The Community Mag - November 21 by Phil Rowe

November 2021

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

Find us online at

www.communitymag.co.uk

07961 937238 E-mail: mail@communitymag.co.uk

photograph supplied by Carl Ryan, www.blackplanetphotography.com 1

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Editor’s Foreword Any regular readers will know only too well about my mistrust of the media. The recent nonsense with people panic buying petrol and diesel is a good case in point. The issue was created in its entirety by the mainstream media, who then proceeded to cover it for the next week with a butter wouldn’t melt look on their faces! Had the media not CAUSED the panic in the first place there would have been no shortage at all, and supply deliveries would have kept pace for 99% of the country. The same could be said of last year’s toilet paper fiasco. When operating in this way, the media organisations are clearly putting profits ahead of their social responsibilities. And that’s the point. There is nothing that actually REQUIRES our media to act in a socially responsible way. In the wrong hands (and they ARE in the wrong hands), they are free to influence society as they see fit. Obviously, any and all mass media is going to influence us in some way, and in itself that’s not the problem. The problem is when a small group of individuals control all our media and use it to influence us for the benefit of themselves and their favoured friends. Not only is it clearly a problem here, it has been for decades. The worst of it is that many people believe that we have a great free press that many countries would envy. The reality is quite the opposite; our media is now regarded as one of the worst in the world for imbalance and bias. Supposedly ‘hard-hitting’ interviews are often conducted between old school chums, fellow political members and even relatives. The truth of it is that many of us believe we have a free press that is the envy of the world because they’ve been told that by… the press!! We now appear to be in a situation where Covid is still a massive and on-going problem, yet the media are doing all they can to convince everyone that they need to get to the shops NOW!! I just don’t buy it. Well, not all of it. There are, undoubtedly, problems in the supply chain. I very much doubt that, under any serious analysis, the way to alleviate that is to put as much pressure on the supply chain as we can. That is currently the course of action that the media would have us take. The latest crisis story is that we are now running out of warehouse space. So, in a nutshell, we are in a crisis because we cannot get the products out of the warehouses to be delivered, which is a problem because they have more products coming in that they can’t store or deliver. If ever there was a clearer example of an unhealthy, broken system, I can’t think what it is. The entire universe seems to be giving us extremely heavy hints to stop what we’re doing, and our supposedly great minds are determinedly ignoring it. Why? Because they will always want more. Our entire system is set up to serve people with a giant character flaw – greed. I’m not saying that, realistically, we all stop everything and begin to live like monks, but maybe a good start would be to show a little restraint when the next ‘problem’ is highlighted by our lying media.

Phil

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 DECEMBER 2021 EDITION - NOVEMBER 15th 3

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REMEMBRANCE DAY PARADE 2021 It will soon be time to hold our annual parade in remembrance of those who made the supreme sacrifice for our country. This year’s parade will take place on

Sunday 14th November. Due to the coronavirus restrictions there will be no church service so we will assemble in the Welfare Hall, Ystradgynlais, at 10.30hrs. The parade will then set off at 10.40hrs marching through the cross to the cenotaph for a service and laying of wreaths at 11.00hrs. We will also be holding a short service with two minutes silence and Last Post on the cross at 11.00hrs on Thursday 11th November 2021. All welcomed.

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ACROSS

1. Sounds like a panel on a ship (6) 3. Discovers escapism in poetry (6) 8. Found small ardent duck (7) 10. Something huge in Belgian town (5) 11. Turn stone into music (5) 12. Perfect notion, end of April (5) 13. Discover bunk in slumber theory (5) 15. Found a Greek letter on the table (5) 20. Instrument detects in ultra dark (5) 22. Courage shown in mariner venture (5) 24. Austere at the rear of a ship? (5) 25. Jumbled and unfathomable as my lab (7) 26. Main course in garden tree house (6) 27. Seaside tourist finds roundabout way (6)

Answers on page 66

DOWN

1. Edible nut contained in meal, Monday (6) 2. Young nocturnal creature in meadow, let out (5) 4. Bird under par on a golf course (5) 5. Evidence of injury allowed redness (7) 6. Was seated with vase, out of this world (6) 7. Confess and let in (5) 9. Something of value, sounds like a complete collection (5) 14. Sincere sense organ and bird shelter (7) 16. Useful set of cards at the end of the day (5) 17. Has slept despite some bother (6) 18. City found tour banned (5) 19. Sounds like an underground vendor (6) 21. Steps taken in Bermudan ceremony (5) 23. Character Italian city, beginning of October (5) 7

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GRAZING COWS TO SAVE RARE BUTTERFLIES

Cattle have returned to Crynant’s Rhos Common this year for the autumn season. Butterfly Conservation, PONT Cymru, Natural Resources Wales and Neath Port Talbot Council’s Countryside and Wildlife Team have been working together with local farmers to enable cattle to graze on the common once again. This will benefit local wildlife and reduce hazards such as grass fires and flooding. Grazing will help to better maintain the purple moor grass and rush pasture habitat of the common. This will benefit the rare Marsh Fritillary butterfly. This is a threatened European species declining rapidly in the UK. However, the butterfly has a stronghold in the Ystradgynlais and surrounding area and conservationists are working hard to preserve the populations. Allowing cattle to graze the land will also reduce the potential fire load and hence the risk of deliberate grass fires. It will also improve the ability of the common to hold water, helping to reduce flooding during periods of wet weather. Councillor Annette Wingrave, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Sustainable Development, said: “We at Neath Port Talbot Council are really pleased to support this project. By enabling the cattle to graze safely on the common, we are protecting the habitat that is needed for the rare Marsh Fritillary butterfly to survive.” Dai Rees, Head of Conservation for Butterfly Conservation Wales said: ‘’It’s fantastic to see cattle back once again which will benefit Marsh Fritillaries, local wildlife and local communities. Working together in partnership brings many rewards and I look forward to seeing the positive results in the future. ’’ Karl Hopkins, secretary of the Rhos Commoners Association said: “This is great news for graziers of common land, enabling safer grazing. Grazing the commons is important to support biodiversity and help combat climate change in Wales.”. Cattle have now returned to the common. Livestock may be near to the road and motorists are being advised to take due care and caution when cattle are on the common. For ALL Your Plumbing & Heating Requirements

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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.

If you need our help we can be contacted on 07923 986379 or via our Facebook page, or just call in to the Chapel during our opening hours on a Monday, Wednesday or Friday.

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DRIVER THEORY REFRESHER WORKSHOPS AVAILABLE FOR MATURE DRIVERS

Are you aged over 65 and living in Powys? Mature drivers are being given the opportunity to revise and improve their road knowledge by taking advantage of a free, online driver theory course, organised by the county council. Powys County Council’s Road Safety Unit will be holding its Driver Theory Refresher workshop on the following days: Wednesday 17 November 2021 Wednesday 15 December 2021 The course is a two hour, online informal workshop designed to update your knowledge of the road in an ever-changing environment, thus helping improve your driving skills and keep you driving safely. The course includes ‘The Fatal Five’; what to do when encountering vulnerable road users such as motor and pedal cyclists, and equestrians, eyesight requirements, medication and alcohol laws, what to do in the event of an accident, and much more. Attendees will also be given information and contact details about going on one of the free, one hour ‘Drive-On’ assessments with a local ADI (Advanced Driving Instructor). Cllr Heulwen Hulme, Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “Ensuring that our roads are safe is hugely important for our county. I would urge mature drivers across Powys to take advantage of this fantastic scheme. These free workshops are so important because they will refresh and update essential driving skills and could ultimately help save lives.” For more information and to book a place on our up-and-coming courses, please contact Miranda Capecchi, Road Safety Project Officer on: Phone: 01597 82 6924 Email: miranda.capecchi1@powys.gov.uk

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NEW CAMPAIGN CALLS ON DOG OWNERS TO ‘LEAVE ONLY PAW PRINTS’

Powys County Council is urging dog owners to do the right thing and pick up after their pets as part of a new national campaign from Keep Wales Tidy. Although an estimated nine out of ten dog owners pick up after their pets, dog poo remains a persistent issue in communities across the country. Keep Wales Tidy’s campaign aims to raise awareness of the health risks associated with dog poo; not just for humans but also for livestock and other pets. Dog poo that’s left behind can carry harmful bacteria which can remain in soil long after it has decomposed. The nationwide campaign is being run as part of Caru Cymru (a Welsh phrase meaning ‘Love Wales’) - an inclusive movement led by Keep Wales Tidy and local authorities to inspire people to take action and care for the environment. Based on research by behaviour change experts, bright pink signs, posters, pawprint stencils and bin stickers will be appearing across Powys to ‘nudge’ people into making the right decision. “Dog mess is the most unacceptable and offensive type of litter on our streets and open spaces and feedback from Powys residents tells us that dog fouling is the issue the public are most concerned about.” explains Cllr Heulwen Hulme, Powys County Council Cabinet Member for Environment. “Our waste awareness and enforcement team are busy out and about adding signs and engaging with dog owners, whilst our street cleaners are doing their best to clean up after the irresponsible few who refuse to take responsibility for their own pets.” Keep Wales Tidy Chief Executive Lesley Jones said: “We’re excited to be launching this important campaign with our local authority partners. As a nation of dog lovers, we should all be aware that dog poo isn’t just an unpleasant mess, it can be dangerous. “We’re urging the small minority of irresponsible dog owners to do the right thing. By not picking up after your dog, you could be putting people, livestock, and our beloved pets at risk. Please bag it, bin it and leave only pawprints when you’re out and about.” People in Powys and across Wales are being encouraged to join the new campaign. Visit Keep Wales Tidy’s website to find out more and download free materials: www.keepwalestidy.cymru/caru-cymru

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Y S T R A D GY N L A I S C O M M U N I T Y R E C YC L I N G We work with our communities to value the importance of the three ‘rs’ to protect our environment - Reduce, Reuse and Recycle   

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Books, DVDs, CDs and vinyl

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CLOTHES

We accept a variety of cookware, tableware and ornaments.

We accept a variety of good quality clothing, shoes, boots, bedding and curtains .

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Ystradgynlais Foodbank Thank you to all of our generous donors, we are very grateful for your continued support. If you would like to make a donation, non perishable food donations and toiletries, are always welcome. We have food collection bins in the following shops:Cwmllynfell Post Office, Penrhos Premier and Best One Ystradgynlais. Monetary donations can be made via:Paypal at yvcoutreach@gmail.com

Bank transfer to: Barclays bank Sort Code 20 84 41 Account 83249751 Just Giving:- https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/feedthelocalcommunity Facebook:- https://www.facebook.cpm/ystradgynlaisfoodbank/ Giveasyoulive.com:- https://www.giveasyoulive.com/join/ystradfoodbank Please contact us on 01638 845 475 for more details.

Ystradgynlais Volunteer Centre / Ystradgynlais Community Recycling / Ystradgynlais Foodbank

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

REMINDER – NATASHA’S LAW NOW IN FORCE

Neath Port Talbot Council’s Trading Standards Team is reminding businesses and residents a new law on food labelling that came into effect on Friday, October 1st to help protect the estimated two million plus people living with a diagnosed food allergy in the UK. The UK Food Information Amendment, known as Natasha’s Law, which requires more pre-packaged food such as takeaway sandwiches and salads to have their full ingredients listed is now being enacted in Wales, England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. It means significant changes for labelling of food pre-packed for direct sale (PPDS). PPDS is food which is packaged at the same place it is offered or sold to consumers and is in this packaging before it is ordered or selected. It can include food that consumers select themselves (e.g. from a display unit), as well as products kept behind a counter and some food sold at mobile or temporary outlets. The law is named after the late Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, who suffered a fatal allergic reaction aged just 15 after eating an “artichoke, olive and tapenade” baguette purchased at Pret a Manger in an airport while preparing for a holiday flight. Natasha had a sesame allergy but wasn’t aware that sesame seeds had been pre-baked into the bread. Any food business selling PPDS food will now be required to label it with the name of the food and full list of ingredients with allergenic ingredients emphasised within the list. Nathan Barnhouse, director of the Food Standards Agency in Wales said: “Food hypersensitivity is a priority for the FSA and our ambition is for the UK to become the best place in the world for people living with food hypersensitivities. “The changes to labelling requirements for prepacked for direct sale (PPDS) food are a huge milestone for people living with food allergies and will help protect them by providing potentially life-saving allergen information on the packaging.” Further information on Natasha’s Law is available here: https://www.food.gov.uk/allergen-labellingchanges-for-prepacked-for-direct-sale-ppds-food

Ystradgynlais Volunteer Centre We are looking for Trustees to join our team. Are you interested in being involved in your local community and can you spare a few hours a month? Ystradgynlais Volunteer Centre is looking for people to become Trustees and to help set the vision and strategy for the Centre's future. You will be joining at a very exciting time as YVC is starting many large scale projects from a brand new cafe and garden, through to a full curriculum of certificated and leisure courses and workshops. These are all designed to help and be helped by the community to take care of its members.

We welcome anyone with skills to offer - but mainly we welcome people who want to get involved and join our dedicated team. If you are interested and for more information contact ali.rodwell@gmail.com

Ystradgynlais Volunteer Centre / Ystradgynlais Community Recycling / Ystradgynlais Foodbank

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

COMMUNITIES FOR WORK+ PARTICIPANT SECURES JOB AS AN HGV DRIVER

A Powys resident has found work after being supported by the Communities for Work+ (CfW+) project, a scheme run by the regeneration team at Powys County Council, to help people into work. After losing his job at a local factory during the first lockdown, north Powys resident, Rob, contacted the Communities for Work+ team for some support in finding another job. Following discussions with Matt, one of the CfW+ Employment Mentors and Alice, the CfW+ Employer Liaison Officer, Rob was able to identify the types of employment he would like to pursue, what training he may need, explore the job opportunities available in his local area and get some advice on improving his CV. Having recently become a new dad, it was important to consider Robs career aspirations of joining the ambulance service, with appropriate training needs and his ability to gain valuable work experience, whilst still supporting his young family. With the help of the team, Rob decided that getting an HGV licence would allow him to ultimately follow a career into the emergency services and increase his employment opportunities in the meantime. As a result, Rob was enrolled onto an HGV training course, and he applied to the DVLA for his licence. Having successfully passed his HGV driving test, Rob is now utilising his new skills by currently working with Powys County Council’s waste and recycling team. “Thank you so much for all the work you put in to get me the training.” says Rob. “It means so much to me and my family. We are so very grateful.” Councillor Iain McIntosh, Powys County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Housing, Planning and Economic Regeneration, said: “It is fantastic to hear about how Rob has been able to benefit from the support of the CfW+ project. “Run by the council’s regeneration team, the CfW+ project specifically helps Powys residents aged 16 or over, who are either unemployed or in low paid work, improve their chances of gaining employment in Powys. The experienced team can offer specialist one to one support alongside bespoke training opportunities, to help develop essential practical skills and improve your chances of finding employment. “Rob is one of many individuals who have already benefited from the project, and I wish him, and all the others, every success in the future”. If you would like to find out more about the project, visit: www.powys.gov.uk/cfw or email: jobsupport@powys.gov.uk

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1 YEAR ON AND STILL GOING STRONG

It’s certainly been an eventful year for all of us! Pearson’s Tool Shed opened a year ago this month with just a few lines so that local people could pick up some of their hardware needs without having to travel down to Swansea etc. Since then we have been quietly expanding our lines week by week to allow everyone in the community to shop local and stay safe away from the large crowds as much as possible. We would like to thank all of our customers for their support over the past year and hope to continue to serve the community for many years to come. Many new customers are surprised with our range of stock and we are constantly adding to our range. Call in and see, get full details on any of the offers below and pick up a catalogue for the full Christmas range of gifts, tools etc. You’ll find us near the entrance to Asda Ystalyfera in Unit 7 at Swansea Valley Business Park, or you could always give us a ring on 01639 699216. IRWIN ‘MARPLES’ 8 PIECE CHISEL SET .99

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NPT WELFARE RIGHTS TEAM - THERE TO HELP Despite the restrictions on being able to meet with people in person, Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council’s Welfare Rights Team has continued to provide vital support and guidance to benefit

claimants throughout the county borough. Find out how the Welfare Rights Team can help you with: • • • •

Benefit entitlement advice Assisting to complete benefit forms General support and guidance over the phone Challenging a benefit decision

The Team also consists of dedicated Macmillan Benefit Advisors who support cancer patients and their families with their benefits, providing similar benefits advice, as well as Macmillan Grants, and Blue Badge applications solely for cancer patients with severe mobility problems. The Welfare Rights Team can be contacted on 01639 685225 (Monday to Friday), please leave a message and an advisor will contact you as soon as possible; alternatively email the Team at welfarerights@npt.gov.uk 37

LIVE MUSIC FOR NOVEMBER Godre’rGraig WMC

GAIL HILL

Sun 7th

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THE THRILLIONAIRES

Sat 13th

Godre’rGraig WMC

TWO TONE PETE

Sun 14th 5.00pm

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THE SOMETHINGS

Sat 20th

Godre’rGraig WMC

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Sun 21st 5.00pm

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Sat 27th

Godre’rGraig WMC KEITH DAVID COMEDY

Sun 28th 5.00pm

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Sat 6th 5.00pm

THE BAD THINGS

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A NEW campaign launched by the National Adoption Service for Wales hopes to encourage more people to adopt those children waiting the longest.

There are 119 children currently waiting to be adopted in Wales, with 29 of those children waiting for nine months or more. For boys, sibling groups, children over three, and those with complex early histories, the wait to find a forever home can last a long time. But a new campaign launched during National Adoption Week (18th-23rd October) wants to change all that by debunking the myth that babies and girls are easier to adopt. To open the hearts and minds of potential adopters to those children currently waiting to find a family, #ChooseFamily will hear from parents across Wales about the realities of adopting a child, regardless of their age, sex, or if they are part of a sibling group. Single mum Natasha adopted through Adoption Mid and West Wales in 2014. With an open mind, Tasha, researched adoption thoroughly before she began the process alone. Tasha, who is a teacher, adopted siblings of Thai heritage – a three-year-old daughter and a 20-month-old boy – because she knew that boys, minority ethnic children and siblings typically wait the longest to be adopted. She said: “It is made clear very early on that all adopted children will manifest their trauma in one way or another at some point in their life. Some of this you are prepared for, other times it can catch you completely off guard.” “My daughter was the more anxious and hypersensitive of my two children. I think that because she was older when she went into care she has more of a recollection of neglect. My family knew to be more cautious and to give her extra reassurance when it was dark or there were loud noises - but one thing we didn’t prepare for is how petrified she was of balloons and anyone singing Happy Birthday. “She couldn’t tell us why, but she was storing a memory we can only speculate about. It caused her to freeze and cry or come running to cling onto me. Other parents would ask why I insisted on bringing her along to parties, but I didn’t want her to miss out or have to ask the class not to celebrate birthdays, so we worked together over time to help her find coping strategies. Now, she has been to a few birthday sleepovers and will get up dancing at holiday kids’ club - she’s come a long way.” “I remember having a friendly debate with a social worker about interracial adoption and feeling strongly about not letting the difference in our skin colour be a barrier. I was challenged on this as the social worker pointed out that I wouldn’t be the one growing up different. “In many ways she was right, and thankfully, we have navigated the conversations about our differences easily. We have multi-ethnic friends and he often likes to point out when I am the odd one out in the car or on family holidays. “The world is made up of so many different families and society and adoption have caught up with each other. Not only did that make it easier for me as a single person to adopt, having examples to show how the nuclear family is varied is helping my son to understand that everyone is different. Just the other day he asked me when he was getting a dad, because everyone has one. When we revisited the story of his birth father and started going through the list of family and friends who were unmarried, had lost partners or are in same sex couples, he wasn’t so concerned that it was just the three of us.” Suzanne Griffiths, Director of the National Adoption Service for Wales, said: “We know from research conducted within adoption services in Wales that myths in relation to age and gender continue to exist; some prospective adopters believe that younger children present with fewer issues and others feel that girls are easier to care for. “This is not always the case as all children have different needs and experiences and often the quieter child can be harder to work with. “Sometimes we know less about the experiences of a younger child whereas we might have more detailed knowledge where an older child is concerned. For these older children we are often in a better position to predict any future support needs should they require it.” National Adoption Service is asking for people to share the moments that made their family @nas_cymru #ChooseFamily to encourage others to choose to adopt. For more information about adoption, visit adoptionmwwales.org.uk

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

What was Google’s failed self-driving car called? What old fashioned device is now back in use to stop info being hacked? Which disease is caused by too much uric acid in body? In which year was the last Celebrity Big Brother held? Which Welsh town was evacuating all students due to the weather 2013/14? Who played Nora Batty in ‘Last Of The Summer Wine’? Who were the first football team to win the FA cup at Wembley? What nationality was Cleopatra? Who operated ‘Spit The Dog’? How many cents in a dime? How many no1’s did The Carpenters have in the UK? Who directed the ‘Star Wars’ films? Which religious program did Harry Secombe host? In which holiday region is Benidorm? What is the currency of South Africa? Who was murdered in 1882 by his cousin Robert Ford? In the TV comedy ‘Rising Damp’ what was the of Rigsby’s cat? At what RPM did a vinyl LP run? What is a female swan called? Who had a hit with ‘You’re So Vain’? How many years marrage is your leather wedding anniversary? What name is given to the last person in a tug of war team? What did God create on the 6th day? Edgbaston cricket ground is in which city? Name Scotland’s biggest lake? Whom did Madonna marry in Scotland on 22nd december 2000? What was the former name of Thailand? In which decade did the Big Issue go on sale? In which year did man last walk on the moon? ‘I’m a jerk but listen’ is an anagram of which famous singer/actor’s name?

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

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VISITOR: COAL TIT WELSH NAME: TITW PENDDU At only 8-10g in weight, the coal tit is the smallest of the British tits. The appearance of this tiny little fellow is a sure sign that summer is over and autumn is well and truly under way. The speed with which they dash in and away to your feeder is breathtaking, and you’ll have to be pretty determined to get a good look at one, let alone a decent photo! Unlike most birds, which will peck at seeds to break them up and swallow them, coal tits will grab them up whole and steal them away to deal with them out of sight or stash them somewhere for later consumption, often returning every minute or so to grab more. This avoids competition from some of the bigger birds at the feeder. While conifer forestries are often frowned upon by many, the coat tit thrives in areas that have nearby plantations. Being so small and agile, they feed in the upper branchers, often with gymnastic feats; hanging upside down to reach their food etc. Their favoured foods are seeds from the beech or sitka spruce trees, and if these fall into short supply then you are likely to see an increase of coal tits to your garden feeders. Their appearance is quite distinctive; a small black head with white cheeks and a white stripe down the nape. A distinctive white double wing bar is actually made up of separate spots that can be seen when viewed up close. They have a buff coloured underside and are olive grey on the back. To attract them to your feeder use small seeds like sunflower hearts or peanuts in a mesh feeder. They also feed on insects and spiders.

FAVOURITE FACT:

With an average lifespan of 2 years, the oldest recorded is 8yrs and 9 months 49

HOW TO SAVE MONEY ON THAT NEW GUITAR

If you’re buying a guitar as a gift this Christmas, but are unsure on what to buy, ring Paul who will happily advise you on your best options for your budget. Years ago buying a guitar was a very, very hands on experience. Many were hand finished, which meant that two guitars were never quite the same and, regardless of price, if you were unlucky you could end up with something that was difficult to play for any number of reasons. The biggest problem with this was that cheap guitars were often practically unplayable for any length of time. As a young musician, me and all of my friends lusted after high end, expensive, big name guitars. They were out of the question for most of us. A bad guitar could make the difference on whether a learner grew and kept a passion for their instrument or not. These days it’s still possible to buy a bad guitar. The difference is that it’s not just one or two out of a batch, it can be an entire range of cheaply produced instruments (although it’s fair to say that a cheap guitar these days is normally a hundred times better than it’s older equivalent). If you’re planning on buying a guitar for a gift or for yourself, you now have options that were simply unaffordable years ago. Buying a cheap guitar off the net is now a valid option taken up even by seasoned guitarists, because they know that getting them professionally set up can offer them an instrument that plays as nicely as something much, much more expensive. Guitar Tech Services can offer you all levels of service on a new guitar at great rates. Starting with a standard ‘set up’ your new guitar will be visually inspected to ensure there is no major problem, electrics are checked, then the strings removed for the fretboard to get a proper polish, clean and oiling. New strings are fitted and adjustments are made to the truss rod, nut, string height and intonation until the instrument plays as well as it possibly can. If, upon inspection, the fretboard is uneven, or suffers ‘high spots’, you can opt to have the frets to levelled, re-crowned and then finished and highly polished for the best possible feel when playing the instrument. A standard set up is also included in this process. By using Guitar Tech Services in conjunction with your purchase, you can be sure that the instrument you buy will be a joy to play and afford the learner the best possible of developing a love for the instrument. Just remember to move quickly if you want your instrument professionally set up and returned in time for Christmas!

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for NOVEMBER 2021 by Izabella Vlahavas

Aries – The full moon on the 19th is a partial lunar eclipse and falls in your money zone, a new beginning which gives you the chance to invest in something which is important to you. Mars makes you assertive in the part of your chart which has to do with inheritances and shared money, so you will find you can get ahead of things and make solid plans. Friendships and close allies give you full support and bolster up your confidence and belief in yourself, as also help to open up new opportunities. Taurus – The new moon on the 4th is in your close partnership zone and gives you the chance for a new beginning or a negotiation of a contract that needs to be renewed and brought up to date. With Uranus in your own sign you are making unexpected decisions and looking for adventure. You will be drawn towards new ideas, taking you out of your comfort zone. Jupiter the planet of good luck is in your career zone and this will propel you forwards making any new ideas you suggest very workable and viable. Gemini – A great time for enthusiasm and for hard work, routines and getting things done. You don’t want to leave loose ends or let your in-tray pile up. You will get others on board, socializing and getting involved with networking which helps make you even more efficient. You are keen to make firm connections that will benefit you and your new allies. The new moon in the daily routines and health section of your chart puts you in the right frame of mind to try new things. Exercise, yoga and diets may be top of these lists. Cancer – The full moon in your friendship zone on the 19th is a partial lunar eclipse and will highlight new possibilities and contacts to your social calendar. New possibilities both to do with fun and to do with business are on the cards. You will feel your groups of friends grow larger and more interesting. Either from close family or someone who cares deeply about you, expect a surprise that will give you many options and expand your life and the way you have been living up till now. This can include travel, social life or lifestyle. Probably a combination of these. Leo – Changes at work or a shift in career will work well for you. You need a new challenge and you have all the right skills to make things happen. The full moon in this part of your chart on the 19th is a partial solar eclipse and will be particularly motivating. A lot of help, moral support and encouragement from close partnerships, both in love and in business. You can lean on people and trust they have your best interests at heart. Practical advice will be very useful. The new moon on the 4th falls in your home zone and will feel like the start of something new, either a new arrangement or some different boundaries that fit in with your current needs both emotional and physical. Virgo – You are very sure of yourself and have strong opinions that you want to share. The new moon in the communication zone of your chart on the 4th will give you the incentive to start up a new project. It will be easy for you to convince others and get things started. A lot of hard work and the enthusiasm you find to meet deadlines will be noticed as other people start to look up to you more. A windfall from a possible travel plan on the 19th gives you the means to make an investment you have been thinking about. Libra – Mercury in your own sign till the 24th gives the ability to make your points of view very clear. You will not compromise on decisions. The new moon is in your money zone on the 4th and gives you the right head space to deal with budgets, plans for the future and savings. You will think carefully and make positive plans. A surprise from a possible inheritance on or around the 19th puts you in a better position to think long term and put money into deals. Generally, a very good time to make demands and get results through negotiations. Scorpio – You have a new moon in your own sign on the 4th and this is your birthday month, so new resolutions, new beginnings and a lot of enthusiasm about future plans are all on the cards. Mars in your own sign makes you assertive and eager to get on with things. You find plenty to do and lots of interested 53

friends and allies. The lucky planet of Jupiter is in your home zone making home improvements a possibility but more importantly giving you a warm nurturing space to recuperate in. Sagittarius – Venus enters your money zone on the 5th making you less worried about finances, giving you the confidence you need to be able to settle things the way you want to. The turbulence in this part of your life is ebbing slowly and you are getting your mojo back. In your house of health, daily routines and exercise there will be a full moon on the 19th which is a partial lunar eclipse giving it more strength and making you spread your wings, enlarge your ideas and the need to do more. You will be interested in health regimes and want to try out how best to fill your day with productive, lucrative time management. Capricorn – The new moon on the 4th falls in your friendship zone and this is great news, as a large part of your personality is to do with being recognized by others and socializing in a way that adds to new possibilities. By making contacts and expanding your networking, you will make and find new possibilities. It will give you a busy time ahead with a full calendar of invitations. Venus in your own sign from the 5th of this month gives you sex appeal and an added attractiveness that will get you noticed. Aquarius – The full moon in your home zone on the 19th which is a partial lunar eclipse means you can draw a line under your worries and preoccupations around the future. Something will happen out of the blue that gives you security and some of the things you have planned towards become obtainable. It is a very good time to move on to better things. Jupiter in your own sign adds opportunity and Saturn in your own sign gives you the patience and tenacity to get things running smoothly. Pisces – Neptune in your own sign has given you some surpriSes, although some not exactly what you wished for. It has also enabled you to look more deeply into the purpose of your life and relationships that are very important to you. The new moon in your travel zone on the 4th is the start of a good time to reflect with fresh energy and a new outlook. You’re motivated to expand your world, and enjoy new things. You can put a lot of the difficulties behind you and move into much better brighter days ahead.

The year ahead for

SCORPIO

At exactly 0600 am GMT on the 23rd October 2021 the sun enters the sign of Scorpio and for all of you born under this sun sign the following ingredients will colour your year ahead. Adjustments and modifications need to be made according to your own specific time, date and place of birth which are individual only to you. PERSONALITY – A very charming diplomatic side of your character will be the first thing people notice about you, and you will smile more than usual and show understanding and diplomacy. This works in your favour. Your individual pursuits and assertiveness are out in the open, and you will be straightforward about plans. LOVE – You are stubborn and persistent when it comes to love and you are very good at taking your time, motivated by the certainty of success. Things in your personal life transform and blossom as you find a partner who has similar objectives to you. MONEY – Lucky Jupiter, the planet that opens up opportunities gives you the ability to begin a project that means a lot to you on a personal level, either to do with something you believe in or a humanitarian helpline for those in need. This will make money for you but the actual success is more emotional, than practical. GENERALLY – A year ahead that looks busy with plenty of interests and high energy to push you forward with your ideas. You will have the forcefulness and the charm you need to make things happen in the way you want, for the best possible results. 54

Lots of love and best of luck from Izabella Vlahavas

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CHIPS £1.50 £2.20 £2.50 CHIP BUTTY £2.00 £2.50 FISH £4.20 FISH BITE £1.80 COD ROE (2) £2.50 SCAMPI (6) £2.50 (12) £4.50 SAUSAGE 90p £1.50 SAUSAGE IN BATTER £1.00 £1.60 SAVELOY £1.60 FISHCAKE £1.60 CORNED BEEF RISSOLE £1.60 BURGER IN BATTER £2.20 TURKEY STICK £1.80 CHICKEN & MUSHROOM PIE £2.30 MINCE BEEF & ONION PIE £2.30 STEAK & KIDNEY PIE £2.30 STEAK PIE £2.30 CHICKEN BALTI PIE £2.30 CORNED BEEF PASTY £1.80 CHICKEN TIKKA PASTY £1.80 SAUSAGE ROLL £1.80 CHICKEN BREAST £3.50

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All meals include a drink & chips Please choose one item from below

SAUSAGE / SAUSAGE IN BATTER CHICKEN NUGGETS (3) / CHEESE BEANS / GRAVY / CURRY

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500ml BOTTLES 330ml CANS WATER / FRUIT SHOOTS CHILDREN’S POP

QUORN SOUTHERN FRIED BITES £2.50 QUORN CHICKEN NUGGETS £2.00 VEGGIE MASALA PIE £2.30 CHEESE & ONION PASTY £1.80 CHEESE & ONION FRY £1.50 VEGGIE SAUSAGE PLAIN OR BATTERED £1.00 MUSHY PEA FRITTERS (2) £2.00 PINEAPPLE FRITTERS £2.00 ONION RINGS £1.80 1/4 VEGGIE BURGER £3.00 £4.00

OUR CURRY AND GRAVY SAUCE IS SUITABLE FOR VEGETARIANS

Small Large FAGGOTS, PEAS & GRAVY £3.50 FAGGOTS, PEAS, CHIPS & GRAVY £4.20 CHICKEN CURRY, RICE & CHIPS £4.50 £5.50 CHEESE & CHIPS £2.80 £3.30 CHEESE, CHIPS & BEANS £3.50 £4.20 EGG (2) & CHIPS £2.80 ADD - SAUSAGE/BACON/FRIED ONIONS 90p each

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Small Large CURRY / GRAVY / BEANS £1.70 £3.00 MUSHY PEAS / CHEESE £1.70 £3.00 POTATO FRITTERS 80p MUSHY PEA FRITTERS (2) £2.00 PINEAPPLE FRITTERS (2) £2.00 CHICKEN BITES (6) £2.50 CHICKEN NUGGETS (6) £2.00 ONION RINGS (6) £1.80

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The Wonderful New Album

A beautiful new collection of original acoustic guitar music and new Welsh poetry Available to download from:

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‘Dychweliad y Barcud Coch/The Return of the Red Kite’ 57

also available for streaming/purchase on iTunes, Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, Amazon, Tidal etc.

THE PIZZA PLACE 4 Capitol Buildings, Ystradgynlais SA9 2JS

01639 849024 HOUSE SPECIALS

MARGARITA - A traditional pizza base made to our own recipe, topped with a generous 7” £2.70

portion of tomato sauce and covered with Mozzarella cheese then lightly dusted with oregano herb for that Mediterranean taste.

SEAFOOD SPECIAL - A delicious pizza made with Tuna, Prawns and garnished with chopped Onions.

9” £5.00

12” £7.20

7” £3.90 9” £7.10 12” £10.20

MEXICANA - A spicy hot pizza made with Onions, Sweetcorn, Spicy Beef and Salami. Fresh 7” £4.40 green chilli are an optional extra.

HAWAIIAN - The taste of the tropics, a very popular pizza made with chopped Ham and

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chunks of Pineapple.

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VEGETARIAN - A delicious pizza topped with Onion, Mushroom, Mixed Peppers and

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MEAT TREAT - A real meaty treat for the non-vegetarian. Lots of Spicy Beef topped with

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SPICY CHICKEN with PEPPERONI - Just as it says, slices of Spiced Chicken topped with

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Sweetcorn.

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MEDITERRANEAN LAMB - A delicious pizza made with Onions, Sweetcorn then spread with 7” £4.40 oven-cooked minced Lamb seasoned with Mediterranean Herbs then topped with Cherry Tomatoes.

CHOCOLATE PIZZA - That’s right, a pizza that is made using Chocolate Spread instead of

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12” £9.20

9” £7.30 12” £10.20

7” £3.50

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CREATE YOUR OWN PIZZA

Choose a few toppings from the list below then simply add to the Margarita size of your choice. 40p each for a small pizza

HAM SALAMI OLIVES TOMATOES MIXED PEPPERS SMOKY BACON BITS

70p each for a medium pizza

ONIONS TUNA LAMB PRAWNS SPICED CHICKEN

£1.00 each for a large pizza

SWEETCORN PINEAPPLE SPICY BEEF EXTRA CHEESE ANCHOVIES SPICY PORK MEATBALLS

PEPPERONI CHICKEN MUSHROOMS SARDINES

If you would prefer a DEEP PAN pizza then please add an extra :£1.30 for the medium pizza £1.60 for the large pizza SOFT DRINKS Diet / Coke (cans)....................£1.00 Orange Fanta (cans) ................£1.00 Water.........................................£0.50

SIDE ORDERS Garlic Bread .............................£2.00 Garlic Mayonnaise...................£1.00 with Cheese ..............................£3.00 Sweet Chilli Dip.......................£1.00

Need advice? Antonina is here to help!

Dear Antonina I have been living with sciatica (diagnosed by my doctor) during pregnancy and it’s worse now since I had my little boy 2 years ago…. the pain in my lower back and leg comes and goes. Before I had my lovely little boy, I used to be in the gym all the time and go out with my friends, but I don’t seem to have any time for me anymore. My husband works nights and I feel as if I am on my own worrying about how I am going to cope. I live with this pain which stops me sleeping and am so stressed, because I feel really down… not enjoying my life right now and am no fun to be around for my family or friends. Then I don’t feel like seeing anyone to meet up. I feel that I can’t cope and wonder if I am going to have to live with this for ever, or if it’s something more serious? I worry how I am going to do my job which is sitting at home on my computer. I don’t want to take any more pain killers, which is why I haven’t rung the doctor, as they bloat me up and make me feel very sick. I wondered if hypnotherapy may be worth a try? Alice Dear Alice I am sorry to hear that you are in so much pain and it is no wonder that you are feeling so fed up. Being in pain is draining, stressful and well known to impact on your mood. This effects so many women during and after pregnancy, so you are not alone. Current reports show that sciatica in pregnancy affects up to ¾ women. You probably already know that this results from your growing baby and expanding uterus putting pressure on your sciatic nerve. The nerve can cause inflammation, irritation, and pain and results in shooting pains that start in your lower back and radiate down your legs. Most people recover from sciatica using different methods such as massage, using cold and heat packs, essential oils and yoga/exercise stretches. I am not sure if you have tried any of these methods? There are some excellent physiotherapists, chiropractors and masseurs in the locality. It is still worth discussing with your GP and agreeing a best way forward which works for you – whether you decide to take pain killers or not. You can discuss a referral to a specialist in order rule out anything more serious you think you may have.

Fitness levels, daily routines and habits also impact hugely on your general wellbeing. Studies show that regular physical activity can improve muscle strength, boost endurance, and generate more energy. Also, the tendency for people to slouch in front of their computers for long periods of time without a break adds strain on the back. You could look at the structure of your week and try re-introducing some gentle exercise or maybe treat yourself to a massage to begin with.

Perhaps having some quality time for yourself with friends, family or just enjoying time on your own may help. Finding time for you and your husband outside of domestic routines like a Date Night may also help. I often find that people who experience physical pain can have the problem heightened if they don’t feel fulfilled in other areas of their lives and they are not getting other needs met. Talk to your husband about how you are feeling and together you may both come up with solutions you may not have thought about. I have recently given talks on the benefits of hypnotherapy, which is proving highly effective for injury, surgery and ongoing/chronic pain including sciatica, fibromyalgia as well as underlying deep seated emotional pain. My clients tell me that my deep relaxation techniques help them with pain management. It helps them be calmer and enjoy a sense of greater well-being. They say they generally feel more energised, looking forward to their day. I have created some special relaxation audios and other resources for physical and emotional pain management and look forward to discussing how my hypno-methods may help you. Antonina I look forward to receiving all your letters in the coming months and encourage you to keep on writing with confidence as we edit and anatomise any we print. If your letter is printed you will get a free consultation. We can’t possibly publish every letter but as a special anniversary offer for the next 6 months anyone who writes in will receive a free consultation. Email your letters to antonina@communitymag.co.uk or write to the usual address.

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EASY LAMB TAGINE & HERBY COUS COUS

It’s a little misleading to call this ‘easy’, as tagines in general are incredibly easy and tasty dishes to cook. This one is simplified, and requires nothing that you probably haven’t got in your cupboard already.

INGREDIENTS (serves 4)

brown in the pan, then remove and set aside. For the Tagine: 2 Tbsp Olive Oil Add the onion and garlic and fry off until Approx. 400g Lamb Steaks just beginning to brown (about 5 mins). 1 Large Onion, sliced Add the dried spices and stir through, 2 Carrots, quartered lengthways cooking them out for about a minute. 3 Cloves Garlic, finely chopped Add the carrot and lamb and stir through 400g Tin Chopped Tomatoes well. Deglaze the pan with a little chicken 250ml Good Chicken Stock stock, scraping up all of those dried up 150g Ready to eat Prunes sticky bits, before stirring in the rest of the 1 Tbsp Ground Almonds stock and the chopped tomatoes. 2 tsp Ground Coriander Cover with a tight fitting lid (or use a sheet 2 tsp Cumin of foil under a looser lid) and simmer on 1 tsp Ground Ginger low for about 45 minutes. Stir in the ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon ground almonds and half a handful of the 1 Tbsp Flaked Almonds coriander leaves. Fresh Coriander Serve over the cous cous, garnished with some more coriander leaves and the For the Cous Cous: toasted flaked almonds. 200g Cous Cous For the cous cous, place in a bowl, cover to 200g Pomegranate Seeds about a cm over with boiling water, cover Fresh Mint & Coriander and leave for 10 mins. When it’s done, fluff Juice of 1 Orange it up with a fork, chop a good handful of 1 Tbsp White Wine Vinegar mint and coriander leaves and stir through 1 Tbsp Olive Oil with the pomegranate seeds. Take a good casserole or heavy saucepan (with lid) and heat the the olive oil over a Mix the Oil, vinegar and orange juice and drizzle over to dress the cous cous. medium heat. Dice the lamb into bite sized pieces and

Phil 63

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