A day in the bay

And, once again, it actually didn't rain.

This time the happy throng set out for a visit to the fabulous national folk museum at St Fagans, followed by an afternoon exploring the delights and tastes of Cardiff Bay.

A morning spent in and around the magnificently restored buildings and tranquil grounds of the folk museum (I really think that it is one of the best living museums on this planet and something everyone in Wales should take pride in) was contrasted beautifully by the hustle and bustle found in the dynamic atmosphere of Cardiff Bay.

Some of the group found their way on a boat trip around the bay, some visiting the Norwegian church and others risking life and limb via dive-bomber attacks from seagulls as they enjoyed their tea and dainties on the top deck of the old lightship.

Never far from laughter or incident, a small platoon of the gang caused a stir when they went to visit the stunning Assembly building. Approaching the security gate like giggling schoolchildren, a commotion broke out when some of them had forgotten to remove their weapons. Or, as some would say, their manicure sets. I think they let them go, eventually.

Once again, for Uncle John Dixon and Dave Sadler, it was Mission Accomplished.

ON YER BIKE: Judging by the number of participants, this year's Gwent Cardiology Fund sponsored bike ride, setting out from Coleg Gwent, Nash Campus, on Sunday, September 16, was another huge success.

Reflecting just about all ages and physical abilities, the large gathering had come together with one common aim, to raise money to combat one of the UK's biggest killers. Money raised by the fund is used to provide vital lifesaving equipment to help victims of heart-related illness. They are currently helping to fund community responder units to provide quicker access to lifesaving equipment for victims of heart attacks.

Both serious cyclists and families just out for a gently Sunday morning bike ride did their bit, despite a howling wind, to help this fantastic cause. The smiling face of former HTV newsreader Steve Taylor looking every bit a "yellow jersey" contender summed up the day when he said: "This is a real fun event with a very serious purpose. No matter how hard the ride, none of us can work as hard at the Cardiology Fund team, who work tirelessly in the background to make events like this come together, they deserve our support. Have no doubt about it, money raised at events like this actually does save lives."

Organiser Josie Brett and the team were delighted by the turnout and the effort people are willing to make to support the Cardiology Fund. The money is still being collected and further donations would be greatly appreciated. Ring 234307.

DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARDS: Anyone watching the news or reading the national press would think that all our youngsters were hooligans and n'er do wells. Anyone who attended the Duke of Edinburgh Awards at the Riverfront would beg to differ. It was most pleasing to see the large representation of youngsters from our area taking part.

The theatre was packed to the rafters with smartly dressed, high-spirited youngsters, who had come not only to receive awards of their own but to congratulate their friends (and new friends) who had proved that they have what it takes to achieve one of the most prestigious youth awards on this planet.

You reap what you sow. To see so many youngsters and, yes, there were hundreds, standing in the limelight collecting their awards, as their friends and colleagues roared their support from the audience, was a sight and sound to treasure.

These youngsters did not get to the standard they have by being allowed to stand on street corners. They did it because adults who cared about them motivated them to get involved.

I and the many other councillors presenting awards felt proud of each and every youngster who walked across that stage and full of admiration for the scout and guide leaders, youth workers and army of mums and dads who sat quietly in the background totally unaware that they are the difference between these youngsters and those who fall by the wayside.

PARENT POWER: What does a head teacher do when faced with a homeless PTFA, a dilapidated building and no money? He rolls up his sleeves and asks a friendly, skilled and very generous parent to help. Step forward, Steve Windsor.

Faced with a estimate of over £7,000 for the repair of a disused outbuilding, St Patrick's School thought that the situation would be hopeless. Then a knight in shining armour turned up to save the day. Steve brought in a few of his mates and with a bit of elbow grease, gave the school a building fit for the knights of any court in the land.

The work has been completed thanks to Bailey Traditional Flat Roofing, Caerleon Scaffolding Services Ltd and Cardiff Flat Roofing Ltd.

The building now sports a new watertight roof and will be a fantastic asset to the school. Thanks Steve and everyone who gave of their time and resources to help out. It makes a huge difference to the wellbeing of the children fortunate enough to attend this fantastic school.