THE latest community news from Penparcau.

Mothers’ Union

THE Mothers’ Union branch at St Anne’s Penparcau had a lot to celebrate on 9 August.

We were marking not only the 140th anniversary of the Mothers’ Union, but also the branch’s 60th anniversary which fell this year, and for good measure, in common with many other branches, they also celebrated the Queen’s 90th birthday. Her Majesty, as Patron of the Mothers’ Union, sent her good wishes for the occasion.

During the preceding week, there had been an exhibition in the church of memorabilia from the group’s 60 years, including many photographs from the time.

Local people came in throughout the week to browse down memory lane, and we must thank the Cambrian News for devoting a small news article to the exhibition the week before, so extending the reach of our publicity.

On 9 August itself, they began with a special service in the church, then sat down to high tea with all invited guests and friends in the Church Hall next door, a lovely spread prepared and served by our members - more than anyone could possibly eat!

They were joined by their last Diocesan president, Brenda Evans, and led by new president, Glenys Payne, who gave a lively address on membership. There was even one founder member present.

The many cards of congratulation were read out, including many from former presidents, as well as the Queen’s message. Three certificates of 40 years’ membership were given out, and concluded with the revealing – and sharing out! - of a special cake.

On 7 September they had a lively talk from Mererid Jones, who has the title of waste communications officer for Ceredigion County Council.

She goes round talking to schools and groups and the media about the Ceredigion’s recycling and waste management policies, and very good she is at it.

The public needs to be told about all this because it is only with the cooperation of everyone that the policy can achieve the best results, which benefit all of us. Landfill is no longer an option. Ceredigion is already achieving a recycling rate of about 50 per cent of the collected waste, but is pushed by government policies and by economics to press for ever-higher standards.

Mererid showed members what they collect, how it is processed, and how it can help to offset the cost of collection.

They found the details quite unexpectedly fascinating and learnt a lot. It’s very good to know what lies behind the bald information that Ceredigion is leading Wales in recycling, and to be reminded of the four Rs – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover, (the last of which means extracting useful energy).

This might seem an odd subject for the Mothers’ Union, but members are crucial in home management, and there was a very committed and intense discussion, which extended the meeting an extra hour.

Seniors Social Club

THE club resumed for its first meeting after the summer break on 6 September at the Neuadd Goffa Memorial Hall. The chair Cllr Lorrae Jones-Southgate was warmly welcomed after a long period of illness.

Lorrae thanked vice-chair Enid Welsh for all her hard work and the members who have remained loyal throughout this period.

A buffet, supplied by Chives of Aberystwyth, was enjoyed as well as a raffle and bingo. Lorrae gave members details and dates for forthcoming events, up to Christmas.

On 20 September a hot lunch was supplied by The Chip Box proprietor Mike Daniels. An enjoyable afternoon was again enjoyed with tea and cake to follow.

The vice-chair Enid Welsh reminded members that the next meeting on 4 October will be a surprise day trip arranged by Lorrae. As always, members will enjoy the comfort of a Mid Wales coach. All disabled or those whom have any difficulties are well accommodated on the adapted coaches provided.

Thanks were given to all those who assisted throughout the afternoon. The meeting came to a close with the singing of Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau.

An invitation is extended to all who wish to join this active and friendly club. We meet on a Tuesday fortnightly. You will receive a warm welcome and meet old and new friends of the community and surrounding areas. Contact Lorrae on 07968 196360 for any further information.

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