Swansea Christmas Lights and Parade

Bring in the "A" Team

It seems that the biggest hurdle to achieving anything in Swansea are the different departments that appear to overlap and who need to sanction the smallest change. A question of too many chiefs? Or maybe too many cooks!

Whatever the reason the simple answer for Swansea to progress is to have a small team who have autonomy and can get quick answers and decisions. A team of visionaries who are action driven to turn the city around. To come up with a plan and put it into place immediately. From little acorns big oak trees grow. 

It will take  more than a few nods and grunts to get this off the ground. There would be loads of opposition and many obstacles but a progressive council could cut the red tape and get this going so that there are results before Xmas.

Every day someone tells me they don't shop in Swansea anymore. Too any "Big Issue" sellers. The city is scruffy. Not enough choice. Parking is still difficult. No "Wow" factor. 

The time for Action is now.

An Opportunity to bring Shoppers to town

We should be planning for bigger better shopping experience

Can't we make the Winter Wonderland and Christmas Lights launch a bigger better experience like they are in Cardiff

CITY CENTRE TO STAGE DAY-LONG CHRISTMAS PARTY

Cardiff, named the 6th best shopping centre in the UK is planning a dazzling launch to the festive (lets call it Christmas and forget the local authority fear and political correctness) celebrations with a full day of free entertainment backed by the city centre traders.

Swansea should be focussed already on such an event. It looks like spending will be down as consumers tighten their belts so a bump start could be a great idea. What are BID doing? We need to climb up the ladder and become a shopping centre that visitors look forward to.

Swansea must stop being the bus pick-up point for Cardiff.

Why don't we have living statues around the city bringing some life!!  Why don't we have some real statues of local heroes? These could be the product of a local competition. And perhaps they could be sited for a couple of months and changed. With the huge number of creative artists in the area this is could be a great focal point.

Go to London and walk along the Bayswater Road. Why don't we have artists displaying their work on a Sunday morning along the High Street or in the park in front of the waterfront museum. Or even along Oxford Street. What a draw that would be. You could even have an artists quarter where artists are working outside like in the Montmartre area of Paris

You have to start somewhere and sometime. So why hasn't this been done before? Why can't it be up and running in a couple of weeks? Why can't the council just a few weeks? Local artists would love this and it wouldn't cost the council anything. Charge a few pounds if necessary: just a nominal amount  and certainly nothing for bonefide students at local colleges and universities.

Get rid of the paperwork. KISS - keep it simple, stupid. Issue licenses at £20 that are valid for 8 weeks as a starter. If it works - as it will - and bingo you will soon be drawing in more visitors. Don't be greedy. Look upon this as an investment.













Come on Swansea.This could be the beginning of something really big. Lets get those visitors excited and turn the tide so Cardiff folk come here.

I Love Swansea Campaign

Bay of Life Campaign! I Love Swansea Campaign!

How many more campaigns are running right now to promote Swansea? Wouldn't it be better to get together and have a bigger impact? Divided we fall: united we stand!

It is now a week since I contacted the Evening Post to tell them that Cllr Chris Holley, Leader of the Council, will be accompanying me on a walk through Swansea talking to both shoppers and traders to get some gut reaction about what is good and bad in the city and ideas of what can be done to promote it as both a destination and shopping city. I should have thought it was pretty damned easy to connect this with the "I Love Swansea" campaign but it sees not.

I note in the Evening Post yesterday that the there has been no increase in usage at the High Street car park. I'm not surprised. I have asked several people in the city centre about the reduced parking fees and without exception nobody knew about it! There seems to be a poor mechanism for spreading information. I know there have been articles in the paper but I think most have been linked with safety or other negative issues.

At a meeting with Phil Roberts and two of his colleagues at the Civic Centre I suggested that perhaps free transport from the railway station to the bus station would be beneficial to rail travellers arriving in town but this was immediately rejected. This quick-fix would also encourage people parking in the High Street car park, particularly on wet or cold days and for those carrying bulky or heavy purchases.

Why aren't there Street Ambassadors giving out information? A couple of students giving out leaflets. Or perhaps the Street Wardens could give a helping hand whilst they patrol the streets. Couldn't BIDS help here too? They have put up some material in empty shop windows. Wouldn't a special parking offer be a great message in shop windows? How about distributing leaflets to the retailers. After all they are the biggest beneficiaries.

On the point of parking I still hear complaints from drivers that they are charged in the NCP car parks for their first hour on Sundays. Ballers clearly say "First Hour Free" it must be very small print about the £3 Sunday charge!!! The fact that parking is free in the council car parks on Sundays does not compensate.

Mike Leahy

Something for everyone

What a load of rubbish

Eric Pickles, the English Local Government Secretary has annjounced today that weekly refuse collections will be re-introduced across England. Over 170 local councils now have fortnightly collections and there are mixed feelings. Some folk think that the fortnightly collections are a backward step encouraging vermin and causing fly-tipping and smell. Whilst others feel that the suggested quarter £billion cost could be used better in other areas with the cuts facing cash-strapped councils.

Does this mean we might see Swansea follow?

How is recycling really going? Are we meeting our targets? What are the facts? I noticed yesterday that there are several black bags outside some homes. And I read somewhere that the accepted number is just two black bags a fortnight. For a family of 4 that seems extremely harsh. But is it true?
 
Interestingly I feel that the early morning  street cleaning is one of the best council services  know. These guys work in all weathers and remove last nights debris. My only concern is the ammount of chewing gum on some pavements. 

Your comments are welcome.

Iconic music festival at Swansea museum

It was one of the world’s biggest ever live music festivals and fans of icons like Jimmi Hendrix now have the chance to find out more about it at Swansea Museum. An exhibition devoted to the 1970 Isle of Wight Festival has opened up at the Victoria Road attraction until the end of the year.

The festival marked one of the last times legendary American guitarist Jimmi Hendrix took to the stage. It also included performances from stars such as Moody Blues, The Who and Jethro Tull. The museum exhibition features a huge selection of photos taken at the event by cameraman Charles Everest.

The photographer described the assignment as the most difficult he ever undertook. He spent five days and five nights not only taking images of the musicians but also of some of the estimated 600,000 festival-goers who attended. Joni Mitchell, Miles Davies and Kris Kristofferson were among the other acts to perform.

The exhibition also includes sculptures by Gut Portelli. They include Hey Joe, a piece that combines Hendrix and Vietnam, and Blow, a piece that features Miles Davies and his iconic trumpet.

Period guitars have been provided by Cranes Music and jewellery by Glenys Everest is on display. Copies of all the framed prints from the CameronLife Collection are available for purchase at the museum along with a large selection of other festival-related memorabilia.

Andy Rosser-Davies will be running guitar workshops throughout the exhibition. Hawkwind, Lovin’ Spoonful, Emerson, folk singer legend Joan Baez, emerging Brit star Donovan, Melanie, Free and Emerson, Lake and Palmer were among the others acts who took to the stage at the Isle of Wight Festival.

Jimmi Hendrix was found dead in London within weeks of his performance.

City Mascot

We have a mascot for the Swans and LC but I don't think there's one for Swansea City.

The term mascot – defined as a term for any person, animal, or object thought to bring luck – colloquially (informally) includes anything used to represent a group with a common public identity, such as a school, professional sports team, society, military unit, or brand name. Mascots are also used as fictional, representative spokespeople for consumer products, such as the rabbit used in advertising and marketing for the General Mills brand of breakfast cereal, Trix. See the LC mascot to the right

And we have the Swan's mascot here on the left. In the world of sports, mascots are also used for merchandising. Team mascots are often confused with team  nicknames. While the two can be interchangeable, they are not always the same. For example, the athletic teams of the University of Alabama are nicknamed the Crimson Tide, while their mascot is an elephant named Big Al. Team mascots may take the form of a logo, person, live animal, inanimate object, or a costumed character, and often appear at team matches and other related events, sports mascots are often used as marketing tools for their teams to children. Since the mid-20th century, costumed characters have provided teams with an opportunity to choose a fantasy creature as their mascot, as is the case with the Philadelphia Phillies' mascot, the Phillie Phanatic.

Costumed mascots are commonplace, and are regularly used as goodwill ambassadors in the community for their team, company, or organization. Apologies for this being so americanised!! Bt you get the drift.

Carrie your Local Business Card

Carrie is your Local Business Card Another idea to bring business into the City Centre.

The Local Business Card was a front runner of the latest rash of discount systems now available such as Groupon.

The Local Business Card offers local businesses the opportunity to promote themselves through regular special offers. The project was developed some 3 years ago but didn't take off becase of the lack of local support. It is set up with window stickers, discount key-fobs and a dynamic website.

We have shown 3 Swansea Council dept directors and BIDS and are surprised that their enthsiasm didn't last beyond a few hours. This scheme, if used within the city centre would encourage consumers to spend more within the area.

The Local Business Card is a simple concept. Card cost £5 per year and entitle the holder to a range of discounts on a whole group of products and services. Traders pay £5 month and are able to put up a number of offers each year. The offers are promoted thyrough a regular e-mail newsletter with downloadable vouchers or a printed voucher sheet, dated with an expiry. The expiry is best to be short and can be anything from a discount,  money-off , 2-4-1 or anything that the trader wants. It is aimed at getting new customers and persuading existing customers to return more often. 


The card is in the form of a key-fob. Research has concluded that paperwork should be kept to a minimum and lost or stolen cards just replaced at a nominal amount. The card is a tool to increase footfall: who uses the card isn't important so it could be used by family members.  


This scheme is simple to manage. The card could be the "Swansea Business Card". It could be up and running in 3 weeks with a small budget and high impact.

Are you up for this Swansea Council?

Chris Holley Leader of Swansea Council

Mike Leahy pleads . . . . .

Lets turn this . . . . . . . .

into this . . .

. . . . .  yes. A happy bunny!!

Seems to me that the Council are like a herd of rabbits (yes! herd may be a suitable word and it's the correct one) as soon as they see any event being organised, any business trying to make a profit, any householder wanting to make home improvements. They are blinkered and can only see "Health and Safety", "Compliance", "Planning Permission" or "Will we be sued?" and shout "STOP!", "NO!" or "YOU CAN'T DO THAT HERE!".

Come on Chris Holley, this is your opportunity to become a leader of men (and women) and show us that you are at the helm and that you are directing your band of merry men to slash the red-tape, become positive and find opportunities to bring the community together and not rend it asunder.

CHRIS HOLLEY THIS IS YOUR WATERLOO!

A Cry for Help? No a Shout to success

Another idea bringing Swansea alive!

Why not employ a Town Crier? Think about it. There would be a competition to find the best Town Crier, This would be a build up through local radio and the South Wales Evening Post and possible coverage by both BBC Wales and local independant TV and radio.

A town crier, or bellman, is an officer of the court who makes public pronouncements as required by the court. They carry a handbell to attract people's attention, as they shout the words "Oyez, Oyez, Oyez!" before making their announcements. The word "Oyez" means "hear ye," which is a call for silence and attention. Oyez derives from the Anglo-Norman word for listen. The proclamations book in Chester from the early 19th century records this as O Yes, O Yes!
The Town Crier, dressed fully in his traditional robes would be a welcome sight and a regular attraction in the City Centre.

But can the Local Authority afford a Town Crier? The simple answer is a resounding “YES!” because he could be advertising local retailers at a low outlay. In fact the alternatives are through BIDS which could ensure all businesses are given an advertising spot, or do it by a fair, transparent draw: or businesses could be offered the facility on a first come first served but at a reasonably cost, maybe a sliding scale so the smallest businesses would have an opportunity to participate This shouldn’t be a money making scheme that the council can use  as a top up.

Think of the benefits. A colourful character walking around the City; his bell and voice certainly attracting attention: advertising forthcoming events (not just council events) attractions, news items and other news; something different!!

There are dozens of free, low-cost or self financing ideas that will help Swansea become more interesting. Watch out for more.

Is Chris Holley reading this and will he, as leader of the Council, take any action. He can call me on 0796 364681

Place of outstanding beauty or Dank and Derelict

Swansea is a city of contrasts. Sweeping golden beaches, a magnificent marina, pedestrianised Oxford Street or the High Street. take yor pick. Indeed as far as the High Street is concerned take your pick and shovel.

We will never get back those days when the High Street was so central to Swansea. Where both road and pavement were jam packed. Where all the shops were full and thriving. An era of bye-gone days. 

But that doesn't the end of the High Street. Willthe Concil take up the challenge today or leave until tomorrow (which never comes)? 

One question needing an answer is are the owners of these properties paying Business Rates? If not why not? If so then they must feel they are throwing money away. 

What do you think? I'd love to get a response or a Council reply. Come on folks sitting out is for the weak. Lets get strong together and get the action needed today. Your support is needed now.

It seems that the new Coastal complex will be an oasis in a sea of despair.

Book tickets to see Cappuchino Girls at the Evening Post Theatre in the Coastal Complex on the High Street for an experience that is just something difference. Support local talent

SEE THE NEXT POSTING FOR MORE INFORMATION

Bringing Life Back into Swansea City

With the way that Swansea has been ripped apart to make way for the bendy buses, constant roadworks particularly along Oystermouth Road, the out of town shopping centres, run-down High Street, number of empty retail units, low cost of going to Cardiff, the apparent anti-trader attitude and stance by the local council with what appears to be an enormous number of enforcement officers who seem intent on stopping traders trading it seems that there are many obstacles preventing the City Centre from having the bustling profitable activity that swansea deserves.

It is good to see that the railway station has been refurbished recently but surprisingly that the exterior wasn't cleaned when the building was apparently clad in scaffolding. Surely this wouldn't have been a huge expense: it would certainly have made the building look attractive. 

The railway station is one of the two gateways for foot visitors and deserves to be welcoming. It currently looks so drab.

On leaving the railway station there is then a walk into the city centre, probably along that run-down area of lower High Street, brightened only by the Grand Hotel (which has recently been revitalised under new management) and First Call Coffee, who are alone in a long row iof empty retail units.

It is exactly 12 months since the Evening Post wrote "Swansea High Street is the worst entrance to a city centre in the United Kingdom and not even the ambitious regeneration project will solve the problems of the alcoholics, drug addicts and beggars. That is the shocking conclusion of traders on High Street following a three-day police crackdown which saw 50 people temporarily banned from the area for antisocial behaviour."

Chris Holley, Swansea Council leader, said at the time "We recognise that High Street is a key gateway into the city centre and that it leaves many people with their first impressions of Swansea. High Street was historically a bustling retail area and it's our goal to restore it to its former glory."

There are some lovely buildings that avoided the bombings in the forties but they have been so neglected that their real glory is being destroyed. All buildings look run-down and neglected. Surely a fast fix wouldn't be so expensive.

WE NEED SOME CREATIVE AND RADICAL IDEAS THAT CAN BE PUT INTO ACTION TODAY. NOT NEXT WEEK!

With unemployment running so high and schemes to re-train local people as painters and decorators, electricians, plumbers and other trades wouldn't it make sense to have some on-the-job training and just get this area painted. So the Council will foot the bill, but would that be bad? It would help get more people trained and give local people some pride: it would match in with the newly completed Coastal Creative Hub where the Evening Post Theatre has just opened it's doors to Mal Pope's Cappuchino Girls musical: it would welcome newcomers and would help deter some of those currently hanging out on the street. Add some hanging baskets, street furniture and look at the traffic patterns and you'll have a great gateway. The traffic is a huge problem with hold-ups in both directions chrning out more fumes than an army of smokers ever could. 

There is now talk of a Sunday street market possibly including stall-holders from the indoor market, a carboot area and local produce. This might be a good idea but how long will it take for crowds to start frequenting the street? Will the council feel the need to grab a fee from all stall-holders or will they see this as a bigger opportunity? Will their enforcement officers be out in force? I feel there need to be some relaxing here.

WE NEED SOME CREATIVE AND RADICAL IDEAS THAT CAN BE PT INTO ACTION TODAY. NOT NEXT WEEK!

At the other end of the High Street there is more activity but because it's a bit of a walk from Oxford Street footfall isn't has high as it could be. Perhaps some entertainment in the large pedestrian area by Slaters and Shaws, adjoining the Kingsway might change the footfall routes. 
 
THIS IS A GREAT OPEN SPACE THAT IS BEING OVERLOOKED. IT MIGHT ALSO HAVE AN IMPACT ON NEW LEASES IN THE SLATTER BUILDING!!!

Why not build a stage or at least have a pavement level stage area and have offer all buskers an opportunity to entertain. This could be like Covent Garden where all acts are auditioned and allocated a time each onday morning at 10am. This would ensure a high standard of act. Once again the council should not be looking at fees but at producing a focal point that would attract an audience. Not just singers and guitarists but dancers, classic singers, jugglers, clowns and comedians. Why not fit web cams and broadcast this on the web. This is already being done in other countries to great effect. It could be linked to the Giant Screen in Castle Square too so bringing in more spectators.

Take a look at this amazing video of street entertainment. We may not get such talent but who knows! There are great acts around and once running you might get people from across the UK

Now lets look at the existing buskers. Some are ok but others are just aweful. Wouldn't it be sensible to addition these guys Bring up the standard.And I know that Big Issue sellars are doing something positive and we should support them, especially this week to commemorate 50 years since John Bird founded the magazine but there just seems to be too many around town.

And why does it cost so much to give out leaflets in Swansea when it costs a fraction in other towns and cities. 8 months ago it cost £100 for 10 people giving out leaflets in Cardiff, £25 in Bristol, nothing in Newport and about £150 in Swansea, except charities and I guess the canvassers take a big percentage there. BIDS members get big concessions but have a business a mile out of the city centre and you get no concession. 

Surely BIDS could be doing more. They should be promoting the retailers. What are they funding? Taxi Marshals at night in Wind Street, anti graffetti gangs, litter or recycling collections - all of which should be council jobs I would have thought.

We need some action now. Take a train or bus to Cardiff and see how vital it is there. And it costs me just £2.50 return by Greyhond on my bus pass, about the same as a cup of coffee!!

WE NEED SOME CREATIVE AND RADICAL IDEAS THAT CAN BE PUT INTO ACTION TODAY. NOT NEXT WEEK!

Why isn't there a manned Tourist Information Kiosk by the Dragon Hotel? Or Oxford Street? Not a building but something small with people who know about the City and can give great advice. Why not a money-off voucher broadsheet being given away with all the offers available in the city?

The excuses about not enough money don't hold up. Get some low-cost and free ideas running.

Even the free parking is jinxed. Did you know you get up to an hour's free parking in the NCP carparks!  Well no. On Sunday it's not free but costs something like £3 for an hour. That isn't made very clear and I have talked to a couple of people who have been caught. So parking is free in the council car parks on Sundays but that isn't the issue. I feel it is misrepresentation.

I've had ideas that would make a difference like the on-line radio, the Local Business Loyalty Card and this on-line TV. All of these are proven ideas. But getting any reaction is like holding a burning match to an elephant's hide - nothing.

Staying positive is great when you can see something happening bt it doesn't appear to be. Let's make Swansea great again. Come on Council. alk is cheap. Get real. Get moving! Ct out the Cr*p! Stop worrying about enforcing and start encouraging.

COMMENTS ARE MOST WELCOME

Swansea Market film

Swansea Market celebrating 50 years

Elysium Gallery Bus Stop Cinema

Friday was the private viewing of Bus Stop Cinema, a collection of 12 short films chosen by the organisers as a represenation from the submitted entries.

I personally find some works of art and arty films difficult to understand. maybe I'm a pleb!! But I was pleasantly surprised to find a wide range of film that was, in the main, interesting and understandable. I was late by a few minutes so was unable to read the programme. And there wasn't a lights-up period between films to catch up. So that meant that I couldn't read the synopsys of each. Do you judge films on entertainment or information value? presentation? or do you look at the artist's notes to gain a perspective.  guess it's a bit of all these. 

In the end I found some films stood up on entertainment value whilst others I had to wait until the end of the Show to gain an insight. And maybe I'm impatient so I found some too long. The gallery was converted into a small blacked-out cinema for the event and a nice touch was the popcorn we were given. And supplied in cups went there wasn't that appalling rustle that you normally get. I missed the drinks before the show but there was an opportunity to take a glass afterwards and discuss the productions. 

I particularly liked Foto by Thomas Canning. Strong story and although it began with a stereotype character that was particularly necessary and actually enhanced the film for me. It was fast paced and full of twists and turns that had me wondering throughout. Interestingly this is Cannings debut as writer and director and he certainly pulled it off for me. In fact he has shown at several festivals and was awarded best thriller at the Limelight Film and Arts Awards in 2009. 

Jayne Wilson's All that Might Heart did tell a particular story that tied the film together when I read the synopsys at the end but I just enjoyed the images and music which gained pace, peaked and slowed down to the end leaving me feeling that this was a piece to relax through, and that I'd be happy to play in the background, just as I play music that I enjoy.

David Marchants's Love Boat was lively with plenty of action and although I didn't necessarily pick up on the writers inner thoughts and motivation I did feel that the story flowed well.

And my final selection is Downfall: Self Service Tills and Jaffa Cakes which had me suddenly sitting up and enjoying this humour that mocked the 20th century's most iconic monster: making him look ridiculous. The message came across within a few seconds and was well written so that the humour stayed tight and continuos.

I think you'll find that my selection probably tells you I'm a real pleb and do like films that are pacey and with a strong storyline. Go and take a look. Is my selection sound? Would you choose a completely different group?

It is brilliant to have the Elysium Gallery in town where artists of different disciplines can display and share their work. But of course without you popping in to see what is on then there is no point. Artists like us all like feed-back.  Well done guys.

The Elysium Gallery is open until Saturday 3rd September on Wednesday through til Friday afternoons 12 - 5pm. You can pop in a get a taste or sit through the show which consists of 12 short films with a total performance of an hour and a half. 

Comments are welcome.

Theatre is alive and ready to entertain you in Swansea this Week

Filming The Doll here in Swansea back in February went well and the editing is now on couurse again so watch out for the finished film. Two of the cast are performing in plays locally until Saturday so this is a great opportunity to enjoy great entertainment at either the Grand or Dylan Thomas Theatres. Why not take in both.

Michelle Morris is appearing at the Grand Theatre until Saturday in Ian Dickens Productions International Ltd present Jack Popplewell’s comedy thriller Busybody. The story centres on a meddlesome cleaning woman who keeps telling the cops how to mind their business and who steps forward with the right evidence in every pinch.

She lives in the basement of the office building she cleans and one night finds a body. By the time the police arrive, there is no body and no evidence. The wrong alarms are sent out, murdered men turn up alive, and the whole thing is chalked up to the cleaning woman’s imagination until. . .

Meanwhile Rob Stradling appears at the Dylan Thomas Theatre 

Date / Time: 17th - 20th August 19:30

Swansea Little Theatre is proud to present an hilarious new comedy. It will receive its World Premiere at the Dylan Thomas Theatre in August 2011. Written and directed by Dave Jenkins, his last play, “Welcome To The Neighbourhood” was a big hit at Swansea Little Theatre in August 2010.

Gareth Evans is 35, English and unlucky in love. After splitting from his latest girlfriend, he moves to Swansea looking for a brand new start. He has no choice but to move back in with his parents for a while, which brings along several problems of its own! After unwanted help from his family, he soon meets the girl of his dreams, a lovely Welsh girl named Bronwyn. But will her extremely patriotic Welsh Father be so impressed with his daughter’s decision to go out with a football loving Englishman!

This is a heart-warming, feelgood Wales based comedy that looks at what it means to be Welsh and what it can often mean to be English!

Go on. Get out and have an evening at the Theatre. 

Brighten up your garden with a rare treat

Plant and garden lovers will be in for a rare treat at the Botanical Gardens in Singleton Park this weekend. Walk or drive down to the entrance just below Sketty by the Zebra Crossing. Walk into the park and keep going straight ahead, bearing just slightly to the right. You'll come across what is to many people a secret garden. Stroll through and be delighted by the many palnts on display for this is where plants are grown on or from seed to be planted across the City. Some of the gardens are for staff only but there's sufficient to keep all gardeners interested for a couple of hours. Apart from the outside beds there are also the greenhouses.


This is a great place to take the kids too. Especially if you aren't a gardener because there are some real gems for them to see and often someone who can tell you more about a particular plant.

And this weekend sees the popular rare plant sale taking place on Sunday August 21 from 10am to 5pm.The rare plant sale is part of the Botanics in Bloom festival which runs throughout August.

Green fingered enthusiasts will get a chance to pick up a bargain and unusual additions to their gardens from the huge choice of plants available. The available plants will range from herbaceous perennials to herbs and fruit trees.The event also gives gardeners an opportunity to seek expert advice direct from the growers or from other keen gardeners.

Through Saturdays and Sundays in August the general plant sale takes place and is organised by the Friends of the Botanics.Saturdays plant sales are from 10am to 2pm and Sunday plant sales take place between 2pm and 5pm.

Steve Hopkins, Swansea Council Specialist Parks Manager, said: "Some of the finest nurseries in Wales are bringing their finest rare plants to the gardens this weekend and this gives keen gardeners an excellent chance to pick up a rare treat to brighten up their gardens."

As a bonus the Morriston Big Band will also be playing in the band stand and plenty of children's entertainment will be available to generate an excellent family atmosphere. If you havent attended one of these events then make this your first. I particularly like listening to the band and having a cup of tea with a slice of cake. A chance to relax and just enjoy the atmosphere. The Morriston Big Band recently went over to Disneyland and performed there. They have CD's available so you can support this band who have made such an impact at many events over the years.

Have a look at www.breatheswansea.com for more information or call 01792 205327.

Here is our new logo and name. We are now Swan TV. You can find us at www.swantv.com. Easy to read, easy to remember.

Our new logo is already being recognised around Swansea when our presenters are out and about wearing their new polo shirts and hoodies with the new logo splashed across the from and back. Yesterday we were in Castle Square and today walking through the Indoor Market. We were constantly asked about Swan TV.

These are now available as tee-shirts, hoodies and polos. Colours sky blue, pink, red and black, although we may change the colour range. Sizes small, medium, large and extra large. Each has a small breast logo on the front and a large logo on the back with "Crew" underneath as per the samples shown here.

This is an exciting time and you can be part of the project by wearing your Swan TV top around town. Our special prices

Tee-Shirts  £8.99
Polo Shirts £9.99
Hoodies £16.99





All prices exclude postage and packing
Available to order now on 07976 364681

Help make our market matter at celebration event

IT'S celebrating its 50th birthday this year after being rebuilt following the Swansea Blitz and now a major event is being held at Swansea Indoor Market later this week to help raise its profile.

The Making Markets Matter roadshow is coming to the city on Thursday August 18 between 10am and 4pm to help persuade the shopping public to savour the joys of the attraction.

The event is being held in collaboration with the National Market Traders Federation and will feature cookery demonstrations, free face-painting and a find a fruit treasure hunt.

It's one of many similar events being held across the UK this summer to help put the country's 1,400 markets on the map and show people why they matter.

The Making Markets Matter mascot Victor the Lion will be on hand to entertain children throughout the day and many of the 100 plus traders will be running special offers.

Presenters from the Wave will undertake a live radio broadcast between 10am and 2pm and other fun activities will include a voucher vault grabber and a Play Your Cards Right stall.

Joe Harrison, Chief Executive of the National Market Traders Federation, said: "Making Markets Matter is all about encouraging people to appreciate their local market and all it can offer. The Federation's road show is designed for the public to have a fun day whilst experiencing a great retail offer."

Have a look at www.swanseaindoormarket.co.uk for more information or call 01792 476370.

Though the days of huge landings of fish at the old docks are long gone, we are still blessed with a great choice of fishmongers, many of whom are to be found in the Swansea covered market. Each of these displays their own unique products as well as some of the more well known fish and shellfish.

One such fishmonger, occupying a corner plot on the main thoroughfare, is Coakley-Green. With a 150 year old pedigree, this business has become a local by-word for quality seafood and also does pretty well for a nationwide reputation. Opened in 1856, the original business was situated at No.1 Goat St., near the current location of the former David Evans’s building, but like much of the city centre was destroyed in the Blitz.  (www.swanseamarket.food-passion.co.uk). We are looking forward to returning to the market on Saturday where Adrian has promised us his usual weekend display of ice sculptures and giant fish. Watch this space for some fabulous photos and a forthcoming video about Swansea Market

The counter takes some time to prepare from being empty and we'll be rising early to follow Adrian through the day in his life. hat'll be an early one.

 Samphire is also known as sea asparagus is very slaty to the taste but this decreases with preparation and cooking. Blanching for a minute or so seems to be the trick.









The wonderful ice sculptures are made in amould that was specially created  for Adrian. They will last all day in the winter but melt very quicly duringt tyhe summmer. Fish is kept cool with constant ice being added to the counter. Adrian tells me that the ice maker is kept busy through the hot months.

 Here you see ice being sprinked over the counter area. The selection of fish is just so comprehensive to suit every pocket and palate. I took some white bait, fresh and of a good size. I must say that after being lightly shaken with seasoned flour they cooked quickly in hot oil to a crispy coating and where served with a spicy rice dish and salad were filling and healthy.  I recommend you visit the market and sample Adrians fish.



Watch out for the Swansea Market video coming shortly.

Toy Story in Castle Square

Castle Square Swansea presented Toy Story on the Giant Screen. The gardens were full of parents and children enjoying watching the film on a really sunny day. 

Fils will be shown over the next few weeks, every Wednesday at 2.30 so get your picnic packed and get the kids out in the fresh air for a fun packed afternoon

Our new logo and presenter

A big thank you to IMIGH UK for designing our logo and supplying printed polo shirts. We are now visible.

Here you see Allesandra, our new young presenter with Carol and below with Steve, the owners of Imigh who are backing us at Swan TV.

IMIGH UK has over 40 years experience in the manufacturing and personalising of garments. 

They are one of the few companies in the UK that locally manufactures Bespoke garments.

                                                                            For team wear, IMIGH UK is the right place to go.  Whether it is Rugby, Hockey, netball, Cricket, Soccer, Boxing or many other sports, they offer one-stop service for all your needs; team logo, numbers, names, even team caps.

And IMIGH UK now produce dance wear, either standard tops, leotards, hoodies and jackets but also personalised staage outfits to your design.

Everything with regards to the garments is kept in house, the Digitising, Artwork as much as possible in order to maintain high product quality and meet customers' deadlines. 
Now watch out for Allesandra who will be out and about talking to people in and around town. Watch out for her tomorrow near Marks & Spencer and BHS.

We will have a range of polo and tee-shirts, hoodies and baseball hats printed up with Swan TV with our new logo so if you want to support us and be ahead of the crowd watch for more details.

I've seen on Facebook that the new Cappuccino Girls show first week ticket deals may be p tomorrow or Friday. Watch out. And I'll try and keep yo updated.

The venue and style for this production look new and exciting.

Broken Britain

Here are a couple of poem by Ollie that is part of a CD I produced two years ago. Does it ring any bells?

If Dylan Thomas was around today!!

How would Dylan Thomas see Swansea today, nearly 100 years since his birth? And how would he be making his way? Would he be writing TV soap scripts? Would he be scrounging drinks off locals or tourists?

And how would he write about our city? As most of his writing was based on his experiences and observations what stories would he be writing? In his book The Artist as a Young Dog he writes about adventuures he had in the local park, on the local beaches and with his friends and relatives in and around both Swansea and Carmarthen. 

There are still tramps about and one might scare him into writing a modern The Hunchback in the Park. And after all the fountain is still there.

What's on Offer in Singleton park this month

Botanics in Bloom 2011

 

1 - 31 August, Singleton Botanical Gardens, Singleton park

We say with such huge open parks such as Singleton that Swansea has just about everything within walking distance (or at least a short bus ride) from beach, castle, shopping centre, open parkland, large indoor market, gardens, woodland and small urban villages.


Wherever we live we all say the same thing "Oh! I've never been there! or "Haven't been there since I was a kid!" With healthy living at the forefront of the search for a longer better life this is the opportunity to get some easy exercise and enjoy some interesting sights.


Singlton Park is full of surprises from the Sunday afternoon music, plants for sale, a perfect place to take the kids biking, a picnic or a simple stroll. t's agreat time to think things through in peace. And it's a fact that when you exercise yor brain becomes more creative. Don't beleive me? Get out to Singleton Park and discover nature and maybe your inner self too.

To contact the Dog Training call Liz Ellis on 01792 798962


Botanics in Bloom is celebrated every year throughout August when the Botanical Gardens in Singleton Park are in full bloom and at their most spectacular. 

During this time you can see many specimens of rare and exotic plants from all over the world, as well as more traditional plants. 

There will also be a variety of events including children's entertainment, brass band concerts, guided tours, workshops, demonstration and plant sales.

A visit to the gardens in August is a must so come along and join in with the fun activities and celebrate Botanics in Bloom.

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Main Programme of Events 

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Band Concerts:

Sundays 3.00pm – 5.00pm

Relax in the beautiful surroundings of the gardens whilst being entertained by some of Swansea's finest bands. 

7 Aug  City of Swansea concert band

14 Aug  Constellation Big Band

21 Aug Morriston Big band

28 Aug Swansea Accordion Orchestra

Free

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Children's activities:

Mondays 1pm - 4pm (excludes Bank Holiday),

Sundays 3pm - 5pm (includes Bank Holiday)

There are so many activities to keep the children happy.  Monday session includes arts & crafts, an entertainer and face painting.

Mondays - £ 0.50 all inclusive with entertainer (unfortunately we can't guarantee that every child will get their face painted due to time constraints)

Here are a list of children's entertainers that will be present every Monday throughout Botanics in Bloom and will be providing a range of activities and entertainment from magic shows and storytelling to clowns and glove puppets;

Monday 1 - Diamond Dust

Monday 8 - Mike Church

Monday 15 - Loopy Loo

Monday 22 - Mr Bubbles

Every Sunday - Free (arts & crafts and face painting)

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Guided tours of the gardens with slideshow:

Tuesdays and Thursdays 2.00pm – 4.00pm.*

A guided tour is a great way to explore the magnificent gardens and experience all they have to offer.  Guided tours for 10+ people can be arranged at £1.50 per person, which can be booked any time.

Adults £1.50, children £0.50

(*meet at main gate)

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Bird and wildlife slideshow and tours with an experienced wildlife guide:

Wednesdays 10.00am – 12noon.*

Discover the wonderful variety of birds and wildlife that live in the Botanical Gardens.  An experienced guide will take you to all the best spots to catch a glimpse of the gardens' inhabitants.

Adults £1.50, children £0.50

(*meet at Ty'r Blodau)

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 Workshops and demonstrations

 Wednesdays 2pm - 4pm

Have you ever wanted guidance on garden design? Or perhaps you would like to learn about growing vegetables? If so, there is bound to be something of interest for you at these workshops which incorpoarte many interesting topics.

Adults £1.50; children 50p (not suitable for very young children)

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Plant sales:Saturdays 10.00am – 2.00pm

The extremely popular plant sales, organised by the Friends of the Botanics, offer a great opportunity to purchase high quality, locally grown plants at competitive prices.

Free admission

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Rare plant sale
Sunday 21 August, 10am - 5pm

The rare plant sale will give you a chance to pick up something special for your home or garden.

Whats news in Swansea today?

Swansea stars of tomorrow take centre stage 

MORE than 20 talented children from Swansea schools have scooped places on a national stage recognising their performing talents.

The talented youngsters from Swansea Council have won places in top Welsh choirs and orchestras as well as dance and theatre groups.

The youngsters will be able to take up their places with some support of Swansea Council.

Mike Day, Cabinet Member for Education, said: "This is great news. Swansea has a wealth of musical and performing arts talent and the success of this latest group of young people proves that we are helping produce the next generation of Welsh stars.

"I would like to congratulate the young people, their teachers and their parents for all the hard work they've put in so far and wish them well for the future."

In all Swansea can now boast seven students in the National Youth Orchestra of Wales, eight in the National Youth Choir and Training Choir of Wales, three students in the National Youth Jazz Wales, two in National Youth Dance Wales, one student in the National Youth Theatre and another in National Brass Band of Wales.

In a letter to the Council Gareth Pierce, Chief Executive of the WJEC said: "This represents a significant achievement for these talented young people, their local teachers, local music/theatre and dance services and the unitary authority.

"WJEC expresses its thanks and appreciation to Swansea Council for its continuing support and for its high regard of National Youth Arts Wales activities, events and services."

We say that Swansea is certainly retaining it's well earned reputation for producing top rate young performers, many who are going on to careers in acting, dance and music. It is good to see that there is such an interest in subjects a school outside those that are purely academic. With such a wealth of talent of all ages we should all be taking advantage of the many productions and shows throughout Swansea. An opportunity to  forget the TV and slip into a world of imagination, suspense, excitement and glamour.

Libraries urge children to find their inner Dylan

BOOK experts say libraries are perfect places for children to seek inspiration and follow in the footsteps of Swansea's most famous son.

Swansea Council library bosses are urging children to enter the first ever Finding Dylan competition and make their own mark on the literary world.

The competition is now open and is aimed at all of Swansea's year six children who have just left primary school.

Children are asked to write an essay, poem or diary of no more than 1,000 words on any of the following subjects: My Summer, My Team, My Swansea or My Wales.

Swansea Council is behind the competition in association with the University of Wales Dylan Thomas Prize.

Steve Hardman, Swansea Council's Head of Library Services, said: "Children can use libraries as inspiration for their competition entries by accessing a variety of books, poems and information about Dylan Thomas as well as examples of his work.

"Our libraries also have seating areas where children can sit, think and write and we hope the competition will inspire children to think imaginatively about the place they live.

"Swansea is a very vibrant city and the themes of the competition allow children to base their writing around their own experiences. The competition also gives children the opportunity to base their story in fact or fiction and, if they need some inspiration, then their local library is a great place start."

Finding Dylan is being supported by Travel House and the winner will pick up a family break to Disneyland in Paris.

Entries can be submitted in hand-written or email form but must be in by September 5 this year.

A short-list will then be announced in mid-October before the winner is unveiled at a special ceremony on November 9.

Have a look at www.dylanthomasprize.com for application details.

We say with the age of screen based learning we should all encourage kids and teenagers to read more and to write too. Poetry and short story writing helps us communicate our feelings and gets the creative juices flowing. What is life about if you can't sit down with your children and worrk on something just that bit different. And I bet you will learn something about each other that you didn't know before. Give it a try

We'd love you to comment on these issues or any other.