Cowbridge Town Guide 2016 by Heritage Guides

Town Guide 2016-17

COWBRIDGE

COWBRIDGE TOWN COUNCIL www.cowbridge-tc.gov.uk

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Jane Hutt AM Labour Assembly Member for the Vale of Glamorgan jane.hutt@wales.gov.uk

01446 740981 / 0300 2007110 www.janehutt.co.uk follow Jane on Facebook & Twitter @JaneHutt Regular surgeries held throughout the Vale

• House buying and selling • Wills, Trusts and Probate • Divorce and Family Law • Commercial Property • Business Law • Professional Negligence • Commercial Litigation • Agricultural Law Cowbridge 01446 771 742

Cardiff Pontypridd Caerphilly

029 2022 5472 01443 408455 029 2086 0628

www.glamlaw.co.uk

Robert E. Lloyd Optometrists

Your Local EYE HEALTH PROFESSIONALS at 49 High Street Cowbridge Telephone 014 4677 3191 also

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310 Heathwood Road Cardiff CF14 4HT Telephone (029) 2075 4087

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Freephone:

0800 458 6156 HD CCTV systems & intruder alarms installed for business and the home. • Single point of contact 24/7 for all support needs • Remote viewing software • SSAIB certified company with over 15 years experience • HD video provides indisputable and instantaneous evidence • Over 600 satisfied current clients • Remote site monitoring with police response

T: 01446 775352 | F: 01446 775809 | E: dave@cameratech.info Foxleigh House, Trerhyngyll, Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan, CF71 7TN

www.cameratechprojects.co.uk

www.osullivanopticians.co.uk

01446 772719

• All types of eye examinations underataken, from emergency to home visits, including through the medium of Welsh • All contact lens services • Wide range of frame & lens choices • Competitively priced sunglass ranges Professional service with excellent customer care

Expert personal legal advice in Cardiff, London and Cowbridge Renowned for many years as experts in all aspects of family and divorce law, Hopkins Law is now held in the highest esteem by competitors and clients alike as an all-round law firm with specialists dedicated to helping you in all areas of your personal life. Whatever is going on in your life, we’ll give you the very best legal advice from our team of experienced specialist lawyers in a sensitive, friendly and approachable way. We’ll work with you to find a solution to whatever legal problem you are facing. Cowbridge office: 50-50A High Street CF71 7AH

Cowbridge office: 01446 774 151 Cardiff office: 029 2039 5888 London office: 020 7788 7819

I N T R O D U C T I O N

WELCOME TO COWBRIDGE - CROESO I'R BONTFAEN Ar ran Cyngor y Dre a thrigolion y Bontfaen gyda Llanfleiddan ac Aberthin, hoffwn estyn croeso i chi. Mae'r Bontfaen yn dref farchnad mewn lleoliad prydferth ym Mro Morgannwg. Ymfalchïwn nid yn unig yn ein hanes sydd yn ymestyn yn ôl dros 800 o flynyddoedd, ond hefyd yn ein presennol sydd yn cynnig cymysgedd o atyniadau hen a chyfoes gan gynnwys Castell Sain Quentin yn Llanfleiddan neu’r Ardd Berlysiau yng nghanol y dref, heb sôn am yr atyniadau eraill di-ri megis siopau, bwytai a thafarndai a welir yn y llawlyfr yma. Mawr hyderwn y mwynhewch eich ymweliad boed hwnnw am ddiwrnod yn unig neu efallai am gyfnod hirach ac y byddwch yn ymweld â ni eto cyn bo hir. Y Cynghorydd Dave Morris - Maer

INTRODUCTION TO COWBRIDGE

owbridge is a small, historic market town which, before the 19th century, was in fact the biggest for miles, eclipsing Bridgend, Cardiff and the virtually non-existent Barry. Nowadays, by contrast, it is known for its intimate scale and has found a new role as a stylish and pleasant shopping location, as well as continuing to function as a close knit and bustling community. It has a close relationship with the village of Llanblethian to the south, to which it is now connected by continuous development, and the smaller village of Aberthin to the north, both of which are within the administrative area of Cowbridge with Llanblethian Town Council (the two separate councils were amalgamated for practical reasons in 1982). The town occupies a valley near the source of the River Thaw. The population of the community is around 4,250 out of a total 121,000

inhabitants in the Vale of Glamorgan unitary authority as a whole. Cowbridge nevertheless retains a strategic significance beyond its size since it is the main commercial centre for a large slice of the rural Vale. Almost all the businesses are on or just off the long and gently meandering High Street which was once the main thoroughfare from South East Wales to the west until the A48 bypass was built and then the M4.

Contents A potted history..........................................6 Local History Room.....................................6 Town Hall....................................................7 Cowbridge & District Museum.....................7 Cowbridge Town Trust; CADS.......................9 Town buildings..........................................10 Shopping; festivals....................................11 Stalling Down...........................................11 Street index...............................................15 Map.................................................... 16-17 St Quentin's Castle; chapels.......................18 Famous names..........................................18 Churches...................................................19 Parks and gardens.....................................20 Villages.....................................................21 Local information................................ 25-27 Clubs & societies................................. 28-30 Advertisers index......................................32 The Cowbridge Town Guide has been produced on behalf of Cowbridge Town Council by Heritage Guides ©2015. This publication is copyright and may not be used, reproduced, copied or transmitted in any form, in part or in whole without the prior permission of the publishers. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that all the information contained in this publication is correct at the time of going to print, neither Heritage Guides nor Cowbridge Town Council can accept any responsibility for unintentional errors or omissions. Cowbridge with Llanblethian Town Council, Town Hall, Cowbridge CF71 7AD T: 01446 773385 F: 01446 773385 E: enquiries@cowbridge-tc.gov.uk W: www.cowbridge-tc.gov.uk Heritage Guides, 7 Romilly Road, Barry CF62 6AZ T: 01446 405298 E: info@heritage-guides.com W: www.heritage-guides.com

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On behalf of the Town Council and Residents of Cowbridge with Llanblethian and Aberthin, welcome. Cowbridge is a Market Town in the beautiful setting of the Vale of Glamorgan. We are extremely proud not only of our ancient past which stretches back over 800 years, but also of today with our mixture of ancient and modern attractions such as St Quentin's Castle in Llanblethian or the Physic Garden in the Town Centre, plus the many other attractions such as shops, restaurants and pubs, which can be found in this guide. We do hope that you enjoy your visit whether it is for a day or perhaps longer and that you will visit us again in the not too distant future. Councillor Dave Morris - Mayor

H I S T O R Y

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A POTTED HISTORY

Iron Age activity in the Cowbridge area probably centred on the fort known as Caer Dynnaf above the village of Llanblethian. Foundations of a number of Roman structures have been found in Cowbridge, including a bathhouse. It now appears fairly certain that a small Roman fort occupied the site in the 1st century which developed into a township by the 4th century. Cowbridge may be the missing Roman fort of Bovium. Cowbridge was granted its first charter in 1254 by Sir Richard de Clare, Lord of Glamorgan. He had built the township, laying out the burgage plots and leasing them to responsible citizens, or Burgesses, as commercial or residential premises, with

plots taken up both to the east and west of the town. The charter referred to the borough as Longa Villa but in the charter granted in 1340 it had become Cowebrugg, early English for Cowbridge. The centre of the Roman and subsequently the Mediaeval town was further to the west than at present. This was where the Guild Hall was positioned (between the present-day Duke of Wellington and Vale of Glamorgan inns) before it was pulled down in the 19th century. Originally there was a market hall to the rear and a town cross in front of the Guild Hall. A brass cross set in the road at the corner of Church Street marks the

original position of this cross. Cowbridge was the centre of the social life of the county, particularly during the 18th century, and the Great Sessions and Quarter Sessions were held in the town. The last Royal Charter was granted by Queen Victoria in 1866 giving the people of Cowbridge the right to elect their own councillors and mayor. During local government reorganisation in 1974 most old boroughs lost the right to elect a mayor, but Cowbridge was granted permission to retain the office, although it lost its right to grant the Honorary Freedom of Cowbridge, except to officers and men of RAF St Athan.

Local History Room The Cowbridge Local History Room was established in 2008 in the Old Hall in memory of Jeff Alden, a former head of Geography at the Grammar School and later head of the Comprehensive School Sixth Form. It was his finds of Roman pottery that led to the discovery of the foundations of a Roman bathhouse in the town. After his retirement in 1997 he became an authority on local history and amassed a huge archive of records such as wills, burgage rental details, photographs and newspaper articles. The originals of significant documents have been passed into the safe-keeping of the Glamorgan Records Office, but Jeff kept copies and this collection is now preserved by a team led by his widow, Betty Alden, and opened to the public every Wednesday during term time between 10am-12 noon. The project was made possible by a bursary from the Creative Rural Communities scheme and is jointly overseen by the Local History Society and the Cowbridge Records Society. If you have historical records that you think would be of interest to the Local History Room, please contact Betty on 773373.

H I S T O R Y

The Town Hall In 1830 the burgesses of the town bought, through public subscription, the empty prison near the east gate to replace the Guild Hall which they had demolished in order to ease traffic in High Street. The Houses of Parliament had originally granted permission for a house of correction in 1576, but by the late 18th century this was in a sorry state and the prison authority built a new one almost on the same site. This was completed in 1806, but when a new prison was built in Swansea in 1829 the Cowbridge prison closed. To make their town hall, the burgesses enlarged the building placing an impressive frontage onto High Street, surmounted by a clock and cupola, the gift of Bishop Coplestone who lived in nearby Llandough. Most of the old house of correction remains behind, including two blocks of cells now housing the museum. This historic building still retains many interesting features. The Mayor's Parlour contains the well which was used to supply male prisoners with water. The Council Chamber has a facsimile of the 1421 Charter, an oil painting of the Cowbridge Seal used from 1762 to 1887, a copy of the Grant of Arms of 1888 and boards listing past Mayors, Town Clerks and Honorary Freemen. The council chamber (pictured right) is used for the monthly meetings of the Council and its committees. In 2005 the Cowbridge Charter Trust Time Capsule was laid to rest for 249 years under the flagstones of prison cell number one. The contents include souvenirs of a visit by Prince Charles on St David's Day 2004 on the town's charter anniversary, coins and stamps, medals, artefacts from local churches and organisations, photographs and written thoughts and observations of school pupils.

Cowbridge and District Museum is based in some of the former cells of Cowbridge's 'House of Correction'. Here you can experience the atmosphere of the 1820s prison cells. There is always something new to see in this small but unique museum. Opening times are 11am4pm on the first Saturday of each month. Entry is FREE. There is disabled access. Attractions include quizzes for children.

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Cowbridge and District Museum

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Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Morgannwg Welsh medium school for the Vale of Glamorgan, ages 3-19 Ysgol cyfrwng Cymraeg i Fro Morgannwg, oedrannau 3-19

“Outstanding teaching, exceptional pupil behaviour and dynamic leadership combined with excellent exam results” - ESTYN

“Addysgu rhagorol, ymddygiad gwych y disgyblion, arweinyddiaeth fyrlymus ynghˆyd â chanlyniadau ardderchog” - ESTYN Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Morgannwg, Heol Colcot/Colcot Rd, Y Barri/Barry CF62 8YU

01446 450280

post@bromorgannwg.org.uk

www.ygbm.cymru

L O C A L

O R G A N I S A T I O N S

COWBRIDGE CHARTER TRUST

of Cowbridge Town Wall (pictured). The latter project began with clearing of the vegetation by volunteers and grants from the Vale of Glamorgan Council meant that the restoration could be completed by 2011 to the satisfaction of CADW and the Council Conservation Planning Officer. The Trust currently maintains the wall under licence. The Cowbridge Charter Trust is also proud to have won numerous awards for its community projects in Old Hall Gardens.

CADS There can be few towns of the size of Cowbridge with their own dedicated theatre and associated active theatre company. Cowbridge Amateur Dramatic Society (CADS) was formed in 1947 in the days before everyone had their own TV, but has managed to continue and indeed thrive ever since. The company initially rehearsed and performed in local houses, but then members of the group built the Market

Theatre some 40 years ago on a piece of land owned by the District Council at the edge of the cattle market. Although small with a capacity of 65, it has the facilities of a much larger venue including full-size stage with professional lighting, dressing rooms, and sound system. CADS aims to stage three main productions there a year and the theatre is also available for hire by visiting groups.

With support from nearly 200 members the Trust is continuing its work for the benefit of the local community. Look in on www.cctrust.co.uk and if you like what you see why not join us? Contact the Trust on cctrust@hotmail. co.uk or call the secretary on 01446 772704.

Cowbridge town walls are unique in the whole of the old county of Glamorgan. Town walls Built in the mid or late 1200s, possibly partly over the Roman fortifications, and unique in the whole of the old county of Glamorgan. The best preserved parts are around Old Hall Gardens. The walls had four gates, of which only the south remains. The others collapsed or were dismantled in the 17th and 18th centuries. It appears the north gate was used mainly for cattle. Cowbridge is a member of the Walled Town Friendship Circle, a network of heritage towns throughout Europe. 9

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he Cowbridge Charter Trust is a relative newcomer but has proved to be a valuable and vital addition to the Cowbridge civic scene. The Trust was formed in 2004 with the object of organising, along with marching bands and parades, a celebration of 750 years since the granting of the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first Borough Charter on the 13th March 1254. Anxious not to lose the enthusiasm generated by volunteers, the group shortly afterwards registered as a charity and a Community Interest Company. In November 2004 the Trust organised the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first Food & Drink Festival which became so successful that a new voluntary group was formed in 2006 to take over its running. The festival is now one of the most popular food festivals in Wales and was awarded the Best Community Event 2010 by the National Tourism Awards Wales. Other projects carried out by the Charter Trust have included the Cowbridge Jazz Festivals from 2005 to 2008; installation of floodlighting for Holy Cross Church in 2008; and in 2006 commencement of restoration

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A B O U T

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AROUND TOWN Ancient Druid

Old Grammar School

Cowbridge Grammar School was founded as a 'free school' in 1608 by Sir Edward Stradling of St Donats with the aim of educating local boys. It moved to its Church Street location in 1617 and was led in its early days by Sir John Stradling, Sir Edward's nephew. In 1665 the school was bought by Sir Leoline Jenkins, lawyer, diplomat and Secretary of State to Charles II. He was also Principal of Jesus College, Oxford, and in his will he bequeathed the school to the college, which continued to own and administer the school until 1918.

The current buildings in Church Street date from 1847. The school was also using Old Hall on High Street before it closed. When the Grammar School was replaced by Cowbridge Comprehensive in 1973, the building on Church Street stood empty for many years. It was converted into residential accommodation between 2006-8. Old boys of the school include the poet Alun Lewis, actor Sir Anthony Hopkins, journalist Patrick Hannan and Edward Stirling (whose missives earned The Times the nickname of 'The Thunderer').

As with many of the houses on High Street, the faรงade of the curiously named 'Ancient Druid' hides a far older building. In fact this is one of the oldest buildings in town and was reputedly a pilgrims' hospice in the Middle Ages. In the 19th century it was an inn.

Bear Hotel Perhaps Cowbridge's most famous inn, it was the town house for Plas Llanmihangel, later becoming a coaching inn. The 18th century frontage hides a far older structure.

Old families

Cowbridge has always been the place to be seen. Some of the most prestigious families of Glamorgan kept town houses here - the Jenkinses and Thomases of Welsh St Donat's, the Edmondes of Llantrithyd, the Wyndhams of Dunraven, the Thomases of Llanmihangel, the Carnes of Nash.

Aberthin

Aberthin lies within the area administered by Cowbridge Town Council. It is believed there was a monastery here in the 12th13th centuries. The was also a castle and chapel on what is now Hollybush Farm. The area was part of the Manor of Llanquian and when the chapel fell into disuse, an aisle was added to Holy Cross Church in Cowbridge which was consequently known as the Llanquian Aisle.

Jesus College, Oxford, owned and administered the Grammar School until 1918.

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A B O U T

The shopping experience Shopping and Cowbridge are two concepts which have been together since Roman times. The long, bustling High Street has virtually everything under the sun and comprises mostly independent retailers. As an extra dimension to the shopping experience, Cowbridge achieved Fairtrade Town status on St David's Day 2008 thanks to the commitment of the Town Council, churches, business community, Comprehensive School and Gem newspaper's support in highlighting the campaign. The Cowbridge Fairtrade Action Group has encouraged businesses, organisations and townspeople to use fairly traded products. Any product bearing the Fairtrade mark reflects a contract with the producers which guarantees a living wage, decent working conditions, good farming practice and a market for their produce. The whole community benefits from a 'social premium' with investment in social and environmental improvements.

Reindeer Christmas Parade Christmas is always celebrated in a very special way in Cowbridge - the whole town comes together for the Reindeer Christmas Parade, which usually takes place on the last weekend in November. Real reindeer are flown in specially from the Cairngorms in the Highlands of Scotland to pull Santa's sleigh along the High Street and he sets up his grotto to meet the children in the Town Hall. There is a ceremony to switch on the Christmas lights, and local bands entertain the crowds.

To the east of the town north towards Aberthin there is an area of common land known as Stalling Down. Its name in Welsh, Bryn Owain, hints at its significance in folklore. For tradition has it that this is where the forces of Owain Glyndwr, leader of the Welsh rebellion of the early 15th century, enacted a famous victory over those of King Henry IV of England. The main source for the story is Iolo Morganwg in the 18th century, and as a well known forger, he should perhaps be doubted. However, Glyndwr would probably have reached this area during his campaign around the years 1404 or 1405, so there may

Food & Drink Festival be some truth in the story. The A48 road from Cowbridge to Cardiff, like the original Roman road, bisects the common. In this area, possibly near the ring of trees planted by the Traherne family of St Hilary, prisoners from Cowbridge gaol were hanged. A little way from these trees, nearer the main road, is a memorial erected in 1922 to the memory of the officers and men of the Glamorgan Yeomanry. Stalling Down was the location of the Cowbridge Races, one of the most important horse races in Britain during the second half of the 18th century.

As a market town, Cowbridge has always been associated with feeding people. In 2004, the icing was put on the cake when the Cowbridge Food & Drink Festival was started. The festival is a weekend of culinary excellence and all round family entertainment with the opportunity to explore different food cultures and culinary styles. There are marquees displaying the best of local and international produce, cooking demonstrations and entertainment for all the family. The Festival will take place from May 29-30 in 2016. To find out more, visit: www.cowbridgefoodanddrink.org

Shopping and Cowbridge are two concepts which have been together since Roman times.

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Stalling Down

Cowbridge Fire Station

gorSaF dân y bont-Faen

Some of the Firefighters currently working under the Retained Duty System at Cowbridge include Dai Thomas a carpenter, Lianne Carke a student and athlete, Owain Lewis a sales and service manager at a bank in Cowbridge, Paul Hammlett a community psychiatric nurse, Nigel James a material handler for British Airways and Charles Storey a managing director.

Mae rhai o’r Ymladdwyr Tân sy’n gweithio o dan y System Dyletswydd Rhan Amser ar hyn o bryd yn y Bont-faen yn cynnwys Dai Thomas sy’n saer, Lianne Carke sy’n fyfyrwraig ac athletwraig, Amanda Kinman sy’n therapydd harddwch, Owain Lewis sy’n rheolwr gwerthu a gwasanaeth mewn banc yn y Bont-faen, Paul Hammlett sy’n nyrs seiciatrig cymunedol, Nigel James sy’n driniwr deunydd ar gyfer British Airways a Charles Storey sy’n rheolwr gyfarwyddwr.

Cowbridge Station currently has vacancies for retained Firefighters to work on a part time basis. If you think you have what it takes to join our team and protect and serve your local community please call.

Mae gan Orsaf Dân y Bont-faen swyddi gwag ar gyfer Ymladdwyr Tân rhan amser. Os ydych yn credu bod gennych yr hyn sydd ei angen ar gyfer ymuno â’n tîm a diogelu a gwasanaethu eich cymuned leol, ffoniwch:

To speak to a recruiter: 01443 232200 • Automated recruitment line: 0800 028 3615 • Visit www.southwales-fire.gov.uk

I siarad â recriwtiwr: 01443 232200 • I gysylltu â’r llinell recriwtio awtomatig: 0800 028 3615 • Neu ewch i’n gwefan www.decymru-tan.gov.uk

Employers - Employing a Retained Firefighter could save you Thousands of Pounds through the skills, training and experiences gained with the Fire Service, Training involves - Fire Warden, Fire Safety, First Aid, Manual Handling, Health and Safety Training. In addition to the training courses individuals tend to become more self-motivated and develop themselves personally, becoming more committed and productive in the workplace. There can also be Positive Advertising when an employer supports the local community by supporting Retained Firefighters

Cyflogwyr - Fe allai cyflogi Ymladdwr Tân Rhan Amser arbed Miloedd o Bunnoedd i chi drwy’r sgiliau, hyfforddiant a phrofiadau y byddant yn eu hennill gyda’r Gwasanaeth Tân. Mae’r hyfforddiant yn cynnwys - Warden tân, Diogelwch Tân, Cymorth Cyntaf, Trafod â Llaw, Iechyd a Diogelwch. Yn ychwanegol i’r cyrsiau hyfforddiant mae unigolion yn dueddol o ddatblygu’r gallu i’w hysgogi eu hunain a datblygu eu hunain yn bersonol, drwy fod â mwy o ymroddiad yn y gweithle a bod yn fwy cynhyrchiol. Gellir hefyd gael Hysbyseb Cadarnhaol pan fydd cyflogwr yn cefnogi’r gymuned leol drwy gefnogi Ymladdwyr Tân Rhan Amser.

Cowbridge Fire Station responds to around 300 calls a year aiming to serve the community of Cowbridge and the surrounding areas with the fire cover and professional standards expected of an emergency service. The Station also strives to carry out its current programme of community fire safety by carrying out free Home Fire Safety Checks in the area.

For further information about one of your employees becoming a Firefighter working under the Retained Duty System please contact Business Engagement Officer, John Hale 01443 232819 07768 035099

Mae Gorsaf Dân y Bont-faen yn ymateb i tua 300 galwad y flwyddyn gyda’r nod o ddarparu cymuned y Bont-faen a’r ardal gyfagos gyda gwasanaeth tân a safonau proffesiynol sy’n ddisgwyliedig o wasanaeth brys. Mae’r Orsaf hefyd yn ymdrechu i gyflawni ei rhaglen diogelwch tân gyfredol drwy gwblhau Archwiliadau Diogelwch Tân yn y Cartref yn yr ardal.

I gael rhagor o wybodaeth am un o’ch cyflogwyr yn dod yn Ymladdwr Tân Rhan Amser cysylltwch â Swyddog Ymgysylltu Busnes, John Hale 01443 232819 07768 035099.

RAISING AWARENESS - REDUCING RISK • CODI YMWYBYDDIAETH - LLEIHAU PERYGL

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I N D E X

O F

S T R E E T S

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S T R E E T

STREET INDEX (map on pages 16-17) Aberthin Lane............................................... 2e Aberthin Road..........................................3d/1e Aubrey Terrace................................................2c Bear Lane.......................................................2c Bessant Close.................................................3c Birds Lane......................................................2c Borough Close................................................3c Bowmans Way.............................................. 2a Bowmans Well.............................................. 2a Bridge Road.................................................. 4a Broad Shoard, The....................................1b/2b Broadway.......................................................3c Brookfield Park Road......................................3c Butts, The......................................................2b Cae Rex.........................................................3b Cae Stumpie...................................................3c Cardiff Road..................................................3d Castle Hill......................................................3b Castle Mews..................................................4b Causeway, The............................................... 4a Causeway Hill................................................ 4a Celtic Court....................................................2d Chapel Close...................................................1f Church Hill Close........................................... 4a Church Road...................................................2c Church Rd (Llanblethian).............................. 4a Church View............................................. off 3a Clare Drive.....................................................3d Constitution Hill............................................3b Coopers Lane.................................................2b Court Close.....................................................1f Crescent Close...............................................3d Croft Street.....................................................3c Croft Terrace..................................................3d

Cwrt Llanfleiddan..........................................4b Darren Close.................................................. 2a Darren Hill..................................................... 1a Downs View...................................................1f Downs View Close..........................................1f Druids Green.................................................2d Eagle Lane.....................................................2b Eastgate.........................................................2c Factory Road................................................. 4a Geoffrey Ashe Court......................................3d Geraints Close............................................... 2a Geraints Way................................................. 2a Gibbets Hill................................................... 1a Grays Walk....................................................2d Greenfield Way..............................................3b Greenside......................................................3d High Street.....................................................2c Hillside Drive.................................................3d Hopyard Mews.............................................. 2a Lake Hill Drive................................................3c Leoline Close................................................. 2a Limes, The......................................................2c Llanquian Close..............................................3c Llanquian Road..............................................1f Llanmihangel Rise........................................ 4a Llanmihangel Road....................................... 4a Llantwit Major Road..................................... 2a Longmeadow Court.......................................2c Love Lane......................................................3b Maes Lloi........................................................1f Maendy Road.................................................1f Melbourne Close............................................2c Middlegate Court...........................................2c Middlegate Walk............................................2c Mill Park........................................................3b Millfield Drive...............................................2d

M A P

New Forest View............................................2d North Road.....................................................2c Old Masons Yard.............................................2c Orchard, The...................................................1f Paddock, The.................................................2d Penny Lane....................................................2c Pen-y-lan Road..............................................1f Piccadilly....................................................... 4a Porth-y-green Close......................................3b Primrose Close..............................................3d Primrose Hill..................................................3f River Walk.....................................................3b Seys Close..................................................... 2a Slade Close....................................................2d Southway......................................................2b St Athan Road...............................................3d St Bleddians Close......................................... 2a St Johns Close................................................3c St Quentins Hill............................................. 3a St Quentins Close...........................................3c Stallcourt Close............................................. 3a Stradling Close.............................................. 2a Talyfan Close.................................................3d Tyla Rhosyr.................................................... 2a Town Hall Square...........................................2c Town Mill Road.............................................2b Vale Court.....................................................3d Veritys Court..................................................2c Verlands, The.................................................2b Westgate.......................................................2b Willow Walk...................................................2c Windmill Lane................................................3c Wolffe Close.................................................. 2a Woodlands Close...........................................2b

Neil Smith and Company (Cardiff) Limited, Thistlefield, Primrose Hill, Cowbridge CF71 7DU Mobiles: 07850312984 (Graham Watts MD) / 07719914663 Tel: 01446 773631 E-Mail: info@nscconstruction.co.uk

www.nscconstruction.co.uk

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We are a construction company specialising in the sympathetic alteration and restoration of period and listed buildings, as well as undertaking new builds, extensions and garden rooms using traditional and contemporary techniques. Skilled craftsmanship is at the heart of the company. We take huge pride in our work and endeavour to finish every job to a consistently high specification.

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M A P

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COWBRIDGE

(Y BONT-FAEN) 1

GIBB ET

LL S HI

PHYSIC GARDEN

TOWN WALLS

SOUTH GATE

D ROA MI L L

TWT PARK

TE R

CA I LL

ST Q U

EWAY HILL C AUS

G E L RI

/ A FO N

DDA W A N

BESS ANT

BR OA D

ADI L

CHUR CH

MIHA N

HA W

ROA D LA

LL A N

ER T

TINS

PA R K

DAN

(LLANFLEIDDAN)

WS ME

LLANBLETHIAN

ID FLE AN

ROAD FACTORY

RIV

EL R D HANG NMI L LA

FORD

TLE

AY EW CAUS THE

ST JOH N S

CAS

D ROA DGE I R B

LL RT CW

REC

Y WA

WIND MILL LANE

ELD WAY

C PIC

CHURCH RO

BOU RN E

CRO FT ST

BOR

E REX UEN ST Q

GREE NF I

RAC

BROOKFIELD

L HIL

T CLOSE UR CO

H HU RC

IL L C A S T LE H

STA

EAST VILLAGE

L PORTH -Y- G REEN C

LL S HI TIN EN

AF O

CAE STUMP I E CR

LOVE LA NE

ST QUENTIN’S CASTLE

DR U

EAS TGA TE

OUGH

RI V

ION STITUT CON

CEMETERY

E R WALK

MILL PAR

MES U

T HA

LONGMEADOW COURT

LLANQUIAN CL

BIRDS LANE

LI THE

R I V ER

N TOW

WILLOW WALK OLD MASONS YD PENNY LANE

BIR D S L A N E

OLD GRAMMAR SCHOOL

SOUTHWAY

GERAINTS C

TOWN HALL SQUARE

STR E ET

WOLFF E CL

VERITYS COURT

U TTS

REC

E LEGAT

ME L

LANDS VER THE

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Key to map symbols Allotments Ancient monument Bus stop Car park Children’s play area Church/chapel Community centre Doctor’s surgery Fire station Leisure centre Letterbox Library

Livestock market Main retailing areas Police station Post Office Public conveniences Public telephone School Supermarket Theatre Town Hall & Museum Other features

This map is based on original surveys. @ Copyright Heritage Guides 2016. No reproduction of this map is permitted without the prior approval of the publisher. Note that the existence of a route on this map cannot be taken as evidence of a right of way.

| Cowbridge Town Guide

TALYFAN CL

LAR ED R

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| Cowbridge Town Guide

ST QUENTIN'S CASTLE

Chapels

Non-conformist meetings were held locally from 1672. By 1851 there were five chapels in the town with more worshippers than the two Anglican churches. As the chapels closed, the congregations joined together. There is now only one non-conformist congregation in the town, the United Free Church which meets in Ramoth Chapel (above), founded in 1828 and restored by Thomas Morris (Ten-chapel Tom) in 1840.

St Cadoc's

The Roman Catholic church (below) is dedicated to the influential saint of the Dark Ages, Cadoc. The church was completed in 1956 and enlarged in 1992 when a stained glass window by Michael Lassens was fitted. There was no castle in Cowbridge itself, but the nearby St Quentin's Castle (above), also known as Llanblethian Castle, does the job for both settlements. The building was begun in the early 14th century under Gilbert de Clare, Lord of Glamorgan, on the site of an earlier 12th-century castle.

Famous names

Prominent people who were born or have lived in Cowbridge are legion. They include the 18th century antiquary Iolo Morganwg who kept a shop in the town. He devised the rituals of the National Eisteddfod and held the first meeting of the Gorsedd of the Bards just outside Cowbridge. In the 19th century, the Times journalist Edward Stirling lived at Llanblethian - his fiery style is said to have led to the newspaper being given the nickname The Thunderer. Dr Benjamin Heath Malkin was a social reformer who knew William Blake.

It remained unfinished at the time of his death and was set on fire in 1321. It was restored and survived as a home, prison and administrative centre, with records showing use until the 1950s. It is now in the care of Cadw Welsh Historic Monuments and is open free to the public.

In his later years he lived at Old Hall. Sir Leoline Jenkins endowed the Grammar School and initiated the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long association with Jesus College, Oxford. In more recent times, there is the late journalist Patrick Hannan who was schooled in the town at the same time as the actor Anthony Hopkins. Hugh Morris (pictured), chief executive and former team member of Glamorgan County Cricket Club, played cricket in three Tests for England in 1991. He spent his childhood in Cowbridge, making his debut with Glamorgan at the age of 17. He spent 16 years at Glamorgan and captained

the team that won the Sunday League in 1993. In 1997, his last year with the team, Glamorgan won the County Championship for the first time since 1969. ÂŠ Huw Evans Picture Agency

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C H U R C H E S

Holy Cross Church The nave of Holy Cross Church dates from the late 13th century. The Llanquian Aisle was added in 1473, the gift of Lady Anne Neville, wife of Richard, Duke of Gloucester, and so called, it appears, because an assumed chapel at Llanquian on Stalling Down had fallen into disuse and worshippers now came to Cowbridge. In 1484 when her husband became King Richard III, he granted a chaplaincy to Holy Cross. The top of the tower is designed 'broach' fashion whereby the corner roofing eases the transition from the square base to the octagonal fortifications. There may originally have been a spire. The tower holds a peal of eight bells. The church and grammar school alongside it were closely related and many headmasters were also rectors of Cowbridge and Llanblethian. Famous names associated with the church are Lewis Morgan, the 16th century Welsh poet; Judge David Jenkins of Hensol, who was imprisoned in the tower of London during the Civil War; Sir John Stradling of St Donat's, founder of the grammar school; Sir Leoline Jenkins, who endowed the school; and Dr Benjamin Heath Malkin.

Many headmasters of the Grammar School were also rectors of Cowbridge and Llanblethian.

The church, which dates from Norman times, was first dedicated to St Bleddian (the derivation of the village's name) and is now dedicated to St John the Baptist. The font is believed to be Norman and the oak door to the former rood loft is 15th century. Anne Neville wife of Richard III, King of England, built the tower in 1473. It houses a ring of six bells, the oldest of which is the tenor bell dated 1685, the gift of Sir Leoline Jenkins, a judge in the Court of the Admiralty and principal secretary to Charles II. The bells were restored and rehung in 1994. The church was restored in 1896 when a new chancel arch and pulpit were constructed. The south chapel now contains, in what was probably its original position, a stone effigy which had been used as a foundation for a tower buttress. A crypt was located under the chapel containing the remains of some 250 people, together with a number of stone coffin lids. These lids, including one inscribed in Norman French, have now been placed on the inside walls at the base of the tower. A priest's grave was also found under the chapel, and buried in a niche near the skeleton was a 14th century pewter chalice.

During restoration of the church in 1896, a sealed crypt was discovered with the remains of 250 people.

| Cowbridge Town Guide

Llanblethian Church

N A T U R A L

E N V I R O N M E N T

| Cowbridge Town Guide

PARKS & GARDENS Old Hall and garden

The Old Hall was the home of the Edmondes family for generations. The building visible from High Street was remodelled in the 19th century. Looking onto the gardens at the rear are the remaining ground-floor walls of a classical block added in the 18th century which later became unstable and had to be pulled down. In the early 1930s the Old Hall became part of the Grammar School but it was vacated when the building became dangerous. For some years after this the Old Hall was derelict until the 1970s when it was converted into an adult education

centre and the interior was completely rebuilt reuducing the size of the house. The grounds, with their original pond, are bordered on two sides by the mediaeval town walls and are now a pleasant place to stroll, rest or visit the modern purpose-built library. The Cowbridge Charter Trust has worked with the Vale of Glamorgan Council to improve the garden by renovating the Georgian façade, creating a terrace in front of it and improving the pond and surrounding natural environment.

Twt Park

Physic Garden At the core of Cowbridge is a sanctuary of tranquillity - the physic garden, a place where plants with medicinal properties are grown. Such gardens are traditionally associated with monasteries and great houses - few towns can boast such a public facility. The garden was created in the former walled garden of Old Hall by the Cowbridge Physic Garden Trust and officially opened in 2008 by HRH the Duchess of Cornwall. The area had been formerly used as a

kitchen garden by the Grammar School and a tree nursery by successive local councils. The garden is designed in the 18th century fashion and therefore includes only plants found in Britain before 1800. There are twelve central beds containing plants with healing properties for specific illnesses or parts of the body. Maintenance and development of the garden is carried out by volunteers. If you would like to help, visit: cowbridgephysicgarden.org.uk

There is much pretty scenery around the river Thaw as it flows through Cowbridge, particularly at Twt Park, an area of land behind the church and the Old Grammar School which has been in public ownership for centuries. The origin of the name is obscure, although it may well be the Welsh word ‘twt’ meaning ‘compact’. In 2014, the Town Council consulted on the renewal of the children’s play area and secured funding of £20,000 from the Vale of Glamorgan Council with further funding through a Section 106 planning agreement to install new facilities which include cradle seat swings, a timber and rope adventure playframe, two timber climbing towers and four new benches.

V I L L A G E S

Llantrithyd

The village of Llanblethian lies to the south of Cowbridge and is now connected seamlessly with the town. With St Quentin's Castle standing on Castle Hill above the village, it is situated in a hollow with the river Thaw running through the village from north to south and a stream running into the Thaw from the west. This runs past the old woollen factory and alongside Bridge Road until it joins the Thaw at the bridge. On the hill behind the church are the remains of an Iron Age fort, Caer Dynnaf. Although the site has never been subjected to a major archeological excavation, evidence has been found of occupation during the Roman period. On the perimeter of the fort the remains of a house that existed in the Dark Ages have been identified by the Royal Commission on the Ancient Monuments of Wales. As there is no common, the Cowbridge side of Llanblethian Hill, which is known locally as Mount Ida, served this purpose and several cottages used to have grazing rites on the hillside.

There is currently no shop or pub in Llanblethian. The General Picton and the King's Head are now private homes and a 19th century will shows an inventory of a shop that was surprising in its diversity. There are a number of large houses on Church Hill including the former dower house of Dunraven Castle and a house owned at one time by the Gonzalez Byass family of sherry fame. The remains of a cross stand near the church. Great House, built for Thomas Wilkins in the early 1700s, dominates the southern part of the village. Behind it lies a modern children's play area and football pitch provided by the council. The former wool factory, near the ford, was famous for its flannel, especially a black flannel with narrow scarlet stripes that was woven for the cockle women of Swansea. Some of the weavers worked in their own cottages in the village. The stream was an essential tool in the processing of the wool. There is a local vineyard which produces wine under the Glyndwr label.

St Hilary

Llanmihangel

Two miles east of Cowbridge, St Hilary is best known for its Norman church dedicated to St Hilary of Poitiers, and its pub, the Bush Inn.

A hamlet near Sigingston, it has a small 13th century church, overlooked by a fairytale 16th century manor house, Llanmihangel Place.

Three miles east of Cowbridge. Llantrithyd Place, a large 16th century ruined manor house, dominates the centre of the village. The small 13th-century church of St Illtyd has an outstanding floor-to-ceiling tombchest of the Basset family.

Merthyr Mawr The Romantic ruin of Ogmore Castle sits on the banks of the river Ewenny. Nearby are stepping stones across the river and a path leading to Merthyr Mawr, a charming village of thatched cottages. The sand dunes here run for a mile to the coast and are a walker‚Äôs paradise with a great variety of flora and fauna. South of Merthyr Mawr is Candleston Castle, a fortified 15th-century manor house.

Llancarfan This conservation village, eight miles from Cowbridge is set in a wooded valley formed by the Nant Carfan stream. The medieval grade I listed St Cadoc‚Äôs Church lies at the heart of the village. It has recently been restored and the bells rehung. In the sixth century Cadoc founded a monastery at a site south of the present church with a college for monks and scholars, the first of its kind in the country.

| Cowbridge Town Guide

Llanblethian

22 | Cowbridge Town Guide

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| Cowbridge Town Guide

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24 | Cowbridge Town Guide

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I N F O R M A T I O N

LOCAL INFORMATION EMERGENCY NUMBERS Fire, police & ambulance 999. Childline 0800 1111. NSPCC Child Protection Helpline 0808 800 5000. Samaritans (24 hours) 116 123.

Town Councillors Cowbridge Ward - Cllr Mrs S J Vaughan 775452; Cllr Mrs M Arnold 773441; Cllr Mrs A Burges 774491; Cllr Mrs NC Thomas 772630; Cllr DG Morgan 774462. Llanblethian East Ward - Cllr JR Harris 773798; Cllr Mrs SM Cox 773637; Cllr Ms F Blomeley 771544; Cllr T L Williams 773530. Llanblethian West Ward - Cllr Mrs G Baty 773219; Cllr GA Cox 773637; Cllr A T Trousdell 771323; Cllr P J Knapp 679732. Aberthin Ward - Cllr DW Morris 774520; Cllr Mrs E George 774880.

Utilities Electricity (Western Power Distribution) 0800 052 0400. Gas 0808 111 999. Welsh Water 0800 052 0130 (emergencies). Floodline 0845 988 1188.

Vale of Glamorgan County Borough Council Civic Offices, Holton Rd, Barry, CF62 4RU. Open Mon-Thu 8.30am-5pm, Fri 8.30am4.30pm. Contact 700111. www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk County Councillors Cowbridge Ward - Cllr G A Cox (Con) 773637; Cllr A Parker (Con) 781010 / 781185; Cllr H Jarvie (Con) 773841. Member of Parliament Vale of Glamorgan - Alun Cairns (Con) 403814. National Assembly Member Vale of Glamorgan - Jane Hutt (Lab) 740981 / 0300 200 7110. South Wales Central David Melding (Con) 744126 / 0300 200 7220; Leanne Wood (PC) 01443 681420 / 0300 200 7200; Andrew R T Davies (Con) 0300 200 7227; Eluned Parrott (Lib Dem) 02920 462326 / 0300 200 7263. European Parliament Members Wales - Dr Kay Swinburne (Con) 02920 540895; Derek Vaughan (Lab) 02920 227660; Jill Evans (PC); 01443 441395; Nathan Gill (UKIP) 00 322 284 5341.

GENERAL SERVICES Courts The Law Courts, Sunnyside, Bridgend. Enquiries 10am-5pm Mon-Fri. Contact 01656 673833. Police Station Bridgend Police Station, Brackla St, Bridgend CF31 1BZ. Open daily 8am-8pm. Local Neighbourhood Officers are PC Stuart Elson & PCSO Hilary O’Callaghan 07805 301416 (for local neighbourhood matters, not reporting incidents). Contact (non-emergency) 101. Emergency 999. For information about Neighbourhood Volunteer Team or PACT see website: www.south-wales.police.uk Crimestoppers Report crimes anonymously on 0800 555111. www.crimestoppers-uk.org Registrars Office Civic Offices, Holton Rd, Barry. Births, deaths, marriages, civil partnerships. Open (appt only) Mon-Fri 8.30am-1pm & 2-4.30pm (Fri 4pm). Contact 700111. Emergency out of hours service 747874. Cemetery The Limes. For information on the cemetery and to request searches of the register, contact the Town Clerk, Cowbridge Town Council 773385. Dog Warden Contact Civic Offices 700111 (Mon-Thu 8.30am-5pm, Fri 8.30am-4.30pm).

HEALTH NHS Choices. Medical advice over the phone (non-emergency): 111 GPs • Cowbridge & Vale Medical Practice, The Health Centre, The Broad Shoard. Contact 772237. www. cowbridgeandvalemedicalpractice.co.uk • Cowbridge & Western Vale Group Practice, The Health Centre, The Broad Shoard. Contact 772383. www.cowbridgedoctors.com Hospitals • University Hospital of Wales, Heath Park, Cardiff: 24 hr A&E. Contact 02920 747747. • Princess of Wales Hospital, Coity Rd, Bridgend: 24 hr A&E. Contact 01656 752752. • Royal Glamorgan Hospital, Ynysmaerdy, Llantrisant: 24 hr A&E. Contact 01443 443443. www.wales.nhs.uk Opticians • Robert E Lloyd, 49 High St. Contact 773191. www.robert-lloyd.co.uk • O’Sullivan Opticians Ltd. London House, 89 Eastgate. Contact 772719. www.osullivanopticians.co.uk • Norma Davies Opticians, 2 Penny Lane. Contact 771857. www.normadaviesopticians.co.uk Dentists • Cowbridge Dental Centre, 30 High St. Contact 773284. www.cowbridgedental.com • Saleem Ikram & LG Holeyman. 57 High St. Contact 772604. • VIP Dental Care, 64c Eastgate. Contact 771163. Vets • West Farm Veterinary Clinic, North Rd. Contact 774016. www.westfarmvets.co.uk CIVIC BODIES Twinning Association Cowbridge is twinned with Clisson in the Department of the Loire Atlantique near Nantes, France. Contact via website: www.cowbridge-twinning.co.uk

| Cowbridge Town Guide

LOCAL & NATIONAL GOVERNMENT Cowbridge with Llanblethian Town Council Town Hall, Cowbridge, CF71 7AD. Contact Town Clerk David B Morris 773385. Open 9am-1pm Mon-Fri. www.cowbridge-tc.gov.uk

I N F O R M A T I O N

26 Chamber of Trade | Cowbridge Town Guide

Meets 1st Tue, 9am in the Bear Hotel or. Contact Alun John 772229. Cowbridge Charter Trust Local charity engaged in restoration & maintenance projects in the town. www.cctrust.co.uk Allotments Aberthin Rd. Contact Vale of Glamorgan Council. Contact 700111. www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk Cowbridge Community Allotments Allotment & community garden association. Contact via website: www.cowbridgeca.btck.co.uk Cae Rex Allotment Association Rents 10 plots from the Town Council off Cae Rex. Contact Mrs Pat Thomas (Sec) 774910. Transition Cowbridge Part of the Transition Network, planning for towns in a post climate change low carbon world. Meets 2nd Tue 7.30pm at the Cross Inn or Bear Hotel. Please check venue in advance. Contact via website. www.transitioncowbridge.org

Cowbridge Youth Centre The Old Hall, High St. Activities for 11-25 year olds. Open Wed & Fri 6.15- 8.45pm. Contact 709386. Coed Hills Rural Artspace Coed Hills, Llantrithyd Rd. A centre for sustainable living and the creative arts. Provides a support network for young people. Open daily all year from 10am. Contact 774084. Community Halls • Cowbridge Town Hall, High St. Contact Cowbridge Town Council 773385. • Aberthin Village Hall, Aberthin Lane. Contact 772788 or via website. www. aberthin.btck.co.uk • Cowbridge Community College, Old Hall, High St. Contact Sally Perini 773831. • Noah’s Place, Cowbridge United Free Church Community Centre & Cafe. 21 Westgate. Contact (Sec) 772129 / (Minister) 07835 447289. www. cowbridgeunitedfreechurch.org.uk • Llanblethian Church Hall. Contact Barbara Easterbrook 773960. Cowbridge Leisure Centre The Bear Field. Open Mon-Fri 7am-10pm, Sat & Sun 9am-5pm. Contact 403000. www.leisurecentre.com/cowbridge-leisurecentre

COMMUNITY AMENITIES Cowbridge & District Museum Town Hall. Admission free. Open 1st Sat 11am-4pm. Contact Steve Harkett 07833 431730 email boyobach@live.com.

Physic Garden Open daily 10am-4pm (winter); 10am-6pm (summer). Entry free. Volunteers needed. Contact via website. www.cowbridgephysicgarden.org.uk

Local History Room At Old Hall, High St. Open Wed (term time) 10am-12 noon. Contact Betty Alden 773373.

Old Hall Gardens Run by Cowbridge Charter Trust. See website for more information about activities. www.oldhallgardens.org

Old Hall Garden Run by Cowbridge Charter Trust. See website for information about activities. www.oldhallgardens.org

St Quentin’s Castle Llanblethian. Mainly early 14th century remains of a large courtyard castle. In the care of Cadw and open to the public between 10am-4pm. Unstaffed, no admission charge. Contact via website. www.cadw.gov.wales

The Market Theatre The Butts. Home of the Cowbridge Amateur Dramatic Society. Seats 65, full size stage, bar and kitchen facilities. Stage and auditorium for hire. Contact Camilla Hopkin 07734 543928. www.market-theatre.com

Fishing Public fishing is available at Seven Oaks Fishing Lakes & Koi Farm north of Cowbridge. Contact 622236. www.sevenoaksfishfarm.co.uk

INFORMATION SERVICES Cowbridge Library Old Hall, High St. Open Mon, Tue, Thu & Fri 10am-5pm, Wed 10am-7pm & Sat 10am4pm. Contact 773941. Citizens’ Advice Bureau Llantwit Major Children’s Centre, Station Road, Llantwit Major & Barry Enterprise Centre, Skomer Rd, Barry. Drop in (both venues): Mon am. Advice line: Mon-Fri 9am5pm. Contact 03444 772020. www.citizensadvice.org.uk PUBLIC TRANSPORT For information on local & national bus & rail services contact Traveline Cymru 0871 200 2233. www.traveline-cymru.info Trains The nearest train stations are at Bridgend, Llantwit Major, Pontyclun, Rhoose & Cardiff. Rail enquiry service: 0345 748 4950. www.nationalrail.co.uk Cardiff International Airport Situated 10 miles from Cowbridge at Rhoose. Scheduled air services to Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester, Belfast, Dublin, Isle of Man, Channel Islands & many European destinations. General flight enquiries 711111. www.cardiff-airport.com RECYCLING & WASTE The Vale of Glamorgan Council operates a weekly kerbside collection service of co-mingled dry recycling & kitchen waste. Plastic recycling boxes are available from the Civic Offices, Holton Rd, Barry. Black bag waste is collected fortnightly. Garden waste is collected fortnightly Apr-Oct with a ring and request service Nov-Mar. For collection timetable or further information contact 700111 or via website: www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk/recycle Civic amenity site: Llandow Trading Estate, Llandow. Open 10am-5pm Mon-Fri in summer & 10am-4pm in winter. Please note, you will need a permit if you want to take waste to the sites in a trailer or van. Contact 700111. www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk

I N F O R M A T I O N

EDUCATION Vale of Glamorgan Family Information Service Provides free advice and information about childcare and other services for families in the Vale. Contact 704704, Mon-Thu 8.30am5pm, Fri 8.30am-4.30pm. www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk Primary • Y Bont Faen School, Borough Close. Contact 772374. www.ybontfaen.com Primary - Welsh medium • Ysgol Iolo Morgannwg, Broadway. Contact 772358. www.ysgoliolomorganwg.co.uk Secondary • Cowbridge Comprehensive School, Aberthin Rd. Contact 772311. www. cowbridgecomprehensiveschool.co.uk Secondary - Welsh medium • Ysgol Bro Morgannwg, Colcot Rd, Barry. Contact 450280. www.bromorgannwg.org.uk Secondary - Catholic • St Richard Gwyn Catholic High School, Argae Lane, Barry. Contact 729250. www. strichardgwyn.co.uk Continuing Education • Cowbridge Community College, Old Hall, 64 High St. Provides a range of daytime & evening courses for adults. Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. Contact 773831. MEDIA Print • Cowbridge Gem. Contact 774484. www.cowbridge-today.co.uk • Western Mail & South Wales Echo. Contact 02920 243602. www.walesonline.co.uk • Vale Life. Contact 0845 130 6452. www.valelife.co.uk

Broadcast • Bro Radio (98.1FM). Contact 420593. www.broradio.fm • Capital Radio (103.2 / 97.4FM). Contact 02920 949494. www.capitalfm.com • Radio Wales (93-96 & 104 FM. Contact 03700 100110. www.bbc.co.uk/radiowales • Radio Cymru (92-105FM). Contact 03700 500500. www.bbc.co.uk/radiocymru PLACES OF WORSHIP Interdenominational Cowbridge United Free Church Ramoth Chapel, 21 Westgate. Contact Revd Heather Weddell 7721291 / 07835 447289. Services 10.30 am & 6pm. www.cowbridgeunitedfreechurch.org.uk Roman Catholic St Cadoc’s RC Church Townmill Rd. Contact Fr Mark Rowles, 792381. Sacrament of Reconciliation Sat 4.15pm; Vigil Mass Sat 5pm; Sunday Mass 9am (at Our Lady & St Illtyd, Llantwit Major); Weekday Mass Tue 7pm & Thu 10am. www.westvalecatholics.co.uk Church in Wales (Anglican) Holy Cross, Church St & St John the Baptist, Llanblethian. Contact Revd David Boult 07767 818257. For service times contact Parish Office 772302 (open Mon, Tue, Thu & Fri, 10.30am-12.30pm) or see website. www.cowbridgeparish.com REGULAR EVENTS Cowbridge Christmas Reindeer Parade Held annually at end of Nov. Father Christmas and his elves travel through the town on a sleigh pulled by real reindeer. Activities include Santa’s grotto, celebrity lights switch on, music, entertainment. Contact Town Council 773385. Cowbridge Book Festival Holds a series of literary events throughout the year. www.cowbridgebookfestival.co.uk Livestock Market Held every Tue 7.30am - 2pm. Prime Lambs, cull and store sheep, store cattle. Contact Rachel Blakemore 776371.

Farmers’ Market Held 1st & 3rd Sat, 9.30am-1pm at Arthur John’s Car Park. Contact Myfanwy Edwards 07813 761474 or Jan Rees 760478. www.valefarmersmarket.co.uk Cowbridge Food & Drink Festival A weekend of culinary excellence and all round family entertainment. Please check website for new dates. Contact Polly 07875 290428 or via website. www.cowbridgefoodanddrink.org Cowbridge May Fair Organised by Llantwit Major and Cowbridge Lions. Next Fair scheduled for 1st May, 2017. www.llantwitmajorandcowbridgelions. org.uk Country Market Held 1st & 3rd Fri (Mar-Dec) 9.30-11.30am in the Lesser Hall, Town Hall; also at the Vale Farmers’ Market in Arthur John’s car park on 1st & 3rd Sat, 9am-12pm. Fruit, veg, plants, flowers, home made produce & crafts, refreshments. Contact Shena Sarjeant 774703. www.cowbridgecountrymarket. blogspot.co.uk ACCOMMODATION Hotels & guest houses • The Bear Hotel, High Street. Contact 774814. • Glyndwr Vineyard, Llanblethian. Contact 774564. www.glyndwrvineyard.co.uk • The Garn, St Hilary. Contact 772445. Self-catering • Llanquian Farm Cottages, Llanquian Road, Aberthin. Contact 772484. www.llanquianfarm-holidays.co.uk • Mimosa Cottage & the Shield Garden Flat, Eastgate. Contact 771539. • The Old Stables, Bryn Hyfryd, Primrose Hill. Contact 774568. • Crossways Manor Apartments, Cowbridge. Contact 773171. • Stables Apartments, St Hilary. Contact 774040. www.stables-apartments.co.uk • Glyndwr Vineyard, Llanblethian. Contact 27 774564. www.glyndwrvineyard.co.uk

| Cowbridge Town Guide

POST OFFICES, BANKS ETC • Post Office, 27 Eastgate. Contact 0345 611 2970. • Barclays, 62 High St. Contact 0845 605 2345. • HSBC, 61 High St. Contact 0845 740 4404. • Lloyds TSB, 33 High St. 0845 300 0000. • Nat West, 4 Westgate. Contact 0845 301 7549. • Principality Building Society, 28 High St. Contact 773954. • Yorkshire Building Society, 75 High St. Contact 474361.

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28 | Cowbridge Town Guide

CLUBS & SOCIETIES ARTS Cowbridge Choral Society Meets Thu 7.30pm at the United Free Church, Westgate. 2 or 3 concerts a year including Christmas concert at Holy Cross Church. Contact via website. www.cowbridgechoralsociety.co.uk Cowbridge Male Voice Choir Meets Wed 7.30-9.30pm in term time at Holy Cross Church. Contact Tom Carnduff 794092 or via website. www.cmvc.org.uk

The Belles of St Mary’s Handbell ringing group. Rehearses Wed 1.30pm (ex half term) at Holy Cross Church, Church St. Contact Bert Thomas 772715. Moya Vahey School of Russian Ballet Meets at Bijou, 48A Eastgate on Sat 8-11am, Tue 3.30-8.30pm, Wed 4-6pm, Thu 2-3.30pm & Fri from 4.30-7.30pm. For ages 3 to adult. Contact Moya Vahey-Beynon 774080. www.moyavaheyrussionballet.co.uk

Belladonna Singing Group Women’s choir. Meets Tue 8.15-9.30pm at the Little Centre of Calm, 1 Westgate. Contact Geoff Howells 773038 / 07949 137112.

Line Dancing Meets Mon 7.30-9pm at Llanblethian Church Hall. Beginners & advanced. Contact Barbara Easterbrook (bookings) 773960 or Alan Carpenter 07973 116354.

Singing Group Meets fortnightly Fri 7-9pm at Llanblethian Church Hall. Contact Barbara Easterbrook 773960.

Vale School of Dance Modern, jazz, ballet, street dance, tap & dancersize for adults & children. Classes held at the United Free Church, Westgate. For details of times contact Nerissa Usherwood 774449. www.valeschoolofdanceandhealth.co.uk

Cowbridge Amateur Dramatic Society (CADS) Based at the Market Theatre, The Butts. Stages 3 main productions a year. Usually rehearses Mon & Wed evenings. Please phone to check times. Contact Caron Reidy (Mem Sec) via website. www.market-theatre.com/cadsaboutus. htm Cowbridge Art Society Meets Thu 7-9pm (term time) at Old Hall Community College. Varied programme of events: talks, workshops, demonstrations. See website for programme of events & contact. www.cowbridgeartsociety.com Art Group Meets Tue 10am-1pm at Llanblethian Church Hall. Contact Brenda Dwek 775735. Cowbridge Amateur Operatic Society (CAOS) Rehearses Wed 7.30pm at St Athan Community Hall with extra rehearsals Thu in Ystradowen Village Hall in the run up to a production. Annual production at end of May and concert in October. Contact Jenny Hill (Sec) 713110. www.cowbridgeaos.org.uk

Ballroom Dancing (Cowbridge Dance) Ballroom dancing classes & private tuition. Sequence class meets at Town Hall on Mon 8.30-10pm. Contact Alan Taylor 01443 238867 / 07890 707759. www.cowbridgedance.com Stagecoach Drama, singing & dance. Meets Sun 9.3012.45 (ages 4-6); 10am-1pm (ages 6-18) at Old Hall Community College, Westgate. Contact Robert or Helene Reynolds 772727. www.stagecoach.co.uk Big Screen A community cinema which shows films monthly, usually on 3rd Thu (ex Jul & Aug) at 7.30pm at the Main Hall, Town Hall. Contact Dick Buswell 771929. CARING/ VOLUNTEERING Glamorgan Voluntary Service Barry Community Enterprise Centre, Skomer Rd, Barry. Umbrella body for voluntary groups in the Vale. Open Mon-Fri 10am4pm. Contact 741706. www.valecvs.org.uk

Vale Volunteer Bureau For those looking for volunteering opportunities in the Vale. 34 Holton Rd, Barry. Open Mon-Fri 10am-4pm. Contact 421782. Valeways Works to facilitate and promote walking in the Vale by improving & maintaining footpaths. Arranges easy & long distance walks. Opportunities for volunteers. For details of walks see website or contact 749000. www.valeways.org.uk Evan Jenkins Charity Provides grants for young people under 25 in Ystradowen & Llanblethian, Aberthin & Trerhyngyll. For application form contact Geoff Cox 773637. geoffrey.cox@dsl.pipex.com Cowbridge Institute Educational Trust / United Charities Provide grants for educational & other purposes for school age children within the old parish of Cowbridge. Also United Charities (includes over 25s). For application form contact Alex Bagnall (Sec) 771354 / cowbridgeict@gmail.com HISTORICAL Cowbridge History Society Meets 1st Fri at 7.30pm (Oct-May) at Lesser Hall, Town Hall. Holds monthly talks & occasional trips to historic sites. New members welcome. Contact Dick Tonkin (Sec) 772704. www.cowbridgehistory society.org Local History Study Room History archive open to the public. Old Hall, High St. Contact Betty Alden 773373. National Trust Cowbridge Association Meets in Cowbridge on 3rd Wed 7.30pm (Sep—Apr/May). Lectures, day trips in summer and residential trip in Apr. Contact Hywel Jenkins (Mem Sec) 01656 655983. CHURCH GROUPS See church websites for detailed information about church groups as these change regularly. Churches Together in Cowbridge Contact Rosemary Samuels (Chair) 772330.

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Women’s Fellowship Meets 1st Thu 7.30-10pm in Llanblethian Church Hall. Contact Barbara Easterbrook 773960. FAMILIES Parent & Toddler Group Meets Tue 9.30-11am (term time) at United Free Church Hall. Contact Andrea Gardiner 776412. Vale & Valleys National Childbirth Trust Supports families with young children and through pregnancy by providing information and organising regular courses and activities. Contact by email: coordinator.valeandvalleys@nct.org.uk www.nct.org.uk Parent & Toddler Group Meets Mon 9.30-11am in Llanblethian Church Hall. Contact Sam Tanguay samanthakmorgan@hotmail.com NCT Baby & Toddler Group Meets Tue 9.30-11am at United Free Church Hall. Contact Lisa Moir 07544 895910. Storytime For the under fives. Meets Wed 2-2.30pm (term time) at the Library, Old Hall, High St. Contact 773941. Simply out of School English medium after school club for children ages 3-14 years. Meets Mon-Fri 3-5.45pm (term time) at Y Bont Faen Primary School, Borough Close. Also runs breakfast and holiday clubs. Contact Joanne Hopkins 07756 836806 or via website. www.simplyoutofschool.co.uk HOBBIES Bridge • Vale of Glamorgan Bridge Club. Meets Mon 7-10pm at Cowbridge Rugby Club. www.bridgewebs.com/vogbc • Llanblethian Bridge Club Meets Tue eve in Llanblethian Church Hall. Contact Barbara Easterbrook 773960. • Friday Bridge Club Meets fortnightly 2 -4.30pm on Fri at Llanblethian Church Hall. No partner needed. Beginners welcome. Contact Barbara Easterbrook 773960.

Cowbridge U3A (University of the 3rd Age) 26 different interests groups. Meets 2nd Wed 2pm at Town Hall. See website for more information and contact. http://u3asites.org.uk/ Bellringing There is bellringing at 3 of the parish churches (Holy Cross, St Hilary & St John, Llanblethian). A parish band moves around the churches for practice nights and for Sunday service ringing. Visitors & new members welcome. Contact Parish Office 772302 or see website for further details. www.cowbridgeparish.com Vale Photographic Club Meets Fri 7.30-9.30pm at Community Hall, Ystradowen (behind White Lion pub). Contact via website. www.vale-photographic-club.co.uk Flower Arrangers Club Meets 1st Wed 7.30pm usually at Cowbridge Town Hall. Visitors & new members welcome. Contact Pauline Collins 01443 524651. Cowbridge in Bloom Contact Don Bell 774813. Gardening Club Meets 7.30pm on last Thu at Lesser Hall, Town Hall. Outings, November dinner, speakers. New members & visitors welcome. Contact via website. www.cowbridgegardeningclub.weebly.com Vale of Glamorgan Ramblers Sunday walks (10-12 miles) throughout the year and Wed (4-5 miles) in summer. Includes social events. Part of the Ramblers’ Association. Contact Mike Holley (Sec) 774867 / 07896 334789 or via website. www.valeofglamorganramblers.co.uk

Pilates/Nordic Walking/Nia Cardio The Barefoot Studio, 61-63 Eastgate. Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 10am-5pm. Contact 775772. www.barefootstudio.co.uk Reiki A Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. Meets at the Little Centre of Calm, 1 Westgate. Contact Ruth Handley 07748 446060 or via website for details of courses. www.freedomtobe.co SOCIAL GROUPS Cowbridge Rotary Club Meets Mon 7.15pm (ex bank hols) at the Bear Hotel. Contact Chris Crossley (Sec) 02920 613331. Cowbridge & Pontfaen Probus Club Meets 1st Wed 10.30 at The Bear Hotel. Contact Chris Pinchbeck 773527. Vale Probus Club Meets last Tue 10.15 for 10.30am at the Duke of Wellington. Contact Graham Duffield (Chair) 772752. Llantwit Major & Cowbridge Lions Meet 1st & 3rd Thu at various venues in Llantwit Major. Contact 0845 833 6763 or via website. www.llantwitmajorandcowbridgelions. org.uk Cowbridge Gateway Monday Club For those aged 16+ with learning difficulties. Indoor games, crafts, speakers, dancing, social & educational visits, annual mystery trip and dinner. Meets 2nd Mon in the United Free Church, The Broad Shoard. Contact Ann Roach (Sec) 781309. Royal British Legion Contact Hunter Jarvie (Pres) 773841.

Glamorgan Hunt Contact Clare Roberts (Sec) 760957. www.glamorganhunt.com

Cowbridge Friendship Club Meets last Thu 2-4pm at Llanblethian Church Hall. Contact Barbara Easterbrook 773960 or Pat Smith 01656 668446.

KEEP FIT/WELLBEING Weightwatchers Meet Tue 10-11.15am & 7-8.30pm at Leisure Centre, The Broadshoard. Contact 403000.

SPORT Cowbridge & District Athletic Club Athletic Ground, The Broad Shoard. Contact 772595.

Pilates Meets Mon 5-6pm & Wed 6-7pm at Llanblethian Church Hall. Contact Barbara Easterbrook 773960.

The Vale Badminton Club Meets Leisure Centre, The Broad Shoard. Club nights Tue 8-10pm & Sun 6-8pm. Contact centre 403000 or 07523 083686.

| Cowbridge Town Guide

Llanblethian Church Guild Meets 2.30pm on occasional Mondays in Llanblethian Church Hall. Contact Barbara Easterbrook 773960.

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30 Chris Rees School of Badminton | Cowbridge Town Guide

Meets Sun 10 -12noon at Leisure Centre, The Broad Shoard. Contact Chris Rees 07882 307028. Cowbridge Bowling Club Plays Apr- Sep on green behind the Leisure Centre, The Broad Shoard. Mens, ladies, junior & mixed teams. New members welcome. Contact Michael Bradley 773289. www.cowbridgebowlingclub.co.uk Indoor Bowling Club Meets at the Leisure Centre, The Broad Shoard. Club night: Thu 7.30–9.30pm. Competitions & social events. Contact Anne Jarvis (Sec) 773013. Cowbridge Cricket Club Contact J Gilbert (Hon Sec) 771664 / 07592 998259. www.cowbridgecricket.co.uk Cowbridge Town FC Home pitch is the Bear Field. Minis & juniors play Sat am at St Brides & Corntown, seniors play Sat & youth Sun pm at The Bear Field. Contact Bob Murphy 760049 / 07730 923167. Netball Courses are held at Cowbridge Leisure Centre. Contact 403000. Cowbridge RFC Senior, Youth & Junior teams. Contact Alun Griffiths 793552 or clubhouse 772595. www.cowbridgerfc.co.uk Cowbridge Squash Club The Broad Shoard. Junior training Sat am. Contact David Garnham (Mem Sec) 07721 533443 or email david@healthinsurewales.co.uk Cowbridge Lawn Tennis Club The Broad Shoard. Junior & adult coaching sessions available. Contact Mem Sec 07523 956034 or via website. www.cltc.webs.com Diamond Tennis Academy Meets Wed eve at Cowbridge Leisure Centre, The Broad Shoard. Contact 02920 689382 or via website. www.diamondtennisacademy.co.uk Cowbridge Tae Kwondo Ages 5+. Meets Wed 6.30-8pm (and Sat 4-6pm when there is demand) at The Leisure Centre, The Broad Shoard. Contact Simon Griffiths 07791 232673. www.taekwondocymru.co.uk

Inner Spirit Tae Kwondo School Meets 4-6.30pm Mon & Thu eve at The Leisure Centre, The Broad Shoard - Little Tigers (ages 4-6) for first half hour then Juniors for 2 hours. Contact Neil Gimbel 07855 487404. www.neilgimbeltkd.com Cowbridge Judo Club Classes held Tue 6.30–8.30pm 9pm at The Village Hall, Ystradowen. Contact Stephen Cooper 752320. www.cowbridge-judo.co.uk Yoga Several classes are held at The Little Centre of Calm, 1 Westgate. Contact 07483 242362 or see details on website. www.the little shopofcalm.com Hot Yoga Meets Sun 5.30-7.30pm at Llanblethian Church Hall. Contact Barbara Easterbrook 773960. Cowbridge Karate Juniors meet Mon 6-7pm, Seniors Mon 7-8.30pm & Mixed Fri 7-8pm, Kata Tue 7-8pm at the Leisure Centre, The Broad Shoard. Contact via website. www.cowbridgekarate.com WELSH LANGUAGE Menter Bro Morgannwg Yn hybu defnydd o’r iaith gymraeg ym Mro Morgannwg. / Promotes the Welsh language in the Vale of Glamorgan. Contact via website. www.menterbromorgannwg.org Merched y Wawr Sefydliad i ferched/women’s organisation. Learners welcome. Yn cwrdd/Meets ail ddydd Llun/2nd Mon 7.30pm yn/at Lesser Hall / Neuadd Lai, Town Hall, The Broad Shoard. Cysyllter â/Contact Glenys Bellin 01656 649085. WOMEN’S GROUPS Women’s Institute Meets 2nd Thu at 7.30-10pm at Llanblethian Village Hall. Contact Margaret Price 773000. www.glamorganfwi.org.uk RVS Monday Luncheon Club Meets Mon 12-1.30pm (ex Aug & Bank hols) in Lesser Hall, Town Hall. Contact Renee Crossman 774089. www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk

YOUTH GROUPS Cowbridge Youth Centre The Old Hall, High St. Activities for 11-25 year olds. Open Wed & Fri 6.15- 8.45pm. Contact 709386. Rainbows, Brownies & Guides Contact Wendy Hinton, County Commissioner on 01656 648783. www.ggcg.org.uk Vale Division Rangers Adventure youth activities for older girls aged 14-26 years. Contact Jen Denham 01656 890235. www.catvog.org Beavers, Cubs, Scouts & Explorers Contact Area Office 0845 0948987 / 02920 210119 or contact Area Commissioner via website. www.catvog.org 293 Squadron Air Training Corps HQ off Aberthin Rd. For young people ages 13+. Meets Mon & Thu 7-9pm. Contact Wing HQ 01792 405912. Glamorgan Young Farmers For all young people aged 10-26. There are seven clubs in the county with meetings held in various venues. Contact via website. www.glamorgan.btck.co.uk

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this section, the publishers and promoters cannot be held responsible for unintentional errors or omissions. You are advised to check details directly with the organisations and groups concerned. Organisations are included in the above categories for ease of reference. Inclusion within one category or another, however, does not imply incompatibility with any of the categories listed. Organisations are listed in this section in good faith, but inclusion does not imply endorsement by Cowbridge Town Council or Heritage Guides of any organisation listed, nor can these two bodies be held responsible for any organisation’s failure to comply with legal or professional requirements.

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| Cowbridge Town Guide

E AaronKeeler1986@outlook.com

32 | Cowbridge Town Guide

ADVERTISERS INDEX Adrian Nealon.......................32

Hopkins Law...........................4

Anderson & Associates Ltd....24

Jane Hutt................................2

Aroma Cowbridge.................22

Malmo Hearing.....................31

Beauty Within Medi-Spa.......24

Mila Ceramic Restoration......31

Bordervale Plants..................24

MyDentist...............................1

Cameratech Projects Ltd..........4

Norma Davies Opticians..........2

Clive Edwards Contracts Ltd...32 Cowbridge Cabins.................24 Cowbridge Fire Station..........12 Cross Farm Nursery................23 Expressions Fitness..................2 Kumon Study Centre.............31 D K Electrical & Son...............31 FES........................................23

NSC Contruction....................15 O'Sullivan Opticians................4 The Place for Homes.................. ....................Outside back page Robert E Lloyd Optometrists....3 Sylvia Williams........Inside back Topstak...................Inside front

Forest Products.....................14

Vale Tennis Academy.............22

Glamorgan Law LLP................2

The Victoria Inn.....................32

GW of St Clears......................13

Ysgol Iolo Morganwg..............8

Happy Days Vintage store......23

Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Morgannwg

Harries Powell & Price...........22

...............................................8

Victoria Inn The

Sigingstone

Traditional, family run inn in idyllic village near Cowbridge - Home cooked quality food - Sunday roasts - Friday steak night £10 (locally sourced) - Guest ales - Four star ensuite B&B

Tel: 01446 773943

ADRIAN NEALON Plumbing, Heating & Tiling M: 07977 430 289 T: 01446 771 594

Attention to detail is our passion... delivering quality central heating & plumbing services, tiling and bathroom design & fitting is what we do. Based in Cowbridge, we cover the Vale, Cardiff, Bridgend and the Valleys. We keep our costs to a minimum and offer a 12-month guarantee on all installations. For a free quotation, please contact us on the numbers above or email enquiries@adriannealon.co.uk

www.adriannealon.co.uk

Get just the right amount of concrete you need - no waste!

• Concrete produced fresh on site • You only pay for what you’ve laid! • Laying / groundworks carried out if required • Rear discharge for laying in difficult areas without expensive pumps & conveyers Let’s discuss your ideas! Your free consultation is just a phone call away:

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Email: josh@cliveedwardscontracts.co.uk

Sylvia Williams Chemist 34 High Street, Cowbridge CF71 7AG

Prescriptions: Tel 01446 772255 Healthfoods/Photos.Gifts: Tel 01446 773588 www.sylviawilliamspharmacy.co.uk • Prescription and repeat prescription service - either ring us or drop your repeat request form in and we’ll get your prescription ready for you • Free delivery service if required • Emergency contraception • Smoking cessation/ weight reduction/ healthy living/ vaccine and travel health advice available • Passport Photos and Cine/VHS conversion to DVD • Cosmetics perfumes and gifts • Winner in the Pharmacy Business Awards 2015 of the “Natural Healthcare Pharmacy Award” • Finalists in the Pharmacy Business Awards 2015 for the “Health and Beauty Award” and the “Innovation Award”.

Winner; Natural Healthcare Pharmacy Award