Cardiff Times - October 2022

OCTOBER 2022

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A magical spell will be cast over Cardiff this October Caiff swyn hudolus ei fwrw dros Gaerdydd fis Hydref Performed in English and Welsh. Welsh language dialogue will be captioned. / Perfformiwyd yn Gymraeg a Saesneg. Bydd y ddeialog Gymraeg yn cael ei chapsiynu.

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CARDIFF TIMES CARDIFF TIMES CARDIFF TIMES CARDIFF PUBLISHER CARDIFF TIMES TIMES Cardiff Times PUBLISHER Cardiff Times EDITOR PUBLISHER Louise Denning EDITOR Cardiff Times 07903 Louise 947594 Denning PUBLISHER 07903 947594 PUBLISHER EDITOR Cardiff TimesEDITOR FEATURES Cardiff Times Louise Denning Mark Denning FEATURES EDITOR 07758 247194 Mark Denning EDITOR Louise Denning 07758 247194 Louise Denning 07903 947594 FEATURES EDITOR SALES & MARKETING 07903 947594 Mark Denning SALES & MARKETING FEATURES 07758 info@cardiff-times.co.uk Beth 247194EDITOR FEATURES EDITOR Mark Denning beth@cardiff-times.co.uk Mark Denning 07758 247194 SALES & MARKETING 07758 247194 Beth CONTRIBUTORS SALES & MARKETING info@cardiff-times.co.uk Wyn Evans, Vince Nolan, CONTRIBUTORS SALES & MARKETING Beth Sara Carl Marsh, WynJohn, Evans, Vince Nolan, Beth beth@cardiff-times.co.uk Molly Dutton, Oates, Sara John, CarlRalph Marsh, beth@cardiff-times.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS Natalie MichaelMcCulloch Fogg, Kellie Williams, Wyn Nolan, RalphEvans, Oates,Vince Natalie McCulloch, CONTRIBUTORS Sara John, Carl Marsh, Jen Abell CONTRIBUTORS Wyn Evans, Molly Dutton,Vince RalphNolan, Oates, Wyn Evans, Vince Nolan, Sara John, Carl Marsh, Natalie McCulloch Sara John, Carl Marsh, Michael Fogg, Kellie Williams, Michael Fogg, Kellie Williams, Ralph Oates, Natalie McCulloch, Ralph Oates, Natalie McCulloch, Jen Abell Jen Abell

EDITORIAL 029 2046 3028 ADVERTISING 07903 947594 EMAIL info@cardiff-times.co.uk WEB www.cardiff-times.co.uk EDITORIAL 029 2046 3028 EDITORIAL 029 2046 3028 ADVERTISING 07903 947594 ADVERTISING 07903 947594 EMAIL info@cardiff-times.co.uk EMAIL info@cardiff-times.co.uk WEB www.cardiff-times.co.uk WEB www.cardiff-times.co.uk

EDITORS LETTER

Welcome Welcome Welcome Welcome CARDIFF TIMES

EDITORS LETTER

EDITORS EDITORS LETTER LETTER

Greetings to one and all. We hope you’ve managed to enjoy the festive season with loved ones and wish you a prosperous new year.

Hi All, and welcome to our November issue.

As we reflect back on 2021, it would be remiss not to mention the It only seems yesterday we were completing last issue passing of our like longtime contributor Michael James. our Michael cared but a month moved Time reallymanaged does flyarticles by.enjoy Covid deeply forhas hisone community which wasyou’ve reflected in his for Greetings to and on all. since.

We hope to themany seems towelcome be doing it's rounds inissue. schools in Cardiff, especially at years.

His legacy will always inspire us toyou be better people.

Hi all, and toloved our October festive season with ones and wish a prosperous new year.

Welco

our daughter’s primary school, but luckily, we know of no-one who is seriously illback with the virus.

Thank goodness soand many Two inspira� onal icons passed in September.

Firstly, ourpeople longest Hi All, and welcome to ourproudly November issue.

Also during 2021 we were nominated won, twothe As we reflect on 2021, itaway would be remissfor, not to mention Hi All, and welcome our November issue. have received vaccinations. reigning monarch Queen Elizabeth II.Achieving The outpouring love, people queuing awards for being BesttoMagazine. these of awards will always passing of our longtime contributor Michael James.

Michael cared It only seems like yesterday we were completing our last issue but be a great honour and notthroughout havereflected beenthe done without our team of to to pay their respects, thecould tributes are all testament deeply for his community which was inmedia his articles for many It only seems like yesterday we were completing our last issue but October is always a quiet month for us in terms of birthdays, a month has moved on since.

Time really does fly by.

Covid tremendous writers.

They are all and contribute somethingThere Her Majesty and how much sheinspire wasunique respected and loved worldwide. years.

His legacy will always us to be better people. a monthtohas moved onrounds since.

Time really does fly by.

Covid celebrations or just going out in general.

This could be because seems be doing it's in schools in Cardiff, especially at completely different which makes the magazine accessible to all will no one quite like her our life� me again.in Cardiff, especially at PUBLISHER seems to be doing it's in rounds inbut schools we are starting towe think about the chaos and non-stop activity our daughter’s school, luckily, we know of no-one who readers.

All, and that welcome to our N Also during 2021primary were proudly for, andHi won, two our daughter’s primary school, butnominated luckily, we know of no-one who Cardiff Times Another shock came with the passing of Eddie Butler whilst on a charity is the month of December and mentally preparing ourselves for a seriously ill with the virus.

Thank goodness so many people awards for being Best Magazine.

Achieving these awards will always is seriously ill with the virus.

Thank goodness so many people certain celebration, or it could just be we haven’t been invited to have received vaccinations. trek in Peru.

Eddie was the well-known voice of Welsh rugby, as well as Last year also brought the struggle of trying to keep the magazine It only seems like yesterday be a great honour and could not have been done without our team of have received vaccinations. go anywhere! agoing much-respected broadcaster.

The former Welsh rugby captain and BBC and it has been tough. from the hospitality industry a month has moved on since tremendous writers.

They areBookings all unique and contribute something EDITOR October always quiet month for us in terms of birthdays, commentator will part beasorely missed by allmagazine rugby fansaccessible not just inthe Wales make up is a huge of our advertising, especially during festive seems doing it's round completely different which makes the toto allbebut October is always a quiet month for us in terms of birthdays, Louise Denning celebrations orworld. just going out inthe general.

This could bepossible because This month though, we'll be celebrating our daughter's birthday. primary scho season, butthe due to closures and uncertainty of more throughout daughter’s readers. celebrations orshe just going outdoin Thisnon-stop couldour bego because 07903 947594 we are starting to think about the chaos and activity that Not sure what wants to orgeneral. where she wants to because lockdowns, organisers have cancelled shows, postponed events or is seriously ill with the virus. we are starting to think about the chaos and non-stop activity that The nights are now drawing in and the temperature is star� ng to drop but is the month ofbrought December andtoon mentally preparing ourselves for simply haven’t had theher budget spend any money all.

Our have received she keeps changing mind ideas to celebrate her big day -a Last year also the struggle of trying to keep at the magazine is the month of December and mentally preparing ourselves for a vaccinations. we refuse to put the hea� ng on with the high costs in energy prices.

If certainand celebration, ormum! it could just be we haven’t been invited tothe magazine is free so without funding its impossible to print and sounds a bit like her (that was Mark saying that by the going it has been tough.

Bookings from the hospitality industry FEATURES EDITOR certain celebration, orcan it could justexercise be weand haven’t been invited to like go anywhere! children feel cold, they do some put a jumper on.

Just distribute magazine. willadvertising, inevitably start to improve, sothe all festive I is can October always a quiet mo way!). make up aa huge part ofItour especially during go anywhere!

Mark Denning we used to the ‘good old days’ asthe some of weren’t blessed with way central celebrations or just going ou say to any business struggling is, hang in us there and try any new season, butin due to closures and uncertainty of more possible This month though, we'll be celebrating our daughter's birthday. hea� ng! we are starting to create new ideas if you possibly can.

07758 247194 lockdowns, organisers have cancelled shows, postponed events or to think abou And another celebration this month is the book launch of our This month though, we'll be celebrating our daughter's birthday.

Not sure what she wants to do or where she wants to go because is the month simply haven’t had the budget tonot spend any money at all. Our talented writer Sara John, content with providing usthe withof December an Notgreat sure what she wants towho do or where she wants to go because It’s to see more local events adver� sing again.

We’ve missed certain celebration, or it coul We’ve had some rather events occur into 2021 related toshe keeps changing herunpleasant mind on ideas to celebrate her big day magazine is free so without funding its impossible print and an incredibly varied number of articles, has now turned her hand SALES & MARKETING she keeps changing her mind onwas ideas to celebrate her big day business, things now back to Well mostly.

Something go anywhere! work, butaand we’re certainly not giving innormal. tostart any ifso anything sounds bit like her mum! (that Mark saying that by distribute a magazine.

Itseem will inevitably tonegativity, improve, allthe I can has to writing her own book. sounds a bit like her mum! (that was Mark saying by the come toany light whilst looking various things for elderly people to doway who Beth they have spurred us on tofor be even more positive inthat 2022. way!). say to business struggling is, hang in there and try any new way!). are lonely,new isolated or ifhave mobility issues.

There are many people s�llthough, afraid we'll be This month to create ideas you possibly can. goes beth@cardiff-times.co.uk Last but not least our third celebration to……. the magazine to a�end groupcelebration events because of covid. have lost confiof dence due she wants to Keep smiling, keep dreaming and keep safebook everyone.

Not sure And another this month isSome the launch ourwhat and our talented writers.

We have only gone and won a best And another celebration this month is theassistance book launch to isola� ngwriter for soSara long.

Some need help with toshe getof toour andwith from keeps changing her min We’ve had some rather unpleasant events occur in 2021 related to talented John, who not content with providing us magazine award.

It'sthe great to beunable recognised after all these years. talented writer Sara John, who not with providing us with ac� vi� es and without help are to leave their homes because theyher mum! (t Happy New Year! work, but we’re certainly notand giving incontent to any negativity, if anything sounds ahand bit like anhuge incredibly varied number of every articles, has now turned her A well done to each one of our dedicated and an incredibly number articles, now turned her hand are unsteady onvaried foot.us We beofpu� ng a listhas of ac� vi� es2022. in the magazine CONTRIBUTORS they have her spurred onwill to be more positive in way!). to writing own book. inspirational writers, and a pateven on the back for us, sometimes to writing own book. very soon.

Ifher you know of anyone who is isolated, please give them a all call or Wyn Evans, Vince Nolan, the hard work is worth it after all! pop in.but That le chat will make a huge diffsafe erence.

Keep smiling, keep dreaming and keep celebration this Last notli�& least our third celebration goeseveryone. to…….And the another magazine Sara John, Carl Marsh, Louise Mark Last but talented not leastwriters. our third celebration goes to……. the EDITORS LETTER talented writer Sara John, w anda personal our We have only gone andanext won a magazine best Please continue to stay safe everyone, and until month, On note, the children are ge� ng back into rou� ne a� er the Michael Fogg, Kellie Williams, CARDIFF TIMES and ourNew talented writers.

We have only gone after and won a best Happy Year! incredibly varied number magazine award.

It's great toof be recognised allanthese years. happy reading. summer holidays.

S� ll in a state shock that our daughter has been doing magazine award.

It's great to be recognised after alltothese years.

Ralph Oates, Natalie McCulloch, writing herstolen own book.

A huge well done to each every one her homework without beingand prompted to do of so.our Ourdedicated son had hisand bike A huge well done to each and of our dedicated and inspirational writers, and aajones pat every onkindly theone back for us, sometimes all Jen Abell last month.

Mike from @puff donated a fi xed-up bike to him inspirational writers, and a 2046 patall! on3028 the back for us, sometimes all EDITORIAL 029 Lastgi� butofnot the hard work worth it after Louise &isisgrateful Mark which we are so Human kindness is the greatest all.least Not our third c PUBLISHER the hard work worthfor. it after Hi All, all! and welcome to our November issue.

Louise & Mark and our talented writers. We Cardiff Times ADVERTISING 947594 wan� ng to be jinxed we07903 won’tIt show a picture of the bike just in case it gets only seems like yesterday we were completing our last issue but Please continue to stay safe everyone, and next month, award. It's great to a month has moved on since.

Timeuntil really does flymagazine by. Covid EDITOR stolen a second � me. seems to be doing it's rounds in schools in Cardiff, at Please continue to stay safe everyone, and until next month, EMAIL info@cardiff-times.co.uk Louise Denning Aespecially well done to each an happy reading. our daughter’s primary school, but luckily, we know ofhuge no-one who 07903 947594 is seriously ill with the virus. Thank goodness so many people happy reading. inspirational writers, and a p Have a Spooktacular October. have received vaccinations.

WEB www.cardiff-times.co.uk FEATURES EDITOR EDITORIAL 029 2046 3028 hard work is worth it afte October is always a quiet month for us in terms ofthe birthdays, Un� l next month......

Mark Denning

Welcome

celebrations or just going out in general. This could be because

we are starting to think about the chaos and non-stop activity that 07758 247194 ADVERTISING 07903 947594 is the month of December and mentally preparing ourselves for a certain celebration, or it could just be we haven’t been invited to continue to stay safe Please SALES & MARKETING Louise go anywhere!

EMAIL Follow us oninfo@cardiff-times.co.uk Twitter @CardiffTimes Beth happy reading.

This month though, we'll be celebrating our daughter's birthday. beth@cardiff-times.co.uk Not sure what she wants to do or where she wants to go because WEB www.cardiff-times.co.uk keeps changing her mind on ideas to celebrate her big day sounds a bit 3028 like her mum! (that was Mark saying that by the EDITORIAL 029 she 2046 CONTRIBUTORS way!).

Wyn Evans, Vince Nolan, ADVERTISING And another celebration this month is the book launch of our www.facebook.com/Cardifftimes Sara John, Carl Louise & Mark Follow us Marsh, on Twitter @CardiffTimes talented writer Sara John, who not content with providing us with Michael Fogg, Kellie Williams, an incredibly varied number of articles, has now turned her hand EMAIL Follow usNatalie on info@cardiff-times.co.uk Twitter @CardiffTimes Ralph Oates, McCulloch, to writing her own book.

Jen Abell Last but not least our third celebration goes to……. the magazine WEB www.cardiff-times.co.uk Instagram cardifftimesand our talented writers. We have only gone and won a best magazine award. It's great to be recognised after all these years.

A huge well done to each and every one of our dedicated and

inspirational writers, and a pat on the back for us, sometimes all www.facebook.com/Cardifftimes the hard work is worth it after all! www.facebook.com/Cardifftimes Please continue to stay safe everyone, and until next month, Follow us on Twitter @CardiffTimes happy reading.

Follow us on Twitter @CardiffTimes

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FRIDAY 07 OCTOBER 2022 CARDIFF ST DAVID’S HALL STDAVIDSHALLCARDIFF.CO.UK MYTICKET.CO.UK

Experiences, Things, and Kings. byWyn Evans It’s The Boss’s birthday today.

The Girl took a bit too long in the shower this morning and consequently had to bolt her breakfast. (The Girl is our sixteenyear-old daughter who last week started in Year 12 at Whitchurch High School - or ‘first year sixth’, as my generation insist on calling it). An unfortunate by-product of this tardiness was that we didn’t have time to sit down together en famille to open The Boss’s birthday cards and presents. That will now take place at 1520 hours when our daughter returns from school.

“How long does it take to open a couple of presents and cards?”, I hear you ask. There’s no definitive response to that question, but “longer than the five minutes we had available to us this morning” is part of the answer.

We have become aware of the distinction between ‘things’ and ‘experiences’. Sociologists and economists have spent the past few years pointing out that the current generation of nineteento twenty-nine-year-olds have been priced out of the property market to such an extent that buying their own home is almost an impossibility. Compare and contrast #1: I was twenty-three when my first wife and I bought out first home. It’s not that we were particularly astute to manage this. It’s just that there were plenty of starter homes being built and finance was readily available. I’m advised that affordable long-term lets are equally hard to come by today. As a result of these developments a generation of young men and women have moved back in with their parents.

6 CARDIFF TIMES

The BOMAD (bank of mum and dad) increasingly bank-rolls payment of lump sum deposits on the relatively few properties that do reach the market.

It is also a given these days that those who have worked hard and attained degree-level education leave university with a stonking great student loan to repay. Compare and contrast #2: my generation were blessed that education fees were not the responsibility of the students; who also received a maintenance grant (which went some way

towards the cost of books and beer). Those of us living in Halls of Residence received subsidised accommodation too. All in all, it meant that it was feasible that students could leave university in their early twenties without the back-breaking yoke of accrued fees weighing them down. They also had a reasonable expectation that degree-level jobs would be available to them and that they could reasonably look forward to buying an affordable home, making it more likely that they would marry and start a family in their twenties.

This meant that ’things’ were sought-after, must-have items. If you had a house you’d want to fit the kitchen and bathroom of your choice; crockery, cutlery and white goods would be required; carpets to be fitted; a new kingsized bed for the newly-weds with smaller beds or cribs for the kid(s) to follow. You get the picture of course. Nowadays, my younger friends are eschewing ‘things’ and concentrating more on ‘experiences’. They will spend more of their available cash on extended gap years or adventure holidays, on visiting Michelinstarred restaurants or... well, again, you get the picture. This trend has been reinforced by the Covid pandemic and by today’s move towards working from home.

So, for her birthday, The Boss will be receiving some things and an experience (no sniggering at the back there!). When you’ve had thirty-four years together it’s possible to appreciate that those nice, comfy jumpers from Land’s End make as nice a gift as that dress from Karen Millen. I hope so anyway! The Girl on the other hand knows just what her mother needs. It doesn’t matter if it’s a birthday, Christmas, Mother’s Day, or simply a one-off gift. “Dad, mam needs earrings” (or a necklace, or a bangle for her wrist). Those three choices are The Girl’s ‘go to’ items when she’s getting presents for her mam. When she’s getting presents for her dad she has decided that bling doesn’t suit me, but that...socks do, especially socks that have pithy quotations sewn into them. She also gets me T-shirts that emphasise my love of photography, which I vastly prefer to socks!

For The Boss’s birthday however this time we are throwing in an experience too. She and I are

going up to London as a birthday treat to a concert in the Wigmore Hall. It’s our favourite concert venue and we’ll be seeing Sir Andras Schiff give a two-hour recital. He won’t finalise the programme until the concert itself but you can bet your boots that it will include some JS Bach, who The Boss has come to love, if only because she’s had no other choice married to me! The Girl will also get an experience out of this because she’ll get to have a sleepover with a friend. And, not to be left out, we have arranged for a house-sitter to stay here when we are away to look after our home and our two dogs.

Thank goodness that’s all over. I’m talking about the extended period of mourning for our late Queen of course. To my considerable surprise I found many aspects of the big, set-piece events very moving. There was something very poignant about the fourteenhour queues, the disabled veterans saluting their erstwhile Commander-in-Chief, the religious services that built on traditional liturgies, the young men who carried the coffin, and so much more. Not even the presence of Princes Andrew and Harry was too

distracting. And when the camera caught Prince Charles (‘Carlo’, after the Dafydd Iwan song from the late 1960s, as my family have always known him), sorry, that should read “...caught The King brushing away a tear I actually heard myself say out loud “ah, he’s just a lad who’s lost his mum”.

I’ve always been a Republican so I was surprised by my own reactions. I think it has to do with the fact that Brenda always appeared to be above the fray, a unifying symbol of the nation. Just stating the case for an elected Head of State, in theory open to any citizen under a written constitution, used to be enough to keep me happy. It mostly still is.

But it would all get tied-up in party politics and the minute a parti pris Head of State is elected then half the population would hate him on principle and he’d be a far from unifying figure. I think I’m now still a Republican but a Republican who’s prepared to see what fist Chuck makes of the role. Thus, not entirely cynically, I leave you with this: The Queen is Dead; God save the King!

Copyright CBC News

CARDIFF TIMES 7

Cardiff Times October - Page 1 Editorial_Layout 1 26/09/2022 19:05 Page 1

OCTOBER AT ST DAVID’S HALL OCTOBER can mean only one thing at St David’s Hall and that is the return of the Cardiff Classical Series!

From Brussels to Reykjavík, the exciting new season features 18 world-class concerts, and we’ve got even more reason to celebrate - the National Concert Hall of Wales is officially 40 years old in February 2023! We are so proud to provide visiting orchestras with breathtaking acoustics to perform in, and we are offering a more affordable ticket price than ever with more than 500 seats available at just £20 and below, and hundreds at under £10.

The season starts in style with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales (Thurs 6 Oct). Conducted by Ryan Bancroft, the evening begins with the virtuoso Yeol Eum Son playing Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No 3 before an epic finale of Stravinksy’s spellbinding The Rite of Spring. In addition, the following week sees award-winning cellist Laura van der Heijden join the Brno Philharmonic Orchestra (Sat 15 Oct) for a feast of Czech music including Martinů, Janáček and Dvořák.

Also starting their 2022/23 season are Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra (Fri 28 Oct) with a programme perfect for the creepiest time of year in their Halloween Spectacular including spooky selections from Harry Potter and The Witches of Eastwick. The Royal Welsh College Symphony Orchestra (Tues 25 Oct) return too with letters of love from Florence Price, Henri Tomasi and Rachmaninov in From the Heart.

Plus, the London Concert Orchestra are back with some of the most memorable movie music of all-time from Jaws to Jurassic Park and Star Wars to Superman in The Best of John Williams (Sun 30 Oct)!

Elsewhere, Welsh national treasure Sir Bryn Terfel (Sat 29 Oct) presents his favourite Songs and Arias, while Brian McFadden and Keith Duffy join forces as Boyzlife (Sun 2 Oct) to celebrate the very best of Boyzone and Westlife. There’s also a touching tribute to George Michael in Freedom (Thurs 13 Oct) starring 2009 X Factor winner Joe McElderry, while Keane frontman Tom Chaplin (Mon 17 Oct) sings songs from his stunning third solo album Midpoint. If rock is more your thing we’ve got that covered too as Uriah Heep (Tues 11 Oct) mark their 50th anniversary with amazing acoustic and electric sets. Plus, for a nostalgic walk down memory lane there’s Sixties Gold (Weds 12 Oct) with Herman’s Hermits headlining a star-studded line-up reliving an unforgettable era of music.

In the L3 Lounge, our Roots Unearthed series resumes with BBC Radio 2 Folk Award-winning musician Martin Simpson (Tues 4 Oct), while the nightmusic contemporary season is back with SongSpiel (Tues 18 Oct). Our Lunchtime Concerts also continue with a captivating organ recital from Martin Baker (Tues 4 Oct) and an oboe and piano collaboration between Armand Djikoloum and Catherine Milledge (Tues 18 Oct) - the perfect way to break up your day!

Lastly, there’s an exhilarating evening of adventures in store with the Banff Mountain Film Festival (Sat 1 Oct), and get in the zone for the autumn internationals with Martin Bayfield’s Rugby Legends (Fri 7 Oct) featuring very special guests Sam Warburton and Martin Johnson!

8 CARDIFF TIMES

Cardiff Times October - Page 2_Layout 1 26/09/2022 15:55 Page 1

BOYZLIFE Old School 02.10.22

SIR BYRN TERFEL Songs and Arias 29.10.22

THE BEST OF JOHN WILLIAMS London Concert Orchestra 30.10.22

MARTIN BAYFIELD’S RUGBY LEGENDS 07.10.22

MILKSHAKE! LIVE 12.30pm & 3.30pm 26.10.22

BBC NATIONAL ORCHESTRA OF WALES 06.10.22

FREEDOM feat. Joe McElderry 13.10.22

CARDIFF PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA 28.10.22

TOM CHAPLIN Midpoint 17.10.22

BRNO PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA 15.10.22

ROYAL WELSH COLLEGE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 25.10.22

MARTIN SIMPSON Roots Unearthed 04.10.22

‘And Another Thing...’

How to secure a pay rise

byVince Nolan

My Dear Chums, I know we are all suffering at present from the exorbitant cost of living increases.

faithful houndship which no amount of pay rise could ever compensate for.

I was recently forced to pay in excess of £6 for a pint of “designer beer” at a beachside surf bar. It must have been designed by Hugo Boss. However, there may be a solution to this economic madness which I have been given special permission to share with you.

Their other dog Heidi, who is a bit of a lookalikey and the same flavour, is now their canine focus.

I have a great mate of over 30 years standing (and sometimes sitting), let’s call her Anna.

She works part-time at a hardware shop having taken voluntary redundancy from a high-powered job and has never been happier in her work. When I said never been happier, I lied. She decided she needed a pay rise so one day, she invited her boss around for a lunchtime drink and filled the paddling pool in her sunny garden. He arrived and she opened the door in her bikini, which was a funny place for a door and invited him to “get his kit off” and join her in the pool for a beverage.

Mercifully, he only stripped down to his boxers which were as ancient as he was and he took the plunge, wine in hand. He thought he had died and gone to heaven but alas had entered a well-crafted honey trap. Having joined him, Anna told him she was unhappy with the salary she was being paid and asked for a pay rise. Surprisingly, when up to his chest in water with a scantily clad, much younger, leggy blond, he acquiesced (look it up). It was of course all above board as Anna is happily married to Jon. However, just to rub salt in the wound, she had previously nicked the paddling pool from her employer’s shop.

Sadly, it is not all laughs and jokes at Anna and Jon Towers. They recently lost their beloved Harri Parry after many years of 10 CARDIFF TIMES

On a more cheerful note, I have just returned from a fab ten days away with the Current Mrs Nolan. We decided to sidestep all the hassle of international travel. By hassle I mean being charged extra for booking, turning up, for luggage, for kids, for coming back, for use of an overhead locker, for sitting together, for use of the inflight toilet etc, never mind the prospect of never taking off or arriving. We went to Devon and booked “room only.” We were given an empty room. We soon discovered that despite me having ironed numerous tailored shorts for the trip, I had left them on the bed at home even though I did the packing. Perhaps a clumsy tactic for a new wardrobe you may be thinking? Alas, I hate shopping, so we spent far too long on day 1 looking for non-seasonal clothing which cost far too much money. My how we laughed.

We managed to see some great pub musicians whilst away who put on a Sunday jamming session for anyone interested in joining them.

Before you ask, no I did not. However, some days later a band were due to play at the same pub. We booked dinner to ensure a good spot. The dinner was hot and the band was not. They set up for over 90 minutes, just the two of them with 4 guitars, a banjo, speakers and a keyboard. They had enough cabling to go across the Atlantic and back and we left (as did most of the locals) before they played a

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First, of itcertainly isstealing the from carnage ofcaused bike lanes taking where convicted mail at gunpoint guess but it would have a major eleased back harmthe to I wasinto in alawlocal hostelry other evening, The Unwelcome Inn. The Memsahib was at her can in him something wrong itcomb-out is called a typo.

So if smacking kids introduced in Walesto forheckle was to tease or flax or hemp priority overdoor’s cars which been quickly followed upsentenced with “The Canal Ohand Please! one of the largest ope andI say was toisQuarter.” death by diplomatic incident. ……………..well, until next cat has got 2022.

Whilst being welcomed by most something wrong it called a talko?

Hand Grenades For Beginners One regulars ordered wine.

He asked for a Yard) that we had properly warmed up sincefibres. weClass. didn’t want to of pullthe anymeaning drinking ned to ensure The modern was coined in Dundee realised that our celebration coincided with to So: “Any of For awould number of subatomic particles right-minded people it will of course be nothing Furthermore, a typo on a headstone be Grenades Beginners Class.

One of the Just be clear: Did you hear about the urologist This will open up the Dock Feeder Canal hanging.

He refused a pardon in 1833 muscles. Unfortunately, only six of us turned up and abeing of ten were century. required orAs theelectric Britain.

Next up willLater be th inminimum thedue early 19th the hecklers toiled in wrong. the Stereophonics and Tom Jones carrying a ordered fractional charge, postulated bottle offorold-timers Jennen Blank.

One assumes meant Chenin Blanc butand one mayofbe bad news the Cardiff under 14’s ahe grave error?

Between typos autocorrect dvisit still off.butI engaged regulars wine.

He asked for a bottle four who were the sold bar have been the which runs under Churchill Way. Within who(could was eaten by a bear?

He was a meteorologist withwas hunting, if Ithe were illegallyStadium hunting for inhad at Principality which as building blocks of the hadrons.

Quarks from President Andrew Jackson and Lederhosen Formation Slap Dancing Ensemble it’s getting harder to post stuff these days.

One Jennen Blank. assumes he meant thepatrons factory, one of his the team would read outChenin the days’ for Welsh-speaking that evening, of the older said to equally old comrade: “John died thisGonDa aforementioned ones from Taffone Vale) and asked them whether they fancied having aOnesupermarket dms, would days there will be trolleys and out Citythe hotels.

The concerts were then have not been directly observed but theoretical (meaty urologist, oh please yourselves).

I have questionable morels? who will the no longer be slapping each other as and tiny mistake and your whole post isthat urined.

Blanc but one may be wrong.

Later evening, news the others would butt in with constant was executed after the Supreme Court brewery tour and free beer for the afternoon.

Fearing some kind of honey trap, they took based onhave their have old cancelled and we found athey Cityare centre hotel traffic cones dumped insaid it,existence stag nights morning. will tellboth you again in half an predictions hour you will one ofas the older patrons to his equally of routines unless given how people downpoignant. to the Bay in The Leader of the and Iforgotten.” were sitting inQuite at doconvincing youpart callfor a their deer whoIwas has lost some that myhurrah! offer genuine.

Cautiously, they agreed to join us.

Picture the and aOpposition stream “furious debate.” been confi rmed experimentally.”

Oh please! £80, However, the fickleinterruptions finger The world has taken a down strange –will attell least ruled he could turn itof iftwist he comrade: “John died this morning.

Iwanted youWith special dispensation by our First Minister. wading through it, the occasional dead dog scene, 5pm on a sunny our socially distanced local, The Funky Furlough, aky hunting accident?

No eye deer.

And as in for mesons and baryons, webeen could be most of fate (presumably the middle one),this thenin mind the parts Iof seem occupy.

Iquality have Taxis. again half anto hour asopen-air you will forgotten.”

Iand have collated some put-downs Catherine Braganza (67) ishave one ofindon’t our one the largest urinals to.

No pleasing some weekday evening atofthe side How long have hadfolk. arthritis?”

“I here allabout night. intervened and cancelled thespecials office lunch Saw this Trump in a local pub board: reading ayou proposal for the 2027 Rugby Quite poignant. whencomics a lady close by to us asked the Bar Manager ecided that when dies, Ion willtheir give which have used to deal with modern day her husband Britain.

Next up willprevent be thedrunk adverts looking entrance to the Brewery onwill overlooked Queens.

Neglected not us toand wander lonely as some clouds “We leaving Love Local champion local farms World Cup which any team injust red by have arthritis, Father,” the said, “but I if the toilets were still upstairs.

He of course gy.

I will say: “He is today how he was as hecklers: I was at the hairdressers the other day for my I was in a local hostelry the other evening, The Unwelcome Inn.poor Thecow.

Mem Catherine of Braganza (67) is one of our most Caroline Street where four exactly time itthat tried to forwe Welsh-speaking GonDailiers to punt around the Castle and its outdoor barfirst facilities and fisheries.”

All very laudable butwarmed the shirts and green shirts playing each other Yard)the to ensure we had properly upjust since didn’t want to pull any drinking read in the paper that the Pope does.”

King Charles II (55) but by historians as well, Continuing January scalping when the Jimmy Nail song overlooked Queens.

Neglected not just by her pensioners who could barely until frostbite got the better of us and forced us confi rmed that they were but I thought this to be a t……….wearing make-up and lying in front item on their menu was Mediterranean Olives. because colour blind people often struggle to down of toClass. the Bay in Dragon (Water) muscles. turned up and apeople minimum ten required or I drank theUnfortunately, other three only six of us Hand Grenades For Beginners One ofNot the regulars ordered wine. husband, King Charles II (55) but by historians “Ain’t No Doubt - She’s Lying” came on the size of shoe does your mouth take?”

Written off as plain ofwere face and dull ofthe personality, sheH were seen hanging onto back toina the hotelsame we did not need.

Much fun,stand but Overheard pub: “Every time“What we distinguish between the two. criticising Staying with the drink, there has always the rope Taxis. very stupid question.

I would have said something men.”

Ricky Tomlinson visit was off.

I engaged four old-timers who were in the bar (could have been the as well, poor cow.

Written off as plain of face wireless.

Totally unscripted, we, the Wales, maskedand asons. comewehere a lamppost, for support, rather quickly found here.” out thatYou there is a limit to how we come don’t say. them of course but this would affect bottle offalling Jennen Blank.

One assumes he Chenin Blanc but one may scarcely merits athey mention in on the history books. been much snobbery attached toknow wine. dullcomes of personality, she scarcely merits a empty mention I yelled and shouted allVale) the time.

Then I illumination. like: “I meant don’t cently asked by the son a good friend singers in theInn. chairs and our masked stylists theme: “This is what from an aforementioned ones from the Taff and asked them whether fancied having a much mulled wine one can drink before than An Canada, Ireland, Tonga, Russia, South Icooked was in a of local hostelry the other evening, The Unwelcome Thedrinking Memsahib was atAfrica her in the history books.

However, she lends her tten about sell-buy dates before Indeed, people make a living from it, discovered………….. oven gloves. all started to sway and sing to the music in a she lends herin name to the New Borough over. afternoon they would andregulars Japan.

This had me mind of that quote when madam was f I would write aHand urology his that evening, one of the older patrons said toofthey his equally oldYork comrade: “Jo head.” brewery tour andGrenades freeforbeer for the afternoon.

Fearing some of honey trap, took Soap on ForDad’s Beginners Class.

One ofHowever, the ordered wine.

He asked for awhen name to kind the New York Queens where reminiscent fromBorough The Full Monty but Iscene am making a stand because of the my local supermarket on a Friday are only 3 shops I really from BBC snooker commentator Ted Lowe whohis delightful never…… remember.

Do you know, I make spelling errors so often it’s of Queens where Son and heir lives with with us but I didn’t the heart say eulogy somehave convincing that my offer Cautiously, they agreed tolast join us.

Picture thehave forgotten.” Q Son heir lives with his delightful girlfriend, bottle ofto Jennen Blank.

Onegenuine. assumes he Chenin Blanc but one may be wrong.

Later they alland started dancing inof the atwe the awas rope morning.

I meant will tell you again in half an hour as you will famously said during one hisqueue commentaries: lockdowns.

I’m giving up wine, every day, all “I where you were when they were handing osavers, perishables that would make the in the blood.

I’m typo!the withthat Mark (on leS) isknow the dynamic CEO of Shannon.

Seems Catherine fame at Boots and single note.

IDacey have since discovered that they ate them both!

Moments later theto same bloke job centre.

Fortunately all sharp implements evening, one of is the olderwho patrons said to “And his equally old comrade: “John died this scene, 5pm on afound sunny moved them out wZoom whatcall he meant.

Anyway, here girlfriend, Shannon.

Seems Catherine found fame at for those of you who are watching in black A drunk who smelled like a Pope on a month.

No wait, that’s not it.

I’m giving up. I said last.

This is her signature.

Just got to fi nd her the brains out………getting an extra helping of In fact I had some doubt whether were downed for a few short minutes and then were a Country and Western Band who play all offered me eight legs of venison for £200. oup of Colleges.

It does not need me to suggest the uncanny morning.

I willattell you again in half an hour asand you willa have forgotten.”

Quite poignant. white, the pink is next to the green.” and drugs and sausage weekday evening at the side brewery got on bus and sat I was in a café a well-known the car park many rote: chequebook now. last.without Thisfurther isday herall signature.

Just to– find heris one of ou Catherine ofagot Braganza Wine month! comment, just like in musical, mouth.” toactor the Ricky car the journey home. theirfor music backwards.

Apparently, your lover “£200?

That’s tooto dear.”

(Two deer oh (67) please rope supermarket a versa. lady in down nextevery to a priest.

The obut Tomlinson orwhen vice entrance the Brewery onthe I have had enough of months ago as a urite Mike tale, (he was affectionately everybody went back to their day job like Catherine of Braganza (67) is one of our most Interesting lyric we heard on the wireless dog comes back, yourselves). theyour queue indo front of me askedand you cease ecause returns, it’s nothing to with EU drunk's shirt was stained, overlooked Queens. not jus Two people out onhisa first date.

“Do you chequebook now.

Caroline Street where four nothing had happened.

Lockdown has a lot to Neglected other day: “Sports bra and aconsequence Maserati car.” you know, ifbright you wore soundproof trousers no direct sabout Gaddafi his likeness for a of sausage bap.

The overlooked Queens.

Neglected not just by her husband, don’t have toan home school tobecause be alcoholic. face was full of red sell-buy dates before but a staff recent trip“Do to my local supermarket ser inspection of the packaging answer for butthing that was very funny. likeof Merlot Tammy?”

“Yes, but you Who would thought of that Ahe strange occurred tocombination? us re our pensioners who could barely once owned one chewed pencils member Clare (52) We don’t follow or Perhaps care about oneKing would hear a word you’re saying.”

Charles IIdon’t (55) but by historians as lipstick and had ahave halfCharles IIthe (55) but by historians aswhich well, poor cow. ofKing Covid19.” mer Libyan leader), involved a informed tripImake nalmost highlight ofdon’t the noEarlier perishables that would the asked following Monday.

Instand fact Ihave ofthe origin for fruit and veg like Apparently many including a poet called We follow care about so-called celebrities at Nolan Towers but were amused to her that there was a or twentyin the same pub a Shakespeare customer aforementioned holiday.

When we left home so-called celebrities at Nolan pronounce the “t.”

“Oh, Ok.” Looks at were seen hanging onto empty bottle of wine sticking Written off as plain of face and dull of personality, she used to write his famous works.

He used The Leader of The Opposition and I were this is why I do not run o watch Wales play France.

We Dave Cox whom I have just “discovered”. minute wait for Thefor lady Written off asand plain oftoface and dull“just of Towers but were amused to ntina.

Sothe these comestibles ther they would make itformer to food. the car the journey home.

What is going one day leS(it on the sell-buy date.

Itmale takes an inordinate amount ofaskill supply goods an MOT then it’s serious, serving person if Gurnard was a fish we had aMichael Prime Minister Queen “Is that real face or are you still celebrating out ofyour his pocket.

He opened waiter: “Two Merlots for me and Ammy.” read that model Jerry Hall (66) was her multi-billionaire husband, Rupert listening to Ball on the wireless. aproperty lamppost, for support, rather scarcely merits adivorcing mention in the history books.

Intellectual rules prevent me quoting said: “OK I’ll havewith a bacon bap read that former model Jerry to chew on it so much that I couldn’t tell whether it was a pub. eloped a 20 year relationship in-@me” with 24 hours to spare.

Waste levels must be astronomical. his newspaper and started was on the fish specials board which was a as Head of State.

On coming home we had otic climes, picked, packaged, He was interviewing Donny Osmond who ng toado with EU supply issues?

Closer inspec@on of the packaging along for theMurdoch excitement. scarcely merits ahermention the histor and minimum of tenReprising were required or Halloween?” than illumination.

Andog instead.” her role, However, she lends her name to the New York any of his work here but I encourage you to (91).

The headline was “Jerry and the Pacemaker” which IBorough thought wasinvery Hall (66) was divorcing Our friend Dr HPrime has trained her Daisy eading.

A couple minutes later,content he asked theorpriest, "Father, what causes arthritis?"

A in wife sent her side and played them home and bit of of aClare clue).

Not with this they also ahim female Minister and aLondon King.

Would had been appearing in panto at the not 2B. Staying with the Bard, days gone by, rhe airport, distributed UK (52)around informed her2B that A recent WalesOnline article bizarrely claimed look up.

A real comedy genius and hugely multi-billionaire husband, origin for fruit and veg like Tanzania and Argen@na.

So these Staying with food, I have been doing some research into what is no longer manufactured in of Queens where Son and heir lives with his delightful visit was off.

I engaged four old-timers afternoon they would "Mister, it'swanted caused bytoloose living, being with cheap, women, too much alcohol, and clever.

Well the Western Mail.

In case were wondering, newspapers include the to bring heryou a bottle of red wine.

No surprise Palladium.

Donny was speaking about a “Your bus leaves in 10 minutes...

Be under it.”her However, she lends to(Canada) the N know whether the fish piewicked contained have got good odds at the bookies for thatname there was still adone twenty-minute husband aquote romantic French that international weekends.

On GPs were working 40 months an hour refreshing.

Rupert Murdoch (91).

The delivered to the shops and put on in order to attract women, I used to use this from the UK. The list is endless but here is a small sample: Pringles (Belgium), Smar@es girlfriend, Shannon.

Seems Catherine found fame at who were in the bar (could have been thethetoboard vated in exo@c climes, picked, packaged, taken the port or airport, contempt for your fellow man," the priest replied.

"Imagine that," theformer drunk muttered.

He never…… remember. acting mentor of been his who told him the wait for food.

The lady stormed really, she’s a Bordeaux collie.

I was sat shellfish.

The pie was written up on happening.

I have pondering the -whiff?

A phrase we overtime.

I have no doubt they are ridiculously headline was “Jerry and the age of the person they are reporting on to avoid confusion with other people of the same text message.

She wrote: “Ifhim.. you are sleeping, send cular trip (Mike’s fiones rst), we didpriest, it in Taff the ne day left on the sell-buy date.

It Vale) Colman’s English Mustard (signature.

Germany), Terrys Chocolate Orange (France) and HP (Houses of Queens where Son and heir lives ofwi to reading his paper.

The thinking about what had said, turned tofor the last.

This her Just got to find following: “Theatre iswill the only place where you aforementioned from the “Well, it’s night out and aher night off Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Act III, Scene IV, line 82: Iisa have also been reading Bob Mortimer’s off! be thehaddock heat.

Recent crossword clue: “Brush the Keturned warehouses then delivered to40 the shops and put on the shelves with Pacemaker” which Imade thought stretched atMust present, but months an hour? as containing cod, andunder salmon andhe no changes which need to be tofor thehis with She Who Must Be Obeyed the other mes from the 18th Century Parliament) Sauce (The Netherlands).

Staggering. name.

This avoids any possibility that a defamatory statement might be taken as referring man and apologised: "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to come on so strong.

How long have you had can dream in public.

Your job as an actor is eand amount of skill to supply goods me your dreams.

If you are laughing, send me your oned way, a bus to Dover, ferry crossing autobiography which I also strongly carpet 5 and 4.”

The answer was “gloss over.” was very clever.

Well done asked them whether they fancied That’s over three years anoverheard hour. The aonly wayask family.”

A drunk who smelled like a nowSeems bloody shellfish!

Iwhat then bloke Post she Office Royal Pillar Box initials that Catherine girlfriend, chequebook whilst sipped a glass ofShannon. wine Ihave am not sure is the tonow. deliver thatFunny, dream” which weand thought was arthritis?"

"Ito don't arthritis, Father," drunk said,smile. "but I day just read in the paper thatthepoignant recommend. clever, Picture the poor student trying to maybe learn English.

Western Mail.

In case you 24 spare.

Waste levels ething not straight was to do this would be to time travel so Ifwith you are eating, send me a bite.

If very you are onhours to Paris.

Ito, was sitting next toto, him.

At or attributed another person the same name.

Annoying though ain’t it.lady who?”

Here’s one for you: “Knock knock.”

“Who’s there?”

“LiKle old lady.”

“LiKle old having a brewery tour and free beer for the the barman for “a packet of crisps to takeaway.”

Queen Elizabeth is no longer with us.

Two brewery got on a bus and sat happening to our Fair City. and she said, “ITowers love you much, rather good.

Oh yes it In is. he Pope does." but enough about me. itso he recalls ayou tale “Hello.” were wondering, newspapers – tryfollow it in German accent: “If“II need they Student were referring toaDr Who. In “Imy world this last.

This is her signature.

Just got to you like Van Gogh needed stereo.”

We don’t or care about so-called celebrities at Nolan but were amused to cal. had no idea you could yodel.” drinking, send me adown sip.

If next you are meto me that One assumes they cost of the same for either previous examples Itasoccurred uniformed Customs Offi cer came afternoon.

Fearing kind honey trap, First, itsome is the carnage ofonto m the warp and weft).

Of tohere. acrying, priest.

The include the age ofasend the person about having chronic flatulence child understand zis correctly, inbike ze afirst place you know.

Icourt don’t know how I could ever live would be like driving at 40 hours mile which read that former model Jerry Hall (66) was divorcing her multi-billionaire husband, Rupert I was reading about a case where the accused Thanks to my cousin Lawrence for this joke. lanes taking priority over the eat-in or takeaway option so what was he the new ones might have C III PO on them?

Staying with theare drink, there hasbut always been heysaid: took some convincing that my offer they are reporting toMonet avoid which was both embarrassing and aton times tears.

I love Her husband texted back: “ as and “Just hold up your passports brushing benease your carpet zen drunk's shirt was stained, his would be quite slow not unlike towalked I trying amand awas man ofyou awithout certain age soyou.” my threshold does work as well it used to nfused the related you.”

Itolerance said, “Is that you or the wine Iyour into our local bar, The Moaning and , I havewith been doing some research What do you call a confusion Frenchman wearing cars which hasfrom been quickly Murdoch (91).

The headline was “Jerry and the Pacemaker” which I thought was very chequebook now. expecting to recent gain requesting aCardiff takeaway with other people much snobbery attached to wine.

Indeed, very painful.

During one particular attack he of add shiny paint over it.

You British!” was described as “having murderous intent.”

I was genuine.

Cautiously, they agreed to join us. negotiate the traffic carnage in par@cularly when being asked to embrace new technology.

I was therefore I’m in the toilet, please advise.” dd I will come along and count them and face was full of bright red followed up with “TheThe Canal Quarter.”

Oh Van talking?”

She said, “It’s me talking the sandals?

Phillipe Flop!

Quickly bythat a aI heartened when saw Gogh sitting at the end on afollowed bar stool.

Finally, Queen Elizabeth famously appeared to). ger manufactured inWell the UK. the same name.

This avoids any possibility clever. done the Western Mail.

InPlease! case you were wondering, newspapers include the people make a living it, but I am making alanes went to the Doctors who managed to to “release packet I from could not fathom.

Which reminds me, City Centre as they impose bike on the Picture the scene, 5pm on a sunny weekday She Who Must Be Obeyed suggested I download a new app called What3Words. poem what I writ: quite disappointed to learn that this had nothing to do lipstick and he had a halfke to me and said “I Pringles didn’t know on TV with Bond Craig) as part This is a Staying with word games, I acompleted aon word wine.” defamatory statement might taken referring shouted “Hey Vince do you want abe(Daniel drink?” stand because of the lockdowns.

I’m giving up theconfusion pressure” forJames him.

He quotes the as Doctor here is arest small sample: of us. age of the person are reporting towhich avoid with other people of the same did you hear about time giant ape started ofturned ours, let’s call her Dr This will open upthe thethey Dock Feeder Canal which We don’t follow or care about so-called celebrities at Nolan Towers w naviga@on aid divides the World into 3 metre squares and gives each unique evening at the side entrance to the Brewery puzzle on my phone and I correctly guessed to, or attributed to, another person with the same of the 2012 London Olympic celebrations.

Isquare a but asRoses saying: “Better an empty house than a empty bottle of wine sticking wine, all month.

No wait, not Happy New Year Dear Reader, the Year of the ed a every passport and Iunder haven’t got one.”

IWithin with camping. runs Churchill Way. days there will aday, brawl over the use ofthat’s a table tennis table in s (Canada), Colman’s English can bedrive red, Violets are purple.

Just name.

This avoids any possibility that a defamatory statement might be taken as referring combina@on of three words.

I s@ll about a lot for business, believe it or not and I was Finally, a blessing for the drink: God, in his name.

Annoying though ain’t it. that the word they were looking for was lking outThe with Dr every Rwhere who on Caroline Street four pensioners He shouted back: “No thanks, I’ve already gotmulti-billionaire one Sainted Mother-In-Law was looking for dumped car noisy tenant” which I(66) thought was very good. was musing what one would call James Bond t. I’m giving up.

Wine day all month! be supermarket trolleys andin traffi c cones read that former model Jerry Hall was divorcing her h out of his pocket.

He opened saying. aChocolate karaoke The newspaper headline read Ox. Apparently this year is going to be lucky spiffi ng” or words to that effect.

Then, a to, orbar? attributed to, another person with the same name. though ain’t it. ), Terrys Orange Hadron as in the Hadron Collider.

Having assured that this system would beAnnoying much more accurate than using our sat nav.OI used it for goodness, sent the grapes, tohis cheer both insurance that her stunt driving areno Presumably this was in the days before the who could barely stand were seen hanging in it,now stag nights wading through it,days the occasional in the bath?

Then it occurred to me, Bubble ear.” o presenting.

We recently Finally, sad news, my friend David has lost ID. Finally, the Norwegian navyand haspersistence put barcodes on his newspaper started King Kong, Ping Pong, Sing Song, Ding Dong.

Two people out on a first date.

“Do you like clue what this was really all about I decided with the Ox representing diligence, miniscent of a World War 2 prisoner of war Houses of Parliament) (The the first @me the other day and theworking unique three word loca@on I too was lookingwhich for wasI “You over.

I dead managed toSauce findofa the reasonable policy, Doctors were 40 months an hour.

Murdoch (91).

The headline was “Jerry and the Pacemaker” thoug Finally, a top tip: leave dogsupport, and one largest open-air urinals great and small.

Little fools will drink Seven. onto aTammy?” for rather than the side of itsbathroom ships.

This is Never so when theyyour come Merlot “Yes, but look itpinned. up.

I don’t wish Ipronounce hadront bovvered (see reading.

Atocouple ofyou minutes later, he asked the priest, "Father, what arthritis?" where alamppost, note was sorted itin out and paid for it.footwell She inadverts turn Now he iskindly just Dav. Are Lost!”

Design fault or user error?

Britain.

Next up will be the looking for pile ointment next tocauses your toothpaste! and honesty.

Not for going to be Trump’s year story, Mike ducked down into the gering.

Adios Amigos back to port they can Scandinavian!

Sorry. much and great fools none at all.

My round.

In yet another pub doing the crossword as llumination.

An they would Bye for now Amigos he "Mister, “t.” reimbursed “Oh, Ok.” Looks at waiter: “Twobeing what Iafternoon did there): “Any member of a class of Hasta laWestern Vista. clever.

Well done the Mail.

In casealcohol, you were me with this immortal Welsh-speaking GonDailiers tocovering punt people down it's caused by loose living, with cheap, wicked women, too much andwondering, newspa at and footfor door.

Live Radio then is it? Yamas me Iof piled his coat and mine on top of She was at Bay her weekly nuclear weaponry for subatomic particles that are built from quarks Merlots me and Ammy.”

Chums Hasta La Vista Chums never…… remember. email: “Thank you, the Monet is in the bank.”

I to the in Dragon (Water) Taxis.

Hasta Luego Amigos u: contempt “Knock knock.”

“Who’s there?” for your fellow man," the priest replied.

"Imagine that," the drunk He age the person they are reporting on tomuttered. avoid confusion with other peo beginner’s class.

Athis bloke asked the barperson and thus react through the agency ofof the .” him Not toof be outdone we d not to move, whilst we were both course countered with “There was really Talking Our friend H has trained her dog Daisy to bring her a bottle of red wine.

No surprise ttle old Dr lady who?”

“I had no idea returned to reading his paper.

The priest, thinking about what he had said, turned to the I was in a local hostelry the other evening, The strong force.

The hadrons embrace mesons, A drunk who smelled like a brewery got if they were still doing two main meals for no need to give me a priceless impressionist to laughing uncontrollably.

The name.

This avoids anysopossibility that a defamatory statement mightofbe ta he following note: “Please really, she’s a Bordeaux collie.

IInn. was satCustoms with Who Must BeHand day whilst Unwelcome The was atTrouble her baryons and given their painting but thank youmany anyway.” £18.

On being an affirmative answer apologised: "I'm sorry, I She didn't mean toObeyed come the on other strong.

How long have you had on man a busand and sat down next to Memsahib aresonances.” priest. ed the bus, missed is I the thencount, wanted tochips knowMike what aato, quark was. he did ordered fish and and lasagne or attributed to, another person thepaper samethat name. Annoying thoug "I don't have arthritis, Father," theand drunk said, "but I just readwith in the Thearthritis?" drunk’s shirt was stained, his face

As we when people type certain age sohave my observed tolerance wasthe fullPope of bright does."red lipstick and he had work as well as it used to a half-empty bottle of wine sticking out of eing asked to embrace new his Staying pocket.with He opened histhere newspaper and been the drink, has always herefore heartened whenofShe started A couple minutes later,Indeed, muchreading. snobbery attached to wine. yedasked suggested I download newcauses he the priest, “Father,awhat

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CARDIFF TIMES 13

In The Words Of

by Carl Marsh

October is here, so it seems the arrival of the cold weather and the time when we all start to whack our heating back on/ up! I’m fortunate to have a multi-fuel burner in one of my rooms, thus allowing me to use coal and wood. Alas, even these have gone up, but not to the higher echelon costs that gas and electricity have! I had a bill from my electricity company telling me that due to the Government cap on electricity charges, I’d still need to pay £4,000 a year, yet I only use £140 at worse - a month now, as my electric car has gone.

Go figure! I might need to pay as I go rather than let them hike my direct debit for no logical reason other than greed.

The Queen’s funeral has happened. We have a new Prime Minister. We have a new King. Yet, I don’t think anything else has changed as the country is in dire straits, with food banks and poverty still rife. So, for once, I’ll leave it there.

REVIEWS Andor - Disney

Away from the usual nicely-nicely sweet and dandy PG-friendly basis for most of the Star Wars offshoots, Andor is a bit darker and violent. In my eyes, I think this is the best release since The Mandalorian, and as already mentioned, dark. Aimed more so at adults, it’s much needed for Disney to go down this route. I love the original Star Wars films and would not amend them for anything, but I’ve grown up now, and the world is a different place, and shows and movies can’t be aimed at all and sundry audiences of 14 CARDIFF TIMES

whatever age they may be. So, fingers crossed, this is how Disney will be, but still with the odd release with that certificate U for the minors and above.

INTERVIEWS

Two chats this month: Martin Bayfield and Blancmange.

Martin is appearing at St. David’s Hall on Friday 7th, October at 7 pm for his ‘Martin Bayfield’s Rugby Legends’ tour. Accompanying Martin will be Sam Warburton and Martin Johnson. Great company, indeed! I’m not a huge rugby fan, and it’s only since living in Wales that I’ve got to understand some of the rules, but I will say that ex-rugby players are some of the friendliest folk you’ll ever meet.

Blancmange was one of those bands from the 80’s that we all would have known had we been around and into music. I chatted to Neal about how it’s been 40 years since their debut album ‘Happy Families’ was released and the new release: ‘Private View’.

Blancmange are also playing at University Y Plas on Friday 14th October.

Have a great October; see you all next month, Carl Marsh Twitter - @InTheWordsOf_CM Facebook - @InTheWordsOf YouTube - InTheWordsOf

Being the creators of one of the 1980s’ most famous songs and 40 years later still making music, Blancmange’s Neil Arthur chatted to me ahead of his Cardiff event on the 14th of October at University Y Plas.

Carl Marsh With a new album out in September and a tour around the UK to coincide with it, and let’s not forget it’s been 40 years since Blancmange’s debut album ‘Happy Families’ coming out, the new album is called ‘Private View’; what’s the reason behind that title?

And I have to say I like how the album combines old and modern music as I can hear sort of a nod to Joy Divisions’ Atmosphere at points on this record.

Neil - Blancmange Well, thanks for listening to it. I do appreciate that.

It’s all water under the bridge, isn’t it? As I’m 64, I’m very excited and feel invigorated about making music. I want to make it more than ever. We all have stuff going on and will reflect on what’s happening around us more than usual. [The album and its title] deals with many potentially personal things, but it’s not necessarily about me. It’s called ‘Private View’ because it’s someone’s private view, and it could be a private view of an exhibition. It’s been a lot of fun putting it together.

Carl Marsh There’s a song called ‘Chairs’ on this album, which must have a double meaning.

Neil - Blancmange It started off as (being called) ‘All My Chairs At Home’ as back home in Lancashire when I was a kid, there was a woman who was a friend of my Mum who happened to be as old as my Nan called Mrs Sharp, who was sharp by name and by nature! So, it’s a phrase about always having your chairs in order, just like Mrs Sharp was about how she never missed a trick!

Carl Marsh ‘Living On The Ceiling’ is perhaps the song that launched you into the musical stratosphere on both sides of the Atlantic. What came first when that song was written, the lyrics or the music and the famous sitar part of the song?

Neil - Blancmange I’d just left college and moved into a Housing Association house up in Wood Green with some friends with whom I was at college. We were messing around with some music one day, and the tune just came about by mistake when myself and Stephen [Luscombe - past band member] had started humming - incorrectly - along on a tape recorder.

We listened back and realised it was a mistake, but it sounded interesting. On the original recording of that song, it was just me on the guitar, but Deepak [Khazauchi] came in on the sitar. I think my distorted guitar just stays underneath it. Then Pandit Dinesh played the tablas, and this then took us on the journey, you see.

CARDIFF TIMES 15

He is an ex-British Lion and England rugby legend, let alone not mention that he starred in all seven Harry Potter movies! The night promises chats with him and his two guests for Cardiff: Sam Warburton and Martin Johnson. St David’s Hall - Friday 7th October.

Carl Marsh At the Cardiff leg of your tour, you’ve got Martin Johnson and Sam Warburton, and the latter I have met, and I have to say, is one of the nicest sportsmen I’ve had the honour to meet. So what’s your story about how you became friends with him, as he’s a Welsh fans favourite?

Martin Bayfield Well, I’ve been lucky enough to work with Sam a bit now on BT Sport on European rugby, and I still find myself standing next to him and Brian O’Driscoll, and I’ll be thinking, “Bloody hell, I’m working with these guys”. And they’re legends, you know. With Sam, you got a double Lions captain, likewise with Martin Johnson. But, as you say, one of the most approachable and one of the most genuine guys.

He’s pretty happy to talk about the good and the bad. He is quite happy to talk about his fears and his worries. You need to think about how young he was when he retired. The annoying thing about him is that he still looks like he could run rings around me on a pitch! [Laughs] I follow him on Instagram and keep telling him to stop posting pictures about how fit you are! He’s unreal.

He’s just a great bloke. He’s a guy that you’d want to spend a lot of time with. And I don’t know him from a playing point of view. But I can see why he was the success that he was because he’s just a good guy. And to get that in front of a crowd will be amazing.

Carl Marsh And when it comes to talking on the night, you’ve only got so much time and based on my experiences of chatting to ex-players, you guys can talk for ages, and rightly so, the stories are stellar. So, how are you going to get your chat condensed in such a short amount of time? And what made you create this tour in the first place?

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Martin Bayfield I’d be flattered to think people are coming just to hear me. They’re not. I’m just there to hang it all together.

This idea came about in Lockdown, the same idea around the book I’ve just published. Will Carling got in contact with a few Rugby players and me and said that he was getting requests from people whose grandparents - primarily - were stuck in nursing homes or they’re stuck at home, they can’t get out, and it’s getting them down, and they’d love to hear stories about rugby. And it suddenly made me realise how important it is for people to reminisce; re-engage, and reconnect with a sport that they love.

And it suddenly made me realise how much I love rugby and how much I love what it’s given me and the people involved in rugby. And yeah, I’m lucky enough, and you’ll be the same as we talk to the internationals, and we go to the big games, and we sit at the big houses and watch a game of rugby with 85,000 people around you. But yet, I’m just as happy watching a game of Junior rugby, and there are just as many characters and funny individuals. And that was the idea of doing this tour and the book.

KELLY BANLAKI as Jovie

STEVEN SERLIN as Buddy the Elf

JORDAN CONWAY as Matthews

presents

BASED ON THE HIT MOVIE

27 DEC 7PM | 28 DEC 11AM | 28 DEC 3PM motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

Let your little monsters run wild this Halloween at Wild Place Project Join us at Wild Place this half term to explore our spooktacular Halloween trail, the perfect activity for all energetic little monsters! Only five minutes from Cribbs Causeway, Bristol.

From Friday 21 October to Sunday 6 November grab a Halloween activity trail leaflet to guide you around our site.

Can you find all of the exciting, spooky scenes that we’ve hidden?

Explore the ‘wild wood’ at Webb’s Brake, which will be transformed with over 300 pumpkins and spooky Halloween scenes!

Children who come dressed in their favourite Halloween costume, or bring a carved pumpkin to add to our trail, will receive a 20% discounted entry by using the voucher code: WILD20. Plus everyone who completes the Halloween trail will receive a ‘sweet’ prize at the gift shop.

There’s so much to discover at our 50-acre site (the equivalent of 25 football pitches) Be amazed as you travel through the award-winning Bear Wood with brown bears, lynxes, wolves and wolverines living in the natural surroundings these species would have done in England thousands of years ago.

And in the walled garden, from South Africa, there is the everpopular colony of meerkats and a family of dik-diks, some of the smallest antelopes in the world.

In the space of a few hundred yards your little ones can see giraffes 18 CARDIFF TIMES

from Cameroon, lemurs from Madagascar and gelada baboons from Ethiopia. You can even get up close and personal with our lemurs in our amazing walk-through exhibit!

This half term is also the perfect time to explore 50 acres of beautiful, autumnal outdoor space as our woodlands and the glorious Tower Meadow turn from green to gold.

Don’t miss our fascinatingly fun animal feeds and talks throughout the day (see the website and information board at the Wild Place entrance for details).

And why not grab a coffee and enjoy a moment’s rest, whilst your children burn off some energy at our indoor and outdoor play areas dotted around the site!

There’s soooo much to do at Wild Place Project this half term!

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From Liberty Bodices to Lingerie And From Socks to Stockings

by Sara John When I was still ten years old the results of the Eleven Plus, or as it was known then The Scholarship, were sent to individual families in the post.

The Scholarship results were also printed, in a minute typeface, in the Western Mail when it was formatted in the old-fashioned broadsheet large size. The results took up pages and pages.

So, in no time at all family, neighbours, strangers - that really meant most of Wales - were informed. This information, in those days, pre-comprehensive of course, could seriously affect the child’s future.

Mrs Davies from number five knocked the door. She was glowing, delighted with her daughter’s success and hoped it was equally good news at number one.

It was.

The Education Authority for Glamorgan at that time were following, to the letter, Rab Butler’s Education Act of 1944.

That meant that, as far as the Scholarship examination could predict, some students gained academic places whilst others, were categorised as more suited to a technical course and the remainder were destined for more practical manual work. Alongside that there were systems in place that provided, at the end of the first year at the Secondary school, for some children to be reappraised and directed to a different level

and delivery of education. Parents were informed and agreements were reached.

I understand that Rab Butler’s mother went to study at Oxford in the late nineteen hundreds but, being a woman, and a very gifted woman was never permitted to graduate. He had always been determined to improve the education system which traditionally favoured boys; children from comfortably off backgrounds; and the offspring of well-educated parents.

Some of the children who would be going to the County Grammar School had older siblings already there. They were full of horror stories about massive amounts of homework, incredibly strict rules regarding school uniform and how it should be worn.

I remember not believing them and found later that the rules were more relaxed at the boys’ school. It could not be that strict surely? It was and worse.

At the girls’ school which I attended running was not allowed, you had to be strictly on time, at all times.

You had to change into plimsols on arrival and before leaving (called daps in those days) because the floors were highly polished parquet. Hair, if long enough had to be plaited and OFF the collar. Gymslips had to touch the ground when you knelt down. In second year Form Six you wore a skirt and the same rule was applied.

So at the age of maybe eighteen you travelled on the school bus down the valley dressed like a ten year old.

I nearly forgot to mention the dreaded beret.

There was a ritual burning of our berets when we left school some years later!

Very few of the teachers were married, but the rules about not employing married teachers had begun to ease. Most of the unmarried teachers had been pupils there themselves. Some of us suggested they had been there since the school had been built in 1913.

Many of the horror stories came to pass, only too soon.

Punishments could range from teachers telling one of the “gals” to her face in front of the entire class that she should be in a Reformatory. There were many instances of a teacher telling a student to stand outside the classroom door because she, the teacher, had

20 CARDIFF TIMES

decided she could not stand the sight of her in class.

a grownup life.

Punishments for a whole class were not uncommon.

We were kept in at going home time. That was called detention. This was deemed totally unfair because some girls lived within easy walking distance of the school, but others, lived at the top of the Valley (either Fach or Fawr) a good ten or twelve miles away. Our student bus passes were deemed not valid on the normal service buses, so you had to pay if you missed the school bus. In addition girls living north of Treorchy or Ferndale needed three different buses to reach home. The journey could take a couple of hours.

We were taught to be humble almost servile. Not to question, not to answer back – no one dared. We were being processed for a career in teaching or The Civil Service. Both those career choices did not employ married women. If you married you resigned! You had no choice. Even some years after the war jobs were being reserved for men.

At that time few families had a telephone at home and this was obviously, also decades, before mobile phones.

How much we did not know. And, did not know that we did not know it!

How to achieve success. How ‘to live’. How to make a plan and make it work for you. There was no help available.

At that time, well after the Coronation but before the sixties really changed so much, we were at the beginning of that new era. It would however be some long time before we realised we were being well educated but not, in any way developed or ‘finished’ for

We sensed the culture of the school was ‘suggesting to us’ that going to University would be a waste of three years. In the Valleys many girls who would leave school at 16, who may have been in junior school with us, still carried on the habits of the previous century.

Marrying at sixteen or seventeen with early subsequent pregnancies, was not uncommon. After years of excessive homework and being treated, without any opportunity to speak out or speak up the idea of working in a local cosy, sleepy office AND getting paid for it was not unattractive. But some of us realised it would be short term.

The Valleys then had not opened up to wider influences. People stayed put and commuting to Cardiff to work every day was ‘not convenient’.

Weather, length of journey, the walk to your nearest railway station, and at seventeen or eighteen still having no money all combined to encourage low

CARDIFF TIMES 21

expectations of personal progress.

It was clear years later at our school get-togethers when we knew more about the fast-changing world of the Sixties that the totally terrifying headmistress was quite a harridan to the staff as well as to the pupils. Apparently, she did not approve of private conversations, or verbal help or support between staff and pupils.

I recall only one occasion when we encountered help and advice and I suspect this was enforced by the Education Authority rather than the Headmistress.

This was a visit, when we were in first year Form Six from a careers advisor. He spoke for a while then went around the audience to ask what they were going to do when they grew up. One friend, excellent at science said she wanted to work as a marine biologist. “Oh!” he said, again in front of everyone, “You will never get a job doing that”. After that show of rudeness most of us answered when asked with a mumbled “I have not decided yet”.

Writing of one thing has led me to others. The advantages. And, Yes! There were many.

By the time we reached the Sixth Form we were a smaller group and therefore more together. This helped us to be more determined, more articulate and increasingly more aware of the world outside.

An English lecturer from Aberystwyth University arrived on an exchange with our beloved English teacher, Miss Ormond She asked and then encouraged us to set up a Debating Society. She seemed to have little knowledge of our Headmistress by then in her final year of service. By this time she was known as the only headmistress in Wales who would not permit some of the girls to form a Scripture Union. “No Societies”! she had said.

Our temporary English mistress was an expert on D. H. Lawrence and at that time the Court case regarding the publication of Lady Chatterley was being heard.

She devoted a lesson to explaining what the row was about. It was about the class system. It was not adultery, it was not about dalliances, it was not about sex.

We were asked to decide on the topic for the Debate which would take place after school hours in the main hall.

We asked if the boys from the neighbouring school, sixth form only, could be invited.

The topic chosen was “Is Chasity Outmoded?” and Mrs Hughes the English lecturer from Aberystwyth went off to ask the headmistress if this debate could come to 22 CARDIFF TIMES

pass?

The answer as we suspected was No. No. No! The teaching was first rate. When you were taught you stayed taught. You more than retained the tailored information.

I reckon my love of books supported by the public library, my penetrating curiosity to know things, a good memory and exposure to films such as Spring in Park Lane encouraged me to look forward to my future.

Families, marriages, children, aprons, making cawl, knitting, ironing, queuing in the Co-op: none of these activities appeared in Spring in Park Lane (starring Anna Neagle and Michael Wilding) or any other films of the time. But I had seen for myself what life could be like. A cream bedroom, two hundred electric table lamps, all left on when you go out, wonderful, generous velvet curtains beautifully draped, a car you step into, a white telephone at the bedside and candles on the table at dinner.

First year Form Six was, for me the best year at school. ‘O’ levels all done. ‘A’ levels selected. Career choices all mapped out. It was a year that was over very quickly.

Coming back after the school holidays and recognising that we had little more than six months to finish the ‘A’ level syllabus and get prepared for the ‘A’ level examinations in May and June. Applications were being sent off rapidly to Universities, and Teacher Training Colleges, teachers being one of Wales’s best exports after miners and ministers.

There was little printed matter available then on careers for school leavers. There were also many restrictions on entry requirements, for example ‘A’ Latin was essential for gaining a degree in English. German was essential for some of the Science courses available. Many Science text books were still available only in German.

Careers or rather professions were for the most part closed to women, or ladies as they would have been referred to then. This would have included The Law, Banking, Accountancy, The Church, Medicine, Architecture, and Civil Engineering.

Although I must mention this; two girls of my year who were brilliant at Maths and Physics achieved places at Glamorgan Technical College (now the University of Glamorgan) to study Civil Engineering.

Both did well and one of them ended up lecturing on Civil Engineering in the University. It was early days, which made it all the better! My earlier ambition to be a mining engineer had been erased long before.

My further education choice was Art School, in Cardiff. After a whole day of interviews and practical examinations decisions were made and I was offered a place.

Last day at school, facing for the most part the unknown. We still needed good results from our examinations. We would know the results around the middle of August. That last afternoon we said goodbyes knowing some girls in our group we would never see again. One went to the Sorbonne, one went to the newly opened Sussex University, a goodly few went to Aber as it is known. Since then a number of us have met up and talked ourselves dry. Under such an uncomfortable and unchristian regime, we discovered some girls, and none of us had any representation, had actually asked to be moved to the Technical Grammar School.

Next month’s article will contain insights into my real grown-up life beginning at last. I had the job I wanted.

We worked hard, we had a lot of fun, we made lots of friends. Show Business here I come.

I promise no more complaining, we will look behind the scenes, film a movie in the States, hear about some very great singers, and enjoy some funny tales.

Do not miss it.

CARDIFF TIMES 23

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The night out we all need right now Sherman Theatre will stage their new version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream from 14 – 29 October, directed by Artistic Director Joe Murphy. The Sherman is celebrated for its fresh new takes on classic plays including The Taming of the Shrew and Hedda Gabler.

Now, its new production of Shakespeare’s classic comedy promises A Midsummer Night’s Dream for our times.

Theatre doesn’t get more feel good than Shakespeare’s joyous and hilarious tale of love. You will feel your spirits lift and your heart soar in this magical night out full of fun and laughter. Sherman Theatre re-tells this classic play as a story about love in all its forms with new Welsh language adaptations by Mari Izzard and Nia Morais, creating a rich bilingual theatre experience. A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be performed in English and Welsh, and Welsh language dialogue will be captioned as part of the production at all performances.

Nia Morais said “I’m thrilled to be involved in this project as I have always wanted to work on a Shakespeare production.

Adapting has been an exciting challenge and I can’t wait to watch the show!”

Mari Izzard added “After working on a production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the RSC back in 2016, I knew that there was a beautiful bi-lingual version waiting to be explored inside this tale that we all know and love. I’m so excited to be bringing this to life with Nia and the team!”

The Sherman has assembled an exceptional Welsh and Wales-based cast comprising Dena Davies, Leah Gaffey, Sion Ifan, Hannah McPake, Lauren Morais, Tom Mumford, Sion Pritchard, Nia Roberts and Rebecca Wilson. Members of the Sherman’s non-professional theatre group, Sherman Players, will be joining the company as Mechanicals.

Joe Murphy said “Few plays have the capacity to bring as much joy to audiences as A Midsummer Night’s Dream; it’s the play we all need right now. I am so excited by the new perspectives Mari and Nia have brought to the play and I can’t wait to start working with this sensational Welsh and Wales-based cast and creative team.”

The Sherman wants to ensure that the cost of tickets is in reach of as many people as possible. Under 25s can see A Midsummer Night’s Dream for half price. The Sherman have also introduced a new scheme, Pay What You Can Previews, which will allow audiences to pay how much they are able to for A Midsummer Night’s Dream on 14, 15 & 17 October.

CARDIFF TIMES 25

PRIZEFIGHTER: THE LIFE OF JEM BELCHER A MUST SEE FILM

by Ralph Oates

Matt Hookings No Ralph Oates What made you decide to take up acting?

Over the years there have been a number of films produced about the sport of boxing. Some have been good, some not so good. Recently I viewed a film titled Prizefighter: The Life of Jem Belcher on Amazon Prime. The film is based on the life of a fighter who was ahead of his time and who’s skills inside the ring took him to the top of his profession. The star of the production is Matt Hookings who plays the part of Bristol born Belcher. Matt gives a superb performance as do the rest of the cast. This is a film which I recommend highly.

Since I write a boxing column for the Car-diff Times, I felt I had to include the film in my latest offering for the magazine.

I feel all fight fans even non fight fans will enjoy this knockout movie which really punches its weight. I contacted Matt for an interview which he kindly agreed to do.

Ralph Oates Where in Wales were you born?

Matt Hookings Newport, South Wales Ralph Oates Are you married?

Matt Hookings I developed a love for films and acting since a very young age. I used to watch films to help me sleep as a young child. I accidentally watched Child’s Play when I was 6 years old which caused nightmares for weeks. To fight the nightmares, I would start watching a different film every night to take away the images from Chucky. From that point on I became obsessed with old classical Hollywood films and ac-tors such as James Cagney and Humphrey Bogart. I have watched a film every night since.

Ralph Oates Many great actors have emerged from Wales over the years, do you have a particular favourite?

Matt Hookings Anthony Hopkins and Christian Bale are both truly amazing.

Both are on my bucket list to work with.

Ralph Oates Your father David Pearce was a British and Welsh heavyweight champion. Did you ever box, be it ama-teur or professional?

Matt Hookings No, I haven’t had any fights yet, but I would love to fight in the near future.

Ralph Oates Who is your favourite old time fighter?

Matt Hookings Jack Johnson, Mike Tyson and Arturo Gatti Ralph Oates Who is your favourite modern day fighter?

Matt Hookings Tyson Fury and Conor Benn

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Ralph Oates What was the best boxing contest you ever witnessed?

Matt Hookings Anthony Joshua vs. Wladimir Klitschko which took place at Wembley Stadium in London on the 29 April 2017. The fight saw Joshua retain his IBF version of the world heavyweight crown and also win the vacant WBA (super) and IBO versions of the championship when he stopped Klitschko in round 11. It was an exciting battle.

Ralph Oates Wales has produced many outstanding boxers. Who is your favourite Welsh fighter?

Matt Hookings Joe Calzaghe who held all four major versions of the world super-middleweight title the WBO, IBF, WBA and WBC and retired from the sport undefeated in 46 professional fights.

Ralph Oates Which is your favourite weight division?

Matt Hookings Heavyweight and lightweight at the moment, but this changes depending on the boxers of the mo-ment.

Ralph Oates Do you have a favourite boxing film from the past?

Matt Hookings Somebody up there likes me - 1956, A film starring Paul Newman which is based on the life of Rocky Graziano who went on to win the world middleweight title.

Ralph Oates What inspired you to make the film about Jem Belcher?

Matt Hookings I first became aware of Jem Belcher’s story in 2012 when I was approached by an older gentleman who thought I was the spitting image of David ‘Bomber’ Pearce, British Heavyweight Champion boxer in 1983. I am the son of David Pearce. Any boxing fan back in the 1980’s would have known who my dad was or saw him fight. My dad sadly passed away in the year 2000 due to boxing related injuries he suffered during his career. He is dubbed the ‘Welsh Rocky’ because of his working-class background and underdog status. His story is incredible in itself. He once slept on a bench the night before he was due to challenge

for the European heavyweight championship because he had no money and nowhere to stay. A statue of him stands tall in the city of Newport, Wales where I was born. The gentleman who approached me went on to tell me about an old newspaper article from the 1980’s on my dad which he thought I should read. Next to the section on my dad was a small sidebar story on a fighter from early 1800’s named Jem Belcher… Prizefighter was born.

To begin with I simply wanted to research Jem’s story, but soon enough found myself in the British library hunting down books, court records and anything else I could get my hands on. I became fascinated by his textured life. Jem was the youngest ever champion, he was blind in one eye at 22 and dead by the age of 30, and yet not a single book has ever been written about him. As I delved deeper into the history, I started to find connections between myself and Jem. His height, weight and physique matched my own, almost to exact metrics. He died on the 30th of July which is my birthday. His mother and my mother share the same name Mary, and Jem fought Henry Pearce, who bore the same surname as my father. I quickly turned into an obsessive actor and started training as a boxer without any confidence that the film would ever get made, let alone would I get the opportunity to play the lead role of Jem Belcher. I trained at the same gym that my dad trained when he was alive and fighting. I continue to train there until this day.

Ralph Oates You must have done a great deal of research on Jem Belcher which must have taken a great deal of time?

Matt Hookings Yes 2 years research reading books in the British library and then 1 year watching and studying 160 boxing films from 1927 to present day. 300+ drafts of the script. The project took a total of 12 years from inception to completion. It was a killer.

Ralph Oates Where did the filming take place?

Matt Hookings Wales, England, Lithuania and Malta.

Ralph Oates You have two fantastic actors in the cast in the shape of Ray Winstone and Russell Crowe. It must have been fantastic having them involved in the production.

CARDIFF TIMES 27

Matt Hookings Yes, both were amazing. Working with Ray was like going to school every day with your best mate. A lot of fun. Russell Crowe has this gravitas and presence that can’t be matched by anyone. We played tennis together and he taught me a lot of life skills. I learnt a lot from both actors.

Ralph Oates Ray Winstone was a former amateur boxing before he turned to acting. Did he give you any boxing tips?

Matt Hookings Yes, Ray had 88 amateur fights, winning 80 of them. He can still move and bang. I swallowed a couple of tasty shots from him throughout filming. His movement and speed is still great for an old boy.

Ralph Oates You must be pleased with the outstanding response the film has received?

Matt Hookings It’s been a roller coaster ride which I am still processing. It’s hard to judge the success but people seem to really like the film. I have been inundated with messages on social media, which has touched me. I am pleased with it all but I strive to challenge myself and am a bit of a perfectionist. Next one will be bigger and better.

Ralph Oates Do you think that you will consider making another boxing themed film in the future?

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Matt Hookings There is a bigger world to be told with Prizefighter in the form of a TV series. I have another passion project, a true story about a police officer who was also working with the Mafia during a very textured time in history. But I would love to make a biopic on my dad’s story – David Bomber Pearce.

There is no doubt that Matt is very talented and destined to go on to achieve more success in the fu-ture and in so doing will join the long list of the many fine actors who have emerged from Wales.

Images from the film courtesy of Matt Hookings

PTCFA MENTAL HEALTH Advert A4[P] 3 copy_Layout 1 20/09/2022 09:44 Page 1

Ydych chi wastad wedi bod eisiau gwneud gwahaniaeth?

Gallech gael gyrfa mewn Nyrsio Iechyd Meddwl neu Nyrsio Oedolion.

Mae Prifysgol Caerdydd yn cynnig llwybr rhan-amser i'r rhai sydd am astudio gradd ac rydym yn annog pobl sydd â phrofiad bywyd i ddychwelyd i'r ystafell ddosbarth.

Gallai cymorth ariannol fod ar gael ac mae dosbarthiadau'n gyfeillgar ac yn gefnogol.

Rhaid bod ymgeiswyr sydd am gofrestru ar y llwybr hwn wedi ennill pum cymhwyster TGAU, graddau A-C/9-4. Dylai'r rhain gynnwys mathemateg a Chymraeg neu Saesneg.

www.caerdydd.ac.uk/dysgu Ffôn: 029 2087 0000 Ebostiwch Dr Sara Jones am ragor o wybodaeth drwy pathways@caerdydd.ac.uk

www.caerdydd.ac.uk/dysgu www.cardiff.ac.uk/learn

Have you always wanted to make a difference?

You could have a career in Mental Health Nursing or Adult Nursing.

Cardiff University provides a part-time pathway for those who wish to study a degree and we encourage people with life experience to return to the classroom.

Financial support may be available and classes are friendly and supportive.

Applicants wishing to enrol on this pathway will need to have gained five GCSEs, grades A-C/9-4. These should include mathematics and English or Welsh (if you went to a Welsh-medium school).

www.cardiff.ac.uk/learn Tel: 029 2087 0000 Email Dr Sara Jones for more info on pathways@cardiff.ac.uk

Whether it’s early morning work commute, brunch, dinner dates or a late-night dance in the city...

Celebrating 16 Years in business – telling it like it is – not all Bubbles!

Whilst I can’t believe I am celebrating 16 amazing years of running preschool classes, children’s parties, and events, it does seem like several lifetimes! It is an achievement that should be celebrated - when I reflect on the hard work and difficulties, sacrifices and terrible times we’ve been through – along with all business – it’s a miracle that we are still going!

Who/ where am I and how did I get here?

Prior to setting up my business in 2006, when my younger daughter was 5 months old, I was a Librarian – many find this amusing. It says “Spinster Librarian” on my marriage certificate. I was an accidental Librarian – but that’s another story! As I ran Grangetown Library we had free rein to do whatever got people in the library– so we had lots of events – Eid Parties, Diwali Parties, Beach Parties, Book Club with wine etc. I was imaginative with Petty Cash.

I had always wanted my own business, I am motivated, creative, resourceful, and determined and have issues with authority… After enjoying the events side of being a “Librarian” I set up Baby/ Toddler Classes with a franchise (I was a terrible franchisee and did my own thing instead.)

I ran classes from home with Daisy and we made some wonderful friends. This grew quickly – soon I was hiring venues, being asked for Party Entertainment for little ones and then their elder siblings. I was asked to do School and Nursery sessions, Charity events, Wedding Entertainment, sessions in IKEA (odd) and The Millennium Centre. I started organising my own annual NSPCC Event “The Teddy Bears’ Picnic” which ran for many years. Then there were Beach Parties, Halloween Parties, Christmas Parties - it never stopped!

I never said “NO” to anything and am proud that I have raised over £30,00 for NSPCC and £30,000 for NCT. There

were times I should have said “NO” and I regret these. Never saying “No” is not always a good thing, but I know it is why I am where I am now. For the last 16 years I have worked a 7-day week, long hours with no time away from the business.

My family life suffered; I couldn’t have a social life. “time to myself” was a joke.

As the business grew and grew, I left my franchise and set up independently – being a franchisee was never for me (rules, restrictions…) I had my own activities and had already written many of my own songs - I released my first CD last year! Then Team Fizz came along – Emily Quinn joined 8 years ago and has been totally amazing in her talent, commitment, enthusiasm, hard work and personal support.

We also have Leah and Sarah who are fantastic team members. We have won so many awards and hope to win another soon.

Then came COVID/lockdown/s. Constantly adapting and jumping through unidentifiable hoops took its toll. We were online, then outside in person (no singing allowed!) then inside in person. (I am very proud that we were the 1st Toddler Class to reopen in Wales and have a “Wales Children’s Activities Award; “Triumph over Lockdown Award” to remind me of this. Then more lockdowns with constantly changing and unclear regulations continued for 2 years. We kept going – just. I suffered severe mental health problems under the strain of running the business while coping with several serious family issues and am still recovering. It has not been all bubbles!

Despite all the challenges I have faced I am proud to have been able to bring so much happiness, magic, love, human connection, and joy to 1000s of families and I am privileged to have had so many wonderful experiences – I could write a book! I want to thank everyone who has come to every class, party, and event in the last 16 years and my family and friends for supporting me through difficult times.

An extra THANK YOU to Emily x

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Secure assets and plan for the future The number of couples living together, without getting married or entering into a civil partnership, is on the rise. Recent studies show that cohabiting couples now represent 1 in 5 of all couples that live together, but while it may be increasingly common, there are practically no legal rights when it comes to care or financial matters.

While spouse/civil partner will always have the authority to act as Next of Kin, cohabiting partners may not be afforded that same status. This is particularly crucial for health and welfare decisions.

It is wise, therefore, to set up a Power of Attorney as a couple – ensuring that those rights will be both afforded and protected.

What is power of attorney?

A power of attorney is a legal document letting you appoint others (in this example, your cohabiting partner) to take care of your affairs, should you become mentally or physically incapacitated. It allows them to make decisions and/or act on your behalf.

As a couple, you will likely seek a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), which gives your partner the control of your affairs until it is either revoked, or you pass away.

It is important that an LPA is put in place before you are legally declared incapacitated but don’t worry, this doesn’t give your partner these rights unless you say the LPA can be used. Think of it more as a safety net, in case the worst happens.

How does an LPA work?

You can choose to allow your partner, if it becomes necessary, to have control over your health and welfare, your financial affairs (including any property you may jointly own), or both: Health and Welfare – this will give your partner the right to make care decisions on your behalf, if you are unable to do so, for whatever reason. This includes discussing and agreeing courses of treatments with healthcare professionals, determining the type of care you receive,

be that at your own home, or if you need to move to a care setting. Your partner can only take on this power after you have been declared mentally unfit.

Property and Financial – this allows your partner access to any bank and/or building society accounts, along with pensions, property and investments. It also allows them to deal with things like paying your bills.

How do you put an LPA in place?

There are four basic steps in setting up an LPA. 1. Choose your attorney. While this article is specifically bringing attention to cohabitees, so assuming this will be your partner, you may also want to consider family members or friends, anyone that you would strongly trust, should the worse happen. You can also have more than one attorney and you can make decisions such as whether they have power over different aspects, or whether they have to jointly agree on decisions. It is entirely up to you, just as long as whoever you appoint is over the age of 18 and mentally capable of undertaking the role.

2. Once you have chosen your attorney(s), you have two forms to complete – an LP1H for Health and Welfare and an LP1F for your financial affairs. Due to the complexities it is a good idea at this stage to seek advice from a solicitor.

3. Whilst optional, it is highly recommended that you include ‘people to notify’ when completing your LPA forms, you can do this by sending out an LP3 form to all those named.

Anyone not named as an attorney can be notified – the idea is that this offers an extra layer of protection, since ‘named people’ may be more likely to object or call out tricky subjects that those with a vested interest (your attorneys) may not and they can raise any issues with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG).

4. Once your forms are completed and any ‘named’ people have been notified, your attorney then needs to register with the OPG, either online or by post. You will receive a notification once this step has been completed.

Without an LPA, if you lose capacity, your partner may have to apply for a Deputyship through the Court of Protection. Not only is this a lengthy and expensive process, it is possible that any property you own cannot be sold, or joint bank accounts are frozen until it is approved.

Get in touch If you would like to discuss any of the matters raised in this article and put steps in place to protect yours and your partner’s rights, get in touch. Our friendly, specialist team at Harding Evans have years of experience and would be happy to talk you through the whole process.

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Your Lawyers, For Life

If the time comes where you need someone to bear the load...

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions about your health, finances, care or living arrangements, should you become incapable of doing so yourself.

This is especially important if you are married, or co-habiting as, while your partner may well be your Next of Kin, it does not automatically give them the right to manage your affairs, or any joint assets, should you become unable to do so.

Our specialist team will help you lay plans for the future, giving you peace of mind for whatever may lie ahead.

Get in touch: You’ll find us next to Boots, in the heart of Whitchurch.

13 Merthyr Road Whitchurch CF14 1DA 029 2267 6818 hello@hevans.com hardingevans.com

CARDIFF TIMES 35

Are you a genius?

by Lisa Pryce-Jones

Many people say that they lead such busy lives that they simply cannot relax or do not know how to relax. However, all geniuses take time to relax. People such as Einstein and Isaac Newton made huge contributions to humankind, and even changed the world forever, but they all knew the importance of taking a break. It was during their relaxing breaks that they experienced their ‘eureka’ ground breaking and innovative moments.

So why wouldn’t you do the same? The truth is it doesn’t really matter what you are doing, but rather how you are doing it. Whether you decide to focus on deep breathing, doing some meditation, carrying out yoga, immersing in nature, laying on the sofa or reading they can all be very relaxing. It’s good to remember that you are a human being, not a human doing.

Very often our difficulties come when we experience an inner struggle with our self: “I’m trying, but I just can’t relax” “I’m trying to sleep, but I can’t sleep” “I’m trying to remember, but I can’t remember” “Trying is too trying” “I’m not going to bother trying because I just can’t relax” Instead, let your subconscious take over by inviting your mind to relax. Then invite your subconscious mind to help you e.g.

• to send sleep to you • to remind you where you left those keys There are simple and really effective ways of helping you to operate within your subconscious mind—you simply have to learn the habits of relaxation. I can help you to not only relax, but how to hear and feel it in ways that shuts out all outside noise that’s previously stood in your way of experiencing true tranquillity.

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Remember that you can train your mind to change whatever unhelpful habits your mind has previously created (e.g. reducing anxiety/ stress, sleeping more deeply or changing unhealthy habits - smoking/alcohol/gambling/ spending/ comfort eating etc.).

Learning and practicing the techniques will help you to operate at your best, all through relaxing, just like other geniuses!

If you would like to have a chat to see how I can help you using your sub-conscious mind and also healing then just get in touch: Lisa Pryce-Jones Hypnotherapy & Healing www.hypnotherapyandhealing.co.uk Lisapryce-jones@outlook.com 07427 451992

vineyhearingcare.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW Untreated hearing loss is bad for your brain?

Hearing loss happens gradually over many years and very often people aren’t aware they have a problem. How do you know if you’ve missed something if you can’t hear it?

You may find that people keep mumbling, or diction on the TV is poor and not distinct, so you keep turning it up, you’re more tired or stressed after trying to concentrate so much at social gatherings, so you try to avoid them.

Even when people notice some of these signs – they still put off getting a hearing test or a hearing aid due to the Stigma of hearing aids.

This, however could be detrimental to your health. How? Our ears collect sound, but it’s the brain that actually understands it. So, since our hearing is a mental process, if left this can cause brain shrinkage and communication problems known as Auditory deprivation.

What exactly does that mean? Auditory deprivation can happen when your brain is deprived of sounds you cannot hear. This over time causes the brain to loose its ability to process sound. It can cause a decrease mental load such as remembering, social isolation and depression, poor balance and an increase in dementia and Alzheimer’s. If left Untreated the brain has more problems in understanding and processing speech. You either use it or lose it.

So, what can we do?

We all get our eyes and teeth checked every 6 months, so why not add your ears and hearing to that list. This is the best and most important way to avoid Auditory deprivation by being proactive and getting regular Ear health checks and hearing tests. Whether you have issues or not.

Why not ring us now and book your FREE ear health check and Hearing tests with one of our Qualified Audiologist at our Whitchurch clinic.

We also offer FREE demonstrations and FREE trials of the latest hearing aids.

CALL US NOW ON 02920250121 or email us on vineyhearingcardiff@mail.net.

• • • •

Rechargeable Connect to iPhone or Android Wireless accessories available Tinnitus relief option

Call 02920 250121 and book your free appointment to see the latest developments in hearing technology.

You can have a free live demonstration to evaluate how better quality hearing will help improve your life.

02920 250121 66 Merthyr Road, Whitchurch, Cardiff CF14 1DJ

CARDIFF ENGLISH LANGUAGE SCHOOL REQUIRES HOMESTAY HOSTS Homestay hosts within the Cardiff and Vale Area required for international students <all over 16> Excellent remuneration offered.

Contact Richard 07908 139716 or 02920 225656 richard@we-bridge.co.uk

For over 30 years SP Mirror Wardrobes has continued to serve both South and West Wales with one of the most extensive ranges of made to measure sliding wardrobes that we believe money can buy. As we manufacture all of our own doors we are not governed by a style or size and are proud to offer a true bespoke service.

• Choice of mirror (plain silver, rose, grey or bronze tint) • Choice of coloured glass, with over 30 colours available • Combination doors (mirror/solid panel, colour glass/mirror or coloured glass/ solid panel) • Choice of steel or aluminium/clad frame finishes (colour coded) • 3 year guarantee (against all fitting and faulty materials) • Maintenance free (set and use hassle free) • Expertly fitted or DIY (expert advice given either way • Excellent value for money

02920 340888 www.spmirrorwardrobes.co.uk

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Ydych chi’n hiraethu am fod yn nyrs?

Do you miss being a nurse?

Bydd ein rhaglen Dychwelyd i Ymarfer 20 wythnos yn eich galluogi i ailafael yn yr yrfa nyrsio oedd mor agos at eich calon.

Our 20 week ‘Return to Practice programme’ will enable you to return to the nursing career you once loved.

‘Fe wnes i wir fwynhau fy Gwnewch gais lleoliad a gloywi fy sgiliau nawr ar gyfer mis clinigol yn gyflym.’

Chwefror 2023 Susan Faulkner

‘I loved my placement and refreshing my clinical skills rapidly.’

Susan Faulkner

www.cardiff.ac.uk/healthcare-sciences

Apply now for February 2023

029 2068 7538

Friday 9th December 7:00pm City Hall, Cardiff Join Calon Hearts this Christmas as we celebrate in style and elegance at our Festive Ball Tickets: calonhearts.org/events CARDIFF TIMES 39

FoodCycle’s vision is to make food poverty, loneliness and food waste a thing of the past

by Natalie McCulloch Sharing a meal is a valued past time of many worldwide, whether it be dinner with loved ones, break time with colleagues, a catch up with friends, a celebration or just ‘because’. However, for many people these opportunities are scarce or rarely practiced it seems, perhaps due to loneliness/isolation, bereavement, retirement, poor mental or physical health, homelessness or financial crisis, the list could go on.

Similarly, cooking can be a source of joy and pleasure for some, a chance to experiment, unwind and develop skills and pass skills on, however, for some people, engaging with this love of cooking maybe decreased possibly due to reduced incentive to ‘cook for one’, health issues, limited ability to cook/shop, living on a tight budget, or just increase in a ‘takeout/food on the go’ culture.

One fantastic charitable organisation which aims to tackle the barriers to communities, and individuals within them, of benefitting from the process of cooking and joy of eating together, is FoodCycle.

FoodCycle asked 500+ guests In July 2022 a few questions around the cost-of-living crisis, below are some interesting stats and quotes that came out of it...

• 63% said they couldn’t afford to buy the food they needed (up from 22% in November 2021) • 75% said they often skip meals (up from 23% in November 2021) • 84% said that the FoodCycle free community meal helps with their weekly budget • 89% said that they are worried their financial situation will get worse by the end of the year FoodCycle’s vision is to make food poverty, loneliness and food waste a thing of the past for every community. By creating welcoming spaces for people from all walks of life to meet, eat food prepared by an army of volunteers and have conversations set to support people’s health and mental wellbeing.

These spaces are made possible thanks to hundreds of volunteers who ‘roll up their sleeves’ across the UK and engage their creativity to make delicious nutritious meals from the tons of ‘surplus food’ which is sourced from the generosity of supermarkets, small independent shops and markets. Surplus food is food that otherwise would have gone to waste – it is still fit for human consumption but has no commercial value for the retailer. For example, it may have become damaged in transit, might be past its ‘best before’ date or might have been over-ordered. It’s still

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perfectly good food it just needs a pair of willing hands to put it to good use. In 2021 alone, 3,600 volunteers donated 63,880 hours of their time helping to ensure that 191 tonnes of food didn’t go to waste!

FoodCycle Cardiff volunteer Alex tells us why volunteering is great, “The thing I love about FoodCycle is the immediacy of it. You get to cook a nice meal for someone and see them enjoy it straight away coming together with other people in the local community. It’s incredible. I’m freelance so I mostly work by myself, so it’s nice to be working with people. So, while I’m helping others that are less fortunate, it also helps me.”

Throughout the UK, at various points in the week, community meals are hosted and catered for by volunteers at FoodCycle with attendees being from all walks of life including those on a low income, wanting to have company of an evening, homeless people, people with ill health and single parents. There is no need to have a reason to attend, but hopefully attending will give people a reason to return and spread the word.

The statistics on the impact of these meals speak for themselves with: • 86% of FoodCycle guests saying that coming to a FoodCycle meal makes them feel part of their community • 85% of FoodCycle guests say it gives them a reason to leave the house.

• 83% of guests say they felt happier after attending a Foodcycle meal.

• 82% of guests say they have made friends whilst attending a FoodCycle meal.

Feedback from the attendees and volunteers is wholly positive with mentions of it being: • a welcoming community, • giving them something meaningful to do with their time,

FoodCycle Cardiff Riverside welcomes anyone to attend as a guest and enjoy a FREE hot meal. No need to book. Just turn up on the day!

Come and enjoy company and conversation with others from your local area over a delicious meal, prepared with care by FoodCycle volunteers.

FoodCycle Cardiff Riverside will only be possible thanks to great volunteers giving their time, enthusiasm and energy. If you’d like to volunteer at one of these events, they are always looking for cooks, hosts and food collection volunteers.

• providing a chance to meet people in their community, • routine after retirement • helping them through a difficult time in their life • giving them a chance to eat and learn to cook nutritious meals even when the cupboards are bare.

Don’t take my word for it, here are some quotes from the attendees at the FoodCycle meal groups:“I can’t buy the food I want or need, I always have to skip grocery items because of prices. I’m a mother of two children and it’s a painful feeling when I can’t provide basics.

FoodCycle is great project, it’s not only a hot meal, we also get food bags which help with our weekly budget.”

“I couldn’t buy healthy food because of my low income.”

“Great having FoodCycle as attending helps with my weekly budget and after our meal they give us food to take home which is money saved and put towards my bills.”

“Electric has become expensive will have to cut down boiling water for tea and hot baths. Thank you for your support” “I find FoodCycle helps me very much as I can spread out the food over a few days. I will be 64 in August and I am struggling with payments. Bills or food?”

They are located in Wyndam Street Centre, 3-5 Wyndam Street, Cardiff, CF11 6DQ Meet on Wednesday at 6:30 pm to enjoy good food, conversation and company. If you would like to attend for a meal they look forward to welcoming you! It’s FREE, family friendly and has disabled access/parking/toilets.

FoodCycle’s South West Regional Manager, Alex Hatherly, was delighted to open the Cardiff branch, he reports, ”It has been amazing launching our third Project in Wales and introducing FoodCycle to the Cardiff community.

As the rising cost-of-living continues to hit people across the country including parents feeling the pinch of rising food costs and elderly people worried about turning on their heating this winter, our service is more vital than ever. We are thrilled to be able to provide a welcoming space and a nutritious, three-course meal to anyone in the community who needs it, no questions asked.”

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer please don’t hesitate to contact cardiff@foodcycle.org.uk or https:// foodcycle.org.uk/ If you are over 18, they have a number of different roles from welcoming guests, cooking up a storm in the kitchen, helping collect surplus food, managing regional social media pages or making weekly phone calls. No specific experience is required just a desire to make a difference.

If all this talk of food, cookery and community has given you a hunger to help out – PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO GET IN TOUCH TODAY and help FoodCycle build a society where no one is hungry or lonely.

In July 2021 Cardiff got their very own FoodCycle location in Riverside and it’s looking for people like YOU to attend and help dish up a dose of happiness and enjoy the community spirit over a delicious meal.

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THE PUMPING STATION

ANTIQUES & INTERIORS

With more than 35 different traders under one roof it is easy to while away an entire afternoon at this welcoming destination - you can even enjoy a coffee at the onsite coffee shop.

Here at The Pumping Station you will find so many wonderful examples of clothing, jewellery, antiques, furniture and home furnishings from the Victorian era right through to modern day, there really is something here for everyone.

info@thepumpingstation-cardiff.co.uk

02920 221 085

Monday to Sunday 10:00am - 5:00pm Penarth Road, Cardiff, South Glamorgan, CF11 8TT

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Cardiff: 02920 508770 Mobile: 07815 833 556

CARDIFF TIMES 43

Fashion Done Your Own Way

by Molly Dutton

It’s seemingly been a very long September this year; with the loss of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II marking the beginning of a new era for our country as well as provoking a huge sense of loss that can be felt across all communities in the United Kingdom and beyond.

Autumn is a great time of change, with the season symbolising a time of transition and renewal. It is no secret that this winter could be a very hard one for many families due to the cost-of-living crisis that the UK is currently experiencing and, whilst I am in no position to offer any kind of financial advice, I do hope to use my platform to offer some ways that everyone can continue self-care even as the prices sour up. As a university student, I have become somewhat of an expert when it comes to budgeting and I have slowly realised that self-care and luxury are still attainable even with a small budget. Whilst it is extremely important to prioritise the main things such as food, water and shelter; mental and physical health should also be nurtured and considered important.

Due to this, I have explored some options of affordable beauty and skincare products that can be found in many mainstream retailers, products that are scarily similar to those supplied by high end retailers.

On my exploration of affordable brands, I first pinpointed exactly which type of products I wanted to find duplicates of so that I could compare the results and understand just how much I could save. To my surprise, Aldi was one of the first shops that made an appearance, 44 CARDIFF TIMES

with its beauty range Lacura. This range aims to provide a selection of beauty products at a very reduced price, allowing lovely skin care and makeup items to be accessible for all. I quite literally sprinted to my local store to see what all the fuss was about and was incredibly pleased with what I found. Being someone that is fiercely loyal to the products I use in my daily routine, it was a struggle to open myself up to trying a completely different company.

Despite my initial nerves, the middle aisle did not disappoint (does it ever?) and I selected some beauties. My first choice was the Lacura Original Hot Cloth Cleanser, a foaming cleanser with a cleansing cloth that resembles the famous Liz Earle cleanser but for a whopping £2.99. I am quite anxious about trying new skincare as, being someone who is prone to breakouts, I do worry what they might do to my skin. However, after consistent use of this product over a week, I was amazed at how well my skin adjusted to something new and the lovely results that the cleanser left on my skin.

Glowing, brightened skin is the most prominent result of this product and it now has prime place on my skincare shelf, along with some of my past favourites.

The second item that snuck its way into my basket (as do most middle aisle finds on my weekly food shop) was the Lacura Illuminating Tanning Drops. As most of you will know, Tanning Thursday is a night I take very seriously and, as I now live in an all-girls house, you can imagine the commotion when I came home with this absolute bargain. Tanning drops have been something I have previously feared after hearing horror stories about the reactions that have come about from them. I decided to be brave for the sake of an accurate and trustworthy article and once again, Aldi beauty did not let me down.

The packaging of the drops is simple yet highly effective, showing off the pretty, shimmery liquid in all of its glory, and the product provides just that effect on the skin. Once I had applied my

trusty Bondi Sands tanning foam, I used two to three drops of the tanning drops on the cheeks and forehead and then lightly blended across the face using circular motions. In the morning, despite my nerves (I was picturing Ross from Friends after the tanning booth) the product had left a lovely glow and added a bit of life to my skin.

I am rather partial to a good old facemask; it’s the perfect quick fix before a night out and the ideal addition to a relaxed pamper day.

I have always been very loyal to Garnier as my sole mask supplier, practically jumping at the chance to pop on one of their sheet masks at every opportunity.

Although, given my new adventurous streak, I thought that it was only right to try one of Lacura’s popular tubbed masks and see for myself what all the raving was about. Since working for a skincare company, I have become very aware of the benefits of a night mask, particularly in the hydration and lifting of the skin. Lacura supply their very own night mask called the ‘Overnight Face Sleeping Mask’, which seemed very appealing to me. I took the huge risk of applying this mask the night before a wedding that I was attending, which could have had detrimental effects on the whole of my day, however my skin had a beautiful glow to it when I woke up the morning after application.

The beauty of this sleep mask is that you are not required to wash it off, it simply absorbs into the skin, providing the ultimate level of hydration.

Ultimately, you do wash off the product if you use a morning cleanser, however it is not a requirement which makes life ever so easy.

Even better, it comes to £6.99 and can be picked up alongside your food shop.

Winter can be the most beautiful time of year, but it can also be extremely difficult. For many, the idea of luxury skincare is worlds away but Aldi have reinvented the idea of successful beauty products and allowed many more people to have access to these products which is a wonderful thing.

CARDIFF TIMES 45

Menopause Q&A “What’s all this fuss about menopause lately? I’m sure I don’t remember it being such a “big deal” when my Mum went through it – I don’t think she really mentioned it at all, really – but now every time I turn on a chat show or open a magazine, there it is! What’s going on?”

Some women find simple lifestyle measures, such as reducing alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and managing stress can really help them to cope with their symptoms, and all women are encouraged to address these issues, where possible.

Menopause is the period of a woman’s life where her ovaries start to fail, producing decreasing amounts of hormones, and symbolising the end of her fertile years.

Officially, it is defined as the period from 12 months after her last period, but she may begin to experience symptoms, such as sweats, flushes, mood swings and “brain fog”, several years before her periods stop.

Another drug-free approach is cognitive behavioural therapy, which can be useful to help you understand the changes that are happening to you, the feelings these changes provoke in you, and how to alter the way you approach these feelings, and for many women this can be quite empowering.

The average age of the menopause in the UK is 53 years, and this has been pretty constant for generations. However, while our greatgrandmothers may not have been expected to live long beyond their 60s, women going through menopause now can expect to live for another 30 years at least, which means we can spend up to 1/3 of our lifetime in the post-menopausal state, and this can have implications for our health as we get older.

Thanks to celebrities like Davina McCall, Gabby Logan and our very own Carolyn Harris, MP, the taboo around “the change” is gradually being broken down, and women are being empowered to recognise what is happening to them, to talk about it with their friends and family, and to seek professional support to help them through what can be a challenging period of their life.

“Help! I think I’m going through the menopause – what can I do?”

Menopause is different for everybody – some women seem to sail through it, with very few symptoms which settle within a year or two, but others have a really torrid time, which seems to last forever, and this can have a big impact on work, relationships, and physical and mental health. The good news is that help is available to manage these symptoms!

46 CARDIFF TIMES

For some women, these measures alone are not enough, and there are a number of nonhormonal, over-the-counter treatments which may help, such as black cohosh; however, these treatments may not be suitable for everyone and you should discuss this with your local pharmacist, especially if you are already taking other medication.

Other non-hormonal treatments which can be prescribed by your healthcare team include antidepressants such as venlafaxine and fluoxetine, and other types of medication, like oxybutynin, which may be helpful if you do not want to take hormones, or are unable to.

However, whilst there is some evidence that these can help with symptoms such as flushes, night sweats and mood, they do not necessarily help with many of the other symptoms of the perimenopause, nor confer the same benefits as HRT (hormone replacement therapy).

HRT is the first-line treatment recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), and for the vast majority of women, the benefits of using HRT far outweigh the risks. However, just as everyone’s experience of menopause is different, so there is no “one size fits all” in terms of treatment, and this must be tailored to the individual woman, according to her risks and preferences, in discussion with her health professional.

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Take advantage of Kumon’s Free Trial

At your local Kumon Study Centre, we aim to help children of any age and ability to achieve beyond expectations. Established for over 60 years, the Kumon Method of Learning helps students maximise their ability and realise their potential.

Our students develop lifelong study skills and a passion for learning, along with the confidence to tackle new challenges independently.

The Kumon Maths and English Programmes are individualised, allowing students to start at their own, individually set, starting point and progress to an advanced level at their own pace.

Our programmes place great importance on self-learning, which encourages students to discover how to solve problems independently.

As our students begin to take ownership of their learning, they develop invaluable confidence and self-motivation which transfers across all school subjects, and beyond into their experiences in the wider world.

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We believe this opportunity to thrive on both an academic and personal level should be available to all children. That’s why your local Kumon Study Centre is offering a one-week Free Trial of our Kumon study programmes to all new students until 15 November 2022.

58 CARDIFF TIMES

Your child will be initially assessed so that their level of study can be precisely tailored to their ability. Kumon Instructors set work at just the right level for each child to advance in their studies, at their own pace. Your child will receive personalised, ongoing support from their Kumon Instructor, who will carefully monitor their progress.

For more information and to book your one-week Free Trial, contact your local Instructor.

• Cyncoed 07906 760895 • Grangetown 07539 468030 • Llandaff 02922 362639 • Llanishen 02920 485647 • Penarth 02920 704961 • Radyr 02922 362639 • Roath 02920 498829 • Rumney 02920 509010 • Whitchurch 02920 485647 * For further details, visit kumon.co.uk.

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Mae Kumon yn sicrhau llwyddiant academaidd profedig.

Bydd ein Hyfforddwyr arbenigol yn datblygu hyder eich plentyn ac yn eu helpu i ffynnu yn yr ysgol.

Archebwch eich Treial Am Ddim heddiw!

Cyncoed...........................................07906 760895

Radyr............................................... 02922 362639

Grangetown...................................07539 468030

Roath................................................02920498829

Llandaff........................................... 02922 362639

Rumney........................................... 02920 509010

Llanishen.........................................02920 485647

Whitchurch..................................... 02920 485647

Penarth............................................ 02920 704961

AT HOME | IN CENTRE | ONLINE GARTREF | YN Y GANOLFAN | AR-LEIN

kumon.co.uk

For research findings on Kumon study, please visit kumon.co.uk. Terms and conditions apply. Fees vary. Participating centres only. Please refer to your local study centre. Subject to availability.

I gael canfyddiadau ymchwil ar astudiaeth Kumon, ewch i kumon.co.uk. Telerau ac amodau’n berthnasol. Mae’r ffioedd yn amrywio. Canolfannau sy’n cymryd rhan yn unig. Cyfeiriwch at eich canolfan astudio leol. Yn amodol ar argaeledd.