"Ystradyfodwg Monthly"

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If you would like to contribute - e-mail magazine@treorchy.net or Treherbert-info@treorchy.net

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We are writing to express our thanks to all the local community members who recently showed their support of our cause, by signing our petition regarding the land use at the Fernhill Colliery Site, Blaenrhondda.  

The petition objected to the Council’s proposals to allocate the land at this site for housing and asked that it be retained for Leisure & Tourism related development. The petition was submitted as part of the Local Development Plan (LDP) Public Consultation which ended on 26^th March 2009. 

Unfortunately, due to issues associated with gaining access to some key documentation, our group were left with just the final week of the six week consultation period to raise the relevant objections; circulate and submit the petition.  

It is with tremendous thanks to members of our group and the numerous local community volunteers who gave up their time (at very short notice) to knock on doors in their neighbourhoods; that we managed to collate and submit approx. 32 representations (objections) each backed up by some 732 signatures. 

Despite the recent community losses – the Haigside allotments; the recycling facility at Treorchy; the swimming pools at Treherbert and Maerdy and the news regarding the maintenance of our parks, it is heartening to see that community unity is strong and that community members are not apathetic but are willing to speak up, take action and support those causes that they feel strongly about.   

The next stage in the LDP process involves the Council reporting on and submitting all representations to the Planning Inspectorate for consideration. We urge anyone who wishes to be kept informed of progress on the matter to register on the Council’s LDP database by contacting the LDP team via phone 01443 495193 or e-mail LDP@rhondda-cynon-taff.gov.uk or by writing to Development Planning Team, Development and Regeneration Unit, Rhondda Cynon Taff County Borough Council, Level 5, Unit 3, Pennant House, Catherine Street, Pontypridd CF37 2TB. 

Yours Sincerely,

S Husband (Secretary),

On behalf of Fernhill Rhondda Conservation Group

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PHONING HOME

Pastor Andrew Jenkins of the Gateway Church in Newport, made a phone call home recently to his parents Tom & Rita Jenkins of Ynyswen.

Andrew, who is the Asia representative of Action Overseas (the missionary arm of the Apostolic Church in the UK) was calling from Sri Lanka, where there has been  the awful calamity of  civil war raging between the Government and the ‘Tamil Tigers’ in the north and east of this otherwise captivating island.

During the conversation, Andrew told his parents of the 120 young members of the Apostolic Church there that had been forced against their will to fight for the Tamil Tigers, with any who were reluctant being told that a member of their respective families would be killed if they refused.

Andrew has flown in previous years to ‘Tamil Tiger country’ under military escort and on this occasion was in Sri Lanka to meet some 400 children, at a school that has no funding, to present them with textbooks purchased entirely through the fundraising efforts of the members of the Gateway Church in Newport, who regularly save and donate each 20p coin they have.

Andrew made the presentation at the school on January 17, which coincidentally was also his 51^st birthday.

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I would like to thank all who made contact with me and helped in my search for info and data to compile my family tree. My thanks in particular to the following;

David & Gladys Lewis, Herbert St. - Mary Skinner - Sylvia Chappell - Viv Price & son Ian - Peter Eddy - Betty Thomas and many others.

There has been much interest in my search which covers the Rhondda during my childhood from 1937/55. My days at the Treherbert Baths, The Penreglyn Naval Officers, Treherbert Brass Band and all the friends I made. I have lost touch with some friends, namely Conrad Dawes and Alan Cooper, Bernard(Sambo)Sampson, Athur Jones

I am currently living in North Devon and had the good fortune to meet with Bill Francis, a friend of my late brother, Ron, and who was born and raised in Victoria Street. He has been living near me in North Devon for some years and recalls some of the friends I have mentioned including Sheila & Vera Price and Mavis Evans of Victoria Street, Len Howells, John Francis, John Kingdom, Dorian Heart, Pete Eddy and many others.

I can be contacted on my `e` ben.thomas@fast4.net

Meantime thanks to all my old friends and my wishes to them all for 2009.

Ben Thomas

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My quarterly Glam. F.H.S magazine arrived this morning, and I was saddened by the report in it on the disaster at Ferndale Colliery, as reported by the 'Western Mail' Sat. 12th June 1869.

The details of the inquest of 53 victims, their names, ages and how they had died. How it had affected many houses in the same row, it certainly brings into reality the effects it had. Especially, as much later, my Uncle Ed. worked there for many years.

Mal Jones, Scunthorpe, N. Lincs.

maljones.01@btinternet.com

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Fernhill (Rhondda) Conservation Group 

I represent a number of concerned residents who have set up a group opposing proposals to allow the land at the old Fernhill Colliery Site (Blaenrhondda) to be developed for housing.  We believe the site is a beautiful cultural and historical asset to the valley. Our group wish to see the site developed sympathetically for leisure and tourism purposes.  

We are now seeking support from the wider community; if you agree with our objectives and would like to join us or just wish to voice your support please e-mail Sherylhusband@hotmail.co.uk.  Alternatively we can be contacted through Facebook, via the Fernhill Colliery Site group.  

We are also looking for individuals and groups who are willing to help in any way they are able. Examples could include raising awareness of the plans for the area, recruiting supporters, networking, contacting organisations, distributing petitions, delivering leaflets, providing information/photos on the history of the site, help with website design, poster design, offering advice / guidance / expertise on planning / housing / ecological information etc.  

In addition, we are looking for ways to celebrate the beauty and value of the area, for instance, through photographs, sketches, paintings, stories, poetry, sharing memories/artefacts etc 

We would be most grateful for any help and / or support. Please get in touch via the contact details above or write to: 

Fernhill (Rhondda) Conservation Group

c/o Sheryl Husband,

36 Blaenrhondda Rd,

Blaenrhondda

Treorchy

RCT

CF42 5SP

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James' parents owned and operated a Saddlery and sold horse carriages, etc.

Unfortunately I have no documentation of Dad's parents or siblings but I estimate that Dad's grandparents would have lived in the period 1860 to 1910.

I would like to trace my heritage while in Wales, can anyone help please.

Cheers
Brian Evans   evansba@optusnet.com.au

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I recently "Googled" Treorci and found in the oldies photo section a picture of the Festival of Britain in 1952 in Dyfodwg Street. 

My nanny (Olive Williams  of no 13) and my Auntie Glenys are both in it - on the right hand side (standing and sitting).

Both have sadly now died. Glenys married Dai Durham (who's also passed away) and had two children Dilwyn and Gwenda - Dilwyn is actually in one of the other photographs (kids party) Gwenda is still living in Treorci with family, and I have many other relatives dotted around the place. 

I moved to North Wales with my father (Glenys' brother - Dai Williams) and mother when I was 14yrs old.

We used to live in Ynyswen. I went to Ysgol Gymraeg Ynyswen and then Llanharri for 3 yrs. (27yrs ago!!!! scary)

Just wanted to say great site - think I'll show my dad!

Love to all

Catherine Bailey (Williams)

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Having been a 'commercial traveller' back in the 1960's your photo's have really brought back some good memories.

Two grocers - both characters - who come to mind are Jim Arnold in Bute Street, Treherbert, and Ivor Hart, whose shop was opposite the Rugby Club. 

I would arrange to get to Ivor's at about lunchtime knowing that he would invite me over to the club for a pint. 

That would be my last call of the day before leaving to drive back to Cardiff at about 4.00pm!!!!! Happy Days

Kind regards................

Mike Stokes (ex rep for HP Sauce)

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Previous festivals included several welsh acts...

Stagers theatre School in Cardiff were chosen to represent Wales at the Fantasyland Theatre in the Disneyland Park and the outside stage in the Village - a group of very professional youngsters who lit up the stage from start to finish.

Another group of dancers, The Yvonne Garrard dancers, only had the chance to dance in the village, a group of young children from Treorchy danced to an audience of parents and enjoyed themselves tremendously.

Radyr school band another Welsh talent chosen to appear on the Fantasyland Theatre along with Castell Nedd folk dancers, who both performed so well on the theatre.

There were Welsh craft stalls available and Mickey and Minnie were dressed in Traditional costume.

For details of next years festival contact cymreis@hotmail.co.uk
 
Claire Lewis

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Hi

I'm originally from Tynybedw Terrace (lived next door to Leigh Searle) 

and I've been living in Sweden for almost 9 years.  

I've been threatening to take my wife up Treorchy mountain since we first met.  

We finally did it last weekend on probably the hottest day of the year.  

Here are the pictures of the valley.  

Feel free to use them on you website.

Love the site by the way. 

Steve Jenkins

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I have just read the very amusing poem on welsh cakes.  

My husband and I moved to Pentyrch and decided from the off that we would take part in the goings on in the village.  

Yesterday I entered my welsh cakes in the Pentyrch Horticultural Show and won 1st prize, which included a shield. which I shall keep for a year, and vouchers for M & S.  I was over the moon and shocked to think that I won on my first competition.  

My husband had a 3rd for his entry in the woodwork section ( he carves walking sticks).  My grand-daughter, bless her heart, had a 1st for her collage on recycling and received a medal.

You can now see why I was amused by the poem.  Many thanks.

Y.E. Aherne

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I am a local bus enthusiast living in Bridgend, although I do like to visit the Rhondda valley when I can. I know a lot of people living in the Rhondda valley have complained about some services being cut back.

I know  that since Veolia have taken over service 131 Maerdy - Talbot Green - Cardiff, they have cut it back to only run Talbot Green - Tonypandy.

Stagecoach have now decided that the 124 Cardiff - Creigiau service will be extended from July 30th 2007 and will now operate the following route: 

124 Cardiff - Creigiau - Talbot Green - Tonypandy - Maerdy

Please note that there will be an hourly service between Creigiau and Cardiff with 1 bus every 2 hours running to Maerdy. These have been introduced because people have complained about the loss of a direct bus between Maerdy & the Royal Glamorgan Hospital.

Thanks

Anthony

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Hi, Just reading through your site, thanks for featuring me in February 2005, glad you enjoyed the show.

Since those two years I'm an established Elvis Tribute Artist and its all going well, just had a website done its www.rickyrivers.co.uk

Thanks once again

Ricky

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My name is John Rosser and I was born at 60 Conway Road Cwmparc in 1945 - seems a long time ago now however I'm still 18 years old at heart but the body has gone a "bit to seed"! 

My mother was from Cwmparc - Nancy Jones and my father Harry Rosser ran a small building company with a yard in Treorchy at the side of and back of the Station Café - opposite Parc & Dare.

I left Cwmparc a long time ago and haven't really been back very often although Rhondda Valley and Wales have been in my mind and heart at all times. I've lived and worked in the Middle East for far too many years and often reminisce of times long gone and everyone who I grew up with - where are they now ? What are they doing?

Are any still "wandering like me"? These are only a few of the questions I ask myself.

Its great to find a Treorchy website - and to see that my true home is still flourishing - keep going please - from now I will be a regular viewer.

I went to Pentre Grammar from about 1956 - 1962 ish - I'm a civil engineer still in the Middle East based in Dubai United Arab Emirates and travel extensively throughout the world particularly the U.S. and have met very many welsh people - we really are "a cut above the rest". 

As you all well know "you can take the Welsh out of Wales but you'll never take Wales out of the Welsh".

If anyone remembers me by any chance I would love to start some dialogue.

Best regards

John Rosser

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Hey Hey,

Here is Ricki Marenghi in orange. He plays for the Santa Clarita Tigers! 

Ricki and his sister Athena were born in Ton Pentre  (I am from Treorchy) and we moved here to Valencia California seven years ago. 

Rugby is a fairly new sport in Valencia and the team have only been playing together for two years. They have few senior players and Ricki often has to play under 14's, under 16's, under 18's and today they were playing the LA Cougars which is a varsity team. 

Ricki's dad played for Ponty and his mum also enjoyed the game growing up. It's all fun and games here but very odd when the kids get off the field and change out of their rugby boots into flip flops! 

We are not used to playing rugby in temps upwards of the 80's.

Have a great day...

Joe

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MESSAGES HOME

Tom and Rita Jenkins of Woodland Terrace, Treorchy received two letters and two phone calls recently from Pakistan . 

They were from their eldest son, Pastor Andrew Jenkins who in his capacity as a member of the board of Action Overseas (which is the Missionary Arm of the Apostolic Church within the UK ) was on a whistle-stop tour of the areas affected by the 7.6 magnitude earthquake that struck the land on October 8^th 2005.

Andrew is their representative for Asia and his portfolio of responsibilities involve Pakistan, Southern India and Sri Lanka . 

In previous years he was the representative for Action Overseas in Eastern Europe, Latvia in particular.

Last year, while carrying out speaking engagements with his chairman and director in Southern India, they flew to Colombo and Jaffna, in the South and North of Sri Lanca, and witnessed first hand the awful aftermath of the Tsunami. He returned to Sri Lanka in June 2005 and organised the purchase of fishing boats and a variety of other equipment for fisher families that had lost their livelihoods and loved ones.

Andrew’s wife Joyce, who is also a native of the Rhondda, joined him later in Sri Lanka and was honoured by being invited to present the keys of the fishing boats to the respective families.

In August of 2005, during the course of the International Convention of the Apostolic Church which was held in Swansea University, Andrew handed over a special trophy - which was a token of gratitude of the Sri Lancan people as to the magnificent giving to them by the membership of the Apostolic Church within the UK.

In his first letter to his parents from Islamabad, Andrew was celebrating his 48^th birthday on his own. He was born is East Glamorgan Hospital and the heading of his letter simply said ‘It has taken 48 years to get from East Glamorgan to East Pakistan.’

The second letter was from the North West Frontier and Himalayan country, in which he writes of travelling along the Kashmir Highway (the ancient Silk Route) in a four-wheel drive vehicle and arriving at the first of the major earthquake areas. He described what is called ‘Tent Village’ – which is realistically thousands of tents which house and shelter the multitude of victims. He insists that it truly is a heartbreaking experience.

In conversation to his father Tom Jenkins, in his second telephone call from the North-West Frontier, he states that where he was (in regard to the time factor), was five hours on from Ynyswen and the scenery was panoramic and par-excellence. 

Witnessing the sunset in the Himalayas, but also the thousands of tents as far as the eye could see and experiencing the freezing weather endured by these unfortunate people.

Andrew emphasised that he had met so many remarkable people that had been there for months, and in particular, two medical doctors working very long hours in a make-shift canvas hospital. On behalf of Action Overseas he has organised the delivery of vital equipment such as portable gas cookers etc. etc.

Andrew and Joyce (who is a Clydach Vale girl) have two sons, namely Joseph and Nicolas.

Joseph was a regular soldier for seven years and served in the Parachute Regiment on Active service in the Kosovo conflict, and was stationed in the Serbian Embassy in Pristina, also serving on operational service in Northern Ireland . He is now a police officer in the north of England .

Nicholas, their youngest son, works for Lloyds TSB in London . 

They are all very proud of their roots within the Rhondda Valley.

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My name is Marie Stocks, formally Marie Hughes. I lived in Treorchy for many years until I moved to New Zealand with my lovely husband James.

Now I'm not too sure if many of you remember me, but for those who do I would like to say hello. I think about everyone on a daily basis and if you could be so kind to wish my uncle Mal (from Sampson's green grocer) all the best and I hope he gets well soon, it would be much appreciated.

Well life over here is quite different from valley life, it's quite hectic. I have a job in the city (Auckland) sign writing, but it's not just that I also design the signs that get made. I've also taken up the sport of drag racing (not dressing up in men's clothing and doing the 100m, the sort with a car) I've been doing this for about 3 years and have a personal best of a 13.3sec for the quarter mile (I have included a pic of my rx7)

As for the weather, it's not all it's cracked up to be - we had so much rain this winter it felt like home, and in the summer, yeah it's hot - really hot. You can't escape it no matter how hard you try. but it's nice some times, when I'm out on my deck looking at the sunset with a nice cold lager chilling with the scenery

(pic off my deck included, it's a bit dark though)

I miss my family heaps so I'd like to mention my mam, dad, Steve, Anto, Lyndis, my nephew Daniel, all my other relatives and friends, oh and mustn't forget the Crown, I love you all.

Thanks for taking the time to read my little letter of the insight to my life here, it's good, but I still miss home.

I would like to hear from anyone so if you want you can e-mail me on marie@sharpsigns.co.nz 

cheers Marie:)

Marie Stocks website: www.sharpsigns.co.nz

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However, OTHER CHOIRS in the Rhondda have had/are having tours abroad.  Cor Meibion Morlais recently toured Prague& its environs. The CAMBRIAN Male choir will be touring Canada in August.  I look forward to see these choirs names added to your list of notices.

sincerely

Selwyn Davies

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I was browsing around and found your site, and its very interesting as well, and I wondered if you have ever done an article about the children that came there during the war ( 1944 ) and in my case being a Londoner to a totally different environment.

I stayed with a family called Oram, George the father ran a shop in the High Street which did Bicycles and charged accumulator batteries, something that has stuck in my memory. I think it was owned by someone called Phil Jones. Also Mr Oram was a special constable, and they had two children Dennis and Jean a bit older than I was then (10 ) and my two brothers stayed with a family called Jones next door. 

Our school was on a cross roads where you go to the railway station and the Park and Dare cinema, I think it was called that,  there was also another cinema near the station.

I have never been back to the valley since I left back in 1945 or had contact with the family. No doubt places have changed and people have passed on but the happy times I had there and the way we were looked after has stayed with me all those years, and sitting here now an old man myself, I wonder if there are any of the family left? Or any of the places left that some of your readers might tell me about?

Thank you

Terry  TERENCEPURDY@aol.com 

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I am tracing the history of the rhondda public houses and would be grateful for any information or old photographs you or your readers may have.

Peter Davies   peter_davies61@hotmail.com 

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The teachers, with two exceptions, appeared to be sadists who seemed to delight in using the cane at every opportunity, of hitting children about the head on the slightest pretext, beating individuals for prolonged period and creating an atmosphere of fear.

The teacher I had was Mr Evans.  Does anyone have a good word for him,  I wonder ?

G.B. Jones   graham@gbj78.fsnet.co.uk 

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Here are some photographs we took last week. 

As you can see, I am at a computer updating my star search website which you can visit at http://starsearch.mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk 

The picture was taken in room QB 5 of the Queens building at the Royal National College for the Blind at Hereford. 

I am getting ready for the Starsearch Talent Show at the Pentre Legion Club, Albert Street, Pentre which kicks off on Wednesday 21st September 2005. 

I will be doing all the press releases from the college Flexible Learning Centre or the FLC for short. 

Its very quiet in here, well at least until someone’s mobile goes off. 

Here is a picture of the inside of the FLC 

Well must go now, but if you would like to keep in touch, pleas e mail me at nh9921@rncb.ac.uk 

Or I will see you all in the caffi or the Stag. 

By for now. 

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Dear Sir / Madam

RE: CONSUMERS ARE MISSING OUT ON FREE SERVICES

I would like to point out that many of your readers are missing out on free services from their gas and electricity supplier.

All gas and electricity suppliers are obliged to offer a range of free services to domestic consumers who are either over 60, live with a disability or long term ill health or are visually or hearing impaired.  Ofgem research shows that 74% of those eligible are completely unaware that these services even exist.

The range of free services which eligible consumers can choose from include a free, annual safety check of gas appliances, help with repositioning meters that are inaccessible, a unique password scheme for added protection in the home and special controls and adapters that make appliances easier to use.

For more information and to ensure that they no longer miss out on services they are entitled to, consumers can call energywatch on 08459 06 07 08. 

Kind regards

Joanne Edwards (Area Manager, energywatch Wales )

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New Website. 

As part of my training at the Royal National College for the Blind at Hereford, I have designed an entertainment website. 

This will have information on entertainment and local events in Rhondda Cynon Taff. 

I would welcome any news to do with entertainment. Or local events either by e mail to nh9921@rncb.ac.uk or by telephone on 01443 439941.  Calls are put through to me at Hereford at no extra charge. 

As I am visually impaired, I will also carry news of services for blind and partially sighted people in the area. 

The web address is http://starsearch.mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk 

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Have just come down from a rather windy time on top of the Bwlch mountain and was wondering about the 'Rhondda Stone'.

I found out it was painted in 1967 but why? Does anyone know? 

It's the stone that has 'CYMRU AM BYTH' then a green and red shield and 'WELCOME TO THE VALLEYS' written on it.  What's the story behind it?

Sean James Cameron

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I lived in Treorchy at Colum Street until I moved to a Methodist Home 5 years ago.

My sister Eveline still lives in Colum St in Treorchy and she sent the book. (Treorchy.net's Christmas 2004 Community Newsletter) 

The missing word in the word-search is 'Lion' and all the word-search items are names of public houses from Treherbert to Ystrad.

Dilys Owens, South Glamorgan

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I am currently researching my family tree on my late mother's side and sometime ago I came across this photograph which had been sent to my grandfather, Hercules Lewis, who was born in Llanwnog - a small village near New town, Montgomeryshire.

A railwayman all his working life, he came to Neath taking up the post of Stationmaster on the Neath & Brecon Railway which he held until his retirement in 1932.

As you will see, (from the photo) there is a connection with the railways as one of the gentlemen in the group is in railway attire and from the message that is written on the back of this photo I am led to believe that this family also came from the Newtown area, possibly Llanwnog itself, as there is a query about my grandfather's brother who I know had no connection with the Neath area.

The photograph comes from Griffith and Louisa Dagmar Jones and Martha Jane Griffiths and the address given is 5 Park Road, Cwmpark, Treorchy and as I mentioned to you, should there be any descendants of this family still living in your area I should be only too pleased to pass on the original photo to them.

Another interesting item I came across a few days ago relating to Llanwnog and Cwmpark was that of a Phoebe Brown, who, with her family moved from llanwnog to Cwmpark sometime in the late 1800's and a neice of hers was a well-known actress at that time, a Ms Hope Charters/Chartaris.

Is it possible that the Brown family are connected to the Griffiths family as it is an extraordinary coincidence that here again we have a connection between Llanwnog and Cwmpark.

Yours, in anticipation,

Terry Evans, Skewen, Neath, West Glamorgan

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BACK TO BAD OLD DAYS ON THE COUNCIL 

I am not sure many of your readers will have heard about the new Labour council doctoring the minutes of a recent council meeting. 

In short, the new Labour leader on the council made false allegations about the previous administration. He alleged that Plaid Cymru had run the council into a budget deficit of £15million. The District Auditor has confirmed the Plaid Cymru -The Party of Wales administration had been running at a substantial surplus. 

Plaid Cymru's Pauline Jarman, Leader of the Opposition on the council, asked for an officer's report into the budget situation in order to prove that the authority was not in deficit.  That request was voted down. However, there was no mention of her asking for this report in the minutes of the meeting.  When Cllr. Jarman  sought to amend the minutes, Labour voted against, attempting to hide the truth. 

Why did this happen? For all the talk of modern open government, new Labour in Rhondda Cynon Taf seems to be stuck in the dark ages. 

I have made an official complaint to the Local Government Ombudsman about the council's conduct. 

It may not seem like as big an issue, but it is part of a dangerous trend. 

Everyone in Plaid Cymru - The Party of Wales understands that we lost the council election - we got 35% of the vote and Labour got 53%.  We accept that result and are working to learn the lessons.  However, we are not prepared to accept lies.  The Plaid administration is not guilty of financial mismanagement, and we are not prepared to take such accusations lying down. 

Unfortunately, it appears that New Labour have yet to learn the lessons of their 1999 defeat.  Do they see this year's victory as a blank cheque to go back to the bad old days?  In four months we have seen the cost of  recycling for businesses rise, projects that would tackle anti social behaviour put on hold and now, it seems, blatant corruption. 

Leanne Wood AM for South Wales Central
Plaid Cymru - The Party of Wales

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Can you please make a note that recently, over a two month period, I have had 3 things happen to me which necessitated the police being involved. 

When we went to look at the cameras on the High Street and Bute Street for evidence - it turned out that the cameras don't work.

I think that this is a disgrace and should be put right immediately, but I don't know who to see about it.

Thanks, 

"Anon, Treorchy" (name & address supplied)

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I remember Richard Ashton in my school days. He was a particularly hirsute person. So much so in fact that it was rumoured that during a full moon he turned into a human being. I could be wrong of course.

"Captain Parc

Leader of the Cwmparcatrons"

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Local History

I was pleased to catch up with Mal Morris recently, when he rang to pass on some fascinating local facts.

Mal is now a resident at Ty Pentwyn Nursing Home and said that he believed the oldest business in Treorchy was possibly either Caxton Press in Howard Street, or Jonah Lewis Coffin Makers of Dyfodwg Street.

He also recalled that there was a temperance bar in Treorchy in 1905, situated next door down to Noddfa Chapel.

Rose

Treorchy.net

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WOW !!! Plaid. 

I just love the idea of closing Treorchy library. 

As you're IN CHARGE perhaps you could tell us all when the book burning starts. 

HEY!!! Today Treorchy - tomorrow THE WORLD.

"Yours Obergruppenfuhrer

Daffydd Von Trogg ap Strudel"

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This is the voice of the Cwmparcatrons.

In consideration of the speed and deference with which the one known as Rose has began to spread the ineluctable rise of the Cwmparcatrons, Tallis High Command has deigned to reveal more of the arcane ways of this veritable paradise.

Did you know that twenty million tons of slag has been shifted from the side of the Bwlch to the top of Mynedd Maendy in order to give the inhabitants of Incline Row - yes Incline Row and not Dinam Park Avenue (where ever that name came from) the benefit of hard toiled over Cwmparc soil.

Did you know that despite being no more than a quarter of a mile from "open" country all the dogs in Cwmparc seem to prefer the streets for toiletry purposes. Its disconcerting to see a dog taking a shave in and off the main drag no matter what time of day it is.

Did you know that the picnic area off the Bwlch is the most popular nocturnal eating place in all Christendom. 2am, 3am, 4am it makes no difference there's always somebody there - eating in the dark and practicing with their head lights. Its creepy.

Did you know that unless you wave your arms about like a demented threshing machine the local bus service (which incidentally will not run on Sundays for love or money) will pass you by even  when the driver and second man look you straight in the eyes.

I could go on - but not yet - There is only so much the great unwashed can take in one sitting. Further exposures will follow as the High Command sees fit.

Until then this is on the record off the QT and not hush- hush.

"Captain Parc

Leader of the Cwmparcatrons"

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This is the voice of Cwmparcatrons We know you can hear us Treorchy people. 

It has been decided by Tallis High Command that from time to time information will be leaked via this communicating device in order to educate the great unwashed of the events and ways of the Cwmparcatrons. It is hoped that the following and future information will allay the fears of the mere mortals who live outside this veritable Shangri La and who quite understandably are terrified of the superior local inhabitants and their ways.

Our first revelation concerns the local bus service.

The innocuous looking vehicle that travels between the Cwmparc Terminus and the cemetery gates in Treorchy is in fact a TARDIS; it appears and disappears almost at will in a totally erratic manner and there is no guarantee where it will stop - there being a dearth of designated time / space continuum portals off Parc Rd.

Our second revelation concerns local Post Office.

Be warned Treorchy people. This office is about to close for all time due to the pressure of a capitalist driven economy. This means that almost sixteen hundred Cwmparcatrons will have no option but to descend upon the super efficient Stamps R Us premises now operating in High St Treorchy. Chaos will ensue and assimilation is inevitable.  Luckily for you intermarriage between Cwmparcatrons and outsiders has continued unnoticed for generations and so the shock of our superior genes will not unduly affect you.

Our third and final revelation in this first historic message concerns cheap booze.

Stay away Treorchy people. There is absolutely NO - I repeat - NO truth in the rumour that every conceivable kind of alcoholic beverage is sold here  25% cheaper than anywhere else in the known universe - NO truth at all - not even gut rot cider with names like White Tornado, White Planet and Coal Tar Surprise (titles have been changed to stop an investigation). So steer well clear of the local shops which are for local people. Believe me you will not regret it in the morning.

Goodbye for now Treorchy people. Further communication will commence as and when your enlightenment needs to be advanced.

Yours incredulously,

"Captain Parc - Leader of The Cwmparcatrons."

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Dear readers,

I remember my mother making "teisan lap" many years ago.
I wonder if there is someone amongst the many excellent cooks that the Rhondda has produced over the years, who can give the traditional way of making this delicious cake.
It was always very popular amongst the coal miners in my family, to take to work with them. 
They said that it remained moist no matter how warm it got on the coalface.

Yn gywir, Sincerely, Ben Howells, Treorci.

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Teisan lap

1lb flour                                              eggs

4ozs lard                                            pinch nutmeg

4ozs butter                                         milk

2tsp   baking powder

8-ozs currants.

7-ozs sugar

Rub fat into flour and add other dry ingredients.  Beat eggs well and add to mixture. Add enough milk to keep mixture soft. Place in a shallow, greased and floured tin and bake in oven at 350f or mark 4 for 20mins and then lower to 275f or mark 3 for 40mins

Sketty, Canada

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Dear editor

I would like to know the views of readers using this site as to the current situation regarding the Traffic Lights at the Stag Square Treorchy.

For many years now I like many other residents of the Upper Rhondda have suffered sat in traffic queues either in the morning, around mid day or in the evenings. However, when the lights are not working, we have no traffic hold ups.

Why can't someone look at the possibility of removing the lights, making one lane in each direction approach the junction instead of two as present (One for Treherbert and one for Cwmparc or one for right turn to Cwmparc and one for straight on) then to place a painted mini roundabout similar to that at the Star Hotel in Ystrad or the bottom of Cymmer Hill in Porth.

If I were a business person, I would not consider setting up a business in an area where my goods or my customers would spend most of their journey time negotiating one junction.

If traffic flowed better around the Stag Square, more people may be enticed to shop in Treorchy. As things stand, people make for other areas because they know if they go to Treorchy, they will sit in traffic and waste their day.

Come on Treorchy lets get these lights switched off and get a mini roundabout put in their place.Comments most welcome.

Dave Morris, Tynewydd

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Hi...

i am very glad that blaenrhondda has got its very own community organisation, over the past few years of its existance it has turn from a community organisation to more like the government of blaenrhondda. the chairwoman thiks she is the mayoress and hes associates are the mayors assistants, and for the news letter it has turned more fro an informative laeflet to a complaint letter about the residents, they publish news letters like "noisy neighbours" and "suspicious looking people in blaenrhondda"

they only present news that is an issue for them. They dont even ask the residents of bleanrhondda for thier suggestions the are just plainly not interested.

thier disco was a sucsess for a while but now troublesome children from different parts of the valley are travelling up to blaenrhondda and vandalising being abusive to residents and generally making a nuisence of themselves.

i just wan the community association to sort themselves out because it is just going to get worse and worse, little do they know that behind closed doors the people of blaenrhondda laugh about them they are a joke to us. we are simply not interested anymore, they are pointless.

i hope they can sort it all out or in a few months support for them will stop completely and they willl just dissapear.

"Anon, Blaenrhondda"

(name & address supplied)

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Treorchy.net replies... At the specific request of the author, we have published this letter without any alteration of content. What do you think readers? Are the views expressed too harsh or unfair? Let us have your comments on this letter, or on any other subject. Send them in to magazine@treorchy.net - we'd love to hear from you :-)

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Dear Anon,

I was glad to receive your comments on the Treorchy website as I have taken the courtesy to register this, perhaps now you will be willing to reveal who you are so that you and I can get together and talk things over.  I am sorry if the Association in Blaenrhondda is such a disappointment to you.

Yours sincerely - Malcolm Llewelyn - Secretary

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Dear Anon,

I was browsing through the website and was shocked to read from an "anon from Blaenrhondda" about the community association.

A few years ago we had nothing at all in Blaenrhondda but since the community centre has started it has put new life into our village. I can't help feeling that the person that wrote this email must have a personal vendetta against the chair person, who in my opinion has worked hard for the association for a number of years in all weathers - so Blaenrhondda young and old can benefit from her and the committees hard work. 

Living near the social club where the discos take place. I see the children are disciplined by the committee and kept in control. 

In my opinion the disco is very successful and a credit to the association. I don't hear any other complaints from anyone else and I know a lot of people.

I get the monthly newsletter which I enjoy reading, and I disagree with what Anon is saying. I also feel that is a load of crap and is discrediting the hard work that is being done by the association. 

When ever I speak to any committee member they will always listen to what I have to say and they will also go out of their way to help anyone.

• To the community association - please don't take this e-mail to heart as most people think you are doing a brilliant job.

• to the anonymous person who wrote this it is a pity you won't help with the association to share your opinions rather than work against them.

yours, Tammy.

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Dear Anon,

I was saddened to come across this posting on the Internet knowing that you feel so bitter about the community association.  I am a member of the committee and have been a member since it started back 4 years ago.  I find it enjoyable and rewarding normally, to see that what we are doing is helping the community and putting events on so that people can enjoy.  

It saddens me when people like "ANON" puts the association down after all the hard work that we have done to build it up.  If you feel so strongly about the way it is run why not come on board and share your views and the ways you think that it could be improved! 

Regarding the comment about the chair being Mayoress and we being her assistants, I found it an insult, as our committee is a team, we speak our minds and make our points freely not being dictated to by the chair.  

If you came and joined our association and gave your time (like the other people do which make it a success) to help the community rather than slag it off maybe you would see what really happens and not listen to gossip.

As for the newsletter, I myself write the newsletter.  We put in all the information that is going on with the association and we put in views and concerns from the people of Blaenrhondda, such as the complaint of one street, was brought to us by several members of the community. 

If you have any suggestions that you would like to have put in, then please contact me.

The Disco has grown from strength to strength and yes we do have children from all areas coming to the disco, most children are picked up and dropped off to the club, while they are there they are supervised and they behave. 

We have received many compliments NOT complaints at how the disco is run, and how safe the parents feel that their children are going to a safe environment. 

I would also like to know how we are a JOKE to the community of Blaenrhondda, when that's all we do is help and provide the people of the community and make it a better place to live in.

Yours sincerely, Lesley Hudson (Committee Member)

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Hi!

It is almost a week now since I offered to meet with you to discuss your views of the Blaenrhondda Association.  For everyone to know what we are about:-

The Assoc. was formed almost 4 years ago by public nomination and election.  Since that time we have brought education and leisure activities, which previously did not exist.  Under the leadership of our Chair person and with the dedicated work team we have proved to be very successful in this. 

Every week we have 130 children in our children's disco.  Ask their parents how they feel about the way it is run.  226 local people support our monthly draw.  We are taking 40 local people to Ostend in November and 96+ people to Paris Disney next May. 

We help to organise relief for local people who arrive in the village with no possessions.  Details are confidential, naturally.  Last Friday we brought the Too Good to Waste team on their third visit to the village so that people on Income Support can buy furniture cheaply.

During this month, October we -

1. held a resuscitation class to enable people to assist others when they have a heart attack.  More training sessions are to be held soon.

2. last night (1st Oct) we had a 50s and 60s night in the disco.  140 children attended - no trouble.

3. on October 11th we are running a 'bus trip to Birmingham - 40+ people are coming.

5. on Friday, 17th Oct. we are holding a coffee morning in aid of Ty Hafan.

5. on 29th we have our Halloween party.

And for the future,

Nov. 5th - children's Bonfire Night

In Dec.  our children's Christmas Party.  Around Christmas period Sanda Claus will visit the village, as he has done over the last two years.  This proves we think that we are doing the "right thing" by the people of Blaenrhondda and we are very far from being the "Government of Blaenrhondda" as you claim.

Regards - Malcolm Llewelyn, Secretary

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Hello....

I am deeply saddened by the letter received from 'Anon'.  As an ex-committee member I know the ins and out's of the Community Centre.  I can tell you that the Association is a TEAM effort, and not individually run! 

In the last four years, the Committee as a whole have achieved so much and I think I can speak for so many people of Blaenrhondda that they done a fantastic job given certain set-backs through the years. 
But they managed to get through it all with the strong support from the backbone of the Association - 'The Residents of Blaenrhondda'.

I found it very interesting to read the badly spelt letter from the Anon of Blaenrhondda, in the way that certain comments made in the letter would only have been known by someone VERY CLOSE TO HOME, if you know what I mean.
(If you have any problems with gramma and spelling, why not attend one of the Associaiton's classes!!!!)

This has always been a problem, whereby gutless homo-sapiens CANNOT resist their tongues wagging outside, (Certain people could make it an Olympic Event), instead of bringing them to the Associations attention, and discussing them in a calm and methodical manner.

With respect to the comments mad to certain Officials of the committee, Well, it seems a bit personal to me, and that the Anon and many other people should recognise a hard working and dedicated individual that stands before us in a united effort to make Blaenrhondda a place to be proud of !!!!!

Please disreagard the Anon letter, and I think we can expect great things from the Blaenrhondda Community Centre in the future.

Well done team !!!!!!  Keep Up the Good Work !!!!!!!

Mr Matthew John Langley

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For The Attention of ANON,

It was brought to my attention regarding Blaenrhondda Community Project Ltd. I was quite taken back by what I read.  In my opinion what a horrible person you must be!!

You say it has turned into a government thing (BULL).  The community is run properly by these people who care.  You try to take the "P" out of the chair person and the rest of the committee, I know these people are very hard working and if it wasn't for their strong determination as a TEAM Blaenrhondda Community wouldn't be the success it is today.

You say about the newsletter, I can't fault it!!!! It does the job it is intended to do!  If your reading is anything like your spelling you wouldn't be able to understand the newsletter anyway.

You to me "anon" are gutless and have too much time on your hands.  Instead of Criticising, why not try to help make Blaenrhondda a better place and join the community project!

The remark you make about the disco being unsuccessful! What you think 140 children is a fragment of our imagination.  What is your problem don't you like children or can't you remember being a child yourself?

About the community sorting itself out, I think you should sort yourself out first, as I feel it is you with a problem.

You say that people laugh behind closed doors.  I don't believe that, due to all the support they are getting.  I know for a fact that the community association laughs at NO ONE and is only interested in helping people from the young to the old.

Why are you trying to destroy something good that is happening here!  These people have put life back into very dull Blaenrhondda.

FINAL COMMENT

Something is baffling me "anon", for someone with such strong views, why didn't you put your name to your comments made .................... or couldn't you spell it!!!

Yours, Ian Pugh.

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Dear Editor,

With regard the to the entry from " Anon ", may I state that as it was anonymous, then surely it should not have been published.

However, as it was published, may I state that I am ashamed that a member of our community would proceed in such a spiteful manner, with comments against people who work extremely hard for the welfare of our small population. The committee members give up their time freely for the benefit of EVERYONE.

May I state that without such individuals, the future of Blaenrhondda is bleak. I can assure you "Anon" that the body will have my full backing.

To the members of the Committee, may I PLEASE implore you to continue your excellent work, and if I can be of assistance, I will be here.

An appreciative citizen of Blaenrhondda,    Gareth J. Toms

Treorchy.net replies... It is clearly stated below the original letter that the author's name and address was supplied to our community web site. The pseudonym "Anon, Blaenrhondda" was applied by request.

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Dear Anon,

Regarding Blaenrhondda community organisation . I do not live up Blaenrhondda but have been to many of their events especially the christmas party with my 4 yr old whom which I add throughly enjoys.

We have family living up Blaenrhondda and every Christmas time we visit at the time knowing when Father Christmas is going to pass through Blaenrhondda. 

Last year we were amazed that every home in Blaenrhondda had a bottle of wine making us envious that nothing like that happens around where we live. I am also looking forward to bonfire night .

I end on a note saying to the organisation "keep up the good work."

Yours Andrea (Ton-Pentre)

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Dear Readers

I read with dismay the letter published by Anon regarding the Blaenrhondda Association. I like many readers of this site do not live in Blaenrhondda and am not involved in community activities within that village. However, I have attended many functions organised by the community association and have yet to be disappointed. I have purchased items in the social club and at events such as the Fate on the football field which has helped put money (Albeit a small amount) into the local economy.

I do not live in the village and therefore do not attend meetings held by the community association. However, were i to live in Baenrhondda, i would attend meetings and would contribute to proceedings.

If Anon is so un-happy with the committee and the manner in which proceedings are undertaken, and feels that they can do better, why not make yourself known and attend the meetings contributing and benefiting the community instead of criticising without possessing all the facts.

It is so easy to criticise, especially when doing so anonymously. If you have anything constructive to contribute, including constructive criticism, then no doubt the association would welcome your views. If you feel that you are not being represented satisfactory, then say so at the meeting or arrange a confidential meeting with the chair and vice chair.

Mature debate allows ideas to blossom. In a community like Blaenrhondda, everyone will have different ideas. The committee has a hard job in prioritising and backing one idea over another. Someone will always loose out. when an individuals idea is not supported, that Individual may feel rejected and scorned. However, when an idea is passed and supported, it benefits the whole community and those who visit the community.

I would ask the anonymous writer to come foreword and discuss any issues openly rather than hide behind a vale of secrecy. I would also ask the editor of the site to refrain from publishing anonymous e mail correspondents in future, as people should be published only if they have their names published.

Democracy will die without open ness. Be open allow democratic debate to flourish. It seems that through anonymous literature being issued by government ministers, the UK waged a war on Iraq only to now find no substance in the original information. Anonymity causes more harm than good. This site should either publish named correspondence or fail to be taken seriously as a community site.

Dave Morris, Tynewydd

Treorchy.net replies...We only publish letters from those who have the courtesy to supply us with their name and address. Anyone who wishes to remain anonymous afterwards by supplying a pseudonym may then do so. 

There are many instances when individuals may - for whatever reason - not wish to have their identity published. It is not for us therefore, to determine who shall or shall not be allowed to put their points forward. 

As you are aware, our readership is indeed world-wide, and that - we believe - is indication enough of how seriously this community web site is already being taken. The amount of published replies to Anon will underline the fact that it is our intention to promote debate here, not stifle it.

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Hello...

I was pleasantly surprised to see a new bus service has been introduced which gives an hourly service to Caerphilly.

It's a lovely town with a good shopping centre and of course the castle. I wonder if other readers (like me) would welcome services to areas such as Merthyr or Aberdare. 

I know a service runs to Aberdare via Maerdy, but in this valley we are not so lucky. Buses do run to Tesco and Asda but there is insufficient time to take in Aberdare shopping centre.

I have spoken to several friends who have never been to Merthyr to shop because they don't have cars - but it too has a very good shopping centre. 

I drive, so I am able to get to these places, but with the decline of places like Pontypridd it is nice to have alternatives. I know you can access these places by train from this valley - but you have to change at Pontypridd so most people don't bother.

There is also limited access to places like Swansea and Brecon, but again if people had reliable bus services I am sure they would leave the car at home.

yours, "Molly Malone"

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Treorchy.net replies... Thanks to "Molly" for starting our letter's page off  - and if anyone would like to reply to her or send in a letter on another subject, please go right ahead and send it in to magazine@treorchy.net - we'd love to hear from you :-)

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