Living Wales Magazine July

YOUR FREE INDEPENDENT MAGAZINE FOR SOUTH EAST WALES & VALLEYS

INTERVIEWWe speak to

Only Men Aloud Director

Tim Rhys-Evans

PLUSHelp for your

business worth

£500

INTERVIEWWe speak to

Only Men Aloud Director

Tim Rhys-Evans

PLUSHelp for your

business worth

£500

LivingWalesMade in Wales!

JULY 2010 ISSUE 50

FILMSFASHIONMUSIC & THEATREBARBECUE ACCESSORIESWHAT’S ONBUSINESSNEWPORT IN BLOOMGWENT ADVENTURESWIN TICKETS TO THE WELSH PROMS& MUCH MORE...

Festival of flavourRecipes, reviews and details of this yearsAbergavenny Food Festival INSIDE

Festival of flavourRecipes, reviews and details of this yearsAbergavenny Food Festival INSIDE

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JULY COVER WITH SPINE 28/6/10 11:55

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4 Living Wales JULY 2010 www.livingwalesmag.co.uk

welcome

SO we’ve passed the mid-point of the yearalready and looking forward to what therest of the summer brings - hopefully lots

more of that glorious sunshine! This monththe team here at Living Wales have beenslogging through the heat to bring you thebest of the great Welsh outdoors: from sailingon Llandegveth reservoir to restaurant reviewsat the Three Horseshoes in Pentwynmawr andfine dining on the TwentyTen Golf Course atthe Celtic Manor Resort.

We look at the numerous festivals happening, from the pageantry of theEisteddfod, to the deeply soulful Blues Festival in Abertillery to name but afew. Also featured are the gastronomical delights that are the Great BritishCheese Festival in Cardiff and the Abergavenny Food Festival to give yousome ideas to digest (literally!). But it’s not just about feeding thestomach, we’re about feeding the mind, too - so how about taking thefamily off to the Storytelling Festival at St Donat’s Castle? If you’re in themood for some more history there’s no better time to explore the wealthof castles here in Wales; discover their secrets in our castles guide on pages10 & 11.

Now, there’s no better way to eat dinner at this time of year likeoutside: somehow food just tastes better, doesn’t it? On this premise we’veput together a few ideas for cooking al-fresco including barbeques and funideas for everyone to have a great time.And while you’re feeling inspiredto try your culinary skills, try the Pollock with Spanish Butter BeansRecipe on page 28 from star Chef, Stephen Terry - perfect for adding acontinental flavour to the balmy evenings.

Our fashion pages didn’t escape the al-fresco appeal either, and wefeature some effortlessly chic festival outfits to see you through the blazingsunshine and hot tunes on pages 39-40. For the evening we’ve picked outsome hot designs guaranteed to ensure that you keep your cool in flowingflorals for that summer soiree.

We’ve also featured some handy tips for keeping the hassle of Hayfeverat bay this summer and we have our regular finance piece, this monthgiving us the low down on the inauguaral Tory budget. Finally localenterprise 4ward Development have an excitingnew offer for businesses. They are offering FREE help towards a ‘peopleMOT’ worth £500 - see pages 46-47 for this fantastic offer.

Have a great July and we’ll see you for next month’s sizzling Augustissue! Enjoy!

Emma

Publishing EditorNick [email protected]

Assistant EditorEmma [email protected]

ProductionGlyn [email protected]

Website ManagerPhil [email protected]

Advertising01495 750600

[email protected]

[email protected]

ContributersJason Roberts, Michael Took, Patricia Clarke, Nick Jones, Gavin Watkins, Anne-Marie Smith

Office telephone01495 750600

Websitewww.livingwalesmag.co.uk

Living Wales magazine is part of theOut & Out Publishing Group Ltd,2 Town Bridge Buildings,Park Road,Pontypool,Gwent.NP4 6JE

Out & Out Publishing LtdManaging DirectorNick Clarke

Please note that all views of advertisers orindividuals within the magazine are notnecessarily the views of the publisher.No image, editorial or advert containedwithin this magazine can be reproducedwithout permission from the publisher.

JULY welcome & contents 28/6/10 12:56 Page 2

6 What’s OnYour guide to what’s on this July.

8-9 InterviewWe speak to Only Men Aloud MusicalDirector Tim Rhys-Evans.

10-11 Castles of WalesWe visit some of the most beautiful historiccastles of the Principality.

14-15 SailingSailing at Llandegvedd Reservoir with GwentAdventures.

16-17 EisteddfodEbbw Vale welcomes this year’s NationalEisteddfod.

18-29 Eating OutIn our extended food special this month, wetake a look at this years Abergavenny FoodFestival. We go from pub grub to A La Cartewith our restaurant reviews, visiting the warmand friendly Three Horseshoes in Blackwoodand the fabulous Rafters Restaurant at TheCeltic Manor Resort. Finally top Chef andBBC’s Great British Menu regular StephenTerry supplies this month’s recipe.

30-31 At The MoviesThis July we see an influx of 80’s remakeswhich include the new A Team movie starringLiam Neeson and Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson.

The second remake stars Jaden Smith (WillSmith Jr) in Martial Arts movie remake TheKarate Kid. We also take a look at the latestTwilight Saga: Eclipse.

32 Music & TheatreCelebrating 25 Year’s of the Welsh PromsPLUS your chance to win two tickets to thisyears event.

34 HealthHayfever help with allergy therapist Emma Assender.

36-38 FashionMaxi dresses and fashion from Republic.

39-43 InteriorsWe step outside the home and into thegarden with some fantastic accessories for aSummer of Barbecues.

44 BusinessThe latest news from HOVIP, Heads of theValley Innovation Programme.

45 FinanceAdvice from Gavin Watkins of Medina LynchChartered Accountants.

46-47 Business Feature4WARD Development.

50 Places to StayFantastic places to stay in the Principality.

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WHAT’S ON

JULY 2nd-4thBEYOND THE BORDERSTORYTELLING FESTIVALST DONATS CASTLETHE world will come to South Wales this Summerwith the Beyond the Border InternationalStorytelling Festival at St Donats Castle in the Valeof Glamorgan.

From Georgia to Gambia and England toEgypt, storytellers, singers and musicians willdescend on the idyllic setting of St Donats Castlefor the UK’s leading festival on storytelling in aweekend of inspirational tale telling with greatfood and drink aplenty.

Highlights this year include In The Footsteps ofMarco Polo, stories from Arabia in Nights inBaghdad and Celtic stories, including two fromthe Mabinogion which will be retold in words,music and song in a series of stories entitled Outof the Twilight.

Nearly 20 storytellers will feature includingSergio Diotti from Italy, Melanie Ray from Canadaand Wales’s own Sioned Davies. Sioned is Head ofWelsh Studies at the University of Wales, Cardiffand author of the recent critically-acclaimedWelsh translation of The Mabinogion.

JULY 6th-10thROMEO & JULIETWALES MILLENNIUM CENTREIT’S love at first dance when young RomeoMontague tricks his way into the lavish maskedball of the Capulet family.

The Capulets and Montagues are swornenemies, the passion between Romeo and thebeautiful Juliet Capulet is quickly forbidden.Boldly forgoing the approval of their families,the young lovers play by their own rules andsoon their dangerous seduction is filled withsecrets, as the star-crossed pair hatch a perilousplot. With a sweeping score by Sergei Prokofievand soaring choreography from master ofmodern ballet, Kenneth MacMillan, Romeo andJuliet continues to be the all-time classic lovestory.

JULY 2nd-4thWAKESTOCKABERSOCH, NORTH WALESWAKESTOCK is Europe’s biggest Wakeboardingfestival. The fusion between extreme sport oflive music attracts up to 15,000 people duringthe first weekend of July.

Take in the fierce boarding competitionsduring the day and let the likes of N-Dubz,Maximo Park, Feeder and The Ting Tingsentertain you by night. This year's bash has adistinct RnB and Hip-Hop feel to it with supportfrom Mr Hudson, Plan B, Wiley, Tinie Tempah.

JULY 16thELIS JAMESTHE WELFARE HALL,YSTRADGYNLAISWALES’S hottest young comedian from BBCRadio Wales’s Rhod Gilbert Show, Elis James,took the 2009 Edinburgh Fringe by storm withhis debut show. He comes to The Welfare aspart of a limited run of strictly Wales-onlydates. In the words of fellow Welsh stand-upRhod Gilbert, "Watching Elis James do stand-upis like watching a man with no arms or legsriding a mechanical bull – interesting andfunny.”

JULY 11th-25thWELSH PROMSST DAVID’S HALL, CARDIFFSINCE its inception in 1986 the Welsh PromsCardiff has become one of the city’s greatestsuccess stories, known for its lively mix ofperformances to engage audiences of everyage. Join St David’s Hall to celebrate the 25thAnniversary of the Welsh Proms with a sizzling

selection of thirty live events taking place in apacked two weeks. There will also be acollection of daytime Proms to enjoy free ofcharge. One of the main highlights at thisyear's event will be Welsh choir Only MenAloud.

JULY 21stCATRIN FINCHGLANDWR UNIVERSITYWELSH Harpist Catrin Finch performs a concertin the intimate setting of the Catrin FinchCentre at Glyndwr (www.glyndwr.ac.uk)University to mark the 1st anniversary of itsopening. The concert will be preceded by aspecial summer BBQ in the UniversityQuadrangle.

JULY 31st-AUGUST 7thEISTEDDFOD, EBBW VALE THE annual festival attracts around 160,000visitors every year and alternates between Northand South Wales. Stars like Rhydian Roberts,Aled Jones, Only Men Aloud (again!) and JasonHoward will be appearing on the Pavilion stagethis year, with a packed programme of Wales’top entertainers, and those who are from Walesworking in other parts of the world.

JULY 9th-11thSMALL NATIONS FESTIVALGLANGWENLAISTHE Small Nations festival returns toGlangwenlais, Cilycwm with a celebration ofthe music of Wales and other small nations.Here you will find the best of Welsh andInternational music in all its wonderful variety.Small Nations Festival is, and will remain, asmall festival with a total capacity of 1500.

To find out about the latest arts events in Wales, visit

www.whatsonwales.co.uk


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APRIL 10 ADVERTS 12/4/10 12:09 Page 4

only men aloud

interview


It’s set to be a busy time in the lives of Welsh Choir sensations Only Men Aloud.This month Emma Assender talks to Musical Director Tim Rhys-Evans.

hitting the highnote

At the time of speaking, Tim Rhys-Evans is travelling on the tourbus to Aberglasney - at least that’s what it sounds like before thetelephone network loses connection. But such is the way of Tim’slife since he and is 20 strong choir beat 60 shortlisted hopefuls tothe title of winners of the BBC’s Last Choir Standing competitionin 2008; travelling is now a major part of all the ensembles’ lives,the logistics of which were the first topic for discussion.

I asked Tim if he prefers to conduct smaller groups?“Having been described as a ‘Large Man Band’ (he chuckles wryly)it’s more practical to travel with a smaller ensemble, it worksbetter - we have the tour bus which is far more practical from atransportation point of view.”

Of course there are other considerations and the groupwould not have achieved the success they have without Tim’scommitment to the craft of musical arrangement andshowmanship.

“There’s a great deal of choreography to our shows whichwouldn’t work so well with a larger group.”

Certainly watching Only Men Aloud! Is more than just a choralconcert, not only does Tim’s tenacious devotion to quality shinethrough but all the members are trained performers in their ownright, some having worked in West End musicals and singingprofessions - perhaps most notably Noel Sullivan Of Hearsay.

Few of the group are strangers to putting on a show. Nomatter what their background though, they have all cometogether to raise the profile of singing in Britain.

“As a young boy, growing up in New Tredegar, the main accesspoints for music revolved around the mines and chapels. The firsttime I heard live communal singing was when the male voicechoirs toured around. It was an important part of my musicaldevelopment,” he added.

Tim’s career has taken a few turns; initially trained as an operasinger, he discovered a talent for musical arrangement when hepicked up the conductor’s baton and directed for himself.

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Tim Rhys-Evans


He quickly developed a talent for musical direction and in 2000 setup Only Men Aloud! He’s worked on other projects not only as afree-lance singer but also as a consultant, again extolling the virtuesof singing as a means of enhancing confidence, buildingrelationships and boosting morale.

This may well go some way to explain Tim’s passion for re-introducing the tradition of singing to the people of Wales. Timbelieves that there is so much more to singing than justsinging; “It’s life enhancing,” he enthuses. “There’s a strong socialside to being part of a choir, it combats isolation and brings peopletogether in a way that we’ve started to lose with the advent ofthings like Facebook.”

Although admitting that he is fan of the internet he affirms thatchoral singing allows people to connect with and bounce off eachother.

“Singing’s a good endorphine releaser and encourages a positivemental attitude.”

The biggest change was the decision to enter the BBC’s LastChoir Standing competition two years ago. I asked Tim what swungthe decision - the answer is modest.

“The Choir Administrator saw the advert for the show and wedecided to send off a DVD. While we did dare to dream we reallyonly gave it the thought that we’d see how it went. For me it’sabout the quality of our music, as long as the arrangements are thevery best they can be I’m happy.”

Of course, it went all the way for the choir who put in polishedand breathtaking performances of traditional arrangements of CwmRhondda, alongside re-workings of modern pieces such as RobbieWilliams’ Angels and Don’t Rain On My Parade. Having describedthe experience as ‘one of the most insane in my life’. I askedTim which aspect of the competition had the biggest impact?

“It was the intensity of the process: we were being watched by 7 million people every Saturday night, suddenly everyone knew ourname - not just in Wales but nationally as well.”

So, does he think that singing is unique to Wales?“Not uniquely, but the Welsh are naturally gregarious people and

are always eager to sing; when we go to the pub, we sing, at arugby match, we sing and given the history of Wales with politicaloppression it’s become part of who we are. The Welsh accent isvery musical too; it lends itself to song.”

Again Tim’s passion for singing comes through and he has astrong vision of where he would like to take the choral traditionstarting with attracting more younger people to choirs. In littlemore than a couple of months Tim has put together a new project,Only Boys Aloud! This one differs from OMA! In that he wants to‘throw the net as wide as possible’ in order to gather as many boysas possible to sing at the Eisteddfod in July.

He’s thrilled to have received over 200 applications for theproject of lads between 14 -19 years old who he hopes will feedback into the local choirs and reignite the traditions of the malevoice choir in Wales.

Tim’s not just involved in performance at the Eisteddfod though,he is ‘honoured’ to be admitted to the Gorsedd this year.

“I will be donning my white robes,” he confirms. “White is thehighest accolade so it’s very special to me.”

But it doesn’t stop there; the group will be touring the USA andthe Southern Hemisphere before returning to the UK to tour onhome ground. In the meantime though, they haven’t abandoned usad will be filming a variety show series for TV, featuring specialguests to sing with them. So who would Tim most like to singwith?

“Bryn Terfel, definitely. Personally, I’d love to duet with ShirleyBassey or Tom Jones, I think a set in Vegas with him would beincredible.”

But not Nessa Jenkins? Tim laughs, “No, perhaps not Nessa!!”Only Men Aloud will be at this year’s Welsh Proms at the St David’sHall this month. For tickets visit www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk.

For details of upcoming concerts visit www.onlymenaloud.com

JULY 2010 INTERVIEW 28/6/10 12:59 Page 4

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SCATTERED throughout our Welsh landscape is evidence of how welived our lives across two thousand years, and even further back intime. The first people to really change our culture to any great extentwere the Romans, who were then followed by the Normans in theEleventh century.

Although the Romans built fortresses, often on the sites of existingIron age fortresses, the Normans went one better using what theyfound and rebuilt many castles on the sites of the structures theRomans had left behind, establishing market towns and laws. Howeverthese laws were not always accepted by the indigenous population ofWales, many of whom returned from England, and fought tooth andnail for their country's freedom alongside our own Prince of Wales,Owain Glyndwr. The churches and castles built by the Normans are

distinctive in appearance, and have stood the test of time despiteattacks on the castles by Welshmen such as the aforementioned Welshhero, Glyndwr.

Welsh history is fascinating, and the easiest way to teach childrenabout their heritage, whilst keeping their attention and interest, is tovisit the site of the lesson. Many of our Welsh Mediaeval castles havebeen taken under the wing of CADW who arrange events throughouteach summer; they include re-enactments, long bow archery, Welshcrafts and so much more.

HARLECH CASTLEEdward I arrived in Harlech in 1283, and ordered the building of whathas been described as an 'iron ring of castles', intended to keep Welshinsurgents at bay. Master architect, Master James of St. George, andhis team built this splendid castle situated in the south of the townwith amazing views across the surrounding landscape and sea. Eventoday the castle is imposing, majestic and, standing on solid rock,exudes the usual strength of a typical Norman fortress, its conditioneven after seven hundred years is testament to the skill of its creators.However, in 1404 the castle was taken by the forces of OwainGlyndwr, and became his home and parliament until, after a longbattle in 1408, it was retaken by Henry V, (aka Harry of Monmouth).The War of the Roses saw the castle taken from the Lancastrians byYorkist Lord Herbert of Raglan after a long siege at the end of thefifteenth century, which inspired the song, Men of Harlech.

KIDWELLY CASTLESituated on the banks of the Gwendraeth river Kidwelly Castle forms acentral position in the town, and was largely a wooden structurefalling to the Welsh on several occasions during the 12th and 13thcenturies. In 1159 the castle was taken and burnt by Lord Rhys, whorebuilt it in 1190. During the middle of the13th century the building ofthe strong stone defences, and living quarters was carried out by theowners, the de Chaworth family. The castle was too far away from thefighting to be involved in the Wars of the Roses.

RHUDDLAN CASTLEThis was master architect and castle builder Master James's first build

Wales has been referred to as the Land of Castles, and Abbeys, and there arecertainly many of them, surrounded by spectacular scenery the castles formed aring of defence against attacks by the Welsh. Living Wales visits some of these

fascinating structures and learn of their history.

Raglan Castle

walls

WORDS Patricia Clarke

JULY VISIT 28/6/10 02:31 Page 2

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11www.livingwalesmag.co.uk JULY 2010 Living Wales

castles

for Edward I, and stands on the bank of the river Clwyd. There havebeen several fortresses on the site, one of which was the palace ofGruffydd ap Llewelyn, King of Wales who was ousted by Earl Harold(Godwinson) in 1063; he also burned down the palace; a motte andbailey construction built by Robert of Rhuddlan in 1073 for William TheConqueror. During the 12th and thirteenth centuries the castle's mainlywooden structure was replaced with stone, and it changed hands manytimes until 1277, when Llewelyn ap Gruffydd, who had assumed thetitle ‘Prince of Wales’, incurred the wrath of Henry III, who took armsagainst Llewelyn who submitted to the King at Rhuddlan. 12th and13th century silver pennies minted at Rhuddlan are on display in themuseum.

CONWY CASTLETowering over Conwy town this hugely imposing castle is anothertriumph of master architect Master James, and building began in 1283as part of King Edward's iron ring of defence, which included a townwall which still surrounds Conwy: Again, built to protect the Englishfrom the Welsh. A suite of apartments was built for King Edward I andQueen Eleanor in 1283, and as the castle is extremely well preserved,visitors are able to walk to the top of its eight impressively solidtowers, offering amazing views across the surrounding countryside;visitors can also walk on the top of parts of the town wall.

CHEPSTOW CASTLEProbably the first stone-built castle in the country, this was the work of

Norman, William FitzOsbern, genius castle builder extraordinaire of the11th century. Chepstow castle is uniquely built apon the cliffoverlooking and guarding the River Wye, and was added to in threestages, the first of which began in 1067. The Great Hall is the oldestsurviving stone fortification in Britain, the doorway arch of which wasbuilt with bricks from a nearby Roman fort, most probably fromCaerwent. During the 13th century the castle was owned by WilliamMarshal, Earl of Pembroke, and he along with his sons improved thedefences and modernised the building. Regicide Henry Martens wasimprisoned, for twenty years, in the tower named after him.

RAGLAN CASTLEMainly constructed with sandstone, this 15th century Raglan castle is asight to behold, as the sandstone is of two colours, red and yellow.This majestic Tudor castle was initially inhabited by William ap Thomas,‘The Blue Knight of Gwent’, who fought at Agincourt with King HenryV in 1415, and he was succeeded by Sir William Herbert of Pembroke,who continued the castle's construction. Henry Tudor, who becameKing Henry VII, spent much of his childhood at Raglan castle. There aresix corner turrets, and the Great Tower or Yellow Tower was badlydamaged during the Civil War.

Information about any of these castles, and many others can befound on the CADW website, the word Cadw means 'to keep'.For further information on opening times and exhibits Tel: 01443 33 6000 or Fax: 01443 33 6001 and [email protected].

Harlech Castle Kidwelly Castle Rhuddlan Castle

Conwy Castle Chepstow Castle Tretower Court

JULY VISIT 28/6/10 12:14 Page 3

THE aim of the Young People’s Writing Squads is to locate giftedyoung writers - in both English and Welsh - in each authorityregion and introduce them to some of Wales’ leading writers,and teachers of writing.

Known as the Key Stage 2 Writing Squad, Fourteen Lockswelcome 21 pupils once a term, to the canal,to allow the natural beauty and surroundingsinfluence their creative writing skills. Withwalks and wildlife to inspire the young writer’sit’s all about letting the canal create picturesin their minds so that ideas flow easily - andthere’s plenty of natural beauty at FourteenLocks. With the changing seasons there isalways something new to see and somethingnew to imagine.

The link with ‘Newport In Bloom’ is clear tosee - it’s a stunningly beautiful environment, with its deep,atmospheric locks surrounded by trees, plants and flowers thatalmost seem to hold secrets!

In a recent writing workshop, Duffryn Junior School pupil, RoryThomas wrote; ‘As the golden sun rose, a gleaming light was sentthrough the locks, awakening everything in its majestic path.’

Kate Virgo of Eveswell Primary School wrote; ‘In the dark,black, eerie night the moon creates illusive patterns of shadows

as creatures creep around the dew kissed grass and colossal,brown, grasping trees.’

The writing reflects ‘Newport In Bloom’, but in a different way.The flowers and hanging baskets are a joy to see and certainlymake people smile, but equally important is the landscape of the

city, the parks, the trees and the canal.The picturesque landscape of Fourteen

Locks has nurtured the imaginations of theseyoung writers, and their creativity is acelebration of Newport’s heritage and of‘Newport In Bloom’.

Tom Maloney, the education consultantbased at Fourteen Locks has been veryimpressed with the pupils, he comments;“It’s been amazing to see how well the pupilshave been motivated to write. Writing can be

a very difficult process, but the canal environment has giventhem so many different opportunities to develop their creativeideas and to have fun while they learn!”

“The importance of sustaining a green environment is clearlydemonstrated by their writing.”

The link with Newport In Bloom ensures the natural talents ofyoung writers in the city, match the natural environment of thecity and long may it continue to inspire and grow.

For more information on how the squads operate and what they do, please contact Elena Schmitz (Project Manager) [email protected] or

Branwen Williams (Project Support Officer) [email protected]

Wales In Bloom

Nurturing young writers with Newport In Bloom


Campaign 2010JUNE 10 ADVERTS 28/6/10 14:43 Page 11

we are

So far this Summer we have beenblessed with good weather.Whatbetter way to spend the day thansailing on Llandegvedd Reservoir.Nick Clarke discovers.


sailing

sailing

JULY gwent adventures 27/6/10 21:38 Page 2


sailing

JUST simply messing around in boats, that is a famous line from‘Wind In The Willows’. However, my day sailing at LlangdegveddReservoir was more than just simply messing about! Tutored for theafternoon by the delightful Amelia Ballisat, I was shown how toughsailing can be, but also how much fun!

I have now visited Gwent Adventures on a number of occasion, inparticular, to spend a couple of hours Paddleboarding. Whendirectors Mike Walkin and Terry Sculley suggested I tried sailing Ijumped at the chance, although a touch apprehensive.

The staff at Gwent Adventures Water Sports and Activity Centrecouldn't have been nicer and quickly put my mind and nerves at rest.The centre offers an array of water sport activities including, dinghysailing, windsurfing, canoeing and kayaking as well as organisingparties, corporate and teambuilding events, and is a fully recognisedRoyal Yachting Association Teaching Establishment licensed by theAdventure Activities Licensing Service.

So, off sailing we go. First, Amelia showed me how to rig theboat, preparing it for the 2 hour session ahead. After attaching theboom, raising the sail and putting the rudder into place we wereready for launch.

We lowered the boat into the water and manoeuvered it off thetrolley. Amelia affectionately referring to the boat as ‘she’ and ‘her’,we climbed aboard and positioned ourselves comfortably in the boat.

The young sailing tutor took us into the centre of the reservoir,and just as I began to chill and enjoy the stunning surroundings onsuch a beautiful day, she told me that it was my turn to sail the boat.I nervously shuffled to the steering position and began to set a coursedown the centre of the vast expanse of water. I was shown how tosail up-wind, down-wind, and how to ‘tac’. Basically this is amanoeuver which uses the wind to turn the boat around to enable us

to catch the wind in our sails and zigzag our way across the water.I must say, I was a little apprehensive in controlling this manoeuvre

myself but such is the calming and confidence-filling nature of myfantastic tutor, I gave it a go. To do this, you have to push the oaraway from you so the boat spins around, then you have to duckunder the boom each time and shift to the other side of the boat.Each ‘tac’ was exhilarating, and much to my amazement, I didn’t fallin once!

There is a definite adrenaline rush sailing the small vessel and youhave to be on your mettle at all times. Concentration and observationof your surroundings and the power of nature is paramount and youcannot take your mind off the job for one second.

After nearly two hours we set course for the shore, againzigzagging our way up wind. The two hours went in a flash and Ididn’t really want to stop, but all good things often come to an end.However, this is definitely an activity I will be trying again. My tutorAmelia was fantastic and instilled a belief that ‘I could do it’ from thestart.

For anyone who is interested in taking up a hobby, a trial sessionwith Gwent Adventures is a must. With a sport to suit all levels offitness and with age not being an issue, there is bound to besomething that would ‘float your boat.’ And for the young 8-15 yearolds there is the opportunity to join the T15 club. This is a clubdesigned for young windsurfers who meet on a Sunday morning andget involved with events such as Slaloms, and open eventsthroughout the year.

From sailing to paddleboarding and windsurfing, GwentAdventures at Llangdegfedd Reservoir, is the ideal location to start ahobby. You will leave there feeling invigorated and wanting more.

If you haven’t tried a water sport before, now is the time.

Activities at Gwent AdventuresSAILINGWINDSURFINGPADDLEBOARDINGCANOEINGKAYAKINGRAFT BUILDING

ROPE ACTIVITIESJUNIOR MULI-ACTIVITY DAYSHEN & STAG EVENTSBIRTHDAY & FAMILY PARTIESCORPORATE EVENTSTEAMBUILDING

Gwent Adventures Water Sports and Activity CentreLlandegfedd Reservoir, Coed-Y-Paen

Nr. Pontypool, Gwent

Tel: 01291 673002www.gwent-adventures.co.uk

PICTURES Emma Assender

JULY gwent adventures 28/6/10 12:17 Page 3

eiste

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dsteeped in

DATING back to 1176, the National Eisteddfod of Wales has been thecornerstone of Welsh tradition. An eclectic mixture of culture, music,visual arts and all kinds of activities for people of all ages, there’ssomething for everyone on the Maes during the first week of Augustevery year.

The Eisteddfod is a travelling festival which belongs to the people ofWales – wherever they live, and this is an integral part of its appeal. Thefestival visits areas in north and south Wales alternately, and hosting theNational Eisteddfod is a great boost for any area.

It’s an ideal opportunity to promote and encourage people to useand learn Welsh locally, to take part in cultural activities in their area,and it’s also a great opportunity to promote the region as a touristdestination. The economic effect on the area is huge, with theEisteddfod contributing between £6-8 million to the local economyduring the week.

The Eisteddfod is the home of literature, music, dance, recitation,theatre, visual arts, science and technology, and all types of culture inWales, and although the festival only lasts for a week, the preparatorywork, and the buzz surrounding the event and all its activities lasts formore than two years before the Eisteddfod. Many areas choose tocontinue organising events promoting the Welsh language and culture

once the festival is over.It is said that the first Eisteddfod was held, under the auspices of Lord

Rhys, at his castle in Cardigan in 1176. There he held a grand gatheringto which were invited poets and musicians from all over the country. Achair at the Lord's table was awarded to the best poet and musician, atradition that prevails in the modern-day National Eisteddfod.

Following 1176, many eisteddfodau were held throughout Wales,under the patronage of Welsh gentry and noblemen. At the beginningof the nineteenth century, an Eisteddfod of historical significance washeld at the Ivy Bush Inn in Carmarthen, when the Gorsedd of Bards firstbecame officially associated with this national event. By this time, theEisteddfod had developed into a fully-fledged folk festival on a largescale.

In 1880, the National Eisteddfod association was formed andcharged with the responsibility of staging an annual festival to be heldin North and South Wales alternately, and with the exception of 1914and 1940, this target has been successfully achieved.

This year’s event will be home to over 300 trade stands and stalls –and to a totally new and amazing shopping experience.

Wales’ foremost festival is a shopper’s Mecca – you’ll find whateveryou want, whatever you need – and a few treats you never realised you

The National Eisteddfod of Wales is one of the great festivals of the world, attractingover 160,000 visitors every year. As Ebbw Vale prepares to welcome this year’s event,

Living Wales takes a look at what it’s all about.


eisteddfod

tradition

JULY eisteddfod 27/6/10 22:33 Page 6


eisteddfod

should have – by wandering through the colourful stalls dotted aroundthe Eisteddfod Maes. It’s a veritable cultural emporium - and it’s all atThe Works, Ebbw Vale this summer.

You’ll find all kinds of jewellery – most inspired by and made inWales, paintings by up and coming artists, as well as some well knownnames, clothing – there’s a huge T-shirt culture at the Eisteddfod withmany conmpanies developing and creating new designs just to sellduring the week, books – with all the best new Welsh books, and booksabout Wales, released in time for the stands at the Eisteddfod, andmuch much more. And with the Eisteddfod held from 31 July – 7August, you’ll have plenty of time to visit the stalls before deciding onyour must have purchase. But there’s so much more on the Maes thanthe hundreds of trade stands. Use the Eisteddfod to find out moreabout Wales and what’s going on across the country. Wales’ largestand most important organisations will all have stands at the Eisteddfod,with plenty of information about what they do – and how they do it.So if you’ve wanted to know more about music, art, culture, tourism,business, politics – you name it – come down to the Eisteddfod Maesand have a look round.

The Pink Pavilion is the focal point for all the competing during theweek, so whether you’re into singing, brass bands, presentations or the

splendour of the Gorsedd ceremonies, come to the Pavilion to watchsome of Wales’ brightest talents competing for the accolade of winningat the National Eisteddfod.

This year’s Eisteddfod will be very different in a number of ways, nonemore so than the venue for Y Lle Celf. Utilising the remains of the oldsteelworks, Wales’ annual national art gallery will be housedunderground in the stack annealer basement – or one of theunderground buildings which used to hold the heavy steel rollingmachines, with plenty of space for us to exhibit art, with additionalspace for larger pieces if required.

For those of us who’ve always believed that the county of BlaenauGwent is land-locked, you’re in for a surprise as we welcome you toEbbw Vale beach – at least for the week! Come and join in some beachfun on the Maes and enjoy beach games and activities every day, thanksto Blaenau Gwent Council, who’ve also been putting together aprogramme of extreme sports in another of the undergroundbasements.

Coupled with this, more relaxing activities such as face painting,storytelling, painting, quizzes, live music and much more in stands andstalls across the Maes, you’ll just have to come back to see everythingyou missed on your first visit!


food

festi

val

festival of

THE twelfth Abergavenny Food Festival takes place over the weekendof 18th and 19th September. This year it will have an Italian flavourthanks to a partnership with “Divin Gusto” Puglia Food & WineFestival which takes place in Ceglie Messapica (in the province ofBrindisi) in July. The very best wine, salami, cheese, pasta and olive oilwill be on offer, alongside other attractions of the region.

As well as the extensive markets, Abergavenny also hosts aprogramme of individually ticketed masterclasses, tutored tastings andtalks featuring the brightest stars of the culinary scene. This year’sguests include: Jose Pizarro, the Spanish chef from rural Extramadura,and culinary wizard behind Borough Market legendwww.tapasbrindisa.com Brindisa’s highly successful foray into a trio ofLondon eateries; TV chef Val Warner (What to Eat Now, BBC 2), andRichard Bertinet of the Bertinet Kitchen and Cookery School in Bath.

The return of Chef Bruno Loubet to the Zetter Hotel in London’sClerkenwell has been the most eagerly-anticipated opening of the year.Loubet’s stellar career took him from Head Chef at the Manoir auxQuat’ Saisons and Le Petit Blanc, to winning Times ‘Restaurant of theYear’ with both Bistrot Bruno and L’Odeon. Then he left for Australia.Now he is back! And here in Abergavenny he’ll be giving a masterclasson French Bistro cooking.

Top Welsh talents James Sommerin and Richard Davies (formeropponents on BBC 2’s Great British Menu) will join forces to present agreat Welsh menu. James Sommerin has held a Michelin star at TheCrown at Whitebrook since 2007, while Bridgend-born Richard Davieswon his first star last year at the Bybrook Restaurant at the ManorHouse Hotel near Bath.

Cyrus Todiwala OBE, the legendary chef patron of Café SpiceNamaste and Anand George, rising star of Cardiff’s Mint and Mustard,will combine forces to demonstrate the cuisines of two of India’sancient communities: the Parsis of Mumbai, and the Syrian Christian’sof Kerala.

The line-up also includes Jekka McVicar, the Queen of Herbs and‘guru’ to many top chefs, including Jamie Oliver. There will also be anopportunity to take tea and sandwiches with food writers Helen Saberiand Bee Wilson while they discuss Tea and Sandwich – their newadditions to the delightful ‘Edible’ series of food memoirs publishedby Reaktion Books. Food writers Tim Hayward, Christopher Hirst andCharles Campion will also be in the mix as part of a lively programmeof talks and debates.

Fine food, top chefs and wonderful food producers return for the 12th AbergavennyFood Festival this September. Living Wales looks at this year’s line-up.


Abergvenny Food Festival

food


food

festi

val


Abergvenny Food Festival

The full Festival programme, and a comprehensive Fringeprogramme can be viewed at www.abergavennyfoodfestival.comfrom mid-July when box office goes live.

Sign up for news updates and be in with a chance of winning ameal for two at the renowned Walnut Tree Inn near Abergavenny.Book your six-venue stroller ticket online before 1 September andpay last year’s prices. Free entry to all children under 16 ifaccompanied by an adult.

Tickets for all events can be bought online at or through theBorough Theatre box office on 01873 850805.

ABOVE Charles Campion MIDDLE TOP Richard DaviesMIDDLE BOTTOM Gerard Baker RIGHT Silvena RowBELOW James Sommerin OPPOSITE PAGE Valentine Warner


Chee

se

WonderfulWORDS Anne-Marie Smith MAIN PICTURE Nick Clarke

THE beautiful and atmospheric Cardiff Castle is to play host to this event(September 27th-28th), which attracts exhibitors and visitors across thelength and breadth of the UK, and marks the start of British CheeseWeek (September 27th – October 5th).

With a wealth of cheese producers and manufacturers in Wales, ourCapital will be used as the event’s location for the foreseeable future,adding its own charm and unique character to an event that is the focalpoint of the calendar for cheese makers, buyers and foodies fromaround the world.

The annual Festival brings together the UK’s 100 best cheese makersand offers visitors the chance to taste over 500 British cheeses, many ofthem produced in Wales, and among them True Taste Wales Food &Drink Award winners.

The True Taste Brand was created to promote the very best food anddrink that Wales has to offer, a standard against which produce couldbe judged and evaluated. The ethos of the True Taste Brand is GoodFood, True Taste, Real Pleasure. It conveys the idea that Wales is hometo a thriving and modern food culture. Each year, True Taste Wales givesawards to winners, runners up and those who are highly commended ina variety of categories, many of whom will exhibit at the forthcomingCheese Festival.

For example, The Lifetime Achievement Award for 2007/08 went toThelma Adams of Caws Cenarth Cheese. Located in the heart of WestWales, Caws Cenarth cheesemaking business was established in 1987 asa response to the E.C milk quotas which had threatened the viability ofthe family farm. Thelma and Gwynfor's initiative is acknowledged tohave instigated and led the revival of Welsh Farmhouse Caerffili andCaws Cenarth is now the oldest established producer of WelshFarmhouse Caerffili. Drawing on skills derived from a long familytradition of cheesemaking.

Caws Mynydd Du (Black Mountain Cheese) won the Dairy Product(Small Producer) Award. Andrew and Helen Meredith have developed atraditional, welsh, farmhouse cheese made from sheeps milk producedsolely from their own flock. The sheep are mainly Poll Dorset and PollDorset X and are fed purely on grass and crops grown and harvested onthe farm. Their cheese is pasteurised and safe for all to eat.

The reserve winner in the Dairy Product (Large Producer) was theDeriMon Oak Smoked Mature Welsh Cheddar. Derimon (translatedfrom Welsh means ‘The Oaks of Anglesey’). This family business isbased on several years of smoking for family and friends, using theirown 400 year old oak shavings and sawdust derived from natural galedamage!! This has now developed into a state of the art smokery, stillretaining the traditional recipes, some unique to DeriMon Smokery Ltdfor maximum flavour, but complying with all EU food safety legislation.This is the the only remaining smokery on the island of Anglesey.

At the forthcoming event in Cardiff, not only will you get theopportunity to see some of the afore-mentioned cheese producers inBritain’s biggest Cheese Market, you will also be able to sample andbuy. In addition visitors can enjoy an extraordinary diversity of food anddrink in the other markets on site. True Taste of Wales market willfeature a wide range of food and drink companies from across Walesgiving visitors a taste of the high quality produce available in thePrincipality.

Wales - famous for its singing, rugby, castles, myths and legends is now going to be hometo the Great British Cheese Festival this September. This prestigious event is held every

year in the UK and has been wowing cheese lovers for the past nine years.


Welsh cheese

Welsh cheese


Cheese


Welsh cheese

Of course, if you are not able to visit the Festival, you can always visitsome of the many dairies, farms and suppliers of Welsh cheeses.Abergavenny Fine Foods produce Pant ys Gawn Farm Welsh GoatCheese, Tintern, Y Fenni, and St Illtyd, whilst further afield inCarmarthenshire, Llanboidy Cheesemakers have been making excitingaward-winning traditional farmhouse cheeses with rich and subtleflavours for the past 25 years. This cheese is handmade in thetraditional way to a unique recipe and is then matured in its ownnatural rind and turned by hand on wooden shelving. After 12 /16weeks each batch is tasted to ensure the unique flavour has developedwhich has been called “the natural taste of Wales”

In Ceredigion, on the Gorwydd Farm, Caerphilly cheese is made.Gorwydd Caerphilly is matured on the farm for two months andexhibits a fresh lemony taste with a creamy texture to the outer (knowas "breakdown") and a firmer but moist inner.

Caerphilly is a traditional Welsh cheese named after the town andcounty in South Wales, where it was first produced by local farmers fordomestic use in order to use up surplus milk. In the 1830s it began tobe sold as a source of additional income.

After 1830, demand grew and is even reported that the cheese wasa favourite with Welsh miners as it is shallow in height and with a rindto protect it meant that it was easy to eat in the pits with dirty hands.

However, by 1910 little Caerphilly cheese was being made, forexport, because the farmers could no longer compete against cheapercheeses of England and abroad. During World War II the making ofany cheese but Cheddar was restricted to personal consumption. Afterthe war so little Caerphilly was being made in Wales that it took themseveral decades to recover.

Thankfully, this has now been rectified, and Caerphilly cheese andmany other welsh favourites can now be enjoyed by all and are easilyaccessible. Three other Welsh cheeses which need a mention (and areamongst my favourites) are the Perl Las - Welsh Organic Blue, Perl Wen- Organic Soft White Cheese (both from Caws Cenarth) and the CawsTeifi Cheese made in Swansea. This is an artisan cheese made from rawmilk, and the farm owners have won numerous national andinternational awards for their cheese. Their most renowned cheese,Celtic Promise, is a raw milk washed-rind cheese which is only one oftwo cheeses to have (so far) clinched the most prestigious prize inBritish cheese-making twice - Supreme Champion at the British CheeseAwards in 1998 and in 2005. Teifi has also won, on four occasions, theprestigious 'Dougal Campbell Memorial trophy for the best WelshCheese.

In Wales, we have some of the best cheeses in the UK essentiallyeaten with a refreshing glass of wine, or a delicious port. Enjoy!


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uTakeaway & delivery service

uChildren’s meals

uFacilities for disabled

uOutside catering available

uParties catered for

uCocktail Menu

uFully air conditioned and licensed

FFoorr bbooookkiinnggss aanndd ffuurrtthheerr iinnffoorrmmaattiioonn ccaallll

PASHA 11/4/10 21:16 Page 1

NESTLED in the green Sirhowy valley heading towards Newbridge, the ThreeHorseshoes is a treasure of a local hostelry hosted by Marc and Claire Price.Marc gave us a warm welcome, introducing himself as Master of the House - anickname that the gregarious gent earned from his rendition of his favouritesong featured in the musical Les Miserables. A feature of former karaoke nightsnow replaced by a different range of entertainment nights, Marc’s operaticleanings are now consigned to legend. Of course, like any good publican hestill has plenty of stories to tell and a generous welcome to extend.

Having spent years in the hospitality business Marc and Claire found theopportunity to forge a drinking and dining experience of their own lastDecember when they took over the Three Horseshoes.

What was it about the Three Horseshoes that stood out to Claire and Marc?“We loved the building, and were drawn to the traditional feel of the pub, ”said Marc. With its thick stone walls, open fire places and beer garden, thiscertainly is a place for all seasons and the Prices have played to its strengths inenhancing the original architecture and creating a homely feel in the main bar.

Astutely, they have made improvements to another main feature of the pub;the recently refurbished conservatory which has a light airy feel and opens ontothe stunning gardens.

Tastefully decorated the space easily accommodates 40 - 60 and is used as afunction room for parties and is also used by local businesses as aconference/meeting room facility. “It’s become a really useful, practical spaceand we want people to see it as a space where they can return time and againfor family events. We love being part of the community here and want toextend our welcome to everyone - there’s always room for new people tocome and explore the local area and sample our growing selection of realales,” Marc remarked.


quintessential cuisine

Living Wales discovers a warm welcome and a fine gourmet burgerat the Three Horseshoes, Pentwynmawr, near Blackwood.

WORDS & PICTURES Emma Assender EXTRA PICTURES Nick Clarke

happily taking the bait

JULY 2010 FOOD 27/6/10 22:10 Page 4

25



The community feel doesn’t stop here; the Prices are keen to offer theirpatrons - both regular and new with the warmest welcome possible. It’s not hardto see why they’ve built up a dedicated following. The couple are true to theirethos and genuinely love spending time with their clientele, making people aswelcome as if they were sharing their home, as Marc says, ‘Me casa es su casa!’(My house is your house).

The menu at the Three Horseshoes was packed full of hearty meals, handcooked using locally supplied goods. Again evidence of the community feelcomes through as Claire thinks it important to use locally sourced producewherever possible. Offerings such as Steak and Ale Pie and Hunters Chickenabound here alongside favourites such as steak, done however you like it.

The StartersWe started with Duck and Orange Pate and Whitebait. The Paté served ingenerous wedges alongside wholemeal bread, while the Whitebait piled into abowl served with a simple squeeze of lemon. The fish were crisped beautifully togive that satisfying crunch followed by the glorious salty flavour of the flesh.

I felt like a cartoon cat tucking in and polishing each one off before licking mylips and diving in for the next one. Meanwhile, Nick, my dining companion, gotstuck into his pate; a robust combination of the rich duck meat, balanced out bythe sweet citrus flavours of the orange perfectly complemented by the bread, thestart to the meal didn’t touch the sides.

The MainsNext came my Oven Baked Salmon Fillet and Nick’s 8oz Prime Beef Burger, thelatter was so big, once the thick chunky burger had been topped off with baconand a luscious coating of grilled cheese, that it couldn’t be contained betweentwo halves of bun. It came presented open on the plate with salad on one half ofthe bun and accompanied by Claire’s home-cooked chips. Nick did the tastyburger justice though and valiantly made up the burger in the usual stackedfashion, not quite dislocating his jaw in the process. The meat was well seasoned,bringing out the flavour of the beef while the bacon and cheese added punch.

The salad balanced out with a subtle crispness and the chips were cooked

perfectly with that crisp exterior giving way to a delicious, fluffy potato inside. Meanwhile I got to work on my salmon lavishly served in a delicate buttery

hollandaise sauce and presented with new potatoes, carrots and peas. Thesalmon was delicious with the sauce complementing the fish beautifully whilenot detracting from the flavour of the fillet.

The vegetables were cooked well, but retaining the bite to the carrot and thesweetness of the peas: A pleasing dish all round.

The DessertsMarc tempted us with the dessert menu, again showcasing the traditional feel,we chose from a range of delicious steamed puddings or lighter cheesecakes.Nick couldn’t resist the lure of the Steamed Apple Sponge Pudding withCustard, while I opted for the fruity appeal of the Raspberry Ripple Cheesecake.The Sponge Pudding arrived in a generous portion of custard while mycheesecake was presented with a selection of soft fruits and an individual jug ofcream. We happily set to, Nick making his way through the light sponge to findsmall, gently cooked pieces of apple and I enjoying the light, creamy cheesecakecomplementing the velvety sweetness of the raspberry topping.

ConclusionAll in all we experienced a satisfying, well balanced meal that reflects the heart ofthe genuinely hospitable atmosphere fostered at the Three Horseshoes. There’smore to it than just food, though. A programme of entertainment events are alsoon offer which include; a guest artiste the first Sunday of the month; Curry Nighteach Wednesday; Quiz night every Thursday and outings to Chepstow RaceCourse.

During our visit Marc told us some history about ground adjacent to the pub;In the days of the mines the car park was a field that was used to house the PitPonies during the pit two-week shut down.

Contact Marc on 01495 01495 237426 or pop in for a pint of real ale and achat! The Three Horseshoes is open 7 days a week, with food served fromTuesday - Saturday lunch served from 12 til 2pm, dinner from 6 - 9pm, Sundaylunch served from 12 til 2pm.

JULY 2010 FOOD 27/6/10 22:11 Page 5



With under 100 days to go before the Ryder Cup and the eyes of the worldgaze upon the Celtic Manor Resort, Living Wales visited the Rafters

Restaurant to see if the food was up to scratch.

WORDS Emma Assender PICTURES Nick Clarke

just for the halibut

JULY 2010 FOOD 27/6/10 22:04 Page 2


ON a balmy June evening Living Wales headed through the hills of southernGwent to uncover another fine dining experience. And what better place toenjoy the evening sunshine than overlooking the extensive grounds of theTwenty Ten golf course at the Celtic Manor Resort? The Twenty-TenClubhouse, incorporating Rafters restaurant nestles on the hills overlookingthe Usk River and enjoys a stunning view of the valley, the rolling hillsproviding a blissful backdrop against which to enjoy dinner. Raftersrestaurant itself is well named; the structure of the building having exposedwooden roof beams and making the most of the natural stone fireplaces togive a natural and luxurious feel.

The decor is simple, relying upon the character of the exposed stonefinishes so that nothing detracts from the beauty of the view outside, orindeed doesn’t hamper the view of the fairway for those following the game!Of course, the design here reminds you, as if it was required, as to theparamount reason for the venue: ardent golfers can delight in, or envy, thecondition of the fairways as they dine. Lighting here is minimal duringdaylight hours, the floor to ceiling windows to the west make the most ofthe gentle ambient light to bring a relaxing end to the day.

The service too, enhances a sense of casual fine dining - we werewelcomed by the team and were immediately offered drinks while we took inthe menu. Rafters - being one of 6 restaurants at the Resort - has a selectand well balanced a la carte menu, with something for the avid meat-eater,light fish dishes and a vegetarian option, all with a heavy emphasis on localWelsh ingredients with a sophisticated twist. Take for example, entrees, wewere offered 3 types of bread; ciabatta, wholemeal and sundried tomato,baked fresh in the kitchens each day served with an olive oil and balsamicvinegar dip and a basil butter to provoke a refreshing zing.

The StartersThe starters were brought to the table just as competition for the lastscraping of basil butter was hotting up and thus we diverted our attention tothe start of the meal: I opted for Seared Scallops, Squid Ink Risotto andCalamari to open while dining companion, Nick deliberated between the Porkand Pistachio Terrine and Warm Salad of Cockles, Bacon and Laverbread. Theseafood won over, particularly for its distinctly Welsh indigenous feel. Myscallops were cooked to a turn, retaining that firm meaty texture against thevelvety, salty tang of the squid ink risotto.

Nick’s Warm Salad had immediate punch, with the lively vinegarseasoning of the cockles awakening the tastebuds ahead of the smokeflavours of the bacon. The laverbread, balanced with the crunchy texture ofoatmeal traditionally used with seaweed finished the dish.

The MainsNext came our main courses selected from the Usk Valley Sirloin Steak andBraised Lamb Shoulder that were on offer. Breast of Maggett Chicken wasalso a temptation but in the end I couldn’t resist the siren call of the Baked

Pant-Ys-Gawn Goats Cheese with roast celeriac, tarragon and orangedressing. I am by no means a vegetarian but having a soft spot for Goats’cheese and Welsh Goats’ cheese at that - I felt fully justified in my choice. Mystomach concurred and after devouring the warm, soft cheese with the friedbread base to give a real crispy crunch I felt fully satisfied. The tarragonadded an aromatic twist, alongside the citrus lift of the orange that trulybrought out the rich flavour of the cheese.

Nick, a faithful steak fan, decided on something a little different this timeand continued the seafood theme by choosing Halibut Wrapped in CrispyPotatoes served with Ruby Chard, with a Mushroom and Red Wine Jus. Hewas treated to an unusual but delicious alternative: the halibut was firm andsucculent while, though described as ‘wrapped’ it was more like ‘slightlyhidden by’ the 3 slices of crispy potato which were positioned on top.However, their crispness did not disappoint and supported thecharacteristically subtle flavour of the fish. The dish was finished off with athick, creamy red wine jus containing mushrooms for an added touch ofdecadence to a beautifully cooked and light dish.

Additionally, we ordered chunky chips and a Roquette & Parmesan Saladto enjoy with our meal, the chips cut into perfect edges and fried untilgolden brown and fluffy on the inside. The salad was fresh, delightfullypeppery as Roquette should be with the tang of the Parmesan tocomplement.

The DessertsTo finish we could choose from the extensive selection of Welsh Cheeses for acheeseboard, Treacle Tart, Creme Caramel or a range of ice creams andsorbets. I ordered the Chocolate Marquise with butterscotch sauce, adecadent terrine of unadulterated cocoa flaked with white chocolate curlsand finished with a sweet touch from the butterscotch. A chocoholics dreamthis certainly hit all the right notes! Nick tucked into the Welsh Sherry Triflewhile I marvelled in chocolate luxury, and was immediately taken with thelight cream topping that yielded to a layer of sweet, gooey fruit underneath.

The sherry was evident but without taking him over the legal driving limit!The dish had a final surprise languishing in the layers; just as Nick reachedthe bottom, he discovered the ideal finish to the dish, a crisp finish ofpoached pear to cleanse the palate. Bliss!

The ConclusionWe finished the evening taking in the last rays of the sun with coffee in thelounge area. Again, the seating was positioned against the windows to giveclientele the most of the view, offering a comfortable and salubrious end to arefined dining experience.

Rafters dinner menu is available from 6pm - 10pm daily, lunch is served12pm -2.30pm with Sunday lunch served from 12pm -3pm. To book your table call the Reservations Team at the Celtic Manor Resort on01633 410262.


JULY 2010 FOOD 28/6/10 12:30 Page 3


recipe

INGREDIENTS

5oz Pollock Fillet

Butter Beans (soaked for 2 days)

Chicken Stock

5 Asparagus Spears

20g Spinach

40g Chorizo Sausage

20g Samphire

METHOD1. Soak the Butter Beans 2 days in advance,then place into a saucepan and cook in wateron a low heat for 2-3 hours. If you can’t findButter Beans then substitute with boiled baby

potatoes. 2. Steam the Asparagus for 2-3 minutes.3. Roast the Chorizo in its natural juices thencut into 5 slices to garnish the final dish.4. Steam the Samphire for 2-3 minutes butdon’t season as the natural salts in thevegetable are sufficient.6. Season the Pollock, then pan-fry for 2minutes each side on a moderate heat toensure the skin is crispy.7. Start dressing the plate with Butter Beansaround the outside and the Samphire andwilted spinach in the centre.8. Place the Chorizo around the dish thenplace the Pollock in the centre (see above).9. Finally ad a little Chicken Stock and enjoy!

Pollock with Spanish Butter Beans

Stephen Terry, Chef & Owner of the Hardwickrestaurant in abergavenny provides this month’s recipe

JULY RECIPE 27/6/10 22:18 Page 8

Delicious food & greatvalue family feasts!

HOW TO FIND USFROM MERTHYR: Head towards Abergavenny and take the first exit off the Tredegar

roundabout signposted Trefil. Continue approx 300 yards and we are on the right.FROM ABERGAVENNY:Take the Heads of The Valley road signposted Merthyr. Continuepast Brynmawr and Ebbw Vale until you reach the Tredegar Roundabout.Take your third

exit signposted Trefil. Continue approx 300 yards and we are on the right.

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Monday 8.30pm - 2pm Tuesday - Friday 8.30am - 5pm

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THE Karate Kid, 12-year-old DreParker (Jaden Smith) could've beenthe most popular kid in Detroit, buthis mother's (Taraji P. Henson) latestcareer move has landed him in China.Dre immediately falls for his classmateMei Ying - and the feeling is mutual -but cultural differences make such afriendship impossible. Even worse,Dre's feelings make an enemy of theclass bully, Cheng who puts "thekarate kid" on the floor with ease.With no friends in a strange land, Drehas nowhere to turn butmaintenance man Mr. Han (JackieChan), who is secretly a master ofkung fu.

WEDNESDAY 28TH JULYJACKIE CHAN, JADEN SMITH

THE KARATE KID (PG, 126MINS) RATING ***

Also released this July 2010

AT long last, fans of the original 80’s action classic, aregifted with an updated version starring some ofHollywood’s big boys as well as a cage fighter from theUFC. The frantic action scenes disguise a slightlyclumsy story driven by corruption and betrayal.

The original A-Team consisted of four Vietnam vets,this new version the A-Team guys are covert operatorsin present-day Iraq. As the withdrawal of Americanforces looms, the team learns of a plot by formerSaddam Hussein loyalists. If the bad guys succeed inshipping U.S. Mint plates that happen to be inBaghdad out of Iraq, the U.S. monetary system is atrisk.

True to the original series, Col. John “Hannibal”Smith and his daring A-Team boys are convicted by amilitary court for crimes they didn’t commit. Smith andcompany were set up, from the inside, arrested,sentenced and dispatched to separate federal prisons.

Liam Neeson, returning to the action genre hetackled in 2008’s Taken, stars as A-Team leader Smith,

though his undoubted acting talents are not used tothe fore here. The A-Team movie is more aboutsmirking and hanging on for the ride.

Bradley Cooper co-stars as Templeton “Face” Peck,the playboy of the group; Sharlto Copley (District 9) isH.M. “Howlin’ Mad” Murdock, the team’s expert pilotand master of accents; and martial arts fighter Quinton“Rampage” Jackson steps into Mr. T’s boots as thesuddenly, inconveniently peace-loving B.A. Baracus.

Neeson, Cooper, Copley and Jackson at least share abreezy camaraderie, but the overkill action they engagein falls lacks a little fun. The A Team are pursued by asleazy CIA agent (Patrick Wilson) and earnest Armyofficer (Jessica Biel) who is holding up the femaleinfluence in what really is a male over-dominated film.All of which means The A-Team is fine entertainmentfor the original fans and for pre-teen boys who prefermeaningless action in their entertainment though willunlikely attract a new audience.


at the movies

Friday 2 July 2010The Ballroom (15)Lymelife (15)Shrek Forever After (U) (3D) Thursday 8 July 2010Predators (18)Friday 9 July 2010Jerusalem (15)Leaving (15)London River (12A)The Twilight Saga: Eclipse (12A)Friday 16 July 2010BluebeardThe Concert (15)Inception (12A)Mega Piranha (15)Monday 19 July 2010Toy Story 3 (also in 3D)Friday 23 July 2010City Island (12A)Ivul (15)The Rebound (15)Splice (15)Wednesday 28 July 2010The A Team (12A)Karate Kid (PG)Friday 30 July 2010Beautiful Kate (15)Down Terrace (12A)Frontier Blues (12A)Gainsbourg (15)Separado (12A)South Of The Border (15)

THE A TEAM (12A, 117MINS) RATING ***

IN THE TWILIGHT SAGA:ECLIPSE, Bella once again findsherself surrounded by danger asSeattle is ravaged by a string ofmysterious killings and amalicious vampire continues herquest for revenge. In the midstof it all, she is forced to choosebetween Edward and Jacob —knowing that her decision hasthe potential to ignite thestruggle between vampire andwerewolf. With her graduationquickly approaching, Bella isconfronted with the mostimportant decision of her life.

WEDNESDAY 28TH MAYBradley Cooper, Liam Neeson, Sharlto Copley, Jessica Biel

FRIDAY 9TH JULYKristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner, Billy Burke

TWILIGHT SAGA: ECLIPSE (12A, 124MINS) RATING ****

JULY 2010 FILMS 28/6/10 00:41 Page 2

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music feature

THE Welsh Proms Cardiff celebrates its 25th Anniversary with eight orchestralconcerts, free daytime concerts, a series of late afternoon concerts plus Carnival,Gamelan, Folk, String Quartet, Saxophone, Organ & Venezuelan Proms, not toforget the Tiddly Prom and The Family Prom for children and adults of all ages.

The Festival’s Artistic Director Owain Arwel Hughes CBE will be joined by fiveof the finest orchestras; BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Royal PhilharmonicOrchestra, Orchestra of Welsh National Opera, Bournemouth SymphonyOrchestra and the BBC Concert Orchestra.

This year the Welsh Proms Cardiff brings some of the world’s finest youngsoloists to the National Concert Hall of Wales. RayChen will perform Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto inthe Romantic Prom (Thursday 22 July, 7.30pm) andAlison Balsom will play Hummel’s Concerto Utgorn infront of a packed St David’s Hall at the Last Night ofthe Welsh Proms which will be conducted by OwainArwel Hughes CBE.

To open the 2010 Welsh Proms season will be TheCarnival Prom. This concert is a collaboration betweenArts Active, the education, community & audienceengagement team for St David’s Hall & the NewTheatre and South Wales Intercultural CommunityArts (SWICA). “Dragon” is a spectacular mix ofworldwide carnival influences with sambapercussionists, drumming, chanting and carnivalsong. Under the ever-knowing and tranquil eye ofMerlin the Magician, two and four-legged stilt dragonmonsters will do battle in flamboyant costumes.

The Welsh Proms include the ever popular ChoralProm with Yvonne Howard, Brindley Sherrat, CeriWilliams and Gwyn Hughes Jones on Sunday 18 Julyat 7pm. Only Men Aloud will perform in the glitzyStage & Screen Prom (Wednesday 21 July, 7.30pm)and The Family Prom (Saturday 17 July, 11am) withKirsten O’Brien as the Narrator will thrill children of allages. The Epic Prom under the baton of Thierry Fischer will feature on Monday19 July at 7.30pm and Friday Night is Music Night Prom on 23 July at 8pm,with opera sensations Alfie Boe and Rebecca Evans, promises to be a veryspecial concert.

Councillor Nigel Howells Executive Member for Sport Leisure and Culture,Cardiff Council said:

“The main theme for this year’s festival is celebration and St David’s Hall hasgone all out to offer a truly exciting programme for this year’s Welsh PromsCardiff. I hope that everyone will join us to celebrate this wonderful milestone inthe Welsh cultural calendar. Be a part of it!”

There will be world music from Java to Venezuela, Klezmer to Balkan and

from Bert’s Magical Musical Farmyard to Jurassic Park & The flight of theBumblebee rubbing shoulders with some of the finest classical composersincluding Elgar, Bach Mozart, Verdi, Wagner and Mendelssohn. There is definitely something for all musical tastes at the Welsh Proms Cardiff!

As part of this year’s celebrations St David’s Hall are offering a number ofFREE daytime concerts. Wonderbrass are favourites on the Welsh jazz scene,performing an eclectic repertoire that encompasses jazz and pop, withinfluences from juggernaut funk, filthy blues, spicy Latin, ska and upliftingAfrican township melodies.

Catherine Wright a classically trained pianist andClegg Power Duo will present a repertoire largelybased around the 'Great American Songbook' alongwith alternative melodies by the greats of the bebopera.

To add to this diverse programme of concerts wehave further Daytime Prom events, with the StringQuartet Prom on Thursday 22 July at 5pm. TheMavron String Quartet, Wales' leading quartet and StDavid's Hall Ensemble in Residence, provide a wide-ranging repertoire from the classics to light andpopular favourites through to new and adventurousmusic.

The Organ Prom features with Huw Williams onSaturday 24 July at 1pm. The Afternoon Prom withGinge & CelloBoi offer two of the newest talents onthe Cardiff scene with a blend of bluegrass, country,gospel and jazz on Monday 19 July at 5pm. LunarSaxophone Quartet return following a sell-out concertat last year's Welsh Proms Cardiff in the SaxophoneProm on Friday 23 July at 5pm. Classic Rhythm Promon Wednesday 21 July at 5pm offers sparklingperformances of Classic Rhythm with flute, keyboards,marimba, tam-tam, piccolo and cabasa to name but afew of their instruments.

Gamelan Prom (Sunday 18 July, 7.30pm) with Cardiff Gamelan and specialguests will take you on a musical and visual journey, performing on St David'sHall's beautiful bronze Javanese Gamelan.

Following on from the success of last year’s Folk Prom the Hall is delighted towelcome folk dynasty, the Waterson Family back to the Welsh Proms on Tuesday20 July at 7.30pm. This is a rare opportunity to see this extended folk familyperform live together on one stage, one not too be missed!

The Welsh Proms Cardiff is certainly one of the great success stories and oneof the highlights of the Cardiff Festival bringing 20,000 people annually into thecapital for a superb celebration of music. For tickets visit www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk or call 02920 87 8444.

be part of thepromsThe Welsh Proms celebrates it 25th Year at the St David’s Hall

Cardiff this month. Living Wales looks at this year’s event.

WIN TICKETS!We have 2 tickets for the Welsh Proms thanks to our friends at The St David’s Hall. To win answer the followingquestion. Who will be narrating the Family Prom this year?Send your answer to Welsh Proms Competition, Living Wales magazine, 2 Town Bridge Buildings, Park Road,Pontypool, Torfaen. NP4 6JE. Closing date Friday 16th July 2010. Good luck!

Ray Chen

JULY MUSIC&THEATRE 28/6/10 00:38 Page 2

BOOK YOURTICKETS NOW!



health

IT’S that time of year again - how many of us dread those warm, dry days ofSummer, knowing that the cold season has ended only to give way to the relentlessrelease of pollen? One of the most common allergies in the UK, alongside asthmaand eczema, around 12 million people in Britain suffer with Seasonal Allergic Rhinitisor Hayfever - and it’s an endless challenge for the pharmaceutical companies tocome up with the most effective remedy.

But, what causes this? The good news is Hayfever manifests itself differently indifferent people as some can develop an allergy to certain types of pollen, but notothers. Hayfever isn’t restricted to those living in the countryside or even to timeswhen the lawnmowers come out: There are a number of different allergies from TreePollen to Grass Pollen to Flower Pollen, all of which are released at different times ofthe year.What happens in the body? The immune system responds to Hayfever in the same way as any other allergicreaction: An allergen comes into contact with the body - in this case, a pollen grainis inhaled through the nose or mouth. The immune system registers this foreignbody, and according to its sensitivity will begin a response to fight the foreign body.The body releases cells called Mast Cells that work to release a hormone - histamineto protect the body by promoting the body’s cells to inflame and create mucus tocoat the cells and the offending allergen: In the case of allergy this defencemechanism is overdone, producing too much histamine and causing the symptomsof Hayfever.

As an allergy therapist I can help identify the particular allergy and work with youto control it. The best time to identify and tackle the allergy is January / Februarytime, when plants and trees are producing very little - as the body is able to repairand rest during this time. The homeopathic treatment process normally takes two

years, since in most cases my client and I need to repeat the homeopathic treatmentfor two consecutive January/February seasons. The first phase of treatment willreduce the symptoms and by the second summer after the second phase oftreatment most Hayfever sufferers are symptom- free. Pollen allergies can be tackledat other times of the year, however if the immune system is tackling an allergy it’sless receptive to the healing remedies. For those wishing to wait until the pollen season is over there are someother practical tips to make your Summer more comfortable:- Take your annual holiday at the height of the hay fever season - most beneficiallocations tend to be on the coast where the air is clearer.- Avoid direct contact with any pollens: Close windows and doors. When driving useair conditioning rather than opening windows. Do not pick flowers or have flowersindoors.- Avoid going out in the early evening and mid-morning when the pollen count ishighest.- Air bed linen in the early mornings to prevent the wind blowing the pollen in.- Avoid drying clothes and linen outside during high pollen count so that pollengrains are not trapped in the fabric and introduced inside.- Stay indoors with doors and windows closed when the pollen count is high. Thiscan reduce exposure to pollen by a factor of 10,000.- Smear Vaseline inside the nostrils to provide an extra barrier to trap pollen grains.- Take at least 2 grams of Vitamin C daily to boost the immune system.- Use an ioniser in the bedroom.- Wear wraparound sunglasses when outside during a high pollen count.

Hayfever helpLooking at the causes and remedies of Hayfeverwith Allergy Therapist, Emma Assender.

For further information call 01495 711816or email [email protected]

More than just a park!

Fantastic fun for all the familyawaits you at Parc Bryn Bach!

JUNE2010 HEALTH 28/6/10 00:48 Page 2

JUNE2010 HEALTH 28/6/10 00:49 Page 3


fashion

JULY 2010 FASHION 27/6/10 23:58 Page 2

fashion


fashion

The Summertime Festival season is upon us and even if you didn't manage toget tickets to Glastonbury, our style pages should still leave you in that chilledout party mode. Check out our casual selection guaranteed to get headsturning, especially if topped off with a trilby: what better way to keep the sunoff while retaining that air of mystery and understated shabby-chic!

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in the home


“Make hay while the sun shines” is theaddage, so we're all about taking the insideout this month - How about grabbing abarbeque and heading to the great outdoors?We've got something for every type of al-fresco get together from the simple grab andgo bucket style to a more permanent outdoorcooking feature for those gents who love toshow off their culinary skills. And for those ofyou who care about the environment we've

sourced some biomass briquettes for a guilt-free cook-out. The kids are sure to love thejolly colours and polka dots of our range fromStrawberry Fool. But picnics aren’t just forlittle ones; we have some stylish, yet durableitems for the big kids for a touch of kitschcourtesy of Berry Red this summer - With arange of brightly coloured goblets and jugsit’s sure to be Pimms o’clock in style, whereveryou are!

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JULY 2010 INTERIORS 28/6/10 00:03 Page 2

in the home


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THE Heads of the Valleys Innovation Programme (HOVIP) is all abouthelping businesses survive, develop and grow. HOVIP Manager, PhilBurkhard, explains, “Innovation often stems from sharing ideas and weencourage businesses to think collaboratively and to work together,especially through our successful business clusters.”

He continues, “But partnership is not just for the businesses wesupport. Within HOVIP we have actively sought links with otherorganisations so that we can open up opportunities for the businesseswe serve. Team HOVIP includes a range of different partners – from themembers of our Steering Group (the Welsh Assembly Government, fiveHeads of the Valleys local authorities and South Wales Chamber ofCommerce) to the sponsors of the Innovation Awards, and deliverypartners and support organisations, from both public and private sector– all proving that 1 + 1 can equal many times more than 2.”

The Heads of the Valleys Innovation Awards and Marketplace event –held this year on 24 June at Bryn Meadows Golf, Hotel & Spa – is oneexample of public and private sector organisations working together.The event sponsors – University of Wales Global Academy, BT, HSBC,Capital Law, South Wales Chamber of Commerce, FS4B and Equinox PR– have linked with HOVIP’s Partners and suppliers to celebrate andpromote innovation across the region.

HOVIP has also recently supported three local authority partners.HOVIP sponsored the Innovation Award at the 2010 Merthyr TydfilBusiness Awards for the second year. The winner was Rollspack UK, afamily owned and run business with the only Class 10,000Pharmaceutical Grade clean room facility in Western Europemanufacturing wet and dry wipes for a wide range of industries. Thisbusiness has also earned a Swan Label – the highest eco-standard in theworld.

HOVIP sponsored the Innovation Award at the 2010 Rhondda CynonTaff Business Awards, a category introduced for the first time this year.The winner DecTek Ltd and sister company, DecTag Ltd, caught the eyeof the judges for their cutting edge product development, as a result ofextensive partnership working, for their ruggedized intelligent tagswhich can tag anything from luggage to livestock. Innovation was high on the agenda at the June Torfaen County BoroughCouncil business event, when guest speaker Dr Paul Thomas, TheBusiness Doctor, urged businesses to manage people more creatively.HOVIP’s sponsorship of the event was aimed at encouraging newcomersto join this business forum.

“Involvement with these Business Awards dovetails well with our ownInnovation Awards,” explains Phil Burkhard. “We are creating an‘innovation ladder’ with winners of the Innovation categories in the local

authority awards gaining automatic entry to the HoV InnovationAwards. In turn, the winners of the HoV Innovation Awards are enteredinto the Wales Innovation Awards - a great encouragement andadditional benefit for all entrants as well as another way to embed aculture of innovation in the region.”

As well as awards and events, HOVIP is partnering with further andhigher education institutions in unique ways.

In response to a research exercise with HOVIP businesses, CardiffUniversity, in partnership with HOVIP, has developed and run a series ofmarketing workshops for local businesses in the area. The success of thispilot programme is driving future collaborative projects.

HOVIP is in the early stages of a joint initiative with ColegMorgannwg and other partners, such as the Taste of Enterprise, todevelop an International Trade Fair – ‘China comes to Merthyr’ - atEaster 2012.

“We are keen to develop relationships with other third parties,” saysPhil Burkhard. “John Lewis Partnership is sponsoring an event for ourTurning Heads Club members in September and BT is hosting us inDecember. These are excellent examples of how working togetherproduces results for everyone.”

Working in partnership and collaborating with others is acknowledgedacross the business world as a driver of success. Here HOVIP demonstrates

that working together can produce great results for everyone involved.

If you would like to find out how you can benefit from HOVIP, contact Phil Burkhard

on 01685 725469 or Email [email protected] or visit www.hovip.org.uk


businessINNOVATION drives successA unique opportunity tobecome more profitableIn association with

Partnership :1 + 1 = 2+++

Proud winners of the Merthyr Tydfil 2010 Innovation Award

JULY HOVIP 28/6/10 01:09 Page 2


finance

Chancellor George Osbourne delivered hisemergency budget on 22 June.We were allwarned that it was going to hurt when theTories came into power. Gavin Watkinslooks at the areas that will affect you?

Income taxPersonal income tax allowance to be increased by £1,000 in April to£7,475. Some 23 million basic rate taxpayers will gain up to £170 a year.The higher rate income tax threshold will remain frozen to 2013/14, with along-term objective to increase the personal allowance to £10,000.

VATOn January 4 2011 Value added tax (VAT) will rise from 17.5% to 20%. Therise will generate more than £13 billion a year by the end of this Parliamentand zero-rated items will remain exempt from VAT over the course of thisParliament.

Capital Gains Tax (CGT)CGT remains at 18% for low and middle-income savers but from 23rd Junetaxpayers on higher rates will pay 28%. The 10% CGT rate forentrepreneurs which currently applies to the first £2m qualifying gains willbe extended to the first £5m.

The CGT changes should bring in almost £1bn extra, the great majorityfrom additional income tax.

Pensions State pension will be linked once more to earnings from April next year,with the pension guaranteed to rise in line with earnings, prices or 2.5%,whichever is the greater. The Government will accelerate the increase instate pension age to 66.

The public sector The Government is asking public sector workers to accept a two-year payfreeze, with protection for the 1.7 million public servants earning less than£21,000. Those low-paid workers will receive a flat pay-rise worth £250 inboth years.

Public service pensions will rise in line with consumer prices rather thanretail prices, saving over £6 billion a year by the end of the Parliament.

BenefitsFrom next year - with the exception of the state pension and pension credit- benefits and tax credits will rise in line with consumer prices rather than

retail prices, saving over £6 billion a year by the end of the Parliament. Child benefit will be frozen for the next three years. The Government

will introduce a medical assessment for Disability Living Allowance from2013 for new and existing claimants.

Housing Benefit will be reformed with a maximum limit of £400 a week,in a package saving £1.8 billion a year by the end of the Parliament. Thetotal welfare shake-up will save the country £11 billion by 2014/15.

The Government will abolish the health in pregnancy grant from April2011, restrict the Sure Start maternity grant to the first child only andexpect lone parents to look for work when their youngest child goes toschool.

Tax credits will be reduced to families earning over £40,000 next year,the taper rate at which awards are reduced will be increased, the babyelement will be removed for new children from April 2011 as will the one-off payment to new workers over 50 from April 2012.

The child element of the child tax credit will rise by £150 aboveindexation next year in a £2 billion-a-year commitment to low-incomefamilies.

Business and bank taxes From January 2011, the Government will introduce a bank levy, which willapply to the balance sheets of UK banks and building societies and the UKoperations of foreign banks. Smaller banks will not be liable for the levy,which when fully in place is expected to raise over £2 billion per year.

From April 2011, the threshold at which employers start to pay NationalInsurance will rise by £21 per week above indexation.

However, the self-employed and those in partnerships missed out. Whilesmall companies were promised a cut in corporation tax from next April to20pc, the 3.5 million self employed and in partnerships saw Labour's higherrate of income tax maintained and saw their capital allowances reducedfrom 2012. Any expense on machinery and equipment over £25,000 willnow take 12 years to reclaim against tax. Three years ago it took only eightyears – but under Labour and now the new Government these incentivesfor businesses to invest have been eroded.

The Chancellor said that businesses would still be better off because oflower corporation tax rates but, as with Labour, he conveniently forgot thatmost businesses are not companies.

New government,new budget, new rules!

In association with Medina Lynch Chartered Certified Accountants Tel: 029 2064 4624

MAY FINANCE 28/6/10 01:21 Page 3

46

advertising feature

WITH budgets restricted in the currenteconomic climate, and time at a premium,many businesses are concentrating much oftheir time and resources on day to daysurvival. However, quality leadership andmanagement are crucial to the success andlongevity of businesses, and to the Welsheconomy as a whole.

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Over 50 years of collective experience in HRand training taught the pair that the key tobusiness success is people, and theyrecognised that many firms don’t have theexpertise to manage and develop their staff totheir full potential.

Deciding to combine their decades ofexperience working for large public sectororganisations and international private sectorcompanies, the pair set up 4WardDevelopment in March 2009, opening anoffice in Llantarnam.Janet explains that setting up in business witha close personal friend – somethingconvention dictates should be avoided - wasan easy decision to make:

“Denise and I have the same passion forpeople, for getting the best out of them, andwe share the same values and work ethic.Denise spent years in the public sector and myexperience was with international businesses,so we had complementary skills andexperiences to offer. “After years of talking about the same issuesover the dinner table, it made perfect sensefor us to combine what we had to offer andset up on our own!”

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JULY 4WARD DEVELOPMENT 28/6/10 11:30 Page 4

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the pair had, achieved Investors in Peoplestatus and became an approved centre for theInstitute of Leadership and Management (ILM).Denise and Janet’s hard work has grownturnover to £1.8m and they have built animpressive client base including medical lasermanufacturer Magstim, the PortTalbot Corus steel plant andthe Claire Price Beautychain.

Denise puts theyoung company’ssuccess down tothe wealth ofexperience onwhich it isfounded:

“Over ourmany years inthe HR andtraining sectors,we have learnt justhow important apersonal touch is,and having regularface-to-face contact withsomeone you can trust andbuild a lasting relationship with.We work closely with our clients,giving practical hands-on guidance whileminimising disruption to their daily operations.Basically, we become a seamless part of theirteams, working behind the scenes to helpmake sure any problems are dealt with quicklyand that employees reach their full potential.We get a real buzz from seeing our clients’

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JULY 4WARD DEVELOPMENT 28/6/10 11:31 Page 5

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AberdareTel: 01685 884330

Direct Booking Line 01685 884465

COVER REDESIGN 15/10/07 00:42 Page 11

To Book an Appointment call01495 750030

or visit www.frenchautosolutions.comCrumlin Road, Old Furnace, Pontypool,Torfaen. NP4 6UR

South Wales’ leading Citroen, Peugeot & RenaultSpecialist offering you the highest standard of car care.

Here are a few things we offerThe most advanced electronic diagnosticsServicing under manufacturers warrantyGenuine or high quality replacement partsFull Air Con Services availableFriendly, helpful staffConveniently located in Pontypool awayfrom the heavy traffic of Newport & CardiffWe offer the same high quality of service toall makes & models

AA PPllAACCEE IINNTTHHEE SSUUNNBeautiful Family apartment in

PortugalAA PPllAACCEE IINNTTHHEE SSUUNN

Portugal

PERFECT FAMILYHOLIDAY AWAITS!!!

Nr Albufeira, Central AlgarveBeautiful First Floor Apartment in quiet

Complex with Communal Pool.Beautiful Setting only

5 Minutes Walk to Beach. Sleeps 4/5 (2 Bedrooms). Also includes

comfortable lounge, 2 bedrooms, kitchen,dining area.

Visit www.saorafael.co.ukFor further information and

prices call Barbara on

029 20254855or 0780 9270407DATES AVAILABLE TO RENT

THROUGHOUT THE YEARPERFECT FAMILY

HOLIDAY AWAITS!!!

To Book an Appointment call01495 750030

or visit www.frenchautosolutions.comCrumlin Road, Old Furnace, Pontypool,Torfaen. NP4 6UR


PLACES TO STAY HOME & AWAY TO BOOK YOUR SPACE CALL 01495 750600

Hirwaun Hotel/Restaurant

The Ty-Newydd Country HotelCF44 9SX, Hirwaun T. 01685 813433E. relax@tynewyddcountryhotel.co.ukwww.tynewyddcountryhotel.co.ukOpen: All year Rooms: 28 Ensuite: 28The Ty Newydd Country Hotel is set at the end of alengthy drive off the A4059 on the edge of the BreconBeacons National Park and has everything you havebeen looking for - tranquillity, comfort, excellent foodand some of the most beautiful scenery in Wales righton its doorstep.The 28 en suite bedrooms are complemented by theelegant Foxhunter Suite with its adjoining Olympic Bar;a particularly popular choice for weddings andbanquets, the George Restaurant, serving freshlyprepared locally sourced food, the residents bar withthree quarter height oak panelling and residents loungewith an open fireplace and adjoining gallery.All our standard rates include full Welsh breakfast.

Standard Room Rate: Single £65 Double £85Twin £85 Family £105

Deluxe Room Rate: Single £80 Double £80Twin £80 Family £120

Superior Room Rate: Single £95 Double £115Twin N/A Family N/A

Special Corporate RateDinner Bed & Breakfast

£70

Crickhowell Hotel/Restaurant

The Dragon HotelCrickhowellT. 01873 810 362www.dragoncrickhowell.co.ukOpen: All year Rooms: 15 Ensuite: 15The Dragon is a very old hostelry located onthe High Street. The town is regarded as a jewelof the Brecon Beacons /Black MountainsNational Park. Nestling in the gorgeous Uskvalley, Crickhowell is surrounded by mountainsand comprises a Norman castle and acollection of early Georgian houses andcottages. It's a beautiful spot and a perfect basefor adventures in the National Park.

Standard Room Rate: Single £45Double/Twin £65

Family Roome.g. 2 Adults + 2 Children(16 and under) - En-Suite£105

Superior Room Rate: Double £78Twin N/A Family N/A

Torfaen Pub/Restaurant/Accomodation

The Rifleman’s ArmsNP4 9QS, BlaenavonT. 01495 792297Open: All year Rooms: 5 Ensuite: 5Plus sauna roomWelcoming, quality accommodation in comfortable, well equipped guestrooms. Fully Licensed, large family dinning room.Room rate: Single £30 Double £60 Family £80.

Aberdare Hotel/Camping/Cafe

Dare Valley Country ParkAberdareT. 01685 874672www.darevalleycountrypark.co.ukHere at Dare Valley Country Park we can offer you andyour family a choice of quality hotel rooms or top classcamping and caravanning pitches.With easy access to a facilities block on the caravan site,a refurbished café offering a variety of local produce,loads of walks and things to see and do, Dare ValleyCountry Park has room to accommodate everyone! Hotel AccommodationRefurbished rooms, en-suite facilities and peace andquiet, great ingredients for a relaxing stay at Dare ValleyCountry Park.

Standard Room Rate: Single £39Double/Twin £50

Three occupants (Bunks) £66Four occupants (Bunks) £83

Family Room (Double Bed, Bunk & Cot) £72

Llangybi nr Usk Bed & Breakfast

The White Hart Village InnLlangybiT. 01633 450 258www.whitehartvillageinn.comEmail: [email protected] 4 star graded accommodation is comprised of twocharacterful rooms, located on the first floor of The WhiteHart Village Inn, within the Victorian extension originallybuilt as Stables. The Main Bedroom has a Double-Bed anden-suite with new bathroom suite comprising shower,sink and WC. If required the adjoining Second SingleBedroom can also be made available to provide a familysuite to accommodate two adults and a child (we acceptchildren aged 12 or over) or third adult.

Facilities include- Freeview TV- Hairdryer- En suite

bathroom withshower- Complimentarytea/coffee tray

and ContinentalBreakfast- Alarm clock

- ComplimentaryWi-Fi internetaccess



Dare Valley Country Park near Aberdare offers a full list of familyevents, guided walks, talks and fun days all through the year. Just bring suitable outdoor and walking gear with you and enjoy your visit!

V Visit our new interactive visitor centre V Walk our network of countryside walks and trailsV Experience our birds, countryside and spectacular viewsV Stay on our new camping and caravan siteV Spend a relaxed night after a long walk in our refurbished hotelV Relax in the Country Park Café, 'y Cwtch', selling topquality local produceV Or why not base yourself at the country park to visitthe South Wales Valleys and the Brecon Beacons? Or even to visit Cardiff, the capital of WalesV Events throughout the year

Dare Valley Country Park, Aberdare, Rhondda Cynon Taf, CF44 7RGFor further information just call

01685 874672or visit www.darevalleycountrypark.co.uk

(Use CF44 7PT or CF44 7PS for SAT NAV's)

Fresh food served dailyMonday to Friday.

Come and try our stunningCarvery

Every Sunday for only £5.95

Activities include:Coracle MakingJoin our Coracle making expertand create your own mode ofwater transport. You will beable to try it out too on the lakeonce your creation is complete!

ArcheryTry your hand at archery and letour trained staff point yourarrow in the right direction.Archery lessons available for

adults and children.CyclingTake in the sights and sounds ofthe Valley on one of our cycletours. You will be kitted outwith your own personallyadjusted bike and safety gearand led by an experiencedcyclist through some of theareas most fascinatingcountryside.Please ring for more details andprices.

Visit Dare Valley Country Park and enjoy 500 acres of countryside,walks, trails and family fun all within a mile of Aberdare.

Enjoy an activity break with an overnight stay atDare Valley Country Park in the South Wales Valleys.

Sunday 22nd AugustButterflies and Moths Help us learn more aboutbutterflies and moths and seewhat varieties we can find inthe park.

Sunday 26th SeptemberTreesJoin the team for a morningof outdoor fun activities;learn all about trees and theiruses.

Family Discovery DaysJoin our Environmental Education team and discover all about

Nature and Dare Valley Country Park10.30am – 12.30pm - Free events, advance booking is essential.

Children must be accompanied.

Events1st – 3rd July Shakespeare in the Courtyard Showcase Sioe Gerdd PerformingArts (in association with E3+)perform their production of Romeoand Juliet. For tickets call Peter on079044308407pm – 10pm. Tickets £6, SchoolParties £4

Sunday 11th July Global Day Join us in the global village anddiscover dance, food, music andchildren's activities from around theworld.10am – 4pm Free event

Saturday 31st JulyGary the Clown Science based workshops based on‘Natural things’, bringing fun for allthe family. 11am – 3pm

Evening Courtyard Concerts 8pmFriday 23rd July, High Voltage!For those about to Rock to one of thebest AC/DC cover bands around – wesalute you!

Saturday 24th July, The WarthogsFormed in 2007 featuring exmembers of various Cynon Valleybands from the last ten years, Playingclassic Rock, Punk, Folk and acoustic.

Art ExhibitionsAlwyn Isaac

17th July – 8thAugust

Ceri Isaac (pen/ink & mixed

media)14th Aug – 5th Sept

2010

Cerys MorganGumm

11th Sept – 3rd Oct2010


Ray ChenRomantic PromThursday 22 July, 7.30pm

Only Men AloudStage & Screen PromWednesday 21 July, 7.30pm

Alison BalsomLast Night of the PromsSaturday 24 July, 7.00pm

11-24 July / Gorffennaf

Big Issue Full Page Ad - Proms 2010:Layout 1 24/05/2010 10:02 Page 1

Living Wales Magazine July

Documents

Transcript of Living Wales Magazine July