and that of the playhouses, playwrights and actors vying for acclaim and glory - propels a high-stakes story of conflict and betrayal.

All these books and many more are available to borrow from your local library. We also have a full range of activities for children and adults of all ages, including Reading Groups, Bore Coffi, Coding Clubs, Bounce and Rhyme and Stories and Craft. Please pop in, or follow Porthcawl Library on Facebook to find out more. We are thrilled to announce that on Thursday 1st February we are hosting “Harry Potter Book Night 2018”. Children aged 7-11, are invited to join us at Porthcawl Library from 5.30pm – 7pm, for a fun evening celebrating the magical beasts at the heart of the Harry Potter stories. Would you like to save money on magazines and books, or listen to books on your digital device? Did you get a new iPad, tablet or laptop for Christmas? Maybe there something specific that you want to use your mobile device for, but aren’t sure how to go about it? Our digital drop sessions Monday – Friday 9.30am – 1pm could help!

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your pictures SUNRISE ACROSS 3 DIFFERENT PORTHCAWL BEACHES

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local history PORTHCAWL MUSEUM

This month’s article takes us on a return trip between the North East of England and Porthcawl. The ‘Constance Ellen’ built in Porthcawl by William. S. Martin in 1871, battled with an immense storm, before being wrecked off the South Shields coast, at 6pm on 12th November 1901. The schooner was sailing from Littlehampton to Bowness, Scotland, with a cargo of iron rails. The South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade saved all seven crew, for which Captain Henry Robinson , left them a legacy; which still provides them with an income. The wreck is still visible. Conversely, on 2nd January 1906, the ‘’SS Pepin’ foundered off Porthcawl. Originally named ‘Hollinside,’ the ship was built at Howdon, North Shields, in 1890. In 1900 it was sold to a Spanish Company, and renamed the ‘SS Pepin.’ On a voyage from Bilbao to Cardiff, with a cargo of iron ore, at 3am in the midst of a storm, it was wrecked on Scarweather Sands. Captain Bernabean immediately, gave orders to lower the two lifeboats into which he, his wife, child and the fifteen hands stepped. Kenfig Sands proved too treacherous on which to land, but the Port Talbot Pilot Boat helped them into port. The wreck remains on Scarweather Sands. Ceri Joseph Picture: The Wreck of Constance Ellen, South Shields

THE WELSH ARSENAL

What was Wales’ biggest industrial contribution to World War 2? We know the people of Wales raised thousands of pounds to sponsor warships and aircraft. In Bridgend this amounted to £215,623 and across Glamorgan people raised £11 per head, the fourth highest amount raised anywhere in England and Wales. This money supported the cost of building war machines, but they were not made here. Yet one of the biggest stories of Wales in World War 2 was right on our doorstep- the Arsenal. At its peak, 32,000 people were working in the Bridgend Arsenal, filling bombs and making munitions for light guns, smoke, signals and heavy shells. Workers travelled by train and bus from Carmarthenshire to Monmouthshire. Significantly, most of the workers were women who had no experience of factory work, 20 | seaside news

and yet they had to work with volatile, dangerous materials. Inevitably there were explosions. Some died, more were terribly injured. But for the vast majority the experience was enjoyable, even liberating, and it transformed the communities of south Wales. Join local historian Mike Clubb for an engaging evening of discussion and remembering on 25th January 2018 at 7.30pm in Carnegie House, Bridgend. This is a free event supported by Bridgend Town Council and Heritage Lottery Fund. Tracy Evans Follow us on Facebook: Wartime Bridgend

PORTHCAWL CHRISTMAS EVENT

During December Santa & Mother Christmas rode through Porthcawl town centre on their sleigh, pulled by Rudolf & Prancer. Santa’s Elves were alongside handing out North Pole candy to the children. They then joined the Porthcawl Christmas Event in John St car park, where Santa & Mother Christmas gave free gifts to the children. There was also a Town Raffle this year with some nice Christmas hampers and other prizes to be won. The event also included, free hot roasted chestnuts, a snow globe (with free photo) ice rink, and the rodeo reindeer. All monies raised will be going back into the events fund to help enhance the next event, as well as a donation to the Mayors Charities fund. David Swidenbank

FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY NEWS The 16th January 2018 is a members social night, but our first speaker of 2018 will be Mrs Ella Dodds and her topic for the 19th February is ‘Memories of Coity Village’. Our Research Centre in the Len Evans Centre, Aberkenfig, is open on Wednesday from 10.30am-3pm, except for the last Wednesday of the month. Volunteer researchers are on hand to guide you in your search for ancestors, but need to be booked for hourly sessions on Tel: 01656 728531 (Wednesday’s only) or arc@glamfhs.org.uk . For more information see our website: www.glamfhs.org.uk Victoria Salmon

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school reports LOCAL TEACHER HONOURED AT AWARD CEREMONY Mrs Siarlot Hall, one of the staff at Heronsbridge School in Bridgend, attended an award ceremony in the prestigious Radisson Blu Hotel in London where she had been nominated for her work with children and young people on the Autistic spectrum. Hosted by Anna Kennedy OBE, founder of this Charity that celebrates and showcases examples of excellence taking place in the world of Autism. The National Autistic Heroes awards annual ceremony recognises the achievements of adults and young people on the spectrum and people and organisations working in the field and contributing to changes and improvements. One of the primary aims of the National Autistic Heroes is to highlight achievement and skills that can be reached rather than the more traditional view of concentrating on limitations. Nominated in both Lifetime and Outstanding Community Awards, she was declared the winner of the Outstanding Achievement in Education category. The whole ceremony was a great success and all enjoyed the experience and the first class entertainment provided by the Pineapple Performing Arts group and special performances by Emma Ahwai and Macauley Elvin.

CORNELI PRIMARY SCHOOL NEWS Designing a garden area in which to grow food is the challenge we have been set by our Eco Committee and Parent Council who are seeking to develop an underused portion of our grounds. This exciting project will enable children to plant and have the pleasure of eating the ‘fruits of their labours’. Good ideas too from Ava Ashton who was a winner in the Sainsbury’s calendar competition and the School Council, which resulted in the raising of £242 for Children in Need. Following their suggestions, we enjoyed fun activities, dressed in our PJs and iced biscuits. Fun was also had on trips out. The Year 5 children went to Techniquest and Nursery children visited Wiggley’s Farm. The animals there appreciated the tasty treats they were fed but seeing Father Christmas was the highlight. Santa also found time in his busy schedule to come to our Christmas Fayre and to visit a second time to bring gifts. We were festive too with our production of Cinderella, a visit by the Infant Classes to a pantomime, a Film Club screening and the choir sang at the switching on of the Christmas lights and senior citizens lunch. We now look forward to 2018 and send wishes for a Happy New Year to all our families and friends. Sue Jones

BRYNTEG SCHOOL NEWS

The Nuffield Foundation supports work experience for year 12 students who are studying Science, Psychology, Technology, Engineering and Maths at A Level. Placements are available in universities, commercial companies, voluntary organisations and research institutions. Only 86 placements were awarded across the whole of Wales and four Brynteg students successfully undertook four of these unique research opportunities. The students attended a Celebration Evening at Techniquest and were presented with their certificates by Nobel Prize Winner Professor Sir Martin Evans. Recently Brynteg pupils and staff supported the BBC Children in Need charity. Merchandise and cakes were available to purchase and £987.50 was raised in total. As part of our Anti-Bullying week, our Champions from year 7 and 8 took part in a workshop delivered by Stand Against Bullying. All students were there to make a difference to their school community. In addition to this ‘The Shades’ - a band, provided Brynteg pupils with entertainment! They were also on hand to give advice on how to stay safe online as well as discussing cyber bullying. Recently our year 12 Young Enterprise company ‘Diverge’ attended the Young Enterprise Christmas Trade Fair event in Ikea Cardiff. Brynteg won the Ikea award for Best Product. Congratulations! J L Davies

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school reports WELCOME TO THE FIRST CYNFFIG NEWS OF 2018! Last term Cynffig was one of the first three schools in Wales to be inspected by ESTYN under a new inspection framework. I am pleased and proud that the ESTYN report states: · ‘The school has a caring, inclusive and supportive ethos that suitably promotes pupils’ wellbeing.’ · ‘Between 2013 and 2016 performance in key stage 4 was well above the average for similar schools. Over the same period, pupils made strong progress from the end of key stage 2 to key stage 4.’ · ‘Almost all pupils feel safe and secure in school’ · ‘The school has secured strong outcomes in many performance indicators at the end of key stage 4 for two of the last three years.’ · ‘Pastoral transition arrangements between key stage 2 and 3 are strong, and learning and teaching links are well established.’ · ‘There is a broad range of extra – curricular clubs and activities, including sport, art and cultural trips, to extend opportunities for most pupils’ At Cynffig we maintain a relentless focus on ensuring progress for all of our pupils and pride ourselves on delivering a high quality all round education for our local community. We look forward now to building on our strengths and together celebrating the success and achievements of our pupils. Hannah Castle Head Teacher

PORTHCAWL PRIMARY SCHOOL

This autumn term the learning council at Porthcawl Primary School have had a busy time. To start the year we contributed to the schools new mission statement. Then we agreed on making appropriate school rules from everyone’s class charter and we had the final decision for the whole school rules by deciding the 6 most important rules. Our priority was to make sure that all pupils at PPS are happy and safe. We carried out a survey on our school lunches to find out what the pupils like and what changes they would like in the future, We were surprised to find out how many enjoyed the dinners. We took our findings to the catering staff to share our results. We are looking forward to seeing changes to the lunch time menu. Hopefully, we will be super healthy with a new salad bar! Every month we set a UNICEF Rights Respecting Schools challenge which linked to the right of the month, this month we have set a challenge to write an anti-bully leaflet which is to promote article 36 ‘You have the right to be protected.’ We are now planning for our next exciting mission for the spring term. PPS Learning Council 24 | seaside news

AND THE AWARDS GO TO…

Bridge FM has recognised the success of local young people in its ‘Bridge FM Young Achiever Awards’, which took place at the Best Western Heronston Hotel and Spa in Ewenny. Young people from across the county borough received awards for success in a range of categories from community and voluntary work to business, education and the arts. The event, sponsored by Bridgend College, was hosted by Bridge FM presenters Lee Jukes and Louise Apsee. Bridge FM Sales Director, Craig Thomas said: “The event was a great success: Thirteen young people were called up on stage to receive their awards. Each individual was inspirational for different reasons. It was great to be able to shine the spotlight on such young positive people”. Viv Buckley, Deputy Principal of Bridgend College said: “Bridgend College was very proud to be the main sponsors of such a fantastic event. As a College, we champion achievement and overcoming challenges and celebrate diversity. The barriers many of the award winners had to overcome are nothing short of incredible. We were privileged to meet and recognise so many inspirational young people”. Entertainment on the evening was provided by X Factor Finalists ‘Reggie n Bollie’ and Bridgend’s very own Jamie Bell who opened the ceremony. Jamie appeared on the last series of Britain’s Got Talent and currently studies Performing Arts at Bridgend College.

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school reports NEWS FROM ST CLARE’S SCHOOL

PORTHCAWL COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL

From the smallest in our Nursery to the tallest in our Senior School, the boys and girls at St Clare’s School, Porthcawl would like to wish Seaside News readers a very happy and healthy New Year. The last few weeks in the run up to Christmas were very hectic (although it seems months ago now), with Christmas concerts every day and pupils from the Nursery upwards providing parents and grandparents with festive entertainment. The fabulous musical The Seussical showcased the incredible talent we have here at St Clare’s and every night was completely sold out and we were delighted the Porthcawl Town Mayor could join us. Everyone enjoyed the Christmas trips too. Nursery pupils visited Abbot’s Kitchen in Margam, Prep pupils went to see the film “The Star” and Senior pupils went to the cinema, tenpin bowling and lunch out. Our Sixth Form gathered for a meal at the Fairways Hotel. We’re looking forward to the term ahead and warmly welcome all the new pupils joining St Clare’s. Our next Open Mornings are on Wednesday, 24th January and Wednesday, 24th February. To book your place please contact Holly Fowlkes our Registrar on (01656) 789966 or visit our website www.stclares-school.co.uk Simon Antwis, Headmaster

I am very much looking forward to welcoming prospective parents and pupils to our Open Evening for Sixth Form students 2018. This takes place on 17th January at 6pm, and as usual, we welcome all families who are interested in coming to see what Porthcawl Comprehensive School has to offer, as well as those of existing pupils. Prospective new families, as well as parents of younger pupils, (who might have missed our recent Open Evening for Year 7 pupils 2017), may arrange an appointment to meet staff and look around the school by calling 01656 774100. On 24th January the curtain will go up on our 40th consecutive school show and this year, pupils will delight audiences with their production of “The Phantom of the Opera”. Rehearsals are frantically taking place at every available opportunity to ensure that the show lives up to the long tradition of professionalism and excellence enjoyed year after year at the Grand Pavilion. Producing the show has again brought out the best in everyone and thanks to the cast, staff and parents who give so much to ensure the marvellous success of our show – long may the tradition continue at PCS! This year, demand is exceptionally high, so we are performing two shows on Saturday. Last year was a sell-out and tickets are disappearing fast, so don’t delay calling the Grand Pavilion Box Office 01656 815995. Andrew Slade Head Teacher

MYNYDD CYNFFIG PRIMARY SCHOOL The Autumn Term culminated with fantastic performances of their Christmas Concerts by our Nursery, Reception and Year 1 to Year 4. The confidence displayed when acting, singing and dancing was appreciated by all who attended. Our Year 5 and 6 pupils led a Carol Service at St Theodore’s Church whilst our Choir performed on five occasions including a Candlelit Service for Cancer UK at All Saints Church, Porthcawl and at Ty Hafan Children’s Hospice in Barry. Our PTA has also been active, organising an amazing Christmas Fayre and leading festive art sessions across our Foundation Phase. Our Year 6 pupils participated in an entrepreneurial project where they made Christmas decorations by willow-weaving, raising over £500 in the process. In sport, Ethan Dewar and Lloyd Thomas have been selected for Bridgend Schools at rugby whilst Ethan and Finley Davies have represented Bridgend Schools at football. Phoebe Parry has also represented Bridgend Schools at netball. Our Year 5 & 6 girls relay team won the Freestyle and Medley events at the Urdd Mid Glamorgan Swimming Gala whilst Year 6 pupil Ffion Thomas won both the 50 metre backstroke and butterfly events, thus qualifying for the National Finals in Cardiff Bay in January. Neil Davies Head Teacher 26 | seaside news

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OPEN EVENING For Year 12 intake in 2018

To be held at 6.00pm on Wednesday 17th January The school is proud to hold its Annual Open Evening for those students who wish to enter the Sixth Form in September 2018.

Our Estyn inspection report was very positive and we were proud to read that:

th ththis the “One of the school’s strengths exceptional obe beheld held at 6.00pm on Wednesday 30 November held at 6.00pm on Wednesday 30 November at 6.00pm on Wednesday November working relationship 30 between teachers and pupils. Any student or parent interested can obtain The school has a strong ethos based on fairness and

Our Estyn report was very positive eisschool proud to hold Annual thisEstyn creates a inspection caringreport and disciplined environment… inspection waswas very positive proud to hold Annual more details and the “welcome pack” by Our Estyn Our inspection report very positive school is is proud toits hold itsits Annual The school works highly effectively with a range of emailing: and were proud read that: pen Evening those students whoand we were proud to read for those students who who and wewe were proud to read that: ning Evening forfor those students partners and this work hasto athat: significant impact on pupils’ year12openevening@porthcawlschool.co.uk wellbeing and achievement.” sh to enter the sixth form in September ertothe sixth September enter theform sixthinform in September of school’s strengths the “One “One of“One theofschool’s strengths is the thethe school’s strengths is is the 17. Alternatively you may telephone 01656 774100. Once again our Sixth Formers have been exceptionally . exceptional working relationship between busy: working Porthcawl isinterested ainterested traditional school withmore amore proven exceptional working relationship between yrudent student or parent can obtain exceptional relationship between orinterested parent can obtain parent can obtain more track record of excellence for all our Sixth teachers and pupils. The school a strong and “welcome pack” emailing: teachers teachers and pupils. The school has a strong sails and thethe “welcome pack” by by emailing: and pupils. Thethousands school has a has strong e “welcome pack” by emailing: Charities’ Week raised of pounds for local Formers. Our A Level results consistently r12openevening@porthcawlschool.co.uk causes, Interact held many events including ethos based on fairness and this creates 2openevening@porthcawlschool.co.uk vening@porthcawlschool.co.uk based onClub fairness and this creates ethosethos based andand this creates a aa compare very favourably with local and national quizzeson andfairness a treasure hunt hundreds of sweet ernatively you may telephone 01656 774100. caring and disciplined environment.” atively you may telephone 01656 774100. caring parcels were wrapped andenvironment.” sent to Romanian children. caring and disciplined ou mayfigures. telephone 01656 774100. and disciplined environment.”

Record numbers of pupils were involved in the Seren thcawl a traditional school with a proven track cawl is aistraditional school with a proven traditional school with a proven track track Network, designed to support Wales’ brightest Sixth A Level Results 2017 “The school works highly effectively with a “The school works effectively of excellence for in Years 12 and 13. Formers achieve their highly academic potentialwith andwith gain works highly effectively a a dord of excellence for all all in12 Years and ASAS llence all inof Years and12 13. AS13.A*•for98% pupils achieved grades E“The school range partners and this work has access leading universities. A work huge variety speakers oftoof partners and this has aof a results consistently compare very • consistently 81% were atcompare grades C rangerange ofvisited, partners and 2A2 results very including ourthis local work MP, thehas RoyalaMarines, consistently compare very A*significant impact pupils’ wellbeing and •with Anlocal amazing 27% were at grades A*/A significant impact onon pupils’ wellbeing and the Fire Service, Dementia Friends, MacMillan and ourably and national figures. significant impact on pupils’ wellbeing and with local and national figures. hably local national figures. representatives from many universities and colleges, •and 35% of pupils secured a place at a achievement. Collaboration with other achievement. Collaboration with other Level Results 2016University includingCollaboration first hand experiences from past pupils. Parents achievement. with other vel Results Russell2016 Group providers ensures that sixth form students can sults 2016 attended several events including the highly informative providers ensures that sixth form students can  99% 99% pupils achieved grades ensures that sixth form students can Finance Evening. of of pupils achieved grades A*-A*E Eproviders choose from a comprehensive range Againachieved many pupilsgrades joined Porthcawl choose from a comprehensive range of of of pupils A*- E for the chooseacademic from a comprehensive range of  30% 30% were grades A*/A were at at grades A*/A Sixth Form from other schools. vocational courses.” The wholeand ofand our Sixth Form completed a day’s walk in academic vocational courses.” were at grades A*/A aid of Pancreatic Cancer courses.” and enjoyed a successful beach academic and vocational Please find information  82% 82% were at grades were at further grades A*-A*C C at clean. Pupils have also been out in the local area on www.porthcawlschool.co.uk were at grades A*- C sixth form, students perform above the  AnAn incredible 360 A Level papers were “In“In work experience andstudents 160 students regularly carry outthe thethe sixth form, perform above incredible 360 A Level papers were “In the sixth form, students perform above the Community Action. ncredible 36023% A Level papers were a place family and Wales averages both the level seaside news | 27 and pupils secured family and Wales averages forfor both the level 3 3 satsat and 23% of of pupils secured a place

poets corner WHERE WILL I WALK?

Shall I walk with the violent and cause people pain? Or walk with the crooked for dishonest gain? Shall I walk with the sceptics and spread unbelief? Or walk with the bullies and bring people grief? Shall I walk with the wicked in their infamous rut? Or walk with the cowardly and keep my eyes shut? No! I’ll walk with the lonely and lend them my ear. I’ll walk with the grieving and bring them God’s cheer. I’ll walk with the weary and help them feel strong. I’ll help the rejected to know they belong. I’ll walk with the sickly and teach them to pray. I’ll walk with the lost and show them God’s way. And if my offer of help is ignored, I’ll not walk alone; I’ll walk with the Lord. This poem was inspired during a Prayer/ Bible Study at Community Church Aberkenfig on Wednesday 1st November 2017. Most of it was written that evening and it was finished the next morning. It grew from the statement, “I want to live my life so that people will find it easier to believe in God.” Also it was motivated by a testimony that was shared that evening. It may be used in almost any context, but especially to encourage people to walk with God. Bob Davies, North Cornelly

NEW YEAR’S RESOLVE

The new year is here, the old year is past. I’ll make resolutions, not sure if they’ll last. Lose some weight? Learn something new? Start up a savings plan? With Xmas cake and chocolates I don’t see how I can. I trawled the OU courses, Head ached, I lost the plot. A savings plan? Forget it, Xmas bill ate the lot. But I’d welcome the challenge, Put my poor brain to use. I know! I’ll write a poem each month, To send to Seaside News. Judy Dee, Porthcawl

28 | seaside news

email us your poem info@seasidenews.co.uk

A HAPPY NEW YEAR

Christmas is over, - the parties, the fun The lights and the pantos – was it all for God’ Son? For the Christ Child was born at Christmas they say So we too must bring gifts like that first Christmas Day. But now, it is over. Back to work we must go. No sleigh bells are ringing, though there may still be snow Put away decorations! No more giftings and fun? Oh no, for God’s giving is only begun. Each day as we rise there’s more daylight to show And those brave little flowers peeping out through the snow And hope rising up and fresh strength for each day Yes, today is God’s gift. It the ‘Present’ you know Yes, yesterday’s gone. We call it the past And we look to tomorrow, the future at last But today is the Present, so let’s cherish this gift And celebrate Jesus each day of our life. Pauline Lewis, Porthcawl

DECISIONS AND LIFE’S CHOICES

The majority of people in this world, Have the ability, to make their own choices, In most daily decisions made, Just by raising their voices. Too many people blame others, For the decisions they make, Which changes their lives drastically, And the path they will take. We will all make mistakes, And you need to live and learn, Because by making things right again, A lot of respect you will earn. So, don’t just sit back in anger, And take life’s hits as they run, Grab every opportunity in life to make it positive, And see what they become. Written by David Boyce Brackla, Bridgend

SANTA’S JOURNEY

Far away in Lapland, Santa slept, then woke. Rubbed his eyes, looked up at the sky, He thought, and then he spoke. Time, Mrs Claus to get ready, The Yule time is, with us. Plans for you and I to make, Many things, to discuss. He strolled down to the pastures, We’re the reindeer fed. Rudolph was there, he called to him, Hey you with a nose so red. Santa said, round up your friends, It’s time to prepare the sleigh. Yes, it’s nearly a week to go, Before it’s Xmas day. Mrs Claus has lots of mail, From children across the land. The lists are long, and some things, Are, in great demand. The toys are in the warehouse, Very neatly stacked. Pixies, elves and fairies, Will see that they were packed. Ready now, to load the sleigh, ‘‘Tis almost Xmas eve. Santa combed his beard. Then it’s time to leave. Over the hills and rooftops, the rein deer will soar, Santa will go down the chimneys, Sometimes through a door. Under a tree or on a couch, Santa will put the toys. Quietly, from house to house, Without, any noise. All the children are fast asleep, Until the day will break. Mummy and Daddy, stay silent, Until they are awake. Down the stairs with weary eyes, To see what they would see. Open up the presents, To laugh and shout with glee. Sweets and chocolates, nuts and fruit, Books and lots of toys. Dolls and teddies for the girls, Footballs for the boys. The sleigh is empty, so are the sacks, It’s back to Lapland to rest. Santa and all his helpers, Have done their very best. Derek Evans, Pyle

CHAPPY, CHAPPY

Bampy Bampy, you Chappy Chappy, Fish and chips, Seafood in your hands, Caravan, pink shirts and beer cans, Hand in hand I love you best, from ALL THE REST. Scarlett Lily Evans (Age 8), Porthcawl

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seaside news | 29

S AL E

‘Why not pop into Maple and grab a new year bargain. With up to 50% off in all three shops this is a sale you don’t want to miss!’

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poets corner

email us your poem info@seasidenews.co.uk

BARGAIN WITH THE DEVIL NEW COLLOSSUS At 20, Chris, a Satanist, Struck a bargain with the devil. Two young Christian girls. vestal virgins, One celestially good, one evil. Blessed one,cursed another thru’ Black magic. One to have sunkissed life, other tragic. Naomi plain , mundane, mousey, apathetic. Nicole, beautiful, intelligent, talented, energetic. Prince Chris of the darkness Fell for Naome, dull and sparkless. Hatched a demonic plan as a boy. Use special Nicole as a mere decoy. Pretended to love her, that she his wife. Barely knew the angel, yet ruined her life. No love, romance, help, chance. No merry wife of Nice led an evildance Leftherto be abused for life for no reason. Spared saved protected Mme de merteille, Dangerous liaisons. She his muse, never abused,nor lonely Neverpublicallyconfessed his love for Naomi. Eventuallylovebirdsdisappeared to a life of bliss Tell the innocent. One is this justice. Nicola Evans, Porthcawl

The

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What now do we see when we look to the West No longer a beacon of welcoming light, No longer a call to the tired, poor or huddled masses Wishing to breathe free, No longer, mother of exiles, mighty woman with A torch, No longer, the home of the brave and the free but a Builder of walls and insecurity, Do not send the homeless or tempest tosssed. For here All freedom has ben lost, Do not send a child to their golden door in tears, As this is the greatest of all their fears. God bless, America Peter Williams, Porthcawl

email us your poem info@seaside news.co.uk

Who killed Cock Robin? Who killed the Sparrow? Who built the gun, And the bow and arrow? Who poisoned the rivers? Who burnt down the trees? Who killed the butterflies, Wild flowers and bees? Who watches TV, and with A click of the tongue, Says: “save the planet, Something must be done!” Our world is so precious And yet we can’t see, We tear up the land And we pollute the sea. Of all that is precious And all that we own There is nothing so vital As our earthly home. Mother earth is watching us And all that we do, Her patience is waning With me… and with you. John Keylock, Porthcawl

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local news NAT WEST SET TO CLOSE IN PORTHCAWL

HARBOURSIDE NEWS! A very Happy New Year, everyone! We are delighted to confirm that work has now begun on site at Cosy Corner, with the first dig for our temporary buildings having taken place. The temporary buildings will also contain an exhibition area that will display plans, illustrations and models of Porthcawl Maritime Centre together with further details of all the fantastic facilities that will be available inside the building. Porthcawl Harbourside CIC staff will also be based in offices on site from the New Year. We are really looking forward to moving into our new home on site. SeaQuest Coastal Science & Discovery are hosting several fun seasonal events: on January 4th, we have North Pole Explorers, at the Scout Hall, Nottage, a Family Fun Beach Event on Sunday 21st Jan 10.30 - 12.00 to celebrate The Year of the Sea – booking is essential. To book your place please contact claire@porthcawlharbourside.co.uk We also have a uniform groups free beach event on 14th January 10.00 - 12.00, please contact anne@porthcawl-harbourside.co.uk to book. Don’t forget that our interactive new website: www.porthcawlmaritimecentre.co.uk - is now live, with all the latest on Porthcawl Maritime Centre and SeaQuest Coastal Science and Discovery. Jayne Bowden

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Here we go again. Natwest has decided to close its branches in Porthcawl, Maesteg and Pencoed. Bank closures these days are relentless and unpitying – no arguments about the effect on the community, or the death of the high street or how older customers will cope seem to cut any ice. Over the years, I have made them, many times, to executives from our main banks who seem to take it in turns to announce a closure programme. In Wales, small towns are Nat West’s main target. They talk very airily of people being able to use the post office for many transactions. But have any bank officials seen the queues in town post offices lately? But we can’t give up. Access to banking services is too important for small businesses and people who are uncomfortable with online banking for a whole range of reasons. If you’re like me, it’s remembering all the passwords we seem to need these days. I’m meeting Nat West representatives shortly. I’ll pass on your thoughts. Please email them to suzy.davies@assembly.wales as soon as you can. SUZY DAVIES AM Welsh Conservative Party www.suzydavies.com

TAKING PORTHCAWL FORWARD Porthcawl Town Council is a community council and it consists of 19 unpaid Councillors who are elected every four or five years to represent the five wards within Porthcawl. Porthcawl Town Council meets on the second Thursday of every month except August. Meetings are open to the public; agendas and minutes, as well as the details of all 19 councillors, can be found on the Porthcawl Town Council website: http://www.porthcawltowncouncil.co.uk/ Community and town councils are the part of local government closest to the people. They serve the smallest area and are responsible for the most local of matters. Community and town councils have a number of basic responsibilities in making the lives of local communities more comfortable, many of which are often taken for granted. Essentially these powers fall within three main categories: (a) representing the whole electorate within the community; (b) delivering services to meet local needs; and (c) striving to improve quality of life in the community. Eleven of your 19 councillors belong to the ‘Porthcawl Independent Group’ - an umbrella name used to collectively identify these Independent Councillors who mutually support and endorse each other, working to improve Porthcawl for residents, businesses and visitors. As a group, we will endeavour to keep Porthcawl residents informed about all activity across town. You can find out more about our work, including our ‘Ten Pledges for Porthcawl’ on our Facebook page ‘Porthcawl Forward’. There are also specific Facebook pages for each of the five wards in Porthcawl. Please join us. Let’s take Porthcawl forward. Porthcawl Independent Group

have your say info@seasidenews.co.uk

WORK BEGINS ON THE ALL-NEW TOWN BEACH

FORMER OPENCAST TO BECOME A NEW NATURE HAVEN

One of the most prominent projects that you will see taking place in Porthcawl during 2018 will be the £3m replacement of the ‘tarmac beach’. Work has begun on the introduction of all-new sea defences which will feature a far more attractive terraced design along with a sand-coloured flat surface. The existing beach was installed in 1984 to protect 260 seafront properties and businesses from flooding and coastal erosion. Now that it has come to the end of its natural life, Bridgend County Borough Council has appointed Alun Griffiths as its contractor for designing and installing the new defences. As you might expect, this is a complicated marine engineering project and will take up to a year to complete, so every effort will be made to minimise inconvenience while the work is underway. The project will also deliver additional benefits, including new jobs and training opportunities, and local businesses and residents will soon have an opportunity to find out more at a special information event. The contractor will be issuing regular updates on the project, and don’t forget that you can also keep an eye on latest developments by visiting the community.alungriffiths.co.uk website and searching for Porthcawl town beach under the ‘projects’ section.

At last work is progressing at the former Margam opencast site near Cefn Cribwr so that it can reopen to the public. Old industrial structures are being removed, landscaping work is taking place and a new drainage system is ensuring that water levels remain safe. Trees, shrubs and grass have all been planted, and with the void converted into a lake that measures 700m at its widest point, the site is destined to become a green open space where nature can thrive. In fact, we are already seeing great crested newts, dormice and other species flourishing there. The site has been a major concern for residents of Kenfig Hill, Pyle and Cefn Cribwr. As the original restoration scheme was not carried out by Celtic Energy and landowners Oak Regeneration, Bridgend County Borough and Neath Port Talbot councils have been working together with Natural Resources Wales and the Coal Authority. As full restoration was not possible, our main priority has been to make it safe, avoid further coaling and help the 195 hectare site become a nature haven. With many public rights of way set to be fully reinstated by the end of 2018, you’ll soon be able to visit and see for yourself.

Councillor Charles Smith Cabinet Member for Education and Regeneration Bridgend County Borough Council 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk

NEW COMMUNITY ENERGY GROUP INAUGURAL MEETING January 25th, 7pm The Green Room, above SUSSED 4/5 James Street, Porthcawl CF36 3BG. More details www.sustainablewales. org.uk/events. All welcome. Can you help Sustainable Wales to establish a community energy group and build on the renewable energy work that is being undertaken within the Borough? The potential for community energy to democratize electricity supply, as highlighted by Sustainable Wales’ earlier Shine a Light campaign, https://www.sustainablewales.org.uk/shine-light is generally accepted. Many communities across the UK are considering how to capitalise on this, however, this isn’t yet happening in Bridgend. A study Opportunities for Community Renewable Energy Schemes in Rural Areas of Bridgend focused on identifying major users of energy in rural Bridgend and the potential for renewable energy generation around these users. The study is based on the premise that the local energy produced would then be sold directly to the user with less reliance on selling to the grid, maximising the benefits locally. The group needs all types of motivated talent as there is much to do and many ways of working. We look forward to an interesting evening. Margaret, Melanie, Richard, Edward and Geoff. For more info contact mm@sustainablewales.org.uk

Councillor Huw David Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council Tel 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk

NEW COMMUNITY FACILITIES IN PORTHCAWL AND CORNELLY Ongoing reductions in the amount of funding given to local councils has meant that for some time now, we’ve been coming up with new ways of providing services. Partnership with community and town councils has been a very important part of this new approach, and I am really pleased to see that it has resulted in several new improvements. In spring, public toilets at Griffin Park in Porthcawl will be completely refurbished and converted into ‘pay as you go’ facilities. This £70k project is being jointly funded by Bridgend County Borough Council and Porthcawl Town Council, with the town council taking on the future running of the toilets. As the facilities need to become self-financing to remain open, any surplus will be re-invested into other town council projects. Elsewhere, Cornelly Community Centre is receiving a £100,000 refurbishment which includes a brand new roof. The project is again being jointly funded with the management of the centre set to transfer to the community council once the works are complete. Both demonstrate how public services and facilities can be preserved through the innovative use of things like community asset transfers, and I’ll be bringing you details of further new developments throughout 2018. Councillor Hywel Williams Deputy Leader Bridgend County Borough Council Tel: 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk seaside news | 35

club features DOGS TRUST DOG OF THE MONTH

Wednesday is a sweet 4-year-old Greyhound. She is a sensitive girl and can be worried when first meeting people, so new owners would need to give her time to build up a relationship, but once she has settled in the home her true personality will shine through and she will make a lovely companion. Wednesday walks lovely on the lead and enjoys a good run off lead. After a nice walk she loves nothing more than curling up in her bed. She is looking for a quiet home where is she not being left for long hours and she could live with children 14 years and over. If you would like more information on Wednesday, please pop down to Dogs Trust Bridgend, CF31 4NG; or call 01656 725219. Also check out our website www.dogstrust.org.uk

Deadline date for the February 2018 issue: Monday 15th January NEWS FROM THE TALBOT COMMUNITY CENTRE Happy New Year to you all, and what a way to start the new year! The Talbot is delighted to announce it has bagged £3,000 from Tesco’s Bags of Help community grant scheme. Bags of Help is run in partnership with environmental charity Groundwork, and sees grants raised from the sale of carrier bags awarded to thousands of local community projects every year. Since launching in 2015, it’s provided more than £40 million to over 9,700 local community projects. Work will now begin on bringing the project to life. We plan to alter our walled garden, by clearing away all excess plants, painting the walls, and buying new garden pots to plant trees, shrubs and annuals. We hope to start immediately. On another vein, week one into 2018 and we have already planned three theatre trips, the first being soon, a trip to the pantomime, oh yes we have! Summertime we plan to see ‘An Officer and a Gentleman’ and nearer Christmas, ‘The Jersey Boys’ – all in Cardiff. Would you like to join us? Then contact me, Cheryl, on 01656 749754, email: talbotcc@ tiscali.co.uk or visit our website: www.talbotcc.co.uk Cheryl Butcher

36 | seaside news

21ST CENTURY YMCA Porthcawl YMCA is a long established and important part of our community. Many residents have fond memories of the Centre. Past members, now adults, often encourage their own children to join the YMCA. Visitors to the Centre comment on the dramatic and extensive transformation of the building, bright modern interiors replace the original rooms and offices, making the Y centre fit for the 21st Century. Although the renovation work has changed the Centre, the ethos and spirit of the organisation remains the same. We enthusiastically believe that the Y centre belongs at the heart of the community, creating a positive and progressive environment where people of all ages can learn, work and play. We have a large number of groups who use the Y centre; for art, Welsh, pilates, drama, pottery and U3A. We are also home to organisations such as Cartrefi Cymru, Mental Health Matters, Porthcawl Asperger`s, Bridges into Work, Food Banks and Craft Fairs, youth clubs, and a gaming club. Our holiday and after school clubs are still going strong after 15 years! If you have any memories or photos of the YMCA we would love to hear from you. Email: info@theycentre.com Find us on Facebook

THE DARK AGES When powerful volcanos such as Mount Agung in Indonesia erupt, enormous quantities of sulphur dioxide gas become suspended in the atmosphere and block some of the Sun’s light by reflecting it back into space. These high haze particles can cause a drop in temperature, which may last for several years. Chinese records show that a great number of fireballs and bright meteors were recorded during the period from 536 to 540 AD and there is evidence from ancient tree rings that Earth suffered from a rapid cooling effect at this time. Historical manuscripts claim that the Sun’s light was dimmed and appeared for just four hours a day. There were summer frosts, dust hung in the air and smoke from forest fires started by flaming meteorites contributed to the general darkness. Scientists believe that the situation was further exacerbated when, during 540 AD, an unusually large comet, the size of HaleBopp collided with our atmosphere and fragmented into tiny dust particles. Although there is no exact definition of when the era known as the “Dark Ages” began or ended, there is no doubt that the 6th and 7th centuries fall into that period. Clive Down FRAS

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THROUGH CHRISTIAN EYES One day I heard Jesus’s voice which led me to describe what happened in this poem. The poem has come in a two sections so please put them together. The Voice ‘part 2’ The voice, it would not force itself upon me. It gently asked me to invite him in. Who’s voice was it? Did it belong to somebody? In my suspense, I asked. Who is behind the voice? There was no other voice like it. It once again told me of love, a love so powerful nothing could stand in its way. It showed me a place of healing, of forgetting. A place I never thought existed. But I was wrong, oh, so very wrong. The voice said ‘Now is the time’. It showed me a way I had never seen before. Once again I asked ‘Who is behind the voice’? Then very gently I heard the most beautiful name. The name was Jesus. I had to respond. The voice took me into the future, a new start, a new beginning. The voice has been there since that day. It has never left me, and it never will. It will guide me all the days of my life. It will guide me always. It will guide me to heaven where, one day, I will see, face to face, Jesus, the man behind the voice. I pray this poem would give you a new start as you enter this new year! Neil Harvey

THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH The other day I was in a queue behind some women with very high standards. I could tell because nobody they talked about met them. They moaned about everything; from the teacher who gives too much or too little homework, to the roadworks that never seem to get finished; you name it nothing in our community met their standards. But we live in a pretty nice town. At least there’s someone repairing the cracks in the road, when all over the world there are communities without roads. And at least there are people teaching our children, when all over the world there are communities without schools. I disliked listening to these women not because I am any better than them, but because I have been there myself. Sometimes, we all get swept up in that sort of drama and pile our complaints on top of others’ until, by the end, we’ve all convinced each other that our situation is intolerable. Whenever I take part in those conversations, I leave feeling like I am a person of unclean lips, living among a people of unclean lips. God Bless Rev Lewis Rees Nottage General Baptist & Unitarian Chapel

TOOLS FOR SELF RELIANCE Tools for Africa

A few weeks before Christmas a group of volunteers visited the main workshops in Southampton accompanied by Bob of Mobility Scooters who kindly transported 15 crates of tools in his van comprising building, carpentry and automechanic kits allocated to Zambia and Uganda. Our picture shows Abdul Mannon who lives in a village in Ghana about to open a big box which has arrived before Christmas, and there is great anticipation as it is his. His village now has electricity. He has been trained as an electrician by our Training Partner NORSAAC. Also in health awareness because of aids and how to run a business. Moreover he will have contributed a small amount for the tools and that money has gone back into the training programme. He lifts himself out of poverty. That is why Tools for Self Reliance is a very remarkable and worthwhile charity which is not patronizing. Due to shortage of space we only want tools for various trades, no household effects, no hardwear and no gardening tools except spades for our building kits. Happy new year! John Hanson Group Coordinator Tel: 01656786367

NATIONAL COASTWATCH INSTITUTION – PORTHCAWL Some 18 months after opening, we are pleased to announce that we successfully passed our two-day assessment allowing us to hold DFS or ‘Declared Facility Status’ for H.M. Coastguard’s Operations Centre at Milford Haven. We can now be officially recognised as part of the Maritime Search and Rescue emergency services. This is a pivotal moment for our station as we formally ‘come of age!’ The Co-Op Local Community Fund made us one of their three chosen charities for the last six months. On the 25th November we were invited to the Co-Op Food shops at Porthcawl and Newton to receive a cheque for just over £6,000. Thank you so much to both shops and their customers! In November 2017 we logged and monitored 128 Commercial vessels, 153 Leisure vessels, 1 Military vessel and 29 other categories. Our busiest day was Sunday 5th November when we logged and monitored 2 commercial vessels, 24 leisure vessels, 6 other category and dealt with 1 monitored incident. 430 hours watchkeeping were undertaken during November. We dealt with one logged incident and monitored 6 others during the month. Eight trainees have now started watches with their mentors as they progress through their training programme. Nick Weedon, Media Officer, Porthcawl NCI seaside news | 37

club features YOUNG PORTHCAWL FAMILY SELL EVERYTHING TO TRAVEL THE WORLD

Spontaneous Clare Fisher and husband Ian are taking their two children out of school and plan to document their globe-trotting adventures online. Clare and Ian decided to make a change after two people who were close to them passed away. The young family said, “life’s too short”. After the death of a family member and a close friend we just looked at each other one day and said “why don’t we just do it?” said Clare, who is mum to daughter Maddison, three and son Kallan, five. The couple, from Porthcawl, are saving every penny they can and have started getting rid of everything from the family car to handbags. The first leg of their trip will see them visit Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, The Philippines, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, Australia and Fiji. The Fisher family – who are also known as Travel The World Family – will be documenting their journey on their YouTube channel, via Instagram at @traveltheworldfamily and on Facebook at TTWFamilyofficial.

LIFE WITH PORTHCAWL LIONS December was a busy time for us with the Grotto at the Museum, the elderly tea party at Trinity, which everyone seems to enjoy including us Lions. We provide the entertainment, which included a sing-a-long to Christmas carols accompanied by our very own talented orchestra, which I am sure with a lot of practice we could go far, but not too far out of Porthcawl, I might add. Boxing Day saw the Fun Run and another good turn out this year. We would like to thank the Hi Tide who let us use their facilities on the day and also allow us to hold our meetings there twice a month. We will be back there for our annual Burns Supper which has proven a huge success over the last few years. The date is Friday 26th January @7pm tickets £25 available from The Museum or from any Lion. Music is being provided by Judith Shaw and the piper John Campbell. The raffle on the night in aid of Porthcawl Museum. Entry is by ticket only and the dress code is black tie & tartan. We do hope that you can come and join us for a very enjoyable, fun evening. You can get further details of any event we hold from our website. We would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year and to thank you for your continued support which enables us to do amazing things for others. For more information on events please check our website for details: porthcawllions.org.uk Sonia Wilkinson Tel: 01656 772374 38 | seaside news

promote your club info@seasidenews.co.uk

TRINITY CHURCH Our first Nativity Crib Festival was held on the first weekend in December. It was well attended and popular with Porthcawl residents, old and young. Many people hoped it would become a regular event and felt it displayed the true meaning of Christmas. Over 50 cribs were displayed. These included wooden cribs from the Holy Land, family favourites and delightful home made creations from local groups. The festival closed with the blessing of the Trinity Crib at the Area Advent Service, followed by tea and cakes in the hall. The Junior Band, Saturday Teen Disco and monthly Bible Study will continue in the New Year. We wish all readers a happy, healthy and blessed 2018. Please consult our website for detailed information about all our events and Services at www.trinitychurchporthcawl.org Alison Thomas, Communication Secretary

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 2017 Rotary in Porthcawl would like to give a big ‘thank you’ to everyone involved in the Christmas Tree Festival last December and for making it such a success. The Club is always grateful to the people who live in and around Porthcawl for the support given to their Christmas activities and all who came to All Saints Church were treated to a winter wonderland of trees and lights. There were trees from all walks of Porthcawl life – schools, churches, clubs, organisations and societies – each tree was festooned with decorations that were pertinent to the groups they represented. Mince pies and hot drinks and a chance to win one of four Christmas hampers were available throughout each day of the festival and there were several evenings with entertainment showcasing local talent. One evening saw the first round of the Rotary Young Musician competition with a high standard of vocal and instrumental expertise on display. Following this was an evening of Christmas cheer with local school choirs, musicians and local mixed choir, Sounds Familiar. If you missed the event, make sure you watch for details later in the year for the Christmas Tree Festival 2018 – it’s sure to be even better! Ivor Williams

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legal advice

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RISK TO INCOME DRAWDOWN PLAN In April 2015, legislation was introduced which changed how pensions could be drawn at retirement. These changes have encouraged more people to look at using an Income Drawdown plan to keep their pension invested and to take the income they need directly from the pension pot. A suitable Income Drawdown plan could keep the saver’s pension pot intact right up to the time of their death; at which point it can be passed onto beneficiaries. However, despite the positives of drawing a pension in this manner, there is as we see it a risk which should be managed carefully. If a retiree decides to keep their pension pot invested and to draw their income from the pot, there is a growing risk of the retiree becoming physically incapable and/or losing their mental capacity – whilst their pension is still invested, producing income and requires “managing”. Even a spouse can struggle to properly control these matters. It can be complicated, timely and could result in court intervention at a high cost. Fortunately the simple step we would advise you to take is to prepare a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). This is a legal document which provides for one or more people to make decisions on the individual’s behalf. It comes into effect should the individual become incapacitated and unable to manage their own affairs, at some point in the future.

SolicitorS • cyfreithwyr ConveyanCing Moving House? We offer a friendly and efficient service at a fixed price with all the work carried out by a qualified Solicitor Contact Mike greenway for more information and a written quotation Wills & Probate Computerised Wills service Wills prepared while you wait – only one appointment usually required Contact Mike greenway for more information

16 Well Street, Porthcawl CF36 3BE tel: 01656 788823 Fax: 01656 786781 email: porthcawl@whittinghams.co.uk Web: www.whittinghams.co.uk Offices also at 5–7 Court Road, Bridgend CF31 1BE Tel: 01656 653485

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At Melanie Lazarus and Co Family Solicitors we specialise in all aspects of family law including divorce, cohabitation, finances and children issues. We will also prepare your will for a fixed fee.

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LPS’s are not only utilised in respect of Pension Drawdown, but in all aspects of financial management such as paying utility bills, writing cheques and/or selling property. Directors of companies or sole traders should also consider the benefits of business LPA’s. Any LPA introduced should be professionally written, by a specialist, because it is a document which may need to cover many different situations and used in different ways under different circumstances. The wording of the LPA should be precise to cover the exact powers you wish to give to your attorneys. In summary, the new pension rules open many fresh opportunities for those coming up to retirement and looking to draw on their pensions, financial advice should be taken to explore all your options. An LPA (properly written) will protect against issues should this ill health cause the individual to lose their ability to manage their own affairs. Call 01656 772211 or visit www.djm.law.co.uk

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seaside news | 41

women’s institutions

email your report info@seasidenews.co.uk

SOROPTIMIST CHRISTMAS TREE

PORTHCAWL INNER WHEEL

Bridgend Soroptimists continued with their tradition entering a Tree in the Christmas Tree Festival at Nolton Church. The club’s chosen theme this year was the Meru Project which supports women in Kenya in growing provisions for their families, and talented Club members spent many hours creating delightful decorations depicting the food items which are now being enjoyed by these less fortunate people. The goodies on the tree looked good enough to eat and provided a vibrant and colourful truly festive display. The finals of Brownies Have Talent were held at Brackla Tabernacle Church. The judges complimented the entrants on the high standard of their varied talents and after much deliberation awarded 1st Prize to ‘Imogen the Incredible’ from Porthcawl who entertained with her awesome Magic Tricks. More information on the work of Soroptimists can be found on: www.sigbi.org/bridgend-and-district Eileen Bailey

Hello everyone, it’s January already! What a busy year 2017 was. Inner Wheel was involved with the Rotary Christmas Tree festival at All Saints Church. We would like to thank all members who gave so much of their time and effort to help with the organising the event. Our Christmas Fair at Trinity Church was very well attended. The goods made by the ladies of IW sold very well, as did the cakes. Many of the group enjoyed the Glousceter Christmas fair trip, which was organized by Diane Richardson. We had our Christmas dinner after our meeting, and all agreed that the food at the Grove Golf club was delicious. The child in us was satisfied by the games that were organised by our president Mary Morgan. We have many more events arranged for the coming year and we would welcome your company and friendship in 2018. We wish you all health. happiness and prosperity! Suzanne Jefferies

PORTHCAWL TOWNSWOMENS GUILD NEWS A very happy and healthy new year to you all! Recently we welcomed Mr John Sheen to our meeting telling us about ‘Three men and a Pasty’ - a hilarious account of his childhood evoking many memories for us - Friday night Syrup of Figs among them! At our recent committee meeting we were looking ahead to 2018 and arranging dates for a coffee meeting and our birthday lunch and all our various groups, craft, literary, games and luncheon group will be back in action. We took part in the Christmas Tree Festival in All Saints Church when our tree was beautifully decorated by Freda Rodger, helped by Dee Richardson, emphasising our 700th guild meeting in December. This months meeting is on January 10th 2pm at All Saints Church Hall, when Elfed and Sheila Pugh will be telling us about ‘Mercy Ships’. Your New Year Resolution must be to come and visit our friendly organisation! Dorothy Thomas Tel: (01656) 772157

LALESTON WI We held our December meeting on 7th which was our Christmas meeting. We started with a quiz arranged by Rosemary Dwyer, which was followed by a lovely buffet supplied by all members - the table groaning as normal as we have such generous members. The twelve days of Christmas was then sung by all followed by many raffles members were dressed in a festive theme and it was a lovely fun evening and all members went home with a smile on their faces. All were wished a good Christmas and New Year by President Diane Marshall. Our next meeting will be on 4th January at the Blandy Hall, Laleston. New members will be most welcome - we meet at 7.15pm. Contact Diane on 01656 656600 42 | seaside news

NEWTON WI December 6th was our Carol Service, once again officiated by the Rev. Colin Richards. It was a beautiful service with readings, poems and carols and of course minced pies to complete the evening. The long awaited trip to Abbey-Cwm-Hir took place on November 22nd. What a stunning house, 52 rooms full of fascinating collectables, every room a treasure trove. On the way we stopped for lunch at the Builth Wells Golf Club, where we received a wonderful welcome and the most delicious food. Thank you to the Ladies Craft Group for so beautifully decorating our Christmas Tree at All Saints Church. Once again the trees made an amazing display. On December 4th at the Brangwyn Hall, Swansea the GFWI massed choir held their Christmas Carol Service. The singing of the Choir and Soloists was superb, everyone enjoyed. Why not join us in the New Year at Gilgal Church Hall, Woodland Avenue, on the first Wednesday of every month at 7pm. M Freeman

MYNYDD CYNFFIG WI I hope that you all had a good Christmas and a happy new year. We are all looking forward to 2018 to the many outings. Walks, talks and demonstrations that the Federation has arranged for us. Our WI is also busy with crafts and scrabble and January gives us the chance to get up-to-date with all our members after the holidays. The meeting of members once a month is a great tonic to all. We can have a laugh or a cry, and we are all the better for it. Call in - we meet on the 2nd Tuesday of the month in the Talbot Centre, Kenfig Hill from 2pm till 4.30pm. You are assuredly of a warm welcome, plus we do a great cup of tea with biscuits! Christine Callaghan

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business & finance NEW YEAR – ARE YOU READY FOR IT? Well, hopefully you had a very good Christmas 2017 and here we are again at the start of another New Year, one which will certainly define the immediate future of the UK and we wonder what awaits us, in many ways. Let’s hope it’s good to us all. It’s also the start of a fresh period to sort out the finances and I thought that I should highlight the need for the later life sector of the population to know that there are solutions especially geared for them and needs later in life. There will be a number of you that still have a mortgage that you need to pay off or you may need a new scheme if you are not ready to redeem yet. An increasing number of lenders are now offering schemes for the benefit of the over-60s, some involving mortgages to age 85 years old or similar schemes under the lifetime mortgage banner, sometimes referred to as equity release. We have received several calls recently from people who have already got equity release but are paying much higher rates than are now available. One recent lady enquirer was paying an interest rate of 7.9%, whereas now she could have a rate of around 4.5%, a substantial decrease. I must stress that not everyone will be able to benefit from a lower rate, depending on their individual circumstances but finding out costs nothing and could well be a call well made. Many lenders now also allow partial repayments without early penalties, so any roll-up arrangement could be changed for something better. If you have good pension income, ongoing, then a number of lenders now allow a repayment mortgage over an affordable period. Now, for those of you still looking to get on the ladder or indeed looking to help someone get on the ladder, we may well be able to assist you in finding the right solution. A call to our office is all it takes and we’ll do the research for you. Call 01656 782545 today and let us know your needs. Happy New Year!

· Never owe more than your house is worth · No proof of income is required · Option of a single lump sum or smaller drawdowns as and when required Seeking professional independent financial advice before signing up to a Lifetime mortgage is essential, due to the fact that your estate value, state benefits and tax position could be affected. Abacus Assurance can provide advice after reviewing your circumstances to establish if a lifetime mortgage is suitable. To book a free consultation call: 01656 772222. Abacus Assurance FS Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. A lifetime mortgage is secured against your home.

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UNLOCK THE EQUITY FROM YOUR HOME An increasingly common scenario many retired people find themselves facing is that they are asset rich but income poor. With the cost of living continuously rising, many people find themselves with most of their wealth tied up in their property. Lifetime mortgage schemes can put the wealth back into your own hands without having to sell your home. All the money released is completely tax free! You can use the funds to do with as you wish. It could be used to renovate your home, boost your retirement income, help your loved ones with an early inheritance or book the holiday of your dreams. The choice is entirely yours. With a lifetime mortgage the interest on the sum you’ve released builds up over your lifetime and will typically be repaid out of the proceeds of your estate. Summary of Lifetime Mortgage features: · Unlock your money and stay in the home you love · Retain full property ownership · Pay no interest until you die or move

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Keri Harvey trading as Dragon Financial Services is an Appointed Representative of the On-Line Partnership Limited, which is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Think carefully about securing other debts against your home. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or any other debt secured against it. For investments, the value of units can fall as well as rise and you may not get back all your original investment. For pensions, this is a long term investment. The fund value may fluctuate and can go down. Your eventual income may depend on the size of the fund at retirement, future interest rates and tax legislation.

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www.abacusassurance.co.uk | Email : info@abacusassurance.com seaside news | 45

gardening advice PORTHCAWL ALLOTMENT WELCOMES THE FIRST MINISTER

The Wilderness Allotments (part of Bridgend County Allotment Association), was recently recognised for its community work across Bridgend County Borough with two awards. The prestigious International Allotment Award - issued by the Council of Europe, and a Green Flag Community Award from Keep Wales Tidy. First Minister Rt Hon Carwyn Jones AM took the opportunity to learn more about the awards when he was the guest of the Association recently at an informal event hosted by Trinity Care and Support at Trinity Church Porthcawl. Refreshments included a range of delicious cakes made by Margaret Minhinnick, (Director of Sussed and Sustainable Wales). Trinity Care and Support described how valuable the community/disabled gardening facility at Wilderness had become to their service users in terms of health & wellbeing. They looked forward to spending more time at the allotment once the disabled toilet was built. Also in attendance were a teacher and three pupils from Porthcawl Comprehensive School History Club, who are working on a project about growing and cooking allotment produce during the Great War. If readers can assist with the disabled toilet project in any way, please contact the allotment secretary by email on: saulat. abbasi@btinternet.com Photography by David Swidenbank Mole Catcher & Lawn

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LALESTON GARDENING CLUB NEWS Here we are in the coldest months of the year, with the festive season over, it is easy to feel a bit gloomy. However for us gardeners it is full of anticipation and excitement as the new gardening year is nearly upon us! The seed catalogues are probably looking a bit dog-eared from the regular page turning. However all that pondering and decision making is now being put into action with seed and plant orders being completed – either on line or written out by hand and put into the ‘snail mail’ system. In the club, everyone is looking forward to the delivery of the fresh compost to our club shop next month. As soon as it arrives it will fly off the pallets and into our greenhouses where the bags can warm up a bit before the serious fun of seed sowing and plant growing can begin again. In our gardens we are keeping a careful eye on the weather forecasts and putting out additional plant protection if the temperatures are predicted to fall well below freezing. Those of us with ponds also ensure that they do not freeze over completely as the lack of oxygen could be disastrous for both fish and wildlife. Joyce Pegg lalestongardenclub.co.uk

CEFN CRIBWR GARDENING CLUB Happy New Year – May all your troubles last as long as your New Year resolutions! There isn’t much to do outdoors when the soil is rock-hard but a job that will save you time later is spreading manure or compost. It’s okay to walk on the soil when it’s frozen, and it’s so much easier to push a wheelbarrow over. On your winter rambles round the garden take a hoe with you and attack the baby weeds, this too will save you time in the spring (you’ll be glad you did!) Clear dead leaves from around plants and hedges as they give lovely hidey-holes for slugs and snails to winter hide in –believe me they are just lying in wait! Do this gently though as there may be hedgehogs hibernating under there as well. Don’t forget to water the containers (if needed) that are up against a wall - they may be protected from all this lovely rain! Also check stored bulbs and tubers for signs of deterioration before it spreads! Did you know the Anglo Saxons called January “Wuffmonath” as it was the month hungry wolves came scavenging to people’s doors (doesn’t happen in Cefn!) Chris Early

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health & wellbeing ‘KINDNESS’ AS A MIND BODY PROCESS Try the following exercise. Sit quietly and simply notice your breathing. When the mind wanders into thought, flow your attention back to the breath. Once the mind is sensing calm. Slowly but surely raise and open your arms outwards and smile, hold your smile softly. Feel your cheek muscles raise as you smile, take two deep breaths and drop your shoulders. In your heart area notice what happens. Can you describe the bodily process or name the emotion? The attention to this process may provide you with the verifiable knowledge that such connection can be a resource for wellbeing. Considering your own meditation practice. There are many opportunities for the connection of bodily movements and wholesome states of mind. For example. Putting the hands together in a prayer position – symbolic of mind body connection. Opening the hands and giving to someone –attentional generosity can be known. Placing the hand on the chest area – when compassion arises in tough challenging circumstances. Placing the hand outwards in a position of restraint – when the mind requires restraint and control. Experiment with your hands and acknowledge the effect. The goal with these exercise is to be able to identify the arising emotion (through meditation) and then rehearse it with the correct body movement. Such pattern matching creates a loop that can access deeper innate resources. Such resource is available at any time. You may also notice that certain hand gestures cause you more, mind made irritation, but hey, let’s not point the finger! Neville Evans

MAGNESIUM Magnesium’s role in protecting against heart disease cannot be overstressed. It is well-known that even the accelerated ageing of the heart muscle experienced by those in long space flight is due to magnesium deficiency. In 2010, the Journal of Biomedical Sciences reported that cardiovascular risks are significantly lower in individuals who excrete higher levels of magnesium, indicating its protective role. Another study published in the journal Atherosclerosis in 2011 found that low serum magnesium concentrations predict cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Remember that when you are looking to ‘supplement’ your diet with magnesium go green. Chlorophyl is green because it has a magnesium atom at its centre. Kale, for example, is far better a source of complex nutrition than magnesium supplements but failing the culinary approach, magnesium supplements can be highly effective at attaining a therapeutic and/or cardioprotective dose. Taken from www.greenmedinfo.com Supplied by Glyn Hardwicke

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seaside news | 49

arts & music A FILM MAKER’S POINT OF VIEW One of the biggest advances in the design of the movie camera was made in the early 1930s by German engineers August Arnold and Robert Richter with their concept of the spinning mirror shutter, mounted at 45º to the film axis. It permitted reflex viewing, where the viewfinder shows exactly the image being photographed on the film. Arriflex cameras are still in use today and their optical viewfinders employ exactly the same principle. However, for sheer inventiveness in camera design, I believe first prize must go to the Eclair CM3 Cameflex, which uses the same mirror shutter idea, but goes much further with its outstanding innovative features. The Cameflex is a classic French movie camera, designed in 1947. Due to its unusual design, it was highly portable and extremely flexible in the way it could be used, and was rapidly adopted by the ‘New Wave’ cinema of that period. Speaking from first-hand experience, it is eminently suitable for handheld operation and I used it extensively in the shooting of ‘Ghosts of Glamorgan’ – take a look at the last shot in the film’s trailer on Youtube. More about this wonderful camera next month. Anthony Hontoir Downwood Films Tel: 07510 934299 Photo: Eclair CM3 Cameflex

STAG’S WORLD OF ROCK Hope you had a fine Xmas? As always, at the start of the year, I look to see what’s on the music horizon. The good news is that there’s plenty to look forward to for the diary. Bridgend’s Hobos Music Venue has American rockers Anvil there on 17th February, The Stereophonics play Cardiff Motorpoint Arena on 6th/7th March, and one of my favourite rock bands, Magnum, featuring vocalist Bob Catley, are at Cardiff’s Tramshed on 21st February. On the local front, I get calls asking why I don’t often mention cover acts. Well, the whole object of the column is to push original talent. There are plenty of good cover groups like The Guzzards, Evil Turkeys and The Electric Company, but original acts need the exposure as they can’t play the pub scene! I’ve spent three decades writing, touring and playing my own music and been lucky to have largely missed the pub circuit. When I produced my radio show, promoting new talent for three years, I like to think that I helped some acts up the ladder which I hope I do with my articles. In my bedroom studio there’s a sign that says INNOVATE NOT IMITATE! It’s a motto I still follow. Stag Marks 07549 728356 Photo: Stag and Magnum’s Bob Catley 50 | seaside news

A MAGICAL EVENING

The Mid Glamorgan Savoyards held their audience spellbound with their recent production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s ‘Iolanthe’. The opening entrance of the fairies and their queen - with its unexpected robust dancing and singing, rather than delicate tripping and sweet tones - set the tone for an evening of fun and topical jokes. (What do ‘Corbynista legs’ look like, I wonder?) The Peers are satirised frequently, making remarks such as “I have a great respect for brains. I wish I had some myself.” We are all familiar now with the excellent leading singers, who bring polish and energy to their roles. This production saw more of the larger groups on stage, fairies and peers playing each other off and providing a lively contrast with their costumes and dancing. Congratulations must go to the Stage Director, Rob Reynolds, who also played the role of Lord Chancellor. The large orchestra also played its part in the seamless performance, under the baton of Musical Director, Roger Hudd. All proceeds go to charity and so far nearly £2,500 have been raised for Kidney Research, Cancer Relief, Save the Children and Baby Loss Charity. Once again, a successful and enjoyable evening. Dominique Spearey

CÔR DYSGWYR PORTHCAWL - WELSH LEARNERS’ CHOIR After a short autumn break, the choir will soon be making plans for 2018. There will be practices and performances scheduled over the coming months and the focus will then be on competing in the National Eisteddfod in Cardiff Bay in August. The choir gained third place in Abergavenny in 2016 and they will be aiming for success again this year. The choir is a friendly group of people from Porthcawl and surrounding areas who enjoy singing in the Welsh language. We are currently seeking new members who would enjoy singing in Welsh, tenors and basses especially welcome. If you would like further information from the Secretary of Côr Dysgwyr Porthcawl, the contact email is: cordporthcawl@gmail. com Irene Collier

Deadline date for the February 2018 issue: Monday 15th January

email your article info@seasidenews.co.uk

BRIDGEND MALE CHOIR IN CONCERT WITH ST MARY’S RC SCHOOL CHOIR

PYLE & PORTHCAWL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

The first Friday in December saw Bridgend Male Choir in concert raising funds for St Mary’s RC Church. This annual event continues to delight and while the format remains similar, fresh faces and content make it one to look forward to and this year’s offering was no exception. The Concert was a resounding success with Bridgend Male Choir, under the guidance of Stephanie Bailey and Stewart Roberts, providing the backdrop for the children of St Mary’s RC School Choir, along with Maesteg soprano Rhian Hughes and organist Scott Williams. A near capacity audience was entertained by the Choir who put on a celebration of music with seasonal offerings. Chorister & narrator, Dr Peter Morgan added to the entertainment with a reading from Dylan Thomas’ ‘A Child’s Christmas in Wales’ and Compere Gareth Davies kept the evening moving with his usual light humour - but the stars of the show were the children - the wonderful children’s choir of St Mary’s Catholic School under the leadership of Gillian Weale. Martin Cadogan

We recently held our annual Dennis Lines Memorial Competition. Each member submitted four entries as either digital images or prints and the event was expertly judged by Les Loosemore. Congratulations to Richard Craze for winning the competition with his excellent print ‘Volkswagen in the Rain’. We welcome new members of all ages and skill levels, so if you have an interest in photography why not come along and join us on Thursday evenings at 7:30pm at St Clare’s School, Newton. Our programme is available at: www.pyle-porthcawl-ps.co.uk Geoff Baker

PORTHCAWL MALE CHOIR The choir have enjoyed a very busy and successful Christmas period having entertained the residents at the Prince Albert Masonic Home in Porthcawl, The Porthcawl Stroke Club at the Grove Golf Club and the Annual RNLI Concert at All Saints Church in Porthcawl. To end the year the choir were invited to sing at Beth and Mike’s wedding blessing service when the couple renewed their wedding vows. The focus now turns to 2018 and the busy schedule of events. The choir, who are proving to be very popular at weddings, are already booked to sing at a number of weddings throughout the area. The choir are also performing at the Porthcawl Comprehensive School Eisteddfod in March after the success of last year. There is a tour to Bruges and Ghent organised for late May which the choristers are looking forward to and a concert at the International Law School in Cardiff on 26 June. The choir would like to thank everyone who has supported them at events in 2017 and look forward to meeting everyone again in 2018. The choir would like to welcome any prospective new members to their fold and everyone is assured of a very warm and enthusiastic welcome. Mal Evans Public Relations Officer

seaside news | 51

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52 | seaside news

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www.oldschoolhouse.org.uk seaside news | 53

what’s on PRINCE OF WALES COURT BOWLING CLUB, PORTHCAWL We a currently recruiting experienced and novice bowlers. The Club is located on Penylan Avenue and has excellent Bowling and Social facilities. Please contact the Secretary if you are interested in joining. Graham Evans. Tel: 01656 782928.

Monday A TASTE OF YOGA, PORTHCAWL For all ages and abilities. 1.30-3pm at Stella Maris Catholic Church Hall New Road Porthcawl.For more information contact Angela Rock 07980 936198 or Email: angelarock11@hotmail.com GLAMORGAN FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY, BRIDGEND BRANCH Meet 3rd Monday of each month at the Len Evans Centre, Aberkenfig. 7pm for 7.30pm. All welcome. www. glamfhs.org.uk Tel: 01656 862762. HATHA YOGA CLASS, PORTHCAWL Mixed ability class, including novices. All are welcome. 7.30-9.00pm at Awel-y-mor Centre, Porthcawl. For more information contact Carol Curtis-Jones, British Wheel of Yoga. Tel: 01656 773266 or Email: carol. yogi@aol.co.uk KEYBRA (YOUNG KEYBOARD FUN) BRIDGEND Group keyboard lessons for 4-9 year olds. Well known songs, taught with games and movement for a fun learning experience. Classes are 4pm - 7pm. Free tasters available. Visit keybra.co.uk MONKEY MUSIC, BRIDGEND & COWBRIDGE Award winning classes for children ages 3 months to 4 years. First class FREE. @ Heronston Hotel and Bijou Cowbridge. Other days and venues available. Please book via Emma 01656 649190. Vale.bridgend@ monkeymusic.co.uk www.monkeymusic.com PILATES / YOGA, PORTHCAWL 6.30pm-7.30pm at The Y Centre. Mat required. Flexibility, postural alignment and core strength from 14yrs with Hannah Bowen. Registered Exercise Professional 07886 487853 see Facebook Porthcawl Fitness Classes. PORTHCAWL CHORAL SOCIETY PRACTICE @ Trinity Church ‘ celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2016’ 7.15–9.15pm. Mixed voice choir. New members welcome. 01656 784211 Porthcawl & Cynffig Karate Club Classes in Cynffig Comprehensive School Sports Hall 4.30 - 7pm. First Month Free Training. Call Chris on 07784 317151 or Mark 01656 784391. PORTHCAWL GYMNASTICS (TERM TIME ONLY) are now running their classes at The Community Sports Hall, Park Ave. Please email me for information on: porthcawl.gymnastics@gmail.com

54 | seaside news

Slimming World, Porthcawl @ Gilgal Church Hall, Woodland Ave, Porthcawl. 5.30pm and 7.30pm. Tel Bev: 07912 172674 SUN STYLE NEIJIA, PORTHCAWL Classical Tai Chi 10am to 11am - £3. Bagua & Xing Yi 11am to 12 noon £2. Sword forms for all three Neijia. @ Awel Y Mor Centre, Porthcawl. For more information or details of our other classes ring 784991. Email: sunporthcawl@yahoo.co.uk THE SWIM SCHOOL, BRIDGEND Children’s small group & 1:1 lessons at Heronsbridge School Pool. Contact: Anne 01656 772725 or 07920 796637.

Tuesday ADULT AQUA FIT CLASS, PORTHCAWL Splashland, Trecco Bay Holiday Park, Porthcawl. Starts 7pm. Classes run school term times only. Last class 2017: December 12th. Resumes: March 6th, 2018. Call Diane 07966 529417. A TASTE OF YOGA, PORTHCAWL For all ages and abilities. 6.30- 8pm at Stella Maris Catholic Church Hall New Road Porthcawl. For more information contact Angela Rock 07980 936198 or Email: angelarock11@hotmail.com HANDBELL RINGING, PORTHCAWL Would you like play handbells? We meet Tuesday and Thursday in Newton Institute Basic music knowledge an advantage plus commitment and rhythm. Would you like to learn?. Call Tim 07749254131. HATHA YOGA CLASS, PORTHCAWL @ the YMCA on John Street, Porthcawl. Mixed ability class, so all levels welcome. 10– 11.30am. For more info contact Michele 07793 544 956 email: michelelambert21@hotmail.com www.michelelambertyoga.co.uk KOREAN KARATE, PORTHCAWL TANG SOO DO @ All Saints Church hall, Victoria Avenue, Porthcawl. Martial arts for the whole family. Tiger Tots: 4–6yrs: 6–6.30pm; Dragons: 7–12 yrs 6.30–7.30pm; Adults: 13yrs+: 7.30–8.30pm. Tel 07788 482450 email: porthcawltangsoodo@sky.com Website : www.traditionaltsdfed.org Also on Fridays. LEARN TO ROCK N ROLL 50’s STYLE, KENFIG HILL @Kenfig Hill Rugby Club, Pisgah Street, CF33 6BU. Dance Lesson 8.15-9pm.Rock n Roll disco til 10.30pm. Entrance £5. contact Frank 07400 080101 or email. franklngfrd@gmail.com First dance lesson free.

MONKEY MUSIC PORTHCAWL & BRIDGEND Award winning classes for children ages 3 months to 4 years. First class FREE. @ Jump Jam, Bridgend. Other days and venues available. Please book via Emma 01656 649190. Vale. bridgend@monkeymusic.co.uk www.monkeymusic.com PORTHCAWL MALE CHOIR Choir Practice between 7.30pm and 9.30pm at Arlington Road Church, Porthcawl. New choristers always welcome. Choir available for weddings and Charity events. Website: www.porthcawlmalechoir. co.uk Contact Mal Evans on 07773 622537. Slimming World, Porthcawl @ Gilgal Church Hall, Woodland Ave, Porthcawl. 9.30am. Tel Bev: 07912 172674 SLIMTONE SLIMMING CLASS, BRIDGEND @ Sainsburys Coffee Shop, Bridgend, 5.00pm - 6.30pm. Contact Marie on 01656 870339. St John Ambulance Porthcawl We meet at Trinity Church, Porthcawl. Badgers & Cadets 6:00 7:30pm (Ages 5-17). Adults 7:30pm (Ages 16+). Contact 07861 600667 or Email jack.bridger1@porthcawl. sjaw.org.uk TABERNACL MUSIC SOCIETY, BRIDGEND Mixed choir practice, 7-8.45pm @ Tabernacl Chapel, Derwen Rd, Bridgend. New choristers welcome. Contact 01656 665393. www.cor-tabernacl-choir.co.uk

Wednesday COR BRO OGWR, BRIDGEND Mixed choir @ Tabernacl Church, Derwen Road, Bridgend. 7–9pm. All welcome. 01656 784180. www.CorBro-Ogwr.com JOLLY JOY’S QUIZ NIGHT, PORTHCAWL At The Jolly Sailor Pub, Newton 9pm every Wednesday. LAWN BOWLS, KENFIG HILL & PYLE ‘Bowled Over’ bowls club meets at the Kenfig Hill and Pyle bowl club at 2.15pm. New members, any age, experienced or novice, ladies and gentlemen are very welcome. Ask for Dave, Richard or Brenda. Also on Friday and Sunday. Call Dave on 01656 749614/ 07500 945752 or Richard 07583 865366. MONKEY MUSIC, BRIDGEND & COWBRIDGE Award winning classes for children ages 3 months to 4 years. First class FREE. @ Trinity Church Porthcawl and Bijou Cowbridge. Other days and venues available. Please book via Emma 01656 649190. Vale. bridgend@monkeymusic.co.uk www.monkeymusic.com

OIL PAINTING CLASSES, PORTHCAWL @ The Y Centre, Johns St. 10am1pm. Paint along with tuition. All materials available. Contact Derek 07717 948781/01656 857106. PORTHCAWL ART SOCIETY We are looking for new members. We meet every Wednesday afternoon and Thursday evenings at the Old Police Station. Gallery open most days 11am to 4pm. Tel: 01656 767611, email: art@porthcawltown. co.uk PORTHCAWL FLORAL ARRANGEMENT SOCIETY Interested in becoming a flower arranger? Alternate Wednesdays at Awel-Mor Centre, Porthcawl. Doors open at 6.30pm. Tel: 01656 649585 PORTHCAWL STROKE CLUB From 2pm-4pm at the Masonic Lodge Home, Pen-y-Lan Avenue, Porthcawl. A warm welcome awaits for new members, free taxi transport for the less mobile. Contact Keith and Mary Duggan (01656) 773376. SLIMTONE SLIMMING CLASS, TONDU @ Tondu Cricket Club 5.15-6.15pm. Contact Marie on 01656 870339 for further information. SLIMMING WORLD, PORTHCAWL @ Trinity Church. 9.30am–11am. Call Bev 07912 172674 Yoga @ Parc Slip Nature Reserve, Tondu Beginners class: 5.45pm till 7pm. Mixed Ability class: 7.15pm till 8.30pm. Contact - Michele on 07793 544 956. For all weekly class listings www.michelelambertyoga.co.uk

Thursday BCDP PARA DANCE CLUB, PENCOED BCDP Para Dance Club sessions are adult inclusive dance classes, whatever your ability / disability “Everyone can dance”. During school term time 11:00-13:00 at Pencoed Social Club, Hendre Road, Pencoed, Bridgend. £1.50 per class. Contact Louise Bowman 07971 497439 for details. BRIDGEND MALE CHOIR Choir Practice, 7.30 – 9.30 pm at Oldcastle Primary School, South Street, Bridgend. Contact G Reese T.07773 170373 or www. bridgendmalechoir.co.uk Winners 2014 Llangollen Eisteddfod Male Choir Competition. New choristers and visitors to the area welcome – again contact G Reese or website to arrange. Motto – “Friendship through Music”. BRIDGEND STAMP & POST CARD SOCIETY Why not start a new hobby or revive an old one? Displays, sales, speakers. All levels welcome. 7.30Pm, 2nd and 4th Thursday every month. Gospel Hall, Oddfellows St., Bridgend. Tel Maureen on 01656 653753 for more information.

advertise your club info@seasidenews.co.uk BRIDGEND SUGARCRAFT CLUB 1st Thurs each month 7-9.30pm at Pencoed Welfare Hall, Heol-Y-Groes, Pencoed, Bridgend, CF35 5PE Demonstrations/ workshops and more. All Welcome. £6.00 for visitors who are very welcome. Follow us on Facebook at Bridgend Sugar Craft Club. Contact Lynne bridgendsugarcraftclub@gmail.com

PYLE & PORTHCAWL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY MEETING @ St Clare’s School, Newton, Porthcawl CF36 5NR. at 7.15pm. Diverse range of photography related activities. Call Trevor Morris 01656 782603 (secretary@pyle-porthcawl-ps. co.uk), or www.pyle-porthcawl-ps. co.uk

COOLKIDS COMPUTING, PORTHCAWL @ WEST PARK PRIMARY SCHOOL. Creative technology based activities for children! We run classes during term-time, 3.30 - 4.30pm. Contact Sion on 01656 772560 / 07719730779 or email coolkidscomputing@ gmail.com to book your place. We also run evening and weekend ICT and Mathematics tuition classes. Visit our website www. coolkidscomputing.com

SLIMMING WORLD, KENFIG HILL @ Talbot Community Centre, Kenfig Hill. 9.30am, 3.30pm, 5.30pm and 7.30pm. Call Millie - 07765 040006.

HANDBELL RINGING, PORTHCAWL Would you like play handbells? We meet Tuesday and Thursday in Newton Institute Basic music knowledge an advantage plus commitment and rhythm. Would you like to learn?. Call Tim 07749254131. HEADWAY, BRIDGEND Offers support, services and information to brain injury survivors, their families and carers. We meet at 7pm on the first Thursday of every month at Evergreen Hall, Angel Street, Bridgend. For further information please contact headwaybridgend@btinternet.com KEYBRA (YOUNG KEYBOARD FUN) BRIDGEND Group keyboard lessons for 4-9 year olds. Well known songs, taught with games and movement for a fun learning experience. Classes are 4pm - 7pm. Free tasters available. Visit keybra.co.uk MID GLAMORGAN MIXED CHOIR, PENCOED 7:15-9:15pm Rehearsals take place in the Bowl’s Pavilion, Pencoed. We are a friendly choir of mixed ages and abilities. New members warmly welcomed! Contact us on 0786 6810579 or email us at midglamorganmixedchoir@outlook. com MONKEY MUSIC PORTHCAWL & BRIDGEND Award winning classes for children ages 3 months to 4 years. First class FREE. @ Jump Jam, Bridgend. Other days and venues available. Please book via Emma 01656 649190. Vale. bridgend@monkeymusic.co.uk www.monkeymusic.com

SLIMMING WORLD WITH RACHEL, PORTHCAWL 5:30pm and 7:30pm at The Bayside Room, Hi-Tide, Porthcawl, CF36 5BT. Call 07779 956233. Zumba Dance Fitness Class, Porthcawl 9.45-10.45am @ Awel-y-Mor Community Centre. The fun, low impact, easy to follow Latin based dance fitness class. Beginners welcome. Hannah Bowen Registered Exercise Professional/Official Zumba Instructor 07886 487853

Friday Charity Coffee Morning at Nottage Chapel 11am until 1pm every Friday at the Old School Room, Ty Canol, Nottage, Porthcawl. We are a friendly group for people of all ages in the community looking for companionship and fellowship in a welcoming, caring environment. Our regular members will ensure that you are made to feel very relaxed, loved and special. Any queries contact Rev Lewis Rees on: 07984 651888 or email nottage. minister@gmail.com COOLKIDS COMPUTING, PORTHCAWL @ NOTTAGE PRIMARY SCHOOL. Creative technology based activities for children! We run classes during term-time, 3.30 - 4.30pm. Contact Sion on 01656 772560 / 07719 730779 or email coolkidscomputing@ gmail.com to book your place. We also run evening and weekend ICT and Mathematics tuition classes. Visit our website www. coolkidscomputing.com INDOOR TABLE TOP SALE, PORTHCAWL @ Griffin Park. 8am-12midday. Call or text 07778 599616 for a table. CLOSED FROM 16TH DECEMBER 2016 - 10TH MARCH 2017

KOREAN KARATE, PORTHCAWL TANG SOO DO @ All Saints Church hall, Victoria Avenue, Porthcawl. Martial arts for the whole family. Tiger Tots: 4–6yrs: 6–6.30pm; Dragons: 7–12 yrs 6.30–7.30pm; Adults: 13yrs+: 7.30–8.30pm. Tel 07788 482450 email: porthcawltangsoodo@sky.com Website : www.traditionaltsdfed.org Also on Tuesdays. Youth Club @ Gilgal Baptist Church, Park Avenue. 6.30pm to 8.30pm every Friday during Term time for Year 7 and above. For more info email steve@ gilgalbaptistchurch.co.uk www.gilgalbaptistchurch.co.uk MONKEY MUSIC, PORTHCAWL, BRIDGEND & COWBRIDGE Award winning classes for children ages 3 months to 4 years. First class FREE. @ Trinity Church Porthcawl and Bijou Cowbridge. Other days and venues available. Please book via Emma 01656 649190. Vale. bridgend@monkeymusic.co.uk www.monkeymusic.com PORTHCAWL GYMNASTICS (TERM TIME ONLY) are now running their classes at The Community Sports Hall, Park Ave. Please email me for information on: porthcawl.gymnastics@gmail.com PORTHCAWL MALE CHOIR Choir Practice between 7.30pm and 9.30pm at Arlington Road Church, Porthcawl. New choristers always welcome. Choir available for weddings and Charity events. Website: www.porthcawlmalechoir. co.uk Contact Mal Evans on 07773 622537. PORTHCAWL SHOUT FREE FORUM Free forum on first Friday of the month to express all your concerns with Porthcawl Shout - a non political voluntary organisation. @ Trinity Church, Porthcawl at 2pm. Tel: 01656 786463. SLIMTONE SLIMMING CLASS, BRIDGEND @ Llys Faen (opposite the Quarella Road Tesco Store), Bridgend, 10am - 11.30am. Contact Marie on 01656 870339. SLIMMING WORLD, CORNELLY 9.30am. Ebenezer Church opposite Dr’s Surgery. Call Rachel on 07779 956233. TRINITY ART GROUP, PORTHCAWL Trinity Church, John Street, Porthcawl. 10am - 12.30 and 1.30 - 4pm (also see Monday). 16+ all abilities welcome. Professional tutor, Tel Lesley on 01656 772940.

Saturday BORE COFFI/COFFEE MORNING, PORTHCAWL @ Tabernacl New Hall, Fenton Place 10.30am–12pm. 1st Sat of the month. For Welsh learners and Welsh speakers to meet for a chat. A warm welcome to all – croeso cynnes i bawb KEYBRA (YOUNG KEYBOARD FUN) BRIDGEND Group keyboard lessons for 4-9 year olds. Well known songs, taught with games and movement for a fun learning experience. Classes are 9am - 12pm. Free tasters available. Visit keybra.co.uk TEENS’ DISCO TIME AT TRINITY CHURCH, PORTHCAWL Come and join us at Trinity Church for our free weekly Teens’ Disco Time, starting on the 22nd of October: 2pm to 4 pm - ages 7-11 (younger teens), 5pm to 7pm – ages 12-17 (older teens). For further information please contact our secretary Joy Parish on 01656 773290 or parishjoy57@gmail.com TRINITY ART GROUP, PORTHCAWL Trinity Church, John Street, Porthcawl. 10am - 12.30 and 1.30 - 4pm (also see Monday). 16+ all abilities welcome. Professional tutor, Tel Lesley on 01656 772940.

Sunday Good News Kids’ Club, Porthcawl @ The Gospel Hall, Lias Road, Porthcawl ages 3yrs plus. Traditional Bible stories, songs, puzzles and craft activities to challenge and entertain children of all ages and ability. Join us Sundays 11.20 – 12.20, make friends and have fun. Helpers CRB checked. More information: ring Ruth on 786447. ST DAVID’S JUNIOR CHURCH @ St David’s Church, Florence St, Porthcawl. Term time only, 9.30–10.30am. Play games, sing songs, read stories and do craft. Group for 0–5 year olds (under 2s must bring a parent) ST JOHN’S SUNDAY SCHOOL, PORTHCAWL Age 3+ every Sunday, 11am–12 noon, in the schoolroom opposite the church on the Newton green. Great stories, drawing, singing, with Janet and Bev, followed by squash and a biscuit. Come along any Sunday, we would love to see you!

Promote your club from only £30 + VAT for a whole year (12 issues). That’s only £2.50 + VAT per issue! Contact us now email: info@seasidenews.co.uk Tel: 01656 859587. seaside news | 55

sport reports REST BAY LIFEGUARD JUNIORS CELEBRATE BEST SEASON EVER!

Well what a year we’ve had! During this season, Rest Bay Juniors had three of their own selected for the Welsh Team; this saw the re-selection of Ellie McCloy and Grace Morgan, alongside a debute cap for Tom Horn. They travelled with Team Wales to Cornwall to take part in the Celtic Cup, with Tom, Ellie and Grace putting in some very strong performances and winning races for the team. Well done guys! Last month we hosted our Annual Presentation Night at the Hi-Tide when our Juniors swapped their sandy wetsuits for their glad rags and didn’t they scrub up well! As a Junior Section, we had lots to celebrate, as it’s been the best year in twenty-six years. We have a relatively small number of juniors competing, but they excelled themselves to place 2nd in Wales on the beach, and 3rd in the pool. We are very proud of all our juniors and would like to say a massive well done to all that competed picking up vital points. But, it’s not all about winning medals and a number of our juniors have been working hard to pass awards and are a credit to the club. There is no doubt the Junior Section will continue to provide volunteer and professional lifeguards for the future to patrol our local beaches. We are in very safe hands. Sarah Morgan

PORTHCAWL LIFEGUARD CLUB NEWS Happy 2018 everyone! How are the resolutions holding up? If you fancy one you could stick to, then why not take the plunge and join us? We welcome new members at any time, so why not get fit and learn some new skills? It could be the best thing you’ve ever done. This time of year, the water is very cold, so you should be aware of what to do if you ever fell into the sea, or a river. Everyone who falls unexpectedly into cold water wants to follow the same instinct, - to swim hard and to fight the cold water. But when people fight it, chances are, they lose. Cold water shock makes you gasp uncontrollably and breathe in water, which can quickly lead to drowning. If you find yourself unexpectedly in the water, do as little as possible, and float. Lean back in the water to keep your airway clear, push your stomach up, extending your arms and legs and gently move your hands and feet to help you float. In 60-90 seconds you’ll be able to control your breathing. Then, swim to safety, call for help, or continue to float until help arrives. Keep safe out there. www.plgc.org.uk Phil Protheroe

Deadline date for the February 2018 issue: Monday 15th January PORTHCAWL RFC UNDER 9S

PORTHCAWL PANTHERS NETBALL CLUB We are currently in our second year of offering netball opportunities to girls in the Porthcawl and surrounding area in training and competitive situations. We currently train on a Tuesday evening at Porthcawl Community Sports Hall (at Porthcawl Comprehensive), and offer training for 7-15 year olds. We currently have about 50 girls regularly attending training. From Under 11 upwards, girls can be involved in competitive league matches on a Thursday evening or on Sundays. We would love to be sponsored by a local business, which would help enormously with match fees, umpire fees and kit for the girls. If you are a local business who would be willing to offer sponsorship to one or more of our teams, please contact Amanda Scott on 07813 169221 or Alyson Evans on 07891 851318. Porthcawl Panthers Netball Club

56 | seaside news

The boys managed to play a lot more games in the run up to Christmas and the weather was kinder. The boys have really got into the contact side of the game and the confidence is clear to see in all the squad. What the coaches are very happy with is their commitment to defence, and the boys do not shy away from the tackle. The boys continue to play a team game, something we as coaches are adamant happens. The tries scored involve the whole team and there are no individuals. This has given some of our new boys huge confidence and their improvement has grown in

tide times

email your sport report info@seasidenews.co.uk

high tide: larger number (m)

low tide: lower number (m)

Time

Time 7.83

Time

m 0346 1006 9.28 1622 2.03 2232 9.17

Jun Jul Time Zone: UT(GMT)/BST Lat 51°28' N

2018

January Time m

m0348 8.23Time 1004 2.580600 2.91 0514 9.91 7.80 W 1621 8.13 1157F 1125 1.32 2230 2.60 2.87 M 1743 10.12 Tu 1818 0444 8.49 0321 8.26 2347 1.10

0207 0835 Tu 1453 e 2106

PORTHCAWL

JAN FEB

May Time Zone: UT(GMT)/BST

January February Time m Time m m Time8.78 Time m Time m m 0454m 8.23 0426 8.78 Time 1057 2.58 1044 2.06 2.05 0025 0514 9.91 06001.62 9.28 0.82 0028 Sa1125 1720 8.37 1701 9.04 8.89 0649 1.32 Su0650 1157 2.03 M 10.55 9.67 2326 2.53 2314 1.83 1.94

Tu 1835 10.39

W 1233 1.85

1616

Time

Time Time 0514 8.08 1114 2.66 0025 0547 10 1739 8.42 0649 1154 0 2343 2.50

17430.61 10.12 F Tu 18181.47 9.17 Th Th 1255 Th M 1255 1248 1813 10 0543 8.49 0532 9.51 9.16 06021914 8.47 2347 1.10 1914 10.43 1907

0449 9.21 1052 2.34 1103 1.65 0943 2.42 0607 10.34 W 1600 8.39 1720 9.40 Th 1711 8.48 0013Sa 1.93 2316 2.330636 9.49 2329 1.49 2209 2.30 1215 0.95

Long 3°42

2 1143

1141 2.33

1.67

1158 2.29

10.34 00131.44 0112 0012 0 0.64 Su0607 1804 8.70 1802 9.521.93Tu 1822 8.84 M0100 2 20112 1215 0.951717 06369.82 9.49 2 2 0734 0633 10 0734 10.71 0723

18350.53 10.39 Sa W 12331.32 1.85 F 1240 F 13410 F Tu 1341 1320

2.27 0011 1.40 8.74 0547 9.62 0025 2.14 8.88 18 0531 3A1939 3 0424 18 0007 C A 18533 9.31 18539.63 9.3118C0644 1959 1858 10 1959 10.42 0625 8.73 0632 9.53 1134 2.11 1158 1.29 8.83 1041C 1.84

Su 1816 9.85 Th 1658 9.06 F 1754 8.79 0036 0.88 2355 2.100047 1.81 2303 1.71

M 1221 2.10

Tu 1237 1.33

3 0658 10.60 18 0710

1818

1919

W 1238 1.96

0036 0.88 00471.34 1.81 1901 0156 0156 0.67 0133 0055 1844 8.97 9.190 @ 1858 9.94 0658 10.60 07109.88 9.61 0819 9.61 0819 10.64 0756 0717 10 0045 2.05 0103 1.06 0613 8.94 0023 1.10 1.83 0519 9.49 1305 0.77 Su Th 13061.27 1.74 Sa0103 Sa 1425 W 1305 0.77 Th 1306 1.74 Sa W 1425 0.69 1353 1321 0 0704 8.93 0726 9.80 1211 1.93 0643 9.92 0721 9.13 1132 1.32 10.46 19261.099.37Th 1315 2041 1925 10.46 10.19 2011 1939 10 Tu1925 W M 9.37 F 1749 9.67 1257 1.93 1326 9.64 1248 1.04 2041 1.69 Sa 1832 9.031926 1921 9.18 1949 10.20 1909 10.17 0238 9.48 2353 1.18 A0124 0.84 0119 1.74 A 1938 0238 0124 0.84 0119@ 1.74 0.91 0207 1.35 0136 0 0747 10.65 07439.83 9.65 0139 0901 0121 1.88 0153 0.87 0747 10.65 10.33 0829 0758 10 0033 1.920743 9.65 0114 0.85 0901 1.58 0611 9.99 0740 9.06 M 1428 9.911.70 Su0759 0651 9.09 0736 10.07 9.36 1221 1354 0.78 F0815 13391.34 Su 1507 Th 0.92 1354 0.78 F 1339 1.70 Su Th 1507 1.06 1400 0 Tu 9.36 W2013 Th Sa 1839 10.14 Su 1246 1.81 1958 1333 1.80 1412 1.00 1338 0.92 2121 1.48 10.33 1958 9.36 F 1351 2121 2013 10.33 9.78 2044 9.54 2017 10

4 5

A 1907 9.20

1957 9.32

2000 10.32

2036 10.28

2015 9.68

0211 0.98 01511.48 1.75 0215 0319 0211 0.98 0151 1.75 1.32 0241 0 0157 1.77 20 0239 0.86 1.39 20 50214 5 50319 6 5 21 20 60904 6 210834 10.49 08169.65 9.612150836 0941 0941 9.83 0835 10 0817 9.14 0859 9.85 9.51

0106 1.81 0204 0.76 0042 0.78 0834 10.49 0726 9.160816 9.61 0826 10.04 0701 10.31 1442 M1.00 M Su 1307F 0.68 1320 Sa 1.741413W 1.73 1426 0.96 1941 9.302031 9.28 2049 10.28 2101 10.01 @ 1926 10.42

7 6

FTh1442 1.00 14131.08 1.73SaM1429 M 1546 1546 1.58 1.53 1437 F1502 1409 1.72 Tu Sa 1457 1.350 2101 10.01 2031 9.28 2052 2201 2031 9.40 2119 10.16 9.80 2201 9.23 2118 9.31 2054 9

6 622

7 2121

226 6

0232 1.71 0324 1.02 0140 1.760225 1.84 0253 0.85 0400 0129 0.57 1.30 0257 1.29 02251.74 1.84 0253 0400 0257 1.29 1.86 0317 0249 1 085210.14 9.16 0942 9.62 0801 9.17 0914 9.84 0750 10.41 9.55 0921 08499.35 9.48 0913 1020 0921 10.14 0849 9.48 1020 9.22 0939 0911 9 Th 1513 1.17 F 1445 1.71 Sa 1539 1.32 M 1354 0.64 Tu 1353 1.74 Su 1507 1.33 1529 1.39 W Su 14481.85 1.85 Tu2129 Tu 1626 Sa 1529 1.39 Su 1448 1.85 TuSa 1626 2.17 1540 1512 1 2107 9.40 2014 9.32 2136 10.07 2201 9.87 2013 10.49 9.80

2146 9.54

21468.64 9.54 2242

2104 9.11

21048.97 9.11 2157

22429 2128

0310 1.71 0213 1.78 0341 1.12 0404 1.34 0.56 0331 1.33 8 0217 230344 80357 0441 1.73 0300 2.0223 0951 2.45 0344 23 1.73 2.10 0325 1 0929 9.11 0833 9.1203008 2.02 1001 9.49 0441 1021 9.26 0838 10.29 9.47

2222

Tu 1439 0.80 Sa1006 W 1425 1.800924F 9.26 1523 1.77 1558 1.51 1620 1.689.26M 1546 1.449 1103 9.65 Su1021 09248.94 1103 8.56 1006 9.65 0946 2145 9.33 2046 M 9.27 2221 9.70 2241 2100 9.67 1710 1618 1.89 Th M 15259.45 2.05 W 2207 W 1710 2.76 Su10.34 1618 1.89 1525 2.05 W Su 1623 2.25 1544 2

2328 2232 9.00 21408.55 8.87 0411 8.06 2232 9.00 2203 0349 1.78 0247 1.862140 8.87 1.51 2328 0444 1.76 0.77 1.498 every match and training session. 9 0303 9 0429 92241 1045 9.05 24 1008 8.98 1059 8.83 24 1030 9.27 0925 9.95 24 0907 8.99 0433 2.23 0338 2.27 0531 0433 2.23 0446 2.51 0338 2.27 0531 3.01 0400 Sa 1645 1.93 Su 1602 1.90 W 1525 1.15 Th 1459 1.93 M 1659 2.12 Some of the results: Tu 1626 1.672 8 23 8 8 23 8 23 8 1055 9.10 10028.47 8.99 2248 1154 1055 9.10 1113 7.95 1022 8 2224 9.18 2120 9.141002 8.99 2308 9.25 1154 2320 8.96 2148 10.00 9.41 Pencoed 5 v Porthcawl 75; 17103.26 2.41 F Tu 16062.67 2.30 Th Th 18072 1718 M 1710 2.41 Tu 1606 2.30 Th M 1807 1621 0430 1.93 0322 2.00 0517 1.96 0524 2.22 0352 1.16 0452 1.78 D D B Penclawdd 5 v Porthcawl 75; 2221 8.5725 1111 2322 25 8.47 8.12 2221 2241 10 1012 9.44 10 8.57 252322 1049 8.47 8.79 102340 0942 8.80 1132 8.57 1139 8.37 8.968 Th 1613 1.63 M 0527 1646 2.10 1536 2.11 0421Su 2.56 1733 2.37 0028 1739 2.002 Tu0551 Bonymaen U10’s 0 v Porthcawl U9’s 50 04212.58 2.56 W 1711 2.72 0028 0440 0527 F2.72 7.60 2.90 2308 8.98 2157 8.95 2355 8.76 2236 9.51 2333 9.04 9 1148 8.56 24 1047 8.67 9 90638 10478.06 8.67 9 9 11483.43 8.562424 06387 1103 1221 Porthcawl 65 v Nantyffylon 15 0515 2.13 0401 W 2.191653 2.58 0607 2.39F Tu 0002 8.45 0443 1.67 0539 2.15 1653 2.58 1808 2.85 W F 1302 1704 3 Tu 1808 2.85 1302 7.52 Sa 1834 2.99 F The boys will have had a couple of weeks off over Christmas and 11 1102 8.86 26 1020 8.56 11 1220 8.13 1925 26 2330 11B0607 26 11353.52 8.56 8.587 B 2311 8.26 23112.67 8.26 D1201 1925 M 1828 2.76 F 1703 2.17 Sa 1616 2.34 Th 1803 2.38 W 1223 7.94 Tu 1733 2.33 will be keen to get back into it. 2357 8.75 2237 8.710514v 2.85 1828 3.00 2327 8.97 0020 8.04 05147.88 2.85 e 0537 01483 8.04 7.43 0100 v We recently had delivery of our new kit, which looks great 10 0020 25 1143 8.37 10100148 2525 0632 3.09 11433.02 8.371010 0806 0632 3.09 3.53 0723 1200 7 0048 8.33 0806 0607 2.34 0027 8.61 0444 2.40 0051 7.98 0539 2.19 and a special thank you goes out to our kit sponsors and 12 1155W 8.29 12 2.83 12Th1348 271250 8.15 Su 17537.96 2.8327 Sa 1426 1250 27 8.15 Sa W 1426 7.46 Sa0637 1814 3 0703 2.74 1228 8.34 2.54 1104 Th 8.301753 0659 3.05 Sa 1801 2.65 Tu 1317 7.81 W 1831 2.54 8.24 1702 2.59 1317 7.59 1916 3.12 Th 1916 Su 3.12 2050 3.42 2010 2.93 F 13032050 local businesses: Castle Driveways, Priory Kitchens, Evolution 1929 3.04 1910 2.71 2325 8.46 1929 3.32 e v Sports Management, Crystal Clear Financial Solutions, and 01297.67 7.83 00148.08 8.03 03097 7.83 0014 8.03 0229 0046 0148 8.03 0055 3.25 01340921 8.48 053526 2.60 0152 7.64 11 0129 11110309 0745 06252.68 3.041111 0745 3.25 0625 3.04 0921 3.278.532626 0857 07058.24 3 13 0024 Bartholomew Hawkins. 0644 2.61 28 1156 8.06 13 0805 2.94 28 0709 2.51 13 0805 3.28 28 0752 2.81 Th 1400 7.98 F 1253 8.20 Su 1542 Th 1400 7.98 F 1253 8.20 Su 1542 7.76 M 1514 8.32 Su 1332 Su 1257 7.87 W 1422 7.67 M 1758 2.79 Th 1332 8.22 Sa 1417 8.097 F 1429 7.44 Happy New Year to all! 2027 3.14 19102.45 2.91 2035 2153 2027 e 3.14 1910 2.91 3.05 2130 1958 3 2038 3.13 2153 1940 2.65 2.81 1912 2.97 2046 3.42 Geraint Evans D

7.92 01328.68 8.03 0255 0412 0241 7.92 8.14 0224 7 0253 7.92 0412 0202 8.43 8.12 0021 8.280132 8.03 0305 7.54 14 0129 14 2.97 14 290241 270349 12 8.15 12121017 1212 0909 2.96 0822 2.5527 0919 2.76 0755 2.81 063727 2.710751 0917 3.26 0855 3.15 07512.05 2.9729 1017 0855 29 3.15 2.84 1007 0843 3

DEMENTIA FRIENDLY SWIMMING SESSIONS Dementia Friendly swimming sessions will launch at Bridgend Life Centre from January 10th. The sessions have been formed through a collaboration between Halo Leisure, the Alzheimer’s Society, ABMU Health Board, BAVO and support from Bridgend County Borough Council. The sessions will take place on Wednesdays 2:00 - 3:00pm, followed by the chance to meet up over complimentary refreshments afterwards. There are accessible facilities and assistance from specially trained instructors and staff. Sessions are £2 per person and carers can swim for free. For more information email ryan.statton@haloleisure.org,uk or call 01656 678862. Ryan Statton

M 1408 1529 7.77M 1638 1443 8.29 8.28 1300 Sa 7.951411Th 8.30 1545 7.598.30SuM1539 FF 1510 8.08 TuSa Sa 14118.96 M 1638 F 7.70 1510 Tu 8.08 8.22 1625 1506 7 2143 3.03 2056 2.56 2159 2.55 2028 3.03 1905 2.86 2159 3.25

2128 2.95

2032 2.70

0357 8.08 0128 8.25 15 8.36 15 0241 8.23 0250 1007 0905 0345 2.78 30 0749 2.66

21282.62 2.95 2240

20321.82 2.70 2232

22403 2119

8.01 0315 8.51 0416 8.35 0415 7.73 0345 8.23 02509.40 8.36 1034 0500 8.65 0453 0339 7 2.81 0500 0936 2.39 2.40 1022 3.02 2.89 Su1104 09101.39 1101 0952 2.89 2.40 0948 Tu 1519 7.83 W 1409 8.060910F 2.57 Sa0952 1628 8.03 1101 1554 8.59 8.773 1648 7.972.57M 1653 Sa 1610 8.35 Su 1527 8.70 Tu 1721 2238 2.81 2209 2.26 2307 2.07 2135 2.87 2020 2.73 2256 2.90 Sa 1610 8.35 Su 1527 8.70 Tu 1721 8.66 W 1723 9.61 Tu 1609 7

2219 2.66 2143 0238 8.42 0900 2.42 0438 8.62 0401 Th 1518 8.40 1040 2.57 1017 2129 2.39 Su 1659 8.67 M 1634 2301 2.37 2242

15 0521 1121

8.99 2.27 M 1741 8.95 2338 2.12

2.24

8.94 1.99 9.25 1.69

30 0502 1114

9.59 1.40 Tu 1732 9.80 2337 1.19

10.15 31 0557 1206 0.91 W 1825 10.22 C

1313

15 28

22192.22 2.66 2320

1414

04389.09 8.62 0540 10402.01 2.57 1139 16599.03 8.67 W Su 1759 23011.88 2.37 2355

21431.23 2.24 2325

0401 1017 M 1634 2242

05219.43 8.99 0502 15150616 11211.70 2.27 30 1114 1214 17419.31 8.95 1833 Th M A 2338 2.12

3013

2320 2213 2 8.83

31 0528

1414

1.928 8.94 1135 0540 0431 Tu 1756 9.35 1.99 11392 1035 9.25 W W 17598 1654 1.69 23552 2254

1515

06168 9.59 0512 12141 1.40 1113 18338 Tu 1732 9.80 Th Th 1732 A 2337 1.19 2331 1

10.15 31 0557 1206 0.91 W 1825 10.22 C

of Predictio of(so Predictions Chart Datum :Datum 5.30 metres belo Tide Times are BSTDatum adjusted no need to=add an hour!). NATIONA NATIONAL OCEANOGRAPHY CENTRE: COP The time you see above is correct

seaside news | 57

START 2018 OFF ON THE RIGHT FOOT BY ADVERTISING IN THE RIGHT PLACE

58 | seaside news

Est. 1983

Enrol your child in our fun-filled recreational gymnastics classes. Places are available on a Monday and Friday evenings (term time only) in the Community Sports Hall, Comprehensive School, Park Avenue,Porthcawl. Suitable for boys & girls from 3 to 16 years old.

For more information email Pam: porthcawl.gymnastics@gmail.com

Beautiful accommodation in stunning south west France

SENIORS

YOUTH

Re-arranged fixtures will be posted on our Facebook page.

2nd XV Fixture updates will be on our website and Facebook.

6th Jan 13th Jan 20th Jan 27th Jan

Abercrave RFC (H) Aberavon Green Stars (A) Bridgend Sports RFC (H) Briton Ferry (A)

6th Jan 13th Jan 20th Jan

Gowerton RFC (H) Tondu RFC (A) Cwmtwrch RFC (A)

Ever considered volunteering? Whether you're a current player, someone who has hung up their boots or a person who has never picked up the oval ball, you could be a valued rugby volunteer. Whatever skills you can offer, we need you. Contact tracey@porthcawlrfc.com for details.

100 Club Draw

Win up to ÂŁ70 in our monthly draws! 100 Club members can win up to ÂŁ1,000 in our big Christmas Draw! Get your numbers now! Contact us for details.

T. 01656 784242 WWW.PORTHCAWLRFC.COM

B&B & two bedroom gite in a quiet location, yet only a 15 minute walk to the beautiful bastide town of Domme.

www.dommebandb.com

Email: jonquilles.domme@gmail.com

Tel: 07914 850591 seaside news | 59

Beth sydd ymlaen? What’s on?

Film: Romeo and Juliet (12)

Macca The Concert

Dydd Mercher 14 Chwefror Wednesday 14 February

Dydd Gwener 16 Chwefror Friday 16 February

Valentine’s Night 8pm

Jason Donovan Dydd Sadwrn 17 Mawrth Saturday 17 March

7.30pm

Jukebox Heroes II Dydd Gwener 20 Ebrill Friday 20 April

7.30pm

The South

Limited Tickets

Owen Money

Paul McCartney & The Beatles

Carousel

Bridgend Youth Theatre

Dydd Gwener 23 – Dydd Sadwrn 24 Chwefror Friday 23 – Saturday 24 Feb

Oh! Carol

Musical Story of Neil Sedaka & Howard Greenfield Dydd Iau 1 Mawrth Thursday 1 March

2.30pm & 7.30pm

Ruby Wax

7.30pm

Kast Off Kinks

Alison Wheeler ex singer of The Beautiful South

Frazzled - Your passport to saner living

Former members of the legendary band The Kinks

7.30pm

8pm

7.30pm

Dydd Sadwrn 24 Mawrth Saturday 24 March

Milkshake! Live

‘The Magic Story Book’ Dydd Sadwrn 21 Ebrill Saturday 21 April

12noon & 3.30pm

Dydd Iau 12 Ebrill Thursday 12 April

David Baddiel

My Family: Not The Sitcom Dydd Gwener 25 Mai Friday 25 May

Dydd Iau 19 Ebrill Thursday 19 April

Rhythm of the Night

Audience With Ian Waite & Oti Mabuse Strictly Come Dancing

7.30pm

Dydd Sadwrn 26 Mai Saturday 26 May

01656 815995 • www.grandpavilion.co.uk @grandpavilion

facebook.com/grand.pavilion.porthcawl

7.30pm