NEIGHBOURHOOD TALKS: A meeting was held on Friday, February 16, with council officers in attendance.

Discussions that took place were about highways and fly-tipping and a presentation was given by Sarah Fereday, from Waste Savers, reference the recycling. The times will be varied for each meeting to enable everyone to have a chance to attend, we have had a lunch-hour one and evening one over a period of time, and we now need to see the residents to bring their complaints to these meetings.

The members of Newport city council are there to answer any queries that you may have, so please make a note when the next meeting is arranged. Next meeting arranged for June 4.

LOCAL PARTNERSHIP BOARD: There is now a sub- group for environment and community safety. The next meeting will be Monday, April 23, at 2pm at the Duffryn Community Centre.

These meetings are open to the public should anyone wish to attend. Discussions have already taken place regarding Duffryn in Bloom, anti-social behaviour and fly-tipping that is ongoing in Tredegar Park Ward. There is also talk of a carnival/fun day in the autumn, anyone who wishes to be involved is welcome to come along or contact me on 01633817270.

KESTREL WAY RESIDENTS' ASSOCIATION were very sad to have to report the treasurer of this organisation Mrs Joan Whitcombe has sadly passed away The funeral took place on Friday 16th. February at St. Davids Church Maesglas .

The collection from friends and neighbours was used for the insertion of the death in the South Wales Argus, flowers sent and the balance sent to a charity which Joan would have wished. She will be sadly missed by children and adults alike due to her involvement in the street activities.

DUFFRYN IN BLOOM: We need help from each cul-de-sac to enable this to take off, it is hoped that gardens and front areas can be looked at and given a new lease of life. Can we get one or two people to be organisers of these areas and get people motivated to work and become community minded?

Jean Watkins