My Local View Magazine | May 2016 by Paul Adamson

Issue 122 May 2016 Caerphilly Edition

You don’t have to go far to get further...

...study locally Getting a university qualification can help boost your career prospects and earning potential. You don’t have to travel very far either with university courses available at your local college. Studying a little closer to home could also make it easier to balance work or family commitments, so order your course guide or visit our website to find out what’s on offer near you.

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Need space in our June 2016 edition? Deadline is Tuesday 24th May 2016.

BEST Travel:

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e-mail: best.travel@btinternet.com

Spring and Summer Coach Tours & Day Trips Cornwall and Devon. £299 Friday 24th- Monday 27th June 2016 Our price includes: 3 nights’ accommodation sharing a twin/double on a breakfast and 3course evening meal basis. From our touring base we will have daily excursions to the sights and resorts of Cornwall. The modern 4-star, Holiday Inn in Plymouth is just 7 miles from the Cornish border and overlooks Plymouth Hoe. After a hard day’s sightseeing, you can relax in the hotel’s indoor swimming pool.

Luxury London Break, including afternoon tea at The Waldorf Hotel. £159 Sunday 7th- Monday 8th August 2016 Our price includes: 1 night’s accommodation at the famous 5-star Waldorf Hilton Hotel sharing a twin/double on a B & B basis, with the famous Waldorf afternoon tea on arrival. Go on treat yourself! (Elizabeth Taylor, Pavarotti, Pierce Brosnan and Dame Judi Dench have all done it before you.) You are also welcome to use the hotel’s facilities, including its swimming pool.

Day Trips In addition to our tours we have a full programme of day trips throughout the spring and summer. 12th April: Bath. (£15) 22nd May: Tenby and Cwm Deri Vineyard, including wine/liqueur tasting and afternoon tea. (£29) 13th June: Gloucester. (£18) 10th July: National Botanic Garden of Wales, Llanarthne. (£29) 26th July: Swansea and the Mumbles. (£16) 9th August: Dawlish & Teignmouth. (£25) 21st August: Weston-Super-Mare. (£18)

We use executive coaches and offer complimentary refreshments on all our tours and daytrips.

Full details of all our tours and day trips are shown in our 2016 brochure. Please contact us to request your copy.

Ring 029 2086 9902 BEST Travel: Principal Office: 4 Denbigh Court, Caerphilly CF83 2UN. Partners: Barbara & Alan Donovan

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Welcome to the May 2016 issue. Hi all,

So what have we got going on this month? Dr. Roger’s Gardening monthly column focuses on potting beans in pots and having a ready supply in time for Summer. Caerphilly & District Floral Society have provided an article about National flowering arranging Day which takes place on May 7th.

This month, the article has been provided by Martin Cook who does a fantastic job managing The Visitor Centre in town. If you are ever stuck for something to do, please pop in and see Martin & the team. You will get friendly advice about local events and you could even take the weight off your feet and enjoy some refreshments in the cafe! Our two popular recipe pages feature Thai Beef Salad and Chocolate Chip & Nut Biscotti....very nice! Here’s to a great month. All the best,

In our events guide this month we have a wide selection of regular events as well as some cool dated entries.

Regular features

If you are a regular reader you will know that we feature a column from the events team based at Caerphilly County Borough Council.

Paul

Want to feature your business or event in our next magazine? Please call Paul on 029 20880378 today!

Page 6 ,8, 14, 21, 45 & 46

Published by: Local View Advertising Limited

Recipe - Thai Beef Salad

Company Number: 5717569 Registered in England & Wales

Puzzles

Page 10

Pets Corner Page 12

Wayne David MP Page 14

Dr. Roger’s Gardening Surgery Page 16

Caerphilly Ladies Choir Page 18

What’s on locally Page 36, 40 & 41

Thought for the Month

Editor: Paul Adamson Business Address: 2 Kidwelly Court, Caerphilly, CF83 2TY Contact Details:

Tel: 02920 880378 / 07737 610177 Email: paul@mylocalview.co.uk Web: http://www.mylocalview.co.uk While every care has been taken to ensure that the data contained in this document is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Local View do not oﬃcially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system in any form without the prior permission of the publisher.

Page 44

Need space in our June 2016 edition? Deadline is Tuesday 24th May 2016.

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Days of the Week 1. Since the mid-1930s, UK General Elections have always been held on which day of the week? 2. What is the only day of the week that is an anagram of a valid English word? 3. The final round of each the four major golf championships normally takes place on which day of the week? 4. What day commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus and his Apostles?... Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday or Good Friday? 5. According to the nursery rhyme, on what day of the week did Solomon Grundy get married? 6. Which day of the week features in the titles of top ten hit singles by New Order, Duran Duran and the Bangles? 7. Which TV and film character has the middle name of Friday and a first name to suggest she might be full of woe? 8. What is the first day of the week mentioned in the lyrics of the theme song for the TV show Happy Days? 9. "Mardi Gras" is French for what?... lazy Monday, fat Tuesday or angry Wednesday? 10. Hosted by Chris Evans, when the TV show TFI Friday was first broadcast in 1996, what did Channel 4 say the letters in "TFI" stood for?

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Recipe

Thai Beef Salad Serves 4

Ready in 50 minutes, plus marinating time This colourful and fragrant main-meal salad is great for easy entertaining. Choose thick pieces of steak and take care not to overcook them or they will become tough and chewy.

Ingredients: • • • • • • • • • • •

2 x 175g sirloin steaks 1 tbsp lime juice 2 tbsp light soy sauce 1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed 1 tsp dried chilli flakes 6 spring onions, trimmed and thinly sliced 8 radishes, trimmed and thinly sliced 100g fresh bean sprouts 1/4 cucumber, thinly sliced 4 firm plum tomatoes, quartered 200g mixed salad leaves

FOR THE DRESSING • • • • •

juice of 2 limes 2 tbsp Thai fish sauce 2 tsp brown sugar 1 tbsp fresh chopped coriander 1 tsp finely chopped lemon grass

Place the steak in a shallow dish. Mix together the lime juice, soy sauce, garlic and chilli flakes. Season with freshly ground black pepper and cover and leave to marinate for 1 hour. Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle until very hot. Add the steak and cook for 4-6 minutes on each side. Remove from the pan, cover with foil and leave to rest for 15 minutes. Toss together the spring onions, radishes, bean sprouts, cucumber, tomatoes and salad leaves. Mix together all the dressing ingredients, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Slice the warm steak thinly across the grain. Toss gently into the salad with the dressing. Pile into a large shallow serving dish and serve immediately, or leave to cool and serve chilled.

TIP Lemon grass stalks are sold in small packs

by the fresh herbs in the supermarket. You only need a small amount to give an extra zesty fragrance to the dressing but the stalks will keep for 1-2 weeks in the fridge. Try adding chopped to curries, fruit salads or infuse in hot water for a refreshing alternative to tea.

Need space in our June 2016 edition? Deadline is Tuesday 24th May 2016.

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As inherently social animals they are happiest when living as part of a group, or with one other guinea pig. It’s not a good idea to buy two male guinea pigs together, however, unless they are from the same

Are there any specific health issues to consider? Eye and respiratory problems are often experienced, and are usually caused by a reaction to dusty bedding or by being in a draught. It’s important to provide them with a constant supply of dust-free hay, and toys they can chew on to prevent their front teeth from growing excessively. A diet rich in vitamin C will help to keep them healthy.

Dark green leafy vegetables are ideal, as are oranges and melons, which help to redress their natural vitamin C deficiency. Make sure they also have a constant supply of fresh water, either in a heavy bowl or a gravity-fed bottle attached to their cage. Guinea pigs need to feel secure, both inside their hutch and when they’re being handled. Always pick them up with both hands, and either sit down or hold them close to your body to keep them safe. http://www.petsathome.com/ shop/en/pets/guinea-pig-careadvice By Ann Haldon

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Wayne David MP

Christian persecution in Northern Nigeria The other week I attended an extremely moving meeting on the persecution of Christians in northern Nigeria. This was organised by Open Doors, an international network that supports and strengthens Christians who have been persecuted throughout the world. This meeting heard from a pastor from northern Nigeria. He shared harrowing stories about how members of his congregation had hidden after hearing gunfire outside their homes and their churches. In the past few years, thousands of Christians have been killed, many have been forced out of their homes and churches have been burnt down. The terrorist group Boko Haram has been largely responsible for between 9,000 and 11,500 Christian deaths since 2006 and more than a million people have been affected. Just over 2 years ago 276 girls, mainly Christians, were kidnapped from their school in Chibok by Boko Haran. These innocent girls have been killed, married off to extremist soldiers, sold as slaves and many face violence on a daily basis. The Christians of northern Nigeria just want to worship in peace and they are being denied this. Many are afraid to attend open church services and so a large number have withdrawn to worshipping in private.

In spite of this, many have said their personal faith has increased and those who have refused to be driven out have even more commitment to their beliefs and their churches. In the face of such persecution, Open Doors has urged the British Government to expand on its humanitarian aid. They also believe MPs should conduct investigations and press the Nigerian Government to implement equality and freedom of religion and speech. We live in a country where people of beliefs and faiths can co-exist peacefully. Many of our friends and family may have different views to us, but this does not change how we feel about them. In northern Nigeria social cohesion between Christians and Muslims has been affected. Mutual trust has been breaking down and feelings of suspicion and fear have risen. Separation of religions and cultures will only increase hostility in the world. It is only when people fight extremism together, that we can achieve long lasting and permanent results.

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Need space in our June 2016 edition? Deadline is Tuesday 24th May 2016.

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Dr Roger’s Gardening Surgery

My, my! It’s May. “Well, I’ll go to the foot of the stairs!” as a friend of ours used to say; we’re half way through spring already, and if you haven’t got started in your garden, anytime in the next ten minutes would be fine! May is a key month in your garden, it is still early enough to get started, but the plants are growing so fast now we need to cooperate with nature and ‘spring into action’. Bedding plants for tubs, borders and hanging baskets will be available everywhere – please please please remember to invest in some decent compost and slow release fertilizer – even if that means that you spend less on plants, I would rather see 10 thriving plants than 30 struggling to survive! Vegetables - if you want to grow some runner beans you could sow the seeds now, in little pots or trays and be planting them out at the end of the month and then by the early summer you could be picking platefuls of the little beauties just like ‘grandad used to’. You don’t need an allotment to grow runner beans, you can grow them on a ‘wigwam’ of sticks in a sunny corner of the garden – but again put loads of compost / slow release fertilizer in the ground before you plant then out.

Finally – can I encourage you to support your local independent nurseries and garden centres this year, we have several very good ones locally, owned and run by local people with a passion for their plants and their customers gardens. So please go along, armed with your questions as well as your shopping trolleys, they want you to succeed in your garden. I know part of reason I got involved with gardening (50 years ago!!!) was that brilliant sense of achievement when you see plants grow and put on a show for you, if you haven’t enjoyed the taste of success in your garden for a while, this could be your year! Roger Crookes - Tel: 02920 864730 For more info – contact me at: apairofcrookes@lcsuk.net www.youtube.com/user/rogthegardener1

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Need space in our June 2016 edition? Deadline is Tuesday 24th May 2016.

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Abigail’s Day Nursery visit

Children from Abigail’s Day Nursery recently made one of their popular visits to see the the residents at Abbeyfield Sheltered Housing. We took a group of children from Abigail’s Day Nursery recently to visit some residents of Abbeyfield Sheltered Housing on St Martins Road. The children carried baskets to deliver Easter eggs to the residents. They enjoyed spending time with everyone and enjoying a drink and biscuits, as well as entertaining them with their songs. Everyone there enjoyed our visit and loved chatting to the children and seeing them play. We would like to thank Abbeyfield for the lovely chocolate eggs they gave the children and for always making us feel so welcome. Abigail Harris

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Caerphilly Miners Centre

The community is breathing life into The Miners, with offers to run classes and workshops as volunteers or paid tutors. A programme for the next few weeks is available on our website – details on the Facebook page attached to the website. Copies also from our Café a-Roma – open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday mornings from 9.30 am. In brief: •Elderberries Social afternoons to be held on Tuesday 10th and 24th May 1.30 pm – 3.30 pm. •IT courses Mondays at 10am -12noon and 12.30 pm – 2.30pm; Wednesday 4.30 – 6.30 (Welsh medium); Wednesday morning class for absolute beginners is planned. •Yoga Wednesdays 11.30 – 12.30; 6.30 – 7.30; Thursdays 6.00 – 7.00 (Welsh medium) and 7.30 – 8.30. Cost £4. •Jewellery Making, Art, Welsh for Beginners are continuing. •Art classes – May 3rd & May 17th 1.00 pm – 3.00 pm cost £5 per class. •Cinema Club to start on May 3rd 1.30 pm •Gardening Club will meet again in May.

Rikki Pullen is recruiting for Side by Side choir, to rehearse on Tuesday evenings. We’re looking for volunteers and participants for a Parent Toddler Group on Thursday mornings (9.30 am – 11am) and for an Arts Workshop on Monday afternoons (1.00 pm 3.00pm) for 6 weeks from mid-May. Also volunteers wanted for varied activities to support the project. Thanks to our volunteers and all our community for their ongoing support! Further details - caerphillyminerscentre.org.uk and Facebook, Also contact us for our latest quarterly report: secretary@caerphillyminerscentre.org.uk or 029 2088 6569.

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Hobbies

Hobbies The Alluring Art Of Decoupage By Kate McLelland

These days decoupage is becoming increasingly popular as a means to upcycle old pieces of furniture or household items such as lamps, boxes, pots, trays and picture frames. It can be used to transform just about any item in the home and the artwork can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be. Just cut out pictures that you like, glue them to the item of your choice and cover the finished piece with thin layers of varnish to seal it. Craft shops sell a wide range of supplies for decoupage but the good thing about this hobby is that you don’t necessarily need to spend large amounts of money to get started: in fact you probably have most of the things you need lying around at home. You’ll need basic tools such as scissors (a sharp pair with clean edges), a craft knife, a soft sponge or cloth to wipe away excess adhesive, cotton wool buds for removing small spots of glue and fine sandpaper for sanding layers of varnish (if required). You can use different types of adhesive but the most effective is specialist decoupage glue – available from hobby shops – which can be used both

as a glue and as a varnish. PVA or spray glue are good alternatives, as both dry to a clear finish. Always use a gloss varnish to build up layers, as it doesn’t go cloudy, no matter how many coats you apply. If you want a matt finish, undercoat with gloss varnish and then apply a final coat of matt varnish. There are virtually no limits when it comes to sourcing pictures for decoupage work. You can pick up books in charity shops, raid old magazines for images, use wallpaper, greetings cards, paper napkins or even pieces of fabric. Wrapping paper is an ideal thickness and is available in traditional and modern designs. You can also use specialist decoupage papers or origami paper. Here are some guidelines to help you get started on a project: 1. Prepare your surface: the varnish will magnify any imperfections so it’s important to keep your object as clean and dust-free as possible. 2. Select your pictures and arrange them: cut out roughly with scissors first then experiment with

different arrangements. It helps to take photos as you go so you can remember the different layouts you’ve tried. When you are completely happy with the images and arrangement, cut the pictures out carefully with a craft knife. 3. Glue the pictures into position: quickly smooth out any wrinkles and remove any excess glue with a barely damp sponge. 4. Varnish your artwork: make sure the glue is completely dry before starting work and leave the varnish to dry thoroughly between each coat. You may need to apply anything from 4 to up to 15 coats, depending on how thick the paper is and how smooth and durable you want the finish to be. If you’re still a little nervous about starting your own project, you’ll find plenty of “How to” videos on YouTube that demonstrate the process from beginning to end. It won’t be long until you have mastered the basic techniques. The only downside is that decoupage is so simple and effective, you may be tempted to transform every object in your house!

Need space in our June 2016 edition? Deadline is Tuesday 24th May 2016.

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Booking a Home Energy Audit will show you where you are wasting money on your energy bills. For every ÂŁ100 you spend on heating, you lose up to ÂŁ45 through your walls walls. Our assessors will perform a Home Energy Audit for you in order to produce an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Energy efficient homes obtain an A Rating, but are you an E, F, or even a G?..

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Llanbradach Bowling Club’s private Function room is available all year for private hire for just £40.00*

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Our facilities include free parking, well stocked bar, CD sound system, large flat screen TV, Sky TV, small dance floor & disco lighting. NEW - Use of our 90 inch screen and projector. We can also provide a catering service.

Come and see our facilities at our open day Sunday 15th May - 11 to 4pm We are looking for new members so come and see our fantastic facilities and enjoy yourself as part of our Open day. Bowling is free on the day and we are are looking for Bowlers of all ages both young and old!

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Baking

Cake and Bake Chocolate Chip and Nut Biscotti These crisp Italian biscuits are baked twice to give them that extra crunch. Serve them with strong coffee or a sweet dessert wine for dipping.

Ingredients:

1. Preheat the oven to 180C, 350F, Gas 4. Line a

• 50g butter, softened

2. Put the butter and sugar in a bowl and beat

• 100g caster sugar • 1 medium egg, beaten • 2 tsp orange zest • 175g plain flour, plus extra for shaping • 1/2 tsp baking powder

large baking sheet with baking parchment.

• 40g blanched hazelnuts, roughly chopped • 40g dark chocolate chips

Makes approx 20 biscuits Ready in 50 minutes

TIP

For a flavour variation, replace the nuts and chocolate chips with sweetened dried cranberries and mixed peel.

together with a wooden spoon until very pale and fluffy. Gradually beat in the egg and orange zest. Sift over the flour and baking powder and add the hazelnuts and chocolate chips. Knead on a lightly floured surface to a soft dough, adding a little more flour if the dough seems sticky. Divide the dough into two pieces and using lightly floured hands shape each to a 18cm x 8cm log. Place on the baking sheet, well spaced apart, and flatten each one slightly with the palm of your hands. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until firm and light golden. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and leave to cool for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer the two logs to a chopping board. Use a serrated knife to cut each log on the diagonal into 9-10 slices. Return all the slices, cut-side down, to the baking sheet and bake for a further 10-15 minutes until crisp and golden brown. Transfer the biscotti to a cooling rack and leave to cool completely. They will keep in an airtight container for 2-3 weeks.

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Health

By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk

Alzheimer’s: How Can We Fight Back?

Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia in the UK, affecting over 500,000 people - and public awareness is higher than ever, thanks partly to Terry Pratchett’s well-publicised diagnosis and death. But as we welcome Dementia Awareness Week (May 15th-21st), are we any closer to understanding Alzheimer’s causes - and preventing or curing it? What Causes Alzheimer’s? In Alzheimer’s patients, betaamyloid protein builds up to form ‘plaques’ or ‘tangles’ in the brain, preventing nerve cell connections and eventually causing loss of brain tissue. There is also a neurotransmitter shortage. These problems produce dementia symptoms such as memory loss, behaviour changes and a decreased ability to process information and stimuli, which increase in number and severity over time. Can We Prevent Alzheimer’s? Some risk factors for Alzheimer’s are unavoidable. Alzheimer’s is more common if: • You’re over 65 (occurrence rapidly increases over 85). • There is a family history of Alzheimer’s or you carry the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene or MTHFD1L gene.

Other genes are specifically responsible for rare, earlyonset Alzheimer’s (although this is not solely hereditary). • You have Down’s syndrome, which can cause amyloid plaque build-up in the brain. • You’re a woman – even accounting for your longer lifespan, although it’s not clear why. Avoidable risk factors: • Excessive alcohol intake. • Heart disease risk factors such as smoking (including passive smoking), lack of exercise, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels and being overweight. • A lack of mental activity - so keep your mind active by reading, playing strategic games (e.g. chess) or completing word puzzles. Diabetes, depression and head injury also increase the risk of Alzheimer’s. While not necessarily ‘avoidable’, you can lower your chance of developing depression and diabetes through lifestyle choices, seek treatment for depression, and wear a helmet when biking or engaging in hazardous pursuits to reduce risk of head injury. Although more research is required, recent studies suggest risk can also be reduced by: • Sleeping on your side rather than your back or stomach, allowing the brain to remove waste products more efficiently. • Getting enough sleep. • Reducing your stress. • Staying sociable and avoiding loneliness. • Following the MIND diet: plenty of vegetables (in particular, green leafy ones), along with nuts, berries,

beans, whole grains, fish, poultry, olive oil and wine (in moderation), and limiting intake of red meats, butter, hard margarine, cheese, pastries, sweets, and fried or fast foods. Can We Cure Alzheimer’s? Not yet. However, there are treatments to alleviate symptoms. Cognitive Stimulation: enjoyable activities that stimulate thinking and encourage engagement. CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy): to help sufferers discuss concerns and adopt more positive ways of thinking. Alternative Therapies such as aromatherapy, massage or music therapy. Drug treatments: cholinesterase inhibitors such as Donepezil (Aricept), Galantamine (Reminyl) and Rivastigmine (Exelon) increase levels of the neurotransmitter acetycholine, They can sometimes improve brain function in sufferers with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s. For severe Alzheimer’s (or moderate Alzheimer’s, unresponsive to cholinesterase inhibitors), Memantine (Ebixa or Axura) may slow the decline in brain function. Medicines to reduce depression, agitation, anxiety and aggression may also be given. Hope for the Future Researchers are working on Alzheimer’s prevention, identification of further genetic markers and potential treatments such as ultrasound waves and drugs already used for diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

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Caerphilly

Conservative Club Caerphilly Conservatives Club, in the heart of Caerphilly offers a wide range of facilities and a busy social calendar. We Offer • Function Rooms • Live Entertainment • Sky Sports • Skittle Alley • Snooker • Pool • Darts • Juke Box Main Bar • Bingo Thursday & Sunday Evening And Much More

New Members are most welcome. Contact us for details.

Caerphilly Conservative Club • 43/45 Bartlett Street Caerphilly CF83 1EF

02920883150

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We oﬀer Dance Classes for pre-school children to adults, from beginner to championship level throughout Caerphilly County Borough & Bassaleg.

Successes at Dance Unity! One word “WOW”! In just 10 months Dance Unity have gone from strength to strength. Classes have doubled in size and the achievements are reflecting how hard how the children are working.

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We have teams to suit all ages.

Find us at: Dance Unity Studio, 4B Swanbridge Court, Caerphilly, CF83 8FW Call for more info:

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We will be holding open Latin Formation Team auditions on Wednesday 18th May, for both juvenile and Juniors. If you wish to trial for one of our formation teams, don’t hesitate to contact us.

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Rainbow Rosettes Reception, Year 1 & Year 2 At the Studio: Weds: 4.15pm - 5.00pm Saturday: 10.15 - 11.00am Ysgol y Gwyndy, Pontygwindy Road* Weds: 5.45 - 6.30pm * Formally St. Ilan’s School

To see our full studio & community based timetable please visit our website at:

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Freestyle Disco • Street and lots more

Home & Interiors Spruce Up Your Home Office

Dodgy desk, awkward chair or overflowing shelves? It’s time to give your home office a facelift, says Katherine Sorrell Whether your working space is a corner of the kitchen used for catching up with email, or a high-spec office with everything necessary for fulltime self-employment, it needs to work for you. A few small improvements can make your workspace more comfortable, functional and attractive.

could consider adding a small worktop to one side of your existing desk, or improve your organisation with a new desk that incorporates drawers, cubby holes, shelves or whatever other type of storage you need. If you can, use nearby walls to lift as much as possible off the surface of your desk by introducing wall-mounted storage such as shelves, pin boards, peg boards or hanging racks. Anything that stacks is useful, too. Before you know it, you’ll be able to see your laptop again.

Start with a clear out and a tidy up: go through your old paperwork, stationery, books etc. and give it away, recycle it, file it well out of the way or bin it, as appropriate, and you’re bound to create extra space. Then, sort out messy cabling with extension leads, cable clips or by adding an extra double plug socket.

A lack of storage probably goes for home offices more than any other space in the house. You may be happy with buying a conventional filing cabinet and/or bookcase, but don’t be afraid to look beyond the usual office suppliers: vintage and industrial pieces can add an element of unexpected style to brighten up your work time. Add boxes, baskets, trolleys, racks and desktop accessories in colours and textures that suit your space and personal style.

Next: your desk. If you are still running out of room, you

If boring looks are the problem, then why not give everything

By Katherine Sorrell

a facelift with the paintbrush? Neutrals are undeniably good for concentration, but go for bold colours if they make you happy. Blackboard paint comes in a range of colours and is a great option for sections of walls, desk tops or cupboard fronts where you might want to chalk up some notes. And, how about adding pretty curtains or blinds, an eye-catching rug, a display of collectibles or a dramatic painting or framed photograph? A comfortable chair is a must and an adjustable office chair on castors is best. If yours is dull or ugly, either re-upholster it, make a loose cover or, at worst, hang a length of fabric over the back and add an attractive cushion. Another essential is a good desk light – choose one that is bright, adjustable and that you love the look of. There’s an enormous choice, at prices to suit every budget. For the final details, add accessories to brighten up your life, from a good-looking waste bin to a house plant, some colourful wall art or a scented candle. Let’s face it, the more you enjoy being at work, the more productive you’ll be. Image - A good desk is essential. The new Phineas desk is made from oak and has two cubby holes, drawers, and a cut-out for cables. It costs £545 from Loaf, tel 0845 468 0698; www.loaf.com

Need space in our June 2016 edition? Deadline is Tuesday 24th May 2016.

35 advertorial

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highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 5 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. Locally Cloudy2Clear service Ty Isaf, Edwas, Machen, Pontypandy & Caerphilly Town Center

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A selection of Regular Events

Bedwas Bridge Club, Bedwas & Trethomas Community Hall, The Bryn Field, Newport Road, Bedwas, CF83 8BJ. Every Thursday 7.00pm until 9.30 pm There’s a warm welcome to all, £2 per night, or £15.00 per term. The venue is 150 yards behind the Bedwas Working Mens Institute club, at the end of the lane. Come with or without a Bridge partner. Tuition can be given to beginners if required. Contact Lynda on 02920 868137 or John 01633 440373 Caerphilly Youth Singers. VanGuard Centre, Caerphilly Date: Fridays in term time Time: 5.30 to 7.00 p.m. Award winning choir for young people. For young people in school years 6 to 9. No audition. www.caerphillycommunitychorus. org.uk Caerphilly Community Chorus VanGuard Centre, Caerphilly Date: Fridays Time: 7.30 to 9.00p.m. Award winning mixed choir for ages 15+ www.caerphillycommunitychorus. org.uk No audition. Twitter: @ CaerCChorus Van over 50’s Club Cole Court, Mornington Meadows We meet every Wednesday between 12.30 - 4.30pm. Bingo and other prize games as well as Tea, Coffee and Biscuits. We also arrange outside Daytrips. Direct bus from Caerphilly Bus Station. Come along and meet us and receive a warm welcome. Contact Jean Cook, Treasurer on 01633 440238 Bedwas & Trethomas over 50’s Wednesday Club Bedwas & Trethomas Community Hall - Entrance rear of Workmens Hall every Wednesday Time: 1pm to 4pm Bingo Tea/Coffee/Biscuits Day Trips arranged - Come along and have a look. A warm welcome to those that do. You can contact our Secretary, Mrs M. Morris on 029 20862663

Caerphilly Male Voice Choir Bedwas Methodist Church on Mondays and Thursdays at 7.15 pm We are always on the lookout for new choristers. Enthusiasm and a willingness to learn are more important than experience. Come along and listen in the first instance and see if it for you. Contact David Johnson on 029 20864289 or mob 07714 960419 or email davidjohnson513@btinternet.com St Catherine’s Church Wednesday Drop In St Catherine’s Church Hall, Maesy-Felin, off Mill Road, Caerphilly, CF83 3NH Date: Last Wednesday of the month. Time: 1.30pm-4pm Come to Cup’n’Chat every Wednesday afternoon at St Catherine’s Church Hall for a cup of tea and friendly conversation. All welcome. Contact Helen Murphy on 029 2086 3221 Caerphilly Ramblers Meet at Asda, Caerphilly Date: Sundays Time: 9.30a.m. We extend a warm welcome to all who would like to join us for walks of 8 – 12 miles throughout the South Wales Area. Meet in Asda car park, near the recycling bins. For more information go to: http://caerphillyramblers.btck.co.uk or contact John Newton 01633 440999 Caerphilly Retired Teachers Association Mount Carmel Church Vestry, Pontygwindy Road.CF83 3AD Date: Last Wednesday in the month. Time: 2 pm - 3.30 pm. We extend a very warm welcome to any retired teacher to come along and join us. Our get-together includes guest speakers,refreshments,meals out and day trips. Very informal. More information from the Secretary on 02920 883722

Caerphilly Ladies Choir New Hall Ysgol y Castell, Crescent Road Caerphilly. Date : Every Tuesday in Term time. Time : 7.15 pm. to 9.15 pm. We welcome any female 16 or older to come along and sing with us.You do not have to read music. We have a broad repertoire and we give approx. 15 concerts a year. More information from the choir Publicity Officer on 029 2088 3722 www.caerphillyladieschoir.co.uk Facebook: caerphillyladieschoir Caerphilly OAP St Martins ward meet every Tuesday at 2pm for two hours at Neuadd Park Hall, Park Lane, Caerphilly, For events, bingo, trips etc. For further information please call Haydn Lewis 01443 820187 Mount Carmel Coffee Mornings Mount Carmel Church Vestry, Pontygwindy Road. Date : Every Wednesday morning Time : 11.15 am. to 12.30 pm. Come along and meet new friends. Have a cup of tea or coffee and toast and a chat. Ring Richard on 029 2088 3790. Breakaway Club Trethomas Working Mans Club Date: Every Monday Time: 1.30pm - 4.30pm Come and join us at The Ruperra for Bingo, Tea & Coffee and pleasant company. The venue is about 70 yards from the Navigation Street Bus Stop. Contact Brian on 07932 915960 Dove coffee shop Emmanuel Church, Forge Road Machen Date: every Monday and Wednesday Time: 9am until 2pm Come along and meet new friends. and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. or bring a friend along and have some time together over a cup of tea or coffee. for more information ring Yvonne on 07798 538957

More events on page 40

Need space in our June 2016 edition? Deadline is Tuesday 24th May 2016.

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Caerphilly & District Floral Society

Did you know that Friday 6th May, 2016 is National Flower Arranging Day? On this day, members of NAFAS all over the country, will be involved with arranging flowers which will be on display in public buildings.This is to raise awareness of the organisation and to advertise local flower arranging Clubs. Your local Club in Caerphilly will take part in this event by displaying a flower arrangement, done by our Chairlady, Angela ,in Caerphilly Library together with information about the Club. Do pop in and have a look and perhaps think about becoming a member, even a casual one, of our Club. We hold two classes which meet on 1st Tuesday 7-9 pm and 1st Wednesday 2-4 pm of each month in the Twyn Community Centre (Main Hall). Why not call in to the meeting and have a look or a chat and see if it is for you.

NAFAS (National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies) also is involved in major events. To mark the 90th birthday of Her Majesty, The Queen, members will be creating floral designs to be displayed outside Westminster Abbey, North Door and inside the Cloisters, from 10th –12th June, 2016. The displays will highlight and celebrate in flowers some of the many events that have taken place over the last 9 decades, from the Roaring Twenty’s, through the Second World War, right up to the present day. Initiatives such as these provide a great opportunity to share our national passion for flowers. Next month I will tell you about the up and coming Caerphilly Flower Festival. Dianne Bishop Secretary & Publicity Officer, Caerphilly & District Floral Society

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Childrens Page

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Even more Events

Hobbies and Craft Club St Andrew’s Church, Troed-Y-Bryn, Penyrheol Date: Wednesday’s Time: 2-4pm It is a small but growing, friendly group who meet to share crafts and hobbies. Contact details are as follows: Angela Anderson Tel: 02920 864 596 or Diana Jones Tel: 02920 880585 Suter Craft & Cuppa Club. Twyn Community Centre, Caerphilly Every Wednesday, 9.30am 11.30am Everyone welcome. £2 entry to help go towards refreshments and room hire. A chance to bring & do your own crafting over a cuppa and a chat. Invite old friends to join you or come and make new friends. Got no crafts you do at present? For more information, please contact stacey via stacey.suter@ gmail.com or 07969 734999. St. Catherine’s Food Co-op Date: Every Wednesday Time: 11am - 1pm Why not pop along to the St. Catherine’s Food Co-op in St. Catherine’s Church Hall, just off Mill Road, Caerphilly? Open to the public to come along and order affordable, fresh and local fruit, veg and salad; priced at £3 a bag; bread and eggs also available to order. Enjoy a cuppa, chat and even a bit of lunch. ‘Healthy Start’ vouchers also accepted! Orders need to be placed a week in advance for collection the following week. Goldies Cymru sing along sessions. The Van-guard Centre (Charity Registration 1109193) The United Reformed Church, Van Road Caerphilly. Date: Second Monday of the month Time: 10.30-11.30 a.m. If you enjoy singing, especially the songs of the 1960’ and 1970’s, then come along to ‘Goldies’. The sessions are provided by the Goldies Cymru Charity which provides the sessions and leaders for each

group. There is a wide selection of well- known songs available to choose from; tea and coffee served on arrival; a donation of £1.00 per person is suggested. So come along and meet new people and enjoy a sing along. For further information contact: the VAN-guard Centre Secretary on 029 20 866 578. B.T.M. Camera Club Pensioners Hall, Bedwas Date: Tuesday’s Time: 7pm. Experience not necessary, newbies to experts. Call Dave on 029 20882273 for more information. The Old Library events The Old Library Community Coffee Shop Morgan Jones Park Baby Play Every Tuesday 10-11 am A group for new mums to meet and chat whilst entertaining the little ones with a range of sensory toys Kids Krafts every Thurs pm 1-4.30pm We supply the everything you need to get creative and clean up afterwards, suggested donation £1.50 Bore Coffi every Wed 11-12pm A chance to meet and chat and practice with other welsh speakers/ learners. All abilities welcome!! And a lot more!! For all our groups and events please check Face Book/ Twitter, or visit: www.Theoldlibrarycaerphilly.co.uk or call 02920 885 243 Windsor Road Presbyterian Church Windsor Street, Caerphilly Date: Every Friday Time: 10-12.30 Coffee mornings All are very welcome Aber Valley Male Voice Choir Ex-Sevicemen’s Club, Gwern Avenue, Senghenydd Sundays: 11 – 1p.m. Wednesdays: 7.15 – 9.30 p.m. Although the choir has more than 50 members we are always on the lookout for anybody interested in singing, travelling and enjoying a

full social life with a group of very friendly men. You do not have an audition; neither do you have to be able to read music. Contact the Secretary: Trevor Davies on 02920864246 / trevordavies1@sky.com or Conductor: Geraint Evans 02920884060 / jgevansuk@yahoo.co.uk Caerphilly Gardening Club Venue: Twyn Community Centre Date: Second Monday of every month Time: 7 - 9 p.m. Join in our friendly, informal meetings, talks on all aspects of gardening by guest speakers, social evenings and events throughout the year. For more information contact our secretary on 029 2088 4909 Cascade Keyboard Group Venue: Cascade Methodist Church Date Wednesday morning Time 10.00 am - midday We are a small group of keyboard players of mixed ability who meet together to play different styles of music both individually and together under the direction and support of music graduate - Gareth Kibble MSc. We would welcome anyone who is interested - beginners, experienced and lapsed players. There is a weekly charge to cover costs only. For more information please contact John on 01495 227049 Trecenydd Community Centre Venue: Trecenydd Community Centre We also have a Youth Club every Wednesday evening and Bingo every Sunday evening. Call our Secretary for details on 07974 691808 Machine Knitting Club Are you interested in Machine Knitting or would you like to learn? We now meet every Monday! Please ring Val on 029 20867942 for venue details.

Need space in our June 2016 edition? Deadline is Tuesday 24th May 2016.

41 Caerphilly Women’s Institute St Helen’s Community Hall (off Nantgarw Road) Date: 2nd and 4th Wed of the month Time: 7.30 p.m. A full and varied programme has been arranged for 2016. We enjoy a good social life !. A warm welcome is assured to women of all ages. Contact Pam Jones Tel 02920 860189 A forum for local writers of prose and poetry who want to share their work Bedwas & Trethomas Community Hall. Dates: Alternate Tuesdays Time: 1:15pm to 3:15pm. If you are interested in joining us please contact: Janet Davies, secretary janet_davies16@hotmail.com Caerphilly & District Floral Society Twyn Comm. Centre, Caerphilly Date & time : 1st Tuesday 7-9 pm and 1st Wednesday 2-4 pm of each month (Sept-Dec & Feb-June) We extend a warm welcome to anyone who wishes to learn how to arrange flowers in a ‘’hands – on way ‘’. Demonstration and help is given by a qualified teacher in flower arranging. For more information call 02920 866018 Over 50’s Ladies Circle Venue: Windsor Road Church Caerphilly Date: Wednesdays Time: 7.30-9 pm Speakers and other events. All welcome BTM Brass Band Society Venue: 29 Newport Road, Bedwas CF83 8AA High quality tuition in brass and percussion for all ages and abilities. BTM Learners - rehearses Thursday evenings, 6.00-7.30pm. For learners and beginners of all ages. BTM Next Generation - rehearses Tuesdays, 6.30-8.00pm and Saturdays 10-12 noon. The youth section of the BTM Society for

players with some experience BTM Band - rehearses Thursdays and Sundays 8.00 -10.00. One of the country’s most successful brass bands which reached Championship status in the mid-80s. Also incorporates BTM That’s Brass ensemble. Contact Carolyn Jones, BTM Society Secretary 07963 393454 or email btmbandsecretary@gmail.com St Cenydd Road Presbyterian Church St Cenydd Road, Trecenydd Coffee Morning Every Weds morning 10 -12pm Contact Mrs Jenny Thomas 029 20887173 Baby & Toddler Group Friday mornings - term time 10-12pm. Contact Mrs Nicola Roylance on 07791 879402 Aber Valley Women’s Institute Abertridwr (Nazareth) Community Centre, Thomas Street, Abertridwr Date: 1st Thursday of the month - 7.30pm We’re a lively and friendly group of all ages with something for everyone. For more details see our website www.abervalleywi.org.uk or contact Penny Fiddes on 029 2083 0517

May 2016 Concert: Piano Recital The Van-guard Centre (Charity Registration 1109193) Venue: The United Reformed Church, Van Road Caerphilly. Date: Wednesday 11th May 2016 Time: 1.00 p.m. Sarah Hodges and Neil Watson give a piano recital in aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association. There is a £5 charge for the concert. For further information Tel: 029 20 866 578

Dementia Awareness Week event Venue: St. Barrwgs Church, Church Street Bedwas. Date: Monday 16th May 2016 There will be 3 workshops throughout the day, 10:00am, 14:00pm and 18:00pm. The workshops (tun by Caerphilly Funeral Services and ITaSK CIC) will include a Question and Answer session covering a checklist for carers of people with Dementia. Refreshments will be on hand for those who attend. Everyone is welcome so come along and find out what services and support are on offer. Afternoon Tea in aid of Save the Children Venue: Twyn Community Centre Date:18th May Time: 2 till 4 pm Twyn Community Centre Tickets £3.50 Contact Ann Jackson 029 20864979 Concert: Performance by ‘The Patrick Sheen Singers’ The Van-guard Centre (Charity Registration 1109193) Venue: The United Reformed Church, Van Road Caerphilly. Day: Saturday 21st May 2016 Time: 7.00 p.m. This ladies choir, based in Ebbw Vale, last performed at the VANguard Centre last July. We welcome the ladies back to the centre for what is guaranteed to be a very entertaining musical event. The concert is in aid of Goldies Cymru which encourages people to come together and enjoy singing for pleasure. Tickets are £5 or pay at the door. For further information Tel: 02920 866 578.

details Please confirm ser ni ga with the or g in nd before atte t an even

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Caerphilly Events Update

Last month saw our events schedule kick off to a great start with the Bargoed Spring Fair, providing food & craft stalls along with entertainment for all the family right in the heart of Bargoed town centre. Next up on our events schedule is the annual Caerphilly Food Festival that takes place on Saturday 7th May 10am-5pm. Delicious smells and sizzling sounds will fill the streets of Caerphilly Town, with street theatre and children’s entertainment, offering something for everyone. Why not pop into the Visitor Centre to sample a taste of the world famous Caerphilly Cheese? Or just take time out to enjoy a tea or coffee overlooking the majestic Caerphilly Castle. For those of you looking to burn off those calories after the Caerphilly Food Festival, why not give the Caerphilly 10K a go? The run is open to runners over the age of 15, with a 2k race for younger runners aged 8 - 15. Martin Cook - The Visitor Centre, Caerphilly

Now in its 20th year, the Big Cheese Festival rolls back into Caerphilly on Friday 29th July until Sunday 31st July. The weekend starts with the Great Cheese Race, traditional funfair and amazing firework display lighting up the skies over Caerphilly Castle on Friday, with Saturday and Sunday offering food and craft stalls, entertainment, music & dance and lots more activities for the whole family to enjoy. Entry fees are £18.50 and concessions at £16.50 for the 10k run and £6.50 to take part in the 2k run. You can sign up now at www.caerphilly.gov.uk/10k, the run takes place at 10am on Sunday 19th June. The weekend of 2nd & 3rd July will see Blackwood High Street transformed into an urban beach for the annual Blackwood Beach Party. We have jam-packed weekend full of entertainment. Along with an urban beach, this free event includes, promenade style fun photo booth, children’s favourite TV costumed characters, food and craft stalls and funfair rides. The weekend culminates with Blackwood Carnival on Sunday 3rd July. For further information visit www.caerphilly.gov.uk/ events or pick up one of our ‘What’s On Guides’ at any of our libraries across the county borough of Caerphilly or from the Visitor Centre in Caerphilly town, along with various shops, cafes and other local outlets.

A well as an exciting schedule of events, why not have a look at the great selection of attractions and hidden gems that the county borough of Caerphilly has to offer? Visit www.visitcaerphilly.com for some inspirational ideas for days out and things to do. That’s all from me!

Martin Cook The Visitor Centre - Caerphilly

www.facebook.com/visitcaerphilly

Need space in our June 2016 edition? Deadline is Tuesday 24th May 2016.

Saturday 7th May 2016

Dydd Sadwrn 7fed Mai 2016

Caerphilly, South Wales - 10 miles north of Cardiff

10am - 5pm

Caerffili, De Cymru - 10 milltir i’r gogledd o Gaerdydd

Delicious smells and sizzling sounds fill the streets of Caerphilly Town, with street theatre & children’s entertainment offering fun for all the family! Bydd aroglau blasus a synau sïo yn llenwi strydoedd Tref Caerffili, gyda theatr stryd ac adloniant i blant yn cynnig hwyl i’r holl deulu!

Food Themed Activities / Gweithgareddau â Thema Bwyd Children’s Activities / Gweithgareddau i Blant Food Stalls / Stondinau Bwyd Craft Fair / Ffair Grefft

12808

Visit: your.caerphilly.gov.uk/foodfestival

Email: events@caerphilly.gov.uk

Ewch i: your.caerffili.gov.uk/gwylfwyd Ebost: digwyddiadau@caerffili.gov.uk

Call / Ffoniwch: 029 2088 0011

visitcaerphilly

CYNGOR TREF CAERFFILI

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Thought for the Month

What a day to be alive. There is a range of refreshing songs and worship styles developing in many churches these days; expressing some real of the energy, emotions and challenges of modern life with God in view. There is a range of refreshing songs and worship styles developing in many churches these days; expressing some real of the energy, emotions and challenges of modern life with God in view. One of these new songs that our Church has taken a ‘liking-to’ is called ‘What a day to be alive’ – it is a really positive recognition of the sense of how important the days in which we live are … With all that is going on around the world, around Europe and around South Wales: we all have an opportunity (or three) to make a difference, to make unselfish decisions (although they may not be easy), to look to the long term benefit for our children’s generations … rather than a short term fix for me. Now don’t be fooled by my words: don’t for one minute think that I am doing any of the right things listed above – if I am trying to challenge anyone here, it is me. But I sense that 2016, is a time for unselfish wisdom – to make sure that in 50 years time people look back at

us and say, ‘Yes, they stuck together, sacrificed some comforts they had expected, and did the right thing, so that we can enjoy the benefits now’ – (in a similar way to the way we look back at the war time generations of the last century.) And, the thing is … we can make a huge difference, now; more so than ever. Our little island, and its widely spoken language, is still hugely respected around the world. Rightly or wrongly, we have a ‘voice’, we have an influence, and with influence comes responsibility and huge opportunity. We can take a lead, and others may follow. This can be in our family, in our work place or school, in our community, and in wider issues– dealing with difficult situations for the common good, not just to suit me. I am constantly amazed that how, when I occasionally do the right thing for others, I get a benefit too – sounds like good news to me! Roger Crookes - rogercrookes@lcsuk.net

Need space in our June 2016 edition? Deadline is Tuesday 24th May 2016.

N C T HAY You have two minutes to find all the words of three or more letters that can be made from the letters above. Plurals are allowed, proper nouns are not. The 6 letter word will always be just a normal everyday word.

3 letters: 10 4 letters: 4 5 letters: 2 6 letters: 1

3 Letters ACT ANT ANY CAN CAT HAT

HAY NAY TAN THY 4 Letters ACHY CANT

CHAT THAN 5 Letters CHANT YACHT 6 Letters CHANTY

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SAINT CAHERINE’S CHURCH Just off Mill Road, Caerphilly

FAMILY FUN DAY Saturday 7th May from 2pm Bouncy Castle Face Painting Balloon Modelling

Fantastic Prize Draw

Character Photo Shoots

Seasonal Gifts Stalls & Craft

Meet & Greet

Delicious BBQ, Cakes & Refreshments

(w) www.parishofcaerphilly.org.uk Registered Charity Number 1131172

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Can you find 10 differences?

• Residential Conveyancing • Crime • Accident & Personal Injury • Wills & Probate • Civil Litigation

• Family Law • Divorce • Child Care & Adoption • Injunctions • Domestic Violence • Financial Disputes • Cohabitees

Call to arrange a consultation Evans & Greaves Solicitors

5 Piccadilly Square, Caerphilly, CF83 1PB Telephone: 029 2086 6001 | www.evansandgreaves.co.uk Need space in our June 2016 edition? Deadline is Tuesday 24th May 2016.

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