Category: Community Groups

On Chapel Sands by Laura Cumming

OFF THE SHELF

This month’s book was On Chapel Sands by Laura Cumming.

In 1929, Betty, the author’s mother then aged three, was kidnapped from a beach in Chapel St Leonard. Within a week or so Betty reappeared unharmed and throughout her childhood the secret surrounding her birth and subsequent adoption was kept by the village.

Laura Cummings, who has a background in art history, discusses the work of famous painters as a means to unravel her mother’s experiences. Most of us found this acutely irritating. Betty had a fascinating story to tell and for us, being taken up endless artistic cul-de-sacs detracted from, rather than enhanced Betty’s bitter narrative. On a more positive side, Cummings gave a brilliant description of Chapel St Leonard and Lincolnshire in general which delighted those in the group who were familiar with the area. We were all pleased that we had read the book but could only award it 7/10.

 

 

 

 

Pontypool

Footsteps To Pontypool

We started from the Pontypool active living centre. Soon we were walking through Pontypool park to climb up to the shell grotto (groto cregyn) and the Folly tower.

It was uphill to the grotto. As we climbed, we had good views of Pontypool behind us. The grotto itself was closed (coronavirus restrictions) but even from the outside it is an unusual building. It was built in 1794 and many improvements were made by Molly, the wife of Caple Hanbury-Leigh in about 1830. The inside is much bigger than the outside suggests. It is circular and built of rough stone with a conical stone tiled roof. The ceiling is vaulted and supported by 6 pillars decorated with stones and shells. The floor is reputed to be deer bones, but closer inspection reveals a mixture of backbones and teeth from a variety of animals. The grotto fell into disrepair at the end of the last century and was painstakingly repaired in 1996 with funds from Cadw and European aid.

This is arguably the first proper mountain spur in Wales. It is certainly a geographical fault line between the prosperous agricultural lands of Monmouthshire and the radical mineral belt of South Wales.

Continuing north along the Cambrian Way we glimpsed the Bristol Channel glistening in sunlight and the hills around us. Arriving at the Folly tower, we had an early lunch. The 230-year-old tower was rebuilt in 1994 after war time destruction. The views were brilliant in all directions: the channel sparkling in midday sun, Skirrid and Sugar Loaf shaping the horizon and Pontypool nestling in the valley. It had been showery with coats on and off throughout the morning but now the weather settled, though clouds returned briefly as we finished lunch.

The route took us towards Mamilhad via a Roman Road, it was a rough stony track leading downhill through woods and quite slippery after the rain. We were glad to reach the bottom of the road but admired the construction and longevity of the Roman Road.

At the bottom we came across a badge on a stone wall for the Brecon Beacons National Park. Now we turned onto the Brecon and Monmouthshire canal which was built between 1791 and 1812 to transport stone and lime to Newport. After decaying into stagnant disuse, it was reopened in 1970 and today is a vibrant leisure waterway. Navigable from Brecon to Pontypool and walkable for most of the rest of the route to Newport.

We followed the canal for about 3 miles and were bathed in sunshine the whole time. The Folly tower stood out on the hill above us and we passed the old 1960s British Nylon Spinners works at Mamhilad.

The flat canal enabled us to stride out and we were delighted with the local wildlife. There were lots of fish in the water – one of our group thought they were probably roach. Moorhens and ducks busied about the water and a heron, stood stock-still, in the field on the opposite bank, flying up just after we passed it. A large raptor took to the air along the canal just in front of us, reminding us that we had seen 3 buzzards at the Folly at lunchtime. Then best of all one of our group spotted a kingfisher as it flashed along the canal, the rest of us were sorry we had missed it but then we came to an area where the canal widened and there was a kingfisher perched on a metal railing – brilliant. A local told us that this is the kingfishers favourite fishing spot and he regularly sees two birds. A plant with arrow shaped leaves grew in the water, probably arrowhead.

Now we approached Pontymoile Basin, where two canals merge connecting Brecon with the coast in Newport, cause for much celebration in 1812. It was the Merthyr Tydfil ironmaster Richard Crawshay that pushed the project to completion, eager to ensure his iron reached Newport docks more competitively. We left the canal at bridge 52, Pontymoile junction, where there is a picnic area and small café. After a short walk along the main road we re-entered Pontypool park through the ornate Pontymoile gates, the original main entrance to the park. The gates are grade II listed and affectionately called the ‘Sally gates’ – Sally was the Duchess of Marlborough and legend has it that they were a present to the Hanbury family for help with the execution of her late husband’s will. Of particular interest on the pillars are the vines and bunches of grapes which originally, would have been gilded along with the acanthus leaves and finials of the gates. A short stroll took us back to the cars.

Map OS 152. Walk 7 miles.

 

 

Christopher Columbus’ Carers

Christopher Columbus’ Carers

On September 23rd 1493, Christopher Columbus embarked on his second expedition to the New World, setting sail with a fleet of 17 ships. On September 23rd 2000, members of the Carers walk, discovered one of Columbus’s ships in the Old Harbour at Barry Island! The ship was certainly a colourful sight and looked like it had survived many voyages on the seas, as can be seen in the photograph.

Our voyage around Barry Island took in both Nells and Friars Points and a stroll across the almost empty, freshly groomed golden sands. We are lucky to live in the Vale and during our local lockdown to have such a wonderful beach to walk on. Come and join us.

 

 

ChallengingTimes

WOMEN’S INSTITUTE

As we head towards the end of this very strange year our members are still staying connected through our monthly Glamorgan Federation Newsletter and the WI Life Magazine. The WI Life is the essential link to our WI family and is extra important during these uncertain, challenging times when we are unable to gather for monthly meetings or social events. Our magazine gives us a sense of “belonging”.

The latest issue saw seven members from various WIs sharing stories of finding a home in the WI – all very different stories, but all very interesting. In the same edition there was also an opportunity for members to participate in a survey. The closing date is not until 31st January 2021 so there is plenty of time still left!

As it is the month of November we have sent our usual annual donation to the British Legion, in memory of all those who gave their lives and all those who have suffered as a result of conflict.

All members will be delighted to learn that Sandra Anstee is progressing well at the Heath Hospital, following recent heart surgery in Bristol. And so we send our special wishes to Sandra, hoping that she will be home soon.

If you have a November birthday, please accept our warmest wishes. In the meantime stay safe, stay well and if you need to have a chat “It is always good to talk”.

 

 

Hippocratic Sense

Walking Is Man’s Best Medicine.

Hippocrates lived a long time ago, but he spoke a lot of sense when he said, “Walking is man’s best medicine.” All the women who met at Cosmeston for the Living with Cancer Strollers, under a bright blue sky in glorious sunshine, would definitely agree with him.

In the uncertain times of a Covid 19 pandemic and the restrictions placed on people by local lockdowns, the certainties of the benefits of a walk in beautiful countryside can be reassuring.

In the photo accompanying this article, you can see some members of the walk deep in conversation, and I promise you this wasn’t posed! It’s what the walk is all about: relaxing in good company, chatting and laughing together, feeling the warmth of the sun (or the wet rain) on our face and feeling energised and a boost in mood when the walk is over. Come and join us!

 

 

Historical Choir Photo

WENVOE LADIES CHOIR

This photograph was taken by Suzanne Cook in the late 1980s early 1990s at St. David’s Methodist Church, Barry. The choir gave a concert for church members of hymns and songs from the shows .

Left to right top row. Ann Armstrong, Jean Williams, Maureen Hunt, Barbara (?), Mary Cook, Sylvia Fussell, Mrs. Fry, Mal T Jones, Roma Greenwood, Francis Rush.

Middle row. Pat (?), Peggy Williams, Esme Watts, Shirley (?), Pam Williams, Betty Wright. (Choir Mistress)

Bottom row. Sisters Christine and Mavis, and Phyllis Crump.

Several ladies have passed on now, but we have happy memories of many events including the Christmas concert in the hall, the Spring concert and the Christmas parties (all held after Christmas as everyone was too busy before the big day). The choir made many visits to care homes and churches in the Vale of Glamorgan.

The choir is still in operation but due to the pandemic it is on hold until a later date. The photograph also brings back memories of Carol Moody and Thelma Nash who could not attend that evening. I hope I haven’t missed anyone else.

Mary Cook.

 

 

Gathering in the Gloom

Barry Island Station  First Carers Walk

A small group gathered in the gloom outside Barry Island station for the first Carers walk since lockdown in March. Before starting the walk, the new procedures, particularly with regard to maintaining a social distance of 2m, outlined in guidance from the Welsh Government were shared, and a new walker was welcomed.


The group set off towards Jackson’s Bay as storm clouds gathered and the rain started to fall heavily. Enthusiasm for the walk was not dampened, however! For one walker, it was his first social outing since the lockdown was announced. He had spent the past months shielding with his medically vulnerable wife, who had been advised, like other vulnerable people to stay indoors. Needless to say, he was unaware of the rain and welcomed the chance to chat, socialise and exercise.
Trish’s husband rang halfway through the walk to see if she wanted to be rescued from the rain! She declined the offer, and finished the walk soaked through like everyone else! As a group we decided we were too wet to sit in any cafe, who we were sure would be unlikely to welcome saturated walkers spreading water everywhere!
I can’t promise what the weather will do next month but I can promise good company, a chance to chat and a relaxing stroll…..and hopefully a coffee! Come and join us!

 

 

It’s good to talk

WOMEN’S INSTITUTE – September

Our September meeting would normally have seen us presenting a cheque to a speaker representing our chosen charity. Unfortunately this was not to be this year, due to the challenging times we are living through. Hopefully we will be hosting a charity afternoon tea in the summer of 2021 to raise funds for Assistance Dogs – this year’s chosen charity.

Assistance Dogs provide support, hope and happiness, as well as being loyal friends. Anyone who saw 12 year old Molly featured in Countryfile on Sunday, 13th September could sense the bond between her and her assistance dog, Chess. Since his arrival Molly has grown in confidence and she has become much stronger with Chess by her side.

As soon as we are given the go-ahead to resume monthly meetings members will be contacted immediately. In the meantime we remain connected via our newsletter, our WI Life Magazine and our individual thoughts.

Members will be pleased to learn that Judy Marsh is progressing well after her knee surgery at the beginning of August. Unfortunately Sandra Anstee has been in hospital for some weeks and we send our sincere get well wishes to her with our special thoughts.

Similarly, good wishes are extended to all members celebrating their birthdays in October

It is hoped that all members and their families stay safe and well, with a positive outlook. Don’t forget that if you need to chat please pick up the phone – “It’s good to talk”.

 

 

Born A Crime: by Trevor Noah.

OFF THE SHELF – September

This month’s book was ‘Born A Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood’ by Trevor Noah.

Trevor Noah is a South African comedian, television host and actor. This is the story of his childhood in Apartheid South Africa. He was born of a black mother and a white father at a time when any mixed-race relationships were illegal. For much of his early days Trevor was concealed by his family – hence the title. Even though Noah suffered poverty, abuse and identity problems, he doesn’t come over as a victim. He is a great narrator and the book is hilarious in parts and also enlightening. Each chapter begins with an explanation of some illuminating aspect of Apartheid and sets the background to his chaotic life: his living conditions, upbringing, isolation, education, the police state and of course race.

Noah’s mother is central to the book. Unconventional, strong, and extremely religious, she takes him to church three times on Sunday to Black, White and Coloured services (to cover all possibilities). She also believes in demons, hands out harsh beatings and couldn’t love him more.

A chapter that stood out highlighted Trevor’s sketchy education. As well as a traditional African name, Trevor and his friends were all given a random European name. As a teenager Trevor, then a DJ, and his dancers were invited to entertain at a middle-class Jewish family party. They didn’t understand that shouting out the main dancer’s name (Hitler) was offensive to the hosts and were mystified that they were thrown out. ‘We weren’t taught how to think about how Hitler related to the world we lived in. We weren’t being taught to think, period’.

This book will make you laugh, cry and cry laughing. 9/10.

 

 

Living With Cancer Strollers – September Walk

LIVING WITH CANCER STROLLERS – September

The wipers were rapidly moving across the windscreen as I hurried to Cosmeston for the first Living with Cancer stroll since lockdown in March. Fortunately, on arrival and for the duration of the walk the rain stopped, and the walkers enjoyed a dry stroll.

Two new walkers were welcomed to the group. They had enjoyed walking during the lockdown and now wanted to join a group and explore new areas. With most children back in school, Cosmeston was quiet and it was easy to follow Welsh Government guidelines to socially distance when around other people. The group enjoyed catching up and sharing lockdown stories.

Cosmeston is ideal for a circular walk as there are many routes through the trees and fields and around the lakes. Wildflowers, squirrels and birds are also in abundance. Many of the group do not realise we go on different routes as they are too busy chatting, and openly admit they probably would not be able to find their way to the car park if they were abandoned! Join us next month, if you want a short stroll in friendly company and you will never be abandoned!!

 

 

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