Llanelli Area News Blog

2010-03-12T14:04:00.000Z

Turning Point Cymru Prepares To Launch New Project In Pembrey

Turning Point Cymru, a charity that helps people overcome a range of challenges and turn around their lives, is to launch a project in Pembrey.

Building on the tremendous success of the Carmarthenshire Life Skills Project (CLSP), Project Tyfu will provide activities and training programmes for its service users. These aim to promote healthy lifestyles and will create opportunities for people to work in the open air, developing skills in gardening, landscaping and horticulture.

Schemes like the CLSP, can offer people a second chance, giving them the opportunity to transform the quality of their life and that of the people around them. Andrew Soroka, Service Manager at Turning Point Cymru, notes;

“The Carmarthenshire Life Skills Project has been hugely successful in helping people to turn their lives around. It’s such an important final stepping stone for people during the difficult time between leaving early intervention/detox services and meaningful re-engagement with their communities.”

The Carmarthenshire Life Skills Project, which is financed by the Big Lottery Fund to assist people who have experienced alcohol problems, has had a considerable impact. Since starting in 2008, it has helped 26 service users back into employment, 36 into voluntary work and 89 into training and education. One service user praised the project, saying;

“CLSP has helped me tremendously - it's changed my life for the better in so many ways. I'm more confident, caring and assertive, I can cope with difficult situations and I feel that I've become the person I've always wanted to be.”

Turning Point believes that Project Tyfu will extend the opportunities provided by the CLSP and help many more people to transform their lives.

Community groups and local residents are invited to attend the launch, which will take place on the 9th April 2010, between 10.30 and 14.30. Parking is available near the site at Coed Rhyal, Pembrey and a minibus will run from Greenways Farming Supplies, Pembrey to Project Tyfu, every 15 minutes.

For further information please call, 01554 746176.

Reporter: Christopher Roberts

2010-03-10T21:36:00.007Z

Website Design At Llanellitown.com

Did you know the team here at Llanellitown.com can provide you and your organisation, with a purpose built website?

Over the last few months our in-house website design team have created websites for a range of local and Wales based organisations. Some of our recent clients include local charity, Breakthro Llanelli and Llywnhendy Communities First.

Jason Lovell, Llanellitown.com’s technical director and one of our website designers, notes:

“In the modern, multi-media environment it’s absolutely vital that businesses, charities and community groups have a presence on the internet. No matter how small your organisation is, having a website is a great way to keep people informed about the work it does and the services it provides, it’s also a fantastic way of raising its profile.”

Robin Burn, Chairman of Breakthro Llanelli, said:

“Breakthro are extremely pleased to have a website built by Llanellitown. Through consultation with their technical team, we were able to get an individualised site that matched our needs and looks very professional.”

So whether you represent a business, sports club, charity or community group, Llanellitown.com can help give you the online presence you need.

If you would like to know more about Llanellitown.com’s website design service, please contact us via the details below.

Email: info@llanellitown.com

Tel: 01554 778420

To take a look at Breakthro Llanelli’s site, please click here http://www.breakthrollanelli.org.uk/default.htm

Reporter: Christopher Roberts

2010-03-10T11:24:00.000Z

Llanelli Welcomes Lottery Award To Help Tackle Domestic Debt

Glanymor and Tyisha Communities First are celebrating a Lottery award which will help tackle domestic debt in the area.

The Communities First team, one of four run locally by Carmarthenshire County Council, has been awarded £4,868 from the Awards For All Wales funding pool for its work on a Debt and Benefit Volunteering Project.

The project, which is run by Communities First staff and local volunteers, has already made huge strides in the area.

Since it began in April 2009, volunteers and project staff have supported clients in the Llanelli area to tackle £358,199 of domestic debt, and have increased benefit income by £3,402 per month.

Bryony Wiffen, of the Llanelli Communities First Debt and Benefit Volunteering Project, said: “Work with clients is an ongoing process and the project links in with other support services in the area to try and help people get the most appropriate support.

“We are delighted that our bid for £4,868 of Lottery funding has been successful. This funding will help us to continue this good work, and to meet increasing demand. Our debt and benefit project staff are planning targeted recruitment events in the coming months in order to reach those who are most in need.”

The Debt and Benefit Volunteering Project is open to people living in Bigyn, Llwynhendy, Felinfoel, Glanymor and Tyisha areas – each of them Communities First wards.

It works closely with community groups and voluntary and statutory service providers to create a network of support for those suffering with debt problems, helping them to access benefits and providing them with opportunities to train for new skills.

It was funded by Carmarthenshire County Council and the Welsh Assembly Outcomes Fund.

Volunteer opportunities are available with free training to offer support to those struggling with debt, and also to give volunteers added skills and better chances of gaining long-term employment in the future.

Executive board member for regeneration, Cllr Clive Scourfield, said: “It is vitally important that we help people living in these areas to overcome debt problems and to help them gain new skills which will help them find meaningful employment so that they can provide for their own futures.”

Anyone interested in getting further information about the project, call Bryony or Christine on 01554 777850 or pop into the Glanymor and Tyisha office, Inkerman Street, Llanelli.

2010-03-06T11:57:00.004Z

Scarlets Triumph Over Ulster, 25 - 8

With a break from the Six Nations, all eyes could again focus on the Magners League. If the Scarlets could conjure up longer periods of their sometimes brilliant form, they could win. Ulster, for their part, arrived at Parc Y Scarlets determined to secure a semi-final Magners League place.

From the outset both sides tried to create opportunities with Ulster in particular using its formidable pack. Within five minutes the Scarlets scored a great try, when Joe Aujuwa followed up a high kick and headed towards the line before being tackled and releasing the ball to Fenby, who scored. Priestland duly converted.

Another try was to come when David Lyons peeled off, releasing Tavis Knoyle on the blind-side. Despite attempts to tackle Knoyle he split the defence, running to the line un-opposed. Both teams then exchanged penalties, with the Scarlets going in at half-time, 15 - 3 up.

The Ulstermen showed muscle and grit in the second-half, Paddy Wallace scoring an un-converted try. As Ulster closed down the game, the Scarlets struggled for possession and when they did move forward, Ulster used every tactic to minimise the Scarlet threat. Finally the referee intervened, eventually sin-binning two Ulster forwards by the games end.

In the 60th minute, following a prolonged effort by the Scarlets pack, Rhys Priestland scored a lovely try, side-stepping past the defence and doing the honours with a conversion.

The outstanding player on the evening was Tavis Knoyle, who made some superb breaks, distributed well and used the box-kick to good effect. Providing the Scarlets maintain this form, they should travel away confidently and look to secure qualification points for Europe.

Reporter

Christopher Roberts

Scarlets Seek League Points At Home Against Ulster

2010-03-03T10:39:00.003Z

Scarlets Head Coach Nigel Davies has said his side must be more clinical on Friday evening in a must win Magners League match at Parc y Scarlets against Ulster (5th March,1905 KO).

The Scarlets have three Wales internationals back on duty at Parc y Scarlets in the shape of centre Jonathan Davies, Ken Owens and Matthew Rees. Scrum half Martin Roberts has returned to the Scarlets for the rest of the Six Nations and starts on the bench this week.

After a narrow defeat at Leinster last week, the Scarlets need to gain some valuable Magners League points from their last seven games in the competition and boost their bid to climb the table and secure a place in Europe next season. With Ulster sixth in the Magners Table with five wins in the competition, to the Scarlets three, the home side know that this game is crucial to move them up the ranks and some fresh young talent will be hoping to show flashes of inspiration with the likes of 19 year-old scrum half Tavis Knoyle, 20-year-old full-back Dan Newton as well as strong and spirited winger Joe Ajuwa (26, former clubs London Welsh, Richmond), who has been playing for Llandovery RFC - all starting for the Scarlets on Friday night.

Regan King starts in his third game for the region after returning from a long-term hamstring injury along with Jon Davies at centre - who is released from training with Wales. Rhys Priestland takes the commanding role at fly-half with a mix of experience and youth in the forwards including a start for Newcastle Emyln's Josh Turnbull at no6 and joined by Richie Pugh who is back at flanker after an absence from the starting line-up for a few weeks. Lions and Wales star hooker Matthew Rees returns from injury and is on the bench with Ken Owens starting at hooker.

Scarlets Head Coach, Nigel Davies said: "Of course we are under no allusions what a hugely important game this one is, we are not hiding from it. We have just got to win this game."We were frustrated with the result out in Leinster - not in the manner of our performance which was positive, but that we let a game slip through our hands that we were in control of and had plenty of opportunities to finish off.

"We have to move forward within this transition period, they're a young group but we must learn lessons from these matches and improve."There is plenty about this squad, good structure, some very good individuals and there is great intent and effort and if we take our opportunities we will produce the results. It's about managing key moments and better communication on the pitch."

Davies added that competition for places, exemplified by having both Matthew Rees and Ken Owens as options at hooker, is something which the coaching set-up will look to create throughout the squad. "We are striving to make sure we have that competition right throughout the squad and it is getting better. To have two players like Ken and Matthew who offer slightly different games, is great for us. Matthew has a lot of experience, a real physical edge about him and he's exceptionally good in the set piece.

"And we have Ken who can come on to really energise and bring a great ball carrying game onto the field with him. Ken's work rate, energy and natural power to ball carry is superb and his line-out work and his scrum game is improving."

On the Scarlets opponents, Davies said: "Ulster have been doing very well, I've been impressed with their performances, they started slowly in the Magners but have really picked up their game recently and they have some good players in key positions - with a couple of good wingers.

"They have been rebuilding for a couple of years ago and it looks likes they have a good academy and good foundations to build off - they are very ambitious moving forward as their recruitment drive is starting to show."

The Scarlets squad is without wingers Morgan Stoddart (groin injury - six weeks) and Lee Williams who has a fractured eye socket and will be out for four weeks, centre Rob Higgitt (bicep tear) and forward Damian Welch (minor ankle injury). Other Scarlets on the long-term injury list include senior internationals Simon Easterby, Dafydd Jones and captain Mark Jones.

Scarlets selection v Ulster; Magners League 5th March 2010 (KO 1905) at Parc y Scarlets15 Dan Newton, 14 Joe Ajuwa, 13 Regan King, 12 Jonathan Davies 11 Andy Fenby, 10 Rhys Priestland, 9 Tavis Knoyle, 1 Iestyn Thomas, 2 Ken Owens, 3 Deacon Manu, 4 Lou Reed, 5 Dominic Day, 6 Josh Turnbull, 7 Richie Pugh 8 David Lyons (capt).Replacements: 16 Phil John, 17 Matthew Rees, 18 Rob McCusker, 19 Johnathan Edwards, 20 Martin Roberts, 21 Daniel Evans, 22 Gareth Maule

2010-02-27T22:21:00.002Z

International Honour For Llanelli Photographer

Llanelli-based photographer Terry Morris is proud to announce his work has been voted amongst the best in the world.

The 44-year-old has just received confirmation that one of his favourite images will be included in the prestigious Best of Worldwide Photographic Artists volume by acclaimed US publishers Kennedy.

It is his image of a south Wales miner, entitled End of Shift, which has been chosen amongst the best images taken by an international photographic artist.

“This is a huge honour,” he said.

“Although I’ve become well known for taking portraits of celebrities, this image I took in the Neath Valley is one of my favourites, and I am thrilled that it has been recognised at an international level.

“The collier in the photograph was one of the apprentices at a private mine in the Neath Valley, one of the few mines still working in Wales. He had just finished his shift and he was black with coal but had these steely blue eyes and the lighting was just right to capture his face.

“I think it’s a powerful portrait that embodies the essence of the South Wales miner.”
Morris, who has a studio in Dafen, Llanelli, has photographed some of Wales’ best-known names for his Cool Cymru collection, including Dame Shirley Bassey, Ryan Giggs, Charlotte Church, Ioan Gruffudd and Stereophonics lead singer Kelly Jones.

The collection is being shown at Llanelli Library on Monday, March 1st, as part of a three-month libraries campaign being run by Carmarthenshire County Council.

Chance to get on TV?

2010-02-21T16:30:00.004Z

Do you have anything unusual to exchange and are you 'a bit of a character'?

If so, then Rhodri Williams and Mari Lovgreen the hosts of new S4C show Cyfnewid would like you to come to Parc y Scarlets on Sunday the 28th of February at 10.30am.

Cyfnewid is all about exchanging old items for new and there’s hardly anything that you can’t Exchange; clothes, films, curtains, crockery old or new, a haircut for a wall painted, a board game for a computer game.

For more information go to www.S4C.co.uk/cyfnewid or contact the
Cyfnewid Team on 029 20590117 or heledd.angharad@boomerang.co.uk

New TV Programme Comes to Llanelli

2010-02-21T16:20:00.003Z

Do you have clothes in the wardrobe that no longer fit? Is that bike in the hallway too small for your child? Are those CD’s a waste of space now you have an MP3?

If so,then why not exchange them for things you DO want, without spending a penny?!

Rhodri Williams and Mari Lovgreen are the hosts of Cyfnewid, a new S4C program where people exchange their unwanted items for other new or used items. The series is traveling around Wales, and on Sunday the 28th of February they are coming to Llanelli!

The event will be held at Parc y Scarlets, Llanelli. The event will start at 10.30am, and everyone is welcome to take part.

You can exchange virtually anything. Clothing, films, curtains, crockery old or new, a board game for a computer game, everything is welcome. This is a great chance to “strike a bargain” and to get value for money without the hassle of buying or selling anything.

Services may also be exchanged. For example: you might receive a hair cut in return for painting someone's wall. In addition to this, every week there will be an opportunity for a local person to exchange their favorite recipe for another they would like to learn. If you have a recipe to exchange or wish to nominate someone else, please see the contact details below.

All you need do is register your item or items and receive a ticket in their place. Once you see something you fancy you can simply exchange your ticket for the desired item. This system is easy and simple to use.

This is a great community event that can be used to draw attention to our town and improve the local community.

The entire event will be filmed and aired on S4C on the 31st of March.

For more information go to www.S4C.co.uk/cyfnewid or contact the Cyfnewid Team on 029 20590117 or anona.evans@boomerang.co.uk / heledd.angharad@boomerang.co.uk.

More details below:
Llanelli%20Cyflyer_Cymraeg.pdf
Llanelli%2520Cyflyer_Saesneg%5B1%5D.pdf

First Minister visits Carmarthenshire’s newest sporting attraction during county visit

2010-02-18T15:41:00.004Z

First pic,Ffos Las Racecourse general manager Colin Owens, First Minister Carwyn Jones, Walters Group operational director Huw Richards, and Carmarthenshire County Council Leader Cllr Meryl Gravell. Pic Jeff Connell

Second pic, Members of the Mid and West Wales Fire Brigade Search and Rescue Team, who recently returned from a rescue mission in earthquake-stricken Haiti, meet First Minister Carwyn Jones, and Carmarthenshire County Council Leader Cllr Meryl Gravell, during a reception at Ffos Las Racecourse. Pictures by Jeff Connell

First Minister Carwyn Jones has visited Carmarthenshire’s newest sporting attraction.

He was taken on a tour of Ffos Las Racecourse following a reception in its hospitality suite, where he met members of the Mid and West Wales Fire Brigade search and rescue team, who recently returned from earthquake-stricken Haiti.

Mr Jones was invited to Ffos Las as part of his visit to Carmarthenshire, hosted by Carmarthenshire County Council leader Cllr Meryl Gravell. Earlier in the day he announced a £14million theatre and entertainment development at Llanelli Town Centre.

Mr Jones said he was impressed with the facilities at Ffos Las, which has become a major part of Carmarthenshire’s tourism appeal. Launched in June last year, the racecourse hosts racing meets and provides corporate hospitality and private functions – including weddings – throughout the year.

It has acted as a major catalyst for tourism in Carmarthenshire, and joins Parc Y Scarlets and Machynys Golf Course as a key player in sporting attractions in the county. First Minister Carwyn Jones said: “The team at Ffos Las racecourse have created a first-class facility. It is attracting many visitors to the area to watch top-class horse-racing and hopefully it will encourage them to return time and again to explore the area.”

Ffos Las Ltd is part of the successful Walters Group of Companies, together with partners Persimmon Homes Ltd and Newbury Racecourse. Its development was supported from the outset by Carmarthenshire County Council.

Ffos Las, which translates as Blue Ditch, is named a after the farm that used to stand within the site before open casting began in 1983. The site commands breathtaking views down the Gwendraeth Valley and across Carmarthen Bay to Tenby and Caldey Island.

Council leader, Cllr Meryl Gravell, said: “We are immensely proud of Ffos Las, and wanted to take the opportunity of showing the First Minister around the course during his short visit to the county.

“We were also humbled to meet the search and rescue team from Carmarthenshire who have just returned from Haiti. They had some harrowing tales to tell, but we are glad to have them home, safe and well.”

The First Minister added: “I was pleased and proud to have the opportunity to meet the brave firefighters from the Mid and West Wales Fire Service in person, to thank them on behalf of the people of Wales for the important role they played in the massive humanitarian effort to help the people of Haiti, in often difficult and dangerous situations.”

Pupils win £100 prize in community safety competition

2010-02-18T15:35:00.003Z

CAPTION: Year one pupils from Ysgol Parc Y Tywyn in Burry Port receive their £100 prize as part of a Community Safety Partnership competition to grow their own flowers from council community safety officer Rhys Morris and Neighbourhood policing officer PC Vanessa Vaughan. Picture: Jeff Connell.

SCHOOLCHILDREN in Burry Port have won £100 worth of WHSmith vouchers in a community safety competition to raise awareness of shed burglaries.

A campaign was launched by Carmarthenshire’s Community Safety Partnership to encourage residents to make sure their outbuildings such as sheds and garages were secure. Seed packets with crime prevention advice were sent to primary schools across the county asking all year 1 and 2 pupils to take them home to their parents.

A competition was also held with the schools to grow the best flowers from the seeds provided. The partnership’s Burglary Action Group chose Ysgol Parc Y Tywyn in Burry Port as the winners with their blooming display.

Community Safety Inspector Tony Ward said: “Garden sheds and garages can be a treasure trove for thieves with bikes, lawnmowers, tools and garden equipment running into thousands of pounds.“But reducing the risk of becoming a victim of this kind of crime is not difficult; there are a number of simple measures that householders can take to protect their property.”

The Community Safety Partnership, which includes the county council, police, and a number of other agencies, is committed to reducing burglaries across the county.Figures show that around a quarter of all non-dwelling burglaries in Carmarthenshire involve an insecure entry.For further information or free property security advice contact your local crime prevention officer by calling 101.

Crime prevention advice for sheds:

Fit good quality lock to all doors ensuring that none of the screws or fittings are exposed;
Fit internal bolts that drop into the floor on up and over garage doors;
Fit net curtains on windows to stop prying eyes and if possible fit internal bars to all windows;
Fit an alarm – a shed or garage alarm can be fitted for under £25. There are no wires or fuss and they can be fitted in fewer than 10 minutes.
Ensure all contents are ‘property marked’ with your postcode using UV marker pens, paint, engraving or stamping;
Keep a list of all items including the make, model, and serial numbers.
If you keep power tools in your shed, store the power lead in a different location.

Safer Provisions for County Youths

2010-02-18T15:32:00.001Z

MORFA Youth Forum and Carmarthenshire Youth Service have received support from Communities First and The Prince’s Trust to set up a motor biking scrambling project.

The project will educate young people on motorcycle maintenance and encourage safe, responsible off road riding skills. Pupils form Strade and Coedcae schools are currently using the motorbike project at Pembrey Race Circuit as part of their Youth Achievement Awards and OCNs.

Young people meet with Youth Service officers at Pembrey Race Circuit to practice safe riding. Carmarthenshire Youth Service is delighted with the support given by Pembrey Race Circuit and Circuit Director, Phil Davies, hopes to create a motor cross track of international standard to meet the need for an off road facility in South Wales. Dyfed Powys Police are very supportive of the initiative too and hope young people will take advantage of the facility in Pembrey Race Circuit.

A Dyfed Powys Police spokesman said:“This initiative is a good example of the police and partners engaging with young people to keep our roads safe and to tackle antisocial behaviour.”

Senior Youth Worker for the Llanelli area added:“We have been very fortunate with the support from various organisations and we’re working hard together to help improve safer provisions for young people.“The project has already raised awareness among the young people we are currently working with and hopefully more young people across the county will benefit from the scheme.”

For further information, please contact Huw Thomas on: 01554 749782.

Llanelli Photography Workshop

2010-02-16T14:53:00.000Z

Llanelli-based celebrity photographer Terry Morris is offering students and amateur photographers a chance to learn the tricks of the trade. A one-day studio photography workshop is being held at his new Dafen studio on Saturday, March 13. It will include a personal talk through his celebrity portrait collections, set-up and lighting techniques, shoot experience, photo editing, and advice on getting work published. Limited places available. For further information call 01554 755300.

Community Group of the Month

2010-02-12T17:07:00.011Z

Glanymor And Tyisha Safer Communities Action Group – Llanellitown.com’s First Community Group Of The Month

February’s ‘Community Group of the Month’ are Glanymor and Tyisha Safer Communities Action Group (SCAG).

The Action Group comes together each month to discuss all aspects of community safety and to develop an action plan for the month ahead. Working to improve the quality of life for residents, the group proactively tackles a range of challenges in the two districts.

Last year SCAG helped keep cars of the road during the school run and promoted healthy lifestyles, when it worked with primary schools to arrange ‘walk to school events’ and was present at the Road Safety Unit's fun day last year.

Helping to stamp out crime, the Action Group also worked with the Neighbourhood Police Team, to undertake a ‘property marking’ campaign, which saw residents mark their property with ultra violet pens.

Protecting vulnerable people, the Action Group formed a partnership with Trading Standards and established a ‘no cold calling’ zone and, more recently, it worked with Communities First during their Alcohol and Substance Misuse Awareness Consultation events.

On March 17th the group invites you to join them, when they hold their Community Safety Event in the Antioch Centre, Copperworks Rd. There will be a host of information stands to see and the Glanymor and Tyisha Community Safety Awards will be held. The event will start at 4.00pm.

The team at Llanellitown.com would like to offer our congratulations to all those involved with the Action Group and we encourage all our readers to join them on 17th of March.

To learn more about Glanymor and Tyisha Safer Communities Action Group, please visit their blog via the address below.

http://www.safercommunitiesactiongroup.blogspot.com/

This is new fetaure for Llanellitown.com, which is aimed at providing much needed exposure for the area's community/voluntary groups. If you would like your group to be featured and raise its profile, then please let us know.

Reporter: Christopher Roberts

Libraries give away free gifts

2010-02-12T09:40:00.002Z

FREE offers are available to people who join Carmarthenshire libraries in March, April and May.

They include ski sessions at Pembrey Ski Slope, either taster lessons for beginners or a free session for those who already ski; a free induction at Carmarthenshire Leisure Centre gyms for those who join and pay direct debit membership and free DVD hire.

Free theatre vouchers of £25, £15, and £10 will be available in a monthly draw, all new members for the month will be entered into it and three lucky winners will receive the vouchers to be used at Carmarthenshire theatres. A free private ski lesson at Pembrey for a family of up to five people will also be offered in a monthly draw.

The offers are part of a county council libraries campaign to encourage more people to sign up. Some 60,000 people are on the membership database already, and almost a million visits are made each year.

Education executive board member Cllr Gwynne Wooldridge said: “These free offers will be available for three months to all new library members.

“There are lots of benefits to becoming a member, and we hope many people take advantage of the opportunity to sign up and qualify for the free gifts.”

Carmarthenshire has libraries at venues across the county, and five mobile libraries which also visit primary schools, residential homes and housebound readers. Libraries are welcoming and accessible to people of all ages including children. Babies are now signed up from birth through the Bookstart scheme, Rhymetime sessions are popular with pre-school children, summer reading challenges and other events are enjoyed by primary schoolchildren and Teen Zones encourage secondary school pupils to join.

All libraries offer free access to over half a million books (best sellers, fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, large print titles, Welsh and English), as well as talking books on CDs and cassettes, audio CDs, and DVDs.

Free Internet access is also provided, plus advice and guidance on on-line courses.Extensive reference collections include business directories, dictionaries, yearbooks, specialist publications, careers information and much more – including a wealth of local community information and local history publications – microfilm and microfiche- based information, and local newspaper archives.

For more information visit your local library or www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk

Llanelli festival will be a cultural melting pot

2010-02-12T09:30:00.002Z

FROM samba dancers to the Salvation Army and flying machines to photography - a kaleidoscope of more than 60 organisations are planning to come together for the first Llanelli Festival in August.

Llanelli historians Benita and William Rees have been overwhelmed at the response and support for their idea to promote the positive aspects of their town in celebrating Llanelli Historical Society’s 10th anniversary. They have won the support of local authorities to help promote Llanelli Festival involving all the diverse organisations and cultures that make up the town at the Selwyn Samuel Bowls Centre on Saturday, August 21st. (2010). Also supporting them are LlanelliTown.com as their Media Sponsors!

Llanelli’s relatively new and growing diverse ethnic culture alongside the long tradition of a civic society will be cheek by jowl. Religion, cooking, activities, skills, pastimes, recreation and play and just about everything is going into the festival pot.

Mrs Rees said: “We want this to be a colourful and fun family day bringing together all the many and varied talented people that give our town such vibrancy. It will be a chance to show that under the skin this town is bubbling with activities and things to do.

“All the groups and organisations go about doing their own thing very successfully but few of us realise how many diversified units of activity there are all with their own faithful and dedicated followers.

“This will be an opportunity for each of them to show off to others what they do and provide for the community in a camaraderie fun setting to be enjoyed by all the family. We hope to create a carnival atmosphere with attractions and outdoor rides for youngsters making this a day to remember and hopefully one that is be repeated on an annual basis.”

Mrs Rees has been stunned that her original mail shot and calls to more than 100 organisations resulted 52 replying wanting to be involved.

The County, Llanelli Town and Rural Councils are all playing their part, providing the venue, support and entertainment. Each organisation will have floor space allocated in the bowls centre and admission to the public will be free.

Anyone wanting to be involved can contact Mrs Rees on 01554-775320 or email benetaafan@aol.com.

“It would be wonderful to recapture the spirit of the Llanelli Flower Festival that became such a massive attraction in the 1980’s,” said Mrs Rees.

Please download the posters:
PosterLlanellitown.pdf
WelshPosterLlanellitown.pdf

Curtain rises on £14m theatre for Llanelli

2010-02-12T09:24:00.003Z

Work is set to start before the end of the year on a £14.6m cultural centre that will include a 500-seat theatre.

Funding has been secured for the project on derelict land next to Zion Chapel in Llanelli, Carmarthenshire.

It is called The Works, it is estimated it will create 35 jobs, and the Grade II listed chapel and neighbouring Old School will also be renovated.
It will occupy a site near a new cinema and retail development planned for the eastern gateway to the town.

It will be funded by the EU's European Regional Development Fund, Welsh Assembly Government, Carmarthenshire Council and other partners.
They say The Works will provide entertainment, arts, culture, employment and skills opportunities for people across the region.

The new complex will replace the existing Entertainment Centre on the other side of town. That building dates back to 1938 and would need between £3m and £4m to refurbish it.

First Minister Carwyn Jones, who has toured the site with his deputy Ieuan Wyn Jones, said it was anticipated that when complete, The Works would attract more than 50,000 visitors and play a major role in community life.

"The Works will play a major role in the regeneration of Llanelli and the wider south west region, bringing new employment and training opportunities," he added.
As part of the scheme a multi-purpose 500-seat main auditorium, with a stage, orchestra pit and a flexible seating system will be constructed.

Trinity University College will occupy offices on the first floor for a project which will focus on creating opportunities for students.

It will also have wheelchair access in the tall fly-tower to allow disabled people the opportunity to be trained and gain employment as lighting and backstage technicians.
Carmarthenshire council leader Meryl Gravell said: "This development will hopefully be the catalyst for further investment that will provide much needed support for local businesses and local people.

"Further plans are in the pipeline and if these are also successful, we will see a major transformation of the town centre."

The partners said the aim was to be on site in October with a target to open in July 2012.

2010-02-05T15:58:00.001Z

Scarlets Name Team To Face The Blues

Scarlets Head Coach Nigel Davies says Saturday's fixture against the Cardiff Blues at Parc y Scarlets will have the feeling of a cup quarter-final for both teams, as they lead their pools and are focused on an LV=Cup semi-final place.

Scrum half Martin Roberts who joined Wales this week is released back to his region by Warren Gatland to join-up with a largely unchanged Scarlets side that won away against a strong London Wasps line-up last weekend.

Nigel Davies brings back David Lyons (captain) and Ken Owens after resting them last week. Morgan Stoddart has a groin injury and will be out for four weeks. Other Scarlets on the long-term injury list include senior internationals Simon Easterby, Dafydd Jones and captain Mark Jones.

Saturday's derby match sees the long-awaited return of Scarlets star centre Regan King who makes his first start on Saturday after nearly a year out from injury - a welcome boost to the rugby region and its supporters.

The Scarlets are unbeaten in the LV=Cup having beaten Worcester, Wasps and drawn against Harlequins. The Scarlets go into the game having won their last four games back-to-back and lead their LV= Cup pool with eleven points.

And reigning Anglo-Welsh champions Cardiff Blues travel to Parc y Scarlets on the back of a decisive 45 v 24 win over Newcastle Falcons last weekend with only one narrow loss against London Irish in their last nine fixtures.

With the Blues and Scarlets both top of their respective pools, a hotly contested match is guaranteed as the Welsh rivals look to seal semi-final qualification and a home draw in the knock out stages.

Nigel Davies said: "The way we are approaching this is very much like a quarter-final, if we can win this game, it puts us in a strong position for a home semi-final.

"It is win at all costs - going into the Wasps game we said we still needed two wins in the last two games - this game is no different, the focus is on getting a result.

"The Blues have everything to play for too, we all want to win this competition particularly with both of us not having great Magners League form. The rivalry between these two regions will mean it will be a great game.

"The LV=Cup competition has been good for us because the quality of our group has risen this season because of the exposure that a lot of our younger players have had over the past 18 months.

"They are performing very well as we saw in first stage and last week in the and this adds competition and depth to the squad. The gap is much closer between those deemed as our first team players and the rest of the squad, which adds competition and a spark in training."

Davies added recent form had been a boost to the Scarlets squad: "It is great, it has been a long time coming putting four wins in a row together and also the fact that three of them have been away from home is a huge achievement by this group of players.

"As I've said before, the investment we've made in these players is starting to come through and as they have shown in the last four games, they are a capable bunch. We still have a long way to go but in general terms we are moving forward well.

"I know our Scarlets supporters appreciate what these guys are doing and it would be really nice to see a crowd come here and show their appreciation of these boys - it would be massive for them to get that support."

15 Daniel Evans, 14 Lee Williams, 13 Gareth Maule, 12 Regan King 11 Andy Fenby, 10 Rhys Priestland, 9 Tavis Knoyle, 1 Phil John, 2 Ken Owens, 3 Deacon Manu, 4 Lou Reed, 5 Damian Welch, 6 Rob McCusker, 7 Josh Turnbull, 8 David Lyons (capt).

Replacements: 16 Iestyn Thomas, 17 Emyr Phillips, 18 Rhys Thomas, 19 Vernon Cooper, 20 Johnathan Edwards, 21 Martin Roberts, 22 Daniel Newton 23 Joe Ajuwa.

2010-02-05T12:07:00.004Z

Llanellitown.com More Popular Than Ever

Llanellitown.com received 77331 hits in November, equivalent to around 2500 hits per day. This means that, 500 more people visited this site everyday compared to previous months!

Jonathan Williams our Services Director said “This is a fantastic achievement, we are making great progress and we are very thankful for the support the people of Llanelli have given us.”

With a makeover of the website expected in the near future, visitors can expect to see a ‘new look’ site, with even more content. The team at Llanellitown.com believe that with your support, the site will be even better and more popular.

So whether you want us promote your business, raise awareness of a charity or publicise events, Llanellitown.com is the place to do it. Please get in touch via the email addresses below.

jonathan@llanellitown.com

christopher@llanellitown.com

Oscar's Night in Llwynhendy

2010-02-03T15:48:00.002Z

It was Oscar night last Friday in Llwynhendy (Fri 29th January) as volunteers and invited guests adorned Black Ties and Evening Gowns to witness their own awards ceremony.

The “ Llwynhendy Oscars” which was organised by Llwynhendy Events Committee and sponsored by Communities First Llwynhendy saw many people in attendance including Gareth Jenkins (pictured with a recipient of an award), Meryl Gravelle, Helen Mary Jones, Councillors Carol Rees, Jim Jones, Sharon Davies, Mike Theodoulou (Mid and West Wales Chamber) and representatives of the Big Lottery and Police Service were in attendance and much more.

This event was an opportunity for the volunteers of Llwynhendy to be shown appreciation for all their hard work through the year. There were 17 awards in total, and over 50 certificates were awarded during the ceremony. The winners were:

Back To Basics
Events Committee
Dads Group
Youth Group
Ty Enfys Family Centre
Trallwm Forum
Neighbourhood Police Team
Volunteer of the Year was Jason Skivington.

Llanellitown.com’s own Services Director, Jonathan Williams attended the event and said: ”I’m really grateful to have been invited tonight and to witness the achievements of the community over the past year. People tend to highlight the negative aspects of an area but tonight showed first hand what excellent work is being done by the people and community of Llwynhendy and what Communities First can achieve”

Gillian Handscomb of Communities First Llwynhendy said: “We’d like to say a big thank you to all those who attended the evening and those who helped organise the event. It’s just a way for everyone to say thanks for all the hard work.”

If you require any more information on Communities First Llwynhendy please contact Gillian on 01554 780288 or visit http://www.communitiesfirstllwynhendy.org.uk/.

Penymorfa Spick and Span Project

2010-01-30T17:19:00.001Z

A Llanelli community has come together to regenerate an area blighted by vandalism and flytipping.

Working with Communities First Glanymor and Tyisha, residents of Penymorfa are creating a community garden, play and events area suitable for people of all ages.

To make their vision a reality, Communities First officers secured £50,000 of funding from the Welsh Assembly Government’s Local Environmental Quality Fund, and a further £8,110 from its Tidy Towns initiative.

Work is now well underway, and locals have been keen to get their hands dirty to help out.
Faye Davies, Communities First development officer, said: “Work is now underway on-site with Sylvan Landscapes, the New Deal Environmental Task Force and local young people all involved.
“Children from the nearby Jelli Totz Nursery are also involved by growing flowers from seeds to plant in the community garden.

“Foothold Green Network has been appointed to project manage the planning and landscape elements, and we hope to be ready by the summer following further planting and turfing in the spring.”

When complete, the area will include a community garden, outdoor community events area with seating, a youth shelter, an informal ball game area, a children’s picnic table and play panel.
It will also include a recycling area, and will be monitored by CCTV.

Communities First is a Welsh Assembly funded initiative, led locally by Carmarthenshire County Council. It aims to regenerate deprived areas through improving living conditions and prospects for local people.

Cllr Clive Scourfield, executive board member for regeneration, said: “Local people of all ages have shown huge commitment to this project and have led from the beginning by undertaking scoping exercises and drawing up plans.

“By involving everyone in this way, they will be encouraged to value and look after this community facility for years to come.”

As part of the project, local young people are being encouraged to contribute to some street art and tree planting on Friday February 19, from 10.30am-3.30pm. Organised by the Glanymor and Tyisha Youth Action Group, the event is open for those aged 10 and over who live in the area. Spaces are limited and need to be booked in advance. Contact Faye Davies on 01554 777850.

2010-01-25T17:53:00.000Z

Llanelli Moving Forward

As part of a series of articles Llanellitown.com invited local people to share their thoughts on Llanelli and its regeneration. This week Plaid Cymru’s parliamentary candidate, Myfanwy Davies, offered us her views.

Myfanwy pointed to the range of shops that can be found in the town and emphasised the quality of local produce available.

“This year, I purchased all my Christmas presents in the town centre. I bought books, soaps, beautiful handmade jewellery, scarves and bags. Everyone is delighted with their presents and no-one appears to have stopped talking to me!”

“What’s more, the quality of local produce for sale in the market, butchers’ shops and delicatessens, is as good as anything sold at much grander farmers’ markets. When I speak to visitors to the town centre, they are often envious of the variety and the exceptionally good value of food, often produced within a few miles of where it is sold.”

Whilst celebrating the quality of goods and services available in Llanelli, Myfanwy also emphasised the importance of marketing small businesses more effectively.

“The future of Llanelli, like that of Kidwelly and Burry Port, lies in keeping and developing our smaller businesses. But to do this people need to know about the products on offer.”

“ It’s is great for us Llanelli people to be in on the secret, but traders and shopkeepers also need more help to advertise and market the goods and services they sell.”

Successfully promoting local businesses is vital to attract more visitors to the town. However, Myfanwy also suggested that people should be encouraged to take up residence in the town centre. This would allow local businesses to benefit from a sustained increase in shoppers, whilst encouraging a ‘cafe culture’.

“Perhaps the most powerful way of reviving the town centre is the most obvious one. We need to bring people into the town centre, so why not develop more places for them to live? My flat is in a converted building in the town centre. It is close to everything, well-designed and managed by a local family. Just think what a difference thirty or so good-quality converted flats would make to our shops and cafes.”

Stressing the importance of bringing significant investment into Llanelli, Myfanwy welcomed the planned Eastern Gateway regeneration scheme, whilst emphasising the need for wider consultation.

“We need the Eastern Gateway development that is planned for Upper Park Street to attract more people to the town. For this reason, it’s fantastic that the redevelopment will include not only shops, but also entertainment facilities and a hotel.”

“This redevelopment is a vital opportunity for the town and to make it a great success it’s important that local people are properly consulted by the Council. Let’s bring people together to support the scheme and perhaps even improve it.”

Llanelli is a town that we should be proud of. This was a message Myfanwy was keen to put across as she encouraged the people of Llanelli to take an active role in supporting their town.

“Our town centre belongs to all of us and, like most people in Llanelli, I am very proud of it. Social enterprises like Llanellitown.com help to showcase the talent found here and illustrate the commitment of the local community to reviving the town’s fortunes.”

Reporter: Christopher Roberts

2010-01-19T18:46:00.002Z

Reds Under 19's Win Group

Carmarthen Town U19’s 1 - Llanelli U19’s 2

The Reds Under 19’s restarted their season after the enforced break due to bad weather with a 2 1 win at Carmarthen Town on Monday night.

This was their penultimate game in Group D of the Macwhirter League Youth Cup, with a visit to Pontardawe remaining on Sunday 7^th February.

The Reds started brightly on a crisp night that was perfect for football. They failed to take numerous chances until Craig Frater put them ahead after 36 minutes when he slotted the ball past the keeper after being put through by Declan John.

The Reds lost Nathan Logan and Joe Clarke to injuries and they were replaced by James Secker and Gethin Davies. Secker was instrumental in setting up the Reds second goal when he put in a pin point cross for Craig Frater to head home his second goal of the game.

After that the Reds failed to take more good chances and 10 minutes from the end the home side reduced the arrears when they scored from the penalty mark.

This didn’t deter the young Reds and they proceeded to create more chances. The best of these chances fell to Frater, who nearly scored his hat trick when he got onto the end of another fine cross from James Secker.

The Under 19’s next home game is against Haverfordwest County on Tuesday 26^th January with the kick off at Stebonheath Park at 7.30pm.

2010-01-19T18:25:00.001Z

Llanelli AFC’s Forthcoming Home Matches

TUESDAY 19^TH January

· SWANSEA CITY Kick Off 19.30

Admission: £4 ( U14s Free WITH A PAYING ADULT)

SATURDAY 23^RD JANUARY

· BANGOR CITY Kick Off 14.00

Admission: Adults £6, OAP & U16 £4

SATURDAY 30^TH JANUARY

· HOLYHEAD HOTSPURS Kick Off 14.00 (Welsh Cup 4^TH Round)

Admission: Adults £6, OAP & U16 £4

2010-01-18T19:23:00.001Z

Scarlets Triumph Over London Irish In Exciting Heineken Clash

It wasn’t only the weather that was hot at Parc Y Scarlets, the home team were positively sizzling. Producing some of their best rugby this season and surprising many, including the London Irish supporters, the Scarlets went into overdrive for the final twenty minutes of this match.

Both sides play an exciting game and no one could fault the effort made to entertain the crowd. In a throwback to the past, there was little evidence of the purposeless (and boring) kicking duels that we often witness today.

True to their style of play, London Irish attacked from the outset and found themselves up 22 points to 10, at one stage. The outlook for the Scarlets looked bleak and the crowd must have wondered how the rest of the season was likely to fare. Could the Scarlets dig deep and demonstrate the same resolve they had shown whilst facing the Dragons?

Yes was the answer, and what a performance it proved to be. With 17 minutes remaining, blind-side flanker Rob McCusker must have run 40 meters as he scored a spectacular individual try, leaving desperate tacklers in his wake. With the Scarlets building momentum McCusker was at it again, touching down despite the brave Irish defence.

In the closing moments of the match Jonathan Davies was able to show once again, why he is such a promising centre for both the Scarlets and Wales, as he weaved his way through, touching down near the posts.

This was a team effort, led superbly by David Lyons who worked tirelessly to gain the hard yards that matter so much to the end result. Young Ken Owens showed promise throughout, with Fenby producing deft touches on the wing, allowing Jonathan Davies to score early on. At full back, Dan Evans looked secure, rifling his kicks into the corners, destroying the confidence of the Irish.

Looking to the future, Rhys Priestland is developing his overall play and was very unlucky not to score, following a clever chip ahead. If he works hard on his goal kicking he could become a considerable asset to the team.

The Scarlets must now to go Brive with their tails up, concentrate on winning and secure a bonus-point if possible.

Reporter: Christopher Roberts

2010-01-16T10:44:00.001Z

Scarlets Name Team To Face London Irish

The Scarlets have named a 23-man squad to face the London Irish on Sunday at Parc y Scarlets, kick off 1245pm, in the fifth round of the Heineken Cup.

The Scarlets have beaten London Irish in their previous three Heineken Cup clashes including their last encounter - the memorable 27 - 25 win at Madejski stadium in October in Round 2 of this season's competition.

With London Irish out to revenge their defeat at home in Reading against the Scarlets, both teams have admitted it is a 'massive match' - knowing that a result keeps their hopes in the Europe alive.

Scarlets Head Coach Nigel Davies said the Parc y Scarlets home crowd will have plenty to look forward in Sunday's game.

"It should be a good game, both sides traditionally look to play an expansive brand of rugby. I've got a lot of admiration for what they are doing at London Irish, they are a quality outfit and with both sides knowing it is a must win match - it should make for a great game of rugby, just like the first game was."

Back into the Scarlets starting line-up comes Morgan Stoddart on the wing with talented young flanker Josh Turnbull back after suspension.

Fly-half Stephen Jones does not quite make the race for fitness for this game, after picking up a slight shoulder injury against the Dragons on New Years Eve, so Rhys Priestland takes up the key no10 slot for the Scarlets. Daniel Evans, Man of the Match against London Irish last time out takes position at full-back.

The Scarlets welcome back experienced prop Iestyn Thomas who returns from injury to start. The squad is still without a number of its internationals including Mark Jones, Matthew Rees (expected back next week), Dafydd Jones, Rhys Thomas and Regan King.
The Scarlets are determined to put their back-to-back form against Leinster right, with Davies saying it is now the 'key game' in the European Cup with "a lot to play for and a lot to prove".

He said: "This is a key game in our group now. It's very important to both teams and realistically we are still in there with a shout of finishing in second spot in this particular group if we win on Sunday.

"If we can do that in this group, that will be a big achievement for us, particularly where we've come from over this past two or three years."

And Davies backed his young Scarlets fly-half, Rhys Priestland, saying he has developed well this season: "I am really pleased with Rhys, I think his overall game is very good, and he has developed really well this year. He has a bit more of a mental hardness to his game now and affects games very positively. I felt that in our win against the Dragons on New Years Eve, he had a significant impact on the game."

Asked about the last London Irish encounter, Nigel Davies said: "We were able to get pretty much our strongest team on the field for that game - with most of our internationals available. Our pack went well and our set piece gave us a great platform, which was no mean achievement against a formidable team like London Irish.

"We established a platform to play off and we were able to react to the game as it unfolded, and in the second half we dominated the game. We stuck in there and showed resilience and belief when they got a break away try and that's the type of commitment and character that we are going have to show again on Sunday."

Meanwhile, London Irish second row Bob Casey who will lead the Exiles out on Sunday after back to back wins of 34-13 and 36-3 winners against Brive has said the team were aware of the challenge the Scarlets present: "We slipped up badly at home when the Scarlets punished us but we will be doing our homework on them next week and make sure we are 100 per cent prepared for what we know will be a huge challenge in West Wales," said Casey.

"The Scarlets have a decent scrum, their line-out is going well and they have gain breakers behind the scrum and guys who can run in tries from all over the pitch.

"Any team that can do that is a threat and in David Lyons they have one of the best No 8s in the competition, an extremely powerful player with a great rugby brain."

Scarlets selection v London Irish Sunday 17th January 2010 (KO 1245) at Parc y Scarlets

15 Daniel Evans, 14 Morgan Stoddart, 13 Sean Lamont, 12 Jonathan Davies, 11 Andy Fenby, 10 Rhys Priestland, 9 Martin Roberts, 1 Iestyn Thomas, 2 Ken Owens, 3 Deacon Manu, 4 Lou Reed, 5 Dominic Day, 6 Rob McCusker, 7 Josh Turnbull, 8 David Lyons (captain).

Replacements: 16 Emyr Phillips, 17 Phil John, 18 Jamie Corsi, 19 Damian Welch, 20 Johnathan Edwards, 21 Lee Williams, 22 Dan Newton 23 Gareth Maule.