News | People | Features | Competitions | Lifestyle
Whitchurch &
Llandaff Living
At the heart of the community
Issue 47 Mar/Apr '18
Win tickets to a top comedy show Motoring in North Cardiff Spring Interiors Garden Upcycling
Your multi award-winning community magazine
Inside this issue Interview
Conductor, singer and creative director David Mahoney explains why he calls Cardiff home
Competitions
Win a pair of tickets to the RHS Flower show and a pair of tickets to see comedian Chris Ramsey in concert
Interiors
Freshen up your home for spring with wonderful home decor and accessories from our villages
100 Years of Suffrage
Celebrating 100 years of women voting, we look at the local story behind the historic Suffrage and Suffragette movements
Early Summer deadline: 2nd May 2018
Published mid May 2018
a: 222 Pantbach Road, Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 6AG t: 07772 081775 / 07974 022920 w: www.livingmags.co.uk e: editor@livingmags.co.uk or danielle@livingmags.co.uk Distribution: 6,000 copies of Whitchurch and Llandaff Living are distributed to retail outlets and public places across Whitchurch, Llandaff and Llandaff North five times a year. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors or omissions, or for any matter in any way arising from the publication of this material. Every effort has been made to contact any copyright holders. Whitchurch and Llandaff Living is an independent, apolitical publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written permission of the publishers.
2
Welcome / Croeso Spring has finally arrived after what seems like an unending winter. To celebrate the changing of the seasons and the welcome of warm weather and sunny days, we have put together a truly bright and uplifting issue. We all love our homes in North Cardiff and Spring is traditionally a time when we pack away the clutter from Winter and look to spruce up our homes and gardens. With this in mind, we have put together several features focused on both indoor and outdoor living spaces and how to make the most of them this season. Our interiors feature showcases some sensational products from our local retailers, designed to help freshen up our living spaces and cast away any remnants of Winter. It's also a fantastic opportunity to shop local and make the most of the expertise of our business owners who are passionate about what they do. As the sun starts to show itself, Kevin Revell gives us advice and top tips on how to prepare our garden to bring the seasonal splash of colour back to our green spaces. If upcycling is your thing, we show you how to use everyday items to transform your outdoor space into something a little different. Our interview is with David Mahoney from Only Men Aloud, who went to school in Llandaff and who has just returned from New York where he was working with Julie Andrews and Roger Daltrey. He talks to us about his rise to fame and why he calls Cardiff home. We hear from one local blogger who suffers from bipolar
disorder. She openly discusses the challenges she faces and how she manages to cope with the illness and be a mother on a day to day basis. Her story is inspiring and honest, and will hopefully encourage more people to talk about mental health issues. With a celebration planned for June in Cardiff to mark 100 years of women getting the vote, we chart the rise of the historic Suffrage movement and the local ladies who were instrumental in effecting change. For our younger readers, editor and award-winning writer Patric Morgan shares his knowledge on how to successfully write short stories. With a historical walk around our city centre, a guide to motoring around North Cardiff and two fantastic competitions, there is plenty to read and enjoy. As always, please remember to support our loyal advertisers who enable these magazines to continue to thrive, and please mention that you have seen their advert in the magazine.
Danielle and Patric
Editors
@WhitchurchandLlandaffLiving www.facebook.com/ whitchurchandllandaffliving
What’s on Craft at the Court: Springtime Market Saturday 14th April 11am Insole Court, Llandaff Free entry to the springtime market Inspiring Wellness Weekend Sat/Sun 21st & 22nd April Holiday Inn, North Cardiff The show for your body and your soul. Visit more than 25 exhibitors within wellness and wellbeing
Llandaff Society: ‘One House, Three Stories - The Cathedral School Friday 27th April Llandaff Institute, Llandaff A talk by School Archivist, Louise Mumford Cardiff 5k Sunday 6th May 7pm Whitchurch Village The 3rd annual running of the Cardiff 5K in Whitchurch Village
Outline Planning Application for new Snow brings villages to a Velindre Cancer Centre approved
news
standstill
Artist's impression of the new facilities
Cardiff County Council’s Planning Committee has approved Velindre NHS Trust’s outline planning application for a new Velindre Cancer Centre. The Council’s Planning Committee met in December to consider Velindre NHS Trust’s proposal to build a new Cancer Centre in Whitchurch. Steve Ham, Chief Executive of Velindre NHS Trust said: “The approval of our outline planning application is a significant milestone for the population we serve across South East Wales.
Vision 21 get some bunnies
“Although it has served us and our patients well for more than 60 years, our current Cancer Centre is no longer fit for purpose. More and more people across South East Wales require cancer treatment and our care. Because of that continued increase in demand on our services, we must do things differently. “As we move in to this next phase, we’re looking forward to continuing to work with our patients and our local community to ensure that the new Velindre Cancer Centre and its location can benefit everyone.”
PCSOs hand out safety leaflets
The Oaks Garden Nursery (part of local charity Vision 21) located off Allensbank Road, Heath has started laying foundations to offer animal care training to people with learning needs, as well as their usual horticultural opportunities. The charity will soon be welcoming giant rabbits to the project. One of three horticultural projects at Vision 21, The Oaks Garden Nursery is open to the public as well as running as a training project. All profits made from sales at the nursery are invested back into the project to develop opportunities for the trainees. Llandaff North PCSOs have been delivering off-road bike information leaflets to residents around Hailey Park. The leaflets were handed out after complaints from residents around the park. Footage and pictures of offroad bikes and riders that cause annoyance to the public can be sent to opredmana@south-wales.pnn. police.uk
Whitchurch, Llandaff and Llandaff North came to a halt in early March when Cardiff was hit by blizzards and gale force winds. Most schools were closed, as well as many shops as several feet of snow fell, bringing the villages to a standstill. Most grocery stores across North Cardiff saw their supplies stripped from their shelves. Deliveries to the shops were also affected as roads were closed because of the icy conditions. Resident Clare Morgan said: "I had to leave work early on the day that the snow arrived. The Met Office had issued a Red Warning and I wasn't taking any chances. It was falling heavily by the time I got home and it was just as well that I left when I did as they cancelled all the trains home an hour after I'd left." Public transport was suspended for several days but the bad weather did bring out the community spirit in the area. Many locals ferried NHS staff to UHW in their 4x4s, so that they could continue delivering vital NHS services. Children were also happy to be given the opportunity to enjoy the snow. Whitchurch Golf Club became the scene for many families who turned up for a spot of sledging. "I should be in school but instead I'm here," said 7-yearold Evie, joyfully.
3
news
Llandaff's loos to get a facelift
On January 23rd, Llandaff 50+ celebrated receiving charity status and launched the start of the redevelopment of the old toilet block in Llandaff High Street. The group's aim is to convert the old building at the top of Cathedral Close, next to the Bishop’s Castle, into a daily activity centre for older people. The Centre will be known as 'The Pound' as it is situated on the land that was ‘the Lord’s Pound of the Manor of Llandaff’. This was where strays from the Whitsuntide Fayrethat was granted to the Bishop of Llandaff by King John in 1205- were empounded before a fee was paid for their release. Llandaff 50+’s architects, Downs Merrifield, have advised that a small extension should be added to the side of the loo building, so that it will be large enough to hold a meeting room for activities for 20-30 older people, a small kitchen, a heritage room telling the story of Llandaff, and an accessible toilet open to the public when volunteers are on duty in the heritage room. A planned archaeological dig will hopefully increase the knowledge of this small part of the village. The activities in 'The Pound' will be run for, and by, older people and will possibly include craft, history research, fitness, and board games. Llandaff 50+ members will also be encouraged to tend to the herbs in the garden of the Bishop’s Castle, as well as play boules and enjoy history walks. The aim of 'The Pound' is to reduce loneliness and isolation amongst older people by using their skills and talents to help others by helping themselves. Socialising, volunteering and creating are great ways to make friends, learn new things and support the community. Funding will be sought from various bodies to not only renovate the loos and Pound garden, but also to help Cardiff Council and Cadw to maintain the deteriorated
4
Whitchurch woman shaving locks for charity A retired woman from Cardiff, along with twelve others, is hoping to raise £10,000 for Whitchurch-based Cancer Research Wales this spring by shaving her head. Fifty-nine-year-old Sharon Davies will take part in the bold fundraising challenge, ‘Close Headshave II’, at the Maltsters Arms in Whitchurch in Cardiff on Saturday 14th April. The event follows ‘Close Headshave I’ held there in 2015 when 25 people raised £11,000 for the charity. Already a longstanding supporter of the Welsh charity, Sharon has volunteered at the Cancer Research Wales charity shop in Whitchurch for four years, and regularly raises money through local auctions and quiz nights. Sharon said: “A close friend of mine worked at the charity shop and told me they were looking for more volunteers; I thought I’d give it a go, and I’ve enjoyed it so much that I haven’t looked back.” Sharon decided to take her support to the next level this year, by taking the brave step of shaving her head to raise money for a cause close to her heart, after losing her mother to cancer. On volunteering, Sharon said: “I’m sure we all know someone who has lost a friend or relative to cancer. It affects many people from all walks of life and I wanted to help raise as much money as possible for the
charity I love by doing something daring. I’ve even dyed my hair on brand with the bright Cancer Research Wales colours to raise more awareness ready for the big day! “So far I’m the only woman brave enough to rise to the challenge and I wonder if any more long-haired supporters would like to join me? When my fellow fundraiser and event organiser Alastair Milburn asked me, my mouth answered before my brain engaged – I just couldn’t refuse and although I’m quite tentative about having my head shaved, on the other hand I’m secretly looking forward to it! “My family and friends think I’m crazy but very brave, and I’m extremely happy to be taking part in this challenge to raise vital funds for Cancer Research Wales to support the excellent work they do to help fight cancer.” Organiser Alastair Milburn said: “Over the last ten years, the community has come together and raised more than £50,000 for charity. Anyone who would like to join in on April 14 can contact me at amilburn@effcom.co.uk or 07813 857328.” The group has also set up a Virgin Giving page for donations at www.bit.ly/2CUaht1
Big litter pick makes difference
The weather was cold but that didn’t stop 16 volunteers coming together to litter pick Longwood Drive, Coryton in late February. The road is a problem area for rubbish, with the surrounding roads continually littered by vehicle owners who choose to discard their waste into the nearby nature reserve. The band of volunteers collected 26 bags of rubbish, along with fly tipping
waste including a printer, large metal pipe, car jack, large plastic bottle containing an unknown solution and handles from a supermarket trolley. The haul also included a tabard and paperwork. Volunteers from the following groups made a difference to the effort: Keep Wales Tidy Litter Champions, Love Where You Live Litter Champions, Whitchurch Waste Warriors and McDonalds staff who organise the litter picks. Cardiff Council Street Cleansing team also supported the groups. McDonalds Coryton have recently installed a new bin near their site along Longwood Drive, which they empty daily to try and encourage people to bin their rubbish.
Your letters
letters WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! We love to hear what you've been up to so send us your letters and photos! We'll do our best to print them all. editor@livingmags.co.uk
Recycling site closure a bad deal for North Cardiff For several months now, years in fact, Cardiff Council have threatened the people of North Cardiff with the closure of the Wedal Road Household Waste Recycling Centre. I live in Whitchurch and use the facility regularly. I know many others who do too. Finally last month, we heard the news that the site was to close for good - most alarmingly - without a suitable alternative. Council officials will have us believe that we are all capable of heading over to their new so-called 'Super Sites'. That all seems very well in theory but perhaps Council officials don't appreciate the amount of time it takes to get from one side of the city to the other because of the traffic. It was less than a year ago that this Council was telling us that the site would not be closing any time soon. Yet here we are, now without a facility here in North Cardiff. My fear is that because we all have waste to get rid of, that people will now start resorting to fly-tipping, which I have seen happening a few times in the last few weeks. Ultimately, this will probably cost the Council more to clean up. Cardiff is a big city, one of the biggest in the UK and having just two recycling sites is not sufficient. My other fear is that the closure will encourage people to recycle less because they will just want to shove everything in a black bag for collection by the bin men. All in all, it's a bad deal for the people of North Cardiff. Mr V Francis Whitchurch
Picture request
I would like to find pictures of the area around the Regal Snooker Hall at the top of Western Avenue or anything nearby (eg. trains etc). Are any of your readers able to help please? David Carpenter Email (please email editor@livingmags. co.uk for contact details)
Polite request to motorists Please could I appeal through your columns to ask for a little consideration from drivers parking in our villages and outside our houses. Apart from causing damage to the local environment, it is just so unnecessary as parking is available in the road. Strangely, the bin men with their huge vehicles, never find the need to encroach on the grass. All it takes is a little bit of thought and care. It would make all the difference to us. Name and address supplied Whitchurch
Snuffers anyone? In an article in the South Wales Echo some years ago, it was suggested that the 'Snuffers' part of the famous Llandaff North pub may have had connections with candlelights along the canal towpath. Perhaps someone could shed more light on this? Simon Warmingham Email
Wallet returned I recently lost my wallet; I left it on a 21 bus, which passes through Rhiwbina and on to Whitchurch. Some very kind person not only found it, but returned it to my address. Unfortunately, I cannot thank them personally, since they left no details. I rather hoped I might do so through via Whitchurch and Llandaff Living's letter column. It is thoughtful actions such as this that makes North Cardiff such a pleasant area to live. Tim Coombs Rhiwbina Hill
If you have anything you’d like our readers to know about, drop us a line at editor@livingmags.co.uk or by letter to 222 Pantbach Road, Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 6AG. You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter
5
Constituency News
with Julie Morgan AM
This year is the centenary of women getting the vote and on February 6th (the anniversary of the Representation of the People Act), I was very pleased to be invited up to the House of Commons along with other former MPs to mark the occasion. Not all women got the vote in 1918 but it was an important milestone. I urge all women, particularly young women, to make sure they’re registered to vote and to use this hard-won right at every opportunity. In the Assembly, I’ve continued to highlight the need for justice for those affected by the contaminated blood scandal. I welcomed the long-awaited announcement that a chair of the public inquiry has been appointed. I’ve campaigned for nearly 20 years with Haemophilia Wales, chaired by a constituent from Whitchurch, on this issue. In January, I organised the third annual vigil to commemorate the forgotten victims of the Holocaust. A moving ceremony took place on Holocaust Memorial Day (January 27th) on the Senedd steps. Along with the six million Jews killed, we remembered the Gypsies, gay people, disabled people, priests and political opponents of the Nazis.
INSOLE COURT
SPRINGTIME
MARKET Saturday 14th April 11am - 4pm Free Entry £1 Car Parking Fee Applies
MARCHNAD GWANWYN CWRT INSOLE Dydd Sadwn 14eg Ebrill 11am - 4pm Mynediad am ddim Codir £1 Ffi Parcio Ceir
Insole Court, Fairwater Road, Llandaff, Cardiff, CF5 2LN Tel: (029)21 167920 Web: insolecourt.org Social: @insolecourt
On January 9th, I held a ‘Caring 4 K9s’ event to highlight the dangers of dog attacks faced by the public and postal workers. We heard from a postal workers’ representative about some horrific injuries to postal workers. We also heard about the work of the Dogs’ Trust which is promoting training and education to encourage people to be responsible dog owners. At the end of January, I held a ‘Get On Your Bike’ event to promote cycling to non-cyclists and returning cyclists. The idea was to encourage people to use their bikes for short journeys – the school run, trips to the shops and commutes – as often as possible to help promote fitness and cut pollution and congestion. The event in Whitchurch Rugby Club was packed out and attracted a wide variety of ages – from young to old – and a mixture of experienced cyclists and new enthusiasts. If you’d like to find out more about guided and social rides, see www.letsride.co.uk. How to get in touch If you have any concerns or issues please contact my office on 029 2061 4577. I can also be contacted via my website at www.juliemorgan.org. uk, by email at julie.morgan@assembly.wales or through Twitter @JulieMorganLAB Sponsored feature
Outstanding School for Girls and Boys ages 3-18
Take your next step
at the Cathedral School
Primary Open Morning (Nursery-Year 6) Tuesday 8th May 2018, 9.30-11.00am
Little Explorers Forest School
(Pre-school girls & boys aged 2-3 welcome) Wednesday 16th May 2018, 9.30-10.30am & 1.30-2.30pm Please contact the Registrar for further details
Sixth Form
Seniors
029 2083 8504 registrar@cathedral-school.co.uk www.cathedral-school.co.uk
Primary
Nursery
We are now exclusive Aga and Everhot dealers for South Wales
Clearview Stove
Chesney Stove
Stoves | Kitchens | Ranges | Outdoors
Visit our showroom and see our wide choice of high quality stoves, kitchens and interiors. Relax in the CafĂŠ in our Cowbridge showroom.
COWBRIDGE Unit 42, Vale Business Park, Llandow, Cowbridge, CF71 7PF Tel: 01446 771567 MONMOUTH 1 Mayhill Ind Est, Staunton Rd, Monmouth, NP25 3LX Tel: 01600 711710
www.topstak.co.uk | Find us on:
We are exclusive dealers for leading brands including:
david mahoney From sell-out shows in theatre, festivals and television, David Mahoney's productions have inspired both audiences a nd performers alike David Mahoney is only 30 years old yet his career to date has seen him tick off a list of achievements that some could only manage in a lifetime. But for the singer, producer, conductor, creative director and Classical Brit Award winner, it's a lifestyle that is rooted right here in North Cardiff: "I grew up in Groes-faen and attended the primary school there. My mum still lives in the village. After primary school, I went to Llandaff’s Cathedral School and that’s where my interest in music started. I can honestly say that the Cathedral School is where I learnt
8
the most about music. My parents weren’t massively musical but at the school, I became a chorister and took a real interest in the subject." David studied at the famous Llandaff school before winning a music scholarship to Marlborough College in Wiltshire. He was then a choral scholar at St Peter’s College, Oxford University where he studied music and graduated in 2009. "I never intended to go into the music industry. In fact, I started a law degree in London in 2009 and only got two weeks into it when I got a phone call asking if I wanted to audition for Only Men Aloud. That changed everything."
Only Men Aloud had been delighting audiences around the world since the year 2000, with the hope that they could inject some new life and blood into the Welsh Male Choir tradition. "My plan was to simply postpone the law career but I never went back. Only Men Aloud became a big part of my life and it was through the choir that I was introduced to the music industry for the first time. I’d learnt all the academic knowledge at school and university but being in Only Men Aloud opened up all kinds of opportunities." Only Men Aloud shot to
people mainstream fame after appearing in the TV show, Last Choir Standing in 2008. Formed by Tim Rhys-Evans, a classically trained singer and former musical director of Welsh National Youth Opera, the choir originally started off with 15 members. Following Last Choir Standing, the choir signed a five-record deal with Universal Music and released their first album, performing with Josh Groban at The Royal Variety Performance later that year. "It was at that point that I think my musical career officially started, if you like," says David. "It opened doors and it opened my eyes. It allowed me to branch off into areas that interested me." The law degree was abandoned and David has not looked back since. He now splits his time between London, other parts of the world, and Cardiff - the place he calls home. "Wales and my Welsh heritage has had an incredibly large part to play in my career since – it’s been
hugely important. Having moved away to London originally, I found myself being drawn back home to Cardiff again. It’s where I’ve always felt more at ease. I couldn’t call anywhere else home. "Wales is also a place of opportunity for me and others. In 2011, I set up the Cardiff Music Festival. The Wales Millennium Centre has also played a pivotal role in the development of my career. I owe it a lot!" David's development has been nurtured right here in the Welsh capital: "I guess the turning point in my career, the point where I thought to myself that I’d actually ‘made it’, was in 2015. The Wales Millennium Centre was celebrating its 10th anniversary and as Creative
Director, I was given a big budget to create a show called Broadway to the Bay. It allowed me to create a vision that had virtually no boundaries. We put on three sell-out shows with 12 extremely talented artists performing. We had an amazing time and I remember feeling that I’d finally arrived!" But there was still more to come from the Cardiff man including the Opening Concert of the 2016 National Eisteddfod, and taking on the role of Music Supervisor for the Roald Dahl Centenary Celebrations, 'City of the Unexpected'. And when David hand picked a group of performers for a sell-out show at the Wales Millennium Centre, little did he know that it would be the beginnings of an orchestra that would perform with some of the biggest names in showbusiness. The Novello Orchestra, which David now heads up, quickly became renowned for its passionate, enigmatic performances and a charisma that has injected an energy and innovative take on the whole orchestral concept. The orchestra now brings the very best of musical theatre and other genres to audiences through spectacular shows with stars of the West End and Broadway. The orchestra has also become one of the world's leading film music ensembles, performing a series of Film with Live Orchestra theatre, concert hall and arena tours across the UK and Ireland. Added to that, David has also been an associate producer for Jonathan and Charlotte (ITV1) and three episodes of Songs of Praise (BBC1), while development work includes projects involving Dame Shirley Bassey and Sir Tom Jones. David has also been Show Producer for the BAFTA Cymru Awards for the last three years. But now international work beckons: "I’ve just come back from New York where I was Creative Director
at the Raise Your Voice Gala too. This was my first big show in the United States and it featured Julie Andrews, Sam Smith, Roger Daltrey and Keith Urban." Looking ahead, David has a busy year. Upcoming productions include Music Supervisor/ Conductor for Disney's Beauty and the Beast Live in Concert (UK and Ireland Tour) and Star Wars: A New Hope Live in Concert (UK Arena Tour). "This is where we screen the film to an audience but provide the music with a live orchestra. It's an amazing experience." For David, it's musical experiences like these that keep his passion fired: "You’d think that because I work in music professionally, that I wouldn't enjoy it but it never feels that way. Work for me is a joy and I get great satisfaction from seeing the wonderful reactions and enjoyment that my work brings to people’s faces. Music is a universal language, one that everyone can respond to. I can’t imagine life without it."
I can't imagine
my life without
music
9
RICS HOME SURVEYS PROPERTY VALUATION ENERGY PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATES
Need a valuation, survey or energy certificate? 5 Heol-y-Deri, Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 6HA Tel: 029 2062 5433 @JonesBattye www.jonesbattye.com
Curtains • Blinds • Shutters • Upholstery • Wallpaper 2 Kelston Road, Whitchurch CF14 2AJ
029 2061 4966 www.curtain-raisers.co.uk
10% OFF all SS18 collection with this advert
z z i F y a d Fri
Browse until 8pm with a complimentary glass of fizz every first Friday of the month
Independent Boutique in Rhiwbina
Find us in Rhiwbina village Park outside the store in Lon Fach Shopping Mews
9-11 Lon Fach Rhiwbeina CF14 6DY www.calonrhiwbeina.com tel: 029 20610722 email: info@calonrhiwbeina.com
Secret Shed The
Welsh Tea Garden opening this Easter!
The Secret Shed is the perfect place to while away a spring afternoon. Our Welsh Tea Garden opens this Easter, serving all-Welsh produce supplied by Welsh companies. Even our coffee machine is Welsh! Sit back on our deck, overlooking the historical babbling brook and watch the trout swim by. You will be surrounded by beautiful garden plants and ornaments - or you can sit in our bespoke log cabin and enjoy the warmth of our log burner. Afterwards, you can browse our gorgeous gift shop and garden centre - and take home more than just lovely springtime memories.
1c Beulah Road, Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 6LT
02920 616921
CARDIFF BED & FURNITURE CENTRE
ÂŁ100 OFF
*
*ÂŁ100 off selected display beds Offer ends 30th April 2018
47 Merthyr Road, Whitchurch, Cardiff CF14 1DB 02920 615719 info@cardiffbedcentre.co.uk
Open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm Sat 10am-4pm
www.cardiffbedcentre.co.uk
How to write a short story
Writing your own short story can be great fun, allowing you to create your own worlds, characters and storylines. Children's author Patric Morgan shows how you can write your own short story in 3 easy steps
1. Getting started The VERY first thing you need to do when writing any story is to decide who you are writing for. Everything else that you do will fit around your audience - the person you are writing your story for. So decide whether you're writing for 2-4 year olds, 4-7, 8-10 etc. Writing for younger kids will mean that you have to write simpler words and shorter sentences. Keep your audience in mind at all times! Next, decide on what your story is going to be about. Making something up completely on the spot can be difficult so think back to something that's happened to you. Think also of a place where you can set your story. It doesn't need to be somewhere exotic or somewhere you've never
been to before. In fact, short stories often work well when you use a place you've been to because you can describe it better. Deciding on what your THEME is going to be can help you decide where your story is going to be set. For instance, a story about friendship could be set in school. A story with family as its theme could be set at home. The THEME is the central idea that your story's about. Next you'll need to create your central CHARACTER. If you are going to be the main character, that's fine but bear in mind that you will probably need to write it from your point of view.
On the other hand, your main character can be based on someone you know - or can come completely from your imagination. Whoever you decide on, the best characters are those that are realistic. Be sure to give them a flaw - something that makes them not perfect and use this in your story. They will also need one or two traits - something that makes them different from other characters. If you think of your favourite film, each character is different and has different qualities. A main character often has a flaw that they overcome or use to their advantage later on in the story. The trick is to get your character to overcome their problem, even with their flaw, by the end of the story. That's what your reader will want. Finally, you'll then need to work out a PLOT. It's easier if you break your story down into five separate parts. You don't need to make the reader aware of this - this is just for your planning.
kids
2. Getting it down In Part 1, you'll need to introduce your character, your SETTING and very importantly, describe the CONFLICT that your character is facing. Conflict is important in a story because your reader will want it resolved - and it's this that keeps them reading. In Part 2, there will need to be an incident that challenges your character. The challenge can come from another character, or a situation, or from circumstance. Part 3 will show your character reacting to their challenge. How are they adjusting to it? What are they planning to overcome their conflict? Part 4 is where you can add a sense of drama to your story. The plot will bubble over into what's called the climax - the high point of the story. This is where your main character takes on their conflict to overcome it once and for all. Part 5 is where your character adjusts to their new situation, having overcome their conflict. ADDED BONUS Some writers often drop in a TWIST at the end of their stories. A twist is something that's usually unexpected. Good writers plan their twists from the very beginning, often planning their entire story from back to front before they even write a word. A good way to add a twist to the end of your story is to plant something at the start of your story that can make a reappearance at the end. For example, you may want to show
the reader that your main character has a certain skill that is mentioned at the beginning of the story and never mentioned again. It's only at the end that your character uses their skill to get out of a tricky situation. Here are a few other things you'll need to bear in mind when you write your story: Your OPENING needs to catch the reader's attention straight away. If you don't, they'll put your work down and they'll never read the rest of your story. A good opening will pose a question for the reader, one that they will want answered. Here's one example: Harry looked down from the school roof. He could see the entire playground where he'd only been playing a few hours earlier. Who is Harry? And what's he doing on the school roof? Is he going to jump? So many questions that need answering from just two sentences.
DESCRIPTIVE WRITING You will have probably tried this
out in school but if you are good at describing things, you will be able to create a great setting. Use adjectives (describing words), alliteration (where you put a string of words together that start with the same sound eg. the deep, dark woods); use assonance (where you use similar sounding words in sequence eg. doom and gloom); use adverbs (a verb is a doing word and an adverb describes the doing word) eg. the man crawled (verb) slowly (adverb). Use colours and your senses to describe things and people. This is how humans experience the world so use sight, sound, smell, touch (or emotion) and taste. This will make your story rich in detail.
here your
DIALOGUE istoweach other. The
characters talk characters say things that your ould be there to each other sh aracter or ch to develop your your characters ve ha 't on D story. periods of time talking for long particular. Your about nothing in e bored. Dialogu reader will get ard. rw fo y or st ur yo can also move s ha r te e charac For example, on ey accidentally th information that character. This r he ot an to pass on ap operas on so in t lo a s en happ ch any of these, TV so if you wat ogue keeps the al learn how the di g. in go es storylin
SHOW - NOT TELL. If you've
seen Darth Vader, you'll know that he's the baddie. That's not because he comes in and says that he's a baddie. He comes in and lifts one of his workers up off the floor by his neck. That's not very nice. Only a baddie would do such a thing. Actions speak volumes so get your character to do things that are in keeping with their traits.
3. Getting it polished Crafting your short story can take time so don't feel that you have to do it all in one go. The first version you produce will almost definitely not be the one you want to show people. Even as I'm writing this out, I'm doing a rough version and I'll then go back for what's called an EDIT. An edit is when you read your first draft to check over it. What you will usually find is that it's riddled with mistakes, both in the storyline and spelling. That's fine though. That's what an edit is for. Your story can go through an endless amount of edits but the purpose of an edit is to make sure that the story
makes sense and that there are no mistakes. Your first edit will also give you the opportunity to get a feel for how your reader will react when they read your story. It will also give you the chance to finalise things and correct all your mistakes. You are then set to try out a few things. You can read your story out loud to yourself to see how it reads. If you're happy with that, you can then show it to some close friends to see if they like it. If you're embarrassed about other people reading your work and if you have the means to do so, why not post your story online anonymously?
Getting feedback, good and bad, is a great way of learning and developing your storytelling techniques. If you want to take your story further, you can look to selfpublish your own book. Amazon run an online self-publishing platform called Createspace where you can publish your book in paperback. You can also publish for Kindle via their Kindle Direct Publishing websites. It's free to do - and you can even make money from your stories if they sell well.
St John’s College, Cardiff
Fun shoes for active kids
A leading independent day school for boys & girls aged 3-18 Choir School to Cardiff Metropolitan Cathedral
Welsh Independent Secondary School of the Year 2017 The Sunday Times - Parent Power
St John’s College, Cardiff a leading independent day school for boys & girls aged 3-18
Top School in Wales at A level for the 14th Successive Year Exceptional A level results 2017 A*/A - 83%
A*/B - 98%
! !Children’s shoe shop supplying leading Our fitters take time and care !! brands. to ensure the best fit for your child.
Pass Rate -100%
!
Estyn Inspection Report - ‘Excellent’
!
including the seldom awarded 'Excellent' for Standards of Teaching (2012) Nursery & Infants - Juniors - Seniors - Sixth Form Wraparound care - 8.00am to 6.00pm - Mon to Fri
Admissions Please contactPlease Admissions a visit:!to !contact !! ! to ! arrange !
arrange a visit:
www.stjohnscollegecardiff.com @SJCCardiff www.stjohnscollegecardiff.com
!
029 2077 8936
Charity No. 701294
Charity No. 701294
Ogam Igam, 5 Royal Buildings, Penarth CF64 3EB t: 029 20704254 w: www.ogamigam.com
What’s new in Whitchurch? What We Offer Microsuction
Safe, comfortable, instant earwax removal. If you are having problems with dull hearing, itching or ringing in the ears, there could be wax blocking your ear canals. Microsuction is the safest and most comfortable form of earwax removal available. No fuss, no mess - just instant relief from your earwax problem. Viney Hearing Care were the first hearing healthcare practice to offer Microsuction in South Wales.
Tinnitus Management
One in ten people in the UK suffer with some form of tinnitus. At Viney Hearing, we can diagnose the potential causes and advise you on the best course of action to help treat it.
FREE Hearing Tests
Have you ever had your hearing tested? You’re supposed to have it checked every 2 years. Everyone gets their eyes and their teeth checked on a regular basis. We need to add hearing to this maintenance list! Diagnosing and treating hearing loss in its early stages can help prevent further deterioration.
FREE Technology Demonstrations
You can evaluate how you would feel about using hearing aids and how they could help your hearing in the situations and environments you have perceived difficulties in. Demonstrations can help you to make an informed decision about the best course of action for your hearing.
FREE
The safest way to clear blocked ears
Thursday April 19th
Normal cost £45 Call 02920 250121 today - limited spaces I would like to take this opportunity to introduce Viney Hearing Care to the Whitchurch community and to explain a bit about the great range of services that we offer. We are an independent family company that has been providing first class hearing services across South Wales for over 30 years. Viney Hearing is a centre where you can come to address and find support for all hearing related issues. Our aim is to provide the highest standards of clinical practice by combining the latest state of the art technology with professional expertise and exceptional levels of care. If you think you are having a problem with your ears, we can help, give us a call on 02920 250121 to book an appointment
Michelle Viney BSc RHAD
Unbeatable 5* Service Programme
We only offer the best hearing aids backed up by the best aftercare. Regular servicing and calibration ensures all our patients are getting the maximum from their hearing aids. We also offer this service to people with hearing aids from other companies.
FREE Home Appointments We also offer our services in the comfort of your own home.
Microsuction and Ear Health Check Day
a: 66 Merthyr Road, Whitchurch, Cardiff CF14 1DJ
t: 02920 250121 w: www.vineyhearingcare.co.uk e: info@vineyhearingcare.co.uk
100 Years of Suffrage 2018 marks 100 years since the Representation of the People Act was passed, allowing women to vote for the first time
The Eisteddfod of 1912 was expected to be a usual mix of music, poetry and literature. But the event in Wrexham was interrupted by an incident that still has repercussions to this day. Lloyd George, the Chancellor of the Exchequer at the time, was giving a speech when he was heckled from the crowd by a woman by the name of Kitty Marion. Born in Rietberg in Germany in 1871, Marion (real name Katherina Maria Schafer) had moved to England to become an actress. Working her way up from chorus to named parts, she was briefly the temporary stand-in for the lead before she fell out with her
THEY ARE AMONGST
ANCIENT BRITONS
AND WE'LL SHOW
THEM HOW TO
DEAL WITH
SUFFRAGETTES 16
employer. Looking to find work in the music halls, she soon found out that employers expected sexual favours in exchange for the best work available. Kitty's gripe with Lloyd George was that women did not have the same rights as men - and she was determined to do something about it. Kitty's heckling of Lloyd George that day was to cost her. Arrested, she was beaten and humiliated. But it wasn't the first time, or the last time, that she had been arrested and beaten. She went on to become a prominent suffragette, enduring more than 200 force-feedings while in prison. A man in the crowd that day was heard to shout: "They are amongst the Ancient Britons and we'll show them how to deal with Suffragettes." The move for women to have the vote had already started in 1897 when Millicent Fawcett founded the National Union of Women’s Suffrage. Suffrage, meaning the right to vote, became a hot social and political topic for both men and women during the early 20th
century. Its reach into Wales took a while but by the early 1900s, Wales was encountering its own protests from women, including that from Kitty. Against the backdrop of increasing deep divisions of Home Rule in Ireland, and miners' strikes at Welsh coal pits, the rise of the suffrage spilled over into militancy. Walls were defaced, buildings - including theatres and sports pavilions were set on fire; national monuments, statues and paintings were damaged and defaced; golf courses were dug up and slogans painted on the grass; telegraph and telephone cables were also cut and post boxes were set on fire. The press portrayed the escalation as a sex war, the Suffragettes likened to terrorists. Cardiff witnessed its own scuffles - in 1909, violent scenes broke out at Mount Stuart Square when three women attempted to speak to a crowd about suffrage. The crowd, numbering about 1,000 people pelted the women with fireworks and flour and they had to be Main photograph courtesy of the People's Collection Wales
rescued by police. Similar scenes occurred throughout South Wales. 1910 saw the UK hold two general elections amid a constitutional crisis. Emboldened by the heightened political activity, the women pushed for more constitutional action. More peaceful means were also being sought out by the Suffragists, whose efforts were often overshadowed by the more extreme actions of the Suffragettes. Led by Rose Mabel Lewis of Tongwynlais, the South Wales Federation of Women’s Suffrage Societies' annual report for 1911 shows that they raised awareness through various means - including a jumble sale, a fancy dress dance and a whist drive. As a result, their membership rose to 930. By 1912, and the time that Kitty Marion made her stand at the National Eisteddfod, organisers were to take out extra insurance and employ guards at subsequent events because of the fear that women would burn down the Eisteddfod pavilion. The suffragette movement however was seen as blighting the work of the more peace-loving Suffrages. In 1913, a ruling dashed any hope of an amendment to include women in the Reform Bill. Bomb and arson campaigns were stepped up by the Suffragettes, leading to what was called the 'Cat and Mouse' Act. Under the act, hunger strikers were released then rearrested, preventing them from dying in police custody. Tragedy was soon to follow. Emily Wilding Davison, arrested nine times and force-fed 49 times, was knocked down by the King's horse at the Epsom Derby when she stepped out in front of it. She died of her injuries four days later. Opinion is still divided over whether the 40 year old meant to die on Derby Day or whether she was trying to merely disrupt the race to draw attention to the Suffragettes' cause - she had a return train ticket and another to a dance later that evening in her handbag. Her funeral was attended by thousands of women. Tens of thousands more lined the streets of London as her coffin passed by. 1913 also saw the Great Pilgrimage - a peaceful march to London from all over the UK. In Cardiff, members joined the West Country route, one of six national routes that converged on Hyde Park in July of that year. Many marchers set off in June, allowing themselves several
history
weeks to reach their destination. Each contingent was preceded by banners declaring the march to be law-abiding and non-militant. A banner that had been used in Cardiff in 1911 was once again used in 1913, and is now on display in the National Museum of Wales. The march on London was organised down to the finest detail. Information about upcoming villages was provided to the marchers, allowing them to plan accommodation and other facilities. There were daily roll calls and marchers were asked to wear rosettes in green, white and red not the purple of the Suffragettes. There were even some marchers who provided their own accommodation in the form of horse-drawn caravans. Public meetings were also organised along the way, some of these being met with violence. On Saturday 26th July, the marchers finally converged on Hyde Park for their rally, joined by
other supporters. Speakers spoke from 19 platforms, one for each Federation within the NUWSS and at 6pm, a vote was taken at each platform. Those present unanimously passed the motion 'That this meeting demands a Government measure for the enfranchisement of women.' It wasn't until 1918 that the Representation of the People Act was passed, allowing men over 21 and women over 30 to vote and the following year in 1919, the UK got its first female MP, Nancy Astor. It wouldn't be until 1928 when an amendment to the Representation of the People Act entitled everyone over the age of 21 to vote. On Sunday 10th June this year, a procession will take place through Cardiff to celebrate one hundred years of votes for women. Communities are being asked to create their own banners. More information can be found at www.processions.co.uk
17
• Reduces pain • Promotes recovery • Prevents injury • Improves posture & flexibility • Relieves stress • Improves health & wellbeing
Do you suffer from muscular discomfort, tension, aches, minor or chronic injury? -Headaches & migraines - Neck aches & whiplash - Shoulder problems - Back pain & sciatica - Hip, pelvis or leg discomfort - Tennis elbow - RSI and carpel tunnel - DOMS from training & competition Treatments tailored to meet your requirements using deep tissue massage & other advanced techniques. Whether you are a competitive or recreational athlete, DIY enthusiast, gardener, busy housewife or a stressed executive, massage can make you feel human again
Rhiwbina based clinic Treatments from £20 Gift Vouchers available Tel: 07794 850597 W: www.jpsofttissuetherapist.co.uk E: josportmassage@gmail.com www.facebook.com/josportmassage
This is Sarah. She’s busy cleaning her oven...
10
YEARS 2006 - 2016
RELIABLE QUALITY & SERVICE
Sarah called the domestic oven cleaning specialists, so she could relax and enjoy a coffee while it’s done!
Clean Oven The
Co
• Ovens • Agas • Grills • Hobs • Extractors • BBQs • Microwaves • CALL Y TODA
02920 990 287
www.thecleanovenco.com
Clever Sarah!
Put the sparkle back into Your kitchen today!
Heather Small How Can I Love You More? 17.05.18
Soul Legends 13.04.18
Philharmonia Orchestra feat. Vladimir Ashkenazy 18.05.18
The Shires + Andy Brown & Sinead Burgess 14.05.18
Killer Queen 25.05.18
Catrin Finch & Seckou Keita + Gwyneth Glyn 03.05.18
Angela Hewitt The Goldberg Variations 08.04.18
Our Finest Hour feat. Kevin Whately 15.04.18
Nils Lofgren 50 Years Up the Road 31.05.18
Polished. Professional
+44 (0)29 20 606 458 Nail extensions, acrylic and gel. Full range of Shellac colours and extensive choice of nail art.
1 st Floor, 3 Bishops Road, Whitchurch, Cardiff, CF14 1LT www.naildivas.co.uk
E V E RY M O N T H AT
CARDIFF
TICKETs FROM
£27
PER PERSON
BOOK ONLINE VillageHotels.com/TributeTour Village Hotel Cardiff, 29 Pendwyallt Road, Coryton, Cardiff, CF14 7EF
02921 671120
Give the gift of independent shopping in Cardiff Take a look at the new FOR Cardiff gift card that is supporting independent businesses We all struggle to find the right gift for the fussy foodies, vintage treasure hunters, coffee addicts or sports fans in our lives, but thankfully FOR Cardiff has created the perfect solution. Here’s all you need to know about it.
What’s different about it? Almost every national chain, department store and shopping centre has its own gift card but there isn’t much on the market that is destination-led. FOR Cardiff has stepped into change this and created a gift card aimed specifically at supporting local independent businesses across the city centre.
Why should you choose it? The high number of independent shops, cafés and restaurants is what sets Cardiff apart from other cities, and gives residents and visitors a completely unique experience. This is a gift card that anyone who loves shopping or dining out in Cardiff would be thrilled to receive. In addition, you will be helping support the independent shops, which are the beating heart of our capital city.
at Escape Reality, relax with a freshly-brewed coffee and slab of homemade cake at Coffee Barker, or treat themselves to a glass of prosecco and a pastry at Nine Yards. To view the full list visit cardiffgiftcard.com
How much do you have to spend? You can load the card with a value to suit your budget, from £5 to £500 and the cards are valid for 12 months from date of purchase.
Where can you spend it?
How do you purchase one?
This gift card encourages the recipient to step away from the beaten path to discover hidden gems around the city, many of which are found in our beautiful arcades. There are currently 50 shops, cafés, restaurants and experiences where you can spend the card - from Christopher George Jewellers to Shop Rugby and Chapel 1877.
The gift card can be purchased online at cardiffgiftcard.com and can be posted to you or directly to the recipient. So next time you’re buying a gift card for a friend or loved one, step away from the national chains and give the gift of Cardiff instead.
cardiffgiftcard.com
So when you give this card, you are giving them the opportunity to sample the delights of Wally’s Deli, delve through the rails at Dot Clothing, enjoy authentic Spanish cuisine at Asador 44, or cocktails and tapas at Bar 44. They could also choose to have an experience to remember Sponsored feature
What it's like to live with bipolar Being a mum is hard, and having a mental illness is hard. But when you are a mum with a mental illness, it almost seems impossible. In her own words, one Llandaff mother describes what it's like living with the condition
M
y name is Laura and I am a 27 year old mum and writer, and I have Bipolar Disorder. It has been a long road for me, to finally be able to admit that I have a mental illness. Suffocated by stigma, and silenced by fear, I battled my illness alone for many years. I was unable to tell the doctor how I really felt and how I was really acting when I was depressed and manic. 'They will think I’m a bad mother; they will throw me in a padded room and my kids will go into care,' is what went through my head. Those thoughts, though irrational, are extremely real for those parents who suffer. The guilt that I feel is unfathomable. Guilt is a huge part
22
of depression and it’s also a huge part of being a parent. So one can only imagine how guilty I feel on a daily basis; I’m forever feeling like I don’t do enough for my kids. As parents, we're judged. Our choices are picked apart and our decisions are ridiculed, especially for new parents. Or a young parent. Or a parent with a mental illness. I was all of the above once upon a time. There have been sunny days that I’ve spent curled up in bed, while the kids played in their rooms. They have seen me cry and wiped my tears. My eldest boy has shown tremendous strength and maturity beyond his years. My kids tell me that they love me all the time and they never complain. But no matter what they say, and how much they try to reassure me, I will always feel a tremendous amount of guilt for not being well over the years. For being the fun parent one moment and depressed the next. For not building those relationships with other parents in the playground because I’m too socially awkward; for not always completing their homework projects; for getting them to class late. I constantly feel like I’m letting them down. The painful truth is that previously,
when I was in denial, I was hiding things from doctors and refusing to accept my situation. In an ideal world, it would be wonderful to be the perfect parent every day wouldn’t it? Healthy, homecooked nutritious meals, perfectly neat uniforms, never snapping or shouting, an immaculate home and having the best of everything. The reality though is far from the above for a lot of parents, but you know what? It’s okay to admit that. It’s okay to be a parent and admit that you struggle from time to time; it’s okay to cry in the shower, to moan about the monotony of parenting, to want a break, to be a human being. It’s okay. And for all those imperfect parents out there who don’t feel you’re doing enough, as long as you love your children – you are doing enough and you are enough. Hiding how we feel, mental illness or not, is when parenting becomes stressful and problematic. So don’t be afraid to say it. Don’t suffer in silence. I am a mother and I have a mental illness. I am a mother and I have struggled. I am a mother and I love my children. At the end of the day, that’s all that matters.
people
One thing that really helps ease my depression is getting out and about with the kids in the fresh air. With this in mind, I’ve put together a list of my favourite local places to go - and the best thing is that all of these places are free to enjoy!
Insole Court
Growing up and attending Llandaff City Primary School meant that Insole Court Gardens were always a precious part of my life. A botanical wonder, rich in history, the beautiful manor house and its grounds are the perfect place to regain some clarity. Friends of Insole Court have worked tirelessly to breathe life back into the building and thanks to funding, it now boasts a completely revamped main building as well as The Potting Shed café. There are also beautiful light spaces to hold meetings with the most wonderful timetable of community classes, courses and events. There’s something for everyone - from art classes to baby massage, yoga and drama classes. Insole Court is now blooming like the beautiful flowers it grows.
Penarth Pier
Penarth is a special place that holds deep sentimental value for me. Walking along the pier, the fresh sea air and the incredible views across Cardiff always bring me peace. The delicious ice cream and the vintage sweet shop that sells fresh sugared doughnuts also help! The boys and I have a tradition on rainy days - we head to Penarth, park up and eat ice cream in the car. It's brave I know, but I’m just glad that my children are making memories like the ones I hold so dearly!
Cosmeston Lakes
Whenever I’m feeling a bit down, I love to go and walk around Cosmeston Lakes. It’s so peaceful and serene, especially at this time of year. It’s a great place to go walking, especially if you want to go off the beaten track. You’ll see plenty of wildlife too, but not before you’ve been greeted by the geese! It’s a great place for history too with its very own medieval village if you’re into that sort of thing.
Llandaff Fields
I come here often to meet my sister. We walk the dogs around from Llandaff Fields to Bute Park and come back to Café Castan for a coffee and a bite to eat. It’s a dog-friendly café too so we can relax knowing that the dogs are welcome. My dad lived in a street adjacent to Llandaff Fields and I have fond memories of scorching hot summers at Blackweir Bridge, splashing in and out of the shallow water. The fields would be full of people with their picnic blankets, the smell of a throwaway BBQ never far away. The boys and I like to walk through the woods and skim stones on the river. It’s a beautiful place, full of wonderful wildlife, and it’s right on the doorstep of our city.
Cefn Onn
Another favourite of mine is Cefn Onn. It’s especially beautiful in the spring. The colours are just so pretty. It’s a little hidden gem in Lisvane - you probably wouldn’t
spot it if you didn’t know where it was. It's always quiet with the exception of dog walkers but it really is a lovely place to do a quick walk, with a lovely little stream running through it and plenty of picnic benches to park your bum and enjoy the lovely views.
Thompson's Park
When I was younger, my mum decided to have the house renovated so we moved in with my uncle for a while on Radnor Road. I loved being there with my uncle and all my cousins but what I loved most was the park at the end of the street - Thompson’s Park. It's a lot like Cefn Onn, but smaller. The park boasts beautiful flowerbeds and a lovely little lake to feed the ducks. As a kid, I loved all the different paths and hiding places - it reminded me of a big secret garden. I still love coming here with the kids - they seem to do exactly what I used to and head straight for the trees!
Barry Island
I’ve been coming to this beautiful place since there was a Butlins. My dad used to get us in for free because he was a fireman. It’s been a firm favourite ever since. Butlins is now long gone but there are still remnants of the tacky seaside holiday vibe it left behind - and I love it! The fresh doughnuts, the 2p machines, the feeling of excitement getting my bag of coppers - and watching those tickets come out of the machine so that I could buy something way under the value of what I had spent. Still, it was the best and it still is. I prefer it in the winter when it’s less packed. A hot cup of coffee to warm the hands and a brisk walk in the fresh sea air does me the world of good. You can follow Laura's blog at www.picturethepositive.com
23
2
1
3
n o i t a r i p s g n i r p S 5
4
1. Harlequin Kelapa wallpaper £65 per roll Truly bring in the outdoors by pairing this luscious cheeseplant leaf wallpaper with natural wood accessories. From Haus, Rhiwbina
24
Inspirational ideas to freshen up your home for spring
2. Harlequin Zapara Fabrics Collection from £38 per metre These vibrantly beautiful bespoke cushions can be made to order in a selection of fresh Spring colours and designs. From Haus, Rhiwbina
3. Three drawer sideboard with baskets £199 If you are looking for storage and a beautiful piece of furniture in one, this unit will lighten up any space. From Cardiff Bed & Furniture Centre, Whitchurch
4. Peace Lily from £1.99 Known for its brilliant white flowers, this stunning plant will brighten up those dark corners of your room. Available in three sizes. From Pugh's Garden Centre, Radyr
5. Lemon Tree £35 Add a Mediterranean touch to your home. Citrus trees are perfect for the kitchen or the conservatory - and handy for those G&Ts! From Secret Shed, Rhiwbina
n
home interiors
7
6
8 9
10 6. Eichholtz Helios Mirror £450 The stainless steel spokes of this mirror are enhanced by a luxe golden finish. Use the design to bring a touch of warm opulence to your space. From www.luxdeco.com
7. Romo Floris Wallpaper £70 per roll (wide width) A fluid movement of design and colour create a montage of beautiful blossoms that appear to be effortlessly blowing in a spring breeze. From Curtain Raisers, Whitchurch
8. Set of 3 Wooden Geese £39.99 This trio of cheeky geese will remind you of a spring walk around Roath Park Lake without the worry of being pecked! From Cardiff Bed & Furniture Centre, Whitchurch
9. Milano Corner Chaise Sofabed £799 A stylish corner sofa that converts easily into a double bed with a hidden storage compartment. From Cardiff Bed & Furniture Centre, Whitchurch
10. Elana Ceramic Table Lamp Tropical Print £102 Bring the flowers of spring into your home with this vibrant botanicalprint table lamp to create a stunning centrepiece. From Curtain Raisers, Whitchurch
25
CURTAINS BLINDS WALLPAPER PAINT RUGS ACCESSORIES
haus
6c heol-y-deri rhiwbina cf14 6hf www.haus-cardiff.co.uk 02920 611372
Win TICKETS TO THE RHS FLOWER SHOW The annually anticipated floral spectacular, RHS Flower Show Cardiff, will return to the city this April embracing Visit Wales’ Year of the Sea and highlighting the sensational Welsh coastline with a host of themed gardens, related features and activities to spark the imagination. A fun day for all the family, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) – the UK’s leading gardening charity - has revealed an exciting line-up for 2018, bringing vibrant Show Gardens, floral displays, interactive activities and brand new Regeneration Gardens to the grounds of the Welsh capital’s Bute Park from 13th–15th April. Show gardens include Evergreen Wales - Cardiff-based father and son duo Richard and Adam Davis – who will reconstruct the Welsh mountains with ‘Cwm Caerdydd’, using materials entirely sourced from Wales, highlighting everything they love about the Welsh
landscape. Showcasing a functional space for professional couples looking for a contemporary and green design requiring minimal maintenance, Bridgend College returns with firsttime designer Petra Kodurand to create ‘Suburban Euphoria’. The National Museum of Wales will be presenting mini laboratories in glass greenhouses for its fifth time at the show. Focusing on three areas of science and horticulture, the greenhouses will represent three of the seven museum sites: Big Pit National Coal Museum, National Museum Cardiff and National Waterfront Museum, each with interactive activities. Other interactive features include RSPB Cymru alongside Cardiff City Council and Buglife who will be joining forces to recreate Cardiff Bay from a swift’s bird’s eye view. Continuing the success of the RHS Greening Grey Britain campaign, the Regeneration Gardens will
show how small interventions with modest budgets can make significant changes to gardens and outdoor spaces. The Floral Marquee and Plant Village will also be bursting with 60 top-quality nurseries for visitors to grab their seasonal plants, with plenty of take-home ideas to celebrate this spring. You can win a pair of tickets to this year's flower show by answering this very simple question:
Hilarious Geordie comic Chris Ramsey is back at St David’s Hall for the third year running on Thursday 12th July. His last two tours have delved into how he has adjusted to adulthood, and now he’s Just Happy to Get Out of the House! As one of the UK’s brightest young comic talents, Chris is as typically busy as ever. In addition to being a regular on popular panel show Celebrity Juice, he’s now the host of Stand Up Central too. Chris is also a familiar face on popular programmes such as I’m A Celebrity: Extra Camp, 8 Out of 10 Cats, Never Mind the Buzzcocks, Mock the Week, Soccer AM, Live at the Apollo, Virtually Famous and Russell Howard's Good News. Ever the versatile star, he’s turned his hand to acting too in the BBC comedy series Hebburn, which revolves around a couple of newlyweds living in a Tyne & Wear town.
Win tickets to see CHRIS RAMSEY in concert at st davids hall
Where will this year's RHS Flower Show be taking place? Email the correct answer, along with your name, address and telephone number to competitions@livingmags.co.uk or post your entries to our address on the inside front cover of this magazine. Closing date is Friday 6th April. For more information or to buy advance tickets, visit www.rhs.org.uk/cardiff.
To be in with a chance of winning a pair of tickets, please complete the title of Chris Ramsey’s new tour – Just Happy to Get Out of the... a) Flat b) House c) Bungalow Please email your answer to SDHpress@cardiff.gov.uk by Monday 25th June 2018 along with your full name and address, plus a phone number.
27
Chambers Featured Property
Address: Heol Iestyn, Whitchurch Price: £425,000 Features: A thoughtfully extended and renovated detached bungalow, which offers a superb open plan living room, dining room and kitchen area with bi-folding doors to the rear patio and garden, three double bedrooms, one with an en-suite shower room and a family bathroom. Offered with no chain.
Want to view these properties? Just give us a call on 029 2052 2106
Chambers Estate Agents
35 Merthyr Road, Whitchurch, Cardiff CF14 1DB 02920 522106 www.chambersestateagents.co.uk
Address: Heol y Gors, Whitchurch Price: £425,000 Features: Expertly refurbished and extended 4 bedroom bay fronted semi-detached family home situated on one of Whitchurch’s most popular residential locations in close proximity to the local schools, amenities and public transport links. An absolute must-see.
Recliner Chair Centre
An award-winning, family firm, established for over 40 years
We all have a favourite place to sit in our homes, whether it’s our seat at the dinner table, our spot on the sofa, or the plush chair in the living room. Unfortunately, for many of us, there comes a time in our life when our favourite chair no longer gives us the support we need. That's where the Recliner Chair Centre in Heath can help
For more than 40 years, the Recliner Chair Centre has been providing the UK with the highest quality electric and leather recliner chairs. The story behind the business reveals the true extent of its first-class customer service. “We’ve been in these premises for 35 years and been in business for 40,” says owner Alun Williams proudly. "I was one of the first to bring rise and recliners into the UK and helped develop this product for a number of manufacturers in Wales and England. Our experience and knowledge has resulted in us claiming to be the UK's leading showroom retailer of the vast differences and ranges of actions used on this type of chair." At first, the chairs were made in Talbot Green but as it wasn’t deemed a safe place for their customers to visit, Alun decided to
look for a showroom. "We finally found our spot here in Heath after I visited someone in UHW and saw a For Sale sign on the building. It was exactly what we were looking for and gave us a presence in the local community." The floor area showcases over 100 products and more lift and recline chairs than anywhere else. "We used the opportunity to move to major brands. We embraced
Parker Knoll, Sherborne, Celebrity and Cintique, but stock all major brands for optimum choice." Every chair on display has to 'earn its place' by showing a different variation of size and mechanisms. "Lift and recline chairs now account for over 80% of our business and over the last six years, we have also sold the wonderful Sherborne motorised bed in all its variables. The bed essentially uses the same generic type of linear motors on which our expertise is founded - crossing the disciplines
31 St Anthony Road, Heath Cardiff, CF14 4DF Sponsored feature
of engineering and upholstered furniture. I think this is why any new customers usually give us a pyramid of recommendations and therefore further sales," says Alun. Their genuine commitment to customer service is backed up with the fact that members of staff don't receive commission on sales. "We have heard terrible stories about people buying chairs at obscene prices or with a free offer of a bed, but if something goes wrong, there's often no ongoing support. Our team can offer their extensive knowledge about the products we display including the variety of rise and recline chairs available. Sue has been here for 20 years and Chris for well over a decade. "It’s in our nature to look after our customers. We've been here for such a length of time that we see people again and again over the years. It's lovely to deal with people and have that ongoing relationship with them."
02920520808
www.reclinerchaircentre.co.uk
Upcycle My
DIY
Garden
As spring blooms, it's time to throw open the doors and step outside into the garden. Here are some upcycling ideas to turn unwanted junk into unique and eye-catching garden pieces Jewelled Jars
Chest of drawers
Clean the drawers with some TSP. You can buy this from most DIY stores. You will then need to paint your drawers with two coats of outdoor paint. Line the inside of the drawers with black bin liners and cut holes out for drainage. Finally, add some bricks to the back of the drawers, and then fill with soil and flowers.
30
Garden Chandelier
Who says that chandeliers are for indoors only? Take an old chandelier, preferably a metal one, and paint to the colour of your choice. Next, you'll need to drill some small holes in the base of each section for drainage. To add the lighting, source some solar-powered outdoor lights. Aim to get individual globe ones with stems that can be removed and can then be fitted neatly onto the top of each stem of your chandelier. You may need some glue to stick the lights on securely. It's then a case of hanging your chandelier somewhere where it can soak up plenty of sunlight during the daytime so that it can light up once the sun goes down.
You will need two or three jars with lids on. You will also need around 80 flat-bottomed marbles, that you can find at most hobby stores or online. You will most likely find some small marbles included - keep these to fill in any gaps after you've used the larger ones. Place the jar upside down on a table. Use clear silicone sealant (the type you'd seal guttering with) to smother the outside of each jar to about 1/4 inch thickness. Apply the marbles, flat side against the outside of the jar, from bottom to top, and leave to dry. Finally, punch a hole in the lid of the jar and screw it to a wooden post. Attach the jar to its lid when dry and place in garden.
outdoors Bicycles
Metal Owls
You can brighten up your garden and add a good measure of interest by making these metal owls from old kitchen materials. You will need a few tools to get you going - metal cutters, a vice, pliers, a hot glue gun and glue sticks, a cordless drill and some screws. You can use old saucepan lids, strainers and cheese graters but for this example, an old tin lid will form the basis of the owl. Place a cake or a biscuit lid on a work surface. Play around with the positions of the eyes and beak until you get them just right. Large metal lids, which will form the background of the eyes, should be placed on the top half of the body, just overlapping the outside edge. Place a spoon in between the eyes to create a beak. Using metal cutters, remove the scoop section from two spoons. Place the narrow end of each handle into a vice and twist with some pliers to bend (these will form your owl’s eyebrows). Leave one set of eyes in place to act as a positional guide. Remove the other set of eyes and using a hot glue gun, attach a large metal lid, flat side down. Repeat for the other eye. Glue a medium metal lid in place, flat side up, then follow that with a small plastic lid with the flat side down. Glue a metal washer and a metal button on top of each other inside each small plastic lid. Repeat for the other eye. Glue a metal spoon between the eyes so its scoop section forms the owl’s beak. Glue bent spoon handles to the top edge of the eyes to form eyebrows. Finally, to create an owl perch, secure a tree branch to a fence or shed wall using screws. Position the owl so its base rests on the perch, then mark and drill a hole through the tin lid (between the spoon handles is best). Screw the owl to the fence.
Miniature Herb Garden
Breathe new life into old kids' toys by turning this old kids' wagon into a miniature herb garden. Easyto-grow basil, thyme, parsley, rosemary and chives have similar water and sun needs, making a nice array when planted side by side. You'll first need to drill some holes in the bottom of the wagon for drainage. Line the wagon with a 1 inch layer of gravel to improve drainage and keep the holes from clogging. Finally, add potting soil, stopping 1 inch below the wagon's lip. Plant herbs with similar water and sun needs and top with mulch. Then wheel to a sunny spot and watch your new garden grow.
Filing Cabinet Turned Garage Tidy
You can file your garden tools and equipment in an old filing cabinet albeit in a slightly different way. Remove all the drawers from the cabinet, sand the sides down and paint to a colour of your choosing. If you'd like to add functionality to the side of your new garage tidy, you can attach a pegboard to one end. You can then attach hooks and pegs to this to enable you to hang things.
It's difficult to talk about upcycling in the garden without talking about bicycles and tyres. Bicycles have become a well-used method of decorating gardens - and for good reason too. A retired bike can be an interesting piece of art in your garden and a reminiscent piece of your past. Practically, it can also be a place for flowerpots and even a useful construction for the plants, like vines, to hold on to. You can place your bike idly, surrounded by a flowerbed or go vertical and hang it on your fence. It is sure to be noticed.
Tyres
Old tyres can be stacked in a pile and used in the garden to form small garden beds for vegetables and flowers. These mini–gardens require less water and the black rubber absorbs heat from the sun. In addition, the soil warms up faster when it is above the ground. This additional heat stimulates the growth of the plants. You can be first in the village to have fresh tomatoes all year round! Herbs, peppers, potatoes and other crops are also perfect for this.
Smaller tyres like bicycle wheels can be used as a way to separate your flowerbed or vegetable garden from unwanted company. Old tyres can also be used for more fun things - with a little imagination, they can be turned into art forms. Or if it's just pure fun that you're after, why not turn it into a swing with a bit of old rope? Who says that adults can't have fun too?
31
greenmoor nurseries
Providing full tree, grounds and estate maintenance and landscaping services.
suppliers of top quality plants throughout the year
South Wales’s largest grower and supplier of home-grown plants for your garden. We have a large range of vegetable 3 plants and flower plants. We also ba g s o f stock loose seeds, award-winning c ompos t fo r hanging baskets, a full range of £1 2 composts, greenhouse glass and perspex, perennials, shrubs, fruit trees and much much more. Visit our website for more details or call. Bring your children to see our army tanks! Toughened greenhouse glass now in stock!
We’re very proud of what we do for our clients and like most people who work in nature we spend a lot of time on our knees in one way or another. This is always humbling. Now, whether you call it humility or respect or admiration for nature, if you’re looking to work with a company that cares about these things TR33 could be what you’re after.
For a free no obligation quote please contact
0800 298 3686 I info@tr33.co.uk www.tr33.co.uk
www.greenmoornurseries.co.uk Greenmoor Nurseries St. Brides, Wentloog Newport NP10 8SQ TEL: 01633 680572
The only
fence that won’t
warp • crack • shrink • rot • peel • break • blow over
COLOURFENCE
VIRTUALLY MAINTENANCE FREE
Nothing lasts forever. Particularly timber fencing. That’s why Colourfence (with its 25 year guarantee†) is popping up in gardens all over the UK.
Protect against Winter, prepare for Spring!
I’ve wasted countless days and a small fortune, trying to repair and maintain tired wooden fences that looked dreadful and always required yet more work. Discovering Colourfence has changed things forever! It’s scientifically tested and rated to ensure when professionally installed it can withstand wind gusts of up to 130mph. This year when my neighbours are facing post-storm repair bills and maintenance, I’ll be relaxing in the warm as Colourfence is virtually maintenance free. As Colourfence offers a lasting solution to fencing woes, it’s easy to see why many regard it as the premier steel fencing solution on the market. Colourfence won’t rot and it resists weather that quickly
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL EXPERT
†
Anna Ryder Richardson
Designer and Television Presenter turns the spotlight on the best garden fencing solution in the UK today.
“
I honestly believe that † Colourfence is the best general purpose fencing product on the market today!
damages wooden fences; it has none of the drawbacks of wood but plenty of added benefits and it’s better value too! High quality AND great value – it’s a customisable product with a variety of colours and styles offering a first rate finish. The materials and fitting are so good that Colourfence is guaranteed† for 25 years! To find out how Colourfence might benefit you and arrange your free, no obligation quote, I strongly suggest you call one of their helpful experts.
“
...well for 25 years, at least!
THE COLOURFENCE PROMISE Virtually maintenance free Saves time and money – no annual treating required Guaranteed† for up to 25 yrs Unbeatable value Range of colours & sizes Professional installation
For a FREE no-obligation site visit please call Jon Angle
Cardiff 02921 660311
†Terms and conditions apply - full details available on request
or online www.Colourfence
I LOW MA
C O LO U R F E N C E
NCE NTENA
DITED ACCRE PROFESSIONAL
INSTALLATION
Get 15% OFF all STIHL cordless product s and accessories with discount code: LivingSpring**
Create your own
Ready, set, mow. Make quiet work of cutting the lawns with the magical STIHL COMPACT Cordless Power System. The RMA 339 C cordless mower is perfect for lawns up to 300 m2, with an automatic eco mode for
maximum efficiency and a battery that works with all seven tools in our COMPACT range. It also features our innovative foldable mono comfort handlebar making it easy to use and store.
Contact or visit Phoenix Hire and Sales Ltd for more information.
**Offer expires on 30th April 2018.
£199
*
*The STIHL COMPACT Cordless tools shown above start from £199 including battery and charger.
Phoenix Hire & Sales Ltd. Unit 2, Taffs Fall Trade Park, Taffs Fall Road, Treforest Industrial Estate, Pontypridd CF37 5TF. Tel: 01443 806796 | Email: mail@phoenix-hire-sales.co.uk
The STIHL COMPACT cordless garden range from
March ni to Spring Spring is a time of renewal, hope and a dappling of colour. But Kevin Revell reminds us that planning a spring garden starts way back in the autumn
S
pring flowering bulbs are planted in autumn but those who had the foresight to invest in some will by now, be rewarded with a host of golden daffodils, or at least a pot or two of tulips if your garden is more modest. The arrival of spring is announced to the world by a fanfare of golden trumpets of daffodils and narcissi – the only difference is one of scale; we tend to regard the large flowers of daffodils as distinct from the smaller flowers of narcissi but botanically speaking, they are one and the same. True daffodils, when they finally burst into flower are a joy to behold and really lift the
34
spirits but it can still be quite cold when they flower; strong winds will often blow the tall flowers over, spoiling the display. Varieties such as ‘Carlton’ and ‘Dutch Master’ are well regarded and grow to over 50cm. Wales has a particular affinity with the daffodil; it is after all, our national flower and is usually in flower for St David’s Day on 1st March. Very often, a cold spell of weather in February will delay flowering for a week or two, so it pays to have an insurance policy – pots of bulbs can be brought on early in a greenhouse or conservatory, or you could choose from a range of narcissi which naturally flower early. The popular variety ‘Tête à Tête’ is compact in size at only 15cm and is early into flower, making it a fine choice for pots and containers. Similar varieties include ‘Jetfire’ with a bright orange trumpet and the
narrow flowered ‘February Gold’. The Tenby Daffodil or Narcissus obvalaris is understandably popular in these parts and is believed to be native to Wales. Some claim that the sight of the first snowdrop signals the arrival of spring but they are better described as the last flowers of winter and indeed are often seen peeping out through a covering blanket of snow. Crocuses likewise flower early and do nothing to encourage winter coats to be packed away for the year. Their appearance is welcome but not a true indicator of spring. Some maintain that spring can only be rung in with celebratory peals of bluebells which carpet the floor of ancient woodlands in April. If you are lucky, they will have a vestigial presence in your garden but more often than not, these will be the introduced Spanish
gardens
bluebell which out-compete and cross breed with our native flower. Cultivated British bluebells are available from garden centres as growing plants in the green now and as dry bulbs in autumn. Early flowering bulbs are an important source of pollen and nectar for early foraging bees as they emerge from hibernation. Primroses and winter heathers will encourage them but bees are often found visiting a variety of spring bulbs. One of the best in this regard is the grape hyacinth which can become an invasive weed in open ground but is good running along the base of hedgerows. It flowers reliably when grown in pots and containers. Most bulbs fade away and become progressively less productive over a number of years when grown in poor conditions, short of light and nutrients. Open, sunny conditions in fertile welldrained soil is ideal and a good feed with balanced fertiliser after flowering will build up the bulbs before the foliage dies back in summer. Bulbs are best left undisturbed in the soil rather than being disturbed each year and benefit from deep planting – at least twice the depth of the bulb to avoid accidentally
damaging them. By the time the tulips are out, spring is well and truly sprung. Early Darwin tulips are the traditional wineglass shape and grow tall, flowering in a range of bright colours such as yellow and red. The deep purple variety ‘Queen of the Night’ is also a tall flowering type which flowers later in early May, reaching a height of 60cm. Lily flowered tulips have a charm of their own with a narrow waist and pointed petals. The bright orange ‘Ballerina’ is a good example along with the aptly named, richlycoloured ‘Burgundy’; each can grow to 50cm. Sunny spring days will encourage tulip flowers to fully open with the petals widely reflexed, only as the sun goes down do they assume the classic tulip shape. If wind or lack of space is a problem, there are plenty of dwarf forms to choose from, including the popular ‘Red Riding Hood’ at only 20cm. Even those with no gardens can enjoy spring flowering bulbs as some will grow perfectly well on a windowsill and will flood the house with their scent as they open. Hyacinths have long been grown in this way while a type of daffodil known as 'Paperwhite' is ideal for indoor cultivation. Amaryllis bulbs
make a spectacular house plant – a bulb as big as a prize Spanish onion sends up a thick flowering stem up to 50cm tall. Autumn may be the traditional time to buy and plant spring flowering bulbs but if you didn’t get around to it, you could call in to your local garden centre where salvation is at hand with pot grown bulbs available to buy. These can be enjoyed in planted containers or popped into borders wherever an injection of spring colour is required. Of course, the selection available in autumn is much greater and offers better value for money but that was then and this is now sometimes we act on impulse, seeing such beguiling beauty in the spring sunshine. Growing bulbs is easy and the arrival of their flowers in spring is a seasonal treat that is long anticipated and will banish the winter blues for another year. The more you grow, the better the display and with careful planning, the display can be extended over many months. So go on – make an autumn date in the diary to make your investment for next spring! Kevin Revell is the Plant Area Manager at Caerphilly Garden Centre
35 35
Vibrant Gardens
Regular Mowing and Gardening Service • • • • • • •
Regular lawn mowing Professional garden maintenance Lawn feed, weed and moss control Hard surface jet washing Scarification and power raking Hedge and shrub pruning Driveway weed and moss control
Everything you need to have that well-manicured garden Call Stuart on 07779 132149 for a free quote www.vibrant-gardens.co.uk 19 Mayflower Avenue, Llanishen Cardiff CF14 5HP
The Oaks Garden Nursery is a social enterprise that provides work-based opportunities for people with learning disabilities.
V21.org.uk
Charity no. 1046097
PRW Construction are a family run business with over 32 years of experience within the building and construction industry, references available. Our company is a progressive family run business, offering a variety of building and maintenance services. We recognise the importance of planning and control in the execution of building projects, whilst using a great deal of creativity and innovation in successfully managing projects to your timescales and your costs. Some of the services we offer:
Contact us for your free quotation Andrew 07718 621716 Rachael 07753 293444 Office 02920 842333 www.prwconstruction.co.uk enquiries@prwconstruction.co.uk
• House extensions • House refurbishments • Luxury bathrooms • Design and architectural services • Full structural design services
• • • •
Building repairs Garage conversions Roof repairs Plumbing and heating • Painting and decoration • Electrical works • Patio & garden works
pets
Your pet questions answered
Chris Troughton is clinical director of Heath Vets. He’s here to answer all your pet questions. If you’d like to ask Chris a pet-related question, drop us a line I was reading in recent newspapers about pet obesity and it’s made me think twice about giving my dog titbits from the table. He’s a 5 year old bulldog and does now seem to be slowing down from the excitable little dog that he used to be. Do you recommend any specific diet or do I stop feeding him titbits? Obesity is certainly a big problem for many pets these days and it is an important factor in arthritis, heart/breathing problems, and diabetes in cats - all of which can be life-limiting issues. We all love to indulge our pets, but you have to keep a watch on their waistlines, and if they start to bulge, you have to cut back. I'm happy to confess that my dogs get loads of treats all day (starting with their own toast at breakfast!) - but I keep them lean by exercising plenty, and if necessary by cutting down on their treats and their dinners. Bulldogs are one of those breeds that are quite prone to putting on weight, and because they usually already have some breathing difficulties (due to their squashed faces), this can be a serious issue for them. So if you are concerned, take action now by reducing his total calorie intake. You can do that by cutting out treats altogether, but that's quite hard on both of you. Instead, I would reduce the titbits, and perhaps change to giving him raw carrots or apples - many dogs love the crunch! At the same time, I would reduce the calories in his proper meals, either by reducing the quantity you give, or by changing to a low-calorie (or 'light' ) version of his normal food. For dogs with serious obesity problems, there are some excellent 'prescription' weight-loss diets made by many of the top brands like Hills or Royal Canin. If you are having difficulty controlling his weight, many vets have weight clinics to help you.
How concerned should we be about Alabama Rot? A friend of mine in the north of England said that a local dog was recently put down because it contracted this disease. And how do we know if our dog has picked it up? Alabama Rot is a relatively new condition which has been recognised in the UK only since 2012, although cases were seen in USA well before that (hence ‘Alabama’ rot). The condition starts with skin sores particularly on the paws and lower legs, but also on the face, body or tongue. These can look like weeping cuts or reddened sore areas, or ulcerated areas of skin. It is believed that many dogs recover from this form of the disease without serious consequences, but a small number go on to develop acute kidney injury and usually this is fatal. In spite of extensive research, at present we have no idea what causes Alabama Rot, although there any many theories. It appears that all affected dogs have been walked in muddy wooded areas, and most cases occur during the winter months. Because we don’t know the cause, it’s very difficult to know how to prevent the disease, but a sensible precaution would be to wash your dog down if he’s been for a walk in muddy woods. It is not believed to be infectious to other dogs, and people have not been affected. Alabama Rot is exceptionally uncommon in UK – up to May 2017, there had been only 94 confirmed cases, and 53 suspected. There have recently been a few more, and there have been six confirmed cases in Newport and one
in Tonypandy, but none in the Cardiff area. However, if you see any unexplained sores on your dog, it’s sensible to get your vet to take a look as soon as possible. Over the last 5 months, we’ve had a cat coming to our back door and wanting to come in the house. The cat doesn’t look ill-treated or malnourished but when it first started visiting, we did give it some food. The cat still keeps coming, even though we have stopped giving it food. At what point should I be concerned about the cat’s welfare and do I bring him/her (we can’t tell the difference!) to you? Cats are great opportunists and seem to be able to spot any ‘cat-friendly’ homes in their neighbourhood which they will visit for extra food or just for attention. So a cat visiting you is not necessarily a stray, and if he (she?) looks in good condition, and you are not feeding him now, it is likely that his real owner is caring for him. I would advise you to discourage the cat’s visits by not giving any attention, and particularly not feeding. I once lost a cat to a neighbour who insisted on feeding her; eventually she decided their home was preferable and she moved in with them. I can tell you that was quite upsetting!
Ffordd wahanol o roi i bobl sy'n gofyn cardod, sy'n ddigartref neu sydd mewn perygl o fod yn ddigartref yng Nghaerdydd. Bydd eich rhodd yn mynd i unigolion er mwyn darparu'r gefnogaeth iawn ar yr amser iawn.
Tecstiwch DIFF20 a'ch rhodd i 70070. CAERedigrwydd.cymru
A DIFFerent way to give to those who are begging, homeless or at risk of homelessness in Cardiff. Your donation will go to individuals to provide the right support at the right time.
Text DIFF20 and your donation to 70070. giveDIFFerently.wales
FORESTER
OUTBACK
WORLD CLASS SAFETY WITH THE SUBARU SUV RANGE. (BETTER where it MATTERS)
THE ALL-NEW XV
DISCOVER MORE AT James & Jenkins 14 Station Road, Llandaff North Cardiff CF14 2FF Telephone: 0292 060 6106 or visit jamesandjenkins-subaru.co.uk
SUBARU SUV RANGE Fuel consumption in MPG (l/100km): Urban 25.2-40.9; Extra Urban 40.4-58.9; Combined 33.2-50.4. CO2 Emissions 197-145g/km. MPG figures are official EU test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. 18292 James & Jenkins Subaru SUV Ad.indd 4
06/03/2018 15:18
outdoors
City Walk
Discover the history behind the familiar landmarks of our capital
Start your city walk at the Old Library on the Hayes. The library building opened in 1882 as a 'Free Library, Museum and School of Arts'. The Welsh inscription high on the south end of the building translates as 'He will not be wise who will not read.' Head over to Cardiff Market, which was built by Solomon Andrews, a local entrepreneur. The market subsequently became known as Solomon’s Temple. The market is built partly on the site of the old County Gaol. This is where Dic Penderyn was publicly hanged in 1831 for his alleged part in the riots in Merthyr. Turn right towards St. John's Church. This is the oldest church in the city centre and apart from parts of Cardiff Castle, is said to be the oldest building in Cardiff still in constant use. Turn left at the pasty shop and you will now head into
St Mary Street, the most important part of medieval Cardiff. On your right is High Street. Cross over into Quay Street, down towards the Principality Stadium. This road got its name in the days when it led down to the town quay on the River Taff before it was diverted. Womanby Street, on your right and just after the City Arms, probably pre-dates the Norman occupation and its name might be of Norse origin. The earliest known form of the name, from 1270, is Hundmanby – possibly meaning the 'dwelling of the houndsman'. You will now drop down into Westgate Street, opposite the imposing Principality Stadium. This street runs along what used to be the course of the River Taff. Isambard Kingdom Brunel was responsible for the deviation of the river, which was made to complete his Great Western Railway westwards. The bridge that carried the railway on to Swansea still stands today. The resulting area of land that was left from the diversion allowed the 3rd Marquess of Bute to donate the area to the use of sport. The area was originally called the Great Park but became known as Cardiff Arms Park, after a nearby coaching inn. Cricket was the first sport played here. The Principality Stadium (formerly the Millennium Stadium) was built on the site of the former Cardiff Arms Park stadium for the 1999 Rugby World Cup Final. Turn right and head up towards the Angel Hotel, traditionally the place for rugby fans to get together before a big match. There have been several Angel Taverns on or near this site over the years. During World War One, it became the USS Chattanooga when the US Navy took it over. Across the road, you will notice the stone animals perched on the wall. The wall was designed by architect Please take care while out walking and dress appropriately. Living Magazines Ltd cannot accept responsibility for your safety on this walk.
William Burges in 1866 and was originally built in front of the Castle. The wall was moved to its present position in 1925 when the road was widened. Now turn right into Castle Street. Over the road you can see the site of the West Gate of the old town wall. You will pass by Castle Arcade, which was built in 1887. Crossing back over St. Mary Street, and keeping the castle to your left, you'll will shortly pass Duke Street Arcade. Further on, you will approach the statue of Aneurin Bevan, erected in 1987. As you head further down Queen Street, you will pass The Friary on your left. Turn up here. Franciscan Friars founded a friary (where the tall tower block now stands) in 1280. Ghosts are rumoured to wander the area at night. As you reach the Hilton Hotel, you will reach the Friary Gardens where you will see a statue of the 3rd Marquess of Bute. Keeping the gardens on your left, pass under the underpass to reach City Hall, located in Cathays Park. City Hall was designed by architects Lanchester, Stewart and Rickards, costing £129,000 to build and was opened in 1906 following the granting of city status to Cardiff the previous year. Head around the City Hall Lawn to the right towards the Museum and then cut back down through the park towards the main road junction. Cross back over the road into Park Place where you will find the New Theatre, which celebrated its centenary in 2006. Head straight on to rejoin Queen Street and walk all the way up to the Aneurin Bevan statue. From here, you can turn left and head back down to the Library where you started your walk, now more knowledgeable about our capital's past.
39
DIRTY DRIVEWAY, DECK, PATIO OR PAVING? Like everything else about the house, from time to time your driveway, deck, patio or paving will benefit from a really good, professional clean…
You’l be ama l zed at the differen ce
After
FREE NO-OBLIGATION
QUOTATIONS
Before
Visit our website for more information and customer testimonials
Tel: 02920 700571 / 07767 310618 Email info@valejetclean.co.uk www.ValeJetClean.co.uk
• Painting • Brickwork • Plasterwork • Flooring • Windows & Doors • Gutter repairs & cleaning • Ceilings • Waterproofing • Paving
30+ years experience
• General Plumbing and Repairs • General Electrical & Repairs • Fencing • Walls • Security • Gates • Burglar Alarms • Cleaning • Refuse Removal
The Pugh Family would like to welcome you into our brand new Café Restaurant, The Orange Tree at Pugh’s Garden Village Wenvoe We serve rustic, traditional home-cooked food for breakfast, lunch and light bites from 9am-4:30pm (hot food served until 3pm). Our menu has a plethora of Gluten Free, Vegetarian and Vegan meals plus a versatile Children’s Menu, all freshly prepared in the Orange Tree Kitchen by our very own chef and where possible using locally sourced, Welsh produce. With the garden centre being at the heart of our business we want to become as sustainable as we can and help tackle the war on waste, so all our takeaway options including Coffee Cups are plastic free and 100% compostable! We’re also giving away any left-over Ground Coffee Beans for you to take home and use as a fertiliser in your garden!
029 2059 0913
www.pughsgardencentre.co.uk/wenvoe Pugh’s Garden Village, Port Road, Wenvoe, CF5 6AD
SAVOUR
EVERY MOMENT
With our delicious frozen meals and desserts, prepared by award-winning chefs and delivered free by your local team, you’ve more time to enjoy doing the things you love. For your free brochure visit wiltshirefarmfoods.com or call
029 2034 2008
OVER 300 DELICIOUS DISHES FREE FRIENDLY DELIVERY TRUSTED LOCAL SERVICE
WFF070 Local Press A5L v1.indd 1
19/01/2018 12:07
Spring Greens
Spring is a time of colour and renewal. These recipes will bring the freshness and vitality of a new season to your plate
Thai Green Vegetable Curry 175g brown basmati rice, rinsed 2 tsp coconut oil or olive oil 1 small white onion, diced 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh ginger (about a 1-inch nub of ginger, peeled and chopped) 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped pinch of salt ½ bunch asparagus, tough ends removed and sliced into 2-inch long pieces 3 carrots, peeled and sliced on the diagonal into ¼-inch wide rounds 2 tbsp Thai green curry paste 400ml full fat coconut milk 120ml water 1 ½ tsp coconut sugar or brown sugar 400g packed baby spinach, roughly chopped 1 ½ tsp rice vinegar or fresh lime juice 1 ½ tsp soy sauce handful of chopped fresh coriander and red pepper flakes, to taste ☐ To cook the rice, bring a large pot of water to the boil. Add the rinsed rice and continue boiling for
42
30 minutes, reducing the heat as necessary to prevent it bubbling over. Remove from the heat, drain the rice and return the rice to the pot. ☐ Cover and let the rice rest for 10 minutes or longer, until you’re ready to serve. ☐ Warm a large skillet with deep sides over a medium heat. Once it’s hot, add a couple teaspoons of oil. Cook the onion, ginger and garlic with a sprinkle of salt for about 5 minutes, stirring often. Add the asparagus and carrots and cook for 3 more minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the curry paste and cook, stirring often, for 2 minutes. ☐ Pour the coconut milk into the pan, along with 120ml of water and 1 ½ teaspoons of sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat and cook until the carrots and asparagus are tender and cooked through, about 5 to 10 minutes. ☐ Once the vegetables are done cooking, stir the spinach into the mixture and cook until the spinach has wilted, which will take about 30 seconds. Remove the curry from the heat and season it with rice vinegar and soy sauce. ☐ Add salt and red pepper flakes to taste. Divide the rice and curry into bowls and garnish with chopped coriander and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
food
Spring Greens Gnocchi 1 packet of gnocchi 1 tbsp olive oil 2 shallots, thinly sliced salt and freshly ground pepper 1 bunch of asparagus, chopped into 1 inch pieces 250g spring peas, thawed if frozen 125g grated Parmesan cheese (or dairy-free alternative) 60ml double cream (or dairy-free alternative) 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice red pepper flakes, for garnish ☐ Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil. Drop in the gnocchi and cook until done according to the instructions. Drain and lightly rinse with water and set aside. ☐ Heat a large skillet over a medium heat. ☐ Add the olive oil, the shallots and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the shallots for 2-3 minutes until the shallots are slightly soft. ☐ Add the asparagus and cook for 8-10 minutes until the asparagus is tender when forked. ☐ Add in the peas and the cooked gnocchi, cooking for a further 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through. ☐ Remove everything from the heat and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, the cream and the lemon juice. ☐ Stir to combine everything and add crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
Greek Vegetable and Pasta Salad
Gluten free pizza with spring vegetables
300g pasta of your choice, cooked and chilled 2 medium tomatoes, cored, seeded and cut into 1/2 inch dice 1 small cucumber, cut into 1/2 inch dice 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled 3 tbsp chopped fresh oregano 3 tbsp chopped fresh parsley 3 tbsp red wine vinegar 60ml olive oil salt and black pepper, to taste
150g gram flour 240ml water 1/2 tsp salt 300g passata 1 tsp nutritional yeast 1 garlic clove basil leaves 1/2 fennel bulb a few asparagus 1 leek 1 courgette a few mushrooms olive oil
☐ Toss all the ingredients into a large bowl, season with salt and pepper and serve chilled.
☐ Mix the flour, the water and the salt in a jug with a fork. Leave the mixture to rest for a few minutes. ☐ Place a baking sheet on a large baking tray. Pour the flour mixture onto the paper, into a circular shape if you can. ☐ Place the tray into the oven while you prepare the toppings. The base should take about 10-15 minutes to cook. The edges will start to brown. ☐ Mix the passata with the nutritional yeast in a bowl. Grate
the garlic into the passata, shred or tear the basil and add that in too. ☐ Using your peeler, shred a little of the fennel and put into a large bowl. Chop off about 2 inches from the bottom end of the asparagus. Roughly chop at a diagonal angle. Add this to the bowl. Finely slice the leek and add to the bowl. Cut the top and bottom off the courgettes. Using the peeler, shred into wide thin pieces. Add to the bowl. ☐ Finely slice the mushrooms but do not put these in the bowl yet. Add a splash of olive oil and a dash of salt to the bowl. Using your hands, mix this well and massage the oil into the veg. Now add the mushrooms and mix just a little. ☐ Take your base out of the oven if you haven’t already. Turn the oven up to 240°C. ☐ Top the base with the passata and add the vegetables. ☐ Put the pizza on the top shelf of the oven to cook. After 10 minutes, check the pizza. The vegetables should be starting to brown when ready.
43
Calling all Over 60s Keep Fit and Flexible with Rubicon Dance
Photograph taken by Sian Trenberth
After a recent successful taster session initiated by Julie Morgan, Rubicon will be running weekly dance sessions for over 60s. Where? Whitchurch Community Centre (Old Church Road) When? Every Monday from 1.30-2.30pm (term time) Gentle exercise to music for £3.50 per session.
All over 60s Welcome! Contact Sharon Teear:
Tel: 07868 258605 / 02920 491477
info@rubicondance.co.uk / www.rubiconcdance.co.uk
Become a Volunteer and brighten someone’s day
Contact Joanne for more information on: 029 2240 0030
or joanne.king@ageconnectscardiff.org.uk
DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS * Broken Glass Replacement * Misted Glass Replacement * Faulty/Broken Hinges, Locks, Doors, Handles * Patio Door Problems * Draughty/Leaking Windows, Doors, Conservatories * Catflaps, Letterboxes, New Door Panels
* Stained Glass Repairs and Replacements * Glass/mirrors of all types cut to size * uPVC New Windows/ Doors Installed * Upgrades to Locks and Handles * Fascias, Guttering, Cladding * Shop Fronts
Fensa Registered Company No: 31498
For a Free Quotation by a Reliable Competitive Company
Telephone Decorative Glass on
02920 566694
We can’t do it alone.
Decostains@aol.com www.doubleglazingrepairscardiff.co.uk
Unit 3 Western Business Centre, Robert St, Ely, Cardiff , CF5 5AS (formerly of Western Avenue, Llandaff)
1
Painting & Decorating Specialists
st ice
•
Cho
City & Guilds Qualified
Building & Property Maintenance Interior & Exterior Painting Wallpaper Hanging Carpentry & Decking Patios Plumbing
• • • • •
• • • •
Varnishing Small Building Work Tiling UPVC Gutters & Downpipes cleared (of all rubbish, debris, moss etc) Public Liability
•
Call Gary on
02922 472160 or 07717 154011 garywoldfield@hotmail.co.uk
International students of all ages
Hosts needed immediately! Contact us today for more information info@peartreelanguages.com 02920 342067 *DBS + suitabillity checks carried out for hosting under 18s
DO YOU LIVE IN CARDIFF OR PENARTH? YOU CAN EARN BETWEEN £85 - £500* PER WEEK WITH YOUR SPARE ROOM(S)
* Final payment depends on the number of students you host and the meals you provide
Mini, medium and long stay
Jane Clarke Hypnotherapy Help with weight loss, body confidence, self-confidence, relationship issues, smoking, addictions, fears, phobias & anxiety Appointments in Rhiwbina or online via Skype
janeclarkehypnotherapy.com jane@janeclarkehypnotherapy.com
Invacare Colibri Escape Lite 4mph Boot Scooter Wheelchair
119 £699 £200
Kingsley Riser/ Recliners
now
£
save £58
Range up to 9 miles. Many boot scooters 4mph and 8mph in stock
Toilet Seat & Surround Frame
NEW! As seen on TV
£
now
£
29.99
Folding 4 Wheel Walker now
Freestanding with pivoting base for better stability
279 £180
69 £20
now
239 £180
£
save on RRP
ex VAT
FREE
We also offer
Hearing Checks
Approved Dealer
now
£24. 95 ex VAT
Stylish and comfortable. Choice of designs
All prices ex VAT unless stated – ask us about VAT exemption. Whilst stocks last. *Selected lines
All prices ex VAT unless stated – ask us about VAT exemption. Whilst stocks last.
2a Merthyr Road, (Opposite the Whitchurch, CF14 1DG Plough Pub.)
02920 691 945
from
479
Double & King size also available
Lap Trays
now
Handy slip resistant head & magnet for picking up small magnetic objects.
Adjustable Beds
£
save on RRP
Easy Reacher
9
Single/Dual motors. Many models/colours
£
£
02920 028983
2nd Time Around specialise in house clearance We provide a professional and friendly service for full or part clearance, attics to cellars.
£
now
save on RRP
£ .95
499 save £150
now
Excel G-Logic Wheelchair
with seat and basket
Portable Bathlift Getting in and out of the bath is easy
45
save £20
now
Scooter and wheelchair waterproof capes, covers and bags available!
2nd
time around
now
save on RRP
House Clearances
www.amc.wales
SALE!
Hurrycane Folding Walking Stick
· Boiler Installation, breakdowns & services · Fuse board upgrades · Full bathroom installations ·All domestic electrical and plumbing work
27 Heol Cae Rhys, Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 6AP
07538 474807
Many styles now half price or less!*
Electricians · Plumbers · Heating Engineers
Scooters from only
11
£
.50 per week
If registered disabled you can use your motability allowance to buy a scooter or powerchair.
Over 850 items available by mail order catalogue
Stores open 9am-5pm Mon-Saturday
www.hearingandmobility.com Don’t delay! Offers only available whilst stocks last quote ‘local paper’ to qualify
We also offer the following services: • Reports for probate purposes • Valuations & advice on selling at auction • Auction service • Cleaning service • Sympathetic handling of deceased’s estates • Small removals & deliveries, nationwide • Rubbish removal • Recycling We comply with current legislation; we are waste management registered and have public liability insurance.
House Clearance Specialists www.houseclearancecardiff.com Contact: Jan Richards T: 02920 692704 M: 07715 622406 E: janrichards4@hotmail.co.uk W: www.houseclearancecardiff.com
The A-Z of Driving (in) North (Cardiff) Driving around North Cardiff can be a frustrating experience. Here's a humorous and not-so-entirely factual guide on what to expect if you take to the roads around our villages A470
At 186 miles long, the Cardiff to Glan Conwy Trunk Road as it's also known, connects Cardiff on the south coast to Llandudno on the north coast. It also connects motorists spiritually just outside Nantgarw, where grown men have been heard to sob collectively at the slow-moving traffic.
Birchgrove
Once a wondrous and breath-taking arboretum, Caerphilly Road has now been designated as an Area of Special Interest for Bus Lanes.
Coryton Roundabout
Possibly the largest roundabout in the world. Visible from space, it stretches for 34 miles and can hold up to a billion cars at anyone one moment.
Danescourt
When the estate was first built back in the 1980s, cars hadn't been invented and people used
46
to travel around the estate on horse and carts. Danescourt Way, the main road that loops around the estate is even older and was first laid out by the Romans. You can still make out some of the ancient city walls too - you can find them in the middle of Danescourt Way and if you're travelling at more than 30mph in your car, you'll know all about them as you pass over them.
Electric cars
These are the cars you won't hear as they approach. You'll also find that they are lighter than fuelpowered cars. Unless you get hit by one obviously.
Fines
If you've ever been hit with some kind of motoring fine, it's highly likely that you'll feel wronged in some way. Hurt even. But the annoying thing is - they're right. You've been VERY naughty.
Gabalfa Roundabout Commonly known as the Wacky Races. This roundabout is the hotbed of drag racing superstars,
each seeking to go from 0-30mph in the quickest time possible to avoid the car that comes bombing out of nowhere at the last minute.
High Street
Gone are the days when you can turn into Llandaff High Street and drive to the car park at the top in an easy and fairly relaxed manner. These days, you need to run the gauntlet of cars and goods vehicles parked on yellow lines, doddery and dithery older folk attempting to cross the road - and the deluge of traffic coming down the road in what has now become a single file road. The benches look nice though.
feature Ice
As we found out in March, driving on ice can be a tricky thing to master. Remember - always steer into the skid. Or is it the other way round? Only one way to find out!
usually filled in with Rice Krispies by the Highways Department when complaint levels reach a certain level. Also apparently.
Jaywalking
Quarrel
Karma
Roundabouts
An American term, describing the act of crossing or walking in the street or road unlawfully or without regard for approaching traffic. Schoolchildren are adept at this, especially along Merthyr Road between 3.30pm and 4pm on weekdays. Karma is when a motorist steals a parking space that isn't theirs, only to find themselves blocked in when they return to their vehicle.
Llantrisant Road
This scenic viewpoint allows motorists to pull up in rush hour and savour the views of the posh houses and the BBC. Spending an hour or so here in the mornings is good for the soul because it allows you to catch up on the things that you'd not normally have time to do - like read War and Peace or grow a beard.
Merthyr Road Whitchurch's jewel in the crown. Just don't get stuck behind a bus when there's a long queue of people waiting to get on it.
Names
Motorists often have names for other motorists who are driving around north Cardiff. Unfortunately, this is a family magazine and we can't reproduce any of those names here. Sorry.
Off-side
Those in the motor trade like to refer to the driver's side of the car as the offside. This is the opposite to nearside, which is near the driver's side but not on the offside, or the other side, off the nearside, off the road and near the offside. Not to be confused with the offside rule which is very confusing.
Potholes
They may look like giant craters but these holes are actually obstacles placed there by local council officials overnight to keep drivers alert. Apparently. They are
Also referred to as road rage. Often occurs when a motorist, clearly in a rush, pulls out on you at the last minute. They then proceed at no more than 15mph. There's a little roundabout near the Heathcock in Llandaff, and it holds back floods of traffic from three different directions. Motorists like to play a simple but devilishly exciting game here - motorists will arrive at the roundabout from three different directions all at once and stop. Then they all sit there and look at each other for about ten minutes, wondering who is going to go first. The tension is almost unbearable!
Self-driving cars
Back in the day of Tomorrow's World, we used to marvel at the fact that one day, we'd be watching more than four channels on TV. If Tomorrow's World was on TV today, they'd be talking about selfdriving cars, some of which will be programmed to drive like lunatics, just to keep the tradition of humanbased driving alive. And it'll be here before we know it.
Ty'n Y Parc Road
At several points during the working day, it's the biggest car park in north Cardiff. Want to turn into the Tesco garage? Ha! No way! I'm going to park right over the entrance so that NO-ONE can get in while I wait for the lights to change.
U-turn
This manoeuvre can often been seen by daring motorists at traffic lights on North Road.
Volvo
You can distinguish these cars from any other car by the fact that they've always got their headlights on. Always. Swedish government statistics on road traffic accidents showed that cars with lights on were involved in accidents
significantly less often. So the Swedish government made it law that cars had to have their lights on all the time. And guess where Volvos are made.
Western Avenue
Ah Western Avenue, so-called because it's the main thoroughfare of Western civilisation. It was once the only link between the Western world and the Far East. Now used by people wanting to get to Tesco for a ready meal.
Xenon headlights
Also referred to as High Intensity Discharge (or HID) headlights, they offer a crisp, whitish-blue light that illuminates the road far ahead. They can also temporarily blind any other motorist heading in the opposite direction at a distance of two miles.
Yoga
Yes, car yoga is a real thing. Perhaps one of the most popular positions is The Slug, where the motorist sits motionless for up to half an hour at a time. See also Llantrisant Road.
Zebra Crossings
Usually found located a few metres away from a busy roundabout, causing no end of chaos on the said roundabout when someone decides to step out onto the said zebra crossing. Happy Motoring!
47
Your Local Window & Door Specialists with over 30 years experience
BRING THE BEAUTY OF THE OUTDOORS INDOORS
Installed from
7 DAYS!
All pictures featured are our own work
WINDOWS | DOORS | BI-FOLDING DOORS www.cardiffwindows.com T: 02920 692690 E: info@cardiffwindows.com Unit 8, Fieldway, Heath, Cardiff, CF14 4HY
VISIT OUR SHOWROOM IN HEATH Please call to book an Appointment