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Hello Spring Your multi award-winning magazine for Whitchurch, Llandaff and Llandaff North Leona Lewis: Why I love coming to Cardiff At the heart of the community News | People | Features | Competitions | History Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Issue 37 Mar/Apr ‘16 Pritchard: I'm doing 30 consecutive half-ironmans for charity Win tickets to WNO's World Première show

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Hello Spring

Your multi award-winning magazine for Whitchurch, Llandaff and Llandaff North

Leona Lewis:Why I love coming to Cardiff

At the heart of the community

News | People | Features | Competitions | History

Whitchurch and LlandaffLiving

Issue 37 Mar/Apr ‘16

Pritchard:I'm doing 30 consecutivehalf-ironmansfor charity

Win tickets to WNO's World Première show

What’s onContents3-4 News All the latest news5 Community Hub8 Why North Cardiff is great place to grow up What you told us10 From Llandaff North to Calais14 Cut and Dry: Former BBC Editor Harley Jones19 Competition Win tickets to the WNO's World Première of In Parenthesis20 Interview Matthew Pritchard faces a monumental challenge24 History A brief history of local schooling31 Views from Westminster Craig Williams MP discusses hot topics33 Pet Questions Your pet questions answered by Chris Troughton34 18 problems only dog lovers will understand Recognise any of these?38 Interview Leona Lewis on her Welsh connections

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors or omissions, or for any matter in any way arising from the publication of this material. Every effort has been made to contact any copyright holders. Rhiwbina Living is an independent, apolitical publication.

a: 222 Pantbach Road, Rhiwbina, Cardiff CF14 6AGt: 07772 081775 / 07974 022920w: www.livingmags.co.uke: [email protected] or [email protected]

Winners at the 2014 UK Independent

Magazine Awards

Next Issue deadline: 15th April 2016

Published 3rd May 2016

And in the blink of an eye - whoosh! Christmas has come and gone! While we still await a bit of sunshine and warmth, we've been out and about with our trusty camera and notepad to find out why North Cardiff is such a great place to bring up children. We'd like to thank everyone who stopped to chat to us. Find out what residents told us on pages 8 and 9. On page 10, we hear a touching story from a Cardiff group who headed to Calais to help with the humanitarian cause there. This issue, we were delighted to speak to former BBC editor and former Llandaff resident, Harley Jones. His story from amateur film-maker to setting up both educational institutions and community projects is well worth a read on page 14. We spoke to X Factor winner Leona Lewis about her forth-coming visit to Cardiff and her Welsh roots. We also met up with former Glantaf student Matthew Pritchard who is now known for his appearances on MTV. He's set himself a huge physical and emotional challenge throughout March with the aim of raising £100,000 for charity. We caught up with him in training to find out why he drives him to push himself so hard. His inspirational story can be found on page 20. If you're a dog-lover (and we know

North Cardiff is a place of dog-lovers!), you'll probably recognise some of the problems that only dog owners will know on page 34. On page 33, local vet Chris Troughton answers your pet queries while on page 37, local gardener Kevin Revell gives you the best advice on shrubs that do well in the more shady days of spring. Last but not least, we're absolutely thrilled to have tickets to a Welsh National Opera world première to give away. Find out how you can get your hands on them on page 19. Once again, we'd urge you to support our advertisers who help make our magazines possible. Please mention that you have seen their adverts in Whitchurch and Llandaff Living. Happy Easter!

Danielle & Patric Editors

Welcome / Croeso

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Monday 7th - Friday 11th MarchWhitchurch Hospital Historical Society Exhibition

Saturday 12th March 1pmThe Greatest Llandaff North Jumble Sale Ever!2nd Llandaff Scout Hall, Belle Vue Crescent, Llandaff North

Monday 14th March 7pmPACT Meeting Ararat Church, Philog, Whitchurch

Saturday 9th April 10:30amFun Run to support Autism PuzzlesRhiwbina Recreational Club.

Contact Jayne Cowan for details - [email protected] or 07970 013332

Sunday 17th April 7pmCurry Half and Laugh - in aid of the 2nd Llandaff ScoutsLlandaff North RSSC

Tuesday 19th April 7pmNeighbourhood Watch AGMWhitchurch Rugby Club, Samuels Crescent, Whitchurch

Saturday 23rd April Cardiff 2 Calais Charity Ball, St David's Hotel, Cardiff

Second Llandaff Scouts look to secure their futureLlandaff North A Llandaff North scout group has launched an ambitious bob-a-job campaign to raise £250,000 to buy a local church. The Second Llandaff Scout Group is hoping to buy Christchurch Methodist Church/URC in Belle Vue Crescent to provide a long-term base and secure the future of the group. The Church is selling off its land, which means that the scout group will have to move unless they can raise the money by the end of this year. Donations can be made at www.givey.com/saveourscoutgroup

NEWS

“Our scout hall

is being sold for housing so the

group will close unless we can raise

the money to buy our Scout Hall.

Llandaff's new Memorial Hall will be an asset to the local community

Llandaff Work is underway to rebuild the Memorial Hall in Llandaff in a £2.2m investment project by the Cathedral School. Following the acquisition of the building and consultation with the local community, the Cathedral School is in the process of rebuilding a multi-purpose hall for its younger pupils and to share with the local community on a not-for-profit basis. The new Memorial Hall will be used during the school day as a dining space, gym and performance/assembly hall by the Cathedral School. Outside of school hours, it will be available as a venue for clubs and meetings, such as birthday parties, wedding receptions, stay and play and for local dance/theatre groups. With a capacity of 150 seats, theatre style, bookings for the facility will be managed by the Cathedral School

Finance Office. Work began on site just before Christmas. The total development time is expected to be 44 weeks.Headmaster, Mr Stephen Morris said: “The Cathedral School is very pleased to be able to restore the Memorial Hall to its original use, a resource for the local community. “The new Memorial Hall will keep its name, something the school feels very strongly about. Given to commemorate the sacrifices during World War II, a suitable memorial stone will be placed in the building upon completion. “We very much hope that once opened in September, the new building will provide a fantastic resource for both the school and the local community.”

Council's North Cardiff 'garden city' plan begins to take shape

Llandaff Memorial Hall rebuild gets underway

Llandaff Up to 300 homes could be built on 24 acres of land south of Radyr. It follows news that the first 630 homes of the new Plasdwr 'garden city' development near Danescourt

were approved by councillors at a meeting in February. The new plans could result in a total of 300 extra homes being built on fields next to a nature conservation site and ancient woodland. Local councillor Graham Thomas said he was concerned that the application did not give enough consideration to infrastructure including transport and school places for youngsters. The Council plan to build 7,000 homes to the north west of the city.

Green-graded 'top tier' schools announced Cardiff North The Welsh Assembly Government has announced its colour-coded schools across Wales. Several North Cardiff schools were coded green, meaning that they were deemed to be effective. Schools included Tongwynlais Primary School, Ysgol Gymraeg Melin Gruffydd and Whitchurch Primary.

Artist’s impression of the new site

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4

Velindre NHS Trust, which runs Velindre Cancer Centre in Whitchurch, is working with Local Health Boards, patients, carers, the community and the voluntary sector on an ambitious new programme which aims to improve the quality of services provided and the outcomes for patients by:• Reducing the number of

people getting cancer• Reducing the time taken for

diagnosis of cancer• Treating patients closer to

their homes where possible• Improving the treatment for

patients with cancer using the best clinical techniques and technology

• Developing a satellite radiotherapy unit within South East Wales which improves access for patients

• Accelerating the exciting research and development activities to improve care and building a new, state-of-the-art cancer centre, at a cost of more than £200m, here in Whitchurch

A programme team based at Velindre Cancer Centre is currently working on the plans. Two business cases will be submitted to the Welsh Government during the summer of 2016 seeking support to proceed with the programme. This year marks Velindre’s 60th anniversary so the plans are especially timely. “We’re currently working on the detail of the improved set of services with a wide range of people who have a view on

what they should look like in the future, together with our NHS, public service and voluntary sector partners,” said Programme Director Carl James. “Our aim is to offer many of the services currently carried out at Velindre closer to patients’ homes where safe and possible. We are working with our Local Health Boards to identify the type of services that can be delivered locally and the best locations for them. “This will be supported by the development of a new Velindre Cancer Centre in Cardiff which will continue to provide a range of highly specialist treatments. We believe this will enable more patients to access services within their community and better outcomes, such as increased survival, to be achieved.” Initial work suggests that a number of services currently provided by Velindre within Local Health Boards could be increased. Patients have been taking part in workshops to design the new service. 44 year old Lisa Harvey, who was treated for breast cancer at Velindre, said: “I’ve been really pleased to be part of this. I think treatment and care closer to home is important for people still trying to work and hold down jobs while they’re undergoing cancer treatment.” If the changes go ahead, it would mean that more treatment time would be freed up at the new Velindre Cancer Centre. This is required because more people will get cancer in the future and need more complex

treatments. The good news is that more and more of us are surviving for longer. Tom Crosby, the clinical lead for the programme, and a Velindre consultant, said: “We really want you to have as much knowledge as possible about the future plans. “The Transforming Cancer Services programme is all about co-production. That means equalising the relationship between clinical staff, patients and the public. We know how many patients are keen to step forward, take responsibility and give something back after their treatment.” Velindre Cancer Centre will be holding a number of open evenings where the developing plans for the new site, and the programme as a whole, will be discussed. The first is on Monday, March 14th, 2016 at Velindre Cancer Centre, Velindre Rd, Whitchurch, Cardiff CF14 2TL. It will start at 6pm and is expected to last for about an hour. Other sessions will be advertised on the Transforming Cancer Services pages of the Velindre website: www.velindrecc.wales.nhs.uk/introduction If you’d like to come, please give Catherine Currier a call on 029 2061 5888 x4640 Or email [email protected] You can ask for more information, or invite the programme team to come and talk to your organisation by contacting them via email.

It's all change at Velindre HospitalVelindre Hospital is about to undergo a large programme of improvements to raise standards of care and treatment

COMMUNITY HUB

A spate of burglaries in Whitchurch has left shop owners facing misery and unexpected costs. Raiders have targeted many well-known shops, including Cardiff Bed Centre and the Hearing and Mobility shop, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage. Whitchurch councillor Jonathan Evans, chairman of Cardiff West Neighbourhood Management Committee, said: “As councillors, we liaise closely with the police and community organisations on such issues. We also meet regularly with police, council officers and partners at Cardiff West Neighbourhood Management Committee to analyse local crime trends in a systematic, evidence-based way and together develop strategies to reduce the risk of further offences being committed. “Rest assured we will look closely at recent crime incidents and analyse whether they represent a wider upward trend in commercial burglaries.” Local trader Tom Champ from The Play Loft told Living Magazines: "The key is to keep working together and to share information and resources. Technology has moved on greatly these last few years so we'll be looking to increase CCTV coverage in the village. We have a meeting of the PCSOs and traders arranged so we'll look forward to putting some plans into action." A 31-year-old man from Roath has been charged with burglary and three motoring offences. He has been released on police bail and will appear before magistrates in March.

Our Edwardian ancestors knew that education was a cornerstone of a civilised society and that a community library was an essential ingredient of that vision. Thus in 1904, with money donated by Scottish-American philanthropist, Andrew Carnegie, Whitchurch Library was built - one of three Carnegie libraries in the City. Now a Grade II listed building, the Library sits in a public garden behind the village War Memorial, looking out at the rear of the public park. Carnegie’s gift was conditional on the local authority providing a site, paying the staff and maintaining the library, not simply relying on private donations. The Library is still owned, funded and managed by the Council. Awen@theLibrary has been formed to protect this heritage and maintain the Carnegie philosophy of continuing public funding and management. Awen will also raise funds to promote greater community use of the building and turn it into a cultural hub for all sections of the community - arts for all, not just the pursuit of the privileged. An early ambition is mobile bookcases so that space can be made for events such as exhibitions, musical events and talks. Awen is democratically organised with voting members who elect trustees and has applied for

charitable status. Membership is open to persons living, studying, working or undertaking voluntary activity within Whitchurch and Tongwynlais and the surroundings at £5 per year. Members meet monthly to voice opinions and ideas when the trustees also report back. Awen will be selling homemade cakes and tea in the Library on World Book Day, March 5th. Come along to find out more about Awen. Email [email protected] or ring and leave a message on 07811 406751.

Robert Jones

We always love to hear from our readers. Email us or write to us! Break ins

causing misery for

traders Arts Eglwys

Newydd Whitchurch: a new beginning built on solid foundations

What's On?Having recently moved to Whitchurch, I am finding your magazine very interesting and helpful. Would it be a good idea to introduce a Coming Events column so that societies, schools and

churches could use your magazine for that purpose?Zoe PearceWhitchurch

Editor's ReplyAbsolutely- we do try to do this but rely on information being

forthcoming and space available in the magazine. If you have any information you would like us to consider, please feel free to pass this to us. We can also promote any non-for-profit events for free on our website and across our social media platforms. Hope you are settling into Whitchurch!

5

Awen@theLibrary will promote greater community use of Whitchurch Library

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Simon: We've lived in Llandaff North and Whitchurch. There's plenty to do for younger ones around here and there are some great pubs around here for the parents too. Rachel: We're bringing up two little ones here in Whitchurch. The area is very friendly with lots of parks and great schools. There's also great access to the city centre itself .

Peter: Whitchurch is a very good place to grow up if you are looking to excel at sport. You only have to look at some of the talent that has come out of our village - Sam Warburton, Gareth Bale and Geraint Thomas - all world-class athletes who have excelled in their chosen field.Sheila: I agree with Peter. Our daughter used to go to Whitchurch High School and she went on to play hockey for Glamorgan. The area has great facilities for young sports people - not only within the schools but outside of them as well.

North Cardiff is a great place to live, not

only for grown-ups but for the younger ones too. Here's what you said.

We love the fact that

everything we need is here plus we can hop on a bus into town.

Our colleges and schools are great too.

Dylan & Abby

Why North Cardiff is a great place to grow up

Whitchurch

8

This is the place we wanted to start our familyMy husband and I moved to Llandaff from Bristol seven years ago as I'm from this area. I grew up here and always loved the fact that even though we felt that we were in a city, we were just minutes away from the countryside as well. When we moved back here, we started our little family and haven't looked back. For our children, we really couldn't have asked for better schools. They've made some great friends and there's always something going on to keep them occupied. As for us parents, we've got lots of places to chill out when we get a minute - pubs, restaurants and even walks in the park. All depending on if we can get a babysitter obviously!

Dan and Sarah

I grew up in Llandaff North and went to Hawthorn Infants and Junior Schools. I have very fond memories of going on long walks in the area and the place still has that lovely close-knit feel which is important when you are growing up

We've lived in Llandaff North for 46 years and brought up our daughter here. The sense of freedom that the kids had and the real sense of community is why we thought Llandaff North would be a great place to bring up a little one - and it still is!

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“CherylAndrea

YolanDa BrownWednesday 23 MarchDydd Mercher 23 Mawrth

Ray MearsWednesday 16 MarchDydd Mercher 16 Mawrth

Puccini’s ToscaWednesday 30 MarchDydd Mercher 30 Mawrth

RiverdanceFriday 1 - Sunday 3 AprilDydd Gwener 1 - Dydd Sul 3 Ebrill

Richard HerringTuesday 12 AprilDydd Mawrth 12 Ebrill

Music of the KnightsThursday 21 AprilDydd Iau 21 Ebrill

King of Pop starring NaviFriday 4 MarchDydd Gwener 4 Mawrth

Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra - Vote OvertureFriday 18 MarchDydd Gwener 18 Mawrth

Whitchurch & Llandaff Living Issue 37_Layout 1 01/02/2016 11:21 Page 1

A team of volunteers from Cardiff left on the morning of Wednesday, January 27th, for a four-day trip to take badly-needed supplies and medical care to refugees in the camps near Calais, northern France. The aid journey was inspired and organised by Dr. Emma Short from Llandaff North, who works as a pathology registrar at the University Hospital of Wales, and Dr. Lucinda Winckworth, a paediatrician from London. They travelled with Dr. Iris Egner, aresearch coordinator in the Division of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University, NormanGettings from Llandaff North, who works in Welsh Labour’s Press office, and Marc Tilley,a fluent French speaker from Tongwynlais. The team headed there to provide basic medicalcare for people living in the refugee camps. They also helped to sort and distribute donations such as clothes, sleeping bags and food. The group had originally been planning to travel in Emma’s estate

car, but the level of contributions was so high that the group had to find a larger vehicle. Fortunately,Charter Vehicle Hire, part of the James & Jenkins Group in Llandaff North, came to the rescue with an eight-seater minibus with lots of space in the back. The company also offered to cover insurance costs on the vehicle for the trip. Dr Emma Short said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by people’s generosity, with contributions of warm clothing, sleeping bags, blankets and lots of other items that will be really useful. We took out basic medical supplies, such as cold and flu treatments, cotton wool balls and tissues.” The group’s efforts have been supported by their network of family, friends and colleagues. Cardiff North Labour Party has also provided financial support for the journey. Steve Jenkins of Bridgend raised £2000 with an online crowd funder and used the money to

buy 50 sleeping bags, foil blankets, wind-up torches and outdoor equipment. As soon as he heard of the group’s journey, he offered all the materials he had bought. Dr Lucinda Winckworth said: “Conditions in the camps are awful. Thousands of men,

women and children are living in an environment which we can’t begin to imagine. We wanted to go there as human beings to help fellow human beings.” Norman Gettings added: “Going there has changed my outlook on my life. These are people in desperate, squalid

conditions. They are cold, wet and hungry. We just need to take the politics out of it and ensure that they have warm shelter and are fed while the authorities deal with the situation. "What I can't get my head around is the fact that this is all happening in a supposedly civilised country, not too far from our own. Not one country has come forward and taken responsibility for helping these people. There are kids there, some without anyone at all - what will become of them? That's anyone's guess." There is a fundraising ball being held on 23rd April at St David's Hotel and a Facebook page has also been set up.

A World Apart: from Llandaff North to CalaisLast month, a team from Llandaff North set out to help the humanitarian crisis in Calais. What they saw there brought them to tears

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King of Pop starring NaviFriday 4 MarchDydd Gwener 4 Mawrth

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Nostalgia. Sat among his walls of editing machines in his home office, former

BBC editor and film-maker Harley Jones has a smile on his face. “People love it,” he says “They can't get enough of it." Walking into Harley's editing suite is like stepping into a living museum display. VHS players, 8mm players, reels and posters are all carefully laid out - and all with a purpose. “I’ve done this all my life. I’m still doing it now in my 70s. I don’t think I’ll ever stop doing it. “I knew exactly what I wanted

to do when I was a kid. I wanted to be in film and television right from the very start. “When I was a youngster, I was already making films as an amateur. I hired some young actors and with a 16mm camera, we headed off around Cardiff and the Valleys to make these mini-dramas. It was all a bit of harmless fun but ultimately,

they were my passport to a professional career in film. “I came to Cardiff from Bridgend Grammar School. I started work at TWW (ITV Wales) as a trainee before moving to the BBC as an

Harley Jones has worked

with pioneers of British film

and television. And he’s still going strong.

Cut and Dry

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Assistant Film Editor. In those days, it was all about film reels and a pair of scissors. At the age of 18, I was the youngest editor at the BBC at that time. I guess I was in the right place at the right time. “I was lucky that I worked for John Ormond. He was a director and producer of documentary films, including studies of Ceri Richards, Kyffin Williams and Dylan Thomas. You learn a lot from people like him. “I then met my now-wife Viv at the BBC and we were invited to work for Scottish TV at Thomson House in Cardiff ’s city centre. It was a funny old place, full of corridors and offices. “I worked with John Grierson, who was one of TV’s true pioneers. He was the first person to coin the phrase ‘documentary’ in 1926, and in 1929, made the film Drifters. In 1935, he was producer on the classic film Night Mail, a documentary about a London, Midland and Scottish Railway (LMS) mail train from London to Scotland. The poet WH Auden and composer Benjamin Britten also collaborated on the film.” Working with such talent taught Harley a lot about film-making. He, in turn, was then able to pass on his knowledge and skills to others. “I set up the first film school in Wales, in what was known then as the Newport School of Art. I spent 18 years there. It will be celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Film editing has come a long way in 50 years. These days, you can film and edit everything on your mobile phone. You have to remember that TV was an expensive medium back in the sixties. We had to carry a lot of equipment around when we were making films back then. I still have those films and some of them have been selected to feature in the Welsh Film Archives.” The art of editing is still an art that has to be mastered. “To make a successful documentary, you need to gain the confidence of your subject. You need to forge relationships with them and be friendly to them. “You also need to remember that as a documentary maker, you

don’t work to a tight script. You go into it with ideas and it’s then left to the editor to create the storylines that the audience can follow.” Always learning, Harley moved on from the film school to go freelance. “I became an independent producer for S4C for a while. Not being a Welsh speaker, I had to take an intensive course which was quite challenging but it all paid off. We made a diverse range of programmes - things from Welsh choirs, narrow gauge railways - anything that was of Welsh national interest. “You’d be surprised at the amount of talent that’s hidden, even in our villages. Even along the street where I live, there are working film makers and producers. Until you start scratching the surface, you don’t really know the kind of people are nearby." After living in Llandaff for over 20 years, Harley’s passion has spilled over into community life elsewhere. He has played an active role with other volunteers in setting up a community cinema in Rhiwbina where he now lives. “Monico Memories has really taken off in Rhiwbina. We’re still feeling our way a little bit but it’s great to see that the film industry is still as popular as it used to be. We went to visit a similar project down in Hampshire recently and they’re pulling in twice as many people as we are but we’re not

about big crowds. For a start, we can’t find anywhere bigger than Canolfan Beulah but that’s fine with us because we’re finding it a great venue. “We originally set up to showcase specialised films but lots of people are wanting to see mainstream films. We’re still working on our programming but we think that we’ll soon be where we want to be.” The Monico cinema of course, was once a landmark of North Cardiff. For decades, it entertained the people of the city and the valleys. Its name still trips off the tongues of locals, and its demise in the early 2000s was seen by some as a travesty. The Monico cinema on Pantbach Road will forever be etched into the minds of film-goers both old and not-so old. As for Harley, he’s still doing what he does best through his own company, Celtic Films. “I still do a certain amount of editing and I also do a lot of transferring old film reels onto DVD. “It’s an absolute joy to still be working with film. I’m so lucky to be able to do something that I love.”

Harley in the BBC editing department in 1962

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Llandaff Theatre Company began life in 1964 as Llandaff Musical Society. Since then, the Company has produced at least one full show each year, together with many smaller scale concerts. In recent years, there have been productions of well known Gilbert and Sullivan favourites such as The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance and HMS Pinafore as well as many well known musicals and pantomimes. Recent productions have included Calamity Jane, Pickwick and an entirely new production of A Christmas Carol at the Weston Studio in the Wales Millennium Centre. "We were the first company in Wales to perform Titanic the Musical, which involved the use of a hydraulic deck which tilted to simulate the increasing angle of

listing of the doomed ship.In the last couple of years, we have performed some musical comedies namely The Reunion, telling the story of a group of 5th formers during their final year in school and then 20 years on in ‘friends reunited’ mode; and The Farndale Townswomens Guild Production of the Mikado," said Mike Walsh. The Company rehearses mainly on Mondays at All Saints Church Hall, Llandaff North. The Company has recently decided to branch out from its former staple diet of musicals and operettas to attempt to stage occasional straight plays. The Company also aims to perform in venues in the locality, if possible. The next production is a concert which will be performed in April comprising of a revue of musical theatre numbers of the 30s, 40s and 50s. The dates for your diary

are 22nd and 23rd April and the venue is Bethel Church Hall, Whitchurch. This will be followed by a musical production in the autumn and a pantomime early in 2017. The Company is always keen to attract new members. "Whether you’ve never set foot on the stage before, only dabbled in high school, or are a professional, you are welcome. We keep everything relaxed and friendly. "If you’d rather help out backstage, then there is a place for you too. If you love lighting, are satisfied by stage managing, delighted by directing or would perhaps be pleased with prompting, we have something for you." Contact Chris Randall (07526 618502) for more information or post on the Company's Facebook page.

Treading the boards with Llandaff Theatre Company

Welsh National Opera will commemorate WWI and the centenary of the Battle of the Somme with a world première of a new opera commissioned to mark the Company’s 70th birthday. In Parenthesis is acclaimed British composer Iain Bell’s adaptation of the epic poem by poet and writer David Jones. This new opera provides a unique narrative of war, rich in expressive musical quality; it depicts a deeply moving account of the fighting and heavy losses sustained by

the Royal Welch Fusiliers. Directed by David Pountney and conducted by Carlo Rizzi, WNO Conductor Laureate, this period production is both an evocation and a commemoration of the events of the Somme. Following its world première at Wales Millennium Centre on May 13th, the work will tour to Birmingham and to London, as part of WNO’s annual residency at the Royal Opera House. A special performance at the Royal Opera House in July will coincide with the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the Battle of the Somme.

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19

Among the queues of people waiting to get into Cardiff International

Pool, Matthew Pritchard cuts an imposing figure. Hood up, and keeping himself to himself, the creator and former star of MTV's Dirty Sanchez is on a mission. Throughout March, Pritchard will push himself to his absolute physical and emotional limits. And he's trying to figure out why he's doing it. "I'm thinking back to my childhood in Cardiff to see if I can find out why I keep pushing

myself like this. My early years probably played a big part in it all. I remember one of my early schools pretty well because it had mould growing on the walls. I also remember getting a battering from one of the teachers there for doing something wrong. You wouldn’t get that these days. "I spent 5 years at Glantaf in Llandaff North. My only good memories there were of jumping out of windows with my friend Rhodri O’Neill and exploring the end of the field down by the Taff Weir opposite the Rowing Club. I

wasn’t very good in class because all I wanted to do was become a stuntman. I skateboarded constantly too and really enjoyed it. Back in the day though, when I told my teachers that I wanted to become a stuntman, they just looked at me stupid and I was told that thinking like that would get me nowhere. But I became a professional skateboarder, made a living out of it, and from that, clinched my own TV show. You could say that I succeeded in my goals. I never got injured at school although I did almost

Pritch

Every day throughout March, Matthew Pritchard will complete a half-ironman event for charity. He tells Living Magazines why.

20

21

break my jaw once. I passed there recently and noticed how high the windows were. I wouldn't do it now!" Putting on these stunt shows for the other pupils foreshadowed Pritch's career in adulthood. After leaving school, Pritch became a skateboarder professionally before TV beckoned. "Then came along Dirty Sanchez. My bank account filled up with money and I found myself with the world at my feet. Don’t get me wrong – I had a whale of a time and partied hard but I did lots of things I shouldn't have." But there came a time when Pritch had to take stock of his life and where he was heading. “When you look in the mirror and there’s a yellow face looking back at you, that’s when you realise that you have to change - and for the better. It all started when I decided to do the Cardiff half-marathon. A full marathon then followed, including two in London. I did one of them wearing nothing but a mankini. The chafing was awful. But I always wanted to do better, go further. "The next event was a run from John O’Groats to Land's End. Forest Gump had nothing on me. I was running 34 miles a day and the nearer I got to my goal, the harder it became. By the time I was finished, I didn’t even have the energy to drink the champagne that had been given to me.

"After the event, I went into a deep depression. I didn’t need to go to the doctors just to be told that it was depression – I knew it was depression! I think it was the fact that I had nothing to work towards once I'd completed my objectives. "I then got involved with the IronMan UK events. These triathlons consist of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bicycle ride and a 26.2-mile marathon. All in one go - and without stopping for a break. There’s one up in North Wales which is twice as long and involves going up Snowdon." In recent years Pritch has turned his hand to many of these extreme challenges to raise money for a variety of worthy causes, which has ultimately led to the creation of Pritchard's £100,000 Challenge. “If I stop and think about why I do it, I think it goes back to my school days. I was always a little bit different to the other kids, and as a result, I got bullied a lot. I was always told that I couldn’t achieve things and I guess that this is my response to them – and to myself, that I can." This March, Pritchard will be attempting to complete a '70.3' Half Ironman event for 30 consecutive days. '70.3' refers to the total distance in miles covered, consisting of a 1.2 mile swim, a 56 mile cycle and 13.1 miles of running. That's 70.3 miles every day for 30 days. "The good thing about doing this

is that I can eat what I want to pile on the calories. I'll be starting the event on St. David's Day and ending it on my birthday. I want to push my body to the limit and take it as far as I can go. You will never know what you are capable of unless you take yourself that far. "The aim is to raise £100,000 for charity. One of my main sponsors is Peter Alan estate agents and I'll be visiting their stores across South Wales every day. "Training has gone well so far apart from getting knocked off my bike by a car and breaking my coccyx. I'm ok though. The people at the International Pool have been fantastic. They have given us access to the pool throughout the challenge and have been extremely supportive."

You can keep tabs on Pritch as he takes on his challenge and make donations at www.pritchards100kchallenge.com.Donations will be going to Tŷ Hafan Hospice amongst other charities.

Pritch

I did a London Marathon

wearing nothing but a mankini.

The chafing was awful.

Photographs by Patric Morgan

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Until fairly recent times, schooling in North Cardiff was a function of the church, working independently of the state. It may be assumed that educational facilities provided at Llandaff over hundreds of years were freely available as a right of the parishioners of Whitchurch. Scholastic functions were exercised in Llandaff before the Norman conquest. It was in 983AD that Bishop Bledri ordered that every priest set up a school in connection with his church. It is very likely that it served the purpose of religious teaching and this policy was continued by his successor, Bishop Joseph. Throughout the 10th and 11th centuries, it is therefore likely that education continued under the banner of the church. In the 12th century, the famous Geoffrey of Monmouth is supposed to have been associated with a teaching capacity at Llandaff Cathedral. One thing that is definitely known is that in about 1470, Sir David Mathew left money to establish a chantry, and also 'to keepe a free Scole for certeyn pore children to the number of XX'. The school was in existence for more than a century but in all likelihood, was wiped out during the reign of Edward VI. Numerous entries in the Llandaff Act Books occur during the 17th century. In 1638, there is a record of a contract for glazing the 'school house'. In 1662, Thomas Jones BA was 'Junior Vicar Choral' and in addition to his ministering to the chapelry of Whitchurch, he also conducted a school for 12 boys at Llandaff.

There is evidence of the continued existence of the Llandaff school in the 18th century. In 1716, William Morgan was elected 'Master of the Free School' and in 1719, Browne Willis mentions the existence of a school in a room over the Cathedral Chapter House. Records also exist relating to the rebuilding of the school house in 1727. In all probability, the Llandaff school (or schools connected with the cathedral) would have been maintained as part of the ecclesiastical organisation, right down to the setting up of the National Schools in the Cathedral village in 1817. It seems safe to assume that the facilities there were available to poor children from Whitchurch as well as other hamlets in the Parish of Llandaff. It is likely however, that such facilities covered the needs of a small proportion of the children of the well-to-do parishioners and were probably taught to read and write, if nothing more, in small proprietary schools carried on usually in private houses, each scholar paying a small weekly fee. Due to the heavy influence of the church, by 1761, no less than 3,495 'charity schools' were in existence. These schools, founded by Anglican clergyman, the Rev Griffith Jones, were there to teach men, women and children 'to read God's holy word in the native British language'. By the mid 1700s, the Welsh Sunday School movement came to the fore as the most potent educational agency in the area. Thomas Charles of Bala, who led the movement, concentrated on the task of

organising Sunday Schools for the religious education of adults as well as children. The idea was mainly connected with Methodism, but other sects copied, including the Anglican Church. Many of the early Sunday Schools were held in private dwellings or barns and were to go on to play an important part in the teaching and reading of the Welsh Bible. Tribute is paid in the Reports of the Education Commissioners of 1847 to the valuable work of the Welsh Sunday Schools. In about 1780, the Quaker ironmasters of Melingriffith, who had a great regard for the well-being of their workers, seem to have taken steps to meet the educational needs of the employees' children. One can only deduce this from miscellaneous entries in the works accounts since no formal records exist. An entry of 1786 records repairs by work artizans to a school building, and the membership roll of a local friendly society started in the same year is headed by one 'Edward Williams, Schoolmaster'. Edward Williams lived in Llandaff in this period, and one would like to believe that he was the Melingriffith schoolmaster mentioned in the records. There is, alas, no firm evidence to support this. Early in the 19th century, the need for a more regular system of education came to be felt - and as a result of the work of the educational pioneers, Dr Bell and Joseph Lancaster, two school-promoting organisations came into existence. In 1833, state aid

Schooling in North Cardiff: A Brief History

24

for the two societies was made available for the creation of new buildings. Both National and British schools provided a wider secular curriculum than the old scholastic agencies; writing and arithmetic as well as other subjects were taught. By 1870, the publically-maintained Board Schools first came into existence. Teachings of scripture gradually became less of a primary subject on the curriculum. A controversy over education and the Welsh language broke out in 1847 and stimulated a debate about education in the area. In the 1850s, steps were taken to set up a National School in Whitchurch. Mr TW Brooker, the Melingriffith Works proprietor, was the leading spirit in this movement, and seems to have advanced the cause by way of a loan of more than £1,000 to help erect a building. The site selected for the structure was part of a garden in Tyn-y-pwll Road. Arrangements seem to have been made for the deduction of wages paid to the employees at Melingriffith Works of a weekly sum of twopence in respect of each of their children attending the National School. There were other private schools both at Whitchurch and Tongwynlais around these times but by the 1880s, the Melingriffith Works were passing through some troublesome times. Some of the ironmasters left the area and their successors took little interest in local civic affairs. They were also faced with financial difficulties and ultimately, the National School was handed to the new School Board in 1884. From 1891, following the Education Act, all public elementary education became free to all. During this time, Whitchurch was experiencing considerable population growth and extended school facilities became necessary. In 1884, the National School was developed and re-arranged. In 1899, another school at the Hawthorn in Llandaff North was created. Records show that equipment was not of a high standard and at the turn of the century, facing

increasing population growth, the Glamorgan Education Committee had to face up to a large building programme. Post-war development at Whitchurch proceeded at a very rapid rate. Rhiwbina Mixed and Infants School opened in 1929 under the mastership of Mr T Pugsley. In 1934, 21 acres of land were acquired for a large secondary school in Whitchurch. The building was opened on November 17th, 1937. Mr AJ Richard was appointed Headmaster. Even so, the new school proved inadequate to meet the needs and a proportion of pupils requiring secondary education had to attend Penarth. Extensions of Whitchurch School were delayed by the outbreak of war in 1939. Whitchurch High School came into being in 1968, following the government circular of 1965, which replaced the existing tripartite system with comprehensive education. The new comprehensive school was created through a merger of the well established Whitchurch Grammar School, and Whitchurch County Secondary School, a secondary modern school. Both were under the control of Glamorgan County Council until the beginning of 1967, when Whitchurch became amalgamated as a suburb of the City of Cardiff. The former, based on Penlline Road, became the Upper School site, and the latter, on Glan-y-Nant Terrace, the lower school. Like its predecessors, the school was

co-educational and catered for a broad catchment area centred on the suburbs of Whitchurch, Rhiwbina and Tongwynlais in the northern part of Cardiff. The comprehensive school was initially run by Cardiff County Borough until the local government reform of 1974, which included Whitchurch in the new county of South Glamorgan. In 1996, the school reverted to Cardiff County Council, which became a unitary authority. As of September 2011, the school has been granted foundation status by the Welsh Assembly, following controversy over the local authority's proposals to reduce the school's intake. According to the school's last Estyn report, Whitchurch High School is currently the largest in Wales with 2,400 pupils.

Adapted from Edgar Chappell's Old Whitchurch (copyright ownership unobtainable)

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Our AGM was held on 24th November and at the AGM, we welcomed Mr Mike Baker who is standing at this year's election for the post of Police and Crime Commissioner for South Wales. In the lead up to Christmas, we took part in three Operation Perception exercises using a South Wales Police Mobile Police Station in the first two events - one on 2nd December in Whitchurch, then on 9th December in Loudoun Square, Butetown. Both of these events were very successful indeed. When I launched the new watch in Heol Berry, Gwaelod-y-Garth earlier in 2015, I had tremendous help from Hafod Housing Association who also sponsored three of the new Neighbourhood Watch signs. As a result of this, I was asked to take part in a photo shoot with Hafod Housing for inclusion in their tenants' magazine - so more publicity for Neighbourhood Watch! On January 22nd, I was invited to represent Neighbourhood Watch at the Early Intervention Summit which was held at the Millennium Stadium and had been organised by Mr Alun Michael, PCC in conjunction with South Wales Police. Although it was a long day, it was very worthwhile and very interesting with various speakers, including Alun Michael himself, talking about many subjects. Some advance notice for you regarding our next General Meeting. This will be held on Tuesday 19th April at the Whitchurch Rugby Club, Samuels Crescent and will start at 7pm. Our speaker will be from British Transport Police and I would urge you all to make a special effort to attend as you will be in for a very interesting evening. I have heard this presentation before and was very impressed with it. As I mentioned in the last issue, I have attended several meetings in the Bridgend area relating to the launch of the South Wales Police Compact with the Third Sector and am pleased to inform you that, at the first meeting at Queens Road Police Station, Bridgend on Tuesday 26th January, I have been appointed as a member of the Steering Group to represent Neighbourhood Watch throughout South Wales which is quite an honour. Compact is a partnership agreement between the Police and Crime Commissioner for South Wales, the Chief Constable for South Wales and the local Third Sector partners as represented by the seven County Voluntary Councils. Its aim is for the shared objective of building and maintaining healthy communities across South Wales through strengthening joint and partnership working. If you are interested in setting up a Neighbourhood Watch group in your road, please contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team or call our office on 02920 527301.

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Neighbourhood Watch

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Craig Williams

It may only be early spring but already 2016 has been a busy year. A number of businesses in the village have been in touch with me following several break-ins and I know that some residential garages have also been targeted. I am meeting with Cardiff ’s Chief Superintendent Davies and will be raising a number of issues including crime in Whitchurch. I would urge Living Magazines readers to double check that their cars, doors, windows and garages are locked and if they see anything suspicious to ring 101 (or 999 if it is an emergency). Your Whitchurch Police team will offer crime prevention advice to anybody concerned that their property may be at risk. The Local Development Plan process has now concluded but the planning inspector disappointingly ruled that a proposed Green Belt covering land north of the M4 and Tongwynlais should only be designated as a Green Wedge. As a result, the protection of this important backdrop to the city is only for 10 years and I believe this threatens the long-term future of North Cardiff. I was delighted by the news that Llanishen Reservoir has been acquired by Welsh Water. This is as a result of the activities of the Residents Action Group (RAG) and I pay tribute to their exceptional campaign over many years. Whilst there is now optimism about the future of the site, the Llanishen reservoir needs refilling so that a range of sport accessible to all Cardiff residents can return to the water. In Westminster, I have called for the honours scheme to be extended so that community groups can be nominated. Volunteer groups put many hours into their community and I believe that a group should be eligible for recognition. Look out for a future House of Commons debate on this issue! At the end of 2015, I visited McLays in Longwood Drive with Treasury Minister David Gauke MP. We were both impressed by the factory and know the importance of businesses such as these to the local economy. I now have a community noticeboard outside my Rhiwbina office, so if there are any community events you would like to advertise, please contact me on [email protected] Can I take this opportunity to wish you a Happy Easter.

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I’ve heard rumours of a nasty disease called Alabama Rot which can be fatal for dogs. Is it here in Wales and what precautions can we take? 'Alabama Rot' is a newly recognised disease of dogs of unknown cause. It was first seen a few years ago in the USA, in greyhounds. In the last few years, cases have been recognised in dogs of many breeds in the UK. It has been called New Forest Syndrome in the UK as most cases have been from that area of the country, but some have come from far distant areas. One case has been recorded in Monmouthshire, but none in the Cardiff area. The symptoms of Alabama Rot include painful skin sores on the legs, belly or mouth. These are rapidly followed by generalised illness and acute kidney failure. Unfortunately, many affected dogs cannot be saved in spite of intensive treatment. Although a good deal of analysis and research is going on, we still have no idea what the cause is so it’s very hard to advise how to keep your dog safe. However, you should not worry too much. Your dog is very unlikely to meet this disease as it is extremely rare - the only published figures available showed 30 confirmed cases in the whole of the UK by the end of March 2014.

Over the last few weeks, my 3 year old cat has started grooming herself more than usual. I sometimes sit there and watch her and wince as she really goes at it sometimes. Overgrooming is quite a common problem in cats. It is usually due to two main causes – itch and stress. Cats rarely scratch themselves if

they itch but they lick the affected area. This can cause hair loss, and sometimes you will find scabs and sores on the skin. The commonest reason by far is flea-bite hypersensitivity, so the first thing to do for your cat is to make sure that you are using an effective flea treatment, at the correct dose and frequency. Prescription flea treatments are usually much better than over-the-counter remedies.

Stress makes some cats groom excessively. It is believed that grooming causes the release of feel-good endorphin hormones in the cat, and this helps to counter any stress the cat is having. Stress could be anything from a new cat coming into the garden to a new baby at home - or just a neighbour with a noisy dog. Cat companions at home are actually the most common cause! There are some helpful non-drug remedies for stress, such as Feliway and Zylkene, and if the cat is disturbed enough to warrant it, we sometimes use human antidepressants (but please don’t give her any yourself, as you could seriously harm her!) However, in my experience, very few cats overgroom purely because of stress – there is usually a small amount of itch that initiates it. If you can’t work out what is going on, see your vet before it gets too bad.

I have a small dog who very occasionally, seems to start snorting in and out quite loudly as if he was sneezing inwards. It can happen for no reason but mostly occurs when he is out on a walk when he’s busy sniffing things as he likes to do. It only lasts for a few minutes and he doesn’t appear affected by it afterwards. Do you know if this is normal or if he has a problem of some kind that needs to be addressed?This sounds like the phenomenon of ‘reverse sneezing’ – which is exactly how you’ve described it. Reverse sneezing is usually seen in dogs, rarely in cats, and we don’t know what causes it. It may be associated with allergies or other respiratory irritation but usually there are no other signs and the patient doesn’t go on to develop more troublesome symptoms. Most dogs who do reverse sneeze will do it on repeated occasions. It doesn’t seem to worry them and stops after a few seconds. It may help to gently stroke the throat or close his nostrils for a few seconds to encourage him to swallow to end the episode. There are other conditions which are similar to reverse sneezing which can be more serious, so if your dog is at all unwell, get him checked by your vet.

Pet Questions

Chris Troughton of Heath Vets answers your pet-related questions

Pets Questions page is sponsored by Heath Vetsa: 123 Heol-y-Deri, Rhiwbina CF14 6UHt: 02920 621511w: www.heathvets.co.uk

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Having to fit in those walks - whatever the weatherDuring the summer months, there is nothing finer than strolling through fields, across meadows and even bumbling along the local streets with the dog in tow. But come autumn, the walks get shorter and wetter. Come winter, and you’re looking up the telephone number of the local dog walker.

That moment you run out of poop bags on the walkYou’ve stuffed your pockets with what you think is enough poop bags to supply the local neighbourhood. What you weren’t prepared for was the fact that your furry little friend sometimes turns into an unstoppable pooping machine. Your bags disappear quicker than water in the desert. Before long, you reach

into your pocket and to your horror, find what you were dreading all along - no more poop bags. This is where you explore your creative side, thinking up poop bag alternatives.

Sleep? What’s that?You've had such a long day. You climb into bed early, desperate for an early night and catch up on some shut eye. Within seconds, you're away with the fairies and all's well. But then your mutt decides that the house is being attacked by an army of alien invaders. Their sudden howling wakes you so rapidly that you wake up thinking that the postman is hammering on the door and you fly out of bed and down the stairs before you even open your eyes. Turns out it was just the old radiator cooling down that your dog was defending you from. Bless.

The smell of a wet dogEven if you can persuade your dog to head out in the rain, you know that the return to the house is going to bring with it all kinds of problems. Firstly, there’s the fact that they have absolutely no regard for your newly-cleaned carpets and furniture. Secondly, there’s that mellow, slightly rancid smell of a wet dog drying out. It fills the house for days.

The whiff of dog foodAs you know, dogs sniff and eat all kinds of rubbish. Whatever you buy for your furball, none of their foods smell particularly appetising. In fact, when you open the food, the warm waft of dog food reminds you of that time you were told to eat mum’s lamb and kidney suet pudding when you were a kid. Your good work is nearly always rewarded by your dog burping its appreciation right in

18 problems only dog owners will understand

34

Cardiff is very much a city of dog lovers. However, owning a dog comes with its very own set of problems

your face afterwards - and it always smells as fresh as when you opened the tin.

Fur - everywhereUnless you’re one of the lucky ones with a non-moulting dog, you’ll know how the painters on the Forth Bridge feel - their job is never ending. Your hoover bulges with the weight of dog fur and no matter how many times a day you hoover, there will always be a constant layer of dog fur in your house. Your best bet is to tell people that it’s a layer of fur that’s protecting your furniture.

Missing socksHaving received several new pairs of socks for Christmas, it’s quite normal for you to want to pop them on your feet and wear them. ‘Hm. I’m sure I left a pair of these here,’ you think to yourself before realising that your dog is unusually quiet. You can say goodbye to matching pairs of socks if you own a dog.

Following you around the houseCommercial TV breaks are the ideal opportunity to pop to the loo aren’t they? They’re just enough time to...oh...what’s this? Why are you following me? I’m only going to the loo. There’s nothing interesting to see here. Please. Go back to where you were - I’m just popping to the kitchen to pop the kettle on. Why are you following me? What are you...GET OUT OF MY WAY!

The Doorbell ProblemTo your dog, a ringing doorbell suggests that there is an intruder trying to break into their property. Valiantly, your dog will warn away this intruder (usually a postman) by barking furiously and loudly. The intruder will naturally go away once he or she has delivered your mail. Your dog however, will consider their barking a great success at keeping intruders at bay. After all, it was their barking that made them go away wasn’t it?

Tangling leads with other dogsIt is dog etiquette to say hello to another dog by sniffing each other's bottom. Unfortunately, if both dogs

are on a lead, they tend to walk around in circles to do this, leading to what is known as 'lead tangling'. You attempt to laugh it off with the words 'Oh, they always do this don't they?' but find yourself even more tangled than you were originally when you step in to sort things out.

The disappointment when they reject the expensive bone you bought themYou can’t wait to get home to show them what you’ve bought them. It’s the biggest, juiciest bone you’ve ever seen - and you know that your pooch is going to be so happy to get stuck into it. Sadly, they take one sniff of it and waddle over to pick up their old favourite. You leave the new one out festering for a few days before dropping it into the bin with a heavy heart.

SquirrelsNo one can say exactly why squirrels drive dogs so crazy. It must be lodged deep in their DNA in the same way that spiders make us humans react. Whatever the reason, one thing that’s guaranteed to make a dog move quicker than they speed of light is a squirrel. Nothing on earth can coax them away from a squirrel hunt.

Putting on puppy eyes at your feet when you are eatingYou made the fatal mistake of feeding your dog from the hand when they were just a little puppy. And now every time you eat, you find a pair of very sad eyes looking up at you longingly. It’s very tempting to pass them a morsel of food but you know that it really isn’t the right thing to do. Is it? No. But maybe I’ll just sneak them this piece - just this once. But don’t tell anyone ok?

Visiting the vetsIt’s understandable that your dog won’t relish the thought of visiting the vet. After all, you hardly jump with joy when you have to visit the dentist do you? If you’re a real dog-lover, you’ll almost feel sorry for them, sat there quivering with fear as they are taken in to be examined. That’s until you have to fork out the

rest of your month’s wages on the way out. You don’t feel so sorry for them then do you? Oh no.

The feeling of guilt when you leave the house without themWell you are the only friend that they have in the world aren’t you?

Wanting to go out into the garden just to come back in againThey will time this so that you’ve just sat down to eat. A polite little scratch at the door will have you standing up with a sigh and heading to the back door to let them out. Your dog will wait until the very second that you’re sat back in your seat before scratching the door to be let back in again. It’s been scientifically proven that your dog does this so that they can have a secret laugh at your expense. Check for a very slight smile on their face the next time they come trotting back in.

Your dog barking at a toy, thinking that they can move it with the power of sound aloneIt must be hard for a dog to figure out how to use a new toy. After all, they can’t read the instructions - it’s just presented to them with the expectation that they’ll know what to do with it. One thing they will try and do is move it with the power of sound. That’s right - they’ll bark and bark and bark at it before realising two hours later that they can chew on it.

Lack of bed roomIt was all so relaxing before your dog arrived in the house. You could go to bed, safe in the knowledge that you could spread out any way you wanted. These days, you wake in the night to find that you’re cornered in one side of the bed. You daren’t move in case they fall off the bed so you curl up in a small ball to avoid disturbing them. You eventually drag yourself out of bed when you have to get up and they quite happily jump in their own bed.

35

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As spring arrives, so too does the sunny weather. Shady conditions can occur in tandem with other environmental factors such as clay soil or dry conditions which, in turn, can cause problems for some plants; the shade may be caused by buildings or overhanging trees. Most shrubs that perform well in shade are cultivated forms of plants which naturally occur as understory plants in woodland, such as ivy, holly and spindle. Little will grow in the dense shade under large-leaved trees other than ferns, early bulbs and herbaceous plants which spring up and flower before the leaf canopy closes. In urban areas, the shade is more often caused by buildings and soils are often dry and infertile, or contaminated with rubble. The addition of leaf mould or compost will certainly make the plants feel more at home and boost the invertebrate population of the soil; the increased fertility of the soil will help plants get established. Once they have been in position for a year or so, they can be left to their own devices in all but the most severe summer drought. It is difficult to generalise, but many shade-loving plants are tough cookies and will cope with a variety of conditions. They often benefit from the absence of the hot sun which would otherwise scorch leaves and flowers. The plants don’t read the books however and there are exceptions to every rule. If you really like a plant, give it a go and see how it gets on – the ambient light is often adequate but if your choices are consistently failing, there is bound to be some underlying environmental factor.

The Top Five Shrubs for Shady Conditions

Aucuba japonica – Spotted LaurelGold splashed laurel-like leaves brighten any shady corner where this substantial shrub can reach 2-3m. It is good for screening and hedging and copes well with urban conditions. Pruning is best avoided other than to cut the plant down to the ground if it ever becomes too large. Alternatively, it can be clipped to shape when the desired size is reached. Like many large evergreen shrubs, it requires little in the way of aftercare

other than occasional mulching and a feed with bonemeal or slow release fertiliser. Flowers are small and inconspicuous but they are followed by bright red berries which persist through winter. The variety ‘Crotonifolia’ has the boldest variegated foliage.

Euonymus japonica - Evergreen SpindleEuonymus is an exceptionally tough plant and ranges in size from ground cover plants to small trees. Japanese Evergreen Spindle makes a large shrub up to 3m tall which responds well to clipping if necessary. Otherwise pruning is not needed and beyond annual mulch with compost and a handful of bonemeal, little care is needed. Pests are rarely encountered but the small flowers produced in late summer are attractive to flies and wasps, so the plants are best not placed too close to windows and doors. Variegated forms are usually chosen, the contrasting silver or gold and green splashes of the varieties ‘Kathy’ or ‘Chollipo’ can illuminate the dullest shady border.

Fatsia japonica – False AraliaLarge evergreen palmate leaves are the obvious feature of this shrub which is virtually indestructible and will grow where other plants dare not. It copes with full sun but the leaves take on a yellowish hue, the best lush deep green foliage occurs when grown in shade. The real surprise comes in late autumn when clusters of small white flowers erupt from large buds. These are extremely attractive to wasps, hoverflies and other beneficial insects so is worth growing for benefit to these alone. Left to its own devices, it will exceed 2m and become woody at the base. This can be avoided by removing the largest branches down to the ground occasionally. An annual top-dressing of leaf mould and bonemeal is the only other care required.

Ilex aquifolium - HollyHolly is the classic woodland understory plant but many variegated forms have found their way into our gardens. Left alone, they can become small trees up to 7m high but when grown as shrubs, they are more commonly kept at 2-3m by annual

clipping. Occasional hard pruning will regenerate an old plant. Some varieties are female - small insignificant flowers will produce winter berries if a male plant is in the vicinity. ‘Handsworth New Silver’ is a handsome berrying form with new purple shoots contrasting with the polished variegated leaves. Another virtually indestructible plant which requires little attention once established and makes a fine home for nesting birds, safe within the prickly foliage.

Viburnum tinus– LaurustinusThis is perhaps the best winter flowering shrub in terms of garden centre sales as it is attractive over a long period from the formation of the red-flushed buds in late summer to the opening of the lightly fragrant flowers throughout warm spells in winter into spring, followed by small blue-black berries. For this reason, it is vital for keen wildlife gardeners. It is easily pleased and grows virtually anywhere with minimal attention, maintaining a deeper green colour when grown in shade. No pruning is required. When cut, growth is promoted at the expense of the flowers so it is best left alone. If it is necessary, it can be clipped to size after flowering in early spring, otherwise it will exceed 3m. ‘Eve Price’ is the most popular form but the newer ‘Lisa Rose’ has an attractive touch of pink about the flowers.

Images copyright Farplants Sales Limited

By Kevin Revell

Kevin Revell is Plant Manager at Caerphilly Garden Centre

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Shrubs for Shade

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I’m sat in my car outside a drive-thru Starbucks. The winter’s rain is pit-pattering on the steamed-up windscreen and on my lap, I’m juggling a pen, a writing pad and a piping hot Grande Caramel Macchiato. Wedged between my shoulder and my ear is my mobile phone. And on the other end of the phone is X Factor winner and global superstar Leona Lewis. She’s telling me about her pet rabbit Melrose. “I met this homeless man on Melrose Avenue in LA where I was living,” she says “He had a rabbit with him on a lead and didn’t know what to do with it so I told him I’d take it home and look after it. It runs around my garden now and seems a lot happier than living on the streets. I gave the homeless man $100 to go and buy some food as he said he might end up eating the rabbit.” The real reason Leona’s on the phone is because she’s promoting her tour, which comes to Cardiff in March. “I’ve got a good few connections with Wales. My mum is from Penarth and I’ve got family who live

in Rhoose. In fact, the last time I played Cardiff, I brought my cousin up on stage where he proposed to his girlfriend. They loved it, the crowd loved and I loved it too – everyone loved it!” After taking the X Factor crown in 2006, her winner’s single, a cover of Kelly Clarkson’s A Moment Like This peaked at number one for four weeks on the UK Singles Chart, breaking the world record for having 50,000 digital downloads within 30 minutes. Her success continued with the release of her debut album, Spirit, in 2007; it went 10x platinum in the UK, while the lead single, Bleeding Love, spent seven weeks at number one. She achieved international recognition with the album in 2008 when she became the first British female solo artist to top the US Billboard 200 album chart in more than 20 years. With a career spanning nearly nine years, Leona is the best-selling act to have emerged from the X Factor franchise, having sold 20 million records worldwide. But this is Leona’s first tour in three years and she is genuinely passionate about it. “I’m really excited by this one. I’ve had a change of record label since the last tour and I’ve had a bit of time outside of a record deal to reflect on things and also to work on the album that the tour is based around. Everything about this tour has a different feel about it and that’s because I’m more independent now. The album and the tour carry the message of empowerment and

aspiration. I wanted the album to be uplifting, to feel like it’s got real heart and soul in it.” The album, entitled I Am, embodies Leona’s drive to connect with the listener. “The phrase I Am is a very powerful one because you can put whatever you want after it. You can use it to become something better, to propel yourself forward. The album has brought me more positive comments from listeners than I have ever had with any of my others. I feel that I have connected a lot more to my hard-core fans this time – the personal touch really does seem to have paid off. I’m happy as the album was very nearly a no-goer in the early days for one reason or another.” The Cardiff show will be an uplifting experience. I want people to feel involved with the show so I’m wanting everyone to sing along. The tour kicks off in Liverpool in February – I’ll be promoting the new album but I’ll be singing some old favourites too. There’s something for everyone.” Looking ahead to the rest of 2016, Leona is keen to get back to her roots. “This year will be about getting back into the studio, creating new music and most of all – spending time with my family.” Leona visits St David’s Hall on March 2nd. Tickets are available from the Box Office on 029 2087 8444 or via their website at www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

Christmas means family, home and

Fresh from the Rugby World Cup, Sam Warburton talks rugby,

Christmas and what happened one

Patric Morgan talks music, fame and rabbits with X Factor winner Leona Lewis ahead of her Cardiff show

38

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