you are over 60 it will cost you only £95* for us to prepare your Will. We are also Lasting Power of Attorney Specialists - only £110* each LPA if instructed during the Will appointment.
Merry Christmas!
A huge thank you to all our wonderful readers and customers for your support throughout the year. We’re so grateful for every one of you! Wishing you a festive season filled with joy, laughter and plenty of sparkle.
The rst arti cial Christmas trees were made of goose feathers. In 19th-century Germany, people dyed feathers green and wired them together to save real trees from being cut down.
Japan’s favourite Christmas meal is KFC. A 1970s marketing campaign, “Kentucky for Christmas,” became so successful that people now preorder buckets weeks in advance.
Spider webs are considered lucky Christmas decorations in Ukraine. Based on an old folktale, Ukrainians hang glittering spider ornaments on trees for good fortune.
During World War I, soldiers on both sides stopped ghting for a Christmas truce.
In 1914, British and German troops came out of their trenches, exchanged gifts, and even played football together.
A town in Peru settles grudges on Christmas Day by st ghting. It’s called Takanakuy, and after the ghts, everyone starts the new year on good terms.
The song Jingle Bells was originally written for Thanksgiving.
James Lord Pierpont wrote it in 1857 for his church’s Thanksgiving performance — Christmas just adopted it later.
Rudolph was created to sell colouring books.
The red-nosed reindeer was invented in 1939 by Robert L. May for a Montgomery Ward department store giveaway.
Norway hides all the brooms on Christmas Eve.
Folklore says witches and evil spirits come out that night looking for broomsticks to ride.
The world’s largest Christmas cracker was over 200 feet long. Pulled in Australia in 1998, it measured 63 metres and contained a giant hat and joke inside.
In 1965, astronauts broadcast Jingle Bells from space as a prank.
Gemini 6 astronauts secretly smuggled a harmonica and sleigh bells onboard and pretended to report a UFO before playing the tune.
There’s a village in Peru called “Christmas.”
The village Navidad celebrates with reworks, food, and parades every year — all month long.
Christmas used to be illegal in parts of America.
In the 1600s, the Puritans of Massachusetts banned it, considering it a sinful, frivolous celebration.
Reindeer eyes change colour in winter. In the Arctic, their eyes shift from gold in summer to deep blue in winter to adapt to low light.
Santa didn’t always wear red. He was depicted in green, blue, and brown until Coca-Cola’s 1930s adverts popularised the red-suited image we know today.
There’s a Christmas market inside a cave. Valkenburg in the Netherlands hosts an underground market in old limestone tunnels every year.
The Queen’s (now King’s) Christmas Message began on radio in 1932. It was written by Rudyard Kipling, author of The Jungle Book.
‘Xmas’ isn’t a modern abbreviation — it’s ancient Greek.
The “X” comes from the Greek letter Chi, the rst letter of Christos (Christ).
‘Silent Night’ was written because a church organ broke.
In 1818, an Austrian priest needed a song for Christmas Eve, so he wrote Stille Nacht to be played on guitar instead.
With the ongoing developments and evolution of conservatory roofs, we have examined the options available for homeowners looking to maximise the potential of their living space.
Whether you want to expand your current space or improve an existing conservatory, there are a number of products on the market that have significantly altered the home improvement market in recent years.
Traditional Edwardian Conservatory
Due to relatively low cost, the traditional conservatory is still the most popular choice for extended living space. Conservatories over 5 years old or those fitted recently with inefficient glass or polycarbonate roofs, are often too cold to use during the coldest winter months and too hot to use during the middle of summer. However, as a result of much investment into energy efficient products over the last 5 years, our conservatories utilise the same technology as our A+ rated windows and doors, meaning radiation heat gain is reduced in the summer and conduction heat loss is reduced in the winter, making the conservatory more useable during the seasonal extremes. With a range of shapes and sizes available, we can extend your living space for a modest outlay.
Orangeries are increasing in popularity recently due to their grand visual aesthetics and opulent accessories. This stunning building floods the adjoining rooms with light, whilst the interior height of the Orangery creates the feeling of grandeur that is sure to appeal to the discerning homeowner. Whether you prefer a brick pillar look with matching parapet, or vertical columns and a decorative fascia, we have options to compliment and suit every taste.
LivinROOM
Our Livin Rooms combine the best of both worlds, giving you the light of a conservatory but the feel of an extension. You can maintain light and space by
using windows all round, have brickpiers to give a greater sense of solidity or use our super - insulated Loggia columns for a stylish, thermally efficient finish. The internal pelmet also allows you to install downlighters, giving you an authentic Orangery experience at a conservatory price point.
Conservatory with LivinROOF interior
LivinRoof is the first roofing system designed to give you the flexibility to combine solid and glazed roofing seamlessly. It helps you extend your living space and enhance thermal performance to give you a room that you can use all year round.
Whether you are constructing a new home extension or replacing an old existing conservatory roof ,the LivinROOF can give you total design flexibility and the ability to create stylish and thermally efficient rooms like no other solution on the market. The LivinROOF can be installed on top of any shape conservatory, allowing you as many or as few glazing panels as you require. Plastered on the inside, the LivinROOF provides a truly superb extended living solution.
Our WARMroof technology enables homeowners to remove the traditional choice between a conventional extension and a conservatory. These highly functional, flexible and luxurious living spaces are suitable for both new installations and conservatory replacement projects, providing you with a living space that is comfortable whatever the outside temperature. Giving a cosy but grandiose feel inside, the clever use of modern building materials allows the additional living space to blend seamlessly with the existing home. With a range of tiled roofs options and traditional or contemporary designs, we can cater for all types of extension or replacement roofs.
Great service and excellent product. From first contact with John the salesman through to plasterers, electricians and Anthony and Dan who built the conservatory, all were very professional and friendly. I will definitely be asking the company to replace my windows in due course and would highly recommend Falcon Installations to anyone considering any home improvements. - Sian Miles
Great to deal with. Visited the store and so much helpful info was given. We ordered a new door and it was fitted promptly. A few weeks later we decided we needed a door knocker which we hadn't ordered. They sent someone up and fitted it without extra charge. What more can one say? - Phil Gardner
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Across
1 Motion (8)
5 Reveal (4)
8 Furrowed (5)
9 Well-liked (7)
11 Be determined (7)
12 Purloin (5)
13 Wanton destroyer (6)
15 Soft breeze (6)
18 Anaesthetic (5)
20 Parentless children (7)
23 Wandering (7)
24 Group of lions (5)
25 Network (4)
26 Dusk (8)
1 Middle-distance runner (5)
2 Deer meat (7)
3 Pattern (5)
4 A male relative (6)
6 Divide by two (5)
7 Songbird (7)
10 Arti cial gems (5)
13 Asian country (7)
14 Pungent (5)
16 Title at top of page (7)
17 Russia's capital (6)
19 Church songs (5)
21 Part of the eye (5)
22 Bed covering (5)
Laser Hair Removal
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Skin Tags
• Thread Veins
Anti-Wrinkle Injections
Collagen Stimulation
Pelvic Floor Strengthening
Intimate Rejuvenation
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Hyperhidrosis Injections for Excessive Sweating
Vitamin B7 & B12 Injections
IV Vitamin Infusions
Fat Dissolving Injections
• Skin Boosters
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• Chemicl Peels
Thread Veins / Skin Tags
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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 ATRADITIONAL EXTENSION AS WELLAS SAVING ON YOUR ENERGY BILLS.
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. e 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 rst partner, their Will speci es that their share of the property is placed into trust and names the ultimate bene ciary of this share, normally the children of the deceased. e 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 bene ciaries. As the surviving partner does not own the deceased's share of the property it is fully protected for the bene ciaries, so if the surviving partner requires care, or even remarries, this share of the children's inheritance is protected. is last point can be of particular interest to couples who have come together but have children from di erent 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.
Book Review by Tessa Blissett
The Kabul Beauty School by
Deborah Rodriguez
When American hairdresser
Deborah Rodriguez travelled to Afghanistan in May 2002 with non-profit organisation Care for All Foundation ( CAAF), she little expected to be there almost five years later. In those intervening years, she established the eponymous school and salon, which not only provided beauty and hairdressing services to Afghan and Western women but also gave young Afghan women an opportunity to learn skills which would enable them to earn an impressive income- all while trying to placate some Afghan men who disapproved.
When Afghanistan fades from the headlines, the news reports we see and hear regarding Afghan women’s lives recede in our memories, but this memoir, based on Debbie’s experiences and the stories of her students and colleagues, has some harrowing passages.
In the two decades since it was written, I have feared that the situation for women has sadly changed and deteriorated. This is not an easy read, but one I recommend.
Happy Reading!
20 YEAR WARRANTY 50-year plus life span expectancy Firestone EPDM Registered Installer Extensions, Verandas, Porches, Garages. Superior durability, seamless sheets in 1 piece, very low lifecycle cost, easy installation.
Flat roofing. We supply and fit Firestone EPDM Rubber Roof Systems. Cost effective, waterproof, long lasting and low maintenance.
A local business with a reputation for providing high quality workmanship, at competitive prices. With over 40 years experience in the home improvement and roofing trades, you can rest assured you are dealing with professionals.
Toughened flat roof lanterns. Can be installed to existing roofs, we do it all: lighting, insulation, re-boarding ceilings and plastering.
As the nal page of the calendar turns, December arrives wrapped in glitter, warmth and nostalgia. It’s a month that invites us to slow down and look back, even as it sparkles with anticipation for what’s to come. From the twinkling lights that line our streets to the comforting scent of cinnamon and pine, December is more than just a time of year – it’s a feeling.
There’s something undeniably magical about December. The early sunsets and crisp air seem to make every light shine brighter. Across towns and villages, windows glow with fairy lights and decorations, creating a shared sense of joy and togetherness. Whether it’s a traditional tree adorned with heirloom baubles or a simple wreath on the front door, every sparkle tells a story of home, comfort and hope.
Christmas markets spring up with stalls selling hand-crafted gifts, mulled wine, and roasted chestnuts. Local high streets come alive with shoppers wrapped in scarves and smiles, searching for the perfect present or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere. Even the most ordinary errand carries a little extra magic in December.
December is a month built on generosity. Beyond the presents wrapped under the tree, it’s about the smaller acts of kindness – checking in on a neighbour, donating to a local food bank, or sending a heartfelt card. There’s a special joy that comes from giving without expecting anything in return, and it’s this spirit that makes the season truly shine.
For local businesses, December is also a time of gratitude. The year’s hard work culminates in a urry of festive trade, and communities come together to support independent shops, makers and markets. It’s a reminder that when we buy local, we’re not just purchasing a product – we’re helping to sustain dreams, livelihoods and community spirit.
Amid the rush of wrapping paper, parties and plans, December gently encourages re ection. It’s a time to pause, look back on the months gone by, and feel proud of how far we’ve come. Maybe it’s been a year of growth, challenge, or change – but every December, we’re given the gift of perspective.
For many, the quiet days between Christmas and New Year are a favourite stretch of the calendar. Those slow, in-between moments – when the kettle is always on, and the days seem to blur together – allow us to breathe, rest, and reconnect. There’s comfort in the simple pleasures: a long winter walk, a festive lm, or sharing leftovers with loved ones.
As the clock edges towards midnight on New Year’s Eve, December gives us one nal chance to dream. The countdown isn’t just to another year, but to new possibilities. Whether your resolutions are grand or gentle, something is uplifting about that shared moment of hope – a collective reset that reminds us all that endings are just beginnings in disguise.
So, as you hang the last decoration or light a candle in the window, take a moment to savour the season. December is more than a month of celebration; it’s a reminder to nd warmth in the cold, connection in the chaos, and gratitude in the everyday. Here’s to the magic of December – and to everything it brings.
10 Penybont Road, Pencoed CF35 5RA
Tel : 01656 862074 / 07572 964457
Email : pencoedcarpet@aol.com
Saturday 6th December 2 pm
Pencoed Miners Welfare Hall
Heol Y Groes
Pencoed CF35 5PE
Tickets/Admission £7.50 in advance
Mark Steer 01443 230282 marksteer150@gmail.com Wendy McDonald 01656 865633 eric.mcdonald012@btinternet.com
St Donats Chorale invite you to a Christmas Fantasia at St Illtud's Church, Llantwit Major, on Saturday 13th December at 7:30pm. The programme features festive music and readings including Fantasia on Christmas Carols by Ralph Vaughan Williams. We are delighted that Matthew Welch has agreed to return as our guest baritone. The internationally renowned cellist, Ben Tarlton, will also be performing. It promises to be a wonderful evening of music. For details please visit www.stdonats.org
www.bridgendastro.org.uk Contact: secretary@bridgendastro.org.uk
Cowbridge U3A has been busy with a series of events in its 30th anniversary year. Of course, our Open Day takes place on 15th November, which is too late for this edition, but hopefully, we will have lots of pictures for next month.
Cowbridge U3A entered two teams into this event, organised and hosted by Pontyclun U3A, alongside teams from Tonyrefail U3A, Bridgend U3A, Swansea U3A, Cardi U3A, and, of course, Pontyclun U3A itself.
After a Tabletop picture and puzzle quiz, and ve rounds of questions on Science and Nature, Sports and Pastimes, TV and Films, Art, Music and Literature and General Knowledge, the four members of the Cowbridge 1 team were level with the six members of the Swansea team. After a nail-biting tie-break question about the number of steps in the Empire State Building, the quiz was won by Cowbridge.
Cowbridge U3A quiz teams are in action on 15th November 2025 at the Cowbridge Rotary Charity Quiz, where they hope to repeat their success from the 2024 event, while raising funds for our nominated charities.
10th December 2025, 2 pm - The Christmas general meeting will be held in the Ramoth Church hall (United Free Church) in Cowbridge, where all are welcome to join us for mulled wine and mince pies, and folk music by Paul and Christine.
18th December 2025, 10 am - Cowbridge Town Hall.
The history group will be hearing a presentation about the Mari Lwyd and other Christmas traditions in Wales, by Carys Whelan.
1.Fred
2. 1984
3. Nuremberg, Germany
4. Alabama
5. Seven swans a-swimming
6. Gabriel
7. Queen Elizabeth II (in 1957)
8. Tinsel
Mist or condensation between the panes ofyour double glazing? If so, then why not give us a ring and we will be happy to come out (FREE OF CHARGE) to measure up and give you a quote to replace the glass only.
Having trouble opening or closing your UPVC windows or doors? Are they catching the frame or just difficult to open or lock? Give us a ring because we can help fix the problem (NO FIX NO CHARGE POLICY)
We replace all types of UPVC hardware that is failing or broken :- Letter boxes, handles, locks & hinges, re-seal failing, silicone seals and trims.
We can also re-align a window or door sash that is letting in excessive noise or a draught.
I can also fit cat and dog flaps.
Bi-fold door adjustments and service. CALL : VAUGHAN 07817 494724 www.windoor-doctor.co.uk
Email : v.manley@aol.co.uk
9. Jingle Bells (played by astronauts on Gemini 6 in 1965)
10. Clarence
11. Japan
12. Blitzen
13. Bless Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
14. Raymond Briggs
15. Bill Nighy
16. Beef
17. Germany
18. Shere (in Surrey)
19. Christmas or “birth” (from the French word nael, derived from Latin natalis)
20. Silent Night
1 Mon 10:30 Walking Books: Cider with Rosie by Laurie Lee Nant Talwg Way, Barry, CF62 6LZ
4 Thur 10:00 A Christmas Walk Maes-y-Fynon, Bonvilston, CF5 6TR
7 Sun 10:00 Ely Valley and Cogan Pill Plymouth car park, Marconi Rd, Penarth, CF64 1SN
11 Thur 10:00 Iolo Morganwg Walk Physic Garden, Cowbridge, CF71 7BB
17 Wed 10:00 Circular Walk to the Coast & Back, Bilingual Chemist shop, St Athan CF62 4PF
18 Thur 09:30 Rhoose Loop Fontygary Leisure Park, Rhoose, CF71 7QA
21 Sun 14:00 Church and Castle Ruthin Quarry car park, Ruthin CF35 5DY
28 Sun 14:00 Barry to Barry Island Y Rhodfa, Barry Waterfront, CF63 4DF
1 Jan Tue 13:00 Dave’s New Year’s Day Walk St Peters Church, Dinas Powys, CF64 4BY
Progression Walks: Approximately 1.5 hours, gentle terrain with limited stiles, steps or steep inclines.
Secondary Walks:Approximately 2 – 2.5 hours with some stiles, steps or steep inclines.
Extended Walks: Approximately 3 –4 hours. Many stiles, steps or steep inclines. Bringadrink and a snack.
Valeways invites you to join one (or more) of our freewalksled bytrained walk leaders led by and enjoy the friendlyatmosphere and exercise in the beautiful Vale of Glamorgan. For information on Valeways walks, strollers and volunteering, visit www.valeways.org.uk
Starring : Nicolas Gonda, Paul Mescal, Sam Mendes, Jessie Buckley, Joe Alwyn, Chloé Zhao, Maggie O'Farrell, Jacobi Jupe
The lm presents the imagined story of Agnes, the wife of William Shakespeare, as she grapples with the loss of her only son, Hamnet. It explores the emotional, familial, and artistic consequences of this tragedy, serving as a poignant backdrop to the creation of Shakespeare's renowned play, Hamlet.
Starring : Woody Harrelson, Jamie Lee Curtis, Jack Lowden, James L. Brooks, Ayo Edebiri, Rebecca Hall, Emma Mackey, Albert Brooks
At 34 years old, Ella McCay becomes the governor of the state she was born and raised in. However, navigating relationships with her husband, father and brother may just be her biggest challenge yet.
Starring : Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried, Paul Feig, Brandon Sklenar, Todd LIeberman, Rebecca Sonnenshine, Michele Morrone
Starring : James Cameron, Kate Winslet, Zoe Saldana, Sam Worthington, Michelle Yeoh, David Thewlis, Brendan Cowell
In the lm, Sweeney will play Millie, a struggling young woman who is relieved to get a fresh start as a housemaid to Nina (Seyfried) and Andrew (Sklenar), an upscale, wealthy couple… but soon learns that the family’s secrets are far more dangerous than her own.
Avatar: Fire and Ash is the third movie in the Avatar series, focusing on the Sully family grieving the death of Neteyam. They encounter a new, aggressive Na'vi tribe called the Ash People, led by the ery Varang, who has allied with Colonel Quaritch. The lm escalates the con ict on Pandora and introduces a new moral focus, as the Ash People are depicted as a volcanic, anger-driven group.
ARTIFICIAL
BRANCHES
CANDY CANES
CELEBRATION
DECEMBER
DECORATE
DECORATIONS
FESTIVE
FRESH CUT
GARLAND
NEEDLES
ORNAMENTS PINE
PRESENTS
SETTING UP
SKIRT
SMALL
STAND
STAR
TAKING DOWN
TINSEL
TOPPER
TRADITION
TREE FARM
TREE LOT
TRUNK
WATER
YEARLY
Whatever your dental problem, we can help. Our friendly team are ready to provide a wide range of treatments, including teeth straightening, whitening and composite bonding – all in a relaxed atmosphere.
SATURDAY AND EARLY MORNING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE.
Pay as you go or affordable Denplan monthly plans available, from as little as £11.69 for adults, and their children will receive free check-ups. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for regular offers. Give us a ring or pop in if you’d like more information- QUOTE BUDDY FOR 10% OFF YOUR FIRST CHECK-UP.
Born In December - Michel de Nostredame (1503 – 1566)
