April 2016 - The Merthyr Tydfil Times
Transcription
April 2016 - The Merthyr Tydfil Times
THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES APRIL EDITION KERYS WILLIAMS Personal Travel Agent E 01685 647 866 07950 820 465 [email protected] kerys-williams.personaltravelagents.uk.com NEW YEAR NEW YEAR SALE VERTICAL BLINDS SUPPLY & FIT 2 FOR £85 3 FOR £95 4 FOR £127 5 FOR £159 6 FOR £190 PRICES INCLUDE FREE MEASURING FREE FITTING & FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES MAX WIDTH 180 ANY DROP FREE PHONE - 0800 6335 937 OR 01685 350758 NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN AT UNIT 7 PANT INDUSTRIAL ESTATE MERTHYR TYDFIL CF48 2SR WE ARE LOCATED ON THE MAIN ROAD OPPOSITE THE JUNCTION TO HOWDENS & ROBERT PRICE We supply and fit quality Vertical, Roller, Roman, Wood or Aluminium Venetian Blinds, also Perfect fit, Water proof & wipe clean PVC Vertical and Rollers. SALE 3 QUALITY WOODEN VENETIANS SUPPLY & FIT FROM AS LITTLE AS £195 4 FOR £255 5 FOR £315 6 FOR £375 PRICES INCLUDE FREE MEASURING FREE FITTING & FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES Jk’s blind logo FREEFONE 0800 633 5937 OR 01685 350758 NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN AT UNIT 7 PANT INDUSTRIAL ESTATE MERTHYR TYDFIL CF48 2SR WE ARE LOCATED ON THE MAIN ROAD OPPOSITE THE JUNCTION TO HOWDENS & ROBERT PRICE SPECIAL OFFER VERTICAL BLINDS 3 3VERTICAL BLINDS SUPPLIED AND SUPPLIED AND FITTED FITTED FORJUST JUST £99 FOR £95 *OVER 30 COLOURS AND PATTERNS TO CHOOSE FROM MAX WIDTH 180 ANY DROP* ALREADY HAD A QUOTE? WE WILL BEAT ANY LIKE FOR LIKE QUOTE BY 5% PLUS RECOMMEND A FRIEND OR FAMILY AND GET UPTO £15 CASH BACK T&C’S APPLY FREE NO OBLIGATION HOME VISIT - ALL BLINDS ARE FULLY GURANTEED - COMPETITIVE PRICING PVC Vertical & Roller blinds REPLACEMENT LOUVRES VENETIANS Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms, naturally blackout these PVC blinds are water resistant and can be wiped clean. Available in plain or patterned fabrics We have an extensive range of replacement louvres for your existing vertical blinds and they come with new weights and chain as standard starting from as little as £1 per louvre (minimum purchase apply) We have a wide range of wood and aluminium venetians available in gloss, matt and wood grains available in 25,35 and 50mm slats with or without tapes THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES APRIL2016 EDITION LOCALNEWS,YOURNEWS www.tmtt.wales FREE PAPER KAYKEL COMMUNICATIONS SUPPLY AND PROFESSIONALLY INSTALL DIGITAL AERIALS SKY EXTENSIONS & REPAIRS - TELEPHONE EXTENSIONS BROADBAND REPAIRS - BROADBAND LINE TESTS FLAT SCREEN TV WALL MOUNTING SERVICE FREESAT - CCTV 01685 389521 or 07973 153144 www.kaykel.co.uk Bedlinog - Cyfarthfa - Dowlais - Gurnos - Merthyr Vale - Park - Penydarren - Plymouth - Town - Treharris - Vaynor WHICH CANDIDATES ARE HALFWAY TRADING MAKING AN EFFORT TO HOUSE CLEARANCE CONNECT WITH RESIDENTS WANTED ....GOOD QUALITY HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE Only 50% of candidates are making a real effort to connect with constituents.. The 3 biggest parties at the last AM election are ignoring local media sources.. yes yes Julie Colbran, Green Party David Rowlands, UKIP no TOP CASH PRICES PAID Phone Today, We Call Today Phone JOHN on 07581 315778 or the shop on 01685 350967 yes Visit our shop in Pontmorlais If we haven’t got it, you don’t need it. Elizabeth Simon, Conservative no no Food, Glorious Food: page 16 Name: Created with TheTeachersCorner.net Word Search Maker Mount Everest Dawn Bowden, Labour We recently asked all the candidates that are in the running for the position of Assembly Member for Merthyr & Rhymney to submit a small article to introduce Bob Griffin, Liberal Democrat TMTT Reporter themselves to our readers but were shocked at the lack of a response from the candidates OVER 5000 TOOLS PLUMBING - DECORATING - WOODWORK POWER TOOLS - ELECTRICAL - AUTOMOTIVE SECURITY - CRAFT - GARDENING TOOL STORAGE - SAFETY & WORKWEAR PHONE 01685 388 366 FOR YOUR FREE CATALOGUE HAND TOOLS GUARANTEED FOREVER POWER TOOLS GUARANTEED FOR 3 YEARS Brian Thomas, Plaid Cymru of the three biggest parties at the last AM election. It seems to us that the candidates are taking it for granted that their "Loyal Supporters" are going to stay loyal to them. The articles from the candidates that replied can be found inside. Julie Colbran: Page 9. David Rowlands: Page 12. Elizabeth Simon: Page 3. JACKY’S TAXIS FRIENDLY RELIABLE SERVICE School Contracts Etc. FEMALE DRIVER Tel: 01685 388 366 Mob: 07814 789 564 U C H L J M Y I N T Q M Q P T Z G W J B W F D I J W V B G S U C T O X S Y K J K W O V F R O S T B I T E H V C R F I L F I P F B A S E C A M P Y G W R N B V Z M C J G X Y R T V X E O B U A C T E V S D V N O T A E T I D Z W F R R I Q B E Q C X V J F T X S N F I Z I I F M E P M D O M Y P Z N P C T E C W R X S M C C L J N A M E D C E Y D G P R W A Y U J C Y X G L E O R U D G D R L A P D H S G X A R Y T E G O G I A Y L M R L A E K G Z V J Q I T D C Q T K F X E O Q L W A U Q I C D T F E X A I W L H O V X Y G F J F Q S O U Q B N N O D S Z N H K S W I V E A Y S D V X N Z N O K Y U T Z F N Y A L G R Q E K R O M I F M Z X H D I A C Y F X A J Z I C H I B N V T N A Z Y G C E C W L Y T G E J Y K F O G O F Q V K O E L C L L R C E M I I F S C B D X T P X Y J P I E L Q F R C A O H G L W N Y F C V B J H R SUMMIT TENZING OXYGEN SHERPAS Wordsearch: Page 14 HILLARY BASECAMP ALTITUDE NEPAL EXPEDITION FROSTBITE LEARN TO PLAY THE GUITAR Contact me to arrange a free “trial lesson” and find out more about learning to play the guitar. TONY PHILLIPS: 07889 408660 [email protected] take your enjoyment of music a step further and learn to play the guitar with tony at “the right track guitar ltd” Page 2 THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES The Merthyr Tydfil Times Editor Declan Sammon Advertising 074 34 77 63 36 [email protected] News Reports [email protected] The Merthyr Tydfil Times is published by TMTT, c/o 14 Market Street, Dowlais, Merthyr Tydfil. CF48 3HL Views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of The Editor. All rights reserved but you MAY do the following unless it is for financial gain: you MAY photocopy, you MAY store in a retrieval system, MAY transmit electronically, mechanically or otherwise. We have NO political affiliation so you will see a variety of views expressed in this newspaper. Freepress. Household Stores & Park Tea Rooms Anthony Cunningham Butchers in Dowlais Mullins Stores on Penydarren Andrew Cunningham Butchers Penydarren Pentrebach Post Office Peter Williams Butchers Troedyrhiw Piece of Cake Cafe in Troedyrhiw Well Pharmacy in Aberfan Village Store in Aberfan Trinity Childcare Aberfan Merthyr Vale Stores Bridge Stores. Quakers Yard Fir Tree Centre in Quakers Yard Treharris library Treharris Post Office Premier Stores in Treharris Treharris Newsagents West View Stores in Trelewis Bedlinog Newsagents Lifestyle Express in Bedlinog Bedlinog Post Office Premier Castle View Stores, Trefechan Gellideg Post Office & Stores Heolgerrig Post Office Heolgerrig Stores Keir Hardie Health Park Georgetown Stores Cae'r Wern Stores Ash Vets Civic Center Merthyr Tydfil College Merthyr Indoor Market with Lee Heggie Manettes Merthyr Tydfil Library Rehouse Bryn Stores Owens Store Trefechan Premier Bakery Cefn Blue Lagoon Turkish Barbour, Cefn Coed West End Bowls Club Brecon Road spar Popty Castle tea rooms Cyfarthfa Museum SIDS Nisa local- Brecon Road Dowlais Library Raj's shop on Dowlais high street Pant Supermarket Pant Post Office Ryans News on Roberts Avenue Prince Charles Hospital Premier Stores Gurnos 3G's Gurnos Rhymney Library If we have forgotten to list your venue, let us know. Celebrating Claire's birthday Parking tickets outside Tabernacle Chapel I am writing this as a member of Tabernacle Baptist Church on Brecon Road in response to your recent comments on parking. I am very sympathetic to the concerns of the residents regarding their parking problems, which are not confined to Park Ward but are a county wide problem. However, I do feel that targeting the members of a chapel during their hour long Sunday service is inappropriate. We all know that parking congestion is caused mainly by Susan Jenkins Local Resident multi vehicle households including the increasing number of work vehicles parked in residential areas. Sadly there is no easy answer to this problem, but picking on a small chapel congregation is not a solution. Also, I was disappointed to read Councillor Toomey's statement that our Pastor had warned the congregation that the res- idents were unhappy about the parking. As we have not had a Pastor for the last four and a half years I am curious to know who Councillor Toomey is referring to. Finally I would like to extend a warm welcome to all the residents to come to one of our services at 11o'clock on Sundays to see how beautiful and full of faith and love our chapel is, and how very important it is that it remain open. MORLAIS RESTAURANT RE-OPENED UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT BREAKFAST AND LUNCH SERVED FROM 10am DAILY. SUNDAY LUNCH FROM 12pm, EAT IN OR TAKEAWAY. ALL FOOD IS HOME COOKED. 07949393775 FOR BOOKINGS Breakthrough poetry set Phil Howells HAVE you been inspired by a favourite poem or has a song heard at a wedding, funeral, sporting event or somewhere else meant something to you? If so, you may want to share it at Breakthrough, an evening of poems and songs inspired by the Christian faith to be held at Carmel Baptist Chapel, Wyndham Street, Troedyrhiw, on Thursday April 7 at 7.15pm. The three poetry workshops, facilitated by Isobel Jones, of Merthyr Tydfil, have now been held followed by rehearsals ready for the event. A selection of poems by people from the borough has been chosen to be performed with original and classic read- ings and some original songs but there will also be an "Open Mic" when others will have a chance to take part by reading their own work or their favourite items. Breakthrough will aid Cancer Aid at Merthyr Tydfil and Barnardo's Cymru. Tickets are now available at £2 (children accompanied go free but tickets are needed). It will also be possible to pay on the night. There will be free light refreshments afterwards. Churches throughout the borough have been informed but the evening is open to the public in general. For more detais or tickets or to reserve them or to get them sent to you, contact Carmel on their Facebook page. or email carmeltroedyrhiw@ yahoo.co.uk Thanks from Nosey My thanks must go to the 'Times' and the Dowlais Ward Councillors in making a start at cleaning up the area of Blaen Dowlais and the Gwernllwyn road site of the old Guest Keen works. Still a long way to go but its a good start. Keep up the pressure because the next rubbish pictures are in the camera and ready to be published in the 'Times' next month if no further progress is made. WATCH OUT COS NOSEY'S ABOUT Troedyrhiw Tidy Up Pauline Rees A mini spring clean took place on Saturday 19th March in Troedyrhiw. Under the guidance of Jake Castle of "Keep Wales Tidy" several local community groups including Friends of Saron, Carmel Crusaders, 6th Merthyr Scouts, Willows Centre and Troedyrhiw NHW along with our local councillors Brent and Gareth all helped to give the village a much need- ed clean up. More than 50 bags of litter along with other discarded items, such as car tyres and toys was collected from various parts of the village. Hopefully this is just the begining and more litter picks will take place shortly. NHW would like to extend huge thanks to all who took part on the day, and hope that many more residents will come on board to tackle various issues concerning litter clean ups. Page 3 THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES Free Golf Rebecca Meredith Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Trust is pleased to now be able to offer use of the tennis courts and golf course at Cyfarthfa Park for free from April 1st, 2016. The announcement forms part of the Trust’s strategy to encourage visitors to take part in physical activity and use the facilities available within Cyfarthfa Park. Their plans also support the Active Merthyr Initiative which is run in conjunction with Sport Wales. Cyfarthfa boasts three tennis courts and a nine-hole short golf course which is open to the public from Easter to September every year. Golfing equipment will still be available to hire from the Canolfan Cyfarthfa. A small deposit will be required which will be fully refunded when equipment is returned. Kevin O’Neill, Chairman of the Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Trust said: “We have some great facilities within Cyfarthfa Park and our goal is to get more people active and using these facilities with their families and friends. “We hope removing the charges will make it easier for people to participate and we look forward to a busy summer of activity at the Park.” For further details please contact Rebecca Meredith, Marketing Manager on 01685 727432. Elizabeth Simon, Conservative candidate for the position of AM I'm often asked why I'm standing for AM in Merthyr Tydfil & Rhymney – I don't have a chance, the Labour candidate will clearly win. My answer's simple: Wales deserves better. In 17 years of Labour control, we've seen the Welsh NHS suffer from drastic budget shortages and hospital closures; 1 in 7 people on hospital waiting lists and ambulance response TMTT Reporter times the worst ever. whilst in education, Labour's failures have been so appalling their Education min- Welsh Labour ministers have refused to create a Cancer Treatment Fund like in England, despite receiving a petition of 100,000 signatures calling for the fund. Council tax has risen year on year, despite the UK Conservative government freezing it across England, ister, AM Huw Lewis, had to apologise to the people of Wales. I'm furious our country has been treated this way, let down time and again by a Welsh Government that doesn't believe Wales can do better. I won't stop fighting until the people of Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney have the representative they deserve. One who actually listens and cares about their lives, who isn't just trying to further a career or line their own pockets. Wales deserves a choice – put up with and accept 17 years of failures, or stand up and say “enough is enough”. Editors note: Elizabeth Simon is one of three candidates for the position of AM that have replied to our invitation to speak directly to the people of Merthyr Tydfil. Elizabeth is also a member of Merthyr Council Truths so that she can stay in touch with local residents concerns. Meet the candidates for the position of AM for Merthyr & Rhymney ‘Merthyr Tydfil Trades Union Council are pleased to announce that they will be holding a Hustings in Canolfon Zoar on Monday 25 April for the candidates standing in the Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney Constituency Election for the National Assembly for Wales. All eligible voters are invited to attend and submit questions on the night for the candidates to answer. Doors will open at 7.00pm for the public to collect a card to submit their question and the hustings will start at 7.30pm. Admission is free but in order to try to cover the cost of the venue we ask that you make a small donation of whatever you can afford. This is your opportunity to meet your candidates, listen to their candidate address and hopefully have your question answered so please come along as, with the election being only ten days later, you may find it useful in making up your mind where to place your cross on the ballot paper. ‘ Editors Note: Let's hope that some of the candidates show more willingness to engage with local people than they have so far. Page 4 THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES Phil Howells' Poetry Collection A CONTRIBUTOR to the Merthyr Tydfil Times has a collection of poetry just published. ports to national daily newspapers, etc. Observer series, then returning to the Merth- Obscured By Clouds is a paperback containing 40 poems with some about Merthyr Tydfil, including social issues, two about Merthyr Town Football Club (well publicised in this newspaper), as well as other verse. There is humour,pathos and there are moments of reflection. Phil is a retired fulltime journalist, but is still writing. From Troedyrhiw, and educated at the local primary school and then at Quakers Yard Grammar School, he began his career at the Merthyr Express as a general news reporter, covering all manner of assignments. He also reported on Merthyr Football Club for the Express and for various Sunday newspapers' Welsh editions and regjonal publications.He also contributed news re- Phil said:" My poems are not the da da da da da type, most of them don't rhyme, but are a mixture of comment and observation. "I wrote some back in the 1970s but started again four years ago while attending The Open Mic nights at The Imperial Hotel, Merthyr Tydfil, under local poet Mike Jenkins. "The authors I enjoy are Charles Dickens and Iris Murdoch. Words and music play a big part in my life. Bob Dylan,Jackson Browne, Warren Zevon, Don McLean, Ron Sexsmith and Harry Chapin are some of favourite singer-songwriters, and song lyrics are often seen as poetry." He was later a sub-editor, Production Editor at the then Celtic Press weekly newspaper base at Dowlais, News Editor of The Merthyr Express, Assistant Editor of The Pontyprid yr Express as Editor. After leaving full-time journalism, he worked at the Department of Work and Pensions in Merthyr Tydfil for five years before finally retiring. The book sells at £5, and anyone interested in obtaining a copy ,may contact the writer at philatmount@ yahoo.com,or personally at Merthyr football matches and wherever he may be seen. 2016 RBS Six Nations competition In a competition run by the Rotary Club of Merthyr Tydfil for raising funds for various charities participants needed to predict the outcome of each game. One point for each correct prediction and three points if they predicted a draw. The tie breaker was to Colin Parker predict the total number of Tries scored in the competition. The maximum number of points was 17 and the total number of tries scored was 70. The winner of the £100 prize is Geraint Jones who is from Ystrad Mynach with a score of 13 and predicted tries 71. Our congratulation to him. Watch out for our Euro 2016 competition coming soon. The next fund raising event by the Rotary Club will be in ASDA Superstore on the 29th and 30th April 2016. We do hope you will be generous in your support. Anyone interested in joining Rotary International can enquire by going onto the Rotary website or telephone 01685 385563. Troedyrhiw meeting Phil Howells FRIENDS of Saron will hold their annual general meeting at The Willows Centre, Troedyrhiw, on Thursday April 21 at 6.30pm. All are welcome to attend to hear about the latest plans for the old graveyard. If anyone has mobility problems, they can reach the upstairs cafe, where the meeting will be held, via the ground-floor lift. Light refreshments will be avalable, free of charge. The gent in pink will be missed, he is leaving to start a new life in the air with Easyjet. He loves everyone and everyone loves him Cefn community centre fights back With the local authority withdrawing 40% of its funding amounting to £22k pa.things have been financially tough over the last 3 years. The centre has over 500 people of all ages using the facilities which is open 60 hours a week Monday to Friday.It opens weekends on request for special occations. The centre has wonderful facilities with disabled access to all areas. Activities such as nursery, craft, gardening, flower arranging, Welsh, art, photography and the more physical activities of kick boxing, boccia, dancing, dog training, zumba, kettle bells and many others. The centre , which has been established for over 40 years, is open to anyone or any group wishing to use the The centre employs 1 full time manager with 2 part time assistants. It is a registered charity and run on a not for profit basis. facilities. Why not contact the manager Lisa Lewis on 01685 389717 to view the excellent facilities available. Colin Parker Commercial Units To Let In Merthyr Tydfil Unit 1 To Let Comprising of 3 Office’s, 1 x Indoor Storage area 1 x Outdoor Storage Area Kitchen & Toilet Total Area 780 Sq Feet Exempt from Council Rates Unit 2 To Let COMPRISING OF LARGE WORKING AREA, 2 OFFICES PLUS SMALL STORAGE AREA Electric Shutter Alarm System 2 x Staff toilet’s and Wash-hand basins Phone lines ZERO VAT Total Area 3000 Sq Feet Very Low Council Rates For Further Details Telephone Telephone 07855 802518 Page 5 THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES Spring is in the air... but not everything is rosy in the garden SADLY THIS SPRING SEES THE SOWING OF SEEDS OF DISTRUST. Our thoughts must go to those people of Belgium. For them spring will be forever more tinged with a deep sadness. The latest terrorist attacks have robbed them of their loved ones, but also that of trust. Family members, neighbours, work colleagues, or tourists are under a cloud of suspicion, they are rightly afraid terrorists are walking among them. SPRING WATCH AND CLOCKS Everyone has been trying to work out if the clocks go forwards or back. Should seedlings stay safe and warm in their packets? Do we scatter them in Town Crier our flowerbeds, hoping the frost doesn’t get them or that chilly northerly wind blows them away? However, as we think of longer day light hours and warmer times there are two events, which could change our little patch of the planet, Merthyr Tydfil. MUCK SPREADING TIME Not farmers, but politicians. As a child, each Autumn , I had my annual bout of tonsillitis. I would spend up to two weeks downstairs, on the little faux brown leather settee (only the posh had sofas) cwtched up under the welsh blanket, and by a real, roaring, coal fire. In front of me, the television set, and if I remember right only one channel. Out of sheer boredom, I watched men standing behind lecterns, their fists punching the air in the fervent belief their ideals were the right ones, in other words, the political party conferences. It was from here the seeds of my political awareness grew. I was in awe when these men raised great cheers from their audience. I watched mystified as to why one man holding a card was speaking for thousands. I would store up my questions until, my political mentor; my father came home from the colliery. He told me the party leaders were preaching to their own kind so they would cheer and the unions had great power with the block vote. I wish he was here now but I doubt if even he could lead me through the spiralling webs of spin-doctors and the media with their endless editing which can twist the truth. Soon we will have to decide who is to represent us in the National Assembly of Wales. Many years ago, Merthyr people would joke saying if the labour candidate was a donkey he would ‘get in’. This could be true of the older generation as they remember very well how the Labour Party gave the working class a voice. Due to distrust, my political fascination wilted a long time ago and nettles of contempt for politicians have grown in its place, and that makes me sad. EARLY SUMMER. June, and THAT referendum, to stay in the European Union or not? The media is full of politicians, experts, journalists, and political commentators who understand better than I do the pros and cons of such an important decision. However, when they cannot agree how do I decide? Nevertheless, vote I must or my father will never forgive me and lightening will come down from the skies. So when my hand quivers over those voting slips I really do hope my crosses go into the right boxes. Somehow, I think I have more chance of putting my seedling out at the right time than picking the right person to represent me. WE REAP WHAT WE SOW. Not everything we plant grows to full fruition. One of the seeds I had recently sown did not fall on fertile ground but sadly could not be cultivated to grow and blossom. You may know about Rose Mary Crawshay who founded a yearly literary prize. The British Academy, who is now in charge, still keeps the name The Rose Mary Crawshay Prize. I posted my seed of an idea to those concerned. Bad news they have looked at their budget and do not have the money to hold an event in our town in her honour. However, there is some good news in their rejection, they did actually consider it. The person I spoke to was very apologetic that they could not fund such a good idea. At least this little seed of an idea has gown roots, albeit it tenuous, in their events department. I hope that one day, someone will nurture it and perhaps it will bloom so future Merthyr Tydfil generations can benefit from it. Just imagine a world famous writer walking up the red-carpeted steps into Cyfartha Castle to receive The Rose Mary Crawshay Prize in what was once her home. WEEDS This little weed is beginning to wilt, so bye for now. g n i r p S h s e r F Fashionable clothes.... ....Sensible prices.. Casual Cruising Holidays Weddings We've got it all covered! Where else? Less expensive than Marks and Spencer Manettes 95/96 High Street, Merthyr Tyd�il Tel: 01685 722733 We are near the Old Town Hall ask anyone in Merthyr We look forward to seeing you!!! More individual than Bonmarche Page 6 THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES A sign of things to come? Merthyr Council Truths The Labour candidate was asked to give us an article of around 100 words for this newspaper.. what we got was a press release from a member of her staff......Is this lack of interest in local events and people to be expected in the future if she is elected...Time will tell..... Merthyr Tydfil & Rhymney’s new Welsh Labour candidate for the Assembly election, Dawn Bowden, launched her campaign on Saturday, 19 March at the high street, Merthyr Tydfil surrounded by supporters and well-wishers. Ms. Bowden currently works for the trade union Unison supporting NHS employees across Wales. Speaking at the launch of her campaign, Ms. Bowden said: “The election on Thursday, 5 May is about a vision for the type of country and community we want to live in. “As savage cuts continue to be imposed by the Tory UK gov- Press Release sent by Chris Binding ernment, Welsh Labour is the only party who are putting working people first. “I’ve spent many years representing working people as a trade union officer and I am eager to put my skills to use on behalf of people here in Merthyr Tydfil & Rhymney. “My campaign is about making Merthyr Tydfil & Rhymney an even better place to live, work and visit. It’s about supporting working parents, providing training to young people, helping small businesses, improving school standards and protecting our beloved NHS.” Addressing the gathered crowd of supporters, Ms. Bowden added: “We know that local communities have taken a knock from successive Conservative governments. But I’ve seen community groups who are resilient, passionate and determined to do right for their communities. “I am on their side and if I’m elected on Thursday, 5 May I will work tirelessly to be their champion in the National Assembly.” Speaking after the launch, Welsh Labour’s Deputy Health Minister, Vaughan Gething AM, added: “Dawn has a long history of representing working people and of standing up for our NHS. This election will decide the future of the NHS in Wales: cuts and privatisation under the Conservatives or an NHS free at the point of use with Welsh Labour. “I know that Dawn will make an excellent Assembly Member and will be a passionate and hardworking AM for everyone here in Merthyr Tydfil & Rhymney. With a current membership of 9510, the Facebook page called Merthyr Council Truths is growing daily and has seen three of the six candidates for the position of Assembly Member for Merthyr & Rhymney recently join it's ranks. The candidates that have joined are also TMTT Reporter the ones that have been in contact with this newspaper showing that they are serious about local issues. Other members facebook notable of the page include Vaynor Councillor Lisa Mytton who must be said is very in tune with her local constituents concerns. There are those that are flippant of the site but with nearly 10,000 members, it could just be the place to help swing the vote in favour of candidates. Tackling Litter in Cefn Coed After living near London for most of our working life, my husband and I decided to up sticks and retire to Merthyr Tydfil. Best thing we ever did! Lynn Ashraf at moaning and it’s always ‘the council’s fault!’ And the moan of the moment is LEARN TO PLAY THE DRUMS !!! rubbish to the dump. Dumping and littering is a UK wide problem, but rather than blaming the council for not clearing it up, shouldn’t we be more concerned with those who litter in the first place? A group of about 10 residents in Cefn decided that the best thing to do is clear it up ourselves, so, we got together, borrowed some litter pickers from Keep Wales Tidy and cleared up the Taff Trail ourselvesand it looks great. It’s an occasional hour’s exercise, a good laugh and gives us a nice warm glow when we’ve finished. Then, we just drop an email to the council and they pick up the bags. What could be easier? PHONE GREG ON 07868 129984 BA (Hons), d1prsl CONGRATULATIONS I love the people here, your quirky sense of humour, those funny words you use and your friendliness- you actually chat with complete strangers on the bus! But, on the negative side, some of you are very good rubbish- “it’s the new recycling scheme” is the favourite. In fact it’s a minority of irresponsible residents who just can’t be bothered to take their litter home or their excess So, if your area’s awash with litter, my advice to you is- don’t just moan, get off your backside and do something about it. Keep Wales Tidy is a good place to start. get.rid.of.litter@gmail. com April ad_final.pdf C M Y CM MY CY CMY K 1 31/03/2016 09:03 Page 8 THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES Friends of Saron Fight On 1931 Angling Association Cup DESPITE two major blows, The Friends of Saron are determinedly pressing ahead in their bid to restore the old graveyard. They were disappointed to hear that the leaseholders of the site, The Union of Welsh Independents, would not support their application for funding - to repair boundary walls- from The Heritage Lottery Fund because of their stance on gambling. But, in any case, The HLF informed The Friends that they could not proceed with their bid as it didn't meet their criteria. David Collier, chair, said:"We always knew that the hard work that our volunteers have Phil Howells been carrying out to improve the interior of the graveyard would not be the oly challenge that the project would face and we weren't wrong." Repairs to the collapsed retaining wall are estimated to cost £40,000. But The HLF wrote:"From your project enquiry form, I can see that this essential structural work is part of a wider project but as you would only be asking HLF for funding for the structural work, I’m afraid the project presented to us"would not achieve all the outcomes required to be successful. If you wanted to devel- op a wider project with opportunities to help people learn about the heritage you are exploring, please do get back in touch to discuss." The Friends are pursuing, on advice, possible funding from another source, following discussion at their latest meeting held at The Angel Inn. Repairs to the wall are needed so FoS can proceed with their other plans to improve the site and hopefully eventually set up a wildlife memorial garden there. **Two days after the meeting, The Friends held their Volunteer Day at the graveyard as well as joining with other village groups in a Litter Picking bid to tidy up the village. Marie Curie daffodil collection Colin Parker The collection which took place during February and March throughout the Borough and in many locations . . So many groups , organisations , churches were involved in collecting it is encouraging to see our community working together for such a good cause, raised a total of £2677 The Rotary Club who collected on a Saturday in the Retail Parc collected £774.04p. They were suprised how many people from outside our area had travelled to shop there. Places like Neath, Hay on Wye, Caerphilly, Radyr, Aberdare, Glyn Neath, Ebbw Vale and Abergavenny. Its a pity we can't get them into the town afterwards ! ! ANY IDEAS ? Contact the Times. Cancer Aid in bloom at last The gardens surrounding Cancer Aid Merthyr Tydfil are now in spring bloom. Clients arriving at the centre have great " First Impressions " of the centre and the wonderful work that it does. The garden which has been knocked into shape over the past year by the Rotary Club of Merthyr Tydfil and they now fully maintain it. Tracey Burke the centre manager said " The beauty of the garden gives everyone a lift. Staff ,Clients, Carer, and Colin Parker Volunteers alike ". David Robbins ,the President of the Rotary Club said " one who plants a garden plants happiness" Dear Sir As the enclosed letter indicates it was around June 2005 when the following sequence of events occurred. Anthony Rees home and kept it safe. er bag I found it contained a Cup last presented or at least last engraved in 1931 and it had been presented to the Merthyr Borough Angling Association. The only association I can remember was the Merthyr and District who amalgamated with St Tydfil Angling association to form the present Merthyr Tydfil Angling Association. I took it In about two to three weeks of the cup being left with myself a received a letter attached from a Victor Parker of Bournemouth who had called me regarding two photographs he had of a fishing competition held at Pontsarn . He indicated that Bob Parker was the third from the right with the stick. Due to his son not willing to part with the photographs, I do not blame him he sent me copies and they scanned in well The Pictures were taken outside what was the Pontsarn Hotel that was at the time together with the Church Tavern a regular watering hole so I am told for Anglers. I still cannot get over the coincidence of the two things coming together after all those years in such a short time. I used to be partner in the business Millwards Butchers opened in 1840 when Merthyr was a booming town with the iron works in full swing the shop is still there selling meat. I have also been Treasurer of Merthyr Anglers since 1970 and still am. I had retired and as my nephew was running the business I kept in touch helping out. Returning to the shop one day during that July I was informed that a person whose name I did not recognised had left a fishing Trophy for myself as it belonged to the Association and he had come back from Australia To this day I cannot place who that person could have been. On opening the carri- outside what was the Pontsarn Hotel, Bob Parker with stick on the right. Circa 1920, Bob Parker third from the right. CONGRATULATIONS Page 9 THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES Heritage Lottery Fund’s £1.2m support to continue Merthyr Tydfil’s renaissance The transformation of Merthyr Tydfil town centre is set to continue with a £1.2m award from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to help preserve its unique character. Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council has received initial support¹ for its HLF Townscape Heritage (TH)² bid for the Pontmorlais Townscape Heritage Quarter, Continuing the Renaissance project. The £1.9m initiative joint-funded by HLF, the local authority and Cadw, will see the ongoing refurbishment of a number of Jackie Huybs historically important buildings - providing new jobs and training opportunities - as part of a vision to create a Heritage Quarter combining arts and culture facilities with niche retailers. Development funding of £33,300 has also been awarded to help the County Borough Council progress their plans to apply for a full grant at a later date. “This investment will preserve the unique industrial landscape character of the most significant Welsh town of the Industrial Revolution,” said Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council Leader Cllr Brendan Toomey. “Our aim is to preserve the historic buildings in the area and preserve or re-introduce the features that make each building special.” In 2011, a TH award of £1.58m was given towards the first phase of the project, which saw the restoration of 10 buildings including the Grade II listed St David’s Hall. This area was prioritised as it contains a number of significant Meet the Green Party candidate Dear residents of Merthyr and Rhymney, I would like to introduce myself, My name is Julie Colbran and I am the Green Party candidate for Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney. I am just an ordinary person,who grew up in a working class industrial valley, my father was a miner and I know all about the issues that concern local people. I was a lifelong Labour supporter, until New Labour started drifting away from me, I felt that it no longer spoke for me. Feeling frustrated and disillusioned by politics in general, I became drawn to the Green Party, the only party that spoke for ordinary people. I care deeply about local issues concerning local peo- ple, I would love the opportunity to work for you and give you a voice in the Senedd. The Green Party are not a one policy party, we have a comprehensive manifesto that includes: Housing, education, diverse the representatives in the Senedd, the more democracy is possible. A Green voice in the Welsh Government can make a huge difference, and a real challenge to the closed, business as usual world of politics that we have at the moment. Thank you for taking the time to read this, and consider voting Green on the 5th of May 2016. Editors note: health, energy, transport, jobs and climate change. We would like to protect and develop the communities of Wales, and encourage the Welsh language and culture. The more open and Julie Colbran is one of three candidates for the position of AM that have replied to our invitation to speak directly to the people of Merthyr Tydfil. Julie is also a member of Merthyr Council Truths so that she can stay in touch with local residents concerns. CONGRATULATIONS listed buildings with a high architectural value, some of which have already benefited from inward investment including the Old Town Hall (Redhouse), Canolfan Soar and the former YMCA. Cllr Toomey said the Pontmorlais area lacked the economic vitality of the nearby High Street, and small businesses were under severe pressure – compounded by out of town retail parks - which had led to a lack of maintenance and deterioration of the heritage buildings. “As a result, Pontmorlais should develop a niche function in order to rebuild its vitality,” he added. “The vision is to create a Heritage Quarter where arts, culture, and media will flourish alongside niche retailers that will attract a wide range of visitors from across the region.” ifications and work placements on heritage schemes across the region. The County Borough Council is developing a partnership with Merthyr College, Tydfil Training and local contractors to provide training in traditional building skills, resulting in students gaining more formal qual- Richard Bellamy, Head of HLF Wales, said: “Historic town centres are the beating heart of communities, so where they fall into disrepair, the community pays a heavy price. Research shows that “This has proved successful, as evidenced by the progress of our current scheme - and is something that we intend to develop and further implement,” said Cllr Toomey. this can be changed and that even small changes - improving shop fronts or restoring architectural features - can make a real difference. “Bringing further Pontmorlais buildings back into use will attract new enterprises to the area and assist existing businesses by increasing footfall and job opportunities, which has started to develop following phase one. HLF is pleased to support this worthwhile project.” Page 10 THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES Toilet Twinning Update The Funeral of John Reddy The Parish of Merthyr Tydfil closed their Toilet Twinning Charity Appeal with an amazing £1735.00p. This cheque was presented to the charity at a special service on Sunday 13th March to mark the end of our Mission Week, at Abercanaid Community School. The Archbishop of Llandaff presided at the service and as a thank you he was presented with a toilet plaque, for his own personal toilet! He was delighted, it was something he had always wanted! So much money has been raised that every church in the Parish will be able to display at least one plaque in each of their toilets, and one has been given to Cyfarthfa Primary School for their kind donation. We were able to put school toilet blocks in Chad, Susan Morris Kenya, India and Pakistan, and individual toilets in Afghanistan, Burundi, Cambodia, Ethiopia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Bangladesh, Uganda, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, Guatemala, Pakistan, India, Phillipines and Liberia. We have covered the world with toilets! Once again our thanks to everyone who helped with this project, Brenda and Roger for inspiring the Sunday School children at St Tydfil's Well Church, Quar to undertake the challenge, 2nd Merthyr Scouts, Cubs and Beavers for their help and participation in the sponsored walk and to the members of our churches, St David's, Ss Peter and Paul and St Tydfil's Well for digging deep and giving so gen- erously to this vital Charity - TOILET TWINNING!! took place on March 14th... HOW John Reddy, whose funeral was held on March 14, helped his grandson Luke go off on a European fooball jaunt wih mixed feellings, has been told. Former councillor and Mayor, ex-chairman of the then Merthyr Tydfil Football Club, businesman and church worker. JR, as he was known to many had his requiem mass at St Mary's Roman Catholic Church, Merthyr Tydfil, and before a large attendance, Luke, in an emotional eulogy, paid tribute. The year was 2005 and the club he followed, Liverpool, were to meet Mlan in The Champions League Final at Istanbul, Turkey.He was withour tickets. But John Reddy timely told him he OMG!....A devilishly dark play about sex, betrayal and the beginning of time......... The Writers and Director of the hilarious play The Wizard of Gurnwah, which debuted at last year’s Merthyr Rising Festival, proudly return this year with a brand new and original comedy OMG! Written by Anthony Bunko & Paul O’Sullivan and directed by Neil Maidman, OMG! features cast members from The Wizard of Gurnwah as well as some new faces, ready to take you on a journey through this devilishly dark comedy about sex, betrayal and the beginning of time. But be warned, this play contains strong language, scenes of a sexual nature… and large bananas! TMTT Reporter Anthony Bunko told us that they were amazed by the success of last year’s show the Wizard of Gurnwah, which is actually performing for two nights at Aberdare Coliseum in sept 2016. have never been to the theatre before to come and see it and enjoy the entire experience. It is a play for the masses, not for the upper classes ha ha.’ ‘This comedy is all about the beginning of time and a feud between God and Lucifer. It includes Adam Team Gurnwah ‘It is great to see how much talent there is in this town and our aim is to get people who and Eve, the Garden of Eden and a host of weird and wonderful characters and animals including Liam Gallagher and a vampire nun.’ Premiering exclusively at this year’s Merthyr Rising Festival on Thurs 2nd June and Friday 3rd June 2016 at 8pm, you’d be mad to miss it and even madder if you don’t! Find us on www.facebook.com/gurnwah for all the latest updates! Tickets available exclusively from Theatre Soar Box Office Tel: 01685 722176 or https://uk.patronbase.com/_Soar/ Productions/F5/ Performances Tickets £9 + £1 booking fee, 16yrs+ Bar open from 7pm Approx. running time 2hrs + interval Phil Howells had been given ttickets for the big game. Luke had hopes of taking a mate and enjoying experience, with a few drinks. But grandad John said he would go with him. "And he kept an eye on me all the time," Luke told the mourners, regaling them with John's bartering over the price of goods in a bazaar. But it was a good trip with Liverpool winning on penalties after being 3-0 down. Luke said that many people would have crossed paths in their lives with John Reddy through his various commitments during his active life. His Grace Archbishop George Stack and Canon Barry English officiated at the ser- vice and at the interment at Cefn Coed Cemetery. The Archbishop spoke of Mr Reddy's work and love for the church, and it was fitting that pupils of Bishop Hedley High School were present to read some of the lessons. Former Aston Villa, Birmingham and Wrexham midfielder, Merthyr-born Kevin Rogers, who was a member of the successful Merthyr Tydfil team when they beat Atalanta in the first leg of The European Cup Winners Cup in 1987, under manager Lyn Jones, was one of the bearers, who also included Wayne Hodgkins, a club director at the time. Rogers said, before the hearse left for Cefn Coed:"They were great years, including all those long bus trips across the country. You couldn't make up such a great story." John Strand, board secretary of the present Merthyr Town FC, who paid tribute to Mr Reddy in a recent match-day programme, took part in the bidding prayers at the church. Also among the mourners at the church was former MP for Merthyr Tydfil, Ted Rowlands, who was often seen, with his family, at Merthyr matches. JR leaves wife Dot, son Anthony and grandson Luke. Donations in his memory were to St Mary's RC Church Restoration Fund. Page 12 THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES Gerald Jones MP backs ‘Keep Sunday Special’ Last week Gerald Jones MP attended a lobby of Parliament organised by the Keep Sunday Special coalition to oppose the Government’s proposal to devolve Sunday trading regulations. Members of shopworkers union Usdaw and convenience store owners met with MPs to explain how extended opening in large stores will reduce trade for small stores and lead to even more retail staff in large stores being pressured to work longer hours on Sundays. The Labour MP for Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney said: “The Sunday Trading Act is a great British compromise, which gives everyone a little bit of what they want. Retailers can trade, customers can shop, staff can work; whilst Sun- TMTT Reporter day remains a special day, different to other days, and shopworkers can spend some time with their family. “I am convinced that shops are currently open long enough for people to do their shopping and that Sunday should remain a special day, different to any other. I oppose devolving Sunday trading because it will lead to longer opening hours. “Extending Sunday trading does not mean customers have more money to spend, it would not create jobs and could lead to the closure of smaller stores. So this is not a way to boost the local economy or help town centres. It would be detrimental to shopworkers and their families, as well as wider society, so I am pleased to be supporting the Keep Sunday Special campaign.” John Hannett – Usdaw General Secretary says: “Usdaw and our members are delighted to have the support of Gerald and many others who value the special nature of Sunday and want to protect it. There is no great desire from shopworkers, customers or retailers for these changes and many oppose them. “The Government are pushing through these changes in the final stages of a Bill which will be voted on next week, but without having published any up to date economic evidence to support their case, any impact assessment or a family test to weigh up the effect on the families of shopworkers, who already work long hours at weekends. “We are therefore calling on all MPs to oppose this illthought-out measure and for the Government to concentrate on supporting retail businesses and their staff.” David Rowlands, UKIP candidate for AM Last year I had the privilege of standing as the UKIP candidate in the Merthyr and Rhymney constituency coming second to Labour. During my campaign I was struck by the resilience and aspirations of all those I met, but was disappointed to see the neglect of Merthyr and the surrounding valleys by the Assembly Government. The people of Merthyr and Rhymney have been overwhelmingly loyal to Labour for over 100 years. They deserve better. UKIP is the only party to stand up exclusively for the BRITISH working classes. As an Assembly member I promise to make Merthyr a town to be proud of once more. Troedyrhiw News Round-up THE ladies' hairdressers Style And Smile closed in Bridge Street, Troedyrhiw after just a few months. It was always going to be difficult as there were already four other such businesses in the village. A barber's shop opened a few years ago but that also didn't last long. Opening a business in a village is not easy these days but the time was when Troedyrhiw folk did most of their weekly shopping in the village, and went to Merthyr Tydfil only on special occasions. Hard to imagine the large number of shops there were in Troedyrhiw in the 1960s and earlier. *** Carmel Baptist Chapel had a busy month leading up to Easter. There was a suitable theme to the morning services officiated by David Chilcott, Geraint James and Rob Devereux. On :Palm Sunday Pastor Chilcott spoke about the King who rode into Jerusalem on a humble donkey. Meditation was observed during an event at Carmel on Maundy Thursday. The Good Friday morning service allowed the congregation to meditate on TMTT Reporter Jesus' sacrifice on the Cross. Open communion followed. In the afternoon there was a Famly Event with Easter-themed activities and games, with prizes, for children, followed by refreshments. In the evening the feature film The Gospel of John was shown. The services culminated in morning and evening services held on Easter Sunday. Refreshments were also served. Carmel were thanked for their work and donations for the Merthyr Cyon Foodbank. Especially needed recently were jars of cooking sauce, tins of carrots and small tins of sweetcorn. Carmel were saddened by the death of Bryn Satch at the age of 82. He had been unwell for a while. Sympathy was extended to daughters Louise, Sandra and Jane and to the other familty members. Bryn was a stalwart at Carmel and wellknown in the village. Youngsters from The Crusaders at Carmel and others helped take part in the Spring Clean-up held in Tro- edyrhiw on March 19 involving local organisations and the ward councillors. A very special day was held on March 18 in Carmel. All the children from Troedyrhiw Community Primary School were welcomed for an Easter service. With loads of action songs and a film they seemed to love it. David Chilcott and Liz Jamed did a great job telling them the Easter story and about Palm Sunday, reported Youth Leader Matthew Kendrick who also took part and made the preparations. The children really enjoyed all the action songs and gave it plenty of effort. "It was such a pleasure to have them with us again," said Matthew. The school thanked Carmel for making links with them. Phil Howells read three poems at the March Open Mic Night at The Imperial Hotel, Merthyr Tydfil, on March 17 when Bargoed poet Julie Pritchard launched her latest collection, The Healing Garden. A PACT meeting will be held at The Willows Centre on Thursday April 7 at 6pm. WHATS NEW BEGINNERS CHILDRENS FREESTYLE DANCE CLASS MONDAYS 5.00 - 6.00 WITH SCOTT AT THE CATHOLIC HALL, DOWLAIS. FOR DETAILS WWW.DANCEWITHSIMON.COM Tel. 01443 690647 mobile 07904389019. Page 13 THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES ONE MORE LOCAL “MARKET” So far these pages of the Merthyr Times have contained several markets, their location and rich histories. One type of “mart” or “market” remains, a throwback to the semi-rural, pagan customs, practices and rituals of Merthyr Tydfil life at the beginning of the 19th century. Judging by references contained in local newspapers this particular practice borrowed from the countryside was dying out by the second quarter of the 19th century, by the 1840s: that of the sale of a wife! Given the predicament of woman hood then, that she was merely a chattel or item of ownership possessing no inherent rights under the law, it was custom and practice in extreme cases for the husband – for whatever reason or reasons – to “sell” his wife for cash or for repayment of a favour. Readers might remember reference to such in one of Thomas Hardy’s novels; but which one? Write in with your answer. The Sale of a Wife Thus in December 1832 Anne Vaughan of Dowlais was committed at the local assizes for “marrying” Thomas Wickley, her husband being John Vaughan and being still alive. Notice that she is the accused and as the local newspaper (Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian December 21 1832) headline read, accused of “Polygamy”, she having more than one partner. The paper immediately speculated, however, that the sale of a wife had taken place and whether it was a public transaction and therefore against the law. The following week’s account (December 28) reported Huw Williams Local Historian that John Vaughan, an engine tender of Dowlais (that would be hardly a railway locomotive driver but rather a stationary maintenance task), was to be charged with publicly selling his wife Anne Vaughan to Wickley. The sale had been effected, the report stated, in the latter’s house but behind closed doors. The sum paid for the transaction was 15 shillings and one penny (76 pence). Since it was not a public “sale” no sentence of the usual six months imprisonment could be levied but severe reprimands were issued to all parties. The men, it would, seem got off lightly; the woman probably remained tainted forever. More commonplace a practice, reported the previous month (Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian November 24 1832), was that of John Evans, a collier at the Plymouth Works of ironmasters the Hills at Pentrebach south of Merthyr Tydfil town centre, who had absconded, leaving his wife and children “chargeable to the parish of Merthyr Tydfil”. That is, they were a cost on the parish’s poor rate, relieved with payment in kind such as food and fuel especially during the winter months. He was away some six years working under another name, co-habiting with another women. He was apprehended a few miles from town at another colliery where he was earning 15 shillings (75 pence) a week. Cases of abandonment of wife and children by the head of household, again for whatever reasons, were fairly commonplace, especially in the straitened times of slack work, low wages or some personal or local crisis. Richard Jones at the beginning of 1833 was charged upon the oath of Abraham Jones with running away and leaving his wife and children chargeable to the parish and was given three months hard labour. Similarly in March of that year William Watkins formerly of the Dowlais Iron Works was committed to three months hard labour for non-maintenance of his bastard child; David Thomas, also absent from his workplace, was given one month hard labour for desertion from his wife and child, getting drunk and neglecting his work at Penydarren. Life for women and children in Merthyr Tydfil then was precarious, dangerous and often short. Enoch Davies, aged twelve, was killed at work at one of the Dowlais Iron Company’s nine pits when a large mass of stone fell on his head (Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian March 16 1833). Y Ceffyl Pren: the Wooden Horse In spring 1834 another rural, quasi-pagan custom and ritual gained local publicity in the newspaper columns when several men and women were fined 40 shillings (£2) and 20 shillings (£1) respectively “for an outrageous assault on Anne Harman”(Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian March 1 1834). She had been summoned from her workplace, forced upon a ladder and carried in a violent and tumultuous manner to “Pwllyweiad” (Duck’s Pool) and from where she was pelted with stones and mud as far as her mother’s house. The paper solemnly stated that the “justification was that she was an adulteress, and that such was their custom on such occasions.” The woman was four days in a succession of fits and so injured that she could not turn in her bed. Magistrates in passing sentence referred those arbitrary judges to the Scriptures, citing St. John, chapter 8, verse 7: that he who is without sin, let him throw the first stone! No more is heard of the case from that local source. Here was the time-honoured practice and ritual of “y ceffyl pren” the wooden horse, borrowed from the Welsh countryside and imported into industrial, urban Merthyr Tydfil as a means of dispensing local justice to those who had broken the commonly held moral code of practice in a given local community. Hiring fairs were common as part of a market place activity throughout the ages. The Waun Fair above Dowlais met up to four times a year and was for the trading of farm servants to work the seasons on up-country farmsteads as well as a mart for the exchange of animals, notably mountain ponies. These labourers were given board and lodge but a pittance of pay. Average wages of a Welsh farm labourer at mid 19th century was about £8 – that is, £8 a year!! Editors note: Have you got any history articles of Merthyr Tydfil you would like to share with readers. Contact us at: [email protected] Roman update As most of you know, I’ve kept going on and on about the Roman location for months. I suppose a lot of you will know by now that the location is Cyfarthfa Park. The Geo Survey didn't come up as good as we thought it would but it hasn't been written off by the Arceologist's at GGAT just yet. I’m still confident we have something here although I was hugely disappointed with the Geo Results. Anthony Thomas Local Historian Crawshay built his castle and his family lived here. when Roman pottery and other artefacts started appearing. He must have been sick to death of me going on about the Roman's for the past 2 years’. Also a mention to Stuart Sutton who found a Roman coin in one of the field's over 15 years ago which kept me metaldetecting in all weathers, although I still haven’t found I predict that within 2 years’ people will come from worldwide to visit Merthyr and it’s Cyfarthfa Park. One person I need to thank, who I haven’t yet, as it would have given the location away is Park Ranger Ian Everett-Woolston who I’ve been in contact with since the start of all this. What started out with me doing some metal detecting in certain areas for him and it then just snowballed one yet. I’m still out every weekend with Steve Davies rain or shine exploring every bit of the park and have come across a possible Lime Work’s, possible Medieval settlement, a well, a kiln, an old bridge crossing and possible medieval building remains’. The whole park has so much history other than when William GGAT Statement: Thank you to all our wonderful volunteers who participated in the Geophysical Survey at Cyfarthfa Park. We carried out the Geophysical Survey across fields adjacent to the potential Roman Road after a local resident Anthony Thomas came across a number of metal objects, Roman in date, whilst metal detecting. Along with Anthony, GGAT and Dr Tim Young of Geoarch, we conducted a five-day survey with local residents of Merthyr Tydfil and Cyfarthfa Primary School. We discovered a Post-medieval farm house and a number of features associated with the original landscaping conducted by William Crawshay of Cyfarthfa Ironworks. The speculative Roman structures proved difficult to identify, however we hope to do some further investigations, including trenching and excavations, in the summer with the community. Keep checking our posts for updates on the potential upcoming projects! Volunteers needed We are looking for volunteers to come and help us unearth a possible Medieval building and road that Anthony Thomas Local Historian are buried under a couple of feet of earth. If you are interested, please contact me by email me at [email protected] All the latest Merthyr Tydfil Crime figures Crime figures for each of the Electoral Wards in Merthyr Tydfil for January 2016. Bedlinog: 24 crimes reported. The crimes reported are broken down as follows: Anti Social Behaviour 6, Criminal Damage & Arson 6, Public Order 1, Vehicle Crime 2, Violence & Sexual Offences 9. Cyfarthfa: 72 crimes reported. The crimes reported are broken down as follows: Anti Social Behaviour 17, Burglary 4, Criminal Damage & Arson 9, Drugs 12, Other Crime 4, Other Theft 5, Public Order 5, Robbery 1, Shoplifting 1, Vehicle Crime 2, Violence & Sexual Offences 12. Merthyr Vale: 30 crimes reported. The crimes reported are broken down as follows: Anti Social Behaviour 2, Burglary 3, Criminal Damage & Arson 7, Possession of weapons 1, Drugs 3, Other crime 1, Other Theft 1, Public order 3, Vehicle Crime 1, Violence & Sexual Offences 8. TMTT Reporter Dowlais: 71 crimes reported. The crimes reported are broken down as follows: Anti Social Behaviour 14, Burglary 5, Criminal Damage & Arson 9, Other crime 3, Other Theft 12, Public Order 3, Shoplifting 4, Vehicle Crime 7, Violence & Sexual Offences 14. Park: 53 crimes reported. The crimes reported are broken down as follows: Anti Social Behaviour 12, Burglary 3, Criminal Damage & Arson 7, Other Theft 15, Public Order 3, Shoplifting 7, Vehicle Crime 1, Violence & Sexual Offences 5. Gurnos: 46 crimes reported. The crimes reported are broken down as follows: Anti Social Behaviour 14, Burglary 1, Criminal Damage & Arson 4, Other Theft 3, Public Order 2, Shoplifting 2, Vehicle Crime 3, Violence & Sexual Offences 17. Penydarren: 24 crimes reported. The crimes reported are broken down as follows: Anti Social Behaviour 6, Burglary 2, Drugs 1, Criminal Damage & Arson 5, Other theft 2, Shoplifting 1, Vehicle Crime 6, Violence & Sexual Offences 1. ALARM SYSTEMS, CCTV & SECURITY LIGHTING Plymouth: 35 crimes reported. The crimes reported are broken down as follows: Anti Social Behaviour 13, Burglary 4, Criminal Damage & Arson 4, Possession of weapons 1, Public order 1, Vehicle Crime 4, Violence & Sexual Offences 8. TEXECOM REGISTERED INSTALLER Telephone: 01685 388366 Mobile: 07508 840 885 Email: [email protected] YEARLY SERVICE / MAINTENANCE CONTRACTS AVAILABLE Town: 99 crimes reported. The crimes reported are broken down as follows: Anti Social Behaviour 31, Burglary 7, Criminal Damage & Arson 8, Drugs 1, Other crime 2, Other Theft 5, Public Order 4, Robbery 2, Shoplifting 13, Theft from the person 2, Vehicle Crime 3, Violence & Sexual Offences 21. follows: Anti Social Behaviour 6, Burglary 4, Other Crime 1, Other theft 3, Public Order 2, Vehicle Crime 2, Violence & Sexual Offences 4. Treharris: 22 crimes reported. The crimes reported are broken down as Vaynor: 25 crimes reported. The crimes reported are broken down as follows: Anti Social Behaviour 4, Burglary 2, Criminal Damage & Arson 4, Other Theft 1, Public order 3, Vehicle Crime 1, Violence & Sexual Offences 10. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v2.0 Our wordsearch this month has Everest as it's theme Mount Everest Name: Created with TheTeachersCorner.net Word Search Maker U C H L J M Y I N T Q M Q P T Z G W J B W F D I J W V B G S U C T O X S Y K J K W O V F R O S T B I T E H V C R F I L F I P F B A S E C A M P Y G W R N B V Z M J G X Y R T V X E O B U A C T E V S D C V N O T A E T I D Z W F R R I Q B E Q C X V J F T X S N F I Z I I F M E P M D O M Y P Z N P C T E C W R X S M C C L J N A M E D C E Y D G P R W A Y U J C Y X G L E O R U D G D R L A P D H S G X T E G O G I A Y L M R L A E K G Z I T D C Q T K F X E O Q L W A U T F E X A I W L H O V X Y G F U Q B N N O D S Z N H K S W D V X N Z N O K Y U T Z F E K R O M I F M Z X H D Z I C H I B N V T N A G E J Y K F O G O F R C E M I I F S C L Q F R C A O H G SUMMIT HILLARY A R Y Q I C D J F Q S O I V E A Y S N Y A L G R Q I A C Y F X A J Z Y G C E C W L Y Q V K O E L C L L T B D X T P X Y J P I E L W N Y F C V B J H R NEPAL WORDSEARCH ● There are 10 words hidden in the box that are related to Everest. You need to find them. Send your answers to : be entered into the draw. The draw will take place on 30th April Entries must be received before Midday on the 29th April. [email protected] or There are 5 copies of 14 Market Street Phil Howells latest book Dowlais to be won. http://worksheets.theteacherscorner.net/m Merthyr Tydfil CF48 3HL One entry per household. All correct entries willName __________________________ www.TheTeachersCorner.net P SUDOKU PUZZLE Sudoku Puzzle WE DARE YOU TO TRY THIS PUZZLE. Fill in the grid with digits in such a manner that every Fill in the grid with digits inrow, such every a manner that every every and every 3x3 box accom column androw, every 3x3column box accommodates V J Q 1-9, 1-9, without repeating any. any. the digits without repeating 9 3 1 5 9 7 8 7 1 4 6 4 3 5 9 2 1 4 8 2 3 8 7 4 9 8 1 4 Page 15 THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES “Once Upon a Time in Wales” and “This Time In Wales”....... Celebrated Merthyr photographer Robert Haines brings a brand new series of images to Redhouse, alongside an older series from the early 1970s. The older series of photographs is titled “Once Upon a Time in Wales” and captures some of the characters that help tell the story of 1970s Merthyr. In 2008 Haines’s publisher Dewi Lewis said of this work “for 35 years this extraordinary collection of photographs remained hidden from the world. Taken around 1971/1972, by 19 year old photographer Robert Haines, they record life in the Welsh valleys, in the village of Heolgerrig and nearby Merthyr Tydfil. Heolgerrig a very close-knit community with Welsh TMTT Reporter the first language. It was a mining community where most of the men worked underground and life seemed to revolve around the pub and the chapel. Merthyr Tydfil, once the ‘Iron Capital’ of the world, had a justifiable reputation as ‘tough’ with characters such as hard man, Melvin Webber, who died after being blasted by a shotgun, and ‘Mad’ Malcolm for whom no chemical substance was too strong”. Haines has returned to this work, compiling a brand new series to be shown alongside capturing some of the characters who continue the story of Merthyr Tydfil today, in a new series of work Merthyr helps the World entitled “This Time in Wales”. Haines explains “I am revisiting Merthyr Tydfil and the village of Heolgerrig to photograph its people. It will be a modern day update to my project Once Upon a Time in Wales. The project is supported by Arts Council Wales and the REDHOUSE Gallery in Merthyr Tydfil where the work will be exhibited from April to June 2016. “The incredible characters in my hometown Merthyr Tydfil and my home village of Heolgerrig. A unique place of ordinary yet extraordinary people." “Once Upon a Time in Wales” and “This Time In Wales” is showing at REDHOUSE from 2nd April until 28th June 2016. TMTT Reporter Colin Parker box will be on display at the Vaynor Show in August. Dr. Ganish seen here presenting the cheque to Shelter Box at its Great Britain & Island conference this weekend in April. Rotarian Dr. Ganesh presents a cheque for £100 to Shelter box ,who provide life supporting equipment, to areas of world disasters to help survival in tragic times. Hopefully a shelter Dowlais Male Choir announce competition date In 1978 Côr Meibion Dowlais decided to honour its founder Musical Director Mr. D.T.Davies - a musician highly respected throughout South Wales as a conductor, accompanist and an adjudicator - by instigating a Bursary in his memory. The aim of the D.T. Davies Young Musician Bursary Award is as an incentive to encourage promising young classical musicians to continue on their musical journey and achieve their am- TMTT Reporter bitions. Previous winners include Jeffrey Lloyd Roberts now singing with Opera North and due to appear in New York, and Susan Thomas, principal flautist with the London Symphony Orchestra. Others have gone on to teach or just continued to enjoy making their own music. Whatever they have chosen to do, the award showcases the young talent we have in the town. The 2015 winner was harpist Eve Price (photo attached), who at the age of 15 is already tasting success in her chosen career. A year 10 pupil at Ysgol Gyfun Rhydywaun and living in Aberfan, Eve performed in Dowlais Male Choir's 50th Anniversary Gala Performance alongside Jason Howard, and has more recently won a Young Musician's competition with the Rotary Club across Rhondda, Aberdare and Llantrisant, competing against opposition several years her senior. tition will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Merthyr Tydfil on Wednesday 13th CONGRATULATIONS however there will be a collection for the Mayors Appeal 2016 - Cancer Aid Merthyr and Welsh Air Ambulance. For the very first year we have added 'soloist' to the entry criteria and hope to hear some budding classical singers take to the stage. This year’s compe- April at 7pm. There are no tickets required The recipient of the bursary will receive a cheque, an engraved glass trophy and a chance to perform in one of the choir's concerts. Tony and Bette Wade 50th celebrated their wedding anniversary on March the 5th . Congratulations Alison, Elwyn and family. FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD...... by Gaynor Jones of TasteBuddiesWales Cooking with children Cooking is great fun and with the Easter holiday falling early this year it means two weeks with the children off school and the possibility of weather that may keep them indoors (probably more rain!). So what can you do to keep them amused? Cook of course. As a Home Economics teacher with over 25yrs in the classroom and now running Tastebuddies I teach children from 18 months upwards “hands on” cookery and I still love it. I have a passion for what I do and still get a thrill when I teach children new skills, see their excitement and enthusiasm for cooking even the most simple dishes. We all have FUN and that’s how learning should be for children. Cooking is not only about the cooking and eating (though these are important) but also about teaching the children a whole raft of other skills. Young children develop fine motor skills, great for hand eye coordination and following instructions. Listening and following written recipes will extend their language skills and it is so important to sit with the children, preferably at a table, at mealtimes to talk GLAMORGAN SAUSAGES (age 5-7) These are vegetarian cheese sausages lovely as snacks or served with baked beans or salad children and plan dishes within their attention span. Don’t be annoyed if they want to leave half way through. They may need a short break and then return to carry on. Having said that, I have found that Gaynor Jones TasteBuddies to them about the day and encourage good eating patterns. Cooking is full of opportunities to develop numeracy skills, counting, weighting, measuring are all part and parcel of each recipe. With the very little ones start to count out spoonfuls or portions of ingredients and with the older children get the weighing scale out. When children cook with you at home try to bear in mind some simple things • Don’t worry too much about the mess and get them involved in clearing up – it’s just as important as the cooking (this will certainly pay back when they are older and clear up after themselves!!) • Be patient, especially with the very little INGREDIENTS ½ leek or 2 spring onions chopped 1 teaspoon sunflower oil or rapeseed oil 1 large jacket potato cooked and cooled – easy in the microwave • • cooking is a task that can improve concentration for children as they are quite focused on the recipe. Don’t worry if things don’t quite turn out like the picture in the book – usually food is edible and the children will enjoy it!! Let the children do as much as they can themselves and don’t interfere too much – it is so easy to take over and not let them get involved All children like to make cakes and it is easy to just spend time with children 75g Caerphilly or cheddar cheese grated ½ teaspoon mixed dried herbs ½ teaspoon wholegrain mustard – optional 100g wholemeal breadcrumbs doing these but make an effort to cook savoury foods, we have too much sugar in our diet and sugar is a learnt and developed taste, use fruit to sweeten foods and limit the sugar they eat. Sugar is responsible for tooth decay and can contribute toward obesity. At Easter if they have had chocolate eggs then this is a good time to redress the balance a little and cook low sugar and non sweet items with them. Children need to learn basic cooking skills to improve their eating patterns later on in life and they are never too young to start. Cooking is a good way to introduce new foods and they may try foods they don’t normally like if they have been involved in making the dish. These recipes have suggested ages as a guideline but try them with all ages – Have fun !!! – approx 3 slices bread you can break them up with your fingers into small pieces or use a blender 1 egg METHOD Cook the leeks in HOT CROSS BUNS (age 7plus) Makes 4 small buns with water plus Golden syrup or honey for sticky glaze after cooking 4 tablespoons strong white or wholemeal bread flour 1 teaspoons mixed spice or cinnamon 1 teaspoon caster sugar 25g /1 dessertspoon margarine Handful mixed dried fruit or one grated apple (leave the skin on) 1 teaspoon easy add dried yeast Milk to mix 1 egg Plus Golden syrup or honey for sticky glaze after cooking – optional INGREDIENTS Crosses – make up this paste or just cut the crosses into the top of each bun 3 tablespoons flour mixed to a paste LEEK AND MUSHROOM CROUSTADES (age 3-5yrs) 1 teaspoon sunflower oil or rapeseed oil 1 leek cleaned and sliced – you can replace these with spring onions 100g mushrooms wiped clean and chopped 6 slices medium wholemeal bread 100g cheddar cheese 25 g butter or margarine METHOD Rub in the margarine to the flour with your fingers or use a knife to do this. Add the spice, sugar, dried fruit, yeast, and mix Add the egg and milk to make dough that you can handle. Turn 1 teaspoon sun- Fry the leeks and mushrooms until soft or put into a bowl and microwave for 3 mins until soft. Butter the slices of bread and cut out 2 circles with cutters from each slice of bread (keep the left over bread and freeze then use to make the next recipe Glamorgan sausages) Press the bread circles into the bun tins butter side down Fill with the leeks and mushrooms Sprinkle with the cheese and bake 10-15 mins until brown gas 6 /200C electric the oil until soft Scoop out the flesh of the potato into a mixing bowl and mash with a fork –(tip - keep the skins sprinkle with cheese and cook in to oven for crispy potato skins) Add the cheese, cooked leeks, mustard, herbs and half the breadcrumbs to the mash – mix well Shape into 6 sausage shapes or small rounds Beat the egg in a bowl Dip the sausages into the egg then into the remaining breadcrumbs to coat each one Bake on a baking tray 200C/gas 6 for 15 minutes until brown Individual savoury tarts made healthier by using wholemeal bread instead of pastry for the cases. Makes 12 small tarts using small bun tins – traditional fairy cake size not deep muffin trays and use any variation of fillings INGREDIENTS flower oil or rapeseed oil 1 leek cleaned and sliced – you can replace these with spring onions 100g mushrooms wiped clean and chopped 6 slices medium wholemeal bread 100g cheddar cheese 25 g butter or margarine onto a floured table and knead well for at least 10 minutes – don’t use too much flour on your table just lightly flour the table and your hands as the dough becomes more elastic it is easy to work with. Cut and shape into 4 rolls –put on a baking tray and cover with a cloth or cling film to rise for up to an hour to prove. Make up the flour paste put into a small plastic sandwich bag and cut off the corner to make a piping bag (or use a readymade bag if you have one) pipe the crosses on each bun Put into the oven gas 7 /220C for 1015mins until golden brown then brush over golden syrup or honey to make the sticky glaze – do this while the buns are still hot These are best eaten within a day but are great toasted. METHOD Page 17 THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES A walk down memory lane Campaign to End Pre-Pay Rip Off I seemed to spend entire summer holidays in the wishywashy Merthyr sunshine with my sister and our friends in the mis-shapen piano key allotments that ran the length of our terrace. This particular Narnia belonged to us alone. When we reached the crab-apple trees at the back of our family's allotment, tiny apple droplets littered the ground and made dull splashes into the rusty bath that sat squalid beneath the largest of the trees. The clack sludge of germ broth winked with every apple plop. The rusty corrugated sheets of metal that lay about made wonderful dinner tables, cave walls, stages and weapons. Earthy warm dampness, sweet mulched apples and wood lice surrounded us, and our fancies germinated a horde of memories. The back perimeter fence of the allotments was shared Bethan Coombs A readers memory with a derelict Victorian Hospital; most recently used as a nursing home for the elderly. Through a hole in the fence we often used the hospital as a shortcut to the nearest playground. Huge Fir and Oak trees lined the perimeter, providing useful cover for our forays onto the security patrolled private property. In it's stately grounds, Maerdy Hospital was a redbrick monster whose white timmed black eyes stared defiantly at us as we crept past. I was terrified to look at the windows as I was sure that previously I had seen a withered face look back at me. There was a strange building, it's doors hanging limply at their hinges and now holding only empty lager cans, used syringes and (more sinister) soiled baby nappies. Presiding over this stately abandonment was the "trucker man", the security guard and general caretaker of the building who drove a small truck, protecting Merthyr Council's investment until the time came when it would finally decide to demolish the old pile of misery. The truck was a cross between a motorised road sweeper and a large lawnmower, and gave off a distinctive mechanical whining: this always gave us a head start. The hospital would conceal us as we played hide and seek with the "trucker and we could seemingly evaporate into the labyrinthe consortium of outbuildings and alleyways before making a final dash through the hole in the fence that led to the playground, breathless more with fright tan with running - until, that is, the fateful day. Have you got any memories you would like to share with readers? email us at [email protected] MP’s met to call on the government and energy companies to clamp down on the cost of prepayment meters. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) have recommended a tariff cap, which is a partial win, however more needs to be done to ensure that the most vulnerable consumers in our communities are protected. The latest research by the Citizens Advice Bureau has revealed that pre-payment meter customers on average pay £226 a year extra for the cost of their energy compared to the cheapest direct debit tariff. With 1 in 5 prepayment meter users already in fuel poverty this amounts to an extra £2.3million a year being taken out of the pockets of the 10,347 Merthyr Tydfil & Rhymney households who can least afford it. Gerald Jones MP joined Dawn Butler MP and Nia Griffith MP and other MP’s from across Wales to launch the campaign calling to take action on the Big 6 energy companies. Gerald Jones MP said: “It is unacceptable that the poorest households in our communities are forced to pay the most for their energy bills when the cost of energy is falling but bills continue to rise. I will continue to call for real action in the en- ergy market to pass on the savings which thousands of families in my constituency deserve. This Pre- pay Rip Off must end now.” Dawn Butler MP said: “These meters are costing Welsh consumers and the local economies of our communities £62 million. It is about time someone stood up to the Big 6 energy companies on behalf of the most vulnerable energy consumers who have been left out of pocket. The cost of energy is at an all-time low yet prices keep going up. The Government need to take action to force energy companies to pass on these savings to consumers. If you support my campaign add your voice by signing the petition!” Nia Griffith MP, leading the Welsh PrePay Rip Off campaign said: “Nearly 300,000 Welsh homes have no choice but to use prepayment meters to pay their energy bills. This is money taken out of the pockets of those who can least afford it, and money that would otherwise be spent in the local economy on goods and services. I am calling on the energy companies to automatically give all Welsh consumers the best possible deal on their energy tariffs.” You can sign the petition online by going to http://chn. ge/1P83QSC ‘Singer / Songwriter Darren Promises to Soar’ Darren Parry, the Merthyr Tydfil based singer/songwriter is currently busy with not one, but two different songs of his that are currently on release. Darren wrote “Promises” for the talented teen Nina Jones and “Soar” for the gifted vocalist, Lee Gilbert. Darren is a multi-award winning singer/songwriter having won the 2004 ‘UK Songwriting Contest’ (for song “Reality”), been the 2014 USA ‘Song Of The Year’ awards runner up (“So Into You”) and has numerous other awards from ‘Billboard’, ‘Unisong’, and many others. He’s toured the world singing, shared the stage with household names and has appeared on many high profile BBC and ITV TV shows. “Promises” by Newport’s Nina Jones is her fourth single release. It is an infectious, contemporary Pop/R&B/Ballad song written and produced by Darren. Darren has been involved with two other songs for 18 yr. old Nina, including co-writing her debut single “Never Let You Go” that achieved much airplay across the UK (including BBC Radio Wales) and TV appearances and “Never Let You Go” (Adventurer Remix) a Dance/Club remix. “Promises” is a song about not trusting someone anymore, being tired of their lies, promises and deceit. It’s about being strong and moving on to better things. Many listeners will relate to this song as it embraces emotions that lots of us have encountered throughout our lifetime and will surely cement Nina's reputation as a rising star of the UK music scene. The music video for “Promises” is out now on Youtube to view! WATCH HERE: https://youtu.be/ gZEmgHkVzpk Darren also penned “Soar” for Rhondda’s talented vocalist Lee Gilbert. Darren wrote the song especially for Lee (and his powerful voice) after Lee approached Darren to write about his recent life circumstances. The song is a memorable, uplifting, Pop track that would not be out of place in today’s Top 40 Chart. It has overtones of R&B/Gospel/Soul also that really set it apart from your ‘typical’ modern Pop song. It is a song about bettering oneself, about rising from adversity, that has a message and a meaning for us all; never give up and follow your dreams! The song already has Welsh fans and the thumbs up from the likes of Lucie Jones (X Factor, Les Mis, Ghost The Musical) and fashion designer David Emanuel! Look out for the music video soon. LISTEN HERE: https://soundcloud. com/darrenparry/leegilbert-soar-1 getting over difficulties and soaring above negativity. It’s a song More info: www.darrenparry.com Page 18 THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES What's happening All the latest news from Aberfan Football Club Social Foot- to Sporting Marvels in Treharris in the the Merthyr Vale Ward.. Aberfan ball Club fixtures for FC. Please note there the month of April are mid week games are as follows; Sat- and these are Tuesmonth of April...... City Deal - The sign- days. for April - On Satur- urday 2nd Aberfan day 12th away to AFC Treharris Festival hold a fund raising social evening with a quiz and free buffet at the Navigation hotel on Wednesday 13 April and Wednesday 27 April. All procedes will go to the Childrens Christmas festivities The family of Julie Yoxall would like to thank family and friends for helping to raise over £1000 for macmillan nurses in memory of Julie treharris and Bedlinog branch labour party meet on Thursday 7 April at 7pm at the Dan y Graig Labour club. The Hydro Electric scheme on the millennium park is nearing completion. The turbine will shortly be installed and electricity should be produced and sold to the national grid by the end of april The Little bird holistic therapy is available at Treharris primary care centre where aroma- therapy and reflexology is available The unionist club in John Street hold a childrens disco at 6pm on Thursday nightThe people together club meet on Wednesday afternoon at 2pm at Treharris community centre if you require meals on wheels delivered in your area please contact 07743348456 The weekly knitting and crochet club meet at cilhaul community hut on Tuesday evening at 7pm Hafal carers transport service is a free transport service provided for carers of individuals with a mental illness who are in patients at the Royal Glamorgan hospital or Ysbyty George Thomas Treorchy. For more information please contact Brian Robinson on 01685 373322 ing of the City Deal in Cardiff a few weeks ago is good news for Merthyr Tydfil as this will mean the proposed Metro Transport System will be bringing easier travel to everyone living within the borough. There are a few copies of the proposed Metro System available from the Library at Aberfan Community Centre which is open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fri- Entertainment during April at Aberfan Social Club is as follows - Saturday 2nd - Nigel Dee;Sunday 3rd - Terry J; Saturday 9th - Musicola; Sunday 10th Sarah Lou; Saturday 16th - J Denion; Sunday 17th - Rhod Lewis; Saturday 23rd - Richie Collins; Sunday 24th - Amelia Rose; Saturday 30th - Jeff Hooper. Rugby Club Fixtures day 2nd Ynysowen "Sharks" are at home to Cambrian Welfare and the Youth team are at home to Abercwmboi. On Saturday 9th the "Sharks" are away to Fairwater and the "Dynamos" are at home to Wattstown 2nds.On Saturday 16th the "Dynamos" are away to Bedlinog 2nds and the the Youth Team are at home to Abercynon. Social FC are home to Canton Liberal FC, On Saturday 9th they are away to Ton/Gelli BC, On Saturday 16th they are home Whitchuch, Wednesday 20th away to AFC Bargoed, Tuesday 26th home to Penrhiwceiber Cons. CARAVAN FOR SALE 2 Berth - 2003 model - CR15 Reg Large end washroom - Fully alarmed Full cooker & fridge - Alloy wheels Immaculate condition - Private sale £3,995 ONO Telephone: 07449 448349 07482 047135 The Sally Army is on the march with a busy schedule The Salvation Army in Merthyr Tydfil has a busy weekly shedule at the Corps: Monday 12noon to 2.00pm Merthyr Cynon foodbank. 2.00pm to 3.00pm Good Companions( Fellowship group for over 50's) 4.00pm to 5.30 pm Safer Merthyr community choir. Tuesday 9.30am to 11.30am Little Gems( carer and toddler group ) term time. 7.00pm to 8.00pm Songsters choir practice Merthyr Tydfil Public Libraries BOOK GROUPS Are you looking for a relaxed and friendly book group? Then the library book clubs could be perfect for you. We meet monthly and new members are always welcome! Aberfan Library: Monday 11 11.30am - 12.30pm Dowlais Book Club: Tuesday 12 4.30pm - 5.30pm Dowlais Loose Women: Monday 18 6.00pm - 7.00pm Treharris Book Club: Wednesday 27 5.00pm - 6.00pm Central New Chapters: Wednesday 13 2.00pm - 3.00pm HOP-A-LONG TO YOUR LIBRARY! Pop along to your library for Easter crafts, stories and fun! Dowlais Library: Tuesday 5 2.30 - 3.30pm Central Library: Wednesday 6 2.00pm - 3.30pm Treharris Library: Wednesday 6 10.30am - 11.30am Aberfan Library: Wednesday 6 10.00am - 11.00am MARCH 14 - APRIL 8 Water Colour Exhibition Come along to Dowlais Library to view local artist Ken Morgan’s Water Colour views of Merthyr Tydfil. ART GROUP Dowlais Library: Every Tuesday 3.45pm - 5.45pm For further information contact: 01685 725217 LEARN DIRECT COMPUTING COURSES Dowlais Library: Every Monday 2.00pm - 4.00pm For further information contact: 01685 725217 8.00pm to 9.30pm Band practice. Wednesday 9.30 to 11.00am Cafe Cwtch( support group for families of children with additional needs) 4.00pm to 5.30pm JAM Club( Jesus and Me midweek Sunday school)term time. 7.00pm to Adult Dro-in 9.00pm Thursday 9.30am to 11.30am Little gems( carer and toddler group ) term time. 2.00pm to 3.00pm Brass instrument leaners group 7.00pm to 9.00pm Prayer Sanctuary Friday 10.00am to 11.30am "Fired up " Bible study. 5.45pm to 6.45pm Activ8( Youth club for 5 to 11year olds) term time Sunday 10.15am Sunday Service 10.30am Sunday School. 6.00pm Evening Worship. For further information contact officers Nigel or Lynne Collins on 01685 722232 Merthyr Tydfil Public Libraries ‘APPY HOUR IT DROP-IN SESSIONS DOWLAIS LIBRARY: MONDAY - FRIDAY 11.00AM - 12.00PM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 01685 725217 BRINGING BOOKS TO LIFE Every Monday 9.30am - 10.30am Toddlers Every Wednesday 3.30pm - 4.30pm 5-6 year olds A joint project between Merthyr Tydfil Public Libraries and Active Merthyr. Stories, games and physical activities for children . FREE sessions for 10 weeks! Please contact Merthyr Libraries for further information. 01685 353480 TI A FI Bi-lingual Story & Rhyme Sessions! All Welcome Dowlais Library: *Every Monday 10.00am - 11.00am Central Library: *Every Tuesday 10.00am - 11.00am For further information contact Vicky: 07483149550 *Term time only CUPPA WITH A COPPER If you have any concerns about the area where you are living or have any queries you would like answered, please come along and meet your local PCSOs / Police. Aberfan Library - Friday 11 1.00pm Aberfan Library - Wednesday 16 3.00pm Aberfan Library - Monday 21 1.00pm Dowlais Library - Every Friday 4.00pm - 5.00pm Page 19 THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES Puppies and Kittens Puppy/Kitten article I don't know whether it's the time of year, or coincidence, but lots of my friends have been getting new puppies and kittens in the last few weeks. Since I keep getting asked for advice, I thought it might be useful to pass on this advice to everyone. Choosing what type and breed of animal to get before they even arrive is very important. Consider the size and personality of the breed you might like. Be realistic about the amount of exercise you can give a dog each day. It's not fair to buy a collie that you like the look of if you can't give them the hours of exercise and entertainment that they need each week. The same is true of cats; some breeds are far more laid back than others, while some like to pla y and interact with people and get lonely if they don't have enough attention. Always go and see your puppy or kitten at the breeders. However kind or friendly they sound, don't let the vendor bring the puppy to you; this is a trick frequently used by puppy farmers to prevent people seeing the squalid conditions in which the animals are kept. In order to make good pets, puppies and kittens need to socialise with people. This means lots of contact when they're young this is best achieved when animals are raised in the house. A lot of the animal's personality depends on its parents, so make sure to check that Mum (and if possible Dad) is a pleasant friendly animal. If the parent is at all aggres- Rachel Thomas Ash Vets sive or very nervous, avoid that puppy or kitten. If you have a choice, pick a friendly puppy or kitten who comes to see you. Don't choose the most boisterous one or the timid one hiding at the back. Puppies and kittens should have a veterinary examination within a day or two of collection to ensure that they're fit and healthy and so you can pick up any problems early. Vaccinations can start from 6 weeks old for puppies and 9 weeks old for kittens, so you might be able to combine these with your first visit. They'll need two vaccinations before they can go out, so don't expect to take your puppy for walks straight away. Puppies and kittens should be wormed every 2 weeks from birth until 12 weeks and then every month until they're 6 months old, as even the bestcared-for will have some worms from their mum in the womb or in their milk. They should be flea treated each month. Pet shop and supermarket wormers and flea treatments aren't as effective as pre- scription ones from your vet - there really is a difference. Ask your breeder what they were treated with and when at the time you collect them. It's also worth checking which food they've been having and asking for some to take home so you don't suddenly change their diet along with all the other shocks of being in a new house. Then you can switch to your preferred food gradually over a week or so. They should be fed a good quality complete dry food. I recommend Hills, Royal Canin or Eukanuba. Pets should be insured as soon as you get them - in case of accidents, illnesses or emergencies - with a lifetime cover policy. We give 4 we eks free insurance with their first vaccinations to ensure they're covered. And make sure you get them microchipped in case they get lost - remember that after 6th April this year, all puppies must be chipped by law before being sold. Spaying and castration should be done between 4 and 5 months old, so you've got plenty of time to get them settled before the operation. If you have questions about your puppy or kitten then please ask your vet. It's a big responsibility looking after a pet, but also one of the most rewarding things you'll ever decide to do. Is there something you'd like to read about? Email press@ ashvets.co.uk with your questions. We check this every so often, but not immediately, so please don't send urgent medical questions this way. These Road Signs could be deadly Sir, Could I bring to your notice a new sickness that could easily lead to death. It is the draping of bridges and railings with signs bearing various congratulatory messages. Mervyn Saunders Their fixing is so flimsy that they eventually blow down into the windscreens of oncoming traffic. As a daily user of the A470 and various roads around the borough, I have witnessed some near tragic incidents. I enclose a cartoon of a typical morning scene. Do you like singing? Ynysowen Male Choir, Aberfan and district are looking for new members. In two years time, the choir will be celebrating their 50th Anniversary and are preparing for a busy concert year. You don't have to be a Pavarotti as long as Ray Jones P.R.O. Ynysowen Male Choir you like singing. You will soon learn how to sing in tune and our Musical Director will help you on your way. The Choristors are a friendly bunch of guys and will give you a warm welcome. Choir practice nights are on a Monday and Wednesday evenings between 7pm and 9pm at the Old Library, Bridge Street, Aberfan. We look forward to seeing you. FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS Our Loved Ones Never Forgotten Memories JOHN DRUCE 27.02.1943 - 26.12.2015 Memories TREFOR GEORGE DAVIES 20/06/1943 - 12/02/2016 DANIELLE PUGH 12/2/82 - 12/4/15 For our beautiful Daughter We wish that we could see you Danielle For just a little while We wish that we could hug you and see your lovely smile but wishing gets us nowhere and longing is in vain So we will hold you in our hearts until we meet again Love always Mam & Dad xxxx Beloved husband of Maureen, loving father to daughters Cathryn & Julie, Jenny and the late Damian Martin, and a true friend of Dylan his chocolate brown labrador. DANIELLE PUGH A loving brother and dearest friend of Margaret, Derek, and Frankie. A much loved uncle of Marcus, Rhian, Alex, John, Gayle and his great nephews and nieces. Passed away peacefully, December 26th 2015. Ysbyty Cwm Cynon. 12/2/82 - 12/4/15 Heartfelt thanks to the Catholic Church, Canon Barry English and Rev Garth Tasker for their support and tender prayers for John and the family and the services in the hospital, home and church. In addition, the undertaker, Mr Robert Protheroe. FOR OUR BEAUTIFUL MAM If Roses grow in Heaven Lord Then pick a bunch for us and place them in Mammy's arms and tell her they're from us Mam, your photo stands in pride - place A lovely smile lights up your face You always seem to be so near How we wish Mammy you were still here with us Lots of Love Tia & Nia xxxx Extended thanks to Prince Charles Hospital, A&E, Ward II and Ysbyty Cwm Cynon wards for the excellent care delivered. Maureen & Girls wish to thank the family, friends & neighbours for their supportive care and transport links to the hospitals at a very difficuly time. In addition their loving messages and support during this bereavement. DANIELLE PUGH A total sum of £600 was gratefully collected from church donations for nominated charities. 12/2/82 - 12/4/15 My Sister Danielle No matter where I go No matter what I do I cherish the memories of yesterday and the laughs I shared with you Lots of Love Darren who thought the world of you xxx VANESSA PHILLIPS PASSED AWAY ON TUESDAY 8TH MARCH 2016. AGED 52 YEARS. Trefor passed away peacefully at home with his family at his side, after a long and courageous battle against cancer. Trefor was a very brave and inspirational man who fought cancer without complaining and amazed everyone he met with his positive attitude to his battle with cancer. Trefor will be missed by many in the village for his extensive knowledge and love of music, especially rock n roll from the 50's and 60's which during those years he was able to attend many concerts and meet many great artists such as Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee, Lewis, John Lennon and Mick Jagger to name but a few. Trefor's wife Joan and family would like to thank family and friends for attending the funeral and crematorium. Too many to mention. Also many thanks for the sympathy cards, flowers and messages of condolences. A big thank you to Pastor A Pitt for his uplifting and fitting eulogy. Joan and family send their appreciation for the donations received in lieu of flowers which will be passed on for research into cancer. John and family would like to send heartfelt thanks to Trefor's friends who visited him regularly in his last few months, keeping him up to date with events happening in the village. Trefor looked forward to and enjoyed your visits. Trefor has left a huge void in the lives of his wife joan, daughter Cheryl, Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren who are devestated at his passing. He will be missed every day and Joan and the families lives will never be the same. You will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace. xxxx DANIELLE PUGH 12/2/82 - 12/4/15 Danielle, although we're not together We will never be apart because you have that special place Right here within my heart Love always, Paul xxx DANIELLE PUGH 12/2/82 - 12/4/15 Put your arms around her Lord Kiss her smiling face She was a special Grandaughter who can never be replaced Love and miss you Nanny Myra - Nanny Pugh xxx & Family Sadly missed by her family and all those that met her. You will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace. xxxx Mobile: 07949306344 / 07949306777 Email: [email protected] Website: www.cariadmemorials.co.uk • New Grave Tending Service Showroom at Creative House, Rocky Road, Penydarren 01685 383051 07450 969325 [email protected] Page 21 THE MERTHYR TYDFIL TIMES Robert Parker says "Thank You" Robert Parker would like to say" thank you" to all the owners of Merthyr Town F.C. who voted for him in his successful bid to join the board. He promises to give an open and transparent commitment to the club and its new fantastic facilities which are now available for everyone in our community." Use it or Lose it "Up the Martyrs" Merthyr indoor bowls The final of the Citroen League, sponsored by Thomas & Davies took place on Friday, 18th March, 2016 at the Merthyr Indoor Bowling Club. It is a season long league, culminating in the top four playing a knockout competition, The eventual winners were Mid Borough who have tried for numerous years and finally winning this competition for the first time, the beaten finalists were North Borough. Mid Boro' team Mr. Peter Brill presenting the trophy to Wilf Thomas team captain on behalf of Sharon and Danny Horrigan ,with Gary Nicholls, league co ordinator. CONGRATULATIONS Atalanta Memories Treharris bowls club recruiting Phil Howells Newly-appointed comunications officer Matthew Davies has made a film highlighting Merthyr's European Cup Winners' Cup games with Atalanta in 1987. It will get its first showing at the new Romans function room at the ground. The Martyrs Of 87 will be launched on April 22 at 8pm when it is hoped that many of the players from that time will be present. Admission will be £5 per ticket but owing to the demand, there will be further screenings. Matthew, from Aberdare, but now living in Cardiff, has spent months interviewing and filming players and others from that exciting and historic era to compile the film which later will be available on DVD. On April 7 the club hold their annual meeting at The Romans Room at the stadium at 7.30pm. We are keen to recruit new members of all ages and all are welcome to attend our A.G.M. on April 3rd at the John Street Club Treharris at 12.00 noon. Coaching and equipment will be provided where needed and no experience is necessary. Other contacts can be made with:Colin Case 01443 410633, Malcolm Bell 01443 412782, Derek Naldrett 01443 453474 or Brent Lewis 01443 410814. Pictures by Peter Harman of recent action at Merthyr Town Football Club. Prize fighting in the Dowlais area At Merthyr Police Court, Saturday, before Justices Mr. Bishop and Dr. Probert, were the following men, John McGrath, Michael Griffiths, John Mansell and John O Neill, who had been summoned for causing a breach of the piece on the previous Sunday. The first named defendant only answered, but Mansell afterwards made his appearance in court. In reference to the charge against McGrath, Inspector Rodman stated that on the previous Sunday, there was great excitement in Dow- Peter Rogers lais about a prize fight that was about to take place. On making inquiries, he heard that John McGrath and Griffiths had fought seven rounds, and they then gave up in consequence of a report that the police were coming. It was rumoured another fight was about to take place, and witness afterwards found a crowd of 500 people assembled on the old tram road above Mr Simons' house, between the old limekiln and the Goitre pond. Witness and the officers who were with him were seen approaching, and a stampede took place. In their anxiety to get away, the people tumbled over each other. Witness ran until he was out of breadth, but did not catch anybody. Supt Thomas added that the report was that they were to fight it over again last Sunday. When we got to the spot, two other men were stripped. He heard it was a prize fight and he had reason to believe it would be renewed unless a stop was put to it. McGrath said he was not out in the field at all but had no intention of renewing any more fights. He promised the magistrates this. The Inspector said that on Sunday morning last, in consequence of the excited state of the neighbourhood, he went to the spot near the Goitre. "Mansell and another man were stripped ready to fight". Someone shouted out "Rodman is coming" and the crown took to their heels. The Defendant: "I know nothing about the fight" The Magistrate called attention to the fact that the defendant still had a black eye from some cause. The Defendant: nodded towards the Inspector and said "You gave me that. You hit me by Davies' the confectioners" The Inspector denied all knowledge of this. The defendants were bound over in the sum of £10 each and told to keep the peace for 12 months. I am looking for any information on any of the above named boxers. Please contact me at: [email protected] Finalists of this Years Merthyr Tydfil Bowling Leagues,Knockout Cup Winners Merthyr West End "A" Narrowly beaten finalists Thomastown Bowling Club MERTHYR TOWN FC Another year, more silvervare for the cabinet? MERTHYR Town have a firm grip on a Cup they haven't won since 1951. Only a major shock on Wednesday April 6 at Cambridge City will prevent The Martyrs from lifting The Red Insure Cup (League Cup) after the second leg of the Final. They made a great start with a 5-1 triumph on March 22 at The Miller Argent Community Stadium.Merthyr also won the Cup in 1948.This season the club didn't plan entering the competition but missed the date for withdrawal,. Interest in the Cup, which offers £3,500 for the victors,grew at Merthyr as they neared the final when normally such Cup games attract only small gates. Merthyr boss Steve Jenkins said that consolidatiion this sea- Phil Howells son in the Evo-Stik ~Southern League Premier Division, after promotion last year, and winnng some silverware would be a good achievement. The first encounter with Cambridge saw the visitors arrive late after a blaze on The Heads of The Valleys Road, the kick-off being delayed for 19 minutes. Merthyr started brightly but City defended well, especially on their left. Ryan Prosser broke the deadlock on 17 minutes to give Merthyr the lead. Strangely, Merthyr lost their zest at the start of the second half. However, they couldn't do anything about City's 46th minute equalliser as Buster Harradine lashed an unstoppable shot past goalkeeper Cameron Clarke, in for cup-tied Glyn Garner. Cambridge exerted some pressure but Merthyr seized the advantage again as they ripped City apart. It was 2-1 courtesy from Prosser after 59 minutes.Chris Hugh, on 71 minute as a substitute, made it 3-1 after showing determination near goal. Ian Traylor beat 'keeper Zac Barrett a minute later for the fourth goal. Clarke made a good save when a City goal may have given them hope but these were definitely dashed in stoppage time when the bearded Prosser completed his hat-trick. Four days earlier City were also at Merthyr- in the league- and with both sides still possibly in danger of relegation, points were important. It was a 2-1 win for The Martyrs. Keyon Reffell, ex- Kidderminster, gave Merthyr the first goal on 37 minutes when the ball came off him after a defender tried to clear. Ieuan Lewis levelled in the 46th minute with Kayne McLaggon making it 2-1 to Town in the 58th minute. It might have been a bigger win against an injury-hit City side who were able to field a stronger line-up for the Cup clash but ironically played better football despite the 5-1 loss. Before the league match, Jenkins revealed that he had set a points target for his side this season. He didn't state the figure but said at the time they were nowhere near it. Considering that the re-formed club were only six years old, it had been a good achievement by all at the club - the players, board, fans and those working behind the scenes. "It's been an enjoyable season . We have had difficult times in certain phases . We have put together some good results but there have been some tough games where we found things difficult but in general I am quite pleased with how things have gone." He added that after promotion, they had lost seven or eight players so it was a case of re-building the side, as well as the work going on at the stadium. Phil Howells ning onto a free-kick. Adam Davies, Ian Traylor, Corey Jenkins and Ashley Evans combined for substitute, defender James Bloom to driive into the corner of the net near the end. Merthyr began March with a fine 2-1 home win over, at the time, title-chasing Chippenham. Ian Traylor made it 1-0 with Ryan Prosser ensuring maximum points on 90 plus three minutes. The next game was tough as Merthyr lost 2-0 at home to on-form Leamington but goals from Gethin Jones and Kayne McLaggon gave Merthyr a 2-1 win at Bedworth after being a goal down. Aug 12 Frome Town a D 1-1 Aug 15 Kettering Town a L 3-2 Aug 18 Stratford Town h W 3-0 Aug 22 Poole Town a D 2-2 Aug 29 Hitchin h W 5-1 Aug 31 Cirencester a L 1-0 Sept 5 Chesham h L 1-2 Sept 19 Chippenham a L 1-0 Sept 22 Paulton h D 1-1 Sept 29 Dorchester a D 1-1 Oct 3 Biggleswade h L 0-1 Oct 10 Leamingrton a L 1-0 Oct 17 Dunstable h L 1-3 Oct 20 Paulton a W 1-2 Oct 24, St Neots a W 1-2 Oct 27 Hungerford h W 4-1 Nov 7 Weymouth h L 1-3 Nov 10 Yate Town a L 3-1 Nov 14 Hastings a A-A Nov 17 Hastings a 1-2 Nov 21 Kettering h 1-1 Nov 28 East Thurrock a 1-1 Dec 8 Bedworth h D 2-2 Dec 12 Cambridge City a L 1-0 Dec 15 Slough Town a L 3-1 Dec 19 Hitchin Town a L 2-0 Dec 26 Cirencester Town h L 0-1 Jan 2 Redditch a L 3-1 Jan 5 King’s Lynn a W 2-3 Jan 9 Histon h W 3-0 Jan 23 Poole Town h D 1-1 Jan 30 Biggleswade a W 0-3 Feb 9 Frome h D 1-1 Feb 20 Dorchester h L 2-4 Feb 23 Stratford Town a W 0-3 Picture by Peter Harman. Richards Garage MOT TESTS & VEHICLE REPAIRS Aug 8 King’s Lynn h W 2-0 Dec 1 East Thurrock a L 3-1 Histon 0 Merthyr Town 2 Histon 0 Merthyr Town 2 Merthyr contributed to relegation-threatened Histon's plight on March 26 with a win in difficult weather conditions.The Cambridge-based side had plenty of the play but with little to show for it and rarely troubling Glyn Garner in goals. Keyon Reffell scored for Merfthyr on 72 minutes after run- MERTHYR TOWN FC YOUR CUT OUT & KEEP FIXTURE LIST Bryniau Road, Pant Merthyr Tydfil. CF48 2SR Tel: 01685 267 450 Mobile: 07423 055 466 richard edwards mot Feb 27 Dunstable a L 2-1 March 5 Leamington h L 0-2 Mar 12, Bedworth a W 1-2 Mar 19 Cambridge City h W 2-1 Mar 26 Histon a L 2-0 Mar 28 Reddiitch h W 2-1 April 2 Hungerford a L 1-0 Apr 9 St Neots h Apr 16 Weymouth a