www.oswestry.life
ISSUE 79 NOVEMBER 2023
THE MOST WIDELY DISTRIBUTED FREE PUBLICATION IN OSWESTRY
YEAR ANNIVERSARY 2017-2023
news Royal British Legion • Foodbank • Oswestry and Borders Surge in Membership
Edge • Water’s Ros Hornbuckle
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Contents
Welcome to Oswestry Life
Local news ........................................ 5 Fitness - The Coach House............... 17 Fashion - Cosy Coats ....................... 20
Paws for thought ............................. 22 The New Saints FC Foundation ........ 25 Oswestry and Borders Food Bank .... 27 Welcome to the November issue! If you are looking forward to some fireworks this year, don’t miss the display scheduled for Saturday 4 November at 7pm in Cae Glas Park. In case you didn’t know about them, we met the Oswestry Netball League committee on page 48 to talk grass roots sports and the TNS FC Foundation explain all about working in the community (page 25). Don’t forget to put in your nominations for our Local Hero Awards – visit www.oswestry.life to send them in. Have a great month.
On the Right Track - Paul Evans ...... 28
Victoria McKenna
In Focus - Graham Mitchell.............. 75
EDITOR
Oswestry Life
Royal British Legion, Oswestry ........ 30 Food and Drink - Recipe ................. 34 Food and Drink - The Tap ............... 36 Culture.............................................. 40 Health - Dr Paul Middleton .............. 44 Health and Wellbeing ...................... 46 Healthy Focus .................................. 47 Sport - Netball for All ....................... 48 Artist - Water’s Edge ......................... 54 Property Focus .................................. 59 Interiors - Fireside ............................. 69 Gardening - in November ............... 73
Puzzle page ..................................... 82
www.oswestry.life NOVEMBER COVER
Delivered to 7,000 homes in and around Oswestry every month 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 Regular contributors Graham Mitchell, Dr Paul Middleton, Rebecca Evans, Stephanie Dhillon, Louise Idoux, Claire Arnold, Nicola Manford, Matt Lee Accounts and Distribution info@oswestrylife.co.uk Advertising info@oswestrylife.co.uk
www.oswestry.life
ISSUE 79 NOVEMBER 2023
THE MOST WIDELY DISTRIBUTED FREE PUBLICATION IN OSWESTRY
YEAR
grahamsfmitchell
ANNIVERSARY 2017-2023
news British Legion • Foodbank • Royal Oswestry and Borders Surge in Membership
Remembrance in Oswestry
Water’s Edge • Ros Hornbuckle
Oswestry Life is published by DTS Media. The views expressed within this publication do not necessarily reflect those of DTS Media. The reproduction of any material in this magazine is forbidden without the written consent of the publisher. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, DTS Media can in no way accept liability for omissions or incorrect insertions or any consequences arising from use of this publication. PEFC/16-33-447
© DTS Media Ltd. 2023 Printed by Pensord Press - When you have finished with this publication please recycle
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PHOTOS ©GRAHAM MITCHELL
Local news
Oswestry In Bloom Awards On Monday 16 October, the annual Oswestry In Bloom presentations took place. With a new venue, time and format, the committee wished to highlight the wonderful work that goes on in our town. Over 100 people attended the event in the Memorial Hall in Oswestry. Hosted by ex-BBC presenter James Bond, the hard work of all our gardening residents and businesses were recognised. Commercial awards were presented by Oswestry In Bloom’s greatest supporter, Margaret Thrower (daughter of Percy, the most famous of all TV gardeners). Residential awards were presented by Gareth Manning, RHS Heart of England In Bloom judge. New categories were added this year with a popular addition of Young Gardener of the Year which was awarded to Jack Butler from The Marches School by Natalie Bainbridge. The very popular Sunflower Competition saw two
awards ‘Best Sunflower Diary’: Bellan House and ‘Tallest Sunflower’: Woodside School. Oswestry is a finalist in the ‘Best of Britain In Bloom’ this year. On the 23 October the winner will be announced at a ceremony in London. Everyone is keeping their green fingers crossed. If you’d like to be one of the first to know the result, then it will be announced on the BBC One Show between 7pm and 7.30pm that evening, so tune in! Oswestry In Bloom is an established tradition in the town, and this year saw it win Gold (for the 16th year running) and Best Large Town (for the 2nd year running) in the ‘Heart of England In Bloom’ competition. Committee member and director of Oswestry Borderland Tourism, Graham Mitchell said, “The town has some wonderful hardworking organisations supporting the local population and making
10 Years for Oswestry Business PSM Kitchens of Oswestry is celebrating their 10th year providing high quality, tailored kitchens from their studio in Oswestry. With over 20 years experience within the kitchen design and build industry, PSM Kitchens offers a friendly, personal service with a single point of contact from your initial enquiry right through to the completion of your new kitchen. Business owner Paul Mansell said, “I set up PSM kitchens in 2013 after spending many years working in the industry but I wanted to provide really good customer service both before, during and after the sale. I can hardly believe it has been 10 years since we started but we’ve gone from strength to strength
Best town centre floral display was awarded to Meraki Colour (pictured above), with the award for Best pub/hotel going to The Bailey Head (below)
Oswestry a welcoming visitor destination. This in turn supports the local economy and makes the town an even better place to live.” The more people who are involved, the better the results. Oswestry In Bloom is looking for more volunteers and participants, so have a look at their website to see how you can join. www. OswestryInBloom/wordpress.com
Paul Mansell of PSM Kitchens.
and have enjoyed working with a really wide range of projects to help our customers achieve the best kitchen possible with the least hassle possible.”
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Shropshire Blood Pressure Checks Project Launched Oswestry-based, community charity Qube is working with NHS Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin Integrated Care Board and Shropshire Council to facilitate the Shropshire Blood Pressure Checks Project. The project aims to recruit volunteers from across Shropshire to target high-risk populations to increase the detection of hypertension and improve awareness of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. A few weeks ago, Blood Pressure Champion Coordinator at Qube, Jo Longetti had the pleasure of training her first four champions and is currently recruiting and training even more volunteers throughout the county. Once trained, the Community Blood Pressure Champions will work with partners to run pop-up events in several locations, including Livestock Markets, Food Banks, and Veterans groups, allowing everyone to access free blood pressure checking. Councillor Cecilia Motley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet Member for adult social care, public health and communities said, “I’m really pleased to see that we are working with The Qube Oswestry Community Action to offer free blood pressure checks at locations across the county. The charity are currently seeking more volunteers to work with our outreach team to help raise awareness of the symptoms and risks of cardiovascular disease within local communities and to deliver free blood pressure checks for local residents. “If you have any spare time to be a volunteer, please do contact Qube and help us help our communities to stay healthy for longer.”
Oswestry Illuminated Tractor Run Local resident Mike Lade, along with the Whittington and Oswestry Young Farmers, are organising an Illuminated Tractor Run on the afternoon of Saturday 9 December in memory of a very popular young farmer, Will Roberts of Pennant Farm in Gobowen. Will, the much-loved son of Dave and Sue Roberts, was affectionately known by all as “Choc” because of his love of chocolate. Sadly, “Choc” died from a brain tumor on 12 December last year so this will be a fitting event to remember “Choc”. The money raised by the Young Farmers will go to the Lingen Davies cancer charity based in Mytton Oak Road in Shrewsbury. Mike also has reason to thank and support Lingen Davies. His wife is now two years clear from breast cancer and was supported by the charity during her treatment. Charles Dean, Whittington and Oswestry Young Farmers President said, “We hope this becomes an annual event and that it becomes known locally as “Choc’s” Tractor Run to keep his name alive in the farming community and, at the same time, raise money for this much needed cancer charity.” Lead organiser Mike Lade said, “We have listened to the comments and after discussions with the Young Farmers, we will now be starting from the Oswestry Livestock Market on Shrewsbury Road. This makes it more “local” to the town so residents and kids can walk along and see the tractors at the muster and meet our hard-working farmers. Some parking will be available. The illuminated tractors will leave to go through West Felton, Ryton XI Towns, Baschurch, Burlton, Cockshut, Ellesmere, Duddleston Heath, Ifton Heath, St Martins, Gobowen, Whittington, Oswestry and now we have included Morda. The tractors will then return to the Livestock Market via Mile End roundabout. Once again people will be able to walk round the tractors. We will have marshals and bucket collectors in the Dates for your diary villages and through the town to raise Shropshire Local Drop-In will be much need money for the local cancer at Oswestry Library: Thursdays charity, Lingen Davies.” 2nd, 16th & 30th November The online tractor registration form between 10am-2pm can be found on their Facebook page: Your Shropshire Local team are @oswestryilluminatedtractorrun. there to help you access Shropshire Places will be limited for the first run Council services, such as Blue so please register as soon as possible. badge applications, Concessionary
Pictured in front of “Choc’s” tractor (L-R): Mike Lade, Young Farmers President Charles Dean on the tractor together with “Choc’s” mum and dad Dave and Sue Roberts
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Support your local independent businesses
★ Shop local ★ Eat local ★ Spend local ★ Enjoy local ADVANCED HYPNOTHERAPIST Katie Millard
Smoking cessation. Weight management. Anxiety & Depression. Phobias. Stress 07912 435221 katie@thehappinessclub.co.uk
Amber’s Cleaning Services
Specialising in designing bespoke celebration cakes and cupcakes for your special occasion. Always unique, always yum! Contact us at pipposbakery@gmail.com or via Facebook. com/pipposbakery
Balanced Elements Acupuncture
Pure Serenity Hypnobirthing and Life Coach
Cat World
Feline superstore offering top quality gifts, homewares, cat toys, and accessories for all cat lovers and their furry friends. 3c Church Street, The alleyway next to Boots bengalcatworld.co.uk
Clean & Gleam
Give your oven a little TLC with Clean & Gleam! Professional oven cleaning services covering Oswestry & surrounding areas. 07866 472083 / 07791 655559 www.facebook.com/cleanandgleamovens
Dogz Dinnerz
Foods and supplies for all your pets at the best prices. Oswestry Indoor Market Hall, Oswestry Tel: 07368 104980 Email:dogzdinnerz@yahoo.com
Enchanted Gifts By Karen
A wide range of gifts, jewellery, crystals, holistic, spiritual, new age and fun items, based in Oswestry Indoor Market. Email enchantedgiftsbykaren@gmail.com www.enchantedgiftsbykaren.co.uk
Herd Milk
Taste the difference! Delicious, whole milk and yoghurt, fresh from our grassfed cows.Try a milkshake or grab a coffee and a cookie. Stockists of Belton Cheese (also made with our milk). Whittington Rd, SY11 4NB victoria@herdmilk.co.uk
J&I Carpets
Over 30 rolls of carpet in stock! Many roll ends half price! Vinyls, LVT, Blinds and Curtains. A family business est. 1982. Victoria Road, Oswestry www.jandicarpets.co.uk 01691 656843
Micky Finn Quality Fish
Highest Quality Fresh from Fleetwood EVERY morning! If you have not enjoyed your fish we will refund. Powis Market Hall Oswestry Wednesday and Saturday 7.30-12 Ian: 07966 201696 Erin 07742 248269
Nu U Beauty
NEW!…IPL permanent hair reduction. Now is the perfect time to get rid of that unwanted hair ready for summer 2024. FREE consultation & patch test (usually £25 with this advert) www.nuubeauty.com Tel : 07506 078265
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Pippo’s Bakery
Domestic and Commercial Professional Cleaning Services with competitive rates. One off deep cleans/End of Tenancy cleans. Daily/Weekly/ Fortnightly clean. Offices and building sites T: 07955 022129 E:amber123nicole@gmail.com Chinese medicine acupuncture and accompanying therapies. Acupuncture, Cupping, Hopi Ear Candles Facebook@Balanced Elements Acupuncture Wharf Road, Ellesmere. Tel: 07495 193330
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Park Gate Florist
A busy florist in the centre of Oswestry. Available for weddings, funerals. Bouquets and arrangements for any occasion 01691 679898 Email: parkgate35a@hotmail.co.uk
Supporting Parents through pregnancy, birth and beyond. Antenatal courses with Hypnobirthing, Beyond Birth and Birth Trauma support and Life Coaching. Tel: 07427720520 Email: pureserenity50@gmail.com
Siop Cwlwm
“Y Gorau o’r Gororau” Welsh Shop situated at 33 Bailey Street and online. Welsh books, cards, music, homeware & gifts Probably the only Welsh shop outside Wales! www.siopcwlwm.co.uk Tel: 01691 680401
Simla Tandoori Restaurant
Proudly serving the best Indian cuisine since 1976 to the local community 42, Beatrice St, Oswestry. 01691 659880 www.simla-oswestry.co.uk
Sun City
Stand-ups, Lie-downs and Infrared Sunbeds. Open 7 days a week A member of The Sunbed Association. Telephone 01691 661115 www.suncity-oswestry.co.uk
Tails and Trails Doggy Daycare
Purpose designed with softplay, agility, chill out areas, a puppy creche and much more! Unit 6A Whittington Business Park Oswestry Tel: 07429 123428 info@tailsandtrailsdaycare.com
Theodore’s Box
We are a family run business passionate about finding the perfect gift for your needs. We have an ever expanding range of personalised products that cater for all special occasions www.theodoresbox.co.uk
Time Invaders
Oswestry’s Comic Shop a treasure trove of comics, annuals, collectables, Retro Arcade entertainment & Gaming rooms. Dog friendly & all at 23 Cross Street. Tel 07946550916 www.timeinvaders.co.uk
Vicious Pink Tattoo Studio
Fully licensed. Check out work from Ruth, Sam, Gary, Karen and Libby on Facebook and Instagram. www.viciouspink.co.uk Tel: 01691 570427 Suite C, 9A Willow Street, Oswestry. SY11 1AF
White Wolf Cosmetics
A small family business, specialising in wax melts, wax burners and bath/cleaning products, all handmade in Shropshire. Located Oswestry indoor market. Cruelty and Vegan Friendly. Facebook@whitewolfcosmetic
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Minutes with the MP By Helen Morgan – MP for North Shropshire It has been a busy few months representing Oswestry, with huge news recently coming from the Rail Minister, that a rail link between Gobowen and Oswestry is to be funded to delivery – a really enormous step forward for the economic vitality and connectivity of town. The hard work done by the team at Cambrian Heritage Railways and campaigners across town are to thank for this, and for the glowing review given to the scheme by the Restore Your Railways fund, which said a rail link would offer very good value for money. I can think of other projects that would have a much smaller benefit at a much higher cost. A station has a multitude of benefits for a town the size of Oswestry. From getting people into town, to helping the high street, to getting people out of town and off to work without causing extra traffic. The number of opportunities created by a stronger public transport link will
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be enormous. This is of particular benefit to our younger residents, whose horizons will no doubt be expanded by a link to the mainline. Though there are questions to be answered, this is a big step for town. An understated benefit of this is also the addition of a stop at Park Hall, designed to serve Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Hospital – great for patients and great for recruiting staff, with RJAH able to pull from a larger pool along the mainline including those without access to a car. Since being elected, improving public transport and improving health services have been two of my top priorities – it’s great to have a win that will help both. There is still a lot of hard work to be done to ensure that money is spent wisely, that we are not met with delays, and that the plans are what people are hoping for. I’m committed to be part of that process and I know from the excitement I’ve heard out and about in the street and on the doorstep, people in Oswestry are too.
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LocaL Hero awards
With autumn well and truly here, and winter feeling like it’s not so far off, it must be that time again and boy did it come around fast. The fourth year of the Oswestry Life Local Hero Awards are here, which means it is time for you to get involved again! The awards are an opportunity to highlight those who have been giving it their all and working away, perhaps a little too quietly, but you feel deserve some extra special recognition for their hard work and behaviour. A total of twelve awards are up for grabs, each one very kindly being sponsored by local businesses, charities or organisations. All you need to do is select your nominee and let us know why you decided to nominate them. Is there somebody in your local community that has gone above and beyond? Perhaps an unsung hero, showing exemplary behaviour,
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dedication and compassion? Then take a minute to vote for them and give them the recognition that they deserve. With so many different awards to nominate for, be sure to get your vote(s) in. Voting is open as of now, you have until mid-January 2024 to have your say. With winners being revealed in our March 2024 issue. Get your vote in now and show someone their hard work and efforts have not gone unnoticed. Who is your local unsung hero? Votes can be cast on the Oswestry Life Facebook page, or by visiting our website at www.oswestry.life A big thank you to all of the sponsors who are involved with the awards, without you this would not be possible. It really goes to show how great of a community we live in.
NHS HERO OF THE YEAR sponsor: DRE Accountants
SPECIAL RECOGNITION sponsor: Oswestry Town Council
OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT
sponsor: Griffiths Hire Shops
CHARITY WORKER/ FUNDRAISER
sponsor: Martin & Jones Marketing
Thank you
CUSTOMER SERVICE/ DIVERSIFICATION sponsor: Oswestry BID
BRAVERY AWARD
sponsor: Tanat Valley & Light Railway
To each and every sponsor, for making this possible.
NEIGHBOUR OF THE YEAR
www.oswestry.life/local-hero-awards-2023
sponsor: Oswald’s Cars
YOUNG VOLUNTEER sponsor: Oswestry Museum
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR sponsor: Friends at the RJAH
CARER OF THE YEAR sponsor: Bluebird Care
INSPIRATIONAL YOUNG PERSON
sponsor: Oswestry Rotary Club
SPORTSPERSON OF THE YEAR
sponsor: Adrenaline Sporting Events
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Tools
Home & garden furniture Kids ride-on cars Tools, and much FREE LOCAL much more DELIV ERY
New store in Oswestry for quality items at great prices
Great gifts including a range of children’s ride-on vehicles with adult remote control
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Home and Garden furniture - Draper Tool products
www.theboxbaystore.com Maesbury Road Ind. Est. Oswestry SY10 8HA Tel: 07903 493409 Open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm Saturday 10am-5pm Sunday 10am-4pm
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www.newchaptersfostercare.co.uk or speak to our friendly team on 01952 463251.
Fitness
Management and Members Delight in Continued Growth at Oswestry Gym Coach House Fitness took over the former Wynnstay Hotel gym in January 2023 and since then has successfully evolved the business and established a new identity in the town. Investment, innovation and expansion have resulted in sustained growth over the first ten months of operation and the management now have their sights set on further development plans. Owner Rad Danailov said the key to Coach House Fitness’ success is their personal approach. “The biggest thing we offer is the personal touch. We are a relationship-based gym and have built a supportive community for our members.” The importance of the club to the lives of its members is clear to see. Longstanding member Margretta Clark recalls the dismay she felt on hearing that the gym was likely to close at the end of 2022. “It seemed impractical to close such a great facility that not only benefited many members from the local community but also guests at the hotel.” She has noticed many changes under the new management and that the team have, “pooled their experience and enthusiasm, taking the gym to another level entirely!” Additional equipment has been installed to increase the scope of training options, alongside the launching of free circuit classes for all members, and student and junior memberships have been introduced to widen access. Further innovations have been an intensive summer bootcamp run by an outside specialist and a supplement bar supporting pre and post workout nutritional needs. Keen member Adrian Bailey has been impressed that, “hardly a week goes by without some addition or improvement. It might be a new piece of equipment, a new competition or class, a new product or drink for sale,
(L-R) Isabelle, Luke, Rad and Liam.
or a new member of staff.” He says this gives the impression, “of a gym that is going places and that seeks constantly to create the best experience for its members.” Coach House Fitness has also welcomed two other businesses onto the site - Blush HQ Beauty Salon and Harry Evans Sports Therapy. This again has been part of Rad’s vision to create a centre for health and wellbeing rather than just fitness facilities. Rad works with some private clients 1-to-1 at the gym and instructor Luke Evans has also recently launched a bespoke personal training and online coaching service, incorporating nutritional and meal plan advice. Changes and increased membership have also seen an expansion of the team. Rad is adamant that Coach House Fitness is a gym that supports young people and those looking to train in a fitness career and during the year has taken on two trainees, supporting them in undertaking their fitness instructor qualifications. Isabelle McGuinness and Liam Grasier, both previously gym members, learned by shadowing experienced staff members and completing academic and practical assessments. Both are now qualified
fitness instructors and valued members of the team. “When Rad offered to support me in undertaking a Level 2 qualification I was so excited,” says Isabelle. “I was able to complete the course and work a few hours at the gym around my A Level studies and loved the experience. It’s a really fun environment to be in.” Member Laura Jones, who acknowledges she has not always been comfortable in a gym environment, reflected that, “Here the staff always show interest and have new ideas to keep it fresh.” She added, “Although some members naturally left with the proposed closure, lots of new people have joined and there’s more of a buzz now. It feels fresher, different. I’ve never enjoyed going to the gym as much.” Not resting on their success so far, the management are working on plans for future additions and expansion. “It’s still early days for us,” says Rad, “but we know where we want to take the club and now, we have a strong base we can’t wait to take the next steps.” For more information visit www.coachhousefitness.net Oswestry life
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Pain-Free Movement, Improve Mobility, Stability and Strength Tired of nagging aches or an old injury limiting you? Ready to enjoy walking, sports and life again? Movement coaching can help. Regain range of motion, prevent injury, build strength and boost wellbeing - no matter your age or ability. “ I started seeing Andrew due to experiencing lower back pain. After just a handful of sessions, I’m already feeling the benefits of his experience” - Jane S. Don’t live with pain, contact Andrew today for a consultation.
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Personal Training that fits you 18
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Cosy Coats
Fashion
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Curve Beige Fluffy Textured Coat £59, www.roman.co.uk
Coats don’t have to be frumpy when it’s cold and wet outside. Let’s have some fun with fabrics, so we went on a hunt to find something for everyone. There are a lot of muted colours this season but that’s the perfect opportunity to throw in a pocket sized colourful handbag!
The Tall Cream Formal Longline Coat £44.99, www.newlook.com Grayson Quilted Trench Coat £349, www.hollandcooper.com Brown Check Heritage Trench Coat £50, tuclothing.sainsburys.co.uk
The Short Floral Faux Fur Coat £95, www.oliverbonas.com Cream Faux Fur Revere Collar Coat £54.99, www.newlook.com
Bags Hanley Close Metallic Mini Flapover Magenta Crossbody Bag £159, www.radley.co.uk The Pixie Crossbody Bag £59, www.fatface.com
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BRINGING YOU THE VERY BEST IN RAW, APPROPRIATE FOOD FOR YOUR CARNIVOROUS ANIMALS Whether you are already a seasoned raw feeder or interested in switching your animals to a raw diet then we have everything you need and much more. As well as our large range of top quality raw minces, chunks and bones we also supply air dried chews and natural treats as well as herbal supplements to complement a natural diet.
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Book Appointments Register Your Pet Pet Health Plans
Telephone: 01691 897 199 3D CHURCH STREET, OSWESTRY, SY11 2SU 22
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Many pets can become anxious or frightened by the loud noises and bright lights that come with the firework displays on Bonfire Night and on New Year’s Eve. • For cats and dogs, create a den area in your home. Surrounding them with familiar bedding, toys and treats will immediately help them to feel secure. • Playing soothing music or using pheromone diffusers specifically designed for pets will also help create a calming environment. • For smaller animals, move their cage further into the house or into the garage. If they usually live outside and you don’t feel you can bring them in, give them some extra bedding and, if possible, cover their run with blankets to cut out light. • Ensure that all doors and windows are securely closed to prevent your pet from escaping if they become frightened. • Try to stay with your pet during the fireworks. Your presence can provide comfort and reassurance. Speak to them in a calm and soothing voice to help alleviate their anxiety. • If you know you won’t be at home, leave the radio or TV on so that the noises are at least masked. • Try to divert their attention from the fireworks. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or engaging in playtime can help keep them occupied. If your pet experiences severe anxiety or distress during fireworks, it would be worth speaking to your vet. They can provide guidance on potential medications or other strategies to help manage your pet’s anxiety.
MEET YOUR FIBRE HERO IN OSWESTRY
D OUT MORE?
HOW CAN I FIN
Your local Fibre Heroes Community Engagement Officer, Nicky Biddle, is here to answer any questions you have about the new network, so you can understand why we’re here and what we’re doing. Your community is what matters to us, and we want to put you all first, so please do speak to Nicky by:
Calling: 07719 085 375
Fibre Heroes are building a new full fibre network in your local area. This means you can get connected to internet with speeds between 150Mbps and 1000Mbps.
Emailing: nicola.biddle@fullfibre.co
FIBRE? WHAT IS FULL It’s an upgrade to the UK’s old copper network, where the fibre goes all the way to your home: giving you internet at the speed of light. It’s an unbeatable internet connection and it’s fully future-proof.
Community Investment Fund
SCAN HERE to send me an email!
Our community investment fund is here for local social groups and charities that are looking to improve what they do, or to try something new, using digital technology. You can find out more by contacting Nicky, or visiting our website: fibreheroes.co.uk/ community-investment-fund
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fun, active and inspiring
youth clubs GOBOWEN YOUTH CLUB MONDAYS 4:30PM - 6PM WESTON RHYN YOUTH CLUB MONDAYS 6:30PM - 8PM ELLESMERE YOUTH CLUB WEDNESDAYS 7PM - 8:30PM WHITTINGTON YOUTH CLUB 7 - 8:30 THURSDAYS 7PM - 8:30PM
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OSWESTRY YOUTH CLUB (IN ASSOCIATION WITH ) JUNIORS 4:30PM - 6PM & SENIORS 6:30PM - 8PM
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Community
Oswestry football club charity builds foundations for communities The New Saints FC Foundation – the charity linked to Oswestry’s football club - is celebrating a decade of inspiring individuals and communities across the area with a host of activities. Formed in 2013, the foundation has developed its community work to build an impressive series of activities for all ages and abilities. Last year it provided 4,280 holiday activity places across Oswestry, Whittington, St Martins, Gobowen, Weston Rhyn and Ellesmere; worked with over 1,500 children in its youth clubs; provided 4,000 free meals to those that needed them most; and oversaw over 230 fun football skills sessions. The foundation also works with schools to provide multi-sports afterschool clubs, alternative support for disengaged pupils, PE training for teachers and curriculum-based PE lessons. Gill Jones of The New Saints FC Foundation said it aimed to inspire, engage and strengthen local communities through fun and supportive activities. “Young people at our sessions don’t have to be sports fanatics but all our activities do have the common theme of activity and healthy eating to promote social inclusion and equality,” she said. The foundation team works with young people through youth clubs across northwest Shropshire, helping them connect with each other through healthy activities in their communities. Fun sessions for children aged from 10-16 years take place on Monday evenings at The Pavilion in Gobowen. The Weston Rhyn youth club is also held on Mondays at St John’s Church. The Ellesmere youth club meets on Wednesdays at Ellesmere Town Hall while Whittington youth club is held at the village’s senior citizens building on Thursday evenings.
Caption
The foundation helps to support the Oswestry Youth Club with Shropshire Youth Association. This is held on Wednesdays at The Centre in Oak Street with junior and senior sessions. It also provides All In sessions for children aged between four and sixteen who are registered with Shropshire Council as needing additional support. Weekly sessions take place from 4.15pm to 6.15pm every Thursday during term time at the Park Hall Venue, offering activities led by multisports coaches and support workers. “These are programmes for children who find it difficult to take part in many activities, but still want to enjoy sports, clubs and activities with other children. The sessions are really packed with fun and games geared to different abilities depending on the needs of each individual,” said Gill. During the school holidays, the foundation joins forces with partners to run free multi-activity events for children of all abilities which include a free lunchtime meal. Last year over 4,280 places were booked. At the other end of the age scale, the foundation is making sure that all adults have access to activities that can help keep them physically and mentally healthy. Its Walking Football sessions are held every Thursday
evening during term time from 8pm to 9pm at the Park Hall Venue for people of all ages and abilities to come together in a non-pressured environment. The foundation’s work also takes in promotion of women’s and girls’ football. Its head of women and girls football oversees training, coaching and an outreach programme. The TNS women’s first team has already risen to play in the Women’s Welsh Premier League and its success has shone a light on the pathway for girls to play at the highest levels. The foundation also organises fun football sessions for children and young people of all abilities, accredited by the FAW and sponsored by McDonalds. “The focus of these sessions is very much on supporting children to be fit and healthy and making sure they always get to be part of the team,” said Gill Jones. The foundation also helps with seasonal celebrations. Last year it held a Christmas dinner for seniors at the Park Hall Venue and in its summer celebrations include the popular TNS in the Park event to coincide with Oswestry Food Festival in July. Further information about the foundation and its work can be found at www.tnsfc.co.uk/foundation/ or by emailing info@tnsfcfoundation.org.uk Oswestry life
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Charity number: 1143519
56 Beatrice Street, Oswestry, SY11 1QW Foodbank opening times: Monday
11am-2pm - food parcel collections 9:30am-2pm - donations at the back door Wednesday 10am-12pm - appointment only Thursday 11am-2pm - food parcel collections 9:30am-2pm - donations at the back door 58 Beatrice Street free walk-in support services: Monday
10:30am-12:30pm - Women’s Aid - Samaritans
Thursday 11am-2pm - Mental health practitioner - Blood pressure/ general health checks (monthly) Citizens Advice Financial Services (by appointment only): Monday 9:30am-2pm Wednesday 9:30am-1pm Thursday 9:30am-2pm
Get Help Help Through Hardship:
Give Help
Scan to donate:
0808 208 2138 (Mon - Fri 9am-5pm) Shropshire Council Welfare Support Team: 0345 678 9078
Contact us Oswestry & Borders Foodbank: Phone: 0300 10 20 110 Email: referrals@oswestryandborders.foodbank.org.uk Website: oswestryandborders.foodbank.org.uk 26
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Text to donate: Text OANDB3 to 70029 to donate £3 Text OANDB5 to 70711 to donate £5 Text OANDB10 to 70039 to donate £10 *you will be charged the chosen donation amount plus one message at your standard network rate. Oswestry and Borders Foodbank will receive 100% of your donation less processing fees. You can provide consent for Oswestry and Borders Foodbank to claim an additional 25% tax benefit known as GiftAid on your donation by following the link provided.
Oswestry and Borders Foodbank part of the national Trussell Trust Charity Oswestry and Borders Foodbank has been established in the town since 2010. It has a dual purpose of providing emergency food and support to people locked in poverty, whilst campaigning for change to end the need for food banks in the UK. Located at 56 Beatrice Street, staff and a team of 35 amazing volunteers prepare emergency food parcels using donations received from the community. Households who are referred to the Foodbank receive a bespoke support package. The geographical area covered includes the town of Oswestry and the outlying villages, stretching into both Powys and Wrexham. Volunteer drivers deliver to households unable to collect for themselves. In October 2022, the foodbank became a Foodbank
In October 2022, the foodbank became a Foodbank PLUS with walk-in support services operating out of next door at number 58. PLUS with walk-in support services operating out of next door at number 58. These services include: The Samaritans, West Mercia Women’s Aid, Mental Health Practitioners and Public Health. Citizen’s Advice also work in partnership, offering appointments to those who access the Foodbank for help with the cost-of-living crisis, including accessing benefits, debt advice and financial budgeting. Over 125 agencies from health, education, social welfare, housing, and crisis teams are linked with the Foodbank and can refer people for support. People are referred for a variety of reasons; there is no ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to poverty. Debt, relationship break down, job loss, sudden illness, disabilities, an unexpected bill or struggling to keep up with the rising cost-of-living, can all drive people to crisis point. It is so important to break the stigma associated with being unable to afford the essentials, treating everyone with the dignity, respect, and the compassion they deserve. Many households who need support are on Universal Credit, including those who are working. Currently, UC is not providing enough to cover the costs of life’s essentials, such as food, household bills or travel costs. A new proposal from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and the Trussell Trust is calling on the Government for an ‘Essentials Guarantee’ to be built into our social security system. Local people can support the campaign by signing the ‘Guarantee Our Essentials’ petition at trusselltrust.org/ petition, where more information can also be found. Last year, Oswestry & Borders Foodbank provided 61 tonnes of food to 6904 people - a 38% increase on the
MP Helen Morgan’s recent visit to the Foodbank
Tony Maude, Chair of Trustees and Mayor Ollie Rose
previous year. The foodbank spent an extra £30,000 on food and toiletry items in addition to all the donations coming in. This year the demand is even greater and, with the rise in food costs, the projected spend for additional food purchases is estimated to total around £53,000, including £10,000 plus for Christmas food and gift hampers. The Foodbank is blessed with incredibly generous donors who give regularly through standing orders, but this does not cover all costs. A special thanks goes out for the Harvest and Christmas donations from local churches, charities, businesses, community groups and individuals, which ensure operations remain sustainable throughout the winter months and into next year. In May of this year, Oswestry & Borders Foodbank was named Mayor Ollie Rose’s co-charity of the year alongside OsNosh. Oswestry Town Council have provided funding for some projects which are currently underway, enhancing the vital work that is done to combat poverty in the town of Oswestry and surrounding areas. If you would like to find out more about O&B Foodbank, including how you can get help if you need it, and how you can give help if you are able, visit https:// oswestryandborders.foodbank.org.uk. You can also follow Oswestry and Borders Foodbank’s pages on Facebook and Instagram. Finally, Oswestry and Borders Foodbank would like to say a huge heart-felt thank you to all those who give so generously to supporting local people in crisis. Be it food, financial donations, or volunteering, you are making a huge difference to people’s lives when they need it most. Thank you! Oswestry life
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Author
On The Right Track Oswestry-based writer Paul Evans published his first book - at the age of 89! Proving that age is no barrier to success, Steaming Through Life is Paul’s fascinating account of his career on the railways during the age of steam engines. It follows the author from humble beginnings in Newtown Mid Wales to his life in London and subsequently closer to home in Shrewsbury. Today, Paul is an active member of the Cambrian Heritage Railway in Oswestry. “My biggest boyhood dream was to work on the magnificent steam horses that we think of as railway engines,” said Paul. “I started aged fourteen as lamp boy at Newtown railway station. But I was fortunate enough to carry on working on board a variety of steam engines and I loved it all.” Paul’s story is a memoir of life on board steam engines, filled with the adventures of a young man making his way in Paul and Pete Waterman the world. On the one hand it is a heartfelt personal narrative - with I wrote this book in tales of companionship and romance Paul presented Pete, who was a too - but it also tells of close shaves, longhand originally steam locomotive fireman before he pranks and near disasters. At the in 1959 and the books joined the music industry and is still a same time, Paul’s tale also provides were put away safely great railway enthusiast, with a copy of an increasingly rare insight into this his book ‘Steaming Through Life’ based golden age of transport - a period and colleagues and on his own career on the railways. which has all but gone. friends at the Cambrian The two were able to compare “I wrote this book in longhand Heritage Railway originally in 1959 and the books were notes on their lives on the railway. It put away safely and colleagues and was the closure of Wolverhampton insisted that I publish friends at the Cambrian Heritage depot in 1963 which drove Pete it as this is now Railway insisted that I publish it as Waterman to try and emulate his important history. this is now important history. As I heroes, the Beatles, and make his way had very little idea about computers, in music. Paul too had a change of I didn’t know how to go about getting career, but like Waterman he always it published, so I approached Dave retained his deep love of steam Andrews who is Reader and Writer in Residence at engines and continues to work as an active member of Oswestry library. Dave has been a tremendous help to Cambrian Railways in Oswestry. me and to my wife Jenny who has also done so much Dave Andrews, who worked as editor on Paul’s book, to support me. Dave has published a dozen books and said, “It’s always wonderful to publish your first book but it’s has helped lots of writers. Without his knowledge and an especially great achievement at the age of 89! Paul’s book experience my book would never have made it into print.” is written with tremendous energy and enthusiasm and his Though this period in our travel history has long since story captures a period in the history of the railways which disappeared, people today continue to be fascinated was almost lost. I’m delighted for him.” by steam engines and Paul’s book gives us a genuine, first-hand account of life as a railwayman as we travel Steaming Through Life is available with him to different parts of the country. It will be a from various outlets including the fascinating read for anyone with a passion for steam Cambrian Heritage Railways shop, engines or an interest in the daily life of those who Oswestry Library and Branchstow worked on the railways during the Golden Age of steam. Books (online) or direct from Paul It was a 90th birthday to remember for Paul when he at jennyevans1951@gmail.com. met record producer and songwriter Pete Waterman at a Price £8.99 plus P&P recent railway event. 28
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Community
Success for Oswestry Royal British Legion Branch ‘What a difference a year makes’ and it certainly has! This time last year, Royal British Legion Branch Chairman, Neil Lawrenson appealed for new volunteers and members to join the Oswestry branch, at a time when its future was in jeopardy. “I am now pleased to say that the Oswestry Branch has turned a corner, and the future looks bright as it moves forward. In January we held a ‘way ahead meeting’, where we formed a committee and were able to start the process of trying to get the branch back on its feet,” Neil said. “This year on 15 April, we held an RBL Oswestry Branch re-launch event at our new home, the Oswestry Cricket Club, featuring the Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr Male Voice Choir. The event was a great success and has led to other events and activities. During this past year, the branch membership has risen from 41 to almost 70 members, which is great news and will only increase more as the branch matures. Through the support of Oswestry Cricket Club and the RV Vets, we now have a home and meet on the 2nd Tuesday of the month between 10am-12pm and the last Friday of the month, between 5.30pm-7.30pm. This now allows members and potential new members to socialise, chat, find out about RBL, branch news and seek advice or help.
This November, Oswestry Branch will be supporting the Poppy Appeal across the area and hope it will be as successful as last year’s appeal, which saw the Oswestry community raise just over £31,000. As it grows, the branch wants to help direct some of the money raised, back into the community towards its veterans and their families. During this year’s Poppy Appeal, when you donate and wear your poppy with pride, please remember what the poppy represents. For over 100 years, The Royal British Legion has been the leading charity which has tirelessly helped and supported serving, veterans and families of the UK Armed Forces, but this can only continue with the hard work of its volunteers and members in branches across the UK. To become a volunteer or to find out more, contact Oswestry Branch Chairman, Neil Lawrenson on 07832 427 013 or email Oswestry.Chairman@RBL. Community To become a member, visit the RBL website www.britishlegion.org.uk or call 0800 802 8080. Remember, anyone can become a member of the Royal British Legion regardless of whether they have served in His Majesties Forces or not.
Top left: Re-launch Evening, featuring the Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr Male Voice Choir Top right:– An evening with the Porthywaen Silver Band Above L-R: Supporting Armed Forces Day at OCC; RBL Oswestry member on Poppy Appeal duties at Sainsbury’s; New ‘Home of the RBL Oswestry’ sign, courtesy of Jean @ Sign & Design (Shropshire) Ltd
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Christmas at Looking for Christmas ideas? Come and visit us at Derwen Marketplace and find a feast of delights, including: • • • • •
A wonderful array of bespoke and locally produced gift items Derwen College-made jams and chutneys Derwen College-made Christmas cakes (pre-orders necessary) Bespoke, hand-picked hampers Beautiful Christmas cards that support our charity, only £3.50 for a pack of 10. • Fresh Christmas trees. We’ll even deliver if you live within a 5-mile radius! Prices start at £27. Our charming Orangery Restaurant will be serving Christmas lunches on Mondays to Fridays from 27 November to 15 December. And don’t forget our award-winning charity shop – The Vintage Advantage – for a selection of high quality clothing and more at a fraction of high street prices.
Derwen College is a registered charity supporting students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Derwen Marketplace provides our students with valuable work experience.
Open 7 days a week. Free parking.
Derwen Marketplace Twmpath Lane, Gobowen SY11 3JA
www.derwen.ac.uk 01691 661234 Oswestry life
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Annual Firework Display
SATURDAY 4TH NOVEMBER – 6PM UNTIL 8PM Annual event in Cae Glas Park. Gates open at 6pm. Reduced sound fireworks at 7pm. Street food and concessions, Entertainment. Free event but donations encouraged as all proceeds will go to local charities
Christmas Light Switch On
THURSDAY 16TH NOVEMBER – FROM 4PM
Local schools and musical groups perform on the large stage held on the Bailey Head to celebrate the switching on of the Christmas Lights often with special guests. Great family night out.
artisan Market
FRIDAY 24TH NOVEMBER 9AM UNTIL 3PM
CHRISTMAS PARTY
INDOOR MARKET WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY AND
However you wish to celebrate, let us help you capture ture tthe he spir spirit rit of able. Christmas and make this year’s festivities truly memora memorable.
SATURDAY Parking available adjacent to Powis Hall
OUTDOOR MARKET WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY Tel: 01691 680222 www.oswestrymarket.co.uk @OswestryTC
CHILDREN FROM FIVE / ADULTS VERY WELCOME
MOST INSTRUMENTS & SINGING ‘MEET THE TUTOR’
before starting your Trial (No obligation Short Consultation).
Enquiries: 01492 535184
www.northwalesmusictuition.co.uk North Wales Music Tuition Centres Registered Charity No.1156684
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Book your
Handpicked Shropshire based food and craft producers selling the best the County has to offer in the town centre.
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inator Speak to our dedicated Christmas Coordinator for more information. jenniferbridger@ymail.com
Proudly sponsored by
OCCS Media Partner 2023
07557 950335
ADVERTISING FEATURE ADVERTISING FEATURE
Fill your your diary diary with with friendship friendship Fill Fill your diary with friendship ADVERTISING FEATURE
Oswestry Oddfellows is inviting people Oswestry Oddfellows is inviting who are looking for new things topeople who are looking for new things to of do, or ways to broaden their circle Oswestry Oddfellows is inviting people do, or ways to broaden their circle of friends, to give them a go. who are looking for new things to friends, to give them a go. Theor local friendly society’s their members regularly do, ways to broaden circle of get together to enjoy a mix of affordable The local friendly society’s members regularly friends, to give them a go.
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events, sometoofenjoy whicha mix are free. Events include get together of affordable The local friendly society’s members regularly coffee mornings, dining out, games evenings events, some of which are free. Events include get together to enjoy a mix ofgames affordable or exercise classes, and though the type of coffee mornings, dining out, evenings events, someclasses, of which free. Events include events vary but theyand allare have some things or exercise though the type ofin coffee mornings, dining out, games evenings common – friendship and a warm events vary but they all have somewelcome! things in or exercise– classes, andand though the welcome! type of common friendship a warm Branchvary Secretary Vivienne believes events but they all haveOsborne some things in that trying new things is better in good Branch Secretary Vivienne Osborne believes common – friendship and a warm welcome! company. their local group is a that tryingShe newsays things is better in good Branch Secretary believes ready-made setsays ofVivienne friends toOsborne enjoy company. She their local groupspending is a that things better in good timetrying with, new and areisalways looking for ready-made setthey of friends to enjoy spending company. local group is afor newcomers tosays join them. time with,She and theytheir are always looking ready-made set of friends to enjoy spending newcomers to join Vivienne “Wethem. have somelooking great events time with, says: and they are always for coming up. In November we have a Beetle Vivienne says: “We have some great events newcomers to join them. Drive onup. theIn7th and our regular coming November we haveCoffee a Beetle Vivienne “We some great events Morning on 28th, both at The Memorial Drive on says: thethe 7th andhave our regular Coffee coming up. November a Beetle Hall in Oswestry. In December it is our Morning onInthe 28th, bothweathave The Memorial Drive theLunch 7th and our regular Christmas at Keys and January Hall inonOswestry. In The December itCoffee isinour Morning onLunch the time 28th, at The it’s pantomime atboth the Shrewsbury Severn Christmas at The Keys andMemorial in January Hall in Oswestry. In and December it is ourIt’s Theatre to see Jack theShrewsbury Beanstalk. it’s pantomime time at the Severn Christmas at Keys andfind in January your opportunity to The come along, out Theatre toLunch see Jack and the Beanstalk. It’smore it’s pantomime time at the Shrewsbury Severn aboutopportunity us and havetosome your comefun. along, find out more Theatre to see Jack and the Beanstalk. It’s about us and have some fun. Order of Odd Fellows Manchester Unity Friendly Society Limited, Incorporated and registered in England and Wales No. 223F. The Oddfellows is the trading name of The Independent Registered Officeout Oddfellows House, 184-186 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3WB. your opportunity to come along, find more The Oddfellows is the trading name of The Independent Order of Odd Fellows Manchester Unity Friendly Society Limited, Incorporated and registered in England and Wales No. 223F. about us and have some fun.Registered Office Oddfellows House, 184-186 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3WB. The Oddfellows is the trading name of The Independent Order of Odd Fellows Manchester Unity Friendly Society Limited, Incorporated and registered in England and Wales No. 223F. Registered Office Oddfellows House, 184-186 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3WB.
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Food & Drink
Jazz apple and ginger dhal As we head into winter, give your immune system a boost – and your taste buds a treat – with this nourishing and vibrant dhal. Serves 4 Preparation time 10 minutes Cooking time 40-45 minutes
Ingredients • 1 tbsp coconut oil • 1 tsp curry powder • 1 tsp cumin powder • ½ tsp cayenne pepper • 1 white onion, peeled and finely chopped • A thumb-size piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated • A small piece of fresh turmeric, grated • 3 cloves garlic, crushed • 1 Jazz apple, grated on the large holes of a box grater • 200g red split lentils, well rinsed • 1 x 400g tin coconut milk • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste To serve • Lime juice, coconut yoghurt, chopped coriander and a sprinkle of chilli flakes 34
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Method 1. Add the coconut oil to a large pan over a medium heat. Once hot, add the curry and cumin powders and cayenne pepper, and cook for a few minutes, stirring to prevent burning. 2. Add the onion and cook for 5-6 minutes, until the onion starts to caramelise and turn golden. 3. Add the ginger, turmeric and garlic and cook for another couple of minutes. Add the apple and lentils and stir to mix. 4. Stir in the coconut milk and 500ml water and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, until the lentils are soft and the consistency is creamy. Season with salt and black pepper. 5. Serve with a squeeze of lime juice and top with a dollop of coconut yoghurt, chopped coriander and some chilli flakes.
Recipe created by Elisa Rossi, founder of Happy Skin Kitchen (www.happyskinkitchen.com), using Jazz apples (www.jazzapple.com/uk).
All we want for Christmas is you! Christmas planning is in full swing here at the Sweeney the only missing ingredient is YOU! So put on your best Christmas jumper and Santa hat and join us for one of our Christmas Party nights. Our party nights are running the first 3 Fridays and Saturdays in December.
After something more Intimate?
We have a variety of private rooms here at the Sweeney and our Festive menu will be running Lunch and Dinner. Pre booking is essential. Once Christmas is out the way we all know we don’t want to do anything on Boxing day - Except come to the Sweeney of course. Let us finish your Christmas off with our lovely Boxing day lunch menu.
Festive Menu
TO START Truffle Mushroom Soup served with Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Smoked Salmon, Lemon and Dill Paté with Horseradish Creme Fraiche and Pita Chips Christmas Stuffing Scotch Egg with Cranberry Mustard and Cress (V) Cheese Baked Ham Hock MAIN COURSE Roast Turkey Crown with Pigs in Blankets, Christmas Stuffing, Cranberry Relish and Pan Gravy Porcini Buttered Roast Topside Beef with Pickled Peppercorn Sauce Dauphinoise Potato Pie with Comté and Caramelised Onion, served with Parsley Sauce (V) Pan Fried Moroccan Style Salmon with Smoked Aubergine, Green Beans, Almonds and Spiced Sauce All mains to be served with rosemary and seasalt roast potatoes, maple roasted roots and buttered sprouts DESSERT Traditional Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce Mulled Fruit Creme Brûlée with Cinnamon Dusted Shortbread Baked Vegan Chocolate Cheesecake with Clementines and Raspberries Tiramisu Pavlova Monday-Saturday Lunchtime and Monday-Thursday Evening Two Courses £25 Three Courses £30 Friday and Saturday Evening with DJ Three Courses £32.50
Morda, Nr. Oswestry, Shropshire, SY10 9EU Tel: 01691 652 450 Email: hello@thesweeneyhotel.com Web: thesweenyhotel.com Oswestry life
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thetap Join a Local League In case you weren’t aware, dominoes is still a much-loved game played across local pubs with teams competing on a regular basis. Whether it’s a local pub or one a little farther away, there’s hospitality and camaraderie a plenty. This is one way to get involved in your local pub’s community and start a new hobby, even if you don’t drink alcohol. The game of dominoes itself is a fantastic way to engage with others. It requires strategy, skill, and a touch of luck, making it an enjoyable challenge for players of all levels. The friendly nature of the competition makes it even more enjoyable, as everyone participates in a spirit of sportsmanship and encouragement. It’s not just about winning or losing, but about the shared experience and the connections established along the way. The Warren has teamed up with The George on Bailey Street and now provides the half-time food for the dominoes teams during match nights. After each game, we gather together to chat over a drink and it’s a chance to unwind and share stories. These post-game conversations often lead to laughter, reminiscing, and even planning future outings. It’s these moments that truly make being a part of The George’s Dominoes team special. If you’re interested in joining a dominoes team, there are always pubs looking for players. It’s a great way to socialise, meet new people, and have fun. The tradition of pub teams and local leagues is still very much alive and a big part of the community pub scene. Join us at The George’s Dominoes nights and be a part of this wonderful community. Let’s make new friends, compete in a friendly atmosphere, and enjoy the game of dominoes together. Cheers!
Matt Lee The Warren 2 Albion Hill, Oswestry SY11 1QA 01691 907100 thewarren.social
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Indian Restaurant
Book your Xmas party with us this festive season
Takeaway collection and delivery available
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and New Year Celebrations
Christmas Party Nights Festive Dining
Residential Packages over Christmas or New Year
Available on selected dates in December £37 per adult (Sun to Thurs) £42.00 per adult (Fri & Sat)
It will soon be time to indulge yourself and make the most of the jolly season with an outing to The Wynnstay Hotel. Our chefs have devised a truly festive menu (available throughout December from 12noon), full of the season’s best treats. £32 per adult, £16 per child
Christmas Day Lunch
We know how special Christmas Day should be. It is a day to spend time with your loved ones, so let us take care of your Christmas lunch, leaving you to make those all important memories. £85 per adult, £42.50 per child Pre-booking and pre-payments essential.
New Year’s Eve
Celebrate the new year in style! Our New Year’s Eve Celebration includes an arrival drink and a four course menu, as well as live entertainment. Book early as this event is sure to be one of the hottest tickets in town. £95 per adult
✷ Browse all our delicious festive menus online at www.wynnstayhotel.co.uk
Telephone
01691 655 261
to make a booking Oswestry life
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HENLLE
New Opening Hours
HEIGHTS
Nestling in beautiful woodland, Henlle Heights has been especially designed and built with passion to provide a beautiful area for our guests to relax, unwind and enjoy our freshly cooked food.
Exciting new menu Xmas party booking from small groups to exclusive use
Scrumptious breakfasts Relaxing lunches Fabulous new evening dinner menu. Speciality Cakes and Bar Snacks available all day
FOOD SERVED 7 DAYS A WEEK BREAKFAST: 9AM TO 11AM LUNCH: 11:30 AM TO 2:30 PM (MONDAY – SATURDAY) SUNDAY ROAST: 12PM TO 2:30 PM *LATER CHECK-IN AVAILABLE BY REQUEST.
RECEPTION
RESTAURANT
Tel: 01691 662000
Email: info@henllehall.com
OPENING HOURS MONDAY – SATURDAY: 9AM – 5PM* SUNDAY: 9AM – 3PM
Tel: 01691 505338
Email: restaurant@henlleheights.com
HENLLE HALL, HENLLE LANE, SY10 7AX - JUST OFF THE A483 BYPASS
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Culture
POETRY
FILM OF THE MONTH
My Warm Spaces By Pauline Faulkner - WOW workshop A glowing fire Warmth fills the room Curtains closed; door locked Shutting out doom and gloom. A taste of heaven Just the dog,coffee,TV We have our taste of luxury. Dinner cooked,eaten Dishes washed, drained All before the light of moon. The evening will fade The fires embers will die Time for the duvet’s warmth.
Short Term 12 (15)
STREAMING NOW ON ITVX AND AVAILABLE TO RENT OR BUY. It’s the movie you’ve never heard of with a starry cast you have. Two Oscar winners, Brie Larson (Room) and Rami Malek (Bohemian Rhapsody), plus future stars including Kaitlyn Dever and Lakeith Stanfield among others, feature in an ensemble cast of a film that will break your heart, then put most of it back together again. Set in a group care home for teenagers in the US, Short Term 12 focuses on the relationship between Supervisor Grace (Larson), her colleague and partner Mason, and the residents of the home. Most of the films takes place over a tumultuous few days during which Grace discovers she is pregnant, gets over protective with a new resident she suspects is being abused at home, and has to help another resident navigate leaving the home. So far so typical US indie drama, what sets this one apart is not only a uniformly brilliant cast with not a duff note present, but the sheer empathy it generates as it moves towards a gripping finale. Tiny everyday events, like the discovery of a toy a resident thought lost, will have you celebrating along with the staff as they try their best in a failing system. Larson is superb as Grace, her own traumatic past triggered anew by the new arrival’s similar history, struggling to help within the limits she’s bound by. A scene where Grace takes the law into her own hands has the grip of a thriller and is almost-but-not-quite unbearable to sit through. Ending on a note of bright optimism you didn’t think possible 10 minutes earlier. Short Term 12 is simply a perfect film that fits a lot of heart and humanity into 96 minutes. Watch it and you’ll be wondering why you never heard of it before. By Michael Hudson 40
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Time to dream I am being warmed By a golden sun Lying on white sands Stretching out to a blue sea Maybe one day My dream will be real.
Charity Christmas cards
A POP-UP SHOP IN A POP-UP SHOP IN ST OSWALD’S PARISH CHURCH, ST OSWALD’S PARISH CHURCH, OSWESTRY OSWESTRY WILL BE OPEN TO SELL will be open to sell CHRISTMAS CARDS & GOODS ON BEHALF OF Christmas cards &CHARITIES goods LOCAL AND NATIONAL
on behalf of FROM SATURDAY 29thcharities OCTOBER local and national th TO SATURDAY 10 DECEMBER
FROM SATURDAY 28TH OCTOBER TO SATURDAY 9TH DECEMBER 10AM TO 4PM (MONDAY TO SATURDAY)
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A friendly local taxi service operating in Oswestry and surrounding areas
AIRPORT TRANSFERS AVAILABLE We will now be accepting bookings for up to 8 seats with our new driver starting in a Ford Minibus. We strive to offer the best service possible in Oswestry and this addition will increase our availability to larger groups or weddings wanting to get home! The driver/vehicle will be available Thursday-Saturday evenings subject to availability.
DRIVERS WANTED
• Oswalds Vehicle or Own Vehicle (Shropshire Plated) • Over 25 Required (Insurance Purposes) • Shropshire Taxi Badge Required • Weekly Earnings
We accept card payments in all our vehicles
Bookings@oswaldscars.co.uk
01691 596 596 Oswestry life
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How college open events help you shape your future
Open events – when a college throws open its doors to people who might want to apply – offer the perfect opportunity to get a feel for what life is like at the college and find out what your options are. Events take place either during the day or early evening. You and your parents or guests can chat to tutors, check out learning resources and wander around the campus at leisure. Herefordshire College, Ludlow Sixth Form College, Walford College, North Shropshire College and Holme Lacy College hold open events several times a year and dates and timings can be found on each college’s webpage – hlnsc.ac.uk where you can book free tickets to attend.
Why are they important?
Open events are fundamental in helping you build a clearer picture of where you see yourself in the future and what courses or training will help you achieve your goals. They provide a chance to find out detailed information about courses, apprenticeships, higher education and/or university level study. First impressions are crucial, and your visit could completely change your mind about what you want to do, or where you want to learn.
What happens at an open event?
One of our friendly front-of-house team will register you and find out what you’re interested in finding out about. You might have a particular course in mind, want to attend a talk, or just have a wander about – it’s up to you! Tutors are available to talk to you about what the courses actually include, entry requirements,
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their own industry experience and progression options. You can talk to our student support team about the practicalities of college life or make an appointment to have a chat with our careers advisor.
How to attend
Upcoming open events are advertised outside each college, on the college home page and via social media. To avoid queues, we normally ask people to book a time slot in advance – but it’s fine just to turn up if you’re not sure. Before you come, there are some things you can do and think about, so you will make the most of the event: • Check the website to see which courses are available at your preferred college • Think about what you want to do in the future and which courses might help • Consider what’s important to you in terms of a college campus • Think about questions you might want to ask – such as does the course include written exams? How much of the course is hands-on? What will the timetable look like?
About us
HLNSC is made up of five colleges across Herefordshire & Shropshire, based in Hereford, Ludlow, Oswestry and Baschurch (near Shrewsbury). We deliver high quality academic, technical, professional and community learning to 2,400 fulltime and 6,000 part-time students, and train around 700 apprentices each year. We are rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted, with our students’ attitudes and behaviours ranked ‘Outstanding’ (Oct 2022).
Contact us via www.hlnsc.ac.uk call 0800 032 1986 or email enquiries@hlnsc.ac.uk
Open Events The best way to get a feel for what our colleges are like is to come and visit. North Shropshire College
Walford College
Wednesday 18th October 2023 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Saturday 14th October 2023 10:00am - 12:30pm
Saturday 3rd February 2024 10:00am - 12:00pm
Saturday 3rd February 2024 10:00am - 12:30pm
Wednesday 12th June 2024 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Saturday 15th June 2024 10:00am - 12:30pm
Ludlow Sixth Form College
Herefordshire College
Saturday 13th January 2024 10:00am - 12:00pm
Saturday 11th November 2023 10:00am - 12:00pm
Tuesday 9th July 2024 4:30pm - 7:00pm
Wednesday 17th January 2024 5:00pm - 7:00pm Tuesday 5th March 2024 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Holme Lacy College Saturday 11th November 2023 10:00am - 12:00pm
hlnsc.ac.uk
Tuesday 5th March 2024 5:00pm - 7:00pm Oswestry life
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Health with Dr Paul Middleton
Cancer is a word, not a sentence
John Diamond
Did you see a lot of people in pink on 27 October? Perhaps you were one of them? That Friday was breast cancer awareness day and most people in pink were acknowledging this – perhaps for some it was just a coincidence! 50,000 women each year will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK - it will affect 1 in 7 women in their lives. Just stop and think of the female members of your family, your friends, your colleagues and even your children: 1 in 7 is a big number and everyone will be touched by this disease in some way. The good news is that treatments have improved and 85% of women will survive more than five years after diagnosis. The crucial factor here is early diagnosis and that’s where breast awareness (not cancer awareness) and breast screening (i.e. a mammogram) come in. Symptoms suggesting a possibility of breast cancer include nipple changes, nipple discharge, skin changes and, the most common, a new breast lump. The problem is that breasts are naturally a bit lumpy, particularly at
The crucial factor here is early diagnosis and that’s where breast awareness and breast screening come in. the end of the menstrual cycle. The best answer is for all women to become familiar with how their breasts look and feel so that they can spot any change as early as possible. The nhs.uk website has good advice on how best to go about this. How does anyone reduce their risk? Sadly, it is the usual killjoy doctor advice! More exercise, keeping your weight down, less alcohol and a diet with less saturated fat - and that means less cheese, biscuits, chocolate and cake! Again, the NHS website gives more detailed advice. Some families have a stronger genetic tendency to develop breast cancer and if there is a family history of breast cancer or you already know a relative has one of the relevant genes then your GP can advise further.
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Sara Hadfield, McTimoney Chiropractor BSc (Hons) Chiro MMCA GCC Reg No 02362 Ann Williams, McTimoney Chiropractor MChiro MMCA GCC Reg No 04118 Ian Staniforth, Massage Therapist
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Bluebird Care Oswestry is recruiting! If you feel you have what it takes to care, call us, we’d love to hear from you
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Exceptional home care visits from exceptional carers
HEALTH & WELLBEING
WE PROVIDE EXCEPTIONAL HOMECARE IN A RANGE OF SERVICES:
Be Winter-ready with Herbal Remedies
• 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.
Find out more about how a Visiting Angel can help call 01691 888 558 northshropshire@visiting-angels.co.uk
With the nights drawing in and the change in the weather, we are all familiar with the approach of winter. For some it could mean the familiar winter cold, an increase in aches and pains due to cold and damp or a slump in mood for many. The harvest season brings us a cornucopia of wonderful things for us to preserve and use throughout the winter months. Just a few simple remedies out of the kitchen cupboard can be simple and helpful. Even our spice racks can hold some untapped secrets. In days gone by, every household made and used their own remedies from the garden ad hedgerow, but everyone is so busy now, we are out of the habit and losing the knowledge.
Keep it simple!
Ginger and lemon tea, with a teaspoon of honey is very soothing in the early stages of a cold. You don’t have to have teabags ready in the cupboard, you can easily put a quarter teaspoon of ginger powder from the spice rack into a mug of boiling water with a slice of lemon and a little honey. This will warm up your system and help revive you. The lemon naturally contains vitamin C and the honey has natural antimicrobial effects. Using essential oils can also be very helpful. Eucalyptus oil is wonderfully clearing and can easily be added to a footbath or used on the feet (diluted in a carrier oil). Using it on the soles of the feet before bedtime will assist with a blocked nose or stuffy chest, allowing you to sleep better. Ginger is also useful for joint pain and arthritis. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in those that are worse in the cold and damp. Ginger is also very useful for nausea and recovery from tummy upsets, cold extremities and where there is poor arterial circulation. If ginger is too strong for you, cinnamon and cardamom have similar but milder effects. Use what you have!
Louise Idoux MSc. MNIMH Member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists, Oswestry Herbarium, tel 01691 656934 46
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Healthy Focus
Spirituality and Health
Claire arnold The Meadows osTeopaTh CliniC
are you struggling with
Back & Neck Pain? Sports Injuries? Joint & Muscle Pain? Headaches? Womens Health Issues? Grumpy Babies & Children? Sleep, Stress or Nutrition Concerns?
We can Help
Claire Arnold Registered Osteopath & Lifestyle Medicine Practitioner
Hands-on Cranial & Structural Osteopathic Care & Lifestyle Medicine Advice to support your family’s optimal health Call 07792 367507 Based at oswestry herbarium & Massage Centre, 15 Albion Hill
themeadowsosteopathclinic-clairearnoldosteopath.com
Ear Wax Trouble? Sister Kate can help
te s ur Ka nd rd yo . er e bi ll ns st m g a io si com min for lut re m are so u h gc aid rin ng ea ri h hea
Research has shown a connection between your beliefs and health. Positive beliefs, comfort, and strength gained from religion, meditation, prayer or quiet contemplation can all contribute to a sense of wellbeing and may even promote healing. Improving your spiritual health may not cure an illness but it could help you feel better. locally there are a number of traditional places of worship (web search for those near you) in addition to more holistic experiences. slip into a deeply peaceful state with Yoga, Breathwork and a Gong sound bath – 10 nov: www.turiyayoga. co.uk/workshops-retreats or a mindfulness and meditation session at open space studios. Call sarah on 07890 854710 or email sarah@ openspacestudioscic.com. spirituality can also be linked to greater awareness of the natural world around us which can frequently be a source of ‘awe’. Research suggests that awe can make us happier, healthier and even more humble, so how do we go about finding those awe-inspiring moments? why not try forest bathing (known in Japan as shinrin yoku) in some of the wonderful woodlands around us? The simple method of being calm and quiet amongst the trees, observing nature around you whilst breathing deeply can help both adults and children de-stress and boost health and wellbeing in a natural way. don’t forget to turn off your mobile phone to have the best chance of relaxing, being mindful and enjoying a sensory forest-based experience. with the nights getting longer, looking up and appreciating the night sky can give you a mood boost. Take a wander (maybe with a torch to find your way) to the old Racecourse or hill Fort on a clear night and look up for some impressive sights. if you’d like to learn more we have shropshire astronomical society with monthly meetings and public lectures to guide you. Visit www.shropshireastro.uk The spaceguard Centre is a working observatory in Knighton, powys and is the main source of information about near earth objects in the UK. Visit www.spaceguardcentre.com have a happy healthy month!
sister Kate specialises in micro suction treatments to help patients remove excessive ear wax that is causing a blockage that has resulted in hearing loss or is causing unpleasant feelings in the ear.
Microsuction Ear Wax Service
The cost for this procedure is £60.00
Please note that it is the same cost for one or both ears Please email, call or visit the website to book today:
Tel: 01691 888192 Email: kate@sister-kate.co.uk www.sister-kate.co.uk
The Fort, Artillery Business Park, Oswestry SY11 4AD Alongside our main clinic in Oswestry, we now have monthly clinics available in Shrewsbury, Wem, Whitchurch, Newtown and Aberystwyth too.
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Sport
Netball for All Did you know our wonderful town is home to a wellestablished Netball league? Oswestry & District Netball League is home grown and has been running upwards of 40 years. No, it’s nothing like when you played at school – well, the rules are the same but playing with people of all abilities who want to be there and enjoy the exercise and being part of a team, brings a major buzz to the game. There’s no need to assume you need to be of an elite standard to play or of a certain age. This league is open to everyone, with players joining for all sorts of reasons and of all levels of play. If you have fond memories of playing the game at school or have never played at all – here’s your chance to get involved and enjoy the sport. The league runs from September through to March/April time and currently runs a total of 10 teams. Some teams need subs throughout the season so there are usually opportunities to join mid-way. Netball is the perfect way to find both fitness and social connections. To keep things above board and to make sure all members get to experience a fair game, the committee ensures the Oswestry& District League are a registered league with England Netball. “This means we can protect all players with rules and regulations, have access to professional coaches and umpires and the Head of Well-being from England Netball – that’s a real kudos as it provides a huge support for members. As a not-forprofit enterprise, the committee can focus on the players, making sure everyone has an equal chance of playing. We hold an AGM and invite businesses to get involved through sponsoring the kit for teams - it’s all about the community and taking part,” the committee explained. And if that’s not enough to convince you to re-visit this fantastic sport, Netball is the second largest women’s
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team sport in Europe. Being a grass roots sport creates opportunity locally for all involved. The Oswestry league even have a Welsh under 21 player in their midst – so it goes to show that anything can happen when you’re passionate enough about your hobby. Netball was first played in our country in 1895, with nine and five-a-side versions of the game! Today, teams compete in the Commonwealth Games and although it isn’t an Olympic sport yet, the organisation World Netball, is working towards that inclusion. The committee was keen to talk about the diversity of people getting involved in the league. “We find that family members join in when they hear about the league. For example, if mums play, their daughters tend to as well. We have such a range of ages and fitness levels playing, that the teams are greatly mixed, and everyone has fun. We also promote a ‘Players Player’ award at every match which adds to the excitement.” The club meets at Oswestry School every Monday evening. Matches are held at 6.30pm, 7.30pm and 8.30pm. Come along and watch or to speak to committee members at the match. You can follow the Oswestry & District Netball League via Instagram @oswestrydistrictnetballleague, Facebook or email oswestrynetballleague@gmail.com for more information.
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advertisement feature
Success of Oswestry bookshop welcomed by legal experts The success of an Oswestry bookseller, which is opening another shop in Shropshire, is evidence that retailers can flourish even during tough economic times. That’s the view of a legal specialist who worked on the lease for the new Booka bookshop, due to open in Bridgnorth in mid-October. Tania McGee, commercial property lawyer at Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors in Oswestry, said Booka’s success was a good news story for the Shropshire business community. She said, “The High Street continues to evolve, and we all appreciate that independent businesses are up against a series of challenges to survive and thrive. “Rising interest rates and high inflation mean that many of us are finding less cash in our pockets to spend in town centre shops - but despite these difficult times, there are still success stories to celebrate. “I was delighted to assist the owners of Booka bookshop, a mainstay of Oswestry town centre in recent years, with the commercial lease for their new shop in Bridgnorth. “The new store is due to open later in September,
and it’s a testament to the strength of the business that they are expanding their operation during such tough economic conditions. “As a commercial property lawyer, I am always conscious of how changes in the market can present opportunities for clients, and I know Tim and Carrie have been looking for the right premises for a new shop for a while.” Tim Morris, owner of Booka, said, “When 72 High Street, Bridgnorth, became available, we acted quickly to begin negotiations with the agent/owner and instructed Lanyon Bowdler to advise and act for us in the drafting and completion of the lease for the premises. “We worked closely with Tania McGee at Lanyon Bowdler throughout the process and it was great to reach a successful conclusion and get the keys to the premises.” Tania said Booka was a good example of a business which had adapted to become more than simply a retail outlet, offering added value to its customers. She added, “The success of Booka is proof that there is still an appetite for good quality shops which offer a great customer experience.” For any commercial property legal assistance, contact Tania on 01691 652241 or visit www.lblaw.co.uk
Our People, Your Team.
Find Us: 39 - 41 Church Street, Oswestry, SY11 2SZ Tel: 01691 652241 • info@lblaw.co.uk • www.lblaw.co.uk
Shrewsbury • Bromyard • Conwy • Hereford • Ludlow • Oswestry • Telford 50
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If you need help to protect and make sense of your money...
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restmore.co.uk
Zero Gravity recliner chairs designed to promote health and comfort. We offer a FREE no obligation in home demonstration and all of our products come with FREE delivery. Elevate your comfort, one recline at a time.
01691 655194 | Unit 3, Artillery Business Park, Oswestry, SY11 4AD | info@restmore.co.uk
CARPET KING OSWESTRY
£64.99 01691 656760 www.carpetkingoswestry.uk 52
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advertisement feature
Business Shortlisted for National Award Oswestry Kitchens and bathrooms have been shortlisted in the National KBB Focus Awards 2023 – Best Kitchen Retailer. Ben and Michael opened their showroom in Oswestry just under three years ago and have quickly proven their track record within this sector. Ben said, “To be selected as a finalist is such an honour. The KBB Focus Awards are chosen purely on merit which means such a lot to us. We will be attending the awards ceremony on 30 November in London and you never know, may bring the trophy home to Oswestry.” They would also like to thank all of their staff, friends, families, suppliers and of course their wonderful customers for their continued support - proving that to buy from a local independent specialist is the best way to purchase your kitchen or bathroom.
From left to right – Michael Edwards and Ben Jones – Joint Owners of Oswestry Kitchens & Bathrooms
FAMILY OWNED AND RUN, A TRUE LOCAL INDEPENDENT SPECIALIST Visit our newly fitted Kitchen & Bathroom Studio in Oswestry, offering experienced designers and installers with vast product knowledge to enable you to create a beautiful quality space in your home.
KBB Focus Awards Finalist 2023 Best Kitchen Retailer Unit 9, Maesbury Road Industrial Estate, Oswestry SY10 8HA Telephone: 01691 658500 Email: enquiries@okb-ltd.co.uk FB:www.facebook.com/OKBLtdOswestry www.okb-ltd.co.uk
Daniel & Melissa, Ellesmere Oswestry life
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Art
Water’s Edge
Woven tapestries celebrate the landscape of Wales This winter sees the return to Oriel Môn in Llangefni, Anglesey of a highly talented tapestry weaver in a one-woman exhibition displaying over 40 inspirational works. After a highly successful exhibition “Weaving the Coast” in 2019, Ros Hornbuckle, a self-taught tapestry weaver living in Oswestry, returns with a new collection of hand-woven art. Ros has been weaving rugs and tapestries for over 40 years. Her work is now concentrated on her emotional connection with landscape and with tales that arouse strong feelings in her. Ros explores these using colour, line, and texture. She explains, “My tapestries use hand-spun wool, with colours that
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I mix like paint before or during spinning.” The vibrant colours and textures produce an immediate impact on the viewer. Ros further explains, “I experience weaving as a form of meditation, as each work can take 2-3 months.” ‘Water’s Edge’, an exhibition of woven tapestries, is about rocks, water, and sky. It explores the textures, colours and light found at the edge of water - mountains, sunsets, water splashing over rocks and into pools, and reflections. Ros states, “The water’s edge is the area that most fascinates me as a weaver and challenges me to capture the ever-
changing movement of water and light, and colours altered by time of day and weather, but also the permanence of rock and mountain”. The slow process of tapestry weaving, together with dyeing and spinning the wool, means that each image is invested with love for the landscape of Wales. The exhibition runs from 17 October 2023 to 25 February 2024. Oriel Môn is open and welcomes all visitors Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-5pm. Admission is free. Ros’s website www.roshornbuckle.wordpress.com has information on techniques and a gallery of her work.
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Property Spotlight
Country House Llanfyllin With no onward chain! Town and Country Oswestry offer this fantastic period home set in grounds extending to 11 acres on the outskirts of the market town of Llanfyllin. The property offers extensive period, character accommodation and is in need of a full program of updating and renovation. There are large reception rooms along with the potential for employee/owner accommodation if the property was adapted for business use. An amazing opportunity to create a fabulous family home or for a wedding venue in a truly delightful, peaceful tucked away location with far reaching views. Asking Price £850,000. For viewings call Town & Country on 01691 679631 or email sales@townandcountryoswestry.com
Spacious Town House Milars Field, Morda Enjoying an edge of village location within this modern development, a spacious three storey four-bedroom end terraced family house which briefly comprises: entrance hall, cloakroom/wc and kitchen/dining room. First floor landing, lounge with balcony and bedroom ensuite. Second floor landing, three further bedrooms and family bathroom, double glazing, gas fired central heating, double width driveway, garage and enclosed rear garden. Asking Price £259,995. For viewings call 01691 670320 or email oswestry@hallsgb.com
Uninterrupted Views Greystones, Hollies Lane, Oswestry Greystones is a charming period home which has been extended to provide unique and versatile accommodation perfect for today’s modern lifestyle. Tucked away and offering excellent privacy in gardens of over half an acre and having the most fabulous uninterrupted views over adjoining countryside and hills beyond. Ideal for a growing family, those who love to entertain, work from home or have a dependent relative, the versatile accommodation must be viewed to be truly appreciated and benefits from many period features. Reception hall, cloakroom, impressive open plan living/dining/family room, large lounge, bespoke kitchen/dining room, principal bedroom with en-suite, 4 further double bedrooms, shower room and family bathroom. Delightful well stocked and established gardens, parking for numerous vehicles, garaging and workshop along with a detached dwelling which would be perfect for home office/studio. OIRO £680,000. For viewings call 01691 674567 or email sales.oswestry@monks.co.uk
Four Bedroom Detached House Hafod Close, Oswestry Located in a popular residential area of town, 29 Hafod Close is a wellpresented detached family home with three reception rooms and four bedrooms. The accommodation comprises; entrance hall with WC, living room with gas fire and sliding patio doors to the conservatory (6 years old) with French doors to the rear garden, dining room, kitchen with fitted units including a 4-ring gas hob and double oven. There is further space and plumbing for an appliance, utility room with sink and plumbing for appliance, Worcester boiler, and side access door. On the first floor there are four bedrooms, with the main bedroom benefitting from an en-suite shower room, and a family bathroom. Asking Price: £395,000. For viewings call Morris Marshall & Poole on 01691 679595 or email oswestry@morrismarshall.co.uk Oswestry life
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morrismarshall.co.uk morrismarshall.co.uk morrismarshall.co.uk
Meet the Meet the Team Team
Roger Lunt FRICS FNAEA
Partner & Chartered Surveyor
Roger Lunt Lunt FRICS FRICS FNAEA FNAEA Roger
Partner & Chartered Surveyor Partner & Chartered Surveyor
Barbara Jones MNAEA
Helen Roberts
Bryan Jarman MRICS
Barbara Jones Jones MNAEA MNAEA Barbara
Helen Helen Roberts Roberts
Bryan Bryan Jarman Jarman MRICS MRICS
Matthew Hudson MARLA
Rachael Lloyd
Matthew Matthew Hudson Hudson MARLA MARLA
Rachael Rachael Lloyd Lloyd
Sales Advisor Sales Advisor Sales Advisor
Valuer
Sales Advisor
Valuer Valuer
Sales Advisor Sales Advisor
Lettings Manager Lettings Manager Lettings Manager
Lettings Advisor Lettings Advisor Lettings Advisor
Estate & Letting Agents | Chartered Surveyors | Agricultural | Commercial Agents Estate Estate & & Letting Letting Agents Agents || Chartered Chartered Surveyors Surveyors || Agricultural Agricultural || Commercial Commercial Agents Agents
With With you you every every step step of of the the way way Video Tours Video Tours Tours Video
Large Office Network Large Large Office Office Network Network
Qualified Staff Qualified Staff Staff Qualified
Top 3 Property portals Top 3 3 Property Property Top portals portals
£ £
No Sale No Fee No Sale Sale No No Fee Fee No
99.6%
For friendly professional advice or to arrange a free, no-obligation For advice to a Market Appraisal contact the team For friendly friendly professional professional advice or or to arrange arrange a free, free, no-obligation no-obligation Market Appraisal contact the team Market Appraisal contact the team 16 Leg Street, 01691 679595 16 Leg Street, Street, 01691 679595 679595 Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 2NN oswestry@morrismarshall.co.uk 16 Leg 01691 Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 2NN oswestry@morrismarshall.co.uk Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 2NN oswestry@morrismarshall.co.uk
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99.6% 99.6%
Customer Satisfaction Customer Rating Customer Satisfaction Satisfaction Rating Rating
Oswestry thank you
As we settle into our new home we thank you for your continued support following the recent fire. If you are looking to sell or rent contact us for your FREE no obligation valuation.
Monks Oswestry 16 Church Street, Oswestry, SY11 2SP
Monks Shrewsbury 10a Shoplatch, Shrewsbury, SY1 1HL
Monks Wem 13a High Street, Wem, SY4 5AA
01691 674 567
01743 361 422
01939 234 368
Make HOME Happen. With Monks.
You can call us anytime between 8am - 8pm Mon - Fri 9am - 4pm Sat 11am - 2pm Sun
monks.co.uk Oswestry life
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Your property Our priority With in-depth local knowledge and a keen eye for detail, our valuers offer professional insights and advice that can help you unlock the full market potential of your residential property. For a free, no obligation market appraisal or for any help and advice, please contact us today...
Get in touch... 01691 670 320
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oswestry@hallsgb.com
Maes Sarn Wen, Four Crosses Exceptional recently constructed detached family home built by local reputable developers Shingler Homes that has been finished to a very high standard with open far reaching views to the front and arguably the best plot on the development. The property offers bright, spacious accommodation with four double bedrooms, en suite and utility, a stunning kitchen/ dining/ family room, lounge, triple block paved driveway and garage and a lovely landscaped garden to the rear.
Offers in Region of £345,000
Yew Tree Close, Whittington Spacious, four bedroom detached family home set in a cul de sac position in the highly regarded village of Whittington. The property offers hallway, lounge/ dining room, kitchen, cloakroom, four bedrooms and a family bathroom. To the outside there is a lovely pattern imprinted driveway providing lots of parking along with a single garage and enclosed rear gardens. Whittington has lots of amenities including a school, shop and the famous Whittington Castle.
Offers in Region of £269,950
Powis Close, Pant Unique and charming three bedroom period cottage steeped in history located in the centre of Pant with amenities close by. This property once formed part of the Powis Arms public house and has a real cosy and welcoming feeling. Accommodation comprises a living room, dining room, kitchen, cloakroom, utility, landing, three good double bedrooms and a family bathroom. Externally there are pretty, well maintained gardens for families who enjoy sitting outside along with a superb garage/workshop which is a great space for vehicles or for conversion to a superb living space.
Offers in Region of £325,000
4 Willow St, Oswestry, SY11 1AA Phone 01691 679 631 Email sales@townandcountryoswestry.com www.townandcountryestateagents.co.uk Oswestry life
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£165,000
Viewings can be arranged by calling 01938 580768 People are welcome to turn up to look around without appointments
website: www.m-d.co.uk email: info@m-d.co.uk Address: Tavern Park, Forden, Near Welshpool, SY21 8NN
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Cabin Lane, Oswestry, SY11 2PF
4
3
2
Roger Parry and Partners are pleased to bring to the sales market this spacious detached family home set on a sizeable plot offering ample parking, front and rear gardens and scope for improvement. This property is being offered with no onward chain, and is ideally situated on the outskirts of Oswestry Town Centre. EPC Rating: D Tenure: Freehold Council Tax Banding: E
2
2
1
2
2
1
Porth-y-cwm, LL20 7LE
Walford Road, Oswestry, SY11 2LE
Viewing is highly recommended on this much improved and deceptively spacious mid terrace house with a useful loft space (currently used as a third bedroom). The property has a number of energy saving features including UPVC double glazing and recently installed solar panels. EPC: TBC Tenure: Freehold Council Tax Band: C
Beautifully presented and well maintained detached bungalow. Offering an ideal location set slightly elevated benefitting from views over Oswestry town and beyond, a short walk from the centre to all local amenities and benefitting from no onward chain. EPC: D Tenure: Freehold Council Tax Band:B
Cross Street, Oswestry, SY11 2NF Development opportunity in the centre of Oswestry town. Being offered for sale is a brick built building formerly used as a antique shop and family butchers. Workshop/office space with previous planning permission to develop the premise to have two stories offering residential accommodation above. Centrally located close to local amenities yet situated in a communal residential courtyard area. EPC: TBC Tenure: Freehold Council Tax Band: N/A
READY TO PUT DOWN NEW ROOTS? LET US GET YOU MOVED THIS AUTUMN
RURAL 01743 791336
SHREWSBURY 01743 343343
WELSHPOOL 01938 554499
OSWESTRY 01691 655334
www.rogerparry.net
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SAVE
on your gas and electric now by servicing your existing boiler and heating system plus a range of finance options on Worcester Bosch boilers
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TOP-QUALITY SERVICES AT AFFORDABLE PRICES
If you are in need of glaziers who offer double glazing repair services and uPVC window installations, you have come to the right place. Contact us today if you need French doors, conservatory roofs or roofline services.
DOORS • WINDOWS • CONSERVATORIES • WARM ROOFS • FASCIAS & GUTTERING Telephone: 01691 650 567 www.malcolm-lewis.co.uk
J&I Carpets You are in safe hands with J & I Carpets when it comes to your flooring requirements. • We have 3 NICF Master Fitters, which is the highest industry standard a fitter can achieve. Installers with this status will have successfully completed an advanced level of assessment by NICF who are a registered body. • We have a wide variety of flooring products such as Carpets, Vinyl, Luxury Vinyl Tiles, Laminate, Oak Engineered, Solid oak flooring, and safety flooring. • Over 32 Rolls of Carpet in store, and 6 Vinyl Rolls plus many ranges to choose from to order in.
Tel: 01691 656843 E: hello@jandicarpets.co.uk w: www.jandicarpets.co.uk Victoria Road, Oswestry. Shropshire SY11 2HR Opening times: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm & Saturday 9am to 4pm
1982-2023
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OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN OUTDOOR LIVING OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN OUTDOOR LIVING OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN OUTDOOR LIVING
Al-fresco Living Al-fresco Living Al-fresco Living Showroom Showroom Showroom
0% 0% 0%
Finance available Finance available Finance available
Visit our extensive showroom and find your perfect Visit ourorextensive showroom and find your perfect awning garden room - Everyone welcome! Visit our extensive showroom and find your perfect awning or garden room - Everyone welcome! awning or garden room - Everyone welcome!
www.rocheawnings.com www.rocheawnings.com www.rocheawnings.com Unit 4 - 5 Artillery Business Park, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 4AD Unit 4 - 5 Artillery Business Park, Oswestry, Unit 4 - 5 Artillery Business Park, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 4AD Shropshire, SY11 4AD 68
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Call 01691 672 465 Call 01691 672 465 Call 01691 672 465
Interiors by Stephanie Dhillon
Fireside
Nothing says cosy like being next to a roaring fire while there’s a storm outside. November never fails to deliver that dreary cold and wet promise of a British winter. Whether it be a log burner, gas or bio ethanol, the fireplace can do wonders for the style of your room. More often than not it is the focal point of the room, and if there’s some kind of mantle over it, or a deep surround, then this becomes a great surface for seasonal decorating. If you have a log burner or lack a shelf like surface above to decorate, then dressing the hearth side can give similar results. A variety of different shaped log baskets, stylish fireside tools, candles and a decorative fire screen all add to an inviting cosy scene, whether the fire is lit or not. Here are some warming fireside ideas to inspire getting those fires lit and putting your feet up.
▲ New Brass Fire Screen £70 from Cox & Cox
www.coxandcox.co.uk
▼ G Plan Brighton Fabric Footstool Burgundy,
£429.99 from ScS www.scs.co.uk
Fireside Matches Glass Bottle £10.95 from The Northern Line www.northernline.co.uk
Notes of November Scented Candle £40 from Loriest & Co www.loriest.com
Heritage Log Gloves £33.95 from Annabel James www.annabeljames.co.uk Direct Stoves Woodford Didsbury Multifuel £999 from Direct Stoves www.directstoves.com
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CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Gold Candleholders set of 2 £29.95 from Mayfair www.wayfair.co.uk Autumn Fireplace Styling by Lights4fun www.lights4fun.co.uk Rattan Storage Basket Hessian Lined £45 from Marquis & Dawe www.marquisanddawe.co.uk Arc Hanging Fireside Tool set - Matt Black £269 from Lime Lace www.limelace.co.uk Bespoke Lyon Armchair in Wool Check Teal £999 from The Footstool Workshop www.thefootstoolworkshop.co.uk
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TOp-qUAlITy SERVICES AT AFFORDAblE pRICES
DOORS • WINDOWS • CONSERVATORIES • WARM ROOFS • FASCIAS & GUTTERING If you are in need of glaziers who offer double glazing repair services and uPVC window installations, you have come to the right place. Contact us today if you need French doors, conservatory roofs or roofline services.
Telephone: 01691 650 567 www.malcolm-lewis.co.uk
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Lawns do wonders for our wellbeing. That’s why we’ve devised three programmes of year-round treatments to keep your grass a cut above. From controlling weeds to bringing out the green, we’ll help you to look after the lawn that looks after you.
FIRST SEASONAL TREATMENT HALF PRICE When you sign up between August & December 2023*
Discover more at
greenthumb.co.uk
Scan here
Oswestry - 01691 655111 oswestry@greenthumb.co.uk * T&C’s apply. New customers only. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Half price treatment applies to first seasonal treatment only once you have signed up to GreenThumb Oswestry between August 1st 2023 and December 31st 2023.
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Gardening
November in the garden by Graham Mitchell
November, the end of autumn and the start of winter. We can expect some bright days, but also some hard frosts, so need to choose our gardening times carefully. Planting up some bright, cheery containers, and maybe sorting some flowering bulbs for Christmas can keep us gardeners entertained. There will also still be some winter flowers, along with berries and seed heads to add colour in the garden. As plants begin to die down, spend some time clearing out all the debris in the borders. The mild, damp autumn we’ve been having is ideal for the spread of fungal diseases, so try to keep some room around individual plants to allow airflow. It is also a breeding ground for slugs and snails, as are old flowerpots and containers. Raking the soil will expose their eggs, which will quickly be cleared by the wild birds and other wild creatures. Greenhouses and cold frames are also a reservoir of pests. If you haven’t already, give the greenhouse a good wash and disinfect, including staging and pots. Any plants overwintering in there should be given plenty of space, and
A good crop of holly ready for Christmas
a bit of fresh air when conditions are favourable. Late November is a good time to prune deciduous trees including apples and pears and fruit bushes. The sap will have migrated down, and plants will have become dormant. Don’t prune plums and other stone fruit trees now, as you risk disease. Also don’t be tempted to cut back spring-blooming ornamental plants. If you prune a forsythia in winter, you’ll lose the flower buds. Do that after the flowers finish next year. Many books have been written on expert pruning, but I try and keep it simple. Using good sharp secateurs and loppers I take out anything that is dead, diseased, or damaged. I then look for branches that are rubbing or that are growing towards the centre of the canopy. Finally, I check the overall shape. You are aiming for a nice open goblet to allow sun and air into the whole tree and keep it healthy. Always think twice about making any cut though. It is easy to prune, but impossible to put it back!
ALL TYPES OF GROUNDWORK AND LANDSCAPING FROM HOME IMPROVEMENTS TO MAJOR SITES INCLUDING SITE MUCK AWAYS Transformative consultative competitive TARMAC | FENCING | PATIOS | FOOTINGS | CONCRETING | ARTIFICIAL GRASS | DRAINAGE Highly skilled local tradesman in Oswestry and surrounding area, With 15 years’ experience in heavy plant operation and muck aways. The Muckshifter believes in good old-fashioned values honesty, attention to detail, professionalism and delivering our client expectations. Best company around for “Muck Aways”! Recently used The Muck Shifter to dig out footings, in a very tricky, and challenging, area of our property! All staff worked extremely hard, the work was completed to a very high standard, and our property was left tidy, and in good order! Would highly recommend Will and his team! Mrs Davies
Mobile: 07583 732234 E: themuckshifter@outlook.com
www.themuckshifter.com
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We are specialists in loft ladders and hatches for easy and safe access to your loft. We also provide boarding, lighting and insulation solutions. Call us now to find out how we can help you turn your lost space into a really useful loft space.
Call Jonathan to book a FREE survey & quote
01743 626144
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Focus on…
Autumn
through the lens of Graham Mitchell With Winter nearly here, I thought it would be good to focus on a few favourite shots of my favourite places during Autumn. It certainly is a great season to take photographs!
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SHOULD YOU GET AN ANNUITY?
RETIREMENT PLANNING MADE EASY Expert advice to enjoy the future you deserve.
CRAIG ROBERTS Oswestry-based independent financial adviser
CALL 01691 886554
What is an annuity? An annuity converts your savings into an annual pension, giving you a guaranteed income for life or for a specified period.
Belgrave Wincham Limited is an appointed representative of ValidPath Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under FRN 197107. Belgrave Wicham Ltd registered in England and Wales number 12167416.
What are the benefits? The biggest benefit of this is the stability that it provides. No matter how volatile the economy gets, you’ll know that you have a steady and reliable stream of income for your entire retirement.
FIND US AT: 24 West View CHIRK Wrexham LL14 5HL
What are the considerations? There are numerous providers and numerous types of annuities, each offering something different. For example, some can rise with inflation, some offer protection for your spouse and some can provide a guaranteed payout should something unexpected happen in the first few years. Remember that you can choose to spread your pension pot between an annuity and leave a portion of your money invested to drawdown from too. Once you’re out of the ‘cooling-off’ period for an annuity though, there is no going back.
COMPLETE | PRINTING | SERVICE
01691 774778 OPEN 10am-2pm | Monday to Friday 76
Ten years ago, it was commonplace for most retirees to rely on annuities as a part of their retirement strategy. Since the pensions freedom legislation came into force in 2015, however, this changed with less and less people opting to go down this route. That is, until now. Thanks to soaring interest rates, annuities have once again become a popular option. At Belgrave Wincham we’re seeing a significant increase in enquiries about them - both from those approaching retirement and those who have already retired – and with good reason. Here, our director and independent financial adviser, Craig Roberts, discusses if an annuity could benefit you…
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Compliment Slips | Appointment Cards Tickets | Posters | Leaflets | Booklets Price Lists | Postcards | Invitations NCR Books/Pads | Raffle Tickets Business Cards | Scan & Email Gift Vouchers | Photocopying Letterheads | PVC Banners
Is it right for me? Given the complexities of annuities and their long-term implications, it’s important to talk to an independent financial adviser before making a decision. Working with you, they can evaluate your financial situation, explain the options on offer and assist in developing a retirement income strategy to suit you. If you’d like to find out more, call our retirement experts at Belgrave Wincham on 01691 886554.
Q&A
with GHP Legal’s Deon Hayward
www.ghplegal.com
Getting a marriage annulled can apply in cases other than non-consummation! Q: My wife and I married last year after she became pregnant, and she later gave birth to what I believed was our baby. However, I later discovered my wife had had an affair. She admitted the baby may not be mine and a paternity test has subsequently proved I am not the father. I am devastated, and don’t want anything further to do with her or the baby. I want this marriage to be over as soon as possible and do not want to wait a year. What can I do? A: You will not have to wait a year to initiate divorce proceedings, you can get your marriage annulled right away. Most people think annulment only applies when a marriage has not been consummated by having sex after the marriage. However, in the UK it can be annulled if it can be shown the marriage was never legally valid and therefore ‘void’, or it was ‘defective’ and therefore ‘voidable’. A marriage can be ‘void’ if the spouses are: closely related, one spouse was under 16 at the time of the marriage, or one spouse was already married to someone else at the time of the marriage. Reasons for marriage to be considered ‘defective’ and ‘voidable’ would be because: the marriage was never consummated (currently only applicable to opposite sex spouses), one party did not properly consent to the marriage because they were for example drunk or coerced, one spouse had an undisclosed sexually transmitted disease at the time of the marriage, or, as in your case, if the wife was pregnant with someone else’s child when the marriage took place. Your marriage will therefore be considered defective, so you can apply to a divorce court immediately to have it annulled. A divorce solicitor will be able to set this process in motion for you as well as providing advice in respect of other matters such as concerning financial settlement.
Working towards a kinder future
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Litigation & Dispute Resolution OSWESTRY LLANGOLLEN Mental Health 01691 659194 01978 860313 Prison Law WREXHAM Professional Negligence 01978 291456 Probate, Wills, Tax & Trust COVID-19 Residential Property Our expert lawyers continue to provide support Spinal Injuries guidance and advice on all legal matters
NO-WIN, NO-FEE OPTIONS : WELSH SPEAKERS CONTRACTED WITH THE LEGAL AID AGENCY
Authorised & Regulated by the SRA No. 51566
This question has been answered by Deon Hayward, a Solicitor with GHP Legal. If you would like to speak to someone about this or any other legal matter, please visit our website www.ghplegal. com and use the contact us form, or call us on: Wrexham 01978 291456, Llangollen 01978 860313, Oswestry 01691 659194
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Classifieds
Where help is on hand locally
O
AERIALS
stry
ACCOUNTANTS
Find us in Oswestry Indoor Market
01691 676 262
FREE QUOTES
SENSIBLE PRICES
BUILDING & PLUMBING
a
PARK HALL
Call Brian for a free quote with no obligation
01691 690680 07944 990 197
Buy 4
Vertical blinds/ Roller blinds Fitted from
£199
AERIAL SATELLITE SOLUTIONS Installation & Maintenance of Digital Aerials, Satellite Dishes & Digital Solutions
e sw
BLINDS
■ ALL ASPECTS OF PLUMBING, BATHROOMS, RADIATORS AND GENERAL PLUMBING MAINTENANCE ■ GENERAL BUILDING MAINTENANCE ■ SLABBING AND FENCING
TEL: 07983 927426
OSWESTRY BASED FREE QUOTES FULLY INSURED
DOG GROOMING
DOG GROOMING
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FLORENCE & OSWALD grooming spa
M O B I L E
D O G
G R O O M I N G
MOBILE DOG GRO OMING
Call: 07762 278533 jayne@daintypaws.info www.daintypaws.info
Call: 07762 278533
ELECTRICIANS
DOMESTIC COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL All electrical work covered (at no extra cost) by the ECA Guarantee of Work Scheme for up to six years and a limit of £50,000 Electrical certification in line with the current 18th edition wiring regulations BS7671
FINDING • GENERAL ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS • FAULT INSPECTION AND ELECTRICAL • NEST PRO INSTALLER: SMART THERMOSTATS, • TESTING, VIDEO DOORBELLS, SMOKE / CO ALARMS CERTIFICATION AND CCTV INSTALLATION CONDITION • ELECTRICAL • HAVE A RENTAL PROPERTY?: REPORTS (EICRS - ALSO KNOWN AS LANDLORD SAFETY CERTIFICATES)
Tel: 07837 839698 78
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WE CAN TAKE CARE OF THE NEW ELECTRICAL SAFETY REGULATIONS
e: matt@mattowenelectricalservices.co.uk @mattowenelectricalservices
HOLISTIC PET GROOMING Providing a natural, relaxing & therapeutic experience. Based in Oswestry, SY11 1RB florenceandoswald.co.uk
07931 426995
BOOK A CONSULTATION
Classifieds
Where help is on hand locally
ELECTRICIANS
ELECTRICIANS
• Periodic testing & inspection • Fuse board upgrades • Smoke alarms • Outside security lighting • Extensions & conversions • Kitchens & bathroom refurbishments • Free Quotations • Solar PV Installations • Battery Storage Systems • Electric Vehicle Charging Points
YOUR LOCAL ELECTRICIANS
Arridge Garage Doors
Since Unit 6, Maes y Clawdd Industrial Estate, Maesbury Road, Oswestry, SY10 8NN 1989 Office: 01691 681051 Steve: 07813 815333 Dan: 07976 526189
sales@pureelectrics.com www.pureelectrics.com GARAGE DOORS
ARRIDGE GARAGE DOORS TOP BRANDS • BIG DISCOUNTS • NATIONWIDE • Top Brands EST to1989 • Discounted Supply trade and retail • Quality installation service available
REVIEWS 4.82 Rating
sales@arridgegaragedoors.co.uk
arridgegaragedoors.co.uk • 01691 670 394
Suppliers of: Hormann, Garador, Carteck, Fort, Novoferm, SWS, Wisniowski, Cedar Door, Aluroll, Gliderol, Alutech and Ryterna
P and S Electrical Contractors Ltd DOMESTIC - COMMERCIAL • Electric Vehicle Charging Points Installed • Rewires/Extensions • Periodic Testing and Inspection • General Electrical Work • Fuse Board Upgrades • Landlord Safety Checks • Free Estimates
ALL WORK IS CERTIFICATED & FULLY TESTED
CONTACT STUART
07710 664 254
pandselectrical27@gmail.com
01691 670394 www.arridgegaragedoors.co.uk FLORIST
The Flower Gallery
Wedding flower specialists. Beautiful funeral tributes and wonderful designs for all occasions
FLOORING
FOOT CARE
Toenail trimming Callus Cracked Domestic and Commercial • All Preparation Work Domestic and Commercial Karndean Design Flooring • LVT heels Registered Foot All Vinyls • SafetyAllFlooring • Coved and Capped • Carpets Preparation Work • Karndean Design All Types of Wood Flooring and Restoration Work Corns/ Domestic and Commercial • All Preparation Work Health Practioner • LVTand • AllWall VinylsTiles • Safety Flooring FlooringFloor Ceramic Karndean Design Flooring • LVT verrucas All Vinyls • Safety Flooring • Coved and Capped • Carpets CovedStreet, and Capped • Carpets • All Types of Showroon: 51 Castle Oswestry. Shropshire SY11 1JZ All Types of Wood Flooring and Restoration Work TREATMENTS IN A MODERN CLINIC Diabetic Telephone: 01691 657505 • Mobile: 07870 Ceramic 890049Floor and Wall Tiles Wood Flooring•and Restoration Work SITUATED IN LLANYBLODWEL, foot care E: wendyhayward@hotmail.com garryhayward@hotmail.com Showroon: 51 Castle Street, Oswestry. Shropshire SY11 1JZ Telephone: 01691 657505 • Mobile: 07870 890049SOUTH WEST OF OSWESTRY 6 MILES E: wendyhayward@hotmail.com • garryhayward@hotmail.com www.haywardfl ooring.co.uk Ingrowing 51 Castle Street, Oswestry. Shropshire SY11 1JZ toenails www.haywardflooring.co.uk For an appointment, please Tel: 01691 657505 • Mobile: 07870 890049 Fungal nail contact Lisa on 07891087394 E: wendyhayward@hotmail.com • garryhayward@icloud.com E: tanatfootcare@hotmail.com www.haywardflooring.co.uk Athlete’s foot
TANAT FOOT CARE
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Park Avenue Stores, Park Avenue, Oswestry SY11 1BB
Telephone: 01691 671 977 Email: wendle76@yahoo.co.uk @theflowergalleryoswestry LOCAL DELIVERY SERVICE
SHAUN’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS FENSA REGISTERED AND INSURED
Misted up window units? Fascia’s, soffits and guttering need upgrading? New doors, windows and conservatories fitted. All home improvements considered. No job too small.
Tel: 01691 773875 Mobile: 07792 341877
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Classifieds
Where help is on hand locally
martial arts
plumbing & heating
Improve your:
flexIbIlIty | confIdence co-ordInatIon physIque fItness | self control health
Whether your goal is self defence, physical conditioning or you just want to have fun and meet new friends, our quality professional Tae Kwon Do instruction could well provide you with just the results you are looking for.
plumbing & maintenance
Hm plUmBiNG & mAiNTeNANCe SERVICES LTD
email: hmplumbmaintain@gmail.com www.facebook.com/hmplumbmaintain
new starters get theIr fIrst lesson free!
Call: 07824364018 www.tagb-taekwondo.co.uk
• Heating, radiators etc • gutters installation & repair • Kitchen/Bathroom installation & repair • Fencing & garden Maintenance • upvc Fascia, soFFits and cladding • gutter leaf/moss protection systems • Drainage installation & repair For a first class service by fully insured City & Guilds qualified tradesman:
Tel: 07932 659552 CompeTiTive priCes
plumbing & heating
•New builds specialists •Boiler upgrades •Boiler breakdown and servicing •Renewable energy •Bathrooms
10 YEaR BOilER GuaRaNtEE
Your local plumbing and heating experts
Victoria Garage, Victoria Road, Oswestry, SY11 2HR Office: 01691 650031 Email: info@dpowellplumbing.co.uk plumbing & heating
All Plumbing, Heating and Gas Work inc: Installation • Repair • Servicing Maintenance •Landlords certificate Contact Sam for a free, no obligation quote M: 07824 669282 E:Cowdellheating@gmail.com TrusTworThy, reliable compeTiTively priced Fully qualiFied, experienced and Gas saFe reGisTered 80
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Classifieds
Where help is on hand locally
PROPERTY SERVICES
ROOFING
Extensions | Brickwork | Patios Driveways | Fencing | Groundworks Drainage | Steel Frame Buildings General Repairs
New slate/tiled roofs All flat roofing Gutters, fascias & soffits Chimney repairs/pointing Dry verge fitting
For free advice or quote call Harvey
@HACBuilding
07966 784 840
TEL: 01691 658372
ROOFING
WITH EXPERIENCE WE WE HAVE HAVE THE THE WITH OVER OVER 30 30 YEARS’ YEARS’ EXPERIENCE SOLUTION TOTO YOUR FLAT ROOF PROBLEMS SOLUTION YOUR ROOF PROBLEMS • Flat roofing (EPDM options available) • Liquid roofing system PREMIUM • Felt roofing EPDM PRODUCTS • Pitched roofing • New roofs • Insurance work • County Council approved • Covering Oswestry, Welshpool and Shrewsbury FULL GUARANTEE ON ALL PRODUCTS • OVER 30 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE
T: 01691 828292 • M: 07970 438816 E: sales@shropshireroofing.com W: shropshireroofing.com
TILING
Porcelain, ceramic, marble, travertine. Kitchens, bathrooms, conservatory, shops no job too big.
Need Training?
TREE SERVICES
WINDOW CLEANING
Facebook Rob the Tiler Oswestry
All aspects of Arboricultural work undertaken • Council approved contractor • Over 30 years experience • Fully insured • All staff NPTC qualified
Contact Oswestry 01691 680018 M: 07989477415
Tel:01691 650900 Mobile:07968 077725
TREE SURGERY • STUMP GRINDING • VEGETATION MANAGEMENT
t: 07496 515324 / 01691 770247 e: evoarbtech@gmail.com facebook.com/evoarbtech
professional tree care
Instant response • Professional service Safety minded workforce Long or short term hire • Free quotations Comprehensive public liability insurance Very competitive rates
TRAINING
Please call Rob on 07896602847
Shropshire Tree Services Ltd
SCAFFOLDING
TREE SURGERY
Oswestry based. Happy to travel. 20+ years experience.
PROFESSIONAL FLOOR AND WALL TILING
ROOFING
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W I N D OW CLEANING Simple, no hassle regular & one-off window cleaning quotes.
For an instant online quote go online www.saxonclean.co.uk/quote-me
Counterbalance - Reach VNA Pivot Steer - Pedestrian Multidirectional - Side-Loaders & Telescopic Lift Trucks Gantry & Lorry (Hiab) Cranes MEWPs (Scissor Lift & Cherry Pickers) Harness use - Abrasive Wheel Site Safety - Manual Handling & Many Other Courses Competitive Rates Based on North Wales Border with Instructors Nationally Call Us For Information, Advice, or a Quote James - 07970575588 office@warwicktraining.co.uk www.warwicktraining.co.uk
Call/Text/Whatsapp 07791674431 or Email hello@saxonclean.co.uk
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PUZZLE PAGE
WORDWHEEL Using only the letters in the Wordwheel, you have ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must be of three letters or more, all must contain the central letter and letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one word that uses all of the letters in the wheel.
TARGET
Excellent: 40 or more words Good: 37 words Fair: 32 words
R
E E
R M
I D
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD 1. 2. 3. 5. 6.
wordwheel
Across: 1 Trilby, 4 Sporadic, 9 Reveal, 10 Barbecue, 12 Withdrew, 13 Tirade, 15 Nina, 16 Monsoon, 20 Brother, 21 Alto, 25 Octave, 26 Needless, 28 Material, 29 Giving, 30 Decrease, 31 Tennis. Down: 1 Throwing, 2 Inviting, 3 Brandt, 5 Plan, 6 Rabbit on, 7 Dachas, 8 Clever, 11 Reports, 14 Ushered, 17 Traverse, 18 Algerian, 19 Corsages, 22 Formed, 23 Static, 24 Advice, 27 Pass.
The Day Centre Club Oswestry At Morda Social Club, Oswestry
crossword
Casting of a line, in detail (8) Good, now six can go short (8) Make time for a statesman (6) Plot point lauded as novel initially (4) Religious leader put on weight, having waffle (6,2) 7. Backward cur owns property in Russia (6) 8. Cruel outsiders always smart (6) 11. Stories about fortified wines (7) 14. Uppity leader female leftie escorted (7) 17. Cross bravo’s content, in short (8) 18. An African girl in a guy’s embrace (8) 19. Crikey, wise guys displayed flowers! (8) 22. Pro move heartless first Democrat made (6) 23. Attics in a disorganised state still (6) 24. Lawyer set up – failing counsel (6) 27. Move fathers and mothers end (4)
Long word is EMBROIDER
1. Hear about one-pound hat (6) 4. Irregular sort of disco rap (8) 9. Delight, taking in a show (6) 10. Grill gibe, a line overheard (8) 12. Maybe Barrymore’s companion retreated (8) 13. Angry rant directed at ride (6) 15. A girl turned in and cut back (4) 16. Sun-follower quickly making rain (7) 20. Relative upset about career ending (7) 21. A singer, in general, tolerable (4) 25. Avocet going around, note (6) 26. Unnecessary pointers saving face (8) 28. Stuff a friend pronounced genuine (8) 29. Provision of French wine during a concert (6) 30. Do some ironing, perhaps, or decline (8) 31. Game with nets in place (6)
Registered and approved by Shropshire Social Service and 5* Food Hygiene rated
Day care for older people, providing a relaxed and welcoming environment for people who need support to remain independent. Trained in Alzheimer’s and dementia care
Open Wednesday and Friday from 9.30am-4.30pm. Providing refreshments and a 2 course lunch 1/2 days and limited ‘drop in’ spaces available Please contact Sue Jones for more information 01691 650513 or 07854 511750 82
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PLan FOR YOUR FUTURE Our award-winning team provides independent and tailored financial advice. Let us help you achieve your goals.
CRAIG ROBERTS Oswestry-based independent financial adviser
Craig can offer you expert advice on:
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Independent advice | On the FCa register | Your Local Experts | no Obligation Consultations Belgrave Wincham Limited is an appointed representative of ValidPath Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under FRN 197107. Belgrave Wicham Ltd registered in England and Wales number 12167416.
BUY NOW NOTHING TO PAY FOR 9 MONTHS 10% Deposit Only APR 13.9% representative
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Credit is subject to status and affordability. Terms & Conditions Apply. TG Builders Merchants Ltd is registered in England and Wales, VAT no. 310 435411, FRN: Register no. 825759. TG Builders Merchants Ltd, Wood Lane, Ellesmere, Shropshire, SY12 0HY trading as TG Dream Kitchens & Bathrooms is an appointed representative of TG Builders Merchants Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a credit broker, not the lender. Credit is provided by Novuna Personal Finance, a trading style of Mitsubishi HC Capital UK PLC. Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.