Rhiwbina Living Issue 51

News | People | Features | History | Lifestyle | Interiors 

Rhiwbina Living 

At the heart of the community 

Issue 51 Winter 20/21 

Your multi award-winning magazine for Rhiwbina

a: 222 Pantbach Road, 

Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 6AG 

t: 07772 081775 / 07974 022920 

w: www.livingmags.co.uk 

e: editor@livingmags.co.uk or 

danielle@livingmags.co.uk 

Distribution: 6,000 copies of Rhiwbina Living are 

personally delivered by us to every house in the 

Rhiwbina ward four times a year in line with the 

seasons. We also distribute to local shops 

2 

Inside this issue 

Matt Callanan 

talks about his 

acts of kindness 

that have gone 

on to bring 

smiles to people 

across the world 

Lockdown Walks 

Making the most 

of our local 

beauty spots to 

see us through the 

Winter 

Winter Gardens 

How to turn your 

outdoor space 

into a place 

where friends 

and family can 

bubble together 

The Joy of Giving 

Discover your 

creative side and 

explore ways to 

make homemade 

gifts for loved 

ones this year 

Spring deadline: 

1st March 2021 

Published mid March 2021 

While every effort has been made to 

ensure the accuracy of the contents, 

the publisher cannot accept any 

responsibility for errors or omissions, 

or for any matter in any way arising 

from the publication of this material. 

Every effort has been made to 

contact any copyright holders. 

Rhiwbina Living is an independent, 

apolitical publication. No part of this 

publication may be reproduced 

without the express written 

permission of the publishers. 

Welcome / Croeso 

The excitement of the Winter 

season is upon us, although we 

may be experiencing it a little 

differently this year. 

One could be forgiven for the 

mixed emotions as we come 

to the end of 2020, but if this 

year has taught us anything, 

it's that acts of kindness really 

do make a big difference to our 

lives. To honour that message, 

we've given this issue the twin 

themes of kindness and hope. 

While we may not have got 

what we wanted in 2020, it is 

perhaps a time to be grateful for 

the things that we already have. 

Matt Callanan is a man who 

is very much acquainted with 

kindness. In fact, his acts 

of kindness started a quiet 

revolution in the city of Cardiff 

that's gone on to become 

recognised worldwide. Matt talks 

to us about that project, and 

others that have helped spread 

a little bit of happiness. 

Winter is often a season that 

people don't look forward 

to and that's often because 

we associate it with the cold 

weather and the need to 

stay indoors. We've taken a 

look at the ways in which our 

Scandinavian cousins deal with 

their long Winters and offer 

tips on how we can shift our 

perspective so that we can do 

the same. 

Using our outdoor spaces is 

one way in which we can adapt 

and we have some useful ideas 

that can help transform your 

garden into an outdoor space 

that can be used all year round. 

Our local beauty spots also 

offer a chance to embrace 

Winter positively and we've put 

together a feature to highlight 

some of the wonderful places to 

visit. 

Loneliness has been a big 

factor in many of our lives this 

year and as Winter approaches, 

we show you how you can keep 

it at bay until we are in a position 

where we can meet friends and 

family once more. 

When it comes to Christmas, 

the joy is always in the giving 

so we've featured some 

homemade gifts that you can 

create and which are almost 

guaranteed to bring a smile to 

the faces of your loved ones. 

Winter is a time to spend 

making warming meals in the 

kitchen and our recipes page 

has some great ideas to feed the 

family. 

We also hear from local 

children about how their lives 

have been transformed in the 

last year - and what they look 

forward to in 2021. 

Our history feature this issue 

takes a look at some of the 

medieval sites that pepper our 

local community. From ancient 

hillforts to bishop's palaces, our 

villages and outlying countryside 

are packed with fascinating 

histories. Worth exploring if you 

are able to get out and about 

this Winter. 

And if like us, you're already 

looking ahead, we show you 

how you can plan for a better 

year ahead in 2021 - even when 

unexpected events pop up. 

To sign off this issue, we've got 

a heartening short Christmas 

story to remind us of the 

wonderful communities in which 

we live. 2020 has reminded us 

that even if we are isolating at 

home, that there is hope outside 

our front doors and within our 

neighbourhoods. 

We do hope that you have a 

safe and happy Winter. We also 

look forward to a new year when 

perhaps we can look to getting 

back to some sort of normality. 

Please support our local 

businesses at this time of year. 

Have a great Christmas and a 

wonderful New Year. 

See you in the Spring! 

Danielle and Patric 

Editors 

@RhiwbinaLiving 

www.facebook.com/rhiwbinaliving

Annual Scout Post 2020 cancelled 

due to coronavirus concerns 

news 

Poppies make 

roadside 

appearance 

The annual Scout Christmas post 

scheme which operates throughout 

Cardiff and parts of the Vale of 

Glamorgan has been cancelled for 

2020. 

The scheme usually gives residents 

the opportunity to send Christmas 

cards for less than they normally 

would using postal services. The 

scheme, which has been running for 

the last 35 years, was cancelled in 

October. Around half a million cards 

are traditionally sorted and delivered 

by Scout volunteers, but leaders 

say that the coronavirus restrictions 

render the scheme unworkable this 

year. 

Area commissioner for Cardiff and 

Vale Scouts, Julian Jordan said: 

“We have concerns for our scout 

groups and volunteers being 

able to sort and deliver in a safe 

environment so have made the 

decision not to run the scheme this 

year. 

"Scout Post brings in around £150k 

each year to support Scouting in our 

52 groups with 5,000 members. 

"This needed income helps to run 

our adventurous programme and 

the upkeep of our buildings and 

transport. 

"With Scout Post not taking place 

this year, we are calling on the 

public to help us with fundraising so 

that our groups are able to continue 

to carry out the excellent work that 

they do. 

"We are calling on the public who 

would normally purchase stamps 

to make a donation where possible 

to help us keep going during these 

uncertain times. 

"On behalf of Cardiff and Vale 

Scouts, we would like to thank all 

those that have supported Scout 

Post over the years and to make it 

the success it is." 

You can make a donation at 

www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/ 

Scoutpost where you can also 

specify a group for your donation to 

be allocated to. 

Rhiwbina Festival 2020 is alternative 

Christmas might not be the same 

this year but it hasn't been cancelled 

just yet. 

Rhiwbina can still enjoy a 

community feel, as the Alternative 

Rhiwbina Christmas Festival takes 

place instead of the traditional 

festive get-together. The volunteers 

at the Rhiwbina Events Team are 

running a programme of events 

until 20th December, including a 

competition to find the Best Dressed 

Christmas Shop Window, a Seasonal 

Quiz, plus Festive Carols live on 

Facebook with Niall Allen from Only 

Men Aloud. 

You can find details of all the latest 

events at www.facebook.com/pg/ 

OneRhiwbina. 

The traditional events 

are on hold this year 

Symbols of poppies have been 

painted on roads in North 

Cardiff as a mark of respect to 

servicemen and woman who 

have given the ultimate sacrifice 

for their country. 

The markings form part of 

a city-wide project in eleven 

locations across Cardiff for 

Remembrance Day and beyond. 

The markings feature a red 

poppy, with the bilingual caption 

‘Lest We Forget’ underneath it. 

Leader of the Council, Cllr Huw 

Thomas said: 

“This year, due the ongoing 

pandemic and the restrictions on 

gatherings of people, there were 

a limited number of parades 

for people to visit and lay their 

wreaths and pay their respects." 

Due to coronavirus regulations, 

which place restrictions on 

outdoor public gatherings, 

general access to the National 

War Memorial and the 

surrounding Alexandra Gardens 

was not possible this year. 

Arrangements were made for 

participants to watch an online 

service instead. 

Reservoir plans 

submitted 

Plans to reopen Llanishen and 

Lisvane reservoirs with a new 

watersports centre and café have 

now been submitted to Cardiff 

Council. Welsh Water outlined its 

plans for the reservoirs and has 

now submitted a formal planning 

application. 

The proposals include a new 

visitor hub with a watersports 

centre and restaurant, circular 

paths and recreation, learning 

and conservation zones. 

3

news 

Green Flag Award 

winners revealed 

4 

A number of North Cardiff parks 

and green spaces, including 

Rhiwbina's Canolfan Beulah Garden 

and nearby Parc Cefn Onn, have 

been awarded the prestigious 

Green Flag Award and Green Flag 

Community Award. 

First-time winners include Forest 

Farm and Hailey Park, as well as 

Whitchurch Community Garden. 

Now in its third decade, the 

international Green Flag Award is 

a sign to the public that a park or 

green space boasts the highest 

possible environmental standards, 

is beautifully maintained and has 

excellent visitor facilities. 

Deputy Minister for Housing and 

Local Government, Hannah Blythyn 

said: 

"Green spaces are vital for mental 

and physical well-being and 

throughout the pandemic, we have 

seen how important these spaces 

have been for local communities. 

Wales still holds more than a third 

of the UK’s Green Flag community 

sites and it is fantastic to see 

more places in Wales receiving 

Green Flag Awards and Green 

Flag Community Awards. These 

landscapes play a vital role in 

delivering rich ecosystems and 

vibrant and resilient communities, 

and I congratulate all of the sites 

for providing excellent, year-round 

facilities for people in Wales." 

Police warn of 

thefts on Taff Trail 

Cyclists along the Taff Trail are 

being warned against a manand-boy 

team who are stealing 

bicycles. 

The pair have been reported as 

distracting cyclists with apparent 

'problems' and stealing the bikes 

while the owners are distracted. 

Anyone with information can 

contact the police on 101 or 

Crimestoppers anonymously 

quoting ref: *352733. 

Community pantomime postponed 

until 2021 - oh yes it is! 

The community pantomime ‘Murder 

in the Wenallt’, which was due to be 

performed in April this year has now 

been postponed until 2021. 

Prepaid ticket sales have been 

sent to the cancer charity Tenovus 

but director Anthea Parker has 

assured that these ticket sales will 

be honoured when the pantomime 

is actually performed. 

“We were hoping to reschedule 

for next Easter but we will be letting 

people know in the New Year 

regarding dates. It may well be the 

Autumn before we actually get to 

perform but in the meantime, we 

have been making up original songs 

to motivate each other and doing 

'Zoom' rehearsals. 

"We are also privileged to have 

the support of West End Star Peter 

Karrie who is looking forward to 

performing with us again and of 

course, our Rhiwbina councillor 

Jayne Cowan who is revisiting her 

role of the Wicked/Good Witch! 

Hopefully the audiences will see 

the results of our efforts next year!" 

said Anthea. 

£1,300 has already been sent to 

Tenovus to help them during the 

challenging year. 

Elaine Bissenden (who fronts 

the Just Good Friends group in 

Rhiwbina) has also helped the 

fundraising cause by donating £120 

from her daily walks in August. 

Elaine did 10,000 steps a day 

to raise funds for three charities 

and Tenovus Cancer Care was 

privileged to receive her support. 

Sybil Fowler, assisted by the 

Rhiwbina Friends of Tenovus group 

have also been arranging online 

raffles during the last few months. 

Sybil said: 

“We are overwhelmed by the 

support we have received from 

choir members, friends, family and 

residents of Rhiwbina. We have 

delivered some fantastic prizes all 

over Cardiff." 

Caedelyn Park playground plans 

Children in Rhiwbina will be able 

to enjoy a new playground in 

Caedelyn Park in 2021 after plans 

were revealed to build a new 

playground. 

Council officials told Rhiwbina 

Living that plans were underway 

to remove the current playground 

in its entirety and to rebuild a new 

one further away from the houses 

where it is currently situated. It 

is understood that the Council 

looked at replacing the current 

playground equipment but due to 

the current state of the groundwork, 

decided that creating a brand new 

playground from scratch would be 

better for the children. 

The new playground would 

include accessible equipment and 

durable soft flooring to replace the 

current wood barkings, which have 

now lost their safety value. 

It is hoped that the new 

playground will be open in time for 

Summer 2021.

Your letters 

WE 

letters 

WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! 

We love to hear what you've been up to 

so send us your letters and photos! 

We'll do our best to print them all. 

editor@livingmags.co.uk 

Lonely, bored, 

depressed? No 

one to talk to? 

There ARE kind, willing folk 

who will listen and sympathise 

with you, but can’t help unless 

you tell them. Would you like to 

contact them? You don’t need 

a computer or mobile phone. 

No problem, just pick up the 

telephone and dial one of these 

numbers below. 

Please don’t feel you’re on 

your own; help is there if you 

ask for it. This list of befriending 

services for the elderly is just a 

start with companionship, but 

they can also give you helpful 

advice on various issues, eg. help 

with finances, mobility aids and 

transport. Even a small thing like 

the new Council service of having 

library books made available for 

you, can help with boredom. So 

please don’t suffer in silence, 

pick up the phone and speak to 

someone. 

THE SILVER LINE Over 55’s 

All day and night, every day 

0800 470 80 90 

AGE CONNECT Over 65’s 

02920 683600 

AGE CYMRU Friend in Need 

Over 70’s 08000 223 444 Bilingual 

RE-ENGAGE (Formerly Contact 

the Elderly) 0800 716543 

ROYAL VOLUNTARY SERVICE 

(NHS) Over 70’s 0808 196 3646 

ALZHEIMER’S SOCIETY Side by 

Side 0333 1503456 (For relatives) 

CARDIFF COUNCIL ADVICE LINE 

02920 871071 

If this article doesn’t apply to 

you, can you spare a thought for 

those folk who live on their own 

and may not have anyone to talk 

to? Would you be willing to be 

the person who can brighten up 

their day? Please volunteer now - 

phone one of these charities and 

make a difference! 

Dulcie Wilkes 

email 

Safety concerns 

about new cancer 

centre persist 

I’m a retired consultant in public 

health medicine. Until 2017, I was 

Director of the Screening Division 

of Pubic Health Wales, with 

responsibility for the population 

screening programmes in Wales. 

This included the three large cancer 

screening programmes, Breast Test 

Wales, Cervical Screening Wales 

and Bowel Screening Wales. The 

views expressed in this letter are my 

own and have not been discussed 

with Public Health Wales. 

We can all agree that we need 

a replacement for the ageing 

Velindre Cancer Centre, and 

that the staff in the centre do an 

amazing job, caring for cancer 

patients from all over South East 

Wales. 

The replacement project offers 

an opportunity to truly transform 

cancer care in our area, and to 

make sure that we all receive 

the safest, most effective care 

possible. It seems a long time 

since the Summer edition of this 

magazine, which published Dr 

Ashley Roberts' letter describing 

the concerns of many doctors 

about the safety of the new Cancer 

Centre, if built on the Northern 

Meadows. 

Advances in cancer therapy 

mean better survival, but come 

with increased risk of severe side 

effects in some patients, requiring 

urgent support from services 

which won’t be available at a 

standalone site - services such as 

surgery, cardiology, anaesthetics 

and intensive care. Even now, 

some new therapies can’t be 

provided at Velindre because they 

are too risky on a remote site. 

New cancer centres elsewhere 

in the UK are being built on the 

same site as hospitals which can 

immediately offer the full range 

of treatments to these acutely 

ill patients. Other standalone 

centres (such as Mount Vernon 

and Beatson Hospitals) are being 

moved on to acute sites, often 

after safety concerns have been 

raised at those centres. The Cancer 

Centre for South West Wales 

is already based at Singleton 

Hospital in Swansea, where it can 

provide ‘joined up’ care to those 

patients who need it. 

Senior doctors have written to the 

Health Minister and Chief Medical 

Officer asking them to commission 

an independent review of 

the proposals. Responding to 

pressure, Velindre has now 

commissioned the Nuffield Trust to 

provide advice. However, Nuffield 

themselves have stated that their 

work won’t be an independent 

review of the project. 

We need to have trust in the 

safety of the new centre. A 

fully independent review is 

needed, with terms of reference 

determined by an independent 

third party and not Velindre NHS 

Trust. 

We all value the care provided 

by the skilled and dedicated 

staff at Velindre, but there is no 

reason why this same ethos 

couldn’t persist in a centre 

located alongside, but separate 

from, a large acute hospital, able 

to provide immediate care to 

stabilise crucially sick patients 

in emergencies. This happens 

successfully elsewhere in the UK. 

We have the opportunity to build 

a world class cancer centre fit 

for the 21st century in South East 

Wales, but we are at risk of merely 

going for ‘more of the same’- 

at a time when ‘the same’ has 

repeatedly been shown elsewhere 

to result in unsafe care for the 

sickest patients. 

Wales has poor cancer survival 

rates compared with the rest of 

the UK and Europe. The people of 

South East Wales deserve a world 

class service, now and for the 

future. 

Dr Rosemary Fox MBE 

Whitchurch 

5

THE MAZDA SUV RANGE 

% 

AN OFFER 

FOR OUR TIMES 

0% APR* 

And nothing to 

repay for 

3 months^ 

Book a test drive° today, call us on 02920 347445 

Victoria Park Mazda 

Hadfield Road, Cardiff CF11 8AQ 

02920 347445 www.victoriapark-mazda.co.uk 

The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (I/100km) for the Mazda SUV Range: Combined 36.7 (7.7) - 49.6 (5.7). CO 2 emissions (g/km) 186 – 133. Figures shown are for comparability 

purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO 2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real-life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors 

including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. All figures quoted are derived from the latest WLTP test cycle. Retail sales only, subject to availability for vehicles 

registered between 01.10.20 and 31.12.20 at participating dealers. T&C apply. *0% APR Mazda Personal Contract Purchase available on all new Mazda CX-5 models and all-new Mazda CX-30 models’. ^Duration of 

agreement: Up to 36 months. Nothing to repay requires 5% minimum deposit. Finance subject to status, 18s or over. Guarantee may be required. Mazda Financial Services RH1 1SR. Models shown: Mazda CX-30 180ps 

2WD GT Sport. OTR from £29,140. Model Shown features optional Soul Red Crystal Metallic paint (£790). Mazda CX-5 165ps 2WD GT Sport, OTR from £32,530. Model shown features optional Soul Red Crystal Metallic 

paint (£800). OTR price includes VAT, number plates, delivery, 12 months’ road fund licence, first registration fee, 3 year or 60,000 mile warranty and 3 years’ European Roadside Assistance. °Test drives subject to 

applicant status and availability. Details correct at time of going to print. Not available in conjunction with any other offer unless specified. Victoria Park Motor Company Limited, trading as Victoria Park Mazda is a 

credit broker not a lender for this financial promotion. We can introduce you to a limited number of carefully selected finance providers and may receive a commission from them for the introduction.

Open Tuesday to Saturday 

10am to 5pm 

Home Delivery 

still available 

10% off all AW20 collections 

with this advert 

Independent Boutique in Rhiwbina 

Find us in Rhiwbina village 

Park outside the store in Lon Fach Shopping Mews 

9-11 Lon Fach 

Rhiwbeina 

CF14 6DY 

www.calonrhiwbeina.com 

tel: 07929 239012 

email: info@calonrhiwbeina.com 

SALE 

NOW ON 

From 

£1,599 

1,599 

£ 0% Finance 

available 

VISIT OUR 

SHOWROOM TODAY! 

Sloper Road, Cardiff, CF11 8AA 

limegreenuk.com

Making 

good 

happen 

He's travelled the world. He's 

interviewed legends. And he's 

even been the feature of his own TV 

documentary. 

Yet there's one thing that Cardiff's 

adopted Bristolian keeps coming 

back to - kindness. 

"I had a great and happy childhood. 

I was brought up in Bristol and we 

were often being driven over the 

old Severn Bridge into Wales for 

day trips and holidays. 

"There must be something about 

the attraction of Wales as myself, 

my brother and my sister all 

ended up studying here. My brother 

and I studied in Cardiff and my sister 

went to Swansea University." 

Matt's experiences in youth were 

to shape his take on the world as he 

stepped into adulthood. 

"As well as being an electrician, my 

Dad was also a DJ, so I remember 

decks around the house when I 

was growing up. He was regularly 

looking at future tech; he pretty 

much remortgaged the house so 

he could buy one of the first 

consumer video cameras in 

the 1980s. My Mum was also a 

classically trained piano teacher so 

there was lots of music around the 

house when I was growing up!" 

In fact, Matt spent his 20s as a 

music producer and DJ, travelling 

the world with his best friend. 

"After that, I used my video skills 

to work for the BBC in London, and 

8 

In a world that seems unsettled, unpredictable and troubled, Matt 

Callanan is looking to spread one of life's greatest gifts - kindness 

then I started my own business 

when I moved back to Cardiff - it's 

now been going for 10 years." 

Matt's love for creativity was to 

put him on course for some lifechanging 

moments. 

"I really liked writing when I was 

younger. I always wanted to be a 

journalist, plus I worked out that I 

could get free stuff if I reviewed it. 

I started reviewing music and films 

for a national youth newspaper 

so that I could blag my way into 

movies for free. You'd often see my 

postman carrying piles of vinyl, 

tapes and CDs for me. 

"It was while I was writing for this 

newspaper, aged 15, that one of the 

editors got in touch and said that 

they really enjoyed my writing and 

asked if I had ever thought about 

interviewing people. I hadn’t, but it 

spurred me into a new pathway of 

asking questions to famous people." 

Matt's natural curiosity for human 

nature allowed him to draw the 

best out of the famous names he 

subsequently interviewed. 

"Interviewing people helped 

me get over my shyness, which 

resulted in me becoming Interviews 

Editor at Gair Rhydd - Cardiff 

University’s student newspaper. I 

loved that role; I learnt lots, blagged 

loads of gigs and music, and 

interviewed my heroes like Moby, 

Orbital and DJ Shadow (when he 

played at the Welsh Club!); plus I 

met my DJ partner of 10 years. 

"It was while I was at Cardiff 

Uni that we started DJing for the 

Student’s Union and playing at 

Clwb Ifor Bach. This became the 

springboard to our DJ career. We 

travelled the world for ten years, 

making music that topped the 

dance charts. It's hard to beat a 

job where you’re being paid to 

travel, party, play all your favourite 

records with your best mate - and 

make people dance. It's all about 

connecting the dots." 

More recently, Matt made the 

headlines for his project that's still 

having a positive impact on the 

world to this day. 

"My kindness project came about 

by accident. Over six years ago, 

I had burnt myself out. I was just 

about to become a Dad so I was 

saying yes to lots of jobs, travelling 

the world and doing too many 

flights back to back. There were lots 

of early mornings and late nights. I 

thought that I was superhuman. But 

that wasn't the case. 

"During my recovery, I delved 

into what my purpose really is. I 

slowed down. I didn’t say yes to 

every single job that I was offered. I 

thought lots about what it takes to 

be a good Dad. My own Dad was 

amazing in the community, often 

helping others. He would do stuff 

for the homeless, take food to the 

food banks and he’d be packaging

off clothes to go to India. I grew 

up seeing my hero helping others. 

That was inspiring. I realised that I 

needed to be more like my Dad. 

"Sadly, he passed away from 

cancer at the age of 58. So I started 

being more proactive about helping 

others and donating films to 

charities and causes that couldn’t 

afford them." 

Matt's We Make Good Happen 

movement had started out as a 

father-and-son project, achieving 

403 good deeds to positively 

impact 12,000 people. 

"There’s a Bill Murray connection 

to the number!" laughs Matt. "I was 

interviewing actor George Clooney 

for a US documentary in his house 

when the theme of kindness came 

into focus. George had been talking 

about how he helps others and I 

decided at that moment to properly 

focus on kindness, and carry on the 

legacy of my Dad. My Dad had got 

me into film-making and here I was, 

sat opposite a Hollywood legend. 

In walked Bill 

Murray and 

introduced 

himself to me 

"While we were packing up the 

camera kit, in walked Bill Murray 

and introduced himself to me. Bill is 

my absolute hero, so I thought that 

this day couldn't get any better. 

"On the way back to Cardiff, while 

buying some snacks in a shop, I 

decided to buy a lottery scratch 

card for the first time. The first two 

numbers were £250,000. All I had 

to do was find another one to win 

that amount. I really thought that I 

was on a winning streak. I furiously 

scratched off the remaining 

numbers and saw that I’d won! But 

only £20. 

"The drive back to Cardiff got me 

thinking that all of this had perhaps 

happened for a reason. A few weeks 

later, I took a Big Issue vendor into 

a supermarket, gave him a basket, 

told him to fill it up and that it was 

on me. Afterwards, he gave me 

a massive hug, a big kiss on the 

cheek; he tapped his heart and 

said ‘My brother, my brother.' In 

that moment, I felt warm, like we’d 

connected and I wanted to do 

more of it. That was the start of We 

Make Good Happen. This principle 

of using small amounts of money 

to do good and create a positive 

impact on a person led me to start 

#Tenner4Good." 

#Tenner4Good saw Matt hide a 

number of £10 notes in envelopes 

in and around Cardiff. Inside each 

envelopes were 2 rules: 

- Don’t spend it on yourself 

- Do some good with it. 

The idea went viral online. 

Matt was featured live on BBC 

Breakfast News and was on the 

BBC website's front page for three 

days. Matt's subsequent BBC Three 

documentary on the subject had 

over 3 million views; it was reported 

in many of the tabloids. 

"The George and Bill day was the 

start of everything. It gave my life a 

purpose. But I had to get over my 

massive fear of speaking in public - 

after a limiting belief that had held 

me back since my youth." 

In secondary school, Matt's 

teacher stood him up and berated 

him in front of the whole class for 

spelling a word incorrectly. 

"All the pupils started laughing and 

I went through embarrassment and 

shame to the point where I was in 

tears. I never wanted to stand up in 

front of others again. That teacher 

stole my voice for many years. 

I’ve only recently been tested and 

found out I’ve got mild dyslexia." 

Since then, Matt has used his voice 

to tell his story and to inspire others 

into positive action. 

"Getting over that fear, to now 

speaking internationally and doing 

gigs like TEDx also allows me to 

help others to use their voices to 

make a powerful impact." 

Matt has since combined his 

love of tech and his inspirational 

message to reach people - through 

the medium of podcasting. 

Podcasting is a free service that 

allows internet users to listen to 

'shows' on their computers or 

personal digital audio players, much 

like radio. 

people 

"Podcasting is amazing. There’s 

so much potential right now - just 

because there’s so few people 

doing it. There are only around 1 

million podcasts right now and 

only about half of those are active. 

There’s plenty of opportunity for 

your voice to make an impact and 

your brand to be seen and heard. 

"It’s so rewarding when listeners 

get in touch about my podcast 

We Make Success Happen and let 

me know how it’s inspired them. 

I’ve had people on there such as 

Charlotte Church talking about her 

Awen school project, the late and 

great Dilys Price OBE revealing all 

her incredible wisdom, through to 

Kerrie Aldrige who was London 

Marathon’s last finisher." 

Matt has recently launched a 

course to educate people so that 

they can create their own podcasts. 

"People that have been on my 

Podcast Like A Pro course have said 

it’s life changing. I can’t guarantee 

that, but I get people to think a lot 

deeper about why they’re starting 

a podcast, how it ties in with their 

mission or purpose and how they 

can use it as a vehicle to achieve 

their Big Boldacious Goal. 

"One podcast episode I did 

resulted in a whole chain of events 

that saw in a guy in Africa being 

able to buy a piece of land and 

build a house on it for his family. 

That’s an incredible domino effect!" 

2020 has taught Matt some 

lessons in life too: 

"We all have inner skills that we 

can use to be inventive, be more 

compassionate and be community 

driven." 

You can find out more about Matt 

and his podcasting course at 

mattcallanan.co.uk 

Matt's podcasting 

has helped 

inspire positivity 

throughout the 

world 

9

ONLINE ORDERING AND RESERVATIONS 

A RATHER LONG 

INTERMISSION! 

October was our anniversary month and we should 

have been flinging open the doors to Canolfan and 

throwing a great big party with fizz, food and fabulous 

film to celebrate our 5th Birthday with our wonderful 

audiences. 

Unfortunately, with restrictions still in place, we’re 

unable to celebrate to thank our audiences and box 

offices for their support, but celebrate we will when it’s 

safe and sensible to do so. 

We really miss getting together with the community, 

welcoming everyone in and settling down in a great 

atmosphere with a great film. In the 5 years, we’ve 

enjoyed over 50 feature films with over 3,000 people. 

So, until we can dust off the big screen, turn on the 

projector and pile up the usherette’s tray with icecream 

and welcome everyone back to Rhiwbina’s 

Community Cinema, we hope everyone takes care and 

stays safe. 

In the meantime, we continue to produce our monthly 

newsletter sharing some great movie inspiration at 

www.monicomovies.co.uk 

@MonicoMovies 

www.facebook.com/MonicoMovies 

ONLY 

£8.95 

SPECIAL LUNCH MENU 

for TWO 

courses 

SPECIALS ARE BACK! 

ONLY 

Lunch 12-2pm and Evening 5-10pm 

Monday to Saturday (Friday lunch closed) 

Offers are subject to terms and conditions - see website for details 

We’re back to our normal opening hours. 

With reduced seating for social distancing and contamination 

preventing protocols in place. Such as masks, visors and 

designated work areas for staff. Regular deep cleaning and 

S P E C 

£13.95 

for TWO 

courses 

It’s been a tough year but we’re ready to help you make the best of it this Christmas! 

I A L 

E A R LY 

M E N U 

E V E N 

increased equipment and utensil sanitation. Customers will be asked to sanitize their hands on arrival 

and to wear a mask when not at their table. We have printed single use menus using an antibacterial coating. 

BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN 

FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY CELEBRATIONS 

I N G 

CALL 029 2062 8894 to make a booking 

OR use the online booking service on our website. 

www.juborajgroup.com 

AVAILABLE 

NOW

'TIS THE SEASON TO SUPPORT LOCAL 

YYYOOOOOOOOUUURRRRRRRR RRRRRRRREEEEEEEAALL 

PPRRRRRRRREEEEEEE-OOOOOOOORRRRRRRRDDDEEEEEEERRRRRRRR 

TTTRRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEEEEEE FFRRRRRRRROOOOOOOOMM PPUUUGHH'SSS 

CHHRRRRRRRRIISSSTTTMMAASSS 

GGeeeeeeeennnnnnnneeeeeeeerrrrrrrraaaaaaaattttttttiiiiiiiioooooooonnnnnnnnssssssss oooooooofffffff fffffffaaaaaaaammmmmmmmiiiiiiiilllllllliiiiiiiieeeeeeeessssssss ppppppiiiiiiiicccccccckkkkk aaaaaaaa PPPPPuuuuuuuugggggggghhhhhhhh''''ssssssss 

FFOOOOOOOORRRRRRRR DDDEEEEEEELLIIVEEEEEEERRRRRRRRYYY TTTOOOOOOOO YYYOOOOOOOOUUURRRRRRRR DDDOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOORRRRRRRR! 

CCCCChhhhhhhhrrrrrrrriiiiiiiissssssssttttttttmmmmmmmmaaaaaaaassssssss TTTTTrrrrrrrreeeeeeeeeeeeeeee eeeeeeeeaaaaaaaacccccccchhhhhhhh yyyyyyyyeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaarrrrrrrr fffffffoooooooorrrrrrrr iiiiiiiittttttttssssssss bbbbbbbeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaauuuuuuuuttttttttyyyyyyyy,,,,,,, 

quuuuuuuuaaaaaaaalllllllliiiiiiiittttttttyyyyyyyy aaaaaaaannnnnnnndddddddd ssssssssttttttttaaaaaaaattttttttuuuuuuuussssssss aaaaaaaannnnnnnndddddddd ttttttttoooooooo rrrrrrrreeeeeeeettttttttaaaaaaaaiiiiiiiinnnnnnnn tttttttthhhhhhhheeeeeeee fffffffeeeeeeeessssssssttttttttiiiiiiiivvvveeeeeeee 

ttttttttrrrrrrrraaaaaaaaddddddddiiiiiiiittttttttiiiiiiiioooooooonnnnnnnn..... AAAAAAAtttttttt PPPPPuuuuuuuugggggggghhhhhhhh''''ssssssss wwwwwwweeeeeeee wwwwwwwaaaaaaaannnnnnnntttttttt ttttttttoooooooo mmmmmmmmaaaaaaaakkkkkeeeeeeee ssssssssuuuuuuuurrrrrrrreeeeeeee tttttttthhhhhhhhaaaaaaaatttttttt 

nnnnnnnnoooooooobbbbbbbooooooooddddddddyyyyyyyy hhhhhhhhaaaaaaaassssssss ttttttttoooooooo mmmmmmmmiiiiiiiissssssssssssssss oooooooouuuuuuuutttttttt oooooooonnnnnnnn tttttttthhhhhhhhiiiiiiiissssssss 

ttttttttrrrrrrrraaaaaaaaddddddddiiiiiiiittttttttiiiiiiiioooooooonnnnnnnn tttttttthhhhhhhhiiiiiiiissssssss yyyyyyyyeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaarrrrrrrr,,,,,,, ssssssssoooooooo wwwwwwweeeeeeee aaaaaaaarrrrrrrreeeeeeee ooooooooffffffffffffffeeeeeeeerrrrrrrriiiiiiiinnnnnnnngggggggg 

aaaaaaaannnnnnnn aaaaaaaaddddddddddddddddiiiiiiiittttttttiiiiiiiioooooooonnnnnnnnaaaaaaaallllllll eeeeeeeexxttttttttrrrrrrrraaaaaaaa ssssssssppppppeeeeeeeecccccccciiiiiiiiaaaaaaaallllllll sssssssseeeeeeeerrrrrrrrvvvviiiiiiiicccccccceeeeeeee 

wwwwwwwhhhhhhhheeeeeeeerrrrrrrreeeeeeee yyyyyyyyoooooooouuuuuuuu ccccccccaaaaaaaannnnnnnn nnnnnnnnoooooooowwwwwww pppppprrrrrrrreeeeeeeeoooooooorrrrrrrrddddddddeeeeeeeerrrrrrrr yyyyyyyyoooooooouuuuuuuurrrrrrrr 

RRReeeeeeeeaaaaaaaallllllll CCCCChhhhhhhhrrrrrrrriiiiiiiissssssssttttttttmmmmmmmmaaaaaaaassssssss TTTTTrrrrrrrreeeeeeeeeeeeeeee oooooooonnnnnnnnlllllllliiiiiiiinnnnnnnneeeeeeee ttttttttoooooooo bbbbbbbeeeeeeee hhhhhhhhaaaaaaaannnnnnnndddddddd 

ppppppiiiiiiiicccccccckkkkkeeeeeeeedddddddd bbbbbbbyyyyyyyy oooooooonnnnnnnneeeeeeee oooooooofffffff oooooooouuuuuuuurrrrrrrr eeeeeeeexxppppppeeeeeeeerrrrrrrrttttttttssssssss aaaaaaaannnnnnnndddddddd ddddddddeeeeeeeelllllllliiiiiiiivvvveeeeeeeerrrrrrrreeeeeeeedddddddd ssssssssttttttttrrrrrrrraaaaaaaaiiiiiiiigggggggghhhhhhhhtttttttt ttttttttoooooooo yyyyyyyyoooooooouuuuuuuurrrrrrrr ddddddddoooooooooooooooorrrrrrrr!!! WWWWeeeeeeee ddddddddoooooooonnnnnnnn’’’tttttttt kkkkknnnnnnnnoooooooowwwwwww 

wwwwwwwhhhhhhhhaaaaaaaatttttttt’’’ssssssss hhhhhhhhaaaaaaaappppppppppppeeeeeeeennnnnnnniiiiiiiinnnnnnnngggggggg fffffffrrrrrrrroooooooommmmmmmm oooooooonnnnnnnneeeeeeee ddddddddaaaaaaaayyyyyyyy ttttttttoooooooo tttttttthhhhhhhheeeeeeee nnnnnnnneeeeeeeexxtttttttt aaaaaaaatttttttt tttttttthhhhhhhheeeeeeee mmmmmmmmoooooooommmmmmmmeeeeeeeennnnnnnntttttttt,,,,,,, bbbbbbbuuuuuuuutttttttt wwwwwwweeeeeeee ccccccccaaaaaaaannnnnnnn bbbbbbbeeeeeeee ssssssssuuuuuuuurrrrrrrreeeeeeee 

oooooooofffffff oooooooonnnnnnnneeeeeeee tttttttthhhhhhhhiiiiiiiinnnnnnnngggggggg,,,,,,, yyyyyyyyoooooooouuuuuuuu wwwwwwwoooooooonnnnnnnn’’’tttttttt mmmmmmmmiiiiiiiissssssssssssssss oooooooouuuuuuuutttttttt oooooooonnnnnnnn yyyyyyyyoooooooouuuuuuuurrrrrrrr PPPPPuuuuuuuugggggggghhhhhhhh''''ssssssss CCCCChhhhhhhhrrrrrrrriiiiiiiissssssssttttttttmmmmmmmmaaaaaaaassssssss TTTTTrrrrrrrreeeeeeeeeeeeeeee wwwwwwwhhhhhhhheeeeeeeerrrrrrrreeeeeeeevvvveeeeeeeerrrrrrrr yyyyyyyyoooooooouuuuuuuu aaaaaaaarrrrrrrreeeeeeee 

aaaaaaaaccccccccrrrrrrrroooooooossssssssssssssss SSSSoooooooouuuuuuuutttttttthhhhhhhh WWWWaaaaaaaalllllllleeeeeeeessssssss!!! WWWWeeeeeeee aaaaaaaallllllllssssssssoooooooo hhhhhhhhaaaaaaaavvvveeeeeeee ttttttttrrrrrrrreeeeeeeeeeeeeeee lllllllliiiiiiiigggggggghhhhhhhhttttttttssssssss,,,,,,, ddddddddeeeeeeeeccccccccoooooooorrrrrrrraaaaaaaattttttttiiiiiiiioooooooonnnnnnnnssssssss aaaaaaaannnnnnnndddddddd bbbbbbbaaaaaaaauuuuuuuubbbbbbblllllllleeeeeeeessssssss 

aaaaaaaavvvvaaaaaaaaiiiiiiiillllllllaaaaaaaabbbbbbblllllllleeeeeeee oooooooonnnnnnnnlllllllliiiiiiiinnnnnnnneeeeeeee ssssssssoooooooo yyyyyyyyoooooooouuuuuuuu ccccccccaaaaaaaannnnnnnn ggggggggeeeeeeeetttttttt eeeeeeeevvvveeeeeeeerrrrrrrryyyyyyyytttttttthhhhhhhhiiiiiiiinnnnnnnngggggggg yyyyyyyyoooooooouuuuuuuu nnnnnnnneeeeeeeeeeeeeeeedddddddd iiiiiiiinnnnnnnn oooooooonnnnnnnneeeeeeee ccccccccoooooooonnnnnnnnvvvv ennnnnnnniiiiiiiieeeeeeeennnnnnnntttttttt ppppppllllllllaaaaaaaacccccccceeeeeeee!!! 

SSSShhhhhhhhoooooooopppppp OOOOOnnnnnnnnlllllllliiiiiiiinnnnnnnneeeeeeee aaaaaaaatttttttt wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww.....ppppppuuuuuuuugggggggghhhhhhhhssssssssggggggggaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrddddddddeeeeeeeennnnnnnncccccccceeeeeeeennnnnnnnttttttttrrrrrrrreeeeeeee.....ccccccccoooooooo.....uuuuuuuukkkkk 

Perfect, Hand-Picked Hampers, Festive Food, Christmas 

Meat Orders and much more at Pugh's Food Hall! 

Yooour lllooocaalll, iinnnnddeeeeeppeeeeennnnddeeeeennnntt eeeeesssssseeeeennnnttiiaalll ssshooopp 

PPPPPUGGHH''''SSSS FFFFOOOOOOOOOODDDD HHAAAAAAALLLLLL,,,,,,, TTTTTYYNNNAAAAAAANNNTTTTT RRROOOOOAAAAAAADDDD,,,,,,, CCCCCAAAAAAARRRDDDDIFFFFFFFF,,,,,,, CCCCCFFFF15 8LLLB..... OOOOOPPPPPEEENNN 7 DDDDAAAAAAAYYSSSS AAAAAAA WWWWEEEEEEK

kids 

2020 is a year that we'll never forget. For our children, it'll forever 

be part of their childhoods. Here's how they remember it 

Ben aged 9 

What’s been the hardest 

thing about 2020? 

Being in lockdown and not being 

able to see my family and friends. 

I missed doing all my sports and 

going to Cubs. I like to go out and 

do lots of things and see people, 

so I missed being able to do this. 

What have you learnt through this experience? 

I’ve learned how to entertain myself and how to social 

distance. I’ve also got much fitter as I did Joe Wicks 

every day and went for lots of walks and runs. I’ve 

learned how to cope through tough times. 

How are you enjoying being back at school? 

I like being back at school and seeing my friends. I’m 

learning lots of new things with my teacher, which I’m 

really enjoying. It’s a bit strange being back because we 

have to stay in our pens at break and can’t play with our 

friends in the other classes, but I’m getting used to it. 

What are your hopes for 2021? 

My hopes for 2021 are that COVID will go away and we 

will all have a happy and safe year and won’t have to 

worry any more. 

12 

2020: In our own words 

Barnaby 

aged 3 

What was hard 

when we had to stay 

home? 

It was hard because of 

the virus and we had to 

stay home. I wanted to 

go on the choo choo 

track and go under the 

tunnel. 

Evie aged 9 



The hardest thing was when 

we had to stay home during 

lockdown and when I couldn't 

see my friends. I also missed 

going to school and the 

teacher I had. 


One thing I've learnt is that people can be more 

caring towards each other by showing awareness 

of protecting others, rather than just thinking about 

themselves. 


I am happy to see my friends and happy to have a new 

teacher. I'm also happy that I'm learning more stuff. 


That we get a vaccine and that the virus will go and 

we can get things back to normal. I would like to go on 

holiday and have sleepovers and playdates with my 

friends. 

How are you enjoying being back at nursery? 

It's really great. I have fun at nursery because I like 

nursery. 

What are you looking forward to doing when 

the virus has gone? 

I look forward to going to the shoe shop and to go and 

look for trains. I will have a party with my friends as they 

don't have the virus.

Lola aged 9 

What’s been the hardest thing 

about 2020? 

Not seeing my friends and family 

for such a long time. 

What have you learnt through 

this experience? 

I have learnt how important germs are and how 

dangerous they can be. 


I’m enjoying it but there have been some ups and 

downs and it’s a bit scary as the teachers have to wear 

masks and face coverings. 


That everyone gets better from Covid and that the 

vaccines work and that we can go back on holiday. 

Joe aged 8 


about 2020? 

Covid 19 as it’s made lots of people ill 

and die. 


I’ve learnt to keep a safe distance and to wash my 

hands very well. 


It’s been good. It’s been fun. It’s been nice to see all my 

friends but the work has been a bit boring. 


That Covid will go away. Seeing all my friends again. 

And not being in lockdown and to having a good 

Christmas and have a non-Covid year. 

Ruby aged 6 



The hardest thing about 2020 

has not being able to see my 

friends. 

What have you learnt 

through this experience? 

I’ve learnt that if you get the 

virus, you can get very ill. You 

have to use hand sanitiser 

a lot and even if you don’t have it but one of your 

classmates does, you have to stay at home and 

isolate. 


Yes, it’s been lots of fun being back with my friends. 


My hopes for 2021 are that the virus isn’t a thing any 

more and that all the germs go away. 

Rosie aged 9 

What’s been the hardest thing about 2020? 

Probably not seeing my friends, having to work from 

home and having to go into lockdown again. 


To be patient, to know more about my family and to 

know more about Rhiwbina. 

Jenna aged 9 


about 2020? 

The hardest thing has been not seeing 

my friends and family when the 

lockdown started, and not being able 

to go to many places eg. on holiday. 

What have you learnt through this 

experience? 

I’ve learnt how to talk to my friends on the phone whilst 

playing Roblox and I’ve learnt how to use Zoom to do 

my clubs. 


I’m enjoying being back at school and being able to see 

my friends and learning with my teacher. I’m also really 

enjoying outdoor learning and PE. It’s so much fun! 


I hope Covid disappears and that we can get back to 

normal. I hope we can go on holiday again and have 

our friends and family over to celebrate the things we 

missed out on this year. 


I’m enjoying it a lot to get out 

of the house and to see my 

friends and to be learning at 

school. 

What are your hopes for 

2021? 

I am hoping that coronavirus 

will be over by 2021 and I’ll 

be able to see my family in 

Yorkshire, and to be able to 

go on holiday. 

13

The Art Workshop 

Quality Fine Art Tuition for adults and young artists 

We are back in our 

newly expanded studios! 

We have social distancing measures in place to 

keep you safe and Zoom options for home learning 

Term courses and individual 

workshops from qualified tutors 

Drawing, Oil Painting, Watercolours, 

Acrylics, Textile Art, Printmaking 

3 Lon Fach, Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 6DY 

For timetable and booking see 

w: www.theartworkshop.co.uk 

e: theartworkshop@live.co.uk 

t: 07947 003111 

Rhiwbina News from your local Councillors 

Jayne Cowan, Oliver Owen & Adrian Robson 

Dear Resident, 

We hope you are keeping well. 2020 has been a year like no other, 

but what we have seen in abundance is fantastic community spirit. 

We have seen many meetings and events reinvent themselves via 

Zoom, Teams and Skype and more quizzes than we can ever 

remember! 

We have access to many services which could be useful to 

residents over the winter months. Please ring us in confidence to 

see what help we can give. The Council offer excellent Meals on 

Wheels, Community Alarm (which ranges from a pendant around 

your neck to mats next to your bed), support if you’re struggling to 

pay council tax and much more. Please don’t suffer in silence 

during this difficult time. Reach out and support will be given. 

Whatever happens with the next stages of Coronavirus, there is 

help available. Please contact us so we can add you to our mailing 

list for updates. We will continue to also post regularly on social 

media and our website www.RhiwbinaWard.co.uk. 

With our best wishes 

Jayne 

Oliver 

Adrian 

Stay in Touch 

Jayne, Oliver and Adrian 

www.RhiwbinaWard.co.uk

Guiding 

you home 

Our Specialist Property Solicitors will 

lead you through any complications 

during your property transaction giving 

you valuable advice and ensuring there 

is always light at the end of the tunnel. 

Relax and let us do the hard work. 

Navigating your way through the 

complexities of a property transaction can 

be stressful but our experienced, accessible 

and caring team of lawyers take the time to 

successfully guide you every step of the way. 

Our services include: 

• Residential Property 

• Commercial Property 

• Landlord + Tenant 

• Wills and Estate Planning 

• Estate Administration + Probate 

• Lasting Powers of Attorney 

1 Heol-y-Deri, Rhiwbina, 

Cardiff, CF14 6HA 

Monday - Friday 

9.00am - 5.30pm 

And on Saturdays 

10.00am - 4.00pm 

emyrpierce.co.uk 

Call us today for a detailed Quote; 

02920 616 002

Loneliness 

Remember that you're 

not alone 

Since its outbreak in December 

last year, the coronavirus disease 

has quickly spread into a global 

pandemic. 

The scientific community has 

already made great advances in 

understanding the virus, but what's 

less well-known is the true effect 

of the anxiety surrounding it. Due 

to the isolation needed to slow the 

spread of the disease, one thing 

that has risen is the number of 

people feeling lonely. 

Social isolation and loneliness 

16 

If you've been feeling disconnected from your friends and family 

throughout the pandemic, take heart. There are ways to cope 

are however, different. Loneliness 

is an uncomfortable feeling 

that happens when there’s an 

imbalance between the quantity 

and quality of relationships we 

would like in our lives - to those 

that we actually have. 

Loneliness can lead to health 

implications like increased risk of 

heart disease, cancer, diabetes 

and mental health issues so it's 

important to try and process 

what is going on. Even talking 

about loneliness will start to help 

you understand your thought 

processes. 

A lack of social contact can be 

traumatising for many people, and 

if you're feeling the effects of this, 

one thing you should remember is 

that you are not alone. 

Looking after ourselves 

and others 

At the root of loneliness lies the 

connection with ourselves so when 

we're feeling good about ourselves, 

we find it easier to open up to other 

people and to connect with them. 

Loneliness is often associated 

with life-changing events and this 

can take its toll on both our physical 

and emotional needs. Practical 

needs can be addressed by 

taking the time to care for yourself 

properly, whether that's through 

diet, exercise or rest, or a mixture of 

all three. 

The emotional side of loneliness 

goes a lot deeper and can be 

associated with feelings of low 

self-worth and questions about 

your own value. During lockdowns, 

we may find ourselves out of work 

or unable to help in ways that we 

used to before. 

Contributing to the community 

if possible can help restore that 

sense of purpose, even if it's 

supporting more vulnerable 

neighbours. Post notes through the 

doors of neighbours, offering your 

help with things like shopping or 

gardening if you are able to. 

If you have to self-isolate, do 

the things that you enjoy doing at 

home.

Build an online 

community 

The internet and the digital age 

has given us the wondrous gift 

of being able to keep in touch 

remotely. 

Although it will never replace a 

physical hug, building yourself an 

online community will allow you 

to interact with people in real-time 

or at your own pace. Throughout 

2020, many online communities 

and events have sprung up to 

help keep people connected - 

from online musical events to 

community cookery classes and 

online fitness classes. 

The internet also gives us the 

opportunity to learn something 

new, whether it's a new hobby, 

brushing up on existing skills 

or online classes for things like 

arts and crafts, cookery, DIY or 

gardening. It's also possible that 

you can make new friends in 

the process of taking on these 

new challenges. They will also 

help pass the time and more 

importantly, make you feel better 

about yourself. 

Pick up the phone 

A survey taken before the 

lockdown found that more than a 

third of people in the UK over the 

age of 44 are lonely, and almost 

half of them have felt that way 

for more than six years. Since the 

start of the pandemic of course, 

those numbers will have only been 

compounded. 

We can sometimes feel lonely 

when people fail to get in touch 

but it's often the case that it 

works both ways. Planning and 

scheduling in calls and making 

them a regular thing will not 

only give you something to look 

forward to but they will also add 

value to your days. Calling or 

receiving calls regularly will mean 

shorter conversations, but the 

contact will help create a routine, 

which will make you feel more 

secure. 

Telephone befriending services 

are also available for those who 

aren't fortunate enough to have 

family to call on from their own 

home. Phone calls alone won't 

help cure loneliness but they can 

help prevent it getting worse. 

wellbeing 

Find faith 

Religious communities are often a 

great way to connect with others 

socially, even if it's virtual or done 

remotely. But that doesn’t mean 

you have to convert to a new 

faith. Spirituality– or faith-based 

programming and events can 

simply be the starting point for 

meeting a whole new group of 

people. Faith-based organisations 

undertake a huge amount of 

activity to tackle loneliness and 

isolation, and to help people feel 

that they belong. The Salvation 

Army is one example of a faithbased 

group helping out. 

Embrace your 

community 

Now more than ever are our 

communities being appreciated 

for what they are all about. 

Community life is essential 

for health and wellbeing, and 

we are all more aware of the 

value of social connections, 

neighbourliness, sense of 

belonging, control, and mutual 

trust. 

Our communities here in Cardiff 

have sprung into action and we 

have seen neighbours seeking 

each other out and becoming 

more acquainted with each other. 

Getting involved in your own 

community can also help with 

your own loneliness as your 

positive actions will be rewarded 

with feelings of self-worth and 

satisfaction. Even if it means 

shopping more local, you'll be 

helping traders and businesses 

that provide your community with 

its economy. 

Charity groups are also reacting 

to the pandemic by providing 

structured frameworks that 

individuals can get involved in. 

Even if we can't gather in large 

groups just yet, the lasting legacy 

of the pandemic could well be that 

we have stronger community ties 

and better relationships with the 

people we live alongside. 

17

Open 

spaces 

Pull on your wellies, fill a 

warm flask and head out 

into the beautiful great 

open spaces here in 

North Cardiff 

6 1. CEFN ONN 

This Grade 2 listed historic park contains a wide 

collection of native and exotic trees. The upper 

park was originally laid out around 100 years ago 

and the streams, ponds, woodlands and other 

planting make this a rich haven for wildlife. 

8 2. FOREST FARM 

The Nature Reserve at Forest Farm was formed 

in 1967 and includes the last remaining stretch 

of the former Glamorganshire Canal, which ran 

from Merthyr Tydfil to Cardiff. The majority of the 

woodland is beech and oak with several trees 

being over 200 years old. 

Photo: Alan Hughes 

65 3. LLANISHEN RESERVOIR 

This is one of the reservoirs constructed as part of the 

Taff Fawr scheme for supplying water to Cardiff and was 

completed in 1886. Welsh Water bought the reservoirs 

from Celsa UK in 2016, following a 15-year battle over their 

future. There are now plans to build a watersports centre, 

offering a range of activities and a visitor hub with a café. 

Photo: Jaggery 

6 4. NORTHERN MEADOWS 

A place of sanctuary for many during the pandemic 

of 2020, the Northern Meadows is home to 23 acres 

of meadow, ancient trees, shrub and grassland. 

From bats to owls, from old trees to young ones, 

from rabbits to buzzards, this area is bursting with 

biodiversity. The area is also used by local residents 

to go blackberry picking and sledging. 

18 

Photo: Chris Marshall

5 5. FOREST FAWR 

There are three heritage trails to choose from at 

Forest Fawr, including a Sculpture Trail with wood 

carvings along the route, old mining caves and 

Castle Coch for touring. 

It is believed that Sir Henry Sidney, a courtier 

to King Henry VIII, had a smelting site near 

Tongwynlais in the 1560s. 

8 6. RADYR WOODS 

Radyr Woods has a network of footpaths and 

boardwalks and includes evidence of Iron Age 

settlements and even remains of an early cooking 

hearth. This community nature reserve covers 14 

acres. 

65 7. BUTE PARK 

Bute Park's famous landscaped gardens have become 

a solace for many during the lockdowns of 2020. From 

2007, Cardiff Council undertook a £5.6 million restoration 

project in the park, which saw increased signage to raise 

awareness of the park's significant tree collection. 

Sophia Gardens and Pontcanna Fields are on the opposite 

side of the river, reached by two footbridges. 

8 8. COED Y WENALLT 

The Wenallt is an area of semi natural ancient woodland, 

designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. There 

are some fairly steep slopes and it can get quite muddy so 

wear appropriate footwear. There stands a communications 

tower at the top of the hill, near an abandoned secret 

nuclear bunker, now sealed off from the public. 

65 9. ROALD DAHL TRAIL 

Celebrating the author's childhood in Llandaff and 

Radyr, the Roald Dahl Trail was unveiled by the 

Llandaff Society in 2016. 

The route starts at Dahl's Ty Mynydd in Radyr. The 

trail then continues into Danescourt and Llandaff, 

where you can see the house where Dahl was 

born, and the infamous sweet shop (now a private 

residence) that featured in Dahl’s story ‘The Great 

Mouse Plot’. 

You can find a full map and details at livingmags. 

co.uk/roald-dahl-trail 

6 10. ST FAGAN'S 

St Fagan's is a great area to walk at any time of year but 

especially so during Autumn and Winter. 

There is an official circular walk that stretches for about 

two miles. It's guided by way-markers and you'll pass 

through ancient woodland. The River Ely is another place of 

interest, itself a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation. 

The location of the walk is believed to be the site of the 

Battle of St. Fagan's, which took place in 1648. 

19

Keep 

Warm 

with a flask 

2020 has been the year that's taught us the importance of spending 

time outside. Taking a flask with you will keep you warm and toasty 

Tea 

The first drink that most people think 

of when it comes to flasks is tea. Tea 

never quite tastes the same as it does 

in a big white mug and the reason 

for that is because many people 

infuse their tea in the flask, which 

impairs the flavour. Instead, prepare 

the tea beforehand and simply use 

the flask as a container to keep it 

warm. Remember to warm the flask 

beforehand by filling it with hot water. 

Because milk is a biological product, 

it has the tendency to curdle. Its living 

micro-organisms also have the ability 

to affect the flavour of other liquids 

that are introduced to the flask and 

can also leave the flask a bit smelly if 

not washed thoroughly afterwards. 

It's worth therefore looking to try 

other teas that don't need milk - 

green tea, turmeric tea and so on. 

Use denture tablets to clear out the 

tea stains inside on a regular basis 

and before they get too heavy. 

Coffee 

Coffee can taste wonderful when 

fresh but the longer it spends in a 

flask, the more acidic it seems to 

taste. The hot water effectively stews 

the coffee over time, making it heavier 

and stronger the longer it's in there. 

Coffee press mugs are now 

available, which means that you can 

use the flask to keep the water hot. 

When you want fresh coffee, simply 

put ground coffee in the travel mug, 

add hot water from the thermos, wait 

a bit, push down the plunger, and 

presto – fresh coffee! 

Hot chocolate 

Another favourite among walkers 

and those who love the outdoors 

is hot chocolate. Prepare your hot 

chocolate in a large jug before 

transferring to the flask to make 

sure that all of the powder has been 

absorbed. 

Take additional sweeteners if you 

like your hot chocolate extra sweet 

as it does tend to lose its sweetness 

over the course of a few hours. If you 

can use plant-based milk instead of 

dairy, you'll find that it curdles less 

and the flask will be easier to clean 

afterwards too. 

Soup 

Of course, you're not limited to drinks 

with a flask. Soups can provide more 

nutrition than plain drinks and can 

therefore be viewed as more a meal. 

There are now specialised soup 

flasks on the market, which often 

includes a spoon and an air release 

button which lets out the hot air that 

sometimes leads to difficulty opening 

the lids. 

Flasks help keep the soup warm 

and in effect, acts as a slow cooker. 

This helps seal in and enhance the 

flavours. 

Soup will save you splashing out 

on expensive yet nutritionallydeficient 

convenience foods while 

you are out and about. Chunky 

soup can also provide your body 

with the carbohydrates it needs 

for energy too, which will come in 

handy if you are out for the entire 

day. 

Warm snacks 

While we often think of flasks and 

drinks, there are no rules to say that 

you can't keep your food warm in 

there. Stew is an ideal candidate for 

the job but pasta dishes can also be 

kept warm. Even foods like scrambled 

egg, meatballs and corn on the cob 

will provide sustenance if you are out 

on a long jaunt. 

Seek out designated food flasks that 

are more designed for the job; ones 

with stainless steel are often easier 

to clean and don't stain as much as 

plastic. 

Exotic tastes 

If you're feeling a little more 

adventurous, you may want to look 

up some alternatives to the usual 

fare. There's the simplicity of a flask 

of beefy Bovril or why not try more 

exotic recipes such as Po Cha, a 

Tibetan tea which is made from water, 

tea leaves, salt, butter and milk. 

If you're out on a cold Winter's day, 

a warming brew will do wonders for 

both body and mind. 

20

5 Star Customer Rating 

We have been supporting our local community 

and have been leaders in Social Distancing for 

over 10 years. Organise your Safe, Contactless, 

Mot, Service or Repair and we will do the rest! 

We are rated 5 Star on Google. 

The Garden Village Garage. 

Going the extra mile so you won’t have to. 

Call us free 

0333 121 2012 

Visit online 

www.GardenVillageGarage.co.uk 

Email us 

info@GardenVillageGarage.co.uk 

We Buy Cars For cash

lifestyle 

Home 

made 

gifts 

he 

If you've got a lot more time on your hands this year, 

why not try some handmade gifts for loved ones this Christmas 

Homemade 

chutneys 

Homemade chutneys are easy 

to create and will also allow you 

to custom-make gifts for your 

loved ones. 

The variety of different flavours 

to be discovered is huge. They 

can be sweet or sour, mild or 

hot, and can be made from 

fruit, vegetables, or a mixture of 

the two. 

The taste of any chutney does 

improve with age so if you are 

thinking of creating some in 

time for Christmas, plan ahead. 

Don't shred your fruit and veg 

too fine or your chutney will end 

up too runny and it's often costeffective 

to reuse food jars than 

buying new ones. 

Handmade soap 

If you've never tried your hand at 

making soap before, the best way 

of getting started is to purchase 

a pre-mixed combination where 

you can add your own oils. 

The basic process involves 

melting the simple base, adding 

in aromatic oils of your choice 

and then pouring it into a mould. 

For more experienced makers, 

you can use add-ins like plant 

butters and extracts for skin 

benefits, along with additives for 

transparency or fillers for making 

opaque bars. 

The soaps will take about 24 

hours to set. You can then pop 

them out and gift wrap them. 

Home made 

Guess Who? 

Families have been playing this 

game for generations but you 

can add your own twist on this 

classic by using photos of your 

own friends and family. 

If you have the original game, 

print out a series of replacement 

cards that you can use instead 

of the standard ones. If you 

don't have access to the original 

game, you can create a very 

cheap alternative using a large 

piece of cardboard, cutting out 

the rectangles needed and 

folding them back to create a 

rack, similar to that of the real 

game. 

You can then paperclip your 

printed replacement cards on 

the rectangles and remove them 

when necessary. 

22

DIY sleeping masks 

An easy gift to make that's guaranteed to bring a smile to a loved 

one's face is a DIY sleeping mask. You'll need a clean, blank sleeping 

mask and some iron-on letters or designs, which you can get online 

or from a local hobby shop. Letters are a great way to go because you 

can personalise your message for each recipient. 

Test your sleeping mask by putting it through a wash to make sure 

that the letterings and/or patterns have stuck properly. Your recipients 

will look forward to hit the Snooze button at bedtime! 

Wind chimes 

Take a 6 inch and a 4 inch 

embroidery hoop and wrap both of 

them with twine. Use a dab of glue 

every so often to hold the twine in 

place. 

Once these are finished, tie the two 

together, a few inches apart, with 

the smaller hoop at the top. Add a 

twine hoop at the top for hanging 

and then it's entirely up to you to 

add what you want below. If you 

don't have traditional metal tubes, 

you could add keys or anything that 

makes a noise. 

Homemade 

marshmallow 

There's nothing more comforting 

than hunkering down with a 

heavy blanket and a bowl full of 

marshmallow on a Winter's night. 

Making your own marshmallow 

is easy enough to do and can be 

gift-wrapped in glassine bags or 

parchment paper. 

Batch cooking a job lot of base 

marshmallow will also allow you to 

create enough to go around and to 

add different flavours for different 

people. 

From peppermint and chocolate 

to coffee and even lavender, 

there's an almost endless variety of 

flavours that you can add to your 

base. 

Be careful with the boiling syrup 

when cooking. 

Rainbow candles 

It's been a year of rainbows and 

you can make your own rainbow 

candles pretty easily with some 

wax crayons, some empty votives 

and some wick. 

Peel the paper from your crayons 

and microwave them individually in 

shallow dishes for about a minute. 

Pour the liquid into the empty 

votive, not forgetting to add the 

candlewick in the centre on the 

first layer. 

Each layer will take about 45 

minutes to set, and you can then 

add another layer until your votive 

is nearly full. If you want distinct 

colours, ensure that each layer 

is completely set before adding 

another. 

Infused vodkas 

Infused vodkas are easy to make, 

delicious to drink and impressive 

to give as a gift. 

You'll need a few days to prepare 

your vodka but all you'll need to do 

is place your vodka and ingredients 

into a mason jar and allow your 

mixture to infuse for a few days. 

Spend some time researching 

your recipes. At this time of year, 

you may want to look at festive 

recipes such as Cranberry and 

Orange; or maybe you will want 

to try a variation on a Christmas 

pudding with all of the herbs and 

spices that go into one. There are 

plenty of recipes online to discover. 

You can add a simple bow and 

label to your bottle to complete 

your gift. 

23

Northwood: 

home of 

worry-free 

landlords 

All the benefits of being a 

landlord, with none of the risk. 

Our Guaranteed Rent Scheme 

gives you a guaranteed monthly 

income, paid into your account 

on the same day every month. 

Even if your property is empty. 

Pop in and speak to a member of the team to find 

out more about how our Guaranteed Rent Scheme 

will revolutionise your landlord experience. 

northwood 

Over & Above 

The UK’s Number One Provider of Guaranteed Rent* 

*See northwooduk.com/no1 

02920 02920 301141 301141 northwooduk.com/cardiff 

| Northwood Cardiff, 23 Northwood Whitchurch Cardiff, Road, 1a/1b 

Heol Y Deri, Rhiwbina, Cardiff Cardiff, CF14 3JN CF14 6HA

How to add value to your 

home 

Regardless of whether you’re 

looking to sell your property now or 

there is a chance for you to do so 

in the future, knowing how to add 

value to your home is invaluable. 

We’d like to share with you some 

of the best methods for adding 

value to your home. But before we 

go into the details, it’s essential to 

cover one main question: 

Why does all of this matter in the 

first place? 

Adding value to your 

home: The benefits 

Being a homeowner goes hand 

in hand with a lot of responsibility 

and a level of decision making 

along the way. It also comes with 

an urge, lots of us have, to know 

how much our house is worth in the 

current market. Even if you have not 

decided to sell your house just yet, 

its value could have an influence 

on other matters such as insurance, 

property tax, financial planning, and 

more for you and your family. 

So let’s see what adds the most 

value to a house. 

You may have asked yourself how 

much value does a new bathroom 

add? Or whether updated double 

glazing will boost the property's 

value more? 

We’ve prepared a short list of small 

house amendments that will help 

your property value shoot up. 

What adds value to a 

house? 

Considering the advantages, what 

are some of the best ways to add 

value to your home? 

Selling your Rhiwbina 

home in 2021? 

Local property expert Kate Gwinnutt from Northwood 

Cardiff on Heol-Y-Deri gives you an insider’s take on 

how to add value to your home in the ‘new normal’ 

New roof 

If you feel that your property’s 

roof can surely use an upgrade, 

we strongly advise you to do 

so. A study on which home 

improvements lead to the best 

returns in the UK reveals that a 

new, top-notch roofing has the 

potential of returning nearly 65% 

on your investment. You can cap 

the investment somewhere around 

£4,000. It takes some of the first 

positions in the list for some viewers 

and is an important consideration 

for some of the older properties we 

have in and around Rhiwbina. So if 

you’ve been wondering whether the 

expense of new roof can add value 

to your home – absolutely! 

New windows 

Initial kerb-appeal is so important 

when somebody looks at your 

home for the first time. Older timber 

windows in poor condition or Upvc 

windows with broken seals can be 

big negatives for potential buyers. 

Apart from beauty, they are a factor 

influencing your property’s security. 

To improve your home’s value 

and make your property safer to 

live in, invest in new windows with 

double glazing. In the UK, the price 

for installing double glazing with 

modern and protective frames in a 

three-bedroom house is between 

£3,000 and £5,000. It does require 

an investment but can significantly 

boost your home’s value in the 

long-term. 

Kitchen 

The kitchen is another area of the 

house which dramatically pulls your 

property value up when renovated. 

This is a central part of the home 

and is definitely a place that most 

home buyers pay close attention 

to. The renovation could bring up 

the value by nearly 10% and you 

don’t even have to break your bank 

to complete the project. Calculate 

how much it’s worth investing 

considering the percentage that will 

go up. 

Which brings us to the next point! 

How to add value to your 

home on a budget 

Do you have to spend a lot of 

money to increase the value of your 

home or are there some things that 

you could do on a budget? 

Here are a few 'decorative' 

examples that could also do the 

trick: 

● • Repainting the walls 

● • Fixing door latches 

● • Getting rid of any mould around 

the house 

● • Taking care of dripping taps 

● • Re-tiling or re-grouting your tiled 

surfaces 

● • Correcting any cracks on the 

ceilings 

● • Cleaning or replacing doorknobs 

● • Investing in new light fixtures 

Unlock the full potential 

of your property 

As you can see, there is so much 

that you can do to get your home’s 

value to go up. You can go all-in 

with the investment or try budgetconscious 

alternatives. 

Regardless, your house could 

quickly become even more of a 

gem for you to live in or sell in the 

future, leading to a better lifestyle 

now and a higher profit in the future. 

And if you do decide to sell, you can 

reach out to our qualified real estate 

agents to help you by providing 

reliable services. We hope that the 

information we’ve provided will 

come in handy and help you reach 

the property value that you’re after. 

1A & 1B Heol Y Deri, Rhiwbina, 

Cardiff, CF14 6HA 

02920 521400 

www.northwooduk.com 

Sponsored feature 25

lifestyle 

winter 

lockdown 

As the Norwegians would say, 'there's no such thing as bad weather - 

just bad clothes'. Learning the lifestyles and emotional techniques 

from our Scandinavian cousins can help us through the Winter 

Turning anxiety 

into excitement 

A study in 2012 theorised that 

changing the way we think about 

our bodily responses can improve 

our physiological and cognitive 

reactions to stressful events. 

Mind over matter: reappraising 

arousal improves cardiovascular 

and cognitive responses to stress 

(Jamieson, Nock, Mendes, 2012) 

showed that participants who had 

been instructed to reappraise 

their arousal to a potentially 

stressful event exhibited 

enhanced cardiovascular stress 

responses, allowing them to cope 

with the event more efficiently. 

A recent study (Get excited: 

reappraising pre-performance 

anxiety as excitement, Brooks 

2014) showed that participants 

who repeated positive phrases 

eg. 'I am excited!' before a 

stressful event improved their 

subsequent performance and 

capability. 

26 

Remembering 

that bad things 

happen 

Bad things happen to everyone 

but in many cases, being able to 

'reframe' the event in your own 

mind may help offset the negative 

connotations that come with it. 

For instance, we can often reflect 

on ourselves in a negative way 

when bad things happen, as if we 

were to blame. Realising that we 

aren't responsible personally for 

everything bad that's happening to 

us (eg. the pandemic) can help us 

cope better. 

Negative events also give us 

the opportunity to challenge 

ourselves. Realising that these 

events happen to everyone, and 

that they can present us with an 

opportunity to learn and adapt, 

can help ease the overwhelming 

sense of dread. Bad things can 

give us a chance to grow and 

improve. 

Seasonal 

differences 

The Tromsø Study in 2012 

investigated whether people 

living in the sub-arctic had more 

sleeping problems or mental 

distress during Winter. They 

found that although insomnia 

was most prevalent in Winter, 

there were no significant 

seasonal differences in mental 

distress. The negative impact of 

Winter on mental distress for the 

adult population was not proven 

to be conclusive.

Season Affective Disorder 

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is sometimes known 

as 'Winter Depression' because the symptoms are 

usually more apparent and more severe during the 

Winter months. 

Symptoms of SAD can include a persistent low 

mood, a loss of pleasure or interest in normal 

everyday activities and irritability. 

An SAD lamp, light or lightbox uses light therapy 

to help improve the mood of people experiencing 

Seasonal Affective Disorder. The box gives off bright 

light that mimics natural outdoor light. It is thought 

that the light affects the brain chemicals linked to 

mood and sleep. 

Hygge 

Pronounced 'hoo-ga,' this Danish concept can't be translated to one 

single word. Instead, it encompasses a feeling of cosy contentment and 

well-being through enjoying the simple things in life. It derives from a 

sixteenth-century Norwegian term, hugga, meaning 'to comfort' or 'to 

console,' and is related to the English word 'hug.' 

If you've ever enjoyed reading a book indoors on a rainy Sunday 

afternoon or a steaming mug of hot chocolate on a silent snowy day, you 

will have experienced hygge without even knowing it. 

The warm glow of a log fire is hygge. And there's nothing more hygge 

than sitting around with family, discussing the little and the big things in 

life. Perhaps hygge explains why the Danes are regularly described as 

some of the happiest people in the world. 

Active coping 

Vitamins galore 

Ensure that you're not deficient in 

any minerals or vitamins as this will 

help you feel healthy and avoid 

you picking up any unwanted 

bugs. It will also provide you with 

the energy you need to get you 

through the Winter. Take in lots 

of varied fruits and vegetables 

and healthy fats like those in oily 

fish. Protein and fibre also have a 

positive effect on balancing your 

blood sugar levels so include 

these in your diet where you can. 

Realising the situation that we are 

in helps us come to terms with 

the reality of it all. And by actively 

coping - setting up a home office, 

planning proper home schooling 

schedules - will help you feel more 

in control of your world. 

Even exercise and healthy 

eating can help you feel as if 

you are proactively coping with 

the situation, and make you feel 

happier and more relaxed. 

Open-air living 

Embracing the outdoors instead of 

seeing it as something to hide from 

can help you feel less anxious and 

worried about the Winter. 

A study carried out by King’s 

College London in 2018, found 

that exposure to trees, the sky and 

birdsong in cities improved mental 

wellbeing, with the benefits lasting 

hours after returning indoors. 

Even camping outdoors in the 

Winter, where possible, can help 

you feel more at one with nature. 

In Scandinavian countries, it is 

common to see families wrapped 

up warm and grouped together 

around a fire, eating, drinking and 

catching up. 

27

1 

2 

2 

3 

4 

1. Evelyn patterned 

cushion £15 

With a cheery yellow colour 

and a graphic, handdrawn 

design, the Evelyn 

patterned cushion adds 

instant sunshine to a room. 

Made from 100% cotton, the 

cushion measures 45cm by 

45cm. 

Habitat 

28 

2. Stovax Vogue Midi 

Log Burner £POA 

Offering a superb 

view of the flames, the 

versatile styling of the 

Stovax Vogue Midi wood 

burning and multi-fuel 

stove fits perfectly into 

contemporary and 

traditional interiors alike. 

Limegreen 

WINTER nesting 

3. Cockapoo dog soft 

toy £17.95 

These super soft and super 

cuddly animals by Wilberry 

Toys are the perfect 

companion for little ones 

when it comes to cuddling 

up on the sofa to watch a 

festive movie. Suitable for 

12 months upwards. 

littlepeoplestore.co.uk 

4. Olympia Kiln Mug 

Ocean 340ml (Pack 

of 6) £39 

There are no sharp colours 

on this mug and the rim is 

hand painted so that every 

cup is unique. The foot of 

the cup is polished so that 

it will not mark the glaze on 

the saucer. 

www.nisbets.co.uk

home 

5 

5 

6 

7 

8 

5. Alaskan Husky Faux 

Fur Heated Throw 

£100 

This super-soft, faux 

Alaskan Husky fur electric 

blanket warms up in just 

5 minutes. It has 6 heat 

settings and a light-up LED 

display. It costs pennies to 

run for a whole night. 

www.lakeland.com 

6. Woodwick Winter 

Candles from £9.99 

Winter in a jar. The 

Woodwick Trilogy candles 

give you three fragrances 

that combine to give you a 

unique experience. The wick 

also crackles as it burns, 

simulating a burning log fire. 

Perfect for cosy evenings. 

Cardiff Bed Centre 

7. Ceramic House 

Christmas Lantern £12 

A homely Christmas light 

for your festive table or 

mantelpiece. This ceramic 

house is lit up from the 

inside, with a warm tealightstyle 

glow shining through 

the windows. A welcoming 

Winter sight in miniature. 

John Lewis 

8. Bjorn Ochre Floor 

Lamp £99 

This beautiful fixture will 

brighten up any dark 

morning or stormy evening. 

Finished in vibrant ochre, 

this contemporary style 

floor lamp features a 

durable and stylish wooden 

base. 

www.dunelm.com 

29

Serving your 

local community 

CARDIFF BED & 

FURNITURE CENTRE 

Your local furniture store 

Beds • Sofas • Dining Sets •Home Delivery 

We will collect and dispose of replaced items • Orders for carpets now being taken 

47 Merthyr Road, Whitchurch, Cardiff CF14 1DB 

02920 615719 info@cardiffbedcentre.co.uk 

Open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm Sat 10am-4pm 

www.cardiffbedcentre.co.uk

ST DAVID’S SIXTH FORM 

VIRTUAL 

OPEN EVENING 

DISCOVER MORE ONLINE: 

WWW.STDAVIDSCOLLEGE.AC.UK 

LIVE EVENT ON: 

13 TH JAN 2021

parc-y 

-pentre 

Parc-y-Pentre is enjoyed by Rhiwbina residents all year round. Yet it was 

never intended to be a park. Here's the story of a village gem 

Hidden away behind the hustle and 

bustle of village life sits an area of 

greenery that only the locals seem 

to know about. 

Yet its history suggests that it was 

never intended to be a park at all. 

The Garden Village was begun in 

1912 to a masterplan by Raymond 

Unwin, one of the leading architects 

of the Garden City movement. The 

first 34 houses were built in 1913 

and more were built from 1919 to 

1923, occupying an area between 

Pen-y-Dre and Lon Isa. When 

the Garden Village was originally 

conceived, several greens and 

small parks were originally included 

as part of the layout. The land 

which now forms Parc-y-Pentre was 

originally earmarked as a smaller 

square around which houses would 

be built, similar to that of Charlotte 

Square or Y Groes. Entry would have 

been gained from the entrance on 

Lon Isa, which now provides one of 

the three entrances to the park. 

The houses were never 

constructed, leaving the upper 

floors of the surrounding houses 

on all sides exposed. For many 

years, the land was left as more 

32 

of a playing field. These days, the 

gardens which face the park are 

enclosed by attractive mature 

hedges of laurel and privet. All 

now provide an attractive green 

backdrop to the park. 

By the late 1950s, it was decided 

that something should be done with 

the land. Officially established by 

the Cardiff Rural District Council and 

Rhiwbina Garden Village Ltd, and 

opened by Mrs Alice Freeborn on 

27th April 1960, Parc-y-Pentre was 

warmly welcomed by members of 

the community. It has since gone 

on to become a firm favourite with 

walkers, dog owners and families 

for over 60 years. A stone plinth 

featuring a plaque, commemorating 

the opening still remains in the park 

to this day. 

Interviewed by Rhiwbina Living in 

2010, ESPN's iconic commentator 

Alan Wilkins recalls visiting the park 

after school with his brother Howard 

to play cricket. The brothers, who 

grew up in the village, considered 

the park to be their home pitch. 

"After school, all the boys used 

to play cricket in the little park 

called Parc-y-Pentre – these were 

absolutely memorable games of 

cricket, played with a tennis ball 

and played with such passion and 

fun. I can still see us all playing 

and imagining ourselves to be the 

great cricketers of the time. Boys’ 

imaginations and a safe green 

environment to play cricket in - it 

didn’t get much better! Parc-y- 

Pentre was our Lord’s Cricket 

Ground!" said Alan. 

It was in June 1960 that the 

Whitchurch Parish Council agreed 

to take over the administration and 

maintenance of the park from the 

Rural District Council, which had 

been responsible for sanitation, 

public health and housing.

The layout of the park was reviewed 

by the Whitchurch Parish Council 

in October 1961. It was felt that 

the land was more of a playing 

field than a park and estimates 

were obtained to find out the cost 

of planting trees and shrubs to 

enhance the area. 

Residents of the Garden Village 

kindly donated some of the trees 

and roses for the park - one 

Cypress tree, two flowering Almond 

trees and 16 climbing Roses. 

Having accepted a quote from 

G. Pudge & Sons Ltd, playground 

equipment was installed the 

following year. The playground 

consisted of a merry-go-round and 

rocking horse. 

It was situated in the south east 

corner of the park, and there is 

evidence of a concrete rectangle, 

which may have been the base for 

the rocking horse. The merry-goround 

and horse were eventually 

removed and new equipment was 

put in its place, including a small 

climbing frame, a spring rider and a 

roundabout. These were situated in 

Dave and 

Nick the sheep 

were frequent 

visitors to 

the park 

the extreme south east of the park 

and has also now been removed. 

The park is renowned for its trees 

and in 1962, the Council approved a 

request from the Rhiwbina Garden 

Village Association to plant a tree 

in Parc-y-Pentre in connection with 

their jubilee celebrations. 

In April 2010, a shrub was 

also planted to mark the 50th 

anniversary of Parc-y-Pentre itself. 

A Cytisus battandieri (Pineapple 

broom) was donated by the 

Rhiwbina Garden Village Residents 

Association, who also organised the 

planting ceremony. 

One of the more familiar sights 

in the park around that time was 

one of Rhiwbina's most famous 

international celebrities - Nick the 

Sheep. 

The superstar sheep was owned 

by resident Dave Palmer, who 

rescued Nick when he was a 

newborn lamb. Dave and Nick 

were frequent visitors to the park 

together and the pair featured 

in international media outlets, 

including a National Geographic TV 

show and the Daily Mail. 

Nick sadly passed away in 2013, 

and a tree and a small memorial in 

the park was unveiled in his honour. 

In more recent times, the park 

has become a central focus for the 

village, and a successful location 

for community events. Since 2017, 

it has become a main arena for the 

Rhiwbina Summer Festival. The 

park is packed with fairground rides, 

stalls and is also the venue for the 

annual Tug-o'-War and the Dog 

Show. The park is also a popular 

place for families and friends to 

share picnics during the warmer 

months. 

Up until this year, there has also 

been an annual Christmas dog 

get-together, where local residents 

and their dogs would meet for a 

Christmas walk and talk. During 

the 2020 pandemic, the park was 

used by locals as a meeting place 

for socially-distanced coffees and 

chats. 

There are now plans to convert 

part of the park into meadowland 

as part of Local Places for Nature 

scheme – a brand-new initiative 

that aims to create, restore and 

Parc-y-Pentre is as 

popular in Winter 

as is it in the 

Summer months 

people local 

The park has more recently been 

used to form the main arena to 

the Rhiwbina Summer Festival 

enhance hundreds of habitats 

across the country. The initiative 

is part of a wider £5m Welsh 

Government 'Local Places for 

Nature' fund, committed to 

acquiring, restoring and enhancing 

nature ‘on your doorstep’. Work is 

planned to start in the Spring of 

2021. There have also been rumours 

that the ageing benches are to be 

replaced over the next few months 

or so. 

Locals will each have their own 

memories of the little park that 

has played such a central role to 

village life over the years. The place 

very much reflects the changing 

of the seasons and whether it's 

enjoying the sun in a deck chair on 

a Summer's afternoon, or wrapping 

up warm with a loved one on a 

crisp Winter's day, residents will 

recall their memories of the place 

with a smile. It will also provide 

memories and enjoyment for those 

generations yet to come. 

The park is accessible via kissing 

gates from Lon Y Dail and Pen-y- 

Dre, as well as a large gate on Lon 

Isa. 

33

DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR SERVICE 

* Broken Glass 

Replacement 

* Misted Glass 

Replacement 

* Faulty/Broken 

Hinges, Locks, Doors, 

Handles 

* Patio Door Problems 

* Draughty/Leaking 

Windows, Doors, 

Conservatories 

* Catflaps, Letterboxes, 

New Door Panels 

* Stained Glass 

Repairs and 

Replacements 

* Glass/mirrors of all 

types cut to size 

* uPVC New 

Windows/ Doors 

Installed 

* Upgrades to Locks 

and Handles 

* Fascias, Guttering, 

Cladding 

* Shop Fronts 

For a free quotation by a reliable, 

competitive company, please feel 

free to get in touch 

UPVC WINDOWS AND 

COMPOSITE DOORS 

Composite doors are 

a great choice if you 

are thinking about 

replacing the doors 

in your home. They 

offer excellent energy 

efficiency and are 

available in a range of 

colours and designs to 

suit your budget. With 

a choice of glazing 

options and styles, 

we are sure to have 

the right door for you. 

Our UPVC windows 

and doors come in a 

range of styles and 

colours and conform 

to insurance standards. 

All new installations 

have an insurance 

backed guarantee. 

Decostains@aol.com 

www.doubleglazingrepairscardiff.co.uk 

Unit 3 Western Business Centre, Robert St, Ely, Cardiff , CF5 5AS 

(formerly of Western Avenue, Llandaff) 

02920 566694 

Bespoke, tailor-made 

legal advice 

Cardiff • Merthyr Tydfil • Nelson 

● Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning 

● Lasting Powers of Attorney 

● Divorce & Separation 

● Buying & Selling Your Property 

JNP Legal 

52 Station Road, 

Llanishen, 

Cardiff. 

CF14 5LU 

02920 763211 

www.jnplegal.org 

law@jnplegal.org

WORRIED 

HEARING? 

HEARING 

WALES

feature 

Work out your 

strengths and 

weaknesses 

Before you attempt to make any 

plans, it is always a good idea to 

figure what you're good at and 

what you're not so good at. 

The reason for this is that you 

can make the most of what 

you're naturally good at while 

minimising the chances of 

failure by understanding what 

you're lacking, and eliminating 

those hazards that would 

otherwise catch you off guard. 

Think about how you can 

improve on those weaknesses. 

Accept difficulty 

Whatever plans you make, there will 

inevitably be disruption, difficulty and 

unexpected stress. A plan will never go as 

expected so remind yourself that difficulty 

and dealing with problems is actually part 

of the plan. 

Accepting this fact will help calm 

your mind and reduce the risk of you 

abandoning your plans either before, or 

during them. It will make you more willing 

to keep on with your goals. 

Avoid black and white 

thinking 

Building on your ability to accept 

that difficulty will occur in your 

plans, it's helpful to develop a 

way of thinking that's adaptable 

to these unexpected obstacles. 

Beautiful things take time and 

you should pursue improvement 

and not perfection. Should a part 

of your plan not go as expected, 

that doesn't mean that the 

whole plan has failed. If you do 

experience a setback, remind 

yourself that this is part of the 

plan and that you can start again. 

Practising this process 

repeatedly will help you build 

resilience, which will stand you in 

good stead in other areas of your 

life. 

Find methods that work 

Whatever your plans are, you are going to want to find methods that make 

you more likely to achieve them. That could mean getting up early in the 

morning and working on your plans if you're more of a morning person, 

or later on in the day if you're more of a night owl. Try out mind-mapping, 

sticky notes or even spreadsheets - whatever works best for you. 

Lists help some types of people too, and taking the time to plan for the 

day ahead the night before also helps others. Find out what works for you 

but don't force yourself into routines that aren't productive or enjoyable for 

you. 

36

The Masterplan 

2020 was the year that none of us were expecting. Planning can only 

be effective if it's done properly and thoroughly. Here's how you can 

plan for a better year ahead, even with unexpected events, in 2021 

Learn from others 

If you want to accelerate your plans, learning 

from others is a great way to eliminate learning 

the hard way. 

Whatever your plans are based around, 

research your field. Find out what others have 

learnt during their processes and what mistakes 

they have made so that you don't have to waste 

time. Seeking out help and advice is not a sign 

of weakness. Instead, it shows a mature way to 

approaching your plan, and getting yourself to a 

basic level of understanding in your chosen field 

is a good foundation from which to work. 

Be tenacious 

Resilience is a key quality to have. 

It'll see you through good times and 

challenging ones - even when your 

plans aren't going the way that you 

want them to. 

When problems do arise, which 

they invariably will, keep in mind 

the overall objective that you are 

working towards. All the smaller 

problems that you are solving will 

help move you slowly but surely 

towards your end goals. 

Have a back up plan 

The one thing that's guaranteed to happen to a plan is that it won't go to 

plan. As watertight as you think you can make it, unforeseen problems are 

the gremlins that will jump up, catch you out, and take up a lot of your time. 

It's therefore prudent to consider back-up plans, plans that you can fall 

back on in a contingency. 

A contingency plan is a plan devised for an outcome other than in the 

usual (expected) plan. The reason you should have one in place is to help 

protect your main plan and to recover it should something go wrong. 

Think about the resources that you're using - what would happen should 

any of these resources suddenly not be available? How would that affect 

your plan? What could you do to get around this problem? Identify what 

potential problems could occur should you not reach any of your deadlines. 

Keeping an open mind that there may be more than one route to your final 

destination will keep you flexible and less stressed because you know that 

you've got your bases covered. 

Set deadlines 

The thought of setting deadlines 

can be scary at first but they do in 

fact, provide both a carrot and a 

stick when it comes to planning. 

Setting aside time to create 

deadlines gives you more of a 

timescale and a vision of what 

you are trying to achieve. It will 

also remind you that whatever 

it is you are planning, that 

everything will have a time and 

a place, which won't make you 

stress that you're not working on 

one part of your plan while you're 

working on the other. 

Deadlines also provide you 

with a sense of urgency when 

needed, giving you that kick up 

the backside that you may need. 

37

Heath Vets: 

Putting pets first 

With practices in Rhiwbina, Heath, 

Danescourt and Cyncoed, Heath Vets 

are putting pets and their owners at 

the heart of their pandemic plans 

In their esteemed 94 year history, 

Heath Vets have successfully 

overcome the challenges of world 

events to continue their care of our 

pets. Yet the current pandemic has 

called for a new way of thinking and 

Heath Vets were quick to adapt to 

the new situation. 

"During the national lockdown in 

the Spring, we stopped all clients 

entering the building," says Clinical 

Director Jess Ellis. "We only saw 

essential and emergency cases. 

Pets ailments were discussed 

outside our surgery but fortunately, 

we had good weather. If that wasn't 

possible, we'd discuss the ailments 

over the phone. 

"For pets that needed to be seen, 

clients waited outside while we took 

the pets inside to examine and treat 

them. These changes, although 

more time consuming and involved 

more man power, enabled us to 

continue providing care to those 

that needed it. Fortunately, we have 

now been able to let clients in, 

under strict conditions, so although 

things aren’t normal, they are a little 

more so!" 

Like most businesses, staffing 

levels were immediately affected by 

the new rules. 

"When the national lockdown was 

first announced, we closed our 

three smaller branches. Staffing 

levels were reduced and about half 

of our team were furloughed for 

quite a few months. We have been 

incredibly lucky in that our team has 

remained fit and well throughout 

but it’s been very hectic running 

at reduced staff capacity - we 

have been very busy as a result!" 

adds Jess. "The team has coped 

fantastically well considering." 

Clients can expect the same high 

level of care and attention from 

Heath Vets, even if the process is 

now a little different. 

Sponsored feature 

"If a pet needs to be seen, clients 

can call any of our branches. 

However phones have been busy, 

so if it’s not an urgent call, an 

appointment can be requested 

online via our website. We are 

hoping to offer online bookings 

very soon, so that clients can book 

appointments at their leisure and 

at a time that suits them – with the 

added bonus that it will hopefully 

free up our phone lines a little! 

"We only allow one person in with 

a pet and we have a time limit in the 

consulting room with the vet. Safety 

rules also have to be adhered to. 

We do this to keep both our team 

and our clients as safe as we can." 

Throughout the Winter, Heath Vets 

will continue to operate within the 

guidelines to ensure safety. 

"We envisage limited access into 

the building during the Winter, 

allowing clients in only when asked 

and numbers permit. During times 

of firebreak and local lockdown, 

we will have to reduce our services 

to essential care, and additional 

restrictions for clients may be in 

place, but where possible, we want 

to offer as normal a service as we 

can to our patients. We will do this 

while keeping both us and our 

clients as safe as possible. 

"Obviously for our clients waiting 

outside, we encourage everyone to 

be on time to reduce any waiting. 

If they have a car, this makes any 

wait more enjoyable 

as they are sheltered 

from the weather!" 

The experience, 

whilst challenging, 

has brought the Heath 

Vets team together. 

"There’s no doubt 

as a team we have 

been through some 

stressful times 

together these last 

months but I think we have all tried 

our best to support one another." 

The pandemic has changed the 

world. It's changed the way we do 

things and it's changed the way 

that businesses have been able to 

provide their services too. 

"Most pet insurance companies are 

being very supportive during these 

difficult times by being flexible on 

policy conditions, in particular the 

requirement for pets to have up 

to date vaccinations and regular 

dental and health checks." 

Looking ahead, Heath Vets 

are taking a realistic but positive 

approach to the Winter months 

ahead. 

"We'd ask our clients to be 

understanding and patient. 

Practices are busy and are 

still playing catch up from the 

restrictions that were placed on 

us earlier in the year; there may 

be a bit more of a wait for routine 

appointments," says Jess. 

"We'd also like our clients to 

understand that we have to adhere 

to strict guidelines by law; our staff 

can feel under a lot of stress at 

times, but we are doing our very 

best. Be kind and we can all get 

through this together." 

02920 621 511 

123-5 Heol-y-Deri, Rhiwbina, 

Cardiff CF14 6UH

pets 

Your pet 

questions 

answered 

Chris Troughton is clinical director of Heath Vets. He’s here to answer all your pet 

questions. If you’d like to ask Chris a pet-related question, drop us a line 

Last Winter, my dog often licked 

her paws when she came back 

from her walks. My husband 

told me that it may be related to 

the salt that the Council spreads 

on the roads and pavements. I 

know that salt in big quantities 

is lethal but should I be worried 

about the amount of salt laid 

down on our walkways? 

For a healthy dog, the amount of 

salt ingested through cleaning 

after a walk as you describe is 

very unlikely to be dangerous, 

but if your dog has heart 

problems and is on medication, 

the extra salt could possibly 

destabilise him. There is also a 

risk that the salt can cause skin 

irritation and dermatitis, so in 

general, it’s best to rinse the feet 

quickly when you return from a 

walk on salted pavements. 

How hardy are cats during the 

colder months? My cat often 

spends lots of time outside 

but I always worry that he’ll be 

getting as cold as I do, and that 

he could get frostbite! 

Healthy cats are very hardy. 

Their coat is dense enough 

to keep out most of the rain, 

although they do seem to hate 

the wet, and it’s pretty good 

insulation too. I’ve never seen 

a cat suffering ill effects from 

the cold unless it has been 

otherwise ill or injured, so please 

don’t worry. However, do make 

sure he is able to get back into 

the house when he wants to, or 

provide a sheltered place in the 

garage or shed with a blanket for 

him to cwtch up if he wishes. 

Are there any direct health 

benefits of neutering or spaying 

a pet? 

The short answer is yes. Many 

studies have shown that 

neutered dogs and cats live 

longer than their un-neutered 

friends. Neutering stops the 

sex drive so reduces roaming 

(in search of a mate) which is 

both antisocial, as far as humans 

are concerned, and dangerous 

in that roaming pets are often 

involved in traffic accidents. 

It also prevents unplanned 

pregnancies which are 

potentially dangerous and result 

in puppies and kittens for which 

good homes need to be found. 

Neutering protects against some 

cancers, but slightly increases 

the risk of others. However, a 

couple of studies have looked 

at this and found that although 

neutered animals tend to get 

more cancer, they also tend to 

live longer overall. There are 

downsides to neutering as well, 

such as an increased tendency 

to put on weight and increased 

risk for bitches to get urinary 

incontinence. Some of these 

problems are more prevalent in 

some breeds, and the age for 

neutering is also a factor. The 

best plan is to discuss this with 

your vet who will be able to give 

you specific advice for your own 

pet. 

Are dog coats a necessity or 

simply a fashion statement? 

I have a greyhound and he 

doesn’t seem to have much 

body fat on him to keep him 

warm. I’ve even heard of dog 

boots. Are these really needed? 

Some dogs, like your greyhound, 

have a very thin hair covering 

and very little fat and a coat 

in bad weather will certainly 

be more pleasant for them. 

Similarly, elderly or poorly dogs 

can feel the cold more and will 

appreciate the extra warmth. 

However, the majority of dogs 

who wear coats don’t really 

need them but the coat helps to 

stop them getting dirty and wet, 

making life much easier for the 

owners when they get home! 

Yes, they can be ‘fashion 

statements’ and some owners 

love to see their pets as little 

people. There’s nothing wrong 

with that – it doesn’t harm the 

dog! 

Quite a lot of elderly dogs 

suffer with mobility problems, 

and they often drag their feet 

and damage their toes as a 

result; boots are very useful in 

preventing this. They are also 

helpful in protecting wounds 

and sores while they heal, and 

stopping bandages from getting 

wet. Additionally, some dogs 

with very furry feet get balls of 

snow forming between the pads 

on Winter walks, and this can 

be quite uncomfortable; boots 

prevent this too. 

Rhiwbina 

02920 621 511 

123-5 Heol-y-Deri, Rhiwbina, 

Cardiff CF14 6UH 

Danescourt 

02920 564 626 

Llantrisant Road Retail Park, 

Llantrisant Road, 

Cardiff CF5 2BF 

Sponsored feature

Ancient 

and 

Modern 

The Our local area is bursting with 

hidden history. Here are some of 

our local gems for you to discover 

Treoda Castle Mound 

Treoda Castle mound marks 

the site of a medieval castle at 

Whitchurch, probably built in the 

13th century. 

It was built on an area of land 

known as Treoda. Today, this 

area is known as Clos Treoda 

which is on Old Church Road, at 

the rear of the Fox and Hounds 

public house. On a map of 

Whitchurch in 1880, the circular 

Tumulus can be seen on the 

area known as Treoda. 

Whitchurch itself draws its 

name from White Church. The 

first mention of the area was in 

1126 when the land was granted 

to Llandaff Cathedral and a 

chapel was built where Old 

Church Road now stands. 

Llwynda-Ddu Camp 

Also known as Llwynda-Ddu 

Hillfort, this camp is a small Iron 

Age earthwork in Pentyrch. The 

site is a scheduled monument, 

described as a prehistoric, 

defensive hillfort. 

The camp probably comprised 

of two ramparts with ditches 

but much of the outer ring has 

been destroyed. The entrance 

is a straight causeway which 

interrupts the inner and outer 

rings. 

The camp probably dates to 

the Iron Age period (c. 800 BC 

- AD 74, the Roman conquest 

of Wales). It is located on the 

west end of a small hill top. It 

has been suggested that the 

camp belonged to the Silures, 

a powerful people of ancient 

Britain, occupying much of 

southeastern Wales. 

Old Bishop's Palace 

The Bishop's Palace is the 

ruined residence of the former 

bishops of Llandaff. 

It is thought that the Palace 

was attacked and subsequently 

damaged by Owain Glyndŵr 

in the rebellion of 1402–05. 

As a result, the building was 

abandoned and bishops did not 

return to live near their cathedral 

again until 1850. 

The architecture of the 

surviving gatehouse is similar 

to that of Caerphilly Castle, 

which suggests that the same 

master mason worked on 

both fortifications. This would 

therefore date the Palace to the 

time of William de Braose, who 

became Bishop of Llandaff in 

1266. 

The Palace is now Grade 1 

listed. 

40 

Reproduced with the permission 

of the National Library of Scotland

Wenallt Camp 

Wenallt Camp, also known as 

Wenallt Enclosure, is an Iron Age 

enclosure on the southern slope 

of Wenallt Hill near Rhiwbina 

and is classed as a scheduled 

monument. 

The rough oval-shaped 

enclosure is located in woodland, 

on ground falling away to the 

south. It measures about 57m 

north-south by 40m, defined 

by a bank and ditch, having a 

south-east facing entrance. 

The rampart shows traces of an 

external stone revetment. 

The site would have given 

extensive views across the Cardiff 

area and also over the Bristol 

Channel, and is sometimes 

classified as a hillfort. 

history 

Caerau Hillfort 

This hillfort is a large Iron Age hillfort, 

built on a previously occupied Neolithic 

site. It occupies the western tip of an 

extensive ridge-top plateau in the 

western suburbs of Caerau and Ely. 

It is one of the largest Iron Age sites of 

its type in Great Britain. 

Nearby St Mary's Church dates from 

the 13th century and now stands in 

ruins. The site featured in Channel 4's 

Time Team show in 2012. 

Morgraig Castle 

The ruins of this castle are 

located close to the border 

between the counties of 

Caerphilly and Cardiff. It 

was built after 1243, but 

before 1267. 

Excavation of the site 

began in 1903 and the 

lack of roofing materials 

or internal buildings found 

at the site suggests that 

the castle was never 

completed or occupied. 

After the nearby 

Caerphilly Castle was burned down in October 1269 by Llewellyn the 

Last, it is likely that Morgraig Castle was abandoned due to its lack of 

strategic importance to Gilbert de Clare. Much of the stonework of the 

castle was likely to have been re-purposed at Caerphilly Castle, which 

had to be rebuilt. 

Morganstown Castle 

Mound 

The monument consists of the 

remains of a motte and ditch, dating 

back to between 1066 and 1540. 

The motte stands about 4m high 

with steep sides and a flat top 

that measures around 14 metres 

in diameter. The ditch around the 

mound varies in depth around its 

perimeter. 

A low-lying motte lies nearby, 

known as Ty Nant Motte. 

The Preaching Cross at 

Llandaff Cathedral 

The Cross is medieval in its origin, 

possibly 13th century. According 

to tradition, Archbishop Baldwin of 

Canterbury preached in front of the 

cross in support of the Third Crusade 

on his journey through Wales in 1188. 

He was accompanied by Giraldus 

Cambrensis (Gerald of Wales). 

The cross was restored with the 

cross-head turned through 90 

degrees in 1897 as a part of the 

Diamond Jubilee celebrations 

for Queen Victoria. It is located at 

Llandaff Cathedral. 

Rhiwbina Twmpath 

Situated near the bottom of the 

Wenallt lies what is probably the 

biggest historical monument in 

Rhiwbina today. 

The Twmpath is a late 11th 

century Norman motte and is 

shrouded in legend and lore. 

Historically, the Twmpath’s 

enduring story centres around 

Iestyn ap Gwrgant, then King of 

Glamorgan, and his downfall. 

The Twmpath would have 

commanded good views of the 

area in its day. It can be found off 

Wenallt Road, a hundred yards or 

so south of the bridge crossing 

the M4, and a hundred yards or 

so west of Wenallt Road. You 

can still see the ditch around the 

Twmpath, but there are no visible 

signs of any other buildings. 

The bailey of the Twmpath still 

stands an impressive 30 feet 

high, although it is somewhat 

overgrown these days.

Home Support 

DIRTY DRIVEWAY, 

DECK, PATIO OR 

PAVING? 

Like everything else about the 

house, from time to time your 

driveway, deck, patio or paving 

will benefit from a really good, 

professional clean… 

You’ll 

be amazed 

at the 

difference 

After 

FREE 

NO-OBLIGATION 

QUOTATIONS 

Before 

We’re here to help loved ones 

in self-isolation stay safe and 

well at home. 

To find out more, call us on: 

02920 569483 

Or visit: www.homeinstead.co.uk/cardiff 

Visit our website for more information 

and customer testimonials 

Tel: 02920 700571 / 07767 310618 

Email info@valejetclean.co.uk 

www.ValeJetClean.co.uk 

Specialist Glaziers with over 35 Years Experience 

Repairs & Renewals 

Experts in the repair of windows, doors and conservatories 

uPVC Products 

We offer a full range of quality replacement uPVC products 

Mirrors & Processed Glass 

Mirrors, glass (standard, safety, greenhouse & picture) 

Secondary Glazing 

A less costly option to reduce noise & heat loss 

Unit 4 St Catherine’s Park, Pengam Road, Cardiff CF24 2TY 

029 2048 6797 

contact@wrightglass.co.uk www.wrightglass.co.uk 

Rated 4.9/5 over 94 reviews (October 2020)

WORRY 

NOT! 

There is a service that helps people pay their 

care home fees without selling their homes 

THE CARE & HOME 

INHERITANCE PLAN 

SIMPLY CALL US ON 

02921 510 150 

PROVIDED BY SHAW LIFETIME CARE 

www.shawlifetimecare.co.uk 

We welcome NHS and Private Patients 

Welsh Eye Care Service (WECS) 

accredited 

Low Vision Service accredited 

On site Spectacle Laboratory 

Award winning Optician 

Family business 

Wide range of spectacle frames 

and contact lenses 

Varilux specialist 

Quality Eyecare in the Heart of 

Rhiwbina Village 

3a Beulah Road, Rhiwbina, 

Cardiff CF14 6LT 029 2061 1283 

67 Thornhill Rd 

Llanishen 

Cardiff 

CF14 6PE 

Order your medicines 

quickly using the 

Remedi app. Scan the 

code on your phone for 

fast, easy ordering 

Weekdays 8.30am-6pm 

Closed 1pm-1.30pm 

Saturdays 9am-12 noon 

Lipotrim Weight Loss Programme 

www.lipotrim.com and www.insyncpharmacy.co.uk 

Please call in to get started today 

Pharmacy only programme 

20% off 

Throughout January and February 

Choose Pharmacy 

Do you need to see a 

doctor today? 

Your Community Pharmacist can 

provide free confidential NHS advice 

and treatment without you having to 

make an appointment with a GP 

Please drop in to see us or call 

02920 755682 / 0800 9883003 

or visit our website 

www.insync-pharmacy.co.uk 

to see how we can help

Beulah Road 1963 

Heol-y-Bont 1983 

Lady Aileen Fox, 

Heol Wen, 1947 

Rhiwbina Hill 1947 

44

Winter 

scenes 

As we hunker down for the Winter season, here are some 

memories of the village from times gone by 

Lon y Dail 1985 

Pen-y-Dre 1960s 

Beulah Road 1947 

Heol-y-Deri 1947 

Y Groes 1985

history 

The Exchange 

Michael Clemitson charts the history of Rhiwbina's telephone service 

The telephone and much of the 

internet service for the Whitchurch, 

Rhiwbina, Heath and Birchgrove 

areas comes from the ‘Whitchurch’ 

telephone exchange in Manor 

Way. It's easily identifiable from the 

variety of aerials on its roof, and the 

occasional BT or Openreach van 

parked outside. 

But older residents may remember 

a Rhiwbina telephone exchange in 

the 1950s - what happened to it, 

and where was it ? 

The telephone was invented by 

Alexander Graham Bell in 1876, 

and by the early years of the last 

century, the telephone service was 

available in most parts of Britain. 

In those days, calls were 

connected on an entirely manual 

basis by the operator. From the 

1920s, and possibly earlier, the 

telephone service for Whitchurch 

was provided from a manually 

operated exchange on Old Church 

Road, not far from the main 

crossroads in Whitchurch village 

(and just around the corner from 

the old Rialto cinema - but that’s 

another story). 

The former exchange building still 

exists as domestic premises, and 

technically minded readers would 

notice the stretch of five BT footway 

boxes of various ages outside it, 

to cater for the extensive cabling 

involved. 

By 1931, there were over 600 lines, 

and by the outbreak of war, just 

over 1,200 lines. There was further 

expansion after the war, and by 1951 

the exchange, now with over 1,900 

lines, was approaching exhaustion, 

with little scope for expansion. It 

was necessary to open a ‘relief’ 

exchange, and this was installed 

in the ‘The Pines’, an old Georgian 

building off Ty’n-y-Pwll Road, within 

convenient cabling distance. 

It was decided to serve the 

subscribers in the Rhiwbina area 

from it. This was done in most cases 

without a number change - so on 

15th September 1951, the Rhiwbina 

Hardware Company on Beulah 

Road, for example, which had been 

Whitchurch 553, became instead 

Rhiwbina 553. 

Telephone usage continued to 

increase, and by the end of the 

decade, there were over 2,000 lines 

in the Rhiwbina area. By this stage, 

the new automatic exchange in 

Manor Way was ready for service. 

The lines on the two manual 

exchanges were transferred in 

stages, with the lines from Rhiwbina 

being transferred first. 

On Tuesday, 1st December 1959, 

the 2,600 lines were connected 

to the new exchange, as ‘Cardiff’ 

numbers beginning with 6, - and 

the Rhiwbina exchange closed. 

The lines on Whitchurch were 

transferred in a second stage 

the following month in January 

1960. The South Wales Echo of 

the day reported that the 30 or so 

telephonists from the two manual 

exchanges would be able to take 

up positions in the main Cardiff 

exchange in the city centre. 

After the closure of Rhiwbina 

exchange, subsequent plans to 

use it as a Sports & Social Club met 

local objections, and The Pines, 

a Grade 2 listed building situated 

alongside St Mary’s old churchyard, 

has had a number of different uses. 

In 2010, it became the Rhiwbina 

Dental Surgery after an extensive 

programme of restoration, including 

landscaping its walled gardens. 

Sheltering in one corner amongst 

the trees is a traditional red 

telephone box, recognisant of its 

former use as Rhiwbina’s telephone 

exchange. 

Acknowledgement - thanks indeed 

to BT Archives, the research staff 

in Cathays Library, and the many 

readers who replied to my letter on 

this topic in the Summer edition. 

~ 

47

lifestyle 

Winter 

Garden 

In these uncertain times, the 

garden can often be used as a 

place of sanctuary. Here are a 

few ideas to make the most of it 

during the colder months 

48 

Lighting 

Without lighting, your garden 

can become an unwelcoming 

and dull place and as the 

evening-fall gets earlier by the 

week, you're going to want to 

introduce warm areas to your 

garden. 

Fairy lights are a welcome start 

but as Autumn rolls into Winter, 

it's best to look for something 

that will last. Wall lights can 

add a distinct ambience to your 

outdoor space but uplighting 

your trees and bushes also 

opens your space upwards. 

Use lighting sparingly but 

carefully to add subtle shadows 

and contrasts. There's no 

reason why your outdoor space 

can't become an extension of 

your indoor space. 

Music 

As Shakespeare once said, 'If 

music be the food of love, play on.' 

Music helps add atmosphere 

to any event. Traditionally, radios 

would be used to provide some 

ambience in the garden but these 

days, electronic devices like 

Amazon Echo allow us to play 

music of our own choosing. 

Additionally, you can create 

your own playlists and ideally, 

you'll want something low-key, 

something that won't distract from 

the flow of conversation or to 

disturb your neighbours too much. 

You may even want to recreate 

a campsite scenario with a fire 

pit, a guitar and a harmonica. 

Just remember to bring the 

marshmallows. 

Cosy blankets 

There's something very 

comforting about snuggling 

under a heavy blanket. As the 

warm evenings of Summer 

mellow into crisp Autumn nights, 

a blanket is the perfect friend to 

cwtch up to so that you can still 

enjoy the fresh air. 

There is a wide range of 

outdoor blankets these days, 

ranging from blankets that you 

wear through to family-sized 

blankets. A fleece lining is 

recommended and if you don't 

have any shelter to sit under in 

the event of a passing shower, 

you'll want to look at getting 

something that's waterproof. 

If you're having guests over, 

either provide them with a 

blanket or ask them to bring 

their own.

Gazebos 

Perfect for dining and relaxing under during those hot sunny days, 

gazebos are also the place to take shelter and refuge during the 

colder times of the year. If you've got the money, a permanent fixture 

in the garden will pay dividends all year round but less expensive 

options are available in the form of pop up versions. Most are 

waterproof but as they're often made of lightweight aluminium, you 

may need to weight them down with sandbags, especially if you're 

out during windy Winter nights. 

Food 

Barbecuing isn't just for Summer! 

If 2020 has taught us anything, it's 

that we may have to start doing 

things a little differently. 

If you’ve hibernated enough and 

fancy blowing the cobwebs away, 

wrap yourself up in a heavy coat 

and uncover the grill for a flamelicked 

meal for the family. 

A couple of Winter grilling hints 

though: use a gas grill if you can. 

Keeping a charcoal grill a constant 

temperature in colder, windier 

weather can be a challenge. Make 

sure too that your gloves are heat 

resistant barbecue gloves. Woollen 

gloves may singe or even catch 

fire. Lastly, ensure that you have 

adequate lighting when cooking 

so that you can keep an eye on the 

food. 

A different season calls for 

different recipes and you may want 

to try out new things. Pineapple in 

a brown sugar and cinnamon glaze 

will make you feel summery and 

wintery at the same time. 

In addition to your traditional 

meats, try out vegetables like 

cubed butternut squash or kale 

that's been dipped in olive oil and 

sprinkled with salt and pepper. 

Carrots are also delicious when 

wrapped in foil and baked over a 

grill for about 20 minutes. 

Beverages 

Nothing quite takes the edge off a 

Winter chill better than a hot drink. 

Alcoholic drinks can feel like 

they are warming you up but they 

actually lower your core body 

temperature so you may want to 

stick to non-alcoholic ones. 

Hot chocolate is a great go-to 

but treats like hot apple punch 

(flavoured with warming cinnamon 

and cloves) or hot mint tea are both 

warming and healthier. You can 

prepare your drinks beforehand 

but there's nothing better than 

warming them over an open fire 

pit. 

If you're outside over the festive 

season, it'd be rude not to treat 

yourself and loved ones to some 

warm mulled wine. 

Heaters 

One of the main concerns about 

enjoying your outside space 

during the Winter months is the 

fact that the temperatures drop 

pretty rapidly, especially when 

the sun goes down. 

No fear though as outdoor 

heaters can keep you toasty all 

year round. There are several 

different types, including gas 

and infrared. Great advances in 

technology have also opened 

up the market to heaters that 

can safely be used even under a 

covered patio. 

Fire pits 

A more natural way to keep warm 

is to use a fire pit. From cast-iron 

tubs to clay chimineas, a crackling 

fire pit can also provide a focal 

point for your outdoor gatherings. 

A traditional fire pit allows you 

to build larger fires and provides 

uninterrupted view of the flames 

whereas a chiminea only has a 

small window. Because of their 

structure though, chimineas 

often retain their heat better, 

and give off less smoke thanks 

to their chimney. If you're safetyconscious, 

chimineas are 

considered less risky due to the 

containment of the flames. Space 

is also a consideration as traditional 

fire pits work better in larger 

gardens. 

49

Providing full tree, grounds 

and estate maintenance and 

landscaping services. 

We’re very proud of what we do for our clients and like most 

people who work in nature we spend a lot of time on our 

knees in one way or another. This is always humbling. 

Now, whether you call it humility or respect or admiration 

for nature, if you’re looking to work with a company that 

cares about these things TR33 could be what you’re after. 

For a free no obligation quote please contact 

0800 298 3686 I info@tr33.co.uk 

www.tr33.co.uk 

Vibrant 

Gardens 

• Regular lawn mowing 

• Professional garden maintenance 

• Lawn feed, weed and moss control 

• Hard surface jet washing 

• Scarification and power raking 

• Hedge and shrub pruning 

• Driveway weed and moss control 

Regular Mowing 

& Gardening Service 

Everything you 

need to have that 

well-manicured 

garden 

Call Stuart on 07779 132149 for a free quote 

www.vibrant-gardens.co.uk 

House Clearances 

2nd 

time around 

2nd Time Around 

specialise in 

house clearance 

We provide a professional and 

friendly service for full or part 

clearance, attics to cellars. 

We also offer the following services: 

• Reports for probate purposes 

• Valuations & advice on selling at auction 

• Auction service 

• Cleaning service 

• Sympathetic handling of deceased’s estates 

• Small removals & deliveries, nationwide 

• Rubbish removal 

• Recycling 

We comply with current legislation; we are waste 

management registered and have public liability insurance. 

House Clearance Specialists 

www.houseclearancecardiff.com 

Contact: Jan Richards 

T: 02920 692704 M: 07715 622406 

E: janrichards4@hotmail.co.uk 

W: www.houseclearancecardiff.com 

Freeview aerials 

Freesat & SKY dishes 

AccurateAerials 

WIFI 

CCTV 

improving reception since 1979 

Professionally installed 

by your local and experienced 

NVQ 2 Qualified Engineer 

For the design, supply and installation 

of aerial, satellite and internet TV services, 

call your local Registered Digital 

Installer (RDI) 

Mark Jones 

07836 265259 

18 Twyn y Fedwen, Whitchurch, Cardiff CF14 1HU 

www.accurateaerials.com 

info@accurateaerials.com 

ID: 18266724

DON 1 T LEAVE YOUR FUTURE TO CHANCE 

WILLS & PROBATE 

SPECIALISTS 

The importance of making a Will 

None of us know what is around the corner, but by making a Will, you are prepared for whatever 

the future holds. It is important to take the time to sit and reflect on who receives your estate. By 

doing this, you are retaining the control and not allowing the law to decide. 

Preparing your Will 

It is important to bear in mind the cost of preparing a properly drafted Will with expert legal 

advice. This often outweighs the cost of dealing with any disputes arising from Wills that have 

been made without proper advice, or disputes arising where no Will has been made. 

Once the Will is signed, it is paramount that the original is kept safe. We are able to offer storage 

of the original Will free of charge and provide you with a copy to share with your executor(s). 

Next Steps... 

To arrange your free consultation, call us on 02922 676818 quoting 'WILLSOCT' or simply pop in to 

chat to one of our experienced team. 

A Standard Will is available for £175+VAT* 

*More detailed Wills can incur an additional charge 

02922 676818 I 13 Merthyr Road, Cardiff I info@hevans.com I hardingevans.com 

f

Winter 

Warmers 

The simplicity and delight of slow cooking is best savoured shut 

away from the world on a cold Winter's night. Here are our favourites 

Slow-cooked 

pork, cider & 

herb hotpot 

4 tbsp olive oil, plus a little extra 

1 kg diced pork shoulder 

20g butter, cubed, plus a little extra 

4 leeks, trimmed and thickly sliced 

4 garlic cloves, crushed 

3 tbsp plain flour 

500ml dry cider 

400ml chicken stock 

2 bay leaves 

½ small bunch parsley, finely 

chopped 

small bunch sage, leaves picked, 5 

left whole, the rest chopped 

200ml single cream 

400g Maris Piper or King Edward 

potatoes 

400g sweet potatoes 

☐ Heat half of the oil in a deep 

ovenproof pan, or a flameproof 

casserole dish. Fry the pork pieces 

over a medium high heat in batches 

until they are seared all over. Add 

another 1 tbsp oil to the pan, if 

required. When ready, transfer the 

pork pieces to a plate and set aside. 

☐ Add another 1 tbsp oil to the pan 

with a little butter and fry half the 

leeks with a pinch of salt for 10 mins 

until tender. Add the garlic, fry for a 

minute, then stir in the flour. 

☐ Pour in the cider, a little at a time, 

stirring to pick up any bits stuck 

52 

to the bottom of the pan and to 

combine everything. Add the stock, 

bay leaves and seared pork, then 

simmer, half-covered with a lid 

for 1-1½ hrs until the meat is just 

tender (it will later cook to the point 

of falling apart in the oven). Can be 

prepared a day ahead. 

☐ Heat the oven to 200°C/180°C 

fan/gas 6. Simmer uncovered for a 

few minutes to reduce the sauce, 

if you need to – it shouldn’t be too 

liquidy or the potatoes will sink 

into the sauce. Stir in the parsley, 

chopped sage, remaining leeks, 

and the cream, then season well. 

☐ Peel both types of potatoes and 

cut into slices 2mm thick, by hand 

or using a mandoline. Alternate 

layers of potato and sweet potato 

in circles over the pie, or randomly, 

if you prefer. Dot the cubed butter 

over the top and bake for 1-1½ hrs 

until the potato is tender. Nestle in 

the whole sage leaves, brushed in a 

little oil, for the last 10 mins. Leave 

to rest for 10 mins before serving.

Onion soup 

with cheese 

on toast 

topping 

2 sprays of olive oil spray 

1kg onions, peeled and finely sliced 

1 tsp brown sugar 

3 cloves garlic, crushed 

1 tbsp flour 

150ml white wine 

1 beef stock cube 

4 slices sourdough bread 

75g half-fat cheddar, grated 

2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped to serve 

☐ Spray a large saucepan with 

the olive oil and add the onions 

and brown sugar. Cook over a low 

heat for 20 minutes until sticky and 

caramelised. 

☐ Add the garlic and cook for 

another minute, before stirring 

in the flour. Pour in the wine and 

bubble for 2-3 minutes until the 

alcohol has evaporated. Sprinkle in 

Goulash and 

gnocchi 

3 tbsp plain flour 

3 tbsp paprika 

1½kg chuck or blade steak, cut into 

5cm pieces 

500g onions, sliced 

3 garlic cloves, sliced 

1 red chilli, finely chopped 

2 tbsp tomato purée 

125ml red wine vinegar 

500ml beef stock 

400g tin chopped tomatoes 

the stock cube, then pour in 1 litre 

of cold water. 

☐ Stir well to combine all the 

ingredients, then bring to the boil. 

Simmer for 20 minutes until the 

soup has thickened and reduced 

slightly. 

☐ Meanwhile, prepare the topping. 

Trim the bread so it will fit snugly 

on the top of each serving bowl. 

Preheat the grill to high and toast 

the bread on one side until golden 

brown. 

2 bay leaves 

2 strips of lemon peel 

500g gnocchi 

1 tbsp olive oil 

1 tsp unsalted butter 

250g button mushrooms, sliced 

2 tbsp flat-leaf parsley, chopped 

1 tsp soured cream 

1 pinch paprika 

☐ Preheat the oven to 160°C/gas 

mark 3. Put the flour and 1 tbsp of 

the paprika in a bowl, season, and 

stir to combine. Add the steak and 

toss to coat, then shake off the 

excess flour and place in a large 

casserole dish. 

food 

☐ Once the soup is ready, ladle 

into heatproof bowls. Top with the 

bread, toasted side down, then 

sprinkle over the cheese, making 

sure the bowl is completely 

covered. Finally, add a few drops 

of Worcestershire sauce and place 

under the grill until the cheese is 

golden and bubbling. Serve with a 

sprinkling of fresh parsley. 

☐ Add the onion, garlic, chilli, 

tomato purée, vinegar, stock, 

tomatoes, bay leaves, lemon peel 

and remaining paprika. Bring to 

the boil over a medium heat, then 

cover the dish and transfer to the 

oven. Cook for 3 hours. 

☐ To finish, cook the gnocchi 

according to the packet 

instructions. Heat the oil and butter 

in a frying pan over a medium heat 

and cook the mushrooms for 3-5 

minutes. Stir into the goulash and 

scatter with parsley, then serve 

with the gnocchi and soured 

cream, sprinkled with a touch of 

paprika. 

53

A Christmas Tale 

Mary Willmott buttoned up her coat 

and stepped out into the freezing 

dusk. 

"Oo, it's a cold one tonight," said 

Maggie, walking alongside Mary. 

Maggie pulled her coat tight around 

her neck and linked arms with Mary 

to keep warm. 

The pair had just finished another 

long shift at the Heath Hospital's 

Intensive Care ward. It had been 

a punishing month, just like the 

month before, and the month 

before that. 

They made their way briskly to the 

car park, steam rising above their 

heads from their faces. The sun was 

fading quickly and the cold night air 

was seeping into all the nooks and 

crannies of the hospital grounds. 

"It doesn't feel like Christmas Eve 

does it?" said Mary. 

"No. It's been a funny old day," 

replied Maggie. 

"It's been a funny old year!" 

A few minutes later, in the 

gathering gloom, Mary's car made 

its way past the fuzzy red lights 

of the hospital's chimney. The car 

headed out, away from the blurred 

glare of the hospital lights and out 

into the foggy, frozen suburbs. 

"I need this coming fortnight off so 

much," said Mary, lifting her hand 

to the air vents to see if the heaters 

had warmed up. 

54 

"I bet," replied Maggie. "It'll be hard 

on your own, especially as this will 

be your first Christmas without Jack." 

"Yeah. I know," mumbled Mary 

quietly. Although the thought of 

her first Christmas without her late 

husband had frightened her, she 

had decided to do the best that she 

could. 

"Jack always got everything ready 

for Christmas," mused Mary. "I 

haven't even got a tree this year! 

Might be a bit too late. I'll be ok. It'll 

just me and Milly. Don't know what 

I'd do without that cat." 

A short while later, the car turned 

into Maggie's street and pulled up 

outside her house. 

Mary peered out into the mist. 

"Your house looks so lovely," she 

said. 

"Are you sure you're going to be 

ok?" asked Maggie. "I'm worried 

about you." 

"I'll be fine. I'm going to pop into 

the village now and see if I can 

get some bits and bobs before the 

shops close. Are you all set?" 

"I am. I do need to quickly pop out 

to drop some things to a friend. 

Then I'm home and on the Baileys." 

"Ah! The Baileys! I need to get 

some of that too! Have a lovely 

Christmas Maggie," said Mary, and 

leaned over to give Maggie a big 

hug. They clung tight together for 

a few seconds. It was the first hug 

that Mary had had in months. Then 

Maggie stepped out of the car and 

made her way up the garden path 

to her front door. 

Mary was so tired that she 

considered heading directly home 

and going straight to bed. But she 

knew that none of the shops would 

be open in the morning. Just half an 

hour more and she'd be home, she 

told herself. 

After a short drive, Mary parked her 

car in the village where the glow of 

the shop lights gave her hope. 

First she had to head to John the 

Butchers. John had been a family 

friend for years and after hearing 

the sad news about Jack, he'd told 

Mary that he'd keep a turkey back 

for her this year. 

She dashed over the road and 

into the butcher's where an older 

gentleman was mopping the floor. 

There was an overwhelming smell 

of disinfectant. 

"Is John here?" asked Mary. 

The man looked up, a little 

startled. "No love. He's out on a 

delivery." 

Mary looked at the counter. 

It was completely empty and a 

younger man was leaning over, 

reaching inside to wipe it down with 

a cloth. 

"Looks like you're all out of

turkeys," said Mary. 

"We're all out of everything, I'm 

sorry love. Did you pre-order?" 

"No. It's ok. Don't worry. I've got 

something in my freezer. That'll 

have to do." 

"I'm sorry lovely," said the man. 

"We've literally got nothing left to 

sell to you." 

Mary stepped back out into the 

night and glanced over the road to 

the greengrocers. The doors were 

still open and the lights were still on 

so she dashed back over the road 

and went straight in. 

The shop was empty, apart from 

a woman who was stacking empty 

boxes. Mary scanned the shop. 

Most of the shelves were bare. She 

looked closer at the carrots. 

"These veggies look a bit sorry for 

themselves," she said. 

The woman turned to face Mary. 

"We've been flat out all day. That's 

all we've got left I'm afraid." 

Mary sighed before picking up an 

empty basket and tossing a few 

limp vegetables in. 

She didn't have a turkey but at 

least she had a few vegetables. 

She'd get by, like she said she 

would. 

After she had left, she was about 

to make for the car when she 

suddenly realised that she still 

didn't have a tree. 

"Oh God. The tree!" she yelled. 

Panicked, she hopped around the 

corner to the small garden shop but 

was suddenly faced with the large 

wooden gates, locked together with 

a heavy padlock. She rattled the 

cold gates. 

"Terry!? Are you still in there?" 

There was silence, followed by a 

voice behind her. 

"No. Terry locked up and left about 

half hour ago." 

Mary spun around to see Julie, the 

shop assistant there. 

"So no tree either?" 

By now, it was clear that she had 

left everything too late. She'd make 

do. It was never going to be a real 

Christmas without Jack anyway but 

it would have been nice to at least 

have a few comforts. 

This time next year, she said to 

herself, she'll get organised and do 

it properly. 

To cheer herself up, she decided 

to get a bottle of Baileys from the 

off-licence and drown her sorrows 

in front of the TV. 

"The Baileys sold out yesterday," 

muttered the shop worker. 

"Someone came in and bought the 

last ten bottles we had." 

Mary's face fell. She paid for a 

bottle of red wine and headed back 

to her car. 

She made her way home through 

the slow, smoky streets and finally 

turned into her cul-de-sac. Home 

at last. 

Outside her house was a group of 

what looked like carol singers. The 

last thing she needed! 

Yet as she got closer, she spotted 

Maggie in the group, waving 

frantically. 

Mary parked up, got out into the 

cold evening air and locked her car. 

"Merry Christmas!" shouted 

Maggie. 

"What are you doing here?" asked 

Mary. 

"We're here to give you something 

back." 

"Who's we?" 

"Hi Mary," came a voice from the 

dark. Mary peered at the man. It was 

John, the butcher. In his hands, he 

was carrying a large box, adorned 

with tinsel. And inside, underneath 

the packaging, was a large turkey. 

"Glad you're here. We were getting 

cold! This is for you," he said. Mary's 

heart wanted to burst. 

"That is so kind. Thank you!" 

She looked around. There was 

Jan, who she recognised from 

the greengrocers. She too was 

carrying a box, this one full of fresh 

vegetables. 

"We kept you back some of our 

nicer vegetables as we know they 

all go on Christmas Eve." 

Maggie was so excited. 

"I got you some bottles of Baileys 

too," added Maggie. "We had the 

last ones in the off-licence. There 

are five bottles in there," said 

Maggie. "I got five for myself too! 

They should see us through until 

we're back on shift together." 

Mary graciously took the box 

with a smile, her eyes filling with 

emotion. "Thank you so much." 

"There's a box there with 

chocolates and even a bag of 

Christmas treats for Milly. It's the 

least we could do," added Maggie. 

Just then came the roar of an 

engine and up the road came a van 

that screeched to a halt alongside 

the group. 

The door flung open and out 

stepped Terry. 

"Ho, ho, ho! Merry Christmas 

everyone!" he bellowed. He 

disappeared around the back of the 

van and flung open the doors. Then, 

with one swift movement, he lifted 

out a small fir Christmas tree and 

brought it to Mary. 

"Merry Christmas, Mary!" he said 

beaming. "I kept this one back for 

you. I think it should fit your window 

perfectly. Not too big." 

short story 

Mary was overwhelmed. A turkey. 

Vegetables. Drink. And now a tree. 

Even Milly had something. 

"You always put yourself last so 

this year, we're putting you first," 

said Maggie. 

"Especially after you looked after 

my mum when she was in hospital 

in the Spring," said John. "We'll never 

forget that. Thank you." 

"It was a team effort," said Mary. "It 

always is." 

"Well so is this," said Maggie. 

"It was Maggie's idea though," 

added Jan. 

"I'd love to invite you all in to help 

me but I'm not sure that's allowed," 

said Mary. "Mark Drakeford will be 

down here to tell us off." 

"You'd best get in," said John. "It's 

cold out here. We'll quickly pop the 

stuff in the house. Then I suggest 

you get in the warm and lock 

yourself away from the world," he 

added. 

"Oh wait! I nearly forgot," said 

Maggie. "We've got you something 

else!" She went to her car and took 

out a large fur blanket. 

"We've bought you one of these 

too," holding out the blanket. "It's not 

real fur. No animals were harmed in 

the making of this blanket. And it's 

electric too. You'll love it." 

Several hours later, as the frosty 

night settled on the village, Mary 

sat snuggled under her blanket. 

Milly was cwtched up too, fast 

asleep, her belly full of treats. A half 

glass of Baileys sat nestled among 

the empty chocolate wrappers on 

the coffee table in front of them. 

Mary's tree sat glowing silently 

in the corner of the room. And on 

the TV, George Bailey was wishing 

everyone in the street a happy 

Christmas. Both Mary and Milly 

were warm, content, and happy. 

For a while, Mary thought about 

the people she'd cared for during 

the year. She wondered what they 

were doing now. She hoped that 

they were enjoying their Christmas. 

And she thought about the ones 

they couldn't save. The empty seats 

at the tables this Christmas. 

In her duty as a nurse, Mary had 

done what she could for the year. 

Every day, she had given her 

everything, and ultimately lost the 

one closest to her as a result. There 

were more battles ahead, but for 

now, just for one night, she was 

hushed and soothed. 

And outside, beneath the bitter 

Winter frost, Spring was stirring. 

55

www.cardiffwindows.com 

02920 692690

Rhiwbina Living Issue 51

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?