Penygroes Community News

Present


Apologies

Kevin Kelly, Alun Lewis, Lynette Reynolds

Minutes of last meeting

•    The statement about the Gardening Club creating an allotment on the Apostolic land was incorrect.
•    Minutes approved, proposed by Yvonne Kelly, seconded by John Davies.

Matters Arising From Minutes

•    Mark Waygood to speak to Alun lewis regarding the ‘Mothers & Toddlers’ group, as it is not believed that Alun has spoke to any group.
•    A volunteer for the Vice Secretary’s position was again requested but no offers were forthcoming.

Emlyn Update

•    Residents of Nos 42-62 & 84-100 received letter from Protex regarding a proposed rear access road to services these houses with the maintenance being the responsibility of those residents.
•    Mark Durdin has replied to the letter saying that he was interested in principle but wanted certain matters clarified and that there be a meeting with all the residents affected by this proposed plan because they have always enjoyed access to the rear of their properties.
•    Cllr. Siân Thomas had a two hour meeting with John Taylor who said that he owned the land behind these properties. He also tried to explain away some of the problems and that the drainage system was working properly.
•    A meeting is to be requested by the sub-committee to clarify this situation.
•    Gully clearing was in operation in Gors Ddu Road today all day.
•    The concrete works in Norton Road have had Dyno Rod checking their drainage, although they were not requested by the works.  No complaints have ever been made about the concrete works.
•    The environment Agency has been out inspecting the drains.
•    The highways dept have already been out to clear the drains.
•    There has been water ingress into No. 85, soaking the carpets.

Garden Club

•    Community Garden - hopefully, all details will be complete by the next meeting.

One Fund

•    The one fund changed as of 1st November.
•    Since October 2004 the ‘One Fund’ has supported over 260 projects with 3.1 million pounds.
•    The Penygroes Officer looks good and the application is ready to be signed and only 6 letters of support are needed.
•    Match funding must be 5% of the overall project value.
•    100% is available for the Community Garden project as it is under £5,000  – a signed application, annual accounts and proof of land ownership are all that is required.
•    Cllr. Siân Thomas informed the forum that Mr Sutton and his group (The Penygroes Youth & Community Group) have applied for a garden in the park in Penygroes and are being assisted by the parks department with this application.  
•    Application for the community garden must be submitted quickly as the two projects are very similar.
•    There are still questions regarding the official status of this group which does not appear to have a constitution.
•    We need a development (feasibility) study carried out to ascertain if there are areas in our village that can be developed because there are grants available.
•    We need to find pieces of land that are not suitable for building on that we can use for the benefit of local residents.
•    Perhaps we could extend part of the coastal cycle path which goes up to Cefneithin, continues into the Beacons and then North Wales.  Large grants are available for this.
•    We may be able to do this through Llandybie community council as they are interested in having this type of project for the whole community.
•    Cross Hands, Gorslas and Drefach have all had studies on how they can improve their parks.  Trimsaran are having a feasibility study carried out now.

Forthcoming Events

Pavilion Opening Day.

•   This has been postponed in view of the need for the youth to actually set up the club and have something to show on the open day. This will probably now be held early in the New Year.
•    A report was read out to the forum on the youth project facilities, compiled by the forum Secretary.  Essentially, the pavilion is still first and foremost, a changing facility despite all the money spent on its refurbishment.  It is believed that certain adjustments will be required before it can be used for the Youth and will probably be a short term project until larger facilities can be found or constructed in the future.  
•    A full copy of the report is available for viewing.  Its contents are the views of the Secretary and do not necessarily represent the views of any other person.
•    An invitation to view the pavilion was then given to any interested parties.
•    A local developer that Cllr. Thomas is in discussion with intends to provide premises to house a youth club as part of his plans for a housing development locally.
•    The pavilion at the bottom of the field which the players sometimes use is owned by the Cricket Club.
•    Equipment in the pavilion needs to be secure, and someone needs to be responsible for the cleaning as it isn’t the responsibility of the Youth project to clean up after the players.
•    A community development officer would have this as part of their responsibility.
•    Eleri Beckett carried out a great deal of work in getting Caerbryn Hall for the community.
•    The grant we received was on the understanding that the pavilion would be for the benefit and use of the whole community.  That is why the amount for renovation increased from over £8,000 to over £80,000.
•    Alana did discuss requirements Gerwyn Thomas (parks dept.) who was also talking to the Rugby Club.
•    We need to have a meeting between the Youth Project, Rugby Club, Gerwyn Thomas, The Forum and Siân Thomas.  Mark Waygood to arrange.

Boxing Day Walk

•    Starting at 2pm in the car park in Llyn Llech Owain.  Adults and Childrens walks plus a prize

Christmas Fayre

•     Friday 15th December.  Help would be appreciated for stalls etc.  It is a 6.30pm start and a small charge to enter.

Craft Fayre

•     Took place last week.  Over £200 raised

Games Afternoon

•      Planned for 2nd December 2pm-5pm
•      Need volunteers, Yvonne is happy to help train people.  Volunteers will need to man the games table for the duration.
•      Some games from Menter would be helpful.

Volunteers

•    Volunteers are needed if we are going to hold a large local festival.   An event of this size will require more than just a few helpers and if volunteers are not forthcoming then it will not be possible to host such an event.

A.O.B.

•    Apostolic Church Update – They have not spoken to other local developers which could benefit them.
•    They have re-submitted their planning application which has now been approved.  The ownership of the site is in dispute as the Apostolic Church say they are in possession of the deeds.
•    The park was given to the council by the Welfare Hall Trustees to maintain for the benefit of the people of Penygroes.
•    The Assets department are duty bound to contact the people of the village if the legal department agree it is ok to sell the land.
•    It may be necessary to arrange local meetings if it goes this route and the Forum will need to be actively involved.
•    There is 999 year lease which stipulates the land is only to be used for recreational purposes.   The legal department are studying the lease at the moment.
•    There were 26 houses consulted initially to this development with 15 objections and only 5 objections the second time.  Although it appears not everyone received the letter on the second occasion.
•    The planning officer is a Deacon of the Apostolic Church although he handed the application over to his colleague.
•    The planning department are not taking the first letters from concerned residents into account but are allowing initial reports from council officers to be considered.
•    Highways are happy to run a road adjacent to the park and there is reasonable safety there although it is only there duty to maintain the flow of traffic.
•    Consultation period is 2 weeks but this could take place over the Christmas period (possibly from 11th December).
•    There are plans for 680 homes in Penygroes but the facilities are not being put in place.  Promises from developers are not written in stone.  All local schools etc. are currently at full capacity.
•    The Guardian and the Journal should be publishing stories this week.
•    As soon as we know what is happening then a leaflet drop will be arranged for the village.  Contact Paddy French (who is researching the planning department of Carmarthenshire County Council) and the Executive members of the council at the same time.
•    All objections to the development should be available on the council website.  Siân has access to information and will provide if required.
•    Dog Fouling – Penygroes Rugby Club recently had to abandon a game because of dig fouling on the pitch.
•    They have requested signs which are being delivered and will let the forum know when he has them.
•    Complaints have been sent in, one from the square and two from the Rugby pitch.  The council have said they have cleaned the area, can we have confirmation of this.
•    The council do not provide bins for dog waste because they doe not have the facilities to dispose of it.
•    There may be a scheme for local communities to apply for a grant to police their own area and fine anyone they catch whose dog is fouling the area.

Meeting Closed

Date of next meeting;  7pm 12th December 2006 at Calfaria Chapel

Present

Apologies

Llinos Hindley, Mark Durdin


Minutes of last meeting

•    Correction to last month’s minutes – Councillor Sian Thomas was not billed for the Christmas Tree etc. outside the library only sent a query regarding the matter.
•    A Letter from The Penygroes Children & Youth Community Group was read to all.
•    Comments were raised after letter was read.  

1.    Does this group have a constitution; it will be difficult getting funding, grants and public money without it?  
2.    Many local parents do not seem to have heard of them.  
3.    They haven’t contacted Menter Cwm Gwendraeth (MCG)
4.    They must have an AGM open to the public.
5.    As far as the pavilion is concerned, they haven’t been part of the process from the start.
6.    This group have been invited to join in with local events and attend meetings, but have so far refused to attend.
7.    Mr Sutton is trying to arrange events at the same time as the forum.
8.    We have thanked the group for the Christmas Tree.

Pavillion Update

•    Only the changing rooms have been completed to date.
•    Councillor Sian Thomas read a letter from Mark James (CCC) regarding the upgrade to the park.  
•    The Rugby club are claiming ownership of the Pavilion although it should be for community use. Although the above letter refuted this.
•    Suggest that it used as often as possible for sports activities when it is completed.
•    The Head of Parks has confirmed that the pavilion is a public building, but must be booked.
•    Lights are planned so the multi-ball park can be used at night.
•    Funding is required for skateboard facilities, so that children have a place where they can play and be safe.  For summer play schemes, the park is ideal.
•    There are 40 youngsters who attend Sunday school.  It’s important to work with the children, but parents must take some responsibility (for their behaviour) and interest in what they are doing.  We must work together on this.
•    We need to call a meeting regarding this and the Memorial hall is free till 7pm every night.  Meeting to be arranged by the Youth Officers of MCG.
•    Is the work being done with the youngsters as they need to feel a part and have a sense of ownership?
•    Rubbish has been dumped on some wasteland between the pavilion and the Apostolic Temple.
•    There is the opportunity for us to something relevant that will benefit everyone.  The Forum will pay for CRB checks as has been mentioned in previous minutes.  Other meetings need to be arranged to work out what equipment needs to be bought and to look into what funds are available.
•    Can the Youth Officers of MCG get in touch with PC Higgins at Cross Hands and let the Chair know when they would require the hall and they can run the meeting with the support of the Forum.

Games Night

•    Choice of dates, need to speak to Rhys Jones to confirm.
•    No date yet – liaise with Alun beginning of May (7-11)
•    Very good night last time, bowls for the youngsters and paint ball at the back.
•    Old mixing with the young needs to be encouraged.

Emlyn and Apostolic Church brief update

Roger Evans was invited along to speak about what was happening at the Emlyn site

•    John Davies gave a brief update from the sub committee meeting.
•    Phil Owen contacted the Environmental Agency and CCC to check if the site was clear, both bodies are happy that it is.
•    All the waste has been removed and taken to a landfill site.
•    Earth moving equipment will be landscaping last week in May.
•    Excess water will be collected in holding tanks and drained off into a new pipe, which will take 10-12 weeks to complete.
•    Gorsddu Road – test grouting.
•    Scrap metal at the top of Norton Road still hasn’t been removed yet, Roger Evans assured the forum that this would be addressed.
•    Complaints about a howling dog and spoil dumped behind John Davies house.
•    Lorries and heavy equipment parked in Rugby club/Memorial hall car park may damage the tarmac surface which isn’t constructed to take this type of wear.  Also excess mud is being left and washed up in the road.
•    Road to be replaced in time.
•    Western Mail featured details of the re-structure of the companies.
•    Eastern Management -> John Taylor <- Protex
•    £8.5 Million lent for infrastructure only.
•    A Sports facility on the site has been proposed.
•    Could MCG talk to John Taylor or Roger Rees about grants for match funding.

Apostolic Church

•    Public consultation in May – decision will be with lawyers.
•    Need as many people as possible to attend the meeting in Llandeilo.  If they win it could mean any developer could build anywhere.

Community Development Worker

•    A full time development worker based in Penygroes is hoped to be appointed for one year to try and source funds and grants for local issues.  We currently have a 20% shortfall for this project but hope to be able to raise the funds.
•    It is proposed that the computer room at the Memorial Hall can be used as an office.
•    We need someone else to carry out this important work as we are all busy working and have other committee obligations.  The person appointed would have specific experience in sourcing grants etc.
•    This person would work with all the local groups with the sole intention of obtaining any money that’s available from the community council.


Gardening Club

•    1st meeting to be held immediately after this meeting has ended.

The Easter Walk

Marie Hughes-Jones read information supplied by Mark Durdin as he could not attend.
•    Volunteer Walk Leader courses are being arranged and funded by the council.
•    Insurance will be provided if the VWL organises a walk that the council are aware of.
•    Marie-Ann is looking for weekly short duration walks (c. 30mins) for people who have health issues or are recovering from illness etc.  She is also trying to get rights of way information so that local routes can be developed.
•    Guided walks around Llyn Llech Owain every Wednesday will commence at Easter.  Details to follow.  Marie-Ann wants to know what we are looking for e.g. weekly local walks, monthly walks, walks further from home etc.
•    Mark to arrange something for Easter and put it in the newsletter.
•    Dai Thomas will have a certificate for walking, wait till next meeting.

Fund-raising Events

•    Work on the Village Of The Year award.  We need someone to work on this.
•    Information on Penygroes and what’s going on there is required, events, groups etc. Villages are judged on this.
•    £3,500 has been raised for the Eisteddford already, Llandybie has raised just over £1,000.  Lots of projects, Forum part of process to raise £6,000 but not lose all of it.
•    Adventure Flower show.
•    Committee meet in the Farmers Arms – Support from the forum.

A.O.B.

1/ Volunteer of the Year award
•    Need proposals by 25th May for week 1st – 7th June.
•    This is an opportunity to thank someone for work they have done in the community, schools, chapels etc.
•    Elected and/or paid officials i.e. councillors or committee members cannot be proposed.
•    Information needs to go to every house, ballot boxes placed in the Post Office/Surgery and Club.
•    If voting isn’t effective then a panel can choose.  Nomination either one per person or one per house (to be decided) and only local population eligible.
•    Perhaps Protex could contribute either a plaque or plate.

2/ Newsletter

•    Editorial team to speak to local businesses to help fund for the long term.

3/ Courses

•    MCG are arranging courses, 2 sessions each. The first is chairing a committee for prospective Chairman training.  
•    Courses for committee secretaries, minute writing etc.

4/ Dog Fouling

•    People are walking their dogs and letting them foul on the soccer fields.

5/ Bus Shelter in Caerbryn

•    An extra bus shelter has been requested in Caebryn towards Penygroes (only one going to Llandybie).
•    Current funds used up, new financial year coming.  Alun to confirm.

6/ Insurance

•    3rd party liability Insurance – Huw to look into further.

Meeting Closed

Next Meeting 11th April 2006 in Penygroes

Present

Phil Owen, Julie Owen, Cyng. Siân Thomas, Yvonne Watkins, Eleri Davies, John Davies, Stephen Lewis, Llinos Hindley, Nicola Davies, Mair Griffiths, Vicky Thomas, Julian Tandy, Marie Seymour, Peter Roberts, Yvonne Kelly (Treasurer), Mark Waygood (Secretary), Marie Hughes-Jones (Secretary), Alun Lewis (Chair), Huw Evans, Menter Cwm Gwendraeth


Apologies

•    None submitted

Volunteer of the Year Award - WINNER

•    Competition held for residents of Blaenau, Caerbryn & Penygroes.
•    The Chairman and Mrs Linda Roberts (paper shop) have counted the votes, and there is a winner.  Although many people were nominated, one name was ahead of the rest.  The names of candidates and numbers of votes won’t be mentioned as this isn’t an election, but one person has been chosen.
•    The winner is an example to us all and has done a lot of work in the village.  We have decided to present a clock to Mrs Mair Griffiths as a sign of our appreciation.  Mrs Griffiths is very supportive of everything that goes on in the village and thoroughly deserves this award. Mrs Griffiths thanked everyone that voted for her and was very appreciative of the clock., but added that the best way for the community to show appreciation was them to support the activities that are arranged in the village.  There are a number of events organised over the next few weeks and would ask people to be supportive.
•    The Chairman once again thanked Mrs Griffiths and said he was an example to us all.

Minutes of Last Meeting

•    Agreed they were correct

Young People’s Project – Pavilion Update

•    We have received two letters (read to all later).
•    There has been a meeting between Cllr. Siân Thomas, Cindy and Alana, from Menter Cwm Gwendraeth (MCG), members of the Rugby Clubs and the park.  An agreement was reached as to what rooms can be used by whom, so things are moving forward.
•    As the opening of the Pavilion has been delayed until September, the Mobi will return to Penygroes on a weekly basis until then.
•    Funding is needed in order to equip the youth club.  Sports Aid has pledged to donate £300, but more money will be needed.  We have one room but need some furniture for it, as the Forum has raised some money, the Chair suggested a sum of £500 be donated to the project.  We have over £2,000 available.  The figure was proposed and seconded.
•    It was agreed that Eleri Davies would work and co-ordinate with Alana & Cindy on behalf of the Forum.
•    A question was raised as to the result of the meeting at the Rugby club regarding setting up another group to deal with youth matters.  At that meeting, the majority of those present felt that there was no need for another group to be set up and that it would be better to have a sub-committee within the Forum to deal with this.
•    At the meeting, Mr Sutton mentioned that he had £500,000 in an envelope, but it seems he had a grant application form and not the money itself.  Part of this figure was to come from sports lottery grant, but since the fund has been limited to grants of £750 or under, this would be unlikely to take the young people’s project very far.  Mr Sutton disputed this. Mr Sutton’s group want to demolish the pavilion but over £100,000 has been spent already on new equipment for the park and further £83,000 on the pavilion.  Most people agreed there was no need.
•    Councillor Siân Thomas said she had received a letter from Mr Sutton, which attacked her personally, but it couldn’t be shown as it is now in the hands of the County Council’s solicitors.  The Chair of the Forum also received a strongly-worded letter but had not, as yet, decided what to do with it.
•    A letter responding to the offer of the Penygroes Children & Youth Community Group becoming part of Forum was read to all present by Mark Waygood.
•    A further letter was read by the chair from the County Council Chef Executive addressed to Mr Sutton (cc to Cllr. Thomas, Alun Lewis, Wendy Walters etc.) commending him on his ideas but highlighting the fact that a new pavilion was not a feasible proposition.
•    The Chair stated that party politics were left outside the Forum and that it would work with people from all political parties to improve the lives of residents from Blaenau, Caerbryn & Penygroes and wanted it noted that he himself has serious reservations about The Penygroes Children & Youth Community Project, where and when they meet, their constitution, whether they have an AGM etc.
•    A proposal was put from the floor that the Forum send a letter to Mr Sutton’s group politely declining the offer to send any Forum representatives, but once again offering the opportunity for his group to join the Forum in a joint effort, as it is well established and recognized by all other organisations and bodies.  The motion was carried.

Games Evening at Penygroes Hall

•    The date for the Games Evening is 6pm – 8pm, Thursday 6th July.  The Short  Mat Bowls Club are giving up their usual session at the Hall in order to help with the event.  Some young people are now part of the bowls team.  There were three 15 year olds at the prize giving last week.
•    Could anyone who wishes to help out that evening (and we do need a lot!) contact Yvonne Kelly.
•    Tea and coffee will be supplied free again, but there will be an entry fee, it was £1 last year.
•    There will be a climbing wall this time.
•    The Games Evening will be an opportunity for the young and old to mix together.

Building Developments –  A Brief Update

•    A letter was read out from Protex in answer to a number of points raised.
•    Residents of 84-110 Norton Road have been informed that Protex are working on their boundary.
•    John Davies has been given additional material to support boundary claims.
•    No 84 Norton Road has been informed about new parking arrangements for this property.
•    The Environment Agency has reported back to Phil Owen that the site is clear of oil contamination.
•    The remaining Japanese knotweed is being eradicated from the site.
•    Final reinstatement of the pipe trench on Plas Gwyn Road, Bridge St. and Waterloo Rd. is scheduled for 14th June (2-3 days).
•    The Council have said they will have to repair the road as it’s in very poor condition.
•    The Chair is writing to John Taylor (in his capacity as community councillor) regarding the site surface work that is being carried out will cause problems when it rains as it will just run of the surface and into the rear gardens in Norton road as it has nowhere else to go.
•    Can Siân Thomas write a letter to the council planning department to find out what is happening?  The rainwater gutter from the concrete works has been blocked up at the bottom near Caersalem.  We need to make two complaints, one to Hydrology and one to Highways.  If we have a prolonged period of rain, the mess will be washed down to the square.
•    Phil Owen said that he had not heard from the E.A. that the site was clear.
•    Peter Roberts said he had seen the dark brown oil contaminant when he passed the site a few days earlier.
•    Phil Owen was surprised that Protex have been allowed to take their own samples for testing.  So far all that has happened is that the oil patch has been covered up.
•    Phil Owen has sent photographic evidence to the E.A., copied to Protex.  The E.A. has not replied but he has met with Protex to be shown the contamination, but has heard nothing further.
•    Complaints have been made to Victoria King (noise dept.) regarding the noise when the large earth moving equipment starts at 7.30am.  If it continues, she will be coming out to see for herself.  The vibration is shaking windows.
•    Siân Thomas has received and forwarded two complaints, but is waiting a reply.
•    Is it true they have permission to work for 7 till 7 for 6 weeks and 8 till 1 on Saturdays?
•    Didn’t the original planning show noise baffles?
•    The Chair believes that the site should have a qualified civil engineer running the site.
•    Siân Thomas has put formal complaints in about Gorsddu Rd, but the highways are £43m in arrears.
•    The Chair suggested we go the County Council and protest about the conditions that the residents have to put up with.  Let’s have Eifion Bowen and the planning department answer our complaints.
•    We are still waiting for the tanks to go in, they seem to be carrying out the works backwards and cannot understand the order they are doing things in.  The understanding was the drainage was being done first!
•    We should ask Eifion Bowen, Mark James and the Highways Department to come to one of these meetings to discuss the situation and show them that as a village we are not happy with his officers.

Gardening Club - Report from Julian Tandy

•    Flower cauldrons and some other plants are being prepared by Gardening Club members for the ‘Strawberry tea’ day.
•    Plants, pots and compost have been delivered to both ward schools for some of the children to grow and plant on. These can then be entered in a special category in the Penygroes Flower Show.
•    Planting scheme for the Community garden has been worked out. We now require written quotes for the plants and for the ‘building’ work and hard landscaping of the site.
•    Date of the flower show is confirmed as July 22nd at the Rugby Club with entries open from 10am -12:30 pm

Community Development Officer

•    Siân Thomas is getting together with Yvonne to work out a budget and the financial planning but the officer assisting us at MCG as finished.
•    The chair suggested that this be concluded as soon as possible because a development officer will be able to do so much for the community.

Notice Board

•    Yvonne Watkins has been talking to MCG to have a notice board placed outside the hall similar to the one in the square at Gorslas.
•    Ideas to what you would like to see on the board are welcome including village history and local news etc.


A.O.B.

•    The fun day will not be going ahead but a Strawberry Tea day will be taking place on the 8th July, with stalls in or outside the hall.
•    Last week we had the BBQ and the money has started to come in slowly.
•    Anyone that wants to come to the fund-raising meeting in the Farmers on Thursday is welcome.
•    Question to Siân from the floor regarding the land in Saron towards Llandybie.  The new road has been put in but they haven’t replaced the hedges.  Do we know what’s happening there?
•    Siân had received an email and it is between the solicitors for the council and the landowners.
•    Question from the floor about the walking club. Mark Durdin has to complete a course before we can go on a council insured walk, and he hasn’t received details on the course yet.
•    The Treasurer confirmed the Forum has just over £2,000.  £500 will be donated to the Youth Project.
•    Cllr. Siân Thomas asked that the Forum speak to every society in the Ward to get them to write a letter of support if Penygroes wants to submit an application for a development officer.
•    The Chair said we have to co-ordinate this as there are a number of grants that have been submitted.
•    Marie Hughes-Jones showed all present what other communities are doing with their local newsletters.  There will be set up costs but local businesses can help support it.  Is there any budget allowance for this?  More information needs to be collected and local businesses contacted to assess interest and feasibility.
•    The costs will go up if we have it in colour but we need something bigger and easier to read.  If local companies can get involved it can become a sustainable project.
•    If we apply for a grant we have to be careful because a great deal of responsibility goes with these grants.
•    The chair proposed a small meeting with four or five people to discuss the grant application situation.  Julian Tandy agreed to chair the meeting, Eleri Davies, Marie Hughes-Jones and Yvonne Kelly agreed to be on a sub-committee.

Meeting Closed

Next meeting Tuesday 11th July at Caerbryn Hall

Present

Alun Lewis (Chair), Mark Waygood (Co-Secretary), Marie Hughes-Jones (Co-Secretary), Yvonne Kelly (Treasurer), Kevin Kelly, Julian Tandy, LR Reynolds, B Atkinson, Yvonne Watkins, Mair Griffiths, Nicola Davies, Llinos Hindley, Peter Roberts, Emma Armstrong, Nicola Davies, Cyng. Siân Thomas, J Evans, L Evans, Marion Jones, Julie Owen, Vicky Thomas, Richard Sutton, Lisa Mahoney, Alana Davies, Huw Evans (Menter Cwm Gwendraeth)

Apologies

Phil Owen, Steven Lewis, Edania Davies, Mark Durdin

Minutes of last meeting

•    Games Night – Exact dates to be confirmed.  All types of games and hope to have a successful night like last year.
•    Development Worker – Llandybie CC has been approached for the 20% shortfall and they have agreed in principle.  Menter Cym Gwendraeth and Llandybie CC require more details.  We didn’t have much luck last time except for the Bowls Club and Caerbryn Hall.  This time we need to have set tasks for the worker to pursue.
•    Walk – Mark Durdin was not in attendance but he will attend a walking course organised by Carmarthenshire CC.  Proposal to hold a meeting in the Farmers Pub to decide what type of walks we want.
•    Fundraising – Village of the year award – Alun & Marie to meet and discuss.
Volunteer of the year competition.  Only residents of Blaenau, Caebryn and Penygroes will be eligible for this award.  Nomination forms and posters are to be distributed.  Important to ensure a person cannot vote for them selves.  Protex will help pay for award, the format of which has still to be agreed.
•    Newsletter – Huw to look into this and a sub committee meeting will be arranged as sponsorship from local businesses to help fund the newsletter may not be that easy to obtain.
•    Dog Fouling – The situation seems to have improved on the main roads.  It appears the newsletter article worked.  It may be worth inserting this message into the newsletter every six months (to be reviewed).

AGENDA

Emlyn Update

•    The local roads where the pipe has been laid are to be repaired properly when the pipe laying is completed, they must do this by law.
•    Protex now own No1 Waterloo Road.  John Taylor has said it is for his staff to stay in.  Do they want to use the land for a road?  There may be problems behind the hall; the site is riddled with shafts.

Newsletter

•    Items are needed for the newsletter as soon as possible.

Fundraising

•    So far we are on target with £1,200 banked.
•    BBQ organised for the 13/5 at the Farmers
•    The weekly fundraising meeting is at the Farmers tomorrow (Wed 13/4).
•    We are on course to raise over £3,500 for other youth projects.
•    Penygroes Youth Community has cancelled their ‘Fun Day in the Park’.  Our ‘Fun Day’ is going ahead.
•    What about a car boot sale, may ask for stall to be paid for but sellers can keep the profit?
•    Insurance has to be paid for so may ask for a contribution from stall-holders.
•    There is a great deal organised to help raise money for the Forum.

Gardening Club

•    The first meeting was held last month.
•    The local flower show is on the 22/7 (last year it was on the  9/7)
•    There is a Hanging Basket (front gardens only) prize.  Judges will be walking around the area one week before the show.
•    A bank account has been opened for the club.  
•    Spring Gardening Club trip to Cymderri Vineyard and Colbys National Trust.  Trip is open to G.C members only.  
•    Membership is only £2 and includes a 10% discount ant Caerbryn Garden Centre etc.  Gardening classes are free for everyone.
•    Community Garden – There is a meeting with Mervin Morgan.  Because of the need for improved access for people with disabilities, the Library path currently does not meet regulations.  The community garden is affected as the path will probably take a zig-zag pattern, which will take up much of the space originally earmarked for the garden.  Plans will have to be re-drawn, but this may be to the Gardening Club’s advantage.
•    A grant application for a maximum of £5,000 is going to be submitted.  Eleri Davies is helping the G.C. get the grant and is quite confident we will get it but designs are not complete yet.

The Park

•    Cllr. Siân Thomas has spoken to the Head of Parks and it looks as though we may have the money for play equipment for the park.
•    We have been given permission to plant where the old bowls green used to be so long as it is maintained.
•    We could plant trees or have benches, funding could be donated via the Forum.
•    The plot near the green was considered as the location for the Community Garden at 12 months ago but considered too big.  The Library was a better choice because it is more easily seen by passers-by and would play a part in the improvements to the general appearance of the village.
•    Perhaps the local school children could start a project, ie. Fit in with the Ecoschools initiative.

Young Peoples Project

•    A video presentation was given to all present by M.C.G. Young Peoples Project
•    Cllr. Sian Thomas was thanked for lobbying the County Council to fund the renovation of the Pavilion.
•    The youth club should be ready in two months.
•    Some individuals have raised concerns over the condition of the Pavilion.
•    Menter Cwm Gwendraeth’s youth team have consulted extensively with the youngsters of Penygroes and they have been actively encouraging the young people to get involved as it gives them a sense of ownership and are less likely to cause damage to the facilities provided for them.
•    Suggestions have been made to hold workshops once a month at the hall about Drug Abuse, Sexual Health, Bullying, etc.
•    Past experience has shown that halls do not work very well as a venue for Youth Clubs.
•    It is planned to hold the Youth Club on Monday Evenings.  It may be possible to get volunteers from the club itself.
•    All volunteers must have a CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) Check.  Drefach has a club, which is run with only two volunteers.
•    Initially, all three Menter Cwm Gwendraeth youth. workers will run the club until volunteers can be trained etc.
•    A question was raised about problems running a youth club.  It was confirmed that there were problems from time to time (inevitably), so the evening may be split, 11-14 age group between 5-7pm for example.
•    The Chair confirmed that money will continue to be raised and that the Forum can be approached if aid is required.
•    Further meetings with the local youth are planned.
•    The Chair thanked members of the Young Peoples Project.
•    Suggestions to help project.  Letters to be sent to parents and to arrange a meeting where concerns can be raised.  Some parents have shown an interest in getting something arranged for children of primary school age.


MEETING CLOSED 

NEXT MEETING 9TH MAY AT CAERBRN HALL

Present

NE Cole Jones, Malcolm Rees, Colyn Whitelaw, P Gully, Llinos Lindley, Nicola Davies, A Howells, M Durdin, Janet Evans, Edania Davies, Yvonne Watkins, Mair Griffiths, B Atkinson. V Davies, John Davies, Phil Owen, Yvonne Kelly (Treasurer), Marie Hughes Jones (Secretary), Mark Waygood (Vice-secretary), Alun Lewis (Chair), Rhian Dawson, Dolen Iechyd/Healthlink, Huw Evans, Menter Cwm Gwendraeth

Apologies

Siân Thomas, Julie Tandy, Julie Owen, Eleri Davies

Guest Speaker

The Chair introduced Rhian Dawson from the Dolen Iechyd (Health Link) Project.
Her job is to liaise with local communities (currently 60 groups, national & voluntary) and be an interface between these communities and the Health Authority.  This is the first project of its kind in the UK.

Objectives

To improve the health and wellbeing of local communities by initiating programs to educate (all age groups) the importance of exercise, a good diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Particular Areas of Concern:

•    M.S.
•    Substance abuse
•    Testicular Cancer and Breast problems (16-25’s most affected)
•    Young smokers (particularly girls)
•    Long Term Unemployed.  Incapacity & Disability benefits are currently under review.
•    Teenage pregnancies.  There are currently four ‘reality babies’ available.

Local Groups that can help:

•    Youth workers
•    G.P.s
•    Expert Patients (support for people with long term health problems)
•    Health Visitors
•    Residents Associations etc.

The Way Forward:

•    Re-training (criminals, substance abuse etc.)
•    Green Gyms (gardening clubs, walking clubs etc), as land is available.
•    Inform about projects that are available (problems in the past with poor communication.

This is a three-year project and Rhian wants to have a good relationship with the community but will need a list of all local groups so she can make contact with them (Marie and Alun to supply).

Matters Arising From Last Months Minutes

Christmas Fayre

•    Raised £249.89, a reasonable turnout considering all the other events that were on.

Training

•    No news at the moment, there are only a limited number of laptops available so evening courses are difficult.  We will have to try for morning courses.

Emlyn Site Progress Report

•    A separate report will be submitted from the Emlyn Site Sub Committee.

Youth Project.

•    After a meeting last week, children to the age of 11 will be able to use the hall up to 7pm every night.
•    Enough children want to go but there will be staffing problems.  There are now Police checks for every task, these checks cost money and then there are other costs (public liability insurance, solicitors etc.).
•    Many people do not want the Police checking on them.
•    No work going on in the park until the appeal is completed.
•    The pavilion would be perfect but we need to speak to the Cricket and Rugby club plus the County Council.
•    Siân Thomas what grants are available for these projects but is not a member of the group.  Table tennis & Darts shouldn’t be a problem as there is £2,000 in the bank.
•    Young people are a priority, Sports Aid have given money to others.  A pool table has already been offered.
•    There is concern about the damage 33 children could do as the hall is probably not the best place to hold a club.  
•    There are six computers that could be sent to the Pavilion for the children to play games on.
•    It seems that some members of the rugby club are keen to help but it depends on who you speak to as the story changes.
•    Whilst the Rugby season is on there will be a place for the children to go and practice as the lights will be on.  It’s better that they are off the streets.

Walking Club

•    Boxing Day walk to Caerbryn then Carmel and back was a great success.  Twenty five people took part (young and old) and it took 2 hours (with plenty of breaks).
•    Request have been made to make this more regular and there should be one around Easter (2-3 hours).  A message will be in the next newsletter.
•    There are other clubs around but we don’t want to become like the Ramblers Assocciation.
•    Let John Davis know, who can run it.  A car can be taken to stop along the way for emergencies.
•    We can organise a picnic in the summer.  Better for children to be out mixing with adults and learning about nature than sitting at home doing nothing.

Fund Raising

•    Still need ideas for fund raising.  The money is for the community.  The last Fun Day raised £800.
•    Do we want a Fun Day in the Park, let the ‘Chair’ know.
•    The Flower Show was originally laughed at but was a great success.
•    Ideas – Childrens competitions, a Fete, perhaps Majorettes, Cheese and Wine Party.
•    Wine in the price of a ticket can be for own use only and cannot be given to someone else.
•    Need to have this clarified as people expect alcohol to be available at these type of events and some are less likely to attend if alcohol is not present.

A.O.B.

•    Could the forum send a letter on behalf of the village about the new from Tregib that the swimming pool is not going ahead.  Make known that it is a necessity and not a luxury.
•    £3,000 was raised last time but assured from head teacher that raising money would not be necessary.
•    The Children of Penygroes would benefit, Llandybie raised £12,000 towards it.
•    Chair suggested calling a public meeting but would not chair it.
•    Dog fouling has become a serious issue in the village, in some places you have to walk in the road if you have a pram.
•    Suggestions for naming and shaming, taking photos of owners allowing it and having someone prosecuted as a warning to others.  Posters / signs to be placed.
•    AGM for Menter Cwm Gwendraeth 7pm, 1st February in Tumble hall, with refreshments.

Meeting Closed

PLEASE NOTE  - Next Meeting – 7th February 2006 –  CALFARIA CHAPEL VESTRY
Emlyn Sub Committee Meeting 2nd February 2006