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Community News is produced on recycled paper See page 4-5 See page 6 See page 8 See page 15 www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk EDITION 48 APRIL - MAY 2009 NEWS brief Awards for all TRINITY University is inviting nominations for it’s first Community Awards scheme. The awards aims to recognise outstanding individuals who have made a substantial contribution to community or voluntary initiative within Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion or Pembrokeshire. There are seven categories – Learning in the Community; Youth Endeavour for Better Communities; Language and Community; Faith in our Communities; Enriching Life in the Community; Sports and Recreation; and Disability in the Community. There is also a Trinity Award which will be presented to one of the category winners for outstanding achievement in community service. For more information or to nominate contact the Awards Office on 01267 676685 or log onto www.trinitycm.ac.uk. General Manager: Jon Williams Under starters orders... FFOS Las Racecourse is ready for the off with the first race taking place in June. The multi-million-pound development is a huge boost for the local economy and will provide yet another first class facility for the area. The finishing touches are now being put to the course which will open for its first race on Thursday, June 18. There will be a total of six races with the first under starters orders at 6.50pm and the last at 9.30pm. Doors will open at the course from 1pm for people to have a look around ad see the new facilities. This year, there will be eight race days at Ffos Las and 16 next year, with dates to be confirmed. There has been a huge amount of interest in the course which is the first new one in the UK for almost 90 years. Hundreds of people have already bought season tickets, and over 2,000 have booked in advance for the first race day. All corporate hospitality and restaurant packages have sold out. The development, which has been delivered by the Walters Group and supported by Carmarthenshire County Council, is being managed by Northern Racing. It has three tracks and will cater for flat racing, hurdles and chase events. It houses a grandstand, stables, hostel accommodation for stable staff, a weigh-in centre, changing facilities, offices, betting and catering facilities plus a 150seater restaurant with balcony views across the one and a halfmile course. Ffos Las has created 15 full-time jobs and dozens of others on race days, it also uses local suppliers and services as much as possible to boost the local economy. The facility is expected to attract many thousands of people throughout the year from across Wales, the rest of the UK and Ireland. Along with racing it will provide a top class venue for weddings, conferences, and a range of other events. For more information log on to www.ffoslasracecourse.com or call 01554 811092. 01267 234567 direct@carmarthenshire.gov.uk www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk opening hours Monday - Friday 8:30am - 6pm Would you like to advertise within Community News? This paper is distributed to every household within the County. For further information contact 01267 224654 or email advertising@carmarthenshire.gov.uk 2 Community NEWS | Edition 48 April - May 2009 Welcome www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Working together FFOS Las racecourse being under starter’s orders is just one of the good news stories we have in this edition of Community News. The racecourse is yet another major development for Carmarthenshire which will provide an excellent facility and a huge boost to the local economy. This is particularly important in these troubled financial times – something we have recognised in our council tax setting for this year. At just 3.3 per cent, it is one of the lowest in Wales, whilst still providing the vital investment needed to boost our county during the recession. On pages 4 and 5 we have also provided information on various services available to help people through the credit crunch which we hope readers find useful. In our centre pages, we have included a Who’s Who of county councillors to provide readers with information and contact details of their local members. Readers are welcome to contact their county councillor to discuss any issues of concern to them. We are a listening council and we want to ensure we provide the services people tell us they want. Email us at listeningtoyou@carmarthenshire.gov.uk. MEMBERS of different churches and faiths across Carmarthenshire have come together to look at ways of strengthening community services. A Faith at Work in Carmarthenshire conference was organised by the county council to recognise and expand the great contribution made to life by faith communities and to identify ways to strengthen services together. County Council, County Hall, Carmarthen Executive Board, County Hall, Carmarthen Executive Board, County Hall, Carmarthen Speakers included Council Leader Cllr Meryl Gravell and Chief Executive Mark James, Director of CAVS Ieuan Williams, President of Gweini Julian Richards and Research Director John Evans, and Chief Nursing Officer for Wales Rosemary Kennedy. A series of actions has now been agreed and feedback will be provided on what has been achieved as a result. Council Diary April 2009 8/04/2009 15/04/2009 27/04/2009 10am 10am 10am Keeping tax low CARMARTHENSHIRE has one of the lowest council tax increases in Wales at 3.3 per cent whilst still improving services and protecting jobs. Council reserves of £1.3 million have been used to keep down the increase which means a rise of 50p a week for most residents. Efficiency savings of around £2.5 million have been made and all budgets and services have been examined in a bid to keep the figure at the lowest level possible, whilst still delivering major regeneration schemes and investing in services. Extensive consultation on the budget was also carried out with local residents, businesses and the council’s scrutiny committees. Children’s Services will receive almost £100,000 to help cope with an increased demand for social workers. The county’s Modernising Education Provision programme will continue and an extra £530,000 has been provided to schools, along with another £650,000 for housing renewal areas. The Carmarthenshire Homes Standard programme, which is delivering millions of pounds of improvements to council homes, will also continue. Council Leader Cllr Meryl Gravell said: “The executive board had three clear objectives – to minimise the impact of the economic downturn by supporting local businesses and protecting jobs; to ensure Carmarthenshire would be in a fit and ready state to take advantage of an economic upturn and spend any convergence funding left; and to minimise the impact of our council tax proposals on the local council tax payer.” May 2009 11/05/2009 13/05/2009 20/05/2009 26/05/2009 10am 10am 10am 10am Executive Board, County Hall, Carmarthen County Council, County Hall, Carmarthen County Council AGM, County Hall, Carmarthen Executive Board, County Hall, Carmarthen Please let us know if there are any specific committees you would like us to list within the Community News For further information or a full list of committee meetings visit www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk or contact 01267 224029 We hope you enjoy reading the ‘Community News’. If you would like to comment on any aspect of the publication, please contact: Deina Hockenhull, Communications Manager, Customer Focus & Policy, Carmarthenshire County Council, County Hall, Carmarthen, SA31 1JP Tel: 01267 224654 Email: DMHockenhull@carmarthenshire.gov.uk We also need to hear from anyone who may have received more than one copy so that we can amend the County Council database. Rights to photographs reserved; photographs may not be reproduced without prior written permission from the above address. Have your say... CARMARTHENSHIRE residents are being urged to have a say on dial-a-ride bus services. The project provides a door-to-door service for people who live off the beaten track, or those in wheelchairs and with mobility problems. The service calls at a number of stops, but can also be pre-booked by passengers who want it to divert off the main route and pick them up from home. Buses are running in Pembrey, Burry Port, Kidwelly and Llanelli, and another has just been re-launched in Carmarthen. Bookings for Saturdays and Mondays should be made by the Friday before by ringing 0845 634 0661. Officers are urging people who use the service or would like to access it to get in touch with their views and suggestions. Comments should be sent to the Passenger Transport Unit, Carmarthenshire County Council, Llanstephen Road, Johnstown, Carmarthen, SA31 3LZ, email PublicTransport@carmarthenshire. gov.uk or telephone 01267 224386. www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Community NEWS | Edition 48 April - May 2009 3 New school’s green heating system A CARMARTHEN school is to become one of the most eco-friendly in Wales. Ysgol y Dderwen’s new teaching wing has been designed with a number of environmentally friendly features – including one of the most advanced underground heating systems available. Geothermal ground source heating - common to just a few schools in the country – works through extracting heat from the ground through a series of bore holes which reach a depth of around 100 metres. Water is pumped down and circulated back to the heater units – working like a refrigerator in reverse. For every 1kw of energy used the heat pumps give out up to 4kw of heat. All classrooms use natural ventilation for cooling and boast good daylight due to generous window sizes and room heights. Daylight is also boosted by the use of SunPipes and low energy lighting provides backup to daylight. Ysgol Y Dderwen uses rainwater harvesting to lower the impact of water usage. Water is collected from the roof and stored below ground in a large tank, then pumped back into the school for use in toilets. A monitoring system helps reduce energy used and checks the temperature within classrooms, adjusting the heat pump temperature accordingly. The control system also displays energy extracted from the ground and demand of the school, so pupils can see a comparison of the energy used. An energy efficient ventilation system also transfers heat from the stale air to the incoming fresh air by means of heat exchangers which is up to 70 per cent efficient in recovering lost heat. Electrical demand is reduced through detectors that only turn on lighting when there is a person present. Classrooms also incorporate photo cell detectors that turn off lights close to windows when particular lighting levels are achieved by daylight. The eco-friendly building is being delivered through Carmarthenshire County Council’s Modernising Education Provision programme. It will house six classrooms, library, ICT suite, art and technology room, and a range of other facilities. Winner! In the last Community News there was an opportunity for our reader to win Monopoly in Welsh. The winner of the competition is Joanne Williams from Llangennech. A roaring welcome! A 12ft high steel dragon sculpture has been placed on Carmarthen’s prominent Blue Street roundabout to serve as an iconic landmark for visitors entering the town. Pictured at the launch of Carmarthen’s latest art installation is sculptor Tony Woodman, and West Wales Adult Placement service users Addrian Fine, Michael O’ Sullivan and Beccy Southers. The dragon was created by a group of vulnerable adults who receive day services through the West Wales Adult Placement scheme, which provides accommodation and support in the homes of approved Adult Placement Carers. They helped to design and create the dragon under the guidance of metal craft sculptor and Adult Placement Carer, Tony Woodman, based in the Cych Valley, south of Newcastle Emlyn. The sculpture was funded by a Welsh Assembly grant to develop alternative day service options for vulnerable adults. Congratulations from us all! 4 Community NEWS | Edition 48 April - May 2009 www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Helping to beat th Supporting local businesses through the tough times BUSINESS chiefs in Carmarthenshire are helping to support companies through the credit crunch. The county council’s economic development team is made up of experts who can help companies struggling during the economic downtown. The team offers help and advice on access to funding, including business grants, loans, and funding for the development of infrastructure, sites and premises. Help is also available for new start up businesses, existing companies looking to expand and firms looking to move into the county. A number of new initiatives are being planned to help companies struggling during the current climate, which will be discussed by councillors over the coming weeks. The aim is to offer short term support which will help safeguard jobs in the longer term. Business Services Manager Simon Richards said: “We are currently looking at new ways of helping businesses to ensure their survival and safeguard jobs. Firms may find themselves in need of support now more than ever, and we encourage them to contact us for help and advice during these challenging economic times.” For further information contact the Economic Development unit on 01269 590200. in days out Barga Family fun doesn’t need to cost the earth and Carmarthenshire is full of bargain days out. Fresh air is free and where better to breathe some than at one of Carmarthenshire’s stunning country parks. There’s Pembrey, one of the most popular attractions in Wales; Llyn Llech Owain, a 158-acre expanse of woods and lakeland, and Gelli Aur, home to the delightful fallow deer. The National Wetlands Centre of Wales near Llanelli offers a host of wet weather activities from canoe safaris to pond dipping. This mosaic of lakes, pools and lagoons is home to some of the world’s most spectacular birds. The awardwinning Millennium Coastal Park is much more than just a walk in the park! It offers an unparalleled array of visitor attractions linked by 22km of off road cycleway. When it rains (and it does sometimes), the museums are free! Roll back the centuries at the County Museum in Abergwili and learn about our fascinating ‘Tinopolis’ past at Kidwelly Industrial Museum. Children of all ages will be mesmerised by the collections at the West Wales Museum of Childhood. Homes you can afford families Help for on a tight budget hwyl rhâd Diwrnod Council Cartrefi fforddiadwy Tax Bill Reduce your ... Unzipping Benefits 1 in 3 people who are entitled to help are not getting it.. Are you one of them? Call us free on Mrs Jones is 62 and lives alone. She has a state pension of £90.70 a week and Pension Credit gives her £33.35 per week extra. Mrs Jones was one of them! FULL Council Tax Benefit. Her total weekly income will increase to £124.05. Mrs Jones could qualify for 0800 288 9002 E-mail: housing.benefits@carmarthenshire.gov.uk 'normally if you have savings over £16,000 you are not eligible to claim, if you receive pension guarantee credit you will automatically get full council tax benefit even if you have savings over £16,000' A MAJOR event is being staged in Carmarthenshire to help people suffering the effects of the credit crunch. A special ‘Helping Hand’ information fayre is being planned by the county council. The aim is to let people of all ages know what help and support is available to them during the recession. There will be advice on energy efficiencies, benefits and services for vulnerable people, along with ideas for days out on a budget for families in the county. There will be a variety of exhibitions stands with a huge range of information on cost saving initiatives. Utility companies, along with organisations including Care and Repair, Citizens Advice Bureau, Credit Unions, the Department of Works and Pensions, Catch-Up and Age Concern will attend. The event, which will be held at Carmarthen’s St Peter’s Hall from 26.30pm on May 29, is being organised by a social justice special task and finish group at the council, with support from Carmarthen Town Council. The group has been set up to measure the extent of poverty in the county and plan initiatives to help reduce the problem. Scrutiny Chairman Cllr Stephen James said: “This event is aimed at providing people of all ages with a range of help and support during these difficult economic times. “So many people will be suffering the effects of the recession and the council is committed to helping its residents during this challenging period. “We are confident that this information fayre will prove beneficial and it is our hope to stage similar events in other parts of the county over the coming months.” For further information contact 01554 742122. www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Community NEWS | Edition 48 April - May 2009 5 he credit crunch.... ain days out Barg Homes you can afford d hwyl rhâd Diwrno Cartrefi fforddiadwy With fuel bills rising and the credit crunch biting, there are lots of ways to save money in the home and reduce your carbon footprint at the same time: • Switch to direct debits and paperless billing – many energy companies offer discounts. • Take regular meter readings - bills based on estimated readings mean you could end up paying for more gas or electricity than you actually use. • Don’t leave your appliances on standby, it could save you up to £37 a year. • Take showers instead of baths - a typical bath uses around twice as much water as a shower - and fix any dripping taps. • Turn down your thermostat by 1°C and save up to £65 on your heating bill. • Insulating cavity walls, lofts, tanks and pipes can give you significant savings on your heating bills as well as reducing CO2 emissions. Even simple draught proofing to fill the gaps around your windows can help. • Use energy saving lightbulbs, you could save up to £50 a year. • Choose energy efficient appliances when it’s time to replace your old ones. Look for the Energy Saving Recommended logo to find the most energy efficient. MORE affordable homes are being provided in Carmarthenshire despite the recession and credit crunch. The council has been successful in getting additional funding from the Welsh Assembly for the development of at least 12 bungalows for older people in Ammanford; and two bungalows and six houses in Garnant, both in partnership with Family Housing Association. People can choose to rent or buy at an affordable price, either initially or in the future. The first affordable homes at Bryn and Penygroes are now sold to local families, but affordable apartments are still available at Cwrt-y-Wern in Llanelli. New homes will be coming up soon in association with the Ffos Las racecourse. Around 10 affordable homes are also expected through the planning system over the coming year on all sites. The council is also looking at ways to deliver affordable homes on sites where private developers have stopped work, and at new ways to bring empty properties back into use as affordable homes for rent or sale. The Welsh Assembly has reintroduced the Homebuy scheme from April, and the council will work with local housing associations to provide loans to help families in particular difficulties to buy a home. For more information on affordable homes log on to www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Get on the bus! A number of transport initiatives are available to help people travel cheaply. Car share schemes, dial-a-ride bus services in remote parts of the county, special bus services serving industrial estates and a volunteer social car scheme are some of those available. A new bus link has been provided between the Amman Valley and Capel Hendre Industrial Estate where job opportunities have been created. The X29 leaves Ammanford Bus Station at 7.10am, Mondays to Fridays, for the Industrial Estate. It connects with service X14 from Brynaman, Gwaun-cae-gurwen, Garnant and Glanaman benefiting passengers from Llandybie and Ammanford town centre. It runs in reverse from 4.15pm. The bws bach project provides a door-to-door service for people who live off the beaten track, those in wheelchairs or with mobility problems. The service calls at a number of stops, but it can also be pre-booked by passengers. Buses are running in Pembrey, Burry Port, Kidwelly and Llanelli, and Carmarthen. For information contact: Passenger Transport Unit, Carmarthenshire County Council, Llanstephen Road, Johnstown, Carmarthen, SA31 3LZ, email PublicTransport@carmarthenshire. gov.uk or call 01267 224386. 6 Community NEWS | Edition 48 April - May 2009 www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Residents urged to have their say on street lighting... STREET lighting is under scrutiny in Carmarthenshire and residents are being urged to give their views. The council’s Environment Scrutiny Committee has set up a Task and Finish Group to investigate the option of part-night lighting. It would involve switching off lights between certain times during the night, for example between 12.30am and 5.30am. The group, made up of crossparty members, will look at various proposals, taking into account both current and rising energy costs, any potential carbon savings that can be made, as well as the risks that could be associated with such a scheme, for example, in relation to community safety and road safety. The councillors will consult with the emergency services, the community safety section, road safety unit, traffic management and the public. The group will also speak to other local authorities that have implemented part-night lighting before considering the most appropriate scheme. A recommendation will then be put before the executive board. Group chairman Councillor Jim Jones said: “There are 18,337 public lighting columns throughout the county and the authority pays out around £560,000 a year in energy costs. However, these costs are rising all the time so it is vital that we make financial savings, as well as reduce the council’s carbon footprint.” • Do you think switching off street lights during the night is an effective way of cutting the county’s carbon footprint? • Is part-night lighting a pro-active way of saving money? • The group will be consulting with the police and other partners regarding crime hotspots and core areas where lights should be left on. Do you think this is a good idea? • Do you think switching street lights off during the night is acceptable and will achieve the council’s aims? If not, why not? Please give your reasons. Send responses to the Scrutiny and Consultancy Unit, People Management and Performance, Block 14, St Davids Park, SA31 3HB email/web responses go to: Scrutiny@carmarthenshire.gov.uk 01267 246121 scrutiny@ carmarthenshire.gov.uk rutin Sc your sayy Have Maryann Wright & Susan Manson Recipe by Y Polyn Carmarthenshire Local Development Plan Have your say in the future development of Carmarthenshire Get involved in planning the future of your County. The Carmarthenshire Local Development Plan (LDP), setting out where and how land is to be developed in the County, is centred around strong principles of community involvement and enables everyone with an interest to play a part in the Plan’s preparation. In 2008, people had the opportunity to submit sites that they felt were suitable for development or for protection. You will be able to view the register of submitted sites online and at Customer Service Centres to see what people have in mind. An important stage in the Plan’s early preparation took place in October 2008 when a cross section of interest groups were invited to the first of two Key Stakeholder Forums, to discuss how the County should develop. The second Forum will take place in February and the views will be taken forward to help shape the Preferred Strategy of the LDP, which the public will have a chance to comment on in the near future. Sustainability is a key issue today and forms an integral element throughout the LDP’s preparation. The Plan will be tested against sustainability issues and the results published in the “Sustainability Appraisal” (SA). The public’s comments on the first stage of the SA are now available to view online. Get involved and have your say – visit the website at www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk following the links to Planning, or alternatively ring 01267 228818. Jambon Persilée (Jellied Ham with Parsley) Ingredients: 2 smallish ham hocks 1 medium peeled onion 2 peeled carrots 1 leek 2 stalks celery 2 bay leaves 5 black peppercorns 4 gelatine leaves A large handful of parsley finely chopped Love food hate waste - a great dish for using up the leftovers of a joint of gammon. Method: To use leftover ham keep the liquid the meat was boiled in and reheat before adding all ingredients except except gelatine and parsley into a large stock pot. Bring to boil and skim off any scum. Turn down to simmer and cook gently until ham falls easily from the bone. Remove hocks from liquid and leave to cool. Strain liquid through a fine sieve into a clean bowl. Measure ¾ litre into a jug and cool to blood temperature before adding gelatine and stirring thoroughly. Shred ham hocks into another bowl, discarding all bone and gristle, then stir in parsley. Pack the meat and parsley mixture into a 1½ litre terrine or pyrex bowl, pour liquid over, stir well and leave to set overnight in the fridge. Slice and serve, ideally with piccalilli. www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Community NEWS | Edition 48 April - May 2009 7 Dylan & Eli hit the road Dylan ac Eli nôl ar y ffordd Here’s a way to spend weekends that’ll have 4-16 year olds buzzing. Enrol them in your local Stagecoach Theatre school where they learn to act, sing and dance. THE all-singing and all-dancing Gregory Brothers are back on the road – and this time they are bigger and better than ever! Children’s favourite Eco Eli, the council’s ecofriendly elephant, makes a return to the stage to raise awareness of environmental issues such as recycling, saving energy and litter, but in a fun way. She will be joined by the council’s healthy schools meals mascot Dylan the Dragon who will spread the word on the importance of healthy eating and regular exercise. The show will be full of fun and games, singing and dancing and will be performed to hundreds of pupils in the county. Called ‘On the Road with Dylan and Eco Eli’, it is a joint initiative by the council’s street scene and catering services departments. The skills they learn aren’t just for the Stage. Our students grow in confidence and self-esteem… Skills for Life! There’s no audition – all they need is enthusiasm. No need to run out... PEOPLE who need extra blue bags will now be able to have them delivered to their door. The council has introduced a new scheme in response to residents’ requests for an easier way of getting extra blue bags. A new batch of blue bags is currently being delivered to households. Residents will find a tag attached to one of the bags towards the end of the roll so that when they run out, they can fill in their details and leave the full bag out for collection. The crews will then leave more bags. Previously extra bags had to be collected from Customer Service Centres or community outlets. More residents go green THE green bin/blue bag scheme is being rolled out to another 5,000 homes. Householders in the north and west of the county will benefit from the recycling scheme starting on the week beginning May 11. Residents will be issued with a green bin (and kitchen caddie) for their food waste and blue bags for recycling paper, cardboard, cans and plastic. The green bins are collected weekly, with blue bags and black bags collected on alternate weeks. This will bring the total number of households on the recycling scheme up to 55,000. Environment executive board member Cllr Haydn Jones said: “Figures show that householders are recycling more than 50 per cent of their waste, which is excellent. The county has to recycle and compost at least 40 per cent of its rubbish by 2010; so with residents help we should hit and hopefully exceed - this target.” Recycling roadshows are being planned throughout May, please see local press for details. Areas included in the rollout: North: Cwmann, Pencarreg, Llanybydder, Llanllwni, Llanpumpsaint, Pencader, Llanfihangel Ar Arth, New Inn, Gwyddgrug, Rhos, Saron, Llangeler, Bancyffordd, Pentrecwrt, Llandysul, Hebron, Pontweli, Maesycrugiau, Ty Mawr, Rhydcymerau, Llidiad Nenog, Brechfa, Gwernogle, Llanllawddog, Rhydargaeau, Pontarsais, Alltwalis. West: St Clears, Meidrim, Abernant, Talog, Newchurch, Trevaughan. ENROLLING NOW!! Call Liane Davies, Principal Stagecoach Carmarthen now on: 0845 604 1422 8 Community NEWS | Edition 48 April - May 2009 www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Strictly clog dancing Mencap Cymru to tour the county Carers of people with learning disabilities are being encouraged to visit a mobile information bureau, which will tour the county in May. Mencap Cymru, the voice of learning disability, will promote advice to carers including the rights of children with learning disabilities and welfare benefits. The bureau will visit Whitland, Newcastle Emlyn, Llanybydder, Llandovery, Llandeilo and Cross Hands from May 5-14. Alli Maskell, Assistant Family Adviser for Adults, said: “We hope to access as many ‘hidden carers’ within the county as possible.” Cllr Pat Jones, the county’s carers champion, said: “It’s wonderful that Mencap Cymru is bringing some very beneficial advice to Carmarthenshire’s communities. I’d encourage anyone who cares for someone with a learning disability to visit the bureau and make full use of the information on offer.” Dates and locations will be advertised in local press and radio, plus the county council’s website, closer to the time. For further information call the Family Adviser Service on 01267 232256 ext 307. TOUR DATES AND LOCATIONS: May 5: Whitland - North Road car park May 6: Llanybydder - Station Terrace car park May 7: Newcastle Emlyn - Market car park, off Heol Newydd May 12: Llandeilo - Crescent Road car park May 13: Llandovery - Castle car park May 14: Cross Hands - Co-op car park The bureau will be at the above locations between 10am-2pm each day. THE ancient Welsh tradition of clog dancing is alive and well in Carmarthenshire schools thanks to PE and dance instructor Gethin Page. Gethin, aged 26, started clog dancing at the age of three thanks to his parents Elsbeth and Eifion, West is best With Why is Carmarthenshire such a great county? “It is totally relaxing with its extremely beautifully countryside.” What are your favourite places to visit in Carmarthenshire? “My favourite place is Pembrey Country Park especially Cefn Sidan Beach.” long serving co-founder members of Dawnswyr Talog, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Dozens of schools now call on Gethin’s skills as group clog dancing has become an integral part of our eisteddfodau and dancing tradition. He said: “Boys and girls take to clog dancing with great dexterity and gusto. It is a great character building skill to learn.” Many of Gethin’s protegees will be performing at the Urdd National Eisteddfod in Cardiff Bay from May 25 -30. Jonathan Davies What is you favourite memory of the county? “I have so many happy memories from a very happy childhood in Trimsaran, my happiest is going home from school straight into my mums Morris Minor with her and my sister and to Cefn Sidan Beach, with the tide full in.” If there is one thing about the county what would you change? “To do more to bring in Tourism” What words would you use to describe Carmarthenshire County within Wales “The Hidden Gem of Wales” What is the biggest change you have seen within the county since you were a child? The Sports / Welfare Hall in Trimsaran. The Race Course and the Golf Courses that will ultimately bring in more tourism. www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Community NEWS | Edition 48 April - May 2009 9 Registration Service CARMARTHENSHIRE’S registration service is now open throughout the day to make it easier for residents to access their services. Staff at offices in Carmarthen, Llanelli and Ammanford are on hand to guide people through the registration of births, deaths, marriages, civil partnerships and citizenship. They also design and conduct ceremonies for naming children and the renewal of vows, issue copy certificates and support family history research. The service operates from Carmarthen’s Parc Myrddin, Llanelli’s Coleshill Terrace and Wind Street, Ammanford, offices are open from 9am-5pm Monday to Thursday, and until 4.30pm on Fridays. To make an appointment contact Carmarthen on 01267 228210, Llanelli on 01554 744202 or Ammanford on 01269 598300. Digital switchover Worried about making the change to digital television? The Switchover Help Scheme may be able to assist. Analogue television will be switched off in Carmarthenshire in August and September this year. The Switchover Help Scheme, run by the BBC on behalf of the Government, can help convert your TV to digital if you are aged 75 or over, or have lived in a care home for six months or more, or get (or could get) certain disability benefits, or are registered blind or partially sighted. If you are eligible, the scheme can help switch one of your TV sets to digital. It will provide you with easy-to-use equipment that suits your needs, will help with installing equipment in your home, will fit a new dish or aerial if it is needed to make the new equipment work, will give you an easy-to-understand demonstration of how everything works, and there will be someone you can call for help while you’re getting used to things. If you need any more help or information contact 0800 40 85 900 Monday to Sunday between 8am and 9pm, textphone users call free on 0800 40 85 936, email info@helpscheme.co.uk or Freepost Switchover Help Scheme. If you have any concerns or think you’ve been ripped off, call the Consumer Direct helpline (08454 04 05 06), and you can visit its website for advice. If you prefer face-to-face help and advice go to one of the Council’s Customer Service Centres or call Carmarthenshire Direct on 01267 234567. For independent advice contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau. Return details RELATIVES of deceased bus pass holders are asked to notify the council to avoid any mail being sent which could cause distress. The data base needs to be constantly reviewed and updated so that no unnecessary, and potentially distressing, contact is made following the death of a bus pass holder. More than 40,000 bus passes have already been issued and the number is growing year on year, it is therefore difficult to keep accurate data unless people notify the authority of any change. The council is appealing to relatives of those who held a bus pass to contact them or return the passes. Transport services executive board member Cllr Haydn Jones said: “Bus pass holders are sometimes contacted by mail and this can be distressing for relatives if they have passed away. It would assist greatly if the bus passes could be returned.” Passes can be sent to Carmarthenshire County Council, Concessionary Fares Department, The Old School, Llanstephan Road, Johnstown, Carmarthen. SA31 3LZ, or call Carmarthenshire Direct on 01267 234567 where operators will also be happy to advise other council services of any change in circumstances if needed. Cash boost for British Red Cross THE British Red Cross is to increase its activities in Carmarthenshire thanks to £230,000 funding by Tesco as part of its 2008 Charity of the Year. The prestigious two-year pilot - Calon Elli - will centre on Llanelli, testing and helping to shape the planning and delivery of services way for the future throughout the UK. The Red Cross has successfully operated a number of services in Carmarthenshire over the past three years, including a hospital discharge scheme, which helped nearly 500 people last year; and the short-term loan of medical equipment, first aid and emergency response. New services will include the delivery of emotional and practical support to older people wanting to remain independent in their own homes, and new partnership working with Marie Curie Cancer Care to increase support for patients and their carers. Services will be delivered by both skilled staff and volunteers and a recruitment drive is underway to increase numbers. Carmarthenshire Association of Voluntary oin Services J N w! o CAVS is Carmarthenshire’s umbrella body for the voluntary sector. We provide help with volunteer recruitment and training, funding advice, setting up and running groups, networking and partnership working. Group Membership of CAVS discounts on room hire (e.g. full day hire of £60 is reduced to £50 for members) FREE membership of Clwb CAVS Clwb CAVS For For just £1 per month* The Mount Centre *minimum 12 months subscription For more information go to www.cavs.org.uk 01267 245555 info@cavs.org.uk www.cavs.org.uk 10 Community NEWS | Edition 48 April - May 2009 www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Siblings get set for marathon Drivers needed VOLUNTEER social drivers are needed by the council throughout Carmarthenshire. Country Cars is Carmarthenshire’s own voluntary social car service consisting of 12 independent schemes where communities arrange for volunteer drivers to give lifts to local people who would otherwise be unable to make essential journeys. The service is designed for rural areas where bus services are not so frequent, but it also caters for people who are physically unable to use public transport in both town and country areas. Copies of the Country Cars Information booklet on how the scheme works and role of volunteers can be obtained by writing to Country Cars, The Old School, Llanstephan Road, Johnstown, Carmarthen SA31 3LZ or telephoning 01267 224313, or by email at PublicTransport@carmarthens hire.gov.uk Investing in staff CUSTOMER Service Centres in Carmarthenshire are to close for a half day a month for essential staff training. The closures will take place until 1pm on the first Tuesday of each month starting from April 2. Staff deal with an average of 120,000 customers per year on a wide range of issues, including homelessness, housing, housing benefit and council tax enquiries. They often have to deal with difficult and complex enquiries and therefore require ongoing training to keep up to date with changes and new legislation. Customer Service Centres are located at Ty Elwyn in Llanelli; Spilman Street in Carmarthen; and at Ammanford Town Hall. A brother and sister - who both work for Carmarthenshire County Council - are running the London Marathon next month. Julian Lewis, who works in the corporate procurement unit, and his sister Kathy Lewis, who works in the Chief Executive’s Department, are running on behalf of Sense, the UK’s largest organisation offering support to deaf/blind people and their families. It offers a range of services - including, advice, housing, education and practical help to children and adults who are both deaf and blind. Julian said: “It is a very worthy charity and our fundraising target is £1,500. Another reason for taking part is to help and support Kath to cross the finish line on her first attempt at the London Marathon, fulfilling a lifetime ambition of hers.”Anyone wanting to sponsor Julian and Kath should visit the Just Giving website at www.justgiving. com/julianlewis Justgiving makes sure 25 per cent in Gift Aid, plus a three per cent supplement, are added to taxpayers’ donations. £19m project will help boost local businesses NEW cash grants are being offered to businesses through a £19 million project to help small and medium sized companies. The South West Wales Local Investment Fund aims to increase the number of new firms in the region and offer better support to existing companies. Grants of up to £5,000 will be offered as part of the project, with equipment, premises improvement, one-off marketing costs, website development and specialist software all eligible. Over the next six years, 1,000 jobs are expected to be created, 1,400 companies supported and 400 new enterprises set up. Carmarthenshire will lead the project in partnership with neighbouring authorities in Swansea, Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion and Neath Port Talbot Wales, and the West Wales Chamber of Commerce. The project has received European Convergence funding and the first grants have just been approved. A new team is now being put in place to handle future applications and each case will be assessed on its potential value to the local economy. Carmarthenshire’s Director of Regeneration Dave Gilbert said: “The project will provide support to businesses to help them develop and meet market opportunities. The investment will further strengthen the economic base of this region creating jobs, improving business competitiveness and bringing increased prosperity to the region.” For further information or an expression of interest form contact Andrea Traylor on 01269 590271 or e-mail: ajtraylor@carmarthenshire.gov.uk Celebrating the Tywi Valley A PROGRAMME of activities is being planned to celebrate the rich heritage of the Tywi Valley. Storytelling evenings, photography workshops, theatre performances and themed walks will be staged in the region over the coming weeks and months through the £2.4 million Tywi Afon Yr Oesoedd scheme. Organisers want to bring together communities from across the area and involve them in activities on the landscape, history, culture and language. Evenings with international storyteller Michael Harvey will be organised to revive the tradition of ‘Y Cyfarwydd’ – the itinerant storytellers of the Welsh courts. A contemporary archive of photographs will be built and workshops will be held for anyone interested in learning the skill, and a theatre company will stage performances and artists and sculptors will create works of art across the valley. There will also be chances for people to discover the history of local food and create new recipes based on the fruits of the valley. All the activities are free and everyone is welcomed to join. For further information contact Learning and Interpretation Officer Elgan Jones on 01558 824271 or e-mail: elgwjones@carmarthenshire.gov. uk www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Community NEWS | Edition 48 April - May 2009 11 Market’s new home to open CARMARTHEN’S new Market Hall is open for business from April 8. The purpose-built facility is an integral part of the new St Catherine’s Walk scheme which includes Debenham’s, an Apollo gold multiplex cinema, car park, restaurants and a wide range of shops. The new Market Hall was constructed as stage one of the £74million town centre development. The first class facility houses a wide range of stalls with something for everyone. Billed as the largest department store in Carmarthen, the market is famous for its local goods and Open six days a week – visit Carmarthen Market for a premier shopping experience! locally-produced food, arts, crafts Chair of the Market Tenants Committee Liz excellent facility and is in a prime location for scheme is progressing, and expected to be and a wide range of products and services. Stallholders are known for their friendly Bellamy said: “We are looking forward to shoppers. It is an exciting time for us and for fully complete and open for business by Easter 2010. welcome, local knowledge and range and welcoming customers old and new into our Carmarthen.” Stage two of the St Catherine’s Walk new home. The new Market Hall is an quality of goods. Don’t get caught out – make sure you are on the Electoral Register The European Elections will be held on Thursday 4th June 2009. 'Voting in this election is an opportunity to have your voice heard in the European Parliament' If you are not on the register you will not be able to vote at elections. Last day to submit a registration application form to be included on the register of electors in order to be able to vote in the European Election is Tuesday 19 May. Deadline for requests for a new postal vote or to change or cancel an existing postal vote is Tuesday 19 May. Poll cards for the European Election will be sent out in May. Electors are urged to check their poll cards for details of where they are to vote. Changes have been made to some polling station venues. NEED HELP? - Phone our electoral registration office on 01267 228889 or log on to www.aboutmyvote.co.uk 12 Community NEWS | Edition 48 April - May 2009 www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Tackling anti-social behaviour Creating art A LOT of work is being carried out in Carmarthenshire to reduce anti-social behaviour and criminal damage. It is a high priority for the Community Safety Partnership, and a major concern for residents. A number of projects are being carried out with youngsters - from graffiti workshops to extra youth activities during weekends and school holidays. A comprehensive education and awareness campaign is also underway highlighting the effects of anti-social behaviour on others and the consequences of criminal damage through anti-social behaviour quizzes and police station visits. A four-stage enforcement process of warning letters as well as direct work with individuals is also proving effective. Since April last year 458 warning letters have been issued compared to 363 the previous year. And despite a 21 per cent increase in intervention, figures show a 19 per cent decrease in anti-social behaviour over the past three months. Some 89 per cent of all referrals stopped at the first stage, with only nine per cent progressing to the second stage and two per cent receiving a third warning letter. CSP executive board member Cllr Pam Palmer said: “These initiatives with young people are having positive results which is good news for the public and the Partnership.” To report any type of anti-social behaviour call Carmarthenshire Direct 01267 234567. YOUNGSTERS are being encouraged to use their imagination and get creative using spray paint. Graffiti workshops are being held in the county as part of a community safety initiative which aims to improve the environment and reduce anti-social behaviour. A professional graffiti artist works with the youths to create alternative pieces of art to be displayed in empty shop windows in the town centres. Community Safety Partnership chair Mark James said: “We believe that education and involving young people in activities that they enjoy is the key to preventing any future incidents of anti-social behaviour. These workshops give these young people a chance to display their artistic talents in a legal arena and reap the rewards from their work being displayed.” Four week project to keep young people safe A PARTNERSHIP initiative has helped to give young people in Carmarthenshire a safe place to go on Friday nights. Operation Safe Place was held over a four-week period in Llanelli, Carmarthen, Burry Port and Brynamman. Neighbourhood policing and community safety officers engaged with young people in Carmarthen Park, Asda in Llanelli and outside the cinema in Brynamman tempting them with fruit smoothies and encouraging them to play ball games. A special Friday night youth club was also held for youngsters in Burry Port. The aim of the initiative, which received Home Office funding, was to reduce the fear of crime and cut anti-social behaviour by giving youngsters a safe place to go. YOUNG people in Carmarthenshire have been learning about the consequences of crime. Youth club members have been attending workshops at Ammanford Police Station to discover the harsh realities of entering the criminal justice system. The workshop begins with a scenario of arrest for shoplifting. The youngsters are taken through the whole process; they are placed in a cell, hear about being searched, CCTV, the interview, fingerprints and DNA, before being charged. They discussed the possible difficulties of getting a job and how it could affect family and friends as well as the issue of peer pressure. The workshop also gives the youngsters an insight into the career of a police officer. Amman area community youth worker Christopher Cray took Hendy Youth Club to the workshop. He said: “This was a real eye opener for the youngsters. They learnt how the system works and what would happen to them if they committed an offence. Experiences like this are a great way of encouraging young people to think before they act.” -www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Community NEWS | Edition 48 April - May 2009 13 Events April What ’s On May 7-10 April Lyric Farewell Film Finale The Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen Contact: 0845 2263510 4- 19 April Easter at Dolaucothi National Trust: Dolaucothi Gold Mines, Llanwrda Contacr: 01558 650177 10 – 13 April Easter Fun! Dinefwr Park and Castle, Llandeilo Contact: 01558 824512 10 – 13 April Easter Bank Holiday Weekend of Fun National Botanic Garden of Wales, Llanarthne, Carmarthen Contact: 01558 668768 11 April Dade Krama Ancestral Dance The Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen Contact: 0845 2263510 April 15 Blink and the Hairy Fairy Theatr Elli, Llanelli Contact: 0845 2263510 17 – 19 April Carmarthen Caravan & Motorhome Show The Showground, Nantyci, Carmarthen Contact: 01267 232141 18 April Janet Bligh Painting Day – Painting the seasons National Wetlands Centre Wales, Llanelli Contact: 01554 741087 18 April Carmarthenshire Growers Plant Fair Aberglasney Gardens, Llangathen, Carmarthenshire Contact: 01558 668998 24 April An evening with Hugh Edwards Ammanford Miners Theatre, Ammanford Contact: 0845 2263510 25 – 26 April Mediterranean Weekend National Botanic Garden of Wales, Llanarthne Contact: 01558 668768 26 April Antiques & Flea Market The Showground, Nantyci, Carmarthen Contact: 01267 232141 2 May Dawn Chorus National Wetlands Centre Wales, Llanelli Contact: 01554 471087 2 - 4 May May Walks National Trust: Dolaucothi Gold Mines, Llanwrda, Contact: 01558 650177 8 May Paul Child Calsonic Kansei Sports & Social Club, Llanelli Contact: 01554 777232 8,15,22,29 May May Ffilm Ffest 09 Ffilm Ffest mis Mai Ammanford Miners Theatre, Ammanford Contact: 0845 2263510 12 – 23 May ‘Ty Hafen’ Dragon Quilt Carmarthen Library, Carmarthen Contact: 01267 224822 16 May Stradey Castle Gardens – Open Garden Stradey Castle Gardens, Llanelli Contact: 01970 621200 23 May Duckling Day National Wetlands Centre Wales, Llwynhendy, Llanelli Contact: 01554 741087 Lots of dates for your diary HERE’S a chance to diary mark those events that appeal to you occurring all over the county in the next few months. From snooker tournaments to triathlons and street markets to country walks it is all happening county wide. First a series of council sponsored arts and craft street markets will take place in Guildhall Square, Carmarthen, on April 11 when the best of the county’s vibrant art scene will show off their products. It returns on May 9. On three days from April 23-25 there is a council supported Italian Street Market in Carmarthen Town Centre. The Antique and Flea Market organised by Towy Events is at the United Counties Showground, Carmarthen on April 26 and the Carmarthen Antiques Fair from May 30-31. A big fluffy hit with the children is the council sponsored Teddy Bear’s Picnic which this year is in Llanelli town centre Spring Gardens on May 22. There is a food festival at the National Botanical Garden of Wales May 2-3 a triathlon on Llanelli North Dock on May 17 and the festival of walks runs May 23-25. TRINITY your community university You are invited to join us to celebrate our university status and Carmarthen’s status as a university town. Civic Service in St Peter’s Church 2 May 2009 2.30pm There will be a University Procession through the town before the service. Contact the Principal’s Office for tickets - 01267 676701. Celebration Concert - 28 June 2009 The performance of a specially commissioned work by Karl Jenkins on the theme of the Black Book of Carmarthen as part of the Trinity Arts Festival (1-28 June). Performed by: Côr CFI • Côr Godre’r Garth • Côr y Drindod Soloists and The Chamber Orchestra of Wales Other works to be performed include Carmina Burana Tickets: £20, £15, £12.50, £10 - 01267 676686 24 April, 7.30pm Murder Mystery Evening Dinefwr Park and Castle, Llandeilo Contact: 01558 824512 Trinity Awards Applications are invited for the Trinity Community Awards in recognition of individuals who have made a significant contribution to their community or voluntary initiative in the counties of Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion. Closing date: 24 April 2009. Please contact the Principal’s Office 01267 676701 or www.trinity-cm.ac.uk Mae’r llwyddiant yn parhau… y Drindod amdani! The success continues… it’s got to be Trinity! For the latest information on events and activities at locations across Carmarthenshire including visit www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk/leisure The events were correct at time of print. Please contact event before attending 14 Community NEWS | Edition 48 April - May 2009 www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Health New DVD Programme will help keep workforce healthy A major risk assessment programme aimed at reducing morbidity and mortality in Carmarthenshire has been launched. Prosiect Sir Gar will see workers over the age of 40 from the county’s three biggest employers assessed for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. The long-term programme, the first of its kind in Wales, will run over 10 years. It is targeted at those most at risk, and aims to reduce the impact on individuals’ health and on NHS resources. It will provide a unique opportunity to improve the lives of working people in Carmarthenshire where the current increase in obesity is predicted to cause a rise of the number of people with diabetes from 8,500 to 14,000 over the next 20 years. Early detection of diabetes and other cardiovascular risk factor control could reduce the risk of developing diabetic complications by up to 50 per cent. Dr Meurig Williams, clinical lead for the programme, said: “I have spent 30 years as a doctor seeing first hand the consequences of these devastating diseases. The frustrating thing is that I only see these people in the late stages of the disease. Hywel Dda NHS Trust is developing a professional training DVD that will ensure staff in Accident and Emergency Departments and GP Out-ofHours services can fully meet the needs of mental health patients. The DVD, which is thought to be the first of its kind in Wales, is being developed by the Unscheduled Care Project for the Mental Health Division, working in conjunction with Cwmni Teledu Telesgop. It aims to ensure the same standard of urgent assessment and treatment is provided for mental health care as is expected for physical health care and to ensure all patients presenting as urgent or in an emergency are screened and discussed with the Mental Health Practitioner on-call. The DVD will also aim to ensure that Trust staff feel equipped to make use of the screening assessment tool and understand the referral pathway. Project Manager Bleddyn Lewis explained: “The DVD will give practical examples to staff on a range of ‘real-life’ scenarios and will also set the standards that should be met. A great deal of feedback from patients has helped informed the development of the DVD and ultimately its use should improve the patient experience of unscheduled care.” The DVD will be launched on May 7. Did you know? It is Mental Health Action Week between 12 and 18 April – visit www.mentalhealth.org.uk for information and support. Pic: Pictured at the launch of Prosiect Sir Gar are members of the project team. Back row, from left, Dr Sally Jones (regional medical officer for Corus); Dr Michael Thomas (NPHS); Professor Rhys Williams (Swansea University); Rhian Dawson (LHB); Beth Cousins (NPHS); Dr Terry Davies (LHB); Lina Izzit (Hywel Dda NHS Trust). Front row, Dr Meurig Williams (Hywel Dda NHS Trust); Kerry Morgan (project manager) and Cllr Pat Jones (Carmarthenshire County Council Executive Board Member for Health and Social Care). Now we are actually identifying people through lifestyle risk factors. The great thing about this is that these lifestyle risks can be reduced.” Prosiect Sir Gâr is a partnership between Carmarthenshire County Council, Carmarthenshire Local Health Board, Corus, Hywel Dda NHS Trust, Swansea University’s School of Medicine, the National Public Health Service and Voluntary organisations. Voluntary assessments will start at Corus in the Spring, before being rolled out across the other organisations. Staff will be contacted directly by occupational health teams. Those identified as having a high risk of developing both diabetes and vascular disease will be offered personalised advice and treatment. For further information contact Project Manager Kerry Morgan on (01267) 227878 or email kerry.morgan@carmarthen.wales .nhs.uk Wasted medicine costing the NHS Wasted medication is costing the NHS approximately £580,000 per year in Carmarthenshire - money which could pay for 242 more hip replacements; 1,609 more cataract operations; 244 more knee replacements or 30 more community nurses. In a bid to save money for frontline services, Carmarthenshire Local Health Board has joined forces with Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire Local Health Boards, GPs and pharmacists, to raise awareness of the issue. Pictured at the waste medicine campaign launch at Tesco, Carmarthen are from left People with repeat prescriptions are being reminded to only order what to right: Carmarthenshier LHB Pharmacy Contracts Manager Angela Evans, they need - once medicines have been dispensed they cannot be recycled Carmarthenshire LHB Chairman Ken Jones, and Tesco Pharmacy Manager Liz Heath. and have to be thrown away, whether they have been used or not. Posters and leaflets are available at GP surgeries and pharmacies as part Patients are also encouraged to have regular reviews of their medicines of the campaign and inserts are being put into prescription bags. Anyone with their pharmacist or prescribing doctor. Chairman of Carmarthenshire Local Health Board Ken Jones said: with unwanted medicines can return them to their local pharmacy or “Wasted medicine means wasted money. If we could save some of that dispensing practice where they will be disposed of safely. money we could reinvest it in other areas of healthcare.” Would you like to sponsor the Community News Health page? For further details contact 01267 224654 or email DMHockenhull@carmarthenshire.gov.uk www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Toot-Toot! Leisure Sport and TwT-TwT! ˆ ˆ Community NEWS | Edition 48 April - May 2009 15 News In Brief A hidden gem of a trail running from Burry Port to Kidwelly is being rediscovered. The Burry Port Gwendraeth Valley railway line that runs from Burry Port Harbour behind homes in Ashburnham Road, Pembrey, has been receiving a makeover thanks to an Assembly Government Tidy Towns grant of £50,000. Plans include a bridleway, cyclepath and footpath along the historical trail. Progressively opened between 1859 and 1891 the railway line was hailed as the El Dorado hope of the day ran along part of the ancient Thomas Kymer Canal to transport the community’s black gold, coal. The build up of silts, undergrowth and trees on the old line made it impassable in recent years. County executive board member for regeneration and leisure services Clive Scourfield said: “These are very exciting plans which will bring this historic trail back into use for the benefit of the communities and visitors.” Stay safe in the sun Visitors to Carmarthenshire’s beaches are being urged to stay safe in and out of the water this summer. Check out the beach when you arrive, beware of rocks, piers, groynes and breakwaters, be aware of any currents and tide times, swim with a friend – make sure there are people around in case you need help. Take extra care with inflatables, look at the safety signs and information boards, where there are red and yellow flags swim between them, where there are lifeguards ask for advice and swim where they are on patrol, never swim where a sign says not to or when a red flag is flying. Parents should also take care to protect their children from the effects of the sun. Always use waterproof sunscreen (factor 15+) when children are swimming. Reapply after towelling. TOOT-TOOT - more than 6,000 people are expected to clamour for Gwili Railway Thomas the Tank engine seats over the Easter Bank Holiday. The Gwili Railway Easter season opener, which runs from April 1013, has always been one of Carmarthenshire’s early season star attractions. County tourism and marketing manager Huw Parsons: “It is a huge draw for families with young children. Grown-ups too get a huge thrill from the step back in time travelling on a steam railway up wooded valleys bringing the magic of the Rev W.V. Awrdy’s railway series of books to life.” The county council has grant funded the Gwili Railway which has been running for more than 30 years. Master Controller and business administrator of Gwili Railway is retired police officer Jeremy John. He says as well as Easter they will be running Thomas the Tank and other engines with Express Coaches filled with happy familes to the Island of Sodar on the May holidays 3-4 and 24-28. And there’s a free shuttle bus service from the United Counties Showground. Tickets allow unlimited travel for all days on the trains and entertainment is free. The first train runs from Bronwydd Arms at 3.50pm and the last train pulled by Thomas leaves the Island of Sodar at 4.10pm. Have fun, learn something new, at a youth club near you... YOUTH Clubs in Carmarthenshire are open to all young people aged 11-25. They are places where you can go to meet your friends, make new ones and try new activities. In Carmarthenshire, we work to ensure that youth clubs provide a wide range of opportunities and experiences aimed at broadening personal, emotional and social development. Youth Clubs give you the opportunity to: * Take part in activities such as arts, crafts and outdoor pursuits * Get involved in community projects * Have personal support on issues affecting your lives * Organise and take part in trips and residentials * Learn new skills and tackle issues * Use your right to participate in decision making To find out where your nearest youth club is, email: info@carmarthenshire.gov.uk or contact 01267 224007. Fun starts early in our indoor training centre. Meet the players and Cochyn the mascot before watching the big match thrills of live rugby at Parc Y Scarlets. With stand prices from as little as £16 for adults and £5 for children it’s a great value family day out. Call now on 0871 871 8088 or visit www.scarlets.co.uk Enjoy Parc y Scarlets! a great family day out at 16 Community NEWS | Edition 48 April - May 2009 www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Jobs Application forms available from : 01267 234567 or email direct@carmarthenshire.gov.uk Chief Executive’s Department - Customer Focus and Policy Customer Agent £16,991 - £18,937 (Scale 4) pro rata for part-time Full Time 37 hours per week - Ref: EXC 010/06 Part-Time 25 hours per week - Ref: EXC 013/06 Seasonal/Relief – Ref: EXC 999/06 Carmarthenshire Citizens' Panel Full time, part-time and seasonal / relief vacancies have arisen within Carmarthenshire Direct. We are seeking to appoint appropriately experienced and highly motivated individuals who will deal with customers, principally over the telephone, but be part of a wider team also dealing with electronic and face to face contacts. You should possess highly developed communication and interpersonal skills and an excellent understanding of the principles of customer care. You must also have experience in direct contact with customers either on a face-to-face basis or via the telephone, and possess good IT skills. The ability to communicate effectively with customers through the medium of spoken Welsh and English is essential. Successful applicants will be based in Llandeilo but will be required to work or undertake training at other locations from time to time. Current hours of operation are 8.30 a.m. - 6.00 p.m Monday to Friday, and working hours will be between these times, but there is a likelihood of extending opening hours in the future. "Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interview as and when vacancies arise" The Carmarthenshire Citizens' Panel is an exciting consultation initiative developed in partnership by Carmarthenshire County Council, Dyfed-Powys Police and Carmarthenshire Local Health Board. It is a representative group of approximately 1,000 Carmarthenshire people who have agreed to offer their views and opinions on services that affect them. The identity of panel members and all information collected will be kept entirely confidential under the Data Protection Act. The results of our questionnaires will be used by the partner organisations to influence and shape future policies and develop services. After each consultation exercise, members will receive a newsletter detailing the results of the previous consultation and how each organisation intends to respond. Interested in becoming a member? Membership is refreshed each year to avoid the panel becoming unrepresentative over time and to give as many people as possible the opportunity to take part. To become a member, please complete the following form and return to the freepost address FREEPOST RLUY-BKUL-BYUS Carmarthenshire Citizens' Panel, c/o Corporate Services, DyfedPowys Police Headquarters, PO Box 99, Llangunnor, Carmarthen SA31 2PF For an informal discussion, please contact Eifion Davies on 01558 825349 (Ext. 3349) Closing Date : 1st June, 2009. Education and Children’s Services Department Children’s Services - Family and Community Team Family Support Workers 16 hours per week minimum £6.75 per hour Ref.: SFA 300/03 We have vacancies in the Family and Community Team for people who enjoy working with families and children, and have proven experience. After a period of induction training you will be working in families homes, with the objective of improving parents’ skills in looking after their children. The families will be engaged with the social work teams in Children’s Services. You need to be willing to work on a flexible basis, receive ongoing training and work on your own in the community. Ability to drive, and being a car owner and driver is essential. We endeavour to ensure you feel part of a team and have a regular monthly meeting on Fridays to catch up with events, allocate new work and plan training etc. Title: Name: Surname: Address: Post code: Contact no.: Email address: Date of birth: Gender: Our co-ordinators would be very happy to talk to you about the challenges and opportunities that the work presents, contact Lorna Wallace and Anne Francis on 01554 745150. A criminal record disclosure will be requested for this post. Closing Date : 23rd April, 2009. In which language would you prefer to receive panel questionnaires?: Eng/Welsh For more information about working for the council please go to: www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk In which format would you prefer to receive your panel questionnaires?: Post/Email/Large print/other