Seaside News: December (Christmas) 2025 issue

PROTECT YOUR FUTURE WITH A LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) lets you choose trusted people to manage your health, welfare, property, or finances. It ensures your wishes are respected should you not be able to make your own decisions due to illness or injury.

We provide affordable and trusted local support to guide you through every step. This includes understanding the process, choosing your trusted attorneys, and ensuring everything is in place before the document(s) are registered.

• One LPA: £250

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Please note: The fees above are for our service and do not include the Court fees for registering the documents with the Office of the Public Guardian.

Book your FREE consultation with our expert team today and gain peace of mind. Call 01792 648866 or email enquiries@agecymruwestglamorgan.org.uk

Who is Age Cymru West Glamorgan?

Age Cymru West Glamorgan is a local charity that delivers trusted, quality assured and person-centred support that promotes well-being and empowers people to age well.

Our vision is that everyone in Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, and Bridgend is able to age well and enjoy life. www.agecymruwestglamorgan.org.uk Age Cymru West Glamorgan @agecymruwestglamorgan Scan the QR code Read our Beyond 50 Newsletter for quarterly information and resources direct to your inbox.

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LETTERS

FUNDRAISING CHALLENGE FOR SURFERS AGAINST SEWAGE

Dear Editor,

My daughter just completed a fundraising challenge for Surfers Against Sewage and raised over £350. Lola Robinson (12) of Porthcawl spent her month freezing cold and wet completing the Surfers Against Sewage Dip-A-Day October challenge, and she managed to raise over £350 for the cause! It wasn’t easy, and challenging conditions meant some swims had to be completed before school (6:30am alarm to be in the sea before 7:00), some after school waiting for storms to pass, and even floodlit nighttime dips when the tides were right! And a wetsuit was a no-no, so summer beachwear only! When she came down with an illness halfway through (most

LOOKING TO SWAP OR SELL HOUSE?

Looking to swap or sell a large detached house/small holding for a 3/4 bedroom detached house near the coast of Porthcawl or on the outskirts.

Located in a semi rural location, on the outskirts of the Brecon Beacon National Park. 18th century character building (not listed). Off road parking for 5 vehicles and two of them garaged. Set in a half an acre of secured gardens a mixture of stone buildings and stables. Property value £375,000 to £400,000.

likely caused by the very same sewage she was fundraising to help tackle) her siblings Astala (11) and Noah (15) got their summer swimwear on to dip on her behalf and fulfil her sponsorship obligations… so not a single day’s dipping was missed. It’s fantastic to see youngsters in Porthcawl throwing themselves (literally in this case) into trying to make a difference and to make our little seaside town a better place. She’s already planning Dip-A-Day October 2026, so we’ll hopefully see you in the water then!

Mark Robinson, Porthcawl

EVERY PENNY OF EVERY £1 SPENT IN THE BOROUGH

Dear Editor,

I read with interest how Councillor John Spanswick, Leader of Bridgend Council accounted for every penny of every £1 spent in the Borough. I was surprised by one significant omission. A recent Freedom of Information Request replied to by 254 of 317 councils showed that nearly a quarter of council tax goes on their generous pension schemes, with a 20% contribution as opposed to an average of 4.0% in the private sector, and retirement permitted from age 55. Some councils already spend more than 50% of their receipts on pensions.  So perhaps Councillor Spanswick could enlighten us on how many pence in the £1 are currently spent and what the projection is for the future.

Howard Lewis, Porthcawl

Deadline date for the January 2026 issue is: WEDNESDAY 10TH DECEMBER

For photos and further information Email: robjon97@yahoo.com or Mobile: 07368 432255

PROPERTY

SELLING YOUR HOME IN THE NEW YEAR

As most estate agents will tell you, one of the questions we are asked the most is: “When is the best time to sell my home?” While spring is traditionally seen as the prime season, the New Year is actually one of the most strategic times to bring your property to market. January and February consistently attract serious, motivated buyers—often with far less competition than later in the year.

After the lull of December, the property market wakes up quickly. As people return to work and settle back into routine, online property searches surge. Many begin the year with a “New Year, New Home” mindset, keen for a fresh start or ready to take the next step on the property ladder.

Listing your property in January positions you perfectly for an early spring sale. With solicitors and estate agents back at their desks after the holidays, the entire moving process gains momentum. Sellers who act early avoid the busy spring rush, when new listings flood the market and competition becomes fierce. By marketing your home before this influx, you ensure that your property stands out to those highly motivated buyers already searching.

There’s a common misconception that you need sunshine, blossom, and blue skies for the perfect property photos. In reality, professional photography and good presentation work wonders at any time of year. Waiting for “picture-perfect” conditions can mean missing out on the eager early-year audience.

Historically, some of the strongest sales happen in the first quarter of the year. This period often offers the ideal balance: high buyer demand but relatively low housing supply. In such a market, your home isn’t just another listing—it becomes one of the few quality options available,

reducing the risk of being lost among the sheer volume of spring and summer properties.

January is a month of planning, fresh starts, and new goals. If moving is on your list for the year ahead, acting sooner rather than later could secure you a quicker, smoother, and more successful sale. The early bird truly does catch the buyer.

For more information on all aspects of the property market, call 01656 331577, email enquiries@mchattons.co.uk or call into your local high street branch.

SIMON WILLIAMS

McHattons Estate Agents 01656 331577 info@mchattons.co.uk

Deadline date for the January 2026 issue is: WEDNESDAY 10TH DECEMBER

BOOKS

BOOK OF THE MONTH

DIDDLY SQUAT: THE FARMER’S DOG –JEREMY CLARKSON

Uncooperative animals, underperforming crops, and rather less than best-laid plans pursued with unbridled enthusiasm. Clarkson’s farm is the gift that keeps on giving.

But, as one overseas visitor* admitted, he only came to Diddly Squat because he just didn’t believe that Jeremy could be so incompetent. Not one to be discouraged, however, our hero decides to bring his misunderstood entrepreneurial flair to bear on a new venture: a pub. And just a few short weeks later, the doors open on The Farmer’s Dog.

All British produce, Hawkstone beer on tap, a private bar for farmers and a vintage tractor hanging from the ceiling. The perfect country pub. A welcome distraction from sustainable farming initiatives, psychedelic wheat, angry protests in central London and a headbutting goat. What, you may be asking, could possibly go wrong?

On top of the lavatories packing up and the electricity running out, you mean? As the Cotswolds’ newest publican quickly discovers, there’s a lot more to landlording than pulling pints. Just as well, then, that he still has Lisa, Kaleb, Cheerful Charlie and Gerald to help him through. Especially now his doctor’s told him he’s got to become a vegetablist … *along with the whole of the rest of China, apparently

NEW BOOKS AT PORTHCAWL LIBRARY

FICTION

NASH FALLS

David Baldacci

THE HAWK IS DEAD

Peter James

EXIT STRATEGY

Lee Child and Andrew Child

THE PROVING GROUND

Michael Connelly

THE WIDOW

John Grisham

THE CHRISTMAS RETREAT

Trisha Ashley

THE BLACK WOLF

Louise Penny

SILENT BONES

Val McDermid

GONE BEFORE GOODBYE

Harlan Coben and Reese Witherspoon

SHARPE’S STORM

Bernard Cornwell

NEVER LOOK BACK

Susan Lewis

KATE BLADON

Facebook: PorthcawlLibrary

THE REVENGE OF ODESSAFrederick Forsyth and Tony Kent

TYRANT OF ROME

Simon Scarrow

LET THE BELLS RING OUT

Milly Johnson

DEAD MAN’S TALE

Quintin Jardine

NON FICTION

BOOK OF LIVES: A MEMOIR OF SORTS

Margaret Atwood

WE DID OK, KID: A MEMOIR

Anthony Hopkins

NOBODY’S GIRL: A MEMOIR OF SURVIVING ABUSE AND FIGHTING FOR JUSTICE

Virginia Roberts Giuffre

RICK STEIN’S CHRISTMAS: RECIPES, MEMORIES & STORIES FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON

Rick Stein

FUNNY THING, GETTING OLDER: REFLECTIONS ON LIFE, STORYTELLING AND WONDER

Michael Morpurgo

Tel: 01656 754845 | 01656 754850

PHOTOGRAPHS

COASTAL CALM

FIRECREST IN GREENACRE

HOLIDAY SUNRISE IN SPAIN

GREY HERON

LIGHT BUOY MAINTENANCE REST BAY

STORM CLOUDS OVER PORTHCAWL

Claudette Evans, Kenfig Hill

Valerie Raikes, Cornelly

Alan Thomas, Porthcawl

Alan Rogers, Porthcawl

John Waller, Porthcawl

Martin Everett, Kenfig Hill

TWO FRIENDLY DONKEYS

SUNRISE OVER NEWTON

TERRIBLE TWOSOME

SUNRISE IN MARGAM PARK

WILD GOOSE CHASE

Alun Hussell, Bridgend

Louise Knowles, Bridgend

Malcolm Davies, Porthcawl

Mary Emment-Lewis, Porthcawl

Pete Nicholls, Porthcawl

Sandra Beer, Porthcawl

PHOTOGRAPHS

EYES FOR ME TOO

AUTUMN REFLECTIONS

SEASIDE STROLL

HUTCHWNS POINT

John Hughes, Porthcawl

Mariella Lewis-Meade, Guilford (Kent)

Daniel Ryan, Porthcawl

Marilyn Cook, Bridgend

Anthony Callaghan, Porthcawl

Brian Morris, Kenfig Hill

PHOTOGRAPHS

JAPANESE CHERRY TREE

STORM CLOUDY GATHERING

SUNSET OFF REST BAY

WASHED UP IN LOCAL ROCKPOOL

Kelvin Vincent, Pyle

Pat Lathey, Penyfai

Frankie Walters (aged 10), Bridgend

Steve West, Porthcawl

POEMS

THE NIGHT HELD US

Snow falls like the whispers held between you and I through the night, soft and slow, as though the world slowed, down for us to be together longer.

Your presence, a warm blanket on a cold, snowy winter’s eve, I can only dream that this night will never pass.

For all I wish for Christmas is your head on my beating heart.

As spring begins to approach, I think of that quiet night knowing wherever I am, you’ll remain the flame that burns bright when I miss you most.

Hywel Dyke, Bridgend

A RESPONSE FROM RICHARD

I thought that I was happy, truly believed I had it all,

A rising star, a family, my life was such a ball.

The poor boy from the valleys, the miner’s son made good,

Thanks to Philip Burton, stage, screen, Hollywood.

Sybil was faultless, both as a mother and a wife,

And then you chose that moment to crash into my life.

My chat up line made you squirm, a lock without a key,

Then a single match ignited a flame for all the world to see.

A magnetic attraction, two kindred spirits on a global stage,

Under a microscope, trapped like a pair of love birds in a cage.

We had the money, the finery, the riches and the fame,

The works of art, the diamonds, pearls, we even bought a plane!

Every move we made was followed, we didn’t have a hope,

We won, we lost but were doomed to fail, left swinging from a rope.

Front page news, adored by fans, up there with the best,

Yet still a pair of pawns caught in an eternal game of chess.

I admit I had my weaknesses; you had many too,

But through it all I never lost my undying love for you.

We married once, we married twice, but it all fell apart,

Yet still you held a special place right here in my heart.  Now the years have slipped away, I know the end is nigh,  So, for the final time, I have to say goodbye.

A searing pain inside my head, the darkness beckons me,  But I know someday we’ll be reunited, for all eternity.

John Coutanche, Porthcawl

GUYS AND GHOULS

October’s finale, fiendish fun abounds, one night’s bewitching ‘evil fest’. All Hallows Eve invokes the dead and lays its troubled ghosts to rest. What elixir does the cauldron brew, a secret potion! Who can tell?

Maybe for love or something worse but how to break the witch’s spell!

November bursts forth with a ‘Bang’, gunpowder, treason, an almighty blaze. Burning of effigies in fire and flames,  vital for this commemorative craze. Piercing the smokescreen of ‘Bonfire Night Sky’ a trillion cascading, glittering stars. Firecrackers explode uncomfortably nearby, rockets randomly head straight for Mars. ‘Rosy cheeked’ children waving gloved hands swirling sparkling wands that sizzle and flash.

A night filled with sparks like fireflies’ glow, soon to dim and to die, embers fading to ash.

Catherine Millard Payne, Bridgend

TO A FAMILY NOT YET FORMED

To a family not yet formed

In a place that wasn’t home

At a time that God had planned

The babe from Heaven has come.

In a bed that wasn’t his

But a trough of rough-hewn wood

Just like the cross of Calvary

To which his path would lead.

To a world that didn’t want him

Just when the need was great

He came to mend the broken hearts

And lead us back to God.

Pete Bennett, Porthcawl

BATTLE IN THE SKY

There’s a battle up there in the atmosphere,

As the rain clouds capture the sun. The sun fights back, tries to reappear  but its efforts are overcome.

Storm clouds form to bring up the rear, and the sky goes black to increase the fear.

The wind assists with power and aggression.

Clouds fall back as it makes an impression.

Rain falls heavy as the cloud’s retreats, There’s no return and no repeats.

The clouds disperse and release the sun, Sun shines again, the battle is won.

Paul Lyddon, Bridgend

UNWANTED

I felt so safe and warm,

Deep inside you.

Growing daily, forming slowly,

Waiting for the sublime moment

When I would enter the world

And my life would begin.

From a tiny speck I grew,

The product of a man and woman’s love.

Or so I thought.

Why should it make such a difference

That you were no longer together.

Unwanted.

With no chance of life

When others pray for children.

Unexpected.

The drug that you took.

Choking, gasping, fighting for life,

Till I was wrenched from the womb.

A life destroyed with no chance to cry out,

To beg for my right to live.

John Coutanche, Porthcawl

THE RANT

When life’s feeling scant

Then try a good rant. Don’t curdle and stew with a splutter. Be a trend-setter, cos nothing works better,

Than cursing out loud like a nutter.

And my favourite tirade which I like to parade,

Is an effing and blinding display. When I’m spewing out loud, as I play to the crowd.

With the bluest of language conveyed.

And while I’m immersed in the world of the curse.

I don’t tinker around on the fringe. I don’t undercharge, I effing go large. In fact it’s more of a binge.

And the words that I choose, when I wish to abuse.

Are spicy brutal and fitting.

So the curse that I pick, to ensure that it sticks.

Must be acrid, I don’t mind admitting.

The rules of bad language, do come with some baggage.

So the world is not quite your oyster. You must never succomb in front of your mum.

Cos your outburst will just disappoint her.

My favourite phrase, when tempers are frayed.

Is the swear word I use and prefer. The bestest bar none, and it rolls off the tongue.

It’s the F word, the king of all slurs.

This four letter word which I think we’ve all heard.

Is effective when one’s feeling vexed. It brings about tension, provides apprehension.

To any situation addressed.

And the word’s innovative, and it can be elative.

With examples of use, I digress.

Like when your surprised, like winning a prize.

Or a shriek of delight when impressed.

And we also concur that it can be a slur. In the form of a fingered salute.

A mediaeval invention when an archers intention.

Was insulting their foes, who they shoot.

In perfecting a rant, practise your chant. In the morning when rising from bed. By swearing out loud, be disgusting and loud.

Try luring them Eff’s from your head.

You’ll find it ecstatic, probably fantastic. Try yelling out loud on the loo. And the joy it will bring, cos swearing is king.

It’s really the best thing to do.

And the contentment it brings, that word let it sing.

It’s simply the jack of all trades.

For all kinds of reasons, it’s a word for all seasons.

The F word has never betrayed. Chris Worth, Porthcawl

THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS

Christmas time is just round the corner One of the most exciting times of the year,

When we make contact with families and friends, And think of those who are no longer here.

But cast a thought to others around you, Who have no families or their friends are too few, Who spend Christmas time all on their own?

These are the people we must think of too.

A next door neighbour or a colleague in work,

Spread your net of celebrations all round, Wrap them in the Spirit of Christmas, They’re sitting just waiting to be found.

For them Christmas is really a nightmare, A time of sadness and anger too… Where the jollity and laughter they hear all around, Makes them miserable and left feeling blue.

Marilyn Cook, Bridgend

POEMS

THE AUCTION

Someone told me you were up for auction,  run-down, in need of TLC.  A four bedroomed terrace with garden,  so, I booked a viewing, to see.

I hardly recognised your features,  sash windows in need of repaint,  fire-doors, self-contained flats and bathrooms,  cash-flow would be my constraint.

Years ago, you were a single dwelling,  one entrance, one bathroom, one loo.  Partitions now form self-containment  with kitchens and bathrooms too.

Which of these rooms had been my bedroom?

I’m sure it’s the one now a store,  and my grandmother’s favourite window-seat,  unfortunately, is no more!

You’ve worked hard to generate a living,  been used to bringing in the rent.  You’re tired, burnt-out and waning,  in a sad state of discontent.

But I remember those days of childhood  when you kept us all safe and warm.  Picnics outside in the garden.  Children’s plays we’d love to perform.

Celebrations at Christmas and birthdays.  Guests all gathered around inside.  Your façade a backdrop for street parties,  wearing Mum’s knitted bunting with pride.

But over the years our bond got broken.  Everyone left us through your front door.  Leaving feelings of sorrow behind them  as our family home was no more.

But I sense that you still remember me.  I feel for your pulse though the walls.  Memories all come flooding back to me,  like the mosaic tiles in your hall.

I’d love to be able to buy you and  restore you back to our home.  Tear down your fire-doors and notice boards.  Bring colour back to your monochrome.

Then we could retreat here together,  have tea again, out on your lawn.  Invite neighbours and friends over to party  and admire your floorplan redrawn.

Someone told me the date of the auction,  and what the guide price was meant to be.

My financials were logged with the agent,  so, I registered an interest, to see.

And as the auctioneer strikes his gavel,  he shouts, ‘sold to the lady in blue!’  I can hardly wait to tell you, that  I’m coming home to you, number ‘32’.

Verne Farrugia, Porthcawl

TIKI

There’s a tiki on my table

Where a house plant used to be It’s meant to represent my ancestors

Watching over me

But I don’t know what good they can do

From inside a bit of wood

Even if they want to help me out

Even if they could

“They f**k you up”, said Larkin

In his “This Be the Verse”

So, anything my little tiki does

Could not be any worse

And if there is an afterlife

To which they may have gone

And there’s not much else for them to do

Then why not, where’s the harm?

And sometimes now when I look back Into its eyes of papa green

I look back too into my past

What was and might-have-been

I see a past that’s gone and can’t be changed

A future not yet writ

And all I can change is my Here and Now

Even if only a bit

So, on I go to days unknown

Not knowing what I’ll see

With the tiki on my table

Where a house plant used to be Greg Lord, Porthcawl

DECEMBER WEAVES A GENTLE RAY

The markets hum with scented air, Of cloves and warming wine, And jumpers loud as midnight chimes Proclaim, “It’s Christmas time!”

We clink our glass to carol tunes, In pubs both snug and loud, For British hearts love tinsel nights, And laughter in a crowd.

With paper hats and cracker fights –  The sprout debate revived.

The babbled tree, with gifts beneath, You know Christmas has arrived.

The fairy lights are glowing bright, From office jokes to Boxing cheer.

The turkey’s carved, the pudding flames, A wonderful time of the year.

And though the lights will fade away, It really was such fun.

For December weaves a gentle ray – Of love for everyone.

Claudette Evans, Kenfig Hill

LOVE IS UGLY

I hate how soft my face feels after I cry, What’s usually rough and scarred feels as smooth as the innocence I long to return to.

I hate how pretty blood looks on skin, But once the cut scabs skin becomes jagged and harsh.

I hate how my body punishes me for its functioning,

Aching and clicking after all I do is live the life left for me.

I want to love but love is ugly.  Beauty is harsh and punishing, but love is the scarred skin, the healing and the responses and resilience to hate.

You can’t go back to a life of innocence and freedom, but you can love your reality.

Love is ugly and hate is pretty and that’s people hate to love themselves.

Ocean Smith, Porthcawl

Deadline date for the January 2026 issue is: WEDNESDAY 10TH DECEMBER

MARGARET MAKES THE BEST PUDDING

She comes gleaming from the kitchen

Pudding steaming, blue flames dancing Whilst we sing ‘Bring us some figgy pudding’

In the darkened room.

The flames die down; the lights go up. We cheer and she asks me

‘’Which one?’ Pointing to the pristine trifle

But she knows the answer, ‘Christmas pudding please.’

She takes a shiny stainless-steel slice And cuts into the black dome. A heady smell rises with the steam Whiskey and Rum engorged fruit Spill out as she removes a wedge She gathers them onto my plate And proffers it into my hands.

I look at the differing browns, Toffee, chocolate, Guinness black.

Take a large portion of brandy butter And splodge it on my pudding

Watch as it starts to yield and melt

Running tiny streams of butter

Over and into the pudding.

Caramel mixing with the dark brown Juices on the white plate.

Next whipped double cream Carefully placed.

I select the perfect spoonful And place it in my mouth. The fruity pudding hot on my tongue

Melting butter melding with The cold bland cream.

A flawless flavour combination

I start to chew and the fruits burst

Releasing a dozen new notes  That mingle and jive Deliciously

Until one sweet juicy note Fills my mouth and smooches

Round my teeth and tongue. The flavour slowly subsides And I am left wanting more

Linda Bean Kennedy, Porthcawl

ON THE TRAIN

Plan your journey, well in advance, Get the right tickets? Take a chance. Wait on the platform, is it on time? Here it comes, all is fine.

Jostled onboard, find our seat, Nobody’s pinched it, relax, no heat.

Store your luggage, where does it go? No room on the rack, not allowed on the floor.

Time to relax, the journey’s ahead, The carriage fills, noise widespread. Do I listen, or try to ignore?

Egotistical business calls, such a bore. Why bother with this?

Expensive tickets, the destination far, But let’s be honest, it beats the car!!

Selwyn W Jones

PORTHCAWL TOWN

Down by the shore where the rides used to spin, The laughter’s faded, still the tide creeps in.

Candyfloss ghosts swirl along the sand, The fairground’s fenced for the developer’s hand.

Oh Porthcawl Town, you’re still my home, Forever, the sea breaks up the stones. Empty shops line the old parade, Where dreams were sold and memories made.

Charity shops behind every pane, Names of the past washed out by rain. The pubs grow quiet, their jukeboxes still, No clinking of glasses, not much in the till.

A surprise in September, stage lights shine,

The ghost of Elvis walks the line. He sings to the crowds which frequent the bars, Wearing wigs and rhinestones, strumming old guitars.

Oh, Porthcawl Town you’re still my song, Though your golden days are somewhat gone.

The promenade hums a lonely chord, But love remains, within the heart restored.

So, here’s to the waves, the rust, the grey. All the promise that’s whipped away. ‘Cos even when the old signs fall down, There’s still much soul in Porthcawl Town.

T. Emlyn-Jones, Porthcawl

SEVEN-YEAR-OLD BOY

A seven-year-old boy wakes up in his bed, rubbing his eyes, ‘Hello Mam’ he said

His mother is there, sitting by his side ‘What’s wrong Mam, why do you cry?’ ‘Dad’s gone, my love, I’ve just said goodbye.’

‘Where’s Dad gone?’ asked the sevenyear-old boy,  hugging his Ted, his favourite toy. ‘He’s gone to heaven, my love’ she replies, holding his hand with tears in her eyes.

‘Where’s heaven Mam, is it a nice place?’ ‘Yes, one day we’ll all meet there with the Lord’s grace’

They go downstairs, it’s just not fair.  Dad’s not there, in his favourite chair. His Mam, so sad, in disbelief, tries her best to cope with her grief.

Suddenly gone, with no warning or sound,

The mine took her husband deep underground.

She must press on, she will push through, for the love of her son, as all mothers do. Paul Lyddon, Bridgend

ABSENCE OF SPIRIT

The end of the year is nigh it’s so difficult to believe, when it only seems a blink ago to last year’s Christmas Eve. Once festive December arrives all common sense departs, it’s the season now for spending as the ‘Countdown to Christmas’ starts. Supermarkets stacking shelves up high bosses rubbing their hands with glee, online sales going through the roof their fortunes made by ‘you and me’.

Busy checkout tills ring far louder than the bells of a quaint church tower, for the few who pass through those sacred aisles profit from a ‘Supreme Higher Power’.

Is this then what Christmas is about when it should mean so much more? Or am I looking through the bottom of an empty glass to my Christmases of yore?

Catherine Millard Payne, Bridgend

PORTHCAWL TOWN COUNCIL –MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

Regeneration

The talk of the town is that Bridgend County Borough Council (BCBC) has launched the Porthcawl Waterfront Masterplan, and it looks like Porthcawl will have its swimming pool after all!

It appears that BCBC have been listening to residents following the previous eleven consultations that have been conducted over the last few years, and thanks especially to ‘A Voice for the Future – Porthcawl’ who have engaged directly with the Local Authority at every level and every stage, to ensure that voices have been heard.

The final plans include a skate park, pump track, mini golf, the tripling the size of Griffin Park, protection of the historic dunes, a mix of homes and commercial opportunities, open space, a hotel and of course the Lido!

The local development plan (LDP) which was consulted on in 2023 and accepted in 2024, initially had more than 1100 homes, so it’s good to see that there has been a reduction, as the plan includes up to 980 dwellings.

I will personally be keeping an eye on the sustainability element of the plan and the design code as these will ensure that the development meets the needs of the future.

The next phase is the Pre-Planning Application Consultation (PAC) which is open until 5th January. This is an exciting time for Porthcawl - please continue to feedback your views to feedback@porthcawlwaterfront.co.uk

Remembrance

It was an honour to lay wreaths on behalf of the community this year at All Saints Church, Stormy Down and Porthcawl Cemetery for Remembrance activities. Never forgotten. Byth Anghofiadwy.

Condolences

Sincere condolences regarding the recent passing of Mr John Jones and Mrs Kristina Buffet and our thoughts go out to all family and friends.

Happy Birthday

I was delighted to be involved in the celebration of the Ms Joyce Bowens special day and I am the community will join me in wishing her a very Happy 101st Birthday - Penblwydd Hapus iawn!

What’s Been Happening?

It was a pleasure to help celebrate 75 years of Porthcawl Rotary in the company of the wonderful Porthcawl Bandits. Here’s to the next 75.

Thanks to Porthcawl Sea Cadets who have launched a Mayor’s Cadet badge, where a cadet nominee will accompany the mayor at civic events. And don’t forget that you can register to be a community consort this year, by emailing info@porthcawltowncouncil.gov.uk. Thank you to all my community consorts this month.

As we celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the Christmas Morning Swim in the same year that Porthcawl celebrates its 200th year, it’s timely to acknowledge all the hard work by the volunteers that make this event so successful. I would particularly like to mention Mrs Marilyn Smith who was pivotal to the success of the Christmas Swim and dedicated her life to Porthcawl in many ways not only as former Clerk to the town but by way of continued involvement in many local organisations Porthcawl’s Twinning with Ploudalmézeau in Brittany is progressing, and we are aiming to sign the official charter in the new year.

BCBC Mayoral Citizenship Awards have been launched – please submit your nominations at bridgend.gov.uk so that the wonderful citizens of Porthcawl get their just acknowledgment. It was good to see businesses join in the ‘Hapus i Siarad’ (Happy to Talk) scheme where Menter Penybont work with organisations who want to learn Welsh. And don’t forget that there is a Welsh learner’s ‘Bore Coffi’ in Capel Tabernacl, Fenton Place on 1st Saturday of every month.

Christmas

I very much look forward to sharing stories of the past with our long-standing Porthcawl born residents at the wonderful annual Jenkin Henry Tea Party on 11th December and as we launch the Christmas season at our event in John Street on 6th December between 1pm and 5pm please look out for our new decorative lighting around the town and seafront. The new lights are part of a phased programme, and going forwards the Town Council hopes that they will go from strength to strength. We look forward to working with you all to light up Porthcawl for years to come.

Seasons greetings Cyfarchion yr Wyl.

CLLR ELEN JONES Mayor, Porthcawl Town Council

at Sands Private Health Clinic

www.valelaser.co.uk

Emsella Chair treatment treats stress incontinence, urge incontinence and mixed incontinence, vaginal laxity and erectile dysfunction

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NEWS

WISHING EVERYONE A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY 2026

As 2025 draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on a busy year across Margam, Kenfig Hill, Cornelly, and Pyle.

We kicked things off with a coffee morning at the Pyle Family Breakfast Club. Advice surgeries in Margam, Kenfig Hill, Cornelly, and Pyle kept us busy supporting residents. I was delighted to support residents in their call to restore the old Mawdlam and Kenfig Pool bus service – a vital link for many – and I was proud to work with colleagues in Bridgend Council and the Senedd to make it happen.

Highlights included joining Party on the Pitch, visiting Tollgate Engineering, and playing with Cornelly Walking Football. It took some adjusting to the “no running” rule, but it’s a brilliant game – and just as tiring!

We also celebrated Welsh culture in style, welcoming the Urdd Eisteddfod to Margam and enjoyed the wonderful In It Together Festival.

We came together for Baby Loss Awareness Week, joining the moving ribbon remembrance display at Heathbridge Miners Square.

As we wrap up 2025, I’d like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

STEPHEN KINNOCK

MP for Aberafan Maesteg www.stephenkinnock.co.uk/contact/

HELP TO SPREAD SOME CHRISTMAS CHEER

REGENERATING PORTHCAWL TOGETHER

I want to thank everyone who has contributed to the Porthcawl Waterfront Regeneration plan so far. Finding the right balance between local needs, commercial realities and people’s wishes is not easy, but the masterplan has successfully if mix in the right measures.

This is largely down to your involvement. We have listened to what you want, and while the masterplan will be a long-term process requiring suitable funding and development partners, we have included as many of your ideas as possible while ensuring they remain deliverable.

The masterplan also puts the community first. For example, some may have assumed it includes housing purely to generate money, but Bridgend County Borough will grow by 13,700 people within the next eight years. Unless we build more houses, not everyone will have a home in future.

Because we want the housing to serve Porthcawl’s needs, we will also prioritise local people, make up to half the homes affordable, introduce different tenures, and place restrictions on using them for holiday lets or second homes.

This has all been possible because residents have worked alongside the council and Welsh Government to deliver this vision for Porthcawl. Exciting times are ahead, so I hope you have a merry Christmas – see you in 2026.

COUNCILLOR JOHN SPANSWICK

Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council

Tel: 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk

Two very worthy appeals are taking place in the run-up to Christmas, and if you are quick, there is just enough time left to show your support.

The 2025 Santa Appeal ensures that vulnerable children and young people aged up to 21 can receive a festive gift on Christmas morning.

You can either donate money before 12 December to www. justgiving.com/campaign/santa-appeal-2025, or drop off an unwrapped new present inside a gift bag by 4 December to either the Civic Offices, Pyle or Porthcawl library, or Maesteg or Garw Valley sports centre.

At the same time, donations of money, food and other festive treats are being gratefully received in support of a Christmas dinner appeal which seeks to provide vulnerable people with a merry Christmas.

I wear my chef whites for this appeal as it involves a small army of volunteers who work out of the Talbot Community Centre in Kenfig Hill. From here, we prepare, cook and deliver Christmas dinners to vulnerable local people throughout the county borough, including children, local families struggling with the cost of living, elderly residents, people living alone, refugees fleeing conflict and more.

If you want to donate or get involved, please email me at cllr. jane.gebbie@bridgend.gov.uk

COUNCILLOR JANE GEBBIE

Deputy Leader Bridgend County

Borough Council

Tel: 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk

STILL TIME TO TELL US WHAT YOU THINK ON

REGENERATION PLANS

I hope that you were able to attend the recent public event at the Hi Tide and view the draft masterplan for the Porthcawl Waterfront Regeneration in full.

The council’s regeneration officers and Welsh Government representatives were on hand to answer questions and provide clarification, and we were able to reveal more details about the range of new facilities that we want to deliver alongside the much-needed new housing.

If you weren’t able to attend or have not yet submitted your feedback, the deadline is 5 January so you still have time – simply visit www.porthcawlwaterfront.co.uk to view the masterplan and email us your views.

As well as viewing the plans, it is important to also read through the answers that have been prepared to frequently asked questions. Because we are aware that many have wondered about issues such as car parking, the potential impact on drainage systems or the availability of GP services, responses to such concerns have been included within the FAQs.

If you have already given us your feedback, thank you – this will all be analysed and considered as part of the planning process, so look out for more news in 2026.

Until then, have a merry Christmas!

COUNCILLOR NEELO FARR

Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Housing

Tel: 01656 643643 www.bridgend.gov.uk

MY CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

AS Christmas approaches, we are reminded of what values matter most – compassion, decency, and integrity. In a world too often marked by conflict and division, this season we find ourselves called back to honesty, humility, and hope. Leadership must be grounded in principle, guided by conscience, and dedicated to the common good rather than personal ambition. Globally, we’re seeing great damage caused when politics becomes about power rather than people.  But within Wales, and especially in our coastal community, we are blessed with strong local spirit, generous hearts, and a shared belief in fairness. So, let us make 2026 the year of honesty in politics. A time to restore sacredness, to trust, to serve with sincerity, and always to talk with honesty. By supporting one another: through volunteering, caring for our neighbours, helping local businesses thrive, and keeping faith in the good that unites us, we can face the future with renewed optimism. This Christmas, may we all find peace in our homes, hope in our hearts, and renewed strength in our shared humanity. I’m wishing every reader of Seaside News a joyful Christmas, and a prosperous New Year!

DR ALTAF HUSSAIN MS

Welsh Conservative Senedd Member for South Wales West

MERRY CHRISTMAS

I can’t believe it’s December and the countdown to Christmas has begun! It’s been a busy year across Bridgend & Porthcawl, and I want to thank Porthcawl residents for supporting one of my big campaigns. A few months ago, I teamed up with Awen Libraries and Bridgend Foodbank for the Back-to-School Stationery initiative to ensure all local school children had the supplies they needed. Porthcawl Library was the busiest donation point – thank you to everyone who donated and to the library staff for their fantastic support. This festive season, I’m excited to share my Bridgend & Porthcawl 12 Days to Christmas Choirs on my Facebook page, featuring daily performances from our talented local choirs –tune in for a dose of Christmas cheer!

I also want to thank the Porthcawl businesses who joined my Small Business Saturday campaign in November. Supporting local businesses is vital, as they are the backbone of our communities. Shopping locally this Christmas helps both businesses and the wider economy. See all participating businesses on my Facebook page by searching Chris Elmore MP. Looking ahead to 2026, I’ll be hosting another Funding Advice Day to connect local charities and organisations with major funders. Details will be shared on Facebook soon, so keep an eye out if your group is seeking support.

Thank you to all constituents across Bridgend & Porthcawl for your continued support. I wish you a Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year. If I can help with anything, email me at Chris.elmore.mp@parliament.uk

CHRIS ELMORE MP Member of Parliament for Bridgend & Porthcawl

www.ChrisElmore.wales

SCHOOLS

PORTHCAWL COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL

As I write, we are preparing for our Carol Service which will take place in the beautiful setting of All Saints church on Wednesday 17th December at 7pm.  The school is ringing with the sound of Christmas music, and we eagerly look forward to welcoming you all to enjoy it with us.  It promises to be a musical extravaganza once again, with pupils from all year groups taking part and showcasing their talents. There are lots of festive activities planned towards the end of term including our whole school Winter Sports activities, Christmas Dinner and several other community activities. November saw lots of enrichment, educational trips and extra-curricular activities. Pupils in KS4 participated in a STEM event facilitated by the BBC. Year 11 pupils have completed their Dragon’s Den Pitches and pupils in KS4 & 5 have visited the French Institute in London.  We have also enjoyed a Skills Cymru Event in Cardiff, a SEREN Welcome Event and our Year 11 History pupils have completed the ‘Jack the Ripper Tour’ in London. Years 9 & 10 pupils are looking forward to a trip to Lille Christmas Market, and we are planning a trip to Winter Wonderland. In addition, we have enjoyed delivering our Year 6 Transition Events in Computer Science, it has been lovely to get to know our future Year 7 pupils.  As ever, it has been a busy term.  I wish you all a wonderful Christmas.  Mr Stephens, Head Teacher

PORTHCAWL PRIMARY SCHOOL

Christmas is coming to PPS, and we have lots of exciting activities planned!

We’re starting December with our Community Art Gallery event at Porthcawl Museum. Our masterpieces have now been framed, and we can’t wait to show Porthcawl our talents. We’ve really enjoyed learning about a range of different artists and exploring the techniques they use.

The performing

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

arts don’t stop there at PPS! We have not one, but two blockbuster shows planned for December. Our younger pupils are busy preparing their performance, Christmas Rhyme, while our older pupils are learning their lines for Christingle Rock. All our shows are run by our pupils, and we’re especially excited for our light and sound team and stage crew to get everything ready for showtime.

Our final Christmas event is a Parent STEM afternoon, where we’ll be inviting parents and carers into classrooms to work alongside pupils and take part in science and technology activities. There will be a range of festive, hands-on challenges for everyone to enjoy.

For more details about all our events and activities, please visit our website and read the latest edition of our newsletter. Don’t forget to check out our half-termly newsletter written by our pupils too!

Contact us: 01656 815660  admin@porthcawlps.bridgend.cymru  www.porthcawlprimaryschool.co.uk

NEWS FROM WEST PARK PRIMARY

Autumn began with our charity walk for Blood Cancer Wales. We were overwhelmed by the turnout and thrilled that Mr Tunnadine joined us. His years of dedication to West Park have shaped our school in countless positive ways. It was wonderful for him to see just how much he means to us all.

Pupils showed incredible resilience, marching through the rain with smiles and songs, proudly supported by pupils of Porthcawl Comprehensive. We’re hugely grateful to all families and the wider community for such generous fundraising towards vital research.

Early Years pupils blasted into space for an immersive, intergalactic adventure, while Year 4 explored what it takes to become an astronaut. Families attended Enterprise Events where the children proudly showcased their learning. Back on Earth, netball and rugby teams displayed fantastic West Park spirit in the Litchard and Kieth Grice tournaments.

NSPCC held a ‘Speak Out to Stay Safe’ assembly and School Council worked hard preparing Harvest donations for the local Food Bank. Big thanks to everyone supporting our Eco Green Leaf Shop, run brilliantly by Year 6.

As we write, concert rehearsals are in full swing and we are excited to spread Christmas joy. Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year!

West Park Primary 01656 815510   www.westparkprimary.org.uk  admin@westparkps.bridgend.cymru

SCHOOLS

NEWTON PRIMARY SCHOOL NEWS

Pink and Sandy Bay pupils have been enjoying our Wales Through Our Eyes topic by learning all about homes. We read Home by Carson Ellis and explored the many different types of homes found around the world. We also discovered how houses have changed over time in Wales and our families joined in by sending photos of us outside our own homes. To finish off, we went on a local walk to spot old and new houses. We were especially excited to find a thatched-roof cottage in Newton!

Year 2 have been on an incredible learning journey! As part of our Castle topic, the class explored the magnificent Caerphilly Castle, bringing history to life and deepening their understanding of everything we’ve been learning in school. The experience was invaluable and sparked so much curiosity! Back in the classroom, pupils have been applying their maths skills by learning to add different coins to make amounts. To make this real and exciting, we transformed our classroom into a breakfast café where pupils ordered and paid for their own breakfast. It was fantastic to see them confidently using their knowledge in a real-life context!

Master’s

NOTTAGE NEWS –NOVEMBER HIGHLIGHTS

November has been an exciting and busy month at Nottage Primary! Our School Council Cavaliers proudly led the Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Box Appeal in collaboration with Gilgal Baptist Church, encouraging kindness and generosity across the school. A huge thank you to all the families who donated items and created their own boxes – your support will bring joy to children around the country.

The PTA Fireworks Disco was truly spectacular! Thank you to our amazing PTA for organising such a fun-filled event and for giving back to our families in such a memorable way.

We also came together for Remembrance Day, observing the two-minute silence as a whole school community. Shortly after, we joined in the BBC Children in Need celebrations – our Year 6 pupils sold official merchandise and ran their own stalls, raising an incredible £1,035 for this fantastic cause. Well done, Year 6!

Our reception pupils enjoyed a wonderful trip to Ty Tanglwyst Farm, learning all about where the milk for their school dinners comes from – a truly hands-on experience!  Finally, the festive spirit is in full swing as our Christmas shows begin. They are amazing, and we can’t wait for everyone to enjoy them!

Phone/ Ffôn: (01656) 815540

Email/E-bost: admin@nottageps.bridgend.cymru

Website/Gwefan: www.nottageprimary.com

FEATURES

KENFIG NATURE RESERVE NEWSTHE KENFIG SOCIETY

The Kenfig Society was established in the 1989 by a group of local people interested in the history of Kenfig. As part of their work they carried out a number of ‘digs’ in the vicinity of the lost town of Kenfig.

Much of the material came from a ‘midden’, or rubbish tip, dating from around the 13th Century when the town was still active, before it began to be buried by blown sand. They found a large number of animal bones, fragments of pottery, iron items and lumps of furnace slag , indicating that iron smelting was carried out in the town. Oyster shells, winkles, dog whelks and limpets indicates that these were an important part of the townsfolk’s diet.

The Society is no longer active, but the material from these digs has been stored for the past 20 years in a WW2 building known as the Shelter, in the area known as Fernlea. As the Trust wishes to clear the building to make it available for other uses, the contents have been removed and have been catalogued and surveyed by a team from the National Museum of Wales, with a view to the Museum taking some of the material for their collections. A selection of items has been retained by the Trust and will form part of a display about the ancient borough. Mr Keith Edger has kindly donated £300 towards a Cabinet where the finds will be displayed.

FRIENDS OF MONZE (ZAMBIA)

Our charity is becoming well known in the Monze area where we support education and health projects and tend to get many requests for help.

We recently had a request from a school unknown to us for help with their two classrooms. The wind had blown the roof off the school.

We were sent a photo of the classroom full of neatly dressed school children just sitting on the floor. After investigation the building was found to still be solid after approx. 50 years. The roof had been on wooden beams that had rotted away, probably due to termites. The children being educated here have exams next month and would not be able to take them in the blazing sun. Nor would they be able to learn in the rainy season in November.

So, we decided to provide a good strong roof on metal beams quickly before the exams. We also realised they needed desks, a door and windows so we plan to completely update the classrooms and provide textbooks, story books and maybe a permaculture garden too.

For more information or a speaker for your group. www.friendsofmonze.org.uk

Belinda Green

THROUGH CHRISTIAN EYES

Who will you eat Christmas Dinner with this year? Our nation suffers an epidemic of loneliness, and many people will eat alone. It’s always heartening to hear about groups who open up at Christmas Time to offer meals for the lonely people of our community.

At Gilgal Baptist Church we run a regular Lunch Club on Wednesday throughout the year, a Warm Hub on Thursday, Foodbank in the Y Centre on Tuesday and Thursday morning. And this year on Christmas Eve we will be providing Coffee, Cake and Carols at 11am. Come and join us, get out of the house for an hour and enjoy the company.

We also have our Christian worship: an ‘open air’ at John Street 11am Saturday Dec.20th, Family Christmas Service 10.30am Sunday Dec.21st, Carols by Candlelight 5pm Sunday Dec. 21st, and Christmas Day Family Service 10am on Dec.25th. We celebrate a Saviour who shares our hardships, one who found shelter in the stable.

The birth of Jesus Christ shows us God knows our struggles, loves us and wants to help us. Why not explore Christian faith this Christmas? We would love to help you. For more information contact us at Gilgal Baptist Church, Porthcawl. Rev. Martin Gillard

PORTHCAWL INNER WHEEL NEWS

At our meeting and Lunch at The Hi Tide in October we had speakers from Porthcawl Stroke Club, Secretary Sue gave a film presentation of the work and help they give Stroke Survivors. Presidents Mary and Keith Duggen have been instrumental in keeping this organisation going for some time. President MEL and Inner Wheel members gave a very warm response to their talk with a donation.

Our Motto this year is ‘Step up and lead by example’ This is given out by our new International President every year and this month so far, we have given Community Service to Victoria Homes with a Harvest Basket full of fruit and in December we will give a shoe box filled with Goodies. President MEL is hosing a Mulled Wine and Mince Pies evening in aid of The salvation Army in December and every social function we do has a raffle with Proceeds going to Local Charities. (We also gave a donation to Janice and Our CC Liz Jones on their passing to their charities)

We also had our District Chairman Sonia’s visit who came to our Lunch and gave her a Donation to her charity ‘Marys Meals ’. Every 10 pence given will feed a child on one day in school in Africa.  Our ‘Orange walk’  proceeds will go toward the charity, Stop Violence to Girls and Women.

We take this opportunity to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year

Anyone wishing to find out more about us?  Get in touch with: emmentlewis@aol.com, or dianarichardson@btinternet.com  Club Correspondent Suzanne Jefferies

SKER WI NEWS

We have been quite busy during the last few weeks. On 27th October we held our annual Halloween themed Beetle Drive with some members dressing up in Halloween costumes! The committee provided a selection of homemade cakes for our tea break, and it was a fun and entertaining evening with a prize for the winner and a wooden spoon for the member with the least points. There was also a raffle with several prizes. The November speaker was a member of Porthcawl RNLI who gave a very interesting talk / presentation. He began by giving

advice to cold water swimmers…though surprisingly there are none of those at Sker! The RNLI was founded in 1824 and started in Porthcawl in 1860. In those early days the lifeboat was housed surprisingly behind the now aptly named Boat House fish and chip shop!

Some of our members have also been busy making ‘Caps for Courage’ which the Lions Club is collecting for children undergoing cancer treatment. We also have a trip planned to go to Nant Garw Chinaworks Museum at the end of the month and we are all looking forward to our annual Fish and Chip supper at our December meeting.

Pamela Powell

Deadline date for the January 2026 issue is: WEDNESDAY 10TH DECEMBER

GUIDE DOGS CYMRU FUNDRAISING

Guide Dogs fundraisers in Bridgend borough love testing their general knowledge, so they were delighted when quizzers at the Three Horseshoes pub in Cefn Cribwr chose the group as its charity of the month. The pub, which holds a quiz every Sunday night, raised £261 for Guide Dogs Cymru during October. Local guide dog Buddy went along with guide dog puppies Ronnie and Pickle to meet the customers and thank the pub for its support.

The quizzes coincided with Guide Dogs Puppy Appeal month, when the community comes together to raise vital funds. It costs £77,000 to breed, raise and train each guide, and the Bridgend group is grateful to all the businesses that support the cause with bucket collections and counter-top boxes.    Young people particularly love hearing about the work of guide dogs, and the Bridgend group was invited to visit Ysgol Cwm Brombil in Margam during Guide Dogs Appeal month. With a cake sale, donations and a sale of Guide Dogs merchandise, the school donated a magnificent £568.42 towards the Guide Dogs Puppy Appeal.

The group hopes 2026 will be a great year for Guide Dogs in Bridgend borough. To get involved, visit the Guide Dogs website: www.guidedogs.org.uk

Pic: Members of Guide Dogs in Bridgend accepting a cheque from the Three Horseshoes pub in Cefn Cribwr

FEATURES

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN PORTHCAWL

It’s always a joy to welcome new people to our monthly beach clean – thank you everyone who has taken part! Our final session for 2025 will be on Tuesday 9th December – meet us outside Sussed at 11am. We’ll have an hour’s litter pick, followed by a cuppa and chat.

Plans are well underway for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in January. It’s a special time when we pray, worship, and share fellowship alongside Christians the world over. The theme for 2026, ‘One Body, One Spirit’ (Ephesians 4) inspires us to work together, united in faith and hope, to serve our local community, and important international causes. Why not join us for our joint service at Trinity Church on Sunday 18th January at 6pm? Or perhaps a soup lunch, a coffee morning, or – new for 2026 – a prayer walkaround the centre of Porthcawl? More on Facebook soon: www.facebook.com/porthcawlchurches.

Thanks to everyone who has contributed to the BrynUkraine Project, which comes to an end this month sadly. It has been heartening to see so many people from different churches providing donations, transport and financial support for this cause.

A blessed and peaceful Christmas to you all - Nadolig Llawen i chi gyd!

David Robinson

PORTHCAWL TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD NEWS

Our November speaker was Mr John Sheen and again John had us all chuckling and provided the uplifting tonic we needed. There will not be a meeting in December with a speaker as it is the time of year for our members to dig out their ‘bling’. Ladies will get decked out in glitz and glamour to celebrate the festive season and dine in style. We will continue this tradition with our ‘ladies wot lunch’ and amalgamate all our members. The aim and objective is to exude glamour and dazzle as we enter the Christmas spirit with gusto.

To reiterate there will be no meeting in The Grove GC on the second Wednesday at 2.00pm of this month. We will be back “on track “again with our scheduled programme in January.  Last but by no means least, our members would sincerely like to wish each reader a Merry Christmas, with the hope that at this special time of the year, with family and friends they create happy and everlasting memories.

Pat Ladlow President

NEWS FROM THE TALBOT

With Christmas not far away, please keep in mind that the Talbot has a large choice of books, all in good condition.  People are popping in to buy our books for stocking fillers for Christmas.  Many are hard backed written by popular authors.

Our Poppy Lunch to commemorate Remembrance Day was held earlier in November.  After the service around the monument, wreaths were laid by members of the local organisations.  Following this, those who had booked enjoyed a three-course roast lunch in the Talbot Hall.  Once again, the ladies of Bethel Community Church did us proud and we all enjoyed the afternoon.  Preparations are underway for ensuring that vulnerable residents of Bridgend Borough Council can enjoy a fantastic festive dinner with all the trimmings this Christmas.  As this annual event is run entirely by volunteers and relies upon donations of food, treats, and other Christmas items, residents, businesses and local organisations are once again being asked to show their support.     I recently mentioned in the Seaside News that we had been successful in winning funding from Asda.  We have now received the cheque and are looking forward to doing some shopping!

Cheryl Butcher – Trustee  Email : talbotcc@tiscali.co.uk

PORTHCAWL ROTARY –FESTIVE SEASON

The festive season is upon us, and Porthcawl Rotary is once again bringing joy to the community with its muchloved Christmas Carolcade, running from 4th – 16th December. Father and Mother Christmas, along with their sleigh and reindeer, will be spreading Christmas cheer throughout Porthcawl.

The Rotary Christmas Carolcade will take place on Thursday 4th, Tuesday 9th, Thursday 11th, and Tuesday 16th December, from 5.30pm – 7.30pm. Be sure to check the route and times in Seaside News or view the full map on the Seaside News Facebook page to catch the sleigh as it passes through your area.

Don’t miss the John Street Collection, where you can see the sleigh and reindeer up close on Saturday’s 6th and 13th December (9.30am – 4pm) and Saturday 20th December (9.30am – 2pm).

The Rotary Post is also back, operating from 17th November until 15th December in the CF36 area only. Stamps are 35p each (3 for £1) and available in shops throughout Porthcawl— see Facebook for a full list.

Please support Porthcawl Rotary in raising funds for local and Rotary charities.

We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!   Rtn Robert Lee

MYNYDD CYNFFIG WI

Our November meeting was held on Remembrance Day a very poignant day for everyone. Again, our secretary is keeping us up to date with all WI business by distributing the minutes via email for those members who have an email address, and via a printed copy to the remaining members, which is very much appreciated.

Our members are continuing to make and fill our homemade cotton dental bags, and we will be working with our local ‘flying start’ colleagues, to distribute to families with children under four in disadvantaged areas.

Prior to Remembrance Day members represented our WI at our local British legion poppy table and represented our WI at Mynydd Cynffig cenotaph at the Remembrance Day service when a wreath was laid on behalf of all our members and the organisation.

Our speaker today was Sara Magan from ‘We’d Rather Lather’. Her talk was extremely interesting, she displayed, and we were encouraged to try, her unique family handmade range of soap, skincare and hair care products, all of which are ecofriendly, made, tested and used by her family.

Our next meeting is 9th December at 2pm, when we will be celebrating with a Christmas tea. All new members are welcome.

Katherine Hier

NOTTAGE CHAPEL

Beside the village green in Nottage stands a small chapel that has quietly served its community for more than two centuries. Nottage Unitarian Chapel may not be large, but it has something rarer, a sense of peace, history, and kindness that you feel the moment you step inside.   Generations have crossed its threshold for baptisms, weddings, memorials, and countless Sunday mornings of prayer and song. Though numbers are not as large as they used to be, the warmth of those who remain is undiminished.

Sunday services at 11a.m, offer thoughtful readings, music, and reflection. Afterwards, the kettle goes on, biscuits appear, and conversation flows easily from village news to world affairs, all in the spirit of friendship.

Nottage Chapel is a quiet reminder that faith and community depend not on numbers, but on heart. It’s simple services provide a space for reflection, and for belonging, open to anyone regardless of creed or background.

So, drop by one Sunday morning or come to the Friday coffee morning from 10.30 to 12. The congregation may be small, but their spirit is generous, and the light they keep burning has shown here for more than 230 years.

Dr Mike Sheehan

FEATURES

NEWS FROM PORTHCAWL STROKE CLUB

Once again, we have been fortunate to enjoy events and, on the 15th of October, we were entertained by the Red Kites John, Berwyn and Rob who gave a wonderful performance and when Berwyn plays the Clarinet, it just blows me away amazing!   Then on the 29th of October World Stroke Day, Mrs Pat Richards read out some funny poems, which had us in stitches and, as it was Remembrance Sunday coming up, Pat gave us an insight of her husband Colin’s experience as a Pastor at St Athens. Then Ann read an article from the eyes of a young child through war! Very touching.  Coming up is our Annual Christmas Carol Service Concert on the 2nd of December at the Grove Golf Club in partnership with the Porthcawl Male Voice Choir, expressing our gratitude for their yearly support, words couldn’t thank them enough, they always gave a brilliant performance, with plenty of laughter.  Merry Christmas everyone, for your loyal support and a special thanks to Mrs Susan Ward for the tremendous work she has undertaken for the club and to Keith and Mary Duggan for their commitment and dedication always.

Barbara Matthews

PORTHCAWL LIONS

The coffee morning mentioned in last month’s Seaside News was very successful, thanks to all those who attended and of course Porthcawl Rotary club for their help. Also, the Friday quizzes at the Seagull donated the profits to Porthcawl Lions, as well as being thoroughly enjoyable, the donation has been really provided a much-appreciated boost to club funds, so thank you so The Seagull and all who took part. Club members also helped in the Remembrance Day poppy collection and what a privilege it was to meet all those generous members of the public who donated and hear the stories that some of the older citizens had to share. Porthcawl Lions’ vice-president laid a wreath at All Saints service of Remembrance.

Still to come before Christmas is the Santa’s Grotto. Santa has already how much he is looking forward to being back in his Grotto outside the museum again. He will be there from 11.00 until 4.00 on Saturdays 6th. 13th. and 20th. December, admission £5.00 to include a chat with Santa and a toy. The club is also pleased to say that the Boxing Day Run will take place. All details from Porthcawl Runners. Finally, from all Porthcawl Lions members very warmest wishes for a happy Christmas and a peaceful new year.

JMC

PORTHCAWL U3A

November highlights at Porthcawl u3a include a Study Day celebrating Porthcawl’s 200th anniversary and focusing on the history of the town, with speakers including Ceri Joseph, talking about the development of the town and the people who were instrumental in that process; Clive Jones talking about the growth of the RNLI in Porthcawl; and Anna Rankin telling us about the history of the Grand Pavilion.

There will be a visit to the Royal Mint, including a festive afternoon tea on November 26th and for those who missed the previous visit to the Nantgarw China Works, there will be another trip, just for you, on January 28th.

Music is of interest to many u3a members. The Ukelele Group meets on the first Friday of each month and welcomes anyone who can either play the instrument or would like to learn, as well as those who simply enjoy singing along. The Social Dance Group meets every other Tuesday morning. Plus, many members will be enjoying the Shirley Bassey Tribute Night at the Atlantic Hotel on 29th November.

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

NEWTON PORTHCAWL WI

November meeting was held on November 5th, Guy Fawkes night, might not have had fireworks, but our lovely WI ladies certainly sparkled. We celebrated with a delicious cake and a dazzling fashion show featuring our very own models and didn’t they look amazing. Special thanks to Klass for kindly lending us such a beautiful collection of clothes, they were a real hit.

The talented craft ladies presented their Armistice Day display at All Saints Church; it was stunning and clearly reflected the dedication, care, and creativity that went into each decoration.  The result was something special for our community to enjoy and reflect upon.

Our monthly luncheon club continues the third Wednesday of the month at 1pm at the Globe.

Now we are counting down the days until our Christmas trip to Radyr Garden Centre, Christmas buffet and show performed by WI members & Atlantic Christmas dinner & dance. Bring on more laughter, sparkle and festive cheer.

As the President of the WI, the committee and I would like to take the opportunity to wish all our members a very Merry Christmas.

Pamela Powis

HISTORY

DECEMBER 1963

Boxing Day, 1963, the day the defences in the First Division went on holiday. Two mundane results to start: Leicester City beat the current champions Everton 2 - 0 and Sheffield Wednesday beat Bolton Wanderers 3 - 0. Then the goals really started to flow: Blackpool 1 Chelsea 5; Nottingham Forest 3, Sheffield United 3; Wolves 3 Aston Villa 3; West Bromwich Albion 4 Tottenham Hotspur 4; Burnley 6 Manchester United 1; Liverpool 6 Stoke City 1; West Ham 2 Blackburn Rovers 8. The real turkeys though were Ipswich Town - they lost 10 - 1 at Fulham.

Birmingham City and Arsenal didn’t play until 28 December, but they joined in the fun - an away win, 1 - 4, for Arsenal. Why so many goals over that festive season? Factor one: the weather. Five days of frost led to a thaw followed by heavy rain. This combination produced slippery conditions, difficult for defenders. Factor two: the general philosophy in 1963/64 was to attack - 3.4 goals were scored per game. In comparison, 2.8 goals are scored per game in the modern Premier League.  Roger Hunt scored four goals v Stoke City for eventual champions, Liverpool.

Hannah Howe, author of the Swinging Sixties Mystery Series https://hannah-howe.com

CHRISTMAS MORNING SWIM

Following a meeting of the Porthcawl Chamber of Trade in October 1965 the Porthcawl Christmas Morning Swim was born. Arlon Owen, who loved to swim all year round, and Jack Bridge, who like Arlon was passionate about Porthcawl and its community, decided to join the Porthcawl Lifeguards and Inshore Lifeboat crew for their Christmas morning swim. The

twenty swimmers who met on the slip way at 10.30am were joined by Santa Claus (Jack Bridge), who gave every child there a toy. Arlon then led them all to Sandy Bay where Santa Claus, too, entered the waves watched by spectators on the Eastern Promenade and ITV!

By Christmas 1968 the event was taking on a more carnival atmosphere. Santa Claus now landed on Salt Lake Carpark in a glider flown by Fl/Lt Jim Martin of the Porthcawl Gliding Club. Amidst carol singing Santa was escorted to outside the Beachcomber where he gifted children’s toys before being carried to the sea to be thrown in. Numbers of swimmers involved had grown and following the swim Arlon donned his infamous ‘Coco the Clown’ outfit and began collecting for charity. Over 60 years £175,000 has been collected for local charities. Thanks to everyone, throughout the years, who made this possible.

Ceri Joseph

2024

2024 is a particularly significant year that shows how Porthcawl has devolved over 200 years. The arrival of ‘Lizzie’ in February was the natural world hitting concrete. In 1825 there was no concrete and Lizzie would have landed on terrain covered in sand dunes.

The Metrolink Bus Station reminds us of how transport links on land have changed. The 19th century witnessed the coming of tramway and the railway; the 20th century saw in the motor car, charabanc and buses. Interestingly, the Metrolink is opposite to where the Railway Station once stood. (pic)

The Porthcawl Operatic Society celebrated their 100th Anniversary. Their first shows were held at Cosy Corner where soon after George Beynon arrived and introduced CinemaScope which he extended through the town with the Coliseum and Casino. Other entertainments developed. The Fairground, Grand Pavilion built in 1932; and eventually a variety of theatrical and musical groups including the Porthcawl Community Orchestra.

Porthcawl Cricket Club celebrated its 140th anniversary. It was the second sports team established in Porthcawl following the Porthcawl Rugby. Yet what is wonderful is that both clubs now field women’s’ teams. The 2020’s have seen the death of Elizabeth II and the coronation of Charles III. Yet it was George IV that signed Porthcawl into existence on 10th June 1825.

Ceri Joseph

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.

Word Search

Wishing all readers, contributors and advertisers a very Merry Christmas from the Seaside News! Book your advertising, or send us our article now – for the January 2026 issue. The deadline date for the January 2026 issue is the 10th December 2025. Email us now for advertising

HEALTH

COST OF CANCER - WHAT WE DO

WARM HOMES

With Christmas around the corner please do take a moment to think of those you are going through treatment for cancer. If you are unsure of what we do as a charity here, we help families of those who are going through treatment for cancer to pay the everyday household bills. The bills that still come in month after month, bills like gas, electricity, water, council tax, etc. We can also help to reimburse travel costs too. So, if you know of anyone that is in this exact position, please do tell them about us.

This year will be our biggest year for helping families we’ve ever had. What we need is donations and for people to put events on. If you are planning an event, get in touch and we could look at attending the event with you. Anyway, thanks in advance to anyone who likes, follows and share the page and for those who have already done it you’re awesome.

Nicky, Emma & Cath Trustees

SSSHHHHHH!

Once upon a time in a land not so far away it was quiet. You may remember some or all of it. As you read this what can you hear? TV, Radio. Alexa, YouTube, Games Consoles, Phones, Tablets., People shouting to be heard over the layer of noise. Sound that is inescapable unless you put some noise cancelling headphones on or plug in to your own favourite audio.

Do you like this soundtrack? Some maybe and some intrusive.  Where can you go to escape? Outside, somewhere quiet in nature, the coast or a special place where you know you will not be disturbed. Buildings that were once places to reflect like churches are now locked to the public, though some have drop-in times when you can sit and reflect. Libraries were once quiet places also.  Life can be full of ups and downs and so much information is available to help you through these times, but how do you process it if you never pause and take a breath  So, if it is not possible to be quiet at home, why not retreat physically and go outside or lie down, put on your headphones and drift away to your own sweet spot.  Be gentle on yourself.

Margaret Brown

With temperatures dropping and winter setting in, our Warm Homes project can help you stay comfortable, safe, and supported through the colder months. As part of this programme, you can receive a free home energy check, carried out by our trained handy person, who will visit your home to discuss your heating and energy needs. They’ll take the time to understand your situation and install simple but effective items—such as energy-efficient light bulbs and reflective radiator panels—at no cost to you. These small changes can make your home warmer, reduce heat loss, and help lower your energy bills.

But there’s even more support available. The project also includes Benefit Entitlement Checks to ensure you’re receiving all the income and support you’re eligible for, as well as friendly, practical advice on staying warm, well, and safe throughout the winter.

It’s an easy and completely free way to reduce the stress of cold weather and bring extra comfort and peace of mind into your home.

To find out more, email enquiries@agecymruwestglamorgan. org.uk or call 01792 648866.

For more information about our services, and to read our Beyond 50 newsletter for quarterly updates and resources, please visit our website: www.agecymruwestglamorgan.org.uk

Age Cymru West Glamorgan

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

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

If you would like more information please contact:

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

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

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

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

FINANCE

HOW ARE YOU WRAPPING YOUR CASH THIS CHRISTMAS?

Christmas is all about giving, wrapping, and a little bit of sparkle – but while you’re busy making everything look festive, it might be time to re-wrap your cash too. Not in shiny paper and bows, but in a financial ‘wrapper’ that helps protect it, make it work harder, and maybe even pass a little wealth down the line.

Leaving money sitting in the bank can feel comfortable, but it’s a bit like hiding a gift at the back of the cupboard – safe but not doing much. With inflation quietly nibbling away at its value and interest rates rarely keeping up, many people are looking for smarter ways to make their money go further.  So, what’s finding its way onto the nice list this year? Investment bonds.

Think of a bond as a flexible, tax-friendly box for your money – one that allows it to grow tax-efficiently while giving you the option to take out money each year without an immediate tax bill! The structure gives the freedom that’s made bonds increasingly popular with those looking to re-wrap existing cash in a more efficient way.

Even better, bonds can be placed in trust, helping families pass wealth between generations more smoothly.

For years, pensions were the classic choice – the big, reliable box under the tree. But lately, they’ve lost a bit of their shine. Changing rules and tighter restrictions have made them less flexible, and there’s growing concern about how future governments might tinker with them further.

ISAs remain a simple, tax-free option – great for straightforward saving and investing –but their annual limits can leave larger sums out in the cold. Premium Bonds still bring a bit of nostalgia, but relying on a lucky win isn’t much of a financial plan.

So, as you’re wrapping your gifts this Christmas, take a moment to think about how your money is wrapped too. A little festive re-wrapping could make sure your finances look just as bright as your tree – and that’s a gift worth giving.

At Abacus Assurance, we help clients re-wrap their cash in ways that protect, grow, and pass on wealth efficiently. This Christmas, make your money part of the celebration.  Have a festive free hour of Financial Advice on us this Christmas!

Call 01656 772222 / 07599987662 pippa@abacusassurance.com

PIPPA VAUGHAN-AVERY - DipFA

SECURING YOUR LEGACY WITH A LIFETIME TRUST

Navigating the uncertainties of life can be challenging both for you and your loved ones, but securing the future of your loved ones need not be. With a Lifetime Trust you can enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that your assets have been safeguarded and will benefit your chosen loved ones exactly as you intend.

Many still believe that Lifetime Trusts are only for the wealthy, but this is no longer the case with ordinary folk now owning their homes and looking to protect their assets. Westminster Law has made Lifetime Trusts an affordable and practical solution and has made it possible for anyone to secure their family’s future with the same protection and foresight that the wealthy have enjoyed for centuries.

Why choose a Lifetime Trust?

• Avoid the cost and delays of probate: Grant immediate access on your death to some or all of your assets held in trust without the need for probate.

• Control and protection: Claim full control over your assets and shield your family’s inheritance from divorce, creditors, and other predatory challenges.

• Ensure future care of your beneficiaries: Guarantee that the trust capital can assist your loved ones for generations; for example, for education, health care, and first homes.

• Retain more of your wealth: Strategically reduce or even eliminate potential inheritance tax liabilities for yourself and future generations.

Many believe setting up a trust means losing control; however, the reality is quite the opposite. With the right planning, a Lifetime Trust allows you to maintain full control over your assets both during your lifetime and after death. A Lifetime Trust ensures that your wishes regarding your assets are meticulously realised with precision and care.

By setting up a Lifetime Trust you can preserve your legacy, ensuring your intentions are fulfilled not just for the present, but also for future generations.

Westminster Law assesses the circumstances of couples and individuals and arranges the Trust that will provide the best protection for them, their loved ones and their assets.

Deadline date for the January 2026 issue is: WEDNESDAY 10TH DECEMBER

JOSEPH COLEMAN Westminster Law

CHRISTMAS CONTACT ARRANGEMENTS FOR CHILDREN

Christmas is an exciting time for everyone, but the magic of the festive period may be spoiled if separated parents cannot agree on how the children will divide their time between each home over the holidays.

If you sense that problems may arise, you can speak to a solicitor, attend mediation, or if all else fails, make an application to the Court for an order to be made setting out when the children see each parent. However, it is important to plan ahead and not leave things until the last minute, as you may find that the court will not have time to make an order in time for Christmas.

The Court will normally take the view that it is in the children’s best interests to see both of their parents over the festive period and will strive to make an order which is fair to both parents, so it is highly unlikely the children will remain with one parent for the whole Christmas period.

It is common for an order to be made alternating arrangements each year. This could mean splitting Christmas Day in half and alternating who has the children for Christmas lunch. Or it could be that the children spend Christmas Day with one parent and Boxing Day with the other, and the following year the arrangements are swapped.

Ideally, Christmas arrangements should be agreed upon early after separation. This makes planning much easier and everyone involved knows where they stand. Christmas is an extremely busy time, so it is beneficial to all, especially the children, to have clear arrangements in place earlier on in the year.

If you feel that this issue is likely to affect you, please contact one of our experts in our family team who will be happy to advise you further.

GARDEN & NATURE

PORTHCAWL FLOWER ARRANGING SOCIETY

Following a successful Autumn term, when we welcomed new members and enjoyed three practice sessions including most recently our ‘Copper Glow’ interpretation, we are now focusing on our Christmas celebrations. We are looking forward to a traditional Christmas lunch on 10th December. Are you looking for a new challenge in 2026? Why not come along to a FREE TASTER SESSION on Wednesday January 28th when we will be having a practice session taking our inspiration from our local surroundings. Our theme is ‘Swept from the sea’. Awel y Mor Centre, Porthcawl 1.30pm start. Contact Claire on 07814519985 for more information.

CEFN CRIBWR GARDENING CLUB

Don’t think that the garden loses its ecstasy in winter, it’s quiet but the roots are down there riotous! (Rumi) Every gardener knows that under the cloak of winter lies a miracle.

So, how’s your garden looking? Mine is wet, the grass too long, leaves are everywhere, but that’s okay. It suits the wildlife! (that’s my story and I’m sticking to it!)

Rhubarb is a very easy crop to grow, treat yourself to a crown and pop it into a container, leave some of the top above the earth to prevent rot and cover and it with a bucket, this encourages the Rhubarb to grow and you’ll have a few fresh tender stems for a new year crumble, A fab way to start the year.

Overgrown shrubs can be cut back this month and climbing roses benefit from a winter prune. Pruning is important in winter months watering is not!

Did you know Reindeers have specialized noses that warm the cold air before it gets to their lungs so under thermal camera Rudolf really does have a red nose!

Wishing you a very happy Christmas, the next time we meet it will be 2026 (how did that happen?).

Chris Early

LALESTON GARDENING CLUB

December a quiet month in the garden with the weather now being in charge and most people’s attention leaning toward the festive season.     If you have rhubarb under cover, filling the pot with dry straw will help insulate from cold weather.   Weather permitting you can prune fruit trees and cut back dead stems on large flowering clematis.  The seed catalogues will be arriving now, so time to plan your planting for next year and order your seeds.

Laleston Garden Club’s Christmas Fayre was a great success, thank you to all who supported us we are very grateful.  We will be celebrating with members booked on our Annual Christmas Dinner and all members will be welcome at our Mince Pie and coffee morning on the 13th of December 10am - 12noon. May we wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and fingers crossed for a great Gardening New Year.

Susan Ford

ARTS

PORTHCAWL MALE CHOIR

Our much-anticipated appearance singing at the Principality stadium exceeded all our expectations. From start to finish the day was wonderous. Together with three other choirs and the Tredegar Brass Band, we rehearsed the songs under the main stand. Dr Haydn James, the world-famous musical director and conductor on the day, succeeded in joining the choirs and band into a single unit with great enthusiasm and humour. The sound was incredible. The tension of waiting in the tunnel prior to entering the stadium was intense, this followed by the spine tingling feeling of walking around the pitch to the cheers of the huge crowd. We sang the Welsh classics of Gwahoddiad, Sosban Fach, Calon Lan, Cwm Rhondda and Yma O Hyd, followed by a haunting rendition of Keep the Home Fires Burning and the Argentinian National Anthem. However, nothing can prepare you for the raw emotion of singing Mae Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau in front of 50,000 supporters who literally raised to roof. The disappointment of the result did little to dampen the spirits of one of the best days of the choir’s history.  Breaking News. Our recording will be ready before Christmas and we’ll be advertising it a soon as it’s available, on our Facebook page.  contact@pothcawlmalechoir.co.uk or Ian Williams 07927 219544

TABERNACLE MUSIC SOCIETY

Cor Tabernacl has had a busy few weeks performing for charitable purposes. In September the choir sang at Nolton Parish Church in aid of Y Bwythyn and Parish Funds. The evening was enhanced by the inspiring playing of Sage Taylor, a local young violinist, who is just beginning his musical career at the Royal College of Music in Cardiff. At the beginning of October, the choir joined forces with the Bridgend Male Voice Choir to a small but appreciative audience. As is our policy we love to invite young musicians to perform with us and our soprano soloist for this event was Darcy Paris George, again a student at the R.C.M.C.

Our Christmas concert this year will take place in Tabernacle, Derwen Road on Tuesday, December 9th at 7pm. For the 3rd year in succession Pencoed Primary School Choir will light up our evening and prepare us all for another joyous Christmas season. Along with a few other carol singing events we plan to donate some of our profits to Velindre Cancer Care. We are looking for new members so please come along to our Tuesday evening rehearsal to enjoy quality singing and friendship. Contact details are - Chairman - Dr. Richard Logan 01656 663713. Secretary - Mrs Anne Kendall 01656 649413

BRIDGEND COLLEGE MUSIC DEPARTMENT

It has been an incredibly busy and rewarding year in the Music Department, filled with memorable experiences and outstanding opportunities for our learners. One of the major highlights was our international trip to Tennessee, where students spent three weeks exploring the iconic music cities of Nashville and Memphis. During the visit, they toured world-renowned recording studios, took part in inspiring masterclasses, and immersed themselves in the rich musical culture that defines the region.

Back on campus, the first term has also been full of activity. We welcomed several visiting professionals who delivered engaging masterclasses, offering learners valuable industry insight. We also enjoyed our annual residential trip to the legendary Rockfield Studio, giving students the chance to record a range of emerging artists in a truly historic setting.

As we move into December, excitement is building for our Christmas Show, featuring performances from our Level 2 and both Level 3 classes. The event includes festive classics as well as a nostalgic tribute to Top of the Pops for those who remember the iconic programme. The show will take place at Black Cat, Bridgend’s premier venue for new and upcoming talent.

Anyone interested in attending our HE masterclass sessions is welcome to get in touch at arichards@bridgend.ac.uk. We also host seminars in our state-of-the-art recording studio.

Adam Richards

STAG’S WORLD OF ROCK

I must say well done to Porthcawl Choir after their performance at the Millennium Stadium before the Wales v Argentina game. They performed better than the Welsh team! I know a lot of the choir and was asked to join them by one of their members, who said I’d bring the average age down by 20 years. Also, congratulations to Kenfig Hill’s singer Jeff Phillips, who won Tribute Artist of the Year Award as Neil Diamond. Catch Jeff live!

Local band Interstella Boy, which features songwriter Dil Williams, plays London’s Dublin Castle pub in Camden on Sunday 7th December, and there is a coach leaving Porthcawl, if you fancy a trip to the famous market, too. Order a ticket on the band’s Facebook page.

Well, I’m writing this on 12th November to meet the magazine’s deadline and yes, the Christmas tree is up. Remember to support local music venues and keep your news coming, so that I can give you a plug. I’ll be back in January. Have a lovely Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Stag Marks 07549 728356

Photo: Award winner Jeff Phillips

THE MID GLAMORGAN SAVOYARDS

Fairies waving wands, bumbling Peers in scarlet costumes, humour, satire, splendid singing and an excellent orchestra - yes, it was an afternoon to remember as the Savoyards put on a fully staged “Iolanthe” in All Saints Church, Porthcawl.

First produced in 1882, the themes remain scarily relevant today. The Peers, although looking and sounding magnificent, could not disguise their prejudices and limited intellect.

“I’m very keen on brains…wish I had some myself!”

Tying themselves up in verbal knots, they were no match for the regal Fairy Queen. Some earthy humour involving Strephon’s problems - being half fairy, half human - kept the audience laughing. Phyllis, the heroine, sang with sweet emotion.

The band of fairies, in beautiful costumes and make up, managed wands, dancing and singing together on stage.  The compact setting meant for tightly choreographed movements, no stepping on toes!  In the choir stalls, the chorus gave appropriately hearty support.

Under the baton of Musical Director, Roger Hudd BEM, the orchestra’s playing complemented the whole production perfectly.  £1400 + was raised for the charity chosen this year, Y Bont, Bridgend, a specialist child and family centre.

Thank you to all who gave freely of their time and skills.   Dominique Spearey

SOUNDS FAMILIAR

Sounds Familiar choir were privileged to be able to perform at the Remembrance Service at All Saints’ Church, Porthcawl. They sang ‘Y Tangnefeddwyr’ (The Peacemakers), Eric Jones’ setting of a Waldo Williams poem, inspired by the bombing of Swansea during World War II.

Musical Director, Nick Wayland Evans, and accompanist, Stewart Roberts are now preparing the choir for their Christmas concert at Arlington Road Presbyterian Church, Porthcawl on Friday 12th December (7.15pm) The music will range from traditional and less familiar carols, as well as familiar songs from musical theatre so often associated with Christmas time. The popular Maesteg soprano, Rhian Hughes, is the guest soloist  Likely to be another sell out concert, you can get tickets from any member of the choir or by contacting Secretary, Cathryn Hodges 07968178589.

KENFIG HILL MALE VOICE CHOIR

On October 18th, the KHDMVC held its Autumn concert at the Cornelly Community Centre. The event featured a collaboration with the Maesteg Gleemen once again. Both choirs performed numbers from their individual repertoires and teamed up for several joint pieces. An unexpected highlight was an impromptu poem about growing up in Maesteg during the 1950s, written and read by our very own chorister, Roger Thomas.

On November 1st, we performed at Kenfig Hill RFC for their annual Derby game against Tondu RFC. This event was in support Prostate Cymru, an organization dedicated to raising awareness of prostate cancer, particularly among men aged 45 and older.

Both events were led by our Musical Director and First Lady of our choir Mrs Rhian Thomas. Rhian was accompanied by, as always, the amazing Miss Rachel Starritt on piano.

December will be a busy month for us. Starting with Nursing Home Christmas concerts, combined schools Christmas Concert and singing at the Emergency Services Carol Concert once again at Llandaff Cathedral.  Rehearsals take place every Monday and Thursday at the Greenacres Motel in Cornelly. For more information, please contact choir secretary Tony Ulberini at 07866 742542

Paul Butterworth, Vice Chairman

Deadline date for the January 2026 issue is: WEDNESDAY 10TH DECEMBER

ARTS

A FILM MAKER’S POINT OF VIEW

I hope the reader will excuse this slight departure from a film topic, although there is a link. My first whodunit novel, ‘The Tidal Road Mystery’, published in 2016, went for its third print-run in October this year, and the cover was re-designed and now features a striking new image painted by Porthcawl artist, Sarah George, who also did the artwork for ‘The Seagull Bay Mystery’, which is the second book in the Erwin Graham murder mystery series, published last May.

Many years ago, I wrote an episode for a TV show called ‘Return of the Saint’, although it was not used because I had optimistically anticipated a further series which did not go ahead, but it brought me into contact with Robert S. Baker, the producer, and I learned the lesson that strong imagery is very important, a principle that has guided me in my documentary film work over many years. The cameraman’s eye very easily becomes the novelist’s eye when it comes to writing descriptions of people and places, so that the reader fully feels part of the scene.

Both novels are on sale locally, send me a text if you want to know where.

Anthony Hontoir

Downwood Books & Films  Tel: 07510 934299

Picture: ‘The Tidal Road Mystery’ (Cover artwork by Sarah George)

LALESTON MOT CENTRE

PYLE & PORTHCAWL CAMERA CLUB

We had a great early success at the Neath & District inter-club excellent images. Also, well done to Steve Jones for his success

Whatever your ability and choice of camera or phone, you will

WHAT’S ON

BRIDGEND RAMBLERS

Fancy walking in the fresh air? Bridgend Ramblers arranges several walks each week, ranging from 3 to 12 miles. Try us out for free. Details at www.bridgendramblers.org

PORTHCAWL U3A

Provides a huge range of daytime activities for people no longer in full-time employment. It is a great way to meet people and engage in any of the over 40 fun, physical, educational, creative or thoughtprovoking activities. All of which are available free to members.

Annual membership is £45. Website: porthcawlu3a.org.uk; phone: 07824 133777; email: info@porthcawlu3a.org.uk

PORTHCAWL LADIES BOWLS CLUB

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

PRINCE OF WALES BOWLING CLUB

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

MONDAY

A TASTE OF YOGA, KENFIG 10.30-12pm & 6.30-8pm @ KStella Maris Catholic Church, New Road Porthcawl CF36 5BN. Cost: Four Sessions £36. To book contact Angela 07980 936198 or Email: angelarock11@hotmail.com

CANTORION COETY MIXED VOICE CHOIR

New members can join us at rehearsals / practice from 7.309.00pm at Gilead Chapel, Coity, CF35 6AU. An ability to speak Welsh is not essential. Contact Sue Prosser 07967 211718. Email: prosser36@hotmail.co.uk www.cantorioncoety.cymru

CREATIVE COMPANIONS

We are a very welcoming and supportive group of artists and crafters of all abilities working on our own projects whilst enjoying each others company. Meet every fortnight 10.30am-12.30pm at Porthcawl Town AFC clubhouse, Locks Lane.

Further information please contact Deb McCann 07886 377040.

FIT FOR LIFE LADIES & GENTS

With Hannah Bowen. Exercise Specialist, 20yrs experience, @ Awely-Mor Community Centre Porthcawl. Zumba Gold 12.45-1.45pm.

Functional Mobility & Flexibility 2.003.00pm. Also Thursday’s Functional 5 Circuit 9.30-10.30am. Call: 07886 487853. Facebook: Porthcawl Fitness Classes.

KENFIG HILL & DISTRICT MALE VOICE CHOIR

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

ROTARY PORTHCAWL

Meet @ 12.45pm, The High Tide, Mackworth Road, Porthcawl, CF36 5BT. New members always welcomed. For further information please contact John Hodges on Telephone: 01656 867610 Mobile: 07957 289927. Email: john. hodges57@gmail.com Website: https://www.rotary-ribi.org/clubs/ homepage.php?ClubID=953

TUESDAY

PORTHCAWL COMMUNITY CHORUS

If you want an enjoyable time, singing both in unison and in harmony, then why not come along and join our friendly mixed choir as we explore a varied repertoire of music, finishing up with a cuppa and a chat? No auditions and no necessity to read music: just a love of singing essential. We meet at Gilgal Church Hall, Park Avenue, on Tuesdays: 1.30 -2.45.

Please contact Maggie Jemmett on 07932 793355 or email Maggie. jemmett@live.co.uk

PORTHCAWL LIONS

Meet at Hi-tide 1st and 3rd Tuesday’s of the month, 7-9pm. See website: www.porthcawllions.org.uk Or call: 01656 784939.

PORTHCAWL MALE CHOIR

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

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

RISING STARS MUSIC & DRAMA GROUP

This fun programme for 8-11 year olds is lively and stimulating. The children learn skills and gain confidence and self-esteem almost incidentally as they involve themselves in a wide range of music and drama activities, with the option to take part in musicals and choir performances. The sessions are at Gilgal Church Hall, Park Avenue on Tuesdays: arrival from 4.15 for a 4.30 – 5.30 session. Please contact Maggie Jemmett on 07932 793355 or email Maggie.jemmett@live.co.uk

SOUNDS FAMILIAR

Simply easy to join us! We sing a huge variety of music in English and Welsh! We are seeking men to fill our spaces in our BASS and TENOR sections. 7pm to 9pm,upstairs in The United Services Club, on Station Hill in Porthcawl. Contact choir secretary Cathryn Hodges, mobile: 07968 178589.

MA’S YOGA @ KENFIG NATURE RESERVE. Mixed ability class:

9.30am till 11am - £40 for 4 weeks, or £12 drop in. If paying for a block you will receive a recording if you miss a week. Evening class @ Kenfig every Thursday. To book contact: Michele – 07793 544956 or email michele@masyoga.co.uk www.masyoga.co.uk

WEDNESDAY

COR BRO OGWR, BRIDGEND

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

NEWTON WI

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

PORTHCAWL ART SOCIETY

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

PORTHCAWL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY RUN BY GARDENERS FOR GARDENERS

The garden shop in Heol-y-Goedwig is open every Wednesday and Saturday from 9.00am to Midday, and has readily available GARLIC, Winter Onion Sets and Broad Bean seeds for planting NOW. However, DON’T WAIT any longer to get your supply, as the Shop will be CLOSING after Saturday 15th November until it RE-OPENS on Saturday 10th January 2026, when varieties of Seed potatoes, onion sets and shallots should be available. Usual other garden needs available. All welcome to visit, advice freely given.

PORTHCAWL STROKE CLUB

The Club which meets at the Masonic Home, Porthcawl 2-4pm, provides social support and a range of activities for stroke survives and their families. New members always welcome, to find out more contact the Club Chairman Mr Keith Duggan and Mrs Mary Duggan on 01656 773376 or 07484 250988, or e-mail Club Secretary, Sue Ward, suizward66@outlook.com. If you are interested in volunteering with this community club, please do get in touch..

SLIMMING WORLD, PORTHCAWL

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

THURSDAY

GRACE COMMUNITY CHOIR

Join a fun, friendly choir for all ages and voices – no auditions, no experience needed. Grace Central, Lias Road, Porthcawl (opposite CoOp) 7:30–9:00 Contact: Hyelim Morris – 07949 684401

PYLE & PORTHCAWL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

Meetings at The Church Hall, Our Lady Star of the Sea, 201 New Road, Porthcawl, CF36 5BN. 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-andporthcawl-photographic-society. co.uk

SKER WI

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

SLIMMING WORLD, KENFIG HILL

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

WHAT’S ON

FRIDAY

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

SATURDAY

LALESTON GARDENING CLUB

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

CONTACT

US ABOUT PLACING YOUR CLUB

PORTHCAWL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY RUN BY GARDENERS FOR GARDENERS

The garden shop in Heol-y-Goedwig is open every Wednesday and Saturday from 9.00am to Midday, and has readily available GARLIC, Winter Onion Sets and Broad Bean seeds for planting NOW. However, DON’T WAIT any longer to get your supply, as the Shop will be CLOSING after Saturday 15th November until it RE-OPENS on Saturday 10th January 2026, when varieties of Seed potatoes, onion sets and shallots should be available. Usual other garden needs available. All welcome to visit, advice freely given.

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.

seasidenews.co.uk

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

Saturday, 13th December CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS WITH CÔR BRO OGWR

4.30 pm at the Tabernacl Church, Derwen Rd, Bridgend. Côr Bro Ogwr’s annual Christmas concert will take place on Saturday, 13th December, at Tabernacle Church, Bridgend, at the new time of 4.30pm. The choir will be joined once again this year by pupils from Oldcastle Primary School, Bridgend, led by Charlotte Ellet, former member of WNO, who will also be our soloist for the evening. The choir will perform Three More Jazz Carols, by William Todd, and a selection of seasonal songs, in both Welsh and English, by William Mathias, Gareth Glyn, Eric Whitacre, Morton Lauridsen and Judith Weir. As usual, the audience will have the opportunity to join us for some traditional carols. The evening will be accompanied by our pianist Laura Deenik and conducted by the choir’s director, Ben Pinnow. We hope you will join us for what promises to be a joyous early evening Christmas concert.

Tickets are £12.00 from choristers, on the door, or call 01656 653326

ALL SAINTS WARM HUB

Every Monday from 10th November through to the end of March from 1pm to 4.30pm in All Saints’ Community Hall, behind the church in Victoria Avenue CF36 3HD. Friendly company, hot drinks, light snacks, cakes, board games. Parking available. Croeso I bawb - All Welcome!

Porthcawl Male Choir Cor Meibion Porthcawl

Present: An Evening of Festive and Choral Music

All Saints Church, Porthcawl

Saturday, 6th December 2025 at 7:00 pm

Tickets £10.00 each (pay on the door)

Children free

Refreshments available

Audience participation compulsory!

SEA & SPORT

PORTHCAWL RNLI TO FEATURE ON TV BEFORE CHRISTMAS

Porthcawl RNLI is thrilled to share the news that our volunteer crew will feature on your TV screens shortly before Christmas this year on BBC One.

Porthcawl’s RNLI were delighted to be asked to take part in filming for Ruth and Steve: From Porthcawl with Love.  In the programme viewers will join Ruth Jones and her friend and writer Steve Spiers for a heartfelt journey through Ruth’s hometown of Porthcawl. They will revisit the places that shaped Ruth and share memories of family, friendship and growing up by the sea.

During filming for the programme Ruth and Steve joined Porthcawl RNLI volunteers on a joint training exercise alongside our colleagues from Barry Dock RNLI with the pair taking part onboard Barry Dock’s Shannon class lifeboat.   Porthcawl RNLI has a special connection with Ruth and her family. Ruth’s sister Maria, who will feature in the TV programme, volunteers as the station’s lifeboat medical advisor and Maria’s husband Etienne volunteered as a crew member for 19 years. Ruth’s niece Anousha volunteered as crew before going to university and Ruth’s brother Julian is lead organiser of the RNLI Samtampa Memorial Run which raises funds for the RNLI each year.

In 2016, Ruth organised a special Porthcawl RNLI fundraising event – which she hosted in character as the iconic Nessa Jenkins. Nessa and Friends Push the Boat Out for the RNLI was held at the Grand Pavilion in Porthcawl, raising over £18,000.

Porthcawl RNLI lifeboat operations manager Andrew Walmsley said:

“We are most grateful to Ruth for her continued support and asking us to take part in the filming. We are really looking forward to seeing the programme in the year the town of Porthcawl celebrates its 200th birthday and we celebrate 60 years since a RNLI inshore lifeboat was first stationed at Porthcawl.”

Also happening this month: Porthcawl RNLI Carol Service on Wednesday 10th December at 7pm. All are welcome at All Saint’s Church, Porthcawl.

Chris Page

Image credit: RNLI

PORTHCAWL SURF REPORT

Plenty of swell for most of October and early November with a frequently changing array of winds and huge tides playing into the hands of the fortunate local surfers who don’t have to rely on the plethora of webcams and forecasting sites and can take advantage of those magic hours when the wind slightly veers or drops off completely for no predictable reason. Most of the surfs between these mystical moments have been a bit of a grind at the local beaches and points with lots of unfavourable southerly winds meaning frequent travel up and down the coast required to find those clean faces and hollow sections we all crave. The rumours of a new webcam overlooking our beloved point have not gone down well with the local crew and let’s hope that nothing comes of it and the possible technical issues it may have rendered it a worthless investment for whomever sold their soul and applied for it.

On a more positive note, our WCSC groms absolutely lit up the remaining two contests of the Welsh grom series comp at Whitesands and Langland with Tom O Leary, Coby Williams Luca Owen and Summer Moore all topping their divisions or finishing in a closely fought runner up slot. We’ll get the full results out there shortly as there are a lot of other up and coming shredders who deserve a mention for their efforts also. There seems to be a real resurgence in grom numbers now with the volunteer run WCSC grom club being central to the growth and it would be remiss of me not to thank Sam Moore on behalf of everyone involved as he is finally handing over the reins after 17 years of coaching and nurturing the club groms at every level. Sam and his better half Soph’s contribution has been hugely impactful, patiently helping complete beginners through to high level technical analysis of national champions and all driven by a love of the sport and what it can bring to a young person’s life.

Porthcawl finally has a match for the great Hawaiian waterman Kai Lenny (minus the six pack, plus the Newport accent) in Mark Goulding aka Dai Lenny. Mark has every variation of wave riding craft ever invented and can often be seen out at low tide Coney gliding across unbroken swells and warp speed with one highlight recently being multiple high speed faceplants courtesy of some motorized surfboard contraption whilst getting amongst it at sizable mid tide point. The noise of impact could almost be heard from 300m away and caused an eruption of hoots and cheers from the assembled peanut gallery hanging out at the awesome Coney surf café aka George Scholfield’s office.

I’m guessing there must have been a long flat spell around 9 months ago as we’ve recently had 2 of our top local surfers and all-around good guys Ezra Hames and Richard Vaughn both becoming fathers. Ez to a yet to be named baby boy and Rich to a girl named Tesni so huge congratulations to both and respective families.

With the water temps slowly declining  by the time this report comes out everyone will soon be knocking the frost off those wetsuits accidentally left on the line overnight , cursing and  vowing yet again to emigrate somewhere  warm and cheap but then it’ll all be forgotten once the ice cream headache pain of those first few duck dives subsides ,the sets start rolling and the adrenaline starts flowing. See you out the back (I’ll be easy to spot within the colony in an all-black hooded wetsuit).

Gary Lewis

7 Su C 00341.56 06539.62 12501.48 191010.19

22 Mo 01171.40 07339.84 13261.44

PORTHCAWL

7 Tu C 00440.96 070210.33 13010.97 192110.77

22 We 01151.68 07329.78 13261.72 19479.79

8 Mo 01121.09 073110.07 13281.08 195010.56

9 Tu 01510.79 081010.34 14060.87 202810.72

Tu 01471.39 08049.87 13561.45 201810.01

VIP VISITORS TO THE STATION

Timem

16 Th 03087.67 09233.48 15428.26 22092.94

8 We 01240.72 074210.59 13420.79 200310.88

9 Th 02040.72 082210.61 14220.86 204410.71

November saw us welcome some VIP guests to our lookout tower. Sarah Murphy, MS for Bridgend and Porthcawl shared this on Facebook:  “This afternoon, I had the pleasure of meeting Laurence, John and Rodger on a visit to the National Coastwatch Institution - Porthcawl.

10 We 02300.71 084810.39 14450.87 210710.64

17 Fr 04218.21 10272.93 16448.83 23002.42

We 02151.49 08339.80 14241.58 20469.83 25 Th 02421.70 09019.62 14521.82 21139.56

10 Fr 02440.98 090310.38 15031.17 212710.27

23 Th 01431.76 08029.75 13551.82 20169.66 24 Fr 02111.92 08319.62 14242.01 20449.44

The incredible team of volunteers monitor our coastline across the Porthcawl and Vale of Glamorgan area, 365 days a year during daylight hours. Their early intervention in spotting someone in danger and alerting the Coastguard, makes a huge difference in keeping us safe.”

11 Th 03090.88 092510.22 15251.11 214710.31

12 Fr 03461.28 10049.82 16041.58 22279.74

26 Fr 03092.00 09289.34 15202.16 21419.18

Timem

7 Fr 00421.00 070110.55 13051.06 192710.48 8 Sa 01261.25 074610.35 13511.35 201310.05 9 Su 02121.68 08339.94 14401.82 21029.45

22 Sa 00482.16

Timem

16 Tu 03348.26 09403.06 15578.45 22062.85 17 We 04238.59 10262.81 16448.67 22472.64

13 Sa 04271.89 10459.25 16472.21 23138.99

18 Sa 05138.79 11142.41 17309.32 23402.03 19 Su 05539.25 11522.04 18109.64 20 Mo 00151.80 06299.55 12251.82 18459.79

27 Sa 03342.39 09558.97 15492.60 22108.72

Local MP Chris Elmore shared this on his Facebook page: “Fantastic to catch up with the brilliant team behind the National Coastwatch Institution, Porthcawl on Friday to learn more about their vital role in providing a visual & listening watch to help keep people safe both at sea and along our shorelines.

28 Su 04012.86 10258.51 16223.10 22418.18

The Porthcawl Station, housed in the old Pilot lookout tower next to the Lifeboat Station, opened back in May 2015 and is now celebrating its 10th year of operation.

6

14 Su D 05122.60 11348.57 17432.92

15 Mo 00108.18 06133.31 12417.93 19083.50

29 Mo B 04353.37 11027.99 17053.62 23237.60

Tu A 00451.69 07029.72 12561.72 19179.84 22 We 01151.68 07329.78 13261.72 19479.79

Tu 05223.88 11567.48 18134.06

11 Sa 03251.47 09449.93 15471.71 22119.60 12 Su 04082.13 10299.30 16362.39 22598.79 13 Mo D 04582.86 11238.60 17383.09 14 Tu 00028.02 06053.51 12358.02 19143.53 15 We 01267.54 07503.78 14117.87 20563.42

They currently have 47 qualified watchkeepers and volunteers who keep the station open 365 days of the year. Since 2015, the station has assisted with 637 incidents involving everything from Paddle Boarders to light aircraft ditching in the sea. A massive thanks to Station Manager Laurence for the tour.

If you’d like to learn more or even have a go at volunteering, you can find out more here: https://www.nci.org.uk/contact-us/

Th 01431.76 08029.75 13551.82 20169.66

CHRISTMAS SWIM

07063.90 13267.81 19553.41

09028.68 15013.07 21188.26

In 1965, when Arlon Owens, Jack Bridge, Vic Davies and the Lifeguard Club took their first publicised Christmas Morning Swim at the slipway and at Sandy Bay, they probably couldn’t have imagined the spectacle of thousands on the beach and over 1000 actually in the water 60 years later. 60 years since the swim took place in the 60s means our fancy dress theme this year is the ‘swinging’ 60s.

3 We 04169.44 10261.90 16439.83 22511.62

4 Th C 05089.89 11161.54 173610.11 23391.41 5 Fr 055910.19 12061.32 182710.22

10 Mo 02582.24 09229.40 15332.38 21548.78 11 Tu 03512.83 10188.83 16372.92 22548.17 12 We D 04583.32 11238.37 17583.26

18 Th 05068.90 11062.59 17258.87 23252.47

19 Fr 05459.15 11442.40 18049.03

6 Sa 00281.35 064910.32 12561.27 191810.15

7 Su 01151.44 073810.27 13451.40 20079.90 8 Mo 02031.68 082810.04 14371.67 20569.51

13 Th 00057.79 06213.55 12408.16 19203.28 14 Fr 01267.78 07423.44 13578.28 20273.05 15 Sa 02378.08 08463.12 15018.58 21212.75

20 Sa A 00002.33 06229.32 12202.27 18399.12

21 Su 00342.25 06589.42 12552.19 19169.15

22 Mo 01092.22 07339.45 13312.16 19509.12

23 Tu 01432.23 08089.41 14082.18 20269.03

9 Tu 02512.03 09159.68 15282.06 21449.03

24 We 02202.30 08469.30 14462.26 21048.89

Ltd)

25 Th 02582.42 09249.14 15292.38 21448.69

Sauna by the Sea

26 Fr 03412.60 10088.94 16142.55 22298.47

Since opening at Sandy Bay in November 2024, Hikitalo has grown thanks to incredible local support, now expanding to Rest Bay. Our saunas are more than just a place to sweat. They’ve become vibrant social hubs where friendships are formed, minds are calmed and wellbeing is supported.

Tu 03143.31 09418.24 15473.48 22027.77 29 We B 04033.73 10367.81 16523.81 23097.37

For our milestone year, we are proud to support two deeply meaningful charities.

01267.54 07503.78 14117.87 20563.42

Th 05194.01 11567.58 18293.83 31 Fr 00417.30 07063.90 13267.81 19553.41

2wish provides vital support for families in Wales who have experienced the sudden and unexpected death of a child or young person.

30 Su 01147.95 07293.26 13468.49 20082.80

We are also raising funds for the Sir Gareth Edwards Cancer Charity, helping children and young people facing cancer, and their families, across South Wales. You can help make our 60th anniversary the biggest and most impactful yet. Register online to let us know you’re joining the fun, set up a JustGiving page to fundraise, or simply make a donation if you can. Every contribution helps.

On Christmas morning, we hope to see the beach full, as we raise the tide high, and spirits even higher as we celebrate 60 years of madness.

Owen Griffiths

10 We 03412.44 10059.24 16212.48 22348.55 11 Th D 04332.84 10578.80 17182.87 23278.15 12 05333.17 Mo 15038.25 21193.06

Did You Know?

Backed by research from Finland, regular sauna use may support:

• Better sleep

• Reduced aches and joint pain

• Faster muscle recovery

• Detox through deep sweating

• Lower risk of heart disease and dementia

Come and enjoy the panoramic sea views from our saunas sometime

27 04292.80 10568.74 17052.72 23218.26 05252.99 11538.56 18052.86 00238.14 06323.09 12588.47 19152.89 Tu 01348.19 07483.02 14088.55 20282.76 31 We 02468.46 09022.75 15198.81 21362.48

Use code SEASIDENEWS25 for 25% o a communal session. www.hikitalo.com

SEA & SPORT

FISH NET ZERO BEACH CLEANS

Thankfully the firework season is over for another year. Every other species can rest easier now the unexpected trauma of noise, air and ocean pollution has finally come to an end. If the fireworks themselves weren’t bad enough for the voiceless there is also the behaviour of some of those who watch the fireworks…and the vast amount of rubbish they leave behind.

We started the summer firework season at the beach at 7am, the morning after each ‘display’ to clean their rubbish off the beach before it got taken by the tide. On the 6 Wednesday mornings we did this we collected 1.35 tonnes of waste and prevented it from being taken out to sea, but we still missed a lot as the tides weren’t in our favour, some of it was gone before we could get to it. So, for the ‘last night of the fair’ and bonfire night we changed tactics and cleaned the beach the minute the fireworks stopped...in the dark! Head torches became the fashion, and we managed to prevent a further 130kg from being taken before the early morning tide could beat us to it. So that’s a combined total of almost one and a half tonnes of rubbish just left where it was consumed … selfishly left for who?

This is a tale of two stories as that’s just the waste the onlookers left. Fireworks are one of the most toxic single use disposable products around. Not only do they contain so many heavy metals and pollutants they also contain plastic components, electric wires and heavily contaminated cardboard…and what goes up must come down so these centrails enter the sea after every explosion, poisoning the ocean out of sight. Just because the lights go out doesn’t mean what created the ‘fun’ has vanished.

Obviously, they will continue again next year so we’ll be back directly after, picking it all up again. All we ask is please spare a thought for the sea life. We can’t stop the fireworks polluting our part of the ocean, but we could at least stop dropping all the rubbish while we are gawping at them!

If you’d like to join us on any of our beach cleans, or contact us to retrieve a net, please check our FishNetZero FB and insta pages. Check out the Pantri-Box window for dates and times. Get in touch info@greenbritainfoundation.co.uk It’s for their Ocean!

BUSY END TO THE YEAR FOR PORTHCAWL SEA CADETS

It has been a busy and rewarding end to the year for Porthcawl Sea Cadets, with members taking part in a series of important events and activities throughout October and November.

In late October, the unit held its annual inspection at Gilgal Church, attended by the Mayor of Porthcawl, local dignitaries, and inspecting staff from the Southwestern Area Headquarters, led by Commander Gary Mills RN. Following the inspection and an impressive series of displays by the cadets, the mayor and the senior officer presented a range of awards and qualifications, including certificates in offshore sailing, dinghy sailing, engineering, and navigation, along with promotional certificates and a new Mayor’s Cadet Award.

Looking ahead, Porthcawl Sea Cadets have an exciting year planned for 2026, including offshore sailing courses aboard TS Royalist – a 100-foot sea cadet-operated sailing vessel – as well as additional training courses on watercraft held both nationally and at Tata Lake, the unit’s local sailing venue.

In November, cadets were proud to support Remembrance activities across the region. They attended the Hope Baptist Church in Bridgend, lining the entrance for a Poppy Appeal concert, assisted the Royal British Legion in Porthcawl with collections for the appeal, and took part in the AllSaints Remembrance Day Parade on 9 November. During the service, cadets stood in solemn formation around the cenotaph, honouring those who had made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

“We will remember them.”

Giulian Hill Chair Porthcawl Sea Cadets

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Email: gkenifick@gkplastering.com

David Ryan Roofing