YLC Your Local Crowd - Winter 2015

YOUR LOCAL CROWD LOCAL CROWD WINTER 2015

Promoting and supporting local business in print & online

FREE

Publishing 30,000 copies, distributing to homes & businesses throughout Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire & Carmarthenshire

INSIDE

OUR WINTER GIFT GUIDE

Cover Image: ŠTiverylucky. FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Shop local & get onto our High Streets for some great gift ideas Pages 8 & 10

PLUS local police news, our theatre guide, historical images, cocktail recipes, our tried & tested review, green advice & much more....

To advertise simply visit www.bit.ly/ylcbook @ylcrowd yourlocalcrowd

DIRECTORY

CONTENT DIRECTORY AUTO Poppit Campers Ltd ..............................3 Classic Cars Wanted ..............................4 TCD Tanygroes Car Dismantlers Ltd ....14 Celtic Scooters & Motorcycles..............21 BUILDING TRADES/SUPPLIES Granicol Ltd ..........................................7 Gerallt Davies ..................................... 11 DPW Lampeter.................................... 11 GT Plumbing....................................... 14 Davies & Jenkins................................. 14 Perpetual 2VG..................................... 15 Mount Trading............................ 18 & 19 LBS Builders Merchants...................... 20 Filter It Out.......................................... 21 Kevin Davies....................................... 21 Brooks Electrical..................................21 Penstar Pumps.....................................23 Stove Works Wales .............................25 Welsh Slate.................................21 & 22 Celtic Sustainables..............................25 Mark Jukes Storage & Woodworking..35 FINANCE & BUSINESS SERVICES Clay Shaw Butler Accountants.............33 Pension Wise.......................................33

HOMES & GARDENS AAA Decorating..................................... 2 Riverside Storage Solutions.................. 3 Teifi Furniture Ltd ..................................4 MGW Discount Store .............................7 Needle Rock ......................................... 9 Red Dragon Rug Spa .............................9 Y Goleudy.............................................11 Norris Carpets......................................11 Teifi Tree Services.................................14 Davies & Davies Furniture Centre........15 DeClutter..............................................23 Cavenhouse Blinds .............................22 LD Furniture & Emporium ..................36 OTHER Sprint Printers........................................4 Gwisgo...................................................4 Parkhill Pictures.....................................9 Mantle Brewery......................................9 Sugarplum Beauty.................................9 Calon Cariad...........................................9 Miss Bonnies Sweet Shop......................9 Diane Mathias ...................................... 9 Dog Food Dave....................................12 Siop Hoffnant Stores............................14

IPC Pest Control...................................14 Cottage Harmony Picture Framers...... 14 Peter Evans Photography.................... 14 Chapman Framing...............................21 Justin Lomas Farrier............................ 22 Cei Vape.............................................. 21 Brodwaith Teifi Embroidery.................22 Home James Taxi’s..............................22 Pembrokeshire Dental Practice........... 25 Arcturus Astrological Services.............................................. 27 Kelsion Kennels.................................. 23 Stop Gap Services............................... 27 PontSteffan, Llandovery & Llandeilo Dental Surgeries ................................ 29 Beach House Hotel............................. 29 Penrallt Garden Centre........................31 IT Eco Pc’s..................................................1 Cliand Computers................................22 Teifi Social............................................29 RESTAURANTS & CAFES Castle Cafe & Cellar Bar........................23 Cardigan Brasserie...............................31

Police/Fire/Ambulance.....................999 Police: Non emergency....................101 Crimestoppers crimestoppers-uk.org ......0800 555111 FIRE & RESCUE Mid & West Wales Fire & Rescue Services: mawwfire.gov.uk ......................................0370 60 60 699 COASTGUARD MRCC Milford Haven, Carmarthen to Friog ...........................01646 690909 MRCC Swansea, Marsland Mouth North Devon/ Cornwall border to river Towy, Carmarthen. dft.gov.uk/mca ........................................01792 366534 NHS Direct ........................................111 www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk Official Web site for the NHS 24 hour telephone helpline, NHS Direct.

Information about health problems.

How to keep healthy. Advice on when to call for help.

Environment Agency Floodline .............

........0345 988 1188 or 0845 988 1188 www.environment-agency.gov.uk ELECTRICITY Western Power Distribution .....................................0800 052 0400 GAS British Gas .....................0800 107 6204 National Gas Emergency Service .........................................0800 111 999 WATER Dwr Cymru Welsh Water.

Water..............................0800 052 0130 Sewerage.......................0800 085 3968 COUNCILS Carmarthen County Council ................................. ......01267 234567 Ceredigion County Council ................................. ......01545 570881 Pembrokeshire County Council ........................................01437 764551 HELPLINES Age Cymru .....................01792 648866 The All Wales Domestic Abuse and

Sexual Violence Helpline ....................... .....................................0808 80 10 800 Carers Direct ..................0300 1231053 Cruse Ceredigion..... ......01239 621141 Disabled Living Foundation Helpline ..... .................................0845 130 9177 Drinkline .......................0800 917 8282 Frank (24hr) Drug problems ........................................0800 77 66 00 National Domestic Violence Helpline (24hr) ............................0808 2000 247 NSPCC Helpline (24hr) .......................................0808 800 5000 Samaritans (24h) ..........08457 90 90 90 RSPCA (24hr) .................0300 1234 999 Missing People (24hr) ..............116 000 Alcoholics Anonymous ................................ ......0845 769 7555 Childline................................0800 1111 childline.org.uk Runaway helpline(24hr)............116 000 missingpeople.org.uk

ESSENTIAL NUMBERS

UPLOAD YOUR BUSINESS FREE TO OUR DIRECTORY www.bit.ly/ylcdirectory

5

Reading this? Then so are your potential customers Advertise with us, simply visit www.yourlocalcrowd.co.uk

CONTENTS DIRECTORY/ESSENTIAL NUMBERS.................5 GIFT GUIDE Look local, shop local & support local. Our guide to the shops found on our High Streets offering gifts for all the family, even the beloved pet! Happy shopping ............8 - 12 DYFED-POWYS POLICE Modern day slavery is happening today. Would you recognise the signs? ............................................................13 TRIED & TESTED We learn the traditional methods of leatherwork with Gaynor and her team at Leather Courses Britain ............16 & 17 GO GREEN Eco Energy gift ideas ...................24 THEATRE GUIDE Looking for a local panto? Our guide to what’s on over the winter months ........ .......................................................................26 SOCIAL MEDIA Some useful tips on how to manage your social media over the festive season .................................................................28 HISTORY Cardigan captured in time..............30 FINANCE Understanding the tax implications for charities ....................................................32 RECIPE Festive cocktails ................................33 PUZZLES Test the grey matter.........................34

YOUR LOCAL CROWD WELCOME TO LOCAL CROWD

With a circulation of 30,000 and door to door delivery by Royal Mail across Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire & Carmarthenshire, YOUR LOCAL CROWD Magazine is guaranteed to reach your target audience. Added to this any advert placed within our printed magazine will also receive a 3 month promotion over our social media platforms.

A

N award winning digital & print marketing company, Your Local Crowd is committed to energetically promoting local businesses across Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire & Carmarthenshire. We do this through our quarterly printed magazine delivered to 30,000 homes and businesses, in a monthly digital magazine, on our interactive website, in a printed and digital Directory and on our Facebook and Twitter pages. Combining print and digital platforms gives us an exceptionally wide reach and great visibility for your business across your local area and beyond.

In 2016 we are extending our advertising opportunities by the introduction of a bi-annual Directory Card, offering exclusivity to individual businesses, delivered by Royal Mail to targeted areas throughout the three counties. Find your 10% Discount voucher inside.

All these advertising opportunities are available at extremely competitive rates. Your Local Crowd prides itself on catering for all budgets, so do get in touch to discuss how we can work with you to promote your business.

We also offer various design services working alongside quality local printers, for your professionally designed advertisements, business stationary, leaflets, menu cards etc.

CONTRIBUTORS Feature Writer: Sally Sellwood.................. www.sallysellwood.co.uk Dyfed Powys Police.................................www.dyfed-powys.police.uk Guides: Joseph Raine............................sales@yourlocalcrowd.co.uk Go Green: Celtic Sustainables. ............www.celticsustainables.co.uk Astrology: Ruth Brocklehurst...arcturusastrologicalservices@gmail.com History: Glen K Johnson.................................... ..www.glen-johnson.co.uk Finance: Clay Shaw Butler. .................................www.clayshawbutler.com

yourlocalcrowd @ylcrowd

Cover Image: ©Tiverylucky. FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Sam Jones Owner/Editor info@yourlocalcrowd.co.uk 01239 460210

Neither Your Local Crowd, nor it’s employees or agents shall be liable to the consumer, or the recipient of services advertised herein for any loss or damage howsoever arising from the provision of such services by the persons, companies or bodies advertised in this magazine. Your Local Crowd hereby warrants that care has been taken to ensure the details displayed are correct at the time of printing, but accepts no liability for changes occurring after print or failure by the advertiser to provide the services as advertised.

6 ADVERTISE WITH US www.bit.ly/ylcbook

GIFT GUIDE Are you looking for that special gift? Are you struggling for gift ideas?

We’ve complied a list of local shops and suppliers to help inspire you

Gift Box Image: © Master isolated images . FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Clothing Fashion & Accessories CALON CARIAD: Lingerie Boutique 24 Albion Square, Aberaeron, Ceredigion.

SA46 0AJ • GIDDY AUNT: Vintage clothes, accessories, and jewellery 11 Market Square, Narberth, Pembrokeshire, SA67 7AU • NO 47: Offering Fashion, Jewellery & Gifts 47 High St, Narberth, Pembrokeshire • CLEO OF CARDIGAN: Collections from Oska, Sahara, Vetono, Masai, Nice Things, Mes Soeurs, Just White and Gardeur 28 High Street, Cardigan. Ceredigion. SA43 1JG • SUSIE’S SHEEPSKIN BOOTS: Handmade sheepskin footwear Spring Gardens, Narberth, Pembrokeshire. SA67 7BT • TEIFI EMBROIDERY: Embroidery service & supplier of garments for businesses clubs and corporate wear

4 Cornel Pendre, Cardigan, Dyfed SA43 1JL • THE WELSH FARMHOUSE COMPANY: Country Clothing, Footwear, Gifts & Homeware 35 High Street, Narberth, Pembrokeshire. SA67 7AS • JELLYEGG FOOTWEAR: 16 High Street, Narberth, Pembrokeshire. SA67 7AR

8

• SPOTTY ZEBRA: Locally handmade craft & gift shop Unit 16, Clos Pencarreg, Aberaeron Craft Centre. Ceredigion. SA46 0DX Galleries & Gifts • JOHN & VICTORIA JEWELLERY: Handmade designed silver & gold Jewellery Ydlanddegwm, Llechryd, Cardigan, Pembrokeshire SA43 2PP • APPLESEED JEWELLERY: Handmade/handcrafted unique sterling silver and copper jewellery www.appleseedjewellery.com

•DIANE MATHIAS FINE ART: Fine artist . Henllan, Llandysul, Ceredigion. SA44 5TD • AUDREY BULL: Jewellery & Gifts 15 High Street, Narberth, Pembrokeshire. SA67 7AR • ABERAERON CLOCK SHOP: Clos Pencarreg, Aberaeron Craft Centre. Ceredigion. SA46 0DX • PARKHILL PICTURES & GALLERY: 27 Pentood Industrial Estate, Cardigan.

Ceredigion. SA43 3AG • THE SHEEP SHOP: Welsh & Celtic Gifts. 32 Bridge Street, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire. SA61 2AD • CUSTOM HOUSE & GALLERY: Local art, gifts, furniture and home accessories. 44-45 St Mary Street, Cardigan, Ceredigion. SA43 1HA • DEBBIES JEWELLERY & GIFTS. Cawdor Terrace, Newcastle Emlyn.

Ceredigion. SA38 9AS • FLOOZIES GIFT EMPORIUM Park Street, New Quay. SA45 9QG • TY BACH TWT: Gifts

1 Wellfield Grove, Crymych. SA41 3QH • CHAPMAN FRAMING & GALLERY 13 Clos Pengarreg, Aberaeron Craft Centre. Ceredigion. SA46 0DX • THE COACH HOUSE: Shop & Gallery St Dogmaels Abbey, Pembrokeshire. SA43 3DX • GWISGO: Vintage & designer clothing & accessories Clos Pencarreg, Aberaeron Craft Centre. Ceredigion.

SA46 0DX • BUTTONS & BOWS: Café & retailer of knitting yarns and sewing materials Water Street, Aberaeron, Ceredigion.

SA46 0DG • TOBY KNITS: Haberdashery, craft supplies, wool, knitting patterns, embroidery materials and kits Cardigan Market, Cardigan.

Ceredigion. SA43 1JL • THE CRAFTERS CWTCH: A shop and gallery showcasing and selling gifts made by talented crafters with unique gifts for all the family 11 Pendre, Cardigan. Ceredigion • PENRALLT GARDEN CENTRE Christmas decorations and gifts Moylegrove, Cardigan. SA43 3BX • CRYTSAL ENGRAVING: Bespoke glass engraving, etching, sandblasting of glass panels, mirrors, custom awards and corporate gifts, lead crystal, wine bottles and kiln-formed glass www.crystal-engraving.co.uk • CARIAD GLASS: Glass gifts, bespoke glass panels and also offer a restoration service

Continues on page 10

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GIFT GUIDE

Continued from page 8

Gift Box Image: © Master isolated images . FreeDigitalPhotos.net

www.cariadglass.co.uk Antiques & Collectables • MALTHOUSE ANTIQUES Back Lane, Narberth. Pembrokeshire.

SA67 7BQ • FURNITURE CAVE ANTIQUES. 33 Cambrian Street, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion S&23 1NZ • KINGS FURNISHINGS: Beulah, Newcastle Emlyn, Ceredigion.

SA389QA • ANTIQUES AND COLLECTABLES AT SOLVA POTTERY: 9 Main Street, Solva, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire.

SA62 6UU • NEW ROAD ANTIQUES: Newcastle Emlyn, Ceredigion. SA38 9BA • ALLTYRODYN ANTIQUES: Rhydowen, Llandysul, Ceredigion.

SA44 4QB Food & Drink Suppliers • MISS BONNIE’S SWEET SHOP 6A Market Street, Aberaeron, SA46 0AS

• CAWS CENARTH CHEESE Glyneithinog, Lancych, Boncath, Carmarthenshire SA37 0LH • CAWS TEIFI CHEESE Glynhynod Farm, Llandysul, Ceredigion. SA44 5JY • CELTIC COUNTRY WINES Producers of fruit wines & Welsh liqueurs, also sells home-produced jams and chutneys The Winery, Henllan, Llandysul SA44 5TD • ST DAVIDS FOOD & WINE: Delicatessen, which specialises in local organic produce. High Street, ST Davids, Pembrokeshire. SA62 6SB • THE GOURMET PIG: Deli & Wine Store – Stockists of local wines,

10

cheeses and meats 32 West Street, Fishguard, Pembrokeshire.

SA65 9AD • MANTLE: Micro brewery proudly producing quality Welsh Real Ales Unit 16 Pentood Industrial Estate, Cardigan, Ceredigion.

SA43 3AG • ULTRACOMIDA: Delicatessen 7 High Street, Narberth.

Pembrokeshire. SA67 7AR Electrical, IT & Hardware • Y GOLEUDY: Lighting and electrical appliances 3 Cawdor Terrace, Newcastle Emlyn. Ceredigion.

SA38 9AS • ECO PC’S: Laptops, computers, repairs & servicing, network solutions & educational resources Park House, Park Teifi Business Park, Cardigan. SA43 1EW • JHE HARRIES ELECTRICAL: Suppliers of name-brand electrical goods Unit 6, Parc Teifi, Cardigan. SA43 1EW • GERALLT DAVIES & SON: Suppliers of power tools & machinery for domestic, commercial & industrial use 4 Chancery Lane, Cardigan, Ceredigion. SA43 1HD • MOUNT TRADING CO LTD: Supplier of agricultural supplies, timber products, building materials and more Glan Yr Afon Industrial Estate, Llanbadarn Fawr, Aberystwyth SY23 3JQ • DPW LAMPETER: Sales, Service, Hire and Repair of Welding Equipment, Compressors, Industrial Pressure Washers and other Trade tools and Supplies Unit21, Llanbed Business Park, Lampeter.

Ceredigion. SA48 8LT

• AAA DECORATING CENTRE: A wallpaper shop selling painting, decorating supplies and power tools 3 Bridge Street, Lampeter.

SA48 7HG • CLIAND COMPUTERS: Laptops, computers, repairs & servicing, network solutions & educational resources 4 Chancery Lane, Cardigan, Ceredigion. SA43 1HD Interiors & Homewares DAVIES & DAVIES: South West Wales’s Leading Furniture Company.

Square hall, Drefach, Carmarthenshire, SA44 5UH NEEDLEROCK UPHOLSTERY: Offering traditional , modern & caravan upholstery and furniture painting www.needlerockfurniture.co.uk RED DRAGON RUG SPA: Oriental Rug Cleaning Specialists & Red Dragon Chem-Dry - Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning OFFER: 20% OFF Clean and Protect service in December & Buy 1 get 1 FREE in the month of January.

T& Cs Apply. Call for your free quote today. Delivery & Collection service available. 01269 843491 www.reddragonrugspa.co.uk www.chemdryreddragon.co.uk LDF WAREHOUSE & LDF EMPORIUM: Pre-owned, new, vintage and Antique furniture and collectables, bric a brac, china and more.

Warehouse Unit 5&6 Pentood Industrial Estate, Cardigan. SA43 3AG Emporium - 20 High Street, Cardigan.

SA43 1JJ

Continues on page 12

Gift Box Image: © Master isolated images . FreeDigitalPhotos.net

GIFT GUIDE Continued from page 10 CELTIC SUSTAINABLES: Suppliers of ecofriendly paint, accessories, lime products and natural insulation 9 Parc Teifi, Cardigan, Ceredigion. SA43 1EW MGW DISCOUNT STORE: Home furniture & gift shop Llanrhystud, SY23 5DG & New Quay, SA45 9PX NORRIS CARPET ABERAERON: Beds, mattresses, flooring & rugs Old Chapel, North Rd, Aberaeron, Ceredigion SA46 0JF MUNDOS:Clothing, accessories and gifts for men, women, children 12 Pendre, Cardigan, Ceredigion.

SA43 1JL

Health & Beauty SUGARPLUM NAILS AND BEAUTY: Professional Nail and Beauty Salon 29c High Street, Cardigan. SA34 1JG. 01239 623576 BODY MATTERS: Professional Beauty Salon. 47 Pendre, Cardigan, Ceredigion. SA43 1JS CEI VAPE: Vape shop run

by Vapers for Vapers Tiffany’s Café, Upland Square, New Quay, Ceredigion.

SA45 9QH THE SALON: Professional hair salon Unit 5, Pentood Industrial Estate, Cardigan. SA43 3AG Pets DOG FOOD DAVE: Leading pet food supplier Cilgerran, Pembrokeshire SA432SR

Other RUTH BROCKLEHURST ASTROLOGER 01239 682578 arcturusastrologicalservices@gmail.com www.arcturusastrologicalservices wordpress.com.

Gift vouchers from £25 CELTIC SCOOTERS & MOTORCYCLES: Offering a selection of quality low mileage pre-owned & new motorcycles, from all the main brand manufacturers. Also selling branded motorbike clothing & accessories.

Unit 39, Honeyborough Industrial Estate, Neyland, Milford Haven.

Pembrokeshire. SA73 1SE LEATHER COURSES BRITAIN: Learn the traditional methods of working with leather and create your own leather products www.leathercoursesbritain.com

WOULD YOU RECOGNISE THE SIGNS? Modern day slavery is happening today. It is a problem for us all and Dyfed-Powys is no exception

I

n October 2015 Dyfed-Powys Police took part in a national week of action targeting human trafficking and modern-day slavery, with officers out in the communities speaking to businesses and spreading awareness of the issue.

Although the week of action has ended, it’s important that this topic remains in the public eye,and that the community continue to retain an awareness of the issue and are vigilant for the signs.

What is Modern Day Slavery Modern day slavery is a hidden crime.

It comes in different guises and includes sexual and criminal exploitation, forced labour and domestic servitude. Common areas of labour exploitation can include factories, food processing labouring, restaurants, maritime and agriculture.

It is difficult to detect but there are signs to look out for, they include; people who have limited family contact; distrust authority; have no friends; appear underfed, uncared for and withdrawn; are disorientated and avoid eye contact. It may be easier to spot houses where victims could be held as the curtains may always be closed or have a reflective coating on them, there may even be locks or bars on the windows, CCTV cameras installed, the letterbox sealed and restricted access to the front and back doors.

What you should do if you suspect it is happening We don’t want people to act on any suspicions themselves, we ask that any information is shared with us so we can put measures in place to gather information and find out if it is taking place. The Police do not work alone, we have specialist teams of people who can help and support victims and their families. You can report any suspicions to us by calling 101, or by calling the national helpline

0800 0121 700, or on line at www.modernslavery.co.uk/ report-it.html Chief Inspector Craig Templeton states “Modern Day Slavery can take place anywhere, and there have recent examples of it happening in South Wales. We are asking people living in our communities in Dyfed Powys to help us find out where it‘s happening so we can put a stop to it and give the victims the support they need.”

Further information can be found at www.modernslavery.co.uk Watch a film on modern slavery and find out about the signs to spot victims and how you can help www.bit.ly/ylcSlavery

FOLLOW THE MONTHLY BLOG FROM DYFED-POWYS POLICE www.bit.ly/ylcpolice1 13

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TRIED & TESTED Sam Jones

Marking the leather around the template with an awl, then cutting the pattern with a very sharp blade and metal ruler.

LEARN A TRADITIONAL SKILL LOCALLY Sam Jones spends a day creating her own beautifully handmade leather ipad case,

O

N a crisp, clear and somewhat fresh day I made the early morning drive through the Preseli Hills to a small chapel just outside Narberth. I entered with some trepidation, but I was met not only with the smiles of the bright and enthusiastic business owner, Gaynor, but also by the glorious smell of leather, along with the warmth of a roaring wood burning fire, which all provided the prefect welcome I needed.

Gaynor is a leatherwork training provider who has been running courses since 2007, offering one, two, three and five day professional leatherworking courses in the picturesque old chapel. I was here for a one day course and very much looking forward to the day ahead.

With her assistants Enya and Sian, Gaynor went through some Health and Safety tips and then proceeded to discuss what was planned for the day.

At my designated workstation, neatly laid out for me, was an apron and an array of tools needed for the task ahead, but my first - and perhaps trickiest, task – choosing the colour of the leather I would be working with.

The chapel, which retains many of its original features, provided plenty of open space to move around, with the walls holding shelves displaying an array of beautifully handcrafted bags, totes, satchels and masks (Gaynor also runs a course on making masks). It is on surveying these lovely finished items that I wonder just what the end result of my day would be.

We moved to a bench, where large rolls of leather were carefully removed from their sacking covers, where we made our colour selection for the day. We were working with the shoulder hide, tanned using vegetable dyes. Only 15% of leather

is tanned this way these days, with the rest being tanned using chrome or aluminium salts. Gaynor showed us a sample of the modern dyed leather and you can clearly feel and smell the difference between the two styles. We are given five colours to choose from, Plum, Black, Dark Green, Red and Tan. I opted for the Tan and couldn’t wait to get started.

Gaynor had pre-prepared stencils of every imaginable design and having chosen my design I took it and my leather and headed off to my workbench.

Preparation proved to be the key when working with such beautiful material and before putting knife to leather, we used a tool called a scratch awl – essentially our pencil - to carefully trace the pattern on to the leather; then, using a knife and metal ruler, and attempting to calm my nerves, I carefully cut the leather into the desired shapes.

Under the watchful eye of Gaynor and with plenty of guidance and support from Enya and Sian, our small working group were given confidence in what we were doing. I was, perhaps, a little anxious about cutting into such beautiful leather, but Gaynor’s sunny disposition and banter gave me the encouragement I needed.

Once cut the edges were dyed or burnished, depending on the colour of the leather. This left the exposed edges with a gloriously professional shine. We then carefully measured and marked our stitch line with dividers and a prickling iron, for the daunting task of hand stitching later. Once marked, glue was applied and the edges were placed together and secured with bulldog clips.

We took a well deserved break at this point and gathered around the crackling wood burner for our lunch and our small

Glued and clamped ready for stitching. marking the stitch holes with a prickling iron, then peircing the holes with an awl.

16 MORE TRIED & TESTED REVIEWS www.bit.ly/ylctt1

TRIED & TESTED

Sam Jones

Stamping out holes, dying the edges then burnishing before carefully and precisely scoring the leather for our stitch line.

WITH LEATHER COURSES BRITAIN

under the expert tuition of Pembrokeshire business owner Gaynor Davies Howell group of ladies commenced to get to know each other better.

On this course were a mother and daughter who live in Pembrokeshire, an analyst who had travelled from London and had enjoyed a bag making class with Gaynor in the past, and a fashion designer/small holder, who bred her own animals in order to create her own fabrics, spun locally in Ceredigion, to create her designs. A very interesting group of ladies who had plenty of stories to share.

After a lively hour of laughter and chat, we headed back to our benches and began the task of stitching. We were shown how to thread two needles, coating the cotton in beeswax for smoothness and added strength, and to my relief we got to practice before having a go on our own leather. The practice proved valuable, as it’s not as easy as it looks!

Perched high on stool with the leather clamped between my knees in a stitching clamp, the first task is to make individual stitching holes with a very sharp awl, following the marks we had made earlier with the dividers and prickling iron. We were shown how to do this, carefully placing our fingers so as to avoid any unwanted piercings! With bright illumination from the overhead light and being placed directly in front of the window, I felt slightly overwhelmed for the first time that day. Could I do this?

I knew I should have brought my glasses! My stitching is going to be awful!

Enya spotted the insecurity and immediately came along and gave me the gentle encouragement I needed, and once I got going I soon settled into a rhythm and found it to be incredibly therapeutic. My mind cleared and I relaxed into the methodical piercing and stitching which concentrated my mind for the next

two hours. We had a break during the course of the afternoon, where Gaynor appeared with some delicious cakes to go with a steaming mug of tea, before we completed the stitching. We all worked at our own pace and there was no pressure to keep up, with Gaynor splitting her team effectively to cater for all.

Once the stitching was complete all that was left to do was add the buttons we had cut earlier, along with the tie to hold the case shut, sand the edges and finish by burnishing to a brilliant shine.

AND WE WERE COMPLETED. Bursting with pride and with a huge sense of achievement, I couldn’t – can’t – quite believe that I have actually made myself a leather, HAND-STITCHED ipad case – and, rather smugly, I couldn’t wait to show it off!

After arriving in the morning feeling very much out of my comfort zone – I haven’t stitched anything other than the knees in my son’s school trousers for years. I left Gaynor and my fellow crafters with a huge sense of achievement, and feeling very proud of myself.

Gaynor and her team offer a great experience, sharing traditional leatherwork skills used for hundreds of years. I cannot recommend this course enough and would love to return to learn more – another course is on my Christmas list, hoping to add to my collection or leatherwork. I aim to leave with a bag to match my lovely ipad case next time!

Gaynor offers course catering for all levels and abilities, but, best bit of all, you come away having not only learned a new skill to build upon, but with a beautiful, handcrafted leather product. www.leathercoursesbritain.com. 01437 563110

Some practice stitching, the finished product and our expert coaches, assistant Enya and owner Gaynor.

MORE TRIED & TESTED REVIEWS www.bit.ly/ylctt1 17

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Kelsion Boarding Telephone 623755 Kennelsor 01239 0771 7754874

• Individual personal care & attention • Heated kennels with individual covered runs • Exercised daily • Special diets catered for • Kennels for larger dogs or doubles • Long/Short stays • Open all year round

INOCULATED PETS ONLY OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9.30am -5.30pm Out of hours by appointment Inspections invited

kelsionkennels@googlemail.com

Pant-y-Defaid, Penparc, Cardigan Ceredigion, SA43 1QR

Morag Embleton Celtic Sustainables

GO GREEN

ECO ENERGY SAVING GIFT IDEAS

W

e all know someone that it’s almost impossible to buy for at Christmas whether it’s because they have EVERYTHING already or they like to avoid the materialism that was not part of the traditional Yule celebrations. Yet you want to give something that is functional, Earth friendly and special.

We have some ideas for you.

Ecofan wood stove fans It’s the gift for the person that has everything.

It also saves up to 18% of fuel costs.

Ecofan wood stove fans sit on top of your wood burning stove (or gas or pellet stove). They move the hot air across the room (rather than it rising to the ceiling above the stove) making the room feel warmer. Therefore you don’t need to put as much fuel on the fire.

Many people watching the Ecofan may think that it’s the hot air that turns the fan. It’s not. The blades run on a small motor, not powered by a battery but powered because of the “Seebeck effect”. Essentially, the temperature differential between the two metal parts of the fan body power the motor. There is a unique semiconductor, a piece of ceramic, between the base of the fan and the top cooling fins and that is where the magic happens (that is where the motor is attached and electrons move). So as the stove heats up the fan runs faster.

Eco-chic furniture painting kits These kits are great for everyone looking to “shabby-chic” an old piece of furniture. They consist of two 750ml tins of luxuriously thick, creamy, matt Earthborn claypaints, a high quality brush, a tin of soft, clear Furniture wax and a handy “how-to” guide.

The claypaints are quick drying and can be used in a variety of ways – layered, sanded or as a colour wash. Add to that it’s water based, plastic free, breathable and totally odour free. It’s a very nice way to transform a piece of old furniture and therefore a whole room!

Baavet wool duvets Baavets are made from Welsh wool and are finished in Wales up near Harlech Castle. Wool is a heat regulator rather than an insulator, which means that as your body cools during the night as you go into deep sleep you are not woken up because you are too hot (or too cold because your partner was too hot and thrown the duvet off the bed!). Brilliantly the amazing thing about a wool duvet is that it will actually regulate the temperatures of two different people in the same bed.

Baavet duvets are dustmite resistant, hypoallergenic and enclosed in a 100% natural cotton quilt. They come in lots of different sizes and tog ratings (for different seasons). The range includes pillows, mattress toppers and pet bedding too!

To find out more about these products pop into our shop and showroom at Celtic Sustainables, Unit 9, Parc Teifi, Cardigan, SA43 1EW or go online at www.celticsustainables.co.uk.

You can also get in touch by email at info@celticsustainables.co.uk or by phone on 01239 623506.

24 FOLLOW THE MONTHLY GO GREEN BLOG www.bit.ly/ylcgreen1

THEATRE GUIDE With the winter season well and truly underway, Your Local Crowd suggest wrapping up and heading down to the local theatre as there’s plenty going on Aberystwyth Arts Centre JANE EYRE – 8th December BRONTE’S Jane Eyre will be streamed live from the Bristol Old Vic onto the cinema screen. As the novel approaches 170 years, the trailblazing story is still as inspiring as ever. Jane Eyre portrays the themes of poverty, betrayal, forgiveness and following your heart.

THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS 18th Dec – 23rd Dec THE extremely popular pre-Christmas family show returns to Aberystwyth this December.

This well-known favourite brings together the best of traditional and contemporary theatre, with beautiful recitals and carol singing. Don’t leave it too late though in-case you miss out as tickets will be in high demand!

THE BEAUTY & THE BEAST 8th – 21st Jan 2016 THE new-year brings back The Wardens with their spectacular annual version of this classic. The beast has to find love before the last petal falls from the magic rose but will all good triumph over the evil?

After all, who can learn to love a beast?

Richard Cheshire directs and plays Dame Cherie Trifle in the Wardens extravagant, enchanting, dramatic and heart-warming play.

Box Office: 01970 62 32 32 Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3DE THEATRE MWLDAN, Cardigan GREASE – 8 & 9th of December DYNAMIX Performing Arts School will host two nights of one of the world’s most

famous musicals. Get ready to rocket back to a day full of slicked back hair, leather trousers and tight white t-shirts! Make sure you do book in advance to witness what was voted “The Nation’s Favourite Musical”!

CINDERELLA 19th - 28th December 2016 CARDIGAN theatre amateur dramatics group brings you the traditional tale of Fairy Godmother, Ugly Sisters, Buttons and the Ball, told in proper panto style.

The original rags-to-riches story with colourful costume and sets added to the mix to entertain all ages over the festive season.

THE WINTER’S TALE 7th January 2016 THIS is an encore screening of Branagh Theatre Live’s version of Shakespeare’s timeless tragicomedy of obsession and redemption. The Winter’s Tale features actors Dame Judi Dench, Tom Bateman, Jessie Buckley and Kenneth Branagh. This high-profile production is a great way to kick-start the new-year.

Reserve your place early!

01239 621200 Cardigan, Dyfed SA43 1JY FELINFACH THEATRE H2O-o! – 5th-12th December THIS Welsh language pantomime takes the audience on a hilarious journey, 40 years into the future to the worldwide fishing championship held in Ceredigion in the year 2055!Plenty of fishing, frolics and fun guaranteed!

01570 470697 Felinfach Theatre, Ceredigion, SA48 8AF TORCH THEATRE, Milford Haven JACK & THE BEANSTALK 19th December-31st December

26 OUR WHAT’S ON GUIDE www.bit.ly/ylcwhatson

COME down to Milford Haven’s Torch Theatre to witness their very own hero Jack , his crazy mother, cow and a handful of magic beans. For every ten tickets sold, Torch Theatre are offering another free ticket!

01646 695267 Milford Haven, SA73 2BU LYRIC THEATRE, Carmarthen SLEEPING BEAUTY 12th - 20th Dec Jermin Productions returns for its second year and proudly presents the popular pantomime, Sleeping Beauty.

A dazzling spectacular production at an affordable price for the whole family, definitely not to be missed 0845 2263510 8 King Street, Carmarthen SA31 1BD THEATR GWAUN, Fishguard JANE EYRE Tuesday 8th December 7pm 01348 873421 Theatr Gwaun, West Street, Fishguard SA65 9AD THE ATTIC THEATRE, Newcastle Emlyn WRYD SISTERS Saturday 11th -19th December “Terry Pratchett takes Shakespeare’s Macbeth and then turns it up ‘till the knob comes off. It’s all there - a wicked duke and duchess, the ghost of the murdered king, dim soldiers, strolling players, a land in peril. And who stands between the Kingdom and destruction? Three witches. Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg and Magrat Garlick.”

Newcastle Emlyn. SA38 9AF www.atticplayers.org.uk

ASTROLOGY

Ruth Brocklehurst

Astrology can be used to help us consider influences and timings and therefore make informed choices about our lives.

So rather than being ‘fatalistic’, Astrology just helps us make the most of our potential and the energy of the time.

Workplace In early December things will seem very tense in the workplace as we struggle for better interpersonal relating while also improving our economic standing. Throughout January processes are at work that encourage deep and cautious reflection. This is part of the vital renewal process and will also help to get us on track with global changes.

Towards the end of January it will be much easier to introduce practical methods that empower and perfect your work. There will be pressure to make our dreams more realistic so they can go out into the world successfully. The use of imagery in the workplace, eg; iphones, etc may start to be disciplined and made useful too.

Relationships We’ll be more focused than usual on relating and social concerns over the coming months. Christmas celebrations should be fairly low key and quiet. New Year arrangements won’t be straightforward. You’ll have to stick with it but be prepared to be flexible if you want to party! Confusion and fantasy will abound but creative or meditative endeavours will be easier. Following difficulties in finding fairness, sexual expression may deepen over the winter and become more spiritual.

Finances There will be a general move to grow your money though ethically. You may feel suspicious of financial schemes so give yourself time to consider until the time feels right. On the 7th January purse strings will be tightening but we’ll be tempted to spend to express our individuality! The 17th February may present you with a feeling of clarity on financial matters which will favour the social investment.

I hope you enjoy the festive season!

Ruth Brocklehurst arcturusastrologicalservices@gmail.com 01239 682578

OUR WHAT’S ON GUIDE www.bit.ly/ylcwhatson 27

TEIFI SOCIAL Sally Sellwood

MANAGING YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA OVER THE FESTIVE SEASON Writing this in early October, it feels a bit like retail businesses who plan and film their Christmas publicity campaigns in summer. But for any business, planning ahead is essential, particularly over a busy time such as Christmas.

I

N the world of social media, where maintaining an online presence, even – or perhaps especially - during the festive season is what it’s all about, taking time out in advance of a busy period, or a holiday, to get organised, will mean one less thing to do and more time to enjoy yourself.

Planning ahead Depending on the nature of your business, Christmas may be quiet – or incredibly busy. Planning ahead, before the festive madness tightens its grip, means you can think about how best to market your business while you have some space to breathe.

If you know in advance that you have lots going on, you will have lots to say on social media, but not necessarily the time to fit it in ‘as it happens’. If your business is involved in community events such as carols or charity giving, plan what you are going to say, plan your posts, then all you need is photos to add and you are good to go.

Think about what you can add to your customers’ experience over the holiday period, and create planned content for social media. For example, if you’re a retail business offering gifts, use social media to advertise opening times, and make ‘last minute’ present suggestions for example.

Using scheduling tools Whatever your business, there will be posts you can put together in advance to stay on top of your social media over the holiday period. Scheduling tools really come into their own for content that can be created ahead of time.

Whether it’s the Facebook function that allows you to assign publication dates and times for posts up to 6 months in advance, or you opt for a separate social media

“Scheduling tools really come into their own for content that can be created ahead of time. ”

management platform, taking time to understand how these work and how they can help you manage your online marketing activity will bring rewards in the long term. In the short term, you can definitely get Christmas covered!

Another thing to be aware of is the best days and times to post on social media. ‘Google’ this topic and you’ll find plenty of information, not to say ‘infographics’, giving advice as to when the best days and times to post on the different social media platforms are. These are usually pretty generic, so as part of your planning, think about when your own social posts get the best responses – early in the week, Thursday afternoon or weekends? Mornings, lunchtimes or afternoons? Do engagement and click throughs happen at different times on different platforms? Nail this and use it to schedule your posts at the optimum times for your business.

Dip in and out Of course, scheduling ensures your business social media accounts carry on posting throughout the festive period, but we all know that the whole point of social media is engagement – responding to comments.

Let your followers know how much engagement they are likely to get from you over the break – ‘pin’ a Facebook post or tweet to the top of your profile to give an idea of how much time you’ll be spending on line and how you will respond. This is particularly important if your customers use social media for customer service issues. Dip in and out of your accounts to keep an eye on things, but otherwise, enjoy the break!

Happy Christmas!

Finding your voice online doesn’t always come easily. Your Local Crowd, in partnership with TeifiSocial can offer assistance with your social media marketing strategy and content creation, and can actively promote your business online, even if you don’t use social media. For more details, please get in touch. sam@yourlocalcrowd.co.uk

28 FOR INFORMATION ON YLC SOCIAL MEDIA PACKAGES www.bit.ly/ylcSMPackages

HISTORY

THE MONKS ST DOGMAELS MOMENTS IN OF TIME: CARDIGAN Glen Johnson, The Teifi Estuary History Man shares his collection of fascinating historical images of Cardigan taken over the years

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6 1. Cardigan High Street. ©R J Owen 2. Workers at Cardigan’s Mwldan foundry. ©R J Owen 3. Grosvenor Hotel, Bridge Street 4. Cardigan Bridge. ©J Banfield. ca1940 5. Castle Green House, Cardigan Castle. ©J Morris 6. Cardigan Semi-National Eisteddfod. CA 1909 ©Casgliad Glen Johnson Collection 7. Bethania Baptist Chapel Choir ©Casgliad Glen Johnson Collection

If you have any historical images of your hometown that you would like to share please get in touch. info@yourlocalcrowd.co.uk 3

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30 FOLLOW THE HISTORY BLOG www.bit.ly/ylcHistory

FINANCE

David Butler, director of Clay Shaw Butler

UNDERSTANDING THE TAX IMPLICATIONS FOR CHARITIES Charity begins at home, they say - and we know that we are all a generous lot when it comes to helping others in West Wales. Many of us have strong links with charities and many play key roles as officers and volunteers for various charitable causes. So, here’s the latest news on the charity front for ‘Your Local Crowd’ readers

T

he taxman at HMRC has updated the detailed guidance notes which outline how the tax system operates for charities.

The notes include how to apply to be recognised as a charity for tax and the operation of gift aid and payroll giving.

Over the last five years, the Government has brought in a range of changes to the tax system to make it simpler for charities to make the most of tax reliefs, so that more money can go to good causes.

Gift aid small donation scheme: Through the gift aid small donations scheme charities can claim a gift aid-style top-up on small donations eg a donation to a charity vendor in the street, up to a limit of £5,000 per year. This limit will increase to £8,000 per year from April 2016.

Charities online: Charities can submit claims for gift aid tax relief online which speeds up the claims process. 95% of charities now use this online system and the claims are processed within five working days.

HMRC outreach team: To date an HMRC outreach team has delivered face-to-face presentations to over 650 charities to spread awareness and help charities to successfully claim tax relief.

Community amateur sports clubs: The Government has amended the law so that local sports clubs registered as community amateur sports clubs can receive corporate gift aid to help these clubs benefit their local communities.

Social investment tax relief: The social investment tax relief scheme has been created to encourage people to invest in social enterprises including charities. Individuals making an eligible investment will be able to deduct 30% of the cost of that investment from their income tax liability.

Lower IHT rate: If people leave at least 10% of the net value of their estate (its worth, minus any debt, other liabilities and reliefs) to charity, then 36% inheritance tax can be paid instead of 40%.

If you want further details on the tax treatment of charities, please contact us at Clay Shaw Butler.

In other news, The Pensions Regulator, TPR has issued the latest statistic on how automatic enrolment and workplace pension schemes are working.

By March 2015, more than 5.2 million workers had been successfully automatically enrolled since the reforms began in 2012, an increase of more than 2.2 million workers from 2014, and 4.2 million from 2013.

Automatic enrolment is helping to turn around the decade-long decline in pension provision, with 59% of all employees now active members of a pension scheme, compared with just 47% in 2012. This increase suggests that pension saving is now becoming the norm.

The pensions landscape has been transformed as the majority of people are enrolled into defined contribution schemes. TPR reports a growth in master trusts - 94% of employers who chose a trust-based scheme opted for a master trust.

TPR now expects that significantly more employers will be subject to automatic enrolment duties than originally anticipated, mainly due to an increase in the number of new companies that have started up, and fewer going out of business than was forecast.

If you would like help with your payroll or advice on Pensions Auto Enrolment, please contact us.

The team at Clay Shaw Butler can be contacted on 01267 228500.

The team at Clay Shaw Butler are on Twitter. Look for @clayshawbutler

32 FOLLOW THE MONTHLY FINANCE BLOG www.bit.ly/ylcfinance1

COCKTAILS A unique, innovative firm of experienced accountants who deliver the highest possible standard of expertise

• We are a dynamic team of 24 able to assist you with your Accountancy and Tax affairs and Business Planning.

• We deal with all industry sectors from Agriculture, Retail, Construction, Tourism, Professional Services to Charities.

• We have an expert in each sector willing and available to meet up with you to discuss the help that we can provide to grow your business tax efficiently.

Please call us today for a free coffee and chat!! Quote YLC2 Clay Shaw Butler Limited Chartered Accountants, 24 Lammas Street, Carmarthen, SA31 3AL

01267 228500

www.clayshawbutler.com

Cocktails have never lost their appeal and never fail to dazzle. Dig out the cocktail shaker, paper umbrellas and mix up something delicious…

PRINCE OF WALES • 1 1/2 oz. (4,5 cl) whisky • 1 oz. (4 cl) Champagne • 1 small piece pineapple or orange • 1 dash Angostura bitters • 1/4 tsp (1,5 cl) Maraschino liqueur • 1 tsp (1,5 cl) sugar Stir the sugar and bitters together, adding whiskey and the liqueur, then the pineapple. Shake with crushed ice and strain into a cocktail glass. Finally add the champagne. You can use cognac or brandy instead of whiskey, Bénédictine instead of Maraschino, and orange in the place of the pineapple.

MOJITO • 50ml white rum • 2tsp brown sugar • ½ fresh lime • 4 mint sprigs • Soda water • Crushed ice • Serve in a highball Cut the lime into quarters and put two in the glass. Add sugar and mint then muddle together, squeezing the juice from the limes. Fill with crushed ice, top with rum and stir briefly to lift the mint and lime from the bottom of the glass.

Garnish with mint and lime.

MARTINI • 2 ½ parts gin • ½ part dry vermouth • 1 or 3 olives, or lemon twist • Dash of bitters, optional • Serve in a cocktail glass Fill a mixing glass with ice, add alcohol and stir for 30 seconds. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish as desired.

A dry martini has half the amount of vermouth, whilst an extra dry martini has a few drops or none. A dirty martini is garnished with olives and has a splash of the brine as well. A Gibson is a martini garnished with a cocktail onion and a vodkatini is made with vodka not gin.

33 FOR MORE COCKTAILS VISIT: http://bit.ly/ylcdrinks 33

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

Test the grey matter

ACROSS 1 Came across a record concerning journalist (10) 6 Language of old city belonging to the French (4) 9 They’ll get wrongly blamed for heading off escape by animals (10) 10 There’s potato in Mum’s pudding (4) 12 Style of cooking providing contrasts (5-3-4) 15 Country-loving Irishman in charge of containing disturbance (9) 17 Giving note to terrorists makes one angry (5) 18 One who latches on to another is a sucker (5) 19 Sailor’s intent perhaps is to be self-restrained (9) 20 A comment sure upset in due proportion (12) 24 Man told to get on his knees? (4) 25 Boundary rope may produce such a decision (10) 26 E.g. dogs returning from walk (4) 27 Not quite one’s best friend on the ship (6,4) DOWN 1 Pretty girl gets some food (4) 2 Animal found in sea location (4) 3 Fat little Edward is biased (12) 4 The First Lady touring Oklahoma will awaken memories (5) 5 The thresholds of delights (9) 7 Heartless robbers go off with a pet. The villains!

(10) 8 Below, below, below (10) 11 Managed to get clergyman in dead awkward

Set by Alberich www.alberichcrosswords.com

situation (12) 13 They are seeking work after demolition of aspic plant (10) 14 Steam railway takes on head of Railtrack to improve efficiency (10) 16 To perform in a different key, one’s parts must be arranged (9) 21 Went on horseback round cowboy show (5) 22 Junk mail from the capital (4) 23 Nothing but a lake (4)

ANSWERS ACROSS: 1. Discovered; 6. Urdu; 9. Scapegoats; 10. Spud; 12. Sweet and Sour; 15. Patriotic; 17. Irate; 18. Leech; 19. Abstinent; 20. Commensurate; 24. Neil; 25. Borderline; 26. Step; 27. Secondmate DOWN: 1. Dish; 2. Seal; 3. Overweighted; 4. Evoke; 5. Entrances; 7. Reprobates; 8. Underneath; 11. Administered; 13. Applicants; 14. Streamline; 16. Transpose; 21. Rodeo; 22. Lima; 23. Mere

We hope you have enjoyed reading the your edition of YOUR LOCAL CROWD. The next will be delivered to your door during the spring. If there are any local community members you would like featured, or indeed subjects you would like us to cover, please get in touch at info@yourlocalcrowd.co.uk. Both contributors and advertisers are welcome, we aim to share and promote all that’s great across Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire. The Magazine can also be read online at www.bit.ly/ylcmag1 along with many more articles of interest. For updates follow us on Facebook and Twitter @ylcrowd

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