Lampeter Grapevine Issue 17 Mar 2014

cysylltwch â ni / contact us: lampetergrapevine@gmail.com

Mawrth / March 2014

GRAPEVINE digwyddiadau, newyddion a barn Llambed bob mis / Lampeter’s events, news and views monthly

A D E

See page 29

B

I L A D U L I A D

B U

L D I

L D

I

T

I T in this issue…

regular features ...        

listings events letters small ads & classified town council news ian’s tweet kids in action creative ideas

FREE / AM DDIM

A D E

crossword competition

cookie’s corner  what’s on in the woods 



     

transition llambed development trust director’s report fairtrade fortnight banana quiz traws link cymru climate week food festival feasts cats of pentrefelin



    

local international women’s day celebrations fuel additives men’s sheds crossword competition Biochar get writing

GRAPEVINE no. 17, March 2014 Post: c/o Victoria Hall, Bryn Road, Lampeter, Ceredigion SA48 7EE Email: lampetergrapevine@gmail.com Published by: Transition Llambed Development Trust, Victoria Hall, Bryn Road, Lampeter, SA48 7EE Printed by: TSD Reprographics, Lampeter, on paper from sustainable resources

Croeso / Welcome … to the Grapevine.

When contemplating how to inspire more people to send in articles, it is always difficult to decide what is likely to promote the biggest response, and even harder to choose the themes which might do this. The newsletter team is trying to keep ideas as broad as possible in order to generate a range of viewpoints and angles of interpretation.

This

month

is

partly

a

follow-on

from last

month’s

‘Connections’ theme and at first it might appear that ‘Build it’ is quite a narrow field, but if you take time to think

To list your event, submit an article, ad or letter or to make an enquiry, email: lampetergrapevine@gmail.com or post to address above Please include the reason you are contacting us in the subject box of your email (Ad, Listing, Article, Letter, Enquiry)

about it, the possibilities are vast.

Full guidelines for advertisers & contributors: see grapevine page on www.transitionllambed.co.uk

confidence (see Men’s Sheds, page 25). Communities could

Listings (events & courses) FREE. Display advertising rates: ¼ column £10; ¼ page £25; ½ page £40; full page £70 (back page £80) £25 off ads for one-off public events held in Victoria Hall Classified ads: £2 / 20 wds (min. £2) Therapists' section (max 35 wds): £10 for 6 editions in advance Copy date for April issue: Fri 7 Mar. Theme: ‘Local Heroes’ Circulation: 2,000 copies distributed free in the Lampeter area

locally-focused articles ranging from the Transition Llambed

After all, building doesn’t have to include bricks or stone and mortar. Long Wood is raising a traditional timberframe structure with straw bale walls (read more on page 7), or what about individuals building social networks, friendships,

self-esteem,

build local resilience,

communication

skills

and

productivity and services through

knowledge and skill sharing, campaigns and support (see Development Trust Directors’ Report, page 3 & 4, to Food Feasts, page 23, Fuel Additives, page 26 and a Local Knowledge Competition Cryptic Crossword, page 29). There are also lots of things for the children to build, whether it is knowledge - see page 11 - adventures, page 9 or creativity, page 12.

Of course, you can always build your own picture of what Lampeter is like just from reading the What’s On section Darllen hapus / Happy reading

too!

Angie Martin, Editor

polite reminder: If you're sending us a display advertisement or an article, please send it in the right format - it'll save us (and you) a lot of time.

Please send your photos & artwork in jpg format as we cannot accept PDFs For full guidelines for advertisers & contributors: see grapevine page on www.transitionllambed.co.uk The Newsletter Team We reserve the right to edit all contributions for reasons of space & clarity.

The views expressed in letters and articles are not necessarily those of Transition Llambed Development Trust or the newsletter group.

Other contact details:  Transition Llambed: www.transitionllambed.co.uk email: transitionllambed@gmail.com  Victoria Hall: www.vichall.org.uk To make bookings for Victoria Hall contact: admin@vichall.org.uk or phone/text 07891 632614  People's Market: To book a stall contact: rhydygwinfarm@talktalk.net or ring 01570 471432 2

Directors’ Report: Transition Llambed Development Trust (TLDT) 2012-2013 at Victoria Hall, Lampeter It seems a very long time since our first report, and it's not really surprising since such a lot has happened in this, our second year of running the Hall. Most strikingly we have managed the successful renovation of the toilets and of the kitchen; the new office spaces are almost ready for use, and our conference/seminar room upstairs will very shortly be completed, and in use. Wi-Fi broadband is now available in all areas throughout the Hall. Secondary glazing is almost completed, and a programme of insulation and draughtproofing is well under way. One of the by-products of better insulation and improved glazing, of course, is sound reduction, and we remain mindful of our neighbours, and trust that these improvements amongst others will mean that we do not impinge upon their peace and quiet as the Victoria Hall continues to grow in popularity.

During this period of redevelopment we have of course attempted to keep disruption to a minimum, and we are immensely grateful for the goodwill and patience of all those using the Hall, both those who are already established, and those who are new to us. We continue to attract new business to Lampeter, and the range and variety of offerings in the Victoria Hall has grown over the year. We are seeing more demand for leisurebased activities, music and cultural events, social events, public meetings, corporate seminars and workshops, and information-sharing sessions from a wide variety of public and private sector bodies. We are also grateful for the moral and tangible support of Lampeter Town Council, and of Ceredigion County Council, both of whom not only have encouraged our redevelopment with grant aid, but who both also take bookings within the Victoria Hall for a variety of activities.

One of the most important aspects of this year's developments has been the growth and strengthening of relationships with other bodies in Lampeter, and of partnerships with a range of interesting and important organisations either based in Victoria Hall, or making extensive use of our facilities. The first of these is the Ceredigion Coastal Project, who now run the very successful and popular cafĂŠ for our People's Market on the second and fourth Saturday of each month. They also use the new kitchen extensively as a training base to prepare people of all ages, with a range of learning disabilities, for a variety of roles in catering. Practical experience is gained through the Market and through their own catering service, which is on offer on a friendly, commercial basis if you are planning an event in Victoria Hall. As we develop this relationship further, more activities to mutual benefit are emerging, and it gives a real sense of practical community benefit to see the Hall used so well and so constructively.

We are also the official home in Lampeter for the Workers' Educational Association (WEA), and look forward to co-operating, over the years to come, in hosting the many courses they offer in a wide range of educational topics, as well as their focus on practical skills seminars and workshops with expert tuition. In the news recently as a result of financial events far away, but with impacts close to home, we are also in advanced discussions with the re-invigorated Credit Union regarding setting up a base in Victoria Hall to benefit Lampeter's wider community. We have recently been in discussion to assist future events that greatly benefit Lampeter, and to this end we are strong supporters of the Lampeter Food Festival, and our Chair, Gary Thorogood, is active in the Lampeter Chamber of Trade. You will see more of these exciting, communitybased partnerships in Grapevine in future.

As for Grapevine, the Trust continues to be delighted with its contribution to Lampeter life. Its editorial and distribution teams, all volunteers of course, have produced a newsletter that is now an essential part of Lampeter's fabric; full of news, articles, advertisements for local services, and a regular table of local events.

Advertising revenue has increased considerably during this year, and that is reflected in greater demand for copies, and a larger print run. Volunteers of course, including the Trust's Directors, form the lifeblood of a community-based Trust such as ours and so it is with grateful thanks that the Directors acknowledge the sterling efforts of all volunteers across a wide range of activity during this year. Not only does this bring together interesting and different elements of our community, but it assists in keeping costs to a minimum, particularly at a time of significant expenditure on the Hall itself.

3

Although we have signalled the headline renovations to the Hall, behind the scenes that has also meant upgrading the electrical supply and distribution; improvements to plumbing; repairing and renewing woodwork prior to secondary glazing; painting and decorating; the creation of appropriate and sufficient storage space, and clearing the attic space of years of accumulated nesting material, to the considerable annoyance of the multitude of rooks that had come to call it home! Given that we are not quite finished our first phase of refurbishment, we shall be reassessing future projects for the coming year, which will include further improvements to the heating system and its controls, sound and lighting for the stage, and improved access to all areas of the building.

None of our improvements would have been possible without the generous support of Lampeter Town Council, Ceredigion County Council, the Ceredigion Community Fund and the European Social Fund administered through Ceredigion C C. Meinir Davies of Ceredigion's Community Fund, and Maria Wilding at the European Social Fund, have been particularly helpful with their very professional and friendly advice and guidance, and we continue to enjoy strong support from Andrew Harries, Principal Estates Officer at Ceredigion C C as we have negotiated our way with his permission through Planning and Building Control to achieve our renovations. In keeping with our professed intent to keep as much as possible 'local', all refurbishment and renovation has been carried out by local craftsmen and companies, and even in the case of the kitchen, a specialist refit, we were able to employ a nationally-acclaimed company from Cardiff.

The excitement of the new has not diminished our commitment to established elements of life in the Hall. The People's Market continues to thrive and with the added attraction of the Coastal Café we are seeing greater footfall, and better returns for our stallholders. We do need your support for this important element of local food and produce however, and we look forward to welcoming you in even greater numbers as this year progresses. The Lampeter Youth Theatre and Stage School has had a magnificent year and continues to attract talented children (and their parents), not only to their regular sessions but also to their performances in the Victoria Hall and further afield.To all those who have made use of our facilities this year we extend our thanks, and trust that we can continue, as planned, to improve these facilities on your behalf in this coming year.

Our accounts for the year reflect the work that has taken place within the Hall: on an increased revenue income of £19,746 (£15,105 in 2012) we have generated an operating surplus of £1,625 (£3,218 in 2012).

This reflects not only the increased use of the Hall, but also the degree to which the Trust has made contributions to the refurbishments which were not covered by grants. In total our accounts show that over the year, £81,223 was expended on improvements, and of course there are implications here for depreciation etc, which have made this year's account somewhat more complicated. We are therefore extremely grateful for Jenny Regan's wise counsel over the year, and for her professional expertise as the Trust's Accountant.

The Trust continues to maintain all necessary insurances, licences and certificates, and wherever it is appropriate, users of the Hall's facilities will carry their own.

Finally I should like to draw attention to a thread that has been ever-present in our lease of Victoria Hall, a thread that links us back to Transition. We initially undertook this lease to make a positive contribution to this already vibrant community, but also we wished to demonstrate through our actions that we could make a difference to the debate on climate change. As time and finances have permitted, we have incorporated into the Hall refurbishment as many environmentally viable elements as possible, as many locally-sourced products as possible, as much local food as possible, and as many ethical products as possible. Hence, for example, as soon as we could manage the change, we have committed to Ecotricity for both gas and electricity in the Hall. Many of the other aspects of this commitment are by definition hidden, insulation for instance. We should be delighted to walk you through them; why not come on a People's Market day?

I trust that by this time next year we shall have even more exciting developments to report.

Until then I invite you to keep up to date with events here and throughout the Lampeter area by browsing the Grapevine - you read it here first! Thanks to you all for your continuing warm support.

Derek Marshall Treasurer, on behalf of the Directors, Transition Llambed Development Trust 4

LETTERS

Obituary:

grapevine, victoria hall, bryn road, lampeter SA48 7EE email: lampetergrapevine@gmail.com

SONIA WARD

The Grapevine is a fantastic publication and certainly helps business and communities in the Lampeter area.

With regard to "Cookie's Corner" in the February edition, could you please clarify the article on real bread, and the reason why the Briwsion, Mark Lane and Popty bakeries located in the town are not mentioned, as they also produce a wonderful quality of bread.

Jennifer Thomas Thank you for your comments and for highlighting more of the local suppliers of quality produce.

I believe that the article was not intentionally trying to omit these local bakeries but was just showing a small example of the range of alternatives on offer.

Eds.

1970 - 2014 The Grapevine would like to pay belated tributes to Sonia Ward, a widely-known and extremely well-loved Health Visitor for Lampeter who lost her long battle with cancer on 17 January.

Dear All There is a WaterAid group starting in Lampeter. As you'll know, WaterAid is a wonderful organisation whose vision is of a world where everyone has access to safe water and sanitation. To this end, they raise money for toilet facilities, safe water, improved hygiene and sanitation in poorer communities in the world where these do not exist.

Did you know that one in three women and teenagers in the world do not have access to adequate toilet facilities?

We'd like more people to join the core group to get started here. If you'd like more information about WaterAid, please visit www.wateraid.org And if you'd like to join us, please contact me on 01570 218138 or 07940 375147.

Thanks. Shân Rees

She was an amazing person loved by her family, friends and colleagues alike. A loving and devoted mother, sister and daughter, Sonia will be sorely missed by everyone.

Sonia’s energy, enthusiasm and spirit for life was truly infectious - she was a real inspiration. She was a very special woman with such a big heart, full of love for everyone. She touched the lives of so many people and made a massive difference to us all. Never was anything too much trouble: Sonia would happily go out of her way to help, whatever our individual needs.

Copy Deadline: April issue Fri 7 March Theme: ‘Local Heroes’

Hundreds of people attended Sonia’s funeral at Aberystwyth Crematorium on 27 January, a huge testament to the extremely high regard in which she was held by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. We will all miss her dearly.

Lampeter Museum

Rest in Peace Sonia.

Request for display items

Angie Martin

If you have some special memories of Sonia that

Hanes Llambed would be pleased to hear from anyone who has anything of historical interest about Lampeter, which they would be happy to donate or loan to the Museum.

you would like to share, then please get in touch as we are planning to celebrate her life with an article in the next Grapevine as part of the

Please ring 01570 422769

‘Local Heroes’ theme. Many Thanks. Eds. 5

The Precept for the next Financial Year It was unanimously agreed that the Precept for the next financial year would remain at the same figure as the previous year, i.e. at £41,000. This represents a payment of £46.25 p.a. and 89p per week for the Band D rate-payer. Allowing for inflation (at 2%), this figure represents a decrease for the Lampeter rate-payer.

It was reported that the Town Council could be facing financial challenges in the future, as Britain is facing severe public spending cuts and is currently in recession.

Presentation - Lampeter/Bore Community Carbon Link A presentation was received from Mr Ru Hartwell, Director of the CCL, and Abbey Roberts, in relation to the Lampeter/Bore Community Carbon Link (CCL) in November, and the meeting resolved to endorse the “Wales/Kenya Forest Expedition 2014”. The venture, supported by 12 local partners and funded by the Welsh Government, will enable 14 young people from Ceredigion to visit the “climate change frontline” in Africa, and work with the farming community of Bore to build a Forest Centre.

Mr Hartwell stated that tropical forests are critical in fighting climate change and this expedition would illustrate how young Welsh volunteers could address sustainability issues in a real and practical way, as well as providing a unique opportunity for them to experience another culture and broaden their horizons.

Pennu’r Praesept ar gyfer y flwyddyn ariannol nesaf penderfynwyd trwy bleidlais unfrydol i gadw lefel y Praesept yr un peth yn ystod y flwyddyn ariannol nesaf sef £41,000 sy’n cynrychioli tâl o £46.25 y flwyddyn ac 89ceiniog yr wythnos ar gyfer Treth Dalwr Band D. Y mae’r tâl yn is ar gyfer TrethDalwr Llanbedr PS wrth ystyried chwyddiant (@2%). Adroddwyd y gallai’r Cyngor Tref wynebu herion ariannol yn ystod y dyfodol, gan fod Prydain yn wynebu toriadau aruthrol parthed gwariant cyhoeddus ac oherwydd y ddirwasgiad.

Cyflwyniad – cysylltiad carbon cymunedau Llambed/Bore Derbyniwyd cyflwynaid gan Mr Ru Hartwell ac Abbey Roberts parthed y Cysylltiad-Carbon Cymunedau Llambed/Bore (CCC). Penderfynwyd cymeradwyo’r prosiect Cymru/Kenya Coedwig Alldaith 2014 ac ysgrifennu llythyr o gefnogaeth at Mr Ru Hartwell, Cyfarwyddwr CCC. Y mae’r fenter ar y cyd a ariannwyd gan y Cynulliad Cenedlaethol Cymru wedi derbyn cymeradwyaeth 12 o bartneriaid lleol. Bydd y Prosiect sy’n ymwneud â’r amgylchedd yn gyfle i 14 bobl ieuainc Ceredigion ymweld â lle blaenllaw, sy’n dioddef canlyniad newid hinsawdd yn yr Affrig a chynorthwyo eu cyfoedion Kenya o fewn y gymuned Bore, i adeiladu Canolfan Goedwig.

Roedd Mr Hartwell o’r farn bod yr ymweliad yn gyfle unigryw i’r bobl ieuainc i brofi diwylliant gwahanol a fydd yn ymestyn eu gorwelion wrth iddynt amgyffred bywyd heriol yr Affrig. Ar yr un pryd byddant yn estyn help llaw i gymuned dlawd amaethyddol wrth iddi ymroi i geisio addasu i effaith newid hinsawdd. Soniwyd bod fforestydd glaw y trofannau yn allweddol er mwyn brywdro newid hinsawdd a dengys yr alldaith sut y gall gwirfoddolwyr ieuainc Cymreig ymdrin â materion cynaliadwy mewn ffordd real ac ymarferol.

Gŵyl Dylan Thomas 2014 Bu i’r Gyngh. Dafis gyfeirio at Ŵyl Dylan Thomas 2014 a dywedodd y fyddai’n werth chweil llunio rhaglen. Gallai’r digwyddiad ddenu pobl i’r dref.

Dylan Thomas Festival 2014 Cllr Dafis drew reference to the Dylan Thomas Festival of 2014 and said it would be worthwhile to draft a programme. This event could draw people to the town.

6

COEDWIG GYMUNEDOL LONG WOOD COMMUNITY WOODLAND skills of a sustainable future.

Being a community project, we are keen for locals to get involved in our work and the build is no exception.

Over the coming weeks, local craftsman Jamie Miller, our main contractor, will be looking for volunteers to join his team for a series of sessions including straw bale walling, applying hempcrete, shingle making and cladding. Maybe you would like more hands-on experience using such materials, or you might be thinking of a future green build of your own? If you would like to know more then please get in touch with Long Wood (contact details below).

The new Visitor Centre: a first for Ceredigion This month’s theme of 'Build It' is one that we certainly have covered up here at Long Wood.

Progress on the visitor centre is continuing, with the log raft foundations complete, the frame raised and the site looking much more impressive after the long process of hand-carving the joints for the frame’s components over the winter. The exciting thing about this build is that it is constructed almost completely (98%) from timber sourced from within Long Wood itself.

This is the first time that a public building has been built in the county using such materials and methods (specifically the roundwood frame), so we hope that this project will pave the way for those wanting to begin their own green builds using roundwood timber frames. Having this project pass through planning permission and building regulations sets a precedent which others can follow.

The frame is made from Larch and Douglas Fir, with joints and oak pegs all made by hand. The walls will be a straw bale build, covered with hempcrete and lime, giving the building a high insulation rating.

The modern building industry is one of high energy and high waste, with mass-produced materials being transported vast distances. Roundwood timber framing is an alternative technique which considers building methods which are low-impact, locally sourced and workforce friendly. Roundwood framing allows us to use materials straight from the forest and use natural shapes found within the timber, so it does not need much mechanised processing.

This building should be a testament to what can be achieved using the natural materials around us to produce something that is inspiring, beautiful and low-impact.

Looking ahead at the wider picture, the building of dwellings and public spaces from timber that we have An example of Roundwood framing managed in our

by Jamie Miller forests are the

What’s On in the Woods On Saturday 15 March we will be hosting Forest to Frame: Green Building at Long Wood. This FREE event will be a guided tour of the progress so far on the visitor centre, showing off the roundwood timber frame and giving opportunities to interact with the craftsman and ask your questions. The tour also includes a look at Long Wood’s mobile sawmill in action at our wood yard, showcasing our range of timber products. This will especially appeal to anyone interested in green building and the possibilities of locally-sourced timber. It will be in our main car park, between Llangybi and Llanfair Clydogau. Call ahead for more info.

James Kendall This month’s FREE event Forest to Frame: Green Building at Long Wood Saturday 15 March 10am-1pm

Join our mailing list or find us on Facebook. Contact: 07557 386755 or info@longwood-lampeter.org.uk 7

Biochar

The wind is howling, the rain lashing down, tr ees are b eing buffeted, communities battered, and local services and infrastructure torn to shreds by yet another round of turbulent storms. All around we see, hear and experience the devastation and power of nature.

February 2nd was Imbolc, a day to celebrate and honour Brigid, the goddess of poets and warriors, and the bane of landlords. This was appropriate, as I had been asked to come to the People's Kitchen to talk about my work in trying to live in this industrialised capitalist civilisation, in ways which begin to redress some of the environmental injustices we perpetrate against the Earth and against so much life on the Earth.

So many human cultures have lived, and some still do live, in ways which benefit life on Earth, so why is it so difficult for us to do so? Rather than killing sustainable cultures in order to grab their land, we really ought to be learning from them.

Inspired by some of the practices of various cultures and civilisations which have lived sustainably for many thousands of years, I choose to produce food and energy in ways that are the reverse of the ways of most people. I run a small market garden near Swansea and have developed indoor wood-burning stove systems which produce biochar. Biochar is charcoal produced with the intent of adding it to soil.

There are two reasons for wanting to add biochar to soil: to mitigate climate change and to improve soil structure.

Unlike wood and other organic matter, biochar does not readily decompose in the soil. As it is mostly made from carbon, that carbon becomes locked into the soil.

Biochar can be used to build the aggregate properties of soil. It can help to bind soil particles, minerals and organic matter to prevent their release as pollution and to prevent soil degradation and erosion.

Most food and energy is produced in ways which release carbon and other pollutants into the sky.

Biochar stove systems allow me to produce energy in ways which stabilise the carbon in a piece of wood, and then lock that carbon in soil. This can result in other organic matter being locked into soil, by improving the aggregate properties of the soil.

Rather than living frugally and cutting back, the more food and energy I produce on my market garden, the more I build soil and reverse the causes of climate change. I wish more people would do the same.

I had a great Imbolc, and enjoyed trying to get some of these ideas across to a full room of interested, intelligent, pro-active people. Thank you. I hope some of the people who came will be inspired to try to manage their gardens, allotments, farms or window boxes in ways which would make Brigid proud.

Ed Revill www.soil-carbon-regeneration.co.uk More info in Ed’s articles in the last two issues (78 and 79) of Permaculture Magazine.

Yet there are some people out there who still deny that these incredible circumstances could have anything at all to do with man-made Climate Change! How is this possible?

I’m not a scientist, meteorologist, or climate expert, but I do know that these strengthening storms resulting in disaster zones cropping up over more and more of the UK seem to be happening on an increasingly regular basis, and they appear to be getting more and more extreme!

Wouldn’t it be good to hear how politicians and other authorities are trying to communicate, share and prepare the country for the long term, instead of just trying to lay the blame on each other for what is happening.

Surely we should be looking at the bigger picture to see what interventions could really make a difference across the whole of the UK, and then working at a local level to do what is right for each area?

It may take more than dredging a few rivers or building more flood barriers, but I’m sure there are experts out there who have insightful ideas that build on what is good for the environment as well as potential plans which would combat the obvious effects of our changing climate.

Perhaps it is time for real change - time to look at the whole of our land-use and landmanagement systems so that we can work more with nature rather than against it.

What do you think?

Climate Week is a supercharged national occasion that offers an annual renewal of our ambition and confidence to combat climate change. It is for everyone wanting to do their bit to protect our planet and create a secure future. Many positive steps are already being taken in workplaces and communities, from small improvements to big innovations.

This is your chance to be inspired! www.climateweek.com 8

All are welcome to come to the next public meeting to discuss the proposed campaign and hopefully offer their help and support.

David Morgan

Rail Link Campaign News

The Steering Group for the railway campaign met on February 6.

After a lively discussion and selection of a "shortlist" of six, the name

Next Public Meeting: Thursday 20 February 6-7pm

"TRAWS LINK CYMRU"

Victoria Hall, Lampeter

was recommended as the new campaign name.

There was also discussion of a document outlining the proposed structure of the campaign, to include setting up local groups along the route, organising petitions and carrying out a survey of the line.

For further details of this and future meetings contact: transitionllambed@gmail.com

Why not get out and about for an adventure over half term or maybe plan a special walk for Mother’s Day and see what Mother Nature has in store!

How many of these clues to Spring have you spotted already?

Could you write a poem or story about your adventures? Send it to lampetergrapevine@gmail.com

Hazel catkins

Snowdrops

Elder budburst

Primroses

Dark red buds & first trees to sprout leaves

Birds building nests

Bird song 9

Bluebell shoots

Lesser celandine Shiny yellow flowers & heart-shaped leaves

Frogspawn

LET’S GO BANANAS!

Photo: Eduardo Martino, Courtesy of Fairtrade.org.uk

Over the past 10 years, the average price of a banana in the UK has nearly halved, but the cost of production has doubled!

Despite seeing more Fairtrade bananas than ever before in the UK, they still only account for 1 in every 3 sold.

There is huge pressure from the supermarkets to keep prices low and this is severely affecting the lives of the farmers at the start of the supply chain.

The focus for Fairtrade Fortnight is the special ‘Make Bananas Fair’ campaign which is aiming to transform the banana industry and ensure that the millions of struggling small scale banana farmers and workers get a fair deal.

It is time for something to change, so this year we are all being encouraged to ‘Stick with Foncho’ A 44-year-old farmer from Columbia, Foncho is passionate about many things including football, cinema, spending time with his family and of course bananas! A banana farmer, ever since he inherited the small plot of land from his father, who farmed it before him, Foncho cares deeply about his farm and his bananas, getting up at 4am every day and spending almost 12 hours looking after his banana plants. His livelihood depends on them and without these he would struggle to find other work or provide for his family.

“They are part of me. They need love. I care for them - because they take care of me.”

Most of Foncho’s bananas are Fairtrade which means that he gets the Fairtrade price for them. He lives with his family in town which means his son can go to school; he has saved up the extra money for a motorbike and can now ride the 20 minutes to his farm each morning. Foncho is lucky compared to other small scale banana growers as bananas are now bought and sold so cheaply in the UK that many of the farmers and workers are being trapped in poverty. Many still can’t afford to put enough food on the table for their families, or provide the basics of education or healthcare. Too many are still getting hurt using dangerous chemicals and are suffering through continual work in difficult conditions. Fairtrade means that Foncho now has the things he needs to keep everyone safe on his small farm. Fairtrade is making a real difference to the lives of over 18,000 banana farmers, workers and their communities in 11 countries across three continents. There is still much work to do to ensure that all small-scale local banana farmers and workers get a fair deal. ’Make Bananas Fair’ is aiming to deliver this.

So why not join the campaign, sign the petition and help call for an investigation into unfair supermarket pricing practices and maybe together we can make bananas fair! - http://foncho.fairtrade.org.uk/#petition For more information visit: www.fairtrade.org.uk Did you know that Lampeter is a Fairtrade Town? - Perhaps as part of Transition Llambed we should start our own campaign to get a fair deal for all our own local food producers. What do you think?

10

11 Answers Round 1: 1. Bananas! but it’s True! 2. Bonkers! Bananas grow as a plant. They are actually a herb! 3. Bonkers! All banana plantations and small farms can become Fairtrade as long as they can meet the Fairtrade standards! 4. Bananas! 80% of bananas in the UK are sold in supermarkets! 5. Bananas! But it’s True!

Round 2: 1. 5 Billion. 2. Purple Bananas. 3. Asia, but bananas are not grown in many parts of the world, including India, South America and Thailand.

Mother’s Day build !

Stuck for what to get for Mother’s Day? Short of pocket money to buy real flowers?

Then this idea might be perfect for you … it’s a lot cheaper and will definitely make your mother smile!

Give it a go!

You will need: An assortment of Lego bricks /parts Base plate Imagination & patience What to Do Select bricks or parts which can be built into the different elements of a flower petals, stamen (middle of the flower), stalk and leaves You could even create the vase or pot too - Let your imagination run wild Present the finished item as a gift on Mother’s Day Don’t forget to take a photo and send it to lampetergrapevine@gmail.com then we can print some in next issue

12

CELLAN MILLENNIUM HALL

Get writing!

CLASSES AND GROUPS Classes subject to change: please check www.cellanmillenniumhall.co.uk for updates & contact details.

See our website What’s On page for one-off events

Would you like to write something for the Grapevine?

It could be an idea to share with other readers; a favourite recipe; a persuasive campaign letter; a favourite local walk or a short story.

MONDAY Line Dancing 7-10pm Lunch Club 11.30-2pm (10 Mar)

If you like the idea of writing for a newsletter or magazine but haven’t done it before, a short course might be a good place to get started.

The course will help you organise your ideas and give you the skills and confidence to write about something you feel passionate about. It could be the start of a brand new career!

TUESDAY Lampeter Home Education Group 12-5pm Qi Gong 6-7pm Tai Chi 7-8pm Beekeepers 2nd Tues of month, 8pm

If you are employed or self-employed, this course, to be held in Lampeter, is absolutely free and leads to a level 1 or Level 2 qualification (equivalent to GCSE).

WEDNESDAY Table Tennis 10-12.00 noon Quilting Club 12.30-4pm Yoga 5.30-7pm

Interested in finding out more? Please get in touch and I will let you know as soon as course dates have been finalised.

THURSDAY Village Improvement Society Cttee1st Thurs of month 7pm W.I. 2nd Thurs of month 7.30pm

This course is funded by the Regional Essential Skills Project which aims to provide employed and self-employed people with opportunities to develop their literacy, numeracy, ESOL and computer skills.

Sessions are small, informal and entirely free. If you are interested in similar courses or shorter, one-day workshops available locally through the RES Project, please get in touch and I will keep you informed of all forthcoming events.

Peter Gwynne Regional Essential Skills Development worker, WEA Cymru Mobile: 07788 314327 peter.gwynne@weacymru.org.uk

FRIDAY Art Group 10am–1pm Film Night fortnightly 7.15pm (see p20 for full details) SATURDAY Seventh Day Adventists, fortnightly 10.15am-3.15pm.

Please contact Joy beforehand, 01550 740353 Copy Deadline: Friday 7 March lampetergrapevine@gmail.com

Sat

Lampeter Town RFC Senior Men’s 1st XV

Saints

H

Sat

22

Feb

2.30

Furnace Utd

A

Sat

22

Feb

2.30

Cardigan

H

Sat

1

Mar

2.30

Trimsaran

H

Sat

1

Mar

2.30

Tenby

A

Sat

22

Mar

2.30

Swansea Uplands

H

Sat

22

Mar

2.30

Newport Pembs

H

Sat

29

Mar

2.30

Nantgaredig

A

Sat

29

Mar

2.30

Aberystwyth

A

Sat

5

Apr

2.30

Fishguard

H

Sat

5

Apr

2.30

Pembroke

H

Sat

12

Apr

2.30

Penybanc

A

Sat

12

Apr

2.30

Tenby

13

Victoria Hall: regular activities and classes Bryn Road, Lampeter SA48 7EE To book the Victoria Hall phone: 07891 632614 Email: admin@vichall.org.uk Community groups & local small-scale commercial: Large hall £12/hour; Small hall £7/hour; whole building £18/hour. We will soon have office space, committee room and small therapy/classroom.

See www.vichall.org.uk for more details.

Day

Weekly (W) Fortnightly (F) Monthly (M)

Time

Activity / Class

Contact

Tuesday

W

1-2pm & 6-7pm

W Welcoming newcomers W

Name

Number

New American Tribal Style Bellydancing

Wendy Steele

01570 472921, 07752 478779

4.305.30pm

LYTSS: Lampeter Youth Theatre & Stage School

Annie May

01570 423080

7-8pm

Zumba New class

Sue White

07813 659809

W

10-1pm

Hafan Cymru ‘Moving on Club’ Helping you get back to work

Becky Turton

07875 272834

5 & 19 Mar

24.30pm

Young at Heart

W

7-8pm

Zumba keep fit session

Louise Evans

07584 199372

W

1-3pm

Welsh classes

Meryl Evans

01545 572715

W

6.307.30pm

Line Dancing: New class for beginners

Heather Boothby

01570 493458

M 3rd Thur each month

7-9pm

Transition Llambed ‘Big Gathering’

W

10-12pm

Welsh classes

Meryl Evans

01545 572715

W

4.306.30pm

LYTSS: Lampeter Youth Theatre & Stage School

Annie May

01570 423080

Saturday

2nd & 4th Sat each month

10-1pm

People’s Market

Sunday

W

10-7pm

Lampeter Evangelical Church

Gareth Jones at the Mustard Seed café

01570 423344

16 Mar

7-10pm

Custard Queens WI

Jen Pink

07540 383835

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

14

Sandwiches & social for the wiser folk of Lampeter

A chance for all those interested in/involved with Transition Llambed to plan and co-ordinate activities. Everyone welcome!

Local food, produce and crafts. Plus café, live music and other attractions

what’s going on listings are free. send details of your event to lampetergrapevine@gmail.com

courses_______________ Denmark Farm Conservation Centre, Betws Bledrws Wed 5 Mar: A Year in the Polytunnel Fri 7-Sun 9 Mar: Plant Diversity Wed 12 Mar: Growing a Nectar Bar Planting for Pollinators Sat 15 Mar: Plan your Plot & Seed Selection Wed 19 Mar: Intro to Composting Fri 21-Sun 23 Mar: Outdoor Digital Photography Wed 26 Mar: Growing Unusuals & Growing in Small Spaces Sun 30 Mar & Sun 27 April: Nature into Art: Porcelain Paper Clay MicroSculptures Fri 4-Sun 6 April: Understanding Amphibians Fri 18 April: Chocolate Egg Creations Fri 18 April: Big Easter Bunny Nature Trail & Egg Hunt Sun 20 April: Big Birdsong Brunch For further details: 01570 493358, www.denmarkfarm.org.uk Forest Gardening, Permaculture and Wildlife Gardening Short courses and inspirational site visits! For more info and 2014 dates, Contact Angie: 01974 831300, info@purposefulpermaculture.co.uk Bike Demonstrations at People’s Market, Victoria Hall, every 2nd and 4th Saturday of month.

Topics including: aspects of owning folding bikes, information on normal and electric bikes, fold-ability, weights, maintenance, gears, brakes, wheels and tyres as well as information on new and recycled bikes and workshops. Literature available on various bike related subjects. Contact: Milly, 07583 248387, millypeds@gmail.com Lampeter & District Beekeepers' Association: Taster Day for anyone interested in becoming a beekeeper.

Sat 12 April, 10am-4pm, Cellan Hall. £15 per person, includes refreshments. Phone 01570 480571 to book.

Smallholders and Landowners: bespoke conservation advice; create your own nature reserve! Contact: Angie, 01974 831300, info@purposefulpermaculture.co.uk

creative_______________ Cellan Quilters - Knit, Natter and Sew, Wednesdays 12noon-4pm, Cellan Hall. £10 per month or £4 drop-in fee. Informal group for all who enjoy quilting, sewing, knitting,

socialising - & female chatter? All ages, all abilities welcome. Contact: Amanda, 01570 421338.

Spinning Lessons with Ann Fisher Rhodes at Ffarmers Neuadd Bro Fana/Village Hall. Improvers every Wednesday 1.30-3.30, £8. Now taking names for the next beginner sessions. Contact Ann 01558 650760, www.spinwise.co.uk spinwise.uk@btinternet Jewellery Making Course for Beginners: basic jewellery-making skills. Held in the local Ceredigion area, courses and times to be agreed by mutual arrangement.

Contact: Peter, 07984 883453.

Jewellery Making Workshop. Thur 27 Feb, 6.30-8.30pm. Lampeter. £15 per person, £12 students, £24 for two friends booking together, all materials provided! Limited spaces, book through Creative Cove, Lampeter ring 01570 421985 or see us in the shop.

events ________________ People's Kitchen. Sun 2 March, 2pm, Llanfair Clydogau Village Hall.

Join us for a delicious vegan meal and friendly social.

Coedwig Gymunedol Long Wood Community Woodland:  Open Public Meeting. Mon 3 Mar, 7.30-8pm at St. Thomas’ Church, Lampeter. The Long Wood team welcome queries, questions and ideas from the public at this monthly open forum. Just drop in.  Woodland Wednesdays. Join Sarah, our Warden, for regular volunteering sessions at Long Wood every Wednesday. Develop your wood skills and feel the benefit of working in this beautiful environment.

No experience required; training provided for these supervised sessions. Meet 10am, in our car park (Llangybi end). Town pick -up available on request. Contact: 07557 386755, info@longwood-lampeter.org.uk * Forest to Frame: Green Building at Long Wood. Sat 15 March, 10am1pm. FREE event. Long Wood staff and local craftsman Jamie Miller will give a guided tour of the progress so far on the new visitor centre, showing off the roundwood timber frame. Plus a look at Long Wood’s mobile sawmill in action at our timber yard, producing local timber. Contact: 07557 386755, 15

info@longwood-lampeter.org.uk Archaeology, History and Anthropology Society open events at TSD University, Lampeter. All welcome.

Thu 6 Mar, 6.30pm, room LR1. Huw Bowen: The business of empire: Welsh nabobs and the making of money in the British empire, c.17601830 Thu 20 Mar, 6.30pm, the Theatre.

Paul Bahn: Survey of all the latest finds in Ice Age art in the world (many unpublished) Thur 24 April, 6.30pm, LR1. Robert Wallis: Re-examination of prehistoric stone 'wrist guards' as evidence for falconry in later prehistoric Britain More details on www.facebook.com/ groups/AntharchSoc/?fref=ts or contact: archanthtsdlamp@gmail.com Research Seminar Series of the School of Theology, Religious Studies and Islamic Studies.

Founder's Library, Lampeter campus, 4 pm. * Wed 5 Mar. Dr Jenny ReadHeimerdinger: A rigged vote in pious guise? The Apostles' choice for the replacement for Judas. * Wed 23 April Dr Margaret Gouin's lecture Buddhism Comes West is postponed/cancelled. Details of alternative lecture TBC. * Wed 14 May. Dr David Rousseau: Near-death experiences and the mind-body relationship: a systemstheoretical approach.

Feisty and Female, a 'performance picnic’ to celebrate International Women’s Day. Sat 8 March, 12 noon4pm, Lampeter University Arts Hall.

Free event. Bring a song or poem, and food to share.

Faculty of Humanities Research Lecture Group: lectures in Founder’s Library, Old Building, University of Wales TSD. Mon 17 Mar, 5pm: Prof.

Brian Arkins (National Uni. of Ireland, Galway): Hellenising Ireland: Greek Themes in Yeats.

Scientific and Medical Network Lampeter and West Wales Group.

Two-day presentation, Sat 15 and Sun 16 March, Founder’s Library, University of Wales TSD. Illustrated talks by Dr Sarah Boss: The Female Body in the Sacred Art of Western Europe. Details: Eric Franklin, 01570 471367, erf678@gmail.com or see posters around town.

events contd _____________ kids___________________ Ras Gŵyl Dewi 10k road race, Sun 9 March. Llanddewi Brefi Village Hall.

Adult Race: 10km (15+) Junior races/wheelchair run: 2km (under 9), 3km (9&10), 4km (11 & 12), 5km(13 & 14). More info on Facebook.

Lampeter Town Twinning Cheese and Wine Evening. Fri 14 March, 79pm, St Peter's Church Hall Lampeter.

Come and enjoy!

Cymdeithas Hanes Llambed: Tue 18 March, 7.30pm, Old Hall, Lampeter University. Selwyn Walters will speak on Creating a Museum in Lampeter.

Croeso i bawb/all welcome.

NB we are now in the process of collecting artefacts for the Museum, and appeal to the public for materials - either to be donated, or given on shortterm loan. Please contact Selwyn Walters, selwynwalters@btinternet.com Bingo at Llangybi Memorial Hall, Fri 28 Feb, 8pm. Croeso I bawb/all welcome.

health & well-being courses & classes _______ Assertion Skills. Build confidence; learn to believe in yourself; create clear boundaries; create clear goals; recognise your uniqueness; succeed in your chosen path; say no when you need to. Trained with Redwood Institute, author of ‘Assertion Training: How to be who you really are.’ Build Confidence to Sound your Note in the World: 6-week course (12 hours) starts February in Lampeter.

For course details or to set up a course, contact: Shân, 01570 218138, 07940 375147, www.livingexcellently.co.uk Yoga classes suitable for all, with an Iyengar-trained teacher: Mon 6.30-8pm Vic Hall, Lan-las Farm Tues 10-11.30am Lan-Las Farm Weds 5.30-7pm Tregaron Chapel Vestry Thurs 6-7.30pm Ffarmers Village Hall.

Contact: Cathy Crick Stanton, 01570 421144, 07748 031614, cathycrick@hotmail.co.uk Mulberry Bush Wholefoods events to celebrate their 40th anniversary (for more details see page 31).

Thur 20 Feb, 9.30-3pm: Herbal Remedies with Earle Logan from A. Vogel.

Sat 15 Mar, from 10.30am Nutritionist Vicky Perks, on all aspects of Digestive Care.

Sat 20 Mar, 6.30pm in café, Nutritionist Vicky Perks gives talk on ‘Digestive Health’

"Lampeter Little Ones" is a Facebook group for the parents of pre-schoolers in the Lampeter area. If you're wondering what groups and activities are available for your baby or toddler, then please join up and have a look: www.facebook.com/groups/ lampeterlittleones Lampeter Youth Theatre and Stage School term started 14 Jan, ends Fri 21 March. New Entrant classes: Tuesdays 4.30-5.30pm. Intermediate c las s es : Frida ys 4.3 0 - 5.30pm .

Advanced classes: Fridays 4.306.30pm. Contact: Annie May 01570 423080, annie@themay.co.uk Little M’zzz indoor soft play centre, Llanybydder (in old church Hall near Evans Bros market). Open Mon, Thurs, Fri, Sat & Sun 10am-6pm, 7 days a week in school holidays.

Birthday Party bookings welcome.

Tasty menu & free WiFi. Contact: 01570 480268, www.littlemzzz.co.uk NCT 'Move and Groove' is a music and movement group for pre-schoolers. Every Tuesday, 10am in the Catherine Stott room, upstairs in Lampeter Students' Union. Let your little one do what comes naturally by making noise and not staying still!

Playsessions on Maes y Deri playing field every 3rd Sunday each month throughout the year, 11am-3.30pm, with Ray Ceredigion playworkers. On the right up hill beside St Peter's Church, all welcome.

Ray Ceredigion offers free ‘Messy Play’ session for babies and toddlers.

First Thursday every month, 10am, in the Extension at Lampeter Students' Union. Come along and make a mess!

Contact: Helen Lewis, 01545 570686 Zumba Kids will soon be coming to Lampeter. If you are interested, contact Louise Evans, 07584 199372.

markets_______________ People’s Market, Victoria Hall, Lampeter, 10am-1pm every 2nd & 4th Sat each month.

Next markets: Sat 22 Feb, 8 & 22 Mar. Lampeter Farmers' Market Market Street, Lampeter, 9am-2pm alternate Fridays.

Next markets: Fri 7 & 21 Mar. Ffarmers Market Neuadd Bro Fana/Village Hall, Ffarmers, 10am-12.30pm 1st Sat in the month.

Next market: Sat 1 Mar. Llansawel Market Llansawel Village Hall, 10am-12.30pm 3rd Sat of the month 16

Next market: Sat 15 Mar. Lunar Market Lunar Market will take place the first Sat of every month except August.

Next market: Sat 1 March

move your body _________ Lampeter Belly Dance and Belly Fit classes Mondays, Lampeter at Shiloh Church Hall (next to Police Station): Beginners' Belly Dance (all ages) 1.302.45pm (£5) Belly Fit for over-50s, 3-4pm (£4) There is space in both classes. First class free.

Contact Rose Barter: 01239 851737, rosebarter@btinternet.com Belly Dance & Yoga classes. Belly Dance: Tues 7.30-8.30pm. £3.00.

Beginner Yoga: Thur 7-8.30pm, £5.00.

Crugybar Village Hall. Contact: 01558 685321, elenamgilliatt@hotmail.com Tribal Dance with Lyza. Alternate Wednesdays 6.30-8pm, Shiloh Church Hall, High Street, Lampeter.

Contact: lyza_darkestwish@live.com Cerddwyr Ramblers, Lampeter, Do you enjoy exploring the local countryside, discovering historic sites, socialising and mixing, having fun and chit-chat? Lonely, low in mood, recently widowed? Need a change or inspiration to exercise enjoyably, meet up with people outside your usual circle? Do you have a passion to maintain and improve our footpath network by surveying footpath problems or legal diversion orders? Or perhaps lead walks that you know and would like to share. Then join Lampeter Ramblers, we have much in common! Choice of varying walks throughout the year. See our programme in Library or Creative Cove. James Williams, 01570 480743.

Coedwig Gymunedol Long Wood Community Woodland. Do you need to get out and about more? Join our FREE ½ hour Health Walks on the last Sunday of each month. Next is Sun 30 Mar. Especially for people who find walking difficult. Please wear sensible shoes. Meet at Penlan Goetre, SA48 8NE at 2pm. Contact: 07557 386755, info@longwoodlampeter.org.uk Footpath Maintenance volunteering with Ceredigion County Council rights of ways staff every Friday. Trashing, clearing, erecting stiles, footbridges and installing gates mainly in the south of the county. Fun and cost toward transport included. No experience needed, just join our team! Contact: James Williams, 01570 480743

move your body contd _____ Flamenco Dance classes weekly in Aberystwyth with Dixey Ruscelli.

Wed 6-7.30pm, Aberystwyth Arts Centre, with live flamenco guitarist.

Private Flamenco dance lessons available. Men and women welcome.

Please bring strong chunky-heeled shoes. Contact: 01570 493138, dixeyart@gmail.com Friday Walkers: meet up with us for ambling rambling on a Friday morning.

Easy access walking for about an hour, depending on the weather and the mood. Meet Friday morning, rain or shine, 10am at Rookery Car Park.

Free, followed by coffee and more chat. Not able to manage the stroll but would like company? No matter, just meet up with others like you for coffee.

Philip Lodwick 01570 422181 Jane Guy School of Dancing.

Established 1977. Ballet and stage work; annual production; RAD exams.

Classes: Tue eves and Saturdays, Shiloh Chapel, Lampeter. Thursdays 4.30-7.30pm at Theatr Felinfach.

Contact: 01570 470645 Sarn Helen running and cycling club welcomes all abilities. Junior runners (ages 8-16) meet at Leisure Centre, Tues 6.15pm. Adult runners meet Rookery Car Park, Tues 6.15 & 8pm, Thur 6.15pm.

For cycling (road and MTB) please see: www.sarnhelen.org.uk Mat-based Pilates. Benefits may include increased energy, improved posture & co-ordination; physical & mental toning; increased strength & stamina; greater mind/body/spirit connection. Classes at Cellan Hall & Lampeter. Shân Rees, OCR-qualified instructor with extensive experience of movement & exercise. Contact: 01570 218138, 07940 375147, www.livingexcellently.co.uk Yoga, Wednesdays 5.30-7pm Cellan Millennium Hall. Small friendly group led by Pat Beaton, 01558 650594.

Send your listings to lampetergrapevine@gmail.com Canolfan Hamdden Llambed Leisure Centre. 01570 422552, Lampeter-leisure@ceredigion.gov.uk Winter activity programme as follows:  Cardio Circuit Training gyda/with Sands & Paul Butch. £3.50. Mon 6.307.30pm. All-over body workout.

Conditioning. Resistance training.

Improve mobility, strength & stamina.

Ymarfer i’r corf i gyd. Cyflyru. Ymarfer gwrthsafiad. Gwella symudadwy,

cryfder ac egni.  J’s Workout 01559 362690.

Oedolion/Adults £3.90, Henoed/ Myfyrwyr/Iau/O.A.P/Student/Junior £3.20. Tocyn consesiwn/concession ticket (12 dosbarth/classes) Oedolion/ Adult £39, Conc. £32. Mon 5.306.30pm, STEP. Tues 5.30-6.15pm, Zumba. W ed 12noon-12.45pm, Ffit rw ydd Rhw ydd/Ease into Fitness. Wed 6.30-7.30pm, Kettlecise. Thurs 5.15-6pm, Dawns Aerobig/Aerobic Dance.  Clwb Rhedeg Sarn Helen Running Club Thurs 6.15-7.15pm. Croeso i blant dros 8 oed/ All children over 8 years welcome.  Yoga/Pilates Ann Inshaw, 01570 481319, 07826 692110. Mon 5.307pm, Yoga (pob lefel/all levels). Tues 6-7pm, Pilates (pob lefel/all levels).

Wed 5.15-6.15pm Pilates (canolol/ cynyddol/intermediate/advanced).

Thurs 6-7pm, Pilates (pob lefel/all levels). Fri 10-11.30am, Yoga (pob lefel/all levels).  Spinning £3.90 sesiwn/session, £39 for 12 sesiwn/sessions. Bwcio gyda taliad yn unig!/Booking with payment only! Tues 5.30-6.15pm, Wed 7.158.15pm, Fri 5.30-6.15pm. Cofiwch ddod a photel o ddŵr a thowel/ Remember to bring a bottle of water & a towel.  Clwb Ymladd Cleddyfau Llambed/ Lampeter Town Fencing Club Sean Slater, 01570 493139, anpiobaire1@aol.com Croeso i bawb dros 10 oed. All aged 10+ welcome. £4.50. Os ydych am hwyl, ffitrwydd a her o frwydro yna ymladd cleddyfau yw’r peth i chi. If you want fun, fitness and a challenge of combat then fencing is for you. Tues 3.30-5pm & Fri 6.30-8pm. Darparir offer/equipment provided.  Clwb Badminton/Badminton Club Dydd Gwener/Friday 5-6.30pm. All players welcome.  Ysgol Gymnasteg REES School of Gymnastics Islwyn Rees, 01570 422979. Sat 9.15-10am, Oed meithrin (dan 5)/Pre-school (under 5); 1011am, Dechreuwyr (6 oed i fyny)/ Beginners (6yrs+); 11am-12noon, Gwellhawyr (6 oed i fyny)/Improvers (6yrs+).  Disco Sglefrio/Roller Disco every Saturday 3-4pm. Oedolion/Adults £2.60, Plant/Children £1.90. ‘sgidiau i’w llogi/boots for hire £1.30

Tue 25 Feb, 7.30pm: The Sterling Trio, an exciting, innovative, engaging chamber ensemble. Unique combination of instruments complemented by bass clarinet, piccolo and alto flute. Extensive, eclectic repertoire from Renaissance to today. Includes works by Dowland, Corelli, Mendelssohn and Bartók. (See advert on page 20) Tickets on the door: £10; concessions £8.50, students free with a Union card, 2 children admitted free with a paying adult. To join mailing list (post or email) contact: 01570 422436, cockburn.david@gmail.com Kirtan / Bhajan singing. Sun 23 Feb, 3pm, and every 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month (9 & 23 March) at Perth Yr Onnen, Gorrig, near Horeb, Llandysul, SA44 4JR. Bhajans or Kirtan are devotional songs from India in a call and answer format, using ancient chants, for spiritual growth. Open to anyone, no belief system required. Singing together in this way can be powerfully uplifting and unifying. It doesn't matter if you think you can’t sing - just come and join in. £2.50 donation. Teas provided, maybe some real Indian Chai. For directions and to confirm that it's on, contact Iain, cameronbodywork@gmail.com

photography ___________ Lampeter Photography meet on 1st & 3rd Friday of every month, 7.30pm at the Kings Head, Lampeter. Monthly competitions, exhibitions & workshops.

All welcome. FREE. Contact: Stef, 07958 772035, lampeterphotography@yahoo.co.uk Tracy Dove, Llanfair Clydogau-based photographer, has an eclectic selection of her photo cards available at the Town Hall Cafe/Deli in Lampeter. Open Mon-Sat 10-4 with free wi-fi, great food, drinks & regular art exhibitions.

religious services & groups ________________

Lampeter Parish St Peter’s Church, Lampeter. Main Sun Service: 10.30am (bilingual), Other services: 8am Holy Communion (English), 9.15am Cymun Bendigaid (trydydd Sul yn y mis yn unig, Cymraeg). Church Hall available for hire, £8.50 per hour. Kitchen facilities.

Enquiries/bookings contact: Beryl, 01570 422324, music_________________ www.lampeterparish.org St Cybi’s Church, Llangybi. Main Lampeter Music Club at University of Sun Service: 9am (bilingual).

Wales Trinity Saint David, Lampeter Remember Copy Deadline: Fri 7 Mar campus.

17

religious services & groups contd _____________

Deborah Rowlands, 01570 480083, deborahjrowlands@gmail.com Seventh Day Adventists meet St Bledrws’ Church, Betws Bledrws. fortnightly on Sat at Cellan Millennium Main Sun Service: 10.45am (English Hall, 10.15am-3.15pm. or bilingual).

For more details: St Sulien’s Church, Silian. Main Sun www.cellanmillenniumhall.co.uk Service: 2pm (bilingual /Cymraeg). social _________________ St Mary’s Church, Maestir. Main Sun Alcoholics Anonymous Service: 2.30pm (2nd Sun in month Meet at the Catholic Church (white only, English). church), opposite the police station in Times apply to the first four Sundays Lampeter. Wednesdays 8-9.30pm. For in each month. For the few fifth Sun- info, national helpline: 0845 7697555 days there will be a single United ParCellan Millennium Hall Film Nights. ish Service at 10am: location will be See film listings box on page 20 published in the local newspapers.

Coffee Stop, Thursdays 10.30amSt Thomas' Methodist Church Sun service 10.30am, creche & youth 3pm at Emmaus Christian Fellowship, activity. Tuesday Coffee morning 9.30- 78 Bridge Street, Lampeter. Soup, 12noon. All welcome. See chapel toasties, cakes. W arm friendly environment. Contact: David, 01570 notice board.

422529 Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Custard Queens WI at Victoria Hall, Catholic Church, Lampeter Sunday Mass is 10am. For other 7-10pm. Sun 16 Feb: Flamenco Dance. Sun 16 Mar: Forensic Science services see church notice board.

Night. Sun 13 April: TBC. Contact: Emmaus Christian Fellowship meets Jen, 07540 383835, Sundays, 10.30am and 5pm, at rear of custardqueenswi@gmail.com - or see 78 Bridge Street, Lampeter. Contact: our Facebook page: David Patterson, 01570 422529 www.facebook.com/custardqueenswi All Saints' Church, Cellan. Bilingual services every 2nd and 4th Sunday of CY D Llambed. Ym arf er eic h the month, 2pm. A warm welcome to Cymraeg/Practise your Welsh. Dydd all. Baptisms and weddings by Mawrth 11 yb-12yh/Tuesdays 11amarrangement. Contact the Revd. Bill 12 noon, Gwesty y Llew Du, Llanbedr P.S./Black Lion Hotel, Lampeter.

Fillery, 01570 421425.

Croeso i bawb/All welcome. Croeso i St M ary's Chur ch, Llanf air unrhyw Cymro/Cymraes sy'n fodlon i Clydogau. Bilingual services every 1st ymuno â ni. Cysyllt â/Contact: Mary and 3rd Sunday of the month, Neal, 01570 470092 10.15am. A warm welcome to all.

B a p t i s m s a n d w e d d i n g s b y Golden Broth Lunch Club: Mon 10 arrangement. Contact the Revd Bill March at Cellan & Mon 24 March at Llanfair, 11.30am-2pm Fillery, 01570 421425.

Following a successful year we have Capel Bedyddwyr, Silian. Cwrdd yr returned in February and hope some ail a pedwerydd Sul y mis am 10.15yb. more residents of Cellan and Llanfair Croeso i bawb. will be able to join us at the lunch club.

Interested in Buddhism?

We offer a FREE light lunch of soup, A Study Group for Women. Exploring roll and butter, followed by cake, tea the underlying principle of Buddhist and coffee. Our main aim is to gather Practice and how we can apply this in for a social and play cards or Scrabour daily lives. Meets one day a month ble, or just relax and natter to friends. near Aberystwyth. Meditation, shared Please ring either Amanda in Cellan, lunch. Contact: Lesley, 01970 617129 01570 421338, or Linda in Llanfair, or Noel 07988 745364 01570 493706, to register your Lampeter Evangelical Church meets interest. every Sunday at Victoria Hall, 10am– 7pm. Contact: Gareth Jones at The Narcotics Anonymous Meet at St Thomas’ Methodist Church Mustard Seed café, 01570 423344 (end of the Drovers Road/Peterwell Lampeter Quakers. Every Sunday at Terrace), opposite the car park, on Canolfan Steffan, Peterwell Terrace at Monday from 7.30-8.30pm. national 10.45am. All welcome. helpline: 0300 999 1212 www.quakersinwales.org.uk (English) Crynwyr Llambed. Cwrdd bob ddydd Lampeter Friends is a Self-Advocacy Sul, Canolfan Steffan, Rhodfa group for people with learning Peterwell, 10.45 yb. Croeso i bawb. disabilities, set up by Eich Dewis Chi www.crynwyrcymru.org.uk (Cymraeg) (Ceredigion Advocacy). Every Wed, 24pm, CAMFA building, Lampeter. A Contact / Cysylltwch: welcoming and supportive space for 18

people with learning disabilities to meet and talk about issues important to them. Free, all welcome. Meet new friends, find support, take part in activities, build confidence, learn new skills & hobbies & have fun!

Contact: Rebecca, 07976 023486 Whist Drives, Wed 12 & 26 Mar, 9 & 23 April at Hafan Deg, Lampeter, every fortnight. All welcome. All Funds to Hafan Deg League of Friends.

Contact: Gwen Davies, 01570 481152

storytelling, books & creative writing _________ Meanwhile, the Storytelling Circle, will now be running the third Monday of every month (Mon 17 March), 79pm in Lampeter Students' Union (Andy Lawson Room). Open to all, storytellers and listeners, come along and shape the tale.

Creative Writing Workshop. Sat 8 Mar, 2-4pm, Tysul Hall, Llandysul. £10. Refreshments available. Tutor: Julie Rainsbury. Sponsored by Literature Wales. Full programme of workshops. Contact Kelly, 01267 235336

theatre________________ Lampeter Youth Theatre and stage school (LYTss) term started 14 Jan, ends Fri 21 March. New Entrants: Tue 4.30-5.30pm. Intermediate: Fri 4.305.30pm. Advanced: Fri 4.30-6.30pm.

Contact: Annie May 01570 423080, annie@themay.co.uk

volunteering ___________ Lampeter Credit Union needs you.

Would you like to do something that will make a positive difference to many local people? We need 2 or 3 people for 3 hours, twice a month, to get started. Training will be given. For more details contact: 07891 632614 British Legion Lampeter is recruiting members now. This is your opportunity to become a member of the Legion.

Contact Sharon, 07971 806886.

Home-Start is a national charity supporting families who are struggling to cope in more than 300 communities across the UK. Our support is delivered by volunteers, in the family’s home, for a couple of hours every week. We also run family groups and social events for families. We are looking for volunteers to join us and become part of our team.

Contact Jan Young, 01545 571317.

Lampeter Permaculture Group is a collective of like-minded people, interested in principles and practice of permaculture & sustainability. More info: www.lampeterpermaculture.org

complementary & alternative therapists Charlotte Allen RSHom Homeopath 14 years' clinical experience.

Homeopathy is a safe, holistic method of treating both emotional and physical conditions. Llanfair Clinic, 41 Bridge Street, Lampeter, SA48 8EG. 01570 493746 Val Allen, BACP senior accredited counsellor/psychotherapist. UKRC Registered. Offering counselling, ps yc h oth erap y, h yp n oth er ap y, EMDR. 23 High Street, Lampeter SA48 7BA, 01570 493522, valallen@surfanytime.net Rolfing - Structural Integration.

Res tore your bod y's natur al alignment and grace. Caroline Body, Lampeter, Carmarthen and Cardiff.

07917 360595, www.rolfingwales.co.uk.

Transformational Bodywork. Iain Cameron Watson Trauma Release, Alexander Technique. Relief from stress/anxiety, PMT, insomnia, neck, back, shoulder, period pain, headaches. By donation. 07852 626001, cameronbodywork@gmail.com, http://transformationalbodywork.co.uk Jo Camlin BSc WSHom. Homoeopathy. Empower your own healing (or your child's) by telling your own story. Then a vital, energetic remedy is matched to your unique, personal experience. 01570 421480 (a.m.)

The Light of Love, a short but powerful treatment harnessing and directing the power of the Universal Life Force, relaxing, healing by touching into the heart's gentle energy. Ceredwin (thirty years of energy work experience), 01570 421476 Cathy Crick Stanton. Yoga teacher / therapist (Iyengar trained) and Barbara Brennan Healer. For class details, or to book 1-2-1 yoga or therapy/healing sessions: 01570 421144, 07748 031614, cathycrick@hotmail.co.uk

women's workshop ______ Wed 10.30am-3pm, St James’ Hall, Cwmann. 11am Qi Gong gentle ex er c is e. 1 2n oo n lu nc h. 1 pm workshop. Disabled access & toilet.

Free car park. £2.50 a session (includes vegetarian lunch and all activities). Pay on the day, no membership or advance fee. Drop in when you please. New members always welcome. Workshops: (26 Feb is half-term)

Glynis Florence, BA, Cert. Couples Counselling, Dip Psychosexual Therapy. Member of COSRT. Relationship counselling and therapy to address sexual concerns in Aberystw yth and Lampeter .

Contact: 07780 458763 The Art of Well-Being: Reflexology and Indian Head Massage. Glennis Gratwick, MAR, FFHT, fully qualified, insured, 10 years' experience. Stall at Lunar Market (see listings) selling aromatherapy products.

Contact: 01570 493288 Bowen Technique and Reflexology relieves back, sciatic, neck and shoulder pain. FHT, AoR, fullyqualified. Contact Pearl 01974 299224, 07967 647920, www.bowen-reflex4wales.co.uk Alison Kaye MBAcC. Traditional Chinese Acupuncture. Llanfair Clinic, 41 Bridge Street, Lampeter, SA48 8EG. 07779 256388 Living Excellently: assisting people to make the most of themselves and their lives. Assertion Skills, MatBased Pilates, Style Coaching, Life Coaching. Shân Rees BA, Dip.Couns, Dip Style & Life Coaching. 01570 218138, 07940 375147, shanharmony@aol.com, www.livingexcellently.co.uk Susan McAllister (Bsc Hons).

Transformational Teacher, Therapist & Consultant. Over 20 years of teaching, complementary therapy & healing experience. Available now for Crystal Healing Workshops & Angelic Tarot Readings. To book, contact: 01570 493006, 07572 672986, sue@tranquillight.vpweb.co.uk Louise Nadim BSc Hons, Ph.D. Fully qualified, insured Brennan Healer.

Working in the Human Energy Field assessing, balancing and healing, to restore physical, emotional and spiritual health. Contact: 01570 421144,07920 112228, louise_nadim@hotmail.com Wed 5 Mar: Board games Wed 12 Mar: Craft (towards fundraising) Wed 19 Mar: Bring objects of interesting shapes e.g. driftwood Wed 26 Mar: Creating Mosaics Contact: 01570 423167 or 01545 590391 Contact the newsletter team lampetergrapevine@gmail.com 19

Dr Colette Power. Mindfulnessbased Stress Management, MB Pain & Illness Management; Introduction to Mindfulness Courses; 1-2-1 coaching. For future courses, or to discuss ways of working with mindfulness for you/your group, Contact: 07890 835873, colette@mindfulnesscourse.co.uk

www.mindfulnesscourse.co.uk Wild Cherry Coaching. Battling stress, low confidence, or simply feeling stuck? Move forward with sensitive and holistic life coaching with Ros (BSc (Hons) Psychology, Diplom a Stress Managem ent, Advanced Diploma Life Coaching).

Free consultation. 07462 746248, www.wildcherrycoaching.co.uk Eva Ryan MTI. Wholistic massage to help rebalance and heal body, mind and emotions. Treatment tailored to your unique needs.

Registered, insured practitioner. At Taliaris, or arrange home visits.

Contact: 01558 822390, 07792 748191 Remedial Massage Therapy. Kelly Smith, LCM dip. 4, Maesyfelin, Llangybi, SA48 8LY. 01570 493774, 07582 170181 Christine Stephenson BSc MNIMH. Medical Herbalist at Llanfair Clinic, 41 Bridge Street, Lampeter. Contact: 01239 858946 Ashley Ward MAR GJC (Dip Reflex).

Dan cing T re e R efl exo log y .

Reflexology in the comfort of your own home, within 15-mile radius of Lampeter. Fully-insured member of Association of Reflexologists.

Contact: 01570 422985, 07811 767563, www.dancingtree.co.uk Reflexology. Annie Zakiewicz MAR is a fully-insured member of the Association of Reflexologists and practises from Cellan. Contact: 01570 493295, 07790 107521, www.reflexologywithannie.co.uk

Now is the time to take

Homeopathy for Hayfever If you suffer in Summer, call me now.

Charlotte Allen, 01570 493746

SONGS OF FREEDOM: Harmony song workshop with Clara Clay

Film Night

A joyful day, drawing together the strength and harmony of many voices, singing to celebrate the human soul's yearning for freedom - from tyranny, or from our own limitations.

For everyone with a voice (yes, that'll be everyone!)

Experience, ability to read music or confidence are not necessary!

Expect soulful, inspiring songs from around the world, taught clearly and accessibly by ear.

Clara is an experienced community choir leader, renowned for her enthusiasm in sharing and blending the delicious mixture of breath, resonance and words.

Fri 7 Mar “Romeo and Juliet” (PG) Darren Lewis, Hailee Steinfield

Fri 21 Mar “Le Week-End” (15) Jim Broadbent, Jeff Goldblum & Lindsay Duncan

Fri 4 Apr “Blue Jasmine” (12A) Cate Blanchett, Alec Baldwin

Fri 25 Apr “April Philomena” (12A) Judi Dench, Steve Coogan

Fri 9 May “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom” (12A)

Cellan Millennium Hall

Idris Elba

Sunday 23 March, 11am-4pm

Fri 23 May “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” (12A)

Cost £15 (book before 8 March for a £5 discount) Send a cheque & your contact details to: Clara Clay, 60 New Rd, Llandeilo, SA19 6DF for more info, other payment methods & lift sharing, 07092 9018928, 01558 822287, loving2sing@naturalvoice.com Please wear loose comfy clothing & bring something yummy to share for lunch.

Martin Freeman

DOORS OPEN 7.15pm for 7.45pm start Admission by Donation BIG SCREEN & DIGITAL THEATRE SOUND WWW.CELLANMILLENNIUMHALL.CO.UK

VOLUNTEER PROJECTIONIST REQUIRED TO TAKE OVER THE FILM NIGHTS AT CELLAN HALL

Please contact Amanda Newman 01570 421338

WOMEN IN TUNE Wednesday 13 - Sunday 17 August The organisers are looking for enthusiastic women to get involved in volunteering their skills and energies.

Would you like to help organise an activity area for girls under 16? Do you have sound engineering experience & qualifications?

Volunteer to be part of a friendly, supportive group of women who make music, learn new skills and enjoy themselves.

See www.womenintune.co.uk or ring Lesley 07778 142643 for more info.

Wanted Bric-a Brac, House Clearances, all kinds of Garden Tools & Scrap Metal Contact: Tom Evans, 01570 422048 or Liz 07792 091953 20

The Cats of Pentrefelin

continued from issue 16

“But where?” asked a rather timid tortoiseshell kitten who was sitting at the front.

There were cries of “Ssshhh! Know your place, Kitty! Never speak to The Whiskers unless spoken to!” Kitty began to sob.

Ginger smiled kindly at the little kitten and looked towards us for help. (I suddenly realised that Kitty meant a lot to Ginger...)

“Perhaps we can be of use?” I suggested.

A hundred pairs of glittering eyes turned on me. “You see”, I added, “we live in a very small village in West Wales, where everybody welcomes cats as long as they help catch mice and rats on the farms. In fact, I know of several local farmers who could do with a helping paw or two. And there’s plenty of room in our garage for some of you, too.”

“But how can we get there?” mewed Kitty.

There was silence for a bit, then “Wait!” cried a rather roughlooking cat who had just appeared on the windowsill above us. He looked as if he had been in a fight. He had one ear bitten through and walked with a limp.

“I know a truck-driver who drives to Wales regularly. Tomorrow night at 6 o’clock he’ll be heading for Fishguard, in deepest Wales.”

“Mmmm! Fishguard – good name!” muttered someone in the crowd.

“Deepest Wales – mmmm!” muttered another.

“It all depends on the tides – and the fish” said another cat.

The rough-looking cat (I will call him Taffy for the sake of anonymity) glared at the interrupters and continued: “It’s a big truck and won’t have much in it as it’s picking up a load of fish from the docks. It will be big enough to take all of you but you must not mind the smell of fish. Are you ready for the challenge?”

Every cat in the audience miaowed in agreement.

“Then be ready tomorrow night, 6 o’clock sharp, at the Catford Truck Depot!”

“What is your estimated time of arrival at Fishguard?” enquired my husband, ever practical.

“Around midnight”, growled Taffy. And, with that, he disappeared into the night.

“But what will happen after Fishguard?” persisted Kitty. She began to sob. “We’ll never escape!” she mewed piteously, “We will all be turned into food and fur coats.”

I couldn’t bear it any longer. “Don’t worry”, I said, as cheerfully as I could, “we will make sure we are there to meet you. We promise we’ll be at Fishguard docks tomorrow at midnight.” I sounded braver than I felt inside.

We shook hands and paws all round, then we left the cats sheltering in their basement. Among them were our two room-mates. They explained that they no longer felt safe in our hotel room. We said that we quite understood. We crept back to the hotel in our dressing-gowns. The white van had gone, the fire exit was locked and we had to go in by way of the hotel’s main entrance. Although we got a funny look, the receptionist on duty recognised us and didn’t ask any questions.

Back in our room, my husband asked “What on earth did you make that stupid promise for! You know you can’t keep it.”

“Wait and see”, I replied.

“Hrrrmmmmph!” he snorted and got into bed.

He slept soundly but I just couldn’t. I hardly slept at all because I felt quite anxious about what I had promised we would do for the cats. How could we succeed?

On the train journey home to Wales, I racked my brains for a solution to the Fishguard problem while my husband read the newspaper. (That’s me at the window.)

Finally I came up with an idea.

To be continued …

Sheila Evans-Pritchard 21

WORLD BOOK DAY IS THE BIGGEST CELEBRATION OF BOOKS AND READING IN THE WORLD. Every child in full-time education in the UK and Ireland will receive a ÂŁ1 book token so they can visit a bookshop and choose a BOOK for themselves.

Last year over 1.2 million World Book Day book tokens were redeemed and more are expected this year.

So, what book will you choose?

For some great resources, games and activities visit http://www.worldbookday.com/resources/

EARTH HOUR SAT MARCH 29 8.30PM 22

Lampeter attracts women from all over Wales to take part in first local International Women’s Day celebrations

calling themselves ‘Feisty and Female.’ The aim is to celebrate International Women’s Day 2014.

IWD has been celebrated every year since its inception in 1909, following the organising of a garment workers' strike in New York where women were protesting against their appalling working conditions. Since then it has been taken up around the world. In 1975 it was formally adopted by the United Nations, where in 2013 the UN Women Executive Director, Michelle Bachelet, delivered this upbeat message: "All around the world, our voices are rising and silence and indifference are declining. Change is possible and change is happening."

This year will be honoured by the gathering of women from all over Wales where, seated in the traditional feminist circle, we will encourage one another to perform songs as well as spoken word, and share food together in celebration of our long path to freedom.

So if you are feisty and female with a song in your heart or a poem in your soul, or you just want to listen to women and girls that do, you will find a warm welcome from 12 noon till 4pm in Lampeter Cheryl Beer, renowned songwriter, author and University's Arts Hall. Bring food to share. filmmaker, is just one of many performers coming to We who believe in freedom cannot rest until it comes.

Lampeter on Sat 8 March to take part in a Maj Ikle ‘performance picnic’ organised by a local group

Food Festival Feasts The Lampeter Food Festival will be taking place on Saturday 26 July in the grounds of the University.

Several new directors have joined the team organising the festival, and a new Chair has been appointed.

A number of new activities around the festival are being planned.

Among these are a series of monthly 'Festival Feasts' to raise funds for the festival and to promote local food and local caterers and restaurants.

The Feasts lined up so far are:  Saturday 22 March - the Mulberry Bush  Friday 11 April - the Belle at Llanllwni  Saturday 17 May - Tom Holden's The Rambling Pea at Victoria Hall In June, Cardigan's innovative The 25 Mile is coming to do a pop-up feast at Victoria Hall - the date for that will be announced shortly.

All the Feasts will be 3-course meals, featuring local produce as much as possible, and with vegetarian options.

Tickets will range from £20 to £25, with half the ticket price going to support the Lampeter Food Festival.

Advance booking for the Feasts will be essential.

Tickets will be available on the website, by email or by phone: see contact details below.

We are also on the lookout for musicians who would like to support the Food Festival by performing at the Feasts - please contact us if you are interested.

Chris Studman www.lampeterfoodfestival.org.uk/feasts email: feasts@lampeterfoodfestival.org.uk 23

small ads & Classified

24

March

by Ian and Tomos Morris If the weather is reasonable, March can be an excellent month to listen to our resident birds in song. This is also a good time to locate unidentified songsters since the leaves are still not on the trees.

Later in the breeding season, song levels decline as nesting and the feeding of youngsters commences.

Our walk for March starts at the main car park at Llanerchaeron. Walk past the church, then pick up the main trail towards Aberaeron.

Listen out for the drumming of Greater Spotted Woodpeckers, behaviour which marks out territory in a similar way that song does for other birds.

Chiffchaffs, an early returning summer migrant, should be heard singing regularly by the end of the month. On warmer days, scan the skies for displaying birds of prey that soar on rising thermals.

The trail, which is flat and easily accessible, runs next to the river for much of the way and is frequented by Grey Wagtails and the amazing river specialist, the Dipper.

The Llanerchaeron estate and the Aeron valley are a beautiful place to walk and explore on an early spring morning.

Dipper

by Tomos (age 8)

What is new and different about the Men’s Shed initiative?

The Men’s Shed is an environment that is shared, designed and owned by all the men coming to the Workshop/Shed space. It is an approach that offers an innovative way to enable men, across all age groups, living in a rural community, to work and learn together and share a space as equals and not as patients, users or customers.

How are they funded?

The key to developing a sustainable Shed is that it is independent and owned by the members of each Shed.

The actual work contributed by the members of each shed is voluntary and given freely.

It is important to point out that we are a pro-women's movement, and indeed it is women who are our greatest supporters.

We are holding an information evening to set about forming a Shed in the town, which will be held in the Mulberry Bush on Thursday 10 April from 6pm- 7.30pm.

We would like to set up a Shed in Lampeter - anyone interested is welcome to come along.

For more info contact: Luke Conlon, 07908 860061.

25

Men's Sheds

Ian’s Tweet:

Are you interested in forming a Men’s Shed in Lampeter?

Often a man’s social life revolves around employment, and when he loses his employment (via retirement or redundancy) or is long-term unemployed he loses a significant part of his social network.

A community Men's Shed replaces that important work and social network by providing an environment for men to support, share skills and communicate with one another while working on meaningful projects. Men’s Sheds may look like a shed in your back yard, yet they innovatively share some characteristics of both community education and health promotion projects. Individual Sheds tend to be based in unused workshops or industrial units, and make a range of products - repairing bikes, computers, boats, old cars, food initiatives etc - all aimed at the local community in proximity to each Shed.

The initiative started in Australia about 20 years ago and has spread to other parts of world, notably Europe and Ireland. For examples you can visit: www.mensheds.org.uk or www.mensshed.ie

Fuel additives for more efficient diesel engines The theme of this month's Grapevine is "Build it" and making things can be fun and rewarding. What comes either side of "build" are "design" and "maintain". Just as intelligent thoughtful design, using just the right amount of the right material, is crucial to using resources wisely, so is maintaining what you have made, so that it lasts as long as possible and you have to use fewer replacement parts and materials. In the context of diesel engines you may have planned maintenance such as changing the oil filter at a specified mileage, and unplanned maintenance that is sometimes called a breakdown! There can be nothing more unpleasant than following a smoky diesel car in a black fog, but maintenance does not always involve spanners and sockets.

Long-lasting benefits can be had from using a diesel fuel improver, not only from a maintenance point of view, but also from a wider environmental standpoint.

Oil and therefore diesel and heating oil are considered a dwindling and precious resource, so they need to be used wisely. Diesel Rhino is a diesel fuel improver that you add to your diesel tank at the pump, and no other fuel additive as far as I know comes close to giving as many benefits. Looking at each of its benefits in turn is a really useful way of learning what is needed for a diesel engine to run efficiently.

1. Emissions? If a fuel can burn fully and cleanly then the emissions are reduced. The measure of how quickly and thoroughly a fuel will burn after being squeezed sufficiently to explode (remember there are no spark plugs in a diesel engine) is the cetane number. The higher the cetane number, the more readily the fuel will burn. Diesel Rhino increases the cetane number of diesel by 6 points (depending on the base fuel), raising it to the equivalent of the premium diesels that are substantially more expensive on the forecourt, if you can find them. Particulate emissions can be reduced by 90%, and a 50-60% reduction is possible in nitrous oxide and carbon monoxide.

2. Diesel Rhino contains a gentle injector cleaner to ensure a nice fine spray pattern when the diesel is fired into the cylinders. Finer sprays burn better.

3. Economy? Clean injectors, spraying good fuel, equal higher miles per gallon (MPG). Diesel Rhino claims a 10% improvement in MPG although higher figures have been reported. If you can do 550 miles on a tankful when you could only do 500 miles before treatment, then that has to be a good thing.

4. Water in diesel fuel is common and gets in through a variety of ways. It can rust steel tanks and engine parts, turn to steam that fractures injectors, and harbours and promotes all sorts of organisms. Many of us have seen that sludge and slime that lives at the bottom of your heating oil tank. Diesel Rhino binds to water and brings it harmlessly through the system. It also contains three separate anti-oxidants to keep diesel fresh over time. As the weather gets colder any diesel containing water will thicken, wax and gum up. Combined with a cold battery this will often lead to a failure of the engine to start.

5. Lubricity and friction? The more lubricating a fuel can be, the less the wear on engine parts. The oiliness of a diesel and what makes it feel slippery is a measure of its lubricity. Sulphur is an excellent lubricating agent but is being reduced in diesel fuel in an attempt to limit sulphur dioxide emissions. Diesel Rhino has an added lubricating agent to ensure long-lasting protection against wear. With a set of injectors costing many hundreds of pounds, and a new diesel pump well into four figures, looking after them is a must for your pocket. Increasing the lubricity of your fuel is key to reducing maintenance in the long run.

Heating oil, red diesel and biodiesels will all benefit from treatment. Whether you choose to use a 5-star treatment like Diesel Rhino or separate products (check that they are compatible with each other), don’t overlook the basics such as keeping tyres inflated to the correct pressure to decrease rolling resistance.

OJ Harvey OJ works at Ffics which aims to build in traditional ways and to design and maintain for the future. Ffics is also a supplier of Diesel Rhino - see ad on page 30 26

Cookie’s Corner

As my regular reader will know, when it comes to food, I do not aim to use only local produce; I think that would be unrealistic and quite possibly lead to a limited, and dare I say it, a boring diet. I do however aim to use as much local stuff as possible when it is available, and when I have to source from further afield it is time to consider a few other factors - and the treatment of producers is one of them.

This brings us nicely to the focus of this article Fairtrade. That funny little blue, black and green circle logo (which I have only recently realised is a person waving) designed to assure us, as we shop, that the producer has been given a fair return for their labour all very simple and right at the heart of a sustainable approach to food.

Probably the most ‘famous’ Fairtrade item is the Fairtrade Banana - (see article on page 10) - and the main ingredient of one of my very few pudding recipes. I don’t ‘do’ puddings very often but I am going to let you in on one of my favourites. I particularly like the recipe because it manages to sneak in a strong coffee - which should be Fairtrade of course. So I get banana, coffee, cream, toffee and digestive biscuits: I think that qualifies as my ‘5-a-day’!







Banoffi Pie Very little fuss and equipment is needed for this recipe.

A small saucepan to make the caramel and an 8-inch circular dish or cake tin. It isn’t going in the oven so it really just has to hold the pie and allow you to serve it easy peasy.  Make the coffee first, ideally a good double espresso.

Conti’s will do one if you don’t have a machine and, seeing as you need it cold, it doesn’t matter if you bring it home with the shopping. In the absence of a machine or trip to town, put 2 heaped tablespoons of ground coffee (not instant) in a cup along with 60fl oz of boiling water. Let it infuse for few minutes and then strain the liquid and leave to cool (that’s why we do it first). Lots of Fairtrade coffee available.  Next take a 14oz can of sweetened condensed milk and put it in a bowl of hot water - leave till later.  Now for the fun bit, the biscuit base. Crush 8oz of digestive biscuits and to this add 4oz of melted butter - mix well. You can crush the biscuits in a food processor or I recommend you save on the washing up and use a bowl and the end of a rolling pin. Dove’s Farm and Traidcraft both do a Fairtrade digestive.  When you have mixed your butter and crumbs, press them into the bottom of your chosen tin or dish: the back of a wooden spoon is best for this. Place in the fridge for 30 minutes or so.

Some people use Hobnobs or chocolate digestives both are fine but the chocolate flavour is usually lost, so if you really want an extra chocolate fix I would recommend using plain digestives but melting some





proper (minimum 70% ‘proof’) dark chocolate and spreading that on top of the chilled, crushed biscuit base. Hobnobs will give a different texture but the base tends not to stay together so well.

Now for the only cooking you have to do - over a gentle heat, melt 2oz of butter and 2 rounded tablespoons of soft dark brown sugar in the saucepan. You do want a dark sugar, but don’t worry too much if it is soft; light, muscovado or one of the others, especially if you have half a packet hanging around in the cupboard - any will do (but preferably Fairtrade).

When it has all melted, stir in the contents of the can of sweetened condensed milk that you have been warming in a bowl of water. It should be far easier to get out of the tin if warm. Bring to a simmer and stir constantly for 5 minutes. Now pour this hot caramel over the biscuit base.

Whip up 15 fl oz of double cream (or whipping cream).

As you are whipping it, slowly add 2 or 3 tablespoons of the strong coffee. When you have finished, the cream should be quite stiff and bitter-tasting. Don’t worry - it’s supposed to be like this.

Slice 3 large Fairtrade bananas onto the top of the caramel and quickly cover completely with the whipped cream. Covering the bananas will prevent them from going brown. Chill for at least 2 hours – this is really important!

You can decorate the pie between fridge and table.

Cocoa powder applied through a sieve takes more practice than it should, so I recommend attacking a block of good Fairtrade chocolate, straight from the fridge, with a potato peeler. Don’t use anything less than 70% cocoa solids or it will spoil the rest of the pie.

Enjoy and only share if you must!

I didn’t know Lampeter was a Fairtrade Town. I know I can always get Fairtrade products from a few outlets but I don’t see a great deal of promotion of the idea some towns such as Garstang in Lancashire have made it central to how the shops operate and it pulls in essential new custom. Maybe an idea for the Town Council and Chamber of Commerce.

Fairtrade goes to the heart of our relationship with food.

If we don’t pay the producers of food enough to live and support their families and communities, then something is very wrong.

Fairtrade is focused on the developing world but the idea is just as relevant to Welsh farmers getting a decent price for local produce. Have a think.

Tim Martin 27

POTTING SHED DIRECT

All natural materials, sustainable and ethical.

Natural Craft Stall Tregaron Rd

People’s Market, Victoria Hall, Lampeter, 2nd & 4th Saturday of the month, 10am - 1pm

Opening times:

The Food and Craft Market,

Monday to Friday - 9.00am to 5.30pm

Llansawel Village Hall, 3rd Saturday, 10am -12.30pm

Saturday - 9.00am to 4.00pm

1st Lampeter Scouts Hall, 12th and 19th March

Now stocking fresh milk, bread & a large range of Welsh chutneys, jams, beetroot & fresh free range eggs

The Quercus Rooms, th

th

th

th

24 King Street, Carmarthen 24 /25 April, 10 & 28 May Pre-packed or pick and mix ranges of plant dyed textiles; needlework and felting kits; fair trade upcycled jewellery, hand felt purses, embroidered bags, cushions; gifts; bespoke commissioned designs; and bookings for workshops.

All our bananas are Fairtrade Start thinking about Spring … we will be stocking potting compost at reasonable prices

Natural Craft Workshops 10–4 pm small friendly, informal groups with all materials and a light lunch included.

If you don’t see what you want on our shelves, just ask and we will endeavour to stock it.

Handmade Fabric Boxes Wed 5th March, Llansawel Village Hall £35.00 per person - booking essential.

A warm welcome to everyone

Please see websites or visit Pam’s stall for further details. www.pottingsheddirect.co.uk www.facebook.com/pottingsheddirect www.pinterest.com/pamdirect www.etsy.com/uk/shop/pottingsheddirect

Croeso cynnes i bawb

TAINCWM HOUSE www.taincwm.wordpress.com Email: taincwm@live.co.uk Tel: 01570 471554 / 07949 679026

~ Bed & Breakfast ~ ~ Fabulous home-cooked food for all diets ~ ~ Holistic therapies ~ Beauty ~ ~ Art and creativity workshops ~ ~ Parties & special occasions ~

Taincwm is a haven of peace and tranquillity...

2 large double bedrooms with private facilities and lovely views; a perfect getaway...

Evening meals for residents and non-residents...

Delicious home-made food, mostly vegetarian, all diets catered for. Parties of up to 10 welcome.

28

PRIZE - £10 Garden Centre voucher

competition

Robert’s Garden Centre have kindly offered to sponsor this first Local General Knowledge and Cryptic Crossword Competition with a £10 Garden Centre Voucher.

Robert’s Garden Centre at Barley Mow, Lampeter, was founded 20 years ago in 1994. The business offers a very wide selection of garden products ranging from bulbs, seeds, flowers, trees and shrubs to garden tools, pots of many different colours and sizes, garden ornaments and the foods and pest controls that help keep the garden flourishing. Aquaria, fish, pumps, food and other fish–keeping resources are also available. Details can be found on their website: http://roberts-garden-centre.co.uk/ Robert Jones, the owner, prides himself on the quality of all of the products that he supplies, which is demonstrated by his many loyal repeatLocal Knowledge/Cryptic Crossword No 1 (Jeep) customers, who also appreciate the competitive prices. With Spring on the way, the 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 variety of seeds, bedding plants and 8 shrubs on offer will ensure many visitors.

9 Opening hours: 9am-5.30pm, Monday to Saturday, 10 10am-4pm Sunday.

01570 422756.

11

14

12

13

15

16

18

19

17

20

21 22

23

24

25 26

27

Across 1. Impressive blue hotel in Aberaeron (13) 8. Adjective for woolly creatures on the hills around Lampeter (5) 10. Lampeter’s twin (2,7,3,5) 11. Independent retailer of electrical goods (1,1,7) 13. See 12 down.

14. Someone ready to use the honeymoon suite at the Falcondale Hotel? (8) 16. Carnivorous mammal found on the riverbanks of the university campus (5) 18. Feathered part of the makeover collection at Calico Kate (4) 19. The local Welsh theatre venue (9) 22. The local name of the A482 as it goes through Lampeter (6,6) 25. Water from the first parts of saline encompassed areas (3) 26. Would Arthur go to this Lampeter shop for a psychic reading?

(7,4) 27. Where Oscar might want to chill out (3)

Down 1. Supplier of DVDs, old and new, for your nightly viewing (4) 2. Sport that received £300,000 in 2011 for new Lampeter pitches (6) 3. The shout heard after the sixth ball at the Lampeter Cricket Club (4) 4. Small fish found in the Teifi (8) 5. Much needed places to sleep after scrambling the moors (5) 6. Not very often worn on the beaches of Aberaeron (7) 7. The residence of Sir Herbert Lloyd (9) 9. Festival which commemorates Rhys Thomas James Pantyfedwen (10) 11. The owner of the Welsh Quilts Centre (3,5) 12 & 13 Across. Location of a dental care centre in Lampeter (4,4) 15. First name of the playwright who wrote plays performed by the Woodland Players (7) 16. Fuel that heats many rural properties outside Lampeter (3) 17. The number of Robs Taxis on Mill Street (3) 20. See 24 21. The Welsh name for the mouth of a river (4) 23. A useful facility for tourists driving to unknown places near Lampeter (3) 24 & 20. Location of Alec Page’s blacksmiths business (3,5)

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Closing Date for Entries: Monday 10 March, 5pm Name: ............................................................... Tel: ............................................( Day)................................................(Eve) Email: .....................................................................................................................

Place in Competition Entries box in Lampeter Library or send by post to: Cryptic Crossword No. 1, Grapevine, c/o Victoria Hall, Bryn Rd, Lampeter SA48 7EE. 29

small ads & Classified Brand new American Tribal Style® Bellydance classes

Dracorns Wood Floors New, reclaimed and antique Specialist in sanding and repairs to existing floors

1-2pm and 6-7pm Victoria Hall, Lampeter Classes £4 - FIRST CLASS FREE No need to book just turn up

Mike Bridge

Contact Wendy Steele for info 01570 472921/ 07752 478779

01570 472921/07917753298 dracorns@mail.com www.facebook.com/dracorns

HAND KNITTED FOR YOU: FLORRIE’S CRAFTS Can't knit? No time?

Want something special hand-knitted?

Commission orders taken.

Price list available.

Come and see me at the People’s Market, Lampeter every 2nd and 4th Saturday, or phone 01570 218045

wendywoo@myself.com www.tribalunity.co.uk

Wanted

Retired, professional lady, non-smoker, no pets, looking for 1 or 2-bedroom house/flat to rent in or near Lampeter.

Excellent references.

Please call 07719 384536.

LAMPETER TOWN FENCING CLUB Tues - 15.30-17.00 Fri - 18.30-20.00 LAMPETER LEISURE CENTRE Contact: Sean Slater Tel. 01570 493139 Email: Anpiobaire1@aol.com

lampetergrapevine@gmail.com

Cegin Pantygwin Outside catering provided for parties, agricultural shows, funerals etc

Celebration cakes made to order Many years' experience and Council licensed Contact Rhonwen, 01570 423651 30

Bakery Update: March 2013

DID YOU KNOW? If you place a paid advert for your local event in the Grapevine, you can also have it included on the Victoria Hall and Cellan Millennium Hall websites for no additional charge?

Please email your poster (preferably JPEG format) to: admin@vichall.org.uk Thanks!

After much tweaking we now have some loaves that we are really happy with and will be baking every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The range includes our Country Loaf – a blend of wholemeal, rye and white flour, semisourdough white batards and baguettes, a rye and caraway loaf as well as a pure seeded spelt.

NOTICE to ADVERTISERS In order to keep afloat financially the Grapevine is in the process of changing the invoicing of adverts to a ‘Payment in Advance’ system.

This might take us a while to put in place so please bear with us.

In the meantime, we thank you for your continued support.

All are available to taste every day.

The looming hungry gap as far as vegetables is concerned is fast upon us. Never fear though, still plenty in the stores and more coming out of the tunnels.

Isle of Wight tomatoes should be with us by the end of the month – a spot of sunshine for all to savour!

Reminder: Grapevine Themes & Copy Deadlines

Follow us on twitter @organiclampeter

April - ‘Local Heroes’ - Fri 7 March May - ‘May I Tempt You?’ - Fri 11 April

Find us on facebook/OrganicFreshFoodCo Visit our shop on the Industrial Estate in Lampeter. 01570 423099

Send your letters/articles/listings/adverts to

lampetergrapevine@gmail.com

next issue… copy deadline: friday 7 march theme: ‘local heroes’ do you know someone who is an unsung hero, male or female, old or young? if so, we would like to hear from you so that we can uncover fascinating facts & interesting stories about the amazing people who live (or have lived) in our local community. we need your help to make the next issue of Grapevine a real celebration of our ‘local heroes’ please contact the newsletter team lampetergrapevine@gmail.com

...on the streets friday 21 march 31

Cacennau cartref, bara, cyffaith a bwydydd sawrus Ffrwythau, llysiau a phlanhigion tymhorol, cartref Cig a gynhyrchir yn lleol a dewis o waith llaw crefft Te a choffi Homemade cakes, bread, preserves and savouries Homegrown seasonal fruit, vegetables and plants Locally-produced meat and a selection of handmade craft Tea and coffee

Saturday 22 February Lampeter Credit Union Launch & Community Seed Swap

32