Sancler Times Issue 22

PHILIP DOWDING TELEVISION ENGINEER New in St Clears Over 30 years in the trade Available most weekends for ⇒ Television repairs ⇒ New TVs tuned in and set up ⇒ Flat pack stands assembled ⇒ Replacement remote controls 01 994 230321 07778 354668 For friendly personal service Malcolm Herbert Plant Hire Ltd WEMBLEY Wembley Services St. Clears Tool Hire SERVICES Ltd Carmarthenshire SA33 4LX Station Yard, Station Road SA33 4DQ 01 994 230320 Mobile 07831 360046 Independent BMW specialist Mon-Fri 0730-1700 Sat 0800-1200 Tel: 01994 230580 Fax: 01994 230594 Derrick James www.wembley-services.co.uk Proprietor derrick@wembley-services.co.uk STORE MANAGER CARL JOHN UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT WITH CARL JOHN AS STORE MANAGER Lewis Lewis & Co Ltd Solicitors Normal Hours Mon-Sat 0700 - 2300 County Chambers, Pentre Road, St. Clears, Sun 0800 - 2230 Carmarthenshire SA33 4AA Meat from Eynons, Bread from Tel: 01994 231044 Laugharne Vegetables, Dairy Produce and a Superb Providing a quality legal service to West Wales Selection of Pencader Cakes Sanclêr Times Issue 22: Autumn 2009 Editorial: Mike Fletcher Advertising: Tom Brown Page 2

Sanclêr Times Newsletter Team Issue 22 Editorial and Design: Michael Fletcher - 231665 sancler@talktalk.net Autumn 2009 Advertising and Finance: Tom Brown - 230426 twjpatcliffsi@aol.com Distribution and Printing: Arthur Collinge - 230718 arthurcollinge@dsl.pipex.com Issued free to all households in the St Clears township. External annual subscription rates, including postage: Mainland UK £15, Overseas £20 If you are unable to send news and other contributions direct to the editor you can leave information at the key points below St Clears Bancyfelin Keith Major/White Lion: 230370 kamajor76@hotmail.com Jeff Gronow: 211872 jeffrey.gronow@btinternet.com Ivy Thomas/Library: 230127 IvyThomas@carmarthenshire.gov.uk Jeff Curtis/Post Office: 211873 janettecurtis57@hotmail.com Sallie Griffiths 230209 sallie_g@hotmail.com Bruce Wallace 211207 brucewallace@bancyfelin.co.uk Lynn Bowen 230994 hl.bowen@virgin.net Elsa Davies 211344 daviesem@hotmail.com Margaret Owen: 230019 margaret.owen@tesco.net Principle Contents Editorial Comment Regular readers will be aware that the newsletter team The Euro-clock: Brussels logic p4 strives constantly to improve your quarterly publication, but it does require feedback from you. If you want Micro-chipping: Facts from the Vets p4 changes you need to let us know! Welsh Treasures: A new series about the In an attempt to develop the Sanclêr Times as a proac- attractions of living in St Clears p5 tive forum for the community we do occasionally and deliberately introduce controversial material hoping that this might stir you write to us and air your own Flooding in Town: AM Angela Burns p5 views. Tell us what you really think. Sales and Wants: A new venture p7 In the formative period of the Times we tried a Sales and Wants section but there was little response to the New Trustees: Town Trust election p7 idea. We are offering this again for consideration. The Times interviews seem to be popular so will continue as Gallery interest continues p7 will the gardening club helpful hints. A new feature is a series on local attractions with an open invitation for St Clears Show: A family day out p8 you to contribute if you wish this to develop. It is appropriate now that we increase the size of the School Activity: YGJ successes p9 newsletter team so that we have more opportunities to address a wider range of issues and carry more local Horticultural hints: Gardening club p11 news. A sub-editor to help with specific activities such as sports and a reporter to scour the St Clears area for Letters p11 news would be helpful so how about rising to the challenge of making a serious contribution? Contact any of Interview— Maldwyn Jenkins p13 the existing team. Editorial policy is laid down by the 12 strong Newsletter We’ve gone Global: Newsletter now on Team which meets following the publication of each is- the web p13 sue to discuss and review feedback from the community. Craft Centre re-opens its doors p15 The new car park, the play areas and Peillac Way con- Surgery report p15 tinue to attract comment from readers and on the basis that they will be topics for discussion for some time to Town Council report p16 come we will return to them in the future. In the meantime do note that suggestions and comments in connection with the car park and river walk south of the Summer in Town: Bancyfelin and St dual carriageway should go direct to the County Coun- Clears events p 15 and 16 cil. The Town Council has responsibility for the skate board park and for the cycle/footpath linking the car park to Peillac Way. Sanclêr Times Issue 22: Autumn 2009 Editorial: Mike Fletcher Advertising: Tom Brown Page 3

Changing Times in St Clears ing making available free transparent plastic discs with the 20 hour day display for sticking over watch and clock faces. Further measures may include the training Every year we put our clocks forward an hour for a few of Time Counsellors to assist those who find time months and then back again at the end of the summer. weighing heavily as the hours unavoidably lengthen. We have been doing this ever since 1916 when an Act or- Clearly much work still has to be done, but there will be dained that clocks should be advanced by one hour in ad- a public meeting organised by the Town Council (the vance of GMT. During the Second World War things were date and dual time to be announced soon) to hear local slightly different as double summer time (two hours in ad- opinion. vance of GMT) was introduced with one hour in advance in the winter. Since then we have had Daylight Saving Time every year, usually from the last Saturday of March to the Microchipping fourth Sunday in October. Now the dates for the European Special Offer for Times Readers Union are fixed by directive. Text from Egbert de Vries, Market Hall Vetinary Group Spring forward—Fall back is the mnemonic which helps us to remember which way to change the time, but this may Have you ever wondered what you would do if your be- be one of the last times you use it if Brussels has its way. loved pet went missing or worse, was stolen? By law, A European Directive (EU?1APR/GB2010) intends to abolish your dog should already be wearing a collar and tag, Daylight Saving Time and to take this opportunity to go however collars can break, if this happens can your pet even further and change clocks to Metric Time (MT). The still be tracked back to you? And what of your cat, current proposal is that there would be 20 hours in a day horse or rabbit. No matter where in the county or coun- and 100 minutes in an hour. Before rolling out this policy try — every animal found is routinely scanned for a mi- nationwide the European Commission has selected St crochip by the police, rescue authorities and vets. How Clears in Wales, Cholet in France and Heidelberg in Ger- awful would it be, to discover that your pet had been many, along with a few other market towns with prominent found but with no idea who they belonged to, they were town clocks, for a pilot study into the problems that might euthanised as a stray? arise. More than 450,000 animals have been microchipped in As an interim measure, and the past five years in the UK alone and it is recom- to get the public talking, mended by all the major animal charities. Microchipping one face of our own clock is a quick, economic, permanent and safe way of ensur- will be blanked out in ing that if your pet is found you can be contacted and much the same way as in contacted immediately. The microchip consists of a the photograph. We under- rice-sized capsule which contains a barcode that is stand that a special com- linked to your contact details on a secure national data- mittee has already been set base. It is simply injected between the shoulder blades up in County Hall to address the technical issues The cost of microchipping is normally £17.15. However involved. They will be seek- for the month of September, all microchips will be done ing advice from children at at the discounted rate of just £10.50 for Sancler Times Ysgol Griffith Jones on how readers. Simply mention where you saw this article to to use a protractor to set qualify for the special price. Please phone Market Hall out the 36 degree intervals vets on 01994 230451 for more details or to book an between the clock numer- appointment. als. Having overcome this hurdle it is hoped that the committee will ensure that Meet the Police the new mechanisms and From Tom Brown dials run clockwise and not anti-clockwise. The last PACT (Police And Communities Together) meeting was held on 24 June with PCSOs Jamie Fleig To date there has not been much publicity about this fun- and Bryony Phillips. Local residents voiced their concern damental change, perhaps because the Government has about a variety of topics which could affect the well- enough economic problems to deal with at present and is being of members of the public. As only three priorities wary of enflaming public opinion. But local councillors who should be considered at each meeting, they all agreed have seen the Directive are alarmed at its contents. Ap- on the following: parently it is also the Government’s intention to introduce a Dual Time period from October this year to get us used to Parking at the junction of Heol Goi and High Street. the idea of MT before full implementation in 2011. Drinking outside Public Houses in the centre of town. To comply with this European Directive our County Council is proposing the St Clears town clock be altered so that one Vehicles speeding excessively in Pentre Road and Sta- face will show standard time whilst the other will show Met- tion Road. ric Time. This would also mean that people travelling west along Pentre Road would be faced with a different time PACT meetings are open to than those travelling in the opposite direction. The two all residents, without ap- other faces would remain, as they have ever since the pointment, who care about clock was commissioned, to a variable incorrect time, lo- the community. It’s a most cally referred to as St Clears Mean Time. useful way of alerting the police to local problems so In recognition of the fact that the transition period may be go along and voice your very difficult for many people the Government is consider- Image from Tom Brown views. Sanclêr Times Issue 22: Autumn 2009 Editorial: Mike Fletcher Advertising: Tom Brown Page 4

Treasures on our Doorstep Newton House As St Clears moves inexorably - some would say reluc- tantly - towards recognising its future as a base for tourism The ground floor in West Wales it seems appropriate that we begin to appreci- and basement of ate more the treasures on our doorstep. Newton House are furnished c.1912 We propose therefore to introduce a series in which we fea- and there is a new ture attractive places to visit that are located within reason- exhibition on the able driving distance of St Clears. To start the ball rolling, first floor which Newton House image courtesy National Trust/ this issue will concentrate on Dinefwr Park. If the concept tells visitors about Andrew Butler appeals to you it’s then down to you to keep it going by sub- Dinefwr's past. mitting your own favourites. So here’s the challenge—we need from you about 250 words and two or three photo- graphs. No 1 Dinefwr Park Flooding in St Clears Situated in the tranquil Towy valley the 286 hectare Dinefwr estate is one of our hidden gems. The centre of power and From Angela Burns AM influence for more than 1,000 years, it is an iconic place in the history of Wales. This is where the Lord Rhys, Prince of “The stink is absolutely terrible” Deheubarth, held court. “Can you imagine what it is like to see your life’s pos- sessions floating around in flood water?” How to get there: One mile from the centre of Llandeilo, just This was just some of the heartfelt testimony given to off the A40. OS map 159: SN 612217 the Welsh Assembly Government’s Sustainability Com- mittee when it toured St Clears to hear first hand Amenities: disabled parking, information centre, café, toilets about flooding problems. and a shop. As a member of the committee I chaired the meeting and helped to gather valuable first-hand evidence What to do: which will be used when we come to draw up legisla- tion. One of the longest running sagas we heard about was The Castle that of Alun James of Bush House in St Clears who has had a problem with flooding that has lasted 22 years. Substantial re- A sewage pump just mains of a native outside his property Welsh castle - prin- floods every time it cipal stronghold of rains heavily and his the princes of De- ground floor has been heubarth, held by filled with raw sewage the Lord Rhys in so many times he now the twelfth cen- has to live upstairs. tury. Later taken His house is blighted so by King Edward I he can’t sell and Welsh and retained as a Water seems unable to royal stronghold. make the situation any Local AM Angela Burns surveys the The views down damage done to Alun James’ house. better. the Towy valley are Hearing from people breathtaking. such as Mr James helps civil servants and politicians realise the human cost of flooding. The Landscape It also brings a good dose of common sense to the table – so often local residents and farmers know exactly The superb 18th-century which areas flood every year and yet they are not con- designed landscape will sulted when it comes to planning new estates. inspire visitors to explore The Government is often saying we need to take re- the park, home to more sponsibility and help ourselves, well that’s fine, but it than 100 fallow deer and works both ways and the powers that be must listen to a herd of rare White Park us as well. cattle. The Welsh Assembly Government has now agreed to additional funding for flooding problems and forged an A 3 mile circular walk is agreement with insurers. on mostly level ground However it has once again failed to make it clear who but can be muddy, espe- is ultimately responsible for flood prevention in Wales. cially on damp grassland. There is a serious lack of cohesion between the Assem- The Dragonfly Walk bly Government and relevant bodies over dealing with stretch is fully wheelchair flooding. and pushchair accessible. Unfortunately for Mr James he’s one of the ones Other walk routes are caught in the middle. well highlighted with leaf- lets and way-marks on *Whether your problem is flooding or anything else remember that I am site. here to help when you don't seem to be able to get answers from any- where else. Call me on 01994 419800 or 01834 863943 or email me angela.burns@wales.gov.uk Sanclêr Times Issue 22: Autumn 2009 Editorial: Mike Fletcher Advertising: Tom Brown Page 5

MEDWAY CARPENTRY & BUILDING CONTRACTORS EIROS DAVIES MARK DAVIES Crofters Riverside House Bro Sarnau Bridge Street Rhydargaeau St. Clears 01267 253382 01994 231176 BUILDING ON OUR REPUTATION Don’t suffer pain WHITE LION needlessly… KEITH AND ANN MAJOR it won’t hurt to REAL ALE/GOOD FOOD Pwll-Trap make the call St. Clears Hot and cold food served all day Carmarthenshire SA33 4AT THE INJURY CLINIC Pentre Road Phone:01994 230 370 St Clears e-mail:kamajor76@hotmail.com 01 994 230150 www.stclearsinjuryclinic.co.uk White Lion W M Oriel Dip FTST Dip IIST A.C.R. ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES Siarad Cymraeg Family Business Rhodri Davies, Brynhytryd, Pwll Trapp, St Clears Tel: 01 994 231713 Mobile: 07866 480986 On call 24 hours—7 days SKIP HIRE WASTE DISPOSAL All sizes available Drop doors for easy loading Cesspits Septic Tanks Domestic/Industrial asbestos disposal Fast friendly efficient service Hazel ’s Hair and Beauty Hair Salon Mon: Closed Tues: 9am - 7.30pm Wed: 9am - 5pm Thurs: 9 am - 8pm Fri: 9am - 6pm Sat: 8.30 am - 2.30pm For more information please contact Julie, Jodi or Emma 12 Corvus Terrace, St Clears 01 994 231113 Sanclêr Times Issue 22: Autumn 2009 Editorial: Mike Fletcher Advertising: Tom Brown Page 6

Sales and Wants family trees. A team of volunteers are helping to man the gallery allowing it to open Friday, Saturday and Sunday but anyone interested in attending the gallery out of hours Judging by the success of the regular Car Boot Sale in the for a private view and talk should contact Stella or Alan at car park we thought it time to see if there is a demand for a the Gallery who are still appealing for local people to visit sales and wants section in the Times. To set the ball rolling the exhibition before it moves on. They are especially we have a few tasters for you. All enquiries initially through keen to hear from schools and other groups. the editor—tel 231665. Rechargeable Soda Water Syphon. £1 New Trustees Elected Golf clubs (10), bag and trolley. £2 each or the lot for £25. The Town Trust now has a full complement of trustees following a public election in May. The new members are Woodworking tools £3 each in boxes (rabbett, plough and Mark Davies, Stella Griffiths, Philip Hughes and Paul Tho- jack planes). mas. The mayor, Cllr Margaret Owen, has accepted the 500 W slide projector £4 position of Honorary Portreeve during her year in office. 12 inch electric chain saw £5 Archive St Clears and Laugharne has arranged for a com- memorative plaque to be placed on the external wall of the Town Hall. This will be unveiled by the Mayor with M and M’ s Recipe County Councillor, Philip Hughes, on August 13. Leek and Potato Pie Merched y Wawr – Cangen San Cler 8 ozs short crust pastry 1 oz butter From Beti-Wyn James 1 medium onion 1 clove of garlic [crushed] Cynhaliwyd ein cyfarfod blynyddol ar Fai 19. Croesawyd 1 level tbs plain flour pawb gan y llywydd a diolchodd i bawb oedd wedi rhoi cef- ¼ pint milk nogaeth i’r gangen eleni. Diolchodd yn arbennig i Iona yr salt & pepper ysgrifennydd a Margaret Rees, y trysorydd, am eu gwaith 1 large leek [thinly sliced] trwyadl. Etholwyd swyddogion am y flwyddyn nesaf: 1½ lbs potatoes Llywydd : Lilwen Thomas 1 tbs chopped parsley Ysgrifennydd : Beti Thomas 4ozs grated cheddar cheese Trysorydd : Margaret Rees Is – lywydd – Beti-Wyn James 1. Melt butter and add onion, leek and garlic Is – drysorydd – Rhian Williams 2. Cook gently for 5 mins until softened Dosbarthydd y Wawr : Nia Lewis 3. Add flour, milk then bring to the boil, stirring all the Trefnyddion gwibdeithiau : Nia a Rhian time, then simmer until thickened Trefnwyd rhaglen gogyfer â’r tymor nesaf a fydd yn 4. Season well with salt and pepper cychwyn ar Fedi 15fed. 5. Cook the potatoes for 10 mins then drain and rinse under cold water Cwrddodd y Clwb Darllen yn nhy Sally ar Fai 20fed. Y llyfr 6. Add to onion and leek mixture with cheese & parsley dan sylw oedd “The Reluctant Redhead” – Eluned Phillips. and allow to cool Cafwyd trafodaeth ddifyr am y llyfr gyda pheth syndod fod 7. Line an 8 inch round loose bottom tin with half the merch o Genarth wedi llwyddo i gyfarfod â’r holl enwogion pastry then put in the mixture megis Edith Piaf a Picasso. Y llyfr nesaf fydd “Hyd yn 8. Cover with the rest of the pastry then bake in the Hyn” – Gillian Elisa. centre of the oven for 20-25 mins: Gas 6, 200°C or 400°F Taith o gwmpas Talacharn oedd taith y Clwb Cerdded ar 9. Serve hot or cold Fehefin 5ed. Bu’r tywydd yn ddigon ffafriol i rhyw 12 ohonom gerdded i fyny St. John’s Hill a gweld y golygfeydd ardderchog o’r aber. I ddilyn mwynhawyd pryd Gallery Report yn y Cross House Inn. From Alan Evans Llongyfarchiadau i Lilwen ar ennill y gystadleuaeth trefnu The Gallery at the Town Hall continues to attract visitors blodau a drefnwyd gan y rhanbarth. Pob lwc iddi nawr yn from around the world. Visitors from the UK, Australia, New y Sioe Frenhinol yn Llanelwedd. Births Marriages and Deaths The newsletter team is always prepared to mark events where readers submit information. It has become policy to make special mention in obituaries of those who have made major contributions to the community and previous issues have featured Ken Morgan, Del Thomas and Randel Davies. Information for these obituaries has been obtained by interviews with the family and the final text is always submitted to the family for approval. In the case of Ran- del, his son Mark approved the final text but some readers consider that mention should have been made of Randel’s Zealand, America, Spain found their way to the exhibition partner for many years, Glenys. Mark now agrees that this after having seen the BBC news reports. Many of the visitors was an omission on his part and would like to offer his have or had relatives living in St. Clears and were tracing apologies. Sanclêr Times Issue 22: Autumn 2009 Editorial: Mike Fletcher Advertising: Tom Brown Page 7

Another Successful St Clears Show Plenty to see and do, lots of laughter and thankfully a dry sunny day After a number of years enduring bad weather and access difficulties to a farm site near St Clears, the event organisers moved the show last year at short notice and found that the facilities offered at the Carmarthenshire Showground made it a more appropriate location. This year they continued to develop the format. Show chairman Bill John said: “I feel that this show can now really move forward and I must truly express my appreciation to all our very loyal exhibitors, sponsors and trade stands.” This was the first show of the season in West Wales and, on a glorious spring day, the entries in the horse and pony classes together with those for sheep and cattle were very good. It has to be reported that the standard of entries in the horticul- ture section were less than promising - too many classes and some carrying only one entry. Much room for improvement here. The stewarding however was excellent and parking, support for exhibitors and trade stands and help for visitors en- sured a smooth flow of activity. The show featured all the usual attractions for an event of this kind - plenty to eat and drink and lots of trade and community stands. The organisers also introduced a display of carriage driving, a splendidly attired marching band, a parade of vintage farm equipment and a hot air balloon. Sanclêr Times Issue 22: Autumn 2009 Editorial: Mike Fletcher Advertising: Tom Brown Page 8

Ysgol Griffith Jones St. Clears Show The school were very pleased to win the schools’ trophy From Beti-Wyn James in the art and handwriting competitions at the St. Clears Show. Winners of the individual competitions were: Eisteddfod yr Urdd Art Years 5 & 6 – Roedd pedair eitem o’r 2. Jacob Lewis, 3. ysgol wedi cyrraedd Ei- Adam Evans steddfod Genedlaethol yr Handwriting Urdd yng Nghaerdydd. Fe Years 5 & 6 – 1. wnaethon nhw i gyd yn Sara Jenkins, 2. dda yn y rhagbrofion a Aimee Hicks roeddem yn sobor o falch Handwriting fod Elin Fflur Jones wedi Years 3 & 4- 1. ennill ar yr unawd i Fl. 2 Charly Dix, 2. ac iau. Yn ogystal ag en- Maddy Davies, 3. nill y gystadleuaeth fe Maddy Davies enillodd wyliau i Disney- Handwriting land Paris fel rhan o Years 1 & 2 – 3. gyswllt yr Urdd a Disney- Tanwen Cox land. Hefyd llongyfarchiadau F1 Challenge mawr i Guto Rhys Huws o Fl. 2 ar ddod yn drydydd yn y The school team (Kyle, Adam, Charlie, William, Jacob, gystadleuaeth gemwaith i Fl. 2 ac iau. Cafodd ei waith ei Amy and Grace) under the guidance of Mr. Toms and arddangos yn adeilad y Senedd drwy wythnos yr Eistedd- Mrs. Davies, have been preparing for the F1 challenge by fod. designing and making a model car, organising sponsor- ship and merchandise as well as preparing a presentation Athletics for the F1 challenge day held on July 1st at Parc y Scar- The school team competed in the Carmarthenshire Champi- lets, Llanelli. They did extremely well, competing against onship and performed extremely well, finishing second to other schools from Carmarthenshire (Nantgaredig, Maes Ysgol Dewi Sant, Llanelli. Congratulations to Sara, Menna, y Morfa, Llandybie, Johnstown, Tycroes, Carreg Hirfaen) Ellie, Myshka, Jaydee, Kyle, William, Rhodri and Rhys on and enjoyed the day which proved to be a valuable ex- winning points for the school. perience for them. The school team competed in the Dyfed Championship and It was pleasing to see two of our former pupils Jack and did extremely well to finish in 2nd position. As 30 teams James with the Ysgol Dyffryn Taf team. competed from schools in the three counties the pupils were thrilled with their success. Results were as follows: Eco Schools Sprint : 3. Rhodri Lloyd, 4. Sara Jenkins We were very proud to have achieved the Green Flag Hurdles: 2. Menna Thomas denoting that Ysgol Griffith Jones is an eco-school. This Long jump : 3. William Lewis 6.Ellie Thomas was achieved by the hard work of all at the school under High Jump : 4. Myshka Cragg, 4. Kyle Pfaff the direction of Mrs. Bowen and the Eco-committee. At Shot putt : 1. Jaydee Owen, 8. Rhys Owens the same time the school earned the third leaf of the on- Relay : 3. Girls’ team (Sara, Ellie, Myshka, Menna) going Healthy Schools initiative – another worthwhile Jaydee, Sara, Menna, Myshka, William, Kyle and Rhodri award. have been selected to represent Dyfed in the forthcoming Tesco Vouchers competition against West Glamorgan. Cangratulations to The school would like to thank everyone in the commu- them. nity who donated their Tesco vouchers to the school. It Safe Cycling has enabled the school to obtain another two computers. 28 Year 6 pupils undertook the safe cycling course, all gaining their certificates at the end. Taith CYD Sanclêr Trip Criced Bu dau dîm o’r ysgol yn cystadlu yn Nhwrnament Criced Ar y pedwerydd o Fedi bydd Ysgolion Cwm Taf.Llongyfarchiadau i’r Tîm a ar ddod yn ail taith CYD yn ymweld â Dyffryn yn y gystadleuaeth a mynd ymlaen ii’r rownd sirol ac i’r Tîm Teifi. Yr Amgueddfa Plentyndod B ar ennill y gystadleuaeth plat. yn Rhos Llangeler, yr Am- gueddfa Wlân yn Nhrefach- Summer Fayre Felindre a Caws Cenarth. The PTFA held a very successful Summer Fayre on June 19th. It was very well-attended and buying and selling was Fanylion Lyn Davies 01 267 brisk. A considerable sum was raised for PTFA funds. 211543 Proms 16 pupils performed as members of the Primary Schools September 19 will see Cyd trav- Choir in the Proms held on Saturday, June 13th at the Bo- elling to the Tefi valley to see tanic Garden. The instrumentalists performed as members the Museum of Childhood at of various orchestras in the evening proms held at Llanelli Rhos Llangeler, the National on June 16th. Wool Museum at Drefach- Felindre and to Cenarth to watch Musician of the Year cheese being made. Two pupils, Carys Mererid Davies (violin) and Daniel o’Cal- laghan (flute) competed in the Musician of the Year compe- Further information from Lyn tition organised by Carmarthen Rotary Club. Congratula- From fleece to fabric at the Davies 01 267 211543 tions to both on their performances. National Wool Museum Sanclêr Times Issue 22: Autumn 2009 Editorial: Mike Fletcher Advertising: Tom Brown Page 9

Bridge Works, Pentre Road, St Clears T.01 994 230384 W. www.gwwales.co.uk GRANITE WORKTOPS BATHROOMS KITCHENS FIREPLACES TILES Contact Ralph Vantage Good Looks health watch See how Chris Jenkins Pharmacy can help you move towards a Healthier Lifestyle Beauty Salon FACIALS, WAXING, MANICURE, PEDICURE, Blood pressure monitoring LASH & BROW TINTING, BROW SHAPING, MASSAGE, G5 MASSAGE Diabetes awareness Wedding Speciality : Make-up for the Bride and all the ladies of the Medicines reviews family in the comfort of your own home on your special day Gift Vouchers Available Smoking cessation Weight management Sallie Griffiths Pentre Road, St Clears Tel 01 994 230456 M.S.B.Th., I.F.H.B., S.R.H., I.R.H.T Next to Rebecca Riots Statue Telephone 01994 230209 Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1730, Sat 0900-1300 Sanclêr Times Issue 22: Autumn 2009 Editorial: Mike Fletcher Advertising: Tom Brown Page 10

From Lloyd Rees Gardening Club I write to you to ask if you could highlight the action being From Paul & Carol Leeds - 231124 taken to re-instate the railway station in St Clears and advise your readers how they can support the work being Things to Do in the Garden in the Autumn done. Lawn Care: This is the time of the year to scarify the lawn The station closed in 1964 but calls to reopen it have been to reduce the risk of moss and to get rid of the thatch that made for more than 20 years. Action is now being taken by has built up. Lawns that have suffered from dry weather, or a specially formed sub-committee of the Town Council sup- wear and tear, can be treated with a good quality autumn ported by AM Angela Burns. The sub-committee met in June feed. Such fertiliser - high in potash, will encourage root and a second meeting is scheduled for September.* growth and form up the grass for winter. Finally mow the lawn for one of the last times of the year, not forgetting to The summer issue of the Sanclêr Times featured an article raise the cut level by about 2 cms for fine grass, or slightly by Mrs Burns who reported, ‘We have received support from higher for more hard wearing lawns. the Director of Regeneration and the Head of Transport at Perennials: Lift and store your fuchsias, geraniums and the County Council and I have had a meeting with Network other tender perennials, not forgetting to label each plant. Rail to understand the reality of the costs that would be in- Also lift dahlia tubers, standing them upside down to drain volved. In the meantime the Town Council is putting to- moisture from the hollow stems, before storing in a well ven- gether a survey which we are going to get out to all in St tilated, dark and frost free place for the winter. Clears and the surrounding area from Laugharne to Llan- Bulbs: For mass spring colour, plant spring flowering bulbs boidy to see what people would like from their public trans- in tubs, containers and borders. Snowdrops and winter aco- port. As the new Shadow Minister for the Environment I am nites sit well below shrubs, while daffodils and crocuses pro- particularly keen to see the railway station back. Many new vide welcome drifts of colour in grassy areas as well as under houses are planned for St Clears, there will be greater pres- trees. Pot up prepared hyacinth bulbs to give a colourful and sure on the town and we need to look to a more sustainable fragrant show over Christmas and the New Year. way forward’. Vegetables: Lift and store root crops such as carrots and turnips, and dig over the vegetable patch, taking care to Public support is now needed to help force the issue for- clear away runner bean and pea sticks and storing them wards. I have launched an internet campaign to which over ready for next season. Add plant debris and any frost dam- 800 have already signed up with supportive comments and aged vegetables to the compost heap, but burn or bin any I appeal to everyone in the catchment area to come forward blighted tomato plants and onions which might have white and put their weight behind the campaign. They can contact rot. Create a healthy supply of winter parsley for your win- the Town Clerk Lynn Bowen or register their support and dow sill by lifting some roots, trimming off the leaves, and view progress through the websites listed below. Alterna- potting up in soil based compost. tively simply type ‘St Clears Railway Station’ into Google. Still lots to do to see you into the winter months - Enjoy your garden. lloyd.a.rees@googlemail.com www.facebook.com www.petitionspot.com/petitions/stclearstrainstation Letters to the Editor *Contact Town Clerk Lynn Bowen for details - 230994 From Keith Hopkins ENCOURAGE OUR KIDS I write in connection with the Skate Park. This space was being reserved for a letter we un- derstood was to be sent to us from the Town Coun- What is wrong with youngsters having fun and using the fa- cil. cilities provided for them by St Clears Town Council? The skate park in question, although in an isolated location, is At the June meeting of Council our editorial in the long overdue, considering the initial demand for it was made Summer issue was discussed. The published min- before most of these youngsters were born.. ute reads; Many people use the lovely walk along Peillac Way on a regu- ‘Concerns were expressed by some members re- lar basis, despite incomplete footpath access from the car garding articles in the current issue of the Sancler park. Times concerning the Town Council. It can take up to an hour to reach St Mary’s Church, and you It was felt that the publication portrayed the Town can stop and chat on the way. In the car park, it is often Council in a negative manner and was not suppor- better to engage with the youngsters who gather to enjoy tive of the Town Council. the park just as you would. Give them a bit of encourage- ment, not aggravation. After all, they are mostly our boys RESOLVED that the Town Mayor and Clerk write to and girls. the editor expressing the Town Council’s concerns and requesting that the publication be more sup- It seems that other individuals gather in cars from outside St portive of the Town Council’. Clears and can also provide alcohol for illegal consumption. There are far more intimidating places to walk in the town At the time of going to press, we have to report when referring to drink-related problems. Quite simply, if that no such letter has been delivered to the news- you should witness a difficult situation, call the police. St letter. Until the letter has been received we are in Clears is blessed with a good group of police officers. CCTV no position to respond. would be more effective than a cage, because this would act as a deterrent to protect everyone. A bit of positive action goes a long way. Sanclêr Times Issue 22: Autumn 2009 Editorial: Mike Fletcher Advertising: Tom Brown Page 11

W. Phillips & Sons BAKERS - CONFECTIONERS - GROCERS County Stores - St Clears - Tel 01994 230474 We specialise in fresh bread and cakes Takeaways Hot and Cold We are confident our baking will suit everybody’s tastes Daily deliveries in the St. Clears and Carmarthen areas Mail to: sheila_phillips@btconnect. Fernlea House, Pentre Road, Medical Hall Pharmacy St Clears SA33 4AA Pentre Road, St Clears Tel 01994 230444 Your Local Healthcare Store 01 994 230371 www.courtneysbridal.co.uk Friendly Helpful Advice Free Prescription collection and delivery Feel pampered - not pressured Part of the A E Petersen group of Pharmacies TOOBY & WILLIAMS LTD THE MARKET, ST CLEARS, CARMARTHENSHIRE, SA33 4BL TEL: 01994 230269 FAX: 01994 231456 S 30 Ride on mowers on display 6hp to 26hp petrol and diesel a 60 lawnmowers on display t 30 Strimmers + Brushcutters on display Rotovators, Shredders, Chippers, Blowers, Chainsaws, u Enjoy an Alfresco Meal in our new secluded beer garden r Hedgecutters, Generators & pressure washers d Sanclêr Times Issue 22: Autumn 2009 Editorial: Mike Fletcher Advertising: Tom Brown Page 12

The Times Interview Photography for the Times Cover and From Alan Evans elsewhere in the Newsletter. Maldwyn Jenkins There would appear to be a split in public opinion as to what we should be using for the front cover. Some con- ‘I remember sider only images taken in St Clears should be used. Oth- lower St. ers say, “It’s really immaterial so long as the quality is Clears vaguely there—and in any event, what is there to photograph in St because I left Clears?” when I was six years of Over to you! If you wish to submit your pictures for con- age. I lived at sideration for the front cover or elsewhere in the newslet- Atsol from ter then send them, preferably by e-mail, to the editor. Do about six bear in mind that the newsletter team is determined to years of age maintain the very high quality it has established so images on. It was need to be of high resolution, typically 1Mb for the cover very remote and 0.5 Mb for use elsewhere. If there’s enough interest but a wonder- we could consider awards for best pictures submitted. ful place. There was a meadow and a Sample entry stream with a from Tom Brown path running alongside it. . We used to ‘Swans are very pro- drink from a tective to their spring and the young but this pair water was will kill anything that crystal clear. gets near them, The farm was unless of course if very old with the house and cowshed under one roof. My you feed them. Its bedroom was against the wall of the cowshed. As a child we so nice to see them used to fish, hunt for bird’s nests and play lots of games. back on the river.’ There were two important men in the area. The first was Mr. Salmon who owned the milk factory and the second was Colonel Buckley who owned Penycoed mansion. We used to Tom also comments, “I wonder how many eagle-eyed take our caps off whenever we saw them. I was educated at readers who saw the front cover of the Summer edition the Board School in St. Clears. There were a lot of shops in spotted the fact that the craft featured was not Broad- St. Clears including the chip shop of Sara Fach. She was a sword but Barracuda. Broadsword is a registered passen- very square built lady who used to cook saucepans full of ger-carrying boat operating out of Laugharne which takes chips over the fire. up to 12 passengers for local sightseeing cruises or a fishing trip. For more details, ‘During the war I was posted to Egypt and was barracked in contact Denzil Brown (no relation to Cairo. I thought it was a bit boring so I joined the reconnais- Tom!) on 07815428907”. sance corps and went into mountain reconnaissance. We were in the Apennine Mountains in the winter and we were there for three months. We used to go out looking for en- emy positions. On one occasion I was blown up and my ca- This issue’s cover is from Alan Evans reer as a soldier was over. I was carried down the mountain proving that we did see some sun this strapped to the side of a mule. I was taken to a tent hospital summer and was operated on. They sent me to a hospital in Florence and they told me I was going home. I ended up in another hospital in Naples for eight months. I stayed in hospital until I was demobbed in 1946. I think the Wars today are terrible. I don’t think this country should be involved. Bush (George) Sanclêr Times goes Global had a big influence on Mr. Blair. There have been a lot of lives lost unnecessarily. I hope Barrack Obama will make a After the town’s website went live in 2005 we discussed difference. the possibilities of posting the Times content for viewing but due to technical difficulties with the Carmarthenshire Tourist Association, which manages the website, found it Comment: Maldwyn grew up on a farm and lived surrounded was only possible to post text. This involved extracting by nature. He drank from the spring and went hunting and text at this end and uploading it which was time- fishing in the countryside. This may have influenced and consuming, tiresome and frankly not too attractive. Now prepared him for his time in the Reconnaissance Corps. He we have achieved a major breakthrough. From the sum- did as most young men did and joined up during the war. He mer issue we have been able to post the entire newsletter paid the price of a soldier being wounded seriously enough in colour. Have a look and let your distant friends and re- to see out the war in hospital. His outlook on war is that it is lations know they can keep abreast of activities here. Go unnecessary and he looks forward to change citing Barack to www.stclears.org.uk and at the bottom of the home Obama as someone who could make a difference. It is a page is a link which will take you to the Times. Bear in view that most of us would share and it highlights the wis- mind it is a large file which takes a few minutes to dom of this unassuming, local man. download so don’t try it without broadband! www.stclears.org.uk Sanclêr Times Issue 22: Autumn 2009 Editorial: Mike Fletcher Advertising: Tom Brown Page 13

T.H.IRA JONES Black Lion Hotel IVY SERVICE STATION Warm Welcome Good Food Real Ales ST.CLEARS Breakfast served 9-11 am 01 994 230450 Lunches served 11 am—2.30 pm Traditional Sunday Lunches Bed & Breakfast PETROL • DIESEL • OIL • MOTOR ACCESSORIES Public Bar with Pool Table Sky Sports on plasma TV large screen THE SHOP Catering for all occasions Entertainment most weekends Cigarettes • Confectionery • Maps • Soft Drinks Disabled access and facilities Newly Refurbished Lounge/Function Room available for bookings CALOR GAS • COAL • LOGS • CAR WASH For enquiries ask for the Duty Manager on 01994 231700 C.L.H.Trailers Old Station Yard Station Station Yard Old Road S St Clears Road Station S IR ES RE PA RE AL S PA RE SA33 4DQ St Clears HI S SA33 4DQ Specialists in Custom-Built Trailers BUILDING SUPPLIES LLP Large Range of Spares & Accessories Towbars Fitted or D.I.Y Kits Wide Range of Trailers for Hire Free Prompt Local Deliveries BUILDING SPPLIES LLP Galvanising Service available For expert advice ‘phone Chris on: Opening Times:- Tel/Fax:- Mon-Fri 7.00-5.30 01994 230055 Sat 7.00-12 01994 230239 Blewgyd Farm, St Clears NEUADD PENTREF BANCYFELIN VILLAGE HALL Planning a party? Looking for a regular meeting place? Want rehearsal space? We have the ideal venue Large hall can seat 150+ Fully equipped stage Smaller meeting room Modern kitchen Additional services (catering, bar, bouncy castle etc) on request Children’s parties a speciality Contact Bruce Wallace 01 267 211207/07817 583720 brucewallace@bancyfelin.co.uk Runnett & Meidrim Road Co St Clears SA33 4DW Property Lawyers Tel: 01994 230400 Fax: 01994 231198 e-mail: enquiries@remove-it.co.uk Walsall House, Pentre Road, St Clears, Carmarthenshire SA33 4LR Specialists in computer disposals, repairs and refurbishment Tel 01994 230988 · Fax 01994 231126 www.runnett.co.uk · post@runnett.co.uk Sanclêr Times Issue 22: Autumn 2009 Editorial: Mike Fletcher Advertising: Tom Brown Page 14

Craft Centre Re-Opens Following our analysis of these figures, we feel that the poor responses are possibly due to a lack of clarity in the question, along with a lack of communication from ourselves. The Carmarthenshire Centre for Crafts, under the aegis of the County Council, has opened its doors again for We would like to remind patients that if they genuinely need business following a major refurbishment programme to be seen urgently, you should advise the receptionist ac- costing £430,000 during which most of the external cordingly. In such cases, every effort will be made to accom- walls were treated to prevent moisture ingress and the modate you within the above timescales. internal accommodation restructured to reflect more on the needs of the community. There are now three for- Patients are able to book an appointment for up to 6 weeks in mal meeting rooms, appropriately named Cynin, Taf and advance, providing the GP in question is available and not on Tywi. The Town Council will be using the former, which leave for any reason. The fact that a GP or healthcare profes- contains a board room table and leather chairs, for its sional is already booked up for a week or so in advance, does monthly meetings. Taf is a theatre-style room for which not mean that you are unable to book further ahead. In ef- display equipment can be provided and Tywi is an infor- fect, we would expect a 100% positive response to the sec- mal room with chairs and coffee tables. ond question. Originally an old mill, the building became part of Car- The responses we get to these questions affects the level of income the Practice generates, which in turn affects the level of services we can provide to our patients. Despite the relatively poor response figure, we will endeavour not to cut our staffing and levels of services to our patients. Your past, present and future support is greatly appreciated. Please feel free to forward any suggestions for improving our Pictured from L to R are Cllr Philip Hughes welcoming visitors after officially services to the Practice Manager. If desired, this can be done opening the new facilities, the Cynin meeting room and early users of the new anonymously by posting in the "Repeat Prescriptions" boxes. cafe In light of feedback from our internal survey, we have decided to upgrade our telephone system, in order to overcome diffi- marthen and Pumsaint Farmers in the early 20th century culties encountered by patients phoning us for appointments but was sold as part of that company’s rationalisation. It in the mornings. Quite often, patients encounter an engaged re-opened as West Wales Centre for Crafts in the late tone when all in-coming lines are being utilised. We hope to 1990s and has now been re-named Carmarthenshire install a "queuing" system to overcome this, saving patients Centre for Crafts. from having to re-dial. We also hope to use this new system to direct calls to the appropriate team member, thus making The public will be pleased to see the re-introduction of the system more efficient for all concerned. the café which shares the ground floor with a gift shop and exhibition area. Local artists are well catered for New Surgery. No further information is available at this with studios and a pottery facility. time, due to matters outside our control. Contact Vivien Young tel 232726 Flu Season. We are expecting a greater uptake for vaccination requests this year for both flu and pneumonia. If you are Coach & Horses Surgery - Patient aged 65 or over and wish to have the pneumonia vaccination Survey Feedback this year, please advise us as soon as possible, in order that we may order sufficient doses of the vaccine. You only need From Laurence Jackman, Practice Manager this once, not every year. Following feedback from January's Postal Survey, there Summer Bash in Bancyfelin appears to be some confusion amongst our patients with From Bruce Wallace regards to how our appointment system operates. The only feedback we get from the survey is around the fol- On a generally fine and sunny day the Carmarthen Twirlers, lowing 2 questions. along with Gethin Davies, chairman of Bancyfelin Village Hall Committee, led the floats through the village to the Hall. "Think about the last time you tried to see a GP or There were some very imaginative entries. The Fox and healthcare professional fairly quickly. Were you able to Hounds were winners, bringing swine flu to the area with see a GP or healthcare professional on the same or next three dancing pigs, a real piglet, and some fine art work. day the GP surgery was open?" "Last time you tried to, were you are able to get an appointment with a GP or healthcare professional more than 2 full days in advance?" Unfortunately, the results of the survey were disappoint- ing, particularly for the second question For the first question, 85% of patients who responded said they were able to see a GP or healthcare profes- The village sports were held in the evening, with Richard Tho- sional within the timescales. mas winning the marathon. He was presented with the Dulcie Davies perpetual cup. For the second question, only 72% of patients who responded said they were able to book an appointment at Social evening entertainment was provided at the Fox and least 2 days ahead. Hounds. Sanclêr Times Issue 22: Autumn 2009 Editorial: Mike Fletcher Advertising: Tom Brown Page 15

Cyngor Tref Sanclêr/St Clears Town Fated Summer Fête? Council Quarterly Report Text from Juvenile Sports Committee. Images from Alan Evans From Lynn Bowen, Town Clerk - 230994 July witnessed an important annual event in the St Clears calendar as the Juvenile Sports jamboree on the Banc y Car Boot Sale Bailie took place. Sadly, as in two previous years it was af- fected by rain and some competitions had to be postponed. The weekly car boot sales organised by members of the Town Council are gaining in popularity. The car boot sales Despite the inclement weather the fête was well supported are held in St Clears Car Park every Friday from 9.00am. but the sports events had to be postponed until later in the Pitch fee is £5. year. A date has not yet been set. Town Council Meetings The St Clears Juvenile Sports Committee would like to thank all those who supported this year’s proceedings. Jeff For their July meeting the Town Council returned to the Gronow, Chairman of the committee, said he was delighted newly refurbished Carmarthenshire Centre for Crafts. The with the support of local business, other voluntary organisa- Craft Centre was re-opened on the 6th July and a number of tions and the community as a whole for attending on such a events have been arranged for the Summer. The Town Coun- wet day. He also paid credit to the small band of volunteers cil wish the Craft Centre every success for the future. who prepared the field and assisted in its organisation on The Town Council is very grateful to Members of the Boating the day. Club for allowing use of their premises during the period that the Craft Centre was being refurbished The crowning of the Queens ceremony and the fancy dress competition took place in marquees on the field. The 2009 Eric Raymond Memorial Shield Summer Queen was Kirsty Mason, Rose Queen Ffion Ellis, Fairy Queen Hannah Richards and Prince Charming David At the conclusion of the July meeting of the Town Council the Thomas. Town Mayor presented Major Richard Barrett with the Eric Raymond Memorial Shield for being nominated as the St Clears Town Council Sports Personality of the Year 2008. Major Barrett was awarded the Eric Raymond Memorial Shield for outstanding performances in Orienteering for the British Army, a sport that incorporates accurate navigation with cross country running. After the presentation Richard paid tribute to the influence of 2nd St. Clears Cub Scouts as this was where he was first introduced to maps, under the watchful eye of the then Scout Master Harcourt John. Richard continued to develop his map reading skills with the Scouts and his running improved under his school maths teacher and coach, Eric Evans. As a keen member of TROTS running club was introduced to the sport of orienteering by the late Peter Houseman and Rhy- dian Howells, two founding members of the now highly successful running club. Richard, Peter, Rhydian, Alistair Powell and Mark Jenkins were some of the club members who began travelling all over the UK to compete in major orienteering competitions, including an all night relay in the lake district, the Scottish six days and the now well established 'Croeso' event, six days of magnificent orienteering in Wales held every four years. His most memorable event with TROT was a trip to Gothenburg, Sweden to compete in the largest orienteering event in the world attracting well over 20,000 com- petitors of all ages. Richard, an HR professional with the AGC Staff and Personnel Support branch is now based in Surrey with 1 Royal Anglian Regiment, an Infantry battalion with whom he deployed to Afghanistan in the summer of 2007. He is married to Petra 2009 Summer Queen Kirsty Mason and they have two children, Nicolas aged five and Laura age three. In the course of his career he has travelled throughout Scandinavia, the Baltics, North America and he deployed to Kenya for six memorable weeks on a training exercise that included a safari and a three day ascent of mount Kenya. Richard was keen to stress that the opportunities and experi- ences that his Army service have brought would be hard to match in any other career and his orienteering skills and physical fitness have been enhanced through his military service. He is now a qualified level 1 orienteering coach and is hoping to develop this further with Swansea Bay Orienteering Club (SBOC). Richard the current Inter Services Orienteering Fancy Dress contestants Scooby, Champion is due to leave full time service with the Army in Shaggy and Fred ( Janice, Naomi and October and is hoping to work in Sports and Recreation man- Elaine from Cafi San Cler) and Cave- agement. He is also the current Welsh Orienteering Cham- women (Mandy, Angel, Sue and Rhian) pion. Sanclêr Times Issue 22: Autumn 2009 Editorial: Mike Fletcher Advertising: Tom Brown Page 16

Sancler Times Issue 22

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