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

Stop Smoking Wales, the free NHS smoking cessation support service, is looking for families and individuals to share how their lives have been affected by a life threatening or life limiting illness caused by smoking. A high profile marketing campaign, which will run from 8 September on TV, radio and print, will encourage some of the 21 per cent of smokers in Wales to quit with support from Stop Smoking Wales. Dr Julie Bishop, Consultant in Public Health for Public Health Wales, is leading the campaign. She said: “Research shows that one in every two smokers will die of a smoking related disease if they don’t quit. Sadly, most smokers underestimate this risk and don’t realise the harm they are doing to their life expectancy by smoking. “We know that one of the most powerful ways to motivate people to quit smoking is by hearing other people’s stories of the dangers of smoking and the devastating effects a smoking-related illness can have.” If you or your family would like to be involve...

Pembrey Country Park is becoming a hot spot for film location seekers. In the last two years the park and Cefn Sidan Sands has doubled for Morocco; Florida, Germany, Transylvania and even a Martian landscape for film makers. The latest was a visit from the team behind the historical fantasy Da Vinci’s Demons who have been filming some of their more exciting scenes for its third series at the park. The US and UK blockbuster series that is set in Renaissance Italy, has been filmed in the Swansea, Neath and Port Talbot areas, but the location scouting team found just what they needed in the forested dunescape of the park to recreate some of their chilling battle scenes. The third series which will air in Spring 2015 stars Tom Rileys, Laura Haddock, Elliot Cowan, Gregg Chillin and Blake Ritson with Breaking Bad’s John Shiban joining as executive producer and showrunner. The series follows the 'untold' story of one the world's greatest geniuses, Leonardo da Vinci, during his ...

Hywel Dda Health Charities is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural three counties charity golf tournament. Golf clubs across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire will be holding qualifying rounds throughout September with a grand final being held at the prestigious 100 year old Ashburnham Golf Club, Burry Port, on Friday 10 October 2014. There will be 10 golf clubs participating in the qualifying rounds Ashburnham, Aberystwyth, Cardigan, Carmarthen, Glyn Abbey, Garnant Park, Glynhir, Milford Haven, Newport Links and Tenby. Former Wales wing Shane Williams, pictured at the launch of the tournament at Garnant Park Golf Club, is pleased to be supporting the events. He said: “Most people don’t know that hospital charities exist let alone the importance of the work they do. The NHS in Wales can only provide a limited amount of resources and this is where hospital charities come in. Hywel Dda Health Charities doesn’t replace NHS funding but uses donations received fr...

A pilot pharmacy service, believed to be the first of its kind in Wales, has helped ease pressure on the NHS. Severe sunburn, insect and jellyfish stings are just a few of the ailments already been treated by the new Triage and Treat service in Tenby and Saundersfoot. So far 21 people have been seen by this new service 15 of which were visitors and six were local residents. If this service had not been available 13 said they would have presented at a local medical practice, and five would have gone to A&E. The Triage and Treat service is being offered in specific community pharmacies to help you if you have had a low level injury. The service is being provided by a pharmacist or a member of the pharmacy team who has had special training. They will assess your injury or symptom and make a decision as to whether they can ‘treat’ you there or if you need to seek treatment from another healthcare professional. If the injury is too serious to be treated in the pharmacy you will be giv...

A Llanelli café owner has lost her appeal against fly-posting offences. Tracy Webb, aged 33, who runs Whispers Cafe in Swansea Road, was fined a total of £700 after being convicted of five separate offences under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. As well as being fined £140 for each offence, she was ordered to pay prosecution costs of £2,158 following a trial at Carmarthen Magistrates Court. Webb appealed and the case was heard at Swansea Crown Court where it was dismissed and she was ordered to pay further prosecution costs of £1,200. Executive Board Member for Environmental and Public Protection Cllr Jim Jones said he was pleased with the verdict of the court. “Fly-posting is a criminal offence and this sends the clear message that it will not be tolerated,” Cllr Jones said. Fly-posting is displaying adverts and other promotional materials without permission, for example, on buildings, lampposts, railings and litter bins. The council’s fly-posting policy does have exceptions...

Budding footballers in Llanelli were treated to a visit from a former Swansea City Football Club  star. Over 60 youngsters were taking part in a summer camp at Llanelli Leisure Centre when Lee Trundle made his appearance Thursday afternoon. The ex Swans striker took time out to chat with the five to 13-year-olds before they bombarded him with questions ranging from his football career to his hairstyle. He then went on to sign their T-shirts and posed for pictures. The two-day event was organised by Swansea City Community Trust , Welsh Football Trust and Carmarthenshire Council’s sport and leisure department. Its aim was to encourage children to have fun, keep active and learn new football skills. It also provided an opportunity for those who enjoy the game, but are not affiliated to any clubs, to gain experience and build confidence. The council’s Actif facilities manager, Steve Owens said: “We were so lucky and thrilled when we found out Lee had made time in his busy schedule to...

Carmarthenshire County Council is one of 10 authorities across the UK competing to be named Council of the Year in service delivery. The Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) has shortlisted the council for the award, seen as the pinnacle of excellence in public services. Carmarthenshire is the only Welsh council shortlisted, and competes against Edinburgh, Fife, the London Borough of Havering, North Ayrshire, Nottingham, Oxford, Peterborough, South Lanarkshire and Stockton on Tees for Council of the Year. In addition, three of the council’s services are up for individual awards, including Best Service Teams for catering, and construction and building maintenance; and Best Health and Wellbeing Initiative for the transformation of adult social care services. The award ceremony will be held in Nottingham in September when the results will be announced. Leader of the council, Cllr Kevin Madge, said: “To be the only Welsh authority shortlisted for Council of the Year in these...

Carmarthenshire students continue to do the county proud, topping the Welsh average A Level grades yet again. Some 99.4% of students gained A* to E grades compared with the Welsh average of 97.5%, showing a continuation of the high standards set in previous years, with 100% pass rates in many subjects. In the combined top grades of A* and A, Carmarthenshire pupils performed higher than the national average achieving 23.7% compared to 23.3% across Wales. Amongst numerous subjects at A* to E grade, Carmarthenshire had a pass rate of 100% including Welsh, both first and second language, English - language and literature, further maths, design and technology, history, geography, art and design and business studies. Students have also excelled at AS Level, with 88.5% passing with A to E grades, compared to the Welsh average of 85.7%. Education executive board member Cllr Keith Davies said: “We are very proud of the efforts of all Carmarthenshire students, and on behalf of the council I’d ...

Members from a service which helps take people home from hospitals in Carmarthenshire have become more carer aware. Five members of the Twilight team from Menter Cwm Gwendraeth attended the Carer Aware e-Learning courses held at Hafan Derwen and Withybush Hospital. The team have daily contact with carers during their normal work, so a clear understanding of the carer’s role and their rights is fundamental. The course provided the team with the information and confidence to provide guidance and direction for carers when transporting patients home. Assistant Director of Strategic Partnerships Peter Llewellyn said: “The supported courses allowed the team to complete the course with relatively little previous PC experience and made the learning an enjoyable and informative experience. They will also now able to give additional comfort and support at a difficult time. “Well done to all the participants who passed with flying colours and the Twilight Team are truly “Carer Aware”. If y...

Hywel Dda University Health Board has thanked staff following the introduction of new Midiwfe Led Units at Glangwili and Withybush Hospitals and the move of special care baby and obstetric services from Withybush Hospital to Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen. From Monday 4 August, special care baby services are provided from a modern, purpose built unit at Glangwili Hospital. Also, women from Pembrokeshire requiring additional care during pregnancy, labour or birth will be advised to give birth in the Consultant Led Unit at Glangwili Hospital. Bernardine Rees, Chair of Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “I am aware of the personal contribution each member of midwifery, nursing and medical staff have made to the women and children of Pembrokeshire over the years. I understand the pride and commitment you feel as part of that team and I also understand the difficulty some of you feel emotionally with the changes that have taken place. “I want to pass on my heartfelt thanks to you a...

The annual Summer BBQ is being held at Furnace Community Hall on Sunday, August 24. There'll be superb food, a well-stocked bar and music with DJ Rob Pendry. The fun starts from 2pm and all are welcome. £5.00 entry per person, pay on the day (no ticket required) Please help the committee and catering team by indicating your intentions on attending with expected numbers please. You can post a message on the Furnace Life Facebook page or send private message to Furnace Life member Elwyn Morgan. Check out the Furnace Life webpage - https://www.facebook.com/groups/239365122922999/278257559033755/?notif_t=group_activity

When the Royal Mint needed some specific expert commercial legal advice, they turned to Red Kite Law’s Company and Commercial partner Paul James. Paul is one of a small number of lawyers in Wales who has built a strong reputation in advising both public sector and private sector clients, and can claim to be an expert in providing practical, commercial legal advice to organisations of any size. “I’m delighted to have been asked to help The Royal Mint with their legal requirements” he said. “As clients go, you can’t get much more prestigious than The Royal Mint and I am looking forward to working with them, particularly at such an exciting time for the organisation, to support their forthcoming significant capital investment programme.” Paul, 31, is head of Red Kite Law’s Company and Commercial department. As well as the Royal Mint, their clients include Ceredigion County Council, the Valero Pembroke refinery and a wide range of SMEs in Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire. Paul said: “Th...

The weekly meeting of Llanelli Rotary Club will be held at 1pm on Fri, August 22 at the Stradey Park Hotel, Llanelli. It is a Fellowship meeting. Other Rotary dates - 7.30pm, Wednesday, August 27, Job Talk by Rotarian Elfryn Davies; 6pm Tuesday, September 9, meeting of Club Council; 1pm Friday, September 19, visit by District Governor (1150) Sandra Townsend; 7.30pm, Wednesday, September 24, President's annual dinner. All events at Stradey Park Hotel. Website - http://www.llanellirotary.com or http://www.rotary-ribi.org/clubs/homepage.php?ClubID=936

A-Level Results: Llanelli pupils offered emotional support from Welsh Government scheme Meic | Llanelli Star : Llanelli pupils getting their A-Level results this morning have been told they can find emotional support through Welsh Government scheme Meic. The helpline service, which will also support GCSE pupils next week, is an advocacy, information and advice service for children and young people. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and can be contacted by phone, SMS text and instant messaging. Call 0808 80 23456 or log on to www.meiccymru.org

Carmarthenshire Community Safety Partnership is offering tips to ensure your peace of mind while you are away on holiday by making sure your home is secure. Almost half of all burglaries happen when a house or flat is empty but the risk can be reduced by taking simple safety measures. Police community safety officer PC Rob Chapman said: “It’s a good idea to get help from family members or your neighbours. You could ask them to collect post, park in the drive, mow the lawn, open and close curtains, and so on. Anything to make the place look lived in. “Don’t advertise the fact that you are going away. For instance, don’t stand around with your cases waiting for a taxi. Simply pack your things, pack the car and go.” He also advised letting a neighbour know when you are on holiday and how to contact you, or someone who can act on your behalf, in an emergency.

Residents and traders are being reminded that there are changes to refuse and recycling collections over the August Bank Holiday. From Monday, August 25 until Friday, August 29, collections will take place one day later than usual. For example, if your collection is due on the Monday, it won’t be picked up until the Tuesday and so on. Friday collections will be made on the Saturday. The changes also affect the council’s trade waste customers. The recycling centres in Trostre (Llanelli), Wernddu (Ammanford), Nantycaws (Carmarthen) and Whitland are open as usual. Llangadog is closed on Bank Holiday Monday. Residents can sign up to the council’s text messaging or email alert service for latest news and information including refuse/recycling collections. Executive Board Member for Technical Services Cllr Colin Evans said: “It is important we continue to recycle as much as we can but also to reduce the amount of rubbish we produce in the first place. “Not only do we have recycling targets...

Carmarthenshire Community Safety Partnership is offering the following tips to improve the security of your shed, outbuilding or garage this summer. Cover any windows with a curtain etc to stop prying eyes. Lay gravel around the door area (hard to walk on quietly) If possible fit bars on the inside of windows. Consider using extra internal bolts that drop into the floor for Up & Over garage doors. If you have wooden shed doors, check that the hinges and fixings are secured with coach bolts and not just screws. Fit a quality padlock and hasp, not a cheap one. Consider fitting a security light that has a built in sensor. Consider fitting a garage / shed alarm, no wires and can be fitted in about 5 minutes. Always lock your garage and when possible keep the doors closed. Security mark all your property, Use engravers or punches to mark your postcode and surname etc. Use permanent property markers on other types of property such as bikes, lawnmowers, strimmers, hand tools, electrical...

The village of Bronwydd now has a play area – thanks to a £38,000 investment supported by Carmarthenshire County Council. The play area alongside Bronwydd Hall is already proving popular with local youngsters. Bronwydd Playing Field Committee applied for grant aid under the Rural Community Inclusion element of the Rural Development Plan and its proposals were supported because Bronwydd did not have a play area and the nearest were in the outlying villages of Llanpumpsaint and Peniel several miles away. The scheme was awarded £20,000 from the RDP, £15,000 from CWM Environmental and £3,000 through the Welsh Church Fund. The site is leased from the council by the Bronwydd Hall Committee and is run by the Bronwydd Playing Fields Committee. The play equipment was installed by Playdale. Local member Cllr Irfon Jones said: “This is a brand new site, before this there were no play facilities in the village but now we have swings, climbing frames and other equipment. It’s for children up to a...

Calling all A-level students in Carmarthenshire – have fun celebrating your exam results – but don’t get carried away! Enjoy a safe and trouble-free enjoyment without getting carried away to A&E or the cells! If you’re already 18 remember to ‘Think Safe, Drink Safe’ tomorrow (Thursday) after picking up your A-level results – and if you’re still under 18 remember to have an alcohol-free celebration. To keep safe stay out of rivers and lakes, and don’t go into the sea if you’ve been drinking. The Community Safety Partnership wants to ensure students enjoy a safe and trouble-free post-results celebration. Remember that drinking can have harmful effects including alcoholic poisoning, hangovers, and reckless or anti-social behaviour. Carmarthenshire County Council executive board member for Community Safety Cllr Pam Palmer said: “We want you people to enjoy yourselves celebrating your exam results after all that hard work – but please do so safely and without causing trouble.”

Vacancies at Cwmcerrig Farmshop and Grill near Gorslas, Carmarthenshire - The award-winning Cwmcerrig Farmshop and Grill needs a full-time porter and a kitchen waiter/waitress Full details available on application. Please apply in person by calling in to Cwmcerrig Farmshop and Grill for an application form. Cwmcerrig Farm, Gorslas, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, SA14 7HU Tel: 01269 844 405 E-mail: info@cwmcerrigfarmshop.co.uk http://www.cwmcerrigfarmshop.co.uk/

Latest news from the Paul Popham Fund, Renal Support Wales -  ONE WEEK TODAY! Thursday 21st August, 5pm for Pre-Race Dinner @ Vesuvius, Landore £15 for a 2 course meal followed by Race Night 8pm @ The Globe HOST WITH THE MOSTEST! Mr Mark Wilkes HOW IT WORKS Click here  To book - Email:  paulpophamfund@gmail.com  or  joanne@coden.co.uk Call: 0333 2001 285 or 07896369977 Paul Popham Fund Renal Support Wales Telephone: 0333 2001 285 Email:  paulpophamfund@gmail.com

The latest Phil Evans column from the South Wales Evening Post - Comedian Phil Evans is from Ammanford. He is known as the man who puts the ‘cwtsh’ into comedy. I don’t half get annoyed when some blonde, mini-skirted, giggling n’ jiggling, stunningly attractive, air-headed breakfast TV weather- forecaster tells me it’s the hottest August we’re experiencing since the last hottest August. Especially when she then jumps out of bed and refuses to make me a cup of tea before she goes to work. Whether you’re a dedicated sun lover or buy some other daily paper, let’s all agree it’s been damned hot and if there’s one thing I’ve learned in all my weeks in this glorious business of show, it’s that relentlessly hot weather is not conducive to the performing of comedy. Or the making of snowmen. But is turned out to be good weather for most of the Llanelli National Eisteddfod week. That’s what I call “luck”. On the Monday, in order to cool down during the phenomenal heat wave, I strip-off down t...

Exciting plans for new Burry Port Development | Llanelli Star Fresh hope has emerged for a multi million pound development which could completely transform Burry Port. Plans for the development, which is adjacent to the original Grillo site have been submitted to Carmarthenshire Council's planning department. It comes after plans to transform the former zinc oxide works site were rejected by the Welsh Government earlier this year. If the application is successful the development could bring around 134 homes to the area, alongside a host of new restaurants, pubs and businesses. The U-turn on the scheme came after the validity of the original tidal maps were challenged.

East Gate night time car parking hike could have 'dramatic' impact, say businesses | Llanelli Star Charges for parking at Llanelli's East Gate car park will be enforced until 9pm prompting fears of a "dramatic" impact on the town's theatre, cinema, and restaurants. Carmarthenshire Council's traffic and parking manager John McEvoy said later charges from 6pm to 9pm at the car park will be introduced from April 1, 2015. He explained that these costs are being brought in to reflect "the changing use and demands on this car park up to 9pm". Elli ward councillor John Jenkins said the charges could deter people from visiting the town to use the East Gate facilities.

Bumper £700 prize on offer at annual Arthur Cambrey Memorial bowls tournament | Llanelli Star A bumper prize fund of £700 will be on offer at the annual Arthur Cambrey Memorial four-wood pairs bowls tournament at Parc Howard, Llanelli later this month. The tournament, sponsored by Golden Charter, will be held on Sunday, August 24 and Monday, August 25, starting at 9.30am on the Sunday.

Football players united in grief at loss of much-loved Jonathan 'Butty' Evans | Llanelli Star Football players from Kidwelly and Llanelli came together in a minute's silence to mark the death of a "gentle giant" who died a fortnight ago. The match, which had been organised by Kidwelly Town against Llanelli Reds to mark their 30th anniversary began with sadness as players linked arms at the centre circle in respect of dad-of-two Jonathan Evans. Mr Evans tragically lost his life in a farming accident at the age of just 43.

Sisters rescued after tides swept in | Llanelli Star A frightened teenager swam to shore in Burry Port while her sister had to be rescued after getting cut off by the tide. The girl and her sister had been walking to the west of Burry Port Lighthouse on Sunday when the incident occurred. RNLI operation manager Roger Bowen said the girl was unaware of the distance when she set off in he water. He said: “They had been cut off on the sand bank and she swam to shore. She managed to get herself back home. But she was very cold and frightened.” Volunteer crew members from the charity were called out to attend the incident at around 4.30pm on Sunday.

Latest news from the Hywel Dda University Health Board -  We are delighted to announce that Glangwili’s fantastic new Midwife Led Unit has welcomed its first baby. The purpose built Midwife Led Unit opened on Monday 4 August and baby Lola May Harman was born on Thursday 7 August. Mum Sarah, baby and proud Dad Keiran from Cardigan are doing well. The Midwife Led Unit in Glangwili, Carmarthen, has been designed for women who want to deliver in a homely and relaxed atmosphere whilst being cared for by midwives who are experts in normal births. Glangwili’s Midwife Led Unit has four en-suite birthing rooms and birthing pools are also available for women who find that the use of water helps them to feel more comfortable during labour. Head of Midwifery and Women’s Health, Catherine Cotter, said: “The decision about where to have your baby is personal and based on many factors and we are very proud to be able to offer this fantastic new facility to our mums-to-be. On behalf of Hywel Dd...

A party of Breton visitors from France enjoyed the National Eisteddfod and their band performed at Pentre Cyngor Sir Gâr. The party arrived in Carmarthen as part of the twinning programme between the town and Lesneven in Brittany. They were accompanied by their Bagad Broeven Band. Cllr Peter Hughes Griffiths, who established the twinning link 32 years ago, arranged for the party of 45 to visit the Eisteddfod. He said: “Carmarthen Town Council and Carmarthenshire County Council have supported everything we do. I’m delighted to have had the opportunity to show our Breton friends round the Eisteddfod and that the band has had the opportunity to perform.” Dominig Mevel of the Bagad Broeven band said: “You are very fortunate to have such a festival for the Welsh language.” Bagad Broeven was formed in November 2009. Broeven is the area around Lesneven and recalls the legendary Even, King of Leon, the area now known as North Finistere. The band was set up for leisure and pleasure rather th...

A new school for Seaside in Llanelli is one step closer after the Welsh Government gave its approval to the Strategic Outline Case. The case was made by Carmarthenshire County Council for the development of the £12.5million superschool in Llanelli, which will replace Copperworks and Lakefield schools. A site has been identified at the former Draka factory in Copperworks Road and has been cleared ready for development. The new building will cater for 420 pupils plus a nursery with 60 places. Following the Welsh Government approval, the council can now move the project forward to the next stages and work on this will begin immediately. However, it will be some time before actual building work on the school can begin. Education executive board member Cllr Keith Davies said: “Whilst we are obviously really pleased with the Welsh Government’s approval for our Strategic Outline Case, there is still a considerable way to go yet to satisfy their processes, including the need to present for a...

A set of 'smart' traffic lights are being installed at a busy Carmarthen junction to overcome delays and build up of traffic. Temporary traffic lights have been in operation while the work is carried outon the busy junctions serving Llanstephan Road, Johnstown and on to Job's Well Road. The temporary lights have caused some delays, but the inconvenience will be worth when the new £60,000 MOVA (Microprocessor Optimised Vehicle Actuation) lights have been installed, acclimatise and become responsive to traffic conditions. Carmarthenshire County Council’s traffic manager John McEvoy said it was a large investment but an important one as it will be more responsive to traffic conditions and will lead to a significant increase in capacity at the junctions. “In free flowing mode the aim of MOVA is to disperse any queues which have built up on a red signal,” he said. “It then assesses the traffic flows approaching on each arm of the junction and calculates if extending the curre...

Llanelli’s Ffwrnes Theatre boomed while the Carmarthenshire National Eisteddfod was in town. Carmarthenshire Theatre’s manager Carwyn Matera Rogers said: “The theatre is certainly on the bigger map as a result of the Eisteddfod, many of its visitors come to see us and they came from all over the world.” The Ffwrnes had a mobile box office on the Eisteddfod Field and sold in excess of £1500 of tickets for our autumn programme in all county theatres. Mr Rogers said: “More than 100 new customers have registered on our customer’s database. “We have had audiences totalling 3,600 both locally and from all parts of Wales attending sell out performances in our main auditorium and in Stiwdio Stepni. “We recruited three volunteers after the launch of our Gyda’n Gilydd Volunteer initiative who worked with us for a total of 42 hours. “We launched our gallery space at the Ffwrnes with a Polish-Welsh partnership exhibition of the work of Josef Herman who was a Polish-Jewish immigrant who eventuall...

Carmarthenshire's Summer Geocache Challenge is running throughout this month. People can join in and enjoy the free outdoor experience to find four Geocaches that have been hidden across the Llanelli area. Geocaching is a modern day outdoor treasure hunt powered by the internet. It encourages children to explore their surroundings and have an adventure. Participants visit www.geocaching.com or mobile phone apps to get coordinates for the various caches. Mark Jewell, Library Services Manager, said: “Everyone is welcome to join in the Geocache challenge which runs throughout August and ends on September 1. It is free for all and is an incredibly fun activity.” www.geocaching.carmarthenshire.gov.uk

Improvements are being made to the Gwili Railway at Bronwydd near Carmarthen. Work has started on road access and a car park for the new railway station at Abergwili Junction, located close to Glangwili Hospital. Plans are in place to open the railway's extension to Abergwili Junction by 2015. The railway hopes to open half of the new extension, a distance of just over a mile, before October. Carmarthenshire County Council’s Leader Cllr Kevin Madge was invited to cut the first sod at a turf cutting ceremony to celebrate the start of work. Pictured cutting the first sod for the improvement works are Geoff Richards - Director, Gwili Railway, Dewi Jones - Gwili Railway, Glyn Evans - Chairman, Bronwydd Community Council, Irfon Jones Cynwyl Elfed, County Councillor, Cllr Pam Palmer, Deputy Leader CCC, Barry Williams Deputy Mayor of Carmarthen, Peter Nicholas Chairman, Gwili Railway Co, Cllr Kevin Madge Leader CCC, Steven Caws Gwili Railway.

Latest news from Ffos Las racecourse in Carway in the Gwendraeth Valley -    Family Fun Raceday Thursday 21 August Whilst enjoying a flutter or two, you can be rest assured the little ones will be kept entertained with the fantastic entertainment that will be provided throughout the day. The Panic Circus will be here with their big top, providing free entertainment and activities for the kids. We will have inflatable skill sessions with the Scarlets, As well as face painting, balloon modelling, Golf taster session with Glyn Abbey Golf Club and mini tennis session from Swansea Tennis Centre. Website - http://www.ffoslasracecourse.com/

Latest 'Healthy Wednesday' advice from the Hywel Dda University Health Board -  It’s Healthy Wednesday – think and talk about what you drink! This Healthy Wednesday we are asking you to think and talk about what you drink. No matter how much you drink it is important to keep an eye on your alcohol consumption. Binge drinking often hits the news headlines but did you know over 45s are three times more likely to drink alcohol every day? The NHS recommends that men drink no more than 3-4 units a day and women no more than 2-3 units a day and that you have at least two alcohol-free days every week. Therefore, if you choose to drink, stick within the guidelines. You can find out how many units are in your favourite drinks with the unit checker http://change4lifewales.org.uk/adults/alcohol/drinks-checker/?lang=en or use the interactive calculator at www.drinkwisewales.org.uk you may well be surprised at what you should be drinking. Teresa Owen, Director of Public Health at Hywel ...

Latest news from Aberglasney Mansion House and Gardens in the Tywi Valley -  Mark Cox Exhibition in Aberglasney's Mansion Running from now until Thursday 21st August Popular Carmarthen artist Mark Cox is a traditional painter who values the skills and techniques that can only come with years of study and experience. Mark draws his inspiration from the landscape of south and west Wales and enjoys working in both oil and watercolours, producing landscapes, seascapes and coastal scenes. Mark is passionate about painting and is fortunate to live in an area of natural outstanding beauty where there is a new subject waiting to be captured on canvas around every corner. Mark's own website describes him as 'an eclectic artist who enjoys working on a variety of subjects, producing landscapes, marine and coastal paintings. He works in both oils and watercolours. Mark, who has been painting all his life, gained an honours degree in fine art at Trinity College Carmarthen. Mark h...

Latest special offers from the Jenkins Bakery - WEEK COMMENCING 11/08/14 3 MEDIUM CORNED BEEF PASTIES £1.65 2 LARGE CORNED BEEF PASTIES £1.95 SANDWICH OF THE WEEK – PRAWN COCKTAIL £2.15 RUSTIC BAGUETTE OF THE WEEK – CHICKEN & BACON £2.40 FILLED SOFTIE ROLL OF THE WEEK – CHICKEN TIKKA £2.30 Website - http://jenkinsbakery.co.uk/

Llanelli Railway Goods Shed Trust is inviting supporters to a fund-raising Curry Night. The evening will be hosted by Nia Griffith MP, Roger Price, Mayor of Llanelli, and Reverend Eldon Phillips on Monday, 29th September. The venue is the Ali Raj restaurant in Trinity Road, Llanelli. The evening starts at 7pm and will feature a raffle. Tickets, price £12, are available from Robert Lloyd, email rlloydpr@btinternet.com or telephone 07777 683637.

Three more schools in Carmarthenshire will be offering a Flying Start to children in their areas from this autumn. Dafen, Ysgol y Bedol and Bynea primary schools will benefit from the investment which is a Welsh Government Early Years preventative programme. It is aimed at families with children who are under four years of age and is targeted in some of the most deprived areas in Wales. Carmarthenshire County Council Leader Cllr Kevin Madge said he welcomed the news which would benefit so many children. “Flying Start is an excellent initiative which aims to make a real difference to the lives of children under four in the areas where it runs,” Cllr Madge said. “It is really good news for Carmarthenshire that three more schools will be able to offer children and families this opportunity.” The core elements of the Flying Start programme are: Free, quality, part-time childcare for two to three year olds. An enhanced health visiting service. Access to parenting programmes.  Ea...

Hywel Dda University Health Board has moved to reassure Ceredigion residents following recent misleading reports regarding the future of Bronglais Hospital’s maternity services. Caroline Oakley, Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery at Hywel Dda University Health Board said: “Contrary to recent reports, no such announcement or decision has been made by Hywel Dda University Health Board regarding the future of maternity services at Bronglais Hospital. “We await the outcome of the independently led Mid Wales Healthcare Study. This piece of work is pivotal in informing the future direction of all services provided for the communities in Ceredigion, north Powys and south Gwynedd. “Bronglais continues to provide both midwifery led and consultant led care. We have communicated this in our recent information booklet 'Where Will I Have My Baby', designed to help women from across our area to choose where to give birth. The University Health Board’s online resources at  www.hyweld...

Save time - do it online. That’s the message from Carmarthenshire County Council. A digital campaign has been launched to encourage more people to contact the council via the  iLocal pages on the website, and social media. Whatever people want to do – whether it is to pay for a service, report something, or find out information – it is available online. The My House feature also lets people know where their nearest things are, such as schools, surgeries, car parks, libraries, playgroups, recycling centres and a whole host of other services. The site has been designed to make it easier for people to contact the council both during and outside office hours. They can pay their council tax or business rates online, order and pay for a compost bin, or arrange collection of bulky goods. Requests can be made on iLocal for a number of things including housing repairs, disabled facilities grants, new council tax bills, leisure centre memberships and bus timetables. Residents can report ...

Hywel Dda University Health Board is planning future delivery of general medical services to patients in Aberaeron and surrounding areas after receiving notice of retirement from Dr Price-Jones, Oxford Street Surgery. Dr Price-Jones will retire on 31 October 2014 but will provide care and treatment to patients up until that point. Currently, approximately 1,000 patients are registered at the surgery. Interim Executive Director of Primary Care, Community, Mental Health and Clinical Strategy Dr Phil Kloer said: “On behalf of the University Health Board, I would like to thank Dr Price-Jones for his service to the NHS and local community and we wish him all the best in his retirement. “We will now work closely with other local GPs, the Local Medical Committee and the Community Health Council to consider options for future delivery of general medical services to patients registered at Oxford Street Surgery.” A University Health Board meeting to discuss options available will be held later i...

With the Hengoed Ward of Carmarthenshire Council hosting Carmarthenshire’s National Eisteddfod on its doorstep there has been huge excitement in the village and a general feeling of “how are we ever going to top that.” Minor parking issues have only underlined the phenomenal success of the event, said Pwll Councillor George Edwards. “I have had visitors from Scotland and Birmingham who have come specifically for the National Eisteddfod and they have thoroughly enjoyed themselves. “It has been a roaring success. “I have never seen to many people walking and cycling the coastal path to Burry Port. Eisteddfod visitors have been exploring and finding out more about this stunning corner location of our glorious county. “Many have told me they will be coming back to visit again. They have been blown away by the scenery and what we have to offer within and both ends of the Millennium Coastal Park. “Local businesses from the Colliers to the Bryngwyn Newydd have been bursting at the seams and...

ROBIN WILLIAMS 1951 -2014 With so many parts of the word in crisis, why should the death of an entertainer affect so many of us? Perhaps because during his 40-year career Robin Williams’ performances helped us forget the cruel world we live in. Apart his many hit films, he was a sensational stand-up comedian. In the early 80s he topped the bill on a Prince’s Trust Charity Performance, fresh from his TV series “Mork and Mindy” for which he was mainly known here. He struggled at first, sweating and looking panicky. But once the audience had attuned themselves to his manic, stream-of-consciousness delivery...boom! He got his first huge laugh and was off and running, improvising and riffing, like a veteran jazz musician. He was also a terrific actor in straight roles - playing memorably sinister characters in both “One Hour Photo” and “Insomnia” - and his voice performance as the animated Genie in “Aladdin” has entertained generations. And now he’s gone. Looking at his career and...

People in the Hywel Dda health area whose lives have been touched by the loss of a baby, during pregnancy or shortly after birth, are invited to attend a special memorial service. The Forget Me Not service of remembrance and hope ‘for all our babies’ is for everyone affected by the death of a baby whether before birth or after. Gill Llewellyn, bereavement officer, said: “When someone experiences the loss of a pregnancy and the death of a baby, it feels as if you are the only one in the word going through such a loss, but sadly it happens more often that we imagine. Anyone who lost a child knows they will continue to live in your hearts and the service is just a chance to remember and there will be an opportunity for you, if you wish, to receive a remembrance card to place on the altar and light a candle.” This year’s service takes place on September 19 in St Luke’s Chapel in Withybush Hospital at 6.30pm. Refreshments will be kindly provided by the R.V.S For further information plea...

On October 10, the Eiriol Mental Health Advocacy Charity will be celebrating their 10th Anniversary and also World Mental Health Day by holding an free conference at the National Botanical Gardens of Wales near Carmarthen. It will be an interesting day with several information stands, a selection of speakers and workshop activities.  Registration is from 9.30 am with the conference from 10.00 till 4.30. Please contact Susi De Lacey, Development Advocate, ASAP if your organisation would like a stand.  Full details of the speakers and workshops will follow shortly. Please feel free to pass on this info to anyone else who maybe interested. Susi De Lacey. Development Advocate. Eiriol. King Street. Carmarthen. SA31 1BA tel 07794375834. Website - http://www.eiriol.org.uk/news/4583272212