The Village Directory

8,500 CopIes: Beddau, LLantwIt Fardre, eFaIL IsaF, ChurCh VILLage, tonteg, CreIgIau, pontyCLun & taLBot green

edItor’s Letter

Hi Everyone sparks, CommunIty and ChrIstmas Cheer!

As the nights draw in, November brings with it a familiar sense of excitement. Bonfire Night lights up our skies with a celebration of warmth, togetherness, and the simple joy of gathering as a community. it’s a time when local parks glow with fireworks, hands are wrapped around hot chocolate, and neighbours meet by the fire to share stories and laughter.

That same spirit of connection carries us beautifully into the festive season. Across our towns, shop windows are beginning to twinkle, cafés are testing their Christmas specials, and local makers are preparing for the busiest - and most magical - time of the year!

This month, we’re shining a light on the brilliant businesses that keep our community thriving. from family-run businesses to new independents bringing fresh ideas to the high streets, November is the perfect time to shop local, support local, and celebrate everything that makes our area special.

So, as the bonfires fade and the fairy lights begin to glow, let’s carry that warmth forward — supporting one another, sharing in the excitement, and building up to a Christmas filled with local pride and genuine joy.

Here’s to sparks of inspiration, strong community spirit, and a season that shines bright for all!

if you would like to get your business into the homes of potential customers ready for Christmas and the New Year then why not give us a call ready for the December & january editions, you can drop us an email at: enquires@villagedirectory.co.uk or give us a call on 07971 648385 and we will be happy to help.

Until next month, happy reading!

Alison

Editor: Alison Jones

Advertising: Alison Jones & Lauren Whitfield

Studio & Design: Alison jones editorial: Alison jones

email: enquiries@village-directory.co.uk

web: www.village-directory.co.uk

Tel: 07971 648385

why do I need a LastIng power oF attorney (Lpa)?

if you lose mental capacity through illness (for example a stroke, dementia, or Alzheimer’s disease), or an accident, and haven’t created an LPA:

• You will no longer be able to choose who makes decisions and act for you (such as your spouse and children). You can only make your LPA while you still have mental capacity.

• A stranger appointed by the court such as a solicitor would end up making crucial decisions about you and your assets – where you will live, whether to accept medical treatment to keep you alive, what you eat and wear, and will control all your finances and your property.

• Your spouse, children or friends would have to apply to court to get permission to make decisions on your behalf and act for you – which is far more expensive and time-consuming than making an LPA and the court could refuse the application.

If you still have mental capacity, LPAs are a simple, inexpensive, and legally robust way of giving someone you trust the power to make decisions and act for you – either temporarily or long term should you lose capacity in the future.

To plan for this, you must create an LPA now whilst you still have mental capacity and so make things much easier for other people in your life.

Westminster Law are specialists in organising this.

at the heart oF the CommunIty For 60 years!

This year’s Christmas lights switch on at Beddau and Tynant Community Library promises to be very special, as the building celebrates its 60th birthday this year. Officially opened on November 30th 1965, the Library is sandwiched neatly between the Memorial Gardens and the Post Office in Tynant Road. The original provision for the village was a Library started and run by workers from the local Cwm Colliery in the Miners’ welfare. Then Glamorgan Council decided that the Library needed a publicly funded permanent home, and so the present Library was born, being extended in 2010.

it’s also ten years this year, since the Library was taken over by volunteers after proposals to close it altogether. it’s been run since by a volunteer Trustee Board, and staffed when open entirely by more than a dozen volunteers. Their work was recognised a couple of years ago with an award from the High Sherrif.

Being a volunteer run library has its drawbacks, including making sure there’s enough money to stay open, but it’s also allowed the Library to be more flexible. The building is available to hire to any group in the community for a one off or a more frequent booking; and there are now many established groups who meet there regularly, including the Monday Club which offers a speaker or activity; a reading group; creative writing; Tai Chi, and history groups; and on wednesday evenings, a group called the Cosy Circle which is dedicated to women’s wellbeing, with activities and speakers every wednesday evening.

The Library has always been more than just a place to borrow books. it’s been a welcoming space for so many over the years; a place to share news or just to have a friendly chat. At the heart of that since 1971 has been Librarian Carol Bowen, who started on a part time contract when people realised how busy the Library was! She’s still there today, at the heart of everything as a Trustee and Volunteer. She’s rightly proud of the role the Library continues to play in the village.

The Christmas event on friday November 28th from 5pm will be very special with not only the combined choir of all three primary schools in the village taking part, but also the Taff ely Ladies Choir who will both entertain and lead the communal Carol singing before the big switch on. father Christmas will be there too, allowing local families an affordable way to see the big man before he begins his present delivering travels. And very fittingly, the lights will be switched on by the woman who has been at the heart of the building at the heart of the community for so many years - Mrs Carol Bowen.

Junoon Arrives in Talbot Green

Where passion meets the flavours of South Asia

After years of family heritage, junoon has opened its doors in Talbot Green, bringing with it an unforgettable South Asian dining experience.

At Junoon, every dish is crafted with passion, using only the freshest and finest ingredients. Diners can indulge in favourites such as Butter Chicken Masala, Kosha Mangsho, Green Mango Tiger Prawn Curry, and the beautifully aromatic Dum Biryani — each dish a celebration of authentic flavour and culinary artistry.

junoon offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for both intimate dinners and special occasions. Their party menus make it easy to host gatherings and celebrations in true junoon style.

Already praised by local diners and earning five-star reviews on Google, Junoon has quickly become a must-visit restaurant in the area. food bloggers like wayne’s eats have also shared glowing reviews, highlighting the restaurant’s exquisite flavours and welcoming ambiance.

“A true taste of South Asia — right here in Talbot Green.”

Come and experience junoon — where every meal is more than food, it’s an expression of passion.

OPEN: Tuesday to Sunday 5pm-11pm 17-19 Talbot Rd, Talbot Green CF 72 8AD - 01443 704091

To place an advert in the Newtown Llantwit Directory telephone: 01443 204399

tonteg CommunIty Centre

Tuesday - 3pm, 5pm & 7pm

Call Caroline on 07894 140386

Beddau CommunIty Centre

wednesdays - 6.30pm

Thursday - 9.30am

LLantrIsant rFC, LLantrIsant every friday at 9.30am

Call Mel on 07881 698256

pontyprIdd rugBy CLuB wednesday - 9.30am & 11am Thursday - 5.30m & 7pm

pontyCLun CommunIty Centre

Saturday - 8.30am & 10.30am

Call Irene on 07846 416396

tonteg CommunIty Centre wednesday - 9am & 10.30am morganstown VILLage haLL friday 9am & 10.30am

Call Simone on 07980 898981

FInd us on

Christmas Events

PONTYCLUN

CHRISTMAS

TREE LIGHT SWITCH

ON Nov 22nd - Come join in for a magical evening as we light up the Christmas tree at the war Memorial gardens in Pontyclun! Bring your family and friends to enjoy delicious treats, join the singalong and of course, the highlight of the night - the lighting of the tree! Don’t miss out on this wonderful tradition that marks the start of the holiday season. See you there!

PONTYCLUN CHRISTMAS FAYRE

Dec 6th, 1pm-5pm - Heol Yr Orsaf, Pontyclun CF72 9EE - we have over 80 stalls selling everything you need to get in the festive spirit and maybe cross a few things off Santa’s list. Dec 6th & 7th - Nativity trail at Bethel Church. Dec 7th - Santa Run (search Pontyclun Santa Run for more details).

THE ROYAL MINT CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE

Ynysmaerdy, Pontyclun CF72 8YT - Nov 22nd to Dec 23rdMeet some extraordinary characters as you venture through Santa’s enchanting workshop & discover timeless tales of Christmas traditions that begin with a single coin. This experience is perfect for children though we suspect the older folk might have even more fun! it does not include a factory tour. For more info visit: www.royalmint.com/theroyal-mint-experience/christmas/

CAERPHILLY MINI FESTIVE FAIR

(including Caerphilly’s Christmas light switch-on, River of Light Lantern Parade and Fireworks Display Nov 21st 12pm-7pm- Join in the first Mini Festive Fair in Caerphilly town centre to coincide with the town’s Christmas Lights Switch-on, with the annual river of Light Lantern Parade and Fireworks Display also taking place the same day. The standalone Caerphilly Christmas Market will take place on Saturday 29th November.

RIVER OF LIGHT LANTERN MAKING WORKSHOPS - Nov 8th, 9th, 15th & 16th - The workshops will take place from 10am until 5pm at The Twyn Community Centre. This event is organised by Caerphilly County Borough Council and funded by Caerphilly Town Council. For more information email: events@caerphilly.gov.uk or call 01443 866390.

LLANTRISANT VILLAGE CAROLS

VILLage CaroLs - Dec 18th 7pm at St. David’s Church, School Road, Miskin. A Christmas evening with Cor y Bryn and friends. entry free, collection in aid of homelessness charities.

SANTA’S TOY MINE

Rhondda Heritage Park, Coedcae Rd, South Wales CF37

2NP - Nov 22nd to Dec 24th - A festive wonderland where families and school groups can embark on a heartwarming adventure to find Santa deep within the mine. Join our toy miners on a journey bursting with festive wonder and excitement. follow your toy miner guide deep into Santa’s Toy Mine, where you’ll meet more merry miners and uncover magical surprises around every corner. But when you reach Santa’s Grotto, the big question remains… is he in? For more info or tickets visit: www.rhonddaheritagepark. com or you can call 01443 682036.

CHRISTMS EVENTS AT ST DONAT’S CASTLE

UWC Atlantic, St Donat’s Castle, St Donat’s, Llantwit Major, Vale of Glamorgan, CF61 1WF

Festive Cafe Concert by Students of UWC Atlantic - nov 28th, 4pm-5pm - tickets £6.50 includes a serving of tea or coffee or alcoholic-free mulled wine and mince pie.

Christmas Fayre at St Donat’s Castle - Dec 6th & 7th, 10am-1pm & 1pm-4pm - a weekend of full shopping, food, entertainment and magical memories for the whole family. Tickets £14 per car or £3 on food.

Watch Polar Express - Dec 13th, 2pm-5.30pm - Tickets £21.50-£34.50.

Watch Home Alone - Dec 14th, 2pm-5.30pm. Tickets £21.50£34.50.

St Donat’s Castle Tour and Festive Afternoon Tea - Dec 15th, 1.30pm & 2.30pm. Tickets £36.95.

For more info on above events at St Donat’s Castle - visit: www.uwcatlanticexperience.com/event/

TOWER GROTTO

Zip World Tower, Hirwaun, CF44 9UF - Nov 21st to Dec 24th - experience Christmas joy in this classic, traditional grotto, where Santa & his team of elves await. Begin with a delicious mince pie & hot chocolate/mulled wine, before heading over to the grotto. Meet the man himself & receive a special welsh slate bauble, which you can take to the decoration station. Try your hand at letter crafting, before taking home your very own letter. opt for a yummy bite to eat too from the delicious Cegin-Glo menu, where you will find a few festive favourites. For more info call 01248 601444 or email: liam.willetts@zipworld.co.uk. Visit www.zipworld. co.uk/tower-christmas-grotto

PENARTH CHRISTMAS LIGHT SWITCH ON Windor Rd, Penarth, CF64 1JE - Nov 16th, 3pm-7pm - join in for a day of festive fun, live music, street theatre, rides, stalls, crafts and food and drink.

LLANTRISANT CHRISTMAS ON THE HILLTOP:

A weekend of family fun throughout the Old Town. Friday 5th Dec to Sunday 7th Dec. Llantrisant Guild Hall, Llantrisant Parish Church, Llantrisant Community Council and rCT join forces to provide assorted activities over the weekend. from ice rinks, fairground rides and treasure hunts to afternoon tea with elves, father Christmas and the Christmas Tree festival. Llantrisant has it all. Please check website for details of timings of individual activities.

BEDDAU & TYNANT CAROLS AT THE LIBRARY:

Friday 28th Nov, 5pm-7.30pm. Come and join the local school choirs, and Taff ely Ladies Choir for family fun and singing around the Christmas tree. who knows Santa may even be there!

TALBOT GREEN COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS FUN:

Sunday 14th Dec, 3pm-5.30pm. family activities at Talbot Green Community Centre followed by carols with rCT Community wind Band.

For more information on all events above please visit our website: www.llantrisant-cc.gov.wales

COWBRIDGE CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Nov 13th-Jan 4th - The famous Cowbridge Reindeer Parade is back! Come and see father Christmas and his reindeer, along with elsa & Ana, local choirs and musicians and Santa’s Grotto. Light switch on with former wales & British Lions Captain Gareth “Alfie” Thomas at 16.45pm.

Nov 29th & 30th, 11am-5pm - Christmas Markets & Santa’s Grotto.

SIP & SNIP - WREATH MAKING EVENING

Courts, Penarth Rd, Llandough, Penarth, CF64 1ND

Nov 25th at 7pm - This isn’t your average wreath-making class… it’s a celebration! join us for a lively, prosecco-fuelled workshop where you’ll create a stunning seasonal wreath while soaking up Christmas tunes, spritz cocktails and good vibes. with 90 minutes of bubbly, torgeous seasonal foliage & luxe embellishments, expert guidance with a side of sass, Christmas music, nibbles, mince pies and plenty of laughs, plus your own handcrafted wreath to take home and show off. Tickets £55 per person. Spaces are limited – book now before the fizz runs out! For tickets, email us at hello@courtscardiff.co.uk

NOV & DEC EVENTS AT HOLY TRINITY CHURCH, LLANDOW

Remembrance Sunday Service - Nov 9th at 6pm.

Taize Service - Nov 30th at 6pm.

Christingle Service - Dec 14th at 4pm.

Dec 21st at 4pm - Celebration of Christmas in words & Music Dec 24th at 4pm - Christmas Crib Service. Dec 24th at 9.30pm - Christmas eve eucharist For details contact Penny Newman 07939173080

FESTIVE CONCERT AND SING-ALONG

“IT’S COMING ON CHRISTMAS” 2025. Saturday 29th November. 7pm. Cowbridge United Free Church. with Music in Mind are back with another festive fundraising concert featuring vocal duo Indigo May. Join two firmer members of the Grammy awardwinning acapella group The Swingle Singers - Meinir and julie for a cosy evening of song, harmony and their trademark vocal blend. Polish off the night with a festive sing-along and a tipple. Bar opens at 6:30pm. Concert starts at 7pm. Tickets are available from: info@withmusicinmind.co.uk

MILL STREET QUARTER CHRISTMAS MARKET

Mill St, Pontypridd- Dec 13th, 11am-3pm - join in for the annual Christmas market with some fantastic stalls, some fab shops and the lovely ambience of Christmas in Pontypridd. Grab a book from Storyville Books at their Christmas Book fair, join Martha’s Homestore with a Christmas Crafts workshop and grab a mulled wine from Zucco!

CHRISTMAS WREATH-MAKING

St Hilary Village Hall, Church Crescent, Cowbridge - Nov 22nd at 1pm-3pm & 7pm-9pm - we have 3 classes planned, led by the wonderful Gail Armytage florist Cowbridge - £59.95 per person to include: all tools and equipment, handmade wreath or garland to take home, mulled wine, mince pies and sweet treats. Bookings now open!

CHRISTMAS AT BUTE PARK, CARDIFF

Nov 21st-Dec 31st - Take a mile long stroll through an enchanted world of illumination, uniquely crafted by world leading lighting designers. enjoy 15 different light zones, a truly mesmerising journey in the shadow of the historic Cardiff Castle, around the picturesque Bute Park. To top it all off – we have our Christmas Village full of cracking local food, delicious drinks and plenty of festive cheer! For more info visit: www.christmasatbutepark.com/

CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING

WORKSHOP AT PONTYCLUN RUGBY CLUB

Llantrisant Rd, Pontyclun - Nov 27th at 6.30pm - Come along for a fun and relaxed evening of Christmas wreath making with Louise from the Flower Pot. Enjoy a glass of fizz and a mince pie while creating your very own beautiful Christmas wreath. Tickets £45 per person - limited spaces available. To book your place contact 07886 986353.

CARDIFF’S WINTER WONDERLAND

Nov 30th starts at 12pm - Cardiff Castle transforms into a magical winter escape, featuring an open-air ice trail & an undercover ice rink. The enchanting ice trail weaves through the scenic castle grounds, offering a unique skating experience beneath the stars. for those who prefer to skate under shelter, the undercover ice rink provides a festive atmosphere, perfect for families and friends. For more info visit: www. cardiffswinterwonderland.com/attractions

BARRY CHRISTMAS LIGHT SWITCH ON

Kings Square, Barry CF63 4RW - Nov 22nd, 10am-6.15pm - festive fun from 10am with Christmas light switch on at 7pm. with live music, street entertainment, festive market plus lots more...

Events in your local area this November

TAFF ELY FOODBANK - Pontyclun RFC, Llantrisant Rd, Pontyclun CF72 9DQ - Nov 27th, 28th & 29th - A three day collection will be held at Tesco Extra, Green Park, Talbot Green, Pontyclun CF72 8RB. We would love people to donate as Christmas is always a tough time. You can give food or money, both are gratefully received. we also have a Baby Bank that you can donate to (more information can be found on our website). For more info visit: www.fb.me/ e/8W5qZNqMZ - donate directly: Harvest Crowdfunder

Carry on ChoIr - New rock and pop choir every Tuesday 7.30pm-9pm at The Carpenters Arms, efailisaf. For more info call 07957 908015 or visit www.carryonchoir.wales. everyone (18+) welcome. Laugh as you learn!

pontyCLun BranCh oF the BrItIsh sugarCraFt guILd - Llanharran Senior Citizens Centre, Llanharry Road, Llanharran CF72 9RL - Nov 10th, 7pm - Alex Hughes will be demonstrating the poinsetta shown in photo. For more info email: bsgpontyclun@yahoo.com or adallan49@gmail. com.

tonteg wI - Meet at the Carnegie Parish Hall, Church Village - 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm, with a guest speaker at most meetings. other regular activities include walks, a book club and a gardening group. outings and special events are organised throughout the year. New members welcome. For more info e-mail sue.sherry@btinternet.com

CREIGIAU COMMUNITY MARKET - at The Church Hall, Cardiff Rd, Creigiau (50yds from Tesco) - every 2nd Sat of the month. Come early & enjoy bacon butties between 9am-11am or home made cake 10am-12noon; all served in Cafe Coffi, where you can sort out the problems of the world with friends, new and old. There are a large range of stalls from organic meats, vegetables, dairy products, free range eggs, artisan breads, all sourced from local farms, smallholders and producers. free entry. If you are interested in trading at the Market, contact Jennynelmes@hotmail.com for details.

CHURCH VILLAGE WI - Tonteg Community Centre ( the hut) on the main road in Tonteg - Every 2nd Thursday each month at 1.30pmthinking of joining a wi, but don’t like going out in the evenings? Then why don’t you join Church Village wi we have speakers, a coffee morning and various events throughout the year. Ring Eve on 07546 358221 to find out more.

PROBUS CLUB OF PONTYPRIDD - The Ship Inn, Crown Hill, Llantwit Fardre - First Thursday of the month at 10.30am - come and join us for talks, drinks and lunch. You would be most welcome. For more info call 01443 207242.

CWM TAF NHS RETIREMENT GROUP - Sports and Social Club, Central Park, Church Village - Have you retired from one of the NHS services (hospitals, GP, dentists , ambulance service or any other NHS service) if so perhaps you would like to come along to our group, we meet once a month in the Sports and Social Club on the 1st friday of the month from 2pm-4pm. we have a speaker covering very varied topics, a Christmas lunch, a lunch to celebrate St Davids Day and some day trips and holidays. its a friendly group and we would be pleased to welcome you. If you would like some further info get in touch with Colin Robson 07544568222 or Pat Doyle 07791190861. BrIdgend soroptImIsts - Heronston Hotel Bridgend Nov 12th - Business Meeting, 7pm Heronston Hotel. Nov 26th - Supper/speaker Meeting. Speaker from Bridgend food Bank. 6.30pm Heronston Hotel. follow us on facebook. New members welcome. Follow us on Facebook www. facebook.com/BridgendSoroptimists

LLantrIsant & dIstrICt proBus CLuB - meet at 10.30am at Pontyclun Rugby Club - The next meeting Nov 10th will be a talk on ‘George T Clark and Talygarn’ by rhodri. New members always welcome. For further info contact the Sec Rhodri Powell on 01443 230382.

LLantrIsant & dIstrICt hIstory soCIety meet on the 2nd Tues of the month at 7pm at Pontyclun Community Hall - The next meeting will be Nov 11th and will be a talk on ‘The Newport Transporter Bridge’ by jeff Grosvenor. New members always welcome. For further info contact Rhodri Powell on 01443 230382. Cwm taFF nhs retIrement group meet at the Llantwit Fadre Sports Club at 2pm - The next meeting will be Nov 7th and will be a talk on ‘1st Ladies of America’ by Geoff Henderson. New members always welcome. For further info about the Group contact Rhodri Powell on 01443 230382.

GARTH OLWG U3A - Meet at 2pm on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at Garth Olwg Lifelong Learning Centre, Church Village - The Speaker for our November meeting is Simon osborne whose talk is entitled ‘A Christmas Carol’. we all thoroughly enjoyed Simon’s last visit to us when he presented a History of the Police in costume with artefacts and props.‘Simon is going to tell the story of why Dickens felt compelled to write ‘A Christmas Carol’ in 1843 and how it has influenced how we’ve looked at Christmas ever since. So, calling all Third Agers (that’s all you retirees and semi-retirees in our local community), come and listen to Simon’s presentation and, at the same time, see what your local branch of U3A is all about. You can be certain of the warmest of welcomes. Don’t be put off by the ‘University’ in our title. in our branch, that doesn’t refer to courses, assessments and that kind of formal learning, we’re all about keeping our minds and bodies active, and therefore learning, through social activities like joining interest groups, visiting places of interest, listening to visiting speakers, going out for group lunches, playing board games, joining quiz teams and other informal and enjoyable experiences. And to our current members, why not encourage a friend (or two) to come with you. Annual membership is just £15pp and includes a monthly Branch Newsletter and a ‘Third Age Matters’ magazine five times per year. You can also find out more about us by visiting our web page http://gartholwg.u3asite. uk. our branch tries to offer something to please everyone. For more info on any of the above, call Lorraine Moran 07976 534 672.

MESSY CHURCH - Creigiau Church Hall, Creigiau - Every 3rd Sun of the month, 4pm5.30pm - a new way of ‘doing church’ for families with children, has taken off in a big way! The hall lends itself to an informal setting for a mix of crafts, games and activities followed by a short Celebration, leading into an afternoon tea - a chance for the family to play, eat and spend time together before returning to the normal hectic schedule of school, work and stress! The best news is that all this is free! All children aged 0-12 years are welcome with an adult or guardian. Tel: Jenny 02920 892510 for further details.

LLantrIsant mInIstry area dementIa support groupMeet every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month in Llantrisant Parish Hall, Swan St, Llantrisant from 11am to 1.30pm. we are a group for those living with the condition and for their carers. we are supported by the local NHS memory team. Tea and coffee and biscuits are provided but if you wish to stay for the whole session, please bring your own lunch. For more details ring Len Morris on 07802723733 or email supportgroup@ parishofllantrisant.org

gwynFa Camera CLuB - Meet every Thursday, 7.15pm at Caerlan Hall, Llantrisant - Do you have an interest in photography? would you like to take better photo’s? Do you want a friendly welcome? we have professional guest speakers, competitions, workshops and much more. The Autumn/winter programme includes Bill ward of emmerdale / Coronation Street (Landscape photography), Cate Barrow (Wildlife photography), Gabor Horvath (Aquarium photography), Peter Crane (Street photography). We also have a deer rut photography workshop at Margam Park. For more info visit: www.gwynfa.org.uk

Move More, Feel Better - with Chair FitSteps!

Gentle, joyful exercise to music you’ll love.

Looking for a way to stay active that’s fun, friendly, and designed with all abilities in mind? Come and try Chair FitSteps - a seated dance fitness class inspired by the magic of Strictly Come Dancing. No dance experience needed — just a willingness to have a go and enjoy yourself.

i’m Cheryl, and i’ve been running fitSteps in our community for over 2 years. My chair-based classes are perfect for anyone who wants to improve their mobility, flexibility, and moodall while having fun to fabulous music in a warm, welcoming group.

CLasses heLd at:

Ty Illtud Community Centre, St. Illtyds Rd, Church Village, CF38 1DB - Tuesdays 2pm-3pm

Taffs Well Village Hall , 83 Cardiff Road, Taffs Well , CF15 7PLWednesdays 10am-11am

For more info contact Cheryl on 07712 191024

empowerIng women through menopause

for many women, menopause can feel like an unexpected storm — unpredictable, overwhelming, and isolating. i know this all too well, because i’ve been there. My own menopause journey was one of anxiety, panic attacks, brain fog, joint and pelvic health. i felt disconnected from myself, my joy, and my sense of purpose. eventually, i resigned from my job because i simply couldn’t cope. Looking back, i realise that a lack of understanding on my part and from the health professionals i turned to left me feeling lost.

That experience became the turning point that led me to become a Menopause wellness Coach. Today, my mission is clear: to educate and empower women from peri- to post-menopause to take charge of their health, rediscover their confidence, and embrace this new phase of life with clarity and optimism.

Through my work, i offer one-to-one coaching sessions, as well as group workshops and courses designed for both individuals and foarward-thinking businesses that want to support their staff through menopause. whether i’m working privately with a woman navigating difficult symptoms or delivering sessions to groups of women, these sessions are educational, empowering and often deeply healing. They provide not just information, but communication and community, which is often what is missing during this time.

Menopause is not just about hormones. it’s about the whole woman — her body, her mind, her emotions, and her sense of identity. in my sessions, we cover all aspects of menopause: from HrT and alternative treatments to nutrition, lifestyle, exercise, and pelvic and body health. Every woman’s journey is unique, so I help clients find the balance and approach that works best for them, not what works for everyone else. whilst the menopause can certainly bring challenges, it can also bring incredible transformation. once we begin to understand what’s happening to our bodies and take steps to support ourselves, this stage of life can become a powerful and enlightening time. I can honestly say that this is my favourite decade yet — one filled with selfknowledge, laughter, and renewed purpose. what sets my coaching apart is empathy and authenticity. i don’t just talk about menopause — i’ve lived it. i know the fear that comes with anxiety, brain fog, sleepless nights, the frustration of feeling invisible, and the longing to “feel like yourself again.” That’s why i bring not only professional guidance but also a genuine sense of humour and compassion to every conversation.

if you feel something needs to change — that you deserve to feel better, calmer, and more in control — then i’m here for you. This is your journey, but you don’t have to walk it alone. Together, we can create a menopause experience that is empowering, balanced, and even joyful.

Because menopause isn’t the end of something — it’s the beginning of a new, wiser, stronger chapter.

If you feel you deserve better, get in touch. Let’s make this your time to thrive. Get in touch 07988 955507 - www.menopausecoaching.co.uk on facebook

Themenopausewellnesscoach or Instagram the menopause wellness coach

l Comprehensive eye examinations

l wide range of frames including exclusive designer brands

l Contact lenses

l Hi-Tech fundus imaging & oCT Scanning Technology

l eHew Accredited

l registered for Low Vision Assessments

Please check website or phone for current practice information.

Local remembrance Services

Sunday, 9th november

LLANTRISANT, The Bullring at 10.45am. Organised by Llantrisant War Memorial Committee.

BEDDAU, The Memorial Garden, Parish Rd. at 10.45am.

CHURCH VILLAGE The Carniegie Parish Hall from 12noon following the service at St Illtyd’s Church. Everyone is welcome.

LLANHARAN, The War Memorial, The Square at 10.45am.

BRYNNA, The War Memorial at St Peter’s Church, Heol Dewi at 10.45am.

PONTYPRIDD REMEMBRANCE PARADE & SERVICE at 10.35am at Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, Pontypridd. join us at the annual remembrance Service event to commemorate British Service members who have died in wars and other military conflicts since the onset of World War One.

GROESFAEN - from 1pm at the War Memorial Bus Shelter at Groesfaen village green. All are welcome to partake of light refreshments at St David’s Church following the service. pontyCLun at 10.45am at Pontyclun Cenotaph. mIskIn commencing 10.55am at the War Memorial in Miskin. There will be a short service of remembrance at the war Memorial followed by a service of communion in St David’s Church.

TAFFS WELL Nov 8th at 10.45am. All are welcome to join us.

penCoed from 9.30am lasting 2-3 hours. Service will be held at the Cenotaph.

BrIdgend 10am-12pm. takes place in Bridgend Town Centre. A civic outdoor military event, which will include a military Parade.

CARDIFF Wales National War Memorial, Alexandra Gardens, Cathays Park, at 11am, the event, hosted by the Cardiff Council and welsh Government in collaboration with the royal British Legion, will feature military detachments, ex-service personnel, and community choirs.

local fir E work Ev ENts 2025

PONTYPRIDD BIG BANG 2025! Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, Pontypridd - Nov 1st , 5pm - The biggest fireworks event in South Wales is back for 2025! with fairground and street food. Hosted by the Pontypridd & Rhondda Roundtable, all funds raised go to local causes. www.pontybigbang25.co.uk

FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA - at Llantrisant & Pontyclun Golf Club, Ely Valley Rd, Talbot Green - Nov 1st at 6pm. Get ready for an epic night of fireworks - it’s gonna be a blast! With a spectacular show that will light up the sky. A night of music, food, drinks and stunning display of colors & patterns. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience. For more info and tickets call 01443 228169 or email: info@llantrisantgolfclub.com.

VALE RESORT SPECTACULAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY - The Vale Resort - Hensol Rd, Pontyclun CF72 8JY - Nov 2nd, gates open at 5.30pm, display at 7pm. Bring the family along and prepare to be dazzled as we light up the sky and illuminate the Vale of Glamorgan. For More info and tickets visit: www.valeresort.com

SOPHIAWORKS FIREWORKS DISPLAY - Sophia Gardens, Cardiff - Nov 5th from 5pm - Back with a bang for 2025! The biggest fireworks night in Cardiff. An evening of live music, family entertainment including a funfair ride, street food and spectacular fireworks display. For more info or to book tickets email tickets@glamorgancricket.co.uk or call 02920 419311.

BARRY TOWN FIREWORK DISPLAY AT JENNER PARK STADIUM - Nov 1st from 5pm - Barry Rd, Barry CF63 1BJ - Barry Town United AfC presents their annual firework display. Adults £5 kids £3. For more info call: 07921 582890.

BARRY RFC FIREWORKS DISPLAY - Reservoir Fields, Merthyr Dyfan Rd, Barry CF62 9TH - Nov 5th from 5.30pm - Tickets £5 acults, £2 child, available via Barry RFC APP.

PENARTH ATHLETIC CLUB FIREWORKS FIESTA - Lavernock Rd, Penarth CF64 3QH - Nov 5th from 6.30pm - Hot food and drink will be available with licensed bars.

rIVer oF LIght eVent In CAERPHILLY - Caerphilly Town Centre - join in the fun with a fabulous festive parade in Caerphilly town centre, followed by a spectacular fireworks display above the skies of Caerphilly Castle on friday 21st Nov. This fantastic parade, which is organised by Caerphilly County Borough Council and funded by Caerphilly Town Council, will start at St Martin’s School, before travelling down Cardiff Road and finally finishing in The Twyn Car Park To make a lantern to take part in the parade, why not visit the free river of Light Lantern-Making workshops! The workshops will take place from 10am-5pm in The Twyn Community Centre on Saturday 8th, Sunday 9th, Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th November. For more info email: events@ caerphilly.gov.uk or call: 01443 866390. Visit: www.caerphilly.

com/events

FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR at Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol Rd, Hensol CF72 8GG - Nov 7th at 6pm. A familyfriendly event promising an unforgettable experience with a spectacular array of entertainment. Prepare to be amazed by the exhilarating fireworks display. Please note that this is a ticketed event. we highly recommend pre-booking to secure your place and avoid disappointment, as admission will not be granted without a valid ticket. For more info call 01443 222716 or email: info@llanerch.co.uk