Barmouth News 11

BARMOUTH GARDENING CLUB.

Members Evening. After toasting in the New Year with mulled wine, this month members had a lovely presentation by Val Vines on the ITALIAN GARDENS she had visited. As this was quite short the group went on to watch the Tatton Park Garden Show & various other gardens. Val was thanked for the most professional presentation, which was accompanied by inspiring music. To finish the evening a light, but tasty, buffet supplied by all the members, was enjoyed by everyone. The next meeting is on Tuesday, 14 February in the Parlwr Bach, when the speaker, Dr John Smith, will talk about the effect of global warming on gardens. Visitors & new members will be most welcome.

Inter societies quiz
Last Wednesday saw about 25 people enjoy the annual Inter Societies Quiz night. It was organised, this year, by Bermo Arts. A vote of thanks on behalf of the other societies was proposed by Barry Rampton The Quiz was followed by refreshments. It was just a shame that having added U3A to the clubs involved the overall turn out was so low.

Kids disco
Valentines disco for under II's will be held in the Buffs on 11th Feb from 2pm till 5pm. Get your best clothes on as there will be prizes for best dressed king & queen. disco and party games price £2-00 includes buffet for the children, soft drinks can be purchased at the bar. Any contributions of food will be gratefully accepted . Contact Rita Hunter Johnson for more information

IT Skills
There will be a Free Drop In session at Dolgellau college on Thursday 9th February for anyone who wants to find out how to improve their I.T. skills It will be held in the Business point centre at the college from 10am till 2pm. There will be people on hand who can tell you about sessions, courses and funding support for training. You can also call 08454 505960 for further details.

Lit & Deb
The Inter-Societies Quiz this year was hosted by Bermo Arts with their Chairman, Keith Barber firing off questions to all assembled. The teams taking part in this annual “Battle of Brains” were made up from, The Lit & Deb, Bermo Arts, Cymdeithas Gymraeg and U3A. The quiz composed of 6 categories ranging from sport, history, geography etc each with 10 questions in each category. The winning table was an amalgam of The Lit & Deb and Bermo Arts, namely, Colin and Alma Havercroft, Barry Rampton and Rhian Griffith. It was a great evening which stretched the little grey cells to the extreme. Thanks to Keith Barber and his team were offered by Lit & Deb President, Barry Rampton. Next wee k the Speaker will be Dr. John Smith talking about Mountain Medicine. New members and guests are always welcome.

BarmouthU3A.
At Barmouth U3A's first Monthly Gathering of 2012, on Wednesday 11th
January, members were delighted to welcome Islwyn Humphries, an
ex-Barmouth resident, who now lives in Anglesey. For the last ten years
Islwyn has been a member of the Samaritans, and in his talk he gave us a
wonderful insight into that organisation. He described the history and
evolution of the movement, supplied some impressive statistics, and then
moved on to describe the excellent training and support network provided
to members in their difficult task. Islwyn's obvious dedication to his
work as a Samaritan came over most clearly, and listening to his talk
was a moving experience. Members responded warmly to his talk, and many
questions were asked by the audience. We all felt it was a privilege to
listen to him.

Merioneth Yacht Club

The New Year started at the club with a sumptuous buffet provided mainly by the Social Committee with help from members. It proved a very enjoyable and relaxed evening with many members attending coming from far and wide and enjoying the excellent food. The darts team also started the New Year off on a high note winning their match by default as the opposition failed to arrive. Last week they took part in the Barmouth league doubles, again doing well with the Captain and Vice Captain only failing in the semi-finals. Considering this is the team’s first season in the league the progress they are making is very encouraging. If you would like to join the team please come along on a Wednesday evening. The ever-popular Open Mic evening at the club will commence on January 27^th and fortnightly thereafter. Anyone wishing to take part in these musical extravaganzas please come along. New members will always be made welcome.

The Barmouth and Dyffryn United Football Club continues to improve its ground facilities in Wern Mynach, Barmouth for the benefit of players of all ages and spectators. Its latest initiative has been the installation of floodlights beside its junior team pitch. To finance the development of such first class facilities the Club has embarked upon a number of fund raising events. For example a recent Christmas raffle for a large TV raised £640; the raffle winner was Julia Hughes from Tal Y Bont. The completion of the 2011 “100 Club” Draw has also raised significant sums for the Club; details of the winners of the latest draw are available at the Mermaid Fish Bar, Jubilee Road, Barmouth. The Club’s next fund raising initiative will be a “Casino Night” at the R.A.O.B (Buffs) Club, Barmouth, on Saturday, 18^th February, starting at 7pm; activities will include horse racing films, roulette tables, and a prize draw at the end of the evening. Entrance Tickets are now available at £10 per ticket; for further details and purchase of tickets please contact either Wil Huntley, Club Chairman, Mermaid Fish Bar, Tel No 079127 48875, or Brian Wood, Club Secretary, Bron Ddwynant, Barmouth, Tel No 01341 280103.

Lit & Deb

On Thursday evening, 12^th January the long awaited culmination of the Life & Times of Captain David Clayton was heard by members of the Society. Barmouth’s own 20^th century buccaneer relayed part two of his saga, which began during last year’s session. It took the form of Dessert Island Discs with his wife, Gwenda taking the part of Roy Plumley. The second part of this fascinating story was as interesting as the first and carried on from his time when his ship harassed the North Koreans during the Korean War. On his return he proposed to Gwenda and they were later married in Dolgellau. From then on his life was a series of home and seagoing postings often being away from his family for many months at a time. At one time he was seconded to the Royal Malayan Navy and was based for some time in Singapore. On one of his trips his ship circumnavigated the world showing the flag where ever they went. It was during his time in the navy that he developed an interest in the law and studied, finally being called to the Bar 50 years ago. He took part in many Court Marshals dispensing justice and also he presided over many civilian cases when the judiciary were overstretched. He eventually reached the high office of Chief Judge Advocate to the Navy. His choice of music was also interesting with his favourite piece, The Pearl Fishers Duet by Bizet being the first members heard. His luxury item he chose to accompany him to his dessert island was a bottle of Remy Martin. He was thanked by the President, Mr Barry Rampton.

Blanket

Age Concern would like to thank Mrs Beryl Bradly for a beautiful knitted bedspread she donated. It was raffled and £100 of the proceeds went to Age Concern

Speaker

The speaker at the last meeting of the Literary and Debating Society was Mr John Muston who had spoken last year on leading an expedition to Greenland. Introduced by the Chairman of the evening Mr Michel Benson, he told the society of a British Army expedition he led in 1982 to Nepal for 58 days comprising 16 soldiers, including 2 ladies. They had lived in tents and were led by a team of local guides . Mr Muston treated his large audience to wonderful views of the Himalayan foothills and spoke of the living conditions of the poor but happy people. A vote of thanks was proposed by Mr Alistair MacFarlane.

Beavers

Beaver scouts for boys and girls age from 6 to 8 are starting in the new Youth Club at the Pavilion. They will meet from 5-15 to 6-15 on Thursdays during term time. If you want to know more you are welcome to call in for a chat with organiser Erin or call Debbie Tanner the development officer for the Scouts on 01407 832192 or mobile 07920506368.

Royal British Legion

Will all members please note that the first meeting of 2012 will take place at the RAOB Club, as usual at 7.30pm. The Chairman is looking forward to seeing as many members as possible attending..

Barmouth U3A.
At the next Barmouth U3A Monthly Gathering on Wednesday February 8th,
Bryony Swinfen, Community Links Officer for the RSPB, will be giving a
talk on the RSPB reserves at Ynys-hir and on the Mawddach Estuary, which
will be accompanied by slides. This will be held in the Parlwr Mawr at
the Dragon Theatre, Barmouth. All are welcome to observe , new members are similarly welcome.

Indoor Car boot sale

The sales in the Dragon Theatres parlwrs restart on Saturday 21^st January. Contact Carl Hayward for further details on 07979 783 126

Chinese New Year

On Mon 23rd January the ‘Year of the Dragon’ begins so on Saturday 21st Ardudwy Youth Theatre’s Chinese Dragon will perform outside The Original Factory Shop

With Fortune Cookies, Chinese Horoscopes & other treats on sale at around 10am. If wet they will be found in the Dragon Theatre

Jazz nights

Vocalist Marcia Pendlebury’s eclectic mix of styles will be backed by a talented handpicked

Band for the Barmouth Jazz Club that will meet on January 27th in the Arts Room of The Dragon Theatre! They will be supported by singer and songwriter Osian Morris from Dolgellau. Tickets £9These musician are popular in the area so booking strongly recommended, Call Danny Jones on 01341 280 903.

Bermo Arts Follies

Bermo Arts will present an evening of sketches & songs in the Arts Room at the Dragon Theatre. see poster for menu. Bar open. Booking is essential to facilitate catering. Tickets will cost £10 and the price includes a home cooked meal and dessert. They are only available from Communities First, Station Road.

The first meeting of the New Year is traditionally the Vice Presidents evening and this year Mr Michel Benson introduced Captain David Bailey, who told his captivated audience f his 42 years at sea. After leaving the Thames Nautical Training School he joined the Blue Funnel Line as an apprentice deck officer in January 1967rising to become a Master Mariner in 1977 and later taking command in 1992 until his retirement in 2009. His career was not one of entertaining passengers at the Captains table. After working with the Blue Funnel line, P&O Containers, P&O Ned Lloyd and finally Maerk Line in his many years at sea. Captain Bailey told of the many changes in shipping through the years including that from bulk carriers to giant container ships Having travelled most of the world he was able to talk about the perils of sea travel that include fire, collision , damage to containers and to ships, the worst being experienced in the Bay of Biscay and the Northern Pacific. Captain Bailey was always happy to return to his home overlooking the beautiful Mawddach estuary and to enjoy views better than many seen on his long travels. A vote of thanks was given by Mrs Norma Stockford. The next meeting will be held on Thursday 12^th January when Mrs Glenda Clayton will present Captain David Clayton R.N. in Desert Island Discs.

The support received over Christmas and through the preceding year was gratefully acknowledged by the local group. The raffle at the shop raised £257 there being six prize winners. The Tombola raised a further £181-50. The “Traditional carols at the Locker” on December 20thwas well supported despite the wet weather. A raffle raised £147 The enthusiastic singing was accompanied by Chris Knowles. It was good to have Glyn Roberts singing too . Those present enjoyed mulled wine and mince pies. Father Christmas visited and gave gifts to both young and old. Many thanks are sent to Greg And Debbie for their hospitality and to Nicky and her stafrf at the Locker who helped make the evening such a special event..

R.A.O.B. Kids Party

Again another successful party was acheived with about 80 children attendingf and receiving a present from Santa Thanks go to thecompere Ray Mercer, the Littel Elves, Andy Nimmo and Richard Jones and the girls who looked after the catering and children during the day. Special thanks go to Mark and staff at the Co-Op Barmouth for their donations and help and to Will from the Mermaid, the Brothers of the Cader Idris Lodge for their donations and to the Mayor, who enjoyed himself taking part on the day and the Town Council. Brother Stan Stebbings and Brother M.Tookey were also thanked for their contribution. The Club look forward to seeing everyone at next years event.

Hughs views

The ever popular coffee mornings with a chance to see pictures from the community gallery on the big screen will next be held in mid March. To date the site has received 530,000 hits and contains 3,300 photos.

There is free parking in Cyngor Gwynedd car parks up to December 27^th. Drivers should be aware that the on street parking restrictions still apply year round , if traffic wardens visit the town an infringements would still be penalised so it is better to make use of the free parking while it is on offer.

Car boot stop

The weekly Car Boot Sales that have been held in the Dragon Theatre will re-commence on Saturday January 21^st.

Communities First

There is much speculation over the future of Communities First. From information received this week it is clear that there are unlikely to be any major changes in the next 15 months. The programme developed by the Welsh Government is currently being re-designed. The Partnership of Barmouth Communities First will look at the programme when it is unveiled along with other options available to them and decide the way forward that best serves the needs of the local community. The Partnership will consult with the community to ensure that any changes bring additional benefits to the area. It is not known at present if the Trust Fund will be available from April but the local staff will be happy to help groups search for suitable funding for projects from a variety of sources. The work programme for the next financial year will be drawn up in January.

Lit and Deb

Recently the Past President, Mr Colin Havercroft, beguiled members with a talk recalling Musical Memories. This was a look into his past where he relived memories expressed through music. Starting from his time at the Turret School where he first became aware of the power of music through his time with the school percussion band. Members then travelled back through time encountering on the way pieces of music that had influenced Mr Havercroft throughout his life.

Music from Brahms, Wagner, and Bruch, singers like Joseph Locke and Elizabeth Schwartzkopf and comic songs by Frank Cummit were featured.

It was a very interesting evening and a very novel way of looking into the past of a very well-known local resident.

The residing President, Mr Barry Rampton offered the vote of thanks saying that it was really a wonderful evening especially due to the fact that Mr Havercroft was still recovering from very serious illness.

This beautiful little church overlooking the Mawddach estuary, once the private chapel to Plas Caerdeon held it’s annual Carol Service last Sunday, 11^th December. Flaming torches lighted the way to the church and on entering the visitors were beguiled by wonderful decorations and flickering candles. It was a perfect setting for this traditional Candlelit service, which over the past few years has become accepted in Barmouth as heralding the beginning of the festive season and the large congregation which had gathered there was a testament to it’s popularity. The rector of Barmouth, Rev Kevin Horswell, conducted the Service and the organist was Owain Pritchard

It was a magical evening with the call to worship being presented by Derek Munday followed by the St Philip’s Singers Choir opening the singing with the lovely advent carol, O come O come Emmanuel” The congregation then followed filling the evening with all the ever-popular carols. Eight Christmas readings were also read telling the Christmas story and describing the events leading up to the birth of Jesus. There was also a duet, singing, Dawel Nos Ddwyfol Nos, the St Philip Singers then gave their version of What Child is This, a trio, from the choir then sang that beautiful well known carol Three Kings and Mary Munday read a modern parable. After wards there was mulled wine and mince pies to warm the homeward bound congregation. The collection from the Service will be forwarded to Hope House and amounted to a grand total of £280. The PCC of St Philip’s wish to thank all those who read and sang and who were extremely generous in their contributions to this very worthwhile Children’s Charity.

Merioneth Yacht Club ( Photo accompanies)(Barmouth Lifeboat Crew for the Children’s Christmas Party)

In it’s first season in the Barmouth Wednesday Darts League the club experienced it’s first win by beating the Min-y-Mor, five games to four. It had been neck and neck throughout the evening but the MYC managed to snatch victory in the last doubles game. This is an obviously warning to all the other teams in the league that the club is shaking itself free from the bottom and is on it’s way upwards.

The team under the captaincy of Paul Johnson consisted of, Neil Sheehan, Roy Burford, Bruce Milczarek, Dion Pritchard and Steve Sheehan.

The following evening the club held it’s Christmas Quiz and Supper Evening with the team, “The Desdemonas”, claiming the first prize. And “The Years”, bringing up the rear. A great fun evening.

On the Saturday the club hosted the local RNLI Children’s Christmas party with over 20 youngsters enjoying a fun day with hot dogs and other delicacies. Presents from Father Christmas were distributed, who had arrived with the help of the lifeboat men on the inshore rescue boat due to the fact that he had problems with his sleigh, not enough snow here!. The club is always looking for new members you are invited to go along and enjoy some of the many facilities the club has to offer.

RNLI THANK-YOU MORNING

It was thanks all round at the Barmouth RNLI Lifeboathouse on Thursday morning the 1^st December when a thank-you coffee-morning had been arranged to acknowledge the hard work and dedication put in by fundraising volunteers over the previous year. Debbie Ferns, the RNLI Community Fundraising Manager for North Wales thanked all the enthusiastic supporters who were delighted to hear that to date, Barmouth was the second highest fundraising branch throughout North Wales. A short film was shown, a compilation of news items and lifeboat ‘shouts’ across the UK. This was an excellent way of raising awareness of exactly what is involved when our lifeboats put to sea. The meeting were also told about an initiative called ‘All Hands on Deck’ whereby members of the public can get involved in volunteering for the lifesaving charity even if they can’t always offer a regular commitment. Further information of this opportunity to get involved in this rewarding lifesaving work is available at www.rnli.org.uk. A special vote of thanks went to June Davies who manages the RNLI souvenir shop. June reported that a profit of £18,301.40 had been made on souvenir sales this year, an 8.5% in increase on the previous year. June thanked the diligent group of volunteers who man the shop throughout the summer season, with especial mention for those who had stepped in to cover shifts at the last minute. She also thanked Ena Ridley and her band of volunteers from Fairbourne who work tirelessly each year to raise money on the other side of the water. Thanks were also due to Linda who keeps a supply of RNLI Christmas Cards and calendars for sale in her shop on the harbour. Future events include the SOS sponsored walk a ‘Saunter on the Sands’ (or run!) on Saturday 28 ^th January 2011. It will be followed by a thank-you bowl of soup at the Lifeboat house afterwards. The coxswain, crew and friends will again be taking a New Year’s Day dip in the sea at about 11 a.m. on 1^stJanuary 2012. This is to be followed by a well-earned and warming barbecue brunch. So if you need to work off some of those extra inches gained over the festive season, you are most welcome to come and join us. If you want to take part in either event, sponsor forms can be obtained from the Lifeboathouse. The Meirion Amateur Radio Society will be hosting their annual fundraising event during the week up to the sponsored walk. They will set up their radio station in the Lifeboat house at 9 a.m. on the 28^th January and to contact other radio enthusiasts all over the world. They move to the Merioneth Yacht Club that evening and work throughout the night raising money for the RNLI. Members of the public are invited to the boathouse or the yacht club to see their progress, and you can have the chance to speak to people in the UK, Europe and the USA. They have even made contact with the International Space Station. M.A.R.S. has been an active supporter of the Barmouth branch of the RNLI for the several years and last year were winners of an award for the highest amount collected for charity by an amateur radio station in the UK.

Mr. Richard Poole who was for many years a Tutor at Coleg Harlech gave a Literary evening at Barmouth +Lit. & Deb. Society on the 24^th Nov. He read many of his own poems including natural history poems inspired by local places, poems by T. H. Parry-Williams and excerpts from his acclaimed fantasy novels. It became a very different and personal evening., enjoyed by all. The talk on Dec.1^st will be by Mr. Haydn Hughes from Gwynedd Council on ‘Environment Issues’, and on Dec. 8^th a Members Evening of a Dickensian Christmas will be held.

Meirion was sung unaccompanied. Several members were celebrating birthdays this month. Thirteen names were proposed and seconded for the 2012 committee. Monica Buggy proposed that Mair Jones remained as President, seconded by Sybil Jones. Minutes of the last minutes were read and signed. After the usual business was over, all the annual reports were given and adopted by the members. The president gave a report of the Autumn Council held in Rhyd-y-Maen on November 1st. The members and committee were thanked by the president for their support over the past year, particularly Rose Morris for her commitment and hard work as Barmouth treasurer. The new committee then elected the officers to serve for the coming year.

If you are not in education, employment or training and are aged between 16 and 25 Community Music Wales have something to offer you. If you have an interest in any form of music you will have a chance to try out several activities as diverse as djing, performing, music production and much more. Spread over 15 weeks the sessions can be held in Barmouth so there is no travel cost, you can join in even if you are on job seekers allowance. If you would like full details call into Communities First and talk to Martin or Denise,it could be a great start to the New Year.

Mawddach Rotary Club organised the first paddlesports festival earlier this year and have decided from the response they got to develop the idea further for 2012. They have set an initial date of 26^th and 27^th May so accommodation providers may wish to note this for their marketing. Main event include a 10km Tidal Ascent, a 20km Estuary challenge a 10km Open canoe raft race and many inner harbour events. The money raised goes to local good causes and to Hope house Childrens Hospice.

The Coffee Morning at Hafan Deg on Tuesday 6^th December raised £176-65. This was made possible by the generosity of those who suppoerted the event and by those who donated raffle prizes.

The residents of Hafan Deg and Maes Teg would like to say a big thank you to members of Barmouth and Dyffryn Football team who cleared paths of moss and leaves and generally tidied around the buildings. Their input was much appreciated and left the area looking much better.

The now famous Buffs Christmas Party that welcomes any child aged 12 and under will be held this year on 17^th Decvember. It will be opened by the Mayor, Mark James at 1pm. Entry is free and parents are invited to accompany their children. There will be a raffle as well as a visit from Santa.

George Smith memorial

Further to the notification earlier about the passing of former Barmouth resident and business owner George Smith a service will be held at Christchurch in Barmouth for remembrance on Friday 30^th December 2011 at 12:00hrs. George Smith passed away during the latter part of June at his home in France. Donations in memory of George will be gratefully received towards “Alzheimer’s Research UK” and the “National Memorial Arboretum” c/o Mark Kelly, 4 Catchford View, Upper Newbold, Chesterfield, Derbyshire S41 8XZ There will be some light refreshments available in the Christchurch Schoolrooms afterwards. It is his Mrs Smith’s wish to have the cremated remains scattered, close to their former home near Barmouth at Goetre in Sylfaen Valley with family members attending.

The North Wales Air Ambulance fund received a generous boost this week. Local couple Betty and Bobby Glyn Evans celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on 24th November. In place of gifts to mark the occasion they

asked for donations for the benefit of the Air Ambulance. A total of£250.00 was raised. The happy couple celebrated their day with their family and also received a congratulatory card from her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

The sun shone and the day was warm with strong blustery winds as the Remembrance Parade wound it’s Solemn way to the War Memorial in Park Road last Sunday.

Previous to this there had been a Remembrance Service in St John’s conducted by the Rector of Barmouth, Rev. Kevin Horswell with Organist Owain Pritchard. Five Standards were paraded this year, The Royal British Legion carried by Barry Rampton, the Royal British Legion Women’s Section carried by Max Heron, the newly reformed Army Cadet’s Standard, the Guide’s flag was carried by Rebecca Knight with escort, Rebecca Springel and the Brownies by Eloise Knight with escorts Kitty Parker and Kes Triggs.

The Legion’s Branch President, Mr Peter Crabtree JP and Chairman Cllr. Trefor Roberts said the Exhortation and Kohima Epitaph. Elis Matthewson read this year’s poem, “The Kitchener Chap” by Horace Bray with great feeling both in church and at the Memorial.

The theme of the Rector’s sermon was Remembrance, “blessed are the peacemakers” and why we wear a Poppy. He began by getting the Rainbows to recite this sentence, “ We are hear to remember and respect brave people”, and they are never too young to remember!

At the War Memorial Wreaths were laid by many organisations and clubs under the guidance of Parade Marshal, Trefor Roberts.

There had also been on 11^th November at the 11^th hour an Act of Homage at the Memorial.

The Barmouth Branch of the Royal British Legion wish to thank all those who took part in the Ceremonies and made the day fitting for those who made “The Supreme Sacrifice.”

Last Thursday saw a well attended meting with the speaker Mr Robin Ward of Magnox who spoke on the Decommissioning of Trawsfynnydd Nuclear Power Plant. Although the station has been closed since 1992 it now has over 600 people making the plant safe and it has sent high level waste to Sellafield plant to be re-processed. What is left is low level waste that will be encased in concrete boxes and entombed in the new buildings on the site, which will become a possible nature reserve after 2026. The meeting on November 17^th will be entitled “Musical memories”, the speaker will be Mr Colin Havercroft and will be Chaired by Barry Rampton.

Mawddach Rotary have organised a Bread and Cheese evening with live music from Angelesey band “The usual suspects” who populat blues and swing. The event will raise money for the clubs Shelter Box Appeal. It will be held in the Arts Room of the Dragon Theatre on Friday night, 18^th November at 7-30pm. Tickets cost £10

Bermo Arts have planned an evening of sketches and songs that will accompany a hot meal for Friday December 2^nd . The venue will be the Arts Room at the Dragon Theatre. Tickets at £10 each are available through the Communities First office.

Lit & Deb

At the meeting of Barmouth Literary and debating Society the speaker was Mr George Sanders and his subject was “Story times a personal miscellany”. Mr Derek Gladstone was in the chair and there were 27 people present. The speakers considerable knowledge in the world of literature was amply demonstrated by the wide field of stories from which he drew. These ranges from Robert Louis Stevenson to Anton Chekov by way of Charles Dickens, Rosemary Timperley and Axel Munthe. In each example Mr Sanders used his skill as a reader to bring out the dramatic content The readings were interspersed with comments which helped the audience to appreciate the craft of the writers which had made the stories such important works of art. Mrs Rachel Cleaver thanked the speaker and underlined his popularity by mentioning that this was the seventh time he had addressed the Society. The next meeting will be on November 10th in the Parlwr Mawr at 7-30pm when the subject will be” The decommissioning of the Trawsfynnydd power station.

Bonfire

The Emergency Services and the Residents Association are to be congratulated on the smooth running of this years Community Bonfire that was held on the beach by the Bath House. A fine night and easy parking meant that the turnout was even higher than in previous years but there were sufficient marshals to ensure that both the pedestrian and vehicle traffic moved quickly and without incident. It is hoped that those attending donated generously to the official collectors as money will be needed for next years event. Fund raising events take place throughout the year, part of the hard work done by the small team that many do not realise is happening.

Spectacular

Last Wednesday the National Theatre of Wales brought an amazingly spectacular production to Barmouth, it is the sort of event that will be remembered by the audience for many years. It was staged in a way that enabled local performers to take part. To have a production in Barmouth that in bigger cities would probably have had ticket prices four or five times those charged at the Dragon is amazing in itself. Subsidies by the Arts Council and the National Theatre enable these high value productions to be brought to rural areas at accessible prices. The reputation gained by N.T.W. for imaginative, high quality theatre ensured a full house on the night.

Royal British Legion

The branch held their AGM recently at the Sailor’s Institute with Cllr. Trefor Roberts officiating. After reports from the President, Mr Peter Crabtree JP and Cllr Roberts, the following members were elected to serve on the committee for the coming year.

President, Mr P. Crabtree, Chairman, Cllr. Roberts, Hon. Secretary, Mr B Rampton, Hon. Treasurer, Mr R Hodgson, membership Secretary and Poppy Appeal Organiser, Mr Neil McMaster and Standard Bearer, Mr B Rampton. Remembrance Sunday is on 13^th November in St Johns Church at 10.45am and following the Service the congregation will makes it’s way to the War Memorial for the laying of Wreaths. Will all Standard Bearers and those taking part in the Service please be in St John’s at 11.00am on Saturday 12^th November for a rehearsal. On Friday 11^th at 11.00am at the War Memorial there will be an Act of Homage, please come along and show support for our Armed Forces personnel who in many fields of conflict over the years made the supreme sacrifice.

End the weekend

The Min Y Mor Hotel will be hosting a live music session on Sunday 13^th from 4pm all are welcome to go along. Call 01341 280555 for more details.

The Free community Bonfire will be lit near the Bath House on Barmouth seafront on Saturday night. The Emergency Services along with Barmouth Residents Association have worked all year to raise funds and ensure a safe and enjoyable event for all. The promenade car park will be free. Batala Bermo will lead the procession from the Lifeboat Station ,at around 6pm, of lantern carrying mask wearing people of all ages. The fire will be lit at 6-30pm, topped by the first prize winning entry in the Guy competition. Everyone is invited to take part and watch the spectacular firework display that will begin at 7pm. There will be collectors with buckets for donations everyone is asked to contribute just £2 to help fund the event and give a start to next years fundraising.

Advertising scam

Local traders should be aware that calls have been received by local people from someone claiming to be the Barmouth Community Crime Press Officer. Enquiries with North Wales Police confirm that other calls of a similar nature have been made throughout North Wales recently. The caller claims to be selling advertising on behalf of the Police for a publication that is coming out locally soon. Again Police confirm that no such publication exists. One thoughtful local businessman retained the callers number on his phone, this has been passed to the Police for investigation.

At the monthly meeting on 26th Oct. the president welcomed two young guests, relatives of Glenys Williams. Members were saddened to hear of the death of Judy Linley, a former Barmouth member. Congratulations were extended to Marie Leese and Sharon Vincent on their recent respective engagements and to Mrs Hallard on the birth of her great granddaughter, Elen Sian Thomas, also congratulations to Ben Williams on his coming marriage to Jane Bailey. Kevin Snow from the youth centre has invited W.I. members to go and integrate with his young members on Friday 4th November between 5-6.30pm. After the formal business of the night, members were reminded of various events to come, including a weekly knitting circle, darts at Bala on 21st November, bingo at Llanelltyd on 17th November and a request for helpers to serve food on Bonfire night. The guest speaker was Beryl Hadland, who showed how she creates lovely 3D cards. She brought a wonderful display of craft work using all kinds of materials including minute beads for decorating baubles etc. she explained that it took many hours and lots of patience to create these beautiful items. She donated a boxed card for a raffle prize which was won by Monica Buggy. Beryl was warmly thanked by Janet Davies. Next meeting is the AGM on Wednesday 23rd November.

Barmouth ‘Lit & Deb’ meet every Thursday in Parlwr Mawr, Community Centre at 7.30pm. This week the members were treated to an interesting talk about ‘Llandanwg Past & Present’ given by Mr. Tony Bowers. The talk covered the 4 ‘W’s. ‘W’here the church is built.’ W’hy was the church built where it is, ‘W’hen was the church built and its’ history, ‘W’ho was St. Tanwg. The talk highlighted many points of interest which brings visitors such as educational parties from schools, Universities, etc. as well as foreign parts – in the meeting there were visitors from USA. Mr. Bowers spoke about the geography of the region and it association with Ireland and Bardsey. He spoke about the history through to today. The activities of the church, such as the flower festival, the August bank holiday concert given by the Harlech Silver band, weddings, also the association between Llandanwg and Huchenfeld in Germany. A lot of local history was explained leaving the audience a desire to find out more.

The next meeting of the Barmouth Literary and Debating Society will be This Thursday 3 November , the subject being ‘Story time – a Miscellany’ by Mr George Sanders, a local man with many a tale to tell. The following week , 10 November the subject will be ‘The Decommissioning of Trawsfynedd Power Station’ by Mr Robin Ward of Magnox (also a local man).

On the 20^th October Mr. Keith O’Brien from Trawsfynydd entertained Barmouth Literary & Debating Society with a talk about the Military Camp at Rhiw Goch. With some excellent old photographs and archive material it was a sometimes humorous but always fascinating insight into how the landscape and lives of local people were affected by the intrusion of several hundred soldiers and horses into the area of Trawsfynydd. The next meeting will take place on the 27^th October with a talk by Mr. Tony Bowers about Llandanwg Past & Present and on the 3^rd November Mr. George Sanders is the Speaker on ‘Story Time- A Miscellany’

Age Concern

The Local Age Concern group would be grateful for any donations of dark coloured yarn. It will be used in their craft projects. Communities First in Station Road have agreed to be the drop off point. Any amount that you have spare will be useful.

Fourth Friday Jazz

Rag Mama Rag consisting of Ashley & Deborah Dow are one of Europe’s top Country Blues duos. They have been persuaded to include the Dragon Theatre on their tour of the UK and can be seen on Friday 28^th October at 7-30pm. Contact Danny Jones for tickets and more details on 01341 280 903.

Village Social

The National Theatre of Wales has been to Barmouth and has produced work involving local people. It will be in Barmouth on November 2^nd hoping to draw a big audience for a comedy musical that once again needs local participation. If you are between 15 and 25 and available for the day please contract Martin at Communities First or call him on 01341 280979. The show will be at 7-30 in the Dragon Theatre it will be an unique experience for the audience and performers. Be in it or be in the audience for an amazing night.

Community Bonfire night

The combined Emergency Services with Barmouth Residents Association are tying up the loose ends for this years community bonfire that will be held near the Bath House on Bonfire Night. The Samba Band will lead the procession down to the site in time for the lighting of the fire at 6-30. The Fireworks will start at 7pm. Free parking has been arranged for the evening but everyone is asked to contribute £2 to the collectors on the night to help fund next years event

Lit & Deb

The President of the Society, Mr Barry Rampton welcomed everyone to the 92^nd year of the Society, which commenced with a very inspiring and illuminating talk by Mrs Norma Stockford, Publicity Officer of the world famous, Three Peaks race. Dr. Rob Howarth sitting around his kitchen table conceived the idea for this gruelling race of sailing 389 miles, climbing 11,000ft, and running 73 miles but it was his friend, Dr. Merfyn Jones who suggested making into a race. They set out a route and Dr. Jones spent many days checking out the course. They invited Major “Bill” Tillman to be President and then everything was ready for the start of the first Three Peaks Race in 1977. Five boats left Barmouth for Caernarfon and on arrival two runners ran up Snowdon. Then it was on to Ravenglass, which was the port for the runners to disembark for the run up Scafell. In 2000 this was changed to Whitehaven and because of the distance to Scafell bicycles could now be used for the first 15 miles. From here it was on to the final destination, Corpath where runner have to run up Ben Nevis and return to the finish for the culmination of this epic voyage. Mrs Stockford explained very eloquently the complexities of organising the race, which is all done by volunteers and the roles that the Sponsors take in the event. Start day is a great occasion for Barmouth, with Samba Bands, stalls bunting and displays heralding the start. With teams coming from around the world to take part there is a wonderful atmosphere. They follow the lifeboat out and at a predetermined time the race is on.

John Barnes, Sports Editor of the Times said, after he had completed the race, “All you need is legs to take you up the hills, a good stomach to take the sea, and a crew that can take you anywhere” It was an extremely good evening with excellent narrative and photographs and Dr Munday thanked her for her efforts.

The next talk on October 20^th is “The Military Camp at Rhiw Goch” given by Mr Keith O’Brien, new members always welcome, 7.30pm Parlwr Mawr.

Sunny Rhyl

Sunny Rhyl is a comedy drama about Francis and Lola. An unlikely pair in an innocent seaside town that can’t help but change. It was written by Paul Kelly and directed by Steve Davies.It is suitable for all ages and will be performed in the Dragon theatre on Thursday 27^th October at 7-30pm. Tickets can be reserved in advance or purchased at the door

Barmouth Gardening Club

The October meeting of the Club was held in the Parlwr Bach and after welcoming members and guests this month’s Chairperson, Barbara Rampton introduced Carole Carol who demonstrated Christmas floral decorations. Carole proceeded to produce five excellent arrangements using all types of flowers and holders. Her final demonstration was a flamboyant display perched on top of a bowl of baubles which was very enthusiastically appreciated. This was then used as a raffle prize which was won by Dewina Lewis. After thanking Carole for her speed and imagination the evening ended with tea and biscuits served by Jinny Jeffs. The next meeting which is the Club’s AGM is in Tuesday 8^th November.

Barmouth U3A.
The next Monthly Gathering, which will be held on November 9th at the
Dragon Theatre, Barmouth, will be led by Alison Smedley, a Holistic
Aromatherapist from Dolgellau. She we lead members on a hands-on look into
the art and science of aromatherapy, with plenty of chance for experimentation. 1.30 for 2pm in the Parlwr Mawr. Non-members welcome.

On Friday 27^th October in the Dragon Theatre Cor Meibion Bro Glyndwr Male Voice Choir will sing Reggae with Jamaican Reggae star Kwabena Nipadadae. They will be supported by pop heart-throb Leon Z and Barmouth’s own Batala Bermo Brazilian Samba Reggae drummers. The cost will be £10 each , £5 Children or £25 Family .

Publicity Coffee morning

The group that manages the tourism publicity for Barmouth is called Barmouth Publicity Association, it produces the Barmouth Brochure and was responsible for the creation of the Walking Festival that has become a successful and enjoyable feature of the tourism calendar locally. It is time for the A.G.M. and in an attempt to draw more local people to contribute to the development of marketing for the town the group have arranged a Coffee Morning to go with the AGM on Thursday 27^th October starting at 10am which will include a large display of Barmouth Brochures stretching back a very long time. It will be interesting to see how ideas and tourism products have changed over the years. A very warm welcome is extended to everyone. After the Coffee morning, at 12-15 there will be the AGM where people can ask questions and make suggestions. Given the trading difficulties that all businesses are finding around Britain it is essential that Barmouth businesses work together to make sure that every possible opportunity is maximised.

National Theatre of Wales

“Village Social” is the name of a touring production that mixes professional actors with local people. If you saw or took part5 in For Moutain Sea and Sand you will know how much fun can be had. Young people from 15 to 25 are needed to take part in the production in Barmouth that will be staged in the Dragon on November 2^nd. You will work with the NTW team on the day and take part in the performance in the evening. The show is said to be a cross between League of Gentlemen, Vicar of Dibley and the Wicker Man, it is not like anything you have seen or done before but if you are willing to have a go contact Martin at Communities First on 01341 280979 as soon as possible and he will pass the details to NTW.

Community Bonfire

The combined Emergency Services with Barmouth Residents Association are tying up the loose ends for this years community bonfire that will be held near the Bath House on Bonfire Night. The Samba Band wqill lead the procession down to the site in time for the lighting of the fire at 6-30. The Fireworks will start at 7pm. Free parking has been arranged for the evening but everyone is asked to contribute £2 to the collectors on the night to help fund next years event

Barneys

A free course is being offered to local people who want to learn how to create a website on their mobile phone. It is equally suitable for personal or business use so anyone can take part. Barney ran a free course last year on building sites for pc’s and laptops Sessions will be held at Communities first starting late October on Tuesday mornings from 10am till noon. If interested please call Denise or Nan on 01341 280979 or call in at the office.

Llais Ardudwy

Some may still not be aware that the Welsh medium monthly paper Llais Ardudwy is now available from the Communities First office in Station road.

Barmouth News 9/10/11

Barmouth Lit & Deb

Thursday 13^th October is the commencement of the Society’s 92^nd year and to open the season, Mrs Norma Stockford will give an insight into the beginnings of the Three Peaks Race. This could be seen as a continuation of Dr. Rob Howarth’s talk last year on Major Tilman, who along with Dr. Howarth started this exceptionally gruelling race, for both sailors and runners, which begins in Barmouth moves on to Whitehaven and culminates at Fort William. An evening not to be missed. The following Thursday will be a talk on the Military Camp at Fron Goch by Mr Keith O’Brien. The Lit & Deb meets in the Parlwr Mawr every Thursday over the winter commencing at 7.30pm and there is always an eclectic mixture of subjects offered to stimulate the “little grey cells” and promote discussion. New members, guest and visitors will be made very welcome. For further information on the Society please contact the President, Mr Barry Rampton 01341 280398

Free Bags

As the charge for carrier bags has come in to force Communities First are offering a free re-useable cotton bag to anyone who wants to call in to the office in Station Road and collect one

Barneys

School fund raiser

Ticket arrangements for the Race Night to be held at the Buffs on Saturday 15^th October from 7 till 11pm have been changed. Entry will now be free with an option of paying just £3 for a delicious chicken curry . Funds raised will go to supporting Ysgol y Traeth.

Llais Ardudwy

Some may still not be aware that the Welsh medium monthly paper Llais Ardudwy is now available from the Communities First office in Station road.

Reminder

“Hugh’s views” will be in the Arts Room of the Dragon Theatre on Monday 17^th at 10am. Money from sales of teas and coffees goes to aid the Theatre. Many new images have been added to the site so it will be a good chance to catch upand see lots of original photos.

Although this year’s weather has been the worst in the Festivals ten year history we still managed a record number of walkers, we had 122 Walkers this year doing just short of 350 walks. Welcoming 65 new walkers that were not on our mailing list which goes back to 2008 and 57 returning walkers , 53 of those had walked with us in 2010. They covered 30 different Grade A, B and C walks ranging from Cadair Idris Super Walk to strolls round Caerdeon & Goetre Isaf, climbing Rhinog Fawr; Cnicht; Moel Hebog; Arran Fwddwy; Y Garn; Rhobell Fawr; and all areas in between during the ten days from 17^th to the 26^th September 2011. The Monday saw the opening of the ‘ Taith Ardudwy’ and this also provided one of the walks covering the Southern Section on that day. All the Leaders and Assistants on the walks are from the local community and approximately 40 volunteers are involved in making the Barmouth Festival of Walking the success it has become. The photograph shows Mark James, the Mayor of Barmouth, opening this year’s Barmouth Festival of Walking on Saturday 17^th September 2011, walkers, leader and assistants ready for their walk to Foel Offrwm.

Prize winning film event

‘Kendal’ is one of the world’s major Mountain Film Festivals, an internationally

The Best of Kendal Film Tour features a two-hour selection of the very best, prize

winning films from the festival, presented by one of the organisers, Robin Ashcroft,

a mountaineer, sea kayaker, adventurer and author. It will be an unmissable evening at the Dragon on the evening of Friday 7th October starting at 7-30. Please contact the theatre on 01341 281697 for more details.

The Friends of Ysgol Y Traeth will be holding a Race Night to raise funds for the school. It will be held in the Buffs Club on Saturday 15^th October from 7 till 11pm. The tickets which will cost £5 at the door include a bowl of chicken curry. A good night is guaranteed with the chance to help the school at the same time.

Same Time Next Year

Following their production of Alan Bennets The Lady in the Van’ this is the welcome return for Theatre Rue’s with their new production “Same time next year” ‘ this bittersweet romantic comedy set in a motel room over many years. It will be performed at the Dragon Theatre on Saturday 15^th October at 7-30pm , tickets will cost £8.

Cambrian Coast Croquet Club,
The club has just finished another outdoor season at Hafod Wen, Harlech and would like to thank the owners, Mr & Mrs Chapman, for once again allowing them to use the croquet lawn. As from the 7th October will be playing indoors in the Barmouth Leisure Centre, 12-30 to 3-30 every Friday. New members are always welcome. Just go along and enjoy a free introductory session.

If you or anyone you know would be interested in joining a regular lunch club that would offer a two course hot meal at reasonable cost please contact Denise at Communities First or call 01341 280979 to register your interest. It will be an opportunity to get out of the house and enjoy a meal with other people. Daw3n Robinson of Elim Church in Park road has generously made their building available for this as it has easy access and is centrally located.

Hughs Views

The next chance to have a look at the community gallery on the big screen will be on Monday 17^th October 10am in the Arts Room of the Dragon Theatre. New images are continuing to flow in and the gallery is attracting in excess of 500 viewers a day on the internet. Recently a new record was reached when 3028 people viewed the site in a single day. As usual Communities First will pay for the hire of the Arts Room and the money from the sale of teas and coffees will go to benefit theatre funds.

Amendment

In last weeks report on the fundraising event for the Huntingdons Disease Charity it was incorrectly stated that the sum raised was £19-59 it was in fact £1136-59. Much hard work had gone into the organisation of this valuable event and it is good to be able to report that a worthwhile amount was raised in response.

Jazz workshop

Mike Walker, an international guitarist, will run a jazz improvisation weekend at the Dragon

Theatre for the Barmouth Music Workshop group on1st and 2^nd October. The Saturday night will provide an opportunity for the members to put into practice what he has taught them during a relaxed Jam Session that will be open to anyone interested. Call 01341 280 903 for workshop details. the cost for the Jam Session will be £2 on the door.

Al ac Ant

Dewch i ‘flasu’ eu cynhyrchiad theatrig cyntaf - mae’n sicir o fod yn brofiad i’w gofio!

A brand new, welsh language theatre production starring S4C presenters Al & Ant.

Cwmni Theatr ARAD GOCH Galwch / call 01341 281 697 i gadw seddi / to reserve seats

Prize winning film event

‘Kendal’ is one of the world’s major Mountain Film Festivals, an internationally

The Best of Kendal Film Tour features a two-hour selection of the very best, prize

winning films from the festival, presented by one of the organisers, Robin Ashcroft,

BARMOUTH AND DYFFRYN UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB CUP MATCH AND BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS 1^st October, 2011.

Following our Team’s success in winning their preliminary Welsh Cup fixtures, the Barmouth and Dyffryn United Football Club now face a major challenge in a First Round Welsh Cup Proper home match against Ruthin Town on Saturday, 1^st October. Ruthin Town are currently placed in the middle of the Cymru Alliance League, a League above the Welsh Alliance League in which we compete. So please come and support our First Team players at our Wern Mynach pitch at the end of Park Road, Barmouth on Saturday. Another reason to attend this match is that we shall be celebrating Tom Hughes’ 80^th Birthday this coming week-end. Tom has been a loyal supporter of the Barmouth Club since 1949 when he made his debut as a goalkeeper. Since then he has been a player, manager, physio,and groundsman. In March, 2008, he was awarded the coveted Football Association of Wales Long Meritorious Award, given to people who have given unbroken support for Welsh football for over 25 years. Today he is our Football Club’s Honorary Life President. Your support for our Football Club and Tom’s birthday celebrations next Saturday will be much appreciated.

The Parish of Llanaber, Barmouth with Caerdeon Harvest Festival and Autumn Fair

A Harvest Messy Church will take place in St. Johns Church Barmouth next Sunday, 2nd October at 11.00 am. Everybody who has attended Messy Church in the past has enjoyed these family orientated fun filled events. All are welcome! Also The Parish Gift Day will take place on the following Thursday 6th October from 10.00 am in the Dragon Theatre. Coffee and biscuits, cake stalls, soup available at lunch time and lots more!

C.A.P.Money course

If you would like to develop confidence in handling money, whatever your age or ability you are invited to take part in free information sessions There will be a three-session course to help you manage your money and live your life. It is free to attend and will be running on three Saturday’s from 15^th October from 10am till 4pm. To book a place please ring 01341 280770 or 01766 540566. More information about C.A.P. can be found on www.capmney.org

Huntingdon’s Disease Charity

Despite the miserable weather on Bank Holiday Saturday loyal supporters, many elderly, ventured out to attend this years event which was sponsored by LL DIY Home and Garden Centre, Barmouth and held at Fronygraig by kind permission of Gwynfor and Maureen Owen and family. The organisers would like to thank all who helped on thre day and worked hard to ensure such a successful result. They much appreciated donations received andare grateful to the many Barmouth shopkeepers who willingly provided raffle prizes. The excellent sum o £19-59 has been raised for Huntingdon’s Disease Research.

Barmouth Communities First Partnership along with Meirionnydd Older Peoples forum have set up a luncheon club for older people that will be hosted by Elim Church in Park Road. The first lunch will be served on Thursday 6^th October at 12 noon. A two course hot meal at a reasonable price will be provided, cooked by staff at Hafod Mawddach. If you would like to go along or know someone who might like to join please contact Denise at Communities First or call her on 1341 280979 to reserve a place

How to

Have you ever wondered how to make a website on your phone or mobile device; something less complicated than a full sized site? Learn how to create effective sites that work on small screens with 6 free sessions with Barney at Communities First starting on Tuesday mornings from 18^th October 10am till 12noon. Call in or phone 01341 280979 to reserve your place. Suitable for anyone but maybe especially good for small businesses looking to improve their e-trading.

Barmouth Lit & Deb Society

(Photo-Immediate Past President Colin Havercroft presenting the symbol of Office to this year’s, President Barry Rampton)

The new session commences its 92^nd year on Thursday 13^th October with an interesting talk on the Three Peaks Race, given by Norma Stockford. This should prove a very interesting evening following on from last years talk on Major Bill Tillman given by Dr. Rob Howarth. There will be, over the season, 19 various talks, quizzes and debates culminating with the Annual Dinner and finally the AGM. Items such as Llandanwg, Rhiw Goch, Music, Poetry, Environment Issues, The Himalayas, Gaza and the early days of Barmouth plus many other topics will be presented by very eloquent speakers.

If you are interested and would like an evening of stimulating conversation, why not come along? The society meets every Thursday evening at 7.30pm in the Parlwr Mawr.

New Boxing Club

A registration night will be held on Thursday 29th Sept at the Hall at the Min y Mor Hotel from 7pm to 8pm.There will be limited spaces for the training nights on a Monday and a Wednesday .The club will accept kids from 10 years upwards, however children under12 should be accompanied by an adult .Membership fee will be £10 to include insurance .Equipment is supplied.This organisation will be run by local people Tim Brown ,Dave Turner, Neville Manderson and Phil Hill .Anybody willing to help please contact Phil on 07881742793.

W.I. COUNTY BOWLING COMPETITION ( photos by Hugh Roberts accompanies)
Six teams of W.I. ladies came from all over Meirionydd to compete in the annual County Bowls competition on Monday 5th September. It was held in Barmouth this year and the teams were from Aberdyfi, Bala, Brithdir, Cynwyd and two teams from Barmouth. The weather looked very bleak first thing in the morning, but despite this, the games went ahead and luckily it stayed dry throughout the day. The teams were split into two round robins with two games of eight ends being played before breaking for lunch, and one game after lunch. This resulted in Aberdyfi and Bala going on to play in the finals This was an exciting game and Bala deservedly won. The trophies were presented by Jane Slater. A delicious tea was then provided by Barmouth W.I. who were thanked by Jane, and the several prizes in the raffle were drawn by Gretta Cartwright. Mair Jones, Barmouth W.I. President, who had been very busy all day providing cups of tea for everyone, thanked Ifor Evans and his friends for organising and helping throughout the day. Everyone agreed that it had been most successful.
Arts Festival

Another festival closed on Saturday with the rousing Cor Bro Meirion reverberating around the magnificent St John’s Church a truly superb setting for a big sound. This new choir is setting itself the task of exploring new repertoires and produced a well balanced and engaging concert . The contrast with the surreal performance in the Arts Room of Mr and Mrs Clark’s medicine show highlights the massive mix of arts that the festival produces. Equally well received the two shows could not have been more different but both sent people home at the end of the evening feeling that they had experienced something amazing that can only be created by live performances. Thursdays comedy and music event gave people the feel of a noson lawen and created a great atmosphere in which everyone relaxed and enjoyed the songs and stories. Wednesdays drama from Paradisi was well crafted, sharply written and very professional, as are all their offerings. Tuesday was a step change into Jazz with Liane Carroll an intimate evening where the performer was able to converse with the audience and build an excellent rapport. Monday was an exploration of the life of Richard Burton, a show that has been performed at the Edinburgh Fringe no less. The organisers are already being approached by performers who want to take part in next years festival, clearly this event is firmly rooted in the arts scene of Wales and seen as one in which many wish to be included.

Money and energy

The Moneyadviceservice and the Energy Saving Trust are teaming up to offer a unique service in Barmouth on Friday September 23^rd from 10-30 till 3-30. They will operate a drop in where anyone can ask for information and advice about anything to do with either of these subjects. The finance part will cover savings, loans, investments, financial planning, advice on how to manage money while the Energy Saving Trust will help you cut the cost of running your home with suggestions about fuel tariffs, heating, insulation and operating appliances . No appointments are necessary just call in to see what they are offering.

A fundraising night for British heart Foundation will be held at Hendre Coed holiday park on Friday 23^rd September. There is an option to have a three course meal that will be served from 6 - 8pm, for this you will need to pre book by calling 01341 280597, the cost will be £25. If you prefer you can arrive at 7pm and pay just £5 that will include a raffle ticket and enjoy the disco . All funds raised will be used for the benefit of the charity.

The Heart of Wales Road Rally for vintage lorries will be passing through Barmouth on Saturday 17^th September. Over 60 lorries resplendent in their original colour schemes will be stopping on the main car park in Barmouth between 11am and 2pm before continuing on their journey to Llanberis.

30-08-11 Barmouth News

Box office

The Box Office for the Arts Festival opens on September 1^st daily between 10am and noon in the foyer of the Dragon Theatre. Advance sales have been good so if you want to be sure of tickets for your favoured event it would be a good idea to call in and reserve tickets as soon as you are able.

Nightingale House Hospice are asking for volunteers, preferably who live in the Barmouth area, to help them at their Dolgellau to Barmouth Summer Stroll event which takes place on Saturday 10^th September at 11am. It is a 9.5 mile sponsored walk along the Mawddach Trail to help raise much-needed funds for the Hospice. Volunteers will be needed for a variety of activities such as marshalling with the walkers at the start, middle or end of a group, as stationary marshals along the route helping with directions etc., or helping to register the walkers of the event. Volunteers will need to be available from 8.30am onwards. If you are interested in helping, or if you would like to register for the walk itself which is £10 for adults, £5 for Children (under 5’s are free) or £25 for a family of two adults and two children then please get in touch by calling 01978 314 292 or visiting www.nightingalehouse.co.uk for more information.

Barmouth U3A Monthly Gathering.
At the Barmouth U3A Monthly Gathering on Wednesday September 14^th members of Machynlleth U3A Drama Group will be reading a short play written by their Writing Group, whose members will also be coming. The play is called “Broken Threads” and concerns a Welsh family whose members are assembled for their mother's funeral. Family matters hitherto kept secret emerge as the play progresses. Please note, this monthly gathering will be at 2pm for 2.30pm, later than usual at the Dragon Theatre, Barmouth.

Parish of Llanaber with Barmouth

Last month, another 'Messy Church' was held and once again it was a great success. Nearly 40 children took part with their parents. 'Messy Church' is a family orientated activity; there are crafts, games, food and worship. It's free to everyone, but children must be accompanied by an adult. All who attended agreed to having a great time! This is our third 'Messy Church' so look out for the next one.

From Thursday 25th August to Monday 29th there will be a flower festival in Saint David's Church, on the quay, entitled 'For All The Saints', and is a joint effort from the ladies of St Mary's, St John's and St David's and also the ladies of St. Phillips, Caerdeon. This is being held in memory of our past parish wardens Margaret Newport and Pam Walker; both ladies are sadly missed. An opening service will be held in Saint David's at lO am, Thursday morning. The church has been dosed for several months while extensive structural repairs to the roof timbers and a new roof have been put on, a project that could not have gone ahead without a generous £45,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Good wishes

Parishioners of the Parish of Llanaber with Barmouth send best wishes to their Curate, Rev. Linda Bailey on her mission to Palestine. She is wished her every success in the venture and they pray that she will return safely in time for the birth of her third grandchild.

RNLI results

The collection which was held on Thursday 4^th August resulted in a total of £1542-10 as follows: Barmouth £503-19, Fairbourne £112.85, Shell Island £463-03 this amount was then matched by the management of Shell Island adding a further £463-03. Thanks are sent to all concerned for their interest and hard work in raising this commendable sum were extended by the promoter.

Meirion was sung accompanied on piano by Blodwen Comerford. Several members will be celebrating birthdays during the next month. A gift and card were sent to Eira Goodchild who recently celebrated her 100th birthday. Minutes of June meeting were read and signed. Thirty five people enjoyed the annual W. I. summer day out. The July county letter and various other correspondence were read. Members were urged by their president to encourage people to use their local library, which alongside many others could be facing closure through cutbacks. Eight members will be representing Barmouth in Newtown on Sept.17th at the Inter-federation Sports Day. Harlech W.I. are to be congratulated on their Silver Gilt Award at the R.H.S flower show at Tatton Park. This was a members night which included a table top sale(£71.00 was raised for the funds), a quiz, and cheese and wine refreshments, which were enjoyed by all.

Huntingdons disease

On Saturday 27^th August, a Charity Day will be held at Fron Y Graig forecourt, opposite Natwest Bank, Barmouth by kind permission of Gwynfor and Maureen Owen. The stalls will open at 11am and the raffle will be drawn at 1-30pm. The proceeds will go to Huntingdons Disease Research

London Triathlon

Peter Vine ran in the London Triathlon on 31^st July to raise funds for Save The Children Fund, he had 106 local sponsors and raised £508.

The Communities First Trust Fund is available to local clubs and societies but not to individuals or businesses. If your club or society is looking for funding for an event, a project or for equipment call in to the Communities First office in Station Road and discuss your needs with Martin or Denise. Normally the fund is open till the end of January but as part of the changes to Communities First the fund will only accept applications up to November this year.

Army Cadet Force Presentations ( Photos show Cadets with the certificates of achievement and Sergeant Lee Williams receiving a cheque for £3300 from Martin Williams and Denise Bott of Communities First)

Barmouth Army Cadet Force re-established in Barmouth last October and became a rapid and substantial success. Currently there are 23 Cadets in Barmouth. Sergeant Lee Williams, by whose hard work along with that of his Second in Command the group has thrived, wanted to reward the Cadets for the hard work they had done and for the progress they had made. Mark James, Mayor of Barmouth was invited on stage to accept thanks for the financial support given by the Town Council, Mr James said a few words in appreciation of the work that had gone into restarting the group and highlighted the benefits to the Cadets and to the community of the opportunities offered to the young people of Barmouth. Commemorative photos were taken of the Cadets receiving their awards and a picture was taken showing the presentation of a cheque for £300 for the Communities First Trust Fund. The evening also included a film about the ACF and a demonstration of how equipment is stripped cleaned and re-assembled. Family and friends of the Cadets enjoyed an informative social evening. A follow up event is planned for the autumn.

Of course you can

If you are considering getting a job, maybe for the first time or perhaps after a gap you may be interested in a programme of sessions that is being offered free in Barmouth. All the things that get in the way of getting the job you want can be tackled, this could be the start of something good because the sessions aim to build your confidence, show you how to give the best impression, mix with others, write an effective c.v and much more. Surprisingly, you may think, it also teaches you some photographic skills as part of the programme. If you want to know more call in to Communities First office and collect a leaflet or email busnesryri@hotmail.co.uk

Why Not Drop In

The independent Y Not Drop In that is currently hosted in the book shop of Elim Church in Park road is open every Monday as well as every Thursday to welcome anyone who fancies a chat and some contact with other people. Everyone is welcome, it is not a religious organisation so people of any or no faith are equally welcome. Open ing times are 10am till 1pm Monday and 10am to 2pm on Thursday. From time to time art, music or craft activities are organised and members arrange trips out from time to time.

Dance Workshops

The series of dance workshops for youngsters is currently being run by the Barmouth Childcare Partnership on Wednesday and Friday each week in the Pavilion leisure centre, these compliment the summer play scheme that has been running, funded through the same group. Sessions cost £2 each There is still time to join, contact Denise Bott on 280979 or the leisure centre on 280111.

Motown in town

Last years session with the Sensations was a sell out, the eight piece Motown style band will be back at the Dragon Theatre on Saturday 20^th August at 8-15 pm. If you want tickets and a really energetic night call 01341 281697.

Radio

With ongoing help from the National Theatre of Wales a group in Barmouth have set about creating an online radio station. The National Theatre paid for a visit to Barmouth of Keith Murrel from a community radio station in Cardiff who gave a great deal of information from which the group has taken inspiration. The energetic team is currently looking at the development of content that can be stored as podcasts. Currently music and drama are being worked on by young residents but there is endless scope for more. The project has three strands:- content, management and technical, if you would like to be part of this exciting community group please contact Martin in Communities First who will be happy to put you in contact with other members of the group.

Barmouth News 1^st August

My brilliant divorce

Paradisi Theatre Company will be running their brilliant one woman comedy that explores the life of the main character after her husbands mid life crisis. There is lots of insight in the writing and it is hilariously funny too. Mondays at the Dragon throughout August at 7-30pm.

Wanted one body

Bermo Arts Summer show this year is a period piece comedy, mystery murder story The array of characters will ensure a lively evening that will keep you guessing till the last moment. Wednesdays throughout August in the Dragon at 7-30pm

The management of the centre is now run as a company the “Dragon Barmouth Ltd.,”. The six Directors are Melville Penzer, Roy Treherne, Mair Jones, Geraldine Vincent, Val Vine and Christine Leese, who report to the members every two months. Manager Allison Williams is looking forward to a busy summer. More people are now realising the versatility of the facilities and this will hopefully help revenue, rising costs are always a problem. The Dragon Diary is now available, for a copy ring 01341 281697.

National Play Day

In celebration of this years National Play Day a free play session has been arrangedat the Pavilion Leisure Centre Barmouth on Friday 5^th August from 1pm till 3pm. Children of all ages will be very welcome to join in the fun and activities at this family event. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Family Day

On Friday last Barmouth Childcare Partnership held one of a series of family play events. Youngsters were able to use all the play equipment at the leisure centre and were also able to take part in making fresh fruit salads and salad pittas to help them understand how to eat well and enjoy the colours and flavours of various fruits and salad items Fridays event will include free play and craft activities, contact the centre on 01341 280111 for details of times.

My brilliant divorce

Paradisi Theatre Company will be running their brilliant one woman comedy that explores the life of the main character after her husbands mid life crisi. There is lots of insight in the writing and it is hilariously funny too. Mondays at the Dragon throughout August at 7-30pm.

Wanted one body

Yellow leaflets

By now the town should be a sea of yellow leaflets , the traditional sign that the annual Arts Festival is getting close. If you cannot find one contact the Tourist information Centre, the Dragon Theatre or Communities First all have supplies at present.

The sixth monthly meeting started with the singing of Meirion accompanied by Blodwen Comerford. The President told members that Eira Goodchild will be celebrating her 100th birthday in July, and a card and gift would be purchased and sent via her daughters Anne & Liz. Mary Smallwood will be attending a Buckingham Palace Garden Party with her daughter Victoria. 20 teams attended the quiz night at Rhyd-y-Maen and the winners were The Mawddach Four from Barmouth. Pam Payton gave her report on the AGM in Liverpool, and was thanked by Mair, the President. As there was no guest speaker, each member was asked where their favourite place was and why. Most members talked of places in and around Barmouth, but others talked of more exotic places. The next meeting will be a members meeting on July 27th.

St Mary’s Coffee

St Mary’s Church, Llanaber, held its annual Coffee Evening on 8^th June as in previous years at the Jesuits house, once more by kind permission of Brother Ken Vance. Thanks are expressed to all who supported the evening and to the helpers who together made it such a happy occasion. A pleasing and much needed total of £602 was raised for Church funds.

The recent Family Fun Day was a huge success. The sun shone and the school field was filled with music fun and games. The total amount raised was over £900which has been spent on groundwork for the new academy pitch at Wern Mynach. The Club would like to thank everybody involved who made this day a success, especially Charles at Las Vegas amusements for his kind sponsorship and to Wyn at Hen-Llan Bread , Adrian at Iceland and Wayne at Spar for their donations. It is hoped that this will become an annual event for the club

Ron Barnard Trophy ( Photo Margaret Williams receiving the Ron Barnard Trophy)

Margaret Williams is the winner this year of the Ron Barnard Trophy . The match was played at Barmouth Bowling Club on Saturday, 9th. July another day of glorious summer weather. The presentation of the trophy was made by the late Ron Barnard's grandson. The event was captured with a photograph taken by Hugh Roberts

Dog training

Dog training classes will be starting soon in Bontddu village hall. Classes will cover basic obedience training. If you and your dog would like to go along please contact Jan on 01341 430 269 to book a place.

Money Advice Service

Nigel Jacks who works for Citizens Advice Bureau represented the Money Advice Service provided by the Westminster Government in Barmouth last Thursday when he ran an open door session offering advice on any issue relating to finance. He will arrange his next session for early September when again people will be able to drop in and get answers to their finance questions.

Elfyn Llwyd will be holding his monthly surgery in Barmouth at Communities First on Friday 1^st July from 2pm till 2-30pm. No appointment needed, just drop in.

Free money advice

There will be free money advice sessions, delivered by the Citizens Advice Bureau on Thursday 7^th July between 10 am and 3pm. If you want guidance on anything to do with money from choosing energy suppliers to sorting out pensions or deciding how to finance a holiday Nigel Jacks will be on hand to advise you. You can make an appointment or just call into the Communities First offices in Station Road. You can also meet the Credit Union on the same day between 11am and 1pm, they have savings and loans schemes available.

BRA

Barmouth Residents Association will be holding their AGM in the poolroom of the Min Y Mor hotel on Monday 4^th July at 7pm. This will follow the monthly surgery held by Gareth Jones of Gwynedd Community Homes that begins at 6pm in the same place. All are welcome at either session just call in and have your say on any issue that is affecting you or that you would like to see change.

Local Heroes

Rita Hunter Johnson, Hugh Roberts and Craig Dobbins all received awards at the Mawddach Rotary awards ceremony that was held at the Dragon Theatre on Thursday last. The awards were in recognition of the work that each of them has done in the community to help make Barmouth the great place it is. Rita does a lot of work for the Residents Association and for local fund raising for a variety of causes as well as helping organise the annual fireworks night. Hugh Roberts has been responsible for the enormous amount of work that goes on to make the community gallery on the internet the best in Britain the site has now had over 400,ooo hits and hold over 3000 images donated by the local community. Craig Dobbins is well known around town for the recycling he does, collecting bottle tops, ring pulls, stamps, toner cartridges and old mobile phones for five different charities, he now covers an area from Bala to Machynlleth and over to Porthmadoc with his collecting buckets. All three have been justly recognised for their efforts.

Charity Race Night

The Friends of Ysgol Y Traeth will be holding their Race Night at the Buffs Club on Friday July 1^st. Doors open at 7pm and the first race will be run at 7-30pm. Entry costs £2 to include nibbles. You can be the “Owner” of a prestigious race horse for the night too. There will be cash prizes, a raffle and mystery prizes. All money raised will go to Ysgol Y Traeth

BarmouthU3A
On July 13th the Monthly Gathering of the Barmouth U3A will take the
form of an “Any Questions” session. Members will have a chance to
put their questions on matters great and small to the four volunteers
who are forming the panel, and will also have a chance to voice their
own opinions. U3A are looking forward to some lively interchanges of
ideas, and also to a cream tea afterwards. The meeting will be in the Parlwr
Mawr of the Dragon Theatre, Barmouth at 1.30 pm, non-members are
welcome.

Preparations are underway for the 2011 Powerbar Barmouth to Fort William Three Peaks Yacht Race, now in its 34th year. The boats leave Barmouth harbour at 3.00 p.m. on Saturday 25^th June 2011, but there will be music and entertainment on the quayside from mid-morning. This year’s event is once again full, with 32 entries and has again attracted international entries, the Australian Team Whistler, who came third in the 2010 race, a Belgian team – Flemish Lowlanders from Gent and Danu Technologies from Ireland. The temporary moorings have been laid and two or three boats have already arrived in the harbour with more expected over the next few days.

You can follow the race this year by going to Sanderson’s Estate Agents in beach road. They will have computer access to the website www.threepeaksyachtrace.co.uk which features profiles on all the teams and will carry daily race coverage, picture galleries and a race ‘leader board’ throughout race week. Sanderson’s have kindly agreed to let the general public access the race from their computer - so call in to get all the news. If you haven’t accessed the race website before, you’ll be surprised how easy it is to follow and you can check the actual positions of the yachts as the race progresses.

Community Fun Day ( Barmouth Fun Day Belly Dancers photo)

The event held on the field of Ysgol y Traeth on Saturday was the biggest yet with a large number of local groups and services taking a very active part in the days activities. Local groups were invited to promote their cause and raise money to further their work in the community. Fortunately the weather was good so that the parade along the promenade, the first event of the day could take place and alert people that things were happening on the school field. The beautifully decorated land train and procession of Fancy dressed followers drew many. The fearless revellers, who really entered into the spirit of the day then attempted, the Big Barmouth Boogie. This was followed by a colourful and exotic display of belly dancing which has, as a result, recruited some new members to that group. A change of pace but no less energy then came with the Karate display in the hall organised by Petros with his local students. Live music was provided and organised throughout the day by Neil Pigden who brought excellent local talent to the stage. All around the field stalls and games were provided by local people, which provided fun and information. Mike Jones as M.C. kept everyone informed so no one missed anything. All who took part are sent a massive thank you by the organisers

The Funday and parade along with the Big Barmouth Boogie will be taking place at Ysgol y Traeth from 11am till 3pm on Saturday18th by kind permission of Mr Ywain Myfyr, the Head of School. The bouncy castle along with games, Cornel Cymreag raffles, information stalls,Live music car boot sales and and choices of food will all be there. Free entry everyone welcome.

The U3A met as usual for their monthly gathering, on Wednesday 8th June, in Parlwr Mawr at the Dragon Theatre. A good turnout initially socialised over a cup of tea, & spent some money on the bring & buy stall, before listening to a presentation of the usual high standard. Irene Doody leads a Family History group & described the structure of a course which she runs on various techniques and methods which can be of benefit to anyone interested in such a fascinating subject. Starting from simply chatting to members of one's family, progressing to using local archives & parish registers, there is a wealth of fascinating information & history waiting out there, which can be accessed by any one of us. Bronwen Dorling thanked the speaker, & announced that the July meeting would be an Ask the Panel session, when a number of U3A members have volunteered as a panel, willing to be quizzed as to their opinions on various subjects...sounds fascinating, once again.

At the fifth monthly meeting Meirion was sung accompanied by Blodwen Comerford. The president thanked the "B" darts team for representing Barmouth at the Inter-federation darts match on May 11th at Bala. Unfortunately they lost to Aberdaron. Minutes of the April meeting were read and signed. Arrangements for the June trip are going well. Summer Fair at Barmouth is on 30th June in the Arts room. County letter for May was read. Eight W.I. members volunteered to assist Gwynedd Council by tiding up the walls around the leisure centre ready for planting. A team of 4 members will represent Barmouth at the Federation quiz at Rhyd-y -maen on 26th May. Members voted on 2 resolutions prior to the AGM in Liverpool. Our speaker was Margaret Walker, who filled in for Angela Bee who unfortunately was indisposed. She entertained us with anecdotes from her life as a vicars' wife. She is the author of 4 books, which are full of amusing tales of family life moving around the country wherever her husband was working. She was thanked warmly by Liz Roberts. Next meeting is on June 22nd.

A Barmouth resident celebrated a very special day and in so doing joined a very select group of people. Jane Williams reached her 100th year on Friday June 3rd and wishes to thank management and all the staff at Hafod Mawddach for arranging a party and making this a memorable day for her. She later went on to the Min y Mor hotel, to meet up with family who had gathered there to be with her on the day. Lastly to thank everyone, family, friends and neighbours for all the cards, flowers, presents and well wishes she received. Diolch yn fawr. Jinnie.

On Saturday June 25th there will be a collection day near the Co-Op store in Barmouth for the benefit of St Dunstans the charity that assists and trains people with sight impairment. With increasing numbers of people needing the unique help offered by the skilled staff the charity needs every penny that it can raise. If you can spare an hour or two to help collect spare change from passing shoppers please contact Mrs Daphne Dix on 01341 280573 who will be very glad to hear from you.

On Friday night the Dragon theatre will host Barmouth & Dyffryn Football Club’s fundraising event. An evening with Howard Marks is sure to be an interesting and unusual one. He was the subject of a film entitled, ”Mr Nice” story of drug trafficking, IRA involvement, jet set life style an American jail and ultimately a career touring the land talking about his complicated life. Tickets will be available at the door, the organisers would really appreciate your support.

Hughs Views will take place in the Arts Room of the Dragon theatre on Monday 27th June at 10am. It will be a chance to see some of the new pictures that have been received. New residents are invited to go along and learn more about the community of Barmouth and its amazing history. Many accomplished and fascinating characters began life, passed though or added to the rich pattern of this community. It is a living history carried in the memory of local people and readily passed to all. On this occassion there will be a special event that will recognise the value of the community gallery and those who have contributed to it.

Can anyone who has spare glitter, paints, pompoms, wool, feathers, etc. please leave them at the Communities First office to be used at the Fun Day ( 18^th June) on the children’s craft table

There will be an opportunity to see the fully restored “Chieftain” lifeboat that once saw service in Barmouth. After falling into a poor state the vessel was bought an restored by the present owners. Mr Tony Gatt plans to sail into Barmouth on the 12th June at around 3:00pm. The Chieftain was stationed in Barmouth from 1949 to 1982 and was launched 113 times, resulting in 132 lives saved.

After being sold out of service she changed hands a number of times. The current owner, Tony Gatt, found her on the east coast in a state of disrepair. He took her to South Wales and spent 6 years singlehandedly restoring her, entirely at his own expense. Tony's goal was to bring her back to Barmouth as soon as she was seaworthy.

He is putting together a collection of old photographs and information about The Chieftain. If anyone can assist with this, please contact Kathryn Gatt on 07774 248354 or email kathryngatt@live.com.

The Bowling club will be celebrating it’s centenary on Saturday 16th July. If you are a former member and would like to attend the dinner that will be held at the Min y Mor hotel please contact Mari on 01341 280043.

The Community fun Day and parade will be held on Saturday 18th June. If you fancy joining the fancy dress parade please be at the Lifeboat Station at about 11030. The Princes and princesses will arrive by land train from Ysgol y Traeth to lead the procession back to the field where there will be lots of activity through the afternoon with live music, belly dancing, good food, carboot and community stalls, Karate and hopefully the Big Barmouth Boogie at noon.

There have been two nominations for the vacant seat on Barmouth Town Council, they are Andrew Sanderson and Carl Hayward. Local people will make their choice in an election to be held on June 30th

The Paddle Sports weekend devised by Mawddach Rotary can be judged a success despite the events for Sunday having been cancelled due to extreme weather conditions. Those who took part on Saturday report that they thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The pictures show winning team in the Raft Race, Team Idris a Barmouth Team The Taster sessions will be repeated one day in the summer and once again Communities first will enable local people to take part by funding a number of tickets for those with an LL42 post code. The event raised over £3ooo which will be divided between Ty Gobaith Hope House and local causes, if you would like to suggest local causes that deserve to benefit please contact the Mawddach Rotary.

The show goes on

The Howard Marks show, ‘An Audience with Mr Nice’ is not cancelled and will go ahead as planned on the 17^th June. Tickets are available from the box office on 01341 281 697. It promises to be an interesting evening as anyone who saw the film of his life so far will tell you. The event is being run to help the Barmouth and Dyffryn Football club raise funds to improve the facilities at Wern Mynach.

Buffs OK

There has been speculation about the future of the Buffs Club, members are eager to point out that the club is in good health and already planning for the kids Christmas party which is an established highpoint in the Barmouth events calendar.

St Mary’s Church Coffee Evening

The Jesuits house in Llanaber is once again, the venue for the coffee Evening which will be held on Wednesday 8^th June at 7pm. A warm welcome is extended to all

Barmouth and Dyffryn United Football Club: Trophy Presentations evening, FRIDAY, 10^th JUNE, 2011.

The Barmouth and Dyffryn United Football Club has arranged a Trophy Presentations Evening at the RAOB (Buffs) Club in Barmouth on Friday, 10^th June, 2011, when trophies will be presented to the Club’s outstanding individual First and Reserve Team players during the 2010/2011 football season. The evening will start at 7pm, with free admission. There will then be a brief review at 7.30pm of our Club’s achievements during 2010/2011, followed by the Trophy presentations. Thereafter there will be a disco. Food and drinks will be available throughout the evening. All football players and their families, Football Club Annual and Life Members, match spectators, and football enthusiasts who would like to know more about our Club will be very welcome at this event. For further information please contact Wil Huntley, Club Chairman, mobile tel no 079127 48875, or Brian Wood, Club Secretary, tel no 01341 280103.

Handover ( Picture shows Cllr Phil Hill congratulating Cllr Mark James and Cllr Val McArdle)

May marks the end of the Mayoral year in Barmouth. it is therefore time to thank you to Cllr Phil Hill for the work he has put in during his year as Chairman of Barmouth Town Council and Mayor. It is also time to welcome the new Mayor Cllr Mark James along with his Deputy Cllr Val McArdle who will respectively hold the posts of Chair and Vice Chair on the Town Council. A vacancy currently exists for one Councillor, which will be filled following a local election.

Gallery

The community picture gallery which is on the www.Barmouth-Communities-First.org website received its highest ever one day level of hits last week, there were 3028 in a 24 hour period. The site now hosts 3002 images that have been given by local people and visitors. If you want to see some on the big screen go along to Hugh’s Views in the Arts room of the Dragon Theatre at 10am on Monday 27^th June. New residents will be warmly welcomed as it will be a chance for them to learn some of the history of their new home and a chance to talk to local people who are keeping the history of the town fresh and alive.

Citizens Advice Bureau

The dates for your diary for the Drop in sessions in Barmouth are 6^th and 20^th June then 4^th and 18^th July. All are Mondays. Sessions are held at Communities First meeting rooms. There is no need to book an appointment, just call in between 10am and 12-30 pm for free confidential advice.

Christian Aid week

Collections for Christian Aid Week this year raised a total of £445-61. All who contributed are thanked for their generosity

The RNLI Flag Day on August 4th approaches once more and as usual there is a need for volunteer collectors to stand with a collecting tin at key points around the town. It is an enjoyable task that only takes an hour or so and benefits a worthy cause. If you have an hour to spare please call William Burton on 01341 280704 he will be pleased to hear from you.

The Annual General Meeting of the Barmouth Branch of the University of
the Third Age was held on Wednesday May 11th at the Dragon Theatre,
Barmouth. The Chairlady, Evelyn Richardson, welcomed everyone and
reported on a successful year for the branch. Evelyn was re-elected as
Chairlady, with Rachel Cleaver remaining as Vice Chairlady and Marie
Thomas as Secretary. George Mandow, the outgoing Treasurer, was
warmly thanked for all his hard work for the branch, and Christina Cook
was elected as the new Treasurer. After the business part of the AGM
there was a welcome glass of wine accompanied by delicious cakes.
Members of the Writing Group, led by Norma Stockford, then talked about
the inspiration behind their work, and read pieces they had written.
These ranged from the poignant to the comical, and were greeted by warm
applause, rounding off a highly successful AGM.

Hugh’s Views

By popular demand the next “Hugh’s Views” will be on Monday 27^th June in the Arts room of the Dragon theatre at10am. New residents will be especially welcome as this will be a chance for them to learn about the community that they have joined and meet local people who will be happy to tell them about the history of the town. For this reason there will be a little more emphasis on the pictures of the town, many of which will be new to regular viewers. The site continues to grow , attracting viewers from around the world and a steady flow of new images to be added.

Health Walks

The new season of healthy leisure walks has started. The walks, led by local guides normally take between one and one and a half hours. They follow routes that take perhaps the promenade, the rail bridge or the foothills behind the town everyone is welcome to join, there is no charge for taking part. All walks begin at the pavilion leisure Centre at 6pm on Thursday evenings. For more information please call Mari on 01341 280043 or Ann on 01341 280065

Regard RSPCA

The recent coffee morning that was run by the Regard Partnerships staff and residents at their farm in Dyffryn was a very successful event. Along with the coffee there was a raffle and tombola and plant sale which raised a total of £262 which has been donated to the RSPCA. Thanks are due to all who put in the effort to make the day both fun and profitable.

Coffee Morning

There will be a Coffee Morning in ad of Bowel Cancer research that will be held by Deltyh and Cerian Morris on Saturday 28^th May from 10 till 12noon at 8 Heol y Sarn, on the estate in Barmouth. There will be a table sale, raffle, tombola, cakes and drinks please go along and support this important charities work.

A day of Live Music is being held at the Barmouth RNLI Boathouse on the promenade on Sunday 29^th May 2011 from 12 noon until 6.00 p.m. This is the Bank Holiday Sunday so it should attract plenty of interest.

Music of a variety of genres, including jazz, blues and acoustic guitar, will be played in front of the boathouse by local groups who are giving their services free to the RNLI for the day. In addition there will be table top stalls, a barbecue and, of course, a raffle. Raffle prizes include a meal for two at the Min-y-Môr Hotel on the Promenade and an opportunity to ‘Sing with the Band’. The raffle will be drawn at 5.30 p.m. Sharon Cooney, who has generously agreed to make all the arrangements to ensure the day a success, would be grateful for any donations towards the raffle and for volunteers to sell tickets and help with the barbecue. You can contact Sharon on 07894 160 840 if you would like to help.

Barmouth Junior s football teams have organised a Family Fun day for Saturday 4^th June that will be held on the school field from 10am. There will be all the usual attractions including a table top sale, Raffles Face Painting, Games and music by DJ Stanton. To book a table please call Christina Ryan on 07790393624

Clean sweep

Sustainability Wales along with partners from Gwynedd council and other agencies conducted “Total focus Barmouth “ last week. Businesses were visited by Council and Fire Service personnel to give them information. Dog walkers and smokers were advised of the rules relating to them about disposing of dog waste and cigarette ends. As part of the Focus, all the street bins were replaced with matching green and gold square ones. A recycling display was mounted in the Co-op car park thanks to the generosity of Mark Thomas the manager and his staff. Local school children from Ysgol y Traeth were on hand and were greeted by Mayor Of Barmouth Cllr Phil Hill. Local groups got involved too. W.I. cleaned out the walls around the leisure centre by the new Youth Centre. The Youth Club will now plant and maintain the walls. Gwynedd council have agreed to give them £100 worth of plants and compost to get started. Communities First, with help from residents of the Regard partnership will plant the two containers at the entrance to the Pavilion with fragrant herbs and plants. Warren who operates the kiosks and cafe has already planted the walls and beds facing the sea and created a colourful display. With the wonderful displays on the station and the high number of shops that have repainted their frontages the town looks in very good condition to welcome this years visitors.

The Paradisi Theatre company from Criccieth will be performing their hit version of the original stage play of Blood Brothers over the Bank Holiday weekend at the Dragon theatre in Barmouth . Shows will be on Monday 30th and Tuesday 31st at 8pm. Tickets can be reserved by calling 01341 281697 and will be available on the door also

At the meeting on April27th, Meirion was sung accompanied by Blodwen Comerford. Rose Morris was congratulated on winning the darts final, and Susan Wallace for making the final an all Barmouth one. Barmouth B team won the team finals and will play Caernarfon at Bala on 11th May in the Interfederation Match. The minutes of the March meeting were read and signed. Mari O'Rourke and Ann Williams were thanked for organising the Spring Ramble, which was at Tywyn. The Barmouth Health walks start on May5th. The county letter was read and relevant facts noted by the members. Our guest was Betty Annett who put us through our paces with a series of exercises designed to keep our joints and bodies as supple as possible despite any infirmities. She was warmly thanked by Val Vine. Raffle was won by Pam Payton and flowers by Mari O'Rourke. Next meeting will be on May 25th, our guest will be Angela Bee from Tywyn.

Race For Life Events --- ( pictures accompany:- Barmouth participants in Race for Life Week events)

. Organisers Jen Dinnage, Liz Jones and Clare Jones would like to say a big thank you , firstly to all the children and mums who did a sponsored walk on April 21^st from Ysgol y Traeth to the Bath House. They raised £318 in total. They would also like to thank Delyth Griffiths for entertaining the children dressed as an Easter Bunny and to the Bath house for supplying ice cream cones at the end of the walk. There was also a fundraising Day on Sunday 24^th April at the Dragon Theatre which in total raised £907-10, thanks go to family friends and everyone that donated cakes, scones, clothing etc and helped on the day, it would not have happened without your help. The donations from local businesses for the raffle were gratefully received.. The final event of the week saw Jen, Liz and Clare along with family and friends take part in the “Race for Life” event that was held in Caernarfon The three separate events helped raise a grand total of £1800 proving yet again the generosity of Barmouth people.

Credit Union

The Credit Union that operates in Barmouth on Thursdays from 11am till 1pm needs additional volunteers to help deal with the enquiries and operate the collection point. The purpose of a Credit union is to offer cheap loans and variable savings facilities. The one in Barmouth is becoming so popular that it needs additional helpers. If you want something to go on a C.V. or have past experience of administration and can be discreet this could be the opportunity you have been waiting for. Training is provided with this rapidly growing community organisation, for further information talk to Martin or Denise on 01341 280979 or call in to Communities First.

Youth Jazz

A very special treat this month as the Gwynedd & Anglesey Youth Jazz orchestra take to the stage at the Dragon in Barmouth for a night of fireworks and big band sound with some of the finest young jazz musicians in two counties. Tickets will cost £7.50 It is likely to be a popular choice so please book early, call Danny Jones on 01341 280 903.

There is a casual vacancy on Barmouth Town Council. If ten electors request an election this will be the way the vacancy is filled otherwise the remaining Councillors will co-opt someone. Requests for an election would have to be sent to the Returning Officer at Gwynedd Council in Caernarfon by mid day on May 31st.

Coffee Morning

Delyth Morris would like to thank those who supported and donated to the Coffee morning an May 8th which raised £413-50. The proceeds will be split between Maia Collingwood and Birmingham Children’s Hospital in which she was staying. Maia was then transferred to Great Ormond street hospital London. Special thanks go to Angie Chamberlaine who had a collecting box and to the girls who sold raffle tickets. There were twenty two raffle prize winners, too many to list. The generosity of all who helped is much appreciated.

Barmouth News

C.A.B.

There will be a drop in session with Citizens Advice Bureau on Monday 16^th May in the Communities First offices in Station Road between 10am and 1pm no appointment is necessary. In addition the info kiosk with touch screen is available Monday to Friday 9-30am till 4-30pm

Town Clean Up

Gwynedd Council along with other agencies are planning to do a Town Clean Up session on the 17^th, 18^th and 19^th May. There will be about twenty people from various groups such as community pay back , environmental services etc. who will tackle jobs around town. The organiser Peter Simpson has asked if community members and groups would also help. Anyone willing to take part should contact Martin or Denise in the Communities First office or call 01341 280979. They will take your contact details and let you know what is planned for each of the days. Similarly they need to know of any areas that you feel need attention. The teams will tackle problems on public or communal land and may be able to advise on courses of action for anything they do not cover

Have a go

As part of the Paddlesports Festival that is being organised by Mawddach Rotary and will raise money for Ty Gobaith Hope House , Barmouth Communities First Partnership have agreed to sponsor a limited number of tickets for the canoe taster sessions on the two days of the event. The sessions will be conducted between 10-30am and 3pm weather permitting. You are likely to get wet so a towel and a change of clothes will be needed. Safety equipment will be provided. If you would like a half hour to try out with an instructor for free please leave your details at the Communities First office by Wednesday 18^th May . Tickets will then be allocated for the event, which will be held on the 21^st and 22^nd May. You must be over 8 to take part and anyone under 15 will need to be escorted, as the harbour area will be busy at this time.

Carnival Fun Day

Saturday 18^th June is the date chosen for this new event. Built on the base of the Communities First Family Day this event will include a carnival procession along the promenade of hand made floats which may in future years grow bigger if this year is a success. This will finish on the school field where there will be a day of fun activities provided by the community groups of the town. If you or your group would like to get involved and perhaps raise funds for your cause please contact Denise or Martin at the Communities First office in Station Road who will pass your details to the organising team.

Electric Dragon

On Saturday 14^th May there will be a night of live music . It’s called Electric Dragon and it’s a Live Music Jam Night. Doors open at 8.30pm and it’s free entry until 9.30pm, £2 after. Players, non-players, all welcome. This is a chance to try out ideas with like minded musicians, make new friends and hear new sounds. The bar will be open so there will be a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere that proves so popular with the jazz nights.

Mr Nice Guy

Another first for the Dragon, there will be a late night screening of the iconic film “Mr Nice Guy “ on Friday 20^th May. This is a lead in to the live event in June when Howard Marks, about whom the film is written, will appear at the Dragon Barmouth and the proceeds of that evening will go to the development of Barmouth and Dyffryn Football Club facilities. Both the film and the “audience with” are real must see events for many reasons. He is an Oxford graduate and drug smuggler who has worked with MI5, CIA the mafia. His first live shows, discussed his life as a marijuana smuggler and his views on drug use and legalisation. The shows received excellent reviews throughout the national press, and his now legendary one-man comedy show, An Audience with Mr Nice, continues to sell-out at venues throughout Britain and Europe covering an ever-widening range of topics. He will be at the Dragon on Friday 17^th June. Tickets are on sale at the theatre or by calling them on 01341 280979 to reserve.

Open Day

King Arthur’s Labyrinth will offer people with local post codes, LL42 free entry to the centre at Corris on May 14^th. You will need to supply proof of your residency Contact them before travelling to ensure the event is still scheduled.

Information Bus

Are you an older person, that now means over 50?If so the Information Bus that will be parked on Barmouth Market on Thursday 12^th May between 10am and 3pm is for you. There will be ideas offered on how to keep yourself and your hope in good condition and set for long life. The service is arranged by Gwynedd older Peoples Forum. A range of service organisations will be on hand to answer questions and offer advice.

Credit Union

The Credit Union that operates in barmouth on Thursdays from 11am till 1pm offering cheap loans and variable savings facilities is becoming so popular that it needs additional volunteers to help deal with the enquiries and operate the collection point. If you want something to go on a C.V. or have past experience of administration and can be discreet this could be the opportunity you have been waiting for. Training is provided with this rapidly growing community organisation, for further information talk to Martin or Denise on 01341 280979 or call in to Communities First .

1st May 2011 Barmouth News

RSPCA Coffee

The Regard Partnership staff and residents have organised a Coffee Morning to be held at LLwyngwian Farm, Dyffryn Ardudwy on May 5th that will raise funds for the RSPCA .It is worth going to see the spectacular views. The entry fee is £1 to include coffee and cake or biscuit. There will also be a raffle, tombola and plant stall. For the more energetic there will be a penalty shoot out. For more information or to arrange a lift up the hill contact Karen on 01341 247389

Housing warden

If you have any issues to raise about the Gwynedd Community Homes ( former Gwynedd Council) housing properties in general or wish to talk about a community project that you feel GCH can help you achieve there will be an opportunity to talk to Gareth Jones who is the Community Housing Warden. He will be holding regular drop in sessions on the first Thursday of the month in the Communities First offices. The first will be Thursday 5th May from 2-4pm..No appointment necessary.

Paddle Sports event

The first Paddle Sports event is drawing near, 21st and 22nd May. This new event has been devised by Mawddach Rotary Club which has done a tremendous amount of preparation to ensure that a good variety of water based sports are represented. There will be opportunities for everyone to get involved and have a go, but if you are less active there will be plenty to watch. Posters and flyers town will give all the details of times, locations and contacts.

Barmouth News 13.03.2011

The Monthly Meeting of the Barmouth U3A was held on Wednesday 9th March at the Dragon Theatre, and was attended by 30 members & non-members. Having started with the usual cup of tea, socialising & spending time at the monthly stall, the meeting moved on to a lively illustrated presentation by Huw Jenkins. His topic was Plas y Dduallt, The House on the Black Hill, where Huw has lived for some years. Being situated in woodlands, beside the Ffestiniog Railway in the Vale of Ffestiniog, and having a long intriguing history of hauntings, eccentric owners and fascinating facts, it was a perfect subject for Huw’s enthusiastic attitude & approach to life. All those present thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon, and are now looking forward to the meeting on the 13th April, when Martin Barrow from Fairbourne will be entertaining members with a musical afternoon on the piano in the Theatre.

There will be a free “Sense of Place Workshop” at the Clochfaen, Llangurig 4th April 10 am – 1pm.Followed by the opportunity for a “sense of place in action” tour around this fascinating building. Tracey Churcher, The Mid Wales Sense of Place Advisor to Visit Wales, will facilitate a morning workshop, working with both the results of a recent questionnaire and also opinions in the room, to identify both the obvious and also the more subtle treasures of this beautiful region. The results of the morning will be fed back to the wider CMI and will form one of the building blocks for future Sense of Place work in the region - don't miss the chance to make your local knowledge count. To book a place please contact Barbara Grantham by phone on 01686 411166 or by email at barbara.grantham@llanidloes.com Lunch will be provided so please inform them if you have any special dietary requirements.

Alan Bennett is renowned for his sharp depiction of personalities, bringing out minute details that make characters more real. With the lady in the van he is retelling the real life story of a lady who parked her campervan in his drive for three months but ended up living there, in the van for 15 years. The tale of the personalities and the relationships is wittily conveyed in the play that will be performed in the Dragon Theatre on Friday 18th march at 7-30. Tickets, costing £8 / £6, can be reserved by calling 281697 and will also be available on the door.

There will be a combined model show and tabletop sale on Sunday March 27th from 11am till 5pm, to be held at Barmouth Bowling club and the Tennis courts in the memorial Park Park Road. There are many highly talented model makers in the area and this will be a good opportunity to see what they produce, share ideas, share knowledge and skills and perhaps get inspired to start building your own model. There will be a 50p admission charge. If you would like to reserve a table space please call Mike Jones on 07786930394

“Interdependence is good - The Great Outdoors - Get out there & do it” is the title given to Free taster sessions that are on offer to accommodation providers so they can tell their guests what its really like. The Welsh Assembly Government, Tourism Partnership Mid Wales and the Outdoor Activity Network are working together to develop the outdoor activity sector in Mid Wales. From 14th to 29th March there will be a variety of activities for tourism operators to try out: sailing, boat trips, paragliding, ski-ing, Canadian canoeing or “sit on” kayaking, cycling and mountain biking, laser combat, archery and survival skills. To book a place contact Gwawr Price at Medrwn by calling 01654 705944 or email her atgwawr.price@tpmw.co.uk

The President welcomed members to the Annual Welsh Meeting. Meirion was sung in Welsh accompanied by Blodwen Comerford. The President congratulated 4 members on their forthcoming birthdays. The minutes of the January meeting were read and signed. Darts practices started on Tues. 1st March in the bowling club at 7pm. Bingo was in Llanelltyd village hall on Weds. 2nd march at 7pm. Scrabble at Dolgellau on Mon 7th March at 2pm in the Ship hotel. Correspondence:- The monthly County Letter and other communications were read out by the secretary. Harlech W.I. have been asked by Arriva trains to design and show a garden at the RHS Flower Show at Tatton Park. The guest speakers were Sarah Tibbetts & Ifan Pugh. Sarah sang a selection of songs in her native Welsh, accompanied on the piano by Ifan. Although some members did not fully understand all that she sang about, the evening was very enjoyable. The members sang along on one song, singing in both English and Welsh. Sarah and Ifan were thanked, warmly, by Rose Morris. The tea hostesses were thanked by the President. Raffle was won by Doreen Gill and the daffodils by Vicki Pell. Next meeting 23rd march. Guest speaker will be Heather Lewis talking on Wildlife of Meirionydd.

Theatre fundraiser

The special event, which was devised by Manager Alison Williams, was held to mark St. David’s Day at the Dragon Theatre. It included a session of Hugh’s Views using images from the community web archive, shown on the big screen in the theatre. Hugh Roberts as always brought the images to life with his commentary and by prompting members of the audience to remember past incidents and events. Chris Knowles the well-respected local harpist played a selection of Welsh tunes for the audience at lunchtime and a compilation film of past carnivals created by Vic Biddle was screened in the Arts room. The audience were offered a choice of soups, all made by volunteers who donated their time, ingredients and effort for the good of the theatre. A raffle was also held to add to the total raised. The combined efforts of all resulted in a total of £728-80 being raised on the day. As the theatre is a registered charity they were entitled to take advantage of a generous scheme operated by Barclays Bank in which the bank match pound for pound the sum raised which means that the theatre will have a total of £1457-50 to put into their funds. The theatre management committee expressed their gratitude for the work by all that produced this excellent result

Employment prospects

Coleg Harlech is planning to offer two lots of 10 young people the chance to get involved in setting up the theatre again for which they would be paid minimum wage for three days per week, for 6 months, while working at Harlech theatre. They'd work from 9am-3.30pm and learn about everything to do with performing arts, they would leave with BTECS and have work references and experience to help them into permanent jobs. Among the skills to be included are: Music technology ; recording, performing, DJ skills and radio broadcasting, multimedia, game design, animation, web design, theatre lighting, Performing Arts: Dance, drama, set design, hair make up, fashion photography. There would also be sessions on marketing, office duties, customer service etc. This would be effectively paid training in a vast array of interesting subjects. If you would like to register your interest in this please contact Communities First who will pass on your details. A start date has not yet been set for this scheme and there are likely to be restrictions on who can apply but if you are not in education, employment or training it is worth considering.

Radio Barmouth

A group of people met with Keith Murell of Radio Cardiff to talk about the issues involved in the set up of a community radio station for Barmouth. Using Keith’s experience the group were able to map out how to proceed. An initial step will be to find out what licences are needed and another to identify the equipment needs. A note of caution has been flagged up by a local resident who advised that getting a signal to all parts of the town will be costly and difficult to achieve. Enthusiasm among the group will ensure that all avenues and solutions are examined. If you would like to know more or offer help please contact Martin at the Communities First office.

Y Not Drop In

As Communities First and its satellite groups prepare to move to new premises a number of groups presently using the Station Road facility are relocating. The Y Not Drop In has been offered space behind the Bookshop in Park Road. Members spent Thursday moving things from the Station Road site where they have operated successfully for about four years. The group hope to be able to offer extra opening times in addition to the current session which runs from 10am till 2pm on Thursdays. Y Not has an open door policy welcoming anyone who would like to meet and chat with other people. From time to time art, music and craft programmes are offered but anyone can opt in or out of these depending on their personal interests. You are welcome to call in and see the new facility.

The Monthly Meeting of the Barmouth U3A will be held at 2.00pm on Wednesday 9th March in Parlwr Mawr at the Dragon Theatre. The meeting will start with the usual sales stall, together with a cup of tea & time to socialise. And as usual, new members, and those interested in seeing what the U3A gets up to are very welcome. Afterwards Plas y Dduallt…did it take its name from the dark rocks above, or was it due to things more sinister? Did the Most Haunted team find anything? This medieval house has many tales to tell. It was home to the Llwyds, descendants of Llewelyn Fawr, for hundreds of years. Did Cromwell really sleep here? What did the evacuees get up to in the war? Why does it have a private platform onto the Ffestiniog Railway? Who was Colonel Campbell? Huw Jenkins, the current owner & caretaker will share his thoughts and views in what promises to be a fascinating illustrated talk.

If you would like to see a yoga group for youngsters from the age of eight upwards being formed you are asked to register your interest at the Leisure Centre on .01341 280111 or call Julie on 07510359212.There is also the possibility of creating a group for parents too which could take place during a week day, again if interested please contact either of the phone numbers. There is already a new yoga group for everyone either experienced or beginner that has recently started on Thursday evenings from 6pm to 7pm also at the leisure centre. To join please contact Julie or go along to the leisure centre.

Are you interested in swimming classes for your baby? The baby swim school is hoping to start soon at Harlech pool and hold sessions from 11am till noon on Wednesdays . The sessions will be bi-lingual and are aimed at those in he 3months to 3 years age band.. The age groups will be divided with a ½ hour session for each group. For more information please phone Denise on 01341 280979 or call at the Communities First office in Station Road.

Last Thursday Jean Napier ARPS gave an excellent talk and photographic display of her work. Starting with “A tale of two rivers”, the Mawddach and Dyfi and the on to “Two Snowdon rivers” Glaslyn and Dwyryd. Alun John Richards compiled the text in each book, Jean did the photography. She explained clearly how human activity had changed the landscape including reference to the shipbuilding of the 16th century and the slate movements of the 19th century from Gwynfynydd to Bermo and the land to Cader Idris Creuglyn to Aberdyfi. The Snowdon rivers Glaslyn and Dwyryd to Porthmadog and the Cob. Ffestinniog railway from slates to tourists. Jean showed the stunning beauty of North West Wales, its mountains and rivers; something that everyone should enjoy, it is part of the heritage. The next meeting will be held in the Arts room where the speaker will be Professor G.H.Jenkins F.B.A. whose subject will be Iolo Morganwg.

Pastor Dawn Robinson would like tpo thank the owners of Sarn Faen caravan park for giving her the use of their pool on Sunday 13th February for Baptisms, it was a very good event which went with a splash!

The Womens world Day of Prayer is organised by a different group of women each year on a theme and in a format that is passed around the globe. This year the task has fallen to the women of Chile. There will be over 5000 services in 170 countries. In Barmouth the service will be held in Elim Pentecostal Church in Park Road at 11am on Friday 4th March. It will be led by Pastor Dawn Robinson and the speaker will be Monsignor Alex Robello.

It has been suggested that there could be a Royal Wedding Street Party near the junctions of Heol Y Llan, Heol Llwewelyn and Heol y Sarn.If you think it is a good idea and want to take part, wherever in town you live, please call Sam on 280481 or Rita Johnson Hunter. It’s a good chance to get together for a great party.

A local resident called in to Communities first to say that he was having great difficulty using Waynes Crossing since the “Repair “ works were done recently that resulted in his wheelchair being tipped at a dangerous angle on the approach to the crossing. Contact was made with the rail authorities who agreed that there was a problem and have promised to get the work re-done in the next few weeks.

Bermo Arts will be holding Open Auditions for their Summer Show on Wednesday 9th March at 7pm in Parlwr Mawr. They also welcome those who would like to take on the behind the scenes roles to go along and introduce themselves.

On Thursday 3rd February a meeting was held to discuss present and future projects. A fenced off area for the children of Ysgol-y- Traeth has been created. A raised bed in a butterfly shape, benches, a wild flower area and a willow arch constructed with the children, make it look very interesting. Bushes, plants and wildflowers are to be planted to attract birds and insects. This should then provide a pleasant garden and outdoor classroom for the children where they can learn to protect their environment. Last autumn the brownies planted daffodils and bluebells and these are now appearing. Please do not pick! Boards have been placed along paths informing people of the importance of the brambles -for voles and small birds -and blackberries for all. Reed beds for warblers insects. Wildflowers for birds and bees butterflies. for amphibians and dragon flies, the group even has a visiting Heron and there are a great variety of birds nesting in the trees. Wern Mynach was once a saltmarsh where the monks from Cymer Abbey grazed their sheep in winter. An informal general meeting is to be held in the Parlwr Bach at 6.30 on Thursday 10th March with tea and biscuits. If you are interested in conservation, wildlife gardening or use the Wern for walking and want to see what’s going on and have your say please go along to the meeting.

“Only Dads allowed” ( Photo Young parents at Barmouth’s Dads n Babies sessions)

The Dads and baby group held at the Communities First office in Barmouth meet on the first Friday of every month 09:30 – 11:30. Dads meet up for their own session which gives mum a bit of a break and allows them the opportunity to promote their baby’s development through play and socialisation. Ann the health visitor is on hand to answer their questions and make the tea!

There will be an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Y Not Drop In on Thursday 24^th Feb at 1pm in the meeting room behind the Revelation Bookshop in ParkRoad. The main topic for discussion will be whether to move to this venue from the Communities First building since that venue will not be available after March. There will also be financial and committee reports and any other business that is brought up. All are welcome to attend and participate.

Radio Meeting

Wednesday 2^nd March 6-30pm in Communities first office is the time set when local people can talk with Keith Murrel of Radio Cardiff about setting up some kind of station for Barmouth. It is likely that this would be an internet facility. If you want to make programmes or be involved in the operation of a local facility you are welcome to go along and explore the idea.

Hughs Views

The Hugh’s views “St David’s Day” special event will begin in the main theatre at 11-30 but there will be coffee and tea available in the Arts Room from 10-30. At 12-3o there will be a break for a soup lunch during which a video of past carnivals will be shown then there will be another shorter session from the Community Gallery. Tickets may be available on the door, if not previously sold, out for £3. Tuesday 1^st March

All that Jazz

Paul Cowley and a trio from the midlands will be entertaining crowds in the Arts Room on Friday night 25^th February. If you want to be sure of a ticket 7you need to call Danny Jones on 01341 280903

Pronounced ‘Ko-lees-ees’ Song, this promises to be a visually stunning show and possibly the most unusual production seen on the stage of the Dragon. It is brought to Barmouth by Dodgy Clutch Theatre Company which is internationallyXrenowned (www.dodgyclutch.com) This will be a midweek show on Wednesday 2^nd March at 7-30pm. Tickets will cost £6.

Fair Trade

A Free tea and coffee event will be held at the premises of Messrs Walter Lloyd Jones, High Street Barmouth on Thursday 3^rd March from 10am until 3pm.Fairtrade and Tradecraft products will be available to purchase. Local volunteers will be on hand to offer information about the growing range of products that can be classified as being suitable for these two brand marks. There will also be a raffle. You are invited to sample the tea and coffee for free

Light entertainment

If you have seen the Talk Talk trailers during X-factor you’ll recognise light drawing. If not, you might want to do a search online. Now Light drawing comes to Barmouth, as part of the Constellation project, on Thursday 24^th February, Half Term week, 10am -12pm or 1pm-3pm at a cost of £2.00 each. In order to plan, the organisers would like to know how many will be going so it is advisable to book as there are limited spaces in each session. The sessions will be run by Ben and Jude who have done work for Harlech Theatr projects in the past. To book call the theatre on 281697

Hughs Views

The community gallery has been growing for the past four years and has over 318000 hits on the Internet site that is funded by Communities First. Some time ago Hugh Roberts, who has developed the gallery, managed the pictures and become effectively the community archivist for images, suggested that it would be good to do a fund raising event for the Dragon Theatre. Interest in the pictures and the memories that they stir continues to grow with new images being added regularly. He suggested that St. David’s Day would be an ideal date. Allison Williams Manageress at the theatre has developed the idea. Hugh’s Views will start at 11.30, with a soup lunch served mid way through. Coffee will be available in the Arts Room from 10.30, with videos on screen including Vic Biddle’s carnival footage set to music & Charlie Brooks performing in ‘Our Day Out’ (80s). So that they can plan to cater this particular “ Hugh’s Views” will be a ‘ticket only’ event at £3 per person inclusive. Please phone to reserve tickets and pay on the day, or call in to the theatre and buy in advance. All proceeds go to support the Dragon theatre.

Youth Centre Open Day

On Wednesday 23^rd February, during Half term there will be an open day at the Youth Centre that is located at the Pavilion Leisure Centre on the sea front. An open invitation is offered to everyone to go along and see the superb facility that is being developed there. A samba workshop, dance studio with the latest dance mat technology, craft workshop and many other facilities will be open for you to see between 12 noon and 4pm. All are welcome and entrance is free. A substantial expansion of services at the site is being planned by Gwynedd Youth Services and in addition a funding bid with Communities First would see an outreach worker being employed and additional services being added for individuals and young families up to the age of 25.

Singer and Blues Guitarist Paul Cowley returns to the Dragon Arts Room for another 4th Friday with a trio of musicians from the Midlands to show “ How Blues bands used to be” Entry will cost£7-50. These events have become so popular that a sell out is a frequent happening so, to be sure book early - call Danny Jones on 01341 280 903 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 01341 280 903 end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

Age Concern

Do you spend too much time on your own? Why not try Age Concern Day Centre, which is held in the communal Iounge at Hafan Deg, Park Road, Barmouth every Tuesday from 10.am until 2.30. It will be an opportunity for a chat, a laugh and a game of bingo, with good company. The cost is £6.00 and includes tea or coffee with biscuits morning and afternoon and a tasty cooked lunch. Transport will be provided. All areas are flat, so if you are a little unsteady on your legs you will be able to manage. Everyone will make you really welcome; Maxine and Pat will ensure you are comfortable. Please telephone Pat on (01341) 281641 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (01341) 281641 end_of_the_skype_highlighting for more information.

Internet Radio

Last summer a number of people showed interest in developing an on line radio project for Barmouth at an event organised by the National Theatre of Wales. The theatre company are keen to reach out into the communities of Wales and offer help and support for arts projects. Already they have run an actors workshop for Bermo Arts. They now offer the services of a musician and broadcaster from Cardiff who has set up a station there. He has offered to come up and meet a group of local people and discuss ideas with them and show them how he turned thoughts into action in Cardiff. If you would like to take part either as a broadcaster, writer, musician, technical team etc. please contact Martin at Communities First in Station road or call on 01341 281979 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 01341 281979 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. The meeting is likely to be around 2^nd March, just awaiting confirmation

The printed Dragon Diary is available at many distribution points around the town and is renewed on a monthly basis. Alternatively, the website www.dragontheatre.co.uk includes a what’s on page, with a downloadable version of the diary to view or print. The website also allows the viewing of seating plans, provides information about room hire, the history of the building and more. The Dragon Theatre also has a facebook page, which can be viewed even if you are not a registered Facebook user. This is proving to be a valuable marketing tool for the events that take place, as links can be posted to film trailers and samples of music, for example. Facebook users can ‘like’ the page to receive automatic updates about what is happening at the theatre and community centre - they can also interact by posting reviews and comments about the events.

New Netball

Jo and Craig at The Pavilion have received a lot of interest in starting up Netball classes at the centre. They have decided to start running adult sessions on Friday evenings from 6pm till 7pm. If you fancy giving something new a try or if you are a seasoned player you can join the first session on Friday 11^th February. For more details call the Pavilion on 280111.

The new President, Mair Jones, welcomed members to the first meeting of the New Year. Meirion was sung to the accompaniment of Blodwen Comerford. The President stated that 5 members were unable to attend the meeting sue to various ailments, including Mary Smallwood who had received hospital treatment whilst on holiday abroad. Three members had recently celebrated significant birthdays. The President also spoke of the death of Pam Walker, a former W.I. member. Members were informed that Victoria Smallwood has been promoted to Major and Cliff Jones, Mair’s son, has been promoted to Detective inspector in London. The minutes of the last meeting were read and signed. The President mentioned that there is a sewing club in Dyffryn and she was willing to collect monies from interested members at each monthly meeting. The County Letter and other correspondence were read out. There is a bingo night at Llanelltyd on Wednesday March2nd at 7pm and also Bingo at Llandrillo on Friday 15^th April at 7-30pm. Scrabble will be on 7^th March at 2pm at the Ship Hotel Dolgellau. Te Cymreig at the Victoria hotel, Llanbedr will be on 25^th February at 2-30pm. The guest speaker at the meeting was Peter Gur talking about his “Glastonbury experiences”. The still pictures and video clips gave a small insight into life at the biggest festival in the world. Peter talked about the pros and cons of taking his family to Glastonbury over the years, the last visit being two years ago when his son was 13 years old. He was thanked, warmly by Doreen Gill. The raffle was won by Janet Davies and the flowers by Joan Holloway. The next meeting will be on 23^rd February at which the guests will be Sarah Tibbits and Ifan Pugh.

Made in Dagenham

An iconic film, set in a car factory, this is the dramatisation of the 1968 strike at the Ford Dagenham car plant, where female workers walked out in protest against sexual discrimination. It stars Sally Hawkins, Andrea Riseborough and Bob Hoskins. Well worth seeing, this is being shown at the Dragon Theatre on Friday, 11^th February, it starts at 8pm but will finish in time for those needing to catch the train back across the water.

Lit and Deb

Mr Chris Crook BSc MBS FRGS, from Beddgelert, was the speaker at the meeting held on February 3^rd in Parlwr Mawr. His formative years had been spent at Althorp, the ancestral home of the Spencer family where his father was the longest serving Butler Valet to the 7^th Earl. He gave an interesting insight into life among the nobility. Chris also talked about his many and varied hobbies with members such as mountaineering, canoeing, sailing, cooking, photography and travel. He had a large selection of slides to illustrate his many activities. The speaker was introduced by Rachel Cleaver, Chairman for the evening and thanked by Peter Leyden the groups Treasurer. The next meeting on Thursday 10^th February will be addressed by Mrs Sue Alger, whose talk will be entitled, “Life in the muck”. Visitors are always welcomed.

Bermo Arts would like to apologise for the cancellation of James and the Giant Peach which was due to be performed on the 28^th, 29^th and 30^th December. This was due to many factors including the inclement weather and cast illness. They have booked new dates for Easter performances as follows 20th April 7pm, 23^rd April 2pm, 27^th 7pm and 30^th 2pm. Reminder and booking details will be given nearer the time.

Internet know-how

With so many services closing their offices and transferring to the internet many find it hard to access the services and information they once took for granted. If the thought of searching the web for bus times, train fares, telephone numbers, goods or services confuses you Communities First can help. Spend two days learning the essentials about how to use the web safely and effectively. Find out how to compare prices, search for deals. Discover just how easy the internet is to use and how it can help you save a lot of money. Compare gas and electricity prices and much more. The sessions are free to anyone living or working in Barmouth. Contact the Communities First office in Station Road or call 01341 280979 for dates and details. Whatever your level of knowledge this is worth doing. You do not need to own a computer, what you learn can be done on the computers at Barmouth library.

The next visit by the Citizens Advice Bureau counsellor will be Monday 14^th February between 10am and 1pm at the community room in the Communities First centre in Station Road. No appointment is needed, just drop in and explain what help you need. The service is free. The information point is also available daily from 9-30am till 4-30pm; it has a massive amount of information on 100’s of topics that you can access freely.

Do you spend too much time on your own? Why not try Age Concern Day Centre which is held in the communal lounge at Hafan Deg, Park Road, Barmouth every Tuesday from 10 until 2.30. It will be an opportunity for a chat, a laugh, a game of Bingo with good company.

The cost is £6.00 and includes tea or coffee with biscuits morning and afternoon with a tasty cooked lunch. Transport will be provided. All areas are flat so if you are a little unsteady on your feet you will be Able to manage. Evberyone will make you really welcome and Maxine and myself will ensure you are comfortable. Please telephone Pat on 01341 281641 for more information.

The Monthly Meeting of the Barmouth U3A will be held at 2.00pm on Wednesday 9^th February, in Parlwr Mawr at the Dragon Theatre. The meeting will start with the usual sales stall, together with a cup of tea & time to socialise. And as usual, new members, and those interested in seeing what the U3A gets up to are very welcome. The monthly presentations will maintain their standard of quality and variation, in that Valerie Land, a local artist of some renown will look at her many ways of looking at a single image. The theme of the talk will be ‘Interpretations’, and she will discuss what inspires her, and the materials and techniques that she uses, sprinkled with some amusing yarns along the way.

Help needed

The growing popularity of the North Wales Credit union, formerly known as Y Llechen, has created vacancies for more volunteers to help deal with the rising number of enquiries for the low cost loans that are offered by this members run organisation. At present the group open from 11am till 1pm in Barmouth on Thursdays at Communities First office. Training is offered and the time commitment is just a couple of hours a month. For those looking to improve their employment prospects volunteering is a good thing to have on a C.V. If you would like to know more call into the office in Beach Road where Martin or Denise will be happy to answer questions.

There are two schemes on offer to local businesses at the moment. One is a shop front improvement scheme that offers funding to improve the appearance of properties and to add bi-lingual signage where needed. The second scheme is a business health check. An independent advisor will be paid to carry out an assessment of any aspects that are giving you concern and offer options to move your enterprise forward. Separate from these schemes are the services of MANEG, which is the organisation that helps new businesses to set up, they offer guidance and support and a high degree of expertise. Application forms and contact details for all can be obtained from the Communities First office in Station Road.

All those books, C.D’s and DVD’s that you borrowed from the library and forgot to return can now be taken back under an amnesty which will run from 14^th February till 26^th March, a chance to clear your cupboards and conscience in one go.

Last week the speaker was local man John Muston, who has had an interesting career in the army leading no fewer than 28 expeditions; to0 places as far away as Turkey, Nepal, Everest, the Canadian Arctic, Peru and Greenland. John’s skills include mountaineer8ng, and he describes himself as a moderate skier. He said that his favourite country is Greenland. The speaker, who was introduced by the Vice President, Michel Benson, took his audience on a tour of his favourite country, leading the expedition. Members were treated to slides showing wonderful scenery including ice capped mountains and glaciers. Many of the peaks have been given British names, such as Mount Harlech. Living in tents surrounded by wild scenery mostly bathed in brilliant sunshine in the company of many birds and animals such as the arctic fox created a vivid mental picture. The area is often known as the Arctic Riviera though devoid of tourists. It was indeed an enjoyable excursion to a land unknown by the audience. A vote of thanks was given by Mrs Betty O’Dell, who said that she had flown over Greenland. The next meeting will be on 3^rd February when the subject will be “Faith in the scientist” by Mr Chris Cook.

If you would like to talk face to face with a C.A.B advisor you can drop in to the Communities First offices in Beach Road on Thursday 31st January from 10am till 1 pm without making an appointment. C.A.B. have obtained funding to be able to offer this fortnightly, Monday, service in Barmouth. Appointments can be made to see an advisor in Dolgellau by calling the C.A.B. help line . There is also a touch screen computer link in the Communities First building in Barmouth with free, confidential access every weekday 9-30 to 4-30.

Thanks are sent to everyone who supported or donated items for the Coffee Morning that was held at Hafan Deg on Tuesday 18th January. Your generosity enabled the group to achieve a grand total of £170-50.

After six years loyal service as Handyman at the Dragon theatre, Vic Court has decided to retire. During that time he has been a vital member of the team that run the building with his ability to tackle a wide range of practical tasks. He will of course be a hard act to follow but if you possess the necessary skills and would like a few hours work on a regular basis please contact the Manager on 01341 281697.

16-01-11 Barmouth News

Xmas fayre

Hafod Mawddach would like to thank everyone who went along to support the xmas fayre, also a big thank you to those who helped and made donations towards it, it was a massive success raising £750 which will go to the residents amenity fund. The staff would also like to take this opportunity to thank those who support the home all year round especially the friends of Hafod Mawddach who work hard and give a lot of time supporting the care team. They and residents at Hafod Mawddach. wish you all a happy new year

JAZZ & BLUES AT THE DRAGON

On JANUARY 28th , “The Fourth Friday” events at the Dragon will start 2011 with a shared bill between Quercus Burlesque, & Paul Cowley together with Rob Venables. Quercus Burlesque are a quirky four piece band, showcasing vocals with instrumental accompaniment... humour & musicality featuring strongly in their songs.The second half of the night will be a return by a pair of firm favourites – Paul Cowley on blues guitar & vocals, together with Rob Venables on harmonica. Tickets will cost £7.50, & since the last show was a sell out, it is recommended that you contact Danny Jones, 01341 280903 to reserve your seat as soon as possible.

Literary and Debating Society
Members of the Society were delighted to be joined at their meeting on January 13th by Colin Havercroft, who spoke movingly of his joy to be back after suffering severe strokes in October 2009. The evening was Chaired by Mrs Val vine and was based on “Desert island Discs”. The “Castaway” was David Clayton, a former President and Honorary Secretary of Lit and Deb, whose working career had been spent in the Royal Navy. The audience was intrigued by the description of his early service in ships and shore establishments abroad, especially in H.M.S. Birmingham, engaged in the Korean war. David spoke of his enduring fascination with Japan, the beauty of its countryside and his interest in its spoken language. Rather nearer home he mentioned his families connection with Merioneth which had begun in the 1920’s, before he was born.. He had met his wife Gwenda in Bontddu in 1947 and they had married in Dolgellau in 1955 eventually making their home in Barmouth in 1980. The talk was interspersed with music including songs by Mendelsohn, Schubert , Grieg and more rumbustuous pieces by Strauss and Acker Bilk. The President, Barry Rampton, thanked David, warmly, for his talk, which had interested everyone present very much indeed. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday 19th January in the Arts room, the occasion being the Inter- Societies Annual Quiz

Save The Children
Thew local branch of the charity would like to thank all those who braved the weather over Christmas to attend Carols at Davey Jones’ Locker. A total of £172-20 was raised and a very merry evening was had. The Christmas Hamper was also drawn and a further £150 was added to the pot. Thanks also go to everyone who continues to support the work of the local fund raisers in a million little ways.

Burns Night
Local musician and organiser Barry Lim has drawn together a number of talented local people to create a night of Traditional Scottish music to mark Burns Night. To make the occasion complete there will be haggis, ceremonially piped in at the Last Inn on Tuesday evening 25th January.

Singing for fun

The U3A Singing for Fun group did exactly that over the Christmas period when they visited Hafod Mawddach to sing for the residents. A medley of old songs and carols were performed and the faces of residents lit up when they recalled, word for word, some of the songs and joined in with gusto. Martin Barrow accompanied them on the piano and it was heartening to witness their sheer enjoyment. Have you ever thought how good singing is for you? If you can hold a note – why not join? The group meets once a month (at 2 p.m. on the third Wednesday) in the Dragon theatre to sing their hearts out. From church choirs to karaoke, singing is known to lift people’s spirits – and it could be good for your health too! The research available on singing identifies some key physical benefits. It exercises major muscle groups in the upper body, promotes health, breathing, circulation and digestion and leads to increased alertness. It’s also been said that improved airflow in the upper respiratory tract is likely to lessen the opportunity for bacteria to flourish there, countering the symptoms of colds and flu. In fact, there is nothing like singing for generating that feel-good factor and as Ella Fitzgerald once said – ‘The only thing better than singing is more singing!’ If you’d like to know more, contact Evelyn Richardson on 01341 250 438 or simply go along just for fun!

The last meeting, the Christmas Party, was held at The Min y Mor Hotel where members enjoyed an excellent meal. The retiring President, Mari O Rourke, handed over the Badge of Office to President for 2011 Mair Jones. Both Rose Morris and Christine Leese have been re-elected as Treasurer and Secretary respectively. Members were pleased to hear that the church at Penrhyndeudraeth was filled with W.I. voices at the County Carol Service. After singing14 carols members were given a much appreciated cup of tea and mince pie .Unfortunately the Group ArtroCarol Service had to be cancelled due to weather conditions in the area. The Entertainment which followed was hilarious!! Beginning with some disorientated carol singers who were hardly in unison. This was followed by a more sedate monolouge. There was then the crowning item presented by the inimitable entertainment committee which was a send-up of "Strictly" with Val and Mari scoring most points, A truly flourishing finish to a memorable evening. Next meeting on 26th January speaker will be Peter Gurr (Kiwi )who will show slides and talk about his "Glastonbury Experience" New members and friends always welcomed. There will be a committee meeting on 21 Jan at 7pm

Lit and Deb Society

The first meeting of the New Year was the Vice Presidents Evening at which the VicePresident Michel Benson talked about one of the main events of 2010. This being the National Theatre of Wales commissioned production, ”For mountain sea and sand” created by Artistic Director Marc Rees. The work involved performances at various locations around the town during two weeks last summer. Having played a small p[art in the production Mr Benson described the performances in the absence of Marc Rees who had been unable to reach Barmouth. Two of Barmouth’s young actors, Elis Matthews and Jack Rendell spoke about the parts they played too. In the general discussion that followed all agreed that “For mountain sea and sand had been a great credit to Barmouth. A vote of thanks was given by Shelia Cole. The next event on the programme will be Desert Island Discs presented by Mrs Val Vine M.B.E. on Thursday 13^th January.

Buffs Kids Party

The organisers of the Buffs Christmas party for children would like to thank all the people who helped and all the kids and parents who took part to make it as great party that packed the club. Special thanks go to Andy Nimmo, Stan Stebbings, Ray Mercer and Malcolm Tookey for getting it up and running, thanks also go to Mandy and staff and the girls who made the buffet. The club are grateful to the Co-op and to MP Wholesale, the Mermaid Chippy, Jones Butchers, Shirley North , the milk bar and for the donations from Cader Idris Lodge, lodge members and anyone who has not been mentioned. The Club are looking forward to next year when they will welcome kids to the best party in Barmouth.

Jean Lloyd Jones

Jeans many friends and relatives in Barmouth will be saddened to hear of her sudden passing on December 23^rd in the Royal Glamorgan Hospital Pontypridd. She had retained close ties with Barmouth despite having moved away many years ago, she remained a regular visitor and stayed well informed of the towns activities.Her funeral was held on January 12^th in Salem Chapel Tonteg and followed by committal at Glyn Taff cemetery. There was a request that money in lieu of flowers be given to the RNLI care of Castle Court Funeral Home, Castle Street Pontypridd CF371TA.

Christmas Coffee Morning

One of the victims of the snow was the Coffee Morning planned by Age Concern Barmouth, the group have decided to hold the event on January 18^th from 10-30 till noon in the Communal Lounge of Hafan Deg. All proceeds go to the local group , everyone is welcome to go along and join in the post Christmas fun.

Gymnastics

How about trying something new for the New Year, the Pavilion Leisure Centre are offering gymnastics sessions for 4 to 7 yrs olds and separate sessions for 8 to 11 yrs olds. They will be held at the Pavilion on Sundays. To sessions planned for the younger group are from 1pm till 1-45 and also 1-45 till 2-30. The session for the older kids is from 2-30 till 3-30. There are limited spaces available and you need to book by calling in at the centre or calling them on 01341 280111

Pen Pals

There are all sorts of collectors clubs, a local young man would like to create a pen collectors group. His particular interest is pens with company names or logos. If you would be interested in setting up a group for sharing and exchanging you can leave a message for Craig Dobbins at the Communities First office in Station Road If you have computer skills and would be able to help set up a web site that would be a bonus.

Barmouth News 12-12-10

Time Bank Morning

The Time Bank will be holding a Sherry & Mince Pie morning at the Parlwr Mawr of the Dragon Theatre on Thursday 23rd December . 9.30 - 1400 hrs. There will also be a jewellery stall, raffle, teas, coffee etc. This will be another chance to find out what a time bank is and what it can do for you. Anyone of any age can get involved and trade their interests and abilities. If you still have no idea what this is all about go along for a simple explanation.

Aladdin

Ardudwy community theatre’s youth drama group have put together an energetic Christmas story with loads of colour, music and dance so it is sure to be fun for all ages. There will be two shows one on Friday 17^th at 7pm in the Dragon Theatre and another at 2pm on Saturday 18^th at 2pm. Tickets will cost £5 and £4 for concessions.

James and the giant peach

Bermo Arts production for the gap between Christmas and New Year is a real family show with plenty of action and colour to keep everyone interested. Show will be in the Dragon Theatre on Tuesday 28^th to Thursday 30^th with evening shows at 7pm on the 28^th and 30^th while the 29^th will be a matinee at 2pm . Tickets can be booked in advance by calling the box office on 281697, they will cost £6 and £3 children’s.

Communities First

At the meeting on Tuesday last the Partnership voted to not to continue with the acquisition of the old youth centre on Talbot square, it was felt that there were insurmountable difficulties that could not be resolved with the current owners, Gwynedd Council. The future of the building is now in question. Communities First have also been advised by Gwynedd Council who currently host the staff of the Partnership that they will need to secure alternative accommodation by March 31^st 2011 as the building they presently occupy in Station road is to be disposed of by Gwynedd Council. Various options are being considered. Communities First are currently working on a project to greatly increase the use of the Pavilion leisure centre and will work in Partnership with Gwynedd Youth Services to locate a wider range of services for young people and families in the newly formed youth centre section that houses the Youth Club. Other projects will see health and sport connections being strengthened for cooperative working between the Health Board and the Leisure Services in the rest of the building. At a time of considerable challenges the Partnership are forging some strong working partnerships that will further support the town and its services.

Service times

On 19^th December there will e Carols by candlelight at 6pm in St John’s Church which will be followed by mince pies and mulled wine. On Christmas eve the service at St Mary’s Llanaber will take place at 7pm. Midnight Mass at St John’s will commence at 11-30pm then on Christmas Day the 11am service will be held in St David’s. On Sunday 26^th December there will be a service in St Mary’s Llanaber at 9-30am.

On Friday 3^rd December the dancers held their annual Christmas Lunch once again at the Tal y Don hotel. The food as usual was excellent and everyone was well satisfied. After the meal Alan gave a glowing vote of thanks to the dedicated M.C’s, Margaret and Dennis who were then presented with a gift towards which everyone had contributed. The dancers then made their way to the RAOB club for the usual Friday Tea Dance where seas0nal music contributed to the happy atmosphere. Sequence and ballroom dancing takes place every Friday at 2pm at either RAOB club Barmouth or Dyffryn village hall. The cost is £2, which includes tea and biscuits. Dancers and potential dancers are welcomed, for further information contact Margaret or Dennis on 01341 430236.

Trust Fund closing

The Communities First Trust Fund has put £200000 per year into the funds of local groups and organisations. There is no guarantee that this particular fund will continue after this year as Government funding is constantly being tightened. If you are a local group that works in and for the benefit of the people of Barmouth you can apply for funds for specific items that would further enable your group to help the community. Time is running out, applications need to be in by early in January so please talk to Denise or Martin as soon as possible if you think you may wish to apply.

Surveys

The Housing Survey that is being carried out to determine the future housing needs of the community relies on local residents returning their survey forms in order that a true and representative picture can be formed. 1300 surveys were sent to households, a steady flow of them is returning to the Communities First office but many more are needed. Some may think that the survey will not benefit them, however, the aim is to plan for the future and no one knows quite what that may have in store so it is important that all who are able, contribute to this project. Spare forms are available from the Communities First office if they have been lost and it is to there that they can be returned.

In order to be able to create realistic results that reflect the needs of Barmouth as a whole Communities First need to get as many as possible of the 1300 housing surveys that were sent out returned for inclusion in the evaluation. Everyone is asked to read through the form and complete sections that are relevant to their situation. The aim of the study is to find peoples present and future needs so that planners, builders and landlords can be persuaded to provide the type of accommodation that residents want.

Late night shopping

Last Thursday’s event was a colurful and enjoyable evening when people of the town came out to enjoy the spectacle of the towns lights and decorations. The children were enthralled by the Christmas tree in Talbot square . Music at locations around town provided points of interest as did the Santa’s Grotto and various stalls . The event was coordinated by Cllr Lark Davies , she would like to thank everyone who helped, too many to list individually in this column. She also stressed that thanks go to those who went out on a cold night to support the event and the traders of the town.

Care to share

An idea has been suggested whereby people who have caring responsibility could come together and provide active support to one another. The thought being that an informal small group could bring together those for whom they care to provide some companionship and that by taking turns each carer could have an afternoon free to re-charge their energy. Clearly this would have to be carefully thought through but if you would like to explore this idea further please talk to Denise or Martin in the Communities First office in Station road or call them on 01341 280979.

Bonfire views

PCSO Kath lake Bullen and Fire Station Officer Steve Morris have drawn together pictures from the Bonfire Night event and created a public display in the window of Aber house at the junction of High Street and Church street. They have also taken the opportunity to put a list of thanks to sponsors and helpers.

Buff’s Party

The annual and very famous Buffs Children’s Christmas Party will be held at he RAOB Buffs Club on Saturday 18^th December throughout the afternoon. There will be free entry for children who will have the chance to meet Father Christmas, receive presents and play party games. The planning and effort that goes into this event is legendary so it is a must for all the smaller residents of the town..

AGE CONCERN

Age Concern invites you to a Christmas Coffee Morning on Tuesday 21st December in the communal lounge at Hafan Deg at 10.30am. There will be many items for sale. The 50p entrance charge will include refreshments. We hope you will be able to attend and look forward to seeing you for a pre Christmas get together.

Go Wales

If you are a graduate and would like to take on further training within the business you own or work for you could get help of up to £1500 for a 50% contribution to the costs. Your degree need not be a recent one and the training that you undertake need not be related to anything done before, you may be looking to add additional skills or take your business in a different direction. For Further information look on the www.gowales.co.uk website or contact Martin at Communities First.

Bingo bonanza

The Ysgol y Traeth bingo night raised a massive £540 which will now be matched by Barclays Bank bringing the total to £1080, under a community scheme that they operate to support local groups. Organisers wish to than Karen and Jane for their help in making the night so much fun for everyone.

Lifeboat

Fundraisers and crew members braved the icy elements on Thursday 2^nd December to gather in the Lifeboat house on a windswept promenade at Barmouth. A thank-you coffee-morning had been arranged to acknowledge the hard work and dedication put in by members of the Fundraising Committee over the year.

Coxswain Peter Davies gave a vote of thanks to the fundraisers for their efforts whose valuable support, he said, helps to raise funds to train and equip the volunteer lifeboat crew. With the Lifeboat flag lowered to half-mast, the coxswain also had the sad duty of informing the gathering that Cedric Griffith, a former coxswain of the Barmouth Lifeboat, had passed away earlier that morning. Cedric was a crewmember between 1981 and 1993 and a popular coxswain from 1991 to 1993. Peter asked those present to stand for a minute’s silence as a mark of respect for their former Cox and friend.

Lifeboat Mechanic Llew Griffin showed a short film, a compilation of lifeboat ‘shouts’ across the UK. This was an excellent way of raising awareness of exactly what is involved when our lifeboats put to sea. Those present were able to see some of the atrocious conditions the crews have to endure and some of the dangerous situations in which these selfless volunteers can find themselves when saving lives at sea. Wendy Ponsford, Chairman of the Fundraising Committee, offered a special vote of thanks to June Davies who manages the RNLI souvenir shop. June reported that a total of £29,541.45 (£16,838.63 of which was profit) had been taken over the counter in sales of souvenirs during 2010. June also thanked the volunteers who man the shop throughout the summer season. She noted that, because of illness of some volunteers this year, a dedicated few had put in extra shifts and further thanks should go to them. If you would be interested in helping out with an occasional voluntary two-hour shift in the souvenir shop next year, you can do so by contacting June Davies on 01341 280 532. Future events include the SOS sponsored walk on Friday 28^th January 2011. Because of the tide on that day, this ‘Saunter on the Sands’ will be shorter than last year. It will be followed by a thank-you bowl of soup at the Lifeboat house afterwards. The coxswain added a reminder that some of the RNLI crew will again be taking a New Year’s Day dip in the sea at about 11 a.m. on January 1^st. This is to be followed by a well-earned and warming barbecue. So if you are planning a New Year’s Day walk along the promenade – stop off to enjoy the crew’s discomfort!

The canon will also be fired on this day in memory of ex-coxswain Keith Allday and crew member Allan Massey who so tragically lost their lives in Barmouth harbour six years ago.

Dragon Theatre

An Auction Day, held on Saturday 4^th December raised over £800 for the funds of the theatre. Melville Penzer thanked Val Vine and all the volunteers who had manned the auction, stalls refreshments and raffle which together raised the amount. Raffle winners were Mary Smallwood, Jean Priestly, Ray Chamberlaine, Evan Williams, Denise Bott and Shelia Jason. Thanks are sent to all who supported.

Hughs Views

The next episode of Hughs Views will be on Monday 6^th December at 10am in the Arts Room of the Dragon Theatre. There are even more new pictures being added to the community gallery. The event, as always is funded by Communities First with the proceeds of the refreshments going to the Theatre funds. Hugh as always gives his time and effort free, Communities First would like to thank him for his great efforts during the year and to thank all those who have contributed to the gallery and enjoyed the results. This year has seen great activity with the gallery and local residents playing a substantial part in the development of the, “For mountain Sea and Sand” event that was produced by the National Theatre of Wales.

Peter Karrie

West End musical star Peter Karrie will be in Barmouth for one night only at the Dragon Theatre where he will perform music from the shows in which he has taken part and will be talking about Episodes in his life on stage. It is an amazing chance to see a top grade singer without having to travel vast distances and at a price that won’t break anyone’s bank. Friday 3^rd December, 7-30pm. Tickets £8,£7,£6 Phone 013241281697 for details and to book.

Theatre auction

Saturday 4^th December there will be a full day event to raise funds for the Dragon Theatre. Starting at 10-30am there will be a Christmas Fair with Craft and charity stalls , there will also be refreshments including a soup lunch for £2. Then at 2pm there will be an auction of various items that have been donated for sale. Further details from Allison Williams on 01341 281697

The Barmouth U3A met on the 10^th November for their Monthly Gathering at Parlwr Mawr in the Dragon Theatre. Following the usual tea & biscuits & monthly Bring & Buy sale, Norma Stockford gave an extremely professional presentation on the Three Peaks Race…its history, from when it was set up, to the present day, with its logistical, financial & administrative complexities. An idea thought of by two local G.P’s over 30 years ago, & inspired by an explorer who happened to live locally has continued to provide motivation and an example to thousands of sailors, & to bring the little seaside town of Barmouth to the attention of the international yachting world. Numerous questions followed, which Norma answered with a smile on her face, in her usual good-humoured, efficient manner. The U3A’s Christmas Party will take place at 6.00pm, on Wednesday 8^th December, in the Arts Room at the Dragon Theatre. Food & entertainment will be on hand, & a good time will be had by all.

Christmas services and children's activities. A messy church will be held in St Johns church Barmouth on Friday 3RD of December at 3-30pm.An event not to be missed. Messy church is lots of fun with crafts worship and supper. Please come and join us and fill the church with song and laughter, children must be accompanied by an adult, this event is free and open to all, a great way to start your Christmas celebrations.

A Help the Heroes service will be held in St Johns on Dec.5th at 11am.please come and support our brave troops serving abroad. The collection will go to the Help the Heroes fund. During Advent there will be a compline by candlelight service in St David’s on the quay, Sunday 5th Dec at 6pm. Carol services .St Philips Caerdeon, Sunday 12th Dec.6pm. St Johns Barmouth Carols by Candlelight 19th Dec 6pm

Christmas eve, St Marys Llanaber 1pm.Midnight Mass 11 pm. St John’s Christmas day St David’s l1am .Sunday 26th Boxing day St Mary’s 9-30 am.

Seagulls

If your bin bags are regularly attacked by seagulls you can contact Phil Jones at Gwynedd Council Dolgellau and he will supply a seagull proof Hessian bag that bin bags can be put into. It is an effective way of preventing rubbish from being spread all over the area.

On the right path

Barmouth Environmental Conservation Group along with the Gwynedd Council Conservation Warden have now completed the creation of a new path on Wern Mynach. The path runs through an area previously cleared by the Cultivations Charity who work with a range of community organisations on projects that enable disadvantaged people to work with community volunteers and develop their skills. The extended path now enables users of the area to get all the way round the site and make use of the whole area..

President Mari O`Rourke welcomed Members, and reported that she and Rose had visited Nansi Dedwydd in the Home at Tremadog. An author writing the history of the W.I. had requested use of photos from the Communities First Community gallery which is often referred to as the Hugh`s Views Website. Doreen Gill read the minutes and letters, then money and names were collected for the Christmas Party on Dec 16th. Pam Payton will be Link Delegate to Liverpool for 2011 National A.G.M. Annual Reports were given: Autumn Council, Mair Jones, Treasurer Rose Morris Savings, Liz Roberts Home Economics, Angela Jones Sports Sheila Davies & Pam Payton, Arts Festival Angela Jones, and Community Centre Christine Leese. Sybil Jones proposed adoption of all the reports. The President reported on other activities and thanked everyone for their work and support. The new committee for 2011 was voted in with Mair Jones as President. Mari thanked tea hostesses Val Vine, Veneta Bath and Susan Wallace, and the raffle was won by Joan Holloway, and Flowers by Blodwen Comerford. Next meeting is the Christmas Party Dec 16th.

BRIG Award

Barmouth Resort Improvement Group were recently nominated for the Green List Wales 2010 Award and were one of the winners. There are 52 winners from across the whole of Wales BRIG were 1 of only 3 in Gwynedd. Rhian Williams and Will Huntley went to an event in Llangollen where they were presented the certificate on behalf of the group. Formed in 2007, Barmouth Resort Improvement Group is a small progressive not for profit group of people from the local area, who are committed to the common goal of improving the town. They aim to achieve this in a radical and ambitious way for example by running projects that range from the simple tidying of neglected small areas to full blown resort changing projects that could make Barmouth a leader in sustainability within the region. They have already delivered a dolphin water feature, Palm trees along the Promenade and rejuvenated the railway station, creating a more attractive environment, and have bold plans for the future. Further information about BRIG and their plans can be seen on their website: http://barmouth-brig.co.uk/latestnews.aspx

Alice in wonderland

Puppetry, song and dance are the media through which this fantastic tale is told by the Oxfordshire Theatre Company at the Dragon Theatre on Thursday 9^th December. This is a show for all the family. Tickets will cost £6,£5, £,4, for the 7pm performance. A chance to let your imagination run wild.

Literary and Debating Society

Ynys is a village that most people must have passed through on their way north from Harlech. Mr Robert Hughes, already well known to the Society was introduced by Mr Michel Benson. He gave a ery interesting talk about the history of Ynys. There is evidence, from the 12^th century showing that indeed Ynys was an island and an important port, being the nearest one to Harlech castle. By the C19th it had become a very popular holiday destination with many places offering accommodation. At this time there was a ferry service to Borth y Gest and Porthmadog. The evening concluded with the vote of thanks being delivered by Mrs Sheila Coles. The next meeting on Thursday 2^nd December will be the members own evening with musical memories presented by Colin Havercroft.

There will be a Christmas Fayre in Hafod Mawddach, Retirement home in Marine Road Barmouth on Friday 10^th December from 3pm till 4-30pm, everyone is invited to go along and see Santa’s Grotto, to take part in the raffle and tombola and see the Help for Heroes stall. A warm welcome awaits you t

December meet for U3A

The Monthly Meeting of the Barmouth U3A will be somewhat different this month, due to the arrival of Christmas in the near future. The date will be Wednesday, 8 December, but the time will be 6.00pm, with 10pm being an approximate time for finishing. The venue will be the Arts Room at the Dragon Theatre, instead of Parlwr Mawr. This will be a party, with an entry charge of £3.00 a head, to cover the cost of food and tea and coffee. Those desperate to bring their own alcohol are invited to do so. And there will be entertainment and general fun and frolics. Those attending will enjoy themselves! If you intend coming along, please contact Evelyn Richardson 0341 250428, to help with food numbers, and also those needing help with transport.

DECEMBER 10th 2010, The Fourth Friday events at the Dragon will come in party style early in December, with Boogie Bill's Billionaires, and a welcome return visit by the Bung Bungs. The Billionaires is a fun and foot-tapping piano-led trio, with the musicians living out their love of the 40's and 50's jump-jive and swing era, as well as having a good romp through some more down and dirty boogie and blues. Bill Roberts on piano will be joined by Laura Andrews on vocals and Paul Froggatt on tenor sax. The ever popular Bung Bungs from Machynlleth will be in support...no doubt they will bring some of their fans with them to join in the party. Tickets will be £10.00 and will include a finger buffet...events have been pretty full recently, so to make sure that you get in, telephone Danny Jones...01341 280903

The Ysgol y Traeth annual bingo night is this year to be sponsored by Barclays Bank. This event is organised by the Friends of The School as part of their annual fund raising programme. This fun night will, this year, take place at the school on November 30^th at 7pm. Doors open at 6-30 . if anyone would like to donate prizes they will be gratefully received on the night or in advance by contacting the school.

Time Bank

The Time Bank Coffee morning, held in the Parlwr Mawr was a great success with the raffle yielding some great prizes. This event received generous support from Blakemores, Iceland and from the Cooperative stores in Barmouth. The organisers wish to acknowledge the generosity in supporting this new community venture.

Theatre Management Committee

The monthly Management meeting was held on Monday 15^th November with Melville Penzer in the Chair. He reported that the six who would become Directors had met with Mike Williams of the Wales Cooperative Centre and had signed the necessary forms and submitted the Articles of Association to establish the new company. It will be known as Dragon Barmouth Ltd. Allison Williams gave her Managers report detailing a very busy schedule of events for November and an even busier time ahead in December. This will include Ysgol y Traeth Christmas Concert and the Bermo Arts Club play along with professional productions. She also reported on the maintenance and servicing work that is proving to be costly. In the Treasures report, Geraldine Vincent also reflected the high cost of running the theatre and centre.

Fund raiser

There will be a fund raising event on Saturday 4^th December, at the Dragon Theatre, of crafts, refreshments and a raffle which will culminate in an auction. Articles to be sold for the benefit of theatre funds would be welcomed at the theatre. Please contact Allison Williams on 01341 81697for more details.

Late Night Shopping Fun

This year there will be a night of community fun and celebration in town to welcome Christmas. The event will be held on the evening of Thursday 2^nd December. The evening will begin at 5-45 with the ringing of the bells of St John’s Church, to be followed by the switching on of the Christmas lights on Talbot Square by the Mayor who will be joined by children singing carols. The Fire Engine and the RNLI members will be on Cors y Gedol car park and there will be a Santa’s Grotto in the Barmouth hotel. Later the choir will sing at the Tal y Don. Around town there will be Gwynfor’s Silver Band, Rob’s Music, Batala Bermo a Wizard Town Crier, face painting, mulled wine and lots more. Posters around town will have the details and times.

Census

The next census will be taken in 2011, this is an opportunity for local people to take on a variety of paid jobs. To get more details have a look at the websitewww.censusjobs.co.uk, about 150 people are needed across North Wales for these posts. If you do not have Internet access you can go on line at the library or call in to Communities First office where the staff will try to help access the information.

On Wednesday afternoon Llanaber Church was packed with friends and relatives for a celebration of the life of Graham Pickton. This followed a private cremation at Aberystwyth earlier in the day. Many present commented on the wonderful atmosphere at the service. Graham had held Barmouth in great esteem from the days in his youth and later when he had enjoyed summer breaks from university working on the Crossville buses. Many years later he retired to Llanaber with Beryl his wife and became an active member of the community and a stalwart member of the Literary & Debating Society and the Gardening club, the size of the congregation paid testimony to his popularity. At a tea party held in the Dragon Theatre, following the service, Graham’s daughter Clare and her brother had created a montage of photographs which many said gave the feeling that Graham was still there amongst them.

PassPlus

The main objectives of Pass Plus Cymru Courses is to encourage young drivers, particularly those in the 17 – 25 year old category to improve their driving skills, lessen the chances of being involved in a collision, injuring themselves, passengers and other road users. It is an enhanced version of the standard Pass Plus course and is supported by the Driving Standards Agency. PPC courses are organised by Gwynedd Council and supported by partner agencies. A course ran in Barmouth on 15th November with 7 candidates. In this instance it was arranged by Barmouth Police and Fire officers and funded by Communities First. A very good, informative and impactive course was presented by Meurig Jones at Barmouth Fire Station. Thanks go to the two Fire Officers who were involved, Steve Morris, Watch Manager who has done a lot of work over the years to develop young drivers safety awareness and Roy Parker. It is anticipated that another course will be offered in the spring. If you would like to take part please contact either P.C.S.O. Kath Lake Bullen, Steve Morris or the Communities First office.

Literary & debating Society

“The working life of a dance band musician in the 50’s and 60’s “ was the subject of a talk by Mr Carlton Jackson on 18^th November. There were 22 members present with Mr Derek Gladstone in the Chair. Mr Jackson had taken up the trumpet at the age of 13, his choice of instrument was decided by the £25 in his pocket at the time. He joined amateur bands before playing in R.A.F. military bands during his national service. After studying part time at the Birmingham Conservatoire, as it is now called, he successfully auditioned for the Teddy Foster band and later Ronny Hancock’s band. The speaker described, often in humorous detail, his sessions playing for dancing at Filey and at Weston-Super-Mare which could go on until 2am in the morning. The talk was illustrated with nostalgic recordings of the big bands of that era. Mrs Rita Gladstone thanked Mr Jackson for an extremely informative and clearly presented talk which evoked fond memories of the ballroom.

The next meeting will be on Thursday 25^th November when Mr Robert Hughes will speak on, “The history of Ynys”

The Barmouth U3A met on the 10^th November for their Monthly Gathering at Parlwr Mawr in the Dragon Theatre. Following the usual tea & biscuits & monthly Bring & Buy sale, Norma Stockford gave an extremely professional presentation on the Three Peaks Race…its history, from when it was set up, to the present day, with its logistical, financial & administrative complexities. An idea thought of by two local G.P’s over 30 years ago, & inspired by an explorer who happened to live locally has continued to provide motivation and an example to thousands of sailors, & to bring the little seaside town of Barmouth to the attention of the international yachting world. Numerous questions followed, which Norma answered with a smile on her face, in her usual good-humoured, efficient manner. The U3A’s Christmas Party will take place at 6.00pm, on Wednesday 8^th. December, in the Arts Room at the Dragon Theatre. Food & entertainment will be on hand, & a good time will be had by all!

On NOVEMBER 26th 2010, “The Fourth Friday” events at the Dragon will continue their programme of quality acoustic blues, with an evening in the company of Jim Crawford. Jim, who readily admits that he’d rather go fishing with his dog for company than enter a recording studio, has, none the less, toured much of the USA and Europe, captivating audiences with his intimate blues style. A contemporary of Wizz Jones and Tom Doughty, he first came to the attention of a wider blues audience, when invited to record a session for the BBC’s Paul Jones Show. In support will be Nick’s Old Time Band...an eclectic mix of banjos, guitars, fiddles and more, guaranteed to get your feet tapping. Since the last show was a sell out, and this night promises to be extremely popular once again, it is recommended that you contact Danny Jones, 01341 280903 to reserve your ticket.

Gwynedd’s Got Talent

Have you got what it takes to stand out from the crowd? Are you a musician, performer, stand up comedian. If you want to take a challenge you can enter the first round of Gwynedd’s got talent at Theatr Harlech on Tuesday 23 November. It costs £2 to enter. The final will be on December 11^th with a first prize of £100. More details are on the theatres website.

Not Open Day

The Open Day that was being planned for November 20^th at the Youth Club in the Pavilion leisure centre has been postponed to the New Year. Some of the events that the organisers had hoped to provide on this day will not be available and they feel it better to organise another event and give participants plenty of advance notice.

Bonfire Night

The hard work put in by Kath Lake Bullen and Rita Johnson along with members of the emergency services and local people resulted in a spectacular and safe bonfire night event. Local people generously donated over a £1000 pounds on the night to enable the organisers to plan for next year with confidence. Food provided by Nina Huntley and cooked by the yacht Club members was greatly appreciated by the people who went along to watch the show. The Lantern Parade accompanied by Barmouth‘s own Samba band gave a unique and lively twist to the event. Everyone involved should be congratulated on the great result of their hard work.

The A.G.M. of the Festival was held on Monday 8^th November, having been a successful event in 2010, showing a profit to be added to the reserves. It was therefore agreed to stage another Festival in 2011on the dates of 3^rd-10^th September. Ideas for the programme were discussed. Officers elected were: President Roy Treherne, Chairman Melville Penzer, Vice Chairman Sue Slater, Treasurer David Clay, Stage Manager and Programme Secretary Melville Penzer, Minutes Secretary Val Vine, Press Secretary Martin Williams.

Gymdeithas Gymraeg

Members enjoyed a wonderful musical evening on Wednesday 10^th November. Chairman John Willams introduced, and later thanked the talented group PUMSAIN, a groups of five ladies from the Tywyn and Machynlleth area. Their voices blended well and their choice of songs was much appreciated. The raffle was won by Lillian Edwards , the tea and scones were, as ever organised by Megan Vaughan. John Williams has agreed to represent the Gymdeithas on the Arts Festival committee, replacing Mair Jones who has retired.

Credit union

Rules have changed at the Y Llechen Credit Union to allow faster processing of loans and has removed the need for people to be members for a qualifying period. This means that first time loans can often be processed within two weeks. The AGM of the Credit union will be held in Bangor later this month at which it is hoped there will be a vote in favour of a merger with four other Credit Unions . If passed that will result in a great increase in the number and variety of services being offered to members. The Credit Union currently operates on Thursday mornings between 11am and 1pm from the Communities First office in Station Road. Leaflets and application forms can be collected during normal office hours. The Welsh Assembly Government support credit unions as a method of delivering low cost credit as an alternative to doorstep lenders and loan sharks. Often people without bank accounts have difficulty accessing affordable credit, Credit unions are available to everyone. As with all finance organisations several forms of identification and proof of address are needed when opening an account.

Peter Karrie

West end musical star Peter Karrie will be performing at Barmouth’s Dragon Theatre for one night only on Friday December 3^rd. This is an opportunity to see an international performer singing songs from the shows and talking about his career in the intimate atmosphere of the Dragon. Tickets are already available for reservations by calling the box office on 01341 281697

Our President welcomed members and visitors to the October meeting. "Meirion" was sung accompanied by Blodwen Comerford Apologies were received from Val Ann,Sybil, Janet,Glenys, and Pat. Sad news that Jane Griffiths would be leaving Barmouth soon, also that a previous long time member Freda Hancock has died. Best wishes were given to Birthday Girls for the coming month. Doreen read the Minutes which were confirmed and signed. Bingo sessions were starting again in Nov. at Llanelltyd, also Scrabble has started. Harlech has adopted their railway station platform, cleaning and decorating it, photos are on Arriva web site. Brethyn Cartref is now available. The Resolution for this year to be taken to the Albert Hall is that we object to the closure of public toilets. Details are available for Computer Courses. Sunday 12th Dec a Carol service will be held at Penrhyndeudraeth and on 17th at Llanfair All welcome. A letter of thanks to helpers at the Arts Festival in September ,a donation from the organizers was gratefully received. Mair Jones gave a report on Group Artro`s activities, the Summer Fair will be held in Barmouth again next year following the success this year. The Christmas Dinner will be held this year at Min y Mor on December 16th and on the 4th Dec there will be an Auction in the Arts room at the Dragon theatre at 11 am Goods beforehand but no electrical items. Mari introduced the guest of the evening Carol Harvey, Hairdresser and Aroma therapist who is due to be part of a team at a salon in Portmeirion. We spent an interesting evening learning that perfumes and aromas were not the same thing. The natural oils are very concentrated and must be diluted with a carrier oil. However Bergamot, teatree and peppermint can go directly on to the skin for particular problems. Carol passed round straws dipped in various oils for us to guess the aromas. We then paired up to give each other hand massage following Carol`s demonstration ,which was most relaxing. We had some lovely homemade refreshments prepared by Mair Jones, Vicky Pell and Wendy Ponsford, the raffle was won by Geinor Lavender which drew the evening to a close .Next month 24th November will be Annual General Meeting.

At the meeting on Thursday November 4^th members heard Mr Huw Jenkins talk about his house Plas Duallt, the house on the black hill, which is situated near Tan y Bwlch, to which he moved six years ago. The property is one of the ancient hall house of Meirionnydd retaining its cruck bams and dating from around 1500. The building has been beautifully restored as was evidenced by the pictures shown to the interested audience. Huw gave information about previous owners of the property including Colonel Campbell. He also talked about the surrounding area exploring topics such as Bats, Ghosts and the Ffestinniog railway. The talk made a welcome bright spot after a day of miserable weather. At the meeting on November 11^th members will take part in “Putting the world to rights”.

The Communities First Trust Fund still has some money available for local groups. This may be the last year in which this money is available as it may fall victim to the cuts in the Welsh Assembly budgets. Any local group that is located in or for the benefit of Barmouth can apply. Please contact Martin or Denise in the Communities First office in Station Road to discuss your needs.

Bruce Ismay Managing Director of the White Star Line escaped the sinking Titanic on a lifeboat. This forms the core of the play written by Patrick Prior that is to be performed in the Dragon theatre on Friday November 12^th by Pat Abernathy and Dave Marsden. The play has received good reviews and is being brought to Barmouth by isosceles theatre company. Tickets will cost £7, £6, £5 for the performance that starts at 7-30pm.

A pilot programme is being run in Barmouth that allows people to self refer to the Physiotherapy unit in Dolgellau. The scheme is designed for minor problems that do not require treatment at the surgery such as sprains, strains etc. By completing a self assessment form and sending it to the hospital in Dolgellau it will be possible to arrange treatment more quickly. If you need a form please call in to the Communities First office in Station Road.

The Barmouth Time Bank Coffee morning will be held on Thursday 11^th from 9-30 till 2pm.in Parlwr Mawr of the Ddragon Theatre There will be brick a brack and raffle stalls in addition to an information stall that will help people understand what the time bank will do and how to join.

The Monthly Meeting of the Barmouth U3A will be held at 2.00pm on Wednesday 10^th. November, in Parlwr Mawr at the Dragon Theatre. The meeting will start with the usual sales stall, together with a cup of tea & time to socialise. And as usual, new members, and those interested in seeing what the U3A gets up to are very welcome. The Barmouth to Fort William Three Peaks Race is an extremely challenging annual sailing and running event, which has been held for over thirty years, and which has become an important part of the British sailing calendar. Norma Stockford, one of the main members of the management team, will give a presentation covering ’Thirty-three Years of the Barmouth to Fort William Three Peaks Race. How it began, what’s involved, where it goes, and how it keeps going…’ Anyone interested in Barmouth, history, sailing, and the sea will find this an enlightening presentation.

Advice and guidance

Elfyn Llwyd M.P. will be holding his constituency surgery in the Communities First offices , Station Road Barmouth on November 5^th from 3pm till 4pm, no appointment is necessary. Citizens advice Bureau will have an advisor, also at the Communities First offices on November 8^th from 11am till 1pm again this is a drop in service, no appointment is needed. The Kiosk with the touch screen information system is available every day from 9-30 till 4-3opm at the same location.

Wedding ( Photo of Mark Thomas and Jane Hallard)

Mark Thomas, son of Dorrien and Mair, Brymeillion, Llanpumpsaint and Jane Hallard of Bay View Restaurant Llanaber, daughter of Brian and Diane Hallard of Hendre Coed Isaf Holiday Park, Llanaber were married at Aberystwyth on 13^th September with immediate family present. Parties were subsequently held at Hendre Coed Isaf and at the Halfway, Carmarthen. Donations of over £3000 were collected in lieu of presents, for their chosen charity, Cancer Research. Their honeymoon was taken in the Caribbean island of St Kitts. Mark and Jane would liker to thank everyone for all their good wishes and generous donations.

Junior Team developing

Barmouth and Dyffryn Football Club has begun a major fund raising campaign to improve Club facilities with particular emphasis upon the development of an "Academy" pitch for the Junior Teams and parking facilities. The new Club Membership scheme, designed primarily to raise funds for the Juniors, has made an excellent start with nearly 40 supporters and parents having signed up so far, either as Lifetime Members for £100, or Annual Members for £10 per annum. Members receive the benefit of discounts for match entrance fees, Club Kit purchases, and Club events, as well as receipt of the Club's new Newsletters.

Literary and Debating society

The speaker at the meeting last Thursday was Robert Evans of the Gwynedd Archaeological Trust. He spoke about and illustrated the project that is studying various aspects of the coastline from prehistoric times to the present and invited members of the public to contribute their observations. The next meeting, on November 4th, at 7-30pm in Parlwr Mawr will be addressed by Mr Huw Jenkins on Plas y Duallt. All are welcome to attend..

Bonfire

The community bonfire event will be held on Friday night, all are welcome to attend and see the spectacular display that is planned. The procession of lanterns, at 6-3opm from the Lifeboat station to the Bath house will precede the start of the fireworks at 7pm.

PaddleEvent

With the growing popularity of paddlesports, the Mawddach Rotary club has been seeking ways of capitalising on the fantastic opportunities offered by the finest estuary in Wales. After extensive consultations with Canoe Wales, and representatives of the Town Council, Barmouth Publicity Association and the Harbourmaster, a two day event is being devised for the high tides on May 21/22nd next year. The event will be centred on Barmouth to enable paddlers to ascend the course to George 111 on the incoming tide and to return as the tide changes. Entertainment in the form of a Jazz band and Saturday night Barbecue is aimed at attracting families into the area for the event. All sorts of paddlecraft will be involved from Celtic longboats, kayaks, canoes, rafts and even coracles. Further attractions will be a Sea Kayak fishing competition over the weekend, trade stands, and free have a go sessions and fun races. It is hoped to attract sponsorship for the event from local businesses and of course from the participants. Profits from the event will be distributed by the Rotary club to Rotary supported causes – the principal one being Hope House/ Ty Gobaith this year. Further details will be published on the event website ( www.paddlewales.com ) as they are finalised. Anyone wishing to help with, or support the event through sponsorship is invited to contact the Mawddach Rotary club through the website.

How2

Barney is offering free web design sessions at the Communities First centre in Station Road. These sessions are offered free to local people who want to design a website for their business or personal use. There are a limited number of places. It is planned to start on Tuesday 26 October for five weeks from 10am till 12 noon. Call in at the office to let Denise or Martin know that you will be coming.

In readiness for the community bonfire and fireworks event on 5^th November a ”Make a Guy” Competition will be held on Wednesday 4^th November 2010 at Ysgol Y Traeth, Barmouth. The competition is free and open to young people under the age of 17 years of age and entries would need to be at the school by 1pm on that day.All welcome to this event at the school. The quality of the entries has, in previous years, been exceedingly high and a panel of judges will have the unenviable task of deciding which three Guys will take pride of place on top of the bonfire. All the other Guys will be placed around the bonfire during the day on 5^th November. Lighting of the community bonfire will be at 6.30pm with a lantern parade starting from the Leisure Centre and walking towards the bonfire area at 6.40pm. Hot food – burgers, hot dogs and hot drinks will be provided by the Yacht Club on the night, using the covered area at the Bath House. The harbour road will be closed to vehicles from 5pm till 8pm from the junction of Church Street and vehicles will be directed to the promenade via Jubilee Road and to the main car park. Spectators will be directed along the promenade area by nominated marshals. Volunteers are always welcome to help with the event. If you would like to get involved please contact PCSO Kath Lake-Bullen 07768 556 307 or Steve Morris 07775 730 113.

Bowling Club
The Annual General meeting was held on Saturday 9th October, it was very well attended. Mary Smallwood made a very good job of organizing the venue at the Royal Hotel for the end of season evening meal and presentation. The food was excellent, enjoyed by everyone and in a good atmosphere. The evening was made extra special as Colin Havercroft joined us after a long illness. He made a lovely speech and everyone was pleased to see him and also his wife Alma. Trophies was then presented to the allotted winners by Marie Flavel lady captain, Stan Ward captain and Phil Powel vice captain. Bill Gaskell made a short speech thanking everyone for all they had done during 2010.Before the raffle was drawn Derek Denfhy raffled 3 special prizes of which the money was being donated to the Parkinsons Society. Ruth Lloyd and Bill then drew the raffle which contained beautiful prizes donated by the club members. It raised over £100.00 so thank you to everyone for a very good evening had by all.

The Barmouth and Dyffryn United Football Club has made a generally successful start to the 2010-2011 Football Season.The highlight has been the success of the Club's Reserve Team which is now top of the Caernarfon & District League First Division. The Reserve Team players are now looking forward in particular to a Safeflue Cup home match against Harlech on Saturday, 30th October, when all club supporters will be welcome. The First Team has ended a losing streak, caused by injuries, when last Saturday the Team won 4-3 away to Llanrug United. The First Team players now look forward with confidence to a repeat match against Llanrug at the home ground in Wern Mynach, Barmouth, next Saturday, 23rd October, when again all club supporters will be welcome. The Club's Junior Teams are also doing well, with the Under 14's in particular unbeaten so far this season. With 68 youngsters now signed on across the Junior Teams, the Barmouth Club has begun a major fund raising campaign to improve Club facilities with particular emphasis upon the development of an "Academy" pitch for the Junior Teams and parking facilities. The new Club Membership scheme, designed primarily to raise funds for the Juniors, has made an excellent start with nearly 40 supporters and parents having signed up so far, either as Lifetime Members for £100, or Annual Members for £10 per annum. Members receive the benefit of discounts for match entrance fees, Club Kit purchases, and Club events, as well as receipt of the Club's new Newsletters. On Saturday, 6th November, the Club will be holding its second fund raising "Casino and Horse Racing" evening at the RAOB (Buffs) Club, Barmouth. Tickets, which are now available, will cost £10 per person. Anyone interested in joining the Club Membership Scheme or wishing to purchase tickets for the Casino evening should contact either Wil Huntley, Club Chairman, The Mermaid Fish Bar, Jubilee Road, Barmouth, mobile telephone number 079127 48875, or Brian Wood, Club Secretary, telephone number 01341 280103.

Broadband

Barmouth residents and businesses have the chance to get involved in BT's Race to Infinity campaign. The initiative, which was launched by the telecoms giant at the beginning of October, will see the five exchange areas in the UK with the highest demand for fibre optic broadband - in terms of the percentage of properties served have their service improved If you think Barmouth should gain access to super-fast broadband, you need to vote on the BT Race to Infinity website before December 31st 2010.

Housing survey

The rural Housing Enabler, Arfon Hughes has been advising and supporting Barmouth Communities First Partnership in the development of an in depth questionnaire that will be sent to every household in Barmouth. The aim of the survey is to work out what housing will be needed in the private and social sectors in the coming years. This is not just a survey of homelessness, it is relevant to everyone, it seeks to understand how people’s needs change as they pass through life. There is an assumption at present that there will be a steady increase in the number of one person households as the population ages, however there may by a number of ways of dealing with that situation. Similarly young families need homes where again there are various options to be considered. The survey will go out in November with a request for its return before Christmas so that analysis can be begun.

Comedy Club

Friday night in the Arts Room performance space at the Dragon Theatre there will be a Comedy club with M.C. Tony Vino who will be introducing Gary Delaney and Andy Kind two stand up comedians each having unique styles of delivery. This will be a great evening. That has been devised by theatr Harlech and delivered by the Dragon.. Tickets can be bought in advance for £7-50, if you are going as a group there is a price deal of 10 for £50 saving a massive £25. The bar will be open for the evening too. Perhaps a regular comedy club with open mike sessions could become part of the Barmouth scene if there is enough interest.

Back to work

It is clear that many more people will need, in the future, to think about taking some kind of employment. Many who have never considered this will find it a confusing and perhaps scary prospect. It does not need to be; there is lots of help and support available. At the moment Genesis is looking to help several categories of people in particular: young mums, young people who are not in education, or in training or in work and older people who have never worked. There will be confidence building sessions along with help in getting or improving skills, sessions on how to apply for jobs and much more. If you want to explore the options call in at Communities First and talk with Martin or Denise and pick up some leaflets. Additional help is there for people who feel uncomfortable with reading, writing or computers.

The regular jazz sessions continue in the Arts Room performance space at the Dragon theatre on the 22^nd with Blue Tree headlining the evening, they are a four piece band from Aberystwyth with lead singer Nicky Burgess. They will be supported by a vocal quartet called Roxanne and the Harrys. This strong line up promises a good night with a mix of jazz standards and contemporary music. Tickets at £7-50 or £6 can be reserved by calling Danny on 01341 280903..

Gymdeithas Gymraeg

The new season started on Wednesday 6^th October with a lovely evening with Cor Meibion Ardudwy. Held in the Arts Room , their choice of songs was well received and appreciated by the members and friends. The Choir was introduced and warmly thanked by the Chairman John Williams and the raffle was won by les Vaughan, Greta Cartwright and Aled Jones. Les Darbyshire will be the speaker at the next meeting on Wednesday 20^th October.

Reminder

The Dads and lads event will be held in the old youth centre Talbot Square on Saturday 16th from 11am till 3pm.This is a free event, there will be plenty to do, free drinks, the smoothy bike will be there and several support agencies will be on hand. This is an experiment to find out what Dads n lads would like to be able to do, the organisers will be looking for your ideas and suggestions.

The next Monthly Meeting of the Barmouth U3A will be held at 2.00pm on Wednesday 13^th. October, in Parlwr Mawr at the Dragon Theatre. The meeting will start with the usual sales stall, together with a cup of tea & time to socialise. As usual, new members, and those interested in seeing what the U3A gets up to are very welcome. A presentation will be given by John Smith, on ‘Climate Change – Good Science, Bad Policy?’ The talk will consist of a review of the scientific evidence for both natural and human induced climate change, including a ‘game’ dealing with carbon footprints, and a discussion on the policy issues involved. This is an issue that concerns everyone, when members will be able to express their views, and hopefully learn from the points of view of others.

Blooming good effort ( pictures show volunteers who helped plant bulbs on Wern Mynach Barmouth )

Last Thursdays flower bulb planting on Wern Mynach was successfully carried out by BECG and the willing volunteers who turned out to help with the work. Not the least of these being the Brownies Troop together with their leader Mrs, Ann Vaughen Jones. The thanks of BECG is extended to all who gave there help with this enterprise Including LL Building Supplies Barmouth for their donation towards the cost of the necessary tools, and Communities First for the valuable assistance in publicising the event. Further development is being planned for the Wern by BECG which will involve the pupils of Ysgol-y-Traeth in an exciting new project. More about this later; 'but watch this space.'

Design a site

Learn with Barney is an opportunity for local people, especially those in business, to learn how to build their own web site. The sessions will be held at Communities First and will be free of charge as Barney is offering his time free and Communities First are supplying the venue and access to computers. If you need to publicise your enterprise more widely, or want advice on more advanced items like promoting your site or choosing the right content these informal sessions could e right for you. Please phone Martin on 01341 280979 or call in to the office to discuss this further. It is hoped that the four or five sessions can start in late October on Wednesday afternoons.

Dads n lads

Yes daughters can come too, to this session in the old youth club on Talbot Square that is to be run as a fun day to let fathers and their children have fun together. There will be games, crafts, co0mpetitions etc. The session will open at 11am and run till 3pm. There will be free drinks during the day but it is suggested that you bring a packed lunch. The date for this is Saturday 16^th October. If you are coming it would be helpful if you let Denise know on 01341 280979, not essential but helpful for planning. This is organised by Communities First in partnership with North Wales Play Association and Gwynedd Council. There will also be a post it wall where dads can put suggestions about the sort of services or assistance they would like to see being offered to them.

What a view

The Hugh’s Views session in the Dragon Theatre last Monday attracted its biggest crowd yet. Hugh was able to announce that in the three years the community gallery has been operating over 250 people have offered over 2600 images to be uploaded leading to 248000 hits on the site. Victor Biddle had compiled cine films of carnivals from days gone by onto a cd that was played on Monday, which adds a new dimension to this amazing archive. During the week activity on the site rocketed and has now passed the 250,000 hit mark and a collection of 32 more photos was received with a promise of even more to follow. Key to this success is Hugh Roberts for his tireless efforts and amazingly broad local knowledge. This wonderful community project is now being observed by other bodies that are keen to learn from Barmouth’s example.

Tenshun

The Barmouth Army Cadet detachment reopened on Monday 4^th October at the centre in Park road, by the railway footbridge. Anyone from 12 to 18 is welcome to go along and find out what is on offer. There will be plenty of exciting activities and the chance to build good friendships, the training offered will be useful in many spheres of life and will be helpful in preparing young people for life beyond school. In addition adults are needed to help develop the detachment by offering one evening per week and one weekend in 6. If you go along at 7pm on a Monday you are sure .of a warm welcome.

New Season starts

The new programme for the Barmouth Lit & Deb Soc begins on the 11^th Oct with the President’s Evening in the Parlwr Mawr at the Dragon Theatre @ 7.30pm The speaker will be Dr Haworth talking about Major Tilman who was lost at sea in 1977. The week after on the 21^st Oct “Augustus John the Artist” will be the subject of a talk by the eminent lecturer Dr David Craik. All are welcome to the Thursday evenings, a subscription of £11 will make you a member or£2 a visitor for an evening, including tea & biscuits.

The President Mari O`Rourke, welcomed members back after the summer break and members opened the meeting by singing Meirion. There were many apologies for absence, several being in hospital, Best wishes cards have been sent to them. Happy Birthday was given to all who would be celebrating during the next month. Doreen ,the assistant Secretary read the Minutes of the last meeting which were confirmed and signed. The TableTop sale of last meeting raised £74. Mari thanked all who helped at the summer events, the County Show, the For Mountain Sand and Sea, the

Art and Craft Exhibition at the Dragon Theatre during the Festival Week. Photographs of the County Show Exhibits were passed round with the judges` comments. The Darts Team will be in training for the next competition soon ,contact Sheila Davies for dates. Mari then introduced the Guest of the evening Gordon Rhodes from Welshpool who gave an exciting and colourful talk with slides of his experiences with a party of likeminded enthusiasts motorcycling up the Himalayas encountering deprivation of basic human needs, and hairbreadth escapes through rocky mountain paths. The scenery was breathtaking, the people and buildings were amazing however best appreciated by W.I. members watching the screen from their comfortable seats ! Then followed a gorgeous tea provided by Pat Bunce Chris Dearden and Buddug Jones The Raffle was won by Mary Smallwood and the flowers by Liz Roberts. Next meeting Oct.27th with Carol Harvey on Aromatherapy. New members welcome.

Bermo Arts

Bermo Arts are planning a couple of events to encourage and welcome new members to enable them to develop new productions. Whilst actors are always needed there are many more roles within the group for those happy to work on the technical side, designing and creating scenery, organising promotion and advertising, acquiring props , prompting etc. If you have an interest in community based theatre either in or out of the spotlight you should go along on Monday 4^th October at 7pm to an open evening where you can meet some of the current members and discuss options or on Thursday 7^th October to the Coffee Morning where there will be another chance to meet and chat with members. Workshop sessions will also be offered in the near future, supported by the National Theatre of Wales, a new resource for community groups to draw upon..

College names

Coleg Meirion Dwyfor has merged with Llandrillo College which has many sites across North Wales. The unified group are attempting to offer new courses and deliver them as and where needed, which gives communities the opportunity to have input into what is delivered in their area. They are piloting an idea whereby if a number of people phone in requesting a particular topic they will try to set up a course to suit. If you have suggestions you can call the Dolgellau campus on 01341 422827. There is also a new business unit, which aims to support business people in providing training sessions that are relevant to their needs.

Moonfleet is a wild and thrilling tale of shipwrecks and smuggling, dastardly deeds and intrigue it will be performed on Friday night October 1^st by “Angel exit theatre”, a professional touring company at the Dragon theatre. The performance in Barmouth comes as part of an arts Council funded tour of the U.K. This is a family friendly show, tickets will cost £7 for adults and £4 for children, to book in advance call 01341 281697 or pay at the door.

The Barmouth U3A Monthly Gatherings started again on Wednesday 8^th. September at the Dragon Theatre, with a lively presentation to start off the winter season. Gerwyn Jones, of the Cambrian Railways Partnership talked about his multi faceted role in publicising the Cambrian Coast Line, as well as the actual services provided by the railway, “From Trailways to Aleways.” The numerous questions from the audience demonstrated the interest created, and the huge range of publicity leaflets showed the scope of interests & services covered. This was a good one to start the season, and will be followed next month by a presentation by John Smith on ‘Climate Change – Good Science, Bad Policy? The Cambrian Railways offer some of the most scenic rail journeys anywhere in the U.K. The Cambrian Main Line, between Aberystwyth and Shrewsbury, travels through the rolling hills of Montgomeryshire to the glorious sandy beaches of Cardigan Bay, while the Cambrian Coast Line, between Machynlleth and Pwllheli, offers passengers unrivalled views of the coast and peaks of Snowdonia. Gerwyn Jones, from the Cambrian Railways Partnership, will give a presentation on ‘The Cambrian Railways…The Train Attraction’, discussing how these railways are promoted. This promises to be an interesting afternoon both for train buffs and general members alike.

The Fourth Friday events at the Dragon will kick off again on 24^th Sept. with Quango, a five-piece band playing all those standards that people know & love. Barmouth is already familiar with some of the band members…Garry Bywater who plays with Huw Warren will be on tenor sax, Greg Robley & Andy McKenzie who appeared at the Dragon with Gadjo will be on keyboard & guitar, they will be joined by Ray Forrest on drums, and Ben Tunnicliffe on bass. In support will be Ron Wall from Llanegryn, who sings & plays guitar with a number of acoustic blues & bluegrass musicians from the Tywyn area. This promises to be a great night to start the autumn once again, so don’t forget to book your tickets in advance call Danny Jones 01341 280903, to ensure that you get a good seat.

Autumn classes

A range of classes for the autumn are being offered at the Dragon Theatre including popular topics such as Family History and computer use, more details are available by calling the theatre on 01341 281697

“Angel exit theatre”, a professional touring company will be performing a wild and thrilling tale of shipwrecks and smuggling, dastardly deeds and intrigue at the Dragon theatre on October 1^st. This high class company is visiting Barmouth as part of an arts Council funded tour of the U.K. This is a family friendly show, tickets will cost £7 for adults and £4 for children, to book in advance call 01341 281697 or pay at the door.

Hughs Views will be in the Arts Room at the Dragon on Monday 27^th at 10am, this event will also be including previously unseen film footage. Entry is free but any coffee or tea sold helps Dragon Theatre funds.

Should there be an organisation to represent the businesses in Barmouth? Long ago the Chamber of Trade ceased functioning and nothing has taken its place. Do any businesses feel that they could be more effective if they worked in cooperation with others or do they think they are better keeping themselves to themselves? These are questions that have been raised over a period of time with Communities First, some times by local businesses and often by outside agencies that look for a local body to talk with. If you have thoughts on the subject please contact Martin or Denise at Communities First in Station Road, they want to help develop jobs and a strong economy but need input from those facing challenges to tell them what is needed.

The Biennial Quilt and craft festival will be held between 15^th & 19th Sept. You are invited to view between 10am —5pm daily. A website has been created that will give more information, its address is www.artinintheaisles.co.uk The locations to be used are Dyffryn Ardudwy Village hall, Llanenddwyn Church, the stables, at Dyffryn, Church hall, LLanddwywe Church. Free entry.

A Huntington’s Disease fund raising event was held on Bank holiday Saturday at Fron y graig in Barmouth High Street by kind permission of Mr & Mrs Gwynfor Owen. It was again sponsored by LL DIY Barmouth and the organisers would like to thank them for their generous support along with the many other Barmouth shopkeepers who also kindly donated raffle prizes. Thanks are also due to the loyal supporters who gave donations and provided items for the stalls and all who helped in so many ways. The interest of locals and visitors alike was tremendous and led to £1,002.95 being raised for the cause. This has been sent to the Huntington’s Disease Research Group at King’s College, London to help further research onto this disorder.

Peter read was in Barmouth to perform the last performance of his tribute to Dylan Thomas. The script covered the time Thomas spent in America and demonstrated the feelings of a man who became hostage to his image. The incessant touring and lecturing, necessary to fuel an increasingly manic lifestyle, seem to have brought him little joy. An early and sad demise would not seem the recipe from which to make an evenings entertainment but the reaction of the audience proved that Peter Read achieved just that, giving them an insight into the character of genius.

When the piano tuner discovered for whom he was tuning the Dragon theatres grand piano he was mightily impressed. Gwilym Simcock, who was supported by Russian bass player Yuri Goloubev and Drummer James Maddren, gave a performance that audiences at the Dragon will not have seen before. For those who understand the intricacies of producing jazz this was an evening of awe and amazement. The audience came from far and wide but the furthest was a couple who had travelled from Germany for the concert. The players themselves had travelled in variously from Madrid, Denmark and Wimbledon for Thursday nights performance. At 28 Gwilym is both performer and composer who cites influences by musicians as diverse as Keith Jarrett and Igor Stravinsky.

Trevor Fishlock was in town for the Arts festival, as a performer, with a tale or two to tell. He talked about the career that led up to the various television series that he has brought to the screen in recent years. During his employment with the Times he reported in depth from over sixty countries though it is probably true to say that his work in bringing lesser known gems in Wales to the attention of people of Wales is what makes him instantly popular with audiences

Counterfeit Bee Gees

There has been great variety in this years Arts Festival, not least on Friday evening when people were literally dancing in the aisles at the theatre to the sounds of the seventies as the tribute band strutted their stuff with great conviction. Far more than toe tapping was going on as they had the whole place swinging.

Its Magic

Howard Hughes is an accomplished conjurer who put on a show especially for a younger audience on Saturday last. His act attracted a very good crowd of youngsters who were thrilled and amazed as things appeared and disappeared before their fascinated faces. It is not surprising that he was good, he is former President of the North Wales Magic Circle, and like all good magicians , didn’t give away any of his secrets

Local talent

One of the good things about the Barmouth Arts Festival is that it draws high quality professional performers to the town and mixes them on a programme that recognises the talents that abound locally too. So it was that Fawlty Towers produced by Bermo Arts took a well deserved part in this years programme with a show that has been a consistent sell out. In addition to this the W.I. crafts show was equally deserving of recognition because it was a show case for an array of skills and abilities that have led to the production of some superb individual pieces. Being known for their high quality work there was a substantial crowd all eager to see their work. During the week a display of work by local artists has been available for viewing during intermissions, clearly the art is popular as a number of works were sold during the Festival.

St John’s Church hosted the last night of the 36^th Arts Festival because the acoustics of the building and its sheer size were perfect for one of Wales’ premier choirs. This invitation only choir can boast that it draws the creme de la creme from choirs across North Wales. This means that they have access to superb soloists and enables them to deliver stunning music in any genre. Backed by an amazingly good accompanist and a conductor who built an instant and strong relationship with the large audience the evening was an assured success.

Hughs Views

The next session of Hugh’s Views will be held in the Arts Room of the Dragon Theatre on Monday 27^th September at 10am. In addition to the growing number of images on the Communities First web site there will be an opportunity to see some interesting period moving film. The site has been viewed almost a quarter of a million times since it began developing just over three years ago. Hugh will be narrating the event and it is hoped that there will be visitors from other communities that hope to emulate the success of the Barmouth community archive. Entry is free, all are welcome, sales of coffee and tea are for the benefit the Dragon Theatre.

The Original Factory shop celebrated the first anniversary of their opening in Barmouth with a fancy dress party. Becca, Nicky and the team raised £1000-76 for their nominated charity “Barmouth RNLI” through fun days and raffles. The latest raffle, drawn by Liam McAffrey of Llwyngwril was won by Neville Crumpton, Mags Mercer and Mr and Mrs Mercer. The team want to thank all those customers that have supported them in their first year.

What course

Do you look at the papers and think that the colleges never offer the course you would like to do? Coleg Meirion Dwyfor also now known as Llandrillo College has come up with a novel idea. They are asking people to ring in on 01341 422827 and tell them the courses they would like to see running. If sufficient interest in a topic is shown the college will try to respond.

Radio Barmouth

Lots of people were interested in the concept of a radio station for Barmouth at the end of the Assembly organised by the National Theatre of Wales last month. A small group including Devinder and Mathilde from the National Theatre met at Communities First on Monday last to talk about the possibilities. The most achievable version would be an on demand internet service where listeners could download podcasts and in effect create their own schedule. This system would allow anyone to upload content making it a truly community station. The next step will be to hold a workshop session where various questions will be answered and new ideas incorporated. If you would like to be part of this talk to Martin in Communities First or Barry Lim who can often be found performing on a Tuesday evening at the Last Inn.

Festival opening night

Both President Roy Treherne and Chairman Melville Penzer paid tribute to the hard work put in by the Arts Festival Committee in creating the 36^th Barmouth Arts Festival that opened on Saturday. Special mention was made of the 18 years of dedicated work given by Festival Secretary Mair Jones. Saturday evenings opening concert drew back to Barmouth the amazing Hughes family who performed a really interesting, lively and varied mix of music. Their commentary between pieces explaining the choices and the stories behind the composers gave the evening the intimate feel that can only be achieved in a venue like the Dragon. The icing on an already sumptuous cake was provided by the internationally acclaimed talent of Rhys Meirion. The ease with which they all worked together was explained when Rhys mentioned that they had worked together recently to produce a CD. His song choices included a work by local composer Meirion Williams along with pieces in Italian and English. At the interval a complimentary and most generous buffet was served, with wine to the appreciative audience.

New in town

To counter the doom and gloom stories about jobs and business in the media it is good to be able to report that a shop that had been empty for a long time has now been transformed into a beauticians and teeth whitening centre. It is called Lasting impressions and is located in Church street near the Crown hotel. As with all new enterprises they are wished good luck in offering services new to the town.

The Communities First Trust fund is available to help community groups operating in or for the benefit of Barmouth people. Properly constituted groups can access money for a variety of things that will help them survive and thrive. If you would like to know more please contact Martin or Denise in the Communities First office in Station Road.

Businesses are increasingly being encouraged to file tax and VAT returns on line. Many are wary of working in this way and have so far resisted. Barmouth Communities First would like to hear from anyone in business who would like a session or short course with a tutor to improve their I.T. skills and confidence. If there is sufficient interest sessions could be run in Barmouth. If this interests you or you have other business training needs please contact Martin or Denise on 01341 280979 or call in to the office in Station Road..

The next season of fitness sessions in the Dragon Theatre begin on September 15^th they run for an hour starting at 10-45am on Wednesdays. Funds raised by the group are donated to the Breast Cancer unit at Llandudno hospital

Literary lunch

The Wayside Restaurant was this years venue for the Literary Lunch on Sunday last, a part of the Barmouth Arts Festival. The guest speaker John Sam Jones spoke eloquently about the issues in his life that shaped him as a person and led him into a writing career that he had never envisaged. His audience heard about some of his books in which he attempts to show life from a perspective that differs from that of the majority but is a reality for a substantial minority. He is a keen observer of relationships and on the theological and cultural influences that shape peoples reactions to those around them. The staff at the Wayside were very welcoming and accommodating which added to everyones enjoyment of a very pleasant event.

The Barmouth U3A Monthly Gatherings will be starting again at 2.00pm on Wednesday 8^th September, in Parlwr Mawr at the Dragon Theatre, with an interesting presentation to start off the winter season. The meeting will start with the usual sales stall, together with a cup of tea & time to socialise. And as usual, new members, and those interested in seeing what the U3A gets up to are very welcome. The Cambrian Railways offer some of the most scenic rail journeys anywhere in the U.K. The Cambrian Main Line, between Aberystwyth and Shrewsbury, travels through the rolling hills of Montgomeryshire to the glorious sandy beaches of Cardigan Bay, while the Cambrian Coast Line, between Machynlleth and Pwllheli, offers passengers unrivalled views of the coast and peaks of Snowdonia. Gerwyn Jones, from the Cambrian Railways Partnership, will give a presentation on ‘The Cambrian Railways. The Train Attraction’, discussing how these railways are promoted. This promises to be an interesting afternoon both for train buffs and general members alike.

National Healthy living Week

The annual event will, this year, be run from the 19^th till 25^th September. Coincidentally the Barmouth festival of Walking runs from the 18^th to the 27^th and the Hysbys Older peoples information bus will be visiting Barmouth with information on staying fit, well and safe during the same period.

Heroic collection

The musical evening at the Last Inn that was organised to raise funds for the Help for Heroes appeal, working on a 1940’s theme the evening was a great deal of fun for all and raised £302-76 Thanks to Barry and the musicians for their efforts to create an authentic atmosphere

What course

Do you look at the papers and think that the colleges never offer the course you would like to do? Coleg Meirion Dwyfor also now known as Llandrillo College have come up with a novel idea. They are asking people to ring in on 01341 422827 and tell them the courses they would like to see running. If sufficient interest in a topic is shown the college will try to respond.

Radio Barmouth

This cause has long been supported in Barmouth, this year with a Charity Day that will be held in the centre of town on the forecourt of the home of Gwynfor Owen, Fron y Graig, High Street,next to the offices of Breese Gwyndaf Solicitors. It will be held on Saturday 28^th August from 11am till 2pm. There will be a wide variety of stalls including the ever-popular bric a brac and cake stalls along with a prize raffle. All money raised goes to the charity so you can be assured that your kind donations will be fully utilised.

Part of the window of the Communities First office is being made available to local workers and employers to act as a kind of job exchange. If you are looking for staff you can display the details and if you are looking for work you can advertise your skills. It is that simple and with no cost involved. Just call in to the office in station Road and give some details.

New in town

Arts Festival

The Barmouth Arts festival will soon be here, starting on September 4^th with “A family affair” a highly talented family trio that is a substantial draw by itself is joined by the immense talent of Rhys Meirion for what is sure to be a spectacular performance. There may be no Vaynol Festival this year but Barmouth has attracted an excellent range of performers to the 36^th Barmouth Arts Festival. Yellow leaflets and posters to be found around town provide an overview of the programme. Further details are also available from the website www.barmouthartsfestival.co.uk One change to the programme is that the speaker at the literary lunch will now be John Sam Jones a local writer who recently worked closely with Marc Rees on the development of the “For mountain Sea and Sand” scripts. Details at the bottom of the leaflet and posters tell you how to book tickets. Many of the programmed items are expected to be very popular so early booking is strongly recommended.

Another Barmouth

When the Quakers went off to Pennsylvania they had a big impact on the area. Over the years the Welsh were industrious and influential, so it was that in the 1880’s that the stations along the new Pennsylvania railroad were named after places in Wales known to those original settlers. Barmouth station existed and is at the side now of a walkway somewhat similar to the Mawddach trail. Emails have been exchanged with the conservation group from Lower Meirion Township and they can be seen, giving interesting historic detail on the barmouth-communities-first.org web site, click on History and then the top article “Another Barmouth” Perhaps there is the potential to twin with an area with which there is so much in common. The site is also clearly shown on Google earth.

Nightingale House Hospice invites walkers to join the Dolgellau to Barmouth ‘Summer Stroll’. This is a unique opportunity to raise money for the local Hospice, and experience the beautiful Mawddach trail, from Dolgellau to Barmouth. The walk is around 9.5 miles long, and starts at 11am on Saturday 11^th September at Barmouth harbour. On their return all walkers will be receive a fish and chips lunch. This is an ideal family day out and the walk is dog, children and pram friendly. Registration is £10 per person, £5 per child (aged 2-10), and infants (younger than 2) go free. You can also register as a family (2 adults and 2 children) for a group fee of £25. Those who register, and wish to stay overnight in the town will also be eligible for discounts on local B&B’s and hotels, details of which will be sent with registration packs. The event sponsor is Emma’s Coaches Cymru. Nightingale House Hospice provides specialist palliative care services, completely free-of-charge, to patients and their families across a wide area stretching from Wrexham, Flintshire, East Denbighshire to Barmouth and the border towns including Oswestry and Whitchurch. This year alone, it will cost £2.4 million to run the Hospice, this equates to just under £7,000 per day. Only 20% of this comes from statutory government sources. The Hospice greatly relies on the generosity of the communities it serves. To find out more about how to help visit www.nightingalehouse.co.uk or call Income Generation on 01978 314292.

Barmouth Bowling Club

The bowling club fun day was held Saturday 14th Aug. The sun shone and we had a brilliant day. The committee men had worked really hard during the morning setting up the games on the green .There was lots of fun and laughter. After the games ended we retired to the club house where Bill Gaskell presented the prizes of bottles of wine. There was eight winners some winning two bottles for winning their heat. The overall winner was Margaret Williams. Bill announced that he had a bottle of Champers to be won so everyone went back outside to try for it. The winner being Sheila Davies.

Credit Union Change

The Y Llechen Credit Union that operates on Thursday morning in the Communities First office has made some changes to its loan process to make it easier for people to access loans. There are many reasons why people choose not to use conventional banks for loans, Y Llechen loans are based on ability to repay rather than on other criteria. Information packs and loan repayment information is available from the office in Station Road any time. The volunteers who run the branch are available on Thursdays from 11am till 1pm to guide people through the process. Until recently there was an eight-week qualifying period before members could access loans, that has now been removed and a credit scoring system helps borrowers assess how much they can afford to repay. This is an alternative to doorstep lenders that could save large amounts of money on repayments.

Craigs collection grows

Craig Dobbins has added another recycling scheme to his charity collecting. He now accepts used computer ink cartridges, these go to raise money for the MacMillan Cancer Research Charity, he is still collecting plastic bottle tops for Hospice at home and stamps for the purchase of wheelchairs and also ring pulls that benefit a leukaemia research charity. All items can be left at the Communities First office in Station Road.

RNLI Flag Day result

A collection was held on August 5^th at which a total of £1650-56 was donated. In Barmouth and District £593-13 was collected, a further £163-01 came from Fairbourne and £894-42 from Shell Island. William Burton the promoter would like to thank everyone involved for their hard work in raising this commendable sum.

Radio Barmouth

If you would like to have your say on the creation of an on line radio station for Barmouth you are invited to go along to a discussion at the Communities First office at 3-45 on Monday 23^rd August. Some well known local characters will be there along with Devinda and Mathilde who many will have met during the National Theatre production that ran in Barmouth last month. Everyone is welcome—whether you are a backroom assistant or a budding reporter or performer. The aim will be to develop downloadable podcasts in the early stages and grow from this base over time.

Help for Heroes

There will be a great evening of live music at the Last Inn on Tuesday 24^th August to raise funds for the “Heroes”. The evening will begin around 8-30pm with music from the 40’s onwards, if you really want to help the atmosphere you are invited to dress in the period style.

Mari O’Rourke, the President welcomed members to the July meeting, which opened with the singing of Meirion accompanied by Blodwen Comerford. Good wishes were sent to Mrs Goodchild who was 99 that week. Apologies were received from indisposed and holidaying members. Mari introduced Llinos from Dolgellau who spoke about a new befriending project that is running in South Gwynedd where volunteers are trained to offer support by listening and being a good companion. The training enables people to offer information about health and social care services that will be of interest to people who may be living alone. Those interested in joining the scheme can contact Llinos on 01341 422575. After this the minutes of the previous meeting were read, confirmed and signed. Janice thanked members who had helped at the bottle stall. Thanks were received from Marc Rees for the help members had given at his “For mountain sea and sand “ production. The summer outing was a great success on June 29^th when members went for a trip on the Llangollen canal over the Froncysyllte aqueduct. On the way the group called in at the “Glass Blobbery”at Glanrafon where they were entertained with an amusing demonstration. Mari and Rose were thanked by Ann Williams for making the arrangements. Raffles were won by Ruth Lloyd, Venta Bath, Jack Payton and Maria Campbell. Doreen read the newsletters which included congratulations to Greta Cartwright on her award of an M.B.E. and good wishes to Meinir for a speedy recovery. Mari introduced the President and Secretary of the Llanelltyd W.I. who were delegates at the recent Cardiff conference. The guest speakers there were John Burco, Gwen Parry –Jones, Jim Smith and Leigh Durell, widow of Gerald Durell. The resolution this year was directed at reducing the excess packaging on goods. The Merioneth County Show will be held at Ty Cerrig fiedls, Ynys, on August 25^th. The admission charge for non competitors will be £8. The Craft Exhibition will be held at the Dragon Theatre on September 9^th. Help is needed to serve coffee. The July meeting continued with a quiz prepared by Mari. Members had to identify photos that had been taken from unusual angles of well known buildings and local features along the High Street. Along with this was a delicious Cheese and Wine buffet prepared by the committee. The next meeting will be held on September 22^nd.

The next visit by the Citizens Advice Bureau advisor will be on 13^th&27^th September and 11^th & 25^th October . In the meantime the highly sophisticated C.A.B. computer point is available every weekday from 9-30 till 4-30 in the old payments office in Station Road, opposite LL Building Supply store. This unit can access the whole CAB information data base and is extremely easy to use, help is at hand if needed.

Blood Brothers

Paradisi theatre company from Criccieth have triumphed yet again with their latest production. The larger than usual cat is drawn from Paradisis home area and from Barmouth. All work well together and deliver a gripping and authentic drama that makes you forget that this is not a professional company. Singling performances out for praise is unfair as all contribute to the telling of a wholly believable tale that rings with social comment and observation. Dating from 1983 the issues and characters are recognisable on the streets today, so it is well worth seeing for all sorts of reasons. Performances are every Monday in August at the Dragon Theatre. Booking in advance is advisable, the box office can be contacted by calling 01341 281697 and is also open in the foyer each morning from 11am till 1pm.

Fawlty Towers

The summer run of the Bermo Arts comedy got off to an exceptional start on Wednesday with the “House full” signs going up well before the start of the show. The tradition of transferring T.V. shows to the Barmouth stage has proved to be a consistent draw for visitors and residents alike. The episode chosen will be remembered by fans of the series as it featured the late Joan Sanderson as the deaf woman with the ear trumpet and has the usual mayhem that results from misunderstandings and misinterpretations of messages. As always it is a show not to be missed with a cast dedicated to make you laugh. Tickets can be ordered from the box office as above.

The Netta Irvine Cup

The turnout for the event wasn’t as good as in former years due to the poor weather and to illness. The rain stayed away and it was cool, despite this there was plenty of laughter & fun. Many games had been played in the morning ,there was then a break for lunch. After lunch there was one more game to play for the decider of the semi finals. Pam Payton played Joyce Jones and Lorraine Viney played Pauline Roberts. Pam & Pauline won their games and so went on to play in the finals. There was a short break so they could get their breath back before resuming the game. It was a well contested game with Pam being the winner. Nettas Daughter Lynn presented the trophy and medals doing so after a tearful speech. Lots of photos were taken before all went into the clubhouse where a beautiful spread was awaiting, prepared by the WI ladies. Thank you to everyone who donated lovely raffle prizes they were much appreciated. Next Saturday 14th there will be fun day and anyone is very welcome to join in.

The Barmouth and Dyffryn United Football Club (the Club) will start its 2010-2011 Football Season with a Senior First Team home match against Llanrwst United at Wern Mynach on Saturday, 14th August, kick-off 2.30pm. The Senior Reserve Team will also be celebrating its promotion to the Caernarfon League First Division with an away match against Llanrug Reserves. Barmouth Club supporters will be welcome at both matches. These matches will be followed, that day, by the Junior Teams' Trophy Presentation Evening at the Buffs Club, Barmouth, starting at 6.30pm, when individual young players will be rewarded for their outstanding performances during 2009-2010. At the above events the second edition of the Club's Newsletter will be distributed. As well as a coverage of all Club activities, this Newsletter refers in particular to the Club's ambitious plans for the development of improved playing facilities for Junior Teams. To finance these developments the Club has introduced a new Club Membership Scheme offering Annual Membership for £10 per person per annum, or Lifetime Membership for £100 per person. "Club Members" will in future benefit from discounts on match entrance fees, on purchases of Club merchandise, and preferential terms for Club functions. Further information will be available at the home match versus Llanrwst United, and at the Juniors Trophy Evening. Alternatively, if you are unable to attend these events but would like further information, please do not hesitate to contact Wil Huntley, Chairman, mobile 079127 48875, or Brian Wood, Secretary, tel no 01341 280103.

There are two very different but highly entertaining plays on every week at the Dragon Theatre in Barmouth, Blood Brothers on Monday nights and Fawlty Towers on Wednesday nights, throughout the month. From Monday 2^nd August the foyer box office will be open from 11am – 1pm every weekday. Alternatively, seats can be reserved by phone at any time on 01341 281 697 – leave a message if necessary and they will call back to confirm your booking.

Job shop

If you have a vacancy that is either seasonal or permanent and want to find someone local to till the vacancy you can advertise for free on the community jobs board in Communities First office window. Similarly if you have skills that you want to sell or are looking for a particular type of job you can also advertise in the same way. Just call in to the office , give the details and a notice will be created in a uniform style that is easy to read. This facility may also be extended to the web site if it proves popular. It is a new idea that is being tried to help local people find jobs with local employers.

Better and Better

If you have not visited Barmouth station in the last week you need to go and see what is happening. Every week there seems to be yet another improvement. In addition to the planters and hanging baskets, extra large area photos had been added along with a painting by a local artist. All this has now been joined by local information boards that tell visitors and residents about the regular events of the town along with information about the local history. Local businesses and individuals are putting in time and money to make Barmouth a really attractive place everyone can help by keeping an eye on the developments, picking up litter and pulling out weeds. It is a proven fact that vandalism thrives in neglected areas and disappears in well kept ones.

The Commitments

If you used to dress in flares or a mini skirt to go out on a Saturday night then the live Soul and Motown show on Saturday 21^st August, with 8-piece band The Conmitments is for you. If not, this show is a trip into another world of music that will show you what your parents used to dance to. It also features Tony Scarth as Tom Jones. It promises to be a lively and atmospheric night! The dragon theatre is the venue and tickets can be bought in advance at the box office or ordered by phone on 01341 280979.

Moving on

Tracy and Yvonne have worked side by side in Sophisticuts and built up a loyal following over the years. Yvonne has now decided to branch out and is renting a chair in the In Style salon on the High street where she is hoping to develop some services that will be new to Barmouth. She is wished every success in her new venture.

Friends met at Hafan Deg on Friday last for a Coffee Morning at which hey raised £60 for MacMillan Cancer Support. Everyone is thanked for their generous donations to this valuable support charity and for supporting the event.

Freshfields

The volunteers at the Freshfields animal sanctuary shop are appealing for items of good clothing to sell in the shop, they are desperately short of stock at the moment and ask you to think of them when clearing your wardrobe. They are also appealing for additional volunteers to help man the shop. They have also sent out an appeal for a mobile phone, if you have one that works they would be most grateful. Their efforts go to support the animal rescue centre to aid abandoned animals.

Members of the Barmouth U3A had a monthly gathering with a difference when they met on 14^th July. The theme for the afternoon was "Thanks for the Memory" focusing on the 50s and members were asked to bring with them a small memento that might evoke memories of that decade. The afternoon began with the group singing the Bill Haley and the Comets' hit "Rock around the Clock", (without the jiving in the aisles this time). We were treated to stories about engagement rings and wedding dresses, congoleum and coronations and some not so happy memories of 11 plus examinations. There were recollections of young married life in Liverpool and photographic memories of early nursing years. We even had a slide rule demonstration. It was fascinating to be reminded of transport in the 50s when Crosville buses carried us locally and one member read out a touching letter written to her pen friend in 1953. Scrapbooks took us back to a 'golden age' when children had more freedom yet felt more secure, an innocent time when climbing trees and playing cards were the pastimes. When radio programmes included Two Way Family Favourites with Jean Metcalf for Forces in BFPO 15 and weekends were spent dancing in the Tudor Café with the Junior Leaders from Tonfanau. The whole afternoon was thoroughly enjoyable - as were the delicious scones, served with strawberries and cream.

Emergency Services personnel, who are responsible for organising the Barmouth community bonfire & fireworks event, held an Open Day at Barmouth Fire Station last Saturday. The event was well attended and as well as various emergency vehicles being on show a cake stall and raffle helped to raise £399 towards the November community event and Fire & Rescue Benevolent Fund . Emergency staff involved would like to express their thanks to Mark Thomas and staff at Barmouth Co-operative store for the generous help and support shown to them. A main raffle prize generously donated by Barmouth Co-op was won by Ricky Morris, Barmouth Fire & Rescue Service.

Merioneth Yacht Club

Lit & Deb

Blanket

Speaker

Beavers

Royal British Legion

Indoor Car boot sale

Chinese New Year

Jazz nights

Bermo Arts Follies

R.A.O.B. Kids Party

Hughs views

Car boot stop

Communities First

Lit and Deb

Merioneth Yacht Club ( Photo accompanies)(Barmouth Lifeboat Crew for the Children’s Christmas Party)

RNLI THANK-YOU MORNING

George Smith memorial

Lit & Deb

Bonfire

Spectacular

Royal British Legion

End the weekend

Advertising scam

Age Concern

Fourth Friday Jazz

Village Social

Community Bonfire night

Lit & Deb

Sunny Rhyl

Barmouth Gardening Club

Publicity Coffee morning

National Theatre of Wales

Community Bonfire

Barneys

Llais Ardudwy

Barmouth News 9/10/11

Barmouth Lit & Deb

Free Bags

Barneys

School fund raiser

Llais Ardudwy

Reminder

Prize winning film event

Same Time Next Year

Hughs Views

Amendment

Jazz workshop

Al ac Ant

Prize winning film event

C.A.P.Money course

Huntingdon’s Disease Charity

How to

Barmouth Lit & Deb Society

New Boxing Club

Money and energy

Parish of Llanaber with Barmouth

Good wishes

RNLI results

Huntingdons disease

London Triathlon

Of course you can

Why Not Drop In

Dance Workshops

Motown in town

Radio

Barmouth News 1st August

My brilliant divorce

Wanted one body

National Play Day

Family Day

My brilliant divorce

Wanted one body

Yellow leaflets

St Mary’s Coffee

Ron Barnard Trophy ( Photo Margaret Williams receiving the Ron Barnard Trophy)

Dog training

Money Advice Service

Free money advice

BRA

Barmouth News 1^st August