What a bright spark

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, October 29, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.

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What a bright spark

A big day out!

RICHARD THOMAS heads to the Sparks In The Dark fireworks display in Swansea.

WHY? Sparks In The Dark is Swansea's largest fireworks display. Thousands of people turn up to enjoy the annual fireworks extravaganza at St Helen's Rugby Ground in Swansea every year. The event also includes a large circus skills workshop, where peope have the opportunity to have a go at juggling, stilt-walking and unicycling.

WHAT’S THE BUZZ? Historically November 5 is associated with fireworks and the famous Gunpowder Plot to blow up Parliament on that day in 1605. But this year Swansea Council is throwing tradition on the bonfire by holding its annual Sparks in the Dark fireworks display at St Helen’s Rugby and Cricket Ground on Friday November 4 instead. The decision to bring the fireworks display forward by 24 hours was made in order to avoid any conflict with the Ospreys versus Scarlets rugby match taking place at the Liberty Stadium on Saturday November 5.
ANY HISTORY? On November 5, 1605, Guy Fawkes, a member of the Gunpowder Plot, was caught guarding explosives placed beneath the House of Lords and arrested. Celebrating the fact that King James I had survived the attempt on his life, people lit bonfires around London, and months later the introduction of the Observance of 5th November Act enforced an annual public day of thanksgiving for the plot's failure.
WHAT TO TAKE? Advanced tickets are priced at £15 for families (2 adults and up to 3 children), £4.50 standard, £3.50 concessions and £3 Passport to Leisure. Tickets purchased on the night are £20 for families (2 adults and up to 3 children), £5.50 standard, £4.50 concessions and £3.50 Passport to Leisure. Accompanied Under 3s go free. Candy floss, hotdogs, burgers as well as glow sticks and other glow in the dark toys will all be available to buy on the night.
LOOK OUT FOR? The show will see Swansea Bay light up with a spectacular fireworks display and The Wave and Swansea Sound will be on stage with live music, special guests and entertainment throughout the night. Fire jugglers and children's entertainers will also be at St Helen's to provide pre-fireworks fun on the night.
WHEN TO GO? Gates for fireworks extravaganza open on Friday November 4 at 5.30pm with entertainment starting at 6pm. The evening will finish with a spectacular fireworks display choreographed to music at 7.30pm.
TELL ME MORE: The fireworks display will be held at St Helen's Rugby and Cricket Ground in Swansea. For sat nav users the address and postcode is: 1 Bryn Road, Brynmill, Swansea, SA2 0AR. Tickets can be purchased online at www.swansea.gov.uk/fireworks or by calling Swansea Tourist Information Centre on 01792 468321. Alternatively, tickets can be purchased in person from a number of venues including Swansea Tourist Information Centre, Mumbles Tourist Information Centre, Swansea Civic Centre and any Active Swansea Leisure Centre. Tickets can also be purchased in person on the night on the gates at St Helen's Ground.

Centre offers so much

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, October 22, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.

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Centre offers so much
A big day out!
RICHARD THOMAS heads to ...
The Taliesin Arts Centre in Swansea.

WHY?
The Taliesin Arts Centre is a very popular venue presenting a wide variety of performances and exhibitions. Open throughout the year the centre host a broad programme of events including cinema screenings and a wide variety of live performances. With a programme ranging from children's events to opera, there's something to suit all tastes.

WHAT’S THE BUZZ?
The Taliesin hold over 50 live performances per year. With Halloween just around the corner, on October 20 and 22 the Volcano Theatre Company will be performing a production of Anthony Burgess' dystopian novel made infamous by Stanley Kubrick's 1971 film adaptation, A Clockwork Orange. Then on November 4, six piece ensemble HarmonieBand perform Paul Robinson’s new score for Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror durring a screening of F. W. Murnau's classic vampire film. The 1922 German Expressionist horror film starring Max Schreck, whose surname appropriately translates to terror, was the first film version of Dracula.

ANY HISTORY?
The Taliesin first opened in 1984 and is named after the 6th century Celtic bard or poet of the same name. According to legend Taliesin sung at the court of King Arthur and other British kings.

WHAT TO TAKE?
Tickets for A Clockwork Orange cost £18 for adults and £10 for under 18s, full time students and senior citizens. Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror tickets cost £8 full price and only £6 for under 18s and other concessions. More information about ticket prices can be found on the Taliesin website.

LOOK OUT FOR?
The Ceri Richards Gallery inside the Taliesin hosts regular touring exhibitions and stocks an excellent range of greetings cards as well as jewellery, ceramics and other craft items.

The Taliesin also houses the Egypt Centre, a museum of Egyptian antiquities. There are over 4500 items in the collection. Egypt Centre staff have published over 100 online pages concerning individual items, which you can find on the Egypt Centre website at ww.swan.ac.uk/egypt.The funerary items on display in the House of Death are one highlight. These include amulets, shrouds, statues, coffins and fragments of coffins, and even canopic jars, which were used by the Ancient Egyptians to store and preserve the internal organs of the deceased for their journey through the afterlife.

WHEN TO GO?
The Taliesin is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm. On Saturdays the centre is open 10am to 1pm and 1.30pm to 4pm. The box office remains open until 8pm on performance evenings. Unless otherwise stated screenings begin at 7.30pm. More information about event times and dates can be found on theirthe Taliesin website. Just go to www.taliesinartscentre.co.uk and click "diary".

TELL ME MORE
The Taliesin Arts Centre can be found on the campus of Swansea University at Singleton Park. For sat nav users their address and postcode is: Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PZ. For more information and to book tickets call 01792 602060.

A grand place to visit

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, October 15, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.

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A grand place to visit
A big day out!

RICHARD THOMAS heads to …

The Grand Theatre in Swansea.

WHY?
The Grand Theatre in Swansea has a 1,000-seat auditorium and hosts a wide variety of shows and exhibitions for everyone to enjoy.
WHAT’S THE BUZZ?
There’s lots to look forward to at The Grand this Autumn. From October 20 to 22 the Multi award winning Sell a Door Theatre Company celebrate the centenary of author William Golding with a 2011 revival of his classic tale of morality vs. immorality, the Lord of the Flies. And on October 25 you can enjoy an evening with the UK’s most famous TV Spirit Medium Derek Acorah.
ANY HISTORY?
Since 1897, Swansea's Grand Theatre has been providing the public with a broad range of cultural, artistic and general entertainment events. The Grand Theatre was designed by the architect William Hope of Newcastle in 1897. It was built by D. Jenkins and was opened by Madam Adelina Patti - an Opera Diva of her day - under the original proprietors Morell and Mouillot.
The Swansea Corporation leased the building in May 1969 and bought it outright in 1979. The Theatre was then refurbished and updated during the period 1983 - 1987 at a cost of £6.5 million. A further £1 million was spent for the Arts Wing to open its doors for the first time in 1999.
Over the last twenty years, the fabric of "The Grand" has been improved and enhanced considerably, thanks to the support of the former Swansea Corporation, Swansea City Council and more recently the City and County of Swansea. However, none of the theatre's unique identity has suffered as a result of this improvement and today's Grand is as full of charm and atmosphere as was the case when the theatre first opened its doors all those years ago.
WHAT TO TAKE?
Morning tea and coffee, lunchtime specials and pre-show dinners are available in the theatre’s Footlights Café Bar. Located in the theatre’s delightful garden area it's the perfect setting to meet with friends for a drink or a light meal. The menu includes fresh Italian coffees, a variety of teas, sandwiches, toasted sandwiches, pasties, cold drinks and fresh pastries.
Information about ticket prices can be found in the Autumn Brochure, which can be downloaded at www.swanseagrand.co.uk.
LOOK OUT FOR?
The Arts Wing is the most recent development at The Grand and adds almost 2000 square metres of extra space to the theatre. The contemporary space holds exhibitions, conferences and smaller-scale music and drama performances including lunchtime theatre on the last Saturday of each month and a regular comedy club featuring acts on the comedy circuit. On the top floor there is also the Rooftop Café, Restaurant and Bar with it's own terrace, affording unique views of Swansea.
WHEN TO GO?
The Grand is open Monday to Saturday between 9.30am to 8pm, on non performance days they close at 6pm. On Sundays the theatre is open for one hour before performances.
TELL ME MORE
The Grand is situated in the heart of Swansea’s city centre on Singleton Street. For sat nav users their postcode is SA1 3QJ. To book your tickets call the Box Office on 01792 475715.

Make a splash at LC

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, October 8, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.
 

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Make a splash at LC

A big day out!
RICHARD THOMAS heads to ... LC in Swansea.

 
WHY? Located on the main Oystermouth Road adjacent to the National Waterfront Museum, the LC is Swansea’s premiere leisure complex offering entertainment
and adventure for the whole family.
WHAT’S THE BUZZ? The LC is the most visited paid attraction in the whole of Wales and with so many different activities to choose from it’s easy to see why. You can make waves in their fantastic family-orientated waterpark that features an exciting network of pools, rides and slides, including the much loved wave pool! Or, if you prefer to stay dry, you can put your nerve to the test on the 30 foot climbing wall, the perfect place to experience the excitement and challenges of rock climbing! There’s also a sports hall where you can play games and a state-of-the-art fitness centre, as well as a luxurious spa to relax in, and even an interactive play area for the kids.
ANY HISTORY? Opened by the Queen during her silver jubilee celebrations in 1977, the original Swansea Leisure Centre featured modern and groundbreaking facilities, such as the first wave machine to be installed in a leisure centre in Wales. It became one of Wales' top leisure facilities and a substantial tourist attraction. At its peak it attracted more than 800,000 visitors annually. The Swansea Leisure Centre was closed, however, in 2003, which resulted in the loss of a major wet weather visitor attraction and a major facility in which families and people of all ages could enjoy a range of recreational activities. Following a review of the options available to them, Swansea Council decided that the refurbishment of the Leisure Centre was the most effective option and work soon progressed in developing the site into a 21st century leisure complex. Rebranded the LC, the refurbished facility was officially reopened by the Queen in 2008.
LOOK OUT FOR? The LC’s Indoor Surf Experience, offering all the fun and excitement of catching a wave, in a safe and controlled environment, has to be highlight. As is the waterpark’s very own white knuckle roller-coaster style ride the Master Blaster!
WHAT TO TAKE? If you want to visit the waterpark tickets cost £7 per adult but children (under 3-years old) can swim for free, and if you prebook on the LC website or by telephoning (See TELL ME MORE) you can jump the queues! You’ll need to bring a towel and swimming trunks/bather with you. And children who are not confident swimmers yet should wear arm bands. But if you do forget to bring these with you, or are missing something, don’t worry because goggles, swim wear, towels, arm bands and other pool accessories can all be bought from the LC Shop based in the main reception area. Food is available to buy in the LC Coffee Shop.
WHEN TO GO? The LC is open 6.30am to 10pm Monday to Friday. The waterpark opening times are 4pm to 9pm during Term Time and 9am to 8pm on Weekends and during School and Bank Holidays.
TELL ME MORE More information about ticket prices and opening times, etc. can all be found on the LC website at www.thelcswansea.co.uk.
You can contact the LC at the following address: LC, Oystermouth Road, Swansea SA1 3ST. You can also telephone on 01792 484672 or Email at enquires@the-lc.co.uk.

South Wales Evening Post work experience news stories

Below you can read some of the news stories and a "spy in the aisles" feature I wrote while on a work experience placement at the South Wales Evening Post between August 22 and 26, 2011.

UPDATE: After completing my work experience placement week at the South Wales Evening Post, I was invited back to work on the newspaper's news desk on the weekends. Below are some examples of the articles and stories I've written.

Lots to amuse at pier

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, October 1, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.
 

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Lots to amuse at pier

A big day out!

RICHARD THOMAS heads to …

Mumbles Pier in Swansea.

WHY?

One of Wales’ last Victorian piers, Mumbles Pier offers visitors some of the most spectacular views of natural beauty in Wales. From the iconic walkway you can see the breathtaking scenery of Mumbles Bay, Mumbles Lighthouse and Port Talbot.

QUIRKY HISTORY?

Mumbles began its status as a popular tourist haunt when Mumbles Pier, designed by W. Sutcliffe Marsh and promoted by John Jones Jenkins of the Rhondda and Swansea Bay Railway, first opened on May 10, 1898. Stretching 225 meters out into Mumbles Bay, the Victorian built pier was once the only way to visit Swansea in style. The White Funnel paddle steamers of the Bristol-based P & A Campbell Ltd company would dock on the end of the pier unloading tourists who would then make their journey via the Swansea and Mumbles Railway: the world’s first passenger railway.

Despite its happy history, however, there is a ghost story linked to the popular Victorian attraction. The figure of a young woman wearing a long white dress and what looks like a scarf or shawl wrapped around her face has been seen walking on the pier late at night after the pier closes. This apparition allegedly disappearing before startled onlookers can ask her who she is, or, what she is doing there.

WHAT TO TAKE?

There is a small charge of 50p to enter Mumbles Pier itself. Food and drink are available in the pier’s café and pub.

LOOK OUT FOR?

Although in recent years the pier has fallen into a state of disrepair with a large section fenced off to the public, the bustling holiday magnet still has lots to offer visitors. In the amusements arcade you can try your luck at the slot machines while the children play all the latest video games. There’s also ten pen bowling and an array of prizes to be won on the cranes.

WHEN TO GO?

Mumbles Pier is open seven days a week between 9am to 8pm. On Sunday October 30 between 2pm and 6pm there will be a special Halloween party at the pier where they’ll be a disco, apple bobbing, face painting, magic show and BBQ. The highlight of the event will be a fancy dress competition with a special prize for the best dressed family. To take part in the fun only costs adults £1 and kids can join in for free. The organisers of the event have setup a Facebook page which you can find by searching for Halloween Haunted House kid`s party!!!

TELL ME MORE

Mumbles Pier is situated in Mumbles five miles from the centre of Swansea. Their address and postcode is: Amusement Equipment Co Ltd, Old Lifeboat Cottage, Mumbles Road, Mumbles, Swansea, SA3 4EN. For more information you can call on 01792 365220 or go to www.mumbles-pier.co.uk.

Gateway close to home

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, September 24, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.

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Gateway close to home

A big day out!

RICHARD THOMAS heads to … Gower.

WHY?
The Gower Peninsula is an area of immense unspoilt natural beauty unparalleled in South Wales. Home to some of world’s best coastal scenery, the Gower had the honour of being the first part of Britain to be designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which means you will not find high-rise hotels or neon-lit beach bars spoiling what the writer Wynford Vaughan Thomas called: “a secret that people hug to themselves.”
WHAT’S THE BUZZ?
The Gower is home to some of Britain’s best beaches. These include neat Caswell, tiny Bracelet, and the stunning Three Cliffs Bay, with its odd tidal pools. But most families will often choose sturdy Langland. The picture-perfect bay with its beach huts, rock pools and cliff path walks is ideal for beach goers of all ages.
A stroll along the cliff tops almost anywhere in the peninsula will take your breath away. The most spectacular is the walk from the cliff tops of Rhossili out along the promontory known as Worm’s Head.
But Gower isn't all about the world class beaches, there are a wide range of activities to enjoy down Gower too. The Gower’s ancient churches host a series of intimate music events, which feature the Swansea Bach Choir and the Prince of Wales’s personal harpist, Claire Jones.
At Gower you can also enjoy sailing round the coast with Gower Coast Adventures, departing from either Port Eynon or Mumbles. The purpose-built jet boat can manoeuvre safely in shallow waters, so you can get close to secluded bays and local wildlife. On the voyage you can see animals ranging from gannets and shearwaters to seals and porpoises.
Afterwards you can have dinner at Welcome to Town in Llanrhidian. Master chef Ian Bennett specialises in local produce. Items on the menu include hand-dived scallops, tian of dressed crab, and lobsters and crabs fresh from Oxwich bay.
ANY HISTORY?
The Gower is also rich in myth and history. Arthur’s Stone is just a short walk away from Cefn Bryn Common. The 25-ton capstone roofs a Neolithic burial chamber, long ago emptied by relic hunters. Legend has it that the stone is a pebble that King Arthur removed from his boot on his way to his last battle at Camlann in 539 CE. From this point you have a 360-degree view of the Gower, from the salt marshes to the north to the Southern bays.
WHAT TO TAKE?
There are lots of other hotels and restaurants to choose from. On the common in Reynoldston is the King Arthur Hotel, which is everything a country pub should be. The King Arthur is renowned for traditional ales and delicious home-cooked food, suited to all tastes. On their specials board you can chose from seasonal game, Welsh black beef, locally caught fish, as well as vegetarian options. All are served in their restaurant, family room, main bar and at outdoor tables on the green. You can also sample local Welsh brew or any of their range of beers, fine wines or spirits
WHEN TO GO?
The Gower is only five miles from Swansea city centre and buses from Swansea regularly run passengers to and all over the Gower. First Cymru, the region's largest bus operating company, even run an open top bus service between Swansea city centre and Bracelet Bay.
TELL ME MORE
For more information visit www.swansea.gov.uk/aonb.

Take a tour of castle

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, September 17, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.

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Take a tour of castle

A big day out!

RICHARD THOMAS heads to …

Oystermouth Castle in Swansea.

WHY?
The Norman stone castle overlooking the Mumbles reopened in July with a fantastic event which included falconry displays and medieval themed shows. This month the Friends of Oystermouth Castle will be holding photographic exhibitions at the castle where visitors can see photographs of the battlement over the years by local photographers.
QUIRKY HISTORY?
Oystermouth Castle was built around 1100 by William de Londres and later rebuilt in the 13th century by the infamous de Breos family, after being burnt down by the Welsh twice. Like a lot of buildings with a long and violent history there is a ghost story attached to the castle. Known as The White Lady of Oystermouth Castle, this apparition of a woman dressed all in white has been experienced many times by visitors to the battlement. The White Lady is usually seen weeping, with the back of her dress ripped away and a series of bloody welts on her back. The woman then abruptly vanishes before confused onlookers can offer her any assistance. Reports of the woman in white go back centuries, leading some paranormal investigators to believe she might have died after being tortured on the medieval whipping post which still stands in the castle’s dungeon.
WHAT TO TAKE?
There is a small charge for admission into the castle to help towards conservation work currently underway at the site. Their admission prices are:
Adult: £1
Concession: 80p
PTL: 60p
Children under five go for free. There are currently no credit/debit card facilities on the castle site, though, so don’t forget to bring cash. Also, make sure you wear suitable footwear for the uneven terrain.
LOOK OUT FOR?
In July a new 30-foot-high glass bridge opened allowing access to the part of the castle called Alina's Chapel for the first time in hundreds of years. The chapel was added to the castle in the 14th century and marks the attraction’s highest medieval point.
WHEN TO GO?
The castle will be open daily between 11am and 5pm until 30 September. Last admissions are 30 minutes before closing. Next weekend (24 and 25 September) there is a special Medieval Costume Weekend with Ostreme Theatre Players, where you'll be able to wander around the castle and catch a glimpse of 14th century characters like Lady Alina and her father William de Breos.
WHERE TO GO?
Oystermouth Castle is located in a beautiful location on the hill in Mumbles overlooking Swansea Bay. Follow the A4067 into Mumbles and then turn right up Newton Road at the mini-roundabout by the White Rose. The castle is halfway up Newton Road on the right hand side. For sat nav users the castle’s postcode is SA3 5TA.
CONTACT DETAILS?
For further information contact Oystermouth Castle Community Officer Erika Kluge on 01792 635075 or visit www.swansea.gov.uk/oystermouthcastle.

Heaven and Hell with Amanda Jones - Deputy Headteacher at Clase Primery School

Below is a "Heaven and Hell" feature I did with the Deputy Headteacher Amanda Jones for the Saturday, September 3, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.

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Heaven and Hell 
  

   
Deputy Headteacher AMANDA JONES at Clase Primery School tells us about her holiday highs and lows.
 
What was your best holiday?
"My best holiday was in Kenya, the Samburu District. It was more of a working holiday as I helped to do a few things for the communities there. I was on a project called Operation Raleigh which involved me helping to build a pharmacy and a school in two small villages. I also taught in some schools and that is where I decided that I wanted to be a teacher. I loved being with the children.”
   

What was your worst holiday?
"My worst holiday was when I went to Albufeira in Portugal. It was full of crammed holiday resorts, many being constructed and it was quite noisy! I missed the opportunity at the time to go on the beach and swim in the water and I don’t think I would go back there either. However there are some wonderful places else where I would like to go in Portugal as I know it is steeped in history and has beautiful villages to visit!”
  

What was your most memorable holiday moment?
“My most memorable holiday moment was dancing in a ditch with lots of school children, singing! The ditch was the foundations for their school and I was helping to build it. I can’t remember the name of the village but I think it was about 20 miles outside Maralal in the Samburu District of Kenya. It was one of the projects I was working on when I went on Operation Raleigh.”

What was the best experience in a hotel you have had?
"My best experience in a hotel was lying in bed in a wooden hut in an exclusive resort in Kenya feeling sleepy but the view was so incredible that I tried really hard to stay awake. The resort was called Lake Baringo Island Camp and it was right in the middle of a lake. I had spent some time at the lake logging animals that we could find and analysing water samples back at the lab on the banks of the lake. There were hippos there and we took turns to watch out through the night. It was really hard work, physically and mentally, and we worked long hours. Afterwards the hotel owners invited us to stay and use their facilities, we ate like kings with fresh food that they kindly provided for us and I slept in a beautiful bed for the first time in weeks instead of a sleeping bag on the floor.”
  

What is your fantasty holiday?
"My fantasy holiday is going to the mountains of the Himalayas - walking to base camp Everest and maybe doing some voluntary work in schools along the way. I would like to voluntarily teach the children in the villages at the bottom of Everest. I would also like to work in a hospital of some kind looking after sick children, or maybe an orphanage.” 

My school photo with Karate instructor Tracy Thomas

Below is a "School Photo" feature I did with Karate instructor Tracy Thomas for the Friday, September 9, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.

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My school photo

Karate instructor and Second Dan Black Belt, TRACY THOMAS, who teaches at Kenshin Karate Club in Morriston tells us about her school days.

“I went to Cwmrhydeiceirw Infant school and then Clase Junior School. When I left to go to Secondary school I went to Mynyddbach Comprehensive School for girls.
When I was in the infant school I was a bit of a Tomboy. I liked to play in the water, generally splashing the other children and tipping water from one container to the other. I look back now and think where is the fun in that!”
“My favourite teacher was Mrs Williams. She had thick curly fair hair and glasses and was really caring towards me, she gave me cuddles and hugs all the time and I saw her as my second mum. I was a bit naughty in school on times and I remember once kicking a football in class on my last day of school in the infants. The classroom had been newly painted and I left a great big muddy patch on the shining white ceiling. I certainly left my mark on that school!”
“When I went to Junior school my favourite teacher was Mr. Uren. It had to be really because he was the only teacher I had. It was really unusual to have the same teacher for three years on the trot and unlucky for him I was in it!”
“I hated school dinners and was the only child who came home at lunch time. One time my Mum said I could stay home if I wanted and of course I took her up on this magical moment. I used my time to go and talk to the lolly pop lady. She was a really kind person and I loved to listen to her stories. She was kind of like my third Mum. However, it was doomed from the start and I got caught loitering by my teacher. In shock I ran and leapt over a wall crouched down and hid until he had passed. This didn’t go unnoticed of course and I had a row the next day.”
“My favourite subject has always been PE. My teacher used to give us the lesson plans for the week and put them on the board. We always knew what was coming up next. Friday afternoon was timetabled for PE and I loved it. I looked forward to that time of the week, however, I was usually held back from the lesson for not finishing my work plan.
When I went to secondary School I was in all the top sets for all the subjects. Of course,
PE was still my favourite and my teachers names were Mrs Lindenberg and Mrs Cuthbert. They both encouraged me to run for the school in sprints and relays. To this day I love running and run regularly four times a week. At lunchtimes they used to let me use the gym. I was always in there either playing tennis, badminton, or practising the high jump. I loved the ropes on the high bars and loved the challenge of climbing them, touching the top bar and shining back down.”
“When I was a young girl I wanted to do Kung Fu, but my mother always said it was a sport for boys and I wasn’t allowed. When my daughter was 11 years old I took her to karate lessons. I was determined that she was going to have every opportunity that I had missed. I used to watch her training and would be on the edge of my seat desperate to join in. An opportunity arose when Peter Jones set up a club called Kenshin Karate Club in the Sacred Heart Centre in Morriston. Twelve years on I am now still at the club and supporting Peter as an assistant coach. I am a Second Dan Black Belt and I also run a female adult class on a Thursday evening from 6-7pm. Karate is my passion. It gives me confidence, respect and is a great tool for stress relief. The club has many members who gel well together and welcome new students. It is like my extended family and I couldn’t live my life without it.”
 
Kenshin Karate Club can be found in the Sacred Heart Centre, School Road, Morriston, Swansea, SA6 6HZ. Phone 01792 323477 or visit www.kenshinkarate.co.uk for more information.

Family fun at city farm

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, September 3, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.
 

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Family fun at city farm

A big day out!

RICHARD THOMAS heads to …

Swansea Community Farm in Fforestfach.

WHY?

With the school holidays about to begin, what better way to start enjoying the long summer break than with a trip to Wales’ only city farm.
WHAT’S THE BUZZ?
Swansea Community Farm in Fforestfach, Swansea is a community-led farm run by local people for the benefit of the wider community. The farm provides a fun location where people of all ages can learn about the environment, organic gardening and animal care. Activities held on the 3.5 acre site are run in a way that minimises any negative impact on the environment whilst helping to enhance local biodiversity and encourage nature conservation.
ANY HISTORY?
The farm was conceived in 1992 but it wasn’t until 1998 that a suitable site was found for the city farm. The registered charity was setup to provide opportunities for local volunteers to develop new skills running the farm and to teach visitors about the environment. Volunteers of all ages and abilities have been instrumental in all stages of the farm’s development from the start: setting up a management committee, consulting with the community, planning the site layout and building site structures.
The farm has benefited from substantial development in recent years. In 2004 the front of site was landscaped to make the entrance more attractive, and in 2006 the workshop and animal house was built. The arrival of the first animals to the farm also brought a new interest from adults and children wanting to work with animals in a farm setting. Soon after a raised bed garden was constructed to provide opportunities for volunteers with mobility constraints to participate in farm activities. By the end of 2006 an apiary was constructed under the guidance of The West Glamorgan Beekeepers Association who also provided training for volunteers interested in learning about beekeeping.
The farm now opens six days a week and have 200 child and youth members, 155 adult volunteers, over 50 animals, 10 trustees and nine members of staff.
WHAT TO TAKE?
The farm depends on membership and donations. A years membership only costs £5. Bring a packed lunch with you and don’t forget to bring your camera.
LOOK OUT FOR?
The 3.5 acre site consists of an office, workshop, animal house, cafe, wildlife pond, duck pond, allotments, orchard, apiary, paddocks, adventure play area, fire pit, compost demonstration area, raised beds, and picnic space. There’s also over 50 different animals to see, including sheep, pigs, chickens, rabbits and ducks.
WHEN TO GO?
The Farm is open six days a week: Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm.
TELL ME MORE
Their address is: 2 Pontarddulais Road, Fforestfach, Swansea, SA5 4BA. You can phone on 01792 578384 or visit their website at www.swanseacommunityufarm.org.uk.

Glasshouse is still hot

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, September 10, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.

 
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Glasshouse is still hot

A big day out!

RICHARD THOMAS heads to …

Plantasia in Swansea.

WHY?
A superb all weather attraction in the heart of Swansea, Plantasia houses a huge variety of unusual animals and exotic plants, some of which are extinct in the wild. In October Plantasia are holding two special Halloween themed events, Animal Antics: Spooky Animals and Halloween Spooky Night.
WHAT’S THE BUZZ?
The tropical paradise is housed inside a unique glass pyramid and is just bursting with plants and wildlife. The hothouse contains three climate zones: Tropical with a rainforest, Arid and Humid. The collection includes over 5,000 plants ranging from banana plants, giant bamboo, coconuts and collections of ferns and cacti. Along with the plants there are several species of fish, exotic insects and other animals to see. These include piranhas, a bearded dragon, a chameleon, tarantulas, snakes and even tamarin monkeys. In the butterfly house butterflies can be seen flying freely and viewed at various stages of development.
ANY HISTORY?
Plantasia opened in 1990. In recent years the hothouse has been used as a filming location for two Doctor Who episodes, The Doctor's Daughter and Cold Blood.
WHAT TO TAKE?
There is an admission charge into Plantasia of £3.35 for adults and £2.35 for children. Under 3’s visit for free. Family tickets and annual membership are also available. There is no charge, however, to just sit back and relax in their coffee shop or browse through their fantastic gift shop while others enjoy the exotic plants and animals. Afterwards, you can all enjoy a Joe’s ice cream or fresh donates sold in the stores by the Plantasia entrance.
LOOK OUT FOR?
If you visit during the school holidays there’s usually something extra to entertain the children including treasure trails and interactive animal handling shows. In August Plantasia was visited by the hugely popular Rainforest Roadshow hosted by naturalists David Shaw and his wife Sue. At this special event children had the chance to meet scorpions and stick insects, see a genuine blowpipe, and learn how tribal people hunt and what they eat. The Rainforest Roadshow will be returning to Plantasia next year.
In October there are two other holiday events to look forward too at Plantasia. On October 25, 26 and 27 there’s Animal Antics: Spooky Animals, a special talk where young explorers can get hands on with spooky animals like spiders and other creepy crawlies. Then on October 30 and 31 there’s Halloween Spooky Night when Plantasia opens its doors after dark and lets children dressed in Halloween costumes take part in a ghost trail and explore the depths of the hothouse at night! Both of these events are very popular so pre-booking is essential.
WHEN TO GO?
They are open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm. Last admissions at 4.15pm.
TELL ME MORE
Plantasia is located in the Parc Tawe retail park. For sat nav users their address and postcode is: Plantasia, Parc Tawe, Swansea, SA1 2AL. To book phone 01792 47455 or for more information visit www.plantasia.org.

Tee off at golf course

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, August 27, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.
 

 
 
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Tee off at golf course
A big day out! 
RICHARD THOMAS heads to …
Ashleigh Road Pitch & Putt golf course.

WHY?
With the summer sun back why not give golf a go at Ashleigh Road golf course, Swansea's only 10 hole golf course.
WHAT’S THE BUZZ?
Running along the promenade, and situated opposite the road it is named after, is Ashleigh Road Pitch & Putt golf course.
The course has no handicap requirements so it is ideal for beginners of all ages and those who just want to have some fun. It is also a great course for more experienced players to brush up on their pitching and putting skills.
ANY HISTORY?
The game of golf has a long history in Wales. The years 1850-1900 were a time of dramatic changes in Wales. The population virtually doubled in this period. The Industrial Revolution hit the country and the people moved from the countryside to the towns. Suddenly, Welsh men and women had more time on their hands, especially the rich, and they began looking around for something to do with their leisure time.
Tenby Golf Club is officially the oldest club in Wales, having been set up in the autumn of 1888. Many more Welsh courses came into being before the turn of the century.
Borth and Ynyslas, Ceredigion, was in use from 1885, while Baron Hill, on Anglesey, was created in either 1889 or 1890.
Most of the early courses were initially designed to have only nine holes and sometimes ten like the golf course at Ashleigh Road, half of today’s standard 18.
WHAT TO TAKE?
Equipment can be hired for a minimal fee. Just turn up, and “pay and play” a round of golf. Their prices are:
Pay and Play
Standard £4.70, Concession £3.45, PTL £2.10
Club Hire
Standard £2.25, Concession £1.90, PTL £1.00
Golf Ball Purchase
£0.50
Family Ticket
Standard £14.00, Concession £12.00
LOOK OUT FOR?
Asides from the golf course there’s lots of other family activities to check out nearby. You'll find plenty of family fun for free at Blackpill Lido. The Lido is a must when the weather is good with its superb paddling pool, children's play area, climbing rock and picnic facilities. There’s also the award winning Clyne Gardens, the Bay Rider and Swansea Bay to see.
WHEN TO GO?
Ashleigh Road Golf Course is open daily from May to August between 9.30am and 8pm. The last admission is two hours before the stated closing time. From September to April the golf course is open only on weekends.
TELL ME MORE
Heading towards Mumbles on Mumbles Road, Ashleigh Road golf hut is opposite Ashleigh Road on the left hand side, before you get to Blackpill Lido. For sat nav users their postcode is SA3 5AU. For further information and daily closing times call 01792 207544 or visit www.swanseaprom.com.

Experience an exhibit

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, August 20, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.
 

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Experience an exhibit
A big day out! 
RICHARD THOMAS heads to …
Swansea Museum.

WHY?

Swansea Museum was originally setup by the Royal Institution of South Wales, a local group who wanted to investigate all aspects of history, the arts and science at the beginning of the 19th century. Described by the Swansea poet Dylan Thomas as “a museum that belongs in a museum”, the impressive stone building was completed in 1841 in the grand neo-classical style, and is the oldest museum in Wales.
Today visitors are able to see Swansea Museum at four locations: the main museum on Oystermouth Road, The Tramshed on Dylan Thomas Square in Swansea Marina, the museum’s Collections Centre in Landore and the floating exhibits in the dock by The Tramshed.
The main building’s six galleries contain all kinds of unusual objects from Swansea’s past as well as the wider world. One highlight is The Amazing Cabinet of Curiosities gallery dedicated to everything Victorian, an era that was obsessed with the bizarre and strange. It is the museums Egyptology exhibits including an Ancient Egyptian mummy that really puts Swansea Museum on the map, though.
The mummy, named Tem Hor after the god Horus, was a clothier priest and scribe of the god Atum. He lived on the banks of the River Nile in Upper Egypt between 250-200 BCE. The remains and beautifully restored coffin attract mummy worshipers from across South Wales.
Also, if you visit before September 30 you can see the Swansea City Football Club Exhibition. A football focused exhibition commemorating the highs and lows of Swansea City AFC.
In addition to this treasure trove of local and ancient history the museum also has three floating exhibits in its collections which are kept at the Marina: the lightship Helwick; a tug boat called Canning; and the Olga, a Bristol Channel Pilot Cutter built in 1909. Other popular items kept at the museum’s Collections Centre in Landore include old vehicles like a travellers’ van, lorries, a fire engine and two lifeboats, the Naomi Beatty and the William Gammon.
QUIRKY HISTORY?
Swansea Museum is allegedly one of the most haunted locations in Wales. Staff and visitors alike have experienced spooky activity in the main building. According to one member of staff a mysterious “hooded figure” has been seen on several occasions on the stairs and strange “tapping”, “cold spots” and even “whistling” have also been reported.
WHAT TO TAKE?
Admission is free at the museum but you’re not allowed to photograph some of the exhibits. A wide variety of keepsakes including handmade Welsh pottery and glassware, Egyptian memorabilia and Victorian jewellery are all for sale in the Museum Shop.
WHEN TO GO?
Swansea Museum is open from 10am to 5pm every Tuesday to Sunday. Last admissions are at 4pm. The museum is closed Mondays and bank holidays.
WHERE IS IT?
The main building is next door to the LC2. For sat nav users their address and postcode is: Victoria Road, Swansea, SA1 1SN.
CONTACT DETAILS

For more information about exhibitions and events at Swansea Museum you can visit their website at www.swansea.gov.uk/swanseamuseum. You can also phone on 01792 653763.

Tour this sweet treat

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, August 13, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.

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Tour this sweet treat
A big day out! 
RICHARD THOMAS heads to ...
 The Chocolate Factory in Swansea.

WHY?
The Chocolate Factory is unique in Swansea: a real, working chocolate factory offering informative tours for individuals and groups of all ages. With the popularity of the Charlie And The Chocolate Factory film starring Johnny Depp, and the original novel by Roald Dahl, The Chocolate Factory is a fun place to take the kids during their summer break from school. And tour guide, Gareth John, almost like a real-life Willy Wonka, makes sure everyone on the tour gets a chance to see the different factory equipment and taste all the chocolate.
WHAT’S THE BUZZ?
After getting kitted up in the factory’s fashionable hairnets and aprons, the tour begins with a detailed talk about the history of chocolate, from its popularity among the ancient Olmecs and Aztecs of Central America to its discovery by Christopher Columbus and the Spanish Conquistador who conquered Mexico, Hernando Cortes.
This is followed by a walk on the factory floor where you are shown the factory machinery and given a demonstration by Gareth John of how they melt, temper and re-mould chocolate into football shaped lollies, chocolate hearts and other bespoke items.
ANY HISTORY?
The Chocolate Factory was founded by Tony and Michelle Wadley. The brother and sister team moved to the UK from South Africa in 1992, bringing with them their secret recipe for delicious sugar lollipops which they were able to sell to the major high street retailer, Harrods. Building on this success, the two moved to their current premises in 1999 and The Chocolate Factory began doing school tours.
LOOK OUT FOR?
Tour guide Gareth Johns begins the tour by saying, “We’re going to eat a lot of chocolate today!” and this is no exaggeration. As well as the factory’s white, dark and milk chocolate varieties, you also get to taste the new strawberry chocolate being tested by the factory. Gareth also hands out marshmallow lollies, freshly dipped in melted chocolate from one of the factory’s chocolate kettles.
WHAT TO TAKE?
Tours cost £8 for adults and £6 for children aged between three and 16, but group discounts are available for groups of 25 people or more. Cameras are allowed and visitors are encouraged to take photographs throughout the tour. There is also a gift shop where you can buy all the products made in the factory.
WHEN TO GO?
The Chocolate Factory is open for group tours Monday to Friday. They run between four and five tours a day between 9am and 4pm. The summer is The Chocolate Factory’s busiest period of the year, with staff regularly welcoming around 200 costumers a day, so booking in advance is essential. To book phone Gareth John on 01792 561617 or email tours@michton.com.
TELL ME MORE
For sat nav users their address and postcode is: The Chocolate Factory, Swansea West Industrial Park, Fforestfach, Swansea, SA5 4DL. Visit their website at www.thechocfactory.com.

Go ape for cinema

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, August 6, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.
 

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Go ape for cinema
A big day out!
RICHARD THOMAS heads to …
The Odeon cinema in Swansea.　

WHY?
One of the biggest films of the summer, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, is released Thursday, August 11, and there are lots of other big summer blockbusters now showing at the cinema.
WHAT’S THE BUZZ?
The Odeon is a 10 screen cinema situated in the Park Tawe shopping complex in Swansea’s city centre. The cinema is right next door to Tenpin Bowling and other leisure sites including Plantasia and Lazerzone are close by if you want to do something after seeing your film.
The inside of the Odeon is all on one level, allowing easy access for all filmgoers. The cinema has also been upgraded with large screens and digital projectors. Which means filmgoers at the Odeon are able to see 3D versions of the biggest blockbusters like Captain America: The First Avenger, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, and Transformers: Dark of the Moon.
ANY HISTORY?
The Odeon chain of cinemas began in 1928 when Oscar Deutsch opened the first Odeon Cinema in Brierley Hill, a town in the West Midlands, but there is a much older history of film going in Swansea. In 1914 Wales' first purpose built cinema, the Carlton Cinema de Luxe, opened in the city’s Oxford Street. It is now home to a Waterstone’s bookshop.
WHAT TO TAKE?
Ticket prices vary but Friday to Sunday an adult ticket (18 years) costs £7.75 and a child ticket (12 years and under) costs £5.45. Like students and seniors (over 60), a teen ticket (ages 13 to 17) costs £5.75. Don’t forget to bring a photo ID with you, especially if your seeing a film with a 12A, 15 or 18 certificate or want a student discount. More information about ticket prices is available on the Odeon website.
It wouldn’t be the pictures without snacks: popcorn, hot dogs, nachos, sweets and soft drinks are all available at the cinema’s snacks counter. Combos are available to save on costs.
LOOK OUT FOR?
Rise of the Planet of the Apes hits cinemas Thursday, August 11. This is a reboot of the popular Planet of the Apes franchise that began in 1968 with the classic film starring Charlton Heston as astronaut George Taylor. The film uses CGI apes and stars Andy Serkis, best known for playing Gollum in The Lord of the Rings, as a genetically engineered chimpanzee who starts a war for supremacy between humans and apes. Find out more at www.apeswillrise.com.
WHEN TO GO?
The Odeon is open seven days a week. Check the website for film times.
TELL ME MORE
Their address is: Odeon Swansea, Parc Tawe, Swansea, SA1 2BA. To book tickets you can phone their Filmline on 0871 22 44 007 or go to the Odeon in Swansea webpage at www.odeon.co.uk/fanatic/film_times/s19/Swansea.

Take crafty look at history

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, July 30, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.

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Take crafty look at history

A big day out!

RICHARD THOMAS heads to ...

the Gower Heritage Centre.

WHY?
Set in the heart of the Gower Peninsula the Gower Heritage Centre is a fun way to spend your day, whether you’re a group or school and would like to take a coach tour to the Gower and explore what they have on offer, or if you're just passing by and are popping in for a bite to eat at their Tea Rooms.
WHAT’S THE BUZZ?
The Gower Heritage Centre is a visitor attraction and rural life museum based around a working 12th century water-mill. Located only a 15-minuet walk from the breath taking Three Cliffs Bay, the Centre offers fun activities for all the family, including craft shops and craft activities.
ANY HISTORY?
A water powered corn and saw mill was established on the site sometime during the 12th century, with the first written references to the water-mill appearing in government records from about 1300 onwards. In 1990 the Gower Heritage Centre was opened, the 12th century mill was renovated, and experienced craftspeople took up residence on site. Today the Centre welcomes visitors from all around the world.
LOOK OUT FOR?
You can watch the craftspeople resident at the Centre at work and visit their stores as you go round. Some of the gifts available to buy at the Centre include various items in different turned woods made by woodturner John De Filippo, puppets and puppet making kits at Poppet Puppets, as well as paintings and artwork by Cheryl Firths.
Other special items available to buy at the Centre include some amazing driftwood gifts and hand made candles, as well as a range of garden furniture made at the Mill.
There’s also an old fashioned games arcade, as well as a sandpit area, adventure playground, soft play area, and tractor play area. There’s even an animal farm with ducks, baby rabbits, guinea pigs, goats, sheep, horses and other animals.
And, if all that wasn’t enough to see, the Centre is also home to the smallest cinema in Wales, the La Charrette.
WHAT TO TAKE?
There is a small entry fee of £5.50 for adults and £4.50 for children. Seniors and disabled visitors only pay £4.50 and you can opt to buy a family ticket (2 adults and up to 4 children) for just £18.00. More information about entry prices can be found on the Gower Heritage Centre website at: http://www.gowerheritagecentre.co.uk/ Also, don’t forget to bring a camera with you to take some snaps of your trip.
WHEN TO GO?
The Gower Heritage Centre is open from 10am to 5pm Monday to Sunday.
TELL ME MORE
You can contact the Gower Heritage Centre at the following address:
Gower Heritage Centre,
Parkmill,
Gower,
Swansea,
SA3 2EH
You can also telephone on:
1792 371206
And fax on:
1792 371471
or Email at: reception@gowerheritagecentre.co.uk

A game for all ages

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, July 23, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.
 

 

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A game for all ages
  A big day out!
RICHARD THOMAS heads to …
Tenpin Bowling in Swansea.

WHY?
Tenpin Swansea, formerly Megabowl, is the only ten pin bowling alley in Swansea, located in the Parc Tawe shopping and leisure complex near the city centre.
WHAT’S THE BUZZ?
Tenpin Swansea offers a host of family friendly activities for people of all ages and abilities, from first time players right up to veteran bowlers. The alley boasts 26 bowling lanes, three American pool tables, an amusements arcade and cosmic bowling nights. Tenpin Swansea also offers a range of kids birthday party packages.
Held every Saturday and Sunday morning, Tenpin’s Birthday Bash events are occasions to remember. For £12.00 per person you get two games of cosmic bowling, your choice from a selection off the Beach Road Cafe Bar menu, unlimited squash, as well as goody bags for all the kids. There is a minimum of six people for Tenpin parties, but they offer fun and excited for all children aged 12 years old and under.
ANY HISTORY?
Bowling is one of the oldest sports still played in modern times. The earliest forms of bowling can be traced back to Ancient Egypt. In 1930 when the famous Egyptologist Sir Flinders Petrie excavated the grave of an Egyptian boy dating to 3200 BC, the explorer discovered artefacts resembling the pins used in tenpin bowling today. The first standardised rules for the pastime were established in New York City, on September 9, 1895. Today bowling is played around the world in over 90 countries.
WHAT TO TAKE?
One game costs £6.49 for adults and £5.00 for juniors. Two games cost £11.49 (adults) and £9.00 (juniors), and three games costs £12.49 (adults) and £10.00 (juniors). There’s also special family deals available. Four people can play a game for £20.00 or two games for £35.00. Bowling shoes are provided.
Food and drink are available. Their Beach Road Cafe Bar was inspired by the sun bleached, chilled-out beach vibe of Bondi, and is where you can relax with a burger and fries before or after you bowl.
LOOK OUT FOR?
As well as normal ten pin bowling on some nights you can play cosmic bowling, a hybrid of glow-in-the-dark ten pin bowling with dance club music and lights. Up to date information about cosmic bowling times can be found on the Tenpin website listed below.
At Tenpin Swansea there’s also an amusements arcade where you can try to win a prise on the claw machines, or, if you like, you can just chill out watching Sky Sports in the fully licensed bar or playing pool on the three American pool tables.
WHEN TO GO?
The bowling alley is open 11.00am to 12.00am on weekdays and 10.00am to 12.00am on weekends. During the school holidays they are open 10.00am to 12.00am seven days a week. The bar closes at 11.30pm.
TELL ME MORE
For sat nav users their address and postcode is Parc Tawe, The Strand, Swansea, SA1 2AX. You can phone on 0871 873 3150 or book online at www.tenpin.co.uk/swansea.


Grand day out!

Below you can see my old “Grand Day Out” columns I wrote for the South Wales Evening Post before I started writing my weekly “Big Day Out” column on Saturdays. Just click on the photos to read them.

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Grab your bargains

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, July 16, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.

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Grab your bargains
  A big day out!

RICHARD THOMAS heads to …

the Singleton Park Car Boot Sale in Swansea.

WHY?
What with the economic downturn car boot sales are a good way to save money and even make some extra cash and one of Wales’ five biggest is held every Saturday opposite Singleton Hospital in the car park of the Wales National Pool in Swansea.
WHAT’S THE BUZZ?
The Singleton Park Car Boot Sale is a well run car boot sale in the heart of Swansea which helps to raise funds for Singleton Hospital. Attendance barring bad weather is usually very good and there are lots of good deals to be grabbed.
ANY HISTORY?
Father Harry Clarke, a Catholic priest from Stockport first introduced the car boot sale to the UK after seeing a similar event being held in Canada while on holiday there in the early 1970s. Car boot sales now happen regularly across the UK every weekend of the year.
WHAT TO TAKE?
A carrier bag for your purchases would be useful. Food and hot drinks are available. You can choose between burgers and hotdogs or a healthy option. There’s also an ice cream van and a bouncy castle to keep the kids busy.
If you want to have a go at selling your unwanted clutter, cars cost £10.00, and vans and cars with trailers cost £15.00. Aim to get there before 6.00am if you want a good pitch to sell from as the car park fills up very quickly.
LOOK OUT FOR?
Goods available to buy typically include clothes, ornaments, pictures, books, toys and games, CDs, Blu-rays, DVDs, VHS tapes and even electrical goods like digital cameras and game consoles. Videos only cost 50p each and sometimes as little as 10p.
There’s plenty for collectors. When I visited I saw on display classic Playstation, Super Nintindo and Gameboy games and consoles. There were also a lot of old figurines from classic kids TV shows and films like Star Wars and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Some of which are worth a lot more money on websites like eBay for collectors. You might even find some new furniture.
WHEN TO GO?
The car boot sale is open every Saturday all year round from 7.00am to 1.00pm. But begins to close around 12.00pm, so get there early. After 12.00pm prices start coming down if you want to look for some last minuet bargains. I bought a DVD of James Toback’s 2008 film Tyson for just £1.00, original price £5.00!
TELL ME MORE
You can find the Singleton Park Car Boot Sale across the road from Singleton Hospital Car Park. Go to Oystermouth Road, Sketty Lane, Sketty, Swansea, SA2 8QA. Details for this car boot sale and others can be found at www.carbootsaledirectory.co.uk.

Discover wartime past

Below is my “Big Day Out” column from the Saturday, July 9, 2011, Swansea edition of the South Wales Evening Post.

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Discover wartime past
  A big day out!

   RICHARD THOMAS heads to ...

 the 1940s Museum. 

WHY?

Ever wanted to travel back in time? If so, then why not enjoy an educational day out at the 1940s Swansea Bay Museum. With the winter months here, it’s fun for all the family whatever the weather.

WHAT’S THE BUZZ?

The 1940s Swansea Bay Museum is based in Crymlyn Burrows off the Fabian Way in Swansea. The Museum contains exhibits showing what life was like in the Swansea Bay area during and in the immediate aftermath of World War II. The Museum offers visitors a unique chance to discover for themselves what life was like for civilians on the “Home Front” during the war and experience the sights and sounds of an air raid first hand. You even get to find out what you could eat with a week’s rations and dress up in 1940s clothes and uniforms!

ANY HISTORY?

Lots, it’s a museum after all. Most people have heard of the London “Blitz”, but the ports and industrial towns of South Wales were also targets for the German Luftwaffe, a three-night bombing campaign on Swansea in February, 1941, left most of the city destroyed. The 1940s Swansea Bay Museum was setup six years ago to tell the story of the impact of the bombing raids on the area, and how local people managed to cope with the devastation of total war. The Museum is preparing to mark the 70th anniversary of the bombing of Swansea, in February next year.

LOOK OUT FOR?

There are many highlights. The Museum have just recently opened a new exhibit, an authentic wartime grocer's shop, where visitors can see what products available then are still on store shelves today. “Items like Spam, tinned beans and Weetabix are all here on display - although the Weetabix used to come in a tin rather than a box”, according to Museum director John Thomas. In addition short films and displays of actual material from the period help bring to life a time over 65 years ago when every Briton had to carry a gas mask and identity card with them. But the best part of the exhibition has to be the RAF plotting room, where you follow the course of the German bombers before taking cover in the air raid shelter! If you survive the German bombs, when the all clear sounds, you can stroll down the reconstructed 1940s street, past houses, shops and into the corner pub.

WHAT TO TAKE?

Don’t forget to bring a camera with you.

WHEN TO GO?

The Museum is open daily 10am-4pm (last admission 1 hour before closing).

TELL ME MORE

Visit: www.1940sswanseabay.co.uk

Tel: 01792 458864

Email: mail@1940sSwanseaBay.co.uk