Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Issue 14 by Whitchurch and Llandaff Living

WHITCHURCH AND LLANDAFF

Living

At the heart of the community

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Issue 14 Aug / Sept ‘11

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Welcome

Welcome Croeso 3-4

News

Letters Letters to the Editors

Interview Dirty Sanchez’s Matthew Pritchard

Whitchurch Hospital A History of a Local Landmark

Through Time Llandaff North: Then and Now

New Faces Local business

Save Money Deals and Vouchers

Readers’ Room From the pens of local readers

Pets’ Page Your questions answered

Policing Cardiff Local updates

Backlash Musings of the editor

Welcome to your late summer edition of Whitchurch and Llandaff Living. We had several challenges getting this issue to print, namely in the form of computer hard drive failure. We back up our work regularly, but even that went! We lost all our work, all our emails and all our contacts. At one point, I was even considering using A4 paper and felt tip pens. We managed to get most of it back though, and we’ve put together a fantastic issue for you in the process. For starters, we spoke to Matthew Pritchard, of MTV’s Dirty Sanchez fame. He tells us of his time in school in Llandaff North, and how it ‘prepared’ him for a life of daring stunts and dangerous pranks. Whitchurch Hospital is an iconic landmark of Cardiff North, and one that we and many others, will have seen from a passing car or the top seat of a bus. The hospital is now over 100 years old. We chart its history from the 1900s to the present day. We are once again delighted to publish photographs from Steve Nicholas’s recent book - Whitchurch and Llandaff North Through Time. Llandaff North is the subject of our attentions this issue. Although a few things have changed, Llandaff North still remains a vibrant and busy suburb of North Cardiff. After listening to feedback from our readers, we are now running a readers’ page. We get a lot of submissions from readers and we feel that this is the perfect place to showcase local writing talent. In the current economic trend, we also thought it might be a good idea to publish vouchers for readers to use. We are very grateful to our local advertisers for the commitment they show to us. We in turn, do all we can to promote their businesses. If you fancy getting some money off or a great deal, simply cut out and use the vouchers inside. We’ve got some fantastic prizes too in this issue’s competitions. We’ve got free spa treatment from one of the UK’s top therapists, as well as a pair of tickets to the ever-popular Sound of Music at the Wales Millennium Centre. See you in October! Editors

Patric and Danielle

Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Editors/Advertising: Patric Morgan & Danielle Dummett Address: 222 Pantbach Road, Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 6AG Tel: 07772 081775 and 07974 022920 Email: editor@livingmags.co.uk Web: www.livingmags.co.uk Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 2

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors or omissions, or for any matter in any way arising from the publication of this material. Every effort has been made to contact any copyright holders.Whitchurch and Llandaff Living is an independent, apolitical publication.

Advertising booking and copy deadline for Issue 15 Friday 9th September 2011. Issue 15 publication date - early October. Whitchurch and Llandaff Living is published 5 times a year.

INSOLE COURT SECURES LOTTERY FUNDS Llandaff’s historic Insole Court has obtained a Lottery Grant that should enable them to put together formal proposals for £4m refurbishment programme. The Friends of Insole Court secured the £35,000, which will allow them to create a business plan. The document will include details of what they intend to do with the Victorian mansion. The total cost of the refurbishment is expected to reach £4m, but the Friends aim to create a community and visitor centre, with smaller outlying buildings being converted into a café. The stables will also be transformed into other activity arenas. Friends Chairman John PriorMorris said: “The Friends of Insole Court are delighted with the

LOCAL PUB CLOSES ITS DOORS

success of this application. I hope that this will secure the long-term future of the court that we have been campaigning for 20 years.” Should the next stage of the application process prove successful, responsibility of the development will be handed to the newly formed Insole Court Trust. Nigel Howells, the Council’s executive member for sport, leisure and culture, claimed receiving the initial £35,000 was “good news”.

CARDIFF AM BACKS CAMPAIGN TO SAVE HAWTHORN JUNIOR SCHOOL Cardiff North AM Julie Morgan is backing a campaign to save Hawthorn Junior School from being demolished. The historic Llandaff North school is under threat from the bulldozers but Julie Morgan has said that the destruction of the former Hawthorn Junior School would be an ‘irreplaceable loss on so many levels.’ The former Labour MP said: “Knowing Llandaff North and its

NEWS

residents as I do, I know how important this building is to the people of the area and I call upon Cardiff Council to explore every option to find an alternative to demolishing the building. “Many residents went to school in the building and have very strong ties to it. If taken down, it would be an irreplaceable loss – historically, architecturally and socially.” Campaigners welcome the backing.

Hawthorn Junior School in 1910

One of Llandaff’s favourite pubs has closed its doors with mystery surrounding as to the reason why. The Heathcock pub on Bridge Street was suddenly closed in July. Local regulars have described the closure as ‘devastating’. Landlord Mike Jones, who had run the pub for over 30 years, closed the premises without offering a reason to pub-goers. Owners Enterprise Inns have posted a notice outside the pub saying they had entered the premises to make it “safe”, and not to end the lease. They said that the company was currently “reviewing the situation”. Local regular Terry Jones, told Living Magazines: “I can’t understand why it has closed. It was a busy pub, and a much-loved one for local residents. It’s a sad day for Llandaff and a sad day for pubs in Cardiff in general. I guess they’re all feeling the pinch.” The pub is one of a number of drinking establishments to have demised in recent times, including The Quarry House in Fairwater and The Model Inn in the city centre, which have both closed this year. Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 3

NEWS I

LLANDAFF SIGNS MAKE A COMEBACK!

Signs that welcome visitors to Llandaff have finally made a comeback - four months after they were hauled down amid a row about spelling. The signs have been replaced where they were originally erected - one near the Co-op petrol station on Llantrisant Road, and the other on Cardiff Road near Churchills Hotel. The signs were originally ‘unwrapped’ back in March. But complaints by Welsh-speakers about the spelling of the word ‘Llandaff’ prompted Council officials to take the signs down. The signs had been bought with a £2,000 donation made by the BBC, for allowing Llandaff to be used by crews filming the highly

popular Dr Who series. The new signs comprise spellings in both English and Welsh. A council spokeswoman said that this was done at ‘no cost to the taxpayer.’ The signs read in English: “Welcome. City of Llandaff, city within a city.”.

WHITCHURCH ARTIST HOLDS CHARITY AUCTION FOR LOCAL HOSPITAL Well-known South Wales artist Nicholas Ward recently held a charity auction and exhibition of his work at his new gallery in Whitchurch. Merthyr-born Nick graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with a first in Fine Arts in 1998 but has been painting since his teens. “I draw my inspiration from the South Wales valleys and my work reflects my emotion at the time there is a lot of me in these paintings” was how Nick explained the works to the large crowd on opening night. Nick, who now lives in Pontypridd, Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 4

is enthusiastic about Whitchurch. “The residents have been very welcoming and supportive and I love the diversity of the shops and cafes. Whitchurch has such a village atmosphere. I feel very much at home here.” Nick generously auctioned one of his paintings and donated the entire proceeds of the sale to Velindre Hospital. The evening was a great success and Nick intends to stage another exhibition in the near future and will again be donating any auction proceeds to a local good cause.

The Welsh version reads: “Croeso. Dinas Llandaf, dinas o fewn dinas.” Chairman of the Llandaff Society, Geoff BartonGreenwood, said that the new bilingual signs had been paid for by Cardiff’s Highway Department.

WHEEL TURNS Over 150 people attended the reopening of the historic Melingriffith pump's opening on Friday 2nd July 2011. The pump has spent the last few months undergoing a detailed restoration. Cllr Nigel Howells made a speech and the pump was switched on by Robin Williams, who was part of the group of volunteers who restored the pump in the 1970s and 80s.

LETTERS

Melingriffith Football Club 1937-1938 Dear Editors Here is a photograph of the 1937-1938 Melingriffith Football Team. My husband Victor Tickner is on the back row, third from right. He started work on his 17th birthday until the Admiralty took over in the war. When they finished, Victor went back to work until Melingriffith ended. He went on to work until his retirement at 65 years old. He died aged 67 at Nantgarw Coke Ovens. There are a few other faces that I remember in this photograph. Back row, second from left is John Harry and seated on the floor right is Bill Llewellyn. I’m afraid that they must have now all passed away, but I hope that

Nick Says Thanks Dear Editors My son Nick Salter, a 16 year old pupil of Whitchurch High School who has just completed his GCSEs, has turned his attention to another fund raising event for the Wales Air Ambulance, the charity organisation that saved his life. In 2007, Nick was involved in a biking accident and suffered serious facial injuries. While out on a scout camping holiday, he was off road mountain biking in the Forest of Dean, when he hit a rock. He went over the handle bars and

Melingriffith Football Te

am 1937-1938

the picture will bring back some memories for some readers. The photograph is very old and I doubt that many people will have seen it. Rowena Tickner Cardiff Road Taffs Well Cardiff

If you have any photographs of times gone by that you’d like to share with our readers, please send them to our address on the inside front cover. We’ll retur n all photographs or documents.

fell face first down the mountain, knocking himself out and sustaining severe facial injuries. He also fractured his elbow. Because of the remoteness of the mountain and the severity of his injuries, the Wales Air Ambulance were called and took him to Hereford Hospital. Without the prompt action of both Nick’s Scout leaders and the Wales Air Ambulance (and her crew), the doctors said Nick wouldn’t be around today. Nick was joined by fellow students and staff from Whitchurch High for the 55 mile sponsored bike ride from Brecon to Cardiff Bay on Sunday 26th June.

His next sponsored event is a parachute jump and possibly climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Nick has a huge debt to pay and I don’t think he’ll ever stop fundraising for them. If anyone would like to donate the website address is: http://www.justgiving.com/Nichol asSalter Gail Salter Whitchurch

Share Your History

Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 5

! s b a r G r o f Up

We’ve teamed up with some top venues to bring you some great prizes this issue! We’ve got treatments from the country’s top spa plus tickets to see The Sound of Music at the Wales Millennium Centre!

ist! p ra e h t re t n e c y t i top c a t a s t n e m t a re t pa £170 worth of sCity Marshall Complementary As our spectrum of and Sports Therapies on Park Place have recently been voted No.1 Independent UK National Therapists out of 7,988 therapists across the UK. They are offering a readers a generous £170 worth of spa treatments, including one 90 minute spa treatment, followed by two 60 minute treatments. All treatments include full access to spa and gym facilities. Owner Philip Marshall has trained all over the world, especially in the Far East. He has brought these skills back to the UK. “Our treatments are tailor made to your body’s health needs and stress levels - it is up to you to decide. Revitalize, repair, uplift and re-energize yourself, or de-stress and relax?

professional knowledge is so wide, you can expect benefits within.” said Philip. “Over 170 studies into the scientific benefits of reflexology and how both reflexology and aromatherapy are fully accepted by the NHS in Cardiff & Vale.” City Marshall is situated within Vitality Health Club in Cardiff’s city centre, next to Henry’s Café Bar, and opposite the Park Hotel. To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize, all you need to do is fill in the missing word: Indian _____ Massage Send your missing word, along with your name, telephone number and email address directly to City Marshall, 8-16 Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3DN. All entries to be received by September 17th 2011

Win Family ticket to see The Sound of Music at the WMC!

The world’s best-loved musical, The Sound of Music returns to Wales Millennium Centre starring Jason Donavan as Captain Von Trapp alongside Connie Fisher who reprises her role as Maria. The uplifting true story of the Von Trapp family’s flight across the mountains is well known to young and old alike, with its unforgettable score including My Favorite Things, Do-Re-Mi, Climb Every Mountain and the glorious title song, The Sound of Music. In this lavish and critically acclaimed production, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s wonderful musical works its magic once again. Living Magazines have teamed up with Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 6

the Centre to offer one lucky reader the opportunity to win a pair of tickets to see the show on Wednesday 24 August. To win simply, all you need to do is answer the following question: Who played the role of Maria in the 1965 film version of The Sound of Music? Answers on a postcard to out address on the inside front cover, or to our email address by Sunday 21st August. Winners will be contacted by phone so please ensure that you include contact details, and that you are free on Wednesday 24th August.

The Sound of Music returns to Wales Millennium Centre from 23 August – 3 September 2011. For more information or to book tickets call the Ticket and Information Office on 029 2063 6464 or visit wmc.org.uk

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GET IN TOUCH

Iron man Matthew Pritchard is a professional skateboarder and one quarter of MTV’s Dirty Sanchez Show. Born in Cardiff and a pupil of Llandaff North’s Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Glantaf, Matthew’s career has taken him all over the world. Living Magazines caught up with him before he set off to Ibiza to take part in an IronMan Competition

“The only thing school gave me was a second floor window to jump out of.” Matthew Pritchard, professional skateboarder and star of MTV’s Dirty Sanchez recalls his youth at Ysgol Glantaf in Llandaff North. “My school years weren’t the best to tell you the truth. My only good memories were jumping out of windows with my friend Rhodri O’Neill and exploring the end of the field down by the Taff Weir opposite the Rowing Club. I wasn’t very good in class because all I wanted to do was become a stuntman. I skateboarded constantly too and really enjoyed it. Back in the day though, when I told my teachers that I wanted to become a stuntman, they just looked at me stupid and was told that thinking like that would get me nowhere. But I became a professional skateboarder, made a living out of it, and from that, clinched my own TV show. You could say that I succeeded in my goals.”

Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 8

Dirty Sanchez, for which Matthew first came to prominence, is one of MTV’s most popular shows. Three Welshmen (and one Englishman) put themselves through pranks, stunts and other painful dares. Originally based in Newport, the show has run for four series, with spin-off shows, a stage production, and even its own movie. Critics first compared the show to America’s Jackass, but fans of the show deemed it more extreme and daring. “The creation of Dirty Sanchez is a very long story. It was started by myself and [Lee] Dainton over 10 years ago now. The two of us were known in the skate industry as lunatics. We were always getting up to no good so we decided to film it all. We made a video called Pritchard vs Dainton. MTV and a few of the big magazines managed to get hold of it. Next thing I knew, I received a phone call from MTV and the rest, as they say - is history.”

In 2006, Matthew, along with the three other members of Dir ty Sanchez, Lee Dainton, Michael Locke and Dan Joyce travelled around the globe doing stunts and pranks that related to the seven deadly sins for Dirty Sanchez the Movie. With Matthew being arachnophobic, the rest of the team usually took advantage of this by doing pranks on him involving spiders. TV fame changed Matthew’s life but for the better: “It’s affected my life in such a big way - but a good way. I’ve been all over the globe, experienced and seen so much thanks to the show. It still continues today and I am very grateful for what it’s given me.”

“

The only thing school gave me was a second floor window to jump out of

Interview Matthew’s gratitude doesn’t stop there either. Over the last few years, he has become renowned for his charity work. In 2006, he and Dirty Sanchez co-creator Lee Dainton, completed a 192-mile skate from Cardiff to Newquay in aid of Cancer Research Wales. He also cycled 900 miles form John O’Groats to Land’s End in 30 days to for charity.

“I find myself very lucky and privileged to have had a great life and travelled the world. Doing charity work is my way of giving a little back to the people who are unable to do this. I really enjoy my charity work - it gives me a great feeling knowing I’m helping people who need it most. I have a lot of the endurance ideas for the future to keep fundraising which I’m looking forward to.” Matthew’s caring nature however, got him into a dangerous situation back in 2009 though, when he attempted to break up an argument between a man and a counter assistant in a shop in Norfolk. “This guy was being asked for his ID and he was getting angry. He said he'd been in prison for two years and had just come out. He was effing and blinding and there were kids there. “I just grabbed him by the waist and by the arms and pushed him out of the shop. Next thing I know, he slashed down my neck. It all happened so fast.” Matthew sustained serious injuries to his neck and chest. "I thought I was about to go to sleep at any point. I was telling my missus to tell my mum I love

her." he said. “I’m still the same person but it has affected me a little. It was a very DARK time in my life and the whole experience was horrible. I will never forget the look and actions of my girlfriend at the time when she realised what happened to me. It still haunts me to this day. I really can’t explain the In hospital after the feeling when you think it’s stabbing all about to end but I was very lucky indeed. I’ve always lived life to the full so not much has changed in my head really I just grabbed him by apart from the fact that I stay well t h e w a i st and by the arms away from anyone who looks and pushed him out of the slightly dodgy.” shop. Next thing I know, he Matthew is looking to the future slashed down my neck. It all though - and for the immediate happened so fast future, this involves an Iron Man Competition in Ibiza. “I want to push my body to the to him at Glantaf: limit and take it as far as I can go. “Going to a Welsh-speaking You will never know what you are school was important for me. I still capable of unless you take don’t understand why all our yourself that far. As long as I’m schools aren’t Welsh-speakinghappy and smiling, I will have a it’s disgusting. Wouldn’t it be great future. I’m really looking great if we all spoke Welsh to one forward to the Ironman another?” considering I did a lot of training Despite the anarchic style that for it. Then the month before, I’ve Matthew presents, there is a core partyed my pants off in Ibiza. I of determination within him that guess it just makes it more of a pushes him on. challenge to me!” Last month, he took part in an Despite travelling the world and Ironman competition. His experiencing what it has to offer, preparation included personal Matthew still lives in Cardiff and training from Welsh professional holds his Welsh roots in high racing cyclist and Olympic gold regard. medallist Geraint Thomas MBE. “When we were in school, we Again, this is for charity, and weren’t allowed to leave the again, Matthew is grateful. school grounds. As a result, I was "I feel very privileged and unsure of the area at the time. grateful to have Geraint's support Now that I’m older, I realise that and experience in helping me Cardiff is such a great place to with the cycling par t of my live. The Llandaff area where my Ironman challenge. Considering school was still sticks in my mind it's the main part of the challenge - the BBC is just up the road, you it will help a great deal.” have the Taff Trail plus you can actually walk into the city centre.” www.swyd.co.uk A lifelong fan of Cardiff City, www.twitter.com/pritchardswyd Matthew is appreciative of the Welsh language that was taught

“

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Whitchurch Hospital

A North Cardiff landmark

he elegant buildings of Whitchurch Hospital will be familiar sight to those who live in North Cardiff. Starting life as the Cardiff City Mental Hospital, the establishment officially opened doors in 1908. Its construction was the result of Victorian medical thinking, when there was little thought given to those suffering from mental health issues. At the end of the 19th century, the effects of the Industrial Revolution had reached far down the social classes. For many, vagrancy became closely linked to mental health problems. For these ‘lunatics’, who could not afford medical help, county asylums were the only place where they could be safely housed. History however, shows us that these people, often very sick, were simply locked up and forgotten about. It is a stigma that Whitchurch Hospital, has

Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 12

perhaps, had to live with since its opening. Cardiff’s rise to prominence as a coal port saw its population mushroom during the 19th century. At times, the figures doubled within the space of just 20 years. The resulting growth in population brought with it, the inevitable rise in mental health problems. These were tough times, with no welfare system to speak of. Provision for mental health issues were a low priority. By the turn of the 20th century, nearly 500 people were staying at the Glamorgan Asylum at Bridgend and the need for a provision in Cardiff was becoming fast apparent. Plans were drawn up for the Cardiff City Mental Hospital. It was to house 750 patients in 10 blocks. Five of these were for men and the other five were for women. A farm was also to be provided, which would help provide therapy for the patients. The

entire hospital was built for a cost of £350,000 and covered almost five acres of land. Dr Edwin Goodhall was appointed as the first medical superintendent and by May 1908, patients started arriving at the hospital. More than a month later, nearly 600 patients were boarding there. For the following few years, the hospital enjoyed an enviable reputation as an excellent provider of medical care. When the dark clouds of World War One loomed, the hospital was taken over by the military, who used it as a general medical hospital. The ‘boarders’ had been posted elsewhere around the company. Once war was over, and patients returned to the hospital, life began to take on its former self. Research into the causes and treatment of mental illness was always a part of Dr Goodhall's programmes, and Whitchurch was

Local Landmarks in a position to pursue this, being well equipped. War was once again to rear its ugly head and the hospital was once again commandeered by the military for use as a medical hospital. In all, over 800 beds were made available, making it one of the largest working hospitals in Wales during the Second World War. Soldiers from all over the world were brought to the hospital even in some cases, wounded German soldiers were treated there. The Second World War had created a housing crisis. Alongside post-war rebuilding of existing cities, and the designation of overspill areas, the New Towns Act 1946 led to major new centres of population. The planners covered thousands of acres of farmland, but they avoided tower blocks and the devastating results of the simultaneous redevelopment of the centres of older towns. 1948 saw the birth of the National Health Service. Whitchurch Hospital was duly taken into its care. On Saturday 3 July 1948, Aneurin Bevan sent a message to the medical profession shortly before the government launched the NHS. He wrote: “On July 5 we start, together, the new National Health Service. It has not had an altogether trouble-free gestation! There have been understandable anxieties, inevitable in so great and novel an undertaking. Nor will there be overnight any miraculous removal of our more serious shortages of nurses and others and of modern replanned buildings and equipment. But the sooner we start, the sooner we can try together to see to these things and to secure the improvements we all want.” So it was, that Whitchurch Hospital came under the wing of the NHS. Throughout the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s, the hospital was well used by patients. The ‘60s were revolutionary in so many ways in music, politics, science and technology. For the mental health services in Cardiff, it meant the diversification and development of a range of new specialised services.

The hospital had its own magazine called ‘65’ and its own football team. One excerpt from the magazine reads: “Whitchurch Hospital Patients XI have not lost a match since November 1961, on that date Hensol Castle were the victors, but since then Whitchurch have beaten them home and away for the past three seasons. Whitchurch are now regarded as “Champions” of the unofficial hospital league. Other teams always seem to pull out a little extra against Whitchurch, and Glanrhyd Hospital, Bridgend, came close to winning when they held us to a 1-1 draw at Bridgend.” There were also a piggery at the hospital. On Thursday, 27th June, 1968 there was an auction of equipment and livestock by Seth Phillips & Son. Records read: “Commencing with implements. Terms: Cash. Included in the sale were the following: - Quantity of Old Iron - Feed troughs - Pig weighing machine to weigh 300 lbs - Infra red lamps - 2 Ton Ford Van - Sows, gilts and boars ” The size of the hospital though was beginning to become its Achilles Heel.

. Care in the community was becoming a more popular, and more economically-viable way of caring for patients. Indeed, sending someone to ‘Whitchurch Hospital’, was seen by some as a last resort when all other methods of rehabilitation failed. The current facilities are considered obsolete and unsuitable for the requirements of 21st century psychiatry. As a result, there is an ongoing programme to phase out and replace the current building. Some facilities have been moved to newly-built units elsewhere, such as the acute psychiatric wards at the Llanfair Unit, Llandough Hospital. Other wards have been replaced by community-based services such as Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment Teams. The remaining facilities will be moved to a new purpose-built hospital to be constructed on the site of the adjoining Tegfan Day Hospital.

Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 13

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Body Treatments Leg, Foot & Ankle Massage …..................................£19.00 Back Massage …...........£19.00 Full body Massage ….....£27.00 Luxury Back Treatment £25.00 Body Smoothie ….........£20.00 Gift Vouchers available Group bookings welcome.

Michelle Smith Mobile Beauty Therapist Telephone: 07817 703891 A mobile beauty service in the comfort of your own home… Welcome to the new way to relax

All Care – for real peace of mind Providing hour-by-hour support and care to those who need it in their own homes can be something of a headache for some. But help is at hand thanks to All Care South Wales, who have been looking after the needs of those in the community for the last 18 years. Keri Llewellyn, Director, told Living Magazines: “All Care was formed in 1993 to provide community homecare services within the South Wales area. Since then, our award-winning staff members have been taking care of the day-to-day needs of our clients throughout Cardiff and beyond. We cover all of the capital, including Caerphilly and even take our services to Marshfield.” The company is committed to the provision of ‘quality care and real

All Care have been providing domiciliary care in Cardiff since 1993. Our award-winning staff are able to help you maintain dignity and independence in your own home. We offer a wide range of services including Personal Care, Domestic Help, Shopping and Companionship. For further no obligation help and information, please contact us.

A: 96, Whitchurch Road, Cardiff T: 02920 415000 W: www.all-care.org

peace of mind. “We offer a totally personalised service – flexible and tailored to your specific needs. We accept Direct Payments, giving you total choice over your package of care. We even provide ad hoc care for things like health care appointments and social events. No job is too small or too large for us.” Manager Louise Eveleigh was also keen to point out the high calibre of their staff: “We have won ‘Care Management Awards’ for the past two years and two ‘Care Practitioner Awards’ (Anne Hopkins won the Gold Award). We are currently shortlisted this year for the ‘Commitment to Training and Development of Care Staff Award’. All of our staff have received "Dignity Training." If you, or someone you know, is in need of help or support, All Care is just a phone call away. A: 96, Whitchurch Road, Cardiff T: 02920 415000 W: www.all-care.org

All Care’s Anne Hopkins picking up her award

Llandaff North Through Time

In a recently published book, local historian Steve Nicholas charts the story of our local communities. Excerpts from â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Whitchurch and Llandaff North Through Timeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; will continue to be serialised here throughout the year.

Evansfield Road

This is quite a busy road which leads to Ty Mawr Road, the Royal Exchange and Llandaff North Rugby Club

Cow and Snuffers

The original building was attached to the left of the present day Cow and Snuffers, which is now closed and up for sale. Benjamin Disraeli visited the pub in around 1838 when he was courting Mary Lewis of Tongwynlais

Ty Mawr Road

Houses on the Parade, Whitchurch, can be seen in the far background Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 16

Then and Now Station Road

Above is a sleepy Llandaff North village in its early years, with the railway station and the regular bus services into Cardiff. Llandaff North is a busy, vibrant community

Llandaff Station

The line at Llandaff North is still a busy link between Cardiff and the Valleys. Pictured is Llandaff Loop Junction signal box. It opened in 1900 and closed in 1998.

Christchurch Church

Due to dwindling attendances and large costs of running and maintaining the church, the congregation moved into the Sunday School rooms opposite. The church was demolished in 1976 and flats were built on the land. This captivating collection of 192 past and present images focuses on the land, streets and buildings in the communities of Whitchurch and Llandaff North, capturing the changes that have occurred in the last century. Published by Amberley Publishing (www.amberleybooks.com), the book is also available from local book shops priced ÂŁ14.99 Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 17

New Faces

New faces in

Business

With the economy squeezing local traders, it’s good to see brave business people bucking the trend and setting up shops in North Cardiff. Meet some of the new faces in the village.

“I hold Whitchurch very close to my heart so setting up business here felt like I was moving home”

10% Off Michelle of B Beautiful I set up B Beautiful here in Whitchurch in early June, but have been in the spa and beauty industry for over ten years. In this time, I have worked my way up from being a beauty therapist to the manager of many salons. Working hard for other people was fine, but I felt that my job would be more rewarding if I set up on my own. Having worked on the BBC series Merlin and others in the past, I felt confident enough to go it alone!” For Michelle, setting up business in Whitchurch made perfect sense: “I grew up in Whitchurch and worked at the Village Hotel for many years. I hold Whitchurch very close to my heart and so setting up business here felt like I was moving home. The salon offers a huge range of treatments, from wonderfully relaxing massages to reflexology. We also take care of everything from minx toes, makeovers and skin firming spray tans. Summer won’t be here for long so make the most of it girlies!”

“

A:15 Plasnewydd, Whitchurch, Cardiff CF14 1NR T: 02920 619855

Are you looking to increase awareness of your brand? We’re looking to help preserve and further our community

spirit by welcoming new business to our village, and to champion the superb businesses that already exist here. In recent years, our villages, like many other places, are feeling the pinch. But we’re proud of our villages, their heritage, and their standing within the capital. Living Magazines were launched in 2007 with its main aim of supporting local business. That’s why we’re launching a new Business Section in Whitchurch and Llandaff Living. If you’re wanting to build brand awareness locally, here’s what we’re offering:

Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 18

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Beautiful

Prepare to be pampered in Whitchurch’s newest beauty salon.With treatmentes ranging from Minx Nail Art and Shellac 14-day high-gloss manicure, to spray tans, waxing and a wide range of holisitc therapies, you’ll feel truly indulged at B Beautiful Holistic & Beauty.

15,Plasnewydd,Whitchurch,CardiffCF141NR (Just2minutesfromWhitchurchvillage-oppositeEglwysWenSchool)

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Bridal*Packages*Offers*Counselling*Nutrition 53,600 magazines distributed free every year across North Cardiff 23,600 of these delivered DIRECTLY into people’s homes by us. 150,000 magazines successfully distributed since our launch in 2007. Respected and trusted brand. Readers keep our magazines to form a directory of local businesses. Free advert design service. Unlimited advert changes per issue. NEW! Unlimited editorial on our North Cardiff community website (over 100,000 individual visitors since July 2010!) Generous discounts for series and/or cross bookings. Flexible payments. FREE distribution on your b ehalf. No more costly and timeconsuming leaflet drops! Hyperlocal and targeted distribution. Our magazines hit sp ecific areas, reducing wastage. Magazines available online for further exposure of your brand. CALL 07772 081775 to book your space now!

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Cardiff Bed and Furniture Centre 47 Merthyr Road, Whitchurch CF14 1DB

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Mon night curry and a pint ÂŁ7.95 2 courses for ÂŁ9.95 Mon-Fri 5-7pm Wednesdays - 2 steaks and a bottle of wine ÂŁ20 Thurs night open mic night Friday live music Traditional Sunday lunch OAP 1 free when 4 dine at lunch Mon-Fri

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10% Off No photocopies. Entitles 10% off total food bill only. Excludes Sunday lunches.

or Daddy, or Grandma, or someone else special! Lively music sessions for babies and pre-school children (0-3 years)

Classes held in Rhiwbina and Canton For a Free Taster Session call Rachel: 07747 868682 Email: jollybabiesrachel@hotmail.co.uk www.musicwithmummysouthwales.co.uk

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LLANDAFF INSTITUTE ESTABLISHED 1866

A PRIVATE MEMBERS CLUB

Become a member of the exclusive Llandaff Institute and become part of its proud heritage. Join us at exclusive ticketed events, cue up with friends in the beautiful Snooker Room, or simply relax in the Members’ Lounge at your leisure. SNOOKER ROOM Our Tudor Room is also available to hire for parties for non-members. CALL 02920 564706 to arrange a visit. MEMBERS’ LOUNGE

Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 13

Photographs © Llandaff Society 2010

m o o R s r e Rerieas dfrom the pens of readers Sto

Reincarnation Billy by Elizabeth Cunningham illy was No.3 in the family, the third son for my mother, who so fervently wanted a daughter. Make no mistake about it though, my mother loved children, and loved Billy. Perhaps unconsciously, she did not always show it. For some time now, my parents were increasingly concerned about my youngest brother and his rejection of life outside the family home. Maybe it was his misfortune that the two older boys were such model sons, shining academically and on the sporting field. Both had won the Victor Ludorum on the school’s sports day and were in the 1st Junior Rugby Team. Billy’s achievements…nil. He was a loner and lived in his own secretive little world with his only friend – his dog Bobby. We lived about ten minutes away from my grandparents and saw them quite often. My grandfather spent a lot of his time on his beloved allotment, which was a short distance away from their house. But now this was in jeopardy. His sight was beginning to fail, so it was decided that one of his grandchildren would accompany him. I was too young and my two older brothers were

busy studying. That left Billy to be Grandpa’s escort and he patiently agreed. Now, in the light summer evenings and weekends, it was a familiar sight – Billy and my grandfather walking along the embankment en route to the allotment, which was on the other side of the River Taff. Generally, the supper table’s conversation was dominated by Paul and Edward, my two older brothers. But after the first week of taking Grampa to his allotment, Billy was animatedly holding the floor. He told us of Grampa’s father’s house in Faringdon. He told us of the farm he owned called The White Copse, and of the public house he owned called The White Hart. His gambling took it all away. “Grampa told me he could remember the German dancing bears, who with their master, visited the White Hart every year.” One evening, an excited young lad brought home an old yellowed auction catalogue dated Wednesday March 15th 1893. “Mum must have been very rich then – look at all the rooms here!” Billy opened the pages of the catalogue which described the seven bedrooms and the dressing room in White Copse Farm. The ground floor had a servants’ hall, a butlers’ pantry, a drawing room, a dining room, a library and an outside coach house. My mother

was fascinated by the ‘dimity’ curtains in the bedrooms. It was the strange names of the farm implements which intrigued my father. What was a scuffler, a Cambridge roller or a flat-iron roller? Billy, a true animal lover, marvelled at the horses, the black and chestnut geldings, the brown and bay mares. All had been named. There was Turpin, Smiler, Tom and Diamond. Violet was the only roan mare. Billy was now regarded with a new sibling respect, as befitting of his role as custodian of the family history. My father too, surprised he had only vaguely known of his father’s pre-Cardiff life, found himself turning to Billy for more information. The young boy who had hitherto shunned all outside interests, was now an enthusiastic boy scout, and had joined the junior football club. So it was, all the cajolings of my mother, and all the inducements of my father, had done naught to crack their son’s shell. It was instead, a revered old gentleman with his impaired vision, who had seen and penetrated his grandson’s armour, and made Billy a part of the outside world.

Elizabeth Cunningham

Do you have a story to tell? We’re looking for writers of all ages to contribute to our pages. Please send them (preferably in an email) to our address on the inside front cover Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 21

Est 1981

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Landscaping and Bricklaying

12 Greenfield Avenue Whitchurch Cardiff CF14 1TF

Matthew Craig Associates Limited Chartered Accountants & Tax Advisers

As a local provider of professional services, which include tax returns, audit and accountancy we are committed to providing a high quality personal service. Contact Steve Screech now and get these benefits:

- Free Consultation! - Fees fixed for 2 years! Introductory discounts up to 25%!

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As professional Funeral Directors, the company subscribes to the Membership of the National Association of Funeral Directors

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Family Owned Independent

Arrange your funeral needs through Pidgeons, Cardiff’s oldest family Owned Funeral Company. The company and dedicated staff have over 300 years experience in the profession. You are assured of the highest level of professionalism from our dedicated staff

Kris Hicks Electrical Electrical Rewires, Alterations and Additions. 24HR Breakdown Callouts, Fault Finding, Fuseboard Upgrades, Fire/Security Alarms, Garden Power and Lighting, Telephone/Computer Networking, New Sockets, Showers and Lighting

Tel : 02920 373665 Mob : 07772 177158

Kris Hicks Electrical is Registered with the NICEIC.

Maskreys Managers Move Into Rhiwbina

Two familiar faces have moved into Rhiwbina village and have opened their doors to haus which is specialising in home furnishings, curtains and blinds. Gail and Vivian have built up 30 years experience in contemporary furnishings during their career with maskreys and will continue to offer the same first class service at haus. Visit their relaxed friendly showroom and browse The Haus through their extensive collections of fabrics, wallpapers and blinds where you will be truly inspired. BLINDS Made to Measure MOTORISED BLINDS AND TRACKS CONSERVATORY BLINDS CURTAINS Made to Measure AWNINGS TRACKS AND POLES PLANTATION SHUTTERS FABRIC AND WALLPAPER SOLUTIONS FOR BAY AND SHAPED WINDOWS HOME ACCESSORIES FREE INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE PROJECT MANAGEMENT

contemporary furnishings Two familiar faces from maskreys are looking forward to welcoming you to haus.

girls

A: 6c Heol-y-Deri, Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 6HF T: 02920 611372 W: www.haus-cardiff.co.uk E: info@haus-cardiff.co.uk

With just one call we do it all! All work fully insured Free advice Estimates Inspections Call 029 2089 1969 or 07800 872 282 Email:

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Pets

Other People’s Pets Are Driving Me Mad! My question relates not to my own pets (I don’t have any), but to others. I am a keen gardener but often get visits from local cats who enjoy squatting on my lawn and urinating. How can I keep these pests away in a ‘humane’ way? It is surprising how often we are asked this question, though I’m not sure why you would ask a vet how to get rid of a pet! As a gardener though, I sympathise with you. There are many products on the market attempting to deter cats, dogs, foxes etc from using your garden as a latrine. These include chemicals you pour onto the soil, markers and substances which give off a scent, and electronic devices. The fact that there are so many different approaches tells you that none is very reliable, and you need to experiment to see what works in your garden. Cats usually dislike citrus odours, so many deterrents are based on this smell. You may find that scattering lemon or orange peel around an area might help. It is said that the dung of big cats (lions/tigers) frightens away many animals, including cats, rabbits and deer. Not very easy to come by, and possibly more unpleasant that the problem you are trying to prevent! Physical barriers such as small twigs stuck in the ground in seed beds or string stretched tightly a few inches above the ground are often effective. I use a light wooden frame covered with wire netting and raised on short legs to protect the seeds I plant in my garden. One note of caution – there are many electronic devices which emit an ultrasonic sound which humans can’t hear but which cats/dogs can, and dislike. These may also affect wildlife, and you should think carefully about the possible consequences of using them.

Pets’ Page Resident vet, Chris Troughton is happy to answer any of your pet-related questions. Drop him a line at editor@livingmags.co.uk

Dog Neutering: Are There Any Side Effects? I’m getting my dog neutered next week. Are there side effects? When you talk to people about the effects that neutering has had on their dogs, a variety of ‘side effects’ are mentioned. Weight gain is the most common problem that dogs experience after neutering. Calories consumed in excess of the daily need can either be burned off as ‘waste’ heat, or stored (as fat) for later use. What an individual’s metabolism does is decided by factors such as breed, age, sex and others. When an animal is neutered, more of the excess calories are stored as fat than were previously … but it’s only the excess calories that are stored. You need to be careful to monitor your dog’s weight and reduce his rations if necessary. We usually recommend that when fully grown dogs are neutered, the owners immediately reduce the amount they are fed, on the principle that it’s easier to gain weight if you get thin, than to lose it if you get fat! Another side effect of neutering is reduced territorial marking and defence, though the instinct to guard will not be abolished, and the reduction in marking behaviour is usually regarded as a good thing. Dogs will also be less inclined to roam seeking a mate. Neutering is often blamed for increasing a dog’s appetite, but there is no evidence that this occurs. Owners of fat neutered dogs blame an increase in the pet’s appetite for the increase in weight, rather than accepting responsibility for overfeeding it! Neutering is often done in the adolescent or young-adult stages of

Pets’ Page is sponsored by the Heath Veterinary Group

the dog’s life, when his/her personality is changing as he/she matures. This gives rise to the myth that neutering causes dogs to slow down or to calm down. It doesn’t – it’s just the development of the adult personality.

I Want To Be A Vet I am currently doing my GCSEs and have always fancied becoming a vet. How do I go about becoming one? Work hard! There is still a great deal of competition for places at the seven veterinary schools in the UK, though it’s not as bad as when I went to college, shortly after the James Herriot era. The academic entry requirements are very high – you will probably need at least 4 grade A A-levels in the sciences. Universities also look at your wider academic abilities, so it is important to have a good set of GCSE results, and other achievements (like music or sport) are also worth having. The university course is very hard, and the selectors will be looking for students who can perform well under pressure. In addition to your academic qualifications, you need to be able to show in your application for university that you have a real interest in animals and their care. Having a family pet is not enough; you need to get lots of experience with animals – voluntary work in an animal sanctuary or boarding kennels, work experience placements in a vet, grooming parlour or similar.

(029) 2062 1511 Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 25

Offices in Porthcawl & Cardiff: ÂŁ Mortgages ÂŁ Life Assurance ÂŁ Flexible Appointment Times

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Policing

Policing NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH UPDATE

CRIME FIGURES CONTINUE TO FALL BUT POLICE NOT COMPLACENT The latest Home Office crime figures show Cardiff is staying safe, with a 12% drop in crime across the city. Crime figures for the 12-month period up to March 31st 2011, released by the Home Office in July, reveal that crime overall in Eastern Division has fallen compared to the year before. This is equivalent to 4554 less victims of crime - or 87 less crimes every week – and has contributed to an overall 9.2% decrease in crime in South Wales. Serious acquisitive crime has dropped by almost a quarter from 7,786 to 5,896. The key areas are as follows: - All offence groups down by 12% or 4554 fewer victims of crime. - All violent crime down 3% or 210 fewer victims. - 252 fewer cars stolen – a reduction of 26.9%. - 1523 fewer cars broken into – a reduction of 32.8%. - 40 fewer homes were burgled over the year, a reduction of 2.2%. - Criminal damage reduced by 23.4%, with 1797 fewer offences. Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent Alun Thomas said: “This is very good news for the people of Cardiff and the thousands of people who visit the city every day. “There have been significant decreases in offences that greatly

Rogue Traders

by PC Andy Ryan (North Cardiff) If residents adhere to the following points then we can all fight the battle against the rogue traders:

●

All work carried out and products purchased should be of a satisfactory standard. ● Cancellation rights in writing by law

impact on qualify of life such as having your car stolen or broken into; being a victim of burglary and having your property damaged. “These figures demonstrate the hard work and dedication of all our staff, but also the role of Safer Capital which has a strong influence on the reduction of crime in Cardiff.” Despite the continued reduction in crime, the police are committed to targeting anti-social behaviour and this will continue to be very high on their operational agenda in the weeks and months ahead. A range of operations are planned, and are already underway, in sectors across the city to reduce nuisance and disorderly behaviour. Chief Supt Thomas added: “We realise that statistics are not everything, and while we continue to work hard to reduce crime, our biggest challenge now is to make people feel safe. "We must thank the public for this current level of performance because without their help our job is impossible and the information we receive from our communities is what makes a difference.” Anyone with information about crime in their community should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

are required to be given by the trader. Contracts/invoices should be completed prior to work being carried out. It is imperative that you know the price and what work is to be carried out. ● Use a trader who has been recommended by a friend or neighbour. ● Have a family member or friend present when the work is being agreed. ●

with Billl Farnham The setting up of r a new Neighbourhood Watch in Blandon Way, Whitchurch, will hopefully get off the ground with their first full meeting this summer. I have been informed that although the residents of Court Eglwys / St. Marys’ Court, Tyn-Y-Pwll Road, Whitchurch, want a Neighbourhood Watch Group, no-one is volunteering to run it. Could I please ask for three or four people to step forward and take this on board. You will not be on your own as we at Cardiff West Neighbourhood Watch Association will support you all the way. It has been suggested that Cardiff West NWA hold our quarterly meetings at different locations throughout the area that we cover. The July meeting was therefore held at Cardiff Bay police station. I will report back in the next issue on how the meeting went. I am pleased to say that a new Watch that I have been involved with setting up, is now active in Windsor Quay, Cardiff Bay. We are still growing! The August PACT meeting for the Whitchurch and Tongwynlais area was cancelled due to police commitments. The next meeting will therefore be on Tuesday 20th September at 7pm. This will take place in the International Hotel, Tongwynlais. Please call 02920 527301 if you are interested in setting up a Watch in your area. ●

If you have not asked for any work to be carried out or requested a quote, make sure that you send the trader away. ● Report any suspicious activity concerning these individuals. Please contact South Wales Police on 029 20 222111/101/999, Cardiff City Trading Standards 029 20 872059 or email: tradingstandards@cardiff.gov.uk

Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 27

Crossword

Answers will be published in Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Autumn issue, due out in October!

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Rhiwbina ● Whitchurch ● Llandaff ● Llandaff North ● Danescourt ● The Web

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‘Hyperlocal’ is the new term for news within the community. Regional newspaper closed down? Local TV on its way? Hyperlocal media is produced by communities for communities. It’s what we’ve been doing best since 2007. And it’s the way of marketing that advertisers are coming around to. Why pay for expensive adverts in regional publications that miss most of your geographical area? We offer precision penetration within a geographical area. Working smarter for your money don’t you think? 6. Value for your money

Looking for value for money? We don’t claim to be the cheapest when it comes to advertising. But we do claim to be superb value for money. We do all we can to turn your investment in an advert, into a return. Why? Quite simply, it means that you’re more likely to advertise with us again. About 40% of our advertisers are repeat advertisers. Our magazines are clearly doing it for them .And you don’t pay VAT on our rates either. Lovely. 7. Local, relevant content - written by professionals

As well as contributions from locals, our magazines are written by professional writers. We’ve written for national newspapers and magazines, including The Guardian, the Western Mail, South Wales Echo, WM magazine, RedHanded magazine, Your Wedding and even Americymru, a US website for all things Welsh. 8. We’re on the web - and more!

We’re embracing the digital revolution. We currently upload our publications to the web for international readership. But we’re also exploring new ways to get our digital issues onto people’s PCs, laptops and even their phones. From our little village, we’re helping lead the way in publishing from the grassroots.

9. 53,600 magazines a year

53,600 of our magazines are printed (on high quality paper) and distributed by us every year. Remember that figure of 3.3 readers per magazine we mentioned earlier? How many people are going to see your advert? Well…work it out for yourself! .10. All of the above

Call 07772 081775 or visit www.livingmags.co.uk * Readers’ Survey 2011. 42 returned forms

Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 30

Column

think it was Tony Benn who once said on television that he’d calculated that he’d drunk enough tea in his lifetime to float the QE2. There are several legends about the origin of tea. The most prominent one involves a certain Shen Nung. As you can tell, he wasn’t a local lad. Shen was in fact, a Chinese emperor and had an fascination with herbs. The story goes that one day, there he was, boiling his water and minding his own business, when some leaves from a nearby tea shrub fluttered into his water. Being a curious fellow, he tasted the brew and decided that it was tasty. And so an institution was born. Clearly, he had left the lid off his kettle. By 3AD, tea was so popular in China, that they had to invent a new word for it - ch’a (in its anglicised form). For me and my siblings, a chup-o-cha was my way of saying ‘a cup of tea’. It was a staggering 1,600 years later before the Europeans clocked on to tea. Despite tea being a very ‘British’ thing, it was in fact, the Dutch who introduced tea to Western Europe. The Dutch had elbowed their way into the Portuguese shipping routes to the east. The Portuguese had been bringing some tea back in dribs and drabs, but it was the Dutch who brought it back en masse. It was the marriage of Charles II to Catherine of Braganza that sealed tea’s fate in Britain in the 1600s. Catherine was hopelessly addicted to tea. Even back then, the British public followed the trends of royalty. Not one to miss a trick, the East India Company of London, began to import tea into Britain. Its first order was placed in 1664 - for 100lbs of China tea to be shipped from Java.

All this is all very well and good. But I wonder if all these historical figures have any idea of the delight and misery they’ve brought me via the medium of tea. I went to see my doctor a few years ago as I was getting palpitations pretty regularly. He asked me how many cups of tea I drank per day. I told him. He leaned back in his seat, bent his Biro and looked me right in the eye. “Ten cups of day Mr Morgan? I can see exactly the reason why you’re getting palpitations. I suggest you cut down significantly on your tea intake. After a few weeks, you’ll feel the benefits.” Thinking about giving up my tea brought me out in a cold sweat and palpitations. I had to go home and have a cup of tea to get over it (I’d learnt from watching Eastenders, that if there was ever a problem, the first thing you should do is put the kettle on). I looked up the benefits to tea to see if I could justify a reason for drinking it. It was claimed that drinking tea has potential health maintenance benefits in cardiovascular disease and cancer prevention. It was also apparently high in fluoride. I’d get palpitations but at least I’d still have teeth to clench while I had them. 80% of office workers now claim they find out more about what's going on at work over a cup of tea than in any other way. Tea also contains half the amount of caffeine found in coffee. For me, the biggest benefit of tea for many years, was the fact that it got me out of working. I’ve had some very dreary call-centre jobs in my time. Making tea became a regular way of getting off the

phones. This was in the case when I lived in Cornwall and worked in Plymouth. I was appointed Chief Tea Maker for the entire office. Making tea for 50 people was my kind of work. My success was however, my downfall. They hired a lady called Jean, specifically to make tea. How I hated watching her mooching around with her stupid trolley and her beige cushioned shoes. Worse was to follow when they sacked her and replaced her with a hot drinks vending machine. And we all know what tea from them tastes like. Tea for me these days is a crutch, as maybe a cigarette is for some people. I’ll happily admit that I’m probably addicted. It’s the first thing on my mind when I wake up. Once the first cup of the day has been downed, it’s on to the second. I still probably drink anywhere between 7 and 10 cups of tea a day. These 7-10 cups have to be made in a certain way. I’ve often made the mistake of accepting a cup of tea from a friend, and been sadly let down by the mug of elephant juice I get handed to me. So here’s the definitive way of making a perfect cuppa. 1. Place a teabag in a mug. 2. Boil kettle with fresh water. Water should only be boiled once so don’t use water that’s already been boiled. 3. Pour boiling water instantly onto the teabag. The teabag should puff up as the oxygen is released from the tea leaves. 4. Wait until the teabag actually sinks to the bottom of the mug. 5. Spoon out the tea bag, and add milk to desired level. Do not stir. 6. Congratulate yourself on a perfect cup of tea. Cheers.

Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Page 31

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