Seaside News - April 2025 issue

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Tuesday 15th April

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Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we can accept no liability whatsoever for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions, or for any matter in any way arising out of the publication of the magazine or any of the website content. The views expressed in the Seaside News® and on the website are not necessarily the views of the publisher. No part of the magazine or website may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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NEW SUPERMARKET PICK UP POINTS AT:

Asda Bridgend, Tesco Extra (Cowbridge Road), and Sainsbury’s Bridgend.

Also available to pick up from a number of local hubs.

John

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of Porthcawl

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LETTERS

ALASKA TO ARGENTINA BY BICYCLE

Dear Editor,

Porthcawl local - Rhodri Griffiths, has completed his incredible challenge of cycling from Dead Horse, Alaska to Ushuaia, Argentina. He started his journey on 14th June 2023 in the north of Alaska, and on 23rd February 2025 his two wheels safely crossed the finish line. Completing the phenomenal distance of 19,673 miles on a pushbike with pedal-power and mental strength.

Rhodri endured the gruelling distance and even survived appendicitis in his first month of touring. He made Welsh cakes for locals, trekked glaciers, kayaked with orcas, joined an art class, and explored spectacular scenery.  He’s seen wildlife while progressing through varied landscapes. Including bears, llamas, and most recently in Patagonia - penguins. Rhodri also survived the poor driving of passing motorists and impressive elevation climbs, often on unpaved roads. He’s communicated back with friends across the globe, always in good spirits and with humour. Although the ride was a massive personal achievement, Rhodri also chose to fundraise for Mind. Rhodri wishes to thank anyone that visits his JustGiving page and followed his progress.

Total distance travelled: 31,660km

Number of days: 621

Elevation gain: 321,346 m (36.3 Everest’s)

Total punctures: 33

Chain replacements: 10 www.justgiving.com/page/ alaska-to-argentina-rhodrigriffiths

Sarah Thurston, Porthcawl

PORTHCAWL TOWN

Dear Editor,

There has been a lot of work done to make it easy and safe for people to get out of the town with walkways, crossings and even traffic lights to get to an out of town bus station and Aldi. For us that live in the town and try to support our town shops and high street it is not so. Large puddles from Lias road to Mary street and Old School road making people to have to walk out onto a main busy road to keep your feet dry.

I did complain to the council quite some years ago about this. The pavement outside the Co Op and most of John Street are a disgrace and trip hazards abound.

I would like to know why we have three excellent bus stops that are not in use at the old bus terminal close to the underpass and people standing in the open by a single pole with a timetable.

John Finney, Porthcawl

THE TRUTH

Dear Editor,

In the May Seaside News, Neil Harvey cites John 14: 6: “I am the way,  the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me..”

In John 8:32, Jesus said: “You will know the truth, and the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

If we read the Bible book of John and the other Gospels,  we will know the truth, and the truth will set us free.

C Brown, Porthcawl

Deadline date for the May issue is: TUESDAY 15TH APRIL

PORTHCAWL REDEVELOPMENT

Dear Editor,

In her article in the March issue of Seaside News, Cllr Neelo Farr painted a very rosy picture of the future of Porthcawl and, up to a point, I can see some justification for this. However she glossed over the main concern that has continually been expressed by residents, namely the proposed number of residential units planned for the town. Following the Placemaking exercise, BCBC produced a report dated March 2022, in which it recognised the “significant concern” regarding the “Amount of residential development” and the number of residential units was reduced from 1100 to 1000. Not enough, but a step in the right direction. Now, the latest masterplan shows the number has increased to the original 1100. When it comes to consultation, BCBC ‘talks the talk’ but, in my humble opinion, takes no action to actually listen to and act upon the views of residents.

Don Tickner, Porthcawl

PROPERTY

NUMBER OF BUY-TO-LET COMPANIES SURPASSES 400,000

What Does It Means for the Market?

Recent changes to buy-to-let taxation, which began in 2016, have significantly impacted landlords and property investors across the UK. But rather than selling their properties in response to these tax changes, many investors have opted to restructure their portfolios into limited companies to reduce their tax liabilities. This shift in approach has led to a dramatic rise in the number of buy-to-let companies, with over 400,000 now registered with Companies House — a 332% increase since 2016.

The rise in buy-to-let companies is not just a statistic but a reflection of broader trends in the property market. For many landlords, converting their property portfolio into a limited company structure makes sound financial sense. Limited companies can provide tax advantages, such as the ability to deduct mortgage interest as a business expense, which is increasingly important given the gradual reduction of mortgage tax relief for individual landlords.*

The costs involved in setting up a limited company and moving a property portfolio into this structure are not insignificant. However, this expense indicates that many investors are unlikely to sell their portfolios in the near future. This trend bodes well for the buy-to-let sector, as these investors are clearly committed to holding and managing their properties long-term. The increase in buy-to-let companies suggests a market that is stabilising and focused on sustainable growth rather than quick profits.

According to the latest Lettings Index, rents have grown at their slowest pace since September 2020. While this suggests a cooling in the rental market, it also provides an opportunity for potential Contract Holders (Tenants) who may find rental prices more manageable.

For those interested in understanding how these trends may impact their own property portfolios, it is important to closely monitor the market. The rise in buy-to-let companies and the shifting rent dynamics show a clear direction: the buy-to-let sector is evolving, with investors leaning towards long-term stability and planning rather than short-term selling.

This insight into the buy-to-let market underlines how landlords are adapting to new financial realities and shaping the future of property investment as there are now more buy-to-let companies than any other type of business. To stay ahead, investors should stay informed about these ongoing trends and consider how they may affect their own portfolio strategies.

* The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as tax advice. Tax laws and regulations are subject to change and can vary based on individual circumstances. We strongly recommend that you seek professional tax advice from a qualified tax advisor or accountant before making any decisions related to your tax situation or financial planning.

Porthcawl's Highest Selling Estate Agents

WE ARE DELIVERING TO: Porthcawl, Stormy Down, South Cornelly, North Cornelly, Kenfig, Maudlam, Pyle, Kenfig Hill, Cefn Cribwr, Penyfai, Laleston and Margam Village. AND NOW TO: Broadlands (Bridgend), Stormy Down & Eglwys Nunydd. NEW SUPERMARKET PICK UP POINTS AT: Asda Bridgend, Tesco Extra (Cowbridge Road), and Sainsbury’s Bridgend. Also available to pick up from a number of local hubs throughout the Bridgend County Borough.

BOOKS

BOOK OF THE MONTH IN MY MIND’S EYE BY JAN MORRIS

‘I have never before in my life kept a diary of my thoughts, and here at the start of my ninth decade, having for the moment nothing much else to write, I am having a go at it. Good luck to me.’ So begins this extraordinary book, a collection of diary pieces that Jan Morris wrote for the Financial Times over the course of 2017. A former soldier and journalist, and one of the great chroniclers of the world for over half a century, she writes here in her characteristically intimate voice - funny, perceptive, wise, touching, wicked, scabrous, and above all, kind - about her thoughts on the world, and her own place in it as she turns ninety. From cats to cars, travel to home, music to writing, it’s a cornucopia of delights from a unique literary figure.

NEW BOOKS AT PORTHCAWL LIBRARY

FICTION

THE FROZEN PEOPLE

Elly Griffiths

WE ALL LIVE HERE

Jojo Moyes

NEMESIS

Greg Hurwitz

MAKING A KILLING

Cara Hunter

OTHER PEOPLE’S HOUSES

Clare Mackintosh

MIDNIGHT BLACK

Mark Greaney

FROM LONDON WITH LOVE

Katie Fforde

OUR SWEET VIOLET

Rosie Goodwin

THE DAUGHTER

T. M. Logan

ONE NIGHT AT THE CHÂTEAU

Veronica Henry

THE IMPOSSIBLE THING

Belinda Bauer

25 ALIVE

James Patterson and Maxine

Paetro

KATE BLADON

THE MEDICI RETURN

Steve Berry

BATTLE MOUNTAIN C. J. Box

DEAD MAN’S LIST

Karen Rose

NON FICTION

NANCY’S GREEN & EASY KITCHEN

Nancy Birtwhistle

FITWAFFLE’S EASY AIR FRYER: 100 OF MY BEST BAKES, QUICK DESSERTS AND SIMPLE MEALS

Eloise Head

PICNIC ON CRAGGY ISLAND: THE SURREAL JOYS OF PRODUCING FATHER TED Lissa Evans

MINING MEN: BRITAIN’S LAST KINGS OF THE COALFACE

Emily P. Webber

READ YOURSELF HAPPY: HOW TO USE BOOKS TO EASE YOUR ANXIETY

Daisy Buchanan

Facebook: PorthcawlLibrary Tel: 01656 754845 | 01656 754850 Email: porthcawl.library@awen-wales.com pyle.library@awen-wales.com

PHOTOGRAPHS

A VISITOR FROM LEIPZIG

HIGH TIDE AT REST BAY

ST JOHN’S CHURCH

A GOLDEN GLOW

EARLY MORNING IN MARGAM PARK

THE VENETIAN FACADE IN

Steve Rosser, Bridgend

John Waller, Porthcawl

Andy Wicks, Porthcawl

Judith Holden, Porthcawl

Peter Nicholls, Porthcawl

COWBRIDGE

Judith Holden, Porthcawl

PHOTOGRAPHS

CALMING SEAS

PLANET GAZING AT REST BAY

PORTHCAWL HARBOUR

DANCING AT SUNSET

MARCH SUN OVER TRECCO BAY

Anthony Callaghan, Porthcawl

Martyn Howells, Porthcawl

Peter Jones, Porthcawl

Isla Slater, Porthcawl

Lynda Thomas, Bridgend

HALF TERM HACKING AT SKER

CONEY BEACH

MILKYWAY ARCH FROM PEN Y FAN WATCH TOWER SAIL AWAY!

Britt Henderson, Kenfig Hill

SKER HOUSE AT SUNSET

Rhys Jones, Laleston

Daniel Ryan, Porthcawl

Glynnis Morris, Porthcawl

Margaret Rogers, Porthcawl

Kevin Smith, Porthcawl

PHOTOGRAPHS

BIRDS EYE VIEW

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER

LATE WINTER SUNSET

MAID OF THE FOREST

John Hughes, Porthcawl

Alan Thomas, Bridgend

Alan Rogers, Porthcawl

Justin Badman, Cefn Cribwr

Vicky Morgan, North Cornelly

Neil Thomas, Porthcawl

RIVER TAFF TODAY IN THE SUNSHINE SANTORINI SUNSET

EARLY MORNING IN MARGAM PARK

WOODLAND BLUE TIT

Pat Thomas, Porthcawl

Peter Nicholls, Porthcawl

Justin Badman, Cefn Cribwr

Daniel Ryan, Porthcawl

Roger Smith, Porthcawl

SANDY BAY

POEMS

UNIVERSAL LOVE

If the Sun and the Moon, The stars and the rain, All get together and decide to complain, About the things that you say, And the things that you do, I’ll be standing right here with my arms round you.

For you are my superstar, My moon rocket and my racing car. I’m Romeo to your Juliet, A paragraph to your alphabet. A shooting star, an ocean wave, A chocolate bar and the break of day. And you? You’re my lady luck, My bath time soap and my rubber duck. I’m Adam to your fig leafed Eve, The cherry on your soft ice cream. A new hairstyle, a holiday, A winning goal, a tranquil bay. And if Jupiter doesn’t want to sing your song, Pluto believes that you’ve got it wrong. When Venus says it’s not your day, I’ll be there to make it all okay. For you are my fantasy, My chart topper and my symphony. I’m Napoleon to your Josephine, A waterfall to your mountain stream. An old love song, strolling hand in hand, The city lights, barefoot on the sand. And you are my deity, My good luck charm and my sanity. I’m Henry the eighth to your Anne Boleyn, But you can keep your head, ‘cos you’ll always win.

A favourite film, a bargain buy, Breakfast in bed and a baby’s smile. And if Neptune and Saturn and Mercury, Want to banish you from the Galaxy. Beam you to Mars with those little green men,

I’ll be there to bring you back again. Or if Uranus wants to be a pain, Leave you crying in the rain. Then send you up to the stratosphere, I’ll gladly leave Earth beside you, my dear. John Coutanche, Porthcawl

WHEN AN ANGEL CAME TO EARTH

An angel came down from above showed me what it was to love so suddenly before me stood on that day my world turned good. Then I knew my life could start again darkness into light the time was then looking back to how we met that day I’d suddenly found the soft words to say. One I hope to make that angel mine in the beauty of her eyes I saw a shine hand in hand I hope we’ll be I’ll remember how she set me free.

Rachel Lockwood Allen

MUM

She is the one who loves me most, and to her health I raise a toast, She gives the gift of life to me and wraps it unconditionally.

With sweet song and nursery rhymes, our enchanted childhood times,  Lifted skyward on her back, a passion fuelled power pack.

Wonders of the world to show, wrapped in soft embrace we grow.

So for her hiraeth now we yearn, as harsher lessons we must learn. Incandescent at her best, her radiance my soul attest.

How can I ever hope to be, more than what she gave to me.

Wilfy Edwards, Porthcawl

SWEET DREAMS

As another day arises

And the sun floods the earth once more Our lives are changed forever

In the grief of your mental war

Your struggle was visible

But so was your gentle smile

Recalling our precious time with you

As your case is put on trial

Amidst our anguish and heartbreak

Comfort is knowing you’re now at peace

Still grasping that you’re really gone

And that all of your tomorrow’s now do cease

A loving and gentle soul on earth

Heavenly friend, father and son

To you we raise a glass my dear

Now that this day is finally done. Tuesday Turner, Bridgend

SPENDING THE KIDS’ INHERITANCE (SKI)

Why shouldn’t we spend our money rather than leave it to you kids?

Who says we shouldn’t be having fun, with all our well-earned quids?

Yes, we’ve always been saving, but that’s for a rainy day

Now we’re thinking perhaps we should spend it, life is too short for us to delay!

We don’t want to leave you the hassle of tax returns and spreadsheets

When it might be easier to leave you, only our receipts

For all the things we’ve been spending, your inheritance on

A record to keep for prosperity, to show where all our monies have gone!

Working our way through our bucket list whilst having plenty of fun.

Buying cars, bikes and cruises. Holidays away in the sun.

Trips down to the tropics, a romantic break or two

Popping champagne corks as we travel and raising our glasses to each of you!

Of course, there’ll be times when we take you with us, off to sunnier climes

Making memories with you and the grandkids, enjoying the happiest of times.

All those hours we spent in the office, are now such a distant thought

Making the most of retirement is a subject that ought to be taught! We won’t have any regrets; there’s a treasure chest of things to do.

Whale watching up in Alaska; and swimming with dolphins too.

Snorkelling round the Barrier, islandhopping over to Greece

When our time is up, we promise, we’ll go to the care-home in peace.

Who do we think we’ve been kidding? Of course we’ll leave some for you kids! Perhaps not as much as we thought though, but ample for the grandkids.

To ease your financial burdens and help you with your living

As a token of how much we love you, of course… to you kids we’ll be giving!

Verne Farrugia, Porthcawl

OUR BUBBLE (A VILLANELLE)

In you I’ve found a love that will not end, Though our families may choose to disagree,

Like trees against the wind our lives will bend.

You are more than my lover, you’re my friend,

Now you and I are one for all to see, In you I’ve found a love that will not end.

The heart that you once broke, you chose to mend,

So many tests were set to guarantee, Like trees against the wind our lives will bend.

The world in which we live we shall defend,

Our bubble bonds our babies you and me,

In you I’ve found a love that will not end.

On each other through life we shall depend,

Some greater p’wer decreed that we should be,

Like trees against the wind our lives will bend.

Life without you I could not comprehend, The stars aligned that day you surely see, In you I’ve found a love that will not end, Like trees against the wind our lives will bend.

Claudette Evans, Kenfig Hill

APRIL SHOWERS

Close fast the heavy door to winter Shield from old Jack Frost’s stinging bite Though we’ve reached this time in March Still a fair chance for frost morning and night.

Despite the cold that chills our very bones

And thoughts of gardening are very hard to bear Young green shoots, though tender, still perform Showing true their colours everywhere.

Many varied shades of crocus crowns Swathes of vivid purple, lilacs and gold The pure white innocence of snowdrops These are no strangers to the cold.

Our emblematic daffodils Their trumpets herald in the spring Precursors to those ‘blousy’ blooms Summer months are sure to bring.

Enter April, armed with tulips

Cups full of colour on slender stems Rainbow petals bathed in sunlight Nature’s multi-coloured precious gems.

The warm sun keeps on shining When all living things need rain

Our gardens, full of thirsty shrubs Soil, parched and cracked, we pray in vain.

Eventually prayers are answered It rains and rains for hours and hours We shouldn’t complain we asked for rain It’s certainly not like April showers. Catherine Millard Payne, Bridgend

DON’T LET BOREDOM WIN

I woke up nice and early, I was in a real good mood, I wondered what this day would bring, With my positive attitude. I quickly did my daily chores, Smiling as I went, Dusting, cleaning, hoovering, Until my jobs were spent. What next said I to no-one, A cuppas the order of the day, So I sat and drank and pondered, There’s nothing left I say, So I pondered just a little more, And looked around the place, I twiddled my thumbs and tapped my feet,

As the smile slipped from my face. Oh no not now, I’m getting bored And I’d been in such a good mood, This cannot be happening to me today, I really don’t want to brood, But the sickness overwhelmed me, And the boredom filled my brain, Just nothing left to think about, This really is a pain!

We all get bored from time to time, But don’t wish your life away, So much to do and see and feel, Life’s too short, you hear? OK?

So the moral of this story is, Not to let the boredom win, Make every minute count each day, Turn that brood into a grin!

Marilyn Cook, Bridgend

POEMS

IT’S DAYS LIKE THESE

It’s days like these that make me feel so fine We are together enjoying life and you are mine

The little glances and a smile comes my way

Thanks for everything you do is all I can say

I don’t always tell you how much I feel at ease

That we made it together it was a breeze We are blessed to be this content every day

Sometimes we are apart but you are never far away

And so my love, thank you from the bottom of my heart

Thanks for making me complete even when apart

I’m always at my happiest when we are together

My love my friend my companion for ever

Kevin Bywater, Porthcawl

ANXIETY

“What’s wrong with me?” I felt his fear He didn’t mean for me to hear He had reached his tipping point again With a confused mind was he insane?

The truth was his brain was a mess

Caused by anxiety and stress He had become a recluse

Heard to shout out “what’s the use”

He could not find clarity anymore

This man was a fighter on the floor

It felt like he couldn’t cope

Desperate for someone to give him hope

This could easily be you or me

Talking about problems can set you free Don’t be afraid to share your pain

The road to a normal life again

Kevin Bywater, Porthcawl

TAPESTRY OF BYGONE DAYS

The wind, a whisper, swirled through the trees, a gentle lullaby, a soothing breeze. A babbling brook, an emerald thread, meanders through the woods, a shimmering bed.

I cherish this, my childhood home, a place of beauty for me to roam. We rose with the sun, to nature’s mind, when life was slow, and time was kind

Cottages huddled, stone and white, a painter’s palette, a burst of light. The grocer’s shop, its shelves aglow, a treasure trove of treats to show. We children played, in fields of green, our laughter echoing a joyful scene. With skipping ropes and homemade toys, our hearts were filled with modest joys.

The church bell tolls, a solemn sound, for us to gather, on hallowed ground. With simple faith, we seek his grace, in this serene, familiar place.

Above cobbled streets the stars appear, a peaceful calm, dispels all fear. In cozy homes, by firelight’s glow, stories are shared, of long ago.

With timeless charm, a joyous life, free from the bustle of city strife. The village blacksmith, with his might, shaped the metal hot and bright. The miners toiled beneath the earth, their labour’s fruit of priceless worth. A village bound by love and grace, a timeless, treasured, sacred place.

Claudette Evans, Kenfig Hill

A SILENT WITNESS

I stood in your light, enamoured, captivated by the warmth you effortlessly gave. You were the sun, radiant, and unattainable.

And I, a solitary observer in your orbit.

In the quiet of your brilliance, I saw my own shadow fade, Realising I could never be more Than a silent witness to your glow. For the brighter you shine, the smaller I become, eclipsed by the brilliance you embody.

My solitude, perhaps, was inevitable, For wherever you are, there’s light. Your brilliance fills every space, Yet beside you, I’m a shadow Cast by your glow, fading into insignificance.

So I step away, accepting That the light shines brighter without me near.

Hywel Dyke, Bridgend

WE ARE DELIVERING TO: Porthcawl, Stormy Down, South Cornelly, North Cornelly, Kenfig, Maudlam, Pyle, Kenfig Hill, Cefn Cribwr, Penyfai, Laleston and Margam Village. AND NOW TO: Broadlands (Bridgend), Stormy Down & Eglwys Nunydd.

NEW SUPERMARKET PICK UP POINTS AT: Asda Bridgend, Tesco Extra (Cowbridge Road), and Sainsbury’s Bridgend. Also available to pick up from a number of local hubs throughout the Bridgend County Borough.

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SOUTH ROAD, BRIDGEND INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, CF31 3UL 01656 330350

10 WELL STREET, PORTHCAWL CF36 3BE 01656 773932

PORTHCAWL MAYOR’S MESSAGE

The date for responding to BCBC on the regeneration of the Waterfront has passed and it was pleasing to note the high level of interest in the plans and I hope resulted in many people sending in their thoughts and comments. I regret the decision by BCBC to cease supplying blue bags for rubbish collection and hope it won’t encourage fly tipping. Many volunteers work hard to try and keep our town and beaches clean and litterfree and I encourage you all to help maintain this standard. Porthcawl will be celebrating its 200th anniversary this year and a number of events will be taking place in June. Organisations across Porthcawl are being requested to share their historical information and also to organise activities during the rest of the year using the Porthcawl 200 strapline – contact the Porthcawl Museum for details.

One key date to remember is the 80th anniversary of VE Day which is the 8th May (a service will be held at the cenotaph) with various activities taking place on Saturday 10th May. My year as Mayor is coming to a close and last month saw the last of the events for my two charities. I send my sincere thanks to all those who have helped to organise and support these events by attending and buying raffle tickets etc. I will shortly be in a position to give cheques to Porthcawl Museum and Porthcawl YMCA. Thank you again.

CLLR J PERREN OBE

Mayor Porthcawl Town Council

REPAIRING THE REST BAY BOARDWALK

I am sure readers will recall how, in November 2024, around 60 metres of the Rest Bay boardwalk was set on fire and destroyed in an attack later confirmed to be the work of vandals. The damage was so bad that a section of the route near Ffynnon-Wen Rocks had to be closed off and removed entirely. As an important link in the Wales Coast Path, this meant that we have been forced to temporarily restrict access to wheelchair users and people with limited mobility while seeking a solution. Council officers immediately began trying to source appropriate funding to construct a permanent replacement for the damaged section, and I am pleased to note that money has been successfully secured from Natural Resources Wales to support the first phase of this.

We are now in the final stages of preparing design work and pre-tender documents, and have submitted a second funding application to Natural Resources Wales which, if successful, could enable us to complete the repairs after April and within the new financial year.

This work will all need to be carefully scheduled to avoid peak periods and forthcoming events such as the Women’s Open golf championship, so I will keep you updated on further progress.

COUNCILLOR JOHN SPANSWICK

Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council

Tel: 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk

MORE POLICE OFFICERS, NOT MORE POWERS

South Wales’s Police & Crime Commissioner Emma Wools was elected at a turnout of just 16.58% last year. Unfortunately, SWP’s statistics show increases in violent crime continuing .The policing precept your household pays is included in calculating Council Tax though increases independently of what’s decided by local county councils. +7.37pc exceeds existing inflation at a time of persistent pressures on cost-of-living – contrastingly, Home Office funding settlements stand at a lot lower rate of just 3.7pc. Moreover, Welsh Government contributions fell by around 20pc over five years leaving others to take up such shortfall – PCSOs dropping down 23pc.

The PCC might justify hikes however under-resourcing won’t magically get resolved by burdening households like this, and apparent overtures of safer streets feel hollow if not noticing officers patrolling publicly. I’ve concrete concerns over how effectively this tax on residents translates to improvements in outcomes (whether prevention or catching criminals.) I’m alarmed at knife crime rising rapidly, against a national picture that doesn’t follow this trend. I’d urge Welsh Ministers push UK Labour counterparts within Westminster on more funding – not devolving more powers – because between 2010-2024 Conservative-led UK Government policing numbers rose 8.2pc though this growth has now fallen flat!

DR ALTAF HUSSAIN MS

Welsh Conservative Senedd Member for South Wales West

HELPING CHILDREN IN CARE TO REMAIN WITHIN THEIR COMMUNITIES

I was really pleased to see Bridgend County Borough Council support Staying Local, a Foster Wales campaign which aims to ensure young people do not have to move out of their local area when they enter the care system.

The campaign reflects Welsh Government’s landmark Health and Social Care Bill in promoting the benefits of local authority care as opposed to commercial care provided by private agencies.

Last year, 85 per cent of young people looked after by local authority foster carers remained in their area. However, only 31 per cent of those cared for by commercial fostering agencies stayed local, and 7 per cent were placed outside of Wales entirely.

With more than 7,000 children in the care system, Wales only has 3,800 foster families. This is why Foster Wales is aiming to recruit over 800 new foster families by 2026 to provide welcoming homes for local children and young people. You will receive continuous training opportunities and ongoing support while children and young people will be able to remain in their local areas, near their place of education, support networks and people they know. For more information about fostering and how to transfer, visit the Bridgend Foster Wales website, or email enquiries@fosterwalesctm.co.uk

COUNCILLOR JANE GEBBIE Deputy Leader

Bridgend County Borough Council 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk

EASTER OPENING PLANNED FOR COSY CORNER’S BLUE WHALE

Work is taking place to complete the final phase of regeneration for the ever-popular Cosy Corner in time for forthcoming school holidays.

If all goes to plan, this Easter, children will be able to enjoy an all new marine-themed play area, the centrepiece of which will feature a huge ‘blue whale’ play facility suitable for up to 70 users at a time and featuring a series of platforms connected by climbing nets, ladders and slides.

The whale will be accompanied by two smaller ‘boat’ features, the Calypso and the Springer, which will offer crawl tunnels, ladders and opportunities for tactile play. Additional play features such as sea life activity panels will also be introduced along with safe, soft play surfaces and more.

The new facilities will join other improvements that have already been introduced at Cosy Corner such as six new commercial units, an all-weather canopy, outdoor event space, public toilets, and changing facilities for users of the nearby marina.

Care has also been taken to retain as much green open space as possible for people to enjoy, so the new children’s play facilities should complement this to offer the best of both – you’ll be able to see for yourself very soon!

COUNCILLOR NEELO FARR

Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Housing

Tel: 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk

SUCCESSFUL FUNDING ADVICE DAY

On Friday March 7th, along with Sarah Murphy MS and Huw Irranca-Davies MS, I hosted a successful Funding Advice Day at Brackla Community Centre. Seeing so many local groups, charities, and organisations from Bridgend and Porthcawl come together to explore new funding opportunities was inspiring. Experts from The National Lottery Community Fund, Heritage Fund, Sport Wales, and many more were on hand to offer invaluable advice. Their guidance helped attendees gain fresh insights, make new connections, and develop ideas to strengthen funding applications and, hopefully, gain future funding for exciting projects and initiatives across our community.

If you could not attend the Funding Advice Day, you can still access the funding advice pack with full details of all funders online at www.chriselmore.wales

I’d like to thank everyone who donated to my Easter egg collection in partnership with Bridgend Foodbank and Awen Libraries. With donations from across Bridgend and Porthcawl, your generosity will bring joy to many local families this Easter. Bridgend Foodbank will ensure that your donation gets to a local child—your kindness and community spirit have genuinely made a difference and are very much appreciated! I wish you and your family a very happy and peaceful Easter.

CHRIS ELMORE MP

Member of Parliament for Bridgend & Porthcawl www.ChrisElmore.wales

BRIDGEND CELEBRATES ST. DAVID’S DAY WITH SPECTACULAR PARADE BY THE WELSH GUARDS

On Saturday 1st March, the streets of Bridgend were filled with pride, pageantry, and excitement as the community united to celebrate St. David’s Day.

The First Battalion Welsh Guards exercised their Freedom of the Borough of Bridgend for the first time and marched through the town, accompanied by the Regimental Band, cadets, and their Veterans Association.

Enthusiastic crowds lined the route of the parade waving Welsh flags, whilst children dressed in Welsh costume added to the atmosphere. As the parade made its way through the streets, the air was filled with cheer and applause. It was clear that this parade will leave a lasting impression on all who attended.

“The parade has truly captured the spirit of St. David’s Day,” said the Town Mayor, Cllr Ian Williams. “The presence of the Welsh Guards was a truly special moment for our community, and it was fantastic to see so many people of all ages come together to celebrate our Welsh culture.”

The event included a poignant service at the War Memorial paying tribute to St. David, the patron saint of Wales, and explaining how the daffodil and leeks have long-standing ties to Welsh culture.

The event was a culmination of months of planning and the Town Council wish to extend thanks to the organisations and staff involved in ensuring this event was such a success.

A special thanks must of course go to the Welsh Guards for bringing this celebration to the town.

Bridgend Town Council Call: 01656 815 757

SCHOOLS

NOTTAGE PRIMARY NEWS

Much is still taking place at Nottage Primary, our new outdoor classroom area is taking shape with a log circle, fire pit and lots of fresh new planting for the whole school to enjoy. Pancakes were served in their hundreds to mark Shrove Tuesday and World book day was celebrated in style and comfort as we continue to support ALL readers. St David’s day and our Eisteddfod happened all in the first week back after the half term break! Poetry and creative writing, crafts and cakes along with dressing up, dancing and a lot of rousing Welsh songs old and new were sung right from the belly of our Driag goch.

Year 4 ventured out on a 2-night residential visit to Manor Adventure, Llanwrtyd Wells participating in various adventurous outdoor activities.

Year 4 to 6 drama enrichment pupils put on a brilliant performance of ‘Beauty and the Beast’ for the whole school and their families.

Cystic Fibrosis is a condition that directly affects families in our school. These families fundraise without school help in our community all the time putting on various events and together they have raised over £500 for the Cystic Fibrosis Trustenabling vital research.

Pasg Hapus pawb!

Phone/ Ffôn: (01656) 815540

Email/E-bost: admin@nottageps.bridgend.cymru Website/Gwefan: www.nottageprimary.com

IT’S MY SHOUT - PLEASE THINK OF THE NARWHALS

Last summer a group of children from Porthcawl Comprehensive and Nottage Primary auditioned for a drama sponsored by ‘It’s My Shout’.

Louis Morris , Summer Mainwaring, Elliot Evans and Seren Leonhardt along with a few others.

It’s My Shout is an independent film production company, and training scheme, based in Wales, providing training for all ages interested in gaining experience in Film.  Founded by Roger Burnell of Porthcawl, it’s my shout produces short films for BBC Wales, and S4C, showcasing young talent who are just starting out on their creative industry journey. The drama was called “Please Think of the Narwhals” and all the children and the team did a fantastic job.  We were lucky enough to attend the ceremony and mingle with Welsh film and TV stars . The drama had a very successful evening and won best film. Louis Morris who played the main character won best actor , Seren Leonhardt won the screen stealer award. They were all winners and we had the best evening. The drama can be watched on BBC iplayer.

Debbie Cogbill

SCHOOLS

THE MAGIC OF LEARNING OUTDOORS AT ST CLARE’S SCHOOL & NURSERY

Research shows that outdoor learning boosts well-being, enhances problem solving skills, and improves focus. With St Clare’s School & Nursery’s Forest School area pupils can explore, create and grow outdoors. Rooted in play-based, child-led learning, lessons encourage curiosity, resilience and teamwork. St Clare’s Forest School sessions promote the opportunity to develop skills to manage risks and attempt new challenges which pupils would not face in a classroom. Such challenges include using tools, building fires and den making. These activities add a sense of excitement and adventure to the children’s learning, and they are free to explore and manipulate the environment around them using all their senses. The School’s stunning woodland space is used for Forest School and as an outdoor classroom, providing the perfect place in which to develop a true appreciation for the natural world. A large, secure astroturf outdoor play area provides play facilities with slides, balance bikes, scooters and climbing frames to help the development of gross motor skills. Give your child the gift of adventure and discovery! Join St Clare’s next Forest School session on Saturday 17th May at 10am. Booking is essential, so please contact our friendly admissions team today on 01656 789966 or email admissions@stclares-school.co.uk

NEWYDDION YSGOL Y FERCH O’R SGÊR

The Eisteddfod rehearsals have continued throughout February and March. The Local (Cylch) Urdd Eisteddfod was held at Tabernacle Chapel in Bridgend on 12th March. The school took nine soloists to the event, with Arwenna Davies (Year 2) coming second in the singing solo. Da iawn Arwenna, and well done to all those that competed. We are looking forward to the Regional round where the Musical performance and Choir will compete.

The whole school enjoyed a visit to St Fagan’s as part of our thematic learning. Pupils experienced visiting a variety

of buildings, ranging from farmhouses, places of worship and the Victorian schoolhouse to a row of terrace houses, the celtic roundhouse and traditional shops. Of course, no trip to St Fagan’s would be complete without a visit to the park! We are excited for the next thematic learning experience at Margam Park in the summer term.

Our Pupil Voice Committee have been very busy, visiting Afony-Felin to judge the Eisteddfod artwork and to tell the story of The Maid of Sker, and attending the Big Bocs Bwtd at Corneli Primary to learn abput reducing food waste.

For further information on Welsh-medium education, contact us: 01656 754865 or admin@yfos.pen-y-bont.cymru.

PORTHCAWL COMPREHENSIVE NEWS

It has been a busy month at PCS. There have been lots of extracurricular sport, trips and visits taking place. Recently, KS3 and KS4 pupils enjoyed a skiing trip to Voss in Norway which was a great success! In March, Year 12 pupils completed geography fieldwork and our Year 8 pupils enjoyed a Welsh language visit from ‘Mr Phormula’. More recently, pupils have participated in debating competitions, presentation skills workshops and our Year 9 pupils have completed the First Give Final. In addition, Year 8 and Year 9 have participated in leadership and teamwork activities delivered by the Royal Navy. Rehearsals and plans for our Summer School Show are underway and I look forward to sharing more information soon! Our Pupil Wellbeing Groups continue to run a range of activities across the school with our Year 9 Wellbeing Ambassadors delivering a series of events during Children’s Mental Health Week. It was lovely to welcome so many families and guests to our Annual Awards Evening in March, a wonderful community event to celebrate the rich success and achievement across our school. Finally, Year 10 pupils have recently received their English Literature Unit 1 examination results, and we are delighted with their excellent performance. Well done everyone!

Mr Stephens Head Teacher

Master’s graduate with three honours degrees offering local or online tuition. Specialising in study skills, hints and tips for extra marks, proof-reading, spelling and grammar. Assignment planning.

PORTHCAWL

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FEATURES

Last month a group of students from Bridgend College, who are studying for qualifications in Nature Conservation, spent a day volunteering on the Nature Reserve. They carried out clearance of willow and birch scrub on an area of dunes and pools which had been cleared about 6 years ago – the photos show just how tall trees can grow in 6 years. The cut material was piled in suitable spots where it will provide a habitat for birds and insects. These activities are an essential part of the students’ learning about the principles of Nature Conservation , and about the safe use of tools

As well as enhancing the biodiversity of this part of the dune system, the clearance will enable regular surveys of the pools for the protected Great Crested Newt to be undertaken. This work is important as it allows the flowering plants for which the Reserve is famous to thrive. Without regular scrub clearance , these plants would eventually disappear. Scrub and Bracken have developed widely in the last 20 years, as grazing has ceased on most of the Reserve during that time. We are re-introducing grazing by sheep and cattle on the major part of the Reserve in order to try to control the spread of coarse vegetation.

PORTHCAWL U3A

The topic of ‘Friendship’ was very appropriate for the Psychology Group session in March, as a large group of friends discussed their own experiences of friendship and why it seemed so much easier to make friends when we were children. Given the extent of loneliness within the UK and the dangers it holds for health and wellbeing, u3a provides a great opportunity to meet likeminded people on a regular basis and so form the types of friendships we remember from our younger days.

The trip on 23rd April is to Eastnor Castle in Ledbury, the coach will be ready to whisk members off for a day to tour the castle and admire the scenic views, as well as to indulge in a cream tea. It would be a shame not to!

If you fancy dipping a toe in the water and meeting a few u3a members at an informal event, there is a coffee morning held on the last Saturday of each month, at 10.30 at the Atlantic Hotel. You will be sure of a warm welcome.

If you would like to find out more about Porthcawl u3a please see the website, e-mail: info@porthcawlu3a.org.uk or phone: 07531 062146.

BRIDGEND WRITERS CIRCLE

If you love writing—whether it’s poetry, short stories, novels, memoirs, or anything in between—you’ll find a warm welcome at the Bridgend Writers’ Circle.

Writing can often be a solitary pursuit, but being part of a writers’ circle provides inspiration, motivation, and the chance to learn from others who share your passion.

We are a friendly and supportive group of writers who meet on the first Thursday of the month via Zoom to share our work, exchange ideas, with monthly prompts to encourage one another on our creative journeys.

Our members come from all backgrounds and levels of experience—some are published authors, while others write purely for the joy of it. Whatever your writing goals, you’ll find a space to grow, improve, and connect with like-minded people. While we once met in person, many of our stalwart members now face challenges with age and health, making travel to a venue difficult. As a result, we’ve embraced Zoom, which allows us to stay connected and continue supporting one another, no matter where we are.

If you’d like to find out more, why not join us for a meeting? There’s no pressure to share your work right away—just come along, listen in, and see if our group feels like the right fit for you.

For more details, feel free to contact us: bridgendwriterscircle@ gmail.com/07850 143178

We’d love to meet you and hear your stories!

Claudette Evans (Chair) Bridgend Writers’ Circle

Registered Charity No. 513595

FRIENDS OF MONZE (ZAMBIA)

Following the drought and famine of 2024, and the increased risk of future climate related events, Friends of Monze are working proactively with our partners in Zambia. Schools and communities are being encouraged to grow a variety of crops and drought resistant foods. One crop that grows during the dry season and can withstand drought conditions is Cassava. Cassava is an edible tuber that is also known as yuca, manioc and tapioca. It is a member of the spurge plant group and can be poisonous but varieties grown in Zambia are very safe to eat. Varieties are grown extensively across South and Latin America, the Caribbean and Western Africa. Cassava is not eaten raw it needs to be boiled, peeled and it can then be eaten like potatoes ie mashed, baked, casseroled or fried. It can also be ground and used as flour to make breads and it is completely gluten free. The leaves are a source of vitamin C and are also eaten in Monze. Hopefully Monze will be better prepared to cope with the next drought year without a famine. www.friendsofmonze.org

Belinda Green

SKER WI

Our speaker this month was Faith O’Sullivan along with her guide dog Buddy. She was born blind in one eye but this didn’t hold her back and she had a job as a manager at HMRC. However in 2011 she suffered a brain haemorrhage which changed her life completely. Although able to return to work she was struggling - falling over, bumping into things and feeling bewildered and anxious.

Eventually she went to see the doctor who referred her to the eye clinic and sensory care and she was diagnosed with Cerebral Visual Impairment. After two years of struggling and feeling vulnerable and isolated the doctor advised applying for a guide dog. It took three years on the waiting list for her to be paired with Buddy and it changed her life. Buddy enabled her to reconnect with the world and regain her independence and dignity.

Faith then explained how guide dogs are trained. For the first year they stay with a puppy walker who provides basic training such as toilet training and simple commands. After this they go for further training to be a guide dog. Not every puppy ends up as a guide dog but they all become some type of service dog. It was a very interesting and inspiring talk and we all adored Buddy who behaved impeccably.

We meet on the second Thursday each month in St David’s Church Hall.  Visitors are welcome to come along to see if they would like to join us.

Pam Powell

SEASIDE STITCHERS

Seaside Stitchers is a quilting group based in Porthcawl, meeting twice a month to sew, share tips and ideas, and enjoy the company of like-minded people. The group held a ‘Sewathon’ at the end of September 2024 making scrappy strip quilts based on the pattern of a Jelly Roll Race. Members donated 2 ½” strips in a variety of colours and lengths which were joined end to end to make scrappy ‘jelly rolls’. The aim was to make quilts for the charity ‘Quilts for Care Leavers’ and we had six quilts completed in time to be presented to the charity in November. The quilts were distributed by the charity to care leavers as a Christmas present. Three more quilts have now been completed and will be presented to the charity this spring.

If you are interested in joining our friendly group please contact our membership secretary Julie Doherty on 07725 797278. Margaret Goodwin, Secretary

PORTHCAWL TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD

The March meeting was taken up by our AGM. This consisted of reviewing the past year and forwarding plans for the forthcoming year. All officers and committee were elected by unanimous agreement. On re election, an emotional and heartfelt thanks was given to the members for their continuing loyalty and support.

April is truly a month of optimism as it encompasses Easter and thoughts of spring, of warmer weather and of course our speaker. Such a lot to look forward to in this month.

April 12th our speaker has given us the enigmatic title of ‘Coal Out and Copper Home’.

Debra John is a regular speaker to our meetings and this time Debra has really piqued our curiosity with this title.

We meet on the second Wednesday of the month at 2pm in The Grove Golf Club. Our members mainly consist of local ladies, so please don’t feel nervous if you are thinking of coming to visit us on your own. We will take you under our wing, look after you and introduce you to everyone.

Finally TG members would like to wish everyone a Happy Easter.

Pat Ladlow

FEATURES

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN PORTHCAWL

At our AGM in February, we welcomed guest speakers Sandra, Hannah and Mandy from Sandville Self Help Centre. It was inspiring to hear how the centre supports people with lifelimiting/life-changing conditions from across South Wales. We were delighted to donate towards their on-going work. March saw us organise a training on CPR/use of a defibrillator, with Annie and Roger from Porthcawl First Responders (pictured). A superb session – if you can, please join us when we repeat the training on Thurs 3rd April, 6-8pm at the YMCA. Everyone welcome, no charge. We celebrated the World Day of Prayer at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, with scripture readings and texts from the Cook Islands; allowing women to express their faith and speak about their lives in prayer and worship. Thank you everyone who made the event such a success. In the leadup to Easter, we are marking Lent by holding weekly bilingual reflections at Tabernacl Chapel Hall on Wednesday mornings at 10am, under the title: ‘Christian Unity in a Fragmenting World’. Everyone is welcome to join us. Our next beach cleans will be on: Sat 19th April, Mon 12th May and Thurs 12th June. Meet us outside Sussed, James St, at 11am – cuppa and cake to follow! Two extra dates for your diary: Sat 17th May: Christian Aid Coffee & Breakfast at Trinity Church, 10am-2pm -fundraising for vital projects in Burundi. Sun 15th June: A special outdoor service celebrating Porthcawl’s 200th anniversary. Pob bendith.

David Robinson

TALBOT COMMUNITY CENTRE

We could have danced all night! Following her success on Strictly Come Dancing, Angela Rippon decided to get the nation dancing. She chose Sunday, 2nd March as the day that communities get together and dance! So that’s what the Talbot did. We held a Let’s Dance afternoon. We were entertained by Silver Swans giving a display of ballet steps exercise for the over 55’s, then we had some ballroom dancing to our local DJ. During a break, we served coffee and cakes, and more cakes, then we watched the Star Line Dancers strut their stuff! We all joined in to learn a line dance, finishing with a party dance. We had fun and laughter, confusion and chaos, and to quote the late Eric Morecambe, we did all the right steps but not necessarily in the right order … Our next attempt to encourage members of the community to visit the Talbot is an Easter Sunday lunch on 20th April 2025. We will try to match our successful Poppy Day lunches when we serve a three-course roast lunch for £10 per person. Seats must be reserved, we are filling up fast. Cheryl Butcher – Trustee Email: talbotcc@tiscali.co.uk

PORTHCAWL INNER

WHEEL NEWS

Sadly, at the end of January we lost one of our long-term members Janice Jones. President MEL was unable to attend the funeral due to illness but was told that Newton Church was packed for her send off. We also lost one of our founder members, who was 103 – Beryl Thomas.

On a lighter note, one of our long term members was given a 60 Year Certificate by our Club, signed by the District Chairman Liz. Member Irene Williams was very pleased to accept this award! She had served in Port Talbot and Porthcawl Club for over 60 Years respectively.

In our February meeting Chris from the Sandville Self Help Foundation came to give us a talk, he went on to explain they were not helped by any other means except some small grants so fundraising and support from groups like ours were very important to keep the Sandville going, along with the many volunteers.

March came around so quickly! A few members attended the Rotary International Night at the Hi Tide, and in our meeting on Shrove Tuesday we were treated to pancakes for dessert. President MEL and her husband Bob had a lovely Fish & Chip Supper at Tenby Inner Wheel Club – in aid of Air Ambulance –meeting up with other members of District 15 Executives.

CC Liz Jones

PORTHCAWL LIONS

Porthcawl Lions try to concentrate on supporting local charities but, as part of a worldwide organisation, it also tries to help with disasters worldwide so the club was pleased when the success of the Porthcawl Boxing Day Run enabled it to make a donation to Lions Clubs International Fund, which distributes the donations to where they are most needed in the world.

The next event the club has is ‘Fashions for You’, a fashion show presented by Samantha B. The show is on Thursday 10th. April 7.00 for 7.30 at the Hi-Tide, Mackworth Road. Tickets are £12.50, which includes a glass of Bucks Fizz and a cake. To purchase a ticket please phone 01656786698.

On Friday 6th. June Porthcawl Lions have their annual Golf Day at the Grove Golf Club.

The entry fee is £160 for a team of four and includes lunch and prizes. If you do not wish to enter a team but would like to support the event you can sponsor a hole for £60. Details of both these events is on Porthcawl Lions website porthcawllions.org.uk

Club members look forward to seeing you at these and other future events.

JMC

DIFFY GUIDE DOG MUM

A puppy from Ogmore-by-Sea has been given one of Guide Dogs’ highest accolades. Diffy, a yellow labrador cross golden retriever bred by the charity, has been selected as a guide dog mum. It means she will not enter formal guide dog training and will instead settle with a family near the charity’s National Centre in Leamington Spa, where it is hoped she will give birth to litters of life-changing puppies.

Diffy, now 16 months old, spent her first year enjoying Ogmore’s sea air. She underwent a series of tests and checks before being identified as a candidate for the largest assistance dog breeding programme in the world. Health, behaviour and temperament were all assessed, and Diffy passed with flying colours.

Diffy’s unusual name was chosen by Graham and Anne Hinchey, who raised £85,000 for Guide Dogs during their year as Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Cardiff. They said: “We are delighted that Diffy has been chosen to be a guide dog mum. It is a real honour, and she will be ensuring that future generations of life-changers are associated with Wales’s capital city through her special name.”

Find out how you can name a guide dog puppy at www.guidedogs.org.uk/nap

Picture shows former Lord Mayor of Cardiff Graham Hinchey with Diffy, who will become a guide dog mum, plus volunteer Davina Murrant

MYNYDD CYNFFIG WI

In our March 2025 meeting we agreed discretion for our delegate when voting on the resolutions debated by national federation to adopt and campaign on. The resolution is about bystanders being lifesavers in the incidence of someone having a coronary arrest and knowing how and where to access defibrillators and give CPR to save lives.

W.I has a campaign called ‘Thinking Differently’, which seeks to raise awareness about autism and ADHD in females because they are more likely to internalise issues and are so less likely to get a correct or speedy diagnosis.

We are planning our stall for Party On The Pitch at Kenfig Hill rugby club on Saturday 21st June.

Our March speaker was Grace Sollis. We enjoyed doing decoupage, tearing up tissue and gluing it to decorative Easter eggs. It was fun, quick, simple and the results were lovely. We meet in the Talbot Institute in Prince Road, Kenfig Hill the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 14:00 and we enjoy our roles in the community. We’d love you to join us if you are interested. Happy Easter from all of us at Mynydd Cynffig WI.

Faith O’Sullivan

THROUGH CHRISTIAN EYES

“Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important.” (C. S. Lewis)

I believe the Christian faith is of infinite and eternal importance. My reasons are based on my examination of the history, archaeology and testimony of Christian faith. What do you believe? Do your reasons stand up to intelligent examination? Why not take the opportunity of finding out if the Christian faith is true or false? Why not try out church this Easter?

At Gilgal Baptist Church, Park Avenue, Porthcawl we will have something for everyone over the Easter holidays. On Palm Sunday 13th April, 10.30am a Family Service suitable for families with children, and at 5pm a guest choir and preaching service.

On Good Friday 18th April, 10am a service of Commemoration and Communion focused on the crucifixion of Jesus, followed by a procession behind a cross into Porthcawl for open air praise and prayers at 11.15am.

On Easter Sunday, April 20th, 10.30am, there will be Believers’ Baptism by total immersion of those beginning to follow Jesus. Followed by Resurrection Celebration in our 5pm service. For more information about the Christian faith please contact me at gilgalporthcawl30@gmail.com Happy Easter.

Rev. Martin Gillard BD MA

FEATURES

PORTHCAWL ROTARY NEWS

Students from Atlantic College joined DG Malcolm Hallewell and President Jeff Perrin of Porthcawl Rotary for a special International Night held at the Hi-Tide to celebrate St David’s Day. The evening also welcomed members of Brynmawr and Porthcawl Interact Clubs, who had the opportunity to network with the international students.

With over 100 guests in attendance, the event was a great success. The Atlantic College students, representing Nepal, Paraguay, Kenya, Bangladesh, the USA, Canada, Singapore, Australia, Italy, and the UAE, each gave a short presentation about their homeland and their aspirations for the future. Their inspiring stories showcased the diversity and global connections fostered by the event.

Adding to the evening’s entertainment, the cast of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat performed a selection of songs from their upcoming production at the Comprehensive School in early July. Their vibrant performance was met with enthusiastic applause.

Any surplus funds raised during the event will be donated to Fr Cashin’s Nalwei Mission in Zambia, continuing Porthcawl Rotary’s commitment to charitable causes.

This memorable night of culture, community, and international friendship was another shining example of Rotary’s dedication to bringing people together for a greater cause.

Rtn Robert Lee

NEWTON WI

We are well into 2025, and spring is here. We have an exciting schedule for meetings, events and celebrations.  We all love the camaraderie and friendship that our WI brings, and we really want to share it with other ladies who are thinking of joining us.   The following is our 2025 Newton WI meeting programme. April 2nd Ty Hafan, competition Easter Bonnet Parade & Easter Item. May 7th AGM, competition unusual jugs & pottery. June 4th ‘Hi de Hi’, competition Summer Flowers. July 2nd Porthcawl Museum, competition Holiday Item. September 3rd Fashion show, competition Harvest Item, October 1st Harvest Supper, competition Halloween, November 5th Kiln Fairies, competition Christmas decorations. December 3rd Christmas Dinner/ Buffet & Carol singing.

There are also many social events, such as Summer Outing, Summer Fayre, Christmas Party and not forgetting the weekly Monday craft group and our monthly lunch group and darts if you dare.

It is wonderful to be part of a group of ladies who celebrate each other’s good times, rally to support local causes and comfort each other during difficult times. This friendship demonstrates the incredible impact we have when we come together.

Further information contact Pam Powis on 07772 549436.

LOCAL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT SUSSED, PORTHCAWL.

Meet new people, gain new skills and have new experiences. Our work is community based and can be practical or administrative. All ages are welcome. Join our volunteers helping promote people and planet friendly goods at SUSSED.  Roles range from customer support, shop sales, street stalls; product information; stock ordering, accounts; PR, website help and events. People tend to volunteer for the shop between 10 and 1pm and 1pm and 4pm – Monday to Saturday (5pm). http://www.sussedwales.com/volunteer SUSSED, a community-based cooperative, helps to support the charity Sustainable Wales, whose current local themes are: the development of ‘Better Porthcawl’, a partnership of local groups working on regeneration of Porthcawl; providing climate- friendly talks to community groups across the area and performance, open mics and events in the Green Room.  https://www.sustainablewales.org.uk/ Call into 4/5 James Street, Porthcawl CF363BG. Or contact Margaret or Peter 01656 783962

CONNECT DIRECTLY WITH YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY - REACH AN ESTIMATED 70,000 LOCAL READERS EVERY MONTH WITH AN ARTICLE ON THESE PAGES. Email us for further information: info@seasidenews.co.uk

Surf life saving is a very diverse sport and can o er something to suit everyone! At Rest Bay we provide high quality surf life saving, swimming, ocean and beach training.

If you would like your child to learn important life saving skills, how to be safe in the sea and have lots of fun at the same time with like minded kids, then get in touch.

Nippers are aged between 7-13. As a Nipper, your child will be taught surf safety, rst aid, surf and beach sports such as wading, surf swimming, board paddling, beach ags, beach sprints and relays.

Our Youth section is between the age of 13-18. During the summer months we train at Rest Bay beach, and also at Pyle Swimming pool throughout the year. Our focus is to teach our youth how to save lives.

Lots of youth members also like to compete in regional, national and international competitions. Our youth section also train to become Lifeguards and carry out voluntary patrols as part of our training programme.

Our aim is to provide the lifeguards of tomorrow with training to help keep themselves and others safe whilst enjoying our wonderful beaches.

If you would like more information please contact:

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HISTORY

APRIL 1963

Like many governments before and since, Harold Macmillan’s Conservative government of 1963 was proving unpopular. There was a chance that the unthinkable could happen - new Labour leader Harold Wilson could become the prime minister. Macmillan’s unpopular policies were compounded by events unforeseen - scandals, and the media’s appetite for reporting them.

Scandal one. The Duke of Argyll accused the Duchess of adultery with scores of men. She denied the allegations. In court, bundles of documents, red-backed diaries, photographs and a tape recorder were produced in support of the Duke’s claims. Three Cabinet Ministers were implicated.

Scandal two. Rumours circulated that John Profumo, Secretary of State for War, was conducting an improper relationship with nightclub dancer Christine Keeler. Profumo told the House of Commons that these rumours were false. A Soviet spy, Eugene Ivanov, was also involved with Keeler. The potential for a breach in national security was obvious. Yet, Macmillan was prepared to turn a blind eye.

However, the media were developing a taste for scandal, and the nature of newspaper reporting would alter accordingly. Macmillan’s problems had only just begun.

Hannah Howe, author of Songbird, a murder mystery set in 1963 https://hannah-howe.com

PORTHCAWL 200!

STONELEIGH HOUSE – PART ONE

John Robert Thomas a contractor of the Great Western Railway, Porthcawl Dock, built Stoneleigh House on John Street around 1880 near the original railway station. The double fronted 3-storey property was built using Irish stone imported as ship’s ballast. Between 1897-1914 Fraulein Brill ran a college for ladies before it became a boarding house, then a nursing home run by the Davies family.

The towns first public drinking fountain, donated by a resident in 1903, was set into the boundary wall (photo). The boundary wall was removed due to road widening in 1912 whereafter two buildings were erected: Lloyds Bank initially occupying one. The redundant fountain is now part of the Irongate Point shelter opposite the Seabank Hotel.

Next-door to Stoneleigh the Coliseum Company built the impressive Casino Theatre which opened in July 1923 complete with second floor sprung dancefloor ballroom. In June 1924 fire destroyed the theatre which was then re-built and sold in 1927. George Beynon & Sons acquired it and after WW2 opened Stoneleigh Club as a house for private members and operated the Casino cinema, seating 850, until 1971. Interestingly, in 1947 the Samtampa inquest was held at the Casino and the last film shown was Michael Caine in ‘Get Carter.’ Chris Pugh-Bevan

PORTHCAWL 200! PART 3 (1860/70’S)

Having purchased the ‘Tondu Ironworks,’ sunk coalmines in the Ogmore Valley and formed the Ogmore Valley Railway Company, John Brogden & Sons Company now looked toward export. The Llynfi Valley Railway dock at Porthcawl became the obvious choice but needed development as did the railway line from Tondu. In 1866 The Llynfi and Ogmore Valley Railways amalgamated.

By 1867 the first Porthcawl railway station (photo) had been built at the top of New Road and on 22nd July the new Porthcawl Dock was officially opened. The first vessel to enter was the ‘SS John Brogden’ 547 tons steamer (photo) followed by ‘SS Ogmore’ and a tug named ‘Porthcawl’. By 1874, due to Brogden family differences and financial problems, the GWR had taken over operating the railway line and the dock.

On 22nd March 1872 Porthcawl received its second lifeboat, the Chaffyn Grove which replaced the Good Deliverance. In 1873

The National School, Lias Road, opened; its first master being Mr. William Rees.

Yet it was the purchase of land known as Pickets Lease by the Brogden Co. in 1865 that would be significant. This same land would be re-purchased and mortgaged in 1880 by James and Mary Brogden; upon which they would develop the town of Porthcawl.

Ceri Joseph

HEALTH

TRINITY CARE & SUPPORT

We are Trinity Care & Support (TC&S), a small charity supporting adults and children with learning disabilities, and have been operating from Trinity Church in Porthcawl since 1995. Although we are no longer officially under the Church umbrella, we maintain close links with the Church family and are forever grateful for the continuing support of its members.

COST OF CANCER

We would like to hear from you if you have any fundraising ideas and would like to share them? Please do email us on info@costofcancer.org.uk.

Here at TC&S we provide the following services within the Borough of Bridgend:

• Respite care for adults and children in the home or community.

• We support our clients with everyday tasks, plus enable participation in social opportunities and leisure activities

• Domiciliary care including personal care, shopping, domestic support

• Activity Clubs at Trinity Church on Mondays, Thursdays (9.30-3.30) and Saturday Drop-In Club (9.30-12.30).

We have many events planned throughout 2025 to celebrate our 30th anniversary and raise much needed funds to enable us to continue providing the extras that we currently provide for our club members such as day trips, dance classes, art & craft sessions.

The first event planned is a concert hosted by Sounds Familiar Mixed Choir at 7.15pm on Friday 4th April at Trinity Church. Guest Artists are Emlyn Roberts and Grace Halberta spectacular evening is promised - tickets available on 01656 782104. A strawberry tea, and a summer fete are planned later in the year.

We’d love you to come and join us, and learn more about our good work in the community, and celebrate our success over the last three decades!

ARE YOU SITTING COMFORTABLY?

Only you know how comfortable you are right now. Only you know what is going through your mind others may think they know as they notice how you act or what you say but you are the boss of your mind… Aren’t you?

Let’s examine the evidence! Would you like your mind to be clear and calm or racing with thoughts of things you would rather weren’t there maybe worries from the past or concerns for the future.

Maybe pause and take a slow breath and observe what is happening in your head, calm or racing. Would you like to choose?

What is your favourite place that you like to visit? Somewhere to physically or mentally relax. Safe and secure and perfect for you. Is this the place you remember when you wake up in the morning or before going to sleep at night or even when your day is speeding up you can take the option to pause and go to your favourite place. No one can know where you are only you. Why not give it a try? If not now, when? You might even enjoy the experience.

Be gentle on yourself.

Margaret Brown

We are aiming to help more families this year but in order to do more we will need more donations. We are only a small charity so if you are looking at raising funds for charity, why not raise money for Cost of Cancer. We are making a difference to families we just want to make more of a difference. Please do keep an eye out on our new FB page for news, information and events. It’s going to take some getting used to having a FB account as we’ve been without one for almost a year now but I’m sure it will all come back to me.

We still have the Insta page which I know isn’t the same as a FB page, but we are also looking at getting can you believe it a Tik Tok page but 1 step at a time eh.

Anyway, thanks in advance to anyone who likes, follows and share the page and for those who have already done it. You’re awesome.

Nicky, Emma & Cath Trustees

Fill each cell of the grid so that each row, each column, and each 3 x 3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9 exactly once. No guessing is required – only simple logic is needed.

FINANCE

REEVES MAKE AN INVESTOR OUT OF YOU?

Ah, Rachel Reeves, always stirring the pot with her plans to shake up the economy, right? The question is, will she convince you to swap your cash ISAs for the thrill (and risk) of stocks and shares?

So, you’ve been happily squirrelling away your £20,000 annually into a Cash ISA, and why not? It’s as safe as houses (well, almost as safe as houses - except for the fact that your money’s slowly being eaten away by inflation). It’s like the tortoise in the race: steady, predictable, and with zero risk. But here’s the thing: with interest rates falling, your Cash ISA is no longer the hero it once was. While interest rates shot up like a rocket during recent times, they’re now coming back down to Earth, and your interest rate will likely follow.

The figures don’t lie, and here’s where Rachel might be onto something: if you had invested £1,000 annually into a Cash ISA since April 1999, your money could be worth around £34,392 today. Nice, but not great – especially when you consider inflation nibbling away at that balance. Meanwhile, if you’d been brave enough to dip your toes into the world of Stocks and Shares ISAs, your £1,000 annual investment could have grown to £83,603. Now, that’s what we call a return on investment!

Yes, investing in Stocks and Shares ISAs comes with more risk - it’s the hare to the Cash ISA’s tortoise. But the longterm potential rewards are considerably higher. With Rachel Reeves contemplating reducing how much you can invest into Cash ISAs, she might be trying to nudge you towards a more

lucrative, albeit riskier, option.

So, will Rachel make an investor out of you? Well, it depends on your goals and risk tolerance. If you’re saving for something a little more distant, like retirement or education, and you’re willing to face the ups and downs of the market, a Stocks and Shares ISA could be your golden ticket. But if you’re the type who likes to sleep easy at night knowing your money’s safe, the Cash ISA is still an option (for now).

But if you fancy seeing your money grow a little faster, while keeping a wary eye on the market, you might want to take Rachel’s advice and give those Stocks and Shares ISAs a go. It could be the start of your investing adventure.

At the end of the day, the best choice depends on your personal circumstances but remember it’s not all about safety and predictability anymore. Sometimes, it’s about chasing that growth. If you would like to discuss starting your investment journey, please just give me a call. First hour free.

Email answers to: mia@abacusassurance.com

Entrants must be 18 or over *Closing date for entries is 9pm Tuesday 15th April 2025. One winner, drawn at random from a hat. Winner published in the May issue.

JOSEPHINE HUGHES DIPFA

LEGAL

PRESERVING FAMILY WEALTH

Most couples hope that their estate will pass to their loved ones eventually. But for many this will not happen unless careful arrangements have been made to protect their assets from being taken towards the end of their life to pay care home fees.

To help protect a couple’s estate, the solution may be a Will incorporating a Trust. A testamentary Trust can only be executed whilst both partners remain alive. On the death of one partner, their Will specifies that their share of the estate is placed in Trust and names the ultimate beneficiary of this share, normally their children and grandchildren. But under the terms of the Trust the surviving partner has the unequivocal right to remain living in the property and to enjoy the other assets, for the rest of their life.

On the death of the other partner the Trust comes to an end and the estate passes to the beneficiaries. As the surviving partner does not own the deceased’s share of the estate it is fully protected for the beneficiaries, so if the surviving partner requires care, or even remarries, this share of the beneficiary’s inheritance is protected.

This last point can be of particular interest to couples who have come together but have children from different partners. A Trust can help each person in the relationship ensure that their children inherit their share of the estate.

If the surviving partner wants to move they can still sell the property and the proceeds be used to purchase a new property; the terms of the Trust remain over the new property. Westminster Law assesses the circumstances of couples and arranges the Trust that will provide the best protection for them, their family and their assets.

WHATSAPP IN THE WORKPLACE

WhatsApp is a part of life these days and it has also become a popular way of group communication in the workplace. Using WhatsApp to communicate with colleagues means that problems can be resolved quickly, and as it is an informal and instant platform, it can create an approachable workplace environment.

However, there are drawbacks to using WhatsApp in the workplace; there is a risk of inappropriate messages or content being shared, including comments which could constitute bullying or harassment and may be offensive, discriminatory or derogatory to others. Also, there is a higher risk of data protection breaches, particularly in cases where employee’s personal phones are lost, stolen or hacked.

In addition, as WhatsApp is instantly accessible on peoples’ phones, there is a danger that workers feel under pressure to answer messages outside of working hours. Whilst there is no automatic legal right to disconnect in the UK, it has been recommended that business related WhatsApp communications only take place during working hours wherever possible.

It appears that the informal nature of WhatsApp blurs the line between personal and professional correspondence. Employment tribunals used WhatsApp messages as evidence in 427 employment cases in 2024, compared to 150 cases in 2019. Whilst an outright ban on informal messaging platforms in the workplace isn’t practical, employers need to ensure that they have appropriate safeguards in place to reduce the risks associated with it.

If you require any further guidance on adopting informal messaging platforms in the workplace or require our assistance in drafting policies to set out expectations required, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

The original article was written by Gemma O’Brien of Redkite Solicitors. To find out more about Gemma and the support that she can provide to you, visit her website profile here: www.redkitesolicitors.co.uk/team/gemma-obrien/

MADELINE

GARDEN & NATURE

CEFN CRIBWR GARDENING CLUB

“April has put the spirit of youth in everything!” (William Shakespeare)

In April the weather remains unpredictable. We can have everything from a heatwave to ground frost and sleet in a matter of days, so be prepared!

Cover tender plants if frost strikes to protect them, conversely, on warmer days you will need to protect new growth from slugs and snails who consider the young shoots of delphinium, hostas and lettuce as caviar!

If you are germinating seeds on a windowsill, turn the seed container round every day as they will grow towards the light and get leggy, regularly turning them helps to reduce this. Start planting out potatoes, early April for first earlies, late April for second earlies and maincrop. Maincrop are generally the largest you can grow needing 15 to 20 weeks to reach full size. You will be rewarded with large spuds that store well and are ideal for roasting, mashing and baking. Lovely!

Did you know potatoes are 80% water and 99.9% fat free and only 100 calories per medium sized spud, quite slimming really! Also they were the first vegetable to be grown in space by the crew of space shuttle Columbia in 1995.

Chris Early

We are looking for distributors to deliver the Seaside News in Broadlands, to start with the May issue.

Email us for further details: info@seasidenews.co.uk

LALESTON GARDENING CLUB

It really is spring now and milder temperatures means there’s so much to do.

With so much depressing and worrying news on TV it’s good therapy to get into the garden.   It’s time to get on with sowing and planting out in the veg patch.  Time to plant out sweet peas and plant gladiolus, when their shoots are just visible it’s usually about 90 days until they flower.  There will be seedlings to transplant,  but make sure they are protected as we can still get a frost.  It’s time to be mowing the lawn regularly now.  Bedding plants will start appearing in shops, but best advice is not to buy.  They might not survive the April weather and if they do they won’t last the summer, your displays will be over all too soon.  A good marker is to wait until mid/end of May,  plenty early enough to plant those beds for a wonderful display of colour throughout the summer months.

Laleston Gardening Club will be selling veg and annual bedding plants in May, please watch our Facebook page for announcements of what’s to come.  We are busy making plans for a celebration tea party to celebrate the anniversary of VE Day.  With the anniversary falling on a working day, we will celebrate on the May Day Bank Holiday.  April is a month of great expectations and hope for a good summer with all its bounties, Enjoy!

Susan Ford

ARTS

PORTHCAWL MALE

CHOIR

In late February Great Western Rail invited us to sing at Paddington Station to celebrate Wales Week. Over thirty choristers and the musical team caught an early train to London and sang on the main concourse of the station to a very enthusiastic audience of travellers passing through the station. This unique event received huge publicity via GWR and the film they produced of the event received over 100k views.

On March 1st. we held a St. David’s Day concert in All Saints Church in aid of the Sir Gareth Edwards cancer charity. We were supported by the amazing soprano Rhiannon Herridge who wowed the huge audience with her wonderful singing. With a significant donation from the Porthcawl Christmas Day Swim, this hugely successful event raised over £2,600 for the charity. A huge thanks to all who attended. The choir also sang following the Pyle and Kenfig Golf Clubs Veterans Society St. David’s Day Dinner. This was another highly successful evening with the audience were especially impressed by our rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody. We have been fortunate to attract a few new members over the last couple of months but are always on the lookout for any of you men out there who would like to sing and have some fun.

Email: contact@pothcawlmalechoir.co.uk Or Ian Williams 07927 219544

A FILM MAKER’S POINT OF VIEW

Those of us who grew up in the 1960s were so fortunate to have a number of excellent television shows to watch, and it is easy to forget just how good they were. I’m thinking mainly of the productions made by ITC, such as The Saint, Department S, Randall & Hopkirk (Deceased), and, perhaps most unusual of all, The Prisoner. They all had one thing in common, and that was high production values, shot mostly at Elstree or Borehamwood Studios on 35mm film. They were very well photographed, with

wonderful pictorial clarity, and they had some of the finest actors of that period appearing in them.

But what stands out for me is the quality of the music for their main titles, and the composer Edwin Astley was responsible for the first three of the abovementioned – my favourite was his theme for Randall & Hopkirk, it seemed to stand head and shoulders above all others. The music that accompanied The Prisoner’s dramatic opening sequence came from Ron Grainer, another of that era’s top composers. Is it just me, or does everything now seem very ordinary and synthesised?

Anthony Hontoir Downwood Films 07510 934299

Photo: Anthony Hontoir Deadline date for the May issue is: TUESDAY 15TH APRIL

STAG’S WORLD OF ROCK

Plenty to write about. First off, congratulations to Mat and the team on the magazine for winning the Wales Prestige Lifestyle Publication of the Year Award 2025/26. Well deserved, and thanks for giving me a space to give local original music a voice. Also, good to see Porthcawl Male Voice Choir performing in London as part of Wales Week. Member Noel Williams once asked me to join the choir, he said I’d bring the average age down 20 years. He obviously hasn’t heard me sing!

This year’s Phil Fest in memory of the late singer Phil Jones takes place at the Hi Tide on Saturday 10th May, at 5.00pm. There are several bands, including The Kettleheads, Killing Mary, C.R.A.B., Reload, Sandboys, The Reflex and more. Proceeds go to Braintrust cancer research and the RNLI, Porthcawl. Well done, Mark Jones, for putting on the event. And finally, still in Porthcawl, best of luck and success to Amanda Lloyd and her newest venue, “No. 32 Cocktails and Tapas Bar”, John Street, opening on Saturday 12th April. It’s going to be great for our town, so check it out.

Stag Marks 07549 728356

Photo: Mark Jones will rock the Hi Tide!

PORTHCAWL ART SOCIETY NEWS

Our Spring Exhibition opens on Friday 11th April with all new work being judged by our local artist (and framer) Graham Anderson. Our competition theme is ‘Boats’, so come along to vote on your favourite nautical painting. We are also finalising our programme of workshops, including sessions on still life, watercolour, dotting, and pastel.

Members meet weekly to paint and chat, on Wednesdays 1-3pm and 7-9pm, upstairs in the Old Police Station, above the museum in John Street. Please get in touch, or drop in, to find out more about joining us. The gallery is open to the public 11-3pm Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat and other days when volunteers are available. It’s free to come in and admire the talent of all our local artists. Tricia Simon, Secretary www.porthcawlart.co.uk Facebook/PorthcawlArt

PYLE & PORTHCAWL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

Our Dennis Lines Competition once again saw a collection of excellent images. The winner was Steve Jones with his first ever participation in a club competition: well done! We’re a friendly camera club with a mix of male and female members, and welcome newcomers of all ages and skill levels. It’s all very informal so if you have an interest in taking photographs, whatever you take them with, why not come along and try us, There’s no cost for your first couple of visits, so if you decide it’s not for you, there’s no commitment. We meet at St Clare’s School, Newton, CF36 5NR on Thursday evenings at 7pm. Find us on our website below where you can also find the contact details of our secretary. www.pyle-and-porthcawl-photographic-society.co.uk

We are looking for distributors to deliver the Seaside News in Broadlands, to start with the May issue.

WHAT’S ON

PORTHCAWL U3A

Provides a huge range of daytime activities for people no longer in full-time employment. It is a great way to meet people and engage in any of the over 40 fun, physical, educational, creative or thoughtprovoking activities. All of which are available free to members. Annual membership is £45. Website: porthcawlu3a.org.uk; phone: 07824 133777; email: info@porthcawlu3a.org.uk

PORTHCAWL LADIES BOWLS CLUB

Ladies have you thought of giving bowls a try? No experience necessary. We are a small friendly club at Griffin park offering free individual taster sessions, followed by free membership for a year. For more information please contact Sue Bowen 07969 813540.

PRINCE OF WALES BOWLING CLUB

We are currently recruiting experience and novice bowlers. The club is located in Penylan Avenue, Porthcawl with excellent bowling and social facilities. Please contact our Club Secretary if you are interested in joining. Elwyn Williams (Club Secretary) 01656 788345.

MONDAY

A TASTE OF YOGA, KENFIG 10.30-12pm & 6.30-8pm @ Kenfig Nature Reserve. Cost: Four Sessions £32. To book contact Angela 07980 936198 or Email: angelarock11@ hotmail.com

FIT FOR LIFE LADIES & GENTS

With Hannah Bowen. Exercise Specialist, 20yrs experience, @ Awely-Mor Community Centre Porthcawl. Zumba Gold 12.45-1.45pm. Functional Mobility & Flexibility 2.003.00pm. Also Thursday’s Functional 5 Circuit 9.30-10.30am. Call: 07886 487853. Facebook: Porthcawl Fitness Classes.

KENFIG HILL & DISTRICT MALE VOICE CHOIR

New members can join us at rehearsals on Monday and Thursday evenings from 7-9pm at The Choral Suite, Greenacres Motel, 111 Heol Fach, North Cornelly, CF33 4LH. Find us on Facebook, or https:// www.kenfighillmalechoir.wales Or contact the secretary Tony Ulberini at tonyulberini@gmail.com Tel: 07866 742452 Or Terry Thomas, Chairman kenfighillmvc@gmail.com. Tel: 07577 406605.

ROTARY PORTHCAWL

Meets Mondays @ 1pm, The High Tide, Mackworth Road, Porthcawl, CF36 5BT. New members always welcomed. Further information contact Andrew Singer on Telephone: 01656 785628 Mobile:07817 095992. Email: andrewbsinger@icloud.com Website: https://www.rotary-ribi.org/clubs/ homepage.php?ClubID=953

TUESDAY

INNER WHEEL PORTHCAWL

First Tuesday of the month, except August, @ 1pm in the Hi-Tide, Mackworth Road, Porthcawl, CF36 5BT. New members are always welcomed. Further information contact Liz Jones on 07805 415718.

PORTHCAWL COMMUNITY CHORUS

The benefits of singing together are enormous – clear lungs, positive outlook, friendly cooperation – so why not come along and ‘sing for joy’ each Tuesday afternoon, 1.30-3pm, at Gilgal Baptist Church Hall. You can be assured of a friendly welcome. No auditions required and no need to read music. A wide variety of songs are sung. Just turn up, or contact Maggie Jemmett on 07932 793 355 or Maggie.jemmett@live.co.uk

PORTHCAWL LIONS

Meet at Hi-tide 1st and 3rd Tuesday’s of the month, 7.30pm. See website: www.porthcawllions.org.uk Or call: 01656 784939.

PORTHCAWL MALE

CHOIR

New members welcome. Rehearsals Tuesday & Friday evening 7-9 pm at Lady Of The Sea Catholic Church, New Road, Porthcawl. Further details contact either Choir Secretary, Noel Williams at (noel. williams185@btinternet.com) 07902 333559 or Public Relations Officer, Ian Williams (ianwilliams54@sky. com) 07927 219544. Check out our website and Facebook page for further details.

RISING STARS

A free after-school children’s choir for ages 8-11. Each session will include singing of course but also: drama improvisation; movement to music; and various rhythm and vocal reading skills using instruments and hand signs.

Meets every Tuesday, except school holidays, 4:30-5:30pm, with arrival from 4.15 at Gilgal Baptist Church Hall. Further information, please contact Maggie Jemmett on 07932 793 355 or email Maggie.jemmett@ live.co.uk

SOUNDS FAMILIAR

Simply easy to join us! We sing a huge variety of music in English and Welsh! We are seeking men to fill our spaces in our BASS and TENOR sections. 7pm to 9pm,upstairs in The United Services Club, on Station Hill in Porthcawl. Contact choir secretary Pet Mathias on 01656 772451.

WEDNESDAY

FUN & FRIENDLY NEW GROUP

Come find your voice at FREE singing group Wednesdays 11 -1pm in Awely-Mor Community Centre. You don’t need any experience and it’s loads of fun. To book contact helo@taniocymru.com 01656 729246. Funded by the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund, in partnership with Bridgend County Borough Council and Awen Cultural Trust.

BRIDGEND SOROPTOMISTS

We meet at Heronston Hotel 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month 7pm. See website sigbi.org/ bridgend-and-district Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ BridgendSoroptimists. New members welcome.

COR BRO OGWR, BRIDGEND

A mixed choir based in Tabernacle Church, Derwen Road, Bridgend CF31 1TH. Rehearsals are 7-9pm. No audition required. www.corbroogwr.com Contact: 07972 245089.

NEWTON WI

We meet on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 7pm. Venue: Scouts Hall, Woodland Avenue, Porthcawl. Visitors welcome.

PORTHCAWL ART SOCIETY

Weekly workshops at 1pm and 7pm. New members welcome. Art Gallery open most days 11-3pm. Above the museum, Old Police Station, John Street. www.porthcawlart.co.uk

PORTHCAWL FLORAL ARRANGEMENT SOCIETY

Fancy creating exciting floral displays? Join our friendly group at Awel Y More Centre, Hutchwns Terrace, Porthcawl, CF365TN. We meet on 2nd /4th Wednesdays at from 1.30 to 3.30. Beginners and visitors welcome. We have tuition, demonstrations and social events. See our Facebook page or call Alison on 07581 048448.

PORTHCAWL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY - RUN BY GARDENERS FOR GARDENERS

The garden shop in Heol-y-Goedwig will be closed from 16th November and in December, but will RE-OPEN on Sat. 11th JAN 2025. 9.00am to Midday, then EVERY Sat and Wednesday. A range of SEED POTATOES at only £1.75 per kg will be available, plus a wide selection of packets of seeds, ground covers, fertilizers, pest control sprays, and more. All welcome to visit, advice freely given.

PORTHCAWL STROKE CLUB

Meeting at the Masonic Home 2-4pm. Seeking volunteers who are CRB checked, or are prepared to have one. Contact Chairman Mr Keith Duggan & Mrs Mary Duggan on (01656) 773376 or 07484 250988.

SLIMMING WORLD, PORTHCAWL

Scout Hall, Woodland Avenue, Porthcawl, CF36 5HW 9.30am. Contact Millie - 07765 040006.

THURSDAY

BRIDGEND MALE CHOIR

Do you enjoy singing? The Choir Practice, 7.30 – 9.30pm at Oldcastle Primary School, South Street, Bridgend every Thursday. Why not come, have a listen and check us out. New members and visitors very welcome. Contact Mike Johnson, 07938949194 or www.bridgendmalechoir.co.uk. Motto - Friendship through Music.

GILGAL COMMUNITY HUB

Park Avenue church cafe, Thursday term times, 2pm until 4pm. Everyone welcome for refreshments and friendship or knitting to help different charities. Contact Jacqui on 07773 342426.

PORTHCAWL GLEE CLUB

Our informal, relaxed and upbeat modern social singing group welcomes you to raise the roof and lift the spirit at Newton institute 6.30pm for £5 (first session free) Sarah.milligan@gwella.org.uk

PYLE & PORTHCAWL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

Meetings at St Clare’s School, Newton, Porthcawl CF36 5NY. Thursdays at 7.15pm. Sept. to May inc. We’re a very friendly camera club with a mix of male & female members and welcome new members of all ages and skill levels. www.pyle-and-porthcawlphotographic-society.co.uk

SKER WI

We meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 7pm in St David’s Church Hall, Porthcawl. Visitors are most welcome.

SLIMMING WORLD, KENFIG HILL

Talbot Community Centre, Kenfig Hill 7.30am, 9.30am and 5.30pm. Contact Millie: 07765 040006.

FRIDAY

SLIMMING WORLD, PORTHCAWL

Scout Hall, Woodland Avenue, Porthcawl, CF36 5HW 9.30am. Contact Millie - 07765 040006.

SATURDAY

LALESTON GARDENING CLUB

Varied activities throughout the week. Located at Cliff Cottage, Laleston, next to the Parish Church. Open every Saturday 10am-12noon. Please call in. Visit our website: www.lalestongardenclub.co.uk Or our Facebook page.

PORTHCAWL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

RUN BY GARDENERS FOR GARDENERS.

The garden shop in Heol-y-Goedwig re-opened on Sat. 11th JAN 2025. 9.00am to Midday, then open EVERY Sat. and Wednesday. A wide range of SEED POTATOES at only £1.80 per kg is available, as are onion sets and shallots, plus a wide selection of packets of seeds at advantage prices; also ground covers, fertilizers, pest control sprays, and more. All welcome to visit, advice freely given.

PYLE & KENFIG HILL VETERANS ASSOCIATION

Royal British Legion Pyle Club, 10:00hrs-12:00hrs. Serving personnel, veterans and their families. Support, networking and advice available from peers. Refreshments availablefood and beverages.

SUNDAY

PORTHCAWL COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA

Rehearse every Sunday, 6-8pm in Awel Y Mor centre, Hutchwns Terrace, Porthcawl CF36 5TN. Visit: www.porthcawlorchestra.co.uk to find out more.

Children are encouraged to experiment and explore through planned adult led activities, and

play, at

WHAT’S ON

Saturday 12th April

EASTER COFFEE MORNING

@ Newton Institute at 11am.

There will be a raffle, cake stall, tombola & most importantly an Easter Bonnet Competition for adults & children – with prizes for 1st , 2nd & 3rd place.

Admission 50p includes tea/coffee.

Saturday, 12th April

CÔR BRO OGWR’S SPRING CONCERT

At 7pm, Capel y Tabernacl, Derwen Road, Bridgend

On the 12th of April, Cor Bro Ogwr will be performing John Rutter’s beautiful Requiem, along with The Lord’s Prayer, in Czech, by Janacek, a selection of Welsh songs by Mansel Thomas, and My Love is like a Red Red Rose by Morfydd Owen. Ben Teague will accompany the choir on the organ, and Angharad Edwards on the harp, with soloists Rhys Archer (tenor) and Helen Lewis (soprano), led by our Musical Director, Ben Pinow.

Tickets are £12.00 on the door, or through choir members. We very much hope you will be able to join us on the 12th April to welcome in spring!

Saturday 19th July

JOIN THE MUMBLES 2 MULES CHARITY WALK

We’re aiming for a record year, and we need your support!

The Mumbles 2 Mules Charity Walk, in aid of the Sandville Self Help Foundation, offers two scenic routes: a 15 mile route from Verdi’s Café (Mumbles) to Remo’s (Aberavon) or a 25 mile route to Kenfig Hill Rugby Club. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the

stunning coastal views while raising vital funds for those who have a life limiting or life changing condition.

Key Details

Date: Saturday, July 19th, 8:30am start

Routes: 15 miles or 25 miles

Sign-up deadline: June 19th

Registration includes: T-shirt, medal, guided walk, water, refreshments, and medical support.

After the walk: Food, entertainment, and a fun after-party at Kenfig Hill RFC!

Why take part?

The Sandville Self Help Foundation provides essential services like hydrotherapy, mobility support, and complementary therapies for people with conditions like cancer, Parkinson’s, stroke, MS, and more. They rely solely on donations to continue this important work.

This is where you come in – we need YOU and your family, friends, and local businesses to take part and help us reach new heights this year! Together, we can make a huge impact and ensure no one faces these challenges alone.

Don’t miss out – sign up by June 19th and walk with us for a cause that truly matters.

https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/ Mumbles2MulesCharityWalk2025

Surf life saving is a very diverse sport and can o er something to suit everyone! At Rest Bay we provide high quality surf life saving, swimming, ocean and beach training.

If you would like your child to learn important life saving skills, how to be safe in the sea and have lots of fun at the same time with like minded kids, then get in touch.

Nippers are aged between 7-13. As a Nipper, your child will be taught surf safety, rst aid, surf and beach sports such as wading, surf swimming, board paddling, beach ags, beach sprints and relays.

Our Youth section is between the age of 13-18. During the summer months we train at Rest Bay beach, and also at Pyle Swimming pool throughout the year. Our focus is to teach our youth how to save lives.

Lots of youth members also like to compete in regional, national and international competitions. Our youth section also train to become Lifeguards and carry out voluntary patrols as part of our training programme.

Our aim is to provide the lifeguards of tomorrow with training to help keep themselves and others safe whilst enjoying our wonderful beaches.

If you would like more information please contact:

SEA & SPORT

PORTHCAWL RNLI LIFEBOAT VOLUNTEER TO RUN THE LONDON MARATHON

Porthcawl RNLI volunteer helm, Nathan Evans is running this year’s London marathon on Sunday 27 April having secured a ballot place. Nathan has chosen to use the opportunity to run the marathon to raise vital funds for the lifesaving charity which has been a big part of Nathan’s life. Nathan’s family have a longstanding connection to the RNLI lifeboat station in Porthcawl with his grandfather Ken Evans and Ken’s brothers Mike, Ray and David all joining in the early days of the station when an inshore lifeboat station was first established in Porthcawl in 1965. Nathan originally joined the crew in 2006 having spent a lot of time around the station as a child and then rejoined in 2011 following an interim at university. His experiences at Porthcawl RNLI have led Nathan into an enjoyable career as an RNLI staff member where he currently works as a maritime operations quality lead, a role which ensures operational standards across the RNLI’s 238 lifeboat stations around the UK and Ireland.

To follow Nathan’s marathon training updates and look out for opportunities to join him on a training run visit the instagram account: @marathonlifeboatman

To donate in support of Nathan: https://2025tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/nathanevans-db573

PORTHCAWL RNLI RESCUE FISHERMAN CUT OFF BY THE TIDE AT OGMORE BY SEA

Porthcawl RNLI’s volunteer crew were tasked by HM Coastguard on Sunday 9 March to assist a fisherman who had become cut off by the tide on rocks at Ogmore By Sea.

The charity’s D Class lifeboat Hugo Missen was launched on service and the crew were able to get the lifeboat alongside the rock to rescue the fisherman and his equipment and took him onboard the lifeboat.

The Atlantic 85 Rose of the Shires also launched to the incident to support the D Class and transferred the fisherman back to the lifeboat station.

Despite getting a little wet whilst on the rock the fisherman was in good spirits and was able to return home from the lifeboat station otherwise unharmed.

If you’re heading to the coast always check tide times before you go. Carry a means to call for help such as a mobile phone. In a coastal emergency dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

To support Porthcawl RNLI’s volunteer crew and help power the crew to their next rescue: https://fundraise.rnli.org/fundraisers/Porthcawl

PORTHCAWL COASTGUARDS

It’s been a steady start to 2025 for the Porthcawl Coastguard Rescue Team. Whilst traditionally the start of each year is a quiet time of the year, the team has been busy revalidating and updating their training. This has included training in areas such as casualty care, water rescue, driving skills and Search and Rescue techniques. Keeping up to date with all of these skills is a vital part of being in a busy HM Coastguard Rescue Team. In addition to revalidating key skills the team have been carrying out regular weekly training which often involves acting out scenarios and working alongside our colleagues in the Port Talbot Coastguard team.

Porthcawl Coastguards have so far responded to seven incidents where the coastguard’s assistance has been requested. This has included assisting persons and animals in the water and assisting persons on the coast with physical injuries.

We are also gearing up for a recruitment drive starting on 01st April 2025. If you have ever considered joining a team of volunteers to give something back to the community and provide an essential service then we would love to hear from you. Please contact us for an informal chat or join us for an open session coming soon, details of which will be up on our Facebook page for Porthcawl Coastguard soon.

NEPTUNE’S PIRATES BEACH CLEANS

There’s a lot more to cleaning a beach than you may think. We couldn’t do it safely without having the right gear, and the good stuff is very expensive. So along with our regular crew who turn out to clean Coney Beach we want to say a massive thank you to the Porthcawl Christmas Swim Charity too. For the third year in a row, they have donated to our cause resulting in another 10 heavy duty pickers replacing some of our oldest work horses. We have been using some of our pickers for the last four years, and you can only replace parts and fix them up so many times. We put our pickers to the test far more than most as they have been used over 70 times since we started, through all weather and some pretty rough terrain, we just couldn’t clean our beaches without them. We are amazed how abrasive just sand alone is…and all the places it gets! So, a huge thank you to all our donors and all our volunteers who turn up whatever the weather. The difference you are making to the lives of the voiceless is incredible. Each piece removed from the beach makes a difference for those who live there.

If you’d like to join us on any of our beach cleans, please check our ‘Captain Paul Watson Foundation UK’ FB page or the PantriBox window for dates and times. Or get in touch at southwales@paulwatsonfoundation.uk It’s for the Oceans! Elkz, Porthcawl

PORTHCAWL NCI REPORT

National Coastwatch Institution is a charity, staffed and managed by volunteers whose mission it is to help save lives at sea and around the UK coastline. We work alongside HM Coastguard, RNLI and blue-light emergency services. This Easter weekend, look out for volunteers around Porthcawl collecting cash donations in buckets (Friday 18, Saturday 19, Monday 21 April). We are hoping for warm, dry weather for our booksellers outside the watchtower, too – a major contributor to our finances.

Some watchkeepers don’t like the word “quiet” when it comes to watches. (Superstitious? Maybe!) With less people on beaches in winter, we often see more wildlife, including the occasional seal pup, and migratory sea birds. (A rare sighting of a Bonaparte’s Gull was reported on the Ogmore estuary recently).

British Summer Time began on March 30th. Later sunsets and longer daylight hours mean that our station opening hours increase to 08:30-20:00. Easter is late this year (the date ranges

from March 22 to April 25, and Easter Sunday is 20th April), so hopefully the weather will be good, as Porthcawl welcomes tourists and daytrippers. Our watchkeepers will have plenty of activity to keep them busy on their four hour long watches!

Debs Gurton

Media Officer, Porthcawl NCI

PORTHCAWL CHRISTMAS MORNING SWIM

Whilst the small Committee that organise the Porthcawl Christmas Morning Swim enjoy the event itself, their favourite time is when they hold the Presentation Night and distribute the funds raised to various local charities and organisations. The generosity of our swimmers, spectators, advertisers and sponsors meant that the 59th Porthcawl Christmas Morning Swim raised an incredible £12,500 for our chosen beneficiaries. On top of this, thousands of pounds were raised for other charities through online donations on pages set up by individual swimmers. We estimate that the 2024 Swim raised over £15,000!

The Presentation Night took place at the Hi-Tide Porthcawl on Friday 21st February and was attended by representatives of the 22 charities and organisations who were receiving donations.

Hosted by Chairman of the Christmas Swim Committee, David King MBE, attendees got to hear all about the amazing work carried out by the various groups in and around Porthcawl and how the donation they received will help them support more people.

This year’s headline charity was Alzheimer’s Society Cymru. Regional Fundraiser Jess Bowring along with Dementia Adviser Corrie came along to collect the cheque for £5,500 and share the difference such donations make to those living with dementia and their families.

2025 will see the 60th Porthcawl Christmas Morning Swim taking place. If you’d like to help by volunteering or through sponsorship, please get in touch.

Email – enquiries@christmasswim.org

Phone – Lucy Hughes – Secretary - 07888 801881