During the solar eclipse, when a chill filled the air and the moon obscured the sun, Ridgeway Social Group enthusiasts gathered to witness the spectacle. Numerous members joined the crowds assembling on the hill at Ridgeway, bringing seats, food, and beverages for an impressive view.
Organiser Kieran McHugh assembled a playlist featuring multiple tracks connected to the sun or moon, as suggested by participants, and appropriately closed with Bonnie Tyler’s Total Eclipse of the Heart.
Meanwhile, the Eating Around the World subgroup had already arranged a culinary trip to Portugal and secured a reservation at Ty Madeira in Cardiff. Concerned about missing the celestial event, they headed to the gathering near Cardiff train station, where their sightline remained unobstructed.
Birds appeared disoriented by the eclipse, descending toward the ground as though food had been dropped. While several members were unable to attend because public transport services were suspended, Ty Madeira delivered an enjoyable evening. Steve, one of the diners, celebrated his birthday with the restaurant team performing Happy Birthday and playing the traditional brinquinho percussion instrument. Some attendees also enjoyed drinks during their journey home.
The upcoming Eating Around the World dining experience is expected to feature Thai cuisine.
On Friday, numerous Ridgeway Social Group members took advantage of the pleasant weather and attended Choirs in the Park at Beechwood Park, enjoying performances from various local choirs. Allegra delivered an accomplished rendition, while the energetic Rock Choir had the audience on their feet dancing.
The RSG Coffee Club convenes Friday morning at the Tredegar House café, which appeared on national television this week when the weather report was broadcast from its grounds.
Residency in Ridgeway is not required to participate in this lively social group. One recently joined member actually resides in London but intends to join activities during visits to the area every few weeks. Search for RSG on Facebook and Instagram.
Pat Drewett, councillor for Allt-yr-Yn ward, has launched a campaign urging Newport City Council and Cadw to acknowledge, safeguard, and highlight the remarkable historical significance of the Roman Road on Ridgeway. This thoroughfare to Caerleon dates back nearly two millennia, with its elevated, well-drained position and panoramic vistas serving strategic purposes for Roman soldiers.
Information leaflets are available at the Londis corner shop, where a QR code provides additional details and access to sign the petition. Alternatively, visit the specified website or search for The Roman Road on Ridgeway on change.org.
The Ridgeway Bar & Restaurant staged its first general knowledge trivia night on Sunday, with £75 claimed as the prize. The subsequent quiz had been scheduled for the Bank Holiday weekend but has been moved forward to Sunday 23 August at 7.30pm. Participation costs £3 per person with team sizes limited to six. A limited food menu will be available to sustain mental efforts.
Owing to safety issues, the local primary school must remove the hornbeam trees that have stood along the school entrance for many years. However, a replanting scheme in partnership with Newport City Council’s Tree Team will introduce 12 new specimens across the grounds, including fruit trees to support educational activities for pupils.