CONTACTCONTACTCONTACT
DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018
LLANGYNIDR’S FREE NEWSLETTER ISSUE NUMBER 212
THE RED LION LLANGYNIDR
Open all day Free House
Telephone 01874 730223 www.theredlion1.vpweb.co.uk [email protected] (more details on back cover) 2
_tãÜxÇvx cÜÉááxÜ 9 fÉÇá Independently owned family Funeral Directors established 1945
Members of the National Association of Funeral Directors
PRE-PAID FUNERAL PLANS AVAILABLE
“Tycerrig”, Cwmcrawnon Road, Llangynidr, NP8 1LS
Telephone 01495 303281
FOR PERSONAL ATTENTION AT ALL TIMES
3
WHAT’S ON . . .DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
2 December : Talybont Vintage, Retro & Artisan Fair (see p42 for details)
10 December : Community Carol Service, 3pm, Village Hall.
20 December : End of school term.
23 December : Annual Christmas Whist Drive, 7.30pm, Village Hall.
31 December : New Year’s Eve Ceilidh at Village Hall (see page 21 for details)
8 January : Start of school term.
12-16 February : School half term holiday.
(Please note that school holiday information is sourced from published Powys data, but please check with your school before booking a holiday)
PLEASE DON’T FORGET THE FARMERS’ MARKET HELD ON THE LAST SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH (EXCEPT FOR DECEMBER, WHEN IT WILL BE HELD ON THE 17TH) IN THE VILLAGE HALL, 10AM TO 1PM
Rainbows, Brownies and Guides meet weekly at Llangynidr School. For more information contact Debbie on 01874 731022.
Cubs meet in the Village Hall every Friday during term time, 6pm—7.30pm. More info from Mark Critchley, 676399, or Facebook at www.facebook.com/1stLlangynidrScoutGroup.
4 Articles on local events, seasonal recipe ideas, other items of interest, adverts & dates for your diary— please contact the Editor, Helen Phillips, at Belmont Cottage, James Street, Llangynidr, Powys, NP8 1NN. [email protected] 01874 730443
The Editor does not necessarily subscribe to the views expressed by contributors and cannot be held liable for the accuracy of any statement made or implied.
DEADLINE FOR FEBRUARY/MARCH IS 20 JANUARY
CONTACT IS A FREELY AVAILABLE LOCAL NEWSLETTER. CURRENTLY 250 PAPER COPIES ARE PRODUCED, 510 GO OUT VIA EMAIL
COPIES ARE MADE AVAILABLE AT THE RED LION, WALNUT TREE STORES, IN THE CHURCH PORCH OR FROM BELMONT COTTAGE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AFTER PUBLICATION DATE.
OR YOU CAN RECEIVE IT ELECTRONICALLY (& IN COLOUR) PRE PUBLICATION—JUST SEND YOUR EMAIL DETAILS TO [email protected]
IF YOU KNOW OF ANYONE WHO CANNOT RECEIVE THEIR COPY BY ANY OF THESE MEANS, PLEASE CONTACT THE EDITOR, WHO WILL DELIVER TO THEM PERSONALLY
ADVERTISING RATES
1/4 PAGE £15 PER YEAR, 1/2 PAGE £30 PER YEAR FULL A5 PAGE £60 PER YEAR
(minimum 6 issues per year, details can be changed per issue)
PLEASE MAKE CHEQUES PAYABLE TO ‘CONTACT’ OR PAY BY CASH AT BELMONT COTTAGE
5 Copies of ‘Contact’ will now be available online (along with other information) at http://www.llangynidr.online
This website is being built up to encourage the sharing of information about the area. It is intended to be a definitive guide to Llangynidr but also to promote our holiday accommodation
It may be helpful to locals to send a link to relatives etc abroad or away who have never been here
FLOWER ARRANGING LLANGYNIDR
Classes are held in the Bottom Chapel at 7pm on the last Thursday of the month—new members always welcome.
Julie Ellis 01874 730662
Mondays, 2—4pm, at the Top Chapel (URC) Vestry KNITTERS & NATTERERS
More knitting than nattering! We make clothes for charities that seek help for the less fortunate, young and old, in parts of the world where poverty and local conditions adversely affect them. Please join us for an informal, fun filled knitting/sewing session
All welcome—contact details : Margery Davies (730469), Margaret Davies (730228), Marjorie Jones (730426)
Llangynidr Pre-School and Toddlers
Run from Llangynidr Village Hall term time only
Monday 9 am - 1 pm 3 - 4 year old session Tuesday 9 am – 1 pm 2 - 4 year old session Wednesday 9 am – 1 pm 3 - 4 year old session Friday 9 am - 12 pm 2 – 4 year old session
Funded places for 3 year olds offered. Contact Deborah Hansford for more details on 01874 731022
6
Firstly, a huge ‘thank you’ for those who provided shoe boxes and cheques in support of the Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Child appeal. They were dropped off at the local collection point at the beginning of November & I’m sure will make a difference to some children’s Christmas. I will put a note in next summer’s ‘Contact’ with details of how to join in for next Christmas.
Secondly of course, I wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a very healthy New Year.
Thanks as always go to the advertisers and those who give donations towards the cost of printing to keep this freely available local newsletter running.
Helen Phillips, Editor
7 LLANGYNIDR PARISH CHURCH – CHRISTMAS 2017
We extend a warm welcome to you to our Christmastide services: Sunday 24 th December, 11am: Service of Nine Lessons and Carols (traditionally followed by mulled wine and mince pies) 10pm: Midnight Mass
This year the Crib Service is being held in Llangattock at 11am on 24 th. Christmas Morning Eucharist is at 9.30am , also in Llangattock Church
LLANGYNIDR PARISH CHURCH CHURCHYARD FUND
Many of you have commented on, or at the least noticed, that the churchyard grass is much tidier of late. This is thanks mainly to the efforts of Mr Austen Brown who has done a splendid job for us. From our own fund we cannot afford to maintain to this level because we have very little income from our 'Closed' graveyard. It would help to relieve the headache of the Treasurer if your pleasure at the work were to be translated into a donation towards this maintenance – please?
The few volunteers do a splendid job also but they cannot cover the whole churchyard. More offers by volunteers to 'adopt' an area which they then look after would be wonderful too. Thank you for reading this.
The Annual Christmas Whist Drive will be held on Saturday, 23rd December, in the Village Hall at 7.30pm.
Donations for prizes will be gratefully received.
Please contact 730469 or 730228
8
CHRISTMAS POULTRY & MEAT
FRESH DRESSED, OVEN READY TURKEYS, GEESE, CHICKENS, DUCKS, BEEF, PORK, LAMB, GAMMON ETC All sizes/weights available ORDERS TAKEN NOW— DELIVERY CAN BE ARRANGED
Contact Chris & Gene Taylor 01874 730883 or 07816 917999 OR CALL IN AT PENRHIWGARN POULTRY SUPPLIES, LLWYN RHYN FARM, LLANGYNIDR, CRICKHOWELL, NP8 1LL (1 mile out of Llangynidr on the Beaufort Road, signs at bo om of driveway)
9
By the time this article comes to print, it will be truly the start of the festive season. Some of our members are rehearsing carols with Bwlch choir already and will be singing at our village carol service on Sunday, 10th December, at 3pm in the village hall. We extend a warm welcome to everyone who would like to come and join in. This year the collection will be donated to the Brecon Street Pastors, whose representative will attend the service and tell us of the work they do.
We have recently held our AGM, which was very well attended: Janice Davies remains our President for her final year and our other officers remain in place. When business was concluded, the meeting finished with wine and hot dogs, much chatter and laughter.
November has not been quite as busy for us as the last one: we enjoyed getting together to serve teas at the flu clinic on 19th October, chatting to many who took advantage of being treated on our doorstep! We all agreed it was a very good idea and that a ‘cuppa’ and chat with the neighbours made it almost a social outing!.
On 26th October the County officers arranged a Fashion Show at the village hall and it was attended by many of the local WI groups. Bon Marché of Abergavenny provided a most attractive and reasonably priced range of outfits, which were modelled most elegantly by a group of brave WI members. A delicious buffet supper and a glass of punch was provided and very much appreciated by everyone, especially
10 the team from Bon Marché and the models. I’m sure that many of the ladies found something practical or glamorous to buy, especially as a discount was on offer for all who had bought an entrance ticket. Thank you County for yet another really enjoyable event.
One of the Wi highlights of the year is the Christmas Coffee Morning, held in Bishop Bevan Hall on Friday 1st December from 9am to 12 noon. There will be the usual stalls of course but the important event on that morning is the very special raffle. Officers at County spend a great deal of time gathering seasonal donations and sorting them into hampers, which are then beautifully wrapped and decorated for Christmas—these, and there are many, make a wonderful display. The raffle is called at the end of the morning and most people stay with a second cup of coffee, hoping to win a prize—should you be in Brecon on that Friday, don’t miss it!
We look forward to seeing many of you at the Community Carol Service on 10th December, and now it only remains for me to wish all our readers a peaceful and happy Christmas and New Year.
Toni Whitehouse
11 TALES FROM THE CANAL LOCKS
Just like the elves who made the shoes for the cobbler overnight in the Grimm Brothers’ fairy tale of 1806, there are various teams of CRT employees, volunteers and contractors all working away to get the canal system throughout England and Wales up and running again for next season. The Mon & Brec is no exception, with works on lengths of the canal to reduce leakage and improve facilities for canal users.
On our patch in Llangynidr contractors are improving the shower/toilet amenity block, whilst CRT employees are repairing masonry walls and sealing leaks. Volunteers are also working on masonry repairs and the volunteer lock keepers are involved in cleaning down the masonry walls on the locks and painting the wood and metalwork as each lock becomes available. It is hoped to return water to all the lock pounds by Christmas, but other work to the towpath will continue through to Easter.
It is said that all work and no play, etc, etc, and so it is with the volunteer lock keepers who are on duty at Llangynidr locks throughout the year. Recently we have been able to try our hands at skippering hire boats through the lock system and some have had boat handling courses, with the object of improving our ability to help those using the locks for the first time. 12 We will also be visiting the Sharpness docks in December to see some ‘real’ lock gates at work, together with a brief visit to Gloucester docks on the way. This all goes to improve our knowledge of the canal system—this knowledge to be passed on to our enquiring guests.
During the final month of the season, the intake up at Brecon has been affected by the high winds and lack of frost which has delayed the autumnal loss of leaves from the trees overhanging the river Usk above Brecon and elsewhere. The problem has been caused by small twigs with still green leaves being blown off the trees and then floating into and blocking the screens and the intake. As these screens have to be cleared by hand, it has meant that the flow has been restricted overnight with a resultant loss of water depth in the canal below Brecon and we have had to rush about a bit to maintain levels in the pounds on Llangynidr locks.
The fish rescue prior to the dewatering of our section of the canal confirmed that the varieties and numbers are showing healthy levels following the previous year’s dewatering. Species recovered included carp, dace, roach, bream and perch, together with eels.
13
Next June we are looking forward to meeting 8 war veterans from Help for Heroes who will join us in mending canal bridges and war wounds at the same time. We will be reconstructing the steps from the road up to lock 65, making a new bridge at lock 66 and installing a bench, together with painting, etc. https://www.helpforheroes.org.uk/news/2017/may/mending-canal- bridges-and-war-wounds-at-the-same-time
One of the ongoing problems with our volunteers is that a high percentage are retired and, like every other animal, we age. New volunteers are always welcome and can follow the ‘how’ link on the CRT website https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/volunteer/ways-to-volunteer
I understand that Great Canal Journeys featuring Tim and Pru cruising along the Mon and Brec canal on Skenfrith Castle is on next Thursday 7th December at 8pm on C4.
Charlie Phillips, a volunteer lock keeper
14 15 16 17 ♦ Upvc Fascia & Gu ering Slate Roof ♦ Tile Roof Fibreglass Roof ♦ Liquid Coa ngs Roof Tradi onal Felt Roof ♦ Flat to Pitched
FREE GUTTERING WITH EVERY FASCIA BOARD ORDER!
18 FREE SURVEY AND QUOTATIONS!!
TEL : 01432 354000 FAX : 01432 268263 Emai : info@centralroofing.co.uk www.centralroofing.co.uk
19
The New Year's Eve ceilidh returns to the Village Hall after a year off. The band is "Stray Away" and they promise us a "Stomping Good Time". So for those whose dancing feet are itching after the long break this is a fantastic way to round off the year and work off some of the Christmas pud. It is fun for all the family, young and old - there are often a number of children there to enliven the evening for the rest of us, even if they don't all make it to midnight!
We bring food to share - savoury, sweet or both. This year please bring your own drinks.
Tickets are only £7 and children come free. Please contact Margery Davies 01874 730469 or John Coupland, [email protected] 01874 730547 for tickets.
A service which enables people with dementia to continue to do the things they love is run by the Alzheimer’s Society in the local area. .
To find out more about accessing support or volunteering for the befriending service please contact Kate West, on 01874 712059 (mobile 07725 223901) or email [email protected].
20 21 TEAR & SHARE CHRISTMAS CHELSEA BUNS
Preparation timetime—over 2 hours, cooking timetime—30 mins—1 hour, servesservesserves—upserves to 15.
IngredientsIngredientsIngredients 800g/1lb 12oz strong white flour, plus extra for dusting 1 tbsp salt 15g sachet fast-acting yeast 400ml/14fl oz milk 60g/2¼oz unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing 2 free-range eggs
For the filling 1 x 411g jar mincemeat 1 apple, cored and finely chopped 1 pear, cored and finely chopped 1 orange, finely grated zest only 75g/2½oz shelled pistachio nuts, chopped 100g/3½oz candied peel 1 tbsp ground cinnamon 25g/1oz unsalted butter, melted
To finishTo finish 3 tbsp apricot jam 200g/7oz icing sugar, sifted 1 orange, finely grated zest only 15 glacé cherries 22 40g/1½oz candied peel 25g/1oz pistachio nibs, chopped
Method Place the flour into a large mixing bowl, add the salt to one side and the yeast to the other side. Warm the milk and butter in a small saucepan until the butter is melted and the mixture is lukewarm. Pour into the flour mixture, add the eggs and stir thoroughly until the contents of the bowl come together as a soft dough (the dough will be sticky). Tip the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface and knead well for 5 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively this can be done in a freestanding mixer using a dough hook. Place the dough in an oiled bowl and leave to rise, covered with a damp tea towel, for 1 hour or until doubled in size. This is best done in a warm room. For the filling, mix the mincemeat with the apple, pear, orange zest, pistachio nuts, candied peel and cinnamon. When risen, tip the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface. Roll out into a rectangle about 50x45cm/20x18in. Tack down the long side of the dough rectangle nearest to you by pressing it down onto the work surface with your thumb. Brush all over with the melted butter. Then spread the mincemeat mixture over the dough leaving a 2cm/¾in border. Roll the opposite long side of the dough towards you quite tightly, until the roll is complete and tight. Trim the ends to neaten. Using a sharp knife, cut it into 15 rounds about 4cm/1½in thick. Line a very large baking tray (or use the grill tray from your oven) with baking parchment. Arrange the rolls on the prepared tray, cut side up, in a Christmas tree shape, with 1 on top, 2 underneath, 3 in the third row, 4 in the fourth row, 5 in the fifth row. Use some of the trimmings to make a trunk. You want them to be close enough so that their sides will touch when the dough has risen. They can then be pulled apart and you get a lovely soft edge. Cover loosely with a clean tea towel and let the dough rise for 30-45 minutes. Preheat oven to 190C/170C Fan/Gas 5. When the buns have risen, put them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden-brown. Check after 15 minutes or so and cover the buns with foil if they are browning too quickly. Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool slightly before transferring them to a cooling rack. To finish, melt the jam in a small saucepan with a splash of water until smooth. Brush the jam over the buns to glaze and allow to cool completely. Mix the icing sugar, orange zest and 2 tablespoons water together. Transfer to a disposable piping bag and snip off a tiny tip. Pipe garlands on the buns to resemble a decorated Christmas tree. Garnish with glacé cherries, candied peel and chopped pistachio nibs. 23
24
Darren Taylor Carpentry and building New builds, conversions & extensions Roofing Kitchens General house maintenance
For a very competitive and reliable service please ring Darren on 01497 847 405 or 07940951012
25 A VERY WARM WELCOME AWAITS YOU AT
MYNYDDU TEA ROOMS, CWMDU 01874 730289 & 731077
Friendly family run café open 7 days a week from 8am—4pm
Pensioners’ Special available 10am—2pm, Monday—Friday
Licensed premises serving all-day breakfasts to home-cooked meals and award winning cakes
26
TThehe Old Storehouse, Llanfrynach, Brecon, LD3 7LJ
The Old Storehouse is a comfortable and unfussy place to stay. There's an open range in the kitchen and woodburning stoves in the sitting room and conservatory, sofas, lots of books and birds and the surrounding countryside. There are four large en-suite bedrooms. Please phone 01874 665499 or email [email protected] or check our website www.theoldstorehouse.co.uk
Nathan & Holly welcome you to
WALNUT TREE STORES & POST OFFICE
General groceries, milk and bread daily Beer, wines and spirits, coffee machine. Daily newspapers
Open every day 8am—8pm
NEW CAFÉ NOW OPEN
01874 730309
Post Office Hours: Mon–Fri 9 am-1 pm, Sat 9 am-12 noon
27
STU FLUEZY If you see any mink, please contact me (STUART HOOPER) Marc Allcock
07941 036220/07733 501498 CHIMNEY SWEEPING SERVICES 01495 446583 01873 831008 (5pm-7pm) EDS.Pestandwildlifemanagement 07593 681002 (9am-5pm) @hotmail.co.uk
All aspects of Both mink & otters chimney sweeping have long tails, but a mink’s is more undertaken rounded and furry, whereas an otter’s is Nothing too big somewhat flattened. Nothing too small Mink also have darker coats and, unlike otters, don’t have High or low any webbing on the feet. The face of an otter We’ll do them is rather blunt; a mink's is pointy.
all! Otters are better adapted to the water than mink, and you’ll probably just see the top of
Registered with the an otter's head and a bit of the tail. A mink Institute of Chimney Sweeps swims high in the water, giving you a view of (reg no 0399) much of his body. 28
THE RED LION LLANGYNIDR 01874 730223
CURRY NIGHT EVERY WEDNESDAY 66----9PM9PM
LOOK OUT FOR OUR LIVE MUSIC POSTERS—POSTERS ———NEXT EVENTS: ---
New Year’s EveEve—’Head Gardeners’ - brilliant local ska, reggae & rock band—see in 2018 with us.
QUIZ ––– Every other Thursday Night (ALL YEAR ROUND) – 8pm start – Give it a try! New teams always welcome! Check the sign by Cwm Crawnon Road for dates.
SUNDAY LUNCHES ––– REAL ALES ––– FOOD SERVED EVERY DAY 1212----2:30PM2:30PM & 66----9PM9PM ––– BAR IS OPEN ALL DAY EVERY DAY
DON’T FEEL LIKE COOKING? DON’T FORGET THAT WE DO TAKEAWAY FOOD & DRINK. IF YOU HAVEN’T GOT A MENU, PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO POP IN AND PICK ONE UP.
Also, look out for posters for other events between now & the end of the year, eg bingo, themed evenings.
29 30 31
32 33
Philip Jones Timber Products Ltd
12ft x 12ft Stables from £675 12ft x 12ft Field Shelters from £625 12ft x 12ft Loglap Mobile Field Shelters £1,275 4ft x 3ft Dog Kennels £110 Garden Sheds from £185 Wendy Houses from £300 10ft x 8ft Summer Houses £695 9ft x 7ft Log Cabin Summer Houses £1,250
Garden Gates from £35 Gate Latches - Hinges - Pad bolts. We stock Decking - Posts - Joists - Spindles - Sawn Timbers - Nails - Screws - Jump Poles - Half rounds - Straining Posts - Stakes - Stock Wire - Barb Wire - Straining Wire - Farm Gates - Feather Edge Boards from £90 per 100 Limited Stock —Met posts from £2 - £6 - Animal Design Stepping Stones £2.50p each or 10 for £18 Postcrete.
All types of fencing materials in stock - Post & Rail fencing 3 rails with 4” posts 1.8 metres apart -£7.50p per metre, supply only.
34
Woodchips - Firewood Logs - Road Planings for sale.
Special - 6ft featheredge brown boards with posts 2.4 metres apart with rail £17 per metre supply only
We also hire wrag commander post knockers and wood chippers. We stock corrugated sheets - wheel barrows - tools - strimmers - chainsaws - safety work boots from £14 .
Dickies black dealer boots from £20. 10% discount on a min of 10 pairs. Working gloves also in stock from £1/pair.
RASSAU SAWMILLS, MOUNTAIN ROAD EBBW VALE, GWENT, NP23 5BL
If you require any more info on any of our products, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01495 302069 / 309623 or 07773354449
Email enquiries to [email protected] Visit the website at www.philipjonestimber.co.uk
Bring this booklet with you for 5% discount or print off the page via your computer
35
WHY NOT COME TO SUNNY MALTA AND DO SOME SCUBA DIVING?
Please contact me if you are thinking of coming to these lovely islands where the diving is exceptional. Diving in the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean is any diver’s dream. The abundance of reefs wrecks and caves make diving here an unforgettable experience.
Um El Faroud is the best wreck dive in Malta, at least for recreational divers. It was a Libyan oil tanker that was scuttled off the coast of Wied iz-Zurrieq in September 1998 as an artificial reef and a scuba diving attraction. The tanker wreck sits upright on a sandy bottom in two parts at the depths of 18 m (funnel) to 36 m (propeller). The total length of Um El Faroud is 110 m and she offers lots of possibilities for experienced wreck divers.
Um El Faroud was built in 1969 at Smith’s Dock Co. Ltd. in Middlesborough, England. The steel tanker had 3148 gross tons and was 110 m long with beam of 15.5 m and height from keel to funnel about 22 m. Her original name was MV Seafalcon for the first four years while she was working in Norway. In 1973 the tanker was renamed as MV Um El Faroud in Libya, first owned by National Oil Corporation and then by General National Maritime Transport Company. Um El Faroud was carrying refined fuel between Italy and Libya until 1995 when she was damaged in an explosion during maintenance work in Grand Harbour of Malta and nine shipyard workers lost their lives. The tanker suffered structural deformation and was scuttled three and a half years later in Wied iz-Zurrieq
Ryan Phillips, [email protected]
36
Seventeen has passed so very fast It's Seasons Greetings time again Some memories that we hope will last Forgetting days of rain!
We are tired of Brexit, Trump and Mrs May Dominating all our tellies Maybe on this coming Christmas Day They'll just open all their pressies!
Now time to write the bottle list Ready for the great big Christmas Shop At a festive do one may get p.... And enjoy a yuletide bop!
Some have moved to pastures new Others health has made them ill Our warm kind thoughts all go to you Trusting worries are now nil.
The Christmas tree is all lit up It's a cosy time of year When friends and family all meet up And you hear from friends so dear! Season's Greetings
Marian Nute
37 38 39 40
BRIAN GRIFFITHS
Professional building and property maintenance. Local qualified tradesman with over 30 years experience. All work undertaken and guaranteed to high standard.
Carpentry, roofing, slating, tiling, plumbing, kitchens, renovations, replacement premier U-PVC windows and doors, U-PVC boards and guttering, GRP glass fibre flat roofing, emergency call out service.
01874 730987 07877527103 [email protected]
41
THE TALYBONT VINTAGE, RETRO & ARTISAN FAIR
Saturday 2 nd December 2017 10am - 4pm Henderson Hall, Talybont-on-Usk, Brecon, Powys. LD3 7YQ
Vintage China, Kitchenalia, Clothing, Retro Miscellany, Hand crafted gifts, Artisan Bread, Preserves & Chocolates Vintage Themed Tea Room
Charity raffle supporting The Brecon Mountain Rescue Team
Admission - adults £1, children free
42
CYNGOR CYMUNED LLANGYNIDR COMMUNITY COUNCIL
Minutes of a Council Meeting held in the Village Hall on Tuesday 26th September 2017 at 7.30pm.
Present: Mrs Margaret Price (Chair), Mr George Moretta, Cllr Rosemarie Harris, Mr Alan James, Mr David Filsell, Mr David Williams, Mr David Evans, Mr David Mantle and Mr Paul Lindoewood. In attendance: S.Dale (Clerk).
1. Apologies for absence: Mrs Elizabeth Gibbs & Mr Gene Taylor
2. Declaration of interest in items of business listed below: None
3. Signing of: The minutes of the meeting held on the 25th July 2017. Proposed by DW and seconded by AJ. The minutes were approved and signed by the Chair.
4. Correspondence: a. Brecon Advice Centre Annual Report 16/17. Circulation. 5. Clerk's Report
Welsh Government - Taking Wales Forward consultation open until 30th September. Reported as wanting to make every foot path in Wales to a bridleway or a cycle track. Rights of Way Implementation plan from BBNPA, consultation tocome out shortly. The contract cleaner has had an operation on his knee but has made a good recovery and is back to work earlier than expected. The Community Council will need to issue a couple of extra cheques to cover his work for the toilets (£86.72) and the car park (£8.75). Thanks to MP for looking after things and thank you to DM for dealing with the fy tipping. Actions from July have been completed.
6. Finance: a. Statement of Accounts for September 2017. Approved b. Cheques approved for payment in July 2017 Cleaning the Car Park (July&August) £75.00 Clerk’s wages & Stationery Allowance (Jul & Aug) £617.94 Cleaning Public Conveniences (Jul & Aug) £229.00 Fixing the public conveniences £30.00 Refreshments for the Annual Parish Meeting £20.00 Sanitation – Initial Rentokil £191.52 T M Hardy - Electrician (no charge for his time) £32.34
43 c. Cheques to be approved for payment in September 2017 Cleaning the Car Park (up to September 18th) £22.50 Clerk's wages and Stationery Allowance £308.97 Cleaning the public conveniences £68.70 Village Hall – grant £2500.00 British Gas (electricity) £72.78 Viking (Office Depot International UK Ltd) £132.25 Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC) £61.00
7. Report from the County Councillor There is a new 30 mile an hour limit at Scethrog, this is because of concerns about the poor state of the road. It is a temporary measure and will be repaired as soon as possible. Some consideration has been given to extending the yellow lines at the back of the primary school, the main aspect is the safety of the children. But the back gate from the school has not been used in a while and the houses would have nowhere to park. Mill Street is also congested but it is not an area where children are so exposed to traffic risk. All the libraries in every area have been moved into different accommodation; staff are still employed but for less cost. There will be a retrospective report on the children's services section but there is no final report yet. It is coming up to budget time, the settlement from the Welsh Government is expected to be low, the lowest budget in Wales. Crickhowell School's GCSE and A level results were excellent – perhaps the best in Wales. Recycling sites are now open for more hours. The welsh stream in Brecon High School will continue. There was a meeting of 3 National Parks in Brecon. The cabinet has a vision for Powys. More jobs, especially attracting young people to stay in the county. Improved broadband. Improvement of skills in the county.
8. The new soft plastic recycling bin has proved very popular, the bin had to emptied earlier than expected. Noted.
9. Rights of way improvement plan from BBNP, to be discussed and action agreed. BBNPA is to circulate the plan shortly.
10. The Community Council would like to thank Mr Robert Manson for his work on the undergrowth around the telephone box on Forge Road. The area looks considerably improved.
11. Five Councils' Liaison Committee meeting is due. Llangattock would like to raise recycling, do Llangynidr Councillors have any agenda items to raise? None.
12. Powys wellbeing plan, vision and objectives. The survey deadline has been extended to the 13th October 2017. Clerk to circulate on email.
44 13. Litter pick to be arranged. 14th October 2017, 10.30am in the car park. Clerk to advertise.
14. A geocashing event organiser is requesting that he be allowed toplace a geocache (in a plastic box) under the hedge in the car park as part of an event. To be discussed and action agreed. To be permitted. Clerk to write to the organiser.
15. Electoral reform consultation from the Welsh Government. Turnout is a huge problem in some areas. Powys County Council has responded. PL will respond as an individual. The deadline in 10th October 2017.
16. The 2nd “L” of the village sign is not fixed properly. DE to examine the letter.
17. The surface of the car park has degraded in a particular area. To be discussed and action agreed. Clerk to obtain a quote from a reliable local company.
18. The gate near Pen -Isha -Coed has been mended, unfortunately horses can no - longer gain access to the bridal way. The gate requires a pedestrian to open it.
19. The telephone box by the school, it's door won't shut properly. To be discussed and action agreed. Clerk to write to BT.
20. Reports from other meetings attended. The Historical Society have taken on the care and maintenance of the memorial. The Remembrance Service was discussed at a meeting with MP. The service will run as in previous years. Clerk to write to remind the Historical Society not to put a ladder up against the memorial as it might not be safe to do so. Llangynidr show was an outstanding day, the Community Council congratulate DM and the whole team, most successful!
21. Any agenda items for the next meeting from Councillors. Clerk to ask the Brecon Beacons National Parks warden and the Rights of Way Officer to meet with the Community Council at a more convenient time.
22. Date of next meeting: Tuesday 31st October 2017. S Dale, Clerk
Minutes of a Planning Meeting held in the Village Hall on Tuesday 26th September 2017 at 7.30pm. Present: Mrs Margaret Price (Chair), Mr David Evans, Mr David Mantle, County Councillor R. Harris, Mr Paul Lindoewood, Mr George Moretta, Mr Alan James, Mr David Filsell & Mr David Williams. In attendance: S.Dale (Clerk). 1. Apologies for absence: Mr Gene Taylor & Mrs Elizabeth Gibbs.
45 2. Declaration of interest in items of business listed below: None 3. Signing of the minutes of the planning meeting held on the 25thJuly, 2017. Proposed by AJ and seconded by DW. The minutes were approved and signed by the Chair. 4. Planning Applications: The Garth, 17/14335/FUL. Discharge condition 3 pursuant to planning permission. No objections. 5. Notice of Decisions: None 6. Refusals: None 7. Withdrawals: None 8. Date of Next Meeting: Tuesday 31st October 2017. Sue Dale – Clerk 10. Oct. 2017
Minutes of a Council Meeting held in the Village Hall on Tuesday 31st October 2017 at 7.30pm. Present: Mrs Margaret Price (Chair), Mr George Moretta, Cllr Rosemarie Harris, Mr Alan James, Mr David Filsell, Mr David Williams, Mr David Mantle, Mrs Elizabeth Gibbs & Mr Gene Taylor In attendance: S.Dale (Clerk). 1. Apologies for absence: Mr David Evans & Mr Paul Lindoewood 2. Declaration of interest in items of business listed below: None 3. Signing of: The minutes of the meeting held on the 26th September 2017. Proposed by AJ and seconded by GM. The minutes were approved and signed by the Chair. 4. Correspondence: a. Letter from a resident concerning the state of the road outside his home. The Community Council is sympathetic, but there is no law to support action in this case. 5. Clerk's Report A resident has asked if the Young Persons award could be applied to those going off to University. The Community Council judges each application on it's merits, remembering that the amount is modest and winning applicants are expected to give a presentation to the council. 6. Finance: a. Statement of Accounts for September 2017. Approved b. Cheques approved for payment in September 2017 Cleaning the Car Park (up to September 18th) £22.50 Clerk's wages and Stationery Allowance £308.97 46 Cleaning the public conveniences £68.70 Village Hall – grant £2500.00 British Gas (electricity) £72.78 Viking (Office Depot International UK Ltd) £132.25 Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC) £61.00 c. Cheques to be approved for payment in October 2017 Cleaning the Car Park (up to September 18th) £37.50 Clerk's wages and Stationery Allowance £308.97 Cleaning the public conveniences £114.50 Cae Post £10.20 Welsh Audit Office £231.00 Burial Ground Trust £200.00 RBL Poppy Appeal £17.00 British Gas £64.30 7. Report from the County Councillor The County Councillor, also the the Leader of Powys County Council, will be at Llangynidr for the Armistice Service on Sunday 12th of November (10.50am at the memorial). The new cabinet, formed in May, are dealing with the problems that have arisen, such as with Children's Social Services. There has been tragic loss of lives in a fire in Llangammarch Wells, Powys. A 40 is The North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agent will be undertaking resurfacing works on the A40 between Glan Usk Park and Brecon commencing 7th November 2017. There are 4 No distinct sites: Llanhamlach, Scethrog to Newton Farm, Tal -y-bryn, & Kestrel Inn (as shown on the attached plans). The works are scheduled to take place between the hours of 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, and are currently planned for completion on 24th November 2017. For 2 No. sites (Scethrog to Newtown Farm and Kestrel Inn) the road will need to be physically closed whilst the works are carried out. The current road closure programme is as follows: Scethrog to Newton Farm – Total of 5 days, 8th to 14th November 2017 (excluding weekends). Kestrel Inn – Total of 7 days, 15th to 23rd November 2017 (excluding weekends). The official signed diversion route will be via the A40 to Brecon, A470/A438 to Bronllys, A479 to Nantyfin to rejoin the A40, and vice versa. It is budget setting time for Powys County Council, the Childrens' Services must take a priority. Brecon Beacons National Park and Powys County Council are in discussion about affordable housing money, some of which is attributable to Llangynidr. There was a fireworks party at Dering Lines on Friday 3rd November. There have been 2 business tenders for Maes -y-fynnon Day Care Centre.
47 8. The 2018 Review of Parliamentary Constituencies in Wales has produced revised proposals, comments are being gathered before 11th December 2017. These proposals do not directly affect Llangynidr. 9. Waste and recycling rounds are to be optimized, perhaps changing the collection day for many residents. All residents will be informed by post of their new collection day closer to the 2 time. Noted
10. The Brecon Beacons National Park Authority informs the Community Council that a public footpath at Llanerch -y-beudy and Bryn Melin is to be diverted unless representations are made. Noted. 11.Request for a contribution towards running costs for Powys Citizens Advice. Request refused, clerk to write back. 12. Review of the Community and Town Council Sector by the Independent Review Panel. The panel are requesting involvement from the sector, their email address is [email protected]. Correspondence. 13. Consultation on the Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Bill, particularly the general principles of the Bill. Responses are required by the 1st December 2017. Adjourned to November. 14.Consultation seeking views on the status of town / village greens. Details can be found on https://consultations.gov.wales/consultations/registration -town - an d -village -greens.Noted. 15.Glanusk caravan park has been given permission – in spite of objections from Llangynidr and Llangattock. The Brecon Beacons National Park Authority will make it clear that the best way to approach the entrance is from the west (ie from the Llangattock side). Strong views are held about this road. 16.Pen Beili bridle way sits on the Llangynidr -Talybont boarder, riders are concerned that the path is not fit for purpose in some parts. Tor y foel is administered via Buckland Common. Adjourned until the meeting with The Warden and Rights of Way Officer. 17.The clerk is to monitor the cost of the water bill for changes since the urinal flush was changed. 18.A donation box has been fitted to the cupboard door in the public toilets. The contractor will manage it. No change will be left overnight. Noted 19. A resident has complained about a branch overhanging the river walk between the bridge and Tyr -y-wen, near the Walnut Tree stores. To be discussed and action agreed. No branch has been identified. Clerk to inform the resident. 20.The hedge on the green lane in between Castle Road and Cwm Crawnon Road has been cutback. Is there any further action to be taken by the Community Council? None
48 21. The green waste bins in the car park are very popular but can be difficult to fill to the top possibly leading to fly tipping of the SD SD SD 3 excess material. A resident has suggested a ramp to the top to alleviate the problem. Clerk to inform the resident that the scheme sounds hazardous. 22.A reliable contractor has been asked for a quote to fill a pothole in the car park. No quotation yet, Clerk to request again. 23.The hedge in the car park park may need trimming. To be discussed and action agreed. DM to arrange. 24.Insurance renewal, required before 11th December 2017. Clerk to complete a comparison of the various policies offered. 25.Reports from other meetings attended. MP and RH examined the pavements in Erw Bant, they found that there were places where the pavements may well be slippery in icy weather. EG attended a meeting about retrospective planning. 26.Any agenda items for the next meeting from Councillors. Meeting with the Rights of Way Officer and the Warden to be scheduled with the Community Council. Geocacheing in Cyffredin Lane and the Duffryn Crawnon (if item required). Toilets. 27.Date of next meeting: 28th November 2017. Sue Dale, Clerk Minutes of a Planning Meeting held in the Village Hall on Tuesday 31st October 2017 at 7.30pm. Present: Mrs Margaret Price (Chair), Mrs Elizabeth Gibbs, Mr Gene Talyor, Mr David Mantle, County Councillor Rosemarie Harris, Mr George Moretta, Mr Alan James, Mr David Filsell & Mr David Williams. In attendance: S.Dale (Clerk). 1. Apologies for absence: Mr Paul Lindoewood & Mr David Evans. 2. Declaration of interest in items of business listed below: None 3. Signing of the minutes of the planning meeting held on the 26th September 2017. Proposed by DW and seconded by DM. The minutes were approved and signed by the Chair. 4. Planning Applications: None 5. Notice of Decisions: None 6. Refusals: None 7. Withdrawals: None 8. Date of Next Meeting: Tuesday 28th November 2017. Sue Dale – Clerk
49
LLANGYNIDR COMMUNITY COUNCIL
There was a large attendance on Remembrance Sunday at the Cenotaph; it is moving to see this annual service is so important to village residents. We must thank Llangynidr History Society and Llangynidr Church for the excellent arrangements they made in making the commemoration such a success. We must also thank the Collectors of the Poppy Appeal who work so hard in calling house to house collecting donations as well as the local business people who display the collecting boxes in the work place. Crickhowell and District have raised over £7,000, a truly wonderful effort . A traffic calming event will take place soon the Council is concerned about the speed of some vehicles that drive though the village especially by the playing field, the bus stop and car park .We do need more volunteers to monitor the traffic calming. It will be only for an hour now and then— if you are interested please phone me at 730913 . The Community Council wishes Llangynidr residents a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year
Margaret Price Chair of the Community Council
50
LLANGYNIDR PARISH CHURCH
Our church is open every day from around 10am to 4pm as a place for a moment of peaceful rest and reflection. We have a ‘Friends of the Church’ scheme to help in the maintenance of this quiet space. Please contact 730064 if you would like to help us. Services take place most Sundays at 11am but please read the notices in the lychgate or on the church door for further details or variations.
SARDIS UNITED REFORMED CHURCH, LLANGYNIDR
December 3rd 9.30am Rev Margaret Williams 10th 9.30am Rev Jeff Williams 17th 10am Carols at Baptist Church 24th 9.30am Carols and readings 25th 9.30am CHRISTMAS MORNING UNITED COMMUNION SERVICE Rev Wm Jones 31st 11am Pastorate Service at Gilwern URC
January 7th 10am United at Baptist Church 14th 10am Ditto 21st 11am Christian Unity Service at Church 28th 9.30am Rev Margaret Williams
SARDIS BAPTIST CHAPEL, LLANGYNIDR (Junior Church at 10am during term time) December 3rd Joint service at URC 10th ditto 17th Rev Ray Lewis 24th Mrs P Robinson 31st Communion Service Rev R Lewis
January 7th 10am ditto ditto 14th 10am Rev Richard Gray 21st 11am Christian Unity Service, Parish Church 28th 10am Mrs Penny Robinson
BETHESDA CONGREGATIONAL CHAPEL, LLANGATTOCK
December 3rd 10.30am Communion Service Rev Margaret Williams 10th 10.30am ditto 17th 10.30am ditto 24th 10.30am ditto 25th 10am CHRISTMAS COMMUNION ditto 31st 10.30am ditto
January 7th 10.30am Communion Service ditto 14th 10.30am Rev Ray Lewis 21st 10.30am Christian Unity Service at ‘Bethesda’ Rev Margaret Williams 28th 10.30am ditto
51
52