Press Releases - Various Sources

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• LATEST NEWS ... 

• 09/12/05 - TV prog -"The Quiz of the Year" (filming soon at the Pop Factory Porth)

• 07/12/05 - Pop Factory Music Awards 2005

• 08/11/05 - Pop Factory launch their Awards

• 06/10/05 - Community Project for Young People

• 06/10/05 - Cold winter ahead - Fire Service issue fire safety

• 05/10/05 - Ton & Gelli Boys and Girls Club Thanks - photo

• 27/09/05 - Greetings from the Mini Zebras!

• 27/09/05 - ISITFAIR CAMPAIGN UNSURPRISED BY GOVERNMENT U-TURN ON REVALUATION

• 22/09/05 - South Wales Fire and Rescue Service launch Safety Campaign for Students

• 21/09/05 - Barclays bank matches fundraising total

TV programme "The Quiz of the Year" - (filming at the Pop Factory, Porth on 19th Dec - some audience places available) - 09/12/05   back   return to top of page

Following the success of BBC Wales''The Grand Slam Quiz', Jonathan Davies -  ex-international rugby legend, commentator and host of his own chat show 'Jonathan'; and Amanda Protheroe Thomas - premier sports presenter and host of the property show 'Hot Houses', will be hosting 'The Quiz Of The Year'. This will be an exciting, jam-packed, informative and occasionally hilarious event.

The format will be loosely based on BBC's 'Test the Nation', with some elements of 'Have I got News for You' thrown in! There will be rounds on many different topics - news, politics, sport and entertainment, as well as lighter rounds such as 'what happens next...' and 'Embarrassing Moments' etc. 

There will be four studio teams - politicians, sportspeople, entertainers and newsreaders/weatherpeople, competing as teams against each other. The audience won't be getting off lightly though - they will be dissected into four teams, North, South, East and West, (or possibly North, West, Valleys & City Slickers) all playing along with keypads.

Possible guests:

Politicians: Lembit Opik, Rhodri Morgan, Jill Evans, David Davies

Newsreaders/Weatherpeople: Sian Lloyd, Derek Brockway, Sarah Edwards, Jason Mohammed

Sportspeople: Scott Gibbs, Robert Croft, Lee Trundle, Tanny Grey-Thompson

Entertainers: GLC, Katherine Jenkins, Max Boyce, Rob Brydon

The quiz is being filmed at the Pop Factory in Porth, Rhondda on December 19th from 6.30pm until about 9.30pm, and will be transmitted at prime-time on Boxing night.

To book your place in the audience, contact Catrin on 01443 688527, or e-mail c.brooks@thepopfactory.com.

Remember, there are only a limited number of spaces available!!

There is also a comedy night at The Pop afctory on Decemebr 16 and live rock shows on December 23/30.
Tel 01443 688500

* * * * *

Presenters and contributors included Goldie Lookin Chain, Dirty Sanchez, Feeder (Taka presented an emotional speech in the absence of Grant who unfortunately became ill during the Feeder show in Brighton), Welsh International Rugby star Dwayne Peel and Liberty X in a fast paced show that showcased the performers, the events and the industry figures that made 2005 a truly great year for Welsh music.  Same time next year?

* * * * *
Full winners were:

Best Pop Act - Liberty X
Best Live Act - Stereophonics
Best Welsh Band - Lost Prophets
Best New Act - The Automatic
Best Welsh Language Act - The Poppies
Best Album - Feeder (Pushing the Senses)
Best Welsh Export - Jem
Best Live Event - Wakestock
Community Music Award - SONIG
Best Performance on the Guest List - Bullet for my Valentine
Outstanding Contribution to Music - Tom Jones
Contribution to the Music Industry - Dai Davies
Rock 'n' Roll Excess Award - Goldie Lookin Chain.

* * * * *

The impressive array of talent which has appeared in the recent Pop Factory produced, HTV series, 'The Guest List' pays testament to the standing of a venue which specialises in a variety of areas of entertainment. 

The profile of The Pop Factory will be the talk of the Welsh music scene, via its 4th annual awards ceremony, set for Saturday, December 3. In advance of that prestigious event, a launch party was held at The Hard Rock Café, in Cardiff. 

There were an abundance of record industry glitterati in attendance, and the scene was set for what promises to be a memorable night next month. The afternoon brought together a cross section of well known faces from label executives through to some of the acts that have made the principality such a hotbed for diverse and dynamic music.

'The Guest List' presenters Mel Daley and Colin Francis introduced the audience to a range of categories that will be decided by the voting public, and certain specific honours which stand outside of nomination. 

Meanwhile, the lads of Goldie Lookin' Chain (who have made The Pop Factory their second home) provided jocularity as they mingled with the masses. 

However, the piece de resistance was the appearance of the Welsh tip for the top for 2006, The Automatic. This fiery foursome demonstrated scorching sonic skills via a blistering four song set, and their single 'Recovery' is out now on B-Unique (the home of The Kaiser Chiefs and The Ordinary Boys). 

A taste of another wonder of Wales-The Automatic are set to soon join the elite, and head for the premier league of principality pop along with Feeder, The Super Furry Animals, The Stereophonics, Bullet For My Valentine, Lost Prophets, Funeral For A Friend, and of course, GLC.

These acts, along with the pop princesses, Jem and Charlotte Church, the new order of The Poppies, The Heights, Ashokan and Sybridion, plus a host of others are in competition for an array of awards to be announced on December 3. There are also other honours to be bestowed on what will be an action packed evening! 

The fan is now called upon to make an input and decide who should collect the prizes, and to register your votes head for www.thepopfactorymusicawards.com 

To add to which there is the chance for two lucky people to be in attendance for the coveted after show party! 

To be in the running for this unique opportunity to mix with the stars, you need to vote for your favourite Welsh band from a quartet that consists of: Goldie Lookin' Chain, Funeral For A Friend, Lost Prophets and The Stereophonics. 

Please text 'tpf' followed by a space, and then your nomination and name to 60300.e.g. 'tpf prophets joebloggs'. Texts have to be submitted before 12 noon on Wednesday, November 30, and each message sent will cost 25p (plus your standard network charge). You will receive a reply confirming that your entry has been received, and all the best!!!

In the meantime, look out for 'The Guest List' at the Pop Factory awards launch on HTV on Monday, November 21, and an hour long awards special will be broadcast on the same channel on Tuesday, December 6 (check your television schedules for programme times closer to these events). 

Please also remember to keep your eyes peeled for an abundance of forthcoming events at the Porth base via www.thepopfactory.com Other details are also available via 01443 688500 or email: admin@thepopofactory.com. 

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Community Project - 06/10/05   back   return to top of page

Nine young people from the Princes Trust training programme are undertaking redecoration work at the Family Centre in Llanedeyrn this week. 

The group of 16 and 17 years old are in their fifth week of a twelve-week course and are decorating two large rooms in the drop-in centre as part of the course's Community Project Week.  They have been painting the rooms and are using acetate templates and an overhead projector to draw images on the walls.

 The group raised  £318 by bag packing in a local supermarket to finance the one-week project and used the money to pay for the paint, paintbrushes and templates.

Team Leader, Kay Galvin said:
"It is great to see so many young people participating in this programme to develop their own personal skills.   Achieving their targets and making a positive contribution to their local communities is extremely rewarding for the group." 

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service has been working in partnership with South Wales Police to run the Prince's Trust programme for three years, offering young people aged 16-25, the opportunity to take part in a challenging 12-week personal development and training programme.

Each year, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service has run three courses, each for a team of 12-15 people from a variety of backgrounds and abilities, with current team leader Kay Galvin, who has been seconded from her job in Community Safety.

The aim of the twelve-week programme is to help team members develop their personal skills and overall employability through outdoor pursuits, community projects and gaining nationally recognised qualifications.

During the programme, team members choose the skills that they want to work on and improve, such as communication, confidence, motivation, working with other, problem solving and leadership, which are vital qualities in today's workplace.

According to Prince's Trust statistics, approximately seventy one per cent of the young people who complete the programme go onto further training or into full-time employment.  Sixty six per cent of ex-offenders who have completed the course have not re-offended in twelve months.

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Cold winter ahead – Fire Service issue fire safety - 06/10/05   back   return to top of page 

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to make some simple checks around their homes, to ensure that they stay safe from fire throughout the cold winter months. 

Fire related deaths and injuries usually increase during the winter months as more people make use of heaters, coal fires, electric blankets and cooking appliances. 

The Met Office has predicted a colder than average winter, with expected temperatures below normal and this could cause a greater increase in the use of various heating appliances. 

Between November 1^st 2004 and March 31^st 2005, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service attended 484 fires in the homes, which resulted in five deaths during the same period. 

SDO Simon Morgan, Head of Community Fire Safety, said:  

‘The winter period is often the time when the more elderly and vulnerable members of the community fall victim to accidental house fires. 

“As well as checking their own homes at this time, we would urge everyone to take the time to check on their elderly and vulnerable family, friends and neighbours to make sure they are safe from fire.” 

To stay safe, the Fire and Rescue Service urges householders to  

•       Ensure a fireguard is placed over heaters and open fires, and that children are kept well away from them.

•       Make sure electric blankets are serviced regularly by a qualified electrician

•       Never put clothes on or near a heater to dry as material and fabric can catch light very easily.

•       Never leave a cooker unattended and switch off all appliances when not in use.  Make sure children are not left unsupervised in the kitchen.

•       Smoke alarms save lives.  Check the battery once a week and replace battery every year.   

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service carries out free home fire safety checks and fits smoke alarms for older and vulnerable people.  If you need any help or advice on staying safe from fire this winter, book a home safety check and local crews will arrange a visit to your home.  Call South Wales Fire and Rescue Service on Telephone 0800 3281830 for a home fire safety check and a free smoke alarm.

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Ton and Gelli Boys’ and Girls’ Club Thanks - 05/10/05   back   return to top of page

Many thanks to the estate of the late Mr Louis Hopson, a former member of the Ton and Gelli Boys’ and Girls’ Club, for the kind donation of £100 to the club. 

The bequest was delivered in person by Mrs Hopson and was gratefully received by all at the club. 

Well done to the Ton and Gelli Boys’ and Girls’ Club under elevens football team for winning the annual Treherbert Tournament recently. 

They all played brilliantly! 

And a big thank you to coach John for his commitment to the team over the past four years and best wishes to him for the future. 

The Ton and Gelli Boys’ and Girls’ Club participates in the Tesco vouchers for sports equipment scheme and would be pleased to receive any spare vouchers you may have. Also, if you do have spare time to offer, volunteers are still badly needed. 

To learn more please contact Dean either at the club on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday evenings or by phone at the Phoenix Centre (01443 425894) during the daytime. The club is located at the end of Dinam Park Avenue.

* * * * *

Editors Notes:

Rhondda Community Business Initiatives is company limited by guarantee open to all members of the community. It manages a community cinema/theatre, and has successfully managed several sizeable capital projects. It has also successfully managed several community enterprise training projects, and has worked in partnership with the local authority and local further education college. 

Contact: Dean Jones

Rhondda Community Business Initiatives
The Phoenix Centre
Church Rd, Ton Pentre
RCT CF41 7EH

Tel : 01443 425894
Fax : 01443 439665

* * * * *

• Under 8's Rhiwbina A
• Under 9's Pontypridd
• Under 10's St Albans
• Under 11's  Rhiwbina
• Under 12's Treorchy

The days rugby was of an exceptionally high standard and the trophies and participant medals were presented by Tristan Davies and Kort Schubert of the Cardiff Blues.

At Treorchy Min & Junior rugby we are always looking for new talent and if any child would like to play rugby we would welcome them to come and try with us training is on Wednesday nights for Under 11's  /  14's / 15's and the two Girls sides @ Under 14 & under 17 at  5p.m for 11's and 6.00p.m for 14/s 6.30 Girls Thursday night under 8's 6.00p.m  Under 9's 5.45 under 10 & under 11's at 7.00p.m further details from the club or Geraint Roberts 07785 387911

We are always looking for help or sponsorship if interested contact Geraint Roberts. 

Come and join the mini Zebras !!

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* * * * *

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service launch Safety Campaign for Students - 22/09/05    back   return to top of page

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service have launched a safety campaign to raise awareness of fire safety amongst the student community.  

Firefighters will be visiting Universities in South Wales to hand out information leaflets and speak with students about issues such as smoke alarms, electrical safety and chip pan fires.  Fire Safety flyers will also be posted to student houses and flats in the Cardiff area. 

The information delivered will be one of the most important messages given to these young people as they start a new life away from home and move forwards into the realms of life’s responsibilities. 

Many students starting University will be living in new or unfamiliar surroundings with other young students.  As most of them are leaving the family home for the first time they probably have never had to think of taking fire safety precautions.  This makes the students, one of the most vulnerable groups, more at risk from fire. 

Chief Fire Officer, Brian Fraser says that halls of residence must comply with statutory fire regulations statutory fire regulations; students who live in private rental accommodation are reliant on their landlords, and themselves, to ensure that the property does not pose a major fire hazard. 

“In homes where more than one person lives, such as in student houses, the Environmental Health Office at the local authority can enforce landlords to provide adequate fire precautions. South Wales Fire and Rescue Service supports the local authority by providing advice and attending inspections.” he said. 

“However, at this event we want to reinforce the vital importance of smoke alarms, which provide a lifesaving early warning if a fire does occur. Sadly, the death rate is two times higher in domestic fires where there is no working smoke alarm than in homes fitted with a working smoke alarm.”  

The fire fighters will talk to the students on the dangers of cooking food after they have been drinking alcohol and feeling tired. They will also give advice on electrical safety, such as not overloading plugs and taking care with electric heaters.   

* * * * *

Notes to Editor:

More that a quarter of deaths and one third of injuries occur in houses or flats in multiple occupation, the type of accommodation most students live in:

We need to get this message across: 

You are invited to send a reporter/film crew/photographer to our safety campaigns, where there will be photograph, filming and interview opportunities. To arrange, please contact Helen Lloyd on 01443 232164

The six most common causes of fire in houses or flats of multiple occupation are:

• ·         Accidents during cooking

• ·         Lack of care when smoking

• ·         Defective electrical appliances

• ·         Careless disposal of matches

• ·         Careless use of heaters

• ·         Many accidents are also contributed to by the consumption of alcohol

FIRE SAFETY MESSAGE

Smoke Alarms

Should be fitted in the common areas and preferably in the living areas. I they are not fitted your local Environmental Health Officer should be consulted.

Fire Blankets

Should be mounted on the wall in the kitchen ready to use

Extinguishers

It is good practice for extinguishers to be provided in the common areas of shares accommodation and are usually requires by the Environmental health Officer who is responsible for enforcing the standards under Section 352 of the \housing Act 1985.

You and Your Landlord

The 1985 Housing Act requires the landlord to make the accommodation fit for a number of occupants.  Part of this is to ensure adequate means of escape.  Subject to the size of the property it can also mean supplying fire extinguishing equipment and fire alarms.  Your local Environmental health Officer has powers to compel the landlord to provide adequate fire precautions.

The landlord is also responsible for ensuring, on a regular basis, that the means of escape are kept clear and fitted with fire exit signs and that other fire precautions are maintained in good order. 

• ·         If landlords are unsure of fire safety precautions, they should contact their local authority’s Environmental Health Department.

• ·         Government guidelines on www.firekills.gov.uk offer the following advice to students worried about fire safety at home: ‘Do it yourself. If you can't get your landlord to make your house safe, do it yourself. It's your life!’

* * * * * 

Barclays bank matches fundraising total - 21/09/05  

In August the Ferndale branch of Barclays organised and held a raffle to raise money for the local recycling company Too Good To Waste.

With prizes donated by both staff of the branch and Barclays, the raffle raised £150 which will be matched £ for £ by Barclays. 

The money raised by the staff will be used by Too Good For Waste to help disadvantaged youngsters to set up in their own homes by buying start up packs for them. 

In addition to this, the company accepts donations of good furniture and re-distributes to local homes in need. 

Barclays is proud to be involved in the community and to support this local cause.

* * * * *

So the Cabinet are meeting to discuss a delay the in the re-banding and revaluation in England.  So they are listening. Our voice has been heard.  They fear a voters back-lash  The crumbs being thrown out to allay the hunger for reform.  The Lyons report according to the Today program is an independent report.  Independent my eye, he has worked within ‘Government guidelines’ and he is also the ex leader of Birmingham City Council.  We picked up on the leaks from this review and we did not like them.   Alfred Ridley’s case last week and Sylvia Hardy the week after next has scared the pants off this Government, they did not think it would happen and certainly did not expect us to receive so much support from the National Press.  The country is up in arms and everywhere you go it is easy to find someone prepared to discuss the vagaries of the Council Tax system. We saw what was happening in Wales and we didn’t like it.  We saw the expected rises next year and we didn’t like them.

This Government are past-masters at spin, remember that.  There are the elections in London in May, they cannot afford to ignore the fact that Council Tax issues will be ahead of the field in any election

Lyons will not report until after the Christmas recess, we will all be filled with the Christmas Spirit (if we can afford it) Discussion will not begin until after their return in January and then will probably set up another review to take them past the  Council Tax bills at the end of March and the elections in May.  Rebanding and revaluation are not programmed until 2007/2008.  If they think we will go away during that time, forget it. Clever stuff just delaying tactics. Forget it.

The Isitfair campaign will continue to fight for the complete reform of this tax.  We will not be fobbed of with the crumbs, we want the loaf. 

How long before this Government faces up to the problem?  They must stop testing the water and take the plunge. COUNCIL TAX HAS TO GO.

* * * * *

Christine Melsom   Founder Isitfair.co.uk   01428 712680

* * * * *

Llwynypia Boys’ and Girls’ Club Open Night - 20/09/05   back   return to top of page    

All are welcome to an open night on Monday October 3rd at the newly refurbished Llwynypia Boys’ and Girls’ Club. 

The event, which starts at 7pm, is a chance for adults and children to see the new facilities and find out about the forthcoming programmes. 

The club is located on Llwynypia Road in Llwynypia, near the Tonypandy Enterprise Centre. 

Club activities start for the autumn season on Wednesday 5^th October at 6pm and boys and girls aged from seven up to older teenagers are welcome to go along and participate in a range of sporting, recreational and social activities.

* * * * *

Notes for Editor: Rhondda Community Business Initiatives is company limited by guarantee open to all members of the community. It manages a community cinema/theatre, and has successfully managed several sizeable capital projects. It has also successfully managed several community enterprise training projects, and has worked in partnership with the local authority and local further education college.

Contact: Jodi Lloyd, Rhondda Community Business Initiatives, The Phoenix Centre, Church Rd., Ton Pentre, RCT. CF41 7EH  www.rcbi.co.uk Tel : 01443 425894 Fax : 01443 439665 robamos@rcbi.co.uk

* * * * *

Fire and Rescue Services join forces in all Wales recruitment drive - 09/09/05   back   return to top of page 

Wales’ three Fire and Rescue Services have teamed up to launch the first ever all Wales recruitment drive, in the search for whole time Firefighters to work the length and breadth of the country.  The project is a move towards the Welsh Assembly Government’s desire for greater collaboration between the three Services in Wales.   

The campaign, which begins on September 12^th, will allow potential Firefighters to use just one single telephone number and complete just one single application form to apply for any or all of Wales’ Fire and Rescue Services.   

Previously, the three Services conducted their campaigns separately, at different times of the year.  Now, however, anyone wishing to become a full time Firefighter need ring just one recruitment hotline to get one combined application form, which they return to one single address.  When completing the application form, they simply indicate which Fire and Rescue Service they’d prefer to join, or can apply to all three. 

Photo: firefighters from North Wales Fire & Service, Mid & West Wales Fire & Rescue Service 

and South Wales Fire & Rescue Service.

South Wales Fire & Rescue Service firefighters are:

Lff Rebecca Hopkins (front row left), from Penarth Fire Station, Ff Des Howell (front row middle), from Malpas Fire Station,  

Ff Mike Kingston (2nd row left, red hair) from Penarth Fire Station, 

SubO Brian Amos (behind Mike), of Cardiff Central Fire Station and 

Ff Sabrina Cohen (young woman standing) from New Inn Fire Station

A joint team made up of recruitment staff from all three Services will sift returned forms, and successful candidates will be passed on to the preferred Service – either one, two or all of them - for the next stage of the recruitment process, which will include physical tests, written tests and interviews.    

“Collaborating on the application and sifting stage of the recruitment process is a brand new step for all three Fire and Rescue Services”, said Brian Fraser, Chief Fire Officer for the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service.     

“The beauty of this for applicants is that they only have to ring one number to get the application form, they only need to complete one form, and if they tick all three organisations, they may be invited to the next recruitment stage at all of them”.   

“There is a Wales-wide consistency in the actual form and the sifting process.  For us, the project is cost effective, there is a consistency in the short listed candidates and we can tap into a bigger pool of potential employees”.   

He continued: 

“In South Wales, we are looking to recruit between 45 and 55 new Firefighters.  We are keen to stress to all potential applicants that we are moving away from the traditional and stereotypical Firefighter image.   Our Firefighters come in all shapes and sizes and from all walks of life.  The Fire and Rescue Service is a truly community based organisation, so it’s important that the employees of the Service should reflect the communities we serve”.

* * * * *

Ystrad Boys and Girls Club is looking for adult helpers.  We are very flexible and therefore appreciate anytime you can offer.  Although we offer a wide range of activities, experience is not necessary as there are many ways you can help out. 

If you are interested please visit the club (41A William Street, Ystrad) on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday between 18.30 and 21.00.  Please ask for Alan, Carol or Alethea. 

We look forward to seeing you soon!

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Ton and Gelli Boys’ and Girls’ Club Opens - 05/09/05    back   return to top of page

The Ton and Gelli Boys’ and Girls’ Club opens for the autumn season on Tuesday 6^th September at 6pm. 

The club, which is located just off the top end of Dinam Park Avenue in Ton Pentre, will be open on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 6pm to 8pm. 

Boys and girls aged from 7 to 15 are welcome to go along and participate in a range of sporting, recreational and social activities. The new club intends to add educational activities including the chance to get involved with the Duke of Edinburgh award. Contributions are £1 a week. 

To broaden the activities on offer the club is very keen to add to their existing volunteers. Instructors for sports such as basketball and table tennis are particularly welcome. If you want to get involved please call in at the club or call 01443 425894 and ask for Dean. 

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‘Painting Skies and Landscapes’ - 02/06/05   back   return to top of page

The month of June 2005 will long be remembered by Welsh Artist – William. E. Wheeler as the time when his first book on watercolour painting was published by A & C Black of London. 

As well as being a professional artist; he is also the president of the ‘Ystradyfodwg Art Society’ in Treorchy, in the Rhondda Valley . 

David Price the chairman of the society believes that Bill, (as he likes to be known) is the first artist in the Rhondda/Pontypridd area to have ever written, and had published, a quality book on watercolour painting.

He is also well known for the articles he writes for the ‘Leisure Painter’ art magazine.  

* * * * *

Teaching / Demonstrations: 

Over the past 25 years Bill has demonstrated the skill of painting in this most elusive of medium, to numerous art societies/groups throughout Wales, and over large areas of England; he also runs residential painting holidays in North and East Wales, Cornwall and Holland 

One Sunday each month he runs a day watercolour workshop at the Norwegian Church, Cardiff Bay.

For further information on Demonstrations, Courses etc. Tel: 01443 401573.  

Work in Exhibitions: 

His work has been included in exhibitions in many venues throughout Great Britain, and he has held a number of one person shows. 

In 2003 he was part of a 2 person show in ‘Pembroke Lodge’, Richmond Park, London when he and Marjory Drummond exhibited approx 40 watercolours there. His work can be also be seen in St David's Hall, Cardiff.

Many of his paintings have been collected and can be found in many areas around the world, e.g. America, New Zealand, Australia, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, Sicily, Canada, and throughout Great Britain.

Commissions: 

In 2003 he was commissioned by the Derwent Pencil Company to produce paintings depicting scenes around Derwent water, using watercolour pencils. These were used on a ‘Nostalgia Box’, designed to celebrate 50 years of producing these pencils.  

In 2005 he was commissioned by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council to produce 6 watercolours depicting scenes throughout the borough.

* * * * *

read more about Bill Wheeler in our "Magazine" section - see under "Monthly Articles"

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Disabled Access Parking Scheme members disappointed with new Labour Council in RCT - 09/11/04   back   return to top of page

The members of DAPS are very disappointed with the new Labour Council, as they are dragging their feet, giving us no idea as to when to where the pilot scheme will be implemented. 

DAPS have been fighting this corner since September 2003, and we were hoping that with the Disability Discrimination Act coming into force as of October 2004, we would have seen the pilot scheme up and running, at least by this date. 

We feel that this issue is not being addressed seriously enough, and being given the priority that our disabled residents both deserve and need.  We have been told at every Disability Forum meeting, that money is not an issue.  The money needed has been set aside. 

Come on R.C.T. action speaks louder than words.

* * *

For further information about this press release by D.A.P.S. please contact Chris on 01443 405324, or Gloria on 01443 650615

or e-mail sandrajarrold@jarrold13.freeserve.co.uk

* * *

DISABILITY PUBLIC MEETING IS HAILED A SUCCESS - 30/01/04   back   return to top of page

DAPS - the recently formed Disabled Access Parking Schemes group - held a very successful meeting at the Welcome Inn in Tonypandy on the 21st of January.   The group is fighting for on street parking facilities for severely disabled residents throughout Rhondda Cynon Taff outside of their own homes.

Chair of  DAPS, Mrs Christine Davies of Trallwn, Pontypridd, was delighted at the high turn out for a meeting which was attended by AMs Leighton Andrews and Leanne Wood, Leader of RCT Council Pauline Jarman, and several County Borough Councillors from Rhondda and Taff Ely.

" We set up this group last October and aim to recruit members from throughout Rhondda Cynon Taff. This is an issue which affects people not only in our area but throughout the Country.  We were very encouraged by the turn out and by the attendance of a number of local politicians from all Parties."  commented Mrs Davies.  "We were also pleased to welcome Councillor John Dixon who is a Liberal Democrat Councillor in Cardiff.  They already have a scheme in place which provides on street parking bays for disabled residents"

At the request of the DAPS committee, the meeting was Chaired by Councillor Karen Roberts of Clydach Vale, who along with her Liberal Democrat colleagues Mike Powell and Katrina Jones put forward a motion last September which called for the introduction of such bays.

"In our view this is a basic human right" said Cllr Roberts.  "These people should not have to fight for access to their own homes.   Other Authorities throughout Britain have policies in place, so why can't we introduce it in RCT?  We have disabled people throughout the County who are virtually prisoners in their own homes because they are afraid to leave in case when they come back they cannot find a place to park"

This is seen as just the start of the campaign.  The group are gaining momentum and have two more meetings planned for February.  The first will be at Talbot Green Community Centre at 7.30 on Wednesday 4th February, followed by a second on 18th February at a venue in the Cynon Valley to be arranged.  Anyone with an interest is welcome to come along.  The group are keen to stress that they are not in any way politically orientated

"We asked Councillor Roberts to Chair the meeting because of her experience and because she obviously has an interest in the subject or she would not have brought the motion to Council in the first place.  Along with Councillor Powell she has been very helpful.  However, we are open to help and advice from anyone and everyone.  This should not be a political issue.  It is about people and we would hope to gain support from all quarters."

Anyone who wants further information about the forthcoming meetings or the campaign in general can contact Chris Davies on 01443 405324 (evenings) or Gloria Price on 01443 650615.

* * * * *

Rhondda AM Leighton Andrews has welcomed the establishment of the group established to advocate solutions for parking problems for disabled people. 

Mr Andrews said "This is an important time, as all the political parties are preparing their manifestoes for the election in June. I urge all those who are concerned about this issue to raise it with local councillors and candidates. I will be taking it up within the Labour Party".

* * * * *

Assembly Members and local Councillors will be amongst those attending a meeting of DAPS - the recently formed Disabled Access Parking Scheme group - on Wednesday 21st January.

The meeting will be held at the Welcome Inn in Tonypandy, beginning at 7.30pm, and is open to anyone who has an interest in the issue from throughout Rhondda Cynon Taf. 

Invitations have been extended to all AMs MPs and County Councillors in RCT, and Assembly Members Leighton Andrews and Leanne Wood, together with Councillor Pauline Jarman have both indicated they will be attending.

The aim of the group is to raise awareness of the difficulties encountered by many disabled residents in accessing their own homes due to a lack of on street parking facilities. They hope that by doing so they will put pressure on the Council to consider the introduction of disabled residents bays.

If anyone would like further information then they can contact Chris on 01443 405324, or Gloria on 01443 650615

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