SEASIDE NEWS: January 2024 issue

PORTHCAWL & BRIDGEND EDITION

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ISSUE 288 JANUARY 2024

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YOUR ARTICLES, VIEWS, NEWS & REPORTS View the magazine online at: www.seasidenews.co.uk or via

ISSUU

CONTENTS

WHERE WE DELIVER

LETTERS................................................. 8-9 PUZZLES.................................................. 12 PROPERTY............................................... 13 BOOKS...................................................... 15 PHOTOGRAPHS.............................. 16-23 ARTS................................................... 24-25 POEMS............................................... 26-29 SCHOOLS.......................................... 30-31 NEWS................................................. 34-35 FEATURES......................................... 36-41 HISTORY................................................... 43 HEALTH.............................................. 44-45 FINANCE............................................ 46-47 LEGAL................................................. 48-49 GARDEN & NATURE....................... 50-51 WHATS ON........................................ 52-55 SPORT & SEA.................................... 57-59 TIDES.................................................. 59-60 DIRECTORY............................................. 62

Door-to-door delivery to 99% of homes in the following areas: Porthcawl, South Cornelly, North Cornelly, Kenfig, Maudlam, Pyle, Kenfig Hill, CefnCribwr, Penyfai & Laleston.

DEADLINE DATE FOR THE FEBRUARY ISSUE IS: MONDAY 15TH JANUARY

16

And now available to pick up from selected outlets in the following towns: Broadlands, Whiterock, Bryntirion, Cefn Glas, Litchard, Coity, Brackla, Ewenny, St Brides Major, Southerndown & Ogmore by Sea.

PICK UP A COPY

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Available to pick up from the following places: Porthcawl Library, Nottage Stores, Rest Bay Cafe Bar, Beale’s Fish & Chips, Bargain Booze Newton, Grove Golf Club, Kenfig Nature Reserve, Pyle Garden Centre, The Great House Laleston, One Stop Bryntirion, Phil’s Cafe Bridgend Industrial Estate, Pendre Post Office/ Newsagents, Cefn Glas Fish Bar, Nat West Bank Bridgend, POW Hospital Bridgend, Halo Bridgend, Coity Post Office.

SEND US YOUR ARTICLE 30

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Seaside News® is published by Seaside Publications Ltd. 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. Any breach of copyright will be taken extremely seriously. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any article, advert or website listing without reason. Copyright © Seaside News® 1998-2024 VAT Registration No: 879 7077 54 | Seaside Publications Ltd is registered in Wales, company number 09413904.

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LETTERS

Have your say info@seasidenews.co.uk

THANK YOU FROM PORTHCAWL JOY-RIDERS Dear Editor, The Porthcawl JOY-riders recently received a combined charitable donation of £4465 from the 2 Coops in Porthcawl- the one in New Road and the other in Lias Road.

To acknowledge and thank the Co-op for their kind generosity, we, The Porthcawl JOY-riders visited both stores on 23/11/23 with our trishaws. I enclose a selection of photos taken on the day at both Co-ops. If you only choose to publish one photo, could you please make it the first one below, where our manager receives a cheque from the Co-op manager with the following text: The Porthcawl JOY-riders organiser, Steve McCreery, is seen being presented with a cheque for £4,465 on 23/11/23, as a very generous donation by Steve Evans, a manager at the New Road Co op store, on behalf of the Co-op. Since Steve McCreery founded the Porthcawl Joyrides, in 2022, as part of the Cycling Without Age group, we have provided a much appreciated free of charge service, not just to local care homes, but to the wider Porthcawl community.

Anyone who feels they would like to become more involved with Porthcawl JOY-riders, please contact Steve at smccreery@hotmail.co.uk or 07791 101081.

POPPY APPEAL - THANK YOU Dear Editor, Porthcawl Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal would like to thank everyone who kindly donated money to our November 2023 collection. The breakdown of the collections are as follows: - Donations £9,202.99; - Wreaths £1,146.00; - Schools £1,035.99; - Contactless £1,100.00.

Total = £12,484.85 Army Cadets - £1,800.63 Sea Cadets - £570.38 St Johns Ambulance - £93.43 Thank you to Gloria Jones Poppy Appeal Organiser for arranging all the collections at the Aldi Store and the Co-op Store in Porthcawl, as well as all the volunteers who made the collections. Also, thank you to all the people who gave so generously.

Raymond Street, Chairman Porthcawl Branch Royal British Legion

MEADOW LAKE PORTHCAWL Dear Editor, Just take a walk around Meadow Lake; it’s a real pleasure! The work carried out by JJ (I think that is what he goes by) and his work mates have done wonders. They should be given an award for all their hard work. Happy New Year to them and all Seaside News readers.

Susan Chivers, Porthcawl

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seaside news | 11

PUZZLES

Puzzle solution: Puzzle # 6247 Nov-20-2023

Sudoku

8

6

3

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1

7

2

9

5

4

1

7

9

5

2

8

6

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2

www.sudokukingdom.com

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.

Daily sudoku puzzle # 6267 Dec-10-2023

6 1 9 5 3 7

9 3 7 5 8 4 2

5 8 4 2 1 9 6

3 5 2 8 7 6 1

8 7 6 3 4 2 9

6 1 9 4 3 8 5

7 2

9

3

1

5

5

7 3

2 5 8

8 6 9 1 4

7

9 9 8

3

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4 5

3

Page 2/2

Page 1/2

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Word Search

Hint: Words can be found horizontally, vertically, diagonally and also backwards.

1

6

6

2

5

4

7

5 2

9

9

1

December Answers

7 9

4

Find names of 20 Popular Star Wars Characters: ANAKIN - STORMTROOPER - BOBA - PALPATINE - OBI-WAN KENOBI - CALRISIAN JANGO - FETT - YODA - QUI-GON - SKYWALKER - CHEWBACCA - SABE - JINN LUKE - WICKET - LANDO - LEIA - PADME - YADDLE

PROPERTY BUYER BEWARE NO MORE? Before the financial crash of 2008 many house hunters would have been familiar with the term ‘buyer beware’ (also known by its Latin term ‘caveat emptor’) which in effect places the responsibility on the buyer to conduct thorough due diligence and inspections before completing the purchase as it was widely accepted that it was up to the buyer to uncover any potential issues or defects with the property before finalising the transaction.

Fortunately in 2008 while most of us were trying to navigate our way through the credit crunch we were introduced to the Consumer Protection Regulations which we refer to simply as CPR. This combined an exciting new principle called Material Information which basically means that Estate Agents are not allowed to omit any information that the average consumer needs to make an informed decision about a particular transaction.

This of course was great news for buyers but it put most of the responsibility onto the Agent and in some cases Agents were taking the view that ‘less is more’ IE. sometimes agents were not asking sellers key questions as they would have to disclose the answers to potential buyers. This approach disadvantaged the buyer and often cost them time and money whereas if they had the relevant information up-front they may not have entered into a purchase in the first place.

Fast forward to 30th November 2023 and we have seen substantial changes to Material Information legislation & in particular parts B&C. Whilst this puts more onus onto the seller it means a little more due diligence by the agent prior to a

property going on the market but ultimately gives buyers more information upfront.

So what has changed?

Lots has changed in reality but I will speak about the main parts that most people will notice when searching for a property and these relate to section B. Agents now need to disclose Physical Characteristics, so if a property is detached or semi-detached etc. Agents will also need to disclose Material Constructionif it has a thatched roof for instance or cladding/asbestos.

Disclosure is also needed for the primary source of utilities including broadband and mobile coverage along with the parking status at the property and if it requires a permit etc. It gets much more complicated when we look at section C as this covers things such as listed buildings, restrictions & rights, flood risks and planning permission etc. but for most, this section is likely to reviewed only by serious buyers and it is better for them to have this information from the beginning instead of risking them pulling out or trying to renegotiate their offer at a later stage. So in short- this is great news for buyers and sellers with the only drawback being the amount of information needed prior to a property going on the market but it should speed up sale process and leave us with serious buyers but be warned for more paperwork upfront.

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BOOKS BOOK OF THE MONTH THE WOMAN IN Me by Britney Spears

NEW BOOKS AT PORTHCAWL LIBRARY INHERITANCE FICTION Nora Roberts

The Woman in Me is a brave and astonishingly moving story about freedom, fame, motherhood, survival, faith, and hope.

In June 2021, the whole world was listening as Britney Spears spoke in open court. The impact of sharing her voice—her truth— was undeniable, and it changed the course of her life and the lives of countless others. The Woman in Me reveals for the first time her incredible journey—and the strength at the core of one of the greatest performers in pop music history.

Written with remarkable candour and humour, Spears’s ground-breaking book illuminates the enduring power of music and love—and the importance of a woman telling her own story, on her own terms, at last.

DEADLY GAME Michael Caine

THE CAGE Quintin Jardine

THE BALL AT VERSAILLES Danielle Steel

THE WONDER OF IT ALL Barbara Taylor Bradford

THE WATCHMAKER’S HAND Jeffrey Deaver

THE FIRST 48 HOURS Simon Kernick

UNNATURAL DEATH Patricia Cornwell

NON FICTION

I REMEMBER PARIS Lucy Diamond

MY ACCOUNT Coleen Rooney

FOURTH WING Rebecca Yarros

BARRY CRYER: SAME TIME TOMORROW? Bob Cryer and Sandi Toksvig

ALIBI Lynda la Plante

RICK STEIN’S SIMPLE SUPPERS Rick Stein

THE GUERNSEY GIRLS Mary Wood

WHAT IT TAKES: MY PLAYBOOK ON LIFE AND LEADERSHIP Sarina Wiegmans

THE TUDOR DECEPTION Scott Mariani

CHILDREN’S LITERATURE FESTIVAL

February Half Term (Saturday 10th – Saturday 17th) Staff are busy preparing for the return of the Children’s Literature Festival. Please asking in branch for details of forthcoming events.

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

BYT presents: BYT yn cyflwyno:

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seaside news | 15

PHOTOGRAPHS CHOUGH GRACING PORTHCAWL

SUNSET IN FRANCE

Steve Rosser, Bridgend Lili Daly (age 14), Bridgend

LOCAL BRANCHES

SUNSET AT KENFIG

Anthony Callaghan, Porthcawl

Karen Baker, Kenfig Hill

NEW HORIZONS

STARY TREE

Tracey Wiliams, Porthcawl

Josh Lia, Porthcawl

16 | seaside news

Email us your pictures info@seasidenews.co.uk

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seaside news | 17

PHOTOGRAPHS SUNSET OVER GREEN AVENUE

BEAUTIFUL BEECHES AT GLANRHYD

Patricia Capron, Porthcawl

CHANGING COLOURS AT MARGAM

Pat Lathey, Penyfai

PORTHCAWL SEAFRONT

Sian Vine, South Cornelly

GINNY’S FIRST SNOW

Sharron Daly, Bridgend 18 | seaside news

Daniel Ryan, Porthcawl

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REFLECTIONS OF BETTER DAYS

PORTHCAWL DOCTORS SURGERY

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seaside news | 19

YOUR EXPERTS IN PROPERTY CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATIONS Turner & Morgan Developments Ltd is a professional, local building firm covering Bridgend, Porthcawl and Port Talbot areas.

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PHOTOGRAPHS

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TENBY WINTER SUNSET

ST JOHN’S CHURCH

Alan Thomas, Bridgend

Kerry Wilce, Porthcawl

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PHOTOGRAPHS TENBY CHURCH

WINTERY RAINBOW OVER SANDY BAY

Rodger Garratt, Porthcawl

OWAIN GLYNDWR IN CORWEN

Alan Thomas, Bridgend

SKER RIVER

John Osborne, Porthcawl

SEND US YOUR PHOTOGRAPHS Email: info@seasidenews.co.uk Graham Evans, Porthcawl 22 | seaside news

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seaside news | 23

ARTS PORTHCAWL MALE CHOIR

Holiday Park, Porthcawl. The headline acts for each night are Massive Wagons, Stone Broken and the brilliant Those Damn Crows, so get your tickets early. And one for your notebook: Matt Swift’s new band, Liam Gallagher’d, and The Greedy Souls are performing in The Seagull, Rest Bay, Porthcawl on Saturday 27th January 2024 at 9pm.

Stag Marks 07549 728356 Photo: Liam Gallagher’d

PYLE & PORTHCAWL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

This year has been a memorable one for the choir. There were so many highlights. We were part of the Jamie Adams film ‘It’s Christmas’ which is premiering at the Tribeca film festival next year and starred Simon Callow and Brittany Snow. Simon is now one of our patrons. We sang outside the house of Mrs Machin, one of our long serving supporters who celebrated her 95th Birthday. This was broadcast live on the ITV news. We also sang live on the Owen Money show at this year’s Elvis festival and had a record attendance at our concert at the Pavilion. In addition, we sang at weddings, schools, town events, and joint charity concerts with other choirs. We even opened the new Aldi! We thank all our sponsors, supporters, the ladies section, and our dedicated musical team for helping make this year a special one.

To top off the year, someone bet us we wouldn’t do a Calendar Girls style calendar. We took up the challenge and the boys, some too keenly, bared all. Frankly not a pretty site but great fun and a unique gift at only £8.00.

If you’d like a copy, please contact Marilyn Hill on 07789 037458. Email: contact@pothcawlmalechoir.co.uk or Ian Williams 07927 219544.

STAG’S WORLD OF ROCK I hope you all had a great Xmas. As the magazine’s print deadline date was earlier last month, I wasn’t able to receive new releases in time. However, next month I will review the new C.D. by local band Interstella Boy called ‘Terminal Earth’.

If it’s anything like their singles, it’s going to be good! I’ll also check out the new album by Gene Loves Jezebel called ‘Love, Death, Sorrow’, which features my mate Jay Aston who hails from Cornelly, and no doubt we’ll have a meet-up soon and there will be some information on a possible tour.

This time of year, things get quiet on the music front but don’t miss Planet Rock’s Winter’s End Festival. It’s held over three nights from Friday 2nd February to the Sunday at Trecco Bay 24 | seaside news

We recently held our annual Club Competition 1, expertly judged by Rob Mitchell. Richard Craze was the winner of the Print section and Howard Evans won the Digital section Congratulations both.

We’re a friendly camera club with a mix of male and female members and welcome new members of all ages and skill levels. It’s all very informal so if you have an interest in photography why not come along and join us.

We meet at St Clare’s School, Newton, CF36 5NR on Thursday evenings at 7pm. www.pyle-and-porthcawl-photographic-society.co.uk Geoff Baker Internal Competition Secretary

Email your article info@seasidenews.co.uk

A FILM MAKER’S POINT OF VIEW Although I have my own taste in film, I’m never really very sure how everyone else reacts to the content of television and cinema in the present day, and I try to avoid being too critical about the state of it out of a sense of politeness and decorum.

In my spare time, I chose to watch old films, which generally means films from the 1930s to 1950s. Why? Simply because the best of them are better made, have interesting stories to tell and the dialogue is not filled with bad language. Also, I happen to prefer black and white, which is a rarity nowadays.

Recently, I watched Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger’s ‘49th Parallel’ which, taken at first glance, was a wartime propaganda film. It is one of their more obscure productions, set in Canada, and compares the difference between the German Nazi mentality and that of the free world as a group of U-boat sailors, their submarine sunk in Hudson Bay, try to make their way to the United States, which was then still neutral, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. If you want to spend two hours watching something worthwhile, look out for it.

Anthony Hontoir, Downwood Films 07510 934299 Photo: Anthony Hontoir

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TEL: 07790 015716

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LALESTON MOT CENTRE

Repairs and servicing to all makes of vehicles: Servicing, Welding, Diagnostics and Electrical Repairs We also suppliers of: Tyres, Exhausts, Brakes & Batteries.

WE ACCEPT CARD FREE PAYMENTS: WINTER TEL: 01656 661118 CHECK Email: lalestoncarsales@gmail.com Address: Rear of Texaco Garage, Laleston North Service Station, Leleston, Bridgend CF32 0LY

PORTHCAWL ART SOCIETY NEWS

Moss Technical Services Ltd provide electrical services to the domestic and commercial sector. From changing a light switch, to doing a full re-wire, we do it all.

We had a very successful and enjoyable 2023 with a lot of beautiful arts and crafts produced. The spring exhibition winners show the range of subject matter our members produce - figures, portrait, animals, landscapes and much more.

We were honoured to have Jannet Poultney Maddy to judge in spring and welcomed the Mayor, Jonathan Pratt, and Brian Jones to judge in the summer and autumn. We love to chat to the public in our gallery and visitors have enjoyed voting for their favourites in our competitions and recently in our Christmas card competition. We also open our demonstrations and workshops to the public and have enjoyed learning more about pastels and watercolour as well as having a go at still life studies.

We are a bit quieter in the colder months in the New Year. From 1st March we aim to be open 11-3pm Wed, Thurs, Frid, Sat and other days when volunteers are available, so come along to enjoy our art (entry is free). If you are interested in joining us, visit us in a member workshop, every Wednesday 1-3pm and 7-9pm. We start meeting weekly on 6th March. Visitors are welcome to these sessions for a small charge. We are upstairs in the Old Police Station, above the museum in John Street.

Tricia Simon (Secretary) www.porthcawlart.co.uk Facebook/PorthcawlArt

Here in a nutshell is what we offer.

• Electrical installation work • Electrical testing including PAT Testing • Emergency call out and fault diagnosis • CCTV installation • Access Control / Door entry installation • Data Cabling • Wireless Access Points • Networking • EV Charging • Solar & battery, design & Email for a free design quote installation • Home Automation Supply and installation

It’s time for progress...

Call: 01656 746766 info@mosstech.co.uk seaside news | 25

POEMS

Email us your poem info@seasidenews.co.uk

MOTZI THE ONE-EYED CAT (Inspired by a prompt set for Bridgend u3a writers group) Motzi the one-eyed cat, who lived in days o’yore, Had fought many a battle, with scars to prove it galore.

And tho’ humans tried to tame him, he viewed them with disdain, To him they them merely slaves or surfs, over whom he did reign.

Motzi the one-eyed cat, was the envy of other mogs, With claws as sharp as razors, he was the scourge of local dogs.

For if he should catch sight of one, then fur would surely fly, Should any cat dared to challenge Motzi or laugh at his blind eye.

and watched the bouncing bomb.

OH HOW TIME FLIES

Motzi the one-eyed cat, told how he’d walked upon the moon, Trailed the backwoods of Kentucky with frontiersman, Daniel Boone.

When with Christopher Columbus he sailed all of the seven seas, And at the Court of Queen Victoria, chief mouse catcher by royal decree.

It’s now the time to say our goodbyes, To another year oh how time flies.

Motzi the one-eyed cat, now revered as a mystique, And cats would gather in a clowder just to listen to him speak.

For when the one-eyed demon meowed with such wisdom and such style, There was not one feline in the universe, with his wit he couldn’t beguile.

Claudette Evans, Kenfig Hill

Trust 2024 will be better than last, Look forward with hope say farewell to the past.

Stay positive, stay safe and wish for the best, Let the power of the Universe take care of the rest. e-Kisses, e-Hugs to family & friends, Good Health and Happiness that will never end.

A year full of promise of love & laughter, And smiles that will last forever after.

Marilyn Cook, Bridgend

EMAIL US YOUR POEM info@seaside news.co.uk

Motzi the one-eyed cat, was famed as a teller of tales, How he’d sailed on the Endeavour through wind and rain and gales.

He claimed he’d been at Agincourt and at the battle of the Somme, He’d seen the arrowAd that hit Harold’s 071223.qxp_Advert eye NSBS SN Rates 154x113mm from SiGGA Design Ltd. 07/12/2023

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INTEREST RATES are variable and may vary but are correct at the time of going to print (December 2023)

* The minimum account opening balance is the minimum amount that must be deposited at the time of the account opening. ** The minimum account operating balance is the minimum balance that must be maintained in the account for it to remain open. ☨ GROSS The Gross rate is the contractual rate of interest before the deduction of income tax. ☨ AER Stands for Annual Equivalent Rate and illustrates what the interest rate would be if interest was paid and added each year.

COWBRIDGE BRANCH | 01446 506000 75 High Street Cowbridge CF71 7AF | www.swansea-bs.co.uk Swansea Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Financial Services Register Number: 206066

26 | seaside news

Supporting people with life limiting and life changing conditions The Sandville Self Help Foundation is a charity overlooking the Porthcawl coastline. You can meet people from across Wales who are going through similar experiences. It is a safe place where you can make positive changes to your physical, psychological and emotional well-being.

We offer set days for specific conditions and would like to offer a warm welcome to those individuals who have been diagnosed with life limiting and life changing conditions including but NOT limited to:

Parkinson’s

Tuesdays 9am - 4pm

Cancers

Wednesdays 10am - 4pm

The trained and experienced team at the Sandville Self Help Foundation aim to: • Provide individuals and family members with an opportunity to meet and give mutual support around a diagnosis and treatment.

• Provide an opportunity for individuals to attend sessions within the Gym & Mobility Suite and Wellbeing Studio including Yoga, Relaxation, Tai Chi, Pilates, Chair Exercises, Circuits and Sandville’s Parkinson’s Warrior Classes.

• Provide individuals with an opportunity to use the Hydrotherapy Pool to assist in rehabilitation, improving mobility and maximising independence.

• Provide individuals with an opportunity to access Complementary Therapies including Reflexology, Reiki, Acupuncture and Hypnotherapy used in the management of pain, anxiety, difficulty in sleeping and more.

• Provide hairdressing and beauty advice pre and post chemotherapy and other treatments.

• Provide safe access to our Sensory Garden and gardening opportunities.

• Share practical information and signpost to other support services.

Multiple Sclerosis, Motor Neurone Disease, Muscular Dystrophy, Stroke, Brain Injuries, Complex Pain, Respiratory Conditions & more

Thursdays 10am - 4pm

Dementia & Frail Older Person’s Cafe

Fridays 11am - 2pm

Please contact the Sandville Self Help Foundation for more information on any of our services.

You don’t need an appointment or a referral, we will assess your needs and offer services to those who meet the charity’s criteria.

We do not receive any government funding and rely on your generous donations.

Follow us on our socials!

www.sandville.org.uk info@sandville.org.uk

01656 743344

Sandville Court, Kenfig, Bridgend CF33 4PU

@SandvilleSelfHelpFoundation

Registered charity no: 517899

seaside news | 27

POEMS LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT The first time that I noticed him, was in the corridor at school.

Travelling between his classes and acting kinda cool One glance of his was all it took to instantly feel connected.

Our eyes locked in the crowded hall; my reaction unexpected.

First a soaring temperature, then gasping for fresh air My heart was all a flutter, it gave me quite a scare.

I couldn’t concentrate on lessons; my legs had turned to jelly.

A perfect storm erupted as butterflies took over in my belly.

With an overwhelming urge to see him, a desire to meet and speak.

I couldn’t get him out of mind, discovered he was Greek.

Each time we passed he’d smile at me, the world ceasing to exist.

Nervous energy taking over, and we hadn’t even kissed.

I dreamt up ways to speak to him, to stem this chemical reaction.

Having only eyes for him, had caused a physical attraction.

When I saw him, I fell in love, and he smiled because he knew.

I found my chance to make a move and pounced as he came into view.

Now being a head prefect with school protocols to uphold, I stopped him in the corridor feeling pretty bold.

I reminded him of the directive that he must wear a tie And warned him there’d be consequences if he continued to noncomply.

Three warnings later, I issued, a detention for end of day.

And to be fair he did the time without causing an affray.

He asked what I was doing later, would I watch his football match?

I wouldn’t have turned him down for anything, he really was a catch.

We ended up at the Maindy, a pub opposite the school.

Ordered lagers and pork scratchings, breaking every rule.

You see he was only fifteen so underaged to drink And I was almost eighteen, cradle snatching don’t you think?

He walked me home that evening and Dad opened the front door.

Asked him who he supported, as Dad was QPR to the very core.

I held my breath, I prayed to God, please let it not be Chelsea.

28 | seaside news

And sighed with relief when he said Spurs, it couldn’t have been better for me.

And so, forty-seven years later with five grandchildren huddled round He pauses to take a photograph and doesn’t make a sound.

Just glances over in my direction and once again smiles at me And whispers very gently, ‘Happy Anniversary!’

Verne Farrugia, Porthcawl

OPEN MIC AT THE ROCK It’s an island of mine, and I like it just fine, In a world of chaos and grief.

It’s an isle that i visit, where they cannot inhibit, My words, my thoughts, my beliefs.

But its not what you think, take a while, let it sink.

No beach on a far distant shore.

No sun, golden sand, where Crusoe did land, It’s a pub, and its through the front door.

If its not what it seems, then what can it mean.

An Island? You say all befuddled.

Well I’m glad that you came, pray let me explain, the answer is coded, but subtle.

It’s an island so special, where poets can settle, and ply to the crowd all their wares.

In the week Thursday night, at the rock open mic, where your heart and your soul can be bared.

It’ not even a stage, it’s a space that’s so made, where wannabees do entertain.

But its slight elevation, gives sole occupation, like an island that’s so self-contained.

And I’m armed with a mic, on a cold rainy night, and the crowds expectant, they’re waiting.

They’ve allowed me the space, so my island’s in place, and they all want to hear what I’m stating.

I go there to spar, with my tiny guitar, on my island I lovingly crave.

It’s just a small space, that I love to embrace, where I’m cheeky, and can misbehave.

So I strum out a chord, and orders

restored, and I sing out my opening line.

And the crowd how they roar, cos they’ve heard it before, and they loved it that very first time.

And their singing along, it’s becoming a throng, at my island they stand and surround.

And I look through the crowd, which is further endowed, cos they’re coming right in from the lounge.

Cos they’ve heard if this bloke, whose songs make a joke, of life, and sometimes he’s blue.

But they’ll never condemn, cos it happens to them, but they won’t ever say, cos its true.

And I’ll tell you what’s nice, cos I’ve felt once or twice, my performance when down with a bang.

Cos my words had held sway, as they so filed away, still singing the songs that I sung.

I’ve a useful pub voice, its not a Rolls Royce, and I’ll never win ‘Britain’s got talent’.

But I’m willing and able, and I bring to the table, alternative views by the gallon.

But back to my isle, as I broaden a smile, I’m escaping from life and its troubles.

Where just for one night, I can sing what I write, on my island, I’m safe in my bubble.

Chris Worth, Porthcawl

PERFECT CHRISTMAS I am ready now for Christmas, I’ve shopped until I dropped.

My purse is all but empty, Supermarket tills have stopped.

I quarrelled with the Sellotape, It kept the end from me But at last I’ve packed the presents And they’re all under the tree.

Carol singers braved the cold They sang in tune this year, Singing carols, new and old, Which always brings a tear.

Turkey’s stuffed and roasting slow, The smell is just divine.

The pigs are in their blankets, So it’s time to drink some wine.

Bells of Saint Mary’s are ringing, Midnight Mass has just begun So, Merry Christmas everyone, Enjoy the festive fun.

Catherine Millard Payne, Bridgend

Email us your poem info@seasidenews.co.uk

EMPTY HOUSE?

ANOTHER NEW YEAR?

A PLACE TO SLEEP

“It’s cold outside,” mused the candy floss coloured marshmallows, sitting in the drink, “So it is!” replied the armchair, dressed in pink.

“Don’t be silly!” stated the window. “It’s not that cold, I’m half outside, I should know!”

“I’m very cold, thank you very much!” said the offended snow.

They all sighed, tired of this petty conversation, They were sure they were boring the house population.

“Where’s Darcy?” The door asked, “I’ve been locked for a while!”

“I’m not sure!” the carpet answered through its faded pile.

“I think she’s gone away!” said the weekly planner, sitting on the refrigerator.

“But it’s Christmas!” cried the fenestrated advent calendar.

“Yeah, she’s gone away with family!”

The telephone explained, “I heard her talking!”

The marshmallows paused, smirking!

“Telephone, were you stalking?”

“Marshmallows, stop teasing!” the mantelpiece ordered, his kindly face like stone, “The reason she’s gone...” the grandfather clock began “is apart from us, she is all alone!”

Seren Cawdery, Porthcawl

Thank God for the landmarks we find along our way.

New Years, yes and birthdays that make each special day.

But thank God for each little gift that fills up in between, Fresh air, and food and friendship – each day his mercy’s seen.

And thanks for those who love and care, when we’re young And when we’re old, And who teach us of the Saviour and of the place there In his fold.

Thank God who gives contentment, as we trust him on the way And thank him for the strength and song he gives us day by day And yes, may it be for each of us a Happy New Year.

Pauline Lewis, Pinehurst

Cold feet, nothing to eat.

Keep moving down the street.

Hands held out to passersby.

Empty palms that face the sky.

Passersby just look away.

Not for them to give today.

Need to find a place to sleep.

Winter came and it remained.

Every day is cold and grey. no longer is there a summer day.

Once I knew the warmth of home.

Friendly faces and a red front door.

A haven of happiness it used to be.

Where did it all go wrong for me.

Need to find a place to sleep.

Shop windows are mirrors to me.

For Reflected in them I see.

That young man I used to be.

Smart blue suit and matching tie.

Crisp white shirt to catch the eye.

Again it fades and I must see.

This man who now I’ve come to be.

Ragged clothes in disrepair.

Unshaven face and unkempt hair.

Need to find a place to sleep.

When will this journey end.

I live my life without a friend.

My life now carried in a bag.

No room for dreams in my barren land.

Every day I feel despair.

Is my life beyond repair.

Need to find a place to sleep.

Holes in shoes let in the rain.

Only adds to my pain.

Now with anger I just can’t see.

Why was this to be my destiny.

Need to find a place to sleep.

Bill Lenihan, Porthcawl

Free eye test voucher Book online at specsavers.co.uk Need a hearing check too?

You can get one free in store.

Porthcawl 59 John Street Tel 01656 782 832 Valid for one test on or before 31 December 2023.

Present voucher at time of test. Cannot be exchanged for cash, or used with any other vouchers. Excludes OCT scan. Excludes customers entitled to a free NHSfunded eye test. One per person, at named Specsavers stores only.

NEW YEAR IS HERE Xmas is gone, The New Year is here.

What will it bring?

We hope lots of cheer.

Caress every bit No matter how small.

Happy New Year To one and to all.

Judy Dee, Porthcawl

seaside news | 29

SCHOOLS ST CLARE’S SCHOOL NEWS

Year 3 and 4 pupils sang at the Rotary Club’s Annual Christmas Tree Concert in Al-Saints Church. They performed a collection of songs from their Christmas Show called ‘Lights, Camel, Action’. Their enthusiastic performance was met with rapturous applause by the audience. It was a truly memorable night.

TEAM NEWTON

NEWYDDION YSGOL Y FERCH O’R SGÊR

From the smallest in our Nursery to the tallest in our Sixth Form, the boys and girls at St Clare’s would like to wish Seaside News readers a very happy and healthy New Year.

The last few weeks of term were hectic (although it seems months ago). There were Christmas concerts galore with pupils from the Nursery upwards providing parents and grandparents with festive entertainment, whilst the wonderful production of ‘Murder at Drizzle Manor’ showcased the tremendous talent we have here. Everyone loved the trips to castles, cinemas, Bath Christmas markets and Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland.

We are now looking forward to the spring term ahead and warmly welcoming all the new pupils joining us across the school.

The January deadline for September admission to Reception, Year 3, Year 7 and Sixth Form is looming but our Open Week (8th – 12th January) is your chance to come and see us ‘in action’ on a normal day. We also welcome mid-year joiners.

If you missed our A-Level Options Evening, discover why we are in the top 5% of top-performing schools for A-Level performance since 2018, boasting 6 lessons per week per subject.

Visit: www.stclares-school.co.uk or call (01656) 789966 to find out more.

Picture caption: Brilliant fundraising at St Clare’s for Macmillan

NEWTON PRIMARY NEWS Over the past few weeks, we have spent a lot of time working with the Porthcawl community.

Years 5 & 6 went on a litter pick to Coney Beach with Encon, who are the company responsible for building the new bus station in Porthcawl. They were pleased to find that there wasn’t as much litter as expected!

Tricia Davies from Porthcawl food bank visited us to present an assembly about the local food bank and how it works. She explained where the food goes, whom it benefits and how many people are accessing the food bank. The children asked some really interesting questions and she was very grateful for the kind donations, which included some Christmas goodies for children.

Judith Shawe from Porthcawl Rotary came in to present Leo from Dosbarth Sger with his prize for coming first place in The Young Artist competition. The competition’s theme this year was ‘rebuilding’ and we had some fabulous, creative entries from the children. Their artwork will be displayed in All Saints Church over the Christmas period.

30 | seaside news

We have just finished our Christmas concerts, with the Foundation Phase performing a Welsh adaptation of Aliens Love Santa Claus and Key Stage 2 taking us on a tour of European Christmas celebrations. We also performed a dress rehearsal for Afon-y-Felin.

Another day of Outdoor Learning has taken place, with the Foundation Phase hunting for bugs and exploring in the woods. Luckily, we times it well and the weather was dry!

The Foundation Phase visited Forage Farm for a Christmas Experience. Much fun was had by all. We were so busy creating Christmas decorations, toasting marshmallows and visiting the Alpacas. We also watched a show where Elf Mable found the lost Christmas Key. After that, every child visited Santa and received a teddy to take home. It was a wonderful day.

Key Stage 2 has visited the Church at Maudlam and has also sung in a care home. They also visited Capel y Tabernacl in Bridgend to watch a panto about the Story of Christmas – Ble mae’r asyn? Where’s the donkey?

We look forward to welcoming our leaners back in January.

If you would like further details on Welsh-medium education, contact 01656 754865 or admin@yfos.pen-y-bont.cymru

Email us your report to: info@seasidenews.co.uk

PORTHCAWL COMPREHENSIVE NEWS

Happy New Year to you all I do hope you had a wonderful Christmas with family and friends. We had a very busy end to the autumn term with lots of events running at PCS. To name a few, the PE department held our annual Winter Games competition, we held trips to Winter Wonderland and we travelled to Lille Christmas Market! Our Year 7 Drama Club produced a take on Bedknobs and Broomsticks and our Wellbeing Ambassadors held a community Christmas event. The standout highlight was being able to host our Carol Service once again at All Saint’s Church at the centre of the community. It was lovely that we were able to welcome parents, carers, and members of the community to celebrate with us. The music once again was outstanding and special thanks to Mrs Giles, Mrs Smith and all the staff involved in contributing to a wonderful evening. To end, our Year 10 pupils are completing their English Literature GCSE examination and I must congratulate them for their hard work and commitment in preparation for this examination – I look forward to hearing about their success soon. Rehearsals at school for Jekyll & Hyde the Musical are in full flow, and performances are 24th-27th January 2024 at The Grand Pavilion – 01656 815995, www.awenboxoffice.com See you there!

Mr Stephens, Head Teacher

CYNFFIG COMPREHENSIVE NEWS This term our Student Chairperson, Kian Hamer Davies and the Student Cabinet have been appointed and one of their duties has been to review our School Development Plan. Together we evaluated our priorities and planned our next steps. The Parliament showed impressive leadership skills as they voiced their ideas on behalf of our pupils.

Our Eco community have been extremely busy in the community taking on ‘The Big Build’. Our creative eco-crew

have been creating clay sculptures which will be included in the Edible Forest Garden at Pyle Pool. We can’t wait to see the finished results.

The end of last term was a time for giving with pupils and families donating to charities to help those most in need in our community. In the weeks leading up to Christmas pupils brought in new and nearly new gifts, packets and tins of food to donate to the Pyle Family Breakfast and the Christmas Sparkle Appeal.

Mrs Battrick visited the school to speak to pupils and the end result was two vehicles full of food, gifts and toiletries. Thank you to all our families who have donated. We have made a big difference and gifted to families close to our hearts.

Hannah Castle, Head Teacher

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Atlantic House, Charnwood Park, Bridgend, CF31 3PL seaside news | 31

VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFE! THE TAP END BATHROOM DESIGN STUDIO IN PONTYCLUN HAVE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE...

AND HERE IS THE PROOF! When considering renovating any room in the home often times peoples first port of call is a quick online search. Gathering inspiration for your project is super important as it allows you to build a picture of what you like and equally what you don’t like. Regardless of whether you want plain and simple, or something much more adventurous The Tap End bathroom design studio in Pontyclun have something for everyone... and here is the proof!

In recent years we are seeing an upturn in requests for something a little different. Clients don’t always know exactly what they want, but they want something that is more exciting than what they previously had. It is the job of our qualified, trained and experienced bathrooms designers to guide clients towards something that fits the brief but that will also stand the test of time. Making cloakrooms, ensuite and bathrooms more exciting is a challenge we love to take on! We have many ways to add interest to even the smallest of spaces. Options for interest can range from ambient lighting, coloured brassware and patterned tiles to boxing out sections for alcoves and building partition walls.

If you plan to move in three to five years then you should definitely consider resale with your choices, don’t go too bold if you fall into this category. If you are staying for up to 10 years then resale still needs to be considered, but you should add in personal touches and elements for you to enjoy for the duration you will be at the house. Touches that you can enjoy but that can be easily changed in time include paint colours, wallpapers, mirrors and accessories.

If you plan to stay in your home for 10 years plus, you need to opt for higher-end products for longevity and add in features that you love - for example did you know we do TVs for bath and shower areas!

Try not to be trend driven; committing fully to a trend in a bathroom can really show its age down the line. Think more about your personal style and go with things that you know you will enjoy even when the trend has passed.

Achieve a more creative scheme by working with a designer to come up with fun and innovative ideas.

Undergoing a bathroom renovation can be messy and involve a lot of dust and disruption, but the design process is the fun part, so make the most of this opportunity to design a room that will make the upheaval worth it. Take your time researching and understanding what the process entails.

Check out our reviews online.

COME IN TO MEET US AND TALK ABOUT YOUR WANTS AND NEEDS. If you are embarking on a bathroom, ensuite or cloakroom project The Tap End can assist you in deciding on the best layout for your brief and how you use the room, help you spread your budget across the products so you have good quality throughout, show you interesting features and technology for the space, and of course create a colour scheme and tile choices that are both timeless and stunning.

CONTACT DETAILS; THE TAP END, 57 LLANTRISANT RD, PONTYCLUN, CF72 9DP TEL; 01443 449056 SOCIAL MEDIA; HOUZZ, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, 32 | seaside news

seaside news | 33

NEWS HAPPY NEW YEAR I hope you and your family had a relaxing Christmas filled with joy.

My family and I often walk the Porthcawl promenade - I find it’s a great way to blow away the cobwebs and get a coffee on the seafront. Just before Christmas, we attended a special event at the Porthcawl Museum for their Victorian Christmas celebrations. Our son had enormous fun, especially in the train room!

We enjoyed enormously being taken back in time to sample what Christmas was like in the Victorian era. It was wonderful to meet so many friendly faces, including Paul and Ceri Joseph, along with all the volunteers who have worked incredibly hard to keep the museum running. It’s a lovely place to visit if you’d like to learn more about Porthcawl’s history. A big thank you to everyone who gives their own time to make the museum such a special place to visit. We felt very Christmassy afterwards, and the vegetable soup and warm Welsh cakes were delicious, too!

If you’ve never been to Porthcawl Museum or maybe haven’t visited for a while, you can find out more about the monthly events they organise and read their regular newsletter online at www.porthcawlmuseum.com I wish you and your family a peaceful and Happy New Year.

CHRIS ELMORE MP FOR OGMORE Welsh Labour Parliamentary Candidate for Bridgend & Porthcawl www.ChrisElmore.wales

NEW REGENERATION WORK FOR 2024 You can expect to see a lot of regeneration activity at both Griffin Park and the Portway in early January.

At Griffin Park, work will resume on the installation of two tennis courts featuring all-new surfacing, nets, fencing, improved gate and access systems and more. Installed in partnership with Porthcawl Town Council and the Lawn Tennis Association, the courts mark the final phase of a project to encourage more people to take up the sport and improve their health and wellbeing.

At the Portway, a new signal-controlled pedestrian crossing will be installed to ensure that shoppers and visitors can move freely and enjoy quick, convenient access between Salt Lake, the Eastern Promenade and the town centre.

The crossing work is being undertaken by Aldi as part of a package of highway, pedestrian and cycleway improvements that Bridgend County Borough Council negotiated while granting permission for the development of the new food store at Salt Lake.

Along with another crossing which will be installed as part of a planned extension of Dock Street, it will also provide convenient access to the new Metrolink transport interchange.

The work will require a temporary road closure, but every effort will be made to minimise inconvenience – visit www.bridgend.gov.uk for more details.

COUNCILLOR NEELO FARR Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Wellbeing Tel: 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk

34 | seaside news

POOR EDUCATION STANDARDS IN WALES BLIGHT YOUNG LIVES It was a Labour Prime Minister who said that his main priorities in government were education, education, education.

It’s a shame that the Welsh Labour Government has not taken that mantra to heart as Wales plunges further down both the international and UK tables with the worst results ever for reading, science and maths.

Education in Wales, after 25 years of Labour in charge, is in a dire state. Education spending has consistently lagged behind that in the three other UK nations. Labour stopped publishing how much it was spending per child each year to avoid odious comparisons but the gap then between Wales and England stood at £700. We have no idea what the gap is today after Labour cut education spending once again this year despite receiving an £18.1 billion budget from the UK Government.

Its warped priorities are to blame. Wales needs 5000 more teachers and not another 36 politicians who will cost in excess of £100m over five years.

These results are a disaster for our pupils whose prospects are being blighted. They will be competing for jobs in an ever-more globalised world. That task is now much harder.

JAMIE WALLIS MP for Bridgend

Deadline date for the February issue is: MONDAY 15TH JANUARY

JOHN STREET PORTHCAWL Porthcawl Neighbourhood Policing Team wish to remind visitors to the town centre that the retail area of John Street is a pedestrianised zone subject to a local traffic order. Between 11am – 5pm the street is completely pedestrianised, and no motor vehicles are permitted on the street. Outside of these hours, only vehicles displaying a valid blue disability badge and vehicles loading or unloading for business purposes are permitted entry.

Officers have been attending the street to monitor compliance with the traffic order and have taken enforcement action where necessary and will continue to do so. Please respect the traffic order and consider alternative parking if you’re looking to visit the town centre.

Please contact your local Neighbourhood police officer, PC 6170 Adam Roberts for further information if required.

Email: adam.roberts2@south-wales.police.uk Mobile - 07870 909103

Email us your views info@seasidenews.co.uk

FRESH INVESTMENT INTO THE COMMUNITY

DID BCBC ABIDE BY HIGH COURT JUDGEMENT ON PORTHCAWL PLANS?

I was really pleased to see how two recent developments are benefitting the local community.

Firstly, the launch of a new mobile youth centre in areas such as Pyle is enabling our Youth Support and Community Safety Partnership teams to deliver services directly into local communities. Funded by Safer Streets, this is offering young people a safe, secure environment where they can receive expert help, advice and guidance.

Secondly, it’s great to see that Kenfig Hill RFC has become the latest local sports club to take advantage of the Community Asset Transfer (CAT) programme, and now have a 10-year lease on the Croft Goch playing fields.

The club took on responsibility for the day-to-day maintenance of the pitch last year after the council provided £25,000 for pitch improvements. A further £10,000 of CAT funding has since been invested into new pitch maintenance equipment, and the car park has been improved using £3,256 from the council’s Sports Support Fund.

Thanks to additional funding from the council, the club, WRU and Sport Wales, a £68,000 improvement project has also provided a new drainage system, and has reseeded the pitch.

Both of these are excellent examples of what can be achieved by working in partnership.

A well-attended public meeting to discuss development plans for Porthcawl was organised by my office at Trinity church.

Sadly, I was unable to attend myself as I was struck down by Covid, but I have had a full report on the meeting from my staff and we are putting together a summary of the views expressed to us, which will be passed on to BCBC. They keep saying that they have conducted extensive consultations on the revised LDP, the Placemaking Plan and various elements of the Regeneration Strategy so I assume that they will welcome this extra feedback.

The main point to emerge was made by Porthcawl Civic Society chairman Don Tickner who said that in their view the council has contravened the Gunning principles set up following a High Court ruling which said that a consultation is not genuine if the council has pre-determined its decisions.

The Civic Trust believes that BCBC has pre-determined everything that has happened and will happen in Porthcawl including building 1100 new houses, in the way that Aldi was chosen to build a new supermarket and in spending £4m on a bus station that apparently nobody wants and is in the wrong place.

COUNCILLOR HUW DAVID Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council Tel: 01656 643643

DR ALTAF HUSSAIN Regional Senedd Member

LOOKING FOR A NEW CAREER IN 2024?

If you are looking to find work or change your job in 2024, why not consider joining the social care teams of Bridgend County Borough Council?

With vacancies available for care home staff, reablement workers who go out to care for people in their own homes, advanced mental health practitioners, social workers, occupational therapists and more, social care offers a wide range of fantastic career opportunities.

It doesn’t matter if you haven’t done it before or have specific qualifications – your experience could come from similar roles, volunteer positions, work placements, part of a training programme or even your personal life.

Having the right values and being positive, caring and motivated are the most important qualities that we look for.

Full training and support is provided, and social care can offer you a job for life as well as the satisfaction of making a positive difference to someone else’s life, too.

We also offer a social work apprentice scheme and opportunities for gaining new skills, including a funded degree course. If you would like to find out more, our social care vacancy pages at www.bridgend.gov.uk feature a wealth of information, including answers to frequently asked questions, testimonials from existing staff and more.

HAVE YOUR SAY Email: info@seasidenews.co.uk

COUNCILLOR JANE GEBBIE Deputy Leader Bridgend County Borough Council 01656 643643

seaside news | 35

FEATURES KENFIG NATURE RESERVE GRAZING AT KENFIG

Kenfig dunes are Common Land, and in the past would have been regularly grazed by sheep and cattle. But after WW2, grazing largely ceased, and as a result the character of the dunes has changed considerably. Old photographs show a lot of bare sand, with virtually no trees or shrubs. Now the dunes are becoming increasingly overgrown, with bracken, scrub and woodland covering much of the area, and grassy areas being dominated by coarse grasses. This has led to a loss of diversity of plants and animals, and now threatens the survival of some of the rare flowering plants, fungi and invertebrates which the Reserve is famous for. Public paths are also in danger of being lost as the scrub advances. If allowed to continue unchecked, almost all of the Reserve would eventually become dense scrub and woodland.

In an attempt to reverse this process, controlled grazing was introduced to the northern part of the Reserve about 20 years ago. A fence was created across the dunes, and sheep and cattle were introduced by a local farmer. The results can be seen in the photo showing the difference between the grazed and ungrazed sides of the fence, with short grass and minimal scrub on the grazed side, and dense tussocky grass and scrub on the ungrazed side.

Natural Resources Wales, who manage the Reserve on behalf of Kenfig Corporation, now wish to extend the grazing to the larger, southern part of the Reserve, and have constructed a new fence to contain the livestock within the larger area.

36 | seaside news

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REMEMBRANCE DISPLAY AT ST TEILO’S

The photos show our Remembrance display at St Teilo’s Church, Merthyr Mawr. The poppies were generated by a wide group of people, crafting since last January. Following Covid and the complete renovation of our lovely church our challenge was to create enough poppies for a cascade as well as welcoming more people into the church. This we achieved as 5000 poppies were created and many people visited the church. We were also supported by the donation of an additional 4000 poppies from the Wonderwool curtain of poppies that many contributed to in 2018.

In addition, there was a display of information about people connected to the church and village. The intention was to remember those who have contributed, and possibly still do, to the peace and security of the world in which we live.

It also included any information relating to any war and the immediate area of Merthyr Mawr.

We had a wonderful two weeks with many visitors to the church and a lovely Remembrance Service on 12th November.

We are very pleased to have raised £350 for the Royal British Legion.

This will become an annual event. Please see our FB page: Merthyr Mawr, St Teilo’s.

Mandy Buckley Verger St Teilo’s, Merthyr Mawr

THROUGH CHRISTIAN EYES Hi folks, Happy New Year to you, one and all!

Happiness, now there’s a big word and something everyone desires. Some people pay a lot of money to get it. The bible tells us that happiness comes to us in ways we would never have thought. In The Beatitudes (Matthew 5 v 3 - 11), Jesus says that it is the poor in spirit who are blessed, or the peacemakers, or the meek, or those who mourn. The word blessed here means to be happy or fortunate. How can the poor in spirit or those who mourn be happy? It sounds so strange. Well, to be poor in spirit or to mourn refers to those who acknowledge their need for Jesus. Those who realise their weaknesses and therefore their need for God’s help. Those who ask for Jesus’ strength and companionship. Those who surrender their lives to Jesus and follow him into a greater life. A good quote goes, “When we come to the end of ourselves, we find the beginning of God”. In other words, when we begin to trust in God to be the source of our existence, then God steps in in truly amazing ways.

I sincerely wish you a super blessed 2024 but more than anything, I pray you will trust in God in a new way in your life and invite him into your life and lead you in the way everlasting!

Love and blessings Neil Harvey

Cyrsiau achrededig am ddim neu â chymhorthdal mewn lleoliadau cymunedol.

Free or subsidised accredited courses in community venues.

Celf a Chrefft Ieithoedd Sgiliau Gwaith a Bywyd

Arts & Crafts Languages Work & Life Skills Personal Development

Digital, IT & Technology Communication, Reading, Literacy , Numeracy

Datblygiad Personol Cysylltwch â ni Digidol, TG a Contact us Thechnoleg adultlearning@bridgend.gov.uk Cyfathrebu, Darllen, 01656 642746 Llythrennedd , Rhifedd seaside news | 37

FEATURES PORTHCAWL U3A CHEQUE PRESENTATION

Please find photo of members of Porthcawl u3a presenting Awen Trust with a cheque for £450 raised from donations from a book ‘Pen to Paper’ funded by the trust as part of their voices from the underground project in partnership with BCBC. The book is an anthology of 109 short stories, poems and ballads, compiled by Claudette Evans, from 8 writers who are members of local writing groups - Porthcawl u3a, Bridgend U3A and Bridgend Writers’ Circle.

Photo left to right: Malcolm Cowper, Ceri Evans (Awen Trust), Claudette Evans and Bill Lenihan.

Pen to Paper is available on kindle: Pen to Paper: An anthology of short stories and poems https://amzn.eu/d/eCunOLr priced £4.85.

Claudette Evans

MYNYDD CYNFFIG WI When your reading this Christmas and New Year will be over, we at Mynydd Cynffig WI hope it went well with you and Father Christmas called with lots of things for you and your nearest and dearest. We are all looking forward to the new year, new things from federation house that will keep us enjoying our WI. And new speakers to entertain and enlighten us, our clubs are going from strength to strength and we are always hoping you’ll call in and join us. We meet on the second Tuesday of the month 2pm to 4pm at the Talbot Centre Kenfig Hill tea or coffee always ready and with biscuits.

Christine Callaghan

1ST NOTTAGE SCOUTS Do you know anyone between 10½ and 14 years who might enjoy being a Scout? We are in an unusual position where our members have all moved on to other things, meaning we don’t have a Troop to restart with in January. Scouts now is open to all young people (not just boys) but still offers an amazing opportunity to develop useful skills and have a great time while doing so. The Troop meets at 7.30 – 9.30pm on a Friday during term time. Fees are £50 per school term. No need to buy uniform for the first month (and second-hand uniform is readily available on line). If you do know someone who would enjoy being part of 1st Nottage Scouts, drop us a line to steve.sloan@ midglamscouts.org.uk and help your young person develop skills for life.

Janet Batters On behalf of 1st Nottage Scout Group 38 | seaside news

ARE WE SLEEPWALKING INTO CLIMATE CHANGE? Largely filmed in Porthcawl (Bridgend Borough), ‘Sleepwalking into Climate Change?’ https://youtu.be/NlLO8NaOsvE is a compilation, from a series of three 12minute films. Their aim, to locate climate change in the place where we live and intend to stimulate debate and action locally. Check our website for event details. www.sustainablewales.org.uk We engage the public; NRW scientist; Bangor academic; NGO’s (WWF Cymru, Community Energy Wales); Bro Ffestiniog Citizen’s Assembly; Cenin Renewables and the ‘Hi Tide’ business and local politicians (Sarah Murphy MS, Cllr Huw David Borough leader, Town Cllr Jonathon Pratt).

When leading scientists issue their ‘final warning’ is anyone listening?” asks young climate and policy graduate, from Porthcawl, Ella Williamson, Sustainable Wales’s Local Development and Climate Change officer.

“The lack of political leadership nationally and public response locally to this major issue is depressing.” said Sustainable Wales Director, Margaret Minhinnick. “Hence we would like to form a group.”

The films are produced by charity Sustainable Wales and film company Mud and Thunder and financed by Warm This Winter UK, the Postcode Lottery and Sustainable Wales. We are also grateful to Climate Cymru for their support.

Margaret Minhinnick mm@sustainablewales.org.uk Tel: 01656 783962

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SAVOYARDS SAIL TO SUCCESS What a salty performance of ‘HMS PINAFORE’ at the Pavilion on Nov.18th. Once again the Savoyards delighted us with their 29th charity event. Orchestra, chorus and soloists performed together harmoniously, soloists commanding the stage with their impressive singing.

Not to be outdone, the men’s chorus sang heartily while the ladies sang sweetly. The actors slipped into their roles perfectly and made the most of their many memorable satirical lines.

Over £2,000 has been raised so far for the Sandville Self Help Foundation and Ty Hafan Children’s Hospice. What makes these annual events such a success? Many members have been together for a long time, becoming, quoting a member, ‘a very nice, happy family’. Now it’s a smooth running machine, everyone giving time and skills voluntarily.

At the end, Captain Corcoran (aka John Sadler) asked three people to the stage. Rob Reynolds, a member from the beginning, was thanked for his work as stage director for 5 years. Yvonne Hudd was presented with a bouquet for her role in wardrobe, choreography and ‘general support’ (her words!).

Finally a tribute to Roger Hudd BEM, the Savoyards founder, who has held it all together and conducted every performance.

Dominique Spearey

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TOOLS FOR SELF RELIANCE

You may remember I talked about the tool kits we were making for Malawi. The photo shows Ben from head office collecting the kits. Can you imagine people in African with no means to earn a living receiving their super tool kits for Christmas?

We are also sending sewing machines and bags of haberdashery, these items will enable the people being trained to use the machines to make items of clothing that they can sell to buy more materials and maybe start a business. Do you have any, unwanted cloth, buttons, zips, cotton etc.

We support TFSR Cymru and TFSR Llanelly. Llanelly supply us with refurbished tools that we swap for tools in need of refurbishment and Cymru collect any tools that do not form part of our kits or are surplus to requirements.

Did you visit All Saints church to looks at the Christmas tree display, I hope you did not miss our tree, it was the one festooned with spanners, sockets and other tools, a bit different to the usual decorations.

We hope all our readers had a very Happy Christmas and we wish you all the best for 2024.

Contact, John on 01656 786367 for tool donations.

David Cook, Workshop Manager

NEWTON WI NEWS The December meeting this year included the Christmas Party, and what a wonderful evening it was.

Starting with a most delicious turkey dinner with all the trimmings, cooked by our President Jennifer. Once again an outstanding meal. This was followed by carol singing by candlelight. Thanks to Jennifer and all who helped make the evening such a success.

Our thanks also go to the talented ‘craft class ladies’ who again did us proud with the decorating of the Christmas Tree, at the ‘Tree Festival’ at All Saints Church.

Last but not leased thanks go to our amazing Newton W.I. ‘Golden Girls’ for putting on such an entertaining programme at the Christmas miscellany, held at the Hi Tide in November, well done girls.

We take this opportunity to wish all our members a very merry Christmas and a happy new year.

M Freeman

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN PORTHCAWL ‘Go and do likewise’ The parable of the Good Samaritan provides the theme for this year’s Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (18-25 January). We’ll be holding a week of activities across our different churches to consider how we respond to the needs of communities both locally and internationally. We’d love you to join us – keep an eye on our Facebook page for further details (facebook.com/ eglwysi). There’ll be a special Unity Service at Our Lady Star of the Sea (New Road) on Sunday 21st January at 6.30pm, to include a short reflection from Rev Andrew Sully about the work of Christian Aid across the world. Refreshments will be served in the hall afterwards; all are welcome.

AGM/Talk from Welsh Water Caring for God’s creation is a key part of our faith. So, the release of sewage into the sea off Coney Beach and Rest Bay is of great concern to us all. A recent conversation with a manager from Welsh Water gave us a real insight into the challenges of managing our local infrastructure – so we’ve invited him to speak at our AGM this year. The meeting will be at the YMCA (John Street) on Thursday 22nd February at 7pm. Do join us, learn about the current situation and engage with the debate about how we improve things for the future. All are welcome.

Gyda phob bendith / every blessing for 2024.

Mark Worrall

Deadline date for the February issue is: MONDAY 15TH JANUARY

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FEATURES ROTARY ROUNDUP

SKER WI

Porthcawl Rotary was pleased to continue with fund-raising activities leading up to Christmas.

The Rotary Postal Service once again proved extremely popular with many cards being delivered to Porthcawl addresses by Rotarian posties.

The Christmas Tree Festival was held in All Saints Church and was well attended. The marvellous display of decorated Christmas trees by schools and organisations in Porthcawl was a sight to see.

Lara with Rotary President Robert Lee and Rtn Judith Shaw.

The Young musician competition was held on the 6th of December in the All-Saints Church, which proved to be very entertaining with 11 talented young contestants taking part. The worthy winner was Lara Omidvar.

The Christmas Tree Festival Concert was also held in the AllSaints Church and was very enjoyable with the various Schools putting on an excellent musical evening.

The Carolcade went ahead as usual, much to the excitement of local children who saw the decorated sleigh pass along their streets with Christmas music playing and Santa and Mrs. Christmas checking up on their gift requests.

Rotary would like to thank everyone who attended and supported our activities during the festive season and wish everybody a Happy New Year.

Rtn Robert Lee

On 8th December 15 members visited Llancaiach Fawr Manor where they enjoyed a tour of the Manor House set in the time of the British Civil War with guides dressed as servants and speaking in English of the time.

The tour included the Servants Kitchen where the servants ate their meals, the Small Kitchen where the Master’s meals were prepared, the Great Hall that was used for a variety of functions from banquets to Court Sessions, the oak panelled Parlour where the family would eat and two bedchambers ( one for guests and the second for the master and mistress). Finally we were shown a room containing military artifacts - a musket, a pike and armour of the time. Throughout the tour all the guides were extremely informative and entertaining, staying in character throughout. Following the tour the members enjoyed lunch before returning to Porthcawl.

Sker WI have again entered a tree in the Christmas Tree Festival at All Saints Church with this year’s theme being ‘Snowmen’ some made by the members.

This months meeting will be held on 14th December and the members will be enjoying the traditional Fish and Chip Supper.

New members are always welcome.

Pam Powell

INNER WHEEL CLUB OF PORTHCAWL All the members of the club wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. It’s hard to believe that (as I write this) 2023 is nearly over and that it will soon be 2024. However, we still have lots of things to look forward to before we ring in the New Year. We have already had our club Christmas Dinner and are still busy with the lavender bags. We will let you know about our other Christmas events and how they went in the new year.

Best wishes to you all.

Liz Jones

40 | seaside news

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GOFALAETH GLANNAU OGWR: WELSH CHAPELS IN PORTHCAWL AND BRIDGEND Blwyddyn Newydd Dda i chi gyd / Blessings to you all for this New Year.

Gwasanaethau - Sunday services in Welsh Our Sunday services are 11.15am in the chapel at Fenton Place. Everyone is welcome to join us, whatever your level of Welsh. For services, our Minister Dylan prepares a summary of his sermon in English and there are lots of learners in our congregation.

Bore coffi i dysgwyr Our ever-popular coffee morning for Welsh learners will be held on Saturday 6th January, 10am-12pm in the hall behind the chapel on Fenton Place. Join in the fun playing board games, tasting some of the best welsh cakes in town and make some new friends. Edrychwn ymlaen at eich croesawu!

Podlediadau - Podcasts from Stiwdio Ogwr We now have a new recording studio at our sister chapel in Bridgend. During Advent 2023, we began recording a variety of prayers, poems and reflections on our faith and topical issues – with contributions from Porthcawl and surrounding areas.

We’ll be developing new podcasts over the coming months and look forward to working with many of you from across the local community.

To keep updated on all activities, please see our website: www.GlannauOgwr.cymru Pob bendith, David Robinson

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PORTHCAWL TOWNSWOMAN’S GUILD

PORTHCAWL LIONS

Happy New Year! December just flew bye. The carol service held in All Saint’s Church was uplifting and well supported by other guilds. Porthcawl guild ‘hostesses’ ensured all visitors enjoyed camaraderie coffee and cake. Days later the committee decorated our festival tree and their efforts were well received by the members.

The Christmas lunch invitation to members to don BLING saw them rising to the challenge and the results exceeded all expectations as dazzle they did.

No coffee get together in December as there was a flurry of activity to get everything organised for Christmas and members would have struggled to fit a coffee morning in to their busy schedules.

January 10th The speaker will be our friend Ceri Joseph. Ceri’s lectures are always welcome and guaranteed to cheer and brighten a wintery afternoon.

January 24th We meet for a coffee and natter session, which sadly will be our last in the Pavilion venue for the foreseeable future, as it will be undergoing extensive refurbishment.

Plans are underway for our milestone Platinum birthday celebration in February when we celebrate 70 years of our guild.

Interested. Come visit us on a Wednesday afternoon at a monthly meeting in the Grove Golf Club.

Pat Ladlow

The Christmas season gave Porthcawl Lions the chance to hold one of the most important and enjoyable events of the year when they decorated Santa’s Grotto in John St. and then helped as elves for his Saturday visits. They were very busy with lots of little visitors, all of who were on Santa’s nice list!

Everything is in place for a successful Boxing Day fun run with many runners keen to enter but as this has to be written in advance of the holiday a report on the event will appear next month.

Members also managed to find time in their busy schedules to enjoy a Christmas dinner at The Grove Golf Club where they had a very happy evening.

As 2023 fades into the past Porthcawl Lions look forward to a busy and successful 2024 and the March concert at the Hi-Tide will be the first big event of the year. Of course a busy year needs lots of willing hands to organise and man the events so the club is always looking for new members and is therefore planning an informal information evening early this year. If you have a little time to spare, enjoy meeting people and would like to support needy causes look out for news about this evening or find out more about becoming a Lion by telephoning Pauline on 01656 859505 JMC

seaside news | 41

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Online version also available on our website: www.seasidenews.co.uk 42 | seaside news

HISTORY A HOLLYWOOD MURDER: PART THREE Who murdered movie director William Desmond Taylor on the night of 1 February 1922? Suspect number two, Mabel Normand.

Mabel Normand (pictured) was a silent movie actress, the leading comedienne of Hollywood’s Early Age. She was also a talented screenwriter, director and producer with her own production company, the Mabel Normand Feature Film Company.

Mabel had strong feelings for William Desmond Taylor, possibly romantic feelings, which he did not return. Instead, he was content to act as her mentor within a close friendship.

Poor health blighted Mabel’s career. Some rumours state that she was a drug addict, but hard facts on that matter are difficult to find. She suffered from tuberculous and that terrible disease claimed her life in 1930, at the age of thirty-six.

Mabel visited Taylor on the evening he was murdered, and was one of the last people to see him alive. The police questioned Mabel at length. However, Mabel’s chauffeur offered her a firm alibi – he was driving her home at the time of the murder. So, who murdered William Desmond Taylor? More next time…

Hannah Howe, author of Tula and Sunshine, novels set during the Golden Age of Hollywood. https://hannah-howe.com

WHO WAS THIS JENKIN HENRY?

Gail du Pisanie, a museum member now living in Australia, responded to the quiz in last month’s museum newsletter thus.

The initial questions related to the Jenkin Henry Tea, which is a tea provided annually by the Porthcawl Town Council for the 20 oldest people born in Porthcawl. It is financed from the interest on a bequest of £200 which Jenkin Henry made to the then Porthcawl District Council in his will when he died in Melbourne, Australia in 1919, instructing that the interest be distributed at Christmas.

Jenkin Henry was, born to Thomas and Jennet Henry in the Parish of Newton Nottage, in 1833. His father was a carpenter yet in the 1841 census his father was listed as a publican. In 1861, at the time of his death, Thomas was the publican of the original Victorian Public House (The Rock today). Four years earlier Jenkin had left to seek his fortune in Australia

on ‘The Star of the East.’ He married Ann Edmonds in 1862 in Victoria, yet in 1863 they are listed as living in Melbourne. He and Ann visited Britain, possibly Porthcawl in 1884. Listed as a contractor, Jenkin and Anne then sailed home from Plymouth, arriving in Melbourne on 14th December. Ann sadly died in 1902.

Ceri Joseph

AN EMOTIONAL DISCOVERY AT PORTHCAWL MUSEUM Birmingham based, Polish born Vet Dr. ‘Bart’ Bartosz Nietrzeba has, for several years, visited the grave of his great uncle Sergeant Piotr Olgierd Strycharek, a Polish pilot in the RAF who is buried at Nottage cemetery.

Following a recent internet search, he visited Porthcawl Museum, where he made some emotional discoveries among the RAF exhibits held at the museum.

The museum dedicates a section of its exhibition space to the memory of the allied airmen lost while stationed at RAF Stormy Down during WW2.

Taking centre stage, in this exhibition is one of the propellers from Sergeant Strycharek aircraft, along with his photograph and biography. This was a moving moment of discovery for Bart who had no previous knowledge of the item’s existence.

Sergeant Piotr Olgierd Strycharek was an instructor at 7 Air Gunnery School, at RAF Stormy Down, Porthcawl, South Wales, while serving in the Polish Air Force.

In September 1943 Sgt Strycharek was returning to base after a gunnery exercise over the sea off Porthcawl. The Avro Anson he was piloting collided with a Westland Lysander, which had just taken off from Stormy Down. The aircraft collided at 600ft above Ballas woods.

Besides the two pilots and the Lysander tow operator, four air gunners in the Anson were also killed in the accident, one of whom is also buried in Nottage cemetery.

RAF Stormy Down served a very important role in the training of both air and ground crews during the 1939-45 war. More than 7,000 Air Gunners were trained there.

Research has since shown that 22 aircrew who flew on the Dambusters raid trained at RAF Stormy Down. Of the 19 aircraft that took part in the raid 14 of the aircraft had someone from Stormy Down, 12 of the aircrew were killed on the raid.

Sgt Strycharek was born on the 1st of November 1914 to Franciszek and Katarzyna, both farmers. At around 1931, after finishing secondary school, he enrolled into Polish Air Force Officer School in Dęblin (known as The School of the Eaglets) where he gained his pilots skills. He reached the UK by escaping the Soviet Union with the army of General Wladyslaw Anders to Iran and then to UK. General Anders led the so-called “army of hope,” later the 2nd Polish Corps, who were transferred to Italy and incorporated into the 8th British Army. During the Italian campaign, the 2nd Polish Corps played a lead role in conquering Monte Cassino in May 1944.

Bart commented that’ from a personal perspective, his great uncle is a person of admiration amongst all the family members. She was very proud of his dedication and heroism in WW2. She had always told me that he was buried somewhere in the UK and that she always wished she could come and visit, but due to her poor health she never could. I have been visiting his grave on her behalf since I came to UK in 2008.

All his relatives are very proud and very grateful to the whole team at Porthcawl Museum for commemorating his and other members of Polish Air Forces memory. seaside news | 43

HEALTH PLEASED TO MEET YOU As we approach a new year there is a yearning to start something new. A change to your lifestyle or make new friends, but how do we start? Maybe go out and meet new people.

A recent study of 40,000 Britons concluded that momentary interactions of greeting and thanking could increase wellbeing by creating a sense of belonging. Where to begin? It can seem like a huge step to make, joining a club you are interested in but have not started because you have been too busy, but now you have time but feel a bit anxious. Why not start with a small step? Smile or say hello to someone you pass by who is friendly, go on a regular walk and meet others doing the same. Find a common interest. Be nice and others will return your kindness.

What do you feel is missing in your life and what do you think will fill the gap? Someone or something? Think about it if you dare. Would you like someone to greet you with a smile be kind to you, take you places or meet up for your favourite drink.

Remember all the happiness you desire is inside you. Be gentle on yourself.

Margaret Brown

Deadline date for the February issue is: MONDAY 15TH JANUARY

A TO Z OF VITAMINS Vitamin C is essential for healthy bones, muscles, teeth as well as heart and nerves. A lack of vitamin D can lead to muscle weakness (leading to bone deformities), constipation and irritability. Vitamin D also has benefits for the immune system, and there have been reports suggesting vitamin D is useful in combatting coronavirus, although more research is needed.

Studies have found that people with low levels of vitamin D had a higher risk of heart attack, stroke and heart failure compared to people with high levels of vitamin D, with an NHS study finding that patients taking vitamin D alongside their heart medication had improved heart function.

This is the only vitamin that’s produced when your skin is exposed to sunlight. There are small amounts available in food too – oily fish, eggs, butter, cheese and leafy green vegetables, for example – but to ensure a healthy amount you either need to expose your skin to sunlight or take a supplement. In spring and summer, the majority of people can get enough vitamin D through sunlight on the skin and a healthy diet, but during autumn and winter people will need to rely on dietary sources.

It can be hard to get the recommended 10mcg through diet alone.

As it’s relatively easy to become vitamin D deficient in northern climes, especially during winter when sunlight hours are dramatically reduced as is our skin’s exposure to sun, it is a good idea to supplement.

Vitamin D is important in relation to calcium and phosphorus in your body – it regulates quantities of both and so taking calcium supplements, for example, without also regulating your vitamin D intake, could mean that you’re not getting the benefit.

While sunscreen does block the UV rays that create vitamin D, even total sunblock allows some rays to pass through and so if you spend quite a lot of time outdoors chances are you are already getting enough even with sunscreen. However, you can also take a supplement of 10mcg (400IU) daily. If you are darkskinned it is especially important to be aware of your vitamin D levels, as you may not make enough via the sun.

The amount of time needed in the sun is different for different skin types. Research shows that 15 minutes a day when the sun is reasonably strong is enough for most fair-skinned people, as long as the skin doesn’t go red.

Taken from www.saga.co.uk Supplied by Glyn Hardwicke

YOUR EXPERTS IN PROPERTY CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATIONS Turner & Morgan Developments Ltd is a professional, local building firm covering Bridgend, Porthcawl and Port Talbot areas.

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Mobile 07375 398785 or Office 01639 617225 or E-mail: info@turnerandmorgan.co.uk www.turnerandmorgan.co.uk 44 | seaside news

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COST OF CANCER

Rat e d E x ce lle n t

Happy New Year everyone, I trust you all had a peaceful Christmas. It was great to have some downtime in readiness for 2024.

We are hoping for an action packed year with hopefully lots of fundraising events on the cards. What we do need plenty of is people to sign up to our 3 Peaks Challenge. You can go onto our website www.costofcancer.org.uk where you can read all about it. On our website there’s also a link to the Global Adventure Challenges site who are the event co-ordinators and this is who you’ll sign up with. This is going to be a challenge which will test your limits of fitness and also your mental ability as these types of challenges are not just about physical ability.

You’ll have to put the training in as it’s a tough one. This one is done in under 24 hours so it’s not for the fainthearted, but we have every faith in you.

Keep an eye out on our social media for lots coming up this year.

Nicky, Emma & Cath Trustees

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FINANCE EVERY GOAL NEEDS A PLAN

ISA’s out there.

How much life assurance and critical illness cover do you need, if your climbing Mount Everest you’ll probably find there’s an exclusion clause!

Failing to plan, or planning to fail? Go see your financial advisor and they will put the crampons in place for a safe climb. See Pippa, Jeremy or myself at Abacus Assurance.

I remember fondly listening to Sherpa Tenzing the famous mountaineer talking about how he climbed Mount Everest in 1953 with Edmund Hillary at an event to enthuse financial advisors to succeed with his motivational address. He said how important it was to aim high and he certainly did that.

We all know every long journey begins with a single step and it’s the same for us as financial advisors when we first meet and PHILIP VAUGHAN advise clients, we need to know what they want to achieve and Director at Abacus Assurance Financial then we need to plan carefully how to achieve that goal.

Services Ltd. We’re always careful not to over commit our clients to what Call 01656 772222 they want to achieve, but at the same time we don’t want to disappoint them. If you fail at the first hurdle, then you might have been over ambitious but there’s no harm in that - it’s part WELCOME 2024 - PLEASE BE KIND! of the learning process.

Well, what a year 2023 turned out to be, with inflation, the cost I remember writing to Sir Leslie Joseph many years ago asking of living crisis and interest rates causing rather difficult financial him if he’d sell me his house one day. It was a very precocious conditions for many families whose finances were stretched, request, and the ensuing phone call nearly gave me a heart attack. Having said that, I did what Tenzing said, aim high and it sometimes close to breaking point.

Throw into the mix the ongoing situations in Ukraine and Gaza, eventually worked. as well as the political difficulties of both the Governments in Every important goal needs a plan like buying your first house needs a deposit, so that’s the first step of a plan. How much can Westminster and Cardiff Bay and you might be wondering that getting 2023 out of the way would be a relief for us all. At least you save or is there the bank of mum and dad?

How do you plan your pension how much should you save how Christmas provided a welcome break. early can you retire? All of this needs to go through the number Now that we’ve arrived in January 2024, it’s going to be another year to test our very patience and strength. cruncher, these days we call it ‘Cashflow Planning’ don’t you The good news is that we start this year with interest rates know! lower by a decent margin and lenders will want to start the year How to save for that dream holiday home, how do you do it with Design strong numbers.

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will be fierce and a price war between lenders could spark a more vibrant market, meaning good news for borrowers.

With inflation very much lower than we saw in 2023, a steady and sustained improvement will help guide the economy in the right direction, although we won’t see sharp decreases and steady is usually the best way forward to sustain proper recovery.

Which then brings us to the prospect of a possible early General Election - that’s just my feeling. Given that I am writing this before Christmas I just may get that right, who knows?

Anyway, welcome to 2024 to you all, and we at Dragon Financial will be around to help and assist in what is our 38th year in business.

Tel: 01656 782545 or 07768 418308 are the numbers you need to call us for a chat.

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Deadline date for the February issue is: MONDAY 15TH JANUARY

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www.abacusassurance.co.uk | Email : info@abacusassurance.com seaside news | 47

About Our Firm For over 100 years, Robertsons Solicitors have been dedicated to serving communities throughout Wales. We’re here to help.

We listen, support and advise our clients when they need it the most.

We’re proud sponsors of Porthcawl RFC and want to wish them good luck for the rest of the season.

Our Support Services Commercial Property Conveyancing Employment Law Family Law Education Law Litigation Personal Injury Claims Probate, Wills & Trusts Child Care Law Medical Negligence

www.robsols.co.uk | law@robsols.co.uk | 01656 362364 48 | seaside news

LEGAL THE IMPORTANCE OF MAKING A WILL Inheritance claims have been on the rise in England and Wales in recent years. With changing family dynamics, there has been an increase in second marriages and blended families. The Courts are now busier than ever with these types of family disputes. Yet many people think that these so-called ‘inheritance wars’ affect only those with a vast fortune. However, according to a channel five documentary series “Inheritance Wars: Who Gets the Money?” one-third of beneficiaries are unhappy with what they have received under the terms of a will and 25% of beneficiaries will challenge the will itself.

Without a valid will in place, the rules of intestacy prevail, which may mean that those you wish to provide for will receive nothing from your estate. Many people will be shocked to know that these rules may mean that their loved ones will not be taken care of after their death. Relationship types, such as cohabiting and unmarried couples are currently overlooked by the intestacy rules.

So, having an up to date will that reflects your current situation and takes into consideration any major life event is crucial.

Also, discussing the contents of a new will with your loved ones can help minimise possible disputes after your death. Having open and frank discussions with family or friends helps prevent surprises and can help minimise any misunderstandings that may arise after death.

A comprehensive, clear, and up to date will is the hallmark for

reducing the risk of potential conflicts and ensuring harmony between loved ones.

If you or a loved one wish to discuss making a will or you have not been left what you believe you are entitled to from an estate, then please get in contact with our leading team of experts here at Redkite Solicitors.

MADELINE RAND Red Kite Law LLP 01656 782070

Meet the Team Wills and Probate Bridgend and Porthcawl

Emma Priest is a Partner and the Private Client Team Lead for Bridgend and Porthcawl, having joined David & Snape, a predecessor firm of Redkite, in 1999. Emma holds the Solicitors for the Elderly client care in practice award, is a Legal 500 Key Lawyer and an Affiliate Member of STEP.

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Sophie Titley a solicitor at Redkite joined the team in May 2022. Sophie specialises in Private Client work and is a member of Solicitors for the Elderly, a Legal 500 Key Lawyer and a Member of STEP. Samantha Abbott has recently joined our Wills and Probate team with 14 years of local experience. Samantha’s role is a Chartered Legal Executive and she is an accredited member of Solicitors for the Elderly.

Joanne Parsons joined Redkite Solicitors in 2021. Joanne’s role is legal advisor for the Wills and Probate department in Bridgend and Porthcawl.

Old Castle Offices, South Street, Bridgend, CF31 3ED 4 Lias Road, Porthcawl, CF36 3AH www.redkitesolicitors.co.uk

seaside news | 49

GARDEN & NATURE SAVING PORTHCAWL’S SWIFTS Each year Porthcawl is visited by Swifts, arriving in May after a 7,000-mile journey from Africa and departing mid-August.

Considered the sound-of-summer by many, the excitable ‘screaming’ calls of these iconic birds on warm summer evenings are often the first sign to alert us to their presence.

Long lived, and entirely airborne until they breed at 3-4 years old, Swifts are loyal both to their partners and to their established nest sites. Their unobtrusive simple nests are typically found in small gaps under the eaves of older buildings and are therefore sometimes lost through home renovations.

Sadly Swifts find it very hard to locate new nest sites if they lose one, and need our help.

When the newly formed group Porthcawl Swifts identified a small Swift population in the vicinity of John Street, Victoria and Park Avenues, Porthcawl Town Council recognised its cultural and ecological significance. We are very pleased that they have now declared Porthcawl to be one of Wales’ first Swift-friendly towns.

Supported by Glamorgan Bird Club (a charity encouraging and supporting the enjoyment and conservation of birds within eastern Glamorgan, including Bridgend county borough) the Town Council is encouraging the take-up of Swift nest boxes by local residents and businesses. With Welsh Government ‘Local Places for Nature’ support, via Bridgend County Borough Council’s Countryside section, Swift nest boxes and their safe installation are being offered at no cost to homeowners whose houses fit the criteria. This will be in early 2024 before the Swifts arrive; look out in the New Year for a leaflet with further information.

Meanwhile, if you are interested in helping these iconic endangered bird’s contact: Ceri.John2@bridgend.gov.uk or m_rgall@icloud.com Mary Gallagher, Porthcawl Swifts

LALESTON GARDENING CLUB

Happy New Year to all Members & Friends, let’s hope we can have a more peaceful world this year and can immerse ourselves in our gardens for solace and tranquility. The benefits of gardening or merely spending time in gardens is widely publicised as a pastime to enhance our mental health. So as Winter continues to do its worst with inclement weather, let’s plan another year in our gardens. Order seeds, usually we all order more than we need, but hey ho. It lifts the spirits to plan the colour schemes, the perfumes and the beautiful content of our borders for another season. Veg growers can imagine the harvest they will gather from their patch or allotment, all 50 | seaside news

this helps pass away the dark nights of January. If you’re very fortunate to have in your garden beautiful Galanthus, (Snow Drops) enjoy them, beautiful little flowers that give us hope that Winter will soon pass.

The Gardening Club lectures resume on January 8th with our friend Ivor Mace talking about growing veg in a small garden.

We look forward to seeing members on that evening at 7.30pm.

Our Ladies Section meetings will resume on January 9th at 7.30pm. Our Facebook gives up to date information and news.

Susan Ford

PORTHCAWL FLORAL ARRANGEMENT SOCIETY Happy New Year to all readers and I hope you all enjoyed a peaceful relaxing Christmas.

We have had a long break after our exciting Open Evening in the Pavilion when we were wowed by Elizabeth Gordon’s fantastic demonstration. We are looking forward to meeting again and will begin our year with a musical evening by Clive Williams on January 24th. This will be accompanied by a buffet supper. In February we have a demonstration on February 14th and a practice night on 28th February. This will involve making an arrangement in a pin holder. Instruction will be given and information about supplies. We hope to welcome new members who may have made a new year’s resolution to try a new hobby. In March we have a speaker meeting and a practice evening where we will make an Easter wreath. There is certainly plenty to look forward to.

New members and visitors are welcome at our meetings. You may enrol at any time throughout the year. The subscription fee is £30 for the full year and all meetings incur a £5 admission charge. We meet on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday evenings of the month at Awel y Mor Centre at 7pm. Please check out our Facebook page and WhatsApp group for more information.

Alison Thomas, Club Secretary (07581 048448)

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CEFN CRIBWR GARDENING CLUB “Anyone who thinks gardening starts in the spring and ends in the autumn is missing the best part of the year! Gardening begins in January with the dream!”

(Josephine Nuese).

Take root cuttings of perennials such as phlox (smells beautiful) and Japanese anemones and plant in free draining compost, lovely plants you can never have too many!

Press mistletoe berries into the bark of an apple tree, where they take root, for your own mistletoe plants next year, remember, the more mistletoe the more kisses, I love it (both the mistletoe and the kisses!)

Look out for early seed potatoes. Freshly dug spuds are in a class of their own for flavour, once they’ve chitted remove all but two or three of the new shoots before planting for best results.

Cover rhubarb crowns with an old dustbin or large pot to force it. If you can get it, cover the pot with horse manure, this heats up as it rots and forces the rhubarb faster.

I hope you all had a fantastic New Year celebration. Did you know in Switzerland they buy loads of ice cream and chuck it on the ground? It is supposed to bring good luck (messy though!)

Chris Early

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seaside news | 51

WHAT’S ON PORTHCAWL U3A

Is an organisation for people no longer in full time employment who want to keep socially, physically and academically active. We have over forty groups.

Website: porthcawlu3a.org.uk.

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 £28. To book contact Angela 07980 936198 or Email: angelarock11@ hotmail.com

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, Vice Chairman: terrypaulthomas1962@ 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

SLIMMING WORLD WITH MOLLY

6pm - The Scout Hall, Woodland Avenue, Porthcawl CF36 5HW. Call or text Molly on 07710 489645 for more details.

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.

52 | seaside news

PORTHCAWL COMMUNITY CHORUS

A day-time mixed choir covering a variety of styles. 1.30-3.00pm at Gilgal Baptist Church Hall. No auditions and no need to read music.

Just come along if you enjoy singing.

Contact: Maggie Jemmett on 07932 793355 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 Arlington Road Church, Arlington 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.

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 BREATHING SPACE CREATIVE GROUP

Find new skills and grow confidence at FREE creative arts sessions for adults. Wednesday 12.30-2.30pm in Awel-y-Mor Community Centre, Hwtchwns Terrace CF36 5TN. Helping to support wellbeing, positive mental health and reduce isolation. Run by arts charity Tanio to book contact helo@taniocymru. com 01656 729246.

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.

Promote your club/society: info@seasidenews.co.uk PORTHCAWL ART SOCIETY

SLIMMING WORLD, KENFIG HILL

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

Talbot Community Centre, Kenfig Hill 9.30am and 5.30pm.

Contact Millie: 07765 040006.

PORTHCAWL FLORAL ARRANGEMENT SOCIETY

SLIMMING WORLD, PORTHCAWL

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 7.30pm. Beginners and visitors welcome. We have tuition, demonstrations and social events.

See our Facebook page or call Alison on 07581 048448.

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.

PORTHCAWL TRIATHLON CLUB

Weekly coached run sessions at 6.30pm. Come along for a taster session. Check meeting location. Search Facebook or www. porthcawltriathlonclub.com All abilities and new members welcome.

SLIMMING WORLD, PORTHCAWL

Scout Hall, Woodland Avenue, Porthcawl, CF36 5HW 9.30am.

Contact Millie - 07765 040006.

SLIMMING WORLD WITH MOLLY

6pm - The Public Hall, Heol Las, North Cornelly CF33 4AS. Call or text Molly on 07710 489645 for more details.

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.

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.

FRIDAY 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 VETERANS HUB

At the Bowls Pavillion, Griffin Park, Porthcawl. 10am - 12 midday.

All veterans, serving military and families welcome. We offer support, guidance, chat in a relaxed atmosphere. Refreshments provided.

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 available food and beverages.

SLIMMING WORLD WITH MOLLY

8am & 9.30am - The Green Acre Motel, Heol Fach, North Cornelly CF33 4LH. Call or text Molly on 07710 489645 for more details.

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.

PROMOTE YOUR CLUB/SOCIETY: info@seaside news.co.uk

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The Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot Coming Soon... Yn Dod Yn Fuan...

BRONWEN LEWIS: More From The Living Room 26th January 26 Ionawr

THE GREATEST MAGICIAN 9th February 9 Chwefror

THE THREE LITTLE PIGS 16th February 16 Chwefror

ONE NIGHT IN DUBLIN

23rd February 23 Chwefror

RENT the musical

27th February - 2nd March 27 Chwefror - 2 Mawrth

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TOM DAVIS: Underdog 20th March 20 Mawrth

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­

Surf life saving is a very diverse sport and can offer 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, first aid, surf and beach sports such as wading, surf swimming, board paddling, beach flags, beach sprints and relays.

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For more information please contact:

seaside news | 57

SEA & SPORT NEPTUNE’S PIRATES BEACH CLEANS

SURFERS BALL 2023

By the time you read this, we’ll be well underway on our 2024 beach cleans.

As we’re in the depths of winter, there will hopefully be less debris coming from the land, however this does mean we’ll be seeing more coming in on the tide; with the harsher conditions, we see a lot more microplastics broken up on the strand line, which are really tricky to collect due to their size. Thankfully, we have new sieves to try out! This simple solution should allow us to separate microplastics from natural materials like sand and seaweed, leaving the good stuff where it belongs.

We love to see new faces at our beach cleans and everyone is welcome to join. We meet almost every other Sunday at Grow & Grind, with upcoming cleans at 10am on January 21st, February 11th and 25th.

For more info, check our ‘Captain Paul Watson Foundation UK’ FB page or our poster in the Pantri-Box window. We provide pickers and bags, so just bring yourself. Any schools, clubs or groups who would like to organise individual beach cleans just holler! Get in touch at southwales@paulwatsonfoundation. uk. It’s for the Oceans!

Elkz, Porthcawl

Winter 2023 saw the much-anticipated Surfers Ball return to the events calendar, organised

by Porthcawl’s very own Welsh Coast Surf Club, with what was a fantastic and well turned out event.

With an impressive array of prizes for the best dressed, generously provided by local businesses Balsa Surf, Coney Surf, PMs, Porthcawl Surf, This Is Beer, Dancing Turtle, Finnegan’s and The Greedy Pig - and it’s safe to say that everybody who attended had a blast!

Live music was provided by The Evil Turkeys who pumped out some of the most raw sounding ska punk tunes and had everybody pogosticking and crazy-legs dancing, with great ska support from the legendary DJ Robbie Owen, whilst the bar was propped up by many a legend swapping stories of ‘that barrel’ and clinking drinks.

Great to see the veterans there including Psycho, Greg Owen, Ally Barr alongside Stroud, Max Tucker, Rhyd ‘Rad’ Lewis and Tom Bentley, Jack Jones and a load of other groms too many to list!

Notable mentions to some of the winners - Best Couples group Ryan and Kirsty Rowe for an amazing effort (and now 5x champions!) James Kinsella for a dubious ‘Best Dancer’, Joel Peterson for his amazing James Bond, a special prize for Melissa Perry dressed as Amy Winehouse and runner up Ashleigh Brace.

Well done everyone who took part and made effort to make the night so special!

Well done Rudder Rava for donning that mankini and then getting thrown out for not wearing trousers, even though Nathan Allen arrived in speedos (brave man indeed and was

SEND US YOUR SPORTS NEWS Email: info@seasidenews.co.uk PORTHCAWL HARRIERS Porthcawl has plenty of fresh air and it’s free! About the only thing that is these days. Porthcawl Harriers is a social, fortnightly walking and running group, which has been up and running (excuse the pun) for two years. Now that we are huddled up for the winter in our homes eating more with less exercise, why not join us a friendly group with no age restrictions. Our aim is to walk or run a three-mile route, which has been pre-, selected over an hour in the Porthcawl areas.

The walk takes place on a Thursday evening once fortnightly, and we end at the pub with a much enjoyed affordable and optional meal and drink that are well earned! What’s not to like? We thank all the landlords and publicans who have hosted us over two years and wish everyone a Happy and Joyful Christmastime and New Year ahead.

For further information please contact Mr John Nelson @ Porthcawl Harriers via Facebook.

58 | seaside news

TIDES

Senior Men

SheGulls

SkyRats

Youth

6th Jan Swansea Uplands (H)

21st Jan Newcastle Emlyn (A)

6th Jan Trebanos (A)

Ospreys League Fixtures TBC

13th Jan Aberavon Green Stars (A)

28th Jan Ysysybwl (A) (Friendly)

13th Jan Dunvant Ath (H)

20th Jan Caerphilly (A) Cup

18th Feb West Swansea Hawks (H)

Low Tide: Lower Number (m)

High Tide: Larger Number (m)

JAN FEB 2024

awarded a well deserved prize for his efforts!

I particularly enjoyed dressing up as Beavis and Butthead with my long time old school buddy and ex Club President Tom Anderson, revisiting the iconic costume after 28yrs and remembering our first encounter of the 1995 surfers ball in the old Cove club. Shout out to Herbie for letting two underage kids into that one!

Big shout out to George Schofield and Angharad John for arranging the event and to The High Tide for hosting and putting up with a bunch of Jackasses. It’s a lot of work to arrange so everyone really appreciated and commented on what a success it was- well done…what a fantastic night.

Now it’s time to bust out the hooded suits and get into the realm of winter surf season now the frost has arrived. Just waiting for that next big winter swell….

Keep your eyes out for future events by the Welsh Coast Surf Club, it should be an action packed 2024!

Tris Davies WCSC

27th Jan Bridgend Sports (A)

An evening with

Nigel Owens Thursday 1st February 2024 Hosted by Ross Harries

Tickets £30

Includes one course meal by

Followed by The Hat and Fiddle Band Table booking of 10 £250 • Meet and greet table £400 Contact Gareth: 07387 075 401

Event supported by

porthcawlrfc.com

T: 01656 784242

Tide Times are BST adjusted (so no need to add an hour!).

The time you see above is correct Datum of Predictions = Chart Datum : 5.30 metres below Ordnance Datum (Newlyn) NATIONAL OCEANOGRAPHY CENTRE: COPYRIGHT RESERVED

seaside news | 59

TIDES Low Tide: Lower Number (m)

High Tide: Larger Number (m)

2024

2024

2024

MAR APR MAY JUN

Tide Times are BST adjusted (so no need to add an hour!).

The time you see above is correct Datum of Predictions = Chart Datum : 5.30 metres below Ordnance Datum (Newlyn) NATIONAL OCEANOGRAPHY CENTRE: COPYRIGHT RESERVED

60 | seaside news

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