The Community Mag November 2020

November 2020

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Editor’s Foreword “Personally I think the Sennedd is a good idea but I’ve made promises in Westminster.

It has to go I’m afraid. No one will really care anyway because it’s only Wales.”

The quote above was made during a Facebook conversation by Lee Canning, former deputy chair of the Welsh Conservatives. It was there for just a couple of minutes before he realised what he’d said and deleted it, but it was so explosive that it had been copied instantly for proof by those in the conversation. Mr Canning, who resigned his role in the Conservatives to join the ‘Abolish the Welsh Assembly’ party, now denies he ever wrote it, but unfortunately for him the Internet has a memory.

On the face of it the ‘Abolish the Welsh Assembly’ party (who cannot even be bothered to get the name right) should be a group made up of people living in Wales who are unhappy with the performance of the Senedd. His statement shows us that a great deal more is at play. As predicted, the drive for the abolition of devolved powers is coming from the same set of fascistic right wing players in Westminster that have brought us Brexit (which, this time next year, I’ll be surprised if a single Welsh citizen will think was a good idea). So why are they so determined to break the Welsh identity?

This is nothing to do with ‘the union’ to my mind. After all, if the past decade has shown us anything, it’s that these people have almost as little regard for anything ‘British’ as they do for anything else. The answer, as sadly predictable as it is, is always money. The push that’s coming will be for control our resources (as it was before). Does anyone seriously believe the argument that Wales is a drain on the British economy, but that they want to keep us anyway for sentimental reasons?! If you do believe that, it’s certainly not supported by any available evidence.

Again, this is not about Tory v Labour, or even Plaid Cymru v Labour – just look at that statement above. They are using the party system purely for manipulation. There is no conviction with this set of people. They change their politics to suit, and nothing changes that.

In the current climate, this is not even about Independence v Union, because that is not what we’re presented with. It is Independence v Existence.

It doesn’t matter who you are, how you vote, or how you came to be here. Where you were born is not part of this question. However you’re here, you’re here now. This is where you live, and people outside want to take away your right to say what happens here. They want to take what they want, without any heed of local needs.

Forget your party, look at the current picture fully and ask yourself the question “Do we have the right to make our own decisions, and look after our own needs?”

Because people like Mr Canning, and those that control him, think you don’t.

Until next time…

Phil

If you want to write to the magazine our address is: Community Mag, 8 Darren Road, Ystalyfera, Swansea SA9 2HP. You can also e-mail us at mail@communitymag.co.uk.

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COULD YOU PROVIDE A CARING HOME TO SIBLINGS IN NEED OF SUPPORT IN POWYS? Do you have plenty of room to spare to provide a caring and safe environment within your home? In Powys we have an urgent need for Foster Carers who can support large sibling groups.

Large sibling groups are usually four children or more and can range from 0-18 years of age. To foster a large sibling group you will need; enough spare bedrooms in your home to accommodate four or more siblings, time to offer, energy, ‘stickability’ when the going gets tough, optimism and a sense of fun.

Councillor Rachel Powell, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, says: “For the majority, keeping children together from one family holds vital benefits, to each of those individual children, and these established relationships are important in view to securing a sense of stability and belonging, in what can initially be an unsettling time.

“By providing foster care to a large sibling group, you will be making a life changing difference to local children and young people in need of support. I urge anyone with the space in their home and the commitment and a willingness to help children and families from Powys, to come forward and find out more.”

By fostering through the Council, you will be providing a caring home for local families in your local area, with access to local 24-hour support.

You will be joining a team of carers committed to making a positive difference to the lives of young people across the region.

If you’re interested in fostering and want to find out more call our friendly team on 0800 22 30 627, visit www.powys.gov.uk/fostering or email fostering@powys.gov.uk

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Crossword

ACROSS

1. Bank employee, who can say (6) 4. Balance found in muesli bran (5) 9. Crumbling old places fell down (9) 10. Not as old as that confused Reno guy (7) 11. Plenty of land in tarmac resort (5) 12. Opposed to poetry (6) 14. Purloins duck between beginning and end of shifts (6) 17. Last letter in some game (5) 19. Tolerates some token duress (7) 21. Alter code when moved (9) 23. One of the Earps, sounds interrogative at first (5) 24. Shuffle a paper then come into view (6)

Answers on page 66

DOWN

1. Sum up tall youth, essentially (5) 2. Let cure become a lesson (7) 3. Find a fish in a wee lake (3) 5. Begins tantrum in a moment (7) 6. Palindrome instrument (5) 7. Found in large scale drama crowd (5) 8. Hesitates to use spa turbulence (6) 12. Committee on a ship (6) 13. Evidence of injury, allow for redness (7) 15. Shorten a river crossing (7) 16. Serenity, sounds like part of something greater (5) 18. Nobleman with ponytail is before his time (5) 20. Grasp earnest weapon, essentially (5) 22. High point found in octopus (3) 7

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WHAT COULD BE DONE TO MAKE CYCLING AND WALKING WITHIN YOUR AREA EASIER?

A Powys County Council engagement exercise, to identify areas of improvement and new active travel routes within Powys, has begun.

Perhaps it’s simply somewhere safe to leave your bike whilst you pop to the shops. Maybe a cycle lane would make you feel more confident to ride on the road. Perhaps a zebra crossing would allow pupils to safely walk to and from school. Or maybe the pavement needs improving to make walking to town with the children and a pushchair easer. There are lots of different options which could be considered to improve the ‘active travel’ routes within your town.

“The Active Travel (Wales) Act 2013 aims to make Wales a walking and cycling nation.” Explains Cllr Heulwen Hulme, Powys County Council Cabinet Member for Environment.

“With your help, during this 12-week engagement exercise, we plan to further progress the map developed by communities in 2016/17, identifying potential future active travel networks within the 11 designated localities (the largest towns within Powys). We want to understand our current walking and cycling habits, and how these could be enhanced in the future, and would love to hear the views of people who either live, work or visit our towns. This includes community groups, schools, families and individuals.

“Once all the routes and suggestions for improvements have been identified and analysed, a draft Active Travel Network Map will be made available for final public consultation early next summer.”

To find out more about the council’s active travel plans and to let us know your ideas on improving active travel routes in your area, please visit https://en.powys.gov.uk/article/4846/ Integrated-Network-Map

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ECONOMIC RESILIENCE FUND PHASE 3 - FIND OUT IF YOUR BUSINESS IS ELIGIBLE FOR SUPPORT

Businesses across Powys are being urged to see if they can access the third phase of Economic Resilience Funding launched by the Welsh Government.

Economy Minister Ken Skates has announced a new funding round with an extra £140m being made available to Welsh businesses to offset the economic impact of COVID-19.

Powys County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Councillor James Evans said; “Of the new money being made available £20m will be ring fenced to support tourism and hospitality businesses, an important sector in Powys, which has been hit hard by the pandemic.

“Applications for the new funding support open later this month but an eligibility fund checker for businesses is now live and I urged Powys business to see if the can access grant support in these difficult times.”

The new fund includes £80m worth of business development grants which are open to micro business, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and large business.

• Micro businesses (employing between 1 and 9 people) will be able to apply for up to £10k on the condition they match this with their own investment of at least 10 per cent.

• SMEs (employing between 10 and 249 people) will be able to apply for up to £150K on the condition they match this with their own investment of at least 10% for small business (1-49 staff ) and 20% for medium sized (50-249) business.

• Large businesses (employing 250+ people) will be able to apply for up to £200K on the condition they match this with their own investment of at least 50%.

The Eligibility Checker for the fund is available at: https://fundchecker.businesswales.gov.wales/erfphase3 Applications can be made w/c26th Oct on a first come first serviced basis.

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Jennifer Melly Law 45 Alfred Street Neath SA11 1EH

Tel: 01639 630057 Visit: www.jennifermellylaw.com E-mail: reception@jennifermellylaw.com

What are trusts and why create one?

A trust is a way of holding assets for a specific purpose and there are many reasons why a trust might be useful. The assets to be held in the trust are put into the names of trustees who are responsible for dealing with the assets in accordance with the terms of the trust. Trusts can be put in place during a person’s lifetime or under their Will. Some of the most common uses of trusts are as follows:-

We advise on:

1. Trusts for minors If assets are left by a will or gifted during a person’s lifetime to young beneficiaries it is usual to include trusts so that they will not receive the gift until they turn a particular age such as at 21 years. This is to ensure that they are old enough to deal with the inheritance responsibly.

• Powers of Attorney

2. Trusts for disabled or vulnerable people Where you are leaving assets to a disabled or vulnerable beneficiary it is often a good idea to place these assets into trust rather than giving the assets to the beneficiaries outright. If the beneficiary cannot manage money then a trust is helpful as the trustees would manage the assets for them. Also, if they receive benefits and / or care then the trustees can manage the fund for them whilst maximising any benefits to which they are entitled to.

3. Tax planning Trusts can be set up during a person’s lifetime or in their will to help with inheritance tax planning. The rules in relation to tax change all the time and are complex and so specialist advice should be sought when setting up a trust and existing trusts should be reviewed regularly to ensure they achieve their original aim.

4. Property trusts We often advise on placing properties into trusts in wills or in a person’s lifetime This could be to give a right to reside in a property but to ensure it passes to their chosen beneficiary in due course. It may be for example that an individual would like a spouse or partner to benefit from their estate but also want to ensure it ultimately passes to their children and not to future spouses or step children.

There are many reasons why people set up trusts but the ultimate aim is usually to protect assets for future generations. Jennifer Melly Law advise on all aspects of trusts and can assist you to plan for the future through the preparation of Wills and/ or through setting up a trust in your lifetime.

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TSW WARNING FOR WALES CONSUMERS AS UK GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES GREEN HOMES GRANT Trading Standards Wales is warning Consumers in Wales to be vigilant against scammers looking to take advantage of the UK Government’s newly launched Green Homes Grant.

Whilst the grant is only available in England, there are concerns that scammers andunscrupulous traders will use this scheme to commit fraud in Wales as was seen in previous years with greener home improvement schemes launched by the UK Government.

The Green Homes Grant is an initiative to encourage homeowners to invest money in improving the energy-efficiency of their property and provides a voucher under the grant.

The voucher must be used to install a primary measure which will be either insulation and/ or low carbon heating. However, after at least one primary measure has been installed, the voucher can then be used to help cover the cost of a list of secondary measures such as double or triple glazing, draught-proofing and energy efficient doors.

Any work under the scheme can only be undertaken by approved traders that have been scrutinised to carry out such work.

Trading Standards Wales is concerned that the scheme will be used and promoted by rogue traders, cold calling people in Wales either via telephone or on the doorstep, claiming that the resident is eligible for the scheme, when in fact it is only available if you are a resident inEngland.

Concerns regarding the Green Home Grant include amongst others: • Wales’s residents will be contacted either by telephone or on the doorstep informing them they are eligible for the grant, when they are not.

• They will pay for a service to set up a grant they are not eligible for • They will pay deposits for the work and to secure the grant when this is not a requirement • That traders make false claims that they able to undertake the work under the scheme If any trader offers the scheme to a resident living in Wales, it will be fraudulent as the UK Government’s Green Homes Grant is not available in Wales.

Chris Hill the Trading Standards Wales Lead Officer for Fair Trading said: “If you are contacted by someone offering you a grant under the scheme, then we recommend you report it to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 2231133.”

While the Green Homes Grant is only available in England, there are alternative sources of help available for energy saving home improvements in Wales.

If you are struggling to keep your home warm or cope with your energy bills, the Nest scheme offers a range of free, impartial advice and, if you are eligible, a package of free home energy efficiency improvements such as a new boiler, central heating or insulation.

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Call 0808 808 2244 or visit www.nest.gov.uk to find out more.

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Photograph: ‘New Carpet’ by Jeanine Bishopp.

If you’d like to see your photo on The Weather Outlook send it to phil@communitymag.co.uk

For ALL Your Plumbing & Heating Requirements

by Jonathan Powell, Swansea Sound Weatherman

November always harbours the potential to deliver an early round of coldness ahead of the onset of the winter season, and whilst it may well be chilly at times, the 'lean toward' for the month would appear to spare us a cold snap of any length or severity. November is shaping up to be a month where the weather baton is initially in the hand of milder and wetter conditions before being passed to a colder regime as we head toward December. Therefore, bar the occasional dip to lower temperatures, the first half of the month may well embrace a milder pattern with rain at times, before late November sees a distinct shift to colder weather with fog, frost, and ice featuring. To compensate though, some bright, crisp, blue skies by day, with a keen bracing sharpness to the air. November potentially returning above average for precipitation.

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Email: phil@communitymag.co.uk or write to Community Mag, 8 Darren Road, Ystalyfera, Swansea, SA9 2HP

Hi Phil, Thank you for taking the bold move to call out the shambles of Westminster and speaking the truth to a majority of Community Mag readers. Especially on behalf of those who are discussing the potential of Wales with independence, myself being one of them.

I am a newly qualified art teacher in my late twenties who moved to Wales over 3 years ago from the south west of England. Since the Scottish referendum of 2014, I began my research of the modern celtic nations going it alone. There’s an attitude of those who support it that truly believes in breaking from traditionalist views that are no longer relevant now and call on those to truly change.

Of course change from the status quo is frightening to the average British citizen - Welsh, English, doesn’t matter - it seems to be just a part of our culture. However huge change is happening right before our eyes and we are now stuck in a position where making choices is non optional. So we are now forced to think about what that future is going to look like and can no longer be ignored. To do so will put us all - including the very identity and existence of Wales as an individual entity - at risk.

Now everyone has no choice but to think about what our future is going to look like.

Thanks for reading. I look forward to the next community mag!

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WE CAN BEAT COVID-19

A GP in the Swansea Valleys is confident we can reduce the number of positive Covid-19 cases by pulling together and following the latest rules.

Dr Becky Jones, who practices at Dulais Valley Primary Care Centre, is adamant that obeying the local lockdowns in Neath Port Talbot and Swansea, wearing a face mask or face covering in enclosed public spaces, observing the two metre social distancing rule, and washing our hands regularly, can bring down the incidence of disease.

It’s more important than ever to protect the NHS in Wales as we head into winter.

Dr Jones, is the lead clinician for the Upper Valleys Cluster, four practices which also include the Amman Tawe Partnership, Pontardawe Primary Care Centre and the Vale of Neath Practice.

Like other practices across Swansea and Neath Port Talbot, the cluster has worked hard to make the necessary changes needed to make their buildings ‘Covid secure’. That includes strict one way systems, safe physically distanced waiting rooms, and in some cases, red zones, which are used to see suspected Covid-19 patients.

Dr Jones said: “This pandemic has been the biggest challenge of my career so far on so many different levels.

“It’s been challenging to keep the practices open. It’s been challenging to put in place all the safe changes that we needed to do to make sure our patients can continue to access us safely through all of this.

“It’s been challenging because we’ve had to deal with staff absences because many have had to self-isolate themselves at different times over the last few months.

Having to provide a service with reduced numbers has been very difficult.

“But with the help and understanding of our patients, it is something we have been able to do and will continue to do throughout the Upper Valleys Cluster.

“Our patients have been amazing as we try and help worried people navigate through what is currently a very fast changing world.”

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While it might be slightly different in different practices in Swansea Bay, if you are a patient at Dulais Valley, on arrival you will be greeted by a member of the team in PPE who will take your temperature before you can enter the building. The majority of the

IF WE ALL WORK TOGETHER

seats in the waiting have been taken out, with only a few remaining, all more than two metres apart. When you are called for your appointment, you simply follow the arrows all the way through the one-way system.

Dulais Valley also has a red zone - an area of the building where patients with suspected Covid-19 can be seen in a safe environment.

Dr Jones said: “The red zone is completely separate from the rest of the practice.

You park in a different area. It also has its own entrance and exit.

“It is cleaned down completely after every single patient is seen in there.

“This has meant that we can say with confidence that our patients could and can continue to access us safely through all of this.”

With cases of Covid-19 are on the increase throughout Wales, Neath Port Talbot and Swansea are both on local lockdown along with the restrictions that such a measure involves.

It’s now up to everyone to follow the rules and try and bring the numbers down in the throughout the Swansea Bay NHS area.

Dr Jones said: “We know cases are on the increase. I certainly do as a GP, as are my primary care colleagues, because we’re assessing more patients with potential symptoms on a daily basis.

“I can’t emphasise enough how important it is that we all play our part in helping stop the spread of Covid-19.

“We have to follow the lockdown rules, and wear a face mask or face covering in enclosed public spaces, wash our hands more than ever, and, of course, stay two metres apart from people who aren’t in our household.

“By doing this we can protect not only ourselves, but our friends and families, our communities and the NHS.” If you think you are experiencing symptoms you need to self-isolate immediately and get a test. Find out more information on how to do that on Swansea Bay University Health Board’s website here: https://sbuhb.nhs.wales/coronavirus-covid-19/information/ Please only book an appointment if you have Covid-19 symptoms: a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, or loss/change of smell/taste.

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24

6 Minutes A Day or 6 Months, We’ll Get You Talking (Welsh, that is)

CONSULTATION ON NEW PRIMARY SCHOOL

A report asking for approval to consult with Swansea Valley school communities on a proposal to establish a new English medium 3-11 school will be considered by councillors at a Cabinet meeting on 21st October 2020.

The proposal also includes the addition of a new swimming pool with additional learner pool to complement the current health and wellbeing offer for pupils and the wider community.

The new school will be funded jointly by the council through its Strategic School Improvement Programme and the Welsh Government’s 21st Century Schools and Education Capital Programme which is modernising schools across Wales.

So far, the joint programme has seen more than £123m invested in modern Neath Port Talbot Schools - the biggest investment in education in Wales outside of Cardiff.

It is proposed the new Swansea Valley primary school will be built on land in Parc Ynysderw, Pontardawe.

It will form part of a learning, health and wellbeing community campus which includes Cwmtawe Community School and Pontardawe Leisure Centre.

The new primary school would replace Alltwen, Godre’rgraig and Llangiwg primary schools. The proposed new English-medium primary school for boys and girls aged 3-11 years will accommodate 630 full-time pupils and 140 part-time nursery age pupils.

It would also accommodate a Learning Support Centre (LSC) for primary age pupils with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Inclusion of a swimming pool at the site will further enhance the physical activity and wellbeing opportunities for pupils who currently attend Alltwen, Godre’rgraig and Llangiwg Primary schools, as well as those at Cwmtawe Community School which is also closely located to the new build site, and pupils of other nearby schools including YGG Trebannws and YGG Pontardawe.

Subject to approval, it is intended to consult on this proposal between 3rd November 2020 and 5th January 2021.

You can read the full report on the Council website.

WHATEVER YOUR COMPUTER PROBLEM, WE CAN HELP Ever since I first started FCS in 2003, I have always believed that no problem is too small or too complex. Now, having moved to South Wales, I aim to continue that philosophy. So if you need a hand with a software issue, or you’d like a new PC built, I’m here to help.

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RESOLVEN CANAL CAR PARK VISITOR FACILITY – STATEMENT FROM COUNCIL LEADER CLLR ROB JONES There has been a great deal of rumour and misinformation on social media in particular about the new café and toilets facility at Resolven Canal Car Park that requires further explanation and clarification.

In May 2018, the council advertised for a temporary catering opportunity in the car park. It was made clear to all tenderers, including Mr & Mrs Hughes, throughout the tender process for this initial catering concession, that their occupation was temporary.

It was clearly set out, that the council was submitting a grant application for funding, to convert the toilet block into a smaller refurbished toilet block and a separate café.

Those wishing to tender were also advised that the highest tender bid would win. There were several applicants, and Mr and Mrs Hughes were the highest bidders. They were awarded the concession in early February 2019. There were a number of disappointed tenderers who lost out at this stage.

The council, meanwhile, had submitted its funding application to refurbish and partially change the use of the toilet block. It was successful, Planning Permission was secured and the construction work was tendered. The works will be completed in the next few months.

Mr and Mrs Hughes were fully aware of this process but decided to undertake a series of unauthorised works to their temporary facility, that would obviously be at risk if they were not to win the tender for the new facility.

As an obligation of the council’s grant funding award, as is the case with all similar funding streams, the council was required to undertake a tender exercise for the permanent refurbished facility. That is, to advertise the new facility and to request bids to secure an operator. It was therefore not the council’s decision and it was not possible to merely allow Mr and Mrs Hughes to remain in occupation although they were, of course, encouraged to make a bid themselves.

The second tender process was exactly the same as the first tender process. It was a highest bidder tender and this was clearly confirmed to all interested parties from the beginning of the process. This time Mr and Mrs Hughes were unsuccessful as they were not the highest bidder. The process was very clear and fair. Importantly, it was the same for all parties.

26

Some of the media posts made in respect of this issue have been very disappointing but also untrue. As with all tenders within the council, they are undertaken in accordance with very strict guidelines and a range of different officers are involved to ensure that they are fair and open. Whilst tenderers who are unsuccessful may be disappointed with the result of a tender, the process is always fair. In this instance, whilst I understand the disappointment of Mr and Mrs Hughes at missing out, it is exactly the same process that they were happy to be a part of first time around.

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The Handover

POETRY

Black birds on high Spiralling against the blue White wisped lines Heading somewhere new Borrowed daylight leaves As suns time is due darkest stage of dusk Luna’s breaking through Dawn chorus cries Sun pledges true Black birds on high Spiralling against the blue Dan Good

Hi Phil, I’m Malc Lawes, a local photographer. I live in Ystalyfera, I absolutely adore our beautiful part of the world and our amazing countryside. This is my image of Hope (Where there’s light .. there’s hope) .

It’s dedicated to all the people helping out in these awful times.

Best regards, Malc 35

Glantawe (Swansea Valley) Lions Club

TREE OF LIGHT

Sponsor Form (Block Capitals please)

Name or cause to be remembered

.....................................................................................................

Minimum sponsorship £5

My name and address

Name ..........................................................…………………………….

Address........................................................……………………………

Post Code ....................………….. Tel .........................………………..

Please cross the location of the Tree you wish to sponsor

Clydach Morriston Pontardawe Ystradgynlais Closing date for applying is: 13th December

Please make cheques payable to Glantawe Lions Club and send to Lions Tree of Light, 164 Kingrosia Park, Clydach, Swansea SA6 5PF or pay using PayPal https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_sxclick&hosted_button_id=EYP7R4EHCT9HA

Gift Aid ‐‐ I am a taxpayer and want Glantawe Lions Club* to Re‐claim the tax on my donation. Please tick box & sign Signature ……………………………………………….………

36

Your name will be held on computer but will not be passed to any other organisation *Glantawe Lions Charitable Trust Registered Charity No 1079936

PROPERTY CLEARANCE & WASTE REMOVAL

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GLANTAWE LIONS’ TREE OF LIGHT Glantawe Lions has been supporting the community since 1973 and cover a vast area from the Liberty Stadium through to Craig Y Nos Castle and everything in between.

The majority of our members are vulnerable and shielding and we have not been able to be as active in the community as we would like during this pandemic, This year as with many other non-profit groups we have seen fundraising events postponed or cancelled. We have however been able to support the NHS by donating 5 IPads to enable virtual visiting and donations of nightwear, toiletries to patients within our hospitals and supporting foodbanks.

As we look forward to Christmas one of our main projects is the Tree of Light service, where you can sponsor a light in memory of a loved one with money raised being donated to the community. Usually a dedication service would be held in Morriston, Clydach, Pontardawe and Ystradgynlais. Due to Covid-19 we’ve had to change how we do it for this year. A dedication service will be available online, on our website, facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube channel and will feature the names of your loved ones. In addition to this the names will be displayed outside the four venues. A commemorative card will also be sent to you with details on how to view the dedication service. If you would like to participate please contact treasurer@glantawelions.org.uk or complete the form opposite.

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NPT WELFARE RIGHTS TEAM - THERE TO HELP Despite the restrictions on being able to meet with people in person, Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council’s Welfare Rights Team has continued to provide vital support and guidance to benefit

claimants throughout the county borough.

Find out how the Welfare Rights Team can help you with: • • • •

Benefit entitlement advice Assisting to complete benefit forms General support and guidance over the phone Challenging a benefit decision

The Team also consists of dedicated Macmillan Benefit Advisors who support cancer patients and their families with their benefits, providing similar benefits advice, as well as Macmillan Grants, and Blue Badge applications solely for cancer patients with severe mobility problems.

The Welfare Rights Team can be contacted on 01639 685225 (Monday to Friday), please leave a message and an advisor will contact you as soon as possible; alternatively email the Team at welfarerights@npt.gov.uk

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Dear Phil, I was very surprised to read your footnote in the above edition, and I must say your views and comments are very anarchist to say the least, what is clear you do not like the Conservative party, yet relish the thought that had Jeremy Corbyn still been leading the Labour party things would be a lot different, this is a dream on your part, Corbyn was nothing other than a fascist, as his lack of dealing with anti - Jewish views within his party was disgraceful to say the least.

Whether you like it or not the way things are with infighting within the Labour party they will not in my view hold office in any coming election, as in spite of his faults “Boris “ has cemented his place in government by securing “Brexit”, where we now as a nation can have our own laws, fishing area’s and total independence from Europe, who want nothing less than one complete state of Europe.

With regard to a letter sent in to you from a “Melina”, she is also living in a dream, these migrants are coming into the Uk by the thousands, you only have to see any news channel and note that they are not complete families arriving but single men in their numbers who are fleeing from nothing, these migrants are better treated than our own people, as they get put up in hotels and given money for them to survive until such time a decision is taken to say whether they can stay or not, most disappear into the wilderness of different cities etc, and before you say it I am not a racist, I have no problem with genuine refugees arriving here but wake up we cannot keep taking in these people without better controls, the Uk will not be able to tolerate such numbers and who is going to pay for this people like you by means of Tax rises.

There will always be conflict between migrants and the British people who can see the injustice of what is happening, and it may even get worse.

I believe you are the sort of person who is a Communist as you display that in your comments, I too was one years ago but I grew up, what’s your excuse.

Regards T. Roberts

40

PS. I do not live in the area your Mag is distributed.

And before you think that I am a Tory, you would be sadly wrong, I was in the Labour party for a number of years, and supported MP’s such as Gareth Wardell and Martin Caton for the Gower ward, however I left when Tony Blair became leader as he was far right of the party, and lead us into a war we should not have got involved with.

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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Which international video sharing company is 15 years old this year?

Which TV ‘soap opera’ is 35 this year?

What language has the most words?

Laika was the first ever dog to do what?

What animal can live longest without water?

Which fruit contains the most protein?

The bald eagle is America’s national bird, what’s Britain’s?

Jamie Farr played who in the TV series ‘Mash’?

If you were eating calemari, what are you eating?

What widely used item was patented by Henry Doherty in 1972?

Who’s backing group was ‘The Coconuts’?

The song ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ came from which 1945 musical?

What country is closest to the North Pole?

What family does the hippo belong to?

What is the name of the top football league in Germany?

Which European country is famous for its clocks?

Which 2 alcoholic drinks make a ‘Black Velvet’?

Who is Oscar Zoroaster Phadrig Issac Norman Henkle Emmanu Ambroise Diggs?

Mark Zuckerberg created which website?

A rafter is a collection of what creatures?

What is the most common disease in the world?

Which Italian tractor maker started making cars in 1960’s?

Who was the Greek Godess of Love?

What is the original literal meaning of the word ‘bride’?

What sport is played on an oval pitch with 18 players per team?

What is a male giraffe called?

How many blue triangles on the Union Jack?

How many prizes on the Bullseye prize board?

What country do the football team Galatassary come from?

What did Fawlty Towers waiter Manuel call his pet rat?

Now turn the page for the picture quiz.

Answers are printed at the back of the magazine 43

DINGBATS - Can You Decipher Their Meaning?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

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ANSWERS ON PAGE 66

Allech chi FAETHU plentyn fel Harry?

Rydym angen pobl leol i gynnig cartrefi cariadus i blant lleo.

Could you FOSTER a child like Harry?

We need local people to provide caring homes for local children.

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45

YSTRADGYNLAIS VOLUNTEER CENTRE

Our mission is to improve the wellbeing of people in Ystradgynlais and neighbouring communities and to help build a rich and vibrant community

VOLUNTEERING

A vibrant and enriched community is where every person feels connected to their community through active participation in volunteer-related activities.

Contact Liz 01639 849192

YSTRAD RECYCLING

We work with others to value the importance of the three ‘Rs’ within our communities to protect the environment – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

46

Contact Josie 01639 845475

Supporting Your Well Being FOODBANK

Our foodbank and outreach service helps people and families in need facing financial and other hardship as a result of Covid-19.

Contact Carol 01639 849192

Foodbank Opening Hours Ø Tuesday & Saturday 10:00am to 12:00pm at the YVC Ø Tuesday 12:00pm to 1:00pm at Healthy Living Centre - Outreach Service

COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS

Promote Wellbeing - YVC wishes to initiate and support new initiatives at the Centre to enhance the health and wellbeing of the local community; A number of our Free workshops over September had to be postponed due to Government restrictions on indoor activities so as to maintain the spread of COVID. Please let us know of any ideas you have for future workshops by emailing us at yvcvolunteering@gmail.com

NEED SPACE?

Are you looking for floor space in the Ystradgynlais area - for group activities, a special event or just to meet up? We have over 900 square feet of flexible floor space available to rent during the daytime or evenings and our own car park.

For more details or to speak to someone about booking please contact us on 01639 849192. Usage will depend on current and future Covid restrictions.

THANK YOU. YOGITS Over 35s Touch Rugby Club, based in Ystradgynlais, recently held a silent auction for some Ospreys shirts, raising £365 which they then generously donated to YVC Foodbank.

We would like to extend a huge thank you to all concerned.

To find out more about YOGITS Touch Rugby Club contact Andy on 07970 013249

Wind Road, Ystradgynlais, Powys, SA9 1AF (opposite Tesco) Tel: 01639 845 475 yvcvolunteering@gmail.com http://www.ystradgynlaisvc.org.uk/ OPEN: Tuesday to Thursday 10:00 – 15:00 hrs , Saturday 10:00 to 12.30hrs 47

Why Welsh Independence?

Let’s reframe the question and ask - ‘why not?’.

Centuries of Westminster rule have left Wales as one of the poorest nations in western Europe, and the only country without a single mile of electrified railway! Our needs are ignored, falling on deaf ears in London, where we are seen as a region, not a country. Other countries of a similar size, such as Ireland, Estonia and Iceland, have prospered as independent nation states, and so too can Wales.

About YesCymru YesCymru campaigns for an independent Wales. We are a grassroots, non-party political movement.We believe it is time for Wales to take control of its future as an independent self-governing nation. WE CAN be a confident, outward-looking country that represents itself on the world stage. WE ARE BIG ENOUGH, and WE HAVE THE TALENT, the creativity and the resources to stand on our own two feet.

It’s time for Wales to step up.

Get Involved Our local groups meet regularly to organise events and campaigns. If you are curious about how independence will create a better, more prosperous, more equal society for all who call Wales home, then get involved - yes.cymru/groups

Join Us

yn #Annib

Join YesCymru to be part of the campaign actively campaigning for Welsh independence -

iaeth

# I n d yl e s Wa

48

yes.cymru/join yescymru . @yescymru . post@yes.cymru . yes.cymru

PRAISE FOR POWYS SERVICES SUPPORT FOR FOSTER CARERS Covid-19 has brought many challenges to daily life for us all over the past six months, disrupting our routines and in some cases forcing us to shield to protect our health.

For those Powys County Council Foster Carers that found themselves having to shield during this time, the council’s Children’s Services department had to find alternative ways to support them.

Councillor Rachel Powell, Cabinet Member for Young People, Leisure and Culture, commented: “I am really impressed with the support that our Children’s Services staff have provided to our foster families during these extraordinary few months.

“The support they would usually give face-to-face has had to change and be provided remotely, over the phone and by email. This support has helped our Foster Carers to continue to provide warm, loving and welcoming homes to our looked-after children and young people.”

One foster family found themselves facing an extended period in isolation due to shielding requirements.

The strain of being confined to the house contributed to the family feeling incredibly isolated and led to the children displaying some disruptive behaviour.

Staff from the council’s Children’s Services Intervention and Prevention team supported the family creatively with increased telephone contact and the use of online resources.

Following initial conversations to understand the situation and why the children were behaving in this way, staff and the Foster Carers came up with a strategy to help diffuse the situation.

It was also important to staff to ensure that the Foster Carers were taking care of themselves as well as the children during this stressful period. On discussion with the family, support networks were identified and the importance of incorporating ‘mindful moments’ throughout the day to boost ‘self-care’.

Weekly check-ins have continued throughout this time, and since shielding has ended, to ensure that the family is supported. The council consider foster carers to be the most valuable asset in the Fostering Service and are committed to provide 24hour support to ensure foster families and the children they care for receive the support they need every step of the way.

“I would like to say a big thank you to all the foster carers working with us. The young people in your care, and the council as a whole, really appreciate all that you do” commented Cllr. Rachel.

If you are interest in becoming a Foster Carer with Powys, please call 0800 22 30 627 or visit dedicated webpage: www.powys.gov.uk/ fostering for more information.

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Years ago buying a guitar was a very, very hands on experience. Many were hand finished, which meant that two guitars were never quite the same and, regardless of price, if you were unlucky you could end up with something that was difficult to play for any number of reasons. The biggest problem with this was that cheap guitars were often practically unplayable for any length of time.

As a young musician, me and all of my friends lusted after high end, expensive, big name guitars.

They were out of the question for most of us. A bad guitar could make the difference on whether a learner grew and kept a passion for their instrument or not.

These days it’s still possible to buy a bad guitar. The difference is that it’s not just one or two out of a batch, it can be an entire range of cheaply produced instruments (although it’s fair to say that a cheap guitar these days is normally a hundred times better than it’s older equivalent).

If you’re planning on buying a guitar for a gift or for yourself, you now have options that were simply unaffordable years ago. Buying a cheap guitar off the net is now a valid option taken up even by seasoned guitarists, because they know that getting them professionally set up can offer them an instrument that plays as nicely as something much, much more expensive.

Guitar Tech Services can offer you all levels of service on a new guitar at great rates. Starting with a standard ‘set up’ your new guitar will be visually inspected to ensure there is no major problem, electrics are checked, then the strings removed for the fretboard to get a proper polish, clean and oiling. New strings are fitted and adjustments are made to the truss rod, nut, string height and intonation until the instrument plays as well as it possibly can.

If, upon inspection, the fretboard is uneven, or suffers ‘high spots’, you can opt to have the frets to levelled, re-crowned and then finished and highly polished for the best possible feel when playing the instrument. A standard set up is also included in this process.

By using Guitar Tech Services in conjunction with your purchase, you can be sure that the instrument you buy will be a joy to play and afford the learner the best possible of developing a love for the instrument. Paul at Guitar Tech is a great source of advice if you’re unsure what you want, just remember to move quickly if you want your instrument professionally set up and returned in time for Christmas!

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53

Aries – The planet of Mars remains in your sign for this month and makes you forceful and eager to get on with any plans in hand. You will be decisive and ready to take action. Opportunities to do with finances are there for the taking, don’t miss out. The new moon on the 15th falls in your joint finances zone and enables you to invest with partners into a new busines deal. A busy month ahead can bring you benefits.

Taurus – You try to restrain yourself and you have to deal with delays but this is not what you want, so it is a frustrating time. You have great ideas and are very fast to tune into new possible ventures. You must be patient which is something you are good at when you need to be. In your opposite sign which covers close partnerships, there will be a new moon on the 15th which brings a need for you to renew and adjust boundaries.

Gemini – A good month ahead for you as the lunar eclipse will fall in your own sign on the 30th giving you a chance to re-assess an on going situation, which may need your attention or just some tweaking. This is great for any individual plans, either creative or doing something different but something you enjoy and perhaps have not made time for up till now. Using your versatility and the ability you have to juggle many things at once, you will find suitable outlets.

Cancer – Venus transits your home zone and you are naturally inclined towards a peaceful and happy base. You find time to ensure everything is at its best and make changes if necessary.

You will want to restore and regain energy through meditation and healthy diets. Partnerships continue to give you mixed messages. On the one hand, the promise of support and help, on the other delay and changes to your plans.

Leo – A busy time for you as you try to fit in as much as you can, stretching your working day.

Being organized and flexible is the key to success. The full moon on the 30th is a lunar eclipse and it falls in your friendship zone. Adjustments can be made to your friends list. You’ll have a major clear out, only keeping associations that are meaningful and genuine. Venus goes into your home zone after the 21st and will help you want to get things just right.

Virgo – The ability to handle finances is due partly to your down to earth qualities. You are able to negotiate and adjust budgets if necessary and you are on top of things for now. With Jupiter in a positive aspect to your sun, you find new opportunities come your way and a general feeling of optimism. The full moon on the 30th is a lunar eclipse in your career zone. This is the right time to sign on the dotted line.

Libra – Generally a more relaxed period of time coming up for you. The lunar eclipse on the 30th is in your travel zone and if you have had to postpone travel, you may find a window of opportunity opening for you. This will lighten your mood and give you something to look forward to. After the 10th of this month with Mercury in your financial zone, good negotiation and planning around anything to do with income will create a positive outcome.

Scorpio – This is your birthday month and it will give you the chance to assess your yearly record.

New plans for the future months and any new goals that you set for yourself keep you in focus for the next steps you must take. A cluster of planets in your own sign give you energy and enable you to focus on clearing the decks. The new moon in your own sign on the 15th is a perfect chance for you to do this.

Sagittarius – You find it hard to let go of anxiety perhaps around finances or health, certain things seem to be holding you back. You need to let go of lateral thinking and just stay within practical boundaries of what you can do, rather than focus on what you cannot do. Keeping busy will help you to be more positive and keeping in touch with friends and family. The eclipse in your opposite sign on the 30th will enable you to draw a line under the past and look forward to a new beginnings.

Capricorn – You have worked hard to get where you are and although you have faced challenges, you are doing well and turning things around. The new moon is in your friendship zone on the 15th and will give you the benefit of new connections and friendships that support you. You have Jupiter transiting your sign and this will help you draw on new ideas and opportunities for the future. Look at the bigger picture.

Aquarius – A good time for you to plan ahead, as the lunar eclipse on the 20th falls in your creative zone, urging you to try something new. You are being appreciated more in your career and by your work colleagues. The new moon is in your career zone on the 15th and you will feel this is a new beginning towards progress and improvement. You will be busy both with work and recreation.

Pisces – You feel frustrated with restrictions and try your best to use time productively. A new moon in your travel zone makes you want to expand ventures and to plan a break at some point.

You will be working hard on friendships, perhaps facing differences of opinion. Also, you will get help and support from friends and colleagues, so it s going to be a mixture of things.

The year ahead for

scorpio

54

At exactly 12.30 am GMT on the 23rd October 2020 the sun enters the sign of Scorpio and for all of you born with this sun sign, the following ingredients colour your year ahead. Alterations and adjustments need to be made according to your own particular time, date and place of birth which are individual only to you..

PERSONALITY – A much more confident side of your nature showing leadership qualities will be apparent during the months ahead. You find it easy to be supportive and offer great advice to others.

LOVE – At the heart of your emotions will be hard work ethic and a dedication to your career. You will be very motivated by what you get involved with and make sure that it is successful. You want to join with other people who have similar ideas and beliefs.

CAREER – Money through hard work and your assertive qualities will come your way but even more than that you will have satisfaction and fulfillment from whatever you do!

GENERALLY – A very different year ahead for you with a lot of new approaches and inventiveness making you change habits and try new things.

Lots of love and best of luck from Izabella Vlahavas

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This time I want to talk about something that I’m sure you will feel is a trivial matter and that is drainage holes in memorials.

British standard 8415 states that every flower container hole must have a drainage hole. The reason for this is that if water is allowed to acumilate in a flower container hole it will freeze, expand and possibly break the joint. For this reason we use a lockdown system which allows water to escape and the joint to remain secure for the long term.

The best drainage hole is a large hole which will allow water to flow freely away from the joint. The other benefit of this is that we can provide a longer flower container which will not be blown around the cemetery and will take longer stems.

If any part of your family memorial is holding water it is important that the issue is resolved before the frost sets in.

If your memorial does not have adequate drainage or you are concerned about any aspect of memorial stability contact me on the free phone number below and I would be happy to carry out a free survey for you.

Freephone 0800 1950 466 Email: info@vale-memorials.co.uk

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INGREDIENTS 2lbs Boneless Chicken Thighs ¼ cup Plain Flour ½ tsp Ground Black Pepper 1Tbsp Sunflower Oil ½ Cup Soy Sauce 4 Tbsp Rice Wine Vinegar

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Remove the skin from the chicken thighs.

Mix the flour and pepper together in a zip lock bag (use a large bowl if you don’t have any bags handy). Add the chicken pieces to the bag or bowl and coat thoroughly in the flour.

Heat a wok, frying pan or skillet over a medium - high heat and lightly brown the chicken in batches, for about 4 minutes, turning half way through.

Place the chicken pieces into your slow cooker, casserole or Dutch oven.

Mix together the soy sauce, vinegar, ketchup, sugar, garlic, ginger, and pepper flakes in bowl and then pour over the chicken.

If using your slow cooker, cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours. If using the oven, cook in a covered casserole dish at 180°C for about an hour, or 90 minutes if in a Dutch oven.

Add the cashews and stir through well. Serve over rice or noodles.

Phil 59

Need advice? Antonina is here to help!

Dear Antonina, I have got lower back pain & its really getting me down. After I retired two years ago I got out of the shower and pulled my back. Ever since my life has not been the same. I used to be fit when I worked in the building trade. I had a couple of minor injuries at work before but used to get on with it and take painkillers. I would go on holidays, did gardening, went to the pub for a jar or two. But now the pain has got me and I don’t enjoy life. I spoke the doctor and she gave me stronger painkillers. My wife is fed up with me because all I want to do is stay in and watch TV. Mike

Dear Mike, It is reported that about 80% of people in the UK will be affected by lower back pain at some point in their lives.

Now you have stopped working your physical fitness, daily routines and habits are bound to be different. Back Pain risk factors can be: • Not getting enough movement - studies show that regular physical activity can improve muscle strength, boost endurance and generate more energy.

• The tendency to slouch in front of the TV or computer adds strain on the back and can cause lead to muscular back pain.

Some wear and tear with aging is not unusual, especially if you have worked in construction or heavy industry. Previous injuries and occupational hazards of your job may have required repetitive bending, lifting, standing for long periods without a break.

At this point it is best to get a diagnosis so you know what you are dealing with. You can discuss with your GP about which treatment is for you. There are some excellent physiotherapists and chiropractors in the locality.

You could also look at the structure of your week and build in activities you enjoy or take up a new hobby or interest. Perhaps having some quality time with your wife -like a date night could be enjoyable!

Being in pain is draining, debilitating and stressful and is well known to impact on your mood.

This effects so many people.

I am often asked to give talks about the benefits of hypnotherapy which is proving highly effective for managing ongoing or chronic pain. My clients tell me that my deep relaxation techniques help them with managing their pain, increased calmness and greater well being and generally feel more energised looking forward to their day.

I have had so many requests recently that I am in the process of creating a special relaxation audio for pain management. I look forward to discussing this with you when we schedule your free consultation.

60

Please note this letter has been edited, name changed and paraphrased to ensure anonymity.

Each month the author of the published letter will receive a free consultation with AMendola Hypnotherapy. Email your letters to antonina@communitymag.co.uk or write to the usual address.

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It’s a phrase that’s thrown around a lot these days.

This time, though, it’s true for many of us, especially for those of us who are trying to run our businesses.

We are in the same boat. We will help where we can.

Just make the call.

Let’s find a way to get us all back up to speed.

Talk to Phil on

01639 698700 62

phil@communitymag.co.uk

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A Little Local Knowledge...

EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS Emergency only 999 Police (Non-Emergency) 101 NHS Direct 0845 46 47 Dental Emergency 08456 010128 Dyfed Powys Police 0845 330 2000 South Wales Police 01656 655 555 Glanrhyd Community Hospital

01639 844777

Floodline 0845 988 1188 Welsh Water (emergencies & sewerage problems) 0800 052 0130 Powys County Council 0845 602 7030 NPT County Council 01639 686868 Carms. County Council 01267 234567 Tai Tarian (NPT) 0300 777 0000 Repairs 0300 777 3000

DOCTORS SURGERIES Pengorof

01639 843221

Ystalyfera

01639 843251

Abercraf

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Dulais Valley Surgery

01639 701660

Meddygfa’r Cwm Ystalyfera

01639 844738

Meddygfa’r Cwm Cwmllynfell

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Glynneath

01639 509050

COMMUNITY POLICING (PCSO’s) Maria Edwards (Godre’graig / Ystalyfera)

07805 301533

Andrew Jones (G’neath/Cwmgwrach)

07469 907982

Aled Musselwhite (Resolven/MelynCt/Clyne)

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Emily Tennet (Banwen/Onllwyn/S.Sisters)

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David A. Thomas (Tawe Uchaf )

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Susan McNicholas (Ynyscedwyn)

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Sarah Williams (Abercraf )

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64

Glynog Davies (Cefnbrynbrain/Ystradowen) 01269 823240

AMs & MPs

Kirsty Williams AM (Brec & Rad) Jeremy Miles AM (Neath) Christina Rees MP (Neath) Fay Jones MP (Brec & Rad)

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HELP & ADVICE

Age Connect (NPT) 01639 617333 Citizens Advice 08444 77 20 20 Samaritans 08457 90 90 90 Victim Support 0845 30 30 900 Childline 0800 111 Domestic Abuse 0808 80 10 800 Welfare Rights (NPT) 01639 685225 RSPCA (Llys Nini) 01792 229435 Consumer Direct 08454 04 05 06 AfanTaweNedd Neighbourhood Watch www.atnneighbourhoodwatch.org

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HYPNOTHERAPY & RELAXATION CLINIC A Mendola Hypnotherapy 01639 730043 07971 260254

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COUNSELLING Rebecca O’Dowd Cognitive Behaviour Therapy 07568 160084 www.rebeccaodowdcbt.co.uk DENTISTS Cwmdulais Dental Centre 01639 750260 cwmdulaisdental@outlook.com

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65

To send us your articles of interest, stories, poems, photos, events and event reviews.

YOUR COMMUNITY IS WAITING! Just send them to: phil@communitymag.co.uk

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

BIG NEIL’S QUIZ ANSWERS

1 YOUTUBE 2 EASTENDERS 3 ENGLISH 4 GO TO SPACE 5 RATS 6 AVACADO 7 ROBIN 8 CORPORAL KLINGER 9 SQUID 10 POOPER SCOOPER 11 KID CREOLE 12 CAROUSEL 13 GREENLAND 14 PIG 15 BUNDESLIGA 16 SWITZERLAND 17 GUINNESS/CHAMPAGNE 18 THE WIZARD OF OZ 19 FACEBOOK 20 TURKEYS 21 TOOTH DECAY 22 LAMBORGHINI 23 APHRODITE 24 TO COOK 25 AUSTRALIAN FOOTY 26 BULL 27 *8* 28 *9* 29 TURKEY 30 BASIL

DINGBAT ANSWERS

66

1. A Rise In Temperature 2. A Score To Settle 3. Abandon Hope 4. Back Flip 5. Kiss and Make Up 6. Pain In The Neck 7. The South Of France 8. The Following Day 9. The Jokes On You 10. The Round Is On Me

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