Oswestry Life March 2018

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free issue 13 march 2018

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Rambles with a camera • One year on • • Sparkly Spring Walks around Oswestry It’s our birthday! new season fashion

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| Oswestry life

Contents

Welcome

Local news......................................... 4

to Oswestry Life

Oswestry Life anniversary............... 10 In the spotlight................................. 13 Out and about................................. 15 Property............................................ 20

Welcome to the thirteenth edition of Oswestry Life magazine. Now officially one year old, we’re really starting to find our feet and establish ourselves as the leading glossy magazine in the area. In fact, we can’t believe how far we’ve come.

Interiors............................................. 24

Thanks for sticking with us through our 12-month journey; giving us your feedback, contributing to our features and advertising on our pages. We couldn’t do it without you!

Food and Drink................................ 48

Gardening........................................ 35 Local walks...................................... 36 Education......................................... 37 Fashion............................................. 46

Business............................................ 52 Health............................................... 55

This month we’ve got all your regular favourites, plus we shine a spotlight on two local not-to-be-missed events; The Wilfred Owen Festival and Midnight Ride.

Culture.............................................. 56

Enjoy the read!

Kids fun............................................ 64

Charlotte Ruscoe EDITOR

Nostalgia.......................................... 58 Motoring........................................... 59

Competitions.................................... 65 Last word.......................................... 66

Oswestry Life

free issue 13 march 2018

march cover

Cover photograph Cambrian Railway Works from Llwyn Coppice

by Graham Mitchell

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Unit 2, Glovers Meadow, Maesbury Road, Oswestry, Shropshire Telephone: 07986 293294 Joint Managing Directors Tracy Leonard e: tracy@oswestrylife.co.uk David Lee-Birch e: david@oswestrylife.co.uk Editor Charlotte Ruscoe e: charlotte@oswestrylife.co.uk Production Designer Aileen Selkirk e: aileen@oswestrylife.co.uk Fashion & Beauty Editor Victoria Jane McKenna Contributors Graham Mitchell, David Owen, Dr Paul Middleton, Jan Hedger, Katie Millard and Grace Goodlad Accounts and Distribution e: info@oswestrylife.co.uk Advertising e: sales@oswestrylife.co.uk Editorial e: news@oswestrylife.co.uk

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with a camera • One year on Sparkly Spring • Rambles • new season fashion Walks around Oswestry It’s our birthday!

Oswestry Life is published by DTS Media. The views expressed within this publication do not necessarily reflect those of DTS Media. The reproduction of any material in this magazine is forbidden without the written consent of the publisher. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, DTS Media can in no way accept liability for omissions or incorrect insertions or any consequences arising from use of this publication. © DTS Media Ltd. 2018

Local news

Hope house staff celebrate 20 years with the children’s charity

Twelve members of staff at Oswestry’s Hope House Children’s Hospice have been presented with long service awards by the charity.

Chief Executive Andy Goldsmith thanked them for their dedication and said their commitment was greatly appreciated.

Living history event Bring history to life this Easter with a trip to Park Hall for their World War I and II living history weekend on 31 March to 2 April.

The event will feature WW2 living history displays with re-enactors dressed in authentic uniform, displaying original equipment and weapons.

The family-friendly event will include an Easter egg hunt and lots of activities for children.

Booked online tickets cost £8.95 or £33.95 for a family of four.

Concessions £7.95.

Visit: www. parkhallfarm. co.uk to book tickets or search ‘trenches through the ages’ on facebook to find the event there.

Golf club comps open Oswestry Golf Club have announced their 2018 open event schedule.

The ladies, mens, seniors and mixed events kick off this month with the Spring 4BBB taking place on 16 march for individuals and pairs. Visit www.oswestrygolfclub.co.uk to find out more.

4 | Oswestrylife life 4 | Oswestry

“Their work as a team enables Hope House to provide vital care and support and counselling to hundreds of families across the region that are caring for a terminally ill child or who have been bereaved,” he added.

Twenty Year Service Awards were presented to Karen Wright, director of care; Jan Langley, play leader; Rachel Thomas, senior nurse team Leader; Alex Watkin, physiotherapist; David Riffel, nurse and Steve Tudhope, trusts administrator.

Ten Year Service Awards were presented to Kathy Hilton, nurse; Clare East, clinical practice facilitator; Mike Coulson, lottery administrator; Sarah Hughes, lottery administrator; Janet Farrington, Nantwich shop manager; Janette Curliss, Welshpool shop manager.

Pictured from left, Barbara Evans, Steve Tudhope, Jan Langley, Karen Wright, Rachel Thomas, Steve Henly.

Apprentice joins 100-year celebration

A year 11 student from The Marches School was invited to mark a Shropshire motor dealer’s centenary year last week at their Oswestry showroom, attended by over 50 members of staff and associates.

16-year-old Thomas Simmonds who has been combining his studies with real life work experience with the family-owned motor group Furrows, as part of The Marches Apprenticeship Programme, was overjoyed to be invited to cut the cake in honour of their 100-year anniversary.

Thomas was asked to cut the cake alongside business owner, Jane Coward and general manager, Richard Pettener at the celebration event. Jane Coward commented, “As we reflect upon our past successes we also look forward to the future and welcome one of our newest recruits Thomas Simmonds into the Furrows family.”

Simi’s Middle Eastern Feasts Pop Up in Oswestry

dishes full of flavour from all over the Middle East including peeling every chickpea that goes into the Israeli Hummus which has become a firm favourite with those who have attended the feasts before.

A local woman is celebrating her love for her childhood food by hosting an excitingly authentic Middle Eastern Feast in Oswestry on 10 March.

Simi Epstein, who has lived in Whittington for ten years, grew up eating delicious dishes such as Rasel Hanout chicken and Persian rice cooked by her Israeli mum.

Simi loves to cook her traditional family dishes for friends, but decided to branch out and try a Pop Up Middle Eastern Feast in Shrewsbury at the end of last year. It was a sell-out success, which has prompted Simi to arrange another Pop Up Feast at Carriages Restaurant in Oswestry this month.

“Shropshire has many good places to eat and drink and people from around here are definitely foodies who love to try new things so I can’t wait to share my Middle Eastern Feast with my guests.”

“I grew up eating Middle Eastern food because my mum’s family are from Israel, but when I moved to the area it wasn’t available anywhere near here so I realised I was going to have to learn how to cook it myself,” says Simi.

Included on the menu will be traditional dishes including Spicy Chicken Wings from Palestine, Persian Onion, butter and pine nut rice and the smoothest hummus from Israel drizzled with olive oil, parsley, pine nuts and a touch of paprika.

“Over the last 10 years I have spent hours, sometimes even days preparing and perfecting

Tickets for the event cost £25 per person. Call The Carriages on 01691 652521 to book.

Making waves for dignity

Hop to it!

Registration is now open for Oswestry Bunny Run, which takes place on 8 April 2018. It is the third year of the 5k charity fun run, where participants are able to enjoy the beautiful green spaces in Oswestry and support local charities.

Students at Derwen College, in Gobowen, made waves for Dignity Action Day, on a visit to Morris Care Centre, in Wellington.

This year the Bunny Run is supporting The Movement Centre. The Oswestry based charity provides a specialist therapy, called Targeted Training, to children who face problems with their movement control. By attending The Movement Centre, children can gain head control, so they can interact with their family; it can help children develop the skills to sit unaided, so that they can play with their friends. For some children it can enable them to walk, which means they can be far more independent.

“The concept of the Bunny Run was to raise money for local charities as well as connecting the community through sport,” said James Manford, Co-organiser of Oswestry Bunny Run. “This year, the Bunny Run is proud to donate all profits to The Movement Centre for their work supporting children with movement disabilities.”

You don’t need to be a competitive runner to take part in the event.

Participants of all ages are welcome, including four-legged friends! Fancy dress is encouraged, but not essential.

To take part in the event you can register online at www.bunnyrun.co.uk.

The entry price is £10.50 for adults and £5.50 for children, with all profits going to The Movement Centre.

Pictured above: Pauline Holbrook of The Movement Centre with Jac Porter and organiser James Manford

The college’s Derwen On Tour (DOT) group visited the centre to perform a Mexican wave and a signed Makaton song and dance routine for the residents. The show was greatly received, and the students enjoyed performing and chatting with the residents after the performance.

The show was put on as part of Telford & Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG)’s Dignity Day celebrations with the theme of ‘Making Waves for Dignity’.

Lydia Tyanase, Clinical Services Manager, said: “We were absolutely delighted when DOT approached us. Our residents thoroughly enjoyed the performance and we look forward to welcoming the students back again.”

Oswestry life | 5

Rotary clubs together to eradicate polio From left, Jamie Hands of Fieldbounce, Andrew Faulks of Stans Supermarket and Tawanda Melusi of Fieldbounce

Festival partnership announced Fieldbounce Music Festival has announced a partnership with popular local independent supermarket Stans.

The music festival’s debut will take place on Saturday 5 May at The Venue, Park Hall and the event promises to be a fantastic day for all the family with the line-up including headliners Scouting for Girls, Fuse ODG, Dappy and Danny Howard. Also taking to the stage will be a range of Shropshire’s local talented artists who will join the headliners in making the festival a great success.

Fieldbounce are delighted to be working in partnership with Stans Supermarket of St Martins who is an official ticket outlet for the festival. Purchasers of a general admission Fieldbounce ticket from Stans will receive £5 voucher towards their next shop, and £10 voucher when purchasing a VIP ticket.

Visit: www.fieldbounce.co.uk to find out more.

The three Rotary Club’s of Oswestry recently came together at the town’s Kinoculture cinema to support the eradication of Polio.

For the past 30 years The Rotary, in conjunction with other organisations including the Bill Gates Foundation, have helped to get closer to the goal and have reduced Polio cases by 99.9% in that time.

The clubs watched the movie Breathe, an inspiring true story of a young man smitten by Polio in the 1950s and his quest to change people’s perception of disability and be treated as other human beings in society.

Pictured are left to right: Justin Sopa (Oswestry), Sherie Sopa (Borderland), Ian Slipper (Cambrian), Beryl Cotton (Rotary District Governor)

Membership for all We now offer a range of membership options designed to make joining our friendly, beautiful club simpler for all. What are you waiting for?

To learn more visit oswestrygolfclub.co.uk or call the club on 01691 610535 6

| Oswestry life

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Meet the team!

The Cambrian Pharmacy would like to thank all their customers for all their support over the last 5 years.

Andy, Lead driver.

Back row left to right Kirstin, Tracey, Danielle, Kelly, Rowena, Tash.

Front row left to right- Lilly, Zoe, Carrie, Sophie, Amy.

As a Pharmacy we provide a FREE Delivery Service, Electronic Prescription Service, New Medicine Service, Medicine Use Reviews, the Common Ailments Scheme and Healthy Start Vitamins.

Pharmacy opening hoursMon to Fri 7am - 11pm Sat and Sunday 8am - 6pm Open until late and 7 days a week to suit all needs.

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Tel: 01691 670292 LET

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Call us on: 01691 238 032 oswestry@coversure.co.uk | www.coversure.co.uk/oswestry Coversure Insurance Services, 12-14 Beatrice Street, Oswestry, SY11 1QG

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FREE ISSUE 1 SPRING 2017

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OSWESTRY LIFE IS ONE YEAR OLD!

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The Guide The Guide to local connections 2018/2019 to local connections 2018

FASHION

FORWARD

BEAUTY

HAIR L AG O M

YOUR LIFE

CRACKING EASTER GIFTS

COMPETITIONS

Clubs services

orGanisaTions

WIN A WEDDING GOWN & GROOMSWEAR from WEDDING WORLD & MARTIN DAVID See page 53

shops

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informaTion

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We’re vocal about local in AreAs

We’re vocal about local in Bridgnorth & & District Oswestry surrOunding

CELEBRATING OSWESTRY LIFE Congratulations! Having already been familiar with its principals we had no hesitation in giving our support to Oswestry Life from the beginning and have not been disappointed with the support we have received in return.

Well done all of you!

Mr Richard Lloyd, senior partner GHP Legal

CELEBRATING OSWESTRY LIFE J & I Carpets wish Oswestry Life continued success in the future. We appreciate your help with compiling our advert for your well-presented publications. You keep in touch and support local business on social media etc. We speak to customers who receive each issue on a regular basis and this gives us confidence to advertise!

W

e didn’t want to let the opportunity pass by to remind our readers that this month marks our first birthday.

We’ve come a long way since our initial meetings in Liar Liar. We’ve designed, written and edited nearly 1000 pages. We’ve delivered 84,000 copies to homes all around the town and surrounding villages. We’ve showcased the best our area has to offer, highlighted great causes and promoted spectacular events.

We’ve indulged your hobbies and

We’re thriving today thanks to the support from all the fabulous independent businesses who got behind us, many from the very first issue

Janet Walker, J&I Carpets

CELEBRATING OSWESTRY LIFE

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interests; from cooking and fashion to rambling and nostalgia. We’ve launched a thriving, sustainable publication and in turn helped

Joint Managing Directors Tracy Leonard and David Lee-Birch

launch many other businesses in the town, supporting, promoting and getting people talking about them.

We’re true to our name, we’re vocal about local and we aim to be at the centre of Oswestry life. We’re thriving today thanks to the support from all

We are blessed to have such a focused, high quality and most importantly positive publication dedicated to our town and area.

This publication is light relief, to all the dour and gloomy news we have to contend with these days.

It offers a great deal of pleasure to flick through the pages and see so much positivity. All my praise to the editorial team and long may this local success story continue.

Happy first birthday! We are proud to be associated with Oswestry Life and look forward to seeing the progression of the magazine. All the team have been supportive and easy to work with. Wishing OL all the best for the next year!

The Marches School would like to wish the team at Oswestry Life a very happy birthday. Always a pleasure to work with and their passion resonates through the publication. Congratulations on a successful year.

Clive Knowles, chairman, British Ironwork Centre

Victoria Evans, marketing manager, Oswestry School

Kelly Parsons, marketing manager, The Marches School

| Oswestry life

CELEBRATING OSWESTRY LIFE

CELEBRATING OSWESTRY LIFE

CELEBRATING OSWESTRY LIFE We are honoured to be part of an exceptional local magazine run by this professional and dedicated partnership: Tracy and David. We congratulate them on their first year celebration and wish them continued success. Many thanks for everything you have done.

All at Cambrian House Emporium

CELEBRATING OSWESTRY LIFE Hot on the heels of Oswestry Life magazine, we launched It’s Beautiful and more recently The Guide to Local Connections. A further commitment to the area and its businesses. a magazine for advertisers, our regular columns on everything from mortgage advice to healthcare provide expert advice and opinion.

While our special features shine a spotlight on people, organisations, charities and groups doing great things in the town and beyond.

the fabulous independent businesses who got behind us, many from the very first issue and in turn we continue to support them by shouting about their products and services.

Our loyal readers also have their part to play. We don’t just produce

CELEBRATING OSWESTRY LIFE

Hot on the heels of Oswestry Life magazine, we launched It’s Beautiful Shropshire and more recently The Guide to Local Connections. A further commitment to the area and its businesses. It’s been an exciting year and as we continue to go from strength to strength we hope you stick with us and enjoy our publications as much as we enjoy making them.

CELEBRATING OSWESTRY LIFE

We are delighted to support Oswestry Life, both Tracy and David are a pleasure to work with; the magazine is of an excellent quality, it is packed with interesting articles and features relevant to the Oswestry area.

We would like to wish Oswestry Life all the best for the future and thank them for the fantastic service they have provided to us over the last year. The staff are always super friendly and ready to help. Good luck for the future.

Amanda Jones, Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors

Dan and Steve at Pure Electrics & Pure Energy Ltd

Happy first birthday, Oswestry Life!

Thanks for the quality service that we have received over the last 12 months and supporting the local business.

Hannah McArdle, Richmond Harvey Estate Agents

CELEBRATING OSWESTRY LIFE Oswestry Life is a great little monthly magazine, MMP have advertised in it from the beginning and have found the whole team so helpful. People seem to really appreciate the fact that its packed full of truly local articles and advertisers. Happy 1st birthday.

Keep up the good work!

Barbara Jones, Morris Marshall & Poole

CELEBRATING OSWESTRY LIFE Moreton Hall wishes Oswestry Life a happy first birthday! It’s been a pleasure working with you, long may it continue!

Richard Briggs, communications development manager, Moreton Hall

CELEBRATING OSWESTRY LIFE Oswestry Life - there’s something in it for everyone, and it’s a great magazine to promote our business, we wish them continued success in the future.

Sian, Cambrian Fireplaces

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Leg St, Oswestry SY11 2NN 12 | Oswestry life

In the spotlight

Charity bike ride returns An ex team GB triathlete from Oswestry is planning his fourth Midnight Ride event in the town this summer and is looking for keen cyclists and volunteers to join him to make the occasion a success.

The unique event will see riders cycle from Oswestry through Welshpool to Lake Vyrnwy and back to Oswestry – in total around 85 miles, leaving at midnight and returning at sunrise on Sunday 24 June.

Event organiser Alan Lewis (41) has been cycling for over 20 years and has competed in many long-distance endurance events around the country away from his civil service job with the Sports Council. He started the Midnight Ride event in 2015 in a bid to offer something unique for riders to experience.

“Participants of Midnight Ride vary from nervous first-timers of all ages through to competitive cyclists.

We aim to bring together an active community of people who take part

“We’ve managed to get a lot of support this year, especially from Tweek Cycles, Furrows who are supplying support cars and CS Physiotherapy who will be keeping the riders safe.” for different reasons ranging from fitness, competition, charity, health, fun or simply to finish,” says Alan.

In previous years the event has been fairly low key with around 50 riders.

The 2018 event is shifting up a gear though and thanks to a little help from some new partners and with a new

infrastructure in place, Alan hopes to attract around 200-300 riders.

“We’ve managed to get a lot of support this year, especially from Tweek Cycles, Furrows who are supplying support cars and CS Physiotherapy who will be keeping the riders safe. The staff I’ve got helping me to organise this are very good cycling pedigree, having competed in events around the world including the World Triathlon Championships and have been involved in the Olympic Games in London and the World Cup Track Cycling Championships last year.”

Anyone can sign up for the ride, although given the 85-mile journey, a very good level of fitness is definitely recommended. Riders will need a roadworthy bike (mountain bikes and hybrids are acceptable) with front and rear lights, must be medically fit and should consult their GP before riding if they have a history of injury or illness. Riders must be over the age of 16, wear a fluro cycling top and a recognised helmet and have a buddy to ride with.

“The concept of leaving at midnight and arriving back to see the sunrise is appealing to many riders,” says Alan. “It’s also very safe, much safer than riding in the day as there is much less traffic to worry

about. Powerful bike lights are now available that are as bright as car lights and will light the way.”

The event’s charity partner is Severn Hospice, who Alan has previously

“The concept of leaving at midnight and arriving back to see the sunrise is appealing to many riders. It’s also very safe, much safer than riding in the day as there is much less traffic to worry about.” raised over £30,000 for and is close to his heart following the care given to his mother and grandfather.

Taking part in Midnight Ride 2018 costs just £40 which includes entry to the event, free parking, a goodie bag and a hearty breakfast on return. There will also be some spot prizes which include a cycling holiday for two to Italy.

If you can’t take part but would still like to be involved, the Midnight Riders are on the lookout for volunteers to help the event run smoothly. Important jobs like bike ride registration, mid-ride food stops, and ride marshals are all up for grabs.

To find out more, visit the website which was sponsored by Certa Hosting: www.midnightride.co.uk or call 07595 031333 to speak to the event’s organiser Alan Lewis.

Oswestry life | 13

Advertisement feature

Annual spring lambing day preparations underway North Shropshire College (NSC) is planning for its annual Spring Lambing Day event which will take place at the Walford Campus on Sunday 25 March from 10.30am - 4.30pm.

In addition to the lambs who are the stars of the show, the event offers a variety of fantastic attractions for families to take part in. On the farm, visitors will be able to watch a futuristic robotic milking machine in action, along with the farm animals being fed. This year there will also be a lamb cuddle corner and a pony club equine display.

The fun doesn’t stop there, on the adjacent side of the campus there will be a range of exciting activities taking place including live music in the walled garden, face painting, a climbing wall and the Walford Zoo will be open where alpacas, meerkats, reptiles and marmoset monkeys live.

Lucy Evans, marketing and customer service manager at NSC said: “The day offers a wonderful and affordable experience with a wide range of activities to take part in suitable for all the family! Visitors can expect to see lots of lambs and every year there are new lambs arriving for those lucky

enough to be in the right place at the right time. We can’t wait to build on the previous years’ success and are looking forward to another fun filled Spring Lambing Day.” If you would like to have a stall or host an activity at the event, contact Penny Hardy on p.hardy@nsc.ac.uk or 01939 262187. Visitors can park on Campus (SY4 2HL) or use the Park and Ride, visit the www.nsc. ac.uk to find out more.

Activities on the day include face painting; Chloe Edwards, school liaison and marketing co-ordinator at NSC, with a new arrival at the Walford Campus Farm.

COME ALONG TO OUR SPRING LAMBING DAY Here is a taste of what’s on offer...

New-born Lambs - you may even see a lamb being born if you are lucky!

Come and see our animals, we have over 90 species from Snakes and Chinchillas to Meerkats and Alpacas!

We also have Pony Rides, Treasure Hunt, Climbing Wall, Face Painting, Vintage Machinery, Porthywaen Silver Band, Milking Display and much, much more!

Sunday 25th March 10.30am - 4.00pm 11.30am - New Milk Vending Machine Grand Opening Walford Campus, Baschurch FREE parking at Walford Campus or park and ride

01939 262100 14 | Oswestry life

Just £10 per car / family on foot #WalfordLambing

WWW.NSC.AC.UK

Out&about

Information on these pages is provided in good faith but we cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. Please check on dates and times before making any commitments

Until 4 March

YOUTH MUSIC FESTIVAL Over 300 talented young performers compete in this respected competition aimed at encouraging musical development. There is a huge number of classes using various instruments. The performances are free to watch and are held in local venues concluding with the Sunday final at Christ Church. www.oswestry-tc.gov.uk Telephone: 01691 680222

Mon-Sat until 7 April

‘PAINTING WITH WORDS’ EXHIBITION Willow Gallery, Oswestry Art exhibition inspired by poetry and literature featuring artists of all media types; Free admission 9.30am-5pm 01691 657575; willowgalleryoswestry@gmail.com

2 March

TIME TO LISTEN: “TAKE ME BACK TO MONTGOMERYSHIRE” Oswestry Library, Arthur St Celebrating St David’s day - Come and listen to readings from two Montgomeryshire authors, Beryl Vaughan and D.A.Lloyd.

2pm-3pm. Free.

01691 677388

2 March (6-week course)

TAI CHI Qube, Oswald Road, Oswestry 10.30am-11.30am or 11.45am-12.45pm Tutor: James Lanyon £55 01691 656882 www.qube-oca.org.uk

2, 16 & 30 March

‘WOW’ WORDS ‘N’ PICS OPEN WRITERS Community Room, Llwyn Fields, (off Llwyn Rd) Oswestry, SY11 1HG - with flat access, disabled facilities and kitchen available.

Creative writing – beginners and all abilities welcome. Meeting fortnightly 1– 3pm.

16 March will be a trip to Cambrian Antiques centre Interactive workshops and full support, Contact Jan on 07702 165717 or email janhedger7@googlemail.com

3 March

CUSHION MAKING FOR BEGINNERS Qube, Oswald Road, Oswestry 9.30am-12.30pm Tutor: Claire Mahoney £30 01691 656882 www.qube-oca.org.uk

5, 12, 19 & 26 March

BOOK BREAK SHARED READING GROUP Qube, Oswald Road, Oswestry 2pm-3.30pm Free 01691 656882 www.qube-oca.org.uk

10 March

6 March

LOVING VINCENT (12) Kinokulture Cinema, Oswestry Acclaimed animated drama set around the death of artist Vincent Van Gogh. Each of the film’s 65,000 animated frames are oil paintings, painstakingly created by a team of 100 painters. The finished product is an extraordinary work that demands to be seen on the big screen. 7.30pm www.oswestryfilmsociety.com

SPRING COFFEE MORNING Ellesmere Town Hall Come along at 10am and enjoy tea, coffee and biscuits all included in the ticket price. The most delicious cake can be purchased on the day, kindly donated by Ellesmere College. Purchase your spring blooms from Knolton Nurseries and enjoy browsing various other stalls. A raffle and other fundraising activities will also be held on the day. Tickets are just £1 and can be purchased from Ellesmere Friends of Hope House Committee Members or Ismays Ellesmere and Rainbows Ellesmere.

10 March & 31 March

LIFE DRAWING Qube, Oswald Road, Oswestry 10am-12pm £6 01691 656882 www.qube-oca.org.uk

6 March (4-week course)

PILATES Qube, Oswald Road, Oswestry 10-10.45am Tutor: Jill Graham £35 01691 656882 www.qube-oca.org.uk

7 March

HEARING AID CLINIC Drop in to Oswestry Library for hearing aid tube changing, battery collection and advice on hearing aid care. Every first Wednesday of the month. 10am. Run by NHS trained volunteers 01691 677388

8 March

POETRY LIVE Oswestry Library, Arthur St Dave Andrews our Reader/Writer in Residence discusses and reads a selection from the popular BBC anthology ‘The Nation’s Favourite Poems’. Dave’s talk lasts for one hour, followed by an optional second hour for further readings and discussion. A Learning at Lunchtime event.

Please book with library staff. £4. 12pm-2pm. 01691 677388

9 March

A REVIEW OF RECENT ARCHAEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS IN SHROPSHIRE WITH ANDY WIGLEY Oswestry Methodist Church Hall, Castle Street, Oswestry Organised by Oswestry & Border History & Archaeology Dr Wigley’s overview will focus on recent archaeological work that has been carried out across Shropshire in advance of development. Examining Neolithic sites, Bronze Age and Roman cementations, medieval town defences and 20th century power stations, his talk should provide a range of new insights into Shropshire’s rich and diverse archaeological heritage. Members £1 – non-members £3.

7.30pm – 9pm.

Contact Derek Williams on 01691 661793 or email obhag@histarch.uk

11 March

GABRIELLE DUCOMBLE Hermon Chapel, Chapel St, Oswestry Now a firm favourite in her adopted UK, talented vocalist Gabrielle Ducomble brings a special blend of Gallic charm and sophistication to the British jazz scene.

For more information call 01691 662 196 www.hermonchapel.com

13 March

PLANNING YOUR STORY WITH LOCAL AUTHOR MARI ANNE COPE Oswestry Library, Arthur St Horror writer Mari Anne Cope will guide you along a journey to planning your novel.

This talk will give you the tools and inspiration to get to chapter 1.

A learning at Lunchtime event. Please book with library staff. 12.30pm-1pm. £3.

01691 677388

13 & 27 March

TIME TO LISTEN Oswestry Library, Arthur St Visit Oswestry library to relax and listen to poetry and stories read out loud by the staff.

Enjoy meeting people in an informal setting at the library and being read to. No need to book.

2pm. Free. 01691 677388

14 March

CUSTOMER SERVICE EXCELLENCE Qube, Oswald Road, Oswestry 9.30am-1.00pm Tutor: Heather Noble £20 01691 656882 www.qube-oca.org.uk

Oswestry life | 15

making videos using her thumbs as actors.

From this unlikely setting comes one of the best British independent films of recent years. www.oswestryfilmsociety.com

20 March

15 March

HERMON FOLK: EDGELARKS Hermon Chapel, Chapel St, Oswestry The Hermon proudly presents the BBC Award-Winning Duo ‘Edgelarks’ as opening act for the venue’s new 2018 Folk series!

Their new project ‘Edgelarks’ blends violinand vocals-based British traditional music with Indian classical slide guitar, stomping beatbox and harmonica to blistering effect.

The eponymous new album has the pair’s strong stem of original writing running throughout and runs wilder with every play.

A spirited duo full of integrity and exquisite musicianship – a must see!

For more information call 01691 662 196 www.hermonchapel.com

WRITING SURGERY WITH READER/ WRITER IN RESIDENCE DAVE ANDREWS Oswestry Library, Arthur St The surgery is an opportunity for anyone interested in writing to talk informally with Dave about their own work or ideas.

Dave is also happy to talk to readers about his particular interests – literature and language.

11am. Call 01691 677388

22 March

Oswestry Castle: recent archaeological findings and their significance Oswestry Library, Arthur St Join Roger Cooper, archaeologist and member of the Castle Studies Group, for an update on the new discovery of an Anglo-Norman keep on Oswestry Castle.

12.30pm-1.30pm. £3.

A Learning at Lunchtime event. Book with library staff.

01691 677388

17 March

DRUMMING WORKSHOP WITH RICK WILSON Hermon Chapel, Chapel St, Oswestry Although no previous experience in drumming is necessary, those with some will certainly find interesting challenges awaiting them: part rhythms, body rhythms, group rhythms, all sorts of rhythms.

Rick has studied drumming in India and also brings a sensibility of styles from Africa and South America, complemented by his own original interpretation of all things rhythmic.

Expect a joyful noise - no better way to spend a Saturday lunchtime! Bring a drum if you have one but, if not, instruments will be at hand.

Adults and children welcome. Book your place to avoid disappointment!

For more information call 01691 662 196 www.hermonchapel.com

18 March

WORKSHOP: SPEED PAINTING & DRAWING with DAVID BANNISTER Dunbabin Room, Willow Gallery, Oswestry Sharpen your observational drawing skills and see what you can create in 3, 30 or 60 minutes; 10am-4pm; £45; 01691 657575; willowgalleryoswestry@gmail.com

28 March

OSWESTRY KNIT FOR LIFE GROUP Oswestry Library, Arthur St Knit for Life is a local knitting charity supporting direct aid distributions of knitting to many countries around the world. Making blanket squares, hats and toys and sewing together squares to make blankets.

Meeting on the last Thursday of the month at Oswestry library. 01691 677388

30 March

GOOD FRIDAY FAMILY DAY & ARTISAN MARKET Lots of family activities on the Bailey Head with games, rides, entertainment, face painting and Easter Hunt etc. Free prizes.

Telephone: 01691 680222

30 March

PLANT HUNTERS’ FAIR Whittington Castle, Castle Street, Whittington Spring plant fair offering the opportunity to pop along and visit many specialist nurseries to get your gardening season off to a great start.

Free entry to the plant fair (£1 to park). Access to the grounds of Whittington Castle and Castle Gatehouse is free. 10am-4pm 01691 662500 www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk

31 March

WORKSHOP: BATIK FOR COLLAGE WITH JENNY O’LEARY Dunbabin Room, Willow Gallery, Oswestry Learn the art of batik on paper and tissue paper, then cut and tear to create collages; 10am-4pm; £40; 01691 657575; willowgalleryoswestry@ gmail.com

23 March

Lily Neill St Silin’s Parish Church, Llansilin The American harpist Lily Neill will be returning to the area on Friday 23 March.

Fantastic virtuoso playing, in various styles.

Always well attended, so get your tickets early. £10 from Llansilin Community shop or Rowanthorn at Old Chapel Shop, Oswestry 01691 238227

THE MIDLANDS BREAKFAST CLUB The British Ironwork Centre, Aston, Near Oswestry The Midland’s breakfast club is a wonderful event starting at 9.00am, drivers from all over the Midlands will arrive in dramatic style at the British Ironwork centre. This is a free entry event, and everyone is welcome to join, don’t forget your camera!

Follow them on facebook at @ 24 March MidlandsBreakfastClub CLAUDE BOURBON 0800 6888 386 Willow Gallery, Oswestry www.britishironworkcentre.co.uk World-renowned French-Swiss singer/ 20 March songwriter and guitar virtuoso plays a wide range of musical traditions; 8pm (doors open ADULT LIFE SKILLS (15) 7pm); licensed bar.

New Dr Who Jodie Whittaker stars in this charming comedy drama. Whittaker plays Anna; Tickets £10 (children £5) 01691 657575 approaching 30 and living like a hermit in her mum’s garden shed where she spends her time willowgalleryoswestry@gmail.com 16 | Oswestry life

24 March

01691 238227

Oswestry ticket office at rowanthorn

Oswestry’s colourful ethnic gift shop We sell tickets for events in the Oswestry area as a free public service Concerts, bands, classical. folk, charity events, opera, festivals....

4 Old Chapel Court English Walls Oswestry SY11 2pd

01691 238227

Youth Music Festival

28th Feb to 4th March Over 300 talented young performers compete in this respected competition aimed at encouraging musical development. There is a huge number of classes using various instruments. The performances are free to watch and are held in local venues concluding with the Sunday ďŹ nal at Christchurch. For further details contact 01691 680222 www.oswestry-tc.gov.uk

Good Friday Family Day & Artisan Market

30th March – 9am until 3pm Lots of family activities on the Bailey Head with games, rides, entertainment, face painting and Easter Hunt etc. Free prizes.

@OswestryTC

Tel: 01691 680222 Oswestry life

|

17

Genuine commercial expertise now on your doorstep

Genuine commercial expertise now on your do Genuine commercial expertise now on your doorstep Genuine commercial expertise now on your doorstep Genuine commercial expertise now on your doors Corporate Commercial Property Agricultural Commercial Property Agricultural Genuine commercial expertise nowCorporate on your doorstep Corporate

Commercial Property Agricultural Call Eliot on: 01691 655060 | www.nexa.law

Call Eliot on: 01691 | www.nexa.l Property 655060 Agricultural Commercial Property Agricultural Call Eliot on: 01691 655060 | www.nexa.law Corporate Commercial Property Agricultural Call Eliot on: 01691 655060 | www.nexa.law Call Eliot on: 01691 655060 | www.nexa.law Call Eliot on: 01691 655060 | www.nexa.law Corporate

Commercial Corporate

sweeney hall

wedding fayre 15 april 2018 from 11am

18

| Oswestry life

Advertisement feature

Could you be sitting on a fortune?

A special antiques and collectables valuation event will be taking place this month in Oswestry. The experts of Lockdales Auctioneers will be providing free valuations to the public on Wednesday 14 March, 11am to 3pm at Oswestry Cricket Club, Morda Road, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 2AY (free car parking on-site subject to availability).

There will be experts providing valuations on the following types of collectables: Coins (including British and world, sovereigns, Krugerrands, Royal Mint commemoratives and proof sets), stamps, banknotes, medals and militaria, antiques, clocks, watches, jewellery, gold, silver, pre-1900 documents/books and maps, cigarette-cards, postcards, pre-1960 sporting programmes and tickets, pens, vintage toys, vintage comics, scientific instruments, swords, bayonets, de-activated and antique firearms. No appointment is necessary

at this event, simply turn up with your items and the valuers will be happy to see you.

Members of the public will have the option, if they wish, to consign their goods to auction (subject to terms and conditions). Cash purchase offers are also available. Valuations will be provided free of charge, with no obligation. High quality illustrated catalogues from previous auctions will be given away on a complimentary basis in order for the public to get a better idea of the services available.

Lockdales recently broke the British record for a Rolex Submariner watch sold at auction. On 11 October 2017 they sold an example made c.1964 with orange numerals for nearly £280,000 including premium. This achievement was reported in the national media. The owner consigned the watch to auction at one of the valuation events in the east of

England. Many other star items have turned up at previous events.

If you have any questions, contact Lockdales’ Martlesham offices: 01473 627110, sales@lockdales.com.

For further information visit: www.lockdales.com

Oswestry life | 19

Property

Village location Enjoying a delightful situation in the highly soughtafter village of Ryton, between Shrewsbury and Church Stretton, The Square is a spacious sixbedroom family residence on the market with Oswestry agent Richmond Harvey.

Downstairs the property features: living room, family room, dining room, luxury Kenton Jones kitchen, shower/ sauna, study and bedroom. Upstairs is a spacious master bedroom ensuite with dressing room, four further bedrooms and family bathroom. Outside the property boasts automatic gated driveway, double garage and car port alongside extensive mature gardens.

To book a viewing at The Square, call the agent on 01691 654222.

Valley views An individual detached house with valley views is on the market with estate agent Morris Marshall & Poole.

The property features first floor open plan living accommodation, three bedrooms, bathroom and shower room, oil fired central heating and double glazing. Outside is a large decked area and summer house, landscaped terraced gardens and woodland.

Tyn-Y-Pistyll in Garth, Glyn Ceiriog is on the market for £374,940. Call the agent on 01691 679595 to book a viewing.

Independent Mortgage Advice

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Let us search hundreds of lenders all in one place and find you the best deal.

Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Call now for Independent mortgage advice on:

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www.prudentltd.co.uk 20

| Oswestry life

10%

Property

pictured L-R: Craig Marston and Ian Kilby

Second award for architect

something more than your volume house builders generic house type.

Bosses at Oswestry’s architectural design studio Ke-design are celebrating after scooping yet another award for a new build house designed and built in the town.

Leafy Nook in Cherry Tree Drive was first commended by Oswestry Civic Society and has now received a special mention at Shropshire Council planning department’s Design & Conservation Awards 2017.

Along with the council awards, the three-bedroomed detached house has also been featured in Homebuilding & Renovating Magazine.

Craig Marston, director of Kedesign said: “This was the first

design awards hosted by Shropshire Council so it was a real honour to receive the recognition.”

Ian Kilby, head of Shropshire Council’s planning department, praised the Ke-design team for giving careful consideration to the context and the environment of the site.

Mr Marston added: “It was built speculatively which allowed us to then host our first open day which saw more than 100 people view the property.

“Much of the feedback from viewers included the question as to why builders and developers do not embark on projects like Leafy Nook more often.

“With all of the TV shows like Grand Designs and Building the Dream Home, people are wanting

ke -design

architectural ser vices ke-design.co.uk

info@ke-design.co.uk

“Leafy Nook meets the criteria for an affordable dwelling so therefore proves it doesn’t have to be on the scale and cost of the projects on Grand Designs,” he said.

Ke-design has enjoyed a record breaking year with an increase in the number of clients searching for high quality design which also offers a different solution or idea which they may not have previously considered.

Ke-design is exhibiting at the national Homebuilding & Renovating Show being held in Birmingham from March 22nd to 25th.

Mr Marston is offering free tickets to the show. To request a free ticket please email info@ke-design.co.uk.

For more information about Kedesign visit www.ke-design.co.uk and to find out more about the show visit www.homebuildingshow.co.uk

01691 656964

Oswestry life | 21

Find out what your HOME is WORTH in 60 seconds FREE to use 3 quick and easy steps Supported by Land Registry data Visit our website to value your home now. www.woodheadsalesandlettings.com

Roger Parry & Partners

Est. 1981

Incorporating Parry Lowarch

www.rogerparry.net

| ESTATE AGENTS | VALUERS | BUILDING SURVEYORS | PLANNERS | LETTINGS |

EW NEW

23 CAE DAFYDD, MEIFOD, POWYS

BARN AT PEN Y FRON FARM, GYFELIA, WREXHAM

N

N

EW

A spacious 3 / 4-bedroom detached village bungalow which enjoys a pleasant end cul-de-sac location through a gated driveway with ampleparking provision, garage and generous rear garden with delightful countryside aspect.7/8 Having BEDROOMS the benefit of : Oil fired underfloor SWIMMING heating, POOL Nobold, Double Glazing, EPC rating C. Early viewing fullyShrewsbury A substantial detached, period former farmhouse set in the recommended. highly desirable hamlet of Nobold, located only minutes drive Great Ryton, Condover

An opportunity to acquire a brand new luxury detached family house built to an extremely high standard with quality contemporary fittings throughout, briefly consisting: reception hall, sitting room, dining room, study, open plan kitchen/breakfast room with adjoining sun room, utility/boot room, downstairs WC and double garage. Upstairs there is a master bedroom with large full en-suite, 2 further bedrooms both with en-suite shower rooms, 2 double bedrooms and family bathroom. At this early stage of construction, the prospective buyers can have significant input into the finishes of the property. EPC: TBC

OIRO £235,000

PONT Y MEIBION, GLYN CEIRIOG, LLANGOLLEN

Guide Price: £750,000

4025

from Shrewsbury town centre. The original part of the building is thought to date from the 1750’s, with later extension circa 1800’s. Extensive accommodation; reception hall, sitting room, dining room, snug/office, family/music room, kitchen/breakfast room, downstairs cloakroom, cellarage, 7/8 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 en-suites. Propane gas and oil CH systems, DG, all set in manageable gardens with a range of brick built outbuildings together with outdoor swimming pool. EPC: F

A superb opportunity to purchase a barn with full planning consent (P/2016/0692) for conversion into a detached five-bedroom dwelling. The barn is situated in a delightful rural setting approached by a shared private driveway conveniently located off the B5426. The property benefits from views over INSPECTION HIGHLY WITH SELF-CONTAINED RECOMMENDED ANNEX open countryside.SINGLE ViewingSTOREY fully recommended.

Charlton, Nr Telford A 3/4 bedroom detached barn conversion with adjoining self-contained single storey annex. Indoor swimming pool, four car garage, large detached workshop, detached office block which could easily be converted to further independent accommodation subject to PP. The house and buildings are set round a central courtyard, extremely conveniently situated giving easy access to Telford, Shrewsbury and the M54 link. The property provides extensive potential to run a business from the premises subject to the necessary PP and would also suit family groups looking to reside together. EPC: D

GUIDE PRICE £200,000

Guide Price: £625,000

3098 Guide Price: £475,000 PENLLWYN BARN, CASTLE CAEREINION

An extremely spacious and superbly appointed, four bedroom, detached character barn conversion, believed to date back approximately 200 years, having been beautifully restored and improved. With the benefits of oil fired central heating, sealed unit PART doubleEXCHANGE glazing, 4 kW solar CONSIDERED panels providing the earliest and most lucrative Sheinton Road, Much Wenlock feed-in-tariff. EPC rating E. A charming and unusual detached stone built cottage,

Pont y Meibion’ is situated within the picturesque Ceiriog Valley with delightful countryside views.

The sale offers the opportunity to purchase a character grade II listed 4-bedroom detached farmhouse with 2.9 acres approx. (further land of up to 40 acres and buildings may be available by separate negotiation). Oil Fired Central Heating, Double Glazing, EPC rating F. Sychtyn, Llansilin

Belle Vue, Shrewsbury

An individual and substantial detached property built in the late 1920’s, occupying an outstanding elevated position in the hamlet of Sychtyn situated approximately six miles west of Oswestry. Oil CH, ample parking. Porch, hall, large inner hallway, drawing room, sitting room, dining room, study/bedroom 6, large kitchen breakfast room, three ground floor bedrooms, bathroom, upstairs there are master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and walk-in wardrobes, two further bedrooms. Set in lovely gardens enjoying elevated views over surrounding countryside. EPC: E

This highly desirable ground floor garden apartment situated in a period Grade II listed building offering spacious character accommodation briefly comprising: oak panelled entrance hall, large open plan living room incorporating luxury kitchen, contemporary fire with original surround, french doors leading out to enclosed gardens. There are 2 double bedrooms 1 with en-suite cloakroom and luxury large family bathroom. With gas fired CH, many period features and 2 allocated private parking spaces. The property also comes with a large brick built store room originally part of a former coach house. EPC Rating: C

OFFERS OVER £350,000

22

GUIDE PRICE £395,000

01691 655334

Guide Price: £395,000

3882

3956 Guide Price: £365,000

offering a rare combination of a period property with parking and garden, within walking distance of the town centre. Porch, dining room, cloakroom, utility room, landing area leading to sitting room with stone fireplace and access to gardens, three good size bedrooms, family bathroom.

Wood framed DG, gas CH, off-street parking with small stone outbuilding/carport. Gardens run to a good size with open fields to the rear, with large summer house, garden stores, greenhouse and water feature. EPC Rating: E

20 Salop 4024 Rd, Guide Oswestry SY11 2NU Price: £365,000 Website: www.rogerparry.net

| Oswestry life WITH 4 ACRES & OUTBUILDINGS

3602

BRAND NEW LUXURY HOUSE Sarnau, Llanymynech

Llanwyddyn, Oswestry

Pontesbury, Shrewsbury

A charming detached stone cottage set in gardens and grounds extending to four acres or thereabouts,

An extremely spacious recently constructed 3 double bedroom detached family house with underfloor gas fired central

Construction is shortly to begin on this brand new, highly individually designed, spacious detached house, situated on a small development of just four

WOODHEAD sales&lettings Telephone: 01691 680044

www.woodheadsalesandlettings.

12 Leg Street, Oswestry, SY11 2NL e: sales@woodheadsalesandlettings.com Sycharth Smithy, Llansilin

Four bedroom detached family home with a separate one bedroom detached bungalow within its grounds.

Enjoying a picturesque and tranquil setting in the Tanat valley, this charming property was formerly a blacksmith’s and retains many of its original features including exposed beams. Set in approximately one acre Sycharth Smithy offers well maintained gardens with ample parking and a generously sized outbuilding/garage/workshop​. EPC RATING E

OIRO £499,950

Parc Llwyfen, Llanymynech

Well presented four bedroom detached house with garage & conservatory; this property benefits from a sought after village location with easy commuting to Welshpool, Shrewsbury, Wrexham and Chester. Boasting two reception rooms, conservatory, utility room, downstairs WC, master bedroom with en suite, three further bedrooms, bathroom, LPG gas central heating, double glazing, off road parking, garage and an enclosed rear garden. EPC RATING C

OIRO £265,000

Trefonen Road, Morda

• • • •

2 BED END TERRACE HOUSE OFF ROAD PARKING​ EPC RATING TBC DOUBLE GARAGE

OIRO £144,000

Bentley Drive, Oswestry

Broomhall Close, Oswestry

Split level, three storey, five bedroom deceptively spacious freehold family home. Located behind Oswestry School in a sought after area. Comprising: five bedrooms, four of which are en-suite, a re-fitted kitchen, living room, cloakroom, three reception rooms, two utility rooms, gas central heating and double glazing. Externally the property enjoys a large private landscaped garden to the rear with a patio entertainment area and a double garage and driveway to the front. EPC RATING C

OIRO £415,000

OIRO £360,000

Plas Cerrig Close, Whittington

Park Meadows, Park Hall

Three bedroom detached family home located within the hamlet of Park Hall, which is just outside the sought after village of Whittington and offers great road links to the North and South. Benefiting from two reception rooms, kitchen, utility room, downstairs WC, master bedroom with en suite, two further bedrooms, family bathroom, gas central heating, double glazing, off road parking, garage and enclosed gardens. EPC RATING C NO ONWARD CHAIN

OIRO £235,000

Summerfield Close, Oswestry

• • • •

This four bedroom property is set within a particularly sought after location in Oswestry. Kitchen, four reception rooms, sun room, conservatory, utility room, downstairs WC, gas central heating, double glazing, galleried first floor landing, master bedroom with en suite, three further bedrooms and bathroom. Off road parking, double garage and beautiful gardens. Solar panels provide some of its electricity supply and hot water. EPC RATING C NO ONWARD CHAIN

Woodheads are delighted to present this three bedroom detached family home to the sales market. This property benefits from a particular sought after location within the village of Whittington and offers great road links to the North and South. Internally the property benefits from two reception rooms, downstairs WC, double glazing and gas central heating. Externally, the property enjoys a single garage, off road parking and an enclosed rear garden.​EPC RATING D

OIRO £199,000

Albert Road, Oswestry

4 BED SEMI DET HOUSE GARAGE + OFF ROAD PARKING CONSERVATORY EPC RATING C

OIRO £179,950

• • • •

2 BED TERRACE HOUSE KITCHEN/DINER OFF ROAD PARKING EPC RATING C

OIRO £112,995

The independent agent with national coverage oswestry’s recommended agent for the guild of professional estate agents

associated london office

Oswestry life | 23

Interiors

Life is serene with

MARRS GREEN

Marrs Green has been voted the World’s Favourite Colour after a survey by Hull - UK City of Culture 2017 - and paper merchant GF Smith. 30,000 people around the world voted and the most popular shade was closest to the one chosen by student Annie Marrs and so it was named after her!

Annie said the colour was inspired by the blue, green and greys from the River Tay in Scotland.

Annie said: “I had heard about G. F Smith’s ‘World’s Favourite Colour’ competition earlier in the year but just hadn’t got around to submitting my colour. It wasn’t until the end of April when I went out on the Pirate Boat trip on the River Tay in Dundee that I was inspired to pick my colour.

Aqua Eames style dining chair, £49 from Danetti www.danetti.com

Black Edition Maroque cushion – Lazurite, £135 from Sweepea & Willow www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

so many different and beautiful deep hues of green, blue and grey from the water and the sky. As soon as I got home I made a cup of tea and settled down to pick the colour. Turns out that the World’s Favourite Colour is a reflection of the landscape that surrounds us. It’s a colour that I’ve always loved and so, to me its no surprise that it’s was the favourite – turns out it’s everyone’s favourite!

It’s an absolute privilege to have a colour named after me – time to redecorate!”

This vibrant shade of teal is a continuation of the jungle trend which was big in 2017. The colour can be seen in everything from kitchens to cushions and matches nicely with metallics, especially coppers, golds, and leafy prints which remain popular. In these uncertain political times, it seems we all crave this tranquil colour and its reflection of nature’s serenity and beauty.

I became really aware of being surrounded by

▲ Moroccan style tribal wool rug, from £399.50 from Frith Rugs, Shrewsbury www.frithrugs.co.uk

24

| Oswestry life

▼ Quirky dotty carpet from J&I carpets, Oswestry www.jandicarpets.co.uk

Alessi Dotty wall clock, £70 from Black

by Design www.black-by-design.co.uk

Danish drip free candles, £1 each from Upstairs Downstairs, Oswestry www. globalcookshop.co.uk ▼ Antique gold cactus table lamp, £120 from Alexander & Pearl www. alexanderandpearl.co.uk

▲ Judge Cool casserole dish, £24.99 from Upstairs Downstairs, Oswestry www.globalcookshop.co.uk ▼ Amande book case, price on requet from Oficina Inglesa www.oficinainglesa.com

Le Creuset salt & pepper mills, £40 a pair from Upstairs Downstairs, Oswestry

Oswestry life

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25

26 | Oswestry life

Residential Sales and Lettings Commercial Sales and Lettings RICS Surveys and Valuations Mortgages

Garth, Glyn Ceiriog 3 bed, fine views, gardens

£374,950 EPC = F

Queens Road, Oswestry £220,000 5 bedrooms, lounge & dining room garden, cellar.

EPC = D

Barley Meadows, Llanymynech £249,950 BRAND NEW 4 bedrooms, single garage Backing onto canal and heritage area.

1st

AWARD WINNING SERVICE AWARD WINNING RESULTS

High Lea House, Oswestry £110,000 1 bedroom first floor apartment, safe and quiet location, parking.

EPC = E

16 Leg Street, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 2NN 01691 679595 oswestry@morrismarshall.co.uk www.morrismarshall.co.uk Oswestry life

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27

Park homes for the over 50s retired and semi retired

PRICES

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| Oswestry life

Property

Character cottage with views A well-proportioned three-bedroom house with double garage, outbuildings and great views has come on the market in an enviable village location just across the border.

Ty Uchaf in Bwilch-y-cibau, Llanfyllin is a detached character cottage with parts dating back to the 16th century. The well-presented property benefits from period features

throughout, modern kitchen/dining room, living room with inglenook fireplace and log burner, sitting room and three bedrooms with two en suites. Outside is a detached double garage, further double garage with inspection pit and workshop, gardens and surrounding rural view.

Ty Uchaf is on the market for £330,000 with Woodhead Oswestry Sales and Lettings. To book a viewing call 01691 680044.

J&I Carpets

35

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OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! Over 30 rolls of carpet in stock MANY ROLL ENDS HALF PRICE! • Vinyls • LVT • Blinds & Curtains

19

82-2017

Victoria Road, Oswestry (behind the Co-Op) e: jandicarpets@hotmail.co.uk w: www.jandicarpets.co.uk Tel: 01691 656843

PERSONAL AND FRIENDLY SERVICE Oswestry life |

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Find our brand new showroom at: Unit GM1, Glovers Meadow , Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 8NH 30

| Oswestry life

DOORS WINDOWS CONSERVATORIES car ports verandahs WARM ROOFS FASCIAS & GUTTERING

Unit GM1, Glovers Meadow Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 8NH Telephone: 01691 650567 www.malcolm-lewis.co.uk Oswestry life | 31

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Property

SHINING SUCCESS FOR CONCRETE EXPERTS Concrete experts at a Shropshire firm have taken a real shine to their latest project as they continue to push the boundaries when it comes to exploring new processes.

The team at TG Concrete – which is part of the Tudor Griffiths Group – have joined forces with Concrete Polishing, from Oswestry, to deliver a new service and their partnership approach is proving extremely popular.

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| Oswestry life

TO FF

32

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Banbury have been

TG Concrete General Manager, Dave Morris, said: “We’re always looking for innovative and creative ways to use our products, and we’re delighted to be working with Martin Clark and his team to offer something very special to our customers.

SAVE UP “The new joint working arrangement means we can offer clients a range of TO 45% ” concrete floors that have a “A ON polished real wow factor about them thanks to RATED their mirrored finish, and they are also WS practical and easy to WINDOcompletely maintain.

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Cambrian Works, Gobowen Road, Oswestry Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sunday 10am-4pm Free parking

ANTIQUES FAIR POLISHED COLOURED CONCRETE

settings, and there’s a great deal of interest already from customers in the local area.”

Martin said: “The process can transform a new floor as we mechanically refine the set concrete surface through grinding, polishing and chemical treatments.

“It’s a smart solution that helps reduce the environmental impact of laying a floor, as it reduces the amount of added material needed, as well as reducing the likelihood of any future replacements or refurbishments being required.

Come and meet the dealer!

“Working with the team at TG Concrete is a great arrangement for both companies, and we’re sure our customers will find such a close working relationship will bring dividends when it comes to ensuring a smooth and effortless installation.”

TG Concrete is renowned for its innovative approach, and the polished concrete initiative is the latest in a wide and varied catalogue of products and processes the team has developed including coloured concrete, AgriCrete specifically for agricultural clients, and TG Cemfloor – a quick-dry liquid self-levelling screed for floors.

TEL: 01691 652257 MOBILE: 07837 245769 EVE: 01691 778607

Email chemporium@hotmail.com

Tudor Griffiths Group has 12 concrete plants covering the whole of Shropshire, Cheshire, and North and Mid Wales, specialising in high-quality concrete products for a wide range of purposes.

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45% 344858 BANBURY Tel:TO 01743 ON “A” RATED10% BUY DIRECT FROM WINDOWS Alton Works,Shrewsbury Long Bank, Bewdley, Heathgates, SY1 4BBWorcestershire DY12 2UL Alton Works, Long Bank, Bewdley, Worcestershire DY12 2UL Openinghours: hours:MonMon-Fri 9am-5pm 10am-4pm Opening Sat 9am - 5pm • • Sat-Sun Sun 10am - 4pm Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm • Sat-Sun 10am-4pm

our head office branch during December 2013.

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Opening hours: Mon- Sat 9am - 5pm • Sun 10am - 4pm

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All savings are based on previous prices at our head office branch during December 2016. Photographs are for illustration purposes only

T OF O F

UP

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| Oswestry life

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34

Gardening

Spring has sprung with perfect primulas Plant a rainbow of colour to welcome in spring by packing patio pots and filling flower beds with primulas and polyanthus. These cheerful bedding plants offer great value, flowering their hearts out for weeks on end to brighten your outlook on even the dullest of days.

New varieties are continually being bred offering outstanding garden performance, larger flowers and better resistance to the vagaries of our weather.

Although single-coloured flowers are always popular also look out for bicolours, double and rosebud types, plus wonderfully scented new varieties too.

©Adam Pasco Media: Primula in bloom

Make your own grassy meadow or plant banks, verges and other natural areas with dainty Primroses (Primula vulgaris) and Cowslips (Primula veris). Keep watered if conditions are dry and these hardy perennials will quickly establish, flowering and setting seed to slowly spread and cover the area with their progeny.

Primula enthusiasts often move on from growing bedding varieties to picking choice varieties of Auricula Bold blocks of primulas always look striking, but to grow and display in small terracotta pots on patios impressive displays can also be created by combining or shelved Auricula Theatres. A Victorian favourite, them with other spring bedding, flowering bulbs and hundreds of exquisite varieties of these evergreen foliage plants too. Small pot grown plants are available perennials have been bred over the years. Many have now in full flower, making them perfect for creating deeply coloured and patterned petals surrounding a instant displays in any garden, patio or courtyard. white or golden #11490-Oswestry-148x107-S1-V2-PRINT.pdf 1 13/02/2018 16:12 eye, with rosettes of leathery leaves often intriguingly coated with a powdery bloom.

Primulas are one of the most popular wildflowers too.

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Right: The quarry Top to bottom: Buzzard in flight; Kynnaston’s Cave; old graffiti; Oliver’s Point; View to the north-west

Rambles with a camera Walker, photographer and artist Graham ‘Grum’ Mitchell focuses on some of the region’s best places to walk

Facts & Folklore

Nesscliffe Hill is a place of legends. Some of these may be slightly questionable but there is real history to be found here.

Just off the old A5 at Nesscliffe. Take the turning opposite the Three Pigeons and the ‘Oaks Car Park’ is about 1/2 mile further on the right. There are some good maps available online and it would be worth looking first. It is a great area for children with lots of interest BUT there are some sheer drops, so they must be well supervised. With the trees not in leaf yet, it is a good time to visit.

From the car park go through the gate and turn left. The bridleway is well used by horse riders so prepare for it to be muddy.

At the end turn right, up the hill and bear right. You’ll be pleased that is the end of the climbing. To your right is a drop, and to the left is the ancient hillfort. It dates back over 2000 years and was refortified in the Iron Age. Recent clearing has made this much more visible. We are heading for ‘Oliver’s Point’ and the iconic Nesscliffe view. Supposedly Oliver Cromwell used this as a lookout, and some strange round holes in the rock are where his cannons were mounted. But there is not much historical evidence for that. Turn away from the cliff 36 | Oswestry life

and take the path to the right. Continue along this track. A little later in the year you would be surrounded by rhododendrons.

It’s worth coming back at that time.

To your right you’ll get some wonderful views across to Criggion and Rodney’s Pillar.

You’ll come to a signpost for ‘Kynaston’s Cave’ to the right. This leads down some very steep and slippery steps. Exciting, but I take the easy route! So, keep going until you reach a T junction with a path in a cutting. Turn right down the hill, and then right at the bottom. This bridleway takes you back to the car park. Just make sure you don’t take the left-hand paths which take you down to the road.

There are a couple of diversions on the way.

First is a gate on the right that takes you into an old sandstone quarry. The rocks are amazing colours, especially after rain, and you can see old inscriptions high up in the cliff. Secondly follow the sign post up to the right to Kynaston’s Cave. The supposed lair of the local highwayman Sir Humphrey Kynaston, it’s a wonderful cave-dwelling but maybe not such a good hideout from the law.

Retrace your steps back to the bridleway. You will need to come again and again, to explore the area. There is so much to see.

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oswestryschool.org.uk T: 01691 655711

“The contribution of curricular and co-curricular provision is excellent” ISI Inspection 2016

For boys and girls aged 4 – 18 600 years of academic excellence Outstanding ISI report Set in 50 outstanding Shropshire acres Day, full and weekly boarding 38 | Oswestry life

Education

Pupil raises over ÂŁ20K for charity A pupil from Oswestry School has smashed his fundraising target by raising ÂŁ20,473 for Cancer Research.

Tom started raising money in April 2016 after his grandmother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

The experience spurred Tom to do something special as a thank you

to the medical profession for providing so much care.

Louise Aubrey, a representative from Cancer Research, visited Oswestry School to accept the cheque and to talk to the pupils about how vital the money is and how it will be spent.

From left, Tom Evans, India Whalley, Louise Aubrey, Poppy Polden, India Whalley and Alice Williams presenting the cheque for Cancer Research

Careers week success A careers week held at North Shropshire College has been hailed a success after pupils were treated to an exciting set of interactive activities with a focus on employment.

On offer was psychometric testing from the Navy, a careers fair and the highlight; Operating Theatre Live which enabled gifted and talented pupils from local schools with an interest in medicine to get hands on in a portable operating theatre.

TOP: Josh Jones and Sam Piri from Operating Theatre live with Allen Edwards training adviser from RJAH Orthopaedic Hospital, Jo White, business development manager at NSC and Karen Roberts assistant principal for curriculum at NSC.

Achievement through caring We believe: Successful, creative, lifelong learners participate in a journey of self-discovery. They know how to learn, acquire skills and feel safe to take risks with confidence and courage.

Transport We now operate buses from surrounding areas; St Martins, Ellesmere, Baschurch and Wrexham.

and Sixth Form 11 - 18 years

The Marches School, Morda Road, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 2AR T: 01691 664400 W: www.marchesschool.co.uk E: admin@marchesschool.net

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Education Parents are being invited to find out for themselves what makes Packwood so popular with an open day on 17 March.

Parents of pupils at independent prep school Packwood Haugh in Ruyton XI Towns cite many reasons for choosing the school for their sons and daughters and top of the list is often the sheer breadth of education and experience on offer.

discover and develop new skills and interests. Of course, not all will excel in all areas but the very process of striving for success engenders in the children those crucial character traits of grit and determination that will be invaluable to them in the future.

Above: Under 12 fencing team (L to R) Casper Buckley, Hal Cowan, Finn Bowdler, Charlie Weston; Year 8 Packwood music scholar Eve Leslie

The ethos at Packwood is to educate the whole child through a rigorous and stimulating curriculum as well as a far-reaching range of extra-curricular options - the school develops pupils’ talents wherever they may lie.

“The current academic year is a special one in Packwood’s history marking the school’s 125th anniversary and the children’s achievements so far give us all the more reason to celebrate. I am enormously proud of their efforts in all areas of school life and am confident that more success will follow.

Packwood Headmaster, Clive SmithLangridge, elaborates: “Packwood is a preparatory school and ultimately, that means our raison d’être is to prepare our pupils for life at senior school and beyond. A Packwood education provides a myriad of opportunities to

“Packwood’s top year pupils who will move on to senior school at the end of this year have already amassed a range of scholarship awards in music, sports, art and drama. The Under 13 girls’ cricket team is enjoying success in the Lady Taverners Indoor Cricket

Tournament for the fifth consecutive year. Five members of Packwood’s fencing club have qualified for the GB individual national championships, and the swimming team came away from a recent IAPS (Independent Association of Prep Schools) meet with no fewer than seven gold medals.

The Music Department is celebrating with the news that one of Packwood’s choristers has won a place in the National Youth Choir of Great Britain.

“We would be delighted to welcome parents to visit us on the 17th and see everything that Packwood has to offer.”

Visit www.packwood-haugh.co.uk to find out more.

Open Day

Saturday 17th March

“I am in awe over my daughter’s progression at your school”

A Packwood parent

Packwood Haugh School

Ruyton XI Towns, Shrewsbury SY4 1HX Telephone 01939 260217

www.packwood-haugh.co.uk

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| Oswestry life

Independent Day School for Boys and Girls Junior School ages 7-11 Senior School ages 11-16 Sixth Form ages 16-18

Education as individual as your child Wolverhampton Grammar School is one of the oldest schools in the country, founded in 1512. As a selective and co-educational independent school, it enjoys an outstanding reputation.

WOLVERHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL JUDGED “EXCELLENT” IN ALL AREAS BY THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS INSPECTORATE

School Open Evening Thursday 21st June, 6pm - 8pm To arrange a guided tour or to learn about one of our open events please contact Mrs Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar tel 01902 422939 or email jam@wgs-sch.net “This is a remarkable school. The atmosphere we encountered as we walked round with a succession of delightful guides was smilingly friendly. There is a real feeling of happiness.” The Good Schools Guide

01902 421326 www.wgs.org.uk Wolverhampton Grammar School Compton Road Wolverhampton WV3 9RB

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Advertisement feature

CARL HAS GOT IT NAILED A fungal nail specialist with an innovative treatment for fungal nail infections has started a mobile laser therapy service.

Carl Mairs, a fully qualified practitioner and member of the Aesthetic Laser Technicians Association and the British Medical Laser Association, says two 20-minute, pain free treatments is all it takes to destroy nail fungus forever.

The treatment, says Carl, is clinically proven: “It’s the only fully safe and properly effective treatment and it’s cheaper and easier than getting treatment through the NHS. Current alternatives involve highly toxic antifungals and medicine to deal with the symptoms the antifungals cause.

“Figures show that the traditional method of treatment has a reinfection rate of over 22% after two years and higher after five years. The treatment I use is at least

95% effective and doesn’t affect the health or wellbeing of the client.”

The treatment was developed by dermatologists in six European countries after exhaustive studies showed that using short pulse Nd:YAG lasers targeted the pigment in the fungus to destroy the infection.

The treatment can be carried out in any home or workplace around Llangollen, Oswestry and Wrexham and requires only a private room and access to electric. Carl also offers a consulting room at his own home in Froncysyllte if preferred.

Carl has been a laser practitioner since 2010, when he set up a laser clinic in Chester, specialising in pigment removal. In 2016 he refreshed his skills and specialised in fungal nail treatments.

Treatments start at just £30 and Carl’s clients have already been impressed with the revolutionary treatment that promises no pain and no side effects.

To find out more visit www. lasernailtherapy. co.uk or call 07497 365667

! r e m m u s is h t t e e f h c a e b r u o y Release With treatments starting at just £30 what are you waiting for?

To find out more visit www.lasernailtherapy.co.uk or call 07497 365667

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| Oswestry life

Ladies - You are Invited!

Read on to find out more details of this exclusive invitation just for ladies...

You are invited to our bespoke Women’s Health Fayre at the Nuffield Health Shrewsbury Hospital on the 17th March 2018.

This event will include several workshops including a breast care seminar, talks on both bladder and bowel pelvic floor dysfunctions and other women’s health issues. Guests at the event will be able to attend several seminars during the morning as well as talking to our experts over refreshments.

The first set of workshops will start at 10.15am and the topics are as follows: • 10.15 Mr Andrew Tapp & Mrs Rachel Bromley Pelvic Floor (Bladder) Dysfunction • 10.15 Mr Adam Farquharson Pelvic Floor (Bowel) Dysfunction • 10.15 Mr Tamoor Usman Risk factors for breast cancer • 10.15 Dr Banchhita Sahu Irregular periods in late 40’s These workshops will then be repeated throughout the morning, we will also be joined by our breast care nurse Wendy Farlow, a team from the Nuffield Health Fitness & Wellbeing Centre as well as other experts in Women’s Health.

Places are limited so booking is essential.

All appointments must be pre-booked and can be booked online at nuffieldhealth.com/book Nuffield Health Shrewsbury Hospital Longden Road Shrewsbury SY3 9DP Call 01743 282628

NUF0118736890-4

Nuffield Health.

Specialists in you.

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Health and fitness

New pelvic floor class is a diamond!

Zest Ladies Health and Fitness gym which already runs a wide variety of successful fitness classes has introduced ‘Diamond Pilates’– a specialist Pilates-based exercise routine designed to improve and maintain pelvic floor health.

“Poor pelvic floor muscles are a bit of a taboo subject but we should be talking about it more,” says Pauline Lacey of Zest Ladies Health and Fitness, “childbirth can have a very adverse effect on the pelvic floor muscles and if they are to be restored, pelvic floor muscle therapy should begin as soon possible.”

The passage of time ditorial 24/04/2017 14:13 Page 1 also affects the pelvic floor and stress and urge Page 1 Page 1 incontinence is embarrassing and can drastically affect people’s lives.

Free weeks always available! able! able!

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Men are even worse at talking about these issues: Recently prostate cancer is said to be the biggest cancer risk amongst the population surpassing breast cancer. It is vital that men who are suffering from urinary problems are given guidance to help their pelvic floor muscles, as a preventative measure or pre/post treatment. Ladies need to get their men to act! Zest Ladies Health and Fitness is a ladies-only facility during normal operating hours, but men-only classes are being planned for off-peak times.

Each course lasts six weeks and is held on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the gym on Coney Green, so ladies can attend either

“Poor pelvic floor muscles are a bit of a taboo subject but we should be talking about it more” of those sessions each week. Ladies will be taught the basics of anatomy of their pelvic floor and how to strengthen the relevant muscles.

Zest is a friendly Fitness Club for ladies of all ages and abilities.

It provides safe effective fitness programmes, always with a qualified trainer.

All ages and abilities welcomed.

Zest is an Exercise on Referral gym –your doctor can refer you if you are not sure you are ready for exercise after an injury/ill health/operation.

Cambrian Buildings, Coney Green, Oswestry, Shropshire SY11 2LJ www.zestladieshealth.com

Personal training in

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All ages and abilities welcomed. Zest is an Exercise on Referral gym –your doctor can refer you if you are not sure you are ready for exercise after an injury/ill health/ operation.

ge Fundraising ising s with ages ranging from 21 to 58, undertake ising o raise funds for the Alzheimers’s Society. or 07855 367771 and speak to Pauline and the team Tel 01691 671471

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WHAT AREAS CAN BE IMPROVED WITH HIFU FACE? This treatment is fantastic for overall skin tightening and rejuvenation as well as brow lifting, jowl line lifting, nasolabial fold reduction, and periorbital wrinkle reduction.

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CAN I COMBINE HIFU FACE WITH OTHER TREATMENTS? HIFU Face is a standalone treatment.

WHAT WILL I EXPERIENCE DURING TREATMENT? During treatment, the HIFU face hand piece is placed on the skin and held in one area at a time. You will experience a slight vibration and warmth whilst the energy is being penetrated. The handpiece will then be placed on the next area of treatment. This treatment may feel slightly uncomfortable around the jaw line but generally this treatment is pain free.

All treatments are subject to an in depth medical consultation.

Contact the clinic on 01691 680070 for an appointment www.bodyandfaceoptions.co.uk Oswestry life |

45

Aloha basket bag £25.99, glitter heels (due SS18), New Look www.newlook.com

y l k r a p S pring S Glitzy parties may be a distant memory but sequins refuse to go quietly. Spring fashion promises an unlikely opulent feel with bold embellishments on sporty items and shiny daytime options. A mirror of casual garments alongside overthe-top pieces makes for an exciting and wearable mixture. This is a strong trend so wearing a plain sweatshirt with a fancy sequined skirt is no longer too much for a coffee with Mum. Colour isn’t a problem and the brighter the better.

Ciao T-shirt £12.99, New Look www.newlook.com

Shoes, £34.99, H&M www.hm.com

46 | Oswestry life

Striped suit jacket £69, Topshop www.topshop.com Sequin Jacket £35.00, Primark www.primark.com Sequined top BIBA, £90, House of Fraser www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Pink Tie Waist Crop Trousers £19.99, New Look www.newlook.com

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Embellished jeans £39.99, H&M www.hm.com

Earrings £9.99, H&M, www.hm.com

Trousers £28, t-shirt £16, Dorothy Perkins www.dorothyperkins.com

Bryleigh £150, Dune, www.dunelondon.com

Our Fashion and Beauty Editor Victoria Jane McKenna is a clothing designer, blogger and has her own fashion brand. www.victoriajanemckenna.com

Oswestry life | 47

St. David’s Day

Leek & cheddar tart

by Rosie Radford of Caws Cheese & Deli, Leg Street, Oswestry For maximum St David’s Day points, use Welsh cheddar in this recipe

Ingredients: (Serves 6-8) 250g (8oz) shortcrust pastry 400g (13oz) leeks 25g (1oz) butter Fresh thyme chopped up 125g (4oz) cheddar cheese (we recommend Snowdonia Green Thunder) 150ml (¼pint) whipping cream 3 medium eggs

Method:

Warm the oven up to 180°C.

Roll out the pastry and line a 23cm (9in) flan tin.

Line the pastry with foil and press the foil against the pastry.

Chill the pastry for 30 minutes.

Bake the pastry in the centre of the oven for 15 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes until the pastry is starting to go golden.

Take the pastry out of the oven while you make the filling.

Reduce the oven temperature to 160°C.

Trim the leeks and wash them. Shake them dry and slice.

Heat the butter in a large frying pan with 1 tbsp water.

Add the leeks, cover and cook for 5 minutes until softened.

Beat together the thyme, cheese (use all the cheese apart from 40g) , cream and eggs .

Add leeks and season.

Pour into the flan case.

Crumble the remaining cheese on top of the filling and return to the oven on gas 4, 180°C, fan 160°C. Bake for 30 minutes or until the filling is just set.

› Huge varieties of Cheeses › Fresh meat pies › Delicious cakes

48 | Oswestry life

Celebrate St David’s Day with Welsh beer and food We bought our pub on St David’s day 2016, and after two years of living on the Welsh borders we are still impressed by the amazing food and drink Wales has to offer.

MUM’S THE WORD Surprise your mum this Sunday 11 March by baking up a treat to show her how much you care. These lemon and plum minis are the perfect size for a gift of baking for mum. Cover the cases with pretty wrapping paper and simply add some ribbon and tags.

Zesty Lemon & Mirabelle Plum Minis Ingredients: (Makes 10) 225g unsalted butter, softened 225g golden caster sugar 275g self-raising flour 2 tsp baking powder 4 medium eggs 4 tbsp milk Finely grated zest and juice of 2 lemons Few sprigs fresh thyme, finely chopped 5 tbsp Bonne Maman Mirabelle Plum Conserve 150g granulated sugar 1 tbsp sugar nibs, optional

Method:

Heat the oven to 180C, fan oven 160C, gas mark 4. Put the first 6 ingredients into a large bowl and beat with an electric hand whisk for 3-4 minutes or until light and fluffy.

Beat in the lemon zest and fresh thyme.

Divide half the mixture between 10 individual loaf cases. Drizzle a generous tsp of conserve down the centre of each one then top with the remaining cake mixture.

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the centre, comes out clean.

Meanwhile, mix the granulated sugar with the lemon juice and stir together for 2-3 minutes.

Spoon the lemon glaze all over the top of the warm cakes, sprinkle with sugar nibs, if using, and leave to set.

Cooks tips

• Freeze the glazed cakes in their cases for up to 1 month.

• For an extra surprise, remove the cakes from the cases. Push an apple corer into each end of the cakes and remove a section of cake. Fill the hollows with more conserve. Return a ‘plug’ of the removed sponge to hold it in place and pop the cakes back in the cases.

Beer and cheese go extremely well together and there are some fabulous matches you can make using Welsh produce.

Mad Dog Brewery in Penperlleni take huge pride in their craft beers, a huge favourite of mine is their Wels red ale, ‘Now In A Minute’ – a full bodied malty beer with hints of citrusy hops. I think it goes incredibly well with the multi award winning Perl Las soft Blue cheese made

by Caws Cenarth from Cardigan.

Caws Cenarth are possibly best known locally for their incredible mature cheddar, Black Bomber. It’s a great, sharp yet creamy cheddar that goes perfectly with Surfin’ IPA from Conwy Brewery. Surfin’ is a golden, hoppy beer with lovely fruity hop notes made from water from Snowdonia and the finest imported hops.

Wales also is home to one of Britain’s Best Charcuterie makers, Trealy Farm.

They make magnificent salamis as well as air dried beef, smoked duck and venison carpaccios. The range of flavours and textures in charcuterie means lots of drink pairings are available – whether it’s the sharp acidity of a dry cider like Gwynt Y Ddraig Black Dragon or the malty chocolate notes of Big Hand’s amazing dry hopped Welsh Stout, Spectre.

This St David’s Day do more than have some daffodils in a vase, support Welsh producers by trying some of their amazing food and drink.

By Grace Goodlad

Grace is from the award winning Bailey Head public house.

Oswestry life

|

49

Mother’s Day

Boozy lemon drizzle cake with crystalised papaya

by Linda Clark of Fat Rabbit, Bailey Street, Oswestry

Ingredients: 275g Self-raising flour 200g Caster sugar 1 tsp Baking powder 170ml Cold water 100ml Sunflower oil Zest of a lemon 2 tbsp Cointreau or Limoncello 1 tbsp Poppy seeds Icing sugar 150gms juice of a lemon 2 tbsp Crystallised papaya roughly chopped

Method:

Heat oven to 180C Mix the first three dry ingredients. Mix next two wet ingredients. Mix wet into dry. Add

poppy seeds and lemon zest. Mix. Pour into a lined loaf tin.

Bake for 30 minutes. Cook until lightly brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Remove from the oven.

Allow to cool for ten minutes then remove from loaf tin. Poke holes all over the top of the loaf. Pour chosen booze over the top and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.

Icing: Mix icing sugar with lemon juice. Pour over cake and sprinkle with Papaya. An easy vegan cake which we serve regularly in Fat Rabbit.

If you’re not the baking type, why not cheat and pop into Fat Rabbit on Bailey Street and buy some ready-made cake?

She’ll never know.

Vegan cake making rules: Mix quickly and let the ingredients do their thing in the oven. Have a hot oven at the right temperature.

The Black Gate Salop Road, Oswestry 01691 657484 Follow us on facebook

@TheBlackGate

MOTHER’S DAY MENU SUNDAY, 11 MARCH

STARTERS

DESSERTS

Homemade scotch egg served with Homemade sticky toffee pudding our tomato chutney served with toffee sauce & Halloumi served with charred vanilla ice cream asparagus, salsa verde & lemon Homemade chocolate brownie served Moules mariniere – mussels in a creamy with chocolate sauce, vanilla ice garlic and white wine sauce, cream & honeycomb served with crusty bread Lemon & Raspberry posset served with (Enjoy as starter or main) homemade shortbread

MAINS

Roast Beef served with a Yorkshire pudding Roast pork loin with apple sauce Roast lamb with mint gravy Homemade nut roast All served with green beans, savoy cabbage, carrots, mash potato, garden peas, roasted potatoes & gravy

JUST A MAIN COURSE - £9.95 2 COURSES - £12.95 3 COURSES - £15.95

Children’s menu available including a children’s Sunday roast.

To avoid disappointment please book a table in advance by calling 01691657484 or emailing us at theblackgateoswestry@outlook.com This menu is running alongside our main menu, to request a copy of this menu please email us.

Any dietary requirements can be catered for in advance.

50

| Oswestry life

42

nd

anniversary celebration Thursday 24 May 4 course meal Live entertainment Raffle £30 per person

Join us to celebrate with proceeds donated to local charities Proud to have served all our patrons Thank you for your support over the years

Simla Tandoori Restaurant 44 Beatrice Street,Oswestry 01691 659880/653818

photography: tim mitchell

A culinary collaboration A popular coffee shop in Oswestry has joined forces with local restaurant and venue, Hayes Barn to create a new food offering called Hayes Kitchen.

Liar Liar on Bailey Street is now serving a contemporary street food menu to its diners thanks to the partnership which has seen Sophie Dillon and chef Simon Newbery take on the kitchen space above the coffee shop.

From breakfast bowls with quirky names like ‘The Hipster’ to hearty soup and sandwich combinations and exotic burgers, Hayes Kitchen has already captivated the town’s foodies with its ever-changing menu of authentic world dishes.

Tom Jones, founder of Liar Liar says: “I’m delighted to welcome the Hayes Barn team here. Their amazing, creative menus are a real asset to the coffee shop.”

“Our street food has been really well received,” says Sophie, “it’s something very different. Our

Hayes Barn crew have supported the new venture (as always, they are fantastic!) Plus, we are seeing lots of new faces every day. We offer a takeaway menu and we have also been approached to do some external catering, which is something we are looking to expand this year.”

“It was always mine and Simon’s plan to look for other opportunities within Oswestry to contribute to and expand the existing tapestry of hospitality outlets, create employment and draw people to our lovely town. So, when Tom approached us about Liar Liar we were delighted to come on board.

Following the closure of Hayes Barn restaurant last year due to planning problems, Sophie continues to work with Shropshire Council to resolve the issues.

Sophie adds: “Despite January and February being notoriously quiet in business, we have been surprisingly busy. We are really looking forward to spring and summer.”

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Oswestry life | 51

Q&A

with Carrie Morris of Prudent Financial Planning

Q: My old fixed-rate mortgage came to an end two years ago and I have been waiting for the right time to set up another fixed rate.

My current deal seems very competitive.

When do you recommend looking into this?

A: You may be already on such a fantastic deal that you’d be mad to move. But don’t get too comfortable – chances are it won’t always be top of the tree so eventually you’ll need to consider hopping onboard the remortgaging merry-go-round.

HSBC estimates that one in three homeowners could save up to £4,000 every year by remortgaging from a standard variable rate mortgage (SVR) to a fixed product. Yet astonishingly, one in four homeowners remain in the dark about the sizeable benefits of switching their mortgage provider or product, and cumulatively this costs the nation an estimated £29bn every year, HSBC said.

It is a common misconception that a remortgage is for the purpose of taking on more debt but this isn’t the case.

Remortgaging pound for pound in pursuit of a better deal is a good idea and there is much to be gained in shopping around. We are encouraged to get the best deals form our utility providers, our mobile phone contracts and car insurances and this is no different. Since the Bank of England’s rate rise, borrowers on a tracker or variable rate mortgages have seen their monthly mortgage repayments go up by roughly £20 a month (£240 per year). Over the term of the mortgage this is a substantial amount. Re-mortgaging could therefore save you literally a small fortune.

Changing mortgage lender doesn’t have to be stressful or take up too much of your time. An independent mortgage adviser can do the leg work for you and the old saying, ‘nothing ventured, nothing gained’ certainly stands in this instance.

For further information regarding this article or to make an appointment to speak without any obligation to our independent mortgage advisers call 01691 653335, or email dphumphreys@prudentltd.co.uk

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A law firm is hosting a seminar in Oswestry with the aim of bringing employers up to date on changes to employment legislation.

John Merry

The session, run by Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors, will be looking at a variety of topics, including implications of GDPR, and will be held at Oswestry Townhouse on Tuesday, March 6, between 12.30 and 2.15pm.

Specialist lawyers from Lanyon Bowdler are also offering delegates the chance for a free 10-minute consultation after the seminar to discuss any particular issue regarding employment law.

John Merry, head of employment law at Lanyon Bowdler, said: “These seminars are are always very popular so we would advise booking in advance to avoid missing out.”

The event is free to attend, although HR consultants will be charged £25 (+VAT) per person. To book a place, visit www.eventbrite.co.uk and search Employment Law Update - Spring 2018.

For more information, email info@lblaw.co.uk or telephone 01743 280281.

Q&A

with GHP Legal’s Hywel Jones with

Why should property be registered at the Land Registry before the owner dies?

Q: My aunt has asked me to be the main executor of her Will. Among other assets, she owns two rental properties that were purchased outright and left to her by her late husband many years ago and which have been managed and let by an agent since his death. I have suggested to her that they may not be registered and this could cause a problem when they are sold but she insists not. I don’t think she understands the implications. Could you please outline them so that I can show her?

A: There are a surprising number of properties that were purchased years ago and have escaped registration due to not having been sold or re-mortgaged since. When compulsory registration was first introduced it was rolled out across the country in stages at the time the property changed hands. The last order was made in 1990, so now virtually all transactions in land result in compulsory registration.

One difference however was land changing ownership after death, where it was gifted rather than sold. Compulsory registration for gifted land and property did not come into force until April 1998. Similarly it became compulsory to register land when a mortgage is created on it in 1998.

If property is not registered and the owner dies or wants to sell and cannot locate the original hard copy paper deeds that may have been left in a bank or building society or with some long lost former family solicitor, then it can create a lengthy and expensive problem for those left to sort out their estate. It therefore makes sound sense for your aunt to find the deeds and get them registered whilst she is still alive and has capacity, as one day this will be a requirement anyway. Her solicitor can do this for her.

Further information relating to this question is available from Hywel Jones, a Solicitor with GHP Legal. For an appointment visit www. ghplegal.com or contact one of our offices: Oswestry 01691 659194, Chirk 01691 777949, Wrexham 01978 291456, Llangollen 01978 860313. We offer free legal diagnostic clinics (no appointment necessary). In Oswestry, Wednesdays 12noon-3pm for Personal Injury, Employment & Family matters. In Wrexham, Mondays 9.30am12noon for Employment matters, 12noon – 3pm for Personal Injury & Family matters. GHP Legal is authorised and regulated by the SRA 51566, and Lexcel Accredited.

Stevens Lucas

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37-39 Willow Street, SY11 1AQ 01691 659194 oswestry@ghplegal.com

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Oswestry life |

53

Investing in Oswestry

We’ve expanded into additional offices in Salop Road, and we’re growing our Oswestry team to help you with pensions, investments and planning your financial future. There’s lots of financial advice out there - but don’t you and your family’s finances deserve truly independent advice?

Call us for a no-obligation initial meeting today!

Beaumont Financial Planners Ltd., 21 Salop Road, Oswestry, SY11 2NR

t 01691 670524 e mail@beaumont-financial.co.uk

www.beaumont-financial.co.uk Beaumont Financial Planners Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Company registered in England number 8707394. Registered address Emstrey House North, Shrewsbury Business Park, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY2 6LG

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TITLE BOOKED: OSWESTRY LIFE This proof is produced as an electronic digital file to provide as accurate a guide as possible to typographical content and design elements.

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| Oswestry life

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HEALTH

Dr Paul Middleton

High Lea House Residential Home

Compliance: the act of obeying an order, rule or request

Friendly and Homely.

Cambridge Dictionary On the few occasions I have been given a course of antibiotics – 21 to last a week at three per day – somehow there is always one left in the bottle at the end of the week. Does that ring a bell with anyone?

It’s one of life’s mysteries how 21 tablets last more than the week.

Forty years ago, I was taught that patients need to be compliant with treatment. The word compliance implied that the doctor ordered the patient to do what they wanted. Patients were described - in muted voices - as non-compliant if they failed to follow orders. I used to be an examiner for aspiring GPs who had to submit video consultations as part of their assessment. It was astonishing how often doctors who listened carefully to their patients and were very inclusive changed when it got to the treatment phase of the consultation and then simply tried to tell the patient what to do, ignoring all the cues this person was giving to suggest it was not what they wanted. Not surprisingly the research shows that many patients were non-compliant.

Set in Beautiful gardens.

Established for over 30 years.

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Llanforda Rise, Oswestry SY11 1SY. Rated Good by CQC Inspection

Oswestry

01691 654090

Some years ago, a new word emerged: concordance.

This implies working together to agree on a treatment plan and again, not surprisingly, research shows patients are much more likely to follow through if concordance is

Hopefully this change in the medical professions’ attitude and behaviour is becoming more widespread as we get used to more empowered and knowledgeable patients achieved. So, what does concordance look or feel like?

The doctor informs the patient about treatment options and advises on the best option. The patient describes their preferences and feels involved in the decision made. Interestingly, non-concordance is now perhaps the doctor’s fault for not allowing the patients input!

Hopefully this change in the medical professions’ attitude and behaviour is becoming more widespread as we get used to more empowered and knowledgeable patients who want to be in a sort of partnership with the doctor.

Old habits die hard though and some of you may have to help your doctors to change.

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Oswestry life

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55

Book review

Poetry corner

Creative Flow A Year in My Mindful Life

Betwixt winter and spring Too early for the tortoise to wake from sleep Woolly jumpers and belted cardigans Signs of life in the cities gardens Over the horizon, the sun does creep No warmth; as winter still lies deep Birds not returned from foreign lands Too early.

by Jocelyn De Kwant Embrace the ‘now’ and enrich your life.

Creative Flow is a mindful workbook to treasure, encouraging the use of focused creativity to cultivate beautiful awareness every day.

Exploring meaningful ways we can appreciate each of life’s precious moments, this enchanting guide helps us to notice and note, embrace play, and focus again on breathing and simply being.

Jocelyn De Kwant invites us all to embrace a beginners’ mind, to add time back into our busy lives using the art of creative mindfulness.

Practical prompts entwine with lengthier meditative notes on the

56 | Oswestry life

£12.99 paperback ISBN: 9781782405610

joys of doodling and scribbling, and the joy of sensory play and reconnecting with the natural world.

This lovingly- illustrated workbook is a timely reminder of the ways in which creative flow can enhance and enrich our lives.

Lambs cry out for mother sheep Spring tides shift upon the sands Rivers flow as the willow bends No salmon yet to swim downstream Too early.

Jan Hedger is a local writer and poet. www.janscreativewriting.co.uk

Culture

Festival of remembrance plans under way November 2018 will see two of the most significant dates in the town of Oswestry’s long history Sunday 4 November will commemorate the centenary of the death of the famous war poet, Wilfred Owen followed seven days later on Sunday 11 November by the centenary of Armistice Day. As a fitting tribute to both Wilfred Owen who was born in Oswestry and to all those who laid down their lives for us during the terrible conflict of World War I it is intended to hold a festival of “commemoration and remembrance”.

The proposed festival will include a wide range of performances and events including poetry, drama, street theatre and re-enactment, musical performances, lectures, workshops, exhibitions, films, a light show, beacon lighting (a national event) and the unveiling of a new life-sized bronze statue of Wilfred Owen in Cae Glas Park, which has been commissioned and funded by Oswestry Town Council.

Chris Woods is the festival coordinator and began work on the project 12 months ago, bringing together a team of skilled and enthusiastic local people to help.

“We are working closely with our local primary and secondary schools and their involvement is very important to us in order to ensure that we leave a sustainable legacy regarding our heritage for future generations,” said Chris, “we believe we have put together an interesting, informative and exciting programme of events that will be both enjoyable and reflective, enabling people to participate and interact with them.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to commemorate arguably our greatest ever poet and remember the fallen from World War I in this centenary year. We genuinely believe this tribute to Wilfred Owen will bring many people into our town for both the festival and afterwards. Wilfred Owen is known all over the world and we, as Oswestrians are very proud of the fact he was born and spent his early years in the town.

“The memorial gates at the entrance to Cae Glas Park hold the names of 303 men killed in World War I, but many more men and women fell from the surrounding area, over 5,300 from Shropshire alone.

It was a time of terrible sacrifice and one that no matter how we look on it as a madness, it is a time we need to remember and commemorate. It was a time in history that changed the fabric of our society forever.”

Chris Woods, the festival co-ordinator

Chris’s paternal grandfather fought and was badly wounded at Pozieres on the Somme in 1916 with his great uncle losing a leg at Delville Wood and his maternal grandfather

fighting throughout the war in Egypt and Mesopatania, so the subject is very dear to his heart.

Chris has been involved throughout the centenary period of World War I, organising projects as a member of the Centenary Parnership with a membership of some 3,700 community organisations worldwide led by the Imperial War Museum.

One of his most recent projects will see the creation of a series of blue plaque footpath trails in Trefonen, Treflach and Nantmawr that will take people past the houses where the 31 who were killed from those villages in World War I lived. The paths will be accompanied by a book, maps and a descriptive leaflet as well as an existing section on the trefonen.org website. Chris has also written a play regarding his grandfather and World War I, which he hopes one day to see performed in Norfolk where he originates from.

However, the Wilfred Owen Festival is the focus of his attention at the current time and the organisers are still looking for helpers and interested parties that may wish to participate in some way. Whilst some grants have been applied for there are still opportunities for sponsorship and any firms interested in offering support are asked to email Chris on info@ wilfredowenoswestry2018.org.uk.

Details of the festival can be found at www.wilfredownoswestry2018. org.uk as well as on facebook: ‘Wilfred Owen Oswestry’.

Oswestry life | 57

Nostalgia

Down memory lane

Historian David Owen takes a trip back in time to discover the fascinating history of the Wynnstay Hotel and the Wesleyan Church.

Wesleyan Church (circa 1910) Whilst Oswestry has lost many fine buildings over the centuries it is, perhaps, the Wesleyan Chapel (or Church as it’s sometimes called) that is best remembered.

Standing on the corner of Beatrice Street and King Street, the chapel was built in 1870 and opened for public worship in 1871. The previous Wesleyan Chapel had been located at Coney Green and was converted into the Cinema Palace upon the opening of the new chapel. It must be remembered that this was the English Wesleyan Chapel, distinct from the Welsh Wesleyan Chapel which was located in Penylan Lane and, later, in Victoria Road.

The building cost £3,000 to build and boasted a tower some 83 feet high.

When it was being built the excavations uncovered the old town moat which made it necessary to dig down some 28 feet to establish the foundations. This led to the incorporation of extensive basement rooms in the building which were not in the original plan. At the time of the

buildings erection King Street did not exist and was then constructed to join Oswald Road with Beatrice Street.

A combination of falling attendances and the massive running costs of the building (it could seat 440 worshippers) led to its sale in 1966 and it was demolished the following year (along with an adjoining building in Beatrice Street) and replaced with, what is now, the Morrisons petrol station.

The Wynnstay Hotel (circa 1957) The Wynnstay Arms Hotel (to give it its full title) gets its name from originally belonging to the Wynnstay Estate of Sir Watkin Williams Wynn. The original inn that occupied the site dates back to the 1720s and was, at various times, called the Bowling Green and the Cross Foxes, becoming known as the Wynnstay in the 1830s.

At the beginning of the 19th century it was an established 58 | Oswestry life

coaching inn and in 1808 the prestigious Royal Mail Coach from London to Holyhead began to make the journey via Oswestry rather than Chester with the Wynnstay its stopping point. This led to the Post Office (which had previously been located at the Cross) being moved to the Wynnstay in 1809.

In 1832 the Wynnstay received royal visitors when the then Princess Victoria and the Duchess of Kent visited the town. Such were the crowds to see the royal visitors that one woman was killed in the crush outside the hotel and, according to Watkins: “Tom Kinaston, the post boy, was turned out of the Wynnstay for being drunk!”

Motoring

Clocking up the smiles Journalist, car enthusiast and new dad Richard Jones test drives the Suzuki Vitara S around Old Oswestry Hill Fort, bringing baby Isabelle along for the ride Sitting on a train you hear all kinds of wonderful conversations. One topic on this particular commute was the speed at which technology advances, or in some situations doesn’t as one chap argued the case to be when it comes to milk floats returning to electric power and air travel still taking as long today as it did decades ago.

As I sat listening to these two gentleman I turned my attention to my daughter as she seems to be developing faster than any technology.

Having recently turned 10-months-old, Isabelle is already scooting around the house and climbing furniture like a seasoned professional.

The motoring world is no exception when it comes to progress.

I’m currently testing a Suzuki Vitara S - a popular SUV with a refined 1.4-litre petrol ‘Boosterjet’ engine.

The ’S’ model is the range-topper and is instantly recognisable due to 17-inch black alloy wheels, satin silver wing mirrors and a rear spoiler.

All very nice, but what impressed me most was its sophisticated fourwheel drive technology.

I’d previously had the pleasure of examining Suzuki’s ‘AllGrip’ credentials during an off-roading event through a quarry in south Wales. On that occasion it proved more than capable of tackling challenging muddy forest tracks and steep inclines. Downhills were no problem either, simply engage Hill Descent Control and the car brings you down vertiginous slopes at a controlled speed without the need to touch the brake pedal.

So when the Vitara arrived on my driveway the only question was ‘where to go?’ Where has steep tracks, uneven ground and stunning views?

The answer, easy, Old Oswestry Hill Fort. It is one of the best preserved hill forts in Britain and once the principle settlement of an Iron Age tribe. Today it is one of Shropshire’s most popular attractions. The only problem being, driving a car on it is strictly forbidden.

Thankfully I could already vouch for Suzuki’s off-roading ability, so instead I mapped a meandering route through the Welsh Marches before parking the car and walking up the breathtaking monument with Isabelle strapped to my front. It was a good plan too because on the open road the Vitara’s BoosterJet engine - small but capable of delivering the sort of power you’d expect of a diesel - came into its own.

There’s loads of low-rev torque and it shifts along nicely in the upper gears when the need for overtaking arises.

It makes for an excellent family car too. There’s ample boot space for a pram and despite sitting in the back, Isabelle, being the inquisitive person she is, enjoyed the large rear windows that made taking in the surrounding countryside all the more effortless.

Once at the hill fort we had the most wonderful daddy-daughter day. I will forever cherish the beaming smile on her face as we strode along the historic pathway, and she even managed to giggle when the ‘AllGrip’ ability of my wellies wasn’t up to scratch and we very nearly slipped into a pool of mud! Something else that struck me about our adventure was how, despite all the talk of progression, this spectacular hill fort, built in

800BC, has stood the test of time and remains as beautiful now as I suspect it ever has done.

As for the car, Suzuki have shown that technological advances also have their place. For just over £21,000 you get a superb family 4x4 that does 52.3mpg and comes with the benefits of ‘must-haves’, such as Bluetooth and SatNav. With regards the men on the train, it was a silly argument and one I’d already heard on the radio earlier that week. What did amaze me though is no-one mentioned Concorde - an aeroplane which flew at supersonic speeds only to be retired when deemed too expensive. All technology is expensive at first, but the more investment and innovation it gets the cheaper it becomes. If Spyker hadn’t introduced 4x4 technology to the 60-HP race car in 1903 and Audi hadn’t shown their Quattro in 1980, would five of Suzuki’s seven models be fitted with AllGrip?

Oswestry life | 59

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Useful numbers

Expires: 15/04/2018

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Oswestry Town Council.................................... 01691 680222 Shropshire County Council ................................. 0345 678 9000

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Church Street Clinic .............................................. 01691 671413 My Dentist ............................................................. 01691 658114 Oswyn House Dental Practice ............................. 01691 652424 Thomas Dental Care............................................. 01691 653074 Willow Street Dental Practice .............................. 01691 652143

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Holy Trinity School ................................................ 01691 654832 Moreton Hall School............................................. 01691 773671 Oswestry School ................................................... 01691 655711 Our Lady and St. Oswalds Catholic School ........ 01691 656080 The Marches School ............................................. 01691 664400 The Meadows School ........................................... 01691 656080 Woodside School ................................................. 01691 652446

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Alert Furniture Scheme ........................................ 01691 655895 CHALK CIC ............................................................ 01691 655895 Childline ..................................................................... 0800 11 11 Citizens Advice Bureau ....................................... 03444 991 100 Crime Stoppers ...................................................... 0800 555 111

Electricity power loss emergencies .................... 0800 001 5400 Gas Emergencies ................................................... 0800 111 999 Oswestry Library ................................................... 01691 677388 Police-Ambulance-Fire .......................................................... 999 Police non emergencies ........................................................ 101 Severn Trent Water .............................................. 0800 783 4444

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www.attfieldtheatre.co.uk www.kinokulture.org.uk www.oswestrychamber.org.uk For the latest www.oswestry.life local news and www.oswestry-tc.gov.uk sport follow www.oswestrymuseum.org.uk www.shropshire.gov.uk Oswestry.life www.tnsfc.co.uk www.veolia.co.uk/shropshire Oswestry Household recycling centre 9am-5pm (Closed Christmas day, Boxing day and New Years day)

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63

Kids fun

By Katie Millard of Baby Bird Café

After the bitter cold of February, March is when winter finally loosens its grip, and we look forward to Spring. New life starts to appear – lambs in the fields, sunshineyellow daffodils, birds beginning to nest – so what better month to celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday 11 March? Why not spoil Mum with breakfast in bed and a bunch of these tissue paper flowers – perfect for little ones to make?

Make:

Tissue paper flowers You will need: • • • •

Squares of coloured tissue paper Green pipe-cleaner Scissors Ribbon

Method:

• Take your tissue paper square and fold into a concertina shape. Round off each end with scissors.

• Fold in the middle so you have created a fan-like shape.

• Fold a pipe-cleaner in the middle and place around the tissue paper fan, doing a little twist to secure it.

• Gently start to tease apart the ‘petals’ of the fan to create a flower-like shape.

• Twist the pipe-cleaner together to form a stem.

• A single flower or bouquet of tissue paper flowers can be made – tied with a ribbon is a lovely keepsake.

Bake:

Mother’s day French toast You will need: • • • • • •

2 eggs 45 ml milk (or cream for extra decadence!)

Generous sprinkle of cinnamon 2 slices of bread (day-old if possible) A drizzle of oil or small knob of butter to fry Icing sugar, honey and fresh strawberries to serve

Method:

• In a shallow bowl, whisk your eggs and milk together, until well combined. Add a generous sprinkle of cinnamon and mix.

• Take your bread slices (bread that is too fresh may fall apart) and dip both sides until bread is covered well and semi-saturated.

• Heat your oil or butter in a frying pan and fry bread on both sides until golden brown

• Dust with icing sugar/ drizzle with honey and serve with fresh strawberries

Baby Bird Cafe hosts bespoke birthday parties, vintage afternoon tea, baby showers and crafting activities throughout the holidays. www.babybirdcafe.co.uk

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Competitions

Whittington International Chamber Music Festival Whittington’s sixth music festival in the church opposite the village’s moated castle runs from 15-20 May and is an exclusively Brit ‘Fantasia’. Featuring no less than 17 British classical composers, it includes a reminder that many of them got their inspiration from our island’s vibrant folk traditions.

If you’re a Shropshire folkie, you’ll love the Friday concert with violinist Donald Grant.

For most of the week Donald will be playing music by such classical favourites as Elgar and Vaughan Williams with the Elias Quartet and other world-class artists. Lesser known composers also feature in the programme including suffragette Dame Ethel Smyth and Oswestry’s own Sir Henry Walford Davies. In the centenary year of the 1918 Armistice the Sunday concert will feature works composed that year.

A ticket costs £15 (free for 8-25 year olds) and is available at Rowanthorn in Oswestry’s Old Chapel Court, Whittington Post Office and online www.whittingtonmusicfestival.org.uk Win a pair of tickets to see one of the six concerts this May by answering this question: How many classical composers does the event feature?

There will be chicks hatching, an equine display, treasure hunt, climbing wall, face painting, vintage machinery and much, much more.

Free parking is available at Walford Campus or the Corbet School for park and ride. The event costs just £10 per family.

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Spring is just around the corner and North Shropshire College is hosting its popular Spring Lambing day on 25 March at the Walford Campus. There are lots of familyfriendly activities on offer, including meeting the new-born lambs and even watch one being born if you time it right!

You’ll also see more than 90 species of animals from snakes and chinchillas to meerkats and alpacas.

d

Family tickets to Spring Lambing day

Two lucky winners will each get a family ticket for the Spring Lambing day, just tell us how many species of animal can you expect to see at the event?

‘Man Engine’ at Blists Hill The largest mechanical puppet ever constructed in Britain, the Man Engine, is coming to Blists Hill Victorian Town on Saturday 14 April when it will be the ‘star’ of spectacular daytime and evening events.

Weighing nearly 40 tonnes, the Man Engine crawls at 4.5m high and ‘transforms’ to stand at nearly 12m. Engineered in Cornwall to mark the 10th anniversary of the county’s World Heritage status, the Man Engine is touring venues across the UK to celebrate Britain’s rich industrial heritage.

The Man Engine will be centre stage at the amazing and spectacular hour-long ceremony at 2.00pm and 8.30pm when the audience will be asked to help wake the puppet from its slumber. Bring along your enthusiasm, energy and loudest voice to help the Man Engine Team raise the sleeping giant to its full height with songs and chants.

The day time event is perfect for families as young visitors are also invited to join in the Miners’ Parade and have a go at printing, candle dipping and building a mini steam engine, amongst many other hands-on activities.

For further information, call the Ironbridge Tourist Information Centre on 01952 433 424 or visit www.ironbridge.org.uk.

To win a family ticket (two adults, three children) to go along to the Man Engine event, simply answer the following question: How much does the Man Engine weigh?

COMPETITION RULES: Closing date for competitions is 30/03/18 unless otherwise stated. Send your entries, along with your name, address, email and telephone number on a postcard to Oswestry Life Magazine, Unit 2, Glovers Meadow, Oswestry, SY10 8NH or by email to info@oswestrylife.co.uk or enter on the website: www.oswestry.life. By entering any competition within this publication you consent to Oswestry Life and the promoters contacting you for marketing purposes. Your data will not be shared with any other party. For full terms and conditions please refer to www.oswestry.life

Oswestry life | 65

LAST WORD Mum’s the word Mother’s Day is nearly upon us and I can’t wait to see what show of love and gratitude my children will bestow upon me. A 10am lie in perhaps? A day without tantrums? Or maybe a simple homemade gift. I think that’s how it tends to happen in the movies.

In my house it’ll be business as usual no doubt.

That means Florence (age 3) waking the rest of the house up at the crack of dawn, followed by a fight with her brother Caleb (age 6) over the ipad/TV/sofa or whatever else she’s decided she wants to herself that morning. I imagine that’s not far from the experience of most other mums. It’s no surprise then that research has found that what mothers actually want this Mother’s Day is not expensive gifts or posh meals, they want something much simpler. Peace and quiet.

A survey of 1,000 mums carried out by Debenhams found that on average mothers spend up to eight hours each day performing parental duties (cooking, cleaning, school drop offs). To top it off, they also discovered mums get just six hours sleep each night.

And what about mum’s who work full time too? We have to cram the parental duties in between 6-8pm weeknights and over the weekends.

Thankfully I’m not alone, the number of mothers with dependent children employed in England has surged by more than a million over the past 66

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two decades according to the Office for National Statistics. That’s three quarters of women in full or parttime work still managing to squeeze those mummy duties in as well.

It’s no wonder then that we’re all looking for a bit of a break from the old routine this Sunday 11 March.

Dad’s and children take note; here’s eight ideas to treat the over-worked mums this Mother’s Day: 1. A lie in – so simple, costs nothing and you could even throw in a breakfast in bed if you’re feeling really generous. Just a few extra hours in bed could make all the difference to mum’s mood for the rest of the day.

2. A day of pampering – if you can afford it send her off to a local spa for the day, if not, create your own in-home spa – scented candles, a hot bath, you could even give her a manicure and paint her nails. Mum’s never felt so relaxed!

3. Flowers – the old classic, for a personal touch why not pick your own and present them in a home-made bouquet with a sweet message attached.

4. Chocolate/wine – give your mum her favourite indulgence this Mother’s Day and let her enjoy it guilt free.

Research has found that what mothers actually want this Mother’s Day is not expensive gifts or posh meals, they want something much simpler.

Peace and quiet.

5. A new watch – help your mum manage her time better with a brand-new watch.

6. Afternoon tea – give mum the day off cooking duties and treat her to a delicious afternoon tea at her favourite restaurant.

7. Remote control – let mum have control of the TV all day to watch re-runs of whatever she wants, no complaining!

8. Go to bed on time without moaning and sleep until daylight the next day.

Mums - however you spend your day, I hope it’s relaxing and you feel appreciated for the wonderful job you do. Happy Mother’s Day.

Charlotte Ruscoe

e: charlotte@oswestry.life

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Oswestry life | 67

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Our experienced staff will take your room measurements and turn your ideas into a 3D plan so you can see exactly how your kitchen will look in your home.

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Mon - Fri 7:30am - 5:00pm, Sat 8:00am - 1:00pm, Sun Closed