Issuu

July 2021

Covering Ystradgynlais, Ystalyfera, Abercraf, Coelbren, Crynant, Banwen, Dyffryn Cellwen, Onllwyn, Seven Sisters, Glynneath, Cwmgwrach, Resolven, Cwmtwrch, Cwmllynfell, Cwmgiedd, Gurnos & Godre’rgraig,

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Editor’s Foreword Last month I was fortunate enough to get away in the caravan for a week over to the beautiful coastline of Cardigan Bay, staying at a site just outside Llandysul. It was, without doubt, the greatest feeling of normality I’ve experienced since the first lockdown. We are so fortunate to have so much on our doorstep in Wales, and it was encouraging to see businesses in Aberystwyth, Aberaeron, Cardigan and everywhere in between taking their social responsibilities extremely seriously. Every bar, café, restaurant or farm shop that we visited was recording names and contact details, even coming out to collect them from customers who were sitting outside. Of course this diligence is entirely understandable – any business with a large dependency on tourism would do well to do all it can to slow or avoid the spread of COVID-19, because the alternative is to end up back in a state of lockdown. These tourist attractions, other than these minor impositions, felt normal and bustling. One of the stranger sights was seeing the snooker and pool hall in Aberystwyth’s Royal Pier busy and bustling with masked up players bent over the tables! Certainly, the number of visitors from over the border in England was very apparent and in great numbers, which in itself makes one wonder about how different a stance Senedd would be able to take to Westminster’s in a few days’ time, if it wanted/needed to do so. It’s made me quite proud when talking to business owners that not a single one has complained that the measures that have been taken were unnecessary, despite what the media seem to keep digging up. Like those that I visited on holiday, I think most of us realise that we have to do what we can if we are to keep levels low. It would be a grave mistake to assume that vaccination alone was the answer to this puzzle. Services, including mental health, sickness payments and benefits must all play their part in an ongoing solution, although there is little noise from Westminster to suggest that any of that is a priority to them. So far UK Gov have one single success among their many failures – that they procured enough vaccines early on. This was probably more down to luck than judgement (or a serendipitous mutual benefit to wealthy shareholders of the medical suppliers), but credit where credit’s due. To read of the disdainful offer to NHS workers and carers after their courageous stand against the virus is made even more painful when compared to what’s happened over in Europe, where French health workers, for example, have been given a pay rise worth €8 billion and those that lost their lives have been awarded the status ‘Died in the service of the republic’, which brings with it benefits for the families and children they leave behind. Quite why we accept our status as unworthy in the eyes of our rulers in this country continually dumbfounds me but, sadly, it’s not a lesson that we collectively seem to be learning. Six decades after the working class were mercilessly mocked with the famous and painfully accurate “I know my place” sketch, we seem to be still in the same state of mind.

Phil

COVID 19 STATEMENT: We are currently in an ever changing situation in dealing with the

virus. Please remember that each of our advertisers are also being affected by this, and new restrictions may mean that their advertised service is restricted in some way. This is frustrating for all concerned, please be polite and understanding with the businesses you deal with. Information contained in the magazine may no longer be accurate by the time you read it. If you want to write to the magazine our address is: Community Mag, 8 Darren Road, Ystalyfera, Swansea SA9 2HP. You can also e-mail us at mail@communitymag.co.uk. DEADLINE FOR AUGUST 2021 EDITION - JULY 15th 3

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Crossword

Answers on page 66

ACROSS

DOWN

4. Tin primate or starter (6)

2. Spiritual being viewed from different angle (5)

8. Shred tempo for syncopated music (7)

3. Building discovered if ice found (7)

9. Find perfection inside Alaska (5)

4. Confused her cub with infant (6)

10. Hawaiian garland, certain relaxation (7)

5. Lacking experience, twisted a vein (5)

11. Oddment found in pendant (3)

6. Introduce a gift (7)

12. Star gets to discover objective (6)

7. Foreign leader showed the way or ran (4)

14. Bravest try to find room in church (6)

13. Spanish affirmative during monsoon produces fruit (7)

1. Large creature, cow’s tail looks healthy (5)

18. Snow runner wrapped in buckskin (3) 19. Cop able to rearrange inert medication (7) 21. Young woman is out of order (5) 22. Find strength, request a minaret (7) 23. Uses caper to find a way out (6) 24. Replace initial calories in a dairy product with a dead end aspiration (5)

1. Conflict & declamation result in court order (7

15. Turn mere lad into stone (7) 16. Measure limb on sailing ship (7) 17. Has sleep trouble, essentially (6) 18. Box or spring ring leader (4) 19. Previous Australian leader makes dough (5) 20. I love various Mediterranean fruit (5) 7

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NEW BENCH IN THE DIAMOND PARK

During the period of the Covid 19 pandemic lockdown in 2020-2021 there has been a much greater footfall in the Diamond Park, Heol Glantawe, Ystradgynlais. Many walkers having ‘discovered it’ for the first time and have been impressed with the area’s natural beauty, footpaths and information panels placed within the park’s boundary by the Town Council and Ystradgynlais District Heritage and Language Society. The nine information panels, on stone plinths, outline the history of the district’s former rich coal industry. A number of visitors to the park expressed a wish for the Town Council to provide additional benches in the area. The Council, working in partnership with the Heritage Society, has recently placed a new bench on the footpath which runs parallel to and behind Heol Glantawe between the Park’s main entrance and the footpath leading from the Café Chameleon to Station Road. The bench has drawn favourable comments from members of the community as it depicts a mining theme collage panel on its back support and is in keeping with the area’s mining heritage. The site being the location of the former Wern Plemys / Gurnos Colliery and the Diamond Colliery. The project was funded by the Town Council with a financial contribution from the Heritage Society’s funds. The bench was manufactured by local company Streetmaster based in the Ynyscedwyn Business Park and installed on site by Matthew Thomas and his team. A copy of the mining collage in the bench’s back panel is shown below.

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WORKING GROUP PLANNED TO SHAPE FUTURE OF CEFN COED COLLIERY MUSEUM SITE

Neath Port Talbot Council cabinet members are being asked to endorse proposals to establish a new working group to help draw up future plans for the historic Cefn Coed Colliery Museum site in Crynant, Neath. Extensive survey work at the museum site has uncovered serious structural issues including flaking stonework, unsafe tunnels, asbestos and corrosion and it has been estimated that the emergency Health and Safety works will be in excess of £1.25m whilst an investment of around £8m would be needed to take it forward as a visitor attraction. The problems pose serious dangers to users of the site meaning the museum will therefore not be able to re-open this summer Discussions on the future of the Grade II listed Cefn Coed Colliery facility have been ongoing for a number of years. It is owned by the Welsh Government but part of the land and buildings comprising the museum are leased to the council. In August 2019, Neath Port Talbot Council successfully secured a Welsh Government grant offer with exciting plans to transform the museum into one of a number of Valleys Regional Park gateway centres with proposals for a café, craft shop and an innovative, interpretive experience telling the history of the colliery and surrounding area. But due diligence checks identified that the initial proposals could not progress and, partly due to the delaying effects of Covid-19 restrictions, there was insufficient time to bring forward alternative proposals in the timescales of the grant. And now the results of detailed surveys at the museum and surrounding areas have been received, it is clear the grant offer would have fallen far short of the total financial investment needed at the site. A meeting of Neath Port Talbot’s Cabinet on June 2nd proposes setting up a Cefn Coed Working Group to provide input into future proposals for the site. It will be chaired by the council’s Director of Education, Leisure and Lifelong Learning, Andrew Thomas, and will comprise council representatives and representatives of external partner stakeholder organisations to provide a clear way forward for the site. 13

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The Importance Of Having A Will What is a Will? A Will is a legal document which allows you to decide who receives your assets after you die and states who you would like to administer your estate i.e. your executors. It can also cover other issues such as funeral wishes, the appointment of guardians for young children and provision for pets to name but a few. What if I don’t make a Will? If you die without having made a will then the rules of intestacy will apply instead. This is a very rigid set of rules which state who would receive your estate based on their relationship to you. Unmarried partners and step children do not benefit under intestacy and so it is better to choose yourself who to benefit to ensure your wishes are followed. Choosing Executors Your executors are the people you choose to administer your estate and would need to deal with matters such as arranging your funeral, sorting out your personal effects, selling/ encashing assets, paying tax and any liabilities and transferring assets to your beneficiaries. This can be an onerous task so it is important that you discuss this with them before preparing your Will to ensure that the people you have chosen are willing to act. Professional Advice You can also choose professional executors such as Jennifer Melly Law, or where you are appointed as an executor yourself you can seek professional advice to help you administer the estate correctly. This can be particularly helpful where there is a possible dispute, where the estate is liable to inheritance tax, where there is a business or farm involved or where there is no one who is able to take on the role for you. These are just some of the things you need to consider when making a Will. By putting in place some simple arrangements you can make clear your wishes which can alleviate complications after your death and offer reassurance to loved ones faced with making difficult decisions on your behalf. At Jennifer Melly Law we have a team of lawyers who specialise in preparing Wills and can discuss with you your particular situation with a view to preparing a Will to suit your needs. Please contact us on 01639 630057 for further advice.

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We’d like to say a huge THANK YOU to all the local people, businesses and organisations who have donated to us so generously. Our opening hours are: Monday 10.30am-1.30pm Donations & collections Wednesday 10.30am-1.30pm Donations & collections Thursday 6pm-7pm Donations only Friday 10.30am-1.30pm Donations & collections We accept donations of dried / tinned food, toiletries, dental & feminine hygiene products – check our Facebook page for lists of things we’re running short of. You can also drop donations off in our donation trolley at ASDA Ystalyfera and the box in Home Bargains Ystalyfera.

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FOR JULY 2021

by Jonathan Powell, Swansea Sound Weatherman

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

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After an encouraging opening first half of June followed by a rather indifferent run for the second half, July will also offer some very warm weather, but similarly with the risk of thunderstorm activity. Whilst we can look forward to some beautiful weather during the middle month of the season, with clear blue skies and pleasant sunshine, there is also, as with every burst of warm summer weather, the risk that these settled conditions will eventually break with thunderstorms, not unlike the spectacular displays across the region in August 2020. So, whilst some stunning July conditions seem very likely, expect too some rain at times, possibly torrential in nature. Therefore, any runs of drier weather will probably be cancelled out by the amount of rain, making for an average to perhaps just above month for rainfall. Temperatures, whilst potentially very high at times, will also flatten out over the course of July to produce an average month. Jonathan Powell, Monday June 14th 2021

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

Hi Phil, Once again I’m so happy to read your words in Community Mag. Your voice is one that is courageous enough to step up and challenge the narrative; the one created so its easy to understand and comfortable to accept by the masses of people by the media. I honestly don’t blame you for feeling deflated about writing about anything at the moment. I felt the same after the Senedd elections this year when the status quo was accepted and embraced. Don’t get me wrong, I love that Wales has once again stood firm on its opposition to extremist fascism growing in our neighbouring government. I just hope the Senedd survives long enough until the next elections, for momentum behind independence supporting parties to grow further and save it permanently. I can honestly say that Westminster is truly frightening me right now and my fear goes to my core when I see support for it continue steadily. Palestine is but one example of the kind of cruelty Westminster is capable of. Truly bad things are coming unless something is done - I honestly don’t know how much longer we can wait. Best wishes to you and your readers, Jasmine Before refurbishment After refurbishment

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PRAISE FOR VOLUNTEERS CARING

They are often overlooked but it’s time to celebrate all those who give up their own time to help others stay fit and well. As part of National Volunteers’ Week earlier this summer, Swansea Bay University Health Board (SBUHB) shone the spotlight on some of the small army of volunteers who help deliver a range of services, designed to promote health and wellbeing, in their communities. Both Swansea Council for Voluntary Service (SCVS) and Neath Port Talbot Council for Voluntary Service (NPTCVS) help recruit volunteers for roles orchestrated by SBUHB’s eight clusters of GP surgeries. Many have helped roll out the vital Covid-19 vaccination clinics – acting as stewards or meet and greeters – during the pandemic, while others befriend the elderly and help them become more computer literate, or act as lifestyle champions to youngsters wanting to be more active. Praising their efforts, Cwmtawe Cluster lead, Dr Iestyn Davies, said: “We have found the volunteers very helpful, especially during the pandemic. They have assisted the elderly and the isolated, getting their shopping and any essentials. “We have also found them very helpful in the surgery, especially with our flu and Covid vaccination clinics, assisting us in greeting and directing patients in the appropriate manner. “There’s a breadth and depth to the volunteer sector that runs throughout our communities, and we couldn’t do without them at the moment.” NPTCVS’s principal officer for volunteering and strategic development, Gemma Richards said: “Volunteering is about doing something you enjoy and there are ways for everyone to get involved, even if you don’t have much time to spare. “Helping others can be really rewarding and give you a sense of purpose. “If you lack confidence or feel like you don’t have much to offer, volunteering helps to gently build your confidence in a supportive environment and simply giving your time can make a real difference to your community. “It can improve your mental health and wellbeing and it looks great on your CV, helping you to stand out from the crowd when applying for a job. “You may already have a good idea of where you’d like to volunteer - such as for your local health board, local council or a community group or charity. “Your local volunteer centre can provide you with information about volunteering and help signpost you to volunteer opportunities in your area. You can also search online at www.volunteering-wales.net.” Endorsing the benefits of volunteering for the community as well as volunteers themselves, Amy Meredith-Davies SCVS’s health and wellbeing partnerships manager, said: “Volunteering offers vital help to people, worthwhile causes and the community - but benefits can be even greater for you as a volunteer as it can help you to meet new people, connect with the community and even support you to develop your skills and confidence, which can help you with finding employment.

FOR THEIR COMMUNITIES “It is also really good for your wellbeing and provides many benefits to both mental and physical health.” Karen Joseph, aged 62, and Gill Davies, aged 66, both volunteer as Covid vaccine meet and greeters in the Cwmtawe Cluster. They welcome patients to clinics, put them at ease and direct them to the vaccine provider, while ensuring they stay socially distanced and wear a face covering. Explaining why she volunteers, Karen said: “I wanted to do my bit during the Covid crisis. “I get a great deal of satisfaction knowing I’ve helped, even if only a little bit, and have met so many lovely people both in the medical profession and in the community.” Gill also wanted to help in the fight against Covid. She said: “I had recently retired and felt that I could be of some small help in the fight against Covid. “Everyone I met was very friendly and more than willing to help me settle into the role. “I can honestly say that it was a pleasure to volunteer and although we were busy, we had lots of banter and were made to feel really welcome.” Amy Parry aged 35, is a Digital Volunteer who helps those who are not familiar with using new technology. She said: “During the pandemic I was off work on maternity leave and wanted to offer my services in some way. I volunteered my time to help people with any digital issues or questions and offered support using new technologies. “I got an enormous sense of pride knowing I have helped someone who needs the support and confidence to have a go, and to know that I have made someone’s everyday life a little bit easier.”

To contact SCVS call 01792 544000 or email volunteering@scvs.org.uk To contact Neath Port Talbot CVS call 01639 631246 or email Info@nptcvs.org.uk For more information on volunteering directly for Swansea Bay University Health Board, visit https://sbuhb.nhs.wales/working-for-us/volunteering/

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

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D&R ROOFING Limited The LOCAL Specialist with over 25yrs experience in this area The Specialist for all your roofing requirements, including • Tiling and Slating • Fibreglass and Rubber Roofing • Chimney Stacks taken down & rebuilt • All uPVC Guttering & Fascias • All Lead Work undertaken • All Work Guaranteed • Free Estimates

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The High Sheriff of Powys Peter R James MBE came to visit Ystradgynlais and popped in to say hello. It was a great pleasure to meet you. ‘Big Thanks’ to Credu Cymru.

Ystradgynlais Volunteer Centre,

The Old Remploy Factory, Wind Road, Glanrhyd, Ystradgynlais Swansea Valley, SA9 1AF Tel: 01639 845 475 Email: yvcvolunteering@gmail.com Website: http://www.ystradgynlaisvc.org.uk

Ystradgynlais Foodbank Our Foodbank Service, which is based at Ystradgynlais Volunteer Centre, helps people & families in need facing financial and other hardship. If you or someone you know needs support please get in touch. Tuesdays and Thursdays

NEW OPENING TIMES 10.00am until 12.00pm CAN YOU HELP US? HERE’S HOW

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The Old Remploy Factory, Wind Road, Glanrhyd, Ystradgynlais, Swansea Valley, SA9 1AF Tel: 01639 849 192 Email: yvcoutreach@gmail.com Website: http://www.ystradgynlaisvc.org.uk

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No painting or repairs for 25 years? It must be a ColourFence!

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Attention all MOTABILITY scheme drivers Did you know that you don’t have to travel to the main dealers for your servicing and MOTs?

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BEAUTIFUL BLINDS TO ENHANCE ANY HOME Janela Shutters & Blinds are a leading supplier of high quality interior shutters and finest quality window blinds. Our range of blinds include venetian, vertical, roller, pleated and roman. All our products are installed by master craftsmen and fully guaranteed.

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VISITOR: HOUSE SPARROW WELSH NAME: ADERYN Y TO July is just about the time when young birds leave home and gain their independence, so don’t be too surprised if you spot some fledgling House Sparrows in your garden this month. As far as birds go, this one does exactly what it says on the tin - it’s no accident that it was given the name House Sparrow! These little dynamos thrive alongside human habitats, often living close to, on or even in our homes. They are even on record for living and breeding coal mines. Young birds are fed on insects, but that stout bill is tailor made for gobbling up lots of seed in adults. Adult males normally have a grey crown and nape, the sides of the head are brown and they have a wide black bib down the front. Curiously, dominant males tend to have larger bibs than their contemporaries. Their backs and wings are brown with streaks of black and often a few white feathers on the wings. Adult females retain the colourings of both sexes when juvenile - a light sandy brown with darker brown and grey streaks on their backs and wings. You may be lucky enough to catch a few of these kicking up clouds of dust as they take a dust bath. Although we may think of them as common and populous, numbers of House Sparrow are in serious decline in the UK, with numbers halving in the countryside and decreasing by as much as 60% in towns and cities over the past few decades. The decline is more pronounced in England, particularly the South East, than in Wales and Scotland. To attract them to your garden you just need plenty of cheap seed mix - they prefer grain to anything. They like to feed in groups, so hanging multiple feeders together is a good idea. They will also eat peanuts from a mesh feeder. House Sparrows mate for life, so if you have nests on your property you’ll likely see the same pair return throughout their lives.

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Men’s Health Awareness Week: We’re here to listen, says charity

Macmillan Cancer Support says that while men represent 51% of people diagnosed with cancer, they represent only 37% of calls to the charity’s Support Line. This means that many men are missing out on the essential support they need after a cancer diagnosis. Richard Pugh, Head of Partnerships for Macmillan Cancer Support in Wales, said: “The pandemic in Wales has left a worrying and lasting legacy on cancer care in our country as fewer people have been able to raise concerns over symptoms and this, compounded by delays in treatments, will mean poorer outcomes. “I’d urge men not to ignore their health concerns but trust their instincts about their bodies and not to put off making an appointment with their GPs. There is nothing more important for you, and for the people that love you, than getting your symptoms checked out. “Delays to both diagnosis and treatment for cancer have real consequences so it’s really important men feel confident to get the treatment and support they need.” The Macmillan Support Line is open 7 days a week, 8am-8pm on 0808 808 00 00, providing emotional and practical support. The charity’s cancer information nurse specialists and other specialist advisors have a huge amount of knowledge from advice about money and work, through to information about diagnosis and treatment, and can sign-post to local Macmillan services across Wales. Macmillan is also reminding anyone worried about cancer symptoms to contact their GP as an absolute priority. The latest guidance on coronavirus for people with cancer is available on the charity’s online Covid-19 hub. 37

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Call: 07779 339 726 Email: info@outofthinairwales.co.uk www.outofthinairwales.co.uk LIVING IN POWYS - INFORMING OUR WELLBEING PLAN Residents across Powys are being asked to help inform the county’s next well-being plan. The ‘Living in Powys’ engagement exercise runs until midnight on Sunday 11 July. The Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act, which came into force in April 2016, is about improving the social, economic, environmental, and cultural well-being of Wales. The Act established Public Service Boards (PSB) for each local authority area, made up of the council, the health board, the fire and rescue service and Natural Resources Wales. Cllr Rosemarie Harris, Chair of Powys PSB said: “Powys PSB is responsible for developing a local Well-being Assessment and Well-being Plan for the area and updating that plan every five years. “We are keen to hear from residents across the county to ensure that we can understand the pressures our communities are facing so that we can use the information from this engagement exercise, along with other sources of data, to inform our next well-being plan for Powys.” You can respond in the following ways: • online survey - https://www.haveyoursaypowys.wales/informing-our-wellbeing-plan • paper copy – please email customerservices@powys.gov.uk to request a printed version

For more information about Powys PSB and the well-being plan, please visit the Well-being in Powys web page: https://en.powys.gov.uk/sustainability

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PUPILS HELP PLANT FRUIT TREES TO HELP OFFSET EMISSIONS

Schools in Neath Port Talbot have been given fruit trees to help offset carbon emissions and to be used as a learning resource for pupils. The project was thought up by Neath Port Talbot’s Youth Council who teamed up with The Old School Nursery in Cwmtwrch to supply the trees. Just short of 100 fruit trees were donated to 31 primary and secondary schools across the county borough. Pupils from each school helped to plant the trees and will be responsible for the aftercare. Erin Sandison, Neath Port Talbot’s Youth Mayor and Youth Council member, said: “As a Youth Council, we feel it’s really important that everyone plays their part in looking after the environment for future generations. Planting one tree at every school may only make a small difference but we are committed to doing our bit to offset carbon emissions and provide a habitat for wildlife. “It’s also a good opportunity to get pupils outside the classroom and learn about the importance of nature and growing seasonal produce.” Councillor Peter Rees, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Culture, said: “Getting pupils to roll up their sleeves and get involved in planting trees is the perfect way of helping them to understand the importance trees have in the local and global environment. “The council’s Decarbonisation and Renewable Energy Strategy (DARE Strategy) sets out our commitment to reducing our own carbon footprint and we how we plan to work with businesses and communities for a cleaner, more prosperous and healthier county borough”. Lee Roberts, the owner of The Old School Nursery, said: “I think it is a great initiative, one that will benefit the schools and the local community. I was happy that I was able to support the Youth Council and provide the trees for their project.” Neath Port Talbot’s Youth Council is made up of young people aged between 11 and 25 who champion Children’s Rights by ensuring they have a say and influence decisions affecting their lives.

Schools in Neath Port Talbot that are interested in receiving a tree should contact Rachel Davies, Youth & Community Worker at r.a.williams@npt.gov.uk

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

Yellowstone National Park is which US state? Alan Titchmarsh, Charlie Dimmock and who else were in TV’s ‘Ground Force’? Whose face was the first to be seen on a postage stamp? In 1938 whose radio broadcast of ‘The War Of The Worlds’ caused panic in America? Whos CIA contact was called Felix Leiter? Who was the worlds most prolific serial killer until his suicide in 2004? Which volcano is close to Naples? Which Ukranian city gave its name to a popular chicken dish? Which two sports make up the biathlon? Which two colours make up the Greek flag? Which liberating event took place 70yrs ago? Princess Diana alias Diana Prince becomes who? What spooky song did Bobby Boris Picket & The Crypt Kickers have in 1962? Which singer is known as ‘The Man In Black’? Who trained the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles? What rock band appeared as themselves in Coronation Street in 2005? Which Prime Minister preceeded Tony Blair? Which planet in our solar system has 4 rings? Which part of the body is effected by emphysema? Which South American river shares its name with a womble? Name ‘Frosty Knickers’ on the TV quiz show the chase Which channel island is famous for its tomatoes? What national charity is based in Poole, Dorset? What is the most abundant creature on earth? Where in the house would you find a magnetron? Where on a horse would you find a frog? Name the parrot in Treasure Island? What was Buffalo Bill’s real name? What was Bruce Lee’s first Hollywood movie called? ‘Revealed who slay’ is an anagram of a world known target ace, who?

Now turn the page for the picture quiz. Answers are printed at the back of the magazine 43

DINGBATS - Can You Decipher Their Meaning? 1

ANSWERS ON PAGE 66

Allech chi FAETHU plentyn fel Harry? Rydym angen pobl leol i gynnig cartrefi cariadus i blant lleo.

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Trading Standards Wales issue Census text scam warning

Trading Standards Wales has been made aware of a text message scam in relation to the national Census. Recipients are told that there is information missing from their completed Census and asked to click on a link to complete their form or face prosecution. By clicking the link they are directed to a site which appears identical to the original online census form, on completing the form and submitting the recipient is asked to pay a £1.25 fee. Helen Picton, Chair of Trading Standards Wales, said: “Scam calls and texts to mobile phones are a serious problem, there is no mobile phone equivalent to a landline call blocker to stop them coming through. “Some of these messages are very convincing. Remember, that no government agency would send you a notification demanding money via text or via automated telephone message. If a company sends you a link via text message to click on, ignore it. If you are unsure because you have an account with that company, contact them directly and don’t use the link provided.”

There are some things you can do to cut down the numbers of scam calls and texts: • Most mobile phones have settings to block numbers. Search the internet for “blocking numbers on my (brand) mobile more advice on your phone” or there is usually advice on your mobile phone providers website • You can register with the Telephone preference service • Report these texts to National cyber security centre – 7726 • https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/guidance/suspicious-email-actions • Contact Census 2021 Contact Centre by Ringing 0800 141 2021 for England and 0800 169 2021 for Wales.

The Cross • 01639 842522

/GlantaweCarpets

44 Years in Continuous Family Ownership

Newyddion Adran Gynradd Ysgol Gymraeg Ystalyfera Cyfleoedd coginio Mae sawl dosbarth o’r Cyfnod Sylfaen wedi bod yn coginio dros yr wythnosau diwethaf. Dyma wynebau hapus iawn ein disgyblion o Flwyddyn 2 a’r dosbarth derbyn. Roedd Blwyddyn 2 wedi mwynhau ysgrifennu cyfarwyddiadau ar baratoi brechdan mêl ac wedi iddo gael ei baratoi yn gywir, buodd cyfle i’w flasu, gydag ambell ddisgybl wrth eu bodd â’r blas ac ambell un arall ychydig yn ansicr! Bu’r dosbarth derbyn yn coginio dynion Sinsir yn yr ystafelloedd coginio uwchradd. Rydym yn falch eich hysbysu bod y disgyblion wedi llwyddo i ddal pob un dyn sinsir cyn iddyn nhw rhedeg nerth eu traed o’r ffwrn! Diolch byth am hynny! Yn ôl disgyblion y derbyn roedden nhw’n flasus drosben. Cooking activities Some of our Foundation Phase pupils have been taking part in cooking and food preparation activities over the past few weeks. Here are some very happy faces from our Year 2 and Reception classes. Year 2 have enjoyed writing instructions on preparing honey filled sandwiches and tasting them upon completion! Some pupils have enjoyed the taste very much whilst others have been less keen. The reception class have enjoyed baking gingerbread men in the secondary site kitchen. We are pleased to inform you that all gingerbread men were captured before they ran away from the ovens! According to the reception pupils, they were very tasty indeed.

Gweithio’n yr awyr agored Mae’n gwaith yn yr awyr agored yn parhau gyda’n disgyblion wrth eu boddau yn mynychu sesiynau cyson yn arsywli a dysgu am fyd natur. Heb os, gwelwn effaith positif ar ein disgyblion o ran eu lles pan mae nhw’n manteisio ar weithgareddau yn yr awyr agored a rydym yn frwd iawn manteisio ar unrhyw dywydd braf er mwyn cynnal gweithgareddau tu allan. Mae Blwyddyn 1 a 2 wedi bod yn adnabod coed a phryfed yn yr ardal allanol dros yr wythnosau diwethaf. Diolch i’r Adran Ddiogelwch ar y ffyrdd o NPT am drefnu sesiynau beicio a sgwter i’n disgyblion yn yr adran Iau. Wnaethon nhw ddysgu sgiliau gwych yn ystod y sesiwn. Edrychwch ar wynebau hapus dosbarth Pwyll isod! Working in the outdoor area Our work in the outdoor area continues with our pupils enjoying spending regular time in the outdoor area. Without a doubt we are seeing a positive impact of being outdoors and noticing the wonderful sites and sounds of nature. Years 1 and 2 have been recognising trees and insects in the outdoor area over the last few weeks. Our thanks goes to the Road Safety Team in NPT for organising bike and scooter sessions for pupils form the Junior Department. They learned some very important skills during the sessions in order to keep themselves safe whilst using their bike or scooter. Here are some of our Pwyll class enjoying their session.

Gweithio gyda phartneriaid o fewn ein rhanbarth Rydym wedi derbyn cyfle i fod yn rhan o broject gwych o dan arweiniad y Gweilch yn hybu sgiliau’n disgyblion o ran eu cyfathrebu a sgiliau chwaraeon. Mae dosbarth Culhwch wedi derbyn eu sesiwn gyntaf ac wedi mwynhau yn fawr iawn. Roedd y sesiwn holi ac ateb dros TEAMS yn lwyddiant ysgubol gyda’n disgyblion yn holi cwestiynau craff iawn. Braf iawn yw nodi bod y chwaraewyr wnaeth ymuno â ni yn meddu ar yr iaith Gymraeg hefyd – roedden nhw’n fodelau rôl gwych i ddisgyblion hŷn yr Adran Gynradd.

Working with other partners in our region We have had the opportunity to be part of an excellent project with the Ospreys promoting our pupils communication and sporting skills. Our Culhwch class have already taken part in their first session and have enjoyed greatly. The first session was a question and answer session over TEAMS and our pupils had prepared some excellent questions for the players. It is wonderful to note that the players spoke Welsh and they proved to be excellent role models for our pupils.

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for JULY 2021 by Izabella Vlahavas

Aries – Sudden ups and downs in your finance sector plus a couple of pleasant surprizes can keep you a little on edge, but plans have to go ahead. You have started something you feel very confident about and you find lots of motivation helps you keep to your course. The new moon on the 10th of the month comes into your home zone which brings a new beginning for you and your family. Make this a starting point. A strong sense of change for the better is in your career zone. Taurus – Driven by the decision to make changes wherever necessary makes you forceful and determined this month. There is a full moon in your career zone on the 24th and this is the right time to take a step back and draw a line under an undertaking that has given you it s all. Differences of opinion within family and home make you more assertive and stubborn. Use charm to get others on your side. Friends can be supportive and caring. Gemini – Both Venus and Mars are in your zone of communication until the 22nd and this will make you more sociable than usual. Bringing people towards you and networking about your mutual interests and activities. This is a good time until the 28th for anything related to work or career objectives, with sudden opportunities where you were not expecting to find them. The full moon on the 24th falls in your travel zone, so take a deep breath and make new plans, widen your horizons. Cancer – The moon in your own sign on the 10th brings the feeling of a new and much awaited start for you, Cancer. A personal new beginning as you feel the cycle just closing has well and truly departed. You have lots of enthusiasm, new ideas and the need to mix with friends. It is very likely that unexpected meetings will turn into something more than you expect. Good luck at the end of the month around joint finances. This will give you the chance to sort out any unfinished business. Leo – You are building up reserves of energy and keeping yourself very busy simultaneously. Both Mars and Venus in your sign until the last week of July make you active and pushy and charming, so you gain influence and make friends with people who can assist you. You find the patience and the smarts you need to get a new project up and running, probably to do with your career. You are keen to try out new ideas. The full moon on the 24th is in your close relationship zone. Virgo – There will be s couple of propositions that find interesting from business partners. In the area of your chart that is concerned with routines and daily work you feel there has to be a strict set of rules. You may find it hard to relax and worry about making enough time to cover all you need to do. Find time to relax, so that you can be more productive. The new moon in your friendship zone on the 10th will bring people into your life who can support you. Libra – The full moon on the 24th in your personal ventures zone will help you to make a decision about where you go from here. It may be a good time to start something new. You have had to deal with delays and setbacks, to do with work. You do have the tenacity and organizational skills to follow through if that is what you decide. Friends and colleages are helpful to you and will assist you. Jupiter in contact with your sun makes you very optimistic. Scorpio – You have good influences in your career zone, and this is a good time for you to start any projects related to work. The full moon on the 24th will be in your home zone and gives you the chance to assess your situation and make adjustments if necessary. Towards the end of this month Jupiter the planet of good fortune will be in this part of your chart, so this is a great opportunity for you to get things exactly as you want them. 53

Sagittarius – This is going to be a very positive month for you, as Jupiter falls in your home zone till the 28th bringing a feeling of contentment and opening doors for you. Good communication makes for good relationships and you are candid and to the point with others in your circle of friends. A good time for travel and adventure is here, as you put new plans into place. A positive angle to Mercury after the 28th makes it very easy for you to negotiate. Capricorn – The new moon in your opposite zone of close partnerships on the 10th predicts new beginnings for you or a new alliance and this will benefit you both. You will focus on money and finances, and make any adjustments that you need to. The full moon falls in the finance zone of you chart on the 24th and this will make it a ripe time for decisions around budgets and about any future investments. Aquarius – You will want to relax as you are happy to find that hard work and discipline have paid off. You feel very confident and have the right kind of support to ensure your future plans work out. In your one to one relationship zone there are opportunities to make partnerships grow in a steady and fulfilling direction. You are appreciated by your colleagues. The full moon in your own sign on the 24th gives you a chance to tie up loose ends. Pisces – This is the right time for you to move forward Pisces, without hesitation or delay. The new moon on the 10th gives you the get up and go feeling, and the motivation to start up on something you have had to delay for some time. With Jupiter in your sign until the 28th you find the confidence you need to make things happen. Both Venus and Mars in your one to one relationship zone at the end of the month give you support from partners.

The year ahead for

cancer

At exactly 06.00am GMT on the 21st of June 2021, the sun enters the sign of Cancer and for all of you born with this sun sign, the following ingredients colour your year ahead. Modifications and adjustments need to be made according to your own specific time, date and place of birth which are personal only to you…. PERSONALITY – A new more out going and very sociable side to your nature will get you out and about, mixing with people, networking and making up for lost time. You find it easy to communicate and make new allies. You enjoy the company of others. LOVE – A very strong and determined side of your emotions makes you fight for what you believe in. You will want to start a new project and put a lot of energy into what you are doing. You also gain a real sense of self in a leadership role. You build from strength to strength and become happier in your close relationships. MONEY – Resourceful and energetic, very good links to career give you offers and opportunities. Your good luck linked with your charm just makes the best things happen, even better than you expected. You attract money and good fortune. GENERALLY – A year ahead that gives you confidence, you have the power and the ability to achieve a lot. You will be assertive and attractive; you are quite sure about where you are heading and you have success in all you do. A very fulfilling year ahead. 54

Lots of love and best of luck from Izabella Vlahavas

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Hello again, I can’t resist taking another look at this unusually large and potentially dangerous memorial that we were called to work on a few years back. This very grand and imposing memorial had actually been involved in a collision with a vehicle and was left teetering to the point that a good gust of wind may have pushed it over! A memorial this large and heavy falling to the ground would have been catastrophic – not to mention potentially deadly if someone was unfortunate enough to be walking by as it fell. We were called in to safely take it down and then re-fix it. After disassembling the memorial and parting all of the joints we found that the different sections were secured by copper dowels set in lead, a common practice a hundred or so years ago, but not nearly close to modern safety standards. This meant that we would not be able to simply re-assemble the memorial as it would have to be upgraded and refixed to comply with the British Standard BS8415 for memorial fixing. We also needed to ensure that if it was struck again by a vehicle in the future that it would not be able to fall. After preparing all of the joints we began to plan the re-fix using stainless steel dowels and cement to secure the joints. The sheer size of the his memorial meant that we had to take particular care during the planning stage. That extra care certainly paid off when the day came to re-fix the memorial, as the whole operation ran very smoothly and according to plan. The memorial will now likely be standing strong there for another hundred years or more!

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

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We Are Open. Ystradgynlais Library has reopened to the public after the last lockdown due to Covid 19 pandemic. We are open to borrowing books on a Monday and Thursday between 10am and 4pm and a Friday between 10am and 1pm for Order and Collect, return of books and browsing. We have computer access on a Tuesday which is bookable in one-hour slots by appointment 01639 845353. Order and Collect has been running since the start of the pandemic and if you feel that you do not want to come into the library just yet or are physically unable to or were previously a Powys Mobile library user you can request a collection of books to be delivered to your door by one of our volunteers. Or you can pick up a collection of books with your name on in the library foyer. You can call into the library on the days we are open if you require any photocopying. This also applies to children’s books. We are open on the first Saturday of the month for family browsing this needs to be booked in advance on 01639 845353. All returned books are placed in isolation for 72hrs and then disinfected before being put back on the shelves for future borrowing. We look forward to seeing you soon. Jan Poole 57

Branch Librarian

Worried about the continued Covid-19 lockdown? Concerned about future changes to restrictions and accessing your community? Are you looking for support, advice and reassurance?

PAVO Community Connectors will put you in touch with voluntary organisations and community groups who can support you. We will work with you to access the right local services, information and support to help improve your health and wellbeing.

01597 828649 Community.Connectors@pavo.org.uk @powysconnectors Credu supports Young and Adult Carers in the ways that matter to them. This can include: Practical information Emotional Support Financial support Groups and events Courses and training

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Need advice? Antonina is here to help! I am 22 weeks pregnant and this is my first baby…even though I am really excited about my baby I keep getting anxious about the pregnancy and how it is all going to be. My sister had a really horrendous birth which ended in a fonteuse delivery and she ended up being very ill after having her baby 6 months ago. She hasn’t been right since. I keep worrying the same thing might happen to me as my mother also had a difficult pregnancy. I think about this especially at night and the thoughts keep me awake and when I do get to sleep I wake up to go to the loo and then can’t get back to sleep. I end up scrolling through my phone messages until the early hours when I am exhausted and then fall asleep. I have terrible morning sickness, which I thought might have gone by now, I am finding it difficult to concentrate at work as well as at home. I worry about how I am going to cope with everything when the baby arrives. Is there anything you can suggest to help me through, so I don’t feel so anxious about it all?

Dear Jo, I always think how wonderful and special it is when a new life has been created. So congratulations! Yes, feelings can be mixed especially for a first time mum, and if we add the physical & hormonal changes which take place during pregnancy, it can at times feel overwhelming. The main thing is that you 1. Are as informed about the pregnancy as you can be by talking to the maternity health professionals, GP about your symptoms, medical history etc and 2. You look after yourself as much as you possibly can during this time in readiness for welcoming your baby into your world. The fact is that even though it is really good to speak to other women about their pregnancy everyone experiences things differently. It does not necessarily follow that you will have a difficult birth unless there is some genetic reasoning for it. Even then it still may not be the case. Many of the clients I see for hypnotherapy which are anxious tend to have un-useful thoughts which whirr around especially at night time. They complain of running over thoughts and conversations in their mind which cause them the lack of sleep, worry, exhaustion and concentration issues which you are experiencing. I work with them to learn to take back control and break the negative thought patterns, learn how to relax and have a good night’s rest. It is vitally important to feel fresh each day so that you can think straight, function well and relax into your pregnancy. I suggest getting into a sleep routine which allows you an optimum good night’s rest with no social media “pings” on phones and tablets e g no blue light. I can discuss further factors which may help to get you into the best sleep routine when you take up your free consultation. My mother’ s Spanish remedy is to use Linden flowers (known in Spain as Tila) which is a natural and herbal drink to help with unsettled stomachs and this has helped many women with morning sickness as well as anxiety, nerves etc. It tastes a bit like chamomile and is available in

health food shops and on-line. This can also be a really calming night-time drink. You may also be interested in my Pregnancy and Preparation for Birth course which I am running locally for pregnant women. You can take this up either individually or take part in group sessions and you will also get free audios to enhance your experience and use these whenever you want to as your birth date draws nearer. Although there is no one who can guarantee a pain free or an easy labour, the techniques you can learn are hypnotic relaxation & breathing techniques which are natural and aimed to: o Deeply relax your mind and body & connect with your baby o Focus positively and calmly on your pregnancy o Become more calm & confident as you prepare for the birth One course member recently quoted “this course gave me the confidence and breathing techniques to have an intervention-free labour and birth with my son, who was also my first baby, with only the birth pool as additional pain relief. I completed the last session on the day I went in to labour..” I look forward to speaking to you very soon. Antonina Please note letters are edited, name changed and paraphrased to ensure anonymity. Each month the author of the published letter will receive a free consultation with AMendola Hypnotherapy. Email your letters to antonina@communitymag.co.uk or write to the usual address.

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CHICKEN, BACON & ASPARAGUS PASTA

I’m always looking to use up leftover roast chicken, so dishes that are as easy to make as this one are most welcome come midweek. I use streaky bacon in this one. Valley Butchers in Ystalyfera prepare a thick cut streaky that is just perfect for making lardons, and I’ve used 4 here, but it’s worth remembering to up that to 6 or even 8 if you’re using supermarket bacon, as the VB rashers are very large and do not shrink during cooking. 250g Tagliatelle

INGREDIENTS (serves 3-4)

¼ tsp Ground Black Pepper

150g Fresh Asparagus, cut into 2cm pieces

1 pinch Smoked Paprika

75g Butter

60g Grated Parmesan (or GranaPadano etc.)

400ml Single Cream

200g Cooked Chicken

¼ Garlic Granules

4 Rashers Streaky Bacon, cut into lardons

Method Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to the boil and cook your tagliatelle (or whichever pasta you’re using) to your own liking, usually around 12 mins for me. For the last 4 or 5 mins add the asparagus. Remove from the heat, drain and set aside in a bowl. Shallow fry the lardons to a crispy brown, drain on kitchen paper. Set a large saucepan over a medium heat and add the cream and butter, stirring to combine. Cook this until it starts to thicken a little. Add the garlic granules, black pepper and paprika, cook out for a minute or two and taste to adjust the seasoning. Stir in the grated cheese, bacon and chicken and heat through. Pour the sauce over the pasta and asparagus and toss well to ensure it is coated through. Garnish with a few Parmesan shavings and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Phil 63

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Roy Cousins 07976 637 357

PLUMBING DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS www.neilshomeservices.co.uk RAL Plumbing Call Anthony on CARPETS 07890 500670 07813 822243 Benjamin Poole ELECTRICIANS ra.llewelyn@gmail.com 01269 824137 KDY Electrics ROOFING, SCAFFOLDING & 07768 061903 07971 861534 GENERAL BUILDING kdyelectrics@btinternet.com Glantawe Carpets S&A Builders, call Steve 01639 842522 S&D Domestic Electrics 07977 587 449 CHIMNEY SWEEP 07868 172990 01639 701 784 Tawe Sweep Choice.locks@icloud.com builderbrothers.co.uk 01639 415019 T.E. Hughes Electricals SCAFFOLDING 07552354726 01639 843826 WRK Scaffolding Ltd 07759 887395 Thomas Chimney Sweeps Rhys: 07930 182758 APICS & HETAS approved GARDENING SERVICES Wyndham: 07881 986160 sweep & Installer 3 Steps Gardening & info@wrk-scaffolding.com Call Gerry 07974 001133 Maintenance TAXIS Tom’s Chimney Sweep Service 07866 901911 IG’s Taxi Service Member Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps 01639 841827 Ystradgynlais based tomschimneysweepservice@hotmail.com 3steps4@gmail.com 07414 160 797 07754 083919 HEALTH & WELLBEING VOLUNTEERS WANTED Cristina’s Wellbeing Brecknock Wildlife Trust Chiropractic 01639 844273 01639 699573 07933 203166 07837208446 matt-harris@live.com

GUITAR TECH SERVICES Guitar Repairs & Maintenance Get The Best Out Of Your Instrument

Guitar Set Ups • String Changes • Fret Dressing • Servicing • Upgrades • Pick-ups Changed

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01639 699216 www.pearsonshomeimprovements.co.uk uPVC Windows & Doors Available Fully Fitted or Supply Only Call in and see us for your FREE quotation

All uPVC Repair work undertaken: Misted Units, Broken Locks/Hinges etc.

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Screws, Fixings, Hand Tools, Power Tools, Lubricants, Sealants and lots more Key Cutting Still Available

uPVC REPAIRS

Misted Units, Locks, Hinges, Handles etc. Repaired or replaced

Available Wednesday - Friday 9am - 5pm

Huge range of blanks for Yale and many other brands to suit doors, windows, caravans, padlocks, security boxes etc.

NEW SHOWROOM IS COMING SOON - WATCH THIS SPACE! find us opposite the entrance to ASDA Unit 7, Swansea Valley Business Park, Ystalyfera, SWANSEA, SA9 2EB

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