Robert Lloyd - a Sir Gar Blog of random news . . . and some Clecs!

A new modern integrated health centre in Milford Haven is set to open in October. The new £3million facility will replace the current GP surgery buildings of Barlow House and Robert Street. The two practices will work collaboratively but retain their separate identities. They will move into the Manchester Square Health Centre, in a single purpose-built integrated primary care centre. The building, will also accommodate various health services including a base for district nurses, midwives and health visitors. An independent pharmacy is also located within the new facility. It has been designed to allow for future growth in the coming months and years by providing additional clinical space which will allow for the potential future development of primary and community based health services. It also provides a base for community service staff which are currently working over split sites and it addresses a number of access issues for patients including improved car parking and improvements...

A free seven week, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Self Management for Life programme will start in Albany Court, Haverfordwest on Wednesday 10 October and in Aberystwyth Fire Station on Monday 5 November. Also free, a six week Chronic Disease Self Management Programme for anyone living with a long term health problem starts on Friday 12 October at Ammanford Town Hall and on Thursday 8 November at Aberystwyth Fire Station. Run by Education Programmes for Patients (EPP) Cymru, these courses aim to give individuals the confidence to take more responsibility and confidence to self manage their health, while encouraging them to work collaboratively with health and social care professionals. EPP Cymru courses are aimed at a wide range of individuals, reflecting diversity in terms of different health conditions, geographical locations and ethnicity. Participants can also choose to study for learning credits with Agored Cymru at level 1. The courses will focus on a number of top...

People in the Amman and Gwendraeth Valley are being urged to attend the latest Meet the Health Board event at Pontyberem to find out more about Your Health Your Future – Consulting Our Communities. The drop-in event is held between 2pm and 7.30pm in Pontyberem Memorial Hall on Tuesday October 9 and is part of a wider programme of events in each locality. They have been organised by Hywel Dda Health Board so that members of the public can find out more about their proposals to improve health services in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire. The aim is to provide the highest quality healthcare in the most appropriate setting, as close to home as possible, at the time it is needed and with improved outcomes for patients. Senior health board staff will be in attendance at the events in order to have one-to-one discussions with people. There will also be a number of stands with information on local healthcare services. Chief Executive Trevor Purt said: “We have held public meetings...

There are still some places left on the Welsh Historic Gardens study day at Aberglasney House and Gardens in the Tywi Valley on the 20th October. The cost for non- members is £25, which includes lunch and entry into Aberglasney. It should be an interesting programme of talks, aimed at anyone with an interest in gardens, and their past. In the afternoon there will be a guided walk around Aberglasney. This will be the launch of the Carmarthenshire branch of the Welsh Historic Gardens Trust, and is open to all members of WHGT and non-members alike. Please send bookings to Judith Holland at j.holland@dyfedarchaeology.org.uk

A first-of-its-kind Academy for young entrepreneurs is to be officially launched in Swansea. The Entrepreneurship Academy Wales will be launched in the presence of Edwina Hart AM on 8 October at the Innovation Foundry (Dylan Thomas Centre.) The free, one year programme leads to a BTEC qualification in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship and is open to aspiring young business leaders aged between 16 and 19. The Academy is endorsed by local entrepreneur and ‘Secret Millionaire’ Kevin Green (pictured above), with further sponsorship support from Euros Jones-Evans (Telesgop), Admiral Insurance, Clive Murphy (Trojan Electronics), Andrew Downie (Netbop), Dave Kieft (RDM Electrical.) A number of other businesses are also getting ready to sign up to sponsor these aspiring entrepreneurs of the future.  “We are passionate about inspiring the next generation of young entrepreneurs from across Wales and are delighted to work alongside our partners to develop the talents of these exceptional ...

A new agreement signed by seven organisations across three counties is demonstrating West Wales’ commitment to working differently with the third sector. In September 2011, Hywel Dda Health Board, the three Local Authorities and three County Vouluntary Councils (CVCs), delivered Wales’ first health and social care ‘co-design framework’, a comprehensive report called A Co-designed Future: The Third Sector Role in Health and Social Care in Hywel Dda. The report recognised the contribution of the third sector in the delivery of services that support patients and carers, marking a new strategic direction for joint work with the third sector in supporting health, social care and wellbeing. As part of the report, a number of recommendations were made, including the development of a tripartite (health, local authority and third sector) Compact Agreement across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire. This Compact Agreement has now been signed by the Chief Executives of Hywel Dda Health...

Hywel Dda Health Board has welcomed AMs Darren Millar and Paul Davies for a visit to Withybush Hospital. Chairman Chris Martin, Hospital Director Iain Robertson-Steel and Acute Services Manager Mandy Davies accompanied Mr Millar and Mr Davies on their visit. They were given a tour of the state-of-the-art Accident and Emergency Unit and update of the progress of the new renal unit development which is due for completion in 2014. He visited women’s and children’s service and had a chance to talk with the county’s consultant paediatrician. Chairman Chris Martin said: “We were happy to be able to give Mr Millar and Mr Davies this chance to visit Withybush Hospital and meet with staff. “We had an open and honest discussion regarding the future of services at the hospital and reassured them that Withybush Hospital is very much a major healthcare provider in the future plans for Hywel Dda Health Board. “We acknowledge their concerns regarding the Special Care Baby Unit at the hospital and t...

Hywel Dda Health Board | Update on investigations into E. coli O157 outbreak Public Health Wales and colleagues in three local authorities and the Health Protection Agency are continuing to investigate an outbreak of E. coli O157 possibly linked to a petting farm in Brecon. The results of microbiological tests have shown that two children confirmed with E. coli O157 have the same type of infection – meaning that they must have acquired their illness from the same source. Both children had visited Cantref Adventure Farm in the days before they became unwell, and both are recovering at home.

Wales Touch Association (WTA) are holding their flagship annual beach tournament on Pendine Sands, Carmarthenshire from Friday 28th to Sunday 30th September 2012. The beach is historically revered for its land speed record attempts but this is a completely different ball game – without a ball! Touch Rugby (usually known simply as Touch) is based on the full contact Rugby League/Union but is a recognised sport in its own right. It is widely popular in the southern hemisphere and is becoming increasingly popular in Wales with leagues and teams in Cardiff, Swansea, Llanelli, Bridgend, RCT and Wrexham among others. For the first time, the Pendine tournament will be delivered in conjunction with Cyffwrdd Gorllewin Gwyllt (Wild West Touch) formed earlier in 2012 in order to promote Touch in West Wales. Gorllewin Gwyllt Director, Matthew Adams said: “I'm really looking forward to being part of the Pendine tournament, having heard great things about it over the last 10 years. We're ho...

Llandeilo’s Got Talent is returning following the success of last year’s Talent Search. The Festival of Senses Committee intends to repeat the quest to seek out the best talent that the town and surrounding area has to offer. Always seeking to bring a new element to the annual Festival of the Senses, last year the committee advertised and hosted Llandeilo’s Got Talent and auditioned 12 acts. Four winners were selected, Menna Priestland Jones, Carys Jones, Shelley Thomas and the unique girl-band ‘Sticky Vinyl.’ The winning acts performed on the main stage of the Festival in King’s Street on the Saturday evening in front of huge crowds, before receiving their cash prizes. The search for further talented vocalist / musicians is now underway once more. Posters are now appearing around the town inviting locals to enter this year’s Llandeilo’s Got Talent by firstly emailing to register their interests and to explain the nature of the act. Auditionees will receive a prompt email response w...

The Lyric Theatre in Carmarthen which has recently had a £1.5 million refurbishment is hosting a ‘Kill for a Seat’ comedy night. Headlining this month is comedian Ian Cognito, who has appeared on many comedy stages over the years including Glastonbury. Phil Daoust from The Guardian described Cognito as, “Putting them all in the shade. If you want to know what’s wrong with New Britain, he’s going to tell you. And if you don’t, you’d better keep your mouth shut. Just stunning.” The comedy night takes place on October 12 and tickets are £8 per person. Support comes from Chris Brooker and the MC for the night is Ben Van Der Velde. Guests must be aged 16 or over to gain entry. Carmarthenshire County Council helps promote local businesses and attractions in the county. For more information visit www.discovercarmarthenshire.com

Carmarthenshire has been awarded £1.9million by the Welsh Government for achieving improvements to services. They include the Carmarthenshire Homes Standard programme; public rights of way; Llanelli Library refurbishment; and the Healthy Schools initiative. The money is given through the Outcome Agreements between the Welsh Government and all councils in Wales. They focus on local government service improvement and are designed to link in with the Welsh Government’s priorities, using a grant as a central lever for improvement. The grant, known as the Outcome Agreement Grant (OAG), is paid to the council according to the level of improvement they achieve and the outcomes they deliver. Carmarthenshire County Council was one of the first in Wales to be awarded the maximum grant of £1.923million for its performance. Local Government and Communities Minister Carl Sargeant said “I congratulate Carmarthenshire on their improvement performance. This demonstrates their strong commitment t...

A man has been prosecuted by Carmarthenshire County Council for illegally carrying scrap metal. Matthew Jones, aged 29, of Castle Quarry, Long Mains, Monkton, Pembrokeshire, pleaded guilty to two offences contrary to Section 34 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 for failing to provide waste transfer notes at Carmarthen Magistrates Court. The court heard that Jones was stopped by police and council environmental enforcement officers in Cross Hands as part of a multi-agency operation targeting scrap metal dealers in Carmarthenshire on two separate occasions. On both occasions he failed to provide waste transfer notes for the scrap he was carrying, as required by law. Jones was fined £180 for each offence and ordered to pay £227.98 prosecution costs and a £15 victim surcharge. The council is working closely with the police, through the Community Safety Partnership, as part of a joint operation targeting the unauthorised movement of scrap metal and other waste in Carmarthenshire. Exe...

A company catering for French, Belgian and Swiss tourists is coming to Carmarthen to see what the county has to offer. Herve Rouxel of Sligo-based Alainn Tours will visit Carmarthenshire next month as part of a trip to Wales organised by Visit Wales. Alainn Tours has a target market of France, Belgium and Switzerland. The firm currently offer tours to individuals and groups from these markets to Ireland and Scotland but is now keen to include Wales in 2013. Their packages include car hire and accommodation. Mr Rouxel will be visiting Laugharne, Llandeilo and Llandovery during his time in Wales. Carmarthenshire County Council marketing and tourism development officer Sarah Owen said: “Mr Rouxel wants to see what Carmarthenshire and Wales has to offer. He plans to undertake research by driving around, taking notes, meeting people, visiting accommodation and taking pictures.” Council executive board member for regeneration and leisure Cllr Meryl Gravell said: “I’m delighted. Mr Roux...

Councillors Jim Jones and John Jenkins have been out on patrol with environmental enforcement officers in Llanelli town centre. Cllr Jones, who is the county council’s Executive Board Member for Environmental and Public Protection, is going out on patrol with officers across the county to experience first-hand they are dealing with on a daily basis. He was joined in Llanelli town centre by Elli Ward member Cllr John Jenkins. Cllr Jones said: “Overall the town centre was very clean, the council’s cleansing team are doing a great job, the sweeper is employed daily and there are litter-pickers on hand throughout the day. “Unfortunately there were a few private properties or businesses where there were some problems. The council cannot clean up any rubbish on private property but we have spoken to some individuals about the storage of their waste and if they fail to take action they could get fined in the future.” Anyone caught dropping litter in the town can also get fined. Environme...

South Wales millionaire and entrepreneur Kevin Green was a hit at the big Introbiz business show at Cardiff City Stadium yesterday. Kevin was the keynote speaker at the event. Among the many people he met was Gwenno Dafydd, the broadcaster and leadership coach. See picture . . .   Gwenno said: " He (Kevin) was very generous with his time and his advice to everyone and seemed very approachable and genuine." Meanwhile, Gwenno will be on Jason Mohammed's new programme on BBC Radio Wales today from 11.00 to 11.30 today. Gwenno's CV is pretty extensive. Some highlights - GWENNO DAFYDD WILLIAMS MSc Econ, (Social Sciences) Cert. Ed. (Drama & Welsh), ILM Accredited Stage 1 and 2 Coach (Level 7 ILM Equivalent) is a multilingual business coach, trainer and mentor with expertise in Public Speaking, delivering positive presentations, motivational speaking, confidence building, motivation, role model, assertiveness, stress management, Equality & Diversity, Human Reso...

Welsh Government Minister Leighton Andrews has approved plans for £68 million investment in schools in the Dinefwr area. The project will create three new schools and provide major investment in Amman Valley School. The proposals for the Transformation of Secondary Education in the Dinewfr area include the establishment of two new secondary schools instead of the current four schools at Pantycelyn, Tre-Gib, Maes Yr Yrfa and Gwendraeth. A new secondary school will be built in the Tywi Valley to replace Pantycelyn and Tregib. It is proposed to reorganise the schools from September 2013. Regarding the plans for both Pantycelyn and Tregib, and Maes yr Yrfa and Gwendraeth, the Minister said he had carefully considered the proposals, the statutory objections, Carmarthenshire County Council’s comments and supporting evidence, and education regulations, in reaching his decision. The Minister was satisfied that the proposals were consistent with policy, offered at least the equivalent quality ...

Former Betws NUM Lodge and South Wales area chairman, County Councillor Anthony Wyn Jones has been elected to the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme Trustee Board. He fought off competition from three other candidates from England to become the first pensioner representative from South Wales for the Central and Southern England and South Wales Constituency. Delighted with result Cllr Jones from Maesllwyn, Bonllwyn, Ammanford, said he was both honoured and proud to have received the continued loyalty and faith of the South Wales NUM and those scheme members. He said: “I vow to represent members to the best of my ability for the faith they have shown in me." “I believe there is still much work to do to ensure that monies of the MPS are used to return better pensions and benefits to all MPS members." Cllr Jones started in the mining industry in 1980 working at the coalface and headings. He has held various posts in the industry and serves as a trustee on the Ammanford Miners’...

A Llandeilo supermarket owner has been prosecuted for ignoring an enforcement to remove unauthorised changes at his premises. Christopher Kiley, of Cks Supermarket in Rhosmaen Street, Llandeilo, was served with a planning enforcement notice for creating a new access and installing a shutter door without planning permission. The local authority said the poor design of the shutter door and entrance was harmful to the character and appearance of the adjacent conservation area. The legal notice required Mr Kiley to permanently remove the unauthorised shutter door and re-instate the opening to its former state. He did not adhere to the requests laid out in the planning enforcement notice and was summonsed to Carmarthen Magistrates Court on September 17. Kiley pleaded guilty and was fined £100, and ordered to pay £791.80 costs and a victim surcharge of £15. The council’s executive board member for environment and public protection, who has responsibility for planning enforcement, Cllr Jim Jo...

A Llanelli mum has set her sights on a rewarding career in nursing, thanks to the support of two Carmarthenshire organisations. Kelly Davies, a mother of three boys, had always dreamed of being a nurse and helping others, but did not feel she was able to pursue her ambition due to a lack of confidence and being unable to finance childcare for her children, which would enable her to access the required qualifications. But two years ago, Kelly got in touch with Genesis - a European Social Funded project which aims to improve life for families by providing support to remove barriers that prevent them from accessing training, education or employment. With the support of a dedicated advisor, Kelly was able to enrol on a course at Coleg Sir Gâr to study an Access to Health course, during which she was awarded Student of the Year. She has now progressed on to Swansea University where she is studying nursing – supported by the team at Flying Start Carmarthenshire. Flying Start - a Welsh...

Ammanford Fire Station is hosting an open day next weekend with fun and entertainment for all the family. The event is taking place on October 6 from 10am-3pm, and it is being organised by the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service. There is no entry fee and all monies raised will be donated to the Firefighters Charity, which is the UK’s provider of services aimed at enhancing the quality of life for serving and retired firefighters and their families. There will be a variety of games, activities, refreshments and demonstrations throughout the day, including a chip pan fire and community safety and road traffic collision displays. There will also be stalls selling merchandise such as Blaze Bear toys and Children’s Fire Helmets. Local firefighters and community safety staff will be on hand to chat to visitors about the fire and rescue and work in helping to keep communities safe from fire. Craig Flannery, Community Station Manager said: “This is a great opportunity to meet Ammanford...

Hurst House on the Marsh is now taking bookings for works Christmas parties throughout November and December. There is also an offer to spend three nights at the hotel for a Christmas escape. The hotel is located just outside Laugharne, a 15 minute drive from Carmarthen. They are able to organise a host of activities for guests, including arranging local experts in sea-fishing, golfing, horse-riding and cycling. The three night stay over the Christmas period includes traditional mulled wine, afternoon tea and carols with a Christmas Eve feast. December 25 involves a champagne breakfast in bed, homemade winter punch and a five course lunch, homemade mince pies and a buffet in the evening. On Boxing Day you can have tea and toast while waiting for brunch, tea and cakes served at 3pm and a finale dinner at 7.30pm. Breakfast concludes the stay on December 27. There are also New Year packages available. Carmarthenshire County Council’s tourism department helps promote local businesses a...

The Stradey Park Hotel in Llanelli will be hosting the annual Pretty in Pink fundraising event on October 18 from 7pm. The event has been organised by the ladies of Ray Gravell & Friends Charitable Trust. This year all proceeds from the evening are for the Ty Bryngwyn Hospice in Llanelli. The trust aims to raise £10,000 to donate to the hospice. There will be drinks on arrival before taking a seat in the Alexander Suite for a three course dinner. During the meal, there will be a range of fashion shows courtesy of Outfit, Nanette’s and Mossies. The tickets are £26 per person and must be booked in advance by contacting the venue. Carmarthenshire County Council helps promote local businesses and attractions in the county. For more information visit www.discovercarmarthenshire.com

The National Botanic Garden of Wales has organised a 30-week Welsh course for beginners starting on Monday October 1. The course has been organised by Swansea University and will feature on Mondays from 10am -2.30pm. The cost of the lessons is £100 (or £55 concessionary) and the price includes all course materials. You do not need to book in advance; it is possible to turn up on October 1 at 10am to join. Carmarthenshire County Council helps promote local businesses and attractions in the county. For more information visit www.discovercarmarthenshire.com

Residents of Yr Aelwyd Sheltered Housing Complex in Llangunnor will be sharing a vintage tea party with children from the local primary school and volunteers from the Retired and Senior Volunteers Programme (RSVP) on Thursday 4th October at 10am. The party guests will share stories about childhood and learn about one another’s favourite foods and games – as well as enjoying old fashioned cakes and getting involved in reminiscence and digital storytelling. The event has been organised to launch RSVP’s Welcome Friends Project. Welcome Friends will signpost older people to interests and activities in their area; in addition, where needed, volunteers will support isolated people to go out to their new activities, building confidence first through home visits (transport for short trips to activities may be possible). RSVP will also set up social activities such as reminiscence or craft groups. Project Co-ordinator for Carmarthenshire, Anne May, says “We want older people to get invol...

Two people have been fined £75 for failing to clean up after their dogs on Pendine beach. Council environmental enforcement officers were on duty in the area at the time of the offences and issued fixed penalty notices. Failure to pay could result in prosecution in the magistrates court and a fine of up to £1,000. The council has stepped up patrols in Pendine following complaints of dog fouling from the community council and in total three people have been fined this month to date. Executive Board Member for Environmental and Public Protection Cllr Jim Jones hopes these fines will help to get the message across that anyone caught not picking up after their pets will be prosecuted. He said: “Most dog owners are responsible and clean up after their dogs; however, there is a small minority who do not listen and we will not hesitate to fine them. “Pendine beach is popular with families and children and dog mess left anywhere is a serious health risk. One of the men fined was seen burying h...

The Head of School of Art at Aberystwyth University is among the arts experts who will unveil a painting today (Thursday 27 September) that many believe to be an earlier version of the Mona Lisa. Robert Meyrick has been invited to speak at the unveiling in Geneva as the world’s leading expert on Hugh Blaker who bought the painting in 1913 and is best known in Wales as picture advisor to the Davies sisters of Gregynog. The painting, known as the Isleworth Mona Lisa, would have been painted about 20 years before the famous Louvre portrait, is slightly larger and has long been the subject of debate over its authenticity. If the Isleworth Mona Lisa turns out to be authentic, this will conclude that Leonardo da Vinci painted two versions of the Mona Lisa – an earlier version and the later iconic version which hangs in the Louvre. Robert Meyrick explains, “From the outset, art collector and dealer Blaker believed that he had discovered an earlier version of the Mona Lisa, but did not...

Burry Port Town Band travelled to Cheltenham to compete against the best First Section bands in the country in the National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain. All 17 bands performed the set test piece “Vivat!”, a specially commission work from the pen of former Burry Port junior and senior band member Tom Davoren.  Having been drawn to play 16th out of the 17 bands, Burry Port had to endure a very long wait to perform, and did not take the stage until just after 8pm. However, the hanging around proved to be worth it with the band delivering a majestic performance of the piece, all the way through from the quiet, exposed opening movement “In Memoriam”, a test of nerves for even the most experienced players, to the pomp and thrills of the “Coronation” and “Jubilate” movements, with the final note drawing enthusiastic applause from the large audience.  In their general remarks, adjudicators Frank Renton and Kevin Wadsworth commented that although many bands were...

Cor Merched Tybie will host a charity concert in aid of Glaze Prostate Charity Wales on Friday 19th October at the Memorial Hall Llandybie at 7pm. Tickets on sale by members now.

Dyfed Powys Police’s newest CSOs step out on the beat | Dyfed Powys Police | Heddlu Dyfed Powys The latest group of 12 new Community Support Officers (CSOs) have joined Dyfed Powys Police and are now on the beat throughout the force area. The new CSOs are being funded by the Welsh Government, which has made funding an additional 500 CSOs across Wales one of its top five priorities. The new recruits will play a vital role in tackling anti-social behaviour and crime in communities throughout mid and west Wales.

Carmarthenshire Theatres In a nutshell: Carmarthenshire can boast three wonderful theatre venues – The Miners’ in Ammanford, The Lyric in Carmarthen and Theatr Elli (soon to be replaced with Y Ffwrnes) in Llanelli. Stars galore have walked the boards – from Ken Dodd to Go Compare tenor Wynne Evans. http://www.carmarthenshiretheatres.co.uk/ Ammanford, Carmarthen and Llanelli 0845 2263510 For more ideas of what to see in Carmarthenshire, search this blog for 'What to see in Carmarthenshire' and then tell the search to sort by date. Previous post - http://sirgarblog.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/what-to-see-in-carmarthenshire-010.html

Carmarthenshire Youth Council and Carmarthenshire County Council are inviting young people to their annual youth conference. This year the theme is ‘Let’s Talk P.S.E’ and all secondary schools and youth projects within the county are welcome to attend. Sarah Powell, Young People’s Participation Officer, said: “The purpose of this year’s conference is to gather the views and opinions of young people on the subject of P.S.E being delivered in Carmarthenshire schools. P.S.E and Citizenship is a curriculum area which is designed to give pupils the knowledge and understanding they need to lead healthy, independent lives and to become informed active and responsible citizens and the purpose of the conference is to bring young people together to share their views, ideas and experiences and highlight them to decision makers and service providers.” The conference is free, and youth groups and schools who wish to attend should arrange for four young people and a member of staff to represent the...

People who would like to skype surf and search but don’t know where to start can join a computer course at Ammanford Library. The First Click course is for absolute beginners with no computer experience. It runs for three Fridays between 10am and 12.30pm, starting on October 5. The course is taught by helpful and knowledgeable tutors who will teach participants to carry out basic computer functions by the end of the three weeks. To book a place call Ammanford library on 01269 598150.

A new group, the Carmarthen Ex-Forces Personnel and Families Support Group, will be holding monthly drop-in sessions as of Thursday September 27 to help ex-forces personnel and their families gain access to the services and support they are entitled to. They will also signpost veterans to other national associations who can advise on housing, advocacy services, pensions, benefits and mental health issues. The group is being supported by Anneline Rogers of West Wales action for Mental Health and Cath Francis of MIND. Cryfhau Cymunedau (Strengthening Communities), part of RDP Sir Gâr’s Innovative Hubs scheme, is helping to fund the meeting room for the group. Cryfhau Cymunedau is funded through the Rural Development Plan for Wales 2007 – 2013 which is funded by the Welsh Government and European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development. Project Officer David Saywell can assist community groups and individuals by arranging meetings, consultation events, awareness sessions, skills and capaci...

Llandovery townsfolk bleat about Royal jokers! (From South Wales Guardian) A storm has erupted in Llandovery over cut-outs depicting the Royal Family as a flock of sheep. Some shops are displaying the cut-outs of sheep - with faces of the Royals stuck on - to advertise Llandovery’s Sheep Festival this weekend. But former Llandovery town clerk Terry Leyman said some people felt it was in “baaaa-d taste” and revealed he had raised the matter with Trading Standards and Dyfed-Powys Police. And see this blog for more - http://carmarthenplanning.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/royal-sheep.html

Hywel Dda Health Board is committed to the Cardigan Hospital Project and providing beds in the new facility. The recent Cardigan Stakeholder Board was well attended by over 20 people representing a wide range of Stakeholders from Cardigan and the surrounding area. Hywel Dda Health Board Chief Executive Trevor Purt has previously reassured the community that the health board aims to make the Cardigan integrated health and social care development the ‘diamond in the ring’ of community investment projects. The health board aims to submit an outline business case to the Welsh Government on the project in the spring, and beds will be included as part of this. Contracts have been exchanged on the land, with negotiations ongoing regarding planning conditions. The health board is hopeful on this being completed shortly. Construction is due to commence in late 2013, with project completion in late 2015. County Director for Ceredigion Ian Bellingham said: “The health board is fully committed to...

There is still time for people to give their views on a strategy outlining how agencies will work together to support carers. Hywel Dda Health Board and the three local authorities have worked together on the draft Information and Consultation Strategy which will sets out how they will all work together to provide information to carers and include carers in the arrangements made for those they care for. The strategy highlights the importance of effective early identification and engagement of carers, increasing take-up of carers needs assessments and the wide availability of appropriate information provision on services, support and entitlements. Joint training and engagement with staff across agencies is recognised as being key to this process. The strategy outlines how health and social care staff will be engaged, the training which will be made available to them to ensure carers are identified at an early stage and ensure they have full access to support. Carers are invited to give...

Pontyberem Library is opening longer hours from this week onwards. The library will be open from 10am to 12noon on Mondays, in addition to the previous opening hours of Wednesdays between 10am and 1pm, and 4pm to 7pm. The extended opening will be for an initial period of three months until December when it will be reviewed. The additional opening hours have been agreed between Carmarthenshire County Council’s Library Service and Pontyberem Community Council following the increase in use of the existing library and strong support from the community. Pontyberem Community Council provides funding for staffing with the county council providing books, talking books, PCs and professional support. Regeneration and leisure executive board member Cllr Meryl Gravell said: “This is an excellent example of partnership working between Carmarthenshire and Pontyberem Councils with strong local community support.”

Three young people who have volunteered at Hywel Dda Health Board are off to start their medical studies. Volunteering for Health has more than 70 different roles across 59 different healthcare locations in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire. As well as benefiting the patients over 75 volunteers have gone onto further education or employment. As a patient befriender volunteer Syedah Aleena Haider supported patients and staff on the Stroke ward in Prince Philip Hospital. She also volunteered for Radio Prince Philip and a Diabetes Research Centre. She said: Through volunteering I have realised the importance of healthcare staff and the role they play for the wellbeing of patients. "I am starting Christ’s College, Cambridge form October to study Medicine. I have always wanted to pursue a career in Medicine, perhaps in research and the advancement of health sciences. The volunteering I did has provided me with some basic knowledge of how good quality healthcare and patient...

A woman has been fined after her dog fouled on the pavement outside someone’s front door and she didn’t clean it up. Council environmental enforcement officers issued a fixed penalty notice for the offence which occurred in Wellfield Road, Carmarthen. The woman told the officers that it wasn’t her dog and that she didn’t have any bags to clear up the mess. They explained that as she was in charge of the dog at that time it was her responsibility to clean it up and that it was her responsibility to carry bags. Failure to pay could lead to prosecution in the magistrates court and a fine of up to £1,000. Officers have stepped up patrols in the area following a number of complaints. Executive Board Member for Environmental and Public Protection Cllr Jim Jones said he hoped the fine would act as a warning to others. “Dog fouling is a top priority for the council and we will not hesitate to prosecute those caught breaking the law in this way,” he said. Cllr Jones is also calling on residents...

High hopes for LoCooker as launch date looms for device - Business News - Business - WalesOnline A Llanelli-based company is about to launch an energy- efficient electric cooking appliance set to revolutionise the catering industry. Clyne Energy, a company set up by Ken Board, emeritus professor at Swansea University’s school of engineering, and his son Alun secured funding to develop commercial prototypes of its LoCooker appliance which will start production later this year. The LoCooker is designed for the growing sous vide market, a technique that involves cooking food in a vacuum sealed bag placed in a water bath at below boiling point but has applications beyond in general cooking. Clyne Energy has been successful in obtaining a significant investment having secured research and development funding from the Welsh Government as well as investment from private investors.

Hywel Dda Health Board’s challenges of providing for a rural and ageing population are being reflected by Rural Health Week 2012. Organised by the Institute of Rural Health (IRH), Rural Health Week runs until September 29 and is designed to raise the profile of rural health issues locally, regionally and nationally. The focus this year is on ‘Developing Rural Resilience’ and looks at the ‘crisis and opportunity’ of changing rural populations, exploring how to maximise the benefits to communities and their older residents and highlight innovative responses to the challenges. Hywel Dda Health Board’s Your Health Your Future – Consulting our Communities outlines how currently 70% of patients in a hospital beds in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire are over aged 75 and that 80% of its hospital resources is spent on 20% of patients. The health board is currently in a 12 week consultation process outlining how it will address these and other challenges faced by the NHS. Kathryn Da...

Latest news from the Introbiz team about tomorrow's big event featuring Kevin Green - Introbiz Business Show at Cardiff City Stadium Thursday 27th September 2012 Networking breakfast 8am - 9.30am over 150 booked on already! ONLY £10 PER PERSON BREAKFAST & NETWORKING Show opens 10am - 3pm after the networking breakfast. What better way to meet new businesses and promote your company at The Introbiz Business Show. Don't miss this opportunity to meet 100s of businesses at our exciting networking breakfast. Come and meet some of Wales's most successful entrepreneurs, business owners and Welsh sporting celebrities all under one roof. Plus you will have the opportunity to put your business card into a FREE prize draw, with some fantastic prizes on offer, which will be drawn at the breakfast meeting and at lunch. Some of the prizes on offer are as follow. 1 night's stay with breakfast and dinner at Bath s 5 star Royal Crescent Hotel which is worth £500. 1 fo...

A remembrance service will be provided for anyone who has been affected by miscarriage, stillborn or neonatal death and it is not just for families who have experienced a loss recently. This first annual service will be held at St. Luke’s Chapel, Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest, on 12th October 2012 at 6.30pm. The service will include hymns, poetry, reading, music and prayer. There will be an opportunity for people to receive a remembrance card and during the service to place the cards on the altar. Tea and coffee will be provided by the WRVS after the service. Further information is available from: Sarah Horsley, Pregnancy Loss Nurse 01437 773931 Gill Llewellyn, Bereavement Officer 01437 772347

A 'Women in public life' seminar is being hosted by the Welsh Assembly's Presiding Officer, Rosemary Butler AM, at the National Waterfront Museum, Oystermouth Road, Swansea on Friday, 28 September. Programme - 12.30 Registration and lunch 12.50 Official welcome by Rosemary Butler AM, Presiding Officer of the National Assembly for Wales. Introduce some the key themes from the ‘Who runs Wales’ report produced by the Equality and Human Rights Commission focusing on the barriers to increasing women’s representation in public life. 13.00 Welcome by Elin Rhys, Managing Director of Telesgop multimedia production company and panel discussion chair. 13.05 Meet the panellists Each panel member will speak briefly about the barriers they have faced in their careers and what they feel should be done to help break down these barriers. Panel: Elizabeth Aitken , Assistant Chief Officer / Director of Resources / Treasurer of the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service Racha...

This Healthy Wednesday make sure you don’t have an unexpected surprise. It is World Contraception Day (WCD) today which aims to improve awareness of contraception to enable young people to make informed decisions on sexual and reproductive health. Contraception allows people to choose when and if they want to have a baby. There are several types of contraception, which work in different ways. Most contraceptives are designed for use by women. However, the male condom remains a popular choice and this also protects you from most sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diseases passed on from one person to another through unprotected sex. Contraception is normally supplied by your doctor or by the family planning clinic. Many sexual health or GUM (genito-urinary medicine) clinics offer contraception, including emergency contraception. Emergency contraception is also available from your GP, family planning clinics and some pharmacies. You can buy male and female condoms from chemists, ...

Latest news from Aberglasney House and Gardens in the Tywi Valley -  October 1st - March 31st Aberglasney’s winter opening times will be as follows: 10:30am to 4pm (with last entry at 3pm) The Gardeners Cafe will also be open 10:30am to 4pm (with last orders at 3:30pm) 6th October – Specialist Plant Sales by Visiting Nurseries This will be our last plant sale of the season and will be held in Aberglasney’s car park. Your last chance to find that perfect plant! Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd December- Aberglasney’s Winter Fair - Christmas Gifts, Crafts, Decorations, Fine Food & Wine Marquee and Entertainment. Open from 9.30am to 4.30pm on both days. Normal garden admission prices apply, (to include a complimentary glass of Mulled Wine & Mince Pie).

Hywel Dda Health Board welcomes Teresa Owen as the Director of Public Health, who took up the role earlier this month. Teresa will provide public health leadership across the Hywel Dda Health Board area with a particular focus on tackling health inequalities. She said: “I'm excited about coming back to Wales to work. I look forward to helping the Board focus on improving the health and wellbeing outcomes for the people living in the Hywel Dda Health Board area.” Teresa blends experience from both Welsh and English health services, having undertaken her Public Health training in North Wales before working as a Consultant in Public Health in England. Teresa formerly worked as Deputy Director for Public Health with NHS Wirral and worked across all the domains of public health. Prior to re-training in Public Health, Teresa was a Professional Adviser for Health Professions Wales and, before that, was a Chief Dietitian with Conwy and Denbighshire NHS Trust. She is a fluent Welsh speak...

‘The Business Brief’ is the column from QualitySolictors Redkite in the Carmarthen Journal. Dymphna Powell, Associate with QualitySolictors Redkite puts the spotlight on an important issue for landlords . . . Novice landlords often make the mistake of assuming they will obtain vacant possession of a rented property immediately upon expiry of the fixed term of a tenancy. However, if a landlord re-enters a rented property to resume control with the tenant still in occupation, the landlord could potentially be sued by the tenant for damages for unlawful eviction (notwithstanding that the tenancy term has ended). A landlord who wishes to obtain vacant possession of rented accommodation at the end of a fixed term Tenancy Agreement, can do so by serving the appropriate Notice in the fourth month of the tenancy, coinciding to end on the last day of a fixed term of the Tenancy. The Notice must be in the prescribed format and be compliant with legislation and common law. At the end o...

A leading environmental charity has called on First Minister Carwyn Jones to boycott the opening of Pembroke power station this week. Friends of the Earth Cymru told Mr Jones that the power station has caused ‘considerable controversy’. Gareth Clubb, Director of Friends of the Earth Cymru, said: “Many people would disagree with the First Minister attending a fossil fuel celebration of such controversy. “This power station uses outdated technology to pollute Milford Haven in a manner that the Countryside Council for Wales found to be unacceptable. But it was still approved by Westminster. Clearly, the ability for us in Wales to make our own decisions on power stations must be devolved. “At a time when runaway climate change is melting the arctic ice faster than any time in recorded history, now is not the time to be building new fossil fuel power stations. “If we’re going to get a grip on climate change and generate green jobs that will give our children hope for a better futu...

Carmarthenshire’s Executive Board is hitting the road again and meeting in other locations for the first time in its history. On October 1, the board will meet at the Princess Gwenllian Centre in Kidwelly, and future meetings are arranged for Llandeilo, Whitland and Burry Port. Council Leader Kevin Madge has introduced the initiative with the aim of making the Executive Board more accessible to the public. He also wants to meet town and community councils in their own areas and take the opportunity to visit local businesses or schools. On each occasion, local groups and organisations will be invited along after the meeting to discuss their issues. The executive board started the move in Ammanford where representatives from the six Amman Valley town and community councils attended. Cllr Madge said: “I want to take the Executive Board meetings around the county and to work more closely with town and community councils. “It is important that we work with town and community councils and ot...

A new Consultant Trauma and Orthopeadic Surgeon has been recruited at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest. Dylan Jewell (MB BS, BSc, MSc, MRCSEd, MRCS, FRCS (Tr & Orth)), who has a special interest in Lower Limb and Arthroplasy (joint replacement), will start his role at Withybush Hospital early next year. Mr Jewell graduated from United Medical and Dental School of Guy's and St Thomas's Hospital in 1998 before completing Specialist Registrar Training on West Midlands Higher Training in Orthopaedics, and is now completing a Knee Fellowship in Derby Hospital. He has a BSc in Radiological Services where he was introduced to navigated surgery and completed a Clinical Manager Leadership Course at Keele University. He also spent 13 months in Regional Trauma Centre Queen Elizabeth Hospital Selly Oak to gain experience in complex trauma from A & E to discharge. Hospital Director Iain Robertson-Steel said: “Whatever the outcome of the current Your Health Your Future Consulting Ou...