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April Report

 

Our Easter celebrations began with a memorable Palm Sunday procession from the Church Hall, complete with music from pipe and drum and singing “Make way, make way for Christ the King”. This was our way of re-enacting Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem, where he was greeted with palms and garments strewed on the ground. The only thing missing was the “ass the foal of an ass”..so maybe next year – who knows. (Jon take note). With our palm crosses blessed and held high we began that journey into Holy Week with special services, the Agape Supper, the Good Friday services where at the children’s service in the morning they decorated a bare wooden cross with daffodils in bud which had opened by Easter day itself. As in previous years the church was beautifully decorated with flowers and Easter lilies donated by members of the congregation in memory of loved ones, no longer with us. A special thank you to all who prepared the church for the most important service in the church’s calendar.

Another major event in the church’s year is the Annual Vestry Meeting, where the Parish Report is presented to the congregation as an account of what has taken place during the year. It is also the time when the Churchwardens and Officers of the Church and Sidespeople are appointed. This year we have had a change of wardens, Jenny Ford has stepped down and was thanked for all the work she has done in her years of office, and Carol Wyllie has been appointed as Rectors Warden, Sandra Dicks was re -elected as People’s Warden. The compilation of the Parish Report falls on many shoulders, covering all aspects of the happenings in the Church’s Year, and thanks go to Jenny for taking on this task as she prepared to hand over her work to Carol.

The main item in the report is the Incumbent’s Report, where the parish priest gives his take on the events during the past year. Thanks were given for all the willing help Jon has received during the year and he in turn thanked many people for their support and willingness in preparing the church for the wide range of services we now have week by week. Jon then read his report to the 9.30am Eucharist congregation on the 3rd Sunday of Easter when the Commissioning of Churchwardens, the PCC, Officers of the Church and Sidespeople took place.

The Building Committee recently met with our newly appointed Architect, Richard, with a site meeting to discuss the proposed drainage scheme in the churchyard along the South wall of the Nave, and East wall where there are two table tombs dating from the 18th century were considered to be in the way of adequately draining the proposed “French drains” into the “soakaways”. After much discussion and exchange of views, and an inspection of the internal wall adjacent to the Altar, it was decided not to proceed with an additional faculty as walls appear to be dry. There was a collective sigh of relief as this would have put a strain of our available building funds, and the enormous amount of permissions needed to move gravestones and even exhumations.

The churchyard is looking at its best, despite all the snow and cold winds, we experienced during March, this is due to the work Mike Tucker has put in since he started work in January. During a recent visit from our Archdeacon, she was not very happy with all the lovely daffodils planted in the graves, as in her opinion, they are not suitable according to churchyard regulations. Long may they remain there I say.

The PCC has had a response from Wenvoe Community Council to the ongoing saga of the sycamore tree, near to our churchyard boundary wall and have offered to lop some of the overhanging branches, this will be up for discussion and response at the next PCC meeting in May.

Lent Lunches and Agape Supper – An item in the in church weekly newsletter in April is worth sharing with our wider number of readers….. “Grateful thanks to everyone who contributed to making this year’s Lent Lunches and Agape Supper a success. To all who worked hard setting out the hall, making and serving delicious homemade soups, then of course washing up. Also thanks to everyone who supported the lunches and gave a total generous donation of £396.95 to Christian Aid.”

A timely reminder… the annual Christian Aid Appeal will be launched with a “Big Breakfast” on Saturday 12th May in the Community Centre. The following week will see the house to house collections. Please give generously to this appeal, so many people far worse off than we are really depend on the support they are given from your giving.

Thank you for taking time to read this.

Parry Edwards

 

 

Birds Don’t See Windows

A recent BBC item highlighted the problem of birds crashing into windows mistaking them for openings or seeing a tree reflection with tragic consequences. The city of Toronto in Canada sits on a major migratory bird route and every year is witness to huge numbers of bird deaths due to this phenomenon. They have now changed their building rules so that new constructions must incorporate bird friendly initiatives such as recessed windows to prevent reflection and smaller glass panes rather than buildings shrouded in vast glass panels. The article demonstrates a significant reduction in bird strikes and deaths indeed in one building alone down by a massive 90%.
Here in Wenvoe many residents love to feed garden birds with large numbers of feeders and bird tables across the village. As we now approach spring the birds are becoming more active in courtship and nesting so using more energy than normal. These feeders create a dichotomy as birds become dependent on them and less territorial in nature. That means birds often congregate in smaller areas given the ready supply of food. Territorial competition is part of nature and as birdsong is wonderful to us humans it's actually a robust warning message to other birds to stay away and go elsewhere.
This congregation of many different breeds of birds at garden feeders creates excitement and competition amongst our feathered friends often resulting in fights and disputes which creates confusion and disorientation. All too often birds in their haste mistake dark windows as open gaps or see reflection of sky or trees resulting in impact. Smaller birds weighing only a few grams can survive these collisions but bigger birds like wood pigeons and crows or fast flying birds like green woodpecker are often killed by breaking their necks or at the very least badly stunned.
This is easily preventable. The RSPB recommends breaking up the dark window (not literally!!) by closing curtains to prevent reflection; putting plants on the windowsills as a visual deterrent or by adhering stickers to windows to show there's an obstruction. There are varied and lovely stickers available on the RSPB website and other outlets which are not too expensive and a great way to support these beautiful little gifts from nature. See  http://shopping.rspb.org.uk/bird-window-stickers.html

 

 

 

Have A Merry Christmas

 

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

 

Christmas will be different this year. It seems everything this year has challenged us with means we deserve a new future, a new year to cap off the disastrous 2017. But with it comes a desire for a better 2018, one with less tragedy and less worry, one I’m highly doubtful we’ll be graced with. As you attempt to track through the awful past year, too many tragedies appear; but thankfully, some good has come out of this year, too. Perhaps the definition of 2017 is Time magazine’s Person of the Year being the men and women who stood up against their abusers this year, an ongoing battle I wish to see more of; but with Donald Trump taking second place. A year of wins, sprinkled with losses, too.

As we review this year, we need to take note of the good things. All too often do we dwell on the bad – remember the solidarity of women standing together at the Women’s Marches, and the world banding together in light of the numerous terror attacks, to prove we will not our futures be defined by the ugliness of these attacks. When you think of this year – although it’s so hard – try not to think about the ludicrous fact that Donald Trump (practically a five year old) is running America; daydream about his impeachment and Bernie Sanders storming in with a new Congress to pass the bills for free healthcare and re-instating Planned Parenthood. When you think of the Harvey Weinstein cases, don’t waste time on him and his supporters, educate yourself on the victims who finally allowed themselves a voice.

Following 2016 murderous rampage practically of celebrity after celebrity dying, we were graced with 2017’s own tragedies of sexual abusers. As one user on Tumblr aptly put it – last year you worried if your favourite celebrity was trending in case they were dead, this year you’re worried they are an abuser. Which then is worse?

Take the time this year to think about your successes this year. This year I passed my first year of A Levels without too much hassle; have applied to Universities and gained offers; have passed my final LAMDA examination; have (finally) passed my theory test; have gained multiple opportunities to expand my future, and have further gained stronger friendships. I’m grateful that I’m sure there’s more I could say about this year, and am more than grateful that I don’t know what I want for Christmas. Maybe the one thing I want for Christmas is impossible to have – an even better 2018.

When I sit watching the Christmas specials flood my screen at Christmas, and enjoy the feeling of having my family around me, I’ll realise I’m grateful for this year.

Because despite how awful it appears to have been on the outside, it’s allowed me to expand my horizons, and realise that my future is quickly shaping to be better than I’d hoped. For Christmas this year, I just hope that everyone else feels that they can call themselves stronger for having overcome a Millennial’s Year from Hell.

 

By Tirion Davies

July Planning Updates

Planning updates

The following applications have been approved

• 9 Tarrws Close, – First floor extension over existing kitchen.

• 9 Grange Close, Wenvoe Non-Material Amendment – Window alteration to the rear elevation. Discharge of conditions 8. 10 and 13 in relation to planning application 2015/00089/FUL

• Land South of Wenvoe and East of Port Road, Wenvoe Variation of Condition 1 of permission to allow a further period of two years for the implementation of the access and internal site works. The intension is to use the land as allotments.

• Woodview, Garn Farm, Wenvoe Variation of existing agricultural occupancy condition. There are still restrictions imposed on the occupancy of the property.

• Dyffryn Springs, St Lythans Road, Dyffryn Construction of a building to serve as a wedding venue to replace the present marquee.

• Brooklands Retail Park, Brooklands Terrace, Culverhouse Cross, Cardiff Reduce 3 Poplars and remove a single Poplar with TPO protection.

 

The latest drawings received on the proposed Community Centre extension incorporating replacement storage accommodation for the present users was not acceptable and a stand-alone structure will be considered. The Council has also been in discussion with the Vale about improvements to the play equipment to the parks in the community using available 106 monies. Improvements to the present muddy Station Road playing field parking area will also be considered.

Following complaints about the Port Road crossing area by the Walston Castle favoured cyclists and bus users either had to detour to use it or cross via an inadequate island a site visit was held. Although agreed the bus stops would have to remain in their present locations possible improvements will be examined. The restricted road width and problems caused by large vehicles turning into Nant Isaf will be examined at the same time.

The meeting received a welcome visit by the police. The latest crime figures were reported which included thefts from the Walston Castle and the golf club. The police reminded members of the 101 phone number to report any non-urgent matter. The police force across the Vale is looking at the problems associated with school parking and are considering permitting PCSOs to issue parking tickets in future.

Traffic survey measurements are being made on roads around the village to obtain meaningful data measurements are not usually conducted during school holiday periods due to the change in the pattern of vehicle movements.

Following discussions with St Mary’s Church representatives earlier this year concerning the future of the church hall the Council has now received communication from the Church of Wales Property Services with their proposed valuation of the structure. The Council will consider the matter after future investigation.

Upcoming Walks August

 

Thurs 3rd Aug:- Vale. Circular walk based around Porthkerry, approx. 5 miles. Bert

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Sat 5th Aug:- To be advised. V’Iain

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Sat 12th Aug:- Talgarth and the Witches Pool. 8 miles. Ian (OL12)

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Sat 19th Aug:- A walk near Dinglestow. 7.5 miles Mike (OL14)

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Sat 26th Aug:- North of Ystradfellte. Fan nedd and Ffan Llia. Around 6½ miles. Ian (OL12)

This is not a formal club, but only an opportunity to walk in company: but you come at your own risk.

 

 

 

Storytime at Wenvoe Community Library

 

 

Our first Storytime is on Wednesday July 5th
Wenvoe Playgroup will be joining us in the morning for Stories with Sandra and in the afternoon for More Stories with Sylvia.
This is our start, we will be extending our Storytimes to Wenvoe School and organising Summer Storytimes for 2 -5 year olds. Weather permitting we hope to utilise the grassy area at the back of the library.
We are negotiating with a group who offer Welsh Storytime, hopefully we will have some positive news soon about this.
So its all systems go on Storytime – if anyone loves reading stories pop into the library and let us know. We would love you to join us.

 

 

Library Opening Times

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Wenvoe Community Library

Opening Times

MONDAY                   3.00 pm – 6.00pm

TUESDAY                 10.00am –  1.00pm

WEDNESDAY          10.00am –  12.00am  —-       2.00pm –  4.00pm

SATURDAY              9.00am – 1.00pm

 

 

 

Rich Dark Chocolate and Ginger Slice

 

Rich Dark Chocolate and Ginger Slice

175g ginger biscuits 100g butter 500ml single cream

4tbsp caster sugar

Whiz the biscuits in a food processor to fine crumbs. Melt half the butter and stir in the biscuit crumbs. Press into a deep 20cm spring rim tin. Chill in the fridge for 10 – 15 mins until hard. Heat the cream in a small saucepan until almost boiling. Remove from the heat and stir in the sugar and chocolate. Beat in the remaining butter and ginger. Pour into the tin and chill for about 2 – 3- hours. Remove the rim. To slice, dip a knife in hot water before making each slice. Serve with whipped double cream and fresh raspberries. Add a sprig of mint for decoration.

 

 

 

 

March Letters to the Editor

 

(The Editors are not responsible for opinions expressed, although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information. The editors reserve the right to protect the anonymity of anyone who wishes to contribute articles or letters for the magazine provided they are aware of the identity of any such person. )

 

pen-purple

 

I would like to thank Mike Tucker for taking over the gardening spot in What’s On. It’s good to have a fresh approach and his first column in the March edition was most enjoyable and informative. I look forward to his future articles.

Good wishes,

              Trevor

 

 

quill-purple

 

pen-purple

 

I would like to thank everyone who sponsored my walk for Hospice Care. Your generosity is much appreciated. I was able to give the charity £165 00

Thank you all.

          Ian Ellis

 

 

 

 

quill-purple

 

 

 

pen-purple

EU Regulations on the Sale of CABBAGES

 

The entry on page 5 in the March 2017 edition of ‘Wenvoe What’s On’ is an example of how easily unsubstantiated, or erroneous, statistics can become embedded in the public domain. This very statistic was the subject of scrutiny by the excellent BBC Radio 4 programme ‘More or Less’ which analyses the validity data, particularly those that may have been used to support political arguments. Anyone who would like further specific information on this particular quotation might like to download the ‘More or Less’ podcast as the ‘statistic’ does have a very interesting history, but the short answer is that the number of words in the EU Regulation on the Sale of CABBAGES is not 26911, but ZERO, because no such EU regulation exists.

There are, of course, detailed and wide-ranging regulatory standards governing the production and sale of nearly all farm produce, and the most comprehensive are those of the product assurance schemes. Food from producers and processors who able to meet the necessary standards is eligible to carry the Red Tractor logo which provides an assurance to consumers that what they are buying conforms to the highest standards of quality and welfare. The specifications are very detailed and are subject to rigorous inspection throughout the chain from producer to retailer. However, these have little to do with the EU as they are primarily UK initiatives. They are also entirely

voluntary although most responsible producers and processors have elected to join and have invested the time (and money) necessary to meet the scheme requirements. So, look out for the logo – not only does it confirm the best quality and welfare standards, but any product that carries the Red Tractor logo will also be 100% British.

Robert Reader

Burdons Farm Wenvoe

 

 

quill-purple

 

 

 

 

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