Newsletter If you have anything that would be informative or of interest that could be included in the newsletter, please send to Andrew or Carole Milne.          Email: Andrew   aamilne@hotmail.co.uk   Tel. 07903 084210 Email: Carole   carolemilne@hotmail.co.uk 2024 Pension Increase The Pension increase is 6.7%, payable from April 2024 Information available on the Narpo website https://narpo.org/september-cpi-released-2/ Also, information in the latest ‘New Horizons’ newsletter. The NARPO annual subscription will subsequently rise by the same percentage. The cost for 2024 will be £26.28p. Future Narpo events can be viewed on our Social Events page. Important - Personal Records Please ensure that you update your details e.g. change of address, circumstances, email, telephone, or mobile numbers.  Please also include D.O.B. of yourself and your partner/spouse and your wedding date to receive a card on special occasions! All your details are treated as confidential and will not be passed onto a third party.  If you wish to amend or check your records, please contact Swansea Narpo Secretary Phil Taylor: - Tel. 01792 842378 or email: - swansea@narpo.org ******************** BEST WISHES - On their Special Birthdays in the coming months: Keith Watkins – Mark Thomas – Paul Chapple – Keith Williams – Bryan Jenkins Tim Davies – Eryl Jones - Roger Burnell – Roger Parr – Jennie Scourfield  Lorna Williams - Wendy Cranswick – Anne Watkins – Linda Pascoe – Huw Evans Patricia Anthony – Franky Thomas – Dick Ashman – Viv Martin – Pauline Wynne-Hughes CONGRATULATIONS – On their Special Anniversary’s: Brian and Sheena Davies – David and Patricia White BEREAVEMENTS – Sincere condolences to the families of: Tudor Davies – Rita Pickard – Barbara Edwards - Bob James – Len Boyle Haydn Brown - Geraint Bale - Charlie Bevan NEW MEMBERS – Welcome to: Dudley Vyse  (Ret. DC 383) - Gordon Barclay (Ret. Met. Police.) Anne Overton (Ret. PC 3840) - Alan Russ (Ret. PC 1571) transferred from the Glamorgan branch - Ron John, (Ret. PS 106) Retired in 1988 a rejoining Narpo member. *********************** Welfare information ‘South wales police benevolent fund’ The fund is open to serving and retired officers. (narpo membership is not a requirement to benefit from the fund). The fund can provide monetary payments to assist with any form of financial hardship. For example, funeral expenses, alcohol / gambling addictions, rise of mortgage / fuel / food costs, divorce etc.  However, the applications will be means tested and will have to be approved by a benevolent fund management meeting. if you should have any such concerns and think the fund could benefit you, please contact. tony imlach (Swansea narpo welfare) tel; 01792 542999   Mob; 07876 356378 e-mail  a.imlach@ntlworld.com All communications and correspondence are dealt with in the strictest confidence. Tony imlach also wishes to inform members that there is the availability of free respite breaks for those suffering from dementia and serious ill health, applications to be submitted through swansea narpo to police mutual. “now living on your own? get a 25% reduction in your council tax” “receiving pip? claim for free vehicle excise duty (road tax)” “are you or someone in your home wheelchair bound? you can apply for a band lower in your council tax” ********************** Blue Light Card Many retired members will have obtained a Blue Light card.  They require renewing every two years.   For those of you that shop in Asda it is necessary to download an app on your mobile phone to enable you to participate in their Asda Rewards scheme which also includes any amount earned by the Blue Light Card.   However, on renewing your Blue Light card after two years have elapsed, your replacement card will have a different card number to the one registered with Asda.  As a result of this Asda will not recognise the new card and no discount will be given to be added to your account.  Any attempt to alter the number on the app of your phone will fail. You will need to phone Asda Services on 0800 9520101 and speak to a member of staff who will cancel your previous Blue Light Card.  You can then enter the new card number via the app on your phone, to enable the Blue Light Card to become active once more. Click here read more information or to register for a Blue Light card Just £4.99 for 2 years. *********************** ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A HOBBY OR OTHER INTEREST? Please get in touch if you know of an interest or activity that members could get involved in. POLICE BOWLS TEAM From Swansea NARPO colleague Gwyn Hughes, “I am looking at setting up a Bowls team for retired and serving officers in the summer of 2024.”  Potentially playing from Swansea Bowls Club, Bryn Road, Brynmill, on a Thursday, and entering the Private Rinks League in South West Wales. Please would any bowls players (of all standards) or those who would be interested in playing contact me on 07972080502 or email: gwynforhughes59@gmail.com  “Kind regards Gwynfor Hughes” DUNVANT MALE CHOIR --- RECRUITMENT CAMPAIGN Dunvant Choir Recruitment’s Officer is Huw Morris How can potential new members join the choir? Joining the choir is very simple.  I would advise readers to access the “Join us” page on the website;  www.dunvantchoir.wales/join-us  where potential new recruits can test their voice against a pre-recording of the four different voices.  There is also an online form which after submitting, the Recruitment Officer will make contact and explain the next stages.  Alternatively, potential new members can attend rehearsals at Ebenezer Chapel, Dunvant. The rehearsals take place every Monday and Wednesday 7.00pm – 9.00pm.  ********************** PLEASE BE ALERT REGARDING SCAMS My name is Adrian Lewis, I am currently employed by South Wales Police as a Financial Abuse Safeguarding Officer, within the Economic and Cyber Crime Unit.  Prior to this role I was a serving officer with South Wales Police, retiring from the force in February 2019. I started my role in April 2019 and am one of two FASO’S employed by South Wales Police, the other FASO being my colleague Susan John, who has been employed as a civilian for a number of years. Office Tel Number 01639 889125 Email: Adrian.Lewis2@south-wales.police.uk 07584 004224 Email: Susan.John2@south-wales.police.uk Tel: 07970 165813 Website - Takefive-stopfraud.org.uk Below are some helpful hints and tips on how to stay safe and not be a victim of Fraud. If you receive a call, email, text, or message on Facebook you are not expecting, your starting point should be that it is a fraud. If it seems too good to be true, it usually is!! Always check that the caller is who they say they are, even if they say they are from your bank or the police.  Inform them you will call back on a number you obtain from your bill or bank statement or a trusted website.  Be aware that fraudsters can keep the phone line open making you think you have rung the correct number, then giving away your details or transferring money into a fake account.  It is best to wait 5 minutes and if possible, use a different phone. ‘Genuine callers will understand and respect that you want to be careful.’ Verify and check any text messages, emails or Facebook messages you receive before replying do not click on any links before first ensuring they are genuine. Do you really know who you are sending your money to?  Are they genuinely who they say they are?  Check the legitimacy of the person, company or organisation before sending your money or sharing personal details.  If you are uncertain, speak to someone you can trust, a family member or friend, bank staff or do some research online. Tell your bank straight away: 1. If you don’t recognise or didn’t authorise a transaction that has gone out of your bank account or onto your credit card. 2. If your card or account security details have got into the wrong hands and you feel that somebody may have wrongfully gained access to your bank account. 3. If your mobile is lost or stolen and you are registered for mobile banking services. Note: Please select the following links in order to obtain even more information (PDF) docs. Scam and Fraud - - - - Scam contact details ******************* “Swansea Narpo do not promote or recommend any individual company and accept no responsibility for the quality and pricing offered with our advertisements.  It is up to the individual to compare quality and pricing against other similar establishments.”

******************** The Beast of Baglan In 2005, a 'Big Cat' was sighted by an off duty Policeman, whilst walking his dog. Wales on line published the story and interviewed Supt Cliff Filer. The Reporter for the news paper was Katie Bodinger, daughter of retired PC Simon Bodinger, Swansea. Cliff Filer has a degree in zoology and is an expert in the subject of big cats etc - all the information he gave was corroborated by the plaster caste of the footprint they had taken which confirmed it was a big cat and not domestic animal. Report by our very own Peter Hall who filmed the story for ITV Wales news and conducted interviews. 6th March 24 ********************** Information for all members from Narpo HQ, Wakefield. 1. Pension schemes update - Click here to read 2. Welfare survey - Transition into retirement. The feedback received will significantly contribute to our work on the Police Covenant and improve the resources we provide to Members. The survey is scheduled to conclude on the 25th of March 2024, and I would greatly appreciate your assistance in encouraging members to take part in this important initiative. Members can complete the form here The latest IPA Dec Newsletter can be downloaded from our website by selecting the following link. Denis Hunt 29th Dec 23 ******************* BEST WISHES - On their special birthdays in the coming months Caroline Rees – Shirley Balzano – Mary Jones – Roy Pascoe – Gareth Jones – Phil Davies -   Malcolm Arnall – Richard Trimmins – Ian Morris – Phil Davies – Graham Mill - Dianne Davoren - Linda Gills - Menna Hughes – Laurence Jones – Mike Williams - Mildred Davies – Cheryl Allsopp - Dennis Pritchard – Christopher Rees – Susan Rowe -  Phil Rees - Wayne Thomas – Mary Evans. CONGRATULATIONS – On their Special Anniversary Dave and Karen Brewer – Phillip and Cheryl Taylor – Roger and Barbara Bevan      BEREAVEMENTS – Our condolences to the families of Andrew Slade – Mike Watts – Glen Gwilym – Beryl Thomas - Peter Tovey – Keeron Jones - Jeff Evans (Iscoed Chambers) - Brian Hole (non-member “Magistrates Clerk” a regular visitor to the old Swansea Central during his lunch times) NEW MEMBERS – Welcome to:    Martin John (699) – Martin Phillips (2464) – John Richards (2550) –    Andrew Thomas (1231) – Gareth Madge OBE (retired Force solicitor) Data Protection We have reverted to our practice of mentioning Special Birthdays, Golden and Diamond Wedding Anniversaries. However we will no longer post details of a member’s hospitalisation, unless we have prior consent) but individual members can post it on our Facebook Group or colleagues on their behalf. PLEASE UPDATE YOUR DETAILS The Swansea branch of NARPO have a policy of acknowledging members and their spouse or partner's “Special birthdays” also their “Golden and Diamond wedding anniversaries.” For these occasions members will receive a card and a shopping voucher. Special birthdays are 65, 70, 80, 90, 100, and each birthday after that. If it is your wish to be acknowledged in this way, you will need to inform our secretary Phil Taylor, of your date of birth and your spouse, partner’s date of birth and date of marriage. All information is confidential and treated as such, its only purpose will be for this reason. Inform our secretary Phil Taylor email: - swansea@narpo.org  or Telephone 01792 842378. Please also make sure, you update any changes of address or telephone number. (If you do not wish for your particular event to be mentioned in the Newsletter please inform our Sec Phil Taylor).   Call for help - PNC will celebrate 50 years of service in April 2024 We have been asked to support a request for information and any photographs, stories etc that will help the NPCC Lead for PNC/LEDS and were wondering if you or anyone in your network that would be in a position to help in relation to experience, knowledge or images etc.   PNC will reach 50 years of service next April… which we believe, and are currently liaising with Guinness Book of Records, that PNC is the longest, continuously running, computer software application in existence… Plans are underway to ensure a suitable celebration for this… To support this, we are looking for: Items of original PNC hardware – including terminals/monitors, keyboard units     Pictures / videos of early PNC usage     Stories / anecdotes of how PNC has either helped policing, and/or that are interesting/funny If you have any items that can be passed to us that would be greatly appreciated. The event is going to be held on April 25th 2024, so as you can imagine they need to collate the items/information early in the new year. Please email me any stories, images, or anything you think would be useful (or not) so we can collate the information and send it to the NPCC in one message. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your family a very happy Christmas and a blessed New Year.   Diolch/Thank you Melanie Thalayasingam South Wales Police Heritage Centre Email Melanie.Thalayasingam@south-wales.police.uk   ********************

Myself and Barrie Lewis attended at the Force HQ at Bridgend to take part in the annual Remembrance Service. It was very impressive and Barrie laid a poppy wreath at the Forces Cenotaph, on behalf of the Swansea branch. Phil Taylor. Friday 10th Nov 23 SWP 2023 Remembrance Day by Darren Thomas Photography. Dear Phil and Barrie, Thank you very much for your attendance today. Your support is really appreciated. Here is a link to photos of the event. Kind regards Gareth Madge 10th Nov 23

******************************

REUNION OF SOUTH WALES POLICE RFC
ON
FRIDAY 24th NOV 2023 AT BRIDGEND RFC

I am trying to get hold of some ex players and I am looking for help to get a message to them.
If anyone knows any of the below mentioned ex players /committee men to ask them
to contact me on 07307 854404

The list of ex players and committee men are as follows:-

1. Dave Griffiths Committee man.
2. Andy Macarthy Committee man
3. Dai Holt
4. David Benny Goodman
5. Nigel Tootle
6. Merion James
7. Gareth Bradley
8. Jeff Jenkins
9. Peter Thomas - Merthyr area ?
10. Chris Symons
11. Wayne Tucker
12. Harry Davies
13. Matthew Curtis
14. Steve Roderick
15. Gary Diamond
16. Dai Harrett
17. Neville Roberts
18. Andy and Paul Phillips.
19. Geoff Roberts.
20. Mike Trigg.
Many thanks for this.

Phil Noble - 8th Nov 23

********************

Annual Narpo Christmas market trip on Thursday 23rd November 2023 Circulated and republished on Facebook and Narpo website, not just to remind people of the trip but to also notify them of the pick up points & times. It is just a month away. I am suggesting leaving Bristol by 4.30pm, which will give people six hours there, more than enough time for everyone. I currently have 26 names, please let me know if you are attending, if you are not currently listed. Thanks Gareth Heatley 21st Oct 23 Located in the very heart of Bristol City Centre, the Christmas market is home to over 40 unique stalls where you’ll find an array of traders selling seasonal delights, crafts and unique items which are perfect for those hunting for that special Christmas gift. There will also be a wide range of delicious food available, from traditional Bratwurst to crepes, churros and plenty of sweet treats.Visitors can enjoy free entry to the market and experience a wide range of food and drinks whilst enjoying live music in the Jager Barn, all under the sparkling Christmas lights. In addition, Bristol Broadmead shopping centre has everything you need for the perfect Christmas shopping trip, with the usual well known high street shops. NARPO will cover the cost of the bus, you just have to get on it :-) Pick up points & times are as follows:- 1. Swansea city centre (Tesco’s) - be prepared to leave at 8.15am; 2. Felindre (former steel works site) - be prepared to leave at 8.40am; 3. Neath railway station- be prepared to leave at 9.00am. Bus is estimated to arrive at Bristol for 1030am. We will look to leave Bristol by 4.30pm. If you are interested and have yet to put your details forward, then please contact Gareth Heatley via Email: Gareth.heatley@talktalk.net or Tel no 07814 539693.   ****************** ************************ OLD NEWS Make the National Bus Passes UK Wide. I wanted to bring to your attention an important matter that was raised during the September NEC meeting by No 7 Region, regarding a petition to make the National Bus Passes UK wide. After further discussion with our LLA partners, we are circulating the petition, should Branches and members wish to get involved. Many thanks Kind Regards Sophie

 

Bowls Team We have received the below e-mail from our Narpo colleague, retired Sergeant Gwyn Hughes. If anyone is interested in playing bowls, please contact him. I'm looking at setting up a Bowls team for retired and serving officers. Potentially playing from Swansea Bowls Club on a Thursday and entering the Private Rinks League in South West Wales. Could you circulate please to any bowls players (of all standards) likely to be interested to contact me please. Email: gwynforhughes59@gmail.com 07972080502 Many thanks Phil Kind regards, Gwynfor Hughes 27th June 23 Unsolved Murder South Wales Police are conucting a review of the undetected murder of Muriel Drinkwater. Known as the 'Little Red Riding Hood' murder, is an unsolved 1946 child murder case from Wales. When I was working at ITV News I did an item on it for Crime Secrets.I used a psychic to see what information she would come up with - traced a woman who was a friend of Muriel and interviewed her.Here’s YouTube links in relation to the videos I produced - I have sent these to the review team in case it helps solve the crime.File 1 - Crime secrets File 2 - Phychic interview These photos have appeared in the press over the years. The photo of the search team shows PC Jones, father of retired PC Dick Jones of Pontardawe - his father was part of the search team and he is seated first on the left of the phot. They were having a break during a long days search. Peter Hall 25th April 2023 ******************** Update on ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING held on Thursday 20th April 2023 This months well attended coffee morning was combined with the AGM which was well attended as always. The AGM started at approximately 11am with Barrie Lewis being voted in as chairman as Brian DAVIES had to stand down due to ill health. Gareth Heatley was voted in as vice chairman whilst all the other positions remained the same. At the end of the meeting both Gerry COAD and I were both surprised to be awarded Life Membership of Narpo. I would like to thank everyone who was involved in organising this. It was a complete surprise, and very much appreciated. Also for the lovely flowers and card presented to Cheryl, my wife. Report by Phil Taylor and wife Cheryl. Photos mainly taken by Cheryl Video clip (unedited) by Jeff Davies Note: TO RESPECT PRIVACY OF MEMBERS - (PLEASE DO NOT SHARE THIS VIDEO CLIP) The 2023 Swansea NARPO AGM was held on Thursday 20th April at the Malthouse bar in the Grand Theatre Swansea.  The meeting was held on the same date as April’s coffee morning.  The coffee morning starts at 10.30 am and it is hoped we can start the AGM at 11.00am which should give everyone time to be served with a drink and settle down. There are a few important decisions to be made this year, the first being election of a chairman following the resignation of Brian Davies due to ill health. Barrie Lewis has stood in as Acting chairman for the last few months from his post of Vice Chairman. He is happy to carry on doing so, and will stand for election as such, but it will be up to the members present to vote to accept him. If there is any other nominations for the post a vote will be taken. Similarly, we also need to consider the post of Vice Chairman. We also would welcome someone who is prepared to stand as Social Secretary. At present Gerry Coad organises social lunches etc, but we do need someone to possibly assist him to do this and also plan future trips and outside events which at the moment are either managed by one of the committee or else not happening. Are you someone who would like to take on this role? If so let me know and this will be presented to the meeting. (This could be done in your absence if you are unable to attend the AGM). At the moment we have an active committee all of whom are prepared to continue, and their positions will be up for re-election. New members of the committee would be welcome, in particular members who are younger, or female would be welcome. If you would like to join the committee, please let me know, and I will ensure your name is put forward at the meeting. The AGM will also be a chance for you to raise any query you may have about the running of the branch. Questions may be asked at the meeting, but it would be desirable if such questions could be forwarded to me in advance so that I can ensure a full and honest reply can be made. The committee are looking forward to seeing as many members as possible at the AGM Phil Taylor, Secretary, Swansea Narpo 11th April SWANSEA NARPO COMMITTEE MEETING A committee meeting was held on Thursday 9th February 2023. One item on the agenda ‘Social events’ please make note of all the dates in the newsletter above, please come along and enjoy.   It was discussed that we need new committee members, ideally younger than present members, and also multi-cultural and female members would be welcome.   We recognise that several of our committee members are getting older, and although they are doing a splendid job, it would also be an opportunity for new committee members to be able to shadow posts, such as secretary, treasurer, welfare etc with a view to taking over that post in the future. If you are interested and would like to become a committee member or assist Swansea NARPO in anyway.  Please contact any Committee member or our Secretary, Phil Taylor Tel. 01792 842378, email  swansea@narpo.org The next committee meeting will be held on Thursday 27th April 2023. ******************** Note: Archived Coffee Morning Photos can be viewed here... Don't forget the monthly coffee morning which will be held this Thursday, 23rd March 2023, 10.30am at the Malthouse Bar, Grand Theatre, Swansea. It is always a popular event, so why not pop down and meet up with old friends and comrades, for a catch-up. Hope to see you there. Phil Taylor 21st March ******************** State pension increase confirmation... On Monday 20th February, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Mr John Glen, made a written statement to the House of Commons on public service pensions increase. Mr Glen stated that public service pensions will be "increased from 10 April 2023 by 10.1 %, in line with the annual increase in the Consumer Prices Index up to September 2022, except for those public service pensions which have been in payment for less than a year, which will receive a pro-rata increase." He noted that this was because "Legislation governing public service pensions in payment requires them to be increased annually by the same percentage as additional pensions (State Earnings Related Pension and State Second Pension. *********************** Another succesful and enjoyable Coffee morning, held at the Malthouse Bar, Grand Theatre, Swansea on Friday 24th April 2023. Thanks to our resident Photographer, Cheryl Taylor. Latest Photo slideshow can now be viewed here. Archived Coffee Morning Photo Slideshows can be viewed here... ****************** SWANSEA NARPO COMMITTEE MEETING A committee meeting was held on Thursday 9th February 2023. One item on the agenda ‘Social events’ please make note of all the dates in the newsletter above, please come along and enjoy.   It was discussed that we need new committee members, ideally younger than present members, and also multi-cultural and female members would be welcome.   We recognise that several of our committee members are getting older, and although they are doing a splendid job, it would also be an opportunity for new committee members to be able to shadow posts, such as secretary, treasurer, welfare etc with a view to taking over that post in the future. If you are interested and would like to become a committee member or assist Swansea NARPO in any way.  Please contact any Committee member or our Secretary, Phil Taylor Tel. 01792 842378, email  swansea@narpo.org Prospective NEW members please free to come along with no obligation. 28th Feb

Coffee morning - Just a reminder that the February coffee morning will be held this Friday 24th February 2023, at the Malthouse Bar, Grand Theatre, Swansea. It will start at 10.30am until 12.30pm. This will be the first coffee morning of the year so why not come along and meet up with old friends and colleagues for a cup of coffee/tea, a chat and a catch up on old times. We look forward to seeing you there. Phil Taylor Secretary, Photo slideshow can now be viewed right here. Coffee Morning dates agreed with the Grand theatre, to be held at the Malthouse Bar. All welcome. Further dates will be published later this year. Thurs 26th Jan (Cancelled due to no heating on premises) Friday 24th Feb Thurs 23rd Mar Thurs 20th April (AGM) Thurs 18th May Thurs 15th June Thurs 20th July Gerry Coad 5th Jan 2023   The cafe at the Grand is now fully operational and shown below is the menu. If any of our members wish to pre-order at our coffee mornings the their choices would be prepared for service at the end of the coffee morning. Obviously this would be at the members own expense.         Report on the appeal about widow(ers) Pension for Life campaign, unfortunately not a good result The Court of Appeal has now ruled against NARPO, stating that that the policy decision made by the Home Secretary not to retrospectively repeal Regulation C9 could, on balance, be justified. Please Click Here to read the full judgement. Click Here for the Press Release.  Kind Regards, Sophie  Marketing Manager Narpo.org 23rd Dec ***********************

The Narpo Christmas Lunch was held on Tuesday 13th December at the Norton House Hotel, Swansea. Photos can now be viewed here. A lovely Narpo Christmas lunch at Norton House. The food was delicious and nothing was too much trouble for the attentive staff . Thank you to Gerry Coad for arranging it, a perfect job as always and to Geri Wheeler for organising the raffle which was a great success with many happy recipients taking home a lovely prize. Cheryl Taylor Photographer. Thanks again Cheryl Jeff   Asda announces it will extend its 10% off offer for emergency workers with Blue Light Card until at least 31st March 2023. The discount is available in all Asda’s 635 stores across the UK and includes food and drink, George at Asda clothing and homeware, toys, gifts and optical. Blue Light card holders will receive the discount by presenting their own, valid, Blue Light card and ID (Driving Licence) at checkout. If you are not yet a member, you can apply for a card here: (£4.99 for 2 years access of exclusive offers at a huge range of Stores) ***************   Christmas Coffee Morning held on Friday 9th December 2022 Photographs courtesey of Cheryl Taylor ************************ Widows Pensions for Life campaign Press release from Narpo HQ can be viewed here Sophie Maxwell - Clayton (Maketing Manager) Phil Taylor 30th Nov 2022 ******************** Coffee Morning November 2022 - Photo album now live for all to view Another successful coffee morning at the Grand theatre, Malthouse bar today, it was one of the largest turnouts we’ve had so far! Note: Photo albums of previous Coffee mornings can now be viewed on the following dedicated page. Swansea Narpo was represented at the Remembrance Day Service held at Police Headquarters, Bridgend on Friday 11th November 2022. Barrie Lewis laid a poppy wreath at the force memorial; he was accompanied by Phil Taylor. University of St Andrews Covid-19 Research - received from Age Cymru. We are looking for participants (age over 60) to take part in a PhD (doctoral-level) research project at the University of St. Andrews and we would be grateful if you could spread the word about this opportunity to older people. Read more here (PDF file) Christmas Lunch reminder A reminder to one and all for our Narpo Christmas Lunch to be held at Norton House Hotel, Swansea on Tuesday 13th December. Details also posted on Facebook page... Photos of the event can now be viewed here Christmas Shopping trip to Gloucester This is planned for Saturday 19th November, and so far has had a good response. There are a few seat still available, so if you would like to join us for this trip to the Christmas market, just contact Barrie Lewis by text or phone on 07799 133565, or e mail him at barrielewis18@gmail.com Phil Taylor, Secretary, Swansea Narpo. Coffee morning dates October coffee morning will be held this Thursday 20th October at The Malthouse Bar, The Grand Theatre, Swansea, starting at 10.30am, until 12.30pm. Free coffee and teas, and also welsh cakes and biscuits. The last few months gathering have been very well attended, and have seen some new members coming along. So if you are one of the ones who have been thinking, I must go to the next one, take the plunge, we would be glad to see you. Join old friends and colleagues for a drink and a chat, and relive old times. Phil Taylor Oct coffee morning will be held on Thursday 20th October. Nov coffee morning will be held on Thursday 17th November . Dec coffee morning will be on FRIDAY 9th December as the pantomime rules out the usual date. Note: December 13th on a Tuesday will be the Xmas Lunch. Phil Taylor 9th Sept ***************** Our Chairman Brian Davies is in hospital -he underwent a successful heart op but has since suffered stroke at the moment losing the use of his left leg. He has consented to this posting and would love a phone call or text from any ex-colleagues etc tel number 07974 - 033040 to cheer him up. He is in good spirits and having Physio every day to get his leg working properly once again. He told me he would love a Pint of 'something' :-) Jeff Davies/Bryon Tucker 2nd September **************** Good Police work never forgotten Fiona my wife Fiona in her role as a Local Area Coordinator has been working with a remarkable 96 year gentleman Des living in Sandfields, Swansea. Approximately 50 years ago Des was a victim of robbery at his home in the Uplands, Swansea during which time he was hit over the head with a bottle by the assailant. The persons responsible were subsequently arrested by Wally Carey. Wally's kindness and consideration at the time and throughout has never been forgotten as can be seen in the attached video. Feel free to share this video wherever appropriate. We have the full consent of all parties to do so. Gwyn Hughes 22nd August 2022 ********************** August Coffee Morning Update - 22nd August - Photo Gallery now available... 15th August - Good evening, just a reminder that the August Narpo coffee morning will be held this Thursday, 18th August 2022, between 10.30am and 12.30pm at the usual place, The Footlights Bar, The Grand Theatre, Swansea. Come along and meet up with friends and ex colleagues, for a chat and reminise over old times, and battles fought! The tea and coffee is free, and hopefully we will also have a welshcake � � I hope to see you there. Phil Taylor (Swansea Narpo secretary) 15th August 4th August 22 - Click here to view photos - Thanks to Cheryl Taylor Summer Lunch reminder A quick reminder for those of you who haven't yet booked our Narpo Summer Lunch to be held on Wednesday 3rd August at the Norton House Hotel. The last date for bookings and menu selection is Tuesday 26th July. Please refer to your copy of the Newsletter for Gerry's home address. Latest Next Coffee morning was held on Thursday 16th June starting at 10.30am. Photos are now on Facebook - coming here later... NARPO CARDIFF BULLETIN 26/05/2022 NARPO TRAVEL INS - UPDATE : WIDOW'S PENSION FOR LIFE - UPDATE ++++MORE NARPO TRAVEL INSURANCE - UPDATE: We have now been supplied with detail of the NEW NARPO Travel Insurance. The document is too lengthy to publish here and also includes hyperlinks to other documents. For more information please go to the NEWSHEADLINES page located under the WELCOME menu of our website www.narpocardiff.com where the full information can be viewed. WIDOW'S / WIDOWER'S PENSION FOR LIFE - UPDATE: The following has been received from Wakefield: Circulated to NEC, Branch Secretaries and HQ Dear Colleague Today we received an email update from our legal team We have now received confirmation that Mr Justice Fordham’s Judgement on the legality of Regulation C9 of the Police Pensions Rules 1987 that affects so many of our members will be handed down in Court this Friday, 27th May at 10am. As soon as we receive the Approved Judgement a copy will be posted on our website This is also on our website- Paul Bryant - (Thanks Paul) Cardiff Narpo 26th May Swansea Narpo Golf Day The Swansea NARPO golf day is being held at Clyne Golf Club on Friday 10th June 2022. This will be our 6th year of running the event, which is growing in popularity year on year, 43 people played last year. The format for the day is a yellow tee stableford with a maximum handicap allowance of 28, which includes any slope adjustments. There will be a bacon roll and coffee on arrival, a two tee start in 3 balls. Followed by a one course meal when you come off the course. Prizes for top 3 scores, along with spot prizes for nearest the pins on par3’s, visit this link to view these holes. The day is being organised by Simon Merrick on behalf of the branch and I will be assisting him in the admin of it. If you would like to play, please forward your name, handicap, preferred playing partners (partners can’t be guaranteed but we will try) to either Simon or myself. Current list of participants - we are at 35 at the moment. See Swansea Narpo Facebook page for latest update or contact Warren or Simon. We have tee times for about 50 people. We will then run a reserve list. First tee time will be 09:45 last tee time 10:30. Warren Williams 25th April Cardiff & Vale NARPO Golf Day A golf day has been arranged for Friday 23rd September 2022 at Creigiau Golf Club, Llantwit Road, Creigiau, Cardiff CF15 9SL This is an 'Open Competition' with an invitation extended to members of other branches to participate The competition is being sponsored by Cardiff & Vale Narpo. The details of the competition will be :- 18 Stableford, playing handicap off the yellow tees with a maximum of 28. two divisions based on how many in each handicap category nearest the pin on one of the par 3's & nearest the pin 2nd shot on the 18th green. The prizes for this event are being provided with thanks to a donation from Cardiff & Vale NARPO For full details,and an application form which will download to your computer please go to the NEWSHEADLINES page of our website www.narpocardiff.com. The application form can also be downloaded from here. PAYMENT UPDATE: Payment can also be made using BACS, details as follows... Account number 81232908 Sort code 40-09-15 Note: Please use the players name & Narpo Golf as a 'Reference' Can you please send the completed application form to Graham Bartley either by post or email mentioning that payment has been made via BACS. Paul Bryant Cardiff Narpo 25th May 2022 May Coffee Morning UPDATE This morning, Thursday 19th May, Swansea Narpo held its monthly coffee morning at The Malthouse Bar, at The Grand Theatre, which was very well attended. We were treated to a surprise visit by the Swansea Grand group, Ambition. They were made up of Steve Balsamo, Christian Patterson and Michelle McTernan. Steve treated us to a song, and Christian gave us a reading of one of Dylan Thomas’s works. The audience were spellbound! Thank you Ambition, your surprise performance was greatly appreciated. Once again nothing was too much bother for the staff, and everyone left having enjoyed the gathering. 19th May - Photographs can now be viewed via our Coffee Morning page Just a reminder that the May Narpo coffee morning will take place this Thursday 19th May 2022, 10.30am, at the Malthouse Bar, at The Grand Theatre, Swansea. Everyone is welcome. Come along and meet old colleagues and friends, have a cup of tea or coffee and reminise over old times. I hope to see you there. Phil Taylor Thank you to Vera Last week at our AGM you will have probably seen that we took the opportunity of officially presenting Bryon Tucker with his Life Membership certificate. However we were foiled with our intention of presenting his wife Vera with some recognition for her years of preparing, beautiful hand made cards to assist Bryon in his duties of Welfare Officer. It is believed over the years she had made about 1000 cards. However Vera was not fit enough to attend the AGM, so I made a visit to the Tucker household to present Vera with flowers as a thank you for all she has done for Swansea Narpo. Thank you once again, Vera. Phil Taylor Sec 2nd May 2022   *********************** Update from Sec. Phil Taylor This afternoon (Thursday 21st April) the Swansea branch of Narpo held its first AGM since 2019, at The Malthouse Bar, at The Grand Theatre. It was well attended, and finally gave us the opportunity to present BRYON TUCKER with his life membership certificate. Afterwards we all enjoyed an afternoon tea.Thank you to Gerry for arranging it and the staff at the Grand for their excellent service . Notice of Annual General Meeting on Thursday 21st April, 2022 The Swansea NARPO - AGM was held at the Malthouse in the Grand Theatre, Swansea 'our usual venue' for Coffee Mornings on Thursday 21st April 2022 at 2pm. Following the meeting, a sumptious 'afternoon tea' was served to all those attending. Thanks to Cheryl Taylor, our resident photographer for taking photos which can now be viewed here. ************************** Ukraine Crisis - Former retired Police Sergeant Ray Harries (Gorseinon) providing humanitarian suppport. Following email received from Ray Harries on 22nd March - self explanatory. We hope to invite Ray to contribute 'live' to this page. Hi, my name is Ray Harries, I am a 70 year old retired Police Sergeant (1353) in the South Wales Constabulary. My friend, Paul James, is a 55 year old Occupational Health Worker, employed by Howell Dda NHS Community Mental Health Team, as an Occupational Therapy Support Worker, currently based in Llanelli (good old Saucepan country.) We have been friends for many years, having first made acquaintances at a local Buddhist Centre in Uplands, Swansea. We have decided to team up, and have already made full arrangements, to freely offer our love, help, and services in the Ukrainian Crisis and will be travelling to Lublin, Poland - situated on the Ukrainian border -on Saturday, 2nd April, 2022 to provide all we can and are able to of ourselves. We are in liaison with various charitable and humanitarian organisations, especially the Polish Red Cross, with whom we anticipate working together. Paul and me also hope to bring some encouragement and happiness to the poor unfortunate people of Ukraine; though we are well aware that this may not always be easy. Finally, please allow me on behalf of us all to thank you for taking the time to both read and consider our request for publication. We would also heartily encourage donations - monetarily and otherwise - to all the various charities; especially the Red Cross Poland, and ‘Family For Every Child’ Charity - Ukraine Children in Crisis Appeal (info@familyforeverychild.org) (tel no: 02077492490) though we respect all charitable and humanitarian organisations for their great and unstinted contributions at this supremely difficult time - and have no favourites as such. We rejoice in all who help the people of Ukraine during this reprehensible act of terrible aggression against them. Yours most sincerely and respectfully, on behalf of us all, Raymonde J. Harries, The following photographs are a few of some of our Ukrainian Friends (names accompanied thereon) - Ollia and Julia are the most loving-hearted sisters anyone could ever meet, and Illia is Ollia’s son. How very very sad that their happy, joyful, fun loving faces of former times is so far removed from their present reality. Ollia and her son have managed to escape to Poland and are presently staying with family in Markzeuin in Deutschland/Germany; sadly, Julia remains (at the time of sending this request) in her home in Lviv, together with her boyfriend Roman. Two photos: one of me (I’m riding the Red Dragon of Wales); and one of my friend Paul (who went bicycling a bit off course on that particular occasion). Permission has been obtained from all persons concerned with a view to possible publication. Update from Ray on 10th April He is not on Facebook so is communicating with us via WhatsApp. Let me share this little heartbreaker. Whilst staying at a hostel in Kraków. I had the most blessed opportunity of meeting a mother and young daughter. I gave the little girl a small gift. Ten mins or so later she returns to the communal kitchen...she’s made a little something for me. Can you believe it? She hands.me a small drawing, in colour, of a red dragon on a green background, with the Ukrainian flag on the other side. I, along with others present, simply melted. They were refugees from Ukraine. May they know the joy of life once again - their hearts are full of love. It’s a most humbling honour to serve them as best I can. I’ll keep you posted. Ray 10th April 2022 Latest Travel Insurance Update From Towergate Circulated to the NEC, HQ, and all Branch Chairs and Secretaries. Good Afternoon, Please see the attached for the latest update from Towergate regarding travel insurance. For any queries regarding this, please contact Towergate directly on: 0800 389 7724. The announcement can also be found on our website: Wishing you a lovely weekend. Kind Regards Sophie Narpo HQ 8th April   We are currently looking to recruit matchday stewards at the Swansea City Stadium. Click here for further details Emma and Stephen Hughes (Narpo members) 19th March 2022 ************************ COFFEE MORNING’S AT THE MALTHOUSE NB. We now have a dedicated 'archived' page for Coffee Morning photographs. Coffee mornings at the Malthouse will continue in 2022 and are well attended and enjoyed. Swansea NARPO members enjoy the chance to meet old and new friends, catching up with colleagues, having a chat, remembering old times, stories, and tales.      NB. We will review the change of day from Friday to Thursday following the April AGM. There is also a slight change in the catering arrangements; whatever coffee is requested will be available at the expense of NARPO, whether it be Cappuccino, latte, filter, or instant together with biscuits and Welsh cakes. Tea will also be available if preferred. Phil Taylor Secretary, Swansea NARPO 19th March BEST WISHES - On their special birthdays in the coming months Caroline Rees – Shirley Balzano – Mary Jones – Roy Pascoe – Gareth Jones – Phil Davies -   Malcolm Arnall – Richard Trimmins – Ian Morris – Phil Davies – Graham Mill - Dianne Davoren - Linda Gills - Menna Hughes – Laurence Jones – Mike Williams - Mildred Davies – Cheryl Allsopp - Dennis Pritchard – Christopher Rees – Susan Rowe -  Phil Rees - Wayne Thomas – Mary Evans. CONGRATULATIONS – On their Special Anniversary Dave and Karen Brewer – Phillip and Cheryl Taylor – Roger and Barbara Bevan      BEREAVEMENTS – Our condolences to the families of Andrew Slade – Mike Watts – Glen Gwilym – Beryl Thomas - Peter Tovey – Keeron Jones - Jeff Evans (Iscoed Chambers) - Brian Hole (non-member “Magistrates Clerk” a regular visitor to the old Swansea Central during his lunch times) NEW MEMBERS – Welcome to:    Martin John (699) – Martin Phillips (2464) – John Richards (2550) –    Andrew Thomas (1231) – Gareth Madge OBE (retired Force solicitor) Data Protection We have reverted to our practice of mentioning Special Birthdays, Golden and Diamond Wedding Anniversaries. However we will no longer post details of a member’s hospitalisation, unless we have prior consent) but individual members can post it on our Facebook Group or colleagues on their behalf. PLEASE UPDATE YOUR DETAILS The Swansea branch of NARPO have a policy of acknowledging members and their spouse or partner's “Special birthdays” also their “Golden and Diamond wedding anniversaries.” For these occasions members will receive a card and a shopping voucher. Special birthdays are 65, 70, 80, 90, 100, and each birthday after that. If it is your wish to be acknowledged in this way, you will need to inform our secretary Phil Taylor, of your date of birth and your spouse, partner’s date of birth and date of marriage. All information is confidential and treated as such, its only purpose will be for this reason. Inform our secretary Phil Taylor email: - swansea@narpo.org  or Telephone 01792 842378. Please also make sure, you update any changes of address or telephone number. (If you do not wish for your particular event to be mentioned in the Newsletter please inform our Sec Phil Taylor). Next Committee meeting will be held at 3pm on Thursday 10th Feb 2022 at Cocket Police Station. Please contact any Committee Member or the Sec. Phil Taylor on Tel: 01792 842378 or by email Swansea@narpo.org  if you want any issue raised. NB. NEW Committee members are always welcome. We are always on the lookout for fresh younger blood! Important - The NEW Email address to contact Phil Taylor Sec. is now - swansea@narpo.org We are no longer using the Yahoo email address. NARPO email address compromised Important information from our Secretary, Phil Taylor. Many of you will be aware that the swanseanarpo@yahoo.co.uk email account was recently hacked.  It took the format of a series of emails, purporting to be from me, asking for help in purchasing vouchers on his behalf.  It is hoped no one was caught out by this scam. As a result, all emails from the Swansea NARPO secretary will now be sent out via swansea@narpo.org, which is an account supplied by NARPO head office, and in a format used nationally. Also, it is possible that some items such as email addresses, and emails were lost during this hack, so if anyone is expecting a reply from me or has not received any NARPO emails for a while then please contact me via the new email address so we can rectify the matter. This has been a wake-up call to remind us that we should all be using a strong password for our email accounts. A strong password should consist of at least 13 characters, and include upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters, and preferably nothing too personal to the user.   An example would be: - travel.21#£Insurance                                                               It is strongly advised that members, check their existing passwords, and if need be, change to a more secure one. Website contact details will be changed accordingly and further information has been included in our Winter Newsletter. Please contact Phil at the 'new' email address should you require further information. Phil Taylor Sec. December 2021 Newsletter – If you have anything that would be informative or of interest that could be included in the newsletter please forward to Andrew or Carole Milne.  Email: aamilne@hotmail.co.uk / carolemilne@hotmail.co.uk Murder: First on scene We have been approached by Tanita Mathews at Phoenix Television, who is interested in speaking with retired officers who have been the first to arrive at the scene of a murder. Phoenix Television is currently in production on a new TV documentary series commissioned by CBS Reality with the working title “Murder: First on Scene” to be broadcast later this year / early next year in the UK and Worldwide. The series is designed to reveal the dedicated role of professionals who work tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice. In particular, it will explore the specific processes used during police investigations from forensics to criminal psychology. We are looking to speak to members of NARPO who recall being the first/one of the first officers on a murder scene (from the year 2000 onwards) who would be willing to talk to us about their experiences so that we might potentially feature the case as part of the production. Please contact Assistant Producer Tanita Matthews on 07791779203 or Email: tanita.matthews@phoenixtelevision.co.uk. BLUE LIGHT CARD To remind you of this opportunity to benefit from genuine discounts.  This is a computer-based discount facility available to employees of emergency services and includes retired personnel such as ourselves.  You need to visit www.bluelightcard.co.uk to register and view what is available locally and nationally.  There are hundreds of on-line discounts you can purchase a Card for £4.99 which lasts for 2 years and can be used at participating checkouts.  A few of the local discounts presently available include Halfords - Lloyds Chemist – Hotpoint - Mobile phone companies and many coffee shops and restaurant’s. Committee Changes - a warm welcome to Carole and Andrew Milne, Terry Arnesen who have joined our Committee. Our Welfare Co-ordinator Bryon Tucker is relinquishing his various commitments which have been reallocated. Bereavements should be referred to Erika Fowler by email. Ill health should be referred to Carole and Andrew will produce the Newsletter.  Future Coffee Mornings will now be arranged by Gerry Coad. Contact Phil Taylor by Email swansea@narpo.org to obtain contact details for BOTH Erica and Carole. Erica will arrange for the Force Coffin Drape etc.  Welfare Matters Benevolent Fund Please be aware there is money available in the fund, for home improvements, for disabled members, this application is subject to means testing. However, there is also NON MEANS TESTED funding for a rehabilitation break to Flint House. Also, for unforeseen hospital admissions, which require travelling and overnight accommodation for family members. For further information, to establish if you are eligible to claim these allowances, please contact Erika Fowler - Welfare Officer (Request her email address from Phil Taylor - our welfare officer by email; erikafowler762@gmail.com. Any contact with Erika will be totally confidential. Advertising - Please note: 'Swansea Narpo' do not promote or recommend any individual company and accept no responsibility for the quality and pricing offered with our advertisements. It is up to the individual to compare quality and pricing against other similar establishments.