SEASIDE NEWS: October 2023 issue

COVER PHOTO: Steve Jones, Porthcawl

YOUR ARTICLES, VIEWS, NEWS & REPORTS

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SEASIDE STITCHERS DONATED QUILT TO PORTHCAWL RNLI

PORTHCAWL REGENERATION

Dear Editor,

It’s a shame that BCBC’s new addition to Porthcawl Tourism, ‘ALDI’ has no pedestrian crossings supporting it from The Portway, no trolley park, indeed no traffic calming measures whatsoever, and the car park is already too small…look out Christmas! Also have you noticed that Aldi’s architecturally aesthetic “curved roof” actually faces the road along Portway, whilst from the Eastern Promenade, you can only see the nice trucks in the loading bay?

The bus station, sorry Metro Station, is underway and let’s hope unlike ALDI, that it will have pedestrian crossings and traffic mitigation measures supporting it?

Dear Editor,

The challenge was issued in August 2022 when members were given a square of background fabric and asked to illustrate anything related to the seaside or the RNLI. We were thrilled with their contributions - an ice cream van, lolly and ‘99’, a lighthouse, sailboats, treasure map, a surfer, dolphins and many more. We arranged the blocks at one of our monthly meetings in Arlington Road Presbyterian Church, Porthcawl and the quilt top was assembled. Different members added borders, quilted and bound it. The members voted to decide the name ‘Ar Lan y mor’ was chosen - a beautiful Welsh folk song as well as translating to ‘beside the sea’. We entered it in the Malvern spring quilt show and had lots of positive feedback from those who saw it. Many of our members are new to quilting so should be especially proud that their work has been seen by so many people as well as contributing to fund raising for such a worthy organisation.

Linda Parsons, Porthcawl

PORTHCAWL BRANCH OF KRUF DISSOLVED

Dear Editor,

It is with regret I have to inform you that, following over 50 year’s of fundraising, the Porthcawl Branch of KRUF (Kidney Research) has been dissolved.

The Branch has raised many thousands of pounds over the years to support kidney research, kidney patients, equipment needed in Dialysis Units and Wards in Morriston, Llantrisant and Cardiff hospitals. The most recent was a donation of £4,800 towards equipment needed in the Children’s Kidney Unit, and aids for dialysis patients. We now hope that the many organisations and kind townsfolk who have supported us in the past will continue to support Kidney Wales in Cardiff. Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported us at BBQ’s, Walks for Life, Silent Auctions, Coffee Mornings, cake stalls, etc. You have all been wonderful friends.

Jean Schofield BEM

The “community facilities” at Cosy Corner have opened, however someone forgot to build the actual “community facilities”. The retail has been built though, apparently with a record breaking two applicants per unit. Maybe it’s because someone forgot the retail planning consent as rumour has it that only two of them have A3 retail planning consent? Also, how can it be that none of the retail units have toilets? Do we not need public toilets in Porthcawl? Will those units not sell food or drink, or have people working in them? Of course, one way to circumvent such an oversight could be to build free standing public toilets but make one of the lease holders take responsibility for them but who knows? Mind you, at forty pence a visit, those toilets could prove to be a real cash cow for some lucky trader, as long as no one wedges the doors open. Finally, let’s permanently close the road between the junction to the Marina, just passed The Eastern Promenade turn off, as far as Esplanade Avenue on The Esplanade and in doing so create a wonderful civic space for residents and visitors alike to enjoy 365 days a year and not just during The Elvis Festival! When work begins on the £18 million pound redevelopment of The Grand Pavilion… yes £18 million… the road will in all likelihood be closed anyway, so, let’s get into the habit now!

David Norris, Porthcawl

PORTHCAWL AND THE SPANISH CIVIL WAR

Dear Editor,

I was very interested in the article regarding the connection between the owner of The Seabank Hotel in Porthcawl and his assistance in rescuing people from Bilbao during the Civil War.  I believe that a relative of mine might have been on the ship the Kenfig Pool and taken to France.

As a bit of background info, I originate from Dowlais and my maiden name was Arriaga (Basque).  There was a large Spanish community there at one time, now integrated of course.  The Dowlais Iron and Steel works had an affiliation with the Oncanera works in Bilbao and obtained ore from there.  There was a shortage of labour in Dowlais due to the Boer War and there was a strike in the Oncanera - some managers went over to Bilbao to recruit men to work in Dowlais.  I believe about a dozen came at first and then others followed, including my grandmother Brigida to work in her sister’s lodging house and my grandfather Jesus who was lodging there.  They married in Dowlais and had 3 children Jose (my father), Carmen and Patro.  My grandmother’s younger brother Esteban Pena (he was about 12 she was about 16) came over with her, more of him later.

During the Spanish civil war my father’s cousin, Amalia (her mother Carmen Alvarez was my grandmother Brigida’s sister), decided to leave Bilbao.  Apparently at the docks she and her

friend got separated from their parents but managed to get on a ship and were taken to Bordeaux where they ended up in an internment camp. Whilst there they were asked if they had family in the UK, America etc.  By this time my grandmother’s younger brother, Esteban (Uncle Steve to us), had opened a bookshop in London and married Florrie, a Londoner.  He had quite a colourful life, a very clever man, who helped the Government during the war. His grandson has given lots of his info to the Imperial War Museum.  Anyway, Amalia ended up with Uncle Steve and Florrie - she couldn’t speak Spanish and Amalia couldn’t speak English so it was decided she’d be better off in Dowlais with the Spanish community.  My father acted as guarantor for her as she wasn’t allowed to work. She married Adolfo Adeva.  He’d been born in Dowlais of Spanish parents, like my father.  Fluent Spanish speakers, it was, after all, their first language growing up.  I can remember my parents (my mother was Welsh) saying how they went to meet Amalia off the train in Merthyr and had decided to ‘dress down’ as she’d had such a traumatic time.  She got off the train looking like a film star!  She died not many years ago and was a real character.  My sister and I are still in contact with her granddaughter, as we are with a number of the Spanish descendants. We descendants have been involved with a book/short film called The Experiences of Basque and Spanish Ironworkers and their Descendants in Wales from 1900, by Stephen James Murray (he’s involved with Swansea University).  It’s a bit of an academic book, but very interesting (I would say that wouldn’t I).

Hope I haven’t bored/confused you too much, but it does seem to be rather a coincidence.

Pat Fearn (nee Arriaga), Penyfai

PHOTOS OF BRAMPTON

Dear Editor,

You may be interested in the two photo scans attached. 1955 was taken with a Brownie127 - 2023 with my iPhone. In the 1950s a full-time gardener lived in two rooms of the premises. Brampton needs another gardener!

Laurence Owen, Porthcawl

Sudoku

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

Word Search

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

Find names of 20 Outdoor Activities: PARKS - SWIMMING - PAINTING - COMPUTERS - HORSEBACK - BASEBALL - GAMES HIKING - WALKING - MUSEUMS - RIDING - SHOPPING - TENNIS - PETS - SKIING CAMPING - ANIMALS - PICNIC - ARTS - RUNNING

BOOKS

BOOK OF THE MONTH: THE KEEPER OF STORIES BY SALLY PAGE

Cleaner Janice knows that it is in people’s stories that you really get to know them. From recently-widowed Fiona and her son Adam; to opera-singing Geordie; and the awful Mrs ‘YeahYeahYeah’ and her fox terrier, Decius, Janice has a unique insight into the community around her. When Janice starts cleaning for Mrs B - a shrewd and tricksy woman in her nineties - she finally meets someone who wants to hear her story. But Janice is clear: she is the keeper of stories, she doesn’t have a story to tell. At least, not one she can share. Mrs B is no fool and knows there is more to Janice than meets the eye. What is she hiding? After all, doesn’t everyone have a story to tell?

NEW BOOKS AT PORTHCAWL LIBRARY

FICTION

PAYBACK IN DEATH

J D Robb

THE LAND OF LOST THINGS

John Connolly

THE RAGING STORM

Ann Cleeves

BENEATH DARK WATERS

Karen Rose

TASTE OF BLOOD

Lynda La Plante

NORMAL RULES DON’T APPLY

Kate Atkinson

TESTAMENT

Wilbur Smith & Mark Chadbourn

PRIVATE ROME

James Patterson & Adam Hamdy

THE HIDDEN YEAR

Rachel Hore

HAPPINESS

Danielle Steel

KATE BLADON

Facebook: PorthcawlLibrary

HOLLY

Stephen King

WHO SHE WAS

Tony Parsons

DANCE OF SHADOW

Christine Feehan

NON FICTION

JOJO: FINALLY HOME

Johannes Radebe

THE FIGHTER OF AUSCHWITZ : THE INCREDIBLE TRUE STORY OF LEEN SANDERS WHO BOXED TO HELP OTHERS SURVIVE

Erik Brouwer

42 : THE WILDLY IMPROBABLE IDEAS OF DOUGLAS ADAMS

Douglas Adams

POLITICS ON THE EDGE : A MEMOIR FROM WITHIN

Rory Stewart

IMPERIAL ISLAND : A HISTORY OF EMPIRE IN MODERN BRITAIN

Charlotte Riley

Tel: 01656 754845 | 01656 754850

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

PHOTOGRAPHS

GOOD MORNING NEWTON BEACH

SEPTEMBER STORM

SUNSET SURFING

SUNSET AT LALESTON

Jemma Kearn, Porthcawl

Alan Thomas, Bridgend

David McCarthy, Bridgend

AN AERIAL VIEW OF CYMMER

Sandra Beer, Porthcawl

Pat Lathey, Penyfai

A WAKE AT DAWN

Anthony Callaghan, Porthcawl

WELSH

SEAFRONT SUNSET

TWO FRIENDS ENJOYING THE SUNSET

ENDLESS SUMMER

LATE SUN BURNING THE BEACH

Alan Thomas, Bridgend

Trudy van Beek-Peever, Penyfai

Alex Thorne, Porthcawl

Trudy van Beek-Peever, Penyfai

FOLK MUSEUM

Christian Thomas, Porthcawl

PHOTOGRAPHS

SUNSET FROM LOCKS COMMON

EARLY MORNING IN PORTHCAWL

SHADOWS REFLECTIONS

RAINBOW AT NEWTON FEST

THROW MY BALL PLEASE!

Tony Thomas, Pencoed

Marilyn Cook, Bridgend

Natalie Jordan, Porthcawl

Jane Owens, Porthcawl

Anthony Daly, Bridgend

PHOTOGRAPHS

Please remember to give your photographs a caption title and include your name and town you live in.

Kezia Harris, Porthcawl

CONEY BEACH - BY DAY & NIGHT FULMAR

PORTHCAWL CAR SHOW

Gillian Eldridge, Porthcawl

Josh Lia, Porthcawl

Mark Greenslade, Porthcawl

Paul Peters, Bridgend

ARTS

PORTHCAWL MALE CHOIR

PYLE & PORTHCAWL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

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.

Our annual concert this year was a fantastic success. A record attendance of 525 people attended the last concert at the Pavilion before the extensive renovations, which are due to commence early next year and go on for 2 years. As a choir, we are dependent on the loyal support we receive. Again, you’ve done us proud and come out in your droves to see us perform. Porthcawl Male Choir would like to thank everyone who attended.

We must also send out a special thanks to our wonderful ladies section. Their dedication and tireless support is core to our success. Not only do they raise essential funds for the choir, but efficiently manage all the front of house activities at our concerts. Thank you all.

This year saw the Dilwyn Evans award going to Will Evans and Megan Prance. This award, given to students who are going on to pursue performing arts at a higher education, was jointly awarded for the first time to these two. Their performance at the annual concert demonstrated why they were deserved winners. Good luck to you in the future.

Look out for our Christmas concert schedule, which we’ll publish soon, lots happening.

Email: contact@pothcawlmalechoir.co.uk or Ian Williams 07927 219544

Deadline date for the November issue is:

SUNDAY 15TH OCTOBER

PORTHCAWL COMMUNITY CHORUS

(Supported by Sound of Wales)

For all of you who love singing and are not able to go to a choir in the evening, or for those of you who have never sung in a choir before, this is a new opportunity. The choir will meet in the afternoon. Porthcawl Community Chorus is a new mixed choir based in Porthcawl to encourage men and women of all ages to participate. There is no necessity to be a music reader and there will be no auditions or charges: the only requirement is that you love singing.  During the sessions there will be a variety of musical styles.  We will meet on Tuesday afternoons, 1.30-2.45pm followed by a cup of tea. The rehearsals will be held at Gilgal Baptist Church Hall, Park Avenue, with the first session on 3rd October.

Please contact Maggie Jemmett on 07932 793355 or 01656 772813 or maggie.jemmett@live.co.uk if you would like to register, or just turn up on the day.

STAG’S WORLD OF ROCK

After tipping

Porthcawl singer/ songwriter Dill Williams for success after hearing his single, ‘Interstella Boy’, last year, I’m glad to say Dill has signed a record and publishing deal with a London-based label and his debut album, “Terminal Earth”, is released this month. Dill kindly gave me a sneak listen to one track called “Manchester Morning, Coming Home” and, as I anticipated, it is very good. His band, Interstella Boy, will be playing a London gig at Camden’s Dublin Castle on October 29th. The ten-track album is available on all on-line formats. It’s difficult to pigeonhole Dill’s music but think 70s folk icon Nick Drake and a bit of Pink Floyd and you won’t be far away.

Best of luck to Bridgend’s Those Damn Crows on their headline British tour. Finally, a big thanks to Rest Bay’s Mike Smith who noted that in last month’s magazine I should have said the column is written in advance. Cheers, Mike, no doubt that will cost me a pint when I see you! Keep me up to speed with all your music news.

Stag Marks

07549 728356

Photo: Dill signs on the dotted line

A FILM MAKER’S POINT OF VIEW

A large and rather dramatic stone sculpture has been placed near the café at Rest Bay, and although it may not be immediately obvious what it is, it is a commemoration of the S.S. Samtampa and Mumbles lifeboat disaster of April 1947, when all 39 crewmen of the 7,000-ton liberty ship and all 8 lifeboatmen on board the “Edward, Prince of Wales” from Mumbles on the opposite side of Swansea Bay, lost their lives at Sker Point in a ferocious storm.

It was in 1997 that I completed my own memorial to the disaster, in the form of a documentary film called “Dangerous Coast”, a dramatised recreation of what happened on that dreadful April evening, but whereas the film has to be accessed through a media device, the pleasing thing about the Rest Bay sculpture is that it stands boldly and strikingly for everyone to view it, residents and visitors alike, for it draws the attention and captures the imagination. But I would also urge everyone who can do so to take a walk down to Sker Point and reflect on the loss at the place where it happened.

Anthony Hontoir

Downwood Films

Tel: 07510 934299

Photo: The stone sculpture at Rest Bay

POEMS

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Happy birthday Seaside News

Twenty-five this year!

I’ve been with you all the way, You’ve filled me with great cheer. A quarter of a century! How does that make you feel?

All those monthly issues, I bet if seems surreal.

I hope there will be many more. Although it is quite small, It brings a wealth of stories, A little history of Porthcawl.

Many Happy Returns. Judy Dee, Porthcawl

BORN BLIND

Newborn babe, sound in mind, Heart and limb, just blind, Born blind.

No gentle dog to guide his way

Art or skill to help each day,

He’s blind, born blind, blind he will stay.

He’s blind.

God’s curse is on him, men may say.

‘Who sinned? Who sinned,’ he hears each day.

But Jesus comes, he is the Way

To help this man born blind.

With mud and spittle making clay

‘Now go and wash’ he hears him say.

How gladly, gladly he’ll obey.

Now he’s no longer blind!

And men may grumble and complain.

‘Do not believe in Christ’, they say

But he’s seen the rainbow in the rain

And looked on the face of God.

Born blind, born blind is what men say,

But now he knows another way.

Born blind indeed he may have been, Yet born for the glory of God.

Pauline Lewis

I WATCH THE SEA

I watch the sea.

Giant breakers thunder on the sand

And I am energised

I watch the sea

Bright white foam fountains from the rocks

And I am uplifted

I watch the sea

Tiny wavelets creep up the beach

And I am at peace

Katie C, Porthcawl

FORGIVENESS IS MY CHOICE

You did what you did Though Wrong it was

Yet hatred has not seeded into my heart From anger I’m free, Forgiveness is my choice

To heal all wounds, taking a fresh new start

For me hate is another burden to bear In letting it go, I’ll find love again to share Ingrowing hate is poisonous and blackens the day

So smile and mend what is broken, come what may

Though we’re flawed, my dear, both me and you

Let’s try again to build a new bond, forever true

But in understanding, we’ll find a way through To reach for the sky again once we together flew .

So though I am hurt by you I won’t let hate brew, With love and forgiveness, our spirits renew.

Dr Nadeem Iqbal, Bridgend

THIS BODY OF MINE

I’ve reached that momentous time in my life, When my body won’t do what I ask, It’s changing its shape very slowly, And little jobs become major tasks.

I have to carry a tissue at all times, As I now have a dribbly nose, And I mustn’t sit down for too long, For fear I’ll drop off in a doze.

I have to add extra time to my routines, Because my aching joints make me slow, And places take twice as long to get to, The distances seem to grow.

But I’m happy to be in this body of mine, With my drooping boobs and my big belly, My time is my own, I can do what I want, And sit all day in front of the telly.

Marilyn Cook, Bridgend

WHAT LURKS BENEATH

We are lucky local inhabitants

Having the seaside at our door.

A place renowned for summer breaks

Spectacular views and more.

Horses graze in nearby meadow

The Castle ruins stand proud.

Sheep bleating at the roadside

Seagulls squawking clear and loud.

A vast array of feeding birds

Visit these waters frequently.

The view along the estuary

Taking your gaze right out to sea.

Such beauty should be treasured

Sadly some show little care.

This river is a source of life

For generations more to share. The sun shines on these waters

What lurks beneath? Not mud and sand

But pollution on an epic scale

Recklessly dumped by human hand. Trolleys and car tyres by the thousands

There’s no excuse for wanton disregard. These special places must be cherished, Treat them better than ‘Your Own Back Yard.’

Catherine Millard Payne, Bridgend

RUGBY WORLD CUP

Rucks and mauls

Underdogs fighting Gold trophy to be won Brave, bouldering tackles Young names becoming superstars.

William Webb Ellis

Originally of Rugby school

Looking down on the great game, to see Deserving winners, lift the cup.

Calling to all fans, Unsung heroes, voices full of Passion and pride.

Carla Burnell, South Cornelly

A TENBY SUNDOWN (AT TENBY IRONMAN 2023)

Triathlete green, but I have seen, and here I raise a toast;  E - motion’s prayer, where eagles dare, over Wales’s coast. As better men, on “power of ten”, their sharper races run, What can I say? Life in day? Before the setting sun.

With Helios trip, our minds equip, fine wisdom in this tale.  By locomotion, and pure devotion, our warriors set sail. From Tenby’s shore, our dreams explore, upon an ebbing tide. A magic spell, its waters swell and floods our hearts with pride.

No need to ask, another task, as back on shore they land; A tortuous race, spinning at pace, of aching limbs demand. As action spills, up many hills;  could they climb any higher?

Though muscles sore, they can ignore, in their supporters’ choir.

Under blue sky, the chariots fly, to many a glorious bay; Their passionate fire, the crowd inspire on a majestic day. Now mine a seam, within your dream, as cycle becomes run.

Of anthracite, stored for the fight, against a fiery sun. As smelted so, in furnace glow, a “calon lan” so rare. The crowd becomes an iron lung, to give the athletes air. Training now counts, in large amounts, with every building lap. A mantra chant, to Dewi Sant -”Please don’t let me be crap!”

On promenade, Their journey made; as setting sun departs. A special day, now stored away, within their bulging hearts. Their anxious frown, turned upside down as victory replaces; Their many miles, traded for smiles upon supporters’ faces. Love labour’s cost, some will be lost and fall along the way; But far from beat, from this defeat, still heroes in a day. If nerve you keep, as trials heap, making your demons sing, I say to you, through troubles new, “you’ll get through anything”.

Wilfy Edwards, Porthcawl

THE HAUNTED GARDEN

The old garden’s haunted, and few now dare to go, Where the apple trees are planted, all growing in a row. When footsteps patter on the floor, some say “it’s only rain”, And when unseen hands creak the shed’s old door say – “it’s just the wind again”.

I suppose it is the wind that goes rushing through the trees, Then shakes the ripened apples from their place among the leaves.

And the wind lifts the latch of the shed’s wooden door, And sends barren buds of roses into mounds upon the floor. But who when darkling dusk descends, flits between the trees, And sighs with sadness like the waves which wash upon the seas?

Does the wind use a woman’s speech, or take a woman’s form, Or walk the winding pathways until first light of dawn?

The old garden’s haunted, this much I know, That where the apple trees are planted, growing in a row, Someone treads the floor and their tread is not the rain, And wind is not what sighs through the broken windowpane. I’ll pluck the sun ripe fruits from the trees on which they grow, But the old garden’s haunted, and at dusk I dare not go.

Dafydd Matthews, North Cornelly

ANOTHER WORLD

‘Guard this with your life!’ Said the husband to the wife. You’ll need it if I don’t come around from this op. It’s not just my phone

It’s been the sword in my stone And I don’t want your life as you know it to stop. In Notepad you’ll find Everything I’ve left behind. Logins, usernames, passwords and pins to get in to each of our apps and address your knowledge gaps. Now are you ready? Sit tight and let me begin. Start first with banking

It’s me you’ll soon be thanking When you’re gaining access to our money online. Pay, view or transfer one click to administer our savings and monitor your own credit line.

Netflix and sky codes

Internet log-ins and uploads

Of files, clips and photos imported to drop box. Use security to prove your identity allowing the key to my mailbox to unlock. Submit the details of monthly meter readings to keep utility costs under close review Use Amazon Prime Order groceries online

And let Samsung Health record your fitness for you!

My BMW will now permit you to view everything you’ll need to know regarding your car. To be protected

Metatrax is connected

To track and log your movements, wherever you are! Our family tree can be found on Ancestry and every subscription can be renewed on-line. Policies download by scanning QR barcode

So you’ll no longer be asked to ‘print here and sign.’ Shop ‘Be a Winner!’

‘Book a table’ for dinner

Facebook and Twitter, another world to unwrap Taxis from Uber

You’ll soon be a YouTuber

And if you’re ever unsure, just download the app! Everything of mine has been left for you on-line. No paper, just be wary of digital crime!

Now I’m immortal!

My last wills on a portal

My online identity’ll exist throughout time.

‘Look out for your life!’

To the husband said the wife. You’ll need to if you do come around from this op. The pin for your phone

Is the number still unknown

And without it my life as I know it’s on stop.

Verne Farrugia, Porthcawl

Surf life saving is a very diverse sport and can offer something to suit everyone! At Rest Bay we provide high quality surf life saving, swimming, ocean and beach training. If you would like your child to learn important life saving skills, how to be safe in the sea and have lots of fun at the same time with like minded kids, then get in touch.

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

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

Lots of youth members also like to compete in regional, national and international competitions. Our youth section also train to become Lifeguards and carry out voluntary patrols as part of our training programme. Our aim is to provide the lifeguards of tomorrow with training to help keep themselves and others safe whilst enjoying our wonderful beaches.

For more information please contact:

PORTHCAWL RNLI LAUNCH TO YACHT AGROUND

for all eventualities.

‘This call was a great example of teamwork between our volunteer crew and the Coastguard team and thankfully no serious harm came to the casualty onboard the yacht. Following the call our crew arrived back at the station at around 8am, just in time to start their working week having already been involved in the rescue of a casualty from a stricken yacht.’

Chris Page

Porthcawl RNLI’s volunteer crew launched both their inshore lifeboats early in the morning on Monday 21 August to a yacht, which was aground at Llantwit Major Beach.

The yacht had made a distress call to HM Coastguard after it ran aground and was being battered within the surf.

Porthcawl’s volunteer RNLI crew were paged by the Coastguard at 5.48am and were requested to assess the situation and provide safety cover to Llantwit Major Coastguard Team. The charity’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Rose of the Shires was launched on service and made best speed to the location, over 9 nautical miles from Porthcawl. The charity’s relief D class, Peggy D was also requested to launch at 6.09am to provide further assistance due to its ability to operate closer inshore.

When the Atlantic 85 arrived on scene Helm, Chris Missen assessed the situation.

Chris said: ‘The yacht had one casualty aboard along with a Llantwit Major Coastguard Team member who had managed to climb aboard. The yacht was aground in the surf line and was being constantly rolled about by the surf. The waves were around 3ft with larger 4-5ft waves on sets. Once I’d assessed the situation my immediate concern was for the casualty aboard, so I decided to put two crew ashore to assist the Coastguard team in getting the casualty off the yacht and to safety ashore.

‘The Coastguard team member aboard the yacht alerted us to the fact that the casualty had become trapped beneath some loose items in the cockpit, they managed to free the casualty who was then helped to safety by our volunteer crew along with the other Coastguard team members.

‘One of our RNLI crew who had boarded the yacht to help get the casualty off did a quick assessment of the yacht and made an attempt to deploy the yacht’s anchor. Unfortunately they found that the yacht had sustained significant damage during the incident and was taking on water through its hull, which they suspected was due to damage sustained to its bilge keels. The anchor chain was jammed and could not be freed. As soon as the casualty was off the yacht the crew member and Coastguard team member got themselves to safety too as the yacht was still rolling heavily in the surf.

‘The casualty was visibly shaken by the incident but otherwise not seriously harmed and was checked over by paramedics in a waiting ambulance.

‘The D class crew recovered the two RNLI crew members from the shore and both lifeboats were then stood down from the incident and made their way back to the lifeboat station.’

Volunteer Launch Authority, Aileen Jones MBE said: ‘Our volunteer crew were woken early on Monday morning to the sound of their pagers and within minutes went from their beds and were out at sea on the lifeboats. When the pagers sound we never know what the call may be, but the crew are trained

BUS SERVICES TO PORTHCAWL DECIMATED

I AM writing to residents of Porthcawl affected by the latest round of bus cuts.

As work starts on Porthcawl’s £4 million bus station, the town has seen the number of bus services halved. Service 172 Aberdare to Porthcawl has been scrapped every day except Sunday and Service 404 Pontypridd to Porthcawl will now terminate in Bridgend.

Bus services all over Wales are being decimated by the Welsh Labour Government’s decision to reduce the bus subsidies they previously offered with most bus companies  now only providing services they believe will be financially viable. The loss of service 404 affects residents in Nottage and Rest Bay in particular as the bus travelled via their communities. It is a tragic irony that for the first time ever, Porthcawl is getting a bus station with four separate bus bays when only two services remain! Calling it a Metro link is an insult to people’s intelligence especially when my request for a feasibility study into having a tramway or light railway link to the town was ignored.

That would have been a proper Metro link – not a glorified bus station providing the lowest ever number of bus services to residents and visitors.

JAMIE WALLIS

MP for Bridgend

LAND UNLOCKED FOR NEXT PHASE OF REGENERATION

The path has been cleared for the next phase of Bridgend County Borough Council’s ambitious regeneration plans for Porthcawl as the local authority has now acquired the freehold interest on the former Monster Park site.

With Welsh Government holding the leasehold interest for the amusement park, this has unlocked land across the regeneration area and means that the next phase can move ahead.

As a result, you will soon be able to view concept designs showing how public open space throughout the regeneration area could be used for the benefit of residents and visitors alike.

In developing this, we have carried out a great deal of public consultation on how people want the open space to be used, including sessions with residents and local children. The concept designs will reveal how we have tried to incorporate as many of your suggestions as possible, so when the open space proposals are published, expect to see community facilities such as splash pools, climbing walls, pump tracks, adventure playgrounds and more.

You can also expect to see plenty of green open space which people can enjoy. We’ll be revealing the new designs very soon, so keep an eye on Seaside News for more details!

COUNCILLOR JANE GEBBIE

Deputy Leader Bridgend County

Borough Council

01656 643643

Deadline date for the November issue is:

SUNDAY 15TH OCTOBER

FRESH INVESTMENT INTO PORTHCAWL

I was delighted to attend a recent event to officially mark the completion of a £6.4m flood defence scheme for Porthcawl. The work has upgraded the promenade that runs alongside Salt Lake to create a freshly landscaped accessible space with enhanced flood defences running between Porthcawl Marina and Coney Beach.

The project also saw an extensive refurbishment of the iconic Western Breakwater to ensure that the 200-year-old structure can continue to stand up to tough maritime weather conditions. During the upgrade, workers estimate that around 550 tonnes of grout were required.

The improvements extended into Sandy Bay as far as Rhych Point, where flood defences and dune protection works have been upgraded.

The work, which was jointly funded by Welsh Government and Bridgend County Borough Council, was carried out by construction specialists Knights Brown.

On the opposite side of Salt Lake, construction is also underway on a new bus facility as part of the Metro Plus programme. This will improve public transport links to and from Porthcawl and will feature a covered station building, four separate bays, a kiosk and environmental enhancements including a ‘green roof’, a rain garden, outdoor seating and associated highway improvements – look out for more news soon.

COUNCILLOR HUW DAVID

Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council

Tel: 01656 643643

NEW SPEED LIMIT RISKS LIVES

BY THE time this column is printed, the new 20 mph default speed limit will have come into force. Welsh Conservatives made a last ditch but unsuccessful attempt to get this decision rescinded at the Senedd but we were outvoted by Labour and Plaid members.

Let’s get one thing straight. We are not opposed to the creation of 20mph traffic zones outside schools and in other places where children or vulnerable people may be at risk. But a blanket, one-size-fits-all approach is unsuitable. Councils already had the power to bring in 20mph limits where there was a safety issue and such decisions are best left to the people with local knowledge.

This is a typical, top-down approach from Labour which  will cause a hit to the Welsh economy of up to £9 billion – and these are the Welsh Government’s own figures .It will also hit the livelihoods of tradespeople who will be unable to make the same number of calls in a day.

Welsh Government has also admitted that it did not take into account the adverse effect this new limit will have on emergency vehicles rushing to deal with an incident. And that puts all of us at risk.

DR ALTAF HUSSAIN Regional Senedd Member

SUPPORTING LOCAL FAMILIES AND CHILDREN

Bridgend County Borough has benefitted from another successful season of summer activities for children and young people thanks to the ongoing partnership between the local authority and BAVO, Awen, Halo Leisure, the Urdd, Menter Bro Ogwr and town and community councils.

As part of the £114,000 Food Sufficiency grant scheme, 18 local organisations have benefited from funding to support residents through the cost of living crisis.

Food and Fun sessions provided children with healthy meals, activity sessions and lessons on the importance of nutrition, while free Active 4 Life schemes have encouraged healthy and active lifestyles.

Children read at least six library books under the annual reading challenge, and local libraries hosted events ranging from dance classes to lessons in animation.

While Bryngarw Country Park provided family-friendly performances of The Wizard of Oz and Bad Dad, Menter Bro Ogwr and the Urdd hosted activities and events for young Welsh speakers, including summer sports camps.

The free swim initiative targeted children aged 16 and under, and young people aged 11-25 benefited from sessions organised by the Youth Support and Safer Streets programme. Together, these activities have supported local families once again – thank you to everyone who helped make them such a success.

COUNCILLOR NEELO FARR

Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Wellbeing

Tel: 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk

SCHOOLS

NEWTON PRIMARY SCHOOL

Our school has embarked on an exciting topic called “Time Machine,” where our pupils get the opportunity to travel back in time to the 60s and 90s. It has been a truly immersive and engaging experience.

We had the privilege of being joined by a local musical duo who treated us to a captivating performance of 60s songs. The children thoroughly enjoyed the interactive session and had a wonderful time singing along and learning about the music that defined an era.

I would like to share some positive feedback we recently received during our Estyn inspection. The inspectors noted that our school is a caring and inclusive community, where teachers provide an exciting variety of learning experiences. It is a testament to the commitment and dedication of our staff members to create a nurturing environment that encourages every child to thrive.

Furthermore, the inspectors observed that our pupils behave very well and show care and consideration for each other. This reflects the positive and respectful culture we have cultivated within our school community. We are incredibly proud of our children for embodying the values of kindness and empathy. The inspectors also commended the efforts made by all adults in attending to the individual needs and well-being of our pupils. At our school, we believe in the holistic development of each child, and we are committed to providing the necessary support to facilitate their growth and success. Finally, the inspectors recognized the calm, homely, and well-organised learning environment we have created for our youngest pupils. This atmosphere not only positively impacts their well-being and security but also enables them to make good early progress in their learning. We are pleased to see our efforts in creating a nurturing setting pay off in their development and enjoyment of their early years of education. If you are looking for a small, friendly and caring school for you child, please give us a call and we will happy to arrange a visit.

Tel: 01656 815780

PORTHCAWL COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL

Sixth Form Induction Evening and it was lovely to welcome so many new families to the PCS community. We are extremely excited about the recent building works we have completed. We have launched a new Pastoral Hub, created an additional learning area in our Tŷ Enfys provision and launched a new Learning and Development Hub – an innovative, creative space for students and teachers to learn and develop. There will be lots of experiences with iPads, learning spaces, green screens, and white board walls – we cannot wait! In addition, in Powys Block we have redecorated several classrooms, added new ceilings, installed interactive screens and new lighting. All this work continues to ensure our campus provides the best facilities and learning experiences for students. Year 7 and Year 8 are making wonderful progress with ‘The Curriculum for Porthcawl’. You can find out more information about this on our school website.

Mr Stephens Head Teacher

NOTTAGE PRIMARY NEWS

It has been an excellent first half term at PCS with lots of happy, smiling faces as our students started the year with their annual school photographs. We remain delighted with the recent GCSE and A Level attainment of our students, they achieved incredible results which in many areas were the highest in the history of our school. We are immensely proud indeed! We have held our annual Year 7 Information Evening along with our

Our Well-Being Fortnight was a great success, with outdoor learning, games, fun days, music and discussions, helping pupils to settle in to the new term and to get to know their new teachers.

For Roald Dahl Day everyone dressed up, we had quizzes, an assembly, fun activities and shared our favourite books. Our PTA sold Wonka Bars with Golden Ticket prizes! An excellent way to begin our new topic, ‘Scrumdiddlyumptious’.

Rugby, Netball, STEM, Glee, Cross Country, Breakfast and After School Club are back on the agenda keeping our pupils involved outside school curriculum time.

Our Experimenters (Years 1 - 3) thoroughly enjoyed their visit from Puppet Theatre Wales and our Entrepreneurs (Years 4 – 6) worked hard in the workshop from ADA Recycling, educating pupils on how important it is to recycle and save energy. This term, the Entrepreneurs (Years 4 – 6) also visited Ynysawdre Swimming Pool to improve their swimming skills – a skill for life and excellent for wellbeing!

As the colder weather approaches, please visit the Rail of Kindness with nearly new coats and uniform and look out for more bargains in the Big Bocs Bwyd, reducing food waste in the locality!

Amanda Bloomfield

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

NEWYDDION YSGOL Y FERCH O’R SGÊR

Croeso nôl i bawb!

We would like to extend a warm welcome back to our new and existing pupils and staff this September. We are looking forward to the term ahead and have a lot of exciting opportunities planned!

Our Foundation

Phase pupils will be studying “Our World” this term, looking at the classroom, school and local community. Key Stage 2 pupils will focus on “Heroes” in the community, in history and across all walks of life.

We are looking forward to restarting our clubs this term. The Urdd Sports Club is available for pupils in years 3 to 6 on Tuesday afternoons 3:30-4:30pm. Also, Mad Science on Wednesdays for years 1-6 3:30-4:30pm. We will continue to offer lunchtime clubs, such as Spanish, netball and crafts. Details of these may be found on our school website/app. We have already welcomed many visitors this term, including Mad Science, the Dogs Trust and Sbectrwm. We have also had a special school assembly held by Shine.

We are pleased to announce that we are accepting pre-nursery aged children for afternoon sessions at the school from January 2024.

If you would like further details, contact 01656 754865 or admin@yfos.pen-y-bont.cymru

ST CLARE’S SCHOOL

Free eye test voucher

How wonderful to welcome everyone for a brand-new school year, jam-packed with inspiring lessons, exciting extracurricular activities, fixtures and trips!

During the summer holidays, some of our KS4 pupils travelled to BORNEO – so much more than just a ‘school trip’. It was an epic journey. Eye-opening, challenging and truly life-changing. We know high-quality early education provision is essential to your child’s development, so our deliberately smaller classes ensure teachers can give your child the time, individual attention, academic support and stretch to achieve their full potential. Pupils are loving their weekly onsite Forest School. We offer a more traditional education with daily reading, handwriting, Spanish/French, weekly spellings, times tables and regular homework.

Importantly, as an independent school, we have more freedom to adapt and amend the RSE curriculum to suit our needs.

At St Clare’s, we have a bespoke RSE programme, carefully organised by our PSE coordinators, with topics embedded at an age-appropriate level. Topics are reviewed regularly and with sensitivity.

We are proud to be a Day Nurseries UK ‘Top 20’ Nursery for three years running and be in the top 5% of top-performing schools for A-Level performance since 2018. Visit www.stclares-school.co.uk or call 01656-789966 to book your personal tour.

Picture caption: St Clare’s celebrated brilliant A-Level results again

Porthcawl 59 John Street Tel 01656 782 832

KENFIG NATURE RESERVE

2117 (PORTHCAWL & KENFIG HILL) RAF AIR CADETS

Work has started on establishing a new fence across the dunes. This will allow light grazing by cattle and sheep, which is necessary to control the growth of invasive scrub and woodland.

During clearance of vegetation along the fence line, a WW2 anti-tank mortar shell was found, and was disarmed by a bomb disposal team.

The reserve’s varied wildlife is constantly monitored. As well as regular surveys of moths, butterflies and plants, bird ringing is carried out by a team of local experts. Recent findings include migrating birds such as Hobby, Cattle Egret, Tree Pipit and Yellow Wagtail (see photo)

Next month, as part of UK Fungus Day, Chris the warden will be leading walks looking at the many species of fungi to be found on the reserve

Weatherman Walking’s Derek Brockway recently visited the reserve as part of a programme for Children in Need. Plans are in place for the provision of solar panels on the roof of the Visitor Centre. These will greatly reduce the electricity bill for the reserve, and will allow for EV charging points to be installed in the Car Park. This and other improvements are only possible because of the car parking charges.

THROUGH CHRISTIAN EYES

What has happened in our nation to civility and respect?

Morgan Freeman the actor once said: ‘Just because I disagree with you does not mean I hate you. We need to relearn that in our society’. But instead we continue to see the spread of ‘cancel culture’ as our post-Christian society descends into prejudice and intolerance of other peoples’ views or beliefs. Many years ago I heard this quote regarding the radical philosopher Voltaire, ‘I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it’. Such commitment to free speech! Should we allow challenging views to be heard unless they threaten or incite violence?

The social pressure to conform has had a negative effect on UK Christianity.  Preacher, A.W. Tozer, complained, ‘Christianity has been watered down until the solution is so weak that if it were poison it would not hurt anyone, and if it were medicine it could not cure anyone’. In our present day historical, biblical Christian faith faces a real challenge to remain true to the teaching of Jesus.

If you would like to know more about the Christian faith please contact me at Gilgal Baptist Church, Porthcawl.

Rev. Martin Gillard

Throughout the summer we took advantage of the lighter evenings to move activities outside. We ran sports nights, leadership exercises, and practiced drill, which is an essential part the cadet experience. To make things interesting we introduced some continuity drill. This is a drill routine set to music and without commands. So, if you pass the squadron and hear ‘Ghostbusters’, you will know what we are up to. Aircraft were the focus of some parade nights. We tested different paper plane designs to see how this altered performance such as speed and ability to stay aloft. Cadets and staff also constructed and painted a variety of model aircraft from WW2 fighters to modern jets.

Squadron staff attended training, which will allow them to deliver more subjects and a wider experience to cadets. Staff have qualified to teach and assess cadet radio use at the introductory level and are also learning to deliver the cadet space curriculum.

If you are interested in joining as a cadet (age 12+) or as an adult volunteer (age 20+) please contact us on the e-mail below or visit the RAFAC website.

CI Huw Price adj.2117@rafac.mod.gov.uk

MYNYDD Y CYNFFIG WI

We were at our September meeting in our usual venue The Talbot Center Kenfig Hill 2pm to 4pm. This was the first chance we had to meet and discuss our annual outing in august which was to the market in Abergavenny with lunch and then on to Monmouth, the concession was that it was a trip which was enjoyed by all. We discussed WI business which included the Christmas tree festival in December and the Federation Quiz in October. We returned to Mynydd Cynffig business and discussed our scrabble, walking, lunch and book clubs we have a saving club which our members use and a competition which we have for pennies for A.C.W.W.  Which is a charity all WI’s collect for. Christmas is around the corner and we are thinking of ideas that all our members can partake in, do you have any ideas that Mynydd Cynffig WI can use, call in we would love to meet you and you’ll enjoy a cup of tea and a chat and hopefully you’ll  enjoy meeting us as well.

Christine Callaghan

FRIENDS OF MONZE (ZAMBIA)

INNER WHEEL

Many congratulations to our President Mary on the birth of her beautiful new Great Granddaughter, Esme.

We are a Bridgend based charity that has funded the building of 15 rural schools by trained builders supported by local villagers from Monze region.

Around 10 000 children now have access to education at a school equipped with blackboards, desks with chairs, books and qualified teachers.

Unfortunately this brings another problem. As the schools are so rural, roads are very basic and there is no public transport the teachers cannot commute. These qualified teachers need local accommodation but there are no hotels, motels or places for bed and breakfast, as we would expect. Many teachers or unqualified teachers live in a school storeroom sometimes with their families for many months or even years.

Friends of Monze has supported the building of 13 teacher’s houses so far; the picture is in Kachindu village.

We would welcome donations or volunteers to help with sales for fundraising, applying for grants or accounting via Facebook or email deana.owen@friendsofmonze.org

Belinda Green

NEWTON WI

There was no WI gathering in August, so it was good to be back on September 6th. The meeting was well attended and we were very happy to welcome six visitors who hopefully will eventually become new members.

Our evening speaker was Rachel Williams, the title of her talk was ‘’Parisian High Kicks’. She gave us a small insight into her life in Dance, from her upbringing in Aberystwyth to being a member of the Blue Bell Dancers at the Paris Lido, then joining the famous Folies Bergere. An amazing lady and a very entertaining talk.

During the month of August we held our Summer Fayre at Trinity, it was well supported and proved to be a great success.

M Freeman

We had a visit from our District Chairman Brenda last meeting and she told us about the 100 for 100 challenge being given by Inner Wheel to all its clubs. Inner Wheel is 100years old this year and the intention is to raise the profile of Inner Wheel while doing something fun and possibly raising funds for charity in the process, however this is not the main goal. Some ideas for the challenge are, knit 100 squares to make blankets, make 100 cup cakes, have a bric-a-brac stall and sell 100 items or donate 100 items to a food bank. The list is endless. We in Porthcawl have not yet decided what our challenge will be but whatever it is we will do our best to complete it.

Our next club meeting is changing venue to the fairtrade café One/Un in Newton village, where we will be having an Afternoon Tea, so if you think being in the Inner Wheel is something you would enjoy being a part of, please come and join us on 3rd October.

Liz Jones

NEW SAMTAMPA AND EDWARD PRINCE OF WALES MEMORIAL

Beside the brilliant weather there was a noticeable air of excitement as people waited outside the Rest Bay restaurant for Porthcawl Shout Forums (PSF) latest town project to be delivered. A large lorry came into view and stopped just inches from the picnic tables. It carried 5 large pieces of white Portland stone, which would soon become the PSF memorial to the Lost crews of the SS Samtampa and the Mumbles RNLI Lifeboat, Edward Prince of Wales.

Suddenly its powerful overhead crane started to move and the 3-ton base stone was dangling some 5m in the air before being gently lowered onto the prepared plinth. Then the nail biting started as each segment had to fit perfectly into the next and within an hour it was all erected with precision that would have made the Egyptian Pharaohs envious.

Smiles and cameras appeared but the information panels needed are on long delivery. It has taken more than 10 years to get this Porthcawl Heritage project completed and on display and over the years many people have contributed but it would still be in storage had it not been for PSF Chairman, Lindsay Morgan and PSF Treasurer Cllr Jeff Perrin who made it Happen this year.

Gary Victor Porthcawl Shout Forum Tel 783491

PORTHCAWL LIONS

The other Saturday Porthcawl Lions president was honoured to be invited to breakfast  with Roy Noble and the opening of the Porthcawl Flower and Music Festival. She spent a very pleasant morning admiring the beautiful flower arrangements and listening to talented musicians. She would like to thank the Festival committee for their very kind invitation.

At the first September meeting the club was visited by Second Vice-District Governor, Sue Wilding, who was very complimentary especially about the web page, which is always worth a visit (porthcawllions.org) She also presented Porthcawl Guides with a donation from Porthcawl Lions.

The first of the seasonal activities will be a coffee morning on Wednesday 9th. from 10.00 – 12.00 at The Grove Golf Club. Tickets, available from any Lion member, are £8.00 to include coffee and a mince pie. There will also be some musical entertainment and a few craft stalls. Santa has also confirmed that he will be in his Grotto in John St. on five Saturdays during November and December and is looking forward to meeting his young friends. For those active beings there is the Boxing Day Fun Run with a route along the seafront to Rest Bay and back starting and finishing at the HI-Tide. Registration will be £8.00 through Resultsbase.

Of course running these events takes a lot of volunteers. So if you have time to spare and would like to know more about becoming either a member or a friend please contact Pauline 01656 859505.

JMC

PORTHCAWL TOWNSWOMENS GUILD NEWS

On a beautiful sunny afternoon members gathered to hear a gentleman from the Coop Financial Services talk about “later years planning”. Very helpful about wills, inheritance tax, trusts, power of attorney and funeral plans. Useful for our age group!  After a welcome cup of tea the business meeting continued. Thanks we’re given to Dorothy retiring from the committee after 30 years.  Names were taken for a visit to a fashion show at Port Talbot and a lunch.

This months meeting will be on Wednesday October 11th 2.0 p.m. at the Grove Golf Club when Rev Clive Williams makes a welcome return to entertain us with musical history. There will be a collection of food for the Food Bank as it is harvest time.  All welcome just pop along and give us a try you will not be disappointed.

Dorothy Thomas 772157

FEATURES

BRIDGEND QUIZ LEAGUE CUTS TO THE CHASE

PORTHCAWL JOY RIDERS 1ST YEAR ANNIVERSARY SUCCESS

On Monday 4th September, Bridgend Quiz League celebrated their 50th anniversary in the presence of Shaun Wallace, the Dark Destroyer, from ITV’s The Chase. The league, set up in 1973 by schoolteacher Jeff North, has two divisions, a knockout cup, and also once a year welcomes non-league teams from the area who wish to test themselves in the Alan Rudge Memorial Cup. The late Mr Rudge was an original member from the first year, and a competition was set up in his name after his passing. The 50th anniversary quiz, which took place at Tondu Railway Club, was standing room only and half time entertainment was the Dark Destroyer himself, being interviewed by Andy Rudge (son of Alan). The Destroyer regaled the audience with tales of his life as a Chaser and a High Court Barrister, and later was happy to pose for photographs for anyone who asked, and everyone did ask. The quiz was hard fought and the two teams who beat the Destroyer decided the eventual winner, Tondu Railway Club themselves, on a tiebreak. Any teams within the Bridgend area wishing to join the league please check out Bridgendquiz.com

SKER WI

Thursday 14th September, Sker WI members met for the first time following the summer break. We began by singing Jerusalem followed by WI Business. The fashion show by Samantha B, 23rd October, 7pm at St David’s Hall was discussed with volunteer models requested. Friends are invited and tickets are available on the night. With no speaker available this month, Eunice, Cynthia and Wendy entertained us with a variety of comic readings and modern takes on traditional Nursery Rhymes. Eunice gave an informative talk on the origins of ‘Humpty Dumpty’ and ‘Mary had a little lamb’.

We then took part in Handbag Bingo and two quizzes, followed by Eunice reading a letter about a lady planning to go to India and enquiring about WC’s. Her correspondent confused this with Wayside Chapels with hilarious consequences!

Condolences were expressed for a member whose husband had recently died. Julia was welcomed as a new member and we said goodbye to Sheila, as she will soon be moving away. It was a very entertaining evening with many laughs along the way. We ended with singing the Welsh National Anthem. The next meeting will be on October 12th. New members are always welcome.

Pam Powell

Porthcawl JOY-riders are fast approaching the first anniversary of its debut trishaw ride along the fabulous Porthcawl seafront. Successful fundraising by charity members enabled the purchase of our first trishaw Cariad. She has thrilled the elderly and less abled citizens of Porthcawl and the surrounding area with glorious wind swept and often sunny journeys along the seafront.

Since then the charity has been able, through various fundraising and charitable donations, to purchase a second trishaw Lilibet. Both trishaws have been very busy during the summer months giving opportunities for fun filled rides to those whose mobility perhaps prohibits them from accessing the pleasures that the seaside can offer.

Member numbers have increased steadily but we are still looking for additional riders and administrators that can help the charity run successfully and perhaps expand to the wider Bridgend area. (Some of our wonderful volunteer riders and passengers can be seen here in the image)

If you are interested in joining our very worthwhile charity please contact Steve McCreery on 07791 101081 or email Steve at smccreery@hotmail.co.uk

ROTARY IN PORTHCAWL

World Polio Day is on Tuesday 24th October and various activities will be undertaken by Rotary Clubs across the world over the prior weekend to raise both awareness and funds in an effort to eradicate the crippling disease of Polio.

After more than three decades, millions of people have been saved from paralysis by the immunisation programme but we need more help, as the work is not yet complete.

Porthcawl Rotary are organising a ‘Walk a Mile’ on the afternoon of Sunday 22nd October. The walk will start near the RNLI shop, progressing along the promenade and West Drive, up to the junction with Victoria Avenue and back. However, it is up to the individual how far you will actually walk. No roads will need to be crossed during this walk

Everyone is welcome to take part and you could incorporate it as part of your normal Sunday walk. You do not have to return to the starting point.

For information, all donations made to Rotary are matched by the Gates Foundation, which contributes £2 for every £1 we raise.

So please, get your walking boots or trainers on, and join us from 2pm on Sunday 22nd October.

Rtn Jeff Perren

PORTHCAWL U3A

In September

u3a organised a trip to St Fagans National Museum of History for members to enjoy, and also a very successful Study Day around the theme of identifying ways to improve our lives. People attending the day were treated to sessions on exercise in later life; developing SMART objectives to create healthy habits; how to stay safe online and an introduction to a number of online tools that can make our lives easier or more enjoyable. Lunch and chatter contributed to the jovial atmosphere throughout the day. The October timetable for u3a features a range of day time opportunities, including physical activities such as walking, table tennis and dancercise; creative activities such as painting, craft and ceramics or literary groups such drama, discovering literature or the writing groups. People keen to stretch their grey cells can attend the science, Latin or philosophy groups, and anyone enjoying a good game can try their hand at Rummikub, Canasta or Mah Jong and that is just a small proportion of the over 40 groups currently on offer. To find out more about U3A see the website: porthcawlu3a. org.uk

Contact: info@porthcawlu3a.org.uk or phone Gary on 01656 785691.

CLIMATE CLEVER CONVERSATIONS

Is your group planning an Autumn agenda? Sustainable Wales we can offer you some fantastic informative and interactive talks, to get your group thinking about our environment and the impact we have on it!

If you fancy getting out and about, we can host you in our Green Room, above SUSSED, James Street, Porthcawl with free fairly-traded tea and coffee with a chance to browse around the shop.

Take a look below at the topics we have on offer! A donation to the charity would be welcome. Book your talk in now, for something to look forward to in Autumn!

· Responding to Climate Change - simple explanation of climate change, how human life is changing our planet and what we can do.

· Greening your Organisation - simple and effective changes to make your organisation fairer for the people and the planet.

· ‘Power of the Purse’ - the importance of how and where you shop.

· Sustainability - how we can live better for our planet and the future generations.

· Community Co-Production and Porthcawl Regeneration.

· Planning and organising an eco or fairtrade event. Contact our Local Sustainable Development Officer ella. williamson@sustainablewales.org.uk

TABERNACL OPEN DAY

Braf oedd croesawu cymaint o bobl i’n diwrnod agored ar yr 2il o Fedi. Mwynhaodd pawb y gweithgareddau oedd ar gael yn y capel, gan gynnwys helfa drysor, helfa sborion a ffilm fer. Yn y neuadd, yn ogystal â’r lluniaeth rhagorol, roedd gemau a hwyl i bawb. Hefyd, roedd nifer o arddangosfeydd yn dangos gweithgareddau’r capel, Merched Y Wawr, Cymdeithas Cymry Porthcawl a’r holl grwpïau lleol i ddysgwyr. Diolch i bawb oedd wedi cyfrannu at lwyddiant y dydd!

It was wonderful to welcome so many to Tabernacl for our Open Day on 2nd September.

Visitors young and old – from as far away as Neath and Swansea, to our neighbours here in Fenton Place – all enjoyed the opportunity to discover the chapel, its work and activities, as well as sampling a homemade Welsh cake or two! Inside the chapel, a treasure hunt, scavenger hunt and short film helped visitors to learn about the history of the building and community who worship here.

Exhibitions in the hall highlighted both chapel activities (worship, Bible study, walks, Christmas panto, Sundae Sundays…) as well as the Porthcawl Welsh Society, Merched Y Wawr and the many local groups for Welsh learners. Our monthly Bore Coffi group of Welsh learners joined us, and much fun was had playing scrabble yn gymraeg. Organised as part of the Cadw Open Doors festival, we’d like to thank everyone who helped to make the day such a success. To find out more about Tabernacl, please visit: www.GlannauOgwr.Cymru

David Robinson

PORTHCAWL TOWNSWOMENS GUILD NEWS

We did not have our usual guild meeting last month but instead enjoyed an afternoon tea at the Grove Golf Club - and who doesn’t enjoy an afternoon tea! We welcomed Ceri Joseph and Rev Clive Williams as guests - being two of our most popular speakers.

Our meeting this month is on Wednesday September 13th at the Grove Golf Club 2.0 p.m. when we will have a speaker from the co-op on “Finances”. At this time that is an important topic as we all try to make our money go that bit further! So do come along and see if she will be able to help us!

We have a full programme of speakers for the next seven months - something to interest everyone so try us out, you will not be disappointed!

Dorothy Thomas 772157

THE GOLDEN AGE OF HOLLYWOOD: FEMALE PIONEERS

Women gave birth to Hollywood. During the silent movie era, women virtually controlled the industry. For example, female screenwriters outnumbered male ten to one. The mothers of creativity included writers, directors, producers and, of course, actresses.

Lois Weber was the first woman to write, direct, produce and star in a movie. She is regarded as one of the most important and prolific film directors of the silent movie era directing 135 films, writing 114, and acting in 100. Many of Lois’ films focused on her concerns for humanity and social justice, subjects that always trouble the establishment. Along with her moral stance, Lois’ antenna was finely tuned to the commercial aspects of filmmaking, so much so that by 1920 her movies topped the highest grossing charts. One of Lois Weber’s most notable films, Hypocrites, 1915, featured the first full-frontal female nude scene. The British Board of Film Censors passed the film. However, the movie caused riots in New York, was banned in Ohio, while the mayor of Boston demanded that the film’s negatives should be painted over to clothe the naked woman.

Hannah Howe, author of Tula and Sunshine, novels set during the Golden Age of Hollywood. https://hannah-howe.com

HITLER’S GREATEST GENERAL

Porthcawl Museum’s Prisoner of War Room contains two panels from Island Farm P.O.W. Camp, Bridgend, which were designed by German generals. You’ll be amazed to find that Erich von Manstein ‘Hitler’s Greatest General’ was one of those prisoners.

His remarkable reputation stemmed from groundbreaking military strategies, notably ‘The Sickle Cut Plan’ and the ‘Blitzkrieg.’ During WWII, the Sickle Cut Plan featured prominently on the Eastern Front, where a sickle-shaped formation encircled and weakened enemy defences, exemplified during the Battle of Stalingrad, 1942 to 1943.

Yet, it was the Blitzkrieg that etched Manstein’s legacy. This lightning-fast tactic involved swift, surprise attacks utilizing tanks, infantry, and air support to shock and overwhelm adversaries with speed. It proved devastatingly effective in the war’s early stages, leading to victories in Poland, France, and Yugoslavia.

In 1945, British forces captured von Manstein. While awaiting trials for Nazi war crimes at Nuremberg, Manstein found himself at Island Farm, known as Special Camp 11, in Bridgend. Manstein’s 1949 trial, featuring seventeen war crime charges, culminated in a British military court’s guilty verdict and an eighteen-year prison sentence. However, by 1953, his sentence was commuted due to health concerns, leading to his release. He lived in Germany until his passing in 1973.

Sara Male

PORTHCAWL MUSEUM

On the 9th September the volunteers of the museum entertained an audience of visitors at its Evacuee Experience day. Activities and exhibitions on the day included Dig for Victory Garden, Anderson Shelter ,Taste WW2 food, WW2 memorabilia, RAF Battle of Britain command centre, WW2 music and singing and Evacuees story telling.

David Swidenbank Vice Chairman

COST OF CANCER

Autumn is here, don’t forget you can get Our 3 Peaks Challenge is open and available to book onto now. Go to our website www.costofcancer.org.uk where you’ll be able to read all about it then you can click the link for Global Adventure Challenges who are the event organisers. This is going to be a challenge which will test your limits of fitness and also your mental ability as these types of challenges are not just about physical ability. You’ll have to put the training in as it’s a tough one. This one is done in under 24 hours so it’s not for the fainthearted, but we have every faith in you.

We have lots planned in 2024 so please do watch this space. We look forward to seeing all your registrations for the 3 Peaks Challenge..

Nicky, Emma & Cath Trustees

CHEERS

What have you read or seen today that you think may improve your life? Is it a new electronic gadget, clothes, something to make your life easier, improving your health, changing your diet, exercising, the list goes on…..

When did all this start? Was there ever a time when there was no list to improve and achieve? Who started it? You, family, school, newspapers, TV, cinema, advertising, friends and partners.

Pause for a moment and imagine being a young child once again, maybe five or six years old and what would have made you happy, a teddy bear, being bigger to play outside, an ice lolly on a summer’s day such simple needs. Yet once they were fulfilled and appreciating how lucky we were to have received these gifts we just grew a longer list of bigger and better things to make us happy. Then once we achieved the latest acquisition happiness did not arrive instead it seemed further away than ever.

Where is this happiness? It’s been with you all along waiting for you to notice it. How can you find it? Maybe today remember all that you have to be thankful for.

Just before you go to sleep maybe appreciate your clean comfortable bed and on waking your morning cuppa. Remember, be gentle on yourself.

Margaret Brown

A TO Z OF VITAMINS AND MINERALS

Vitamins and minerals are essential nutrients. You don’t need much, just milligrams to micrograms a day, but if you don’t get enough or the right kinds of vitamins and minerals, essential functions in the body cannot happen. The difference between vitamins and minerals has to do with their chemical structure. Vitamins can be broken down, but minerals are inorganic and cannot be broken into smaller chemical units. Vitamins are essential, meaning we have to get them from our diet (or supplements). Some, but not all, minerals are essential. Vitamins can also be classified as fat-soluble or water-soluble. Water-soluble vitamins are only in the body for a short time before excesses are excreted in the urine and sweat. Fat-soluble vitamins can be stored in fat tissue, so they can accumulate over time. Minerals can be classified as macro minerals, which are also called electrolytes, or trace minerals.

Vitamin A is a nutrient that plays several important roles in the body.

Some of its key functions include:

Supporting the immune system

Vitamin A helps your body’s natural defense against illness and infection.

Promoting vision in dim light

It is essential for maintaining good eyesight, especially in lowlight conditions.

Maintaining healthy skin and mucous membranes

Vitamin A helps keep your skin and the lining of some parts of the body, such as the nose, healthy.

Supporting growth and development

It is crucial for normal growth and development during fetal development and childhood.

Playing a role in reproduction

Vitamin A is involved in the production of certain hormones and plays a role in reproductive health.

Good sources of vitamin A include cheese, eggs, oily fish, fortified low-fat spreads, milk and yogurt, liver and liver products. You can also get vitamin A by including good sources of beta-carotene in your diet, as the body can convert this into retinol.

It’s important to note that while vitamin A is essential for your health, taking too much vitamin A over many years may affect your bones, making them more likely to fracture when you’re older. If you’re pregnant or thinking about having a baby, it’s advisable to avoid eating liver or liver products and taking supplements that contain vitamin A, as large amounts can harm your unborn baby.

Please consult your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalized advice on meeting your vitamin A needs.

Taken from the NHS UK website by Glyn Hardwicke

LOCAL ONE STOP HEALTH SHOP

For all your nutrition and health needs, visit your local onestop health shop, Peak Supps! With over 450 products from vitamins, supplements, superfoods, herbs, workout accessories, and so much more, visit peaksupps.co.uk or come say hello at Unit 19 Ogmore Crescent, Bridgend Industrial Estate, CF31 3TE.

SO WHAT EXACTLY IS ‘CONSUMER DUTY’?

In one of the most fundamental changes across the whole of Financial Services for years, the 31st of July saw the introduction of the ‘Consumer Duty’ by the regulator the Financial Conduct Authority, which sets out a brand new set of protection rules for the Client and the need for all companies, banks and Advisers to adopt and prove completely diligent treatment and outcomes for customers.

Whilst this has necessitated a raft of changes whereby everything has to be documented to demonstrate that all the obligations have been met, it is possible that the majority of the public will not have even heard about it. When we meet our Clients now, you can be sure that we will go through this with you to ensure that only the very best outcome for you takes place and we’ll show you how it applies to you.

As I write this, inflation has suddenly surprised everyone by having come down unexpectedly to 6.7% and it is possible that the Bank of England may be coming to the end of raising the interest rate, which would bring massive relief to hard-pressed household budgets, especially with the news that the cost of rises in food prices seems to be abating, although maybe not so evident on certain items.

Whichever way you look at it, keeping your outgoings within a sensible, often strict budget is crucial and your whole-ofmarket mortgage / lending Adviser can help you access the very best deals that are available across the UK to keep your borrowing costs lower. There is no way that an individual could begin to sift through all the data for over four thousand plus mortgage deals and we have the benefit of being able to do this for you via our specialised sourcing systems.

You need your independent Adviser now more than ever before and we’ll happily show you the facts and figures of what’s available to best suit your needs, not just give you any old scheme just to get a result. Also, don’t be railroaded into seeing the mortgage arranger at an estate agent’s office as (a) it is illegal to force you to do so and (b) very often they work off a restricted panel with perhaps only around 30 lenders available as opposed to what an independent whole-of-market Adviser offers.

For those needing to move in retirement (for mobility issues perhaps) to a level floor property, we can often assist in helping you raise any shortfall in finance to make that happen. Don’t fret that you may not be able to move before you speak with us first. 01656 782545 / 07768 418308 are the numbers you need.

PAUL FIELDING

Dragon Financial

Call 01656 782545 / 07768 418308

TOP FIVE EQUITY RELEASE MYTHS DEBUNKED

Record numbers of homeowners who are over 55 are now turning to equity release to unlock tax-free cash from their property. From our many years of experience, we have noticed some common misconceptions raised by clients surrounding equity release and this short article debunks the top 5 equity release myths.

Myth one: I’ll end up owing more than my home is worth

Provided you take out an equity-release plan with a provider approved by the Equity Release Council, your plan will come with a no–negative-equity guarantee, which ensures you will never owe more than the value of your property when it is sold.

Myth two: I’ll no longer own my property

Equity release doesn’t mean selling your home to the lender. You are simply borrowing against it and so you will remain the owner. Unlike a conventional mortgage, equity release via a lifetime mortgage has no fixed end date, so the mortgage lasts for as long as you need it to.

Myth three: I can’t release equity from my home because I’ve still got a mortgage on it

Having an existing mortgage doesn’t mean you can’t release any equity. In fact, using equity in your home to clear an existing mortgage is one of the most popular uses of equity release.

Myth four: I’ll have to make monthly repayments with a lifetime mortgage

You have two options on how the interest is paid. You can either pay the interest off each month to keep the loan the same throughout the term or decide to make no monthly payments and let the interest roll up.

Myth five: There won’t be any equity left to leave to my loved ones

Lifetime mortgages have become increasingly versatile in recent years, especially with the introduction of Inheritance Protection, which allows you to protect a specific portion of the equity in your home to guarantee loved ones an inheritance. Lifetime mortgages can also be a useful tool in mitigating potential inheritance tax issues.

It is essential that you seek professional advice to find the best option to suit your needs, which is where we can help. If you are considering equity release give Abacus Assurance Financial Services Ltd a call on 01656 772222 and book your free 1 hr consultation.

Abacus Assurance Financial Services Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the financial Conduct Authority. A lifetime mortgage is secured against your home.

JEREMY POOR DipPFS Cert CII (MP & ER)

Financial Advisor at Abacus Assurance

Call 01656 772222

PROTECTING YOUR BUSINESS WITH A BUSINESS LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY - BUSINESS AND COMMERCIAL LPA

Sleepless nights and stress are an inevitable part of running a business, and

whilst you can’t control everything, there is one area where some forward planning can help to put your mind at rest - having a Business Lasting Power of Attorney.

Have you ever thought what would happen to your business if incapacity makes you unavailable? A Business Lasting Power of Attorney (“BLPA”) is a critical component of any business crisis management strategy and risk management policy.

A BPLA allows you, as the operator of a business, to legally appoint one or more attorneys to make decisions and act in relation to your business affairs if you are unavailable or, critically, if you suffer illness or accident which removes your mental capacity to make these decisions yourself. These documents should be considered separately to arrangements you should have in place to manage your personal finances in a similar situation. The skills and attributes required of a business attorney are likely to be entirely different from those required of an attorney looking after your personal financial affairs.

Depending on your trading status, the risks may extend to your business partners or co directors. It may even be the case that, where you are operating business accounts jointly with others, those accounts will be frozen by financial institutions. Ultimately the situation could lead to a risk of business failure or winding up.

At Redkite, we can offer a tailored BLPA which will bring peace of mind to you and your fellow business associates, so please contact us to arrange an appointment if you think that this will be of benefit to you.

GARDENING

CEFN CRIBWR GARDENING CLUB

in for the practice nights and we hope to have a good crowd to give our national demonstrator a warm Porthcawl welcome. We thoroughly enjoyed making the arrangements for the recent Porthcawl Music and Flower Festival and thank all readers who supported this event. There are still some places for our Area day trip to Brecon on November 1st. Please let me know if you are interested. There will also be another Practice night in November and our highlight of the year which is our Christmas Open Evening in the pavilion on 22nd with Elizabeth Gordon.

Alison Thomas.

Club Secretary (07581 048448)

October is crisp days and cool nights, time to curl up by the fire with a good book! (a gardening one of course!)

It’s the start of the leaf falling season, they are fine left on the borders, but beware on paths and patios they’re lethal, they are very slippery especially in the wet ( a gardener with a broken arm is about as much use as a chocolate fireguard!)

Wipe clean the glass on your greenhouse or polythene on poly tunnels, to increase the light reaching plants. It makes a huge difference. In dull winter months plants go all tall and spindly in their desperation to reach the light. Bless them!

Summer bedding has just about had it now. Pull them up and add to the compost heap, mulch the bare soil with compost for the worms to drag down to improve it, ready for you to start all over again next Spring!

I expect you’ve guessed the Rose is Britain’s favourite flower with 37% of the vote, Sweet Pea was second with 29% but the poor old Hydrangea came second to last just in front of the Dandelion! What a shame they are beautiful!

Chris Early

PORTHCAWL FLORAL ARRANGEMENT SOCIETY

We are all looking forward to returning to another fun filled year after our long summer break. Our first meeting and enrolment night is only a week away at the time of writing. In September

we have a taster session where we will be making a simple posy arrangement on enrolment night. We have a Practice evening on 27th titled “flowers in the traditional style”. On October 11th we are looking forward to our first demonstration which will be by Ruth Milton-Jones. There will be another practice evening on 25th October when we will be making an Autumn arrangement.  All members and visitors are encouraged to join

Deadline date for the November issue is:

SUNDAY 15TH OCTOBER

LALESTON GARDENING CLUB

After those ridiculous temperatures of September, we hope for some fine and perhaps more in keeping weather for October.  If you fancy a lovely day out, watch the website of Westonbirt Arboretum for the best times

to visit for maximum Autumn Colour, especially the Acer glade which is breathtaking.  At home in our gardens, now is the time to plant spring cabbages, to remove those bedding Annuals and prepare to plant the spring daffodils and other bulbs for the next year’s wonderful display.  Lawns can be scarified to remove thatch and apply an Autumn weed & feed.  I will be ordering my Strulch from our Garden Club Shop to spread a thick layer around my perennial borders, it is a good mulch to protect from winter weather and adds nutrients too.  Greenhouses should be cleaned and readied to protect those cuttings and plants to get them through winter.  After the first frost prepare dahlia tubers to store.   I store mine on scrunched up newspaper in a seed tray with a sprinkle of flowers of sulphur, but dry compost works too.

Our lectures begin on 9th October, first off is ‘Production of year round chrysanthemums’ at 7.30pm. Our AGM is on 6th Oct7.30pm and MacMillan coffee morning on the 7th at 10am. All welcome.

Susan Ford

What’s on

PORTHCAWL U3A

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

PORTHCAWL LADIES BOWLS

CLUB

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

PRINCE OF WALES

BOWLING CLUB

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

MONDAY

A TASTE OF YOGA, KENFIG

10.30-12pm & 6.30-8pm @ Kenfig

Nature Reserve. Cost: Four Sessions £28. To book contact Angela 07980 936198 or Email: angelarock11@ hotmail.com

KENFIG HILL & DISTRICT MALE

VOICE CHOIR

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

ROTARY PORTHCAWL

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

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

TUESDAY

INNER WHEEL PORTHCAWL

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

PORTHCAWL COMMUNITY CHORUS

A day-time mixed choir covering a variety of styles. 1.30-3.00pm at Gilgal Baptist Church Hall. No auditions and no need to read music. Just come along if you enjoy singing. Contact: Maggie Jemmett on 07932 793355 or maggie.jemmett@live. co.uk

PORTHCAWL LIONS

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

Or call: 01656 784939.

PORTHCAWL MALE CHOIR

New members welcome. Rehersals

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

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

YOGA WITH MICHELE

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

WEDNESDAY

BREATHING SPACE CREATIVE GROUP

Find new skills and grow confidence at FREE creative arts sessions for adults. Wednesday 12.30-2.30pm in Awel-y-Mor Community Centre, Hwtchwns Terrace CF36 5TN. Helping to support wellbeing, positive mental health and reduce isolation. Run by arts charity Tanioto book contact helo@taniocymru. com 01656 729246.

BRIDGEND SOROPTOMISTS

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

COR BRO OGWR, BRIDGEND

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

A day-time mixed choir covering a variety of styles. 1.30-3.00pm at Gilgal Baptist Church Hall. No auditions and no need to read music. Just come along if you enjoy singing. Contact: Maggie Jemmett on 07932 793355 or maggie.jemmett@live. co.uk

PORTHCAWL FLORAL ARRANGEMENT SOCIETY

Fancy creating exciting floral displays? Join our friendly group at Awel Y More Centre, Hutchwns Terrace, Porthcawl, CF365TN. We meet on 2nd /4th Wednesdays at 7.30pm. Beginners and visitors welcome. We have tuition, demonstrations and social events. See our Facebook page or call Alison on 07581 048448.

PORTHCAWL STROKE CLUB

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

PORTHCAWL TRIATHLON CLUB

Weekly coached run sessions at 6.30pm. Come along for a taster session. Check meeting location. Search Facebook or www. porthcawltriathlonclub.com All abilities and new members welcome.

SLIMMING WORLD, PORTHCAWL

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

SLIMMING WORLD WITH MOLLY

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

THURSDAY

BRIDGEND MALE CHOIR

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

PYLE & PORTHCAWL

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

levels. www.pyle-and-porthcawlphotographic-society.co.uk

SKER WI

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

SLIMMING WORLD, KENFIG HILL

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

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

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

SATURDAY

LALESTON GARDENING CLUB

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

PORTHCAWL VETERANS HUB

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

PYLE & KENFIG HILL VETERANS ASSOCIATION

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

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

SUNDAY

PORTHCAWL COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA

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

Surf life saving is a very diverse sport and can offer something to suit everyone! At Rest Bay we provide high quality surf life saving, swimming, ocean and beach training. If you would like your child to learn important life saving skills, how to be safe in the sea and have lots of fun at the same time with like minded kids, then get in touch.

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

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

Lots of youth members also like to compete in regional, national and international competitions. Our youth section also train to become Lifeguards and carry out voluntary patrols as part of our training programme. Our aim is to provide the lifeguards of tomorrow with training to help keep themselves and others safe whilst enjoying our wonderful beaches.

For more information please contact:

At Braceys, from small bathroom ideas to family bathroom essentials, we have everything you need to achieve your dream bathroom!

KAG GLASS SPLASHBACKS