CARDIFF TIMES AUGUST 2025 by Cardiff Times Magazine

New £600,000 mammogram at Spire Cardiff Hospital delivers faster diagnoses for patients

3D imaging technology to detect breast cancer faster in its early stages, even in dense breast tissue.

Spire Cardiff Hospital has unveiled a new, £600k state-ofthe-art mammogram, which will speed up breast cancer diagnosis for private patients in South Wales.

Spire Healthcare has invested in the latest 3D imaging technology to deliver faster and more accurate diagnostic mammography scans to more people in the region. The Imaging Team at Spire Cardiff is using the 3D imaging technique for mammograms called Tomosynthesis, allowing radiologists and consultants to detect small breast cancers with greater accuracy than before.

The Hologic 3Dimensions mammogram delivers improved image quality, which helps the hospital’s highly specialised radiography teams to detect smaller cancer cells. The technology is specifically designed to more accurately scan dense breast tissue, which is a particular benefit to some women.

The new mammogram, operating Monday to Friday, will increase patient choice and reduce diagnostic waiting times in the Cardiff area. We offer our patients same day testing and diagnosis, as part of our one stop breast clinic led by a Consultant Breast Surgeon and a dedicated Breast Care nursing team.

Patient Deborah O’Connor was recently cared for at Spire Cardiff Hospital with the new mammogram equipment during her four-year check-up following treatment for breast cancer that started in 2021:

“The new mammogram machine is a great improvement compared to the old equipment.”

“The whole team at Spire Cardiff dealt with my care with such professionalism.” Deborah continues. “They treated me with such kindness and understanding, I could not wish for better treatment.”

Hayley Richards, Mammographer at Spire Cardiff Hospital, said:

“This is an exciting time for us at Spire Cardiff, as we are now able to do far more accurate and detailed mammograms for our patients.”

“This investment in technology has enhanced patient comfort with the smart curve paddle, designed to reduce patient discomfort during their mammogram. These features help us as mammographers to always put the wellbeing and needs of our patients first.”

At Spire Cardiff Hospital we understand that finding a breast problem can be very distressing. Led by fully qualified breast surgeons and supported by specialist radiologists and pathologists, the clinic is accessible to selffunding patients, with or without a referral.

If you have private medical insurance, please contact your insurance provider to check if a GP referral letter is needed.

Norway: a week on a boat.

We three went on our first cruise last week, to the Norwegian fjords, and had the most wonderful time. Setting out from Southampton on the 11th and returning on the 19th. We were aboard the Princess Sky and we got out on daily trips of about 2-4 hours duration in Olden and Stavanger, amongst elsewhere. There were 18 different nationalities in the staff, with a large Indonesian cohort, many of whom were there on contracts from 9 to 36 months a large percentage of whom were sending their wages home, and it was as if friendliness and humour was their first language.

Nothing was too much trouble. The prior preparation paid off. Little niceties, like remembering our names and choices were observed. None of the 3 of us have ever had a nicer week’s vacation. There was high-class cheffing going on - with tasty, stylish food and plenty of it.

Simple but important arrangements had been effected, supported by IT that was fit for purpose. The lanyards contained tracker devices so that a parent could not lose a child. Furthermore, the IT operated as a diary and an event’s organiser cum booking clerk. The entertainment was top notch, with variations on a theme of ‘Strictly...’, swimming/sun-bathing, a gym (don’t be silly! Of course we didn’t use it), rock nights, jazz, dancing, magic and then there were the shows. These were acted and sung by people who had fulfilled a dream by getting into the West End or realising that they’d never make the breakthrough and chose the next best option; many times we heard someone or other comment that the Cruise industry is what is keeping the entertainment alive. I don’t know the size of industry, nor the numbers of would be actors, singers and dancers employed on them, but I can well-believe the claim.

All ages were on the ship, frankly, a surprise to me. There were groups and individuals going on to tour the world and others, like us, who were

by Wyn Evans

there for only 7 nights. Of course, we had the occasional alarm. We travelled to Southampton without picking up my walking-stick. We had two hours to find a replacement and we managed it with time to spare. Thank you, Argos in West Quay centre in Southampton. And thanks to our mobile phones, that let us search online for its replacement.

We saved our only real disaster for the end of the trip. Just as The Boss was driving her chair off the boat, literally as she went over the threshold, it died on her. Did I mention that this was with people and their bags surrounding us, making cracks about “that woman there who didn’t charge her battery”.

Well, it is to other wheelchairs, what the US President’s ‘The Beast’ is to lesser cars. Heavier still, given that The Boss necessarily needed to stay in it. There were very many helpers. They operate like Barristers’ taxi rank principle and our helper was one of the more elderly ones and forced under that Principle to help us. He told us the helpers live on tips. We

had 4 significant ramps to climb and a further half mile to push. At one point, it seemed to me that the helper was losing control of Nik. I didn’t want to see her travelling backwards at speed so I let go of the cases I’d been carrying and grabbed the chair. I was still holding my, new, walking stick which got caught-up between my legs and the wheels and saw me tumble to the floor, only with my arm stuck in The Boss’s bag. At least this prevented her wheelchair from travelling any further backwards. It looks like something in the gubbins of the chair’s engines gave up the ghost. Our helper got us to our car and never was a £20 tip harder-earned.

One final thought. You don’t need much queueing, you just get on the boat. No need for all the time-guzzling procedures of an airplane holiday. On a boat, the fun starts the moment you arrive right through to the minute you leave. I’ll post some pics later this week.

A mishap on our Norwegian cruise, but The Girl saved the day! There was one incident I didn’t mention in my write-up about our cruise ship

vacation, above. But, what the heck...!

Compared with land-lubberly baths the cruise liner’s bath was lower to the floor, and less wide than usual, with narrower edges to sit on.

One morning, I sat on the edge, hoisted my ankle to my knee, and used my faithful nail scissors to start trimming my toe nails. I must have done half of them. I’d had my bath, so was as naked as the day I was born. Guess what, the edge of the bath was evidently too narrow for my cute Welsh posterior. I slid rather inelegantly down into the bath, wedged-in by my back and the back of my thighs. Nothing was accessible to allow me to grab onto and pull myself out. I was stuck there, unmoving and immovable, for 15 minutes. Then I realised it was time to face my embarrassment... and called The Boss. Despite much pulling and pushing, she couldn’t shift me... so she called upon The Girl, who is remarkably strong. She took my right arm, The Boss my left, and they coordinated their efforts and heaved me out. I was unhurt physically, but my pride and dignity took a pummeling!

Big Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenavon, Torfaen, NP4 9XP

A visit to Big Pit National Coal Museum is a must this Summer –whether you’re escaping the rain or looking for some natural air conditioning!

Take the world famous guided tour and descend 300ft underground and discover what life was like for the thousands of men who worked at the coal face.

Children must be at least one metre tall to go on the tour, sensible footwear is required and layers recommended as the temperature underground is a cool 12 degrees celsius.

On the surface enjoy a multi-media tour of a modern coal mine, exhibitions in the Pithead Baths and historic colliery buildings.

Plus, our summer series of fun family activities - ‘There’s More to Life than Work’, explore the hobbies, past-times and sports of mining communities with changing themes and creative hands-on sessions.

activities - ‘There’s More to Life than Work’, explore the hobbies, past-times and sports of mining communities with changing themes and creative hands-on sessions.

We’ll also have a VIB (Very Important BEAR) visiting us throughout the summer holidays – so pop along and have a selfie with Butty!

Our coffee shop will be open serving hot and cold drinks, cakes, sandwiches and of course ice cream. And don’t forget to pop into our new gift shop which has a lovely selection of gifts.

Open daily 9.30am-5pm. Entry to the Museum and the activities is free. Charge applies for parking and the Underground Tour. More information: https://museum.wales/bigpit/

‘And Another Thing...’ A Flying Car and a Galleon

A strange title so I had better explain. The Sainted Mother-in-Law was due to visit friends in Spain for a week, flying from Bristol Airport. The Current Mrs Nolan (aka Lorraine), as I am sometimes allowed to call her, cleverly suggested we drop Mum off and carry on down to our beloved North Devon for a week in a cottage. We got up at stupid o’clock on the day in question, but the Gods were smiling on us as the sun was in its heaven (for the week) and all was well with the world. The two minute drop off area at the airport cost £7 which was a rip-off.

However, on greater examination, we had nothing but praise for the overall service more generally provided there. In short, 27,000 passengers a day use Bristol so if 30% of them use the drop off facility that is 9,000 x £7 x say, 5 days per week, or circa £300,000 per week. Nice work if you can get it for a small strip of concrete. However, The Sainted required assisted travel which involved being met on arrival at Bristol, help with luggage, booking in, security clearance, help on the plane, the other side and on her return journey. This service was wonderful with a marvellous team of people and free of charge. So with hindsight, the £300,000 a week collected for dropping off aged parents was money well spent on these other support services. The Sainted came back in one piece and as you know, Lorraine in Spain stays mainly on the plane but She did not go this time.

Our week away was not all laughs. I had a Breakdown. No, not that sort of breakdown. Let me explain. We had returned to the aforementioned airport on time and in good fettle. We picked up the Older Person and were admiring Brunel’s Suspension Bridge spanning the Avon Gorge when the Nolan jalopy decided to stop of its own accord on a very busy road filled with overheated and irate motorists. My how we laughed. Our rescue call on a Sunday afternoon was met with tales of staff shortages etc and so we had three hours to kill by the roadside in blistering heat. Such fun. We witnessed a lady being saved from attempted suicide in the River by six police officers.

by Vince Nolan

We also saw this ship gently sailing by.

Finally our rescue guys arrived. Big-up to Pete Gilbert of Victoria Recovery who turned our vehicle into Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (or similar rhyming words) and we were safely deposited back in Wales minus our timing belt which had snapped and caused the breakdown. Eventually all was repaired by my Brother Paul and peace resumed……for now.

Please don’t think any of the above hassle overshadowed a great holiday and here’s the proof.

because she thinks I am a bit thick and keep getting my worms wrong. The latest encounter went like this:

She: “We are going away with the caravan so we took it to the repair shop for a service.”

Me: “I didn’t know The BBC Repair Shop with the thatched barn and all the antique restoration experts serviced caravans.”

residence, bless. Local beekeepers (I know,

we think is a very good product. I know…….you

She: “No, the caravan repair shop in Newport, reservoirs. The acceptable range is between out now and buy a test kit.

action song – a whole new strapline there for you I have spoken many times before about Mrs MaIaprop at our local pub who feels sorry for me

says, “This is wine!” The drunk says, “May the

In The Words Of by

Carl Marsh

August 2025

Now that most of us are in full kids off school holiday mode, I hope you’ve all got plenty to look forward to for August. I am off to France in my campervan… I cannot wait, although I am still not sure where I will be driving to, the open road calls with promises of freedom and discovery, all I know is that my return boat journeys are booked! Wherever you are, or whatever you do, I hope it’s a great and relaxing time for you all.

Interviews: Gary Numan, and…

This month, I lined up two interviews, one here for you to read, whilst the other was a big, bold ask! I got an email, I put the request in, but I was not expecting it to be realistic due to the fame of the person who’s got an event in Wales in September. Their PR returned—not a flat “No”, but seemed promising. At the time of writing this, and ahead of print, it still hasn’t happened - it may fall by the wayside. The person’s name? None other than Whoopi Goldberg. Yes, really. I’m checking my emails… daily!

Food Review: Gaucho, Cardiff

Perhaps my favourite steak restaurant in Wales, it won’t come as a surprise to anyone telling you that this is my fourth visit to Gaucho, and it won’t be my last by a long shot. I know it’s not the cheapest place to eat, and for most, it’ll be for special occasions only. Still, if you’re able to get there before 6:30 pm, Monday through to Friday, then you’ll get what’s possibly the best steak deal in the country - a 180g expertly grilled Argentine rump steak, served with golden chips, all for just £15, and delivered to your table in under 30 minutes. You can add drinks and sides such as garlic mushrooms, broccoli… but as you can pay just under £14 for fish and chips from a chip shop, it’s a no-brainer to head to Gaucho. For my review, I went for that special occasion type of steak, the Churrasco De Lomo (£63), a spiral cut fillet, marinated in garlic, parsley and olive oil. For 350g, it didn’t feel too much, or too little, it was

exquisite, and the chips it came with were too! As a side, I went for the Sautéed Spinach, which I hoped [it did] would make an excellent addition to the taste of the steak. As mentioned, you can go for that special treat or go on your lunch break if you work in Cardiff. I know where to go if and when I’m in town midweek. Food Review: Mowgli, McArthur Glen, Bridgend [but one also in Cardiff]

I went to the McArthur Glen branch for location reasons on that given day. Mowgli has a restaurant in Cardiff, but let me tell you, whether you’re dining at this outlet or their Cardiff restaurant, the menu is the same, and the experience is an absolute delight!

From the moment you step in, the warm, eclectic décor—twinkling lights and cosy, rustic vibes—sets the stage for a memorable meal. The menu is a love letter to India’s street stalls and workers with dishes like tangy chat bombs, crispy gunpowder chicken, and fragrant tiffin boxes that let you sample a bit of everything. I opted for a few offerings (and yes, I did take half of each home with me!).

I went for the Monkey Wrap (£12), which is an open roti wrap with succulent, charred tandoori chicken, jewels of pomegranate, spinach, mint and that crazy rainbow of homespun Mowgli chutneys. My second choice was Himalayan Cheese Toast (£7.75). This has a Coriander, red onion & green chilli dressing, sharp cheddar and is served with Indian pickle. Then there was the Bunny Chow (£15). It is called the Mowgli showstopper. A good sharer. South African Indian railway worker’s favourite. A fruity, hot, chicken & potato curry served inside a bread loaf. I was warned it was for two people, but I never learn!

Mowgli is a fun, feel-good spot that offers a vibrant escape into the heart of Indian street food. It is bursting with flavours that dance on your palate.

Carl Marsh

YouTube InTheWordsOf Twitter @InTheWordsOf_CM

Live Music Review: Oasis

Principality Stadium, Cardiff, July 5th 2025

First and foremost, this was the best gig I have ever been to, as once Richard Ashcroft had warmed the crowd up, not long after Cast had started the night on a high, those two acts deserve more than a few sentences alone. Still, sadly, I haven’t space to rain plaudits on them as once Noel and Liam came onto the stage, the Principality Stadium erupted into a seismic celebration of rock ‘n’ roll history as Oasis unleashed a performance that redefined epic.

This wasn’t just a gig; it was a b***y groundbreaking, soul-shaking spectacle that left me and 74,499 fans roaring in unison, creating the most electric atmosphere I’ve ever witnessed in decades of concert-going. Once ‘Hello’ opened up, the crowd was bouncing, including all the seating, where I saw everyone standing up, singing every lyric like it was a battle cry!

And this wasn’t just Oasis reborn; for me, it surpassed their ‘90s superiority with an impact and precision that felt like the lightning had bolted. Liam’s voice, raw and commanding, soared through anthems like ‘Supersonic’, ‘Cigarettes & Alcohol’, and ‘Wonderwall’. And Noel’s guitar riffs… they sliced through the closed-roof stadium.

Supported by a razor-sharp lineup including Gem Archer, Paul “Bonehead” Arthurs, and drummer Joey Waronker, Oasis sounded hungrier, sharper, and more vital than ever. Watching clips on my phone still sends shivers down my spine, especially ‘Cigarettes & Alcohol’…, a testament to being part of this historic night. The crowd’s energy was unmatched, a living, breathing testament to Oasis’s enduring legacy. If you can snag tickets, don’t hesitate. Friends of mine have been chasing this magic across the UK and even to the US for their ‘Live ‘25’ tour—I am sure they’ve remortgaged their homes or something!

This concert was perfection, a five-star, life-altering moment that no gig will ever top. Oasis didn’t just return; they conquered. [Obviously]

Live Music Review: UB40 Feat. Ali Campbell

Cardiff Castle, July 20th 2025

With many gigs at the Castle again this year, I haven’t been able to do them all, but despite all of that, I knew I had to witness UB40 Feat. Ali Campbell. I expected the atmosphere to be incredible, and it exceeded every expectation with a vibrant vibe and a crowd radiating pure joy. The friendliness in there was, for me, monumental.

Rain couldn’t dampen the spirits of the [primarily] poncho-clad audience, who danced through the drizzle with beaming smiles.

The night kicked off with support from Reggae Roast featuring Mr. Williamz, and then it was the turn of the ever-charismatic Bitty McLean, whose call of “Ready for more music?” ignited cheers as the skies partly cleared. Then, Ali Campbell took to the stage with a grin that lit up the castle grounds. Backed by what he proudly stated, “the best reggae band in the world”, he unleashed a setlist bursting with classics like ‘If It Happens Again’, ‘Sweet Cherrie’, and the crowd-pleasing ‘Kingston Town’, all it took was the first moments of each song being the trigger for a euphoric crowd singalong.

At 66, Campbell’s vocals remain crystal-clear, weaving that signature Midlands-reggae magic that’s sold over 70 million records. The castle’s historic backdrop amplified the music’s soulful resonance, creating a perfect blend of nostalgia and celebration. As I mentioned, the friendliness was monumental - strangers became friends, swaying and singing as if time stood still. The night was a testament to UB40’s enduring appeal, even long after the encore. On my walk back to the car, the sways of the crowd were still singing far away from the castle’s grounds!

Carl Marsh

Twitter - @InTheWordsOf_CM

YouTube - InTheWordsOf

Interview with Gary Numan Words by Carl Marsh

Fresh from his first-ever performance at Glastonbury, I found Gary Numan on my screenvia a Zoom link - from his hotel room in London, where he and his wife were staying before jetting back to the US. Gary always captivates, as this isn’t my first interview rodeo with him, and he never fails to impress. We veered off into so many tangents that I forgot it was an interview about his latest release, and UK tour at the end of this year! It’s never a standard interview with Gary Numan, as I’m always left buzzing, having listened to him weave personal anecdotes with reflections on his craft, long after my screen went dark.

Carl Marsh

It was great seeing you and your daughters on the stage at Glastonbury… was this always the plan since you were asked to feature them all singing with you, showcasing the Numan musical legacy?

Gary Numan

Not really. When it first happened, I hadn’t really thought that far ahead. I found out last October that the plan was to write a new album in November and then maybe showcase a few songs from it at Glastonbury, but my wife, Gemma, has been very unwell, and still is. So, it just takes your mind, and you’re not thinking creatively, as - rightly so - you’re worried about other things. The idea of doing lots of new stuff at Glastonbury fell by the wayside. And then my daughter, Raven, the eldest one, has her record deal with BMG. She’s put out six singles, but at the moment, they’re just now standing back and taking stock of where they are and what to do next with her. So, she feels like she’s drifting. She’s not overly happy with this taking stock period; she wants it all to happen now. And so, the idea of having her play one of her songs that hasn’t been released, started to come to mind. I thought that’d be a fantastic opportunity for people to see her, and then if she’s doing it, I knew I was going to be doing the ‘My Name Is Ruin’ song, and

Persia sang on that record [Gary’s 2nd daughter], so she would sing on that. So, it all just started to fall into place as the set list came together, and other ideas came to mind. But no, it wasn’t the original plan. But I’m glad it’s a fantastic thing for them. It was an amazing opportunity for me to be up there doing it. And you know, what a cool thing to do, especially with it being televised, which adds a whole other level of good opportunities to be able to go out there and have the kids come on, you know, it’s a pretty cool thing.

Carl Marsh

I am surprised the girls didn’t keep hinting behind the scenes ahead of this. Did this aid your decision?

Gary Numan

No, well, with those two… but with Echo, the youngest, she doesn’t know what she wants to do yet, so she’s still looking for things that you know, to find a passion for, really, but the other two are very much interested in making music their career. Persia has just started attending a college in Los Angeles called the LA School of Recording Arts. It’s tied to the LA Film School. It’s a new off-shoot. Raven was going to do it, and then she got the deal with BMG and decided that she was already there! [Laughs] But they’re going in that direction. We haven’t pushed them that way either. We want them to do whatever they want to do, whatever that passion is that they find that makes them happy getting up in the morning, that’s the thing. That’s what you do. And if it’s music, great, I can help with that. If it’s something else, great, but I probably can’t help because I don’t know much about anything else. Two of them are going for music at the moment, and it may be a year or two that they decide it’s not for them. They may have a little taste of what comes with that and decide it’s not for them because it’s not for everybody.

‘A Perfect Circle: Live’ is out now and was recorded at the OVO Arena in London in 2022. On November 18th, he’s performing at The Great Hall, Cardiff.

Cardiff’s silent epidemic:

the loneliness crisis we are not talking about.

◊ Loneliness is quietly rising across Cardiff, particularly affecting students, workers, parents and elderly people.

◊ Remote work, housing issues and poor infrastructure fuel the crisis.

◊ Local charities and NHS pilots offer community-based solutions.

◊ Structural change and open conversation are urgently needed.

There is a strange contradiction running through the heart of Cardiff. On the surface, the city is thriving. More cafés, more flats, more festivals. The Bay glistens. Bute Park breathes. The skyline stretches.

Yet, a growing number of Cardiff residents say they are lonely. Not just occasionally, not just mildly but often, and often painfully.

Loneliness in Cardiff is not just a problem for older people living alone. It is hitting young adults, students, remote workers, single parents and new arrivals alike.

And while the statistics are concerning, it is the

silence around the issue that is most dangerous. This is an epidemic we do not speak about enough.

The scale of the problem

In Wales, more than a third of adults say they regularly feel lonely. In Cardiff, where life moves quickly and space comes at a premium, the problem is even more acute. The rise in loneliness has been tracked by organisations across the city, from NHS services to charities like Age Cymru and Platfform. But the public conversation has yet to catch up.

Dr Alys Morgan from Cardiff University’s Centre for Wellbeing Research said, “We are seeing a steady climb in reported loneliness across all age groups. For young adults, it is often linked to social media pressure, housing instability and a lack of deep connection. For older adults, it is more about bereavement, poor transport, and isolation.”

Alone in a crowd

For students, loneliness is often hiding in plain sight. Cardiff’s student population is growing year by year, but so is the number of young people who say they feel disconnected, unsupported, or socially anxious.

Maya, a psychology student living in Cathays, described it this way: “It’s weird. You’re never really on your own, but you rarely feel properly seen or heard. People are so busy doing their own thing, there’s no time for a real friendship.”

Cardiff University recently found that more than 40 percent of students felt lonely on a weekly basis. It is not hard to see why. The housing is transient, classes are often online, and the pressure to perform can leave little space for vulnerability.

The work from home trap

For the city’s workforce, remote and hybrid working has transformed daily life. While some enjoy the flexibility, others feel cut off. In-person meetings, corridor chats and office lunches have vanished for many. And without those small social moments, entire days can pass without speaking to anyone in real life.

A recent national survey found that a third of people working from home in Wales felt more isolated than before the pandemic. In Cardiff, therapists report a sharp rise in clients citing loneliness as a key factor behind their mental health concerns.

“It creeps up on you,” said Graham, 42, a freelance designer based in Grangetown. “At first it’s great not commuting but then the silence starts to get louder. You forget how to socialise. You start to feel invisible.”

Older people, deeper silence

The elderly in Cardiff face a different kind of loneliness. Many have lost partners, friends or mobility. Some have lost confidence to go out since the pandemic. The result is a quieter crisis: one lived behind closed doors, often without anyone knowing.

Brian, 82, from Roath, played bowls twice a week. “After lockdown, it never came back,” he said. “I see my daughter now and then. But the days are long. The TV is always on, just so I hear something.”

According to Age Cymru, tens of thousands of older people in Wales feel chronically lonely. Many go days without speaking to another person. For those in poorer areas or with health issues, the barriers to connection are even higher.

The cost of disconnection

Loneliness does not just hurt emotionally. It has serious consequences for physical and mental health. Experts have compared the health impact of long-term loneliness to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. It increases the risk of heart disease, depression, anxiety and even early death.

Local mental health charity Platfform has seen a growing number of referrals where loneliness is the core issue. “It affects everything,” said one support worker. “People lose motivation. They stop caring for themselves. It can lead to crisis very quickly.”

The geography of loneliness

Where you live in Cardiff can also shape your risk of feeling lonely. Some areas are rich in community spaces, parks, cafés and social clubs. Others are not. In parts of Ely, Splott or Llanrumney, residents say there are few safe or welcoming places to meet. Even getting to the city centre can be difficult without a car or decent bus service.

A report last year by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation noted that loneliness is often highest in low-income areas, where social infrastructure is weakest. That is true in Cardiff too. The inequality of connection is becoming clearer.

What is being done

There are bright spots. Local groups like

ACE (Action in Caerau and Ely), Green Squirrel in Canton, and Benthyg Cymru are creating opportunities for people to connect. Cardiff Council has launched “Let’s Talk” hubs in libraries and leisure centres. Mindfulness groups, walking clubs and choirs are growing.

The NHS is also experimenting with “social prescribing”, where GPs refer patients not just to medication, but to gardening groups, art classes or nature walks. Early signs are promising, but the scheme remains limited by funding and awareness.

Cardiff University is expanding its student mentoring and wellbeing initiatives, while organisations like Age Cymru offer befriending services and telephone check-ins.

What still needs to change

The solutions to loneliness are not complicated, but they do require political will. We need more funding for community centres, reliable public transport, and better designed public spaces. Loneliness should be treated as a serious health issue, not a side effect of modern life.

And we need a cultural shift. Talking about loneliness should not carry shame. As Maya put it, “If more people were honest about being lonely, maybe more of us would feel less alone.”

Where to find help

If you are struggling with loneliness in Cardiff, here are some starting points:

Platfform Cardiff: Mental health and peer support

ACE Cardiff: Local events and volunteering

Cardiff Council Hubs: Free “Let’s Talk” sessions

Mindfulness Cardiff: Meditation and community connection Age Cymru: Support for older adults

It may be the case that Cardiff is growing faster than its capacity to connect. But connection is not a luxury. It is a lifeline. The antidote to loneliness is not just being around people, it is being truly seen, heard and valued. That is a task for all of us.

Should you or anyone you know be affected by

loneliness or any other mental health issues or challenges, and you would like a free, no-obligation Mental Health First Aid Consultation; to discuss how I can help you, your family or your business; to ask my advice on something or just to chat, follow this link: https://tinyurl.com/cardifftimesFREE

Or scan this QR Code with your mobile phone camera:

I will listen to whatever you want and need to say to me, and then ask some questions to clarify your situation. I will then outline some of the options for support available to you.

Some of these support choices will be with other organisations such as those above. Some of them, I can offer you in my online clinic. If you choose to work with me, I offer all Cardiff Times readers 20% off your clinical support sessions.

The initial call takes just 20-30 minutes, and you will leave with some potentially useful information and a route-map to resolving the situation so you can move forward positively.

A final message for all of us: let us look out for and look after each other.

Community = Common Unity and we have a vested interest in the mental health and wellbeing of our friends, families and neighbours.

Kindness costs nothing and, as modern neuroscience confirms, is as good for the giver as it is for the receiver!

by Gareth Strangemore-Jones

MHFA DCST PDPCP HPD DSFH DMH AHD MNCPS (Reg) MNCH (Reg) MCNHC (Reg) AfSFH (Reg) NCTJ MSC-CPA PGCE (FE) I & II Clinical Psychotherapist, Counsellor, Medical Hypnotherapist, Teacher & Mindfulness Coach Author, Journalist & Broadcaster www.alchemylifetherapy.com

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THE LONSDALE BELT by Ralph Oates

Whenever a boxer wins a British championship in any weight division he is awarded the Lonsdale Belt by the British Boxing Board of Control. This is a trophy which is much treasured by the new title holder. This achievement reflects the dedication and sustained effort he has invested over the years in pursuit of the British championship title. The said boxer will have spent many hours of training in the gym in his attempt to acquire the British crown. If successful he will be awarded with the Lonsdale belt. Boxing has many championship belts, but the Lonsdale stands out for its impressive design and rich history. It is a great moment for the respective boxer to put that belt around his waist, after gaining the title. However, it should be noted that the belt is not his to own. No, it isn’t that easy, nothing worth having in life is easy, and that includes making the belt your own property. To win the belt for keeps the champion must defend the title three times after winning it. It is a difficult task to defend against challengers who are determined to win the title and belt. The champion can only win one belt in any weight division. In previous years, it was possible for the title holder to acquire more than one belt. He needed to make two successful title defences after winning it.

Former heavyweight champion Henry Cooper is a prime example of this point. Known as Our ‘Enry to his fans, he won the Lonsdale belt outright three times for his successful domestic title defences. He even put a notch on a fourth belt. It took ten title victories for him to do so. That was an outstanding feat. Cooper was the first and likely the last fighter to do this, as the

rules have changed.

British bantamweight King Alan Rudkin was a fine fighter; he won one belt outright and put two notches on a second during his fistic career that took five title wins. Brian Curvis, who was born in Swansea, had a successful career during his time as a professional boxer. He secured two welterweight belts outright and began a third, achieving this with seven title wins. This was a record for the weight division. Another boxer who kept the Welsh flag flying when it came to winning Lonsdale belts outright was Merthyr Tydfil’s Howard Winstone; during his career he won the WBC world featherweight championship and European titles. He secured two Lonsdale belts outright for his British title defences and earned a third notch after seven championship wins.

The history of the belt is noteworthy, beginning in 1909 when it was initially introduced to the sport. It was then known as The National Sporting Clubs Challenge Belt. The belt was presented to the club by the 5th Earl of Lonsdale. This enabled the club to keep control of British title fights. The manager of the club was Arthur Frederick Bettinson who laid down the rules and regulations for winning the belt.

Freddie Welsh of Pontypridd won the first British lightweight title belt by defeating Johnny Summers in 20 rounds on 8 November 1909 at London’s National Sporting Club. Welsh boxed well to take the title from an oppo-nent who knew his way around the ring.

The first heavyweight to win the belt was Bombardier

Henry Cooper with his Lonsdale Belts courtesy of Derek Rowe.

Alan Rudkin with his Lonsdale Belts courtesy of Derek Rowe.

Billy Wells on the 24 April 1911. Wells was a polished performer who secured the belt, in style, when he knocked out opponent William ‘Iron Hague’ in the sixth stanza of twenty. The entertaining bout between two fighters gave it their all. The spectators enjoyed the fight and left satisfied. The venue for the Wells-Hague contest was of course the National Sporting Club in London. Every-thing was going well for the club and spectators were entertained with the action witnessed inside the ring. The National Sport Club’s reign ended in 1935.

The British Boxing Board of Control then took over in 1936 and continued awarding the belt to boxers winning the British title. The prize was now known as the Lonsdale Belt and was still very much sought after by boxers.

On the 6 May 2023 Lauren Price, born in Newport, displayed her boxing skills when she outpointed Kirstie Bavington over 10 rounds for the vacant British welterweight crown. The contest took place in Birmingham at the Resorts World Arena. This historical event marked the first British championship for women. Price became the first woman to win a British title and the first female winner of the Lonsdale belt. The two women fought well but Price showed her class and was always a step or two in front of her opponent. When the final bell rang to end the contest there was no doubt who the winner was.

There will clearly be other British championship bouts involving women.

Who will be the first lady boxer to win the belt outright? That is going to be another historical event when it happens.

The tradition of winning the belt will clearly continue for both men and women in the years to come.

Lonsdale Belt courtesy of Les Clark.

Brian Curvis with his Lonsdale Belts courtesy of Derek Rowe

MORE WAYS TO PLAY IN CARDIFF

Whether it’s with friends or with family, discover a world of fun for all ages this school holiday.

Book holiday activities at better.org.uk/cardiff

Experience quality dementia care, led by experts

At Care UK’s Llys Cyncoed care home in Cyncoed and Llys Herbert care home in Lisvane, our teams are passionate about supporting your loved one to maintain independence and make choices, whilst receiving the very best dementia care in a place they can call home.

Care you can trust

We work with academic partners and respected leaders in the field, to ensure we stay up to date with the latest approaches to dementia care. We have worked closely with the Association of Dementia Studies to create bespoke programmes of dementia training. Whilst Dr Nori Grahama renowned dementia expert and Vice President of Alzheimer’s Disease International – supports the development of our dementia strategy with Suzanne Mumford, a Queen’s Nurse and Head of Nursing, Care and Dementia at Care UK.

Living well with dementia

Our dedicated teams will work with you and your loved one to deliver a care and lifestyle plan entirely tailored to their unique needs and preferences and our busy activities schedule is always packed with meaningful activities that support them to live life to the full.

Recently, residents have enjoyed a mini music concert, making fruit salads and their regular Thursday tea parties.

Purpose-built facilities

At our purpose-built homes, everything from colour schemes, signage, and furniture to the design of our crockery, has been carefully chosen to support residents living with dementia to be as independent as possible.

Each floor at Llys Cyncoed and Llys Herbert are divided into smaller suites that create a calm atmosphere, keeping hustle and bustle to a minimum.

Llys Herbert also has a Namaste care room and trained Namaste care practitioners, who provide a

calming sensory experience using soothing lighting and gentle hand massage, for people living with advanced dementia.

Our Cardiff care homes are part of Care UK, the country’s most awarded large care provider. We’ve been delivering high-quality, person-centred care for over 40 years. That’s why over 9,000 families trust us to care for their older loved ones.

To find out more about Llys Cyncoed and Llys Herbert, call 0330 822 6781 or scan the QR code.

Llys Cyncoed 127 Cyncoed Road, Cyncoed, Cardiff CF23 6AF

Llys Herbert Ty-Draw Road, Lisvane, Cardiff CF14 0AW

careuk.com/cardiff

Let us help you hear clearly this summer with our scorching hot microsuction offer! It’s the quickest, safest and most comfortable way to remove a buildup of earwax and from August, for a limited time only, we’re cutting the price from £55 to just £35 for both ears. Plus, if there’s no wax then there’s no charge.

V4V festival in Whitchurch celebrated its eighth year with a

lively immersion into vintage eras by Natalie McCulloch

V4V festival returned to Whitchurch for its eighth consecutive year this July. Whether it was an opportunity for a good old-fashioned boogie woogie, an excuse for a shindig or a chance to get dressed up to the nines ‘old school’ style, V4V festival certainly had it all covered.

You can bet your bottom dollar it didn’t disappoint. From incredible acts to irresistible outfits and unmistakable toe tapping melodies, this really was an immersive experience into eras gone by.

‘Fun for all the family’ was certainly the order of the day with vintage rides, games and a tennis court. For 8-year Gwennan Rogers the highlight was the photographers Vintage Memories who transformed a family photo into a vintage newspaper article which she quotes was “an amazing way to remember the fun family weekend.”

Each stage, encased in a marquee, offered a unique sample of what life had to offer all those years ago; from big bands to intimate tribute acts, through to cabaret performances guaranteed to raise a chuckle and melodic beats to get you onto the dance floor! There was something for everyone! And if you, like me, were left feeling inspired to try and learn to dance you’re in luck because the wonderful duo, Mia and Gwynfor, who made up ‘Valley Jive’ are holding dance classes just a stone throw away in Caerphilly.

Mia from ‘Valley Jive’ told CT “We love V4V because it’s such a welcoming environment, all dance styles get together that normally wouldn’t cross, and

we learn from each other. The vintage shops are tempting and always offer such a wide range items. The dance lessons encourage others to join in and become part of the group. It’s an amazing event, Marcel and the team do an amazing job, we love them.”

Ophelia, of the ‘Satin Dolz’ told CT why they love performing at occasions such as V4V “We love performing these songs for the appreciation of the genre and its impact on musical history, it bridges generations. It’s always lovely to see people of all ages enjoying our shows, in an age of electronic music and digital performances, live big band shows with glamorous performances, live singers and showgirl dancers offer an exciting immersive experience that stands out.”

Alongside entertainment, there was an opportunity to watch vintage films on a big screen, stalls selling trilby hats to toy cars and everything you needed to kit yourself out for the event including delightful dresses, stunning shoes and a unique opportunity to have your hair and makeup styled authentically too!

People travelled from all areas of the UK for the occasion, including a lovely group of ‘Jivers’ from Pembrokeshire. They delighted in sharing some basic dance moves to help others gain confidence. This, for me, was a highlight as I was in absolute awe of the incredible dancers hopping, bopping and jiving away to every tune with both elegance and pizzazz but, as forementioned, my two left feet made my moves rather less impressive!

It’s fair to say (and to quote the iconic 1953 movie ‘Kiss me Kate’) the weather was ‘too darn hot’ for many but fortunately there were plenty of places to sit and relax and hydrate whether that be on the big red bus bar or with drunken sailors on the boat shaped bar! Plus, let’s not forget another well-loved way of cooling off – indulging in an ice cream from the delicious vegan ice cream company ‘Daisy and Belle’ with flavours such as tiramisu and lemon meringue. We were spoilt for choice! Besides ice cream, there was a wide selection of traditional and culturally diverse foods to suit all tastes.

For those seeking more than daytime activities, V4V offered camping, nightlife, and stylish transport on a vintage bus to and from the campsite.

All in all, it was a pretty amazing occasion for all! If you missed out this year fear not, V4V is an annual event, and you are all welcome to participate next year. You have a whole 12 months to dust off your dance moves (or develop some!), find the perfect outfit and prepare for a truly epic experience.

Well done Marcel and team for putting on such a superb event! Hopefully see you next year!

South Wales family-friendly day trips and holiday destinations

South Wales provides diverse family-friendly holiday options that combine natural beauty, history, and adventure, ideal for both children and adults. From scenic beaches to historic sites and immersive educational experiences, the region offers memorable activities for all ages.

The hunt for last-minute family holiday destinations is on, and choosing your location could make or break your summer. But fear not – to alleviate some of your holidayplanning stress, Cardiff Times has curated a selection of three excellent locations in South Wales sure to keep the kids busy, while offering culture and charm for the grownups too.

Just an hour and a half drive from Cardiff’s city centre is a well-known gem, renowned for its fantastic beach landscapes, and their snoozing North Atlantic Grey Seals. The Gower Peninsula’s Rhossili Bay provides visitors with fresh waters and much needed relief from this upcoming heatwave. With its panoramic views and accolades for being the best spot to have a picnic, this beach is a fantastic family holiday option that won’t break the bank. Rhossili Bay Beach has also been awarded Britain’s Best Beach by TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice, a testament to its popularity.

A top choice for families with an adventurous streak and a budget to spare is hopping on board the Gower Coast and Adventures ship. These seasoned guides are familiar with the snoozing locations of local marine life and will take you within breathtaking proximity of the North Atlantic Grey Seals basking on rocks at low tide. 2 hours on this highspeed boat will give you an adventurous and memorable glimpse into Wales’ wildlife, and its inspiring coastal landscapes.

For medieval history enthusiasts, South Wales offers an array of enchanting castles with a rich history - none more notable than Caerphilly Castle. Towering over its green landscapes and framed by sprawling water defenses, Caerphilly Castle is impressive in size - holding the title of the largest fortification in all of Wales. Famous for its scenic views and cinematic appeal, it has become a favourite amongst families and fans of the famous BBC TV series

by India Lloyd James

Merlin, which was partly filmed on site. The castle is well preserved by its dedicated staff, with many old features, still perfectly intact and accessible for viewing during visits.

If there is an appetite for the historic, The Big Pit National Coal Museum of Wales is as engaging as it is educational. Situated in Blaenavon, Torfaen, this experience will take you down 300 feet to explore an authentic decommissioned Welsh coal mine. This highly evocative and immersive tourist location will transport you through time, painted by the earthy smell of the mines, and powerful storytelling by the guides. The tour lasts approximately one hour and includes entry into the pit where miners previously carried out their work around the clock. Knowledgeable guides

detail its brutal history, describing the grueling hours, confined spaces, and the poor working conditions that were endured by both adults and children. Be ready to put on the helmet, torch, and sensible footwear - as mines were never for the fastidious or claustrophobic.

If going several hundred feet underground seems daunting, there is an impressive free museum complimentary to the mine-exploring. Visitors can explore the colliery in its authentic state, including the Pithead baths and blacksmith’s forge, preserved since its nascency in 1890. It has been described as an immersive and visually rich experience by local tourists, and a great day out for the kids. At the end of your visit, there is a pleasant cafe which serves a small selection of warm and cold drinks, as well as snacks to refuel after your visit.

It’s good to know where to turn when the world throws you a curveball. At Harding Evans, our wealth of knowledge and expertise covers all areas of the law, from conveyancing and personal injury, family law and wills & probate, clinical negligence and care, right through to commercial, employment law and dispute resolution.

It is our mission to provide clear, honest, and high-quality legal advice in an environment that is approachable, inclusive and welcoming. When you need us, you can trust our experienced solicitors to be by your side; through the good times and the bad, in both your personal and professional life.