1

The Parish Magazine for the St. Cadoc Grosmont Group of Parishes

Llangattock St. Bridget Lingoed

St.Mary

Llanfair St. Nicholas

Grosmont

No.244 2

01981 541 307 07794 569 284 3

Change can be a choice we embrace or a necessity foisted upon us. It is rarely easy, but frequently essential. However much we may fight it, we are all going to have to make changes to the way we live in the world. Climate change may have accelerated through the folly of man, but if we do not embrace the measures needed to slow it down then we will be facing radical changes to our environment, the sea- sons, and life will inevitably be very different. It is not good enough for us to continue to see our own lives out without recognising the responsibilities we have for future generations. Change is inevitable!

But change does not have to be seen as a negative thing. Change brings new hopes and opportunities, the possibilities of different ex- periences. Change enhances our lives and broadens our understand- ing. Change opens us up to the amazing variety and diversity that the world offers us. It enables us to live in a vibrant and exciting three dimensional world. When we learn to embrace change we learn to live and experience life in it’s fullest.

So, as we change from 2019 to 2020, as we go into a new year with a new Government for the country, as our Church Link magazine changes to a new size, with new editor, let us look back on what has been with grateful thanks, and embrace what is next to be with open hearts and minds, ready to be surprised by what is in store. After all, we all have the choice to make the ‘new’ work, to embrace change and find something good in it even if it does cause us to be a bit uncomfortable.

I wish you all every joy and happiness For this New Year. 4

STEVE LUMPKIN

Specialises in Stonework, blockwork, lime pointing, brickwork and plaster- ing

Can also undertake tiling, patios and more ….

Mobile—078548 20984

Home—01873 853095

Call for any enquiries

Restoration

General Building and

Genealogy

I can offer a wide range of

services in the building and •

plumbing trades. Energy efficiency in older buildings a

speciality. - • - All jobs considered. - - I can also help with your family

tree research!

Charlie Kensington

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Editor’s corner

Two years ago my husband Gary and I moved to Grosmont and were amazed and delighted by the warmth of welcome and community spirit that we found here. Small gestures of friendship from our neighbours have made such a difference to our lives.

When I couldn’t get out after injuring my ankle last summer, there was a steady stream of visitors bringing home-made cakes, jam and flowers but most importantly, neighbourly kindness.

My mum always used to say ‘Kindness costs nothing but it’s priceless.’ Five minutes of our time can make an immeasurable difference to someone’s day. Gilliy x

. . . A. .I. .S.A -

rofessional tuition combined with patience and encouragement is the proven way to achieve the high standard required to pass your test.

Learn to drive in the comfort of a modern air-conditioned car.

I can also provide assistance with theory w@ . . k and pass plus training this scheme enables 6

Llangattock Lingoed Sweepstake Last months Sweepstake winners were: 1st prize £24 189 Carolyn Farr 2nd prize £18.50 Alison Price 3rd prize£13.50 156 Margaret Emery New members welcome. Email [email protected] Since April 2012 Sweepstake has raised over £4000 for St Cadoc’s and has given away the same sum in prize money! Thanks to everyone who to everyone who has made this possible. Prizes equal 50% of each month’s stake money. Join now by completing a form at Llangattock post office and return to the post office or to Jean Pandy, School House . All winners will be notified by post and the winning numbers published here in the Church Link. Promoter: Rev Jean Prosser, Yew Tree Farm, Llangattock Lingoed.

THE MOLE TRAPPER

(Member of the Guild of British Mole Catchers)

YOUR LOCAL, PROFESSIONAL, FAST AND FRIENDLY TRADITIONAL MOLE CATCHER

PROVIDING A SERVICE WITH FIRST CLASS RESULTS

Thirty years experience

Fully insured

No call out fee I won't make a mountain out of a molehill!

T:- 01981 241 294 7

Ty Gwyn Cider extend a warm welcome to all isitors at their farm cider shop near Pontrilas We o er free tastin s, and also do teas, co ees, i s, t-shirts and a ran e of delicious local produce Our ciders ha e won presti ious awards and are all made with 100 uice It s the real deal for cider lo ers! Simply take the turnin from the main A4 Aber a enny to Hereford road si nposted Rowlestone and you ll nd us at the top of the hill Ty Gwyn Cider, Pen-Y-Lan Farm, Pontrilas HR2 0DL Tel: 01981 241 181 email: alex ty wyncider co uk web: www ty wyncider co uk

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GROSMONT POST OFFICE G OSMO OW LL AND STORES E

Telephone

01981 240 301

For all your needs

Groceries Fruit and vegetables

Mrs Frances Lambert, Confectionery 94 Wern Gifford, Pandy NP7 BRU Free range eggs g @ Wide range of newspapers and magazines Clerk of the Council

TONY PHILLIPS Learn to use a computer Your Local En ineer One to one tuition in your own For all Oil Fired Boiler Systems home. Heatin Systems and Oil Tanks Word Processing Internet and Ser iced, Commissioned much more, including Replaced and Installed Trouble Shooting. OFTEC REGISTERED Call Judy Vaughan on

01981 240 085 Tel: 01 00 7 0 23 or Or Mobile 07815 630 562 07971 08 9 9

To the wonderful volunteers who help look after our churches, from those who clean and tidy, to the flower ar- ranging teams who bring nature’s beauty in . THANK YOU. You are all appreciated.

You need GADOIL (Grosmont and District Oil Consortium)

H g

DO YOU WANT TOS S g – G x M g g j x I w YES EALY w g w g G 01981 80 32 0 9128 3269 C k w www. g . . k g @ .

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HOSPITAL CHAPLAINS Discover the natural beauty of your voice If someone you know is in hospital the chaplains can complement the Improve your range and pastoral and sacramental care the develop confidence local church is proving. There are hospital chaplains on duty every weekday and also on Sunday Improve muscle tone and mornings. circulation

Contacts:

The Royal Hospital Newport VIRGINIA BLAKEY FRSM

Tel: 01633 234 263

Email: alan.tyler@.nhs.uk For special introductory rates for individual and Ne ill Hall, Aber a enny Tel: 01873 group vocal 732112 Please contact Virginia on 07872 612856 or email Email: [email protected] g @g 11

THE HAPPY PLACE

What do you call a man wear- What kind of vegetable plays snooker? ing giant pink furry earmuffs? A cucumber! Anything you like, he can’t hear you!

A zero and an eight were crossing the When is a door not a desert. and the zero said “ Aren’t you door? hot in that belt?”

When it’s a ar... When should you not go out in the snow?

When you have your slippers on!

Some happy mice for you to colour! 12

Specialises in Stonework, blockwork, lime pointing, brickwork and plastering Can also undertake tiling, patios and more .

obile—0 209

Home—01 09

Call for any enquiries

Help protect our environment by making ‘Morse Bags’ with Grosmont Crafters. See below for group details.

GROSMONT CRAFTERS

Meet every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month in Grosmont Town Hall from 7-9pm.

This is a really friendly informal craft evening and welcomes all ages and interests.

Make new friends, learn or share a skill.

Come along for crafts and chat. £2 per session includes a cuppa.

Call 01981 241662 for more information. 13

' REGISTRATION DISTRICT' Registration of Births and Deaths and Marriages

T g O , T O P , U k NP1 1GA Open: M - 9.00 - 4.00 T 018 3 3 43 x 018 3 3 429.

We welcome letters from our readers on any R.J & R.B Mailes Family Butchers Est: 1892 subject. Of Ewyas Harold & The Golden Valley HR2 0EX Located Centrally, Opposite The Post Office

In the case of letters that 01981 240 234 are critical of any Monday-Friday 8am – 5.30pm Saturday 8am – 1pm person, business or Meat sourced as locally as possible – organisation, a copy may * Beef- Including fattening our own cattle, be sent to the body Eynon’s of Wormbridge, Sparey’s of Garway. concerned so that they * Lamb – R. Whistance of Garway. Ensors of are given the Forest of Dean. simultaneous right to * Pork – Woodland Pigs of Gloucestershire. Producing sausages, burgers & pies on the reply. premises. Stocking a wide range of bread, Anonymity of cheeses, fish, sauces & condiments. Nescafe & contributors can only be Go available. Proud stockists of local organic accepted in exceptional potatoes & Herefordshire honey. If what you’re circumstances and at the after isn’t on display, no matter how unusual discretion of the editor. please ask – the alligator is in the freezer by the front door & the cooked pickled tongue is Publication cannot be at your far right of the chiller cabinet! guaranteed and is Telephone orders welcome & no minimum order subject to space being required. We accept credit/debit cards & available. truffle cards (sign up to Truffle Herefordshire to receive our treat!) ~~~~~~~ 14

Emma Morgan

Physiotherapy

Reach your

potential Home Visits Falls Mobility Rehab Long Term Conditions Assessment Acute injuries Post Operation Exercises Massage Acupuncture Advice Please rin to discuss your needs Home isits a ailable www emmamor anphysio co uk 01873 821284

07989407 4

O TEC g 10296 O g

P , P , . A a s, Rayburns and Oil boilers Robin Smythe O TEC g 3 89 0749 0 42 01 00 780371 [email protected] www.boilermonmouth.co.uk 15

E

O g OFSTED Registered

‘GOOD’ GOO

S S W S O M S x

S L L

M gg

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Fancy a co ee and a chat with some of your nei hbours? Why not come alon to the Community Co ee Mornin ? It s held in St Nicholas Gros- mont and is for e eryone to en oy It s all ery informal, ust pop in any- time between 10am and 12noon Tea, co ee ,cake, and a ood old natter, it s free to attend, all welcome 17 TONY WEBB SERVICES SKENFRITH 01600 750224

1.5, 3 and 5 ton Excavators with Driver

Specialising in groundwork for

*Extensions

*Drainage

*Landscaping

*Horse Arenas etc

*Dumper available

*Public Liability Insurance

*Precision measurement with laser level

ACCOMMODATION Sales, hire, service Hedge & brush The Old Rectory, in the unspoilt cutters Cultivators & rural village of The Garden chainsaws And Estate LLANGATTOCK-LINGOED Ride on mowers Machinery Ready to use ma- B&B and Self catering available. Specialists chinery SPECIAL OFFER for 3 nights B&B Display show- rooms from December to March on Availability. Special Offer Every Week e-mail [email protected] Tel 01873 821326 MONNOW MOWERS & MACHINERY LTD Wonastow Road Industrial Es- tate West • Mon- mouthshire • NP5 3JA

Telephone 01600 715520 Facsimile 01600 715530

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If you would like to get in contact with the Grosmont market team, contact them via: [email protected] . You can also find further information about the market on the Mar- ket Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ grosmontmarket and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ grosmontmarket/

19 NEW FOR JANUARY T g G g w k g . T g . W k w g ’ , g w w g , w w k w v w k - g ? W v v g UK g q k . W k, , v g v w w v w w . O v , , - . T k . , w k g w w w w , w w k- g, ’ ! I g g g k k v x g g j . I g w k , v . S , x g w w ‘FARMING FOCUS’ . E G W D . T k E k g g v g . I , v v g k I G W . Gilliy 20 FARMING FOCUS

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P I 3.00 . I w , g , v g g g k g . P I v , P v w k 2 S . I .30 I v v g k g w g.

M k g g 4.30 w , w k g j .00 w . A k w w v g w w .

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g w , v g . I ’ g . I g g g w k H v g C w g g.

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T w g 2020 I w x g w , I k w .

E 22 FARMING FOCUS On Grosmont Wood farm.

Harvey and Skipper

Some of the girls strolling out to enjoy the fresh air and green pastures. 23

Join us for the first Flicks in the Sticks of 2020 Tuesday January 14th at 7.30pm £5 GARWAY COMMUNITY HALL J k , k g, -L , W L OSE , , , j , w k g G w g w w N v . S v . J W g w v w g ’ . N 10 I A w g I , A S . U , k g . J g 2020 - w w k .

PEOPLE POWER!

At a meeting of Grosmont Events the Chairperson asked for ‘any other business’ and someone asked ‘Can we do something to decorate the Town Hall and make it more welcoming?’

The result was three weekends of prep, filling, painting and cleaning by a team of fantastic volunteers who accomplished a minor miracle together, transforming the decidedly grim interior into a bright, clean and welcoming space.

Thank you to everyone who helped refresh the Town Hall for us to enjoy! 24

DO YOU NEED SUPPORT? Anxiety? Low mood? Can’t sleep?

Over thinking? Post traumatic stress symptoms?

If you are experiencing any of these, I can help and support you. I offer help and therapy in a location near you as a Registered Mental Health Nurse, with 17 years NHS experience. I am fully insured and abide by the strict code of professional conduct of the NMC. Please contact me, Michelle, on 07980767445.

CROSS ASH LUNCH CLUB Anyone is welcome to come and enjoy a lovely lunch at Red Castle Tearoom once a month with Lunch Club. The lunch club welcomes everyone, just come along and find yourself among friends in an instant! The club meets on Fridays once a month at 12 noon at the Red Castle Tearoom. Cost £5 (the club will cover any additional cost). Check the next date and book your place by phoning Mabel Martin 01873 821473 or Alan Llewellyn 01873 821429 Supported by Skenfrith Community Shop and the Police and Crime Commisioner for Gwent Partnership Funding.

More news, pictures and events on www.grosmont.wales 25

26

NEW FROM RURAL FUTURES Update and Notes from Grosmont s Got Talent plannin meetin 3 December 2019

This meeting focussed on 2 key tasks:

Planning and budgeting for the Grosmont’s Got Talent event Finalising a funding application for the event Plannin and bud etin for the Grosmont s Got Talent e ent

E ent date chan e; It was decided to hold the event in March not February. There were a number reasons for this. Firstly, there were a significant number of apolo- gies for this meeting so a planning meeting early in the New Year has been ar- ranged to ensure the maximum number of people can be involved to shape and support the event. Concerns about the available time to plan everything and the February weather also contributed to this decision.

Date of next meetin 15 January, 7-8.30pm in the Town Hall.

Freshers Fayre element; Detailed list of all local groups and small businesses has been produced. It is evident from this that the Nave could not accommodate eve- ryone on the list. It was decided only local groups would be invited to run promo- tional stalls. Small businesses will be invited to forward a small poster or basic in- formation about their business and a promotional wall will display this at the event. The information will also be put into a simple directory of local businesses which will be available at the event.

Food & Drink; The event will offer free food for everyone. There will be a Hog roast. Vegetarian and vegan options and puddings will be provided by the commu- nity. Drinks will be also be available to purchase.

Talent Show; Feelers will be put out to find anyone interested in helping to coordi- nate the talent show including identifying contestants, identifying an MC and a judge. There will be a £50 or equivalent prize for first place. Please get in touch if you think you can help.

Fundin application for the e ent

An application was finalised and submitted to cover the majority of the costs asso- ciated with the event and this has subsequently been approved! Congratulations to everyone who has contributed to this! 27

EASY SODOKU WORDSEARCH

MEDIUM SODOKU

Lon town and District Historical Society January 6, 2020. Dr Ann Benson: and its place on the National Stage during the Renaissance. Dr Benson is a lecturer and author, specialising in the history of gardens and architecture in the Tudor and Stuart period. Membership costs £10 reduced to £5 in January. Guests £3 per meeting. Meetings are on Mondays at 7.30pm in Longtown Village Hall, HR2 0LD. Contact [email protected] in the event of bad weather. 28

Discover the natural beauty of your voice

Improve your range and develop confidence

Improve muscle tone and circulation

VIRGINIA BLAKEY FRSM

For special introductory rates for individual and group vocal

Please contact Virginia on 07872 612856 or email g @g

CARPENTER AVAILABLE

For cupboards, doors, hard wood

flooring, garden structures,

ALSO wall and floor tiling

Contact: Paul Ackerman

01989 770098 [email protected] Website: ackermancarpentry.co.uk

29 ROSS VINCENT

your local painter & decorator

Ov 20 x .

O v g w k . W k w . M k w , w w k k w. P - . T v .

To arran e a quote call:

01981 240 72

079 18 99

TED WILLIAMS AND SONS

ESTABLISHED 1883 FUNERAL DIRECTORS & MONUMENTAL MASONS

AN INDEPENDENT FIRM PROVIDING A PERSONAL SERVICE DAY AND NIGHT

TO AND SURROUNDING RURAL AREAS PRE-PAID PLANS AVAILABLE

• DEDICATED CHAPEL AND REST ROOMS

• LARGE CAR PARK

PARK ROAD FUNERAL HOME,

ABERGAVENNY

Tel: 01873 8 3942 / 8 43 8 30

H g

Tom Finn DO YOU WANT TO S S g – G Photography

Freelance Photographer x M g g Commercial, weddings, j x parties, portraiture, pets I w YES and animals. EALY w Fully insured, profes- g w g sional service at competi- G 01981 80 32 0 9128 3269 tive prices. C k w Contact– facebook Tom www.hypnotherapybygill.co.uk or Finn Photography email Or call 01873 890468 g @ . B G SOME E E B K O OU L E Monmouth Montessori School Creative Learning for 2 – 11yrs

Children taught as individuals, at their own pace, leading to high results; scholarships often achieved.

Small friendly classes in a beautiful setting close to Skenfrith. Www.monmouthmontessorischool.co.uk langattoc - ibon-Avel

rincipal rs osemary haley c ons CE Cantab 31

ROMAN CATHOLIC SERVICES OMAN CATHOLIC CHU CH SE VICES A E HELD AT ELMONT,

HE E O D, A E GAVENNY AND MONMOUTH C CHU CHES.

C : P P : 01432 2 319

St James Church,

Holy Communion is held at 8.45am on the third Sunday of each month in this candlelit church which lies between the A465 and the . You are very welcome to join us for these early morning services, or at one of our special occasions. Further information is available from 01981 240242.

L g

Gwent Archi es E w V ( .10) HA C H ( .33) v - . S w w k w k g . L k T D , v , g . D w w k w: g ? w v ? T Gwent Archi es and ARC) w , V T . Y

v w k C , E g , L T x D . T w w q w w - – w . J w w . 32 SKENFRITH PARISH HALL

Well furnished fully licensed community hall available for hire

for private parties, meetings, trade shows, classes,

exhibitions, weddings, plays, etc.

* Well equipped kitchen

*Staging/ Stage lighting

* Committee Room

* Court Yard

* Disabled Access & Facilities

*Discount rate for Charities & Youth Organisations

MORE INFORMATION

Contact Ann 01600 750434 E-mail: [email protected] Oldfield Forge Traditional Blacksmith

All styles of ironwork undertaken: gates/railings, restoration work, window/door furniture, fabrication/welding, curtain rails, fire baskets & irons, bespoke & contemporary art etc. For more information call Aaron on:- 01981 580016 or 01981 580573 33

RECOGNIZING A STROKE

Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke. Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:

S Ask the individual to SMILE. T Ask the person to TALK and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently)

R Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS. If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call emergency number immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

NOTE: Another 'sign' of a stroke is this:

Ask the person to 'stick' out their tongue. If the tongue is 'crooked', if it goes to one side or the other, that is also an indication of a stroke.

34

Da id Jones ARCHERY IN THE NAVE

v g .30 Your County S N N v , G . Councillor C j S I

A .

I am always happy to hear from All ages are welcome residents of Crucorney Ward about Primary school age children any council issues that affect them. must be accompanied by an Please contact me on adult). Cost £3.00 per person per 01873 821497 or 07561 475563 session. [email protected]

GWENT ARCHIVES GARWAY COMMUNITY CENTRE

Gwent Archi es opened at its new site in Ebbw AVAILABLE FOR HIRE Vale in 2011. The magnificent new facilities provide: Sports, Concerts, Meetin s, Music, Fund Raisin E ents, Family Parties, Weddin Receptions An ideal environment for you to use the unique collection of documents. Around 10km of state of Reasonable Rates the art storage so the Collection can be preserved for future generations and we can go on collecting - we are always keen to hear from people with documents they think might be of interest. Lecture and group facilities so people can learn more about using the resources. A modern archive

conservation studio where you can see the - delicate work of repair and conservation carried out. •

Opening Hours: • S

Monday to Friday 9:30 - 5:00 p.m • -

2nd Saturday each month: 10.00am - 4.00pm. For details and to book Community Centre contact Hilary or Austen Keenan Visit Us: Gwent Archives, Steelworks Road Ebbw Vale Blaenau Gwent NP23 6AA 01 00 7 0243

Telephone Enquiries: 01495 353363 Email: Check your booking www arway or uk [email protected] 35

YOUR CHURCH LINK 2020 W . A , - g , v w w - . W w w . P ’ - g g g MUST g .

w v : 140 12 g , 0 g , 3 q g . C - g . O v v , w v g z w v v g . A v g w . A k w w g v . I g @ . 9 v . Subscription to CHURCH LINK COSTS 10 January.

Following on from our market research most readers opted to take either an A5 copy of this magazine or would like to use the new online website access once it becomes available. An A4 large print copy will be available for those readers who need this service and Revd. Gaynor will be printing these off herself. The price of subscription remains unchanged at £10 per year, payable in January.

36

SERVICES FOR January 2020 All services are Holy Communion unless marked*

Tuesday 9:15am Morning Prayer at St. Nicholas Grosmont

5 January Epiphany (Plough Sunday)

Isaiah 60.1–6 9:15am St. Mary Llanfair Psalm 72. [1–9] 10–15 9:15am* St. Bridget Skenfrith Ephesians 3.1–12 11:00am St. Nicholas Grosmont Matthew 2.1–12 11:00am St. Cadoc Llangattock Lingoed *Family Service 12 January Epiphany 2 Baptism of Christ

Isaiah 42.1–9 9:15am** St. Mary Llanfair Psalm 29 9:15am St. Bridget Skenfrith Acts 10.34–43 11:00am St. Nicholas Grosmont Matthew 3.13–end ** Morning Prayer

19 January Epiphany 3 - Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

Isaiah 49.1–7 9:15am St. Mary Llanfair Psalm 40.1–12 9:15am** St. Bridget Skenfrith 1 Corinthians 1.1–9 11:00am* St. Nicholas Grosmont John 1.29–42 ** Morning Prayer *Family Service 26 January Epiphany 4

Isaiah 9.1–4 9:15am St. Mary Llanfair Psalm 27.1, 4–12 [or 27.1–11] 9:15am St. Bridget Skenfrith 1 Corinthians 1.10–18 11:00am St. Nicholas Grosmont Matthew 4.12–23 From the Registers Baptism

Marriage

Burial 29 November Jane Powell St. Nicholas, Grosmont

We offer our condolences to the bereaved

37

PARISH CONTACTS

P g : v . G T , G , A g v NP 8EP T : 01981 240361 E : vg @g . : v . A w H v . L C v g M S I ( ) M M (O ) E L M , P N k , J P , J S g g O v . G

G : Wardens: J 01981 240436 M k P 01981 2403 0 Treasurer L M PCC Sec: A w H Na e bookings: A w H Organist: 01981 240301

L g Wardens: M g M 018 3 821210 S T 018 3 821 42 PCC Sec: J Treasurer D v M

L g L g Wardens: P 0 399 6 4110 C P 018 3 821240 Treasurer and organist: C P PCC Sec: E Ev

S : Wardens: D N , v x w Sk . Treasurer: P 0 9 3 831309 PCC Sec: P V Organist: Nelson Whaley 07866 267144 S B g A P k 01600 0434 U L K M G Z E Editor: Gilliy Burgess Email: [email protected] 38 COMMUNITY CALENDAR JANUARY 2020 (New Events in bold) Further information on these Events can be found on the Grosmont Village Website: www.grosmont.wales JANUARY 3 Archery in the Nave. Friday evenings from 5.30pm. Cost £3.00 per head per session. Dates this month 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 January. (www.llangattockarchers.co.uk) 6 Grosmont Book Club – 7.30pm in the Angel Inn. The book this month is “Bee Keeping in Aleppo” by Christy Lefteri. The book in February is “Painter of Si- lence” by Georgina Harding. 6 Bridge Club. Monday 2.30pm – 4.30pm in Grosmont Town Hall Enquiries: 01981 240301. Dates this month are 6, 13, 20 and 27 January. 6 Longtown & District Historical Society at Longtown Village Hall, 7.30pm Dr Ann Benson: Raglan Castle and its place on the national stage during the Renais- sance Members free, otherwise £3. All welcome Further info: jere- [email protected] 8 Ewyas Harold U3A. “The Moon from Myth to Landings and Beyond” presented by Peter Williamson, a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and BBC Radio Astronomy Presenter. 2.00pm in Ewyas Harold Memorial Hall.

9 January Bible Study group 3.00pm. 01873 821404 for details (NB new time) 10 Grosmont Events Meeting 7:30-21:00 Town Hall (TO BE CONFIRMED)

13 Community Council Meeting – 7.30 in Grosmont Town Hall. 14 Messy Church: Messy Church will be held in the Church in Grosmont until further notice in the aftermath of the floods at Skenfrith from 4.00pm to 6.00pm for craft work, a time of worship and singing, and a shared two-course meal. All children with their parents/carers welcome. Free of charge. 14 Grosmont Crafters. Informal Craft Group – all abilities and interests welcome. We meet on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month, 7.00pm - 9.00pm in Grosmont Town Hall. £2.00 per session. Meetings this month 14 and 28 January. For more information ring 01981 241662. 15 Grosmont Futures Meeting – 7.00pm to 8.30pm in Grosmont Town Hall. 18 Grosmont Events – Quiz night starts 7.30 in Grosmont Town Hall. £3.00 per person to include glass of wine and nibbles. 19 Third Sunday Cafe Church. 11.00am Cross Ash Hall. All Welcome 21 Garway Heritage Group: presentation by Tony Usher on 'Connecting People in Herefordshire -- from Roman roads to Victorian steam engines' 7.30 at Garway Community Centre, HR2 8RQ. Free to members, £5 for visitors to include refresh- ments. 23 Bible Study group 3.00pm. 01873 821404 for details (NB new time) 28 Coffee and Chat in St Nicholas. An invitation for coffee and cake. 10.00am – 12.00noon. Everyone welcome. 39

FEBRUARY

3 Grosmont Book Club – 7.30pm in the Angel Inn. The book this month is “Painter of Silence” by Georgina Harding. The book in March is “Lorna Doone” by J.D. Blackmore. 3 Bridge Club. Monday 2.30pm – 4.30pm in Grosmont Town Hall Enquir- ies: 01981 240301. Dates this month are 3, 10, 17 and 24 February. 4 Grosmont and District Gardening Club. “Creating a No Dig Garden” Cherry Taylor. For more information contact Marion 01981 241161. ([email protected]) (http://grosmont.wales/grosmont-and- district- gardening-club). The Club now has its own Facebook Page. 7 Archery in the Nave. Friday evenings from 5.30pm. Cost £3.00 per head per session. Dates this month 7, 14, 21 and 28 February. (www.llangattockarchers.co.uk)

7 Grosmont Events Meeting 7:30-21:00 Town Hall (TO BE CONFIRMED)

11 Messy Church: Messy Church will be held in the Church in Grosmont until further notice in the aftermath of the floods at Skenfrith from 4.00pm to 6.00pm for craft work, a time of worship and singing, and a shared two-course meal. All children with their parents/carers wel- come. Free of charge.

11 Grosmont Crafters. Informal Craft Group – all abilities and interests wel- come. We meet on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month, 7.00pm - 9.00pm in Grosmont Town Hall. £2.00 per session. Meetings this month 11 and 25 February. For more information ring 01981 241662.

12 Ewyas Harold U3A. “Banned by the BBC – We Can’t let you Broadcast That!” A lighthearted look at some of the decisions made to protect us from unspeakable harm – David Clark. 2.00pm in Ewyas Harold Memo- rial Hall.

18 Garway Heritage Group: Dr Ann Benson, ‘Raglan Castle, a Renaissance Palace of National Importance’, 7.30 pm at Garway Community Hall, HR2 8rQ. All welcome - £5 entrance fee for non-members includes re- freshments.

25 Coffee and Chat in St Nicholas. An invitation for coffee and cake. 10.00am – 12.00noon. Everyone welcome. 40 MARCH

2 Grosmont Book Club – 7.30pm in the Angel Inn. The book this month is “Lorna Doone” by J.D. Blackmore. 2 Bridge Club. Monday 2.30pm – 4.30pm in Grosmont Town Hall Enquir- ies: 01981 240301. Dates this month are 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 March. 3 Grosmont and District Gardening Club. “Adventures of a Seed Detective” Adam Alexander. For more information contact Marion 01981 241161. ([email protected]) (http://grosmont.wales/ grosmont-and-district- gardening-club). The Club now has its own Facebook Page. 6 Archery in the Nave. Friday evenings from 5.30pm. Cost £3.00 per head per session. Dates this month 6, 13, 20 and 27 March. (www.llangattockarchers.co.uk)

9 Community Council Meeting – 7.30 in Grosmont Town Hall.

10 Messy Church: Messy Church will be held in the Church in Grosmont until further notice in the aftermath of the floods at Skenfrith from 4.00pm to 6.00pm for craft work, a time of worship and singing, and a shared two-course meal. All children with their parents/carers wel- come. Free of charge.

10 Grosmont Crafters. Informal Craft Group – all abilities and interests wel- come. We meet on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month, 7.00pm - 9.00pm in Grosmont Town Hall. £2.00 per session. Meetings this month 10 and 24 March. For more information ring 01981 241662.

11 Ewyas Harold U3A. “Remember the Swinging Sixties” – Mike Watkins and Wilma Hayes of inthestickstalks.co.uk 2.00pm in Ewyas Harold Me- morial Hall. MA CH

17 Garway Heritage Group: Heather Hurley, ‘Kentchurch Court and the Scudamores’, 7.30 in Garway Community Hall, HR2 8RQ. All welcome - £5 entrance fee for non-members incl. refreshments.

24 Coffee and Chat in St Nicholas. An invitation for coffee and cake. 10.00am – 12.00noon. Everyone welcome.

41

January feels like the time for new beginnings and it’s a great time to start a new activity or sport. Sometimes the early part of the year can be isolating because of the weather and short, dark days. In our community calendar pages you can find all kinds of ways to beat the winter blues. It can seem daunting to go and join in a club or activity for the first time, but there is a first time for everything, and you can be assured of a warm welcome at any of the clubs and events.

St Nicholas Church has a ring of six bells which are rung for festival services, weddings and funerals etc. The ringers practise on the first Tuesday of the month (together with a fifth Tuesday, if there is one) from 7.30 – 9.00 pm. We are always looking for newcomers to join the group, whether you are an experienced ringer or a total novice – just turn up on the Tuesday evening Check out the notice board outside

Grosmont Town Hall for more activities to enjoy. Don’t be lonely, join in!

There is a Grosmont Quiz Team which, on a Sunday evening during the winter months, plays in the Abergavenny League. It is known as The Temple as it plays out of the Temple Bar in Ewyas Harold. For more information please contact us via the Grosmont website.

Why not volunteer your time with Grosmont Events? The events team put on all kinds of events and activities for our community to enjoy. Quiz nights, community meals, music, children’s crafts at the Grosmont Market etc. Willing hands are always welcome and everyone is invited to come along to the meetings and to contribute ideas and experience. It’s by the community ,for the community, and everyone’s help is greatly valued and appreciated. Come along to the next meeting on 10th Jan at 7.30 in the Town Hall (to be confirmed)

and find out how you can get involved.

42 Green T: Massage therapy FINANCE FOR BUSINESSES

Tanya Ong offers Swedish Massage, Hot Stone Therapy and Indian Head Massage in Funding arranged for:- 30/60 minute sessions. Relax in the private therapy room situated in the heart • machinery, of Part-Y-Seal. Massage is ideal for stress relief and relieving muscle tension. • vehicles Pure relaxation is the order of the day so • take advantage of the peaceful premises surroundings and • land book a massage now either for yourself or • alternative energy projects as a unique gift for someone special! gift working capital vouchers available. Part-Y- For a local, personal service please contact: Seal, Grosmont, Steve Morgan Abergavenny, NP7 8LE Mobile: 07342 651040

Tel: 01981 240814 E-mail: www.partyseal.co.uk [email protected]

KEITH HOCKEY PLUMBING AND HEATING SERVICES MOBILE 079 0 442 7 HOG S HEAD, TREADAM , ABREGAVENNY, NP7 8TA

OFTEC REGISTERED NVQ ACCREDITED OIL INSTALLATIONS 43

GERALD BENJAMIN ELECTRICAL SERVICES

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DOMESTIC, INDUSTRIAL, AGRICUL- TURAL OR COMMERCIAL TESTING AND INSPECTING

CONTACT ME FOR A QUOTE ON

TELEPHONE 01981 80 129 FAX 01981 80 129 MOBILE 07971 8 2 873

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St Nicholas Church Grosmont Julian Tooley s a fine medieval building but, much more than that, it is also the people of the com- Independent munity who live and work in i Funeral our beautiful parish. The church stands as a powerful reminder of Director and what community life meant to the people of past centuries; to- Monumental Mason day it remains a symbol for

24hr personal service shared experience and the spirit of community. For baptisms,

weddings, funerals and other oc- Telephone casional services please contact

01873 855 120 the Ministry Team. 44 ?

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