It's Beautiful Spring 2023

Welcome to our Spring issue! We finally feel like bouncing into the better weather with the Easter bunnies! So, ladies, how about jumping into a new fitness routine with a specialist coach on page 7? If you love all things wellbeing, meet the owner of the new Wellbeing Pod on page 20. The wedding season is here so, find advice from an expert photographer and fabulous venue from page 16. Start filling your calendar with the latest events from page 22 and don’t forget your flags and bunting for the Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort on Saturday 6 May. Have a wonderful Spring!

it’s Beautiful

7 Lower Brook Street, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 2HG Telephone: 07986 293294

Joint Managing Directors David Lee-Birch david@oswestrylife.co.uk

Tracy Leonard tracy@oswestrylife.co.uk

Editor Victoria Jane McKenna victoria@oswestrylife.co.uk

Production Designer Aileen Selkirk aileen@oswestrylife.co.uk

Advertising info@itsbeautiful.co.uk

Editorial info@itsbeautiful.co.uk

www.itsbeautiful.co.uk

Victoria McKenna EDITOR

SPRING SKIN CARE

Spring is a time for new beginnings, and what better way to refresh your skin and treat yourself than with a Heaven facial? Designed to rejuvenate and renew your skin, here are just a few reasons why they are important at this time of the year:

• Say goodbye to winter skin: Winter weather can cause lots of issues for our skin, leaving it feeling dry, dull and flaky. A facial exfoliatesß away the dead skin cells to reveal a healthier, brighter complexion.

• Prep your skin for the summer: It’s the perfect time to prep your skin for the summer months. A facial unclogs pores, reduces the appearance of blemishes and improves skin texture ready for when the weather warms up.

• Address seasonal skin concerns: Spring can bring with it many concerns, including allergies, sun damage and increased oil production. We can target our treatments and products to tackle your specific skin issues.

• Relax and rejuvenate: Let’s face it, life is stressful at the moment so we could all use a little relaxation. What better way to unwind and escape, and take some time for yourself!

Treat Yourself to One Of Heaven’s Famous Facials: Each facial combines a series of my unique hands-on techniques. Yes, the visible results are long-lasting, but they will also leave you feeling totally de-stressed.

Our Collagen Facial is just the boost you skin needs. Centred around our innovative Collagen Drops, it combines the very best anti-ageing products with unique hands-on massage techniques.

My Bee Peel Facial blends a spa-like approach with an advanced skincare formula. It banishes blemishes, dark spots and dullness for a healthy complexion.

Discover the secret to a youthfullooking complexion with my Nettle Venom Facial. It’s 100% plant-based and targets tell-tale signs of tiredness and ageing

Call to book your Spring facial on 01952 461888

Heaven Health & Beauty Ltd, 13a Market Place, Shifnal, Shropshire, TF11 9AU

Tuesday: 9am-6pm Wednesday: 9am-6pm Thursday: 9am-8pm

Friday: 9am-6pm Saturday: 9am-5pm Mon & Sun: Closed salon@heavenskincare.com

As we age, so too does our skin. As our levels of collagen production begins to drop, we start noticing fine lines, our faces may feel dryer and we lose that youthful plumpness we took for granted in our 20s. Add in sun exposure and lifestyle factors such as smoking and diet, and it’s no surprise we start needing specialist skin care for wrinkles.

Heaven’s exclusive range of anti-ageing skincare products and anti-ageing skincare sets help to smooth out those fine lines and wrinkles, boosting hydration to leave you looking and feeling your best. From highly nourishing moisturisers to our innovative collagen range, we offer the perfect solutions for mature skin care.

Deborah says: “Whatever your age, it’s never too late to make changes that can help repair, tighten and protect. If you’ve relied on the same products for years, or even decades, then I recommend exploring anti-ageing sets and upgrading your routine with more specific skin care for mature skin.”

skincare for perimenopause

The perimenopause – before the menopause kicks in – can bring lots of changes to your complexion. For most women it happens in your mid-40s and can last up to four years before the menopause starts. Periods become irregular and you may start to experience hot flushes.

When it comes to your complexion, breakouts become the norm. This is because the decrease in oestrogen starts to impact you skin’s natural defences, triggering spots and acne. If you have normally balanced skin, it may become red, and dry patches and rosacea may develop. Continuing my series of blogs, here are my skincare pro-tips.

PRO-TIP 1: tackling hot flushes

If you start to feel sudden heat around your face, neck and chest then you need something that can help calm you skin.

Keep a bottle of Collagen Face & Body Mist it in the fridge to cool and invigorate. Use top to toe to firm and refine skin, lift your spirits and boost energy levels too. On top of that, you can use it to set your makeup. So many great uses in one great product!

PRO-TIP 2: introduce a serum

If you’ve not used a serum before now is the time to start. Apply to your face and neck straight after cleansing and before you moisturise.

My new Collagen Serum Oil contains a clever blend of Collagen Drops with hyaluronic acid, essential neroli oil, and vitamins C and E. Together, they improve hydration, tackle breakouts and soothe redness, and reduce inflammation.

PRO-TIP 3 target dry skin issues

Because dry skin can be itchy and more sensitive, you need organic products that rebalance, hydrate and heal.

My signature Silver Bee Venom Mask contains revolutionary ABEETOXIN® to tighten, firm and lift, penetrating fine lines and wrinkles. It’s healing properties make it perfect for those who suffer from blemishes, rosacea, eczema, dry and mature skin.

menopause beauty boosts

In the second of my two-part menopause skincare blog, I reveal the essential beauty boosts to beat the break-outs, tackle pores and restore your crowningw glory.

PRO TIP 1: acne and breakouts …

During then menopause hormone levels start to drop and you may find that you start to develop spots and breakouts. For an extra deep detox, try Willowbee® Mask & Cleanse. It contains bark from the willow tree, which has natural antiinflammatory and healing properties. Massage into your skin after cleansing and leave on for 10 minutes before rinsing. You can also apply before bedtime and wash off the next morning.

pro tip 2: enlarged pores …

Anyone who has enlarged pores will know just how frustrating they can be. You may have tried countless products to minimise them, but to no avail. Keeping skin squeaky clean is a must, so make sure you are cleansing every morning and every night. My Cleanse and Foam Wash is a non-abrasive exfoliator, toner and cleanser in one to balance oil levels while repairing skin. It improves elasticity levels while balancing oil levels to reduce shine on your T-Zone.

pro tip 3: give you hair some tlc …

During menopause you may find that your hair grows more slowly and becomes much thinner. This is due to the decrease in oestrogen and progesterone. Collagen is known to boost hair volume, growth and regeneration. My Collagen Drops contain a range vitamins and minerals – including marine collagen, glucosamine, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and Biotin. Easy to use, you can add a few drops to supercharge your shampoo and conditioner.

Why you should find a female focussed fitness coach

From a personal trainer’s perspective, educating female clients about changes to their bodies as they meet certain age-related milestones, is as important as exercise. By her 40s and 50s, changes to a woman’s pelvic health and perimenopause symptoms are often impacting body confidence and women are finding that the diets or exercise they tried before aren’t working anymore. That’s because their bodies have changed, and different strategies are needed.

Haughton based Women’s Health & Fitness Coach, Siân Pugh explains, “A whole-body approach is needed. Health and fitness aren’t just about squats or endless cardio to get the body we want. Much of the fitness industry still thinks women are small men, but over 40 the best results come from addressing sleep and stress management, hydration, bladder and bowel health and what we eat. Layering this with strength training is absolutely the best thing for any woman to boost how she looks and feels.

“Calorie counting and strict regimes just won’t work long term. My services are niche and I also focus on pelvic floor recovery and preparation for and return to exercise post surgeries (of which I hold qualifications for). Women who’ve had a hysterectomy or prolapse surgery are rarely offered support to return to exercise and so I help them to live the active life they may not have believed they could have. Again, stress levels, sleep quality, pelvic health, bladder and bowel health and what you eat all play a part in your fitness journey and post-surgery too.”

Siân has two children, and the needs of mums haven’t escaped her. Returning to exercise after children can be daunting. New mums are often unsure how to address core and pelvic health and are subject to the unhelpful ‘bounceback’ phenomena across social media.

At 44, Siân has achieved a wealth of expertise in

READEROFFER:

female focussed fitness, loves helping women to build confidence in and about their body again and is keen to help others in their perimenopausal journey.

“By studying peri-post menopause health and fitness, my aim is to help women to feel confident in, and about their bodies. I get what they are going through and how best to prioritise themselves amidst the pressures of a busy home and career.”

Having launched Fresh Start Fitness back in 2012 after leaving a successful career in PR behind, Siân has gone through the stages a lot of women find themselves in. Whilst working the 9-5 in PR, fitness had never been a priority for her until she hired her own personal trainer!

“I had never exercised much before, let alone felt any good at it and the gym felt like a scary place, so I decided to invest in a personal trainer. She showed me that exercise can be enjoyable AND make you feel amazing, and she clearly got satisfaction from helping others. I felt I could help other women like me to understand and look after their bodies in a supportive environment. Exercise is often seen as intimidating or something you have to be good at, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. I wanted to help other women realise that.”

Long-term client Helen, who turned 50 last year said, “Siân changed my relationship with my body. The holistic approach allows for permanent lifestyle change and not quick fix, unsustainable strategies.”

Debra, 44 said, “She creates achievable workouts and makes me feel confident to progress and never intimidated because of her friendly, down to earth, reallife approach.”

For more information visit freshstartfitness.uk, email Sian@freshstartfitness.uk, call 07780 607982, or follow @FreshStartPT.

Siân has two personal training slots available and is offering a 10% discount on 6 sessions of personal training to readers who contact her (on a first come first served basis).

Siân changed my relationship with my body. The holistic approach allows for permanent lifestyle change and not quick fix, unsustainable strategies.

Booka complimentary 15minutecalltochataboutyourneedsat freshstartfitness.uk

Radiant Skin: Discover the Power of ENDYMED Radiofrequency this Spring

Now the lighter nights are here, and the thought of al fresco gatherings and holidays are on the horizon, it’s time to shed those layers and embrace the warmer weather! Whether you’re planning a holiday, attending a special event, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, it’s important to feel your best. However, if the long winter has left your skin feeling dull and tired, we can offer an antidote to your plight with our advanced skin tightening treatment, ENDYMED Radiofrequency.

Our ENDYMED treatment was launched nearly two years ago at Elite, and since then it has become a staple part of many of our client’s treatment journeys due to the incredible results it can yield. Here you can see some of the wonderful results achieved from treatments at Elite. So, how does it work? ENDYMED treatments use an advanced form of radiofrequency energy to heat deep within the skin where collagen is formed. This heat causes an instant lift as your existing collagen contracts, but it also triggers a heat response in your skin that stimulates fibroblasts to produce new collagen, which is what gives you the natural, long-lasting results in skin tightening and lifting. The heat response also triggers other rejuvenating processes in your skin, improving its overall underlying structure and hydration. After each treatment, as your collagen contracts, you will have an immediate lift and a healthy glow, however optimum results will be seen 3 months after your treatment course once the new collagen has been produced.

ENDYMED is suitable for all skin types and has an excellent safety profile. Treatments are pain-free, most clients find them very relaxing. And the best part? There’s no downtime! Each treatment will last between 45 and 90 minutes depending on the area that you’re having treated, and it’s recommended that you follow a course of six treatments over eight weeks. You can then return for ‘top-up’ treatments every three months to maintain and enhance the results that you’ve already seen. If you’d like to find out more about this treatment and see it in action, be sure to check out our website www.eliteskinstudio. co.uk and our social media platforms!

We are currently offering the opportunity to experience the ENDYMED treatment free of charge with a complimentary consultation and trial treatment. Simply call 01952 814200 to book or scan our QR code which can be found on the previous page.

Elite Skin Studio specialises in a tailored approach to every skin and can help all matter of aesthetic concerns such as age management, problematic skin, and permanent reduction of unwanted hair. If you are interested to see how we can help you with your personal skin goals, book in for a skin analysis to begin your journey today. You can give us a call on 01952 814200 or book online at eliteskinstudio.co.uk

Into the light

by Lucy Murphy

It’s official! Spring has arrived and it brings with it a fresh new feel and a change in hair colours and tones, we are stepping out of the dark season and into the light.

We have been seeing honey tones everywhere and we love it, cool ashy winter blondes are taking a step back and the natural warm, sun kissed lights are coming through.

Springtime is calling in light honey, teddy bear blondes and soft coppers.

These tones are fabulous for helping to bring a natural GLOW to your skin and REFLECT the light to give you a goddess glow. Just what we all need after a long winter season.

For inspiring honeys, look at Adele, Beyoncé, Amelia Dimoldenberg and Jennifer Coolidge.

Deep Coffee Brunettes

For our brunette ladies, it’s all about the natural darker tones, on trend with the second season of “Emily in Paris”.

Deep espresso and earthy brunette with classic full coverage locks are back. They give a chic, feminine and classy European style. For inspiration look to Selina Gómez, Selma Hayek, Mila Kunis, Dakota Johnson and Angela Bassett.

Mink Mi D t ones

Bronze and metallic tones are a big hit this season with the (Bronde) shades, following on with springtime’s warm vibes. Velvet grey with a rich base is stealing the show when it comes to mid tones - it’s all about the natural glossy and glazed sheens.

Minks, bronze and metallics have a rich depth with a cool hue that give the perfect natural look, with underlying tones of lavender and grey, this trend is definitely one of our favourites to suit all ages. Think Jennifer Anderson, Taylor Swift, Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney.

In keeping with the warmer tones, this season is seeing coppers and rich golden reds are definitely coming through. Fiery and golden tones are on the scene and give a beautiful golden hour shine to red bases.  When looking for fiery inspiring females, check out Jessica Chastain, Sophie Turner and Lindsay Lohan.

Blue Mood

the mood for Spring/Summer 23 is indigo denim. this makes life easy because most of us have some in the wardrobe! but how to make it more interesting? Add different textures in the form of cable knits, embroidery and prints like this…

Daytime

Denim Plait Pocket Jacket £75, www.oliverbonas.com; Cable Cardigan in China Blue £32, www.cottontraders.com; Cream Relaxed Trousers £139.99 www2.hm.com

Relax

High-Waisted Flared Denim Jeans £18, www.primark.com; Talitha Print Blouse £55, www.monsoon.co.uk

e vening

Embellished Denim Blouse £119.99, www2.hm.com; Black Loungewear Trousers £49.99, www2.hm.com; Gianetta gold £80, www.dunelondon.com

a stylish Wedding Photogra P her

James Anthony, an award-winning wedding photographer, has built a reputation for excellence in capturing the most memorable moments for Brides and Grooms. With a photography brand called James Anthony Weddings, he offers a unique approach to wedding photography that blends creativity and fashion. James shares his expertise about choosing one of the most important elements of your wedding day.

Fashionable Style

Photographers come with all sorts of backgrounds, so you should decide what style of photos you want. As I previously worked as a fashion photographer in London, I have a fresh, stylish perspective to wedding photography that is unmatched by many others in Shropshire and the Midlands. My fashion experience has allowed me to create a unique, fashionable approach to my wedding photography, providing clients with stunning images that truly capture the essence of their wedding day.

Relax

James Anthony Weddings work closely with couples and their wedding guests to create a relaxed, informal atmosphere that makes everyone feel comfortable should

be a priority. This approach results in images that are full of emotion and genuine connection. You should find your photographer unobtrusive but professional. As a seasoned wedding photographer, I pride myself on navigating even the most challenging situations on the big day. With years of experience, I’ve learned to work in stealth mode, blending seamlessly into the background while capturing all the important moments.

Destination Weddings

Having worked globally, I understand that organising everything in a foreign country may present its own difficulties. My unique photography style sets me apart from other wedding photographers. I have a keen eye for detail and can capture moments that often go unnoticed, resulting in a collection of images that perfectly encapsulate the essence of the day. Whether working with natural or artificial lighting, I am skilled in utilising a variety of lighting scenarios to create a range of different looks throughout the day.

Drone and Video

Having a photographer that also offers these services means you don’t need to hire a separate videographer.

I offer drone and video, meaning you can have a complete wedding documentation service package that includes all the visual elements of your special day. If you feel a little out of depth with video, requesting art direction from me as part of the package is a great touch as I plan everything out for you beforehand.

Post-production Images

Our post-production process is just as necessary as the shooting process, and we take great care to ensure that each image is retouched and graded to perfection. It’s the attention to detail – making sure the Bride and Groom are looking amazing and any retouches and grades to the guests and environment are taken with care.

The Wedding Album

Another important decision – do you, or don’t you? We offer some great alternatives such as coffee table books, prints and framed or canvas artwork. Ever considered a Paparazzi evening event and photo booth? They are two of our most popular packages. Invite the top table for a private party to view the results - a great way to celebrate again with your favourite people.

James Anthony has some final advice for brides and grooms, “A professional approach, unique style, and dedication to quality post-production work, makes a top choice for couples seeking a photographer who can perfectly capture the magic of their wedding day.

“Having been in the industry for 10 years now, our couples are the essential part of what we do, and of

course, without them, their trust in our ability and service, we are not in business. Keeping an eye for detail and capturing moments that often go unnoticed, result in a collection of images that perfectly encapsulate the essence of the day.”

Visit www.jamesanthonyweddings.co.uk to discover the James Anthony wedding collections, where a free Paparazzi Event photography session is on offer. Call 07545 548944 or email jamesnader@me.com

Instagram: @jamesanthonyweddings

Facebook: @jamesanthonyweddingphotography

5 Reasons Why You Should get Married in a Private Venue

Your wedding day is one of the most important events in your lifetime. Choosing the right venue for your needs can take away the stress and anxiety one associates with the planning. The average couple takes 18 months to organise their big day so, using one venue is an obvious choice if you want to set your focus on managing your other suppliers to deliver exceptional services for your wedding.

Ruth Davies, Manager at High Grosvenor House, near Bridgnorth, explains why considering the following are crucial to the smooth running of your day.

1LOCATION – You will want your surroundings to reflect you as a couple and beautiful views make beautiful photos. We have always had wonderful feedback from couples about the stunning Shropshire views from High Grosvenor House and it is an amazing picture that meets you when you first approach the House through the gates. It is a 15th Century Tudor house, so choosing such a building steeped in history, brings an exclusive experience for everyone involved.

2ACCOMMODATION – Is it important to have rooms on site available for the bridal party and for hosts of any type of celebration. It helps the most important people of the day relax knowing they are already where they need to be and so the venue can then cater for their needs quickly and to any last-minute changes - which can happen. With 5 double ensuite bedrooms sleeping up to 10, High Grosvenor House can deliver exclusivity with enough accommodation for a private occasion. We also have two extra cottages for hire, and Bell Tents for overflow guests and ample parking.

3

COORDINATION – Having a team within the venue is vital to help co-ordinate exactly what you need for your big day. It’s also important to consider that a tight-knit team are going to be able to communicate quickly with you for every request.

Myself, our Executive Chef and our dedicated Events Coordinator at High Grosvenor House, are able steer you through any plans you have and help each step of the way. We ensure only one event is held at the House on any one day, so you will not find any other guests other than your own, during your wedding. The whole estate is yours from the morning before your big day until the day after.

Don’t forget you will need to taste your wedding food once you have chosen your menu. We have gone one step further for our Brides and Grooms – we can serve canapés and evening food from our horse trailer that houses a pizza oven!

4CAPACITY – Another headline requirement for couples. Why? Because it can determine who comes to the wedding and who is an evening guest. Combining the rooms lets us accommodate up to 100 guests for the wedding breakfast or they can be divided into smaller areas for the numbers you need. Well-behaved pets are most welcome to be by your side on your special day.

5CAPTURING THE MOMENT – When you book your wedding photographer, they will want to explore the setting before the big day to make sure they get the best and most romantic shots for you. When you come to Shropshire, you can’t deny the beautiful rolling countryside and at High Grosvenor, we have exquisite views that can’t be matched.

Having an area such as our beautiful Italian Garden Room also gives opportunity for indoor settings should the weather turn. With bi-fold doors and a roof that tilts to literally open up day and night, it’s a stunning space.

High Grosvenor House is also available to hire for corporate functions – from intimate lunches or meetings in the house, to full-blown conferences in the function room and garden room. Every single type of celebration can be entertained for. The venue has hosted events such as luncheon clubs, music and dancing, baby showers and christenings, birthdays, anniversaries and most sensitively, funerals.

For more information visit highgrosvenor.co.uk, call 01746 572055 or email house@highgrosvenor.co.uk

A CTIVE INGREDIENTS

It sometimes feels like you need a science degree to decode skincare ingredients lists. so we thought it was time to explain some of the most common active ingredients and why you might want them.

Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid helps skin to lock in moisture. By doing so, it makes skin plumper and softer, and smooths out wrinkles. If your skin feels dry, dehydrated or tight, you’d likely benefit from adding hyaluronic acid to your daily skincare routine. Don’t be put off by the name – hyaluronic acid won’t burn or irritate your skin.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide is a type of vitamin B3. It’s a real multitasker – keeping skin hydrated, improving texture and reducing redness, irritation and dark spots. It also helps to protect your skin and boost cell renewal.

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)

There are several types of AHAs, the most common being glycolic acid and lactic acid. They’re mainly used to exfoliate skin – removing dead cells to reveal brighter, smoother skin. Be warned though, AHAs can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so always wear sunscreen, even on cold and cloudy days. If your skin is particularly sensitive, you might want to stick to lactic acid, which is less likely to cause irritation.

Try this...

CBD (cannabidiol)

CBD is extracted from hemp. It calms and balances the skin, reducing inflammation, redness and acne. It’s also an antioxidant, so helps to protect your skin from environmental damage.

Retinol

A form of vitamin A, retinol boosts cell renewal to make skin look brighter and fresher. It can reduce fine lines, scarring and sun damage. On the downside, it can cause dryness and irritation, so you’ll want to start off with a low concentration and work your way up. You’ll also need to combine it with a decent moisturiser and SPF.

Vitamin C

While vitamin C can’t replace sunscreen, it does helps to protect your skin from UV rays, pollution and other environmental factors. It also helps skin to heal, reduces dark patches and makes skin more radiant.

Peptides

Peptides are a type of amino acid. They boost collagen and elastin so can make your skin look firmer and plumper.

HALF PRICE ONLINE OFFER

Looking for a great all-rounder? (and a bargain to boot). Try Olay’s new Vitamin C + AHA24 range. It combines Vitamin C, niacinamide and lactic acid to brighten and soften skin, increase hydration and reduce uneven pigmentation. The serum and moisturiser which have been gathering rave reviews since they were launched, normally cost £38 each from www.boots.com though you can now grab a bargain and pick them up for £19, as part of their offers on Olay Vitamin C and niacinamide products bought online only. Hurry, this offer won’t last long!

(Offer available at time of going to press)

Wellbeing Newport business launches Wellbeing Pod

Gail from Meridian Life has been an established face in Newport for the last three years, having set up her crystal shop in Newport Indoor Market.

Over the last three years her business has grown from strength to strength, and she has recently launched her Meridian Wellbeing Pod!

Gail spent over 25 years in sales and marketing management roles in the house building industry. She said, “Although I loved my job, I found I was being called along a different path in life, that path being to help others on a 1:2:1 basis through my love of all things holistic.

“I was practicing yoga and meditation on a daily basis myself, along with using crystals to help with my health and I found that the combination was doing wonders for my wellbeing. Then one day I decided it was time to take the leap and have a complete change of career! It was definitely the right decision!”

Gail’s Meridian Wellbeing Pod was officially opened on Tuesday 28 February, and she welcomed her first client in the following day for a crystal healing.

Gail said, “I have spent many months looking for the right place to open a studio and all the time it was right under my nose – our beautiful garden! I wanted to create a little haven for clients to come and totally relax, and I feel that I have achieved just that.”

The Wellbeing Pod is designed around working with clients on a 1:2:1 basis with therapies such as crystal healing, reiki, yoga, meditation, mindfulness and coaching, helping clients to rebalance and feel better in themselves on a physical, mental, emotional and spiritual level.

From May, Gail will be offering half and full day 1:2:1 retreats which will be bespoke to each individual client and could include any of the above treatments along with relaxation time in the established garden or a guided canal walk in the surrounding countryside.

The unique purple pod is located in a quiet spot of Shropshire, just five miles out of Newport. Situated in a tranquil garden with off road parking, it is the perfect spot to indulge in a little time of your own, a chance to escape, getaway and leave feeling rejuvenated and at one with yourself.

Gail has just celebrated her 3rd birthday with

her crystal stand at Newport Indoor Market and she will continue to be present every Friday and Saturday advising people of the benefits of using crystals for healing and your overall wellbeing.

Gail also offers bi-monthly retreat days as well as yoga and meditation workshops locally. She works closely with several businesses delivering yoga sessions and corporate wellbeing events.

If you would like to chat or book an appointment for a 1:2:1 session with Gail in her Meridian Wellbeing Pod, call her on 07917 787617, email gail.meridianlife@gmail.com or visit www.meridianlife.co.uk Instagram and Facebook: /ameridianlife www.linktree.com/meridianlife

Waxin’ Lyrical With Classic Ibiza’s Superstar DJs

Over the last few months, the team behind Classic Ibiza has been busy dreaming up what they promise will be their best show yet. With the concert at Weston Park on Saturday 15 July just around the corner, we sat down with the shows two DJs, Goldierocks and Jose Luis, to ask them about Classic Ibiza and what you can expect from their sets this summer.

Goldierocks has been an integral member of the Classic Ibiza family since their very first show, bringing the party with her deep house classics and oodles of glamour. She also joins the Urban Soul Orchestra on the decks during the Sundowner and Dance Sets.

Ever wondered what it’s like to DJ with a 32 piece orchestra that has worked with the likes of Groove Armada and Robert Miles? Well, we asked her:

“Performing in front of thousands of people, backed by this immense wall of sound feels so powerful. It’s like you’re in a rocket-ship! I live and breathe dance music and getting to perform these iconic tracks with such depth and emotion, really is a wild ride.”

Jose Luis is a former Pacha (Ibiza) and Ministry of Sound (London) resident DJ. With credentials like that, you’d be forgiven to think he’d be pretty cool about the show. Jose’s reaction when we asked him for his thoughts couldn’t have been more different:

“Without a doubt, Classic Ibiza is the highlight of my summer! Seeing so many people, from babies to grandparents, dancing and having a great time to the music I’m playing is an incredibly rewarding experience.”

So, what can you expect from their DJ sets this summer?

We asked them both to give us a sneak preview.

Jose moved to the UK from Caracas in Venezuela in the ‘90s, so unsurprisingly his DJing style has been heavily influenced by his roots:

“The Latin vibe has become one of the biggest sounds of the last year, so I’m going deeper into it, not forgetting a few modern classics and some uncovered gems. My set this year also includes a live jamming session with members of the Urban Soul Orchestra - it’s gonna be awesome!”

Goldierocks’ Deep House DJ Set acts as an appetizer to the evening’s main event, when she’s joined on stage by the Urban Soul Orchestra for the Dance Set. Here’s what she said about the tracks she’ll be playing:

“Bottom shakers and sing your heart out deep house classics! High energy, summer feel good vibes, can’t stop moving beats… a mix of classic and brand new Ibiza anthems.”

This year’s show also includes 15 completely new tracks in an orchestral set of over 30 house classics. Performed by the Urban Soul Orchestra, live vocalists and Goldierocks, you can expect anthems from the likes of Faithless, The Chemical Brothers and Goldie like you’ve never heard them before. Goldierocks explains:

“We’re certainly not ones to rest on our laurels, so we freshen up and re-invent the show every year, from track selection to lighting and pyrotechnics, so it always feels new and exciting.”

If that’s not enough, this year’s show also includes a brand new Chill Out DJ Set - the perfect soundtrack to welcome you to Weston Park as you soak up that Classic Ibiza feeling.

Car-parking is free and there are no booking fees. You can even bring your own picnic. Local street food vendors and the San Miguel bar are also available on site.

Programme: 17:30: Car parks and gates open (Chill Out DJ Set)

18:30: Latin House DJ Set (Jose Luis) 20:00: San Miguel Sundowner Set (Urban Soul Orchestra & Goldierocks)

21:00: Deep House DJ Set (Goldierocks) 21:30: Dance Set & Laser Light Show (Urban Soul Orchestra & Goldierocks) Concert finishes.

Win 2 x tickets to the event

For details and to enter visit www.itsbeautiful.co.uk

Tickets: Adults (over 18s): £48, Children (aged 5–17): £24, Under 5s: free. To book, or for more information on this familyfriendly concert, visit: classicibiza.co.uk

Shrewsbury Folk Festival

Shrewsbury Folk Festival manages to combine a stellar line-up of folk, world music and Americana and slick production with a relaxed and friendly vibe, making it one of the most sought-after tickets for the August Bank Holiday weekend.

The festival has gained an international reputation for its eclectic line up, which this year includes Billy Bragg, Oysterband, The Dhol Foundation, Breabach, Jiggy, Talisk, and Californian roots band Dustbowl Revival as well as a whole host of other folk, roots and Americana bands. Set on a glorious riverside site in easy reach of the historic town centre, there’s four open air and covered music stages, a dance tent for ceilidhs and shows, dedicated festivals-within-a-festival to keep the kids and teens busy with music, dance, crafts and circus skills. There’s also workshops and activities for adults from yoga, crafts and countryside walks to singarounds and music sessions for the adults too.

An artisan shopping arena, food village, real ale and cocktail bars with on-site camping and glamping top off the perfect festival experience.

Director of the award-winning festival, Sandra Surtees,

Day and weekend tickets on sale now

said: “As we move into Spring, we’re already starting to get excited about what this year’s festival holds. As ever, our line up will bring a wide variety of music from folk and roots to world music to Shrewsbury and the chance to our festivalgoers to discover new artists and enjoy old favourites.

“But the festival’s about much more than just the music though. The festival is renowned for its friendly vibe and it’s just such a brilliant way to spend a weekend or day with family and friends, enjoying great music and dance, good food and the chance to kick back and relax in a beautiful riverside setting.”

Day and weekend tickets are on sale at www.shrewsburyfolkfestival.co.uk, starting from just £43 (including booking fee) | August 25th - 28th | West Midlands Showground, Berwick Road, Shrewsbury.

Featuring the best in folk, roots, Americana & world music

Workshops

Camping & glamping

Real ale, wine & cocktail bars

Artisan crafts Dance

Food village shrewsburyfolkfestival.co.uk

World Class Music Festival in Whittington

If you are thinking: ‘How can a small place like Whittington possibly have a world-class music festival?’, you wouldn’t be alone, but you would be wrong. Thanks to the energetic, creative and highly respected Artistic Director, Sophia Rahman, the festival, which has celebrated cellist Steven Isserlis as its Honorary Patron, regularly attracts international stars. Roderick Williams OBE, Baritone, will be singing at the Coronation service a fortnight before he comes to Whittington.

This year, from 17-21 May, you will hear music by Bach, Mozart, Schubert, Dvořák and Vaughan Williams, as well as by female composers such as Clara Schumann, Rebecca Clarke and Rachel Stott and seldom-heard works like Villa Lobos’s Bachianas Brasilieras No 5 for soprano and 8 cellos (well, 7 cellos and a double bass). You will be transported to India with a medley of Bollywood and Bengali melodies played by jazz duo Zoe and Idris Rahman.

Whittington is a hidden gem, as the excited comments of last year’s audience members show: ‘The programming and the quality of performance

were outstanding. The sheer joy of the performers was infectious’… ‘A total success. Brilliantly organized with some amazing performances in a beautiful building’… ‘All the concerts were excellent. They should have been a sell-out. Sophia Rahman is an exceptional person and you are very lucky to have her’.

But don’t take their word for it - experience the festival for yourself. Seats are numbered and tickets costing £18 are available from www.whittingtonmusicfestival.org. uk, where you will also find full details of artists and the programme. Admission is free for anyone aged 25 and under. See you there!

Classical • Film • Song

15 International Musicians with Roderick Williams OBE Baritone

Whittington International Chamber Music Festival takes place each May and brings International musicians to Shropshire for 5 days of concerts. For programme and tickets visit the website

www.whittingtonmusicfestival.org.uk

St John The Baptist Church

Last year’s festival

Shrewsbury will rock with The Christians

The Christians are enjoying a resurgence right now. They have just appeared around the UK as Special Guests of Go-Go’s front woman, Belinda Carlisle, and are also appearing alongside Level 42 on a 22-date tour in October.  Not bad considering it’s been a little while since they found fame with their many hits; Ideal World, Words, Hooverville, Whats in a Word, Harvest for the World, Forgotten Town and many more.

The band were always ‘cool’ and difficult to place (the name didn’t help – no religious connection – just the surname of the 3 brothers).  They hit the music scene in a big way in 1987 when their debut album (which still remains the UK’s selling debut album from any band) went triple platinum, selling on the popular label Island Records and their second

album COLOUR released in 1990, went to Number One (knocking a very disgruntled Phil Collins off the top spot).

The family grew up in Liverpool and often mimicked The Temptations by harmonising together, something that became synonymous – The Christians often referred to as, “The Temptations in ripped jeans”.

As with many 80s acts, the band are now busier than they’ve ever been says lead singer Garry Christian the very tall, ray-banned front man. “No disrespect to today’s artists, but I honestly think that people are lost in today’s music industry and long for the day when they could walk into a record store – talk to real people and listen to real music. The 80s and 90s were the last time music was normal, after that it went all weird with downloads and streaming and

a strange language where loving music became something you did ‘solitarily’ through headphones, alone. That wasn’t EVER what music was supposed to be about – it’s a bit like sex – much better with someone else there too!”

Catch THE CHRISTIANS at Theatre Severn in Shrewsbury, April 20, 2023. For tickets go to  www.thechristianslive.co.uk

Updating Your Skincare for Spring

by Caroline Louise Beauty and Makeup

As the cold winter months come to an end, it’s time to start thinking about updating your skincare routine for spring. With warmer weather and more sunshine, your skin’ needs change, and it’s important to switch up your products to keep your skin looking and feeling its best. Here are some tips for updating your skincare routine for spring:

1. Exfoliate regularly

During winter, your skin may become dry or flaky, which can lead to a build-up of dead skin cells and a dull complexion. Exfoliating regularly can help remove this build-up, leaving your skin looking brighter and more refreshed. Exfoliants can be separated into two types - chemical and physical. Those which work chemically, such as AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), do so by loosening the bonds between dead surface-layer cells and the radiant skin beneath. Physical exfoliants like scrubs or polishes use ingredients such as sea salt or bamboo silica and work using abrasive action to push the dead cells off. Whichever method you choose, look for gentle exfoliants that won’t damage your skin.

2. Switch to a lighter moisturiser

In winter, rich, creamy moisturisers are essential for keeping your skin hydrated and protected from the cold, dry air. But in the spring, you can switch to a lighter moisturiser that won’t feel as heavy on your skin. Look for moisturisers that contain hyaluronic acid for a lightweight hydration-hit, or moisturisers containing prebiotics which stabilise sebum levels and protect against blemish-causing bacteria, if you have oily or acne-prone skin.

3. Use sunscreen daily

As the weather gets warmer and the sun gets stronger, it’s more important than ever to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Make sure to use a broad-spectrum facial sunscreen with an SPF of 50 every day, even if you’re just running errands or spending time indoors. Look for sunscreens that are lightweight, non-greasy, and consider tinted ones if you want a bit of a glow without wearing makeup.

4. Add antioxidants to your routine

Antioxidants are important for protecting your skin from environmental damage, pollution and free radicals. Look for products that contain antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, berries and green tea extract, and incorporate them into your skincare routine. These products can help brighten your skin, reduce inflammation, and even out your skin tone.

5. Don’t forget about your lips and eyes

Your lips and eyes are often overlooked in your skincare routine, but they’re just as important as the rest of your face. Invest in a good lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from the sun and use an eye cream to hydrate and brighten the delicate skin around your eyes.

6. Use a face mask once a week

Face masks are a great way to give your skin a little extra TLC, and they can help address specific skin concerns like dryness, acne, or dullness. Use a face mask once a week to help hydrate, brighten, or purify your skin, depending on your needs. Look for masks that are formulated for your skin type and concerns and follow the instructions carefully for best results.

By following these tips, you can update your skincare routine for spring and keep your skin looking and feeling its best. As always, I’m here to help if you’d like any tailormade advice so just get in touch.

For more information visit www.caroline-louise.co.uk email caroline@caroline-louise.co.uk or call 07814 442041

We

Company car benefits and exemptions from April 2023

Most employers and employees are aware of the additional costs of providing company cars and the tax implications they create. However, for many employees the attraction of having a company car means that despite any tax disadvantages, this remains a popular option.

Where employees are provided with fuel for their own private use by their employers, the car fuel benefit charge is applicable. The fuel benefit charge is determined by reference to the CO2 rating of the car, applied to a fixed amount. The car fuel benefit charge will increase in 202324 to £27,800 (from £25,300). The fuel benefit is not applicable when the employee pays for all their private fuel use.

Oswestry

Ludlow

Shrewsbury

Knighton

Wrexham

The car fuel benefit charge will increase in 2023-24 to £27,800 (from £25,300). The fuel benefit is not applicable when the employee pays for all their private fuel use.

The standard benefit charge for private use of a company van will increase to £3,960 (from £3,600). A company van is defined as ‘a van made available to an employee by reason of their employment’. There is an additional van fuel benefit charge for a van with significant private use. The limit will increase in 2023-24 to £757 (from £688). If private use of the van is insignificant, then no benefit will apply.

Benefits that are exempt from tax include:

Cars available for business journeys only

It has generally been established that to qualify for VAT recovery the car must not be available for any private use.

The car should only be available to staff during working hours for employment related duties or to travel to a temporary workplace.

Cars adapted for an employee with a disability

These cars are exempt if the only private use is for journeys between home and work and for travel to workrelated training.

‘Pool’ cars

Employers are not required to pay or report on ‘pool’ cars. These are cars that are shared by employees for business purposes only, and normally kept on the business premises.

Privately owned cars

Employers do not have to pay anything on cars that directors or employees own privately.

Our People, Your Team

Meet the tea M at Lanyon

Here to Help

Bowd L er: Preet Poonia

Preet Poonia has recently joined Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors in Shropshire as the firm’s Debt Recovery Manager. She’s a great person to know if you or your business are trying to recover any outstanding debts owed by customers!

Here, Preet explains a bit more about how she helps her clients, and how she unwinds after a hard day chasing those debts.

social media has a massive impact on our everyday lives; I cannot emphasise enough the large number of opportunities creating a LinkedIn account and connecting with professionals can bring.

The final piece of advice I would like to give is do not give up, the legal industry is a very competitive and challenging area; everybody progresses at their own pace, with some perseverance you will get there!

What has been your proudest moment?

Legal services including:

What’s the best thing about working in Shropshire?

• Agriculture

• Business Law

• Family Law

How would you describe your job?

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My favourite thing about working in Shropshire is that it is surrounded by natural beauty, it is a beautiful rural county. I commute from Wolverhampton to work in Telford, I really enjoy the scenic views whilst driving.

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The accomplishment I am most proud of is graduating with a high 2:1 degree in Law with Management. This achievement is not only a grade but also a reflection of the immense hard work and discipline I demonstrated throughout my studies; including my ability to work independently and collaboratively when required. The journey was challenging, but I have gained exceptional experience which has prepared me for an exciting career, one that will continue to let me learn and grow.

• Clinical Negligence

• Court of Protection

• Disputes

Our People, Your Team Here to Help

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•

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My job consists of developing and leading the debt recovery team to manage the firm’s debt collection service and acting for clients in debt recovery matters, dealing with bulk volume debt recovery as well as bespoke complex collection matters for companies and individuals. I can certainly say my job as a Debt Recovery Manager is very rewarding, there is no better feeling than helping our clients recover their debts, which may have been outstanding for a couple of years before instructing us.

What advice would you give to someone starting out in law?

We continue to offer meetings via telephone and video and where necessary we are able to offer face to face appointments, please use our letterbox when dropping off documents.

How do you relax away from work?

I relax away from work by keeping myself active and on my feet - my routine after work consists of going on a long walk or weightlifting at the gym. Regular exercise is an amazing way to help me relax and improve my mood and most of all help me sleep better. I also enjoy socialising with my friends and family and going out for meals at different restaurants.

Where is your favourite place to visit in Shropshire?

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Firstly, I would advise anyone interested in a career in law to gain as much practical experience as possible. For example, working at a university legal advice clinic or volunteering at a local high street firm; any experience paid or unpaid will show dedication and commitment in the legal career as well as developing your skills within the legal field.

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Secondly, I would encourage those seeking a career in law to network as much as possible, this can include attending law fairs at universities to get familiar with the legal market. In today’s society

•

Undoubtedly, my favourite place to visit in Shropshire is Ironbridge, it is definitely a great day out with family and friends as there is plenty to see and do. There are so many places to have a drink and a bite to eat, however the main attraction has to be the bridge itself!

We continue to offer meetings via telephone and video and where necessary we are able to offer face to face appointments, please use our letterbox when dropping off documents.

Buying, selling or renting? Think Monks.

Spring is in the air and there is no better time to consider buying, selling or renting a new home. As a leading estate agent in Shrewsbury, Wem, Oswestry and Shropshire, our mission is to enable our customers to succeed in finding the perfect home.

With more than 130 years of combined experience in estate agency, we are able to support our clients with an unparalleled service, providing superior local knowledge and expertise with a human touch.

Get more, with Monks.

• Selling and Renting for you 7 days a week –even on a Sunday!

• Available 8am – 8pm Monday to Friday.

• Prominent offices in Oswestry, Shrewsbury and Wem.

• Impressive 360° video walk through showcasing your home.

• Comprehensive photographic imagery.

• Professional and qualified team with over 130 years of collective experience.

• And most importantly competitive no sale, no charge commission.

Simply reserve one of our selected homes before in 2023 and choose one of the following:

Mortgage Holiday Up to £10,000

Don’t sacrifice on your dream vacation or your dream home, with our mortgage holiday we’ll be supporting you with up to £10,000 towards your mortgage costs. So make the move today with Bovis Homes.

Part Exchange and get £2,500 holiday vouchers

Let us buy your home and we’ll give you 100% of the market value of your current home as part exchange for a brand new Bovis Home.

Tailor Your Home Package

Work with our award-winning interior designers and choose additional home extras such as curtains, light

fittings, cushions to design your dream home.

Speak to one of our Sales Consultants for more information and don’t miss out on these limited time offers.

Choose from homes in Stafford, Edwalton, Telford, Haslington, Shrewsbury, and Essington. Make the move with Bovis Homewws.

Owning your dream home could become a reality when you pick one of our ‘3 for 2023’ offers at selected Midland developments!

Most of us need to do less. Many people seem to have too much going on. We work more in order to play more and often give in to peer pressure urging us to join in with a greater number of things. This lifestyle suits a wide range of people, but very rarely is it perfect for gardening folk. This glorious season of plenty is the very best time to make space for gardening. It cannot be rushed! Gardening is a healing, nurturing activity where mental health is soothed and the soul is fed with contentment.

Joyful tasks for spring

• Prioritise the lawn, if you have one, because it will provide a visual feature during the months to come. Cut and reshape the edges, it’s amazing what a difference this makes. Mow carefully and don’t be tempted to take it too low, leaving longer patches for wildlife, where possible.

• Early-spring flowering shrubs often benefit from being pruned back to healthy buds, but take time to check the most effective method for each species. In the case of forsythia, for example, best results are achieved by taking out some of the older stems, right down to the ground. This thins the shrub whilst still allowing it to adopt its natural form. What you don’t want is a ‘mechanical massacre’ whereby everything is rounded into a blob. Take a walk around your local modern housing estate to see it! Abelia, choisya, helichrysum and chaenomeles can also be pruned now.

• Climbers such as clematis need you to be wise. Some of them can have a light clip at this time

of year, but not those that are about to flower! The easy-to-remember advice “if it flowers before June, don’t prune” will tell you what type of pruning group your clematis falls into.

• Celebrate the season by planting out your annuals towards the end of the month, when all danger of frost has passed. Hanging baskets and bedding will provide vibrant colour and interest right through until October.

• If you are growing strawberries, lay straw between the plants and the soil. It will lessen the chance of mould spoiling the crop and will keep those luscious red fruits clean, too.

• Did you know that you can achieve greater yields from your vegetable beds if you plant in triangles rather than rows or squares? Stagger your plants, but don’t plant too closely. The crop is far better when there’s a bit more space in between.

• It’s time to make supports for runner beans. Allow about 2.5m of height and plant just one bean per support. These can go in the ground at the end of the month.

• Chit and plant potatoes, if you haven’t done so already. They like soft, crumbly soil. Always avoid planting them in boggy sites.

• Get weeds under control this month and it will make the rest of the growing season much easier. Hoe when the weather is dry, as this stops weeds in their tracks.

www.passthekeys.co.uk/midlands/shropshire/

SPRING IS HERE , FLOWERS ARE BLOOMING EVERYWHERE AND EASTER IS ON THE WAY!

With so many eye-catching colour trends this year, it is important when selecting, to understand the impact certain colours will bring to your bedroom. Some colours are calming and help with relaxation whilst others can bring warmth and passion. Get it right and you will love it. Get it wrong and you will regret it!

At Newport Beds & Carpet Loom we know all about this, and are happy to offer advice. You’ll love our superb choice of beds, flooring and mirrors in our extensive showrooms along with a vast array of fabric options too. Happy Easter to all our customers, old & new.

Raj Blend Modak

Golden Fossil Rippon

Light Grey Buff Old Black

Interiors

by Stephanie Dhillon

Pared back

Parisian

Keep it chic with Parisian styling but you don’t need to be ornate by any means. A glimmer is enough and keeping to the same colour palette maintains that sophistication we so strive for.

clockwise from above: French Style Louis Armchair Solid Oak £525 from La Residence Interiors  www.laresidenceinteriors.co.uk; Lexington Pink Satin Stitch Egyptian Cotton Sateen Luxury Bed Linen £35 from The Fine Cotton Company www.thefinecottoncompany.com; Distressed French Bedside Lamp £58 from French Bedroom www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk; Broncho Sham - Pink £16.99 from Wayfair www.wayfair.co.uk; Masala Chai Full Length Mirror £795 from French Bedroom www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

clockwise from above: Toile Story Chest of Drawers £895 from French Bedroom  www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

Pair of Audrey Wall Lights £99 from French Bedroom www. frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

Hays Rug - Grey £189 from Shimu  www.shimu.com

Bastile Bedside Table in Weathered Oak £375 from Loaf www.loaf.com

House of Valois Upholstered French Bed £2295 from French Bedroom  www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

Salmon Niçoise salad with herb, caper and walnut dressing

This is a delicious protein-packed salad full of beneficial omega-3 anti-inflammatory fats, and using walnut oil in the dressing is an easy way to further boost your intake of these healthy fats. This creamy dressing is equally delicious drizzled over any cooked fish or seafood.

Serves 2

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

2 boneless salmon or trout fillets, about 120g each, skin on Dressing

2 tbsp walnut oil

1 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp capers

Juice of ½ lemon

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tsp Dijon mustard

2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs

e.g. parsley, basil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Salad

6 new potatoes, halved

60g French beans, halved

Bag of mixed lettuce leaves

½ cucumber, cut into ribbons

1 tbsp capers

10 cherry tomatoes, halved

30g black or green olives, pitted

1 hard-boiled egg, cut into quarters

Method

• Bring a large steamer to the boil, tip the potatoes into the water then lay the fish fillets, skin-side down, in the steamer basket. Cover and cook for 6-8 mins, until the fish is cooked through, then remove and set aside.

• Blanch the beans for 1-2 minutes then drain.

• Place the mixed leaves in a large bowl and toss in the potatoes, cucumber, capers and beans. Scatter over the olives and tomatoes.

• Flake the fish into large chunks, discarding the skin, and add to the salad with the egg.

• Whisk all the ingredients for the dressing together and season to taste. Drizzle over the salad just before serving.

Nutrition per serving: 567kcal, fat 36.8g (of which saturates 5.6g), carbohydrates 21.9g (of which sugars 4.7g), protein 34.2g

Relax with a cup of coffee and enjoy the beautiful woodland views, or unwind with friends in our stunning raised tetradecagon building. A warm welcome is always guaranteed and the atmosphere is transformational!

Boultons’s - Award winning Butchers

A well deserved Congratulations to the team at Boulton’s Artisan Butchery in Madeley who have won a series of prestigious Golden Cleaver awards.

The business has received stars for the following products after being selected from over 400 UK entries:

Honey & Mustard Pork

Tenderloin -

2 stars jj

Smoked Chilli & Chipotle

Sausage -

3 Stars jjj

Tex Mex Chicken Cushion -

3 Stars jjj

The awards recognise and celebrate innovation and quality in retail butcher shops and the team will receive certificates at The Harrogate Butchers show this March

Boulton’s has also been nominated for Butcher’s Shop of the Year 2023 and for England's Business Awards which recognise the best in businesses nationally.

Boulton’s Artisan Butchers is a fantastic addition to Madeley and each week they bring new dishes and flavours with their made in store burgers, sausages and many ready meals. They also stock a full range of steaks including the Tomahawk and

T-bone and regularly have weekly special offers.

They will soon be getting ready their fabulous range of BBQ meats and treats ready for you to enjoy outdoors!

Well done team Boulton’s you are certainly leading the way!

No-bake Apple Cake

This no-bake ‘cake’-like dessert is naturally sweet with the addition of apple and dried fruit. Easy to make, you can also press the mixture into individual ramekins or rings for serving. Maca and lucuma powder are readily available from large supermarkets or health shops.

Makes 12 portions | Preparation time: 20 minutes plus 2-3 hours chilling time

Storage: Will keep in the fridge for 2-3 days

Ingredients

2 carrots, peeled and finely grated (about 200g)

2 apples, peeled, cored and finely grated

115g pecans, finely ground (use a food processor)

85g desiccated coconut

2 tbsp lucuma or maca powder

2 tbsp cacao powder

½ tsp ground cinnamon

Pinch of salt

150g raisins

60g dried apple, soaked for 15 minutes

60g pitted dates, soaked for 15 minutes

1 whole orange, peeled

Method

1. Grease and line a 20cm (8 inch) springform cake tin. Alternatively, you can place the mixture into individual ramekins or rings.

2. Place the apple and carrots in a large bowl with the pecan nuts, coconut, lucuma or maca, cacao, cinnamon, salt and raisins.

3. Drain the dried apple and dates and place in a blender or food processor with the orange. Process to form a smooth paste –this will help bind the mixture together. Add the paste to the nut mixture and combine thoroughly.

4. Place the mixture (you may need to do this in batches) in a food processor and pulse to form a wet dough. Do not over-mix – you still want some texture.

5. Press the mixture into the cake tin or ramekins or rings and chill for 2-3 hours to firm up before serving.

6. Cut into slices and top with yoghurt if wished.

Nutrition per serving: 203kcal, fat 11g (of which saturates 4.3g), carbohydrates 21g (of which sugars 19g), protein

2.2g, fibre 3.6g

SWAN HOTEL

HOUSE | DINING | ROOMS

2 COURSES £15 3 COURSES £18

The Swan Hotel stands proud on Eccleshall Road just 4 minutes from Newport town centre. The Swan is a beautiful Georgian building with the hotel accommodation being fully refurbished in 2021. Our selection of ensuite rooms are perfect for weddings, events, a treat whilst travelling for business or a weekend away with the family.

We Pride ourselves on using as much locally sourced meat and produce as possible by using local suppliers. Our meat comes from Buttercross farm in Market Drayton, pies from Shropshire and of course Joules ales and lager from Market Drayton.

+ Quiz night on a Monday

+ Steak night on a Thursday

+ Takeaway beer + Live Music

+ Sunday Roasts

+ Great Vegan menu

+ Accommodation available

Eccleshall Road Newport Shropshire TF10 8BY

Tel: 01952 820446

Email: swanatforton@outlook.com

Facebook @swanatforton

#supportlocal #swanhotelforton

TAP

ABOVE: Tu White, Brown & Green Camo Shirt (1-7 Yrs) £9, tuclothing.sainsburys.co.uk

BELOW: Barbour Dale Shirt £32.95, www.barbour.com; National Forest Kids Hoodie £26, www.fatface.com

Spring Parties

FROM TOP: Kim Foil Print Scuba Skirt & Top Set £55, www.monsoon.co.uk

Kids White Shoes with Gems £28, www.monsoon.co.uk

Tan One Touch Boat Shoe (4-12 Infant) £12, tuclothing.sainsburys.co.uk

Smart shorts bowtie and shirt set green £50.00, www.monsoon.co.uk

BELOW: Bunny Embroidered Top, www.monsoon.co.uk

Ellesmere College student on target for international shooting success

A Shropshire teenager is on target for success achieving medal after medal on the international stage.

Francine Gilmore, a student at Ellesmere College, won four gold medals at InterShoot, an annual air gun competition in Holland, last week.

It follows her first individual international medal in the 10 metre air pistol competition in Luxembourg in December and a gold in the British Pistol Club Open Championships last month.

In the most recent competition the 16-year-old from Cressage, travelled to the town of Ockenburgh near the Hague. In three individual junior competitions she qualified in first place then went on to take the gold medal in the finals - as well as getting a gold in a team competition.

In December at the Federation Luxembourgeoise De Tir Aux Armes Sportives annual air gun competition, Francine came away with both a goldafter a 17 to 15 win over a Swedish competitor - and a bronze medal.

In January she won bronze in the mixed pairs and gold in individual competition at the British event.

Her dad Lance Gilmore said: “I am very proud of her. She works very hard and is doing very well in all the competitions she enters. She would love to represent Team GB again and is working hard to be picked.”

Francine, who is hoping to be picked for Team GB to take part in the Junior World Cup in May, as she did last year, is also aiming to be picked for the Commonwealth Games in Australia in 2026 and would love to represent GB in the Olympics one day.

The Year 12 student is a member of the Shooting Academy and boards at Ellesmere College during weekdays in order to fit in her training schedule of two to three days a week in the Academy facilities.

Academy Coach Tom Rylands is not surprised at Francine’s success.

He said: “What an exceptional talent! Francine richly deserves her success – her work ethic is incredible both academically and in her sport.

“She is ranked among the top GB Senior Pistol shooters, let alone Juniors and leads by example –after returning from Holland, a day later she was on the College team leading them to victory in the National Schools Championships run by British Shooting.

“And to cap it all she went on to win the individual final for her sixth gold medal in a week!” Francine is coached by Margaret Thomas, one of the few women to compete at the Olympics, and competes every three weekends out of four.

She also shoots rifle for the school team and Lance added: “She’s very committed to her training,whether it is at school, travelling to Aldersley near Wolverhampton or online too, she works very hard.

“Of course, her school work is equally as important and she has got a lot of work to do, the school are very good about it and understand her schedule, they do everything they can to accommodate.

“Her tutors supply her with all the work she misses and as long as it gets done they are happy.”

For more information, please visit Ellesmere College Shooting Academy.

Abi-Lou Foster and Richard Jebb

Performing Arts Student Wins Local Heat of Performing Shakespeare Competition

Moreton Hall pupil Jessica Middleton has won the second heat of the English Speaking Union (ESU) Performing Shakespeare Competition and advances to the regional finals this summer.

The second heat of the competition held in The Holroyd Community Theatre, Weston Rhyn, saw talented performing arts students from schools across the region taking to the stage.

Having excelled in the first round of the competition, the pressure was on for Year 9 pupil Jessica and her fellow competitors to deliver memorable performances. And they did not disappoint. Each participant brought their own unique interpretation to the Bard’s work, making for a truly captivating evening of oracy.

Kate Howells, Head of Drama at Moreton Hall said, “After much deliberation, the judge announced

the winners of the heat, and it was with great pleasure that we learned of Jessica’s success. Not only did she secure a place in the regional finals in May, but she also earned the title of overall winner of the heat, scoring an impressive 19 out of 20.”

Should Jessica continue her winning streak in the next round, she will have the incredible opportunity to perform at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in June. Kate Howells added: “We have no doubt that Jessica will excel in this next challenge.”

Film director and ESU judge, Anne-Marie Scragg, was particularly impressed with Jessica’s performance. She commended her for her deep understanding of her character’s objectives and motivation, noting that her performance was “beautifully internalised”.

Michael Jenkins, Creative Director of The Holroyd Community

Theatre and Drama teacher added, “We wish Jessica the very best of luck in the upcoming regional finals and are excited to see where this competition takes her.”

Host a Year 12 student FROM SWITZERLAND

Saturday 27 May Sunday 28 May

Stalls and games

Derwen-made ice cream

Local artisan crafts and food

Childrens inflatable fun

BBQ and Bar

Duck race

Live music

Tombola

Raffle

Local artisan crafts and food

Childrens inflatable fun

Dog show

Harry and the “cheese” headache

The cheese was lovely – Mum said he might not like it. She said many people didn’t and when he was told the blue bits in it were mouldy, he wasn’t sure at first either. It was lovely and he ate loads - apparently it was called Stilton. Later that day he felt odd – he had a sort of flashing light in his eyes and then, when he looked at his sister, she was sort of only half there. There were times when he wished she was wholly not there, but this wasn’t one of them and it was becoming a bit scary.

“Mum,” said Harry, “my eyes are going a bit funny”. He told her about his “half-sister” and the flashes. “It sounds like you’re having a migraine,” she replied. “It’s a sort of headache that will pass off I think but it’s better if you take some ibuprofen and perhaps lie in your bedroom with the curtains drawn”. This all seemed a bit over-the-top to Harry, particularly as it was all seeming to get better. But then the headache started. It throbbed all over the lefthand side of his head and he felt sick – lying down felt about right, now. He fell asleep and woke up a few hours later. He opened his eyes – his whole Mum was there which was a good start and no headache: even better. He just felt a bit tired and had a quiet evening on his games console.

“So why did that happen?” Harry asked the next morning. “Well,” started Mum, “all that cheese you ate might have something to do with it and,” she continued “there is a bit of migraine in the family too”. “So, it could happen again,” he said with some anxiety in his voice.

“Well, yes but it wasn’t too bad was it and they are rarely very frequent so it might not happen again for ages, or even ever again, but we

Dr Paul Middleton

might just watch the amount of Stilton you eat next time”.

Harry looked up migraine on the internet. He half expected the Greeks and Romans might be to blame for the name, they usually were, but this time it apparently came via the French. It meant half head pain which sort of made sense. Up to one in every five people could have it – it was rarer in boys which seemed a bit unfair. There was usually a genetic element and he wondered if he should have chosen his parents a bit more carefully! Worry, certain foods (his Stilton included) and hormones (apparently more important in his sister) and loads of other things like dehydration, sleeping badly and even excitement could make it happen! And no-one seemed to know what it really was. The good news was that it was rarely too bad although some poor people did get loads of attacks and it could even stop them being able to talk or even move. “That would be really scary,” thought Harry.

“It’s nice to see all of you,” he said to his sister. She gave him a look of contempt. Harry explained. “I’ve had two of those as well,” she continued, “there’s loads of different treatments you can have if it gets bad but mine sound pretty much like yours and the doctor says they’re not generally dangerous”. “You had to see a doctor?” asked Harry. Strangely she went all red. “Well,” she hesitated, “I needed to see her about something, and the migraine meant I couldn’t take a pill like my friends”. Harry was still confused but somehow it felt best to leave it there.

Later looking at his phone he found the Migraine Trust and lots more information. Someone even suggested people with migraine were cleverer. He would choose to believe it!

Harry looked up migraine on the internet. He half expected the Greeks and Romans might be to blame for the name, they usually were, but this time it apparently came via the French.

Top five cruise destinations

Is there anything more idyllic than waking on a cruise ship and drawing your blinds to reveal an endless expanse of ocean? Add in cocktails by the pool, daily entertainment and shopping galore, and you have all the ingredients for the perfect holiday. That’s not even touching on the destinations you stop off at along the way!

From the Greek Islands to Scandinavia’s Norwegian fjords, cruises can take you all over the globe. To give you some inspiration, here are five of the world’s most popular cruise destinations for 2022.

The River Nile

As far as river cruises are concerned, there aren’t many that compare to a voyage along the Egyptian stretch of the River Nile.

Measuring about 4,160 miles in length, there’s no better way to put the Nile’s sheer scale into perspective than to sail along a portion on a scenic Egyptian river cruise. Whether you’re into your history or simply want to soak up the culture, it’s impossible not to be blown away by the 7,000-year-old history you’ll witness at every turn.

The Greek Islands

With more than 6,000 Greek islands peppering the Aegean and Ionian seas, this is a corner of the world made for exploring by ship.

Start in Athens and spend your first couple of days exploring the capital before embarking on your journey. Top cruise destinations include Mykonos with its waterside cocktail bars and white-sand beaches, Rhodes with its Old Town and uninterrupted swathes of sand, and Santorini, where the sunsets are worldrenowned.

Alaska

Coined ‘The Last Frontier’, Alaska is the USA’s most sparsely populated state – and its wildest.

Sail past gigantic glaciers, snap photographs of sea lions, take a shore excursion to see brown bears and witness breaching whales; the cruise itineraries around Alaska’s untamed landscape are hard to beat. You can also expect visits to Alaska’s state capital of Juneau, only reachable by air or by water, Glacier Bay National Park, and Skagway, a compact city saturated with history from the Gold Rush era.

The Caribbean

The Caribbean’s wealth of white-sand beaches washed by turquoise seas make it an incredibly popular cruise destination for sun-seekers.

Thanks to the islands’ close proximity, you could be snorkelling with turtles in Tobago one day and dancing to reggae beats in Jamaica the next. Although equally colourful, each island has its own distinct character, meaning there’s enough to please wildlife lovers, history enthusiasts, foodies and anyone who just wants to laze on the beach.

The Norwegian fjords

If you’re more interested in adventure than sun, sea and sand, Norway’s dramatic fjords are sure to deliver. These narrow inlets make up the majority of the country’s northern coast and boast some of Scandinavia’s most exceptional scenery.

Exploring from a cruise ship promises to bring you close to Norway’s tumbling waterfalls and skyscraper cliffs; keep an eye out for rare seabirds and sperm whales if you’re lucky! Most cruises will also stop at remote fishing villages, where you can sample some of the freshest, most delicious seafood.

Visiting Angels Celebrate First Year

A couple who launched a new in-home care company in north Shropshire with a mission to raise the standards of the care industry both for care staff and those who receive care in their own homes, have recently celebrated their first year in business.

Mark Goodall and Nicky Sealey set up the care company Visiting Angels North Shropshire after Nicky worked in the care sector business for over 15 years. The couple aim to provide a standard of care that reflects their own strong family values.

Visiting Angels North Shropshire Co-Director and registered Care Manager, Nicky Sealey, explained that Visiting Angels is a leading national care provider which had established a reputation as a

trailblazer in reforming the modern social care industry.

“Working with Visiting Angels to set up our own business under its brand has given us the chance to align our own values and experiences with a leading care provider’s mission.

“We are delighted to be celebrating our first year in Oswestry and very proud of how the team has grown. 11 months ago, there was two of us and now there are nearly 30. We are looking forward to supporting clients in the community and growing our team further.”

Co-Director, Mark Goodall added, “It’s a wonderful place to be – we have encountered all walks and generations of life, we are really pleased to be part of the local community.”

• Diet monitoring, planning and preparing meals.

• Light housekeeping.

• Assistance with shopping, errands and appointments.

• Assistance with personal care, bathing and dressing.

• Reminders to take medicines, drink and eat regularly.

• Companionship, taking time to listen and chat.

• Help staying active in the community and attending social functions.

Our caregivers are excellent people with the right mix of skills, experience, and a true caring nature, so that they can provide consistently superior home care. Our Angels are available to support your needs in North Shropshire so get in touch today. store chemicals safely and meets current Health and Safety regulations.

It’s a wonderful place to be – we have encountered all walks and generations of life, we are really pleased to be part of the local community.

Be who you’ve always been... a champion

At Oxbow Manor care home being a champion doesn’t stop when you make the journey into care. Bring your life with you to a place you can call home. Award winning, person-centred care for over 40 years.

If you’re considering care for yourself or a loved one call 01743 598 265.

Trusted to care.

Oxbow Manor care home

Shrewsbury

careuk.com/oxbow-manor

do diets work?

Dieting is something most of us will have experienced. Whether you’re looking to lose weight or just be a little healthier, new ways to change your eating habits continue to emerge – from diets that eliminate all carbs to programmes that change your entire attitude towards food.

However, diets are rarely as simple as they first seem. Not only are they notoriously hard to stick to (because let’s face it, cutting out carbs for the rest of your life just isn’t sustainable), it can be equally hard to keep the weight off. Plus, some diets aren’t even that good for you in the first place.

So how can you tell the good diets from the bad ones, and how effective are the good ones anyway?

Good diets versus bad diets

When we’re on a mission to shed pounds for an upcoming wedding or long-awaited holiday, we often become so focused on the number on the scales, we forget to give our bodies the nutrition they need.

Juice diets are a good example. These ultra-low calorie fads lure people in with buzz words such as ‘detoxifying’ and ‘cleansing’. In fact, liquid diets have been known to cause fatigue, headaches and poor concentration, which isn’t surprising given that they don’t provide your body with the sustenance it needs. What’s more, any weight you lose probably won’t last, as super-restrictive diets such as these are virtually impossible to stick to.

Diets aren’t all bad, however. Long-term programmes such as Weight Watchers promote a sustainable approach to dieting without restricting you to a single food group. Newer diet programmes are also entering the sphere, such as app-based Noom, which focuses on education, healthy habits and behavioural changes to help dieters lose weight – and keep it off.

The key to an effective diet

While not every diet will work for everyone, the most important thing is balance. Any diet that’s extreme and restrictive simply won’t last, and has the potential to lead to an endless cycle of ‘yo-yo dieting’.

Liquid diets have been known to cause fatigue, headaches and poor concentration, which isn’t surprising given that they don’t provide your body with the sustenance it needs. What’s more, any weight you lose probably won’t last.

It’s also important to consider your activity levels when choosing a diet. We often assume that every woman can consume 2,000 calories a day, and every man 2,500, without gaining weight – but this isn’t necessarily true. Getting a wearable fitness device is an accurate way of working out how much energy you burn, and thus how many calories you can eat per day to reach your end goal.

But how do you keep the weight off? Planning your meals can be a huge help. Stocking your kitchen with healthy, nutritious foods and creating structured meal plans will help keep any unwanted weight gain at bay. All in all, if a diet is to work longterm, it has to be a complete lifestyle change, not just a quick fix. So take it slowly, eat mindfully and be kind to yourself.

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LEAVING A LASTING LEGACY

Oswestry-based Hope House Children’s Hospices are a lifeline to families in Shropshire, Cheshire, Mid and North Wales whose child is diagnosed with a life-threatening condition.

Their specialist nursing care and support is provided free of charge whenever and wherever it is needed - but this work is only made possible by the charity’s incredible supporters and their generous donations, including Gifts in Wills.

Director of Fundraising Simi Epstein explained, “Gifts in Wills are crucial to Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith because they help us to plan for the future and provide vital care for seriously ill local children for many years to come. We are so grateful to everyone who leaves us a gift because we would be lost without them.

“Having a Will in place is important too because it gives you peace of mind knowing that your wishes are clear. If you would like to leave a gift to charity in your Will, you can leave a specific item or a cash gift, but you can also leave a share of your estate, such as 1% so that those closest to you still inherit 99%.”

Every gift left in a Will makes a huge difference. Together they fund almost half of all the care that Hope House Children’s Hospices provide to children and families, from respite stays, crisis care and symptom

management, to end of life care and bereavement counselling.

Ben and Georgie’s daughter Freya (pictured) has needed Hope House since she was a baby. They say that for them, and many other families, the hospice is quite simply a lifeline.

The couple met Sian, Hope House’s neonatal link nurse, after Freya was diagnosed with Hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy and Cerebral Palsy. Sian works closely with local neonatal and midwifery units supporting families whose babies are diagnosed with life-threatening conditions before or after birth.

Georgie said, “Sian was one of the first people we met who really understood our situation and took the time to learn about us. She told us about everything that Hope House could help with such as respite care and symptom management for Freya, sibling support for Freya’s older sister Ella, and counselling too.

“On our first visit we had a lovely five days being able to relax and enjoy being together as a family. That was the first time we really bonded with Freya and felt like parents instead of carers. It was

also the first time we saw her smile.

“The nursing at Hope House is so different to a hospital because every child has their own nurse and they really get to know your child. Very quickly they become like our extended family.

“Now Hope House is our first port of call when we are worried about something. It is so reassuring to have that support at the end of the phone whenever we need advice.

“Freya isn’t expected to live a full life and we just don’t know how long we have got with her. It does make us value every day more and want to get the best out of every moment. But there is no way we could do that without the help of the Hope House team, they really are amazing.”

You can read more about Freya and the other brave children who have been helped by Hope House at hopehouse.org.uk/family-stories.

Freya

Cuddles at Hope House

Every gift left in a Will makes a huge difference. Together they fund almost half of all the care that Hope House Children’s Hospices provide to children and families

Due

Say

do i need life insurance?

Life insurance may feel both baffling and daunting, but it’s a key step towards financial security for many people. These are the most important things to know when deciding whether it’s right for you and which policy to choose.

The most important question is what you want the life insurance to achieve. With most forms of insurance, it’s simply a case of covering costs or replacing something that’s lost, stolen or damaged. With life insurance, you’re commonly looking to replace your income.

That means it matters whether you are the sole ‘breadwinner’ in your household, you share financial responsibilities, or you have no dependents (in which case life insurance usually makes little sense). It also matters whether you simply want to maintain an income for your family after you die or if you are concerned with specific expenses, such as a mortgage or university costs for your children.

Those factors will help you make the biggest decision: whether to get a whole-of-life policy or a term policy. The former means that, as long as you keep up the payments, the policy pays out when you die.

These policies tend to work out more expensive, both through higher payments and because you’ll be paying in for longer. It’s usually taken out by people who want to be sure to cover funeral costs, or want their heirs to be able to pay an inheritance tax bill without having to sell the family home.

With term policies you pay premiums and are eligible for payouts during a fixed period. Depending on your

financial goals, this could be a set number of years, the remaining term of your mortgage or until your planned retirement date. These policies are usually cheaper that whole-of-life policies. Once the term ends, you stop making payments and the policy will never pay out.

If you go for a term policy, you need to decide how the payout level changes over time. The most basic option is a ‘level’ policy that simply pays a fixed lump sum on your death. A variation of this means the payout amount goes up each year during the term, in line with inflation.

In contrast, a decreasing policy means the payout amount falls each year during the term. That makes premiums lower and is most suitable when you want the life insurance to clear your mortgage if you die. The falling payout reflects the fact your outstanding mortgage debt will also fall over time.

Whether you get whole-of-life or term insurance, you need to decide whether to get a single or joint policy, for example with your spouse or partner. A single policy is straightforward: the payout goes into your estate and is distributed in line with your will.

With a joint policy, the default set-up is that when (or if) one of the two policyholders dies, the payout goes to the other policyholder. The policy then ends with no further premiums or payouts.

Health and Wellbeing

Are you suffering with osteoarthritis?

By Scott Gormley

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in the UK and affects around a third of people aged 45 and over. Symptoms may include swelling; increased pain and stiffness after prolonged rest that can last more than 30 minutes; joints appearing larger or more “knobbly” than usual; grinding or crackling sounds or sensations in your joints; joint locking; reduced joint range of movement; weakness, instability and muscle wasting. Most joints can be affected by osteoarthritis, but it is more common in knees, hips and hands.

The severity of osteoarthritis symptoms can differ for each person and will be different depending on the joint affected. The symptoms can be mild and affect you intermittently or they can be more extreme and affect your daily activities. If your symptoms are persistent, it is advised you see a professional to advise you on how to best manage your symptoms to help prevent them from worsening.

Your joints are exposed to a minor amount of damage day to day which your body repairs, but if you have osteoarthritis, the protective cartilage between your bones degenerates which causes pain, swelling and problems moving the joint. Bony growths can additionally develop, and the area can become red and swollen.

A number of factors can increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis, including: a history of injury to a joint; not giving enough time to heal after an injury or operation and returning to exercise or sport too soon; it can be secondary to rheumatoid arthritis or gout; age, your risk of developing the condition increases as you get older; family history; being obese, this increases the amount of strain on your joints, especially in those that carry most of your weight, such as your knees and hips; and finally gender, osteoarthritis affects more women than men.

Osteoarthritis cannot heal or be cured but there are several ways of managing your symptoms to help prevent them from worsening. Such as: regular low impact exercise (swimming and cycling); if you’re overweight, losing weight to reduce the extra strain on your joints; wearing supportive and correct footwear for your foot type; prescribed medication for the inflammation and pain; heat or ice therapy;

advice and treatment from a professional and finally maintain a good posture throughout the day. If conservative management doesn’t help, surgery may be done to repair, strengthen or replace the affected joint.

When osteoarthritis is causing your mobility to worsen or making it difficult to do everyday tasks, assistive devices may also be necessary. If you have hip or knee osteoarthritis which affects your ability to walk, using a walking aid on the opposite side to your affected leg is recommended to reduce the weight you’re putting through the joint. A splint (a piece of rigid material to support a joint or bone) is also advised if you need to rest the affected joint. If you suffer with osteoarthritis in your hands and struggle turning taps without pain, tap turners can be beneficial and make the task easier day to day.

How can our clinic help you?

• Professional advice - manage and help improve your symptoms day to day.

• Exercise advice/prescription - helps improve range of movement, strength, stability and balance.

• Acupuncture/massage - helps reduce swelling and muscle tightness, to improve or maintain your joint range of movement, stability and balance.

• Chiropractic adjustment - helps improve your joint range of movement.

• Pilates and yoga in group setting or 1 to 1 improves upon your strength, movement, stability and balance.

• Custom orthotics/insoles - helps correct foot posture and body alignment, to reduce compensatory loads on your joint which may be worsening your symptoms.

•  Injection therapy to manage swelling and pain.

• Pre/post operative rehabilitation and management if surgery is the chosen route.

If you’re suffering with osteoarthritis and need some guidance please get in touch: call 01952 825042 or email info@shropshirephysiotherapy.co.uk

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