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← The Swallows Head & Neck Cancer Support Group

2025-03-30-accounts

Trustees' Annual Report for the period

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||||||| |---|---|---|---|---|---| |Period start date|Period end date| |1|April|2024|31|March|2025| |From|To|

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Section A Reference and administration details

Charity name The Swallows Head & Neck Cancer Support Group

Other names charity is known by None

Registered charity number (if any) 1149794 ~~[oo~~

Charity's principal address 2 Sycamore Trading Estate

Squires Gate Lane Blackpool, Lancashire Postcode FY4 3RL

Names of the existing charity trustees who manage the charity

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|||||| |---|---|---|---|---| |Dates acted if not for whole|Name of person (or body) entitled| |Trustee name|Office (if any)| |year|to|appoint|trustee|(if any)| |ee|ee ee| |1|Andrew Grice|Chair|The Board| |a| |2|Norman Hill|Trustee|The Board| |ee| |3|Joe Bannister|Treasurer|The Board| |a| |4|Ali Khurram|Trustee|The Board| |ee| |5|a|Lyanne Wright|Trustee|The Board| |6|Mo Amirkhani|Trustee|The Board| |ee| |7| |a| |8| |a| |9| |es| |10| |ee| |11| |a| |12| |ee| |13| |a| |14| |ee| |15| |a| |16| |ee| |17| |a| |18|

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Names of the trustees for the charity, if any, (for example, any custodian trustees)

Name Dates acted if not for whole year

Names and addresses of advisers (Optional information)

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Type of adviser Name
Address		 Name
Address
Accounts Lawsons Accountants 19 Prestbury Avenue Blackpool FY4 1PT
Independent Examiner Andy Moore Blaenpentre, Swyddffynnon, Ystrad Meurig, SY25
7AW
Clinical Advisor A Nigam, Surgeon Victoria Hospital, Blackpool
Clinical Nurse Joanne Ashton Blackpool Victoria Hospital, Blackpool
Name of chief executive or names of senior staff members (Optional information)
Mr Christopher Curtis, Chief Executive Officer
Mrs Sharon Curtis, Charity Manager

Mr Christopher Curtis, Chief Executive Officer

Mrs Sharon Curtis, Charity Manager

Section B Structure, governance and management

Description of the charity’s trusts

Constitution adopted November 2012 and updated 15[th] May 2024 at the Type of governing document AGM

Charitable Incorporated Organisation

How the charity is constituted

Trustee selection methods

Trustees are appointed or reappointed annually at the AGM held in November or during the year with all Trustee approval

Additional governance issues (Optional information)

You may choose to include additional information, where relevant, about:

Governance and Organisational Structure

Trustee Induction and Training

The Swallows Head & Neck Cancer Support Charity has adopted a comprehensive induction process for new trustees to ensure they are wellequipped to carry out their duties effectively. New trustees receive a welcome pack that includes the charity’s governing document, recent financial reports, the strategic plan, and guidance from the Charity Commission on the responsibilities of trustees. Ongoing development is encouraged through access to relevant training opportunities, charity sector webinars, and updates on emerging legal and governance issues.

Organisational Structure and Networks

The charity is governed by a Board of Trustees, who are responsible for strategic oversight, compliance, and safeguarding the charity’s values and mission. Day-to-day operations are managed by a dedicated core team of staff and volunteers. The Swallows works closely with a network of healthcare professionals, hospitals, dental surgeries, cancer support organisations, and advocacy groups, both in the UK and internationally. This collaborative approach strengthens the impact of our programmes and allows us to share best practices across the head and neck cancer community.

Related Party Relationships

There have been no related party transactions during the reporting year. All trustees have declared any potential conflicts of interest, and none have been identified. The charity continues to maintain robust procedures to ensure transparency and integrity in all its dealings.

Risk Management

The Trustees are committed to identifying and managing major risks that could impact the charity’s ability to meet its objectives. A risk register is maintained and reviewed regularly, with particular attention paid to

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financial sustainability, safeguarding, data protection, reputational risks, and volunteer management. Key systems are in place to mitigate these risks, including insurance policies, safeguarding protocols, data handling policies (in line with GDPR), and strict financial controls. Regular board meetings ensure that emerging risks are promptly addressed, and mitigation strategies are updated accordingly.

Section C Objectives and activities

Summary of the objects of the charity set out in its governing document

Swallows Head & Neck Cancer Charity, A Beacon of Support

The charity is dedicated to patients and caregivers affected by head and neck cancers and plays a crucial role in providing support and resources. The mission revolves around four key pillars: Support, Awareness, Research and Advocacy.

Support

Comprehensive support for patients, caregivers, families facing head and neck cancers. Includes emotional support, practical assistance navigating the complexities of treatment and recovery into survivorship.

Support group meetings facilitated by the charity creates a safe space for individuals to share experiences and insights, fostering a sense of community, family and understanding. The meeting in your area is held every 2[nd] Thursday of the month where patients, caregivers, family and friends come together in a relaxed and friendly environment to meet like-minded people.

Awareness

The charity actively engages in raising awareness about head and neck cancers, their risk factors and symptoms. Education and early detection are pivotal in improving outcomes for patients. The charity collaborates with health professionals around the globe, conducts awareness campaigns, and utilises various platforms to disseminate information to the public.

Making a Difference

The charity stands as a beacon of hope for those navigating the challenge of head and neck cancers. By providing support 24/7, raising awareness, supporting research, supporting hospital teams, and advocating for change, the charity contributes significantly to the well-being of individuals and families affected by these complex cancers. Patients, caregivers, family members and friends all gather to have a social evening and chat about how they are dealing with the head and neck cancer journey. Currently, we have several support groups in the UK and our unique international virtual monthly patient and caregiver meeting. Our experience, and feedback gathered from attendees, is that they value this time spent together to talk about their own specific issues in an open and honest way and to receive support.

Making a difference in the fight against head and neck cancers

Our cancers pose unique challenges, affecting vital areas, the mouth, throat, nose, and salivary glands. Coping with the physical, emotional, and financial burdens can be overwhelming for individuals and their families. We step in to provide support, awareness, and hope.

Our website highlights the locations where we have our current groups. If you have one close to you, make a call or send an email to start on a new journey of hope and belief or just turn up at the next meeting where a friendly face will greet you.

24/7 Support Patient & Caregiver Line: 07504 725 059 24/7 Support Patient & Caregiver Text support line 07830 929 400

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Summary of the main
activities undertaken for the
public benefit in relation to
these objects (include within
this section the statutory
declaration that trustees have
had regard to the guidance
issued by the Charity
Commission on public
benefit)

Public Benefit Statement: Summary of Activities
The trustees of_The Swallows Head & Neck Cancer Charity_confirm that they
have complied with their duty under section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 to have
due regard to the guidance on public benefit published by the Charity
Commission in determining the activities undertaken by the charity.
Over the past year, The Swallows has delivered a wide range of impactful
services and programmes for the public benefit in accordance with its charitable
objectives: to relieve sickness and preserve health among those affected by head
and neck cancer, including patients, caregivers, family members, and healthcare
professionals.
Key activities undertaken include:

24/7 Support Line and Text Services
Offering round-the-clock emotional and practical support to patients,
caregivers, and families via telephone and SMS, ensuring immediate
help is available at any time, especially during times of crisis.

Monthly Online and In-Person Support Groups
Facilitating peer-led support meetings across the UK—including new
groups in the Midlands and high-attendance meetings in Ipswich—
providing compassionate, safe environments for individuals to share
their experiences, reduce isolation, and access resources.

Distribution of Patient Support Boxes
Delivering over 150 bespoke Swallows Support Boxes to patients
undergoing or recovering from treatment. These include comfort items
and oral care products to ease treatment side effects.

Raising Awareness and Delivering Education Materials
Distributing over 2,000 awareness and information materials to
hospitals, dental surgeries, GP clinics, libraries, and community centres,
helping to educate the public and health professionals on the signs,
symptoms, and lived experience of head and neck cancer.

International Head & Neck Cancer Conference 2024
Hosting a two-day global conference attended by patients, caregivers,
clinicians, and researchers. Funding enabled patients and volunteers
from across the UK to attend by covering travel and accommodation
expenses, removing financial barriers to participation.

Support for NHS Hospital Reach
Providing practical and emotional support to patients in every UK
hospital treating head and neck cancer.

Awareness Campaigns
Delivering targeted campaigns, including a UK-wide HPV vaccine
awareness programme for boys in schools, helping to prevent future
head and neck cancer cases.
These activities are designed to benefit the public by improving health outcomes,
reducing patient and caregiver distress, and promoting awareness and education
around head and neck cancer. The trustees are confident that the charity’s work
meets the public benefit requirement and continues to provide critical support
where it is most needed.

Additional details of objectives and activities (Optional information)

Additional Details of Objectives and Activities

Charitable Objectives

The primary aim of The Swallows Head & Neck Cancer Charity is the relief of sickness and the preservation of health for individuals affected by head and neck cancer, including patients, caregivers, family members, and healthcare professionals. This is achieved through a wide range of supportive, educational, and awareness-raising activities carried out across the UK and internationally.

Core Activities and Delivery Methods

To meet these objectives, the charity undertakes the following key activities:

1. Patient and Caregiver Support Services

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Our around-the-clock helpline and SMS support system provide direct access to emotional support and guidance, especially during critical out-of-hours periods.

Online and In-Person Support Groups: Regular monthly meetings are held online and face-to-face across the UK, including newly established groups in the Midlands, such as Northampton, and thriving existing groups like Ipswich, which averages 50 attendees per session.

Delivered free of charge to patients undergoing or recovering from treatment, these boxes include practical items and comfort aids such as Saliveze dry mouth spray, oral care products, and reassuring literature.

We produce and distribute printed leaflets, posters, and campaign materials to hospitals, dental surgeries, libraries, GP practices, and community centres to raise awareness of early signs and symptoms, and to promote our services.

HPV Vaccine Campaign in Schools (UK-Wide): Launched to raise awareness of the HPV vaccine for boys and its role in preventing head and neck cancers, delivered through schools, youth groups, and online engagement platforms.

Educational videos are produced and shared online and through NHS partners to inform the public and support newly diagnosed individuals.

The Swallows now supports hospitals and health professionals in 214 hospitals across Spain, 2 in the USA, 3 in Australia, and 1 in New Zealand, creating an international family of head and neck cancer advocates.

Fundraising Events and Restaurant Partnerships: Events like the launch of the Restaurant Card at Cinco’s Mexican Restaurant on 31st March 2025 promote community involvement and generate income to sustain support services.

We empower survivors and caregivers to lead support efforts in their communities, ensuring the voice of lived experience remains central to everything we do.

You may choose to include further statements, where relevant, about:

Additional Statements

 Policy on Grant making

The Swallows Head & Neck Cancer Charity actively seeks and administers external grants to fund specific projects that align with our charitable aims namely the support, education, and empowerment of individuals affected by head and neck cancer. All grant funding is applied in accordance with the objectives agreed upon by the trustees, ensuring full transparency and measurable outcomes. Notable recent grant funding includes:

We maintain strict governance processes for all grant-related activity, including internal monitoring and post-grant impact reporting.

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Future considerations may include investment in digital infrastructure or long-term awareness campaigns, always aligned with our charitable objectives and financial safeguards.

Contribution Made by Volunteers Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do and continue to make a profound contribution to the reach and success of the charity.

Their collective contribution is invaluable—offering time, empathy, and real-world understanding. Without our volunteer team, many of our services would not be possible.

Section D Achievements and performance

Summary of the main achievements of the charity during the year

Summary of the Main Achievements of the Charity During the Year Over the past year, The Swallows Head & Neck Cancer Charity has made significant strides in supporting patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals affected by head and neck cancers across the UK and internationally. Key achievements include:

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Section D Achievements and performance

Impact Statement: The Swallows Head & Neck Cancer Charity Over the past year, The Swallows Head & Neck Cancer Charity has continued to grow its impact across the UK and internationally, delivering on its mission to ensure that no one affected by head and neck cancer feels alone. Through a combination of patient-focused services, caregiver support, professional collaboration, and public education, our charity has created life-changing connections and vital access to resources during the most difficult of times.

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Section D Achievements and performance


Resources and Awareness

We distributed over 150 Swallows Support Boxes to patients
undergoing treatment—packed with items that offer comfort, care,
and a sense of solidarity.

More than 2,000 awareness leaflets and posters were delivered to
hospitals, GP surgeries, dental clinics, libraries, and community
spaces, improving understanding of head and neck cancer and
where to seek help.

The launch of our Restaurant Card at Cinco’s Mexican Restaurant
in March 2025 helped raise awareness of eating and swallowing
challenges, creating a more inclusive environment for those
recovering from treatment.

Collaboration and Education

Thanks to the £12,000 grant from Get A-Head Charity, we
expanded support group coverage across the Midlands,
enhanced volunteer outreach, created new awareness materials
and films, and initiated new hospital partnerships.

Our International Head & Neck Cancer Conference 2024 was
attended by hundreds of patients, caregivers, volunteers, and
healthcare professionals. Many were only able to attend due to
our funded travel and accommodation support.

We proudly launched the Suzanne Vanderell Research Award,
empowering young researchers with financial support and a
global platform to present their work.

Human Impact
From a late-night phone call to a patient in distress, to a caregiver finding
relief in a group meeting, or a young researcher sharing their findings at
our international conference—the Swallows community delivers comfort,
empowerment, and connection when it is needed most.
Testimonials
We will be eternally grateful.
It’s definitely a 5 star🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟award from us.
Take care
Daphene
Caregiver
I first had contact with The Swallows Charity after seeking advice for my
mum who has swallowing issues following radiotherapy. Chris was so
helpful and supportive, sending out a support box and advising on
different mouth washes and mouth sprays. I have continued to have links
with the charity, not only on a personal level but also a professional level
as I work with Head and Neck cancer patients. The charity is wonderful,
both Chris and Sharon are amazing - providing support and advice as
well as increasing public awareness of Head and Neck Cancer. The
annual conference along with their monthly support meetings are so
beneficial for so many survivors. I wouldn't hesitate to signpost family,
friends or my patients to this charity, and I would definitely give them 5
stars
🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Debbie
Senior Physiotherapy Support Worker
I will be forever grateful to my dentist and the consultant and his team
who operated and looked after me. The NHS is truly wonderful.
I have a life changing condition, but I am thankful for every day. I know

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Section D Achievements and performance

how fortunate it was that the cancer was caught early. Like everyone, I really do worry about the future. All sorts of thoughts occupy my mind at certain times of the day and night, these are a natural part of the future, but I hope to continue with a positive frame of mind and live and enjoy each day as best I can. I have very recently been diagnosed with pre cancer and so here we go again on the journey. I am so glad I can share my thoughts and feelings with the Swallows Family on the Zoom meetings for moral support. Family and friends are lovely, but they do not understand as fellow cancer sufferers (for want of a better word) do, so long live the Swallows Charity. Susan Patient My name is Karen and you recently, and very kindly, sent me a box of goodies. I just wanted to say a ‘Great Big Thank You’ for your gift box. The contents are helping me with my mouth and throat after 4 weeks of radiotherapy to my neck. It is overwhelming, but the kindness of people and their wanting to help others is heartwarming. I've had a tough 18 months, firstly with my mum being diagnosed with Lymphoma, then myself with the same cancer 10 months later. Unfortunately, my chemotherapy didn't erase all my cancer, hence the radiotherapy. I have seen you have a JustGiving page, I shall be making a donation on there, so you can carry on sending out these wonderful boxes which DO make a big difference to those in need. Your kindness and thoughtfulness mean more than I can express. Thank You again Karen Patient The Swallows Head and Neck Charity is one of the most valuable resources us head and neck cancer patients have. From running an informative and innovative annual conference to being available for help and advice on a 24 hour basis, they have wonderfully filled a void in cancer care. They run regular meetings and have particularly good caregiver support. Caregiver support is a hugely neglected aspect of care. They provide support boxes full of all sorts of mouth goodies. I received one early in my recovery and found everything useful. I volunteer for Macmillan, and I frequently signpost people to the Swallows. Dani Support Worker

Section E Financial review

Reserves Policy Statement

Brief statement of the charity’s policy on reserves

The Swallows Head & Neck Cancer Charity maintains a reserves policy to ensure financial stability and continuity of core services in the event of unforeseen circumstances. The trustees have reviewed the financial needs of the charity and determined that it is prudent to hold unrestricted reserves equivalent to three to six months of operating costs . This allows the charity to:  Continue delivering essential support services (including the 24/7 9 Charities Commission

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The reserves are reviewed annually by the trustees in line with the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit and financial governance. Any surplus above the agreed threshold is considered for reinvestment into service expansion, innovation, or strategic development projects that align with our charitable objectives.

Details of any funds materially in deficit

Not applicable

Further financial review details (Optional information)

You may choose to include additional information, where relevant about:

Additional Financial Information Principal Sources of Funds

The Swallows Head & Neck Cancer Support Charity’s principal sources of income include grants from charitable trusts and foundations (notably the Get A-Head Charity), individual donations, regular fundraising campaigns, corporate partnerships, and proceeds from public awareness events such as our annual International Head & Neck Cancer Conference. The launch of restaurant fundraising initiatives, like the Swallows Restaurant Card at Cinco's Mexican Restaurant, has also contributed to community-based fundraising efforts.

Use of Funds and Support of Key Objectives

Expenditure during the year has been carefully aligned with our charitable objectives. Funding has directly supported:

These initiatives continue to ensure that no one affected by head and neck cancer is left feeling isolated, and that critical resources are available at every stage of their journey.

Investment Policy and Ethical Considerations

The Swallows Charity adopts a cautious and ethical approach to the management of its financial reserves. Surplus funds are held in interestbearing accounts with reputable UK financial institutions to ensure security and liquidity.

The charity does not currently engage in high-risk investment activity and avoids investments in industries or entities that conflict with our charitable values, such as those involved in tobacco, alcohol, or unethical healthcare practices.

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Section F Other optional information

During the reporting period:

The charity remains committed to transparency, strong governance, and adherence to all regulatory responsibilities to ensure the integrity of its operations and the trust of its supporters and beneficiaries.

Section G Declaration

The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report above.

Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees

Signature(s)
Full name(s) Andrew Grice Norman Hill
Position (eg Secretary, Chair, Chair Trustee
etc)
Date 11/11/25

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THE SWALLOWS HEAD & NECK CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Charity number: 1149794 1[st] April 2024 to 31[st] March 2025

Receipts and payments accounts

Unrestricted Restricted Endowment Total Funds Last year
Funds Funds Funds
£ £ £ £ £
Receipts
Grants/Sponsorship received 2500 53552 56052 65252
Shop takings 0 13454
Donations 51225 51225 22653
Just giving 0 10723
Fundraising 13175 13175 240
Bank interest received 563 563 424
Total 67463 53552 0 121015 112747
Payments(revenue expenses)
Payroll 44601 44601 42446
Conference 9000 15000 24000 30000
Rent/Rates/Room hire/Storage 7494 2269 9763 19203
Core 20 project 0 8104
Marketing - Website/Printing / Advertising 1198 9799 10996 13811
HNCC 0 1373
Professional fees 950 9091 10041 3517
Patient grants and support 239 239 3261
Travel, Food, Mileage & Subsistence 2786 6032 8817 12596
Subscriptions/Licenses 382 382 4707
IT Equipment/services and software 4641 4641 2159
Utilities: Electric/Gas/Phone/Water 1024 1024 1554
Insurance 660 660 258
Postage 4361 4361 4076
HR and training 84 84 0
Sundry 175 175 1774
EPOS System 0 345
Repairs & Maintenance 4 4 157
Just giving cost 0 0
Fundraising costs 72 72 930
Speak Unique 798 798
Accountancy 1384 1384 0
Bank charges 6 6 343
79619 42429 0 122048 150613
Surplus/(Deficit) for year -12156 11123 0 -1033 -37866
Cash funds last year end brought forward 23317 2000 0 25317
Cash funds this year end carried forward 11161 13123 0 24284

THE SWALLOWS HEAD & NECK CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Charity number: 1149794 1[st] April 2024 to 31[st] March 2025

Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the period Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the period Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the period
Cash & Bank Funds
Cash
Current a/c
Savings #1
Savings #2		 £
£
£
2209
2000
3249
5703
11123
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Endowment
Funds		 Total Funds
£
0
4209
3249
16826
11161
13123
0		 24284
Estimated
Assets Fund Owner Value
£
Storage deposit 891
Estimated
Liabilities Fund Liable Amount When due
£
PAYE Unrestricted 750 Apr-24

Signed ~~…………………………~~ andrew grice (Nov 11, 2025 12:30:46 GMT) ……. andrew grice Name ………………………………. Nov 11, 2025 Date ……………………………….

Restricted Funds Flow
Get A-Head (Patient Support, ongoing)
GSK (Conference)
MacMillan (Awareness)
Saturday Trust (Patient Support, ongoing)
Unrestricted
Restricted + Unrestricted		 Income
Expenditure
Opening
Balance		 Closing
Balance
0
24000
12877
0
15000
15000
0
14552
14552
2000
0
0		 11123
0
0
2000
2000
53552
42429		 13123
23317
67463
79619		 11161
25317
121015
122048		 24284

Swallows receipts and payments accounts 24

25

Final Audit Report

2025-11-11

Created: 2025-11-11 By: Chris Curtis (chris@theswallows.org.uk) Status: Signed Transaction ID: CBJCHBCAABAAILXy75ci8qP-dtpYGDM8SUhhiEEW1Mmu

"Swallows receipts and payments accounts 24 25" History

2025-11-11 - 12:25:56 PM GMT

Document emailed to andrew.grice@sjpp.co.uk for signature

2025-11-11 - 12:27:42 PM GMT

Signature Date: 2025-11-11 - 12:30:46 PM GMT - Time Source: server

Agreement completed.

2025-11-11 - 12:30:46 PM GMT

Independent examiner's report on the accounts

Section A Independent Examiner’s Report

Report to the trustees/ The Swallows Head and Neck Cancer Support Group members of

On accounts for the year 31/12/25 Charity no 1149794
ended (if any)

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity (“the Trust”) for the year ended

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity trustees of the Trust, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).

I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.

Independent examiner's statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

|Signed:|||Date:|11/11/25
~~|~~|11/11/25
~~|~~| |---|---|---|---|---|---| |Name:|Andy Moore||||| |Address:|Blaenpentre Swyddffynnon, SY25 6AW|||||