Category: News

Fair Trade In Wenvoe

 

Regular stalls:

 In St Mary’s Church hall following the All Age Service when coffee is served usually at 10 30am.

 In the Chattery; every second Thursday of each month from 10 30 until midday.

 

Additional stalls

 At the Scarecrow Festival on Saturday 23rd September from 2 till 5pm and Sunday from 10 30 – 11 am when the Christmas range will be launched.

 A stall in the Church Hall following the Remembrance Service on November 12th

 At Home with Jude and Nige; Friday 17th November – Open House at 5 Church Rise with refreshments and goods to sell or to order from 2 30 until 9pm.

 

For more information see the Traidcraft website on www.TraidcraftShop.co.uk/fairtrade or give me a call for information or a catalogue on 02920594708.

Jude Billingham

 

 

 

 

What’s In The Headlines?

 

What’s In The Headlines?

For as long as I can remember, I always wanted to be like my brother. He is not older than me – in fact, he is a minute younger than I am. But because of his writing talent, and due to his impeccably hardworking nature, it always seemed as though he could do no wrong. His praise was (obviously, correctly) sung all over for his immense talent for creative writing. A talent it didn’t seem had also been passed on to his female counterpart. I tried my best, and yet it was ever more apparent every time I tried that I could not express such beauty and imagery through my words in quite the way he could always, and continues to be able to do. I thought I’d better move on to a different hobby and leave the writing to him – I tried everything; I was never exceptional at anything in the same way he was at conveying emotion through a story. That is, until I reached my final year of primary school and it seemed a door had opened to finally give me such opportunities as his natural talent had given my brother.

When you’re eleven, a shy child who doesn’t think they know enough about the world to question a teacher on such matters, you generally go unnoticed. Which – if you were anything like I was – was a great thing. I would get on with my dodgy story writing and hope I wasn’t laughed at for my ludicrous attempts at an enjoyable story.

I don’t remember how it came about, or how it was me who was chosen, but one day I was summoned into my teacher’s class, amongst a crowd of about seven others, and pitched an idea about the school newspaper. I hadn’t done much factual work, but what I can remember, this idea appealed to me. But then the strangest thing happened. I was recognised for once. For – believe it or not – my writing abilities, and was asked to be the sole Editor of the newspaper. Sgoop only ran for one edition, but it gave me a version of writing I somehow succeeded at. And by the time I’d made it to secondary school (after that same teacher had told my brother and I he wanted to be reading my brother’s tenth novel in front of the fire, with me reading the news on the television in the background) I had no idea for the first three years that eventually I’d be doing something like writing for the What’s On? and writing my first Welsh language article for Hacio.

Around Easter of 2016, I had launched my own blog. I read about Tavi Gevinson and the way she took the plunge and just wrote about anything and everything – it inspired me to do the same. I had gotten from being this shy girl who would never want to challenge the rules, to a (still quiet) girl who’d read enough to know she had an opinion. My blog was my first step to being where I am now.

As soon as I’d made my decision on my future career plan, it was go time. Once I’d finished my exams and I’d gone back to school, I was starting to work on a new project. Another school newspaper. But one that I this time, had so much more pride in. Because – although I had to make up an IT design (never really a strong point) – it was solely mine. Our next edition comes out at the end of term. If I didn’t think I would want this, I wouldn’t have put myself out to ask Hacio if they’d consider my work; I’ve never had enough self-confidence, and when I sent my article for the Welsh S4C-owned website, I had no hope that it would ever be published. Yet my first email back from the correspondent I’d been speaking to (after a few days, which felt like weeks, I might add) said that he’d liked the article and already uploaded it. A shock and a half for the person who continues to miss the mark on story-writing.

Journalism is a field which is probably stereotyped as being filled with cocky know-it-alls, and to be honest, I hope I don’t fit that mould. But I think it’s also about being different and having a talent for writing, and enjoying what you write. I’m not sure if you would call what I have talent, but I’m willing to work until it is.

I think I’ll probably always envy my brother. His work still continues to blow just about everyone away. But I think now, I have my own writing style. One which won’t be stepping on his toes (though, as he’s practically a genius at writing by this point, it might just be the one toe) and one which helps to define us even more defiantly as individuals.

I love my brother’s work. But I have stories of my own to write. And this time, I hope I’ve not missed the mark.

By Tirion Davies

 

 

 

July News around the Parish

 

 

The highlight of the month, must be the arrival of our new Bishop of Llandaff who was enthroned in the Cathedral on the morning of July 22nd, where a large congregation from all over the Diocese had gathered, including many from the Diocese of Salisbury, where Bishop June had been Dean for over 13 years. In the Diocesan Magazine “Croeso” Bishop June writes of her joy about becoming the Bishop of Llandaff and she is described as being “a leader with clear vision, a pastoral heart, and a strategic mind” She also writes “The prospect of living in South Wales is just terrific because I am already rooted through my family in this part of the world. And it won’t take me long to fall in love with the diocese of Llandaff” We look forward to a time when we will be able to welcome her to Wenvoe.

The Parochial Church Council met during the month, where it was reported that a site meeting of interested parties from the diocese, the local authority and CADW had taken place to view the planned extension to the church. Their report back, raised a number of issues which have been referred back to our architect for comment and further discussion. Other reports to the council meeting included the final result of the recent Christian AID collection in the combined parishes of Wenvoe, Sully and St. Lythan’s. The excellent result the Wenvoe 200 club is making towards the repair and upkeep of the church building. FAIR TRADE AND TRADECRAFT sales continue with the majority of sales in the church coming from the Chattery. Concern was expressed of the threat to the Fair Trade “kite mark” being challenged by some of the major food stores. This not only weakens the Fair Trade message, but also weakens the good practice with third world partners in ensuring continued development. The Social Committee reported that while they had had a few quiet weeks the Chattery continues to meet monthly, in an enjoyable social and friendly get together, and that the planning of the September “Scarecrow Festival” is well in hand.

Members of the church congregation took part in the recent “Village Clean Up”, despite the wet conditions on the day. Litter seems to find its way in to the most obscure corners of the village verges etc. and these events are well worth while in bringing the community together in a common cause.

On the same day, in the same wet conditions, the “Great Outdoors” session of Messy Church took place in the school grounds. Reports back suggest that the rain made very little difference as some of the activities involved lots of water and that a change of clothing was essential. A big THANKYOU to all who arranged the afternoon’s programme and to those Mums. Dads and children who turned up. The next session will be on October 21st ..look out for details nearer the time.

The joint Parish Magazine “Connections”, which is available in church on the 1st Sunday of the Month priced at 50p, is being made available to the congregation in St Mary’s, from the September issue for £5.00 for the year. Names and money in an envelope please. This will give a better indication of the number of magazines we need allowing some extra copies for casual purchase.

Forthcoming events are the “Scarecrow Festival” and the “Harvest Festival” both on the weekend of the 23/24th September. See you there.

Greeting to all our readers, a warm welcome awaits you in St. Mary’s.

Parry Edwards

 

 

 

 

June Meeting Report

 

 

 

Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinators met on June 29 and items from the discussions included:

We have continued our efforts to encourage Residents of The Grange estate to become active in the Watch. In March letters about Neighbourhood Watch were delivered to the occupied homes in the estate and personal contact has been made where possible. These have resulted in 5 responses from residents, all of whom are concerned about safety in the estate but so far, no co-ordinators have come forward. We propose to contact the final homes when occupied and are prepared to contribute if any wider initiative occurs.

We are disappointed that the PCSO nominated for Wenvoe has changed so often recently and is rarely seen in the village. This appears to be a problem in other parts of the Vale and is not confined to us.

In conjunction with St John’s Ambulance, a scheme has been introduced in other parts of the country to train residents to become voluntary “First Responders” who could give simple first aid in an emergency until the ambulance service arrives. The Vale Neighbourhood Watch Committee intend introducing a similar system in the Vale and we wish to contribute. Training would be offered to Watch Co-ordinators.

Unsolicited fliers from rogue traders are being pushed through letterboxes in the Vale and they are usually put out for recycling immediately. However, an incident has occurred in the Vale where an elderly person replied to such a flier and eventually lost a large sum of money. The Vale are collecting evidence to enable prosecutions to be made. If Wenvoe Residents receive this type of flier would they please keep it and inform their Watch Co-ordinator who will pass it on to the Vale.

Concern was expressed about the safety of Residents using the Cardiff to Barry bus stop at the Beefeater (formerly the Walston Castle) roundabout. It is extremely difficult to safely cross the road to and from the bus stop. We were told that the Community Council had raised the matter with the Vale and action was expected.

Alan French

 

 

 

New Welsh Course

 

LEARNING WELSH IN WENVOE

Do you speak a little Welsh? Perhaps you did Welsh at school or started to learn as an adult? If so……

Good News – a Foundation course will be starting in Wenvoe in September! This course is suitable for adults with a basic understanding of Welsh or those who have completed the WJEC Mynediad/ Beginners course.

We will start with some revision: Talking about yourself – giving personal details such as name, home, phone number, age, family, interests, holidays, work and possessions. We will go on to cover: the past, time, people & places, problems, and complaining (!). You will learn how to express opinions + preferences, discuss the news, and ask a favour.

The classes focus on vocabulary which is useful in everyday life, and there is usually a lot of laughter!

We will follow the WJEC course book: Cwrs Sylfaen, Fersiwn y De (South Wales version) by Mark Stonelake and Emyr Davies, ISBN 978-1- 86085-518-4.

Classes are held on Tuesdays, 1-3pm at the Wenvoe Community Centre. The course runs for 30 weeks and starts on 19th September. Please contact Learn Welsh for further details, including term dates, prices -including concessions, how to enrol, or if you are unsure if this is the correct level for you:

Tel: 01446 730402 Email: learnwelsh@valeofglam-organ.gov.uk Web: www.learnwelsh.cymru

Barbara Harris

Welsh Tutor & ex Wenvoe resident

 

 

WENVOE VILLAGE SHOW SATURDAY 9th SEPTEMBER

 

WENVOE VILLAGE SHOW SATURDAY 9th SEPTEMBER

There are categories to suit suit everyone, young and old. Why not take part. Don’t hide your talents, have a go. Remember this is our own local competition – compete with your neighbour.

Entries are limited to residents of the Wenvoe Community (Wenvoe, Parc y Gwenfo, Twyn-y-Odyn, St Lythans, Dyffryn) and children who attend the village school. Anyone who has regular connections with a village organisation but resides outside the community boundary and would like to submit an entry should contact the organisers. Contact via wenvoescoutgroup @googlemail.com or any of the section leaders.

The maximum number of entries per person in any one category are two. Previously entered items are acceptable if they failed to win a prize previously.

 

Full details will be published in the September ‘What’s On’

 

Fruit & Vegetable – best examples of,

1. Apples – 3 cookers

2. Apples – 3 eaters,

3. Tomatoes (standard size)- 3 same type

4. Tomatoes (cherry) – 3 same type

5. Other fruit – minimum of 5

6. Beetroot – three

7. Carrots – three

8. Onions – three

9. Potatoes – three

10. Runner bean – three

11. Shallots – three

12. Chillies – three

13. Any other vegetable – One (unless smaller than a medium sized onion then 3 items should be submitted for judging)

Vegetables – whoppers

14. Runner bean – longest

15. Cucumber – longest

16. Marrow – biggest

17. Onion – largest

18 Potato – largest

19. Misshapen vegetable .

Culinary

20. 6 cheese scones

21. 6 welsh cakes

22. 6 short bread fingers

23. Victoria jam sponge

24. 6 butterfly cakes

25. Lemon drizzle cake slices

26. Small fruit cake slices

27. Quiche Loraine

27. Bread (Handmade)

28. Bread (Machine made)

29. Men Only – 6 savoury curry biscuits

30. Fruit Jam – sweet

31. Fruit jam – bitter

32. Jelly Preserve

33. Marmalade

34. Chutney (any type)

35. Eggs (home produced) – 3 matched

36. Homemade drink. Soft or alcoholic

Craft

37. Tied bunch of flowers from your garden

38. Best house plant

39. Handwriting (adult) – 40. Needlepoint/cross-stitch etc

41. Knitted or cross stitch item

42. Painting/Drawing

43. A wooden craft item.

44 Any other craft item.

Photography – unmounted 7” x 5” or less

45. Small creature

46. Reflection

47. National Park landscape

48. Single person

49. Cardiff

50. Red

Children’s Section – all items MUST be produced by the child

51. Home baked – 4 chocolate chip cookies.

52. Home baked – 4 mini rock cakes.

53. Drawing or painting of a family member.

54. Handwriting – junior – ‘The quick brown fox jumped over the lazy dog’ and seniors the same as juniors plus ‘Six javelins thrown by the quick savages whizzed forty paces beyond the mark.’

55. Craft – junk model.

56. Photograph – "My best picture taken in the last year".

57. Pre-school child – Piece of art or craft.

Limerick

58. The limerick – first line must be:- ‘In Wenvoe ……..

 

 

Superman Got Nothing On Me

 

I recently saw Wonder Woman and in all honesty, these are the films we as women deserve. The notion that both genders were equally represented as being capable of looking after themselves, yet also being aware of their right to ask for help was inspiring; often feminism may seem like the belief that women ought to not ask for help lest they look weak, but this film expressed both genders’ right to ask for assistance when needed.

I love how they were unafraid of giving Diana (Prince – Wonder Woman’s given name primarily on Earth) a romance; it seemed so real and because of their care for each other, a relationship which didn’t feel forced, which is often the case. There weren’t moments of ‘I don’t believe you’re strong enough’ from Steve Trevor, but rather ‘what do you need me to hold whilst you hit this man in the face’, which was an interesting and different dynamic to what we’re used to with the unsuccessful female-led superhero films of the past.

True to its setting, the fact that Wonder Woman is a woman played a major role – set in the height of the First World War, before the Representation of the People Act (which allowed women over the age of 21 the vote), it wasn’t an embarrassment to be saved by this woman – but rather an appreciation by all in the film that women of the time were in need of far more rights.

Director Patty Jenkins used the theme of love in the film’s climax as a driving force, and for once, the portrayal of her realisation got to me. Because it was unlike the usual forced-love-being-the-driving-force plotlines in these kinds of films – Patty Jenkins’ beautiful cinematography and Gal Gadot’s (Wonder Woman) stunning acting made sense for this to be part of the plot.

Of course there was the occasional derogatory comment, but it was great to see these comments such down for being derogatory in relation to the more-common-than-not ‘lads will be lads’ laughing attitude. And will all due respect – Gal Gadot truly is stunning; yet isn’t that another argument I’ve seen? Why is Wonder Woman so gorgeous – can’t she just look ‘normal’? I would argue that although this film is a giant leap for women, it’s unusual to see a ‘normal-looking’ woman in any role in a Hollywood film which doesn’t include them being the geek-turned-chic. A clear sign of change, yet an acknowledgement that change is still yet to come.

I don’t believe I’ve ever seen anyone mention the character of Chief in such articles about the film, a Native American who helps Diana Prince, Steve Trevor and two others on their mission. He tells Diana Prince something about Steve Trevor along the lines of “the Germans took their land” whilst also mentioning “his people took mine” – a clear acknowledgement of an otherwise overlooked American past – the character of Chief being played

by actor Eugene Brave Rock, of Native American roots, I might add.

And what about Gal Gadot herself, the Israeli actress picked to play Princess of Themyscira – she mentions that between her winning audition for Wonder Woman and earning the role, she had only made films in Israel or those where she was unknown, prior to winning ‘Miss Israel’ and taking part in ‘Miss Universe’ as a teenager in the early 2000s. A ‘gamble’ some might state; one which most definitely paid off, however.

The same has been said about Director Patty Jenkins; that it was a ‘risk which paid off’ casting a female director to head Wonder Woman, with the expectation clearly being that a relatively unknown female director cannot make a film about a woman, for women successfully. This however being the same director who helped Charlize Theron to win her Academy Award for Best Leading Actress on Jenkins’ own debut film. In actual fact, far more ‘risks’ ought to be taken on female directors. Wonder Woman was incredibly shot cinematically, as well as its well adaptable themes. Next time, Hollywood – pull in the big guns. Give Patty Jenkins a call.

Wonder Woman truly is ground-breaking. The first successful female-led superhero film, which made $103,251,471 in the US alone on its opening weekend, and to also be interactive with today’s problems. I understand this post sounds like a review – and to some extent, it is. Because I think it’s important I document my beliefs of this film because this is a once in a lifetime kind of film. Hopefully, it’s only up from here.

Even so, Wonder Woman earns a solid 10/10 from me. We’ve glimpsed into the future with this film (figuratively, it is set within the Great War) – and it’s beautiful.

June News Update

 

The fine spell of weather in June, has enabled our stone mason, Mike, to carry out the remedial work on the capping of the boundary walls along the southern edge of the churchyard. This means that all the work required to be carried out from the last quinquenial inspection is now complete.

An application for a faculty from the diocesan authorities for the removal of the concrete channelling along the base of the south wall of the nave and the chancel, and a French drain to be dug to take water and moisture out of the walls is being prepared and a notice to that effect has been displayed on the south door of the church. Part of this work will mean that the “soak away” will be sited under the main path to the church, where there should be no disturbance to any burials, and will mean that access to the church will be affected, but only for a short time.

The main event of last month was the organising of the annual Christian Aid Appeal with house to house collections in the three parishes, and other fund raising events such as the Lenten Lunches and the Agape Supper in the church Hall during the season of Lent. Thanks must go all who were involved in making this year such a success and to those who have so generously given donations. The final sum came to £2,960.85, which is a fantastic amount to raise. Well done to all.

There is news to report from our village school… they are preparing for their School Inspection commencing on June 26th.. and also they have asked for help in a project they have started with the Gwenfo Primary School Peace Garden. A new peace garden is under development in the school grounds. This will be a place where pupils can sit quietly to reflect, pray or talk quietly with their friends. The hard landscaping is complete and has been paid for by PTA funds. Now the borders need planting. If you are able to donate a cutting, or divide a perennial and donate part to the school they would be very grateful. This has already been announced in church and donations of plant material from interested parties would be most welcome. The school will be happy to receive plants etc.

The next United Service for the Three Parishes will be at St Bleiddian’s Church, St Lythan’s on Sunday July 30th at 10.30am. this will be followed by a Pilgrimage Walk to Llandaff Cathedral with co-ordinated and timed stops along the way for people to join the walk where they wish to and there will also be a place where we will stop for a picnic lunch in Trelai Park. The walk will end with Cathedral evensong and there will be lifts back to St.Lythans/ Wenvoe. Full details are in the “Connections” three parishes magazine or on St. Mary’s church notice board in the south porch.

The next Film Night at the Rectory will be at 7.30pm on Friday 7th July when the film “Moana” will be screened. Names please on the list in church if you wish to attend.

The next “Messy Church” event will be on Saturday 15th July at 3.30 – 5.30 pm in the school grounds, where a programme celebrating the Great Outdoors with games and activities, worship and food outside. All people of all ages are most welcome and the event is FREE.

Celebrating a 3rd anniversary… Yes Jon has been here three years. How quickly the time seems to have gone by. In these three years there have been a number of changes, both in services, times of services, a combined parish magazine, and an awareness that each of our parishes are not on their own but part of a larger group, now called a Ministry Area. This is the policy of Llandaff diocese and the Church in Wales, to group parishes together, in sharing the work God has called us to do with one another. During this month we shall be welcoming our new Bishop in Llandaff, the Very Rev, June Osbourne, now Dean of Salisbury in the Church of England. Following the confirmation of her appointment, Dean June will be consecrated as Bishop at Brecon on July 15th and enthroned at Llandaff Cathedral on 22 July.

Greetings to all our readers

Parry Edwards

 

 

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