The ninth month of the old Roman year, which began with March. The 11th of November was held to mark the beginning of Winter—today it has another meaning, namely, Remembrance Day—the Anglo-Saxon name for November was 'Blotmonath; [blood-month] the latter name probably alluding to the custom of slaughtering cattle about Martinmas for winter consumption..

Saint's Days
Nov 1 All Saints' Day
Nov 2 All Souls' Day
Nov 11 St Martin 's
Nov 22 St Cecelia's
Nov 25 St Catherine's
Nov 30 St Andrew's

Mottoes
'November take flail,
Let no ships sail!

'These early November hours
That crimson the creeper's leaf across Like a splash of blood, intense, abrupt, O'er a shield; else gold from rim to boss Anol lay it for snow on the fairy-cupped Elf-needled mat of moss.'
R. Browning

Song Thrush
Like as the thrush in winter, when the skies Are drear and dark, and all the woods are bare, Sings undismayed, till from his melodies Odours of Spring, float through the frozen air,
 
So in my heart when sorrow's icy breath Is bleak and bitter and its frost is strong; Leaps up, defiant of despair and death A sunlit fountain of triumphant song.
Sing on sweet-singer till the violets come And south winds blow, sing on prophetic bird! o if my lips, which are forever dumb Could sing to men what my sad heart has heard Life's darkest hour with songs of joy would ring, Life's blackest frost would blossom into Spring
Edmond Holmes

The winter months are here again and with this in mind, we've put together some seasonal safety tips to keep your pets fit and healthy!
Christmas is a time of giving, but don't forget that chocolate [a great Christmas favourite!] can be lethal to dogs. The toxic component in chocolate is throbromine which is present in variable concentrations—the higher the cocoa content, the more toxic the chocolate. Specially formulated pet chocolate is the safer [but still fattening] option for chocoholics feeling sorry for their pets!
While on the subject of food, we are naturally less active in the winter, and this—together with a little Christmas over indulgence, can lead to an expanding waistline in our pets [and sadly ourselves!].
One way to try to avoid this is to moderately reduce food levels when pets are less active and to keep an eye on your pet's weight.
Remember also that while it is tempting to give your pet treats at Christmas, any sudden change in diet can lead to quite severe digestive upsets.
As well as food, pets are often on the look out for anything else they can eat! Christmas decorations—in particular ribbons and tinsel, are very attractive to pets, and if swallowed, may lead to an intestinal blockage.

Out and about, with the cold weather upon us, now is the time when we all start to feel aches and pains and our pets are no exception. Look out for any limps and difficulties in rising after rest; these are signs that your pet may have some joint stiffness—usually made worse by cold or damp weather. If your pet is showing any signs of stiffness or limping, please get in touch.
Pets that live outside can find the winter months especially challenging. Rabbits and Guinea pigs are very susceptible to the cold damp weather. It is important to ensure that their hutches are warm, dry and clean and in a sheltered position. Extra bedding should also be provided and water bottles checked regularly to ensure that they have not become frozen.

Rabbits teeth
You may be surprised to learn that unlike dogs and cats, rabbits have continuously growing teeth—growing at a rate of 1–2mm per week! Dental disease is one of the commonest problems seen in rabbits and usually occurs secondary to tooth overgrowth.
For simplicity, rabbit teeth may be divided into incisors [at the front] and cheek teeth: The incisor teeth should meet,thereby ensuring that as your rabbit chews, they will wear down. If they become mis-aligned they will continue to grow, and will grow past each other. This invariably leads to feeding problems.
Rabbits can also develop a variety of cheek teeth problems. The cheek teeth are grinding teeth, however if they become overgrown they can frequently develop sharp spikes which can lacerate the tongue and cheeks. Symptoms commonly include 'slobbers' with saliva wetting around the month, a decreased appetite and often marked weight loss.
Finally. don't forget that fleas are a year round menace!

While Teg and I were walking towards Pontfadog, a few days ago, I had a perfect example of why stoats are easy targets for gamekeepers. A young stoat, still dull brown rather than the rich chestnut of a mature adult, popped out of the hedge about thirty feet in front of us. Noticing us it started running down the road, but it had not gone twenty feet when it had to stop, sit up and have a look at us. This curiosity of stoats makes them sitting targets for shotguns. The silly thing then continued to run down the road rather than disappear back into the hedge with Teg about fifteen feet behind, obviously thinking this was more interesting than usual. It was over a hundred yards until the field gate, but it didn't divert until it reached that large gap. If it survives the winter, it will be wiser by next year.

On another walk I watched crows mobbing hawks, first three crows against a peregrine. They gave it no chance to gain and use it's wonderful speed, each crow coming in turn and forcing the hawk to jink. After chasing it across the valley they returned doing exuberant aerobatics, as though celebrating seeing off the enemy.

After there were two crows harassing a buzzard, a passing raven, nearly as large as the buzzard joined in. It is something I have seen previously, even magpies have joined in, where as normally crows wouldn't be seen dead in their company. The crow family are believers in the old Persian saying, 'my enemies enemy is my friend'!
Tom Baker, Hyfrydle, Hen Ffordd, Dolywern. Tel. 712835

Declarations of interest: Cllr J. A. Roberts stated he was a member of the bowling club should this arise.
Matters arising from the minutes:
The condition of the roads was a matter of concern. It was agreed to request the highway manager attend a meeting to discuss a schedule of priorities.
Several areas of concern were mentioned. In Llwynmawr the drainage scheme adjacent to The Plough was completed and the residents were pleased with the result.
Economic development will be asked to deal with the road signs on the border.

Reports
Pc Howell made a two month report. A caravan was broken into.
Items were stolen from outbuildings.
A caution was issued for common assault.
Persons were spoken to about misbehaviour.
An arrest was made for multiple thefts covering a very wide rural area, goods were recovered and other possible related crimes are being investigated.
There were no reports of anti social behaviour.
Coucillors reported to the Pc details of waste tipping in the area.
A new CPSO was allocated and operational in the Valley.
Attendance at the Police and Communities meetings was discussed and the clerk will report at the next meeting.

Standing Orders
The new Standing Orders previously issued were adopted without comment.

Other Reports
A seat installed at the roadside at Bro Dewi in Llwynmawr was considered inappropriately placed, apparently with surplus money from the housing account. Councillors overwhelmingly thought it was facing the wrong way, the housing manager will be informed.
Cllr Cooper and the clerk will attend the One Voice Wales Forum in Bangor isa Coed.
Planning
Detailed planning application for renovation of the listed property Llangwryd Ucha Graig Yr Oryn was subject to Listed Building Consent by the Welsh assembly, plans circulated.
Ffynon Deg flat roof conversion granted. land at Y Wern, Dolywern, extension of development time granted.

Finance
The audit by Hacker Young was completed as a clean audit with no comments or recommendations.

Payments
Postage £4.95 audit papers guaranteed delivery
Petty Cash                   £50.00
Ground maintenance     £1023.00
Audit                          £155.25
Internal Audit              £60.00

Clerks salary [six months] Budget 2010/2011, suggestions for the budget should be presented at the October meeting.
Councillors agreed that future maintenance agreements for council property would be subject to sealed tenders being received.

Correspondence
Among the issued list were: A publication of clerks and councils direct. North Wales Fire and Rescue consultation proposals.
A visit to the Welsh Assembly Government by the Valley Councils. This was proposed by Glyn Ceiriog Council and was now scheduled for October 22.
WCBC Mayors Ball, 16 October.
WCBC Town and Community Forum, 6 October, 6.30 pm .
A copy of the chairman's letter to the WCBC ref: Pontfadog School proposals. AOB. A discussion point only.

Ann Smalley welcomed members back from the summer holidays.
Margaret Swift read a poem by Roger McGough entitled, 'Conversation Piece' about the countryside being preserved but that it was not for him as the green green grass just makes him sneeze.

Ann mentioned matters arising from previous meetings including members could follow up the Resolution concerning Honey Bees, which was carried by 99.4 per cent at the AGM in June. Ann had taken a cheque for £112.71 raised at the Glyn Carnival Plant Stall to Nightingale House, then took the opportunity to visit Joan Roberts at Emral House. Ann showed Joan photographs of the 75th Anniversary celebrations in July.
It was agreed that the WI will be having a homemade Cakes and Produce stall at the Community Centre on Saturday, 28 November between 10 am and 1 pm .
Our Institute did very well at the Oswestry Show, with seven members participating. We came fourth in the Co-operative, Anita Chapman got a first in the Photography, June Squires had a second with her Sweet Peas, Janet Jones a third with her Jelly and Ann Smalley a fourth with her scones. As this is only the second time we have entered we were delighted with the results.
Mandy Connor gave her Treasurer's Report and she is in the process of completing the Annual Financial Statement.
The Federation has advised that the national Policing Improvements Agency has been working on an improved national telephone system to be used in a major emergency. Volunteers are needed to test the system during October; they would be given a free 'phone number and have to ring it as many times as possible during a one hour period, and fill in a simple report sheet.
The Speaker for the evening was Mrs Janet Evans from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. Jan is an extremely vibrant lady and her enthusiasm for her work with children and young people in the Education department at Lake Vernwy shines through. Youngsters go to the Centre during the four seasons during which their interest and excitement increases. Jan displayed the different food and feeders used for the birds and the nesting boxes; emphasising the need for good hygiene and especially the type of peanuts purchased. These should be small and hard as the long soft peanuts are poisonous to birds. Members thoroughly enjoyed the quiz when Jan produced 'fluffy' toys that actually mimicked the call of the birds.
Margaret Swift

We would be most grateful if the person who drove a large tractor pulling a trailer of hay past our house in Llanarmon DC on the Llanrhaeadr road on Saturday, 12 September at 8.30pm , and took off a corner of the roof of our house, would they kindly contact us.

Many thanks Diana 01691 600340

We've had the return of Robin Jones with ballads, early rock 'n roll and Welsh songs, a very enjoyable evening was had by all. We had our last trip to the seaside for 2009 to Barmouth, a beautiful, warm, sunny day. As it was term time for the children it was a peaceful day.
We have made our Christmas cake and mincemeat ready for the pies. Harvest Festival produce is being brought in by various organisations, which is much appreciated. We are continuing with our weekly activities such as swimming, bowling at the Venue and walks on a Thursday from the Canolfan Centre in Glyn.

Please don't forget our Christmas Market on Saturday, 28 November.

Would you like to keep your bowling eye in over the winter months, then come along to the Oliver Jones Memorial Hall, Dolywern on a Thursday evening 7–9 pm

Youngsters welcome, accompanied by an adult

For further details contact John Warren on 01691 718772

I read a news report about a woman who hadn't shed a tear in 18 years. The reason for her dry eyes was physical, not emotional. Doctors said, she was a victim of a rare condition called Sjogren's syndrome. For some unknown reason, antibodies attacked her tear glands as if they were undesirable foreign organisms.

This reminds me of a spiritual problem among the people of God, people who should and could cry, but don't. They need to learn what Jesus meant when He said, 'Blessed are those that mourn, for they shall be comforted.' [Mathew 5:4]

Sometimes we think tears are a sign of weakness. But if this were the case, why did Jesus cry? [Luke 19:41] Why did James tell Christians to weep over their sins? [James 4:9]

True, people differ in the way they express their emotions. But literal tears aren't the real issue. What's important is the attitude of the heart. The real issue is how deeply we sense the implications of our sins. Are we filled with godly sorrow? Are we pained by the tragic consequences our sin creates in our relationship with others? I'm not talking about putting on a phony show of sorrow, but do we feel some of the same sorrow God feels about evil? Are we willing to turn from it? Or do we have dry eyes?

The Lord wants us to mourn our sin,
To grieve what brings Him pain;
And if the sorrow changes us,
Our tears won't be in vain. Sper
Let us remember that indifference to evil is a great evil, and that Jesus has come to earth to deliver us from evil.

Your friend in Christ, Glyn
Rev R Glyn Jones,
Bryn Glas,
Glyn Ceiriog,
Llangollen.
LL207EU
Tel: 01691718086 mob: 07760328752

Congratulations to Ynyr Jeffreys Evans on gaining his MA in Countryside Management at Bangor University ; following on from his BSc at Aberystwyth University . We are so proud of you. Da iawn ti.
Love from Morgaine, Eiri-Haf, Nain, Dad a Mam, Coryn, Rhonwen, Peter a Dion.
[we apologise for the omission in the above in last month's edition].

I would like to thank everyone for their enquiries, good wishes and cards during my recent illness. I am glad to say that I am now feeling much better.
Dan Parry

I would like to thank everyone who kindly sent me cards and gifts whilst I was in hospital. Sorry I've been so long in saying 'thanks' but couldn't get the words right. I am much better and hope to be as fit 'as a fiddle', soon. I wish also to thank the District Nurses and the hospital staff too.
Audrey Davies

Bryn would like to say he is now home from hospital and wishes to thank his family and numerous friends, kind neighbours for their cards, gifts and so many phone enquiries. Many thanks to you all, diolch yn fawr.
Bryn Jones

Lorraine Edwards would like to thank everyone who sponsored her on Sunday, 27 September on the Sponsored Walk with Jades & Cancer Research UK , Llangollen Committee. Many thanks.
L. Edwards

Amy and the family of the late Neville Jones would like to thank friends and neighbours for their support and kindness during their recent bereavement, thanks also for all expressions of sympathy and letters of condolence and to Edmund Rowlands and Son, Funeral Directors. Donations amounting to £842.83 have been forwarded to Wrexham Maelor Hospital and to the Parkinsons Society. Thank you all very much, Diolch yn fawr.

Emyr and Margaret Jones and family wish to thank their friends and neighbours for their help during the Sunday Lunch, served in the Marquee at Garreglwyd on 13 September. Thank you to everyone for their raffle prizes and generous donations. A total of £1,800 was raised for Cancer Research UK/Cymru.

Congratulations to Lowri Jones, daughter of Mr and Mrs Emyr Jones, Garreglwyd, on the occasion of her marriage to Paul Mansell at Whittington Castle on 12 September.

I would so much like to thank the people in Tregeiriog for their generosity to the recent NSPCC collection. It can be a bit daunting having to rattle ones tin under peoples noses, especially in these difficult times. You were not only generous in your contributions to a worthy cause, but I came home with produce from your gardens, having had cups of tea and lovely long chats with people I rarely see from one month to the next. I doubt it ever took anybody so long to get round such a small community. Thank you for making it so easy, and I'm afraid I'll probably be round again next year!
Liz Siddall

Christmas Opening of The Pontfadog Waiting Room
The traditional `Christmas Opening' of the Waidng Room will be on Saturday, 12 December 2009 from 10 am until 1 pm.
Please do come along to enjoy friendly conversation, mulled wine, sherry, mince pies, a blazing fire, in the original grate and more.
This new Trust is continuing its project to establish a Heritage Centre at the former GVT loco shed, in Glyn Ceiriog, for the benefit of the Glyn Valley Community.
Richard Andrews - GVT & IHT Editor

An Evening of Entertainment, mainly for Welsh Learners was organised by Menter Iaith Wrecsam and held at The Oak, Glyn Ceiriog. Duets were sung by Rhian Wyn and Robin Bala and Aled Lewis Evans read items of his own poetry.

A meeting of the Ceiriog Valley Women's Branch of the RBL met at the Canolfann Ceiriog Centre on 1st October. In the unavoidable absence of the chairman, the meeting was opened with the Exhortation and Silent Tribute by the secretary, Mrs Anne Northwood. Sympathy was extended to Mrs Amy Jones on her recent bereavement. The election of officers took place and the following were nominated: chairman, Mrs June Chatton; vice-chairman, Mrs Margaret Roberts; secretary/treasurer, Mrs Anne Northwood; standard bearer, Mrs Rose Law. All committee members were re-elected. The secretary read the chairman's report and presented the financial statement. She was thanked for her excellent work throughout the year. Refreshments were served by the committee members.

The Community Council would like to compete in this competition in 2010. Of course it can't do this alone and will need the help and support of residents, young and old. The staff and pupils of Ysgol Cynddelw have already agreed to help and it is hoped that other organisations will participate If you would like to volunteer or help in anyway by sharing ideas and plans then please contact the Council Cerk, Jean Davies on 01691 718419 or speak to your Community Councillor.

Netball and Football
The school teams have been entered in the Wrexham Small Schools League.
The first football game was against Holt Primary School at Ysgol Cynddelw with the first netball game was against Ysgol Deiniol.

100 Club
Thanks to those who have re-joined the 100 Club. It costs £12 per year to join and helps us to pay for all sorts of exciting opportunities for the children.
For further information contact either Mrs Corben or Mrs Lynne Morris.

The School Council
They recently met to discuss ways in which vandalism could be discouraged. Several suggestions were made from writing to the EducationAithority, to the police asking for CCTV and a petition to raise awareness!

Are you interested in learning basic dressmaking and soft fumishing skills?
If so, come along to the Canolfan Ceiriog Centre on Tuesday, 10 November at 7 pm or ring Mrs Anne Northwood on 718672 or Mrs Shirley Terretta on 718402.

The Ceiriog Valley Carnival Fund Raising Group met at the Canolfan Ceiriog Centre on 1st October, the meeting was presided over by the chairman, David Golbourne. Members considered applications for funding which had been received from various local organisations. The total donated from the proceeds of this year's carnival amounted to £2,360. This was shared by the following organisations: Canolfan Ceiriog Centre, Valley Tuesday Day Centre, CPD Glyn Ceiriog FC, the Ceiriog Memorial Institute, Quicksteps School of Dancing, Ceiriog Valley Guides and Brownies, Glyn Valley Tramway & Industrial Heritage Trust, Ceiriog Valley Bowls Club, St Ffraid's Church, Ysgol Cynddelw, The Oliver Jones Memorial Hall and Clwb Rygbi Glyn Ceiriog. Other matters discussed were future fund raising events, these will include Bingo at The Oak on 26 October; a Table Top Sale at the Centre on 28 November; a Christmas Bingo on 4 December at the Centre, 7.30 pm . It was reported that some plans for the 2010 Carnival have been confirmed, the booked items being a Traction Engine, WCBC Mayor, and the Porthywaen Band. Suggestions were then put forward for other items of interest. The next meeting will be held on Thursday, 19 November at 7.30 pm at the Canolfan Ceiriog Centre.

Attendance at the third of the Open Days at the Ceiriog Memorial Institute exceeded all expectations with the committee members kept busy escorting various groups around the hall and museum. A large group, being members of Friends of The National Library at Aberystwyth arrived during the afternoon. All who attended expressed surprise and delight on seeing the numerous stained glass windows together with the varied exhibits on display in the museum. The refreshments provided by the committee were much appreciated.

Shotton
The under 13 team got their season off to a flying start when they beat visitors Shotton 34–7 at Ysgol Cynddelw. Prop Daniel Owen crossed for three tries, the lightning fast Cai Davies grabbed two and new skipper Derwyn Brooks also touched down. Conversions were kicked by Derwyn Brooks and Ciron Davies. The large, vociferous crowd were thrilled by the entertainment, which bodes well for the season.

Dim chwarae
Following the Shotton game the team were looking forward to hosting Welshpool but, unfortunately, our visitors called off due to administration problems. Llangollen, who were due to play our under 8s, were also unable to play for similar reasons. At the time of writing our under 13s were due to play Rhos [away] in mid-October, whilst our under 8s were due to play in Shrewsbury at the end of the month. [Reports next time].

Gemau nesaf
During November we have the following games scheduled:
1st: Bethesda [home] 11.00 am
22nd: COBRA, Meifod [away]
There will also be an adult game at Ysgol Cynddelw on Saturday, 7 November between a Glyn Ceiriog team and Corwen. The game will kick-off at 2.30 pm and the players will retire to 'The Oak' after the game to watch the Wales v New Zealand match.

Stondin Gacennau
Don't forget our Cake Stall on 'The Cross' on Saturday, 31st October from 10.00 am – 12 noon .

Chwaraewyr Newydd
The club continues to attract new players. The under 13s recently welcomed brothers Ben and Aled Roberts and their friend Mitchell Redmore [all from Chirk], whilst the under 8s have recruited brothers Seamus and Lughaidh Power [from Weston Rhyn]. We hope they all enjoy their rugby with us.

The Ceiriog Valley Garden Society Annual Show was held at the Canolfan Ceiriog Centre on Saturday, 12 September and attracted a total of 576 entries. In spite of the difficult growing conditions, the standard of entries was excellent. Thanks go to all the many people who helped to make the day a success, especially Anne Northwood for providing the raffle prizes also Josie Jones and Agnes Holt for serving the refreshments.
Trophies were awarded as follows:
RHS-Banksian Medal for most points for Vegetables, Flowers and Fruit; The Beresford Cup for Most Points in Show; The Pets and Gardens Cup for Most Points for Vegetables; and the Jones Salver for Most Points for Fruit, Ros Greenwood.
The Engraving Plus Salver for Most Points in Floral Art, Shelagh Watkinson; The Society Silver Tray for Most Points in Domestic, and the Edwards Cup for Fuchsias, Rowena Lewis.
The Grover Scroll for Best Exhibit in Handicraft, Anne Northwood.
The Artists Cup for Most Points in Art, Ruth Harding. The Society Cup for Most Points in Photography, Lyndsey Nicholson and Mark White.
The Hughes-Parry Rose Bowl for Most Points for Roses, and the Vase for Best Specimen Rose, Margaret Swift.
The Glyn Ceiriog Council Cup for Most Points for Perennials and The Mike Williams Cup for the Largest Onion, Peter Farthing.
The Glyntraian Shield for Dahlias and the Midland Bank Cup for Vegetable Collection, John Edwards.
The Bates Cup for Large Onions, Mike Williams.
The Founders Cup for Chrysanthemums, Gwyn Roberts.
The Harrop Cup for Sweet Peas was shared by Peter Farthing and Kirsty Williams.
The Pets and Gardens Cup for Indoor Plants, Beverly Buckley.
 
 
Found
Two items were found after the Garden Society Show at the Canolfan Ceiriog Centre on Saturday, 12 September, a small blue pottery vase, and a lined wicker shopping basket. Will owners please contact 01691 718249.

Christmas Dinner and Presentation Evening
This year the Bowling Club's Dinner and Presentation Evening will be held at The Hand Hotel, Llanarmon DC on Friday, 4 December 2009 , priced at £15 per head. If anyone would like to join us please ring 01691 718772

September 100 Club Draw 2009
No. 41 £15 Wyn Hughes, Glyn Ceiriog
No. 70 £10 Jeff Davies, Glyn Ceiriog
No. 67 £5 Megis Phillips, Chirk

October 100 Club Draw 2009
No. 18 £15 Roy Davies, Trefonen, Oswestry
No. 17 £ Mike Chapman, Tan-Y-Coed, Glyn Ceiriog
No. 23 £5 Arwyn Roberts, Cefn Mawr

M Roberts

The AGM of the Dyffryn Ceiriog Cytun committee took place at the Christian Centre on 17th September. The Rev'd Glyn Jones was re-elected chairman, Miss Einwen Jones was elected minute secretary and Mrs Rona Bates, treasurer. The Rev'd Glyn Jones expressed thanks, on behalf of all present to the Rev'd Dan Parry for his untiring work as secretary over the years and also as treasurer during recent months and also wished him a speedy recovery.
Members then looked back over this year's events and stated that the easter cards, delivered to every household within the Valley, had been much appreciated. It was decided that in future these cards should contain inserts, listing the Churches and Chapels Easter Services. The August Bank Holiday outing to Pennant Melangell had been well attended, representatives from all the Chapels and Churches had taken part in the prayers and readings at various points.
Monthly Prayer meetings have been arranged to take place at the Christian Centre on the third Wednesday of every month, commencing at 7 pm in October then at 2 pm during the winter months from November onwards.
This year's Cytun Carol Service will take place at Llanarmon DC and it is hoped that the school children will be able to take part.
The Service of Prayer for Christian Unity will take place at Seion Glyn Ceiriog on 24 January.

The Ceiriog Valley Garden Society next meet in the Ceiriog Memorial Institute on Monday, 2 November at 7.30 pm . Their guest speaker is Mr Michael Leach, who will talk on The Natural History of Christmas. Come along and learn how some of the Christmas customs came about. Among other things it will be revealed how it may be that reindeer may have come to fly. This talk is open to non-members, entrance fee £2.

Community Beat Manager Pc 1381 Mike Howell is currently in training until mid December, with a view to becoming a 'reserve' in the Mounted Division of North Wales Police.
Pc Ann Batstone is covering the Ceiriog Valley during his absence as your dedicated CBM, many of you have already met Ann and I know she appreciates the warm welcome you have given her.
Police Community support is available from Steve Griffiths PCSO 2883 and myself Chris Cheshire PCSO 2878, we are all based at Chirk Police station and can be contacted through our control room on 0845 607 1002 or by dialling 0845 607 1001 if you prefer to talk to a Welsh speaker.
Our Environmental Audit (EVA) procedure was restructured recently and a full EVA was carried out on 16th Sept by NWP, representatives from appropriate departments in Wrexham Borough Council and your County Councillor Barbra Roberts. A full report was presented to your respective Community Councils at the last meetings, the object being to maintain, protect and develop the Ward for the benefit of all. Your Councillors, my colleagues or indeed myself will be happy to discuss any issues that you care to raise, or listen to any suggestions you may have that will assist in this process. It is hoped for example that funds can be raised to improve the Park in Glyn Ceiriog, new equipment and a safe enclosure for toddlers being a priority. Can I take this opportunity to say that littering, breach of Dog control orders or Anti Social Behaviour (ASB) of any sort will not be tolerated in this or any other area in the Valley.

Council Meetings
N.W. Police will endeavour to attend all your Community Council meetings and starting on 28th October [the last Wednesday of the month] we will be on hand at Glyn Ceiriog at 7pm , half an hour before the Council meeting to meet with the general public to listen to any issues you may have or assist in any way we can. You will no doubt be aware that the area has experienced a slight increase in crime of late. We can only tackle crime and ASB with your co-operation, you are our eyes and ears, please be assured anything you tell us will be in confidence. Our own 'Action Plans' can be viewed on the N. Wales Police website, they are monitored and updated on a regular basis and we welcome feedback.
As winter draws ever closer we are mindful of the elderly and the vulnerable. We have a dedicated operation, where we reach out to this sector of our Community giving advice and reassurance as appropriate. We even have a limited supply of low energy bulbs and timers for security purposes and I am actively seeking nominations for those who would benefit from them. Our colleagues at N. Wales Fire & Rescue are more than happy to conduct home visits to check [and provide in some cases] smoke alarms and give advice in general. Nevertheless, we all have a responsibility to the elderly and vulnerable in the Community, please be mindful of that. Finally, please enjoy your Halloween and Guy Fawkes celebrations, but in a responsible manner with consideration for others. We are available to advise local businesses and householders alike. Information Posters will be made available including posters for the home that indicate whether occupants welcome "trick & treat" callers or otherwise.
Please help us to help you.
Chris Cheshire

Letter from Tom Hanson form the Digital switchover Scheme Communities Work Programme regarding the switchover to digital taking place on the 28–10–2009 . The Communities Work Programme is a Government funded programme created for people eligible to receive help when making the switch to digital television. Those eligible are:
those 75 and over or
get or could get certain disability benefits or have lived in a care Home for six months or more
or are registered blind or partially sighted; The scheme provides all the equipment, information, installation and after care that a person will need for one television set to be switched to digital. There will be a small fee of £40 for the standard offer. However, this service is free if in one of the above groups and are also in receipt of pension credit, Income Support or Income based Job-Seekers allowance. Those not yet prepared for the switchover and meet the above criteria or are not certain whether or not they do, should contact Tom Hanson on 0845 54 99 99.

The September meeting was presided over by the vice-chairman, Cllr Eric Evans.

Police Reports
The meeting commenced with Pc Batstone, acting Community Beat Manager, as Pc Mike Howell is away training with the Reserve Mounted Unit and PcSO Cheshire introducing themselves. PcSO Cheshire will cover the Valley on a part-time basis while a decision is made regarding the possibility of a full time replacement for PcSO Mayo.
Pc Batstone reported that she had received a complaint from the Canolfan Ceiriog Centre Manager regarding vandalism to the recently opened gardens at the rear of the Centre. It was pointed out that this area is the result of many months of hard work by unpaid volunteers. Pc Batstone was of the opinion that the perpetrators, who have been named, should be banned from the area.
The police, in liaison with the Youth Service will be holding an awareness raising session using films to highlight the implications and risk of illicit drug use. The Officers also informed the Council that the suspects in respect of burglaries from farm buildings during the summer have been identified.
The officers were thanked for their attendance and reports.

Environmental Audit
It was reported that an Environmental Audit has taken place recently, which involved the Police, Local Authority, County Councillor and representative of the Residents Association. This audit identifies action required in respect of streets, parks and other areas where the public have access. The skateboard ramp was declared a hazard which attracted antisocial behaviour and litter.
All parties were in agreement that it should be removed.

The clerk reported that she has provisionally booked a visit to the Senedd in Cardiff for 22 October. As the tour is not confined to Councillors and up to fifty people can attend at the same time, the trip is open to wives, partners or friends [average of two persons per Councillor].

The RoSPA Report has been received, this stated that the skateboard ramp posed a high risk in terms of health and safety. Councillors felt, that in view of this and the Environmental Audit report, there was no alternative but to remove it. The ramp will, therefore be dismantled as soon as possible.

Dead Wood
Cllr Eric Jones reported that one of the trees on the Playing Field appears to be deceased, also that the condition of the wall at the rear of the Post Box in Pandy is deteriorating. Both these matters to be dealt with appropriately.

Remembrance Day Service
A letter was received from Mr R. L. Evans, stating that he wishes to retire from his post of arranging the Annual Remembrance Day Service. It was agreed to write to thank him for his hard work and dedication over thirty-two years. Mrs Anne Northwood, secretary of the British Legion, Women's Branch, will be asked if she or the RBL would be prepared to take on this responsibility.

National Eisteddfod of Wales
Following a request from the National Eisteddfod of Wales—Wrexham 2011, Cllr Idris Davies agreed to represent the Council at the first planning meeting to be held in Wrexham.

Listed Building
Correspondence received from resident, Mr Chris Burfitt, stated that because of low usage BT proposes to remove the telephone kiosk from Garth and that although he has ascertained from CADW that this is a listed Grade II building, then Listed Building Consent will have to be obtained from the Planning Authority for it to be demolished. It was noted that it may be possible for someone interested to 'adopt' or 'sponsor' the kiosk.

Information from WCBC Planning department stated the replacement of the Public Telephone kiosk and ATM machine near Cae Hafod, has been approved, as also the Council's preferred alternative site in front of the Public Toilets has been approved and that BT and HSBC have been notified of the Community Council's preferred alternative. It was resolved to request further information regarding the design and dimensions of the proposed kiosk/ATM, as some designs are more acceptable than others.

Planning
Planning permission has also been granted for the following: erection of porch at Laurel Cottage, Garth; new sign to front and side of the Glyn Valley Hotel, and replacement of, and amended siting of five previously licensed static holiday caravans at Pont Bell.

Planning applications were seen for: [a] erection of outbuilding for use as annexe and erection of new garden store at Bronant, Glyn Ceiriog, [b] extensions and alteration to dwelling at Hen Gor, Nantyr.

Payments
Payment of £98.33 to be paid to the National Trust, being the half year rent for the Playing Field was sanctioned.

Correspondance
It was agreed to send a 'get well' card to Mr Bryn Jones, who recently underwent a hip replacement operation. Mr Jones has faithfully kept the Playing Field and Village Centre free of litter for many years.