Oswestry Life December 2024 by dts media ltd

to Oswestry Life Welcome

“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…” and here at the magazine, it’s one of our favourite times. There’s so much to do this month so make sure you don’t miss the following dates for your diaries:

6 Dec – Christmas Live

6 Dec – Christmas Bazaar, Orthopaedic Hospital

7 Dec – Christmas Parade

The

Victoria McKenna EDITOR

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 McKenna victoria@oswestrylife.co.uk

Production Designer Aileen Selkirk aileen@oswestrylife.co.uk

Regular contributors Graham Mitchell, Dr Paul Middleton, Rebecca Evans, Stephanie Dhillon, Claire Arnold, Andrew Willson, Michael Hudson Accounts and Distribution info@oswestrylife.co.uk

info@oswestrylife.co.uk

Santa at Cambrian Christmas Treat

Santa will once again make Christmas magic on Cambrian Heritage Railways as he takes time away from his very busy schedule to visit the festivities at Oswestry railway station. ‘Santa Steam Specials’ will depart Oswestry station with Santa on board for a short trip down the line and back on weekends from 30 November and throughout December.

A present for every child from the great man himself will be the perfect seasonal highlight as well as seasonal refreshments, entertainment, face painters and a bouncy castle will reflect the spirit of Christmas at Oswestry station.

Gearing up for the festivities, Cambrian Heritage Railways General Manager, Andy Green said, “This is a magical time of year and everyone at Cambrian Heritage Railways is looking forward to Santa making an appearance very soon.

“We all know how extremely busy Santa is at this time of year, so having him visit us before the big day is going to be an enjoyable experience for new customers and those who continue to make it an annual Christmas celebration.”

Due to the high demand for tickets for this popular event, customers are being asked to book early to avoid disappointment.

To join Santa and his friends at our traditional festivities, see our new website for details and booking arrangements: www.Cambrianrailways.com.

Friends Christmas Bazaar awaits

The League of Friends to The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH) is busy getting into the festive spirit, with preparations underway for their Christmas Bazaar.

This year’s event, taking place on Friday 6 December, from 9am until 3pm in the main entrance of RJAH, embraces the enchanting theme of snowmen, promising a frosty festive celebration, all for a great cause. Visitors will enter a magical winter wonderland featuring themed decor and a variety of local stalls offering unique gifts, handcrafted items, jewellery, and seasonal treats.

Live performances, will include carols by local schoolchildren and a special festive performance by the renowned Ladies Orthopaedic Choir. Adding to the magic, Father Christmas will make an appearance, thanks to the support of the Rotary Club of Oswestry and Cambrian.

Local independent bookshop Booka is supporting the event by encouraging community members to donate in store and help provide RJAH’s paediatric patients with a book this Christmas.

Raffle tickets will also be available, offering the chance to win incredible prizes donated by generous stallholders and local businesses. Entry to the event is free of charge.

Tourism

Volunteers receive The King’s Award

Oswestry Borderland Tourism Ltd, a group of volunteers, have been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service for 2024. This is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is equivalent to an MBE.

Oswestry Borderland Tourism (or Visit Oswestry as it is better known) has been working with volunteers to promote Oswestry and the Borderlands as a great place to visit for over 40 years. Oswestry’s Tourist Information Centre in Oswestry Town market is run by Visit Oswestry. The group also creates the Oswestry Tourism ambassador Scheme, prints over 50,000 free town maps and creates VisitOswestry. co.uk and social media @ OswestryTourism.

The King’s Award for Voluntary Service aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to support their communities. It was created in 2002 to celebrate Her Majesty The late Queen’s Golden Jubilee and, was continued following the accession of His Majesty The King. 2024 marks the second year of The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.

Representatives of Oswestry Borderland Tourism will receive the award crystal and certificate from Anna Turner Lord-Lieutenant of Shropshire. In addition, two volunteers from Oswestry Borderland Tourism will attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace in May or June 2025, along with other recipients of this year’s Award.

Story

Junior Parade now part of the Oswestry Illuminated Tractor Run Cover

To make the Oswestry Illuminated Tractor Run a more inclusive event for the community, the organisers are introducing a Junior Parade before the main event in the Livestock Market, Shrewsbury Road in Oswestry. This is taking place on Saturday 14 December, but entries must be made by 3.30pm.

They are looking for children up to the age of 10, on any illuminated ride-on toy (pedal or battery), to take part in their Junior Parade that will take place undercover in one of the market buildings. Judging will be done by Santa who will present a beautiful toy tractor, donated by the Wynnstay Store in Glovers Meadow, Oswestry to the winner. All entrants will be given a certiﬁcate to take home.

To give every child the opportunity to take part, they will have a few additional illuminated ride-on toys for them to use. Entry is on the day at

the market and is a £5 cash donation to Lingen Davies Cancer Fund. Please complete the entry form supplied at the time of entry.

The Oswestry Illuminated Tractor Run is the main event and leaves the Oswestry Livestock Market at 5pm. They will be mustered by 3.30pm to give the public the opportunity to go around up to 100 illuminated tractors and meet our local farmers. Then travel 38 noisy miles from Oswestry to go through local towns and villages, returning to the Oswestry Livestock Market about 8.15am (ish). Some limited free parking is available at the market. More information on both events visit the Facebook page @OswestryIlluminatedTractorRun.

For more information contact Mike Lade on 07803 038 858, mikelade1975@gmail.com.

Support your local independent businesses

ADVANCED HYNOTHERAPIST

Katie Millard

Smoking cessation. Weight management. Anxiety & Depression. Phobias. Stress. 07912 435221

katie@thehappinessclub.co.uk

Amber’s Cleaning Services

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 Tel: 07955 022129

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

Covent Garden Fruit Market

Quality fresh fruit & veg daily - Locally made bread, cakes, honey and free range eggs plus home made preserves. Open 6 days a week, from 7.30am - 5pm English Walls, Oswestry 01691 659516 coventgarden1964@outlook.com

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

Mrs Mops Cleaning Services

Professional domestic and commercial cleaning company. Competitive rates. Followed by Mrs Hinch on Instagram. Approached by ITV! Contact Melanie 07494 669 479 or mrsmopscleaningservices2020@outlook.com

Nu U Beauty

Delay the signs of ageing. Specialist in CACI non-surgical face lift, Microdermabrasion & Collagen Lift. Over 20yrs beauty experience. Facials are my passion. www.nuubeauty.com Tel : 07506 078265

Obertelli Play Therapy

Delivering therapy to children and young people. Supervision and therapeutic consultation available. Please contact for a free initial enquiry on 07974 506910 or Ginaobertelli@aol.com

Oswestry Transport

Man & Van hire/General haulage

Trailer hire/Removals/Collection & deliveries

Motorcycle collection & deliveries

ADR QUALIFIED - FULLY INSURED 07816 830019 Email Otsj14@aol.co.uk

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

Pippo’s Bakery

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

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

Suzanne’s Café

Offering home made cakes, fresh cooked breakfasts, baps and sandwiches. Lunch time menu also available. Vegetarian and vegan friendly. Takeaway also available. 39 Bailey Street. suzannescafe64@gmail.com

The Body Boutique

Physiotherapy & beauty. Cosmetic acupuncture, acupuncture, electro acupuncture, sports massage, oncology massage and much more. Contact the body boutique for more info on Facebook, instagram or thebodyboutique_byke@outlook.com

Time Invaders

A treasure trove of Comic Annuals Funkopops Sci-ﬁ & more including Retro Arcade machines, all at Oswestry Indoor Market, Bailey Head SY11 1PZ FB & Instagram @timeinvaders23 houseofjumble_@hotmail.co.uk 07946550916

Vicious Pink Tattoo Studio

Fully licensed. Check out work from Ruth, Gary, Karen and Libby on Facebook and Instagram. www.viciouspink.co.uk

Tel: 01691 570427

Suite C, 9A Willow Street, Oswestry. SY11 1AF

focusing on five pillars; Workplace, Marketplace, Community, Environment and Governance.

#Aico InThe Community

Building sustainable futures for our communities

Building sustainable futures

As the European market leader in home life safety, we strive to deliver safer homes through engaging with our communities to educate and promote best practice. Our sustainability programme enables us to do just this. Aico in the Community was developed to provide support to both local and national educational and charitable organisations, focusing on five pillars; Workplace, Marketplace, Community, Environment and Governance

If you would like to know more about Aico in the

, please get in touch with our

If you would like to know more about Aico in the Community, please get in touch with our Community Liaisons: sustainability@aico.co.uk

Aico’s Project SOS: Transforming Oswestry Memorial Hall

Aico, based in Oswestry, re-launched their community initiative ‘Project SOS’ earlier this year. The scheme invites local causes to apply for the opportunity to receive 5 days of volunteering from Aico colleagues.

The Oswestry Memorial Hall (OMH) was the successful winner for 2024, inviting Aico colleagues to help give their Oswald room a makeover. First opened to the public in 1906, the hall has faced a number of challenges over recent years, but is fast-becoming a thriving community hub for groups, organisations, business owners and freelancers. Hosting clubs and events as varied as fencing club, and a weekly artisan country market, it is also home to singing and dance lessons, business meetings, training, and more.

The local community came together to support the renovation, with The Oswestry Lions Club kindly funding the main material costs, and Town Mayor, Mike Isherwood, running an OMH fundraising programme to help new groups access and benefit from the refurbished hall.

During the week of Monday 4 November, a total of 17 colleagues

from Aico were joined by users of the hall to help rejuvenate the space, which was last refurbished in the 1990s. Other users of the hall also showed their support for the project by donating money and equipment. SBC Training apprentices were also involved during the week, where they repanelled the wooden elements of the room.

Rebecca Cumblidge, Senior Accountant at Aico, stated, “I was very excited that Oswestry Memorial Hall was chosen for Project SOS - it’s a building that is available for the whole of Oswestry’s community to use and the team there have been and are working hard to make it an open and inviting space for all. To transform the main hall in one week was quite a task, but it looks fantastic and can be used for years to come. This really became a community project with volunteers, businesses and apprentices getting involved.”

Hall Manager, Paul Newman, said “Oswestry Memorial Hall was gifted to the town in 1906 by Mrs Sarah Parry-Jones. She wanted it to be a memorial to her two sisters who died within a week of each other, in hopes

that the hall would be a place to inspire and enable community spirit. What’s happened here this week is exactly what she would have wanted and will help make sure the hall carries on being a vital community venue for Oswestry in the future.

I’m really grateful to Aico, Oswestry Lions, Mike Isherwood, and all the volunteers who have helped. Local trades and suppliers have helped in many ways, and all will be acknowledged in a special ‘Hall of Fame’ notice we’ll erect in the hall. The Memorial Hall is more than a building, it is a community of people. I hope this will be the beginning of a new and exciting chapter in the hall’s history and that we can welcome more people through the doors.”

A total of 113 hours were collectively dedicated by Aico colleagues through Project SOS, to help transform Oswestry’s Memorial Hall. As the European market leader in home life safety, Aico strive to deliver safer homes through engaging with their local communities. Their Corporate Social Responsibility programme, ‘Aico in the Community’, was developed to support local and national educational and charitable organisations. The transformation of Oswestry Memorial Hall has served as a testament to Aico’s commitment to creating positive change.

Laura Opechowska, Community Liaison for Aico added, “This project was more than just a fresh coat of paint for the Oswestry Memorial Hall. It celebrated our community spirit and shared heritage, bringing together local residents. Project SOS truly highlighted the vital role that community partnerships play in fostering a genuine sense of pride and connection among us all in Oswestry.”

To learn more about Aico in the Community, visit www.aico.co.uk.

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.

SOME OF THE BENEFITS OF RAW FEEDING:

■ Less Sensitivities ■ Great for allergy sufferers

■ Smaller less odorous poop ■ Clean teeth & breath

■ Shiny healthy coat

Unit 10 Radfords Field, Maesbury Rd, Oswestry SY10 8RA 07403737806 www.duffysdiner.co.uk

Professional Dog Groomer in Oswestry 07970710830 Thewooferygrooming@gmail.com www.thewoofery.co.uk

Paws for thought

HELPING YOUR PETS SURVIVE THE FESTIVITIES

Christmas can be stressful for pets. The change in routine, visitors, children, loud music and decorations can all worry them.

Stick to their routine - try to keep food, exercise, bed and toilet break routines the same, as consistency can help pets feel more secure.

Introduce new people carefully - if you have guests coming over, let your dog or cat meet people at their own pace.

Give them somewhere cosy and quiet to retreat to, away from all the excitement, where they won’t be disturbed by anyone. Leave toys there to help them associate the area with positive experiences.

Don’t leave them alone too long. Make clear plans if you are leaving them for the day.

If you’re spending Christmas day with friends or family and your dog is coming with you, take something that smells familiar, like their bed, to help them feel secure. Take some of their favourite toys and chews to help keep them entertained. Duffy’s Diner in Oswestry has a great range of natural treats for the day.

Festive Food

A lot of festive food is highly toxic for pets. Avoid giving your pets access to:

• Chocolate

• Mince pies

• Christmas pudding

• Onion gravy

• Alcohol

• Bones from carcasses - these are a dangerous choking hazard

• Tinsel and plants e.g. poinsettia

Christmas Trees and Decorations

Only allow your pets around the tree when you can keep a close eye on them, because:

• Hanging edible decorations, such as chocolate, are poisonous to dogs and can make them seriously ill.

• Cats and dogs might be tempted to chew or play with hanging tree decorations and cables.

Be prepared!

Keep the number of an emergency vet on hand in case of accidents or if your pet eats something they shouldn’t. If your pet is on medication, stock up before the holidays.

Season’s greetings to you all, from KNOWING NOSES.

Rebecca Evans of Knowing NosesBotanical Self-healing for Animals info@knowingnoses.com

Happy

Present buying doesn’t have to be stressful when you shop local! So spread the joy, and support your town’s traders.These local buys are sure to bring a smile on Christmas morning...

Washbag (waterproof lining) in ‘picnic’ £18, designsinmind.co.uk, 17 Cross Street.

Handmade sterling silver bangle £45, www.purplepixie.co.uk, Tel: 07725 054050

Bear marmalade scones in a bottle £10, www.wisterialanegifts.co.uk, 13 Beatrice Street.

Luxury tin Candles from £7.50, gatcombecandleco.co.uk, Tel: 07977 834762

Christmas Edition Erasable Gel Pens - £5.99 Pk3 (Reﬁlls avail), Meraki Colour, 3 Church Street.

Crest of a Wave, Mixed Material Sculpture by Sara Piper Heap £320, www.willowgalleryoswestry.org

Set of 2 gonks, £6, The Little Gift Emporium, littlegiftemporium@gmail.com

Legami

Feline Superstore, 3c Church Street.

Paddington

Festive Chocolate Bouquet from Cocoa Bouquets (other options available) £30, Facebook @Cocoa Bouquets

Selection of classic Christmas ‘pop-up’ advent calendars from £9.99, Pickles Gift & Coffeeshop, 31 Church Street. Call 07436 579911.

Orange and Ginger Gin £34.95, Henstone Distillery, www.henstonedistillery.com

Orbea Kemen MID SUV 40 £2600. Mule, Salop Road, www.mulecycles.co.uk

Colemere Vineyard white, red & rosé wine £21 and sparkling £39. Tourist Information Centre, Oswestry Market Hall, www.visitoswestry.co.uk

The Niche & Herd Christmas Eve Box £17.50 (pre-order by 16 December). To order email victoria@herdmilk.co.uk

‘Cows Day Off’ £99 (other designs also in stock). EC Hollywell, 27-41 Beatrice Street. Call 01691 653449.

Tree Decorations by Gisela Graham, Trees £7.99, Puddings £4.99. Barkers Gift Shop, 4 Smithﬁeld Street. Call 01691 238297.

Bolt From The Black by local author, Dave Andrews £9.99. Available in local outlets incl Booka, Siop Cwlwm or direct at daveauthor54@gmail.com.

Christmas Metal Vintage Wall Sign from £5.75. Chill Printing Oswestry, www.britishmetalsigns.co.uk.

Children’s Moneybox, £19.95, www.midlandsairambulance.com.

and Around Oswestry

‘In and Around Oswestry Calendar 2025’ £5 from Hope House Shop, Smithﬁeld St and Meraki Colour, Church Street (While stocks last)

Welsh Christmas Eve Trivet £7.99. Siop Cwlwm, 33 Bailey Street, Oswestry, call 01691 680401.

from Oswalds Cars Bookings@oswaldscars.co.uk

Tel: 01691 596 596

in support of the Rotary club’s Tree of Light appeal

Meowy Catmas! from Cat World

Feline superstore offering top quality gifts, homewares, cat toys, and accessories for all cat lovers and their furry friends. 3c Church Street bengalcatworld.co.uk

In support of the Rotary club’s Tree of Light appeal

from John Davies Investment & Mortgage Services LLP

Telephone 01691 680845

Mobile 07968 741728

from Pivotal Plumbing & Heating Telephone 01691 831529 info@pivotalplumbingandheating.co.uk www.pivotalplumbingandheating.co.uk

www.johndaviesinvestments.co.uk 22 Willow Street, Oswestry

from Visiting Angels

E: northshropshire@visiting-angels.co.uk Tel: 01691 888 558 www.visiting-angels.co.uk

In support of the Rotary club’s Tree of Light appeal

Xmas wishes

from the Meadows Osteopath Clinic

Claire Arnold Registered Osteopath www.themeadowsosteopathclinicclairearnoldosteopath.com 07792 367507 in support of the Rotary club’s Tree of Light appeal

from Dainty Paws

Mobile Dog Grooming Call: 07762 278533

www.daintypaws.info

Supporting the Rotary Club Tree of Light Appeal

from Approved Care and Support Affordable private care in your home Supporting the Tree of Light Appeal

Tel: 01691 655999

Email: approved@ approvedcareandsupport.co.uk

from Duffy’s Diner

Supporting the Tree of Light Appeal

Tel: 07403737806

www.duffysdiner.co.uk

Unit 10 Radfords Field, Maesbury Rd, Oswestry SY10 8RA

istmas wishes

from Gatcombe Candle Co. Tel: 07977 834762

Supporting the Rotary club’s Tree of Light appeal

Unit 20, Maes Y Clawdd, Maesbury Road Industrial Estate, Oswestry

from D.R.E. Accountants Oswestry 01691 654353

Supporting the Rotary club’s Tree of Light appeal

www.oswestry.life

mas wishes

from ABP Ellesmere

Apprenticeships available Visit: abpuk.com/careers

Facebook: abpcareers

Tel: 01939 272 000 in support of the Rotary club’s Tree of Light appeal

The Rotary Club of Oswestry and Cambrian Tree of Light Appeal 2024

The Oswestry & Cambrian Rotary Club Tree of Light Appeal once again seeks to raise much needed funds for local voluntary groups this Christmas.

At 4:30pm on Saturday 23 November, everyone was invited to join in the Switch On of the Christmas tree of lights on Festival Square by the Mayor Cllr Mike Isherwood. There was music and plenty of Christmas carols.

This year’s appeal will support Severn Hospice and a range of other smaller local charities. Severn Hospice gives specialist care and support free of charge to families across Shropshire and Mid Wales living with incurable illnesses. While, for our smaller charities a donation can make a big difference.

So, how can you make a donation? Either:-

To make a donation of £5, text ‘TREEOFLIFE’ to 70085. Texts cost £5 plus one standard network rate message, and you’ll be opting into hearing more from us. Or:By completing the sponsor form printed here and sending a cheque or cash. You can specify a dedication to remember a person or a significant event. Please return it to the address shown.

A Book of Remembrance is kept and updated annually in Oswestry Library.

The appeal closes on Twelfth Night.

After Christmas we will be inviting local charities to contact the club by email, oswestrycambrian@gmail.com and explain what help they need and so ask for support.

Christmas is a time to celebrate with loved ones, look back fondly over happy years and remember those we have loved and lost. For many it can also be a time of sadness, when the loss of a loved one is most keenly felt, a time when we particularly remember those people whom we love but, sadly, see no longer. But the Tree of Light is not only about remembering those we have lost. It is also about celebrating, a time to be glad and grateful for all the gifts we have received and to remember how good life has been to us. A wedding anniversary, an engagement, a special birthday, a treasured friendship, the birth of a child; all of these things we can celebrate by making a dedication on the Tree of Light.

plEaSE USE blOcK capiTalS i would like a light as thanksgiving for:

................................................................

i enclose a donation of £ (minimum £5 please - Cheque payable to: Rotary Club of Oswestry)

Title

Name

address

postcode

I confirm that I am an income tax payer

Signature

Date ........................................................

Tick here if you do not wish to appear in the Book of Remembrance send to: Rotary Tree of Light, 20 Broadlands Way, Oswestry, SY11 2YD Registered Charity Trust Number: 1101708

pric ES

The Warehouse, beudy Maesybwch, Waterfall road, llanrhaeadr Y.M, SY10 0bZ Tel: 01691 780416 www.simplyribbons.com

from Aico telephone: 01691 664100 enquiries @aico.co.uk www.aico.co.uk

In support of the Rotary club’s Tree of Light Appeal

www.simplyribbons.com

from Oswestry Framing Company 15 leg Street Oswestry SY11 2Nl Supporting the Rotary club’s Tree of Light appeal Tel 01691 670552 www.oswestryframing.co.uk

Unit 3, Southwater Way, Telford, TF3 4JG

T: 01952 200200

Unit 3, Southwater Way, Telford, TF3 4JG

E: info@fairshare.uk.com

Unit 3, Southwater Way, Telford, TF3 4JG

T: 01952 200200

E: info@fairshare.uk.com

T: 01952 200200 E: info@fairshare.uk.com

Unit 3, Southwater Way,

Frosted ChiC

It’s time to get in the festive mood. Are you dressing up to the nines for the season’s parties or finding something more demure? Add some unique accessories to pull it all together like this…

Michelle Keegan 3PC Co Ord Blazer Red £55, www.very.co.uk

Sequin Trousers Co Ord £26, www.matalan.co.uk Black Heel Boots £23, direct.asda.com

F&F Brown Maxi Coat £55, www.tesco.com

F&F Mink Ontario Co Ord LS Top £16, www.tesco.com

F&F Mink Ontario Co Ord Skirt £14, www.tesco.com

Contact Croc Effect Slingback £95; Everlong Multi Crystal Bag £70, both at www.dunelondon.com

“Going to the Chapel & We’re Gonna Get Married”

When you’re searching for the perfect dress for your wedding day, you want a boutique you can walk into and feel instantly comfortable and relaxed. It’s a big deal trying to find your dress and having the friendly support of a boutique owner as well as friends and family can make the shopping experience a dream.

The Dress Bridal Boutique launched October 2024, offering a special experience from the moment you book the appointment to the moment you find ‘the dress’.

Brides should feel heard when wedding dress shopping, so owner Katrina’s mission is to always deliver more than the bride ever expected. “Many come to their appointments not knowing what they want, but by asking just a few questions, I always know which direction we need to go in. Appointments (typically between 1.5 to 2 hours) are never rushed as you should enjoy the whole experience. We always recommend a maximum of four guests at the appointment because it’s critical the bride can focus on what they want and not feel overwhelmed with lots of opinions.”

The Dress Bridal Boutique has a perfect position in the centre of Oswestry and only a minute’s walk from Central Car Park. It seems the availability of 4 Old Chapel Court came just at the right time for Katrina as it offers a private area above the shop floor where brides can change and try on dresses. If stairs are an issue, Katrina can accommodate.

You’ll only find beautiful, stylish designer dresses in the boutique and never the bland. Samples in store are Élysée, Morilee, Martina Liana and Enzoani and cover sizes 8-16. All the dresses are listed on the website, so you can choose your top 5 favourites to try before you attend your appointment. With Katrina on hand to help you, she understands what will suit your body type and can help you consider some styles you might have missed.

Katrina explains, “When I was 16 I worked in a bridal

shop, and in all honesty, I think I spent more time trying on the dresses and dreaming of my ‘special day’ than actually doing any work. But I had the best time and that feeling never left me! When it came to my own wedding, I felt overwhelmed by all the dresses and felt scared to even touch them. So, I eventually decided to design my own dress, and I’ve always felt I missed the magic of the experience.

“My dream now is to make sure brides always feel comfortable, confident and happy when they leave their appointment.”

Book an appointment by calling 01691 587966 or email info@thedressbridalboutique.co.uk.

The Dress Bridal Boutique, 4 Old Chapel Court, Oswestry.

Hey Beautiful

Oswestry’s Women & Girls’ Cricket Team Enjoy Most Successful Season Yet

Oswestry Cricket Club’s Women & Girls’ (WaGs) section enjoyed their most successful cricket season ever this year and secured two major new playing kit sponsors in Welshpool Printing Group (WPG) and Oswestry Approved Care & Support to boot.

One of the most successful women’s teams in Shropshire, Oswestry WaGs went unbeaten in topping the Strategic Leisure Super 8s Hardball League Group C, as well as winning the Shropshire County Super 10s Softball League, suffering just one loss. The team, which is based at Oswestry CC’s Stonehouse Oval ground on Morda Road, are also current holders of both the indoor and outdoor hardball leagues from the 2023 winter season.

Oswestry WaGs captain and coach, Naomi Payne launched the women and girls’ section in 2018 and has seen the side go from strength to strength each year. “We were thrilled to have won both leagues this season,” said Naomi. “And to mark our success by welcoming two major sponsors, both of whom are genuinely passionate about supporting the growth of women and girls’ cricket at the club, was the icing on the cake.

“With WPG splashed across our shirt fronts, Oswestry Approved Care & Support having our backs, and the Turner Group and The Jools Payne Partnership up our sleeves, we are well and truly covered through to the 2027 season. This financial support

goes beyond simply kit sponsorship and will help us continue to develop our squad, which is full of impressive young talent,” she added.

WPG’s Joint Managing Director, Paul Jones said, “We have seen the Oswestry WaGs squad grow into a highly successful side. We admire their competitive spirit and keen sense of fair play. Having ourselves been rooted in the region since 1960, we are proud to be associated with a great club with an equally strong heritage.”

Amanda Jones (no relation)

Director of Oswestry Approved Care & Support added, “We are well known for having the backs of our local community, so to be invited to have the backs of the WaGs too, was a no brainer for us. We are fully committed to supporting the significant health and wellbeing benefits that come with sporting endeavours and we’re confident our partnership with the Oswestry Women & Girls’ cricket squad will see them enjoy another successful season in 2025.”

A former winner of the ECB National Coach of the Year, Naomi is particularly proud of the strong representation of mothers and daughters in the squad and the emphasis on fun, fair play and enjoyment. “We currently have six mum and daughter duos regularly turning up to our training sessions, and although we’re competitive we always have a great laugh on and off the field,” she smiled.

“We are using this winter’s indoor

softball league to further develop our outstanding youngsters, with 16-yearold Emily Ellis taking on the captaincy after showing exceptional leadership skills and cricketing nous.”

Oswestry WaGs warmly welcome new members, regardless of cricketing experience.

So even if you have never picked up a bat or bowled a ball, if you are aged 12 years or over and would like to take part in a pre-season taster session simply message Naomi through their Facebook page Facebook/OswestryWomensCricket or @occwomenandgirls on Instagram to register your interest.

Top: Oswestry Women & Girls’ winning County softball team in their new playing kit generously sponsored by WPG, Oswestry Approved Care & Support, Turner Group and The Jools Payne Partnership.

Below: Amanda Jones and Sammy from Oswestry Approved Care & Support join the WaGs at a training session at the Stonehouse Oval ground.

MAYOR’S MINUTES

Mayor Cllr Mike Isherwood

This is my last column of 2024 and, whilst it may be a little early, I want to wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and my very best wishes for 2025.

Autumn and early Christmas are a busy time for the Council, with the Christmas Lights Switch On and Christmas Live creating a festive sparkle.

Not only are they wonderful community events but they are also good for the town economically! Money spent in Oswestry, in particular with our fantastic local independent shops, cafes and other businesses, means more jobs, fewer empty shops and a more vibrant town centre for us all to enjoy.

I am pleased that the Town Council puts on these events and pleased that we have once again committed to provide free parking at our car parks on the weekends leading up to Christmas.

keeping you secure

Emergency Lockout

Locks: Fitted, Replaced or upgraded

UPVC Door Repairs

Wooden Doors Fitted & Repaired

Keys Cut

Boarding Up & Replacement Glass Fitting

Boarding Up & Replacement Glass Fitting keeping you secure

Each year, the Mayor of Oswestry fundraises for local charities and organisations. I have chosen to fundraise for the Memorial Hall in Oswestry, which is our version of the village hall. It is a fantastic facility that many local groups rely on. I write this column having recently completed the velocity zip wire challenge at Penrhyn Quarry. For someone scared of heights, this was a challenge indeed!

If you would like to support my fundraising, you can donate via my JustGiving page, visit www. justgiving.com and in the search bar type ‘Mayor of Oswestry’.

One of the privileges of the role of Mayor is to represent the town and Council at the annual Remembrance Day Service and Parade, which is on Sunday 10 November. With conﬂict all over the world, and people being displaced by war and fearing for their future, Remembrance is a time to remember and to reﬂect on the sort of future we want for our children.

Discover Your Craft at Days Upholstery School

Are you ready to unleash your creativity?

Join us at Days Upholstery School, a family-run business in Oswestry with over 32 years of experience. Founded by Paul, Eirwen, and Gemma, we have transformed from one of Shropshire’s largest independent upholstery businesses into a nurturing space for aspiring upholsterers.

Our diverse range of classes cater to all skill levels. Whether

you’re interested in our Stool Making Course, where you can craft beautiful, functional pieces, or the Single Headboard Class, which teaches you how to create stunning headboards that elevate any bedroom, there’s something for everyone.

For those who want to bring their own projects, we offer our Bring Your Own Upholstery Project class. There’s a selection of stool designs, with a large choice of wooden legs and personalised guidance to help you complete your vision. Additionally, our Cane Seating Courses provide an opportunity to learn traditional techniques that are both practical and rewarding.

Join us at Days Upholstery School and discover the joy of upholstery in a supportive

environment. Sign up today and start your journey towards mastering this timeless craft!

We also offer a gift voucher, should you want to buy one for a loved one. The classes are proving very popular, so to avoid disappointment, early bookings are recommended. Make your booking by emailing chairsbydays@hotmail. com or calling 01691 679724. Visit daysupholsteryschool.co.uk

Day’s Upholstery School runs courses designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike. See website for all booking information. gift vouchers available book early to disappointmentavoid

WE NEED YOUR HELP

Oswestry Town Museum is 12 years old this year and we continue to increase our displays and knowledge of the history and heritage of Oswestry and beyond.

To allow us to keep up this important work we urgently need additional volunteers to meet and greet our visitors on a Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

Opening hours are 10am – 3pm which allows volunteers to fit in with local school runs.

There are many opportunities to get involved in ongoing projects, displays and research although this is not a requirement of volunteering.

We have a very successful and expanding education outreach project where we work with local schools both with visits to the museum and school-based presentations.

In the first instance please e-mail info@ oswestrytownmuseum.co.uk or ring Mark or Harriet on 01691 780042.

Get in touch for a chat about volunteering at the museum

One of our most recent educational projects:

CAPTURING OUR MEMORIES

The Friends of Llangedwyn Schools, in association with Oswestry Town Museum, have been commissioned to create a booklet to commemorate the 200th year of educational facilities in the village of Llangedwyn to be launched in 2025.

The Watkin Williams Wynn family issued a covenant, 200 years ago, for the use of their buildings within the picturesque village of Llangedwyn for the purposes of educating children within and outwith the catchment area.

The museum is looking for 200 memories, anecdotes, stories, thoughts, comments or photographs spanning the learning experiences of former pupils, parents and staff. We’ve already uncovered stories and memories from the past which give a fantastic view of the life in a rural village school.

Why not add your thoughts, comments and photographs to this fantastic project.

Please submit any information to info@oswestrytownmuseum. co.uk. We hope to produce the booklet in Spring 2025.

Our legacy project, the postbox we used in our 2017 ‘from ink to ash to diamond’ project for which the museum won an award earlier this year (2024). It was voted one of the best legacy Heritage Open Days projects in the last 30 years and takes pride of place in the National trust 30 for 30 gallery.

Discovering, Preserving and Displaying the Heritage and History of Oswestry and Beyond

When you visit Oswestry Town Museum you’ll find so much history about the area spanning across hundreds of years.

New for 2025 are displays and stories from Park Hall Camp through the ages. Featuring in particular the IJLB (Infantry Junior Leaders Battalion) display of artefacts, cap badges and anecdotal stories including the infamous ‘Duck Shooting’ incident.

The current Oddfellows display will be updated to include new material and one family’s involvement with the Oddfellows and their family link to Wilfred Owen.

Delve into the latest stories covering family history research the museum has undertaken during the past couple of years. There’s even one or two surprising ‘finds’ including one linked to David Livingstone.

Item brought in by a local man who found it whilst digging in his garden. Originally described as a ‘lump of rust’ but now believed to be from the early medieval period.

The museum will start working towards a joint display with the Canal and River Trust featuring all their hard work on restoring the canals around Oswestry

The museum holds lots of objects of interest and a display of the latest additions to the collection include a rusty relic discovered locally, thought to be from early medieval times.

During January next year the museum will start planning for their fantastic 2025 Heritage Open Days festival, which is scheduled for early September. This festival for which the museum has previously won awards, will feature something for everyone: talks and walks, presentations, places to visit, lots to see and do over a 10 day festival. The festival theme is ‘the history of architecture and design’ Watch this space as they say for regular updates about what you can do and see.

An exciting project to look out for is a link to Liverpool being housed in the Oswestry area and this one with a fantastic royal connection.

The museum will start working towards a joint display with the Canal and River Trust featuring all their hard work on restoring the canals around Oswestry, the challenges they have faced and overcome, the stories they have uncovered and the things they have found.

Oswestry Town Museum

Wednesday: 10am - 3pm Friday: 10am - 3pm Saturday: 10am - 3pm Out of hours 01691 780042

www.oswestrytownmuseum.co.uk

One of the boards demonstrating the variety of army units that used Park hall camp as a training base through the years.

CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW

PICTURE BOOK

Chosen by Finn, age 7, Book Mice

Captain Christmas by Karl Newson and Tom Knight

The pirates send Christmas presents to the children. Then they send Christmas presents to their pals. The pirates sneak into your house and give you lovely presents.

What I liked about this book is that the pirates send Christmas presents to you.

MIDDLE GRADE BOOK

Chosen by Thomas, age 8, Book Worms

The Snowman Code

by Simon Stephenson

A great book about a girl and a snowman meeting each other and defeating the girl’s bullies then ﬁning the snowman’s lost love. I liked that it was funny, so it had jokes like ‘snowmen have nine lives’, ‘snowmen migrate south in winter’. The snowman code is a certain rule that all snowmen must follow. My favourite bit was when all the snowmen have a big party to celebrate the start of spring. I also liked how the snowmen came to life once you spoke to them six times.

To get involved in selecting the Children’s Choice, sign up for one of Booka Bookshop’s Junior Book Clubs. Book Mice is for 7+ and meets on the 3rd Monday of every month. Books Worms is for 9+ and meets on the 3rd Tuesday of every month. Book Dragons is for 12+ and meets on the 3rd Wednesday of every month. Book Clubs run only during term time from 4:15 to 5pm. Contact sian@bookabookshop.co.uk to register your interest.

Wednesday Night Is Film Night in Oswestry

4 Dec: A ROYAL NIGHT OUT (12A): On VE Day in 1945, Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret are allowed out to join the peace celebrations. It’s a night of excitement, danger, and the ﬁrst ﬂutters of romance. Based on true events, this romantic comedy adventure is a nostalgic British affair - and a bit of rollicking fun!

11 Dec: THELMA (12A): A funny and endearing pastiche to Tom Cruise and stunt-fuelled action cinema. Grandma Thelma gets into several ﬁxes and plenty of stunts tracking down the man who conned her out of a lot of money – on her mobility scooter. Wholesome comedy at its best.

18 Dec: FINDING YOUR FEET (12A): When suburban toff Sandra surprises her husband with his mistress, she turns up at her bohemian sister Bif’s cluttered council ﬂat. She’s soon joining Bif’s dance class, smoking her weed and looking for love herself. With an all-star British cast (Imelda Staunton, Celia Imrie, Timothy Spall), this is a great ﬁlm about growing older and learning to enjoy it.

Films start 7.30pm. Tickets £8. More details and info via www.oswestryfilmsociety.com –all films shown at the Hermon Chapel Arts Centre, Chapel St, Oswestry SY11 1LF. The venue has a licensed café-bar and is fully accessible.

POETRY

Christmas Eve 2024

By Dave Andrews

All’s peaceful now, the children sleep, dream eagerly of Santa. Outside the snow wraps the world in white. In here our tree is bright, gifts await impatient hands. To the night I whisper thanks that I’ve been blessed with loved ones to bring joy to this Christmas.

Delight in these readings of comfort and joy for all the family.

Jolly Festive Jeeves by P.G. Wodehouse

All P.G. Woodhouse’s beloved characters star in this joyous romp through his work – Jeeves, Smith and, of course, the Empress of Blandings. A classic from the king of comic writing.

The

Most

Wonderful Crime of the Year by Ally Carter

Two rival authors are invited to a Christmas house party but neither expects their host to be the world’s most powerful author: Eleanor Ashley. That night she vanishes. The bitter rivals will have to become allies to have any hope of saving her.

Advent: Recipes and Crafts for the Countdown to Christmas by Laura Fleiter and Kerstin Niehoff

Enjoy the 24 days of Advent sharing mindful vegetarian recipes and fun crafting projects with friends and family. Slow down, spend time with loved ones and make your home truly festive.

The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg

Late on Christmas Eve, a boy boards the mysterious Polar Express bound for the North Pole. Once there, Santa offers him any gift he desires – the one the boy chooses turns out to be very special indeed.

The

Twinkly

Twinkly Nativity by Sam Taplin

The ten twinkly lights in this beautifully illustrated board book bring the story of the Nativity to life for children aged three to six. From a shining angel to the star the Wise Men follow, the real lights create an enchanting retelling of the Christmas story.

PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL

Stage Coach has been running for 25 years in the heart of Oswestry in the new venue ‘Open Space Studios’ at Oswestry Library, where children aged from 4 - 18 years come through the doors to ignite their passion for the arts. They learn Singing, Dance and Drama, building con dence and courage for life.

Stagecoach would like children to feel brave, happy and safe in a friendly family environment. Their skilled professional teachers want nothing more, but to make sure everyone has fun and always enjoys their time with the Stagecoach family. Tel: 07718892738 | Web: stagecoach.co.uk/Oswestry

FULLY LICENSED BAR

Christmas at Qube

Join us in spreading Christmas cheer!

From November, we have Christmas Gift Cards available at reception, as well as fun Christmas activities for kids (and kids-at-heart). Our postbox is back, ready to receive letters to Santa from 11th November!

Meanwhile, our Christmas Craft Exhibition and Local Artist Sale remains open until 14th January 2025.

SUNDAY 8TH DECEMBER 9AM OSWESTRY ALL WELCOME FROM 11 YEARS OLD UPWARDS

Meet Local Artists: Jason and Myfanwy

Myfanwy Powell: for a love of horses

Previously based in the small village of Llangedwyn, Powys, Myfanwy grew up around horses: this fuelled her love and respect for these beautiful creatures. Realising from a young age this was her calling, she was further inspired after attending Burghley Horse Trials where she encountered artist Susan Crawford at work. Myfanwy’s paintings capture the essence of each horse’s personality; her aim is to help people understand how much we can learn from them.

“My own horse (the dapple grey you see in some of my pieces), has taught me to be kind and patient. Horses live in the present and are such peaceful and sentient animals, which is why they’ve been partnered alongside mankind for so long,” explains Myfanwy.

Eventually Myfanwy began to take private commissions from the age of 15; this led to a following of pet lovers who wanted to capture their beloved animals on canvas. Myfanwy re-creates a cherished moment for an owner to re-live; particularly poignant when a family pet passes. Her talent lies not only in creating a beautiful painting, but in finding the emotional connection an owner has with their animal.

Jason w akefield: the P ower of intuition

Jason’s career as a farrier has given him a strong background in working metal for a purpose, enabling him to channel this skill into his sculptures. Every bronze sculpture Jason creates is made by hand, bringing emotion and a strong message with each piece.

Being entirely self-taught to work with bronze, Jason is able to tap into his intuition when moving through the creative process. It was a past friendship with someone that changed his life and opened his eyes to what he was truly capable of. This person taught him to connect directly with his intuition in order to help him work in partnership with horses when shoeing rather than struggling to work on them when they resist. As a result, he’s able to engage with his creative side and he’s ready to share his message.

Through his work, Jason’s mission is to inspire you to expand your mind and consider what’s stopping you from reaching your true potential. His most striking piece, The Brain, shows the battle between the left and right side of the brain – the conscious and sub-conscious, the logical and creative. Jason is a firm believer that if you want to know something in this life, you will be shown and when you look closely at his sculptures, you’ll see the internal battle we all need to overcome to find inner peace.

Interested in owning a piece of art? Visit www.turnerfinearts.com to view these paintings and inquire about commissions.

Myfanwy Powell Above: Newmarket Bays Left: Power and Play

Jason Wakefield The Brain

Sunday 1st December at 6.30pm aDvent CarOl ServiCe a candlelit service featuring the lovely advent carols

Please note that the service starts in darkness so please be seated ten minutes before the start

Sunday 22nd December at 6.30pm

traDitiOnal FeStival OF

nine leSSOnS & CarOlS

all your favourite carols sung by our fine cathedral quality choir. if you can’t get to King’s College Cambridge then Oswestry is the place to be Christmas eve tuesday 24th December 4.00pm Crib ServiCe WitH CHriStinGle a service especially designed for young children 11.30pm MiDniGHt MaSS

Wednesday 25th December at 10.30am CHriStMaS

the music for all the above services can be seen on our website stoswaldsoswestry.org.uk

Spiced Turkey Broth with Fragrant Dumplings

Thoroughly tasty and warming – this spicy broth with a hint of heat is good, hearty feel-good food.

Ingred I ents

For the broth

• 1 onion, peeled and sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

• 1 leek, sliced

• 3 celery sticks, sliced

• Olive oil

• A few fresh tarragon sprigs

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme

• 1 tbsp ’nduja paste (optional)

• 125ml white wine

• 500ml turkey or chicken stock

• 1 head of cavolo nero, leaves stripped from the stems

For the dumplings

• 1 shallot, peeled and finely diced

• 30g butter

• 1 clove garlic, peeled and crushed

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 100g shredded suet

• 100g self-raising flour

• 100g fresh breadcrumbs

• Zest of 1 unwaxed lemon

• A handful of chopped fresh basil leaves

• A pinch of chilli flakes

• 2 medium free-range eggs, beaten

method

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C, fan 160 °C, gas 4.

2. In a casserole dish, sweat the onion, garlic, leek and celery in some olive oil for 10 minutes until soft. Add the tarragon sprigs, chopped thyme and ’nduja paste, if using. Pour in the wine and boil off the alcohol for a few minutes before adding the stock. Simmer gently for another 10 minutes.

3. Meanwhile make the dumplings. In a frying pan, sweat the shallot in the butter until soft, then stir in the garlic and thyme and season. Mix this with the suet, flour, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, basil leaves and chilli flakes. When cool enough, add the eggs. Mix together well. Roll into balls the size of pickled onions. Don’t roll them too tightly to keep them light.

4. Drop the dumplings into the hot stock, add the torn cavolo nero and put the casserole dish (no lid) in the oven for around 25 minutes. Serve immediately.

Recipe extracted from Matt Tebbutt’s Pub Food by Matt Tebbutt, published by Quadrille, priced £26, with photography by Chris Terry. (Quadrille, £26), Photography © Chris Terry.

Mulled

Fashioned

A t w i s t o n a c l a s s i c ; C h r i s t m a s i n a g l a s s . . .

I N G R E D I E N T S

5 0 m l B o u r b o n

1 0 m l E l d e r f l o w e r S y r u p

2 5 m l L i m e J u i c e

5 0 m l C r a n b e r r y J u i c e

F r e s h R o s e m a r y

F r e s h G i n g e r

G A R N I S H

C i n n a m o n S t i c k

S t a r A n i s e M E T H O D

1 . F i l l a c o c k t a i l s h a k e r w i t h i c e

c u b e s

2 . A d d B o u r b o n , L i m e , C r a n b e r r y ,

E l d e r f l o w e r , R o s e m a r y , G i n g e r

3 . S h a k e w e l l & s t r a i n i n t o a l o w

g l a s s o v e r i c e

4 . T o p w i t h G i n g e r B e e r

5 . G a r n i s h w i t h S t a r A n i s e ,

C i n n a m o n S t i c k & a s p r i g

o f R o s e m a r y

w w w . t o w n h o u s e o s w e s t r y . c o m

Covent Garden

Fruit and Veg Shop

Are you in a tizz? Desperately pondering what to get who and who to get what for Christmas. Or wondering when you’ll find the time to do your Christmas grocery shopping?

Well, let the lovely staff at Covent Garden help take some of the pressure off.

You can pre-order all you fruit and vegetables, eggs (local, free range), bread (Smiths) and cakes (Laura’s). Pickled onions/beetroot/eggs/red cabbage (Dawn’s).

They will then be put together and ready for collection or delivery on your requested date.

They can also help you with your gifts. How about one of their fabulous hampers?

You can have fruit, veg or mixed.

Jars of honey or Welsh speciality conserves/chutneys/ condiments can be added. Or you can totally tailor it to your requirements.

Recipients are never disappointed with these beautiful, yet useful hampers.

Christmas opening hours will be announced in December. Call 01691 659516, Covent Garden Fruit & Veg, 14 English Walls, Oswestry, SY11 2PA

Amy Brown

Stollen with Honey Butter

A ﬁrm favourite at Christmas time, this delicious stollen has all the classic Yuletide ﬂavours – marzipan, cranberries and clementines.

INGREDIENTS

For the stollen

• 100g unsalted butter, cubed

• 300g strong white ﬂour, plus extra for dusting

• 1⁄2 tsp salt

• 150ml whole milk, plus extra to glaze

• 60g caster sugar

• 1 x 7g sachet dried yeast

• 3 clementines, zested

• 100g dried cranberries, chopped

• 50g pecan nuts, chopped

• 60g dark chocolate chunks

• 200g marzipan, rolled into a long log

For the honey butter

• 100g unsalted butter, room temperature

• 60g clear honey

• 2 tsp icing sugar

METHOD

1. To make the loaf, rub the butter into the ﬂour and salt in a large mixing bowl to make a breadcrumb consistency.

2. Heat the milk in a small pan to blood temperature (37°C), add the sugar and the yeast and mix well. Then add the grated clementine zest, cranberries, pecans and chocolate to the breadcrumb mix. Make a well in the centre and add the warmed milk. Mix to a soft dough.

3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes on a lightly ﬂoured surface before rolling it into a rectangle of 30 x 15cm. Roll the marzipan to a length that will ﬁt the loaf and lay it down one edge. Roll the dough over to encase the marzipan – you can brush the edges with a little water to help them seal. Arrange on a baking tray lined with greaseproof paper, cover and leave to prove for 30 minutes in a warm place.

4. Preheat the oven to 160°C, fan 140°C, gas 3. Brush the loaf with milk to glaze and bake for 45-60 minutes. Remove from the oven, cover with a clean tea towel and allow to cool a bit before slicing.

5. To make the honey butter, beat the butter until soft in a bowl, add the honey and icing sugar, and beat again until soft and smooth. To serve, slice the loaf and spread with the honey butter.

Recipe extracted from Matt Tebbutt’s Pub Food by Matt Tebbutt, published by Quadrille, priced £26, with photography by Chris Terry. (Quadrille, £26), Photography © Chris Terry.

Serves

DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE

Don’t take risks - Call the team to ensure you get home safe and sound this festive season

We will now be accepting bookings for up to 8 seats with our new driver starting in a Ford Minibus.

We strive to o er 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.

• 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

North Shropshire College reveals new, £1 million refurbishment, providing state of the art facilities for students and staff.

North Shropshire College has recently undergone refurbishment to improve the facilities for students and staff at the college. The atrium and refectory have been completely transformed to allow students to have a central hub that is modern and inspiring, making it an inviting space for socialising and relaxing between lessons. With a mixture of booths, long benches or private spaces, there is something to suit everyone. Students can also use this space to study and complete group projects together as the area has excellent technological fixtures allowing students to work on their laptops and other devices.

This hub is located right next to the food counter where students and staff are now able to purchase Costa Coffee along with a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks and meals. The new refectory gives an exciting insight as to what to expect for the next stage of the refurbishment of Scholars Restaurant where catering and hospitality students studying at North Shropshire College will be able to operate services and accommodate their guests in a modern, stylish surrounding.

The refurbishment has also introduced a new health and fitness suite to the college, which is expected to be very popular amongst students and staff, allowing the facilities for them to stay fit and improve their health and wellbeing. This will be a great opportunity for students to focus their spare time on achieving goals and working towards self-

improvement, providing people with facilities that they might not be able to access otherwise.

The health and fitness suite is set to have state-of-the-art equipment including a wide range of strength and conditioning equipment, cardiovascular equipment and functional fitness equipment to meet the needs of all. It will be a fantastic asset for the sports and public service students to enhance their studies. These courses are heavily focused upon understanding the body, including the anatomy and physiology of the body, healthy exercising and nutritional practices amongst many other elements of fitness. The gym will be highly effective for physical demonstrations throughout the different modules as well as promoting the student’s physical preparation for their career aspirations.

These upgraded areas come after a recent £2million investment into the improvement of Salon QB, new plumbing and electrical workshops, and a science lab. This investment has been hugely successful and is reflected in the quality of the student’s work and passion they put into perfecting their skills. At North Shropshire College, we are committed to providing our student’s with contemporary facilities to allow them to practice and improve their skills in real life settings and be as prepared for the workplace as possible. We continue to look for ways to make our students experience as valuable as it can be throughout their time at North Shropshire College and we are excited to see our students thriving in these newly refurbished spaces.

If you are interested in studying a course at North Shropshire College or are interested in what we have to offer, head over to hlnsc.ac.uk for more information. Alternatively, call us on 01691 688 000, or email info@nsc.ac.uk to help with any enquiries.

“My most grateful thanks for all the care and attention I have received over the last 3 years. Everyone has been so pleasant and caring. Nothing has ever been too much trouble.”

Get the support you need to stay at home right now - If you’re not eligible for care from your local authority or the NHS, don’t worry; whether you need 24 hour support or just 30 minutes a day, we’re here for you. And the best part? Our prices are up to 20% less than other home-care providers, o ering top-notch care with experienced and caring workers.

Caring Today for a Better Tomorrow

Amanda Jones set up Approved Care and Support in March 2017, but 2024 was the first chance she’s had to enter the business into the Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin Partners in Care awards.

The Salop Road based business picked up Care Employer of the Year. Staff member Kirsty Penney was awarded Care Worker of the Year, colleague Leonila Morrison received a runners-up spot and Emily Prydden runner up for the Office Team Member award.

Amanda, originally from Sunderland, first started caring at the age of 15 with her grandmother and while she had other jobs, including navigating rally cars for her husband, she knew caring was her calling.

She says, “Because of Covid, they haven’t held the awards for the last few years, so this was the first chance we had to enter the team. To win these awards is amazing and I’m exceptionally proud of them.

“I moved to Shropshire in 1995, then moved away to find my career, along the way producing a documentary photography book, and becoming a Registered Manager in the Health Care sector.

“After gaining many years of experience in the care sector, I returned to Shropshire to pursue my career. I then open Approved Care and Support in 2017. I found so many good things in caring and decided I would keep a list of all the good practice I had seen and build it into my own company. I really believe it’s not just basic support that’s required, but it’s the little things that matter the most.”

Amanda was full of praise for her team of carers and office staff, saying that Approve Care and Support have an amazing team, a great reputation, and they all do their best to care for their community. She added, the reason why they had so much success was down to how they behave as colleagues and employees. “We did well because we care as much about our employees as we do our service users. We care about each other and without that, we wouldn’t be able to do anything. I hope all at Approved Care and Support are very proud of what they do and how well they do it. Just amazing.”

hubs and participate in raising funds for much need support to all veterans.

Staff members enjoy fundraising and challenging themselves for the cause. Operations Manager Sammy Locke, managed to raise £1,185.90 by completing a 32 mile walk in a day, with support from team members throughout the walk and meeting customers along the way.

Sammy and staff members Abbi Lewis and Ilona Ostalowska, joined forces with Helen Evans and Caitlin Sarah Chapman of TNS Women’s FC to take part in a Skydive, raising £2,737.00.

Supporting Local Approved Care and Support ensure they share their support with other local ventures and charities, donating when they can. They are proud sponsors of TNS Women FC and Oswestry Cricket Club Women and Girls and are proud to be Cancer Champions and Dementia Friends. The company gained Silver Award in the Armed Forces Covenant, showing they support the armed forces, their families and wider community. Amanda and her team attend the veterans’

“We try and show our staff how valued they are. Every year they continue to work with us, they receive a bouquet of flowers to say thank you from the company and their customers for everything they do. At Christmas all care workers receive a personal hamper, and customers receive a gift. We also ask our employee’s children to draw pictures for our Christmas card and every year we have them printed and sent to all our customers, staff and associates.”

For more information visit approvedcareandsupport.co.uk, email approved@approvedcareandsupport. co.uk or call 01691 655 999.

Approved Care and Support, 14a Salop Road, Oswestry SY11 2NU

“...when that day comes

smallpox”

We are a funny lot us humans – when something becomes common place we often forget how special it is. Take clean water, safe food, good waste disposal and – vaccinations. Let’s go back to the 1940’s and 1950’s: 8000 cases of paralytic polio per year. Half a million cases of measles with 2000 children dying every year. 46000 cases of diphtheria with more than 2000 deaths in some years. In my career I saw no diphtheria or polio and 1 case of measles. Sadly, measles is making a comeback as these facts are forgotten with about 2500 cases this year.

Across the world vaccination saves 5 lives every minute. From measles immunisation alone 23 million less children have died since 2000. A staggering statistic. Our title today comes from the father of vaccination, Edward Jenner. His prediction came true in 1979 when smallpox, that killed 3 in every 10 people infected, was eradicated – worldwide!

Trinity Clinic

Edward Jenner

This brings me to the newest UK vaccination – RSV (respiratory syncytial virus – you can see why it’s abbreviated!) vaccine being offered to all of us over 75 and pregnant women at 28 weeks. RSV is a major cause of chest illness. It offers 70% protection to the baby as the immunity is transferred whilst in the womb. RSV infections in the ﬁrst 6 months of life are particularly dangerous. Why give it to the over 75’s? RSV is directly responsible for about 5 to 7000 deaths per year in this age group. There is a 1 in a million chance of a rare serious side effect but if you offset that with the 76% eﬃcacy of the vaccine, meaning you are 4 times less likely to die of RSV, then it explains why the NHS is funding this programme.

Personally I, and my family, have had every vaccine on offer. Yes, we have sometimes had reactions, some of them unpleasant. The alternative would be worse!

Shoulder

Knee

Long term counselling and emotional support should be available to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.

County Counselling is a Community Interest Company (not for profit) pioneered by a group of local professional counsellors. They identified there is a lack of low-cost counselling for adults, children and young people in the area. The three directors, who created County Counselling this year, have strived to create a safe space for those experiencing challenges. Aiming to provide low-cost counselling from £10 per session to residents of Shropshire and the bordering counties.

The team is dedicated to making a difference to our local community by volunteering and offering their counselling expertise, with all donations going towards running costs, investment in our counsellors, training, research and expansion.

All counsellors are insured, qualified or in training, and are all members of a professional body.

How much does it cost?

Individuals and Young People: £10 per session (12 years and older).

Couples Counselling: £20 per session

How to refer...

For self referrals use the contact button on the website and for professionals you can email or use the referral form on the website.

www.countycounselling.org.uk/contact CIC number: 15655864

www.countycounselling.org.uk contact@countycounselling.org.uk

@countycounselling.org.uk

Full range of independent audiology services now available, including hearing tests, hearing aid advice and ﬁtting, hearing protection advice, and microsuction earwax removal.

• Home visits available

• Open 6 days a week

• FREE aftercare

• Convenient town centre location with parking nearby

• FREE trial of the latest hearing aids including Bluetooth and rechargable technology

Are you struggling with

Sleep Stress?

Back & Neck Pain? Joint & Muscle Pain? Headaches?

Womens Health Issues? Grumpy Babies & Children? Sports Injuries? 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

Healthy Focus

Winter Wellbeing

Winter can feel quite challenging for your health but here i share some ways to keep yourself well and warm as the nights draw in.

Research has shown that both singing and listening to music can have a host of health boosting benefits including: lowering blood pressure, decreasing stress hormones and increasing serotonin, dopamine and endorphin levels that elevate your mood and act as natural painkillers. So, whether you enjoy singing in the shower, with a choir or listening to heavy metal in the car, music can literally heal your body mind and soul.

Carols with Cantiones - 21 Dec 3.30pm Christ Church, Cantiones.org.uk.

Fron Male Voice Choir Concert - 14 Dec 2024, 7pm Gresford Parish Church wegottickets.com/ event/635466.

Or create your own music with Rick Wilson’s Drum Workshop 7 Dec 2.30pm – 4.30pm at Hermon Chapel hermon-arts.org.uk.Top of Form

Exercising can be harder in the winter as the dark evenings and rainy weather can make us feel less motivated so try a new class or group to inspire you to keep going. Pilates at Zest Ladies Gym: 01691 671471, email zestladies@gmail.com

Salsa Casa at Carriages Bistro: email salsa.casa. oswestry@gmail.com or join in the fun with the Shropshire Santa Run on 8 Dec - book your place with letsdothis.com.

There are also lots of activities you can do indoors to improve your fitness and help to keep you warm. Try Dr Chatterjees kitchen workoutdrchatterjee.com/5min-kitchen-workout. British Heart Foundations chair-based exercises: bhf.org. uk/chair-based-exercises or set yourself a Stair Climb Challenge for example Mount Everest, Nepal is 58,070 steps or 3,871 flights (a flight being 15 steps).

Winter and Christmas can bring emotional stresses so to downregulate your nervous system and access a deep state of clarity, connection and peace, try a Breathwork Journey at Turiya Yoga & Wellness. Message Ceri on 07957 450142 or ceri. jordan@outlook.com. Fight loneliness with some board gaming Sat 21 Dec, Oswestry Library or join me for my favourite way to destress - a cold water wild swim on the Winter Solstice 21 Dec Alderford Lake – message me for details. Have a happy healthy month!

Claire arnold The Meadows osTeopaTh CliniC

Are you grappling with the trials of pain, discomfort, or limited mobility? At Woods Orthotics, we dedicate ourselves to assessing your individual needs and providing tailored orthotic solutions designed to elevate your quality of life. Discover how our expert team can guide you on the path to a pain-free and vibrant life.

Ear Wax Trouble?

Sister Kate can help

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

Samuel Owen, Senior Audiologist: BEng (Hons), RHAD, CECHAA MSHAA, ABPI

The trivial benefits in kind (BiK) exemption applies to small non-cash benefits like a bottle of wine or a bouquet of flowers given occasionally to employees. By taking advantage of the exemption, employers can simplify the treatment of BiKs whilst at the same time offering a tax efficient way to give small gifts to employees.

Although the benefit is defined as ‘trivial’, employers should remember that this offers an excellent opportunity to give small rewards and incentives to employees. The key condition being that the gifts are not provided as a reward for services performed or as part of the employees’ duties. Gifts for personal milestones, such as the birth of a child or a marriage, as well as other gestures of goodwill would usually qualify.

Employers benefit as these trivial BiKs do not need to be included in PAYE settlement agreements or reported on P11D forms. Additionally, they are exempt from Class 1A National Insurance contributions.

To qualify for the tax exemption, trivial BiKs must:

• Not be cash or a cash-voucher (something that can be directly changed to cash);

• Cost £50 or less;

• Not be part of a salary sacriﬁce or other contractual arrangement;

• Not be given in recognition of services performed by the employee as part of their employment, or in anticipation of such services.

For directors or oﬃce-holders of close companies and their families, there is an annual cap of £300. Each gift must still adhere to the £50 limit, but this allows up to £300 of non-cash beneﬁts per person each year. This cap does not apply to employees. If the £50 limit is exceeded for any gift, the entire value becomes taxable.

On the lead up to Christmas, it is worth thinking about gifting staff £50 vouchers. Selecting a voucher which can be spent at a variety of shops makes this ‘trivial benefit’ a ‘significant benefit’ – stretching the value through the power of choice.

Emma Williams B.A. (Hons). F.C.C.A - Client Manager

Oswestry marketing expert joins Shropshire charity as trustee

Oswestry marketing consultant, Ruth Martin, has joined the Shropshire Community Foundation as a trustee helping in its work to distribute funding to charities and individuals across the county.

Ruth, of Martin & Jones Marketing is now one of the nine board members of the Shropshire Community Foundation which was set up two years ago.

The Foundation’s aim is to connect those with funds to local organisations, individuals and projects most in need of their support. The charity has already distributed £45,000 to organisations and individuals across the county.

Ruth is one of the nine trustees who all work and live in the county. They use their combined experience and knowledge of the volunteer and charity sector across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin to ensure funds go where they are needed and will have the most impact.

“The Foundation is doing a fantastic job in providing a pathway between those organisations and individuals who have funds to donate, to those individuals and organisations who need funds. I am very proud to be involved and to bring my expertise to the board of trustees,” she said.

The Foundation has recently launched the Shropshire Investors in Community scheme to encourage businesses and individuals to donate into a collective charity fund.

Ruth said the aim was to build this into a valuable source of funding for Shropshire’s community groups and charities.

Since its launch the Foundation has been involved in distributing £15,000 in grants from Zac’s Fund, a fund-raising effort originally set up to help Zac Oliver of Broseley get pioneering cancer treatment in the USA.

The legacy of that fund raising effort is now being used to provide grants to children and young people with cancer.

In Telford & Wrekin the Foundation administered the council’s Welcoming Spaces grant scheme offering grants totalling £15,000 to not-for-proﬁt organisations to support activities tackling loneliness and social isolation.

Shropshire Community Foundation trustees with Ruth Martin third from left

Christmas musings with Kate Lawson of Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors

Kate Lawson is a private client solicitor with Lanyon Bowdler, which has oﬃces in Oswestry and across Shropshire. Here, she explains how she helps people with their future ﬁnancial planning regarding wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney - and tells why she loves the Oswestry Christmas lights switch-on.

How would you describe your job?

Different every day! I get to meet many people from many walks of life generally at a time where they are grieving, vulnerable or considering their own mortality. Being able to offer advice or reassurance, or to sometimes conﬁrm their concerns allowing them to focus on grieving or focus on today rather than the what ifs is incredibly rewarding.

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

I received some advice from a colleague in the ﬁrst few days of my training contract some years ago now, which was that

no matter who you are or what qualifications you have, you can learn something from every one of your colleagues from the practising manager to the office junior. This is advice I still pass onto the firm’s trainees who I work with today.

What are your favourite festive events in Shropshire?

The Christmas lights switch-on in Oswestry has always been a favourite – it marks the start of the Christmas period for me and my family and has been even more exciting the past couple of years as my daughter has performed with her dance school.

Do you know of any hidden gems which more people should know about?

I very recently discovered Moor Farm Shop and Café in Baschurch, having had an excellent cooked breakfast and plan to return soon as the cakes looked delicious! The café at Whittington Castle and The Boathouse, Ellesmere, are also ﬁrm family favourites.

For any advice regarding wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) or estate planning, give Kate a call on 01743 280296 or email kate.lawson@lblaw.co.uk

Focus on… The canals in winter

through the lens of Graham Mitchell

Snow, ice, low sun and the smoke from stoves add a new dimension to the canal in winter. An ideal place for a Sunday afternoon stroll.

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.

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

your

Hi I am Jonathan, owner and installer at Access4Lofts Shrewsbury, a local family run business based in Ellesmere. I am here to help you utilise your loft space in order to declutter your home. I provide a quality service supplying and installing convenient, safe and affordable loft access and storage solutions to suit every requirement. My services include ladders, hatches, boarding, shelving, lighting and insulation

Bringing Quality to your Home witH oswestry KitcHens

and BatHrooms

Since opening their doors in 2021, Oswestry Kitchens and Bathrooms quickly became a firm fixture in town. Founded by local duo Ben and Michael, OKB started as a modest venture with big plans. Fast forward to today, and they’ve grown into a thriving business employing eight full-time staff members all dedicated to helping you create the kitchens and bathrooms you’ve always wanted.

But Ben and Michael aren’t stopping there. They’re excited to announce the upcoming addition of Tiles Etc, set to open in January 2025. This new venture is more than just an expansion; it’s a commitment to providing Oswestry with even more options to personalise and improve our homes with the help of experts.

Hand PicKed tiles

Tiles Etc will be a dedicated area within the OKB showroom, carefully designed to inspire your creativity. Come into a space filled with hand-picked tiles offering you 1000’s of décor options. Whether you’re a homeowner embarking on a DIY project or a tradesperson seeking quality materials, Tiles Etc has something for everyone.

But the offerings don’t stop at tiles. You’ll also find a wide selection of adhesives, grouts, and accessories—everything you need to bring your vision to life. And for those needing all the extras, Tiles Etc supply an array of wallpapers, paints, and hard flooring options. It’s truly a comprehensive destination for all your home upgrade needs.

Visiting Tiles Etc, you’ll find a full designer’s area. This space is all about you - you can roll up your sleeves and start creating your own mood boards. Mix and match tiles, wallpapers, and paint swatches to see how your chosen colours and textures work together. It’s a hands-on experience that makes the design process fun and easy.

Feeling a bit overwhelmed with choices? Don’t worry because OKB offers interior designers who can guide you through every step of creating your space. Whether you have a clear vision or need help developing one, the designer is there to ensure your project reflects your personality and meets all your needs.

a new exPerience for oswestry

OKB are committed to offering something truly new for Oswestry with Tiles Etc. They’ve created a space where customers will find everything under one roof - a relaxed but professional environment where you can feel inspired whilst receiving expert guidance. Everything is on hand for you.

“We wanted to create a space where people feel comfortable exploring their ideas,” says Ben. “Home improvements shouldn’t be stressful it should be an exciting journey, and we’re here to make that happen for our customers. Our team is passionate about what we do. We’re not just selling products we’re helping people build spaces where memories are made. That’s what motivates us every day.”

So, if you’re considering a full kitchen remodel, updating your bathroom, or simply looking for that perfect tile to complete a project, OKB and the soon-to-open Tiles Etc are here for you. They invite you to visit the showroom, explore the new designer’s area, and see firsthand how they can help turn your ideas into reality.

Opening January 2025

Scandi style

When long nights and crisp, cold days arrive, a Scandinavian approach to your festive interior style creates the perfect combination of contemporary and cosy. It’s all about ‘hygge’ – that feeling of contentment, comfort and conviviality – plus clean lines, muted colours and a strong connection to nature.

Timeless tradition

Scandinavian style has real authenticity, stemming from the dramatic natural surroundings of the far north. A bright folk style provided relief from the darkness and expanses of snow: carved wooden spoons, bowls, cups and chests, strong colours, woven rugs, blankets and cushions, and furniture painted in ochres, reds and yellows.

In the 18th century, the more elegant ‘Gustavian’ style, a blend of neo-classicism and romantic Rococo, became popular. Another major influence was Swedish artist Carl Larsson and his wife Karin, whose rural cottage was decorated in a unique combination of folk and Gustavian styles blended with Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau and Japonisme. Larsson’s paintings of his home helped popularise this light and airy, pretty yet functional style.

Add in the mighty influence of the 20th century Modernist designers and, later, Ikea’s global reach, and you have the clean-lined, bright and uncluttered Scandi look, with pretty colours and dashes of folk art, that we all know and love.

Embrace a natural feel and celebrate the festive season with Nordic-influenced decor.

Keep it simple

An airy sense of space and light characterises Scandinavian interiors. Slender, pared-down shapes, pale wood and furniture lifted on legs so you can see the floor are all good elements. Comfort is important, too, however. Choose pieces that add to both function and aesthetics.

Use natural materials

Introduce elements from nature to reflect an indoor/ outdoor style, from wreaths of evergreen branches hung over mantelpieces or on the front door, to bowls of pine cones or a vase filled with elegant twigs. Look for wood, stone, coir, linen, wool, hessian and felt.

Tactile appeal

Choosing beautiful natural materials gives an appealing mix of textures, from rough to smooth, furry to nobbly. Throw a sheepskin over the back of a chair, add a knitted throw, a sisal rug and a lamp with a turned-wood base.

Clever colours

Subtle colours predominate, from creams and beiges to browns, blacks and greys. The more rustic end of the Scandinavian palette – perfect for the festive season – adds in strong red and deep green.

Sparkling lights

Different types of lighting always help combat long, dark days and nights, but nothing too flashy or over the top. Choose real or electric candles, lanterns, string lights and more, but in warm, soft, white rather than garish colours to add to the sense of warmth and welcome during the festive season.

An array of twinkling lights Sparkle Lighting adorns this rustic table setting, www.sparkle.lighting

HOLIDAY CABINS

Our

Combining

GARDEN BUILDINGS

GLAMPING PODS

Our bespoke glamping pods are the perfect accommodation for getting back to nature. Turn key service available making them ready to enjoy straight away.

The team at Griﬃths Hire Shops would like to wish all their customers a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year

Keep your boiler operational for as long as possible with annual servicing. Not only will it keep your boiler running efﬁciently but keep everyone safe and maintain your manufacturers guarantee.

your service today and we will send you a reminder every year to schedule your next appointment.

Ethan Lee-Birch: Property professional with a Master Plan

Monks Estate and Letting Agents in Oswestry are proud to have Ethan Lee-Birch on their team. Now a qualiﬁed Member of the National Association of Estate Agents (MNAEA), Ethan has taken the next step in what promises to be an impressive career in property.

Monks are advocates of professional qualiﬁcations in both sales and lettings departments. Staff are encouraged to embrace the MNAEA and Member of the Association of Residential Lettings Agents (MARLA) qualiﬁcations which demonstrate the company and the individual’s knowledge and industry expertise. Members must complete training and pass relevant exams, commit to continuous learning, and adhere to the association’s code of conduct.

thrives on interacting with clients and brings fresh energy and positivity to the Monks oﬃce.

Modern estate agency relies on excellent images and Ethan enjoys photographing homes. He is appreciative of the investment Monks has made in cutting-edge technology: “Tools like the Giraffe 360° camera mean we can capture the essence of a property and share it smartly with potential buyers”.

Ethan is mindful of the age distribution of his clients in Oswestry. He understands the need to balance fresh, dynamic communications with the expectations of more traditional buyers.

He recalls a recent sale he handled for a more mature couple who, despite the disappointment of multiple sales falling through over a prolonged period, coupled with ill health, had remained positive and “were an absolute pleasure to work with”. Ethan’s ability to connect with his clients, keeping things in perspective and maintaining open communication, ensured that the sale was ﬁnally successful.

Based in Monks’ oﬃce on Church Street, Ethan is always ready to assist clients, whether they are buying, selling, or letting their property, and can be reached at 01691 674 567.

Born and raised in Oswestry, Ethan is deeply connected to the area and has ambitious plans. His natural people skills have made him a standout professional in Oswestry’s busy property market. He Transform

living space WITH A STUNNING NEW FIREPLACE

Whether

or ﬁnd

£165,000

Upgraded Cottage

Cilmeri, Llangynog

A beautifully presented detached cottage which has been tastefully upgraded by the sellers to offer spacious and characterful accommodation. The cottage has a wealth of character with exposed ceiling and wall beams, beautiful views of the nearby Berwyn Mountains and is set back from the road offering ample parking.

In brief the accommodation affords entrance hall with utility and storage area, open plan living/dining room, newly fitted kitchen, shower room and ground floor bedroom. Staircase to first floor bedroom, second staircase to a further two bedrooms, family bathroom and spacious landing. Externally there is a large workshop/ garage, ample parking and turning area, piggery, spacious gardens and decking area capturing the beautiful views.

OIRO £450,000. For viewings call Roger Parry & Partners on 01691 655 334 or email oswestry@rogerparry.net

Impressive Home

Kilnside, Oswestry

With its well thought out design – perfect for today’s modern lifestyle, the property sits in an enviable position on this exclusive development of just three contemporary homes. Breath-taking views to the rear over adjoining countryside and hills can be enjoyed from the full width sun terrace and first floor glazed balconies from the Principal and Guest suites.

The most wonderful open plan Living/Dining/Kitchen family room across the whole of the Ground Floor with twin bi-folds leading onto the garden, ideal for outdoor dining and entertaining, contemporary Kitchen with appliances, Lounge with feature log burner, Family Room/ Bedroom 5, Utility and Shower/Cloaks. Principal and guest bedroom suites with feature full height ceilings with doors opening onto glazed balconies, 3 further double bedrooms and family bathroom.

OIRO £720,000. For viewings call Monks on 01691 674 567 or email sales.oswestry@ monks.co.uk

Monks makes moves merrier

‘Tis the season to find your perfect home – let our expert team help

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

• Available 8am – 8pm Monday to Friday

• A free, no-obligation valuation and marketing appraisal

• Professional & qualified team with over 180 years of collective experience

• And most importantly competitive no sale – no charge commission

makes er

In the spotlight. Judy.

Judy is totally passionate about anything property related, with over 30 years of valued experience working across the fabulous Shropshire County.

Judy loves nothing more than embracing our ever changing property market and bringing people and property together and would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone in and around Oswestry for welcoming Monks to their beautiful market Town.

take their market

We look forward to moving you in 2025.

This stunning Georgian five-bedroom detached residence is set in resplendent wrap-around gardens, exhibiting a wide range of well-established trees and shrubs, with impressive views of Llanymynech’s Iron Age hillfort. ‘The Grange’ has been tastefully modernised, retaining the property’s decadence and character, whilst creating a home suitable for a large or growing family.

Rating: E , Tenure: Freehold, Council Tax Band: G

Interiors

by Stephanie Dhillon

Kitsch Kristmas

This whole retro inspired look is one of unashamed excessive joy in all things glitzy, and glamorous, and when better to indulge than at Christmas. From it’s 50’s inspired nostalgia with cutesy animals, niche jewel toned baubles, and tinsel galore, it sums up Christmases of the past and appeals to both those with retro and eclectic tastes. A bit of festive Kitsch can’t go amiss if only to make sure we aren’t taking ourselves too seriously. So, hang up those disco balls, set up that outdoor reindeer and overdo the tinsel this year!

Clockwise from top:

Beaded Cherry Bauble £9 from Heavenly Homes and Gardens www.heavenlyhomesandgardens.co.uk

Burford Handtufted Rug, Retro Pink 200 x 290 £499 from Cult Furniture www.cultfurniture.com

Eleanor Bowmer Fabulously Festive Santa Baby Mug £14 from Pure Table Top www.puretabletop.com

Flocked Rushden 6ft White Fir Artificial Christmas Tree with Coloured Lights £216.99 from www.wayfair.co.uk

Winter Walk Festive LED Lights £14.95 from Rex London www.rexlondon.com

Gold Two Tier Tinsel £18.95 from Idyll Home www.idyllhome.co.uk

Clockwise from right: Silver Mirror Ball Large, £46.99 from Gisela Graham London www.giselagraham.co.uk

Festive Needlepoint Cushion £36 from Bloom & Brew www.bloomandbrew.co.uk

Wall Mounted Copper Stag Head £21.95 from Melody Maison www.melodymaison.co.uk

Slow Riser Love Seat in Christmas Tree Clever Velvet £1115 from Loaf www.loaf.com

Reindeer Battery Christmas Figure £99.99 from Lights4Fun www.lights4fun.co.uk

December in the garden

by Graham Mitchell

How’s your seed shopping list progressing? Now is the perfect time to write down your priority purchases for 2025. You will have this year’s results still fresh in your mind. What did well, what failed to impress and what have you seen out and about that you simply must try?

If you wait and launch into a garden centre, you will be faced by hundreds of choices and get tempted by those beautiful photos on the front of the packets.AThat usually results in me going home without the one’s that I should have bought.

Those who read this column will remember that I was a bit underwhelmed by Mina lobata “Spanish Flag” aka Ipomoea lobata. Great little ﬂower but rather sparse. Since writing that, these vines exploded with colour giving me over

a month of delight. Just be aware that as with all Ipomoea the seeds are toxic. My next choice is a dwarf sweet pea for hanging baskets. This year I chose “Cupid” but there are other varieties available so I will order a mixed colour selection.

My staples for the allotment are Tomato Sweet Millions, plenty of Rocket, both wild and cultivated and Red Russian Kale. The latter is extremely resistant to all sorts of pests and continues to produce through the winter. New this year was an American Pole Bean “Kentucky Gold”. I’m deﬁnitely growing that again.

One veggie I will try again, is a cucumber “Crystal Apple”, Cucumis sativus. It produces short stubby and pale fruit, with tender skins and a great, almost sweet ﬂavour. For

some reason, probably the weather, my outdoor squashes and courgettes were very poor. I’ll be reconsidering where to site them.

I am a sucker for perennial geraniums and Geranium pratense “Splish Splash” is a real favourite. I spotted another one growing semi-wild and a little internet searching came up with Geranium wallichianum “Buxton’s Variety”. I have just got to ﬁnd a source for seeds now!

TAKING YOUR FIRST STEPS IN INVESTING

As we reach midlife and beyond, we start looking for ways to boost our savings and enjoy a comfortable future.

Investing can be a powerful tool in achieving this, but what about if you’re new to investing? Is it still worth it?

In most cases, the answer is yes. No matter what stage of life you’re at, investing can offer the opportunity to increase your nest egg.

Here, Craig Roberts from Belgrave Wincham, shares some straightforward tips to help you get started.

1. Start small

There’s no need to dive straight into complicated strategies. Start small, with an amount you’re comfortable with. Take a look at options like stocks and shares ISAs, which allow you to invest in a diverse selection of assets and see the potential growth of your investments over time without feeling overwhelmed.

2. Spread your risk

A key principle to remember in investing is diversiﬁcation, which essentially means not putting all your eggs in one basket. Investing in different types of assets (like stocks, bonds or savings, for example) reduces the risk of losing money if one area underperforms. For newcomers, balanced funds that automatically spread your money across different areas can be a great starting point.

3. Use tax-eﬃcient accounts

Even as an investing beginner, you can take advantage of tax-eﬃcient accounts like ISAs or pensions. These accounts let your investments grow without being taxed, helping you get more out of your money. For example, ISAs allow tax-free growth, and pensions offer tax relief on your contributions.

3. Team up with an expert

An independent ﬁnancial adviser can help make sense of it all if investing feels unfamiliar or complex. They’re there to help map out a plan that suits where you are in life and simplify your choices so you can feel conﬁdent that your money is growing in line with your goals.

If you’d like to ﬁnd out more, call Belgrave Wincham on 01691 886554 for a friendly noobligation chat.

with GHP Legal’s

Nicole Kukla

How can I provide for my new wife when I die, without depriving my children?

Q: I have remarried but my children are from my first marriage and my new wife has children from her previous marriage. How can I make sure that only my own children benefit from my estate if I die before my wife, and still ensure that she is sufficiently provided for during her lifetime.

A: Any previous Will you had automatically became void when you remarried. If you fail to make a new Will before you pass away, the rules of intestacy will apply, meaning your new wife will benefit from the first £322,000 of your assets and half of anything above this amount. If she then died leaving a Will benefiting her children, or died without a Will, it is likely that her family would benefit and your children would receive nothing from her estate, including the assets she received from you.

If you make a new Will, you could include a trust giving your wife the right to live within your home until she passes away, providing she can maintain the property independently. Upon her passing, the trust will end and your share of the property would pass to your children. This is called a life interest trust. Generally, your wife would be entitled to any income from the property during her lifetime, but your children would ultimately beneﬁt from the capital upon her death.

Another option is a right of occupation trust, which would end at a speciﬁed juncture, i.e. if your wife remarried, cohabited or was unable to continue living in your property, because for example she needed to live in a care home. On the trust ending, your children would then beneﬁt from the capital.

You could also leave a speciﬁed share of any assets you don’t hold jointly with your wife to support her after you pass away and leave the rest to your children. Leaving insuﬃcient support for your wife could lead to a claim against your estate.

This question has been answered by Nicole Kukla, a paralegal 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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PUZZ l E P ag E

CryPtiC Crossword

Across

1. Rubbish about high hammer (6)

4. Duff copper’s thin lead hope (8)

9. Pen with stone in a restaurant (6)

10. Guess orc treated afflictions (8)

12. Actor cast in haste given artless part (8)

13. Bypass in developed region (6)

15. Message from Latino tellers? (4)

16. A philosopher attached to a squad (7)

20. Cut, cut and cut a vegetable (7)

21. A fashionable - but backward - girl (4)

25. Fruit (orchard’s premier variety) (6)

26. A banker’s dishevelled state (8)

28. Composer butchers attacked! (8)

29. Girl cross with the last addition (6)

30. Burdened mule bred a different way (8)

31. Island tolerated by hot resident (6)

Solution S

Down

1. Asians live amongst giants (8)

2. Fresh cress pet regards (8)

3. Angel half-seen with broken harp (6)

5. Something hard to shake (4)

6. Fish tacos initially eaten by an operator (8)

7. Drink, for example, over medal (6)

8. Broken slate’s adornment (6)

11. Bother, a lady gained weight! (7)

14. Dates in disarray made dirty (7)

17. Real story containing large initial noun written up (8)

18. Eccentric nineties physicist (8)

19. Pepper jar not closed by a mate upended (8)

22. Spoilt loser after first minute scrap (6)

23. Chaos might have disheartened modern leader (6)

24. Expert not dealt with quickly (6)

27. Redhead put in charge for nothing (4)

xmas

films

1. Danger In The Manger, and Dude, Where’s My Donkey are the subtitles of the second and third in a series of Christmas films that began with which 2009 film?

2. Which famous actor voices six different characters and is the narrator in the film The Polar Express?

3. Which real-life department store features in the film Miracle On 34th Street, when it hires a Santa to work in the store who later claims to be the real Santa?

4. Who starred as Clark Griswold in film National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation?

5. In the film Love Actually, when the Prime Minister, played by Hugh Grant, is trying to find the home of his former assistant, but knocks on the wrong door, he ends up singing which Christmas carol to a group of children?

6. In which 1996 Christmas film does Arnold Schwarzenegger play a character who is desperately trying to get a Turbo-Man action figure for his son for Christmas?

7. Which famous person has a cameo role in the film Home Alone 2: Lost In New York, playing himself as he gives the main character directions inside the Plaza Hotel that he owns?

8. Who played Santa Claus in the films Arthur Christmas and Get Santa?

9. What is the name of the character played by Will Ferrell in the film Elf?

10. The film It’s A Wonderful Life ends with the residents of Bedford Falls singing what song?

6. Jingle All The Way, 7. Donald Trump, 8. Jim Broadbent, 9. Buddy, 10. Auld Lang Syne

King

Ballast, 14 Stained, 17 Tangible, 18 Einstein, 19 Jalapeno, 22 Morsel, 23 Mayhem, 24 Pronto, 27 Free. quiz 1. Nativity, 2. Tom Hanks, 3. Macy’s,

26 Nebraska, 28 Schubert, 29 Annexe, 30 Lumbered, 31 Borneo. Down: 1 Tibetans, 2 Respects, 3 Seraph, 5 Rock, 6 Sturgeon, 7 Eggnog, 8 Tassel,

4 Prospect, 9 Bistro, 10 Scourges, 12 Thespian, 13 Ignore, 15 Note, 16 Platoon, 20 Parsnip, 21 Nina, 25 Orange,

crossword

Across:

Thrash,

4. Chevy Chase,

Good

Wenceslas,

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