SEASIDE NEWS: May 2023 issue

COVER PHOTO: Mike Jones, Porthcawl

YOUR ARTICLES, VIEWS, NEWS & REPORTS

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PUZZLES

Sudoku

www.sudokukingdom.com

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

Word Search

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

Find names of 16 Kings and Queens of England: RICHARD - ELIZABETH - VICTORIA - STEPHEN - HENRY - ALFRED - EDWARDCHARLES - GEORGE - JANE GREY - JOHN - ETHELRED - MARY - MAUDEDMUND - ANNE

BOOKS

BOOK OF THE MONTH RIGHTEOUS PREY – JOHN SANDFORD

A group of vigilantes known only as ‘The Five’ are targeting the worst of society – rapists, murderers and thieves – and they use their unlimited resources to offset the damage done by those who they’ve killed, donating untraceable Bitcoin to charities and victims via the Dark Web. Soon, they are the most popular figures on social media . . . but their motives may not be entirely pure.

After a woman is murdered in the Twin Cities, Virgil Flowers and Lucas Davenport are sent to investigate. The killings are smart and carefully choreographed, and with no apparent direct connection to the victims, The Five are virtually untraceable.

EVENTS:

Characters are central to any story. In this workshop, working in pairs, you will discover how to create characters that come to life on the page. This is a session for both new and experienced writers where the emphasis will be on learning through enjoyment.

All welcome. Booking essential.

NEW BOOKS AT PORTHCAWL LIBRARY

FICTION

I WILL FIND YOU

Harlan Coben

PURE EVIL

Lynda La Plante

A PLACE CALLED HOME

Ellie Dean

A SECRET GARDEN AFFAIR

Erica James

COUNTDOWN

James Patterson and Brendan DuBois

THE WHITE LADY

Jacqueline Winspear

SO SHALL YOU REAP

Donna Leon

THE PINK HOUSE

Catherine Alliott

PORTRAIT OF A MURDER

Michael Jecks

KATE BLADON

NOT THE ONES DEAD

Dana Stabenow

THE WOMEN

Jacqui Rose

NON FICTION

WHEN THE DUST SETTLES: SEARCHING FOR HOPE AFTER DISASTER

Lucy Easthope

GREAT AND HORRIBLE NEWS: MURDER AND MAYHEM IN EARLY MODERN BRITAIN

Adam Blessin

THE HAGLEY WOOD MURDER

M J Trow

ALL THE WIDE BORDER: WALES, ENGLAND AND THE PLACES IN BETWEEN

Mike Parker

WHEN THERE WERE BIRDS

Roy & Lesley Adkins

Facebook: PorthcawlLibrary | PyleLibrary

Porthcawl Library Tel: 01656 754845 | 01656 754850

Email: porthcawl.library@awen-wales.com

pyle.library@awen-wales.com

MISTY MORN

UNDERPASS ARTWORK

REST BAY

OGMORE VALE

WAITING TO FEED THE DUCKS

FLOWERS IN MY GARDEN

Anthony Callaghan, Porthcawl

Daniel Ryan, Porthcawl

Brooke Parr-Jones, Porthcawl

Sandra Beer, Porthcawl

Pat Lathey, Penyfai

Alan Thomas, Bridgend

Trudy Van Beek, Penyfai

Tony John, Porthcawl

Rhys Roberts, Porthcawl

Kezia Harris, Porthcawl

ARTS

BRIDGEND MALE VOICE CHOIR

arrival of the bride, during the signing of the register and on the departure of the happy couple. Fantastic feedback from all involved, including the Vale management. We’d like to wish the couple a long and happy marriage. Anyone planning a wedding should consider entertaining their guests and starting off the happy day with our traditional Welsh Male Choir. Why not contact us for details? We have been invited by Porthcawl Town Council to sing at King Charles’ coronation celebrations. We’ll update everyone once we know the final details. Whilst the choir is thriving, we’re always on the lookout for new singers. If any of you men out there would like a good time with a great bunch of people, contact us. contact@pothcawlmalechoir.co.uk

Ian Williams 07927 219544

BMC are really excited about a series of concerts and events coming up in the next couple of months. We have had a number of sell out concerts already this year and are looking forward to upcoming performances at the Bridgend Masonic Hall, Tabernacl Chapels in Bridgend & Pontycymmer (with Huw Edwards compering), and a trip to Aberystwyth for a joint concert with the Aberystwyth MVC. We are also looking forward to out Annual Choir Luncheon at the Vale Cricket Club with Nigel Owens as our special guest and a Choir Tour to Ireland later in the year.

Our choir has grown month on month since last year where we have been delighted to welcome all those new choristers into the fold and as always, we maintain a very warm welcome to new members who can join us at rehearsals on Thursday evenings from 7:30-9:30pm at Oldcastle Primary School, South Street Bridgend. More information can be found on our website at https://www.bridgendmalechoir.co.uk

Or Contact our Secretary, Mike Johnson by email or by phone: contact@bridgendmalechoir.co.uk

Telephone 07938 949194

Photo taken at Cardiff Masonic Hall, Feb 2023

PORTHCAWL MALE CHOIR

Deadline date for the June issue is:

MONDAY 15TH MAY

PYLE & PORTHCAWL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

We recently held our annual (mono only) Alan Thomas Memorial Competition, expertly judged by Dennis Russ from Swansea. This year’s winner was Bill Robertson. Congratulations Bill.

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

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

www.pyle-and-porthcawl-photographic-society.co.uk Geoff Baker, Internal Competition Secretary.

It’s a very busy time for the choir, with wide and varied performances planned. From welcoming internationally renowned theatre, television and screen actor Simon Callow to sing with us, to the start of the wedding season, upcoming coronation, and our tour to Llandudno. Plus lots more! Our first wedding was that of Ben and Vicky Cotter at the Vale Resort on Good Friday. This was a wonderful event, the choir sang a varied program of songs whilst the guests awaited the

STAG’S WORLD OF ROCK

It makes a change to write about some good news for once. Where better to start than with the Newton Music Festival returning on Bank Holiday weekend, Saturday 26th August. I can now tell you that some of the acts confirmed, in no particular order, are: Calon, The Guzzards, Evil Turkeys, Side Effects, This River, Dick Dastardly, Two Toned, Tommy King, Elys Davies, Porthcawl Male Voice Choir and top female vocalists Jasmine Rose and Katie Mittel. It is also fab to see Interstella Boy added to the bill, so we’ll have some original music to enjoy, too. Sadly, Last Flight To Pluto are playing a huge festival in England on the same weekend, as it would have been great to see them again. They will be sharing the stage with rock icons Ten Years After, Mountain and Curved Air – so maybe next year.

I attended local music stalwart Roger Clatworthy’s 70th birthday, although he still says he’s more famous than me and Mark Jones, top man! Watch out for new band All The Mod Cons, and don’t miss the 1990’s. Mat and the boys are at the Hi Tide on Friday 5th May. Keep your music news coming. Stag Marks

07549 728356

PORTHCAWL ART SOCIETY

Our spring exhibition opened over Easter. We had an enjoyable exhibition opening, with our judge Jannet Poultney-Maddy providing insightful feedback and comments. Joint winners were Jan Hoskin’s magnificent lion and a portrait ‘That’s not me’ by Jeff Barnes. Tricia Simon and Marilyn John were joint third, with awards also to Lydia Nicholson’s original Iguana, seascape by Wendy Davies-Williams and figure dancing by Clive Callen. We aim to be open 11-3pm Wednesday, Friday & Saturday and other days when volunteers are available, so come along to enjoy our art (entry is free). If you are interested in joining us, drop in to a member workshop on Wednesdays 1-3pm and 7-9pm. We are above the museum in John Street.

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

Photo: Stag Marks

Richard & Sarah Mustoe Independent Funeral Directors

LETTERS

CELEBRATING 102 YEARS!

SEA SHEPHERD UK PORTHCAWL BEACH CLEANS

Dear Editor,

The lady in the photo is 102 today (7th April). She is from Bryntirion in Bridgend. Her name is Florence (Flo) Hawkins. Steve Richmond, Bridgend

NEWTON INSTITUTE DONATE TO TY-HAFAN

Dear Editor,

We held a Vintage & Collectables sale at the Newton Institute on the 11th March , which you kindly advertised in march’s edition of the seaside news , which is where most of the buyers that day saw the advert & came to us .

We wanted to donate the sum we raised of £226.30 to a local charity & it was a majority vote that it would go to Ty-Hafan who do such good work locally .

Better still as Ty-Hafan is Principality building societies chosen charity for the year we paid it in to them & they have matched the amount , so Ty- Hafan will receive £ 452.60.

Thank you all at Principality , Porthcawl for doing that for us & Ty-Hafan .

Jill George, Porthcawl Trustee/Treasurer Newton Institute

CLOSURE OF PORTHCAWL BRANCHES OF LLOYDS BANK AND HALIFAX

Dear Editor,

Anyone who wants to send an email to Lloyds Banking Group about its intended closure of the Lloyds Bank and Halifax branches in Porthcawl will find relevant email addresses and useful hints at www.ceoemail.com.  You will see there, for example, that the CEO is Charlie Nunn and his email address is charlie.nunn@lloydsbanking.com, and the Group Director, Retail, is Vim Maru whose email address is vim.maru@ lloydsbanking.com.

Walter Coughlin, Porthcawl

Dear Editor,

So far this year we have removed 658 kg of debris from Coney Beach. Firstly, a massive thank you to the Porthcawl Christmas Morning Swim. Their surprise donation to our Porthcawl beach cleans meant we could finally get some good quality pickers. We can’t thank you all enough for such generosity.

The pickers arrived just in time for a rather special beach clean at Coney this month. They had a baptism of fire on Coney when we joined year 7 pupils from Trelales Primary School as part of their coursework on ocean and pollution.

The children did so well too…litter pickers really aren’t designed for such small arms, so they took some wielding, and their persistence shone through. Thank you to Mr Perkins and year 7 for such a fab effort.

Our beach cleans are roughly every other Sunday now, time dependent on the tide.

If you get a chance, take a look at the photos with our beach reports at Sea Shepherd UK on Facebook. Next dates can also be found on FB and at the Pantri-Box in Porthcawl, or contact us at: southwales@seashepherduk.org Elkz, Porthcawl

LIFE’S JIGSAW

At the end will we find there’s a picture? Each incident part of a whole? What at times seems a meaningless jungle

‘Till we ask God to shine light on our soul. How bright were those early beginnings When we found you would share all our pain

But sometimes you ask us to walk in the dark

Yet to know that you always remain –And that you, the All-wise are the artist Who blends sorrow with glory so bright For you sent your own Son to suffer and die

That each jigsaw be somehow made right.

Pauline Lewis, Porthcawl

NATURE’S PHILOSOPHY

Nocturnal birds in sibilant causerie Forest creatures in distant revelry

While nature’s blanket dims their rivalry And stills the air to peaceful reverie

How brief is this tranquility

As hostile meetings in darkened shrubbery

Remind, if only momentarily

That man alone enjoys in camaraderie

Victor Timmons

Highbridge, Somerset

SNOWDROP

I’m a friendly little snowdrop, Who is feeling rather blue, Somewhere along the way last night, I got lost, what should I do?

I think I’ll ask the little birds, Who are flying in the sky, All I can see is lots of snow I feel like I may cry.

At least it’s not too dark now, The sun is coming out, It will help to dry my petals, And to melt the snow about.

I love it when the cold has gone, When spring is on its way, And other plants start to appear, It really makes my day.

But what is that I see just there, Why it looks like another snowdrop, Hooray I’m no longer on my own, I’m so happy that I could pop!

Marilyn Cook, Bridgend

KNITBOT

I’m busy knitting robots For children in our school. To encourage their resilience, A truly powerful tool.

Robotic resilience, The challenge is set. They won’t get to hold one Until it’s been met.

So I’ll use my resilience And hold my head high. I will work really hard. Yes, I’ll reach for the sky.

Judy Dee, Porthcawl

LAUGHTER IS A PILL

Laughter is a pill That makes you often chill  The pain gets killed  Happiness refilled

Laughter is the best medicine  It’s free can be found within  So let’s laugh more and more  It’s the best thing hearts adore

Keep smiling makes you strong  A cure that lasts life long  Believe me or not

Laughter is a contagious thing  A joy that makes my sprit sing  Dr. Nadeem Iqbal  Bridgend

THE BEGINNING OF THE END

There’s the beginning of a pothole Outside my driveway gate And next door there are bigger ones That multiplied of late.

They continue down the Crescent, One pothole then another. Workmen come, fill them up, Quick fix! not worth the bother.

They say weather is an issue. Rain and frost we have in spades. No! Shoddy workmanship’s the problem And materials, second grade.

Just imagine each pothole  Joining up to form one hole. In a giant sink hole we’d disappear. Blame the Council and God Rest Our Soul…

Catherine Millard Payne, Bridgend

DIET IS A SWEAR WORD

Are we really overweight?

(The doctor says obese)

But I’m eating what my body wants, When will their nagging cease? I only eat what’s good for me, And I eat until I’m full, But not with diet food you see, I find it rather dull!

I should get up and walk around, I should do some exercise, But the efforts are far too great you see, Looking out through half closed eyes…. It’s time I bought some new clothes, But the sizes are not the same, The mirror also needs slinging, For I refuse to take the blame. Yes, diet is a swear word, I don’t want to hear it again, As I’m happy in my big skin, and not a cute size 10!

Marilyn Cook, Bridgend

Catherine Tanner BMus(Hons) ARCM

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

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

COST OF CANCER

Did you know that in May of next year we’re looking at taking on the National 3 Peaks Challenge. This means we’re going to be walking up Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowden all in 24 hours. If you feel up for the challenge, please do get in touch. We’ll be putting it live on the website very soon so please do keep looking on our social media platforms for more information.

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

It’s really important for those who need the help to come forward, your case will be treated with the upmost discretion. We understand how upsetting it can be to even admit you need help but please this is why we’re here. This is why we do all the fundraising to help those who need it the most.

Have a great Spring.

Nicky, Emma & Cath Trustees

HOLD MY HAND!

Who is saying these words? You, your mother or father, someone who wants to keep you safe or someone who wants to protect you? Happy memories of being out and about somewhere unfamiliar where you may need a bit of guidance about how to proceed next.

In a moment you are outside playing with friends holding hands going round in a circle singing a song spinning faster and faster until you all fall down giddy and laughing. Getting up and skipping playing hopscotch, hide and seek, climbing trees swinging on ropes. All the while looking out for each other.

In a short while you are in a cinema holding hands in the dark and blinking as you return to the afternoon light. Off to the café arm in arm with your friends.

Later holding hands with your boy or girl friend walking down

the street thinking this happy feeling would last forever. When was the last time you held hands with another? Family, friend or social contact? Sometimes a hug or cwtch is too much, yet a simple hand hold is comforting and less formal than a hand shake. A gentle touch is just enough to begin your walk to happiness.

Margaret Brown

WHAT DIET IF YOU HAVE GOUT?

Gout is a type of arthritis that involves sudden pain, swelling and inflammation of the joints. It happens when there is too much uric acid in the blood, causing it to deposit in the joints as crystals.

The foods you eat can either raise or lower your uric acid levels. Some foods such as red meat and beer contain high amounts of purines, which turn into uric acid during digestion. Consuming foods high in added sugars can also cause your body to make more uric acid.  Some foods to avoid include liver, kidneys, sweetbreads, brain, beef, pork, and lamb are the most common. Also shellfish, oily fish, canned fish, fruit juices and sugary sodas, cakes, biscuits, sweets and similar items should also be limited.

According to the Dash diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), an eating pattern that’s designed to help people lower their blood pressure. It’s also used to manage gout.

DASH encourages you to build your meals and snacks around:

- Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

- Lean protein from meat, poultry, fish, nuts, and legumes

- Vegetable oils

- Low-fat or non-fat dairy

This diet limits saturated fats and foods high in added sugar. Some types of fish may be associated with gout flares depending on how well your gout is controlled. Read more at www.healthline.com

Supplied by Glyn Hardwicke

IMPROVEMENTS AT PYLE SWIMMING POOL

I was delighted to see the results of a recent £200,000 investment into new facilities at Pyle Swimming Pool. This 25-metre long, six-lane pool is already a popular community facility, especially as it features a well-equipped gym and a range of fitness classes and wellbeing activities. Bridgend County Borough Council and Halo Leisure have worked together to create modern family changing rooms in both the male and female changing areas.

More than 30 new cubicles have been added along with new vanity units, energy efficient showers and lighting, upgraded ceilings and more.

Accessible changing spaces constructed at the poolside now incorporate the latest equipment for people who need additional support, including innovative ‘pool pods’ which can lower a wheelchair provided as part of the pod into the water to support people with mobility issues.

All of the upgrades take into account specific accessibility issues as well as carbon reduction measures, and are enabling more people than ever before to enjoy the local pool for leisure, exercise and therapeutic means. The swimming pool celebrated its 40th anniversary recently, and I am sure that this latest round of investment will enable it to continue to serve the local community for many more years to come.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING A MUST FOR NEW SITE

Bridgend County Borough Council’s regeneration plans have moved a step closer following news that Welsh Government has purchased vital tracts of land in the Sandy Bay area.

As part of a wider 20 hectare redevelopment zone, the funfair, which will continue to operate for approximately three more years, will eventually join the former monster park site to provide all-new retail, commercial, educational, recreational, and leisure opportunities.

This includes up to 900 low carbon new homes, up to half of which will be affordable – a vital factor in addressing the national housing shortage.

Griffin Park will double in size, access to the beach will improve, and new retail, business and visitor facilities will be introduced along with a new Welsh-medium primary school. The plans also reflect feedback from a recent consultation where people were asked how they want to use the public open space that this project will deliver – this is in addition to a 200 metre seaside park already planned as part of the nearby Salt Lake development.

With the overall site now unlocked, Welsh Government and the council will work closely together to regenerate the area in line with the Local Development Plan and the Placemaking Strategy for Porthcawl – look out for more news soon.

Tel: 01656 643643

01656 643643

COUNCILLOR NEELO FARR Cabinet Member for Regeneration Bridgend County Borough Council

COUNCILLOR JANE GEBBIE Deputy Leader Bridgend County Borough Council

SEAFRONT DEVELOPMENT

Like many of you, I am closely following the announcement of the sea front development.

It’s vital that, if new developments go ahead, then we have the infrastructure needed to support it. This means all parties, including Bridgend County Borough Council, living up to their side of the bargain.

While it’s welcome that a new school will go alongside new houses, there is still no new GP surgery planned. This is causing huge concern among the residents who have contacted me. Together with the struggles many people have experienced with Porthcawl Pharmacy, this leaves many people at risk of not getting the treatment that they need.

Furthermore, the proposed Porthcawl bus terminus, promised by the Council, still has not been delivered. Despite continuous promises, we are still no nearer to the station being delivered. If this crucial infrastructure is not delivered, not only will residents face more congestion, but our brilliant local tourism offer could be affected by this lack of transport links. For the sake of confidence in our planning system, these promises must be kept.

I will keep fighting on behalf of residents for the infrastructure we need to sustain Porthcawl well

COSY CORNER PREPARES TO OPEN

With the new Aldi store at Salt Lake making great progress and news that Welsh Government has secured land at Sandy Bay vital for the council’s ongoing regeneration plans, there is a huge amount of activity going on in Porthcawl right now, and the development at Cosy Corner looks set to become the latest to be completed.

This is despite the discovery of a large amount of asbestos beneath the site as the council commissioned specialist contractors to undertake its safe removal, and has already ensured that the land is safe to be enjoyed by the whole community.

Part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund through Welsh Government, the completed Cosy Corner development will feature an all-new stone and glass-clad building suitable for five small retail units, public toilets, meeting space for community use, offices for the harbour master, changing facilities for users of the nearby marina and more.

The new development will also feature an outdoor children’s play area, new landscaping with plenty of public seating, space for staging events, and a canopy capable of providing comfortable outdoor shelter from rain and the sun. As I write this, the work is in the final stages so look out for opening details very soon.

CARERS CENTRE WELCOMES ROYAL GUEST

Bridgend Carers Centre got the royal seal of approval when Princess Anne visited their base. She met staff and volunteers who provide the services as well as some of the carers they help. I have visited the centre myself several times and am amazed by the sheer scope of what they do.

Although most of us think of carers as people looking after elderly parents or their own partners, there are also those looking after children and, perhaps saddest of all, children who provide care for a parent. This is a cruel role reversal, which has the power to rob the young person of their childhood.

But Bridgend Carers Centre has all avenues covered. They provide wonderful support, especially for young carers –arranging trips and treats for them. They also provide a weekly lunch where carers and cared-for can enjoy a few hours in a place where they can access the help they need whilst also enjoying a chat and a cuppa. Other activities like yoga and gardening are also laid on.

But half the battle for many will be the knowledge that they are not alone and that help is just a phone call away.

Tel: 01656 643643

TIME TO CHANGE COURSE IN PORTHCAWL

I SHARE the concerns expressed by Porthcawl Civic Trust Society about the proposals in the Draft Replacement LDP drawn up by Bridgend CBC.

The council has stated time and again that it wants Porthcawl to become a premier seaside resort with a flourishing tourism sector.

But what does this plan actually do?  It simply reiterates previous proposals to build over 1100 new dwellings, on land at Sandy Bay and Salt Lake. This will be achieved by eradicating almost all the car parking currently provided at Salt Lake.

The plan also marks the end of the road for Porthcawl’s famed Coney Beach fairground and does not provide a single new attraction for visitors - just the usual shops and cafes. Where is the vision and the ambition?

Even if people still come, where will they park?  2000 of the 2600 parking spaces currently available will be lost. The council needs to abandon its fantasy scenario where people cycle or catch buses to Porthcawl and instead plan for those who will arrive by car. If they don’t change course, Porthcawl will become another coastal town attractive to retirees while jobs in the tourism sector for young people will be lost.

DR ALTAF HUSSAIN Regional Senedd Member

COUNCILLOR HUW DAVID

Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council

TOM GIFFARD

Welsh Conservative regional Senedd member for South Wales West

JAMIE WALLIS MP for Bridgend

Recycle your green waste including plants, flowers, weeds, grass, leaves and hedge clippings.

Collections every two weeks on the same day as your bin bags from 13 March to 17 November.

Subscription charge of £46.01, or £41.73 for pensioners.

Sign up online at bridgend.kier.co.uk

Ailgylchwch eich gwastraff gardd, gan gynnwys planhigion, blodau, chwyn, porfa, dail a gwrychoedd.

Bydd casgliadau bob pythefnos ar yr un dydd â’ch gwastraff cyffredinol o 13 Mawrth i 17 Tachwedd.

Tâl gwasanaeth o £46.01 neu £41.73 i bensiynwyr.

Cofrestrwch ar-lein yn bridgend.kier.co.uk

When contacting advertisers, please say you saw them in the Seaside

It was fantastic recently to hold our first Awards Evening at Porthcawl Comprehensive School since 2019! It was especially meaningful to spend the evening with so many of you from the PCS community – recognising achievement and celebrating success together, with so many pupils receiving public appreciation for all their hard work. All pupils, both past and present have done so tremendously well, we are very proud of your achievements.

There have been lots of smiles at PCS as our Year 13 pupils have recently had their final ‘leavers’ photos taken as they prepare for their last term at school. They are all working very hard towards their final qualifications and exam season is already upon us with GCSE and A Level examinations start soon. We wish all pupils in KS4 and KS5 the very best for the weeks and months ahead. Keep up the hard work! Extra-curricular opportunities continue with pupils in KS4 and KS5 visiting the Natural History Museum and the V&A Museum in London just before Easter and our pupils have recently returned from trips to Paris and Berlin.

Mr Stephens, Head Teacher

CYNFFIG NEWS

Firstly congratulations to our Year 12 Engineering Education Scheme team who represented Cynffig at the national awards and presentation day in the Swansea Arena. It was the culmination of a 6 month journey with 62 schools and colleges attending the event. After multiple rounds of presentations and challenging questions the team were awarded the ‘Most Innovative Design or Adapted Design.’

Congratulations also to our Criw Cymraeg who attended a celebration ceremony in Cardiff to receive our Siarter Iaith Bronze Award certificate. Having won investment from the Siarter Iaith’s Dragon Den’s competition, our Criw Cymraeg are

now in the process of setting up a shop to sell ‘Cynffig Chwech’ merchandise.

Year 9 pupils have been preparing for their futures with Seren pupils enjoying an invaluable experience about studying and student life at Bath University and the year group enjoying a visit from Tim Penn who worked with them on entrepreneurship and the importance of language in industry. Our Year 10 pupils made quite an impression on local business people and representatives from Velindre when they pitched their ideas for raising funds for the charity. Our pupils were praised for their ‘outstanding preparation’ and being an ‘inspiring group of young people’. We certainly agree!

Hannah Castle, Head Teacher

NOTTAGE PRIMARY NEWS

Our Cynefin* Topic ended successfully with an amazing whole school singalong and question and answer session with bilingual, singer song writer and BBC Radio Wales presenter, Bronwen Lewis. Bendigedig!

We definitely feel *a sense of belonging in our community with Porthcawl Museum Visits and Talks, a mystery bus tour of Porthcawl, many ‘People Who Help Us’ visits and an incredible contrasting locality, London Visit.

We have made posters and leaflets, recorded adverts, debated land use in Porthcawl and taken part in the Porthcawl Open Space Regeneration Project Competition. Our School Eisteddfod celebrating Wales, numerous sports meets, local residential care home visits, Eco Walk to School Week, library, RNLI, town, beach, harbour and Aldi site visits all supported our studies of our locality.

Our ‘Big Bocs Bwyd’ food waste reduction scheme and ‘Rail of Kindness’ coat share continue to have an impact in our community.

The fun packed term accelerated towards Easter with many Easter trails and hunts, a multi-sensory experience of ‘Easter Through the Keyhole’ provided by Grace Community Church, an Easter Bonnet singalong at the Masonic Residential Home and an ‘eggs’cellent Easter around the World assembly. ‘Eggs’traordinary!

Amanda Bloomfield

For information contact 01656 815540 admin@nottageps.bridgend.cymru

NEWYDDION SGÊR

It was wonderful to see the children performing and competing in the Urdd Eisteddfod again. Congratulations to the Disco Dancing group for coming third and to Alicia for coming first. Good luck to Alicia who will be competing in the National Urdd Eisteddfod in May.

Representatives from the Pupils’ Voice Committee met online with Chris Lewis, Project Manager in BCBC, to learn about the consultation into a seedling school in Porthcawl. Well done for contributing to the process.

The whole school watched “Hud y Byd” (“Magic of the World”) show performed by Adlib Cymru. We visited European countries, travelled back in time and met some famous painters. At the end of the show there were magic tricks to astound us all.

The sports teams have been busy this half term, with the Urdd rugby tournament and home games against local schools. Thanks to West Park and Mynydd Cynffig primaries for visiting us at home.

Year 6 visited the Crucial Crew to learn about rail safety and being responsible citizens. They all thoroughly enjoyed. There was plenty of egg-citement when the PTA held an Easter egg hunt on the last day of term. Everyone had en egg-cellent time!

ST CLARE’S SCHOOL

eye test

From your child’s first day, we lay the foundation for a love of learning that will remain with them throughout the course of their school life, providing a bedrock for future success. As part of St Clare’s family, they can access eleven acres of magnificent grounds and all our facilities and resources.

With our innovative new Early Years curriculum and outstanding level of care, your child will receive all the support they require to develop into curious, confident and rounded young people. Reception class is a supportive and fun bridge between Nursery and the more formal educational experience enjoyed from Year 1.

Literacy and Numeracy are taught daily in Reception, where children participate in a range of practical activities to support their learning. We balance the academics with Spanish/French, PE and Music taught by experienced subject specialists. Children also enjoy Forest School every week.

Our deliberately smaller classes allow staff to truly tailor their teaching expertise to pupils’ individual needs and abilities. As pupils progress from Reception through Years 1 and 2, they often demonstrate advanced reading levels for their age. Pupils are encouraged to be innovators and creative and use iPads and Smart boards to enhance teaching and learning.

Helen Hier, Head Teacher

TOOLS FOR SELF RELIANCE

THROUGH CHRISTIAN EYES

Hi folks, with Easter just gone, here’s another thought. A popular question these days is, ‘What is truth’? It’s not only a postmodern question but also springs from all the different events and related stories going on in the world today. And there’s a lot! What can we trust?

The Roman Governor Pilate asked Jesus the same question –What is truth? (John 18 v 38).

And Jesus said he was the truth (John 14 v 6). What does that mean?

Many readers know we send tools to Africa but may not know the following:

- 18,500 people participated in our projects over the last 10 years learning vocational skills they can use for work to build sustainable livelihoods.

- 640 people across the U.K. help with collecting, refurbishing and fund raising.

- 15,700 tools have been shipped in the last twelve months to five regions of Africa – Ghana, Malawi, Sierra Leone, Uganda and Zambia.

The population of these countries exist mainly on subsistence farming and about 80% of the people live on less than one dollar a day, they are trapped in this environment. Education is virtually nonexistent and disease is rife so charities such as ours supply the means to learn new life skills and use the tools we send to earn a living and give them a meaningful life. Did you know that we send refurbished sewing machines with a haberdashery kits so women and girls can learn to be seamstresses, they also get to take a machine home after training enabling them to make garments to sell so they can buy more materials?

The tools you donate are vital to the success of these projects. For tool collections please contact John on 01656 786367.

David Cook, Workshop manager

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN PORTHCAWL

Annwyl Gyfeillion – Dear Friends, ‘I pray that God may give you a spirit of wisdom…so you may know what is the hope to which he has called you’ (Ephesians 1:17-18). Having celebrated the resurrection of Jesus at Easter, it is with joyful hope that we invite you to join in our events this month for Christian Aid:

Tuesday 2nd May, 2.00pm at All Saints: A talk by Jennie Weaver about Christian Aid’s work and mission.

Monday 8th May (‘The Big Help Out’): meet us at the Bandstand, John Street; learn about our work and fundraising.

Saturday 13th May, 12-3pm: A ‘Holy Hike’ for Christian Aid calling at all our member churches! Could you sponsor us? More details on our Facebook: www.facebook.com/eglwysi

Why not join us for afternoon tea that same day at St John’s, Newton, from 3pm? All welcome.

Sunday 21st May, 3pm at All Saints: a special joint service reflecting on Christian Aid’s work. Finally, our special thanks to Jonathan Hurley Design (https://www.jonhurleydesign.com/) for designing our new logo! The scallop shell marks both our seaside location, as well as our individual faith journeys as Christians here in Porthcawl.

Pob bendith – every blessing.

Neil Harvey

In the Greek language the word truth and reality are the same so when Jesus claimed to be the truth, he was saying he is ultimate realty. I think ultimate reality is something that is eternal. Scientists tell us that if we ever get there, one day the sun will burn out. In other words, the world as we knew it will not last forever. But because of the eternal existence of God and – Jesus, shown by his resurrection, then surely Jesus is ultimate reality and ultimate truth. There are many proofs for the resurrection. Two for now – is all the disciples were willing to die for what they said they saw and the ongoing fact that Jesus changes lives.

Neil Harvey

Deadline date for the June issue is:

MONDAY 15TH MAY

PORTHCAWL LIONS

Summer isn’t too far away and Porthcawl Lions are holding the first of the weekly car boot sales at Pyle Rugby Club on Sunday 7th May, 7.30am and 1.00pm. Cost for sellers is £7 per car. It is hoped to hold these sales every Sunday, weather permitting, until September.

There is still time to enter teams of 4 into the Golf Day on Friday 9th June at The Grove Golf Club. The cost is £160 per team to include lunch and prizes.

Being able to once again hold events means that Lions are in a better position to help more deserving causes once more.

In April the club made donations to the Seahorse, Porthcawl, to support the NICU at Singleton Hospital and Cornelly Development Trust as well as continuing its regular monthly payments to KPC Youth and Porthcawl Pantry.

In April one of Porthcawl Lions founder members celebrated his 90th. birthday. Don has always been and still is a very active member who is both well liked and respected. Everyone in Porthcawl Lions sends him congratulations and very warmest wishes for the future.

FEATURES

BRIDGEND SOROPTIMISTS FASHION SHOW

funds !! The villagers then assist in the digging of the school’s foundation by hand under Stanley’s supervision. Termites are a real problem in Monze, they eat virtually everything except concrete, steel and plastic so quickly destroy books and wood. Termites mean no wood is used in construction and chemicals need to be added to the concrete foundations to deter them.

So far Friends of Monze with the support of partner charity Zambian Women and Girls Foundation have built and equipped 13 schools in the Monze region!

Contact us: www.friendsofmonze.org.uk or Facebook

Belinda Green

CYCLING WITHOUT AGE

Speaker Steve gave us an interesting talk on the Porthcawl Joy Riders, at the Porthcawl Stroke Club.

On 22nd March Bridgend Soroptimists held a sell-out Fashion Show at the Heronston Hotel, Bridgend. Samantha B boutique of Ewenny provided a wonderful range of outfits to suit all occasions and club members  took to the catwalk displaying the fashions for the coming spring and summer seasons. The audience enjoyed a glass of wine together with a raffle for an impressive range of prizes so generously  donated in support of Cruse Bereavement Council. The event raised a total of £2,000. If you are interested in learning more about Bridgend Soroptimists follow us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/ BridgendSoroptimists or the website http://sigbi.org/bridgendand-district/  New members welcome.

Eileen Bayley Publicity/Communications Officer

FRIENDS OF MONZE ( ZAMBIA)

Porthcawl Joy riders!! what a brilliant idea, which started up in Demark is International with 52 countries now involved England, Scotland, Ireland and Porthcawl being the first in Wales.

The voluntary organisation is linked to the World Development Agency; who cater for the wellbeing of individuals that can enjoy social freedom in their communities. A breath of fresh air, nothing like it, especially in a seaside town like Porthcawl.

Age is no barrier, they cater for special needs schools, care homes, any individual living at home, who have restrictions from their health and wellbeing. Doctors’ surgeries are now using social prescriptions to enhance, enrich and extend the lives of the older folk and the less abled of Porthcawl and Bridgend.

The Trishaw rides are free and are active all through the year, the ride can be for 30minutes or up to one hour; with a stop on the way for tea, coffee, or ice cream, obviously, people would have to pay for those themselves. All volunteers are fully trained and qualified riders.

Contact Steve on Tel:07791101081 or face book.

Barbara Matthews

SKER WI

We are a Bridgend based registered charity that helps rural villagers build a school for their children. Many areas do not have a school and children are ‘educated’ under a tree or in the back room of a shop without a qualified teacher.

Once there is a water supply, the villagers have made 17 000 bricks, collected sand and made stone chippings, then our Zambian partner charity visits the village to review the quality and quantity of everything.

Once satisfied they call in Stanley the local experienced builder and his team to build the school – provided we have adequate

The next meeting for Sker WI will be on the 11th May at St David’s Church Hall at 6.30pm.  I will be our Annual meeting together with a Buffet for members to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III. There will be a link meeting at Margam Abbey on the 10th May, it will be good to be able to connect again with our Link WI’s.

Jackie Jones

We had a very interesting talk on April 5th given by wellknown historian Dean Powell about the history of our Welsh choirs, it was fascinating listening to the amazing things they’ve achieved over the years and the things they got up to, including a windy hillside and a toupee, enough said! this was followed by our very successful and well-attended AGM. April also saw a reorganisation for some our groups which included changes of venues, changing days or times, and some changing completely, our members have taken everything in their stride and in a very good-natured way, but I do wonder if anyone forget and turned at the wrong time or place! We added a new interest group as well this month, Rummikub, this was devised in the 1930’s from the card game Rummy and Mah-jong, please come along and give it a try, it’s very interesting, check out our website for details. Our Sunday lunch group is restarting after a break, and we have plenty to look forward to as we move into the summer months. Website: porthcawlu3a.org.uk

PORTHCAWL TOWNSWOMENS GUILD NEWS

Once again last months meeting started on a sad note as members were asked to stand in memory of Ruth Lloyd. Ruth was a long-term committee member and ran our craft group. She will be greatly missed. Dreadful weather yet again caused the cancellation of our speaker, with car problems. So we had a social afternoon always good to catch up on chat not possible on busy guild days. Our chairman Helen told us of interesting new ideas for guild activities and welcomed suggestions. We are looking forward to our Coronation lunch on May 4th, suitably dressed!

This months meeting is on Wednesday May 10th 2.00 p.m. at The Grove Golf Club when Debra John will be our speaker. We are assured of a good afternoon with Debra so do drop in at the Grove and hear what she has to say. All welcome!

Dorothy Thomas

Tel: 01656 772157

MYNYDD CYNFFIG WI

We were in the Talbot Center Kenfig Hill on Tuesday 11th April, members braved the weather to meet and enjoy each other company. WI business discussed and sorted our walking, scrabble and lunch clubs organised We are also attending Federation AGM in Port Talbot also the National AGM in Cardiff both days out will be very enjoyable. we went on to discuss what is happening next month our AGM plus our coronation tea. Members were asked to ware something that included red white or blue so watch this space We meet the 2nd Tuesday of the month 2pm to 4pm you can pop in to meet us we are a very friendly group and you can have tea and biscuits as well.

Christine Callaghan

Email:

Porthcawl RNLI volunteers had to leave the wedding of one of their own crew, Reverend Mark Broadway when the pagers sounded on Saturday 18 March. The vicar, Reverend Wayne Massey had started the service by saying, ‘switch off your phones, unless you’re lifeboat crew’ but hadn’t expected the pagers to sound, just 17 minutes later.

Swapping suits for drysuits the crew launched the charity’s Atlantic 85 Edna May and D Class Hugo Missen following reports that two people were cut off by the tide at Dunraven Bay, Southerndown. Due to size of the surf breaking onto the shore a decision was made that the safest method of extraction would be by Coastguard Rescue Helicopter, which landed at the base of the cliffs to extract the casualties.

Following the callout the D Class crew stopped off at All Saint’s church with the lifeboat to congratulate the new Rev. Mark Broadway and Mrs. Jessie Broadway.

Chris Page

FOSTER WALES BRIDGEND PREPARES FOR FOSTER CARE FORTNIGHT

Foster Wales Bridgend is your local authority fostering service in Bridgend and we’re part of the national network of all 22 Welsh local authority fostering services.

Every May we celebrate Foster Care Fortnight, raising awareness of the need for more foster carers/families. It showcases the passion, dedication, and commitment of the foster carers we already have, and hopefully inspires more people to consider fostering with us.

Children, babies, and young people in Bridgend need a safe place to call home. The stories you hear in the news about fostering are often negative but Foster Care Fortnight helps to shine a light on all the positive, real and heart-warming elements of fostering too.

We encourage you to learn more about fostering, and how fostering with Foster Wales Bridgend means putting local children first. It’s making the commitment to do what’s best for them, in an area that they’re already familiar with, through a not-for-profit service.

Visit www.bridgend.fosterwales.gov.wales for further information on types of fostering, who can foster, and to request a chat with our friendly recruitment officer.

Join us on socials @fosterwalesbridgend this Foster Care Fortnight!

ROTARY CLUB GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY

NEWTON WI

The April meeting commenced with a minute’s silence, in memory of a dear and very much loved member : Barbara Thomas. Barbara was a faithful and active member of Newton WI for many years, she was a wonderful lady and will be sadly missed.

Easter bonnets and decorated eggs were the order of the evening, the bonnet parade was tremendous fun with our Ladies looking resplendent in their fabulous creations. Unfortunately there can only be one winner, and this year the prize went to Pat Richards. The winner of the very cleverly designed egg, was Liz Richards.

At the end of the month we are looking forward to attending Shirley’s lunch at the Globe Inn, also the summer outing, which is in the process of being organized for July.

Lots to look forward to in the weeks and months to come.

M Freeman

RNLI VOLUNTEERS AWARDED FOR LIFESAVING RESCUE OF SURFER

Porthcawl Rotary Club recently held a special Golden Anniversary dinner event at the Hi-Tide in honour of Rotarian David Morgan for his continuous 50 years’ service to Rotary. Porthcawl President Carol Llewellyn presented the certificate. The Rotarians, together with members of the Inner Wheel Club and other invited guests, enjoyed an evening of reflection and Rotary fellowship. Many Rotarians paid tribute to David and reminded him of his past achievements including becoming President of Rotary Great Britain and Ireland. David gave a wonderful speech; reflecting on his time with Rotary and some of the projects he was instrumental in developing. He spoke with pride about his years in Rotary and is looking forward to future projects.

President Carol Llewellyn thanked everyone for attending this special occasion and being part of celebrating all David’s achievements.

Rtn Robert Lee

Porthcawl RNLI volunteers have been presented with awards for their courage, selflessness and determination in rescuing a surfer in challenging conditions.

The surfer had been swept around a headland in a rip current and was trapped beneath cliffs at Monknash in January 2020. Luckily, some bystanders realised the surfer was in trouble and called the Coastguard on 999. There was a heavy swell and the tide was still incoming; time was against the crew.

‘The conditions were fairly challenging with 1-2m breaking waves but I managed to position the lifeboat in the surf zone so that the crew could pull the surfer from the water’ said Chris Missen, helm of Porthcawl Lifeboat.

Chris has been presented with a Chairman’s Letter of Thanks and volunteer crew members Christopher Kitney, Angharad Masson and Ryan Lecraw have received a Lifesaving Operations Director Commendation

Chris Page

THE GOLDEN AGE OF HOLLYWOOD: FAY WRAY

Of Welsh ancestry, Fay Wray (September 15, 1907 – August 8, 2004), made her movie debut in 1923 in Gasoline Love.

Fay achieved fame as Ann Darrow in her 58th movie, King Kong, which was released in 1933. Selected as one of the “WAMPAS Baby Stars of 1926”, her career developed and spanned six decades.

Regarded as one of the early “Scream Queens” she featured in a variety of roles until her retirement in 1980.

According to Fay Wray, Jean Harlow had been RKO’s original choice for Ann Darrow, but because of her MGM contract, she was unavailable. Fay received $10,000 for her portrayal of Ann Darrow, the equivalent of $200,000 today.

Along with co-star Robert Armstrong, Fay filmed The Most Dangerous Game at night and King Kong during the day, both movies utilising the same jungle sets in Hollywood.

Later in her career, James Cameron invited Fay to play the part of Rose Dawson Calvert in Titanic, 1997, with Kate Winslet playing her younger self, but she declined the role. Gloria Stuart stepped in and won an Oscar nomination. Hannah Howe, author of Tula, a novel about an actress in the Golden Age of Hollywood. https://hannah-howe.com

THE BUFFS OF PORTHCAWL

Thursday 16th December 1915 an article appeared in the Porthcawl News inviting ‘all who are interested in forming a Buffalo Lodge at Porthcawl to meet at the Brogden Hotel’ the following Monday. The aim of ‘The Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes,’ known colloquially as ‘The Buffs.’ was, and still is, to aid members and other charities. Nationally formed in 1822, in WW1 The Buffs had supported the war effort through supplying ambulances to bring wounded soldiers back from the front; each one manned by ‘Volunteer Buffs.’. Yet, although the war affected National membership with many lodges closing, in February 1917 the Porthcawl Brogden Lodge held its first annual dinner at the Brogden Hotel. In the 1920’s the Lodge had moved to The Rock Hotel. (photograph)

The Brogden Lodge grew steadily forging links with other lodges. In 1932 Seven Sisters Lodge’s annual outing was to Porthcawl. Brogden Lodge also had outings in its own vehicle. (Photograph - Note the Buffalo head on the bonnet.)

Although references to The Brogden Lodge continued until after WW2 it seemed to have disappeared until the new ‘Porthcawl Pride’ Lodge was inaugurated at the Brogden Hotel in March 1978. It too must have ceased as today the nearest lodges are in Pencoed and Port Talbot.

Ceri Joseph

MINI DIGGER

TRACK BARROWS DUMPERS

SOME LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL?

It’s amazing just how a few months of volatility can have such an effect on our lives, especially where financial matters are concerned.

With over a million UK mortgages due for renewal over the next month or so, there will be people coming off rates of around 2.5% to 3% to find that this will now be around 4.5% to 6%, which could be a real challenge for some. However, the rates we are now seeing have actually come down from the levels seen in January and are nearing the rates that we all had only 5 years ago, which is when a lot of people took out a mortgage, perhaps for the first time.

What’s changed now is that along with the increase in the cost of living and inflation hovering still at around 10%, affordability is the key to financial stability.

However, there is plenty of help to guide you through, so don’t try and ignore the problem as it will just sit there, prolonging the uncertainty, when you could pick up the phone and arrange a chat with us. We have access to the whole market and could help you secure a new deal, which could help lessen the financial blow, subject to certain conditions being met. The same issue exists for those of you in or near retirement, where you have a mortgage that has to be redeemed and you don’t have the capital to repay it, which is a very real problem situation. Or it could be that you need capital for home improvements or essential repairs or even helping family members who are in need of assistance.

Again, interest rates here for later life borrowing, although not yet back to the levels of last summer, have recently started to decrease markedly and could provide you with the answer when there seems you have nowhere to go to find a solution. This is where our expertise and experience of the needs and solutions for this section of the population comes in – and again, we have access to all the specialist lenders that will be looking to help you, again as long as certain conditions are met.

Talking to us at our office place or your home is free of charge and without any kind of obligation, so you’ve nothing to lose but possibly very much to gain. Call us on 01656 782545 or 07768 418308, and we’ll either answer immediately or come back to you smartly if we’re busy with others when you call. Weekend calls to the mobile number will be answered over that weekend where possible.

PAUL FIELDING

Dragon Financial

01656 782545 / 07768 418308

DISASTEROUS INVESTMENTS & MISTAKES

We all make mistakes, some bigger than others. Mine was being beguiled by oil shares many years ago, having taken a tip from an old friend. As investors waited impatiently for companies to strike oil in the Outer Hebrides and Falkland Isles, we bought more shares, so prices shot up further in anticipation of making a fortune, and investors got totally carried away in the mele. It’s what they call the fear of missing out or ‘FOMO’ if you like acronyms. Then the dreaded day came when they all hit ‘dusters’ and no one spoke of it again. Then there was the African gold mine ‘100 bagger’ they said, well now it’s just a hole in the ground along with the one in my pocket. Those experiences are the best but most painful of lessons, as you learn ‘buy on fact and sell on rumour’.

Bit coin and crypto currency have taken over from all of that, but we won’t go there will we! Some poor chap in Newport is still trying to find his computer hard drive that he accidentally threw on the tip, to find his crypto coding went with it, along with a couple of million, allegedly.

Human nature can be quite perverse. We actually like to hear disastrous stories as it makes us feel better as we were not the ones to lose out or feel foolish. That’s the reason why you only hear about bets on winning horses and seldom on losers. Buy value art in an auction they said. I bought an original Luis Wain at a tasty price and hung it in pride of place for years. At a recent valuation they said it was a fake! God you cannot trust anyone!

I always chuckle when I think of the man who built a boat in his garage, which proved too big to get out through the doors. Then nearer to home my ex-gardener who put a new chain on the chainsaw back to front, and then took it to Newton Mowers claiming it was blunt.

So what’s the moral coming out of this? If you are going to do or buy anything important, seek expert advice. Don’t be a gambler and don’t take tips from strangers and especially not from friends. If you ever go onto blogging sites for investment tips, they like to warn you to do your own research ‘DYOR’. Me, I’d find a financial advisor these days, as it happens it’s my daughter Pippa, she’s more qualified than me!

Philip Vaughan is a Director at Abacus Assurance Financial Services Ltd Porthcawl 01656 772222

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

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

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

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

If you would like more information please contact:

TRUSTS

A trust enables a ‘settlor’ to give away assets on terms set out in the trust deed. This deed identifies the trustees, beneficiaries and dictates how it is to operate. Legally, ownership of the assets (the trust property) passes from the settlor to the trustees of the trust - the trustees become the owner of the assets, instead of the settlor. However, the trustees must look after the assets according to the trust deed.

The trust can provide that different beneficiaries may receive different benefits from the trust. For example, a settlor might want prevent assets passing to a child until they reach a specified age, or to ensure that a spouse can continue to benefit from certain assets even after they (the settlor) has passed away.

A settlor can set up a trust during their lifetime or can provide for a trust to be set up in their will. It is recommended that the settlor write a letter of wishes regarding the trust. These are not legally binding but can be helpful in instances where the trust is discretionary in nature, or the trust deliberately excludes relatives, for example.

The trustees have a legal duty to act fairly, balancing the interests of the different beneficiaries and can claim expenses and professional charges (if applicable) from the trust. There are various types of trust that can suit a wide variety of circumstances. An example is a bare trust, the simplest form of trust in which the beneficiary is absolutely entitled to the trust property (provided the beneficiary is 18 or over and mentally capable). These are often used to hold investments for children, or where the settlor wishes to remain anonymous. Another example is an interest in possession trust, under which a beneficiary is entitled to the net income of the trust. In a discretionary trust, the trustees have more discretion over how they distribute income and capital, often providing income to each beneficiary when the need arises, to pay for a child’s education, for example.

Accumulation trusts are now seldom used due to their tax advantages being cut back.

Taxation of the trust should be considered when deciding to set up a trust. The best course of action as far as taxation is concerned is to contact a qualified tax expert. Make an appointment with a legal professional to identify which type of trust is most suitable for you.

SOCIAL MEDIA POLICIES

The BBC sports presenter Gary Lineker was recently suspended from work and temporarily removed as presenter on Match of the Day, following a tweet which saw him compare the language used in the Government’s new asylum legislation to that of 1930s Germany.

Lineker was eventually reinstated at the BBC which issued an apology for any confusion caused by “grey areas” of their social media guidance.

It is important for an employer to have robust, clear and appropriate policies surrounding employees’ use of social media that clearly demonstrate what is, and what is not acceptable. In doing so, employers could be protected from serious potential disrepute especially in terms of social media, where posts can quickly spiral out of control and create negative publicity for businesses.

Social media policies are vital in ensuring that businesses are able to promote and control their reputation, whilst also ensuring the correct information is communicated to its members of staff and clients. There are a large number of issues that can arise for employers if a member of staff inappropriately uses social media, such as:

• Potential unauthorised disclosure of confidential information.

• Liability for discriminatory or defamatory comments posted by employees.

• Reputational damage.

As social media platforms continue to thrive, and the law is consistently developing, it has never been more important for employers to ensure that they are conducting regular reviews of their policies and are amending these to ensure that they offer adequate protection which accurately reflects the ever-changing law, the business sector within which they operate in, and their personal business values.

The Employment Team at Redkite Solicitors has a wealth of knowledge of advising on and drafting social media policies. The Employment Team is also able to provide comprehensive advice on the best practice for dealing with breaches of policies, such as social media.

Red Kite Law LLP

01656 782070

01792 65 00 00

MADELINE RAND

LALESTON GARDENING CLUB

learnt all about the flowers and foliage we should be growing in our own gardens and were given many tips from the Head Nurseryman at Cardiff’s Bute Park. Our April Practice night is titled ‘Welcome to spring’. We will be making a triangular arrangement with spring flowers.

Our May demonstration is by Barbara Cummings and we have a club competition in June. We also have Practice nights on May 24th and and June 28th. There is a social trip on May 20th and more in the planning stage.

We are always delighted to welcome new members and visitors are also welcome at our meetings. You may enrol at any time if you wish to join. We meet on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday evenings of the month at Awel y Mor Centre at 7pm. Please check out our Facebook page and WhatsApp group for more information.

Alison Thomas, Club Secretary 07581 048448

May is a wonderful month of new beginnings in the garden, but I still ere on the side of caution and don’t plant out tender plants until the end of the month.  The occasional frost and cold winds can still catch us gardeners out.  Bedding plants should be hardening off in cold frames or sheltered places, it’s time to plant up root cuttings and pot on those root bound perennials in pots.  If your tomatoes are established start removing side shoots and feeding.  Plant out sweet peas, outdoor tomatoes, sow hardy annuals outdoors straight into the soil,  water newly emerging crops in dry spells and earth up early potatoes. Weeds and lawns are growing too so plenty to keep everyone busy, but don’t panic if you can’t get to everything, sit down and enjoy the view.

Our plant sale will be held on Saturday 13th May entry at 10am, early birds will get the best of the plants. We will also have a cake stall, a hand made card stall and a coffee morning in the hall.  As usual we will be holding one of our bumper raffles so don’t forget your ticket.  All funds raised contribute to the upkeep of our wonderful Cliff Cottage.  Our new six windows are now installed and looking good! Grateful thanks to the National Lottery Community Fund.

Susan Ford

PORTHCAWL FLORAL ARRANGEMENT SOCIETY

CEFN CRIBWR GARDENING CLUB

We are celebrating spring in our club and are making the most of the abundance of flowers and foliage available. We had a practice night in March, which allowed us to accessorise our displays with hats, gloves and jewellery. We then enjoyed a wonderful talk by Kevin Thomas in our next meeting. We

A beautiful garden in May is the very best life can offer (Monty Don).

Time to cut back certain herbaceous perennial (phlox, sedums and Echinacea) once they start growing robustly, to keep them looking neat and encourage a second burst of flowers. This is called the ‘Chelsea Chop’ as it’s done the same time as the flower show! I’m sure your plants are worthy of Chelsea! Divide clumps of primroses (Latin for first rose) they are sweet and easy going plants, responding well with new healthy growth – well worth it!

Warmer weather and fresh new growth makes springtime pests paradise! All the nasties flourish like slugs and aphids (I can’t include snails because they are cute!) Best to deal with them early, beer traps are good but make sure they stick up from the ground otherwise helpful pest predators like ground beetles and spiders will also be lured to their doom!

May is designated “no mow month” to create a homely habitat for bees and insects. In previous years it has been found that 80% of uncut lawns support around 400 bees a day taking nectar from dandelions and clover, how lovely (saves you cutting the lawn every week!)

Chris Early

What’s on

PORTHCAWL U3A

Is an organisation for people no longer in fulltime employment who want to keep socially, physically and academically active. We have over forty groups. Website: porthcawlu3a. org.uk. Email: info@porthcawlu3a. org.uk

PORTHCAWL LADIES BOWLS CLUB

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

PRINCE OF WALES

BOWLING CLUB

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

MONDAY

A TASTE OF YOGA, KENFIG

10.30-12pm & 6.30-8pm @ Kenfig Nature Reserve. Cost: Four Sessions £28. To book contact Angela 07980 936198 or Email: angelarock11@ hotmail.com

KENFIG HILL & DISTRICT MALE VOICE CHOIR

New members can join us at rehearsals on Monday and Thursday evenings from 7-9pm at The Choral Suite, Greenacres Motel, 111 Heol Fach, North Cornelly, CF33 4LH. Find us on Facebook, or https:// www.kenfighillmalechoir.wales Or contact the secretary Tony Ulberini at tonyulberini@gmail.com Tel: 07866 742452. Or Terry Thomas, Vice Chairman: terrypaulthomas1962@ gmail.com. Tel: 07577 406605.

LEARN TO ROCK N ROLL 50S STYLE

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

ROTARY PORTHCAWL

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

SLIMMING WORLD WITH MOLLY

6pm - The Scout Hall, Woodland Avenue, Porthcawl CF36 5HW. Call or text Molly on 07710 489645 for more details.

TUESDAY

PORTHCAWL LIONS

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

Or call: 01656 784939.

PORTHCAWL MALE CHOIR

New members welcome. Rehersals Tuesday & Friday evening 7-9 pm at Arlington Road Church, Arlington Road, Porthcawl.

Further details contact either Choir Secretary, Noel Williams at (noel. williams185@btinternet.com) 07902 333559 or Public Relations Officer, Ian Williams (ianwilliams54@sky. com) 07927 219544. Check out our website and Facebook page for further details.

YOGA WITH MICHELE

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

WEDNESDAY

BRIDGEND SOROPTOMISTS

We meet at Heronston Hotel

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

COR BRO OGWR, BRIDGEND

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

Contact: 07972 245089.

NEWTON WI

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

PORTHCAWL ART SOCIETY

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

PORTHCAWL FLORAL ARRANGEMENT SOCIETY

Fancy creating exciting floral displays? Join our friendly group at Awel Y More Centre, Hutchwns

Terrace, Porthcawl, CF365TN. We meet on 2nd /4th Wednesdays at 7.30pm. Beginners and visitors welcome. We have tuition, demonstrations and social events. See our Facebook page or call Alison on 07581 048448.

PORTHCAWL STROKE CLUB

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

SLIMMING WORLD, PORTHCAWL

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

SLIMMING WORLD WITH MOLLY 6pm - The Public Hall, Heol Las, North Cornelly CF33 4AS. Call or text Molly on 07710 489645 for more details.

THURSDAY

BRIDGEND MALE CHOIR

Do you enjoy singing? The Choir Practice, 7.30 – 9.30 pm at Oldcastle Primary School, South Street, Bridgend every Thursday. Why not come, have a listen and check us out. New members and visitors very welcome. Contact Dave Deeley 07799 616120 or www.bridgendmalechoir.co.uk. Motto - Friendship through Music.

PYLE & PORTHCAWL

PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

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

SKER WI

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

SLIMMING WORLD, KENFIG HILL

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

SOCIAL TABLE TENNIS

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

FRIDAY

SLIMMING WORLD, PORTHCAWL

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

SATURDAY

LALESTON GARDENING CLUB

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

PORTHCAWL VETERANS HUB

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

PYLE & KENFIG HILL VETERANS ASSOCIATION

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

SLIMMING WORLD WITH MOLLY

8am & 9.30am - The Green Acre Motel, Heol Fach, North Cornelly CF33 4LH. Call or text Molly on 07710 489645 for more details.

SUNDAY

PORTHCAWL COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA

Rehearse every Sunday, 6-8pm in Nottage Scout Hall (The Precinct, by the Seagull pub), Porthcawl, CF36 3RF. Visit: www.porthcawlorchestra. co.uk to find out more.

WEDNESDAY10TH MAY

BRIDGEND SOROPTIMIST CLUB

BUSINESS MEETING

7pm @ Heronston Hotel, Bridgend.

Website: sigbi.org/bridgend-and-district/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/BridgendSoroptimists

WEDNESDAY 24TH MAY

BRIDGEND SOROPTIMIST

CLUB

SPEAKER/SUPPER MEETING

7pm @ Heronston Hotel, Bridgend. New Members Welcome.

Website: sigbi.org/bridgend-and-district/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/BridgendSoroptimists

TEAM TAKE ON NEWPORT MARATHON FOR MND

A team of five from Porthcawl tackled the Marathon at Newport on April 16th to raise funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association as part of a bigger fundraising project. Dave Dickson and elder daughter Elin formed a relay team with Deb Roberts and her daughter Molly and together they tried to run a faster cumulative time over the 26.2-mile distance than Will Edwards, who was running the marathon distance solo.  Team Dickson are on their way to raising £10,000 for the charity as their ‘Mothership’, Gemma, is battling against Motor Neurone Disease. The family have found the charity to be a beacon of hope through a tough storm.

As part of the fundraising some fun Six Nations Challenges took place including: guessing the scores; an online Virtual Team Manager; composing poems, songs and limericks; and some dance challenges, including Irish Dancing, Morris Dancing and the Can-Can.

Will Edwards was running in memory of the teacher who inspired him to become a doctor, Teifi Lloyd, who had MND. Thanks to all who donated and there is still an opportunity to donate on the following link: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/william-edwards28

RNLI SAMTAMPA MEMORIAL RUN

In 1947, 47 people lost their lives just off Sker Point including eight courageous RNLI crew members, who launched the Mumbles lifeboat in gale force winds to attempt the rescue of the Samtampa, which had foundered on the rocks at Sker. As part of the RNLI Mayday Appeal, Porthcawl Runners are organising an event to remember their sacrifice and to raise vital funds to support the local RNLI stations. Last year’s Samtampa Memorial Run was held along the seafront in Mumbles, and raised over £1,000 for the RNLI. This year’s run will be held in Porthcawl, with an iconic medal for all those who take part. The route, which is around 3.5 miles long, will start and end within sight of Porthcawl Lifeboat station.

There’s an amazing community of runners, walkers, swimmers and cyclists who enjoy the benefits of the beaches and coastal paths around Porthcawl, and we’d like to invite you all to show your support for this event and to help the crucial work done by the RNLI in our community. The run will be held on Sunday 14th May.

To enter, and to get up to date information about the run please visit our entry page at https://resultsbase.net/ event/6669

KAG GLASS SPLASHBACKS