SEASIDE NEWS: October 2022 issue

Jonathan Runnalls

& REPORTS

WHERE WE DELIVER

Door-to-door delivery to 99% of homes in the following areas: Porthcawl, South Cornelly, North Cornelly, Kenfig, Maudlam, Pyle, Kenfig Hill, Cefn Cribwr, Penyfai & Laleston.

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

PICK UP A COPY

Available to pick up from the following places: Porthcawl Library, Nottage Stores, Rest Bay Cafe Bar, Beale’s Fish & Chips, Bargain Booze Newton, Grove Golf Club, Kenfig Nature Reserve, Pyle Garden Centre, The Great House Laleston, One Stop Bryntirion, Phil’s Cafe Bridgend Industrial Estate, Pendre Post Office/ Newsagents, Cefn Glas Fish Bar, Nat West Bank Bridgend, POW Hospital Bridgend, Halo Bridgend, Coity Post Office.

COST OF LIVING CRISIS

Dear Editor,

There is a cost-of-living crisis in the UK resulting in unprecedented pressures on people already in poverty, and this winter despite the support given by Government, thousands of people in Porthcawl and the Borough of Bridgend will be forced to make tough decisions about when and what they eat, what they can do in life, and when they can afford to heat their home.

Porthcawl Community Support wants to do more to help its residents, delivering our ambitions to ensure:

- We put people and families at the heart of everything we do,

- Tackle inequality so people have a fair chance,

- Support our communities to support themselves and each other,

- Work together and fight for a better future for Porthcawl.

In doing so, we wish to work with Bridgend County Borough Council, Porthcawl Town Council and all other agencies and voluntary groups working as a coherent group, building on the great work done during the pandemic, to create a network of facilities and assistance.

Our intention is to create a directory of all the groups and places available to our residents across the public, private, health and voluntary sectors so that anyone who is cold knows where they can go to get advice and support or to stay warm and enjoy a little company and some hot refreshments.

If you need help or can help please contact us on http://www.porthcawlcs.weebly.com

Kerry Marlow, Porthcawl

PORTHCAWL TO PARIS CHARITY BIKE RIDE

Dear Editor,

My son Daniel Burt and a group of his friends set out from Porthcawl sea front on 13th September to cycle to Paris raising funds for cancer research. They successfully arrived in Paris on Saturday 17th September. All of them have been touched by cancer with either family or friends.

In Daniels case losing his Mom

Caroline Burt nee Bryce a Porthcawl girl at the age of 56.Apart from being proud of his and their achievements raising over £4,000 to date I’m sure your readers have also known someone who has been touched by this cruel disease. You can look on the website the bike network and specifically the Lycra lads to see the participants and if you wish donate.

Well done boys. Proud of you all.

Mal Burt, Porthcawl

Have your say info@seasidenews.co.uk

RESPONSE TO CONEY BEACH CARNAGE

Dear Editor, I read with interest the letter in last month’s Seaside News regarding the environmental pollution at Coney Beach (Sandy Bay), including the donkey muck, which is often left on the beach (see attached photos).

I’ve presented a series of relatively low-cost and pro-active initiatives to BCBC and the beach owners, including providing grabbers/bags in containers at the steps to the beach, accompanied by signage. We’ve had many conversations recently with beach users who’ve said they’d do a litter pick while walking the dog, for example, but a lack of grabbers or bags prevents this.

BCBC have stated that as the beach is largely privately owned, most of it doesn’t come under their remit; they’re responsible for providing/emptying the bins at the end of Mackworth Road, which they do on a regular basis. However, the actions of others have short- and long-term detrimental consequences for tourism and the local economy of Porthcawl, which ought to be a wider concern to the Council. Also, the beach-owners have yet to respond constructively to the above initiatives, despite contacting them about it several months ago.

I’d like to encourage readers to contact Coney Beach Pleasure Park, who are responsible for the majority of the beach, to ask how they intend to help tackle the ongoing environmental issues at Coney Beach, by emailing: info@coneybeach.co.uk Also, to contact BCBC at: cleanupthecounty@bridgend.gov. uk to ask how they can help us to reduce pollution and avoid damaging the reputation of Porthcawl, and the wider Bridgend County, and for tourism. If anyone is interested in doing a litter pick, please see more information here: https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/ porthcawlcleanup/ Mark Worrall, Porthcawl

PROTEST AGAINST POLLUTION

Dear Editor, Over 100 people came to show their support at Newton Beach recently, to protest against the recent sewage pollution in Porthcawl. How is this pollution allowed to happen? Thank you to everyone that turned up. Ema-louise Lewis, Porthcawl

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BOOKS

NEW BOOKS AT PORTHCAWL LIBRARY

FICTION

DARK ROOMS

Lynda La Plante

THE EXQUISITE ART OF GETTING EVEN Alexander McCall Smith

THE WINTER ROSE

Katie Flynn 1989 Val McDermid

THE PUDDING LANE PLOT

Susanna Gregory

MY OTHER HUSBAND Dorothy Koomson

THE RISING TIDE

Ann Cleeves

THE INK BLACK HEART

Robert Galbraith

ACT OF OBLIVION

Robert Harris

TITANS OF WAR Wilbur Smith

DESPERATION IN DEATH JD Robb

FAIRY TALE

Stephen King

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL

Jack Sheffield

THE RED NOTEBOOK Michel Bussi

BLOWBACK

James Patterson & Brendan Dubois

NON FICTION

THE SIMPLE ART OF MURDER

Raymond Chandler

FOREVER YOUNG: A MEMOIR Hayley Mills

AGATHA CHRISTIE: A VERY ELUSIVE WOMAN Lucy Worsley

A DIFFERENT STAGE

Gary Barlow

ONE: SIMPLE ONE-PAN WONDERS

Jamie Oliver

THE BOOK OF THE MONTH JOAN, by Katherine J. Chen

France is mired in a losing war against England. Its people are starving. Its king is in hiding. Yet out of the chaos, an unlikely heroine emerges. With unforgettably vivid characters and propulsive storytelling, JOAN is a thrilling epic, a triumph of historical fiction, and a feminist celebration of one remarkable –and remarkably real – woman who left an indelible mark on history.

CUPPA WITH A COPPER

‘Cuppa with a Copper’ is returning to Porthcawl Library. Come along on the following dates to voice your queries and concerns in an informal and friendly space.

Thursday 6th October 2-3pm

Friday 28th October 2-3pm

Friday 11th November 2-3pm

Friday 25th November 2-3pm

KATE BLADON

Facebook: PorthcawlLibrary | PyleLibrary Porthcawl Library Tel: 01656 754845 | 01656 754850 Email: porthcawl.library@awen-wales.com pyle.library@awen-wales.com

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PHOTOGRAPHS

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BETWEEN THE SHOWERS

CART BEFORE THE HORSE

Stephanie Power, Porthcawl

Anthony Callaghan, Porthcawl

Evan Lewis, North Cornelly

CROCODILE ROCK, REST BAY

NOSTALGIC BLOSSOM

KAYAKING AT SUNSET

Kate Gregory, Cefn Cribwr

Dave Holdham Photography OGMORE CASTLE

John Rees, Bridgend

SUNSET OVER REST BAY

SWEET

CROOKED - KENFIG BEACH

REST BAY SUNSET

Kerry Wilce, Porthcawl

Kimberley Roberts, Porthcawl

Alan Thomas, Bridgend

Anne Humphries, Brackla, Bridgend

Tony Thomas, Pencoed

PHOTOGRAPHS

FIELD OF RAPE AT CORNTOWN

Email

MOON OVER THE LIGHT

GLORIOUS SUNSET AT REST BAY

THE MOON

FLYING HOME

Pat Lathey, Penyfai

Ray Lewis, Broadlands

Sandra Beer, Porthcawl

TRECCO POINT SUNSET

Jeff Barnes, Porthcawl

Scott Wakelin, Porthcawl

Billy Murton, North Cornelly

ARTS

BRIDGEND MALE CHOIR

The Choir had a wonderful time singing at the Porthcawl Elvis Festival last week where they received a fantastic welcome by all the Elvies and the general public there.

We now turn our focus to our Annual Concert being held at the Tabernacle Chapel, Bridgend on Friday October 14th, which will feature Soloist Erin Gwyn Rossington, (the winner of the choir’s Diamond Bursary Competition), Tomos Xerri, internationally acclaimed Welsh harpist and Jeffrey Howard, organ virtuoso. Tickets are now on sale at £12.50 from our secretary Dave Deeley, 07996 616120; Mike Johnson 07938 949194 or via the contact page of our website https://www.bridgendmalechoir.co.uk

We embark on a 3-day choir tour to Newquay in Cornwall as the guests of Newquay Male Voice Choir followed quickly by an outdoor performance at McArthur Glen. We have a number of social events planned over the next couple of months including our annual ‘Oktoberfest’ and the Choir Christmas Ball.

A very warm welcome is always extended to new members 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 or Contact our Secretary: Email Address contact@bridgendmalechoir.co.uk Telephone +44 (0) 7799 616120

A FILM MAKER’S POINT OF VIEW

SOUNDS FAMILIAR

Porthcawl choir, Sounds familiar are working hard for their first major concert since lockdown. They will be performing at the newly refurbished Gilgal Church, Porthcawl on Saturday November 12th at 7pm.

You’ll see many familiar faces in the choir, but perhaps less familiar will be their new Musical Director, Nick Wayland-Evans and accompanist Laura Deenik. Nick is a founder member of Only Men Aloud and sang with them for over ten years; Laura is an experienced musician and has accompanied many choirs and soloists.

Joining Sounds Familiar in the concert is Noteworthy ensemble from Maesteg, and soprano Jessica Robinson; Jessica has performed at the Royal Albert Hall and Buckingham Palace, and will be in the final of the Welsh Singer competition, hoping to represent Wales in the next Cardiff Singer of the World competition.

As the name, Sounds Familiar suggests, their songs are well loved and familiar to most people and you may even be tempted to sing along at the concert; but better than that, if you enjoy singing and are free on Tuesday evenings why not join them?

New members are welcome and you can obtain further details from Secretary, Pet Mathias at 01656 772451

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

We are so used to our cultural expectations being set by films from America, which have dominated our screens for decades, that it comes as a pleasant surprise to discover a different cinematic experience. I am referring to a film that I watched some years ago called ‘Summerfield’, and it was made in Australia. I know very little about the Australian film industry, many of us have relied instead on television shows like Neighbours and Home and Away to give us a glimpse of down under.

‘Summerfield’ was made in 1977, so it is certainly not new, and its cast includes Nick Tate, John Waters and Elizabeth Alexander in their younger days. It proceeds at quite a leisurely pace, but it has an underlying theme of mystery and menace against a backdrop of beautiful and peaceful coastal scenery. With all due respect to the cast, it is not a film that relies on big names and extravagant production values, it has a down-to-earth quality about it that comes, in my opinion, as a refreshing change. I watched it originally when it was shown on television, but now you can find it on YouTube. Be prepared for a very unexpected ending.

Anthony Hontoir, Downwood Films 07510 934299

Picture: Anthony Hontoir (photo courtesy Louise Jones)

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STAG’S WORLD OF ROCK

By the time you’re reading this, no doubt like me you will have had an overdose of the Elvis Festival? I suffered so much that I saw my G.P., and he told me “You’ve not got an Elvis problem, it’s a Tom Jones overdose” so I said “Is that common?” and he replied “It’s not unusual!”

Plenty going on locally.

Bridgend’s Those Damn Crows release a new single which won’t let their thousands of fans down, called “Wake Up (Sleepwalker)”. It rocks! Porthcawl’s singer/songwriter Dil Williams also has a new single/video, “Warm Love”. It really is good, and so is the video, so check it out on YouTube. The legendary Northern Soul Night is back in the Grand Pavilion on Saturday 22nd October. Top DJ’s will be there as well as our very own Nigel Graham. Tickets are available on their Facebook site or from Menz Hairdressers. Another one for your diary is the Tusker Rock Halloween Charity Night at the Hi Tide on Saturday 29th October. Bands appearing include Killin’ Mary, Eldorado Fins, The Fatties and Nin Rixon. Haven’t seen Killin’ Mary but I’ve heard they’re pretty hot so looking to seeing them and the other acts. Get your tickets now!

Stag Marks 07549 728356

Picture: Stag Marks

POEMS

DECISION TIME

Either/or, two simple words, But they can fight within the brain. Causing some confusion, Some stresses, maybe pain. To pick one over the other Either this or that, Brings more to that equation Than a simple mental chat. If the human head had traffic lights, Wedged into those brains Those special lights could help Turn some losses into gains. Just a simple sentence Gets the brain inspired. One simple little question, No either/or required. “Should I do this?” you ask yourself And those lights illuminate. Red for no and green for yes! Now wouldn’t that be great?

YES!

Judy Dee, Porthcawl

THE LAST PRINCE

The year was 1400, And the great Red Dragon had arisen, Through the barren English tundra, Our forces destroyed the invader’s prison.

Our glorious prince had defied the tyrants, To his banner we did rally, Through blood, sweat and tears, Welsh hope and glory we did marry.

Free Wales belongs to the people, And our people should be free, We crushed the invader like an infected beetle, We destroyed the bourgeoisie.

Glyndŵr stood strong, Day by day he thwarted the English plans, Through poetry, sporting endeavour and song, We united the Welsh clans.

Even after our great prince had passed, The spirit of freedom lived on, The Welsh people shall forever last, “Yma o Hyd”, will be our song. Rhys Jones, North Corneli

COLD HAVEN

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ANGELIC HEART

Rest Surf Club my rear and Royal Porthcawl to my right Meeting my swim buddies at first light Morning Sun starting to break the horizon

I begin to feel thankful that I had early arisen

Adorning layers of rubber from head to toes

How this swim will go, who knows Scuttling over the grey jagged rocks into the sea

I start to feel that this is the place for me Icy waters biting and stinging my body I follow the lead of my experienced swim buddy

Like slow moving sloths we move in no hurry

Enjoying the break from life’s stresses and worry

Tide races us around the points We effortlessly release tension from our joints

Hands and feet start to lose feeling However life slows down and find meaning

Making a bee line to the rocks and car We realise that we have swum far Shivering and stumbling over the rocks to get warm

A relief to get out of the cold wetsuits we adorned Cranking the heater on frigid hands and feet

Looking out over the waters so sweet Bristol channel while beige and brown You are true haven that always turns frowns upside down.

Scott Wakelin, Porthcawl

WHEAT AND PIGS

the sun to my back, I walk toward a moonlit field toward the beacon hanging in the sky

I am drawn to its glow like moth to flame the sun strikes me down wings embered

I hit soft ground cradled beneath both sun and moon scorched wings buried beneath the earth the sun blinding, the moon translucent I fill my eyelids with soil, becoming fodder for wheat and pigs

William Watkins, Porthcawl

In memory of my grandmother Pem Davies (1951-2022)

Tears, like dew droplets, may dampen the ground,

But soon her sunshine will dry them all up.

Try to adjust now that she’s not around; Time to get used to her empty teacup, Her books unread and cigarettes unlit. Make space for all the memories to go: What she said, saw, sang, where she used to sit—

Smouldering embers in the afterglow. How else to preserve her angelic heart Now it’s something we have to live without?

How else to keep us from falling apart?

But, chin up, as she’d say, and listen out: For, somewhere up high in the clouds above,

A smiling voice is saying, “Hiya, love!”

Samuel Pryce, Porthcawl

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SMILE

There’s nothing like a smile as happy as a sunray, From deep down inside it lightens up the day.

Our burden is heavy when faces are cast down,

So why not wear a smile instead of a frown.

Our journey may be tedious if we stamp and ball and shout, Our faces will impede us, so what’s that all about?

Mindfulness each day might help us find our way, Or a kneeling prayer at sunrise, a cheerful shout hooray.

Let’s linger a while before the sun comes out

And lift up both corners, don’t be a sad trout.

God made us His sunbeam, it’s what Life’s all about.

Sally Richards, Porthcawl

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HEALTH

COST OF CANCER CHARITY NEWS

It’s not far off our charity ball now and we’re getting really excited for the 1st ball in 3 years.

We’ve got the brilliant Omega Blend playing, as well as a disco to finish off the evening. We have VIP tickets as well as standard tickets. Both are a fantastic 3 course meals; the only difference is that the VIP’s have a fizz and canapes reception beforehand. We’ve still got a few VIP tables left so if you’re looking for a special treat head over to the website.

Tickets sales for our charity ball tickets are going well but we’d like to sell more. The more we sell the bigger the night will be so please do go onto our website to buy your tickets, www.costofcancer.org.uk

It is really important for us to keep putting the message out there, what and why we do what we do.

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.

Finally, please do follow us on all social media platforms and remember we help those who are finding life a struggle financially whilst going through treatment for Cancer.

Nicky, Emma & Cath Trustees

PLANT BASED MILK ALTERNATIVES

Soy milk contains all the essential amino acids, which is similar to dairy milk. It is also cholesterol-free and low in saturated fat. Almond milk is lower in calories than dairy milk, which may be preferred in adults trying to lose weight. However, this is not a good alternative if there are nut allergies present.

Cashew milk has a creamy taste, which may be preferred over almond milk. It is also high in vitamin E, lower in calories, and fits well into a vegan diet. But, cashew milk has a low protein content, so it may not be helpful to meet one’s overall protein needs.

Rice milk is a good option if there are allergies to dairy, nuts, or soy products. However, rice milk contains a higher carbohydrate and calorie content, so may not be appropriate for someone following a calorie-controlled diet.

For an everyday milk, you’ll want to choose one that does not contain any added sugar. When choosing one of these products, try to opt for the non-sweetened version, as it is important to lower intake of products with a lot of added sugar. It’s also important to choose the option low in sodium and low in unhealthy fats.

Read more at: www.healthline.com Supplied by Glyn Hardwicke

TIME TRAVEL

Ever wondered about travelling back in time and changing one or two things? How could this happen when I do not have a time machine.

Maybe you do! Let music be your guide, think about when and where you would like to be and remember the sounds you enjoyed, then listen to your music, close your eyes and let the years slip away.

Where are you, what are you wearing, who is with you, what is the temperature, are you comfortable, happy, sad and what would you like to change?

Now you know what it is you would change, think about what else would happen as a result of your actions, one part of your life would improve but something else would never have happened.

The same thoughts happen in the present. So often we have to make a choice or a decision and don’t know which path to take, just make the choice based on what you know to be true today. You may look back and think you could have made a better choice but the truth is we can only decide based on what we know on the day. If you feel you made the wrong choice, forgive yourself.

Margaret Brown

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WELSH NHS NEEDS DIGITAL UPGRADE TO BEAT BACKLOGS

I HAVE challenged the delays in introducing electronic prescribing in Wales. England has had it for ten years but the failure to do so here has resulted in a less nimble NHS, massively contributing to the delays and backlogs, which have been a feature of our health service for too many years.

I asked Welsh Health Minister Eluned Morgan for an update on the introduction of these changes, which will assist the primary care sector. She said we are dependent on the suppliers of GP and pharmacy IT systems but work is underway with a pilot scheme being planned.

I welcome these developments but have to ask - Where have you been until now? Welsh health ministers have responded at glacial speed to the evolving needs of the NHS either with digital prescribing or with the setting up of surgical hubs only now being rolled out when there are over 100 in England. These are vital tools in tackling the massive backlog of patients waiting for treatment or surgery in Wales with one in four of the population on an NHS waiting list.

Wales cannot remain behind the curve like this when people’s health and futures are at stake.

DR ALTAF HUSSAIN Regional Senedd Member

NEW SERVICE AIMS TO SUPPORT YOUNG CARERS

An all-new service has been launched to help children and young people who act as unpaid carers for a relative, neighbour or friend.

The Young Carers service provides direct support as well as practical advice, guidance and more. Operating out of a new centre on Five Bells Road, it looks after the health and wellbeing of young carers, and includes opportunities to gain new qualifications, develop important life skills and take part in issuebased workshops as well as signposting them to further support. The service also provides a youth club with various social activities, and a home transport service that ensures the service and its facilities remains available to all young carers on a weekly basis.

Run in partnership between Whitehead-Ross Education, Welsh Government and Bridgend County Borough Council, the service forms part of the Families First programme, which supports the most vulnerable children and adults within our communities. This fantastic new service is going to be a major source of support, and I hope that young carers make full use of it. A wide range of further support and advice is also available for anyone who acts as an unpaid carer - you can find out more by visiting the carers page at www.bridgend.gov.uk

COUNCILLOR JANE GEBBIE

Deputy Leader Bridgend County Borough Council 01656 643643

www.bridgend.gov.uk

£750,000 FUNDING FOR SAFER STREETS

A joint initiative between the Police and Crime Commissioner for South Wales and Bridgend County Borough Council has resulted in the local Community Safety Partnership receiving almost £750,000 to deliver new initiatives to prevent neighbourhood crime.

Part of the Home Office Safer Streets programme, the funding will be used to help make streets and town centre areas safer through a range of initiatives.

These include the installation of street-based CCTV cameras at key locations, free self-defence classes, rolling out mobile youth unit vehicles to boost youth engagement, and the commissioning of a safe space scheme where people can seek refuge if they feel threatened or intimidated.

With crime prevention roadshows targeting specific areas to reduce residential burglaries and encourage more neighbourhood watch schemes, police patrols will be increased and a new ‘taxi marshal’ scheme introduced for Bridgend town centre.

The funding will also support a street art project targeting locations suffering from graffiti and vandalism, and ‘Don’t be a Bystander’ training for people working in the night-time economy which seeks to reduce violence against women and girls.

This funding will be of huge help in ensuring the safety of local residents - find out more by visiting the Bridgend Community Safety Partnership.

COUNCILLOR NEELO FARR

Cabinet Member for Regeneration Bridgend County Borough Council

Tel: 01656 643643

FREE MEALS FOR RECEPTION AGE PUPILS

The 2022 autumn term in Bridgend County Borough has coincided with a new initiative to ensure that primary school children will not go hungry.

All children who attend reception classes at local primary schools are being offered the option of a free school meal.

The move marks the first phase in the roll-out of the Universal Primary Free School Meals scheme – a £25m Welsh Government initiative that will help ease the burden of the ongoing cost of living crisis.

As part of this Wales-wide scheme, the council is investing £1.1m improving kitchen facilities in local schools to support the initiative, which is on track to cover all primary school year groups over the next two years.

The initiative has been launched at a time when it will also help local families cope with the difficulties and challenges of the cost of living crisis.

This initial phase is targeting our youngest learners, and the next phase will see the offer extended to pupils in Years One and Two before moving on to target children in Years Three, Four, Five and Six.

Ultimately, we want to ensure that by 2024, all primary school children can receive the offer of a free school meal.

COUNCILLOR HUW DAVID

Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council

Tel: 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk

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SEWAGE POLLUTION OF PORTHCAWL BEACHES MUST BE TACKLED

Following sewage pollution incidents along the coast at Porthcawl, I contacted Welsh Government to ask what action will be taken to prevent these incidents in the future. As these matters are devolved, it is Welsh Government that is responsible for regulating water quality and storm water overflows in Wales. Shockingly, a report by the Senedd ‘s own Environmental Committee earlier this year revealed that untreated sewage had been discharged into Welsh waterways more than 100,000 times in just 12 months. Storm water overflows should operate only in extreme weather conditions but in Wales they are used all the time.

I back calls in the Senedd from Welsh Conservatives for Welsh Government to take urgent action to overhaul the Victorian sewerage system we have in Wales. But no plans have been announced.

In England, water companies are now regulated under the Environment Act 2021. This places new duties on them to monitor and publish data on storm water overflows and to check water quality both upstream and downstream of the overflows and also of sewage treatment plants. They must also take action to tackle these issues long term.

Yet again, Wales is behind the curve. Welsh Government needs to act now.

JAMIE WALLIS MP for Bridgend

ADDITIONAL LEARNING FUNDING

Access to support in schools and wider community for additional learning needs (ALN) is a key issue for constituents across Bridgend and Porthcawl. In May this year, I asked the Minister for Education what the Welsh Government is doing to support schools to catch up with ALN assessments to ensure no child falls through the gaps due to the pandemic. The Minister for Education responded that ALN provisions are a priority for our Welsh Government and have provided £18 million to support schools, health boards, and young people.

The Welsh Government recently announced funding for a Speech, Language, and Communications (SLC) identification tool. The tool will allow early-year professionals to identify children at risk of language difficulties early in life, making it possible for them to get the support they need, preventing longterm effects.

We must make sure that all children can strive to their potential. This means prioritising early intervention, investing in initiatives that ensure children most in need, or who need extra support are offered support by the right person, in the right place, at the right time.

This support by the Welsh Government is hugely welcomed. If anyone has any queries, please contact my office at sarah.murphy@senedd.wales

SARAH MURPHY MS Member of the Senedd for Bridgend

NEWS FROM THE PORTHCAWL MAYOR

I am writing this with mixed emotion as we are still in the aftermath of losing our Monarch. Queen Elizabeth II. We have observed how well loved and respected the Queen was throughout the World and for all but a few of us she was the only sovereign we have every known and will be greatly missed. Many members of the local community visited the Council offices to sign the Book of Condolence, flowers were laid as a mark of respect outside the Porthcawl Museum and a Service of Remembrance was held at All Saints Church in recognition of the remarkable dedication and loyal service of the Queen.

On behalf of the people of Porthcawl I would like to convey our deepest sympathy to the Royal family at this sad time. Our thoughts and prayers are with them. The impact of the loss of our Queen will, I am sure, resonate for many years to come.

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BRYNTIRION COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL

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Jesus College Oxford came in to dispel myths about Oxbridge, answer questions on the application process, give tips on writing a personal statement and he also modelled some interviewstyle critical thinking questions. The masterclass was a huge success, thanks to Matt for giving us all a deeper insight into the Oxbridge application process - and best of luck to all our Year 13 students as they complete their UCAS applications.

Andrew Slade, Head Teacher

On behalf of everyone, we would like to congratulate pupils in Years 10 – 13 on their fantastic results this year! Despite the disruption and the uncertainty, pupils persevered and excelled, and we are immensely proud of you all! To those pupils moving on, we wish you all well for the future and look forward to hearing all about your successes! It was a busy end to the academic year, with rewards trips to Oakwood and the phenomenal school show, West Side Story. It was a pleasure and a privilege to see such talent on display here at Bryntirion. A huge thank you to all who came to see the show and for all your support. A group of pupils in Year 10 visited Cefn Glas Infants School to collaborate with the pupils to create a beautiful mural, celebrating their school with an Eco-themed sunflower design. With pupils’ handprints as petals, it will be part of the history of Cefn Glas for years to come. We would like to extend a warm welcome to parents of Year 5 and 6 pupils to visit the school during our Open Evening on October 6th at 5.30pm.

PORTHCAWL COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL

ST CLARE’S SCHOOL

In preparation for the New Curriculum starting in September 2023, all the Year 7 pupils participated in an Expressive Arts workshop in the Jubilee Theatre on their first day at PCS. Pupils were introduced to the theme of African Culture and the importance of self-expression, which will be an overarching focus across Art, Drama, Music and Textiles in Term 1, culminating in a performance in the Jubilee Theatre in December. Pupils experienced a ‘flavour’ of the term as they undertook some rhythm exercises and confidence building tasks. Pupils were also informed of the fantastic enrichment opportunities provided at PCS.

On Wednesday 14th September, Dr Matthew Williams from

How wonderful to welcome everyone back for a brand-new term packed with inspiring lessons, exciting extra-curricular activities, fixtures and trips!

St Clare’s provides an exceptional education from 2 ½ to 18, combining academic excellence with unrivalled pastoral care and a wide-ranging extra-curricular programme.

Our Prep School and Nursery enjoy weekly Forest School and learn both Spanish and French. Pupils benefit from enviable sporting facilities and eleven acres of idyllic grounds to focus on play, exploration and discovery. We know that high-quality early education provision is essential to children’s development. Deliberately smaller classes ensure teachers can give children the time, individual attention, academic support and stretch to achieve their full potential.

St Clare’s offers a traditional academic education with inspirational teaching leading to excellent results. Our GCSE options now include Business and Triple Maths. In the top 5% of top-performing schools for A-Level performance since 2018, A-Level results this year were 45% A*, 75% A*/A and 90% A*/B with many students securing first-choice universities to read competitive subjects such as Medicine, Mechanical Engineering or exciting apprenticeships in Engineering.

Important dates: Moo Music (Nursery) 5-Oct; Senior Discovery Day & Assessment/Scholarship Day 9 & 10-Nov; Application deadline 26-Nov. Call 01656-789966 or visit www.stclares-school.co.uk

Helen Hier, Head Teacher

Picture caption: High-quality early education is essential

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SCHOOLS

PORTHCAWL PRIMARY NEWS

The new academic year promises to be even more exciting than previous years with the introduction of the new Curriculum for Wales. All primary schools have designed their own curriculum, within a framework, which means that Porthcawl Primary School’s curriculum is unique! We have combined many exciting experiences and opportunities to enthuse and motivate our pupils whilst providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a changing world. Our curriculum celebrates the wonderful fact that we are in Porthcawl and Wales. Our school community has put lots of work into creating the curriculumwe are looking forward to sharing it with everyone. We are a small and friendly primary school set in large grounds. We always prioritise well-being and are proud of our excellent academic standards. Our classes are small and organised in year groups; the average class size is 22 children. If you have moved into the area and are looking for a new school, please contact me for a chat on the number below or email admin.porthcawlprimary@bridgend.gov.uk. We have Nursery spaces for September 2023. Our Nursery Open Mornings are on the 18th October and 6th December at 9.10am.

Jo Rowley, Head Teacher 01656 815660

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. It’s going to be a busy few months! We will be trialling the new Curriculum for Wales across the whole school, providing hands-on education whilst listening to the voice of the learner. Our focus will be on wellbeing, with aspects such as children’s rights and mindfulness playing a key role in our day-to-day activities.

Our Foundation Phase pupils will be studying “Our World” this term, looking at the classroom, school and local community. Key Stage 2 pupils will investigate a variety of questions relating to keeping our bodies and minds healthy. We are looking forward to restarting our clubs this term. The Urdd Sports Camp is available for pupils in years 3 to 6. This will be held on a Tuesday afternoon, starting on 27th September (exact times tbc). We will continue to offer lunchtime clubs, such as Spanish, netball and crafts. Details of these may be found on our school website/app.

Fill each cell of the grid so that each row, each column, and each 3

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

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FEATURES

GUIDE DOGS APPEAL

Do you love baking cake – or eating it? Join the Guide Dogs Appeal this month and help “bake a difference” for people living with sight loss.

Everyone who signs up will receive a free Labrador-shaped cookie cutter and recipe, so you can create your very own litter of life-changing guide dogs. Every cupcake you bake and sell really does count:

· £26 can buy a white harness, the iconic symbol of a working guide dog.

· £56 could help support a working partnership for a week.

· £125 could buy a Starter Kit for a new guide dog owner, containing everything they need to start a life with their new guide dog.

· £161 could pay for a day of training for a future guide dog.

· £232 could buy two Training School Kits for guide dog trainers who will go on to teach pups the specialist skills they need to become a qualified guide dog.

· £312 could buy a child or teen with a vision impairment an iPad to help them with their education, hobbies and staying in touch with friends.

So go on, roll up your sleeves and get baking!

Get your free cookie cutter at guidedogs.org.uk/appeal

PORTHCAWL LIONS

After a busy September, as we move into autumn, we are taking stock and thinking about ways in which Porthcawl Lions and the community support each other, and planning ahead for future fund-raising activities. For members of Porthcawl Lions themselves, having recently welcomed a number of new members into the fold, we are looking forward to a social event for Halloween, trying to out compete the children with our spooky costumes. We are increasing our contribution to the Food Bank each month and we continue to support KPC Youth. Through the Lions Club International, we are contributing to the Pakistan Disaster Fund. None of this would be possible without the fantastic support we receive from members of the public who come to our events, and rush eagerly to drop their change into our collection buckets. It is heart-warming to be on the receiving end of such generosity knowing it is going to worthy causes. Porthcawl Lions have also benefited this year from the support of local organisations including: the Hi Tide, the YMCA, Porthcawl Museum, Pyle Rugby Club and Samantha B. For more information please e-mail: contactus@porthcawllions. org.uk or contact us via the website: https://porthcawllions.org. uk/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/porthcawllions. Caroline Limbert

TOOLS FOR SELF RELIANCE

We are back in the workshop after a summer break. We are now making individual kits for a single craftsman so they can work away from their villages in Uganda. These kits will be used for Building, Carpentry and Automotive projects.

The photo shows another container of tools, this time bound for Malawi on its way to Southampton then on to Dar–es–Salaam in Tanzania through the Suez Canal to be transported on to Malawi. You may be able to spot a crate near the top on the right hand side with a daffodil stencilled on it, this is one of five crates from our workshop containing the tools that you have donated. They are - Carpentry group sized kits for 3 trainees, Auto mechanics and electrical wiring kits. The rest of the kits were put together by seven other TFSR Groups Baildon, Bristol, Holt, Liverpool, Didsbury, Clun and Southwell. Quite a complex operation.

We make our own crates for the tools, these are made from 12mm plywood. If you have any to spare we would be grateful.

The maximum size we use is 350mm x 1200mm, you may have some off-cuts that you may be willing to donate.

Please contact John on 01656 786367. Thank you for your donations.

David Cook, Workshop Manager

PORTHCAWL NCI REPORT HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II 1926-2022

Out of respect to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, all of the fifty-nine National Coastwatch Institution stations flew the Union Flag at half-mast from Thursday 8th September until 08:00 on Tuesday 20th September, the day following The Queen’s State Funeral. The following message was conveyed to our Royal Patron, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal on behalf of the NCI ‘Your Royal Highness, The Chairman, Board of Trustees and Watchkeepers of the National Coastwatch Institution wish to express to Your Royal Highness our deep and profound sadness and our condolences on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Our thoughts and prayers are with Your Royal Highness and the members of your family’.

Laurence Bater Media Officer, Porthcawl NCI

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GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH UKRAINIAN SUPPORT GROUP

August 24th was Ukrainian Independence Day. There was a mixture of feelings amongst the Ukrainian community in Porthcawl, they were keen to celebrate the independence of their country but were also mindful that their country is still fighting to know this throughout the land.

Grace Community Church held an Independence Party at our weekly café. Each family brought traditional Ukrainian food and we had a real feast with stuffed dumplings, pancakes, potato cakes, salads and even blue and yellow cake. We drank tea from flowers picked in and sent straight from Kyiv! To end the evening, we all joined in with karaoke featuring Ukrainian songs and ended the evening by all standing and singing a very emotional rendition of the Ukrainian National Anthem. It really was a special evening and one that we will remember for a long time to come.

September will bring big changes for some of the Ukrainian teenagers that have been in town for the last few months as they will start University. Understandably there is a mixture of excitement and nerves, but we will continue to support the girls as they start this new chapter of their lives. I’ll keep you updated on how they get on!

PORTHCAWL JOY-RIDERS LAUNCH EVENT

Porthcawl JOY-riders successfully demonstrated a trishaw (gratefully loaned from the Monmouth chapter) along the seafront on the Saturday of the August Bank holiday weekend. We were also invited to the Albert Edward Prince of Wales Court on the Sunday, to give rides to a number of the guests of the care home.

Both events were an opportunity to showcase the trishaw and demonstrate its value in terms of a holistic and social prescription approach for the older and less abled members of our community.

We were able to sign up a number of potential new trishaw

pilots and received some generous donations from members of the public to be able to run the charity effectively.

With trishaws on order, one for imminent delivery, we will soon be in a position to offer rides along the beautiful Porthcawl seafront. (Details of a more formal launch will appear in the next issue of Seaside News)

If you wish to find out more about Porthcawl JOY-riders check out the link below for more details or contact Steve on 07791 101081 or via email smccreery@hotmail.co.uk https://cyclingwithoutage.org.uk

INTERESTING TO SAY THE LEAST

What an interesting talk from Mr Andrew Collier about the History of Britain’s Prime Ministers, starting with Robert Gascoyne-Cecil (1885) 3rd Marques of Salisbury who become leader of the Conservative party after the death of Disraeli in 1881.His firm government reforms saw the creation of Rhodesia-modern day Zimbabwe and its capital city is named Salisbury. In 1902 he retired and his nephew Balfour become Prime Minister who standardised the education Act, handing powers from school’s boards to the LEA’s.

Henry Campbell-Bannerman (1905)

1908 Herbert Henry Asquith, saw troubled times, Irish Home rule and Women Suffrage. The Old Age Pension Act (1908) laid foundation of the modern Welfare State followed by National Insurance Act (1911) provided an income for working people suffering illness or unemployment, he was merited for leading Britain out of the first World war.

David Lloyd George /Stanley Baldwin/Neville Chamberlain/ Winston Churchill.

Clement Attlee (1945-51) Creation of the National Health Service in 1946, brought under state control coal mining, Electricity and the Railways, nationalised a 5th of the entire British economy Also public access to National parks and the countryside.

Harold Wilson/Edward Heath/ Margaret Thatcher/ John Major and Tony Blair all Prime Ministers contributed to Britain in varies ways.

Barbara Matthews

DIY AND TRADE HIRE

FEATURES

THROUGH CHRISTIAN EYES

Do you remember the days of school or church Harvest Festivals? Did you sing ‘All Things Bright and Beautiful’, or ‘We Plough the Fields and Scatter’? This month is traditionally the end of the harvest season when hopefully all is gathered in before the winter storms begin.

Many churches still hold Harvest Services but often with a more culturally relevant focus. Modern harvest services continue to thank God of the produce of the land and sea, but also include practical food collections for local Foodbanks, etc., and, financial collections for famine and disaster relief overseas.

This winter threatens to be a difficult time for many people in our land with rising prices and energy costs. Someone has said they will have to choose to ‘heat or eat’. In these tough times it is good for those of us whom God has blessed to share with those in need. So if you see your local church advertise a Harvest Festival, it’s not being old fashioned – it’s simply remembering to thank God for our food and seeking to share our blessings with others. Why not go along, and take something to give away.

Harvest Family Service at Gilgal Baptist Church, Park Avenue is 10.30am on Sunday 2nd October.

For more information about Gilgal or about the Christian faith contact Rev. Martin Gillard at gillardmc@aol.com or check out our website at: www.gilgal.co.uk

Martin Gillard

TOWNSWOMENS GUILD

After our summer break members met again in a rather sombre mood. We were asked to stand in memory of the Queen and two members Viv Binks and Shirley Middlemas.

Our speaker was an old favourite Debra John who took us on a fascinating ocean journey to Cape Town. Her storytelling covered wizards, pirates and why the sea is salt!

A welcome cup of tea then down to Guild business! The afternoon tea at Margam Orangery organised by Swansea Federation had been very enjoyable.

Our Christmas Fayre will be on November 18th at Trinity Church Hall and is in aid of Porthcawl Food Bank. We learnt that families are referred to the Food Bank for a weekly family package. Money is always needed to purchase any items, which are not available in the food bank. Members were asked to bring food items next month for the bank.

Our meeting this month is on October 12th 2.p.m. at The Grove Golf Club when the Rev. Clive Williams will make a welcome return. Do join us to hear a fine musician!

Dorothy Thomas 01656 772157

SKER WI NEWS

Members met on the 8th of September when Helen Dennis spoke about the Monkey Sanctuary at Abercave. She gave a very interesting and amusing talk about her work as volunteer at the Sanctuary and members show an interest in a possible visit. The members discussed WI business and were informed about the forthcoming events. Our next meeting is on the 13th October at 7pm in St David’s Church Hall. Visitors are most welcome.

Jackie Jones

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MYNYDD CYNFFIG WI

The months are rushing by the 2nd Tuesday of the month came around and we were meeting once again in the Talbot Center Kenfig Hill. We held a minute silence for our late queen, queen Elizabeth the second, and all wished the new king our best wishes. It will be funny not to hear the queen s speech this Christmas but look forward hearing the new king . WI business sorted we discussed out trip to Ludlow and all agreed it was a great success, we arranged our lunch club for this month as well as walking club and scrabble clubs. We agreed that we would have our Christmas party in the Talbot Center as last year was a great success and we know it’s several months away but it will be with us before we know it. Our talk was by Laurence Bater, on the coast watch. We now know what goes on in the white tower by the harbour - it was very informative. Next month we’re having an art demonstration by Derek Windsor call in meet us we’re there 2pm to 4pm we’ve always got tea and biscuits and a warm welcome.

Christine Callaghan

SEASIDE STITCHERS

On September 12th at Arlington Road Presbyterian Church Porthcawl, Seaside Stitchers were pleased to host Zelda Lawrence-Curran of Modern Welsh Quilts for her talk ‘Quilts of the Llynfi and Garw valleys - the missing link?’

Zelda discussed how the migration of Welsh miners and their families to America may have resulted in a cross-development between the Welsh quilt traditions the immigrants took with them and American, and in particular Amish, quilts - using her own ancestry to illustrate her theory. Unlike the widely accepted Welsh quilting tradition of wholecloth or ‘large design’ quilts with intricate quilting stitches, the quilts made by women in the Llynfi and Garw valleys used only plain fabrics, used blocks to produce intricate secondary patterns and had only minimal quilting. These quilts were made to be used so were bed sized. Patterned fabric was seen as ‘showing off’, but often several shades of the same colour was used as this was perceived as illustrating the variety found in Nature.

After the talk, tea and cake were served, the raffle was drawn and there was an opportunity for a little retail therapy courtesy of Pink Scissors Fabric. All in all an informative entertaining and thoroughly enjoyable afternoon”.

Linda Parsons

LALESTON WI

Our September meeting was held on Wednesday 7th which was our our Harvest Auction where our Auctioneer for this evening was Joan Murrell one of our members who managed to sell all the goods with much humour and it managed to raise £80. Money raised goes to a local charity and it was decided that it would be given to Bridgend Community Bus. Members were thanked for their very generous donations. Members were told that our bus for our Trip on 21st September to Westonsuper-Mare would be leaving Laleston at 10.00 am. We had 2 prospective new members as guests. Our meeting finished with the singing of The National Anthem little did we think that this would be the last time that we sang God Save the Queen. Our W.I. meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 2pm at The Blandy Hall Laleston.

More information from Diane Marshall on 01656 656600

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Seaside

WELSH FOOTBALL LEGENDS: TREVOR FORD

Born on 1 October 1923, Trevor Ford was a centre forward who played for Swansea Town, Aston Villa, Sunderland, Cardiff City, PSV Eindhoven, Newport County and the Wales national team.

In a career that spanned fifteen years he scored 202 league goals in 401 matches.

As an international, Trevor represented Wales on 38 occasions becoming his country’s record goalscorer with 23 goals, a record later equalled by Ivor Allchurch then surpassed by Ian Rush and Gareth Bale. Due to a technical suspension, Trevor was not selected for the 1958 World Cup finals, a bitter blow for him and Wales.

Trevor used his physicality to great effect and often stretched the rules to the limit when challenging goalkeepers. His Wales international teammate John Charles said, “He used to bang everybody and knock them out of the way, he was never frightened.”

Trevor admitted that his personality changed when he stepped on to the pitch and that he played “like an animal”. However, no referee cautioned him or sent him off.

Trevor won his final Welsh cap on 20 October 1950 in a 2–2 draw with Scotland. Of course, he scored.

Hannah Howe, international bestselling author https://hannah-howe.com

EARLY DAYS OF THE GRAND PAVILION

The Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl, was officially opened on 8th August 1932 by Councillor Russell Mabley J.P., Chairman of P.U.D.C. At a cost of £25,000 it provided seating for 1000 people, public shelters, an ornamental sunken garden, with further plans for a Palm Court. The clock was supplied by Porthcawl jeweller H. Clare, as a result of public subscription. The pavilion was intended primarily be a dance hall, but it wasn’t long before variety shows, and dramatic performances were on the bill. The Porthcawl Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society’s first performance in their new venue was ‘The Girls of Gottenburg’ in March 1933.

The Pavilion continued to provided entertainment throughout WW2. Wednesday night was dance night, the P.A.O.D.S. performed a variety of concerts and in May 1945 the end of the war was celebrated with a R.A.F. Stormy Down Dance. Interestingly, in October 1940 Dame Sybil Thorndike appeared for two nights in Macbeth.

On 5th October 1957, the singer, actor and civil rights activist Paul Robeson performed ‘live’ at the Pavilion via a transatlantic telephone link and in the 1970’s Stan Stennett introduced his pantomimes, which not only became popular with the public, but actually helped save the pavilion from closure.

Ceri Joseph

FINANCE

YOUR MONEY DURING THE QUEEN’S REIGN

Can you believe that one pound at the start of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign is now worth thirty-five pounds! Putting it another way if you just found that pound you lost in 1952 it’s now worth just three pence. That’s not the queen’s fault, that’s what inflation does over time.

A pint of milk was 4p and a pint of beer 8p and you could post a first-class letter for 1p. Those were the days, or were they? What would have been the best investment over the last seventy years I hear you ask? You need to keep pace with inflation to get a real return and as this has taken £100 to £3,500 gold just beats it at £5,170. The Dow Jones index would have taken the same £100 to £11,400 over the same period but the winner would have been property as the equivalent would have been a whopping £14,000.

The average cost of a house then was £1,850 and now £260,000 so 140 time more. Wages haven’t kept in touch with this as then the average house would have been four times your annual wage whereas now it’s probably nine times. No wonder that first time buyers are priced out of the market today.

Some things however were much more expensive when inflation adjusted. A Hoover washing machine was £42, which equates to £1,500 today and a Hoover vacuum cleaner £24 or £840 in real terms, which is why we had a mangle and a sweeping brush.

A new Ford Anglia was £310 and a gallon of petrol to run it 27p so when we think that petrol is expensive at £2 today it’s the equivalent to £10 today so we are better off in many ways. Are we learning anything from this? Anything you invest in needs to keep pace with inflation or you’re losing money in the long term. Also, you need to diversify and not keep all your eggs in one basket. What’s changed? Nothing’s changed. Your financial advisor should always tell you to spread your investments across several asset classes and over the long term you will make money.

A Murphy 12” black & white TV cost £72 then. Very few could afford one of these, but David Deere’s family had one and he and the neighbours saw the Queen’s Coronation on it, lucky them!

Advisory service like ours is that your choice is massively enhanced, so if one lender says no, another lender could say yes and we’ll know who they are.

Obviously, like buying a house itself, where you need to know all the ins and outs of the property, likewise we need all the important and accurate details about you and your situation, in order to secure the most appropriate scheme for you. With the jobs market also subject to sudden changes, we can also do an appraisal for you, to show you how to protect your mortgage and payments should circumstances move against you at any time. Every day we get notifications from lenders telling us that they are about to bring in changes to their mortgage offerings – very often at the end of that particular working day, so waiting a day or two to see how things are moving, will be too late. It costs you nothing to find out where you stand and if you help us by providing the best information, we are more likely to secure you the best deal – it seems fairly obvious.

Get ahead of the game if you can – call us now even if you still have a month or two before you need to change scheme – very often we can reserve money for you on a new deal many weeks before the deadline.

Call 01656 782545 or 07768 418308 to secure a no-cost appointment. At our place or yours, it’s all the same – let’s just get it sorted.

Independent Mortgage and Protection Advisers

We are the Specialists to call...

Need a new mortgage from a whole of market Adviser?

Over the Age of 55 and need Later Life Lending or Equity Release?

• Refused a mortgage due to Previous Credit Problems?

TIME TO GET A MOVE ON....!

Before December, yes this December up to another million-plus mortgages will require updating, as current deals come to an end – so if your mortgage is due for review now, you need to get a move on as rates are still heading upwards and lenders are each day tightening their criteria.

Being whole-of-market Advisers, we can offer you the advantage of being able to access deals from all UK lenders and that can be done from the comfort of your own home or our office; with either option, we shall take all the essential details from you and feed these into our mortgage market sourcing system that helps us identify lenders and deals that you couldn’t possibly find yourself.

Whether you are in a retirement type mortgage with a high interest rate, looking for a competitive remortgage or even securing a new deal with the same lender, we do all the work for you. The huge benefit of using an independent mortgage

• Trying to get on the ladder as First Time Buyers?

• Life Assurance and Family Protection need reviewing?

• Income protection a problem – not available from work?

Funeral planning? - pre-paid plans to suit everyone

We also work with trusted, qualified financial partners in other areas of financial needs

CALL US ON: 01656 782545

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PAUL FIELDING

PHILIP VAUGHAN

Independent Financial Advisor at Abacus Assurance

LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HISTORY OF DIVORCE

With the introduction of no-fault divorce, 2022 has been a momentous year for divorce law. However, it has taken a long time to get to a point where couples can divorce without apportioning blame or waiting several years before their marriage can be dissolved.

Before 1857, divorce was largely open only to men, and had to be granted by an Act of Parliament, which was hugely expensive, and therefore was also open only to the rich. The Matrimonial Causes Act of that year allowed ordinary people to divorce, but under the new law, women divorcing on the grounds of adultery not only had to prove their husbands had been unfaithful but also had to prove additional faults, which included cruelty, rape, and incest. Men just had to prove their wives had been unfaithful and in an age before smartphones, this was often a tricky task.

A private members’ bill in 1923 made it easier for women to petition for divorce for adultery, but it still had to be proved. In 1937, the law was changed, and divorce was allowed on other grounds including drunkenness, insanity, and desertion.

The Divorce Reform Act of 1969 brought in a big change, allowing couples to divorce after they had been separated for two years (or five years if only one of them wanted a divorce). A marriage could be ended if it had irretrievably broken down, and neither partner no longer had to prove “fault”.

Although change to the divorce law had been debated for years, the arguments for and against no fault divorce came to a head in 2018, when the UK Government confirmed that divorce law would be reformed in England and Wales. So, after more than 50 years we are now in a position where a couple can divorce without unnecessary acrimony.

MADELINE RAND

King Davies & Partners

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Melanie Lazarus & Co Family

Questions Answered

Question: I have discovered that my husband is having an affair with my best friend. I want to file for Divorce and wish to go down the adultery route as I am so upset and feel most strongly that he should be blamed for the marriage breakdown. What do I do next and how much will it cost? I want him to pay for it!

Answer: I appreciate that this must be a very difficult time for you. However, as of April 2022, you are only now able to file for Divorce on a No Fault basis. Petitions for Adultery had to be filed with the Court by 31st March 2022. Some clients rushed to lodge their petitions by this date. Others chose to wait.

The law changed to allow parties to file for Divorce without citing blame as of 6th April 2022. It means that there is less acrimony and hostility. Whilst this may be frustrating for you, under the new rules, you can file on the online Divorce portal and need only state that your marriage has broken down irretrievably. Your husband will not be able to defend the Divorce.

If you are the Applicant filing for Divorce, you can only recover your costs if it has been agreed with your spouse that he will contribute towards those costs. You may wish to discuss this with your husband in advance of filing your application for Divorce. If he refuses, those costs will fall on you.

Whilst the process is more straight forward, many of my clients feel in safer hands by instructing our firm to start the process alongside resolving their financial affairs. Our costs for dealing with the Divorce on a fixed fee basis are £600 inclusive of VAT and there is a Court fee of £593.00.

Melanie Lazarus & Co

are the only specialist Family Solicitors in Bridgend. Specialising in Divorce,

Disputes, Children &

LALESTON GARDENING CLUB

CEFN CRIBWR GARDENING CLUB

The Autumn chill is setting in so time to make sure tender plants are moved into greenhouses or conservatories. A beautiful time of year when leaves turn colour and it’s certainly had an early start this year. Time to cut down perennials that have died back, perennials can also be divided, rhubarb too. A bumper year for apples so there’s much harvesting to do! Spring cabbages can be planted out and lawns can be renovated after a final cut and trim. Don’t forget to prune climbing roses. There is still time to plant bulbs, Daffodils, hyacinth and tulips ready for a lovely display in spring, might seem a long way off just now but it will come.

Our 50th Annual Horticultural Show was a resounding success! Thank you to everyone who supported us, so many people came along and made it a very memorable day!

Our Guest, Kevin Thomas opened the Show and presented prizes, our own Pauline Sloan conducted a very amusing and rewarding auction. Our new tent was full of vegetables and pot plants, which was amazing. The main hall was full of flowers, baking, preserves and crafts, well done to you all! We paid our own tribute to our late monarch and I thank everyone for their contribution to the book of condolence.

Susan Ford

“Bittersweet October, the messy leaf kicking perfect pause between the opposing miseries of summer and winter“(Carol Hipps) lovely. With darker blustery days in mind plant some mood boosting winter bedding plants, Cyclamen might look a bit delicate but they’re a hardy choice really, so pretty but tough as well! Pansies easily out bloom other bedding plants and withstand rain and wind, their beautiful little faces make you smile on a horrid day. If you want scented ones go the yellow and blue ones, and of course they are edible too, the floral version of lettuce! What’s not to love about them!

Time to plant Hyacinths, leave in a cool dark place until the shoots are about 5cm before bringing into the house, they smell delicious, far better than air freshener!

Harvest pumpkin and squash before the first frost (sorry but it’s coming) they quickly turn mushy if left outside, Yuk.

The last mowing of your lawn can be made this month before leaving it for the winter (can you hear my husband cheering in the background!)

Has anyone else’s gardening skills improved since lockdown like mine have? I planted myself on the sofa and have grown bigger ever since!

Chris Early

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What’s on

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

1.30-3pm & 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

7TH

TUESDAY

ART CLASSES, PORTHCAWL

Beginner, experienced or just keen to learn? A variety of classes offered throughout the day by professional artist and tutor Lesley. Call 07484 630706 for details.

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.

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.

PORTHCAWL ART SOCIETY Weekly workshops at 1pm and 7pm. New members welcome. Art Gallery

CWLWM CELTAIDD - WALES’ INTERCELTIC

FESTIVAL OF MUSIC AND DANCE

Hi-Tide, Porthcawl

After two years we are back.

Cwlwm Celtaidd was formed for people to enjoy music and dance from all the Celtic nations, Wales, Scotland, Ireland etc.

For almost twenty years in Porthcawl, it is a lively weekend of Celtic music, dance and song, where you can enjoy concerts, workshops, music sessions and join in with the dancing, ceilidhs and much more.

All day Saturday you will see dancers and musicians in colourful costumes performing in Porthcawl town. Love or hate them the Scottish pipers will be there again!!

There is something for everyone, whether you like the quieter sound of harps or the loud raucous music of the groups, it’s your choice

Of course there is also plenty of quiet music

COME AND ENJOY THE CRAIC Cwlwmceltaidd.org or on Facebook

promote your event info@seasidenews.co.uk

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 Gilgal, Park Avenue on 2nd /4th Wednesdays at 7.30pm. Beginners welcome. We have tuition, demonstrations and social events. See our Facebook page or call 01656 222985.

PORTHCAWL STROKE CLUB Meeting at the Griffin Park Community Hall 2-4pm. Seeking volunteers who are CRB checked, or are prepared to have one. Contact Chairman Mr Keith Duggan & Mrs Mary Duggan on (01656) 773376 or 07484 250988.

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

THURSDAY

BRIDGEND MALE CHOIR

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

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

SATURDAY

LALESTON GARDENING CLUB

Varied activities throughout the week. Located at Cliff Cottage, Laleston, next to the Parish Church. Open every Saturday 10am12noon. 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.

SUNDAY

PORTHCAWL COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA

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

WEDNESDAY 12TH OCTOBER BRIDGEND SOROPTIMISTS

7pm, Heronston Hotel Bridgend

Supper Meeting with Guest Speaker GWERFYL GARDNER. Topic: FLORENCE AND THE OTHER TWO. Sounds intriguing! For more info visit: http://sigbi.org/bridgend-and-district

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BridgendSoroptimists

New members welcome.

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SPORT

PORTHCAWL RNLI RESCUE PADDLEBOARDERS

Three pairs of people on paddleboards were helped to safety by Porthcawl RNLI’s volunteer crew on bank holiday Monday (29 August 2022) off Ogmore By Sea.

UK Coastguard had received reports of multiple people on paddleboards struggling against strong north easterly offshore winds and the tidal current from the incoming spring tide. The charity’s inshore Atlantic 85 lifeboat Rose of the Shires was launched on service and recovered six people in total who were on three separate paddleboards along with their equipment onto the lifeboat.

Helm Chris Missen said:

‘When we arrived on scene we went to each of the three pairs of paddleboarders in turn who gladly accepted our assistance having been battling against the offshore winds and tide.

‘All six people and their paddleboards were taken onboard the lifeboat and then dropped ashore at Ogmore Beach where they were met by our colleagues from RNLI Lifeguards South East Wales.’

The RNLI safety advice to all paddleboarders is:

· Always wear a suitable buoyancy aid.

· Check weather forecast and tide times and avoid going out in offshore winds.

· Carry a means of calling for help. Mobile phones can be kept dry by using a waterproof phone pouch.

· Always go with a friend.

· Always wear your leash and stay on your board if you get into trouble – this will help you float.

· If you get into trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for help. For further information on paddleboarding safely: https://rnli.org/.../choose-your.../stand-up-paddle-boarding Chris Page

SURF REPORT Ogmore by Sea and Southerndown

Now that September is here we have had a few small swells reach our beaches. Some only gave big enough waves for the last hour before the tide got high. The water has been warm and beautiful to relax in. But as always every year that’s when we get less surf. As autumn creeps into our lives and the nights and winds get chilly so too will the sea. The waves will become a little more consistent and a bit bigger. But as always, every season the sea will get cold again. There was the scare of sewage flowing into the sea after downfalls of rain onto a bone dry ground. Hopefully. One day we will have a government that spends money on fixing the country and problems like this. But if we continue to fall for liars, we will never get what we deserve as natives to this country of OURS. David A Batten

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Email: info@seasidenews.co.uk

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Mike