Oswestry Life June 2024

to Oswestry Life Welcome

Back in the day, businesses advertised in the Yellow Pages and the papers. But over time, the Internet and magazines have changed that.

When you sit down for a coffee break in your favourite spot and open the shiny cover of Oswestry Life to read the community stories and local info, you should feel connected. You’re plugging in to the local people, whether it’s online or with a hard copy in hand.

Printed books still outsell e-books, so by picking up a copy, reading the stories and entering the competitions, you’re supporting local businesses and events without even realising.

Thanks for reading and see you next month!

Victoria McKenna EDITOR

to

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, Nicola Manford, Andrew Willson, Michael Hudson

Accounts and Distribution info@oswestrylife.co.uk Advertising info@oswestrylife.co.uk

Fighting fit for Hope House fundraiser

A sporty Oswestry dad has swapped the football pitch for the boxing ring and raised £3,710 for Hope House children’s hospice.

Boxing novice Richard WilliamsCooke, trained for three months, lost two and half stone, and raised thousands of pounds to take part in a white collar boxing event last March.

The father of two says the challenge was an incentive to lose weight as well as raise money for a local charity that means a lot to him. “I watched a friend take part in a charity boxing match two years ago, and thought it would a great opportunity to get in shape.

“I’ve always loved sport, especially football, but had never tried boxing. I threw myself into it, training every day and giving up alcohol. I was delighted to get fit, lose weight, and raise money for a wonderful charity.

“I know staff who work at Hope House, and families who have used their services, so I knew first-hand how important fundraising is to support local families who have children with life-threatening conditions.”

The boxing match, organized by Ultra White Collar Boxing (UWCB) took place at The Buttermarket, in

Shrewsbury with more than 1,000 spectators. As well as winning his fight in two rounds, Richard also won the Top Fundraiser award for his phenomenal efforts in finding sponsorship.

“I was aiming to raise £2,000 so was really happy to get sponsorship of more than £3,700, from friends, family and four local business sponsors: Urban Grill House, S Owen and Sons, Nicholas Llewelyn barbers and Saxon Homecare,” he said.

Former footballer Richard has played with, coached and managed local teams and has received valuable backing from the sporting community. “I played football from when I was young through to my mid 30s, and have coached football teams in Oswestry and Wrexham.

Pub takes three awards

Duncan Borrowman and Grace Goodlad, owners of The Bailey Head in Oswestry, have been presented with the Shrewsbury and West Shropshire CAMRA Pub of the Year, Market Towns Pub of the Year and Cider Pub of the Year awards.

Duncan said, “We would like to thank our staff, customers and CAMRA for making this happen.”

Grace said, “Winning these awards from the premier consumer organisation is a great honour.”

I’ve had so much support from many people. Maybe they just wanted to see me being punched in the face!” he laughed.

Richard relished the entire experience and is looking at training for another boxing match in November with the training regime beginning after the summer holidays.

Area fundraiser Vicky Bradbeer said, “Richard’s commitment to training and raising sponsorship was just brilliant. He understands how vital fundraising is to providing specialist nursing care and support to families who need our respite, crisis and endof-life care. Thank you, Richard.”

Read more about Richard’s journey to get fighting fit to fundraise and sponsor him at https://www. hopehouse.org.uk/boxing-fundraiser

Pictured right: Pub owners Duncan Borrowman and Grace Goodlad, receiving the Stewart Fraser Shield and the certificates for the three awards from CAMRA Branch Chair Dave Ricketts.

Three Peaks Challenge in support of mental health charity

A woman from Oswestry is taking on her toughest challenge yet in support of mental health charity Mind.

Lucie Bromley, from Oswestry is taking on the challenge of walking 24 miles to include the three peaks of Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough in the Yorkshire Dales on Saturday 1 June.

Lucie, who is an estate agent at the Oswestry branch of Roger Parry & Partners said, “As this personal challenge is the hardest I have set for myself I felt that this is the one to raise money and awareness for Mind Charity and mental health.

“The acknowledgement of mental health problems is sometimes still deemed to be shameful and I would like to try and change that. Everyone experiencing a mental health problem should get the support and respect they deserve, and the charity Mind can help with this.”

You can support Lucie by donating on her Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/page/luciebromley-1711358185236

Fashion fundraiser a success

Back in April, the Vyrnwy Nursing Home held a fundraiser at The Wynnstay Hotel and in collaboration with fashion boutique owner, Kathy Gittins. They have raised an amazing £2360 for their residents’ comfort fund. This allows the staff to provide the residents with more trips like going to the beach, cinema, theatre, zoo. It also brings more entertainment to the home.

Home Manager, Jennifer Greenwood says, “I just want to thank everyone who took part in this amazing event and for being so generous in their donations, also Kathy Gittins for organising this event for the home. The evening was a huge success and thoroughly enjoyed by all.”

Right: Kathy Gittins & Jennifer Greenwood

Lucie Bromley

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

Forever After

Add a splash of luxury to your special day with our premade / bespoke fascinators and corsages. Oswestry Indoor Market Tel: 07553444278

Socials: @ForeverAfterOswestry

The Happiness Club

Katie Millard Hypnotherapy

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

Make A Wish Parties

Spread a little stardust with a character appearance at your party. Packages include party games, craft activities, dancing and more.

Princess/Superhero/Barbie/Fairy/Unicorn 07908 508520

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

Time Invaders

Oswestry’s Comic Shop a treasure trove of comics, annuals, funkopops, sci-fi, collectable models. Dog friendly & all at 23 Cross Street SY112NF Tel 07946550916 or find us on FB, Instagram, TikTok @timeinvaders23

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

Fully trained carpet and upholstery technician covering Oswestry, Wrexham and Shrewsbury.

Carpet and Upholstery cleaning for your domestic and commercial spaces. Tackling tough stains and odours using an eco-friendly process. Perfect for end of tenancy cleans and holiday lets

A fully insured and trusted local business with a tailored service to suit your needs/ time schedule

www.carpetfreshshropshire.co.uk info@carpetfreshshropshire.co.uk

Contact 07581 270 228

MAYOR’S MINUTES

Meet the new Mayor Cllr Mike Isherwood

I am delighted to be Oswestry’s mayor for the forthcoming year, a privilege few get to experience and I have been looking forward to it for a long time.  I follow Cllr Olly Rose who has represented the people of Oswestry with dignity and practicality; literally getting her hands dirty with the Oswestry In Bloom team and contributing enormously to the victory in the national awards last year.

My family moved to Oswestry when I was eight years old and I have been a proud Oswestrian ever since.  I love the town’s rich heritage, its position as a border town, the long tradition of its street and indoor markets, and the modern blend of Oswestry folk with our newer residents – from around the UK and well beyond – who have all enriched our local culture and community.  This is another Oswestry trait: community.  We care about each other.

I am very lucky to have a wonderful and supportive family who have put up with my ‘council things’ for many years, never failing to remind me of the meanings of ‘perspective’ and ‘priorities’.  Until recently, my wife and I ran Shlurp on Church Street, but I am now pursuing a new career in teaching because another of my passions is helping young people get the best start in life.

My hope for my mayoral year is that I can contribute to the evolving community I will be representing, through championing and raising money for the many groups and individuals who volunteer so much time and energy to making life better for others.  I want to promote Oswestry to the wider world as the amazing place we are lucky enough to call home and most of all, I hope to meet as many of you as possible along the way, so please say hello if you see me out and about.

ONE LAST RIDE!

Over the years, Bob Martin from Shrewsbury has been the driving force in raising over £20,000 for a number of different charities by way of four-cycle rides, four auction nights and even a parachute jump.  Having raised an incredible amount, Bob and his friends and family decided to hang up their cycling shoes, put away their auction paddles and retire from fundraising after their dear friend, Adrian Hill (Ade), sadly passed away last year.

Ade had been born with one kidney and at just 46 years old, faced a life on dialysis when it failed.  Unbelievably, his wife Nicki, was discovered to be a match and was able to donate one of her kidneys. Ade and Nicki set out to raise as much money as possible for Kidney Care UK who had supported them during these difficult times and Bob and his cycling friends decided to use their cycle rides to support their fundraising.

be joining the ride in Whittington to cycle the final five miles in memory of their Uncle Ade.

One Last Ride will be raising monies for Kidney Care UK. For over 40 years, the charity has been providing direct support for kidney patients and working hard to improve health and care services across the UK. With no government funding, it is your donations alone that improves life for kidney patients.

For over 40 years, the charity has been providing direct support for kidney patients and working hard to improve health and care services across the UK.

On 2 June 2023, aged just 54 years old, Ade passed away and without hesitation it was decided there would be one last ride in his memory. Being an avid Liverpool fan, the ride will start at his beloved Anfield on 8 June and will see a team of 12 riders, made up of Ade’s friends and family, cycle to his hometown, Oswestry. Not wanting to be left out, six children will

There are also opportunities for local businesses to get involved by sponsoring the support crew, in return having their business logo or name on the van.

If you would like to support the ride you can donate at www.justgiving.com/ page/bob-martin-2024. Any donations, big or small will make a huge difference for some many kidney patients.

Children - Back left: Erin Harris, Rhys Williams-Cooke, Ebony Pearce. Front left: Amber Leonard, Louie Leonard and Ben Edwards Adults - Back left: Jeanette Pierpoint, Lynsey Kilvert, Ryan Leonard, Fraser Leonard, Bob Martain, Phil McEwan. Front left: Tina Carter, John Clarke, Lily Bumford, Justine McEwan

Hope House superstore opens

Hope House children’s hospices new Oswestry superstore has officially opened its doors, welcoming queues of eager bargain-hunters to the spacious new shop.

The new flagship shop on Smithfield Street was opened on Monday 29 April and is the charity’s biggest yet. The opening day attracted a throng of shoppers, eager for pre-loved clothing, accessories and furniture. Tills rang non-stop, with takings for the day expected to reach an impressive £5,000.

A special ribbon cutting ceremony was held with seven-year-old Amelia Thompson and her mum Charlotte, who receives care at Hope House, Wrexham AFC captain Luke Young as well as volunteers, staff and supporters all in attendance.

Hope House’s Head of Retail, Suzanne Cumming said, “I am so incredibly excited that our new flagship shop in Oswestry is open. This new store looks fantastic and gives us much more space to display our pre-loved and new goods including a furniture.

“We already have incredible support in Oswestry from people who bring us donations of stock and who shop with us, so it’s great to be able to welcome all our wonderful

supporters into our new shop.”

The charity, which provides vital care and support for local children with life-threatening conditions, has 15 shops across Shropshire, Cheshire, Mid and North Wales. Together they raise more than £1 million each year towards the £7.5 million needed to fund care for every child in need.

Amelia’s mum, Charlotte, said, “Hope House has been such a huge part of Amelia’s and our lives and it’s amazing to see this new shop.

“Hopefully this new shop will raise lots of money and make sure that families like ours can get to benefit from all the care and support in future.”

Wrexham AFC captain, who recently celebrated promotion with the club said it was an “honour” to be part of the shop opening, while his teammate and Hope House ambassador Ollie Palmer, also visited the shop ahead of opening to meet with staff and volunteers and make a donation of tracksuits from his design label WXM1864 Clothing.

Oswestry shop

Left: Hope House Area Manager Lindy Welch-Smart, Head of Retail Suzanne Cumming, Wrexham FC’s Luke Young, Hope House Hippo and Amelia Thompson. Below: Ollie Palmer donates tracksuits.

volunteers Mary Trow and Irene Edwards were enjoying visiting as shoppers for the day. “The new shop is brilliant. We’ve needed more space for a long time, so it’s wonderful to have the room for more stock and furniture. We love working as volunteers,” Mary said.

Friends Jessie Miller, Bridie Dunbabin and Elin Humphreys, from Oswestry, discovered a fabulous haul of women’s and children’s clothes.

“I didn’t think I’d need a basket, but I do! It’s really colourful with some great stock. We’re very impressed,” said Bridie.

Loretta Parry was there with grandson Caleb Jones and Gillian Hayes. Loretta and Gillian know the importance of raising funds for Hope House children’s hospice.

“Both of our families have needed the help of Hope House in the past and know how vital the hospice’s support and counselling services are. We were keen to support this wonderful charity. We’ve bought some tops, and loved the goodie bags. The shop is lovely,” Loretta explained.

If you would like to donate your pre-loved furniture or other items you can drop them off at the donation station to the rear of the shop during opening hours or book a furniture collection from your home at www. hopehouse.org.uk/furniture.

If you would like to join the family of volunteers, visit hopehouse.org. uk/volunteer or call the retail team on 01691 672607.

Award winning alternative aesthetic skin practitioner opens clinic in Oswestry

by Emma Roberts

Tucked away inside the very impressive Hi-Style hair salon in Church Street OSWESTRY (very close to the exquisitely refurbished Wynnstay Hotel) you will find Improve Your Skin aesthetic clinic headed by the experienced, extremely warm and personable awardwinning skin practitioner Denise Evans.

Denise has over 35 years experience as a skin specialist and was trained in Harley Street London and thankfully for anyone nearby—despite being courted by Harvey Nichols—she has arrived in Oswestry and decided to call it home to her flourishing business.

I was introduced to her by a friend, as at 59 years old I felt like the time was right to start thinking about a possible face lift and my friend said “go and see Denise first”.

Im so glad I did … Denise has a prescriptive approach to each person who visits her. For one person she might feel Laser therapy is the secret to their facial restoration (she has one of the most expensive ‘medical grade’ laser light therapy machines in the country) for another it might be Green Peel treatments (research the treatments by Dr Med. Christine Schrammer, whose results so inspired Denise) alongside pioneering light therapy. Other clients may be prescribed a touch of botox and minimal fillers, another given advice on rehydrating and various bespoke products. For me it was an interesting prescription which gave quick and very successful results. I’ve never thought about light therapy, but after three Green Peel treatments followed by a 25 minute light therapy, it seemed to regenerate any collagen that was left in my ageing face and bring it back to life. I’d had a dabble here and there with fillers and botox but Denise gently and tactfully suggested we perhaps undo some of that work and look at peel treatments alongside light therapy to thoroughly prep my skin ensuring a good enough condition for her ‘thread lift treatment’ heralded as the ‘non surgical facelift’…

After a few weeks of ‘preparation’ I decided to go ahead with her facial threads treatment and was overjoyed with the results. It was an hour appointment and although I can describe it as ‘uncomfortable’, I took no time off work and recovered with minimal bruising … I was astounded by the results.

The country is overrun with so called ‘aesthetic practitioners’ but Denise is the real deal. Her 35 years experience shows immediately, she knows her stuff and is concerned (as I am) at the many aspiring business women who can walk into an ‘aesthetic’ centre and come out only days later apparently ‘trained’ to inject into your face!

The country is overrun with so called ‘aesthetic practitioners’ but Denise is the real deal. Her 35 years experience shows immediately

“I have seen far too many over-frozen and over-filled faces lately, and had to do too much correction work … Your face is so precious whatever age it is, please do your research before you place it in the hands of an aspiring aestheticnewcomer who’s just paid to be trained exchanging money for overnight qualifications, I have been achieving beautiful facial results for many decades and I can assess exactly what the best treatment is so you can look like the best version of you”, says Denise ...and do you know what... I believe her.

Denise’s consultation is so thorough you feel like she knows every inch of you by the end of it … she talks through every single treatment she offers and how she relies less and less on the present ‘go to’ botulinum and restylane and more on her own prescriptive treatments developed over decades of being ‘up close and personal’ to thousands of faces. The beauty of a visit to Denise is that you know she will reach into the plethora of treatments available to her and pick the ones that suit you … bespoke in other words …. for me it was undoing some past treatments and getting my face back to how it looked a good few years ago.

Not normally a particularly trusting person, I felt different around Denise - I trusted her implicitly. Her skin has a youthful glow and plumpness despite her years (over 60 apparently although you would never guess).

Treatments start from as little as £50 and procedures such as threads treatment can be up to £1000 but I would advise that every penny spent with her is worth it. If you’re seriously considering radical anti aging skin procedures you could save yourself the misery and trauma not to mention the £15000 price tag that comes with a UK facelift with a few visits to Denise right here in Oswestry, and achieve great results … trust me I did it.

Welcome to Improve Your Skin, Oswestry, founded by Denise Evans. At Improve Your Skin, we strive to bring you the latest and the most advanced skincare treatments.

TREATMENTS

❋ Omnilux Revive Plus Light Therapy

❋ Dr Med. Christine Schrammer’s Green Peels

❋ Bio Filler (your own natural filler)

❋ Dermal Fillers

❋ PDO Cog Threat face lift

❋ Radio Frequency/ Micro-Needling lift

TREATMENTS

❋ Anti- Wrinkle injections

❋ Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF)

Regenerative Skin Treatments

❋ Lumi Eyes

❋ Tattoo Removal ❋ Laser Skin Rejuvenation

❋ Profhilo Treatments

Do your Denim Different

Denim looks good on everyone and the style options available this season mean we all get a look in. Whether it’s a different colour or cut, you can find a unique look to fit your personality. Have fun with it because denim can be glamorous too.

Right: Blouson Sleeve Denim Midi Dress £55, www.very.co.uk

Ecru Denim Jumpsuit £66, www.next.co.uk

Blue Denim Crop Trophy

£50, www.riverisland.com

Above: Blue Mid Rise Drawstring Wide Leg Jeans £40, www.riverisland.com

Below: Loells Denim Sandals £95, www.dunelondon.com

Orange Plait Pocket Denim Jacket £70, www.oliverbonas.com

www.riverisland.com

Above:

Jacket

Above:

Right: Blue Lace Hem Crop Denim Shirt £45,

Girls’ football scholarship kicks off

A new course aimed specifically at girls looking for a career in football will be kicking off at North Shropshire College in a unique partnership with The New Saints FC Foundation.

The Girls’ Football Scholarship, which will start in September, offers a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport for 16 to19 year olds chasing a career as a professional footballer, coach, referee or physiotherapist.

The course will be run in partnership with The New Saints FC through the football club’s charity, TNS FC Foundation. It follows the highly successful boys’ version of the programme which has been running for 20 years and has produced hundreds of professional footballers.

The partnership with The New Saints FC will give students access to two to three training sessions per week, a UEFA qualified coach and the experience of working and even playing alongside the TNS FC teams.

Head of women and girls’ football at The New Saints FC, Shauna Duffy, explained that the new course would focus purely on football rather than a wide range of sports and was aimed at girls with their sights firmly set on a football career.

But, she said, the girls’ scholarship programme would have a wider emphasis on all football careers as

compared to the equivalent boys’ course which was very much focused on becoming a professional player.

“We have to accept that the women’s game is not as far forward and there are not as many opportunities to play full time. So, this scholarship offers lots of different ways of pursuing a full-time career in football not just as a professional player but as a coach or a referee or a physio.

“The huge bonus to this scholarship is the chance to work alongside football professionals and get real, practical experience in all aspects of the football world,” she said.

The programme will be based at North Shropshire College’s Oswestry campus led by Marie Davis.

She said: “We are extremely excited to continue our longstanding work with TNS academy and look forward to welcoming and developing the TNS girls’ scholarship, with Shauna support and enthusiasm, the girls programme will no doubt go from strength to strength.

Further details on the course and how to apply are available at https://hlnsc.ac.uk/hlnsc-courses/sport-tnsfootball-scholarship-level-3/ or by emailing Marie Davis at m.davis@hlnsc.ac.uk or info@nsc.ac.uk

The New Saints FC players Millie Evans (left) and Kiera Tomlinson with details of the scholarship programme

Charity Fundraising Event

A NIGHT OF MUSIC

VENUE: Holroyd Community Theatre, SY10 7SZ £12 Tickets

TIME: 7.30pm, Doors 6.45pm

Students Win Gold for 2024 Paris Olympics

Derwen College is proud to have brought students together to participate in the 2024 National Skills Live Competition. Students took part in creative challenges with the theme of ‘Paris Olympic Games 2024,’ and competed across the pathways of Horticulture, Hospitality, Performing Arts, and Retail and Enterprise.

After a vigorous selection process which garnered entries from across England and Wales, successful entrants were invited to compete in person in Derwen College’s purposebuilt facilities.

Jennifer Fawcett-Jones oversaw the organisation of the event, believing that “competitions are always a great way to motivate learners and further consolidate their knowledge, skills and behaviour. Importantly, competing against fellow learners from other specialist colleges provides a platform to demonstrate their great skills and dedication.”

David Thompson-Pearce, who helped to coordinate the Hospitality table laying competition said, “Watching

the whole process unfold and come to life has been a rewarding experience. The students should be incredibly proud of the work they’ve put in, from conceiving their creative visions months ago to bringing them to life today. It is especially vital that we are able to host events like these in settings like the Orangery Restaurant, where students can feel truly immersed in an authentic vocational environment.”

He added, “It has been a privilege to meet and share ideas with the representatives of colleges from all over the country. Today we’ve been able to speak and network with people from Sunderland, South Wales, and everywhere in between.”

Students Ruby, Josh and Paige, from Queen Alexandra College, won gold in the Retail and Enterprise visual merchandising competition. Among their range of fantastically

Left: Zak from Coleg Elidyr meticulously laying his Parisian table, featuring a model he created of the Arc de Triomphe and his French beret.

Below, left: Triumphant students from Landmarks Specialist College celebrate their close-cut victory in the group dance competition.

presented wares, from nutritional products for athletes to rainbowcoloured leisure wear, judges Sharon Jones and ex-student Mark Williams deemed that the winning stall “produced stunning merchandise in a well thought out display, with a team that supported each other wonderfully.”

Across campus, the Horticulture competition took place under the eaves of our Garden Centre greenhouses. Before the students set to work, adjudicator Paul Moss said, “I’m excited to see what ideas the students have to represent the themes and colours of the Olympic Games.” From intricately woven wreaths in the shape of the Olympic rings, to a miniature Louvre centrepiece, each entry demonstrated a unique and inventive vision.

James and Oliver were delighted to have represented one of Derwen College’s teams, “We’re so proud that all our work has paid off - we’ve created the Mona Lisa of planters!”

In the Student Union hall at Derwen College, students were able to showcase their talents in a variety of solo and group dance exhibitions. It was a tough competition, with Landmarks College winning the group category by only one point. Judges commented, “It was exciting! Great timing! A perfect example of a team: great facial expressions and so much talent!”

The organising team at Derwen college would like to say a big thank you to everybody who travelled here to take part and helped to make the experience so special. If it wasn’t for the effort of students and staff from Landmarks Specialist College, ESPA College, Queen Alexandra College, and Coleg Elidyr, today’s success would not have been possible.

Focus on… towpath walks

through the lens of Graham Mitchell

As summer arrives what better place to stretch our legs than along our fantastic canals, taking in the sights, wildlife and watching the colourful narrowboats slide by.

OF THE MONTH

RRR (15)

AvAilAble to streAm on netflix or buy on DvD

Yes, it’s 3 hours long, subtitled, and features multiple instances of men fighting CGI tigers, but this 2022 Indian box-office-breaking Oscar winning film is like nothing else you’ve seen before.

The plot sees 1920s Raj era India from two different viewpoints. A young girl is kidnapped from her village by chief villain, Raj Governor Buxton (the late Ray Stevenson), and his wife, prompting the villagers to send a guardian to bring her back. Buxton’s wife enlists a sympathetic Indian Police Officer to track down the guardian and so begins a cat and mouse thriller where both leads play the cat and the mouse at various points.

There are twists and turns aplenty, but watching RRR for the plot is like watching Titanic for the portholes, this is not a film about subtlety, it’s all about sheer spectacle. The joyfully OTT set pieces on show here deliver the kind of openmouthed delight that will have you feeling like a child again. Whether it’s a truck full of wild animals attacking a Raj party, an astonishing dance number, or our ‘heroes’ rescuing a child from underneath a collapsing bridge, which is also on fire.

Time and time again this film goes bigger, more cartoonish, and more fun than you can imagine. Simultaneously played with a straight face and a knowing wink, faster and furiouser than Fast & Furious, with a mission more impossible than Mission Impossible, it’s Indiana Jones crossed with The Departed and even more fun than any of that suggests. Best watched in two halves with a chai break in the middle, RRR is a rip roaring swashbuckling future classic.

By Michael Hudson

Win Tickets to The TempesT aT

Whi TT ingTon CasT le

Shakespeare’s The Tempest is coming to Whittington Castle on 16 June 2024. A comedy about magic, betrayal, revenge and family, the play is a classic and comes with the usual Shakespearean plot twists we know and love. Oswestry Life has a pair of tickets to be won in this exciting competition for a fabulous evening out.

Enjoy a summers evening of outdoor theatre as the Festival Players Theatre Company brings the shipwreck tale to the stunning grounds of Whittington Castle. Pack a picnic and bring a deckchair to settle in for the show.

You can purchase tickets for the event at www.whittingtoncastle.co.uk/event/festivalplayers-the-tempest/

For your chance to win a pair of tickets to this special evening, send us a message with the words ‘The Tempest’ and your contact details via the Oswestry Life Facebook page.

Alternatively, you can enter the competition online at www.oswestry.life. Competition will be drawn on Monday 10 June 2024.

Terms & Conditions: 1. The prize consists of one pair of outdoor theatre tickets which can be used only on the day. 2. Prize is non-transferrable. 3. No prize or cash alternative. 4. By entering you give permission for your details to be passed onto the promoters.

Wednesday Night Is Film Night in Oswestry

Oswestry Film Society now has screenings at the Hermon Chapel Arts Centre, Chapel St, Oswestry, SY11 1LF. It’s fully accessible with a licensed cafe-bar.

Wed 5 June: PRIDE (15) - poignant British true-life comedy-drama to coincide with Oswestry’s first Pride Festival, and to mark forty years since the Miners’ Strike.

Wed 19 June: THE FRONT RUNNER (15) - the trial by media and subsequent downfall of a “do as I say, and not as I do” politician.

Films start 7.30pm. Tickets £8. More details and info via www.oswestryfilmsociety.com.

Oswestry Green Day offers

advice & shopping

Oswestry’s first Green Day will take place on Saturday 15 June from 10am to 2pm in Oswestry town centre. This free event will focus on the environment, sustainability and biodiversity.

Expert advice on wildlife, gardening, composting, creating wildflower meadows and reusing and recycling will be available from stands on the Bailey Head and Cross Street. Eco friendly products will be on sale, such as accessories, homeware and jewellery made from reclaimed materials, as well as organic and vegan food.

The Marches Energy Agency will be on hand to provide information on energy efficiency, home insulation, grant schemes and sample energy saving devices, along with Shropshire Council’s Affordable Warmth Energy Efficiency Team.

Oswestry Beekeepers will have a demonstration beehive and local honey for sale, while eco-friendly businesses will promote buying local and using refills to cut down on packaging and waste. Shropshire Wildlife Trust have helpful information on wildlife-friendly gardening and local nurseries will be selling insect-friendly plants.

In addition, there will be hands-on demonstrations on how to repair inner tubes, make swift nesting boxes and repair garments, along with interactive games and children’s activities.

Away from the market area, “With Love From” will have a pop-up shop and workshops in the Memorial Hall and Oswestry In Bloom will have a plant swap and refreshments at the Willow Garden opposite the Library.  Green Day is being organised by Oswestry Town Council and Oswestry in Bloom.

Natalie Bainbridge, Chair of Oswestry In Bloom said, “We envisage Oswestry’s Green Day being an informative, interactive, entertaining day for all the family and, above all, fun.” Cllr Olly Rose, who represented Oswestry Town Council for Oswestry In Bloom, added that “Oswestry Town Council is really pleased to support this event to celebrate all of the great initiatives in our town to protect and improve the environment.”

Come along to explore changes to daily living that may help to protect the environment and could save money.

Get active with books on pursuits to enjoy in the great outdoors.

The Little Book for Wild Swimmers by Laura Silverman

Whether you’ve already taken the plunge or simply want to dip in a toe, this book gives you all you need to reconnect with your wild side, from how to plan safe swims to taking the perfect underwater photo.

Best Day Walks Great Britain by Lonely Planet

Discover what the country has to offer in this comprehensive guide – cross misty moors, hike wild landscapes, and explore the highlands. Get into the heart of Great Britain and begin your journey now.

Camping: Explore the Great Outdoors with Family and Friends by Don Philpott

A practical and inspirational guide to camping, which includes a guide to all the National Trust’s sites. It’s about getting outside and enjoying the Great British outdoors, whether you want to do it under canvas or in a glamorous yurt.

Essential Bushcraft by Ray Mears

Ray Mears is well-known to millions of TV viewers through his acclaimed series Tracks, Ray Mears World of Survival and Extreme Survival. This handy portable compendium is an invaluable companion on any expedition and is packed with essential wilderness techniques and vital survival skills from around the world.

Natalie Bainbridge & Cllr Olly Rose

D-Day 80

Picnic

in the Park

2024 marks the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings on the beaches of Normandy which took place on 6 June 1944. It proved to be a turning point in the Second World War which led to the retaking of Europe by the Allied Forces.

8 June 2024

12noon to 4pm in Cae Glas Park, Free event with small charge for Merry-GoRound

The Oswestry Branch of the Royal British Legion and Oswestry Town Council will be marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day with a special community event in Cae Glas Park on Saturday 8 June, 12noon to 4pm.

After a service of remembrance and reflection, there will be a host of free 1940s-themed activities for the family to enjoy. These include free displays, arts and crafts activities, live music from Porthywaen Silver Band and Vera Lynn tribute, theatre performances by the Attfield Theatre Group, vintage vehicles, vintage Merry-Go-Round, lawn games, stalls, refreshments and more.

D-Day facts and significance

Following the evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940, Britain was engaged in a desperate, intensive defence of its land by sea and air power and would be the only European nation to remain free throughout the war.

The Allies were determined to commence a second front in Europe, with the aim of liberating Europe and totally defeating the Nazi enemy. After great deliberation, Operation Overlord, code name for the Battle of Normandy, was born and intensive training of the Allied Forces began in earnest.

The starting point for the invasion task force was the south coast of England and the destination was the Normandy coast of France. The plan was to have a massive seaborne assault on selected parts of this coast. Each of the five chosen landing beaches were named and a detailed assault plan was worked out for each, shown in the diagram.

From west to east, these were Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword. Utah and Omaha beaches were attacked by US forces, Gold and Sword by the British and Juno by the Canadians.

However, before the sea landings could begin, an airborne assault by parachutists and gliders carrying infantry was required to secure the eastern and western perimeters of the beaches assault zone. This began in the very early hours of 6 June. After heavy fighting and great loss of life, all the beaches were in Allied control by the end of that day.

The D-Day Landings were a crucial first step in pushing back the Nazi enemy and pivotal in the final defeat of Germany. On 7 May 1945, the German Third Reich surrendered unconditionally, a day known as Victory in Europe Day (VE Day).

Neil Lawrenson, Chair of the Oswestry RBL Branch says, “We will come together on the 80th anniversary in the spirit of remembrance, reflection and celebration to pay tribute to all those who fought for our freedom so courageously at Normandy. Our nation is forever in their debt.”

D-Day 80 Picnic in the Park is free to attend, and everyone is welcome.

Pack a picnic and join forces personnel, veterans, cadets, historians and entertainers to commemorate this historic event.

Events

Oswestry Community Games

Sunday 9 June 2024 11am – 4pm, Cae Glas Park

The annual Oswestry Community Games takes place on Sunday 9 June, in Cae Glas Park from 11am – 4pm. It promises to be yet another successful day with sport, music crafts and dance from diverse local organisations providing free ‘Give it a go’ sessions. Organisers anticipate over 1000 people of all ages will attend throughout the day. We particularly welcome newcomers Swim with Style, The Moon Sisters - Yoga, Crafty Knitters, Shrewsbury and Telford NHS and Netball - Leagues4U. The hope is that our visitors will try out a new activity and take it up afterwards.

James Manford, Lead Organiser says, “I am pleased to say that the excitement is reaching an ultimate high as final preparations are starting to come into place for this year’s event. It is a delight to have the Town Council’s support once again and having given us free use of Cae Glas Park. Our guest of honour this year will be Darren Edwards from West Felton – disabled adventurer who covered seven marathons in seven continents in seven days in 2023. He will be setting off on his travels in December leading a ground-breaking expedition to the South Pole. Darren’s chosen charity to raise funds on the day is “Wings for Life” which is a not-for-profit spinal cord research foundation with the mission to find a cure.

“We are delighted that Pedal and Push will be providing our catering for the first time. Local group Bartells, who started with us way back in 2017 have signed up yet again to provide us with more of their amazing live music, and Oswestry Border Counties School of Gymnastics will again perform our closing ceremony finale! Our ambassadors have been recruited from Oswestry School and I’m sure they will help us to make the Games run smoothly. Phil Brown, Town Crier will open the Games at 11am, and David Davies will again undertake the MC role.”

Many thanks go to our sponsors Oswestry Town Council,

Oswestry BID, Oswestry Life magazine, Oswestry Sports Forum, Perspective Financial Group Ltd, DRE Accountants, Bunning Gas and Mary Hignett Bequest Fund for their financial support. Without them, the Games would not happen.

For latest information, follow the Facebook page: Oswestry Community Games

Oswestry’s First Pride!

Oswestry is ready to come together for its first ever Pride Celebration throughout June 2024. The town will host events and workshops to promote inclusivity and foster a sense of community. The inaugural Oswestry Pride launch will take place 1 June at Oswestry’s Climate Action Hub on Bailey Street and it promises to be an event filled with creativity, acceptance, and celebration.

The festivities start heating up on the 15 of June with Oswestry’s first ever Pride Parade, aiming to bring together all members of the community to show their support for Oswestry’s thriving LGBTQ+ community. There will be a Pride Picnic in Cae Glas Park featuring live performances from The Derwen Dance Crew, Identity School of Dance, poets and performers and a variety of stalls from LGBTQ+ creators, business owners and local

groups and charities. An Oswestry Pride Programme, sponsored by Santander, showcasing the full list of events and workshops on offer will soon be available.

The celebrations aim to create a safe and welcoming place for members of Oswestry’s LGBTQ+ community, their friends, families, and allies. It will serve as a platform to raise awareness, promote education, and encourage open dialogue about the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community with a range of workshops and talks throughout the month with thanks to their local sponsor Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors.

The Oswestry Pride Committee, a grassroots group of volunteers says, “Oswestry Pride wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and support of the local businesses, community organisations and enthusiastic volunteers who have come together

to make the events a reality. We have been incredibly impressed by Oswestry’s commitment to inclusivity. The support offered has been truly commendable and Oswestry should feel proud.

“We invite everyone to join us for Oswestry’s first ever Pride celebration and be part of this historic moment. It’s Oswestry’s Pride, and we welcome everyone to come together to celebrate our wonderfully diverse town. Together we can create a future where everyone lives safely together with mutual respect, tolerance, and acceptance.”

Get involved in Oswestry Pride by visiting www.linktr.ee/oswestrypride or email oswestrypride@gmail.com.

INDOOR: MONDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY STREET: WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY

Sunday, 2nd June - Porthywaen Silver Band at Cae Glas Park, 2pm – 4pm Friday 7th June - Charity Market

Bailey Head, Oswestry,10am – 2pm Sunday 23rd June - Bulgarian Music and Dance Event at Cae Glas Park, 12pm – 4pm

Award-winning | Unique Stalls | Fresh Produce Cafes | Gifts | Antiques | Crafts | Clothing

KnocK & Snitch – oSweStry’S BeSt Kept Secret

In December 2018 ‘Knock & Snitch’, known at the time as Bar Incognito, opened its doors to customers for the very first time.

In the build up to the grand opening, the bar posted cryptic messages and riddles on social media platforms about the need for a password to gain access along with clues to the physical location of the bar, which is set in an old forgotten building, in Oswestry’s Town centre. Hidden down the back of an alleyway, and uniquely having one large prominent door for access.

The owners had the ambition of creating a locally owned bar, focused on customer service, entertainment and quality cocktails. A bar you would only really have the chance to

visit if you were in a city.

In the months following its opening, the establishment cemented itself as a popular cocktail bar on the Oswestry nightlife scene.

Due to a trademark dispute in 2019, the bar hit a setback and had to rebrand itself from Bar Incognito to the now known Knock & Snitch. The name came about from the process of customers having to knock on the door and ‘snitch’ the password to other friends who may have wanted to pay a visit.

In more recent years, the bar has found itself becoming a hotspot for private hire, with birthday parties,

charity fundraisers, weddings and hen parties. The little bar with a warm atmosphere can host up to 80 guests in winter and 120 in the summer months, due to the outside space being utilised with the warmer weather.

Owner/managers, Graeme Kirkham and Shannon Graham, have worked hard to build up a good reputation for live entertainment at the bar including: live local artists, tribute nights, Christmas party nights, boozy lunches, silent discos, DJ events, cocktail masterclasses and this June they will be celebrating their 40th monthly comedy show!

You will find Knock & Snitch at 28 Cross Street, Oswestry. For information visit www.knockandsnitch.co.uk

French Kiss Sailor’s Mistress

Serves 4 Preparation time 15-20 minutes Cooking time 40 minutes

Jewelled stovetop rice

For a dish that looks so classy and tastes so complex, it’s hard to believe that everything happens in one pan.

Ingred I ents

• 200g basmati rice

• 1 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp rapeseed oil

• 2 onions, peeled and finely sliced

• Salt and ground black pepper

• 500g golden beetroot, peeled and cut into 1cm cubes

• 150ml white wine

• 50g cashew nuts, roughly chopped

• 2 green chillies, finely chopped

• 6cm piece fresh root ginger, peeled and grated

• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped

• 2 bay leaves

• 40 curry leaves (if you can’t find them, leave them out)

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 1 tsp black mustard seeds

• Pared peel of 1 unwaxed lime

• 400ml vegetable stock

To serve

• 1 small Chioggia beetroot, finely sliced on a mandolin

• Juice of 1 lime

• 3 tbsp pomegranate seeds

• ½ small bunch of fresh coriander, leaves and tender stems roughly chopped

• Greek yoghurt

method

1. Place the basmati rice in a sieve and rinse under a running tap, agitating the rice grains with your hands to rinse away as much starch as possible. When the water that runs through the sieve is no longer cloudy, tip the rice into a bowl and cover with 2cm fresh water. Set aside.

2. Meanwhile, heat the butter and oil in a large, deep frying pan over a medium heat. When the butter is melted and bubbling noisily, add the onions along with a pinch of salt and a generous grind of black pepper. Cook, stirring regularly, until the onions are soft and well on their way to being caramelised, about 12-15 minutes. Turn the heat up to high, then stir in the beetroot, pour in the wine and cover the pan with a lid. Cook, without peeking, for 8 minutes, then remove the lid and check the tenderness of the beetroot with a sharp knife. If it still feels hard, continue to cook for a few minutes with the lid on (adding a splash of water if all of the wine has evaporated). Once tender, turn the heat down to medium and stir through the cashews, chillies, ginger, garlic, bay leaves and curry leaves (if using). Cook for a minute until fragrant, then add the dried spices.

3. Drain the rice, then stir it through the spiced vegetable mixture, along with the lime peel. Pour over the vegetable stock, cover the pan with a lid and cook for 8 minutes.

4. Meanwhile, toss the sliced Chioggia beetroot in the lime juice in a small bowl and set aside.

5. Remove the pan from the heat and leave it with the lid on, without peeking, for 8 minutes before serving. This will help a crispy rice base to form.

6. Serve the rice in the pan at the table with the pomegranate seeds and coriander sprinkled over the top. Arrange the Chiogga beetroot slices in the middle of the rice and serve immediately with a dollop of Greek yoghurt on the side.

Recipes extracted from Love Vegetables by Anna Shepherd, out now, published by White Lion Publishing. Photography © Liz and Max Haarala Hamilton.

MUMBAI AT HENLLE HEIGHTS

Nestling in beautiful woodland, Henlle Heights provides a beautiful area for our guests to relax, unwind and enjoy our freshly cooked food.

“Foodie heaven”, exclaims a fan of the Mumbai at Henlle Heights – a “great independent restaurant” that ticks all the boxes when it comes to excelling in flavours, taste, visual appeal, location, and service.”

Renowned Mumbai Chef Bharat Singh Rawat & Chef Craig Sutton create an exciting fusion of Indian, Indo-Chinese and British cuisine.

Bharat, previously created the Mumbai menu for local, national and international restaurants, he is now proud to be part of - Mumbai at Henlle Heights.

Bharat blends exotic spices with local and seasonal ingredients for varied and “unrivalled Indian dishes”

Chef Craig Sutton, enjoys sourcing local produce to create superb country style dishes with passion and flair.

The pairing of Chefs talents makes Henlle Heights totally unique and a ‘must go to.’

GUESTS QUOTES:

“Location, location, location, plus delicious food, perfect evening!”

“Nothing is too much trouble for the staff and the food is divine,”

A guilt-free sweet treat –perfect for a coffee or tea break or popping in a lunchbox for a midday energy boost!

Serves 10-12

Preparation time 15-20 minutes

Cooking time 15-20 minutes, plus cooling

INGREDIENTS

• 1 ripe banana

• 200g oats

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 50g ground almonds

• 50g sunflower seeds

• 40g light brown soft sugar

• 4 tbsp Borderfields Cold Press Rapeseed Oil

• 4 tbsp honey

• 100g fresh raspberries

• 40g desiccated coconut

METHOD

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C, fan 160°C, gas mark 4. Line a square 20cm baking tray with parchment paper.

2. Mash the banana in a mixing bowl. Add the oats, cinnamon, ground almonds and sunflower seeds.

3. Add the light brown soft sugar, oil and honey to a small saucepan and cook over a low heat until the sugar has dissolved. Pour into the mixing bowl and mix to combine the wet and dry ingredients. Add the raspberries to the mixture carefully and combine.

4. Tip the mixture into the prepared tray and flatten down using the back of a spoon, ensuring the mixture reaches the corners and is evenly distributed. Sprinkle over the desiccated coconut.

5. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and cool for 5-10 minutes before cutting into 10-12 slices.

For more sweet and savoury recipe inspiration, visit www.borderfields.co.uk

A welcoming food-led pub reopened in 2022 following a complete makeover. Food served every day from 12- 3pm and 5-8pm with booking advised. A loyalty scheme is in place with benefits of up to 20% o

The White Lion. Llynclys, Oswestry, SY108LJ Telephone: 01691 830991

A friendly local taxi service operating in Oswestry and surrounding areas

AIRPORT TRANSFERS AVAILABLE

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

Paws fOr Thought ws

GIVING GLUCOSAMINE TO YOUR PET

Many of us will have heard how good glucosamine can be at relieving joint pain in humans. But did you know it was equally beneficial for your pets? Furthermore, did you realise natural sources of glucosamine are cheaper and much tastier for your pets than pharmaceutically produced brands, are absorbed more efficiently in the gut and have fewer side effects.

What Is Glucosamine?

Glucosamine is a combination name made up of glutamine (an amino acid) and glucose (a sugar). It’s a substance made naturally in the body that helps create molecules that form the cartilage in joints. But with age, less glucosamine is produced, and aches and pains set in. Giving extra glucosamine can help maintain mobility.

Natural Food and Treats High In Glucosamine

• Natural eggshell - membrane from inside an egg.

• Green Lipped Mussels - research has proven that they reduce arthritis symptoms. Fresh ones are hard to find, but you can buy green lipped mussel oil or powder supplements.

• Trachea - is made up of cartilage, which is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin.

• Chicken Feet - are packed with naturally occurring glucosamine for dogs. The nails are also digestible. You can also feed other poultry feet such as duck, turkey, goose or guinea fowl.

• Oxtails Or Pig Tails - tails are made up of cartilage surrounded by some meat. Cartilage is 5% glucosamine.

• Beef Knuckle Bones - have lots of cartilage and are a long-lasting treat.

• Shellfish Shells - contain glucosamine.

• Bone Broth - gelatinous bone broth is a good way to give your dog natural glucosamine. It’s easy to make even though it needs to spend 24 hours or so simmering on the stove (or in a slow cooker). Bone broth has countless health benefits, and it’s loaded with glucosamine and other joint-supporting nutrients.

Natural treats mentioned above are available from Duffy’s Diner, Maesbury Road, Oswestry.

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

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

Glenda celebrates 15 years with advocacy charity

An advocate with a passion for supporting and speaking out for disabled and vulnerable people is celebrating 15 years working with a local independent charity.

Glenda Crawshaw joined the Shropshire PCAS charity in 2009 and since then has been helping clients across the county deal with difficult situations move on with their lives.

“It’s incredibly rewarding when you do achieve a really decent outcome for a client that changes their life – and that does happen regularly,” she said.

Glenda came to PCAS – Person Centred Advocacy and Support – after working for Wrexham County Borough Council adult social care department running a day centre for young adults with an early diagnosis of dementia.

Her first encounter with an advocacy service was when the council proposed closing the day centre and an advocate was brought in to help the day centre staff fight the decision.

“I worked with one client in his early 40s who had been placed in a nursing home because there was nothing else available even though he was surrounded by very elderly people many with dementia.

As

advocates we are not afraid to challenge decisions if desired and directed by our clients. Sometimes it is daunting to do this alone, but if you have someone by your side, on your side, it suddenly becomes easier.

“I realised then that I wanted to become an advocate myself and it was absolutely the right choice,” she said.

Glenda, 55, who lives just over the Welsh border near Oswestry, has since qualified in the role gaining her City & Guilds Level 3 Certificate in Independent Advocacy. She is also assistant manager at the charity.

“I’ve such a passion for supporting and speaking up for disabled people, and nothing pleases me more than seeing someone I’ve supported moving on with their life. It can sometimes be a very challenging role, but with the support of everyone involved with our small charity, we support our clients through some very difficult times in their lives.”

Glenda works with up to 30 clients through PCAS covering a wide variety of issues. The case load varies from being with someone to open their mail because they are visually impaired or anxious about the contents, to safeguarding roles or a cancer diagnosis.

“It took a lot of persistence, but we did manage to get him his own place to live independently and he is still there now,” she said.

Most of the PCAS cases are referred to the charity by support agencies such as social workers or occupational therapists and there are also some self-referrals.

“As advocates we are not afraid to challenge decisions if desired and directed by our clients. Sometimes it is daunting to do this alone, but if you have someone by your side, on your side, it suddenly becomes easier. PCAS provides the people who stand by you.”

She said that it was the independent status of PCAS that set it apart from other organisations and was particularly important to her.

“People know that we are not linked to any other organisation or agency and so have no interest other than getting the best outcome for our clients. We always try to work with the agencies because that is the best way of getting a good result but as one of the few independent services our absolute priority is always the well-being of our clients.”

Glenda was recently presented with a bouquet of flowers by PCAS manager Simon Arthur to mark her 15 years with the charity.

“Glenda has been an incredibly dedicated advocate for the last 15 years and we are very grateful to her for all the work she has done for so many PCAS clients. We hope that she will be with us for many more years,” he said.

Further information on the Shropshire PCAS and its services are available at https://shropshirepcas.co.uk/ or by emailing the charity’s manager, Simon Arthur at simon@shropshirepcas.co.uk

Glenda Crawshaw marks 15 years with Shropshire PCAS

Locks:

Locks:

Wooden

Boarding

FATHER’S

Hairy Bikers Sausage Roll Maker, £35, www.menkind.co.uk

Burgon and Ball Oak Leaf Gloves, £18, shop.nationaltrust.org.uk

Dad... Print with Frame, £22.95, www.enardepy.co.uk

Hot Chili Plant, £14.99, www.dobbies.com 5. Camden Bath Soak, £32, www.soapsmith.com

Handmade Soap On A Rope, £7.50, www.thevelysoapery.com

Burgon and Ball Secateur and Pruning Knife Pouch Set, £21, shop.nationaltrust.org.uk

I Love Stinky Cheese Plate, £22, www.jimbobart.com

Cuisinart Rechargeable Automatic Wine Opener with Vacuum Sealer, £50, www.wayfair.co.uk

Aico host Community Awards 2024 to Celebrate Local Excellence

Oswestry-based Aico hosted their bi-annual Community Awards to celebrate excellence within the social housing industry and local community. On Thursday the 18th of April, 400 guests and finalists took to Birmingham’s International Convention Centre to honour the outstanding work of individuals and organisations across the UK.

In support of the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC), this year, Aico curated 13 categories providing entrants with the opportunity to showcase inspirational colleagues, projects, and innovations. The categories were judged by Neal Hooper, Managing Director of Aico, Lesley Baird, Participation Expert, James Prestwich, Director of Policy for the Chartered Institute of Housing, and Khadra Ibrahim, Careers and Community Development Lead for RBKC Housing Management.

The first award of the evening, Collaborative Partnership, was proudly presented to Jewson Partnership Solutions, for their partnership with YouthBuild Ventures UK to establish YouthBuilders, a construction company aimed at empowering YouthBuild graduates with practical skills, employment, and a living wage.

Warrington & Vale Royal College’s Business Centre developed an Employer Engagement Strategy to improve their curriculum offer to align with the skills needed in the sector. The strategy was honoured with the College Initiative of the Year award.

Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative was awarded to Equans for their Equans Expert initiative. This initiative delivers informative workshop sessions covering aspects of business such as marketing, design, cyber-security, and HR, giving individuals the confidence and skills to benefit others.

Lightning Solutions Electrical Services took the award for Electrical Contractor of the Year. The Welsh company have been trading for over 10 years and are continuously going above and beyond to ensure high standards for their customers.

The next award to be presented was Resident Engagement, which celebrated St. Leger Homes and their variety of programmes which educate and create discussions between their tenants and residents.

Georgina Homer of Wolverhampton Homes, then took to the stage to claim the Woman in Fire Safety award. Georgina’s passion for resident engagement, dedication, and engaging personality are all assets to Wolverhampton Homes. Georgina commented, “I am thrilled to win this award, and incredibly humbled. I’m at a point in my career where I have chosen to make a career change, and this is part of the representation that I’ve made the right choice.”

The evening saw entertainment from 2022 Britain’s Got Talent Winner and Comedian, Axel Blake, who filled the room with laughter.

The winner of Neighbourhood Transformation was Bassetlaw District Council, for their outstanding work modernising its Independent Living Scheme portfolio. Bassetlaw aim to improve the overall living experience for residents, improve energy efficiency, and make better use of external spaces.

Florentina Dita has exhibited powerful leadership at PiLON. Leading the creation and implementation of their core values, and taking ownership of their social value initiatives has awarded Florentina the Rising Star award.

The Community Awards recognised Alexa Scrivener as Inspirational Colleague of the Year, for her commendable achievements as a role model, and her exceptional tenant engagement at Stirling Council.

Kelda Wood, Founder of Climbing Out, was one of the presenters for the evening and commented, “It’s fantastic to be building a relationship between Aico and Climbing Out, and I’m delighted to have been able to support the awards evening. It’s been such a great opportunity to recognise people doing amazing work in the community.”

The winner of the Sustainability Project of the Year award was presented to Moat Homes on behalf of their Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, in which they have leveraged cutting-edge technology to significantly improve the energy efficiency of 613 homes.

Professor Paddy Gray of Connswater received the Lifetime Achievement award. Paddy has an abundance of experience in the housing sector, starting in 1981 when he was recruited to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, and has since led thirty housing action area teams in Belfast.

The Best Distributor Community Initiative was awarded to Service Electrical Distributors Ltd, who with the Sovini group, are supporting communities with local requirements, women’s refuges, armed forces support, substance recovery and sports clubs.

Finally, the new award for 2024, Aico’s Apprentice of the Year was presented to Cole Galligan from Loughborough College and Raylec Electrical, for his professionalism and dedication towards his apprenticeship.

Once all the winners had been announced, attendees danced into the night alongside Top Collective, a spectacular 9 piece ensemble band.

Host of the night, Carl Jones, commented “It is heart-warming to see how much these awards mean to all the inspirational individuals and groups who have been shortlisted for such fantastic work in their local communities. Congratulations to Aico for launching such a brilliant initiative, shining a light on these unsung heroes at a tremendous night of celebration.”

The Aico Community Awards achieved great success by honouring inspirational individuals and organisations who innovate, excel, and prioritise others. The event raised over £9,000 for the EIC with Aico matching the donation, resulting in a total contribution of £18,000.

Keep up to date with Aico’s latest community initiatives at www.aico.co.uk/in-the-community

Axel Blake, 2022 Britain’s Got Talent Winner

Cole Galligan, Apprentice of the Year Winner, and Neal Hooper, Managing Director, Aico

Neal Hooper, Managing Director, Aico

Health and Safety Traininganywhere, anytime!

Established 16 years ago, MBO Safety Services pride themselves on giving clients support and guidance through their health and safety needs whatever they may be. As well as offering a vast range of health and safety training courses they also offer inspections and have a team of consultants who can help ensure your company is putting in place the best safe working practices.

MBO training courses range from essentials such as First Aid, Mental Health and Fire Warden training to more industry specific courses such as PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment) and COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health). They also offer accredited courses through the likes of IOSH, NEBOSH, CITB and UKATA.

For those looking to obtain a CSCS card, a certificate in CITB Health & Safety Awareness is a must – this is a course run regularly so contact MBO if you are interested. Spaces are limited on the open courses so hurry to secure your place.

Can’t make it to the training centres?

MBO can come to you!

Struggling to make it to the classroom due to a busy schedule? MBO offer remote learning options and E-Learning alternatives for many of their courses. E-Learning allows attendees to complete training at their own pace from just about anywhere, making it easier to fit around other commitments.

Unlike E-Learning, and despite being held anywhere providing the attendee has access to the internet, remote learning takes place at the same time as the classroom training. The attendee will be given access

to the training via video connection allowing them to receive the same learning experience as those inside the classroom. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask their trainer any questions as well as having the opportunity to share ideas with other attendees.

For those interested in the MBO consultancy options, they offer a complimentary health and safety audit. As part of this service, one of their IOSH chartered consultants will assess your current health and safety arrangements and help to identify measures to improve the safety standards of your working environment.

With one of their health and safety contracts, you will be offered a set number of days where your assigned consultant will come out to visit your premises. They will assist you with the assessment, reviewing or creation of any health and safety documentation, as well as offering valuable advice and support on how best to maintain a safe working environment in compliance with health and safety law.

For documentation, the consultants are able to draw up health and safety manuals for your business. They will get to know you and your needs from your general risk assessments to bespoke site specific assessments, creating a truly personalised experience.

MBO consultants also carry out inspections relating to asbestos management, PUWER, racking, fire and fire extinguisher servicing.

“We are happy to help you on your health and safety journey and look forward to hearing from you.”

For course information and to book, visit https://mbosafetyservices.co.uk or call 08000 842 297.

training | consultancy | inspections classroom

MBo safety services limited provide a range of services that are all tailored to suit your business’s individual requirements. From personal consulting, to providing training courses, and bespoke policies and procedures, MBo safety services limited invests the time to understand your business.

We can accommodate courses at our classrooms situated around the uk, or if preferred we can run in house courses at your locations giving you full flexibility and reducing travelling costs.

Virtual learning

Virtual learning gives you the flexibility of not travelling. We run courses using virtual platforms allowing students to fully engage with their instructor in the comfort of their own surroundings.

e-learning

Online courses can be cost effective and convenient. These can be taken at a time to suit you, whether it’s in your place of work, office or home, you can simply pick up from where you left off and continue the course at your own pace.

You receive an unexpected (but genuine) message from WhatsApp containing a verification code. Next you receive a message seemingly from one of your WhatsApp contacts asking (on some believable pretext) for the verification code you’ve just received.

Because the message appears to come from a real WhatsApp friend, people have been tricked into passing on the code which then allows fraudsters to take over their account. Scammers can then identify contacts and personal details from the message history and potentially target your friends with the information they have found.

How to keep your WhatsApp account safe

Don’t share your login details or verification code with anyone – not even close family or trusted friends.

Set up two-factor authentication (2FA)* to secure your account.

Report spam messages or block the sender within WhatsApp. Press and hold on the message bubble, select ‘Report’ and then follow the instructions. Be wary of WhatsApp messages requesting money, even if they come from family or close friends. If you’re worried, ring your friend to check they are OK.

WhatsApp users who have lost access to their accounts can contact support@whatsapp.com

*What is 2FA?

Two factor authentication adds a layer of security when signing in to websites and online services by asking for an additional code via text message or an authenticator app such as Authy. Biometrics can also be used – a fingerprint, or a scan of your iris or face - as authentication. You can usually find options for 2FA in the security settings of each account. We recommend setting up 2FA for all your important accounts.

If you have been affected by a scam – help is out there – Victim Support has a free confidential helpline 0808 168 9111 and so does Mind 0300 123 3393. www.rainford-it.co.uk 07552 863996

ALL YOUR IT IN ONE PLACE, WE ARE MAC SPECIALISTS.

John and Dane Rainford (Rainford

Company car benefits and exemptions for 2024/25

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

It’s worth noting that not all hybrid cars have the assumed 2% percentage for company car benefits. If CO2 emissions remain within 1 to 50g/km then the percentage can range from 2% to 14% dependent on the electric mileage range. This is the distance the car can go on electric power before its batteries need recharging. As hybrid cars have a higher list price compared to the equivalent petrol or diesel car, it usually creates a higher value of BIK, so it’s worth taking this into consideration when choosing a car.

Where employees are provided with fuel for their own private use by their employers, the car fuel benefit charge is applicable. The fuel benefit charge is determined by reference to the CO2 rating of the car, applied to a fixed amount. The car fuel benefit charge for 2024/25 is £27,800. The fuel benefit is not applicable when the employee pays for all their private fuel use.

The standard benefit charge for private use of a company van is currently £3,960. A company van is defined as ‘a van made available to an employee by reason of their employment’. There is an additional van fuel benefit charge of £757 for a van with significant private use. If private use of the van is insignificant, then no benefit will apply.

Since 6 April 2021, the van benefit charge has been reduced to zero for vans that produce zero carbon emissions.

There are circumstances where it can be possible to offer employees car benefits that are exempt from tax.

These include:

• Cars available for business journeys only

• Cars adapted for an employee with a disability

• ‘Pool’ cars

Christina Evans A.C.C.A.Assistant Manager

“I just want to keep my Will simple” - or do you?

Writing a Will doesn’t have to be complicated - but it does need to protect your assets and reflect your circumstances.

The team at Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors in Oswestry have helped thousands of people write their Will over the years, each one carefully considered to ensure it is right for them.

Karl Beckett, a private client specialist based in the firm’s Oswestry office, says that although people often start by saying they want a “simple Will”, it’s vital to fully consider the options.

He says: “There are a number of key issues, such as whether you are married or have children from a previous relationship, as to how your Will needs to be structured. All of the Wills we prepare are done on a bespoke basis, tailored to the client’s individual needs and circumstances.”

Another member of Lanyon Bowdler’s private client team, Angharad Hird, says a common question people ask is whether their assets and estate will be above the threshold for Inheritance Tax.

She says: “Each individual has a tax-free allowance of £325,000, with anything above that liable to a tax of 40% unless reliefs apply. Sitting down with a solicitor to go

through all of your finances is really the best way to get professional advice about your tax liabilities.

“A number of scenarios are explained in the latest edition of our Legal Lounge podcast, which show how different kinds of Wills are suitable for different circumstances.

“The key takeaway is that although it may be tempting to keep things simple and try to do it yourself using something like an online Will-writing kit, you then miss out on some really important advice that a lawyer can provide.

“We will ask questions that you would not consider yourself, and although you might just want a simple Willthat may not be the right option for you.”

To listen to the podcast, search for The Legal Lounge on all podcast platforms or visit the firm’s website at https://www.lblaw.co.uk/knowledge/

Karl Beckett

Angharad Hird

9 Cross Street, Oswestry, SY11 2NG

A new development, targeted at niche retailers, beauty therapists, drink bar and commercial businesses, providing an exciting opportunity within Oswestry’s busy centre.

■ Total Floor Area of 360 - 1,713 sq ft

■ Newly refurbished

■ New shop frontage

■ Town centre location

■ Targeted at niche retailers and commercial businesses

GROUND FLOOR PLAN

Three newly refurbished ground floor lock up shop units that can be taken as a whole or as separate units to suit the tenants needs

The property comprises of three ground floor lock up shop units that are arranged to provide a total net internal sales area of approximately 1,713 ft sq. (159.18m sq.) the units can be taken as a whole or as separate units to suit the tenants needs.

The property benefits from a new shop frontage and is offered in shell condition but will include WC and kitchenette area. The units would lend themselves to a variety of commercial uses.

This new development is situated directly opposite Poundland, on the busy prime area of Cross Street.

Are you struggling with

Sports injuries?

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

Womens Health Issues? Grumpy Babies & Children? Sleep, Stress or Nutrition Concerns?

We can Help

Claire arnold Registered osteopath & lifestyle Medicine practitioner

Hands-on Cranial & Structural Osteopathic Care & Lifestyle Medicine Advice to support your family’s optimal health

Call 07792 367507

Based at Oswestry Herbarium & Massage Centre, 15 Albion Hill themeadowsosteopathclinic-clairearnoldosteopath.com

Ear Wax Trouble?

Sister Kate can help

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.

Service

The cost for this procedure is £60.00

Please note that it is the same cost for one or both ears

or

Healthy Focus Supporting Sensory Impairment

12 million people in the UK are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus, there are 2 million with sight loss. These highly prevalent chronic conditions that affect peoples’ daily lives have been associated with poorer mental health and well-being, particularly following the Covid-19 pandemic. Finding support or activities are key to improving an individual’s mental health and luckily we have a few right here in Shropshire!

See & Hear Shropshire 2024 - A free exhibition for people with sight or hearing loss.

Wednesday 12 June 2024 10am-4pm Shrewsbury Town Football Club. See a range of exhibitors representing services and products relating to living with, and managing sensory impairment, as well as presentations and workshops throughout the day. For more information or to register your interest, call or text 07778 956096 or email admin@sightlossshropshire.org.uk.

Shrewsbury Cycling Sight Loss

Opportunity Group - 19 June 10.30–11.30am at Sports Village, Sundorne Road, Shrewsbury SY1 4RQ.  £4.50 payable directly to the Sports Village on the day. Booking via Community Resource advised, call 01743 342168.

Oswestry Talking News - is a registered charity providing an audio version of local news and information taken from our local papers and magazines. It is a free service and uses free postal delivery provided by Royal Mail. Call 01691 830558 or email oswestrytn@outlook.com.

Access Group (Oswestry and District) - a voluntary group whose aim is to improve access and facilities for all those who are either resident in or visiting Oswestry. The group is focused on supporting people with a disability, the partially sighted, the hard of hearing and parents with young children. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month from 10:30am until 12 noon. Call 01691 650917 or email oswestryanddistrictaccessgroup@gmail.com.

Hearing loss support hub – Oswestry Library, 5 June 10:00am is hearing aid tube changing, battery collection and advice on hearing aid care. Hope you have a happy healthy month.

• Do you often feel that

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• Are your friends and relatives commenting on your

• Having difficulty picking out individual voices when in a noisy room?

Musculoskeletal Orthoses To keep you moving

We provide top quality orthoses to help keep you moving in less pain. You will receive a thorough assessment to ensure you have the best orthotic prescription for conditions such as: Plantar fasciitis, Metatarsalgia, Mortons Neuroma, Knee Osteo-Arthritis (OA), Knee ligament injuries, Leg length discrepancies and more.

Orthoses offered: Functional Foot Orthoses (FFOs) Ankle supports OA Offloading Knee Braces Ligament Knee Braces

Neuromuscular Orthoses For improving your life

Expert Orthotic treatment provided for a wide range of neuromuscular conditions including: Spina Bifida, Cerebral Palsy, Spinal cord injury, Muscular dystrophy, Chacot Marie Tooth (CMT). We provide expert assessment and provision of Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFOs), Knee Ankle Foot Orthoses (KAFOs) and Contracture Correction Devices (CCDs) to help manage these conditions.

Accommodative Footwear

Our Orthotists have years of experience providing bespoke made to measure footwear. We only use expertly hand crafted footwear manufacturers to ensure you get the perfect fit.

Pain-Free Feet, Better Balance, Stronger You

Suffering with pain in your legs or feet can be so debilitating. Taking a daily walk or exercising is the key to helping us stay young, and with the beautiful scenery around Oswestry, you don’t have to walk far to see the luscious greenery of fields and hills. But, what if you’ve been feeling pain in your feet not long into your walks? You invested in your shoes which are designed with cushioning to support your knees and feet, but for some reason you’re finding yourself cutting exercise short because you can’t get through the pain and discomfort.

Well, you’re not alone. There are any number of stresses and strains we put on our legs, knees and feet on a daily basis and if you have an injury, a condition or if it’s just wear and tear, there’s no getting away from pain that can impact your daily life.

Around 10 million people in the UK suffer from Arthritis. Imagine the joy of spending time with your grandchildren without wincing every time you need to pick up the ball. Or how about being able to get in and out of your favourite chair with ease, instead of enduring the searing pain every time you put weight on your dodgy knee.

Mobility issues can affect all ages, so recognising when you should seek the help of an expert is the key to pain management and recovery after injury.

Seeking the help of an orthotist will help you find the best solution for your pain and problem area. Orthotics are designed to relieve pain in the feet, knees, legs and other areas, especially after surgery, injury and with musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions.

Woods Orthotics are specialists based in Oswestry and the only dedicated private orthotic clinic in Shropshire and north Wales. Happy to help you with your journey back to a pain free life, co-owners Ffion and Tom are both state registered Orthotists and will assess, prescribe and fit a wide variety of orthoses (braces for the body or supportive devices)

Getting to the root of your problem is key, so a detailed biomechanical assessment using the latest technology is used. Because of Ffion and Tom’s background, having worked for the NHS and the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital, they now manufacture foot orthotics themselves. They use the best suppliers and manufacturers for orthoses.

What our clients say:

“I went to see Tom for a professional fitting of my... brace[s] and I was very impressed. He is very experienced and took the time to listen to where I had pain and how it was preventing me from my passion for running. Within 3 months of steadily building up my short distances I felt able to return to the running community. It is now 7 months since that first race back in December and I have run at least 9 races this year. I would recommend Tom without any hesitation.” - Allan

“I was referred to Tom and Ffion by a private consultant based in Gobowen hospital, to have a brace made for my lower leg as my tibia and fibula were at risk of fracture following an operation.  I had a bespoke brace made of my lower leg which is really comfortable to wear and allows me to live a pretty normal existence, which was very difficult prior to the brace.  They were both very friendly and professional - nothing was too much effort.” – Paul

To book your appointment, call 01691 592 156 or visit www.woodsorthotics.com for online booking. Self-referrals accepted.

Pin T Massageong

Therapeutic & Relaxing Massages

Nutritional

Therapy for Mums Managing “mum-brain”; using nutrition to reduce brain fog

Brain fog is something that many new mums experience after having a baby. Studies have shown that it’s a real thing - your brain goes through physiological changes when you have a baby, which can result in a reduced ability to focus and can affect your memory. Add in a nice dose of sleep deprivation and it can feel as though your brain is made of cotton wool! As a nutritionist supporting new mums, here are my tips to support your brain during this transitional time:

Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for brain health. Foods rich in omega-3s, such as fatty fish like salmon, trout, and sardines, provide essential nutrients like DHA that support brain function and improve cognitive performance. Incorporating these into regular meals or opting for high-quality fish oil supplements can help combat brain fog.

Dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with vitamins and minerals that support brain health. These greens are rich in folate, a B vitamin essential for neurotransmitter function and mental clarity. Including a variety of leafy greens in salads, smoothies, or stir-fries can provide a nutrient boost for tired brains.

Berries, especially blueberries, are another superfood for the brain. They are loaded with antioxidants that help protect brain cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. Fresh or frozen, they can be blended into a morning smoothie, enjoyed as a snack or added to yoghurt.

Nuts and seeds are excellent sources of brainboosting nutrients like vitamin E, folate, and omega-3 fatty acids. Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds can be sprinkled on porridge, yogurt, or salads to add a crunchy texture and a nutritional punch.

Lastly, staying hydrated is crucial for optimal brain function. Dehydration can exacerbate feelings of fatigue and cognitive fog, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Herbal teas, coconut water, and infused water with slices of citrus or cucumber can also help meet hydration needs while adding flavour and variety.

CAMBRIAN HEARING ltd.

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McTimoney Chiropractor

BSc (Hons) Chiro MMCA GCC Reg No 02362

MChiro MMCA GCC Reg No 04118

What walks on 4 legs in the morning, 2 at midday and 3 in the evening?

Would you use a walking stick? Many patients I spoke to were reluctant – I suspect they thought it made them look “old” and very few of us admit to that until we are “really” old! A walking stick transfers load off the lower limbs, improves balance and stability and prevents falls – what’s not to like? I’ve already got one or two waiting to be used.

So, if you are considering mobility aids, what should you think about? Are you going to use a frame indoors (best no wheels) or outdoors (with wheels). How heavy is the stick and can you lift it? Do you need a seat on a frame as well and do you need a tripod base for a freestanding stick and extra stability? Sticks can be right or left-handed and folding ones can be easily transported. What about the right length of stick? Stand upright with your arms by your side and your elbow slightly flexed. Put the stick 15cm outside your foot and its handle should be level with your

wrist. If you have a stick already, it has a ferrule! That is the name for the device designed to give grip on the ground and they need checking for wear and are usually easy to replace.

It may be that you, or a friend or relative, has a fall in their mobility and need more help. Often advice regarding walking aids can be provided by a mobility aid shop (there is one at our local orthopaedic hospital) or a physiotherapist. Shropshire Council adult care services can offer home assessments to help people preserve their independence. Putting Occupational Therapy Assessment into www.shropshire.gov.uk gives more details. The which. co.uk site has an article titled “buying the best walking stick” that also covers wheelchairs.

So, the answer to our riddle in the title. Oedipus defeated the sphinx by getting it right: it’s us –Humans.

First residents move into  new Oswestry care home

The doors of HC-One’s Bluebell View Care Home, a new £12 million state-of-the-art 80-bedroom care home in Oswestry, opened for the first time on Monday 22 April to officially welcome residents to their new home.

Bluebell View’s first ever resident, Dot Jones, enjoyed cutting the ribbon to mark the opening of the care home after weeks of hard work by the team preparing to get everything ready for the grand opening.

Dot was one of three residents who moved into Bluebell View and was welcomed by the home’s friendly team including Home Manager, Michelle Middleton Price who has over 20 years of frontline healthcare experience; Deputy Home Manager, Vicky Athey and Resident Liaison Manager, Sheilagh Lewis.

Home Manager, Michelle, was also presented with a card and flowers to recognise her hard work in getting Bluebell View up and running.

Bluebell View, located on Victoria Road, around half a mile to the southeast of the town centre, has been developed in conjunction with contractor, Greenchurch Developments. Bluebell View is care provider HC-One’s first facility in Oswestry, offering high quality residential, residential dementia and nursing care to older people.

The purpose-built three-storey home features residents’ lounges, tranquil reading rooms and a comfortable reception and bar area, along with private gardens with courtyards, and will create around 90 new jobs in the area at full occupancy.

The home also plays host to a selection of beautiful paintings created by local artist, Richard Briggs, that celebrate local landmarks and culture which can be seen proudly on display throughout the reception and communal areas to make residents and visitors feel at home.

Bluebell View is the latest home to be built in HC-One’s new build programme, which saw three homes open in 2021 (in York, Bingham, and Telford) with another set to open in Milton Keynes later this year.

This new build programme is complemented by HC-One’s wider £93 million refurbishment and upgrade programme, to modernise and enhance the living environments and facilities of more than 200 of HCOne’s existing care homes across the company. This is the largest ever care home upgrade programme in the UK and will ensure that people across the nation can live and work in specialist, comfortable homes fit for the future of care.

Home Manager at Bluebell View Care Home, said, “We are delighted to have opened Bluebell View Care Home and welcomed our first residents.

“I look forward to showcasing our new state-of-theart beautiful care home and what it has to offer the local community. I am confident that the team will make a huge difference in the local community and enrich the lives of residents living at Bluebell View.

“At HC-One, we strive to be the first-choice care provider for residents and colleagues in every community we serve. As the first HC-One home in the Oswestry area, I’m looking forward to working with more talented colleagues locally, to provide the kindest possible care to older people in the local community in our welcoming new home.”

If you are interested in visiting or finding out more about Bluebell View Care Home, visit www.hc-one.co.uk/ carehomes/bluebell-view or call 01691 592100.

Just like Goldilockswe’ve got the perfect chair for you

The official celebration of the opening of Bluebell View Care Home is set to take place later this year.

Michelle Middleton Price,

Above: The Bluebell View Care Team Below left: Bluebell View’s first resident, Dot Jones

BEAUTIFUL BOOKCASES

Tall or small, modern or traditional, the perfect freestanding bookcase will not only hold your reading matter but also provide a great spot for attractive displays and useful storage. Best of all? It can be moved from room to room, and even taken with you when you move.

With three fixed shelves and two handy drawers, this handsome, classically styled bookcase is available in either Honey Gold or Dark Chestnut. Balmoral two-drawer single bookcase, from £775, next.co.uk/lauraashley.

This pretty bookcase has an ornately carved frame and a distressed finish, bringing great charm to a living room or bedroom. Amrit bookshelf, £1,475, sweetpeaandwillow.com.

▼ Sleek, smart and modern, this tall, open display unit is made from blackened iron and solid oak. Ideal for sophisticated displays, it could equally be used for books and rows of magazines. Herrick bookshelf, £4,405, arteriorshome.com.

Stylish and sustainable, this bookshelf features herringbone panels of reclaimed teak and elegantly splayed metal legs. Curate books and decorative ornaments on the asymmetric arrangement of shelves while hiding other things in the cupboards below. Castro bookshelf, £1,495, coxandcox.co.uk

Frame objects beautifully and introduce an architectural element with this asymmetric étagere designed by Laura Kirar, made from hammered iron with inkstained shelves. Méson Etagere, £9,633, arteriorshome.com.

The Timeless Appeal of Shutters and Blinds

When you’re curled up with a cup of tea enjoying the view from your favourite armchair, the last thing you want is the sun casting a harsh glare across the page of your book. How many times do you have to get out of your chair to adjust the curtains as the sun moves?

Struggling with curtains that let the light through at the wrong time of day or even an ill-fitting pair that let the heat out at night can be a constant ‘thing’ to deal with, when really you should be able to sit back and relax in your surroundings.

Independent research by the University of Salford’s Energy House laboratory (and funded by the BBSA), found that blinds and shutters can help save energy. In fact, the findings show a reduction of heat loss through windows by up to a whopping 33%.

Imagine motorised blinds that adjust automatically throughout the day, keeping your home cool and comfortable without you lifting a finger – great now we’re heading into the summer months. Simply set your preferences and let the technology do the work. This is particularly beneficial

as we age and appreciate the ease of automated solutions – it’s easy to use and puts you in charge.

Motorised blinds aren’t just about convenience – they offer superior light control. Want a film night atmosphere? A simple voice command dims the room. Need a morning wake-up call? The blinds can gradually open to gentle sunlight. This precise control over light not only enhances comfort but also helps regulate your home’s temperature, potentially leading to lower energy bills – a welcome benefit for any retiree on a fixed income.

Shutters are timeless in their look, with classic or more modern styles available. Not only do they help keep the house cool during the day and warm at night but are proven to be a natural sound barrier – so consider this if you are a light sleeper.

Think of your windows as the crown jewels of your home –investing in good quality dressing, adds value to your property. With premium shutters and smart blinds, you can control the light, ensure privacy, and create a personalized oasis that reflects your taste.

Lewis & Holmes are the shutter and blind experts in Oswestry. As members of the BBSA (British Blind and Shutter Association, https:// bbsa.org.uk), they are operating to the highest standards of quality and workmanship and backed-up by the only national trade association for window blinds, awnings and shutters.

Visit Lewis & Holmes at 100 Castle Street, Oswestry, SY11 1LA or call to discuss your home project on 01691 680 111.

Roché Awnings Showroom Continues to Grow

Roché’s impressive al-fresco living showroom, on the outskirts of Oswestry, highlights a wide selection of shading products from stunning German made Awnings and Glass Rooms to the impressive Louvred Roof system, all designed to help you make the most of your outdoor space.

With over 20 awnings on display both inside and out as well as glass rooms options and the all new Artares louvred roof system from Weinor, the selection really is second to none. Roché work not just in the local area, but nationally.

They welcome visitors from across the UK, who venture up to see the selection of awnings, displaying the different housing options, sizes as well as options for remote control operation, not to mention the vast array of fabrics on show.

Awnings provide effective shade from the sun, ensuring you can spend more time in your garden, even when the sun is at its peak. An awning added to a patio area makes the perfect addition allowing you to create a haven of calm or extend your dining and entertainment experience. They use Aluminium housing and state of the art fabrics available in a wide range of colours. With such a wide selection available across their collection, you are sure to find a solution for your space.

Their impressive selection of Garden Rooms covers glass verandas, glass rooms, and louvred roof systems. Offering the perfect year-round solution for the unpredictable British weather, providing cover from the rain, with the added option of shading from the sun. Available with fixed glass sides, sliding doors or simply opt for a roof only, the choice really is yours. Add LED

lights, infrared heaters and more to make your garden room, your perfect retreat to enjoy views of your garden all year round.

Award winning awnings and garden rooms from German manufacturers Weinor and Markilux, not only ensure the latest design and development, from integrated heating and lighting to innovative tendon arms and the option for integrated wind sensors, but also the finest build quality.

Their sales and customer service team are based at their showroom on the Artillery Business Park in Park Hall, and they are supported by surveyors across the UK, as well as their fully trained and insured team of installers, all employed by the business. So, no outsourcing to third party fitters, ensuring their fit and service are leading the industry.

If you haven’t visited the Roché showroom yet, you really should. They have a broad selection of outdoor shading products to help you make the most of your outdoor space. Their style isn’t pushy and salesy, they simply want to help you find the best solution for your garden.

From beautiful awnings offering shade for your patio area to Garden Rooms, which offer the perfect outdoor space to allow you to enjoy your garden year-round.

They also serve a mean coffee for you to enjoy whilst you take a stroll around their impressive showroom right here in Oswestry.

Roché Awnings showroom can be found on Artillery Business Park, SY11 4AD. Open Monday-Friday 10am4pm and Saturdays 9am-1pm or visit rocheawnings.com.

Property Spotlight

Beautiful Country Cottage

Aston Square, Aston

Town and Country Oswestry are delighted to present to the market this beautiful and deceptively spacious three-bedroom country cottage set in wonderful grounds extending to approximately three acres. This property offers a tranquil rural setting, yet the facilities of the town of Oswestry are just a short drive away. With many character features and two modern extensions, Holly Cottage oozes charm and is immaculately presented. The gardens are awash with mature shrubs and trees and are a haven for wildlife. This property is perfect for those looking for life in the country yet with the ease of great road and railway networks to larger cities such as Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham. In order to appreciate what this family home has to offer, viewings are an absolute must.

Asking Price £695,000. For viewings call Town & Country on 01691 679631 or email sales@townandcountryoswestry.com

Family Home

Liverpool Road, Oswestry

Lovely three bedroom, mid terrace, town house. Being a well-designed family home, benefitting from many period features, a convenient location for the town and local school, and an enclosed rear garden. In brief, the accommodation affords reception room, dining room/sitting room, kitchen, utility room and sun room. To the first floor is the master bedroom with dressing room/ study, two further bedrooms and bathroom. Externally there is a patio and lawn garden area and garden shed.

OIRO £199,995. For viewings call Roger Parry & Partners on 01691 655334 or email oswestry@rogerparry.net

Village Location

Kinalt Crescent, St. Martins

Four bedroom property with entrance leading into a reception hall with cloakroom and staircase to the first floor. The lounge is warm and inviting with woodburning stove. The kitchen dining room offers plenty of space for cooking whilst entertaining.

The first floor landing is bright and airy with access to the principle bedroom with en-suite, and three further bedrooms, all served by a lovely bathroom.

The gardens are laid to lawn with paved patio area, ideal for outside entertaining. The rear garden is fully enclosed by fencing and provides access to the double garage with additional parking space for four cars to the front.The garden is south facing and benefits from an additional area to the rear of the garage, an ideal ‘hot tub’ location.

OIRO £350,000. For viewings call Hayley Jackson Estate Agent on 07359 393122 or email hayley.jackson@exp.uk.com

Detached Family House

Woodlands Close, Oswestry

An excellent opportunity to purchase this threebedroom detached house, perfect for a growing family and occupying an enviable cul de sac location.

Ideally placed for amenities being a short stroll from the town centre and schools and for commuters the A5/ M54 motorway network is a short drive away.

The accommodation briefly comprises reception with cloakroom, spacious dining hall/family room, lounge, good sized kitchen, principal bedroom with ensuite, two further bedrooms and family bathroom. The property has the benefit of gas central heating, driveway with ample parking and garage along with delightful well stocked gardens offering privacy.

OIRO £285,000. For viewings call Monks on 01691 674567 or email sales.oswestry@monks.co.uk

Warm weather...

Selling or renting?

Pop in and say hello to our friendly team at 16 Church Street, Oswestry, SY11 2SP, or give us a call on 01691 674 567

Judy

Lucinda

Beth

Chris Ethan

Patricia

... and an even warmer welcome

• Selling and renting for you 7 days a week

• Available 8.00am – 8.00pm Monday to Friday

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

• Prominent high street offices in Oswestry, Shrewsbury & Wem

• A free, no-obligation valuation and marketing appraisal

• And most importantly competitive no sale – no charge commission

Joanne Luna

Monks make moving happen!

What a lovely time of year this is! Gardens are starting to bloom; the sun is shining and the sound of cricket fills the air.

This is the perfect season for selling homes, with most people agreeing that viewings work best when clean windows are open wide to let the fresh air in and highlight the views. Gardens look glorious this month with luscious lawns and flowers everywhere, whether you have green fingers or not. ‘No Mow May’ is a popular movement for encouraging wildflowers, insects and wildlife, so if you’re not a fan of mowing the lawn this is the perfect excuse to embrace your wild side! If a perfectly manicured lawn is your style, we know you’ll be one step ahead of us. Don’t forget your hard paving.

Giving your driveway a quick sweep makes a great first impression as viewers arrive. Patios can be transformed with a power-wash (hire a jet wash from your local hardware store). A tempting pathway can lead viewers out and into the garden to fill all the senses.

Children may need to accompany parents on viewings, so we recommend you invite the children out to the garden. This allows the adults to enjoy their viewing and talk without interruptions and the children to accustom themselves with what will become their safe playing space.

With cricket season upon us, Monks are proud to sponsor the Oswestry Cricket Club and we’re looking forward to catching up with players, supporters and locals in the club house. Please feel free to come over and chat to us about your moving plans, whether you

A beautiful property located on St. Martins Road in the popular village of Gobowen, backing onto open fields to the rear. This spacious home boasts two reception rooms. With four bedrooms and three bathrooms, there is ample space and well laid out accommodation. Driveway and

Immaculate, spacious threebedroom semi-detached house. Pleasantly positioned in a cul de sac with views backing onto fields. Viewing is highly recommended to appreciate the condition and location of this lovely family home.

are buying, selling or renting. We are here to help make your move happen.

Monks is a professional, friendly and experienced firm of Estate and Letting Agents with prominent offices in Shrewsbury,  Wem and Oswestry. We provide superior local knowledge and expertise with a human touch. Our aim is to provide our clients with the highest level of service and integrity.

Our unparalleled service includes extended business hours: Monday to Friday 8am-8pm, Saturdays 9am4pm and Sundays 11am-2pm. Find out more at www.monks.co.uk or call us on 01691 674 567.

Immaculate detached bungalow that has been extended and renovated to a high standard to create a beautiful, bright spacious home in great cul de sac location. Two double bedrooms, lounge, kitchen, dining room, utility, shower room and third bedroom/ sitting room. Well-maintained

and deceptively spacious three-bedroom country cottage set in wonderful grounds extending to approximately 3 acres. With many character features and two modern extensions, Holly Cottage oozes charm and is immaculately presented. The gardens are awash with mature shrubs and trees.

£165,000

Llanrhaeadr YM Mochnant £425,000

Interiors

by Stephanie Dhillon

Kitchen gardens

Kitchen Gardens can be achieved by anyone, anywhere. Whether you live in a small compact urban space or have a modest sized outdoor plot, the variety of methods in which to grow and nurture vegetables are endless. From differing sized containers, raised veg troughs that fit under kitchen windows, to trellises for vertical growth, there are so many creative ways to grow your own food. Here are some ideas to inspire your green fingers.

Top to bottom: Tea Towel - Kitchen Garden £5.95 from Rex London  www.rexlondon.com

Sophie Allport Dragonfly Tool Set £33.50 from Sophie Allport  www.sophieallport.com

York Hexagonal Planter £124.49 from Forest www.forestgarden.co.uk

Large Kitchen Garden Planter 1.8m £155.99 from Forest  www.forestgarden.co.uk

Left: Trellis Planter £95.49 from Forest www.forestgarden.co.uk

Clockwise from above: Barrington Stand for Herb Kitchen (without pots) £170 from Soto Gardens www.sotogardens.com

Dig the Garden Picnic Plate £11.95 from Annabel James  www.annabeljames.co.uk

Kitchen Garden Cloche £79.99 from Agriframes  www.agriframes.co.uk

Small Garden Tool Basket Gard in Antique Wash £29 from Cotswold Company www.cotswoldco.com

Kitchen Garden Trough £149.99 from Forest  www.forestgarden.co.uk

June in the garden

by Graham Mitchell

Hey, June already! We were so busy during May that it went in a flash. The longest day isn’t far away, so we are getting nice long evenings to enjoy the garden. The extra light and warmer days mean that everything is taking off. The wet and cool April tended to slow things down, but it’s full steam ahead now.

I’m not sure how your tulips were this spring but mine were a disaster. Anyhow, now’s the time to lift and store the bulbs for next year. It’s also time to give the spring flowering perennials a trim to keep the plants compact and encourage more flowering growth for next year. As the flowers and vegetables spring onto growth, so do the weeds. It can be rather discouraging to see your nice tidy beds suddenly sprout with undesirables. The best way is to

hoe every few days. Chose a small hoe and be very careful, otherwise you’ll chop off your new, expensive bedding plants.

It’s always nice to have height in the garden rather than all low ground hugging plants. Tall plants like delphiniums, lupins, hollyhocks, and gladioli add that extra dimension, but are prone to damage from the wind. Make sure they are securely staked, especially in open areas of the garden. The same goes for climbers like Clematis montana and climbing roses. Ensure they are tied into the framework as they can get very heavy, and a gust of wind can bring the whole plant down.

I’m sure you will be topping up the garden and vegetable patch with bought specimens from garden centres and the market, but there’s

still time to sow some seeds. Inside you can start off flower plants for next spring, but you can still direct sow flowers for some extra late summer colour. Try Nigella, Zinnia and Calendula. Nasturtiums will germinate and flower quickly and will add colour and a bit of spice to salads.

Tall Hollyhocks add an extra dimension to your planting

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR LIFE’S UNCERTAINTIES?

Many of you likely have insurance for your homes, cars, and perhaps even your mobile phones, but have you considered safeguarding your income and health?

The thought of falling ill, being made redundant, or unexpectedly losing a loved one, is something none of us want to dwell on, and understandably so.

But they are things we need to consider if we want to protect ourselves and our family financially.

One of the most useful ways to help do this is income protection.

This type of cover has been specifically created to provide you with a regular, tax-free monthly payment if you can’t work due to illness or injury (typically giving you around 60% of your gross pay). These will then continue until you can return to work, or the policy comes to an end, giving you a safety net to help cover bills and outgoings until you are back on your feet.

Critical illness cover, on the other hand, provides you with a one-off tax-free, lump sum of money if you suffer a critical illness listed by the policy provider. Not everyone will need both this and income protection, but if you have any debts, are paying a sizable mortgage that your income protection insurance wouldn’t cover or need to make any adaptations to your home it could be invaluable.

W e b s i t e M a n a g e m e n t

H e l p a n d S u p p o r t

E n d p o i n t M a n a g e m e n t

S e c u r e D

Lastly, life insurance gives you the comfort of knowing your loved ones will be looked after if you suddenly pass away. Current research estimates that around 63% of people don’t, however, have this in place which means there are thousands of families who could struggle to cope financially if they, or their partner, died. Life insurance takes these worries away and provides stability even if you can’t be there.

For help finding the right protection for you and your family, call Belgrave Wincham on 01691 886554 for expert advice that’s tailor-made for you.

executors

Q: My mum prepared a will prior to her death, appointing me and both my brothers as her executors. One of my brothers was recently diagnosed with cancer and my other brother lives in Canada. It is therefore not possible for us all to get together to sign any paperwork. Could I alone apply for probate?

A: It is not necessary for every executor named in a will to be appointed as an executor by the Probate Registry. For the purposes of probate, some executors can have power reserved to them, which means the postponement of their right to the grant of probate. This does not mean them completely relinquishing their rights as an executor, as they can still apply for probate at a later date should the need arise.

Formal notice must be given to an executor when they are acting with power reserved. Your solicitor can assist with this. Power can be reserved to one or more executors provided there is still one executor left to make an application for a grant of probate.

In your case, the role of executor may be too time consuming and demanding on both your brothers and the administration of the estate may be delayed if you have to send paperwork to and from Canada, to make the application, or collect in the assets. Therefore, either or both of your brothers could abandon their right to becoming an executor by signing a renunciation witnessed by an independent witness who has no interest in the estate.

One of the conditions allowing a renunciation is that the executor should not have inter-meddled with the estate, i.e. they have not assumed any administrative responsibilities and started to handle any of the funds. As it appears that neither of your brothers have yet had any dealings with the estate, both options of power reserved and renunciation are open to you should you wish to make an application for probate in your sole name.

This question has been answered by Jessica Wright, a Solicitor with GHP Legal.  If you would like to speak to someone about this or any other legal matter, please visit our website www.ghplegal. com and use the contact us form, or call us on: Wrexham 01978 291456, Llangollen 01978 860313, Oswestry 01691 659194

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PUZZLE PAGE

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

Across

1. Give up work and go to bed (6)

5. Inform Tony if there’s a change (6)

10. New lace – it’s stretchy (7)

11. Road not affected by a whirlwind (7)

12. East, torn, ie ripped apart (6)

15. Sheep breed more in confusion (6)

16. Down payment arranged topside (7)

17. Pitch seen in stones (4)

18. Reversible action (4)

19. Two vehicles either side of a trailer (7)

20. Crazy article about Eve’s guy (4)

22. Come next, holding sign of something about to happen (4)

25. Herb cut up for meat seller (7)

27. Samples the flavour of unfamiliar states (6)

28. Alarm head teachers by mistake (6)

31. Human nature of a sort following a chap (7)

32. Untie or wrap in the usual way (7)

33. Flush communist hideaway (6)

34. Lyrical epic to sabotage (6)

Down

2. Topless kinsman causing delight (7)

3. Trendy nurse becoming mean (6)

4. Ache wildly for every single one (4)

5. Fools future head lice (4)

6. Change gear in race for goal (6)

7. If large, it’s easily broken (7)

8. News item with little about a harbour (6)

9. Do go on, it’s somehow wrong! (2-4)

13. Disease set aunt in turmoil (7)

14. No charm about this ruler (7)

15. Time ran out for the mosque tower (7)

20. Breathing disorder when mat has been shaken out (6)

21. Alternative bees can lack (7)

23. I follow this man for a cocktail (7)

24. Anxiety when Severn flows in a different way (6)

25. Live animal at the back (6)

26. Rubbish to decline (6)

29. Exploding with a god inside (4)

30. Portion set up for a snare (4)

Erratum: We apologise for the confusion caused in last month’s crossword where the wrong set of clues was published.

SOLUTIONS

PARKS AND GARDENS

1. Which Berkshire town features in the name of the largest public park in the UK?

2. Tivoli Gardens is an amusement park located in which European capital city?

3. Who wrote the novel Jurassic Park?

4. Sometimes referred to as “England’s greatest gardener”, the 18th century gardener Lancelot Brown is more commonly known by what nickname?

5. The Green Man Festival is a music, science and arts festival that is held annually in which UK national park?

6. Who sang lead vocals on the Beatles song Octopus’s Garden?

7. What are the first names of the four boys who are the main characters on the TV show “South Park”?

8. Who designed the first Blue Peter garden in 1974 and was the regular gardener on the show from then until 1987?

9. Serpentine Bridge marks the boundary between which two Royal Parks of London?

10. According to legend, what three words did a particular type of flower cry out as Adam and Eve left the Garden of Eden and it didn’t have a name?

and Kensington Gardens, 10. Forget me not

(as in Windsor Great Park), 2. Copenhagen, 3. Michael Crichton, 4. Capability Brown, 5. The Brecon Beacons, 6. Ringo Starr, 7. Eric,

1.

31 Mankind, 32 Routine, 33 Redden, 34 Poetic. Down: 2 Elation, 3 Intend, 4 Each, 5 Nits, 6 Target, 7 Fragile, 8 Report, 9 No-good, 13 Tetanus, 14 Monarch, 15 Minaret, 20 Asthma, 21 Absence, 23 Martini, 24 Nerves, 25 Behind, 26 Refuse, 29 Odin, 30 Trap.

27 Tastes, 28

crossword Across: 1 Retire, 5 Notify, 10 Elastic, 11 Tornado, 12 Orient, 15 Merino, 16 Deposit, 17 Tone, 18 Deed, 19 Caravan, 20 Adam, 22 Omen, 25

Butcher,

Terror,

quiz

Windsor

Kenny, Stan and Kyle, 8. Percy Thrower, 9. Hyde Park

IS IT TIMe To RevIew youR fInanCeS?

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