WhY Do WE NEED A ProPErTY ProTECTIoN TrUST?
Most people hope that their estate will pass on to their loved ones eventually. But this will not happen for many unless careful arrangements have been made to protect their assets from being taken towards the end of their life to pay for care home fees. The solution to help protect your estate is a Will incorporating a Property Protection Trust (PPT). A testamentary PPT can only be executed whilst both partners remain alive. Upon death of the first partner, their Will specifies that their share of the property is placed into trust and names the ultimate beneficiary of this share, normally the children of the deceased. The surviving partner, under the terms of the Trust, has the unequivocal right to remain living in the property for the rest of their life.
On the death of the second partner the Trust comes to an end and the property passes to the beneficiaries. As the surviving partner does not own the deceased’s share of the property it is fully protected for the beneficiaries, so if the surviving partner requires care, or even remarries, this share of the children’s inheritance is protected. This last point can be of particular interest to couples who have come together but have children from different partners.
A PPT can help each person in a relationship ensure that their children inherit their share of the property, while giving their surviving partner the ability to live in the property for the rest of their life. If the surviving partner wants to move to another property they can still sell the property and the proceeds be used to purchase a new property; the terms of the trust remain over the new property.
Westminster Law will assess your current circumstances and arrange the trust that will provide the best protection for you, your family and your assets.
Westminster Law are specialists in organising this.
EDITor’S LETTEr
WELCoME To oUr AUGUST EDITIoN!
Dear Readers,
As we embrace the final stretch of Summer, August offers the perfect opportunity to make lasting memories with your loved ones before the new school term begins. This issue is all about celebrating family time and the joy of making the most of the summer.
In this special Summer edition, we’re excited to bring you a feature packed with things to do with the kids - with indoor and outdoor adventures to suit everyone. Whether you’re looking to fill the last few days of Summer with fun activities, or are already planning ahead for the upcoming school break, we’ve got ideas to keep the whole family entertained and engaged.
We would like to thank you, our lovely readers and advertisers for your continued support, without you we wouldn’t be here. Your feedback, support, and enthusiasm keep us motivated to bring you the best of what local communities have to offer. So grab a cool drink, relax, and dive into this month’s issue. We hope it helps make the last bit of Summer even sweeter.
Keeping with the summer theme, we have some fab articles including ‘Go, Go Gadgets’ for the gardening enthusiast, a special Summer gift guide, a delicious recipe by Dominic Chapman plus a special feature on women’s rugby, ‘Women of the Moment’ which will be running from August 22nd to Sepember 22nd.
We are currently working on our September edition, if you would like to get your business into the homes of potential customers, then why not drop us an email at: enquires@village-directory.co.uk or give us a call on 01443 204399 / 07971 648385.
So until next month, happy Summer reading!
Alison
Editor: Alison Jones
Studio & Design: Alison Jones
Advertising: Alison Jones & Lauren Whitfield
Editorial: Alison Jones
Email: enquiries@village-directory.co.uk Tel: 07971 648385
Web: www.village-directory.co.uk
To place an advert in the Directory telephone: 07971 648385
WhAT an exciting time we have had a Barrmore Vets. For the second time in 10 years our lovely building has been given a facelift. re-rendered and a fresh new logo we are now ready for the next phase of life for Barrmore Vets.
As a practice we now offer many benefits to our clients. From in-house orthopaedic surgery, cardiology and ophthalmology through our partnerships with leading professionals, to behaviour clinics and mobility clinics with our highly trained nurses.
In addition to Animal health Certificates our vets are oV66 registered - this means they can assist in certifying your pet’s move to Australia. We are one of the only practices in South Wales that able to do this.
In order to make our clients’ lives a little easier we have introduced online booking – instant access 24/7 for your Vet and nurse consultations, food and medication orders.
We have come so far and are so proud of this incredible practice. If you would like to join us and be part of this fantastic practice simply register online www.barrmorevets.co.uk, via our facebook page or call us on 01443 224666.
Telephone: 01443 224666 www.barrmorevets.co.uk
VoLUNTEEr To BE A NATIoNAL
CoASTWATCh INSTITUTIoN (NCI) WATChkEEPEr AT ST DoNAT’S BAY
nCI St Donat’s Bay is keeping a special lookout this summer – searching for the next intake of volunteer watchkeepers.
The station, based at UWC Atlantic near Llantwit Major, is the eyes and ears along the coast to help keep people safe. Working with search and rescue teams including the rnLI and hM Coastguard, nCI St Donat’s is crewed by a team of volunteers from the local community, staff and students from the College. open during daylight hours, it’s aiming to expand to 7 days a week with the help of more volunteer crew. new recruits will receive full training in nautical knowledge, search and rescue protocols and a range of skills required to meet the high standards of hM Coastguard and the rYA.
“Our Watchkeepers are extraordinary volunteers, says Station Manager neil French, himself a volunteer. “They are a team of people who’ve quickly become part of the heart of the seafront, working alongside search and rescue teams to protect people’s safety. our volunteers learn new skills quickly while making new friends and we all feel really lucky to be part of something so special.” Volunteers are aged 16+ of any gender and work alongside local volunteer crew, student cadets and staff at the College to deliver a year-round Coastwatch service.
Watchkeepers often come from the local community and all walks of life, offering a wide range of transferable skills and experience but sharing a common purpose: to volunteer their time to search and rescue at sea and on the coast.
You don’t have to have any maritime experience as full training is provided.
As a volunteer you are required to:
l Engage in a full training programme (on average, lasting approximately 6 months before becoming fully qualified), followed by a formal assessment, to meet rigorous hMCG and rYA standards
l Attend classroom and on watch training
l Commit to an average of 4 watches of 4 hours per month
l Attend crew meetings with a minimum of 4 per year
l Support fundraising activities
l Attend refresh training as and when required This equates to volunteering on average 20 hours per month
Crew are also required to:
l Wear the nCI uniform when on duty representing the charity. The uniform gives the watchkeeper an air of authority, which has proved essential when dealing with the members of the public in an emergency situation
l undergo an advance DBS check
l Many crew volunteer to be on the station management committee
If you are interested in volunteering at the NCI St. Donat’s Bay station, please email an expression of interest including a brief introduction of your background to the Station Manager: st.donats.bay@nci.org.uk.
Timelines: Application sifts – 8th August 2025 Informal interviews – 14th August 2025
Try-out Watches – August and September 2025 (you can make sure it is for you before committing)
If successful, your training will commence in october 2025.
SUmmer holiDAy iDeAS. . .
BrYNGArW CoUNTrY PArk, BrIDGEND, CF32 8UU
have a summer holiday adventure at Bryngarw Country Park with nature-inspired trails, outdoor theatre performances, music on the lawn and more; there’s something to keep the whole family entertained. After exploring the park, with its meadows, woodlands, Japanese-inspired gardens and children’s playground, head to our café for a delicious ice cream or homemade cake. For more info visit: www.bryngarwcountrypark.co.uk
kArT kINGDoM
Castell Business Park, Llandow, Cowbridge CF71 7Pn
www. kartkingdom.co.uk
Located in the heart of the Vale of Glamorgan, Kart Kingdom offers an indoor go-karting experience like no other. Their facilities boasts equal performance karts, the latest racing technology and a fun, competitive environment for all ages, definitely the go-to destination for fun and adrenaline in South Wales. For more information or to book, call 0330 3802223 or email info@kartkingdom. co.uk
Go APE
Margam Park Country Park
Margam Country Park, Port Talbot SA13 2TJ
Adventure Awaits at Go
Ape Margam! Leap into an unforgettable adventure filled with tricky obstacles, zips of up to 180m and butterfly inducing Tarzan Swings. This Treetop Challenge has been likened to a roller coaster in the trees. So, zip on down to Margam Country Park and find your next adventure! Book Now at www. goape.co.uk.
hENSoL hAWkS JUNIor GoLF ACADEMY
CoWBrIDGE - CF71 7UP
Award-Winning Summer Golf
Camps at hensol hawks Junior Golf Academy!
Looking for an unforgettable summer experience for your child? hensol hawks Junior Golf Academy welcomes boys & girls aged 5 and up to join their award-winning holiday camps! Why choose hensol hawks?
l Expert Coaching l Fun & gamebased learning l Life skills inclued
l Inclusive & supportive. Give your child the chance to learn, grow and make new friends this summer! Visit website: www.hensolhawks.co.uk
BIrDIE GoLF - PorThCAWL
Grove Golf Club, South Cornelly, Porthcawl CF33 4rP
South Wales’ Premier one-Stop Golf Shop & Expert Services hub! Looking for the ultimate golf experience in South Wales? Birdie Golf Porthcawl is proud to be recognized as the region’s best one-stop golf shop - your destination for everything golf, whether you’re a seasoned player, weekend warrior, or just getting started! Why choose Birdie Golf Porthcawl? l Comprehensive range l Custom fitting excellence
l Expert coaching l Junior Golf Academy l Community events
l Innovation at its best. Ready to elevate your golf experience. Visit website: www.birdiegolf.co.uk
ThE VALE oF GLAMorGAN
ShoW - AUG 13th
Penllyn, Cowbridge CF71 7RQ
roLE PLAY LANE, LLANTWIT FArDrE
nEWToWn InD EST, LLLAnTWIT FARDRE CF38 2EE
Join us in the summer holidays for some lovely role play sessions and classes, such as: craft, cooking, music sessions, baby and toddler classes, Minecraft sessions and our quiet ALn sessions. For more info visit www. roleplaylane.uk
hooVES & hAPPINESS
Penllyn Est, Llwynhelig, Cowbridge CF71 7FF
Summer fun time!
With lots of fun activities for all ages and abilities.
l Pony care days
l Country hacks
l Unicorn academy
l Country & western day
l Mini agility l Pony portraits
l Lead rein sessions.
A riding centre, nestled within the stunning Penllyn Estate in Cowbridge, South Wales! The friendly, well-trained ponies are excited to meet you and be part of your riding adventure. For more info visit: www.hoovesandhappiness. co.uk/
NINJA WArrIorS Uk
Hadfield Rd, Cardiff CF11 8EY
our ninja Warrior uK Adventure Park offers you a supervised activity and fitness venue inspired by ITV’s hit tv show. Come and test your ninja skills while climbing, balancing and swinging across obstacles or bouncing across our inflatable – plus, they have the famous Warped Wall for you to conquer.
To place an advert in the Directory telephone: 07971 648385
The show returns, now the largest one day event in the Vale of Glamorgan, featuring - livestock and horse showing, over 200 Trade Stands, food court along with a shopping mall and craft fair! Advance ticket prices: Adults £17.50; Children £5; Family Ticket £40 (2+2) . For all the event info visit: www. visitthevale.com/events/the-vale-ofglamorgan-show or call 07513 141698 or email vale.show@outlook.com
A great place for families and friends to experience excitement and fun. Choose your challenge now! For more info visit: www. ninjawarrioruk.co.uk/cardiff/
Warren Mill Farm Park & Fishery
Pendoylan, nr cowbridge come and meet our friendly farm animals, alpacas, donkeys, miniature ponies & rabbits plus more.... refreshments available
A GreAT fAmily DAy oUT
opeN all day every day 10.30am-6pm
admission: adults £5 children £4
come along & feed the animals follow the brown tourist sign off A48 in bonvilston or Jct 34 off m4 www.warrenmillfarm.co.uk course fishing
TelePhone: 07768 839885
Bonvilston, Cardiff CF5 6TR Phone: 07853 128513 We aRe Based
Little Trotters Clubhouse is a cosy, family-friendly café nestled within Liege Manor Equestrian Centre. With a warm, welcoming vibe and a touch of rustic charm, we serve delicious homemade meals, cakes, and quality coffee. Whether you’re watching a riding lesson, enjoying a treat with friends, or just popping in for a bite, Little Trotters is the perfect spot to relax and refuel.
Events in your local area this August
VE DAY CELEBrATIoNS
- ThE CAErPhILLY ChEESE FESTIVALCaerphilly Town Centre - Aug 30th & 31st - Say cheese! The Caerphilly Cheese Festival, sponsored by robert Price Builders’ Merchants, is back for 2025! There will be a music event with a number of music areas throughout Cardiff rd and Castle Court Shopping Centre, as well as a central stage in Twyn Car Park. The event will be host to local and headline musicians along with numerous food and drink stalls. There will also be workshops, craft sessions and a selection of funfair rides. For more info go to the Visit Caerphilly website, the official Facebook page, or the official Facebook event. For all event enquiries, please email events@caerphilly.gov.uk or call 01443 866390.
Moo-LA-LA FESTIVAL - Bear Field, Cowbridge CF71 7DA - Aug 2nd - This summer, something udderly fabulous is coming to Cowbridge – and you won’t want to miss it. hosted by the legendary Claire Sweeney, the iconic h from Steps, and everyone’s favourite, owain Wyn Evans, Cow is bringing the party to The Bear Field. Expect laughs, camp, sparkles, and maybe even a few surprises from your hosts throughout the day! Whether you grew up in the ‘70s, ‘80s , ‘90s or you’re all about today’s chart-toppers, there’s something for everyone. For more info visit: www.visitthevale. com/events/moo---la---la-festival
BIG WELSh BITE - Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, Pontypridd - August 2nd & 3rd, 10am5pm - It’s back! The 2 day food and drink festival made way for the national Eisteddfod of Wales in 2024 and plans are underway for a BIG return to Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, Pontypridd this summer! Updates available soon at www.bigwelshbite.co.uk.
CoWBrIDGE CoUNTY MArkETS IN ThE LESSEr hALL, CoWBrIDGE - held on the 1st & 3rd Friday of the month, between 9am & 11.30 am. We are a co-operative of local producers providing high quality, value for money, baked goods, preserves, seasonal vegetables, flowers & plants, as well as special craft (bespoke sewn items including bunting & cushions, and beautiful hallmarked silver items - earrings, bracelets, pendants & rings). Cowbridge Country Market started in 1967 as the WI Market. Country Markets Ltd was formed in 1995 as the business arm of the WI and since then the old ‘WI Markets’ have been rebranded. Our food producers are local home cooks with traditional skills and many use recipes handed down from their mothers and grandmothers. For more info contact the treasurer for orders or anyone interested in becoming a producer (carol.james@gmail.com)
BrYNGArW CoUNTrY PArk
Bridgend, rCT CF32 8UU
oUTDoor ThEATrE - Aug 4th at 5pm - The Wind in The Willows - pack your picnics and join Ratty, Mole, Badger, and the fantastically irrepressible Toad as they embark on the adventure of a lifetime culminating in a colourful battle to save Toad hall from the mischievous weasels. Aug 10th at 5pm - Folksy Theatre invites you to experience a brand new musical adaptation of this classic tale. Set against the enchanting backdrop of the eerie Sherwood Forest, this whimsical production sees King John and the Sheriff of nottingham trying to thwart the legendary outlaw, robin hood, and his band of merry men as they steal from the rich to give to the poor. For more info contact the Box Office on 03300 554488 or visit www.awenboxoffice.com to book.
PoNTYCLUN FooD & DrINk FESTIVAL - heol Yr orsaf, Pontyclun CF72 9Fr - Aug 23rd 12noon5pm - Indulge in a day filled with delicious treats and refreshing drinks. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a fun day out, with over 30 stalls this event is perfect for everyone. Sample a variety of cuisines, sip on craft beverages, and enjoy live entertainment. Don’t miss out on this tasty experience! For more info visit: www.pontyclun.net/food-and-drink-festival/
place
SINGING MAMAS - Beacon church, Cowbridge Every Friday at 1pm - A non judgemental supportive all age women’s singing circle. Little ones welcome. For more info email: niasingingmamas@hotmail.com
STrEET FooD CIrCUS AT ST DoNAT’S CASTLE - UWC Atlantic, St Donat’s Castle, St Donat’s, Llantwit Major, Vale of Glamorgan CF61 1WF - Aug 2nd & 3rd - street food, circus performances, family entertainment, a lido by the sea and after dark DJ. This year, the entertainment features the Artful Dodgems vintage roller rink, bringing roller skate pros and DJs to the roller disco. They are currently touring the UKs biggest music festivals including Big Feastival and Camp Bestival and arriving in Wales for one weekend at fantastic fete. For more info visit: www.streetfoodcircus.co.uk/fantastic-fete
GLAMorGAN QUILTErS - Ystradowen Village hall (behind the White Lion pub), Cowbridge rd, Ystradowen, CF71 7SY - have you ever wanted to try patchwork and quilting? Are you looking for a local quilting group? Glamorgan Quilters are holding an open Day on Saturday June 14, 2025 from 10.30am until 3pm. If you would like to see what belonging to a quilting group is like come and visit us for a chat, receive friendly tuition and watch members’ demonstrations. If you want to stay all day, please bring lunch; we will provide refreshments. For more info email Gabrielle on glamquilt@ gmail.com.
VALEWAYS GUIDED WALkS
Aug 3rd at 2pm – Coastal Footpath, meet at Rhoose railway station car park, CF62 3En For more info call Dave 07707 898720.
Aug 4th at 10.30am – Walking Books, meet at nant Talwg way, Barry, CF62 6LZ. For more info call Judy 07552 921201. Aug 7th at 9.30am – Church, college & mosaic, meet at Llantwit Major railway Station. For more info call Paul I 07828 508619.
Aug 10th at 2pm – Alun Valley Circular, meet at St St Brides major, Post office, CF32 0SB. For more info call Peter 07980 643869.
Aug 13th at 9.30am – Coychurch & Coity Castle, meet at Waterton rd, Coychurch, CF35 5En For more info call Shelia 07932 523415.
Aug 24th at 2pm – Dinas with a Difference!, meet at St Peter’s Church, Mill rd, Dinas Powys, CF64 4BY. For more info call Phil 07799 532767.
Aug 27th at 10am – Gileston Going East, meet at Gileston Beach car park, CF62 4hW. For more info call Shelia 07932 523415.
Aug 29th at 6pm – 1 Evening, 2 headlands & 3 beaches, meet at Cold Knap Terrace car park, Barry, CF62 6TA. For info call Lynne 07729 991491.
Aug 29th at 2pm – St Athan and the Thaw, meet at Llantwit rd, St Athan, CF71 7QA. For more info call Paul 07974 772102. For more info and details, visit: www.valeways.org.uk
ST DoNATS ChorALE SUMMEr TErM
C61 Community Centre, Station road, Llantwit Major CF61 1ST Meet on Monday evenings 7.30pm-9.30pm - we are a community choir - no auditions needed. All voices welcome. Don’t read music? no worries - we’ll help you along. We have just started our repertoire for the summer so why not come along and give us a try. no charge for the first sessions. ‘Those who wish to sing always find a song.’ (a Swedish proverb). Come and sing with us! For more info visit: www.stdonats.org
Cowbridge Travel
Discover
the World with Confidence – Why Booking with an Independent Travel Agent Makes All the Difference
In an age where holiday options seem endless and online deals flood your screen, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where the personal touch of an independent travel agent makes all the difference — and at Cowbridge Travel, we’re here to help turn your travel dreams into reality.
Tailored Travel, Just for You
As one of Wales’ largest independent travel agents, Cowbridge Travel offers something no online search engine can — genuine, personalised service. Our experienced team has travelled extensively and knows the difference between an average holiday and an unforgettable one. We listen to what you want and tailor your trip to suit your tastes, interests, and budget. Whether you’re planning an exotic adventure, an expedition cruise, a guided tour, a relaxing beach holiday, or a romantic city break, we work with a wide range of trusted suppliers to find the perfect fit — at the best possible price.
More Than Just holidays
We’re not just here to book your trip. We’re here to make the whole experience stress-free and enjoyable from the moment you step into our office. Call in for a friendly chat over a cuppa or even a glass of sparkling wine — our welcoming team is always happy to help. need currency for your travels? We also offer competitive foreign exchange rates, and we can order in exotic currencies to ensure you’re ready to go wherever the world takes you.
Service That Puts You First
At Cowbridge Travel, customer service is at the heart of everything we do. We’re passionate about creating memorable holidays and building long-lasting relationships with our clients. That’s why so many of our customers come back year after year — and recommend us to friends and family.
Why Choose an Independent Agent?
l Unbiased advice – we’re not tied to any one operator, so we find what’s right for you
l Expert knowledge – from personal travel experiences to insider tips
l ongoing support – before, during, and after your trip
l Peace of mind – we handle the details, so you don’t have to
So whether you’re dreaming of sunsets in Santorini, a safari in South Africa, or a Northern Lights adventure — pop into Cowbridge Travel and let’s start planning.
ThE WorLD IS WAITInG, AnD WE’rE hErE To hELP You ExPLorE IT
DEnTIST
Cowbridge Dental Care 01446 773284
Greenfield Dental Care, Dinas Powys 02920 515151
Wilson Road Dental Practice Ely 02920 594100
Wyndham House Dental Practice
Llantwit Major 01446 795240
DOCTORS
Cowbridge & Vale
Medical Practice 01446 772237
Cowbridge Health Centre 01446 772383
Dinas Powys Health Centre 02920 515455/512293
Eryl Surgery, Llantwit Major 01446 793444
Woodlands Medical Practice 02920 591444
Cowbridge Funeral Directors 01446 788681
Alcoholics Anonoymus 08457 697555
l home improvements
l windows
l UPvc & composite Doors
l french Doors
l replacement conservatory roofs
l Patio Doors
l flat roofs
l Porches
l carports
l conservatories
l orangeries
l bifolding Doors
much more than just a solid roof - choice of tiles, slate & velux windows the lekA warm roof advantages
Lightweight Construction
GRP (fibreglass) construction avoiding thermal bridging & risk of condensation as seen with aluminium & timber.
Achieves a U-Value of just 0.15W/m2k - JHAI building control approved The leKa roof wiTh exTerior Tiles & plasTered inTernal Ceiling looKs liKe a TradiTional exTension as well as saving on your energy bills.
“I cannot recommend The Tap End enough. They took my initial thoughts and inspiration and made it 10 times more amazing than I could have thought.” b & v - bridgend
