March 2004 Edition - Torfaen County Borough Council

INSIDE
www.torfaen.gov.uk 01495 762200
March 2004 - Mawrth 2004
WEBSTER NEEDS YOU !
This is your chance to
take part in an
exciting local project,
publicise your hobby,
business or interest and
possibly take advantage of
free loan computer kit,
Internet connection and training.
www.webster.uk.net is designed for the people
of Torfaen by the people of Torfaen. It is a project
that brings everything about life in Torfaen onto
the Internet.This new community portal is
packed full of local and community information
written by local people, sports clubs, hobby
groups, residents’ groups, businesses, charities and
social clubs.The portal will allow ‘you’ to
organise information in the way that you want it
to be displayed, so you could choose from say,
local news, information on local businesses, bus
timetables,What’s On, access to Public Services
and even local sports and weather reports.
There are two ways that you can get involved
in Webster.uk.net.You can either become a
JOE CALZAGHE MBE
Cwmbran’s boxing star Joe Calzaghe was delighted to receive his
MBE in a ceremony at County Hall during January. Joe brought his
wife Mandy, their parents, and their three sons to watch it being
presented to him by the Lord Lieutenant of Gwent Simon Boyle.
Torfaen Mayor Doug Davies said:“Everyone in Torfaen is proud to
have him living here and will continue to support him."
reader or a writer.To become a ‘writer’ you need
to either represent a group or be an individual
with a special interest or hobby who would like
to publicise what they do. Should you wish to
join the team of ‘writers’, the Webster.uk.net
team will provide the training you need to
develop your own pages.You don’t even need to
own a computer or have Internet access as these
will be provided free of charge to suitable
authors. So far dozens of computers have already
been given to community groups and local
businesses and there are still over 100 available.
If you want to become a ‘reader’, you will be
able to access the wealth of information held
within Webster.uk.net again from any Internet
ready PC, over thirty public access kiosks that
are being
installed across
Torfaen and from
any of the 50
People’s network
PCs at Torfaen’s
Libraries.
Councillor Bob Wellington,Acting Leader, said:
“Webster.uk.net is a unique project and I’m
proud to say that it has been designed and built
in Torfaen.With the help of local individuals,
groups and businesses we can continue to grow
its success and really help to make a difference to
life in Torfaen.”
If you want to get involved in
www.webster.uk.net call 01495 766300 or visit
the site.
Webster is funded by the European Regional
Development Fund,Welsh Assembly
Government,Torfaen Council and the Welsh
Development Agency.
Joe Calzaghe MBE celebrates
Children’s Info Service Launched Could you be a Social Worker? Show bogus callers the door

Reduce - Re-use - Recycle- An Update
It's 18 months since the Black Box recycling scheme started in
Torfaen and it's playing a huge part in reducing the amount of
rubbish that's sent to landfill.Thanks to residents getting involved
and filling up their box the scheme is on target to recycle an
incredible 2500 tonnes of waste.The items that can be put in the
box are glass, newspapers/magazines, clothes, tins, shoes and junk
mail (no window envelopes).
An extra funding boost means later this year the boxes will be
collected from the kerbside every week. Black Box recycling is a
partnership between Torfaen County Borough Council,Torfaen
Community Recycling and Contract Services Organisation.The
scheme has created 24 new jobs which will increase to 32 when
the weekly service starts.
If you have not got a Black Box and would like one call 01633
Page 2
Call 01633 648249 to find out about
the real nappy laundry service
Feeling Better
Every Day
The Exercise for Life scheme is inviting
everyone to join them for their weekly
well-being workouts.
The classes consist of gentle circuit
activities and relaxing stretches. Adults of all
abilities are welcomed, and the classes can also
be used by people currently enrolled on the
GP referral scheme. Newcomers to the class
will be questioned on health issues to ensure
their suitability for the exercises.
The classes take place every Monday for
an hour at 2pm at Cwmbran Stadium. For
more information, call Victoria Norman on
01633 627128.
The New Opportunities Fund have
contributed £1 million of lottery money to
Torfaen Council’s Total Health initiative who
run the classes. Torfaen Health has been
operating for just over a year and is going
from strength to strength in promoting a
healthy lifestyle for everyone in the area.
The kerbside collection in action
860086.Also super-recyclers who would like an extra box to fill
can also get one by calling this number.
Other projects which are helping to cut down on what's sent to
landfill are:
Circulate collects unwanted furniture for free and refurbishes it at
its Blaenavon warehouse.
It is then sold to families and individuals on low income
throughout Torfaen.There is also a computer recycling scheme
which repairs unwanted computers. Both schemes are run by the
Garnsychan Partnership. Call 01495 774453
Home composting- Home composting is brilliant to help your
garden grow.You can get discounted home composting kits for
just £10. Over 3,500 have been delivered to Torfaen homes. Call
Teimio’n Well
Bod Dydd
Mae'r cynllun Exercise for Life yn
gwahodd pawb i ymuno â hwy ar gyfer
eu sesiynau ymarfer corff.
Mae'r dosbarthiadau yn cynnwys
gweithgareddau cylchedau cymedrol a llaesu'r
cyhyrau i ymlacio. Mae croeso i oedolion o
bob oed, a gall y dosbarthiadau hefyd gael eu
defnyddio gan bobl sydd ar hyn o bryd wedi
cofrestru ar gynllun atgyfeirio meddygon teulu.
Holir aelodau newydd i’r dosbarthiadau
ynghylch materion iechyd i wneud yn siwr eu
bod yn addas ar gyfer yr ymarferiadau.
Cynhelir y dosbarthiadau bob dydd Llun
am 2pm yn Stadiwm Cwmbrân ac maent yn
para am awr. Am fwy o fanylion ffoniwch
Victoria Norman ar 01633 627128
^
Mae'r grwp Cyfleoedd Newydd a noddir
gan y loteri wedi cyfrannu £1 miliwn i fenter
Total Health Cyngor Torfaen sy'n cynnal y
dosbarthiadau. Mae Iechyd Torfaen wedi bod
yn gweithredu ers ychydig dros flwyddyn ac
mae'n mynd o nerth i nerth mewn hyrwyddo
ffordd o fyw iach ar gyfer pawb yn yr ardal.
SUPPORTING PEOPLE
Supporting People is the new service which is making sure people get the help and support they
need to live independently.The kind of help it offers includes:
-Setting up and maintaining a home
-Personal safety and security (including alarm systems)
-Help with money matters and benefit claims
-Help for young care leavers, homeless people
It focuses on helping people living in places including sheltered housing, group homes, hostels,
women’s refuges as well as providing floating support to people in their own home.
The Supporting People team identify the best possible services to meet the needs of vulnerable
people such as the homeless, older people, young people, people with learning difficulties, physical
disabilities, refugees, offenders or women escaping domestic abuse.
They work with a large variety of people and groups.These include support providers, housing
providers, Social Services, Health, Probation, local planning groups and other statutory, voluntary
and private sector agencies.
Supporting People aims to identify the best type of services needed and make sure people with
support needs are involved in this process to improve their quality of life.
To find out more visit www.torfaen.gov.uk call 01495 766447 or email
supporting.people@torfaen.gov.uk
If you’re looking for help and advice about
benefits, check out Torfaen People’s Centre
in Trosnant House, Pontypool.
The centre offers a range of services to the
community. Volunteers or advisors can help with
all aspects of claiming benefits, from advice on
your entitlement, to help with filling in the forms.
Neil McAteer, the Welfare Benefits Advice
Worker at the People’s Centre, said:“We’re
making sure people know what options they have,
and giving them the information they need to
make the best of those options. If we can help in
any way, we will. We won’t turn anybody away.”
The centre offers a completely free and
confidential service to the public. In one month
alone, workers have dealt with 89 clients
considering a total of 165 matters. They have also
pursued four successful benefits tribunals.
If you need us, call 01495 762200
Straight Recycling on 0845 1306090 or order on line at
www.getcomposting.com/torfaen
Nappy Laundry Scheme- The UK sends over 3 billion nappies to
landfill every year and every child produces a tonne of waste
nappies. It takes each one 500 years to decompose.A Real Nappy
laundry scheme means parents can get clean nappies delivered to
their home and the dirty ones taken away.There is an excellent
choice of real nappies now available on the market.The days of
safety pins are long gone with either velcro or popper fixers on
the wraps.The newest edition is the Welsh Three Feathers.A
definite must have for the supporters and the new stars of Welsh
Rugby!
To find out more about the real nappy service call 01633 648249
BENEFITS HELP FOR THE
PEOPLE OF TORFAEN
Buy a cut-price compost
bin on 0845 1306090
Trosnant House is also host to the
Community University of the Valleys. This scheme
is a learning programme in partnership with
University of Wales College, Newport for people
of any age or ability to earn credits towards a
degree, through a variety of courses.
Jill Peterson, Office Manager, said:“The Torfaen
People’s Centre is about expanding people’s
horizons.”
Councillor Lyn Irwin, Chairman of the Torfaen
People’s Centre Board, said:“The Torfaen People’s
Centre is a place where everyone is welcome,
there is no discrimination and no one is turned
away. Torfaen County Borough Council have
provided the core funding for a great service,
there for the people of Torfaen.”
For more information, or to book an
appointment at Torfaen People’s Centre call
01495 764835.
Computer Bus Timetable
The Reach for IT bus gives free informal computer training. Depending on the availability of computers,
residents can get on board for a duration which suits them in the two and a half hours spent at each
stop.
It is partially funded by the European Social Fund,The New Opportunities Fund (Lottery) and ALLNET
(the Internet supplier).
For more information please contact Caroline or John on 07980 682346.
The Spring 2004 Timetable is:
* Internet stop 9.30am - 12.00 pm 1pm - 3.30 pm
Monday Pontypool Working Men’s Club Wainfelin * Woodlands Field Penygarn
Tuesday Millennium Hall Garndiffaith * Broad Street Car Park Blaenavon
Wednesday Trevethin Shops Pontypool * Upper Race Blaendare Road *
Thursday Yew Tree Inn West Pontnewydd * Thornhill Shops Cwmbran
Friday Ponthir Community Hall Ponthir Two Locks Nursery St Dials *
Blaenafon Booktown is holding a week of events
to celebrate World Book Day on Thursday 4
March.The Booktown success has attracted the
media and visitors from all over the country keen
to see how the town has been boosted by the
opening of bookshops. It's been compared to
another famous Booktown, Hay-on-Wye.
In recent months Blaenafon has featured in local
and national media including The Times and ITV
BOOKTOWN BOOMS
News. If you've never visited it before this week is
a chance to check it out.The 2004 Spring Festival
runs from Monday 1 March to Saturday 6 March
and events include readings, signings, musical
sessions, workshops and talks.
Check out the Booktown's official website at
www.booktownblaenafon.com or call 01495
793093 for tickets.
www.torfaen.gov.uk

£50,000 TO HELP SCHOOL
AND COMMUNITY
The multi-use sports pitch at Fairwater High School in Cwmbran has been transformed with a
£50,000 refurbishment. It's now a first-class facility for
the school and community as members of the public
can book it for use during the evenings and weekends.
The red-gra was built when the school opened in
the 1970s and was in need of complete refurbishment.
The surface had become uneven due to a drainage
problem and was being damaged by youths riding their
motorbikes across it.
Now the drainage has been repaired and the pitch is
fenced off.The all-weather surface is ideal for hockey
which will support the development of the sport in the
school, with particular emphasis on encouraging girls to
take part.The floodlights mean that it can be used by
the school and local community through out the year
Councillor John Turner, Executive Member for
Education, said: "This is a first-class facility which will
encourage pupils to take part in sport.The many local
clubs that are based at Fairwater leisure centre will also
be pleased that the red-gra has been refurbished. It no
longer has problems with large pools of water not
draining away and I believe it will be better treated as a
valued facility for everyone in the area."
Red-gra is type of gravel surface which is playable in most weather conditions apart from frost
and snow.
WHAT WILL IT BE LIKE TO LIVE
IN TORFAEN IN THE FUTURE?
No one knows what it will be like to live in Torfaen in the future, but
the new Community Strategy will build a picture of what we would all
like it to be.
The Community Strategy is a plan to improve the quality of life for everyone
in the Borough. It involves a wide range of organisations in the public, private,
voluntary and community sectors, as well as local people.
The Community Strategy is all about working together in partnership. At the
moment a group of people and organisations are coming together to form a
Community Strategy Partnership. This group will be responsible for contributing
to the vision of life in the future in Torfaen, as well as ensuring their own
organisation implements any actions assigned to them.
But the crucial ingredient in any Community Strategy is Community
involvement! Once the Partnership has been formed it will be developing an
exciting consultation process which will go on throughout Torfaen.
Individuals and communities will be invited to come and give their views on
the current quality of life in Torfaen and how it can be improved in the future.
You will soon be hearing a lot more about the Community Strategy and how you
can play a part in shaping Torfaen's future. In the meantime if you want to know
how you can get involved contact Mark Sharwood on 01495 766323 or by email
at mark.sharwood@torfaen.gov.uk.
CUTTING OUT THE LOAN SHARKS
Do you want quick access to a low cost loan with no credit checks? Well Torfaen
Credit Union can help. It’s a non-profit making organisation with bases throughout
the area offering cheap loans as well as helping them save regularly. Interest on any
loan is only added to the outstanding balance, unlike many High Street loans.To
borrow money you must first join for £1 and save regularly.
Patrick Graham, CoStar Coordinator in Cwmbran South West, said: “You see so
many adverts on telly now offering ‘to consolidate all your loans.’ But there’s a lot
of small print in these claims which inevitably include a huge interest rate. Credit
Unions are non-profit making and ask for proof of ID but don’t need any credit
checks.As long as you save regularly you can borrow money at a low interest rate.
I hope lots of people join and start saving money regularly as there are so many
advantages to saving through the Credit Union.”
To find out your nearest Credit Union base call 01495 750020
Councillors John Turner, Rose Seabourne, Chair of
Governors, and Bob Wellington cut the ribbon
UP UP AND AWAY
Torfaen’s Children’s Information Service has been
launched with the help of 50 local children. It is a
one-stop shop for a range of useful information.
Users can find out about for example, about
playgroups, after school clubs, childminders,
summer play schemes, and even setting up as a
childminder. Call free phone 0800 0196 330, email
cis@torfaen.gov.uk or visit
www.torfaencis.org.uk
The service is a partnership between Torfaen
Council and Jobcentre Plus’s New Deal for Lone
Parents scheme.
£50,000 ER BUDD YSGOL
A CHYMUNED
Mae’r cae chwaraeon aml-ddefnydd yn Ysgol Uwchradd Fairwater yng Nghwmbrân wedi ei
drawsnewid gan adnewyddiad gwerth £50,000.
Mae nawr yn gyfleuster o'r radd flaenaf ar gyfer yr
ysgol ac ar gyfer y gymuned oherwydd gall
aelodau o'r gymuned ei logi gyda'r hwyr ac ar
benwythnosau.
Adeiladwyd y cae graean coch pan agorodd yr
ysgol yn y 1970au ac roedd gwir angen ei
adnewyddu. Roedd yr arwyneb wedi mynd yn
anwastad oherwydd problem ddraenio ac roedd
yn cael ei ddifrodi gan ieuenctid yn reidio eu
beiciau modur arno.
Nawr fod y draeniad wedi ei atgyweirio a bod
y cae wedi ei gorlannu, mae'r wyneb bob tywydd
yn ddelfrydol ar gyfer hoci fydd yn gymorth i
ddatblygiad y gamp yn yr ysgol, gyda phwyslais
arbennig ar annog merched i gymryd rhan.
Golyga'r llifoleuadau y gall gael ei ddefnyddio gan
yr ysgol a'r gymuned leol drwy gydol y flwyddyn.
Dywedodd y Cynghorydd John Turner,Aelod
Gweithredol dros Addysg: "Mae hwn yn gyfleuster
o’r radd flaenaf fydd yn annog disgyblion y gymryd
rhan mewn chwaraeon. Bydd y nifer o glybiau
lleol sydd wedi eu lleoli yng nghanolfan hamdden
Fairwater hefyd yn falch o weld y cae graean coch
wedi ei adnewyddu. Ni cheir problemau mwyach
gyda phyllau mawr o dd?r nad sy'n draenio a chredaf y caiff ei barchu'n well fel cyfleuster gwerthfawr
ar gyfer pawb yn yr ardal."
Mae cae graean coch yn wyneb y gellir chwarae arno ymron pob tywydd ac eithrio rhew neu
eira.
Local children help the the Mayor
Doug Davies launch the service
Eisteddfod tickets now on sale
Every year the National Eisteddfod attracts 170,000 visitors, and
this year it's being held in Newport from 31 July to 6 August, so if
you plan on going don't leave it too late to book your tickets.The
ticket hotline number is 0845 120 11 76.
The programme promises something to suit all ages including
singing, dancing and much more. Primary and secondary schools
are also taking part with fun activities leading up to the festival.
These are some of the thing happening in Torfaen over the next
two months.
Friday 19 March - Betty Eyles Singers and Blaenafon Ladies choir
concert.
Crane Street Baptist Church, Pontypool
Tickets - £3 including light refreshments. Call 01495
773671/758843
Saturday 10 April - Welsh Folk Singing and Dancing,Town Centre
Blaenafon
Saturday 24 April - Floral dancers, welsh folk dancing and singing,
Greenmeadow community farm
Saturday 1 May - Floral dancers and welsh folk singing and
dancing, Cwmbran town centre
Tocynnau Eisteddfod ar werth yn awr
Bob blwyddyn bydd yr Eisteddfod Genedlaethol yn denu 170,000
o ymwelwyr, ac eleni cynhelir yr Eisteddfod yng Nghasnewydd o'r
31ain Gorffennaf hyd y 6ed o Awst, felly os ydych yn bwriadu
mynd peidiwch a'i gadael hi yn rhy hwyr cyn archebu eich
tocynnau. Llinell uniongyrchol y tocynnau yw 0845 120 11 76.
Mae'r rhaglen yn cynnig rhywbeth ar gyfer pob oed yn cynnwys
canu, dawnsio a llawer mwy. Bydd ysgolion cynradd ac uwchradd
yn cymryd rhan mewn gweithgareddau llawn hwyl yn arwain at yr
wyl. Dyma rai o'r digwyddiadau yn Nhorfaen yn ystod y deufis
nesaf.
Dydd Gwener 19 Mawrth - Cantorion Betty Eyles a Chôr
Merched Blaenafon.
Eglwys y Bedyddwyr Stryd Crane, Pont-y-pwl
Tocynnau - £3 yn cynnwys lluniaeth ysgafn. Fffoniwch 01495
773671/758843
Dydd Sadwrn 10 Ebrill - Canu a Dawnsio Gwerin, Canol Tref
Blaenafon
Dydd Sadwrn 24 Ebrill - Dawnswyr y ddawns flodau, dawnsio a
chanu gwerin Cymru, fferm gymunedol Greenmeadow
Dydd Sadwrn 1 Mai (Calan Mai) - Dawnswyr y ddawns flodau a
chanu a dawnsio gwerin Cymru. Canol Tref Cwmbrân
www.torfaen.gov.uk If you need us, call 01495 762200 Page 3

USE YOUR VOTE
Thursday 10 June is the date of Torfaen
County Borough Council's elections. It's
your chance to use your vote and make
your voice heard. In this special feature on
elections we want to give you lots of useful
information about making sure you don't
lose your right to vote, why it's important
to use your vote and how to get involved in
local democracy and decision making.The
Council will be sending out poll cards,
setting up polling stations throughout
Torfaen and making sure the vote count is
done correctly.
It's a big day for elections this year in Wales,
as there are three elections taking place all on the
same day.As well as the County Borough
elections, you'll also be voting for politicians to
represent you on the Community Council and in
the European Parliament. In every polling station
and on postal voting forms there will be clear
instructions on what you need to do on each
ballot form. If you have any queries about voting
or elections please call the Council's Democratic
Services Team on 01495 766077.
Why should I vote?
Your vote helps to choose the people who make
decisions on issues that affect you. Once
councillors are elected they decide things such as
how schools, hospitals and buses are run. So it is
important that everyone has a say in who is
elected.Voting is the most important way to make
your voice heard on the issues that concern you.
Decisions are made on your behalf every day,
ranging from what is happening in local schools
and what recreational facilities you have, to
national issues like healthcare and education, to
global issues like defence and the environment.
But having the right to vote is not enough.A
strong and stable democracy also relies on people
using their votes. By voting, you can hold your
elected representatives accountable.
Voting is central to the way in which our
democracy works.Yet the last UK general election
in 2001 saw a big drop in turnout - down from
71.4% to 59.4%. Fewer than six out of every ten
eligible voters across the UK decided to take part
in choosing the country's government for the
next five years.
Young Voters' Website
Research shows that young people are amongst
Carlie Beavan, 18, a student at Coleg Gwent's Pontypool campus,
thinks it's important that young people use their vote. She writes:
the groups least likely to vote or register to vote.
At the 2001 general election, it is estimated that
only 39% of young people used their vote.The
Electoral Commission is working with
organisations representing young people to
develop long-term strategies for encouraging
young people to participate in elections and the
wider democratic process.
www.votesarepower.com
The Electoral Commission
The Electoral Commission is an independent body
set up by the UK Parliament in November 2000.
Its aim is to increase public confidence in the
democratic process within the United Kingdom -
and encourage people to take part - by
modernising the electoral process, promoting
public awareness of electoral matters, and
regulating political parties.Visit
www.electoralcommission.org.uk
How can I find out what each party or
candidate stands for?
Parties and candidates often address the same
issues, but their policies will nearly always differ.
Before elections, parties and individual candidates
will produce a manifesto which will tell you what
they believe in, what their priorities are and what
they will do if they get elected.
How can I get involved?
Councillors,Assembly Members, MPs, and
Members of the European Parliament represent
the people living in their areas at different levels.
When decisions are being made they are there to
put your views across. If you have something to
say, let your representatives know about it.You
can write to them, go along to a 'surgery' or
organise a petition.These are just some of the
ways to get your view across. If you want to be
involved yourself, you'll find that many political
parties will welcome your support and will have
opportunities for you to help out. If you're over
21 you can stand as a candidate yourself.
Did you know . . . that anyone can stand for
election as a Councillor if they meet criteria
concerning nationality, age, and where they live,
work or own land or property? If you’re
interested in standing for election, call
Democratic Services on 01495 166077.
YOUNG VOTER
I have recently turned 18.What seemed like an eternity of waiting, has actually
rushed by and now I am faced with the reality of what coming of age really
means. I can now purchase alcohol, get married without parental consent and
will be able to possess an adult bank card. I will be old enough to gamble
almost anywhere in the UK and will be open to financial offers, such as
opening new accounts with various retail stores. I have reached the age where
I am legally an adult and have to start taking full responsibility for my own
Carlie Beavan is
doings. It is a frightening but certainly exciting idea. One of the most
looking forward to
important responsibilities in my opinion is having the opportunity to vote.This is voting for the first
a huge responsibility as I am beginning to view the world as an adult and it
time
means I can contribute to making decisions that could improve my overall
standard of living.Voting will give me the chance to have my say, to make important thorough-thought
choices and to help my country as a whole.The UK is a democracy, which means I have freedom of
thought and am allowed to give my opinion on any issue. I can do this through voting and I see this as a
wonderful prospect. I won't be wasting my chance to voice my views as surely this would be depreciating
my right to democracy. Don't waste your chance to have your say.
What the Council does for YOU…..
To find out more read the diary of Anthea Jones, aged 38 ½,
THURSDAY 10 JUNE 2004
The Council grits roads when ice is
expected. Staff work outside normal
hours to try and ensure that the roads
are as safe and ice free as possible.
The Council collects rubbish
from every household. It also
encourages recycling to cut
down on what's sent to landfill.
The Council
provides Leisure
Centres.
Phew! Another exhausting day. Not sure I can go on at this pace much longer.
I chatted to Mike, my husband, over breakfast about the local roads. He says the
traffic is getting worse and he wants to see more money being spent on roads. I'm
glad it's Summer as I hate driving during the Winter. He's also worried now about
the future of the small engineering business he works for on an industrial estate in
Cwmbran. He just hopes they survive the current difficulties.
Rachel, my nine year-old, pulled the bedclothes over her head and said she wasn't going to school
today. She says growing up is exhausting and that I am too old to understand! I Put the rubbish out. Lots of
people are moaning about the speed bumps around the primary school but I think they are excellent and stop cars
going too fast.
The Council is responsible for
enforcement of food safety standards and
visits food businesses to ensure that
standards of hygiene are maintained.
The Council pays for
residential care places
for those who need it.
The Council provides homes, including
sheltered housing. The new
HOMEFINDER scheme gives tenants a
choice of where they want to live. The
Council provides housing benefit for
tenants helping them to pay their rent.
The Council decides whether
planning permission should be
granted for new buildings and
other developments.
The Council provides Disabled
Facilities Grants to help individuals
adapt their homes to make them more
suitable for people with mobility
problems or other disabilities.
The Council has refurbished
Cwmbran Stadium.
Anyone can now apply for a postal
vote. You don't need any special
reason, it could help save you time on
election day. If you would like a postal
vote phone 01495 766077.
The Council maintains open spaces
for use by the public. It has a joint
Community Safety Team working in
partnership with the Police which
takes initiatives to try and improve
Community Safety including tackling
anti-social behaviour.
Off to work at the Leisure Centre. After work I went shopping. After a busy few
hours I met a friend for a bite to eat in a café.
Went to see my Nan on the way home. The Home Carers and Meals on Wheels had
visited her. I'm worried that she is finding it hard to cope at home and might have to go into
Residential Care. I decided I would talk to my mum and see whether Nan might be able to
move in with her. I had a chat with mum on the phone before I went to pick up
the kids. She was complaining about her bus being late when she went down to
the Customer Care centre to pay her Council tax. She also paid the rent for Nan
and asked about her housing benefit. Mum was worried about a plot of land up
the road from her as some notices had gone up about it. She thinks someone
wants to build on it. My Dad has used the footpath across the land for years and
there are some beautiful old trees on the site. I discussed with Mum whether Nan
might go to live with her. She pointed out that her house wasn't really suitable but I
did say that I thought there were some grants available. Mum mentioned her
neighbour's granddaughter is getting married in October in Pontypool.
Mum asked me if I was going to vote today. I had completely forgotten it was
Election Day although we did have something through the post. She gave me a lecture
about the Suffragettes and how hard they had fought to get the vote and she said I
owed a duty to use it. I promised her I would.
Got the kids home then took Rachel to the Stadium. Mike arrived home from work
and said he had meeting at the Community Hall, which was important because they were
going to talk about having a bar! I reminded Mike it was Election Day. He said it was
a waste of time and that nothing the Council did affected us.
I argued the opposite, pointing out that they provided the school, the roads,
employed me, Nan's house, Rachael's sports, Nan's home carer and the Community Hall
he was about to go to. That made him think!
I went to vote as promised. Surprisingly, when Mike got home he had also voted. The
Hall Committee had decided they would try and get a bar licence when the new
Licensing Laws come in. Mike said that people had stopped complaining about
the teenagers who were hanging out in the open space next to the Community
Hall. The Council has provided a Youth Shelter up the road which seemed to be
doing the job.
Wrote diary and went to bed. Thank goodness tomorrow is Friday.
The Council repairs and maintains
Torfaen's roads. Councillors decide
how much of the Council's resources
are spent on road maintenance and
improvement.
The Council supports
businesses with grants
and renting out units on
industrial estates.
The Council has spent money on
speed bumps and 20 mph speed
zones around primary schools.
The Council has secured the
development of a Tesco store on the
Top Car Park site in Pontypool and is
working with the Welsh Development
Agency to have other shops built
which will bring major retailers like
Peacocks and Argos to the town.
The Council provides home care for
older people and disabled people to
enable them to live independently in
their own homes and arranges for
Meals on Wheels to be delivered, by
volunteers, to people who need them.
The Council does not provide
buses but subsidises some routes,
particularly those which are less
profitable. The Council sets the
rate of Council tax. Customer Care
Centres have opened in Cwmbran
and Pontypool where residents can
pay their rent and council tax.
The Council is responsible for public
footpaths and is also responsible for the
protection of trees which are especially
significant. It can protect trees by
making Tree Preservation Orders.
The Council has a Registry Office in
Pontypool for marriages and
supervises the work of the Registrars
in registering births and deaths.
Later this year, the Council will be
taking over responsibility for licensing
pubs and bars. The Council provides
Community Halls which are important
venues for meetings of local
organisations and many social activities.
ROLLING REGISTRATION FORM
You must be on the electoral register to vote at elections.You are not automatically registered, even if you pay Council Tax. If
you're not registered, if you're moving home, or if you're turning 18 between now and an election, you need to register to vote.
Electoral Registration Form
Only one person for each form. If you need more forms, please photocopy this form, contact the electoral registration team on
01495 766077 or visit the website www.rollingregistration.co.uk. Please write in black ink and use BLOCK LETTERS.
Please return completed forms to: Elections Team,Torfaen Council, Civic Centre, Pontypool. NP4 6YB
1 About you
Surname
First Names (in full)
Title (Mr, Mrs, Ms, Miss, Dr, other)
If you are a European Union citizen (other than British
or Irish Republic), please say which country you are
from.
2 Current address
Number of flat, bedsit or floor (where appropriate)
Number of house (or name if not numbered)
Name of road or street
County
3 Declaration
Please read the following carefully as it is an offence to give false information on this form.
As far as I know, the details on this form are true and accurate. I am a British citizen, a citizen of the Republic of
Ireland or a citizen of another European Union country. I am currently living at the address shown in part 2
Signature Date
4 Other information
Address where you were previously registered to vote
Postcode
Local Council (if known)
If you previously lived in the UK, were you registered
to vote? Yes…. No…..
Polling District:
Elector number:
For Office Use Only
If you are 16 or 17 years old, please give your date of
birth
D M Y
If you are 70 years old in the next year, please give
your date of birth
D M Y
Postcode
Tick here if you do not want your details to be
available on the edited register for general sale
Email
Daytime telephone or mobile
Your name will be taken off the register for your
previous address. However, if you believe you should
still also be registered at your old address, please say
why below.
Tick here to receive information on voting by
post or proxy (someone else voting for you).
Date received:
Date added:

CORDELL’S INSPIRATION
LIVES ON
Alexander Cordell, one of Wales’ most popular and
prolific writers, continues to have an impact on the
communities that his writings were based on. In the
past few months, a painting of Cordell has been
unveiled; items relating to the author have been
donated to the Blaenafon museum; and a travel writing
competition has been launched in his honour.
The Alexander Cordell Literature Competition has
over £1,000 in prize money. Cordell honed his own
writing skills by entering a competition run by the
South Wales Argus, which in 1957, offered a prize for
‘the most interesting literary project’. Cordell’s
submission contained extracts from Rape of the Fair
Country, which was published two years later and
became an international best seller. The competition is
part of the Cordell Country Tourism Initiative and is
supported by a number of local authorities across
South Wales. It is being sponsored by the South Wales
Argus, there are two categories, one is for a piece of
travel writing about Cordell Country, the other is open
to school pupils aged 11-18. Closing date for entries is
30th April 2004. Application forms are available from
01495 792615 or www.cordellcountry.org
Roy Guy, a local artist, has allowed the Blaenafon
Community Heritage & Cordell Museum to display his
portrait of Alexander Cordell. The portrait depicts
various aspects of Cordell’s life including his childhood,
his family and the people and landscapes he wrote
about. The painting was recently unveiled by
Councillor John Marshall,Torfaen Council’s Executive
Member for the Environment.
In 1988,Alexander Cordell attended the dedication
of a stone at St Woolos Church in memory of the ten
Chartists killed in 1839. Leon Gardiner, was at that
time Mayor of Islwyn Council, and also attended the
ceremony. Mr Gardiner has kindly donated items from
this ceremony to the Blaenafon Community Heritage &
Cordell Museum. He recently visited the museum with
a good crowd of friends for the official hand-over of
Page 6
TASTY MOVES
Councillor John Marshall, right, unveils the
Cordell portrait with artist Roy Guy
the items. Everyone was impressed by the Cordell
collection and inspired by the work of the Community
Heritage Group and the Tourism Team at Torfaen
Council. The items donated include the ‘Order of
Service’, the luncheon menu, photographs from the
ceremony and a book signed by Cordell. These will be
added to the huge collection of Alexander Cordell
memorabilia already on display at the museum.
A set of six leaflets have been produced for visitors
to Cordell Country. There are four colourful tour
guides based on Cordell’s most popular Welsh novels; a
leaflet detailing Cordell’s life and work; and a guide to
places to stay in Cordell Country. There are also audio
tour cassettes and information panels at the start of
each tour. To get a copy of these leaflets, contact the
Torfaen Tourist Information Centre on 01495 792615
or email: Blaenavon.ironworks@btopenworld.com.
The Blaenafon Community Heritage & Cordell
Museum is located next to Blaenafon Library. Their
winter opening times are Monday,Tuesday,Thursday,
10am until 4pm, and Saturday 10am until 1pm. Closed
1pm-2pm.There is a small entrance fee of £1. For
further information, contact the museum on 07930
719110.
A celebration of ethnic food and dance is taking place in Thornhill, Cwmbran during June. It'll be
chance to learn some fun dance moves to keep fit and even find out how to cook a healthy curry.To
find out more see the next edition of Torfaen Talks or call 01633 838063
SOCIAL WORK- COULD IT BE A JOB FOR YOU?
Nearly 2500 vulnerable adults and children across Torfaen are
being supported by social services.This issue of Torfaen Talks
looks at the role of a social worker:
What is a social worker?
A social worker is someone who works with people and
families to enable them to keep control of their lives.Their
main aim is to help people live successfully within their local
communities.
The most important job of a social worker is to give advice
and provide support. This involves acting as the voice of
people who can't always speak for themselves. Social workers
also offer counselling and for many people the opportunity to
talk to someone who really listens.They often help people
through life changing events.
Who would want to be a social worker?
If you like working with people and making a difference, this
may be the job for you. It's a job that's both challenging and
very rewarding.
Photo posed by models
How can someone become a social worker?
Anyone interested in this role can take a three-year degree in Social Work.Young people under18 need to
complete a preliminary course, such as a NVQ in health and social care or a modern apprenticeship.
Are there any further career prospects?
You can become a senior practitioner leading on to a team manager position. Most Directors of Social Services
started out as front line staff, so if you want you can get to the top.
For information on careers in social work in Torfaen contact Julie Hicks on 01633 648593 or log on to
www.socialworkcareers.co.uk
If you need us, call 01495 762200
MEET YOUR
COUNCILLOR
ABERSYCHAN WARD -
Councillor Gwyneira Clark
01495 773737
Councillor Doug Davies 01495 775118
Councillor Ken Clark 01495 773073
Please telephone to arrange an
appointment
BLAENAVON WARD -
Councillor Stuart Evans
Third Friday of every month*
Blaenavon Workmen’s Hall
7pm - 8.30pm
Councillor Neil Lewis and Councillor
Brian Whitcombe
First Friday of every month*
Blaenavon Workmen’s Hall 6pm - 7pm
BRYNWERN WARD -
Councillor Jack Everson 01495 758656
Please telephone to arrange an
appointment
COED EVA -
Councillor Agnes MacGill
First Saturday of each month*
Hollybush and Coed Eva Community Hall
10am-12noon
CROESYCEILIOG NORTH -
Councillor Jim Davies 01633 866475
Councillor Sarah Richards
01633 485495
Please telephone to arrange an
appointment
CROEYCEILIOG SOUTH -
Councillor Marlene Thomas
01633 485067
Please telephone to arrange an
appointment
CWMYNYSCOY -
Councillor Neil Waite and Community
Councillor Percy Williams
First Saturday of every month*
Cwmynyscoy Community Centre
10.30am - 12 noon
FAIRWATER -
Councillor Bill King
First Saturday of every month
SWAP Office (17 Fairwater Square)
10.30am – 12pm
Councillor Brian Smith 01633482757
Available most Sundays 10.30-12.30
GREENMEADOW -
Councillor Rose Seabourne
Councillor Bob Wellington
First Saturday of every month*
Greenmeadow and St Dials Community
Hall, Pandy, Greenmeadow
9.30am - 12 noon
LLANTARNAM -
Councillor Jack Hughes 01633 860803
Please telephone to arrange an
appointment
Councillor Barbara Ryan
01633 876001
Please telephone to arrange an
appointment or home visit.
LLANYRAFON NORTH -
Councillor Glyn Caron 01633 871047
Please telephone to arrange an
appointment
LLANYRAFON SOUTH -
Councillor Margaret Pead
01633 482685
Please telephone to arrange an
appointment
NEW INN LOWER/UPPER -
Councillors Helen Ford, Maurice
Morgan and John Turner
First Saturday of every month*
Family Learning Centre,
The Highway, New Inn 10am - 12 noon
PANTEG -
Councillors Gwilliam Evans and
Norma Parrish
Second Saturday of every month*.
Sebastopol Labour Hall- May 2003
Griffithstown Labour Hall- June 2003
and alternating each month* thereafter.
11am - 12noon.
Councillor Kathleen Williams
01495 753778
Please telephone to arrange an
appointment
PONTNEWYDD -
Councillors Gwyn Coles, Margaret
Howell,Aneurin B James
First Saturday of the month*
Mount Pleasant Hall
from January 2002 onwards
10.30am - 12 noon
PONTNEWYNYDD -
Councillor Ron Jones 01495 750238
Please telephone to arrange an
appointment at Cllr Jones’ home
PONTYPOOL -
Councillor Lyn Irwin
Third Friday of every month*
St Matthew’s Church Hall, Blaendare
Fourth Friday of every month*
Civic Centre, Pontypool
Both surgeries 11am-1pm
ST DIALS -
Councillor Mervyn Reece
01633 770364
Councillor Kath Edmunds
01633 838144
Please telephone to arrange an
appointment
ST CADOCS/PENYGARN -
Councillor Michael Davies
01495 756134
Please telephone to arrange an
appointment
SNATCHWOOD -
Councillor G Ivor Davies
01495 755706
Please telephone to arrange an
appointment
TREVETHIN -
Councillor Jones 01495 756950
mobile 07980 682014
Councillor Marshall 01495 755812
mobile 07980 682011
Please telephone to arrange an
appointment
TWO LOCKS -
Councillors W Stuart Cameron,Anita
Lloyd & Colette A Thomas
First Saturday of every month*
Hollybush and Coed Eva Community Hall
10am - 12 noon
UPPER CWMBRAN -
Councillors Fred Bacon, Mary Barnett
& John Cunningham
First Saturday of every month*
Housing Office, Maendy Way Shopping
Centre, West Pontnewydd, and also
Thornhill Community Centre,Thornhill
10am - 12 noon
WAINFELIN -
Councillor Yvonne Warren and
Community Councillor M Jeremiah
First Saturday of every month*
St John’s Church 10.30am - 12 noon
For other appointments contact Cllr
Warren any time on 01495 752180.
* Excluding August.
www.torfaen.gov.uk

NEWS
IN BRIEF
A talk to highlight the symptoms and treatment of
prostate cancer takes place in March.The third
Mervyn More Memorial Lecture, named to honour a
member of the Progress Prostate Cancer group, who
passed away in 2001, has been organised in County
Hall, Cwmbran on Friday 19 March. It’s a free event
designed to raise awareness of prostate cancer, an
area of health many men know very little about.
To reserve your seat please call Sue Hughes, Mayoral
Support Officer, on 01495 766068.
Heart and circulatory disease is the UK's biggest
killer. It kills over 250,000 people every year - four in
ten of all deaths. It can affect anyone at any time -
baby or grandparent, postman or politician.The
British Heart Foundation (BHF) is dedicated to
teaching children from an early age the importance of
looking after their heart. To help get the message
across the BHF have an extensive range of
educational resources available for use in schools. The
BHF are looking for volunteers who can spare a few
hours a week to visit schools to tell them about these
materials and promote the BHF and its activities.
The BHF will provide support and training, pay travel
and incidental expenses and you will be part of a
dynamic network of volunteers helping to fight heart
disease. If you are interested, please call Glenda
Meakin, BHF Area Organiser on 029 2089 0148
On Sunday 28 March the High Sheriff will be holding
a charity concert at Blaenavon Workman's Hall. This
event is in aid of the Gwent Shrievalty Police Trust
and to mark the retirement of Keith Turner, Gwent
Police's Chief Constable.Taking part in the concert
will be the Greater Gwent Youth Brass Band and
Blaenavon's Male voice choir.Tickets £6.
Work has begun on a project to transform Coleg
Gwent in Pontypool.The project, costing £2.77
million, is a major redevelopment of the college to
provide better learning facilities and a more pleasant
environment. Plans for the college include a new
entrance area, more classrooms and a video
conference room. It is hoped the project will
modernise the campus with fashionable architecture
and the introduction of new technology such as PC's
with flat screen monitors.
LEARN SOMETHING NEW
Here's a selection of education courses starting soon in Torfaen.
Fees £1.00 per hour, concessions for those in receipt of benefit
Course Title Day Time Duration Start Date
Craft - Try Something New Wed 19.00-21.00 12 wks 21/04/04
CROESYCEILIOG Community Education Centre - 01633 485052
Wine Expertise Mon 19.00-21.00 12 wks 21/04/04
Introduction to Welsh Wed 10.00-12.00 12 wks 21/04/04
General Craft Wed 19.00-21.00 12 wks 21/04/04
Introduction to GCSE- Study Skills Thur 19.00-21.00 12 wks 22/04/04
Advanced Features of the Sewing Machine Fri 10.00-12.00 12 wks 23/04/04
Classes held at ATC,The Highway - Contact Croesyceiliog CEC
CLAIT Workshop Tues 10.00-12.00 12 wks 20/04/04
Computerised Accounts Levels 1 or 2 Tues 13.00-15.00 12 wks 20/04/04
LLANTARNAM Comprehensive School - Contact Croesyceiliog CEC
CLAIT Thur 18.30-20.30 12 wks 22/04/04
PONTNEWYDD Community Education Centre - 01633 482345
Welsh 1 Mon 10.00-12.00 10 wks 08/03/04
FAIRWATER High School - contact Pontnewydd CEC
Making the Most of the Garden Thur 19.00-21.00 12 wks 22/04/04
NEW INN Family Learning Centre - 01495 763503
Patchwork & Quilting Tues 10.00-12.00 10 wks 09/03/04
Introduction to Homeopathy tba Tba 12 wks March
CLAIT Plus Tues 09.30-12.30 16 wks 09/03/04
Computer Art Wed 09.30-11.30 12 wks 21/04/04
CLAIT Thur 10.00-12.00 16 wks 11/03/04
Know Your Rights - Consumer Info Mon 19.00-21.00 12 wks April
Prepare for GCSE -Study Skills Tues 19.00-21.00 12 wks April
Patchwork & Quilting Wed 19.00-21.00 10 wks 10/03/04
Stress Management Thur 19.00-20.30 15 wks 18/03/04
Dog Training Fri 18.00-19.30 12 wks 27/02/04
Computerised Accounts Levels 1 & 2 Tues 19.00-21.00 12 wks 20/04/04
Desktop Publishing - Advanced Wed 12.30-15.30 16 wks 10/03/04
CLAIT Workshop Thur 12.30-14.30 16 wks 11/03/04
Digital Video Editing Fri 18.30-20.30 12 wks 23/04/04
FIRST AID & FOOD HYGIENE COURSES
First Aid - Sports Medic Sat 2 wks 10.00-16.00 06/03/04 Pontypool CEC
First Aid - Basic Sat 1 wk 10.00-16.00 13/03/04 New Inn FLC
START THE SCHOOL
THE BEST POSSIBLE WAY
School children in Cwmbran are being encouraged to start their
day the best possible way with a healthy breakfast. Staff from
Torfaen Council's schools' catering team promoted National
Breakfast Week in three schools. Pupils from Oakfield primary
school, Coed-Eva infants school and Coed Eva junior were invited
to come in early and enjoy a selection of breakfasts. Goodies on
the menu included cereal, toast with honey, plus lots of fresh fruit
and freshly squeezed orange juice.
Councillor Marlene Thomas, Chair of the Contract Services
Board who run the Schools Catering Service, said: "This gave our
staff a chance to show off the many fun foods that you can eat for
breakfast."
DECHRAU'R YSGOL YN
Y MODD GORAU POSIB
Mae disgyblion yng Nghwmbrân yn cael eu hannog i ddechrau eu
diwrnod yn y modd gorau posib gyda brecwast iachus.
Hyrwyddodd staff o dîm arlwyo ysgolion Cyngor Torfaen Wythnos
Frecwast Genedlaethol mewn tair ysgol. Gwahoddwyd disgyblion
o ysgol gynradd Oakfield, ysgol fabanod Coed Efa ac ysgol iau
Coed Efa i ddod i'r ysgol yn gynnar a mwynhau dewis o
frecwastau. Ymhlith y danteithion ar y fwydlen yr oedd grawnfwyd,
tost a mêl, a llawer o ffrwythau a sudd oren ffres.
Dywedodd y Cynghorydd Marlene Thomas, Cadeirydd y
Bwrdd Gwasanaethau Cytundeb sy'n rhedeg y Gwasanaeth Arlwyo
Ysgolion: "Rhoddodd hyn gyfle i'n staff ddangos y gwahanol
fwydydd hwyl y gellir eu bwyta i frecwast."
Ben, who is using his experiences to
dissuade other from drugs
Councillor John Turner, Executive Member for Education, said:
"A good healthy breakfast helps children concentrate in lessons.
We want them to start the day with a proper breakfast."
Councillor John Turner chatted to pupils and
parents at Coed-Eva junior school
Sgwrsiodd y Cynghorydd John Turner gyda
disgyblion a rhieni yn ysgol iau Coed Efa
Dywedodd y Cynghorydd John Turner,Aelod Gweithredol dros
Addysg: "Mae brecwast da ac iachus yn helpu plant i ganolbwyntio
mewn gwersi. Rydym am iddynt ddechrau'r diwrnod gyda
brecwast iawn."
MUSICAL YOUTH
A unique Council project, Musical Youth, has been visiting schools and
youth groups, working with young people to write songs about
substance misuse. Musical Youth has also recruited volunteers with a
range of interests including song writing, performing and sound
engineering and youth work.
Ben Brumby, 22, from Cwmbran, has been working as a volunteer
specialising in sound engineering, based at Whiteoak Studio in
Crickhowell. Ben left education at an early age and had problems with
substance misuse, experiences he now uses to dissuade young people
from using drugs.
Ben said: "This project has given me the opportunity to discover
new interests, something to focus on for the future and a target to aim
for. My mum is supportive, she is happy seeing me do something that I
enjoy and I can use myself to make a positive contribution to others."
The future is looking bright for Ben. He is putting a demo CD
together and has future plans to study music technology at college.
Musical Youth has given young people the opportunity to
experience the professional recording industry.The songs will appear
on a 20 track CD later this year.The youngsters who appear on the
CD are performing in a live concert at Blaenavon Workingmen's Hall
on Saturday 19 June.Watch the local press for details.
The project is funded by the Home Office, Recovered Assets Fund.
First Aid - Basic Sat 1 wk 10.00-16.00 24/04/04 New Inn FLC
First Aid - Paediatric 2 wks 10.00-16.00 TBA Pontypool CEC
Food Hygiene - Basic Sat 1 wk 10.00-16.00 06/03/04 Blaenavon CEC
SATURDAY DAY SCHOOLS - £5 plus concessions. Those courses of more than 1 day will incur extra cost. Contact individual
centres to book your place.
Knit a Garment in a Day 1 day 10.00-16.00 06/03/04 Garndiffaith M Hall
C&G Workshops for Craft & Design 1 day 10.00-16.00 06/03/04 Pontypool CEC
Screen Printing 1 1 day 10.00-16.00 13/03/04 New Inn FLC
Easter Craft 1 day 10.00-16.00 20/03/04 Blaenavon CEC
Machine Knitting day 1 1 day 10.00-16.00 20/03/04 Garndiffaith
Machine Knitting day 2 1 day 10.00-16.00 27/03/04 Garndiffaith
Screen Printing 2 1 day 10.00-16.00 24/04/04 New Inn FLC
Summer Propagation 1 day 10.00-16.00 01/05/04 Pontypool CEC
Knit a Garment in a Day 1 day 10.00-16.00 08/05/04 Garndiffaith M Hall
Watercolours - Landscapes 1 day 10.00-16.00 08/05/04 Croesyceiliog CEC
Car Maintenance 1 day 10.00-16.00 08/05/04 Croesyceiliog CEC
Summer Craft 1 day 10.00-16.00 08/05/04 Blaenavon CEC
C&G Workshops for Craft & Design 1 day 10.00-16.00 22/05/04 Pontypool CEC
Fabric Painting 1 day 10.00-16.00 12/06/04 Croesyceiliog CEC
Design for Arts & Crafts 1 day 10.00-16.00 06/03/04 Pontypool CEC
Design on the Computer 1 day 10.00-16.00 06/03/04 Pontypool CEC
Introduction to Outdoor Pursuits - Sat/Sun 10.00-16.00 27/03/04 Gilwern
Map Reading & Hill Walking
Basics of Modern Embroidery 1 day 10.00-16.00 13/03/04 Croesyceiliog CEC
Advanced Modern Embroidery 1 day 10.00-16.00 22/05/04 Croesyceiliog CEC
Fashion Embroidery 1 day 10.00-16.00 22/05/04 Croesyceiliog CEC
Fabric Flowers 1 day 10.00-16.00 13/03/04 Croesyceiliog CEC
Memento Book Making 1 day 10.00-16.00 27/03/04 Croesyceiliog CEC
Instant Spring Hanging Basket Day 1 day 10.00-16.00 06/03/04 Pontypool CEC
Summer Hanging Basket Day 1 day 10.00-16.00 08/05/04 Blaenavon CEC
Reach For IT- Interested in FREE IT classes after Easter? Contact 01495 775630.
Calling all Trevethin and Penygarn residents. Come along and have a look at your brand new IT and Essential Skills
facility at The Communities First Resource Centre (near the shops).To book a place or find out more about 0800
783 7598.
PARENTSPLUS, FREE classes with FREE creche if you are; Between 16 and 64, Resident in Torfaen and unemployed
or working less than 16 hrs each week If you would like to know more about how you could take advantage of
the opportunities call 0800 753 7598.
www.torfaen.gov.uk If you need us, call 01495 762200 Page 7

SUPPORT FOR TORFAEN’S
SPORTING STARS
A scheme that gives free access to Council leisure centres for
promising sportsmen and women is proving a big hit.The Talent
ID scheme gives support and encouragement by letting them
train for free. Sports people, including those with disabilities, who
are members of a national team or squad or are listed in the top
ten of national age group rankings can apply for a card.
Councillor Lewis Jones, Executive Member for Leisure and
Young People, said:“2004 is the year of the Olympics when we’ll
see the World’s best compete for gold medals.Talent ID will help
Torfaen’s up-and-coming sports stars strive to be the best like the
Olympic winners. It means money is not a barrier to getting
access to the top training facilities that we are lucky to have here
in Torfaen.”
Jeff Harwood coaches Cwmbran Harriers’ at the Stadium.
Many of the Harriers’ athletes are on Talent ID. He said:“It means
they can train twice a week on the track and once a week on the
weights without costing a penny. It saves them about £200 a year.
When a competition is coming up, I can say ‘get down here for
extra training on Saturday’ and money isn’t a problem.”
Simon Thompson, 17, recently put in two personal bests in
Page 8
FIGHTING FOR THE MAYOR
An amateur boxing show is being held in May to raise cash for the Mayor of
Torfaen’s charity appeal. It’s being held in Cwmbran Stadium on Friday 7 May
and tickets are on sale now. It costs £25 a ticket, which includes a three
course dinner (£250 for a table of ten), or £5 for spectators.
Councillor Doug Davies said:“This has been a popular event for quite a few
years now. I’d like to thank Pontypool and Panteg ABC for their continued
support and help to organise it.”
The Mayor’s three charities are The Noah’s Ark Appeal, Progress Prostate Cancer Support and the
South Gwent Breast Cancer Support Group.
For tickets call Sue Hughes, mayoral support officer, on 01495 766069.
SHOW BOGUS CALLERS THE DOOR
Following a number of bogus caller incidents
last year in Torfaen, Gwent Police is promoting
the Nominated Neighbour Scheme. It’s aimed at
older people to prevent them from becoming
prey to bogus callers, who sometimes pose as
meter readers or gardeners to gain entry and
steal money or valuables.
The police suggest that a vulnerable person,
maybe a pensioner living alone, should nominate
a neighbour who can deal with unknown or
unexpected visitors who arrive at their door. A
yellow card (like the one pictured) can be used
to direct visitors to a neighbour who can check
that the caller is genuine.
If callers are genuine, they will not have any
problem with their identity being verified.
Gwent Police stress that most people who
call at your door will be genuine, but urge
people to be alert. Their most important advice
is, if you are in any doubt about the identity of a
caller, don’t let them in.
When there is an unexpected knock at the
door, police advise the “Stop, Chain, Check”
method. Firstly, stop and think whether you are
expecting a caller, then secure your door with a
chain before opening it.Then it is vital that you
fully check the identity card of the caller. Do
they look like the person in the photo? Get a
telephone number from a recent utility bill,
don’t use the number on the identity card., and
call the company.
from BRIAN SMITH:
the Wales 60m and 200m finals. He said:“It’s simple, you fill in a
form and send it off.”
Tom Bradbury, 14, won two silver medals in the Wales under
15 200m and 60m events. He said:“My coach said it would save
money, and you get in to the Stadium quicker as you don’t have
to queue at reception.”
Eleven-year-old Thomas Williams is the Wales under 13
indoor 200m title holder and set a new Welsh record to win
gold. His dad Simon said:“Talent ID is a great thing.They walk
past the till and flash their card which makes them feel special.
They all work hard and deserve it.”
A table tennis star who takes advantage of Talent ID with free
table hire at Cwmbran Stadium is Adam Draper, 11. He became
Welsh champion in 2002 and has competed in France, Belgium,
Luxemburg, Ireland and Germany.
Anyone who would like to apply for Talent ID should call
Stuart Lawrence on 01633 628963 or Christine Philpott on
01633 628936 for an application form.
Nominated Neighbour scheme packs are
available free of charge from your local Police
Station, or by contacting Gwent Police’s
Community Safety Department on 01633
838111.
The Bobby Van Scheme provides a free lock
and security fitting to older vulnerable people
and can be contacted on 01633 254091.
Plans for the regeneration of Pontypool
have been boosted by the news that Gwent
Association for the Blind is transforming a
run-down building bordering Pontypool
Park and moving their HQ to the site. At
the moment they are based on an industrial
estate in New Inn. But thanks to a £250,000
grant from the Bradbury Foundation Trust
they have confirmed that by Spring 2005
their new home will be Park Cottages.
Torfaen Council own the building, which is
next to Pontypool Museum, and have agreed
to help Gwent Association for the Blind by
granting a long lease to the charity to allow
it to occupy and refurbish the premises.
They chose Pontypool as it has good
transport links with towns throughout Gwent.This
will make it easier for blind and visually impaired
people who have to use buses and trains.The
centre, which at the moment attracts around 2000
visitors to New Inn, is also bringing 16 members of
staff to Pontypool.
Pam Dennis, from Gwent Association for the
WARM WELCOME
GUARANTEED
The Tourist Information Centre (TIC) at
Blaenavon Ironworks will be opening for the new
season on Monday 5 April.The staff are ready to
welcome visitors to Torfaen, serving both the
local community, and those visiting from further
afield.
Located in the former pay-office at Blaenavon
Ironworks, the TIC provides information on days
out, attractions, activities and route planning in
the area. They also offer guided tours of the
Ironworks, as well as researching family histories.
They are open from 9:30am until 4:30pm, Monday
to Friday; 10am until 5pm, Saturday; and 10am
until 4:30pm on Sunday, up until the end of
October.
The staff have planned a variety of events at
LEADER’S CHALLENGE
If you need us, call 01495 762200
Thomas Williams gets ready to sprint with
the rest of Cwmbran Harriers’Talent ID stars
NEW HOME FOR GWENT
BLIND ASSOCIATION
LEADER OF TORFAEN COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL
Dear Friends,
I hope you have enjoyed reading about what the Council has been doing in recent editions of Torfaen Talks Community. I know that some of you will
feel we could be doing more, or doing it better, or just differently! Let me invite you to let us know what you think, to get involved in any way you can
in the way your community and your services are shaping up.We really do want to know what you think and work with you for a better future for us
all.
Write to me at: Leader's Challenge, Freepost, SWC3348. Pontypool, NP4 6ZZ
(no stamp needed)
Park Cottages, Pontypool Park
Blind, said: "Many of our visitors have guide dogs so
once they've been here they can go for a walk in
Pontypool Park or shop in the town.This is why
we chose Pontypool. I am very grateful for all the
work that Torfaen Council has put in."
Gwent Association for the Blind can be called
on 01495 763650.
the Information Centre throughout 2004, look
out for details in the press, or visit the TIC
website, www.blaenavontic.com.
Call 01495 792615, email:
blaenavon.ironworks@btopenworld.com; or visit
the website: www.blaenavontic.com
Torfaen’s Tourist Information Centre
www.torfaen.gov.uk