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BLIZZARDS, DRIFTING SNOW & HEAVY SNOW EXPECTED ...... Top
Affecting Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Carmarthenshire, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Neath Port Talbot, Newport, Pembrokeshire, Powys, Rhondda, Cynon, Taff, Swansea, The Vale Of Glamorgan & Torfaen.
Moderate to heavy snowfall expected in Pembroke and Carmarthenshire this afternoon will spread northeastwards across South Wales and south Powys during the rest of the afternoon and evening. Areas most at risk will be inland hilly areas, where winds gusting 40-50 mph will lead to blizzards and dangerous driving conditions.

PORTH ATTACK ...... Top
Police are appealing for witnesses after a man received serious head and facial injuries after being attacked outside a Rhondda Valley nightclub. The 25-year-old man was assaulted outside the Apollo club in Tynewydd Square, Porth at around 2330 last Saturday.

He is being treated for his injuries at the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant. Anyone with any information is asked to contact South Wales Police at Ton Pentre police station on 01443 434222.

GARDENERS GET READY
Treherbert and District Gardening Society will be staging their 'Spring Show' on Sunday March 28 at Blaenrhondda Social Club. Councillor Layton (Percy) Jones will be presenting the prizes from 3pm.

SOCIETY AWARDED £4,000 ...... Top
Blaenrhondda Community Project have been awarded £4,000 to buy disco equipment. The project hold regular Wednesday night discos at Blaenrhondda Social Club. Members of the project are currently organising a trip to Disneyland Paris in the Summer.

Already, the Council has received complaints from residents in Trehafod, Porth, Treorchy, Clydach Vale and Beddau. The men have been seen going door-to-door, as well as calling out to passers by in the street. The normal sales 'pitch' is that the suites are surplus to requirements at local housing developments, and the suites, that are usually described as leather or Italian leather, have been offered for sale for between £300 and £480.

"We believe the suites are likely to be made of PVC and not leather," said Councillor Adrian Hobson, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council's Cabinet Member for Environmental Improvement. "Similar suites in other parts of the country have been found to be highly flammable. Thankfully, so far, complainants have been suspicious of the seller's claims and have not purchased the goods offered. However, we're concerned that some people will have been taken in by these claims, and consider it to be very likely that some people have actually bought items from these sellers. We're urging any members of the public who might have bought one of these suites, or been approached by the sellers, to immediately contact our officers. We're also working closely with the local Police in a bid to combat these Traders."

Always be vary of people selling goods door to door or from vans and consider how you would be able to contact the seller in the event of any problem with the goods. If you are approached by men in a van seeking to sell any goods, then do take details of the vehicle description and registration number, as well as descriptions of the sellers concerned, then contact Trading Standards.

For further information contact Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Trading Standards on 01443 442100.

Magistrates heard that in February 2003, trading standards officers from Rhondda Cynon Taf Council had carried out a routine inspection of the Crown Hotel. The officer carried out screening tests on a bottle of Smirnoff Vodka that was for sale behind the bar. As the test gave them some cause for concern the officers purchased a formal sample of vodka for further testing.

The sample was submitted for analysis by the Public Analyst, who reported that the sample was not genuine UK produced Smirnoff Vodka, and that the sample was deficient by an amount equivalent to 5.5% added water against its stated alcohol content of 37.5%.

Mr Tony Hughes, prosecuting on behalf of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, stated that when she was interviewed, Ham said that on Christmas Day the pub had run out of Smirnoff. As they could not get to a shop to purchase another bottle of Smirnoff, her partner had topped up the Smirnoff bottle using a bottle of another brand of Vodka from Ham's home. However, she explained that the vodka in this bottle was 37.5% alcohol, so she had no explanation why the vodka was understrength. Ham said that she was a bit "green" over these matters, as she was only acting as the assistant manager for a trial period.

The Magistrate gave Ham credit for the early guilty plea, and the co-operation with the prosecution, but nevertheless considered it to be a serious offence. The case was heard at Rhondda Magistrates Court on 16th January 2004.

LOCAL SOLIDER CALLED TO BASRA ...... Top
All the best to Conrad Steven Collinson who is preparing to fly out to Basra to spend three months. Conrad, 17, from Mount Libanus has just completed a sixth months training with the Royal Regiment of Wales at Catterick in North Yorkshire.

BUTE STREET ROAD ACCIDENT ...... Top
On Monday evening (Feb 16) at 8:05pm firefighters attended a road traffic accident near 'The Village Inn' (previously The Marquis of Bute) Public House on Bute Street Treherbert. The accident involved four vehicles and one male casualty was taken to hospital by ambulance.

HIT-AND-RUN CAR FOUND IN TREHERBERT ...... Top
A man has been arrested in connection with an hit-and-run incident which has left a 13-year-old girl fighting for her life.

The man is being questioned after Rachel Jones was struck by the car on the Aberdare bypass on Saturday, when she was returning home with friends. She underwent emergency surgery at Cardiff's University Hospital of Wales, but remains in a critical condition with her parents at her hospital bedside.

Forensic experts are examining a Vauxhall Carlton which was found in the Treherbert area of the Rhondda. The incident took place on the A4059 between Trecynon and Penywaun at Aberdare.

Inspector Andrew Germain, who is leading the investigation, said Rachel was with three friends crossing the carriageway at around 2030 GMT when she was struck. An incident room has been set up at Trecynon Police Station - with 16 officers working on the investigation. Family liaison specialists are with Rachel's parents at hospital.

Anyone with information should contact police on 01685 872456 or call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.

PENYRENGLYN ROAD SCHEME ...... Top
Treherbert's Plaid Cymru Councillors, Layton Jones (Percy) and Geraint Davies, have welcomed the news that Penyrenglyn and Ynyswen are to benefit from a new flagship "safe routes to school" project.

Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has successfully bid for £95,000 of funding for the project, which will go ahead in 2004/5.

The project will provide a 20 mph speed limit zone around Penyrenglyn Primary, Ynyswen Infants and Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Ynyswen. One-way streets and speed bumps will also be installed. The project will now go to public consultation.

Commenting on the news, Councillor Geraint Davies said: "I know that the schools concerned and residents have been campaigning for this project for some time. The bid for funding was well thought out and successfully beat off competition from other boroughs. I am delighted that we have now had the go ahead. This project will compliment the marvellous new Penyrenglyn school that opened last year."

Councillor Layton (Percy) Jones said: "Safe routes to school projects are of great benefit to school pupils. They will now be able to walk or cycle to school in safety. This will mean less traffic for the school run, less road accidents, a cleaner environment, and fitter, happier children."

GRAIG-Y-DDELW ROAD WIDENING ...... Top
Plaid Cymru Councillors, Layton Jones (Percy) and Geraint Davies, have met residents of Graig y Ddelw, Blaencwm, to discuss plans to widen the roadway, improve parking and allow better access for emergency vehicles.

Commenting on the proposals Councillor Layton (Percy) Jones said: “Council officers have now prepared plans for the road widening. The scheme will allow residents to park without blocking the road and most importantly will allow clear access for wide emergency vehicles. It is likely that the road will be made one way. The proposals will now be submitted to the Cabinet’s Capital Working Group for financial approval.”

Councillor Geraint Davies said: “We have been campaigning for this improvement for over 18 years and I am very pleased that we are now seeing real progress. I would like to thank the residents of Graig y Ddelw for supporting the campaign to widen and upgrade the road.”

BBC RADIO WALES WANTS YOUR HELP...... Top
Have you always wanted to get into radio but haven't got any experience? BBC Radio Wales will be in Treorchy from February 23 and are looking for help. If you would ike to help the BBC during their stay in the area then you can call Willa King on 029-20322-864.

UFO OVER TREHERBERT ...... Top
Mrs Josie Davies of Treherbert has reported seeing flashing lights in the Treherbert night sky on August 12. "I went into the conservatory and looked up at the sky and saw a red and green light flashing. I opened the door and got some binoculars. I looked up and it was just a static red and green light flashing. I have seen red light on a plane but this was still in the sky. I am not a great believer, but I thought to myself, this is a spaceship. It definitely was not a plane or a helicopter because it was static. When I went back the following night, there was nothing."
Editor: If you have seen any strange object(s) or people in the locality then let us know.

GERAINT DAVIES LOSES SEAT AFTER 21 YEARS ...... Top

After 21 years serving the community of Treherbert and district Geraint Davies has lost his seat.

Geraint Davies was born and bred in Treherbert, Geraint Davies has been a local member of the Rhondda Cynon Taff authority for many many years. He was also appointed the first Assembly Member for Rhondda at the National Assembly for Wales in Cardiff. He is also a local community pharmacist in Tynewydd and Treherbert.

Educated at Pentre Grammar School, Geraint furthered his studies at Chelsea College, University of London. After graduating, he returned to the Rhondda to find that his school friends were forced to leave the valley to find work. Geraint joined Plaid Cymru, a party with a clear economic vision to find work for young people in their communities.

He has been a County and District Councillor since 1983 and thoroughly enjoys representing his Ward. His special interests include health, housing, and economic development within the Valleys. Geraint is also a keen member of Rhondda Tennis Club and also enjoys listening to music and playing the piano.

To contact Councillor Morgan and Councillor Williams during their term in office you can contact them via:

Councillor Kevin Morgan, 10 Upper Taff Street, Treherbert. Tel: Treherbert 771367.
Councillor Jeff Williams, The Baglan Hotel, Treherbert. Tel: Treherbert 776111.

TREHERBERT COUNCILLOR KEVIN MORGAN ...... Top
Kevin Morgan has 13 years past experience as a Rhondda Borough Councillor and says that he knows what "worries and complaints local people have. Labour has learned from its 1999 defeat and we will be offering the voters of the Treherbert Ward a refreshing, imaginative and attractive set of policies that will be realistic, well-costed and sustainable."

Mr Morgan is a member of the GMB trade union and has an MSc Degree in Public Sector Management. Currently living in Upper Taff Street (Treherbert) with his wife Merriel and two sons.

TREHERBERT COUNCILLOR JEFF WILLIAMS ...... Top
For Jeff Williams or as he's better known 'Jeff the Baglan', this is his first steps in politics. Having lived and worked in Treherbert Mr Williams feels "honoured to have been selected by Treherbert Labour Party and now the people of Treherbert as one of their two candidates. I am keen to make a positive contribution to improving the community in which we live".

Mr Williams lives with his wife Stephanie in Mount Libanus Street (Treherbert).

NEW TOTW LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE LAUNCHED THIS 'WEEKEND' ...... Top
Commening from this Friday evening we will be producing a new lifestyle magazine entitled 'Weekend'. The magazine will be updated every Friday evening and brings you the latest information regarding the arts, books, events, food, gardening, radio and lifestyle feature. To access this new magazine you need only click on the 'Weekend' button that will be located where the 'Election '04' button currently stands. 'Weekend' - Getting the best out of your weekend.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service is warning of the dangers of storing rags soaked in linseed oil at home, following two incidents in the Cyncoed area of Cardiff over the past week.

Firefighters from Roath were called to Holly Bush Road on 30th May and Cefn Coed Road on 7th June to extinguish fires that had started in the garages of two domestic properties. On arrival at the two incidents, crews discovered that the fires had been caused by the spontaneous combustion of rags, which had been soaked in linseed oil.

Although not classed as a flammable liquid, linseed oil - which is often used to treat wooden garden furniture - when left to soak on rags in warm conditions, can eventually ignite. After self-combusting, the linseed oil burns to give off a dense acrid smoke, which if not brought under control quickly, could have serious consequences.

Station Officer Ritchie O’Connell, Roath Fire Station, said: “Fires caused by linseed oil are a common occurrence at this time of year, when the weather is getting warmer and people have been painting and varnishing outdoors. Fortunately, the Fire Service was quickly called in to extinguish the two fires in Cyncoed, and prevent them from spreading to the houses which adjoined the garages. We are advising people to wash any cloths or rags used to apply linseed oil immediately in warm soapy water, even if they plan to throw them away after use. Even after washing, the rags must never be crumpled into a ball, but spread out and disposed of sensibly. Rags which are kept should be stored inn a cool, dry and ventilated area, away from other combustibles.”

Rhondda Cynon Taff will hold its first ever food festival later this year, to showcase the excellence of local producers and manufacturers. Saturday July 4th and Sunday July 5th will see the start of the largest ever celebration of food and drink in Rhondda Cynon Taff. More than 30 exhibitors are scheduled to descend on Ynysangharad Park, Pontypridd, over the two days, providing locals with information and demonstrations on quality local food.

”We have a superb range of produce from across Rhondda Cynon Taff including Welsh dairy products, meat and meat products, fruit and vegetables,” said Nigel Griffiths, Rhondda Cynon Taff Council’s Food Enforcement Officer. ”Our festival features top-quality food and drink from more than 30 small producers and suppliers from the local area - plus an amazing range of events that will enable you to rediscover real food and drink that is at the heart of the Welsh food industry. Above all, the festival will be great fun, with a wonderful friendly atmosphere that appeals to everyone, whether gourmet, sausage fan or real ale connoisseur.”

FIRST MINISTER VISITS TREHERBERT ...... Top
First Minister Rhodri Morgan recently visited Treherbert to lend his support to the local Labour party candidates in the forthcoming election. The local candidates for the Labour party are Jeff Williams (left) and Kevin Morgan (right).

WRITER DIES ...... Top

Alun Richards, writer and friend of Treherbert novelist Ron Berry, has died at the age of 74. A regular visit to Treherbert Mr Richards was last in the area a few weeks ago. On May 8 Mr Richards unveiled a plaque to the life and work of Ron Berry in Blaencwm.

Originally from Pontypridd he used his experiences in jobs as varied as sailor and probation officer to colour his writing. He was best-known for writing the hit 1970s TV series 'The Onedin Line'. He also wrote for radio, a series of novels and plays, and about the glory years of Welsh rugby. His novels including 'The Elephant You Gave Me' (1963) and 'The Home Patch' (1966).

His friend Professor Dai Smith, pro vice-chancellor of the University of Glamorgan, Pontypridd, described him as an incredibly industrious writer who "mined a deep seam. He was the supreme analyst and fictional chronicler of post-war south Wales. He turned his attention to that Wales which was moving away from mining and steel. He turned a very scathing eye on what he regarded as the nouveau riche within Welsh life: those who he felt were usurping the positions that a more significant and more democratic society had taken. He resented that bitterly and was a scathing denouncer of it."

Treherbert based television production company, SJC Productions, are currently in the middle of producing a television programme about the life and work of Ron Berry. Producer Sean James Cameron, said: "Mr Richards had been helping us on our Ron Berry programme and was an invaluable contributor and supporter of our programme. I last met him in May when he was in Blaencwm at a Ron Berry event. He was a warm passionate gentleman and will be sadly missed."

MAIN LIBRARY TO RE-OPEN ...... Top
Treorchy Library has now re-opened for customers. The library has taken on a new look as a 'One 4 all' centre concept. The library and reference department closed earlier this year when workmen had "identified the presence of asbestos" while making improvements.

NEW NEWSLETTER AND 'NEWSFLASH' SERVICE ...... Top
From June 1 we will be adding two new free services for TOTW readers. Get a regular newsletter (every Sunday evening) straight to your inbox and/or if you have an '@hotmail' account then you can receive News Headlines as soon as the news is breaking. For the newsletter forward your email with 'Newsletter' submitted in the subject box to contact@treherbert.info. For the News Headlines simply add 'treherbertontheweb@hotmail.com' to your 'MSN Messenger' service via 'Add a Contact'. Both free services begin on June 1.

Successful applicants will offer open access holiday play schemes for children and young people aged 5 – 14 years. Applications are particularly welcome from organisations offering play opportunities targeting young people aged 11 – 14 years.Applicants should demonstrate the ability to provide challenging and innovative play opportunities to meet the needs of the varying ages and abilities of participating children. Applications must be received by Friday, 12 June 2004

For an application pack contact Sue Robinson, Rhondda Cynon Taf Community Connect, Valleys Innovation Centre, Navigation Park, Abercynon or on 01443 665000

For further information contact: Chris Southern, Play Development Officer, Rhondda Cynon Taf on 01443-424-419.

KINNOCK VISITS TYNEWYDD ...... Top
Treherbert Labour Party welcomed a visit from MEP Glenys Kinnock when she recently visited the local party and gave her support to the local Labour election candidates, Jeff Williams and Kevin Morgan.

QUIZ THE ELECTION CANDIDATES ...... Top
Recently we asked you to submit questions that you wanted to put to the local election candidates. We received a huge responce. We have pick a selection of them and have sent them to the candidates. Their answers will be displayed from Tuesday June 1. Thank you your questions. View your questions.

Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council has set aside £250,000 to develop skate parks across the County Borough over the next twelve months. A number of potential sites for the development of skateboarding facilities have been earmarked and feasibility studies on these sites will soon be underway.

The Council has listened to the views of young people and the wider community during recent public consultations, based on the Community Plan. A wide range of issues was discussed, including the provision of improved leisure and sport facilities for young people. Rhondda Cynon Taff will also collaborate with local Community Councils in some areas to develop youth services.

“Our investment in this area recognises the growing interest in Rhondda Cynon Taf in skateboarding as a legitimate sport,” says Gareth Newton, Divisional Director of Lifelong Learning. “It is also evidence of the Council's commitment to improving services for young people, a key message from the recent consultation exercises in support of the Community Plan. W e will continue to involve local young people in the design and location of the skate parks.”

TREHERBERT BRITISH LEGION ...... Top
The 60th Annual Parade will set off from the Conservative Club in Treherbert at 10:10am on Saturday June 5. The march will commence at 11am and will follow a route down Bute Street, Baglan Street and down to Abercorky where Treorchy residents will join the parade. The march will continue down to the Co-Operative Stores car park just off Station Street, Treorchy. A 'Service of Remembrance' will be held in the car park. Everyone is welcome to join the parade.

PIGEON RESULS FLY IN ...... Top
Treherbert Homing Society last Saturday made a trip to Newbury. The first birds back home were: 1st Stanton Brothers & Evans; 2nd G Warren; 3rd Stanton Brothers & Evans.

BLAENRHONDDA COACH ...... Top
Have you always wanted to be a coach, then this could be your chance. Blaenrhondda's Youth League team are looking for a new coach who is available to coach the under-17s. Fixtures are on Sunday and training is once a week. If you are interested then contact Steve Rumble on 01443-730-141.

WOMEN'S INSTITUTE 2004 GYMANFA GANU ...... Top
The Glamorgan Federation of Women’s Institutes will be staging 'Gymanfa Ganu 2004'. The event is being held at Bethlehem Chapel in Treorchy, commencing 7pm, on June 15 (Tuesday). Mrs Valerie Martin of Treherbert Womens Institute will be joining Mrs Margaret Powell of Sully Womens Institute. Miss Sioned Dutfield will be the accompanist for the evening. The event cost £2 and tickets can be bought on the door of the evening. Special guests are Treorchy Comprehensive School Choir.

COMMUNITY SAFETY BY CWMNI ...... Top
There will be a meeting on Thursday May 27 at 156 Bute Street Treherbert at 5pm, to discuss community safety.

RHONDDA CYNON TAFF BUILDINGS SET FOR REFURBISHMENT ...... Top
Rhondda Cynon Taff County Borough Council has announced plans to invest almost £2million over the next 12 months on the modernisation and refurbishment of school buildings throughout the County Borough.

Staff and pupils will benefit from the programme of investment – due to begin in June – which will include replacement windows, kitchen refurbishments and new electrical rewiring systems. Fire alarms are to be upgraded and other improvements will ensure that school buildings across Rhondda Cynon Taf fully comply with health & safety, disability access and Care Standards legislation.

As well as 45 schools, a series of refurbishments and upgrading is also planned for a selection of libraries, children’s residential homes, a youth centre and an arts venue. “The identified schemes will enhance the living, working and learning environments of local people. They will have a positive impact for local communities, from looked-after children and young people to pupils and staff at our schools to users of the library service,” says Garry Kiss, Head of Development and Planning, Rhondda Cynon Taff.

CANDIDATE QUESTIONS ...... Top
Over the coming weeks in the run up to the local election we will be contacting the candidates to hear their views. What do you want to ask them? This is your opportunity to ask whatever you want. Send your questions to us at Trehebert on the Web and we'll put your question forward. State 'QT' in the subject box of your email and forward to TOTW.

COUNCILLOR SPONSORS TREHERBERT RFC ...... Top
Local Councillor Layton (Percy) Jones has written to Treherbert Rugby Club to congratulate them in their recent promotion. Cllr Jones, a supporter of Treherbert RFC, said "I was privileged to be one of the sponsors of the last game of the season to Gilfach. This is not only great news for the club, but it is great for the wider Treherbert."

HOAX CALLERS COST £500,000 ...... Top
Hoax callers are costing taxpayers almost £500,000 a year and putting people's lives in danger, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service has revealed today. To mark the beginning of BT's Hoax Calls Awareness Week 2004, which aims to highlight the consequences of making malicious 999 calls, the Brigade has announced that an alarming 1112 hoax calls were made during the last financial year (April 03 -March 04). Malicious callers are not only an enormous drain on resources but their reckless behaviour endangers the lives and safety of the public. If fire crews are responding to a hoax, they may be delayed in responding to a genuine emergency incident.

Chief Fire Officer Brian Fraser, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: "We want to send out a clear message that hoax and malicious calls will not be tolerated. At best, these false calls cost the tax payer almost £500,000 - at worse they could cost someone's life. If fire crews are sent to a hoax call, it means that they are not available when someone really needs their help, whether in a fire or a road traffic accident. It is in everyone's interest to try to put an end to these calls."

Rigorous procedures are in place to track down hoax callers, which have already proved successful. The calls can be traced instantly and the caller's voice can be recorded. This doesn't just apply to landlines and phone boxes; mobile phones can also be disconnected as a result of time wasting calls. South Wales Fire and Rescue Service continues to work closely with the Police to ensure that hoax callers are accountable for their actions. If convicted, hoax callers run the risk of a hefty fine or a lengthy prison sentence. The Service is also working with other partner organisations to raise awareness of the implications and consequences of making malicious calls to 999 among young people.

ADOPT A RAILWAY STATION ...... Top
Arriva Trains Wales have launched an 'Adopt a Station Initiative' to help improve links with local communities and customers living near unstaffed railway stations. The project is aimed at improving the unstaffed stations and encouraging regular feedback about the station buildings and facilities to help ensure they meet the high standards expected by their customers. They are currently seeking volunteers who are interested in the welfare of their local train station and would like to take an active role in keeping them up to date about any issues at the adopted stations.

Volunteers are referred to as 'station adopters' and report on matters such as litter, graffiti, vandalism, lighting, other equipment, and information posters. Adoption involves no financial commitments on behalf of the adopter. The only criteria is that adopters are willing to fill in regular survey forms to help keep them informed of how well the station facilities are meeting the customers' needs. Other adoption activity could include enhancing the appearance of the stations such as giving attention to flower displays, etc. In return station adopters will receive £60 of complimentary travel vouchers to use on any part of the National Rail Network. Contact Arriva Trains Wales, Telephone: 0845 6061 660. Email: customer.services@arrivatrainswales.co.uk

WERE YOU IN THE 'HOME GUARD' FOR TREHERBERT & DISTRICT? ...... Top

Were you, or do you know anyone who served in the 'Home Guard' covering Blaencwm, Blaenrhondda, Tynewydd, Treherbert and Penyrenglyn.

A new exhibition is being planned by the 'Treherbert History Society'. Do you have any photographs or cine films of the Home Guard and their activities in the area. What do you remember of the local Home Guard. Do you have any funny stories of the local Home Guard.

The exhibition will tell the story of the local Home Guard and their activities during the Second World War. It will both celebrate and commemorate those local residents during those difficult times.

Treherbert History Society would like to hear your story and use your photographs and/or cine films in this new exhibition.
E-Mail the Treherbert History Society.

SOUTH WALES POLICE FIRST RESPONDER SCHEME LAUNCHED ...... Top
The Welsh Ambulance Service has officially launched its latest First Responder scheme. More than 80 traffic officers from across the force area have recently qualified as First Responders - a scheme which enables members of the community to learn the skills necessary to begin life-saving treatment before an ambulance arrives. The training, which is delivered by the Welsh Ambulance Service, includes basic life saving skills, the recognition of cardiac conditions, cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of a defibrillator.
The earlier someone suffering a heart attack receives defibrillation, the greater the chance of survival and thanks to the British Heart Foundation, automated external defibrillator (AED) units have been placed in traffic cars across the force. Now South Wales Police will be patrolling and responding to incidents across the force areas carrying life-saving equipment.

Welsh Ambulance Services First Responder Officer Paul Wilkins said, “Every second counts when you are trying to save someone’s life and First Responder Schemes are hugely beneficial in assisting the ambulance service to provide the best possible pre-hospital care for patients. The commitment and enthusiasm shown by South Wales Police has been exceptional and we are all looking forward to beginning the scheme.”

The schemes are a valuable additional resource and do not in any way replace existing emergency ambulance services. South Wales Police Superintendent Pat Tucker said, “A defibrillator is the only device we have that actually re-start a person’s heart as CPR only buys us extra time while we wait for an ambulance to arrive, Seconds count when we are dealing with victims of heart attacks and the more units we have on the streets means we are increasing people’s chance of survival.”

British Heart Foundation Director in Wales David Napier said, “It is vital that people suffering cardiac arrest receive treatment as soon as possible and this investment in defibrillators by South Wales Police could make the difference between life and death. “

First Responders have been a vital part of Welsh ambulance service delivery since 1998 and continue to play an important role in its pre-hospital environment. There are currently 61 schemes in Wales – 25 in South Wales including Treherbert, Kingsway Shopping Centre Newport, Usk, Monmouth, Aberfan, Cardiff Wales Airport and seven leisure centres in Rhondda Cynon Taff.

BT INCREASE PAY PHONE COSTS ...... Top
The cost to use a pay phone has increased from 20p to 30p. The price change has been introduced across the UK. The minimum fee will increase from 20p to 30p. At the moment 30p buys a local or national call of up to two minutes 45 seconds. In the future 30p will buy 15 minutes; this would currently cost £1.70. Paul Hendron, director of BT Payphones, said: "The reaction to the trial has been fantastic - with people welcoming the fact that they can make longer calls for their money. We think that this offers great value and independent research in the trial area has shown 78 per cent of our customers agree. We want them to vote with their feet and get back into phone boxes to take advantage of the extra value."To meet the increasing demand for more sophisticated services, BT has transformed more than 1,500 payphones into Internet Kiosks, opening up public access to the internet, e-mail, text messaging and even video and picture e-mail. Many phone boxes are being adapted to include new services. A new style of phone box is hitting UK high streets, fitted with a cash machine and a payphone.BT Openzone Wi-Fi access points are being installed in broadband enabled payphones to bring wireless broadband to the streets. Subscribers can connect to the internet or their office intranet using a Wi-Fi enabled laptop or PDA.The 30p minimum fee will apply to all cash payphone calls. For local and national cash calls at any time, customers will receive 15 minutes for the minimum fee of 30p, equivalent to 2p per minute. After the 30p minimum fee has been used up callers will get an additional seven and a half minutes for each 10p.

YOUR CHANCE TO BLOW-UP FAMOUS LANDMARK ...... Top
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is offering the public the chance to demolish the flats at Hirwaun, and raise money for charity at the same time. With the demolition of the Towers and Beacons Flats at Hirwaun fast approaching, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is looking for a winner to ‘Push the Plunger’.

Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has linked up with Macmillan Cancer Relief, with people being given the opportunity to make a donation to the charity and offer their details for a prize draw. The prize draw winner will have the one-in-a-lifetime chance to bring down the flats, at the special event on May 30th.

“All the money raised will be put towards the Macmillan fund to raise money for a new Cancer Care Day Unit at the Prince Charles Hospital. This is a great cause, and we hope that bringing down one landmark will help to create another much needed one for the residents of the local area.“ said Sue Gilby, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Head of Community Housing.

Liz Cole, Fundraising Manager for Macmillan Cancer Relief Wales, commented: “As one in four of us will have a cancer diagnosis at some point in our lives the work of Macmillan becomes even more vital. The new unit at Prince Charles Hospital, which will serve the North Glamorgan Trust area, will be a huge boost for people living with cancer and their families. Having the Unit there will mean patients can have on site treatments, taking away the need to travel to Velindre Hospital in Cardiff. The Appeal for £750,000 for the unit is progressing really well thanks to the wonderful generosity and kindness of local people. Every donation is an investment in the new unit and the future of cancer care services in the area."

All entries to the prize draw should be received by Monday 24th May, when the draw will take place and the winner notified. For the chance to ‘Push the Plunger’, please fill out the coupon in the local newspaper (where applicable), or provide information and a donation by letter. A minimum donation of £1 should be included to enter the prize draw. Information and donations should be sent to: Marketing and Events, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, Unit D, The Pavilions, Cambrian Park, Clydach Vale, CF40 2XX.

Alternatively, residents can fill out a form and make a donation at one of the Council’s new one4all customer service centers, based at Rock Grounds, Aberdare, and Sardis House, Pontypridd. Cheques and Postal Orders should be made payable to: Macmillan Cancer Relief. To enter the prize draw the following information should be provided: Name, Address, Contact Telephone Number.

The demolition of the flats at Hirwaun will take place on Sunday 30th May, which is spring bank holiday. The flats are scheduled to be demolished at 12pm (this is subject to change).

ADULT LEARNERS ...... Top
Learners across Rhondda Cynon Taf will have the perfect opportunity to sign up for a course and pick up a new skill during Adult Learner’s Week this week.

Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council and Bro Dysg – the local ‘Learning for Growth’ partnership - have organised a series of taster sessions in a wide variety of topics across the County Borough. Many of these activities are completely free of charge.

‘Learning through the medium of Welsh’ is a series of workshops on art, folk singing, local history and cookery taking place at Ty Catrin in Pontypridd throughout the week (01443 402867 for more details)

On Friday 21 May, a series of ‘Interactive Drama Workshops’ is taking place at Maerdy Community Centre. Organised by Rhondda Cynon Taf, these workshops will cover improvisation, trust and confidence-building techniques and drama games, culminating in the devising and performing of ‘play-lets.’ Creche facilities are available upon request (01443 744097 for more details)

Coleg Morgannwg is holding a series of informative open days, a chance for local people to visit the Rhondda campus and have a chat with friendly, helpful staff about any courses they wish to attend (01443 662800 for more details)

“Bro Dysg can help anyone in the community who would like to learn a new skill and what better time to ‘go for it’ than during Adult Learner’s Week?” says Julia Paradine, Bro Dysg officer. “Bro Dysg aims to enable local people to learn new skills in a wide variety of ways, regardless of where they live or how old they are. The Bro Dysg partnership works to provide high standards of education for all learners, as well as helping the local workforce gain the skills they need to take advantage of new employment opportunities.”

For more Adult Learner Week events, please visit the NIACE Dysgu Cymru web site or telephone Learndirect on 0800-100-900. Adult Learners’ Week is organised by NIACE Dysgu Cymru, with support from ELWa and the European Social Fund (ESF)

TOTW VIDEO ...... Top
Over the next few weeks we will be carrying out tests on our new video service that will be launched in the Autumn. New videos will be displayed within a story and at the 'Audio & Video' section (above). We are interested to hear your feedback about this service and any problems you may encounter. At present all video can be played on Windows Media Player. This month we have footage of Penyrenglyn Junior School being demolished. As this service is improved we will be screening videos up to five minutes in length. If you live away from the area and would like to see any aspect of Treherbert and district or an events then please drop us a line here at TOTW and we'll do our best to cover the event for you.

DERELECT BUILDINGS GET THE CWMNI TOUCH ...... Top
Cwmni are currently in the process of displaying local countryside images on derelict buildings. Their first set of images can be seen on the 'Arkwrights' store in Tynewydd.

Cwmni Community Business Development officer David Brooks said: "Local response to the idea has been very positive with a number of businesses and residents saying how pleased they are that someone is showing an interest in the appearance of these buildings and are doing something to make the area brighter. We believe the boards will not only improve the way the area looks but will show visitors that there are beautiful waterfalls nearby with stunning areas for walking around the unique flat-top mountain of Pen Pych".

The next building to get the Cwmni treatment is the 'Blacksmiths Arms' on Baglan Street in Penyrenglyn which has been empty for over ten years. To get a sneak preview of these new pictures, click here.

RON BERRY ...... Top
Last Saturday, May 8, approximately one hundred people turned up to a plaque unveiling ceremony at Michaels Road in Blaencwm. The plaque is displayed on the house where Rhondda and Treherbert author Ron Berry lived. Further information about Mr Berry and his work is now available on-line.

TREHERBERT RUGBY WIN ...... Top
Division Three South East Title: Treherbert 26 v 7 Brecon. Treherbert rugby are currently leading with 58 points from 23 matches, they have won 19 games and lost 3 with one draw. Their next match will be played on Friday May 7 at Tynewydd Park against Gilfach Goch, kick off at 7:30pm.

WELL DONE RHYS ...... Top
Rhys Pugh, 12, of Blaenrhondda recently won the Under 17's Bowls Championship that was held at the Non-Political Club in Tonyrefail. Rhys was presented with a trophy and shield by President Phil Dortinton.

PLAID CYMRU COUNCILLORS IN POLICE TALKS ...... Top
Treherbert’s Plaid Cymru Councillors, Layton 'Percy' Jones and Geraint Davies, will meet with Chief Inspector Dando of South Wales Police today (May 5), to call for more patrols in the ward. The councillors are responding to residents’ concerns about unruly behaviour. They want more patrols by either the Police or Community Support Officers to deal with the problem.

Community Support Officers were introduced to the county borough last year and have proved very popular. Plaid Cymru led Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is committed to increasing the number of Community Support Officers.

BRYANT WELCOMES CRACKDOWN ON FIREWORKS ...... Top
Chris Bryant, Labour MP for the Rhondda today welcomed new proposals set out by Consumer Minister, Gerry Sutcliffe MP, calling for Hooligans who set off noisy fireworks through the night to face serious penalties. The proposals would crack down on the anti-social use of fireworks and be in place for this year's firework season.

They include: a national curfew banning the use of fireworks between 11pm and 7am; a noise limit of 120 decibels for category 3 fireworks, the largest and most powerful fireworks available to the public; a new licensing system for retailers that sell fireworks all year round starting in January 2005; and a requirement that importers prove any imports are destined for legal storage and distribution. There will be a few nights during the year when the curfew will run from 2am until 7am, New Years Eve, 5 November, Diwali Night and Chinese New Year.

Chris says: "For the majority fireworks can be fun but when they get into the hands of irresponsible hooligans they cause a real disturbance in local communities. These proposals tighten up the laws governing the importation, sale and use of fireworks, cracking down on the excess noise and nuisance that often keeps people awake at night and causes misery to pets and other animals."

It is planned that the Police, Trading Standards, Local Authorities and HM Customs and Excise will enforce the new regulations. People who break the curfew could receive a fine of up to £5000 or six months in imprisonment.The Home Office is currently looking at the enforcement powers of the Police in relation to fireworks offences. The consultation will from Friday 23 April until Friday 2 July. The proposals are the latest in a number of Regulations brought forward to change the regulatory framework covering the supply and use of Fireworks in Great Britain (excluding Northern Ireland). Retailers who sell fireworks all year round will in future need to apply for a licence from their local authority. Other retailers are limited in the periods when they can sell fireworks.

Editor: What do you think of this crackdown, air your views in 'Your Say'.

NEW DAY FOR RHONDDA RESIDENTS ...... Top
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is increasing access to its Community Day Centres for local people, providing more services for residents across the County Borough.

Rhondda Cynon Taf have lowered the minimum age of people who can use its Day Centres from 60 to 50, providing a consistent approach to access for all. Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Community Care Division operates 19 Community Day Centres across the County Borough, which offers subsidised meals for users. The Day Centre’s also provided facilities for private community groups including indoor bowls and choirs. “In recent years, we’ve tried to ensure that as many services as possible are available to as many people as possible,” said Councillor Pauline Jarman, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Leader. “Our Day Centres provide an important opportunity for older people to meet new people and take part in social activities and enhance their quality of life through stimulation and companionship.
“We’ve now ensured that there’s a consistent approach across Rhondda Cynon Taf to access criteria.”

For further information on Rhondda Cynon Taf’s day centres contact: 01685 883352 – Cynon Valley; 01443 430625 - Rhondda; 01443 671403 - Taff Ely.

BLAENCWM ...... Top
In a recent study by Cwmni it has emerged that BLAENCWM is the place to live. Results from the survey show that Blaencwm residents believered that they have an 'excellent community'; they are content with the peaceful atmosphere of the Blaencwm area; over half of the residents belong to a community group; residents believe that Blaencwm crime to be "very low" and felt "least likely to have been a victim of crime"; residents were also "most complimentary" about the bus service and residents feel safe to walk the streets at night. So it would appear the stunning countryside around Blaencwm and the closeness of its community are a winning combinations for its residents. The advice for anyone thinking of buying a property certainly seems to be 'head for Blaencwm'.

BRYANT CALLS FOR CRACKDOWN ON IRRESPONSIBLE PUB LANDLORDS ...... Top
Chris Bryant, Labour MP for the Rhondda, has urged the Government to ensure that the Police and Licensing Authorities use their full powers in cracking down on irresponsible marketing practices by pub and club landlords. In a Question to Richard Caborn MP, the Sports and Tourism Minister, Chris asked whether the Minister felt that the relevant authorities will use their powers robustly enough to deal with this problem. Chris says: "Many pubs and clubs offer promotions where customers can drink as much as possible for a fixed fee. Effectively they are encouraging people to drink until they get drunk - and more than drunk. I'm no kill-joy and I enjoy a drink myself, but irresponsible marketing that encourages binge-drinking and leads to loutish rowdy behaviour in our town and village centres is not on. The law says that a landlord is not allowed to serve someone who is drunk - and I hope that the Licensing Authorities and the Police will use the powers available to them to deal effectively with irresponsible landlords. We all end up picking up the pieces in terms of violence and damage to property, neighbourhood nuisance and the long-term effects of alcoholism."

NEW GOAL FOR THE NEW INN ...... Top
New Inn AFC won the Agnes John Sunday League beating Railway Inn AFC 2 - 1. The game was 0 - 0 half time. First goal was scored by Dai Pritchard. Railway Inn scored the second goal and substitute Dean Grandfield scored the second goal for New Inn ending with a 2 - 1 victory. The New Inn team have only been going for 3 seasons and each time they have been in the finals. Losing first year to Maerdy AFC, winning last year against Trealaw AFC. A special recognition goes to Billy Pritchard manager/player who has been an inspiration to all the team.

TREHERBERT PARKS IMPROVEMENTS CONFIRMED ...... Top
Treherbert Plaid Cymru Councillors, Geraint Davies and Layton Jones have received written confirmation that a series of improvements to Treherbert’s parks will definitely go ahead. They are delighted to be able to report that Tynewydd Park, Baglan Field, Treherbert Park Pavilion and Blaenrhondda Park will all benefit from the new investment. The public toilets at Tynewydd Park will be refurbished and will be opened when there is a member of staff on site and when rugby fixtures are being played. The park will also get new playground equipment, new seats, a new litterbin, new railings, new windows in the sports pavilion and dog fouling bins. Baglan Field will get three new seats. Treherbert Park Pavilion will get new lighting, a new floor covering in the changing rooms and dog fouling bins. Blaenrhondda Park will get new dog fouling bins. The improvements follow extensive consultation with the Tynewydd Forum, the rugby club and residents.

Commenting on the investment, Councillor Davies said: “It is always a pleasure to be able to announce a project like this. Plaid Cymru is fulfilling its promise to residents to improve recreational facilities in Treherbert.”

Councillor Layton Jones said: “These improvements will make a real difference to our parks and play areas. I am very pleased that dog fouling bins are being installed. This should help keep our parks a lot cleaner.”

TREHERBERT PLAID CYMRU ...... Top
Ahead of an official announce TOTW has been informed that the candidates in the forthcoming elections for Plaid Cymru will be Geraint Davies and Layton (Percy) Jones. Both candidates are the current councillors for the area.

BLAENRHONDDA MAN PULLED FROM FIRE ...... Top
Lee Mathias (Blaenrhondda) was pulled from a blaze by his work mate and dragged to a nearby stream in an attempt to exhigusion the flames. Mr Mathias, 30, is currently in Morriston Hospital in a criticial condition after encounting severe burns. Both Mr Mathias and his unnamed work mate are both employed by a Treherbert fabrications and welding company. The fire broke out while the men were cleaning an 'external hopper unit'. How the blaze began is currently unknown. It is belivered that the hopper unit held metal dust.

Lyndon Morton, Officer at Pontypridd Fire Station, stated: "We were there for three hours fighting the blaze. As to why the fire started we're not exactly sure. We believe a lamp may have been taken into the silo and ignited the dust, but we don't really know."

An investigation by the Health & Safety Executive has been launched.

NEW POLLING STATION FOR ABERTONLLWYD HOUSE RESIDENTS ...... Top
Residents of Abertonllwyd House in Treherbert will, from June 10, be able to place their election vote at the nearby Treherbert Community Education Centre. Previously the residents had to travel to Treherbert O.A.P. Hall in Gwendoline Street despite the fact that a polling station was next door to their property. The polling station move has been secured by Treherbert Councillor Layton (Percy) Jones: "This move will help the house residents as the majority of them are elderly or disabled and have found it difficult to get to the O.A.P. Hall. It's good news."

TREHERBERT HISTORY SOCIETY ...... Top
Formed by Treherbert author Sean James Cameron the Treherbert History Society aims to preserve the history of Treherbert and district through various methods. "Treherbert and district has a wealth of history attached to it. We know so much but there are some areas of its history that haven't been looked into yet. The aim of the society is to preserve the past and present for future generations to appreciate." If you would like to receive further information then you can contact Mr Cameron on 07952-245-967 or email him via their website. Research from the society will also be available through their website and promises to tell you aspects of Treherbert that you may not know. Such as, did you know about the Treherbert spring water source!

PENYRENGLYN SCHOOL GHOST ...... Top
Do you know anything of the 'Penyrenglyn School Ghost'? Murmurs on dark street corners of Penyrenglyn have been circulating in the past week of strange sightings of a 'ghostly' figure since demolishing work has began. It is believed that the demolishing of the school has disturbed 'something' within the school building and its arches. What do you know of the Penyrenglyn School Ghost? Have you got any pictures of this ghostly figure? It is reported that last week a group of children were taking photographs of the school on their mobile phone. When one of the children looked at the photographs they discovered a 'ghostly' figure. Are you one of these children? Do you know who they area? Over the schools history there have been a few occassions which could be associated with this ghost. Do you have the ghostly image on your phone? If so, or you know who the children are then contact us at Treherbert on the Web on 07952-245-967 or via email.

DOG OWNERS BEWARE ...... Top
Dog owners will now face 'on-the-spot' fines if their dog fouls public places and/or pavements at a cost of £75. Previously the fine was £25, Rhondda Cynon Taff Council are now patrolling the streets in search of dog mess and their owners. The fines will have to be paid within fourteen days and failure can result in prosecution accompanied with a maximum fine of £2,500.

PENYRENGLYN SCHOOLS: END OF AN ERA ...... Top

This week sees the end of Penyrenglyn Junior School. Builders began work on the Junior school last week and it is expected that by Thursday of this week the school will be demolished. It will take a further week to clear the site of the rubble.

It is a sad fact to think of Penyrenglyn without its major building being present. The school was opened a year after the Blaenrhondda to Llyn reservoir tunnel was opened and a year before an official visit by King George V & Queen Mary. It is believed that the site will be used for housing.

Build in 1911 the school housed children from Penyrenglyn and Ynyswen. On March 9 (Monday) the Infants School was set ablaze by a local 14 year old boy. He was arrested on the Monday afternoon but was released on police bail later in that day. The extent of the fire was so severe that the building had to be demolished for safety reasons. On the Tuesday evening (March 9) ex-pupil and Councillor Layton 'Percy' Jones visited the site: "It is devastating the way the school has ended. I'm feeling very sad about it. I spent my early years at the school and was the last Chair on its Board of Governers. It's the end of an era. Very sad."The owners of the site, who live in the Isle-of-Wight, were contacted and local councillors expressed their fears that a similar fate could come to the Junior School. Local residents of Hopkin Street were growing increasingly in fear that their homes could be damaged if the Juniors School was set ablaze. After discussions with the owners it was agreed that the Junior School would be demolished. During the week on May 3, 2004, work began on demolishing the last school. The whole operation will take less than a week to complete and by the end of May the whole site will be cleared.

It is understood that a planning application has been received by Rhondda Cynon Taff Council for houses.

Editor: Click on the photograph to see video. What are your memories of these schools? Tell us in 'Your Views' and help keep the memories of Penyrenglyn Infants and Junior School alive. Take a look at our archive photographs.

COUNCILLOR WELCOMES NEW THEATRE PLANS ...... Top

Councillor Layton (Percy) Jones welcomes RCT's proposed plan for the re-development of the Parc & Dare Theatre in Treorchy. Councillor Jones, who takes a keen interest in the arts, said: "If this has the go-ahead it will be the best thing to happen in the Rhondda Valley for years. Rhondda is enriched in culture and this centre would be a way of embracing that."

Editor: What do you think of the new Parc & Dare Theatre plans? Let us know your views in 'Your Say'.

SUITE SELLERS TARGET SOUTH WALES RESIDENTS ...... Top
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council's trading standards officers have issued a warning in a bid to stop local residents being targeted by illegal 'cold-calling' traders. Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has warned residents to be aware of traders selling cream leather suites from their vans - information received suggests that up to 25 vehicles are currently working in the area. Already, the Council has received complaints from residents in Trehafod, Porth, Treorchy, Clydach Vale and Beddau. The men have been seen going door-to-door, as well as calling out to passers by in the street. The normal sales 'pitch' is that the suites are surplus to requirements at local housing developments, and the suites, that are usually described as leather or Italian leather, have been offered for sale for between £300 and £480.

"We believe the suites are likely to be made of PVC and not leather," said Councillor Adrian Hobson, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council's Cabinet Member for Environmental Improvement. "Similar suites in other parts of the country have been found to be highly flammable. Thankfully, so far, complainants have been suspicious of the seller's claims and have not purchased the goods offered. However, we're concerned that some people will have been taken in by these claims, and consider it to be very likely that some people have actually bought items from these sellers. We're urging any members of the public who might have bought one of these suites, or been approached by the sellers, to immediately contact our officers. We're also working closely with the local Police in a bid to combat these Traders."

Always be vary of people selling goods door to door or from vans and consider how you would be able to contact the seller in the event of any problem with the goods. If you are approached by men in a van seeking to sell any goods, then do take details of the vehicle description and registration number, as well as descriptions of the sellers concerned, then contact Trading Standards. For further information contact Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Trading Standards on 01443 442100.

CROWN HOTEL IN COURT: WATERED & SUBSTITUTED SMIRNOFF VODKA ...... Top
Magistrates fined Bernice Ham, assistant manager of the Crown Hotel, Ynyswen Road, Treorchy, a total of £400, with an additional £292.29 in costs. Ham, aged 45, who also lives at the Crown Hotel, pleaded guilty to two offences of selling watered and substituted Smirnoff Vodka under the Food Safety Act 1990.Magistrates heard that in February 2003, trading standards officers from Rhondda Cynon Taf Council had carried out a routine inspection of the Crown Hotel.

The officer carried out screening tests on a bottle of Smirnoff Vodka that was for sale behind the bar. As the test gave them some cause for concern the officers purchased a formal sample of vodka for further testing.The sample was submitted for analysis by the Public Analyst, who reported that the sample was not genuine UK produced Smirnoff Vodka, and that the sample was deficient by an amount equivalent to 5.5% added water against its stated alcohol content of 37.5%.

Mr Tony Hughes, prosecuting on behalf of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, stated that when she was interviewed, Ham said that on Christmas Day the pub had run out of Smirnoff. As they could not get to a shop to purchase another bottle of Smirnoff, her partner had topped up the Smirnoff bottle using a bottle of another brand of Vodka from Ham's home. However, she explained that the vodka in this bottle was 37.5% alcohol, so she had no explanation why the vodka was understrength. Ham said that she was a bit "green" over these matters, as she was only acting as the assistant manager for a trial period.

The Magistrate gave Ham credit for the early guilty plea, and the co-operation with the prosecution, but nevertheless considered it to be a serious offence. The case was heard at Rhondda Magistrates Court on 16th January 2004.

LOCAL BOY IN WEST END SHOW ...... Top
Ian Watkins, otherwise known as 'H', will be realising one of his dreams as a performer. Ian Watkins has been cast in the world famous West End musical production "Joseph", and will be performing at The New London Theatre from March 1st 2004. The show has broken records and received rave reviews in the past with the trend set to continue with the help of Ian's on stage presence and vocal talent made famous by over 5 years of chart success.