REVIEWS

The passing of the ABC cinema, Jun 11 -  A little late perhaps but  nevertheless the passing of the ABC/Cannon/Metro/City Cinema is worthy of recognition. The ABC was built right in the heart of Bridge Street on the site of the Lyceum Theatre which amazingly was demolished to make way for it in 1967. Originally, it was a single screen auditorium housing 1,320 seats.The ABC was converted to a three screen Complex in 1980. The main cinema now occupying the front section of the former auditorium, and the two smaller screens the rear part of the former auditorium. The origianl projection room remained and was able to serve the 3 cinemas by just repositioning the projectors. The ABC became the only remaining cinema in Newport after the closure of the Odeon in 1981 and Studios 1 and 2 in 1986. It changed its guises many times, suffering the after-shock from the opening of the out of town multiplex in Spytty before giving up the ghost finally in April 2008. It was a brilliant place to see a big film in a crowded auditorium. Inevitably the competition took patrons away from it and the experience in an empty place was not what it was (it also lost some of its sound quality in later years). No one can describe it as a pretty or striking building but it holds many memories for Newportonians and others who savoured the  blockbuster cinema experience, an escape from the mundanity of provincial life. A fitting epitaph - work has now begun to transform it into a Travelodge Hotel!

Mango House,Mar 23 - Situated in Magor, this small curry house never fails to please you. It is now celebrating its sixth anniversary and has had a fabulous six years in business. Its tranquill ambience makes you feel totally at ease with soothing music and modern surroundings. The service is always top quality and at The Mango House , politeness is the key. We arrived at about 6 o' clock and were guided to our table straight away- despite the hustle and bustle. It was a sheek kebab to start (for a change ) which was succulent and juicy, just what it should be. The waiter also provided us with poppadoms and some creamy dips which you can expect (I, myself, are addicted to the coconut dip) . We then, were given the main course which was presented beautifully. It is served in seperate bowls to your dish so you can help yourself, or even try some of other people's curries. We also had an absolutely giant naan bread with the meal also. I ordered  chicken bhuna,which, may I say, was absolutely  gorgeous. The sauce was lovely (mmmmm creamy) , the chicken and peppers were emmaculately cooked and the presantation was without a fail. Other people on my table ordered ; chiken dopiaza (which was fab - I tried a bit!) and some Chilli curry ( which was hot and spicy and made your tongue go wild!). We then asked for the bill which came with special Mango House chocolates and reasonably healthy lollipops! By Bubble 10/10

Bar Piazza, Mar 9 - Newport's best lunchtime coffee house located on the corner of John Frost Square. It boasts a regular and loyal clientele including shoppers, city centre workers and Newport's Italian community. For more than five years it has built up an excellent trade in a competitive environment against Caffe Nero, Zoo, Coffee 1, Starbucks and M&S but has consistently provided high quality sandwiches and baguettes and serves the best coffeeo around. Today we had two super bacon, mozzarella and tomato baguettes , cappucinos and soft drinks. I have never tried the cakes here (I think they are Gemelli's, come to think of it must take a trip to Gemellis for lunch). We had to wait for a table as the place was buzzing despite the chilly weather. The service was excellent despite the buzz. 9/10

The Chandlery, Mar 2 - Newport's only Bib Gourmand restaurant made a good start to its Sunday lunch offering on Mothering Sunday. Our party of five enjoyed an excellent Sunday lunch. Starters included smoked salmon, mushroom soup, melon and fried camembert. Main course was an superbly cooked sirloin of beef with yorkshires and assorted vegetables. Two bottles of Aresti Montemar Merlot accompanied the meal. Chocolate tart, rhubarb crumble and cheese platters with a glass of Taylor's port rounded off a very good meal. On a particularly busy day with the restaurant packed to the rafters the service was slightly below its normal high standards. We will defintely be back for Sunday lunch. 9/10.

Waterloo Hotel, Feb 10 - Newport's Sunday lunch trade will never be the same again as restaurant heavyweights the Waterloo and Chandlery join battle over the next few weeks. The Waterloo was first out of the blocks starting last week, the Chandlery joins the fray from March 2. We made it to Bob Evans and his team this week and it must be said it was a highly impressive performance. The food was consistently excellent. Our table for four started with a lovely rustic leek and potato soup, creamy moules marinere and melon/peach schnapps (times two). We all had melt in the mouth sirloin  of beef with yorkshire pud for main course with an excellent  selection of veg. I started  off by drinking a  'tidy' pint or two of Brains smooth but we had a  nothing more than satisfactory house merlot with the meal. It was all rounded off with coffees and superb desserts, two apple pie and clotted cream and two outstanding sherry trifles. The service was also timely and unfussy. A truly splendid Sunday lunch and drinks, £99 all in. We are at the Chandlery on March 2 to check out the competition, this will take some beating. 9.5/10

Wilkinsons, Kingsway, Jan 12 - Strange to review a retail store I know but Newport's renaissance as a shopping centre began on Jan 7 with the opening of an outstanding 55,000 sq foot Wilkinsons in the Kingsway Centre. One of the biggest Wilkinsons stores in the country the store sells a huge range of products from pet food and groceries to furniture and homeware. It comprises two levels including a large lower level cafe area. On the evidence of Saturday the store is sure to revitalise the Kingsway Centre encouraging new names to sign up to the mall and to bring new interest to this area of the City. The stores that follow may be more lavish or up-market but Wilkinsons must be given credit for starting the whole thing off with such confidence.

Villa Dino, Maindee, Jan 5 - Five of us for dinner at Villa Dino's on post Xmas Saturday evening. Have not been here for a year or two. Slighly musty smell as we walked in. Lovely modern bar seating area (restaurant area could do with similar update). However, the service throughout was fine and the food excellent. Garlic king prawns for starter were nicely cooked, another of our party had an excellent tortellini. Main courses include chicken / fillet steak some accompanied by pepper sauce and spaghetti bolognese. All pretty standard but beautifully done, the accompanying vegetables were superb. A good house red (barolo?) and some splendid desserts. All in all, a very good meal. 9/10 RD 

Leo's Fish Bar, Caerleon Road Dec 20 - Caerleon Road has two good chip shops, Alonzi's and Leo's. Both provide excellent fayre but the more modern Leo's has superb fluffy chips and perfectly cooked fresh fish and thin, light batter and is marginally our favourite. 9/10 RD 

China, China - Bridge Street, Oct 28 - Chinese chain restaurant China,China has opened its first outlet in Newport at the corner of Bridge Street and Station Street next to the City Cinema. The restaurant covers a huge space seating with well over 130 covers and even on a Sunday afternoon was proving a popular attraction. For £5.99 it offers an eat as much as you like buffet. The buffet was freshly cooked offering a wide array of Chinese dishes supplemented by dishes for children. You can put together your own menu as soup, starters, main dishes and desserts are all available to choose from. There is a probably a method to this but we dismissed the soup and went straight for the mains. We all had second helpings and then finished off with cheesecake and soft scoop ice cream. The food quality was good and the service slightly intrusive but very attentive. With drinks for three including soft drinks and coffee it came to £29! I have a feeling this is going to become a favourite destination in the Port and will probably bring out the Homer Simpson in some city residents. It is a challenge to 'eat as much as you like' after all. 7.5/10 RD

Palmyra Gibson - September 28 -  A 78 year old woman originally from Newport has caught the eye of the New Jersey Herald in the United States. Palmyra Gibson was performing at the back cabaret of a theatre in West 46th Street in Manhattan. She sang a suite of love songs from the 1930's to the present day accompanied by a pianist. She left Newport when she was 16 travelling with her family on the QE2. "We were on strict rations, and we all worked. There was no such thing as mops in those days, and you had to scrub on your hands and knees with a heavy brush. I would sing while we worked, and my brothers and sisters would say, 'Oh, there's a bird in the house!' I was very grateful that we all made it through, that I could come to America." She said she would love to see her homeland again. The playbill outside theatre currently showing Don't Tell Mama advertised "An Evening With Palmyra" and promises love songs from the 1930s to the present, celebrated standards by, among others, Cole Porter, Hammerstein and Kern, George Gershwin, Kurt Weill, Michel Legrand and Anthony Newley. She says she dreamed, through all the years, of finding a wider audience again. "My main object here, tonight," she says, "is to finish my life with music. It's not about the fame or the money. When God says it's over, Palmyra, it's over. So I told my son I would like to do it again after putting it away a long time." See the review here - more information about Palmyra Gibson to follow.

The Waterloo Hotel and Bistro - August 20 - A last minute decision to go for lunch proved extremely worthwhile. The Waterloo Hotel and Bistro has set Newport's unfashionable dockland area alight in recent months. The building has been restored to former glories and owner Bob Evans has transformed the old public bar into a relaxing and spacious restaurant. The building also includes conference facilities and twenty one individually designed hotel rooms. To our delight as we entered we were greeted by Gethin, former maitre d'host at the Chandlery. He started work at the Waterloo only a week ago and I am sure will prove a valuable acquisition to their team. He was one of the reasons why the Chandlery became so well established so quickly in Newport. We spoke briefly to Sue Evans, her husband is the owner. She said that they were overwhelmed by the reaction to the restaurant although hotel business was a little slow. The food was fantastic. My wife started with an appetising fruit selection including melon and banana and mango sorbet. I had a delicious fresh gnocchi with parmesen. For main course with both selecting herb and dijon crusted lamb with gratin dauphinoise with an excellent selection of vegetables (although for some reason we were offered salad?). For dessert we both had glazed citrus tart with a superb raspberry sorbet. Good portions of food throughout with plenty of flavour. Washed down with Brains smooth, Merlot, sparkling water and coffees it came to £42. An excellent addition to Newport's restaurant scene this is a genuine challenger for top dog with the Chandlery. Car parking by the way is available in the forecourt of the Hotel. Bring on Sunday dinners! 9/10. RD

The Tempest - The Orangery, Tredegar House - July 21 - While people were 'Jumpin' in July' in the city centre, Newport's more sedate cultural calendar continued at Tredegar House. The gardens are the annual setting for Cwmpas Theatre's open air Shakespeare performance. Unfortunately, it rained throughout the performance. We were warned at the outset that the costumes (on hire from the Royal Shakespeare Company) were precious and there would be a stoppage if there was heavy rain. But it was not necessary. Remarkably, 200 or so hardy souls turned out to watch the event and enjoyed the performance. 'The Tempest' can be a difficult play to get right and so it proved last night. It started off slowly and only partly recovered by the end thanks mainly to some degenerate humour from a trio of Davies's playing Stefano, Trincula and Caliban. The cast came on the final curtain (so to speak) to the words of 'You'll Never Walk Alone' - 'when you walk through a storm, hold your head up high' - it seemed very appropriate given the conditions they had endured during the evening. RD

Children's Academy of Stage Training, Riverfront Theatre - July 14 - The Riverfront Theatre reverberated to songs from musicals and short pieces from plays as CAST put on their annual end of term show. The Academy conceived and run by Andrea Lewis and Jamie Jarvis goes from strength to strength. Three academies (one from Newport and two from Cardiff) joined together over two evenings at the Riverfront before packed audiences. There were some outstanding performances and routines, the Newport academy's performances of the songs 'Fame' and 'Another Suitcase in Another Hall' stealing the show. It serves to illustrate that from ages 4 to 16 we have some outstanding and talented performers in our two cities. RD 

Documenting our City, Newport Museum and Art Gallery - June 16 (exhibition runs until July 7) - About every twenty years or so the Museum opens up its considerable vault of work relating to the city of Newport. This exhibition charts work from the 18th century to contemporary times with depictions of the castle, bridges, places and industrial scenes. There are modern works by Falcon Hildred and paintings reflecting the Chartist uprising. In all over a hundred pieces of work are on display. I was drawn to an unfinished work Wartime in Newport (1940) by Stanley Lewis. When I asked why it was unfinished the curator advised that Lewis was painting master at the Art College and had fallen in love with a student. The College found out about the relationship and asked him to end it or leave. He took the latter option. He was subsequently called up in 1941 joining the Gloucester Regiment. After the war he and his wife (the student) lived in Carmarthenshire, Lewis was Principal of the Carmarthen School of Art until he retired in 1967. Newport Museum were gifted all Lewis's work from his time at the Art College and have a mighty impressive collection. Five years ago they unveiled this unfinished work and sought to trace Mr Lewis and his wife. Many thought he had died. The City Council tracked him down but he did not attend the unveiling because of the numbers likely to be there and his frailty (at the age of 96). Shortly afterwards he was collected by the Mayor's car and brought to see his painting after a break of 60 years. The publicity led to the rediscovery of his magnificent portfolio of work, in 2006 he was awarded the MBE for services to the arts, and now at 101 years of age he is currently working on an illustrated book of his wartime experiences.

Continental Market, Commercial Street - June 1 - A Continental Market brought a different atmosphere to Commercial Street last week. Approximately thirty stalls from across Europe did a good trade in fine weather. It was interesting to see Hungary and particularly Poland represented in the extensive market. I bought an apple cake from Brittany and two bottles of Polish booze including a Peach cider, one of those purchases you regret afterwards. The market was a fine addition to city for a few days and certainly brings in extra trade but does it detract from the fine produce also on sale in the Provisions Market? RD

Angus McBean Exhibition, National Museum and Art Gallery, Cardiff - April 29 - This is a captivating exhibition from the National Portrait Gallery of the photographic work of Angus McBean. It covers over forty years of quirky and magical portraiture, and for anyone with an interest in some of the icons of British theatre and film around the middle of the century should prove fascinating. There are portraits of Marlene Dietrich, Mae West, Katherine Hepburn and Vivienne Leigh amongst others. Leigh is featured in several portraits, obviously she was a favourite subject. The photograph's from the 1930's in particular capture McBean's interest in surrealism but it is still there as late as 1951 in the landmark portraiture of Audrey Hepburn with her face and shoulders emerging from sand posed amidst classical pillars. The exhibition also includes the later work of the Newbridge-born photographer as he returned to prominence in the 1970's and 1980's with a new generation of celebrity particularly in the music industry. There is also a glass case crammed with McBean's personally devised Christmas cards. The exhibition is on until 3rd June and is free courtesy of funding from the Welsh Assembly Government. 8/10 RD  

Newport Tennis Centre, International Sports Village - Apr 13 - An early morning visit for three of us to the Tennis Centre. We had the Courts to ourselves from 9-10 and were able to borrow an additional racket and balls at no extra charge, the fee for the Court was £9 (for Leisure Card holders you get a third off, must get one!). The indoor courts were in good condition and we had a fun hour, it was just a little disappointing that considering it is the school hols there were not other Newportonians there. We wrapped up after an hour as the youngsters started to arrive for tennis classes arranged as part of the Council's easter holiday programme. We sat in the pleasant and clean cafe area and had a coffee before visiting the viewing terrace for the regional pool before setting off home. We will definitely be back again. 8/10 RD 

Mark's Fish and Chip Shop, Somerton Road - Mar 30 - When it comes to fish and chip shops Newport is not exactly spoilt for choice. The venerable Vacaras continue to ply its trade from Llanarth Street to an appreciative audience, Alonzi's and Leo's on Caerleon Road are both a good standard, Maindee Fish Bar is also worth a visit but its opening hours are limited. Mark's Fish and Chip Shop is a welcome addition. In an awkward location between Cross Hands and the Somerton estate it seems from our visit on a Saturday evening that it is developing a good following. The shop is pleasingly old style with chalk boards and stainless steel counters. The fish is cooked fresh to order and Mark serves a wide range of pies and extras including mushy peas (always a good sign). We ordered three cod and chips. The cod was enormous but did have a little too much batter, the chips were tasty and crisp. A good first impression. 8/10 RD

Fratellis, Caerleon Road - Feb 3 - Fratellis has bulit an excellent reputation as a a high quality, family run restaurant. Unfortunately our visit there last night was something of a disappointment. I had an excellent starter - mussels with white wine and garlic, my wife had intensely flavoured and oily garlic mushroom dish. For main course she had lamb shank with mustard mash which had too much mash and very little liquor and I had a beef fillet with peppercorn sauce. The sauce was runny and flavourless and the vegetable accompaniement bland. To finish we had a poor cheese board - the selection of cheeses was too intensely flavoured with strong cheeses or cheeses combined with cranberry or chive. For wine we had a good bottle of Cava, I had an average house red with my steak and an excellent Taylors port with the cheese. Service was ok - the proprietor was particularly attentive and friendly. He was very receptive to comments about the main course and passed our comments to the chef. A disappointing meal was redeemed by his attitude to good service. I would urge him to look at the menu as the Italian cuisine seems to take second place to modern British or other non-Italian dishes. 5/10

Dragon Taxis, Newport Railway Station - all year - Eulogised by GLC as a Newport institution we have been using Dragon Taxis for years. They are without doubt an excellent company with a high level of reliability. Their taxis are numerous and clean and their drivers polite. There are other good companies in the Port but Dragon are the best of a good bunch. 10/10

Zoo Cafe - Station Street - Jan 27/Feb 2 - We have returned to Zoo on a couple of occasions since our review on December 8. On Jan 27 three of us had a good lunch from their very flexible menu in the bar's pleasant and relaxed non-smoking environment. On February 2 we returned for a cappucino. It was busy (at 2.45) the floor was not particularly clean and our table was not wiped until we were served. The bar is now open 8am until late and has a licence. The image of the bar is great but they need to ensure that they have sufficient staff to stop standards from slipping.  

Cinderella, pantomime at Riverfront Theatre - Dec 27 - Cinderalla has been playing to packed houses at the Riverfront and there was little wonder why from our attendance at the 5pm performance today. It is a hugely enjoyable and breezy production from the Boo and Hiss Company of my favourite pantomime. Prominent are Brian Hibbard and Lee Mengo as the ugly sisters played up as abrasive valley girls, Jacquelyn Kent is an innocent Cinderalla and Isla St. Clair is a glamorous and glittering fairy godmother. Barnaby is a superb and witty Buttons. Some of the singing was a bit mixed but on the whole the exuberance of the performance carries you along. The young dancers from local theatre companies and dance groups were excellent. And everyone had great fun including the audience. It is on at the Riverfront until January 6th. Recommended. RD

Tredegar House at Christmas - Dec 17 - Tredegar House is transformed in to a Victorian Christmas celebration for a few days every year prior to the great event. Over 5,000 are expected to attend the celebration this year. The Friends of Tredegar and others dress in traditional costumes throughout the House to welcome guests of all ages. Characters from Christmas Carol, musicians and storytellers are dotted around the many rooms. Mr Scrooge was played by a new actor this year and was particularly good. Goff Morgan, normally an awesome Mr Bumble, played Lord Tredegar and welcomed guests to the house. We were 'Lord and Lady Royal Oak'. Cook was as always the worse for sherry and we were all asked to make a wish near the Christmas pud. Guests are welcomed to a glass of mulled wine or juice with mince pies or biscuits in the courtyard before going off to see Santa in the stable buildings. Santa is a wonderful treat for the adults as well as the kids. He has the same routine every year but it is never tiresome. If you live in Newport or outside and you love Christmas do not miss this - it is one of the City's truest gems. RD

Zoo Cafe - Station Street - Dec 8 - Tucked away in Station Street between the Cambrian Centre Car Park and the City Cinema Zoo Cafe has been forging a reputation as the coolest cafe in the 'Port. We tried it today and were favourably impressed. The decor and ambience are pleasing, the environment is comfortable and has the benefit of being non-smoking. We had regular cappucinos, a caramel shortcake and an organic lemonade. The cappucino was superb. The menu offers a simple range of wraps, sandwiches, bagels and baguettes with the option to build your own. We did not have time to try the food but reports from others are very favourable. Apparently, the cafe has wireless internet access and a gaming area. It has now become a licensed establishment with a straighforward drinks menu of half a dozen wines (including champagne) and four bottled beers plus an array of soft and hot drinks. It opens from 7am - 11pm on Thursday - Saturday, 7am - 7pm Monday-Wednesday and 10am - 5pm on Sunday. It is brilliant place to chill out during the day and now offers the option of a relaxing evening out. RD 

Newport Rugby Club Christmas Event - Nov 24 - Mary Bennett in an effort to raise money for the Newport RFC players fund and the restoration of the memorial gates put together a lively Christmas event. She cajoled over 140 supporters to pay £20 for a dinner/dance in the Rodney Hall. The catering provided by the rugby club caterers was well organised and the food was fine. The vegetable accompaniement attracted some criticism but the general standard of the dinner was good, in particular the Xmas pud and brandy sauce. The main entertainment was provided by Ted Fallon (mostly rock and roll and the odd Irish song). The highlight being a 'Fields of Athenry' duet with Jean Buckley (previously performed at the Greyhound in Christchurch). The 'disco' was provided by the excellent Richie Donovan - he managed to squeeze the odd contemporary song (Scissor Sisters) in to the retro feel of the evening. MC was Dennis Bennett former Supporters Club Chair. The raffle organised by Mary and Sylvia Harris also raised a huge amount of money on the night. It was a pity there were not a few more players and directors there and was it necessary to thank them for being there at all? The Newport captain Dai Pattison briefly thanked everyone for their support and encouraged them to turn up in force for next Saturday's match against Neath. All in all, well done Mary for an excellent night in aid of Newport's greatest sporting institution. 

Newport on a Friday night - Sep 29 - Another rare event. The City Centre on a Friday night is allegedly the stuff of legends, high jinks, drunkeness and violence.  Footwear was my initial concern   - would I need to wear shoes or would a tidy pair of trainers be ok? I need not have worried - the shoes stayed firmly in   my wife's handbag. First   to Wetherspoon   on Cambrian Road where the low price revolution lives on. My wife had a bottle of Pinot Grigio for £7.99. A group of   20 or so   of us sat   near the front window as the batallions of valley girls and boys   marched along   the street from their taxis, buses   and lifts. Then on to the rather worryingly titled 'Skool Disco' at Yeats's. A small crowd at 8.30   became   much larger by 10.30 but in that time the old dancing feet were on the move despite the music (although I do remember Belinda Carlisle being played).   Next stop was the Chicago Rock Cafe (admission £3) where the bar was brimful and dancefloor disco   was crammed to overload. Bizarrely, Belinda Carlisle's 'Heaven is a Place on Earth' was played again. Finally, as the younger element fled to the queues of Escapade (formerly Zanzibar)   nearing the edge and worse for wear we gave the Cotton Club a go. It was £12 for eight of us. The upper bar was a blur of dry ice and balding men in open neck shirts. It was a noticeably older and smaller crowd but an ok bar. We headed for the Dragon Taxi rank and were home tucked up in bed by 2. It was a great night, good atmosphere and no trouble, well done the 'Port! RD      

Abergavenny Food Festival - Sep 17 -   This is a rare event in a superb location. The Food   Festival attracts a truly diverse array of local food producers pervaying their fine produce. It was our first visit but we will certainly be back. The streets of the old town   throng with sellers and visitors. For £4 admission (£1 children) you can visit   the cheese and wine   show,   the Market Hall, the Castle and the Priory on Monk Street. The cheese and wine show included a wealth of local/Welsh cheeses and wines (we purchased a particularly nice Caerphilly cheese). In the Market Hall and outside were all manner of foods to sample or buy - the stir fry and crepe stalls were doing a roaring trade (I had a wonderful King Prawn Curry for a fiver that I promptly spilt on my white shirt!). Glamorgan lamb burgers proved very tasty as did the Wye Valley Bitter. We   bought some freshly made lemonade in the Castle before taking full advantage of the excellent Waitrose   produce in the Priory. A marvellous afternoon, superbly organised and a credit to Abergavenny. RD      

Usk footbridge - Sep 16 - The City's new landmark has achieved something. It has opened with barely a whimper. It cost £5 million and it is a dominant structure its masts towering above the skyline of Newport. This morning it was pleasing to see so many people taking the opportunity to walk across including young children and their parents. There seemed to a genuine sense of pride (whisper it if you dare) that Newport may at last be coming out of the shadows. The City end   is a mess of regeneration works as the highways upgrade and Kingsway redevelopment continue. At the Rodney   Parade end the soon to be demolished Robert Price Builders Merchants has been covered in giant placards explaining the various developments promised.    

Sophia Gardens, Cardiff - international venue - Wednesday's one day international at Sophia Gardens provided ample evidence that the ground is not fit to be an international venue. The ground is predominantly made up of temporary seating with little or no cover. Entrance facilities are extremely limited and while the security arrangements were an inevitable delaying factor it is clear the entranceways are far too small for large crowds. The atmosphere was lacklustre as befits the team from over the border coming to play in Wales. The drink and eating facilities were not really tested as it was an extremely cold and damp evening. I had paid £45 for my ticket and had a restricted view but that's another matter. When you consider that established CRICKET grounds like Old Trafford have been denied an Ashes Test it is quite clear that the decision taken by the ECB is outrageous. Cardiff has a lot to do to improve the standard of Sophia Gardens. RD

Regional swimming pool, Spytty -   The swimming pool in the velodrome( I can't remember what it is called.)We arrived at the swimming pool about 2 o'clock (ish) on Monday   14th   August and it was absolutely PACKED with young scallywags. It is ok when the scallys give a bit of respect and let the people swim around a bit but they were messing around like something else and the lifeguards just stood there! You could hardly move! The pool was set out rather nicely with bright, vibrant colours in the changing room to follow. The changing rooms are open so if you are in the pool you can see the changing rooms which is handy really because you can see if anyone is trying to nick your stuff, although they have lockers, of course. At about half 2 the scallys started to come out of the pool (which was good because some of them were causing havoc) therefore we all could have a proper swim. If you want to go to the pool in the velodrome I would advise you to go either early in the morning or half 2 or later. Bubble

The Riverfront Theatre Cafe - AUG 5 - The Riverfront Theatre has made a major impact on the cultural life of Newport since it opened in October 2004. We have enjoyed several productions including Dial M for Murder, two pantomime performances and the CAST presentation of Bugsy Malone. It also has a particularly good cafe. We ventured there on Saturday where a   number of people were enjoying   lunchtime overlooking the Usk on a fine afternoon. I had an excellent   breakfast muffin of bacon, tomato and scrambled egg (£2.95) while my daughter had a tuna mayonnaise baguette (£2.50). With cappucinos and lemonades the total came to   less than £11 in clean, light and pleasant surroundings.   RD    

Bristol - AUG 2 - A visit to self proclaimed capital of the West Country. We took the train to Temple Meads from Newport and then joined the ferry service (a city river bus) linking the main city locations along the canal and into Bristol Docks. The thirty minute journey outlined the scale of the City's regeneration with hundreds of modern riverside apartments (many from Westmead - designer of Newport's riverside park) and a huge array of bars, restaurants and leisure/entertainment facilities. Adjoining this are educational facilities such as Explore@Bristol. The Broadmead Shopping Area is the subject of a £500 million redevelopment to be complete by 2008. The shopping centre was dealt a massive blow by the departure of John Lewis to Cribbs Causeway but it can boast two leading department stores and will expand significantly following the development. Bristol has successfully attracted a number of companies to set up their regional headquarters in the City (including HSBC and Lloyds TSB) in addition to its strong credentials in aerospace, engineering   and financial services and its earnings potential far exceeds any Welsh town or City.Bristol also successfully draws on its unique associations with Brunel, Cabot and its maritime prowess.   The impressive feature of the development in the City is its quality and unity. The City is being pulled together by the new development and will be an integrated force again. Hopefully, the Newport regeneration will have a similar unifying impact as it shares some of the same design characteristics - albeit several years behind and on a smaller scale.RD

Taming of the Shrew (Tredegar House) - JUL 21 - Now an integral part of Newport's summer the open air Shakespeare production in the orchard   is a wonderful colourful spectacle in beautiful surroundings. Last year we attended for the first time but did not realise that it made good sense to bring plentiful supplies of drinks including sparkling wine, nice buffet style food and fruit. This year we made amends. During the interval the audience can leave their covered canopy and sit in the peaceful enjoying their food and drink. The House offers a bar facility and ice cream is also available. Parking by the way is free and children are welcomed. Cwmpas Theatre's production of 'Taming of the Shrew' was hugely enjoyable. The key relationship in the play between the 'shrew' Katherina (played by Caroline Emanuel and her suitor Pettruchio (played by Matt Davies)   was superbly acted with great gusto and humour. Alun Davies was excellent as Pettruchio's servant Grumio. The production moved at a cracking pace and the audience were greatly involved and went away throughly happy   from a perfect summer's night at Tredegar House.

Children's Academy of Stage Training (Caerleon) - JUL 7 - The Children's Academy of Stage Training is a wonderful initiative developed by Andrea Lewis and Jamie Jarvis to cater for the latent urges of Newport children to become performers, actors, singers etc. Financially supported by fee-paying parents they work with children from 5 upwards to develop acting, singing and dancing skills.   The skills presentation yesterday evening at Caerleon Comp was evidence of the impact they have had on the children over the last twelve months. In particular, there were brilliant dance routines including a wonderful jive/rock and roll   routine and superb vocal performances. There was an enjoyable introductory routine including excerpt from 'Narnia' and 'Macbeth'. There is some extraordinary talent in our City. CAST now moves on to its summer school - with a final performance of 'Annie' at the Riverfront on August 12. RD  

Bar Piazza - John Frost Square, Newport - JUL 8 - Newport is blessed with good Italian restaurants and latterly coffee houses but none are better than Bar Piazza nestled in the corner of John Frost Square next to Wardrobe. It has a loyal and growing clientele including my family. Not only does it serve a range of coffees,   teas and drinks but also some wonderful baguettes. If you get a chance try their bacon, mozzarella and tomato.   It is child friendly with seating inside and outside and has been a real boon to John Frost Square. At the minute it is understandably festooned with Italian flags. The only downside - smokers. The smoking ban cannot come soon enough. RD

Pirates of the Carribean: Dead Man's Chest - JUL 6 - The second part of the Pirates trilogy has all the pace and humour of the first. Though it cannot match the originality of "Curse of the Black Pearl" it was a hugely enjoyable romp that had you sitting on the edge of your seats (although come on Cineworld those seats are getting itchy and a little threadbare these days!). Johnny Depp is outstanding as Captain Jack Sparrow but there are still prominent roles for Orland Bloom (Will Turner) and Keira Knightley (Elizabeth Swann). New characters include Bill Nighy (as Davy Jones) with a welcome appearance from Geoffrey Rush at the end of the movie. RD

The Chandlery, Lower Dock Street   - Lunch at one of Newport's finest restaurants on Friday afternoon. Despite the very warm weather there over 20 covers for the Chandlery's lunch time menu (the a la carte is also available). The restaurant has rightly built up a deserved reputation for good service and fine food. It was disappointing to note (as I have not been here for three months) that maitre d'host Gethin is no longer there. He was the public face of the restaurant   from its opening and was a large part of its success. Let's hope they have found a person of comparable quality in his replacement. I had warm breakfast salad to start with tasty black pudding, poached egg, strips of smoked bacon and lettuce. My wife had an excellent chorizo and monkfish kebab. To follow I had sausage, mash and onion gravy. The sausages were slightly underdone and there was a little too much liquor drowning the flavour of the mashed potato. My wife had penne with sundried tomatoes, goat's cheese and basil. This was a pleasing dish, full of flavour and very filling. To end we shared a dish of finely diced fruit salad.   It was a little too finely diced for me. With coffees and a lovely glass of Aresti Montemar it came to £37. RD    

The Mango House, Magor Square - Saturday evening at the Mango House would normally be busy but punters were pre-occupied with the World Cup quarter finals. By 9 we were the only ones in the restaurant. Normally, the lower and upper tiers would be thronged with diners. Our table of six started with chicken samosa, onion bhaji, chicken chat and sheek kebab.   The latter was mine. Beautifully cooked and spicy with a pleasing tenderness. For main courses there were a selection of dishes again including   baltis and chicken tikka accompanied by two massive peshwari naan breads. My chicken chilli balti was excellent, flavourful and without the colouring so often over-used in Indian/Bangladeshi cookery. A good but not outstanding meal with the emphasis on fresh ingredients.   There are few Indian restaurants above standard in this area, that's why the Mago House stands out. RD  

Newport Centre - Not so long ago Newport Centre's leisure facilities were in the news for the wrong reasons. A BBC children's programme characterised them as dirty and unhygienic. In 2005 they were given a significant overhaul with new unisex changing areas, private shower and changing areas and electronic lockers. The transformation in cleanliness and order in the swimming pool area is extraordinary. The facilities are now easily on a par with those at private leisure   complexes including family venues such as Center Parcs. The pool was in very good order when my daughter and I arrived on Sunday morning. There was a swimming lesson nearing completion when we got there.   There were a large number of parents with small children in the pool enjoying the atmosphere. The price was £5.55. But I could have saved 20% with a Newport Leisure Card. I am ordering one today! RD  

Caffe Nero - Bar Piazza in John Frost Square is our normal port of call for lunch in town. But for the second time in succession there was no room at the inn. We decided to head for the newest addition to Newport's growing coffee fraternity. A familiar high street face in the south east, Caffe Nero, opened recently in Commercial Street opposite Primark. The cafe is comfortable and airy. There is a range of paninis, sandwiches, cakes   and snacks available (including some pasta and soup). I had a very fresh tasting prawn sandwich, my wife had a slightly over toasted tomato/mozzarella panini and my daughter a fresh fruit salad. For drinks we had two regulation cappucinos (excellent to my taste, but a little too strong for my wife) and a passion fruit and peach smoothie. A pretty good lunch and all for £13. RD    

Bettws Chip Shop - I recently purchased a bag of chips from Bettws Chip Shop.   The Chips were very tasty and dry not like the usual greasy chips you can get from chip shops.   The price was very reasonable too.     I have bought chips from Bettws Chip Shop for many years and I can honestly say that the chips have always been to the utmost standard and have always kept the same quality and unique delicious taste.   The rest of the food and sauces which can you can purchase from chip shops are also to the same tasty standard.   Bettws Chip Shop is very clean and well looked after which you can see from the moment you walk through the door, the service is also very fast and efficient.   I highly recommend a try!!!! Shnuffles

Twm Barlwm - According to local tradition Good Friday was the day for Newportonians to take to the surrounding countryside. However, Whit   Sunday was the best we could do to entertain guests from London. They can now go back home and say proudly they climbed up a mountain when they came to Wales. We stopped at the car park at the beginning of Cwmcarn Forest Drive and took an hour and a half to ascend the side of Twm Barlwm via the Raven Walk. The ground underfoot was slightly slippy but not impossible. The final fifty metres made it all worthwhile. The panoramic views across Newport, the second Severn Crossing   and north towards the Black Mountains were spectacular even if the slight mistiness obscured a clear view of Cardiff's skyline. This walk definitely has the wow factor and thoroughly impressed our visitors. And the descent took slightly less than half an hour. We had a picnic by the small trout fishery run by Cwmcarn Angling Society. Admission is free at present. RD

Dr Who in the 'Port - The BBC's acclaimed revival of Dr Who has provided an additional attraction for those familiar with Newport. Two recent episodes - 'School Reunion' and 'Rise of the Cybermen' were centred upon the City. In 'School Reunion' Da Vinci's cafe, Belle Vue Park and the Old Post Office building featured prominently as did Duffryn High School (a vehicle demolishing its temporary front entrance). In 'Return of the Cybermen'   Newport bus station featured as a backdrop for .. London, the railway station featured at the end (with the 'welcome to Newport' sign visible) and the Riverfront and riverside doubled for London throughout. (See Billie Piper near the Riverfront theatre pic left - courtesy of the BBC). Apparently the Cyber manufacturing plant was partly situated in Newport docks and locations at Magor brewery and Uskmouth Power station were also used. Never mind the City locations the series is exemplary, brilliant entertainment and wonderful storytelling, superbly acted. Probably the best thing on tv. RD

Dewstow Golf Course (Park Course)

The newest of the 2 courses at Dewstow is considerably less loved than the classic Valley course yet out of the two I generally prefer playing the Park.

Hole 1 :   372 Yards Par 4   Challenging opening hole requiring two decent shots to get near green

Hole 2 :   328 Yards Par 4. Supposed easiest hole on course, par/birdie is attainable here, big hitters won’t be far from green off tee.

Hole 3 :   333 Yards Par 4.   Blind tee shot, almost identical uphill version of 2^nd hole with slight dogleg right.

Hole 4 :   403 Yards Par 4.   Lengthy par 4. Need to be on fairway to have a chance to get on in 2 here. 2^nd hardest hole on course.

Hole 5 :   370 Yards Par 4.   Beautiful hole. Giant tree to be negotiated along with a lake, lovely rolling downhill fairway.

Hole 6 :   170 Yards Par 3. Uphill straightforward par 3. Look for par here but take a club longer.

Hole 7 :   402 Yards Par 4. Another lovely inviting rolling fairway. Often find myself in trees on the left here. Bogey is good here.

Hole 8 : 193 Yards Par 3. Downhill longish par 3. Reachable with a good 5/6 iron. Again look for par here.

Hole 9 : 474 Yards Par 5. Hook off the tee could land on motorway here! Relatively straightforward with a hidden drop-down green at the end.

Hole 10 :   116 Yards Par 3. Shortest hole on course yet don’t be fooled. Many a man has found himself scurrying down the bank on right at a rate of knots.

Hole 11 :   342 Yards Par 4. Like holes 5 and 7 this hole is very easy on the eye. Mammoth tree must be negiotated in middle of fairway and a slightly elevated green.

Hole 12 :   130 Yards Par 3. Easy Par 3, should look for par here, the calm before the storm!!

Hole 13 :   570 Yards Par 5. Huge Par 5 can be played as a 695 yard Par 6 but I think that’s a little silly. 3 straight,long shots will get you close.

Hole 14 :   448 Yards Par 4. Supposed hardest hole on course. Can be played with ease if you avoid lake and trees on right and out of bounds on left.

Hole 15 :   403 Yards Par 4. Famous hole with the totem pole. Quite long but not too hard if you stay on fairway. Par/Bogey is good here.

Hole 16   :150 Yards Par 3. Downhill par 3 with bunkers surrounding green. Not too hard, Par attainable here.

Hole 17 :   333 Yards Par 4. Big dogleg left here. Fairly easy hole but easy to get into trouble.

Hole 18 :   369 Yards Par 4. Another picturesque fairway with trouble on left and right. Classic finishing hole.

The Park at Dewstow is a lovely course to play. It’s par 4’s are perfect in layout and distance, although a couple could be lengthened and turned into par 5’s. This would take the total par for the course up to a 71 from a 69. Newport is becoming a golfers’ paradise and courses such as this can only mature and get better.   O.Dyke

Las Iguanas, Cardiff - This is just THE BEST RESTAURANT EVER! I wouldn't go in the evening though because it gets     a bit too busy! I go at lunchtimes. They always serve immaculate meals with excellent ideas for the menu. This is a Brazillian restaurant. The staff are always polite and friendly and besides they make an amazing coconut ice cream!! My Mum and Dad love the meals too but they don't prefer the restaurant to the Chandlery! When will they ever learn..Anyway the restaurant has a lovely feel to it and it just makes you want to go there every single day. They have lovely fresh beverages too. Every time I go to Cardiff I go in Las Iguanas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!! Bubble

International Folk Festival, Tredegar House, Newport - Saturday May 13th - this is a remarkable event in Newport's cultural calendar taking place over three days with a range of dancers, musicians and performers from around the world.   Two marquees and a stage are squeezed in to the   Courtyard at Tredegar House together with a variety of craft stalls and activities for children. There's even a cider and perry tent   from a local brewer. There is a strong Celtic/Welsh feel to proceedings. The whole   event was kicked off a group of young musicians playing Celtic music in the main marquee conducted by Mr Donald Stewart. Many schools from the area were represented as was the Irish Club in Newport. Some of the play was outstanding and the audience were well entertained.

Despite the alternative attractions of the day (the FA Cup Final) there was a good crowd but it did occur to me that the City could make much more of this wonderful occasion. RD