The Amman Valley Chronicle and East Carmarthen News

THE OMNIBUS. I [Things Seen and Heard by the Conductor.] A little bit of Scotch at the Palace this week. The culvert struck work last week. We nean the men. Towyn was in his elemenit -0 Cwmamman on Saturday last. Truth sometimes has the disadvantage of seeming improbable. 0 A movement is on foot to re-start the Primrose League at Amman ford. It was rmioured that Bob Smillie passed through the Valley last week. Was it football or a general melee intro- duced up the Valley recently? Don't forget the Demob." eisteddfod to be held at Llandovery on Saturday. 0 The Llandovery Council has appointed its architect, but has not yet selected its building site. An actor hopes shortly to startle London. No recent cases of air raids have been re- ported • # He was playing an accordeon," said the constable, and had a crowd around him. Charming music. < An Amman Valley school manager is of the opinion that village life is incomplete without a school. To die completely a person must not only forget, but be forgotten, and he who is not forgotten is not dead. ? A Swansea evening heads a paragraph, Sunday School Problems." The drink traffic must be interesting. ? The man's eyes. snapped harshly,' reads a boys* Penny Dreadful. We wond er if they made much of a noise. • • • Of the 50 or so men from the quiet village of Rhandirmwyn who joined the Colours, six have made the supreme sacrifice. 0 The stick I had in my hand would not brain a rabbit," said the defendant. We would prefer not to be the rabbit. < Great was the commotion when the lady realised that she had to return by the last motor, but lost it. Oh, wipe thy sweated brow. Talbot Road represents a lake during the wet weather. There is already a demand for waders in readiness for the winter months. # » The upper part of the Valley is solely neglected from an educational standpoint, said one of the members of the Amman Valley School Managers. < < Madame Laura Evans-Williams, of the London and Provincial Halls, has been en- gaged to sing at the orchestral concert to be held on Wednesday next. The Bettws Choir, under the conductorship of Mr. Evan Bowen, were the winners in the choral competition at an eisteddfod held at Llandebie. Ymlaen." < If only folk would be more outspoken, how interesting it would be to learn exactly how often they have heartily wished they were at home during holiday time. October 7th has been fixed for the pofliiif for the Parliamentary election in the Rusholme Division. The defeated candidate will con- sider the outcome of its bearing. Carmarthen Division Unionist Association has appointed four Trade Unionists—two men and two women—to attend the National Unionist Labour Conference at Southport. Towyn, when presenting a medal to a recipient at Cwmamman on Saturday last, said that he did so on behalf of the Russian Government, and coolly added: If there is one." < Ammanford and district music-lovers are in for a rare feast on the occasion of the forth- coming annual high-class concert in connection with the English Baptist Church on October 29th next. U They say he gave you a black-eye," said < man to his pal, whereupon the latter re- plied: That's the way people exaggerate. I had the eye already. He merely laid on the colour." r* It was reported recently at a Board of Guardians. meeting that 56 persons over 70 years of age who had been in receipt of old- age pensions had been compelled through etressof circumstances to return to the Guar- dians* Institution. # An elderly gentleman of Clanamman de- clares that such a drought as prevailed from April to middle of August of this year has not been experienced since !8o7. It did not rain during that period sufficiently to wet the seed potato or to raise the Hood in the Amman liver. # The audience got thoroughly bored and ceased to pay any attention at all to tke theatrical company. Up in the gallery, in fact, two gentlemen started a loud argument. The discussion waxed vehement, and at last one threatened to chuck the oth er down into the p;t. Don't waste 'im, mate," came a tired voice from the circle. Throw im at the .,m I A flippant young kiddie of New Road, Brynamman, while travelling home by tram from the Cardigan coast, where he had been spending his first holiday, was jocularly teased by an older passenger as to where they were on certain points of the journey. The lad could not but answer "I don't know." After some silence, "Now then," his questioner repeated, where are we now, my boy? A moment afterwards Pencader tunnel was reached. "In the dark" replied the youth triumphantly. h reminds me," writes a correspondent, of an amusing story which occurred on the last occasion the Authorities deemed it fit to turn on the clock an hour. On the Sunday morning, an old and devout worshipper was seen entering the village church just as the last hymn was being sung. Powessed -pf a good uVLICiej he lutily accompanied, an& fol and behold, immediately afterwards was sur- Erised to see the congregation dispersing. uPl on making enquiries he found out the reason. On this occasion there will be cause to worry."

Garnant Re-union. I SPEECHES BY LORD DYNEVOR, TOWYN, LIEUT.COL. W. N. JONES, AND OTHERS. Saturday last was a red-letter day at Cwm- amman, when about 400 returned sailors and soldiers were entertained to a grand dinner, &c. Despite the inclemency of the weather, the event passed off with every satisfaction. The programme, an elaborate one, opened in the afternoon by a procession of all the discharged men from the district ond the local nobility. Headed by the Cwmamman Silver Band (conductor, Mr. Ben. Jones) the parade marched through the principal tho- roughfares. These warriors presented a smart appearance, and were in charge of Major Gilbert Davies, M.C. On their return a presentation meeting was heid at the Bethel Church, over which Mr. Arthur Williams, J.P., the chairman of the Cwmamman Urban District Council presided. There were also present Mr. J. Towyn Jones, M.P., who made the presentations, and Lt.- Col. W. N. Jones, J.P., C.C. The Chairman, at the outset, said that he was pleased to see so many present despite the inclemency of the weather. He was also glad of the distinguished company of Mr. Towyn Jones, their respected M.P., whom he had known for the past 20 to 30 years, and whom to-day was known even to the children. Lieut.- Col. W. N. Jones, who also was present, was known throughout the land. Lord Dynevor, who also had announced his i Intention of being present, had at the last moment, due to a pressing engagement, been unable to take the journey, but signified his intention of being present with them later in the evening. The Cwmamman district possessed an unique record, and during the war sent 400 men to the Colours to defend their King and their own beloved country. Of these some 54 had paid the supreme sacrifice, working out an average of 13 per cent. It was their duty to bear those 54 in mind. That significant motto "Lest we forget" was a symbol of their re- sponsibility as patriots. Speakting on the dependants of the fallen heroes, Mr. Williams urged them never to forget them, and to see that they were never found wanting. Lt.-Col. W. N. Jones received a great ova- tion, and said that the pleasure it gave him to be present could hardly be realized. He had met with a very nasty accident, and it was not until that morning that he knew that he would have been able to be present. With the assistance of a well-known medical man, he had been able to be with them, and that gentleman had called that morning and In- formed him that he could take the journey. During the war the Amman Valley had done much, more particularly Glanamman, who had sent out 400 of the best to save our country. These brave men had stood between them and the German horde, prepared to lay down their lives for this dear old England of ours (applause). He was proud to look up at all times to a figure on khaki. He recognized the fact that he and everyone present owed to these men a great debt. Fifty-four of these noble and great valiant heroes had yielded up the ghost on the field of battle. They felt proud of them for their great service to their country. They possessed the spirit of their forefathers, who also had fought for peace, which their children could enjoy. Those of them who had fought had done the same. Their children would derive in the years to come that great benefit. Many of ifer heroes in the years gone by had been forced to sell matches. It was up to them, the British public, to see that the same thing did not occur, There was those beautiful words "Lest we forget." It was up to them to see that these were cared for and looked after properly. Personally he could not do too much for the men. In 1914 the lfower of the British Army—that 180,000 contemptible little army, stopped the mad rush of the Germans. They owed a lot to them, and to little Bel- gium, who had prior to their arrival, kept them at bay. They owed to them the safety of our beautiful factories, our wonderful vallies, and the protection of our homes and churches. If there was anything he could do for these men he was prepared to do so. He felt proud to be able to give them that assurance. If the country was worth while fighting for, then it was the bounden duty of the people of that country to see that these men lacked nothing. He regretted that he was unable to stand much, but he, had come there that day to encourage them. As a member of the County War Pensions Com- mittee he had always the case of the soldier at heart. No doubt there was a good deal of delay in the settlement of claims of discharged men, but with a little patience the diffisulties now in the way could easily be surmounted. They were not unsurmountable. Mr. J. Towyn Jones next spoke, and said that they regretted the inability of Lord Dynevor to be present to pay tribute to the men who had done so gloriously. Speaking of MT. W. N. Jones, "Towyn" said he was pleased to learn that he was getting better after the accident. W .N." was a re- cuperative person, and one of the most energetic of public men in the country. Towyn then presented the following with the respective decoration awarded them on the field of honour:- Presented to Miss Elizabeth Docherty, daughter of the late No. 79729, Corporal R. Docherty; awarded Military Medal for his fine work in mining and defeating the enemy. 10699, Corporal James Hutchinson, 1st Cameron Highlanders. Awarded D.C.M. For conspicuous gallantry on April 25th and 26th, 1915, at Givenchy, in assisting to rescue officers and men from a deep mine full of poison gas. The courage and devotion to duty displayed were very pronounced, the risk of death through asphyixation being very great. Presented tto Mr. John Crump,-fatlr. No. 12094, Sergeant John William Crump, 4th Worcester Regt. Awarded Military Medal for bravery on the field in carrying a wounded oiffcer to a place of safety, November 14th 1916. ORDER OF SAINT STANNISLAU. I Awarded by the Russian Government to Stoker Petty Officer Charles E. Cockran, H.M.S. "Jupiter," for devotion to duty whilst serving in the White Sea, year 1915. It was announced that the award of M.M. had been made to William Jones (who has now returned to Australia) (son of Mr. Abraham Jones, of Jolly, Garnant). Un- fortunately, it has not been possible to obtain a full record of the above. 11726, Corporal H. Parker, 6th K.S.L.I., awarded M.M. for conspicuous bravery on 21st March, 1918, Happen Court, by promptly takin ghis Lewis gun within 100 yards of the enemy, emerging from a sunken road, and inflicting heavy casualties on them and holding them until his company had been withdrawn. Copy <9f official announcement of Military Medal awarded to Bombr. James Hurley, Royal Field Artillery, by the 10th H.H.A.G. on the 10th day or the sixth month, 1917, for gallantry, devotion to duty, and conspicuous bravery in keeping two heavy guns in action after three had been silenced by the enemy, and being hotly shelled at by four le batteries. L Towyn, at the close, said he was glad to see representatives of the Navy in the list of recipients, more so on account of the fact that he had been a sailor himself, and having been born on the coast of Cardigan Bay. Most of his people had also been sailors, and he knew a little of the risk and peril of the life on the ocean wave. Had it not been for the valuable and glorious service rendered by our Mer- cartile Marine during the last war, the result would have been disastrous. The courage of the men during the prosecution of the war had been formidable. Through their courage and noble sacrifice that great infernal machinery— Pruss.ianism-had been destroyed. The future of the world lay at stake, desolation and destruction faced them, and had it not been for these brave fellows the democraci es of the world would have been destroyed. These brave men had gone out to fight with one name and one great purpose, and that was the safety and the uplifting of the. country they loved. If anyone deserved the right to claim the good things possessed of this country, it was these brave heroes. They deserved of the best m the land. In Parliament one man could not do much, but he had stood out and out for the betterment of the men who had fought. He had even worried those capitalists on the platform at the time of the great recruiting campaign of their obligations. He said the same thing that day. He had done his very best, and was unable to do more. His conscience would not allow him to be otherwise. They did not allow him much time to himself. During the past three months he had received- no fewer than 500 letters on an average. He always made it a point to reply to them all. No other man could do more. At the Council School, Gamant, a sumptuous repast was provided. The tables had been tastefully decorated as well as the interior of the hall draped with the National colours. A list of ladies attended to the needs of the men and did nobly. To cope with the very large number of returned warriors three sittings were introduced, 200 being seated on each occasion. There was a plentiful supply of meat and salads, followed by pastries of all kinds, and a plentiful supply of either tea or coffee. Grace was said by the Rev. T. R. Jones, Calfaria. During the partaking of the luncheon, delightful selections were rendered by the Cwmamman Silver Band. It may be mentioned that there was such a supply of food available, that sufficient was left over to ensure another good spread for the dependants of the men. This was distributed at the close. After the tables were cleared, a rather elaborate programme was gone through, to which several well-known National winners contributed. Mr. Arthur Williams, J.P., who presided, said that he was pleased to notice so many present to extend a hearty welcome to their returned sailcTs and so ldiers, after their participation in one of the greatest of wars. Many of them present had served in France, Italy, Belgium, Turkey, Egypt, Mesopotamia, Palestine, and the North Sea, fighting for the liberty and freedom of humanity. They had given a helping hand in the ultimate defeat of Kaiserism and Prussian- ism. Germany's tyranny and their belief in "Might is Right," had, through the heroic service of returned warriors, bean crushed once and for all. Not long ago a memorial service had been held to the memory of their com- rades, who like themselve, had served to the realization of the Good Cause. These had fallen on the field of battle, full cf glory and honour, and even to-day their voices rang out in the triumphant victory gained by democracy. Those gentlemen who were their guests that evening had been more fortunate. They had returned to their midst once more, and he hoped that never again would they be called upon to participate in so terrible a mission. They had, through their sacirfice and valour, helped to bring about glorious Peace, which he trusted would be a lasting one between all nations. The League of Nations was likely to become a powerful tribunal, where disputes would be settled without having to resort to the barbarous method of war. They felt at Cwmamman that it was the least they could have done was to organize a reception of this nature, where a hearty wel- come could be extended, and to convey the warmest appreciation of its citizens for the noble manner in which these brave fellows answered the call of their King and Country, when in the day of darkness the issue was in the balance. Their response had been the means of bringing the war to a victorious and successful conclusion. 400 had left Cwm- amman, and of that number 54 had paid the supreme stcrifice. That total meant that one out of every eight had sacrificed his life. He did not believe there was a place in the great Empire that could produce a hner record than this. In conclusion, he- extended to them a hearty welcome, and their appreciation of the great, noble and heroic services they had rendered to the world in general, ard to the dear old country in particular (applause). Mr. J. Towyn Jones, M.P. and Junior Lord of the Treasury, followed with the toast to "The King, Queen and Royal Family." Towyn on this occasion proved to be in his element. He outlined the noble work done by the King during the war. Through the King's vast influence, the people had been kept together during the dark days of the war. He had set to the nation examples unique and historical in the Royal Court, and had gone so far as to lock up his cellars. Referring to the Queen Towyn said that she was the Woman of the Nation," and had proved herself to be as one of the people. She had been the means of bringing together the poor and the rich. The Prince of Wales was the idol of the people. The recent reception accorded conveyed in itself the close bond existing between him and the people. General Smuts once paid a tribute to the great British Empire with its King at the head," concluded Towyn. Miss Jer,nie Evans gave a so lo in fine style, and received a great ovation. MT. John Roberts, the triple National winner, fol- lowed with one of his select masterpieces. lt5 title, Not Understood," proved the con- trary, judging by the appreciative and atten- tive hearing given to the performer. Lord. Dynevor, in submitting the toast of The Navy, Army and Auxiliary Forces," was received with great cheering. He said that he was most highly pleased to have been invited to so auspicious an occasion. He out- lined the magnificent work done by these great forces during the war. He assured them further that he felt proud to be present that evening to extend a helping hand to the boys who had done so well on the various battle- fronts. Their valiant and heroic sacrifices, their courage and fine discipline would go down through the ages. It was to be hoped that never be en- J gaged in so great a task. Thanks to the lads, who had even been prepared to give of their best-theix life, the deaT old country would again be able to enjoy that Peace its sons had so richly deserved. Mr. W. S. Wardlaw, M.E., on behalf of the discharged sailors and soldiers, and the Rev. John Thomas, Bethesda, in responding, paid a warm tribute to Lord Dynevor. There was, they contended, no better democrat pre- sent than Lord Dynevor. (Cheers) His many connections on public bodies linked him with the "people. Miss Lzzie James followed with the sing- ing of a beautiful solo. The ovation accorded this singer again was .most encouraging. Major Gilbert Davies then proposed a toast to Our Absent Friends." He paid a glow- ing tribute to the heroism of many of the departed comrades, and gave a brief descrip- tion of his own experiences. He mentioned one village in particular in Belgium which had been completely wiped out of existence. There was to-day only ruins and a few sign- posts to denote the scene of a once prosperous and thriving village. Mr. Tom Morris, C.C., J.P., who re- sponded, delivered an able and eloquent address. Mr. Tom Harry delivered a recitation in fine style, and was warmly received. The words touchingly appealed to the vast audi- ence. To those who had lost their dear ones there was a kindly and appropriate message conveyed in the composition. Major Gilbert Davies, in proposing a toast to The Peace Celebrations Committee," said that the same term was applicable in this case as in that to the Army, the Navy, and the Auxiliatry Forces. He wished to cop- fine them similarly and to three distinct classes. The Army-the Peace Celebra- tions Committee, had rendered yeoman ser- vice. With Mr. Arthur Williams as their general, they had been able that evening to prepare a right royal welcome to those who had answered the call. Their work had been invaluable, and to them as a committee great credit was due. The Navy—those who had provided the boiling water for the satisfying of the inner man-had also worked exceed- ingly hard. Speaking of the Auxiliary Forces —which Major Davies confined to those who had prepared the tables, those who contri- buted to the programme, the accompanist, Mr. John Morgan, L.L.C.M., and the several other helpers—he said that, due to their un- tiring labours, an enjoyable evening had been ;7.t, and to which they (as discharged men) had done justice. The Chairman then proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Lord Dynevor, Mr. J. Towyn Jones, M.P., coupled with Lieut.-Col. W. N. Jones, who had been forced to leave early in the evening on account of indisposition, for personally attending that evening. Lord Dynevor, replying on behalf of him- self and associates, said that it had given him very great pleasure to be with them that evening. The meeting terminated with the singing of the National Anthems. Special mention should be made of the yoeman assistance rendered by Messrs. W. E. Jones, The Brooks, Garnant, W. Williams, Y Wern, Garnant, and Rees Roberts, Gwynfryn, Glanamman. These gentlemen had personally superintended the preliminary arrangements, and had done much to ensure the success of the function, which will long be remembered in the annals of the little minting vilages of Gamant and Glanamman. The secretary, Mr. Bracey, also deservs praise, and is to be complimented upon the great success which has attended his efforts. The members of the general committee were:—Councillors Arthur Williams, J.P. (chairman), John Jones (vice-chairman), Tom Morris, J.P., John Rees, David Thomas, Thomas Thomas, Tom Harry, David Davies, Robert Edwards, Revs. William Williams, John Thomas, T. R. Jones, Finant Morgan, Messrs. Henry Folland, Gwilym Morgan, W. A. Rowe, James Fuller, David Jones, Rhys Roberts, William Williams, P. W. Gunning, J. R. Thomas, E. R. Wilde, John Ptillips, W. Martin Knoyle, W. E. Jones, Job Thomas, J. J. Phillpott, Mojor Gilbert H. Davies, R.E., and Coun. W. Aubrey Hay Hon. Treasurer).

Amman Valley Sporting Gossip I I [By "FREELANCE. "] I On Friday evening last I had the oppor- tunity of attending one of the Rugby meetings at Llandovery. My old veteran pal, Edgar Evans, was in the chair, and he seems to have matters well balanced. Later on in the eveninig there put in an appearance that stalwart of Welsh Rugby, Mr. Harry Watkias. He to-day is the backbone of the Llandovery Club, and has even gone so far as to promise to turn out on hard pressed occasions. Now, what more can the younger element desire. Surely if the old veterans agree to watch the interests of the individual players, then all is running smooth. I was very much struck with Harry's remarks, in which he assured the Llandovery club of his every assistance, both financially and to go to the extreme physically. He recalled his old playing days, and went so far as to say that the unbeatable talent in the Rugby world was to be found at Llandovery. But Harry, pardon me, those might have been the mem- bers of the old school. It will take years to regain the old form or the old type of player. Even you at Llandovery will have to look to your laurels, but please, Mr. Editor, let me add that the Llandovery club has been one of those fortunates, which even Romeo and Juliet coutd not equalize. They have been able to procure the use of a playing field at next to nothing. The uprights were given them by Mr. Stokes, New Road; their jerseys pre- sented them by Mr. David Jones, another old soldier, now carrying on business at King's Road. Why, even the football was given gratis, and handed over by Messrs. J. Jenkins and Sons, High Street. They may believe me to be envious? Why, you are not far from wrong, when taking into consideration the expenses already incurred at Ammanford. Another valuable asset to the club is Dan. Lewis, perhaps I may be a little too concise, and address him as Councillor Lewis. Then again is the old stager D. T. Morgan. His son Cyril follows him closely, and will be a great service to the club. There is the old adage "Like father like son," and which is applicable in this case. Personally, I should like the chairman of the club to regulate the order of debate a little better. It would be more advantageous in the carrying out of the business. At the same time, I would like him to accept my apology for any intrusion, but there you are, "Harry" Would have me to talk. The Llandovery club has deeded to apply for admission into the mother of all clubs— the Welsh Union. It will be one of the finest opportunities ever afforded the little club, and with the influence behind them, there should be no difficulty in acquiring the coveted dis- tinction of being included in the list of W.R.F.U. Before closing my remarks on the activities of the Llandovery club, and which has taken up a good deal of space, I should like to congratulate the club in having so fine and able a secretary, on the person of Mr. T. H. Evans. He is a hard and conscientious worker and deserves to be followed. The soccerites did very well on Saturday against Swansea Amateurs, but really there is room for improvement. I gather that the com- mittee, on Monday evening, substituted several of the players. Included is the position of centre-half, the main spring of the side. Hicks made a poor show on Saturday in this position. W. Hughes takes his place. I do not, however, fancy the change. Another change is the goal-keeper. Tommy Jones has been chosen to play on Saturday next. Three only of the forward line remain. Rather drastic the selection has been. There is no reason why Ammanford cannot regain the points already lost, and there is the fact to consider that the team is young and inex- perienced. Is it not time that the Soccerites devoted a little more time to their practices? The Rugbyites are doing well, and already have drawn blood. On Saturday they met Pontardulais, and gained a victory. The committee here again has realized the need for a change in their selection. Presently we shall be back in our old form, and winning matches galore. I would, however, like a supporter of the Rugby club to supply me with a report of the away games. Perhaps they will give me a call at the Chronicle Office. I do not for a moment wish it to be circulated that I am begrudging space to the followers of the Rugby code. I am as keen a follower of this popular winter pastime as they. If they could only realize my circum- stances, they might sympathize. When away matches are being played I should like very much to accompany them, and will see later if some arrangements cannot be come to. The report of the Amman United v. Ystalyfera appears in another column, and is from the pen of "Old Sport," with whom I had a personal conversation on Saturday last. The game Ammanford Assocation club v. Swansea Amateurs was played on the Recrea- tion Ground on Saturday last before a fair crowd. The Ammanfordians fielded the fol- lowing team:—Goal, CudJip; full-backs, R. Thomas and I. Thomas; halves, Tay lor, Hicks and Parrot; forwards, Popple, Mor- gan, Crockford, Twist, and C. Rees. The visitors kicked off, and the homesters soon brought play to the visitors' territory. The Swansea forwards, however, came to the rescue, and with the excellent combination they possessed, easily relieved matters. Parrot, the home right half-back, secured the bait, and again play became dangerous for the visitors. Eventually, Crockford got hold of the leather, and with a fine shot secured the first goal for Ammanford. This created a great impression, but only awhile, for with a JlUsh, and due to the laxity of the home backs, the visitors equalised. Resuming, Swansea pressed, Weir crossing to the centre, and from there on to the outside-right, who placed the bail beautifully between the poses. Half-time score: Swansea Amateurs, 2 goals; Ammanford, I. In th ^second half, Ammanford were kept .continually on the defence, and seemed to have lost all confidence. The vistors, taking advantage of the laxity of the homesters, scored another pretty goal. Shortly after- wards another rush by the Swansea forwards brought play to the danger zone, and after several pretty bouts of passing, placed the ball home. Ammanford at this juncture bucked up a little, and brought play once again to the visitors' territory, and Johnny Morgan succeeded in netting the ball. On resuming, the visitors again got the best of play, and gained another score, which was followed by Crockford, who again, after some brilliant play, procured a third goal. From here to the end Ammanford pressed, but failed to gain any additional points. Final score: Swansea Amateurs, 5 goals; Amman- ford, 3. The Swansea backs were by far superior in their play. The Swansea team included several first- class players. Swansea's"' goalkeeper was one of the Swans' last year's team. Also one of the forwards. The Ammanford backs did not give the goalie much of a chance. There was too much argui ng the toss on the field. Twist ought to see that this is done away Twi I'St ought to see that this is done away Charlie Rees was not up to his best form. The Swansea backs watched Charlie Rees. It was a case of Should auld acquaintance be, forgot." Did the supporters notice the difference in the training of the both teams? The referee on Saturday proved hot stuff. A little too much of the Swan about it. The man who paid twice to enter the field on Saturday was a sport. Pity the poor scribbler. There is no tele- phone near the ground. What about an Avro? The Swansea Amateurs drew against Pon tarda we, but it is said that Ammanford should whack them on Saturday. Old Bob Thomas plays as keen a game as ever, despite his 50 years. Tommy Twist was a little slow on Satur- day. He has not yet had the opportunity to understand his side. Parrot was the shining tight on Saturday. Beware, Amman ford. Why was Tommy Jones dropped on. Satur- day last? Was it a question of expense? How did Hicks get to the position of centre-half? Strange, and it being the chief position on the field. Shaw is to be given a trial next Saturday. He should do well, and is a promising youngster. Players should not interfere in the selection of the team. The captain generally holds the whip hand, and he should not be influenced by personalities. D. Jones is one of the unknown to me, but he may possess the stuff. Whether thece were a number of hot cakes or bricks on the field on Saturday is a matter for the spectators' opinion. Tailor failed to create an impression. Result: Cur-tail-er. Johnny (M) organ (ised) a few lively stunts on Saturday. He is a player of action, not words. No (r) man judged the game from a broad- minded standpoint last Saturday, but he did, and is a member of the selection committee. Llandebie played Grovesend on Saturday last. The result proved a draw. The Llandebie Club is already well estab- lished, and I hear that they have entered the League. The fixture list is an elaborate one, and includes several well-known clubs. The Caerbryn Rugby Club is due to play Llandovery on Saturday week. An interest- ing tussle is anticipated. The Ammanford Rugby Club reached Pontardulais rather late on Saturday last, due to a breakdown on the way there. The committee were, however, sports enough to offer to Pontardulais another date to compensate them for any loss which they may have incurred. The Ammanford Rugbyites were by far the better team on Saturday. Pontardulais will have to look to its laurels. « I hear that Ike Evans played a brilliant game at outside-half. He substituted Abbot Bach," who is down with an injury to the leg. The full-back played a faulty game, but at the same time I do not wish to elaborate his faults. The try scored by Danny Thomas was the best of the day. He is one of the most promising of Amman- ford's backs. Trevor Williams easily managed to convert. He is possessed of a fine kick, and is a very useful player. The forward line excelled itself. The Selection Committee has eventually struck" gold. The position of custodian for next Satur- I day's game has up to the time of writing been left open. Itls doubtful whether Pontardulais deserved their score. Some say the try was absolutely given? I notice that several Tirydail youngsters are included in the pack. Nothing like giving young blood a chance. Great surprise was felt among the players of the late Tirydail Football Team when they read that part of Old Sport's article in last week's Chronicle which spoke about the non-fulfilment of a fixture which the Tiry- dail boys were supposed to have fixed up with Amman United Seconds. The Tirydail team was not in existence at the  ? ? supposed nxture, owing to dimculty in obtaining a ground'; and it is generally understood in this quarter that "1 letter to this effect was sent to the secretary. It would do no harm to jog Old 5port' s" memory a httle, as he surely has ziot forgotten the fact that last season the Tirydail team agreed to play a benefit match in Glanamman, when it was the turn of the Valley team to play a return fixture down here. And again, on last Good Friday, when a return fixture had been arranged, the Glanamman team kept the Tirydail boys, already stripped, wait- ing nearly an hour, and then failed to turn up, without notification of any kind having been sent; and to a team not blessed with un- limited finances, the loss of what promised to be a good gate was quite a serious blow. Since these notes were written, we have hear d that, thanks to the generosity and sporting spirit of Mr. O. D. Edwards, who in the interest of sport has placed his field at the disposal of the Tirydajj team, they are now m a position to arrange ifxtures, and will be only too pleased to renew acquaintance with the teams up the Valley. The secretary to the Tirydail Rugby Club wishes me to make it known that they are anxious to receive lists of open dates from clubs. The season has already opened, and they are rather anxious to complete their fix- tures. The secretary is. Mr. Myrddin Wil- liams, 15, Tirydail Lane. Perhaps they would care to arrange a fix- ture with Llandovery? Let me know.

The Chrm*it tyill be tent by pott to any addreta at 4/4 for the half-year, »r 8/8 pel annum, payable is advance.

I Amman United Notes. I [By "OLD SPORT."} AMMAN UNITED v. YSTALYFERA. Result: Amman United, 2 tries; Y stayfera. nil. Scorers: Joe Rees and Evan Phillifs. The first home match of the season was played on the Cwmamman Recreation Gro" before a goodly crowd of spectators. It far from being an ideal day for the wi pastime, for although no ram fell, a veil strong wind: blew right up the ground. AL footballers of any experience will realise what this means. it always tend to put everythaig out of gear. Passes go astray, and accurate kicking cannot be depended upon. All this has a strong bearing on the play ofboth sides. Last Saturday's game was no exception to this rule, and what should have turned out to be a fine exposition of the Rugby code was more- or less spoilt by the elements. However, much that was good, and even at times bril- liant, was witnessed by the spectators. There were some really fine movements by the home backs, particularly in the second half. Let me say at once, though, that the Scarlets did not give nearly so bright a display as they did at Llangennech the week previous. The for- wards, although doing many good things, were not so convincing. T hey seemed to lack the extar bit of dash necessary, and the heeling was not so regular. There were times when the ball came out so smartly that even Morgan Rees at the base of the scrum was beaten, but for the most part this phase of their play was ragged. I believe we have the right material, particularly in one or two individual cases. A couple of the youngsters did not use their heads as well, on Saturday, as they should have done. On one occasi on when the pack rushed up to the visitors' line in a fine burst, one of these youngsters, when within only a few yards of the goal line, booted the ball so hard as to make the whole movement abortive, thus spoiling an excellent chance for a score. Whilst on the matter of the forwards, I should like to mention that rumours Are flying about that some of the old hands are ke~n on turn- ing out again. Opinion is divided a-mongst b l i 'y'f Amman supporters as to the advisability of these players coming back." Whilst some argue that they would strengthen the pack others are strongly of the opinion, that it will be a mistaken policy on the part of the com- mittee to pick them. My own humble opinion is this, that if these men do wish to plav that they should receive equal treatment at the hands of the committee as the youngsters. I have always been a keen supporter of the youngsters myself, but at the same time a leaven of the old hands would be of great assistance in giving confidence and experience to the younger players. Of course, the old hands will have to prove their worth, and I know them all to be good enough sports to rely on the committee giving them fair con- sideration if they prove that they deserve it. We cannot have too many players, and it would be a simple matter to arrange for players to stand lown in turn. To return to the Ystalyfera game, I was- rather impressed with the ripe display of Tom Evans in the line-out. This young player possesses the inches (I was almost going to say yards) to make him an asset of great value to his side. On Saturday he had mastered the knack of putting the ball down properly at his feet. Then, again, as middle man n the rear rank in the scrum he has the necessary Teach to form a proper lock. J. Styles was again very prominent, but at pre- sent needs a little more polish. He, also, takes the ball splendidly in the line-out, and goes through with a dash, but more often than not hangs on to the ovail instead of putting it down. This is a fault easily remedied, and I have no hesitation in saying that in Styles we have a player who will be worthy of the best traditions of Amman United forward play. Ward and Rees Owen were also- aoticeable. Before leaving the forwards, I should like to point out one obvious fault in last Saturday's game. This was the poor marking in the line-out. Every forward should make it a point of noticing who ? throw-in it is. If their opponents', then they should make it their first business to mark an opponent; but if the throw-in is by their own half-back, then they have no need to bother- about finding an opponent to mark. This is a simple point, but nevertheless one that is often overlooked. Now for the backs. At half we were not so well served as at Llangennech. Both Morgan Rees and Arthur Prce seemed slow. Possibly the former was handicapped by the irregular heeling of the forwards, and this maay have affected his play. do not wish to imply that either played a poor game, for each of them did many fine things. Arthur Price seemed much more at home in extri- cating himself out of tight comers than in feeding his three-quarters. This does not. mean that he did not part with the ball, but that when he did, it was done with a slow- ness that robbed the centres of any chance of doing anything with it. There u just a slight tendency also to run across the field, thus boring the wings into touch. However, much ot his work in general was very smart. The- three-qyarters, when they got properly going, were a dangerous lot, and never failed to gain ground. The two young centres did not attempt much in breaking through. In thi.- Joe Rees gave them an excellent exampl- in the closing stages of the game when he ,ored his fine try. Both wings were fleet dash- ing, and were well fed by the cer-Ites. Had the three-quarters seen more "t the ball behind, I feel convinced thc the Ystalyfera. line would have been crossed on more than two occasions. With a little experience, I fancy we have a quartette drat will gve the Amman supporters fuli va'ue for their money. Joe Rees as sh,tlg h*s team a worthy example, and K* team, I am sure, are proud of him. F-s display again on Saturday stamps hi-, as a class player. He beats hit oppone-<ts so easily as to make one believe that they do not try to stop him. This is the  of ability. In one thing only was Joe lacking, and that was accuracy in kicking. He missed an easy penalty, but almost made up for it a moment later by a brilliant attempt at a drop goal from halfway. The b?tll just curled outside the top of the post. In the later stages of the game he played as extra: three-quarter, and made the committee wish they could get a reliable full-back and bring Joe forward in the three quarter line perma- nently. Now, boys, you have a stiff stile to cross next Saturday at Skcwen. Let us see if you can clear the top rail. The Seconds' match with Brynamman was postponed, owing to the dinner to the soldiers and sailors of Cwmamman clashing. It will be played at a later date. I should have mentioned in last week's notes that the com- mittee have now decided that the 10s. season ticket shall cover admission to both First and Second matches.

LLANDOVERY LADIES' SUCCESSES. The two sisters, Lily and Fa my Morgan r of Llandovery, swept the boards at Llan- gadock Sports held on Thursday last. They won no fewer than five prizes. It may be added that these two young ladies have be- come famous in the running world, and recently Lily Morgai won her heat in the big event held at Ammanford. They are daugh- ters of Mr. E. J. Morgan, a well-known athlete of his day. Printed and Published by the Amman valley Chronicle, Limited, at their Offic". Quay Street, Amman ford, in the County of CM.. Earthen, September 25th, 1919.