Valleys Life Summer 2011

SUMMER 2011 PRICELESS

P R O U D

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I N D E P E N D E N T

T H E S O U T H WA L E S VA L L E Y S’ P R E M I E R L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E

SHINE ON

HERITAGE TRAILS, WONDERFUL WALKS PLUS LLANTRISANT, INTERIORS AND EXCEPTIONAL BUSINESSES

RESTAURANT REVIEWS, WHAT’S ON, BUSINESS, SHOPPING

THERE’S MORE ONLINE WWW.VALLEYSLIFE . CO . UK

ART, MUSIC, STYLE, HEALTH, HOMES AND MUCH MORE PLUS

WELCOME

Summertime and the living is easy! We might be in the height of summer but sometimes it feels like the depths, weather-wise.

There’s still a good chance we’ll get an Indian summer – just in time for the children to go back to school!

In this issue we take a look at all things home related, from blinds, kitchens, new windows and gorgeous garden furniture.

I’d like to thank Alun Huish and the team at Rhondda Cynon Taf for their contribution to this issue. In particular, their assistance with the Open Doors, Llantrisant, Walking and Foster Care features.

We’ve also been fortunate to interview Ian Jones, partner at Davies and Jones Optometrists. Ian’s a great chap and his interview on page 14 is a real eye-opener. There’s a healthy business section too for budding entrepreneurs.

Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts Editor jennifer@valleyslife.co.uk www.valleyslife.co.uk

Valleys Life magazine is proud to be homegrown. It is written, designed and printed right here in the South Wales Valleys.

Rocking Stones, Pontypridd.

Photograph courtesy of RCT Council

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It’ll be our way of keeping in touch with readers and subscribers in between magazines. There’ll be lots of news and exclusive content so send us your email to subscribe – jennifer@valleyslife.co.uk

CONTENTS This issue is packed with plenty of opportunities to get out more... as they say, “Get a Life!”

10 26

14

24

12

28 VA L L E Y S L I F E

IS WRITTEN,

DESIGNED AND PRINTED IN THE

VA L L E Y S

AND

IS PROUD TO BE INDEPENDENT

❧ 0845 180 1234

❧ COVER PHOTOGRAPH

R HONDDA H ERITAGE P ARK COURTESY OF

RCT C OUNCIL

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18

IN THIS ISSUE A CROSS

THE

V ALLEYS -

VALLEYS F OOD

AND

NEWS FROM THE

D RINK -

THE

V-S TYLE - T IMBER T ECH

V-B IZ ! – T HE

BEST OF

P RETTY G REEN

AND

VALLEYS

AN INSPIRATION TO US ALL

FROM HIGH STREET TO SIDE STREETS

W ALK T HIS W AY -

GLITZ AND GLAMOUR ALL THE WAY

T HE L AST W ORD - J ASON G REGORY WOULD LIKE TO THANK

EVERYONE WHO HAS SUPPORTED US OVER

O UR

FAMILIES , OUR FRIENDS

CONTRIBUTORS , OUR

( INCLUDING

ALL THE

NEW ONES WE HAVE MADE ) AND OUR

-

WITHOUT THEM

VALLEYS L IFE

WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE .

WE

HOPE YOU LIKE WHAT WE ’ VE PRODUCED

AND WE ’ LL TRY TO MAKE EACH ISSUE EVEN BETTER THAN THE LAST AND IF YOU HAVE A

16

STORY YOU ’ D LIKE TO SHARE , PLEASE GET IN TOUCH .

VALLEYS L IFE

HISTORY COMES ALIVE

YOU KNOW WHAT THOSE BOOTS ARE MADE FOR ...

VALLEYS S OCIAL L IFE -

ADVERTISERS

TURN ON THE STYLE

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR ?

O PENING T HE D OORS T O O UR H ERITAGE -

RECENT MONTHS .

MIRACLE

BUSINESS AND ENTERPRISE

H OME I S W HERE T HE H EART I S -

VALLEYS L IFE

M INI

PUTS THE COMPETITION IN THE SHADE

E XCEPTIONAL B USINESSES W ANTED -

L LANTRISANT -

PERFORM A

CELEBRATES

IS OPTIMISTIC ABOUT OPTOMETRY

R OLL U P , R OLL U P - S OLAR

6

AND BEYOND

W ELSH C IDER S OCIETY

M INI M AKEOVER - D AVIES M OTORS C LEAR V ISION - I AN J ONES

V ALLEYS

IS REGISTERED AT

T HE B RITISH

LIBRARY AS A MAGAZINE ISSN 1757-1731.

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BLOGS AND SURFS

6 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 34

ACROSS THE VALLEYS If you have a story which you would like to share, please contact Valleys Life VA L E W I D E

Caerphilly Mountain Snack Bar Caerphilly Mountain Snack Bar is the oldest independent operating snack bar not just in Wales, but the UK. Older than when coronation street first graced our screens and Motown rocked our souls. Peacock Media Group is organising the launch party which promises to be an unforgettable event.

There will be a great show for everyone attending with top entertainment and activities, competitions, give-aways, goody bags and a Mountain Monster raffle with some incredible prizes donated from businesses all across South Wales.

The Launch of the super-sized Caerphilly Mountain Snack Bar is on Saturday September 17th 10 - 4pm Mountain Road, Caerphilly. Thanks to Coca-cola sponsorship they have been awarded the official Olympic torches from Beijing and Vancouver for the day of the launch, giving all guests a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity to have their photo taken with these on the day.

They have also teamed up with Capital FM, to raise a mountain of cash for Help a Capital Child.

DERI

Family Fun Day A great day out The Deri Summer Family Fun Day was held in Glyn Derw in Deri on Saturday 13th August.

The Fun Day featured stalls from village groups like St Peters Church, Ysgwydd Gwyn Chapel, the local historical society, Deri Crafters, Kim’s Reflexology and Reiki, Credit Union and a stall selling hand-made jewellery also held a jewellery making class for people to make their own bracelets.

“Deri and Groesfaen Communities First Partnership and Gavo (Gwent Association of Voluntary Organisations) Holiday Play Scheme were so helpful,” said Claire.

Local children and teenagers enjoyed nail art, face painting, hair styling, adventure play, street games and creative play. Claire also organised an egg and spoon race, welly wanging and a three-legged race. Children and adults alike enjoyed karaoke, Hapus organic ice cream and Sonia’s local burger van served tasty delights. At the end of the day children finished off with giant parachute games.

“They helped find funding for the event and equipment. The equipment will then be used at the Creative kids club that I run in term time. We can also lend it out to local groups in the village too.”

Claire would like to thank everyone that supported the event. “It made me realise that community spirit is still here,” said Claire. “The day was fantastic fun and I’m looking forward to it again, next year.”

Claire Roberts-Lloyd, a local community volunteer wanted to give children and their families a day to remember over the summer break by injecting more community spirit into the event.

“It made me realise that community spirit is still here. The day was fantastic fun and I’m looking forward to it again, next year.” ❧ 6 ❧

www.facebook.com/ CaerphillyMountainSnackBar Folow them on Twitter @MountainSnacks

VA L E W I D E

Celtic Manor celebrates Ryder Cup anniversary The Celtic Manor Resort is inviting golfers to return to celebrate the first anniversary of Europe’s dramatic victory in The 2010 Ryder Cup by playing in a special challenge match on Monday 3rd October.

Reliving Monty’s Magic Monday, players will have the chance to represent Team Europe or Team USA, soaking up the Ryder Cup atmosphere with breakfast in their allocated team rooms before taking on the spectacular challenge of the Twenty Ten Course. On the one-year anniversary of what many have hailed the most exciting Ryder Cup of all-time, participants will play to the exact same pin positions which confronted Graeme McDowell and the rest of Europe’s heroes during their nail-biting, onepoint triumph.

“An exclusive opportunity for amateur golfers to experience golf’s most celebrated team competition.”

The Ryder Cup Anniversary Challenge will be played as a fourball betterball competition under a shotgun start with players able to keep in touch with the overall match scoreboard throughout the day via live scoring. At the conclusion of play, the winning team will be announced and champagne will flow on the balcony of the Twenty Ten Clubhouse, just as it did when Captain Colin Montgomerie and his delighted team celebrated in front of their ecstatic fans a year before.

“The Ryder Cup Anniversary Challenge offers an exclusive opportunity for amateur golfers to experience golf’s most celebrated team competition,” says Dylan Matthews, Chief Executive of Celtic Manor.

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Players will also enjoy a three-course dinner in the Samuel Ryder Suite to round off a memorable day. For an entry fee of £245, players will all receive: ■ 18 holes on Twenty Ten Course with live scoring ■ Breakfast upon arrival in allocated team room ■ Commemorative team shirt, sweater and hat ■ Champagne reception on balcony of Twenty Ten Clubhouse ■ Three-course celebration dinner in Samuel Ryder Suite For more information visit celtic-manor.com or call Reservations on 01633 410263.

JOBS AND OPPORTUNITIES BUSINESSES

POSITION

Advertise with us!

Sales Executives

If you’re looking for a job or are in business and have a position to fill, you’ve come to the right place.

And if you’re not an advertiser, don’t worry, it’s still very cost-effective.

Call us on 0845 180 1234 to discuss the options.

For the rest of 2011 it’ll be free to advertise a job on the Valleys Life website if you are already an advertiser in Valleys Life magazine.

For more information on how to promote your vacancy please email jennifer@valleyslife.co.uk

Why? Because times are tough at the moment and we want to make it as easy as possible for employers to find employees.

www.valleyslife.co.uk www.valelife.co.uk www.citylifecardiff.co.uk www.westlifewales.co.uk

WINTER 2010

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Location South & West Wales.

Hours Part time or full time.

Salary Good basic plus healthy commission.

Field sales executive required for our expanding range of high quality lifestyle magazine titles.

You will be responsible for selling advertising space in several of our lifestyle titles; Vale Life, City Life, Valleys Life and our new title West Life.

PRICELESS

I N D E P E N D E N T

T H E S O U T H WA L E S VA L L E Y S’ P R E M I E R L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E

You will have a proven record in magazine or publishing sales. You will have excellent communication skills and the ability to organise your own workload and manage pressure and priorities. You will need to be IT literate. Own car and clean driving licence essential.

Please send cv and current salary to: Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts, Good life publishing Ltd Cardiff House, Cardiff Road Barry, Vale of Glamorgan CF63 2AW.

HOT STUFF DINE OUT & DINE IN WITH STYLE, THE GENTILE TOUCH MISKIN MANOR, MEG GARCZYNSKA & MORE

RESTAURANT REVIEWS, WHAT’S ON, BUSINESS, SHOPPING

THERE’S

MORE ONLINE

WWW.VALLEYSLIFE . CO . UK

SUMMER 2011 PRICELESS

P R O U D

T O

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I N D E P E N D E N T

T H E S O U T H WA L E S VA L L E Y S’ P R E M I E R L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E

SHINE ON

HERITAGE TRAILS, WONDERFUL WALKS PLUS LLANTRISANT, INTERIORS AND EXCEPTIONAL BUSINESSES

RESTAURANT REVIEWS, WHAT’S ON, BUSINESS, SHOPPING

THERE’S

MORE ONLINE

WWW.VALLEYSLIFE . CO . UK

We’re always looking for great people to join our team. Please get in touch today.

PLUS A RT , M USIC , S TYLE , HEALTH, HOMES AND MUCH MORE

PLUS A RT , M USIC , S TYLE , HEALTH, HOMES AND MUCH MORE

Valleys Life magazine.

Committed to quality.

Passionate about the Valleys We are independent. We are not a large publishing group pretending to be home-grown. Valleys Life magazine is written, designed and printed in the South Wales valleys. Our income is re-invested in the area.

Our philosophy We are committed to quality. This quote by William Foster pretty much sums up our thinking. “Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction and skillful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives.”

Use it or lose it Business is the very lifeblood of any community. Without business, villages have no heart, towns have no centre, and cities have no soul. Please support the businesses who advertise in Valleys Life - without them there’d be no Valleys Life magazine. ❧ 8 ❧

Small(ish) print © Copyright Valleys Life 2011. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine (including adverts) may be reproduced in any shape or form (in whole or part) without the express written permission of the publishers. We take breach of copyright and theft of intellectual property extremely seriously and will sue at the drop of a croissant. You have been warned (nicely); ignorance is no excuse.

Green is good The pulp used in the paper production Valleys Life is printed on is obtained from sustainably managed Scandinavian tree farms and utilises an elementary chlorine-free bleaching process.

Important you read this We have made every effort to ensure that all information contained in Valleys Life or on www.valleyslife.co.uk is correct and accurate. However, we accept no responsibility for any errors

SOUTHERNDOWN

West Farm The perfect venue West Farm Barn in Southerndown is a vibrant community and business venue, with its facilities being used for important meetings

by Wales Arts International, Creative Rural Communities, Zoom Film and Television, Skillset Film Academy Wales, Southerndown Community Group and the in house Film Club.

West Farm is now opening its new function room and ‘LEGENDS’ bar capable of accommodating up to 80 people for business to business events, training courses and seminars.

The Barn at West Farm offers: ■ Cinema and film club for locals and tourists.

■ Peaceful surroundings.

■ Spectacular views over the Bristol Channel and beyond.

■ Disabled access.

■ Catering and kitchen facilities.

■ Spacious courtyard and extensive garden to accommodate marquees for larger events.

■ Provision for landing a helicopter.

The new facility features: ■ High Definition, Blu Ray, video projection onto 150” screen.

■ 5.1 Surround Sound, wireless PA System.

■ Live HD Freeview TV. ■ Ability to connect PC/Laptop playout for PowerPoint presentations.

“West Farm Barn in Southerndown is a vibrant community and business venue.”

Café now open The barn at West Farm is an ideal location for weddings, and is approved for marriages and civil partnership ceremonies.

The Barn at West Farm West Farm Southerndown CF32 OPY 01656 880465 admin@barnatwestfarm.com www.barnatwestfarm.com

or omissions and can offer no compensation should we get it wrong.

Please note that the opinions, thoughts, views or ideas expressed in articles contained in Valleys Life are strictly those of the authors.

Caveat emptor All advertisers have supplied their own copy (and in some cases artwork), and therefore Valleys Life cannot accept any responsibility for disputes between advertisers and their customers.

Caveat emptor - let the buyer beware.

Subscriptions To guarantee your copy of Valleys Life magazine, please send a cheque for £20.00 (four issues) made payable to Valleys Life. Visit www.valleyslife.co.uk for special subscriber discounts and special offers.

Missed the last issue?

We hold a small number of each issue in stock, so if you do need a pristine copy, please telephone us or email jennifer@valleyslife.co.uk. Hopefully we’ll have the issue you want (but we cannot guarantee it). Each back issue costs £5 which includes postage and packing.

Yes it’s free!

Valleys Life is distributed free through a wide variety of outlets across the South Wales Valleys. Valleys Life is given away free of charge on the understanding that we are happy for it to be lent, passed around, given to friends and generally read until it falls apart. At which point, you can recycle it - and we’d be delighted if you did.

Recycling... because there is no Plan B!

Valleys Life is home-grown. It is written, designed and printed in the Valleys. ❧ 9 ❧

T H E S O U T H WA L E S VA L L E Y S PREMIER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE Editor JENNIFER HOBBS-ROBERTS jennifer@valleyslife.co.uk ❧ Creative Director MARK ROBERTS mark@valleyslife.co.uk ❧ Studio PA U L S E S S I O N S studio@goodlifepublishing.co.uk ❧ Valleys Life Cardiff House Cardiff Road CF63 2AW ❧ Valleys Life Website www.valleyslife.co.uk ❧ Telephone

0845 180 1234

FOOD & DRINK EACH ISSUE WE BRING YOU THE BEST IN THE VALLEYS VA L E W I D E

C H E F M AT T P O W E L L

Matt Powell reflects on a family recipe

Summer Tasting menu June 2011

My great grandmother Violet grew roses as I do in our garden now.

My great grandfather would always have a rose waiting for my mother on our visits during the summer.

Matt will be running his increasingly popular dining events throughout the Summer and Autumn. Please visit www.chefmattpowell.co.uk for more information.

My food reflects a sense of place, but also a sense of meaning and a definite sense of feeling and nostalgia.

The following is a dessert that always reminds of her.

Prices start from £65 for food and £80 with a glass of wine for each course.

I steep, clean, fresh roses in cream overnight to impart its perfume and I use preserved elderflowers in sugar syrup with the addition of wild strawberries. The rest is just a simple parfait recipe.

“Matt Powell will be running his increasingly popular dining events throughout the Summer and Autumn.”

Summer tasting menu Bone marrow and oyster leaf, rosehip vinegar reduction, wild garlic capers.

Gros plant, Nantais, Sebastian Chereau 2009.

Rack of Welsh mountain lamb, yarrow, meadow sorrel and slow cooked rye berry and lamb reduction.

Gigondas, Domaine Saint Gayan 2003.

Reindeer lichen dusted with porcini powder, beech nuts and Beech leaf emulsion.

Alsace Riesling, Charles Schleret 2007.

Aerated rose parfait, wild strawberry, rose jelly, sweet preserved roses and elderflower.

Monbazillac, Domaine de l'Ancienne Cure.

Chanterelles baked with pine shoot and thyme, free range egg yolk cooked at 65oc in rapeseed oil, broad beans and chanterelle sauce.

Jurançon sec, Pierre Blanche 2008.

Scallops and sea shore edibles Caramelised Scottish diver picked scallops, sea purslane, sea arrow grass, crisp sea lettuce and scallop crème.

Cassis, Clos st Magdeleine 2008.

Sweet woodruff set cream, birch bark meringue, birch bark sorbet and birch syrup.

Muscat, Beaumes de venice.

Menus may be subject to small changes.

Photography by Mark Johnnson.

Mojoffoto.com

Matt Powell Mobile 07515 380 169 matt@chefmattpowell.com www.chefmattpowell.com

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S O U T H WA L E S

Decade of Success for Welsh Cider Society The Welsh Perry and Cider Society celebrated a decade of success by hosting a party in August to celebrate its anniversary.

The society, whose mission is to reignite the craft perry and cider industry in Wales, was formed by Dave Matthews and Alan Golding, cider enthusiasts who had started to dabble in some cidermaking, in 2001.

Dave Matthews, who began as one of two men at the very first meeting is now Chairman of the Welsh Perry and Cider Society and still operates the same mission with which the society was created.

Dave Matthews said, “In 1999 Alan Golding and I hit upon the idea of making cider, and so our company ‘Seidr Dai’ was born. By sheer luck, our first brew was a success, and in our subsequent enthusiasm we decided to found a national association. At that time there were cider associations for cider makers, and of course CAMRA was there for the drinkers. We thought why not have a society that caters for both? And so the Welsh Cider Society was born at the Clytha Arms one June evening 2001, with Alan the Development Officer, and I the Secretary.”

In 2010 the effectiveness of the Society increased many fold, with a grant award by the Welsh Assembly Government through the Supply Chain Efficiencies Scheme. This meant funds to promote Welsh cider and perry, a Development Officer and Admin Assistant to deliver the programme, and a new Society office to act as Welsh Cider HQ. With the number of cider makers in Wales having doubled in the past 5 years, the Welsh Perry and Cider Society is working hard to encourage cider enthusiasts to try their hand at cider making and assisting cider makers to train and develop their skills. This has proved an advantage to producers, giving them the opportunity to gain necessary training, such as Personal Licence training, with financial and administrative assistance.

Photography by Bill Bradshaw www.billbradshaw.co.uk

Dave Matthews added, “The Welsh Perry and Cider Society have made great progress over the last ten years.

We have supplied positive coverage and strengthened awareness of these refined craft products. The future also looks bright for Welsh cider and perry.

More and more people are joining the ranks of Welsh cider makers, the number of Welsh cider festivals is set to increase, and rare varieties of Welsh apple and pear trees are regularly discovered, propagated and planted.

Ten years of successfully promoting Welsh cider and perry has resulted in increasing numbers of producers and annual increases in the quantity and quality of cider and perry produced.

We hope and plan to continue this success going forward.”

Every year the society runs the Welsh Perry & Cider Festival on Whitsun May Bank Holiday weekend. The first event in 2002 was a great success, and each successive year has seen an more and more ciders and perries on sale, with great crowds of people filling the pub and its extensive grounds.

August 12-14 saw the launch of the society’s most ambitious project yet – the International Craft Cider Festival.

Cidermakers from France, Germany, Spain, England and Wales touched down at Llancaiach Fawr in south-east Wales, with fantastic food and great live music all adding to a great occasion.

Hobbyists, professionals and enthusiastic cider drinkers, with support from under the umbrella of the Welsh Perry and Cider Society are working to dispel the image of cheap, get-drunk-quick brands reminiscent of youthful alcohol introductions, replacing it with more refined craft varieties that can be sipped, savoured and enjoyed with food in the same way as a good wine. The Society was set up in 2001 as a not-for-profit organisation that aims to promote cider and perry made here in Wales, ideally from Welsh fruit. It provides assistance to existing and potential cider makers, as well as researching and regenerating orchards, and working to identify and conserve rare varieties of Welsh cider apples and perry pears.

Welsh Perry and Cider Society

“The Welsh Perry and Cider Society was set up in 2001 as a not-for-profit organisation that aims to promote cider and perry made here in Wales, ideally from Welsh fruit.” ❧ 11 ❧

The Office, Blaengawney Farm Mynydd Maen, Hafodyrynys, Crumlin Caerphilly NP11 5AY 01495 240983 admin@welshcider.co.uk www.welshcider.co.uk

When we’re looking a bit tired, we nip off to a beauty salon or spa for a few treatments so why shouldn’t we do it for our cars?

I bought my wife this beautiful blue Mini Cooper eight years ago for Christmas - bit extravagant I know but it was well deserved, trust me, and the only brand new car she’s ever owned.

MINI

Over the years I’ve asked if she’d like to change it but on the two occasions we seriously went looking for a replacement, we came right back to the Mini Cooper and, quite honestly, there didn’t seem much point selling a perfectly good, low mileage Mini only to replace it with another on finance.

However, since 2003, the Mini had picked up several scrapes and little dings. Someone had reversed into the rear bumper at some point (and not owned up) and while not serious damage, it was noticeable.

The paintwork was generally a little tired all over and the black parts on the car had faded to a rather dull grey.

All in all, this once stunning little number was sadly past its best.

“To say this eight year old Mini looks as new would be an understatement. Honestly, if it wasn’t for the number plate, you couldn’t tell it from new.

It’s gorgeous again and my wife is delighted.” ❧ 12 ❧

Chatting to a friend, he suggested getting a cost for sprucing it up at Davies Motor Company. They were Bentley and Aston Martin approved and said that this was the place companies take their second-hand vehicles to have them prepared for resale. Great idea, I thought, and immediately made an appointment (not telling my wife, thinking this was another opportunity to give her a nice suprise). I was given a quotation and agreed to drop the Mini off - the work would take a week.

I fabricated a plausible story about the Mini needing some mechanical repairs.

MAKEOVER A week later, we picked up our ‘brand new’ Mini from Davies Motor Company. I say brand new because that’s what it is essentially. The car has been completely transformed.

The rear bumper was repaired and resprayed and the rest of the car machine-polished and all the little dents, scratches and scrapes miraculously removed.

The alloy wheels which were covered in scratches and scrapes from too many brushes with kerbs are now like new.

All the dull black mirror bases and wiper arms have been sprayed and are like new. Add in a new set of number plates, wiper blades and wheel centres and you’re looking at a car that looks as good as when it came off the production line.

To say this eight-year-old Mini looks as new would be an understatement.

Honestly, if it wasn’t for the number plate, you couldn’t tell it from new. It’s gorgeous again and my wife is delighted!

“Why not go for a makeover? In aesthetic terms, it’s superb and in financial terms it makes perfect sense.”

In aesthetic terms, the makeover is superb and in financial terms it makes perfect sense. These are austere times so if you have a car that you love that is essentially good for its age, but looks a little tired, why not go for a makeover rather than a full replacement. Our Mini has more or less stopped depreciating so we’re enjoying free motoring now bar ongoing wear and tear. The whole exercise cost less than £1,000 and has almost certainly added that in value and there’s no reason we couldn’t go back to Davies Motor Company in a few years for another quick makeover just to keep on top of things. It’s certainly in our diary. ❧ 13 ❧

Sean and Donna of Davies Motor Company

Davies Motor Company Hadfield Close, Cardiff CF11 8BD 029 2039 4407 info@daviesmotorcompany.co.uk www.daviesmotorcompany.com

When Ian Jones, partner at Davies and Jones Optometrists graduated from Aston University in 1983 his ambition for better eye-care for all was to set him on a path that would lead him to have more influence than he could have imagined.

CLEAR VISION Please tell us about yourself I graduated from Aston University in 1983 (Honours Degree) and passed my professional exams (Diploma Optometry) in 1984 after a year’s ‘pre-registration’ training in Bargoed and Church Village. From 1988 until 1997 I worked in Merthyr Tydfil and joined LDJ and DE Davies Opticians on the invitation of Lionel Davies who I met through the professional health body, The Local Optical Committee, during the preceding few years.

In 2003 I succeeded David Davies and Davies and Jones Optometrists was born. In between I have continued my ‘repesentative’ career, being first Secretary and then Chairman of what became the South East Wales Optometric Committee. I now Chair the Welsh Government Optometric Committee and work with Cardiff University Welsh Post Graduate Optometric Centre and the national Local Optometric Committee Support Unit in London. I continue to work to improve local services with Cwm Taf Local Health Board.

When was the business established?

The business was begun by Eric Davies in the 1950s in Hannah Street in Porth.

The ‘headquarters’ still exists to this day in the old Thomas and Evans building. This is where we have our own workshop producing our customers’ spectacles, using the latest computerised tracing equipment and sometimes finishing the specs by hand, especially the rimless frames which require special techniques.

Lionel and his brother graduated from Cardiff University in the 1970s and joined their father (and mother who ran reception, was chief admin officer, chief factotum and still works for the company even in her eighties!) developing the group until it reached the six practices of which it consists in 1984. LDJ and DE Davies became First Light Optical and trades under the name Davies and Jones Optometrists in September 2003 when I succeeded David Davies.

How many practices do you have?

The six practices are supported by thirty four employees who work extremely hard to provide the sort of care and attention that they would expect to be given themselves.

Through this they have earned the coveted Investors in People award for the business that was put in place mainly by Andrew Hobby, our Treorchy and Treherbert practice manager.

Ian Jones

What sets you apart as optometrists from others in your field?

Davies and Jones has striven to be a quality independent optometrist that hasn’t chased the retail model but rather has looked at the whole process of providing family eye-care for the 21st century. Through training and education of every team member, we’ve endeavoured to make each part of the process a valuable part of the whole, whether this involves patient contact at the time of making the appointment, just walking through the door, examining the eyes and offering guidance and advice.

Ferndale and Dinas Powys practices are satellites that are run by Joanna Wilson and Simon Jones, optometrists who live locally, as do all our staff, and Porth is now run by Owain Mealing whose family is well known in the Rhondda.

Talbot Green is managed by Melissa Houlker who has raised the bar in service delivery (and expectation!) since arriving from the multiple sector in 2005. Melissa is our Registered Dispensing Optician and leads the styling, fitting and buying process and is supported in turn by Lisa Elson and Diane Foale in Porth and Treorchy respectively. ❧ 14 ❧

Lionel Davies

In taking part in professional education and training, including providing ongoing professional development inhouse through Peer Review, or funding staff training to further their careers and through working with professional committees and Cardiff University, the Company delights in innovating care pathways in community eye-care such as the purchase of an OCT instrument which allows three dimensional modelling of lesions within the retina and a specialised scanner, an Optomap, one of only four in locations in Wales.

We can provide stereo optic nerve photography which is used to help manage those who have or may have glaucoma and run specialised low vision clinics through the members of our team who provide the Welsh Government’s Welsh Eye Health Initiative Low Vision Aid scheme. All our Optometrists are WG’s Primary Eyecare Acute Referral Service accredited, providing emergency eye-care in community settings. We can provide Orthokeratology, a process of reshaping the cornea not unlike the use of laser to correct short sight, but using contact lenses instead.

“Davies and Jones Optometrists - providing family eye-care for the 21st century.”

What do you do to relax when you’re not working?

I’ve been a cyclist since I was five years old, although I seem to come off more these days than when I started. I’ve been a long distance road cyclist, lycraclad skin and bones covered in flies and dying of thirst and I’m now a mud splattered and broken-boned off road single tracker with a season ticket carpark pass for the Afan Argoed complex.

I seem to collect every article that keeps me safe and warm up mountains while I indulge my new passion for extreme walking throughout Wales, especially the Beacons and Snowdonia.

Looking after the house and my wife are my particular passions. Photography covers them all and I’d love to have more time to be able to sit, write and maybe publish a book on Wales as I see it. One day perhaps.

“There is, after all, satisfaction in helping people choose an excellent product with really good lenses and providing a great look with great vision.” ❧ 15 ❧

What is your long-term vision for the business?

There is a fine line between being in a groove and getting in a rut and by bringing in new blood by working with trainees, having regular sessions, formal and informal, with staff and listening to comments from all our stakeholders and most importantly our patients, we intend to move the eye-care process beyond being seen as purveyors of spectacles and contact lenses to an area of all round eye-care.

This will take D&J beyond a simple retail experience, although that will remain a strong part of the structure: there is, after all, satisfaction in helping people choose an excellent product with really good lenses and providing a great look with great vision.

Davies and Jones Optometrists To make an appointment please telephone one of the practices below: Ferndale Porth Talbot Green Treorchy Treherbert Dinas Powys

01443 730214 01443 682284 01443 223124 01443 773879 01443 775899 029 2051 4089

www.daviesandjonesoptometrists.co.uk

V-STYLE

Summer’s here and with it are gorgeous items to covet for you and your loved ones.

S O U T H WA L E S

Enjoy Summer in style with TimberTech TimberTech, a company from South Wales, is helping homes across the UK to transform the country’s gardens into stylish havens. TimberTech’s on-line retail brand, greensquares, provides a range of unique outdoor products that you definitely won’t find in your local DIY superstore.

Its philosophy is to provide products that are led by design, built to last and made by people who care about their craft – and that’s exactly what you’ll find on its website. From obelisks and oil torches to benches and beanbags, the team at greensquares have sourced products from all over Europe.

Greensquares is the only UK stockist of the cult Dutch brand apple bee, whose range of hand-woven lounge furniture is full of laid-back Netherlands chic, with stylish chairs, sofas and coffee tables. It is also a local stockist of the Alexander Rose outdoor dining furniture range.

Timbertech Products Limited 029 2070 5113 info@timbertechuk.co.uk www.timbertechuk.co.uk

CARDIFF

Pretty Green opens in Morgan Arcade Pretty Green is a fashion label founded and designed by Liam Gallagher and established in 2009.

The Green and Black labels are two distinct collections. The Green Label is a focused, casual range dedicated to providing quality, everyday signature pieces. The Black Label is classic British tailoring, using fine fabric with an innovative attention to detail. All of the pieces in each collection are strictly limited edition and are designed by Liam. Pretty Green opened its first Welsh store in Cardiff in June. Located at 22-24 Morgan Arcade (the former site of the famous menswear store Woodies Emporium) the store will comprise over 1,200 sq ft of retail space.

“The Green and Black labels are two distinct collections. All of the pieces are strictly limited edition and are designed by Liam.”

The new store will house both the Black and Green Label collections and feature iconic imagery from Liam’s latest shoot for the Pretty Green SS11 collection.

As with each of the Pretty Green stores, the Cardiff store will focus on providing monthly live music from a host of established and unsigned bands. ❧ 16 ❧

Pretty Green 22-24 Morgan Arcade Cardiff CF10 1AF www.prettygreen.com General Hours Mon - Sat, 10am - 6pm Sun, 10am - 4pm

Get closer to nature with Karndean Capture the beauty of nature with Art Select in your home with realistic wood tones, textures and grains. www.karndean.co.uk/artselect Tel: 0800 121 4155

YOUR LOCAL KARNDEAN RETAILERS:

FLOOR DE LEE Unit 1 Ely Valley Business Park Coed Cae Lane, Pontyclun Mid Glamorgan CF72 9DZ 01443 449644

FLOORSTYLE SOUTH WALES C/O Gallery Kitchens Brackla Industrial Estate Bridgend CF31 2AQ 01656 662670

With a stunning new range of roller blinds, plantation shutters and awnings, the sun is certainly shining for Solar Sunshades. Valleys Life takes a quick tour with Solar’s busy Managing Director, Huw Davies.

Solar has been around for over thirty years or more, so there’s not a lot it hasn’t seen or been resilient and robust enough to survive, and that matters. Why? Well, if you buy off a company that’s gone in six months’ time and your blinds fail, you’ll be left holding a rather useless cord.

Huw says, “As Wales’ No.1 Blind company we aim to offer a quality product at a fair price. Solar will never be the cheapest blinds in the market, but we take quality, customer service and safety very seriously. It’s why customers return again and again.”

Tragically, in the UK, there have been five child fatalities due to strangulation in blind cords and Solar are very active in the ‘make it safe’ campaign.

ROLL UP ROLL UP Huw says, “Child safety is of paramount importance to Solar and all our products are fitted with a child safety device.”

Solar has a factory and showroom at Bridgend, a showroom in Barry as well as concessions at Leekes stores in Llantrisant, Cross Hands and Melksham plus a further concession at George Street Furnishers in Newport.

If you own a conservatory then you may also be in the market for some Solar service, with their Perfect Fit system; a fantastic product where no drilling or screwing is required to fix the blinds to windows. Plantation shutters and motorised blinds are also becoming very popular with customers wanting a dramatic change of style and ease of use.

On March 1st Solar launched its new ‘Inspirations’ range, which contains their best collection of fabrics ever, with brand new designs, textures and a colour palette that’s bang on trend.

This collection means you can gain the look at an affordable price.

“We take quality, customer service and safety very seriously.

It’s why customers return again and again.”

Solar Sunshades Bridgend Industrial Estate Bridgend CF31 3TP 01656 663800 www.solarsunshades.co.uk

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V-BIZ!

P O R T H C AW L

To get ahead...

TYPE BUSINESS

One of the best ways to get more business is to utilise social media; blogging, Facebook and Twitter.

The key tool here is a blog but where do you start?

Jason, owner of Type Business says, “You need to think bigger than just a website if you want to increase online business. Your blog can display recent social media activity, keeping your pages co-ordinated and up to date, it’s about telling your clients or customers that you are the expert and making your content accessible. Understanding social media is the challenge, there is no point doing something if you don’t have a clear objective. We can help your business by combining a website, S O U T H WA L E S

Celebrate your business’s success Caerphilly Business Forum is marking the 10th anniversary of its prestigious Annual Business Awards on the 11th of November 2011 in association with Coleg Gwent by celebrating with a stylish awards ceremony.

blog and social media bundle into one integrated solution that is easy to use and effective. We can explain social media etiquette, provide training and help you make the most of the web to create an achievable strategy for your business.”

S O U T H WA L E S

Allan Blair Beaton talks about Google+ What is Google+?

Google+ is the latest social media innovation for staying more connected and having more control of your information. Google+ is actually a series of tools to help you stay connected with the people you care about and it includes a suite of comprehensive social tools to make your life easier and they’re called Circles, Hangouts, Huddle, and Sparks. It makes your life easier by adding some new ways of filtering the information you receive as well as the information you share.

Allan Blair Beaton

01656 782044 Jason@type-business.co.uk www.type-business.co.uk

Enter now and make sure you shout about your company’s success.

Alternatively, come and join our celebration of the Caerphilly business community’s remarkable success and network with some of the most successful businesses in the area. The three-course meal will be followed by the awards ceremony hosted by journalist and broadcaster Jason Mohammad and the celebrations will continue long into the night.

All social media sites are @AllanBBeaton www.social-b2b.com

Caerphilly Business Forum Annual Business Awards Friday 11 November 2011 7pm £45 + VAT. Table of 10 £425 + VAT Booking Details Email awards@cbforum.co.uk with your company name, contact name, contact email and telephone number.

The awards provide recognition of the outstanding achievements of businesses in Caerphilly County Borough and give a welcome and deserved boost to the reputation and morale of those businesses that are shortlisted - and of course the eventual winners.

The awards have grown considerably since their launch and this year’s event at Llancaiach Fawr Manor, near Nelson, will be the biggest yet, with new categories including a special one for all past winners. The awards cater for all sorts and all sizes of business. You can see the full range of categories at www.cbforum.co.uk Pictured right; all the winners of Caerphilly Business Forum Awards 2010, from left to right, are; Kautex Textron CVS Ltd, Budget Vets Limited, Partners IT Limited, Creazione Dance Company Ltd, Tom Newman of The Celt Experience Ltd and the overall winners Direct Healthcare Services Ltd.

Photograph by Tim Dickeson

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S O U T H WA L E S

The Noble art of training

Noble Training’s qualified, experienced instructors provide a friendly, professional service, and are able to discuss your specific training issues and offer tailormade solutions to suit your individual needs.

S O U T H A N D W E S T WA L E S

Motorcyclists...

It’s time to GearUp Motorcycle enthusiasts in the Vale have got together to produce a new magazine for South and West Wales aimed at Welsh bikers.

GearUp issue 1 was launched on August 1st and the GearUp website at www.gearupmag.co.uk is already attracting motorcyclists from across the world. Publisher Jonathan Sims said, “There are some great motorcycle magazines out there but we wanted to produce something that would really appeal to Welsh bikers. The magazine will be free and funded entirely by advertising.”

Shaun Pope, writer and test rider said, “This is great fun to be involved with.

Riding bikes and writing about them is brilliant and a real privilege.”

Mark Johnson, a successful commercial photographer, and biker said, “I’m proud to be a part of GearUp. It’s a great team and I get to photograph a subject that is very close to my heart.”

Jonathan Sims added, “We’ve also built a forum into the website so Welsh bikers can connect with each other.

We want to build a real community with motorcycles at its centre. That’s the GearUp philosophy.”

THE ESSENTIAL READ FOR MOTORCYCLISTS IN SOUTH & WEST WALES

WE’RE ON FACEBOOK.COM/GEARUPMAG & WWW.GEARUPMAG.CO.UK

F R E E S U M M E R 2 0 11

TWO WHEELS GOOD

BY BIKERS FOR BIKERS

IN THIS ISSUE

ABERDARE PARK ROAD RACES

HOOKED ON CLASSICS A MUCKY WEEKEND FOR A TENERE

Professional quality and excellent value for money, they are committed to providing training courses in the following: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Social care Health and safety Manual handling Fire awareness First aid

WIN!

£ RIDE50 IN OU R COMR PROFIL PET E SEE PA ITION GE 66

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WE RIDE THE BIKES YOU’LL BUY

Siriol Burford

Noble Training’s customers include blue chip corporations along with local government, civil service and businesses across the UK. Noble Training 08081 081683 Mobile 07929 139055 noble.training@ntlworld.com www.nobletrainingsolutions.com S O U T H WA L E S

There’s more to life than Valleys Life At Valleys Life we do more than just publish the Valleys’ premier lifestyle magazine. We also provide many satisfied clients with: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Graphic Design and Printing Copywriting Marketing and PR Website Design and E-commerce Blogging and Social Media Photography and Image Creation Online Marketing and Search Optimisation ■ Exhibition and Display Systems ■ Distribution and Point of Sale.

So, if you’d like your project or publication to have a little bit of Valleys Life magic, get in touch. We’d love the opportunity to work with you.

WE RIDE WITH THE DIAVEL

MV AGUSTA BRUTALE TRIED TO KILL THE POPE!

Gareth Noble

Testimonial from Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Plasmawr I first heard about Noble Training Solutions through my husband, who speaks with great enthusiasm about Gareth Noble the instructor of a military martial arts course he attended, I was intrigued to learn more about the philosophy behind Gareth and his businessess work. His work revolves about raising people's self esteem and ensuring personal safety through his many courses from Health and Safety, First Aid at Work, Positive Behaviour Management, amongst others.

During our Personal and Social Education day recently, he gave our sixth formers food for thought regarding their body language and how to avoid being a victim of crime.

For more information contact Mark Roberts 07766 106731 mark@valleyslife.co.uk Visit our websites

www.valleyslife.co.uk www.citylifecardiff.co.uk www.valelife.co.uk ❧ 21 ❧

“Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction and skillful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives.”

EXCEPTIONAL

BUSINESSES WANTED The launch of the prestigious Rhondda Cynon Taf Business Club Gala Awards 2012 is ‘occurring’ this month. From Thursday, September 29, the search will be on for the best of RCT's enterprises, and local businesses are invited to enter the RCT Business Club Gala Awards. Previous hosts for this high profile event include Welsh treasure, Ruth Jones, and Lord Sugar’s right hand man Nick Hewer.

Nick Hewer

Ruth Jones and Cllr Paul Cannon

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The Gala Awards recognise and celebrate all that is great in local business and, over the last five years, have become the local business event of the year.

With seven categories and an overall Winners Award, the event is open to all businesses in the County Borough of Rhondda Cynon Taf and are easy to enter. Non Business Club Members can also enter.

Why enter?

Award winners and companies that are shortlisted enjoy many benefits: ■ Publicity and recognition of achievement throughout the county and beyond ■ Press and media recognition straight after the Awards ■ Winners receive a certificate and bespoke trophy ■ Winners also receive the accolade of being judged the best of the best in their field in the county borough ■ Opportunity to reward staff for their contributions to the company ■ An excellent networking opportunity at the awards ceremony.

The RCT Business Club Gala Awards will take place on Friday, April 27 2012 and are all about showcasing the best businesses in RCT. There are plenty of opportunities to take part in the ceremony, from sponsoring an award to winning one.

Rhondda Cynon Taf Business Club continues to work for the benefit of its members and remains open to all who wish to join.

The Business Club provides an environment for local business people to access services and information to help your business thrive and grow; membership of the club is corporate so you and all your team can participate and benefit.

Enter your business in The RCT Business Club Gala Awards To request an entry form call 01443 495169 or visit www.rctbusinessclub.co.uk

ABERCYNON

Techsol UK A local success story Techsol UK Ltd of Abercynon, a design consultancy that provides a product solution from concept to manufacture, is one of the latest businesses to benefit from the South East Wales Local Investment Fund.

As well as being a previous winner of the RCT Business Club Gala Awards, receiving financial support has further developed their business. With the help of financial assistance, Techsol UK were able to update their hardware, acquire new CAD software to enable the business to expand the range of services it offers to clients and were able to create a new staff position. ❧ 23 ❧

The Local Investment Fund was developed with support from the Welsh Government through the European Regional Development Fund, under the Convergence Programme and is delivered through a partnership across six Local Authorities. The Local Investment Fund is currently available and supports new and existing SMEs to develop and grow by investing in capital projects.

Business Support Team 01443 495169 invest@rctcbc.gov.uk

Patience, care, love and trust are the cornerstone of fostering according to Ken and Yvonne Mason of Abercynon - and they should know, with over three decades’ experience. Valleys Life talks to them about the joys and challenges of fostering.

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS Ken and Yvonne have been fostering for 35 years, making them the longest and most experienced foster carers in Rhondda Cynon Taf and it’s their expertise and fulfilment that they hope will inspire others to follow the same path and offer children a new start in life.

Please tell us about your experiences fostering children We married more than 40 years ago, and were inspired to reach out to children in need of care after tragically losing our son at just two years old in a road accident.

This must have been quite a difficult decision It certainly wasn’t an easy decision to make as in the 1970s, when we started fostering, the maintenance allowance for a child was a mere £3 per week.

But it wasn’t just the financial implications that worried us. We were also concerned whether we were emotionally able to provide a child with the kind of love required but as we’ve fostered fifteen children successfully to date I think we needn’t have worried!

How long did the children live with you?

The majority of our children were with us on long-term placements for multiple years. The first children placed with us were baby sisters who were initially in our care for a month. Four weeks became twelve years and the girls still maintain almost daily contact with us.

Since then we’ve always strived to take in siblings - we believe they should stay together whenever possible.

“Nationally, there is a shortage of over 10,000 carers in the UK with almost 5,000 children living in foster care in Wales alone.”

Did you have any specialist training?

Looking back, we probably could have done with a bit more at the beginning but these days The Council provide a comprehensive training programme with a lot of support for new carers.

All carers receive professional support and training including first aid, child protection and fire safety, with the chance to secure formal qualifications in childcare. There are generous fees and allowances, and incentives such as free leisure access for all the family.

What difference do you think you’ve made to the children’s lives?

We taught every one of our children how to swim and ride a bike and by providing a safe and stable home managed to build confidence and trust resulting in a life that, has been filled with many happy memories.

As a testament to the loving home we offer to children in need, most of the children placed with us have remained in contact and we have become grandparents to a number of their children. Some of our children have even become foster parents themselves.

But its far more than just ‘care’ that we believe we have provided for the children. We have invited them into our homes and hearts, built their confidence, encouraged them in work and play and, most importantly, let them know that they are loved.

What has fostering brought to your lives?

Of course, life doesn’t go smoothly all of the time and there have been trying times as reassuring a child who is without their parents and may have emotional or behavioural issues can sometimes be a challenge. But, quite honestly, fostering has kept us young.

It is such a fulfilling life and we can’t begin to explain how much of a difference it has made to us. ❧ 24 ❧

What advice can you offer someone considering fostering?

Our advice for anyone considering becoming foster carers is to think carefully about the age of the child and the length of time you are willing to foster for. In addition, if you have your own children already it is essential that you treat your own children and your foster children exactly the same.

Whenever a foster child is introduced to a new family,there’s always apprehension on both sides. But once you give them the support and confidence they need, then you’ll be surprised how quickly they accept their new surroundings and begin to trust you. It’s the stepping stone to a more settled lifestyle for them and hopefully a fulfilling life for them and you too.

Ken and Yvonne continue to foster and, as a retired carpenter, Ken teaches woodwork to adults with learning disabilities in addition to training applicants hoping to become fosterers.

With over 500 children in various types of care throughout the County, the Foster Care Service needs more carers.

Rhondda Cynon Taf already boasts 153 foster carers from all walks of life, including single carers, retired couples, families and same sex couples but are continually looking for people to join its team of professional, dedicated foster carers, who earn a living by opening their homes and lives to children and young people.

Rhondda Cynon Taff Fostering Services Unit 3, Floor 7, Pennant House Catherine Street, Pontypridd CF37 2TB Could you foster? Call 0800 0852635 FosterCare@rhondda-cynon-taf.gov.uk www.rhondda-cynon-taf.gov.uk

“Fostering has kept us young - it is such a fulfilling life and we can’t begin to explain how much of a difference it has made to us.”

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The historic town of LLantrisant appears, at first glance, to be a sleepy hamlet perched on a hilltop but scratch its surface and you’ll find a heart that beats to the martial drum of history and a town that is equally vibrant commercially.

LLANTRISANT

FROM HIGH STREET TO SIDE STREETS Just below the main entrance to the Model House Craft & Design Centre stands a statue of Dr William Price, the eccentric surgeon and scholar who paved the way for legalised cremation. It’s history like this that makes Llantrisant one of Rhondda Cynon Taf’s must-visit towns.

Stroll up beyond the Bull Ring and the side streets are lined with charming 18th and early 19th century cottages, with a church and the remains of a castle. The Church, originally founded in the eleventh century, is dedicated to Saints Gwynno, Illtyd and Tyfodwg who are commemorated in the town’s name, Llantrisant means ‘Church of Three Saints’.

I’m not a religious person but as I stand in this beautiful church, I challenge anyone to not be moved. It is beautiful and the stunning stained glass windows are simply breathtaking.

In 1346 the archers of Llantrisant served Edward Prince of Wales in his wars against the French. At the battle of Crecy, it was the superior range of the Welsh longbow which allowed the archers to destroy the French army without ever coming within reach of enemy fire. The grateful monarch then gave a charter to the men of Llantrisant and their descendants, giving them the right to trade freely within the boundaries of the ancient borough and graze cattle on Llantrisant Common free of all taxes in perpetuity. The latter is still honoured to this day under the watchful eye of Llantrisant Town Trust.

1346 is but a landmark in a longer history, the town being one of the oldest in Wales. The main square, the Bull Ring, is a partly cobbled area opening off the main road through the town. Until 1827 the Bull Ring was used for bull baiting, but these days it is dominated by the Model House.

Originally the local workhouse where inmates were expected to lead a ‘model life’, hence the name, the Model House now houses a centre for the production, exhibition and sale of art and crafts of many kinds. Whilst the castle was also built in the thirteenth century by Richard de Clare, Lord of Glamorgan, all that remains is a broken tower and a section of wall, but it is imposing and the Castle Green is a very pleasant place to take the weight off your feet, and is also the site of the Guildhall of 1777, now the headquarters of the Llantrisant Town Trust.

From every street corner you’ll discover new views - whether it’s over Talbot Green which sits at the foot of Llantrisant’s abrupt escarpment, the rolling country of the Vale of Glamorgan or north to the Rhondda.

Talking about Talbot Green, you really are spoilt for choice with a large modern shopping centre showcasing major companies like Marks & Spencer and the famous Leekes of Llantrisant surrounded by acres of car parks - the complete antithesis of the ancient town above. On a clear day, even Cardiff and the Bristol Channel and beyond come in to view - truly magnificent.

Talking about shopping, Llantrisant is a real find if you love independents such as Pink Zebra and The Dairy. There’s also a traditional toy shop and general store and several good pubs and restaurants which serve up traditional food and ales. Ladies who lunch will love The Butchers Arms & Gallery; great coffee, scrummy sandwiches and a superb range of home-made cakes.

“Stroll up beyond the Bull Ring and the side streets are lined with charming 18th and early 19th century cottages.”

Yes Llantrisant is quirky, yes it’s quaint but it’s one of my favourite places and, if you haven’t visited before, you really are missing out on a treat.

For more ideas for great days out visit www.destinationrct.co.uk

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Another busy day at the coal face

Extraordinary people and extraordinary stories R H O N D DA C Y N O N TA F

Take a walk through the past In Rhondda Cynon Taf there are a number of heritage trails around local towns that help the user explore the past.

In Pontypridd the trail starts at the town’s fascinating museum, crosses the famous Edward’s Bridge and visits Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, the James Memorial and the town’s first dwelling which are among the many interesting historical and cultural points along the trail.

Cynon Valley Museum

Aberdare trail tells us about the first National Eisteddfod, a royal visit, a victorious choir and the first leader of the Labour Party. Historic Llantrisant’s tour tells us about the campaign for cremation, a medieval castle and church and the tribulations of the workhouse.

“RCT have published three excellent booklets to accompany the trails.”

Rhondda Cynon Taf council have published three excellent booklets to accompany the trails and these are available from tourism outlets or by calling the number at the bottom of this page. They’ve also combined this (rather cleverly I think) with a Driving Tours booklet so even if you’re not particularly fit or just a bit of a history buff, you needn’t miss out.

More information on these can be found at www.heritagetrailsrct.co.uk

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For more ideas for a great day out visit www.destinationrct.co.uk

OPENING THE DOORS TO OUR HERITAGE The South Wales Valleys are steeped in heritage and Rhondda Cynon Taf provides the perfect place to uncover a rich history from the Romans to the Industrial Revolution.

The South Wales Valleys were gouged out as an ice-age glacier retreated around 10,000 years ago leaving a landscape that would become the Valleys we know today.

Man arrived in the area in the Mesolithic period and the first recorded man-made structure was discovered in 1973 and dated around the Neolithic period. Slowly but surely the Rhondda’s population increased through the Bronze Age and Iron Age and there is definitive evidence of a Roman settlement during the first century.

The fifth century saw the withdrawal of the Romans and through the Dark Ages

that followed a sense of the national identity that exists today developed.

The Normans arrived in the eleventh century but, for several hundred years, the population of the area was relatively sparse.

From 1850 to 1915 the population exploded in the Valleys. In 1840 there were over 160 farms across the area but most vanished because of the mining boom. Records show there being around 950 people living in the area; by 1910 it had increased by over 150,000.

From then on coal and industry created wealth and buoyed the region through the war years until the nationalisation of the British coalmines in 1947.

In the decades that followed, coal output slowed steadily and by 2008 the last deep mine, The Tower Colliery was closed.

While the pits and mines may have closed down, their legacy and the rich cultural heritage of the area lives on in the superb museums and cultural centres across the county.

The Rhondda Heritage Park is one of the finest and this, along with the theatres, chapels and other historical buildings, are open for people to explore for generations to come.

It’s a proud heritage and one that we should all treasure.

Open Doors events 2011 until 30th September A R I C H H E R I TAG E

Opening the doors to our past

“This is a rare opportunity to discover more about the history and events that helped shape this proud region.”

September sees a host of events of heritage events taking place in Rhondda Cynon Taf. Local residents and visitors to the area will have the opportunity to visit a mine manager’s and a former maternity hospital; gain free entry to Rhondda Heritage Park; see behind the scenes at one of the museums; a rare opportunity to see a colliery winding engine working and discover how the coins of the realm are made and much more.

Hirwaun Ironworks

On certain days, members of the public will be invited to share their own history so if you’ve any old photographs in family albums of the featured buildings and areas, you’ll be most welcome, as these can be scanned and included in the Library Service Photographic Archive. ❧ 29 ❧

For more information on the Open Doors event, visit the Events section at www.heritagetrailsrct.co.uk Or request a brochure by calling 01443 744044

WALK THIS WAY

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There are hundreds of beautiful walking routes in the South Wales Valleys for walkers of all abilities.

Valleys life takes a look at what’s out there.

The Valleys are among the most beautiful places to walk in the UK and, with the creation of the Wales Walking Festival, there’s never been a better time to get out there and explore.

The first thing you need to consider before walking anywhere in the Valleys is the right clothing and footwear.

Clothing clearly depends on the weather but the weather can change quickly when we’re out in the countryside so it pays to take some light waterproofs with you just in case.

Stout walking shoes or boots are an essential and it pays to take professional advice. That said, let’s talk about some great walks in Rhondda Cynon Taf. There are many wonderful walks and trails to discover around each bend and over each hill. The network of canals and railways that powered the Industrial Revolution have been transformed into footpaths and trails that tell an incredibly powerful story and the sights and scenery will leave you speechless.

There is plenty on offer to tempt walkers of all abilities - from walks for the serious enthusiast looking to stretch themselves whilst basking in the breathtaking beauty of The Valleys scenery to shorter walks suitable for the less experienced and for all the family to enjoy.

U N T I L 1 8 S E P T E M B E R 2 01 1

The Wales Valleys Walking Festival 2011 The Wales Valleys Walking Festival is a celebration of walking and the outdoor life in the Valleys of South Wales.

Many trails tell the stories of the powerful families that owned the works and the mines. Trails like The Cwm Hafod Trail near Trehafod, The Cynon Valley Trail from Abercynon to Penderyn or the 55 miles (88km) multi-purpose Taff Trail. Stretching between the Cardiff Bay to the Market Town of Brecon.

Running from Brecon to Cardiff and passing through the heart of Rhondda Cynon Taf, the Taff Trail is Wales’ longest established walking and cycling route. Taking in some of south Wales most varied and beautiful landscapes, the route follows rivers and railways and runs through forests. It also links up with Rhondda Cynon Taf’s network of trails, including the Cynon and Rhondda Fach routes, as well as the spectacular Trevithick Trail in neighbouring Merthyr Tydfil.

Several train stations along the Taff Trail make it very easy to access. From Merthyr, the route takes walkers high above the valley, offering sweeping views and passing through former mining communities. The trail runs through pretty woodland as it passes Abercynon, then joins a new section of path alongside the river Taff. Traces of the old Glamorgan canal are hidden in the woodlands along the route.

For more information visit www.destinationrct.co.uk This is the seventh year of this popular walking festival and to celebrate the organisers have included a greater number of walks covering a significantly larger geographical area.

This year they have introduced four new walks in the west and a new longer distance walk.

In the market town of Pontypridd, the Taff Trail passes Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, which has a popular outdoor pool (seasonal opening only) and hosts a range of summer festivals and shows. The trail then leads to Taffs Well and past the landmark fairytale castle of Castell Coch before continuing through Cardiff to the waterfront.

The other important point to raise here is the health benefits; walking is excellent exercise and with obesity and heart disease on the rise in the valleys, walking could be an excellent activity to help keep us all fit and well.

The social benefits are enormous too.

Walking and being interested in local history and heritage is a great way to meet new friends. You could even set up your own walking group. As the song goes, these boots are made for walking... perhaps that’s what we could all do a little more of.

So what are you waiting for? There’s a beautiful world out there waiting to be explored and, with RCT’s guides and websites, you won’t be running out of places to visit any time soon.

There are three grades: Easy Suitable for most levels of fitness.

Some Exertion A moderate level of fitness is required because of hilly sections.

Strenuous A good level of fitness is required because of steep sections.

Reassuringly, all the walks are led by experienced leaders whose local knowledge will almost certainly add to the experience so you’ll be in safe hands. All the walks are free but some have restrictions on numbers so you need to book as early as possible to ensure your place.

The Wales Valleys Walking Festival 01443 838632 www.thevalleys.co.uk

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VALLEYS

Social Life covers launches, parties, functions, exhibitions, charity events, fashion shows, engagements and weddings.

CARDIFF CASTLE

Fareshare Cymru charity dinner The £10,000 raised by the generous guests of Jahan Abedi at a fabulous dinner in Cardiff Castle by The Chameleon Group will help FareShare Cymru fuel vans and pay electricity for freezers so they can fight hunger and tackle food waste.

Xavier Rush, Amanda Protheroe-Thomas, Jahan Abedi

FareShare Cymru redistributes excess food to frontline charities feeding people in need in Cardiff.

Fareshare Cymru 196 Whitchurch Rd, Cardiff CF14 3NB 029 2051 9000 info@faresharecymru.org.uk www.faresharecymru.org.uk Jahan Abedi

Annelies Kruidenier, Matthew Shaw, Reuben Henry, Jody Tozer

Musical Entertainment Band Members Harry (Guitarist) and Beth Zienna Williams (singer)

Zanab Latif, Mahtāb Aalai, Kourosh Aalai

Annelies Kruidenier, Sian Gunney

Charlotte Thompson, Anna Lucas, Lorna Bolton

Ali Tabai, Philipa Summers, Ali Souini, Dr Vida Kolahi

Babak Arabestani and Sarah Arabestani

❧ 32 ❧

All photographs © First Light Photography. Stephen J Rickards.

Jahan Abedi and John Antoniazzi

Amanda Protheroe-Thomas

SOCIAL LIFE CASTLE - UPON ALUN

English-Speaking Union Garden Party

Guests mingling on top lawn

Members of the South Wales Branch of the English-Speaking Union once again enjoyed the hospitality of Sir Geoffrey and Lady Inkin at their Summer Garden Party at Castle - upon Alun.

Derek Morgan, Bepe Villa, Roger Thomas, Alan Meredith

Photos by Keith Morgan

Musical entertainment was provided by the Bridgend Youth Band and Soroptimists International Bridgend Club very quickly sold out on their Tombola stall.

For more information about The English-Speaking Union visit: www.esu.org

Patricia Sadka and Lady Inkin

Guests gather under the marquee

Robert Smith, Carole Kenefick, Julia Thomas, Gerry Price-Stephens

Bridgend Soroptimists and the bar proving to be very popular

Joan Rees, Mary Wheeler, Dr Gwenda Crosby

Cherry Wright, Valerie Rees, Liz Morgan, Graeme Morgan, Carol Marchant :

Bryn Davies, Kathy Davies, Anne Morgan, Derek Morgan, Jill Jacobs

Derek Morgan, Ellen Dally, Jeffrey Morgan, Shirley Allen, Canon Graham Holcombe

Roger Thomas, Hywel Jones, Sir Geoffrey Inkin

Jill Jacobs; Sue Cassidy; Anne Morgan; Patricia Sadka

â?§ 33 â?§

THE LAST WORD One of the best ways to get more business online is to utilise social media: blogging, Facebook and Twitter. But where do you start? Jason Gregory of Type gives Valleys Life the heads up.

Tell us about your business I set up Type recently after moving back to Wales after many years living and working in London and it’s good to be home. Our core business is website design and development. Because the internet is constantly changing we help our clients to make sense of the web, finding new and affordable methods of attracting online traffic and sales. Our additional services include social media training and strategy, search engine optimisation and email marketing.

What difference can you make to a business?

We take the time to understand the business and people that we work with and their online goals. A personal approach means that our clients are looked after from start to finish which includes comprehensive training.

Our clients do not need in-depth knowledge of the web to use the services we provide. We work with market leading software to build our websites, all of which are open source.

This is great for any business as it means you don’t need to pay for the software, and you won’t be dependent on any one web developer and you are the one who retains ownership of the copyright.

Good design is really important and our style is clean, fresh and simple. It’s our mission to make your website look fantastic and perform even better.

Having worked in website design for many years Type are qualified to offer professional and up-to-date advice to our clients. I love what we do and our clients benefit from a pro-active and enthusiastic approach.

What type of clients do you have?

Recently Type has attracted photographers, teachers, and fashion retailers - many with high-street stores who want to expand and sell online.

We are finding that small to medium sized businesses are interested in what we do as they need affordable, scalable solutions that are easy to update and manage.

Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?

Well, I certainly see myself still here in Wales. I would like to gradually expand my team, and spend a little more money on geeky stuff for the business.

The great thing about working online is that you are never entirely sure what opportunities will arise. It also means things don’t get predictable - I kind of like that thought!

Sum yourself up in three words Today, active, maker.

Who would you like to work for?

To be honest I enjoy working with any business that is serious and passionate about what they do. I am lucky to be working with business owners who now depend on the web to develop and expand their services.

Also, some of our clients who had previously overlooked the benefits that the web can bring are now enjoying the results of effective social media strategy and blogging.

What do you do in your downtime?

Ah, well that’s easy, I go surfing, and when there is no surf I go running.

If it’s raining I usually sit in front of the TV until I am asked to do something more useful by my wife! ❧ 34 ❧

Jason Gregory Type 01656 782044 jason@type-business.co.uk www.type-business.co.uk If you’d like to be featured or would like to promote your business in Last Word, please call Jennifer on 0845 180 2345 or email jennifer@valleyslife.co.uk

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01443 730214 01443 682284

Talbot Green Treorchy

01443 223124 01443 773879

www.daviesandjonesoptometrists.co.uk

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01443 775899 029 2051 4089