RESIDENTS are going to get a better service from Torfaen Council after the organisation ended 2005 by having its biggest change for ten years. The new look Council has slimmed down the top level of Directors to five. It means the Council can now focus its work on the key priorities which were agreed last October. Services have been grouped together to ensure they can work towards the aim of improving the life of everyone who lives and works in Torfaen. The five priorities which were agreed after listening to the views of Council- lors and 2000 residents are: ● To improve the quality and variety of housing, and reduce the level of homelessness. ● To reduce crime and antisocial behaviour and take action to help people feel safer in their neighbourhoods. ● To improve the quality of teaching and learning for young people and other students and to equip citizens of all ages with the necessary skills for employment and the regeneration of their local communities. ● To improve waste management and increase recycling, creating a cleaner and more energy efficient area. ● To improve services to vulnerable people and improve health outcomes for everyone by encouraging healthier lifestyles. Councillor Bob Wellington, Leader of Torfaen Council, said: “The Council can use its budget for anything but we obviously can’t do everything. We will always have to make difficult decisions. This new structure is straightforward and means we are focused on our key priorities. Changes have also been made to “open the Council up” and increase the involvement of local people in decision making. “I have made the Council’s Cabinet more accountable for their decisions. They now directly take questions from other Councillors at every full Council meeting. “There has been a decrease of young voter turnout at the polling stations. I want to change this and get them involved. It is essential that local people have a say in how we spend their money. It is all part of a strategy to open up the Council and make sure residents are involved in the decisions we make on their behalf.” IN THE LAST YEAR 1. Cabinet Members have updated their computer skills. 2. Students interested in politics can have a Councillor as a mentor. 3. Cabinet Members have visited schools for a question and answer session. 4. School Councils have been using the Council Chamber for meetings. 5. The Council’s Democracy team have helped schools run their school council elections using real equipment and the conventions of real elections. FIND OUT MORE Look out for the March edition of Torfaen Talks to find more about how Torfaen Council has opened up its decision making process. New Year Big Changes INSIDE Get fit in 2006 with Torfaen Total Fitness. Win a one year fitness pass to Cwmbran Stadium and Blaenavon Leisure Centre. We have got two up for grabs. Enter our competition on page three. Don’t be bored for the next 12 months. Check out the centre pages for some great places to visit in Torfaen this year. There are some familiar attractions plus some ideas for places you may never have been to before. Keep the feature for reference to make 2006 a fun year for you and your family. Make a New Year’s resolution to gain a qualification or learn something new. You can do anything from GCSE maths to sign language to web design. The variety is huge. Turn to page eight or call freephone 0800 783 7598. Broadcaster Roy Noble is appearing in a special event at Cwmbran library. He is giving a talk called ‘Backwards to the Future’ on Wednesday 22 February at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £5. Call 01633 483240 to book. January 2006 - Ionawr 2006 www.torfaen.gov.uk 01495 762200 SOUTH Torfaen residents will see a major change to the way their rubbish is collected in 2006. By next year 24,000 homes will be using the new twin-bin system. Homes will be given a new green wheelie bin for their garden waste and kitchen food scraps. They will also get a small kitchen bin to make it easier to sort kitchen waste. We will collect the green wheelie bin one week followed by the black bin the next. The black box will be collected every week. One thousand homes in Ponthir and Llanfrechfa will be the first to start the new system in March. Torfaen Council will make sure residents know about the changes by sending them a letter and information pack. This will contain tips on reducing rubbish and a calendar of bin collection dates to show which week is a green or black bin week. The green bin is for your garden waste and kitchen food scraps. This includes all cooked and uncooked food such as vegetable peelings, meat, cheese, and bread. Food can be double wrapped in newspaper to help prevent smells. The black bin is for general household rubbish that cannot be composted or put in your black box. The black box collection service will continue every week. This will take away food tins, drinks cans, empty aerosols, glass bottles and jars, plastic bottles, plastic bags, newspapers, magazines, telephone directories, catalogues and textiles. We do not collect margarine tubs, yoghurt pots, or any other plastic packaging. Changes to your bin collection Why did the world famous inventor Trevor Baylis visit Torfaen? Turn to page two to find out and read his top tips for success. The scheme will start in these areas: MARCH Ponthir and Llanfrechfa JUNE Griffithstown, Sebastopol Croesyceiliog, Llanyravon, Oakfield, Llantarnam AUGUST Pontnewydd, Greenmeadow, Thornhill, Springvale, Upper Cwmbran and part of St Dials OCTOBER Fairwater, Hollybush, Coed-Eva, Two Locks, Henllys and the rest of St Dials If you have any questions Call Torfaen on 01495 762200.
Transcript
RESIDENTS are going to get a better service from Torfaen Council after the organisation ended 2005 by having its biggest change for ten years. The new look Council has slimmed down the top level of Directors to five. It means the Council can now focus its work on the key priorities which were agreed last October. Services have been grouped together to ensure they can work towards the aim of improving the life of everyone who lives and works in Torfaen.
The five priorities which were agreed after listening to the views of Council-lors and 2000 residents are:● To improve the quality and variety of housing, and reduce the level of homelessness.● To reduce crime and antisocial behaviour and take action to help
people feel safer in their neighbourhoods.● To improve the quality of teaching and learning for young people and other students and to equip citizens of all ages with the necessary skills for employment and the regeneration of their local communities.● To improve waste management and increase recycling, creating a cleaner and more energy efficient area.● To improve services to vulnerable people and improve health outcomes for everyone by encouraging healthier lifestyles.
Councillor Bob Wellington, Leader of Torfaen Council, said: “The Council can use its budget for anything but we obviously can’t do everything. We will
always have to make difficult decisions. This new structure is straightforward and means we are focused on our key priorities. Changes have also been made to “open the Council up” and increase the involvement of local people in decision making.
“I have made the Council’s Cabinet more accountable for their decisions. They now directly take questions from other Councillors at every full Council meeting.
“There has been a decrease of young voter turnout at the polling stations. I want to change this and get them involved. It is essential that local people have a say in how we spend their money. It is all part of a strategy to open up the Council and make sure residents are involved in the decisions we make on their behalf.”
IN THE LAST YEAR1. Cabinet Members have updated their computer skills.2. Students interested in politics can have a Councillor as a mentor.3. Cabinet Members have visited schools for a question and answer session.4. School Councils have been using the Council Chamber for meetings.5. The Council’s Democracy team have helped schools run their school council elections using real equipment and the conventions of real elections.
FIND OUT MORE Look out for the March edition of Torfaen Talks to find more about how Torfaen Council has opened up its decision making process.
New Year Big Changes
INSIDEGet fit in 2006 with Torfaen Total Fitness. Win a one year fitness pass to Cwmbran Stadium and Blaenavon Leisure Centre. We have got two up for grabs. Enter our competition on page three.
Don’t be bored for the next 12 months. Check out the centre pages for some great places to visit in Torfaen this year. There are some familiar attractions plus some ideas for places you may never have been to before. Keep the feature for reference to make 2006 a fun year for you and your family.
Make a New Year’s resolution to gain a qualification or learn something new. You can do anything from GCSE maths to sign language to web design. The variety is huge. Turn to page eight or call freephone 0800 783 7598.
Broadcaster Roy Noble is appearing in a special event at Cwmbran library. He is giving a talk called ‘Backwards to the Future’ on Wednesday 22 February at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £5. Call 01633 483240 to book.
January 2006 - Ionawr 2006
www.torfaen.gov.uk 01495 762200
SOUTH Torfaen residents will see a major change to the way their rubbish is collected in 2006.
By next year 24,000 homes will be using the new twin-bin system. Homes will be given a new green wheelie bin for their garden waste and kitchen food scraps.
They will also get a small kitchen bin to make it easier to sort kitchen waste. We will collect the green wheelie bin one week followed by the black bin the next. The black box will be collected every week.
One thousand homes in Ponthir and Llanfrechfa will be the first to start the new system in March.
Torfaen Council will make sure residents know about the changes by sending them a letter and information pack. This will contain tips on reducing rubbish and a calendar of bin collection dates to show which week is a green or black bin week.
The green bin is for your garden waste and kitchen food scraps. This includes all cooked and uncooked food such as vegetable peelings, meat, cheese,
and bread. Food can be double wrapped in newspaper to help prevent smells.
The black bin is for general household rubbish that cannot be composted or put in your black box.
The black box collection service will continue every week. This will take away food tins, drinks cans, empty aerosols, glass bottles and jars, plastic bottles, plastic bags, newspapers, magazines, telephone directories, catalogues and textiles. We do not collect margarine tubs, yoghurt pots, or any other plastic packaging.
Changes to your bin collection
Why did the world famous
inventor Trevor Baylis visit Torfaen?
Turn to page two to find out and read his top tips for success.
The scheme will start in these areas:
MARCHPonthir and Llanfrechfa
JUNE Griffithstown, Sebastopol
Croesyceiliog, Llanyravon, Oakfield, Llantarnam
AUGUSTPontnewydd, Greenmeadow, Thornhill, Springvale, Upper Cwmbran and part of St Dials
OCTOBER Fairwater, Hollybush, Coed-Eva, Two Locks, Henllys and the rest of St Dials
If you have any questions Call Torfaen on 01495 762200.
Page 2 If you need us, call 01495 762200 www.torfaen.gov.uk
WORLD famous inventor Trevor Baylis has opened the £4 million Springboard Innovation Centre in Cwmbran. The Centre will provide support to businesses in their early stages to help them set up and grow successfully.
The inventor of the wind up radio and former Big Breakfast presenter was the star guest at the opening ceremony where he appealed to anyone who had dreams of starting a business to contact Torfaen Council.
The centre is unique for the area as it is staffed by experts who are available to give free advice and support to small businesses.
Councillor Bob Wellington, Leader of Torfaen Council, said: “The Springboard Innovation Centre will help continue the success of business start-ups within Torfaen. Torfaen has seen the biggest increase in the UK.
“There were 110 new businesses in the first quarter of 2004 and this rose to 180 in 2005. The key aim is to help the growth of new businesses and to act as a
focus for entrepreneurship in Torfaen.” There is also a boardroom and
meeting rooms are available, together with spacious break out areas.
The modern three storey building has over 30 units. There are shared areas on the ground floor suitable for hot desking together with a range of office units from 18m2 to 60m2. Business growth can be accommodated by moving businesses around the centre.
Tenants can buy a range of levels of support. The main facilities are: ● Lockable business workspace, decorated with furniture and fittings● Hot desks/small cubicles in the shared areas for individuals● Car parking ● Use of common space including the kitchens, informal space and toilets● Reception, call and mail handling● Free ad hoc business advice, introductions and networking● Telephone● Basic IT equipment
Springboard Innovation CentreFollow Trevor’s five top tips to
inspire your ideas
● Don’t tell everybody about your idea. Once you’ve disclosed it, it is no longer yours – it is in the public domain.● Try to determine if your idea is original. The UK Patent Office has a web site which will do searches for existing patents and registered designs. Remember, nobody pays you for a good idea, but they may pay you for a piece of paper which says you own that idea.● Nobody has all the skills needed to take a product to market. Try to find a professional and honest team of people to help you.● Be prepared for the shock of finding your idea has already been done, or that there may be something so similar on the market that it would not be worth anyone investing the large sums of money necessary to develop a new product.● Beware of any Invention Promotion company. The UK Patent Office has excellent advice and guidelines for anyone thinking of submitting their idea to one of these companies. www.patent.gov.uk
THE Economic Development team offer a wide amount of FREE helpto business including grants toassist with;● Business Start Up - Setting up & establishing commercial operations for a new business ● Business Plan - Having a professional plan written for expansion/ improvement● Marketing - External marketing techniques, activities or materials
● Capital Assets - Buy capital equipment to expand or improve production ● Information & Communications Technologies - Investment in networked computers or digital communications ● Quality Accreditation - Employing external consultants to develop & implement procedures● World Wide Web – Designing or technically developing a web site
● Security – Strengthening your premises from theft, damage or fire● Growth – Helps with the cost of moving to larger or more suitable premises Services the Council’s Economic Development team can offer include:● Business advice● Grants & funding● Marketing advice● Training development and personnel issues
● General information & statistical data● Commercial Premises● Development Opportunities ● Environmental AdviceThe Innovation Centre was built with the help of the Objective One Fund, The Welsh Assembly, Local Regenera-tion Fund and the Welsh Development Agency. It’s based in Lakeside Road, Llantarnam Park, Cwmbran. Call Geraint John - Springboard Manager on 01633 647800.
Are you thinking of starting a business?
HILLSIDE primary school is the latest school to register as a Children’s University Activity Centre.
Fifteen hundred children and young people from 12 schools, four community youth groups and 11 Torfaen play schemes are currently collecting credits for out of school activities through the Children’s University.
Schools offer a range of after school activities which now see children gaining credits which lead to either a gold, silver or bronze award and a graduation ceremony at the University of Wales, Newport.
Activities includes Fit Kids aerobics classes, reading clubs, school councils, rugby, football, netball, soccer, cricket, golf, art, craft, country dancing, gardening, computer, eco clubs, music and drama. Also included are community visits, performances, after school concerts, school fetes and community activities.
Credits are awarded by
the University of Wales, Newport and supported by the European Social Fund. Fit Kids Aerobics activities are funded by the Big Lottery fund.
For information call Janis Davis, on 01633 648047.
REDUCE the risk of having a fire in your home by getting advice and a free smoke alarm from South Wales Fire and Rescue Service.
Smoke alarms are vital to warn you about a fire in your home. A firefighter will come out and check your home for any potential fire hazards and then fit smoke alarms in the correct place.
Statistics show that you are twice as likely to die in a fire at home if you haven’t got a smoke alarm.
Call freephone 0800 3281830.
Firefighter Sean Croudace fitted a free smoke alarm in the home of Cwmbran resident Brian Palfrey
Leisure centre progress
Ed Bampton, from the Welsh Development Agency, Bob Wellington, Leader of Torfaen Council, and Trevor Baylis, at the opening of the
Springboard Innovation Centre.
Free smoke alarms
YOU can now follow the development of Pontypool leisure centre through a great new website. The centre is undergoing a £6.85 million redevelopment and is due to reopen later this year. If you want to find out the latest news go to: www.pontypoolleisure.torfaen.gov.uk
It contains updates on the progress along with virtual tours where you see inside the centre and how the work is transforming the centre.
YSGOL Gynradd Hillside yw’r Ysgol ddiweddaraf i gofrestru fel Canolfan Weithgareddau Prifysgol y Plant.
Mae pymtheg cant o blant ac ieuenctid o 12 ysgol, pedwar grw^ p ieuenctid cymunedol ac 11
cynllun chwarae Torfaen wrthi’n ddyfal yn casglu credydau ar gyfer gweithgareddau allgyrsiol drwy weithgareddau Prifysgol y Plant.
Mae ysgolion yn cynnig ystod eang o weithgareddau allgyr-siol lle y gwelwn blant yn ennill credydau sy’n arwain at naill ai gwobr aur, arian neu efydd a chynhelir y seremoni graddio ym Mhrifysgol Cymru, Casnewydd.
Ymysg y gweithgareddau cynigir dosbarthiadau aerobeg Plant Iach, clybiau darllen, cyngor yr ysgol, rygbi, pêl droed, pêl rwyd, criced, golff, celf, crefft, dawnsio gwlad, garddio, cyfrifiaduron, clybiau eco, cerddoriaeth a drama. Yn ogystal ceir ymweliadau cymunedol, perfformiadau, cyngherddau ar ôl ysgol, ffeiriau ysgol a gweithgareddau cymunedol.
Gwobrwyir y credydau gan Brifysgol Cymru, Casnewydd a cheir cefnogaeth gan Gronfa Gymunedol Ewrop. Mae gweithgareddau Aerobeg Plant Iach yn cael eu hariannu gan gronfa’r Loteri.
Am fanylion galwch Janis Davis, ar 01633 648047.
Heading to Uni’ Bant i’r Brifysgol
Torfaen Children’s University Coordinator, Janis Davies presents a certificate to Hillside school head boy and girl,
Kyle Jones and Abbie MacIntyre
Cydlynydd Prifysgol y Plant Torfaen, Janis Davies yn cyflwyno tystysgrif i brif fachgen a phrif ferch Ysgol Hillside,
Kyle Jones ac Abbie MacIntyre
www.webster.uk.net If you need us, call 01495 762200 Page 3
Family problems?
You may need ‘family’ advice at diff erent times in your life. Knowing that help is available, and what the options are, can make the problem seem far less daunting.
If you claim Income Support, Income Based Job Seekers Allowance or Pension Credit you are entitled to FREE legal aid. In addition for those on a low income, the advice may be free. Your local solicitor will be able to inform you if this is the case. Family solicitors provide confi dential and impartial advice on all family issues, irrespective of whether you are
married or in a relationship. Seeking advice for any problem, does not commit you to taking action. It does however provide you with a clear understanding of your rights and choices.
ACCESS TO YOUR CHILD DOMESTIC VIOLENCEDIVORCE HARRASSMENT SEPARATION
CHILDREN IN CARE ABUSE MONEY MATTERS
Feel GoodThe benefi ts of exercising are huge. Regular exercise will give you more energy, help improve your circulation and boost your body’s defences, helping to resist nasty germs and viruses. Regular exercise can help to combat obesity and improve circulation, helping to reduce the risk of health problems such as heart attack and stroke. Exercising has also been found to prevent and deal with depression. Getting active will release happy endorphins in your brain, cheer you up and help you feel more relaxed.
Look GoodTempted to eat more when it’s cold? Exercising will help you lose any excess weight and tone your body. Eat a healthy diet, avoid comfort eating and take regular exercise, and you should be able to maintain a healthy body weight. Exercise also helps to improve muscle defi nition and the appearance of the skin, and can enhance posture, suppleness and mobility. Keep with a regular exercise regime over the coming months, and you’ll be in great shape to hit the beach this summer.
Torfaen Health & Wellbeing Fitness suite facilities and group exercise classes are the ideal way of improving your health, maintaining fi tness levels, losing weight, training for competitive sports and improving your social life.
Check out the health & fi tness facilities at Cwmbran Stadium and Blaenavon Leisure Centre and take advantage of the excellent cardiovascular and resistance equipment available, in addition to access to a broad range of exercise classes to suit all levels and relaxing spa facilities.
Trained staff are on hand to work with people com-mitted to improving their fi tness levels. They can also provide specialist programmes for people recuperating from major illness or operations, as part of the Torfaen Exercise for Life Scheme. The fi tness suite also caters for people with disabilities with customised equipment and easy access facilities.
NEW FOR 2006Off peak memberships (including weekends)
from as little as £25 per month. Call the fi tness suites to fi nd out the latest special offers.
CWMBRAN 01633 627109BLAENAVON 01495 792371
COMPETITION Enter this easy competition for your chance to win a year’s membership at Cwmbran Stadium and Blaenavon Recreation Centre Fitness Suites. There are two passes available so you’ve got an extra chance of winning.
Question: What is the name of the Trust that supports Torfaen’s young sport stars?(Clue - The answer is featured in a story on this page)
Send your entry to Total Health Competition, Torfaen Council, FREEPOST, SWC 3348, Pontypool, NP4 6ZZ. Entrants must be aged 16 or over. The closing date is Friday 3 February.
Blaenavon and Cwmbran Fitness Suites are part of the Torfaen Total Health & Fitness scheme operated by Leisure, Youth & Cultural Services, Torfaen County Borough Council.
GAVIN Hanrahan is the latest youngster to be helped by the Mic Morris Memorial Trust. The trust gives promising Torfaen young people a £100 grant to spend on new kit and competition expenses.
He runs for Cwmbran Harriers and is the East Wales 800 metre champion and the Welsh 3000m champion.
Grants are available to anyone aged under 21 who performs, trains or competes at a national level and who lives in Torfaen and competes for a Torfaen club. Call Christine Philpott on 01633 628936 to get a grant application form.
Help for future sporting stars
The following solicitors are in your area and ready to help now.Everett Tomlin Lloyd & Pratt, Cwmbran 01633 869521
GET FIT FOR FREEWin a one year pass to Cwmbran Stadium and Blaenavon Leisure Centre fi tness suites worth over £300
ALISON WARD has now been Chief Executive of Torfaen Council for one year. Here Alison answers some key questions.
What has been your biggest challenge in the last year?
The biggest challenge for me and the Leader of the Council has been to restructure the organisation into one that is modern, progres-sive, responsive to customers’ needs and provides value for money for the council taxpayer. The Council is now nearly ten years old, and a lot of good things have been achieved in that time, but to be ready for the next ten years we needed to think more about delivering services in a way that meets the needs of our citizens and less about doing it in a way that suits the convenience of our organisational structure. What has been your greatest achievement?
I believe that I have achieved my aim of creating a new management structure for the Council that will take us forward to deliver truly excellent services whilst at the same time making considerable savings on the cost of senior management that we will be able to reinvest into services. The top management team that we have now is leaner and much more focused on delivering on the things that really matter to people. I started the process of thinking about what the new structure should look like by spending time talking to our Councillors about what their priorities were, and then making sure that the Council was in the right shape to deliver on those priorities.
What are you looking forward to in 2006? I’m looking forward to working with
motivated staff and committed Councillors who are as excited as I am about making real changes for the better in ways that will improve the quality of life for people in our communities.
What are your aspirations for Torfaen residents this year?
There are fi ve things that Councillors and I have agreed are top priorities for next year and the following few years. These are:● Making our communities safer and reducing the fear of crime. ● Investing in the education and life opportunities of young people. ● Taking care of the needs of vulnerable people.
● Creating an environment where everyone in Torfaen can afford a decent place to live. ● Having effective plans in place to deal with the growing problem of dealing with the waste that our society creates.
How will the restructuring that you have talked about provide a better service for residents?
We have many good services, of which we have every reason to be proud, and we will continue to make sure that the standards of service delivery remain high. However, in addition to this, the new senior managers in the Council will be concentrating on broad outcomes that have a major impact on people’s lives such as: are people healthier; are our communities safer; is there a real feeling of improvement and regeneration in our towns; do young people have more opportunities for achievement and fulfi lment? This is a new way of looking at measuring the success of local government, but I believe that it is closer to delivering the sort of things that people really want. I do understand how much of a fi nancial burden the council tax is for many people, especially those who are pensioners or on low incomes. So it is really important that we spend the money that we receive in way that genuinely makes life better for our citizens and provides them with excellent value for money.
A year at the top
Alison Ward
✁
Page 4 If you need us, call 01495 762200 or visit www.torfaen.gov.uk Page 5
THERE is something to suit all tastes and ages in Torfaen, whatever the weather. So don’t miss the opportunity to discover more about this fascinating landscape and culture with a visit to some of the many attractions in the area.
We have picked out a small selection of things you can do in 2006 so make sure you keep this feature in a safe place.
Big Pit National Coal Museum offers visitors the opportunity to descend 300 feet below the ground to experience what it was like to be a miner while back on the surface there are brand new exhibitions
and galleries to keep you busy. Nearby is Blaenavon ironworks which is the best preserved 18th century ironworks in the world.
Blaenavon community heritage & Cordell museum has a huge array of exhibits on show which guide you through the intriguing history of Blaenavon and the museum also offers a family history research facility. Pontypool & Blaenavon railway is the highest standard gauge preserved railway in Wales. Griffithstown railway museum was previously a great Western Railway Goods shed but has since
been fully restored and is home to one of the finest collections of railway artefacts in the UK. Pontypool museum documents the fascinating history of the valley and also houses both permanent and temporary art exhibitions. Llanyrafon mill in Cwmbran is one of the few surviving triple stone water mills left in the country and is currently being restored.
Children are well catered for at Greenmeadow community farm where the adventure playground will provide hours of fun along with meeting all your favourite farmyard animals. Art lovers are encour-
aged to visit Llantarnam grange arts centre, just a short walk from Cwmbran town centre. Housed in a Victorian gentleman’s residence the grange has three gallery spaces showing a range of art and craft.
There are plenty of adrenaline pumping activities to keep you busy as well. You can experience the thrills of karting at the outdoor G-Force karting track or test your balancing skills on the slopes at Pontypool dry ski slope, while Llandegfedd reservoir offers the perfect base for a range of water based activities such as sailing with Gwent Adventure Sailing.
FIND OUT MORE Whatever you decide to do, don’t forget to contact Torfaen Tourist Information Centre before you
visit to check opening times or for more information.
PONTYPOOL dry ski slope is a fantastic facility which is open throughout the year. It does not matter whether it is sunny or snowy this 230 metre slope is always open for skiers and snowboarders.
It boasts a main slope and a novice area where you can practice your skills. It is in the beautiful setting of Pontypool Park and its ski surface is set on a natural hillside which is both appealing for beginners and challenging for the more advanced or adventurous skiers or snowboarders.
If you are a beginner don’t worry as you can have lessons from qualified instructors to help you build your confidence. The centre provides tuition throughout the
year. All beginners must first have three fun lessons. All centre staff are trained ski/snowboard instructors.
Call 01495 756955 for opening times and prices.
Skiing in Torfaen
A skier enjoying Pontypooldry ski slope
TORFAEN is home to some top sporting teams. If you want to exercise your vocal chords instead of your muscles go along and give them a cheer on a Saturday afternoon. Cwmbran Town football club play their home games at Cwmbran Stadium. They play in the Welsh Premier league. Their history highlights include a home friendly against Manchester United and a Uefa cup match against Glasgow Celtic. Cwmbran Town have even played in every European Cup competition - the Champions League, the Uefa Cup, the Cup Winners Cup and the Intertoto Cup.
The beautiful Pontypool Park is home to Pontypool rugby football club who play in the Principality Building Society Premier-ship Division. The team has had a fond place in the hearts of rugby fans across the world since the famous “Pontypool Front
Row” of Graham Price, Bobby Windsor and Charlie Faulkner, represented Wales together in the 1970s. Visit the club website at www.pontypoolrugby.co.uk
Both clubs are family friendly and welcome new supporters of all ages.
To keep up to date with the latest sports news, fixtures and kick off times read the local newspapers.
If supporting your local team has encouraged you to start playing sport you will be spoilt for choice. It does not matter if you are a beginner or more experienced you will find a club who will welcome your enthusiasm. To find out more about local teams and contact information call Stuart Lawrence, Torfaen Council’s Sports Development Manager, on 01633 628963 or email [email protected]
Cheer your local team
A DAY in Pontypool is not complete without a visit to its beautiful park. The town is fortunate to have this facility so close to the town centre shops. The list of things you can do in the park is endless
A guided walk leaflet is available which will take you around the park’s highlights including the Folly Tower and Shell Grotto. The leaflet shows how the park has evolved from the private residence of the local ironmaster to the people’s park of today. It is a 3.6km walk which will take about two hours. If that sounds too strenuous you can just sit on a park bench and watch the world go by or enjoy a picnic.
Call the Pontypool Park manager on 01495 764688.
Pontypool Park
PONTYPOOL Museum is next to Pontypool Park and is set in a Georgian Stable Block, with central courtyard. The stone archway and cobbled walkway gives a wonderful ambience to the start of your visit. The Museum houses a collection of local artefacts with an outstanding display
of Japanware, which was made in the town in the eighteenth century. Refurbished in 2005 the imposing Glantorfaen Room Dining Furniture Display, boasts new audio facilities, lighting, projections and tactile imagery.
The Barker Gallery is fast building a repu-tation for its fine art exhibitions, sculptural and ceramic displays and the small ‘Cafe Art’ area hosts exhibitions for local artists.
The Dobell-Moseley Library & Archive is available for research into the area and its people. Other facilities include room hire for conference/training sessions and community group use, together with a programme of workshops for schools and adult learning.
This is only a small taste of what you can see and do in the Museum. There is lots more for you to enjoy.
MUSEUM OPENING TIMESMonday - Friday 10am - 5pmSaturday - Sunday 2pm - 5pmAdmission is free on Wednesdays and Sundays.
Entry costs £1.20 Adults 60p Concessions. Entry is free to Torfaen Library cardholders. Call 01495 752036.
Pontypool Museum
Learn more about the area with a visit to Pontypool Museum
St. David’s Road, Cwmbran.OPENING TIMES -
Monday to Saturday - 10am - 5pm (closed bank holidays) - Admission is free
BASED in a Victorian House in the centre of Cwmbran, it dates back to the 12th Century, when a monastic farm stood on the site, supplying Llantarnam Abbey. The grange hosts a series of exciting exhibitions throughout the year. These range across the arts including a variety of media, for example, painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, ceramics, textiles, crafts and jewellery.
The centre has a craft shop, which shows a selection of the best in contemporary designers and makers from throughout the
UK. Artists working in ceramics, glass, metal and textiles exhibit their work in the craft shop area. The shop also sells a selection of paintings and prints by local artists in addi-tion to cards and gift wrapping. There is an extensive programme of art and craft classes and courses for both children and adults. Some are even free of charge.
The Grange has a café which serves coffee, a wide selection of specially prepared lunches and snacks, afternoon tea and home made cakes. It is an ideal place to relax with friends over a coffee or lunch (open 10am - 4pm).
Free parking is available throughout the town centre which is next to the Grange. It is a few minutes walk from both the town’s bus and train station.
DIRECTIONS:Junction 26 from M4, follow signs to Cwmbran and brown tourist signs for Llantarnam Grange (showing symbol of a pot). For more details contact: Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre.Call 01633 483321 or email [email protected]
Llantarnam Grange Arts
CentreBrowse the craft
shop in Llantarnam grange arts centre
THE stunning landscape that makes up one of Wales’ key historic sites was opened to walkers earlier this spring. The ‘Iron Mountain Trail’ is an 18km ‘figure of eight’ footpath which takes in the scenery from Blaenavon to Llanfoist. It follows existing rights of way, historic tram roads and inclines and adds to the area’s reputation as a top tourist destination by attracting visitors from across the UK.
The route links many of the World Heritage Site’s attractions including the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, Llanfoist Wharf, and Blaenavon Booktown. It runs through Torfaen, Monmouthshire, the Brecon Beacons National Park and several Sites of Special Scientific Interest and key historic features such as Garnddyrys, Pwll Du and Blaenavon Ironworks. The highest point of the route is the Blorenge
which offers spectacular views of the Usk Valley and Severn Estuary.
The Trail was funded by Herian, Wales Tourist Board and the Welsh Development Agency. It has improved access for the disabled, gates have replaced stiles, distinctive signs have been installed and replica trams fitted at Llanfoist Wharf.
A pack of six leaflets of walking routes in and around Blaenavon is available free from Torfaen Council’s Countryside Team.
IF you are a book lover then you should come and visit Blaenavon Booktown. It has a variety of bookshops through the middle of the town so you have plenty of choice.Blaenavon Booktown was officially launched in 2003. It has since enjoyed lots of media coverage including appearances in the local newspapers, national newspapers and even on Sky News.
Each shop stocks a variety of books on different subjects like poetry, drama, natural history, entertainment, music and
children’s literature. The bookshops are open weekdays and weekends but hours do vary for each shop.
You can also enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in local cafes and explore the rest of the town.
If you’d like more information on Blaenavon Booktown you can visit www.booktownblaenafon.com which has all the latest information you need on all of the bookshops in the town.
Blaenavon Booktown
TORFAEN is lucky to have the Monmouth-shire and Brecon canal running through it. It offers lots of opportunities to relax and enjoy your leisure time. It is perfect for a walk with the family or a peaceful stroll.
Barges can sail from Brecon to Pontypool and on to the marina at Five Locks in Pontnewydd. The rest of the canal from this point in Cwmbran is broken up because of the roads. Dog walkers enjoy exercising their pets from the early morning to dusk.
Joggers also have a great time using the towpath for exercise with long flat stretches followed by steep locks to test their fitness levels. Try Two Locks or Five Locks if you want to get your heart racing. The stretch from the top of Five Locks to Pontypool is flat and perfect for a more relaxing run.
Walkers can stop for a drink and a snack at a number of waterside pubs along the canal. Nature spotters can enjoy themselves armed with a pair of binoculars and a notebook. It is a popular venue for fishing and is stocked with a variety of fish including carp, tench and roach. You must
have a rod licence from the Environment Agency and the relevant permit from the local fishing club.
Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal
A cormorant on the canal bank
TRAVEL 300ft underground down a mineshaft by a pit cage, guided by experienced colliery miners. Experience what life was like for thousands of men who worked at the coal face and hear stories that come alive. The underground tour lasts 50 minutes which is a thrilling tour about the life of people within the mining industry from every perspective.
Last year it had around 150,000 visitors. Big Pit also received £7.2 million in grants which has been used to develop new buildings, increase access and open new exhibitions and displays. You can enjoy a memorable adventure, pick up a souvenir from the gift shop or relax and have a snack in the coffee shop or canteen.
Big Pit, winners of the 2005 Gulbenkian Prize for Best UK Museum, is open for everyone, so come and take advantage of the free entry for all the family and be amazed.
You can see what Big Pit in Blaenavon has to offer by visiting www.nmgw.ac.uk
Big Pit is open every day between 10am-3.30pm. Call 01495 790311 or email [email protected]
Big Pit: National Coal Museum
It is free entry for everyone at Big Pit
Experience what life as a minerwas really like
James Hanna- The man who brought the bookshops to Blaenavon
HAVE you ever milked a cow, met a llama or watched a sheep being sheared? Greenmeadow community farm gives you the chance to do all of this and much more.
This 150 acre working farm has become bigger and better since it opened over 20 years ago. It’s a fantastic fun day out for all the family with tractor and trailer rides, dragon adventure play area, sand pits and pets corner.
There is always lots to see and do and some surprises to look for, like a herd of llamas or a gang of friendly piglets. There is a nature trail, livestock including rare and Welsh breeds, a wild fowl area and ponds creating a haven for rare and wintering birds. Our adventure playground will provide hours of fun for older children whilst the toddlers will enjoy Old McDon-alds sandpit and Rex the water spraying dragon.
FACILITIES AVAILABLE: In the old Welsh Farmhouse there is a gift shop, café and ‘Sheep Dip’ bar where parents can relax as the children enjoy their new found friends. Outside there is a picnic area and play park.USEFUL INFORoad: From Cwmbran town centre follow the signs for Greenmeadow and the sheep symbol on the brown tourist signs. Bus: Number 6 from Cwmbran town centre. Rail: Cwmbran 1 mile. Parking: Free car parking.Entry: Adults £4 Children £3Opening Times: Summer opening hours 10 - 6pm with last admission at 4.30pmWinter opening hours 10 - 4.30pm with last admission at 3.30pmTelephone: 01633 862202 Email: [email protected]
GreenmeadowCommunity Farm
Meet the animals at the farm
HAVE you ever cycled over a viaduct? Walked along the tightest horseshoe bend on any railway in Britain? Or ridden a horse 1,200 feet above sea level?
All of these can be done along the National Cycle Network, Route 46, which runs the length of Torfaen, from Cwmbran in the south to Blaenavon in the north. Better known as the ‘Leisure Route’ because in the north section, horses can share the path with walkers and cyclists.
The route takes in a variety of landscapes. The southern route runs along part of the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal. In other parts it runs along the route of the old mineral railway line, which was originally opened in 1878, serving the various mines and other industrial works in the area.
The cycleway crosses over the Garndif-faith viaduct which was constructed in 1876 to carry trains along the mineral railway, and is a lasting example of Victorian architectural engineering.
At Cwmffrwdoer the route follows the dismantled mineral railway, which curves in an unusual horseshoe shape bend – apparently the tightest horseshoe bend on any railway in Britain. Along this section are reminders of the Victorian age in railway architecture, bridges, embankments, walls and culverts.
As the route gradually climbs to Blaenavon, you are approximately 1,200 feet above sea level. The landscape around Blaenavon is now a World Heritage Site with spectacular views.
For further information about the cycle route call Torfaen Council’s Countryside Services team on 01633 648066.
Cycling and Horseriding
Come and meet all your favourite farmyard animals anda few more exotic ones too.
Cyclists at Garn Lakes in Blaenavon
DO you live in Torfaen? LOST for something to do on theweekend? DO you know what is on your doorstep?
Have fun in Pontypool Park
Page 6 If you need us, call 01495 762200 www.torfaen.gov.uk
The phone number of PC 256 Barnett, who covers the Garndiffaith area, was incorrect in the last edition of Torfaen Talks. If you want to call this officer please ring 01495 772540.
Deborah Smith from Sebastopol won £50 after completing the recycling questionnaire in the July edition of Torfaen Talks. Mrs C. Brown of Hollybush, Cwmbran was the winner of November’s competition to win a family pantomime ticket for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
A service which supports families where a relative is abusing drugs or alcohol has a new phone number. Drugs and Family Support is a Gwent wide service and offers telephone helpline, face to face support, group meetings and referral to relevant services. Call DAFS on 01495 240824.
Do you have a business that attracts walkers, cyclists and horse-riders? Would you like to improve the facilities you offer them or promote your business to attract more of them? The Informal Recreation Project, run by the Countryside Services at Torfaen County Borough Council, is offering grants to support businesses who would like to attract visitors taking part in outdoor activities and enjoying the countryside. The grants can be given for marketing and advertising; as well as for providing or improving facilities for those visitors. The grants will require 50% match-funding, and are aimed at businesses located in and around Torfaen. If you think that you will qualify for one of these grants and would like an informal chat, please call Katie Crump, on 01633 648329, or email [email protected]
Could your workplace become more environmentally friendly? Many organisations have grasped the opportunity to save money by raising their environmental performance. The Green Dragon offers a system relevant to the needs of any company, large or small. A grant can help eligible Torfaen organisations to buy equipment or machinery that will reduce or eliminate their environmental impact and improve their environmental
management. The Council’s Economic Development team and Highways & Engineering team are leading the way. Both teams successfully gained level two of the Green Dragon Environmental Standard. For free advice call Rachael O’Shaughnessy, 01633 648018, or visit www.greendragonwales.com
Tenants in Pontnewynydd can now visit a surgery to discuss any issues or problems directly with the housing department. It takes place at Flat 2, Fairview Court, Pontnewynydd from 10am-12.30pm on Tuesday-Friday. Call 01495 766282 or 761810 to make an appointment.
“Kids’ Fit” classes now run in Torfaen during term-time and school holidays. They are run by Liz, a qualified fitness instructor, who aims to promote physical activity for children by making it fun and enjoyable. A typical session involves a warm up, followed by activities such as space hoppers, obstacle races, aerobics, or ball games. It ends with a cool down and stretch. Classes cost £2.50 and take place in Griffithstown and Greenmeadow for children aged five to 11. Call 01633 675003.
What are you doing next summer? Do you want to do something really useful and get paid for it? Cwmbran commu-nity council is organising seven summer playschemes for over 800 primary school children. They are looking to appoint 70 playleaders. Applicants must be aged over 18 and keen to work with children. They must be resilient, responsible, unflappable and adaptable plus not be afraid of hard work.The pay is £155 for a 30 hour week. Training takes place from 27 July and the playschemes run from 31 July to 25 August. The closing date is 1 March. Call the Community Council on 01633 838456.
Are you in a rush to learn Welsh? An intensive twice-weekly Welsh beginners’ course is starting on Tuesday 24 January at the Adult Training Centre, The Highway, Croesyceiliog, from 7pm to 9pm. The class also meets on Thursdays. Call 01633 485052 to book your place and to find out more information.
NEWS IN BRIEF MAE Gweinidog Plant Cymru wedi cymeradwyo ymrwymiad Torfaen at egwyddorion craidd Cytundeb y Cenhedloedd Unedig ar Hawliau Plant.
Dywedodd Jane Hutt AC fod Torfaen wedi gwneud
cyfraniad pwysig i ddatbly-giad gwasanaethau plant yng Nghymru. Dychwelodd i’r fwrdeistref i weld sut y mae gwasanaethau iechyd meddwl plant ac ieuenctid wedi gwella.
Dywedodd: “Mae’r gwaith yr ydych wedi ei gyflawni, yn enwedig y dull yr ydych wedi codi ymwybyddiaeth o anghenion iechyd meddwl plant ac ieuenctid, y ffordd yr ydych wedi ei wneud yn ‘fater i chi’, yn gyfraniad pwysig iawn i ddatblygiad gwasanaethau plant drwy Gymru.”
Yr oedd y digwyddiad hefyd yn gyfle i arddangos rhai o’r mentrau sydd wedi digwydd ar y cyd rhwng Gwasanaethau Cymdeithasol Torfaen, Bwrdd Iechyd Torfaen a’u partneriaid. Gyda’i gilydd, maent wedi achosi gwelliant arwyddocaol mewn darpariaeth iechyd meddwl ar gyfer ieuenctid.
Torfaen oedd y sir gyntaf yng Nghymru i lansio ei Strategaeth Iechyd Meddwl Plant a Phobl Ifanc yn 2003.
Photo L to R: Andrew Roberts, 16, and Sarah Kelland, 15, of Torfaen Young People’s Forum, with Jane Hutt AM
and Councillor Rose Seabourne, Torfaen’s executive member for Health and Social Care
Llun Ch i’r Dd: Andrew Roberts, 16, a Sarah Kelland, 15, o Fforwm Ieuenctid Torfaen, gyda Jane Hutt AC
a’r Cynghorydd Rose Seabourne, aelod gweithredol Torfaen dros Iechyd a Gofal Cymunedol
● The first round of meetings saw over 500 tenants and leaseholders come along to find out more.● We have answered lots of questions about the new landlord and implications about homes being transferred. All questions and answers are available on the website at www.torfaen.gov.uk and then click on Housing Choices.
There will be more news in January when: ● The name of the new landlord and proposals for the type of not for profit landlord to be created if a transfer goes ahead will be announced. This will happen after discussions with tenants and councillors.● Tenants will be invited to put their names forward for election to the board of the new landlord. If you are interested in standing please call the freephone number below.● We will ask the Tenant Consultation Groups for their views to shape the new landlord and its services.
Over the next six months decisions will be made with tenants about service improvements the new landlord would be able to offer. Regular newsletters will make sure everyone affected is kept informed.
If you have any questions or would like to get involved in shaping the new landlord and its services then call our dedicated team on 0800 0286933 during office hours.
Stock transfer latest news...
Praise for Torfaen from Children’s Minister
Y Gweinidog Plant yn canu clodydd Torfaen
THIRTY five youngsters from Trevethin raised £200 for the Mayor of Torfaen’s charity appeal. They took part in a sponsored six mile bike ride from Cold Barn Farm to the Folly Tower and back again.
Councillor Lewis Jones, Deputy Leader of Torfaen Council, helped organise the bike ride. He said: “It was a great day even though it was pouring with rain. Some of the bikes broke down during the ride but even that didn’t take the smiles off their faces.
“Young people in Tre-vethin often get accused of anti-social behaviour. This tremendous effort sends out
a strong message that only a minority of young people cause anti-social problems in our neighbourhoods. It shows that most young people do have enthusiasm
and community commitment. This group were keen to take part and do some good work to support the Mayor’s charity appeal. “
The event involved the whole Trevethin com-munity including local councillors, the police, the council’s sports development team, community workers, the Mayor and local young people.
The Mayor is raising money for Cancer Research Wales, the NSPCC, the 3rd Pontypool Guides and the 4th Pontypool Brownies.
Bike ride raises money
THE Children’s Minister for Wales has commended Torfaen’s commitment to the core principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Jane Hutt AM said Torfaen had made an important contribution to the development of services for children throughout Wales. She returned to the borough to see how mental health services for children and young people had improved.
She said: “The work that you have done, especially the way in which you have raised awareness of the mental health needs of children and young people, the way in which you have really made it ‘your business’, is an important contribution to the development of services for children throughout Wales.”
The event acted as a showcase for some of the joint initiatives from Torfaen Social Services, Torfaen Local Health Board and their partners which together
have dramatically improved mental health provision for young people.
Torfaen was the first county in Wales to launch its Children and Adolescent Mental Health Strategy in 2003.
Some of the youngsters who took part presented theMayor with a £200 cheque
THE long awaited licence for the Toradio project has been granted by media regulators Ofcom. Toradio will cover all of Torfaen - from the centre of Cwmbran to the outer limits of Blaenavon - for five years.
The station will be operated by community media group Tormedia, who last year ran temporary trial stations in Blaenavon and Cwmbran, and currently run an online radio service from
Pontypool.The launch date for the
station has yet to be set, but the hunt for the Jeremy Vines and Jonathan Ross’s of the future is now on. More volunteers are needed to join the team and help make Toradio fulfil its role as local radio for local people. Help behind the scenes is also needed.
Call 01633 838063 or see www.tormedia.info
MAE’R aros hir am drwydded cynllun Toradio wedi cael ei ganiatau gan y rheolydd cyf-ryngau Ofcom. Bydd Toradio yn gwasanaethu Torfaen i gyd – o ganol Cwmbrân i gyrion y sir ym Mlaenafon – am bum mlynedd.
Bydd yr orsaf yn cael ei rheoli gan y grw^ p cyfryngau’r gymuned Tormedia, a redodd orsafoedd prawf ym Mlaenafon and Chwmbrân, ac y maent yn darparu gwasanaeth gorsaf radio
ar-lein o Bont-y-pw^ l.Ni does dyddiad lansio
wedi ei bennu eto ond mae’r chwilio am Hywel Gwynfryn a Roy Noble y dyfodol eisoes wedi dechrau. Mae angen rhagor o wirfoddolwyr arnom i ymuno â’r tîm ac i sicrhau fod Toradio yn cyflawni ei swyddogaeth fel radio lleol i’r bobl leol. Mae angen cymorth yn y cefndir hefyd.
Galwch 01633 838063 neu ymwelwch â www.tormedia.info
Community radio for Torfaen is go!
Radio cymunedol Torfaen – bant â ni !
www.webster.uk.net If you need us, call 01495 762200 Page 7
MEET YOUR COUNCILLOR
* Where Surgeries fall on a Bank Holiday please call 01495 766092 to check they’re taking place. No Surgeries during August
ABERSYCHANCouncillor Gwyneira Clark ..... 01495 [email protected] Ken Clark ................. 01495 [email protected] arrange appointment or home visitCouncillor Raymond Williams 01495 774723
BLAENAVONCouncillor Tom Huish ................ 01495 791822Councillor Stuart Evans ............ 01495 [email protected] Friday of every month* alternating between 3 venuesBlaenavon Workman’s Hall July 2004Garn-yr-Erw Welfare HallAugust 2004 Forgeside Community Hall September 20047pm - 8.30pmand alternating each month* thereafterCouncillor Neil Lewis ................ 01495 [email protected] Friday of every month*Blaenavon Workman’s Hall 6pm - 7pm
BRYNWERNCouncillor Leonard Constance 01495 755669
COED EVACouncillor Agnes MacGill ......... 01633 [email protected] Saturday of every month*Hollybush & Coed Eva Community Hall10am - 12 noon
CROESYCEILIOG SOUTHCouncillor Marlene Thomas .... 01633 [email protected]
CWMYNYSCOYCouncillor Neil Waite ................ 01495 [email protected] arrange appointment or home visit
FAIRWATERCouncillor Bill King ..................... 01633 [email protected] Phil Seabourne ........ 01633 [email protected] Saturday of every month*SWAP Office, Fairwater Shopping Precinct10.30am - 12 noon
GREENMEADOWCouncillor Rose Seabourne ..... 01633 [email protected] Bob Wellington ....... 01633 [email protected] Saturday of every month*Greenmeadow & St Dials Community Hall, Pandy, Greenmeadow9.30am - 11am followed by Surgery atThornhill Community Centre11.00am - 12 noon
LLANTARNAMCouncillor Mike Gough ............. 01633 485543Councillor Barbara Ryan ........... 01633 [email protected] arrange appointment or home visit
LLANYRAFON NORTHCouncillor Glyn Caron .............. 01633 [email protected] Saturday of every month*(Except Aug & Dec)Llanyrafon Social Centre2.00pm - 3.30pm
LLANYRAFON SOUTHCouncillor Margaret Pead ........ 01633 [email protected]
NEW INNCouncillors Helen Ford ............ 01495 [email protected] Morgan .......................... 01495 [email protected] Turner .................................... 01495 [email protected] Saturday of every month*
PANTEGCouncillor Gwilliam Evans ....... 01495 764244Second Saturday of every month* alternatingbetween 2 venuesSebastopol Labour Hall July 2004Griffithstown Labour Hall August 2004and alternating each month* thereafter11am - 12 noonCouncillor Kathleen Williams .. 01495 [email protected] Brenda Edwards ..... 01495 769743
PONTNEWYDDCouncillors Gwyn Coles .......... 01633 [email protected] Mawby ................................. 01633 [email protected] James ...................................... 01633 [email protected] Saturday of the month*Mount Pleasant Hall 10.30am - 12 noon
PONTYPOOLCouncillor Lyn Irwin .................. 01495 753991Third Friday of every month*St Matthew’s Church Hall, Blaendare11.15am - 1.15pmLast Friday of every month*Civic Centre, Pontypool 11.15am - 1.15pm
ST DIALSCouncillor Mervyn Reece ........ 01633 770364Councillor Julianna Biggs ........... 01633 [email protected] Saturday of every month*Melbourne Court Sheltered Housing Complex 9am - 11am
ST CADOCS/PENYGARNCouncillor Michael Davies ........ 01495 [email protected]
TWO LOCKS & HENLLYSCouncillors Stuart Cameron ... 01633 [email protected] Thomas ........................... 01633 [email protected] Saturday of every month*Hollybush and Coed Eva Community Hall10am - 12 noonCouncillor Ronald BurnettTo arrange appointment or home visit please ring ...................................... 01633 874157
UPPER CWMBRANCouncillors Bob Jones ............... 01633 838658Mary Barnett ................................ 01633 [email protected] Cunningham ........................ 01633 [email protected] First Saturday of every month*Pontnewydd Housing Office,Maendy Way Shopping Centre & Thornhill Community Centre 10am - 12 noon
WAINFELINCouncillor Yvonne Warren ...... 01495 [email protected] Saturday of every month*St John’s Church 10.30am - 12pm
Win £500 for travel writing
You can win £500 in the Alexander Cordell travel writing competition. Cordell created vivid characters which brought to life the heritage of South Wales. For the Alexander Cordell prize for travel writing 2006 we invite you to imagine that one or more of the characters featured in his Welsh novels have travelled through time to the present day and consider through their eyes how the area has changed, physically, socially and culturally.
The prize will be awarded for an article which, in the judges opinion, captures this sense of place in the most original and engaging way.
First prize £500, second prize £300, third prize £150.
The Alexander Cordell Schools’ Prize
Cordell recorded history for himself. He talked to local historians, librarians and recorded anecdotes, myths and legends as told by the older genera-tion. This prize will be awarded for the best piece of historical or travel writing about Cordell Country. The competi-tion is open to anyone aged 11-18 attending school in South Wales.
Age 16-18: first prize £75, second prize £50, third prize £25 Age 11-15: first prize £30, second prize £20, third prize £15
The closing date for both competitions is Sunday 30 April. For an application form or more information call Torfaen Tourist information centre on 01495 792615 or visit www.cordellcountry.org
TWENTY pupils recently put their prize winning drawings into action. They were all on the shortlist for the “Keep Blaenavon Tidy” poster com-petition. The pupils, from Hillside and St Peter’s primary schools, then took part in a litter pick.
Jessica Whiting and Elinor Jones were the overall winners and have had their drawings blown up to A3 poster size and displayed in local shops and notice boards.
The pupils met in Bethlehem Court, Broad Street, armed with black bags and litter pickers. Martyn Styles, an environmental warden for Torfaen Council’s Operational Services Department, organised the competition and litter pick.
The litter pickers get ready for action
Putting their posters into action
SCHOOLS, nurseries and after school clubs across Torfaen can cash in on a competition to recycle as many old Yellow Pages as they can. The Yellow Woods Challenge started in December and runs until March. Residents can also recycle their old Yellow Pages directory by putting it into their black recycling box for collection every week.
Write and Win
The schools that collect the most directories per child will win cash prizes. Kirk the recycling bug and Councillor John Cunningham, Executive
Member for Operational Services, met last year’s winners Ponthir VC school and welcomed children from Busy Bees and Ysgol Feithrin to
kick-off this year’s campaign.
Pounds for Yellow Pages
Page 8 If you need us, call 01495 762200 www.torfaen.gov.uk
HEALTHCARE affects every one of us. From the day we are born to the mo-ment we take our last breath, whether we enjoy good health all our lives or suffer from a long-term illness like asthma or heart disease, the majority of people will have regular contact with health professionals – doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, etc.
And as the population ages and expectations become higher, the demands placed upon healthcare services are escalating and will continue to do so.
This is why, in Torfaen, widespread work is underway to make sure health, social care and housing support services not only meet people’s current needs but will continue to meet them for the foreseeable future.
The agencies which are responsible for health and social care provision in the borough – the Local Health Board (LHB), the Council and Gwent Healthcare NHS Trust – are looking at
new ways of delivering services which will increase the range and quality of services available locally.
The LHB consulted local people on their Primary Care Estates Strategy between September and November this year. This highlighted a number of options but the favourite approach that emerged was to have more local services delivered from a combination of the
most suitable present premises and purpose-built replacement buildings.
It’s all about modernising services for the 21st century. There are many reasons why change is so important.
Here are a few:● There has been too much reliance on hospital care. Hospitals are over-crowded and people have to wait too long for diagnosis and treatment● We should be able to provide more services from sites within the borough e.g. ante-natal care, day surgery and more Consultant out-patient appointments
● There are difficulties in recruiting new doctors, nurses, therapists and clinical technicians, so we need to make best use of the skills of existing staff
New services are already transform-ing patients’ lives. For example, new technology is allowing Torfaen GPs to dramatically cut waiting times for heart
patients by making appointments direct from the surgery computer to see the heart specialist at County Hospital.
And under Torfaen’s Expert Patient Scheme, patients with long-term
conditions like diabetes and heart disease are being taught skills to help them to better understand and manage their own illnesses.
The changes are not about cutting services or saving money. We are planning to invest in new services, but we also need to ensure that we are making the effective use of existing land, buildings and staff to get the best value from what we already have and make improvements where this is necessary. This will ensure sustainability for the future.
The next step is to improve the range of health services in Torfaen so that in the future patients will not have to travel out of county for minor surgical procedures and services like ante-natal care.
Our objective is to provide first class health services across the whole of Torfaen, but we have to start somewhere, so we plan to focus first on the north of the borough.
There will be some changes ahead, but no decisions will be taken without talking to local people and getting your views. Of course, any developments will be in line with the Council’s Commu-nity and Regeneration Strategies.
Some of you will have attended one of the consultation meetings that have already been held, others may have writ-ten or emailed. Thank you for sharing your views and ideas with us. We have used these to shape our plans.
We’ll be continuing to consult with you over coming months as we shape services to meet current and future demands.
For further information, please con-tact Steve Parry, Torfaen Local Health Board, Block C, Mamhilad House, Mamhilad Park Estate, Pontypool NP4 0YP. Tel: 01495 332180. Email [email protected]
A public meeting will be held in March to discuss proposals for Blaenavon and similar events are planned later in the year for Cwmbran and Pontypool. Look out for posters and articles in the local press. You can also make your views known to Gwent Community Health Council, whose role is to properly reflect the views of the public in relation to health services.
Contact them in writing at Gwent CHC, Mamhilad House, Mamhilad Park Estate, Pontypool NP4 0XH or telephone 01495 740555 or 757600 or email [email protected]
Improving HealthServices in Torfaen
Photo from www.JohnBirdsall.co.uk
The Torfaen LHB approach Let us know
your views
Torfaen Adult & Community Learning Service
Make a New Year’s resolution to learn something new in 2006. Brighten up the dark winter evenings and dull winter days by learning something new. Whatever your interest there are a wide range of courses to enjoy with something for everyone.
Classes are informal and friendly and everyone can learn at their own pace. You can meet new people, have fun and make new friends. Course lengths vary from eight to 18 weeks and are delivered in day and evening classes plus day courses. Fees are approximately £1 per hour with concessions and Reach for IT courses are free.
A wide variety of traditional and non traditional courses are available in IT, web design, alternative therapies, arts & crafts, dance, cooking, garden-ing, general education & languages such as Welsh, Spanish and Greek. Other courses are arranged on demand throughout the year for first aid, first aid at work, sports medic and basic food hygiene.
Parents Plus
Parents Plus offers a wide range of free classes with free childcare if you are aged 16 and 64, living in Torfaen, unemployed, on any benefit or pension, or if you are working less than 16 hours each week.
We’re also trying something new. For the first time you will be able to study with your children (5+). Two early evening classes will allow learners
to bring their young family to classes such as painting and drawing and learning to play the guitar. Remember, these are free classes with free childcare. Family learning courses such as keeping up with the children, teaching talking and family numeracy. All of these courses also have a FREE Crèche.
TABS success
Torfaen Adult Basic Skills (TABS) offers free courses delivering essential skills. TABS students were successful in their GCSE exams this summer. Forty per cent of those who studied for GCSE Maths with TABS gained a “B” grade, the top grade possible for them. In English a number of students excelled by achieving “A” grades. Many students also find pre GCSE courses very useful to help their children with schoolwork. GCSEs can be studied over one or two years.
New courses are due to run in the New Year at various times and venues. For full details of courses ring either Pontypool CEC on 01495 762266 or Croesyceiliog CEC on 01633 485052 for more information or call the Torfaen Adult & Community Learning Service on Freephone 0800 783 7598.
Call freephone 0800 783 7598to discover more about the wide
range of course available
Learn something new in 2006 Public MeetingsThe meeting dates and times given below are correct at the time of publication. More information about public attendance at council meetings is available on our website www.torfaen.gov.uk. All meetings are held in the Civic Centre.
10 January 4pm Planning Committee12 January 3pm Extraordinary Council 17 January 2pm Members Services Working Party24 January 10.30am Cabinet25 January 10am Ethics and Standards Committee 2pm Scrutiny Co-ordinating Committee26 January 2pm Environment ,Economic Regeneration Development Overview & Scrutiny (O&S)31 January 10am Cabinet (Equalities) Sub Committee 5pm Council 1 February 2pm Housing & Community Safety O&S2 February 10am Audit Committee 2pm Education & Young People O&S7 February 4pm Planning Committee8 February 2pm Operational Services O&S9 February 2pm Social Services & Health O&S15 February 2pm Leisure and Young People O&S16 February 2pm Resources O&S28 February 10.30am Cabinet
Licensing Hearings are scheduled for every Monday morning and Thursday and take place if required. A Council Policy Development Seminar is scheduled for every Monday afternoon at 2pm. Contact Democratic Services on 01496 766081 for more information.
“As one of the four GP Board Members for Torfaen LHB, it is exciting to be a part of the drive forward to
modernise services, to improve health and health services within Torfaen.”
Dr Sion James (LHB GP Board member)
“Change is always worrying for people but we are aware that our surgery is already becoming too small for us
and limiting the services we can offer. This will become worse if nothing is done.”
