Yattar Yattar Nov-Dec 2014 by Brillybox Publishing & Media

Sa tu M O rd ay O PE 1 R N 10 5th N am No IN – vem G 1p b m er 20 14

Ruthin School News

Congratulations to A Level Students. Our Best Results Ever! Statistics • 38 students sat A Level • 36.00% of grades at A* (2013: 19.89%) • 69.33% of grades at A*-A (2013: 60.23%) • 90.00% of grades at A*-B (2013: 81.25%) • 100% pass rate • UCAS Points per Candidate 466.84 (2013: 366.42)

University Entrance The top universities in which our students will continue their studies include: • Cambridge (5 students) • Durham • Edinburgh • Exeter • Imperial College, London • Manchester • Nottingham • Southampton • University College, London • Warwick • York

Top Student Shelly Wang was this year’s top student, achieving 5 A* grades at A Level and one A grade at AS Level. She also achieved 600/600 in her Further Mathematics modules and 300/300 in her Chemistry A2 modules. Shelly will go to Downing College, Cambridge, to study Engineering.

FOR A PROSPECTUS OR TO ARRANGE A TASTER DAY

Telephone: 01824 702543

General points: ■ Co-educational 11-19 years ■ Average class size is 10 ■ Pupils are taught by specialist staff. Several have PhDs and a number were educated at Oxbridge ■ Sport, music, drama, volunteering and a range of activities contribute to the non-academic life of all pupils

www.ruthinschool.co.uk RS_37924_Yatter_Nov_Dec_2014.indd 1

22/10/2014 17:01

yattar yattar

magazine

™

Publisher Dan Bromage dan@brillybox.co.uk Editor Stephanie Anne Lloyd editorial@yattaryattar.co.uk Senior Sales Executive Emily Shone emily.yattar@yahoo.co.uk Senior Sales Executive Kelley-Jo Beattie kelley_yattar@yahoo.co.uk Sales Executive Rachel Priamo rachel.yattar@yahoo.co.uk Production Editor Olivia Abbott olivia_yattar@yahoo.co.uk Features Writer Gill Chetcuti Art Editor Julie Gagen julie@suburbiadesign.co.uk Reproduction Thomas Gagen thomas@suburbiadesign.co.uk Graphic Designer Mark Gunning mark@suburbiadesign.co.uk

Dear reader, T

he festive season is upon us and for the first time in my life I will not be in the UK for Christmas, but in sunny New Zealand to celebrate with my daughter and twin granddaughters. It has been a novelty not to work over the last two Christmases after the long years of hotels and supermarkets, and I guess that celebrating in the middle of summer will also be a new experience. As we see the old year out we will once again optimistically welcome in 2015 in the hope that it will have a better outcome and resolve disputes for the hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians killed, injured or displaced. At this time, as we are buying in gifts and more food and drink than we will ever consume, we should think of those less fortunate than ourselves such as lonely pensioners and the homeless. It is easy to slip some coins in a collection tin but time and a kindly gesture made on a personal basis is much more satisfying. I have paid for specific projects, dental checkups and treatment for an Indian orphanage as just one example. Nothing to boast about and best done quietly, but at least I know that my FREE Festive contribution had a personal benefit to those in real need rather than being spent on Let it snow! Feasts administration and staff at a large charity. 164 I am always amazed at the ‘things to see and do list’ that our team of eager beavers dig out for each issue and this edition is no exception with an almost bewildering array featured. While I am involved in many businesses, this publishing venture is the one closest to my heart as it reaches out to communities WIN! and gives a voice to everyone. Dan and I recently treated the staff to an Indian meal Brilliant gift ideas at Maahi’s who always do us proud, and a riotous evening was had by all. I departed long before it reached its climax, after all at 68, Christmas Cheer I do need every bit of beauty sleep I can get... A collection of Best wishes to you and yours, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

£2.50 WHERE SOLD

-PAGE CHRISTMAS ISSUE!

WHAT S ON?

yOUR bUMP ER 44-PAG GUIDE TO E IN NOVE EVENTS AND DEcEMbER MbER

TURN TO PAGE 156

H A THOMAS SAbO 'ETERNITy' NEckLAcE H A JAM-PAckED LUDLOW FOOD cENTRE HAMPER H SkIN cREAMS FROM ELEGANcE SkIN cARE H A HARLEcH FOODS GIFT PAck

Yattar Yattar Magazine, Brillybox Publishing & Media Ltd, CDC Distribution Centre, Unit 13, Vauxhall Industrial Estate, Ruabon, Wrexham LL14 6HA. Telephone: 01978 813035 www.yattaryattar.co.uk ISSN 2042-8588 YATTAR YATTAR is published bi-monthly by Brillybox Publishing & Media Ltd. Every effort is made to ensure that the information and advice contained in these articles is correct and appropriate, but no responsibility for loss or damage occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action in reliance on or as a result of anything omitted from such articles can be, or is accepted by, the authors, the publishers, their employees or any other persons connected with Brillybox Publishing & Media Ltd. Views expressed by contributors to YATTAR YATTAR are not necessarily those of the magazine or of Brillybox. Save as expressively permitted by law no part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written authority of the Publisher. © 2014 Brillybox Publishing & Media Ltd, all rights reserved. Registered Number: 7725045.

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FIND THE bEST LOcAL SUPPLIER FOR ALL yOUR yULETIDE NEEDS

FROM PARADES TO PARTIES, LIGHTS, GROTTOS AND FESTIVE FAIRS – IT'S ALL INSIDE!

PLUS H NEW YEAR'S EVE H SHORT BREAKS H WINTER FASHION H PANTO GUIDE

StephANIe ANNe LLoyd Proud Editor

Christmas cupcakes for this issue’s cover

In this issue...

Contributors Rachel Coman, Anthony Dunstan-Burns, Alison Ensor, Emyr Evans, Aunty Jane, Mark Lampkin, Gloria Mans, P Parker, Kate Rock, Glyn Smith, Louise Tomlin, Lucy Tubbs, Graham Uney, Tommy Bromage And a huge thanks to our work experience students… Sarah Forster, Chelsie Taylor

GET OUT THERE AND MAkE THE MOST OF WINTER

bE INSPIRED by OUR GREAT cHRISTMAS HRISTMAS REcIPES

WINtEr WONDErLaND Brilliant ideas for things to see and do and ways to make this your best winter ever, p56

WIN! WIN!

Fancy a christmas hamper stuffed with goodies? or a beautiful necklace for yourself or to give as a gift? or a giftbox full of natural beauty treats? turn to page 156 for your chance to win all of these and more!

PrESENt tENSE? Solve all your gift-buying dilemmas, p48 What DO YOu WaNt tO DO tODaY? You’re guaranteed a great day out with our comprehensive what’s on guide, p6

h JoIN the Yattar Yattar commuNIty! Keep in touch with us, let us know what you think of the magazine, plus keep up to date with all that’s going on in our region. Join our hordes of followers on Twitter and Facebook – follow us on twitter, @yattaryattar and like us on Facebook, www.facebook.com/ yattaryattarmagazine

h Got SomethING to Shout ABout? Are you organising an event? Are you doing something for charity? Do you know someone who deserves to be recognised? Whether you’re an organisation, a community group or an individual, if you’ve got something to shout about, we want to help you get it out there. Drop us a line and tell us what you’re up to.

h Get puBLIShed! Do you write poetry or prose, or perhaps do some photography in your spare time? Would you like to see your artistic efforts published in the region’s most popular magazine? Send us some examples of your work, and you could be seeing your name and words or pictures in Yattar Yattar magazine

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 3

festive family fun

Enjoy an unforgettable Christmas with us Chirk Castle and Erddig (Wrexham, Wales) Chirk Castle 13 to 21, Erddig 4 to 21 December Whether you’re looking for Father Christmas or the Lord of Misrule, an illuminated after-dark stroll or a medieval feast for the senses, family walks, carriage rides or Christmas craft activities - you’ll enjoy an unforgettable experience with us. Booking essential for breakfast with Father Christmas, grotto, Chirk carol concert, gala dinner and Erddig glow events. Call 0844 2491895 or book online. Chirk 01691 777701 Erddig 01978 355314 nationaltrust.org.uk Share your Christmas traditions with us Christmas pattern inspired by wallpaper at Wimpole Estate, Cambridgeshire. © National Trust 2014. The National Trust is a Registered charity no. 205846. National Trust Images.

Contents

p95 Light up your life this winter

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 6 What’s On All the best events, shows and days out throughout North Wales, Mid Wales, Shropshire and Cheshire

What do you want?

What would you like to see more of in Yattar Yattar? Let us know at editorial@ yattaryattar.co.uk

p84 Cracking Christmas recipes

erence

diff p53 Give a gift with a

p89 Inspired by Dylan Thomas

36 It’s behind you! It’s panto time! Here’s our round-up of the best dames and villains this Christmas 38 Reviews Food festivals, orchestral extravaganzas, even Lady Gaga – what did we think? 40 Bright Lights, Big City Our pick of the big city shows in Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham 43 Christmas Fairs Where to buy your seasonal goodies and soak up the yuletide atmosphere 48 Ultimate Christmas shopping You complete guide to buying local for Christmas 56 Make the most of winter Whether you want to take up winter sports or curl up with a good book, we’ve got some great ideas for you to have your best winter ever

p17 Winter events at Gregynog Hall

p43 Christmas Fairs

63 Happy New Year! Travel around the world in 24 hours to celebrate new year in every time zone

100 In the garden Plan your hedging, get pruning and brighten up with some winter colour 105 Pets and Wildlife Grooming your pet, welcoming winter visitors, plus your cute pets and more 109 Fashion Christmas party dresses and warm winter wraps from your local boutiques 112 Online shopping You don’t have to leave your sofa to shop local with our round-up of the region’s best internet shopping providers 116 Health & Beauty The most important two minutes of your day, winter skin protection, expert advice and much more 127 Schools News Sporting achievements, DofE awards, outdoor classrooms, new heads – it’s all going on at your local school 134 Book Club Great reads from local authors, plus literary events near you

67 Party, party Great ideas for planning the perfect Christmas bash

137 Poetry corner We’ve dedicated a whole page to readers’ creative verse

72 Christmas Escapes Let someone else do the hard work with one of these great seasonal offers from local hotels

141 Volunteering Ideas for getting out and helping in your community, plus local hero

75 Food and Drink Christmas hampers, winter beers from local brewers, fabulous farm shops, perfect pubs and much more

145 Motoring, finance and legal Advice from the experts

83 Festive feasts Create an amazing Christmas dinner with these mouthwatering recipes from local chefs and producers 89 Arts Corner Make your own decorations, win a Dr Who caricature and find all the latest exhibitions and events

p36 Panto-monium!

95 Homes & Interiors Bespoke gates, advice on wooden floors, plus great shopping ideas

150 Crossword and Subscription Offer – have Yattar Yattar delivered to your door! 152 Your Stars What does your future hold? 154 Aunty Jane Everybody’s favourite aunty on Christmas shopping (of course!) 156 Competitions Great prizes up for grabs 159 Reader Letters

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 5

WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES

Rally yourselves! Get ready for action, car sports fans – the eagerly anticipated Wales Rally GB, final round of the FIA World Rally Championship, with the world’s best drivers and teams going head to head – hits north Wales from 13th-16th November. The event kicks off on the Thursday evening with a ceremonial start at Eirias Stadium in Colwyn Bay, and over the weekend the competition is battled out through 23 ‘special stages’, the majority in the legendary Welsh forests. Two of the stages are held in darkness on the Saturday night, giving the drivers a real challenge and offering some thrilling viewing for spectators. There’ll be free entry to the new service park in Deeside, where the teams will be based over the weekend, as well as to the ceremonial start and finish, while passes for the whole rally – providing access to all 23 special stages, including the RallyFests at Chirk Castle and Kinmel Park – are £99, with passes for individual stages and events from £20. Plus childen get access for just £1, when accompanied by a paying adult. Toseland, the band fronted by double World Superbike Champion James Toseland will be adding a live performance on Saturday night at the official service park in Deeside. And that’s free too! Visit www.walesrallygb.com or call 0844 847 2251.

All aboard for the Santa Special!

What’s On at Gladstone’s Library Victorian Studies Colloquium, 14th November An interdisciplinary conference exploring Victorian studies in Wales and the North West of England. A chance to engage with other likeminded people particularly aimed at postgraduates and staff of universities in the North West.

Join Santa and his elves for a trip along the line with the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway this Christmas. These trains promise to be great fun for adults and children alike, as Santa and his elves pass through the train giving out presents to the children during the journey – with plenty of laughter and jokes along the way! Trains run between Porthmadog and Tan-y-Bwlch, and between Caernarfon and Waunfawr. At Tan-yBwlch and Waunfawr you’ll have the opportunity to stretch your legs and take atmospheric photos with Santa and his helpers. On the return journey, adults will enjoy a glass of sherry and a mince pie – it’s not just all about the children you know! Plus you can buy those last minute Christmas presents from the railway’s souvenir shops at Porthmadog or Caernarfon, and if you choose the Ffestiniog option you can have lunch and a pint at Spooner’s café/bar, which serves meals and snacks for all the family.Advance booking recommended. Go online and visit www.festrail.co.uk or call 01766 516070.

Great British Films, 8th-11th December A chance to watch, then discuss (or argue about) the best 10 British films ever made. Films to be discussed this year include Don’t Look Now, The Third Man, Distant Voices, Still Lives, Kes and A Matter of Life and Death. Visit www.gladstoneslibrary.org or call 01244 532350. 6 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

Celebrate at Brymbo Kick off your Christmas celebrations with a Christmas Party Night at Brymbo Sports and Social Complex on Friday, 19th December. The ticket price of £25 per person includes a welcome drink on arrival, three-course meal with coffee and mints and live entertainment from excellent duo Saxed Up, plus a disco so you can dance the night away. There’s more entertainment to see in the New Year, too with with top five-piece group The Manytones plus a disco to keep you partying into the early hours of 1st January. Tickets are £10 and there will be hot food available, too. To find out more, visit www.brymbosportscomplex.co.uk or call 01978 752577

TOM CHECK IMAGES

Winter events at Llangollen Railway

13th December, Real Ale Train Step on board and soak up the atmosphere – along with a pint or two of real ale from the Llangollen Brewery on offer at the well-stocked bar. It’s a double return journey and the price includes a free glass and a pint for all prebooked tickets. 6th-7th, 13th-14th, 20th-24th December, Santa Specials

Hop aboard the specially decorated steam train for a magical trip to Lapland (OK, it’s Carrog, but don’t tell the kids that) and Santa’s grotto. Each well-behaved boy and girl will get a special gift on the journey, while the lucky adults will be plied with mince pies and mulled wine from Santa’s Little Helpers. Visit www.llangollenrailway.co.uk or call 01978 860979.

What’s On in brief

Cruise through Christmas Give the family a Christmas treat with a difference this year, in the form of a mulled wine and mince pie canal cruise. Llangollen Wharf Boat Trips are offering special two-hour cruises for the festive season, taking you on their motorised canal boat, the Thomas Telford, through the beautiful Vale of Llangollen and across the famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, while you enjoy some super seasonal fare. The purpose-built boat is fully weatherproof and centrally heated with a bar open throughout the journey, too, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy stunning views of the beautiful countryside, and marvel at the engineering wonders. This length of the canal is a World Heritage Site and the Pontcysyllte – the country’s biggest navigable aqueduct – towers a massive 126ft (38m) above the River Dee. You can choose to travel from Llangollen to Froncysyllte or vice versa, and free bus transfer back to your start point is included in the ticket price of £12.50 adult and £10.50 child. Trips run on various dates in November and December, visit www.horsedrawnboats. co.uk or call 01978 860702 for more information.

Nadolig Llawen! Head for the village of Betws-y-Coed for some truly community-orientated Christmas fun this December. Nadolig Llawen (Welsh for ‘Merry Christmas’) in Betws-y-Coed, is a weekend of events organised by community volunteers and this year all sorts of things are taking place. As well as a Father Christmas, there’ll be fancy dress competitions for children (and adults will be getting dressed up too!), and a host of activities will take place on the main green including musical performances in a variety of genres from brass band to jazz and folk. There’ll be a lantern parade through the village, and horses and traps transporting Father Christmas and his elves. On top of all this, villagers with a theatrical bent have been hard at work in rehearsals for their panto Cinderella – The Last Rehearsal, which will be presented at the Memorial Hall at 7pm on the Saturday, in an evening that promises to be full of fun, frolics and big surprises. Nadolig Llawen yn Betws-y-Coed, 6th7th December. Find more information on Facebook – search ‘nadoligbetws’.

•

l 7th-9th November, North Wales Choral Festival Choirs from all over the world will gather at Venue Cymru in Llandudno, to battle it out for the top prize in five categories – male, ladies, youth, mixed and barbershop. The weekend also includes school workshops, concerts and community performances.

l 8th November, Betws-y-Coed Trail Challenge Get your running shoes on for your choice of a 5K or 10K challenge through the beautiful wooded hillsides around the village of Betws-y-Coed.

l 8th-9th November, Anglesey Winter Show This annual agricultural event is held indoors but still features competitive classes for cattle, sheep, pigs and light horses, plus cookery and crafts and agricultural trade stands.

l 15th November-24th December, Winter Treasures Craft Fair A chance to do some Christmas shopping in Llangefni, with a variety of quality contemporary work by some of the best makers in Wales on offer.

l 21st November, Mercury – the Ultimate Tribute to Queen One of the world’s most authentic tributes to Queen come to the Llangollen Pavilion, including performances of the most popular Queen hits from the height of their reign.

l 23rd November, Conwy Half Marathon Voted in the top five most scenic half marathons in the UK by readers of Runners World, it’s not hard to understand why, with a start and finish in front of the 700-year-old castle and a route that takes in Deganwy beach and the Great Orme.

l 29th-30th November Cariad Ink Tattoo Festival A unique boutique festival at Venue Cymru, complete with local and international tattooists as well as live music, performers and various vendors.

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 7

Photo: Nenard Obradovic

WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES

All a-glow at Erddig

Take an illuminated after-dark stroll around Erddig’s 18thcentury walled garden, this December for an unforgettable Christmas experience. Beautiful light installations and effects have been installed, to help you escape the bustle of the high street, relax and enjoy a feast for the senses with festive food, music and plenty of good cheer. With the house as a back-drop, Erddig Glow will reveal the Victorian parterre, avenues of pleached limes, grand lawns and iconic topiary as they have never been seen before. Timed tickets will be operating to ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience. Held 5-8pm, 5th-21st December. Booking is essential. And of course, Father Christmas is coming to Erddig – every weekend throughout December the Erddig dairy is transformed into a festive wonderland, with logs on the fire and gifts to share, plus Santa himself offering everybody some festive cheer. Call 01978 355314 or visit online at www.nationaltrust.org.uk for more information.

North Wales History

What’s On at Theatr Colwyn Whatê s On

Santa’s back at Llanberis Father Christmas makes his annual visit to the Llanberis Lake Railway this December. Take a short trip on the little steam train to the station by the lake where Santa will be waiting in his grotto to meet and chat with every child and give them a present. Adults aren’t forgotten either – there’s a mince pie and a glass of seasonal drink for all. For an extra-specially atmospheric trip you can take one of the twilight trains to see Santa’s grotto lit up in all its glory against the dark night. Trains run on 7th, 13th & 14th, and 20th & 21st December and must be booked in advance. For more information visit www.lakerailway.co.uk or call 01286 870549.

Let’s go disco! Fancy dancing the night

The Penrhyn Quarry Strike away in aid of a good cause? Penrhyn Quarry at Bethesda may be Then head for Treuddyn in the news these days for its deathVillage Hall, Flintshire, on 28th defying zip wire but at the turn of the November for WISP’s extra last century it was making headlines special Sparkly Christmas for another reason altogether. Disco. The fundraising event Owned by Lord Penrhyn at the for all the family includes a time, the quarry was the world’s largest, buffet and dancing from KNOW YOUR employing almost 3,000 men. However, 7pm till 11.30pm. The disco is being the workers were becoming increasingly HISTORY? held to raise money disenchanted with poor wages and If you would like to for local charity WISP little job security. Previous protests suggest a local site of Dance Club which had done little to resolve the issues historical interest to works with youngsters and, in April 1900, when quarry with special include here, tell us manager E A Young announced educational needs or that the practice of contributing all about it. Email to learning disabilities to the trade union would cease, the editorial@yattar across the five counties decision led to assaults on supervising in the area. The club yattar.co.uk contractors. Lord Penrhyn pressed charges meets each week to enjoy against 26 of his quarrymen, prompting a dance and movement mass walkout from the rest of the workers. activities and have fun. After taking strike action the quarrymen returned to work Dancing together helps to only to discover that 800 of them no longer had jobs after increase self-esteem, the closure of eight banks. Again the workforce walked out. confidence, coordination Gradually, however, the quarrymen were forced back in order and wellbeing. to feed their families and pay their rents. They each received a You are welcome to take shilling and the promise of a five per cent pay increase but the your own alcohol; soft drinks will be available to purchase. strike, one of the largest disputes in the industrial history of To reserve tickets call 01352 Britain, was a massive blow to the north Wales slate industry, 770836, or pay on the door. which never really returned to its earlier level of productivity.

at Theatr Colwyn [body copy] Crazy Science: A Family Concert, 13th September Presented by Doug Horley (• Duggie Dug Dugê ) and his team, this is a lively childrenê s Andrew Newton, hypnotist, 14th songs, November show with Andrew Newton brings puppets his comedyand show back to north Wales. Newton activities with offers some fascinating lots ofinto audience insights the mind, punctuated participaby spells of side-splitting tion. Any laughter. age can Pws Mewn enjoy theBwts, 24th November fun while A Welsh version of the famous Puss in Boots learning about the adventure. Panto dame Martyn Geraint returnss wonders of Godê with an array of posh creation. frocks and there’ll be United We Stand – The Story of Ricky Tomlinson and Des Warren, 12th November In 1972 tens of thousands of building workers won the first national strike in the industry for better pay and conditions. Large building companies wanted revenge, and the ‘Shrewsbury 24’ were put on trial. United We Stand focuses on the true events that led to the imprisonment of building workers Des Warren and Eric (Ricky) Tomlinson.

lots of fun, music, dance, special effects and interactivity for all.

Paul Sinha, 19th September A Chorus of Disapproval, 26th-28th For wellNovember over a An evening of comedy decade has and farce,Paul beginning when diffident North beenamaking Country widower his name in the from attempts to escape his loneliness by joining world of stand-up the local amateur light operatic society. comedy. He may EH P Lake, DQ\W KL QJV Swan 10th quizDecember geek, doctor, One of the best-known Gemini, love stories, sports performed by the ever-popular fanatic, and, acVienna Festival Ballet. Lavish costumes, stunning cording to Jim scenery, Davidinternational stars, and son, • an glorious Indian music make this a night SR RI ø not to be missed. but first

www.wispdanceclub.com

8 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

Call 01492 577888.

COME ALONG TO

WALES RALLY GB

FOR AN ACTION-PACKED

FAMILY DAY OUT!

@WALESRALLYGB /WALESRALLYGB

DETAILS ONLINE AT OR CALL US ON

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WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES

What’s On at Rhyl Pavilion Peter Pan, 14th-15th November Powerplay Musical Theatre Company will fly the whole family to Neverland on an exciting adventure as Wendy, Peter and the Lost Boys attempt to defeat evil Captain Hook once and for all. With pirates, Indians, mermaids and fairies – everything you need for a magical evening… Brendan Shine, 16th November When you go to a Brendan Shine concert, you become part of the Shine party – an experience you’ll never forget. Expect many old favourites performed in Brendan’s inimitable style. Charlie Landsborough, 20th November Known for his melodic brand of Americana and finely honed ballads, Charlie’s music has touched hearts all around the world over the last 20 years. He’ll be playing tracks from his latest album Silhouette, as well as old favourites from the past.

Salute to the 70s Christmas Special, 21st November The ultimate dance floor show features the stars and heartthrobs from the greatest decade of pop music, including tributes to Elton John, Suzi Quatro, Rod Stewart, Debbie Harry, Donny Osmond, David Cassidy, Kate Bush, The Carpenters and a ‘dancing queen’ finish to the hits of ABBA. So dust off your platforms and pull on your outrageous flares for a night of 70s pop. The Welsh Factor, 25th Nov Now in its fourth year, the Welsh X-Factor showcases the best talent from Wales. Head along for the final – or you could even enter and, who knows, be the next winner!

Puttin’ on the Blitz Christmas Special, 30th November A 1940s transatlantic tribute to George Formby, Vera Lynn, Bing Crosby and many more. Visit www.rhylpavilion.co.uk or call 01745 330000.

Feeling frosty? While most of us are probably not looking forward to the coming cold weather, over at the Techniquest Glyndwr Science Centre, they can’t wait for winter to get here. And no, it’s not because it means Christmas is nearer – it’s because they get to do some totally cool demonstrations in the Frosty Science show in December. The science discovery centre, based in Wrexham, has more than 60 handson interactive exhibits all designed to challenge visitors’ understanding of science in a fun and educational way, and is a great destination for a family day out – it’s not just the kids who’ll learn something, guaranteed! The daily science shows are held in Techniquest’s 60-seat science theatre, and for Frosty Science they’ll be using all sorts of props and ingredients to show you how the extreme cold can affect us and the environment around us. As well as this, the centre has a number of regular clubs, including the Lego Challenge Club, where participants build and programme Lego robots to complete various challenges, and the Astronomy Club, which is open to people of all ages. There is also a special education programme for schools. Frosty Science shows take place at 1pm and 3.30pm on 6th-7th, 13th-14th, 20th-23rd and 27th-30th December. Visit www.tqg.org.uk or call 01978 293400.

What’s On in brief l Until 6th January, A Call to Remember In preparation for a larger service in 2016 focusing on the quarrymen from Dyffryn Nantlle who lost their lives in the great wars, here is a chance to have your say about how the Great War should be commemorated. At Llanberis Slate Museum.

l 3rd December, North Wales International Concert series Harriet Mackenzie, violin, and Danny Driver piano, perform compositions by Bach, Brahms and Prokofiev at Rhyl Town Hall.

l 6th December, Festive Prestatyn Meet Santa in his grotto and collect a sticker, a photograph and a present. There’ll also be a chance to meet two of Santa’s reindeers, live music, facepainting, rides and fun characters.

l 13th December, Christmas Choral Concert Bangor University Chamber Choir and Chorus, the William Mathias Chamber Choir and Cor Ysgol David Hughes come together in Prichard-Jones Hall to present an atmospheric concert of seasonal music including Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on Christmas Carols and Saint Saens Oratorio de Noel.

A medieval Christmas at Chirk Celebrate a medieval yuletide in style this year! Chirk Castle is holding medieval Christmas celebrations from the13th to the 21st December, with a host of events for the family to enjoy. Within the castle courtyard you can experience the sights, smells, sounds and tastes of an authentic medieval festivity. There’ll be medieval food to try, drinks to sample, and entertainment such as mummers plays and carolling. You’ll be able to chat with historical characters, pose under

l 13th December, Mold Choral

the kissing bough, and try your hand at traditional handicrafts – plus of course Father Christmas will be in his grotto waiting to meet the lucky children. The entire Castle courtyard and rooms will also be decorated in a traditional style – it promises to be a feast for the senses. Visit www.nationaltrust.org. uk for more information.

Society Christmas concert The society are joined by the Buckley Silver Band at St Mary’s Church for a feast of Christmas music, with well-known and loved carols, plus choir items to delight.

l 13th-14th & 20th–21st December, Father Christmas’ Victorian Kitchens Meet the busy servants and experience a Victorian lifestyle at Penrhyn Castle this Christmas. See Santa and receive a gift when he comes to the kitchen…

Get messy for Christmas!

Head for the National Trust’s Bodnant Garden this Christmas, to have some fun creating uniquely Bodnant-style Christmas crafts with the garden’s elves. You’ll need to make sure you’re dressed for the outdoors whatever the weather, and have suitable footwear on, ready for doing some potentially messy craft-making! Afterwards you can enjoy a hot drink and snack at the Tea Stop in the Dell, or have a meal at the Pavilion Tearoom. Events take place weekends, 29th-30th November and 6th-7th, 13th-14th and 20th-21st December. Booking is essential, call 01492 650460 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk

l 20th December, Decorate your Christmas cake Take your cake to Bodnant Welsh Food and professionally decorate it yourself, under the guidance of a cakedecorating specialist.

l 27th December, Book, Record, and Postcard Fair Three great fairs all in one venue! Head to Llandudno for a fair to suit all tastes with dealers selling a large range of items.

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 11

WHAT’S WHAT’SON ONNORTH NORTHWALES WALES

Music to your ears Wrexham Symphony Orchestra (WSO), resident at William Aston Hall at Glyndwr University, is one of the most progressive orchestras in north Wales with a membership of more than 50 players (including Yattar’s very own Rachel Priamo!) and regularly attracting professional conductors and outstanding soloists for its varied concert programmes. Recently, WSO has embarked on a project to perform all of Mahler’s symphonies in support of the Alzheimer’s Society. All proceeds are donated to support the work of the society, and they will be performing Mahler’s Symphony No 2 at Bridgewater Hall in Manchester on 30th May, 2015 . The orchestra also performs four main concerts a season. The next is on 22nd November at William Aston Hall, and will include the overture from Mozart’s The Magic Flute, and Brahms’ Violin Concerto and Symphony No 3. Visit www.wrexhamsymphonyorchestra.co.uk.

What’s On at The Stiwt The Real Thing, 15th November Britain’s No 1 soul band with their three original vocalists perform all their million-selling hits to celebrate 40 years in the business. Theatre Train, 16th Nov Another song and dance show showcasing the talents of pupils from Theatretrain schools in Wrexham, Chester and Mold. The pupils, aged six to 18 will take you on a trip down memory lane to the time of legwarmers, big hair and Rubik’s cubes – the 80s!

Dylan Thomas Final Journey, 22nd November Follow the Welsh poet from his ‘lovely, ugly’ home town of Swansea to his final journey to New York in 1953. An acclaimed one-man play starring Peter Read, a show of both comedy and tragedy.

Jazz up your winter

What’s On at Clwyd Theatr Cymru Not About Heroes, until 29th November This portrayal of the unique friendship between two of the Great War poets, Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon, Jazz is a uniquely and their moving journey to American genre which become poets.

DID YOU KNOW?

sprang from post-slavery

A jazz club recently established in African-American Joseph and Llandudno has been such a roaring success the Amazing culture to worldwide that it’s set to carry on jamming through the Technicolour popularity winter and well into next year. Tiffany’s Cafe Dreamcoat, and Bar began hosting live jazz nights in July and 11th-15th November, the popular eaterie has proved to be the perfect spot X Factor finalist Lloyd for some mood music. The basement bar has exactly the Daniels plays the title role right ambience for a jazz club – it’s small and intimate, with in this production, joined moody lighting, and is already attracting some of the finest jazz by Danielle Hope, who performers, both local and nationwide. won the BBC’s Over the Co-owner Simon Gardener is himself a respected musician Rainbow and who plays and producer, and the evenings are hosted by north Wales the narrator. jazz pianist Martin Higginson along with his band, and offer everything from Ella to Sachmo to Miles Davis. With great food Leonard Elschenbroich and also on offer, an evening of Jazz @ Tiffany’s is a great way to Alexei Grynyuk, kick off your weekend. 16th November, For more information on when Jazz @ Tiffany’s evenings Brilliant young German cellist take place, call 01492 879326. Leonard Elschenbroich is

Christmas on the Welsh Highland Railway On 13th and 14th December, Father Christmas will be visiting Welsh Highland Heritage railway to hand out presents to all those children on the good list (and a much-needed glass of mulled wine and a mince pie to the adults!). Booking is essential – contact the railway online at www.whr.co.uk or call 01766 513402.

Make friends at Wrexham Museum

a fast-rising international star, attracting plaudits as one of the most charismatic cellists of his generation. Candlelit Chistmas Guitars, 18th December Guitarist Richard Durrant’s repertoire includes early music, Christian, pagan and folk traditions plus many distinctive originals. Visit www.clwyd-theatrcymru.co.uk

The friends of Wrexham Museum hold monthly talks on a variety of subjects throughout the year, which are open to all. The next events are: Caergwrle Remembered, 18th November, talk given by Dave Healey Christmas Social, 16th December, with quiz and refreshments.

The Winter Mixer, 6th Dec An evening of music and entertainment along with mulled wine, hot chocolate and mince pies to kick off the festive season. 80s New Year, 31st Dec A night full of 80s hits with live music and disco plus plenty of food and drink. Dig out the purple lycra and show off your moves to enter into 2015. Visit www.stiwt.ticketsolve. com or call 01978 841300

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WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES

What’s On at

William Aston Hall Rhos Male Voice Choir, 15th November Founded in 1981, this choir from Rhosllanerchrugog is currently the most successful in Wales and every year raises thousands of pounds for local and national charities. The annual concert this year features guest soloist Rebecca Evans and Trystan Llyr Griffiths. The Levellers, 18th November The folk-punk legends bring their greatest hits tour to Wrexham, performing some of their best known songs for the first time in years, supported by The Selecter and She Makes War. Pws Mewn Bwts, 26th Nov A Welsh version of the famous adventure of Pws Mewn Bwts tells the tale of a very talented cat. After the roaring success of last year’s pantomime, Martyn Geraint will yet again be all dressed up in posh frocks to play the Dame and ensure a night full of laughs. Roy Chubby Brown, 12th November ‘Who ate all the pies’ this Christmas? Chubby Brown is back – still crude, rude and full of banter. 3 Daft Monkeys, 29th November The Cornish gypsyfolk band weave world music influences around classic folk melodies, with an infectious passion and joy for life. Visit www.glyndwr.ac.uk or call 01978 293293.

Sing your heart out!

What’s On at Venue Cymru

Fancy getting involved with a Moscow Ballet Classique, local community 10th November choir who do Russia’s finest bring the exciting things fairytale characters of like take trips to Poland? Wrexham Sleeping Beauty to life, Community Choir is inviting new members to come weaving their own magic along and sing their hearts out with them at weekly to Tchaikovsky’s dynamic practices. The choir, formed two years ago, is open and beautiful music. to everyone, regardless of age or experience with no auditions and no need to read music. Rambert featuring Rooster, Fifty members of the choir have just returned from 13th-14th November The rock’n’roll a three-day visit to Miedzychód in Poland where they swagger of the Rolling Stones is brought were the guests of the Lutnia Choir. The visit included thrillingly to life in Christopher Bruce’s several performances and the opportunity electrifying celebration of the to visit local cultural and heritage swinging sixties. Sharp-suited, sights. Wendy Paintsil, organiser of the snake-hipped men and choir, said: ‘This was an incredible strong, sassy women experience. We were treated with perform virtuoso courtship the utmost kindness and friendships. It has been discovered dances to some of the We are now working towards a Stones’ famous tunes. that when people return visit by the Lutnia Choir to sing together their Wrexham next summer.’ North Wales – an Weekly practices are held at the heartbeats synchronise, Inspirational Landscape, Methodist Church, Regent Street, 14th November having a calming 7.30-9.30pm. Call 01978 290680. The North Wales Wildlife

DID YOU KNOW?

effect…

Fun at Llyn Brenig There’s fun for all at Llyn Brenig this winter, beginning with a family fun day on 8th November. Activities to keep the kids (no matter what their age) entertained include a duck race, face painting, a Pudsey walk, colouring competition and craft making. All proceeds from the day go to Children in Need. And, of course, all of the site’s other facilities will be available to you – the visitor centre is open all year round, with a cafe and shop plus an adventure playground, picnic area. There’s also fishing, water-based activities, walking and cycle trails to explore. On 14th December it’s Llyn Brenig’s Christmas Fair – with a difference. Instead of coming on his sleigh, Santa will arrive by boat and then he’ll be waiting in his grotto. To find out more, visit www.llyn-brenig.co.uk or call 01490 420463.

An enchanted Christmas Don’t be stuck for something to do with the children on cold winter days this year – visit The Enchanted WoodBarn, GreenWood Forest Park’s indoor play centre, for hours of indoor fun. And while the children play, you can make the most of the GreenOak Café, which serves a variety of hot meals and snacks. Plus, Santa is coming to GreenWood – visit him in his grotto on 29th & 30th November, and 6th &7th, 13th & 14th and 20th & 21st December to receive a gift. Or, if your child would like to spend more time with Father Christmas (or has a tendency to get hungry!), you can book to have brunch or afternoon tea with Santa, on 26th November and 3rd, 10th & 17th December. Children will be able to enjoy brunch or afternoon tea while meeting the jolly man and receiving a gift; plus they’ll also have playtime in the WoodBarn. Call 01248 671493 or visit www.greenwoodforestpark.co.uk for more information.

Trust’s annual Lacey Lecture is this year given by Nigel Brown – a veritable one-man encyclopaedia and all-round natural history guru. Head along for a pocket guide to the fabulous landscapes of north Wales and be inspired to get out and discover these wildlife spectacles. Rumours of Fleetwood Mac, 15th November, The tribute band bring their World tour 2014 to Wales this winter, recreating all the classic hits. A Child’s Christmas in Wales, 20th-22nd November Adapted from the short story by Dylan Thomas, and capturing his astonishing imagery, humour and humanity, this performance from The Wales Theatre Company and Swansea Grand Theatre portrays the wonder and magic of Christmas almost a century ago, as seen through a child’s eyes. Robert Plant & the Sensational Shape Shifters, 27th November The Led Zep front man releases a new album with his new band this November and brings it to the road with a UK tour. Paul Hollywood Get Your Bake On, 4th December Just to add to the food overload we indulge in at Christmas time, TV’s baking star takes to the stage for recipe demonstrations and fun. At the end of the show, four lucky members of the audience will be chosen to go on stage with the baking king himself. Visit www.venuecymru.co.uk or call 01492 872000 to find out more.

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WHAT’S ON MID WALES

What’s On at Elan Valley Winter Craft Fair, 8th-9th November Shop for handmade jewellery, wildlife photographs, fair trade crafts, wooden crafts and much more, plus see live craft demonstrations. Project Wild Thing, 15th November Join selfappointed ‘marketing director for nature’ David Bond on his journey across the world as he attempts to reconnect with the natural environment, and convince us of the benefits of this amazing, free ‘product’. Tree-mendous Decorations, 7th December Learn how to make beautiful keepsake decorations from recycled leftover ribbons, wrapping paper and beads. Mince pies and non-alcoholic mulled wine provided! Santa’s Grotto, 20th-21st December Don’t miss the chance to visit Santa and deliver your Christmas wish list!

NOW that’s what I call music…

The BBC National Orchestra of Wales has been hitting the road again this year, and this winter brings two concerts to three different venues in mid and north Wales, led by conductor Francesco Angelico (pictured above). On November 28th and 29th, Celtic Impressions comes to Aberystwyth Arts Centre and Prichard-Jones Hall, Bangor respectively. This evening of music from different parts of the UK and Ireland comprises Mathias’s Dance Overture; Elgar’s Sea Pictures; Irish Rhapsody No.1 by Stanford and Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 3 in A minor, ‘Scottish Symphony’. Welsh composer Mathias wrote his lively Dance Overture for the 1962 National Eisteddfod in Llanelli , while Stanford wrote his beautiful Irish Rhapsodies as a love-letter to his homeland. Mendelssohn, meanwhile, was reportedly inspired to write his Scottish Symphony while travelling through the picturesque landscapes of that country. On November 30th there’s an Italian firecracker of a programme at Venue Cymru, Llandudno, with two fiery overtures from the stalwarts of Italian opera: Rossini’s comedy The Barber of Seville and Verdi’s dramatic La Forza del Destino. Pictures of Italy wraps up with Mendelssohn’s uplifting and joyously melodic fourth symphony, his ‘Italian’ which he was inspired to write while on holiday in the country. For more information and tickets visit www. bbc.co.uk/bbcnow or call 0800 052 1812.

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Dambusters Walk, 28th December Join the Elan Valley Rangers on an explosive tour of the area – a great opportunity to see the remains of the dam that played a crucial role in the lead up to the famous Dambusters raid. A four-mile walk with steep climbs. For more information visit www.elanvalley.org.uk or call 01597 810880.

Christmas treats at Talyllyn

k 20th, 21st & 24th December, Santa Specials Jump aboard at Tywyn Wharf and take a magical ride to ‘Plas Nadolig’ to meet Father Christmas. Every child will get to meet Santa and be given a present, plus there’ll be time for photos with the jolly man in red. On your return to Tywyn Wharf, it’s the adults’ turn for a treat, as you’re served complimentary mulled wine and mince pies, and hot winter warmer meals will be on sale. There’ll be a great, festive atmosphere, so arrive in plenty of time to soak it up. Advance booking is essential. k 26th December-1st January, Mince Pie Specials If you’ve been too busy to treat yourself over Christmas, why not take an atmospheric round trip from Tywyn Wharf to Nant Gwernol and back again on a Mince Pie Special? You can view the beauty of the winter countryside from the comfort of your heated carriage, complete with festive decorations, while enjoying some seasonal light refreshments. Visit www.talyllyn.co.uk or call 01654 710472.

What’s On at Theatr Hafren

What’s On in brief

A Child’s Christmas in Wales, 13th-15th November This adaptation of Dylan Thomas’s childhood memory is the climax of a year-long celebration of the poet and his works, and is a feast of Thomas’s astonishing imagery, humour and humanity. A Christmas Carol, 20th-22nd November A musical adaptation of Dickens’s classic from the Newtown Musical Theatre Company. Crashmat Collective presents Facade, 26th-27th November Crashmat Collective return with their sell-out show, an intimate and theatrical three-course meal, during which the performers are the restaurant staff… Countdown to Christmas, 12th December An evening of song and entertainment to raise money for Cancer Research and Plas Cae Crwn. www.thehafren.co.uk

Welshpool Town Festivities Welshpool gets into the swing of Christmas things on 5th December, kicking off with the lights switch on at 6.30pm on Friday. Entertainments include a fancy dress competition, the Christmas parade with Father Christmas, live music from Four Tissimo, plus street stalls, a market village and much more. Then on Saturday it’s the Winter Festival with a craft fair in the Corn Exchange, community and charity stalls in the Assembly Room, a Christmas street market and entertainment including the Melomanics, Ffonic and Sylvester the Jester, plus Father Christmas will be dropping in again, and much more.

Christmas at Gregynog Hall Christmas Party Nights 5th, 6th, 13th December Organising the office party or family get together this Christmas? Dining and disco for £26.50 in the traditionally decorated hall. Bed and breakfast accommodation available. Christmas Concert, 7th December, 3pm An afternoon concert of seasonal music with a return performance from the winner of the 2014 Gregynog Young Musician competition. Tea and mince pies included. Festive Afternoon Teas, 8th-12th December Meeting up with family or friends for Christmas? Enjoy a festive afternoon tea with a glass of mulled wine in the historic Blayney Room. Prepare for Christmas, 8th-10th December Get some new ideas for your Christmas festivities in a fun and friendly atmosphere. Refreshments and a two course lunch are included in the price, and B&B accommodation is also available.

l Until 6th January, Christmas at the Hall at Abbey Cwm Hir This venue takes Christmas decorations seriously! Visit the beautifully decorated Victorian rooms – all 52 of them – each with its own theme…

l 15th-16th November, Real Ale Wobble, Llanwrtyd Wells For hardened mountain bikers or fun riders who happen to like a drop of real ale, the now-infamous Wobble kicks off the 10-day Mid Wales Beer Festival. With routes to suit all through the lovely Cambrian mountains plus evening entertainment from local bands and of course lots of beers, ciders and perries. hanging

DID YOU KNOW?

The tradition of presents from the Christmas tree is thought to come from the Druids who believed the tree was the giver of all things

Vintage Christmas Paper Crafts, 8th December Create stunning decorations using vintage books and music sheets. Learn the art of paper folding to create wreaths, table centrepieces and decorations.

l 22nd November,

Real Ale Ramble Another event that’s part of the Mid Wales Beer Festival. Start from Llanwrtyd Wells Town Square and choose from three waymarked routes of 10, 15 or 25 miles, all with free real ales at the checkpoints.

l 15th-16th

Christmas Flower Arranging, 9th December Spend a day creating flower arrangements. At the end of the day you’ll take home your completed masterpieces! Christmas Cookery, 10th December Be inspired to try something different this Christmas with creative ideas from the hall’s head chef. Visit www.gregynog.org or call 01686 650224

Santa on the rails All aboard for some festive fun on Rheidol Railway’s Santa Train! Trains will be running from Aberystwyth to Capel Bangor and back again, and during the journey Santa and his elves will pass through the carriages meeting families, handing out presents and of course finding out what everybody would like for Christmas. What better way is there to start the festive season? Return travel, a present for each child and seasonal refreshments once the train returns to Aberystwyth are all included in the ticket price. Trains run on 13th-14th & 20th-23rd December. Visit www.rheidolrailway.co.uk or call 01970 625819.

November, Touch and Go: Dylan Thomas in Montgomery Gregynog Festival extends its 2014 season with Touch and Go, a weekend to celebrate the Dylan Thomas centenary and Montgomery’s links with the poet. Gregynog, the oldest classical music festival in Wales, was founded by Gwendoline and Margaret Davies in 1933 and the weekend also honours that heritage. A highlight is Caitlin, an exploration of the fiery relationship between Dylan Thomas and his wife performed by two of Wales’ most renowned dance and theatre makers Eddie Ladd and Gwyn Emberton to a new electronic sound score by Siôn Orgon.

l 3rd-20th December (various dates), Christmas Dinner at Broneirion Celebrate Christmas in style, relaxing in the beautiful surroundings of Broneirion, with roaring log fires and a warm atmosphere.

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WHAT’S ON MID WALES

A Royal Welsh winter

What’s on at Aberystwyth Arts Centre

The annual, unmissable Royal Welsh Winter Fair takes place at the Builth Wells showground on 1st Dracula, 11th and 2nd December with a huge variety of events November and stalls to entertain all the family, including the The Mark usual judging of livestock, poultry and horses, floral Bruce Dance art, produce and handicrafts. Company bring If you’re going along to observe and buy Bram Stoker’s rather than compete, there’s plenty to keep haunting, erotic you entertained – and well fed. The Food tale to life in an Hall will be offering the best of Welsh award-winning produce, on show and for sale, so magical dance you can give your tastebuds a theatre production, with treat and sample a mouthwatering range before an eclectic mix of music WIN WIN WIN filling up your shopping bags. from Bach and Mozart to We have two pairs of Meanwhile, the Christmas Shopping Pavilion Ligetti and Fred Frith. tickets to the fantastic is a must. For those looking for something out of the ordinary the numerous and varied shops Royal Welsh Winter Fair to give Buttercup, 12th and stalls will be offering a huge selection of November away – simply email your gifts, for family, friends and the home.There’ll Buttercup is a fat name and daytime phone cow from Lancashire. be less than 30 days left to Christmas, so it’s number to editorial@ She’s lovely. She can’t a great opportunity to explore and reduce the yattaryattar.co.uk, with the wait to tell you what length of your shopping list. subject ‘Royal Welsh’ happened when she was Visit www.rwas.co.uk or call 01982 553683.

made the star of her own TV show The Only Way is Lancashire. A hilarious and surreal show from Tom Wainwright.

What’s On at Powis Castle

Fright fest!

Truffle-making workshop, 26th November Are you struggling with what to buy your nearest and dearest this Christmas? Learn all the skills you need to make the perfect Christmas gift for friends and family in this half-day introduction to creating chocolate truffles.

Father Christmas in his Grotto, weekends 29th November-21st December Meet Father Christmas and receive an early gift.

Illuminated Gardens, 28th30th November & 5th-7th December For two weekends only, the Powis Castle gardens will be spectacularly illuminated. Stroll around the formal gardens, terraces and courtyard, seeing them as you’ve never seen them before. The Christmas shop and Courtyard shops will be open until 8pm.

Christmas Pudding Evening, 5th December A light main meal is followed by no less than six festive desserts. One for those with a sweet tooth!

Cheese-making workshop, 3rd December Learn how to make a variety of soft cheeses in this half-day, hands-on workshop.

Carols in the Ballroom, 13th December An annual concert with the Chester St Cecilia Singers. Visit www.nationaltrust.org. uk or call 01938 551929

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Wales’s International Horror Festival, Abertoir, which takes place in Aberystwyth (geddit?), is six days of films, talks, Q&As, music and theatre celebrating the films that make you want to hide behind the sofa. If you’re a lover of horror movies, from Vincent Price to Freddy Krueger, you’ll love this festival, which includes a special 3D screening of the House of Wax, a collection of silent horror shorts, plus an Edwardian-themed ride on the Vale of Rheidol Railway with a screening of the Peter Cushing/Christopher Lee classic Horror Express (below). As well as showing new bigbudget horror films, classics and independent films, along with a competition showcasing horror and fantasy shorts from around the world, the festival also features concerts, theatre, masterclasses and much more. Oh, and there’ll be an 80s themed disco, too – no doubt there’ll be some horrors there… Aberystwyth Arts Centre, 11th-16th November, visit www.abertoir.co.uk

Lady Windermere’s Fan, 20th-22nd November Oscar Wilde’s biting satire on the morals of Victorian Society. Lady Windermere’s marriage is in jeopardy when she suspects her husband of having an affair. Nothing is as it seems in this comic thriller, full of intrigue, jealousy and, of course, brilliant one-liners. Sinfonia Cymru & Llyr Williams, 22nd November Welsh pianist Llyr Williams joins Sinfonia Cymru, conducted by Gareth Jones, presenting Mendelssohn’s Piano Concerto No 1 and Mozart’s Piano Concerto No 24. Last Christmas, 4th December Returning home for Christmas, Tom is confronted with the ghosts of his past. Forced to face his demons, he attempts to rescue his family and his future. Aberystwyth Choral Society, 13th December Performing the exhilarating and colourful Hiawatha’s Wedding Feast – plus music from Vaughan Williams and solos from Wynne Evans. www.aberystwythartscentre. co.uk, or call 01970 623232.

WHAT’S ON MID WALES

What’s On in brief National Library of Wales events

Winter at Glansevern Hall Gardens The Potting Shed Café at Glansevern Hall has mouth-watering seasonal menus, with delicious and imaginative food, much of it sourced from Glansevern’s own walled garden, plus plenty of events and entertainment here and in the Chic Shed Shop. Steak supper and serenade, 21st November Enjoy a gorgeous, 28-day hung steak while being entertained with a collection of popular arias performed by a classical opera singer. Tables available from 6pm.

Until 20th December, Dylan Last chance to see this comprehensive and interactive exhibition celebrating the poet’s life and work. City Mission – Huw Edwards, 14th November An evening with the broadcaster Huw Edwards on his latest book about the history of Welsh chapels in London. Lens 2014 Photography Festival, 28th-29th November An essential event for anyone who is interested in photography.

Pizza, carols and mince pies, 5th December Llanfair Ladies Choir will be singing carols throughout the evening – you can join in if you wish – while you enjoy a variety of pizzas, salads, lots of desserts, plus mince pies. Or if you’re not hungry, head along for a drink and enjoy the carols.

‘O Gomer i’r We: Y Newyddion Cymreig Dros Ddwy Ganrif’ – Yr Athro Aled Gruffydd Jones, 3rd December A chance to discover how the Welsh press has presented images of Wales. In Welsh with translation.

Late night shopping at the Chic Shed Shop 20th-21st December, A winter wonderland of inspirational gift ideas for garden and home, including jewellery, original artworks, candles, handmade cushions, garden pots and accessories…

Dylan Thomas Symposium, 5th-6th December This two-day event begins with a showing of Under Milk Wood, followed by a Q&A with the director.

Christmas brunch and shopping, 23rd-24th December Take time out for yourself just before Christmas with a delicious festive brunch, and then pick up those last-minute gifts. Booking for brunch essential. Visit www.glansevern.co.uk or call 01686 640644.

Carol Service, 10th December Celebrate Christmas in the company of the congregation of Seion Chapel. Visit www.llgc.org.uk or call 01970 632900.

Last chance to catch Carmen

Mid Wales Opera’s UK tour of Carmen comes to a close this month, with a last opportunity to catch the production down at Theatr Brycheiniog in Brecon (unless you fancy heading to the far east and Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk for the penultimate performance).The show has been widely praised, especially mezzo-soprano Helen Sherman as Carmen - ‘sensuous and sassy… a magnetic presence’ said The Guardian, and ‘A blonde with killer legs, watchful eyes and a wonderfully elastic, expressive tone,’ said The Times. Director Jonathan Miller has set the action in the 1930s, before the Spanish civil war. 13th November, Theatr Brycheiniog, call 01874 611622 or visit www.midwalesopera.co.uk

l 6th-7th December, Bala Lake Railway Santa Trains Join the railway (pictured above) on their annual trip with Santa this December, complete with a present, biscuit and squash for children under 11, and a drink and mince pie for adults.

l 13th December, Geminids Meteor Shower Take a lounger or camping chair along to the Elan Valley where the dark skies make it a perfect spot to sit back and watch this amazing astronomical phenomenon (above). l 13th December,

Tywyn Wurlitzer Concert Andrew Umpleby is joined by the Tywyn Silver Band Q. What happened to for a brilliant concert the man who stole an featuring the advent calendar? incredible nine-rank organ which A. He got 25 days. has an array of Ho ho ho! real instruments all played pneumatically.

XMAS JOKE

Mid Wales History A memorial to the lost

There is a frieze at the base of Montgomery’s new war memorial in which the soldier to the far left is seen discarding something. A love letter, good news, or bad? Perhaps an unwelcome order? Or is he discarding his dear mother’s last letter he feels has no place where he’s going? The men are moving westwards: the First World War phrase for those who died in battle was ‘they’ve gone west’. The Welsh Marches county town of Montgomery lost 34 men in two world wars yet had no town memorial until 6th September this year, when the Bishop of St Asaph dedicated the Memorial and Garden of Remembrance. The memorial is a two tonne glacial boulder inset with the Roll of Honour listing names of the fallen. The site, originally gifted to Montgomery by the Earl of Powis, required complete refurbishment before the granite boulder could be crane-lifted into position. This was a community-led and funded operation that began four years ago with an idea and a sketch on the back of an envelope. Today the town has a ftting memorial to honour those affected by wars..

l 13th-14th December Corris Railway Santa Specials Hourly trains from Corris Station with Santa’s Grotto on the train. A present, cracker, drink and sweets for every child, plus mulled wine and mince pie for adults. l 20th-21st December, Father Christmas at Fairbourne Santa Specials run from Fairbourne Railway at 11.30am and 1.30pm – a great day out and a chance for the children to meet Santa. l 22nd December, Winter XC at Coed Trallwm Mountain bikers get ready to earn your Christmas dinner with this cross-country series of multiple laps over two hours. There’s a mix of forest road, single track and technical trails – ‘proper grass roots racing’.

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WHAT’S ON CHESHIRE 20/20s vision at Lyme Park

DID YOU KNOW?

According to the Church of England, more than 35 per cent of the UK population attend a Christmas service

Edmund Allingham (Rupert Evans) ties the knot with Harriet Kilmartin (Lucy Brown) in the chapel at Lyme Park – a scene from BBC drama The Village

Fans of the BBC period drama The Village will be thrilled to learn that Lyme Park, which doubled up as the ‘big house’ in the awardwinning show, is open for visitors to take a sneak peek behind the scenes. With the ‘Roaring Twenties’ as its theme, this fascinating exhibition aims to illustrate some of the major changes that were taking place in 1920s’ society. It will also tell the real story of Lyme Park during this exciting period, through archive photographs, exclusive cine films and thought-provoking displays. You can even learn to dance the Charleston! Caroline Heap, Lyme’s Visitor experience manager, said: ‘We’ll have costumes – including the stunning wedding dress worn by the character Harriet Kilmartin (pictured left) – and there will also be props from the series and footage showing how the production was put together.’ Take a Trip to the Roaring Twenties, weekends run until 15th February 2015. To find out more, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Bank on a Merry Christmas!

If you’re planning a day out in Cheshire then why not visit Quarry Bank – one of the north-west’s best historic properties – which features a working cotton mill with galleries devoted to water and steam power of the late l8th century. December heralds even more reasons to make the journey, as this fascinating National Trust property gears up for Christmas, Victorian style. Join the festive fun at their traditional Christmas weekends, 6th-7th and 13th-14th December, where you can meet a host of Victorian characters and discover how the festivities were celebrated by mill workers in the past. Younger visitors will be delighted to see that Father Christmas has stopped by to update his presents list and to ensure that everyone enjoys the carols, stories, shopping and, of course, the delicious mince pies on offer over the weekends. And the fun continues after Christmas, too, with It’s a Date! from 29th-31st December, when you can make and decorate your own calendar for the year ahead. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk or call 01625 527468.

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Wreathed in smiles

No house is truly ready for Christmas until a welcoming wreath is hanging on the door. At Cholmondeley Castle this year, you can learn how to create this quintessential decoration for a fraction of the cost of a shop bought one, and have fun making it! Join the creative nursery team in a hands-on workshop and discover the traditions behind the holly wreath and their historical uses; learn the different methods, tools and equipment needed for this ancient craft and, best of all, make your very own wreath to take home to decorate your door with pride. Held on 6th December, booking is essential. Visit www.cholmondeleycastle.com or call 01829 720383.

Light fantastic at Chester Zoo For a Christmas treat with a difference, why not visit Chester Zoo and see it, literally, in a different light? This year the zoo’s popular Magical Lantern Experience is bigger and better than ever, with a range of hands-on activities suitable for the whole family. Start the evening by designing your very own lantern and then join the staff and, of course, the animals on an unforgettable nocturnal adventure along the atmospheric trail. Afterwards, make your Christmas wish and hang it on the giant Wishing Tree before you meet, and get a photo, with the man of the moment, Santa Claus himself. Then, as if that’s not enough, you can visit Fruit Bat Forest and the elephant house before enjoying a tasty supper and warming drink. 4th-7th, 11th-14th, & 18th23rd December. Visit www. chesterzoo.org or call on 01244 650209.

What’s On in brief

l Until 19th December, For Those in Peril: HMS Chester, St Michael’s Church This exhibition commemorates 16-year-old sailor, and recipient of the Victoria Cross, John Cornwall, showing his courage throughout the Battle of Jutland, and the ship and crew of which he was so proud to be a part. l 12th November, Nicholas Daniel & Julius Drake A Chester Music Society concert featuring the world renowned oboeist and past winner of BBC Young Musician of the Year, Nicholas Daniel, playing works by Bach, Britten, Musgrave, Schumann and Elgar, accompanied on the piano by Julius Drake. l 15th November, Winsford Beer Festival It’s not just about ales at this event, which takes place at the Lifestyle Centre – as well as beer and cider, there’ll be plenty of music and stand-up comedy too. l 25th-26th November, Mind, Body & Spirit Event, Nantwich Explore more than 40 stands including complementary therapists, body talk, unique crystals, gemstone jewellery, books, tarot cards, Buddha products, flutes, drums, clothing, health products and so much more!

Get a bird’s eye view at Dunham Massey As much as we love Christmas, it’s no secret that the build-up to the most magical time of the year can mean frayed nerves and stress. But fear not – scientists have discovered that walking activates soothing neurons in the brain, so a relaxing prefestive amble at the breathtakingly gorgeous Dunham Massey park The market town of Sandbach is home to two could be just what the imposing Saxon stone crosses which stand proudly doctor ordered. – if somewhat battered – in the cobbled market Join the park square. They are elaborately carved with Get in touch! guides on the animals and Biblical scenes including morning of Let us know about your the Nativity and the Crucifixion, and December upcoming events and historians also believe they were once 6th for a free adorned with jewels and metal ornaments. we’ll aim to feature guided walk, The origins of these Grade 1 listed them here! Our next far from the monuments are lost in the mists of time, issue is January/February. madding but the larger cross is believed to have crowds, and Email us at editorial@ been made during the early 9th century learn about the while the smaller one may have been yattaryattar.co.uk fascinating birds created a little later. Certainly they both began life elsewhere and were probably moved that make Dunham to the market place in the 16th century. They their home. Just collect were broken up by Puritan iconoclasts in the 17th a token from the visitor century, only to be reassembled in 1816. centre on the day (spaces are Today they are considered the finest surviving limited) and meet at the clock tower example of Anglo-Saxon high crosses in Britain, at 11am for a gentle stroll which is and Sandbach is a popular destination for people due to last approximately two hours. anxious to glimpse an unusual piece of history in Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk or the middle of a bustling modern world. call 0161 941 1025.

Cheshire History The Sandbach Crosses

l 27th November, Christmas Lantern Parade At 7pm, local schoolchildren will parade through Chester with handmade lanterns to add a touch of sparkle to the city centre and what promises to be a charming precursor to Christmas. l 28th November, Spirit of Christmas A magical evening at Chester Cathedral, starting the festive season with a sparkle. An annual concert of festive readings, music and celebrity guests in aid of The Neuromuscular Centre.

l 29th November, Guitar Concert, Ellesmere Port The Chester Guitar Orchestra present a concert of Christmas and classical music – served with coffee and cakes! – held at Trinity Church.

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WHAT’S ON CHESHIRE

What’s On in brief

What’s on at Port Sunlight

l 4th December, Steve Cradock and band Cradock formed Britpop legends Ocean Colour Scene more than 20 years ago and has a reputation for being one of the hardest working musicians in the industry. He brings his new band to The Crown Hotel at Nantwich.

Port of Call, 27th November Little is known about freemasonry – the world’s oldest secular fraternal society – but Leverhulme historian Gavin Hunter aims to change that with a fascinating lecture that will both inform and entertain. This lavishly illustrated event will tell the story of Port Sunlight creator and lodge founder William Hesketh Lever and his personal involvement in the movement. Booking essential.

l 6th-11th December, Arley Christmas Floral Extravaganza Witness the scent and spectacle of thousands of fresh flowers in breathtaking floral decorations around the historic Hall. Plus, the Schools Christmas Tree Decorating Challenge will be on display in the Cruck Barn all week and the Tudor Barn Restaurant will be offering traditional Christmas treats including mince pies and mulled wine. l 7th December, Yule Yomp Start your offensive on Christmas overindulgence with a 10K run through the lovely setting of Tatton Park. There’s also a 3K fun run for youngsters and all money raised goes to local charities.

Christmas in Sunlight, 30th November There’s a palpable fizz of excitement in the air as Port Sunlight gears up for Christmas with a day of crafty activities guaranteed to get your festive juices flowing. Gather the family and join in with the celebrations by learning some new skills before heading off to peruse the well-stocked gift shop and garden centre for Christmas pressie ideas. After such an activity-packed day, you’ll deserve a special treat – a delicious afternoon tea at the Port Sunlight Museum’s festive tea room will be just the ticket! Visit www.portsunlightvillage.com or call 0151 644 6466.

What’s On at Crewe Lyceum Beyond the Barricade, 16th November Recreating original West End/Broadway musical hit songs with amazing authenticity, this exciting show features a cast of past principal performers from the West End production of Les Miserables, and the 25th Anniversary Concert at the O2 Arena. Including songs from Miss Saigon, The Lion King, Phantom of the Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, Chess, and many more hit musical productions.

l 7th December, Sandbach Voices Christmas Concert Excerpts from Handel’s Messiah are performed in the beautiful surroundings of St Mary’s Church, plus Christmas carols by candlelight. Refreshments including mince pies and mulled wine will be served.

Stones in his Pockets, 17th November Following a sell-out run on Broadway, four and a half years in the West End and on tour, this worldwide sensation is now in Crewe. It tells the hilarious and moving tale of a quiet Irish community turned upside down by the arrival of a Hollywood movie shoot, with all 15 characters played by two talented actors – from two cheeky lads intent on stardom to a Hollywood goddess!

l 11th December Winter Watch Parade Join Chester’s Lord of Misrule as the loudest and most colourful parade of Christmas hits the streets, led by Karamba Samba and including chefs, cooks, angels, devils and firebreathers. As well as the parade itself there’s a special performance outside Browns.

Photo: Donald Judge

Foster and Allen, 19th November Mick and Tony present their unique blend of gentle humour and traditional music with a selection of much-loved hits including Bunch of Thyme, Maggie, After All These Years, I Will Love You All My Life and many, more.

l 18th December, Town Carol Service & Tree of Lights Ceremony Winsford’s annual Christmas concert will feature a blend of traditional carols and festive music. Preceding this, visitors will be invited to take part in the Tree of Lights ceremony and place stars dedicated to loved ones on a Christmas tree.

An Evening with Noel Fielding, 4th December Noel Fielding (The Mighty Boosh, Never Mind the Buzzcocks, Luxury Comedy) has a unique brand of stand-up comedy, live animation, music and mayhem that will have you rolling in the aisles. There will also be support from Mike Fielding (The Mighty Boosh/Smooth) and Tom Meeton (The Mighty Boosh/Oram & Meeton). You would be a fool to miss out, come along and bring your nan! Viennese Strauss Gala, 6th December A programme of Viennese delights including Strauss favourites, plus music from Kalman, Lehar, Romberg, Stolz, Ziehrer and more. A chance to get in the spirit for the festive season and sing along to some traditional carols. Who Killed Santa? 14th December Ho ho h-oh no! Someone’s got their ‘Claus’ out for jolly old Saint Nick, but who can it be? Take a ‘slay’ ride to Christmas Town and try to work out who’s been ignoring ‘elf’ and safety rules by working out the clues while you enjoy a three-course Christmas meal and festive frolics in the intimate Lyceum Circle Suite. Visit www.crewelyceum.co.uk or call 01270 368242.

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Dashing, Santa!

What could be more festive than dressing up as Father Christmas and doing a run through a town centre in front of all the Christmas shoppers – all in aid of charity or course? (If nothing else it’ll help you work off all those mince pies…!) On 14th December the town of Nantwich continues the Christmas tradition of putting children first by inviting you to get dressed up and bring friends and family along to run 2K through the town. Fancy dress is optional, but there is a prize for the best dressed – and come on, you have to enter into the spirit of things! – plus there’ll be mince pies, chocolate and medals for the finishers. Entry is £5 and although no minimum sponsorship is required, obviously Hope House will be very grateful for anything that you do raise. And if you don’t fancy dashing yourself, go along to cheer the Satnas on their way and to donate. Visit www.hopehouse.org. uk or call 01691 671671 for more information.

DISCOVER a unique institution

searching for presents VICTORIAN WEEKENDS Speke Hall and Quarry Bank

LIBRARY WRITERS IN RESIDENCE COURSES & EVENTS ACCOMMODATION RESTAURANT CHAPEL MEETING PLACE

29–30 Nov (Speke only), 6–7 and 13–14 Dec, from 11 am

Enjoy a traditional family Christmas, listen to carols, tell Father Christmas what's on your list, buy some gifts, then round off your day with a warming mince pie. Normal admission applies, charge to visit Father Christmas.

| www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nwchristmas Share your Christmas traditions with us

www.gladstoneslibrary.org Tel: 01244 532350

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Christmas pattern inspired by wallpaper at Wimpole Estate, Cambridgeshire.

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WHAT’S ON CHESHIRE

Christmas at Tatton Park Christmas Gift Fair, 15th-16th November If you’re looking for an unusual gift for a friend or loved one then do not miss this gift fair! Nutcracker Christmas Mansion, 25th November-21st December This year, Tatton Park’s mansion is themed The Nutcracker. In addition to the decorations and displays, visitors will be entertained with a changing live music programme including a harpist, string quartet, harpsichordist and choirs. Christmas Lantern Parade, 28th November Light the way for Father Christmas with your own lantern as he makes his way to the festive stableyard. Meet Prancer and Dancer and post your Christmas wish list. Please take along any unwanted toys to donate to Manchester Children’s Hospital. Father Christmas at the Farm, weekends 29th November-21st December Bring the youngsters to meet Santa and his rare breed farmyard friends, some of whom are the star attractions in the nativity scene. All children receive a gift from Mr Claus.

Christmas Wreath Making, 29th Nov & 6th December If you’re looking for something to do that will simultaneously banish your winter blues and tap into your inner creative genius. A Victorian Country House Christmas, 2nd December Join historian Gwyneth Mitchell for a fascinating exploration of how this time of year was celebrated on Victorian country estates, and take a nostalgic trip around Tatton’s Christmas-themed mansion. Deer Feed and Trailer Ride, 17th December Take a trailer ride with Tatton’s expert rangers, and see these lovely animals up close. Minimum age of four years applies. Family Stableyard Carols, 21st December Join the King Edward Musical Society Band and choir for some festive singing. Shops and tea room will also be open for any last minute presents and refreshments. Visit www.tattonpark.org.uk or call 01625 374400 for more information.

DID YOU KNOW?

Jingle Bells was the first song broadcast from space, when Gemini 6 astronauts Tom Stafford and Wally Schirra sang it on 16th December, 1965

Christmas on the canal

During December, take a cruise with Santa at the National Waterways Museum. The whole family can take a 30-minute cruise on the museum’s own canal boat, joined by Santa, who will chat to the children while adults enjoy a fascinating commentary. Then, when you arrive back at the museum, you’ll head to Santa’s Grotto, where a Christmas story will be told, and every child will receive a gift, while the adults will enjoy a warming mulled wine and mince pie. Various dates during December, visit www. canalrivertrust.org.uk or call 0151 355 5017.

Beat It!

Whether you’re nostalgic for the sensational ’60s or missed them altogether, Tip Top Productions at the Forum Studio Theatre in Chester will have you grooving in the aisles with Beat Mania. Starring the impressive vocal talents of Beatles tribute band The Fabs, featuring Steve Quillon, and spanning the country’s most famous musical decade, this vibrant trip down memory lane will transport you to the world-famous Cavern Club to a time of the Fab Four, psychedelic prints and flower power. ‘Come Together’ and join in the fun! 15th November. Visit www. tiptopproductions. co.uk or call 01244 341296.

Walk in a winter wonderland

Deck the halls!

Wrap the family up warm and take them to a magical fantasyland filled with fun and excitement this Christmas – Winter Wonderland at Chester Racecourse. You’ll have the opportunity to head into an enchanted forest to meet Santa and his reindeer, take a spin on a real outdoor ice-rink and pick up some unusual Christmas gifts. Attractions include Santa’s letter writing workshop, stories from Mrs Claus, a festive 3D movie room plus fairground rides and amusements. Winter Wonderland, Chester Racecourse, 13th November-24th December.

This Christmas the National Trust is pulling out all the stops to make it a noël to remember. From as early as November, the Trust’s historic properties throw open their gates to reveal festively decorated interiors and a host of activities, stories and traditions guaranteed to appeal to history buffs of all ages. Little Moreton Hall, a half-timbered Tudor manor house in Congleton, is no exception, and its much-anticipated yuletide celebrations never fail to impress. This year you can enjoy a taste of an authentic Tudor Christmas with decorations, music and storytelling for all ages. Marvel at the great hall decorated with seasonal greenery, the huge oak table groaning beneath a Christmas feast and look out for some seasonal surprises too. Liverpool’s Speke Hall is the place to be for a snapshot of a traditional Victorian Christmas. This intriguing manor, set in a wooded estate on the banks of the Mersey, is celebrating with a programme of festive events highlighting its rich heritage and turbulent history – and you are invited. Gather your friends and family and explore the ground floor of the house, decorated in traditional period style, and enjoy a carol concert in the great hall with the promise of festive refreshments to follow… For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk

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WHAT’S ON SHROPSHIRE

©NTPL/Richard Bifield

Christmas at Attingham Park Frost Fair, 28th-30th November Soak up the atmosphere while you find unusual Christmas gifts from over 100 stalls in the historic grounds of this Regency mansion. With a range of gifts from local traders there’s plenty of inspiration, plus lots of food and drink to treat yourself to along the way. Father Christmas at Attingham, 6th-23rd December Step through the magic wardrobe and meet Father Christmas and his elves and receive a special gift. Attingham Christmas, 6th-7th and the 13th-23rd December Discover how the mansion would have been decorated for Christmas in a bygone age. Christmas Holiday Trail, 20th December4th January Pick up a free trail and explore the grounds on a winter’s walk this Christmas holiday. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk or call 01743 708123

Attention chocolate lovers! The first Shrewsbury Chocolate Festival is about to happen! Head to St Mary’s church in the town centre from 14th-16th November and you’ll have the chance to discover an array of tempting treats, from locally produced chocolate to goodies from all over the country and around the world. Organiser Julia Wenlock says: ‘Over the last decade the chocolate industry has changed hugely. Our festival aims to showcase some of the best in Shropshire, and we will be joined by chocolatiers and companies from further afield.’ It will be a great opportunity to pick up gifts for Christmas for the chocolate lover in your life (that includes you…). Watch local chocolatiers, chefs and experts demonstrating delicious chocolate recipes and talking about the history of chocolate. The festival is open daily from 10am till 5pm and entry is free. For more information visit www.shrewsburychocolatefestival.co.uk.

Shropshire History: The Tar Tunnel

Among the oldest attractions in Shropshire, Ironbridge Gorge’s Tar Tunnel is a remarkable feat of engineering with a fascinating history. The story begins in 1786 when a local ironmaster, William Reynolds, decided to build a brick-lined tunnel in order to provide access between the Blists Hill mines and the River Severn. When his workers struck a spring of natural bitumen, Reynolds, an astute businessman, recognised its scientific and commercial potential, and wasted no time in exploiting the discovery. The substance was collected, boiled in large cauldrons and then converted into pitch to be used in industry. Some was made into ‘Betton’s British Oil’, a medicinal preparation for the treatment of rheumatic and skin complaints. Not surprisingly, this enterprise proved to be very lucrative at first. The tunnel yielded around 4,500 gallons of bitumen a week, however this number fell to only 10 barrels a year by the 1820s and in the 1840s it dried up altogether. A house was built over the entrance and it is through here that visitors may enter the tunnel to see one of the great geological curiosities of the eighteenth century – and yes, the bitumen still oozes from the tunnel walls today!

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Arts Alive My Dearest Girls: The Letters Book The second half of Francesca Millican Slater’s exploration of the everyday lives of country women, based on real letters sent by six Shropshire women from 19171920. Francesca combines character, live music and warm and witty storytelling to bring the realities of life during the First World War. Opens at Habberley Village Hall, 7th November The Pearl An impoverished diver finds the pearl of the world and thinks his life will be changed forever – but he is blind to the stone’s destructive power. This fable, adapted from John Steinbeck’s novella, questions what we value most, exploring the human condition with wit and charm. All Stretton Village Hall, 8th November ©NTPL/Richard Bifield

What’s On in brief

Shropshire, using Dickens’s own words (mostly) to create a cast of thousands and take the audience on an epic journey, beginning with Pip’s fateful encounter with an escaped convict on Christmas Eve, 1803… Longden Village Hall, 14th November Under Her Skin Just two performers and a double bass are used to set an ancient folktale about selkies, or seal people, in the here and now. Taking the audience from a quiet cove on the north coast to central London at rush hour, and using performance storytelling, dance and music, this show is masterfully crafted yet has no set script, making it an exciting, constantly evolving piece and each night a totally unique experience. Hermon Chapel, Oswestry, 22nd November

Great Expectations Rabbit Theatre’s David Mynne brings his deft, daft and delightful one-man adaptation of the classic novel to

What’s On at Theatre Severn Oliver, 6th-9th November Go back in time to Victorian London where young orphan Oliver meets the cheeky Artful Dodger and the gang. The classic Dickens tale is brought to life with original choreography, a live orchestra and a talented local cast. Jason Cook: Broken, 8th November The comedian, writer and creator of BBC2’s Hebbern and Radio 4’s Jason Cook’s School of Hard Knocks, takes to the stage to tell all – in his usual self-deprecating, Geordie way. The Best Christmas Present in the World, 16th November Based on Morpurgo’s moving, heartwarming and historic storyline echoing the story of one soldier’s life during the Christmas truce of 1914. Viva la Drag!, 20th November The rags to queens drag tale of an all-male/female close harmony group – the Supreme Fabulettes. This West-end hit show, directed by Kylie Minogue’s creative director, has a Gleestyle mash-up of a song list, plus songs by Boy George, to get you singing your heart out. The

Events at Dorothy Clive Garden

Christmas Tree O Christmas Tree, 29th-30th November A special fundraising event including a Christmas Fair, a Christmas Tree first pantomime decoration contest, play, called Harlequin Santa Claus and a Christmas Tree Trail. Sorcerer, took place All in celebration of at Lincoln’s Inn Fields National Tree Week.

DID YOU KNOW?

The Perfect Season, 22nd November This comedy production from Shrewsbury-based theatre company Vested Interest introduces us to a range of characters who – horribly and hilariously – keep the festive spirit alive in their own unique ways…

Theatre in 1714

Pete Firman: Trickster, 23rd November Star of BBC1’s The Magicians, and special guest on countless other TV shows, including The Sarah Millican Television Programme, Celebrity Mastermind and Comedy Mash-Up, Pete Firman brings his tradmark blend of crowd-pleasing comedy and magic to Shropshire. For Christmas Pantos, turn to page 36. www.theatresevern.co.uk or call 01743 281281

Christmas Lunch, 14th December Enjoy a lovely festive meal followed by a guided seasonal walk around the garden. Visit online at www. dorothyclivegarden. co.uk or call 01630 647237

l 13th November, Riverside Walk at Severn Valley Country Park A walk along the river to Trimpley Reservoir and on through Eymore Wood, returning along the top of the valley with views of the Shropshire countryside. Call 01746 781192 to book your place. Well behaved dogs are welcome to come along too! l 15th November, A First World War Day School A series of talks, workshops and readings on World War One literature, poetry and song for young people and adults, as part of the Shrewsbury Bookfest ‘Remember 1914’ programme. With Helen McPhail, Ted Maidment, Richard Field and Andrew Bannerman. At Shrewsbury Sixth Form College. l 15th-16th November, Antiques & Collectors Fair This popular event from Amulet Fairs is taking place at Oswestry Showground once again. There’ll be an enormous variety of fantastic collectibles on offer… l 22nd November, Christmas Spice Workshop, Brynmawr Farm Spice up your winter with a crash course in the magic of herbs at Christmas time. Situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty, this is the perfect place for creating gifts for your family or friends and decorations for your own homemade Christmas. Call 01588 630367. l 22nd November, Festive Frost Fair Festive fun at Mayfair Community Centre in Church Stretton, with local designermakers, food producers, and more. A great opportunity to buy unique Christmas gifts. l 22nd November, Basketweaving workshop at Fordhall Organic Farm Learn the traditional art of basket weaving and take home your very own hand-woven basket. Materials provided. l 29th November-24th December, The Shopshire Santa Experience at Park Hall Farm A magical experience for young visitors, with Santa in his enchanting grotto waiting to greet each one with a gift.

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WHAT’S ON SHROPSHIRE

Looking fair for Christmas Give your Christmas shopping a kick start or maybe get it all done in one day at Dudmaston Estate’s Christmas Fair on 15th and 16th November. There will be a host of different stall holders, offering everything from jewellery and crafts to festive food and drink – meaning you’re sure to find all you need to suit even the most difficult person on your list. It’s not just about shopping though – with some great Christmas entertainment, food and drink in the tea room, and lots of activities to keep the children happy this is a day to definitely get you in the mood for the big day to come. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk or call 01746 780866.

What’s On in brief

l 29th November, Ellesmere Winter Festival Kicking off at 6 o’clock in the town centre, there’ll be carol singers, Santa parading and the Tree of Lights switch on. Also late-night shopping, stalls in the market hall, donkey rides, hot food and lots more. l 30th November, Eaton Manor Christmas Fayre A great day out for all the family, with lots of stalls for Christmas shopping, light lunches, wreathmaking workshops and a raffle.

Christmas events at Severn Valley Railway Santa Steam Specials, weekends from 6th December Take an exciting return steam train ride from Kidderminster through the scenic Severn Valley to meet Santa in his grotto at Arley Station. As well as meeting the big man himself, each fare-paying child will receive their own present. Christmas Carol Trains, from December 6 For those feeling in fine voice this festive season, these evening trains are a great way to let off steam. Journey from Kidderminster to Highley, then join in a rousing evening of carol singing, led by The New Dimensional Experience Choir and topped off with a mince pie and a glass of punch.

l 6th December Oswestry Parade A great annual event to raise money for local charities. A huge array of floats and entertainments will be parading through the town from 11am (pictured below).

Christmas at the Ironworks

There’s a special treat in store at the British Ironwork Centre in Oswestry for boys and girls who’ve been good this year – a special Santa’s Grotto is being created. The centre is sending out free tickets to local schools and parents – only to be given to children who are particularly deserving, mind you! As well as meeting Santa DID YOU KNOW? himself, each child will receive a free gift, candy canes and Tinsel was once made Santa Herald services, hot chocolate, and will get of real silver, it was 19th, 22nd & 23rd a photo taken with Father December invented in Germany Christmas. They’ll also be able Father Christmas will to take along a letter to Father in 1610. You can’t buy be welcoming families Christmas and post it in his that at Sainsbury’s on to the train, and will special mailbox. There’s plenty visit everyone on board, these days… going on at the Ironwork Centre handing out presents and for adults this December too, with posing for festive ‘selfies’ during Sunday shopping from 10am-3pm the journey to Highley, so don’t and late night opening on Thursdays till forget your camera. 8.30pm – with mince pies and mulled wine! Santa will be at his Grotto from 10am-3pm For more information visit www.svr .co.uk or on 6th, 13th and 20th December. To request call 01562 757900. free tickets call 01691 610952 or visit online at www.britishironworkcentre.co.uk

l 6th December Festive Fun Day at Ludlow Food Centre. See Santa Claus arrive on his sleigh, pulled by reindeer at 11am and will be there till 3pm. l 7th December, Weekend Work Party Join the rangers at the Severn Valley Country Park for a practical day of conservation work. No prior experience is necessary to take part. l 9th December, All About Christmas, at Greenfields Church Hall An expert in British archaeology and history, Dorothy Nicolle often shares her expertise and interests within the Shropshire area. This Blue Badge awarded historian is sure to provide a fascinating insight into Christmas day in Shropshire. l 12th December, 7.30-9.30pm Festive Fundraising Concert Held at the Orthopaedic Hospital in Oswestry, the concert will feature festive music, carols and readings, held to raise funds for The Bone Cancer Centre Appeal.

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WHAT’S ON SHROPSHIRE

Look a-Live at Oswestry! Much more than just a Christmas Fair, the annual Oswestry Christmas Live event, which this year takes place on 5th December, is set to be bigger and better than ever. With live music, enormous fairground rides throughout the town centre and the first of regular late-night shopping evenings for Christmas, the event has become one of the largest Christmas celebrations in Shropshire. There’ll be carols on the Bailey Head, with the award-winning Porthywaen Silver Band supported by local choirs and musical groups, street entertainers will be strolling around the town and performing throughout the evening, and there’ll be a Christmas Food and Craft Nuremburg in Germany Market in Bailey is home to one of the Street and at the world’s largest Christmas Bailey Head. Plus, markets, drawing around you’ll be able to have a go at 2.3 million visitors from iceskating on the abroad and at home synthetic rink on Festival Square; take the children to Santa’s Grotto in aid of Hope House Charity in the Indoor Market; and, to round off the celebrations, see a massive fireworks display at Cae Glas. Now that’s how to get into the Christmas spirit!

DID YOU KNOW?

Events at Cosford RAF Museum Remembrance Service, 9th November The museum will be paying respect to the servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice during their tours of duty and invites the public to join them for the service. There will be a two-minute silence with the sounding of The Last Post. Conservation Centre Open Week, 9th-15th November, The museum’s award winning conservation centre opens its doors to give visitors exclusive behind-the-scenes access for one week only. You’ll be able to see progress being made on exhibits in various stages of restoration and you’ll also have the rare opportunity to speak to some of the skilled technicians and apprentices about their work.

What’s On at Ironbridge Gorge Museums Christmas Present Making Workshops, Coalport China Museum, 15th November Create individual festive ceramic gifts. You can paint a readymade item or make your own gift from clay. Admission charges apply. Gorgeous – 10th Anniversary Contemporary Craft Fair, Enginuity, 22nd-23rd November Hosted in partnership with the Shropshire Guild of Contemporary Craft, Gorgeous brings together some of the finest designer-makers and food and drink producers in the area, presenting a wealth of Christmas present ideas… Victorian Christmas Weekend, Blists Hill, 6th-7th & 13th14th December Join the residents as they prepare for Christmas – talk to costumed townsfolk about a bygone Christmas in their shops, and cottages. Listen to brass bands and carol singers, see a mini pantomime and a Punch & Judy show, take a horse and carriage ride and meet Father Christmas. Christmas Gift-making Workshop, Jackfield Tile Museum, 13th-14th December Decorate your own festive tile for someone special this year. For more information visit online at www.ironbridge.org.uk or call 01952 433424

Go on a Santa safari! Head to Hawkstone Park this Christmas for a magical trip through the woodland to see Santa in his real hillside grotto. After arriving at the hotel, you’ll be treated to a warming festive drink before being whisked off for a Land Rover safari across the park, under the Wishing Arch and up the hill to Santa’s network of caves. When you arrive, Santa’s elves will keep you entertained as you explore the fairy-lit caverns and tunnels until you finally reach your destination – the magical grotto! Every child will receive a gift from Santa and you’ll have the chance to meet Santa’s reindeer and explore the illuminated woodland fantasy. 5th-7th, 12-14th, 16th-23rd December. Visit the website www.hawkstoneparkfollies.co.uk or call 01948 841777.

32 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

WHAT’S ON SHROPSHIRE

What’s On at The Place, Telford Fascinating Aïda, 10th November Following a sold-out 2013 tour, three Olivier Award nominations and more than 10 million YouTube hits for Cheap Flights (their infamous anthem to budget air travel), Dillie Keane, Adele Anderson and Liza Pulman celebrate more than 30 years of Fascinating Aïda with their new show Charm Offensive. Expect topical new songs plus some outrageous old favourites. Big Country, 13th November Rock out this autumn like it’s 1983…Scottish rock band Big Country bring their 30th anniversary tour to Shropshire, performing songs from the multimillion-selling album Steeltown. The Tribute Show Night, 20th November Enjoy the next best thing to Robbie Williams and Gary Barlow in this two-man tribute to the legendary Take That singers. Milkshake Party Live, 23rd November A brand new musical show, designed to get the kids dancing and singing. Favourite Milkshake presenters will take young audiences on a fun adventure, with new songs, classic favourites and funky dance routines – plus there’ll be plenty of audience interaction and lots of fun for all the family. Holly at Christmas, 25th November Starring a host of actor-musicians, Britain’s most popular Buddy Holly act comes to Telford for a show stopping performance. The Russian Spectacular, 27th November A programme of music from across the world featuring one of the world’s finest bands, joined by traditional folk dancers and guest soloists. The White Russian Central Band perform with guests from The Bolshoi and dancers from The Belarussian National Folk Dance Academy.

What’s On at Weston Park

Theatre on the Steps

Dea Paradisos exhibition, until 26th November An exciting exhibition of mixed media pieces based on the ruins and history of derelict buildings.

Seeing is believing this winter, with a host of uncannily authentic tribute bands giving you the chance to see disbanded, dead and far-tooexpensive-to-pay-for-thereal-thing supergroups and superstars…

Guy Days’ Hints and Tips, 18th-20th November Wondering where to start with Christmas food for the inlaws? Bored of the usual turkey and sprouts? No need to panic, Weston Park’s head chef Guy Day presents inspiring workshops to ensure that your Christmas is the tastiest of 2014. Philip Huckin Exhibition, 1st-30th December A selection of Philip’s highly detailed landscape drawings and paintings, many of which are based on the Welsh countryside. Festive Afternoon tea, 17th December Start the Christmas season with a little luxurious treat, in the form of afternoon tea on a decidedly festive theme. Carols and Sunday Lunch, 21st December A day of traditional carol singing at St Andrews Parish Church (in the grounds of Weston Park), followed by Sunday lunch.

Santa Specials with Cambrian Heritage Railways

What’s on around Whitchurch

Animals in War Remembrance Service, 16th November Animal lovers are invited to bring their horses, ponies, dogs and pigeons for this tribute to the brave animals who served during war and peacetime. 11.30am at Dearnford Lake. Whitchurch Christmas Lights Switch On and Outdoor Christmas Market, 29th November A great event for all the famiily, including live music, a visit from Father Christmas and a Lantern Parade. 10am-6pm

Gordon Hendricks – The Ultimate Elvis Tribute, 5th December Stars in their Eyes winner and star of The World’s Greatest Elvis, Gordon Hendricks is described as having ‘all the power, authenticity and charisma of Elvis’. With a full band and backing singers, you may have to remind yourself that it is not the King himself performing on the stage.

Why not buy a loved one a subscription to Yattar Yattar, delivered direct to their door, for Christmas? Turn to page 150 for our great subscription offer!

Take the family out for an extra special train journey to visit Santa in his Ice Grotto. There’s a chance for those boys and girls who are on Santa’s good list this year to receive a special present, and there’ll be plenty of mulled wine and festive food for the parents too. You can travel from Oswestry or Llynclys. Oswestry: 6th, 13th, 20th December; Llynclys: 7th, 14th, 21st December. Visit online at www. cambrianrailways.com

Michael Bublé Tribute Night, 8th November Charming, sophisticated and cool – in fact, as good as the real thing! 8pm. Tickets available from Community Hub, £8.

Strictly Abba, 28th November Renowned as one of the most authentic and accurate tributes to the Swedish supergroup, Strictly Abba return by popular demand to Shropshire, after their sell-out show in June.

Civic Centre Charity Concert with the Fauls Singers, 29th November A Christmas themed evening of musical entertainment. Tickets £6 include refreshments, available from the Community Hub.

Christmas Farmers’ Market, 6th December From 8am til 2pm with carol singers and festive music. Indoor Christmas Market, 13th December Get all your last-minute shopping done and maybe treat yourself to a few presents too! 9am-2pm, Civic Centre.

Bee Gees Fever, 12th-13th December This live tribute band will get you dancing to the Bee

Gees’ disco classics and singing along to the soulful ballads. The five band members perform all their songs themselves, live, and their uncanny resemblance to the original Bee Gees will transport you back to the late 1970s. So pull on the polyester and platforms for a night full of fabulous flare! The Stones, 19th December This faithful and accurate tribute band have all the energy and charisma of the Stones themselves. Performing hits such as Satisfaction, Start Me Up and Jumpin’ Jack Flash. They’re almost as good as the real thing (and a lot cheaper to see!). Visit online at www.theatre onthesteps.co.uk or call 01746 766477

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 35

it’s behind It’s that time of year again – oh, yes it is! – so here’s Yattar Yattar’s pick of the pantos coming to a theatre near you this Christmas Snow White, Stiwt Theatre, Wrexham

The story of beautiful Snow White’s escape from her evil stepmother the Queen, and her life with the seven dwarfs. Welsh opera singer Wynne Evans – better known as Go Compare’s Gio Compario – plays the evil Queen’s brutally honest (and very comic) reflection. There’s song and dance as well as poisoned apples and magical mirrors, plus plenty of panto enchantment. 10th December-30th December. Visit www.stiwt.com or call 01978 844053

Snow White, Rhyl Pavilion

There are more than seven little reasons why the story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is one of the most popular of all time. Legendary Welsh actress and singer Ruth Madoc stars as the Wicked Queen, with Milkshake presenter Jen Pringle as Snow White. Popular Denbighborn actor Sean Jones plays Muddles, and of course, no panto would be complete without a Dame – this year she’s played by Jamie Steen. The show is bursting with great songs, dance routines and plenty of laughter: it’s a tremendous treat for all the family. 12th December-10th January 2015. Visit www.rhylpavilion. co.uk or call 01745 330000.

Cinderella, Venue Cymru, Llandudno

Llandudno’s panto stalwart and funnyman John Evans is joined by not-so-little-anymore

36 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

Jimmy Osmond for this year’s production of Cinderella. Jimmy will be displaying his talent for musical theatre as Cinderella’s dad, Baron Hardup, while John will be keeping kids and adults in stitches as the putupon Buttons. 13th December-4th January. Visit www. venuecymru.co.uk or call 01492 872000

Sleeping Beauty, Gregynog Hall, Tregynon, Newtown

The popular touring theatre company Fame Factory return with a fun-filled family-friendly production of Sleeping Beauty. There’ll be comedy in bucketloads delivered by larger-than-life Dame Nelly Noggin, un-ably assisted by the dimwitted Julian Fairy, with lots of topical gags, dances and songs, plus plenty of interaction and audience participation. Oh yes, there will! 14th December. Visit www. gregynog.org or call 01686 650224.

Cinderella William Cinderella, Aston Hall, Wrexham

The classic tale of poor housemaid Cinderella and her bullying stepsisters, with a baddie to boo, a hero to cheer, songs to sing along to and lots of festive surprises. Full of fun and surprises for children and adults alike. 6th-27th December. Visit www. glyndwr.ticketsolve.com or call 01978 293293

you! Snow White, Aberystwyth Arts Centre

Cruella, the wicked Queen, will go to any lengths to ensure she is the fairest in the land, so she banishes the royal guards – the magnificent seven dwarfs – far into the forest, and with the help of a ferocious dragon conjures up dangerous and powerful magic to get rid of Snow White. With a great cast, including Ioan Guile as the Queen’s henchman, Julie McNicholls as despicable Queen Cruella, Theresa Jones as Fusspot, and Richard Cheshire as the outrageous fun loving Dame Dotty Doughnut, plus spectacular sets and costumes, plenty of comedy routines, slapstick, magic and mayhem and lots of surprises, this panto is sure to banish any post-Christmas blues. 8th-24th January. Visit www.aberystwytharts centre.co.uk or call 01970 623232

Jack and the Beanstalk, Lyceum Theatre, Crewe

This year’s Christmas special at the Lyceum stars Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley as The Fairy – whose costumes will be even more sparkly than the ones she wore on Strictly Come Dancing! – plus TV reality show and travel star Brendan Sheerin as King… er… Brendan. They each bring their own brand of comedy to the show, and together will take you on a tour of the magical beanstalk and into a mythical land of giants and castles. 13th December-4th January. Visit crewelyceum.co.uk or call the theatre on 01270 368242

‘The ever-popular Brad Fitt returns as the flamboyant dame, with his eagerly anticipated and outrageous costumes’

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Sleeping Beauty, Grove Park Theatre, Wrexham

Peter Pan, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury

Join the cast of Peter Pan in their attempts to find the cure to growing older! The ever-popular Brad Fitt returns as the flamboyant and witty dame with his eagerly anticipated outrageous and colourful costumes. Alongside the fun for kids, there’ll be plenty of contemporary jokes to keep the adults giggling too. With local children in the roles of the Lost Boys and Michael Darling, you can expect plenty of audience participation… 3rd December-11th January. Visit www. theatresevern.co.uk or call 01743 281281

Beauty and the Beast, The Place, Telford

It’s chaos, calamities and lots of comedy as wicked witch Guillotine casts a spell on the dashing prince, condemning him to spend the next two years living as a beast – unless he can be saved by true love. A host of colourful characters bring the story to life, including Professor Rene Crackpot and his crazy inventions, Gerlad Le Huntsman (village hunk), Madame Cherie Trifle and Hugo Le Gaff, all delivering plenty of pantomime magic and fun. 9th December-5th January. Visit www. theplacetelford. com or call 01952 382382

After a curse is cast upon Princess Francesca at her christening by the wicked witch Frostbite, will her one true love be able to save her? With all sorts of fun and games, magic, music and of course the promise of a happy ending: a fun-filled family night out. 5th December-3rd January. Visit www.groveparktheatre.co.uk or call 01978 351 091

Jack and the Beanstalk, Clwyd Theatr Cymru

A rock’n’roll panto with more than 20 hit songs played live including Mercy, Reach Out, Lady Marmalade and – of course – Hit the Road, Jack. All the ingredients of classic panto, including slapstick, jokes and lots of audience participation – this is great fun for all ages. 28th November-24th January. Visit www.clwyd-theatr-cymru. co.uk, or call 0845 330 3565

Aladdin, Forum Studio Theatre, Chester

Written especially for local audiences, this production has everything you would expect in a Christmas pantomime – silly humour, actual jokes, a daft dame in outrageous frocks, plenty of ‘he’s behind you!’s, custard pies, and lashings of audience participation. 6th December-4th January. Visit www.tiptopproductions.co.uk or call 01244 341296

Dick Whittington, Theatre on the Steps

Follow Dick’s progress as he sets out for London to seek fame and fortune. Packed full of hilarious slapstick comedy, silly jokes, great music and scenery this is a show for children of all ages. 3rd-24th January. Visit www. theatreonthesteps.co.uk or call 01746 766477

Pws Mewn Bwts, Theatr Hafren, Newtown

A Welsh version of the famous Puss in Boots adventure, suitable for Welsh learners as well as young Welsh speakers. The tall tale tells of a poor miller’s son, Jac, who is left little in his father’s will except a very talented cat. After the roaring success of his debut as Dame last year, Martyn Geraint will spend another winter in posh frocks (which are worth the ticket price alone!) while trying to help Jac marry the princess. There’ll be much fun, music, dance and great special effects! 16th December. Visit www.thehafren.co.uk or call 01686 614555.

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 37

Winter Film Releases We pick out some of the new movie releases we’re looking forward to in November and December My Old lady 21st November An impoverished New Yorker, Mathias travels to Paris to liquidate a huge, valuable apartment he has inherited from his estranged father. Once there, he discovers that the apartment comes with an unwanted added extra – a cantankerous old woman called Mathilde. A comedy-drama starring the wonderful Maggie Smith along with Kevin Kline, Kristin Scott Thomas and Dominique Pinon, this will have you smiling from scene one. The hOMesMan 28th November When three women are driven to the point of insanity after living a harsh pioneer life, the unenviable task of transporting them from Nebraska to an Iowa mental facility falls to lonely frontierswoman Mary Bee Cuddy, played with dignity and strength by Hilary Swank. Along the way, she meets up with an ageing drunkard by the name of George Briggs (Tommy Lee Jones, who also directed the film) and together they learn some valuable life lessons. Ge GeT sanTa 5th December Nine-year-old Tom discovers Santa Claus (Jim Broadbent) asleep in the garage after crash-landing his sleigh, and agrees to help him return home to Lapland. Tom’s father, however, is reluctant to get involved – he’s recently been released from prison so wants to stay out of trouble. But with Santa’s reindeer incarcerated at Battersea Dogs Home and Christmas itself under threat, someone has to do something before it’s too late. P POkéMOn The MOvie: diancie and The cO cOcOOn Of desTrucTiOn 25th December Based on the animated series, this film promises to be a Christmas hit among the youngsters. Deep in the underground Diamond Domain, ruler Diancie’s strength is weakening, the domain gradually falling apart. While seeking help from the legendary Pokémon Xerneas, Diancie encounters a group of thieves who want to take control of the diamond-producing power at any cost. Didn’t understand a word of that? Don’t worry – your children will! u unbrOken 26th December Adapted from the novel Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand, this drama chronicling the incredible life of Louis Zamperini – a US athlete at the 1936 Olympics and Japanese prisoner of war – is tipped to be a box office success. Directed by Angelina Jolie and starring a clutch of up-and-coming actors, this is a fitting tribute to Zamperini, who died earlier this year at the age of 97. The cursed Man 31st December This gory horror film follows Alister, a deranged psychopath with an urge to kill any woman who offers him the slightest kindness – a simple smile or innocent glance in his direction is all it takes. Now incarcerated in a mental institution, Alister convinces himself that death itself is in love with him, forcing him to kill against his will. When a beautiful psychologist begins working on his case, Alister braces himself for the inevitable slaughter...

Yattar Reviews Erddig Apple Festival Erddig House & Gardens, Wrexham, 4th-5th October

Erddig held its 24th Apple Festival during the first weekend of October, with more than 3,000 people coming through the doors each day. There was plenty to do for everyone, including archery, roasting marshmallows on a campfire, cookery demonstrations and an apple trail. The live music from a jazz group and Mold Town Concert Band kept everyone in high spirits and there was an air of nostalgia as we heard pieces such as The Dambusters March by Eric Coates, and Frank Sinatra’s Fly Me to the Moon which had people singing along and dancing in front of the stage. Many visitors bought apples from Erddig’s own orchards, which boast 180 varieties, and sampled cider from the bar, but it was a pity that the apple pressing was no longer in the main yard – a good central space – and some of the food stalls were a little expensive. All in all, though, an excellent weekend with a lively atmosphere, and I’m already looking forward to next year’s 25th anniversary of the Apple Festival. RP H H H

Cambrian Orchestra – TV and Film Spectacular, The Stiwt, Wrexham, 4th October

Conducted by Mark Lansom, this was an informal yet educational concert. We heard classics such as John Williams’ Jurassic Park, and Rossini’s William Tell Overture – best known as theme tune of the TV series The Lone Ranger – as well as the Thunderbirds theme and Eric Coates’ Dambusters March. There was a large age range among the audience, and the wide repertoire meant there was something for everyone. Before each piece, we were provided with interesting snippets of information about the music and it was particularly fascinating to learn of a 1936 film, Things to Come, where a war had been predicted to start in Christmas 1940. Mark Lansom announced that the next concert will be taking place on Valentine’s Day and I’ve already made a note to put it in my diary. RP H H H H H

Dorothy Clive Garden Annual Chilli Festival, Willoughbridge, 21st September

A good-sized crowd (we did not realise there were so many chilli fans!) on a lovely September day seemed to really enjoy the many and varied chilli-themed attractions held at the beautiful Dorothy Clive Gardens – organisers of this festival for the past three years now. There were contests for chilli

cooking, chilli sauces and, scariest of all, chilli eating. Wandering around the festival we came across chilli market stalls, activities for children, salsa dancing, live music and cookery demonstrations. All in all, great fun – we bought some lovely different chillis to try at home (which have since been enjoyed enormously), and can’t wait to go again. We’re thinking about making our own chilli sauce – if it’s any good we might just enter next year… DB H H H

Lady Gaga ArtRave NIA Birmingham, 15th October

Since smashing into the UK charts, Lady Gaga has been a much-talked-about artist. I remember when she wasn’t quite so renowned and played at V Festival back in 2009, but because of the crowds I wasn’t able to see the stage. I’d tried before to get tickets to one of Lady Gaga’s tours, but failed, so I was very excited to finally be seeing her. She is well known for her outrageousness and her ArtRave tour was no exception. With multiple crazy outfit changes she belted out her hits. It’s clear she is one talented lady with a mind of her own, as she moved between dancing and playing the piano declaring: ’You do not need a record label or a manager to be an artist!’ Her performance was loud, colourful and feelgood. ES H H H H

Horrible Histories, Theatre Severn, 22nd-24th September Although the Horrible Histories show was hilarious, some of the scenes were very brief, but this was so they could cover lots of history. Perhaps if they’d focused on only a few things it would have been much better and we would have learnt much more from it than we did. Personally, I thought the four actors did an amazing job at being so quick getting changed after each scene. I was also quite surprised with all the information they managed to tell us. Out of all the periods of history my favourite was the part about Henry VIII when the actor turned himself into a puppet and did a rap song about all his wives. It was hilarious and I couldn’t stop laughing. During the play I was astounded by the special effects they put in between intervals. Wherever you sat

If you’ve got a show or event happening anywhere in Wales and the Borders we’d love to come and review it! Just email to: editorial@ yattaryattar.co.uk

you were hit by bombs and planes and birds flew at you! To conclude I would very much go back there again with my family. TB, aged 10 H H H

Hamper Festival, Llangollen, 18th-19th October

Thousands of visitors poured through the doors of the pavilion over the weekend of The Llangollen Hamper Festival and they were not disappointed. There were more than 100 hundred stalls, with a huge variety of food and drink, plus craft, furniture and art on offer. There was even a stall with home-made dog treats! Stallholders provided plenty of samples and they were all-too-happy to have a chat about their produce and advise on flavours and gift ideas. Festival-goers could also watch cooking demonstrations which went on throughout both days. The warm weather meant you could sit in the sun and enjoy a bite to eat from the outdoor food stalls, which ranged from a hog roast with all the trimmings to freshly cooked crepes. We were also provided with live entertainment from local singers, male voice choirs and the Llangollen Silver Band. RP H H H H

Mold Food and Drink Festival Mold, 20th-21st September

Having enjoyed myself so much at last year’s event, I’d had the Mold Food and Drink festival in my diary all year for another visit. There was lots to see and do from sampling the delicious food and drink on offer from local producers, to getting the children involved with making food with the help of Coleg Cambria, or taking part in different craft activities with Spavens Sweet Shop. It was great to sample the foods I was unable to try at last year’s event – you have to pace yourself, or you’re completely stuffed before you’ve even got half-way around all the stalls! My favourite part of the festival was the Celyn Farmers Market tent where I came home with lots of goodies. The festival is a great family-fun event and next year is its 10th anniversary, so I recommend you put 19th-20th September 2015 in your diary now! ES H H H H

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 39

Bright lights, big city Want to catch a big city show? We’ve picked some of the best in Liverpool, Manchester and Birmingham...

Liverpool

Lee Mack: Hit the Road, Mack Liverpool Empire, 15th December Lee Mack, the multi-award-winning star of Would I Lie To You? and Not Going Out, is going back on the road with his much-anticipated first live tour in more than four years. Expect his trademark brand of high-energy banter, wellcrafted gags and sharp one-liners in what promises to be a raucous night! Visit www.liverpooltheatres.com Dreaming of a Barry White Christmas, Echo Arena, 15th December-3rd January This modern take on the story of Scrooge took the stage by storm last year and now it’s back by popular demand. Thomas despises everybody and everything – especially Christmas – and this year he’s planning to make his employees’ Yuletide even more miserable than usual. Packed with adult humour and a nostalgic selection of 70s tunes this is a must-see show for the broadminded! Visit www.echoarena.com

Manchester

Shrek, the Musical, Palace Theatre, 2nd December-11th January Based on the award-winning DreamWorks animation film, this hilarious production is one for the whole family. Join Shrek and his trusty sidekick, Donkey, as they embark on a quest to rescue the beautiful (if slightly temperamental) Princess Fiona from a firebreathing, love-sick dragon. Add the diminutive Lord Farquaad and a biscuit with attitude and you have the biggest, brightest musical comedy of the year. Visit www.manchester theatres.com 40 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

Little Shop of Horrors, The Royal Exchange, 5th December-17th January This 1950s musical sci-fi spoof, based on the cult film of the same name, will get your festive season off to a deliciously ‘horror’ble start. Unassuming florist Seymour finds fame when he discovers an exotic plant with a macabre craving. What will Audrey, the girl of his dreams, make of the man-eating shrub and will she live long enough to tell him? Visit www.royalexchange.co.uk

Birmingham

Birmingham Royal Ballet: The Nutcracker, Hippodrome, 28th November-13th December Sir Peter Wright’s production and tells the tale of Clara, a young girl who simply can’t wait to play with her new Christmas present – a nutcracker doll. However, all is not as it seems and Clara is transported to a fantasy world of toy soldiers, fairies, magic and mystery. Exquisitely performed and completely mesmerising, a must-see for all ballet fans. Visit www.birminghamhippodrome.com The BFG, Birmingham Rep, 26th November-24th January When Sophie is snatched from her orphanage by the Big Friendly Giant, she fears the worst. However, very soon she realises that he’s not a monster, but a dream catcher who collects sweet dreams and delivers them to children. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for the child-chomping ogres Bloodbottler and Fleshlumpeater. Coming from the marvellous mind of Roald Dahl, The BFG has been a favourite for over 30 years. Visit www.birmingham-rep.co.uk

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Christmas markets

The holidays will light up Chester this year

Looking for somewhere to do your Christmas shopping, get a taste of some traditional food and enjoy a fun and festive atmosphere? Simply head for your nearest seasonal market… Historical craft at Ludlow Castle

everything from handmade jewellery, gifts and handbags to wooden toys. Plus there will be plenty of entertainment for all.

Cheshire

Shropshire b Ludlow Castle Medieval Christmas Fayre 29th-30th November, 10am-4pm Get your Christmas season off to a great start in the beautiful setting of Ludlow castle. Over the weekend there’s the opportunity to explore more than 100 stalls selling seasonal wares, food and drink, crafts, historical goods and more. Grab a mulled wine, a spiced cider or head to the local beer tent and enjoy entertainment from the Plantagenet Society knights, The Armagh Rhymers, a bed of nails, fire juggling and the 10ft giants Sid and Punch and more. A truly great day out for all the family. b Penkridge Victorian Christmas Market, 28th November, 5pm-9pm With more than 100 stalls of food and local crafts, as well as plenty of entertainment, the Victorian Christmas market marks the start of the festive season. The market will be brimming with local produce plus craft stalls selling

b Chester Christmas market, 20th November-14th December More than 70 chalets will spring up in the city centre, around a sparkling 40ft Christmas tree. Sample the best of local and regional products, plus of course there’ll be plenty of hot food and drink to keep you warm. b ‘Cheshire Food Festival Does Christmas’, 13th-14th Dec, at Arley Hall Foodies familiar with Cheshire Food Festival won’t want to miss this special two-day Christmas edition. The event promises to be a ‘fantastic family foodie day out’ featuring chef demonstrations, free tasters, a host of food based challenges and junior cookery classes. All in the idyllic setting of Arley Hall and Gardens with plenty of music and entertainment for all of the family.

North Wales b Llandudno Christmas Fayre, 20th-23rd November With more than 130 stalls offering handmade and unusual crafts and gifts from local artisans, plus craftmaking demonstrations and local food and produce, as well as a Santa’s Grotto, there’s a chance to get

There’s a really busy Christmas market in Llandudno

everything you need for Christmas here, from giftwrapping to the traditional Brussels sprouts. Plus, Llandudno is a great place for a day out for all the family, with plenty of other shopping opportunities and two beaches for a bracing winter walk. b Gladstone’s Christmas Craft Fair, 30th November Head to Gladstone’s Library at Hawarden, Flintshire for an opportunity to discover the work of local craftspeople, and to ease yourself gently into Christmas. There will be unusual and precious gifts on offer, all made with love and care. Plus the chance to have one of Gladstone’s famed Christmas lunches.

Let there be light! Don’t miss the best chance to welcome in the festive season – the traditional lights switch on is a chance to join in the parade, meet Santa and get in the Christmas spirit! Shrewsbury,, 19th November Bridgnorth,, 21st November Market Drayton, 22nd November Alderley Edge,, 20th November Chester,, 20th November Nantwich,, 22nd November Frodsham,, 25th November Prestatyn,, 28th November Llanrwst,, 28th November Newtown,, 28th November Welshpool,, 5th December

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 43

CHRISTMAS MARKETS

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Birmingham’s Frankfurt Market is famous for the food and drink

b Llangollen Christmas Festival, 29th November The streets will be lined with festive stalls providing unique gift ideas and produce. While browsing you’ll be entertained by an array of street performers and a parade through the town. The children can make their Christmas wishes at Sion Corn’s Grotto and soak up the atmosphere with the Christmas lights switch on, before ending the night with a bang watching the fireworks display.

as delicious treats to sample. There will be a Santa trail for children in the gardens.

b Holywell Christmas Market, 29th November There will be a variety of stalls on the high street and the first hundred children will receive a free gift bag on arrival. There’s also talk of some reindeer, as well as a special guest – wonder who that might be? The Christmas lights switch on will take place the day before on Friday 28th.

Mid wales

b Plas Newydd Christmas Fair, 6th-7th December More than 60 stalls will fill this National Trust house on Anglesey, so you can shop in comfort out of the unpredictable Welsh weather. The fair will feature an array of bespoke hand-crafted goods and gifts as well

Aberystwyth’s fair is great for local crafts

b Wrexham Victorian Christmas Market, 11th December This bustling Christmas market has more than 70 stalls offering an array of clothing, candles, bags and books. You can also order your Christmas poultry and meats from local producers. Taste a vast range of continental and local produce and beverages to keep you warm while browsing the stalls.

b Aberystwyth Craft and Gift Fair, 31st October-23rd December Aberystwyth Arts Centre hosts this annual fair with more than 80 stalls selling jewellery, ceramics, prints, metalwork, textiles, home made chocolates and much more, produced by local makers. Plus, in November, the Arts Centre has a Christmas Food Fair, providing the very best of 100 per cent Welsh produce including meat, fish, poultry, cheese and ciders.

Best of the rest…

k Comberbach Winter Craft Fair, 15th November from 10am-3pm at Comberbach Memorial Hall, Cheshire k Christmas Winter Crafts Fayre, 28th November, 4-8pm at The Waverley Hotel, Crewe k Abersoch Christmas Festival Weekend, 28th-30th November, Abersoch Village, Llyn Peninsula k Glasdir Christmas Craft and Food Fair, 28th-29th November, Llanrwst, Conwy k Much Wenlock Christmas Fayre, 6th December, 10am, High Street, Much Wenlock, Shropshire k Port Meirion Christmas Food and Craft Fair, 6th-7th December 10am-4pm, Port Merion village, Gwynedd k Shrewsbury Chronicle Christmas Market, 20th December 9am-6pm, Town Centre, Shropshire

Big City Christmas Markets Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market, 13th November-22nd December More than 300 authentic German market stalls selling an array of products from hand-crafted gifts to traditional German food and drink, and traditional German Christmas decorations. If walking around the markets doesn’t appeal, you can still soak up the atmosphere by taking a ride in one of the carousels while listening to the carol singers and choirs. Manchester Christmas markets, 14th November-21st December Visit Manchester to see the streets lined with over 300 traditional festive chalets. Taste European delicacies such as Spanish paella and Hungarian goulash or browse the chalets for unique gifts such as amber jewellery and hand crafted leather bags. Liverpool Christmas markets, 21st November-22nd December More than 80 Christmas market stalls offering alternative Christmas gifts, from African wall hangings to South American instruments. There’s plenty of refreshment at hand, or take the kids to visit the winter village and find Santa in his grotto.

‘More than 60 stalls will fill the National Trust’s Plas Newydd on Anglesey’ 44 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

VILLAGE CRAFTS Betws-y-Coed Village Crafts is a unique gift shop in Betws-y-Coed for that extra special Christmas gift or simply to treat yourself. Some of the products we stock include: Adini Clothing, Edge Sculpture, Charlie Bears, Madaraff Bags, Coeur de Lion Jewellery and Lladr贸 Porcelain.

Teddy bears Christmas

La de da - Vintage Living

Preparing for Christmas

Venus by Edge Sculpture

Xmas Robin

Preparing for Christmas

Saving your pennies for a sunny day

Ribbonwick - Candlelight Reinvented

Spoil yourself with Coeur de Lion

Snuggle up this Christmas

Lion by Edge Sculpture

Station Approach, Betws-y-Coed, Gwynedd, LL24 0AE See our website: www.villagecrafts.net Email us: villagecrafts@tiscali.co.uk Phone: 01690 710 604

Cuff bangle from the Kit Heath Sterling Silver range, £250, from Bensons of Ludlow, www.bensonsofludlow.co.uk

Sterling Silver Necklet by up and coming designer Lucy Q, £490, from Bensons of Ludlow

Nordic Christmas stockings, £29.95 each, from Petticoat Lane, Llandudno, www. petticoatlaneshop.co.uk

Wooden advent calendar boxes with felt and wool tree decorations, £3.99, and wooden toys from £21.99, wood filigree Christmas trees from £11.99. From Village Crafts, Betws y Coed, www.villagecrafts.net

Christmas gifts guide

Tearing your hair out over what to get for who? With Yattar Yattar’s complete guide to festive shopping all your worries are over

100% lambswool Hound Crew jumper by Barbour, £99.95, from Vaughan Davies, Mold. www.vaughan davies.co.uk

48 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

Tree-mendous!

Head to Winston Farm Christmas Trees near Ellesmere in Shropshire and not only will you find thousands of freshly cut trees to choose from, you’ll also have a chance to meet Santa’s reindeer – including some new additions to the herd! With trees ranging from 3ft to 30ft, with non-drop needles, plus free netting and log bases available, you’re sure to find a specimen that will fit in your home and can be up and ready to decorate in no time. And while you’re choosing your tree, the kids can get up close and personal with real, live reindeer – an enchanting experience for all. Winston Farm, Ellesmere SY12 9BA. Call 07860 669301 to find out more.

Three-wheeled ride-on John Deere Tractor has a steering wheel with sounds and comes complete with a matching detachable trailer. Suitable for 2 years plus, £49.99, from wynnstayonline.co.uk

One-stop shopping Want tO avOid the crOWded ded high street When getting all yOur christmas hristmas needs this year? here’s a feW suggestiOns… Carlton Garden Centre, llay, Wrexham a great place to begin your christmas shopping with everything from christmas decorations and winter greenery to unique gift ideas. Plassey retail VillaGe, Wrexham With a unique selection of local boutiques and craft shops the retail village offers a great alternative to crowded shopping centres for finding gifts for all the family.

Pheasant hip flask, £40, from www. wynnstayonline.co.uk Brighten up a bare spot with a fun snowman! aluminium snowman christmas decoration, £17.99, from www. britishironworkcentre.co.uk

Fifty Ways to Tease Your Lover game, £17.99, from The Fantasy House, Wrexham, www.thefantasyhouse.co.uk

tWeedmill shoPPinG outlet, st asaPh Offering a vast selection of affordable brands such as thomas & fredrick homewares, Baylis & harding gifts, henry hunt menswear and Jaques Vert ladieswear, Tweedmill is a fine option for getting all your christmas gifts from one destination. Cheshire oaks, ellesmere Port a large designer outlet offering free parking and a vast choice of brands at factory prices including fossil, mulberry and lacoste. if all the shopping makes you hungry there’s a selection of restaurants to choose from such as café rouge and harry ramsden’s. BrouGhton shoPPinG Park, Chester With free parking and an array of shops Broughton provides an alternative to the hustle and bustle of city shopping. With brands including accessorize, clarks, home sense and the nike factory you’re sure to find gifst to suit everyone’s tastes.

Handcrafted pendant, £22, by Heather Gems, from Shop in the Clouds, Llangollen, www. shopintheclouds.com

sundaWn Garden Centre, holyWell from tiso outdoor clothing, through yankee candles and unique christmas decorations, to mim’s pottery products for christmas greenery or your christmas tree, this centre has a great range of products to help you begin all your christmas preparations. Coed y dinas, WelshPool a garden centre with heaps of choice. country clothing and footwear, gifts and toys, stationery and craft materials are just a few of the gift ideas, while the food hall offers great Welsh produce for your christmas feast.

ChloBo Starry Eyes Collection bracelets, £325, from Mococo, Find more online at www.mococo.co.uk

the Parade, shreWsBury an independent shopping centre, with an array of unique shops under one roof. retailers include cave records’ vinyl and memorabilia, Elfin Shoes’ handmade footwear and Beadles bespoke jewelry.

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 49

JUST ARRIVED The newavailable winter mens and at ladies lifestyle collections of coats, knits, shirts, scarves, socks and accessories.

VAUGHANDAVIES The Cross, Wrexham Street, Mold, Flintshire CH7 1ET 01352 752632 www.vaughandavies.co.uk info@vaughandavies.co.uk

YATTARYATTAR

Bus wine bottle holder, £49, from The Gift Company, 01244 343456

Calla-lily copper/silver pendant, £39.99, from Palenque, www.palenque jewellery.co.uk

Chester delights Savanna coat, £395, from Fenn Wright & Manson, www. fennwright manson.com

Hugo Boss round grey dial watch, £139, from Chisholm Hunter, www. chisholmhunter.co.uk

Italian cotton herringbone checked shirt, £145, from Gieves & Hawkes, www. gievesandhawkes.com

Nude & grey fade scarf by Betty Barclay, £35, from www. poppyvarden.com

Pendant made from real leaf skeletons coated in gold, copper or silver, by Two Skies Designs, from £19, from Trefriw Woollen Mills, Conwy, www.t-w-m.co.uk

Candelabra, £18.55 complete with candles and decoration; dragon tealight holders, £14.99 each; all from Corwen Manor, www.corwenmanor.co.uk

Treat a loved one to some original art this Christmas. Michael Laxton’s ‘Glimpse of Autumn’, original acrylic, £360, from Galeri Betws y Coed, www.galeribetwsycoed.co.uk. Nutmeg & Ginger body Crème, £50, from Jo Malone, www. jomalone.co.uk All of these shops and more can be found at Chester’s Grosvenor Shopping Centre

Fairtrade leather bags, made from recycled offcuts. Each bag is unique in colours. Small, £23; large, £32, find them at Rowanthorn, Oswestry, 01691 238227

50 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

Tree-total

Not sure which Christmas tree is right for your home? Head for the Oswestry Christmas Tree Farm and Shop at Pentreclawdd Farm, and you’ll find tree specialists on hand to help you pick your tree – and then they’ll wrap it and take it to your car for you! There’s a variety of trees to choose from, including all sizes of non-drop Nordmann Fir and Norway Spruce, as well as potted trees and tree stands. All the trees are locally grown, and include free netting to protect your tree until you get it home. Pentreclawdd Farm are members of the British Christmas Tree Growers’ Association, so you can rest assured that you will get a quality tree. As well as Christmas trees, you can find all sorts of things to help make your Christmas special at Pentreclawdd’s Christmas shop, which stocks a range of gifts, decorations, wrapping paper, cards and crackers. So that’s Christmas all wrapped up! Visit online at www.pentreclawddfarm.co.uk or call to find out more on 01691 712781.

ACTIVATE your Christmas

Want to give a loved-one a memory that will last a lifetime? Whether you opt for an unrepeatable one-off or hope to get them kickstarted on a hobby they’ll enjoy forever, there’s a host of things to choose from...

Dive with sharks

Looking for a Christmas present with a real difference? Why not surprise someone special with a dive with sharks? Blue Planet Aquarium in Cheshire Oaks offers experiences where even absolute beginners can scuba dive with three-metre-long sharks, stingrays and hundreds of colourful tropical fish. Accompanied at all times by highly experienced instructors, you can enjoy close encounters with a host of spectacular marine Got a horse lover in the family? Why not creatures. There are more than a dozen reat them to a pony trekking session in different species of shark and ray, ranging the beautiful Mawddach Estuary? from exotic Guitar Sharks and graceful Bwlchgwyn Farm has mounts to suit all Southern Stingrays to Black Tip Reef Sharks ages and abilities – you can choose and the famous Sand Tiger Sharks. from a gentle trek through farmland, As an official PADI Dive Centre, Blue with stunning views of the estuary Planet provides the highest levels of and Cadair Idris, to a ride along Find lots professional training and instruction, Fairbourne’s sandy beach. No so even total novices are able to more great experience is necessary and enjoy an unforgettable undersea safety hats are provided. Call present ideas in encounter. Call 0151 357 8804 or 01341 250107 or visit www. our Christmas Gift visit www.blueplanetaquarium.com bwlchgwynfarm.co.uk

Mount up for a ride along the seashore

Get on your bike

guide, on page 48

Got a keen mountain biker in the family? If so you could hardly choose a better present than a gift voucher for a day spent with top pro biker Neil Donoghue at One Planet Adventure in the Llandegla Forest. Neil has been a pro for nine years, racing at World Cup level, and his reputation as one of the best riders in the world has been cemented by a number of top 10 finishes. He’s also one of the most stylish riders this country has ever had, according to mountain biking magazines like MBUK. Neil’s Jumps & Drops course is for experienced riders who want to push their skills up a notch, and learn how to overcome terrain like roots, and get to new levels of all-round mountain biking. One Planet Adventure also has a range of other courses, from beginner to advanced which can be bought as gifts. Visit www.oneplanetadventure.com or call 01978 751656.

Learn a bit of bushcraft

Got someone in the family who fancies him or herself as a bit of a Ray Mears? Let them indulge their inner wild man with an experience day or course at Cheshire Bushcraft. This outdoor skills centre, based at Blakemere Village near Northwich, has its own 15-acre woodland where fun, friendly and educational courses for all ages are held. From a Family Bushcraft Day (covering fire lighting, shelter building, water purifying and campfire cooking) to spending a night in the woods, learning to build a coracle or making an ash bow, there’s something to suit everybody. And at least you’ll be prepared if civilisation should collapse around our ears in the near future! Visit www.cheshirebushcraft.co.uk or call 01606 882223.

Take to two wheels

Treat the whole family to an experience with Cheshire Segway this Christmas. With 15 acres of woodlands to explore, on X2 Segway personal transporters that can take you from metalled paths to woodland tracks easily and safely, Segways are great fun. You move and steer by shifting your weight, and after a safety talk and training you’ll be out enjoying the course and the glory of the lovely woodland. Call 01606 888090 or visit www.cheshiresegway.co.uk

Fly a falcon

Bird lovers will be thrilled to receive a gift that gets them up close and personal with some magnificent birds of prey and owls – and you can give them that thrill with a voucher for one of Cheshire Falconry’s experience days. Whether you choose a one-and-a-half-hour raptor encounter, a full day’s falconry flying, or anything else in between, the experience days are fully hands-on, so the lucky recipient of your gift will be flying birds of prey from their own wrist in no time. Call 01606 882223 or visit www.cheshirefalconry.com

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 53

ACTIVATE your Christmas

Get karting

Give the budding racing driver or adrenalin junkie in your family a gift with a difference. With a Karting Experience gift voucher from GYG Karting at Cerrigydrudion in north Wales, they’ll get the chance to race on one of the largest karting circuits in the UK. GYG has an 1100m outdoor racing circuit, with junior karts for nine- to 15-year-olds and senior karts for over 16s. A safety briefing and full safety equipment are all included, and for the real karting enthusiast, there are private lesson gift experiences available, with tuition from a F3 racing driver, engineer and driving coach. Gifts start from only £17 per person. Call 01490 420770 or visit gygkarting.com.

Take to the white water

Give your loved one the adventure of a lifetime with a gift voucher for the National Whitewater Centre. They’re guaranteed to have a good time as the centre has the unique benefit of having a dam-controlled river at its disposal. The Tryweryn is a truly wild mountain river, but because it’s downstream of the Llyn Celyn reservoir there are plenty of white water rapids guaranteed whatever the time of year or weather. There are all sorts of sessions and activities to choose from whether you want to spend two hours crashing down exhilarating white water rapids, or climb, scramble, slide and swim your way down the gorge on a canyoning day. And don’t worry if you’re not sure which activity your intended recipient would prefer – the vouchers are transferable, so whatever activity and amount you buy, it can be changed and topped up when the user gets to the centre. And the vouchers are e-vouchers, so they make a great last-minute Christmas gift! Call 01678 521803 or visit www.ukrafting.co.uk

Trek at Chirk

Combine a historical and natural history learning experience with the fun and excitement of Segway, at Chirk Castle. Segtrek’s trail around the grounds of the castle takes you into beautiful woodlands, fields and deer parks, navigating through 500 acres of picturesque settings on a 2.5 mile-round trail. As you travel along you might come across grazing pigs and Welsh ponies, and you’ll pass sites of special scientific interest with rare forms of fungi and moss covering the 400-year-old trees. And of course you’ll get to see the castle from lots of different angles. With plenty of opportunity to stop for pictures along the way, this experience would make a great gift for any age. Visit www.segtrek.co.uk or call 07951 934695.

54 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

Motivate our readers! Contact us now to get your Outdoor Activity business featured in our Yattar Active section.

Call: 01978 813035

or email advertising@yattaryattar.co.uk to find out more

Is your business family friendly? Then get in touch to find out how to be featured in our Family section

Call: 01978 813035

or email advertising@yattaryattar.co.uk

“Styling you and your home for less”

Shopping

The one-stop-shop for all your Christmas shopping Ladieswear, Menswear, Gifts, Home accessories, Cook shop, Pavers Footwear, Handbags & Luggage, Farm Shop, Cutting Mill, Mill Computers, Mill Clinic, Sewing Stop, Blas Clwyd Café & Tower Coffee Shop

01745 730072 www.tweedmill.co.uk Llannerch Park, St Asaph, Denbighshire, LL17 0UY CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY

Opening times Mon – Sat: 9:30am – 6pm Sunday (browse from 10am) 10:30am – 4:30pm

FREE tea or coffee

within the

Blas Clwyd Café Expires Dec 31st 2014

Make the most of

winter

Our coldest season can be a great one, so rather than having a winter of discontent, banish the blues with our suggestions for great things to do…

re-Christmas can be a hard time. The clocks have just changed, the nights are getting longer and longer; sometimes it feels like you go to work and come home again in the dark without ever seeing a bit of daylight... It can be all too tempting to just go into a kind of hibernation over winter, and spend your evenings and weekends curled up in front of the telly with a box set of Mad Men and a big bar of chocolate. But don’t do it! We challenge you to make this your best winter ever – there’s lots to see and do and plenty of ways to keep healthy and active. Plus, winter is a great time to challenge yourself – whether you want to go ice-climbing for the first time, or enrol for an evening class in a language or craft you’ve always wanted to master – make this winter the one when you get up and get out there!

Explore Snowdonia in the winter – Llyn Llydaw is beautiful in the snow

Keep the winter blues away and save money by getting creative. You don’t need to be a domestic goddess to create unique things, but if you’re short of inspiration or not sure what craft will appeal to you, head to a craft centre such as Afonwen, near Caerwys in Flintshire (www. afonwen.co.uk), where they hold Ah, we all love the idea of a brisk and healthy winter walk – it’s free, it’s easy, and regular demonstrations of a variety of different crafts. it’s a great way to discover your local countryside. But all too often we look out the The National Waterways Museum in Cheshire also has window,see a grey sky and think ‘oh sod it’ and get back under the blanket... But, regular craft demonstrations, as does the Elan Valley according to Yattar Yattar’s walking expert, Graham Uney, we’re missing out. Visitor Centre in mid Wales. ‘I love walking in winter,’ says Graham, ‘because that’s when you really feel There are also a host of pottery workshops where you like you’re a part of the outdoor environment. You can feel the wind and cold on can fire and decorate your own pots, and if you fancy those grey days, and, yes, you can get burnt from the sun reflecting making your own jewellery, the Mary Jane Collection in off the snow on the sunny days too.’ Flintshire (www.maryjanecollection.com) runs fun Walks that Graham loves to do in winter include striding and friendly needlework and jewellery classes, or DID YOU KNOW? out on Moel y Gamelin above Llangollen, climbing up to you can try a one-to-one workshop with artisan Rodney’s Pillar near Welshpool, and venturing into Cwm jeweller Lucy Copleston in the Vale of Clwyd More than 500,000 Bychan near Harlech. ‘Chances are,’ says Graham, (www.exclusivejewellery.co.uk). people reach the top ‘wherever you go walking in the winter months, you’ll of Snowdon every year, have the hills pretty much to yourself.’ Learn to make toys However, you do need to remember that the daylight but Snowdonia has three (above) or woodwork hours are very short, and learning how to read a map and skills at Afonwen more mountains over compass in darkness is a sensible precaution. It’s important 1,000 metres in to be safe when you’re walking in winter, especially if you height intend to climb any mountains. Icy slopes can be treacherous, and snowy slopes can avalanche, so if you want to head into the mountains get some winter skills training before you go. Graham runs skills courses for walkers through www.wildwalkswales.co.uk – or take a look at what’s on offer at Plas y Brenin, visit www.pyb.co.uk. And make sure you’ve got the right clothing – check out Cherry Tree Country Clothing in Ruthin (www. cherrytreecountryclothing.com) and Shropshire-based Country & Leisure Clothing (www.countryandleisureclothing.co.uk).

Step outdoors...

56 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

Photo © Crown copyright (2014) Visit Wales

Get crafty

WINTER ACTIVITIES

You can go sno-tubing on artificial ski slopes even when there isn’t any snow

Become a culture vulture or develop a taste for art Gone are the days when the word ‘museum’ summoned up images of stuffy, boring rooms with cobwebcovered displays, and ‘art gallery’ meant cold, sterile and characterless. Today the majority of museums and galleries are exciting, interactive and, thankfully, plentiful, and are a great way to spend a chilly winter’s day. Who knows, you might even learn something… Here’s a few of our favourites in the region:

Have an adventure

Sometimes we can feel a bit cheated by our winter weather – it’s so often just a slightly chillier version of autumn, whereas if we had really cold weather and snow we could go sledging, tobogganing, or skiiing... Well, don’t let the lack of the white stuff stop you from having a go at a ice rinks pop up all over at christmas, and skating is fun for all the family proper winter sport! As well as offering lessons in snowboarding and skiing, artificial ski slopes usually offer other fun activities as well – for instance, at Llandudno Ski Slope & Snowboard Centre (jnlllandudno.co.uk) you can also do ‘sno-tubing’: sitting in big, inflatable rubber rings that you slide down the hill, either attached to other tubers or individually. At the Telford & Wrekin Snowboard & Ski Centre, in Shropshire, you can learn to ski or snowboard, and there’s a nursery slope too, where the kids can go tobogganing while you perfect your slope skills. Visit www.telfordandwrekinleisure.co.uk. The Oval Sports Centre at Bebington, Wirral (www.wirral.gov.uk) also has a dry ski slope, and the Oval Ski Club (www.ovalskiclub.com) offer lessons for all ages – if you’ve never skied before, you can try some beginner sessions, designed to get newcomers started. Ice skating is another great winter activity that we don’t get to do often enough in the UK. Artificial and real skating rinks pop up all over the place at Christmas – learn to skate beforehand this year, and impress all your friends at the local Christmas Fair! The Deeside Ice Rink at Queensferry is the national centre for ice sports in Wales, and as well as skating it also caters for hockey and curling and even has discos on ice – visit www. flintshire.gov.uk for more information.

did you know?

The blades of ice skates were once made from the bones of animals such as horses, cows or deer

k ElEctric Mountain llanbEris A hydroelectric power station built deep inside the ancient Elidir mountains. Visit www. electricmountain.co.uk k llandudno MusEuM Discover the town’s heritage from pre-history to the present century. Visit www.llandudnomuseum.co.uk k chEshirE Military MusEuM, chEstEr History of Cheshire regiments from 1685 to present day, depicted in interactive displays. Visit www. cheshiremilitary museum.co.uk k twEnty twEnty GallEry Much wEnlock Contemporary art gallery and home to a selection of jewellery, ceramics, glass, furniture, sculpture, paintings and prints. Visit www.twenty-twenty.co.uk

k oriEl daviEs GallEry Powys Thought-provoking artwork created by national and international artists. Visit www. orieldavies.org

telford ski slope (inset above) and deeside ice rink

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 57

WINTER ACTIVITIES

Whether you want to climb a wall or practise yoga, keep active this winter

Keep active indoors

DID YOU KNOW?

Have a private film festival

Rock climbers are often If you really don’t fancy the idea of being Long, dark evenings are the out in the cold, it’s still no excuse for not employed to fix wind perfect excuse for a movie doing anything. Now is a good time to turbines as it’s usually marathon, so make this check out what your local health club/ the winter you see much cheaper and sports complex has to offer – and take up those classic films more efficient than an active indoor sport. that nobody should Most leisure centres will offer facilities for sports such as squash, using machinery miss. Here are some badminton and five-a-side football, and health clubs offer all sorts of suggestions… exercise classes including aerobics, yoga, Pilates and more. Climbing is a sport that has taken off massively in recent years, and you Labyrinth don’t have to defy death over hundred-foot canyons to do it. Indoor climbing In a fit of pique, Sarah wishes walls provide a safe but challenging way to learn the skills needed for climbing and to her baby brother kidnapped develop your stamina and strength. And also you don’t risk getting cold and wet while you’re by goblins. Not one to perfecting your moves. disappoint, David Bowie and At the Boardroom in Flintshire, you can start off gently with an introductory induction session, his motley crew of Muppeteither bouldering or climbing, or book yourself on to a four-week Induction to Climbing course. If like characters arrive and you’re already a confident climber, you can simply take out membership and go. The centre also grant the girl her wish. has a dedicated kids area, with lots of fun climbing games and challenges, and you can book it for birthday parties or other occasions. Visit www.theboardroomclimbing.com or call 01244 537476.

Make like a tourist

Winter is a great time to check out our local tourist hotspots – they’re no longer overrun with visitors, often the prices are cheaper, and some may even have a better atmosphere in winter than in summer. For instance, Wales’s ruined abbeys and castles are especially atmospheric on a winter’s evening, while chugging through frosty countryside in a cosy, heated carriage on one of our heritage steam railways is a Fun and games at Chester Zoo lovely way to spend a chilly day. Lots of our tourist attractions are not weather dependent at all, such as the old Braich Goch Slate Mine. The mine was first worked in 1836 and abandoned by the miners around 40 years ago. More than 130 years of history is captured inside waiting to be discovered – it’s as if the mine has just closed. Machinery, tools, even the candles and packets of cigarettes are still in place as the miners left them. Visit www.corrismineexplorers.co.uk. Another fun thing to do with the family in winter is visit some animals – in fact, it’s important to visit zoos in winter. It may surprise you to know that a lot of the animals enjoy interaction with humans, especially the monkeys and apes, and they get depressed during the winter when fewer people come to see them. Plus, lots of small zoos are doing important conservation work and struggle for money during the winter, so go on – pay your local monkeys a visit! T ry the Welsh Mountain Zoo in Colwyn Bay (01492 532938, www.welshmountainzoo.org), Pili Palas Nature World on Anglesey (01248 712474, www.pilipalas.co.uk), Animalarium at Borth (01970 871224, www.animalarium.co.uk) or Chester Zoo (01244 380280, www.chesterzoo.org). Below, left to right: Exploring at the old Braich Goch Slate Mine; a tiny marmoset at Borth Animalarium; ring-tailed lemurs at Welsh Mountain Zoo

58 48 yattaryattar magazine November/December September/October 2014 2014

DeaD Poets society This multi-award winning film, now celebrating 25 years, stars the late, great Robin Williams as an inspirational teacher who connects with his unruly students through the magic of poetry. eDwarD scissorhanDs Office favourite Johnny Depp (swoon) stars in this Gothic fairytale about a strange young man with scissors for hands. Dark, romantic, funny and, best of all, Deppy. Gravity Combining Sandra Bullock’s down-to-Earthiness as Dr Ryan Stone with some stunning special effects, this space adventure deservedly won a crater-full of awards and plaudits. sLumDoG miLLionaire A Mumbai teen from the slums is suspected of cheating to win the Indian version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? in this feel-good comedy-drama directed by Danny Boyle.

SEGWAY XMAS 2013 YATTER 285X97mm.qxd

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We are more than just a climbing wall.. . .we are a way of life.

Christmas Offers... Indoor climbing is more than a workout. It’s a three dimensional, problem solving, vertical dance; socially engaging, creative and thoroughly addictive.. isn’t it time you started having fun keeping in shape?

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WINTER ACTIVITIES

Hang on to summer

Curl up with a good book Winter is also a great time for catching up on all those books on your ‘must read’ list. Expand your mind and your horizons with a few well-chosen classics GullivEr’s TravEls JonaThan sWifT This classic (mis)adventure set in the scaled-down country of Lilliput and the land of gigantic Brobdingnagians still works for all ages, despite the savagery of Swift’s vision.

Cold ComforT farm sTElla Gibbons A witty satire on doomladen rural romances set in the late 1940S. ‘Something nasty’ has been observed in the woodshed.

lord of ThE fliEs William GoldinG On the surface, a tale of survival and loyalty, but dig a little deeper and discover the evil that seeps through when humans are driven to the edge...

Just because it’s no longer T-shirts and shorts weather doesn’t mean you have to stop doing summer sports. We tend to associate tennis with summer – mainly because of Wimbledon of course – but in fact the sport is played on all sorts of surfaces, all year round, even indoors. For example, Brymbo Sports Complex in Wrexham (www.brymbosportscomplex. co.uk) has four all-weather courts with lighting so it doesn’t matter what time of day or year it is, you can still serve up aces. In fact, now’s the time to get learning/practising, so when the next Wimbledon comes around, you can impress your friends with your Andy Murray-like skills...

Step out of your comfort zone

If you’ve ever yearned to learn a new skill or revive a forgotten one, now is a great time to make this a reality. Stimulate your grey matter on a grey day and enrol on an adult education course – you can study anything from cake decorating to dog grooming, horticulture car maintenance, DID YOU KNOW? tocomputing to childcare Studies have shown that and pretty much everything in between participating in adult – and it’s never too education has positive health benefits – including late to learn. Start by checking prolonging life and out the classes on delaying dependency offer from your local education authority; most colleges offer affordable, doable courses. Or, if you know what you want to do, research by subject. Visit www. schoolswebdirectory.co.uk for information local to you.

Oh, go on, stay in bed then…

And if you really, absolutely must do a bit of hibernating over the winter, may we suggest that you plan your pyjama day beforehand, and get organised. Stock up on your supplies – food, snacks and treats; reading matter and DVDs/downloads to watch; make sure you’ve got plenty of extra pillows and blankets – snuggle up, and while the day away on pure self-indulgence. After all, if you’re going to hibernate, you might as well do it properly!

ThE Color PurPlE aliCE WalkEr Walker won a Pulitzer Prize for the beautiful, haunting story of a young AfricanAmerican woman and her struggles in a world marked by poverty, sexism and racism.

GrEaT ExPECTaTions CharlEs diCkEns This masterly coming of age tale follows Pip, an orphan, and his transformation into a man of standing thanks to a mysterious benefactor.

Plan your pyjama day – after all, if you’re going to hibernate you might as well do it properly! November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 61

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It’s party time! If ever there was a time to get to know your colleagues a bit better, it’s Christmas, so book your party and get your glad rags on! Albright Hussey, Shropshire

Albright Hussey, Shropshire

Enjoy a three-course Christmas meal of award-winning food and fine wines in the stylish surroundings of Albright Hussey’s Imperial Suite. The price includes coffee and mints, plus Christmas novelties, and with a resident DJ playing tunes until 1am you can dance the night away.

coffee and mince pies and an event planner. If you’re looking for somewhere to hold an exclusive Christmas party for 40 guests or more, you can celebrate in Carden Park’s Clubhouse, with its own private entrance and bar, the perfect place to dance the night away. Or have a festive Friday lunch with colleagues or friends, including a three-course dinner with tea or coffee and festive novelties or crackers, with Christmas music to get you in the mood.

Kinmel Manor, Conwy

Chateau Rhianfa, Anglesey

Carden Park, Cheshire

There’s a range of ways to celebrate Christmas with friends, family and colleagues at Kinmel Manor, with party nights every Friday and Saturday night

Parties from £25-£39 per person; private parties in the Clubhouse from £25 per person; festive lunches £19.95 per person. Call 01829 721555 or visit www.cardenpark.co.uk

From £24.95 per person; visit www. albrighthussey.co.uk or call 01939 290523.

Have a Christmas party with friends, family or colleagues in the hotel’s Carden or Shooting Suites. Parties include a three-course sit-down menu, disco throughout the evening, table novelties,

Kinmel Manor, Conwy

Chateau Rhianfa, Anglesey

Enjoy a canapé reception followed by a three-course meal with tea/coffee and mince pies in Chateau Rhianfa’s Winter Wonderland. After you’ve filled up on food, drink and Christmas cheer, Father Christmas will be paying a visit with gifts for all, and then you can work off some of those calories consumed dancing the night away into the small hours. Thursday-Saturday, 4th-20th December, from £49 per person. Call 0330 333 7222.

throughout December. Each party night includes a full three-course Christmas meal, with party hats, crackers and games, followed by dancing and fun until late. There’s a resident DJ every night, with various live entertainment acts, or even a Las Vegas night when you can try your luck on the casino tables. Prices start from £29.95 per person. Visit www.kinmelmanor.co.uk to find out more, or call 01745 832014.

Lion Quays, Shropshire

There’s a host of ways to celebrate Christmas at Lion Quays, from a festive afternoon tea to a full-on party night. Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday in December you can enjoy a threecourse meal and disco, plus choose from the type of live music you’d like

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 67

Christmas Parties

Lion Quays resort, Shropshire

to accompany your meal, from a Robbie Williams tribute, to soul and Motown big band classics or 70s disco, funk and pop. Or, if you’d prefer something a little more cerebral for your Christmas celebration, how about a Murder Mystery three-course meal in the Conservatory – taking place every Friday and Saturday evening in December. You can also book a private dining room from £20 per person, Monday to Thursday and Sunday, or have an office Christmas lunch in the Waterside restaurant. Or have a festive afternoon tea, served daily from 12.30-5pm throughout December.

carvery dinner in the Christmas themed function suite. The price also includes all the extras – fun novelties, crackers and balloons, plus free-flowing wine, bottled beers and soft drinks with dinner. After the meal the party continues with a DJ and dancing; the Feathers ‘Famous Finale’ and an all-inclusive bar. Dine and disco nights from £24.95 per person; all-inclusive carvery nights from £34.95. If you can’t party in December there are January Christmas Parties available too. Call 01244 571648 or visit www.feathers.uk.com

Mill Hotel and Spa, Cheshire

Celebrate Christmas on the water this year, with one of the Mill’s Christmas Fayre Dinner Cruises. From 21st

Party Nights, from £39.50 per person. Murder Mystery meals, £36.50 per person. Christmas lunch, from £20 for two courses; afternoon tea, £25 for two people. Visit www.lionquays.co.uk or call 01691 684300.

Llyndir Hall, Cheshire

Whatever type of Christmas party you’re planning, Llyndir Hall has a range of packages to suit all tastes and budgets, from a festive lunch for four in the restaurant to a private corporate extravaganza for 120 and everything in between. The hotel’s all-inclusive events include unlimited bucks fizz and canapés on arrival and a substantial three-course

Saturday in December. The dress code for the Quay’s Christmas Hollywood Party Nights is a black and white theme. Arrive in style at 7.30pm for a VIP red carpet entrance and be greeted by the Quay’s show girls. Enjoy a welcome cocktail followed by a three-course festive dinner including coffee and mints in the Castle Suite. The hotel’s resident singer will be helping you get into the Christmas spirit throughout the evening. Prices start from £33.95 per person. Call 01492 564160 or visit www.quayhotel.co.uk

The Mill Hotel, Cheshire

November until 22nd December there are nightly events on the hotel’s Broad Beam Cruiser, with a four-course dinner and licensed bar. And on Fridays and Saturdays it’s Dine and Dance night, so on your return to the hotel you’ll continue partying until 1am in the hotel’s Canaletto Restaurant. The hotel also offers daily Christmas Fayre Lunch Cruises and, if you prefer to party on solid ground, there are Christmas lunches and dinners on offer in the Canaletto Restaurant, too. Christmas Lunch Cruise £23 per person; Christmas Dinner Cruise from £28.50 per person; Dine & Dance nights from £30 per person. Visit www.millhotel.com or call 01244 350035 for more information.

Quay Hotel and Spa, Conwy Llyndir Hall, Cheshire

Quay Hotel and Spa, Conwy

Dress up in your best gladrags and escape to the glamorous world of Hollywood, every Thursday, Friday and

68 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

Rossett Hall Hotel, Wrexham

If you want your Christmas party to include some top-quality live entertainment, Rossett Hall’s Festive Tribute Nights could be just what you’re looking for. On Friday and Saturday nights from 29th November until 20th Decembercthere’s a range of acts to choose from, including a Soul and Swing Show, a Take That Tribute and an Abba Tribute. Of course, your evening includes the three-course Festive Time Menu, plus a DJ and dancing until 12.30am. Rossett Hall are also offering Rossett Hall, near Wrexham

Christmas Parties

Fawlty and Manuel, be entertained by a Tina Turner tribute, help to solve a Murder Mystery or spend the evening with a Michael Bublé tribute. All include a three-course menu with coffee and mince pies, followed by a disco.

three-course festive lunches for those who prefer a daytime celebration. Festive Tribute Nights from £22.95 per person; Festive lunch £15.95 per person. Visit www. rossetthallhotel.co.uk or call 01244 571000.

Red Rooster Discos, Denbighshire

Celebrate Christmas in vintage style at a Christmas Tea Dance from Red Rooster Discos and Beeutiful Day-Events. The dances take place at Oriel Country House Hotel in St Asaph where the room will be decorated with vintage crockery and bunting, staff will be dressed in vintage pinafores and steps will be carefully choreographed by Danceability. The first event is an Afternoon Tea with three hours of music from the 40s, 50s and possibly 60s, and the second is a three-course sit down Christmas Dinner to be followed by dancing and music from the same eras. If you’ve already got your party planned, but need a disco, Red Rooster Discos can decorate your room with themed decor, provide guest request cards for your choice of songs and provide atmospheric lighting, games and quizzes as well as, of course, great music.

Themed party nights take place on 5th & 6th and 12th & 13th December; from £28.95 per person. Visit www.handpickedhotels.co.uk or call 0845 072 7550.

Willington Hall, Cheshire Willington Hall, Cheshire Ruthin Castle, Denbishire

celebration at historic Ruthin Castle. Festive party nights run on selected dates in November and December, with a three-course meal plus coffee and mince pies, and dancing to a DJ throughout the evening. Private party nights are also available. If you prefer an earlier celebration Christmas lunches and afternoon teas are also available. Festive party nights from £36.95 per person; lunch from £19.95, and afternoon tea, £19.95. Visit www.ruthincastle.co.uk or call 01824 702664 to find out more.

Visit www.redroosterdiscos.co.uk or call 01745 890367 to find out what they can do.

Ruthin Castle, Denbighshire Bring a medieval touch to your Christmas party this year, with a

Seiont Manor, Gwynedd

Oriel Country House Hotel, St Asaph

There is an array of Christmas party options to choose from at Seiont Manor this year. Each festive evening takes a paricular theme, and you can choose to have your Christmas party with Basil

70 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

Christmas Party Nights at this DID YOU lovely hotel, KNOW? A recen originally built t study re vealed that more in 1829 as a than 750 ,0 Brits hav private home, e slept in 00 are proving the office th e day aft very popular er over-ind u lging at and are filling up a w ork party fast. The evening … includes a threecourse festive dinner plus coffee and mince pies, with Christmas crackers and festive novelties thrown in. Once the dining is over and you’ve let your dinner go down, you can work off some of the calories consumed by dancing the night away with the hotel’s resident DJ. Party nights £32.50 per person. Willington Hall can also cater for office parties, for more information visit www.willingtonhall.co.uk or call 01829 752321.

CARDEN PARK

Set in a 1,000-acre estate in the Cheshire countryside, Carden Park is a great location for a a relaxing and luxurious break. Celebrate Christmas from £335 per adult for a two-night stay, or £399 for three nights. Price includes dinner bed and breakfast, plus a drinks reception on Christmas Eve, three-course Christmas lunch (with visit from Father Christmas) and a light evening buffet on Christmas Day. www.cardenpark.co.uk 01829 731000

CAE MOR HOTEL

Cae Mor is in the town of Llandudno, opposite the promenade and next to Venue Cymru. Choose from a two-night package from 24th December, for £200 for a double room, or stay through Boxing Day for a three-night deal from £270. Prices include Christmas Eve dinner, five course Christmas Day luncheon, and a Christmas night buffet, plus a free gift for all guests. www.caemorhotel.co.uk 01492 878101

THE QUAY HOTEL AND SPA

The Quay is a sophisticated hotel on the Conwy Estuary just a short distance from the town of Conwy itself. Enjoy a relaxing three-night break from Christmas Eve, including Christmas Day lunch, and even a gift from Father Christmas, full use of the health and leisure facilities, plus a whole host of added extras. From £425 per person. www.quayhotel.co.uk 01492 564100

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON

The elegant DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Spa offers luxurious accommodation only a few minutes from Chester city centre. Enjoy a threenight stay from Christmas Eve for £338 per couple. The price includes a three-course dinner on Christmas Eve, full English breakfast on Christmas morning, Christmas Day lunch, evening supper and Boxing Day breakfast. www.doubletreechester.co.uk 01244 408800

ABODE HOTEL, CHESTER

This strikingly modern hotel overlooking the city and racecourse offers a ‘Forget the Taxi’ rate for December, where you can stay in one of the beautifully appointed rooms with 10 per cent off their best available rates. Stay for £120 per room per night at Christmas, and £185 at New Year. www.abodechester.co.uk 01244 347000

NANTEOS MANSION

A beautiful Georgian mansion near Aberystwyth, Nanteos blends old and new with accommodation in 14 luxury en-suite bedrooms and a fourbedroom Mews House. Relax with a two-night break over Christmas, from £475 per person for dinner, bed and breakfast. The package also includes afternoon tea on Christmas Eve, a sumptuous Christmas Day lunch, including roast goose, and seasonal buffet on Christmas night. www.nanteos.com 01970 600522

THE ROYAL OAK HOTEL

The Royal Oak Hotel is set in the idyllic village of Betws y Coed in the magnificent Snowdonia mountain range. Stay for New Year from £420 per double room for two nights including a champagne reception, and a five-course gala dinner plus cabaret and disco on New Year’s Eve. www.royaloakhotel.net 01690 710219

SEIONT MANOR

Situated in 150 acres of grounds, Seiont Manor near Snowdonia boasts three AA red stars and an AA two rosette restaurant. Choose from a twonight stay over Christmas from £310 per person or make it three nights for £440. Price includes dinner, bed and breakfast, plus traditional Christmas Day lunch and a blind wine tasting challenge on Christmas evening. www.handpickedhotels.co.uk 0845 072 7550

72 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

ALBRIGHT HUSSEY

Set in more than four acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, this grade II listed classic country house has four AA stars. With bed and breakfast from just £59 per night, Christmas is a great time to treat yourself to a truly luxurious break in the Shropshire countryside. www.albrighthussey.co.uk 01939 290523

MELLINGTON HALL

Set in 280 acres of gardens and parkland, Mellington Hall Country House Hotel has a long and fascinating history. For just £299.95 per person, spend the nights of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at Mellington Hall, with the staff taking care of your every need. The price includes a Christmas Eve buffet, a leisurely Christmas Day breakfast and a four-course Christmas lunch. www.mellingtonhallhotel.com 01588 620456

CHATEAU RHIANFA

Chateau Rhianfa in Anglesey is a stunning grade II listed venue overlooking the Menai Strait. Christmas breaks start from £500 per person for three nights from Christmas Eve, including a falconry display on Christmas Day followed by a traditional Christmas lunch, plus full Welsh breakfast each day. www.chateaurhianfa.com 01248 713656

RUTHIN CASTLE

Ruthin Castle is a magical Welsh hotel with royal heritage stretching back over 700 years, and offers unusually themed accommodation. Choose from a two- or three-night Christmas escape from £299 and £420 per person respectively. Price includes dinner, bed and breakfast, a welcome glass of mulled wine on arrival and carols around the tree, Christmas lunch and Boxing Day dinner. www.ruthincastle.co.uk 01824 702664

Christmas

Escapes Why not let somebody else do all the hard work this Christmas? We’ve found some fabulous festive offers so you can put your feet up and wait for Santa!

LAKE VYRNWY

Situated on the hillside above spectacular Lake Vyrnwy this multi-award-winning country house hotel in north Wales has stunning views over unspoilt countryside and luxury four-star accommodation. Spend three nights over Christmas at Lake Vyrnwy, from £560 per person, arriving 24th December and departing on the 27th. The luxury package inludes breakfasts, lunches and afternoon teas, dinners and cocktail receptions, a traditional Christmas luncheon, a day of coutnry pursuits, a formal dinner on Boxing night and complimentary use of spa facilities. www.lakevyrnwy.com 01691 870692

WYNNSTAY HOTEL, OSWESTRY

The privately owned Wynnstay Hotel is set in the heart of Oswestry, and offers 34 stylish bedrooms plus fine dining, a spa and a gym. Have a two-night Christmas Break special at £183 per person, from Christmas Eve to Boxing Day. The rice includes afternoon tea on arrival with glass of Prosecco, and a three-cours dinner; full English or continental breakfast on Chrstmas Day, plus fourcourse gourmet Christmas lunch (including a visit from Father Christmas) and a hearty Boxing Day breakfast before departure. www.wynnstayhotel.com 01691 655261

GROSVENOR PULFORD HOTEL AND SPA

Situated within its own beautifully landscaped grounds, Grosvenor Pulford Hotel and spa is just a five-minute drive from Chester’s historic city centre, and a stone’s throw from the border of Wales. Enjoy a three-night package over Christmas for just £399 per person. The price includes dinner, bed and breakfast from Christmas Eve onwards, plus a traditional four course Christmas lunch and a visit from Santa on Christmas Day, and a special musical evening on Boxing day. Plus add an extra night for free when you book on the Festive Foodie Package for £65 per person. www.grosvenorpulfordhotel.co.uk 01244 570560

CHAINBRIDGE HOTEL, LLANGOLLEN

The Chainbridge is in a stunning location, on the banks of the River Dee, overlooking the historic chain bridge and opposite the photogenic Berwyn Station on the Llangollen Steam Railway line. Book a three-night festive package from £275 per person and enjoy mulled wine and mince pies on arrival on Christmas Eve and a three-course evening meal. On Chrstimas Day you’ll be served with a five-course champagne lunch with a buffet meal that evening. On Boxing Day you’ll enjoy a three-course seasonal set menu. Breakfast is included. www.chainbridgehotel.com 01978 860215

ROWTON HALL COUNTRY HOUSE & SPA

Just minutes from Chester city centre, but nestled in secluded grounds, Rowton Hall is a historic venue with a relaxed, friendly feel. Take a twonight Christmas break from £295 per person, including a full afternoon tea on your arrival on Christmas Eve, a Champagne and canape reception and a five-course gourmet dinner. On Christmas Day you’ll enjoy a leisurely breakfast, Christmas lunch and entertainments in the afternoon, plus a buffet dinner. The price includes breakfast on Boxing Day. www.rowtonhallhotel.co.uk 01244 335262

LLYNDIR HALL

Just over the Welsh border set in glorious north Wales countryside and minutes from Chester, Llyndir Hall is in an idyllic setting for relaxation. Indulge in a three-night Christmas break from £319 per person. As well as bed, breakfast and dinner, the package includes a four-course candlelit dinner on Christmas Eve, a five-course Christmas lunch on Christmas Day plus a yuletide buffet and special entertainment for the evening, and a buffet lunch and trip to the panto on Boxing Day, followed by a gala dinner with live entertainment. www.feathers.com/llyndir-hall-hotel-spa 01244 571648

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 73

Food tasters what tasty treats have we got in store For you this winter?

shop local for Christmas Bellis’s is an independent, family-run business near wrexham, with a farm shop, restaurant, garden centre and much more all on site. the farm shop stocks a variety of locally sourced produce and tasty treats for foodies, from daily essentials such as free range eggs and freshly baked bread, to a wide range of speciality goods including cheeses, flavoured oils and local beers. the family take great pride in supplying their customers with fresh fruit and vegetables from their working farm – from field to shop in a matter of minutes with zero food miles. and with Jamie ward’s traditional Family Butchers a recent addition to the shop, you can now get everything you need for your Christmas meal in one place. while you’re at Bellis’s, you can also do a little shopping in the garden centre, and try the home-cooked menu in the on-site strawberry Inject a little luxury into Christmas Fields restaurant. the produce is sourced Bellis’s have been this year, by treating yourself to locally whenever possible, using fruit and vegetables grown growing strawberries something special from Anne’s right there on the farm when in season. Patisserie. Husband and wife team since 1860, when to celebrate the festive season, the restaurant at Bellis’s is Anne and James have been offering Christmas lunches from 8th-19th December (booking Charles Bellis planted supplying customers in north Wales essential), and santa and his reindeer will be arriving at the farm a strawberry called with fine cakes and desserts since on 28th november, when there’ll be late night shopping, a brass Black Prince 2003, and have recently opened a new band, tastings and other festive treats. santa will then be in his shop at Trelawney Square in Flint – so grotto every weekend until 21st December, all in aid of nightingale house hospice. Visit www.bellisbrothers.co.uk or call 01829 272031. you can go along and see and choose from the

Perfect patisserie

DID YOU KNOW?

mouthwatering range on offer. The patisserie also houses a small coffee shop, where you can warm up with a speciality teas or fairtrade coffee and try some of the exquisite cakes – from sophisticated delights such as triple chocolate truffle torte and tart au citron to Anne and James’s luxurious take on traditional favourites like sticky date and ginger pud and cherry Bakewell tart. ‘We always wanted to have our own shop,’ says Anne, ‘somewhere unique that offers more than just great cakes – a place where people will come, and leave with a double-happy feeling!’ All of the cakes and desserts are handmade by Ann, James and their team, using local Welsh ingredients – including Welsh butter and dairy cream, and free range eggs – and traditional baking methods. With Christmas coming, Anne and James will be creating special handmade Christmas cakes and puddings, and their pre-order service means you can call up, tell them what you’d like and they will make it especially for you. Visit www.annes patisserie.co.uk or call them on 01352 734000.

Did you think I’d crumble…? The classic apple crumble is a simple and satisfying pudding, and the addition of plums brings extra flavour and turns the juice a glorious purple. Making crumble with melted butter is quicker and easier. This recipe from Mornflake is a great way to make the most of autumn fruits.

APPle & PluM OATy CruMBle Serves 4 generously For the crumble 100g plain flour 110g white caster sugar 60g Mornflake organic oats 100g unsalted butter – melted

For the filling 500g apples – peeled, cored and chopped 4 ripe plums – chopped and stones removed 4 tsp white caster sugar

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4. Put the flour, sugar and oats into a bowl, add the melted butter and mix well until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. 2. Arrange the fruit into a 24cm oven-proof dish, or individual dishes, then sprinkle with sugar. Top with the crumble and bake for 35-40 minutes until the crumble has browned and the fruit is bubbling. Serve with custard or cream.

Cook’s Tip

Crumble topping mixture freezes well, and can be used from frozen. Make a double batch or freeze any spare to save time

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 75

NORTH WALES Anglesey: Ysgol David Hughes. 3rd Saturday of every month. www.angleseyfarmersmarket.co.uk 01248 490 213 Celyn Farmer’s Market, Mold: The Church Hall, King Street. First and third Saturday of every month. www.celynfarmersmarket.co.uk. 07810 637233 Colwyn Bay: Bay View Shopping Centre. Every Thursday. 01492 680209 Conwy: Conwy RSPB Reserve. Last Wednesday of every month. 01492 584091 Denbigh: Town Hall. Every Friday, 9:15am-12:15pm. www.country-markets.co.uk Llangollen: Town Hall. Every Friday, 9:45am-12:30pm. www.country-markets.co.uk Porthmadog: Y Ganolfan, near the harbour. Last Saturday of the month. www.marchnadporthmadog market.co.uk Rhos on Sea: Methodist Church Hall. Every Friday, 10-12pm. www.country-markets.co.uk Ruthin: Market Hall. Every Friday, 8:30am-12pm. www.country-markets.co.uk Rossett: Village Hall. First Saturday of every month, 10am – 12pm. www.country-markets.co.uk People’s Market, Wrexham: Every Friday, 9am-2pm. www.country-markets.co.uk

Talk of the Townhouse

MiD WALES Aberystwyth: North Parade. First and third Saturday of every month. 01970 633066 Brecon: Market Hall. Second Saturday of every month. 01982 560240 Welshpool: Coed-y-Dinas. First Saturday of each month

Oswestry gourmands are very excited about the news that one of Britain’s most acclaimed chefs, Michael Caines MBE, is involved in the town’s newly opened Townhouse restaurant. Michael has been supporting and advising the new bar and restaurant in the lead-up to its grand opening before Christmas, including overseeing the appointment of key staff, kitchen design and layout, menu creation and online reservation systems among other things. The venue will be known as The Townhouse and branded ‘a restaurant by Michael Caines’. Mike Scott and Ollie Jackson, owners of The Townhouse, say: ‘We are delighted that Michael and his team are sharing their experience and expertise with us. Michael’s team will be overseeing the creation of all menus, including some of our own signature dishes, designed to complement The Townhouse’s informal, yet sharp interior design, and fit with the local market using the best local ingredients. This is really big news for Oswestry and we hope that it will be a massive boost for the town’s restaurants as a ‘restaurant by Michael Caines’ will really put Oswestry on the food map.’ Michael Caines says: ‘The Townhouse is a really exciting project to have become involved with and we will help Mike and Ollie to achieve their goal of an affordable and stylish restaurant in their home town that serves great food in a relaxed and informal atmosphere.’ Visit online at www. townhouseoswestry.com or call 01691 659499.

All the fun of the fair Apley Farm Shop near Bridgnorth is holding its annual Christmas Food & Drinks Fair on Advent Sunday, 30th November, showcasing delicious food and drinks from some of Shropshire’s finest producers. The shop will be brimming with delicious produce, cheerful Christmas lights and Christmas decorations. Apley Christmas hampers can be tailor made (you choose, they pack) or bought pre-prepared. Head baker Julie (below) has been busy baking Christmas puddings, Christmas cakes and Apley mince pies, while the head gardener has been tending the Apley crops of Christmas Day lunch vegetables. Christmas orders will be open on the butcher and delicatessen counters, where you can find loads of delicious food including turkey, hams, bacon, stuffing, Apley game and of course the recently revived Apley Cheese. Visitors on the day can enjoy mulled wine, mince pies and hot turkey and cranberry rolls served in the courtyard, while a quintet of saxophonists from the Abraham Darby Academy play. Younger visitors can post their letters to Father Christmas and see him arrive on his sleigh at his grotto at 10am. You can also find all you need for presents and Christmas stockings in the farm shop and the courtyard shops – Alley Katz, Elizabeth Beckett Skincare and Lottie’s. Visit www.apleyfarmshop.co.uk or call 01952 730345.

CHESHiRE Celyn Farmer’s Market, Chester: Grosvenor Garden Centre. Second Friday of every month. The first farmers’ www.celynfarmersmarket.co.uk, 07810 637233 market in the UK was Chester: Town Hall Square. Third established in Bath, Saturday of every month. 01244 402340 Somerset, in Wirral: New Ferry Village Hall. September 1997 Second Saturday of every month. 0151 643 1393 Farndon: Chapel House, Church Street. Every Wednesday, 9am11:30am Frodsham: The Bear’s Paw, Main Street. butchers Every Thursday, 9am-12pm d wholesale ng online an Wales, ni in Nantwich: Market Hall, rth w dno ar in h Aw near Cricciet d se Beef Churchyardside. Every Thursday, ba sh , el lyn W Bwyd ured in 21-day mat ct, Bwydlyn offer 8am-12pm e specialists fa ar in – Tattenhall: Barbour Institute. r Welsh lamb which can and superio fresh meats Every Friday, 9:15am-11:15am nal range of io door. pt ur ce yo ex to an ct Malpas: Jubilee hall. Third Satruday of next day, dire and beef is be delivered b m every month. 01948 662462. la sh el ’s W s and All of Bwydlyn Farndon: Sports & Social Club. First lected farmer d ced from se team of skille is to m ai r Sunday of every month. 9.30amei th carefully sour – e. Bwydlyn’s aged es uc al ck W od pa pr ut en m ho iu th ug em d it is 12.30pm. 01829 270032 suppliers thro ith the best pr best red cuts, an

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rd Direct to you

SHROPSHiRE Oswestry: The Bailey Head. Last Friday of every month. 01691 680222 Bishop’s Castle: Town Hall and Market Square. Third Saturday of every month, 01588 638141 Ludlow: Castle Square. Second and fourth Thursday of every month. 01584 872043 Shrewsbury: The Square. First Friday of every month. 01743 792547 Whitchurch: In the bullring, first Saturday of every month. 01948 665761 Craven Arms: Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre. First Saturday of every month.

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FOUR OF THE BEST

Deli delights 1403

Pay a visit to Battlefield 1403, on the Albrighton Estate near Shrewsbury, and you will find everything you need for your Christmas feast. The delicatessen Local microbreweries in the region are doing very well, is packed with pies, pastries and cooked meats, and now is a good time to try their winter beers. From dark all of which can be pre-ordered for collection stouts to hoppy bitters, we’ve tried some of the best… nearer the big day, plus beautiful cheeses to suit all tastes sourced from all over Britain, wAen brewery This small brewery in Llanidloes is run by one of the including Stilton and Shropshire Blue – both growing number of ‘brewsters’ (female brewers) in the synonymous with Christmas. The team can also country, Sue Hayward. We tried the Snowball, a dark, provide larger sized pork pies, glazed hams and chocolatey stout with an interesting and complex flavour, whole square catering quiches for Christmas and the Chilli Plum Porter (6.1%), which has a slightly and the New Year. sweet initial taste and then sets your gums tingling from Meanwhile, the butchers can provide a wide the chilli. Visit www.thewaenbrewery.co.uk array of quality meats to suit every pocket. PurPle Moose ‘We are again expecting ribs of beef to be a The ‘Mws Piws’ brewery in Porthmadog has a few popular alternative to turkey this year,’ winter beers on its menu. We tried the Myrica says Chris Darlington of Battlefield. Gale (4.1%), a stout made with lovely, ‘If this is your preferred choice, fragrant bog myrtle. This is not as rich as some stouts, making it more drinkable. It did you Know? we’d ask customers to please give has a lovely sweet scent and a slightly the butchery as much notice as Beer contains high perfumed flavour. Dark Side of the Moose (4.6%), meanwhile, is a rich, levels of silicon, which possible as they mature their beef ribs for up to six weeks.’ dark, bitter ale with a burnt, tarry is a key ingredient for The shop will also be sourcing flavour. Visit www.purplemoose.co.uk strengthening bones. turkeys, geese, capon and ducks sTonehouse brewery from local suppliers, including Make mine a pint! This Oswestry-based brewery has many Brisbourne’s geese and turkeys, popular offerings. We tried the Off the Rails and while you’re there you may want (4.8%), which has a traditional sharp, hoppy to pick up some of their Great Taste flavour unlike many of the richer, sweeter strong Award-winning sausagemeat chipolatas, ales around. Visit www.stonehousebrewery.co.uk wrapped in bacon, as the essential side dish. sAndsTone brewery If you order your turkey, goose or beef from This Wrexham-based brewery produces a small range of Battlefield, you will receive a 10 per cent beers that are big on variety. We tried the Postmistress discount voucher for use in January. The shop (4.4% ) a dark, chestnut beer, and the Onyx Dragon (4%) also stocks local seasonal vegetables, including a stout, with a sweet, rounded flavour. Visit www.sandstonebrewery.co.uk potatoes from Ryton Farm, Dorrington, and staff are on hand to help you create a lovely woodlAnds brewing CoMPAny Christmas hamper, a great gift idea for friends, This small brewery produce a good range of beers and family or clients. There is also a licensed, onsite some are particularly suited to colder winter days. We cafe for weary shoppers! tried the New Leaf (4.6%), a rich and malty bitter, and the Redwood (4.9%) which was great – a deep red For more information visit their website at bitter, full of flavour, but with a crisp, refreshing bite. www.battlefield1403.com or call 01939 210905.

Here for the beer!

Visit www.woodlandsbrewery.co.uk

Making a meal of it Maynard’s Farm, at Weston under Redcastle near Shrewsbury, has built a reputation that has spread much further than its home county. The shop, which was started 13 years ago by Rob and Fiona Cunningham, supplies gammon, bacon, sausages, pancetta and black pudding to discerning customers all across the UK, including supermarkets such as the Co-op and Waitrose, and restaurants as far afield as Rick Stein’s in Padstow and Dishoom in London. Don’t worry, though, locals have plenty of opportunity to discover Rob and Fiona’s awardwinning products, including treacle-glazed ham and speciality sausages, at their on-site farm shop. ‘We start taking orders for turkeys from November,’ says Rob, ‘and people also come in to choose festive hamper goodies – cheeses, paté and, of course sausages, ham and bacon. This year, our festive ‘Devils on Horseback’ sausage will return for the second year because of demand. They’re a recipe of pork, prune and smoked bacon – perfect for party canapés as well as Christmas dinners. We also make pigs in blankets and are working on a few extra special products such as a deluxe hotdog sausage.’ For more information visit www.maynardsfarm.co.uk or call 01948 840252.

Local pubs The AlberT, llAndudno This family-friendly food pub prides itself on its selection of real ales, which make a great accompaniment to the hearty meals on offer. There is an ever-changing selection of four ales always on offer, including local brews plus popular beers from around the country. The pub also has a wide selection of wines, and holds a quiz night every Monday. Visit www.albertllandudno.co.uk or call 01492 877188. The red lion, Mold This lively, local community pub has a great, friendly atmosphere and is renowned for its party nights, with live entertainment from bands and singers on Fridays and Saturdays. They also have open mic nights, and offer traditional pub food, made with freshly cooked local ingredients, and served every day including Sunday dinner. For Christmas there are three special menus on offer, including specialities such as lobster, oyster and kangaroo steak. Search ‘red lion mold’ on Facebook or call the pub on 01352 758739. Albion Ale house, Conwy This is a unique pub in that it is owned by four local breweries – Purple Moose, Great Orme, Nant Brewery and Conwy Brewery – and it doesn’t serve meals. Nor does it have a jukebox or a TV. But as well as a great selection of awardwinning real ales from the owning breweries and guests, there’s a wine list created in conjunction with local wine merchants Vinomondo and a selection of spirits and nibbles on offer. This is a pub to ‘get yourself a nice drink, grab some nibbles and take in the atmosphere’. Visit albionalehouse.weebly.com or call 01492 582484. The brynTirion inn, llAndderfel neAr bAlA A traditional, cosy pub, popular with locals and tourists alike. There are always two real ales on, plus a personallyselected wine list. The pub is dog and children friendly, and there’s a great menu with hearty, locally sourced traditional pub meals. The owners pride themselves on their green credentials – check out the vegetable garden on the roof! Visit www.bryntirioninn.co.uk or call 01678 530205.

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 79

FOOD EVENTS

Wine Tasting for Christmas, 19th & 20th November, Tanners, Shrewsbury An interesting mix of affordable and aspirational wines from New and Old world wine regions as well as a selection to complement either your lunch table on Christmas Day or one of the many other festive get-togethers you might have over the season. 6.309pm, cost £22.50. Call 01743 234455 or visit www.tanners-wines.co.uk Winter British Classics Cookery Demonstration, 22nd November, Bodysgallen Hall, Llandudno Enjoy a cookery demonstration from head chef Michael Cheetham, followed by a glass of champagne and a two-course luncheon. Tickets £42.50, visit www. bodysgallen.com

Saturday Kitchen Christmas Special, 22nd November, Bodnant Welsh Food Get your Christmas menu planning off to a great start with some tips and techniques from Dai Chef. Hay on Wye Winter Food Festival, 29th November Limited to just 50 local producers to ensure quality, with entertainment from local brass bands, male voice choirs and folk musicians. Held in the Memorial Car Park. Apley Cookery Club, 6th December This monthly club has a different theme for each session – take along your recipe (cooked and written) to share with members. Free to enter. To find out more, visit www.apleyfarmshop.co.uk Christmas Food & Drink Fair, 14th December, Abergavenny Showcasing exhibitors from Wales, the Marches and further afield. Lots of small-scale producers, plus chef demonstrations, food experts and more. Ninety stalls across four venues, offering everything you need for the best Christmas ever.

Chilly pudding…? For those who aren’t fans of Christmas pud, or who prefer the idea of something a little lighter after a major blow-out on Christmas Day, ice cream makers Chilly Cow have come up with some special festive flavours for the season… and they sound delicious. This family-run company produce their delicious artisan ice cream using milk from their own herd of Brown Swiss cows. As well as the usual eight flavours in the range – Just Chilly Cow, Vanilla, Strawberry Ripple, Chunky Chocolate, Chunky Choc Mint, Honeycomb, Sticky Toffee Fudge and Lemon Meringue – you can now choose from a range of yummy Christmas flavours including Mince Pie, Rhubarb & Ginger, Irish Cream, Cherry Cheesecake and Cranberry Sorbet. Visit the shop at Chilly Cow’s farm at Llanychan, near Ruthin in north Wales. Chilly Cow will be offering gift vouchers and a loyalty card scheme from November, too. The shop is open Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, 11am-4.30pm. Call 07968 993495 or visit www. chillycow.co.uk.

It’s a cracker!

Why not wash your Christmas dinner down with a festive real ale from a local brewery? Wood’s is based on the edge of the Shropshire Hills and is where they brew the very popular Shropshire Lad. Their seasonal brew, Christmas Cracker, is a strong (6%) rich, ruby red ale, full of malty characters that fill the mouth with complex, sweet and dark flavours. It certainly lives up to its name: it’s a cracking beer! Visit www.wood brewery.co.uk to find a local stockist.

Ham it up for Christmas!

Good for food The Inn at Grinshill, Shropshire, has confirmed itself as a great place to eat, with its entry for the second year running into the Good Food Guide – and with a new head chef at the helm. Paul Maders, who trained with Gary Rhodes and has worked with top chefs including Aidan Byrne and Michael Caines, took over the two AA rosette kitchen nine months ago. He has a classical modern style and a passion for seasonal cooking, using local ingredients – even to the extent of establishing a working vegetable plot, herb garden and small orchard to supply the kitchen from plot to plate. Game, including venison, grouse and partridge, are features of his autumn menu, while ‘hogget’, or mutton – once dubbed ‘the food of kings’ – and pheasant will be among his winter additions. ‘Cooking with the seasons means that only the best quality of produce is used, maximising flavour and freshness,’ says Paul. ‘I firmly believe that great food and cooking should be available and affordable to all.’ He has also introduced a new taster menu, giving diners the option of sampling a wider variety of dishes in smaller portions. Visit www.theinnatgrinshill. co.uk or call 01939 220410 for more information.

80 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

If anybody knows about meat, it’s the team at Lewis’s Farm Shop near Wrexham. This family-run business started more than 10 years ago, selling half lambs from the family farm, and all the lamb and beef sold in the shop is still raised on the farm. Owner Mark Lewis says: ‘In fact, I would say about 90 per cent of what we sell is produced on site.’ Lewis’s have expanded into creating the perfect Christmas ham. Their black bacon cured in molasses won the 2014 Welsh Champion Home Cured Bacon award – and now you can also treat yourself to their delicious Black Gammon. Cured in treacle, this ham has a unique taste, with a subtle, dark but sweet flavour. You can buy the gammon joint, ready wrapped and curing, to cook yourself, or buy slices cold over the counter. For Christmas, Lewis’s will be stocking locally reared free-range turkeys; you’ll be able to buy the whole bird, or choose some boneless turkey breast. The kitchen will also be creating a full range of Christmas specials, including cranberry flavoured sausage plaits, speciality pies and homemade Christmas cakes. Visit www.lewisfarmshop.co.uk or call 01978 780852.

Undercover restaurant critic As we always pay our bill, we can give you the unvarnished truth...

Reputed to be the oldest inn in Wales, Ty Mawr in Gwyddelwern near Corwen has sadly lain empty for the last seven years. Now, however, the doors have been reopened by a seasoned restaurateur, who has run establishments in Spain for the past six years, so we were keen to run our unbiased gaze over it. The building is impressive, with large beams and open heritage woodwork lending it an old-world charm. The slate floor and an eclectic mix of old-style chairs and pews add to the atmosphere. A large fireplace will be lit in the winter months but the central heating is sufficient anyway. Only the large blackboards hung behind the bar spoilt the overall ambience. The drinks and food on offer reflect the new proprietor’s determination to source as much produce as possible locally. Welsh beers include Ynys Mon (4.5%) from Great Orme and a less strong Village Bitter (3.9%) from the very nearby Buzzard Brewery at Rhewl. The wild berry Rekorderlig cider is expensive but very refreshing. The menu is somewhat pricey with steak and ale pie at £13.95, single cheeseburger £10.50 and lamb shank at £14.95, reflecting the higher cost of quality local ingredients. The presentation of dishes needs improving but there was no doubt about the quality of the food. In my view, Ty Mawr needs to provide a cheese option on the dessert menu to feature the many tasty local artisan cheeses. This new venture shows promise and the inconsistencies will be resolved, by the time you read this review it will be worth a visit. Ty Mawr, Gwyddelwern, nr Corwen, Denbighshire LL21 9DH, tel 01490 413414

THE

INN AT GRINSHILL A historic Georgian inn with award-winning food and accommodation set in the heart of the Shropshire countryside and on the route of The Shropshire Way.

AWARD WINNING BACON & SAUSAGES

Traditional Pork Sausages, Cracked Black Pepper Sausages & Smoked Pancetta

Seasonal menus, AA four gold-star accommodation, celebrations. Superfood Hero

We have fabulous Christmas party menus. Join us for a memorable New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve dinner in the company of the very talented musician-songwriter Albert Jones. See us in the Good Food Guide, Good Hotel Guide and the Michelin Eating Out in Pubs Guide.

Orders now being taken for Christmas Hams, Turkeys & Geese

Walkers, families and canine companions - all are welcome!

Place your order by telephone or visit our Farm Shop and pick up some of our fabulous Christmas goodies at the same time. Turkeys & Geese for collection only. Gammons/Hams available by mail order.

www.theinnatgrinshill.co.uk 01939 220410 | info@theinnatgrinshill.co.uk

Our vouchers for a full dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s course on butchery & curing make a fantastic and unusual present for Christmas.

High Street, Grinshill, nr Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY4 3BL

Telephone: 01948 840252 Email: sales@maynardsfarm.co.uk

The BrynTirion Inn

Warm, Friendly and Welcoming Traditional family run Inn with homecooked food and real ales, a warm welcome and roaring fires. Function room available. Dogs welcome. Set in stunning countryside, ideally suited for Snowdonia Llandderfel, Bala, Gwynedd, LL23 7RA Tel: 01678 530205 www.bryntirioninn.co.uk

Festive feasts Make your Christmas day dinner something truly special this year with these brilliant ideas for dishes with a difference from our local chefs and producers

Seared smoky pistachio duck

Luxury Cranberry Sauce By nigel Jones, chef patron at nanteos Mansion Nanteos is a Georgian Mansion hotel, home to the Nightingale Restaurant which serves light lunch and dinner to residents and non-residents in a refined yet relaxed atmosphere

By Martin McKee, head chef at Apley Farm Apley Farm is part of the Apley Estate in Shropshire, specialising in local and regional food, and offering fresh quality produce from the estate, its tenant farms, and local suppliers and producers. Also on site is the Creamery Cafe and Restaurant, a converted barn where you can relax and enjoy dishes toP made from local ingredients.

IngredIents 6 tbsp orange zest ½ tsp finely grated lime zest 1 Star Anise 450ml bottled / spring water 400g caster sugar

150ml freshly squeezed orange juice 1 tbsp fresh lime juice 400g cranberries 50ml Cointreau or similar orange liqueur

Method 1. Place the Star anise, orange and lime zests and water in a small saucepan. Bring to the boil, simmer gently for 15 minutes. Drain, discard the star anise. Reserve the zest and approximately 100ml of the liquid. 2. Add the 100ml of reserved liquid to the sugar, orange juice and lime juice. Without covering, bring to boil then reduce heat and simmer for three minutes, making sure that you stir often. 3. Add the cranberries; increase heat until the mix begins to boil and then lower to a simmer until about half of the cranberries have popped and a dribble of the liquor sauce sets on a cold plate. You do not want all of the cranberries ‘When zesting citrus to burst as this will make the sauce mushier than it should be. fruits, take care not to 4. Remove from heat, stir in Cointreau. Pour into sterilised jars leaving a 10ml include the underlying space from the top. Put lids on to jars, and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Or pour into a bowl, cover and refrigerate until required (it will white pith.’ Nigel Jones, keep for three days in this way). Warm prior to serving. Nanteos, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, www.nanteos.com, 01970 600522 Nanteos Mansion

tIP

IngredIents 4 duck breasts, weighing 180–200g each 4 slices smoked back bacon 40g shelled pistachios 2 tbsp fennel seeds 2 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper 1 tsp coarse sea salt

Method 1. Cook bacon until lightly crisp and rest on paper towel. 2. Diagonally cross score the fat on the duck breast until you touch the meat (don’t cut into the meat) 3. Once cooled, place bacon, pistachios, fennel seeds, cumin, salt and pepper into a blender and blend until a coarse mixture is achieved. 4. Rub the mixture into the duck fat, cover with clingfilm and refrigerate for two hours. 5. Warm a heavy-based pan on a medium heat on the stove. Once the pan is hot enough, place the duck breasts skin side down and brown the fat for 3 minutes, turn over and cook for a further 3 minutes. Remove duck and keep in a warm place. 6. Serve with braised red cabbage, fondant potatoes and your home-made gravy of choice – or you can make a full bodied red wine liqueur using two-thirds of a bottle of red wine, two finely diced banana shallots and half a bulb of garlic, minced. 7. Reduce these together with some fresh hard or soft herbs and add the juice from your duck. Once reduced by three quarters, finish with brown sugar. Apley Farm Shop, Norton, Shropshire, www.apleyfarmshop.co.uk, 01952 730345

Prune and Chestnut Stuffing By Brisbourne geese

Brisbourne Geese rear geese and turkeys, all on farm. The birds are hatched in the spring and are fed on an additive free cereal diet. IngredIents 500g (1lb) prunes, pitted 220g (8oz) port 1kg (2lb) fresh chestnuts 2 tbsp butter 1 onion, chopped

2 cloves of garlic, chopped 6 stalks of celery, chopped 4 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method 1. Soak the prunes for one hour in the port. 2. Meanwhile prepare the chestnuts. Make a slit in the top of each one with a sharp knife. Put them in boiling water and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove a few at a time with a slotted spoon. Wearing clean rubber gloves to protect your fingers, slip off the outer and inner skins. Place the chestnuts in a large bowl. 3. Melt the butter in a large pan and add the onion, garlic and celery. Cook without browning until the onion has softened. 4. Add the chestnuts and prunes with the port they have been soaking in and simmer gently for 30 minutes. 5. Stir in the parsley, season with salt and pepper, and stuff the mixture into the goose cavity. Sew up the cavity. Brisbourne Geese, Nesscliffe, Shropshire, www.brisbournegeese.co.uk, 01743 741672 November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 83

FESTIVE FEASTS

Boutique bouquet We taLk to PeteR MinshuLL, PRoPRietoR oF CLeaR BLaCk Wine in GResFoRd, neaR WRexhaM Peter says: ‘It’s the smart choice to come to an independent wine merchants like ours. Because we’re not driven by big overheads like the supermarkets, we can champion the independent, boutique growers and wine producers throughout the world, some of whom produce fantastic wine which is not picked up by the big retailers. Readers should look out for an exciting new development for Gresford – we’ll be adding wine tasting – customers can pop in and sample different wines by the glass, a great way to try before you buy.’ Here are Peter’s recommended wines for Christmas and New Year: sPArkLInG wIne j saurus sparkling wine, Patagonia Argentina £14.45 A blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir produced in the same way as French Champagne. j hostomme Blanc de Blanc Grand Cru £29.95 100% Chardonnay this is a must for Christmas Day . whItes j emiliana reserva riesling £ 8.95 Bright lime and grapefruit pith nose, citrus oil and a hint of diesel. The palate has a limey richness, with minerality and a lovely mouth-watering lime zest finish. Food match: perfect for poached river fish, as well as strong mature cheeses. j Chamonix Unoaked £11.45 This unoaked Chardonnay allows the fruit to show itself and leaving it on the lees for four months gives an added depth of flavour. Fresh limey-citrus and floral aromas, with underlying tropical fruit and melon flavours. Rich, full palate with a long, well balanced finish. reds j Boheme salento Primitivo £7.99 On the nose rich aromas of plum and black cherry and on the palate well balanced wine with a velvety texture, and intense black forest and damson fruits, very popular in the shop. Great with any red meat and game. j Karl Johner Pinot Noir 2008 £17.95 A fantastic Pinot Noir from Germany, all the flavours of a good French burgundy at half the price. Delicate dark berries and wild cherry, underlined with great spice. Food match: wild venison or game. j Aglianico del Vulture Riserva 2012 Basilicata, Italy £23.95 One of the most popular wines in our shop and great with game, a real replacement for the overpriced Claret. j Strandveld The Navigator 2011, Elim South Africa £20.95 A blend of Shiraz, Grenache, Mourvedre and Viognier. This blend is the same as the Chateauneuf du Pape from France, and fantastic with red meats. dessert wInes j Grant Burge 10 year old Tawny, Barossa Valley South Australia. £20.95 A fantastic dessert wine, which can only be described as ‘Christmas pudding in a bottle’. j Campbells Topaque Rutherglen Victoria Australia £12.95 A wine that will be a perfect partner with fresh fruit, sticky date pudding or freshly brewed coffee and fine chocolates. www.clearblackwine.com 17 Chester Road, Wrexham, LL12 8NB 01978 852237

Cutting Pie By Tom Hunt from Ludlow Food Centre Ludlow Food Centre offers a food shopping experience that brings together farming, food production and retailing into one whole. The shop has a dairy, butchery and bakery plus kitchen, with a huge range of expertise and advice on offer. The vast variety of flavours that pack your fridge on Boxing Day can’t be ignored and why should they be? Some of the best food is made with leftovers. If Christmas is the season of leftovers then it only seems fitting that we have a Christmas pie. Not a conventional pie like steak and ale or game but a ‘Cutting Pie’. MeTHod All you have to do is layer up leftover turkey, ham, stuffing, cranberry sauce and anything else you fancy. Make, or buy, some pastry to line a bread tin, put in the ingredients, add a pastry top and fill the gaps with jelly before baking. Simple but amazingly good. Have a go, or if you’re feeling lazy come and see us! Ludlow Food Centre, Shropshire, www.ludlowfoodcentre.co.uk, 01584 856000

Partridge & Pear By Paul Maders, head chef at the Inn at Grinshill The Inn at Grinshill is ‘a country inn with accomplished cooking’, with a two AA rosette kitchen. A Georgian gem with heaps of period charm, the inn has a crackling fire and comfy leather sofas in the bar, with a graceful, modern restaurant for a fine but relaxed dining experience. InGredIents (serves 4) 4 whole partridges 6 conference pears 100ml red wine 1tsp sugar 400ml chicken stock

4 sprigs thyme 1 bay leaf 100g butter 1 clove garlic salt and pepper

Method 1. Remove the partridge legs by cutting down between the thigh and breast, then remove the breast. You can ask the butcher to do this for you. Put the breast to one side. 2. Lightly salt the legs and simmer in a deep pan half-filled with oil for an hour on a low heat. Remove from the oil and allow to cool. 3. Roast the partridge carcasses on a high heat until golden brown. Remove and deglaze the tray with the red wine, then pour into large saucepan with the roasted carcasses, chicken stock, thyme, bay and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil skimming off any surface fat. Reduce and pass through a fine strainer. Finish with a knob of butter, salt and pepper to form a sauce. 4. While still warm, pick off the meat from the legs, season with salt and pepper. Form four balls from the meat and coat with breadcrumbs. Place in the fridge for later. 5. Peel the pears, cut them into spheres with a melon baller and put to one side. 6. Chop the remaining pear, place in a pan with a teaspoon of sugar and cook until tender. Place in a blender and blend to a fine puree. 7. Heat the pear balls on a tray in a hot oven for 5 minutes. Deep-fry the breaded legs. Warm through the pear puree and sauce. Pan fry the partridge breasts until golden brown on the outside while remaining pink in the centre. Rest the meat before cutting the breast in two to serve. 8. Serve with winter vegetables, red cabbage and fondant potato. The Inn at Grinshill, near Wem, Shropshire, www.theinnatgrinshill.co.uk, 01939 220410

Christmas cheese selection

By Porter’s, Llangollen

Porter’s Delicatessen in Llangollen is a foodie’s paradise, offering a huge variety of cheeses, wine, olives, meats, indulgent preserves and liqueurs, plus knowledgeable staff to help you choose. APPLeBy’s CheshIre The last traditionally made clothbound unpasteurised Cheshire; Appleby’s is less acidic than most Cheshire cheese and is more likely to represent the cheeses made on farm 100 years ago. Matured for a maximum of

84 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

six months this is moist, buttery and lightly crumbly and perfectly complements a slice of rich fruity Christmas cake. MontGoMery CheddAr One of only a handful of truly traditional, handmade unpasteurised Cheddars. Produced by Jamie Montgomery in Somerset, this cheese, which is matured for at least 14 months, is characterised by a sweet nutty meatiness. It has a depth and complexity of flavour that is hard to beat. Porter’s, Market Street, Llangollen, 01978 862990

festive feasts

And to wash it all down… Some great wines to accompany these recipes have been chosen by Hannah Schwarzer from Tanners Wine Merchants – family-owned and run and ‘resolutely independent’, with six shops across Shropshire, Herefordshire and north Wales. White Burgundy is a classic, and with good reason! Tanners White Burgundy 2012 (£10.90), with its succulent, buttery character, ripe citrus fruit notes and touch of oak will really hit the spot with a cutting pie, partridge, or a prune-and-chestnutstuffed goose. If you’re inclined to push the boat out, then a red from France’s Burgundy region, such as Beaune Bastion 1er cru, Domaine Chanson 2010 (£31), would be a great match for the smoky pistachio duck. It has the spice and the earthiness to complement the meat, but also a delicious hint of bacon fat, plus oodles of gorgeous ripe berry fruit flavours. Pinot Noir Loron, Vin de France (£8.60) makes a great value alternative. Good sweet German Riesling is almost chutney-like with Cheddar and Cheshire cheeses. We’d highly recommend Piesporter Goldtröpfchen Riesling Spätlese Nr13 Grey Slate, Hain, Mosel 2011 (£16.70), which is a real mouthful in every sense! Lastly, for chocolatey desserts, look no further than the glorious Rivesaltes Grenat sur Grains, Domaine Boudau 2012 (£15.30). This Port-style wine from France is smooth, dark and sweet with a gentle fruit note to complement rich puds, while raisiny Moscatel de Setúbal, Bacalhôa 2011 (£10.95) is a delight with Christmas pudding. Call Tanners Wines Shrewsbury on 01743 234455 or visit www.tanners-wines.co.uk

Christmas Pudding By Edward Lloyd, head chef at Willington Hall Willington Hall is a characterful hotel standing in the Cheshire countryside, looking towards Wales. The Gainsborough Bar & Restaurant has developed a reputation for fine dining, with head chef Edward Lloyd cooking up a fusion of modern British cuisine. IngrEdIEnts 150g currants 150g sultanas 150g roughly chopped prunes 175ml sherry 100g plain flour 125g breadcrumbs

150g suet 150g dark brown muscovado sugar 1 tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground cloves 1 tsp baking powder Zest of 1 lemon

3 large eggs 1 medium cooking apple grated 2 tsp honey 125ml Guinness Mixed peel Glace cherries

MEtHod 1. Sieve flour, cinnamon, cloves and baking powder into a large mixing bowl. 2. Add sugar, breadcrumbs and suet and mix with a wooden spoon. 3. Slowly beat in the eggs and honey. Add the currants, sultanas, prunes, lemon zest, mixed peel, grated apple and glace cherries. 4. Add the sherry and Guinness and beat the mixture well together for a few minutes. 5. Spoon the mixture into a greased pudding basin, cover with greaseproof paper and foil then tie with string. 6. Place the basin in a pan and fill to halfway with boiling water. 7. Cover and steam for 3 hours, topping up water when required. 8. Leave to cool and then store in a cool dry place for one week or freeze until required. Willington Hall, Tarporley, Cheshire, www.willingtonhall.co.uk, 01829 752321

Bitter Chocolate & Courvoisier Fondant By Tom Burge, head chef at Llyndir Hall Hotel Llyndir Hall is a country house hotel on the border of Cheshire and Wales, where the award-winning Garden Restaurant offers creative local and regional dishes giving a real ‘taste of Wales’ experience in a relaxed and homely but highly professional atmosphere. INGReDIeNTS (makes about 10 fondants) 350g unsalted butter 350g good quality dark chocolate 7 whole eggs 7 egg yolks 420g caster sugar 350g sifted plain flour 75ml courvoisier brandy

MeTHoD 1. Melt the butter and chocolate together in a bain marie and add the brandy. 2. Put all the eggs and sugar into a mixing bowl and whisk together until a pale yellow colour. 3. Mix the chocolate and butter with the egg mix, then slowly fold in the flour. 4. Butter 10 dariole moulds (or you can use ramekins, then dust with cocoa powder, ensuring the insides are completely covered with cocoa powder, then shake off the excess. 5. Spoon the mix into the moulds until three-quarters full. Bake for 10-13 minutes depending on how good your oven is at 170c. 6. Ensure the top has a good crust on before turning out as the liquid centre will pour out. They should fall straight out of the mould; if not run the tip of a knife around the edge to release it. Serve with Christmas pudding ice cream and nougatine biscuits. Llyndir Hall Hotel, Rossett, Chester, www.feathers.uk.com, 01244 571648 in their farm shop, alongside a range of local produce and goods. Also on site is the Strawberry Fields Restaurant, offering homecooked food and drinks for all the family. INGReDIeNTS (SeRVeS 12) 6 oz caster sugar ½ cup very strong espresso coffee 1lb 8 oz good quality chocolate 6 oz unsalted butter 5 eggs ¼ tsp each ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg 4-5 tbsp orange liquor 2 oranges 1 cup double cream

Spiced Chocolate and Orange Torte By Bellis Brothers Farm Shop Bellis Brothers is a working, market gardening farm growing fruit and vegetables for sale

You will need a springform tin lined with parchment then double wrapped in foil to seal out moisture MeTHoD 1. Preheat oven to 160C. 2. Dissolve the caster sugar in the espresso

coffee and set aside to cool. 3. Mix 1lb of the chocolate, butter and dry spices in a heatproof bowl and place over a saucepan of boiling water (not touching), stir regularly until contents are melted. 4. Add coffee mixture and finely grated zest of the oranges and 2tbsp of orange liquor. 5. Beat in the eggs, one at a time ensuring they are fully incorporated before adding the next one. 6. Pour the mixture into the prepared tin. Place in a roasting tin and pour boiling water into the roasting tin about two-thirds up. 7. Place in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes until set – a skewer inserted should come out clean. Remove from oven and set aside to cool. 8. Boil the cream and add the remaining chocolate, stir until dissolved then add remaining orange liquor. Set aside for 30 minutes to cool. Pour over torte and refrigerate until required. Bellis Brothers, Holt Village, Wrexham, www.bellisbrothers.co.uk, 01829 270302

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 87

ulp

tur e,

The Orangery at Weston Park

Arty architecture

A restoration project that has breathed new life into the Orangery at Weston Park has been recognised in a national awards scheme for historic houses. The stately home in Shropshire received one of four commendations from the Historic Houses Association/Sotheby’s Restoration Award for the work carried out to restore the Orangery to its original 1865 Victorian design, which included returning to a visibly glazed roof and removing the silk lining that was erected internally in 1999. Colin Sweeney, chief executive of the Weston Park Foundation, said: ‘We are delighted to have been commended – it was a challenging project. The toughest aspect was the installation of over 200 glass panels, which now form the The restored roof, with roof. It has resulted in an 200 glass panels amazing transformation, so to be commended by our peers is really something special.’ With its fine architecture and grand ‘If you hear a vistas across the gardens and voice within you say Capability Brown landscape, the Orangery plays a central role in ‘You cannot paint’ events at Weston Park. Earlier this then by all means year Heston Blumenthal chose it paint, and that voice to serve afternoon tea in his C4 will be silenced.’ series Heston’s Great British Food.

Co ts rne r

cra

fts

,p it’s ainti all ng, he mu re! sic a

re –

A Child’s Christmas in Wales

Oriel Wrecsam is joining in this year’s Dylan Thomas centenary celebrations with ‘A Child’s Christmas in Wales’, a group exhibition of works responding to the ideas and themes explored in Thomas’s classic tale of the same name. The story was first published in 1954, though it has previously existed in different guises such as recorded recitals for radio and magazine articles. The exhibition’s main reference point will be Edward Ardizzone’s 1978 illustrated edition of the text, featuring exhibitors with a local connection – among them Welsh artist Osian Efnisien, Wrexham’s Mike Jones, Catrin Menai from north Wales, Shrewsbury-based Pam Newell, illustrator Rhi Moxon and Abi Whitehouse from Chester. Runs until 17th January 2015 and there will be a live reading by Sophie McKeand on Saturday, 6th December. Visit www.wrexham.gov.uk or call 01978 292093.

Crafts at Afonwen

At Afonwen Craft & Antique Centre near Caerwys in Flintshire a variety of craft Vincent Van demonstrations take place every day. As well Gogh as watching beautiful things being created, and shopping in the gift and craft shop, you can also enjoy lunch or afternoon tea in the Edenshine restaurant. Below An exhibition exploring publishing is a sample of just some of the craft activities taking place – visit and censorship is on display at Glyndwr www.afonwen.co.uk for a complete listings, or call 01352 720965.

Banned!

University’s Oriel Sycharth Gallery in Wrexham until 21st November. The show comprises a selection of artefacts dating from as far back as 1585 right through to contemporary items. Works by Caravaggio, Francisco Goya, and Alexander Rodchenko are all featured. Of particular interest is Y Drychcristia, a 15thcentury book of Catholic hymns which was produced by a sect of monks in a cave 50 miles from where the exhibition is being held. Curator of the exhibition, London-based artist Rory McCartney explains: ‘In an attempt to avoid censorship, the prayers were printed in the local Welsh language in the hopes that the invading Protestants would not be able to read the text and therefore would not condemn the book. The monks’ plan was foiled, but the exercise of attempting to avoid censorship is a key theme within the exhibition.’ Visit www.glyndwr.ac.uk or call 01978 293950.

NOvEMBER

l 8th & 9th, Love spoon carving by Murray Taylor. Watch Murray carving; each and every piece is unique and a one off. l 11th, Handmade bags and traditional knitted toys with Julie & Eileen. The ladies have some fabulous day bags using many branded materials and up to date designs. Julie hand knits traditional toys, many using vintage patterns. l 12th & 13th, Made By Melissa. Melissa will be working both days on her beaded handmade jewellery, cards and crafts. She has a large array of designs and colour ways. l 14th, The Newspaper Lady – Paper Bonding. Sarah will be creating vibrant and colourful sheets to use as earrings, notelets, cards, wall art and even printing on ceramics. l 15th & 16th, Jewels Crafts. Jackie & Wendy design and make stunning jewellery with beads – classic, fun and funky.

DECEMBER

l 16th, Pen & Ink Art by Huw vaughan Jones. l Wed 17th, Susie Q & Kay. Hand knitted and crocheted babies’ clothes and toys and beaded jewellery. l 18th & 23rd, Watercolours and acrylic paintings on canvas. Watch local artist Stuart at work and see his stunning pictures. l 19th, Beaded and button jewellery. Elaine will be using an array of colours and styles. l 21st & 22nd, Semi precious gem stone jewellery, embroidery and handmade cards. Julia will be showing her collection of crafts and jewellery.

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s s t t eerr r r A rrn A n o o CC

Are you a keen amateur photographer?

Would you like to see your photos featured in Yattar Yattar magazine? Email us your best images and you could feature: editorial@ yattaryattar.co.uk

Learning through music

Meet the photographer Sixth form student Katie McKeown, 17, from Brymbo, sent in this lovely photo of a sunflower. Katie is fairly new to photography, and says: ‘I decided to take some photos in the garden, following the theme ‘nature’ and luckily had some success. Since then, I have developed a real interest in the subject. I began to explore it further with my grandad, who is a keen photographer. Finding plants to photograph was pretty easy, since my dad enjoys spending time in the garden growing plants. I used a Canon EOS 500D to take the picture.’ Katie says she believes she is a creative person – and on the evidence here, we definitely agree!

Piccolos run fun, educational music groups for babies and toddlers up to five years old at the Grotto, Wrexham People’s Market, every Monday and Thursday. The groups help children to develop artistically, emotionally and socially while building their confidence and improving their literacy and numeracy skills, physical coordination and concentration. Consisting of songs, rhymes and music games (with lots of instruments), Piccolos is fun, exciting and stimulating. The groups are suitable for nurseries, playgroups, reception classes, community groups, after-school clubs, fairs, exhibitions and private parties. Weather permitting, they can also be held outdoors. As well as Piccolos, The Story Teller narrates animated, interactive children’s tales using props and lots of fun equipment to stimulate and entertain. Piccolos Music groups are on the hour at 10am and 12 noon, with The Story Teller at 11am and 1pm. £3 per child per session and £1.50 for siblings. Piccolos Music and The Story Teller also appear regularly at Gecko’s Play Café, Rascals Retreat and EmzCakes. Visit www.piccolosmusic.org for more information.

Oh, Christmas tree... Do you love Christmas trees? All the glistening tinsel, sparkly lights and individual decorations? Or maybe you’d like some inspiration for decorating your own tree? From sophisticated single-colour themes to traditional red and white with angels, there are a variety of decorated trees on show at Christmas Tree Festivals in the region. Christmas tree festival, llanfynydd In north Wales, St Michael’s Church in Llanfynydd, Flintshire, is holding its second Christmas Tree festival, and this year the theme for the decorations is ‘A song, carol, poem or story about Christmas’. Among the organisations contributing trees for the display are ‘Stitch and Natter’, a craft group from Treuddyn; the Llanfynydd WI; two local primary schools; the Methodist chapel in Ffrith and the local Community Council. The Llanfynydd Community Council will be decorating a tree with handmade trinkets which will be sold in aid of Cancer Research. Refreshments will be available at the church, and on the evening of the 29th, the festival will conclude with a concert from The Bradley Brass Band. Mince pies and drinks are included in the entry fee of £5. The festival takes place from 22nd-29th November. Opening times: Saturday 22nd 10am-4pm, 23rd-28th, 1pm-4pm. Late night Thursday 27th 8pm. Entrance is £3 per adult, children free. For more information call Mary on 01352 771359. Christmas tree display in shrewsbury Meanwhile, in Shrewsbury, St Chad’s Church uses its unique circular shape to create a spectacular display of 40 Christmas trees, which will be on show from 14th-18th December. Each tree is sponsored by a local business or charity, each demonstrating their own creative flair. At the same time an entertaining music festival will take place within the spectacular Georgian church. Local schools, colleges, community choirs and music groups will be performing festive music while seasonal refreshments are served by the Friends of St Chad’s. There’ll also be stalls with all sorts of Christmas gifts to buy. For more information, or if you’d like to sponsor a Christmas tree, visit online at www.stchadschurchshrewsbury.com or call 01743 365478.

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Do you know who’s Who? In celebration of 51 years of Dr Who, Oswestry Indoor Market, community web resource www. community-online.co.uk, and local artist Nigel Thomas have created a unique exhibition with a fun competition running alongside. Nigel has created 12 caricatures of each of the actors who have played Dr Who, and each drawing is accompanied by a quote from the Doctor, taken from a televised story. The challenge is to name the stories from which each of the 12 quotes comes, and the prize is an exclusive Dr Who hoodie, featuring the

Exhibition Diary l The Ladybird exhibition at

doctor of your choice. The clever and funny drawings are on display upstairs in the Indoor Market, and the exhibition is well worth a visit whether you’re a Dr Who fan or not. And don’t worry if you’re not a big Dr Who geek – some help with the answers is at hand at www.community-online.co.uk. The competition is open until 23rd November and can be visited on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. For more information visit www. community-online, go to the Coffee Lounge and click on ‘Doctor Who Hoodie Competition’.

Oriel Ynys Mon, until 7th December In partnership with Ladybird, Oriel Ynys Mon celebrate the illustrations from Charles Tunnicliffe’s books (shown right). This is a vibrant exhibition of colour and delicate sketches from the world renowned illustrator.

l Fires and Fibres at Bodelwyddan Castle, until 14th December Artwork by the painter Ruth Bitowski, potter Sue King and fibre artist Anna O’Higgins come together to showcase a diverse collection of techniques from Japan, Marrakesh and Turkey.

l Exposed: The Body in Art from Durer to Freud, Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery, until 29th December Focusing on images of the human body and exploring ‘ideal body’ mutations, the exhibition showcases works by Picasso, Bacon and Rembrandt in an artistic demonstration of how the body has been used as a vehicle for imagination throughout the decades.

Paint your wagon!

How do you create a home that is truly unique to you? One way is to decorate your own furniture – and a new craft centre near Betws y Coed is aiming to help you do just that. Petticoat Lane Interiors is the brainchild of Kate Russell, owner of the successful Petticoat Lane in Llandudno, which specialises in Annie Sloan Chalk Paints. Set in the beautiful north Wales countryside near Betws y Coed, Hafod Farm is the perfect location for artistic inspiration. The expanded range of workshops, all taking place in the beautiful Tall Barn, include the two Annie Sloan techniques workshops, which Kate has been running from the Llandudno shop. ‘These cover decoupage, gidling and stencilling using the specialist paints and waxes,’ says Kate, ‘but the new workshops will also cover skills and ideas such as lamp-base painting and lampshade making, patterned roller painting and colourmixing techniques.’ Petticoat Lane Interiors opens Did You Know? at Hafod Farm near Betws y Coed on 15th The world’s largest November. Visit www.petticoatlaneshop.co.uk or call 01492 338547. festive ice sculpture

HAVE A GO...

Christmas decorations

features the face of Santa Claus, is 24 metres high, and can be found at Harbin, China

When it comes to decorating your tree, it is likely that many homes will have the same set of decorations as you – unless, of course you decide to break the mould, get your craft box out and make your very own. Here at Yattar Yattar we are setting you the challenge of doing just that. Why not get all of the family over for the evening with all things Christmassy at the ready and get crafting? Have you ever thought about how you could up-cycle those old light bulbs? Why not paint them like a Christmas-themed penguin, or cover the bulbs in glue and roll them in glitter? Perhaps you have copious amounts of odd puzzle pieces? Try arranging them like reindeers’ faces, glue the pieces together and add a small red pom-pom for their noses. You now have your very own Rudolph themed tree decorations! Alternatively, you could bundle-up your old thread spools, get the children to write mini Santa lists on small pieces of paper and glue them together for very personal decorations. There is also the option to collect all of those wine corks and stick them together to create mini reindeer, adding extras to exaggerate their features such as felt, googley eyes or mini pom-poms. The best thing about making your own tree decorations is that if you have a basic supply of crafting materials (glue, felt, string, glitter) they can cost a fraction of the price you would pay to buy shop decorations. Not to mention that the children love getting stuck in to all things crafty. Your tree will be unique because it has your family’s personal touch throughout your decorations.

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l Tim Shaw RA: Black smoke Rising, Aberystwyth Arts Centre, until 18th November Showcasing works from an exciting sculptor, with the powerful ‘Casting a Dark Democracy’ sculpture (above) taking centre stage, this exhibition explores the harrowing process of human reduction and human conflict throughout the years. l Francesca Woodman, Oriel Davies Gallery, 15th November-25th February 2015 The exhibition explores photographic portraits from Woodman who died at the age of 22. The photographer’s 18 pieces explore non-traditional and obscured portraits intended to evoke a sense of fragility in human emotions.

Homes&interiors

Inspirational ideas and sound advice for your home – inside and outside!

A bakery unlike any other

The little fishing village of Aberdaron in north Wales has acquired an unusual new building this year, courtesy of Rob David Interior Design. Earlier this year, while remodelling the ground floor of the Ship Hotel in the village, Rob was asked to project manage and help design a thatched bakery. There has been a bakery in Aberdaron for more than 100 years – but until recently ‘Becws Islyn’ was located in a tiny tin hut as you enter the village. ‘It was an absolute joy researching and sourcing the workforce and materials for this project,’ says Rob. ‘We finally opted for a troop of master thatchers from Eling near Southampton. Watching them create this little masterpiece was a delight – the whole of the village and some tourists enjoyed watching it develop.’ It was important to create a building that looked as though it could have stood on the site for many years so Robert decided to chop off each breeze block corner to create a rounded look. Then came a lime rendering and lime wash, the traditional finish on heritage buildings. ‘The choice of exterior colour was a vital component,’ says Rob, ‘and I went for Bath Stone, replicating the stone facades in that city.’ While the outside had to look old, the interior had to be modern and functional with a bespoke counter and shelving, sandstone tiles and energy-efficient LED lighting. ‘I hope that we have created an iconic building for this small community and that the locals and tourists alike will grow to cherish this unique and The most durable – as far as my research goes – only thatched bakery in Britain.’ thatching material You can see the whole is water reed visual story on Robert’s (Phragmites Australis) Facebook page, ‘Rob David Interior Design’ or visit www. which can last up to robdavidinteriordesign.com

Did You Know?

60 years

Happy heating

With winter setting in, now is a good time to think about upgrading your heating system, and Coppercroft, near Wrexham, can help. The company offers a wide range of services, including oil and gas central heating installation, energy efficient system upgrades, boiler installation, oil tank installation, and solar installation. ‘Our qualified engineers are experienced and familiar with current regulations,’ says Tina Nelson of the company, ‘plus they know about the product lines and are happy to advise customers about which systems will be best for them.’ Getting a new heating system installed needn’t be a major upheaval either. ‘We can install a boiler in a day, if it’s a straight swap,’ says Tina. ‘Most standard heating systems can be complete in three to five days, depending on size.’ And you can rest easy that there’ll be no hidden charges or unexpected expenses with a Coppercroft installation. ‘We provide free quotations to cover all work, which are fixed price quotations rather than estimates,’ says Tina. ‘Our quotations cover everything, fully supplied and installed, and all our installations carry our 12-month workmanship warranty, with boilers all carrying their own manufacturer’s warranty.’ Coppercroft pride themselves on offering a prompt and efficient service. For more information visit www.coppercroftltd.co.uk or call 01978 710897.

Good wood!

Wooden floors are modern, functional, warm and easy to care for – but it’s important that you know what you need before you buy. Elaine Smillie from Living Floors in Chester has some advice for those considering choosing a wood floor. ‘Think about the room – is it a heavy traffic area such as a hallway? Also, who lives in the house? A busy family home with dogs will benefit from a durable finish if choosing real wood, such as textured and UVoiled. This will be less likely to show small marks that may result from family life than a smooth varnished wood. ‘How much maintenance are you prepared to do? Natural oiled floors are beautiful and can be spot repaired but you must replenish the oil every six to 12 months. This can be done easily at home by applying a thin coat of maintenance oil to a clean floor. If you still want real wood with minimal maintenance then a matt lacquered or UV-oiled floor will only need regular sweeping and damp cleaning, with the option to apply a maintenance product every couple of years depending on wear. ‘Think about what look you want to achieve, a wider board can open out a small room. A natural grade wood will be lively looking with knots and varied tones. A prime grade wood will give a very calm, elegant feel. Take samples home to look at with your own surroundings. ‘And finally, if you’re planning a new wood floor as part of a build project, consider your choices at the beginning: a new wood floor is the biggest piece of furniture in your home and deserves a little thought!’ Visit www.living-floors.co.uk or call 01244 382416

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Homes & interiors

Home shopping

Know the drill Under the Government’s Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) Scheme (visit www.rhincentive.co.uk), you can heat and power your home for a fraction of what you’re currently paying – and you could receive a tax-free income from the Government too. The Government wants homeowners to start making their own renewable energy so the RHI scheme pays people to generate their own electricity and heat. Obviously, installing a renewable energy system, such as solar panels or ground source heating, will involve an up-front cost, but you can expect your investment to be paid back soon. Dragon Drilling is a local company that installs ground source heat boreholes throughout north Wales and north west England. ‘Ground source heating is a sustainable use of the earth’s heat,’ explains Ben Ellison from the company. ‘A few metres below the ground’s surface, the temperature is constant (approximately 11C) all year.’ Many heating engineers believe that ground source heat installation means trenching – but, says Ben, this is not true. A borehole is a much tidier and less intrusive option. ‘A ground source borehole makes use of the earth’s constant temperature using a ground source heat pump which converts and transfers energy for hot water and heating using specialist radiators or under floor heating systems,’ explains Ben. Dragon Drilling are also pioneering a system that is installed on an internal wall, converting it into a ‘hidden radiator’. You can heat your room with a warm wall rather than have a conspicuous radiator, which is great if you want to maintain the character of a room. For more information about Dragon Drilling visit www.dragondrilling.co.uk or call 01824 707777.

Know which way the wind’s blowing with a Welsh Dragon Weathervane, £59.99. (St George and other designs are available, too.) From Wynnstay Stores, www. wynnstayonline.co.uk

Silver balls are not just for Christmas! Glam your living room with this Equator six-light ceiling pendant, £399, from DC Lighting in Oswestry, www. dclighting-oswestry.co.uk

Get cosy this winter – Welsh tapestry bedspread, £255; cushions £36-£55; slippers £52; sheepskin rug £60, all from Trefriw Woollen Mills, www.t-w-m.co.uk

Carry your Christmas wines in vintage French style. ‘Claudine’ classic wine carrier, £32.99, British Iron Works, Oswestry www.britishironworkcentre.co.uk

Expect great things Haven’t you heard? Owning bespoke items is very fashionable when it comes to your home and interior design. Aim to make a lasting impression before your guests even step inside. Gate Expectations create hand-crafted, made-to-measure gates and garage doors designed around your home. If you want to make your property more secure and want something that’s unique to you, or simply prefer to support your local business, then bespoke gates are the way forward for you. Gate Expectations is a family run business, with three generations of time-served joiners, who are assured by the British Woodworking Federation Code of Conduct. Whatever you have in mind, there is no gate or doorway they cannot accommodate. Best of all you get to have your say on exactly how your gates and garage doors look, and with the quality of Gate Expectations’ product you won’t be disappointed. Find out more at www. woodworkersuk.co.uk or call 01745 362444.

96 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

Glass snowflake bauble £7, from Laura Ashley. www.lauraashley.com

Xmas tree tealight holder, £3.50; glass candle holders, £6; snowflake bauble, £4 for 4; candle holder, £12; swirl candle, £4.50; Xmas tree candle, £3.50; tealight holder, £5. All from Tesco, www.tesco.com

Brighten up your entrance with this country welcome doormat, £8.99, from Coed-y-Dinas, Welshpool. www.charliesdirect.co.uk

PREMIERÊ JOTULÊ STOVEÊ SHOWROOMÊ

WINTERÊ PROMOTIONÊ NOWÊ ONÊ

J¿ tulÊ areÊ oneÊ ofÊ theÊ worldÕ sÊ oldestÊ producersÊ ofÊ stoves.Ê BuildingÊ onÊ aÊ proudÊ NorwegianÊ heritage,Ê combiningÊ fineÊ craftsmanshipÊ withÊ theÊ artÊ ofÊ copingÊ withÊ theÊ coldÊ forÊ 160Ê years.Ê Ê

Winter in the

garden

With some great advice from our experts, here’s how to look after your winter garden…

hedge your bets

Garden Advice By heAd GArdener At erddiG house Glyn Smith the autumn and early winter months may not appeal to all as interesting times in the garden, but they are certainly the busiest and, in my opinion, the most important. At erddig, we are busy in the garden all year round. the annual flower beds have been cultivated and planted up, with pansies, violas and tulip bulbs added. it’s not too late to pop a few spring bulbs into your beds and borders. When we dig over our flower beds, we incorporate well-rotted compost. We make all our own organic compost from our garden waste. Whenever we make new plantings we add some compost to give the plants a good start, but also to help retain moisture in the soil. if the compost is a bit coarse, it can be used as a mulch on the soil surface. now, the most important piece of information: about 75 per cent of our compost comes from fallen leaves. We spend weeks raking them up. so, don’t just throw away all those leaves blowing about your garden, they make the best compost and it’s free!

For ensuring some privacy and encouraging wildlife to your garden, nothing is better than a hedge. But it doesn’t have to be evergreen, as Jill Rock from Dingle nursery & Garden Centre says… now is the time to start thinking about planting hedging as the plants can be obtained bare-rooted from november onwards and are relatively cheap to buy. Many people opt for an evergreen such as yew or laurel because they want privacy, but a native deciduous hedge will become just as dense even in the winter Pruning and planning with the added bonus of encouraging a huge array of birds and insects. now is also the time to start pruning apple Around 75 per cent hawthorn or blackthorn would usually make and pear trees. We grow more than 300 fruit up the majority of such a hedge – both are excellent for nesting birds trees at erddig and all need some pruning in in the spring as well as providing food in the form of berries in the wintertime. We have cordon, espalier and bush autumn. Field maple and hazel can be added for a simple mix; both trained trees, as well as some old veterans in attract birds and insects, moths and butterflies, with hazelnuts an our car park. Pruning highly trained forms of added bonus for birds and mammals later in the year. fruit trees is both an art and a skill. if you have other suitable varieties for your new hedge could include guelder any fruit trees, i would highly recommend you rose (which again provides nectar for insects and fruits for birds and purchase a simple book on pruning.that may mammals, especially woodmice) and crab apple, elder, spindle and give you an idea for what you would like for a holly which all bear fruit for food. Christmas present, or what about asking for a dingle nursery can supply any amount of young new pair of secateurs. bare-root plants, called ‘whips’, for your new hedge and advise you on varieties and Late autumn is also a good time to planting distances. Plants are available from the beginning of november until the make new shrub plantings in the end of March. don’t be put off by the way the plants look at this time – they’ll Need somebody to garden. they can get established in be dormant, but don’t worry, they’ll soon spring into life next year and grow come and dispose of your the ground before the worst of the quickly. Visit www.dinglenurseryandgarden.co.uk or call 01938 555145. weather arrives. Christmas tree, holly wreaths

Time for a change ANTHoNy FroM CoEd y dINAS GArdEN CENTrE HAS SoME HINTS ANd TIPS For kEEPING your GArdEN AT ITS bEST oVEr THE WINTEr MoNTHS For those rearranging their gardens, late autumn is a good time to move evergreens and large shrubs from their existing positions. Make sure you lift with as big a root ball as possible and stake to secure. This is also a better time for planting as the soil is still relatively warm and will help plants establish much quicker. Prune shrub and bush roses down by about half now to prevent them from getting damaged in the winds and to encourage good new growth for next year. Prune climbing roses by up to a third too. Hardwood cuttings can be taken and planted now. A variety of shrubs including cornus (dogwoods), laurels and escallonia are the easiest. Make sure not to overwater during the winter months as plants can become waterlogged and rot off. Empty water features and remove pumps and filters to prevent any damage from frosts. Cover if necessary with a suitable

and other decorative gardening debris after Christmas? Contact 2Js Garden and Landscape on 01978 759801

protection cover to avoid any damage during winter. Outdoor plants to look out for l Callunas and ericas (winter heathers) l Callicarpa profusion (bright purple berries) l Helleborus in variety l Ilex (hollies) l Jasminum nudiflorum (winter jasmine) l Mahonias (bright yellow flowers) l Sarcococca (Christmas box) l Viburnum tinus and vars l Winter pansies, violas, hardy cyclamen. Christmas plants and trees will of course be available in abundance. There is nothing better than a real tree in the house at Christmas. A wide range of cut, potted and pot grown Christmas trees, including Norway Spruce, Nordman Fir, Noble Fir and Fraser Fir are usually found in all good garden centres. Indoor plants to brighten the home Poinsettias in various colours, Christmas cacti, large flowered cyclamen, orchids, chrysanthemums, amarylis, azaleas, pot roses, hyacinths in various colours and arrangements. Coed y Dinas Garden Centre, Welshpool. Visit www. coedydinas.co.uk or call 01938 555545.

100 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

Pay us a visit

Winter gardens have their own atmosphere. there may not be that many flowers to find, but the little gems that do flower, or have brightly coloured twigs or leaves, really light up the garden. they are little prizes to be found on a garden walk. erddig garden also has a strong structure. All the hedges, topiary, garden walls with their trained fruit trees and climbers, make a winter walk a joy. Why not come and meet the gardeners and volunteers at work in the garden and perhaps take in a warming bowl of soup in the restaurant afterwards? on the weekends running up to Christmas, we will be setting up our stall making Christmas table decorations from garden greenery. so if you fancy making a centrepiece for your Christmas table, pop along to one of our workshop days – visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk to find out more.

An Erddig apple tree trained into espaliers

GARDENS

Thanks to David Padgham for this lovely project with raised beds; you can see more on the customer projects pages on the website

The Float Garden by David Magner, with split level deck and raised bed, adds interest to the garden by adding a variety of shapes and heights

Jacksons Fencing News and topical treats, plus – raise your game by raising your beds, says Louise at Jacksons Fencing

utumn is well and truly here and those mellow, golden days of late September and October, that fool us into thinking the end of the summer isn’t quite as bad as feared, have gone. Being such a summer lover can make me a bit gloomy, as the nights draw in and the clocks go back. We’ve been here before of course, and I know I’m not alone in turning to ‘activities’ as the antidote to the onset of winter blues. It follows quite naturally that as foliage dies down and leaves fall, having a bit of an autumn tidy up strikes you as the sensible thing to do, especially when you realise the temperature is about 10 degrees lower than you’ve been used to and is more conducive to bursts of activities like scrubbing, jet-washing, raking up leaves etc, than relaxing on the lounger with your Kindle. Hopefully there is room within this cleaning frenzy to actually do a bit of constructive stuff. Take stock, as the garden’s shape and size is revealed, by clearing up the clutter and pruning the old growth. How about getting a project under way like creating some raised beds? These are becoming increasingly popular, with media exposure extolling the virtues of raising the level of your gardening, as seen in many gardening

DIY and makeover programmes. It certainly helps to make weeding and harvesting that much easier if you raise the height of the plants you are growing, especially if you have back problems or other physical conditions that limit bending. However there’s a lot more to them than convenience. Raised beds are being used as an integral part of garden design schemes, where they contain veg or flowers and shrubs, creating separate growing areas. As shown in the photo of the Float Garden, one of our raised bed kits has been incorporated in the split-level decking next to the Zone shelter. The designer planned this, not just for aesthetic reasons, but to cater for the ericaceous (lime hating) plants he wanted to use in this part of the garden, like the beautiful red Maple (Acer), with the ferns.

‘How about getting a project under way, like creating some raised beds?’

Adding shape and structure So raised beds can give you the chance to keep soil types separate. They can also add interesting shape and structure. The other photo is an impressive example, sent to me by David Padgham for the customer projects section on the website. Rather than using our raised beds kits he has used ungrooved Jakwall timbers in a very clever way, making

beds for water features. Some are Alpine beds and a rather nifty bench seat is included too. Here’s a test for you: look at the picture, then imagine it without the raised beds. It would just be a flower bed, some paving and the fence – pretty boring really! I think I know which I prefer. To find out more go to your local page www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/chesterlocal or call 0800 408 4754 to talk to your local Jacksons Fencing Centre. louise@jacksonsfencing.co.uk y

WIN! A pair of raised bed kits

Enter the free prize draw and be in with a chance to win a pair of Jacksons raised bed kits. Simply log on to your local page, address below, and follow the easy instructions on how to enter. The draw closes 31st January, 2015. To enter go to: www.jacksonsfencing.co.uk/chesterlocal

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 103

Personalised rooms designed to suit your lifestyle

&Wildlife

Pets

For all your creatures, great and small…

An early christmas

Well groomed

If you struggle to get your pooch in the bath, or are tired of chasing your cat around the living room with a hairbrush, it’s time to get yourself to a grooming masterclass It’s usually Christmas and the at Petcetera. The Shropshire-based start of the New Year that we pet product supplier is hosting three associate with shiny toys and exclusive grooming masterclasses, new beginnings, but we’ve presented by the CEO of Pure Paws, started early at Park Issa, the American dog and cat grooming with the opening of our new products manufacturer. During the operating theatres and cat masterclasses, Arlene Muzquiz will and dog kennels at our main be demonstrating how to make the Oswestry branch. Although most of Pure Paws’ range of animal shampoos, conditioners and we haven’t quite caught up hairsprays, and will offer advice on how to groom individual breeds. with human doctors, veterinary Fiona Wilson, director of Petcetera, said: ‘We are delighted to diagnostics and treatment are bring Arlene back to the UK for our seminar. She will be sharing the developing at an increasing latest tips and techniques of the trade, and we look speed and we are constantly forward to welcoming lots of local cat and dog updating our equipment and our knowledge to give us the owners for what promises to be a fantastic best possible chance of fixing our patients. event for pet owners.’ Great reader As anyone who’s a fan of Grand Designs will know, Founded in 2000 in San Antonio Texas, offer from Petcetera Pure Paws’ grooming range is made building is never as straightforward as you’d hope. The Any Pure Paws goods from natural ingredients and has been ground works always take longer and cost more than you purchased on the day developed in conjunction with breeders expect; there’s usually a long wait for the windows, and will be subject to a and owners. Everything used in the somewhere along the line you’ll have a lot of people in 15% discount! demonstrations will be available to purchase fluorescent jackets peering into a hole! It’s all worth it in in the store afterwards. the end, though, and we’re all very excited about our new Masterclasses take place 21st-23rd November at building and equipment. Petcetera’s headquarters in Whitchurch, Shropshire. To register, call 01948 668100. Prices are £80 with a dog or £45 room and board without, and include light lunch and refreshments. We now have separate cat, dog and small furries kennel LOcAL VEt LUcy tUbbS tELLS US AbOUt SOmE ExcItIng nEw dEVELOPmEntS At PArk ISSA VEtS In OSwEStry

spaces to help reduce stress during an animal’s stay; separate orthopaedic and soft tissue operating theatres; and a diagnostic imaging room to house the x-ray and ultrasound machines, which help us diagnose all sorts of things from broken limbs to swallowed toys to pregnant bitches. Our blood machine also has a special new home and has been updated so we can now test for levels of thyroid hormone as well as the usual things such as liver and kidney problems and the numbers of the different blood cells. Being able to do these tests in-house will make it quicker and easier for us to diagnose illnesses and to check on the effectiveness of long-term medications.

Look out for the open day… We hope to be having an open day when the weather gets a bit warmer, so everyone will be welcome to come and have a nose around the new building and learn a bit more about what we do and where your pets will be staying. Until then we’ll be getting used to the newness of it all and enjoying our early Christmas present. I hope you all have a very happy Christmas and successful new year.

TS!

READERS CUTE PE

Eddie & molly from Presteigne

SEnd US yOUr cUtE PEtS!

Send us a picture of your favourite pet to editorial@yattaryattar. co.uk and we’ll publish it in a future issue bertie from brymbo

About Lucy...

Lucy graduated from Edinburgh University in 2007 and has worked as a vet with Park Issa Vets ever since. She works at both the Oswestry and Johnstown branches and does a mixture of small animal and farm work. Visit www.parkissa.com for more information about Park Issa Vets, call 01691 670067 for the Oswestry branch, or call 01978 845472 for the Johnstown branch.

Sam from caernarfon

Pavlov & Vivienne from tallarn green

ginger & Pepper from market drayton

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 107

Give hounds a helping hand this Christmas

New wildlife centre born in a barn

Greyhound Rescue Wales have a number of events coming up in the lead up to Christmas – whether you can volunteer to help out, or just go along and give them some support, staff, volunteers and dogs will all be very glad to see you! l 6th December, Welshpool Christmas street collection, 10am-3pm l 6th December, Jollyes Flint, 11am-3pm l 14th December, Chester. Street collection and Christmas carols 11am-3pm. Come along and see the greyhounds dressed up in their Christmas outfits. Musicians Zoe and Graham McDonald will be singing carols accompanied by guitars. Plus rehoming co-ordinator Beth Richardson will be on hand to speak to anyone who needs more information regarding adopting a greyhound. l 20th December, Pets at Home Rhyl, 11am-3pm For more information, go online and visit www.greyhoundrescuewales. co.uk or call 0300 0123 999.

Pets sHOPPING

Cheshire Wildlife Trust celebrated the opening of their new Bickley Barn education centre this autumn, and they hope that local schools, community groups and other organisations will take advantage of the all-weather teaching facility to find out more about wildlife in the area. The project has transformed a 100-year-old former dairy milking barn into a purpose-built centre with classrooms, indoor washrooms, disabled access and a kitchen. The latest technology also means that neighbouring wildlife can be beamed by wireless cameras directly into the centre and big screens can bring microscopic creatures in the farm’s ponds to life. The new centre also opens on to a large dedicated outdoor learning area, with ponds, an orchard and wildflower meadows just seconds away. Native-breed Longhorn cattle and Hebridean sheep are just across the fence on the 200-acre wildlife-friendly farm. Call 01948 820728 or visit www.cheshirewildlifetrust.org.uk

Wildlife watching

The dunlin has a slightly down-curved bill and a distinctive black belly patch

with Graham Uney

Far too many people write off the winter months as cold, wet, and just not worth going out of doors for. This is a shame, as any wildlife enthusiast will tell you that the autumn and winter months are among the most exciting times of year for seeing a huge range of species – especially if you head for the seaside. During the summer season many of our wading birds move north to nest on moors, tundra and seashores right up into the Arctic. Wading birds feed on the ground, eating tiny crustaceans, molluscs, and insects, and as the ground becomes covered in snow, they find it harder to forage for food, so they move south to the estuaries and coasts of the UK. The Welsh beaches are blessed with many great places to see waders during the winter, and the estuaries of the Dee, Mawddach and Dyfi hold huge numbers of these birds. Go out looking for oystercatchers, curlews, lapwing, dunlin, snipe, turnstones and ringed plovers, and you’ll have a fabulous time out in the wind and cold. Graham runs guided wildlife walks in Wales and the borders. Visit www.wildwalkswales.co.uk or call 01678 521871.

It’s Christmas for animals too, you know!

Dedicated to greyhounds

Greyhound Rescue Shropshire & Borders (GRSB) (including Shropshire & Borders RGT) is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming greyhounds and lurchers and finding them loving new homes. The organisation always has a wide range of dogs looking for homes, such as Poppy (pictured) – whether young, old, active, quiet, big, small and sometimes even cat friendly! The main priority for the dedicated staff and volunteers is to get the right dog into the right home and with this in mind GSRB offers post rehoming/fostering support whenever you need it. The adoption fee is very reasonable and covers neutering, vaccinations and worming prior to rehoming. GRSB also give four weeks’ free Pet Plan Insurance at the point of adoption. Even if you are unable to rehome a dog, there are many ways you can help GRSB – the organisation always need volunteers for events, dog walking and new ideas for Do you have an fundraising, and welcome new faces with open arms. unusual pet? They For more information visit www. could feature right shropshire.retiredgreyhounds. co.uk - the website is always up here in Yattar Yattar – to date with information on dogs email us and tell us all currently waiting to be rehomed.

Challenge your dog to find the treat: Nina Ottosson dog brick game. £27.99, www. petcetera.co.uk

Never-ending fun for your cat with unpoppable Kitty IncrediBubbles. £3.65, www.petsfirst.co.uk

Something for your guinea pig to chew on: Happy Pet willow play ball. Large £8.95, www. kennelgate.co.uk

Unusual pets

Meet the chameleons from Ysgol San Sior primary school, in Llandundo, Conwy. The school has quite an extensive menagerie, including both male and female chameleons, and babies are hoped for! ‘Our female turned colour last week, developing blue and yellow spots so we introduced the male,’ explains teacher Ian. ‘If all goes to plan she will lay eggs next month. Each week a different year group takes responsibility for the menagerie. The children get to feed the chameleons and see it shoot its elastic tongue at a locust. Do you know that the only other creature that can move its eyes independently of each other is the seahorse?’ The school also has 150 chickens and 30 pheasants and is the only school in the UK that can sell eggs to shops!

about them: editorial@ yattaryattar.co.uk 108 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

Swarovski Buzz pendant necklace, from the Stardust collection, £199, www.mococo.co.uk M&S Collection Snowflake earrings, Marks & Spencer

Sequin flapper dress, £89, and jewelled statement necklace, £18, both M&Co

M&S Collection Gold Maxi Dress £79, Marks & Spencer

Party

Sterling silver and pearl necklace by Espree, £35, from Corwen Manor, www. corwenmanor.co.uk

Fashion EVENTS

Fashion Events

Planning a fashion show or sale? Let us know at editorial@yattaryattar. co.uk or call us on 01978 813035 and we’ll tell all our readers!

h second image Fashion show, 17th november, newport cottage care cente, shropshire Starts 7.30pm, includes a free glass of wine. Tickets £5, all monies go towards running of the Care Centre. Call 01952 820893, www.newport-care.org

h Ladies dinner & Fashion show, 27th november, wynnstay hoteL & spa, oswestry Organised by boutique Out of Town, the event includes sparkling wine on arrival plus a two-course meal. Tickets are £29 with all proceeds to Cancer Research UK. Call 01691 655622.

‘Tis the season to get your glad rags on – you shall go to the ball!

fashion

h Festive Ladies Lunch with cLare nasir, 12th november, aLderLey edge hoteL Arrive at 12pm to browse a selection of luxury stalls by local boutiques. Clare will provide a fascinating insight to her life as a TV presenter. Tickets £25, includes two courses plus tea or coffee. Visit www.nmcentre. com or call 01606 861733

h Fashion show and Fair, 18th november, ysgoL morgan LLwyd, wrexham High street fashion and designer labels at low cost prices. All garments brand new. All credit and debit cards and cash accepted. Raffle and a huge variety of stalls, including makeovers, jewellery, cakes and household chic items. A great chance to buy your christmas presents and stocking fillers. Charity event raising money for a much needed school minibus. Tickets from 01978 315050 at £5.

Floral batwing tunic by Pomodoro, £60, from Jenevieve, Llangollen, www. jenevieve.co.uk

Silver sequin dress by Gina Bacconi, £365 from So Chic, Bangor. www. sochicbangor. co.uk

Gemstone embellished dress, £154, by Elisa Cortes. From www.poppyvarden.com

Jewelled detail evening gown by Michaela Louisa, £159, from Out of Town, Oswestry. www.out-oftown-oswestry. co.uk

WE LOVE

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 111

Winter Warmers

WE LOVE

Keep cosy over the coming months with our selection of lovely outerwear

Down filled coat with genuine-fur lined hood, £293, by Concept K. From www.poppyvarden.com

Leopard print coat by Crush, £220, from Out of Town, Oswestry.

Parka jacket by Riani, £555, from So Chic, Bangor. www. sochicbangor. co.uk

‘You can never take too much care over the choice of your shoes. The real proof of an elegant woman is what’s on her feet’ Christian Dior

Black oil nubuck boots by Caprice, £120, from Fab Feet, Oswestry. www. out-of-townoswestry.co.uk

Kilnwood Hooded Cardigan, by Barbour. £159, from Vaughan Davies, Mold. www. vaughandavies. co.uk, 01352 752632

If you want to get ahead… Sheepskin hats by Baa Baa, from £68, from Trefriw Woollen Mills, Conwy. www.t-w-m. co.uk

A new look for Clare’s Department store Clare’s of Llandudno has had a thoroughly modern makeover with more than £100,000 of investment making it the go-to place for fashion, accessories and homeware. Clare’s has a long history in Llandudno – dating back to 1927, it is one of the town’s oldest businesses. The store now offers style seekers a boutique experience in a historic building full of character and charm. The new brands available include Seasalt, Braintree, Animal and White Stuff. Call 01492 876711, or visit www.ustores.com Claire McElroy, manager at the new-look store

112 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

Click here to shop local You don’t have to go to the Internet giants like Amazon and Tesco to get great goods ordered in an instant and delivered direct to your door. Lots of local retailers have great sites, where you can find what you want, place your order, and have your goodies delivered within days. Here are some of our favourites It’s in the bag

Based in Wrexham, Be.Loved offer unique, real leather handbags, handmade by a team of British craftsmen with more than 40 years’ experience. They back up their claims of quality with a two-year guarantee on all bags. Although there are no quick ways to navigate the site, the range is quite small and it’s easy to find your way around. You can sign up for updates via email. Shipping costs £5 per bag for three to five-day delivery, but if your item is out of stock it can take up to three weeks to get to you. They can be contacted by phone if you’ve any queries.

Visit www.be-loved.me

After a fashion

This independently owned woman’s clothing company has been dressing the ladies of west Wales since 1947 and has now opened its online clothing store. The site offers clothing from more than 20 brands including Olsen and Holster and also a range of gifts including umbrellas, vintage silver teaspoons and bathtime treats. The website is easy to use with a filter function meaning you can shop by brand, colour and price. You can sign up for email updates. Delivery is free on orders over £100, otherwise charges start at £3.99. There is a 14-day hassle-free returns policy. They can be contacted by phone.

Visit www.poppyvarden.com

Home from home

This Powys-based, family-run business has been supplying home and garden items for more than 30 years and now cater for those needs online. They have a vast range of products from tents to kayaks to basic kitchen accessories, and popular outdoor clothing brands such as Barbour and Hunter. The website is easy to navigate, with price sliders so you can make your choice based on how much you want to spend, and you can even narrow down your search by colour. Delivery is free if you spend over £75, otherwise it costs £4.50, unless the item is over 30kg, then it’s £15.

Visit www.charliesdirect.co.uk

An absolute gem

This online jewellery shop offers a range of beautiful, handcrafted, nature-inspired mini pieces of art. Each piece is individually made by jeweller Lucy Copleston. The website contains a gallery of glittering past commissions using unusual gems which include opals and blue topaz gemstones. There is the option to buy ready-made rings on the website but you can also commission your own piece of individual jewellery. The website is fairly basic which makes it very easy to use. You can also enquire about jewellery workshops here. All prices shown include p&p via special delivery.

Visit www.exclusivejewellery.co.uk

All that glitters

Offering big names including Swarovski and Pandora, plus up-and-coming British designers such as Shaun Leane, this online jewellery shop has a very helpful gift finder. You can filter through what type of metal you want, which gem and even which collection from the list of designers. Delivery is free for purchases over £50, otherwise delivery starts at £1.50. All items are gift wrapped with a chocolate treat or mint included, and you can add your own personal message. They can be contacted by phone if you’ve any queries.

Visit www.mococo.co.uk

114 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

Write now!

Write Here is one of the leading fountain pen shops in the UK and the website has a long list of fine pen makers including Porsche Design and Visconti. The site also offers notebooks and diaries from G Lalo and Leuchtterm as well as art supplies. It’s easy to navigate the site, and you can call them if you have any questions. Delivery is free on purchases over £10, otherwise p&p is £1.50.

Visit www.writeherekitenow.co.uk

Pedal to the metal

GET IN TOUCH

Are you a local online retailer? Get in touch now on (01978) 813035 or email editorial@ yattaryattar.co.uk to find out how you can feature on these pages…

Personal charm

This online shop supports local and small-scale designers, artisans and small businesses and helps them sell their work. It is a collaboration of various people selling unique items for your home and wardrobe. With a mission statement ‘To humanise the faceless world of consumerism’ the site has bios of each craftsperson. Navigation is easy, through price, brand and even which room in your house you want to buy for. Delivery is included in the price of all purchases except furniture and bespoke items. You can call them if you have any questions.

Visit www.makethemostof.co.uk

High and mighty

Alongside its collection of all things Welsh – including adult and baby rugby shirts, love spoons and Celtic jewellery – this site offers collectables and teddy bears, and a range of other gifts. The site is small but easy to use, with just a small selection of what’s available in the shop itself. You can call them if you’ve any queries or can’t find what you want. There’s a sliding scale of delivery charges from £3-£12.

Visit www.shopintheclouds.com

State of the art

A diverse collection of jewellery, teddies and unique crafts and gifts are available on this site. Ranges include Betty Boop figurines, Welsh collectables, Lladro porcelain and Edge sculptures. You can sign up for email updates. The website is easy to find your way around by just looking through the categories and using the search bar. If you have any questions you can call them. Delivery costs vary according to item.

Based near Oswestry, this family-run business offers a host of products for home and garden. As the name suggests, the majority of items are made of metal, from intricately designed loo-roll holders to sturdy and decorative garden benches, but there’s also a range of quirky gifts and kitchen items, as well as a bespoke collection of handcrafted metal artworks. The site is organised into obvious product categories, and there’s a quick and handy search option too. Shipping varies according to the items ordered. They can be contacted by phone if you’ve any queries about any of the products. Visit www.britishironworkcentre.co.uk

Material world

Makers of beautiful Welsh tapestry products, Trefriw offer a full online shopping service. With various products – such as bedspreads, throws, cushions and rugs – all available in different designs and sizes, the site makes it easy to choose your product, colourway and size. You can also order samples of fabric to make sure you know what you’re getting. Delivery costs vary according to the item ordered, but start at £6.24 for small items shipped by Royal Mail. Orders are posted within a maximum of three days and can take seven days to be delivered. They can be contacted by phone. Visit www.t-w-m.co.uk

Country file

As its name implies, this online shop sells everything from agricultural equipment and farm animal feed to toys for your pets, products for your home and garden and clothing and footwear. The site is organised into departments accordingly, and also has a useful search facility. The site is functional rather than pretty, but is very practical and easy to use. Delivery is free on orders over £50, otherwise charges start at £3.95 for parcels up to 30kg. You can also order online and pick up your product at one of the stores if you don’t want to wait for delivery. There is a phone number for general enquiries. Visit www.countrywide farmers.co.uk

Dress to impress

A family-run business with a shop in Ruthin, north Wales, this site stocks just about everything you could possibly want for the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking for technical waterproof clothing, a country gentleman’s tweeds, or anything in between, it’s here, along with gifts, equipment, countryside guides and more. The site is split into sections but there’s plenty of overlap, so, for instance, you’ll find socks under footwear, obviously, but you’ll also find them in dog-walking essentials. There’s free shipping on orders over £75, otherwise delivery costs £2.95 for items up to 2.2lb, above that it’s £5.95. You can contact them by phone if you’ve any queries.

Visit www.cherrytree countryclothing.com

Visit www.villagecrafts.net

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 115

New p consu atient ltation s

£37.50

You’ll want to smile... Logo sizes

The Denplan logo can be produced in a number of different sizes to suit different applications - from business cards to building signage. These six logo sizes are each designed for a specific role. Please ensure you use the appropriate sized logo supplied by Denplan and do not scale between sizes except where allowed.

General & Cosmetic Dentistry

Esthetique 30mm

40mm

Implants

50mm

SizeDE A N- TAL 30mm

Size B - 40mm

Size C - 50mm

For uses such as promotional items where the strapline TAL wouldDE beNillegible.

For use on 1/3 A4 DL literature, business cards and small adverts.

For use on A5 sized items of literature and A4 sized adverts and direct mail.

Esthetique

Clear Braces

Esthetique

Oral Hygiene DE N TAL

Esthetique

Tooth Whitening DE N TAL

Esthetique

60mm

80mm

SizeDE D N- TAL 60mm

Size E - 80mm

Created for use on A4 sized items of literature and A3 sized advertisements. It is also the preferred size logo to be used online or for other screen viewed applications.

For use on A3 Posters

Large Format Logo Only to be used in situations like signage and exhibitions where people may be viewing from a distance and the strapline could become illegible.

Thomas Norlin

Emily Wright

DDS, Odont Lic, Dipl

BDS, MFDS RCSEd

01939 211150 www.esthetiquedental.co.uk

11&12 The Stables · Sansaw Business Park · SY4 4AS Note 1. The measurements shown here indicate the width of the logo from the left edge of the apple to the right edge of the word ‘Denplan’.

NOC595 12-11

Health& B

Just take two…

What can you do in a couple of minutes? There are lots of ways of spending 120 seconds, but you should make one of them brushing your teeth, advises Pauline Gates, hygienist at Esthetique Dental Practice in Shropshire How often sHould I brusH my teetH? It is important to get into a regular habit of good oral hygiene, in particular, regular teeth brushing and cleaning between teeth. Plaque builds up quickly (even if you haven’t eaten anything) and so it’s important to brush regularly. If plaque is left to build up it will cause gum disease and your gums will become red and sore and bleed easily. you should brush your teeth twice a day. use a toothbrush with a small head which should be renewed regularly.

Innovative Cyanoacrylate Surgical Glue treatment (no anaesthesia, bandaging or stocking) Endovenous Laser & Foam Sclerotherapy Treatment in less than an hour by Mr S Dimitri Over 95% success rate Immediate return to normal activity No general anaesthesia, groin incision or hospitalisation Facial vein treatment Veinwave and Microsclerotherapy for thread veins Treatment for breast veins Treatment for vulval and vaginal varicosities and pelvic congestion syndrome For an appointment with Mr Dimitri at the Nuffield Hospital Chester, Spire Murrayfield or Spire Cheshire Hospitals please call 07887 793620

C1971Mm

How do I brusH my teetH? At esthetique dental we recommend an electric toothbrush. However, if you use a manual toothbrush you should avoid a backwards and forwards motion as this can wear away the gums and cause gum recession. A circular motion is better. you should brush for at least two minutes and make sure you have cleaned all the surfaces of your teeth. use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on the brush. As obvious as it may sound, you teeth should feel clean when you have finished. wHAt else sHould I use? If you only brush your teeth with a toothbrush and don’t clean in between, you are missing a third of your teeth. Also use: Interdental brushes – these look like mini bottle brushes and are used to clean in between teeth; Floss – this is also used to clean in between teeth; Mouthwash – this is not a substitute for brushing teeth, but can be used as an adjunct to freshen breath. At esthetique dental we believe good oral hygiene is the foundation for a healthy mouth. we strongly recommend regular visits to see our hygienist to help you achieve excellent oral health. For more information call 01939 211150 or visit us online at www.esthetiquedental.co.uk

Health and beauty myths BruSH your TEETH AfTEr EvEry MEAL

Many dentists now believe that immediate brushing – particularly after eating acidic foods such as citrus fruits – can strip tooth enamel weakened by the acid. However, good dental hygiene is important (see left): just wait for at least an hour after eating before scrubbing your pearly whites

The most important two minutes of your day, luxury treats, the healing power of hens and how to get perfect pins

GrAPEfruIT BurnS fAT

unfortunately, this is not true. no food will physically burn those troublesome fat cells. Grapefruit is undoubtedly a good source of vitamins and fibre – and with only 40 calories in half a medium-sized fruit it’s the perfect snack for dieters – but it does not contain the mythical ‘special enzyme’ said to digest fat... and that’s the bitter truth!

GIn AnD TonIC DETErS MoSquIToES

Beauty

oh, if only this were true! The myth dates back to colonial India where the British would drink quinine-laden tonic water to ward off mosquito-borne malaria. nowadays, the amount of quinine in tonic is much lower so the likelihood of it thwarting marauding mozzies is pretty low. The best protection against these whiny pests is a shopbought repellent, a long sleeved shirt and a rolled up newspaper!

An apple a day… …keeps the doctor away, they say, and Apley Farm Shop near Bridgnorth in Shropshire is aiming to make sure the children at a local football academy steer clear of the surgery by supplying them with 70 apples a week. Idsall School in Shifnal and Apley have teamed up with Activ8, a provider of in-school, after-school and school holiday sports activities to help teach children healthy eating habits which complement the sport training they receive. Owner of Apley Farm Shop Lord Hamilton said: ‘English apples are fresh off the trees right now and at Apley, we have plenty of apples so it’s a great project for us to be involved with.’ Dan Wilson of Activ8 said: ‘I’m sure the parents and childcarers will appreciate seeing their children come home with Apley’s apples.’ For information about Apley Farm Shop visit www.apleyfarmshop.co.uk or call 01952 730345. For information about Activ8 visit their website ar www. activ8education.co.uk or call 01952 790770.

High standards at Pendine Park

Did You know? There are more than 7,500 different kinds of apple tree in the world. That’s an awful lot of apple crumbles!

Wales’s Minister for Health and Social Services, Mark Drakeford, praised Pendine Park’s high standards’ of infection control when he visited Bodlondeb Dementia Care Centre in Wrexham. As well as meeting residents, family and staff, Mr Drakeford presented three Semmelweis awards to staff who had excelled in new, on-thejob, infection control training. The awards are inspired by Ignaz Phillip Semmelweis, a physician and early pioneer of antiseptic procedures. Described as the ‘saviour of mothers’, Semmelweis discovered the incidence of puerperal fever could be drastically cut by the use of hand disinfection in birth clinics. Mr Drakeford said: ‘I was very pleased to visit the Pendine Park Care Home to see for myself the high standards they have adopted, and to congratulate the staff on their hard work and success.’ Bodlondeb is designed around safe central gardens and is surrounded by gardens and countryside. Each eight-bed family-feel unit is individually staffed, with lounges for relaxation and communal living. Mr Drakeford was presented with a picture by a resident as a reminder of this visit. For more information visit www.pendinepark.com or call 01978 720242.

5 of the best... Luxury body treatments

Christmas can be a stressful time, especially for mums, so give yourself an indulgent, luxury body treat, whose effects will last long after you’ve rubbed it in… Aqua Oleum After Dark Body/Massage Oil, £7.75 Scented with sandalwood and jasmine – known as ‘queen of the night’, because the scent is stronger after dark – this natural oil is rich and sensuous, profoundly uplifting and creates smooth, silky skin. www.aqua-oleum.co.uk VOYA Softly Does It, £26 A silky blend of wild seaweed extracts and organic essential oils of basil, lime, patchouli, clove, mandarin and lemon for a natural, deep moisturising experience. Plus, it can help prevent signs of ageing and cellulite and improve skin tone and elasticity. www.voya.ie Ark Loving Body Butter, £24 Comforting and uplifting, this sumptuous lotion smells like Christmas, with a blend of florals, green and citrus notes, peppered with cinnamon, clove and bay spices and frankincense and myrrh, all of which cocoon you in an emotionally warming glow. www.arksincare.com St Kitt’s Herbery Rosemary and Bergamot Moisture Lotion, £11.95 Light but luxurious, this lovely, silky lotion is stuffed with active botanicals and is quickly absorbed, leaving your skin fragranced with the delicious scent of rosemary and bergamot. www. stkittsherbery.co.uk Neom Time to Unwind Bath & Shower Oil, £40 This powerful stress relieving treatment contains a blend of 12 natural oils, coupled with a rose and a bluebell fragrance to help you unwind and focus. And you’re left smelling like a day in spring. www. neomorganics.com

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 117

Health&Beauty

All in vein Anybody who suffers from varicose or thread veins knows how unsightly and inhibiting they can be. But now there’s no need to let varicose veins stop you from wearing shorts or mini skirts, and it is possible to say goodbye to heavy makeup for hiding thread veins. Vein Solutions, a Cheshire-based private service, specialises in modern techniques for the treatment of varicose and thread veins. Sameh Dimitri, consultant vascular surgeon at the service, says: ‘The latest, state-of-theart techniques for treating veins are really exciting, and they can be carried out without the need for general anaesthesia. VenaSeal glue injections are a revolutionary treatment, not yet widely available, and you don’t need local anaesthetic or to wear compression stockings after treatment.’ Vein Solutions also offers procedures such as endovenous laser therapy (EVLT), foam sclerotherapy and radio frequency ablation of veins (VNUS). ‘The great thing about these techniques is that they are minimally invasive,’ says Mr Dimitri. ‘They can be undertaken with a local anaesthetic – if required – meaning we can offer a walk-in, walk-out service in about an hour.’ The clinic also offers treatment for thread veins with the use of microsclerotherapy and Veinwave techniques, among other vein treatments. For more details and a price list, call 0800 043 1997 or visit www. veinsolutions.co.uk

Henpower to the people A Shropshire care provider has welcomed some new residents to its homes – a brood of chickens that are helping to improve people’s health and wellbeing. Coverage Care has introduced its flock of feathered friends at Barleyfields House in Shrewsbury and Lightmoor View in Telford to stimulate and engage residents, especially those with dementia. The scheme is now being rolled out across Coverage Care’s other homes across Shropshire. The project started with a brood of Speckled Pekin chicks – a miniature breed known for its friendly disposition and love of being handled, making it ideal for older people and those with dementia. Residents help to feed and look after the hens and collect the eggs, which are then used in the homes’ kitchens. David Coull, chief executive of Coverage Care, says: ‘Pets and companion animals in residential homes bring great benefits to elderly residents and people with learning disabilities. ‘It has also been proven that people suffering with dementia-related conditions benefit from the presence of animals. It can a great distraction and help to reduce anxiety as well as giving families and visitors something to focus on.’ Visit www.coveragecareservices.co.uk

Beauty insider

ith the clocks turned back, the days too short, and so little sunlight to be seen, it can be tempting to snatch a bit more shuteye in the morning by shaving a few minutes off your beauty routine and skipping your SPF. Don’t give in to that temptation ladies… It is still a commonly held misbelief that it’s sunshine that causes skin damage and premature ageing. It’s not: it’s daylight, of any quality. Doesn’t matter if it’s raining, snowing, misty, cloudy or hailing, those damaging UVA rays are still getting through, and your skin still needs protection. Even if you’re inside all day, UVA rays penetrate window glass, so it’s important to keep up your SPF all day, every day – and 15 is not enough. Obviously, though, you want a different sort of formula in winter from summer, and if you’re still determined to grab those extra few minutes in bed, the Carer Lorraine Hollins, resident best thing is to choose an Audrey Whittaker – and hen! effective multi-tasking product. One I’ve mentioned before is Spending time with Clinique’s Even animals, as it helps Better Dark Spot Defense alleviate stress, has been (£26, www. By Stephanie Anne Lloyd correlated to lower blood clinique.com), It’s too late to do this for any child who has already lost all of their baby teeth but you can a silky-textured pressure and increased do something really special for your future descendants. lotion with a Glaucoma and macular degeneration are the major causes of loss of sight and, as inherited odds of survival after a suits-all tint and diseases, tend to be passed down through families – but you can save future generations from an SPF of 45. heart attack suffering these conditions. A medical breakthrough now Eve Taylor’s enables stem cells to be taken from baby teeth to be stored and Moisturising Solar used in later life to prevent hereditary sight loss. Shield (£11.59, www. eve-taylor.com) is a And the news gets better, as it will soon be possible to use rich, emollient cream with a these stem cells to cure other hereditary conditions such as diabetes, nourishing base of sunflower immunity disorders, liver and heart problems. It will cost you £5 per month to and cocoa butter, that does store baby teeth stem cells and there are now suitable storage facilities in the UK. exactly what it says on the tin, You can also now store your own lipo stem cells which can be used to treat 85 soothing dried-out skin and separate medical conditions. protecting with an SPF of 25. The good news is that the stem cell banks are a lot more reliable than the high If you’re happy with your street ones, and £5 a month seems a better insurance deal than the one being skincare regime, and don’t promoted by Michael Parkinson – although you won’t get a free Parker pen… want anything else being Visit www.uk.bioeden.com, www.cells4life.co.uk or www.futurehealthbiobank.co.uk absorbed into your skin, try a non-chemical sunblock – I recommend Liquid Layer by Elemis (£27, www.timetospa. co.uk), an award-winning, feather-light, broad-spectrum barrier made with titanium All you guys out there who wish you could give up the chore of shaving have the perfect excuse dioxide and packing an SPF of 30. to do just that during November – or ‘Movember’ as the month has been (officially) renamed by Don’t forget your lips during the men’s health campaign of the same name. Men are notoriously rubbish about talking about winter too – cold winds their health, and with this in mind the Movember campaign was begun some years ago to raise and harsh winter sunlight awareness of men’s health issues and to generate funds for vitally needed research. are major triggers for cold Movember is about bringing back the moustache (mo), having fun, and doing good to change sores, so if you suffer from the face of men’s health – specifically prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health. this nasty little virus, make You can help by becoming a ‘Mo Bro’: all you have to do is grow a moustache during sure you keep your lips November, and ask friends and family to sponsor your new facial decoration. The idea is that protected. I love Korres’s the moustache is like a ribbon – it’s a way of generating conversations, awareness and raising Mandarin Lip Butter Sticks funds for men’s health. And it’s just good fun to have a ’tache… (£8, www.debenhams. Real men grow real moustaches for Movember. Thin and wispy or thick and full – the size of com), which are flavoured your mo’ doesn’t matter as long as you play by the official rules: no beards or goatees. with orange oil, have an SPF of For more information on how to donate or take part, visit uk.movember.com 15 and come in five surprisingly rich tints, so you get comfort, protection and colour all in one.

Do something special for your grandchildren

Must have a moustache

118 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

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HEALTH

A personalised care We speak to Sue Jones, director of Spire Yale Hospital in north Wales, about the different ways patients can be treated at their private hospital heart problem which means we need to consult a cardiologist before undertaking general anaesthetic, or unusual blood antibodies, which mean specific bloods need to be stored in the case of transfusions. Q: How much is an initial consultation? A: Depending on the consultant, it is £150-£200. For the procedures themselves, we offer a large variety of treatments, the most common being knee or hip operations. The prices for most procedures can be found on the Spire Yale website, at www. spireyale.com

Q: How do patients get to be treated at Spire Yale? A: Spire Yale customers are either customers of a private health insurance scheme, or self pay patients. We deal with all the health insurers, not just Bupa. Q: What happens if I’m a self pay patient and I need further treatment following the original procedure? A: Through the self pay packages, we offer a guaranteed price. Once they have seen the consultant and had their pre-op assessment patients know there is one price to pay. This also covers any additional care or treatment that might be needed after the operation. This guarantee used to be for 30 days for any required follow up treatment, but now it is no longer timelimited as long as any issues are directly related to the original procedure. This takes away any concerns patients may have about paying for their care. Q: What is the first step for paying for a procedure? A: Patients come to see us or call to arrange an initial meeting with the consultant who will arrange any necessary diagnostics. After this, we give a price for the procedure, which would only change in the unlikely event that something unusual was picked up in the pre-op assessment. An example of this might be a

Q: Do prices vary much? A: It depends on the complexity of the case, and on what type of equipment or prosthetic is to be used. For example, a younger, more active person might need a harder wearing prosthetic for a knee replacement, and this may cost more. In all cases, the patients discuss the most suitable type of prosthetic with their consultant as different types and materials are suitable for different people in differing cases. A hip replacement will cost in the region of £9,200 to £12,500 for a self-pay patient, and a knee replacement will cost between £10,000 and £11,000. Q: Are finance packages available? A: We offer 0% finance for 12 months, with a payment of 25% in the beginning, which is a great way of spreading the cost into manageable monthly bills. Q: Are you seeing new procedures becoming popular? A: One big difference is the rise in hip impingement operations. This is done by arthroscopy, so is minimally invasive, and has been shown to be effective when patients are experiencing groin pain – it’s a fairly common complaint with sports people such as rowers, riders and cyclists.

Q: For insured patients, how does it work? A: We deal with every insurer. There is now a new product underwritten by April UK – the InSpire Medical Insurance. Patients taking out this product use Spire hospitals only and prices are usually competitive. Q: How does it work for cosmetic procedures? A: Most cosmetic procedures are elective, the most common being breast augmentation or tummy tucks. Cosmetic procedures are not covered by insurance and patients can be seen at the Yale hospital or at our consulting rooms in Abergele. Q: We hear there are developments afoot at Abergele – what can you tell us? A: We are just about to launch the Spire North Wales Cosmetic Suite in new premises that are part of the Spire Abergele site. The suite is for non-surgical and aesthetic treatments – such as wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, dermabrasion, laser hair removal, chemical peels, etc. There will also be spa-type treatments using the Elemis range of products. This new clinic is purpose built, with free parking and is regulated under the Spire umbrella. The quality assurance and safety standards have to be the absolute highest. The service is nurse practitioner led and all staff are fully trained. In addition, being part of Spire Healthcare ensures that referral to a consultant for any medical issues or problems that may require surgical intervention can be easily accessed, eg dermatalogy, veins, cosmetic surgery and maxilla-facial. Q: What other news do you have at Spire? A: We have a new x-ray suite here in Wrexham, which is fantastic. The all digital equipment generates better quality images. In addition the suite has a blue sky ceiling panel which is more relaxing for patients. 2014 has been the busiest year ever for Spire Yale Hospital and Spire Abergele Consulting Rooms and we continue to invest in the business and our employees. y

‘We are proud of our reputation for being warm, professional and caring. We recognise that everyone is different and therefore treat all our patients as individuals, we respect your wishes and provide personalised care throughout your hospital journey’ Sue Jones

01978 262462 www.spireyale.com November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 123

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HEALTH ADVICE

A Helping Hand We talk to Marck van Liefland, a consultant upper limb surgeon at The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital in Oswestry, about what the Hand and Upper Limb Unit do to help patients ‘With a regional block anaesthetic, patients can stay awake during their operation. The benefit of not being put to sleep is that patients recover quicker on the day of the operation and are less likely to suffer from sickness. If they want they can also watch the procedure on a screen, which gives them a much better understanding of the problem that is being corrected. We find this leads to a better recovery. ‘Within the Menzies Unit, we can offer these procedures as day case surgery. Significant future changes at the RJAH include the expansion of the main theatres, with more operating theatres to treat day-case patients. This route for treatment is better all round – patients recover better in the comfort of their own homes and it reduces waiting times for procedures.’

Dupuytren’s disease

‘A

t the Hand and Upper Limb unit, we treat every condition from the shoulder down; this includes keyhole surgery, shoulder replacements and complex nerve- and jointreconstructions. I work as part of a team of eight surgeons, all with expertise in their field.’

Keyhole shoulder surgery ‘Most shoulder surgery, for example treating instability following dislocation, decompression of impingement or repairing wear and tear on the rotator cuff, is routinely performed through the keyhole. The rotator cuff is a layer of muscles that stabilises the ball of the shoulder into the socket – these muscles can fail due to the ageing process, physical overhead work or sporting accidents. Many can be treated with care and physiotherapy, but some may need repair, and these are mostly performed through keyhole, ‘arthroscopic surgery’, without any damage to the surrounding muscles and with barely visible scars. Our dedicated team of specialist shoulder physiotherapists support the patient throughout their recovery.

Dupuytren’s disease affects the reinforcing tissues directly under the skin of the palm of the hand and fingers. The patient’s fingers contract, which makes it very difficult for them to use their hand normally, or wear gloves. This can run in families, and we typically see patients in their 50s and 60s. ‘The majority of cases are treated by means of surgery, where the contracted cord is resected under an anaesthetic. This results in a small scar and while this heals the fingers have to be splinted for a number of weeks, whilst the patient is supported by our hand therapists. ‘For mild contractures however, we have adopted a new treatment; injections of Xiapex. This is an enzyme that breaks down the diseased tissue that causes the contracture and near complete correction can be achieved under local anaesthetic in an outpatient setting. A splint is required for a short period at night only and the need for hand therapy reduced. Although the injection method is less thorough than surgery and return of the contracture more common after a few years, in selected cases it achieves a good correction in a short time with far less effort and disability and a rapid return to normal activities.’

‘There is a lot happening in terms of developing the facilities here, and the demand is increasing’

Shoulder replacement for arthritis ‘Like in the hip and knee, shoulder replacements are commonplace nowadays. They abolish the pain and improve the patient’s movement and quality of life with daily activities. We now see several of these procedures each week in our unit. Our unit champions a short-stemmed implant, which preserves most of the existing, living bone, whilst mimicking normal anatomy and giving excellent results. ‘For cases complicated by muscle loss, I use an ‘upside-down’ prosthesis where the ball and socket swap places. This creates a mechanical advantage for the remaining muscles that help pull the ball into the socket, which improves pain, stability and function where there are no other options to help the patient.’

Working at the RJAH ‘For complex cases we will often operate with a colleague. Because this is a specialist orthopaedic hospital, it’s easy to consult with colleagues. It is also a very dynamic place. There is a lot happening in terms of developing the facilities here and the demand we see from patients in the region is ever increasing. y

Marck van Liefland MD, FRCS Orth, MSc Orthopaedic Engineering Offers an extensive range of conservative and surgical treatments for all shoulder, elbow and hand problems, including joint replacements for arthritis, carpal tunnel, trigger finger, Dupuytren’s correction, keyhole surgery for shoulder and elbow. Mr van Liefland graduated from the renowned medical school of Leiden in the Netherlands. Following a year of research for his MD at the University of Bonn in Germany, he started his surgical training in the UK. After posts in plastics and hand surgery he started his orthopaedic specialty training in Wales, completed by joining the Oswestry training programme, where he has been a consultant for seven years.

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 125

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Top of the class From outdoor activities to academic accolades and sporting success… All the latest news and achievements from our local schools

Let’s learn outside! Fresh air and learning are both good for children – and pupils at Abberley Hall are now getting both at the same time, with the launch of the school’s outdoor classrooms. The new Outdoor Education and Forest School area has facilities for literacy and numeracy lessons, music and drama performances, practical design and technology sessions, cookery and overnight stays. ‘It has become very much part of the normal school week to take classes in this woodland environment and they take place in all weathers throughout the year,’ said Mr Bennett-Tomlin, outdoor education do-ordinator at Abberley Hall. ‘Our handson learning approach may take the pupils out of the classroom, but it is linked to many areas and subjects of the national curriculum. Allowing the children to explore and WORK EXPERIENCE! experience the natural environment for Fancy a career as a journalist? themselves builds their independence, If you’d like to do some work confidence, self-esteem, motivation experience in the fun and friendly and concentration as well as social and physical skills.’ Yattar Yattar office and get a The outdoor area is overseen by a real taste of the world of editorial team of staff who are qualified Forest production – we promise it won’t School leaders. Visit www.abberleyhall. be boring! – email us at co.uk or call 01299 896275.

editorial@yattaryattar.co.uk

Academy achievement Sir John Talbot’s School in

A time for celebration

Abbeygate College celebrated a number of achievements this autumn, not least at the annual Speech Day and Prize Giving Award Ceremony at Chester Racecourse, when pupils, parents, staff, governors and guests celebrated the full range of academic and personal achievements of pupils at the College. During the prize giving, the college also presented a cheque for more than £17,000 to Karen Johnson from the GEM Appeal, Abbeygate's nominated charity last year. Staff raised money by being sponsored to take part in the Chester half marathon in May and pupils, staff and parents have helped to raise this significant sum during a number of events throughout the year.

Good sports

The college enjoyed sporting success, too, with the 1st team winning the Chester Schools 7-a-side football tournament trophy. The squad won all their games, including 3-1 defeats of King’s and Queen’s Park and a 1-0 defeat of Bishops’ in the group stages. A hard fought 1-0 win against Catholic High in the semi-final led to a re-match against King’s in the final and while the contest was closer second time around, Abbeygate were worthy 1-0 winners. Visit www.abbeygatecollege. co.uk or call 01244 332077.

Whitchurch, Shropshire, started a new chapter in its history this term, as it opened its doors to staff and students as an academy. Along with this exciting development comes the formal and permanent appointment of new headteacher David O’Toole, who has been acting headteacher since March 2013. With The Marches Academy Trust as sponsor, Sir John Talbot’s will continue to receive support and guidance from The Marches School. The formalisation of this collaborative partnership between the two schools will facilitate further growth and development.

Going from strength to strength

Recently rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted, the school has been going from strength to strength over recent months and in addition to welcoming back existing students and the new Year 7 and 12 intake, David has also recruited eight new members of teaching staff and one new member to the associate staff team. ‘I am excited for the future of Sir John Talbot’s School and am delighted and honoured to begin the permanent role as headteacher,’ said David. ‘We have achieved some huge milestones over the past 18 months, including rapidly improved GCSE results and acknowledgement from Ofsted. The school really does sit at the centre of the Whitchurch community and I am confident that these recent developments and successes will ensure SJT is the school of choice for parents and children in the Whitchurch area.’ Visit www. sirjohntalbots.co.uk or call 01948 660600.

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 127

EDUCATION

Talent to the fore

New head and new look for prep school

Ellesmere College has launched a new Golf Academy following the outstanding success A new headmaster, Julian Noad, is at the helm of Oswestry School of its Rugby, Tennis, Shooting and Cricket as a new academic year gets under way. Julian, who graduated as Academies. The new programme is a unique an engineer from Southampton University before qualifying as partnership between the college and the Keith a teacher, is a man of many talents, from his experience of farm Williams Golf Academy at Hawkstone Park. management to yacht racing, including two Fastnet Races. He An established centre of golf education, has had significant experience in both teaching and management Hawkstone Park was also recently voted one of within preparatory and senior schools and is an enthusiastic the top 20 golf holiday destinations in the world. rugby coach and supporter as well as a keen all-round sportsman. The Ellesmere Golf Academy will provide Julian joins the school at an exciting time with the scholarship opportunities for keen golfers – completion of the refurbishment of its preparatory school, boys and girls – with varying handicaps to join Bellan House. Every classroom now has a separate teaching and the school. The academy resource/creative area, plus interactive projector and ipad. will allow individuals to Room improvements compete for their own Other improvements include a new bank of laptops connected to golf clubs in county the school’s online learning and communications platform; a new competitions but also Reception classroom with access to its own outside space; a new experience British Schools hall and dance studio with sprung floor; a dedicated library; and a welcoming reception area. Golf Tournaments. Solar panels have been installed here and on the School’s recently refurbished heated indoor Ian Williams, director swimming pool, and together they are generating enough electricity to heat the pool and reduce of sport at Ellesmere, running costs across both sites. said: ‘The academy is Julian said: ‘I am thrilled to have joined Oswestry School. The opportunity to be involved available to all standards with such a school is a singular honour – it is a very special place to live and work. I look of players. Its purpose is forward to leading Oswestry in the next stage of its development.’ to allow individual pupils Bellan House will be open as part of the School’s Founder’s Day celebrations on 29th to develop their academic November. Visit www.oswestryschool.org.uk or call 01691 681104. and sporting talents to a level not normally supported in schools.’ Pupils will receive up to 24 weeks’ coaching, which will include course management and tactical skills, performance management, statistical analysis and physical and mental development. The longest golf course Visit www. ellesmere.com in the world is the or call 01691 international golf club 626510.

Did you know…?

located in Massachussetts, at 7,600 metres – that's nearly five miles!

Gold standard

Seven Abbotsholme School graduates met His Royal Highness Prince Edward this autumn, when they visited London to be presented with their Gold Duke of Edinburgh awards. Some of the pupils had gone overseas as part of the award, and some did it in their canoes. When asked whether they managed to canoe the entire time, they did admit to having to carry the boat at times, while those who had decided to walk mentioned the snow they faced, which seemed to impress His Royal Highness. Rebecca Winbow said on behalf of the students: ‘We would like to thank Joy Holmes who worked tirelessly to keep us on track and organised, and Rory Sellar without whose support we could not have completed this monumental activity. We really appreciated all of their efforts, as well as putting up with our moaning in the cold weather; we can’t thank you enough.’ Abbotsholme students have now achieved 85 Gold Duke of Edinburgh awards in total. Visit www.abbotsholme.co.uk or call 01889 590217.

128 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

Further success for Coleg Menai Coleg Menai hosted a glittering further education ‘Celebrating Success 2014’ achievers awards ceremony recently. The event was held at Caernarfon’s Celtic Royal Hotel to celebrate the achievements of more than 50 of the college’s outstanding further education learners. The victorious students were nominated by their tutors and received their awards for excellence, or motivation and commitment. Each achiever received a certificate and a cheque or prize worth £100, thanks to the generous sponsorship of business people and organisations who injected nearly £4,000 into the prize pool. The Overall Winner, receiving the title of ‘Coleg Menai Student of the Year’, was automotive engineering learner Jamie Aitken of Llanerchymedd. Also among the winners was information technology learner Abby Roberts (pictured), who won Overall Best Achievement in Performance and Media.

Scholarship win

Also celebrating this autumn was Ifan Williams, a former pupil of the college, who won the 2014 Professor Ieuan R Jones Memorial Scholarship, netting him £2,000 to go towards his university costs. The scholarship is available to A-level physics students studying at the Coleg MeirionDwyfor’s Pwllheli Campus and was put in place to help fund talented individuals. Ifan is now continuing to study Physics at Durham University. Visit www.gllm.ac.uk or call 01248 383333.

EDUCATION

Mixing it up

Taking art to heart

Students at The Firs School are getting an Fourteen members of staff and 126 Year 7 opportunity to demonstrate their creative students from The Marches School headed talents to the public in November, when to north Wales for a weekend of activities at the school sponsors the Art in Education the Colomendy Centre, near Mold, recently. programme at the Chester Arts Fair at Chester The annual trip provides a rewarding Racecourse from 21st-23rd November 2014. experience for the students, who take part The Firs will be exhibiting some of in a weekend packed its pupils’ best works alongside that with multi-activity of professional artists and commercial challenges, initiating galleries. This is the second year in which the new friendships, as school has sponsored the fair. well as developing Throughout the school year pupils are their team building encouraged to bring together their ideas and take part in music workshops as well as printing, and leadership skills. painting, collage and sculpture sessions linked to specific artists. They have produced a variety Students challenged of works that are either on permanent display inside the school building or out in the grounds. each other, as well Some of the children’s work has also been shortlisted for the national Independent Schools as themselves, on the Association Art Competition after winning through the Northern finals. aerial trekking course The Firs School headteacher, Lucy Davies, said: ‘We are really pleased to be able to sponsor and worked in teams the Art in Education programme at Chester Arts Fair again this year. Art is incredibly to complete a number important for a child’s development and we work hard of tasks. to ensure a great, year-round programme of art related Andy Hall, transition activities at The Firs. Our involvement in the fair will be director at The a highlight in our calendar.’ Marches said: ‘This weekend trip is And in other news… instrumental in laying The school’s newly formed football team took home the Kings the foundations for a positive ethos within Tournament Plate Trophy, beating teams from Ewloe Green, the new year group. The students had great Ashton Hayes, Fairholme, Duddon and The King’s School. fun and have come back to school with Meanwhile, a great day was had by all at the recent some lovely memories.’ open morning when parents and children Back on campus, the school participated in a language taster session in recently unveiled the newly the IT suite, tried out the big puzzle renovated ‘Arthur Walpole challenge, watched a pottery If you'd like your Building’ , which has been demonstration and listened named in honour of the long school to feature in the to music performed by The standing chair of governors. Firs School choir. In the art next issue of Yattar The building, previously a department they tried their care home, has undergone Yattar, email us with hand drawing the other side of a full refurbishment and is your news at editorial@ faces and admired scenes from now home to new sixth form the children’s summer holidays. facilities, training centre and yattaryattar.co.uk Visit www.firsschool.net or a spacious reception area. call 01244 322443. Visit www.marchesschool.co.uk or call 01691 664400.

‘Adventure is the key’ says Queen’s new headmistress The new headmistress of The Queen’s Lower School plans to make adventure a fundamental thread running through her school curriculum. From learning algebra in Year 6 to tackling Mandarin in Reception, Rachel Cookson intends to ensure that every lesson is a fizz of excitement, challenge and adventure. Rachel joined Queen’s Lower School, on Liverpool Road, in September. She had previously been head of Pre-Prep at Terra Nova Independent School in Holmes Chapel. Her vision builds on the already excellent work that takes place at Queen’s Lower School, which has been designated an Advanced Confucius Classroom – and now infants will be receiving Mandarin lessons with a Chinese Hanban teacher, iPad apps, books, toys and musical resources to help them get a real flavour of the country and the language. Continuing the China connection, two pupils from the school have won prizes in a national photography competition for

130 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

photographs taken on a school trip to China. Eleanor Wood Bowyer, 14, from Wrexham, won the ‘Impressions’ Portfolio Photograph category and Sophia Hilton, 14, from Chester, was runner-up in the ‘Unexpected China’ single photograph competition.

Outdoor learning

In other news, pupils aged from four to eleven will soon be able to make use of brand new outdoor learning environments around the school’s grounds, including an outdoor theatre, classroom, gazebo, climbing equipment, a covered all-weather play area, a ‘mud kitchen’ and a ball sports area for football and cricket. Rachel says: ‘It is a great honour to lead this school into its next phase, building on the creative foundations set by my predecessor Mrs Taylor. I am passionate about schools’ learning environments as I believe they are central to success. It starts with bricks and mortar and good facilities but more important are fantastic teaching and support staff who are creative in their use of these spaces and see learning opportunities in everything. Thankfully I am blessed in this respect. I am very excited about the future for Queen’s.’ Visit www.queens.cheshire.sch.uk or call 01244 312078.

EDUCATION

Drive for success

Packwood team riding high

For the last nine months, 14 girls aged 11 to16 from Shrewsbury The equestrian team at Shropshire prep school Packwood Haugh High School have been busy building an electric car. It has been is celebrating after qualifying to compete in four classes at the a real labour of love for the girls who have used lunch hours and National Schools Equestrian after-school time to build the car, which has an aluminium Association championships chassis and is powered by two 12V batteries, from scratch. later this term. The event And earlier this term, the girls’ efforts came to fruition when the will be held at the prestigious Shrewsbury High School Electric Car team competed in their first Addington Equestrian Greenpower competition at Aintree Motor Racing Circuit. As the Centre in Buckinghamshire only such team in Shropshire and one of only a few all-girl teams and Packwood will compete nationally, it was a hugely exciting moment for all involved to against teams from schools finally get the car to the starting line. throughout the country. The team participated in a practice session and two races Four of Packwood’s judged on the team qualified for the distance covered 80cm Jumping with Style in 90 minutes. at an event in the summer Completing all term and in the autumn sessions and their teammates took recording a total part in another qualifying distance of more competition at South View in than 20 miles Cheshire aiming to emulate that achievement. in the second Year 8 pupil Eliza Rosselli set the tone for what was to prove a race, the team very successful weekend for Packwood. She completed a faultless were delighted clear round in the 70cm Jumping with Style and the other members with their of the team also rode superbly to ensure victory in the class and performance. As a new team, actually completing both races automatic qualification. There was the added bonus of an individual was a major achievement in itself. second place for Sebastian Marmont. The girls will now modify the car to make it more competitive In the Show Jumping classes, the 70cm team qualified thanks to and possibly look at building a second car for the 16- to 18-yeargreat rounds from Heath Rosselli, Jonty Bright, Paddy Barlow and old category. They are looking for sponsorship for the 2015 Emily McParland, with Emily also achieving individual second. And season and are hoping to get more classmates involved in what the day got even better when Sebastian Marmont, Eliza Rosselli, has traditionally been seen as a sport for the boys! Lily Freeman-Attwood and Paddy Barlow also qualified for the 80cm Shrewsbury High School has been shortlisted in the Independent team Show Jumping. School of the Year Awards for Packwood’s head of riding, Jenny Bright, said: the second year running. ‘I am so proud of all our riders. Despite early A Sixth Form Information starts they were beautifully turned out, polite Did You Know? Evening takes place on and composed. One weekend, three more 10th November and Electric cars cost more to buy, but qualifications. Congratulations to all and the Prep School Open are much cheaper to run. If you roll on the championships!’ Morning is on 18th are driving 40 miles a day, you Packwood Haugh is holding an Open November. morning for the Pre-prep (Acorns) on 30th are probably spending around Visit www. January, 2015 and an Open day for the £150 a month in petrol bills. The shrewsburyhigh.gdst. Prep School on 31st January. Visit www. equivalent cost to run an electric net or call 01743 packwood-haugh.co.uk or call 01939 260217. car this distance is only in the 494038.

region of £10-15.

Sporting success at Moreton Hall

Poppy project under way

Students from the art department at Walford and North Shropshire College (WNSC) are producing ceramic poppies for an art installation for the World War One Centenary this November. There will be a total of 53 poppies in total, one for each of the 53 men of the Cambrian Railways who fought and died in the war. Once fired and glazed the poppies will form an art installation in the grounds of WNSC in time for remembrance. Art tutor Kate Smallwood said: ‘This is a great way of getting the students creatively involved in the commemorative celebrations of the centenary, as well as being involved with the local community.’ Andrew Tullo, of Cambrian Heritage Railways, said : ‘We are pleased that Walford students are showing their respect to the railway men who gave their lives.’ Visit www.wnsc.ac.uk or call 01691 688000.

Already ranked third in the UK at the 2014 Nationals, Moreton Hall’s First Lacrosse Team have now been crowned U19s North Schools’ Champions for 2014, and so will go on to the national tournament in 2015. The school has also been successful in making the Shropshire County Lacrosse squads. Trials for the Shropshire Lacrosse team were held at Moreton Hall on 15th October and 12 Moreton girls were selected to represent Shropshire in the A squad plus a further seven in the B squad for the intercounty tournament on 9th November. Meanwhile, the hockey team has qualified once again for the Midlands Regional Hockey Tournament. The girls made the finals in the Shropshire U18 County Tournament, fending off several local rivals in the process.

Bronwen Scholarship now available

A new scholarship opportunity has been created in memory of Bronwen Lloyd-Williams – a former pupil of the school and its principal for many years. The Bronwen Scholarship will be awarded to girls for entry into Years 5, 6, 7 or 8 with outstanding academic potential or exceptional talents in Art, Music, Sport or Drama. The awards may amount to up to 100 per cent of fees. In addition the school holds formal Scholarship and Entrance Examination days on 15th and 16th and 22nd and 23rd January. Visit the school website: www.moretonhall.org or call 01691 773671 to find out more.

November/December 2014 yattaryattar magazine 133

FOSTERING

Give the best present ever

You could give a child new hope and a new start in life, by offering to take them into your home, whether long or short term. Fostering is challenging but rewarding – and can change a young person’s life. What could be a better gift?

hristmas is supposed to be one of the happiest times of the year, especially for children, but for many youngsters, separated from their families through circumstances beyond their control, the festive season can be a painful and difficult time. But fostering a child of any age is a very rewarding experience, and foster care is the best way to provide the stability and support that children need when they are unable to live at home with their own family, whether long-term or simply as a respite for their carer. immense satisfaction Carole began fostering last October because she missed being a parent. She and her husband Phil have found fostering challenging and rewarding. ‘We’ve become more active, met new people and have learnt new things,’ says Carole.

And of course there is immense satisfaction in seeing how your care can help. ‘Seeing our young person starting to achieve things that had not been possible before has been amazing,’ says Carole. ‘It’s very rewarding when they start to talk about their achievements and to evaluate them.’ Lisa, meanwhile, started fostering 11 years ago, and now fosters full time. ‘I decided to become a foster carer so I could help to give children a more normal and stable home,’ says Lisa. ‘It’s lovely to see them change and grow once they’re in a safe environment. Fostering a child is always rewarding, even with a child with challenging behaviour. You can help them turn their life around and it’s lovely to have a part in that. My husband and I have three children of our own, and fostering is an important and enjoyable part of our life.’ Lisa currently has two brothers aged four

and three living with her family. They spent Christmas with the foster family last year and, says Lisa: ‘The boys were aware of Father Christmas but had no concept of presents. But this year they’ve already started planning and talking about their Christmas wishes.’ The need for more people to provide children with safe homes while they’re unable to live with their own families is greater than ever. If, like Carole and Lisa, you could offer a home to a young person or child, contact Wrexham’s Foster Care team. Like the children and young people they care for, carers come from all walks of life. All you need is understanding, patience and commitment. Wrexham offers round the clock support to its foster carers and allowances to cover the costs of fostering. y Contact Ann at the Wrexham fostering team on 0800 783 0618, or visit their website www.wrexham.gov.uk/fostering.

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THE LAST WORD

yattaryattar on

The only thing we know about the future... … is that when we try to forecast it, we’ll get it wrong. At least, the politicians certainly will, BY StephAnie Anne LLoYD

am delighted that Scotland has decided to remain part of the United Kingdom, as they, the Welsh, Irish and English have together accomplished some amazing things in the last 300 years. We belong together as a collection of countries bound by history and geography. The ‘No’ campaign should have centred on the positives rather than the negatives. Scotland is already a separate country, although various commentators seemed ill-informed on the matter. The referendum was all about becoming a separate state with its own embassies, army etc. Who could not have been moved by the rendition of Land of Hope & Glory at the Last Night of the Proms? We have given so much to the world and can rightfully stand proud of the Union we belong to. Democracy, tolerance and diplomacy were all exported from the UK. Two politicians who I have never previously admired led by example: Alex Salmond resigned when his goal was not achieved, a lesson for all politicians. He truly believed in his vision, however flawed it was financially. And Gordon Brown gave the speech of his career post-referendum which reached out to those 45 per cent on the losing side and was positive and encompassing – in contrast to Cameron who appeared smug, and Miliband who succeeded in saying nothing of importance and just seemed worried about losing 40 Scottish MPs. Devolution is a good objective whereby as much responsibility is given as far as possible to those who are aware of local priorities. Given the freedom to reorganise regions I would start by scrapping all county councils. Under my proposals, Wales, for instance, would have two regions – north and south – which would be responsible for overseeing local councils who, in cooperation with the

living wage of £12,500 to be free of taxation and then the rest of income be taxed at 25 per cent with no exceptions, no schemes for wealthy footballers, film stars and business tycoons.

Ask the voters We have a national debt forecast to hit £1.25 trillion, we cannot afford to fund foreign wars and fully fund the NHS. We cannot afford for one in every four workers to be paid from the public purse; we cannot afford retirement at 65 – so politicians why not tell us the brutal truth? We have to make hard choices but we are a sensible lot by and large, so stop treating us like idiots. We know that higher spending equals higher taxes or borrowing more and we want a voice in how our hard earned money is spent. We live in an increasingly fragile world with our faith in banks and politicians at zero, so why not try something radical and go for a unity government made up of members who are elected by proportional representation instead of a government voted in by a simple majority in which only a third of adults participate? Consult those you rule over by means of regular public referenda on a local, regional, country and UK basis as contentious issue arise. Are you really sure that the population north of London want to spend countless billions on a new train set? Given past history where every significant project has come in many times over budget, the Humber Bridge by a factor of 11, are you sure you want to forget the wisdom of history and gamble our money on predictions which past experience tells us you will get hopelessly wrong? We can be sure of one thing and that is that the future is totally unforeseeable. As Harold Macmillan famously stated when asked what dictated how the future was y shaped: ‘Events, dear boy, events.’

‘We belong together as a collection of countries bound by history’ village or townsfolk, would decide which projects the money was spent on. Scotland would justify three regions, Northern Ireland two, and England – where 85 per cent of the UK’s population resides – could manage with six: Southeast, London, Southwest, Midlands, Northeast and Northwest. Each would be represented at national level and UK-wide. We would need a lot fewer politicians, and really controversial decisions such as waging war in foreign lands, membership of the EU and so on would be subject to a referendum.

paying for everything Income tax was introduced to fund our war against the French but has expanded to the size, scope and complexity that noone truly understands it and only the rich can avoid it. Rich landowners are exempt and giant corporations can avoid paying it, despite HMRC employing hundreds of thousands of civil servants. How mad is it that now 25 per cent of the entire UK workforce work for the government? We should allow an indexed

162 yattaryattar magazine November/December 2014

CELEBRATE YOUR CHRISTMAS MOMENTS

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