Yattar Yattar Spring 2012 by Brillybox Publishing & Media

yattar yattar

SPRING 2012

*FOR WALES, SHROPSHIRE AND CHESHIRE

magazine

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FARM TO TABLE WHY BUYING LOCAL FOOD IS THE BEST

WEDDING SPECIAL!

NORTH WALESWEDDINGS CAPITAL OF THE UK

FREE MAGAZINE! PLEASE TAKE A COPY (£1.95 WHERE SOLD)

Wildlife on TV IOLO WILLIAMS AND THE LIFE OF A WILDLIFE PRESENTER

Easter

Egg-stravaganza Make your own chocolate eggs this year!

WIN!

H WEDDING RINGS H SKIN CARE TREATMENTS WORTH £500!

WHAT S ON YOUR 25-PAGE GUIDE TO THE BEST LOCAL EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS

Visit our new website: www.yattaryattar.co.uk

Go Quackers for Spring! HOPPING ABOUT IN WALES, CHESHIRE AND THE BORDERS THIS EASTER

PLUS H spring fashion H restaurant reviews H home & gardens H health advice 00 YY Spring cover.indd 4

20/02/2012 21:40

Ruthin School Co-Educational 11-19 years

There’s an education for life at Ruthin School ■ Small Class Sizes - Individual Attention ■ Happy and Family Atmosphere ■ Places available September 2012

University Successes and Moving Forward Four Cambridge University offers Congratulations to our 4 students for obtaining a place to go to Cambridge University to study Mathematics (2 students), Natural Sciences and Engineering. Your son or daughter could be one such future success.

Other Universities Ruthin School continues to successfully prepare its students for top ranking universities. The conditional offers to study challenging courses at the best universities in the world (including Cambridge, Durham, Imperial, UCL, Bath, Bristol) are already being made to our students.

Senior School Expansion The number of students interested in being part of Ruthin School’s community, focused on outcomes of academic excellence, is increasing. In order to maintain our small classes and individual attention the School is seeking to appoint another mathematics teacher.

Year 5 Mathematics Day Ruthin School is delighted to be hosting this annual event, where later this term over 200 children from local primary and preparatory schools will take part in a series of mathematics challenges. The competitions will be fun and encourage working together on mathematics puzzles.

Taster Days Free taster days are available for all ages. Come and see for yourself the environment in which students at Ruthin School excel.

For a prospectus or to arrange a taster day contact the Registrar, Emma Eccles (01824 702543)

www.ruthinschool.co.uk

yattar yattar* MAGAZINE

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Editor: Stephanie Booth editorial@yattaryattar.co.uk Publisher: Dan Bromage dan@brillybox.co.uk Assistant Editor: Cazz Jones cazz_yattar@yahoo.co.uk Sales Executive: Gill Chetcuti gill_yattar@yahoo.co.uk Art Editor: Julie Gagen julie@suburbiadesign.co.uk Production Editor: Thomas Gagen thomas@suburbiadesign.co.uk

If you would like to work for Yattar Yattar, please get in touch on the numbers below or send an email to: dan@brillybox.co.uk Photography: Eminent Photography, DK Images, Shutterstock.com, Google Images, Press Loft, Ludlow Food Centre, J. McKinney, Cazz Jones Contributors: Lynne Allbutt, Sarah Griffiths, Sam Evans, Rosie Dunnage, Lucy Tubbs, Gloria Mans, Carrie Topham, J. McKinney, Angela Jay & Tom Hunt.

GET IN TOUCH Editorial: editorial@yattaryattar.co.uk, telephone: 01978 813 035 Advertising: advertising@yattaryattar.co.uk, telephone: 01978 813 035

www.yattaryattar.co.uk Yattar Yattar, Brillybox Publishing & Media Ltd, CDC Distribution Centre, Unit 13, Vauxhall Industrial Estate, Ruabon, Wrexham LL14 6HA. Telephone: 01978 813 035 www.brillybox.co.uk

BrillyBox

Publishing & Media™

A WARM WELCOME

FROM THE EDITOR Dear Reader,

Stop the press! Welcome to our new bumper edition! We have had to increase the number of pages in this issue to fit in all of the articles and features we know you love to read, plus all of our new advertisers who want to reach you, our dear reader! Yattar Yattar is still free to pick up from supermarkets and all our other outlets – a great deal for all. Iolo Williams, well known for his wildlife television programmes, kindly agreed to explore the Welsh coast with the Yattar team and share some of his amazing wildlife encounters with us. As you will see, starting on page 48, he is really inspirational. As it is Spring, we have included 35 pages of what to do and see as the holiday season kicks off across Shropshire, Cheshire and North Wales. There are great attractions, brilliant days out and fun activities for kids and adults. We have advice on where to eat and drink, with Yattar Yattar restaurant reviews in amongst our food stories. Plus we have a great recipe for you to try out at home – we show you how to make your own chocolate easter egg! Spring is the time of year to get fit, keep healthy and shed those unwanted pounds; I find the Dukan diet works for me as I can eat as much as I like of the foods I love without any tiresome calorie counting. See the latest seasonal fashion trends, and if you are overweight, like me, go for black skirt, blouse or dress and then a colourful overgarment. As well as reading all of our regular columns and contributors, you can enter several fantastic competitions offering fabulous prizes – turn to page 102 to see what you can win in this issue. Also, my apologies to the readers whose letters can not be included due to lack of space, but I have at least managed to reply to you all personally. This is a great time of year as our beautiful plants and flowers start bursting forth, now is the time to get outside and fill your lungs with fresh crisp air, the glorious smell of freshly mown grass and the scent of flowers, remembering that our very life depends on their ability to convert carbon monoxide into oxygen. We literally owe our existence to trees and plants – so be kind to them. Celebrate and enjoy every day as you wake up on this wonderful planet! Thank you for your continued support and that of our advertisers. We are a not for profit magazine so I hope you can feel the love Calling we put in creating it for you.

all writers!

ny If you have a ould stories you w lished, ub like to see p h by get in touc l@ ria email: edito o.uk yattaryattar.c

Kindest regards,

Visit www.yattaryattar.com Brillybox Publishing is an exciting new venture! Combining more years’ experience than we’d care to count across publishing, editorial, design, print, marketing and PR, we’re here to breathe new life into regional publishing. We are a not for profit publishing operation, giving back to local businesses some much-needed support for their advertising and public relations. ISSN 2042-8588 Origination by Suburbia Design www.suburbiadesign.co.uk. Printed by Acorn Web Offset Ltd. Distribution by Self Select Distribution. YATTAR YATTAR is published quarterly 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. 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 Brillybox Publishing & Media Ltd. © 2012 Brillybox Publishing & Media Ltd, all rights reserved. Registered Number: 7725045.

03 Spring Ed's Letter.indd 3

STEPHANIE BOOTH Editor

Spring 2012 yattaryattar magazine 3

24/02/2012 13:33

Erddig The National Trust’s Erddig in Wrexham is an atmospheric country house and estate that vividly evokes family and servant life through the ages.

Events for Spring! March 17th - ‘Wear your Wellies’

Splash around the grounds and gardens in your wellies. Lots of outdoor activities to keep you occupied.

April 6th – 9th ‘Easter Trails’

Sponsored by Cadbury. Egg trails and Children’s play area. Find the clues that lead to the chocolate prize!

May 5th ‘Wrexham National Trust’

Association Spring Fair Plants for sale grown by the volunteers and craft stalls helping to raise funds for special Erddig restoration projects.

May 27th ‘NGS Open Day’

Guided Walks with the gardeners.

June 16th & 17th ‘Teddy Bears Picnic’ Bring your special Teddy to enjoy a summer picnic in the gardens.

Erddig Hall, Wrexham LL13 0YT Tel: 01978 355314 Email: erddig@nationaltrust.org.uk Web: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/erddig

yattar yattar*

contents MAGAZINE

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7 Letters

93 Lynne Allbutt

Diets, unrepentant bankers, controversial wind farms – and a little bit of praise for Yattar Yattar!

Positive attitudes, divine paths and Chesney Hawkes!

10 What’s On

Weight-loss surgery explained, a fascinating tour of a high-tech operating theatre, and keyhole kidney treatment

A massive 35 pages of great events for all the family across Wales and the Borders this spring

37 Days Out We visit some of the best activities and attractions on offer this spring

44 Farm to Table Why buying local is best for quality and best for our farmers

100 Subscribe Today And receive a year’s worth of this great magazine posted directly to your door

101 Celebrity Astrologer Your stars for spring 2012

102 WIN WIN WIN!

On location with everybody’s favourite Welsh wildlife presenter

Skin care treatments worth £500, a voucher for weddings rings, and a family ticket to Dublin!

52 Pet’s Corner

104 Crossword

Expert advice from our resident vet, plus part two of our guide to owning a horse

With difﬁcult cryptic clues or straightforward clues that give the same answer!

48 Iolo Williams

54 Wedding Special From the rings to the dresses, the venues to the ﬂowers – let us relieve some of the stress with our fabulous eight-page guide

65 Homes and Gardens Growing your own food, antique hunting and heating your home for less

75 Food Tasters Home-made Easter eggs, super foods and we meet North Wales’ very own Masterchef contender!

95 Consultant’s Advice

WIN!

Great p our fa rizes in comp bulous eti See p tions 1

38 22

104 Yattar On Why do we let bankers gamble with our money?

56 80

78 Restaurant Review Sail back in time to Ye Olde Anchor Inn for a hearty meal

80 Flower Power The pick of the crop as spring fashion comes up roses

83 Angela Jay on Heart FM Our regular radio columnist with more juicy gossip from the world of show-biz

85 Kids Corner Learn an instrument and go to school on the beach!

86 Health & Beauty Homeopathy, breast implants and top spring tips for super eating

92 Psychotherapy On the couch with Anita Rushton

44 Spring 2012 yattaryattar magazine 5

5-Contents Spring 6.indd 5

24/02/2012 12:19

Plassey A4 advert jan 12:Layout 1

25/1/12

10:21

Page 1

The

Retail, Crafts & Great Family day outâ&#x20AC;Ś

Over 25 delightfully individual shops & craft workshops set around charming Edwardian buildings, surrounded by panoramic views of the Dee Valley. Have lunch in our Coffee Shop, Tea Garden & Restaurant or take a stroll along our 2 miles of nature trail walks.

SPRING SPECIAL EVENT

Wedding & Event Show In association with Nightingale House Hospice

Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th March - 11am until 4.30pm Over 30 Wedding & Event Specialists joining our resident retail outlets providing both the traditional and something very different for your Wedding, Special Event or Party.

* FREE PARKING & FREE ENTRY TO THIS SPECIAL EVENT

PLASSEY RETAIL AND CRAFT WORKSHOPS Temptations T: 07754 381 216 Lemon & Lime Lingerie T: 01978 780002 Home & Gifts T: 07754 381 216 Kerry Anne Dodd (Contemporary Jeweller) T: 01978 780314 Accessories T: 01978 780779 Twig T: 01978 780092 Eyton Framers T: 01978 780411 The Plassey Hair Studio T: 01978 780389 or 01978 781187

The Plassey Shippon Restaurant T: 01978 780905

The Plassey Beauty Studio T: 01978 781153 Footsies (Garra Ruffa Fish Spa) T: 01978 780101 Phil Rees Photography T: 07969 390369 Karan Foxley Floral Design T: 07795 167382 Positive Hypnotherapy T: 01978 357202 Plassey Personal Trainer T: 07900 985 625 The Plassey Brewery T: 01978 781111 George the Smithy T: 01978 720840 or 07710 943 832

The Stables Coffee Shop & Tea Garden T: 01978 780704

The Barn Boutique T: 01978 780601 Derwen Computers T: 01978 780957 Acre House Equestrian T: 01978 781242 Cameo Brides T: 01978 781160 Plassey Plants T: 01978 780788 Plassey Stores T: 01978 780700

Something for all the family! Plassey Golf Course & Club House T: 01978 780020

CRAFT DAYS WORKSHOP Bring the kids to make fun crafts

such as

Cup Cake Workshops, Jewellery & Bead Workshops, Sand Creations & much more...

T: 01978 780277 or E: enquiries@plassey.com

See Website for dates and times

Open all year. Usual opening hours 10.30am - 5pm. Some businesses open Monday but please call us if making a special journey.

The Plassey Craft and Retail Centre, Eyton, Wrexham, LL13 0SP Tel: 01978 780277 www.plassey.com

YOUR LETTERS

yattarchatter Your news, views and opinions are welcome – write to us at Yattar Yattar, Brillybox Publishing, CDC Distribution Centre, Unit 13, Vauxhall Industrial Estate, Ruabon, Wrexham LL14 6HA or email to editorial@yattaryattar.co.uk. We do not publish your full details and address, but they must be included in all submissions as we will not publish anonymous contributions.

“

I am delighted by the way our readers interact with us by letter and e-mail and am heartened by the increasing numbers who write in with constructive comments and questions. This is your magazine and your feedback is really appreciated. Stephanine Booth

“

★ ★

★

Star letter

★

Dear Editor,

I get lots of visitors in summer and winter and used to struggle for places to take them to, but not since I started reading Yattar Yattar. Packed full of helpful information about what’s on in and around Cheshire, glorious recipes to help me with my meals and even healthcare to help me be at my best! Of course there’s much, much more but I cannot believe this magazine is free! Ryan Webber, Little Neston Many thanks Ryan, we are always reticent about blowing our own trumpet but it is a great boost for the Yattar team to get such positive feedback as, believe me, they work their socks off to produce every issue.

KEEPING BUSY

Now you have lost your hotels what do you do with all of your spare time? T. SMITH, COLWYN BAY We still have ‘Ye Olde Anchor Inn’ in Ruthin, but most of my time is now concentrated on our original roots in our mail order businesses which operate internationally, also I am devising new products at the present time, then I have 300 rescue animals that live with us to look after. I write for Yattar and am filming for Channel 4 as well as working on a project in Spain so I have not yet run out of things to keep me busy but thank you for asking!

OOH – BANKERS!

I read with interest your article about banks… as a small business struggling to survive, we have been forced to reduce our overdraft by £5,000 while trading in a recession. JILL PEERS – WIDNES Your letter (which I have abridged) was one of many regarding banks, so I will answer this more fully in a dedicated article further on page 106. Yours is one of many letters we have received from small businesses right across our distribution area and they all portray the banks who caused this recession, treating their customers with utter contempt. It is simply not fair or ethical and they are totally uncaring for the damage they are causing. Peacocks, a profitable chain with 368 stores, employing 10,000 staff was pushed into administration by RBS/Natwest a bank that we the taxpayers had to bail out with £45 billion when we own 84%. I say we nationalise it and then order it to stop gambling our money on international markets and return to traditional savings and loans for UK citizens and businesses.

FEELING DOWN

I am really unhappy with my life, but have not the courage to commit suicide. I have tried the Samaritans but I still feel worthless and miserable. MR. G. R. (FULL NAME WAS SUPPLIED) If you remember my saying that ‘life is just a bowl of toenails and then you die’ then everything else looks good by comparison! Depression can be caused by various factors, from lack of sunlight to illness and stress so it is vital that you consult you GP who will refer you to a specialist. Sometimes drugs such as Prozac can help but it is important that the cause of your condition is identified. I have also sent you a personal reply containing a lot more information and contact details.

TILTING AT WINDMILLS

We are campaigning to stop more giant windmills being built as they are spoiling our beautiful countryside. Will Yattar Yattar help us campaign? SIAN, DENBIGHSHIRE

I am afraid that Yattar has to maintain total editorial independence and, whilst we are happy to carry an article on the subject, it has to reflect a balanced view. However, as editor I can state my personal view. The world has warmed by 0.75% of one degree in the past 100 years. Global warming is still very controversial as we know that the planets temperature has historically fluctuated significantly in the past without mankind doing anything. Personally I believe the sun has much more to do with our underlying temperature than anything else. You can get sunburnt by sun rays coming from 92 million miles away. Solar storms throw out superheated flares hundreds of thousands of miles into space and it is only the earth’s magnetic field that protects us. The sun is just entering one of its quiet periods and I have no personal doubt that in 50 years time scientists will be panicking about global cooling as they did in the 1970’s. Those forecasting the end of the earth have been wrong every time so far so my advice is to stop worrying and enjoy life. Do we need wind power? No – it is unreliable and expensive. As we do not have major earthquakes or tsunamis, I would build 12 nuclear power stations in remote coastal locations and then tell the Arabs and the Russians where to stick their oil and gas, but, hey, I have always been a maverick!

MORE LETTERS Spring 2012 yattaryattar magazine 7

7-8 Spring Letters.indd 7

23/02/2012 16:26

YATTAR YOUR LETTERS CHATTER

TALKING POINT Oil & water just do not mix

yattar yattar

Dear Yattar Yattar, * MAGA ZINE Just a few lines to say WINTER WILDLIFE FREE MAGAZINE! how much I enjoyed Yattars Yuletide 2012 the last issue. I got Gifts lots of inspiration and ideas for different WIN! things to do with friends and family – very often you don’t A Traditional Christmas know what’s on your own doorstep. I love entering the competitions too! All in all one beautifully fabulous and well thought-out FREE publication. Yours faithfully, F.Moureen, Shropshire. WINTER 2011

*FOR WALES, SHROPSHIRE

AND CHESHIRE

™

WHERE TO GO NATURE SPOTTING IN THE WINTER MONTHS

PLEASE TAKE A COPY (£1.95 WHERE SOLD)

YEAR OF THE HOBBY

GREAT OFFERS FOR YOU – SEE PAGE 38

LEARN A SKILL IN THE NEW YEAR

Holiday treats

Ten pages of delicious winter food & recipes

★ AN ANIMAL

WHATS WHAT S ON

ENCOUNTER AT CHESTER ZOO ★ FREE GYM MEMBERSHIP ★ BEAUTY TREATMENTS worth £500!

YOUR 25-PAGE GUIDE TO THE BEST CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR EVENTS IN YOUR AREA

SHARE THESE CHRISTMAS

Visit our new website: www.yattaryattar.co.uk

AND NEW YEAR CUSTOMS

WITH YOUR

FRIENDS AND FAMILY! PLUS ★ WINTER FASHION ★ RESTAURANT REVIEWS ★ HOME HEATING ★ HEALTH ADVICE

Letters sent to Yattar Yattar magazine may be edited due to space constraints

Dear Mrs Booth, Just a few brief lines to let you know what a truly superb magazine I consider Yattar Yattar to be and to give my congratulations to all concerned for their fine efforts which go into producing it. It all happened when I was contracted to do some work at a near by quarry in late September which occasioned a visit to the Sainsburys store where, upon leaving, I was almost grabbed by the magazines stunning appearance (yes – fluffy animals do work!) Even better still when I had time to look closely at the contents – the diversity I find truly amazing – something to interest and inform just about everybody! Keep up the good work. Yours sincerely P J PEARSON, NOTTINGHAM To All the team at Yattar Yattar Magazine, Just wanted to say a big thank you for making our advert and feature look so good! We really appreciate it, and the good news is that it seems we’re already getting some traffic through because of it – you clever little things! Thanks a million and look forward to working with you again in the future. Kindest regards LOUISE LYON, LUCRIS. Thank You Yattar Yattar You don’t get much for nothing these days so your magazine is a gem of a freebie at my local store. Just want to say thank your for the interesting articles and especially for the great photos that accompany many of the features. Thay are colourful, bright and uplifting. Cheers to all who make it happen. D. JONES, LLANDUDNO.

“

Letters that make it all worth it!

You all know that it is a scientific fact, yet Germany and France cling to the idea that they can mix the developed northern economies with excellent fiscal discipline and populations who dutifully pay taxes with southern countries where tax avoidance is a way of life. When you proffer a cheque in Spain they will ask you to make it out to ‘Al Portador’ and if you offer a bank transfer they will immediately say ‘well in that case you will have to pay IVA’ (VAT). Spanish official unemployment is 23% but the majority of these are working for cash, gardening, maintenance etc. They pay no PAYE & NI yet claim benefits subsidised by the EU. Italy, Portugal, Greece in fact all of the southern EU members suffer endemic levels of tax evasion and Romania and Bulgaria are still undeveloped with EU subsidies disappearing into a black hole of outright corruption. A single currency only works when all participants share common values as regards to tax collection, law enforcement and productivity. Germans are hard working and very productive; the Greeks are about 25% as efficient. We reap what we sow, everyone knew that Greece massively fiddled its books to gain entry into the Euro Currency Union, they lied and because Germany and France wanted them in they turned a blind eye. Now it has come back to haunt us all, and all of the rescue plans are doomed to fail for the same reason as a plan to mix oil and water. Greece will only survive if it leaves the Euro and conversely the Euro will only prosper if Greece goes – it is just a matter of time before the markets force this. A more permanent solution for those that cling to a single currency union is to have two, the Euro for the northern states and the Suro for the southern states, but whatever they decide I truly hope that the UK keeps the Pound Sterling. We are an island sovereign state and we want to be friends with our neighbours but not go all the way and get in bed with them.

DIET SHORT-CUTS?

I have piled on the pounds over the festive period and wonder if you could suggest a quick way to lose a stone? MRS. S WITHINGTON – CHESTER Weight gain is so much easier to attain than weight loss but my suggestion would be to follow the DUKAN diet (simply Google it) they will try and sell you coaching which you will not need so you can do it for free. To start with you eat fish, most meats (not lamb) and not that much else. You do not have to weigh anything or count calories. This phase lasts for between five and 10 days depending on how much weight you need to lose, then you can alternate and have specified vegetables with protein on alternate days. It is simple and I lost a stone in 6 weeks. If you need help then Reductamin pills are a four-way weight loss aid (www.cdcmedical.co.uk). Good luck.

8 yattaryattar magazine Spring 2012

7-8 Spring Letters.indd 8

23/02/2012 16:26

LLANGOLLEN RAILWAY “Nostalgia for Everyone”

““M Moouunnttaaiinn M Maaggiicc”” iinn N Noorrtthh W Waalleess

Events - Spring 2012

Real Ale Train EXPLORE NORTH WALES IN COMFORT - BY TRAIN ! Our two narrow-gauge railways run through the very heart of the Snowdonia National Park and provide the perfect way to relax and enjoy the magnificent scenery - during a car-free, care-free journey in comfortable carriages complete with an ‘at-your-seat’ buffet service and on-train toilets. Trains run throughout the year with a daily service from late March to the end of October.

Saturday 17th March, Saturday 19th May, Saturday 9th June 6.30pm until 9.30pm Tickets £13.50 Includes a free souvenir glass with all pre booked tickets

There is always plenty to entertain the whole family, both on and around the railways - you can ride the trains all day, take a shorter trip to one of our many stations and explore local villages and countryside at your leisure before returning on a later train or visit us for one of our popular, ‘family-friendly’ special events.

Diesel Day

Saturday 31st March An intensive all diesel service operated by available locos from our home fleet with visiting engine Class 31 5580

Train times and further information available on our website.

FFESTINIOG & WELSH HIGHLAND RAILWAYS Harbour Station, Porthmadog, Gwynedd, LL49 9NF

enquiries@festrail.co.uk

01766 516024

www.festrail.co.uk

Murder Mystery

Garrotting for Gold - Saturday 5th May – 7pm The year is 1851 and Welsh miner William Jones has returned from the Californian Gold Rush with gold in his pocket and plans to pan for gold in the River Dee. But not everyone is pleased at the prospect of him prospecting. With more twists than a runaway train, join us as the mystery unfolds and help us to catch the dastardly devil and stop him in his tracks.

Forget abroad

Holiday at Home

Jack the Ripper and the Whitechapel Murders Saturday 14th July – 7pm

It is July 1889, nearly one year after the murder of Mary Kelly when Detective Inspector Frederick Abberline is called to investigate reports of a ‘Den of Iniquity’ in London. Come with us back in time to the depths of Victorian London and examine original evidence and suspects to decide who YOU believe was the infamous JACK THE RIPPER.

£26 per person includes food, travel and MURDER.

Choose from 100’s of locations across North Wales you never knew existed!

Including Taliesin Lodge holiday park pictured

Heritage Her t ge Ra tag Railcar car ar Gala G

Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th June www.llangollen-railway.co.uk Call today and we will find you your dream second home

Roy Kellett Caravans Towyn Road, Towyn, North Wales, LL22 9NW 01745 350043 www.roykellettcaravans.com

Llangollen Railway The Station · Abbey Road · Llangollen LL20 8SN Tel: 01978 860979 www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN NORTH WALES Snowdonia Mountain Railway

MARCH – OCTOBER Welcome to Snowdon Mountain Railway – majestic Snowdon dominates the glorious, ancient landscape of North Wales. At 3,560ft (1,085m) it is a true mountain and a place of legend – said to be the burial place of the giant ogre Rhita, vanquished by King Arthur. Some believe that Arthur’s Knights still sleep beneath. The summit café will certainly sort out the rumble in the tumble – serving a wide selection of warm and cold food at ‘rock bottom’ prices. The real treat however comes from the feeling when standing at the summit of the highest peak in Wales. Simply the best view in the land! Visit: www.snowdonrailway.co.uk

William Aston Hall Let’s take a quick peek at the shows about to hit Wrexham’s premiere entertainment venue – William Aston Hall; known to event-o-holics across the land as one of the largest and best established venues in North Wales. MARCH 9TH AT 20:00, COMEDY – SEANN WALSH Rising comedy star Seann Walsh presents a new show of razorsharp observational comedy. Seann’s recent TV appearances include Mock The Week (BBC2), 8 Out Of 10 Cats (Channel 4), Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow (BBC1) and Stand Up For The Week (Channel 4). A fresh new comedian whose outlook on the world will ring bells with all of us! 22ND AT 19:30 – VIENNA FESTIVAL BALLET – SWAN LAKE DANCE One of the best-known love stories, performed by the ever popular Vienna Festival Ballet. Lavish costumes, stunning scenery, international ballet stars, and glorious music by Tchaikovsky make this a night not to be missed. APRIL 19TH AT 20:00, COMEDY – RICH HALL Rich Hall is the star of the critically acclaimed BBC 4 documentaries Rich Hall’s The Dirty South and How The West Was Lost plus Channel 4’s topical late night show Stand Up For The Week. Fans can see the ‘comic genius’ from Montana discuss a variety of topics all delivered in his own hilarious way. Prepare to laugh your socks off as this comedian leaves no stone unturned. ‘Now is the time to grab this chance to see the great man at work’ – The Guardian

10 yattaryattar magazine Spring 2012

10-16 North Wales Spring WO 2 2.indd 10

Gardener’s Market at RSPB Conwy

15TH AND 20TH APRIL 2012 Calling all green thumbs! If you love nothing more than tending to your precious plants, watching them grow from a seed into beautiful creations of nature, then this event is for you. The Gardener’s Market and Specialist Plant Fair at RSPB Conwy is a spectacular day out. Heralded as a bird-watchers haven, the picturesque landscape and river make this a ﬁne day out anytime of year! But… if you are going to pay a visit you may as well add this exciting event to the itinerary. There will be a wide variety of plants for sale, grown by local nurseries who will be happy to give advice and information about suitable plants for your garden and will be on hand to answer your questions. Plus there will be expert advice on compost making, bee-friendly gardening and poultry keeping. Usual entrance charges apply to the reserve trails but entry to the Gardener’s Market will be free. Happy days! Visit: www.rspb.org.uk for more information.

23/02/2012 21:35

Goff Danter at Electric Mountain

26TH MARCH - 1ST MAY 2012

Erddig Spring Fair

Widely acclaimed as one of Britain’s ﬁnest historic houses, Erddig is a fascinating early 18th-century country house reﬂecting the upstairs-downstairs life of a gentry family over 250 years. The house is home to an amazing miscellany of treasures and trivia, outstanding formal gardens and country estate, themed country walking routes and you can even take a horse and carriage ride around the grounds or hire a bicycle! The house is part of the National Trust and holds excellent events such as the upcoming Easter Trails which will see hundreds of little chocolate-hungry monsters solving clues and hunting down many a chocolate egg on the grounds on the 6th – 9th April) The Spring Fair and plant sale is on May the 5th – it is no wonder that Erddig Hall continues to attract a wealth of visitors each and every year. For more information please call: 01978 355314

Great news! Goff Danter, the renowned Welsh artist who has been taking the art scene by storm in South Wales, is now heading north to share his highly sought-after work with the rest of his homeland. Specialising in nostalgic scenes, Goff’s expressive paintings reflect the mood or atmosphere of events and locations rather than purely pictorial representation. He has developed a distinctive style which is inspired by personal recollections and experiences from ‘life as a young boy, growing up in the Welsh valleys.’ Now being recognised as one of the most important Welsh artists of his generation, he will be exhibiting examples of his work for the first time at the Electric Mountain Gallery, Llanberis on 26th March – 1st May 2012. A preview of this exhibition will be held at Pen-y-Ceunant, Llanberis from 24th February 2012.

The Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod line-up!

Spring Specials at the National Trust DRAGON QUEST AT CHIRK CASTLE, 17TH APRIL, 12:00 – 16:00 Meet the Dragons of Wye-Ten and their family of puppets for a magical family day out. Join in the interactive puppet show, complete the Dragon Quest and be awarded the key to the Dragon’s treasure chest! ERDDIG’S WEAR YOUR WELLIES DAY, 17TH MARCH, 11:00 – 15:00 Get stuck into a host of garden activities, and show off your most glamorous wellies in this hands-on day of outdoor fun. CHIRK CASTLE AND POWIS CASTLE AND GARDENS, ST DAVID’S DAY CELEBRATIONS – 1ST MARCH, 11:00 – 16:00 Mark the patron saint of Wales’s day in style at two of the nation’s greatest castles, with a feast of Welsh fare from the special St David’s Day menus. ATTINGHAM PARK’S HOLIDAY TRAILS, DAILY FROM 31ST MARCH TO 15TH APRIL Keep the little ones entertained with a specially tailored garden trail that makes the most of the wonderful grounds.

TUES 3RD JULY – SUNDAY 8TH JULY Yattar Yattar is pleased to bring you the headline announcements for the forthcoming 2012 HEAD GARDENER DAY AT BODNANT GARDENS, 16TH Llangollen Festival, that cannot be ‘compared’ APRIL, 9:30 – 15:30 with any other festival… yes, that’s right – the ‘Go Spend a day with the head Compare’ star Wynne Evans will be performing a gardener at these worldstylish set of classical melodies for your enjoyment famous gardens, learn what in the Grand Finale Concert on Sunday, 8th happens behind the scenes and hear about their vision July. Wynne says: ‘The Llangollen International for the attraction’s future. Eisteddfod has such a rich tradition and is well Booking is essential for this supported by locals and visitors popular event that includes a from the four corners of three-course lunch with wine. the world. It’s an honour to be invited to perform on such an iconic stage. I visited the MOTHER’S DAY AT POWIS CASTLE AND GARDENS, 18 Eisteddfod for the first time last year and I was MARCH, 11:00 – 16:00 amazed by the broad spectrum of musical Give mum a treat styles and cultures. As soon as I felt and take her out the atmosphere in the pavilion it to the wonderful Did you know? The became my ambition to sing there!’ home of the Earl of Powis, Alison Balsom (left), Lesley Garrett word ‘Orchestra’ where every and Nicola Benedetti celebrate comes from a Greek mum receives a special gift on arrival! the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee on word ‘orkhestra’, Wednesday 4th July and Alfie Boe CHIRK CASTLE’S SPRING LECTURE: 18TH CENTURY comes to Llangollen as well. Also, meaning a COSTUME, 21ST APRIL, 11:00 Discover the role fashions played in the 1700s world-famous music conductor semicircular space and the signiﬁcance of wealth on fabric and Karl Jenkins and his exciting new where dancers design in this one-off show followed by lunch. work, The Peacemakers with Valentia Numbers are restricted so booking is essential. performed Nafornita (Friday, 6th July) and the renowned Choir of the BRITISH WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION AT PENRHYN World Competition on Saturday, CASTLE, 2ND APRIL – 25TH MAY Enjoy a ﬂock of spectacular images from the cream of British 7th July. Book now at www.internationalwildlife photographers in this majestic setting. eisteddfod.co.uk or call 01978 862000

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SO MUCH TO SEE… VINTAGE AND ANTIQUES

SO MUCH TO DISCOVER…GIFTS FOR ALL

SO MUCH TO ENJOY…

FOR MORNING COFFEE, LUNCH AND AFTERNOON TEA. ORDER YOUR HOME MADE PARTY FOODS. HUGE RANGE OF UNIQUE GIFTS * CRAFT CENTRE 01352 720965 RESTAURANT 01352 720797

(5 MINS FROM A55, JCT 31 A541 Mold /Denbigh road) OPEN TUESDAYS TO SUNDAYS 9.30AM-5.30PM WWW.AFONWEN.CO.UK

The Old Union Workhouse

k on c si to Vi in s st te ow La e n l ck

Corwen Manor

Ruth’s Choice Welsh fancy goods and cards shop in the heart of Holywell

We are a family-run business with the needs of our customers at the heart of everything we do. We offer our customers a free tea or coffee whilst writing their cards and post the card for them. We offer an extensive range of wedding and baby gifts as well a selection of handmade items including:

● Home spun and dyed wool using local wool

● Hand-knitted garments ● Handmade Jewellery

● Hand-dyed silk scarves and much more

01352 711411

www.ruthschoiceholywell.co.uk

t ch oile an t a gi n av ng d b ai fac ab la y bl iliti e es

Visit our shop at 31a High Street, Holywell or call us on:

• Welsh crafts & Souvenirs • Jewellery • Café • Personalised Candles, cards & Lovespoons • Wool Shop • Fishing Tackle & Bait Open Monday to Saturday 10 ‘til 5 Sunday 11 ‘til 5 Closed Wednesday

01490 413196

www.corwenmanor.co.uk 8 London Rd, Corwen, Denbighshire LL21 0DR

WHAT’S ON IN NORTH WALES

Steel, Steam and Stars at Llangollen

Darland Golf Course – Why Go Anywhere Else?

Darland Golf Course is a nine-hole parkland course set in 65 acres of beautiful countryside between the villages of Rossett and Pulford on the Welsh borders, with views of the Clwydian Hills and Trevalyn Meadows. The course, constructed in 1999, has matured to a challenging par 35 golf course, operated on a pay and play basis. The course has been built to a high standard, with tees and greens constructed to USGA specification, ensuring the course provides a superb test for golfers of all levels. The ninth hole is their signature – you’ll have to pay a visit to find out why… The natural flora and fauna, mature oaks and horse-chestnuts along with the water features provide a haven for wildlife, with foxes, badgers, buzzards and herons regularly spotted. Recent development has seen the construction of the clubhouse and the provision of a practice green, driving nets and a pitching/chipping area. Prices start from just £9.00 for a round, so it’s the perfect green for any golfer – Fore! Call: 01244 579282 for more information.

21ST - 29TH APRIL 2012 Hold the front page… it’s once again time for the steam spectacular of the year! Introducing Steel, Steam and Stars III; a week-long event that will have steam enthusiasts the UK over ‘chugging’ at the bit! What’s in store? This is the trademark event of the 6880 Betton Grange Society, run to raise funds for the building of the locomotive. This year the star attractions are the Llangollen Railway’s impressive home ﬂeet, three-brake vans, a steam and vintage rally, a beer festival, a display of miniature steam and model engineering, and, new for 2012, trips along the newly extended railway towards Corwen. The Beavertail Saloon with its plush armchairs is on site to welcome you once again. The weekdays from Monday through to Thursday will be special themed days and the climax of the event will be the big reveal of the total money raised, when all of the hard work and dedication quite literally pays off! There are high hopes that this year’s event will raise in excess of £60,000 so that a new set of cylinders can be cast and machined for the new engine. Support the days of steam and celebrate in style this spring! For more information visit: www. llangollen-railway.co.uk

Did you know? There are no less than 336 dimples on a regulation golf ball. (They help the balls ﬂy straight!)

That perfect holiday home – make the dream a reality!

We sometimes assume the perfect holiday home awaits us in a far-off, sunshine-laden land – but more and more Brits are realising that this doesn’t have to be the case. North Wales offers a great solution for those of you wishing to purchase a country retreat; a solution which removes the need for expensive flights too! Roy Kellett Caravans, who specialise in selling affordable holiday homes in North Wales and Cheshire, offer buyers the chance to own a little piece of heaven at a very affordable price! Angharad Wheeler at Roy Kellett says: ‘Here you can be sure to find your perfect holiday home in North Wales. We have a wealth of knowledge and have been known as the leading suppliers of caravans since 1965. As specialists in caravan holiday homes, we supply parks across North Wales and whether you are looking for a caravan near the beach or in the country, we have a large number of parks on offer to suit everyone. Our show ground is based in Towyn, North Wales and features a large selection of both new and pre-owned holiday homes for you to view. We will also part-exchange your old touring caravan should you wish to set up a more permanent holiday home.’ From as little as £15,000 you can be the very proud owner of your own holiday retreat – just think how good life could be knowing you own the perfect get-away! For more information visit: www.roykellettcaravans.com

Visit the Yattar Yattar website www.yattaryattar.com

10-16 North Wales Spring WO 2 2.indd 13

What’s on at... Afonwen Craft Centre

MAIR MORGAN SILK PAINTINGS, 6TH & 7TH MARCH Mair creates beautiful paintings on silk scarves, cushions and a range of other luxuary material. Come and see the magic at ﬁrst hand, have a go yourself and buy a nice gift to take home! LOCAL ARTIST THELMA, 10TH AND 11TH MARCH & 20TH – 22ND APRIL Thelma creates wonderful paintings usually of ﬂowers and landscapes. Pop in and see a real artist at work. ROSEWOOD CRAFTS, 16TH MARCH Rosie paints lots of different designs on glass, including Celtic designs, Welsh dragons and lots more. JULIA HOBBS, 17TH & 18TH MARCH Julia makes jewellery using semi precious stones. She also creates neck collars and hand embroidered badges – you can have a go too. SPARKLES CARDS, 22ND MARCH By Linda with a wide selection to choose from. Sparkles Cards will also be on 25th & 26th April. MURRAY TAYLOR LOVESPOONS, 31ST MARCH & 1ST APRIL A fantastic collection of lovespoons, pictures, boxes and other items. There will be other exhibitors throughout the month of March too – a visit any time of the day is well worth it. SUSIE Q, HAND KNITTED AND CROCHET WORK, 5TH APRIL Booties, slippers and toys will be lovingly created by Susie on site. Why not have a go or take some home as a gift? MADE BY MELISSA,11TH AND 12TH APRIL Fun and funky jewellery for all. There’s so many craftsmen and woman showcasing their skills at Afonwen, only a visit would do them justice!

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WHAT’S ON IN NORTH WALES

Denbighshire Heritage What’s On

RUTHIN GAOL, CLWYD STREET, RUTHIN FRIDAY 6TH APRIL Captured On Camera! Have your own mug shot or Wanted Poster created, and explore the lives of the prisoners. RUTHIN GAOL, 11 APRIL. Hard Labour: attempt the tasks which the prisoners were set at the gaol in this costumed re-enactment. RHYL MUSEUM, LIBRARY BUILDING, CHURCH STREET, RHYL 2 APRIL-30 JUNE: My Rhyl, My Community: An exhibition by the children of Rhyl. RHYL MUSEUM EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA, TUESDAY 3 APRIL. Make your own decorations and cards. An egg-stremely brilliant event! PLAS NEWYDD, HILL STREET, LLANGOLLEN THURSDAY 8 MARCH Monstrous Regiment of Women! An International Women’s Day event with women’s history writer Clare Wall and re-enactor Ruth MooreWilliams. PLAS NEWYDD FAMILY ORIENTEERING DAY, SAT 7 APRIL Orienteering event with Celtica Mapping and Denbighshire Countryside Service. Learn mapping skills and never get lost again! NANTCLWYD Y DRE, CASTLE STREET, RUTHIN 1 APRIL-1 JULY St Peter’s Gates Exhibition. An interesting display on the restoration of the famous gates to Ruthin Church. NANTCLWYD Y DRE, EASTER IN THE GARDENS 7 APRIL Celebrate Easter in the historic garden. Easter egg hunts for children and garden games. Good for parents and kiddies alike.

Techniquest

The Slime Show, March 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 24-25 Fantastic ﬂuids take the stage in this gooey, gungy extravaganza! Explore the amazing properties of slime and ﬁnd out why it behaves in such strange ways. See slime you can squeeze, punch, pour, stretch and splat! Come and see why science is amazing at Techniquest Glyndwr. Open all year round, this fun attraction makes learning and discover fun. Enjoy live science demonstrations, special events and family activities that surprise, enthuse and amuse. From big bangs to slippery slime, all activities are fun and engaging for all the family. Techniquest Glyndwr offers over 60 hands-on exhibits, live science shows and daring demonstrations, perfect for all the family, all year - whatever the weather Visitors can expect a varied and fun day out with interactive shows, workshops and special events.

Turn to page 37 for the start of our ﬁve-page feature on great days out across Wales and the Borders this Spring!

Saint David’s Day Celebrations

Leeks at the ready, daffodils steady, it’s time to celebrate the biggest day in the Welsh calendar! Here’s the pick of the bunch… WREXHAM CELEBRATIONS Saturday February 28th and Sunday 1st March Taste the wonders of the North Wales Borderlands at Wrexham’s Welsh market, hosting once again its justly famous Wrexham sausage competition. Plus witness the parade through the town centre to celebrate Saint David’s Day on the 1st March. POWYS CELEBRATIONS Thursday, 1st March, 11am–4pm Celebrate St David’s day with the 2012 reopening of Powis Castle and Gardens. Enjoy a special Welsh menu in the restaurant and discover the new pancake house at the bottom of the garden. Normal admission prices apply. Call 01938 551944 to book. NATIONAL SLATE MUSEUM CELEBRATIONS 1st March, 11am – 3pm Come and visit ‘the most Welsh of Welsh industries’ on Wales’ national day, and call in for a free welshcake! Call 01286 870630 for more information

Bangor Science Festival 2012

9TH – 18TH MARCH 2012 It’s once again time for the science festival of the year! The Bangor Science Festival offers something for everyone. With activities for families, schools groups and adults it’s sure to capture the minds of all generations. Organised with the help of the Dr Tom Parry Jones Fund, it’s set to promote science and entrepreneurship in young people. Events include: In the Footsteps of Charles Darwin, Eco-science Discovery Day, Debate with the Experts and Wild Science to name but a few. Visit: www.eventsnorthwales.co.uk

Welsh Highland Railway

Spring shows at Theatre Cymru

Listen up theatre fans, how do you

March – October 2012 fancy some fine evenings of fantastical proportions this season? Clywd Theatre Perhaps not as large or Cymru has the perfect solution for those well known as other steam entertainment urges… engine spectaculars, the Welsh Highland Railway A DOLL'S HOUSE, BY HENRIK IBSEN in Porthmadog has no 1st – 31st March 2012 . ‘I must stand on problem holding its own! iature Railway s-M myEn if I'm make of in myself edsense etoSh - owngin de Ri But what makes it special? For starters it hasTr a ain and everything around me.’ A Doll's railway within a railway; after you have journeyed House is a landmark drama which RTHMADOGshocked audiences with its radical bit different... PO on a dashing diesel engine or sterling steam train ilway is a Our ra (WHR) STATION portrayal of a modern woman's journey you can venture further on a miniature version. n’t be on the train for to self-awareness and independence. wo u yo Puff across a mini viaduct, hold your breath as you tremble through the twilight tunnel and watch out for of the time! mostCOMPANY THE RAMBERT DANCE the crocodile by the duck ponds! Care for tea and 14th – 17th March 2012. Celebrating you for a short train takedance, cake in the tearooms? And did I mention the engine We’lofl British 85 years at the heart e sheds? Here you can capture the imagination and Rambert returnsrid to Mold with ena we stop at the Engin e, th mb fill in any steam locomotive blanks you may have. cli breathtaking new programme.er The latest to t e you ge s wh ‘Seven Shedentitled dazzling performance Climb into the cab of steam and diesel locomotives, of the locomotives bs ca e th for a Secret’ adds a touch of magical o int work the levers and see for yourself how things work. miniature humour to the company’s repertoire; Meet Beano the horse and see how slate trucks and take a trip on the featuring a gorgeous score based on were brought down from the quarries before steam ay. adapted ilw rales Ravel’s L’enfant et sortilèges, locomotives came along. A fantastic day out for by Stephen McNeff. ‘You won’t find a steam enthusiasts and the kids. Visit: www.whr.co.uk es about an hour, contemporary dancers ur visit tak S stronger clutch ofYo for more information and special events. ENGINE SHED anywhere on the planet’, Daily Telegraph r in the but you can stay longe & MINIATURE ve ha en ev RAILWAY Engine Sheds or

small children Ideal for families with another ride for free! t for you! ou m we’ll wear the 14 yattaryattar magazine Spring 2012 Follow us on facebook - Yattar Yattar Magazine PEN-Y-MOUNT 10-16 North Wales Spring WO 2 2.indd 14

ên Bach jans - Tr 23/02/2012 16:39

Taith Drên - Sied Yr In

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wales

The Unique International Festival

Six Days of the Best International Music and Dance

3 – 8 July

Featuring: Choir Of The World, Folk Friday, Daily Competitions, Evening Celebrity Concerts, One World One Stage

Karl Jenkins The Peacemakers

Wynne Evans Alison Balsom Nicola Benedetti

Book Tickets: 01978 862001 www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk

Hwyl hanner tymor! Llamwch i’r gwanwyn yr hanner tymor hwn. Am ddigwyddiad gerllaw, ewch i www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wales

Half term fun! Step into spring this half term. Find an event near you, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wales

Dewch i ddarganfod

Time to discover

Castell a Gardd Powis

Powis Castle & Garden

Trallwng, Powys, SY21 8RF

Welshpool, Powys, SY21 8RF

Trefniadau agor 2012 Ar agor bob diwrnod 1 Mawrth – 31 Hydref I gael gwybodaeth am brisiau mynediad a chyngor am fynediad i ymwelwyr gydag anhawsterau symud yna ffoniwch Wasanaethau Ymwelwyr os gwelwch yn dda: 01938 551929

2012 Opening arrangements Open every day 1st March – 31st October For information about admission prices and advice about access for visitors with mobility difficulties please call Visitor Services: 01938 551929 Ffoniwch / Call 01938 551929 Neu ewch i / Or visit nationaltrust.org.uk/powis OR facebook.com/NTPowisCastle

Gwerthfawr Time well spent Rhif Elusen Gofrestredig: 205846 Registered Charity Number: 205846

©National Trust Images

WHAT’S ON IN NORTH WALES

What’s On at Venue Cymru? 8TH MARCH 2012 - STEPHEN VENABLES - THE LEGEND OF ERIC SHIPTON Internationally acclaimed mountaineer, writer and broadcaster Stephen Venables tells the story of legendary mountaineer Eric Shipton in this fast-paced, beautifully illustrated talk that blends historical detail with personal experience. 21ST - 23RD MARCH 2012 – DERREN BROWN: SVENGALI For the past 10 years Derren has created TV and stage performances that have stunned audiences, debunked the paranormal and encouraged many to improve and enhance their own mental abilities. Following sell-out performances Derren hits the road again with the second leg of the tour that started in 2011, Derren Brown: Svengali is sure to be one of the hottest tickets in town, so book now! 4TH APRIL 2012 - WE'LL MEET AGAIN - DIAMOND JUBILEE Back again by public demand, a brand new show starring Marilyn Hill Smith, singing star from the West End Tour of The Sound of Music, together with an all star cast including comedian Adam Daye. The show brings the spirit of the wartime era alive, and recreates the music and memories that kept Britain smiling through her darkest days. Music to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and a celebration of wartime entertainment. 1ST MAY 2012 – SALLY MORGAN - PSYCHIC SALLY: ON THE ROAD Fresh from her new TV Series ‘Psychic Sally On The Road’ on SKY. Britain’s best loved celebrity psychic, Sally Morgan returns by overwhelming public demand. Sally has used her gift over the years to help many people, most notably famous for her work with the late Princess Diana. Sally now brings her amazing abilities and her tremendous personality to the stage with a unique theatrical experience. www.venuecymru.co.uk

Hayley Westenra at the Rhyl Pavillion

1ST MARCH 2012 The Rhyl Pavillion is proud to present Hayley Westenra live and loud for your In 1988, Pavarotti sheer enjoyment. received 165 Accompanied by her very own orchestra, curtain calls and her angelic was applauded melodies will float far into your mind for over an hour and hearts for one after performing night only. Still at the tender age of in Berlin! 24, New Zealand born soprano Hayley Westenra celebrates ten incredible years in the music industry with the release of her fifth studio album, Paradiso. The catalyst for her staggering development was working on this album in Rome with legendary film composer Ennio Morricone and his orchestra. Hayley says: ‘With this album I feel I’ve grown a lot musically and I had a lot more to put into it emotionally. But the bottom line is I was working with a musical genius whose arrangements are out of this world and I had the opportunity to put lyrics to his amazing melodies.’ For more information visit: www.rhylpavilion.co.uk

Eggs for everyone at Llanberis Lake Railway! 6TH – 10TH APRIL

The white rabbit is back at the Llanberis Lake Railway for the annual Easter Egg Hunt! During the Easter Holidays, Llanberis Lake Railway will be operating special trains with a difference: an abundance of chocolate and a gigantic and hopping-mad white rabbit! This is a very popular event, which is ideal for families big or small. Enjoy a journey on the train along the lakeside, whilst hunting for the Easter eggs cunningly hidden around the railway and stations. There will be a prize for each child at the end of the journey and a smiley face comes as standard. Trains run daily from Friday the 6th of April to Tuesday the 10th. Trains depart the main station at Gilfach Ddu (next to the National Slate Museum) at regular intervals between 10.30am and 4.00pm. Normal fares apply and make sure you ask about their family deals – you won’t be disapointed. The shop and cafe will be open and everybody is welcome... happy hunting!

Need a website for £99?

Simon Antrobus has come up with a genius solution to make website ownership accessible (and crucially affordable). Simon says: ‘Your organisation can be judged on the appearance and feel of your website, in fact it could be enough to make or break your entire internet strategy. 360’s services are unmatched for price and workmanship. Our bespoke web designs are custom-made from a blank canvas and we do not depend on any templates, this means we can give shape to your dream site to take your business to the next level.’ Jo Edwards, Artisan Chocolatier at ‘Aballu’ and one of Simon’s customers says: ‘Simon rebuilt my website when I rebranded the company last year. He kept in touch and made sure I was happy with everything as it was being done. I feel very much looked after’ Prices start from just £99. Visit: www.360webmanagement.co.uk for more info.

Stay In The Chapel Of Dreams

Sarah Brookes made the bold decision to renovate an old, dilapidated chapel situated in Abersoch on the Lynn peninsula back in July of 2010. Her goal was to turn this once majestic building into ‘The Chapel of Dreams’; a haven for holiday makers and a home for the family too. Sarah says: ‘I am so happy to finally be on the other side of this mammoth task, it hasn’t been easy to say the least! Each Friday night we drove the 140 miles from Manchester to the chapel to arrive in the dark with only a gas barbecue and pop up tents for warmth. It has taken us over a year to arrive at this point, but when I look at all we’ve achieved I find my self on the brink of tears; I’m just so proud.’ Visit: www.luxurychapelwales.co.uk

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Glyndŵr University Events, Wrexham Spring/Summer 2012

Catrin Finch & té Toumani Diaba h 7.30pm Friday 30th Marc ll Ha n to As William ) 15 (£ 6 £1

Lee Nelson L

ive

Sunday 1st Ap ril 8pm William Aston Hall £22.50

Jimmy Tarbuck

ly 7.30pm Saturday 21st Ju ll Ha William Aston . nc co £20, £18

01978 293293

www.glyndwr.ac.uk/events

Steam Through

Unspoilt Snowdonia

Discover our amazing world of science with 65 interactive hands-on exhibits, puzzles, live science shows and activities all the family will enjoy!

Open all year, Tuesday to Friday from 10am and weekends from 11am. Also open Mondays during school holidays. TQG Science Discovery Centre is located just off Junction 5, A483 Wrexham.

Take a historic steam train trip for Scenic Walks, Waterfalls, Free Museum, Playground, Licensed Cafe, Gift Shop & more! Gorsaf Wharf Station, Tywyn, Gwynedd. LL36 9EY 01654 710472 www.talyllyn.co.uk/26

Kids go for

2 Quid! with an adult/senior

ki ds go

FREE!

www.tqg.org.uk 01978 293400

Present this voucher and one child will be admitted for free when an adult or concession pays full entry price. Valid until 29/04/11. T&C apply. Code 70. YATMAR11

WHAT’S ON IN MID WALES

Green Day Out at Powis Castle

Saturday 28th April 2012, 11:00am – 16:00pm No matter how much we wish to bury our heads in the sand, climate change is happening and it’s about time we became a part of the solution rather than the problem. You can mark the beginning of your fight against climate change by attending ‘Green Day’ at the prestigious Powis Castle in April. The event will help raise the profile of green issues in Wales and show visitors what is being implemented to improve the property’s environmental footprint. The event will be an informative and fun day with stalls, local produce, children’s activities, guided walks and demonstrations. Let’s put our best foot forward and leave the kind of footprints that’ll benefit future generations for years to come. Normal admission prices apply, and there is a small charge for some activities. Visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Also on at Powis Castle

● Stuart Tours – every Tuesday from April until September You receive early entry to the castle and an expert guide will tell you of the Stuarts and their legacy during this significant period in the property’s history. Normal admission price + £3.50. ● Gardening 101 – every Wednesday from April – September The resident gardeners share their expertise, demonstrating some handy tips on how to look after your garden. Normal admission price only. ● Volunteer Recruitment day – 10th March Would you like to be a guide? Please telephone the property for further details on 01938 551929. ● Discover Powis with Lord Powis – 16th March A truly unique opportunity to explore the castle with the Earl of Powis. 10am. Normal admission price + £20. Booking is essential for this event.

Powis Castle named top place for a walk!

Powis Castle has come out top in a poll of the best walking destinations of the UK, as voted for by members of the public. The survey was carried out as part of the National Trust’s first-ever walking festival and saw various celebrities championing key parts of the country. Another reason to visit… as if you needed one!

A shop for all seasons

Open seven days a week If you have never visited Coed-y-dinas in Welshpool, spring is the ideal time of year to do so. Located just off the A483 opposite Powis Castle just south of Welshpool, Coed-y-dinas has absolutely everything you would possibly need for your home and garden. Known as ‘the shop for all seasons’, Coed-y-dinas really is a great day out for all the family and particularly special this time of year is the plant department. See this year’s display gardens for inspiration on garden styles; there is a country cottage garden, oriental, Mediterranean, plus a herb and vegetable garden. Coed-y-dinas have a huge outdoor plant area with absolutely everything you will need to make your garden a haven this spring and summer. From seasonal bedding plants and hanging baskets to hardy shrubs, trees and specimen plants, water features, ornamental pots and friendly, knowledgeable staff who are on-hand to help you. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced gardener you will probably ﬁnd everything you need, including garden furniture, BBQ’s and ornaments to add the ﬁnishing touches. Visit: www.coed-y-dinas.co.uk

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The Easter Bunny Visits Talyllyn Railway

8th April 2012 I hop- hop- hope you’re ready for this; the Easter bunny bounds into action at the Talyllyn Railway this Easter for fun, frolics and foraging! Yes that’s right, an Easter egg hunt with the one and only Mr E. Bunny is on the cards as he makes his annual visit to Tywyn Wharf station. He’ll be greeting children and waving off the trains all day. You can join the Easter Egg hunt with a special prize for the winner. Phil Eaton at Talyllyn says: ‘Great food for all the family will be served at King’s Licensed Café from breakfast to afternoon tea. There will be plenty of time to enjoy the Narrow Gauge Railway Museum where budding engine drivers can climb aboard the cab of a real locomotive and explore the other exhibits. Steam trains are running all day, with ﬁve return trips from Tywyn Wharf, and you can take the train on a fun-ﬁlled journey to Dolgoch Falls or Nant Gwernol. Trains stop at Abergynolwyn for refreshments, home of the Railway Adventure Playground.’ What’s more… Talyllyn Railway have really upped the temptation factor – with 2012 comes the introduction of their ‘Kids go for £2’ ticket, available every day including the Easter Bunny day – at least someone is listening to the pleas of the economic crisis! For more info visit: www.talyllyn.co.uk

MID WALES TOURISM

PLACES TO EAT AND DRINK INVITED TO JOIN NEW WALES TOURISM APP Restaurants, bars and cafés across Wales are being given a chance to be listed on the ﬁrst pan-Wales tourism app of its type for smart phones, which is to be launched around St David’s Day. The ‘Show Me Wales’ app, which provides a comprehensive guide to things to do across the principality, has been developed, with specialist technical support, by the innovative team at Mid Wales Tourism (MWT). The app’s clever GPS function will guide the user directly to the establishment from where they stand. Businesses wishing to be listed should contact Zoe Hawkins at MWT on Tel: 01654 704093 as soon as possible. The free to download app is being complemented by a new mobile website – www.m.showmewales.co.uk – for smart phones, which includes information about events and festivals across Wales for visitors. ‘The app is aimed primarily at staying visitors, independent explorers, families and day visitors,’ says MWT’s chief executive Val Hawkins. ‘It is designed to be used by visitors both pre-visit and whilst they are in Wales. The user-friendly design allows visitors to search, check out what’s ‘around me’, or opt for a featured area, product type or theme.’

Fabergé eggs were commissioned by Czar Alexander III of Russia as an Easter surprise for his wife Maria Fyodorovna

Wonderwool at the Royal Welsh Showgrounds

28th – 29th April Join the Wonderwool team at the Royal Welsh Showground in Builth Wells for the seventh Annual Wonderwool Wales Festival. It’s your chance to enjoy a fantastic range of Welsh and British artisan products and an opportunity to meet the wonderful people who made them. A great family day out with handson workshops and events showcasing the best in Welsh and British wool and natural fibres. Chrissie Menzies of Wonderwool says: ‘Wonderwool Wales has exhibitors and trade stands covering all aspects of felting, knitting, weaving, spinning and crochet along with textile art with raw materials, equipment, books and finished products. There are also demonstrations and a selection of fibre animals on display including sheep, alpacas and Angora rabbits. We hope that you will all be able to join us for what we know will be a fun and fibre-packed weekend! Camping facilities are available on site and can be booked in advance, and a list of accommodation is available on our website.’ Visit: www.wonderwool wales.co.uk

Royal Welsh Show Spring Festival

19th and 20th of May One of the most eagerly anticipated dates of the spring calendar is here again: The Royal Welsh Show Spring Festival. The ‘number one event for smallholding, gardening and sustainable living’, this year’s show promises to be the most exciting yet with an array of stalls, stands and hands-on experiences for all the family. Alongside the old favourites such as livestock sections, falconry and vintage farming machines there is to be Maypole dancing, an unrivalled display of pig breeds and even a gardener’s question time as well as a few surprises! Tickets for this fun-filled festival can be bought on the day at the gate or online at: www.rwas.co.uk

Welshpool Railway

Season begins on March 31st The most relaxing way to watch the world go by is, undoubtably, by train. Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway (above) offers an unforgettable sixteen-mile return journey through the rolling Welsh countryside on a beautiful narrow gauge steam train which will delight the whole family. For more details, visit their website at www.wllr.org.uk

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Explore and enjoy Scenic mid Wales by train. The Heart of Wales railway takes you to a whole range of beautiful towns, villages, forests, valleys and rivers in the unspoiled heartlands of rural Wales. Four trains a day Mon – Sat (two on Sunday) between Shrewsbury (just one change of train from the Midlands, Crewe and the North), Llandrindod Wells and Swansea. Tourist minibus ‘The Towy Valley Explorer’ linking trains at Llandeilo to National Botanic Garden of Wales etc every Thursday April 5th – Oct 25th, also Tuesdays June - Aug. see www.thebusthatmeetsthetrain.co.uk for details Circular Day Ranger ticket Shrewsbury – Llandrindod – Swansea – Cardiff – Hereford – Shrewsbury in either direction: over 270 miles of stunning scenery for just £35 (less with a Railcard) Award winning Restored station café now open at Llandovery Dylan Thomas statue Swansea

Llandrindod

Near Hereford

Train times and fares on www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk Visit www.heart-of-wales.co.uk to see where to go and places to stay.

Advertise yoeu!r busin:ess her Call us on 01978 813035

Or email: yattar.co.uk advertising@yattar

An Intimate Evening with The Unthanks With support from Jonny Kearney and Lucy Farrell Don't miss this opportunity to see The Unthanks close-up and paired down. The Mercury nominated Tynesiders are playing cosier venues for a personal experience. www.the-unthanks.com www,jonnyandlucy.com Sunday 29th April 7:30pm Tickets: 16 Full, 14

Bookings: 01978 841300 Web: www.stiwt.co.uk

Escape to the Heart of Wales Bryn Uchel is a quiet family run Park catering for private holiday homes. �e Park is set within 300 acres of spectacular countryside, overlooking one of the most beautiful valleys in Mid Wales.

�e Park is the perfect place for you to explore the magic of Mid Wales. With medieval market towns and the sandy beaches of the Welsh coast, it’s all within easy reach.

Come and enjoy the pace of nature, whether it is relaxing with a book on the sandy beach of Aberdovey or riding the rapids on the Tryweryn river near Bala. It’s all within the heart of Wales.

If you are thinking of visiting mid Wales, why not pay us a visit?

Call 01650 511441 or visit www.brynuchel.co.uk

River Dee Cruises

RELAX, ENJOY OR CELEBRATE

Take the 30 minute cruise beneath the historic Suspension Bridge, past spectacular houses and tranquil meadows, whilst listening to informative commentary. Sailing every 30 minutes 11.00am till 5.00pm. A relaxing two hour cruise explores the magical riverscape teeming with wildlife and breathtaking views. Sailing 12.00 noon & 2.30pm Whit week, weekends June & September and daily July & August. Chester by Boat and Bus See all of the famous sights, buy a joint saver ticket onboard for a 30 minute Guided River Cruise and an Open Top Bus Tour. Make the most of your visit to Chester. MASSIVE SAVINGS if you buy your combined ticket on the boat. Themed cruises every Saturday night with disco & BBQ supper onboard. Choose from Mamma Mia, Saturday Night Fever or 60's, 70's & 80's rewind. Booking is essential. Celebration charter cruise, a unique nautical venue for your special occasion, with entertainment and food.

All cruises sail from the boating station on The Groves, Chester.

Telephone: 01244 325394 • www.chesterboat.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN CHESHIRE What’s on at... Tatton Park

Tatton Park is one of the UK’s most complete historic estates and each year plays host to more than 100 fabulous events.

● EASTER CRAFTS & SHOPPING FAIR, 7-9 APRIL Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of a special Bank Holiday event. Packed with home décor and furnishing ideas, arts and crafts and gifts for the family. Call 01530 834056 for more information. ● ALICE IN WONDERLAND FESTIVAL, 7-9 APRIL Prepare to wear your widest ‘Cheshire Cat’ smile at Tatton Park this Easter! An enchanting ‘Alice in Wonderland’ event with activities taking place across the park. ● LAMBING WEEK AT THE FARM, 10-15 APRIL Will you be lucky enough to see the Tatton lambs being born? This year the Tatton lambing team have synchronised their ewes to lamb within a 10 day period. Informative talks and live viewing via their webcam. ● BEEFY'S GREAT BRITISH WALK,15 APRIL Sir Ian Botham will walk more than six marathons over ten consecutive days through ten towns in support of life-saving research into blood cancers. Beefy will walk to Tatton Park where you can join him and his celebrity friends to walk the final miles. Visit www. leukaemialymphomaresearch.org.uk. ● ANTIQUES & FINE ART FAIR, 27-29 APRIL Features fifty leading antiques and fine art dealers from across the UK.

Cholmondeley Castle Gardens: Cheshire’s Finest

This rural haven attracts thousands of visitors each year eager to enjoy these spectacular surroundings. One of Cheshire’s Gardens of Distinction, Cholmondeley lies 10 miles from Nantwich near the Village of Malpas. Owned by the Cholmondeley family since the 12th Century this is now home to Lavinia, the Dowager Marchioness of Cholmondeley. The picturesque temple water gardens are the ‘piece de resistance’ of Cholmondeley Gardens, with its lakeside and woodland walks, children’s play areas, tea room, gift shop and farm animals which include llamas and alpacas. Open Wednesdays, Thurdays, Sundays & Bank Holidays 1st April to the 30th September 11-5pm. Visit: www. cholmondeley castle.com

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Join Cheshire Wildlife Trust’s 50th Anniversary Celebrations!

Discover your wild side as Cheshire Wildlife Trust reaches its fiftieth year, and hosts a summer of events to get you back to nature. In 1962, the Cheshire Conservation Trust (later to become the Wildlife Trust) set out to make the county a better place for wildlife, and 50 years on they’re doing pretty well – with more than 40 nature reserves and a host of projects bringing back creatures like the diminutive (and very rare) dormouse (right), small pearl-bordered fritillary butterflies, and ‘Ratty’ of Wind in the Willows fame – the water vole. The birthday celebrations kick-off with Springwatch favourite Chris Packham giving a talk in March, followed just a few days later by the launch of the Trust’s new visitor centre at Wigg Island near Runcorn, when there will be something for all the family at this eco-friendly centre on the shores of the Mersey. Later in the month it’s the turn of mother nature to set the scene, as the Trust introduces visitors to the carpets of wild flowers throughout our woodlands with bluebells and anenomes becoming the stars of the show. A ‘Discovery Day’ at Grosvenor Park in May will give everyone a chance to get up close and personal to everything from newts to moths and birds of prey, whilst later in the year the Trust will be taking their friendly Longhorn cows out on tour! If its ‘natural know how’ you’re after, the Trust’s easy to follow courses can get you out and about looking for river mammals (like the elusive otter), trying country crafts or getting to grips with knowing your blackcap from your barn owl with a Bird I.D. day. All events are listed on Cheshire Wildlife Trust’s website at www.cheshirewildlifetrust.org.uk, and you can also check them out on Facebook.

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Alice in Wonderland's Easter Tea Party

The Brindley Theatre, High Street, Runcorn

13th-15th March 2012 Fancy a trip down memory lane? Nostalgia just doesn’t come any better than this! The West End is about to unleash its razzle dazzle on Runcorn. All Our Yesterdays is another sensational show from the producers of Memory Lane, Rolling back the Years, and A Timeless Collection. One of the biggest shows of its kind in the UK, All Our Yesterdays takes you on a breathtaking musical journey from the good old days of Music Hall, through the 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, and ﬁnally into some of the beautiful harmonies of the 1970’s. The show is beautifully costumed and choreographed, and performed by West End and international vocalists, along with the stunning Memory Lane dancers. Adapted from the original show from 2010, this new and improved version excites and delights with a host of new songs and costumes. Call 0151 907 8360 for bookings.

SATURDAY 24TH MARCH 2012, NANTWICH CIVIC HALL, 10AM - 4PM. It’s time to take a glimpse through the Looking Glass. But what will you see? Our guess would be the most wonderful family day out with your loved ones and some well known characters from everyone’s favourite children’s classic. From workshops to shows and exhibitions, there will be plenty for children of all ages to enjoy, including stalls selling various products including pottery, cupcakes, jewellery and clothes. Tickets will be sold on the door and can also be purchased in advance with the ﬁrst 100 children receiving a free gift! The Mad Hatter’s Tea Room will be serving sandwiches, cakes and tea but absolutely no jam – jam yesterday, jam tomorrow but no jam today! Also featuring live performances on stage and your little darlings can meet and have tea with the characters themselves! Your chance to attend the most popular tea party of 2012. Contact the White Chocolate Events Team on: 01462 769 600

Did you know? Lewis Carroll suffered with a stammer, which meant he was not allowed to join the priesthood

Illustration from John Tenniel

Cheshire Pony Parties!

When you visit Cheshire Pony Parties you will be greeted with a warm welcome! Not only does Amanda create unforgettable pony parties for children, her animals also provide wonderful pony experiences to entertain children during the school holidays. A few recent testimonials from happy customers read: ‘A friend told me you’re wonderful with the children’, ‘It was the most stress-free party I’ve ever been to’, ‘Can I come back every day?’ Most visitors have exclusive access to the idyllic orchard and gentle ponies, with the emphasis on fun, confidence-building and informal learning. Amanda can advise suitable activities and format for your child’s party based on the age of the birthday child and number of guests. She can also take care of virtually everything from party teas to fantastic birthday cake, from luxury-filled pony party bags to candles and invites, enabling you to relax and enjoy your child’s special day. For a truly enchanting experience please visit www.cheshireponyparties.co.uk or ring Amanda on 01829 219106

Lambing Weekend!

Last weekend in February and the first weekend in March 10am – 4pm Springtime; the season of re-birth and awakening. And it’s a time when our own little lambs are beginning to get very frisky after a long, dark, mopey winter. May we suggest a great day out? Reaseheath College in Nantwich is opening its doors to the public so you can witness the joys of spring first hand! Over two magical weekends you can see ewes giving birth to well over 500 lambs – a very special time of year on the farm. There will also be opportunity to see other animals which live at the management centre too. Competitions, mini-tractors, face painting, refreshments and plant sales are all there as well. This is a unique opportunity to get out in the fresh air and educate all the family. Learn where food comes from and how much work is involved for the farmer. Adults £5, children and OAP £4, under threes are free of charge, family ticket £15 (two adults and two children). Call 01270 613215 for more info.

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WHAT’S ON IN CHESHIRE

Spring Film Releases 2012 IS TIPPED AS THE YEAR OF ‘SUPERHEROES AND SEQUELS’. WITH 3D VIEWING PROVING EVER POPULAR, MORE AND MORE FILMS ARE PRODUCED WITH THE EXTRA DIMENSION IN MIND. SPIDERMAN COMES CRAWLING BACK TO THE SCREEN THIS YEAR AS DOES BATMAN AND THE AVENGERS. WE’VE FOUND A GOOD MIX TO KEEP YOUR MOVIE-GOING EXPERIENCE A SUPER ONE! Contraband – staring Mark Wahlberg, Ben Foster and Kate Beckinsale, directed by Baltasar Kormakur. An action-thriller about a man trying to stay out of a world he worked hard to leave behind and the family he’ll do anything to protect. Set in New Orleans, the ﬁlm explores the cutthroat underground world of international smuggling - full of desperate criminals and corrupt ofﬁcials, high-stakes and big pay-offs where loyalty rarely exists and death is one wrong turn away. Eagerly awaited and highly praised. 4/5

MAKING POTS e p gr e s s

o th

The Three Stooges – staring Sean Hayes, Chris Diamantopoulos and Will Sasso, directed by the Farrelly Brothers. There have been numerous manifestations of The Three Stooges but their relationship with MGM dates back to 1933 when the trio appeared in a series of shorts and features. The Farrelly Brothers have been working on a modernisation of the Stooges’ ‘slapstick with heart’ concept since the mid-90s. But it was their decision to focus on an original story for Larry, Moe and Curly and thus introduce the three to a new generation that pushed the picture onto the fast track. Audiences have embraced The Stooges in a variety of media; vaudeville, shorts, television and home video but for Peter Farrelly ‘the communal nature of a theatrical feature remains the best experience.’ 4/5

6th – 9th April 2012 This Easter, the National Waterways Museum is hosting a meeting of narrowboats from across the UK. Boats will be arriving from Friday April 6th, you can spend a relaxing hour or two walking around these beautifully crafted crafts; some might say you'll be in ‘oar’ of their outstanding stature and design (ahem…). You can cap the day off with a host of entertainment including stalls, craft demonstrations and musicians singing traditional sea shanties. Make your Easter weekend one to remember... all aboard! Visit: www.nwm.org.uk

We use it everyday – the all important cup of tea is drunk from it, your daily meal is eaten off it and many of your treasured ornaments are made from it – but what are we talking about? Pottery of course! Where would we be without it? How about having a go at making your own… In the heart of the Cheshire countryside is The Firs Pottery, built up by Joy and Ken Wild over many years. They offer the unique opportunity to create your Visit The Firs Pottery in the village of Aston own and specialise inwhite oven (A530 pottery, Nantwich to Whitchurch, follow the brown on signs).and microwave ware, lamps, castle bowls, vases and planters, A wide variety of stoneware and porcelain pottery all of which are showcased in- the shoptheand showroom adjacent to which is is made buy from makers! Open most days 9:00am - 6:00pm the most important room of all… the workshop. Here you’ll be days ablewetohave seeclasses the craftsmen work, learn their skills for Some or have a go at on the wheel! Please telephone e-mail for details. yourself and beginorsculpting some ceramic sensations of your own. Workshops are Cheshire, held twice weekly for individuals, Sheppenhall Lane, Aston, Nantwich, CW5 8DE Telephone: 01270 780345 groups, beginners or advanced pupils. Spend the whole day joywild@firspottery.co.uk working with clay under the expert guidance of Joy and Ken in groups of no more than eight. A light lunch and tea and www.firspottery.co.uk coffee are included. If only visiting for one day you can take the unfired, unglazed pots home with you but if you wish, Joy will dry your pots, glaze and fire them for you to be collected later. Deposit of £5 on booking. A voucher scheme is available – so buy one for a friend! Get yourself fired up today! Visit www. firspottery.co.uk for more booking information.

The Firs Pottery

Turn to page 102 to see the competitions we have this issue – just answer the questions to win!

Wettest County – staring Gary Oldman, Tom Hardy and Shia LaBeouf, directed by John Hillcoat. Based on the true story of Matt Bondurant’s grandfather and two granduncles, The Wettest County is a gripping tale of brotherhood, greed, and murder. The Bondurant Boys were a notorious gang of roughnecks and moonshiners who ran liquor through Franklin County, Virginia, during Prohibition and in the years after. Forrest, the eldest brother, is fierce, indestructible, and the consummate businessman; Howard, the middle brother, is an ox of a man besieged by the horrors he witnessed in the Great War; and Jack, the youngest, has a taste for luxury and a dream to get out of Franklin. Driven and haunted, these men forge a business, fall in love, and struggle to stay afloat as they watch their family die, their father’s business fail, and the world they know crumble beneath the Depression and drought. In the twilight of his career, Anderson finds himself driving along dusty red roads trying to find the Bondurant brothers, piece together the clues linking them to ‘The Great Franklin County Moonshine Conspiracy’ and break open the silence that shrouds Franklin County. This story is played out with real authenticity by its all-star cast, their passion for this story can be clearly seen; go and see it! 4.5/5

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The Avengers – staring Robert Downey Jr, Scarlett Johansson and Samuel L. Jackson, Directed by Joss Whedon. Tipped as one of the biggest block-busters of 2012, this thrilling meeting of heroic characters plucked directly from the Marvel comics is definitely a date for the diary. ‘When an unexpected enemy emerges who threatens global safety and security, Nick Fury, the director of the international peacekeeping agency known as S.H.I.E.L.D, finds himself in need of a team of superheroes to pull the world back from the brink of disaster.’ Iron Man, Captain America, Hulk, Thor, Black Widow and a whole host of other comic characters blast onto the screens in April. With a cast of the world’s most prestigious A-list celebrities this iconic film is one for the whole family. 5/5

Easter Boat Gathering and Sea Shanty Sing-Song!

Pianos Cymru in Chester!

Pianos Cymru are a family-run ﬁrm who have specialised in pianos since 1970. Their simple approach to business is to treat customers as they like to be treated themselves – with respect and honesty. For many years Pianos Cymru have been entrusted with supplying and maintaining pianos for major music festivals across the UK, and in doing so have met and been privileged to carry out work for big international stars from Jose Carreras to Jamie Cullum. Ian Jones says: 'We do not forget our roots, we are honoured to be working in partnership with the likes of Cantabile Agency and Ysgol Glanaethwy, who work hard in promoting and educating the stars of tomorrow. A brand new showroom has been unveiled in Chester too; so now you needn't drive too far wherever you live to get the piano of your dreams.’

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NEW FOR 20

THREE MIXED S ROSE BORDER

The Firs Pottery Visit The Firs Pottery in the village of Aston (A530 Nantwich to Whitchurch, follow the brown on white signs).

A wide variety of stoneware and porcelain pottery is made - buy from the makers! Open most days 9:00am - 6:00pm Some days we have classes or have a go on the wheel! Please telephone or e-mail for details.

THE GARDEN OFFERS: Spectacular views into the surrounding countryside. Superb plant collections including: camellias, magnolias, rhododendrons, herbaceous perennials, alpines, roses, etc. Inspiring design ideas to take home. Inspirational informal and intimate garden landscaping. A place of rest and relaxation for all the family. A place of horticultural education. Excellent home-baking and seasonal menu. Come along and discover one of Staffordshireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s treasures.

Sheppenhall Lane, Aston, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 8DE Telephone: 01270 780345 joywild@firspottery.co.uk

www.firspottery.co.uk

01630 647237 email: info@dorothyclivegarden.co.uk

STYLISH SHOPPING

IN THE HEART OF CHESTER Over 70 stores. 450 parking spaces. Open 7 days a week

WHAT’S ON IN SHROPSHIRE

The Dorothy Clive Garden

The Dorothy Clive Garden – a charitable garden trust – was set up in 1958 by Colonel Harry Clive as a place of rest and recreation and continued horticultural education for the general public. The garden, originally a disused quarry, was transformed by Clive into a woodland garden for his wife Dorothy, who was suffering from Parkinson’s disease. Colonel Clive’s ambition was to create a beautiful and fascinating garden where his ailing wife Dorothy could enjoy her daily walks. The garden subsequently became the focus of the Colonel’s life. Now managed by expert horticulturalist and BBC gardening show panellist Marcus Chilton-Jones, the garden has gone from strength to strength. It is both formal and informal – hosting a network of paths that invite the visitor to explore and discover. Located in glorious countryside on the Shropshire and Cheshire borders, the setting is home to many different species of wildlife such as bees, birds and various butterflies. Highlights of the garden include an alpine scree, laburnum arch, woodland waterfall, rose walk and cottage garden. There are also spectacular summer borders and a wide selection of plants and unusual species. There is a quintessential English tearoom, a newly designed children’s play area and a gift shop selling local crafts, jewellery and jams, chutneys and pickles. There are various workshops and events taking place throughout the season. Please visit www.dorothyclivegarden.co.uk

Abberley Hall – The Kids Will Love You!

From riding stables to a shooting range and climbing wall – pupils at Abberley Hall School in Worcestershire are spoilt for choice when it comes to extra-curricular facilities. The preparatory school in Great Witley is set in 90 acres of spectacular rural parkland and offers an impressive range of sports and activities. Abberley Hall’s team of experienced staff run a vast array of events, courses, classes, away-days, trips and sports to keep their pupils amused and occupied when they are not busy learning. Headmaster, John Walker says: ‘Our stables and menagerie are increasingly popular with boarders who can keep their ponies here and enjoy the safe routes around our private estate, as well as receiving lessons from qualiﬁed riding instructors. The fact that we have stunning views over seven counties obviously makes this an ideal site for riding.’ There is a strong outward bound programme throughout the year at the school, visit: www.abberleyhall.co.uk

The Magic of Motown Hits Theatre Severn

Thursday 22nd March ‘Ain’t no mountain high, ain’t no valley low, ain’t no river wide enough’ – to keep The Magic of Motown concert from reaching UK music lovers this year! Ofﬁcially the UK’s busiest touring production, there are already 49 dates announced for its 2012 tour and more are being added daily. ‘There’s no need to worry, it’ll be there in a hurry’ says show producer Michael Taylor, borrowing unashamedly from the Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell hit Ain’t No Mountain High Enough. ‘In 2012, once again our hit show from the US will be appearing at great venues across the country, and Theatre Severn in Shrewsbury just happens to be one of them!’ The non-stop spectacular features 36 massive chart-toppers from The Supremes, Temptations, Four Tops, Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Martha Reeves, Lionel Richie and more. An all-star cast, a talented live band WIN TICKETS! that faithfully reproduces Motown’s Two pairs of tickets up original Detroit sound and tightly for grabs! Answer the choreographed dance routines saw following question and the show attract glowing reviews email to editorial@ in 2011. For your chance to see this yattaryattar.co.uk. First show-stopping spectacular visit: two received www.theatresevern.co.uk will win. Who was the

late lead singer of Jackson 5?

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Walford’s Lambing Day Springs into Life!

11th March , Walford College, Baschurch The arrival of spring lambs at Walford College is always cause for celebration; the lambs attract great interest from the students and teachers alike. They’re not the only ones however – on the 11th March, Walford opens its doors to the general public for the highly acclaimed ‘Spring Lambing Day’. There will be many displays including equine, countryside, dog agility, vintage and contemporary machinery, milking and quad biking. Visitors will be able to attend the lambing sheds, and may even see a lamb being born! There are also calves to see which are equally as cute. There are tractor and trailer rides around the farm and a climbing wall for those brave enough. Over at the Harris Centre, visitors can get up-close and personal with over 90 species of animals. See meerkats, snakes, alpacas and hawks to name but a few. There will be chicks hatching on the day, a treasure hunt, face painting, a floristry display, dog grooming and food and drinks available including a hog roast. At just £8 per car, its great value for money and a great day out for all the family. Visit: www.wnsc.ac.uk for more information.

Six of the best Spring spectaculars! Goodbye long, cold winter – hello budding spring-time with all its regrowth and regeneration. Each day brings a lighter evening and the feel-good factors are in abundance! But what shall we do now that the joys of spring are upon us…?

The cliché clean. Yes, it couldn’t be anymore obvious – spring clean the home. This deep cleaning symbolises new beginnings in all areas of life. Out with the old and in with the new! Leave no corner unturned and no cobweb undiscovered. TIP: take all your unwanted clothes and nicknacks to the charity shops; one man’s hand-me-downs are another man’s treasure. Spring clean yourself. Go and look in the mirror – has the winter taken its toll? Are we a little squidgier around the edges than usual? Then Spring is the time to act on this. Treat yourself to a new hair due and colour, or why not go to town and get the works; nails, hair, clothes and accessories! See new life. Spring lambs and calves are frolicking about, but venture further and you’ll see the ‘budburst’ in the hedgerows and woods as the leaves and ﬂowers are reborn. You may see a few bumblebees humming around too; these will be the queens in search of a new nest after hibernating in the winter. Keep an ear out for chiffchaffs and cuckoos. Another sign of spring is the spawning of the frogs and toads in ponds and lakes, so look out for the jelly-like masses that will start to appear. Good weather for ducks! True, the warmer weather is on the way but no British springtime is complete without a good downpour. Wrap those kiddies up in their macs and go and enjoy a good splash in the puddles. Take some hot chocolate for the kids and some bread for the ducks! Book a weekend break – it’s been a good few months since we all had some down-time during the winter break. Life is beginning to get a little stressful once again. Stop, ﬁnd a nice little hide-away somewhere and go. It doesn’t need to be expensive but it will do you the world of good. Tip: log cabin breaks are still relatively cheap this time of year; prices at Trawsfynydd Holiday Village in Snowdonia start at £170. Cruise the canals – our area of North Wales and the borders has one of the loveliest, and not to mention longest, canal systems in the UK – and has been named a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Now is the time to actually experience what all this incredible heritage has to offer. Trips at Llangollen Wharf start at just £3.00 for horse-drawn trips, aqueduct trips from £10.00 and hire holidays from £115.

2 3 Totally Gaga at The Venue

23rd March 2012 Fancy a night of fun, frolics and fame? The Venue at Park Hall has a feisty one in store for you this March. The Lady Gaga tribute act is coming to town, so puckerup your poker face and alert the paparazzi because no other tribute act even comes close! Totally Gaga has built a reputation as one of the brightest and most versatile vocal entertainers in the UK, Allannah (Totally Gaga) has turned her time, attention and talents to emulating Lady Gaga in a stunning tribute that is as close to the real thing as you’re ever likely to see. Add to this the lively atmosphere and high-spec facilities found at The Venue and you are in for one ‘monster’ of a night! Doors open at 7:30pm, tickets are £10 per person. Visit: www.gotothevenue.com for bookings and information.

Spring Gala at Severn Valley Railway

23rd, 24th and 25th March 2012 The Spring Gala is the first big event in any highly ‘es-steamed’ (boom boom!) engine enthusiast’s diary and this year the one and only ‘Steam Railway’ magazine is hopping on board. David Mee at Severn Valley Railway says: ‘The SVR Spring Steam Gala makes a welcome return and moves to a new springtime date. This event is sponsored for the first time by ‘Steam Railway’ magazine which will have a stand at Kidderminster station. For a full three days we will be operating an intensive service of trains over the whole length of the line, with no fewer than four visiting locomotives which will be supported by engines from the home fleet. Tickets for what promises to be a great start to the steam enthusiasts year are now on sale at discount prices from www.svr.co.uk

4 5

The origins of ‘spring cleaning’ can be traced back to the ancient Jewish tradition of cleansing the home before Passover

Spring 2012 yattaryattar magazine 27

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23/02/2012 16:54

Llanberis Lake Railway Steam trains in the Heart of Snowdonia

Gail and Peter Bell invite you to stay at their holiday cottages in one of the most outstanding areas of the country.

vintage vintage steam steam trains trains one one hour hour trips trips z z café, café, gift gift shop shop and and toilets toilets z z disabled disabled facilities facilities z z FREE FREE coach coach parking parking z z excellent excellent driver driver facilities facilities z z z z

We We are are open open most most days days Easter Easter to to October, October, daily daily June June to to August. August. Also Also open open during during February/ February/ March, March, and and Turkey Turkey & & Tinsel Tinsel trips trips in in November November

Wye View Cottages Wye View Cottages offers you selfcatering holiday cottages in the heart of Wales.

For group rates and reservations Call us on (01286) 870549 Padarn Park, Llanberis. LL55 4TY www.lake-railway.co.uk

Wye View self-catering cottages Tel/fax: 01686 440205 Tel 24h: 07887 985069

www.wyeview.org.uk

Network Singles Single, Separated, Divorced, Widowed... Are you new to the area? Are you bored? Do you need to change your lifestyle? Do you feel isolated, lonely, fed up at looking at the same four walls and in a rut? Each month we have a large programme of social events held all over Shropshire. For people aged 30 years upwards. We are not a dating agency and cannot guarantee you will meet your soul mate, but you will have a fantastic social life with new friends. For more details please contact Cherryl on 01743 242454 (answerphone) or 07868 703060 e-mail: cherryl@networksingles.co.uk www.networksingles.co.uk Now includes online dating site www.onlinenetworksingles.co.uk an online dating website for those who do want to get back to the dating scene and make friends or meet future partners.

Goff Danter, the renowned Welsh artist, has been taking the art world by storm in South Wales and is now heading North. His narrative work concentrates on Nostalgic Welsh, Industrial and Fairground Art. He is now regarded as one of the most sought after artists of his generation. He will be exhibiting at the Electric Mountain Gallery, Llanberis from 26th March – 1st May 2012.

www.goffdanter.co.uk contact@goffdanter.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN SHROPSHIRE

Spring Reads

RIVER COTTAGE VEG EVERY DAY, BY HUGH FEARNLEY-WHITTINGSTALL Our reviewer says: ‘First let me start by saying I’m not a huge fan of Mr. Fearnley-Whittingstall. I say this not to be mean, but to emphasise that I am now a devotee of River Cottage and its fearless leader just from reading this book. I’ve recently been focusing on the need to add more veg to my diet, but all my vegetarian cookbooks either try to replace meat, chuck veg in with some pasta or into a pie, or have a list of exotic ingredients as long as my arm. This book doesn’t focus on what’s missing in a vegetarian diet, but focuses on the veg and how to make them taste great in a number of simple ways. Add meat if you wish, but you really won’t miss it if you don’t.’ 5/5

Drive a Steam Locomotive at Telford Steam Railway

From Easter to September 2012 It’s all aboard the Telford Steam Railway, but hold on… is that dad at the wheel? Indeed it is; and doesn’t he look a picture! This dream is now achievable and we can guarantee it would make a fantastic present for any steam train enthusiast. You can even choochoo-choose from a selection of custom-made courses. With half day excursions starting at just £60 it’s going to be a hard task to talk yourself out of purchasing the perfect present for that man in your life. All courses include a safety talk about the operation of the locomotive before you get to light up your chosen engine, and then take the controls. Also included in the price is one year’s membership to the Telford Steam Railway. An enjoyable day for the whole family – don’t forget the camera! Booking is essential, visit: www. telfordsteamrailway.co.uk.

Did you know? In 1878 in the US, when the ﬁrst ever telephone book was printed, it contained only 50 names

BEFORE I GO TO SLEEP BY S. J WATSON Our reviewer says: ‘I found myself reading this book into the wee small hours, and really had to tear myself away from it and go to sleep. The main character Christine loses her memory when she goes to sleep and has to start afresh every time she wakes up. She begins to keep a diary, writing down what happens to her each day as recommended by her doctor who calls her each day to remind her of her journal and where it’s hidden. As the book progresses you begin to realise that something isn’t right. I had to keep reading to ﬁnd out what was going to happen next, and it builds up to a brilliant crescendo.’ 5/5

Bike 4 Life – The Easter Egg Run!

1st April 2012 Here’s one for the motorcycle enthusiasts amongst you – the RAF Museum has teamed up with Midlands Air Ambulance to create an Easter egg hunt with a difference! Thousands of bikers from across the country are expected to join together for a massive ‘Ride Out’ of egg-pic proportions (ahem). The fourth annual charity motorcycle run sees motor-heads from all over the UK embark on a journey from Meole Brace Park to the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford in Shropshire en masse at 11.30am. For your chance to join this wild and worthy cause, register your details now at www.rafmuseum.org.uk

Ellesmere College in Astro-turf Extravaganza!

You’ll find a flurry of excitement amongst hockey players at Ellesmere College as plans to create a high-tech astroturf pitch at the school are well under way. Last term, following a six-figure donation by the Old Ellesmerian Trust, the School’s Council made the decision to go ahead and install an astroturf pitch on part of the additional land that the school bought in 2009. The astroturf will further enhance the sporting facilities at the school. Helen Davenport, Head of Physical Education, says: ‘It was great to return to the school at the beginning of term and see the progress that has been made with the preparation of the ground. The hockey coaches and pupils are delighted by this development and look forward to the all-year round on-site training possibilities that the astroturf will give us.’ This is just another brilliant addition to a college which is already making waves in the education sector. For more information about Ellesmere college visit: www.ellesmere.com

Visit the Yattar Yattar website www.yattaryattar.com

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Mother’s Day Sunday18th March WHERE CAN WE TAKE OUR MOTHERS ON THEIR SPECIAL DAY? IT ONLY HAPPENS ONCE A YEAR; MUMS NEED TO BE SPOILED AND FUSSED OVER AND IT’S IMPORTANT WE SHOW OUR APPRECIATION FOR ALL THEY DO FOR US – AFTER ALL, WE ONLY HAVE ONE. LET’S MAKE MOTHER’S DAY 2012 THE YEAR THAT MUMS EVERYWHERE REALISE HOW MUCH THEY’RE LOVED, AND HERE’S A FEW IDEAS TO HELP YOU ON YOUR WAY… Tatton Park – Mothering Sunday Afternoon Treat, 18 March Treat Mum to tea and cakes in Tatton Park’s mansion and a visit to the estate’s beautiful 50-acre garden. A table will be reserved for you in Lord Egerton’s Apartment, with stunning views over the Italian terrace and parkland, where you’ll enjoy a selection of sandwiches, freshly baked scones and cakes with tea and coffee. You can then stroll around the award-winning gardens. Pre-booking is essential: 01625 374456. Powis Castle – Mother’s Day, Sunday 18th March, 11am-4pm Take your mum for a relaxing walk in the gardens followed by a delicious roast lunch in the restaurant. In celebration of Mother’s Day all accompanied mums will receive a free gift, fit for a lady, on entry. Visit Powis Castle and Gardens to find out more. Normal admission prices apply. Pre-book on 01938 551944. Clwyd Theatr Cymru – Leonid Gorokhov, 18th March One of the finest cellists of his generation, Leonid Gorokhov has won major prizes throughout Europe. A long-term artistic collaborator with the late Yehudi Menuhin, Gorokhov is a founder member of the Hermitage String Trio and returns regularly to Russia to play with the Conservatoire Orchestra and St Petersburg Philharmonic. The Dorothy Clive Garden – Spring Walks, 18th March 2012 Enjoy a spring walk at The Dorothy Clive Garden, close to where Cheshire, Staffordshire and Shropshire meet. Perfect for long strolls with mother in beautiful surroundings and a tasty treat or two.

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WHAT’S ON IN SHROPSHIRE

Local Author Review:

What’s On at Oakengates Theatre?

Highly Unsuitable Girl

Who are you Anya Cave? Are you that attractive, intelligent girl who will go to university and find out how to make a real success of your life or are you that promiscuous little girl who’ll end up throwing everything away? Anya Cave is, according to her disapproving future mother-in-law, a highly unsuitable girl. With her dubious background, brash demeanour and distinct lack of class, there is no way she will ever be accepted into either Kathleen Philips’ home or affections. Highly Unsuitable Girl follows Anya through over thirty years of long-buried family secrets, ill-judged liaisons and hedonistic exploits until she finally arrives at a degree of self-acceptance and maturity. With its wickedly well-painted characters and intriguing storyline, this novel is a beautifully observed, sometimes shocking account of power, regret and self-discovery. From its captivating first paragraph to its ultimately satisfying, although unexpected conclusion, Highly Unsuitable Girl manages to simultaneously draw you in and instil fierce protectiveness over its flawed heroine because, after all, there is a little of Anya Cave in each and every one of us. Highly Unsuitable Girl is published by Troubador and is available in paperback format, i-books and Kindle. Learn more about Carolyn and her books at www. carolynmccrae.com

Landstone

Opening 16th and 17th March Move over B&Q, out of the way Homebase – there’s a new arrival on the block. Paving worries will soon be a thing of the past with a new showroom opening at the Gledrid Retail Park near Moreton. John Clifford, managing director Award-winning, at the well-established Shropshire-based Westminster Stone is author Carolyn launching ‘Landstone’. McCrae, like Email: editorial@yattaryatJohn says: ‘If you are the heroine of looking to create a sense tar.co.uk with the answer her most recent of harmony within your to this question: ‘What is novel, was home or garden then the name of Anya’s future born in 1950 on whatever your style, all mother-in-law?’ The first the Wirral. Also, that’s needed is a little five correct entries like Anya Cave, inspiration – which is where received will win she attended we come in. Landstone raises a copy. Liverpool University the standard of traditional but that is where the similarities landscaping materials, all of end! ‘The book is a work of fiction,’ she smiles, which are manufactured to ‘The characters portrayed are from my own imagination a high specification and thus but everyone, to some extent, must write from their own are suitable for a myriad of experience of life and people.’ Carolyn credits her love of projects: a swimming pool, books to Charles Dickens – she was encouraged to read his terrace, driveway, patio, works from an early age and it was from him she learned pathway – in fact any paved that people are complex beings, a theme often explored or tiled area. Most of our in her writing. Highly Unsuitable Girl is Carolyn’s latest work – ranges are equally at home her previous novels include The Last Dance, Walking Alone indoors and out. We have a and Runaways, the first of which won the prestigious David strong landscape and design St John Thomas award for self-published novels in 2006. background enabling us to Winning that particular award was important to Carolyn appreciate and overcome the because: ‘It meant that my book was worthwhile, that difficulties involved in designing people enjoyed reading it and that the formal mainstream and building challenging publishing world didn’t hold the monopoly on identifying projects. We pride ourselves potentially popular books. The best prize, however, Is when in offering practical advice someone tells me that they’ve enjoyed one of my books and support and provide a or asks, ‘When is the next one coming out?’ Hopefully, the friendly and reliable service.’ answer to that particular question will be ‘soon’ because Throughout the two-day event now, as she approaches retirement, she has the time to happy shoppers can also write the books she has had in her head for years and, witness a wide range of events if they are anything like Highly Unsuitable Girl, we can’t wait! and promotions – time to make that dream patio a reality. www.pavingandflooring.com

Meet the author Carolyne McCrae

WIN! WIN! WIN! FIVE COPIES TO GIVE AWAY

Oakengates Theatre is one of Telford’s top première attractions. It has the means to satisfy all your entertainment needs… Jimeoin – Comedy – Wednesday 7th March 8:00pm Hilarious show of world-class standup as Irish-Australian super-star Jimeoin, internationally hailed as one of live comedy’s masters and multi-award winner, presents his new show for one night only. Fascinating Aida – Comedy/ Drama – Friday 9th March 7:30pm Continuing their smash-hit, sell-out 2011 tour, three times Olivier Award nominated and now an internet sensation, Fascinating Aida are still Britain's best comedy cabaret trio. Tony Stockwell – Psychic Medium – Friday 23rd March 7:30pm Tony Stockwell has a special gift. He can communicate with spirits, decipher their messages and share them with those who have lost people dear to them. Swan Lake – Vienna Festival Ballet – Wednesday 18th April 7pm One of the best-known love stories, performed by the ever popular Vienna Festival Ballet. Lavish costumes, stunning scenery, international stars, and the glorious music from Tchaikovsky make this a night not to be missed. Further details are also available from the Box Ofﬁce on (01952) 382382 or at www.theplacetelford.com

30 yattaryattar magazine Spring 2012

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COMING SOON TO SHREWSBURY’S THEATRE SEVERN... THURSDAY 29 - SATURDAY 31 MARCH Inspired by a true story, Peter Shaffer’s unique psychological thriller explores the complex relationships between worship, myth and sexuality.

WEDNESDAY 8 - SUNDAY 12 FEBRUARY 2012

ALSO BOOKING • EVA CASSIDY STORY • MAGIC OF MOTOWN • DAVE SPIKEY

• CLARE TEAL • SENSE & SENSIBILITY • COUNTERFEIT STONES

CHECK THE WEBSITE FOR FULL LISTING S

Box Office 01743 281 281 Book Online www.theatresevern.co.uk

Theatre Severn, Frankwell Quay, Shrewsbury SY3 8FT

WHAT’S ON IN SHROPSHIRE

Local Author Review:

What’s On at the Qube, Oswestry?

I Am Dead

‘Hello. My name is Peter Smith. I am dead.’ Peter Smith, a rather unremarkable man whilst alive, made a devastating mistake during his last day on earth and allowed a young co-worker, Lauren, to die. Sent back in time with strict instructions to rectify his blunder, Smith again fails to follow his pre-ordained course and becomes the catalyst for an unexpected and deadly chain of events. I Am Dead, the ambitious ﬁrst novel by Wrexham-born author Gareth Wiles, is a veritable treat for fans of the psychological thriller. Thought-provoking and intense, terrifying and beautiful, the prose relentlessly goads one through a range of emotions as experienced by its Kafkaesque protagonist, a perfectly imperfect anti-hero persecuted by an unworldly force known only as the ‘Space’. Abundant with pithy one-liners and philosophical observation, the narrative moves quickly as Smith clumsily attempts to right a terrible, inadvertent wrong, thus redressing the cosmic balance. It is due to Wiles’ minutely observed characters that we feel empathy with our hapless hero. The storyline is strong, fast-paced and original and, although there is a lot to absorb, with a large helping of dark humour Wiles manages to unravel the plot and keep up the pace. I Am Dead is an incisive and engaging novel well penned by an exciting new voice to the psychological thriller genre. Available in paperback from Troubador or on Kindle, we would certainly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well-crafted and intelligent tale which stays with you long after the the ﬁnal page is turned.

Meet the author: Gareth Wiles

Jason Hicklin – The Canal Etchings 2nd to 31st March Nationally renowned etcher Jason Hicklin will exhibit recent etchings inspired by the canals of Shropshire and the borders of Wales.

Whittington Castle: The Restoration

Good news for all who dwell in the quaint medieval village of Whittington. The Trust is delighted to announce that a £1.5m project to repair and restore Whittington Castle has just been completed with the assistance of a £950,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. The strikingly picturesque and romantic ruins are steeped in much history, tales of bitter border warfare, romance and legend which is why the small rural community in North Shropshire, England has acquired a 99 year lease to manage the castle that sits in the centre of its village. Sue Ellis, manager of the Whittington Castle preservation trust says: ‘We believe ours is the only castle in the UK which is owned and run by a local community. The existing castle is set in about 12 acres of ground and is the remains of a Norman home. We are well-known for holding exciting events throughout the year, with this year being no exception. Come and see on the 8th of April for our annual ‘Easter Egg Hunt’ with crafts, stalls and a clue solving, chocolate charged hunt. On the 8th and 9th April we are visited by medieval re-enactors plus we have ‘Have a Go Archery’ with Gary Scott. And on the 13th – 22nd April we have Wrexham Art Group with their first-ever exhibition.’ For more information visit: www.whittingtoncastle.co.uk

An exhibition by Annelise H Linnemann-Schmidt Winner of Qube Open Art Competition People’s Choice prize 2011. Feeling inspired? Enter this year’s Qube Open Art Competition and you too could win gallery space in 2013, the theme this year is ‘Celebrate’. Download your entry form at www.qube-oca.org. uk or call us on 01691 656 882. Shrewsbury Cartoon Exhibition 11th May to 9th June The theme of this year’s Cartoon Exhibition is ‘Flying’. Qube will be the first stop for this touring exhibition after it’s debut in Shrewsbury. We will be looking to hold creative workshops around the theme of flying during the time of the exhibition. New! Eco Fashion Course – Starts 8 March and runs for five weeks, come and create new clothing accessories such as tote bags, brooches, gloves and hats all from recycled materials. Course starts at 6.30pm to 8.30pm and the cost is £35. Photography Workshop - An Introduction to Digital Photography 10 March - For children aged between 12 years and 16 years old.

Gareth Wiles is a busy chap! In between penning two novels, he also works as a self-employed gardener whilst he completes his MA in English Literary Culture at Glyndwr University in Wrexham and, if that’s not enough, the 26 year old is also the secretary of the Burton and Rossett Horticultural Society. It’s a lot to juggle but, as Gareth explains, ‘I think that the gardening and writing compliment each other. The time spent working in the garden is an opportune period to think up plots and characters.’ I refrain from asking what kind of gardening inspired him to give life to Peter Smith because, well, as literary characters go, he’s not particularly likeable, is he? Gareth replies: ‘I guess the question should be, ‘Is humanity likeable?’ because this is what Smith represents. 10th – 20th March 2012 He exists in the grey area, neither wholly good Prepare yourselves for eleven days of events celebrating the nor wholly bad. I like him as a character but written, spoken and sung words of the world. A stellar line superﬁcially I wouldn’t want to have a pint up of internationally renowned writers, performance with him!’ artists and poets are heading to Oswestry. Headlining We ask Gareth to share advice an exceptional bill this year will be Welsh Poet with other would-be authors. ‘Write Laureate, Gillian Clarke, who will read from her something which pleases you. For work at Oswestry School on Saturday 17th March. a long time I wrote things which I Email: editorial@ Among the best-selling fiction writers is Suzannah thought would get published more yattaryattar.co.uk Dunn, author of the celebrated The Confession of easily but trends change. Also, and answer this Katherine Howard, and screenwriter, novelist and get out there with a blog. Display question: ‘Where was sequel writer of Chitty, Chitty Bang, Bang Flies Again, your work, keep at it and don't be Gareth Wiles born?’ Frank Cottrell Boyce. There are simply far too many deterred by rejection slips!’ First ﬁve entries will events to list here, so for more listings call Booka on Gareth’s sequel, Icon's Request, win! 01691 662244 or visit: www.oswestrylitfest.co.uk. will be released on June 1st, 2012,

Oswestry’s festival of the Word 2012

WIN! WIN! WIN! FIVE FREE COPIES TO GIVE AWAY

published by Troubadour and on Kindle.

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SPRING LAMBING DAY

WALFORD CAMPUS, SUNDAY 11TH MARCH 11.00 am - 4.00 pm BASCHURCH

A Family Fun Day

Here is a taste of what’s on offer... New-born Lambs - you may even see a lamb being born if you are lucky! Come and see our animals, we have over 90 species from Snakes and Chinchillas to Meerkats and Alpacas! We also have a Climbing Wall, Superzorbs, Dog Agility Display, Chicks Hatching, Equine Display, Treasure Hunt, Face Painting, Vintage Machinery and much, much more.

Just £9.00 per car!

for directions, see our website: www.wnsc.ac.uk | Tel: 01939 262 100

be all you can be ...and more Open Day Saturday 28th April 2012

T: 01952 265603 E: admissions@wrekinccollege.com co-educational 11-18 boarding and day school www.wrekincollege.com

Award winning new & used piano stockists

What’s on... What’s on... Fascinating Aida Friday 9 March 7.30pm

TELFORD

Tickets £19.50

Tony Stockwell: Psychic Medium Friday 23 March 7.30pm Tickets £18.50

Vienna Festival Ballet presents Swan Lake Wednesday 18 April 7pm

Tickets £19 Concessions £17.50 Under 14s £12

Time Gentlemen Please! Monday 19 September Time Gentlemen Please!

The Burlesque Show Showrooms in Porthmadog and Chester Tel: 0845 269 3617 pianoscymru.com jonespianosofchester.co.uk

Friday 27 April Monday 19 7.30pm September Tickets £18.50

01952 382382 www.theplacetelford.com 01952 382382 www.theplacetelford.com

to n o o s g n Comi s! n a v a r a Clwyd C A brand new breed of caravan lighter, more compact & more competitive than the others. Here to view... Good Friday 6th, Saturday 7th and Bank Holiday Monday 9th April (Sorry closed Sunday).

Also on display now at Clwyd Caravans... Buccaneer, Elddis, Lunar & Coachman

Clwyd Caravans The Green, Ruabon, Wrexham LL14 6DP.

Tel: 01978 810091

For more details visit our website www.clwydcaravans.com

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Conservatoires

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Page 1

Celebrating 23 years in the Business

A beautiful orangery or quality conservatory is the ideal way to add extra space and value to your home. Our experience designing and installing every style means you’II get the new room of your dreams, on time and on budget. As a leading installer, our experience stretches across the widest range of designs. You may have not seen the orangery or conservatory you are looking for in any brochure yet - but because our range is made to order - it is fair to say you can literally have anything that’s physically possible. We will be delighted to make our knowledge available to help you choose exactly what you are looking for.

Tel. 01691 773993

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Chenery Enterprises Ltd - Company No. 7811251

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Darland Golf USGA specification greens and tees a challenging parkland course.

This beautiful 9-hole 3,054-yard course includes a 524-yard par five, six par fours and two par threes, one over water GREEN FEES

9 HOLES Adults Juniors* Week Days £9.00 Weekends/ £11.00 Bank Holidays

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18 HOLES Adults Juniors*

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CALL 01244 579282 FOR TEE RESERVATIONS Chester Road, Lavister, Rossett LL12 0DF

The home of mountain biking in Wales

With over 40km of graded mountain bike trails, One Planet is designed for anyone who loves mountain biking. We have a large selection of hire bikes to enjoy fantastic trails, a specialist bike shop, and tuition to suit all riders. There are also walking trails throughout the beautiful Llandegla forest, with over 25km of way-marked trails to choose from featuring woodland and sculptures. Plus, experience great food (and the best breakfast in Wales) at our award-winning Oneplanet Adventure Café.

Featuring Bikes from: Orange, Yeti, Ghost, Santa Cruz Commencal, Ibis For further info give the team a call on (01978) 751656 www.oneplanetadventure.com www.coedllandegla.com

White Water Kayaking with ProAdventure From beginner to expert we can give you the skills and qualifications to succeed on the river. Year on year we are teaching more people to kayak and canoe on on the rivers and lakes of Wales. Our team of superb and highly qualified coaches will give you a fantastic time and help you learn all the skills you need. • • • • • • •

Canoeing Kayaking Gorge Walking Climbing & Abseiling Bush Craft & Survival Skills White Water Rafting Biking & Walking

orth Wales and the Borders has something to suit every taste, every pocket and every generation. With castles, stately homes, gardens, family parks, art galleries, craft centres, museums and steam trains to name but a few, the only downside will be not having enough time to enjoy it all! You can potter around charming towns and villages, explore enchanting coves and rugged coastlines, and feel the sand beneath your feet on one of the many blue flag beaches this area has to offer. Then there’s the hundreds of attractions which help make this area one of the best holiday destinations in the UK. Yattar Yattar has compiled a Great Days Out Guide to highlight some of the best attractions so you can make the most of your time in this beautiful place.

Adventure Activities

If you’re in the mood for a little adventure then help is at hand. With stunning landscape being one of North Wales’ best features, visitors to the area will be spoilt for choice. Adventure Activities, a company based in Snowdonia, offers you the chance for a guided climb of Snowdon, the highest mountain in England and Wales, or explore the old underground caverns left by the slate quarrymen, or go canyoning with a wetsuit and swim, slide and jump down waterfalls! Try mountain biking on some of the most breath-taking routes in the country. Or try your hand at rock climbing before going back for a hot shower in their five-star barn conversion followed by a night in the village pub – perfect! Visit: www. outdooradventureactivities.com

www.proadventure.co.uk

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GREAT DAYS OUT

Great Days Out in

2012!

When it comes to having yourselves A Great Day Out, there can be no better place than North Wales and its picturesque borderlands. We’ve visited some of the best places to go this spring…

Ride brilliant trails in North Wales, with adventure specialists as your guide

And what about a good old fashioned bike ride? No holiday is complete without one of these and at One Planet Adventure, situated in the majestic Llandegla Forest all your cycling dreams become a reality. With over 44 km of purpose-built mountain bike trails, people travel from all over the country to ride here. Advanced riders can sign up for a specialist course, or if it's a family trek you’re after then courses like the Family Skills Day or Guided Rides are for you – or you can just turn up and enjoy the great car-free trails in a fantastic woodland setting. And their bacon butties have actually won awards! Bike hire is available too, but make sure you get in touch first. Visit: www. oneplanetadventure.com

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And in Denbighshire you’ll find the Open Door Adventure centre. Visitors to this centre can opt for the accommodation package too which not only enables you to enjoy the many outdoor pursuits on offer but also Dolben Hall; a ten-bed mansion hall with excellent facilities. Owner David says: ‘We have our own natural limestone crag and caves, the centre also provide: full board accommodation, all rooms are spacious and well equipped. Our resident chef provides good wholesome food – the perfect end to the perfect adventure – and all equipment is provided for all activities for the duration of your stay.’ Visit: www.opendooradventure.co.uk

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GREAT DAYS OUT Go Underground

Llechwedd Slate Caverns of Blaenau Ffestiniog is part of a living, working slate mine, active since 1836. Michael Bewick says: ‘We have two spectacular underground tours to explore the underground world of the Victorian Slate Miner. We take you deep inside the Welsh mountains, but the temperature in the mine is about 54F throughout the year, making the caverns ideal for your family day out come rain or shine. We also have a slate workshop, visitors can witness slate craft techniques that have barely changed since the 1800s.’ The cavern’s greatest appeal however has got to be its sheer beauty, with glistening underground lakes and breathtaking rock formations. Visit: www.llechwedd-slate-caverns.co.uk

All kinds of adventures

Ty Nant Outdoors is newly set up but is run by a chap well experienced in outdoor adventure activities. Andy Turton has a degree in Sport Science to back up his 25 years of kayaking experience across six continents and unsurprisingly this is where Andy is most at home… on the water, kayaking or canoeing. Andy’s drive and enthusiasm are highly infectious: ‘Ty Nant Outdoors isn’t just your average outdoor adventure company. We are a source of fun and adventure, with a great hands-on, honest approach. By bringing together an eclectic mix of North Wales’s best coaches instructors and providers, Ty Nant Outdoors provides top coaching, awards and qualiﬁcations along with a whole load of great taster activities.’ With more than just the usual outdoor pursuits on offer, Ty Nant also offers visitors the chance to get stuck into gorge walking, high ropes, paintballing, quad biking, wilderness and survival skills plus stag and hen adventure weekends. Ty Nant even runs adventure holiday centres abroad! Visit: www.tynantoutdoors.co.uk

White water rafting

North Wales is blessed with some of the most beautiful waters in the UK. Whether it be water skiing in Anglesey, mackerel fishing in Colwyn bay or sailing in Llandudno, North Wales has your water sporting needs covered. Head up the tributaries and onto one of the famous rivers and you’ll find North Wales has come up trumps yet again. The National White Water Centre is set in the beautifully unspoilt environment of the Snowdonia National Park, and the magnificent Tryweryn River boasts some of the best natural rapids in the UK, and because the river is dam released, fantastic white water rapids are guaranteed all year round! The centre has been awarded Olympic Training Venue status, and so throughout the early season there is opportunity to talent spot and cheer on hopefuls for the big event in the summer. There are some fantastic events coming up this season, the first being the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile on Sunday the 25th March. There will be all sorts of races on and off the water so book your place now at www.sportrelief.com. This is shortly followed by the return of the Annual Easter Egg Hunt – pepare your crew for some extreme Easter egg hunting with exhilarating white water, problem solving, secret messages to decipher and scrumptious eggs to find – the ultimate family rafting experience! Visit: www.ukrafting.co.uk

Anglesey on Horseback

Anglesey Riding Centre is the perfect accompaniment to a holiday horse ride. The centre enables lucky horse riding enthusiasts to experience not only beautiful countryside hacks but sand and sea too! It’s everyone’s dream, so why wait any longer to realise it? John Knock, owner at Anglesey Riding Centre says: ‘Our ﬁve miles of private bridleways will give you a fantastic, safe introduction to riding, and we’re sure that more experienced riders will ﬁnd plenty here to challenge them too. We cater for all abilities, from the complete beginners to those who’ve been at it for years. We also have our indoor riding school, which is the perfect environment to hone your skills and get you ready to tackle whatever challenge you set your sights on, whatever the weather.’ Visit: www.angleseyridingcentre.co.uk

By Sea

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Based in North Wales, Plas Menai National Watersports Centre, offers a wealth of aquatic adventures. Describing the Centre, Sam Sheather explains: ‘Plas Menai enjoys a magnificent location on the Menai Strait, overlooking Anglesey in North Wales. The waters of the Strait are ideal for sailing, windsurfing, canoeing and powerboating, with easy access to the open sea and superb coastal scenery. Snowdonia National Park is only a stone’s throw away and provides canoeists and mountaineers with access to mountains, crags, rivers and lakes. Visitors can opt for one of our many highly acclaimed courses such as our Learn to Sail, Start Windsurfing or even a sea kayak expedition to the Outer Hebrides to name but a few. If you’ve still got some energy left at the end of the day’s activities, there’s plenty to see and do in the evening – visit the historic walled town of Caernarfon with its fantastic castle, take a drive around Snowdonia or discover the unspoilt island of Anglesey. There’s also a good selection of nightlife, with pubs and restaurants close by in Bangor and Caernarfon.’ Visit: www.plasmenai.co.uk

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By River

Welsh Mountain Zoo

Fancy a walk on the wildside? Why not pay a visit to the Welsh Mountain Zoo based in the beautiful mountains above Colwyn Bay. This conservation zoo has breathtaking scenery and beautiful gardens where you can spend a lovely day learning about many rare and endangered species from Britain and around the world including snow leopards, chimpanzees, red pandas and sumatran tigers.

Anglesey Sea Zoo

Fancy a trip beneath the waves? Anglesey Sea Zoo attracts the masses during the holiday season because visitors have a great time learning about the local sealife. Experience incredible invertebrates in the No Bone Zone, and see conservation in action at the lobster hatchery and the seahorse nursery. With over 150 species, all from around our coasts, Anglesey Sea Zoo says: ‘visitors will have a splashing time come rain or shine!’

Chester Zoo and Knowsley Safari Park

This zoo has been voted the number one zoo in the UK. A spokesperson for the zoo says: ‘Also, being one of the top 15 zoos in the world is no mean feat – it’s something Chester Zoo has achieved through innovation and respect for our animals and supporters alike.’ A visit here is well worth your time. Also, you could take time to visit Knowsley Safari Park, and for the chance to see exotic animals roaming free it’s worth the extra milage. Bursting to life with lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, rhinos, baboons, meerkats and more. Knowsley is a wildlife reserve roaring with fun.

Up the road on the banks of the River Dee in Chester you’ll ﬁnd Chester Boats. They specialise in the age old art of river cruising and offer visitors the unique opportunity to see town and country from the watery side of the river bank! Owner Raquel Clarke says: ‘Cruise along the beautiful river Dee aboard one of our luxury showboats; Lady Diana or Mark Twain. From the moment you and your guests are welcomed aboard by our friendly staff to the moment you leave, we guarantee a smoothly organised event to remember.’ Cruises are available all year round from half hour daily cruises to special evening functions. Visit: www.chesterboat.co.uk

By Canal

For a water themed day out with a difference – at a UNESCO World Heritage site no less – make your way to Llangollen and sample a horse-drawn canal boat ride. The ‘Horse drawn boats of Llangollen’ are one of the oldest visitor attractions in North Wales. Started in 1884 by Captain Jones, using his pension from White Star line of ‘Titanic’ fame, he purchased two wooden lifeboats from Liverpool docks, a couple of horses and an old storage barn by the canal, and so started one of the earliest attractions of its kind. Llangollen Wharf is now operated by the Furniss family, and Steve and Steph Furniss are the second generation of the family to be involved. Steve Furniss says: ‘We feel very privileged to be part of the wharf’s history, and part of the oldest horse-drawn passenger boat company operating in the UK and probably the world! The horses are great animals to work with too and they all have their own individual characters.’ For your chance to sit merrily upon a painted barge while being pulled along the enchanting countryside by a heavy horse visit: www.horsedrawnboats.co.uk

Animal Encounters at Pili Palas

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For a little more animal adventure there is a plethora of wildlife parks and zoos in North Wales and beyond (see above). At Pili Palas Nature World you’ll see magical butterflies, birds, snakes, lizards, spiders, pets and meerkats to name but a few. Are you brave enough to stroke a tarantula; handle a giant hissing cockroach; pet a python or would you rather just cuddle some of their more fluffy inhabitants? Owner Steve Bull says: ‘After you’ve seen all the animals there’s plenty of opportunity for the kids to let off steam. There’s a soft-play area for toddlers, a giant bouncy castle, an exciting play-barn, an adventure playground and the play castle. Relax in our café, which serves delicious homemade food. If you’re lucky you may even get a table by the window where you can watch (or be watched by!) our meerkats in their brand new enclosure.’ If the weather’s good, why not bring a picnic to enjoy in the park? With a shop that specialises in gifts for bug-loving kids and plenty of pocket-money priced souvenirs, you’ll find the ideal thing to take home with you to remind you of a fabulous day out. Visit www.pilipalas.co.uk or call on 01248 712474.

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Get Wet special offer

Established in 2007, Get Wet Adventure Company is continuing to build on the range of activities it offers everyone. Manager, Jon Smith says: ‘Getting wet isn’t compulsory, why not try swinging around in our high ropes course – the highest continuous commercially operated course in the UK! Negotiate your way through the tree-based obstacles with your friends and family, you’ll be amazed at how much of the course you will take in your stride. If you have a grudge to settle or just enjoy playing soldier why not to Yattar Yattar come and have some fun in our paintball sites? If you do want Readers! 50% off to ‘get wet’ why not try some gorge walking or raft building? High Ropes and Our raft building takes place on a private stretch of the River Paintballing – only Dee, and you need to make a strong raft so that you can make at GET WET! it down the river to our take out point. If swimming through pools and jumping off rocks is your idea of a good time then it’s deﬁnitely the gorge for you! Watch the website for news of our new rafting trips on the River Dee which will start in 2012.’ Go online to www.get-wet.co.uk

EXCLUSIVE!

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T&C’s Offer ends the ﬁrst week of the summer holidays. Minimum booking of 2 people, max of 4 per voucher (all children must be accompanied by an adult max ration of 1 adult to 3 children). Voucher is only valid for bookings on weekends between now and the ﬁrst week of summer holidays. Vouchers must be presented to Get Wet on the day of the booking or booking will be null and void. Bookings must be made online using promotional code ‘Yattar’. 1 voucher valid for 1 activity unless both activities are booked for the same day in which case 50% will be deducted from the entire day’s activities. Vouchers do not cover extra paintballs. All other Get Wet Terms and Conditions apply as per website.

Adventure Parks

Kayaking Pro’s

Pro Adventure is situated on the banks of the river Dee, within walking distance of amazing climbs, awesome biking routes and great wild countryside. The unique location gives access to so many activities close by, and Pro Adventure’s instructors are all highly qualiﬁed and experienced, which helps give you a truly awesome adventure. Peter Carol at Pro Adventure says: ‘From beginner to expert we can give you the skills and qualiﬁcations to succeed on the river. Year on year we are teaching more people to kayak and canoe on the rivers and lakes of Wales. Our team of superb coaches will give you a fantastic time and help you learn all the skills you need. To quote a customer of ours: ‘I did a course with you three years ago, I had never been in a kayak before in my life! From that weekend onwards I have never looked back. I have been out in a kayak nearly every weekend since and loved every minute of it!’

Pay a visit to GreenWood Forest Park, one of North Wales’ premier theme parks. Set in 17 magical acres of beautiful Gwynedd countryside, visitors can enjoy the scenery, and enjoy forest family fun. Jump aboard the world’s only people-powered roller coaster, zoom down the longest sledge run in Wales, embark on a jungle boat adventure or discover the big, bouncy Giant Jumper. And from June 2012, head inside the new Enchanted Wood Barn for a world of indoor play. In the Green Oak Café, choose from delicious hot and cold meals, as well as a great selection of Fairtrade and Red Tractor marked products. Don’t miss their Easter Eggstravaganza from 31st March - 15th April. Keep a look out for GreenWood’s giant bunnies Harley and Heulwen whilst they help you on the Easter Egg Hunt on 7th and 8th. Watch live shows at the Forest Theatre throughout the break and enjoy events including a visit from North Wales’ Bird Trust who will be bringing along their wise owls on 3rd and 11th. Whatever the event, there’s always a new adventure at GreenWood. For times and dates of all events visit www.greenwoodforestpark.co.uk. Glasfryn Activity Parc is an adventure park based on the Llyn Peninsula which offers visitors just about everything one could want for a fabulous holiday or adventure day out. Activities include go karting, cable wake-boarding, quad bikes, archery, course-ﬁshing, ten-pin bowling, a children’s play area, a farm shop and cafe! If that’s not enough, Glasfryn also offers farmhouse accommodation and camping. Go to www.glasfryn.co.uk

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GREAT DAYS OUT

Great Days Out in

2012!

When it comes to having yourselves A Great Day Out, there can be no better place than North Wales and its picturesque borderlands. We’ve visited some of the best places to go this spring…

Ride brilliant trails in North Wales, with adventure specialists as your guide

▲

And in Denbighshire you’ll ﬁnd the Open Door Adventure centre. Visitors to this centre can opt for the accommodation package too which not only enables you to enjoy the many outdoor pursuits on offer but also Dolben Hall; a ten-bed mansion hall with excellent facilities. Owner David says: ‘We have our own natural limestone crag and caves, the centre also provide: full board accommodation, all rooms are spacious and well equipped. Our resident chef provides good wholesome food – the perfect end to the perfect adventure – and all equipment is provided for all activities for the duration of your stay.’ Visit: www.opendooradventure.co.uk

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GREAT DAYS OUT Go Underground

All kinds of adventures

White water rafting

Anglesey on Horseback

By Sea

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Plas Menai Ads 3:Yatter Yatter 11/01/2012 15:50 Page 1

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Residential and Non-residential options

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By River

Welsh Mountain Zoo

Anglesey Sea Zoo

Chester Zoo and Knowsley Safari Park

By Canal

Animal Encounters at Pili Palas

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open door

to the outside world...

We have been busy building our new Kota Hut, and Hot Tub for our very own wilderness experience in the forest within our 25acres of grounds. The Kota Hut and Its origins are from Scandinavia and part of its design was for free Life to experience true nature in the forests and by lakes where families & Friends could enjoy and relax and see nature at its best. To recharge and energise our batteries and to spend quality time with those most dear to you your family and friends. Away from the everyday chores of work and life. It sounds idyllic! And yes it is, The Kota Hut will sleep seven and the wilderness tent sleeps Eight so groups of up to15 will be able to use the facility. If you would like to know more or would like to book this getaway from it all experience, please do call or email.

H ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES IN NORT

WALES

CANYONING • UNDERGROUND EXPLORATION MOUNTAIN WALKING • MOUNTAIN BIKING ROCK CLIMBING/ABSEILING • CANOEING Adventure Activities for Individuals, Groups, Families & Companies.

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Open Door Training, Dolben Hall, Bont Newydd, St Asaph, Denbighshire LL17 0HN

outdooradventureactivities.com Tel: 01341 241275

There are venues for the expert through to the novice, against a backdrop of beautiful beaches, a rugged coastline and the mountainous Snowdonia National Park. North Wales Watersports Ltd is an organisation, set up under the auspices of the British Marine Federation, to support all the members of the watersports industry - commercial, public and voluntary - in the Objective 1 areas of North Wales. Ysgol y Môr is designed for school children between the ages of 8 and 14 years. Every element of the programme aims to link with and enhance the national education curriculum. The programme offers something for every school child, regardless of background and abilities. It is also flexible enough to ensure that a school can adopt any element of Ysgol y Môr, in a format which works for the school.

North Wales is a natural paradise for:•Sailing •Power-boating •Canoeing, fishing •Jet-skiing North Wales Watersports Limited Port Dinorwic Marina, Port Dinorwic Y Felinheli, Gwynedd LL56 4JN

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•Diving •Windsurfing •All types of water-based activity

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It’s a Great Day Out!

PI LI PALAS M Men enai ai Br Brid idge ge,, An Angle glese seyy

We are open all year!

Lots to see and do at Anglesey’s Top Family Attraction!

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Set alongside the beautiful Menai Straits with stunning views of Cearnarfon Castle and the Snowdonia mountain range beyond, you won’t ﬁnd horse riding in more involving surroundings.

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Indoor School Lessons with experienced instructors 5 miles of private bridleways Complete beginners welcome Short taster rides for younger children Faster beach rides available for experienced riders

Booking essential, minimum age 4yrs, weight limit applies. Tal-y-foel, Dwyran, Anglesey LL61 6LQ Tel: (01248) 430377 Email: angleseyriding@gmail.com

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www.angleseyriding.co.uk

01248 712 474 • www.pilipalas.co.uk

Welcome to Denbighshire Travel Incorporating Broadway Travel and Claughton Cruise Centre We are one of the oldest established independent travel companies in the UK having been established over 75 years ago. Unlike many of the major ‘multiples’ We offer a guarantee of unbiased travel advice and also a wealth of experience gained over many years. Our friendly team have travelled far and wide and take pride and pleasure in sharing their knowledge and experience with our clients. We deal with all the major scheduled, low cost and charter airlines and hotel groups, with thousands of flights and hotels that can be booked online. Whether you want to book a flight, a hotel or an inclusive holiday you can choose from many of the online options and enjoy the discounts and online benefits which we are proud to offer. If you would prefer to speak to us directly or have any particular requirements that the website does not offer then simply contact us and we will respond within 24 hours.We are fully bonded members of ABTA and a fully accredited IATA agent

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Get Wet special offer

EXCLUSIVE!

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Adventure Parks

Kayaking Pro’s

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FARM TO TABLE

The

d Life

There can be no denying it; North Wales and the Borders has always been a powerhouse of food production; we dine on the most succulent of meats and the freshest of vegetables. So we took a trip to Bodafon Farm Park in Llandudno to ﬁnd out about life on the farm and how great food ends up in our local shops. BY CARRIE TOPHAM If we must eat, then why not eat well? It can be said that when out doing our weekly shop we forget about what goes on behind the scenes. We just stand there in wonderment and say: ‘£3.99 for a whole chicken? Or shall we have the leg of lamb for £6.97? Actually, that silverside looks rather tasty but then there’s the duck, pork, venison, whole salmon or Guinea fowl – decisions, decisions!’ Decisions indeed; we don’t realise how lucky we are to live like kings in this present day. Mark Roberts, owner and head farmer at Bodafon Farm Park says: ‘The demand for meat is on the increase, the standard of living has risen greatly and everyone expects to have the best quality produce at the lowest price. Nothing wrong with

that now but fast-forward twenty years and I think we’ll be finding that this won’t be the case. I can’t see the current trend in farming being a profitable, sustainable and economical method in the future. With more people will come a greater demand, we will see less livestock farming and in its place will come more arable farming (cereals and wheat) to satisfy the demand for the basic food stuffs.’ It can be suggested that we are living on the edge of plenty – enjoy it while it lasts some might say, or is there a better way? Mark says: ‘It really stems from population control (or the lack of it) with an estimated 9.5 billion people on the planet by 2050, food will become much more of a necessity for survival rather than a luxurious daily banquet. Developing countries race to become as wealthy as the western world, meanwhile we seem to be going backwards! The price of meat is rising at the farmer’s markets and livestock auctions (which is good news for us at the moment) however our outgoings are fast becoming much greater than our income due to a rise in overheads. I also foresee genetically modified (GM) produce dominating the consumer market in the next few decades – purely because we have no choice in the matter. GM food insures maximum output for minimum input and therefore uses less resources to produce.’

A better way for all From talking with Mark I realised that the ‘good life’ could soon be a thing of the past. What can we do to ensure the sustainable production of good food for the generations to come? The answer is simple – buy local. Either people aren’t aware of this fact or more aptly, they don’t want to be inconvenienced. The supermarkets are well aware of our love for convenience; they give us the opportunity to buy everything we need in one easy to reach place at slashed down prices. Yes, the convenience of the supermarket is something we all take advantage of and yes it is the cheapest solution – but for how long and at what cost? Mark says: ‘The fresh produce you buy in the supermarket isn’t a patch on what your

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Be a farme

r for a day!

‘From pork pies to home-made cakes and jams, we pride ourselves in our ability to nurture the old ways,’ says Lewis’s Farm Shop

‘Even the fresh produce in a supermarket isn’t a patch on what your local butcher or greengrocer can offer you’ it is so pumped with water and additives it barely tastes like it’s meant to once in the mouth. We all know we like to eat local and we like to eat fresh – it just costs a bit more and takes a little more effort to attain.’

The good news The good news is that we can prevent the less than desirable food of the future; we can ensure the production of ‘the good life’ if we all recognise that change is needed and needed soon. We need to stop using the big-budget supermarkets and return to a localised way of life. Mark says: ‘Not so long ago food miles were at an all-time low – each village, town and city had its own butcher, baker and grocery shop. The community supported one another and everyone knew where their produce came from. Since then convenience shopping has become all too convenient – we hit the bigbudget supermarkets in our thousands because everything we desire is in one easy to reach spot. To get ourselves out of this economical crisis we must

make a little more effort to support our local communities. We can be happy in the knowledge that we’re getting top quality local produce and everyone will be the better for it. If we carry on as we are, there will be no community shops. The supermarkets will have no competition and as a result prices will rocket, the consumer will be left with a less than satisfactory product for the same price as the best around today – it’s very much worth thinking about, isn’t it?’ To be honest, I use the butcher when I can (fresh and local is undoubtedly the best) and carry out my weekly shop at the supermarket. It’s what we do isn’t it? If I make the conscious effort to use my local shops more, I'll be eating much better food for more or less the same price (my butcher usually knocks off a few pennies if I buy meat for the whole week) and I’ll be content in the knowledge that my money has gone straight back into the community that I live in. Buy fresh, seasonal, local produce and very soon we’ll all be feeling the beneﬁts. Visit Bodafon Farm Park! Not only is Bodafon a traditional working farm, it’s also open to the public. Ride the land train around the grounds and see ponies, highland cattle, goats, deer, llamas, pigs and birds of prey from around the world! Visit: www. bodafonfarmpark.com

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local butcher or greengrocer can offer you; chances are it has done thousands of miles to reach you in a less than perfect state and more often than not meats and poultry are packed full of additives and water.’ Buying local means less food miles, for a greener more eco-friendly product. Plus, all proﬁts made from sales will stay in this country, helping to allay the economic woes the UK is suffering at present. Mark continues: ‘Your butcher, greengrocer and baker will know the origin of all their products (most butchers will know the famers personally and will visit the animals on their green pastures often only a few miles up the road.) Customers can be assured that the animals have had a happy life. Packaging too is far more intimate – I remember my nanny bringing home fresh pork chops each week from the local butcher, lovingly wrapped in a brown paper bag; a tradition that hasn’t changed in our family for generations – for me, it doesn’t get much better than this. It’s real and healthy; the clever marketing used in the supermarkets is crass and wasteful. The huge, juicy looking steak in the plastic box becomes an over-whelming disappointment once fried in a little oil. Often

Here’s a fant astic way fo r you to experience what life is really like on modern da a iry farm. Gor stage Green in the heart Farm of Cheshire offers peop chance to le the experience a day in the a young da life of iry farmer, ru nning a onebusiness of man 90 milking co ws! Your da could includ y e anything from milkin cows, feed g the ing the baby calves, trim the cow’s fe ming et or mucki ng-out the A full day w bu ll! ill include lu nch at the lo pub down th cal e road and everyone w get a bottle ill of local fruit juice and so farmhouse me churned Che shire butter home. Prices to take start at £95, participant be 16 years s must and over. Fo r your chan experience ce to this unique diary farm have a real and ‘day on the farm’, visit: farmer4ada www. y.co.uk Gorstage G reen Farm re cently appeared on the Jeremy Kyle Show, and has ha d national pr ess covera The Guardia ge in n, Observe r an d Independ newspaper ent s. They also gained a ‘H Commende ighly d’ award in the recent Cheshire A wards for To urism Skills ‘Best New En as trant’.

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FARM TO TABLE

Your Local Farm Shops Lewis’s Farm shop: winner of ‘Best Sausage’ at the Wrexham Sausage Championships for the last three years

LOCAL NORTH WALES

● Dolgellau Farmer’s Market When: 3rd Sunday of each month Where: Eldon Square in the town centre, starts at 10am ● Mark Lewis’s Farm Shop When: Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm and Sunday from 11am to 4pm Where: Eyton, Wrexham ● Hootons Farm Shop When: Daily 10am to 5.30pm Where: Brynsiencyn, Anglesey ● Rhug Organic Farm Shop When: Monday to Thursday, 8am until 5pm, Friday and Saturday 8am until 5:30pm, Sunday: 8.30am until 5pm Where: Rhug estate, Corwen ● Mold Farmers’ Market When: 1st Saturday and 3rd Saturday of the month, 9am - 2pm Where: The Church Hall, Mold

LOCAL SHROPSHIRE

● Battlefield Farm Shop When: Monday to Saturday, 9:30 - 5:30pm, Sunday, 10 - 4pm Where: Upper Battlefield, Shrewsbury ● Ludlow Food Centre When: Mon, Tues, Wed and Sat, 9 - 5:30, Thurs - Fri 9 - 6:30, Sun 10:30 - 4:30 Where: Bromfield, Shropshire ● Strefford Hall Farm Shop When: Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 9 – 5pm Where: Craven Arms, Shropshire

LOCAL CHESHIRE

● The Hollies Farm Shops When: Monday – Saturday 8.30am – 7pm, Sunday 8.30am – 6pm Where: Little Budworth and Lower Stretton, Cheshire ● Davenports Florists and Farm Shop When: Mon 10am – 4pm, Wed - Fri 10am 6pm, Sat 9am – 5pm, Sun 10am – 4pm Where: Warrington Road, Northwich ● The Manor Farm Shop and Café When: Monday to Friday 8am - 6pm, Saturday 8am - 5pm, and Sunday 10am - 4pm. Where: Tattenhall, Cheshire

LOCAL MID WALES

● The Derwen Garden Centre and Farm Shop When: Mon - Sat 9.30 to 5pm, Sun 11.00 to 5pm Where: Guilsﬁeld, Powys ● New Inn Farm Shop When: Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm, Sat 8am - 2pm Where: Newbridgeon-Wye, Llandrindod Wells

‘Buying local means less food miles and is greener and more eco-friendly’

What the experts say Jody Scrutton at Llandudno Smokery says: ‘Having a passion for producing great tasting products and sourcing the best quality seafood and game from around North Wales and the UK is a challenge I enjoy. Having received UK awards for our smoked foods is really just the tip of the iceberg for this business. If you happen to be in Llandudno, why not pop in for a look and if you need ideas on recipes just ask for me, and I’ll be more than willing to help.’ He continues: ‘Also available are an array of fresh fish locally sourced. Through the warmer months we do carry good stocks of wild seabass, grey mullet, plaice, mackerel, lemon sole, dover soles, monkfish and turbot. We also stock locally sourced mussels from the Conwy Estuary and the Menai Straits of Anglesey. On request we can also source local lobsters, crabs and shrimps. Throughout the year we stock an array of game from pheasants, partridge, pigeons, grouse, quail, venison and wild boar to more exotic game meats.’ Visit: www.thesmokery.co.uk Mark Lewis, proprietor and head butcher at Lewis’s Farm Shop says: ‘As a fourth generation farmer I have been brought up to understand and appreciate the importance of good, local produce. We rear all our animals and sell the fruits of our labour in our award-winning farm shop. From pork pies to home-made cakes and jams, we pride ourselves in our ability to nurture the old ways and as a result provide the very best beef, lamb and pork for our customers.’ Lewis’s farm shop started by selling half lambs out of the backdoor over 12 years ago and since then very little has changed. Mark continues: ‘Our standards are high and we’ve won the award for ‘Best Sausage’ at the Wrexham Sauasage Championships for the last three years running! Please pop in and see us; you can learn about the processes of a traditional working farm and sample some fine produce in the process. I hope Lewis’s farm shop will be here for many years to come and I sincerely hope that the old ways still have a home in the future of food production – if we lose our traditional farming methods and love for good produce, we will lose our heritage.’ y Visit: www.lewisfarmshop.co.uk

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LLAndudno

Sm oAk ery

Llandudno Smokery provides a wholesale and retail service for fresh fish, shellfish, game and poultry throughout North Wales. We also produce a unique range of quality SMOAKED foods (all smoked over Welsh oak), which can be delivered to any destination in the country.

REFRESHINGLY DIFFERENT! A family owned supermarket & petrol station supporting local businesses!

25 years of experience has taught us how to source the freshest and best quality products for supply to our extensive customer list, which includes many of the best hotels and restaurants in the region.

SUPER PRICES! SUPER SERVICE!

Stans of Llangollen, Berwyn Street, Llangollen 01978 862 861 Mon – Sun 7am – 10pm www.stans.biz

Quality smoked foods, fish, shellfish, poultry and game Wholesale and retail

Our retail shop in Llandudno has an extensive and diverse fresh fish and smoked foods display; come to see for yourself the difference between an experienced specialist supplier and a supermarket T (01492) 870430 F (01492) 870327 E info@llandudnosmokery.co.uk W thesmokery.co.uk

Llandudno Smokery Builder Street West Llandudno, Conwy LL30 1HH

Shropshire’s experts in Bespoke timber frame buildings... Our Bespoke service means that YOU always get what you want whether that be a garden room, orangery, garaging, extension, home office or studio, complete house or simply an oak truss. THE FRAMING BARN, LITTLE WORTH FARM, LITTLE WENLOCK, SHROPSHIRE, TF6 5AX. tel: 01952 502453 mobile: 07913 717777 www.severnoaktimberframes.co.uk

IOLO WILLIAMS

Behind the scenes...

with Iolo Williams Many of us dream about doing it, most of us marvel at their work, but very few of us get to live the dream; what am I talking about? The wonderful world of wildlife presenting of course! But how does one go about getting such a job? I spoke to BBC wildlife legend Iolo Williams to ﬁnd out more… BY CAZZ JONES

met with Iolo back in December on what can only be described as one of the windiest days of the year! Our destination: constitution hill, Aberystwyth, and our mission was to reach the summit and spot some wildlife! Once the introductions were over and the binoculars were braced in anticipation we began our ascent up Consti hill. In between bated breaths I discovered that Iolo and I had lived similar lives; well in the beginning at least – Iolo had also spent his childhood years in Powys and the surrounding areas, we had both attended Llanfyllin High School and had both been hugely interested in the wildlife and countryside around us and not (to the dismay of our poor teachers) in our school books! Iolo says: ‘I was never one for school – I wanted to be out there in the real world! I unashamedly used to bunk-off from my lessons and get as far into the wilderness as I could. I would dig for slow worms, wait for badgers to appear from their sets and I made it

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Iolo explains why he took the decision to become a wildlife presenter

my mission to identify and mimic the calls of every bird in the British Isles! If that isn’t education, I don’t know what is!’ Iolo’s passion for life found him in the Big Smoke (London) where he attained a degree in Ecology. ‘I really loved my time at university; never a truer saying – uni days are the best days of your life.’ Iolo spent the next 14 years of his life at the RSPB and he describes them as: ‘some of the happiest days of my life! I wasn’t earning much money, it was a humble existence but it was all in aid of a good cause. Protecting endangered species from extinction was part of my daily routine. In my lifetime I’ve been lucky enough to witness species return from the brink; a special case being the red kite which went from only a few remaining breeding pairs to its current numbers reaching well into the thousands! Nothing makes me more proud except of course my children.’

And then the call came…

course!) Surprisingly, Iolo admitted he had been more inclined to decline the offer from the BBC than to accept it. He didn’t want the fame, he didn’t want the fortune, he’d much prefer the hassle-free existence he had become accustomed to – the mark of a true hero and wildlife enthusiast if you ask me! Iolo says: ‘After much debate and a few beers with Ceri (my lovely wife), I came to this conclusion: more important than what I want is the importance of highlighting the issues that face wildlife and habitat the world over, especially in today’s climate. Let’s face it – it wasn’t going to be all bad; travelling the world and getting paid to do my hobby is bound to have its perks!’ So, what skills are needed to make it in such a competitive industry? Iolo explains: ‘Presenting, in particular wildlife presenting, is a combination of knowledge, dedication and hard work – you need to be skilled in an appropriate discipline ﬁrst. If you think you can graduate with a degree in performing arts and expect to report on the bio-diversity of the Great Barrier Reef then (in most cases) you’re going to experience a reality check. You need to

understand why you would want to do it in the ﬁrst place (presumably to help protect and conserve the world of wildlife) and choose a career path that will get you real experience within a wildlife organisation or charity. If, at that stage, the BBC come a-knocking, you’ll be knowledgeable, experienced – and probably too involved in your own projects to even consider the offer (I said probably!) but most importantly – never give up and that goes for everything in life.’

Filming on location Iolo continues: ‘The realities of wildlife ﬁlming are nowhere near as exciting as people think – we don’t just pull up on the plains of the Serengeti in a stretch limo and stumble across a deadly battle between ten lions, one elephant and two crocodiles! We arrive cold, sleep deprived and mosquito ridden, often in some dive of a place, and we

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But, as we all know, he didn’t stay there: ‘I got a call from the producers at BBC Wales who asked me if I would like to present Visions of Snowdonia which followed the lives of six people living and working on the slopes of the country’s highest mountain. I was asked because I knew… I had become an expert in my ﬁeld! I had no formal media training (which admittedly worried me quite a bit) but I did have the in-depth knowledge.’ We had now reached the peak of Constitution Hill (without being blown off

‘I just felt it was important to highlight these issues’

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wait… we wait some more… and eventually we go home having seen none of what we came to film in the first place! More often than not time, money and supplies run out and we have no choice. Sure, big budget productions like Life on the BBC get the footage they went for and our lives are all the better for it, but with smaller budget films (like the ones I work on) we have a schedule and we have to stick to it no matter what.’ ‘For example, I recently flew to Spain in search of wolves. We had done all of our research (which needs to be spot on, no room for error) and we had just three days to find and film them. An easy task you might think – just follow the howls! But nothing, we just couldn’t find them, which is when you need to think on your feet. We trekked off into the woods and found nests, snakes and a whole host of wildlife in which to make a fantastic film from and then you’ll never guess what happened… two and a half days into the shoot I went up on the mountain pass, just to have one last look for these illusive beasts and to my utter dismay, trotting down the path came a lynx!’

Pointing out where you can spot dolphins off the coast near Aberystwyth

to reach for my phone. As fate would have it, a car drove past on a dirt track the other side of the valley and the lynx scarpered into a bush! I phoned the boys, who legged it up to me and we captured some amazing footage of the lynx skulking out of the bush (which naturally, I had to walk into first so as to coax him out) all in a day’s work so I thought! Alas… no wolves, the lynx had made it all worthwhile, but not filming the wolf pack was a big disappointment to me as they are one of my favourite animals.’ Is it a large team you work with? ‘No, not really – we like to keep it small with just a director, cameraman, sound operator and myself – I prefer it that way as we’re more mobile – just one Jeep and everybody knows what they’re doing at any given moment, which is vital when filming wildlife. We’ve had some amazing times together, for example, I was in the Azores in September and I dived with a mother and calf sperm whale. It was an incredible experience – I got within five metres of the calf and I couldn’t get over how gentle and majestic they appeared. Outstanding it was! The next day (as if the sperm whale sightings hadn’t been exciting enough) I was back in the deep blue, diving with mako and blue sharks and then, to top it all off, in the afternoon I got to dive with five gigantic manta rays! I was awe-struck, it was like having a five-metre bird of prey flying over me, eclipsing the sun

‘I was in the deep blue sea, diving with mako and blue sharks and then, to top it all off, in the afternoon I got to dive with five gigantic manta rays!’

Lynx encounter ‘Now I knew lynx could be found in Spain, but we hadn’t dared include them in the shooting schedule as the hope of seeing them on our travels was minute – but there he was, golden like the sun and looking right at me! Panic stricken, because I had no idea how to get the boys up here to capture this amazing encounter, I stood there, dead in my tracks and started

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as he passed – I’m a very lucky guy I thought to myself that day.’ And lastly, with our growing numbers, is there anything we can do to help? ‘Everybody can do something; plant your own food, buy local, organic produce and recycle every last little thing. That’s probably the most important thing – either re-use bottles, clothes, jars and packaging in your own home or take it to a recycling centre, please don’t needlessly throw precious resources away.’

Time to make a difference ‘You can leave food and bedding materials (like little sticks and mosses etc) out for the wildlife (mice, insects, hedgehogs, squirrels, birds and slugs etc) ensuring their reproduction and existence. And try growing your own veg. It’s so easy, yet so important and more to the point it tastes better and costs less. We can all do our bit, pressure needs to be exerted on the government because, let me tell you now, they’re not going to do it for you and they don’t give two hoots about your future or that of the amazing wildlife on our planet, which by rights was here ﬁrst.’ ‘It’s been a pleasure to meet you all,’ says Iolo. What a thoroughly nice man! y

Photography by Eminent Photography - www.eminentphotography.com

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IOLO WILLIAMS

Iolo’s CV

Bro (S4C) Iolo yn Rwsia (S4C) Gwyllt (S4C) Natur Anghyfreithlon (S4C) Crwydro (S4C) Canals of Wales (BBC) Wild Wales (BBC) Wild Winter (BBC) Iolo’s Special Reserves (BBC) Iolo’s Natural History of Wales (BBC) Iolo’s Welsh Safari 2005 (BBC) Iolo ac Indiaid America 2010 (S4C) Springwatch 2010 (BBC)

24/02/2012 09:45

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

In the last issue we began our adventure in horse ownership with ‘Decision time’, a look at the realities, costs and joys of such a mighty commitment. In this installment we tackle step two: ‘Where will he live… By Cazz Jones

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So you’ve decided that you’re ready to make this dream a reality; you’ve done your homework and worked out your budget. Now it’s time to get kitted out before your new companion arrives.

Where will he live? This is, without a doubt, the most important element to put in place before your horse arrives. If you have your own land – brilliant. Just make sure he has a regular supply of fresh water, hay and shelter. If you don’t have land you can use, don’t worry, there are a few options available to you:

Full livery You can stable your horse. ‘Full livery’ includes lodgings for your horse, grazing, mucking out, grooming, feed, hay, water, bedding shavings, rug change, horse walker and hoof pick once a day. Basically the work is done for you, all you need to do is turn up and ride him! Yes, it sounds ideal to have a ‘no work and all play’ scenario – but this will cost you (around £70 - £200 per week). However with work commitments and a busy schedule it is sometimes the only option that comes with that all important peace of mind. Make sure you research your chosen yard and make several visits before you commit. Ideally you want great care at a great price; however, more often than not there is never a truer saying… ‘you get what you pay for!’

Part livery Some of the work is done for you, but not all. For example a stable hand will do the morning feed and mucking out; you would need to do it in the evening. (A cheaper option and better for both you and your horse if you have the time.) The prices however are not that much cheaper than full livery; anywhere between £55 - £150 per week but you’ll ﬁnd that the inclusion of amenities offered with part livery varies a lot from yard to yard.

www.countrygardenroses.co.uk

UNFORGETTABLE PONY PARTIES PONY EXPERIENCES & HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

IDYLLIC SETTING TINY, GENTLE PONIES INDIVIDUAL ATTENTION AGES 2-13 NEAR CHESTER

01829 219106 www.CheshirePonyParties.co.uk amanda@CheshirePonyParties.co.uk

Graham Peters Joinery

DIY livery All you are paying for is the land and shelter. However some packages do include some extras. More often than not it can end up costing just as much as part livery after you’ve totted up the weekly costs of hay, feed and petrol – you need to weigh up the pros and cons and make the best decision If the deal looks for you and your new horse. be

Tip!

too good to true, it probably is!

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Individual, Kitchens Furniture & Bedrooms From our workshop to your home. Unit 1 Redwither Road, Wrexham Ind est LL13 9RD 07710 678 677

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23/02/2012 18:47

VET’S COLUMN

Pet Poisons During the spring and early summer there are hidden dangers out and about for our pets. Resident veterinarian Lucy Tubbs tells us what to look out for…

BRONEIRION

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Broneirion, Llandinam, Powys. SY17 5DE Tel: 01686 688204 Email: www.broneirion.com admin@broneirion.com

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SUN 18 MARCH, MOTHERS DAY LUNCHES SAT 7TH APRIL - BRONEIRION EASTER FOOD FAYRE SAT 19TH MAY - FAMILY PORTRAITS BY LILY MAY PHOTOGRAPHY THURS 12TH JULY - RHAYADER MALE VOICE CHOIR & GUESTS FRI 13TH JULY - 60’S & 70’S DISCO & BBQ

any of our common garden plants and spring bulbs can be toxic to cats and dogs if eaten. Dogs in particular are quite susceptible to poisoning from bulbs such as daffodils, hyacinths and bluebells, so make sure your dog isn’t following along behind when you’re planting them and digging them up as you go along! Always store bulbs in pet-proof containers and don’t ‘play ball’ with plant bulbs, even though your dog might think it’s great fun! Cats are usually less likely than dogs to eat strange things, but can pick up poisons inadvertently. The lily family is particularly toxic to cats, both as cut flowers and in the garden. The orangey red pollen that they produce can cause kidney problems in cats, and can easily be ingested if they get it on their fur and then lick it off when grooming. Also remember that the poisons we use to get rid of garden pests such as rats, slugs and ants can also be harmful to our pets. Make sure that you store these well out of harm’s way and always keep the original container so you know exactly what’s in them if any accidents do happen. Try and use a special bait container when putting poisons down so that your pets don’t have ready access to them in the garden. Another thing to look out for as the weather gets warmer is the emergence of British snakes who come to warm themselves in the sun. Although rarely fatal in humans, adders can give a nasty bite to dogs and cats which cause a lot of swelling and pain and can be fatal in some cases. If you see your cat or dog near a snake or being bitten by one, then call it away quickly and get prompt veterinary treatment for any bites or sudden swelling. Finally, with chocolate season upon us, make sure you keep all those chocolate eggs and hot cross buns out of your dog’s reach. A lot of people know about chocolate being poisonous to dogs, but not so many know about grapes and raisins, which are often in hot cross buns and simnel cake. If you’re unsure, don’t give your pets human food but do try and get out and about and enjoy the spring sunshine.

k New Foundry Vets, New Foundry Buildings, Gutter Hill, Johnstown, Wrexham LL14 1LS Tel: 01978 845472 Email: newfoundryvets@parkissa.com

About Lucy... Lucy graduated from Edinburgh University in 2007 and has worked as a vet with Park Issa ever since. She works at both the Oswestry and Johnstown branches and does a mixture of small animal and farm work.

Spring 2012 yattaryattar magazine 53

24/02/2012 15:00

WEDDING SPECIAL

North Wales

The Wedding Capital of the World! If you’re planning on getting married this year… congratulations! You are in extremely good company as an estimated 250,000 blushing brides and gallant grooms are expected to ‘tie the knot’ in Britain in 2012. Wales, with its beautiful countryside, stunning coastlines and enchanting coves, is fast establishing itself as the wedding capital of the UK. We ﬁnd out why…

The Dress

Finding the perfect ensemble for the perfect day can be almost as stressful as the rest of the preparations combined! Your dress should make you feel like the beautiful bride you are and make your guests ooh and ahh with unbridled envy. However, don’t feel pressurised into wearing a traditional white gown if it’s not your thing - many brides are now opting for dramatic colours or pretty pastels, depending upon their skin tones or personal taste. Do not buy your frock several sizes too small on the premise that you will slim into it as you will just be adding unwanted pressure to an already pressure-fraught time. We spoke to a few of the professionals so as to shed a little light on this all-important decision.

Shropshire Country Brides

‘Your dress should make you feel like the beautiful bride you are and make your guests ‘ooh’ and ‘ahh’ with envy’

situated in Much Wenlock, are thrilled to be celebrating 20 years in business. This ever-popular and professional bridal business continues to grow and ﬂourish from tiny acorns, oak trees grow and so it is true of this once tiny boutique that is now very proud to be the largest independent bridal retailer in the whole of Shropshire! Owner Sally Lea says: ‘We are delighted to be the only stockist in the county to offer such a wide and comprehensive choice of collections from many of the top wedding dress designers such as: Ian Stuart,

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‘We have several collections – there is something here for everyone’

Linea Raffaelli, Ann Balon, John Charles, Mon Cheri and Veni Infantino condici Pomodoro. The premises have quite recently been refurbished and now offers a very comfortable and spacious room dedicated to Mother of the Bride and Mother of the Groom where you will ﬁnd an array of outﬁts in all colours of the rainbow and an impressive selection of hats, fascinators, shoes, handbags and jewellery.’ For more information please pop in and see Sally and the team or visit: www.shropshirebrides.co.uk

So Chic

Wedding Bliss is a beautiful bridal boutique based in Prestatyn, North Wales. Owner Lisa Cywinski has built up a booming business which not only caters for the lovely bride-to-be, but also the mothers of the bride and groom and even the groom himself! Lisa says: ‘The wedding gown is the bride’s most important purchase for her special day; so time must be taken to ensure that it really suits her and gives her that perfect shape to look and feel amazing. You must remember that you will be walking, standing and dancing both day and night, so emphasis should be on comfort and of course looking fabulous. A ball gown style dress has a ﬁtted waist with a full skirt; this style looks great on slim brides as it adds curves and for pear shaped brides it would emphasise a slim waist. The ball gown is also the best shape for the more curvaceous bride - it can certainly ﬂatter and provide

The Suits Budget allowing, the gallant groom can opt for a tailor made number which echoes themes of the bridal gown. Your local suit hire shop can create such an affect at a snip of the price – the downside being you don’t get to keep the suit from your magical day. Many of the bridal shops can cater for the grooms needs too. Cameo Brides in Llandudno says: ‘Along with our selection of bridal gowns and bridesmaid dresses we also have men’s hire including accessories and shoes to create the right ensemble. We can help you carefully co-ordinate the groom’s party with the bride’s dress and bridesmaid’s outﬁts. Special care is taken to ensure that all colours are matching and we even hand-make cravats and ties to complement the styles and colour themes of the day.’

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is a ladies boutique selling beautiful quality clothes for all occasions. The business opened six years ago and is situated on Bangor High Street. Owner Carys Davies says: ‘Our aim is to provide a personal, friendly and professional environment in which to advise and guide the brides-to-be and indeed the allimportant mothers on their outfits for their special day. We have several collections, varying in price, style and size – there is something for everyone. We also sell matching accessories including shoes, bags, jewellery and headwear; making shopping for that perfect outfit as effortless as possible. Recently we won the regional and national award for ‘Best Occasion Wear’ in the first ever Welsh National Wedding Awards. This is an amazing achievement of which

we are very proud and we are grateful to all of our customers who nominated and voted for us.’ If So Chic’s winning collections sound like they could be for you, visit: www. sochicbangor.co.uk for more information.

a fabulous shape for even the fullest of figures! A-lines usually have a fitted bodice with a gentle flaring skirt from the waist; this is a great choice if the bride would like to emphasis her bust and allow the gown to flow gently to the ground (hiding any lumps and bumps in the process). Princess style gowns provide a fairytale look. Often encrusted with crystals this dress will ensure any princess has that added sparkle on her perfect day. Whatever your complexion there is a colour of gown to suit. They range from ivory, cream, white to black and nowadays pretty much any colour is conceivable.’ Lisa is always on hand to give you help and advice, please call: 01745 887037 for more information.

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WEDDING SPECIAL Rings by Rhiannon in Mid Wales (below), Bensons of Ludlow (bottom left), and The Ring Workshop in Oswestry (bottom right)

Rhiannon Welsh Gold Centre

The Rings

No matter how many photographs are taken or videos recorded, the most enduring, physical memento of your wedding are the rings. Hopefully you’ll be wearing them for the rest of your lives so it’s vital to choose a style which you adore.

Bensons of Ludlow

The Ring Workshop

WIN! WIN! WIN! £250 voucher towards the cost of your wedding rings at The Ring Workshop. Turn to page 102 for full details and how to win

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Bensons of Ludlow have an extensive range of wedding rings in stock and they are also able to make up bespoke rings in their on-site workshop. Owner David Benson who established the business in 1978 says: ‘We believe it is important to spend time with couples and help them to choose the perfect rings to suit both their personality and lifestyle (after all the rings are a lasting reminder of the wedding day and will still be around long after the tan has faded and the cake is eaten!) Many couples still opt to go for classic plain rings – the elegance and beauty of these rings never goes out of fashion. David continues: ‘In addition to the traditional precious metal choices of gold and platinum, other metals such as titanium and palladium are currently proving popular,

especially with men. Titanium has a beautiful soft grey tone and can be enhanced with a touch of gold or a few diamonds. Palladium is in the platinum family of metals and is very hardwearing and naturally white. It is a good alternative to platinum as it is much less expensive. Diamond set rings for ladies (and increasingly gents!) are particularly popular at the moment. Some couples want something completely unique and if this is the case we can make bespoke rings for them. We discuss initial ideas and then sketch out a few designs with costings – when the couple has found a design they are happy with, we can make the ring up for them. The whole process takes about six weeks. We have recently made up a very special two-tone ring by overlaying a bride’s grandmother’s yellow gold band onto a new white gold band. Come and see us at the shop, we will also be exhibiting at the forthcoming Ludlow Castle Wedding Fair on 1st April. Visit: www. bensonsoﬂudlow.co.uk

For a touch of luxury and true Welsh authenticity is has to be Welsh gold. Extremely scarce and very expensive, genuine Welsh gold is hard to come by but the Rhiannon Welsh Gold Centre in the heart of Wales, celebrating its fortieth anniversary last year, has been producing top quality designer Welsh Gold jewellery since the 1980s. Rhiannon says: ‘Here at Tregaron in Mid Wales we offer a bespoke wedding and engagement ring service which means every customer can have something unique to them. We make the rings by hand in our on-site workshop in silver, 9ct gold, 18ct gold and our own Rhiannon Welsh Gold. Visitors can watch our jewellers at work, browse in our large craft and art gallery, peruse the collection in the Museum of Celtic Art or choose something special from our own range of designer jewellery. We cater for every pocket and have strict quality standards for all Rhiannon jewellery whether it is silver or a diamond set Rhiannon Welsh Gold band. We have our own in-house diamond and precious stone expert who can help ﬁnd the perfect stone for you’. Visit the workshop in Tregaron or have a look online at: www.rhiannon. co.uk

The Ring Workshop situated in Smithfield Street, Oswestry is a well-respected jewellers you can rely on. The Ring Workshop has developed an enviable reputation for designing and manufacturing the finest wedding rings. Proprietor Mark Jones says: ‘Our philosophy is quite simple – to provide our customers with an unrivalled choice, exceptional quality and a unique service. With a comprehensive range of over 500 hand-made designs, and a flexible bespoke commission service, we’re the obvious choice for anyone looking for something a little different. Call us, we’re here to help… with prices starting at £75, you’re sure to find something you truly love!’ Those perfect rings are only a phone call away. Visit: www.ringworkshop.co.uk.

56 yattaryattar magazine Spring 2012

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The Chapel of Dreams A unique opportunity to stay in an original 1880 Old Chapel recently converted to a luxury 8 berth holiday let. Situated on the Porthmadog road some 3 miles from the popular market town of Pwllheli, providing all local amenities including Marina, beach and golf course.

Accommodation: • Utility room with washing machine, dryer & WC • Impressive open plan lounge/dining/kitchen area • Ground floor double bedroom with en-suite walk-in shower room • First floor 2 double bedrooms, 1 twin bedroom & large family bathroom • Sky TV and wireless broadband • Bar table football and pool table • Outside parking for 3 cars and a patio with seating around • Friday arrival day & short breaks available on request Capel Bryn Bachau Chwilog, Pwllheli LL53 6RQ Tel: 07708627071 e.mail: sarah@luxurychapelwales.co.uk www.luxurychapelwales.co.uk

Collection of Prestatyn We specialise in quality gowns at affordable prices and we pride ourselves with the highest level of customer service. Whether your dream dress is, elegant, sophisticated, full or straight, a structured bodice, full skirts or beautifully detailed trains, you are guaranteed to have your ultimate dream dress to come to life with us. MENS HIRE, MOTHER OF THE BRIDE, BRIDESMAID & ACCESSORIES ALSO NOW AVAILABLE PROM/PARTY DRESSES & GLAMOROUS, EVENING WEAR

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WEDDING SPECIAL

A wedding marquée at Brookhouse Mill near Denbigh

The Location

This is probably the most important decision to be made. A beautiful backdrop to your big day is what every couple (and guest for that matter) envisions. Even if your budget is somewhat unattractive there’s no reason why your location needs to be. Here’s a few of Yattar Yattar’s trump cards… Brookhouse Mill is a 17th Century mill with an atmospheric restaurant which features many of the old mill’s cogs and wheels downstairs. Yet a Plas Newydd – an historic modern touch has been added with a first location for a wedding floor conservatory and an area of private dining which overlooks the river and gardens. Brookhouse Mill’s pièce de résistance is their marquée and catering service – this offers you the chance to customise your wedding and make it completely your own – anywhere you like! Manager Karen Hall says: ‘As accomplished outside caterers for over ten years, we decided 2006 was the year to complement our outside catering business with a fabulous marquée. We have 30ft wide marquées of varying sizes to suit a reception from 60 to 200 guests. We can bring this venue to your own home so you can keep that intimate wedding feel for 150 guests! We can also organise luxury toilet facilities, heating and entertainment. We have good relations with many wedding florists, photographers and wedding cars too!’ Visit: www.brookhousemill.co.uk

What about a Professional Toastmaster? Shawn Davies, professional lady toastmaster explains: ‘The professional toastmaster is a traditional part of British banqueting. I perform the duties of a Toastmaster or a Master of Ceremonies which includes welcoming the guests, directing them to the appropriate place or room, organising a receiving line, making announcements and introducing the guest speakers and helping with presentations. I also interact and work alongside the organisers, keeping an eye on the time and helping to make the event or occasion run smoothly. I am fully trained in protocol and etiquette procedures and specialise in weddings. Let me help you make your special day a memorable one – enabling you to relax knowing your event is in capable hands!’

Denbighshire Heritage

Alternative Wedding Venues ❋ Ffestiniog Railway –The café is licensed for civil wedding ceremonies and is also available for parties and other functions by prior request. Please phone 01766 516024 for details or visit: www. festrail.co.uk ❋ Llechwedd Slate Caverns – They have various underground caverns where your wedding can take place, but by far the most popular is by the side of the spectacular underground lake. The beautifully lit water, impressive acoustics and cathedral high chambers all add to a most atmospheric setting. Visit: www.llechwedd-slate-caverns.co.uk ❋ Llangollen Railway – Llangollen Railway is licensed for Weddings and Civil Ceremonies. We specialise in providing a personal and unique venue for those who are looking for a small intimate ceremony with a truly relaxing experience for you and your guests. Visit: www.llangollenrailway.co.uk For more wedding venue options visit: www.weddingvenuesinwales.co.uk

▲

has three beautiful properties for your consideration: Plas Newydd in Llangollen is an historic site which offers a unique and picturesque setting for the perfect ceremony. The period rooms and splendid grounds provide the Nantclwyd: dates from perfect setting for the big day as well as a unique range the 15th century of backdrops for photographic work. Plas Newydd was once home to the ‘Ladies of Llangollen’, these ladies were celebrated throughout the country as their story of friendship spread through regency society. The house retains the Gothic features they introduced and is quite simply… stunning! Or you could step back in time to the seven ages of Nantclwyd’s history – imagine holding your civil ceremony in a 15th century medieval chamber with its wealth of beams and waxed linen windows. The lovely gardens are the perfect setting for any photographs and why not cosy-up in the Summerhouse with its splendid views! Lastly, situated in the heart of Ruthin, couples looking to give their newly acquired life sentence the Ruthin Gaol: for authentic touch can now tie the knot at this former a civil ceremony North Wales prison! Yes, you read correctly – but do with a difference not be put off; Ruthin Gaol can cater for the most law-abiding citizens for a truly different civil ceremony experience. The gaol, ﬁrst built in the 17th Century, is the only remaining Pentonville style prison in the UK that can offer a historic backdrop that’s totally unique. Visit: www.denbighshire.gov.uk

58 yattaryattar magazine Spring 2012

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As the area’s leading diamond and wedding ring specialist, we carry an extensive range of classic rings in 9 and 18 carat yellow, white and rose gold and also in platinum and palladium.

Shropshire's Wedding Ring Specialist

Our Wedding Package Buy both partners’ rings from us and you will receive: FREE engraving on the inside of both rings FREE double ring box and best man’s pouches FREE clean and polish of engagement ring prior to the big day FREE first anniversary clean and polish for all rings 10% off all bridal jewellery and best man/ bridesmaid gifts

Tel: 01584 872676 The Buttercross, Ludlow, Shropshire SY8 1AW www.bensonsofludlow.co.uk

Do you require a shaped wedding ring? Our bespoke fitting service will be able to fashion a wedding ring to STUDIO VISITS BY APPOINTMENT PLEASE. match your engagement ring perfectly.

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Gwesty Seiont Manor Hotel

Seiont Manor, exclusively yours… Imagine arriving at your magnificent country house, hidden amongst 150 acres of Welsh countryside for your magical and enchanting wedding day. Exclusive use of Seiont Manor for your special day from £5,500. Last minute availability offers - please enquire For further details and to discuss your individual requirements call our Wedding Team on 01286 673366 handpickedhotels.co.uk Gwesty Seiont Manor Hotel Llanrug, Caernarfon Gwynedd LL55 2AQ

HOTELS B U I L T

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HOTELS B U I L T

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P L E A S U R E

Brookhouse Mill is a 17th century water mill, which has been restored into an atmospheric restaurant which still features the low beams, grinding stones, cogs and wheels of its industrial past.

We are open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week and open all day on Sundays. Situated on the A525 between Denbigh and Ruthin with ample parking.

Serving a variety of menus from light snacks at lunchtime to ﬁne a la carte menu in the evening using great local welsh produce. Our traditional Sunday lunch is extremely popular and good value.

We are accomplished outside caterers with over 10 years experience. Our clear white span marquee can be hired on site or even brought to you for your own requirements. The marquee can take from 60-200 guests.

Why not treat your special mum on April 3rd. We also have a large function room, catering for weddings, christenings and parties and a modern conservatory for private dinner parties and special occasions.

Let us take all the stress out of your wedding day preparations by offering the complete package of venue, catering and bar facility.

We can also organise luxury toilet facilities, heating and entertainment.

Visit our website for more information www.brookhousemill.co.uk or call us on 01745

813377

Wedding Fairs Wedding Show at The Plassey – essential for all brides to be

The Flowers

Flowers are undeniably an integral feature of your wedding day. They help to set the tone and add to the feeling of celebration. Whether they are for the bride’s bouquet, table centrepieces or general venue decoration, beautiful blooms are a must. Here’s what the expert Laura Evison at Regent House of Flowers says: ‘When choosing your florist for your special day, it’s always important to feel comfortable and happy with their designs and style of floristry, also ask for recommendations from other brides and see photos of their work. Once you have decided on your florist, place a booking fee to ensure they will do the flowers for your special day. We have a Facebook page dedicated to photos of brides and flowers designs.’ Visit: www.regenthouseofflowers. co.uk for more info. Tip: choosing your flowers first will help you theme the rest of the wedding quite easily. See our Floriography chart (below) for some ideas.

❋ Hartford Golf Club, Northwich, Cheshire CW8 3AA – Sunday 25th March, 2012 For a great family day out and to meet all of their wedding professionals under one roof. Call: 07969 619051 ❋ Moorside Grange Hotel, Cheshire SK12 2AP – Sunday 25th March, 2012 Wide range of exhibitors from bridal wear, groomswear, photography, cakes, jewellery, cars and much more, there is everything on display for your big day. With free competitions, special offers on the day, expert advice, and free entry. Call: 01663 764151

The Photographer

Choosing a reliable photographer to document one of the most important days of your life can be a confusing experience so it is vital to shop around until you find one that can offer you exactly the right package. Ask lots of questions, take a look at their portfolio and, if possible, speak to previous clients. Nigel Hughes Photography pride themselves in the ability to create an intimate record of your special day. With over 20 years of experience they really do know their onions! Nigel says: ‘Our style is fresh, contemporary and romantic. If you really want your wedding photos to say a thousand words then there simply can not be any short cuts. There is no magic wand and the belief that anyone with a camera is a professional photographer is an unfortunate, disappointing fallacy. Of course we do the traditional, formal wedding pictures if desired, but we also shoot candid, informal pictures by working unobtrusively. This way we capture the truth of your special day and create a stunning storybook which can be revisited for the rest of your lives.’ Visit: www.nigelhughesphoto.com

❋ The Plassey Spring Wedding & Event Show 2012, Eyton on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th March 2012 – 11.00am until 4.30pm An exciting new wedding and event show for North Wales. Quality wedding and party specialists will be available to offer both the traditional and something a little different for your special event. There will be a roaming catwalk throughout the show on both days showing bridal dresses, bridesmaids dresses and prom dresses supplied by Cameo Brides at the Plassey. Free parking and free entry to the show! Visit:www.plassey.com

Floriography Lily – purity Daisy – innocence Red rose – love and passion Pink rose – love and honesty Snowdrop – hope and optimism Primrose – enduring love Sunflower – loyalty Orchid – beauty Ivy – fidelity

❋ Pryors Hayes Golf Club, near Chester CH3 8NL – Sunday 1st April, 2012 Summer Wedding Fayre at the beautiful Pryors Hayes Golf Club situated between Northwich and Chester. Free admission and Free parking. Call: 07969 619051 ❋ Faenol Fawr Country House Hotel, Denbighshire – Sunday 18th March, 2012 Set in its own grounds and just a stone’s throw from the A55, the Faenol Fawr is a family-owned venue perfect for your dream wedding. A unique blend of exhibitors to help you create the most magical of days. Call: 07914 806410 ❋ Combermere Abbey, Whitchurch, SY13 4AJ – Sunday 25th March, 2012 An ideal opportunity for guests to view the Abbey’s beautiful garden setting and the ‘Walled Garden Pavilion’. Plus all the ‘musthaves’ only found at a well-planned wedding fair. Call: 0161 9254289 ❋ Holt Lodge Hotel, Wrexham – Sunday 11th March, 2012 Showcasing the best of Wrexham’s wedding suppliers. Also showcasing Holt Lodge’s newly refurbished Garden Lounge function suite. Call: 01691 773587 ❋ Trevor Barn, Wrexham – Sunday 1st April, 2012 Over 25 wedding specialists on hand to offer help and advice to help you plan your special day. See Trevor Barn set up for a typical wedding reception complete with marquée. Call: 01691 773587

Spring 2012 yattaryattar magazine 61

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With UK household incomes being tightly squeezed, escalating energy costs are a rapidly growing concern. A recent Consumer Focus report estimates that the proportion of homes experiencing fuel poverty in England and Wales has risen sharply from 18% to 24% in the last two years. In Wales, over 41% of households spend more than 10% of their income on fuel. Rural properties relying on oil and LPG have been particularly hard hit. Oil prices have nearly doubled in the past two years, whilst LPG is 80% more expensive than four years ago. Soaring global demand from developing countries and security concerns in the Middle East are likely to ensure that energy prices continue rising. The outlook remains bleak for consumers. It has never been a better time for UK households to consider renewable energy. Fortunately, the government is committed to reducing carbon emissions by encouraging the adoption of renewable technology. Despite austerity measures, it has allocated £860m to support the Renewable Heat Incentive. Already benefitting businesses, it is due to be extended into the domestic sector by the end of the year. Feed-in-Tariffs for solar PV also remain very generous, whilst the forthcoming ‘Green Deal’ will help homeowners finance energy-saving improvements to their properties. The ‘Warm Front’ programme also helps struggling households improve energy efficiency with grants of up to £6,000. One of the UK’s leading renewable energy suppliers now has regional offices in the West Midlands and Cheshire. Since its establishment in 2004, pioneering firm Ecoliving has helped hundreds of households select the most appropriate technology from the world’s leading manufacturers of heat pumps, heat recovery ventilation systems, solar thermal panels, solar PV modules, wood & pellet boilers and wood-burning stoves. As over 80% of domestic energy consumption goes on heating and hot water, this is where homeowners can make the greatest savings. Although simple steps such as draught-proofing, insulation, and turning down thermostats can save of hundreds of pounds a year, renewable technology can potentially save thousands of pounds!

Professional advice

The boom in Solar PV installations gave rise to concerns about quality and the reliability of installers’ claims. It is vital that professional advice is sought from reputable companies that are registered under the Government’s Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). This also means that customers will qualify for Government incentive schemes. Not only does Ecoliving offer free, no obligation surveys and energy reports, its experts can design and install an integrated renewable energy solution, as well as advising on any grants or funding available. For further information or an informal discussion, please contact one of Ecoliving’s Regional Directors, Peter Hardy or Alison Nolan, on 0845 301 3121, email info@ecolivinguk.com or visit www.ecolivinguk.com

Jonathan Guppy

An experienced self-builder who has also previously owned a successful renewable energy business, Jonathan is a freelance writer specialising in renewable energy, self-building, technology, small business and public policy.

23/02/2012 18:03

Homes& Gardens Planting your dream ﬂower garden

Grow your own food! WE ALL LIKE THE IDEA OF GROWING OUR OWN FRUIT AND VEGETABLES; BUT WHY IS IT ONLY A SMALL HANDFUL OF US ACTUALLY DO IT? SO WE’VE COME UP WITH A FOOL-PROOF METHOD FOR GROWING YOUR OWN MUNCH; ALL YOU NEED TO DO IS FOLLOW THIS SIMPLE PLAN!

The secret… Is… compost bags! If your garden has enough space for at least five bags laid side-by-side in a sun spot then you’re officially enrolled in the compost club (of course the more bags the merrier, but five is a good start). All you need to do is: cut them open, plant with seeds and seedlings and follow this simple plan which, if followed correctly, will supply you with your own vegetables and culinary herbs. Benefits of the bag The reason

this method works is quite simple… the bag. It prevents pests such as seedlingkilling cutworms (these are rascally little caterpillars who live in the soil and feast on your crops) and it eliminates most, if not all the weeds wishing to steal the vital nutrients from the soil because there aren’t any weeds in the bag. If you have space, once the plants are hardy enough, you can transport them into a permanent plant bed and then start the whole process again.

Grow your own This selection of

easy-to-grow crops will provide you with seasonal, fresh vegetables for the pot and pantry and will also produce a year’s supply of tasty herbs; which in turn attracts beautiful butterﬂies and pollinators to your garden, creating your own little piece of paradise. It’s important to plant seasonally so that every crop gets the type of weather it prefers, which is key. Using a knife, cut out a large rectangular window on the upper surface of each bag

(leaving a margin so it resembles a picture frame) sprinkle some organic fertiliser over the top of the soil and mix. Puncture each bag through at least a dozen times with a screwdriver or a big knife to create plenty of drainage holes in the bottom. Plant roots will use these holes to grow down into the soil below the bags. Then wait a month or so for the soil to settle.

Mid Spring – April and early May

Now you can begin planting your precious crops; get in the onions, beetroot and early lettuce. Plant your onion seedlings in one of the bags (you can design your vegetable garden any way you like – for beginners, start with just one bag per vegetable variety or a combination for the more advanced gardener, plant as many as you have room for – but they must have plenty of sunlight), make sure you give them plenty of water around the roots. Sow beetroot seeds half-an-inch deep and two inches apart, water and sow some early lettuce in another bag.

Next job Potatoes and peas. Pop the

potatoes in the compost bags two inches deep and 12 inches apart, ﬂanked by double rows of peas. (Add short sticks next to each pea bush to help it climb). Get those greens and herbs in too: plant lettuce, dill, coriander and spinach seeds in another bag – plant spinach the same way as you did with the beetroot. Next set out your herbs (oregano, rosemary, sage, thyme) in yet another bag. Plant a few more lettuce and coriander plants in three week’s time. At this stage also thin seedlings if overcrowded, pull any weeds out and mulch! If you want the best results then mulching has many beneﬁts. It can provide nutrients for plants, lock in moisture, form a barrier against weeds and can help to insulate the roots of vulnerable plants from cold. Mulches can also be used for decorating the tops of pots. Many different materials can be used, including bark chippings, leaf mould, wellrotted farmyard manure or crushed shells. Make sure you nurture, water and monitor your plants everyday.

EXPERT ADVICE FROM RICHARD EVANS AT SNOWDONIA GARDEN CENTRE The art of plant placement to create harmonious or contrasting colour schemes in the garden is a skill which takes years to acquire. Trial and error will be the starting point for most gardeners and is often the best route; carefully researched plant selection can still fail due to local variations in soil and climate. If it doesn’t work don’t be afraid to dig up the offending plant and move it. The other guaranteed route to success is to steal other people’s ideas! There is no shame in this as many of the best associations probably occurred by accident in the first place. Visiting gardens, especially local ones with similar soil and climate, is the best source of inspiration. Be very wary of flower show exhibits; many of these blooms are forced early into flower under glass, or retarded in cold stores, so you may well see a beautiful display of daffodils (Spring flowering) surrounding stately blue delphiniums (Summer flowering), a combination which would never coincide in your garden. Every gardener has their favourite plant associations, maybe its the rosy purple flowers of the very early dwarf Rhododendron praecox which can be relied to flower in sync with the dreamy Corylopsis pauciflora, with its hazel like twigs and leaves, and elegant drooping primrose flowers. But there are plants which are stars in their own right, which demand to be viewed in isolation with no competition from unruly neighbours which would only detract from their form and outline. For such thoroughbreds often all that is required is a clear blue sky, or a white washed wall as a background, or an arch or a window to frame their beauty. Corkscrew hazels, Japanese maples, Magnolias, Embothriums and some of the choice dogwoods e.g. Cornus alternifolia are examples of such horticultural treasures. Some plants also benefit from shade cast by neighbours. Many of our favourite spring flowering plants such as daffodils, snowdrops, primulas, hellebores and pulmonarias are best planted under deciduous trees which cast a light dapppled shade. Climbing plants with flambouyant flowers can be allowed to scramble through otherwise dull evergreens. Similarly clematis and honeysuckle can bring colour and fragrance to trees as long as the soil at the base is not too dry. Whatever you do, don’t be afraid, it can easily be changed!

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Homes& Gardens Acorn An Antiques WE TALKED TO THE TRADERS AT ACORN ANTIQUES FOR ADVICE ON BUYING AND SELLING PIECES FOR THE HOME OR AS A UNIQUE GIFT, AND DISCOVERED THAT WREXHAM IS ACTUALLY A VERY GOOD PLACE FOR BARGAIN HUNTERS… ‘We really do have, across the board, something for everybody – from art deco to modern collectables, from Georgian to Sixties retro. We have furniture, ceramics, glass, books, jewellery, toys, prints, paintings, military items and a great deal more. ‘Thirty-six independent traders work out of Acorn, taking space that varies from one cabinet to whole rooms, and it’s the ideal place to find something unique for your home or as a gift. When you buy antiques, they have a real chance of increasing in value – but the most important thing is to buy quality items because they have enduring value. In fact, at the present, investing in antiques is better than putting your money in the bank!’ While looking at one cabinet filled with British militaria, one of the traders points out that: ‘Collecting has actually been a British trait for centuries – did you know that London had antique shops back in the 1850’s? It’s sad really, we’re losing our skills here in the UK for crafts – for example Royal Worcester closed its UK factory 18 months ago and Royal Doulton is now produced in China – these new pieces are not numbered like the original pieces made in the UK, and are unlikely to accrue in value.’ So is it true that antiques are becoming more fashionable recently? Another trader points out that: ‘We find that more people now prefer to buy antiques if they can. People know that, generally, furniture is sturdier and better quality, the older designs suit older houses better, and usually there is a story behind the piece. Our home styles are in danger of becoming too generic – everything looks the same, and there is less choice on the high street because it is all mass-produced.’ And what if I have a piece of furniture that I don’t have room for, but I think it might be worth something? A furniture dealer says: ‘The thing to remember is, whether it’s furniture, ceramics, jewellery or anything of age generally – quality items will always sell and if looked after will increase in value. Mass-produced items, such as you find in a department store, are unlikely to increase in value.’ ‘If you think you have a family heirloom you would wish to sell, the best thing to do is take a picture or bring it in. One of our traders here will visit and give you an honest appraisal as to what it could be worth. The thing to remember is that merely because something is old it doesn’t necessarily mean it will sell, and if you sell an item through an auction house they will deduct around 25% of the sale price as fees. ‘In London, we could probably get double what we charge here – Wrexham is a great place to buy antiques and because of that we get dealers visiting from Chester, Llandudno, Birmingham, Cardiff, Surrey, Kent, Ireland and beyond!

Paving Perfection

If it’s about time that tired looking patio of yours had a makeover then look no further! Westminster Stone specialises in a comprehensive selection of contemporary, ethically sourced, natural stone paving products, as well as a range of decorative gravels and in 2010 celebrated a very respectable 25 years at the forefront of product development in the landscape industry. John Clifford, managing director says: ‘We’ve always designed and manufactured products that much larger companies have only aspired to produce. We pride ourselves on having retained our independence, as a third generation family-owned business, we’re proud to be just a little different to our competitors in the products and levels of service that you can expect.’ When buying a Westminster Stone paved garden or kitchen you really are getting the very best at a modest price. John continues: ‘Our ranges are themed by historical and cultural influences and include: Renaissance – meaning re-birth, a period of transition from medieval to modern times; Contemporary – meaning the circumstances, ideas and styles of the present age; Classic – of lasting significance or worth; and Period – a stage in the history of a culture, and having a definable place in space and time. ‘We have also been working with the National Trust to create a collection of authentic paving and landscaping products, launched at the Chelsea Flower Show last year. Inspiration and materials for the collection have been drawn from the properties and landscapes cared for by the National Trust. This new collection is one of my proudest achievements and I think it will find a way into all back gardens due to its beauty and nature.’ Westminster stone understand that employing a professional fitter can be a costly affair and so to combat this have designed a handy layout guide for their customers; nonetheless a professional fitter is always recommended to get the best results. For more information on how to be the very proud owner of a perfectly paved garden or kitchen visit: www.westminsterstone.com

Look out for Wynnstay Stores’ Spring Events!

Wynnstay Stores throughout the region will be holding Spring events between the 13th–15th of April with a host of offers, demonstrations and specialist advice given on the days. Held in Wynnstay Stores throughout Mid and North Wales as well as Shropshire and the Midlands, ensuring there will be an event near you! Each store will host one-day only deals on equine, garden and smallholder products, and hold demonstrations, workshops and advice from specialists. Full details of the events are not yet available, so look out for more information. For a list of store locations visit: www.wynnstay.co.uk

Springtime deals to your door! Austrian Bohemian Glass centrepiece, 1850-1870

Japanese Art Nouveau, Noritake, 1900-1930, gold leaf embossed and hand painted

Acorn Antiques is open 7 days 10am - 5pm and Thursdays till 8pm Find them on the A541 Wrexham/Mold Road, Gwersyllt LL11 4AF (Behind HEART FM Radio)

01978-754090

www.acornantiqueswales.com

Wynnstay Stores latest ‘Best Buys’ campaign will be kicking off on Monday the 26th of March across all stores. There will be a range of excellent deals including garden products to get your garden looking its best, reduced prices on your favourite pet food brands, plus reductions on equine, clothing, farm and smallholder products. Offers will start on the 26th of March and will run until the 30th of April, ensuring you have plenty of time to pop into your local Wynnstay Store to pick up a great deal!

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Cholmondeley Castle Gardens Visit Acorn Antiques & Collectables

Two Large Floors of interesting items for you to Explore! Enjoy a refreshing cuppa or light meal in our Coffee Shop and continue on your explorations. PLUS ‘Berwyn Books’ fully stocked library

We are open 7 days 10am - 5pm and Thursdays till 8pm Find us on the A541 Wrexham/Mold Road, Gwersyllt LL11 4AF (Behind HEART FM Radio)

01978-754090

www.acornantiqueswales.com

Sunday 1st April

cholmondeley castle gardens open for the season – wednesdays, thursdays, sundays and bank holidays 11.00am to 5.00pm

Easter Sunday 8th April

a family easter egg hunt an enjoyable family day out at cholmondeley castle gardens, come and find the bunnies and win an easter treat. bunny trail commences 11.00 am to 3.00pm.

Sunday 13th May - classic car rally

(admission to gardens at event prices please refer www.classicshows.org/main for details).

Sunday 20th May

professor humo punch & judy two half hour performances 1pm and 3pm at the tea room. great fun for the children.

www.cholmondeleycastle.com or telephone 01829 720383

We think we have made the greatest duvet in the world! Giving you the best night’s sleep ever! Far superior to any feather duvet and far, far superior to a polyester duvet... Its more than just a duvet...

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Pronounced Baavay of course!

100% pure fine wool filling 100% natural cotton outer AND what’s more it’s made right here in Britain in fact most of it in Wales!

• Breathable • Dustmite resistant • Naturally hypoallengenic • Temperature regulating

• Moisture wicking • Sustainable • No Nasty Chemicals

See our website for details www.baavet.co.uk or phone us on 01766 780780. BAAVET CYF 12, TAN Y CASTELL, HARLECH, GWYNEDD LL46 2UE

Homes& Gardens

Re-upholstering the latest in DIY BY MARK LINGARD DIY HAS NEVER BEEN MY STRONG POINT. A TOOLBOX AND TOOLS GIVEN AS A CHRISTMAS PRESENT BY MY EVER-HOPEFUL FATHER HAVE SAT SADLY NEGLECTED IN THE GARAGE EVER SINCE. If anything beyond a picture frame needs doing, my wife does it. So perhaps I am one of the most unlikely people ever to try my hand at the two-day Upholstery Course offered by JA Milton Upholstery Supplies, based in the picturesque market town of Ellesmere. I mean, why repair an old chair when you can quite cheaply buy a new one? It’s an attitude all too common in today’s throw-away society. The courses are held in the company’s workshop, taught by master upholsterer, Joan Milton – who has more than 20 year’s experience. You take along your own project – be it a chair that’s sat in the attic for years, a family heirloom, or something second hand that took your eye. Elsewhere in the room there was just that: an old family chair; a secondhand bargain; an Ottoman rescued from the loft, and my modern classic. At the start of the two days my aim had been simple. Produce something at least good enough to take home and be able to look my wife (and father) in the eye! My chair frame had two parts – a back and a seat. I began by webbing the back. Webbing gives the seat or back its strength, so it had to be done properly, and I had to learn to use a webbing strainer. And everything had to be hammered

home. I’m clearly a paciﬁst. I can’t even hurt tacks. Joan’s ‘just whack it’ only had the merest hint of genuine frustration. Then there was the magnetic hammer – not as easy to use initially as it looks but certainly worth the effort to master as it began to make life much easier. And I also discovered I’d been using a hammer incorrectly all my life. The webbing was followed by hessian, edging roll, and rubberised hair. Sounds easy enough, but it’s all got to be exact. Elsewhere in the workshop other students were learning a variety of methods for their varying projects, from traditional stitched hair to foam. And time truly does ﬂy when you’re having fun. Lunch came around after what felt like just a few minutes – time to talk to your fellow housemates. What struck me was how many people were returning for a second, third or even fourth course – a testament to the standard of teaching on offer. After a well-earned break and a more than satisfying lunch I surprised even myself when I found that I was eager to get started again. By the end of the day a chair was slowly beginning to emerge. We’d added the cotton felt, skin wadding and calico – a slightly addictive material as it’s quite fun to tear – and the top fabric had been measured and cut. Day Two and the emerging perfectionist was to be sorely tested. I’d chosen quite a detailed fabric, with an intricate pattern. It would look amazing, but only if I could stretch, manipulate and cajole it into exactly the right position. The centre of the pattern had to be

in the middle at both the top and the bottom – painstaking work. The seat was next, and it began to take shape quickly. Because I’d learnt the techniques already I made rapid progress and I’d get to sit on it soon. Then we came to the corners. Now, not only am I poor at DIY, I am terrible at wrapping Christmas presents. They always look like the work of a small child. These corners required the same sort of skills: exact folds, folding things behind each other, pulling everything tight, making it look neat – I watched, watched and watched again. Then I’d try and replicate. No, it was Christmas Eve all over again. Still, as ever during the two days, help was always on hand. And pretty soon my chair was looking amazing – far better than I’d ever dared hope. But better still was the sense of achievement. I did that, I didn’t buy it, I had made that chair! Okay, I needed help with the corners and a few stubborn tacks hammering home by someone with more of a penchant for violence than I have. But everything comes with practice, and I for one will be practicing my new skills. That sitting room won’t know what’s hit it over the next 12 months.

Courses: JA Milton Upholstery Supplies runs courses in ❋ Upholstery ❋ Caning & Seagrass ❋ Loose Covers ❋ Furniture Painting & Gilding ❋ How to draw and paint pictures ❋ Upholstery, AMUSF Qualiﬁcation Phone: 01691 624023 Email: alison@jamiltonupholstery.co.uk Web: www.jamiltonupholstery.co.uk

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Bunners from a quad bike to a stanley stove

Bunners has been trading as a hardware store since 1892 and continues to offer a friendly family-run store which thrives on unspoken values mostly forgotten by the rest of the world. Cookery Demo on Saturday 21st April 2012 R.H. Bunner & Son, Arthur Street, Montgomery, SY15 6RA. Tel: 0844 800 5288 www.rhbunner.co.uk

Rosedale with Logstore, British made. Selection of other makes and models also available.

n n

Suites

Vinyl n

Carpets

Karndean

Bedroom & Dining Furniture

Beds n

Lift/Rise Recliners

Nursery Furniture

Chirk LL14 5NA

Web: www.shannonsales.co.uk

Telephone 01691 773 257

Everything you will ever need for your garden, outdoor furniture and gift ideas, all under one roof set in the stunning Conwy Valley. Fulfil your gardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s potential with a visit to Snowdonia Nurseries and be inspired by the magnificent array of flowers, bulbs, gifts and furniture. Soak up the excitement of Spring over a hot drink or delicious lunch in The Olive Tree Coffee Shop and embrace the endless possibilities for your home. Snowdonia Nurseries, Llanrwst Road, Glan Conwy, Colwyn Bay, Conwy LL28 5SR. W www.snowdonianurseries.co.uk T 01492 580703

Glyndwr Plants SPRING: Awakening Time in the Garden Great ideas for spring planting Wide range of fruit trees and bushes. New season perennials, shrubs and alpines. Seed potatoes onion sets and other vegetables now in. Relax in our coffee shop or on the new patio and enjoy a selection of out scrumptious homemade cakes and scones or choose from our menu of delicious light lunches. Freshly ground coffees and various teas available.

Coffee Shop 01490 413688 | Garden Centre 01490 413313 The centre is on the A5104, half a mile out of Corwen. www.glyndwrplants.co.uk

Phone/text 01743 891143 07941 232218 Jill@bloomingideas.co.uk. www.bloomingideas.co.uk follow @bloominggardens Blooming Ideas Garden Design

Homes& Gardens Overseeing production of the hand-made Baavets

No More Counting Sheep! Roger Payne and Lesley wrapped up warm in one of their creations!

JAMES MCKINNEY TESTS THE LATEST INNOVATION TO COME FROM WEST WALES - A ‘BAAVET’ – (PRONOUNCED ‘BAAVAY’), A DUVET MADE FROM SHEEP’S WOOL. IS IT REALLY IS THE BEST THING FOR SLEEP SINCE THE DUVET CROSSED THE ENGLISH CHANNEL? I wondered – if it’s good enough to keep even the hardiest mountain sheep warm, what would it be like to sleep under in the middle of February? We decided to compare it against a 13.5 tog John Lewis goose down duvet, and to compare the difference over a period of several weeks. As it turned out, the middle of February turned into a really cold spell and we had temperatures down to minus eight centigrade, so it was the perfect opportunity to test the Baavet’s claims. The ﬁrst thing we noticed, when unpacking the Baavet, is it seemed thinner than our down duvet – we thought this was because it would expand after unpacking, so was initially a bit compressed. Apart from the difference in thickness – with the down duvet a bit more ‘puffed up’, it was difﬁcult to tell the two duvets apart. However we understand that the wool duvet will continue to puff up over time and it won’t lump into pockets like feathers and down do. During the night, however, the advantages of wool became apparent – I sometimes wake up too hot, and it can ruin my night’s sleep as it takes up to two hours to nod off again (mild insomnia, a professional hazard!), but this rarely happened with the Baavet. Whereas I am always too hot my partner is always too cold but wool not only seems to regulate body temperature it

actually can regulate two different body temperatures in the same bed. The other noticeable difference took a couple of weeks before we realised (and I make no apologies for the details!) – my sinuses were a lot clearer in the mornings after two weeks – admittedly our down duvet is a few years old so, like any bedding, will accumulate dust mites, but it does make you think how long you’ve been unnecessarily putting up with a blocked nose in the morning. It would appear that wool has also helped eczema suffers. So we looked into what the experts were saying about sleeping with wool, and found Dr Mercola on the internet. He is well-known in the United States as an expert in preventative medicine and is often on television or in newspapers giving advice. He says: ‘Always sleep with natural products, like cotton, never use synthetics or non-iron materials. Many people use feather down because it’s natural, but down is treated with a chemical ﬁre retardant. Plus, down does not allow your body to regulate the temperature so it is easy to overheat… Also one in 10 people suffer from dust mite allergies, and dust mites grow very easily in down and polyester sleeping materials. So overall, wool seems to be the best material – it is naturally ﬂame resistant and, it repels water (so you can wash them at home), and allows your body to self-regulate its temperature relatively easily – wool is the best material to put in your comforter.’(That’s American for duvet!)

Conclusion – who’s the winner?

The real test came when we had to choose which duvet to put in storage in the loft, and which to keep in our bedroom, and there wasn’t much debate at all – the Baavet won hands down, and is still on our bed today! So it really does seem that a sleep covering made from wool with a 100% cotton covering is the best thing for sleep since the orthopaedic mattress. The idea of making a wool duvet came from Gwynedd farmer, Roger Payne, who was looking to make a product from wool. However it was his wife Lesley who felt calling it a wool duvet would be rather boring and said let’s call it a Baavet. Roger says: ‘We were really surprised to ﬁnd that wool duvets were already made in New

Zealand and some other parts of the world so we set out to make a wool duvet that would be as good as foreign manufacturers using British wool. After two years developing the product we now send our wool to Yorkshire where it’s scoured (cleaned) and carded (combed) and then quilted into rolls before coming back to North Wales where the individual duvets are made in our small factory unit under the walls of Harlech castle. Our Baavets are the first and only 100% pure wool quilted duvets made in the UK; far superior to any feather duvet and far, far superior to a polyester duvet. ‘The feed back we get from clients is quite amazing but then the truth is that wool is the most breathable fibre on earth and is a naturally clean product and is quite amazing really. We’ve now had over a thousand satisfied clients, many of whom keep coming back to buy more for themselves, family and friends.’ y

The key beneﬁts of a Baavet are that it’s: • 100% Pure Natural British wool inner • 100% Cotton ﬁbre proof outer • It’s breathable and ‘wicks’ moisture away from the body • Regulates body temperature • Hypo-allergenic, dust mite resistant • Washable on a wool cycle • It has no nasty chemicals • Totally sustainable, traceable and British made. Roger insists on a ‘Try it’ 60-day no quibble returns policy’ which just goes to show how much they believe in the quality of a Baavet. Visit: www.baavet.co.uk

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re su ea s. -m or to o e- t d ad en r m em ou lac p ith re

VE 0’s SA 0 0 £1

Denbighshire Antiques Creative Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms 1000ft showroom now open at Eagle’s Meadow, Wrexham • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Bedrooms • Kitchen Door Replacement • Fitted bedrooms designed • Deals on Matki shower enclosures • Quality Products • Quality Fitting • Quality Service • Independent & Local • Full Project Management • Electrics • Plastering • Plumbing • Gas • Tiling • Flooring • Building etc

‘We buy from one item of furniture to a whole houseful!’

Contact Paul Walker 01745 81 88 88 07774 64 63 63 4 Rhyl Road, Denbigh, Denbighshire, LL16 3DY Email: denbighshire@btconnect.com

Guardian Roof

Celebrating 23 years in the Business

Is this your conservatory? We have the solution... • No building regulations • Opening Roof Windows • Choice of colours and ﬁnishes • Reducing fuel costs • Thermally efﬁcent solid roof with u value of 0.16

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Call: 01978 696220 www.everbeyond.co.uk

Tel. 01691 773993

www.premierwindowsoswestry.co.uk Large Indoor Display Centre

Premier Windows & Conservatories Unit 5, Moreton Business Park, Gledrid, Nr Oswestry, Shrophire LL14 5DG Opening Times: Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday 10am - 2pm Chenery Enterprises Ltd - Company No. 7811251

Simply Breathtaking A BEAUTIFUL VENUE STANDING IN 12 ACRES OF EXQUISITE LANDSCAPED GARDENS, WITH POOLS, SPAS, LAKES & FOUNTAINS

Nestling in the fertile valley of La Acedia is a hidden gem If you're looking for family or friends holiday accommodation in Spain this luxury villa is the ideal venue for you. Book your luxury holiday villa in Spain and enjoy a holiday with family or friends in this large private secluded luxury villa standing in 12 acres of spectacular landscaped gardens This is a beautiful detached property with enormous living space, pool and 12 acres of landscaped gardens, with pool, outdoor hot tub (spa), 2 stone built barbeques, large lawns, lakes, fountains all spotlighted at night. Although just 15 minutes (5 miles) from the beach and town it is totally secluded in the fertile valley of La Acedia, making it the perfect Spanish, holiday getaway.The grounds are automatically watered every night ensuring lush surroundings all year round.

Tierra Buena

dishwasher and opens on to the rear courtyard with barbeque and large table, ideal for al fresco meals.

The area enjoys 300 days of sunshine annually and February 2012 has seen blue skies, sunshine, temperatures of 18C in the shade (24C in the sun) so it is a year round venue although charges are significantly cheaper outside of the traditional summer season.

The villa sleeps 12 adults (6 Bedrooms) plus a cot if required and is totally secluded with all 12 acres fully fenced with access through electric gates.Tierra Buena is the perfect safe and tranquil venue for a group of friends or families to share. It also has two brick built-in BBQs, one down by the lakes. If you have very young children gates around the villa can be closed to prevent them accessing pools and lakes without supervision.

Privately owned by an English couple Tierra Buena is located in Valle de Aceidia, midway between the coast and the historic white walled valley of Casares, and fitted out to luxury standards, with central heating and airconditioning throughout. A fully fitted kitchen has washing machine, tumble dryer and

A great, sized family pool and terraces for sunbathing/outside dining.There is also a hot tub and acres of lawns and landscaped gardens with lakes and fountains that are lit up at night, The photographs although spectacular cannot do it justice which makes this property a popular choice all year round.

www.luxuryspanishvillaholidays.co.uk

Ample exterior lighting for BBQ’s and midnight dips. It also features a wood burning central fireplace making it ideal for a winter vacation as it can get down to 6C on winter nights although there is full oil central heating throughout the open wood fire is still an attraction Tierra Buena and the grounds can be hired by the weekend or by the week and it is priced to reflect the current economic climate and varies according to times of the year. Outside catering is available on request if you wish to hold party or for weddings providing spectacular backdrops for your photos. There are three permanent English maintenance staff housed separately within the grounds all of whom speak English and Spanish with a good knowledge of the area and are on call at any time. We do recommend you book early especially for the summer season as the villa tends to get booked up very quickly. For more details on the villa and the facilities we can oﬀer plus a virtual tour visit www.luxuryspanishvillaholidays.co.uk/ tierra-buena to check availability of your required dates please click www.luxuryspanishvillaholidays.co.uk/ availability For any speciﬁc information or queries or to make a provisional booking please contact us by e-mail diane.greenhalgh@sercus.co.uk or sab@llangar.net

Certificate of excellence May 2011

e are a popular, family run, pub and restaurant based in the heart of Llandudno, in fabulous North Wales...

Real Ales • Home-made food • World Cuisine • Fine wines • Quiz night • Cask Beers • Cater for groups and large parties • Functions •

Book early to avoid disappointment. The Albert, 56 Madoc Street, Llandudno, Conwy LL30 2TW Telephone: 01492 877188 email: albertllandudno@aol.com Twitter: @albertllandudno Facebook: Search ‘The Albert’ Web: www.albertllandudno.co.uk

Dolforwyn Hall Country House Bed and Breakfast - Providing Holiday Accommodation in Mid Wales. Beneath Dolforwyn Castle, lies Dolforwyn Hall, situated just off the A483 between Newtown and Welshpool. With stunning views over Mid Wales and the borders you’ll also find a warm and friendly atmosphere and superb food coupled with local walks and places to explore. The perfect combination for a relaxing break. Enjoy at the hall... Superb location overlooking the scenic Severn Valley An Ideal base for exploring Mid-Wales and the Borders Close to The Severn Way and The Kerry Ridgeway Comfortable En-suite rooms • Delicious home-cooked food Hearty breakfasts • Winter Log Fires

Dolforwyn Hall Country House Abermule, Montgomery, Powys SY15 6JG. Tel: 01686 630221 www.dolforwyn.co.uk

The BrynTirion Inn

The Brigands Inn Hotel and Restaurant

Set in the heart of the Cambrian Mountains, The Brigands Inn is a 15th century coaching inn that serves excellent food and offers elegant accommodation with stunning views. Our cuisine is a mix of contemporary and classic Welsh using seasonal, local produce to create unforgettable meals for all occasions.

Warm Friendly Welcome Traditional family run Inn with homecooked food and real ales, a warm welcome and roaring fires. Function room available. Dogs welcome

We also won AA Pub of the Year for Wales in 2006/2007. Marvellous March Offers - 3 Night Specials! Premier double rooms, 3 nights for £200 reduced from £345 Standard rooms, 3 nights for £150 reduced from £285 Single occupancy, 3 nights for £120 reduced from £165 (Offer applies to both venues)

For more information visit

www.brigandsinn.com

01650 511999

or call us on: Mallwyd, Nr. Machynlleth, Powys SY20 9HJ

Set in stunning countryside, ideally suited for Snowdonia Perfect fo r Mother’s D an Easter ay or Break!

The Penrhos Arms Hotel and Restaurant

A traditional Welsh welcome awaits at the Penrhos Arms Hotel in the heart of Machynlleth. Enjoy a relaxing short break or overnight stay in one of our rooms all furnished to a high standard and with en-suite facilities. Dine in our homely restaurant and choose from a comprehensive menu that changes on a daily basis with local produce, meat, game and fish. Visit: www.penrhosarms.com or call:

01650 511243

Llandderfel, Bala, Gwynedd, LL23 7RA Tel: 01678 530205

Single? Single?

Ideal for the single individual, The Dinner Club Ideal foryou the to single The Dinner enables meetindividual, like-minded people in Club an enables you to social meet like-minded an enjoyable and atmosphere.people Regularinevents enjoyable social atmosphere. events range fromand black tie balls, dinner Regular dances, dining rangetheatre, from black balls, dances,abroad. dining out, day attiethe racesdinner to holidays out, theatre, at the racesby to aholidays abroad. Each event isday accompanied host to ensure Each event isruns accompanied the evening smoothly. by a host to ensure the evening runs smoothly. Our next black tie ball is on Saturday 21 April at Our next Hall blackHotel tie ball is on Saturday 21 April at Northop at 8.00pm accom available. Northop Hall Hotel at 8.00pm accom available. With lots of exciting events planned over the coming Withthere lots of exciting events planned over the coming year has never been a better time to join year Dinner there has never been a better time to join The Club. The Dinner Club. Tel: (01244) 677030 Evening and and weekend: weekend: (01244) (01244) 548816 677030 Evening

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FOOD TASTERS

d tasters

FOR SPRINGTIME FOODIE TREATS WE’VE GOT D.I.Y. EASTER EGGS, A LOCAL MASTERCHEF, TOP SEASONAL PRODUCE AND SUPERFOODS FOR HEALTH

Make your own Easter Eggs! Let’s be honest, making your own Easter egg is going to be more expensive, more time consuming and eggs-tremely messy! But, boy, is it great fun! WHAT YOU NEED Chocolate (this is entirely up to you – the higher the cocoa content the better) A pan Glass bowl or jug Spoon Egg moulds (available from craft shops) Icing pens Clear cellophane or roasting bags Ribbons

Top Ten Spring Supremes!

METHOD Mussels: catch them while you can because Sit the glass bowl or jug into a pan of boiling these lovely little crustaceans are on their way out of season. Try cooking them with some local water then add the chocolate slowly and allow cider rather than white wine as it gives them a to melt. It’s very important not to let any water get really nice tang. in with the chocolate. Wild Garlic: this curious leaf is particularly Pour a layer of melted chocolate into the egg pungent when growing and you will definitely smell it in the fields and hedgerows during March mould and place in the fridge for 10 to 15 and April. Use it like a salad leaf or as a garnish minutes until partially set. because it has a much milder flavour than cloves. Take out of the fridge, add another layer of Spring Lamb: on our estate at the Food Centre chocolate to the moulds. Stick the two halves we have over 2000 sheep and lambs, so spring is a busy time of year. Spring lamb is wonderfully together and put back in the fridge tender but don’t overcook it, make sure it has a until fully set. nice pink colour. Take out of the fridge and Proud of your Venison: game is on the way out in carefully peel away the March but it can be at its best. At the perfect eggs? Food Centre we prepare our own wild mould. Using an icing pen Why not send us a Venison from our estate. It is full of flavour pipe your message on the photo of your eg and very versatile making it great for gs and egg and allow to set one we’ll publish the everything from roasting to using it in w in ni ng last time. casseroles and stews. egg in the next issue of To package your egg, Peas: I love peas – fresh are best. If Yattar Yattar. Se you get them really fresh I encourage e page place it into a clear three for our you to eat the pods too because they are cellophane bag (roasting delicious. Whatever you do please don’t address bags work perfectly), add boil the life out them, 30 seconds is enough… a few mini eggs and tie Jersey Royals: not a local product but man are they good! There is nothing more with a ribbon.

2 3

indicative of spring than lamb with buttery Jersey Royals, fresh peas and mint sauce! Broad Beans: they are almost meaty and can be used in pretty much anything from salads to soups but are best as a side dish to grilled or roasted meats. Rhubarb: brilliant pink colour, fantastically zingy and tangy in flavour and great for making puddings with. Chefs are using it in all sorts these days but it’s difficult to beat a simple rhubarb crumble. Purple Sprouting Broccoli: a welcome change to root vegetables and in season from the beginning of March. Full of flavour and it’s a super food because it is full of all sorts of wonderful nutrients (such as phytochemical sulphoraphane) that help strengthen your heart and fight cancer. Asparagus: last but absolutely not least – if there is one vegetable to eat in spring make sure it’s this one. We only sell really local asparagus which means the season lasts just eight weeks.

Masterchef – meet the professional!

We spoke to Chris Conde, a local lad from Wrexham, and headchef at The Inn, Shrewsbury about his time recently as a contestant on the last series of Masterchef, The Professionals. Chris says: ‘Masterchef was tough. I went through so many emotions throughout my time on the show. It all started with a phone call from the producers, who said my audition dish had been good enough to take me through to interview process – I was elated, excited and a nervous wreck from that moment on! My favourite memory from Masterchef was cooking for the judges – comments such as: ‘You have taken a classic dish and made it better’ and ‘It doesn’t get much better than this’ from Michel Roux Jnr himself made me really happy. So much pressure was lifted from my shoulders after leaving the competition, but I was truly gutted I had left.’

8 9

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FOOD TASTERS

Farmer’s markets Broneirion Easter Food Fayre

Saturday 7th April, 2012

Broneirion, set in the heart of Mid Wales, is staging a Food Fayre on Saturday 7th April, 2012, the first event of this kind to be held at this picturesque location, positioned just above the River Severn. A wide variety of local food and drink producers have been invited to exhibit and sell Easter Food Fayre their wares at stands sited in the House and Grounds. l ns & Tasting.... Loca Cookery Demonstratio s.... Licensed Bar.... Cookery demonstrations and musical entertainment will Food & Drink Producer cal entertainment.... Refreshments.... Musi be taking place throughout the day, as well as children’s and much more.... th 2 201 Easter-themed activities including an Easter egg hunt, il, Apr 7 Saturday Easter bonnet competition and egg decorating. This is 10.00am – 5.00pm Easter ing Easter Egg Hunt, Childrens activities includ the ideal opportunity to sample and purchase locally Egg Decorating Bonnet Competition, Powys. SY17 5DE. Broneirion, Llandinam, produced, high quality and gourmet treats. There will be @broneirion.com admin Email: 4 Tel: 01686 68820 refreshments available, fully licensed bar and Broneirion shop. £3.50 entrance per adult or £5.00 per couple. Children under 16 are free. May I recommend you wear comfy trousers – your waist band is in for one bell(y) of a work out! Utterly delicious and not to be missed… call: 01686 688204 for more information.

BRONEIRION

NORTH WALES

✱ COLWYN BAY: Bay View Shopping Centre, Every Thursday of the month, Tel: 01492 680209 ✱ ANGLESEY: Ysgol David Hughes, Tel: 01248 490 213 ✱ CONWY: Conwy RSPB Reserve, last Wednesday of the month, Tel: 01492 584091

Entry £3.50 per adult

www.broneirion.com n under 16 free or £5.00 per couple/childre

SHROPSHIRE

✱ BISHOP'S CASTLE: Town Hall and Market Square, 3rd Saturday of the month, Tel: 01588 638141 ✱ LUDLOW: Castle Square 2nd and 4th Thursday, Tel: 01584 872043 ✱ OSWESTRY: Bailey Head, last Friday, Tel: 01691 680222 ✱ SHREWSBURY: The Square, 1st Friday, apart from September which is the 2nd Friday. Tel: 01743 792547 ✱ WHITCHURCH: Outside the Civic Centre, 1st Saturday of the month, Tel: 01948 665761

CHESHIRE

✱ CHESTER: Town Hall Square, 4th Saturday of the month, Tel: 01244 402340 ✱ WIRRAL: New Ferry Village Hall 2nd Saturday of the month, Tel: 0151 643 1393 ✱ MID WALES BRECON: Market Hall, 2nd Saturday of the month, Tel: 01982 560240 ✱ WELSHPOOL FARMERS MARKET AT COED-YDINAS: 1st Friday of each month

Super Foods Keeping up the diet is never easy; we all falter at some stage. So try to include these super foods in your daily routine as the beneﬁts are amazing!

Wholegrain Seeded Bread Personally I think this is the easiest and most pleasurable change you could make to your diet. If you’ve not tasted a warm, fresh seeded loaf, you are seriously missing out! Making this simple change can protect against heart disease, reduce hunger pangs and help with weight control due to its low glycaemic index (GI). It’s also packed with fibre which helps keep the tummy working efficiently.

Brazil Nuts All nuts are considered good for us in small quantities. They enrich the body with essential vitamins, minerals and fibre which help reduce heart disease and satisfy hunger urges. Brazil nuts in particular are little cancer fighting heroes due to their selenium content – good for our state of mind too!

Apples We all know one a day keeps the doctor away… but how? Well, apples are packed full of antioxidants, especially vitamin C for healthy skin and gums. One apple a day provides a quarter of your daily vitamin C requirements. They also help lower blood cholesterol and keep the digestive system healthy.

has a range of useful properties: it helps achieve your minimum two litre per day fluid intake. Also, findings in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition have found that tea, in all its many variations, contains a valuable antioxidant called catechins, which help protect the artery walls against the damage that causes heart disease and prevents the formation of sticky blood clots. TIP: try as many different varieties as you can and go easy on the milk and sugar – it’s not good for you!

Salmon Oily fish is one of the best (and not to mention tastiest) super foods you can eat. We’ve all heard of Omega 3, but what does it do? Omega 3 is considered a good fat, packed full of protein, vitamins and minerals. It helps reduce blood clotting and inflammation. Studies also show that eating oily fish such as salmon dramatically reduces the risk of having a heart attack, even in older adults. It also helps fight the effects of dementia and contains antioxidants. These protect cells in the body against damage from free radicals that can cause heart disease and cancer.

Tea The entire British empire was built on cups of tea and I’m sure a large percentage of us kick start our day with a nice cuppa! Tea

The worst thing you can put in your body is cola! Avoid at all costs and drink water.

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LEWIS’S FARM SHOP The home of real food - Eyton, Wrexham

• In house kitchen providing home made cakes and pies every day • • Beef and Lamb reared on our farm and butchered on site • • Other produce all local and high quality • • Free range chickens and eggs • • Large barbecue range • • Extensive Deli selection with many Welsh and English cheeses •

A family business that’s in our blood! 2009, 2010 & 2011 Wrexham sausage champions Traditional recipes in the good old fashioned way Lewis’s Farm Shop Brook Cottage, Eyton, Wrexham LL13 0SW Telephone: 01978 780852 Open Tuesday - Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday from 11am to 4pm.

THE NEW AGA TOTAL CONTROL COOKER With a programmable state-of-the-art touch-screen control panel and independently controllable hotplates and ovens, the new AGA Total Control cooker offers complete flexibility for 21st century living.

www.lewisfarmshop.co.uk

AGA Machynlleth 3 Heol Maengwyn, Machynlleth SY20 8AA 01654 703357

GARDEN, HOME & COUNTRY CENTRE 60,000 SQ FEET OF UNDERCOVER SHOPPING!

Spring Events

oed-y-dinas is a great day out. Off the A483, just south of Welshpool, opposite Powis Castle! CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR GARDEN FURNITURE & BBQ’S SHEDS, SUMMERHOUSES & GREENHOUSES CAMPING & ACCESSORIES OUTDOOR PLANTS & GARDENING INTERIOR FURNITURE & HOUSEWARES HAND & POWER TOOLS GIFTS, BOOKS & CRAFTS COOK SHOP PETS & AQUATICS EQUESTRIAN, SHOOTING & FISHING CHILDREN’S INDOOR PLAY BARN FOOD HALL

~ Once you have seen all of that, why not call into our 200 seat restaurant for a drink and a bite to eat!

OPENING TIMES

Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri & Sat 8.30am - 5.30pm Thurs 8.30am - 8pm, Sun 10am - 4pm

10th & 11th March Valuation Weekend Have you ever thought something you own may be valuable? Why not bring your item along to our valuation weekend and get it valued by our experts & Lawn Care Event Speak to representatives from leading brands! Get help and advice on maintaining a healthy lawn ~ st 31 March - 16th April Close encounters of an animal kind (12 noon) and Falconry display (2.30pm) ~ Easter Monday Children’s Easter hunt, duck race, Jack the story telling Jester, children’s chicken show and caricaturist (see our website for further details) ~ 10th April - 16th April See the Coed-y-dinas lambs being fed ~ 22nd & 29th April Hanging basket demonstrations These are just our main events; there is plenty in between, see our website for further details!

VOUCHER Receive a free hot drink when you spend over £2.25 on food in our restaurant

*One hot drink per voucher Voucher expires 31.07.12

Welshpool, Powys, SY21 8RP 01938 555 545 01938 555545

www.coedydinas.co.uk

Coed-y-dinas is part of Charlies Stores Ltd

HOTEL REVIEW RESTAURANT REVIEW

Ye Olde Anchor Inn W

In times gone by, Ye Olde Anchor was coaching house where weary travellers would alight to be welcomed by a roaring ﬁre and great home-cooked food... not much has changed!

e arrived on a cold February eve with rosy cheeks and bobble hats on; once through the ye olde doors we perched on the bar stools and ordered ourselves a stiff drink to warm the ye olde cockles! The cosy ambiance of the old coaching house still held true to its 18th century roots; old world charm is etched into every nook and cranny and the giant oak beams set the scene with rustic magnificence. To the right of the bar we found the lounge area, complete with open log fire and happy locals. The Anchor truly encapsulates the meaning of public house – locals and visitors inhabit the bar like old friends and the tempting smells which emanate from the kitchen are met with the scents of burning pine and oak from the open fire.

Ship shape

gleamed in reﬂective silence and the glint which touched every laid glass in the room enhanced further the cosy ambience. The food arrived. My chicken liver pâté was as tasty as the best I've had, coupled with a red onion chutney, ciabatta and side salad – you’d be right in saying I was one happy shipmate! My partner’s combi-platter consisted of crisp spring rolls, spicy samosas, breaded prawns (of which he only got to eat one, I don't know where the rest could have got to… ahem!) garlic mushrooms, garlic bread, garlic mayo and hoisin sauce for pure dipping pleasure. These were all consumed in a matter of minutes. 'Tasty?' I asked. 'Mmmm' was the only reply! With hunger restrained for the time-being, we ordered our mains (of which more later) and re-ﬁlled the glasses. I took this opportunity to steal into the galley and have a quick word with captain aka chef Kieran Jones. He said: ‘I’ve been working here since the beginning of the year and I absolutely love it. With my brother as my sous chef and my Dad a regular at the bar, I feel very much at home here at the Anchor. The best part of my job is being able to work with the managers to come up with our varied menu – I have a lot of creative freedom here and feel very much a valued member of the establishment; which in return enables me to be the best I can be for customers and staff alike. Oh and I highly recommend our sticky toffee pudding for desert – fresh out the oven this evening!’

‘I highly recommend our sticky toffee pudding – fresh out of the oven tonight!’

Ye Olde Anchor had found the seabed within my heart and the rumble in the tumble grew ever stronger. With the menus, ﬁve minutes passed in hungry silence and ﬁnally my dining partner and I were ready to order. The choices were many and varied – locally sourced, homecooked food covered every inch of the menu. The chef's freshly made chicken liver pâté had pipped the melting mozzarella and ratatoullie tart to the post and for my companion (who is no stranger to an all you can eat buffet) – the combi-platter to share. (Needless to say I’d be having a sample too.) Sherry tipple in hand we made our way to the Malthouse Restaurant. A spacious dining room opened out into a conservatory at the far end, giving views of the cobbled courtyard beyond. The room was positively ship-shape! Atmospheric low-lighting picked out features in the room; the climbing vines and tropical blooms that adorn the conservatory wall all

See-food spectacular With this in mind and hunger restored, I arrived back at my table to ﬁnd the Malthouse Mixed Grill awaiting my return. My eyes attempted to jump out of their sockets at the sight of this

massive meat feast! The chunky chips and home-made onion rings were a triumph – so much better than frozen. The steak, gammon, sausage, lamb chop, black pudding and vegetables were all cooked to perfection (somebody had eyes bigger than one’s belly) and I was defeated. My partner opted for the BBQ Chicken Melt and once again uttered various sounds of approval until the last morsel had been devoured. The eating was over, the night was drawing to a close and we were happy. We had eaten well at ridiculously reasonable prices, in a warm and welcoming atmosphere – and me hearty and I had found a lovely new watering hole. Oh and just so you know – Kieran was right, the sticky toffee pudding was exactly as nature intended. Moist and gooey in the middle with a sticky nutty crust and for the chocolate fudge pudding – a very loud ‘Mmmm!’ y

THE BIL L

Chicken Live Pate £3.9 r 5 Co mbi P latter £6.95 Maltho u se Mixe d G rill £12.95 BBQ Chic ken Melt £7. 95 (picture d is the Th e Stallio n Burger) Sticky To ffee Pu d ding £2.9 Chocolate 5 Fu dge C ake £2.9 5

Ye Olde Anchor Inn, Rhos Street, Ruthin, Denbighshire, LL15 1DY Tel: 01824 702 813 Web: www.anchorinn.co.uk

78 yattaryattar magazine Spring 2012

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24/02/2012 12:23

Colourmebeautiful Dress for success & Make-overs with Mac Tompsett

The right clothing for everyday and that special occasion

Choose from • A colour class - discover which shades bring out the best in you. • A style Consultation - Learn about your body lines, scale and style personality PLUS How to flatter your figure. • A beauty workshop - A master class in make up for your different moods and occasions.

THE PERFECT PRESENT - Gift vouchers available. For an appointment which could change your life! Contact: Mac Tompsett Westwood House, Vicarage lane, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8US Tel/Fax: 01978 852816

Evans Hotel Reception: 01492 860784

A warm welcome awaits you at our family run hotel. The Evans is situated on the level, in a quite position near to the centre of Llandudno, only minutes away from all the ammenities of the Town and approximately 400 yards from the promenade.

Is proud to launch a new range of garments made up in our fabrics woven on site. Welsh tapestry coats, capes and waistcoats; tweed coats, waistcoats, skirts; brushed tapesty duffle coats. All in pure wool, some with velvet trims and matching velvet skirts. Available only in our shop from Friday March 16th.

Evans Hotel Charlton Street, Llandudno, Conwy, LL30 2AA,

SPECIAL OFFER! Any 4 Nights Half Board Only

£225 Per Person!

Trefriw Woollen Mills, Main Road, Trefriw, Conwy Valley LL27 0NQ Tel: 01492 640462

www.t-w-m.co.uk

FASHION

Fl wer Culture Clash Per Una Speziale dress £69, belt £7.50, Marks and Spencer

Print Pleat One Shoulder Dress £57, www.littlewoods.com

Flower Print Shift Dress, £69.00 Marks & Spencer

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Geri by Next Floral Palazzo Trousers, £45.00 Next 0844 844 8000

P wer

Splash out on the latest bright ﬂower prints this Spring Per Una Dress £75, Shoes £49.50 Marks & Spencer

Floral Print Tunic £55 www.littlewoods.com

Fearne Cotton One Shoulder Corsage Dress £59 Very.co.uk

WE LOVE Blossom Print Shift Dress £129, CC (formerly Country Casuals) ccfashion.co.uk

Top £14, Bag £14 and Shoes £14 by F&F. Skirt £25 by F&F Limited Edition. 0800 505555 www.tesco.com

Everything is coming up roses for Spring 2012 fashion – orchids, daffodils and daisies, we’re seeing floral prints from head to toe! F&F Shoes £22 F&F at Tesco 0800 505555

Alice Agora Shrug £45, Carnaby Printed Dress, £95 Monsoon 08448110068 F&F Bag £10 F&F at Tesco

White & Yellow Floral Printed Pencil Skirt, £20 Sainsbury’s TU Clothing 0800 63 62 62

Spring 2012 yattaryattar magazine 81

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23/02/2012 18:15

HOLIDAY COTTAGE

Nefyn - Nr. Pwllheli - Ll天n Peninsula - North Wales. Character cottage -wonderful sea views & sunsets.

Set within large grounds -short walk to beach & Nefyn.

Sleeps 7 - Fully furnished to high standard Contact: Norma Price Tel : 01978 269119 Mobile : 07952302598 Email: normaprice3@hotmail.co.uk

New memorials Commemorative plaques 200 stones on display Pet memorials Renovations

Modern & traditional

Hand etched designs Paving & chippings Stone ornaments Stone furniture House names

memorials made with care.

Denbigh 01745 815770 www.morrisgranite.co.uk

Colwyn Bay 01492 530655

Rhyl 01745 331792

Our total body workout combines strength-training and cardio so you can burn up to 500 calories every workout. With our trainers here to give you total support, you’re sure to reach your fitness goals. Four million women around the world have already discovered the Curves difference.

FREE WEEK WITH THIS ADVERT *Not valid with any other offer. Valid at Curves Wrexham and Curves Buckley only. One free week per person. Non-members only.

Kiera Knightley says she is so lucky to be working with two of Hollywood’s leading men – Michael Fassbender and Viggo Mortenson

Angela Jay-

Featureﬂash / Shutterstock.com

Burn up to 500 calories in 30 minutes? Believe it!

what the celebrities say!

Curves Wrexham Borras Park Road Wrexham LL12 7TG 01978 357711

Curves Buckley 25b Brunswick Road Buckley Flintshire CH7 2ED 01244 550033

One to One Beauty Studio Permanent Make-up Available!

Now you can make a lasting difference in your appearence simply and safely

Eyebrows, Eyeliner, Lips, Skin repigmentation, Eyebrow reconstruction, Eyeliner, Eyelash enhancement, Lipliner and Beauty spots Other Treatments Offered • Wedding make-up packages • Facial Treatments • Make-up Sessions • Massage • Thread Vein Removal • Manicure • Sunless Tanning Treatments • Electrolysis • Hair Removal • Skin tag removal • Reiki Healing Sessions

2 Church Street, Tremadog, Gwynedd LL49 9RA Tel: 01766 514422

83 Angela Jay.indd 83

Angela Smith B.A.B.T.A.C. C.I.B.T.A.C. www.onetoonebeautystudio.com

SHE HAS QUITE LITERALLY WON THE ‘HEARTS’ OF MANY A RADIO LISTENER AT HEART FM; PUTTING THE RISE AND SHINE IN BREAKFAST TIME RADIO. WITH CELEBRITY ENCOUNTERS, SHOW-BIZ NEWS AND A BACK-STAGE PASS INTO THE WORLD OF CELEBRITY, ANGELA JAY’S COLUMN PROMISES TO BRIGHTEN UP YOUR DAY!

ell I am so pleased that January is over and Spring is upon us at long last. The lighter nights, the warmer weather, oh and the Queens jubilee with an extra two days off work - fantastic! As always a hectic start to the year, I have been busy organising our ‘Have a Heart appeal’ charity dinner in aid of Childline, helping to keep their office in Prestatyn running. If you fancy coming it’s on the 9th March at Hilton’s Doubletree Hotel, tickets can be bought for just £30 and include a three-course dinner and entertainment, from www.heart.co.uk/wrexham – click on Spence and Angela’s big kids party. Hypnotist Paul McKenna (used to always watch him on the tele making people do silly things!) called in for a chat recently, and yes – he did have a book to plug! Its out now: You’re Smarter Than You Think! ‘Really? Am I?’ I asked, ‘so I can be a prime minister then!’ The book promises to increase your intelligence as you read; have exam confidence, improve concentration, access your creative genius, make smarter decisions and much, much more! Personally I’m sold, just the small inconvienience of finding the time to read it now – but I will, don’t you worry Paul, you’ll make a PM out of me yet! I have finally done it – yes, signed up for the Chester half marathon (I must be nuts, I am no good at exercising and I hate running!) I really have to get my butt into gear! Naturally I asked Paul McKenna to give me a few motivational tips. He told me to think of something I love – that’s easy, chocolate… then he told me to hold my middle finger and thumb tips together and think about that ‘love of chocolate’ (you can try this at home – think of anything you love) and then try adopting that love to a love of (in my case) running and a ‘want to go running’ mentality. I have to be honest here (I am still trying, but I think it makes me want chocolate biscuits more because I am constantly thinking about them!). Also caught up with Kiera Knightley and talked about her new film A Dangerous Method, she said she was ‘very very lucky’ to be working with not one but two of Hollywood’s leading men; Michael Fassbender and Lord of the Rings star Viggo Mortensen… Kiera told us her money is on George Clooney for an Oscar this year for his role in The Descendents and she promised as yet she has no plans to swap the UK for LA.

la xx e g n A s e s is k d love an Spring 2012 yattaryattar magazine 83

23/02/2012 18:18

R E D R BO TIES COUNSCHOOL OF

s e l a W North Tuition Musicntres Ce Est: 198

GYMNASTICS

Registered Charity No.1094056

1-2-1 LESSONS with North Wales’ leading Music Tuition

Charity on Most Instruments incl. Drumkit, Singing (all styles) & Music Theatre.

ALL AGES & LEVELS IN EXCELLENT, WELL-EQUIPPED TUITION CENTRES AT

QUEENSFERRY, COLWYN BAY, RHUDDLAN, WREXHAM Coming soon to the BANGOR area

• Tutors: Qualified, experienced and friendly. (All tutors CRB checked) • Exams (optional) QCA approved exams offered and sat at our own tuition centres. All grades and diplomas

• • • • • •

Parent & Child Gymnastics Pre-School Gymnastics Recreational Gymnastics Competition Gymnastics Trampolining • Cheer Tots Hoola nation hoola hoop classes!

All sessions are delivered by British Gymnastics qualiﬁed, insured & CRB checked coaches.

• Performance Opportunities

• FREE instrument loan facility • Child protection policy - commended by social services • Multi-lesson/ Family DISCOUNT • Adult beginners welcome

Online application at: www.northwalesmusictuition.co.uk

Club Mark / Gym Mark accredited

Call us 01691 658048 or e-mail bordercountiessg@aol.com to arrange a trial session.

Email: info@northwalesmusictuition.co.uk

TEL: 0845 310 5374

Afﬁliated to

(LOCAL RATE)

Everything you need

to get your garden looking its best this Spring! £3.99

£4.49 each

£19.99 each

4 for £12

Durstons Compost 60ltr

3 for £10 Tomorite Giant Gro Bag with Seaweed

They are sold as a set of 3 (1 large & 2 small planters)

25(W) x 90(D) x 33(H)cm

BUY 3 Fence

£44.99

2 for £32 Evergreen Complete 400sqm

Size: 160cm (W) x 93cm (H) x 66cm (D)

£119.99

AT Life ONE CO & GET A BIG

BRUSH FREE

Ronseal Fence Life

25(W) x 39(D) x 33(H) cm Made in the UK

Planter Set

Somerset 3 Seater Bench (Tanalised)

Plus plenty more garden offers in store! For store locations visit www.wynnstay.co.uk All printed prices are inclusive of VAT unless otherwise stated. Offers end 30th April 2012 subject to availability. Some products may only be stocked in larger stores, please check before travelling. Products may vary to illustration and Wynnstay reserve the right to withdraw offers or change prices at any time. E. & O.E.

KID’S CORNER

School of the Sea

North Wales Watersports, based in Port Dinorwic, Gwynedd, specialises in outward bound and waterbased activities. Port Dinorwic is a natural paradise for sailing, power-boating, canoeing, fishing, jet-skiing, diving, windsurfing and many other activities. This year North Wales Watersports encourages marine education to enter the nation curriculum and as a result has set up a programme called Ysgol y Môr (School of the Sea). Joint owner, Stuart Gibson says: ‘Ysgol y Môr is the first multi-school programme in the UK to integrate the sea into education, opening up the coastal environment, recreation and marine industries to the young people of North Wales. Now teachers can bring their subjects alive with an approach which gives children unique insight into the coastal environment and the future career paths within it. Our coastline is home to some of the best natural marine leisure, training and educational infrastructure in the UK. Their potential to enhance the lives of local people – and the regional economy – is yet to be fully realised. Ysgol y Môr is designed for school children between the ages of 8 and 14 years and offers something for every school child, regardless of background and abilities. It is also flexible enough to ensure that a school can adopt any element of Ysgol y Môr, in a format which works for the school. It combines a set of unique practical challenges and classroom work to enable teachers to deliver a broad range of subjects and skills. Maths, the sciences, history, geography and art are key subjects which are delivered through the programme. The hands-on activities also ensure children develop transferrable skills such as leadership, communication, teamwork, resourcefulness and problem solving. Teacher and pupil packs, supplementary resources and equipment are available to guide teachers and children during the activity day and in the classroom.’ For more information visit the ysgol y Mor website at: www.ysgolymor.com or North Wales Watersports is at www.northwaleswatersports.com

M&S Indigo T-shirt from £3.50, www.marksandspencer.com

Ladybird Zoo Pack Backpack, £20.95, 01234 766094, www.peanutandpip.com

Bluezoo Top £18 Jeans £20, Debenhams, 08445616161

Kid’s corner School lessons on the beach, and learning an instrument Outdoor Floral Wigwam, £79.99, 01642 763000, www.giftedpenguin.co.uk Binoculars, £8, Early Learning Centre, www.elc.co.uk

Get out and about in the garden this ur spring with yo ! rs e g little dig

Pirate Wellies £9, Sainsbury’s TU Clothing, 0800 63 62 62

T-shirt from £6 by F&F, 0800 505555 www.tesco. com

Wheelbarrow, £14, Early Learning Centre www.elc.co.uk

Music Tuition

The best and most rewarding discipline any child could hope to master is learning a musical instrument. North Wales Music Tuition Centres (NWMTC) has centres across North Wales and they offer anybody the chance to become a talented musician. Chief executive, Brenda Newton says: ‘Enrolling for music lessons with NWMTC couldn’t be easier. You don’t even need your own instrument. We have violins, guitars, ﬂutes, trumpets, saxaphones and keyboards all available on loan ‘free-of-charge’ for the trial period. And with our multi-member discount scheme, why not enrol more family members and take advantage of the savings – you can show up mum and dad this way too! All pupils are encouraged to take part in concerts from an early age; ﬁve years and upwards, so it’s not all about exams – music is all about fun too.’ If a little more quality time is what you and your family desire, here would be a very good place to start – nothing is more impressive than listening to accomplished musician on their instrument of choice. Start your journey today! Visit www. northwales musictuition. co.uk and complete the application form or ring Brenda on 0845 310 5374

Spring 2012 yattaryattar magazine 85

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23/02/2012 18:23

Homeopathy Explained

Health&

beauty

Make your own skin creams, spoil yourself with a beauty treatment or try homeopathy!

One to One Beauty

Situated in the quaint village of Tremadog you’ll find a cosy little beauty boutique called One to One Beauty. Cazz Jones went to try the treatments and says: ‘I was met with a steamy cup of coffee from owner Angela Smith and was over-whelmed by the sweet aromatic smells which infused the treatment room. Angela made me feel instantly relaxed and before I knew it I was on the couch having an Aromatherapy Facial that felt like no other I’ve had! With tranquil tunes playing in the background and lemon steam awakening my senses, I had been taken to a world of relaxation within a matter of minutes.’ Angela describes herself as a qualified Aesthetician, which defines a Beautician, Beauty Therapist and Electrologist or to put another way – Angela is highly skilled and you can rest assured that you’re in very good hands. With past jobs at Clarins, Lancome, Christian Dior and Mavala and early training which began at Harley Street, London, clients of Angela’s are very lucky to have such a skilled specialist so close to home. One to One also offers a range of specialised treatments such as thread vein removal, ear piercing and semi-permanent make-up. Angela says: ‘This is like tattooing only in a cosmetic form to provide eye-liner, lip liner, beauty spots and eyebrows, making life much easier for ladies with contact lenses, sensitivity to cosmetics or simply for those of you who just wish to wake-up and be ready for the day!’ A beauty therapy treatment isn’t just a means to make you look and feel at your best, it’s also very good for attaining a meditative state which clears not only spots and skin problems, but mind body and soul too. Call: 01766 514422 or visit: www.onetoonebeautystudio.com

SIR PAUL MCCARTNEY SWEARS BY IT, DAVID BECKHAM OPENLY PROMOTES IT AND EVEN THE ROYAL FAMILY USE IT IN THEIR DAILY ROUTINES – BUT WHAT IS IT? BY DAWN KNOX ‘Homeopathy is a safe, effective alternative to drug treatment recognised by the World Health Organisation as the second largest therapeutic system in use in the world. Generally speaking it works on the principle that ‘like cures like’ (also known as the Law of Similars). The remedies act as an energetic stimulus to the individual’s natural in-built healing ability – the individually tailored remedy provokes the system to ﬁght back with a healing response. The name homeopathy derives from the Greek and literally means ‘similar suffering’. The technical name for conventional medicine is allopathy, meaning ‘opposite suffering.’ Some examples of medicines which oppose the body's efforts to heal itself are anti-biotics, anti-inﬂammatories, anti-histamines and beta-blockers. They can relieve symptoms, but they do not address the cause. To a homeopath, symptoms are 'friends' rather than enemies because they show that the system is in distress. When read correctly, and understood, they can lead to the real root cause of the problem which has to be addressed for any hope of a lasting cure. Sir Paul McCartney says: ‘I can't manage without Homeopathy, in fact, I never go anywhere without homeopathic remedies and I often make use of them.’ Also an avid user and believer in the natural remedy is Mahatma Gandhi, who says: ‘Homoepathy… cures a larger percentage of cases than any other method of treatment and is beyond doubt safer and more economical and the most complete medical science.’ If you would like to know more about this effective and fascinating system, which can potentially help any condition, or are interested in attending a ‘First Aid’ course that will enable you to use homeopathic remedies to treat common every day conditions please ring Dawn Knox on 01978 269017.

To win a fantastic beauty treatments prize worth £500, turn to our great competitions on page 102

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Put the s in you pring r skin!

Simple Sleep

Resident hypnotherapist, Alan Wick is here to help the nation of sleepdeprived. You know it WE’RE JUST ABOUT well; you put yourself to WAVING GOOD-BYE bed, have a little read and TO A LONG AND COLD then… nothing or should WINTER. IT WOULD I say everything – every last little thought, BE FAIR TO SAY THAT memory, worry or dread comes coursing OUR BODIES HAVE through the mind! Here’s a few wise words TAKEN A BIT OF A from Alan to help you… BEATING OVER THAT Alan says: ‘Are you waking in the dead LAST FEW MONTHS; THE of night, do you find yourself churning over EXTRA POUNDS OVER all of your problems, or any combination of CHRISTMAS, THE LACK these? If so, you’ll know that insomnia can be OF EXERCISE DUE TO exhausting and debilitating. Sleep, through our dreams, has a vital role to play, effectively THE WEATHER, AND THE processing the challenging, different and CONSTANT CHANGE stressful aspects of our lives. FROM FREEZING COLD ‘Insomnia can impact on our work and TO ROASTY WARM personal lives, and we become demotivated HAS PLAYED ABSOLUTE and disinterested in our lives. Loved ones HAVOC ON OUR SKIN! can bear the brunt of our fatigue as we FEAR NOT… THE D.I.Y. become snappy due to frustration. Work SKIN REMEDIES HAVE performance suffers, anger can be close by, ARRIVED! even away from the family (maybe when driving) or perhaps you experience the opposite of temper – tearfulness that comes ❋ Kiwi Krush Facial Cleansing Cream – for soft and supple skin in at the end of your tether. an instant ‘The good news is that you can come along Ingredients:1 kiwi peeled; take the pulp only, 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt, 1 for a free consultation with me at Positive tablespoon of almond oil, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon of finely ground almonds. Hypnotherapy, and find out how quickly Method: mix all the above items together in a food processor. The end result should be you can be experiencing improvements in your sleep pattern. Sleep is an area where I a thick creamy substance. Apply to face and neck (all over if desired) and leave for 5 – experience particularly high levels of success. 10 minutes. Remove with fingers or flannel in a circular motion and then wash your face ‘Using a CD every night, combined with with plenty of water – I think you’ll agree, beautifully soft and very supple indeed… live sessions, means sleep can be achieved these natural remedies are such a treat! naturally, and the combination of both will get you working towards a ‘problem solving’ ❋ Cool cucumber and honey toner – for tight, firm skin frame of mind, allowing you to examine your Ingredients: 1 medium cucumber peeled and grated, 2 teaspoons of honey life, consciously and unconsciously, enabling Method: blend ingredients for two minutes. Pass through a sieve and pour the mixture in you to recognise where change is needed, and to go ahead and make those a bottle. Dab a cotton ball in the mixture and get toning! Cucumber is the best natural changes, allowing the toner given by mother nature and honey the best source of moisturiser. This can be stress to leave your frozen and used later. life naturally. Your For more body and brain information ❋ Youth Infusion – chocolate, banana and honey know how to go to or a FREE consultation anti-aging face mask sleep, and they are waiting patiently Ingredients: 1 tablespoon of raw chocolate; powdered, 1 ripe banana; mashed, visit: www.positive for you to simply Few drops of rose essential oil, 1 tablespoon of honey hypnotherapy.net or stop trying, so that Method: Mash the banana in a bowl. Add the remaining ingredients and mix call Alan on: they can take over!’ until smooth. Apply to face and neck and leave for thirty minutes. Wash off with

01244 458676

cool water and enjoy the compliments! Banana is known for its strong anti-aging properties. Chocolate also helps the skin in retaining collagen, the ingredient which makes the skin appear youthful.

❋ Pucker up – Basic lip balm recipe Ingredients: 1/2 ounce of beeswax, 4 ounces of almond oil (preferably sweet almond oil), 1 teaspoon jojoba beads, a few drops of essential oil of your choice Method: place the almond oil and beeswax in a microwavable bowl and heat until melted. Stir in the other ingredients (may I suggest a peppermint essence – it’s minty fresh!) pour into a clean jar and cool. It’s now ready to soothe and plump those winter withered lips of yours; now you have no excuse to let them get chapped again… You’re welcome!

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Healing Thyme

Hay Fever – prevention is better than cure! A misery for many, it is described as seasonal allergic rhinitis and is characterised by nasal irritation, sneezing and a runny nose; others have itching of the eyes and the roof of the mouth. It generally starts with tree pollen in March and April, grass pollens in the middle and finishes with mould spores in September and October. The majority of sufferers will experience symptoms in May-July, coinciding with exams for adolescents. Preparation is essential; start in early March to strengthen the immune system and the mucus membranes. This enables the body to deal more efficiently with the onslaught of pollen and increases the effectiveness of the herbs used to manage symptoms. How does one prepare for hayfever? Eat a diet rich in flavonoids and Vitamin C. You may want to supplement a good diet with Vitamin C, Zinc and Vitamin D. My herbal preparations would include Echinacea and Plantago. Spring Cleanse The tradition of a spring cleanse goes with the appearance of the young green shoots. It is less of an issue these days with the year-long availability of fresh green salads and vegetables but was a crucial time when living by the seasons. After a winter of root vegetables and warming, heavier food (essential to maintain heat in the body) the spring is a time of young green leaves including dandelion, nettle, rocket and many more. The bitter young leaves like rocket and dandelion stimulate the liver and the production of bile, which in turn promotes activity in the digestive tract; while dandelion leaf helps to drain fluid; thus the idea of cleansing. The young greens are bursting with iron, flavonoids and Vitamin C which naturally revitalise the body. Gardener’s Back As the days lengthen we experience those early days out in the garden – when we all do too much all at once! A long soak in a hot bath with plenty of magnesium salts will help to ease the muscle pain, while a good back rub with Arnica oil will generally ease the worst of the aches. Gardeners – check out Alison’s blog on www.healing-thyme.co.uk Joint Pain – Osteoarthritis Chronic pain from osteoarthritis (OA) is a feature of wear and tear to the protective capsule around the joints. Diet and lifestyle are contributory factors and play a part in both prevention and management. There are many herbs used both internally and externally to help relieve pain. Some will improve blood flow to the joint, while others will help to improve the lubrication of the joint. In all chronic states the overall health of the person is more important in a management plan than the disease itself. The medical herbalist will always look at the whole person. Nettle tea is a firm favourite for OA. While nettles are young and in season try making nettle soup, or add nettle tops to stews. They are full of iron and minerals. Add some grated root ginger which is not only warming but aids blood flow. Include plenty of oily fish in your diet for the Omega 3 properties which have an anti-inflammatory action or consider a fish oil supplement. Recent research has also suggested that more of us are deficient in Vitamin D than previously realised. We just don’t get enough sun in this country to make the levels that we need. Situated in the lovely old market town of Whitchurch in North Shropshire, Healing Thyme is a centre of excellence for integrated health practice. They provide choice in holistic healthcare through qualified practitioners and a high-quality range of health-related supplements and products. Address: 29 High Street, Whitchurch, Shropshire SY13 1AZ

Natural skin care – locally made from goat’s milk! When researching new skincare products, we discovered a local Shropshire firm making hand cream from goat’s milk – so we had to try it – and we were pleased to discover it is fantastic for dry, chapped hands and is a lovely moisturising cream, not oily at all, with a beautiful fragrance –not of goats! We spoke to the founder Hazel who explained: ‘This family run business was established in 1985 by my parents and I. My mother suffered from psoriasis and found, whilst milking the family goats, that spraying a little of the milk on the affected area helped dramatically to smooth and speed up the healing of her irritated skin.’ ‘The first product the family developed therefore was Goat's Milk Moisturising Cream, which has helped thousands of people worldwide with eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and dry sensitive skin. Family research and development also found the benefits of honey in skincare products and this inspired us to make a honey range which includes a rich hand cream for gardeners and people who work with their hands.’ ‘Word spread and soon people began to ask for our ‘famous’ gardener's hand cream. So in the 1990s we called it our Famous Gardener's Handcream! We still make all the original products and many more by hand to the traditional closely guarded secret recipes using the minimum of equipment. We are now located on the Shropshire/Cheshire border in rural England, where we have adopted a green policy, we also sell our Elegance Natural Skin Care range from our shop.’ Available at www.natural-skin-care.com

Wooly Wonders

2012 is the year of the ‘Wooly Wonders’. For those of you who are wondering what will be the next black – the answer is quite simply – baa baa ‘black’ sheep! Trefriw Woollen Mills has already cottoned on to this trend and are selling some fabulous wooly wonders in store from the 16th March onwards. The new designs will all be 100% pure wool available in six colourways sizes 12 – 18. To mark this event the woollen mill will be show-casing the ‘how to’ process by means of live ‘Tweeds and Tapestries’ demonstration from 11am on the 16th March. For your chance to pick up the latest trends and see the craftsmen in action visit the Trefriw Woollen Mill in the Conwy Valley and have yourselves a baa-rilliant day out! Visit: www.t-w-m. co.uk for more information.

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Our care centres

Making life easier

Whitchurch, Greenfields nursing home Tel: 01948 661040 Oswestry, Fairholme care home 01691 653499 Market Drayton, Woodcroft care home 01630 657486 Wem, Westlands care home 01939 232784 Shrewsbury, Coton Hill House care home 01743 235788 Shrewsbury, Briarfields care home 01743 353374 Wellington, Farcroft care home 01952 223447 Donnington, Barclay Gardens care home 01952 605321 Care at Home centre 01952 608682 Newport, The Cottage nursing home 01952 825557 Telford, Lightmoor View nursing home 01952 432412 Telford, Chillcott Gardens extra care 01952 587439 Bridgnorth, Innage Grange nursing home 01746 762112 Bishopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Castle, Stone House care home 01588 638487

Coverage Care is a not for profit organisation reinvesting its resources to provide a range of the highest quality care services in Shropshire. We look after people in their own homes and in our homes, with nursing care for those with more complex care needs. Please contact your nearest home for further information or speak to one of our care advisers on 01743 283200.

making life easier

Collina House, Oxon Business Park, Shrewsbury, SY3 5HJ Tel: 01743 283200 Web: www.coveragecareservices.co.uk

Toned Within ltd

toned within laser and aesthetic clinic registered with the health inspectorate of wales

both lynton and lumenis lasers offer the latest medical treatments for: hair removal facial and leg vein removal rosacea tattoo removal birth marks pigmentation skin rejuvenation anti ageing injections dermal rollers chemical peels medical microdermabrasion also colonic hydrotherapy to help with detox, weight loss, ibs and the latest in teeth whitening technology.

book for your free consultations. Andrea 07764 935 413 / 01492 871 155 consultation rooms available for healthcare professionals/therapists.

HEALTH

How to provide the best care for our elderly

PIP breast implants: ‘The Verdict’ FOLLOWING THE FURORE OVER PIP BREAST IMPLANTS AND CONCERNS OVER PATIENT WELLBEING AND PEACE OF MIND, WE WENT TO TALK TO CONSULTANT COSMETIC SURGEON AT SPIRE YALE HOSPITAL IN WREXHAM, MR FS FAHMY TO FIND OUT MORE.

WE MET WITH THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF COVERAGE CARE DAVID COULL, WHO EXPLAINS WHY IT IS IMPORTANT TO FIND OUT EXACTLY WHAT A CARE HOME IS SET UP TO MANAGE WHEN YOU ARE HELPING AN ELDERLY RELATIVE FIND THE BEST RESIDENTIAL CARE HOME FOR THEM We met at Greenfields in Whitchurch, which is a nursing home set up to provide nursing care for older people and those with special needs like dementia. David explains: ‘Some of our homes, for example this one, provide nursing care in addition to residential care. We also cater for those with dementia. This means we pay particular attention to their needs. The design of the building makes sure there are no sudden changes in floor colours or levels, and we use very clear signing to make the environment comfortable and safe for residents with dementia. We also ensure that staff are more highly trained to support dementia sufferers, and we work with the Alzheimer’s Society and run an RCN-accredited training course.’ This sounds like very particular care is being taken – have we seen advances in care quality in recent years? David says: ‘Yes – things have changed enormously in the last 20 years – back in the eighties some homes in Shropshire still had shared rooms and dormitories, today no one should have to share rooms. We’re looking after people who would previously have been in a long-stay community hospital, and we work with outreach NHS consultants who work with us and help advise our resident’s own GPs. ‘The new home we are currently building in Oswestry is replacing Fairholme, and is a much larger facility. The rooms are going to be fully ensuited with multi-provision care – which means residents can stay in the same home even if their care needs become greater, which is a great peace of mind. ‘Coverage Care is a not for profit business – any surplus is reinvested into the business, and we have 97% occupancy across all our homes in Shropshire – so we must be doing something right! The absolutely best way for new clients to assess a care home is to visit.’ We’re hearing on the news that costs will increase, so should we be concerned? David says: ‘Care and care homes do vary and therefore costs. But in our case every penny is spent on care – we are not-for-profit, a pre-requisite when we started in 1995 by taking the transfer of the then Shropshire Council care homes. We are not, in my opinion, as a nation very well educated about care choices and the costs involved in care. It is important for people to understand that at present if your needs are not critical or substantial, and you have more than £23,000 of assets (including the value of your home), then you will have to pay for residential care, which if combined with nursing care can be over £700 per week. There is, of course, a range of sources of funding that individuals can apply for but it is always best to take financial advice.’

WHO SHOULD I TALK TO? Mr Fahmy says: ‘Consultants choose the prostheses they want to use at Spire Yale hospital, and I have never used PIP implants. In fact, there are only two or three of the most reputable companies worldwide that we use, and after twenty years of experience I have faith in using these brands. The companies involved have a great reputation and keep on developing their products, and are well thought of worldwide, so it’s important if you are thinking about having breast enhancement surgery to discuss this with your surgeon. ‘If anyone is worried that they may have PIP implants, the best thing they can do is contact the hospital where they had the procedure, or their surgeon. There is no way to tell by scans or tests which kind of implant patients have. Surgery to remove or replace the implants would give an indication of the make, type and size of the implant; you have, assuming the implant is intact and not ruptured at the time of your surgery. In fact, the uncertainty of the implants used abroad and the importance of being able to access patient records are other reasons why surgery abroad is far from ideal.’ Even locally in the UK, always seek advice from reputable hospitals and suitably qualiﬁed surgeon. My web site www.cosmeticplastic.co.uk, would provide guidance on this matter.

Did you know? Lemons contain more sugar than strawberries

CAN IMPLANTS BE REPLACED? Mr Fahmy says: ‘You cannot always tell if an implant has ruptured by external checking, sometimes we need to use ultrasound or MRI. And yes, if a patient is worried about their implants they can nearly always have them replaced. In line with the national recommendations, we can maintain that service at affordable prices and have interest-free loans available.’ Contact Spire Yale on (01978) 262 462 to ﬁnd out more, or email: info@spireyale.com

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EALI

NG T

HY M

Positive Hypnotherapy Change what you’re doing.... and set yourself free! Sympathetic, respectful, Solution Focused Hypnotherapy which is none-intrusive and effective. Available in Chester, Wrexham, Oswestry and Nantwich.

Helps to aid sleep Supports weight loss Helps to stop smoking Helps with relaxation Promotes conception Soothes stress Helps with fears We also produce relaxation and hypnosis CD’s and downloads, as well as a national telephone therapy service.

Healing Thyme offers complementary therapies from our centre in Whitchurch High Street. Herbal Medicine Acupuncture Aromatherapy Bach Flower Remedies Hypnotherapy

Osteopathy Psychotherapy Reﬂexology Reiki Remedial Massage

Tel: 01948 665565 Web: www.healing-thyme.co.uk

Speak to Alan Wick on: 01244 458676 or visit: www.positivehypnotherapy.net for more information.

Anita Louise Rushton & Associates Private Counselling Psychotherapy

Homeopathy

“We Believe your mental health is as vital as your physical well being ...” 1 in 4 of us will experience some sort of mental health issue during our lives. We've got expert advice and professional support to help you cope with the challenges you're facing.

For further information or to book an appointment Contact us on: Wrexham: 01978 846 081 Chester: 01244 680 214 Mobile: 07912 609 674 Email: info@anitalouiserushton.co.uk - Visit our new website -

A safe, alternative system of medicine. Commonly treated ailments include:

Emotional troubles - stress, panic, grief, depression Digestive disorders - IBS, constipation Urinary problems - cystitis, thrush and kidney disorders Injury and joints - rheumatism and arthritis Skin conditions including eczema and acne Allergies - hayfever, asthma and food intolerance Hormonal Problems – periods, menopause, infertility Ailments in pregnancy and childbirth Babies’ teething troubles and childhood illnesses Migraine and headaches Chronic Fatigue.

www.anitalouiserushton.co.uk Invest in a better mental health from as little as £35.00 per session”

For appointments in Wrexham, Coedpoeth or Chester, or for a no obligation chat please phone:

01978 269017 or 07762 477260 www.dawn-homeopathy.co.uk

www.chesterwellnesscentre.co.uk

Dawn Knox BA Hons RSHom Registered Homeopath

PSYCHOTHERAPY

On the couch W

ith modern day stress, our busy lifestyles and commitments women are increasingly ﬁnding it difﬁcult to cope with all that life has to give you. Many of the women we see at our practice present with a wide range of issues which may include: ● Fertility Problems ● Complicated Child Birth ● Ill Health ● Postnatal Depression ● Termination or Miscarriage ● Relationship Issues ● Anxiety and Stress ● Eating Disorders ● Violence and Abuse ● Child Custody

Pregnancy and childbirth For many women and men pregnancy and childbirth is extremely stressful and will experience great levels of anxiety. This can become further exacerbated by birth complications, testing and examinations. Many suffer from difficult feelings following the birth of a child. Tearfulness, worry about the baby and irritability affect the vast majority of women. Feelings can be very mixed, with elation and low mood following each other in quick succession. It is not surprising that new mothers and fathers find it difficult and confusing, as they come to terms with the huge responsibilities associated with parenting. In the early period following childbirth for a mother experiencing such feelings or symptoms it is regarded as natural and often regarded as the ‘baby blues’ however if such feelings do persist for an extended period of time it may be possible that you may be presenting symptoms of postnatal depression. For some parents and their babies, postnatal depression can be devastating. It can last far beyond the first few months after the birth, sometimes years and can have a profound effect on thoughts, behaviour and feelings. Heightened anxiety and obsessive thoughts on issues such as the baby’s health, lack of motivation, a sense of numbness, loss of appetite and disturbed sleep are also signs that you may require assistance from healthcare professionals such as your GP, health visitor or therapist. When trying to ignore or repress such feelings there is a real danger that depression can set in, as to deny such feelings is to deny a part of yourself. Fortunately postnatal depression responds extremely well to talking treatments such as counselling and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Many clients also present with issues surrounding fertility and conception some may have had failed attempts to have a child naturally and are considering treatments such as IVF. Such issues can have a great effect upon individuals relationships and mental health. Many may present with feelings such as anger, regret and guilt blaming themselves or others for waiting to have a child, or for related health problems and medical conditions. Anita Louise Rushton & Associates work closely with medical professionals and providers such as Cheshire Women’s Health, the private Gynaecological, Fertility and Obstetric Services for women who also practice from the Chester Wellness Centre. Our private practice is able to support women through the challenging times of their lives. y

Anita Louise Rushton is accredited by the counselling society and a full member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy and the Person-Centred Art Therapy Association. Anita has also trained with the RELATE institute at Doncaster University. As well as being afﬁliated to corporate clients, Anita offers a private, dedicated and conﬁdential service. Sessions with Anita are available from £35 per hour. Telephone: 01978 846081 Mobile: 07912 609674 Email: info@anitalouiserushton.co.uk, www.anitalouiserushton.co.uk

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yattaron...

Lynne Allbutt: change for the better The lovely Lynne always manages to encourage a positive attitude in others, and 2012 is no exception…

hat a great year 2012 is already proving to be. Speaking to Jonathan Cainer at the end of last year he said that 2012 was going to be special for us all. Venus appears in front of the sun on the 6th of June, which is known as the Transit of Venus, and indicates that we will all discover, or be made aware of, what our innate talents and gifts are and our real purpose in the world. I have always believed that we all have a divine path and those people that just sparkle with energy and happiness are the ones that have already found theirs. It’s about following your heart, doing what really makes you happy rather than pacifying others and the Bank Manager. Before you shake your head, remember there are people out there who are making great incomes from the most unconventional projects which they are passionate about. This year it is going to be more important than ever! We must learn to listen to the passion in our hearts and trust our intuition. Intuition simply means ‘tuition from within’, that hunch or feeling you get about something. When I spoke to Chesney Hawkes after he had broken his leg training for Dancing On ice, despite being really fed up, he said he had looked for the Zen in it all – the reason. He concluded that at least an enforced spell at home would mean that he would ﬁnish his new album, his autobiography and also arrange more tour dates, which he loves to do; all things he’s passionate about.

Love what you do… Personally, I’m lucky as I already do what I love, and love what I do! But my path is constantly taking me in directions that I do not expect. This year I have found myself more and more involved with the Zoopharmacognosy that I trained in with the fabulous Caroline Ingraham. It is a magniﬁcent word describing how animals self-medicate in the wild, intuitively choosing the herbs and plants that they need to feel better or heal themselves. I have always been in total adoration of plants, nature and wildlife but it seems that my Divine Path is leading away from the landscaping and garden maintenance and more toward the herbal and healing side of it all. You get little signs when you are on your right or Divine Path. Talking to Bill Bailey last year it transpires that he is involved with the same Orangutan charity as Caroline. Their (divine) paths have almost certainly crossed. Many celebrities are reconnecting with nature and her organic teachings. We need to take more responsibility for our actions, lifestyles and health; being connected to nature, even if it’s just a daily walk in the park, or having a plant on your desk, or eating more vegetables will help us to do that. Sounds simple and it is, that’s the whole point!

‘This is the year we will all discover what our talents are – our Divine Path’

93 Lynne Allbutt Spring 2.indd 93

Lynne with a cheetah, one of the animals she has treated I ﬁnally committed to giving up meat last year. Animals contribute so much to my life it suddenly seemed time to return the compliment and stop eating them. The decision was easy but physically it was hard, with awful unexpected side effects of lethargy, headaches, and general debilitation. Celebrity nutritionist Marissa Peer explained the withdrawal symptoms are not caused by the lack of vitamins or iron as is often thought but the sudden lack of growth hormones, steroids, antibiotics and other chemicals that are in our meat today.

Let the sun shine out After persevering, I feel one hundred percent healthier and ﬁtter on my vegetarian diet. I feel cleaner, brighter and sharper. I believe it’s all part of the ‘purpose’ that Jonathan spoke about. Not only am I passionate about my new direction but I have more energy and creativity to give to it and even to talk about it. I am being asked to give more and more talks and I enjoy inspiring others to start listening to their own intuition and discover their own Divine Paths. As the comedienne Shappi Khorsandi says: ‘Despite my path being difﬁcult at times, I could never have done anything else, the sun shines out from those who are doing what they love.’ I really couldn’t agree more – take the time to notice this about people and then do your best to promote change for the better within yourself – good luck! y ❋ www.lynneallbutt.com

Get your copy of ‘Allbutt’s Almanac 2012’!

PIES FREE COIVE TO G ! AWAY

This great book is bursting with brilliant ideas and handy hints including organic ways to improve health and wealth. Lynne says: ‘It’s only £4.99 and available from my website or by sending a cheque for £5.99 (inc P&P) to Lynne Allbutt, Llangattock, Crickhowell, Powys NP8 1PY – I promise you’ll love it!’ For your chance to win, answer the following question and email: editorial@yattaryattar.co.uk – the ﬁrst ﬁve correct answers will win! Q: Which pop star was Lynne speaking to after he broke his leg? (Clue: he is the one and only! )

Spring 2012 yattaryattar magazine 93

23/02/2012 18:39

Weight Loss Surgery giving you your life back Spire Yale Hospital weight loss surgery offers:

• • • • •

qualified and highly experienced surgeons dedicated weight loss surgery support team ongoing personal dietary advice and after-care clean and comfortable environment regular open evenings offering free, expert advice and the chance to meet the team

We offer a range of surgical procedures, including gastric band and bypass, gastric sleeve and gastric balloon. For more information call

01978 262 462 or email info@spireyale.com

www.spireyale.com

Wrexham Technology Park, Croesnewydd Road, Wrexham, LL13 7YP

HEALTH

Weight-loss surgery Andrew Baker, consultant at the Spire Yale Hospital in Wrexham, explains how weight-loss surgery can dramatically beneﬁt people’s lives

eight-loss surgery can be a difficult topic for people to understand. Before such procedures are considered, it is important that prospective patients take the time to consider what is involved throughout the treatment process and whether it is the best route for them. That is why Andrew Baker holds free sessions at Spire Yale to discuss the issues on a Saturday morning. In a one-hour session, it is a chance to hear about the issues surrounding obesity, what it means, the health ramifications and the treatments available. It is vital to understand the risks as well as the benefits of this sort of treatment. Andrew Baker says: ‘Obesity is a serious chronic health problem – it has negative effects on your blood pressure, can cause diabetes and heart disease, joint problems and even sleep disorders, as well as having a huge negative impact on how we feel about ourselves.’ There are three main patterns of eating that can cause this problem for people – those who have two or three very large meals daily, those who constantly graze or snack all day, and those who eat large meals, but then snack also. Andrew says: ‘The treatment we can offer depends on which category our patients fall into, because certain treatments are best for certain patterns of behaviour. That is why we also offer one-to-one free consultations as it is very important to match expectations of outcomes (how much weight loss is desired) with realistic results (which varies for the procedures) based upon eating behaviour.’ A gastric band works by restricting the amount patients can hold in their stomach, and so reduces their calorie intake to help them lose weight when the volume they eat is the primary problem. Andrew says: ‘This technique is not so effective for ‘grazers’, where we would

preferably do a gastric bypass, which is becoming more common. Both procedures restrict the volume people eat, but the bypass has added benefits which mean that high calorie soft foods and liquids are restricted as well. Both procedures also can reduce how hungry people feel, so reducing when and how much we eat.’ ‘All of the operations are done here at Spire Yale Hospital laparoscopically – which means they are done with keyhole cuts so that people get over the operations much more quickly. Before patients come to the hospital they are put on a ‘liver reducing diet’, which is very low in sugars and fat. Obese people will have an enlarged liver that makes surgery more difficult and this special diet will make the operations safer.’ ‘After the operation, patients will stay in the Spire Yale Hospital for up to three days after the bypass. We stipulate nil by mouth for 24 hours, then we start liquids and a soft purée diet. When patients return home, they are given full support from our lead nurse and dietician, who stay in constant touch to help guide all aspects of recovery and specifically progress with eating different things. ‘After six weeks, patients come for their consultation with me, then again every three months for the first year. The change we see is remarkable – the average weight loss with a bypass for instance can be as much as 1–1.5kg per week in the early stages, and this is achieved through the surgery but also by the ongoing support we put in place, including monthly checkups and contact by the Spire team. In the long term typical weight losses of between 50% and 75% of the body’s excess fat is lost through using a gastric band or a bypass, although some

‘Our service here is for the whole year, with no limit to the number of follow up meetings’

people do lose more by understanding how to work with the dietary demands of the operations they have undergone. Of course, seeing resolution of serious health problems like diabetes and high blood pressure is very satisfying.’ ‘Our service here is based on quality outcomes for the patient, and revolves around thinking about what is best for the patient’s individual needs, what is going to provide the best overall outcome for this patient’s health and wellbeing. Our service here is for the whole year, and there is absolutely no limit to the number of follow up meetings available to support our patients through this very important time of change in their lives.’ y

Mr Andrew Baker BHB, MB, ChB, FRACS Has special clinical interest in obesity surgery and the management of upper gastrointestinal diseases, and has extensive experience in advanced laparoscopic techniques. Mr Baker trained as a general surgeon in New Zealand before moving to the UK.

01978 262462

www.spireyale.com

Spring 2012 yattaryattar magazine 95

95 Health Spire Spring.indd 95

24/02/2012 12:24

Private treatment in a leading Enjoy the comfort of private treatmentspecialist in a leading specialist orthopaedic hospital.

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Our specialist services: • Treatment • Back disorders of bone, joint and muscular conditions • Children’s orthopaedic surgery • Hip and knee replacement and reconstruction World Class Reputation • Hand, foot, ankle knee surgery A dedicated Privateshoulder, Patients’ Unit within the Robert Jones and and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic and District Hospital NHS Trust; a centre with a worldwide reputation for clinical excellence, innovation and research. • Sports injury surgery Our patients receive personalised treatment by a specialist of their choice, at a time convenient to them.and All Consultants Ludlow Unit specialise in the treatment of bone, • Spinal boneat thetumour service joint and muscular disorders and are supported by progressive orthopaedically trained nurses. Both Worlds Best•ofMetabolic disorders Private treatment on Ludlow is carried out in addition to the volumes of NHS work • Sports injury surgery

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undertaken at the Orthopaedic Hospital. The income generated contributes to the costs of the NHS Trust, which benefits all patients and staff.

Benefits: • World Class Reputation Safety We have consistently low infection rates and a 24 hour high dependency unit. • Best of Both Worlds; private treatment in a specialist NHS hospital Privacy and Comfort Now with a new dedicated outpatient facility, Ludlow Unit also has 16 private en-suite rooms, tastefully decorated with flat screen television, access to Sky, direct dial and internet access. • Now Accredited to Highest Quality Standard ISO 9001 Our food is excellent; special requests can be accommodated. Tea, coffee and other drinks are served at all times. Daily newspapers of your choice are provided. Accommodation is • Consistently Low Infection Rates available for relatives if travelling some distance. Private Healthcare Insurance • 24 Hour High Dependency Unit We accept all forms of healthcare insurance and offer competitive fixed packages for the non insured. • Privacy and Comfort Referrals Please ask your GP to refer you to a Consultant of your choice. See our website for details of Consultants undertaking • Free WiFiprivate work at the Ludlow Unit. http://www.rjah.nhs.uk/private-patients.aspx • All Private Healthcare Insurance Accepted The Ludlow Unit The Roberthealthcare Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic and District Hospital NHS Trust • No insurance? - we offer fixed price packages Surgeons undertaking private work utilise the hospital’s unique ultra clean air theatre suite, the skills of expert theatre specialists and share knowledge of the hospital’s considerable research work.

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Referrals Please ask your GP to refer you to a Consultant of your choice: www.rjah.nhs.uk/private-patients For a free DVD and further information, contact Elaina Lewis: T: 01691 404307 E: elaina.lewis@rjah.nhs.uk The Ludlow Unit The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Oswestry, Shropshire, SY10 7AG Tel: 01691 404307 www.rjah.nhs.uk

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HEALTH ADVICE

Hi-tech operating theatres at the Orthopaedic Hospital Yattar Yattar went for a fascinating tour of the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital’s operating facilities to see what marvels lie in store for their patients…

rthopaedic surgery differs from other ﬁelds in that it involves a diverse selection of procedures ranging from major deep invasions with large joint replacements to the most modern microsurgical techniques. To help provide the best environment for patients and surgeons, which results in the best treatment, the Orthopaedic Hospital installed a state-of-theart operating theatre.

Inside the ‘Barn’ When a patient arrives in theatre they are taken into the ‘Barn’ which consists of four separate chambers suspended from the ceiling – this is to maintain a constant ‘Laminar’ air ﬂow through the chambers. Each one of the chambers is equipped with a hi-tech ventilation system – the ‘HEPA’ ﬁlters the air in what is known as a plenum chamber. This means that the infection rate is one of the lowest in the country – which is very important in all surgery, and particularly surgery involving joints. In theatre there are often problems with surgeons and anaesthetists not having enough space and not being able to take refreshments during surgery. This is no longer a problem at the specialist orthopaedic centre as surgeons, anaesthetists and nurses can move between the chambers within the common Barn space. The chambers are equipped with the latest imaging equipment. We were able to see these in use during a laporoscopic hip operation by Mr Karlakki (right), consultant orthopaedic surgeon, who used a keyhole camera and took X-rays during the operation to exactly position his instruments during the precise procedure (to remove a patient’s impingement in their hip joint). Mr Karlakki explains: ‘Because of the theatre design, infection rates

here are twice as low as the national standard, which is great for patients.’ We also met with Andrew Joseph, surgical services manager who explains: ‘We have a number of teams who all have to work together for the smooth running of the theatre – theatre nurses, the scrub team and ODPs (Operating Department Practitioners, who are trained to assist surgeons in all areas), plus the anaesthetic team and the recovery team. Here at the Orthopaedic we also have a highdependency unit which provides extra one-to-one care for sicker patients. Plus, the whole facility here is purpose-built and integrated – so for example we have our own sterile services unit onsite.’ The Laminar air-flow design in the Barn is very beneficial in orthopaedic surgery and results in one of the lowest infection rates in the UK. The reason for this, Andrew explains: ‘Filtered air is pushed down from ceiling to floor, which keeps all airborne particles out of the way of the patient. If you are operating in a sterile part of the body – like a joint - you must keep the environment as clean as possible.’ So how many operations are you able to perform here at the RJAH theatres? Andrew says: ‘This is a major centre for specialist orthopaedic surgery, and a lot gets done! With our four cabins and five standard theatres we perform 250 operations every week. Each operating theatre is supported by around nine or ten support staff and we have approximately 50 consultant

‘Because of the theatre design, infection rates here are twice as low as the national standard’

orthopaedic surgeons with us here at RJAH.’ ‘Also, anaesthetists must stay with their patient throughout the whole operation, and these days patient choice about the kinds of anaesthesia used can be a lot more tailored to suit individual preferences. We are also ﬁnding that rapid recovery helps hugely with better patient outcomes – it is so important to get up and about as quickly as possible.’

What’s best for the patients At the end of 2011, the RJAH put in place a new procedure where the surgical scrub team will contact the patient three days before the operation – after the pre-op check has been done – just to check they are well and ready to come to hospital. Andrew says: ‘This helps us minimise the cancellations (a theatre costs £20 per minute!), and we ﬁnd the patients really appreciate the call.’ ‘We have also set up the ‘Menzies Unit’ for day cases. Increasingly, we are able to do procedures where patients do not need to spend any nights with us. We now have three theatres in this unit, where patients can have local, regional or general anaesthetic. Where day surgery is possible, it is much better for patients as they can get back to their homes and don’t have the inconveniences of a hospital stay.’ ‘In some sense, we are a victim of our own success. We are ﬁnding in the UK there is increasing demand for specialist orthopaedic procedures, such as hip and knee surgery, and our theatres are constantly in high demand – and it’s our job to ensure the smooth running of these facilities every day of the year!’ y

For more information, contact The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Oswestry on: 01691 404606 (NHS) 01691 404307 (Ludlow Private Unit) www.rjah.nhs.uk Spring 2012 yattaryattar magazine 97

97 Ludlow Health.indd 97

23/02/2012 18:40

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Allech chi fod yn Ofalwr Maeth Therapiwtig?

Could you be a Specialist Foster Carer?

Ar hyn o bryd rydym yn chwilio am unigolion gyda phrofiad o ofalu am blant a phobl ifanc gydag anghenion cymhleth i ddarparu gofal maeth therapiwtig. Yn ddelfrydol bydd gennych gefndir proffesiynol mewn gwaith cymdeithasol, preswyl, cyfiawnder ieuenctid, lleoliad addysg neu iechyd a bydd disgwyl i chi gael CGC 3 priodol os nad oes gennych un eisoes.

We are currently recruiting individuals with experience of caring for children and young people with complex needs to deliver therapeutic foster care. Ideally you will have a professional background within a social care, residential, youth justice, educational setting or health and be expected to acquire an appropriate NVQ3 if you do not have one already.

Mae angen i blant Wrecsam aros yn eu cymunedau cartref gyda gofalwyr maeth therapiwtig proffesiynol. Fel un o’r gofalwyr hyn, byddwch yn cael pecyn cymorth ariannol hael ac yn gweithio fel rhan o dîm gyda sicrwydd cefnogaeth therapyddion a staff addysg.

Wrexham children need to stay in their home communities with professional therapeutic foster carers. As one of these carers, you will be rewarded with a very generous financial support package and work as part of a team with guaranteed support from therapists and education staff.

Os ydych yn meddwl y gallwch gynnig cyfle mewn bywyd i blentyn trwy weithio fel gofalwr proffesiynol, cysylltwch â’r llinell recriwtio yn y Tîm Lleoli mewn Teuluoedd ar RHADFFÔN

If you think you could offer a child a chance in life working as a professional carer, please contact the Recruitment line in the Family Placement Team on FREEPHONE

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HEALTH

Renal cancer and kidney stones How the latest treatments can help

We speak to Mr Powell, consultant surgeon at the Nufﬁeld Health, The Grosvenor Hospital in Chester, about the latest treatments for kidney disease

r Powell says: ‘I specialise in looking after patients with kidney problems – renal cancer and kidney stones. The classic symptoms for this are loin pain and the evidence of blood in the urine. It can affect all age groups – but the likelihood of these conditions increases as we get older. ‘We are seeing more renal cancers and kidney stones of late, partly the reason is that they are picked up more often and earlier during an ultrasound scan or MRI, (for example for abdominal pain). But there are no lifestyle causes for these problems, although some particular conditions causing renal cancer can be inherited from your parents. The ﬁrst thing we do if a patient presents symptoms or

we see a possible kidney cancer on a scan is to check it is cancerous with a ‘staging CT scan’. You see, we may just want to monitor its growth and malignancy as it may not be presenting any risks to the patient,’ explains Mr Powell. ‘Previously, the standard treatment was to open the patient up and remove the whole kidney, because for most of our adult lives we can get along quite happily with only one functioning kidney. However, we know now that this is not ideal as this does reduce renal function, and later in life we are much better off with two kidneys, so if possible it is far better to remove the growth only.’ ‘We can now use radio frequency ablation to kill the cancerous growth. We insert a special needle under ultrasound guidance to exactly the right spot, then the cancer cells are kill with heat. We’re performing more and more of these treatments in this way. ‘The other relatively new advance in treatment is to remove the tumour via laparoscopy (keyhole surgery), which is

quite a specialised technique. We can also remove whole kidneys this way! The resulting incision is only 5-7cm, and the patient’s stay in hospital is much shorter – two to three days as opposed to a week, and they can be back at work in one or two weeks’ time. Keyhole surgery is on the whole a lot more comfortable for patients. So the major advances in urology have been technological in recent years, and we can offer these cutting edge techniques at Nufﬁeld Health, The Grosvenor hospital. For kidney stones, which can cause patients great discomfort, we used to commonly use shock waves, but now we can use laser treatment to break up stones.’ y

Christopher Stephen Powell LRCP, MB BS, FRCS, studied medicine in London and became a consultant in 1990, and is the ﬁrst consultant to prefer laparoscopic renal surgery in the north west.

Lets talk Men’s Health

Male health problems are something we are often a little reluctant to talk about. In fact, it’s estimated that 10% of the male population suffers in silence. But at the same time such concerns can be the cause of much stress and discomfort. So when it comes to seeking advice on everything from prostate disorders to erectile dysfunction, talk to the Urology experts at Nuffield Health Chester Hospital. Put your mind at rest and contact us today to arrange a swift consultation. Please call 01244 684305 for more information or go to nuffieldhealth.com/thegrosvenorhospitalchester

01978 262462

99 Health Spring Grosvenor.indd 99

www.spireyale.com

23/02/2012 18:41

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23rd September - 23rd October Your comfort zone is not having to make a decision but going back over old ground means you must. Why put yourself in a position where you eventually have no choice? A March new moon in Aries gives courage to your convictions and an April full moon in Libra gives the chance to face all opposition. Fait accompli!

TAURUS

SCORPIO

GEMINI

SAGITTARIUS

CANCER

CAPRICORN

20th April - 21st May February’s full moon in Leo activates the part of your solar chart symbolising inner nature and matters of the heart. The home fires need stoking and that means intimacy taking centre stage. You’ve been a little negligent so do what you do best and create a seductive setting for you and your twin flame to reconnect. Then watch the sparks fly!

21st May - 21st June You may have started 2012 with reservations rather than resolutions so here’s one to think about: ‘words and tact must work together’. As a great conversationist you often say things without thinking therefore appearing shallow and casual. In reality you’re just trying to say as much as you can as quickly as possible. Pehaps saying less will solve this dilemma?

Thinking of Selling? Or Been Trying To Sell For Some Time

21st June - 23rd July You’re such an emotional individual and could easily drown in feelings but you’re also a great swimmer on the thundering surf of life. You can now either strike out in a new direction or go with the ﬂow. Neptune moving into Pisces in February suggests you move with the tide not against it. Creative forces are at work!

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LIBRA

20th March - 20th April Snowdrops have something in common with you Aries, they like to be ﬁrst! But, it’s the early bird who catches the worm so use the changes going on to your advantage. You thrive on competition and there’s plenty present so view it as a plus and push ahead. If winning is the name of this game you’re positioned well.

23rd July - 23rd August Taxes, investments and joint resources need attention. New ﬁelds of action always open up when there seems to be no visible solution and because of generous past actions you’re in for some high praise indeed. It holds more value than any status symbol and even if it won’t pay the bills, it’ll give you a status all of its own.

VIRGO

23rd August - 23rd September You’ll have more work than you’d bargained for this spring so it’ll be difficult to please everybody – a hard call between meeting your own needs or putting others first. Opt for the latter but only put your needs on hold. Your astrological motto is ‘I Remedy’ but the physician can only look after others if first he takes care of him or herself.

23rd Oct - 22nd Nov There’s nobody better than you at surviving everything against the odds and coming up smelling of roses. Okay, it might smell of manure ﬁrst but that’s a great fertiliser for future growth. Mars representing drive and destiny sees you perfecting the ﬁnishing touches to a longterm project. The power and energy is now available to reveal what it is.

22nd Nov - 21st Dec Are you a teacher or student? Listener or the speaker? Sage or fool? You may have to answer some questions this spring by taking stock of how you see yourself and how that perception ﬁts into the life you’ve created. You scatter thoughts to the four winds and sometimes they come back in the form of a hurricane. The question is why?

21st December - 20th January The goat represents your sign, this can be mountain goat, nanny goat, old goat or kid. Whichever ﬁts your bill you’re now being asked to do what all goats do, chew nails. The kind which are hard to digest but hold things together. You can do it and achieve your goal, that’s the wonder of goats – they can move mountains.

AQUARIUS

20th January - 19th February A little astro quiz: what do Saturn in Libra and Aquarius have in common? They are both air signs and as such have a great compatibility which is why with a bit of hard work and concentration you can come up with the idea you’ve been waiting for. It will be different and inventive but then, so are you!

PISCES

19th February - 20th March Houdini was an escape artist who eventually failed in his attempt – don’t follow suit. You are vulnerable to the harsh realities of life but you are also a survivor so use tactics not tears and call on your opposite sign of Virgo to plan a strategy. Practicality is your keyword this spring, and shape, form and structure your best friends.

Proﬁle of Gloria Mans Gloria trained in the art of astrology at the prestigious Faculty of Astrological Studies in London. This involved astronomy and the study of longitude and latitude of planets and the ‘relationship’ they make through what are called ‘angles’. Astrology is also about intuition and understanding. Gloria has worked for many celebrities – Sally Burton, Richard Burton’s widow says: ‘Gloria makes a difference to your life’. Other clients have included Jerry Hall and David Bailey. www.gloriamans.com email: starscene@btinternet.com Spring 2012 yattaryattar magazine 101

101 Astrology Spring v2.indd 101

24/02/2012 17:32

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Indulgent Beauty Treatment Vouchers worth £500!

HOW TO ENTER Simply answer the following question and send your answer, along with your name, address and telephone number to by May 14th 2012: Yattar Yattar, Skin Health Spa Competition, Unit 13, Vauxhall Industrial Estate, Ruabon, Wrexham, LL14 6HA. (Winners will be notiﬁed by email, so make sure you include your email address)

Q: Which historic town is home to the Skin Health Spa? a) Ludlow b) Nantwich c) Ruthin Name ........................................................................................... Address ........................................................................................ ....................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................... ............................................. Postcode ....................................... Contact number: ....................................................................... Email (please complete)................................................................... PLEASE DONOT SEND ME ANY OTHER INFORMATION

WIN!

Specialist celebrity skincare treatments from Skin Health Spa are now available in Nantwich as the leading national clinic chain opens its first Cheshire location. Located on historic Welsh Row in Nantwich town centre, the new Skin Health Spa clinic incorporates six luxurious treatment rooms, a plush modern reception area as well as housing the new head office and operations centre for Skin Health Spa, who have six prestigious clinics across the UK. Operations Director Adam Flint: ‘It’s about improving your skin; its texture and tone, as well as fighting off the signs of ageing. In addition, our expertise lies in treating difficult skin conditions such as acne.’ Treatments offered include skin rejuvenating laser treatments, anti-ageing and wrinkle reducing options, treatments for sun damage and scarring, permanent hair reduction, pioneering Derma Roller facials, plus traditional waxing, indulgent facials, massage and spray tanning. Skin Health Spa has teamed up with Yattar Yattar to offer readers the chance to win a £500 Treatment Voucher to spend on treatments of their choice. All you need to do to be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize is to answer the question and send us the form with your details.

WORTH £

500!

Win £250 towards the cost of your wedding rings at The Ring Workshop LTD!

HOW TO ENTER Simply answer the following question and send your answer, along with your name, address and telephone number by May 14th: Yattar Yattar, The Ring Workshop Competition, Unit 13, Vauxhall Industrial Estate, Ruabon, Wrexham, LL14 6HA. (Winners will be notiﬁed by email, so make sure you include your email address)

Q: The Ring Workshop works in gold, platinum, palladium and? a) Titanium b) Titanic c) Tin Name ........................................................................................... Address ........................................................................................ ....................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................... ............................................. Postcode .......................................

The Ring Workshop is committed to offering you exceptional quality, unrivalled choice and real value. They work in gold, platinum, palladium and titanium. Their portfolio of rings includes traditional, contemporary, diamond-set, and handmade designs. In addition to their own extensive range of wedding rings they also stock products from a variety of European manufacturers including Christian Bauer, Furrer Jacot and Meister. ‘We believe we occupy a truly unique niche in the marketplace. We know of no other jeweller with access to a better value, more varied or inclusive portfolio of designs and very soon we could be working with you, helping you create your dream wedding bands.’ For a chance to win this amazing prize, just answer the simple question opposite and send us the form.

WORTH

Contact number: ....................................................................... Email (please complete)................................................................... PLEASE DO NOT SEND ME ANY OTHER INFORMATION

Winner’s Gallery

Wenlock Hamper Competition Winner: Mrs Gwynneth Carter, Cheshire

Wizard’s Thatch Cottage Competition Winner: Mr Rob Sharpe, Conwy

£250!

The Ring Workshop Ltd Telephone: 01691 238297 Email: enquiries@ringworkshop.co.uk

WE NEVER FAIL TO DISAPPOINT. HERE ARE OUR LUCKY WINNERS FROM THE AUTUMN AND WINTER 2011 EDITIONS OF YATTAR YATTAR MAGAZINE.

West Midlands Safari Park Winners: Mrs Hazel Byron, Liverpool. Tracey Phillips, Rhyl. Andrea Taylor, Denbighshire.

Chester Zoo Competition Mrs Catherine Warburton, Shropshire

Congratulations to all our lucky winners, we hope you enjoyed your wonderful gifts courtesy of Yattar Yattar Magazine!

SXY Skin Competition Amanda Harrison, Denbighshire

Curves Gym Competition Samantha Valentine, Denby

If you have a prize you’d like to offer our readers, get in touch with the Yattar team on (01978) 813035 or email editorial@yattaryattar.co.uk

102 yattaryattar magazine Spring 2012

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24/02/2012 16:30

COMPETITIONS

WIN!

A FANTASTIC STENA LINE CROSSING TO IRELAND STENA LINE HAS TEAMED UP WITH YATTAR YATTAR TO PUT A SPRING IN THE STEP OF TWO LUCKY READERS BY OFFERING THE CHANCE TO WIN RETURN TRAVEL TO IRELAND FOR A CAR PLUS FOUR PASSENGERS FROM HOLYHEAD*. Spring is the perfect time to book a trip on Stena Line; families can take a break while the children are off school for the Easter holidays, or treat Dad to a trip for Father’s Day. With sailings from Holyhead to Dublin Port running four times daily and an additional seasonal HSS fastcraft sailing from Holyhead to Dun Laoghaire on offer from March 30th, travelling with Stena Line is the perfect start to any Spring break. Passengers can take their car, pack in as much luggage as they need and once onboard can sit back, relax and enjoy the great choice of restaurants and bars, take advantage of the free Wi-Fi and movies or make the most of the great savings in the onboard shop. Don’t worry if you aren’t a lucky winner as you can sail with Stena Line to Ireland this Spring from only £79** single for a car and driver. For more information or to book, click on www.stenaline.co.uk, call 08447 70 70 70 or visit your local travel agent. For your chance to win, simply answer the following question and post the form to the Yattar Yattar address with your details!

HOW TO ENTER Simply answer the following question and send your answer, along with your name, address and telephone number to by April 30th: Yattar Yattar, Stena Line Competition, Unit 13, Vauxhall Industrial Estate, Ruabon, Wrexham, LL14 6HA. (Winners will be notiﬁed by email, so make sure you include your email address)

Q: You can sail from Holyhead to Dublin and which other port? a) Belfast b) Dun Laoghaire c) Cairnryan Name ........................................................................................... Address ........................................................................................ ....................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................... ............................................. Postcode ....................................... Contact number: ....................................................................... Email (please complete)................................................................... PLEASE DONOT SEND ME ANY OTHER INFORMATION

*Prize is as detailed and no alternative will be offered. Entries must be received by 30 April 2012. Two winners (18 years or over) will be chosen at random from all correct entries received. Travel is subject to availability. Vehicle transport and fuel is the winner’s own responsibility, as is any item, service, or cost not expressly stated to be included in the prize. Terms and conditions apply. **For best price travel midweek and book online in advance. Terms & conditions apply.

RULES OF THE THREE COMPETITONS

DATA PROTECTION NOTICE Brillybox Publishing and Media Ltd will use your information for administration and analysis purposes and may contact you from time to time with relevant offers, information or for research purposes. Your details will not be passed on to third parties except the sponsors of these competitions. Please tick the relevant box if you do not wish to be contacted. COMPETITION RULES The promoter of this competition is Brillybox Publishing & Media Ltd, CDC Distribution Centre, Unit 13, Vauxhall, Industrial Estate, Ruabon, Wrexham. LL14 6HA. The competitions are open to all readers of our magazine and viewers of our websites except employees of Skin Health Spa, The Ring Workshop, Stena Line or Brillybox Publishing & Media Ltd and their immediate families. The winner will be the ﬁrst person or persons drawn after the closing date who has completed the correct answer. No cash alternative is available. The winners names can be obtained by writing to the competition address with a self-addressed envelope after the closing date. The winner agrees to participate in any follow-up publicity. Brillybox Publishing may print the name only of entrants to this competition in subsequent issue(s) of Yattar Yattar. This is to enable competition entrants to fairly claim a promotional offer, for competition entrants only. By entering this competition you are giving permission for Brillybox to print your name only. No personal information will be printed. No purchase necessary, answers on a postcard are accepted.

102-103 All competitions.indd 103

24/02/2012 16:30

Puzzle time!

There are two sets of clues, cryptic and easy. A few readers have been complaining that the cryptic clues have been too easy lately, so in this puzzle we have made them a little harder, rising in difficulty from 6/10 to 8/10. There are no obscure words and remember, if you are stuck on a difficult clue you can take the easy route. Let’s hope this keeps our brainy readers happy. Answers in next issue 1

8 9 10

23 24

25 CRYPTIC CLUES Across 1 Kind of sick comedian Russell (5) 4 In favour of sisters taking nothing of yours and mine, for instance (8) 8 Government oversight (14) 10 Pop - rely on rugby and exercise (8) 11 He counts the coppers in Oxbridge (6) 12 Explain bizarre tree print (9) 15 Old people in Venice nightspot (5) 17 Game involving bull-rushes (5) 18 Daggers used to wreck toilets on street (9) 19 Summary to begin again (6) 21 Former collier takes a

26 marker (8) 24 Areas of conflict requiring skill with shot and canon (8,6) 25 Winter sportsmen’s financial records on board ship (8) 26 The ups and downs of dodgy diets (5) CLUES DOWN 1 Noah and Sons? (12) 2 A sign of the times, large church gets carpet (9) 3 Fellow man is benefactor (5) 4 Documents to leave behind at points of entry (9) 5 Fine artist portrays plant (4) 6 Visor tube twisted out of place (9) 7 In Chinook storytelling – hiding places (5) 9 Panels fashioned from brass

and tin rust badly (6,6) 13 Looked like regiment with phoney MBE got ahead (9) 14 Chemicals all over the place – exit Doris! (9) 16 Gentle and mixed up (9) 20 Tip – odds not so good (5) 22 Intended compiler to get social worker(5) 23 Mixed up dame survived with it (4) EASY Clues Across 1 Identifying mark burned onto livestock (5) 4 Parts of speech (8) 8 Management (14) 10 Insolvent (8) 11 College official (6) 12 Explain (9) 15 Tribe led by Boadicea (5) 17 Pub game (5)

18 High heels (9) 19 Begin again, continue (6) 21 One who tests (8) 24 Large items of sporting equipment (8,6) 25 Tobogganers (8) 26 Sea level fluctuations (5) Clues Down 1 E.g. Noah and his sons (12) 2 SW town famed for carpet making (9) 3 Giver (5) 4 Identity documents (9) 5 Plant of the mallow family (4) 6 Prominent, usually undesirably so (9) 7 Crevices (5) 9 Boards of experts (6,6) 13 Looked like (9) 14 Chemicals containing three atoms of oxygen in their molecules (9) 16 Snarled up (9) 20 Taper (5) 22 Intended (5) 23 Fabricated (4) BY SAM EVANS

Answers below to our Winter issue crossword 1

D E D I C A B R A S S A O E A N I 8 D A N I S H P A S T R I A O H O O I 10 11 C L U E L E S S T U X N E S I 12

T E H E S 9 R C E D O U

E L F I N E A T E D R A L T E L 18 A D A M A S C E N E B P N E 19 20 21 22 E M PL O Y P E T E C H I A 23 R R L N X N O F R E C R I E P A R K P

B A N A N A R E R T R I E Y E S O R E S

P U B L I C D D E 26 E A S E D

104 yattaryattar magazine Spring 2012

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24/02/2012 09:49

THE LAST WORD

yattaryattaron

The Great Bank Robbery

Bank executives gambled with our money in the pursuit of huge rewards. They lost their bets and billions of pounds of our money – and they have been awarded huge bonuses again. Everyone is asking how could such an unjust outcome be allowed. By our editor Stephanie Booth

n the USA, lenders found a clever wheeze. They gave mortgages to vast numbers of poor people with very small repayments (many did not bother reading through reams of terms and conditions) but found after the first three years the repayments increased dramatically and they could not repay them. At the same time, these lenders sold the mortgages wrapped up with other assets (called Consolidated Debt Obligations) onto big banks including UK ones. Our banks did not know what was in these debt packages, but what they did know was they were buying them at a great discount. Like any Ponzi scam (a fraudulent investment scheme) it worked really well at first. Once the news hounds were on the scent and started to uncover the hugescale scam causing mass defaults and repossessions, everyone asked who was holding the bad debt parcel? The answer was just about every major bank worldwide but no-one knew how much and which banks would fail. Panic ensued but was tempered when the US Federal Reserve stepped in to save Bear Stearns. Then, when they realised the problem was too big, they changed tack and let Lehman Brothers go under and the world economy stood on the brink of collapse.

A Transatlantic tragedy When it came to the UK, without government rescue two huge banks would have gone into administration, RBS/Natwest and The Lloyds Banking Group. So, using the money that you and I have paid in taxes, the government rescued them. RBS/Natwest received 45 billion pounds of our money. Now you think the bankers would be grateful and help others in the same way we helped them, but oh no, they are bankers and the qualification seems to be no heart, compassion or conscience.

RBS/Natwest have now pulled the plug on Peacocks – a successful, profitable company with 368 stores, 10,000 staff and based in Wales. Compared with the bank they had run their business cautiously and built it up slowly over many years. We own 84% of RBS/ Natwest so why do we not fully nationalise it and then dictate the rules by which we the people want our bank to run? No more reckless gambling, just taking deposits and providing loans to UK citizens and businesses. The reason George Osbourne cannot tell them what to do is that they are far too big and it is the banks telling our elected politicians what they will and will not do. We purport to live in a democracy which means that politicians should reflect the views of the voters they claim to represent. Everyone I have spoken to thinks that you should be paid the rate for the job, that is called a wage or salary. No one I have spoken to thinks any publicly owned bank should be paying out multi-million pound bonuses, when, at the same time millions are unemployed and the majority are

struggling to heat their homes and put food on the table. Pensioners are struggling while some work-shy families are protesting that their benefit is going to be capped at £26,000 (equivalent to a £35,000 salary). Most working families do not earn that much. Then there is those who have worked hard and end up in care, and are stripped of their life savings while those who have drunk, smoked and gambled their money away get their care paid for by the State. Is that fair? Traditional values have been lost, communities have had the heart ripped out of them and, until we the voters and taxpayers stand united and say ‘No more’, it will undoubtedly continue. y

‘So, using the money that you and I have paid in taxes the government rescued the banks’

106 yattaryattar magazine Spring 2012

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23/02/2012 18:45

Queens School poster A4 (Free Activities) Feb 12.pdf

22/2/12

11:21:54

Winning isn't everything

but try telling that to like Ruth

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