Read Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Summer issue online

Welcome to your Summer issue of Whitchurch and Llandaff Living.

It’s certainly been a few eventful months since our Spring issue was published back in March. Our lives have perhaps changed forever but we take some comfort in the constants of life. We hope that this Summer issue will bring you some source of continuity.

The global pandemic has touched all of our lives in so many different ways. For some, it’s been a time of grief. For many, it’s been a time of uncertainty and worry.

One thing that the pandemic has done is given us a new appreciation of the beauty that is on our doorstep. Nowhere has this been made more prominent than Whitchurch’s Northern Meadows, situated between Asda and Whitchurch Hospital. The beauty spot is currently earmarked for development in the next few years but residents have launched a campaign to save what’s become their sanctuary during the lockdown.

We also hear from several key workers from the community, who have worked while some of us were ordered to stay at home. These people have been instrumental in keeping our lives moving, even in the middle of a global pandemic.

Children also have their say about how the virus has impacted their lives as they try to adapt to a new way of living and learning.

One man who decided to do something positive with his free time is Joel Piacentini, a financial adviser who loves to create music. Joel set up his own online band with each member playing in isolation, and you can read about their performances that have been seen around the world.

Another person who has used their free time to good use is former Bishop of Llandaff pupil Samantha Brown, who decided to pack in her day job and travel the world as a digital nomad. She now works freelance from her camper van as she criss-crosses the globe.

Writing can help you express feelings and begin to come to terms with emotional trauma. If you’re feeling creative, we’ve put together a short guide that shows you how to pen a short story, whether it’s just for yourself or for publication.

Up in Taff’s Well, a new brotherhood has formed to help men in particular, with their physical and mental health. Run by a former commando, the Green Mile Movement aims to bring positivity to our area and beyond.

Our financial security is one thing that’s taken a hit these last few months, especially with the turmoil of the employment market. With that in mind, we’ve got some work-from-home ideas that you can get started on straight away. And there is no better time to prioritise our well-being so we’ve got some helpful tips for you.

Some familiar features return as Steve Nicholas takes a look at Whitchurch’s Merthyr Road through times gone by. Local gardener Kevin Revell is also on hand to show us how gardening can be a therapeutic activity that promotes wellbeing.

We do hope that you continue to stay safe during these summer months. We’ll be back in late September with our Autumn issue. Until then, take care and enjoy the summer sunshine.

Danielle and Patric

Editors