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Community News and Events Round
up
If you want your news and events to
appear here and in the Gwent Gazette's "In touch" community
column for Abertillery,
contact us by emailing
tillerygazette@yahoo.co.uk or drop/post
it to
Cybertyleri, c/o Communities First Offices, The Arcade, Abertillery,
NP13 1DH or phone 01495 354723
October 29th 2008
ABERTILLERY YOUTH DRAMA & MUSIC SOCIETY NEWS
The
Society was very proud to receive the following review from Mrs Dee
McIlroy, Regional Representative, who came to see our production of ‘The
Wizard of Oz’ in February this year, in the Autumn Edition of the NODA
News (National Operatic Dramatic Association).
‘The
Wizard of Oz’
Producer: Gareth Phillips – Musical Director: John Harris –
Choreographer: Alison Davies
‘This
was the best production of the Wizard of Oz that I have seen for a long
time; it recreated the famous film so well. We were taken to Kansas and
every detail was in place with an exceptional portrayal by Zoe Ashmead
of Dorothy; she was perfect, diction, singing, dancing and costume.
Melissa Llewellyn was a feisty Aunt Em and the twister scene had very
good effects with realistic sound. Costumes by ACE and Joan Thomas were
high class. The well lit Munchkin set was an amazing blend of colours
and there were excellent Munchkin dancers with a scene stealer tiny
one! I was very impressed with Lauran Hodges as Gloria in the Emerald
City and Hannah Webley as the Sorceress of the North. Once again it was
the subtlety of the lighting by Steve Baker that gave this show the edge
and a very good cast of well rehearsed and talented young people.
Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion, Andrew Southall, Tom Phillips and
Jamie Southall all played their parts convincingly and with super fun.
Joshua Lovell gave his all as The Wizard of Oz, and an energised cast
and chorus enhanced every scene. The Wicked Witch of the West, a
marvellous witch too, was played by Kellan Groves. What a magical
musical this is, and a great deal of thought and planning had gone into
this production, well done! Thank you for your hospitality and
congratulations to Producer Gareth Phillips, MD Musical Director John
Harris and all the team.’
We
felt it only right that our talented young cast and hard working
Production Team share their proud moment with the people of Abertillery
without whose support it would all be in vain. Thanks also to those who
gave financial assistance especially The Communities First Trust Fund,
The Millennium Stadium Charitable Trust, Blaenau Gwent CBC, many
individual Councillors and Co-operative Funeral Care.
The
Society is hard at work now, rehearsing and raising funds for our next
production, ‘Fame – the Musical’ to be staged at the Met in February
2009. We will be Bag Packing at Tesco, Abertillery between 10am and 2pm
on Saturday 15th November and Asda, Brynmawr on Wednesday 17th
December at 6pm. On Friday 21st November we will be holding
a Fund Raising Evening, Karaoke plus Special Guests at the Six Bells
Hotel from 7.30pm, admission £2. Our thanks to Jan, Lucy and Linda for
offering to hold this event. If you would like to help our Society in
anyway please contact our Secretary, Tracy Phillips on 01495 217049
after 6pm.
FFIN DANCE HONOUR
FFIN DANCE based in Abertillery has been selected to perform at the
glittering Awards Ceremony of the International Festival for Digital
Art on Saturday October 3rd, 2009 at the magnificent Riverfront Theatre
& Arts Centre in Newport.
This year long International event is unique and celebrates the best
that the globe has to offer in the fields of digital audio, video and
print excellence. FFIN DANCE Artistic Director Sue Lewis said 'I am
delighted that the company has been invited to perform at this most
prestigious event, the work we produce will sit really well within the
spirit of the Festival. Our use of physicality in dance terms will be
enhanced by digital imagery creating a cutting edge, up to the minute
visual art'
Executive Chair of IFDA, John Wake says, 'We want to support
local talent and especially talent that fits into a modern idiom. Ffin
Dance can enhance our event and I am sure will add to the drama of the
awards evening'.
HELPING
HANDS
Adam Street Community Allotments are fortunate to have
eager volunteers who are helping to prepare plots and build raise beds
for our less-able plot holders. Eight youngsters from Tools 4 Ur
Future (a project supported by Communities First) are coming on site
twice a week to clear away rough overgrowth ready for raised beds.
Blaenau Gwent Social Services have also been on site with four gentlemen
from Community Options who come along once a week to help by digging
over plots, preparing paths and who have also been harvesting carrots
and swedes.
SMART
MONEY CREDIT UNION
Credit Unions are a saving and loans organisation. It is owned and run
by its members, credit union members save together and create a pool of
money from which low cost loans are made. Caerphilly & District Credit
Union had been established since 1989 and has recently merged with
Blaenau Gwent-based Save It Credit Union forming the newly launched
Smart Money Credit Union.
Anyone can become a member of a Credit union as we also run a
junior section for those under 18. To become a member you need 2 forms
of ID one with a photograph if possible and one with your address and £3
to join and to activate your savings. The common bond that we have to
abide by for members to join is that they either live or work in
boroughs of Blaenau Gwent or Caerphilly. All credit unions are regulated
by the FSA and are covered by the same compensation schemes that banks
and building are covered by.
We have service points all over the two boroughs; you can also pay
into your account by standing order, PayPoint cards or having your
benefits paid in directly.
Credit union membership makes sense to everyone regardless of your
financial situation.
Anyone interested please contact the main office on 029 2088 3751
REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICES
On
Sunday 9th November, Christchurch Aberbeeg, will be holding two
Remembrance Day Services.
The
morning service will be at 11.15 am, when as well as the normal
Eucharist Service, we will be honouring the service men who died in the
two world wars and are buried in the churchyard at Christchurch. Part
way through the service small bunches of flowers will be blessed and
placed on the War Graves.
There are nine War Graves in the churchyard and we would like to invite
members of these families to join us at the morning service to place the
flowers. The names of the servicemen are as follows:
Sergeant C D R Verrier
Private R H Smith
Flying Officer G C Owens
Private G E Compton
Seaman J Lowry
Private F Perry
Driver H Wilson
Private F Taylor
Sergeant G W Willis
If
you would like further information on this, please contact Pauline Chubb
on 01495 214422
The
evening service will be held at 6.00 p.m. when members of the
Abertillery branch of the Royal British Legion together with
representatives of the Blaina branch of the Air Training Corps to lay
wreaths in the Memorial Chapel will be present. The service will be
conducted by the Dean of Blaenau Gwent, the Rev. Roger Hewett (Rector of
Blaina and Nantyglo). Everyone is welcome and there are light
refreshments available afterwards. Further information on the evening
service can be obtained for Bill Jones on 01495 216728, Church Warden
Mark Timothy on 01495 725623 or parish secretary, Kate Terrell, on 01495
217912.
BIG BANG
COMES TO ABERTILLERY.
Abertillery & Blaina Rotary Club & Abertillery Round Table are pleased
to announce that the Fireworks display held at
Abertillery Park will return this year on Wednesday 5th
November. This year will be the 40th anniversary of the
event and it is probably the oldest event in the valleys and certainly
the best. The display has been redesigned this year by Highlight
Pyrotechnics and will be a spectacular display for those viewing from
the terraces in the park. Please support the event, as the committee has
made a very large loss over the last two years, as a result of
legislation and the extra safety measures required, and has only
continued to run the event as long standing a community service for the
town, but this could be the last year it is held. Tickets and more
details will be available in the next few weeks.
HEALTHY LIVING
WEEK
As part of national Healthy Living Week (1st -8th
November), the Communities First partnerships in Abertillery and
Cwmtillery together with community partners are running out a series of
events in the community ranging from our usual Wednesday walks (around
Abergavenny – transport is provided free but booking advised in view of
the growing popularity of these walks), healthy Bush Tucker trials at
schools and a healthy kitchen cafe at Paul’s Church Cwmtillery on the
afternoon of Thursday 6th November. The week will kick off
with a get stuck in session together with BTCV at Upper Gwastod
allotments in Cwmtillery throughout the day – for more details on the
events contact us on 01495 354723.
MUSEUM NEWS AND
EVENTS
The next lecture is on Wednesday 5th November by Tony Jukes
on ‘Coal Shipping in south Wales ports’ – entry is £2 and the public are
most welcome. A Christmas Fayre is being held at Ebenezer Chapel on
Saturday 8th November between 9.30am and 1pm where there will
be stalls and refreshments together with a visit from Santa - entry is
free. There is a social evening on Tuesday 25th November at
the Commercial Hotel with entertainment and light refreshments tickets
at £3 are available from the museum.
October 14th 2008
ENJOY A ‘GIRLS NIGHT IN’ AT ABERTILLERY LIBRARY
Calling
all ladies - why not cheer yourself up with a free pamper session at
Abertillery Library this month?
The Body Shop will be giving mini facials and manicures and there will
be hair care advice from Kutz and Kurlz hairdressers, plus nail art and
jewellery making.
Welsh author Louise Walsh will also be there to chat about her book
‘Fighting Pretty’ - looking at the challenges facing women in Wales.
Inspired by a photo of her grandfather, Liz turns her energies to
amateur Welsh boxing and immediately finds herself facing up to macho
trainers, ex-pros, injuries, and insults. With intense dedication and a
network of support, Liz eventually learns to fight her own battles both
in and out of the ring.
‘Girls Night In’ takes place on Monday 20 October 2008, between 7pm and
9pm.
For more information about this event or other events taking place at
Blaenau Gwent libraries, call 01495 212332
BOURNVILLE HELP WANTED
Bournville Residents and Tenants Association are looking for volunteers
to help out with laying the new block pavior slabs in and around their
new play park area, and then landscaping the remaining grass area. The
group will be meeting on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 October at 10 am with
a free buffet lunch to complete the project. There’s a job for everyone!
Your help will be greatly appreciated. The Cwmtillery branch of Travis
Perkins Builders Merchants have kindly come on board to work with the
RTA and have provided free of charge block pavior slabs to complete the
park project. The group wishes to give their thanks to the manager Paul
Jessop and his staff for their support so far. If you would like more
information or to register your interest in helping out please contact
Amanda, Cwmtillery Communities First on 01495 354721 - you could bank
your time with Tillery Time Banking and enjoy the rewards too!
CWMTILLERY WARD
COMMUNITIES FIRST PARTNERSHIP ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The Annual General Meeting of the
Cwmtillery
Communities First Partnership takes place on Thursday 23rd
October at the Learning Action Centre, adjacent to Abertillery
Comprehensive School, commencing at 5.45pm. If you wish to be part of
the partnership and help make a real difference to all sections of the
communities within the Cwmtillery ward, you would be very welcome. To
find out more, contact David on 01495 354722 or come along on the
evening.
CHRISTMAS WINE, ALE AND CHEESE TASTING
Abertillery Lions Club (Blaenau Gwent Valleys) will be holding Christmas
Wine, Ale and Cheese Tasting Evening at The Corner Club, Abertillery on
Wednesday 26th November 2008
at
7.30pm. Tickets are available from Ash’s in the
Arcade
or on the night and cost £5 which includes 6 wine tastings.
LIVE BANDS
Rob and Cheryl in the Penndragon would like to let people know that they
are currently running live bands on a Saturday night.
30TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS
Were you a member of the Blaenau Gwent Otters swimming club for disabled
people? If so we would like to invite you to help us celebrate our 30th
Anniversary with a Party and Presentation Evening on
Saturday November 1st 2008.
Tickets are £5 and include a Disco and Buffet. For more information,
ring Derrick Brown on 01495 305331
HATS OFF TO DEB AND WENDY!
Well done to Deb Jones and her friend Wendy of Abertillery, who took
part in The Great North Run in Newcastle last Sunday. They completed a
whopping 13.1 miles in approximately 2.5 hours and raised £1700 between
them for Breast Cancer. Although they had to forfeit a few luxuries
(namely food and alcohol) in preparation for the half marathon - it was
well worth it! And they are planning to do it again next year. Well done
girls - all the hard work has paid off!
OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD
On Saturday 18th October pupils from Nantyglo Comprehensive,
representing their Eco committee will be bag packing at Tesco
Abertillery in aid of Operation Christmas Child between 10am and 2.30pm.
Last year they collected 100 boxes and hope to double the numbers this
year and are grateful for any donations. For further details contact
Karen Lewis at Tesco on 01495 267615 or Stephanie Werrett at Nantyglo
Comprehensive on 01495 310776
ABERTILLERY GUIDES
Are you aged between 10 and 14 or 14 and 18 then why not come along to
Abertillery Guides? We meet at the Salvation Army Hall on Fridays
6.45pm until 8.30pm. We are always looking for enthusiastic girls that
want a new challenge. Our Guides are a friendly group and want to
welcome new girls to expand our unit .If you are looking for something
different to do, then why not come along and have some fun.
ORPHEUS NEWS
We have received the following: “The choir is in Cheltenham this weekend
and looking forward to the 31st October in the Metropole when
we will be with the Harmoni de Royat, a French wind band. It's the first
time they have been in Abertillery and hopefully we will have a full
house for their visit. Tickets are on sale at the door. The next day we
are in Newcastle Emlyn for our first visit there. We have had a lot of
new places this year more than we could handle with the number going up
all the time – but we'll do all we can to fit them in.”
BIG
BANG COMES TO ABERTILLERY
Abertillery & Blaina Rotary Club and Abertillery Round Table are pleased
that the Fireworks Display held at Abertillery Park will return this
year on Wednesday 5th November. This year will be the 40th
anniversary of the event- it is probably the oldest in the valleys and
certainly the best. The display has been designed this year by Highlight
Pyrotechnics and will be spectacular for those viewing from the terraces
in the park. Please support the event as the committee has made a loss
over the last two years as a result of legislation and the extra safety
measures required. The future of the event next year could be in danger
if public support is not forthcoming. Tickets and more details will be
available in the next week.
SIX
BELLS REGENERATION TEAM
Have you ever thought about getting involved in what is happening in Six
Bells? Would you like to voice your opinions and work with like minded
people to make positive changes to the Community? If so, why not get
involved with the Six Bells Regeneration Team (SBRT). You don’t need to
be an expert, just willing to help get improvements made to Six Bells.
The friendly, informal meetings are held at the Six Bells Hotel at
6.00pm and their AGM will be taking place on Monday 20th
October so it will be an ideal time to get voted onto the team. For more
info please call 01495 354757.
SIX
BELLS YOUTH NIGHT
Are you aged between 12-17 years old and are looking for something to do
to keep you occupied on a Monday evening? If so then why not come down
to St Johns Church on Griffin Street between 6 and 8. There are plenty
of activities to do such as pool, games, music, discos, trips and
Internet and all for just 20p entrance fee. For more information
please contact Youth projects officer Claire Gardner on 01495 354673.
SIX
BELLS FOOD COOP
Six Bells Food Coop takes place every Friday at St Johns Church, Griffin
Street, Six Bells 9.30am – 10.30am. Orders for great value fruit, veg,
salad and eggs can be placed every Friday for the following week or by
calling 01495 354757 by Thursday morning. FRUIT BAGS cost £2.50, VEG BAGS
£2.50, SALAD BAGS £1.50 and EGGS 50P per ½ Dozen. If you are interested
in helping out with the Food Co-op, call into St Johns Church or contact
Tina/Bethan on 01495 354757
GWENT
ASSOCIATION FOR THE BLIND
Come to our free celebration on Tuesday 28th October 2008 between 10-1 at Coleg Gwent, Ebbw Vale Campus, College
Road, Ebbw Vale. Join us for fresh cakes, fruit and tea and coffee.
ROTARY
NEWS
Bob
Hall, the Rotary Press Officer has sent the following:- “During the
month of November we are again working hard to put on our annual
Fireworks display in the past. Delays have been caused due to the need
to balance our costs and provide a good display. The partnership between
the Roundtable and the Rotary over the past 30 years has meant that the
residents of Abertillery have been able to enjoy a fireworks display of
the highest standard. Safety is of paramount concern to us and the event
is well marshalled and with the help of the local authority road access
is always controlled. It is proposed that the use of Tesco’s Car Park
will once again be available. So put Wednesday 5th November
in your diaries and come to Abertillery Park and have a great time in a
safe environment.
Sadly we
have received the news that vice-president Mike Wyatt’s dad Ron has
unfortunately passed away - we all send our condolences to Mike and
family.
Rotary
also works all over the world and is in partnership with Bill Gates of
Microsoft to finally eradicate polio. We are to match the million
dollars that Mr Gates as provided and each rotary club will donate money
to ensure this happens.
Locally
our club is to face Abergavenny in the first round of the quiz - we will
have to play them before the end of November and we await confirmation
of dates and venues.
If you
feel that you have something to contribute to your community and enjoy
good companionship and have the time to spare, contact Rotarian Alan
Thorpe on 212423 for an informal discussion.
TILLERY
WEDNESDAY WALKS
The next
walk is on 15th October at Abertillery Park walking the Ebbw
Fach river trail, meeting 1:30pm at Abertillery Park car park. On
Wednesday 22nd October, the group will be going to Ebbw Val
for the Darby Trail – transport will be provided. If you like great
company, want to explore more about our surroundings and history and the
local area, then you are very welcome to come along. There is no cost
for the transport or the walks! Contact Chloe at Communities First on
01495 354723 for details.
October 7th 2008
Abertillery Land Girl’s belated recognition
The Second World War
efforts of an Abertillery ex-pat, 93-year old Elizabeth Jones, who now
resides in Burnham on Sea, have been recognised over 60 years later when
she was recently awarded a commemorative badge for her service as a Land
Girl. Elizabeth (nee also Jones), better known as “Nellie”, was born in
Portland Street in Abertillery and worked in Usk having joined the
women’s land army in 1941. She was delighted to receive her award and we
are very grateful to her nephew Gareth Jones, who resides in Canada, for
bringing this wonderful news to our attention. Well done, Nellie!
Calling
mothers and carers
Sticky Fingers playgroup welcomes all tots and carers. Fun and
activities every Monday, Tuesday and Friday at the Scouts Hut, Penybont
Road. £1 and all are made to feel very welcome. For more details ring
Amanda on 0786610639.
Cubs and
Scouts vacancies
There are vacancies in Cubs and Scouts at the Abertillery Scouts
hut. Cubs aged between 8 and 10 and a half and meet on Mondays 6.30 to
8.30, and Scouts for those aged between 10 and a half and 14, Fridays
7-9pm. For more details ring Amanda on 07866110639.
St John’s news
The people of St John's Church, Six Bells have asked us to let you know that the Holy Eucharist will
now be celebrated each Sunday at
3.30pm. In addition, there will be a weekday Eucharist each Thursday at
12.30pm
followed by a frugal lunch. The parish of Six Bells is now again served
from Abertillery, so if you would to speak to a priest on any pastoral
matter the person to contact is Father Patrick Coleman on 1495 212246. A
warm welcome awaits you if you would like to get involved with this
friendly community church, get along.
An evening of relaxation and meditation
An evening of relaxation and meditation We all have busy lives and feel
exhausted from time to time, so why not give yourself a few hours a
week, and enjoy time out with Karen, relaxing and meditating starting on
the 29th September 7:30 - 9pm. For more info contact Karen on
07815856499 come along look forward to seeing you
Joint forces
FFIN DANCE is collaborating with designer Steve Denton and with French
band Orchestre d'Harmonie du Royat for a performance on Friday, October
31 at 7:00pm at The Met
Orpheus News
This report has been submitted by the Abertillery Orpheus Male Choir:
“Saturday saw the first of our full concerts for the last part of this
year at Clevedon Baptist
Church. Owing to late arrival because of a road closure, it was change
and on stage to start on time. There were some old some new and some
items that hadn't been on our programme for a long time. We started with
a rousing Men of Harlech, followed by She was Beautiful and then They
Call the Wind Maria.
The guest was Miss Aurelia Webley who sang her first two
songs and then the choir came on for The Rose and Drunken Sailor.
Aurelia thrilled us with two more before the choir finished the first
half with Jubilate, arranged for our centenary by by Mr Martin Budd,
Llef and Marching.
The second half started with Do you hear the people sing,
Bring him home and Empty Chairs at Empty Tables all from Les Miserables.
Aurelia gave us two more songs and the choir sang Rhythm of life and
This is the Moment. Two more items by Aurelia preceded the choir’s
intended last three numbers, Stout hearted men, Va pensiero and The
Battle Hymn of the Republic, but with every one singing the chorus, the
cry afterwards for more seemed to go on and on, so we sang everyone’s
favourite Myfanwy before ending with Mae Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau.
After the
concert, we were given a wonderful spread and we then went to the bowls
club where we were treated to a good night singing to the enjoyment of
the people there and the choir members. We would like to thank the
Clevedon Baptist Church for every thing
World Mental Health Day Information event
An information event is being hosted jointly by Age Concern and
Abertillery Communities First
on Friday 10th October
at The Institute, Powell Street, Abertillery between 10 and 2pm. Try
your hand at some Arts & Crafts! Greeting cards + bookmarkers in the
morning, Scrap booking in the afternoon! Bring along some photos and we
will show you how to display them. Have fun with gentle exercise and get
your blood pressure, weight and height checked out! Enjoy free fruit
kebabs & smoothies, free energy saving light bulbs & power down plugs!
Information & Advice from:
Alzheimer’s Society
Care & Repair
Citizens
Advice Bureaux
Crime
prevention from the Bobby Scheme!
Council
Tax/Housing Benefit
DAFS
(Drug Alcohol Family Support)
Hafal
Hi-Help Inside Counselling Service
Job Match
MIND
T.O.P.S
(Tax for older people)
September 30th 2008
CONNECT
A multi
arts week for the community
Monday
6 October – Saturday 11 October 2008 at 11am and 5pm
-
ABERTILLERY TOWN
CENTRE
-
THE ARCADE
-
CWMTILLERY LAKES
-
THE GREEN WALK AND
UNDERPASS
-
CWMTILLERY PIT WHEELS
EACH
DAY THERE WILL BE 2 FREE SESSIONS IN
dance –
music – art - free running and juggling
if you
would like your group to take part,or for more information
contact
FFIN DANCE on 07854 910926
www.ffindance.co.uk
this
event is partly funded by Awards For All Wales Heritage
Balloon race
results
The
balloon race run by the Friends of Christchurch (Aberbeeg) raised the
sum of £592.40. 630 balloons were launched and balloon number 118
travelled as far as Shrewsbury. The winners were Mrs Eileen Warfield of
Abertillery and Mr J Hetherington of Shrewsbury and each received
£25.Many thanks to Gwyn George Partnership (solicitors) of Blackwood who
sponsored our event and to all those who took part,a donation of £100 is
to go to Christian Aide
Ploughmans Night
On Saturday 4th
October there will be a Ploughmans Night in Christchurch Aberbeeg at 7pm
.a Ploughmans supper will be available and entertainment will be
provided by Mr Leslie Price( a local vocalist) Tickets are £5 each and a
donation to the Hospice of the Valleys will be made from the proceeds,
everyone is welcome. For further details contact Sue Bruten on 01495
212886 or 214467
Blaenau
Gwent Heritage Forum Open Day
Blaenau
Gwent Heritage Forum is holding its annual day school on
Saturday 4th October 2008
at Ysgol Gymraeg Brynmawr Welsh School. This year the topics will be
related to landscape and tourism in industrial South Wales. For the
price of a £5 ticket you will be able to hear four speakers and have a
buffet lunch.
This year our speakers include:-
Dr. Madeleine Gray senior lecturer in history
at the
University
of Wales Newport contributor to the Gwent County History Vol 2 and an
editor to Volume 3 of the same work.
Dr. Stephen Briggs recently retired from the
Royal Commission for Ancient and Historic monuments, he has most
recently been involved in establishing a database on historic gardens.
Mr. Roger Morgan who works for CADW and whose
entertaining talks on the Zulu war and Medical practices through the
ages are well known in the area.
Tickets are on sale at Beaufort Theatre box
office.
Birthday Greetings
This
message came in just too late for inclusion last week, so Sian, Gail and
all the family would like to wish a belated Happy 75th
Birthday to Mrs. Margaret Olding of Six Bells whose birthday 24th
September.
Cawl,
Cakes and Quiz
The Men's Fellowship of Blaenau Gwent Baptist Church are holding a Cawl,
Cakes and Table Quiz night on Friday 10th October, commencing at
7pm. All proceeds from the evening will go to: The Reverend
Thomas Moses in aid of his Orphanage Project, of the Bethesda Ministries
in
India.
The money will provide essential books and other school
necessities for those children that attend the Orphanage.
Everyone is welcome, and if you are not particularly good at
quizzes, it really doesn't matter. I can recommend the Cawl and Cakes.
Our very own Pastor Bob will also be doing a ten minute slot,
showing some photographs of the development of the Orphanage, and I'm
sure you will appreciate the work that's been put into this project with
limited funding.
Tickets for the event are £5.00 each, and you can obtain these
from Mike Williams: Tel: 01495 217022 or Pastor Bob: 01495 321359.
We look forward to seeing you, for what I'm sure will be an
enjoyable and worthwhile evening.
Pantomime dates
Brynmawr Amateur Pantomime Society's pantomime this year is 'Goldilocks and the Three Bears'.
It is on from Tuesday 2nd December - Saturday 6th December with a
matinee on the Saturday at the Beaufort Theatre. Ticket prices are £5.00
for adults, £3.50 for Children and OAP's. They can be obtained from Ros
Thomas (01495) 310597 or Carolyn Regan (01495) 292100
September 25th 2008
RUGBY FUN DAY
FOR YOUNGSTERS
Abertillery Mini & Junior RFC invites all children from 6 to 16
irrespective of sex or ability to try rugby at our annual Fun Day on
Sunday 28th September. The day starts at 10.30 and runs
through to about 14.00. There will be food and drink provided free and
all kids can take part in different events all aimed at improving ball
skills. If you need any further information please contact Jonathan on
0785 227 0006 or Mike on 07940 021623. Hope to see you there.
BIRTHDAY GIFT
THANKS
Janice Britton would like to thank everyone for all the lovely gifts and
cards she received for her 40th birthday.
ORPHEUS NEWS
We have received the following from the Abertillery Orpheus Male Choir:
“On Saturday the
choir and guests were at the Old Rectory to celebrate the centenary of
the Choir. Over 100 people attended the evening which the chairman
opened by welcoming every one. After the meal our president Mr Martin
Budd addressed us with an outline of the past as well as hoping we would
have a long and successful future.
The second half
of the evening was entertainment provided by a Gentleman who kept things
going with songs and jokes then it was on to the bus and home. A good
night was had by all.
Monday saw the
choir sing for a dinner of 600 people at the Celtic Manor, a frequent
venue for the choir and indeed we are back down there for another
concert on Thursday 17th September. Ten days later. we are the other
side of the bridge in Clevedon Baptist Church.
This has been a
year we won't forget, among the highlights being Worthing at Easter for
the weekend then the Royal Marines Band concert Abertillery people which
people are still talking about.
We are now
starting the last few months of the year a long list of concerts in
different parts including Cheltenham, Abertillery with a French wind
band, and Newcastle Emlyn.
BUILDING ON
SUCCESS
The Tools 4 UR Future project set up jointly by Communities First
partnerships in Abertillery and Cwmtillery wards to engage disaffected
pupils in Blaenau Gwent is starting a third successful session. It began
in 06/07 academic year and involved 10 boys from Abertillery
Comprehensive School. The pupils were able to try motivational courses
as well as vocational training and had the opportunity to attend outward
bound courses and quad biking days where the activities were recorded
and used for their Key Skills qualifications.
The second phase
in the 07/08 academic year was broadened to include pupils from both
Abertillery and Nantyglo Comprehensive Schools. The retention rate was
better than expected and 5 pupils obtained 12 months’ contracts with the
United Welsh Housing Association and Quadron which will further enhance
their chances of acquiring full-time employment.
The new round of
the Tools project started on the 11 September and has 50 pupils from the
comprehensive schools of Blaenau Gwent, the project will run for the
full academic year. This has been supported by all the Communities First
wards in Blaenau Gwent.
Further
objectives are detailed below:
-
Provide vocational taster courses to youths aged
14-16 years old for a 20 week period, although this is to be flexible
to cater for both the schools and the individuals needs
-
Provide an opportunity to achieve vocational OCN
qualifications and at least 1 Key Skills qualification
-
Facilitate training and employment progression
opportunities.
-
Offer appropriate support to enable all to progress
-
Provide emotional intelligence, learning and
coaching opportunities
-
Provide completion awards and recognition day
-
Involve participants in working within their
community, with an aim to encouraging them to continue on a voluntary
basis in the future.
-
Instil a work ethic with the participants
-
Involve the parents in the aims of the scheme and
the expected outcomes for the youths.
-
Provide opportunities to address the
intergenerational divide
-
Establish a database of willing and able partners,
placement providers and employers that can assist with the progression
of the trainees.
For further
details, please contact either Nigel Collins on (01495) 320561 or e-mail
Nigel.Collins@Blaenau-Gwent.gov.uk or David Llewellyn, (01495)
354722,
David.Llewellyn@Blaenau-Gwent.gov.uk
THE GLASGOW
PHOENIX
Every Sunday come
join us in the newly refurbished club where we have the best in live
bands. Experience the new ambience and atmosphere, Open every Saturday
and Sunday. Over 21s only.
RELAXATION AND
MEDITATION CLASSES
An evening of relaxation and mediation class begins on the 22nd
of September starting at 7:30pm – 9:00pm in Abertillery, if anyone is
interested ring Karen on 0781585644.
CHINESE
AUCTION
A Chinese auction is to take place at Ebenezer Baptist Church on the 2nd
October to raise money for the mental health charity MENASH. Doors open
at 6:30pm and starts at 7:00pm. Tickets are £1.00 and are on sale on the
door the night of the auction.
The church also
holds weekly drop in sessions every Tuesday between 9:30am – 12:30pm
that supports the community with mental health issues where a variety
of activities take place such as bingo and quizzes. Everyone welcome.
RUGBY FUN DAY
FOR YOUNGSTERS
Abertillery Mini & Junior RFC invites all children from 6 to 16
irrespective of sex or ability to try rugby at our annual Fun Day on
Sunday 28th September. The day starts at 10.30 and runs
through to about 14.00. There will be food and drink provided free and
all kids can take part in different events all aimed at improving ball
skills. If you need any further information please contact Jonathan on
0785 227 0006 or Mike on 07940 021623. Hope to see you there.
WEDNESDAY
WALKS
The regular Wednesday afternoon walks have now started and everyone is
very welcome to come along and get out in our glorious countryside and
enjoy some good company. The first at Cwmtillery Lakes and reservoir
enjoyed some quite balmy weather. On Wednesday 1st October,
the group will be walking along the old by-ways above Gelli Crug taking
in not only the great views but also enjoying some of the history and
folklore of the area. The walk should take about 90 minutes to 2 hours
and sturdy footwear is recommended. To join in, meet at Abertillery High
Street Car Park top storey at 1.30pm. For more information, phone
Communities First on 01495 354723 or 01495 354721.
September
10th 2008
Thank you
Betty Pettet and Family have submitted the following:
“We
would like to thank everyone for the letters, cards and congratulations
that were received when our brother Phillip Maggs was awarded a much
deserved M.B.E. for his work within the communities of Brynithel and
Llanhilleth.
As
you are probably all aware, Phil is now living in a care home after
suffering a stroke and it really lifted his, and the family’s spirits
hearing from everyone with their kind words and thoughts.
We
would also like to say a big thank you to all the staff in Brynwood
Nursing Home Brynmawr for the fantastic care Phil is receiving during
his stay.”
Mystery Tour and two-course lunch
EFFECT are hosting a Mystery Tour with two-course lunch on Thursday 25th
September. Tickets cost £10 and can be purchased at Ash’s in the Arcade.
More information is available from Annette at Age Concern on 01495
321780
The Penndragon
Rob & Cheryl would like to announce that by popular demand live
entertainment will start again at the 'Rugby Club' on Saturday
nights. The first one will take place on 13 September and doors open at
7pm. Details of the weekly acts will be displayed in the front window.
For further information, please feel free to contact them on 01495
212555. They look forward to seeing all those familiar faces!
Julie McGuire School of Dance
The school re-opens on Monday 8th September at Abertillery LAC (next to
comprehensive school) ballet and Tap class for ages 3 to 6
years. Classes held every Tuesday at Beaufort Hill Welfare Hall Ebbw
Vale, and Thursday at Ystrad Deri Community Centre Tredegar. For further
details please telephone Miss Julie 01495 723713
Growing Strong
These are exciting times for Adam Street Community Allotments. Plans are
under way to regenerate the site and already funding has been secured
from Keep Wales Tidy to pay for the insurance, materials and protective
equipment for project volunteers who will help with path laying.
Partnerships have been formed with Ebbw Vale Comprehensive School whose
pupils are helping to prepare plots for those plot holders who are less
able and with the Arches Agency whose clients have been allocated part
of the site for community use. Discussions are under way with Blaenau
Gwent Social Services to see how best the site can be used by the more
vulnerable members of the community.
The Society has already received a great deal of support from
Abertillery Ward Communities First and GAVO, however, it is not only
public bodies who are helping. Play 4 Wales, a local manufacturer based
in Newbridge, which has 20 years experience in manufacturing and
installing rubber safety surfaces, has donated enough safety material to
lay the surface of the area designated for community use. This is a
tremendous help as it will ensure that those users who are less mobile
(including wheelchair users) will be able to access the site with
absolute safety.
Other funding applications are in the pipeline --- watch this space!
If you are interested in renting a plot, please contact Ray Lloyd, the
Manager, on 07794115874
Tillery Trails and beyond….
The Tillery Trails walking group is holding its next local walk at
Cwmtillery lakes on Wednesday 17th September – everyone
welcome, meet at the Lakes car park at 1.30pm. On the previous day,
Tuesday 16th September, the group is running a minibus to
Twmbarlwm and Cwmcarn to join the walk there as part of the Valleys
Walking Festival. There is no charge for the bus but places must be
reserved in advance – ring 01495 354722 or 01495 354723. More details on
the whole series of weekly walks up until December by the group are
available online at
www.tillerycommunitiesfirst.info and
www.abertillery.net
August 19th 2008
WANT TO RUN COMMUNITY EVENTS
Are you interested in being part of a new group? We are looking to set
up a community group that will organise and run community events in
Abertillery. Have you got good marketing or organisational skills, or
would you like to learn them? Have you always thought that there isn't
enough to do in the area? Whatever your skills or experience, bring
your enthusiasm along to the first meeting at the Communities First
Offices in The Arcade, Abertillery on Tuesday 9th September at 3pm. If
you can't make the meeting but would like to learn more, contact Rachel
Elston on (01495) 354726.
GOLDEN WEDDING ANNIVERSARY CONGRATULATIONS
From all the family to Joyce and Keith Smith of Princess Street
Abertillery, Congratulations on their Golden Wedding Anniversary on 16th
August. We send them all our love as always.
CHARITY WALK THANKS
For the last 5 years Abertillery Town Cricket Club has done a Charity
Walk in memory of the late Eric James Rogers, and to date they have
raised £1500, which will be divided between the Hospice of the Valleys
and The Motor Neurone Disease Society. Mary, Christopher and Cathryn
Rogers would like to express their heartfelt thanks and sincere
appreciation to all involved, especially Tony Seymour, for his undivided
attention to the walks.
PIANO DISTINCTION
Congratulations to Amy Cross from Old Blaina Road on achieving a
"distinction" in her Grade 4 theory piano exam. “Good Luck with your
Grade 6 practical coming soon!! All our love, Mam, Dad, Adam and all the
family, xxx.”
BLISS
BOYS’ BIG CHALLENGE
Three
local lads and a friend from Shropshire are currently training hard for
a grueling challenge while raising hundreds of pounds which will help a
great cause in the UK.
On
Friday September 26th 2008 – John Smale, Mark Bradbury and
Gareth Harber from Abertillery and their friend Adam Connolly from
Shropshire will be cycling from London to Paris in aid of a children’s
charity named BLISS.
BLISS is a charity that is dedicated to helping UK babies born too soon,
too small or too sick to cope on their own. BLISS was established 27
years ago, and is the only national organisation dedicated to working
for special care babies and their families. Since then over £22 million
has been raised towards their outstanding work helping babies born too
soon, too small or too sick to cope on their own.
Abertillery Bliss Boys, as the team of four are now known, will be
setting off from London and touring over 300 miles to their destination
under the lofty arches of the Eiffel Tower.
The
trip will take the team four days covering roughly 80 tiring miles per
day. They will initially cycle through Kent and catch a ferry over the
Channel crossing to cycle through the French countryside until they see
the big lights of Paris City and the finishing line at the Eiffel Tower.
BLISS, who helps premature and sick babies, was chosen by eager
fund-raiser John Smale and his partner who had a baby 10 weeks ago and
was born prematurely – weighing only 5 pound 6oz. Their little girl
needed 24-hour care and expert treatment in the special baby ward at
Nevil Hall Hospital, Abergavenny which is also funded by the charity
BLISS.
John
Smale, said: “Both my partner Jo and I are now lucky enough to have our
beautiful daughter at home with us but there are hundreds and hundreds
of babies every day that are not so fortunate to share the same story.
This is the ultimate drive for me and my friends to cycle over 300-miles
and help raise the much needed funds for BLISS to purchase brand new
equipment but also raise wide spread awareness of the work and
dedication that BLISS do every day. We have all being training hard, as
you can tell from the picture we aren’t the best image of health and
fitness! But this great cause will push us all the way. We would like to
thank Andrew Townsend from www.Nuts-Poker-Gwent.com and the Bridgend
pub, Abertillery for organising a very successful charity Poker night on
Friday August 8. The evening was a huge success and rose over £380 which
will go a very long way – thank you to everyone so much for your help”.
Abertillery Bliss Boys have recently received support from local
businesses who collectively donated several hundred pounds. What's more
the Welsh Rugby Union along with Cardiff Blues also donated signed
pictures, Millennium Stadium tour tickets and match tickets to help
raise further funds for the charity.
John
and the team would like to ask local and surrounding companies in the
area to consider sponsoring or helping the team in anyway possible. The
boys are hoping to raise £3,000 for BLISS so anything donated or
sponsored would be very much appreciated. For more information please
contact John Smale directly on 07891679632 or if anyone would like to
donate any amount of money please visit
www.justgiving.com/Abertillery_Bliss_Boys.
INTERESTED IN ORGANIC GARDENING?
Cwmtillery Ward Communities First and BTCV’s Green Gym are going to
regenerate and develop some of the plots at the allotments at Upper
Gwastod Terrace for organic gardening. If you are interested in getting
involved in what should be a wonderful outdoors project, then contact
Cwmtillery Ward Communities First on 01495 354723.
August 5th 2008
Ooh Arr Jim Lad! Open-air Treasure Island show
Blaenau Gwent CBC together with Communities First are bringing Quantum
Theatre’s action-packed family show Treasure Island to Abertillery Park
for an outdoor performance on August 13th between 7 and 8.30 pm. Free
Entry, everyone is welcome, but please wrap up warm! Picnics are
welcome but no glassware, and a folding chair or rug will be useful. For
further details ring (01495) 355800 or 322510.
Partnership Board /Six Bells Regeneration Team
Have you ever thought about getting involved in what is happening in Six
Bells? Would you like to voice your opinions and work with like minded
people to make positive changes to the Community? If so, why not get
involved in Six Bells Communities First Partnership Board (PSB) and the
Six Bells Regeneration Team (SBRT). You don’t need to be an expert, just
willing to help get improvements made to Six Bells. The friendly,
informal meetings are held at the Six Bells Hotel at 6.00pm and the
future dates of the meetings are:
Monday 11th August (PSB), Monday 8th September (SBRT),
Monday 29th September (PSB), Monday 20th October (SBRT),
Monday 10th November (PSB), Monday 8th December (SBRT).
Six
Bells Youth Night
Are you aged between 12-17 years old and are looking for something to do
to keep you occupied on a Monday evening? If so then why not come down
to St Johns Church on Griffin Street between 6 and 8. There are plenty
of activities to do such as pool, games, music, discos, trips and
Internet and all for just 20p entrance fee. For more information
please contact Youth projects officer Claire Gardner on 01495 354673.
Six
Bells Food Coop
Six Bells Food Coop takes place every Friday at St Johns Church, Griffin
Street, Six Bells 9.30am – 10.30am. Orders for great value fruit, veg,
salad and eggs can be placed every Friday for the following week or by
calling 01495 354757 by Thursday morning. FRUIT BAGS cost £2.50, VEG
BAGS £2.50, SALAD BAGS £1.50 and EGGS 50p per ½ dozen. If you are
interested in helping out with the Food Co-op, call into St Johns Church
or contact Tina/Bethan on 01495 354757
Museum Postcards
Abertillery and District Museum are hosting an Around the World in
Postcards Exhibition at the museum to launch our new post cards of
Abertillery and of exhibits in the museum. They are on sale in the
museum for 50p.
Want to
get involved?
Do you live in Abertillery? Are you interested in organising events,
publicity or marketing? You may already have these skills, or would like
to learn more? Would you like to see more events in the area? If so,
come along to the Communities First office in the Arcade, Abertillery on
Tuesday 9 September at 3pm, or if you are unable to make the meeting
please ring Rachel Elston on 354726.
Blaenau
Gwent Senior Citizens’ Trips
Street (Clark’s
Shopping Outlet)
– 20th August 2008 - £11.00
Bookings also being taken for
PANTOMINE: CINDERELLA at Swansea on 9th January 2009
£8.50 plus bus
CARDIFF ICE SHOW
– 11th February 2009
Adults £24.00 / Children £10.00
For more information contact Sue Rocke on 01495 213477
Give us a try! - Abertillery Mini-Junior RFC
Aged between 6 and 16? If you fancy trying rugby, a very warm welcome
awaits you from Abertillery Mini and Junior RFC. You can meet new
friends, learn new skills and have a run around and get fit. For more
information please contact Mike James on 07940 021 623.
Play
days
Following last year’s very successful Play Day, the third annual event
celebrating children’s right to play takes place on Wednesday 6th
August at Bryn Bach Park, Tredegar and the theme of this year’s Play Day
is risk. The event is free, open from 11 am to 4 pm. All are welcome,
and activities include a water slide, face painting, arts and crafts and
lots more. Communities First Abertillery and Cwmtillery are putting on a
bus at a cost of £1 per person - spaces are limited and have to be
pre-booked. Children aged 11 and under have to be accompanied by an
adult. To book your place, ring Rachel on 354726, Amanda on 354721 or
Chloe on 354723.
Blaenau Gwent Council are also bringing their Play in the Park
scheme to Rose Heyworth Playing Fields on Wednesdays 13th and 20th
August between 10.30 am and 12.30 pm, come rain or shine.
Staffed
free play sessions
for children and young
people aged
5-14
run on an open
access
basis –
this
means that they
can come and
go as they
wish.
Children and
young people remain the responsibility
of their
parents - they
will
be asked to give their home contact
details in
the event of an emergency.
For more information
call the Family
Information Service
on 08000 32 33 39.
Cwmtillery ward Food Co-ops
The Tillery Food co-op runs out of St Paul’s Church Hall Cwmtillery
every Wednesday at 10 am and the Bournville Food Co-op is at 10 am every
Friday at William Powell Hall. Orders must be placed for the following
week. Bags of Fruit or veg cost £2, salad bags £1.50 and eggs 50p per ½
dozen. For more details call 01495 354721 or pop along to the venues,
have a cuppa and a chat!
July 30th 2008
SAINT MICHAEL'S SUMMER HOLIDAY FETE
Saint Michael's are holding a Summer Holiday Fete on Thursday 14th
August starting at 10.00. Stalls and games for all the family. Make
your own bakestones! Pelt the Vicar in the stocks! Free entry - all
welcome.
BOURNVILLE SUMMER FETE THANKS
June Phillips Secretary of Bournville Residents and Tenants Association
sends thanks to all those who helped with Bournville Summer fete,
especially the youngsters, Amanda and staff at Communities First
Cwmtillery, Travis Perkins (Cwmtillery Branch) and all who gave raffle
prizes and donations. Thanks also to those who attended who, hopefully,
had an enjoyable day.
CONGRATULATIONS LAURAN
Lauran Hodges’ family (Mam, Dad, Abigail, and Nanny and Bampi) are very
proud of her for being elected head girl of Abertillery Comprehensive
School next year.
ABERTILLERY ORPHEUS S O S
The Abertillery Orpheus Male Choir is celebrating its centenary this
year and would like to display a small amount of its memorabilia in a
shop window in the town. Mr. Glyn Andrews, who is the longest serving
member of the choir, has completed a superb piece of calligraphy work
depicting the choir's badge and listing the president of the choir, the
music team, the officers and a full list of choir members.
Many
hours of work have been spent in creating this splendid tribute to the
choir and all its members. Unfortunately the choir has nowhere to
display this fine piece of art work together with a small number of
other items
The
Orpheus has for many years helped to raise funds for worthy causes and
given its time freely to help those less fortunate than themselves. On
this occasion the choirs is asking for a little help from the town. If
you are able to give the choir any assistance, please telephone the
chairman on 01495 226584 - thank you.
SIX
BELLS FETE SUCCESS
The Six Bells Tenants & Residents Association held their Annual Summer
Fete on Saturday 12th July writes secretary Jayne Wilson. “We
were very lucky to have picked a fine day from what is proving to be a
very wet and windy summer. A very good turn out ensured that the day
was very successful with fun being had by all. The Tenants & Residents
Association would like to thank all the organisations that participated
in the fete and hope that they raised a lot of money for their
individual causes. The first prize of £100 in the grand prize draw was
won by Jan Warren, Landlady of the Six Bells Hotel, a very worthy
winner, all other prizes have been claimed. We would like to thank all
the shops and pubs both within Six Bells and Abertillery who donated
prizes for the raffle and thanks also to Councillors Jim Watkins &
Denzil Hancock for their donation of the first prize in the raffle. They
also donated the prize money for the Welly throwing competition, which
saw everyone ducking for cover when some of the throws made by the male
contingency went slightly off course. We were entertained on the day by
Chloe, a pupil at Bryngwyn Primary School and Ellie Phillips of
Abertillery Comprehensive School both of whom sang like true
professionals. Despite the odd shower a fun day was had by all and the
although the final figure has yet be confirmed, the Tenants & Residents
Association raised approximately £700 which will be spent within the
village. We are now starting to plan for next years fete so look out for
further details in due to course of how you to could be part of an ever
growing, fun packed afternoon in sunny Six Bells.”
NATIONAL
PLAY DAY
Following last year’s very successful Play Day, the third annual event
celebrating children’s right to play takes place on Wednesday 6th
August at Bryn Bach Park, Tredegar and the theme of this year’s Play Day
is risk. The event is free, open from 11 am to
4 pm.
All are welcome, and activities include a water slide, face painting,
arts and crafts and lots more. Communities First Abertillery and
Cwmtillery are putting on a bus at a cost of £1 per person - spaces are
limited and have to be pre-booked. Children aged 11 and under have to be
accompanied by an adult. To book your place, ring Rachel on 354726,
Amanda on 354721 or Chloe on 354723.
DON’S A HERITAGE HERO
Abertillery & District Museum curator, Don Bearcroft has scooped
prestigious awards at the recent Heritage Lottery Fund and the
Nationwide Community & Heritage Awards ceremony in Cardiff. He received
a Regional Award in the Heritage Individual category, together with £50
of dining-out vouchers. He was also chosen out of the Regional winners
as the Heritage Hero for Wales, with which came £500 for the charity of
his choice and £250 worth of retail vouchers to spend. In November, Don
has been invited to go with the other regional winners to a ceremony
held in the Tower of London where the National winner will be announced.
As Don quipped, “Being sent to the Tower is something a few people have
suggested for me in the past; I expect that they have sharpened the
axe!” Hearty congratulations to Don and best of luck for the national
awards.
July 23rd 2008
WELL DONE GIRLS
Congratulations to Megan Edmunds and Samantha Howells who were selected
from the South East Wales area to attend South East Wales Talent Centre
for Netball, they attended a Tournament for Welsh Trials on Saturday
29th June in NIAC in Cardiff UWIC. They had an enjoyable day and did
extremely well to get to this level. "Well done girls for all your hard
work and commitment". Abertillery Ladies Netball Club, Family and
Friends are very proud of you both
COMMUNITY GROUP HELP
Are you a voluntary or community group/organisation, seeking advice and
support to manage your activities? If so, then why not let GAVO assist
you.
Our experienced Community Development Team offer the
following range of services:-
Funding advice/support
Assist with policies/procedures
Assist with charitable status
Offer a comprehensive range of up to date information
sheets that can advise with difficult situation group’s face.
Please give the team a call on 01495 315262
COMMUNITY CHAMPION AWARDS
The South Wales Echo Community Champion Awards acknowledge and celebrate
the contribution made by individuals to life in local communities
throughout South Wales. It may be a youngster who dedicates him or
herself to helping others, it could be a public servant who goes beyond
the call of duty, it could be someone who has overcome adversity and
provides a positive role model for others. But they are all our unsung
heroes - the very essence of what makes this region such a special
place.
Nominations close Friday 25th July and the Awards lunch
will be taking place Wednesday 22nd October at City Hall, Cardiff. Each
finalist will receive recognition in articles in the South Wales Echo,
as well as at the ceremony itself.
For more information on how to nominate someone, phone
(029) 2024 4322 or visit www.walesonline.co.uk/communityawards
ATTENTION LADIES
An Ann Summers party is taking place on Friday
25th July, 7:00pm at Abertillery Sports Club, all ladies
welcome. For more information contact Julie on 07976718343
FREE
TASTER SESSIONS WITH THE WORKERS EDUCATIONAL ASSOCIATION (WEA)
Abertillery Learning Action Centre next to Abertillery Comprehensive
School Thursday 31st July 2008.
Digital
Photography 10:00am-12:00pm
Everyday
Maths (How to work out your bills) 10:00am-12:00pm
Creative
Writing 1:00pm-3:00pm
Organic
Gardening 6:00pm-8:00pm
CHARITY WALK – International Relief Organization, Samaritans Purse and
Tranquil Zone after walk
Turn the tap on challenge 2008. Take your first steps to walk 4 miles
and TURN ON THE TAP for the world’s poorest and most disadvantaged
people who have to walk on average 4 miles to get their water.
The walk
will take place around Cwmtillery Reservoir to the Wyndham
Vowles Community Centre, Blaenau Gwent, Abertillery for a time of
relaxation and refreshments in the tranquil zone.
The walk
will take place Saturday 9th August at 2:00pm and the
tranquil Zone will begin at 5:00pm.Please join us in this community
event; it benefits friendship, nature, wellbeing, spirituality and
charity contemplation. For further details contact Vanessa on 01495
215100 or Raffi Abbas 01495 291784
CWMTILLERY COMMUNITIES FIRST PARTNERSHIP MEETING
The next meeting of the Cwmtillery Communities First Local Partnership
Board will take pace on Thursday 31st July at 5.45pm at the
Learning Action Centre adjacent to Abertillery Comprehensive School.
Members of the public are very welcome to come along and find out what’s
happening with the board’s activities.
July 16th 2008
TEA DANCING IN LLANHILLETH MINERS INSTITUTE
A new Tea Dance has been started in the recently
refurbished Llanhilleth Miners Institute. It is held every Monday
afternoon from 1.30pm to 3.30pm and costs £2.50 including refreshments.
This is a lovely ballroom with a great dance floor, so why not come
along and join in with all the old favourite dances, plus one or two new
ones for everyone. It doesn't matter whether you can dance or not, as
there is a qualified instructor on hand to offer help to anyone who
needs it, and if you don't have a partner it is a great way to meet
people and make new friends and there will invariably be someone to
dance with as well. Come along and give it a try - it's an interesting
way to keep fit and socialise at the same time. Enquiries can be made
either at the Llanhilleth Miners Institute, or via Ann Brankley on 01495
290888. We look forward to seeing you there.
ROTARY NEWS
Friday 20th June was the induction night of the club’s
70th president when more than 50 Rotarians, wives and guests met at the
West Mon Golf Club. Well-known local man John Hale was inducted as the
club’s president for the year 2008/2009. John promised to continue in
the best club traditions in supporting local charities and working with
the Inner Wheel and the Round Table on joint projects and how proud and
pleased he was to become president and that he would enjoy his year of
office. Rotarian Mike Wyatt was pleased to become the President elect
and promised to support John in every way he could. Rotarian Richard
Tillings was elected to the office of President Nominee and also pledged
John his support.
District Governor Leighton Hancock wished John every
success and outlined some of the achievements of Rotary, especially the
contribution during the recent crisis in China. He also expressed his
concern over Polio Plus and Rotary’s commitment to continue our efforts
to remove polio in the few remaining countries where it still exists. He
spoke of the support of Bill Gates and his generosity in the bequest of
a million dollars. The district charity will be Diabetes Cymru and he
encouraged us to support it as a club.
Outgoing president Matthew Tucker thanked everyone for
their efforts during his year and stated that it ended quickly but was
very rewarding and a great honour.
In the absence of Rotarian Ken Roderick who was unable to
attend due to his wife’s accident - he was detained in Belgium and we
hope she is well soon - the MC for the night was Rotarian Alan Thorpe
who did an excellent job.
On Monday, we all enjoyed our countryside meeting at the
Goytre Arms where an excellent evening was had by everyone. Thanks to
President Elect Mike Wyatt for arranging it and to Bob Hall for the
quiz.
The club assembly was attended by Assistant Governor
Martyn Jayne. All of the new management team outlined their plans for
the coming year. Last year’s activities were detailed and our successes
celebrated and we all look forward to the coming year.
HAPPY RETIREMENT LES AND BET
Wishing Les and Bet Williams the
wardens for Llys Cwm Llwydrew a very happy, long and healthy retirement
- with very best wishes from all of the Wardens in Blaenau Gwent.
AWARDS FOR SWFFRYD COMMUNITY CENTRE
Congratulations to Swffryd Community Centre once again
for scooping a number of awards. Firstly, in May the Parents and
Toddlers Group run by Mrs Valerie Assinder won the Quality Start Gold
Award for development in childcare partnership with early years - this
is the first time this award has been won in Blaenau Gwent.
At the GAVO awards evening held in conjunction with
Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council held on the 6th June, Mr
Martin Assinder won the Senior Volunteer award for voluntary service to
the Swffryd Community Centre. The Practical Volunteers Award went to the
centre’s voluntary youth workers namely Gloria, Valerie, Antony, Julie,
Lynda, Natasha and Sarah. On June 18th Abertillery and
Llanhilleth Community Council held their Voluntary Awards evening and
again Mr Martin Assinder received an award and the community centre also
received an award. Natalie and Megan Gurner were chosen from the youth
club to receive the award on the centre’s behalf.
On June 14th, it was announced that Cllr
Dennis Hughes, chairman of the centre, was to receive an MBE for his
services and contribution to voluntary work spanning a total of 43 year,
a recognition very well deserved.
Well done to everyone.
HAPPY
RETIREMENT DOROTHY
Wishing Mrs
Dorothy Rice a long and happy retirement with all good wishes from all
the sheltered housing wardens in the Blaenau Gwent area.
MUSEUM COFFEE MORNING
On Saturday 19th July
Abertillery & District Museum is holding a coffee morning and cakes
stall between 10 am - 12.30pm. There will also be a postcard exhibition
which is running for a month. Come and along and see us and the
exhibition.
July 9th 2008
SIX
BELLS THANKS
The people of Six Bells would like to say a big thank you to Ann Jones
of Arael Street, for all the work she has done, and all the money she
has raised for different causes. She has put a lot of her time into
selling raffle tickets and also running bingo. Thank you Ann, all your
hard work is much appreciated.
ABERTILLERY YOUTH DRAMA AND MUSICAL SOCIETY
Abertillery Youth Drama and Musical Society would like to say a big
thank you to everyone who helped to raise funds on Saturday 28th
June. A total of £137 was raised (£92 stall, £45 raffle). The raffle
winner was ticket No 7 Sophie Bowden.
SCHOOL REUNION - THANKS
Well done to Michelle Dack, Pat (Morgan) Phelps and Ka | 
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