Swansea News Headlines

Anyone living in or around the Mumbles…..or even anyone who passes through the area, will have felt the hard blow brought on by the new set of lights at the junction of Langland/Newton Road outside Mumbles Baptist Church.

What used to be a simple t-junction that happily satisfied the needs and wants of the local traffic and community, has been turned into a logistical nightmare. With safety in mind, of course, the Council has put these lights in place….and could not have possibly seen the problems that it would cause…..the Queens Road being such an inconspicuous alternative route! Whatever the Council's reasoning and shortfalls in insight, the traffic is pilling up along the one-way Queens Road, causing safety issues of its own.

Some local people have highlighted possible reasoning behind the implementation of the new lighting system…it seems at the end of each financial year, the Council look to see whether it has any of its budget left to spend…if so, it quickly, and sometimes thoughtlessly, forks out the money…quite simply, to make sure it receives the same amount, if not more, in funding the following year. This would account, say locals, for the new lights outside Mumbles Baptist Church and the havoc being caused.

With the summer months looming and the usual inundation of tourists expected, the problems are set to become far worse…..unless the Council are willing to admit defeat and put the lights out?

May bank holiday weekend is normally the time we welcome the forthcoming summer with open arms. Once again we can do so in style with a fantastic line up at the Mumbles Mostly Jazz and Blues Festival.

 The festival will kick off with the funky jazz belonging to the Average White Bands founder member, lead singer and guitarist Hamish Stuart. Hamish played for six years with Paul McCartney and is set to dazzle us all with his soulful renditions.

 The line up will include the Spikedrivers, an American Band, have been said to "conjure a presence, a sense of place, from a sound" according to the magazine 'Blues in Britain'. The Baddest Blues Band, The Hamsters, and Lee Gibson will all be making an appearance with the piece de resistance being brought by the BBC Big Band on Sunday evening.

 Altogether it is an eclectic array of sounds that is not to be missed! A style to suit every palate and a chance to experience some of the greatest musicians in Jazz and Blues.                      Â

 www.mumblesmostlyjazzandblues.co.uk

Â

Adam Bere of the Mumbles Lifeboat Crew is going to be running the 2008 London Marathon in aid of the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) on April 13^th. Obviously, Adam has a close connection to the RNLI and although he himself has never had to call upon its services, he values the organisations support most highly.

Each Lifeboat Crew member gives a huge amount of his or her personal time to becoming trained to save lives at sea.  The training required is to ensure that the crews, who risk their own lives, are able to go out to sea and return as safely as possible. For that reason, says Adam "I am running the London Marathon in order to help raise money for the 'Train One Save Many' campaign which is vital to turning volunteers into lifesavers." You can support this worthy cause by donating through Adams link to 'Just Giving' on the website below and is a simple, fast and secure way of making your contribution.

 www.mumbleslifeboat.org.uk

www.justgiving.com/adambere

Launched on March 31^st, this year Mumbles In Bloom will be hosting a brand new category for first time entries to encourage the residents of Mumbles to enter the competition. This is due to the previous years judges comments that they were disappointed to see so few of the beautiful gardens from the local area not being entered.

The team of judges will consist of Ian Scott and Steve Prothero. Tips from the judges include: keeping your plants watered and nourished…they will not only be looking at the floral display, and if you will be displaying potted plans, the judges like to see them full with the plants cascading down the sides.

The Judging will commence on July 12^th and the closing date for the competition is 28^th June. The social event and prize giving will take place on September 10^th with all who entered being invited. Entry forms are available from the Council Office on Walters Crescent in Mumbles.

Langlands 79 beach huts were constructed in the 1920's and are an important part of the costal landscape, particularly close to the heats of the local residents.

The City and Council of Swansea have put forward plans to secure the long term future of the huts in an attempt to make sure that they are around to be enjoyed by future generations. This sounds all well and good, but when you get down to the small print, it seems more like a 'get rich quick scheme', possibly to the detriment of the local landscape and community.

Under the new letting scheme, members of the public will be invited to purchase a 10 year leasehold interest in a new beach hut for the price of £10,000 (plus V.A.T @ 17.5%). It's an extra £2000 if you wish to specify which particular hut you wish to lease. Not forgetting the £400 Council's Legal and Surveyors Costs and the fact that you will be held responsible for all damage, repairs and maintenance. I think it is fair to say this is far from a good deal.

 

Originally built in 1898, Mumbles Pier is a quaint and important part of the areas local history. Unfortunately, despite annual maintenance, the Pier is in desperate need of a revamp and Ameco, the family form that has owned the Pier for 70 years, say around £4 million is needed for rebuilding work. 

The Pier itself does not provide a wealth of profit...the land surrounding the Pier, it is hoped, will do. The plans include the demolishment of the existing Pier Hotel, and a redevelopment of the site to include a luxury 150 bedroom Hotel and Spa.. Also proposed were things like a conference and exhibition centre, restaurants and a new seaside promenade. 

Swansea City Council and Mumbles Tourist Association have been pleased with the proposals to date and are very enthusiastic about the scheme and it is easy to see why. Although the existing Pier is close to most peoples hearts who live in the area, with the 450 jobs likely to be created during the revamp, and the 250 after completion, along with its dilapidated condition, most would not object to a little tasteful sprucing up.

Mumbles has many romantic attractions and the Lovespoon gallery is by far one of it's most enchanting.

Situated in the heart of Mumbles village this classy gallery is very unique, offering traditionally hand carved and beautifully finished lovespoons.

The original lovespoon specialist has souvenirs for anniversaries, weddings, christenings, birthdays and many other important occasions.

So, when visiting Mumbles you can take a little bit of Wales home with you.

For further information go to www.lovespoons.co.uk

For the best surfing lessons, approved by Wales tourist board, why not take a trip down to the 'Progress surf academy' based in Caswell and Llangennith beaches, Gower, South Wales.

The approved B.S.A surf school is second to none when it comes to surfing instruction.

Open 7 days a week the club offers first class tutorial with cutting edge equipment from beginners to advanced level including:

• first time lessons,
• improver lessons,
• advanced coaching,
• photo/video sessions.

The Gower coast presents stunning scenery with beaches and night life that will take your breath away, with friendly intensive coaching and some of the best surfing in Wales the 'Progress surf academy' is the place to learn all your surfing skills.

For further information go to www.progressworld.co.uk or ring 01792 361379

Mumbles is famous for a number of reasons and hand crafted pottery is one growing attraction that captures the visitor's hearts.

Let loose and discover your creative side whilst you throw a pot and paint your very own creation at Mumbles Pottery, 626 Mumbles Road (opposite the children's playground). Experience the warm and friendly welcome and browse through the individual selections of hand crafted gifts, ideal for that Easter Present.

If you are an outdoor type of a person then a visit to Dryad Bushcraft is a must for you.

Bushcraft is the art of survival in the wilderness using traditional skills along with modern survival equipment.

The Gower Peninsula covers an area of 188 square km and Dryad Bushcraft offers a range of activity courses that will leave you with a sense of well-being and achievement that can't be gained any other way.

Learn how to light a fire the old way, using the friction bow drill method or sample some gourmet wilderness cuisine. There is so much more to learn, fun to be had and wilderness to experience with Dryad Bushcraft.

For further information contact 01792 547213 or visit http://www.dryadbushcraft.co.uk

There's no better way to experience the Mumbles and Gower coast than in an open top vintage bus.

The tours, run by the Gower heritage centre, is a great way to travel with all the family. The bus leaves a number of set points in the city centre and Mumbles making it's way to the heritage centre taking in the breathtaking Mumbles and Gower landscapes along the way.

The centre offers a fun and educational day out that has something for all the family from live demonstrations, animal feeding, play areas, puppet shows, restaurant and gift shops.

For further information contact the centre on 01792 371206 or go to www.gowerheritagecentre.co.uk

All Seasons Gourmet catering with Chef Sam Mullan is the latest culinary offering to come to the city of Swansea. Sam and All Seasons offer a variety of services from wedding catering to a revolutionary dinner party service where Sam will cook for you and your guests in your own kitchen. Everything is made on site and you can either choose to sit back and relax with your friends or take some tips.

Having learnt from some of the best chefs in the industry. This grounding gave Sam a chance to excel in a career that he loves and with such a revolutionary service as this to hit Swansea hopefully he will be coming to a kitchen near you very soon.

Speaking to Mumbles.co.uk, Sam said "I am very excited about the launch of All Seasons it's been 2 years in the planning and now we are ready to cook for you! It's coincided with Christmas, which is one of my favourite times of the year to be in the kitchen, I will have my Christmas menu on the website in the coming weeks."

You can visit Sam's website @ http://www.allseasonsgourmet.co.uk

Norton house hotel and restaurant is often referred to as one of Mumbles best kept secrets. This historic 18^th century former mariner's house has a low profile marketing approach, but yet it has graced Michael Winners lifestyle column in the Sunday times in which he stated, the food was ' beyond description' and ' recommended without hesitation'

This elegant listed manor house set in a peaceful grounds with ample parking is the perfect way to enjoy and stay in this wonderful part of Mumbles.

Just minutes away from the ever popular and busy Swansea bay and Mumbles village, this award winning restaurant is open every day for lunch and evening meals as well as the unforgettable Sunday lunches.

Catering for weddings, conferences, birthday parties and more, Norton house is certain to oblige for any occasion

For further information telephone 01792 404891 or go to www.nortonhouse.co.uk

Dylan Thomas is arguably Wales' greatest writer and the Dylan Thomas Centre is the place to visit to experience the only major permanent exhibition celebrating the great man and his achievements.

Open from 10am

The West Glamorgan local group for the Royal Society of the protection of birds (RSPB) are holding an eye opening bird watching open day.

On Sunday 7^th January from 10am

If 2007 is your year to get fit and healthy there's no better way to start than with a visit to the Mumbles local produce market.

On Saturday 13^th January (and every 2^nd Saturday of the month) the produce market will be underway, selling the very best in local fresh fruit and vegetables. The market is held from 9am

Once again the SA1 development provides Swansea with another unique attraction. The Village Hotel and Leisure club situated on Langdon Road, off Fabian Way is an exciting new addition to the ever expanding SA1 Development. The hotel has 115 spacious modern bedrooms and a number of outstanding leisure facilities including a 25m pool, 4,500 square foot gym, whirlpool spa, steam room and sauna within the luxurious surroundings.

There is, as you would expect, an excellent choice of dining options, with a restaurant, bar, village pub and a modern cafe on offer to provide the very best service. With ample free parking the Village Hotel is a stylish and comfortable way to stay in Swansea.

There

Christmas Street and craft markets in Swansea

From 19^th November

Since June of 2005, Graham Anthony is rapidly establishing himself with rave revues for his Singing Talents, throughout Swansea, South Wales, West Country and even further a field in the Canary Islands.

Graham who lives in Mumbles, started Singing when he was 9 years old, but his professional career, has taken off since last year.

Graham regularly appears on his home soil and has performed local gigs at Swansea Social Clubs, Workingmen's Clubs and a few at Public Houses and Hotels. In the past he appeared at The Village Inn in Mumbles and also the old Mumbles British Legion, prior to its sad closure.

Graham has recently completed an Album of his favorite songs, some of which are featured in his acts and the Album released in July 2006 is called 'IN MANY RESPECTS'.

Graham has recently been instrumental in constructing a web site and the web site features some sample songs together with forthcoming venues, testimonials and news features.

He has been in great demand recently and his talents are taking him far and wide.

His diary for next year is completely booked up until October 2007.

Graham has a passion and love for his music and performing that reflects upon the audience he plays to, he has the ability to gauge the mood and perform to all age groups with popular songs from all generations and he likes to sing very powerful ballads, love songs and contemporary music together with modern popular music.

His style is not tributary but he pays tribute to many of the greatest Singers, Male and Female in his own inimitable way.

You can visit Graham's new website @ http://www.grahamanthony.co.uk

November 5th will see the annual fireworks display at St Helens rugby ground, Oystermouth road, Swansea. Gates open at 5.30pm with entertainment from Real radio at 6.45pm with the show starting at 7.30pm.

With a dazzling array of fireworks and lasers the show is guaranteed to be an exceptional event. This years theme is based on around the world in 80 days and the show is on course to be one of the finest and most breathtaking ever staged at the ground.

Tickets to the explosive and most memorable event of the year can be bought on line at www.ticketweb.co.uk or from Bishopston Sports Centre, Cefn Hengoed Leisure Centre, Morriston Leisure Centre, Penlan Leisure Centre, Penyrheol Leisure Centre, Casher Offices at The Guildhall and County Hall and Grand Theatre Box Office 01792 475715 .

Tickets bought in advance start from GBP1.70 with a passport to leisure.

For further information go to www.swansea.gov.uk/fireworks or telephone 01792 635428.

Be sure to tune in to BBC 1 Wales this Monday evening, ( 23^rd Oct 7pm) as Rhodri Griffiths answers calls from local Clifton Terrace owners to try and sort out the problem of the retaining wall which has caused their road to be closed for nearly 2 years.

In a statement received by the owners of 730 Mumbles Road the BBC X-Ray program say

With stunning views of the marina and swansea bay this brand new state of the art museum is a fantastic day out.

This landmark building made of welsh slate,steel and glass is truly remarkable. It has 15 themed galleries and more than 100 audio visual exhibits and that includes 36 interactive displays.

Just five minutes from the city centre and moments from some of the cities best restaurants bars and hotels this amazing attraction has to be on the top of anyones list visiting the city.

The museum is open seven days a week from 10am-5pm.

For more information go to www.waterfrontmuseum.co.uk or telephone 01792 638950

This picturesque lay-out includes indoor ice-skating, bowling, cafe/bars and a fantastic amusement arcade. With friendly and helpful staff this ia a must to anyone visiting Mumbles.

Opening times are Monday to Friday 3pm to 10pm with entrance onto the ice until 9.30pm, weekends are 11am to 10pm. Food are drinks are also available.

For furter information go to www.mumbles-pier.co.uk or phone 01792 365230