PORTHCAWL | BRIDGEND EDITION
ESTABLISHED 1998
ISSUE 260 SEPTEMBER 2021
HAND DELIVERED DIRECT TO LOCAL HOMES EVERY MONTH 20,500 COPIES
23R D ANNIVERSARY ISSUE
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NEW OPENING OPENING TIMES: 8AM TIMES: TO 6PM MONDAY-FRIDAY 7 DAYS A WEEK 8AM TO 6PM
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YOUR ARTICLES, VIEWS, NEWS & REPORTS View the magazine online at: www.seasidenews.co.uk or via
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Contents LETTERS.......................................................... 8 BOOKS......................................................... 10 PHOTOGRAPHS....................................... 12 HEALTH........................................................ 18 PUZZLES...................................................... 20 NEWS............................................................ 22 SCHOOLS.................................................... 26 POEMS.......................................................... 28 FEATURES.................................................... 30 HISTORY...................................................... 36 FINANCE...................................................... 38 LEGAL............................................................ 40 ARTS.............................................................. 42 DIRECTORY................................................ 43 GARDENING.............................................. 44 SPORT........................................................... 46 TIDES............................................................. 46
8
22
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Where we deliver 20,000 copies hand delivered to local homes in the following areas: Porthcawl, South Cornelly, North Cornelly, Kenfig, Maudlam, Eglwys Nunydd, Margam Village, Pyle, Kenfig Hill, Cefn Cribwr, Penyfai, Laleston, Broadlands & Whiterock.
Pick up a copy An additional 500 copies, available to pick up from the following places: Porthcawl Nottage Stores, Rose & Crown, Library, Beale’s Fish & Chips, Finnegans’s, Bargain Booze Newton, Grove Golf Club. Bridgend Pyle Garden Centre, One Stop Bryntirion, Halo Bridgend, Halo Pyle, Halo Ynysadwre, POW Hospital Bridgend.
31
42
Next deadline Wednesday 15th September - for October issue.
Send us your article There is a 200 word limit on all FREE articles. We only accept articles sent via email. Please remember to TITLE your article and include your name and town you live in. Please send any images as attachments.
46
Seaside News® is published by Seaside Publications Ltd. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we can accept no liability whatsoever for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions, or for any matter in any way arising out of the publication of the magazine or any of the website content. The views expressed in the Seaside News® and on the website are not necessarily the views of the publisher. No part of the magazine or website may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Any breach of copyright will be taken extremely seriously. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any article, advert or website listing without reason. Copyright © Seaside News® 1998-2021 VAT Registration No: 879 7077 54 | Seaside Publications Ltd is registered in Wales, company number 09413904.
4 | seaside news
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seaside news | 7
LETTERS MEADOW LANE PARK, CORNELLY
Dear Editor, I am disappointed to report my observations over the last few months being a regular user of Meadow Lane Park in North Cornelly. The park is enjoyed by numerous; families, dog walkers and is home to Cornelly football and rugby teams as well as other sports users young and old. However on a daily basis it is tarnished by the many male youths who litter and smoke drugs in the football dugouts and surrounding areas of the park. Frequently I have to cut short my visits to the park with my children because of the distinct cloud and smell of cannabis, which is so powerful that it makes me and my family feel sick. I’m very sorry but I cannot see any action from the Police or local authority to keep the park safe and free from the gangs of young males who intimidate and set their own rules. The football pitch has fallen into disrepair with the rusted posts, fences broken and glass and litter surrounding the dugouts and stand. As you can see from the pictures below it is heartbreaking that our young sports people and families have their sports field and park trashed on a daily basis. Gareth Holloway, North Cornelly
Have your say info@seasidenews.co.uk
BRIAN’S TRIFFID Dear Editor, Day of the Triffids - here in Newton, Porthcawl. Brian’s pet cactus, which he imported from sunnier climes many years ago, sadly has finally come to the end of its life’s journey. It’s going to seed, the very nature of which the core of the plant grows exponentially to distribute its seed, at present it is about 20ft and still growing. Most well travelled people have never seen this type of cactus grow to this size? Well done Brian (dangerous) Williams. Bill Seage, Porthcawl
LETTER OF THANKS Dear Editor, As a family we would like to give recognition and gratitude for the outstanding and exceptional care that was tirelessly and consistently provided by the professional team of carers at Danygraig Agency to our mother Audrey Land in her last 18 months of her life at her own home. The carers’ regular visits always included such uplifting kindness and compassion. Their chat and often laughter with Mum and all the family helped to ease our grief and sadness at such a difficult time. We will be forever in their debt. Sue Potts, Porthcawl
PORTHCAWL REGENERATION: A LOST OPPORTUNITY? Dear Editor, Salt Lake is a fantastic opportunity to repurpose and reinvigorate Porthcawl. The ‘space to place’ transformation should include housing, retail, and leisure, all of which will need to be supported by parking and public transport infrastructure. All should be barrier free, all inclusive and sustainable. A ‘park & ride’ in Pyle is a non-starter but could work if positioned on land between Marlpit Lane and the A4106. Far better to ‘deck’ the Hillsboro Place Car Park and include a decked car park to the north of Salt Lake, opposite the Fire Station. These initiatives would compensate for any spaces lost to redevelopment. Positioning Aldi to the north of Salt Lake is also not helpful to an already beleaguered John Street as no one will shop in Aldi and then visit John Street, or visa versa. Locating Aldi on Salt Lake will sever the critical link between local and caravanning shoppers who in reality will drive to Aldi and then drive home and back to their caravans. Far better to locate Aldi at the south of Hillsboro Car Park, facing Dock Street, connecting it with John Street and in doing so creating a stronger retail destination. David Norris, Porthcawl
M DAVIES PROPERTY We can do MAINTENANCE it all! • SUPPLIERS AND FITTERS OF NO JOB TOO BENCHMARX KITCHENS’ SMALL! • BUILDING • ROOFING We do • ELECTRICAL WORK • PLUMBING all the • PLASTERING & RENDERING work • CARPENTRY – from the roof • WINDOWS & DOORS • LANDSCAPING to the garden! • DECKING OVER 40 YEARS IN THE TRADE AND STILL GOING STRONG!
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CONSUMER UNIT UPGRADES
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NOW IS THE TIME TO GIVE YOUR GAS BOILER A SUMMER SERVICE Covid-19 safety procedures in place
Gas • Heating • Plumbing Servicing, Maintenance & Repair Carbon Monoxide can kill! Give your boiler the clean it deserves Gas boiler service from £40 Gas fire service from £25 Gas safety certificate from £50 Legionella risk assessments from £65 1 Hour timeslots so you don’t have to wait in all day. Reliable local service • No job too small “Thank you for your prompt and reliable service – it makes a refreshing change!” Mrs Morgan Kenfig Hill
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BOOKS NEW BOOKS AT PORTHCAWL LIBRARY THE BLACK DRESS FICTION Deborah Moggach
PRIVATE ROGUE James Patterson THE NAMELESS ONES John Connolly THE SECOND WOMAN Charlotte Philby A DREADFUL DESTINY Rosemary Rowe THE HUNT AND THE KILL Holly Watt IT’S BETTER THIS WAY Debbie Macomber RABBIT HOLE Mark Billingham
THE BOURNE TREACHERY Brian Freeman SOUL SISTERS Lesley Lokko SHADOW OVER SOUTHWOLD Suzette A. Hill UNDERBELLY Anna WHitehouse
NON FICTION A SOUNDTRACK FOR LIFE Alex Johnson
THE NIGHT SHE DISAPPEARED Lisa Jewell
HEALTHY VEGAN: THE COOKBOOK Niko Rittenau & Sebastian Copien
FAST TRACK Stephen Leather
THE RIGHT SORT OF GIRL Anita Rani
TWO HITLERS AND A MARILYN Adam Andrusier
MARADONA : THE BOY, THE REBEL, THE GOD Guillem Balagué
KATE BLADON Facebook: PorthcawlLibrary | PyleLibrary Porthcawl Library Tel: 01656 754845 | 01656 754850 Email: porthcawl.library@awen-wales.com pyle.library@awen-wales.com
A DEL OF A LIFE – by David Jason ‘A Del of a life’ sees Sir David recount tales of his life and the lessons learnt from them. Written during the first Covid lockdown (and his 80th year), this book provides a fascinating account of his humbling beginnings to how he became one of the nations national treasures. Whether it be flogging ‘hooky’ gear down the market with Del, eating a full English with Pa Larkin or cracking cases with DI Jack Frost, this warm-hearted recollection of his life will keep you entertained for hours. I’ve borrowed this book three times already as it’s one which is so easy to keep picking up and dipping in and out of. So to quote Sir David, when reading this book, ‘Lean back, pour yourself a glass, and try not to fall through the bar flap!’
CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING • Freshen ups • Steam cleans • Pet & odour treatments • Stain treatments
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TEL: 07792 926547 10 | seaside news
DECORATIVE AGGREGATE
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T: 01656 742830 / E: enquiries@braceys.co.uk / W: www.braceys.co.uk
MON - FRI: 7:00am - 5:00pm / SAT: 7:00am - 4:00pm seaside news | 11
PHOTOGRAPHS CACTUS FLOWER
SEAFRONT REFLECTIONS
MIke Weaver, Penyfai
Pat Lathey, Penyfai
VERDANT GROWTH
SERENE SUMMER
Anthony Callaghan, Porthcawl
Marilyn Cook, Bridgend
TOBY AT SANDY BAY
PARC SLIP
Wendy Walters, Pyle
Aston D-G, Aberkenfig
12 | seaside news
Email us your pictures info@seasidenews.co.uk
SURFER DUDE
FROM OGMORE TO PORTHCAWL
Pat Thomas, Porthcawl
REFURBISHED PORTHCAWL LIFEBOAT
Gemma Watts, Porthcawl
Stan Konkol, Porthcawl
seaside news | 13
Garage Doors Repaired _Seaside News_March 2019.pdf
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08:57
FA S T - R E L I A B L E - A F F O R D A B L E C
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14 | seaside news
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Address: 75 New Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DH (opposite Griffin Park) Tel: 01656 783699 Day or Night For further information on the services we provide visit www.porthcawlfuneralservices.co.uk or find us on Facebook Serving Porthcawl and the whole of Bridgend County seaside news | 17
HEALTH
Email your article info@seasidenews.co.uk
COST OF CANCER
COCONUT WATER
One of the things that the pandemic has shown us is that virtual events are ok, but you can’t beat a live event and we’ve just confirmed our 1st live event for 2021 which is going the be our Light for a Life. We are so happy that finally we’re able to do a live event. This event will take place on the 5th December at the Hi-Tide, Porthcawl from 4pm. We love this event as it’s where we can remember our loved ones and include them in Christmas. For those of you who don’t know this event it’s where we have Father Christmas bringing presents for the kids, there’s Christmas carols sung, there’s usually hot food too. There’s also a raffle but the most important part of the night is where we turn on the Christmas Tree lights in honour of our loved ones. It really is a lovely night. So please get your friends and families to join us for this lovely evening. It’s free to join us we just ask that you get involved in the raffle or do a donation for your loved ones. Please do keep an eye out on our social media platforms, Facebook, and Instagram for event updates. You can also find this event advertised with The HiTide. Nicky, Emma & Cath Trustees
Coconuts grow in tropical climates on trees scientifically known as Cocos nucifera, and are botanically considered a fruit. Coconut water is the liquid found in the center of a young, green coconut. It helps nourish the fruit. As the coconut matures, which takes around 10–12 months, some of the liquid remains while the rest ripens into the solid white flesh known as coconut meat. Coconut water typically comes from young coconuts about 6–7 months of age, though it’s also found in mature fruit. Coconut water contains 94% water and very little fat. It should not be confused with coconut milk, which is made by adding water to grated coconut meat. Coconut milk contains about 50% water and is quite high in fat. Carbs: 15 grams, Sugar: 8 grams, Calcium: 4% of the daily value (DV), Magnesium: 4% of the DV, Phosphorus: 2% of the DV, Potassium: 15% of the DV. Coconut water contains antioxidants that have shown to be beneficial in research involving rats and mice, but human studies are lacking. Studies on animals with diabetes suggest that coconut water may improve blood sugar control, but more research involving humans needs to be done. Taken from www.healthline.com Supplied by Glyn Hardwicke
Porthcawl PhysiotheraPy & sPorts injury clinic 33 Mary St, Porthcawl CF36 3YN Tel: 01656 782362
FINDING SPACE Regular articles appear about de-cluttering our lives. Somehow by having a tidier home, garage or shed our lives will be improved. Indeed successful businesses have been built from supplying perfect shelves, cupboards and storage boxes from bespoke merchants to pound shops. How often do we turn our attention to noticing how much clutter we have stored in our own minds? Me! My head is not full of such stuff, my brain takes care of that when I go to sleep and reorders it logically so I can find it again easily. Maybe true, but also nestling there are the old embarrassing memories, irritations, failures and defeats, you know the ones, that you would rather forget, but they pop into your mind when you are drifting off to sleep or relaxing running on an interminable loop that you can’t break. Next time this happens, take notice of the thought, how it makes you feel, maybe sad, angry or annoyed, where you can feel it, throat, chest and belly. Acknowledge the sensation and slowly take a deep breath into the area and gently let it go. Try this three times and notice how you feel. We can’t go into the past to change it, but we can choose to live in the present. Margaret Brown
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PUZZLES
Puzzle solution: Sudoku puzzle No. 5394 2021-07-20
Play sudoku online at:
Sudoku
Fill each cell of the grid so that each row, each column, and each 3 x 3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9 exactly once. No guessing is required – only simple logic is needed. Daily Sudoku puzzle No. 5414
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Word Search
Hint: Words can be found horizontally, vertically, diagonally and also backwards.
Paralympic Sports
Q L P S I C Y C L I N G B O U B K A S S L M M K
U W F C Y L A T H L E T I C S E F W O K P F S R
R O W I N G G A Z T T J Z G A J U D O K Y M S U
A I J V K S O L F L T S X Y X A L P R W N K V K
A N S O T G A S C S A I L I N G N T R L X E D Z
D I B O S Z L B E R P O V W A J C A L U F V H N
R L L D Z Y B B Y Y C A W C P N P L C J X J S Y
H A F C D T A G Z A Q G H V T Y W Z P J R A T W
D D W H E E L C H A I R B A S K E T B A L L B X
F R G C Q J L I Q K Z B X Y W P X R S J I X U O
O P H R G O B L V Y T C I V H R C M H R V N Y O
C I T Z O I B W S L P R U I P Z O L O W L I M H
I M F I H M F I I C W B K T E B D Y O K C F N C
X G S J S W I M M I N G V T A B L E T E N N I S
V F C G B D U W F W F Z O Q Y X K U I Y C O G V
S I T T I N G V O L L E Y B A L L N N M C W K C
R C L W Z Q Z U J H B K M O I M Y Q G S V A R O
P O W E R L I F T I N G B Q W P X V G Q I F X A
K B U U H V S Y V R G K V H U D D G K U N N A R
S Q D H A G R G I J N X P N N I L N I G V H U C
A M B X A T A Y V G Q P E Q U E S T R I A N Y H
A J C M M V D M G B S G V D S Y S O E L C T N E
M K G P Z R Z P X I C P Y Y F K Y H E M Z H L R
U T A V H L U S R I U W C J T F E J K A I Q G Y
Find the names of 16 Paralympic based sports: TABLETENNIS SWIMMING SITTING VOLLEYBALL SHOOTING WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL TABLE TENNIS - SWIMMING - SITTING - VOLLEYBALL - SHOOTING - WHEELCHAIR ROWING POWERLIFTING JUDO GOALBALL EQUESTRIAN CYCLING ATHLETICS
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2021-08-09 AugustMedium Answers level
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NEWS SAY HELLO TO DILWYN THE SEA MONSTER Work on the £6.4m scheme to protect Porthcawl from coastal flooding is ongoing, and contractors Knights Brown have come up with an innovative way of explaining what is happening out at the Western Breakwater to young children who may be curious about the project. They’ve recruited Dilwyn, a friendly but lonely sea monster who spends most of his time out at Tusker Rock, for a fun new cartoon which can be found at the Knights Brown website. The cartoon tells the story of how Dilwyn accidentally damages the breakwater by causing huge waves to crash against it every time he waves his tail, and how he makes a new friend who helps him to put the damage right. It’s a great way of engaging with young children and explaining what is happening at the breakwater, and is designed to encourage them to develop an interest in both engineering and environmental issues as they grow older. The work will ensure that the 19th Century breakwater can continue to stand up to the tides and tough maritime weather conditions, and will provide improved defences against flooding and any potential future rise in sea levels between the Eastern Promenade and Rhych Point. COUNCILLOR CHARLES SMITH Cabinet Member for Education and Regeneration Bridgend County Borough Council 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk
Deadline date for the October issue is: Wednesday 15th September
attend the Porthcawl Elvis Festival on 24-26 September will need to ensure that they can enjoy the occasion in a responsible manner. Take a Covid-19 test before attending so you can stay away and avoid infecting others if you test positive - order a free test from the Welsh Government website, visit a mobile testing centre or pick one up from a participating pharmacy. Although Wales is now at alert level zero and premises are able to operate with more flexibility, they will still have measures in place based on each venue’s risk assessment plans, so scaledback entertainment and limits on capacity should be expected as we all work together to keep people safe. COUNCILLOR HUW DAVID Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council Tel 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk
FIGHTING THE WAR ON WASTE Porthcawl recently became the first area in Wales to trial new high-tech litterbins that compress bulky waste to save space, and let council staff know when they are approaching capacity and need to be emptied. The new bins, which have been installed by the council and Keep Wales Tidy and are powered by solar energy, can store six times as much waste, including cigarette butts, and record data to provide a better understanding of waste habits. Following recent changes to the way that litterbin rubbish is collected and processed, all waste disposed of in public litterbins will now be fully recycled instead of being converted into energy or disposed of as landfill. Bridgend County Borough already has one of the top recycling rates in the UK, but this is set to rise even higher following a new contract with Derwen Recycling. We are also reviewing the locations of litterbins around the county borough, and have supported both the highly successful ‘Love It Don’t Trash It’ initiative and the establishment of new local litter hubs where volunteers can access equipment and supplies. If you would like to find out more about how the council and its partners deal with litter and recycling, visit www.bridgend.gov.uk COUNCILLOR HYWEL WILLIAMS Deputy Leader Bridgend County Borough Council Tel: 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk
Altaf Hussain MS|AS
CELEBRATE SAFELY AT THE ELVIS FESTIVAL With the Elvis Festival set to return to Porthcawl at the end of the month, visitors are being reminded that the corona virus pandemic is not yet over, and to make every effort to stay safe while celebrating. While many people will want to enjoy the festival after the difficulties of the last 18 months, the council, South Wales Police and Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board are jointly warning that people are still becoming seriously ill and are dying from Covid-19. Anyone who has booked tickets, travel or accommodation to 22 | seaside news
Member of the Welsh Parliament for South Wales West Aelod Senedd Cymru dros Gorllewin De Cymru altaf.hussain@senedd.wales www.altafhussain.org.uk
Cardiff Bay CF99 1SN 0300 200 7338
“The Senedd has powers over schools, the NHS, housing, roads, agriculture and the economy. Please contact me if I can help you” “Mae gan y Senedd bwerau dros ysgolion, y GIG, tai, ffyrdd, amaethyddiaeth a’r economi. Cysylltwch â mi os gallaf eich helpu chi.” The costs of this publication have been met by the Senedd Commission from public funds. Talwyd costau’r cyhoeddiad hwn gan Gomisiwn y Senedd, o gronfeydd cyhoeddus.
Email us your views info@seasidenews.co.uk
NEW PLAN FOR PORTHCAWL HOMES WILL CREATE PRESSURE ON HEALTHCARE People in Porthcawl are unhappy with plans outlined in the Draft Replacement LDP, which has been out to public consultation. Those causing the most concern are proposals to build over 1100 new homes on two sites – Sandy Bay and Salt Lake. It is unclear how many residential units – houses or apartments will be built on each but the overall impact of having this total number of additional dwellings will be great. Although it has been known for many years that plans were afoot to build on the old caravan park at Sandy Bay and also on Salt Lake car park, people worry about how local services will cope with an extra 4,000 or more residents. They point to the likely impact on already over-stretched health facilities. More GP’s, dentists and other healthcare professionals will be needed. There will be other effects like increased traffic on local roads, with a resultant negative effect on air quality, and pressure on school places. Borough Planners will now consider the objections lodged to their proposals and decide whether to amend them or not. DR ALTAF HUSSAIN Welsh Conservative Regional MS for South Wales West
WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER As the final flame flickered at the 2021 Olympic Games, Team GB could look back on another remarkable Games. Finishing 4th in the medal table is a huge achievement but this was no isolated success, GB hasn’t finished outside the top 10 in a Games since the 1990s. There were lots of great individual moments for Wales too, Lauren Price’s gold in boxing or Hannah Mills’ gold in sailing. Welsh athletes are proudly punching above their weight on the global stage, this is no coincidence. Those that seem desperate to rip our country apart with their calls for ‘independence’ fail to consider the wider ramifications this might have for sports people. Welsh sport benefits from unprecedented levels of funding from UK sport, allowing prospective athletes to focus solely on their sporting discipline. Many of them would not have been at the Games this summer without it. Not to mention the elite level coaches and facilities available across all sports. The ‘Union bonus’ for sport is clear. Sport will never be the be all and end all in the unceasing independence debate; but to borrow a phrase, sport is most certainly “the most important of the least important things.” TOM GIFFARD Welsh Conservative regional Senedd member for South Wales West
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NEWS LDP CONSULTATION MUST RE-OPEN THE Local Development Plan is currently being revised by BCBC and will provide a planning framework for the borough until 2033. That’s why it was crucial for people to take part in the council’s consultation, which has just ended. But it was a sham and I, backed by Porthcawl Town Council and others, have called on BCBC to re-open the consultation. I held my own public meetings on the LDP and was shocked to find that the majority knew nothing about the consultation. This failure is down to the way the council chose to conduct it. Instead of putting on exhibitions and events in public buildings as in the past, they decided to hold the consultation only online. Why? A windfarm development being proposed for the Maesteg area saw those developers stage six public engagement events where plans were on display and staff were on hand. If they could do it and comply with Covid restrictions, why not the council? Putting it only on-line excludes all those people who have no computers and also others who may have them but do not have the skills to fight their way through the 5,000 pages about the LDP posted on-line. JAMIE WALLIS MP for Bridgend
Email us your views info@seasidenews.co.uk
NEWS FROM THE MAYOR OF PORTHCAWL Level Zero at Last! Although we all need to be sensible recognising that Covid 19 is still out there. We can now start to see ‘the new normal’, opening up for our tourism and other businesses as we welcome record numbers of visitors to Porthcawl. Campsites are open as are attractions both in and around Porthcawl and those within easy reach of visiting ‘staycationers’. New to Porthcawl are the open top bus and the recently launched road train affectionately named ‘Lucie’ both of which provide a fun way of seeing what Porthcawl has to offer from Newton to Rest Bay. It’s great to see Kenfig Nature Reserve moving forward. I had the opportunity to attend the open day and hear the exciting plans that are on offer at this fantastic facility, which is on our doorstep. We can all do our bit in helping our town to re-build by supporting our shops and businesses across Porthcawl. Pubs, cafes and entertainment are all opening up and very keen to welcome you back. Buy-local has never been more important than it is now so, let’s get back to meeting friends over a pint or a coffee or booking a family meal out. COUNCILLOR TRACY HILL Mayor of Porthcawl
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SCHOOLS PORTHCAWL COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL - GCSE’S
PORTHCAWL COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL - RESULTS
Porthcawl Comprehensive School was delighted to be able to distribute results to students at GCSE. These results are the outcome of the unique and most challenging set of circumstances for students and staff. We are thrilled that students have reached, and in most cases exceeded, their potential. Students have had their endeavour rewarded with some amazing results. There is a large debt of gratitude for teachers who have worked so hard once again this year and for parents who have supported their sons and daughters. Excellent results truly reflect the effective partnership between a school, its learners and the support from home. In these remarkable circumstances, we are proud of the integrity and thoroughness of the centre determined grades that are reflected in these fantastic results. These excellent results will help Porthcawl students to unlock their potentially wonderful futures. Congratulations to staff and students for their hard work and steadfast dedication in the most difficult of circumstances. We will be expecting around 75% of our current Year 11 to return to our Sixth Form. We realise that this has been a very anxious time and our staff will be available to discuss options going forward. A number of students from other schools have expressed an interest in our school and we look forward to meeting and greeting them in September. If anyone is interested in post 16 education at our school, please email an enquiry to info@porthcawlschool.co.uk Andrew Slade, Head Teacher
PCS was delighted to be able to distribute results to students at AS and A2 and GCSE. These results are the outcome of the unique and most challenging set of circumstances for students and staff. We are thrilled that students have reached, and in most cases exceeded, their potential. Students have had their endeavour rewarded with some amazing results. There is a large debt of gratitude for teachers who have worked so hard once again this year and for parents who have supported their sons and daughters. Excellent results truly reflect the effective partnership between a school, its learners and the support from home. In these remarkable circumstances, we are proud of the integrity and thoroughness of the centre awarded grades that have helped to shape these fantastic results. Incredibly this year we have five pupils off to study Medicine, with our Head Boy Jonathan Munro heading to St Edmund Hall, Oxford. Lucia Brown is off to UCL, Sophia Edwards to Keele and Chloe Wyatt and Joshua Audsley go to Cardiff University. Noah Henderson goes to Bristol University to study Aerospace Engineering and Charlotte Robinson has secured a rare place to read Architecture at Cardiff University. Mackenzie Randle has secured a much sought after apprenticeship in Surveying based in Bristol. Pupils have won places in universities such as Kings and Imperial College London, up north to Durham, York, Leeds, Manchester and Birmingham, and south to Exeter, Plymouth and Portsmouth and all points in between! Good luck to you all! Andrew Slade, Head Teacher
26 | seaside news
Email us your report to: info@seasidenews.co.uk
ST CLARE’S SCHOOL
St Clare’s has been in the top 5% of top-performing A-Level schools in the UK since 2018 and this year’s A-Level results were outstanding yet again with 61.4% A*/A grades, 86.4% A*/B grades, and 100% first-choice universities despite a second year’s challenging lockdown circumstances. 100% pass rate across all subjects highlights the school’s strength in both academic and creative fields. Huge congratulations to straight A* students: Theo Quantick, Amelia Jenkins and Carys Lock. Ben Fodor, Darcy BuchananBurbidge, Emily Smith and Kym Zhang were also among the high achievers. Our GCSE Class of 2021 made us so proud with 56.8% at Grade 7+ (A*/A) and over 99% of grades awarded at 4+ (A*/C). 31.2% of all grades were 8 or 9, with a 9 equivalent to A** denoting exceptional performance. Congratulations to our GCSE star performers who were Macy Campbell, Carolina Marques, Ella Mugford and Izzy Lindley. St Clare’s students reaped the benefit of our Remote Learning Programme, which delivered an uninterrupted education with pastoral support during lockdown with a fully interactive, structured timetable of virtual lessons. The admissions window for September 2022 is now open. Visit www.stclares-school.co.uk to find out more, or call our friendly Admissions Team on 01656 789966. Helen Hier, Head Teacher Photo caption: St Clare’s celebrate excellent results again
SEPTEMBER NEWS FROM CYNFFIG The last couple of weeks have been extremely busy and exciting. We have welcomed our Year 7 pupils to Cynffig, enjoyed International Literacy Day, Roald Dahl Day, the European Day of Languages and an Art Gallery visit. Following their A level results our Year 13 students 2021 have secured places in Universities across the country and we are extremely proud of all of their achievements. Particular mention must go to Joe Powell who achieved an outstanding set of results with A* grades in Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics and the Welsh Baccalaureate. Joe is now studying Physics at Oxford University’s Jesus College, one of the world’s leading universities committed to ‘attracting the brightest minds’. We are also extremely proud of our Year 11 pupils 2021 who following their confirmed GCSE grades have returned to sixth form, or moved on to college, apprenticeships, traineeships and employment. Amongst the very many achievements we’d like to congratulate Madison Jones who returned to sixth form after achieving 11 A*s and 1 A, and Tom Gardiner who secured a scholarship to join Bristol Bears and Clifton College. We wish all of you the very best for the future.
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POEMS
Email us your poem info@seasidenews.co.uk
LEFT IN THE COLD
MEMORY BOX
Now you have been praised and applauded, Appreciated and will not be forgotten. When you are tired and weary When evening comes, your body can rest Knowing the next day will be the same. You did not ask for a reward or a prize, Only the right not to be left in the cold. So easily forgotten, Words barely touching the ground, Promises left in another country. It is cold here in this place of praises, Praises do not feed the hungry Or give warmth or shelter. It would have been kind after all this time To remember the beginning. Does it seem so far away That it no longer means anything to you now. It is cold now, and your praises have turned old too. Malcolm Price, Porthcawl
How uplifted we feel when the sun comes out On a warm sultry summers day, And the air smells sweet from the blossoms around, You hear laughter from children at play. How wonderful to feel this contentment inside, Brought about from these simple pleasures, And so easy to add to our memory box, Life has many of these amazing treasures. So when you wake up and the day is grey, Don’t forget your memory box, Think of those moments that lifted you up, And clear those self-imposed locks. Marilyn Cook, Bridgend
NEW RUNNING SHOES As I bend down to tie the lace, So many running roots to trace As pulling tight the tension grew Youth’s live mountain spring renew.
FAR OUT Over the channel and crashing sea, Years roll out to the distant coast, Cloaked in a timeless mystery. A ship turns slowly in the mist, Echoing down the halls of memory.
Tangible times tease - ego’s pride to please, As into laps, in brand new daps, we ease. Our digits in the toe box squeeze Hope’s bright adventure now we seize.
Far out A muffled foghorn blows And turns the ship about. A page of Life is turned, in some woody hollows, Years stretch out In healing, timeless sorrows.
We offer up a motion prayer, As limbs go floating in the air Then as we settle in somehow, We are present - in the now.
Snow on Exmoor lifts the spell, Our spirits raised, ‘cross the sea we gaze, Brightening up the pages left to tell. Words, like windows open on fine days, Or recited in a dewy dell, Distil into a waking dream The pull of the sea and its sleepy swell. Sally Richards, Porthcawl
So eating up the ground we feel, The simple pleasure of that meal Weightless dreams go floating by No need to ask us why we try?
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It’s friends like you keep her heart beating With your caring and your sharing And in helping one another As we journey through each day For we may be growing older But we’re growing wiser, stronger And we’re learning from each other As in all we learn to pray And we’re thanking God for Stoneleigh For our meeting and our greeting And our helping one another Climbing mountains on our way And yes, there may be partings Yet we won’t allow for grieving For though we may feel sorrow Yet your love is here to stay You have been God’s gift from heaven And yes, we’re trusting, and believing In His word to us that Jesus Is our Life, our Truth, our Way. Pauline Lewis, Porthcawl
PICTURE POSTCARD As we walked out along the shore, Our eyes were drawn across the bay. Clear blue skies and a blazing sun Made it a perfect summers day The tide was low, its ebb complete, It made the golden beach seem vast Fine footsteps printed in the sand Echoed those folk who had walked past. That special moment said it all, You simply can’t take it away. That perfect image filled our minds, A picture postcard of our day. Judy Dee, Porthcawl
Recaptured youth - we’ve found a portal A gateway to and from immortal And at the finish line - Amen, Our soles renewed - we go again. Wilfy Edwards, Porthcawl Runners
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seaside news | 29
FEATURES CHOOSING A PUPPY CLASS
STUDENTS – CAN YOU TAKE THE LEAD?
I would consider a Puppy class to be essential education, not just for the puppy, but also for the whole family and you’ll learn so much more than just obedience cues. As Dog Training is an unregulated industry, it’s wise to research and do your homework. Here’s a few helpful tips; Check out the APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers), IMDT (Institute of Modern Dog Trainers) and ABTC (Animal Behaviour and Training Council). The first two hold assessments which covers theoretical knowledge and practical experience in great depth. They also have a code of practice and ethics which state that no harmful methods shall be used which makes training fun, safe and family friendly. Ask the trainer about their training methods. It’s a lot easier now to find fear free, kind, ethical, science-based trainers that don’t use ‘traditional’ punishment based, old fashioned methods. If they use words like ‘fun’, ‘games’, ‘rewards’ or ‘building a bond’, then great! Ask if you can attend and observe a class, this way you’ll find out if they practice what they preach. Look for happy puppies with their happy guardians. The pups should be working quietly with their handlers in a calm environment. I always welcome people that want to check out my classes to make sure I’m the right fit for them. Check out the trainers teaching skills too. Are they clear with their instructions, do they go around the class giving individual guidance and feedback to all the handlers and are they happy, enthusiastic and professional? Is there a teaching assistant and enough trainers to give all attendees personal time? Ideally there should be 6-8 pups/dogs with 1 trainer and an assistant, any more should have an extra assistant. Any trainer should be skilled at reading canine body language, this is important for predicting interactions and redirecting any inappropriate behaviours. A trainer should be prepared for the class they’re about to teach, lesson plans, extra rewards, different toys, a box of calming enrichment toys and chews, spare long lines, leads, harnesses and any equipment for that particular class. My next Essential Puppy Power UP Course starts 18th September. This includes: 6 weekly classes, goody bags, Puppy Vault of training videos with text, private FB support group with extra resources being provided if necessary, graduation certificate and rosette. . Julie Williams APDT IMDT South Wales Dog Training Academy
Are you a student or young person with the energy and drive to add high-profile project management to your CV? Guide Dogs marks its 90th anniversary this year and needs someone to take the lead in co-coordinating this year’s Guide Dogs Appeal. The project runs until the end of October and involves the planning, promotion, administration and co-ordination of a minicampaign to raise awareness and funds to support people with sight loss. This year’s appeal will focus on St David’s Shopping Centre in Cardiff, where Guide Dogs’ staff, volunteers, dogs and puppies will make regular appearances to meet the public. As the Guide Dogs Appeal Fundraising Ambassador, you’ll liaise with local businesses, schools and individuals who are running their own fundraising events, and will welcome your help in organizing posters and publicity. Jacquie Hughes-Jones of Guide Dogs said: “This is a rare opportunity for a student or young person aged 18-plus to prove they can manage a stand-alone project or mini-campaign for a national charity. It will be an eye-catching addition to a CV, and a chance to meet some of the cutest and cleverest canines around.” To find out more, visit www.guidedogs.org.uk/how-you-canhelp/volunteering-for-guide-dogs Or ring Jacquie Hughes-Jones on 07919 228635. Caption: Trainee guide dog Enya
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THROUGH CHRISTIAN EYES After this last season of lockdown, this month I felt God prompting me to write briefly about loneliness. Loneliness has been called ‘the great modern sickness of the soul’. Loneliness can be a terrible thing and those who have experienced it know how bad it can be. I want to encourage all those who feel lonely by saying that Jesus wants to come close to you. Take this message as if from him and not merely from me. I guess it would be worth clarifying that Jesus is certainly alive and real today, and that He knows all about how you feel. Turn to Him and allow Him to help you in that area. There are many, many people who have been right where you are and have found rest, comfort and healing in knowing God. God is the one who makes our lives complete and that is certainly something that every person needs. No one has it all figured out. A prayer to pray: Lord, I want to turn to you and know your presence in my life, which makes me whole. Help me to give it all over and find rest in you. NEIL HARVEY Through Christian Eyes
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TRINITY CHURCH We were delighted that our Church Council agreed at a recent meeting that singing could be reinstated during our services. We still have to sing quietly and wear masks but singing to our church organ felt really special during recent services. Sunday mornings are beginning to return to normal! Our Messy Church for the youngsters continues to be suspended. However the team has created activity packs for the children and these were distributed at the beginning of August. Children are encouraged to email their pictures, which can then be displayed in the hall. We held a farewell service for Reverend Rachel Wheeler last month. She was one of the Ministers in our Bridgend United Area who has left for pastures new and we thanked her for her devotion and support. We continue to hold a live Zoom service for those who prefer to join from home. Recordings via email or CD are also available. The Trinity Bargain Store operates on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday mornings, weather permitting. All proceeds are in aid of “Action for Children” and Trinity. Activities in the church hall have started to resume with strict Covid safety guidelines. Please contact our bookings secretary for further details. Group numbers are limited and kitchen/toilet facilities are not available. Please visit our Facebook page or website for any further information. Alison Meredith Thomas Communication Secretary www.trinitychurchporthcawl.org
PYLE & KENFIG VETERANS RNLI DONATION
SO WHAT IS A VOICE FOR THE FUTUREPORTHCAWL? By now you’ve probably heard all about Porthcawl’s Waterfront Regeneration; the most exciting opportunity to reshape Porthcawl in decades. Or not? You see BCBC released the LDP back in May outlining the needs of the town. But out of the entire Borough, around 150,000, there were only 1500 responses. It was this lack of communication with the residents of Porthcawl that led a few of us to query what was going on and subsequently create this group- A Voice for the FuturePorthcawl. Our agenda is simple. We understand that some 900 houses may have to be built in the town but we are here to fight for the right to retain and develop Salt Lake Car Park for the community and future generations - with sustainability, the environment and mental and physical wellbeing at the centre of all decisions. We want to be part of creating a central hub that becomes a real destination. Somewhere full of energy and innovation that not only attracts visitors and draws them into the town but is so buzzing and current that it engages the locals and, crucially, stimulates the young. Houses are needed. But Salt Lake, with its unique positioning and breathtaking views, needs to be so much more than a housing estate. Wouldn’t it be better to have an indoor/outdoor cultural area; flexible community units; dynamic pump track. Changing facilities for all you cold water enthusiasts. Sprinkler park....trees; space for new initiatives to organically develop into something amazing. What is it you would like to see there? Hopefully this group can help become a platform to elevate your ideas and create a Porthcawl we can be proud of. We meet every Thursday to discuss the future of this site. We’d love your views! And we’ll post an update here every month. Please join us to give a voice for the Future-Porthcawl!
LALESTON WI
Porthcawl RNLI lifeboat’s fundraising team were delighted to have a visit from Pyle & Kenfig veterans golf society on Sunday 8 August to make a cheque presentation for £360. The funds were raised during their Cotswold’s tour and will go towards saving lives at sea here at Porthcawl RNLI lifeboat station.
Members of Laleston WI met for lunch at The Globe, Porthcawl on 12th August, it was so nice for us all to see each other after so long. No arrangements have been made yet for our monthly meetings as we need to know the arrangements for the hall. We are hoping to have another lunch in September with the hope of getting back to some kind of normality. Diane Marshall, President
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FEATURES KENFIG NATURE RESERVE MONTHLY UPDATE
Well, the Tractor is back! We are very pleased to announce that through team effort and amicable negotiations Kenfig Nature Reserve has its Tractor back…alongside some other very useful tools and equipment. This is very good news as it enables out warden and our lovely volunteers to carry out the necessary maintenance work throughout the Dunes. Forthcoming events include: * Wedding Fayre on Saturday 11th September. * Our Wardens Wild Walk will be taking place on Saturday 25th September. It starts at 10am and will finish around 12.30. If you are interested just come along to the Reserve Centre where Chris will be waiting to meet you. * On Saturday 2nd October join us for all things Fungi. As it is UK Fungus day, we will be running 2 fungi forays to search for the rare and exciting fungi that can be found at the Reserve. The event starts at 10am and will finish at 3pm. * Pleased to be able to confirm that on Sunday 3rd October there is going to be a Farmers Market! * The Greedy Pig will be making more regular visits to the Reserve on the weekends from 11th September onwards. * The Hyde Out will be celebrating its first anniversary at the Reserve in October so well done Emma! Toilets now open at the reserve 7 days a week between 10am and 4pm, big thanks to Cornelly Community Council for their assistance in making this happen. On a less positive note, we are sadly receiving an increasing number of complaints about dog fouling at the Reserve. We have recently purchased additional bins, which will be installed in the next couple of weeks, and dog bags are available at the Centre. So please, please, please, can you pick up after your dog when you visit us so that everyone can enjoy a clean and mess free site. Leading on from this Kenfig Nature Corporation are currently going out to public consultation to find out what is important to people who visit the Reserve, it is really important to us that we get your feedback. There is a survey on our website, but if you prefer a more direct approach, please feel free to place your ideas/concerns and general thoughts in the suggestion box in the reception area or just email direct to clerk@kenfignaturecorporation.com. Finally, I just wanted to apologise and admit that I made a faux pas in my last article, which should have referred to our talented and very helpful decorators as C M P Decorators. If you are interested in hiring any of the rooms at Kenfig Nature Reserve or would like information about anything, please contact Ceri or Chris on 01656 530089.
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A DAY OUT - AT LAST! Thirty Bridgend Soroptimists were delighted to be able to enjoy a summer outing at last. On 28th July Members visited Llantrisant Guild Hall and Museum with local historian and author Dean Powell. Dean is well known for his journalistic experience and was able to bring the history of Llantrisant to life. Afterwards they enjoyed a delicious socially distanced tea in the local Church Hall. This occasion was the first time they could meet up face to face. The club has continued throughout the Pandemic to hold their monthly meetings on Zoom, which has proved vital in keeping everyone connected in this difficult time. For more information on follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ BridgendSoroptimists SI Bridgend website: sigbi.org/bridgend-and-district Eileen Bayley Publicity/Communications Officer Soroptimist International Bridgend
AGE UK SEEKS STOCK It’s been a busy few months for the Age UK shop located at Porthcawl and we’re calling out to people in the local area to donate their unwanted items to help keep our shelves stocked. Since reopening we have enjoyed welcoming back local residents and we’ve been overwhelmed by the fantastic support from the community. Customers old and new have visited the Age UK Porthcawl shop helping to boost sales and providing us with an extraordinary amount of donations, for which we are extremely grateful. However, we need those donations to keep coming and we urgently need quality goods such as clothing and accessories, gifts, toys, household items and shoes. The Corona virus pandemic put a huge strain on charities, with Age UK’s services facing unprecedented demand when the crisis began and the impacts continue to be felt. All items help raise vital funds for the Charity’s work and services supporting older people. This includes Age UK’s Information and Advice, and Friendship services, which are a lifeline for those who have no one else to turn to. That’s why we are urging the people of Porthcawl and surrounding area to donate their unwanted, quality items to the Age UK Porthcawl shop. Donations can be maximised by signing up to gift aid. That extra money doesn’t cost a penny and helps us raise more valuable funds for people in later life. Rhiannon Llewellyn Shop Manager, Age UK Porthcawl
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PORTHCAWL LIONS Sadly our Sandcastle Competition was twice postponed by the weather, but hopefully by the time you read this there will be some winners and pictures to put on our website. We are also looking to run a Car Treasure Hunt in early September, introducing visitors and reminding locals of some of the wonders to be seen within easy driving distance of our town. Check website and Facebook page for details. We are also looking ahead to our Christmas regulars , Santa’s Grotto, Fun Run and other ideas. Unfortunately the obstacles to Summer fundraisers - distancing, loss of venues, facilities - seem to have beaten us this year but we are at least meeting again and exchanging ideas. Age is also a factor - two of our founder members from 1980 are still among our most active members - and we really would welcome anyone seeking new outlets post-covid supporting local causes and community activities in company with good friends. Anyone interested please contact Sue at suemcarey@hotmail.com
WELCOME TO PORTHCAWL
NATIONAL COASTWATCH INSTITUTION – PORTHCAWL During July (another record-breaking month for us) we had 27 monitored and 15 logged incidents. These involved kayakers and paddleboarders in difficulty, missing children, a missing dog, swimmers caught in a rip, a fishing vessel in difficulty and a broken-down yacht. We logged and monitored 140 commercial vessels, 2575 leisure, 1 military and 44 other types. 372 hours watchkeeping were completed. We have recently seen a number of new cruise ships in the Bristol Channel. Two are operated by Saga Cruises, the Spirit of Discovery and her sister ship, the Spirit of Adventure. Both vessels, using Portbury Docks, were on their maiden voyages following a layup due to Covid and are currently engaged in the UK cruising market. Another, smaller, ship was the Hebridean Princess. This luxury vessel uses Cardiff Docks and is normally engaged in the Scottish market, but due to Covid restrictions, has made the decision to relocate to southern waters for a few months. HM The Queen has in the past chartered the vessel on a few occasions for a holiday cruise around the Scottish Islands. It’s quite unusual to see the ship in Welsh waters, but a welcome sight! Nick Weedon, Media Officer Porthcawl NCI
TOOLS FOR SELF RELIANCE
As we gradually come out of the pandemic and life begins to return to some sort of normality, the team of volunteers looking after the iconic flower boat on the entrance to Porthcawl along the A4106 (Bridgend Road) has also been doing its bit for the community. The pretty little boat is a small but heartfelt gesture in support of all those who have helped others during the pandemic but it’s always a truly a big welcome to our town. This year, in particular, the display is dedicated to the memory of Jean Thomas. Just as with Porthcawl’s Covid Strategy Group, the iconic flower boat could not be maintained without the support of the many organisations and individuals behind the scenes including:Claire Daymond and Mel Howells from BCBC Green Spaces who donated the plants; Cllr. Les Tallon-Morris from PTC, Kerry Williams from Positive Lifestyles and Jonathan Thomas lead volunteer of maintenance, who all planted up the boat. The boat comes under the overall auspices of Sustainable Wales - South Wales’ oldest environmental charity that also run SUSSED - the dedicated Fairtrade shop by the bandstand in town. Saulat Abbasi
We are back to normal or as normal as we can be, making kits of lovingly refurbished tools. We had nine kits completed by the end of July. We took a break through August, starting again this month. We sometimes get reports from Africa showing the tools being used, as we are usually unable to read the information on the crates in the photographs we decided to add a Welsh daffodil so we can spot our crates more easily. We were going to use a welsh dragon but apparently the image of a dragon is not well received in Africa. The nine crates of tools in the photograph contain tools and only tools for carpentry, building, automotive, leather working, electrical repair etc. If you are donating tools to the workshop please make sure there is nothing else included such as, screws, nails, nut and bolts, brackets, sink taps, wire, scissors, broken items etc. Anything other than tools has to be disposed of; this is a drain on time and effort. We do appreciate the tools you have kindly donated as we could not function without them. Thank you for your help, David Cook Workshop Manager seaside news | 33
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HISTORY MEET MY ANCESTORS John Howe, my 6 x great grandfather, was baptised on 24 July 1726 in St Hilary, Glamorgan. His father Joseph died on 5 July 1742, so sixteenyear-old John helped his mother Elizabeth run the family farm. In 1753, John became a churchwarden, Petty Constable and Overseer of the Poor. As Overseer of the Poor, John made a payment of £1 17s 6d for the making and binding of Bibles, and 1s for attending a coroner’s inquest. He also awarded payments of a few pence to ‘the little boy of whom nothing else is known’. The pivotal period of John’s life arrived in April and May 1761. On 3 April 1761 he married thirty-nine-year-old Mary Williams, a widow, also of St Hilary. Then his first son, John, my 5 x great grandfather, was born on 28 April 1761. That’s right, Mary was eight months pregnant at the time of her marriage. On 1 May 1761 John’s mother, Elizabeth, died aged 62. A marriage, birth and death within four weeks. A very stressful time for John. John died on 23 February 1818, aged 91. For the time, he led a privileged life. And through his family, farm and community activities I sense that it was a rewarding life. Hannah Howe, international bestselling author https://hannah-howe.com Image: John’s ledger, 1753.
THE COFFINS OF NEWCASTLE, PART 2 Last month we met Walter Coffin, local Bridgend businessman and now we find his son, also Walter Coffin. Born in 1784, he was educated at Cowbridge Grammar School and joined his father’s tannery business. At the age of 24, he decided to prospect for coal on a site in Dinas Rhondda owned by his father. Having established the first deep mine in South Wales he had to commission a tramway to get his coal – known as ‘Coffin’s Coal’ to the Glamorgan Canal to transport it to the coast and then travel the country to create a market for the coal. His determination paid off and he became extremely wealthy. On his father’s death in 1812 he had moved, with his mother and sisters to Llandaff Court in Cardiff. He never married and his mother was reputed to have said, of his total absorption in his colliery and in coal – “Walter has married a black wife’. He was a founding director of the Taff Vale Railway Company, later its chairman and a Justice of the Peace and Alderman in Cardiff. In 1852 he was elected Liberal MP for Cardiff and served, uneventfully, until giving up his seat in 1857. He died, aged 83, in 1867. Ian Price Bridgend & District Local History Society
PORTHCAWL LEVEL CROSSING
The Western Mail reported on 11th August 1937 that the Porthcawl Urban District Council had contacted the Great Western Railway asking that the level-crossing in the centre of town be abolished and the station be removed from near the sea front, to which it was transferred during the Great War, to its old position in South Road or some suitable site north of New Road. Traffic congestion in John Street and New Road, resulting from the crossing gates being shut to road traffic for long periods, had brought many letters of protest from motorists. On Bank Holiday 55 excursion trains had run into Porthcawl and the consequent shunting had held up motor cars several times for as long as 30 minutes. So strong had been the demand for the abolition of the crossing that the council had felt bound to act. The Great Western Railway responded issuing a proposed development scheme, which included new sidings at the back of Railway Terrace (Hillsboro Place), the filling in of the old five-acre dock and the doubling of the line from Pyle at a cost of £100,000. It did not provide for the removal of the level crossing, where it has been in existence for 80 years. Ceri Joseph
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FINANCE DOES YOUR PENSION NEED A NEW HOME? We would be happy to give a prize to anyone who could tell us how many personal pension providers exist in the UK today. It’s not just the ones that are active today as there are far more that are inactive or closed and have been taken over or merged. We’ve all heard of the blockbuster companies like Prudential, Aviva, Legal & General, Old Mutual that are currently active on the pension scene. But whatever happened to companies like Pearl Assurance, National Provident, Guardian, Eagle Star, Sun Alliance, Cornhill, Target, Abbey Life, Allied Dunbar, Royal, Canon, Laurentian, Hambro Life, Britannic, National Mutual, Clerical Medical, Co-op, Sentinel, Equitable Life, London Life, Hill Samuel, Scottish Life, Scottish Amicable, Lloyds Life and many more…do you have a pension plan with any of these? The companies that have closed to new business or merged with others still hold your pension funds and probably in an oldfashioned contract which could contain high charges and need close examination. You may be better off moving these policies to a newer style plan or combining with what you have already. The purpose of this is simply to have one source of funds to manage and control before and after retirement. Lots of small pension pots will cost more to administer and certainly be a headache when you eventually retire so having someone review your plans could be quite a valuable exercise. Some traditional plans can carry guarantees so be careful not to move funds without taking advice from a qualified advisor who would have professional indemnity insurance to safeguard the advice given. You might have stopped paying into some of these plans years ago and possibly moved house several times so the companies in question may not be able to find you to pay you what you are owed. The FCA can help you trace closed companies but it can be hard work. If you would like assistance in tracing pension assets let us know. PHILIP VAUGHAN Director at Abacus Assurance Financial Services Ltd Porthcawl 01656 772222
RATES STILL FALLING – FOR YOUNG AND OLD At the time of writing, one mortgage lender has just reduced borrowing to the lowest rate anyone can remember @ 0.89% with a 40% deposit. Those who are fortunate to have substantial equity in their properties can, if they meet other criteria, enjoy a remortgage at this interest rate. Indeed right across the board rates have never been lower and even 5 year fixed rates are ridiculously low so now’s the time to get your affairs in order, as rates can’t go a whole lot lower, surely? If the Bank of England follows through on its initial thoughts about raising the base rate to around 0.25% after Christmas due to the UK’s strong business figures, then you could be glad that you fixed now. Yet it’s not just younger people who are enjoying mortgages at these historic lows, as those in the retired sector see the interest rates drop on the kinds of borrowing that they use, primarily interest-only retirement borrowing. We have just carried out a remortgage for a couple in their eighties whose interest rate, 38 | seaside news
7.79%, was set some 12 years ago, at what was competitive at that time. We secured a new deal for them at an incredible rate of just 3.22%, fixed for life, and saved many thousands in interest going forward. This isn’t the only deal of this nature that we have secured – we do this on a weekly basis, little wonder we get calls virtually every day from new Clients who have either been recommended to us or are looking coming to us for our experience in this specialist sector. Every year, as a nudge to you to get matters sorted for the better, we offer a free Will and this year is no different. So for all mortgage cases and Later Life Borrowing cases that we arrange for clients until the end of September 2021, we not only sort your finances but also help you organise other important areas of your financial and legal arrangements, all Wills prepared by fully qualified specialists who work in this area every day. Just call us on 01656 782545 or 07768 418308 for an informal chat – we’re ready and waiting to help. PAUL FIELDING Dragon Financial 01656 782545 / 07768 418308
FUNERAL PLANS VERSUS PERSONAL SAVINGS Planning for your funeral is increasingly viewed as a positive thing to do. Making provisions for the future can help save your family from financial stress at a very difficult time and protect them from the potentially crippling impact of unexpected funeral expenses. Unfortunately, the economics of saving privately for your funeral make less and less sense, hit by the double whammy of rising funeral prices and falling interest rates. The SunLife (2021), Cost of Dying Report highlights the sad fact that funeral prices keep on rising – by 128% since their first report in 2004. They found that the average cost of a basic funeral had reached £4,184 in 2020. The report also shows although 65% of people made some financial provision for their funeral, only two thirds of that group had put aside enough to cover the whole cost. With forecasts that the average cost of a basic funeral will rise past £5,000 within five years, the problem of funeral funding shortfalls could be made worse by historically low interest rates on ISAs and savings accounts. So, what is the alternative for people wanting to make proper provision for the future? Unlike savings, funeral plans fix the costs of your funeral director’s services at today’s prices. This guarantees that there will be nothing more to pay for these services, no matter how much the price of funeral director services rise. With a range of options available to suit all budgets, including green options, you’ll have the reassurance of knowing all of their costs are covered. Putting money aside in a regular savings account beats making no provision. However, if you would like to consider alternative options on this, or any other area of financial planning, please don’t hesitate to get in touch for a no obligation enquiry PHIL PROTHEROE Tavistock Partners [UK] Ltd 01656 771747/ 07859 129580
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APPOINTMENTS AT A TIME TO SUIT YOU, EVEN AT WEEKENDS – HOME VISITS Paul Fielding trading as Dragon Financial is an Appointed Representative of the On-Line Partnership Limited, which is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Think carefully about securing other debts against your home. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or any other debt secured against it.
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LEGAL SEPARATING FROM YOUR PARTNER
COHABITATION AGREEMENTS EXPLAINED We often hear the term ‘common law spouse’, however that is not a legal status. You are either married (or in a civil partnership) or not. If a relationship breaks down, being a ‘common law’ wife or husband does not give you the right to claim against your expartner for maintenance or a share of their assets. However, it may be possible for a parent to make a claim on behalf of a child they continue to look after. When couples are intending to co-habit then we advise them to consider preparing a cohabitation agreement. This agreement should provide financial protection for both parties to increase their sense of security and happiness within the relationship, and sadly in the event of the relationship breaking down. Financial issues are key to a cohabitation agreement. It should include: • What rights each partner has regarding property you live in, consideration will be given as to who owns the property or contributed more to its purchase price/mortgage, • Who owns other assets/ chattels/ furniture, savings, investments, • Who will continue to own the assets in the event of separation, • Who is responsible for any debts. • How expenses will be shared while you live together. • Where you have children, either jointly or with a previous partner, the cohabitation agreement should also address this. Some aspects may also need to be supported by legal documentation: for example, to ensure that your partner inherits in the event of your death, you should prepare Wills. A cohabitation agreement is a contract between you both. To be legally enforceable, it must have been made with the intention of having legal force - the agreement can say so. Even so, a cohabitation agreement may not be enforceable if it is unfair. To maximise the chances that it is enforceable, you and your partner should both take independent legal advice. You must also be open about your individual financial positions when you enter into the agreement. If you get married (or register a civil partnership), your cohabitation agreement might be taken into account by the court if you later divorce (or dissolve your civil partnership). It is good practice to review your cohabitation agreement every five years, or whenever there are any major changes in your circumstances - in particular, when a child is born. If you wish to discuss this further then please contact us.
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The role of a solicitor when you are separating from your partner People are often concerned at the cost of getting a solicitor involved in their case and think that by doing so they will complicate matters. It is important to take legal advice at an early stage after you separate from your partner. Despite what some people think, a good family lawyer will not try to turn an amicable split into an acrimonious one. Being well informed of your rights, responsibilities and the likely outcomes gives you the best information to help keep things from turning sour. It is best to take advice before entering into negotiations with your ex-partner. You may find you agree something that you’re happy with at the time, but if circumstances change you might not feel as happy later. A lawyer will help you consider the implications of different scenarios and may also suggest options you haven’t thought of, for example trying to resolve your difficulties via mediation. It can be very difficult to maintain a good relationship with an ex-partner if you are trying to backtrack from an agreement that you reached without legal advice. It is much better to know where you stand before you start those negotiations. Lawyers do not just help couples who are unable to reach an agreement. Sometimes clients do agree on the way forward, and they simply want lawyers to formalise that agreement or assist them with making an application for a clean break order – a binding order preventing either party from coming back for more money later on. It is important to remember that simply reaching an agreement about what will happen does not mean that you are protected in the future from a claim if your ex-partner changes their mind. However, if a lawyer draws up this agreement, you will have the best possible protection against a future claim. MADELINE RAND King Davies & Partners
• Wills, Trusts & Probate • Conveyancing • Property Law • Housing • Family Partner Mr. Ceri Morgan L.L.B
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WHITTINGHAMS
Garden level apartment, two bedrooms with en-suite shower rooms, sleeps six. Quiet location yet only a fifteen minute walk to the beautiful bastide town of Domme. Ideal for families with young children, large garden with safety pool and swing/slide combination. Take a look at the website:
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Tel: 07971 476738
SOLICITORS • CYFREITHWYR CONVEYANCING Moving House? We offer a friendly and efficient service at a fixed price with all the work carried out by a qualified Solicitor Contact Mike Greenway for more information and a written quotation WILLS & PROBATE Computerised Wills Service Wills prepared while you wait – only one appointment usually required Contact Mike Greenway for more information
Richard Deere House, 46C John Street, Porthcawl CF36 3BD Tel: 01656 788823 Fax: 01656 786781 Email: porthcawl@whittinghams.co.uk Web: www.whittinghams.co.uk Offices also at 5–7 Court Road, Bridgend CF31 1BE Tel: 01656 653485 Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority No0067119.
seaside news | 41
ARTS STAG’S WORLD OF ROCK
Email your article info@seasidenews.co.uk
PYLE & PORTHCAWL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY We’re a very friendly camera club with a mix of male & 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 join us, we usually meet on Thursday evenings at 7:30pm at St Clare’s School, Newton CF36 5NR but our meetings are currently suspended due to the Corona virus situation so we’re currently holding competitions etc. online instead. Our program is available at www.pyle-porthcawl-ps.co.uk Geoff Baker
Something To Crow About! What a comeback after the lifting off of lockdown for Bridgend rockers Those Damn Crows who, by the time you’re reading this, would have headlined a huge sellout concert at Cardiff Castle. If you did get a ticket you must have been lucky, as they had sold out in hours. The Crows, who are vocalist Shane Greenhall, guitarists Dave Winchurch and Ian “Shiner” Thomas, bassist Lloyd Wood and drummer Ronnie Huxford, have hit a chord with rock fans with their brilliant rock anthems. I’ve known the boys since the late 90s, when they were called Shirker, and I was touring in my own band at the same time, so it hasn’t been an overnight success! The lads have worked hard and their talent is reaping rewards. I’m really pleased, as they are grounded, and top guys too. I’ll keep you up to speed on their progress. In the meantime, keep your music news coming. Stag Marks 07549 728356 Photo: Those Damn Crows
A FILM MAKER’S POINT OF VIEW It is not unusual for work on a film to go off in a direction all of its own. This happened recently, on my Llandow Air Disaster film, when I came to deal with a part of the narrative referring to the loss of life suffered by the people of Llantarnam near Cwmbran. The centre of the tragedy for this particular village was the Greenhouse pub, whose landlord and several regulars died in the crash. The pub’s dartboard had some significance, but the one that now hangs on a wall in the bar looks modern, and could not pass for 1950. Fortunately, Andy Jones, Sales Manager of Winmau in Bridgend, which manufactures dartboards, kindly came to the rescue by donating one, minus its modern branding. And Patrick Chaplin, the darts historian, loaned me a set of brass darts typical of 1950, complete with feather flights. The scene was photographed in black & white in my studio in early August. When making a film, it is so important to try and get even the smallest detail right, and I am extremely grateful to Andy and Patrick for helping to make the shot possible. Anthony Hontoir Downwood Films 07510 934299 Picture: Anthony Hontoir (left) receives the dartboard from Andy Jones (Photo: Louise Jones) 42 | seaside news
DIRECTORY
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R.e.M
Recycling everything Metal
Do you have any of the following items that you no longer need? Washing machines, tumble dryers, cookers or any type of metal or electrical items, bric a brac. Along with postage stamps, foreign or old coins. All of the above items will be used to help S.C B.U. (Special Care Baby Unit) at the Princess of Wales Hospital Bridgend.
Please telephone/text Steve on: 07734 264732 Photographic I.D. carried at all times.
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STEVE WARNOCK
Plumbing • Heating • Gas Tel: 01656 786379 Mobile: 07505 530 813 Local Service
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A Fully Trained Technician will clean your oven and hob along with the door glass and oven racks, leaving your oven SPARKLING CLEAN & READY TO USE All Chemicals Are Non-Corrosive, NonCaustic & Fume Free! We clean Ovens, Extractor Fans, Microwaves, Barbecues etc.
JET WASHING ALSO AVAILABLE PATIOS, PATHS, DRIVES ETC. WHY KEEP PUTTING IT OFF? CALL MIKE TODAY ON
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David Ryan Roofing Safer, Better & Reliable Electrial Services A.M. Electrical can make your home a brighter space
Your Local and Friendly Electrician info@amelectrical.business
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All Roofs Repaired Velux Skylight fitted Slating & Tiling repairs Rubber Flat Roofs renewed Chimneys re-pointed. Chimney pots Lead valley & Flashing repairs uPVC Fascias & Guttering renewed Office: 01656 786336 Tel: 01656 782968 Mob: 07885 932468 www.davidryanbuilder.co.uk
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Contact Paul on: tel: 07931 891 704 or message us on our facebook page
seaside news | 43
GARDENING LALESTON GARDENING CLUB
Email your report info@seasidenews.co.uk beautiful creation. Details of our full programme, which includes visits to gardens, flower shows and festivals, will be given during enrolment. Just turn up on the night and have fun. For further information please ring 01656 222985 or consult our Facebook page. Alison Thomas, Club Secretary Porthcawl Floral Society
CEFN CRIBWR GARDENING CLUB
September the month of ‘mellow fruitfulness’ so harvesting continues, and any gluts of fruit and veg can be frozen, pickled or bottled for those winter months. Cold frames and greenhouses can be cleaned and readied for winter. Perennials can be split and the planting of bulbs can commence, but if your annuals are still going you might, with dead heading, make them last a little longer. Laleston Gardening Club is holding a Flower & Veg Festival on the weekend of the 4/5th September at Cliff Cottage, Laleston. We will be open at 10am until 4pm on each of the 2 days; there will be displays of flowers, veg, flower arranging, handicrafts, photography and art to demonstrate the skills of members of the Club. The Festival will mark our Club’s 50th Anniversary Year, having been first formed in 1971 and it now continues to flourish as a prominent part of the local community. There will be stalls and refreshments in the marquee, a raffle and much more. It’s free admission and we look forward welcoming visitors and members alike. We will be selling veg at the end of the festival so a chance to purchase some lovely produce. Do come along and support our Anniversary Year!
NEW START FOR OUR CLUB Put October 6th in your diary! We are delighted to announce the return of our Floral Society and hope to see all our existing members as well as some new faces. No experience is necessary and anybody looking for a new interest and expanding his or her social life would be very welcome. We meet on alternate Wednesdays at 7.30 pm. We have a monthly flower demonstration or speaker meeting, which alternates with a Practice night. We will be shown how to make a floral pumpkin display on October 20th and a Christmas wreath on November 17th. Our enrolment night will be held at Trinity church on Wednesday October 6th at 7.30 and Pat Llewellyn will give the floral demonstration. Our Pre-Christmas Open evening will also be held at Trinity on November 3rd and we are lucky to have Elizabeth Gordon as our demonstrator this year. All the floral displays are raffled at the end of the meeting so there is a chance to take home a 44 | seaside news
Goodbye August, Hallo September! There is clarity about September, on clear days the sun seems brighter and the sky more blue (beware of frosts later in the month!) Having coaxed your plants through the summer heat its time to get ready for the start of the next season (I can hear you saying “what already!”) Autumn is nearly upon us. Plant new perennials while the soil is still warm and moist enough for the plant roots to become established before winter also divide the perennials you have already got, this will keep them healthy and vigorous year after year and multiply your stock, fab two for the price of one! When harvesting sweetcorn, test first to see if its ready, pinch a kernel, if it releases a milky sap its ready, if its watery it needs a little longer and if its starchy - whoops you’re to late! Did you know sweetcorn is grown on every continent except Antarctica, and it always, always has an even number of rows, clever plant. Cut to foliage of maincrop potatoes at ground level three weeks before lifting, this prevents blight spores infecting the tubers and helps firm the skin of the potatoes – love em! Chris Early
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• • • • • •
Grass Cutting Hedge Trimming Tree Services Turfing Decorative Gravel Fencing
RELIABLE LOCAL SERVICE
Call Rhys Home: 01656 745560 Mobile: 07854 911166 Mobile: 07805 138819
Senior Men’s Squad
4th Sept Pyle RFC (H) 18th Sept Skewen RFC (A) 25th Sept Bridgend Sports RFC (H)
Senior Women’s Squad
5th Sept Morriston RFC (A) 12th Sept Tondu Titans (H) 26 Sept Talbot Reds (A)
Youth Squad
11th Sept Cwmavon RFC (H) 18th Sept Bridgend Athletic RFC (A) 25th Sept Bridgend Sports RFC (A)
Membership for the 2021/22 season is now available, Contact us for details. Ever considered volunteering? Whether you're a current player, someone who has hung up their boots or a person who has never picked up the oval ball, you could be a valued rugby volunteer. Whatever skills you can offer, we need you. Contact Tracey Williams for details.
porthcawlrfc.com T: 01656 784242
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Contact office: 01656 713800 Mob: 07780 728324 seaside news | 45
SPORT
High Tide: Larger Number (m)
Low Tide: Lower Number (m)
SEP OCT 2021
PENYBONT SLSC - TWILIGHTS AND TRAINING
TIDES
Pen y Bont SLSC juniors and open (18+) competitors have recently been competing in the regional Twilight series hosted by SLSA Wales. The Twilights were run on four Thursday evenings across July and August, with three events being run each evening. Pen y Bont was in the Bridgend section, and competed against Rest Bay SLSC and Sker and Pink Bay SLSC. The competitions were fun, non-scoring, and a great way to get back to racing on the beach after so long out due to Covid. Although the Twilight series was not competitive, it was great to see a good standard of fitness and racing from Pen y Bont members and this reflects lots of hard training that members have done during and since lockdowns. Meanwhile, the nipper section of Pen y Bont SLSC have been training lots on Saturday mornings at Ogmore by Sea. The training looks great fun and it’s refreshing to see everyone catching up with each other and enjoying time on the beach. Junior, senior and masters members have also been continuing voluntary patrols at Ogmore beach on weekends alongside the RNLI lifeguards. The patrols have been successful and vital during the hot weather, which has recently brought big crowds to Ogmore. Meriel Clode
SOUTHERNDOWN & OGMORE SURF REPORT Half way through the month of August and the surf has been small with a few days of choppy local swells pushing 2ft. It’s been breezy and grey in contrast to the previous months where we enjoyed some small 2ft – 3ft days with glorious sunshine. The crowds of people on the beaches have fluctuated with the weather. The busiest days have seen the River mouth Carpark completely jammed with cars parked up on the side of the lanes almost blocking passing. I wonder if by now more of the grass area needs to be tarmac. Can I also remind people not to play around the bottleneck area of the river mouth? When the tide turns to go out it is lethal there. The Lifeguards should man this area at this time of the tide every day. Also when the tide is up on the beaches stay away from the sides of a beach where currents can be worse in the direction of the tides. We have the 2nd biggest tides in the world in the Bristol Channel and our beaches are probably the most dangerous in the UK because of currents… we have the warmest waters in the UK by August. So be careful. David A Batten tuskasurf.co.uk 46 | seaside news
Tide Times are BST adjusted (so no need to add an hour!). The time you see above is correct
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