The Gnoll Estate Country Park in Neath is set within 230 acres and it was voted as the best picnic spot in Wales(2010) by the Warburtons National Picnic Awards. I have a season ticket, which is well worth it, and I try to get there in the early hours, around 7.30 am, as the light at that time is ideal for photography. So I was up with the lark on this Good Friday morning.

Have a look around, you will be amazed at the variety of wildlife among many other things to see. 

 Images and report by Mike Davies RDN photographer

PRESS RELEASE NPT

31 March 2021

In response to the Covid cluster of cases in the Neath Valley, residents are encouraged to adhere to important social distance / self-isolation rules and are advised to arrange an immediate test if they experience any symptoms new, even if not serious, which seems unusual to them or their child.

Coronavirus 

Although the number of cases across Wales has reduced sufficiently to allow the restrictions to be relaxed, the situation can change rapidly in a local area, from a few cases to many people. It is therefore important that we all continue to make the right choices – especially by not meeting indoors with people who do not live in the same household.

A number of cases in the Neath Valley cluster have been linked to young people congregating in groups, indoors and outdoors, particularly in the Resolven area.  

Current Welsh Government rules mean that 6 people from 2 households can meet outdoors, and they give us the opportunity to visit other parts of Wales. Outdoor activities organized for children are also opening again.

We can have real hope of changes like these after a harsh winter of constraints, but let’s not forget that this virus spreads very quickly if given the right opportunities.

This is especially true of the latest variants, and symptoms other than the three ‘classics’ are more frequently reported. As such, Swansea Bay University Health Board is now testing for a wider range of flu-like symptoms, which may include any or all of the following:

• myalgia (aching or aching muscles)
• extreme fatigue
• persistent headache
• running or full nose (unless symptomatic of hay fever known to the individual)
• sneezing continuously
• sore throat and / or crippled voice, shortness of breath or wheezing in the chest

Tests are also available for anyone who feels generally unwell who has been in contact with a known case of COVID-19; anyone who has new or different symptoms after a previous negative test; or anyone who has one or more of the three ‘classic’ coronavirus symptoms:

• fever
• persistent new cough
• or loss / change in the ability to taste and smell

People who had any of the classic or new symptoms and wanted a test should call 119 or order online: https://llyw.cymru/cael-pilot-coronafeirus-covid-19

As these are national contacts, you may be asked automatically for the three classic symptoms. However, choose either option: “your local council asked you to take a test” or “you are part of a government pilot project” to order your test.

You can also call 01639 862757 and speak to an operator who will order your test

A number of cases in the Neath Valley cluster have been linked to young people congregating in groups, indoors and outdoors, particularly in the Resolven area.  

Current Welsh Government rules mean that 6 people from 2 households can meet outdoors, and they give us the opportunity to visit other parts of Wales. Outdoor activities organized for children are also opening again.

We can have real hope of changes like these after a harsh winter of constraints, but let’s not forget that this virus spreads very quickly if given the right opportunities.

This is especially true of the latest variants, and symptoms other than the three ‘classics’ are more frequently reported. As such, Swansea Bay University Health Board is now testing for a wider range of flu-like symptoms, which may include any or all of the following:

• myalgia (aching or aching muscles)
• extreme fatigue
• persistent headache
• running or full nose (unless symptomatic of hay fever known to the individual)
• sneezing continuously
• sore throat and / or crippled voice, shortness of breath or wheezing in the chest

Tests are also available for anyone who feels generally unwell who has been in contact with a known case of COVID-19; anyone who has new or different symptoms after a previous negative test; or anyone who has one or more of the three ‘classic’ coronavirus symptoms:

• fever
• persistent new cough
• or loss / change in the ability to taste and smell

People who had any of the classic or new symptoms and wanted a test should call 119 or order online: https://llyw.cymru/cael-pilot-coronafeirus

As these are national contacts, you may be asked automatically for the three classic symptoms. However, choose either option: “your local council asked you to take a test” or “you are part of a government pilot project” to order your test.

You can also call 01639 862757 and speak to an operator who will order your test.

Press Release NPT

Turn around and look behind you when waiting for the bus home in the centre of Neath, and there it is-the best view from a bus station in the country, surely?

Victoria Gardens was opened to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee in 1897 and then officially opened as Victoria Gardens in 1898.  Several features from different parts of Neath have been brought together such as the Gorsedd Stones from the 1918 National Eisteddfod and the larger than life bronze statue of Howell Gwyn moved from in front of the Gwyn Hall

The bandstand in the centre of Victoria Gardens is the jewel in its crown.

It was a warm, blue sky day and people of all ages sang along and tapped their feet when Bill came on the stage. It was a wonderful afternoon.

We are hoping these days will come back soon.

Also, thanks to all the gardeners, there is always  a fantastic array of flowers throughout the season.

As always, at this time of the year, the daffodils beds brighten up  the day for us

 Report and Images by RDN photographer Mike Davies

Affordable Flats Available

RAILWAY TERRACE RESOLVEN

2 first floor single flats available for over 55’s

Contact: Aelwyd Housing Association

029 2048 1203

ADOPT A FLOWER BED

The Resolven based Bowls Clubs are extremely optimistic given the recent developments in the pandemic and the latest advice from Sport Wales and the Bowls Governing Bodies that there will be a meaningful 2021 bowling season, unlike 2020 – as previously reported.

The bowling green is open from 10a.m. each day between April and September and, if all goes to plan then friendlies and competitive matches will take place this season.

It is fortunate that there is a wonderful surround to the bowling green which was given to the Community by Col J E Vaughan. The huge Copper Birch tree in full leaf is one of the focal points of Resolven Park.

This year, the club and Community Council are offering the opportunity to adopt a flower bed that surround the green.

There are 9 in total, roughly 3m x 1m each and provide a great backdrop to the bowling green and community pavilion.

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There are basic tools available to use and we will make sure that free tea and coffee is readily available, maybe even cake if you are lucky.

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If you are interested in the flower beds adoption (only a couple of beds left) or some sponsorship options which are available then visit Resolven Bowls Club Facebook page or drop an email to resolvenbowls@gmail.com or contact Andrew Hopkins on 07960138287.

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