GREEN GYM NEWS: Clive Ward has sent in the following report: The Green Gym goes out doing work at a leisurely pace to suit all those involved once a week for a few hours on various sites and projects.

This week the group were able to go out on their allotment site, pictured right, and enjoy the September sunshine and plant various autumn vegetables, in readiness for the group's Autumn Party.

Members were also able to enjoy strawberries picked on the allotment as part of the refreshment break.

After the bad summer it was lovely to be out making the most of each other's company - members are always very supportive to new attenders and work very well as a team, appreciating each others' skills.

Why not consider joining us for one of our autumn events? To find out more about our weekly programme or our Autumn Party email: c.ward@btcv.org.uk in the first instance.

CYCLE SKILLS: If you are aged between 16-25 years, and are interested in taking part in a 12-week cycling project, starting in September, then read on.

The course includes bike maintenance, leadership skills and health and safety.

This project could lead you to opening a community cycle hire and repair outlet. For more information, please telephone (01495) 309694.

DANCE CLASSES: If you are interested in tap, ballet, freestyle or theatrecraft, then Julie McGuire's School of Dancing may be able to help you.

Classes are now being held in Abertillery Learning Action Centre and cater for children from the age of 3 right up to adults.For more information, please telephone 01495 723755.

MARTIAL ARTS: Blaentillery Social Club are now hosting martial arts classes, Phraya Pichai (Muay Thai Camp) "Get fighting fit".

If you are just interested in self-defence, or would like to enter a range of competitions from amateur or professional, then why not go along and find out more?

Regular gradings and seminars will also take place, and classes are held on Wednesdays, Beginners 6pm-7pm, Advanced 7pm-9pm; Fridays, Beginners 6pm-7pm, Advanced 7pm-8.30pm; Sundays, Mixed noon-2pm.

For more information, please contact Lee, on 07816 269772.

Brazilian Ju-Jitsu (Grappling Noki/GI) Male or female - all are welcome. Get fit, learn self-defence or enjoy being part of a competition team.

The kit is simple, shorts and T-shirt or, if, you already have one, a GI/kimono. The classes are held on Thursday, 6pm-8pm; Saturday 1pm-2.30pm For more information, tel 07737 562751.

CHINESE AUCTION: Brynithel Ladies Club are holding a Chinese Auction on Tuesday, September 15, in Brynithel Community Centre. The evening starts at 7.30pm and entry is by ticket only.

Tickets cost £1, and include light refreshment.

DAY TRIPS: Blaenau Gwent Senior Citizens are organising two more day trips.

Wednesday, September 26 - A trip through the Wye Valley and then going on to Weston-super-Mare. Tickets £10.

Wednesday, November 28 - Christmas Shopping Trip to Swansea. Tickets cost £8.

For more information, telephone Sue Rocke, on 01495 216477.

CONCERT: Abertillery Orpheus Male Voice Choir is presenting An Evening of Music from Stage and Screen, at The Metropole on Saturday, September 29, starting at 7pm.

The concert will also feature baritone Josh Lewis as guest artist.

Tickets cost £5 and are available from This n That, or choir members, on 01495 211157.

FREE COURSES: Community of the Valleys is offering a range of free courses: Studying Short Stories and Writing - based at Brynithel and starting on September 20.

Programming for Interactive Media - based at Brynteg and starting on September 17.

Interactive Media Flash Project - also based at Brynteg and starting on September 21.

Counselling and Interviewing Skills - based in Brynmawr and starting on September 17.

For more information, please contact either Claire or Ann, on 01495 722973.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: Domestic Violence affects many people.

If you have experienced it and feel there is nowhere to turn, Wales Domestic Abuse Helpline offers a FREE phone service.

So, if you are confused, concerned or worried, they can help.

They offer a free phone line available 24 hours, on 0808 80 10 800. This call will not show on a landline bill.