Shire Magazine Jan-Feb 2023 Shropshire & Mid Wales

Welcome to your new edition of Shire Magazine –and welcome to 2023! It felt like a bit of a bumpy road to get here – but here’s hoping for a happy, healthy, peaceful and prosperous year ahead for all of us. Certainly, here at Shire HQ we’re gearing up for a good one, as we think our patch is ready to pull together and celebrate all things local and lovely as the country continues to face some di cult issues. What better way to keep on top of the cost-of-living crisis than sticking with your favourite, completely free magazine! So many of the events we promote are also free that our What’s On guide is always the best place to start when you’re planning activities. In this issue we have plenty of winter wonders listed as well as lots to keep the family entertained over February half term Our gardens section features the perfect place to visit if you’re feeling romantic this Valentine’s Day, and the ranges in our Homes section also celebrate love with hearts and flowers aplenty. We have a packed food section, as always – and it’s not all about January diets you’ll be glad to hear. So have a read for a delicious new recipe and some smart wine suggestions too. If you’re planning to nurture your creative side this year, check out our Arts and Books pages – maybe 2023 will be the year you discover an absorbing new hobby or even write that long-pondered book Whatever your plans for the coming months, Shire is looking forward to spending it by your side once again. Happy New Year, and let’s enjoy 2023.

BOOK NOW! For the pick of the region’s top holiday spots, don’t miss our bumper 2023 holiday guide

From boats to ballet, comedy to cycling, let us fill your diary for the coming months

1 Tell us about your upcoming events. Just remember that we work in advance, so 1st February is the deadline for events you’d like to feature in our March/April issue.

2

Share your reader stories

Have you got an exciting or extraordinary story to tell? We’d like to feature it in the next issue. Send us an email – and don’t forget to include a picture or two as well.

Reader photos Taken a great shot recently? Email your best e ort and you might get picked! See page 84.

Reader poems Do you like penning the odd line? So do we! Send us your poems – we’d love to include them on our poetry page. See page 121 for more. Your pets Is your pet the love of your life? Send a snap, along

with their name and anything else you want to tell us. See page 87 for further details.

Get social Follow, like and friend us on Facebook and Instagram to be first in line for event updates, competitions and more.

Visit our website online at shiremagazine.co.uk and send submissions and information by email to editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk

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What’s On

Contents

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023

Our events listing covers all the things you might want to see or do over the next two months. We do go to print early, especially over the festive period, so some dates and times may have been updated by the organisers – please read, make a plan and then check before you go!

16

Anglesey

We take a closer look at the isle of Anglesey – a holiday favourite with stunning beaches and lots of attractions to visit.

28

Crewe

Our second location feature focuses on Crewe – once a thriving railway junction, now a bustling town in the very heart of Cheshire.

36

Ludlow

Another favourite destination, we take a tour round this quirky Shropshire market town with its ancient features and modern conveniences.

38

Reviews

It’s been a busy time for the Shire team now that venues have opened their doors again. We’ve been out and about at local shows and events to bring you our reviews.

39 Celebrity

You probably know her best as Dorien from Birds of a Feather Shire speaks to Lesley Joseph as she heads out on tour with the stage musical of Sister Act

42 Fit for a King

For this edition we’ve had a chat with Shire residents who have been fortunate enough to meet our new monarch over the years, to find out what they think of King Charles III.

46

Food

Tempt your tastebuds with a comforting winter recipe from an Italian foodie favourite – and check out the tips from our wine columnist, just back from the South African Winelands.

53 Holidays

As January is the most popular time to book breaks for the rest of the year, we bring you a round-up of fabulous holiday parks, self-catering options and canal boat hire.

61 Active

If your New Year’s resolution is to be more active in 2023, start here with our guide to cycling for health, and a circular walk through the forest.

63

Homes and Interiors

New Year often brings the urge to change things up at home –it’s nearly spring, after all! Our Homes pages are filled with interior design advice and style suggestions for the perfect pad.

78

Green Living

How you can do your bit for the planet, as well as news from local businesses and council schemes that are helping the environment.

79

Gardens

With Valentine’s Day in mind, we’re o to a grand garden with a romantic story to tell. At home, it’s the perfect time to plan a new planting scheme for spring.

82

Arts

We interview artist sisters who are enjoying three times the success, and there’s a guide to exhibitions and events in the coming months.

86 Pets and Wildlife

A focus on our native creatures, with contributions from bird and wildlife experts – and your pet pictures too.

94

Health and Beauty

This section will keep you looking and feeling your best for 2023.

96

20 Questions

We chat with an inspirational woman who, literally, gave up a lot to save a child, but is making a great success of her transformed career.

99

Weddings

If it’s wedding bells for you this year we’ve all the help you need to get organised.

109 Education Schools, colleges and universities across the patch share their news and stories of success.

120

Books and Poetry

We’re locked up with James Patterson – plus local authors, recommended books and some of your best poetry.

124 Retirement News from one of the country’s biggest healthcare providers as well as the latest developments across the senior sector.

127 Charities and Volunteering

A look at the many organisations that do so much good across the patch.

128 Puzzle Time

130 Letters

A selection of mail from you, our lovely readers

NORTH WALES WHAT’S ON

Wildlife adventure North Wales Wildlife Trust

Discover Trees in Winter, 12th & 14th January Learn to separate your oaks from your ash, your cherries from your elms! At Eithinog, Bangor on the 12th, 10am-12.30pm; and at Coed y Felin, Flintshire on the 14th, 10.30am-12.30pm. Tickets £3.

Coastal Cli s Walk, 13th January Experience one of the most iconic coastal walks to the nature reserve at Porth Diana. Expect dramatic scenery with rock arches, blow holes and the chance of seeing chough. 11am-3pm. Tickets £3.

Cemlyn Wildlife Walk, 17th February Explore the wild coast and early spring wildlife on a circular walk. Expect a variety of bird life and often seals! 2-4pm. Tickets £2.

Magni cent Minera, 23rd February Enjoy a guided walk around the Trust’s newest reserve, scratching the surface of some of its amazing history. 11am-1pm & 2-4pm. Tickets £2. northwaleswildlifetrust.org

ART ON ANGLESEY

DYSGU CYMRAEG!

Make 2023 the year you learn Welsh! Nant Gwrtheyrn, near Pwllheli has courses for beginners and more competent Cymraeg speakers. During January, entry-level courses are taught online and cover vocabulary, basic patterns and everyday phrases. In February, the same course (plus a taster) runs at their beautiful centre on the Llŷn Peninsula. Build your con dence by speaking Welsh as much as possible during your stay. Full programme at nantgwrtheyrn.org

Classics at Rhyl Music Club

Trio Arisonto, 11th January Annemarie Federle on French horn, Ezo Sarici on violin, and Dafydd Chapman on piano perform pieces by Schubert, Watkins and Brahms.

Esther Abrami (violin) & Rose McLachlan (piano), 25th January ese rising stars will play pieces by Brahms, Rachmaninov, Satie and more.

Matthew McLachlan Trio, 8th February Alix VaillotSzwarc on violin, Ozgur Kaya on cello and Matthew on piano will play music by Shostakovich and Dvorak.

Alex Karpeyev, 22nd February Pianist Alex will perform works by Chopin, Liszt and Medtner. All concerts start at 7.30pm, nish at 9pm and tickets are £15. www.rhylmusic.com

Until 29th January at Oriel Môn, ‘School Master Artist: Ky n Williams in London’ highlights Williams’ work as a teacher and artist. Gareth Owen has two exhibitions running until 19th February: ‘Aberystwyth’ interprets the promenade through the eyes of various art organisations, and ‘Sŵn y Gwynt sy’n Chwythu’ (‘ e sound of the wind that blows’) is a series of linocuts in response to a poem by Kitchener Davies. Also, from 14th January there’s an exhibition of work to buy from North Wales Society of Fine Art. Tues-Sun 10am-5pm. Free. orielmon.org

Catch some thought-provoking exhibitions at Mostyn Llandudno. Running until 4th February, intricate neon sculptures by Cerith Wyn Evans o er a fully immersive, sensory exploration of mind, body and consciousness. ‘Steve Farrer: Ten Drawings’ comprises 10 short lms of manipulated lm strips engineered into geometric shapes, with a sympathetic soundtrack. From 18th February, ‘Stefan Brüggemann: Not Black, Not White, Silver’, presents work in a wide range of media, creating large installations based on language, paintings and photographs. Tues–Sun 10.30am5pm. Free entry. mostyn.org

Cerith Wyn Evans

Stefan Brüggermann

Gareth Owen

WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 14TH-25TH JANUARY

WINTER AT BANGOR’S PONTIO

Chinese New Year Gala, 21st January Experience cultural workshops, demonstrations and performances throughout the day, including calligraphy; Chinese traditional music; tai chi and wu qin xi, and Chinese knots and bracelets. e gala from 12.30pm will celebrate the Year of the Rabbit with a spectacular audiovisual feast of Chinese traditional music and dance. 10am-4pm. Free event, booking required.

Calling all businesses

Llandudno Gift Fair is the ideal destination if you’re sourcing products for garden centres, visitor centres, tourist attractions, farm and gift shops, online retail, newsagents and convenience stores. With everything from confectionery to clothing, this trade event is hosted by St George’s Hotel on 15th-17th January and will showcase established gift industry exhibitors in an informal environment. From 9am. Trade visitors can register free at llandudnogiftfair.co.uk

Ify Iwobi, 11th February Swansea-born classical and contemporary pianist Ify is a BBC Radio Wales A-list artist who will perform some of her own original works. 7.30pm. Tickets from £5.

Pirate Bonnie, 25th February A warm, witty show with original songs and friezndly interaction for 4-8 year-old pirates and their grown-ups. 11.30am and 2.30pm. Tickets from £6.50. pontio.co.uk

SEW SO GOOD!

Always wanted to learn to sew? Try Beginners’ Quilting at Abakhan Mostyn on 28th January (10.30am-3.30pm, tickets £46.40), and discover how to cut and piece together fabrics to make triangular patterns. Channel your inner Sewing Bee at Dressmaking for the Complete Beginner on 29th January (11am-3pm, £35), or bust that yarn stash at Crochet for Beginners on 18th February (11am-3pm, £32.93) and learn some basic stitches. abakhan.co.uk

Live from London

ROH Ballet: Like Water for Chocolate, 19th & 22nd January, Set in Mexico, the Royal Ballet’s family saga is a classic of magic realism, where emotions spill out through cooking in startling ways. 7.15pm (19th) and 2pm (22nd). From £4.

ROH Opera: e Barber of Seville, 15th & 19th February Rossini’s comic opera – expect heart-melting serenades, ludicrous disguises and a not-quite-fairytale ending. 7pm (15th) and 2pm (19th). Tickets from £4. ucheldre.org

Racing into New Year

Get 2023 o to a racing start at Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse with the Hen Galan Meeting on 12th January – an exciting xture on a crisp afternoon in Denbighshire. e RPM North Wales National Meeting on the 10th February will be the rst North Wales National ever to take place and the atmosphere is set to be electric as punters gather to witness history in the making. See bangorondeeraces.co.uk

•14th January, Creative Writing for Growth: Journaling the Walled Garden, Gladstone’s Library, Hawarden Explore ways to make a journal – your own ‘gardener’s handbook’ for your 2023 personal growth. 10am–1pm. £25 via Eventbrite.

•17th January, Queen Extravaganza, Venue Cymru, Llandudno Experience the o cial Queen tribute band, produced by Roger Taylor and Brian May, featuring more than 20 of the band’s hits. 7.30pm.

•Until 21st January, ‘35 Summers’, Oriel Colwyn, Colwyn Bay An exhibition celebrating 35 years of music photography by Mark McNulty, displaying some of his vast archive. Mon-Sat 12.30-5.30pm. Free.

•20th & 21st January, Bird Box Building, Aberduna, Denbighshire variety of bird boxes to provide much-needed nesting sites at North Wales Wildlife Trusts’ woodland. Drop in for all or part of the session. 10am-3pm. Free.

•22nd January, Jason Fox –Life at the Limit, Venue Cymru, Llandudno SAS: Who Dares Wins star Jason tells the remarkable story of his daring exploits as an elite operator in the UK Special Forces. 7.30pm. £30.50.

•25th January, Circus Starr, Llandudno Town Hall Created for children with special needs, this relaxed circus show features a fantastic array of circus talent. 4.45pm & 7pm. To apply for tickets, call 01260 288690.

WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES

ALL THE FEELS AT THEATR CLYWD!

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, 14th-18th February Lloyd Webber’s fantastic show tells a story of big dreams with some of musical theatre’s most iconic songs including ‘Any Dream Will Do’. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets from £14.

Shark in e Park, 20th-21st February is n-tastic family musical follows Timothy Pope (and his telescope!) from Nick Sharratt’s well-loved trilogy of children’s books. 10.30am and 1.30pm. Tickets from £10.

When Darkness Falls, 23rd-25th February Inspired by true events, this spine-chilling production will draw you into a dark past, revealing disturbing truths and exploring the power of stories. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets from £10.

e Shawshank Redemption, 27th February –4th March Based on the lm classic, this thrilling production examines injustice, friendship and hope behind the bars of a maximum security prison. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. From £10. theatrclwyd.com

SECRETS OF THE PAST On the mend

Repair Cafe Wales wants to create a culture of repair and re-use, addressing unsustainable growth in land ll and waste. Events are run by volunteers, who will try to x anything brought to them! Visitors are encouraged to join in and learn how to x things themselves too – enjoy a cuppa and chat to your neighbours while you wait. Cafes are held monthly at Colwyn Bay, Conwy, Denbigh, Mold, Ruthin and Rhyl. See repaircafewales.org

NT Live: e Crucible, 26th January A group of young women in Salem nd no one is safe from suspicion. Screened live from the National eatre, Arthur Miller’s dark parable of power stars Erin Doherty and Brendan Cowell. 7pm. Tickets £14.

NT Live: Othello, 23rd February Wed in secret, Desdemona and Othello crave a new life together, but unseen forces conspire against them. With Giles Terera (Hamilton) and Rosy McEwen ( e Alienist). 7pm. Tickets £14. theatrcolwyn.co.uk

Shows for all at Rhyl Pavilion

e Legends of American Country Show, 12th February Featuring three fantastic singers, a superb live band with an authentic Tennessee sound, and a stage set that will transport you to hand-clapping, toetapping Nashville. 7.30pm. Tickets £25.

e Jungle Book, 23rd February Filled with original music and bags of comedy, join Mowgli and his friends as they try to outwit a slithering snake, some cheeky monkeys and the erce Shere Khan! 2pm. Tickets £16 (child £12). rhylpavilion.co.uk

The Jungle Book was written nearly 130 years ago, in 1894, by Rudyard Kipling for his first child

TAKING THE BREAKS

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 25TH

•25th January, Welsh Wrestling, Pavilion Theatre, Rhyl Get ready to rumble as Welsh Wrestling brings its body-slamming live family entertainment show to town! 5-7pm. Tickets from £11.

•2nd February, Introduction to Bike Maintenance, Drosi Bikes, Llangollen Learn about safetychecking, removing wheels and fixing punctures, cleaning, lubricating and more. 6-9pm. Tickets £45.

•3rd February, Bird watching Walk on the Alaw Estuary, Anglesey As seen on Iolo’s

e BetVictor Welsh Open, one of snooker’s most historic tournaments, will be staged in Llandudno for the rst time between 13th-19th February, featuring a eld of over 70 players including the top 16 seeds. Many of snooker’s greats have lifted the trophy, and Joe Perry added his name last season when he beat Judd Trump in Newport. For programme and prices see venuecymru.co.uk

Wild Wales, join North Wales Wildlife Trust to watch for wildfowl and waders at this beautiful island location. 10.15am-1pm. £3.

•5th February, Comedy Club, Theatr Clywd, Mold Enjoy a night of stellar stand-up headlined by Anglesey’s own Kiri PritchardMcLean. 7.45pm. £10.

•5th February, Social Ride, Alpkit Store, Betws-y-Coed Whether you ride a gravel, mountain or ebike why not come and enjoy the fantastic trails around Betwsy-Coed with a group of likeminded people? 10am-2pm. Free to join, but please book in advance via Eventbrite.

•11th February, The Night Sky Show, Venue Cymru, Llandudno The astronomer and author VirtualAstro uses amazing visual e ects combining science fiction and science fact in a fun and enthralling show. 7.30pm. From £25.

JAN – 11TH FEB

DID YOU

NORTH WALES WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 11TH-17TH FEBRUARY

HEADLINING AT VENUE CYMRU

•11th February, Coastal Foraging Taster, Castle Dyke Street, Flint

reconnect with nature on a guided walk along the coast, finding and tasting wild ingredients – food for free in the Welsh countryside! 10am-noon. £20 (child £10) via Eventbrite.

•12th February, Nick Beer 10k Memorial Race, Llandudno Commemorating the life of the Llandudno athlete, the race starts and finishes on the Promenade and passes over the scenic Great Orme. Noon.

Entry £23 via Always Aim High Events.

•15th February, An Audience with Iolo Williams, Village Hotel, Ewloe Iolo

one of the UK’s best-loved wildlife presenters. Find out about his life and passions at this event, which includes a charity auction. 7.30pm. £20.90 via Eventbrite.

•16th-18th February, The

Jon Richardson: e Knitwit, 19th January Jon’s whip-smart comedy unleashes his frustrations with everyday life. 8pm. Tickets £26.

David Walliams’ Demon Dentist, 2nd-5th February Strange things are happening in Al e’s town… Various times. Tickets from £19.

Sister Act: e Musical, 13th-18th February Featuring an all-star cast and inspired by Motown

and disco, this must-see show warms the soul. 7.30pm. Tickets from £28.

e Cher Show, 28th February – 4th March Turn back time with this outrageous new musical! 35 smash hits portrayed by three artists. 7.30pm. Tickets from £20. venuecymru.co.uk

Family fun at Wrexham’s Stiwt

Afternoon Tea & e Railway Children Return, 21st January Shake-o those winter blues by enjoying this heart-warming family lm accompanied by teatime treats. 1.30pm. Tickets £10.

Cartoon Circus Live, 21st February Enjoy award-winning international artists, traditional slapstick, illusions, puppets, prizes and surprises! 1.30pm. Tickets £8.50.

Welsh Wrestling Night, 22nd February Join in the fun – championship matches, rumble showdown and tag team chaos! 7pm. Tickets from £9. stiwt.com

Rock out!

•17th February, Abel Selaocoe & Sinfonia Cymru, Theatr Clwyd, Mold Expect an energypacked fusion of Abel’s Africaninspired music, Tabakova’s Cello Concerto, exhilarating improvisations by Abel’s trio Chesaba and more! 7.45pm. Tickets from £10.

Frank Turner & e Sleeping Souls, 25th January In lockdown the punk folk hero’s livestreamed gigs raised £300,000 for small venues, earning a Music Venue Trust award. 7pm. Tickets £35.75.

Bad Manners, 24th February Remember that ‘Can-Can’ on TOTP? Buster Bloodvessel and his crew return with ska favourites. 7pm. Tickets £25. tivolivenue.com

BIG DAY OUT FOR MINIS

Wirral Minis’ Annual Run from Bromborough to Llandudno takes place on 15th January. Setting o at 9am, the route travels along the coast and up the Great Orme, where the views from the top across Snowdonia are amazing. Afterwards, the cars park up on the Promenade, allowing time for photos, lunch and even some sales shopping! It’s open to classic and modern Minis and each car will display its own special plaque. Entry £10 via buytickets.at/wirralminis

Playing to the Galeri

André Rieu in Dublin, 7th & 11th January Blast o the New Year with André and his Johann Strauss Orchestra, who will delight you with popular classics, party tunes and beloved waltzes. 1.30pm. Tickets from £8.

Met Opera Live: Fedora, 14th January A screening of Giordano’s opera about the princess who falls in love with her ancé’s murderer, packed with memorable melodies, show-stopping arias and explosive confrontations. 5.55pm. Tickets from £12. galericaernarfon.com

DID YOU KNOW?

Cher turned down the part of Thelma in cult movie Thelma & Louise

Join Forager Jim to

is

Addams Family, A Musical

Comedy, Llangollen Town Hall Everything changes for the family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s ‘normal’ boyfriend and his parents. Various times. From £10 via TicketSource.

Ronnie Scott’s All Stars: e Ronnie Scott’s Story, 2nd February Celebrate London’s world-famous jazz club with live jazz classics, narration and rare archive photos and video footage. 7.30pm. Tickets from £15.

Aladdin, 17th-20th February Grab your magic carpet and take a ride to Old Peking to nd fun, laughter and song in this classic pantomime. 7.15pm (plus 2.15pm matinee Saturday and Sunday). Tickets from £10.

Sensational snowdrops

From the rst shirt owned as a child to the latest national team replica, fans love football shirts. ‘Shirt

Stories: A Shirt by Shirt History of Welsh Football’ is an ongoing exhibition at Wrexham Museum telling national and club history via shirts from 1958 and 2022 World Cup quali ers, kit worn in the 1993 Women’s International and top sides. Free. wrexhamheritage.wales

WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES

Thrills and trills at William Aston Hall

High Jinx Magic, Illusion & Circus Show, 23rd February A fast-paced family show lled with amazing tricks, grand illusions and crazy circus thrills, performed by Michael Jordan and the High Jinx dancers. 2pm. Tickets from £12.50.

Myths and Legends, 26th February Join Wrexham Symphony Orchestra as they transport you through a world of legend, from Tintagel to the Hall of the Mountain King. 3pm. Tickets £10. williamastonwrexham.com

In February, Wrexham will have some stunning displays of snowdrops – a sure sign that spring is on the way. Enjoy the fresh air at Chirk Castle’s Pleasure Ground Wood which will boast a carpet of the delicate white owers. Look out for Erddig’s special snowdrop: the doubleheaded variety, a rare treat. Snowdrops will bloom on the elevated west front of the house, with sweeping views of the estate as a backdrop. Details at nationaltrust.org.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 19TH-26TH FEBRUARY

Dive into some woodland folklore with Woodland Classroom at the fascinating Park in the Past near Caergwrle. On 14th January Identifying Trees in Winter will show you how to identify bare trees by looking at buds, bark and shapes. 10am-3pm, £40 including camp re lunch. e Winter Foraging Walk on 26th February through ancient woodland at Chirk Castle will guide you on the hunt for the best wild foods winter has to o er. 10am-1pm, £30. woodlandclassroom.com

•19th February, Ruthin 5k and 10k Run, Ruthin Leisure Centre These popular road courses pass through beautiful countryside before returning to the leisure centre. From 8.15am. Entry from £16. Call 07769 958671 to register.

•22nd February, Druid Stones Guided Walk, Menai Bridge

Join North Wales Wildlife Trust for a walk around this small woodland, and explore the beach below the bridge. 10amnoon. Donations appreciated.

•24th February, LDN Wrestling, Venue Cymru, Llandudno Top American wrestling stars smack down against the best of homegrown talent and fans’ favourites in rip-roaring entertainment for all the family. 7.30pm. £20.

•25th February, Whitney, Queen of The Night, Willam Aston Hall, Wrexham An unmissible evening celebrating the music and life of an iconic singer with a sensational cast and nostalgic hits. 7.30pm. From £27.

•26th February,

Wrexham Glyndwr University has an exciting range of arts and crafts courses this January and February. Learn Ceramics rowing or Hand Building from professional ceramicists, or methods of studio screen printing on Introduction to Printmaking. Oil Painting covers the basics of mixing colours, surfaces and brush choice. Or, if you’ve ever wanted to fashion silver, join the Jewellery course at beginner or intermediate level. Full programme at glyndwr.ac.uk

Departures from 11.30am.

•Until 26th February, Sean Harris: ‘Conference of the Birds

– The Voice of the Curlew’, Ruthin Craft Centre Sean uses animation to re-imagine two iconic bird species: the curlew and the great auk. Tues-Sun, 10am5.30pm. Free.

St David’s Day, Bala Lake Railway Visit the home of Alice the Little Welsh Engine and celebrate St David’s Day with free travel if you live in North Wales and a reduced fare for others.

Sitting just offshore, nestled across the Menai Strait in the Irish Sea, Anglesey has been a favourite with visitors for generations. Whether it’s for a weekend escape, a fortnight of summer fun, an actionpacked watersports trip or even the place you lucky few get to call home, the appeal of island life is as strong today as it was when our ancestors landed on Anglesey’s shores.

Throughout history the island has seen a steady stream of incomers – from the first inhabitants whose prehistoric evidence is still being uncovered, to Roman, Norse, Saxon, Viking and druid communities. Links to the past are visible everywhere, with stately homes and stunning castles decorating the breathtaking natural environment.

Plenty to admire

One such place that is well worth a visit is Plas Newydd, ancestral home of the Marquesses of Anglesey and today a beautifully preserved manor house and gardens to explore, owned by the National Trust. Built in 1470 the house is remarkably

intact, having been modified and developed sympathetically over the years, and enjoys stunning views across the Menai Straits. Another superb structure to admire is Beaumaris Castle, one of the finest castles in Wales, built by Edward I over a 45-year period. Funding delays and the distractions of invasions and battles kept getting in the way and it was never entirely finished. The ruins are still an incredible testament to the stonemasons of the time and are now classed as a World Heritage Site, drawing historians and castle fans from around the world.

The wild side of life

Those seeking more ‘active’ attractions will enjoy Anglesey Sea Zoo on the south coast. It claims to be the largest aquarium in Wales and displays over 150 native species, having been opened in 1983 when the owners of a lobster shop realised lobster tanks had become an attraction in themselves! In 2007 it was sold to research ecologists, who have gone on to develop a conservation facility and marine education centre alongside.

Also nearby is Pili Pallas, home to another small zoo, known for its array of butterflies. Bugs, meerkats, small mammals, donkeys and other creatures also keep visitors entertained.

Anglesey has long been a favourite with artists and photographers, drawn by the

dramatic landscapes and beautiful light. So it’s no surprise that it is also home to several artists’ retreats and galleries celebrating the work of local creatives. Oriel Môn, in Llangefni, makes a great family day out: visitors to this art gallery and museum can explore the island through the eyes of artists such as Sir Kyffin Williams, Charles Tunnicliffe, Harry Hughes Williams and the Massey sisters. There are also exhibitions covering Anglesey’s remarkable past.

Of course, no stay is complete without a visit to the island’s amazing beaches, be it the cosy coves of Porth Dafarch, the lively shores of Rhosneigr or the vast expanses of Newborough. There’s a coastline for everyone on this small but perfectly formed island.

Plas

Beaumaris Castle Castle Street, Beaumaris LL58 8AP

Anglesey Sea Zoo

Brynsiencyn, Llanfairpwll LL61 6TQ angleseyseazoo.co.uk

Pili Pallas

Penmynydd Road, Menai Bridge LL59 5RP pilipalas.co.uk

Oriel Môn Rhosmeirch, Llangefni LL77 7TQ

When it comes to top spots across the Shire patch, the one everybody returns to time and again is the wild and wonderful island of Anglesey

Isle be back!

Beaumaris: surely the loveliest of Wales’ many wonderful castles

MID WALES WHAT’S ON Ben Hur on bikes

A uniquely wacky event, the World Mountain Bike Chariot Races take place on 14th January in Llanwrtyd Wells. Special chariots built using traditional Roman steel, vulcanised rubber and welding techniques have been commissioned for the event, designed to be pulled by two mountain bikes, and will race against each other and the clock to determine the 2023 World Champions. The winning team will have to demonstrate exceptional skill and courage, and must coordinate as a single unit to overcome all challengers along the mile-long course. The event is open to teams of three – two riders and one charioteer – and the entry fee is £25 per team. green-events.co.uk

All your own work

Aberystwyth Arts Centre has some great craft sessions this January and February. Try Pottery for Beginners, which covers the main techniques you’ll need to progress in ceramics. Screen Printing concentrates on using water-based inks on fabrics,

whilst

Drawing and Digital Animation will show you how to design and animate your own characters using traditional techniques. Finally, Black and White Photography focuses on composition and the traditional technique of developing and printing images in the dark room. Five weeks for £50-£95. Full programme at aberystwythartscentre.co.uk

Cool runnings

Fancy working off those extra pounds post-Christmas? Then grab your trainers for the annual walking or running Reservoir Roundabout Challenge in the Elan and Claerwen Valleys on 7th January. The six dams offer a wonderful backdrop for the 12 or 20-mile event which covers open and challenging upland terrain. The route is waymarked in parts but map-reading skills will also be required. All successful finishers receive a certificate and drinks and refreshments are provided. Entry is £15 and must be booked via sientries.co.uk

Dinosaurs in the dark

Now kids everywhere can experience the fun of a night at the museum, no matter where you live, thanks to National Museum Cardiff’s online sleepover, Dino Nights!, on 11th-12th February. Take a virtual torchlit tour and meet some of the friendly dinosaurs roaming the building. Design a Dino-mask, before settling down for a film before bed. In the morning join a yoga class that’s fun for all the family. Tickets £5.58 via eventbrite.co.uk

Repair and share the love

Repair Cafe Wales has a mission: to tackle the growth in landfill and waste and create a culture of repair and re-use. Events are run by volunteers, who will try to fix anything that is brought to them – and encourage you to learn fixing skills for yourself too. Enjoy a cuppa and have a chat while you wait. Cafes are held regularly at RAY Ceredigion in Aberaeron, The Activity Centre in Montgomery and Presteigne Youth Centre. See repaircafewales.org for details.

DID YOU KNOW?

Roman chariot races involved seven laps of the ‘circus’ (ring)

WHAT’S ON MID WALES

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 4TH-29TH JANUARY

Fun at Aberystwyth Arts Centre

Mother Goose, 6th-21st January

This hilarious pantomime is full of festive fun – think spectacle, magic, slapstick comedy and great songs. A perfect feel-good tonic! Various times. Tickets from £14.

Looking For Me Friend: The Music of Victoria Wood, 7th February A funny and touching

tribute to this much-loved national treasure 7.30pm. Tickets £23.

An Evening Without Kate Bush, 11th February Howl with The Hounds of Love and dance on the moors with Wuthering Heights! Sarah-Louise Young pays glorious homage to the music, fans and mythology

On screen and stage at Builth Wells

NT Live: The Crucible, 26th January A group of young women in Salem find no one is safe from trial. Screened live from the National Theatre, a witch hunt begins in Arthur Miller’s dark parable of power. With Erin Doherty (The Crown) and

Brendan Cowell (Yerma). 7pm. Tickets from £12.

As You Like It, 29th January

of Kate. 7.30pm. Tickets from £16.

Tom Allen: Completely, 24th February Enjoy Tom’s signature acerbic wit and riotous storytelling as he shares his life updates and gets your opinions on life’s dilemmas! 8pm. Tickets £23. aberystwythartscentre.co.uk

•From 4th January, Free Community Drop-In, Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells Sit in the warm and enjoy free tea, co ee and biscuits, together with free wi-fi and board games to play – all welcome! Noon-4pm.

•From 5th January, Hay-on-Wye Market Hay hosts a vibrant local market every Thursday, o ering artisan goods, organic produce, antiques and much more. 9am-2.30pm.

•22nd January, ROH: Like Water for Chocolate, Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells

The Willow Globe Company welcomes you to Arden to enjoy love, laughter, music and philosophy under the greenwood tree, in this sunniest of Shakespeare’s comedies. 3pm. Tickets £12 (child £6). wyeside.co.uk

e angel in the room

Verrocchio’s masterpiece Tobias and the Angel is on view at Oriel Davies Gallery, Newtown until 5th March, on loan from the National Gallery. Alongside are works by several artists in response. Tue-Sat 11am-4pm. Free. orieldavies.org

Larks in the park

Furry friends are especially welcome at Powis Castle in February, when they can enjoy a paw-some trail designed just for them, while you admire superb views across the Severn Valley. 10am-4pm. nationaltrust.org.uk

Expanding horizons

Two abstract exhibitions are running until 4th February at MOMA in Machynlleth.

Colin Williams: Assemblage is a series of sculptures combining colour and careful construction in a playful yet challenging way.

Stephen Kingston: Flux presents painting on steel and aluminum in an explosion of colour. Until 28th January, catch the work of Young Welsh Artists. Free. See moma.cymru

•26th January, Arts

‘

£6.

£15.

•29th January,

28th January, Supersonic Queen, The Albert Hall, Llandrindod

A screening of The Royal Ballet’s captivating modern family saga, where emotions spill out through cooking in startling and dramatic ways. 2pm. From

Society Mid Wales & Borders Lecture, Royal Oak Hotel, Welshpool

Gordon of Khartoum and the Power of Art’ explores why George Joy’s painting of the death of General Gordon defined how the British Empire was remembered. 3pm.

Wells Sing along to your favourite anthems with this five-piece live tribute performing all the hits. 7.30pm. Tickets from £15.

Dyfi Winter Warm-up, Machynlleth A British Cycling event from Corris Craft Centre into Dyfi Forest for a 12, 20, or 28-mile route on tracks and forest roads. 11am. £29.

DID YOU KNOW?

Tom played the First Doctor’s companion in audio plays based on Dr Who

Colin Williams

WHAT’S ON MID WALES

e stars are out at Mwldan

Zoe Lyons – Bald Ambition Tour, 19th February Zoe explores the funny side of her midlife crisis, including buying a sports car, having a brief marital separation and running an ultra marathon that really didn’t end well! 8pm. Tickets £16.

Catrin Finch and Aoife Ní Bhriain, 25th February Welsh harpist Catrin and Irish violinist Aoife form a virtuoso duo, exploring a musical world of creative possibility, challenge and discovery, inspired by the cultures of their homes. 7.30pm. Tickets £22.

Musical delights at e Hafren

DID YOU KNOW?

Iolo is a qualified paraglider and scuba-diving instructor too

Iolo Williams – A Career in Conservation, 28th February Iolo has been a familiar face on TV for nearly 20 years, but before that he worked for the RSPB in Wales. He’ll talk about growing up in Llanwddyn and his work. 7.30pm. Tickets from £18. mwldan.co.uk

Max Boyce, 27th January This legendary Welsh entertainer will be performing a musical version of his lockdown poem ‘When Just the Tide Went Out’, along with some of the songs that have endeared him to both young and old. 7.30pm. Tickets £37. thehafren.co.uk

Return to Vienna, 7th January WNO’s Orchestra celebrates the best of Viennese music, including the Blue Danube, Strauss’s rollicking Radetzky March, Korngold’s nostalgic Straussiana: Polka and more. The perfect soundtrack to kick-start the New Year! 4pm. Tickets from £5.

Pictures in stitches History in photos

From 13th January enjoy an unusual exhibition of over 20 stitched pictures - half embroidery, half tapestry, depicting life in Mid Wales. Wyeside Arts Centre in Builth Wells is hosting these vivid and colourful images created by psychotherapist Judith Hemming. Infused with the life of this beautiful and much loved landscape, some pieces are playful and abstract, others more realistic. Judith sees her work as painting with thread in the tradition of ‘naive’ or ‘primitive’ folk art. Free entry. For times see wyeside.co.uk

Aberystwyth Arts Centre has some fascinating and challenging exhibitions this winter. Until 8th January, We’re Not Just Passing Through… is a portrait of the African and Caribbean communities in the UK by British-Jamaican photographer Vanley Burke and Welsh photojournalist Glenn Edwards, the latter focusing

Get creative in Cardigan

Make It In Wales provides a range of craft workshops, all from Stiwdio 3.

Try Free Motion Embroidery & Appliqué on 21st January and learn to use your sewing machine in a new way. Get to grips with Fairisle to knit a cushion using Welsh wool on 4th February. Spread the love and create a beautiful stainedglass heart on 11th February, to give to a special somebody! For a full programme and prices visit makeitinwales.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 5TH-28TH FEBRUARY

•5th February, Lord Crawshaw Memorial Walk, Llanwrtyd Wells Join Green Events commemorating Lt Col Lord Crawshaw’s contribution to walking in Wales. There are two way-marked routes of 12 or 20 miles, and two guided walks of 5 or 8 miles. green-events.co.uk

on Wales’ African community. Showing until 29th January, Refugees from National Socialism in Wales: Learning from the Past for the Future traces the history of refugees who fled central Europe to Wales from the 1930s onwards, drawing parallels with modern-day refugees. Details at aberystwythartscentre.co.uk

•11th February, W4NQ Valentine’s Silent Disco, New Quay Memorial Hall Over-18s can tear-up the dance floor to their personal soundtrack! 8pm. £10. Juniors get a turn on the 10th, 6-8pm (£5). Booking essential via eventbrite.co.uk

•15th & 20th February, The Royal Opera: The Barber of Seville, Aberystwyth Arts Centre A live screening (on 15th) of Rossini’s comic opera. Expect heart-melting serenades, ridiculous disguises and a not-quite-fairytale ending. 7pm. (Encore on 20th, 1pm.) From £11. elanvalley.org.uk

•21st February, Starchitects, Aberystwyth Arts Centre Five children dream of reaching the moon from their bedroom… Family fun with thrills, surprises, dance-circus fusion and digital projections. 2pm & 6.30pm. Tickets from £13.50.

•Until 15th April, A-Z Library Collections, The National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth Eclectic Welsh items arranged alphabetically –everything from manuscripts and printed material to maps and photographs, archives and art to audiovisual and electronic material. Closed Sundays. Free entry.

CHESHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 1ST-13TH JANUARY

•Until 15th January, Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience, Arley Hall A nighttime woodland trail experience filled with magical creatures and wizarding wonders from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films.

Various time slots. From £31 (child from £24).

WHAT’S ON CHESHIRE

•Various dates, Land Rover Experience, Peckforton Castle, Tarporley From 1hr to a full day, the chance to drive the world’s most capable vehicles on and o road is an unforgettable experience! From £99.

ROCK THE BOAT

Step aboard for a night out with a di erence. Chester Boats set sail every Saturday for unforgettable nights on the water. Choose your theme, choose your date, and boogie back in time with us through your favourite eras in music, against the spectacular backdrop of the River Dee. ’90s to Now on 11th February takes in the biggest hits of the last three decades – a nostalgia fest for the download generation! 18th February is ’90s Night to jump around with the Britpoppers, and 25th February is for the dancing queens (and kings!) with a 1970s special: you can dance, you can jive and you’ll have the time of your life. emed dress is optional but most de nitely encouraged! Tickets are £34.50 and include a light barbecue-style bu et supper, a disco with professional DJ and a glass of wine on arrival. chesterboat.co.uk

CROP CIRCUIT

Tatton Park’s Scarecrow Festival is back! Search out dozens of scarecrows in the 50-acre gardens and around the farm. is year's theme is Kings and Queens, so keep your eyes peeled for a right royal mix of famous faces and colourful characters – all made out of straw! e event will run from 11th-26th February, and normal opening times and entry prices apply. For details, see tattonpark.org.uk.

•11th January, In Person Goal Setting & Vision Board, Loco, Nantwich Join Emma Dechoux from Inspired Learning for this 2.5hr workshop which includes self-reflection, coaching and vision board creation to help focus on your goals and plan your success for 2023. 7pm. £35.

•12th Jan (then every Thursday), Let's Walk Nantwich, Nantwich Canal Centre This canal and riverside led walk is an easy way to get active and meet new people, going at a gentle pace. Walks are just an hour long. 10.30am. Free.

•13th January, Sound Bath, Chester Cathedra Angela and Wayne Hassall will narrate, chant and play sounds to vibrate with your body to relax and energise you. Bring wraps and cushions to cocoon yourself. 7pm. £12 (concessions £8).

e annual Quilters Exhibition and Fabric Sale at Nantwich Civic Hall on 15th January is the perfect start to your creative year. ere’ll be traders and exhibitors aplenty, and a show by Kirsty Proctor: ‘Be Happy and Celebrate’. 2023 marks the sale’s 20th year, proving that it continues to be a rm favourite with creative people of all ability levels. Open from 10am-4pm, entry £4. nantwichfabricsale.com

Back to the start…

Jodrell Bank has relaunched its Lovell Lecture series in the Wolfson Auditorium, and on 19th January Professor Christopher Conselice will present ‘Origins: e Big Bang to Intelligent Life and Everything In Between’. Describing the history of the universe, the talk includes the evolution of galaxies and how these reveal the universe’s properties. 7.30pm, tickets £10. jodrellbank.net

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY

Axel Blake arrived on the country’s TV screens in style as Simon Cowell’s golden buzzer on Britain’s Got Talent. His observational comedy paired with his witty charm captivated the audience, propelling him to be crowned 2022 champion. Heading out on the road with his new show In Style, Axel will be at Northwich Memorial Court on 10th February. e show starts at 7.30pm, tickets are £20 from brioentertainment.org

DID YOU KNOW?

Wham!’s popular Choose Life slogan was designed by Katharine Hamnett

© Karen Staniland Platt

WHAT’S ON CHESHIRE

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 14TH-25TH JANUARY

CREATIVE CREWE

Glorious Gala: e International Classic Ballet eatre, 22nd January e best of classical dance, with a selection of ballet favourites and Ukrainian folk dance full of energy and passion. 6pm. £27.

e Smartest Giant in Town, 29th January Family fun based on the bestselling book. 1pm. Tickets £15.

Comedy in the Attic, 10th February Another great line-up from the Lyceum brings Allyson June

DOING BIRD

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest tells the story of Randle P McMurphy, a chancer who feigns insanity to avoid a prison sentence, and how he changes the lives of the inmates of his mental hospital ward. Don’t miss Nantwich Players’ stage adaptation of Ken Kesey’s 1970s’ classic novel, running at the Players’ eatre from 3rd-11th February. Performance starts 7.45pm, tickets £10. See nantwichplayers.com

Gig of the month

Roots at Ebenezer's is a monthly live concert spot featuring Americana and roots music from the UK and beyond. On 2nd February guitarist/ singer Pete Price –who’s been praised by Eric Bibb as a “great musician” –will be on stage at 8pm, tickets £10. Book at ebenezers. co.uk. If you can’t be there, it’s also livestreamed from the Crewe venue.

Smith, Catherine Young, David Eagle and Lee Kyle. 8pm. £12.

Earwig, 16th February Marigold’s research into beetles is unparalleled, but as a deaf woman in 1927 her work is ignored. Earwig combines the world of entomology with Marigold’s ght to be heard amidst appers, jazz and an overbearing husband. 8pm. Tickets £12.50. crewelyceum.co.uk

Inside secrets

Deep in the Cheshire countryside, Hack Green nuclear bunker stayed secret for half a century. Now you can see for yourself the labyrinth of rooms and authentic equipment set for use in a National Emergency. A tour with the museum’s director on 9th January (noon-2.30pm) and 14th January (5-7pm) will show you all you want to know! £18 (child £10). hackgreen.co.uk

14th January & 11th February, Open Events, Reaseheath College, Nantwich A chance to speak to specialist course sta and get information about finance, accommodation, transport and learner support. Courses include food science, floristry, sports coaching and veterinary nursing. Free.

•14th & 28th January; 11th & 25th February, Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Ministry of Yoga, Crewe This four-day course is open to anyone wanting to deepen their practice, to understand how yoga is more than the postures, and for those interested in teacher training. The syllabus is comprehensive and detailed, with practical asana (posture) classes, theory, and pre-reading required before each session. 1-6pm. £350.

•24th January, Chinese New Year Lunch, The Slow Boat, Chester Organised by the West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce, celebrate Chinese New Year – Year of the Rabbit – at this month's Networking Lunch, co-hosted by The Slow Boat. 12.30pm. Ticket price on application.

ROLL WITH IT

Want to expand your cookery repertoire?

Join Jinny at Adlington Village Hall on 14th January for an Introduction to Sushi. Discover the art and fun of making this Japanese classic, including sushi rolls, nigiri, hand rolls and some sushi-inspired salads. Afterwards, dine together with a paired glass of wine. e three-hour class starts at 6pm and costs £60, with all ingredients and utensils provided. Book at cookingwithjinny.com

•25th January, Make Your Own Sacred Blend of Incense, Suzie K at The Secret Garden, Chester An afternoon workshop making your own incense. All materials are provided. 2pm. £20.

•25th January, Psychic & Spiritual Event, The Swettenham Arms, Congleton Clairvoyant Peter Dykes presents three sittings, which involve audience selection, envelope readings and personal messages. 6.45pm. £15.

CHESHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 3RD-12TH FEBRUARY

•3rd February, Ben Ottewell, The Hive, Winsford See Gomez frontman Ben Ottewell up close and personal, with support from Christie Bratherton and Mirage Music. 7pm. £15.

•4th February, Incluso Al Fresco, Lion & Swan, Congleton You'll be greeted on arrival with a limoncello spritz, then the food begins to arrive, with inclusive Prosecco, Italian wines and Italian beer, a DJ and live music. From noon-3pm. £50.

LIVE AND KICKING!

e Live Rooms in Chester has a great selection of original and tribute acts of every genre!

Livewire AC/DC, 21st January A wall of Marshalls and over two hours of high-voltage rock make a show that’s critically acclaimed for its closeness in look and sound to the real thing. 7pm. Tickets £22.

Adwaith, 3rd February An exciting all-female post-punk band from Carmarthen who have had

The pen is mightier…

•From 4th February, Snowdrop Walk, Rode Hall & Gardens, Scholar Green A beautiful endof-winter walk for all the family amid a wonderfully diverse landscape and over 70 varieties of snowdrops, following an enchanting mile-long route (with options for longer or shorter walks). 11am. £6 (child £2.50, under-5s free).

•10th February, EPW! Wrestling, Ellesmere Port Civic Hall Top-class wrestling action suitable for all the family!

7.30pm. £12.

•11th-12th February, Yoga Weekend, Cranage Hall, Holmes Chapel Join Kirstin Yoga for an overnight break, with three yoga sessions over the two days, and plenty of time o the mat to do as you please. Practise in an airy, bright studio; swim in the pool or relax in the therapeutic heat of the jacuzzi and steam rooms. You might choose to curl up with a book, go for a walk – or just sleep! Arrive 8.30am. £245.

DID YOU KNOW?

radio play. 7pm. Tickets £8.

Robert Jon & e Wreck, 9th February Hailing from California, the band bring soaring guitars, infectious grooves and rich harmonies. 7pm. £22.

e Beat ft. Ranking Junior, 25th February Key act of the UK ska revival returns with pop melodies and taut rhythms. 7pm. £20. theliverooms.com

You don’t need to know anything about history to enjoy Jo Bell’s poetry writing workshop ‘Histories’ on 14th January, in the Old Library at the Silk Museum, Maccles eld. Jo will show you how to use history as a tool in your poetry kit, enjoying the new angles and inspiration it o ers. e workshop runs 1-4pm, and tickets are £25 from eventbrite.co.uk

CROWDED HOUSE

Wild about animals?

Is your child in school years 4 to 6? Do they love animals and want to see how they live and adapt to the world around them? If they’re a member of Chester Zoo, Junior Rangers would be perfect for them! e ve-week camp runs every Sunday from 15th January-12th February at 10.30am-noon or 2-3.30pm, £60 per child. Book at chesterzoo. org

Ronald Harwood’s play Quartet is set in a genteel home for retired musicians. Reg, Wilf and Cissy rub along pretty well until their comfortable existence is interrupted by the arrival of new resident Jean –an opera diva and Reg’s ex-wife. Chester Little eatre’s production runs from 14th-21st January and tickets are £10. chesterlittletheatre.co.uk

A TASTE OF CHESTER

Chester Vegan Market is taking over the Town Hall Square again. e event on 15th January will bring together an incredible selection of vegan street-food vendors, artisan bakers, craft brewers, ethical jewellers, small-batch soapers, local artists, zero-waste champions and lots more. Open from 10.30am-4pm, details at veganmarkets.co.uk

Adwaith is the first band to win the Welsh Music Prize twice

chester races returns 2023

WHAT’S ON CHESHIRE

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 12TH-24TH FEBRUARY

THE STAGE IS SET…

e Snow Queen, until 15th January Adventure to the mystical north in this unforgettable tale that celebrates family and friendship. Join little Gerda on her epic journey through the seasons to save her best friend Cei. Various times. Tickets £18.

Faustus: at Damned Woman, 3rd-18th February is gripping drama explores what we must sacri ce

to achieve greatness, in a reimagining of the legend of Faust, who sells his soul to the devil in return for unlimited knowledge and pleasure. Various times. Tickets from £18.

e Rocky Horror Show, 27th February - 4th March e ultimate rock ’n’ roll musical lled with frolics, frocks and frivolity. Recommended age 12-plus. Various times. From £18.65. storyhouse.com

CHEESE PLEASE

e Cheeseyard in Knutsford invites you for another of its famous Cheese & Wine evenings on 20th January. ‘Around the World’ will introduce you to six of the best cheeses paired with wines from all corners of the globe, beginning at 6.45pm with a glass of Prosecco and nishing at around 8.15pm. Tickets are £45, pre-booking is essential. See cheeseyard.co.uk

Let battle commence

•12th February, Bread Making Class, Speckled Hen @ Terra Nova School, Jodrell Bank

This course is ideal for learning the basics of bread making, including malted brown rolls and Irish soda bread, and includes an introduction to sourdough and traditional Italian focaccia. 9.30am. £60.

•17th February, Disco Inferno, Northwich Memorial Court

For all those who dreamed of going to New York’s Studio 54, Disco Inferno is a spectacular all-singing, all-dancing celebration of everything D.I.S.C.O. With crowd engagement and interaction. 7.30pm. £23.

Italy is by far the largest wine producer in the world, and when the Chester-based Wine School of Cheshire presents ‘Italy from North to South’ on 27th January you can learn about – and taste! – some of its most famous wines. e event starts at 7pm, and tickets are £49.95. Book at cheshire.wine

Join in the 50th anniversary of the rst re-enactment in Nantwich on 21st January. A smashing day out starts at 10am with music, plays, pike and musket displays and a horse parade, leading to the all-important Battle on Mill Island at 2pm. battleofnantwich.org.

19th February, The Ashley Hall 3k Run Medals to all finishers, prize money and trophies to the winners and category winners. Take part no matter what your age (5-plus) or ability! Entry £10.

A chance to see Scottish rockers Big Country perform an acoustic set. Alexander’s Live in Chester hosts the supergroup on 2nd February. Expect tracks from e Seer, Steeltown and triple Grammy-nominated e Crossing. Doors 7pm, tickets £30. alexanderslive.seetickets.com

•24th February, 90s Jam Live, Shavington Club, Crewe A full live production including fantastic vocals and light show covering ’90s dance classics. A night not to be missed! 8pm. £15.

•Until 12th March, ‘Cheshire’s Salt Towns; a Glittering Roman Legacy’, Lion Salt Works, Marston, nr. Northwich

Explore why Cheshire salt was so important to the wellbeing of Roman soldiers, how they protected and distributed it, and how the salt was acquired without the need to mine. Entry to the exhibition is free.

Chester’s Storyhouse hits the right notes every time.

DID YOU KNOW? The Faust legend is based on a real person: Johann Georg Faust who died in 1541

BLOOMIN’ MARVELLOUS!

e Floral Pavilion hits it out of the park yet again with an awesome selection of entertainment…

Wrestling Superstars Return, 22nd January Boo the villains or cheer on your heroes in this two-hour spectacle of non-stop action. 3pm. Tickets £17.

A Country Night in Nashville, 27th January Hits from the legends are showcased by Dominic Halpin and the Hurricanes. 7.30pm. Tickets £29.

e Smartest Giant in Town, 3rd & 4th February

A heart-warming tale about friendship and helping those in need, brought to life in a puppet- lled

We are sailing…

musical adventure. Based on the bestselling book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Sche er. Various times. Tickets £19.50.

WHAT’S ON WIRRAL

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 4TH JAN – 24TH FEB

•4th & 18th January, 1st & 15th February, The Irby Club, Irby Listen and dance to the best live Dixieland/Chicago-style jazz from the Original Panama Jazz Band, plus guest musicians. 8pm. Free.

e Verdict, 7th-11th February Frank Galvin is a washed-up lawyer and an alcoholic, when he’s presented with a last chance to redeem himself. A gripping courtroom thriller starring Jason Merrells (Emmerdale, Casualty, Agatha Raisin). Various times. Tickets £28-£34. oralpavilion.com

Making a splash

•17th January, ‘Edwardian Extravagance’, Lady Lever Art Gallery Discover how wealthy women dressed in 1901-1911 with Pauline Rushton, National Museums Liverpool’s Head of Decorative Arts, using depictions of costume in art. 1pm. Free.

Follow the science

Created for children and young people aged up to 14, Eureka! Science + Discovery at Seacombe includes hundreds of hands-on, innovative and interactive activities and experiences based on things you experience in your daily life, including zones exploring the wonderful uniqueness of our bodies, our homes and nature. Open Friday to Sunday 10am-5pm. Tickets £15.95 per person (children aged 1-2 £6.95, under-1s free). Book at eurekadiscovery.org.uk.

Make a resolution to get outdoors more, and visit Wirral Watersports Centre in West Kirby to nd great ways to enjoy the sea. ere’s a range of watersport activities, with courses for all ages and levels of experience, and boat trips exploring the beautiful Dee Estuary and Hilbre Islands. Call 0151 929 7707 for prices, dates and details.

Into the new

Take a pinch of a romantic song cycle, stir in some studio theatre and a touch of jazz, then lter the whole thing through a hessian sack of deep, dark central European folklore… Bag of Bones is Alice Zawadzki’s bewitching new project for Manchester Collective – hear this thrilling performance at Future Yard, Birkenhead on 9th February at 7pm. Tickets from £5. futureyard.org

•19th January, Ceramics for Beginners, The Barn Wirral, Heswall Learn a variety of handbuilding techniques including using moulds and underglaze transfers, stamping and glazing. All materials provided. 10am. £75.

–

•5th February, The Kilkennys, Gladstone Theatre One of the finest folk groups in the world, boasting an array of instruments and all four members singing; the result is a dynamic powerhouse. 7.30pm. £20.

•Daily, Mermaid Trail, New Brighton Based on the legend of the Black Rock Mermaid, who was reported to have appeared to a local sailor. Great fun for families; buy a map guide

•

at various locations in New Brighton. Free.

24th February, Classic Doubles

A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac, Heswall Hall An homage to one of the world’s most revered bands. 8pm. £22.

Mersey Ferries’ fascinating Manchester Ship Canal Cruises sail from Woodside Terminal, travelling under bridges mostly unchanged since they were built over 125 years ago. Spend a day taking in the rich legacy of Victorian architecture and engineering masterpieces such as the Grade II-listed Runcorn rail bridge and the Latchford high-level bridge. Tickets are £46 for a ve to six-hour cruise. For a full programme see merseyferries.co.uk

activewirral.com

DID YOU KNOW?

Barry Reed, who wrote The Verdict, was a medical lawyer

SHROPSHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 6TH-20TH JANUARY

•6th January,

FESTIVAL OF FUN

Walk-in admission starts from £10, with premier badges from £21. Group discounts available. Time of first race tbc.

•12th January,

This documentary film follows champion Portuguese surfer Joana Andrade as she faces her biggest waves and deepest fears, supported by

£7 (student/ child £4.50)

•13th January,

Shropshire Kids Festival returns to Telford International Centre on 18th-19th February, bringing fun and activities for children aged 0-12 all under one roof. Expect obstacle courses, in atables, giant games, dancing, space hoppers, have-a-go music and science, go karts, crafts, musical theatre, circus, Nerf Wars, martial arts and more!

A dedicated under-5s zone caters for younger children, and there’s also a quiet zone for those who prefer a calmer environment.

A family ticket is £59.50; check for early bird discounts at shropshirekidsfest.co.uk

7.30pm. £12.

19th January, The Last Dragons, Ludlow Brewery Enjoy this collection of traditional and original dragon myths from Britain and Asia, brought to life by award-winning storyteller Jason Buck. Suitable for adults and children over 10. 7.30pm. £7.50.

•20th January, World Cinema: Charlatan (cert 15, with subtitles), The Hive Shrewsbury Shrewsbury Film Society presents this 2020 CzechPolish-Irish-Slovak drama, based on the true story of healer Jan Mikolasek, who cured hundreds of people using natural, plantbased remedies, attracting the interest of the Czech government. The film won five awards at the 2021 Czech Lions including Best Film. 8pm. £6.

A regular half-term highlight is Bishops Castle Arts Festival, which this year begins on 22nd February. e festival has been going for more than a decade now, and always o ers a varied and exciting programme of events and activities, most free (althought donations are welcomed!). Expect workshops, talks, exhibitions, music, dance, competitions and open studios. For a full programme see bishopscastleartsfestival.com

PURE GOLD

Spandau Ballet star

Martin Kemp will be taking to the decks at e Buttermarket, Shrewsbury on 4th February to spin the biggest and best hits of the ’80s. e pop icon, who went on to star in EastEnders and numerous lm roles, is renowned on the club scene for his euphoric party nights. So dig out your ’80s garb, grab your dancing shoes and prepare for a night of pure ‘Gold’! From 7pm. Tickets from £15 (over-18s only). thebuttermarket.co.uk

Nature’s voice

On 7th February Booka Bookshop in Oswestry welcomes author Marc Hamer to talk about his new book Spring Rain, a life-a rming memoir about gardens and what they mean to us throughout our lives. Marc’s previous books A Life in Nature; or How to Catch a Mole and Seed to Dust were both longlisted for the Wainwright Prize for Nature Writing. Spring Rain encourages us to tune in to the natural world for consolation and a happier life. Doors 7pm. Tickets £7 (£17 with signed copy). bookabookshop.co.uk

LOTS TO LEARN

Friends of Ironbridge Gorge Museums host a series of talks each year by local historians, museum sta and visiting experts, and the 2023 programme is out now. Topics range from the life of local people to the impact of their work, while on 15th February the debate is ‘What can dialectologists learn from oral history archives: the case of Ironbridge’. www.ironbridge.org.uk

Ludlow Races

Beat the winter gloom with all the fun of the races, at the friendliest racecourse around.

Big vs Small, Sparc Theatre, Bishops Castle

Finnish free diver Johanna Nordblad. 7pm.

MR James Horror Stories, Whittington Castle, near Oswestry Escape the winter weather and enjoy chills of a di erent kind as Justin Soper begins a monthly series of readings of classic ghost stories from the master of horror. Tonight: ‘Lost Hearts’ and ‘The Mezzotint’. Age restrictions apply.

ONE TO TRY!

Human Table

Football – be a player in this classic game brought to life!

WHAT’S ON SHROPSHIRE

Food for thought

Prue Leith, seen gracing our screens on Great British Bake O , has had a distinguished culinary career. In her rst live show, ‘Nothing in Moderation’, which is at eatre Severn on 1st February, she will take the audience through the spills and thrills of life as restauranteur, novelist, businesswoman, TV personality, cooking for royalty and more. e second half will include an audience Q&A, for a chance to ask everything you want to know! 8pm. Tickets £33. theatresevern.com

Charles the Great

Shrewsbury’s most famous son, Charles Darwin, was born on 12th February 1809, and every year a crowd gathers at Morris Hall Courtyard, beside the Bellstone, to raise a glass to the great man on his birthday. Join Darwin Festival founder Jon King at noon, and he’ll lead a guided walk around the scientist’s home town. It’s free, but please book in advance. eventbrite.co.uk

Return to Fawlty Towers

Classic comedy comes to the Telford Mercure Hotel on 28th January with the Fawlty Towers Weekend Show. Basil, Sybil and Manuel will greet guests on arrival and serve afternoon tea – expect some mishaps! More entertainment follows with the Fawlty Towers Dinner Show, and the evening nishes with dancing. Tickets £245 for two include overnight stay and breakfast. comedy-dining.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 20TH-26TH JANUARY

He’s host of e Apprentice: You’re Fired and on our screens with Like Minded Friends and regular slots on Bake

O : An Extra Slice. Now Tom Allen brings his stand-up show to Market Drayton! Expect life updates and riotous stories delivered with acerbic wit. 3rd February 7.30pm. Tickets £23 from festivaldraytoncentre.com

Take your seats for a magical afternoon at the circus on 11th February. Circus Spectacular presents a range of international acts, from traditional circus skills to big production numbers and plenty of comedy. e show ends in a slosh-style nale – so if you’re seated in the front four rows, be sure to take up the o er of a rain mac! e fun starts at 3pm, and tickets are £18.50 (child £17.50, family £68). telfordtheatre.com

•20th January, Needle Felting Workshop, Bayston Hill Memorial Hall A one-day workshop hosted by Shropshire textile artist Maxine Smith. Learn how to combine needle felting and embroidery to create a stunning piece to take home. 10am. £45, includes all materials and refreshments, bring your own packed lunch.

•20th January, Sounds and Storytelling, Silvester Horne Institute, Church Stretton Ranagri is an energetic festival band that combines voices and instruments to create unique and contemporary folk sounds. 7.30pm. £15 (under 18s £7.50).

•21st January, Shrewsbury Repair Cafe, United Reformed Church, Shrewsbury Bring renewed life to old items lying

around the house by dropping them o for repair. The service is free but donations are appreciated. From 10am.

•23rd January, Wildlife Talk – Butterflies, Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms With support from Age UK, this talk is for visitors age 60-plus. 10.30am. £3, please book in advance.

•26th January, Shropshire Chamber Business Awards Launch, Salop Leisure, Shrewsbury The search for the best businesses in Shropshire begins! Entrepreneurs welcome – find out how to apply, sponsorship opportunities and tips from past winners. 5.30pm. Please register in advance.

It’s Tom off the telly!

SHROPSHIRE WHAT’S ON

INCREDIBLE INK

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

27TH JAN - 5TH FEB

•27th January, Tim Garland and Jason Rebello, The Maidment Building, Shrewsbury School

The ‘Life to Life’ tour showcases two of the UK’s most eminent musicians as they present an evening of new compositions spanning the worlds of jazz and contemporary music, performed with stunning artistry. 7.30pm. £16 (concessions £8).

•27th January, Whisky Tasting, The Prince Rupert Hotel, Shrewsbury Keep the Burns Night spirit alive as you enjoy an evening sampling some of Scotland’s finest single malts. 7.30pm. £25, advance booking only.

•28th January, Bee Keeping Workshop, Dorothy Clive Garden, Market Drayton Head gardener Zdenek leads this introductorylevel workshop on the care and keeping of bees, in the new Wildlife Hub. A practical session will follow in spring. 10am. £50.

•1st February, Jam Night, Albert’s Shed, Southwater A weekly jam session in Telford hosted by some of the best musicians in town.

Backline provided, just turn up and play your heart out! All skill levels welcome. 8pm.

A buzz will ll the air at Telford International Centre as Tattoo Freeze gets underway on 4th-5th February. e event attracts top international and homegrown tattoo artists, making it a fantastic opportunity to get inks from some of the very best in the industry.

Trade stands will o er all things tattoo-related and more besides, and the days are designed to be family friendly, with entertainment and music to add to the atmosphere. Open 10am-8pm (Sunday to 6pm). Day ticket £15, weekend £25. tattoofreeze.com

Alice in Shrewsburyland Ghost hunters in residence

On 4th February, the heart of Shrewsbury will be transformed into an Alice in Wonderland escape-room style experience, in conjunction with Clued Upp Games. Teams will receive clues sent to their phones as they dash around

town to solve a mystery, undertaking mad and mischievous challenges along the way. Teams can include up to six adults, tickets are £60 (check for discounts online). Children go free! cluedupp.com

Shrewsbury Prison is one of the top-rated ‘dark tourism’ sites in the country, thanks to its rich history. On 24th February Yvette Fielding and Karl Beattie of TV’s Most Haunted will lead a paranormal investigation there, starting at 9pm and lasting until the early hours. Each experience is as unique as it is spine-tingling. Advance tickets only, £82. mosthauntedexperience.com

FIGARO!

BRING ON THE BARGAINS

•5th February, Historical Shrewsbury Lecture, Bear Steps Hall, Shrewsbury The latest in a series of lectures dedicated to the history of Shrewsbury from 1154-1485, focusing on some of the key personalities, including Joan, Lady of Wales, Dafydd, Prince of Wales, and the arrival of Henry Tudor. 4.30pm. £5 including refreshments.

Hunt for treasures at Oswestry Antique and Collectors Fair on 11th and 12th February. is large fair in the heart of Shropshire o ers a fantastic mix of antiques, vintage, collectibles, architectural salvage, mid-century and decorative items. It regularly attracts over 200 dealers, and is often featured on BBC’s Bargain Hunt. Dogs on leads welcome, free parking, free entry for children, and a reasonable £3.50 (cash only) for adults –what more could you want! jos-events.co.uk

With vocal reworks, scheming lovers and one very busy stylist, Rossini’s Barber of Seville is packed with fun and mischief. From the instantly recognisable cries of Figaro! Figaro! at the start, you’ll thrill to this top-rate production, screened from the Royal Opera House to Sparc eatre, Bishops Castle on 19th February at 2pm. Tickets from £8. sparctheatre.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW?

A quarter (26%) of the British public have tattoos, and most of these are women

WHAT’S ON SHROPSHIRE

It’s going to be gym-tastic!

Team GB gymnasts have had an excellent international run over the past 18 months, and with the 2023 English Men’s and Women’s Artistic Championships taking place at Telford International Centre on 24th-26th February, the opportunity to spectate at a live national event is right on the doorstep! Competition categories include under-18s as well as senior in both men’s and women’s, so there’s a chance to watch the rising stars of the sport as well as seasoned professionals. Tickets start from £18 for adults, £10 for children, and can be purchased from gymdata.co.uk

WHO DUNNIT?

When Sherlock Holmes and his sidekick Doctor Watson are asked to help a music hall performer in distress, they nd themselves confronted with a dastardly plot of national importance. Rain or Shine eatre presents this family-friendly performance at Bridgnorth’s eatre on the Steps on 3rd and 4th February. Expect music, mishaps and plenty of comedy. 7.30pm. Tickets £14 (child £9, family options available). theatreonthesteps.co.uk

A special appearance

Ex-Special Forces, star of TV’s SAS: Who Dares Wins and Inside e Real Narcos, and author of chart-topping bestseller Battle Scars, Jason ‘Foxy’ Fox will regale the audience with his remarkable story on 2nd February at Telford eatre. ‘Life at the Limit’ is a story of Special Forces soldiering and courage on and o the battle eld. 7.30pm. Tickets £29. telfordtheatre.com

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 5TH-19TH FEBRUARY

Running up that hill…

WESTON WINTER

WANDER

Enjoy some fresh air on a stroll around Weston Park on 8th January. is seasonal guided walk o ers the opportunity to appreciate how artfully Capability Brown and his fellow landscapers used coniferous and deciduous trees to create a spectacular year-round setting. e event starts at 10.30am, and tickets can be bought online for £10 or on the gate for £15. weston-park.com

Dedicated marathon runners can tackle one of Shropshire’s most epic routes with the Icing on the Cake trail run on 4th February. e run, which has an elevation rating of 5/5, begins in Carding Mill Valley and continues over the Shropshire Hills and the Long Mynd. Due to the terrain, runners are expected to carry certain essential supplies. Details and entry information at codrc.co.uk

•5th-7th February, Cinderella, Shawbury Village Hall Shawbury Village Players present their winter pantomime to delight audiences young and old. Have a ball as you follow the adventures of Cinderella, Buttons and Prince Charming, and not forgetting those Ugly Stepsisters! 7.30pm, plus Saturday 2pm. £10 (child £5).

•12th February, Ellesmere Farmers’ Market This independent market is held on the second Sunday of each month. A small group of local food producers are committed to o ering the benefit of shopping locally, and with a delicious array of food and drink.

•15th

•18th February, The Jeremiah’s, Ludlow Assembly Rooms The four-piece Irish folk band perform a wonderful mix of new songs and a well-chosen catalogue of traditional tunes. 7.30pm. £20.

•19th February, Tree Planting, Severn Gorge Countryside Trust Join in this free, fun family activity in the beautiful woodlands. Bring suitable footwear! 10am-1pm.

February, ‘My Shropshire Year’ – Photography by Andrew Fusek Peters, The Cut Visitor Centre, Shrewsbury Admire nature in all its glory with an inspiring display of work by the renowned wildlife and landscape photographer, followed by book signing. 7-9pm. £5 (Shropshire Wildlife Trust members £3).

DID YOU KNOW?

Tokyo 2022 was the first Olympic medal win for the GB women since 1928

Food, folklore and fun

At the heart of Shropshire and one of the county’s most popular foodie destinations, Ludlow has a reputation for being a cultural and quirky town

Lacy, with the great tower and bailey added at later dates and the town walls only being constructed in the 13th century. The positioning of the fortification

side at regular music events, food markets and book festivals amid a packed calendar of community activities.

The town is home to a busy arts centre and cinema, the Assembly Rooms, as well as small galleries and art venues. It has primary schools, a secondary school, sixth-form college and a small hospital as well as various sports teams and good transport links. At one time it had three Michelin-starred restaurants and eight AA Rosette winners to its name, and to this day it is a treat for those looking for some first-rate gastronomy.

Once you’ve sampled the plethora of local producers, the options for working off the excess are many. Ludlow is on a host of walking and cycling routes and the great outdoors is never far away in this bustling, pretty little town.

With nearly 500 listed buildings, in ancient stone, honey-colour timber and traditional brick, it is no wonder Sir John Betjeman once described Ludlow as “probably the loveliest town in England”. It is an accolade that seems well deserved once the town is properly explored.

Ludlow wears its history on its sleeve, with Medieval, Tudor, Norman and Georgian architecture all perfectly preserved in the pretty central area. This proud past is a testament to the spirit of the locals: withstanding invasions and occupations over the centuries to create a rich mix of heritage that is celebrated today.

Towers and traders

Ludlow is the largest town in south Shropshire so has always had an important role locally, from its first mention in 1138 when it was known as Lodelowe – although Ludlow Castle appears to have been built prior to that in around 1075. This impressive structure was the brainchild of Roger de

made it a vital border defence in various skirmishes between England and Wales, and later meant the town was well placed to take advantage of merchant trade routes and developing industry. During the 14th century the town was known for its metalworkers, shoemakers, butchers, drapers, mercers, tailors, cooks and bakers, and to this day Ludlow embraces independent businesses and artisan producers, of which there is a thriving community.

Festivals and food

Residents of Ludlow like a festival and held their own every year, from 1960 until only recently. While Ludlow Festival itself may have disappeared there’s ample opportunity to experience the town’s artistic and creative

Ludlow

Ludlow

Ludlow

The

The half-timbered houses drew the eye of Poet Laureate John Betjeman

If you have a show in the Shire area, we can send a reviewer – and your show can appear on these pages too! Email editorial@ shiremagazine.co.uk Get in touch!

Discover what Shire’s team thought of the concerts, live events and theatre shows they’ve seen over the past couple of months at local venues

LIGHTS & PANTO TRAIL, BEWILDERWOOD

BeWILDerwood’s first-ever Christmas lights and panto trail was a delight. The wooden walkway is easy to navigate, from the gingerbread men and candy canes at the start right through to Father Christmas waiting to greet us in his sleigh. Even the teens joined in looking for the silly snowmen and giant Christmas pudding! Reaching the huge disco balls and the outdoor theatre, we stopped for the 10-minute pantomime, then warmed up with bangers in blankets and hot chocolate with cream and marshmallows. The path through sparkling Christmas trees led to a lake full of coloured reflections. It was all so magical, it was easy to believe the snow flurries were real! AB ★★★★★

DARKSIDE, THEATRE SEVERN

Pink Floyd tribute Darkside have embodied the music of Britain’s greatest prog rockers since 2005. Tonight marked a return to Shrewsbury for both the band and me, and they were spellbinding, from the first shimmering chords of opener ‘Shine On You Crazy Diamond’. All the musicians are very accomplished and at home with the repertoire, and seemed really in tune with each other.

There was minimal interaction with the audience, which was actually quite refreshing. We were there to listen, they were there to play.

The first half saw mainly early catalogue stuff, from the magical days of founder Syd Barrett, pre-David Gilmour. After the interval, things turned more upbeat, with some of the iconic later songs, reknowned for their complex structure. Great visuals added to the spectacle. Cariss Auburn was mesmerising taking Clare Torry’s part on ‘Great Gig in the Sky’. Other highlights were ‘Wish You Were Here’ and ‘Another Brick in the Wall’. With the audience invited to stand and dance, everyone got into groove. Darkside certainly did our heroes justice. CB ★★★★

ALADDIN, FESTIVAL DRAYTON CENTRE

The Big Tiny company produces first-class pantos for smaller venues and its Aladdin was the perfect fit here. With lively song and dance routines, excruciating puns and laugh-out-loud tomfoolery, plus a glimmer of romance, it was cheering seasonal entertainment. Elaborate sets, costumes and special effects provided the wow factor throughout the wacky storyline, with a magical flying carpet earning gasps from the audience. Henchmen Sergeant Pepper and PC World were suitably dastardly, and spirited dances to ‘Inky Pinky

MAMMA MIA THE MUSICAL, VENUE CYMRU

There’s always a danger when you go to see a show you’re familiar with that it won’t live up to your expectations. Mamma Mia was a big challenge for the touring production that passed through Llandudno recently. But within minutes it was clear this fast-paced, all-action show was going to be at least as entertaining as the movie, if not more.

The strong cast reprised much-loved roles with exactly the right amount of familiarity balanced with their own interpretation to make it more than just a replica, and some excellent stagecraft helped

the story flow from one setting to another. A simple twopart set twisted and turned to give us indoor scenes, outdoor scenes, bedrooms, beachfronts and bars, and strong singers carried the soundtrack beautifully.

By the end everyone was on their feet dancing for the three-song encore, and the cast got a well-deserved standing ovation. KS ★★★★

Parley Vous’ and ‘In the Old Bazaar in Cairo’ worked a treat, as did Aladdin and Princess Jasmine’s harmonies in ‘Our House’. “Teamwork doesn’t make the dream work,” gloated villain Abanaza, seconds before we learned just how wrong he was. JH ★★★

“Great visuals added to the spectacle

“Everyone was on their feet dancing”

“Huge disco balls and a giant pudding”

“The fl ying carpet made the audience gasp”

SOUL SISTER

Best known as Dorien Green from hit sitcom Birds of a Feather, Lesley Joseph is starting 2023 on tour with Sister Act the Musical, calling at Venue Cymru in Llandudno from 13th to 18th February

Lesley Joseph has been appearing on our stages and screens since the 1960s, most famously as the outrageous Dorien, neighbour of Sharon and Tracey in Birds of a Feather – a character she entertained the nation with for almost a decade. At the age of 77 she is still enjoying live theatre even more than television and is delighted to be back on stage in this touring production of Sister Act the Musical.

She said: “If you asked me why I came into the business, it would be because I love theatre. I went to drama school in the ’60s, and it was a very different world then. I grew up doing theatre – I started when I was seven. Theatre was always what I was destined to do, and then gradually television took over. Birds of a Feather came along in 1989 and it has hardly been off air since!

“I love television, I love the opportunities television brings, but if I had to choose it would be theatre, because I love the connection with the audience. With television, you can always do it again, whereas with theatre it’s a question of doing

character is quite strict. It’s the juxtaposition of her strictness and this entirely over-the-top being – you need the two extremes to play off against one another, and quite a lot of sparks fly!”

The religious side of the role came quite naturally, Lesley said. She describes herself as a spiritual person, and particularly enjoyed meeting the Pope while filming Pilgrimage: The Road to Rome for the BBC. She said: “I had half an hour with the Pope and I blessed him and made him laugh. He gave me a medal to celebrate his six years in the Papacy.

“I’ve always had a spirituality about me. I love going into churches. I always light a candle for both of my parents and Linda Robson’s mum, and say a quiet prayer. That’s a spiritual thing more than an actual religious thing. I find churches very healing. They’re a quiet place to sit, contemplate and meditate, and you can come out feeling a slightly better person.”

Uplifting

Sister Act the Musical features a fantastic score by the multi awardwinning composer Alan Menken (the musician behind Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid), which Lesley believes is one of the reasons audiences rave about it.

She said: “I think people love the production because of the great music. It’s very much an ‘audience’ show. You leave feeling so uplifted. I think people will take away a reinvigorated love for live theatre. It’s a production that also says something about community, and that’s one thing that lockdown showed us was important – caring about your neighbours, caring about your friends, and helping those in need. It’s an absolutely joyous musical!”

For anyone hoping to pursue their dream career in acting, Lesley passed on some wisdom from another great theatrical figure, Quentin Crisp. She explained: “Quentin was very flamboyant and wonderful, and way before his time. He was an amazing character. He used to call me ‘Miss Joseph’. His advice to me was this: ‘Miss Joseph, believe in fate, but lean forward where fate can see you.’ I think that’s one of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever been given.”

Lesleyplays

To book tickets to see Lesley in Sister Act the Musical in Llandudno, see venuecymru.co.uk

The role appealed to Lesley’s spiritual side

“It’s also a production about community, it’s absolutely joyous”

Mother Superior

Well trained

a row

There’s no getting away from the fact that when most people think of Crewe,

they think of trains. And understandably so. During the 19th century, Crewe was the powerhouse of the burgeoning railway network, crucial to the emerging industries of the time.The building of elegant locomotives brought prosperity to the town and created a springboard for major players who would call the place home for decades to come. Rolls-Royce, Bentley, BAE Systems and Fujitsu, to name a few, all established their businesses in the area.

Although the name ‘Creu’appears in the Domesday Book, the town was planned in 1843 by Joseph Locke, as a formalisation of the colony that had established itself around the Cheshire railway junction.The

name derives from the old Welsh word ‘criu’, which translates as ‘crossing’. Although the engineering facility is now diminished, the location and infrastructure mean a 72,000-strong population is still settled here, drawn by the easy access to Manchester, 35 miles north, and London, reached in just 90 minutes by train.

Losses and gains

Having such strong transport links brought its dangers during World War II, when both the manufacture of aircraft engines at Rolls-Royce and the connections to Liverpool made the town a target for air raids. Thirty-five people lost their lives, and in one particularly significant attack, 50 homes were destroyed.

The rail companies influenced much of the town’s development. The London and North Western Railway funded the building and upkeep of Christ Church, the school, the doctors’ surgery, a gasworks, waterworks and even a cheese market. It also donated the land that was transformed into Queens Park, now restored to its former Victorian glory.

Claims to fame

Crewe is proud of its past. The Heritage Centre based in the old LMS railway yard boasts three signal boxes and an extensive miniature railway with steam, diesel and electric trains, as well as a British Rail Class

370 advanced passenger train. There is also a Grade II-listed Edwardian theatre, the Lyceum, and a stunning Jacobean mansion, Crewe Hall, which was built in 1615-36 for Sir Randolph Crewe and is Grade I-listed. Today, it operates as a hotel, restaurant and health club, and its landscaped grounds make it a popular venue for weddings.

Crewe is home to Crewe Alexandra football club, nicknamed the Railwaymen. It also lays claim to a crater on Mars: Crewe Crater, named in its honour. One thing’s for sure, the thriving community here certainly believe their town is out of this world…

Crewe Heritage Centre

Vernon Way, Crewe CW1 2DB 01270 212130

Crewe Hall Hotel & Spa

Weston Road, Haslington CW1 6UZ 01270 253333

Crewe Lyceum Theatre

Heath Street, Crewe CW1 2DA 01270 368242

Crewe Alexandra

The Alexandra Stadium, Gresty Road, Crewe CW2 6EB 01270 213014

Few places in Britain can claim a transport heritage to match that of Crewe. But there’s more to the Cheshire conurbation than trains – it’s a lively modern market town

Edwardian grandeur: the Lyceum Theatre

Preserving the past at Crewe Heritage Centre

DID

The Centre gained a TripAdvisor Certificate

APPOINTMENT

As Prince of Wales, King Charles was a regular visitor to the Shire region, attending events in Wales every year and Cheshire, Shropshire and the Wirral often. Many readers had the opportunity to meet him. We are delighted to share your experiences on these pages…

Plenty of Shire readers will remember, or have heard family members reminisce about the investiture of Charles, Prince of Wales in July 1969. It was a massive affair; an open-air stage was built within Caernarfon Castle to host almost 4,000 guests, 3,500 of whom were people who lived and worked in Wales – plus about 2,500 members of the three Armed Forces. Thousands of wellwishers lined the streets of Caernarfon, 500 million watched on television and street parties were held across the UK to honour the young man of 20 who would one day be King.

Amanda Lunt is Experiences and Partnerships Curator for the National Trust, North Region, and met the then Prince in summer 2010 when he visited Quarry Bank, an NT site in Cheshire.

“As President of the National Trust, His Majesty regularly undertook visits to our sites,” said Amanda, who at the time was

DID YOU KNOW?

The King is an honorary member of the Royal Watercolour Society, and his paintings have sold for more than £1.5 million

When Froncysyllte was named Welsh Village of the Year for 2008, locals had another surprise in store when Charles visited to see it for himself. The then Prince visited a cafe and a pub, took a boat trip and enjoyed a song from the Fron Male Voice Choir.

With Amanda Lunt at Quarry Bank

Heritage Manager. “This was a visit at short notice and my role was to greet His Royal Highness and take him around the gardens, the Apprentice House and the Mill building. I also introduced him to some of our team and to schoolchildren from Styal primary school. We were about to embark on a large multi-million project and this was a pre-visit to view our plans for the future.”

The visit lasted around an hour. “I’d met the Prince a number of times before,” Amanda told us, “and on this visit he reminded me we had met just months earlier in Worcestershire, in a very different setting, with his wife, then the Duchess of Cornwall.

Depth of knowledge

“Whenever I’ve met him, I’ve been struck with the depth of his knowledge about what he is seeing,” said Amanda. “He is clearly well-briefed and takes pains to understand what he is going to be looking at; he asks relevant and searching questions, and is clearly passionate about the work we do. I am also struck by his ability to engage with staff on topics that relate to their work, which can be a broad range of things. He helps to set them at ease, which I’ve witnessed when he is engaging with the general public.”

In January 2018 the King returned to Quarry Bank, this time to see the results of the redevelopment work. This time it was a longer visit of almost two hours. Amanda said: “We visited newly conserved parts of the site, Styal village, the school, gardens and the restoration works within the woods. As we walked through the woods together we had a conversation on our work as a charity, and also discussed the importance of woodland habitats and their role in climate action.

“It was a damp, cold January day but despite being a largely outdoor visit his enthusiasm to meet with people and spend time with them was undiminished.”

Taking it all in

King Charles started a week-long visit to Wales in summer 2021 at the headquarters of Iceland Foods, in Deeside, where he had a tour of the company’s sustainability projects, community initiatives and reaction to the pandemic and panic-buying. He was welcomed by Lord Lieutenant of Clwyd, Harry Fetherstonhaugh, and introduced to founder and executive chairman, Sir Malcolm Walker, chief executive Tarsem Dhaliwal, managing director Richard Walker and head of commercial Paul Dhaliwal.

Later that day he went to Wockhardt UK in Wrexham, in the light of the company’s key role in the Covid vaccination rollout. Wockhardt has been instrumental in the manufacture of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine and carries out the ‘fill and finish’ stage of the process, which involves dispensing the vaccine into

vials ready to be sent out across the country.

Previously, in July 2019, Harry Fetherstonhaugh had escorted the then Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall during a visit to the Royal Welsh Showground, in his role as show director.

“The King has always greatly supported countryside affairs, rural employment, agriculture and wildlife,” said Harry, who is now President of the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society. “He has a great knowledge of topics like hedges and drywalls. He usually spends three to four hours at the show, taking it all in; he was very keen on the forestry section.

“At this show in 2019 he unveiled a beautiful statue made of horseshoes, the eyes of which are made from two small horseshoes donated by Queen Elizabeth personally, from two of her horses.”

Named Fire & Passion, the life-sized sculpture of a Welsh cob stallion by Robert Rattray is a striking addition to the Royal Welsh showground, and took the sculptor four months to construct, using over 700 horseshoes.

Their Royal Highnesses also officially opened a new garden at the International Pavilion, created specifically to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Charles’ investiture as Prince of Wales, met with exhibitors, stewards, traders and showgoers, and presented a number of prizes in the judging rings.

Royal reception

“King Charles is always warmly received, as he is pretty comfortable everywhere,” added Harry. “They both found it easy to talk to everyone at the show and clearly very much enjoyed

In September 2012 the King started his visit to Ludlow with a tour of St Laurence’s Church to see work on a Jubilee garden, then headed to the Enginuity museum, before visiting his charity In Kind Direct in Telford

looking at stock and meeting people.”

The King’s interest in farming has naturally led him to visit one of the country’s best known agricultural colleges, Reaseheath, near Nantwich, in south Cheshire, on 14th February 2005.

King Charles, who had announced his forthcoming marriage to Camilla Parker Bowles just days before, was cheered by staff and students who were delighted to be among the first in the country to offer him their best wishes.

Reaseheath florist Sarah Parker pressed home the romantic theme by presenting His Majesty with a heart-shaped, hand-tied bouquet of 30 Black Baccara roses. She wished him and Camilla every happiness and was rewarded with a handshake and a chat.

“It’s not every girl who gets wished a Happy Valentine’s Day by the Prince of Wales!” she said at the time.

The whole village greeted him when he visited Llanymynech in 1980, and he met with Joy Hill, aged 80, who after retiring as head steward at Chirk Castle worked for a further 13 years at Bodnant Garden

Unveiled: the Fire & Passion sculpture at the Royal Welsh Showground

Opening the new garden at the RWAS International Pavilion

©

Glyn Evans

©

Ieuan

Williams

Unscheduled stops

Five year-old best friends Lucy Jones and Cerys Owen went one better by giving Prince Charles a hand-made engagement card and boldly asking him what he had bought Camilla for a Valentine’s present. Describing the card as “terrific” and laughing, Prince Charles replied, “I’m not letting on about that!”

His Majesty made several unscheduled stops at Reeseheath, talking to service engineering apprentices in the college’s workshops and to staff, who came out of their offices to line his route. He broke away from his accompanying party to chat to 18-year-old horticulture student Jonathan Marriott, a BTEC First Diploma student, who with course members had prepared and planted a welcoming border with shrubs from the college’s RHS Gold Medal-winning garden.

Jonathan joked with him that the students, aged 16 to 18, had been out in the cold, snow and rain to complete the project in time!

Food standards

Still at Reeseheath, the then Prince, who is Patron of the Specialist Cheesemakers Association, spent two hours attending an event organised by the Food Standards Agency. His visit focused on the success of two FSA-sponsored initiatives: specialist cheesemaking training for environmental health officers, and food safety management awareness for cheesemakers. He was accompanied by Sir John Krebs, Chairman of the Food Standards Agency.

His Royal Highness took the opportunity to try his hand at practical cheesemaking and then met small groups of environmental health officers and cheesemakers to discuss how shared understanding of food safety management has helped to develop relationships between the two parties.

Landing on the college sports pitches in a Sikorsky S76 helicopter, he was received by the Vice Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire, Viscount Ashbrook, and Viscountess Ashbrook, Reaseheath principal Meredydd David and chairman of governors John Platt.

David had been awarded an OBE in 2009 for services to local and national further education and was made a Fellow of the Royal Agricultural Society in 2017.

“Everyone at the college was thrilled by the visit,” said Meredydd.

King Charles was present at the birth of both of his sons, William and Harry, which broke Royal precedent

“As well as being extremely interested in the courses we offer at the college, Prince Charles was in a very relaxed

and happy mood and asked several members of staff and students if they were enjoying their time here.”

The King is well known for his interest in environmental issues, and this led to his visiting the Rhug Estate, near Corwen, only a few years ago, in April 2018.

Royal Warrant

Estate

HRH the Prince of Wales for Rhug Organic Farm, which incorporates the farm, the wholesale meat business, the cutting plant, the butcher’s counter at Rhug Farm shop and Rhug’s stall at London’s Borough Market.

The warrant states that the farm is certified, “by command of His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, to supply organic meat to His Royal Highness’ households”. Rhug has been supplying meat to the Royal households for the past six years, including Welsh lamb, chickens, turkeys and bison meat.

“It was a very special day when the King and Queen Consort visited the Rhug Estate, and they were wonderful; greeting and talking to as many people

owner Lord Robert Vaughan Newborough was delighted to have been granted a Royal Warrant of Appointment to

At Reeseheath College: florist Sarah Parker presented a posy to the future King

DID YOU KNOW?

Presenting principal Meredydd David with his OBE; left, hands-on in the dairy-processing halls

In 1978 King Charles opened the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and a year later visited Ironbridge to mark its 200th anniversary

Impressed by their environmental programme, July 2018 saw King Charles given a lesson on newts, pond dipping and how to sell 20,000 eggs a year by the children of Ysgol Sian Sior in Llandudno

and staff as possible,” Lord Newborough told us. “It was one of those days you never forget. We had a good laugh when we were demonstrating the sheepdog putting the hens to bed in their shed and things didn’t quite go to plan!

“The King talked to people with broad knowledge of country life, and everyone enjoyed meeting them. The Queen Consort was also a wonderful support to him on the visit, talking and laughing with everyone she met.”

Animal welfare

This was not the first time the two men had met. “I had previously hosted him when he opened our farm shop in 2013,” explained Lord Newborough. “Also at the investiture in 1969, and more recently at

the board of directors of the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society, when I accompanied the King and the then Duchess of Cornwall,” said John. “It is always a pleasure to have their company. They are so close to rural matters, and take a significant interest in what happens. They are very clever at making you feel very much at ease with them.

Buckingham Palace at a gathering of Royal Warrant holders. “Once, on a farm tour, we spoke and shared our belief in trying to do what we could to help the environment and produce food in the most sustainable way. We discussed animal welfare issues and planting hedgerows, and many other things to do with farming organically.”

Rhug Farm is self-contained and a true ‘field-to-plate’ operation, applying the highest standard of sustainability.

Significant interest

When we asked John Davies how many times he’d met King Charles over the past 20 years, there were so many he couldn’t list them all! “At Highgrove, the Royal Welsh Show, Buckingham Palace, various locations in Pembrokeshire, and other parts of Wales as well,” he told us.

“There were two occasions, in 2012 and 2019, as chairman of

“The King is always interested in other people, always keen on rural charities. When I was chair of the rural charity Tir Dewi, which helps farmers and farming families in crisis, he supported us with a significant donation, and has asked me on every occasion since how things are with the charity. He also invited me to Highgrove to meet with representatives of the other charities he supports through the Prince of Wales Countryside Fund.”

John found that the King’s brief was always well-read; he was always very knowledgeable, and more than accommodating to go off-script or go off the itinerary. He added that a huge amount of humour surrounds the King in his discussion and dialogue, which is what makes everyone feel so comfortable in his company.

“The sense of duty and obligation is played out at every visit, and exceedingly well,” he added.

Now that the title of Prince of Wales has passed to Prince William, we may expect fewer visits from King Charles to the Shire patch. But his affection for Wales, as well as the rural communities in Shropshire and Cheshire, will doubtless bring him back many times in the future.

With the future Queen Consort at the opening of Rhug Farm Shop in 2004

Greeting John Davies at the Royal Welsh Show in 2013

Vauxhall’s Ellesmere Port plant received the Royal seal of approval in 2009 when the then Prince met workers and representatives of the UK motor industry and was given a preview of the new Astra and taken on a tour of the production line

Food&Drink

WOODWORKS CAFé wins the treble

Satis ed customers of the Woodworks Garden Centre Café in Mold have propelled its hard-working team to the top in the ercely competitive Tripadvisor awards –for the third time

Woodworks Garden Centre Café has been announced as a Tripadvisor 2022 Travellers’ Choice Award winner, based on reviews and ratings from customers. The award celebrates businesses that have received great reviews from travellers around the globe on the Tripadvisor site over the last 12 months. The Woodworks Café stood out by consistently delivering positive dining experiences to customers, and it is the third time it has won.

Situated in the town of Mold in the heart of the North Wales borderlands, the Woodworks Garden Centre Café is the perfect place to enjoy a bite to eat with family and friends. Be it breakfast, brunch, lunch or one of their spectacular afternoon teas, the café offers a varied and delicious menu.

Commenting on the award win, Fiona Coke, manager of the Woodworks Café said: “I’m immensely proud of the team at the Woodworks Garden Centre Café. To win one Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice Award is a great achievement, but we’re delighted to have won it a third time, especially considering that the last two years have been so challenging due to Covid restrictions.

“At Woodworks Café, the whole team is focused on providing excellent levels of service as well as serving top quality dishes using locally sourced ingredients. For this to have been recognised and rewarded by our customers makes all the hard work worthwhile.

“We look forward to continuing to deliver excellent levels of customer service, which includes table service, and ensuring everyone has an enjoyable time, whether they are coming in for a quick coffee or enjoying a long lunch with friends and family. Thank you to our wonderful customers for leaving us their reviews on Tripadvisor!”

“Congratulations to the 2022 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Winners,” said Kanika Soni, chief commercial officer at Tripadvisor.

“The Travellers’ Choice Awards recognise the best in tourism and hospitality, according to those who matter most – your guests. Ranking among the Travellers’ Choice winners is always tough — but never more so than this year as we emerge from the pandemic. Whether it’s using new technology, implementing safety measures, or hiring

outstanding staff, I’m impressed by the steps you’ve taken to meet travellers’ new demands. You have adapted brilliantly in the face of adversity.”

ON THE MENU

The Woodworks Café serves a range of menu options – from hearty breakfasts to a variety of lunches and daily specials, to freshly made cakes and afternoon tea, as well as a first-class traditional

Sunday lunch. Both vegetarian, gluten and dairy free options are available.

Meals can be enjoyed in outdoor gazebos, subject to the weather, surrounded by the beautiful and lush plants and flowers of the Woodworks Garden Centre or inside the café by the cosy fire when the weather changes.

For those who are more pressed for time, simply order your favourite meal as a take-away, or select sandwiches and other convenient snacks from the refrigerator section in the Woodworks Garden Centre gift shop.

A catering option is also available for anyone planning events, with the café offering a selection of freshly prepared platters of sandwiches, savouries and cakes.

Booking a table is easy and quick and can be done on the Woodworks website at woodworksgc.com or by calling 01352 752555 and choosing extension 3.

ABOUT WOODWORKS

The Woodworks Café is part of the P&A Group comprising Zest (zestoutdoorliving.co.uk), a leading national supplier of award-winning sustainable, timber garden products, the Woodworks Garden Centre, P&A Pallets & Packaging, and St Andrews Business Centre for leased and virtual offices.

The full Woodworks!

“…consistently serving top quality dishes using local ingredients”

The team at Woodworks

The perfect choice for a special celebration

It wasn’t so long ago that South African wines had a terrible reputation. During the Apartheid era the country’s vineyards suffered from lack of investment, and because it was difficult to trade internationally they were supported by the South African government. As a consequence, many winemakers become rather complacent and began focusing on quantity rather than quality. After Apartheid ended, investment poured in, transforming the whole industry, which is now very much focused on premium wines for export.

Despite the latitude, the Winelands benefit from cooling ocean breezes that mitigate the heat. Combined with very high levels of sunshine and mainly winter rain, the climate is very good for quality winemaking. At the heart are the vineyards of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. The focus here is on big, full-bodied red wines, including South Africa’s unique Pinotage, but on some more exposed hillsides quality Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and South Africa’s most important white variety Chenin Blanc thrive. Further south is the cooler (by South African standards) region of Elgin, which produces fantastic wines of Burgundian style. Having just returned from visiting these Winelands I can vouch for what a fantastic experience it is. The ‘wine tram’ is unique and great fun. Here are some fantastic wines we sampled from the cellar door that you can buy here.

Kanonkop Kadette Pinotage

Kanonkop are very focused on Pinotage, and being located in one of the warmest

parts of Stellenbosch their wines are intense, concentrated and full-bodied. Majestic Wine £12.99

Meerlust Merlot Meerlust are at the opposite end of Stellenbosch, much nearer to the cooling breezes coming off False Bay. Their wines retain that fullness of body we associate with South Africa, but they combine that with a definite French hint. Tanners Wines, £22.50

Stellenrust Barrel-Fermented Chenin Blanc, Stellenbosch Chenin (or Steen as the locals call it) was for many years totally dominant in South Africa. On the palate it has real weight and a long finish.

Superb wine. Tesco, £14

Iona Chardonnay, Elgin This wine gives the famous wine villages of the Cote d’Or a run for their money, and it’s much better value. Careful use of oak creates a wine of great balance with a long and intense finish.

Momentum Wines, £23.99

Why not join us for a celebration of South African wines at the Lion & Pheasant Hotel, Shrewsbury on Friday 31st March? Book online at localwineschool.com/shropshire/ south-africa-usa/

Just back from a tasting trip to the Winelands of South Africa, our columnist Gary Carter from Shropshire Wine School talks to Shire about the huge change in the country’s wines

Kanonkop goes for Pinotage in a big way

Franschhoek

Simon Doyle is one of Anglesey’s top chefs - he’s known for his traditional local foods with a zippy bistro flavour. After travelling the world and cooking in some famous kitchens he came home to Wales, together with patisserie specialist chef Nia Doyle, and established Harrys Bistro at Henllys Hall in beautiful Beaumaris as one of North Wales must try top eateries.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Simon’s Welsh Rarebit Scone with Sundried Tomato Butter (makes 4 large or 8 small scones)

“Here’s a real Welsh favourite to make at home, with the bonus of Sundried Tomato Butter, so versatile in use and easy to keep in the fridge”.

Ingredients: Method:

• 225g self-raising flour

• 75g salted butter (chilled and grated)

• 1 egg

• 2 tablespoons (tbsp) milk

• 75g Welsh cheddar cheese

• 2 tbsp hot mustard

• 4 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 4 tbsp ale

• Pinch of salt & pepper

Sundried Tomato Butter

Easy to mix and will keep in the fridge for weeks. Once made it can be used for lots of recipes.

100g sundried tomato

250g soft butter

• Place the sundried tomatoes with the oil into a food processor. Blend until it resembles a puree.

• Add the butter and blend again it’s a smooth paste

• Refrigerate until needed.

• Preheat oven to 220ºc.

• Place flour and butter into a mixing bowl. Rub the butter into the flour until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.

• Add 2/3rds of the cheese and a pinch of salt and pepper to the flour mix.

• Mix the mustard, Worcestershire sauce & ale together. Set half of this mix aside to brush over the scones later and whisk the milk and egg into the remainder.

• Add the liquid mix to the dry ingredients and stir. It should come together as a slightly sticky dough. Do not overwork. Add more milk or flour if needed.

• Roll out on a floured surface until 1½ inch thickness. Cut out using a cutter or cut into square shapes roughly 2 inch by 2 inch.

• Place on a baking tray with greaseproof paper. Do not place them too close together. Brush the tops with the remaining mustard mix and sprinkle over the remaining cheese.

• Place in oven for 8-10 minutes. They should be golden brown on the top and on the bottom.

• Serve warm!

“Simply serve the two together as a snack or as a light starter.”

Pick of the Producers

A local award-winning ice cream maker has launched a new product range and taken over a popular venue after scooping an acclaimed national title

Last year was a busy one for Helen Holland and the team at Môn ar Lwy, based in Bodorgan, Anglesey, and 2023 is shaping up to be no different. Having won the prestigious Welsh Food Enterprise Award for Best Food and Drink Producer at the Royal Welsh Show, the family firm went on to launch a vegan line of ice cream and now runs the venue cafe at Oriel Môn in Llangefni. With chef, trainer and new business partner Lloyd Treadway at her side, the duo has called it Sitrws (‘Citrus’), after their zest for life.

Didknow?you

The average number of licks to finish a scoop of ice cream is 50.

Môn ar Lwy is all about family and friendship. As well as the support of her sons Osian and Llyr, the dairy’s main producer, her former classmate Hazel and friends Gwion and Olwen Davies are all key members of the team. She thanked them and the local companies and collaborators who have all played a part in the business’s growth. With plans for an ice cream for dogs on the horizon, ex-schoolteacher Helen admits her appetite for innovation is healthier than ever. She is even planning to revive a range of sauces and puddings developed from her late grandmother’s recipe book.

scaling up

Having developed more than 150 flavours over the years using natural ingredients supplied by local producers since 2008 –Bursting Blueberry was the first Great Taste Award – Helen says the construction of their own dairy was a turning point. “That enabled us to scale-up and supply restaurants, convenience stores and farm shops,” she said. “The cafe will allow us to expand further, providing another outlet for our ice cream and sorbets, as well as showcasing freshly baked patisseries. Supporting local businesses and bringing the community to the forefront of all we do – that will always be so important to us.”

The award means everything to Helen

Helen at Oriel Môn beside the statue of Ky n Williams

Best beer boast

A Wirral community pub recently scooped an incredible honour from the brewery that owns it, waites, when it was named as serving the Best Pint in the country

Family-owned brewer and hotel group Daniel Thwaites recently hosted its annual hospitality awards at the North Lakes Hotel and Spa in Penrith. Among the winners was the Rose and Crown in Bebington, Wirral. The much-anticipated Thwaites Hospitality Awards recognise excellence across the company, from Pub of the Year to Best Newcomer, and with a portfolio of 210 pubs and just 11 trophies to be won, the stakes were high.

After a rigorous judging process, the Rose and Crown was crowned the evening’s Best Pint, with landlord James Skinner and partner Isla Thompson accepting their award. A spokesman for Thwaites said: “James and Isla have received the award for their spotless cellar and perfect beer. The quality of the beer is unrivalled and this award reflects the effort, exceptional standards and success of James and Isla.”

The pair said: “We are delighted to win the Best Pint award. It’s a great honour for us and our fantastic team. Beer is at the heart of everything we do and it is amazing to be recognised for our efforts by both Thwaites and Cask Marque.”

Top tipple

Didknow?you

Bebington sandstone was used in the Empire State Building

Andrew Buchanan, director of pubs and brewing at Daniel Thwaites added: “We are very proud of our pubs, and to be able to celebrate and recognise their achievements is incredible.

“All of our winners and finalists have done an excellent job over the past 12 months despite the many challenges the industry has faced, and this is testament to their continued efforts. Given the calibre of the contestants, it’s fair to say our judges had their toughest year yet when it came to choosing the winners.”

James and partner Isla accepting the award

“James and Isla have received the Best Pint award for their spotless cellar and perfect beer. The quality of the beer is unrivalled. This award reflects their effort and exceptional standards”

The Rose and Crown at 57 The Village, Bebington

Holidays

PURE GOLD

Nestled in stunning Herefordshire countryside, Aymestrey

Lodges is a collection of five luxury, traditionally made log cabins dotted around landscaped grounds, offering the perfect retreat for couples and families alike. Choose from a onebedroom, two-bedroom or three-bedroom lodge – all feature their own immaculately maintained hot tubs. Awarded the David Bellamy Gold Award for Conservation, the park has its own small nature pond, Italianate Garden and summer house.

Located on the edge of the Mortimer Forest, Aymestrey is a tiny village with an award-winning pub serving great food. If you just want to enjoy the peace and tranquillity around Aymestrey you can hang up your car keys and enjoy some spectacular circular walks right on the doorstep. There’s also fishing nearby, while three great

golf courses are a short drive away, and if you want to explore a little further afield you have the choice of some of England’s and Wales’ most splendid attractions within easy reach.

The area is a paradise for those who love to visit historic houses and castles and enjoy peaceful country walks. The Shropshire Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that inspired poet AE Housman, the Long Mynd and the Welsh Marches are all on your doorstep. www.aymestreylodges.co.uk

Choose from one, two or three-bed options

Beacon Park Boats is a family business offering five-star boating holidays on the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal, in the beautiful Brecon Beacons National Park in South Wales. All boats available for hire are graded at a luxury 5* rating with the British Marine Federation, and all prices are fully inclusive, including diesel, parking and wi-fi where available. All boats, excluding Robin, are pet friendly and pets travel free of charge.

The team at Beacon Park Boats pride themselves on exceptional cleaning standards, echoed by regular customer feedback, and towels, toiletries, linen and cleaning products are provided. There are also coffee pods for your on-board Nespresso machine, as well as tea bags and sugar.

All boats have bow thrusters to help you manoeuvre and moor up. For those chilly evenings all have central heating and many boats have woodburning stoves for which the team provides homemade briquettes.

All Beacon Park boats are BMF five-star rated

For novice boaters, Beacon Park Boats supplies a complimentary DVD on boat-handling in addition to a one-to-one detailed handover on arrival – be assured we will not leave you until you feel confident in handling the boat.

If you still don’t feel happy taking the helm, there is also the option of getting your very own skipper, offering as much (or as little) boating assistance as you’d like, to enhance your canal holiday. www.beaconparkboats.com

Luxury accommodation on an award-winning site

“All

“All boats have central heating and many have wood stoves”

World class

If you’re planning to explore the stunning surrounds of the Brecon Beacons, then check out these three holiday cottages, nestled around Llanfoist Wharf on the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal, near Abergavenny. Originally a hive of industry, this private wharf is now part of Blaenavon World Heritage Site and Brecon Beacons National Park. It’s a rural oasis on the wooded slopes of the Blorenge mountain, within walking distance of the bustling market town of Abergavenny. The cottages are in a truly magical place. The beautiful broadleaf woodland setting contrasts with dramatic open views over the canal and surrounding historic villages to the slopes of the Sugarloaf mountain and vineyard. Expect the very finest, from technology to tradition. Leisurely breakfasts are made simple with a Nespresso coffee machine, Dualit toaster and digital radio. Wander into nearby Abergavenny, or explore the mountain

Glansevin has been a retreat and home for people to return to, celebrating birthdays, anniversaries and informal family gatherings for over 30 years. Corporate groups return each year, enjoying the informality, flexibility and privacy of the mansion. Guests receive exclusive use of the property and its private grounds, making it a wonderful place to spend time with family and friends. The mansion is made for celebrating birthdays and anniversaries with plenty of space, including a games room and large sitting room with an open fire. The bar area can be stocked with your favourite refreshments (no corkage fee).

Set in the foothills of the Brecon Beacons, Glansevin is a beautiful Georgian mansion built during the Napoleonic Wars as a family home. Now in its third century as a residence, Glansevin offers you the opportunity to enjoy its splendid rooms and wonderful surroundings for an unforgettable stay.

Hand over the stress

Pass the Keys Shropshire is a new kind of property management company, set up to help manage your property on short-let sites such as Airbnb so you don’t have to. The team will list it, find the guests, look after them, even clean up after them. They provide hotel-quality toiletries, and professional cleaning and laundry service after each check-out. You can keep track of your property via the client portal and check occupancy, earnings, future bookings, and block out dates you wish to use the property yourself.

Providing you with a full range of services will help achieve the maximum return on your short-let property without any of the hard work. Pass the Keys are Airbnb enthusiasts and problemsolvers using a combination of smart technology and good old-fashioned customer service to ensure hosts get the most out of their property. www.passthekeys.co.uk

Glansevin sleeps up to 40 guests, with additional pull-out beds for children. The mansion is a unique and comfortable home, one you can truly make your own. Whatever your reason for choosing Glansevin, we know you’ll have a memorable time. www.glansevinmansion.com

Smithy Park at Abermule, Powys is the perfect location for exploring Mid Wales. The coast is just an hour’s drive through the Cambrian Hills and there are reservoirs, castles and historic towns nearby.

As well as pitches for touring caravans and motorhomes, the park boasts Oak Cottage, which is available all year. This two-bedroomed cottage has been refurbished to be cosy yet practical. The galley kitchen is fully equipped and has a breakfast bar; the utility room has a washer/dryer. Doors from the living/dining room open onto the patio overlooking lawns; for cosy evenings in, there are two large reclining sofas plus TV and log-effect fire. The master bedroom has ample storage and shares a family shower room with the twin room. A second cloakroom makes the cottage ideal for four people. The conservatory is a sun trap, and there is gas central heating throughout. Call 01686 630657. www.smithypark.co.uk

footpaths and the canal towpath from your cottage door. After a day in the great

outdoors, pamper yourself with Gilchrist & Soames toiletries. Make the most of the delicious local produce, with a barbecue overlooking the canal or a sumptuous supper prepared in the hand-crafted kitchen. On those chillier days, cosy up with a Melin Tregwynt woollen throw in front of the traditional wood burner. www.beaconparkcottages.co.uk

Llanfoist Wharf is part of a World Heritage site

TIME TO JUST BE…

This year why not plan an idyllic escape to the country? Get away from it all with a stay at Ruth’s Retreat, in the pretty south Shropshire countryside near Shrewsbury. Ruth’s is a magical place to stay and the perfect antidote to daily stress. Choose from four wonderful properties – a log cabin for up to three people, and three chalets for two.

The small, select site is blissfully quiet. Each property has its own hot tub and garden, and visitors come to relax and unwind as well as to explore the many attractions the local area has to offer. The Shropshire Way is on your doorstep, and the Shropshire Hills close by. For those wanting quality time out, it’s is the ideal getaway. www.ruthsretreatshropshire.co.uk

A secluded gem

TOUR IN STYLE

Wisteria

Tours is a Shropshire family tour business specialising in tailored coach tour visits to gardens and historic homes. Run by sisters Jacky and Sue Burnell, it builds on the business set up by their mother Jackie Crick, who is still involved in tour planning.

Wisteria Tours continues to be a uniquely family firm and regards customers as travelling companions. All share a love of visiting gorgeous locations, travelling in style and staying in elegant hotels. Whether you are a new or returning customer, coming with friends or travelling on your own, they’ll make you feel looked after and welcome. The huge range of tours run through to summer, when the gardens are in full bloom. www. wisteriatours.com

Discover

self-catering in Wales at Tyddyn Sydney Bach, a refurbished and extended Visit Wales 5* garden cottage for two with exposed beams and high ceilings. It has an open-plan kitchen/lounge with spacious double bedroom and bathroom, furnished and equipped to high standards. Wi-fi, towels, bedlinen and table linen are included. The modern fitted kitchen/dining room is well equipped with a fridge/freezer, dishwasher, combination microwave/ oven, gas hob and extractor hood. A good range of table and cookware is provided.

The tasteful lounge has red leather reclining sofas with side tables and brass lamps, a computer desk and chair,

smart TV and DVD player.

Tyddyn Sydney Bach is set in the grounds of a larger cottage between the famous Britannia and Menai Bridge crossings to Anglesey, on the outskirts of the ancient city of Bangor. It is uniquely placed close to the UNESCO sites of Edward I’s castles and the Slate Landscape, and 50 metres from the Wales Coastal Path. Visit Treborth Botanical Gardens, enjoy watersports on the Menai Strait and surrounding beaches, stroll on the restored Victorian Pier, experience Zipworld and climb the Snowdonia mountain range. It’s an ideal base for exploring Snowdonia and Anglesey or just enjoying a romantic retreat for two. Call 01248 355180. www.tyddynsydney.co.uk

WELL DESERVED BREAK

Established in 2022, Well House Cottages have been designed to offer a blend of modern luxury with charming character. If you’re wanting to explore somewhere new or take a break from everyday life, our accommodation presents a sense of home comfort in sought-after locations. Whether you’re planning a weekend retreat or a week-long break, you’ll find activities to suit everyone. Outdoor adventures, fine dining or an evening in, the area provides a host of options from an extensive list of eateries and places to explore .

From the rolling hills of Monmouthshire to the blissful beaches of Carmarthenshire, there is a location for everyone. For those who appreciate hidden paths and mountain hikes and those who crave sea air, the Well House Cottages locations provide gateways to country and coast. Enjoy small town life, enjoy city bustle? Whatever your idea of bliss, with Well House Cottages you can just enjoy. Get in touch to discuss your requirements and one of the team will help you book a brilliant break. www.wellhousecottages.co.uk

YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION – RELAX!

Now the Christmas tree is packed away for another year, thoughts are turning to what lies ahead. A new year brings new adventures, and there is no better place to seek adventure than North Wales. It has it all, from mountain ranges to glorious coastline to peaceful countryside. And Menai Holidays has over 800 carefully selected self-catering cottages across North Wales ready to welcome you for your next adventure. You will be spoilt for choice with holiday homes that cater to every need, including dog-friendly cottages that are sure to keep tails wagging. Take advantage of luxury cottages or holiday cottages with hot tubs, large gardens and sea views to pamper yourself and your loved ones. The familyfriendly cottages are perfect for gathering your loved ones together under the same roof in your very own home away

BEACHSIDE BLISS

Porthllongdy is one of Anglesey’s premier holiday locations.

Established in the 1950s, it is beautifully landscaped with plants and flowers, providing a relaxing, peaceful environment to match its stunning location 100 yards from the beach.

Overlooking Red Wharf Bay, with its golden sands, awardwinning pub and restaurants, it is an idyllic holiday spot.

Whether you enjoy swimming, kayaking, walking or just relaxing, our recently completed luxury holiday cottages – three in contemporary style and a

Pembrokeshire perfection

The team at St Brides Bay Cottages has handpicked an outstanding selection of self-catering cottages in the St Davids, Solva and Porthgain area of North Pembrokeshire. Whether you’re looking for a coastal escape or a cosy rural retreat, you’ll find the perfect cottage for your Wales holiday – and many of the holiday cottages are dog-friendly, too.

St Davids is the smallest city in Britain but not much bigger than a village. It has a magnificent cathedral and Bishop’s Palace, with many small interesting shops, galleries, restaurants and a large tourist information centre. St Brides Bay hosts 16 cottages to suit groups of all sizes and tastes. Solva is probably the most picturesque fishing village in Pembrokeshire, and home to 14 St Brides Bay cottages. Nearby are eight cottages in superb locations around Porthgain and Newgale Beach, one of Pembrokeshire’s most beautiful beaches. www.stbridesbaycottages.com

from home. Or why not book one of the charming log cabins. What are you waiting for? Make visiting North Wales one of your New Year resolutions. Browse the fabulous properties at www. menaiholidays.co.uk or find them on Facebook and Instagram.

traditional barn conversion – each comfortably sleeps four people and makes for the perfect retreat. Being family-run we guarantee friendly service and take pleasure in making sure all our customers have a truly memorable stay. www.porthllongdy.co.uk

Rest up by the river

River

Cottage is a traditional two-bedroom stone cottage, full of character, on the edge of the Brecon Beacons. A converted school, it dates from 1860 and offers stylish, comfy accommodation for up to four people plus dogs. On the River Tawe, with easy access to Craig Y Nos castle, Brecon Beacons and the Gower, it makes for a relaxing getaway or the base for an active walking or cycling holiday.

The kitchen is fully equipped with everything for a comfortable stay. The cosy living room has exposed stonework and a wood/coal burner. The main bedroom is tastefully decorated with a king-size bed; an optional pull-out can be added to the single bedroom. Find River Cottage on various holiday booking websites

Sit and take in the view

A luxury stay for larger groups

The cottages are newly completed

Homes in spectacular locations

“Pamper your loved ones”

The luxury barn interior

“100 yards from the beach”

A character conversion the

Cottages o er rural tranquillity…

“The perfect Brecons base”

Holiday Directory

We all like value for money, and very few travel clubs, if any, can offer the kind of travel lifestyle club benefits found at www.gopackgotravel.com

Set up with members in mind, to give outstanding benefits and incredible value together with industry best service, it is a travel lifestyle club that stands apart from other travel clubs. Deep discounts and outstanding service make this exciting travel lifestyle club something to be seriously considered when thinking of holiday travel. Bookings can be made for anywhere worldwide. To help other travellers readers are also invited to submit their own travel tips. Contact Michael at www.gopackgotravel.com or text him on +44 (0)7510 534 819

The Top Floor at Cantref House, Brecon

The Top Floor at Cantref House is exactly that –the top floor of a three-storey house, with its own entrance separate to the main house and accessed via outside steps. The accommodation sleeps two and comprises lounge, kitchen, shower room with toilet, and double bedroom, and has a visitors’ room with books and leaflets on the area, places to eat and taxi contacts. In the heart of the Brecon Beacons, with views of Pen y Fan and Cribyn, four miles from historic Brecon, The Top Floor is spacious and well equipped for your stay. www.cantrefhousetopfloor.co.uk

Cwmachau Cabins

At Cwmachau Farm, just north of the Brecon Beacons, two luxury cabins, Tynant and Tyncoed, are nestled deep in the meadow. Take in the stunning views of the Honddu Valley from your veranda, unwind in the hot tub or explore the working sheep farm and soak up the scenery. Whether you’re after an active break, or just some time to relax, your hosts Chris and Jackie Davies are full of local knowledge and will do all they can to make your stay enjoyable. There are great walks close by, with views over the mountains. www.cwmachau cabins.co.uk

Pen Y Bryn Barn, near Llangollen

Pen Y Bryn Barn sits on a hill overlooking the Dee Valley, with beautiful views, privacy and space. It has 5* Visit Wales grading and offers three bedrooms, three bathrooms, ample living space, and a desk should you need to catch up with work. With a sauna, wood-burner and a great record collection it is an ideal place to relax and switch off. It’s a half-hour walk to Llangollen for restaurants, pubs and activities. Make the most of the winter offer and pay for five nights, get five half-price! Email antoniask@ btinternet.com. Property details on www.holiday lettings.co.uk

Lake Vrynwy Hotel

Leave behind the hustle and bustle and escape to one of Wales’ most extraordinary lakeside hotels. With acres of RSPB-protected woodland, there are miles of walking trails to enjoy. Venture out to watch the birds and discover waterfalls; it’s also one of the UK’s best areas for mountain biking. With the lake at the centre of everything, it’s a prime location for canoeing, kayaking, sailing and paddle boarding. Alongside sumptuously decorated rooms, the restaurant offers fabulous food – you can catch up with family and old friends or treat a loved one, all with a stunning view of the lake. www.lake vyrnwy.com

If you’ve been craving a break away from it all, this little collection of award-winning boutique cabins and lodges in the heart of Shropshire could be just what you need. This riverside retreat is ideal for families and friends, and well-behaved dogs. Surrounded by 10 acres of greenery, each cosy cabin and lodge has its own private hot tub, perfect for a relaxing soak under the trees. Spacious woodland lodges sleep up to six, with three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a generous kitchen and living area, while cosy cabins with balconies sleep two to four. www.riverside-cabins.co.uk

Riverside Cabins, Shrewsbury

Cycling targets a range of areas responsible for improving our vitality and longevity, from stimulating the cardiovascular system to promoting weight loss. But what’s the exact health profile of cycling, and how can a spin around the park support both your physical and mental health?

‘Cycle for a healthy heart and bank account’, a study in the Lancet medical journal, found that people who frequently cycled to work had a 24 percent lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. The heart is your core, it pumps blood to the entire body, providing every cell with oxygen and nutrition. Cycling is a great way to increase your heart rate and activate those

processes, boosting your brain and muscle function, helping you to burn calories and improving your stamina.

While bikes are the most energy-e cient transport and healthier for the environment, they’re also good for your bank account. Cyclescheme, a provider of the Government’s Cycle to Work scheme, researched the running costs of di erent modes of transport and found that, on average, it costs £3,727 a year to run a car. To cycle it’s just £396, saving you a hefty £3,331.

Saving the pounds – and losing them too Increasing your heart rate with cycling benefits your brain function. It acts as an antidepressant by stimulating the release of endorphins, serotonin and dopamine, and can improve your memory and learning capabilities, as it creates new neurons in the brain.

Cycling is great for weight loss as it can make you break sweat and burn calories. How many depends on a variety of factors like elevation, speed and surface. Mountain biking in the forest, for example, would burn more calories than riding a commuter bike on a cycle path. Either way, it’s a great method of getting your finances and figure in shape.

kissing-gate accesses steps down into Boothsdale, named ‘Little Switzerland’ by delighted Edwardian walkers – great views stretch ahead along the sandstone ridge. Trace the ledged path along the dale’s edge, gaining first a grassy track, then shortly a tarred lane at the modernist Hillside Cottage. Keep ahead on the lane to reach a T-junction, bear left up Roughlow, rising steadily to the junction with Waste Lane. Keep right along Tirley Lane and at the next bend fork right onto the hedged track, signed as the Sandstone Trail for Beeston Castle. From here the full route

If you’ve over-indulged during the festivities, why not walk it o on a woodland trail?

This route from The Ramblers takes you around a peaceful extension of Delamere Forest, well away from the crowds. A mix of back lanes, paths and forestry roads o er extensive views across Cheshire to Wales and some intriguing heritage.

Start: King’s Gate car park, Waste Lane, Kelsall

From the woodland edge of King’s Gate, turn right along the lane to reach the sharp-right bend in 400m. Turn left across the green here, with the pond to your left, directly in front of Lower Fold Cottage, to use a kissing-gate located beyond the strip of holly trees in the far corner. Follow the fenced path through the lumpy environs of Kelsborrow hillfort, created 2,000 years ago. Clear days reveal views across to the Clwydian Hills. Another

Homes&Interiors

Perfect pad on the patch

New research reveals that residents across the Shire patch dream of an ideal ‘forever home’ – a detached, four-bed property with sea views worth £532,000

are more determined to own our ideal property than ever before. In fact, 47 per cent of Brits are actively saving for their forever home, compared to just 33 per cent in 2017. To help achieve this, many are working longer hours, taking fewer holidays, and going out less The study also shows how recent events, including the ongoing cost of living crisis, have impacted our priorities for our properties. For example, whilst Brits still want their future homes to include modern features like bi-folding doors and large windows, buyers are now prioritising good energy efficiency over other luxuries such as a bath, a shed or a summerhouse.

Arecent study of home-buying habits in the North West has revealed that for many people their ‘forever home’ is a detached, four-bedroom property with seaside views. With ample coastline along the Wirral peninsula and stretching for miles along Welsh shores, views are something we have plenty of.

Researchers also found that residents’ expectations of their future homes have changed significantly in the past five years, with prospective buyers now demanding a dedicated study and a kids’ playroom. Buyers are also expecting to secure their ideal property younger than ever before, although this is becoming harder as property sizes shrink and prices rise. The ideal ‘forever home’ is a detached, four-bedroom, two-bathroom property worth £532,000, boasting two receptions, a children’s playroom, a study, plenty of storage space, a conservatory, a power shower – and those seaside views.

Great expectations

The average homeowner in the North West now expects to own their ideal property by the age of 49; in 2017, the average age was 53. The research, which was conducted by Origin, the UK’s leading provider of doors and windows, demonstrates that, as a nation, we

The pandemic has also changed in perspective buyers’ demands in significant ways. Eighty percent of Brits think that outside space is more important in a home now than it was pre-pandemic, whilst 72 percent claim that natural light is more vital than ever. Plenty of indoor space and stylish interiors are also increasingly important to Brits, suggesting that the way we use and view our homes has evolved.

Changing priorities

The shift towards working from home has impacted our preferences when it comes to property location. On average, Brits imagine their forever home to be 20 miles from work – twice as far as in 2017. Plus, homeowners are happy to be further from local amenities than ever before. According to the research, the ideal property is now two miles from the nearest pub, post office, park and doctor’s surgery and almost seven miles from the nearest town. Visit the Origin website to take a closer look at ‘Britain’s Forever Home’.

“Plenty of indoor space and stylish interiors are also increasingly important to Brits, suggesting that the way we use and view our homes has evolved”

A playroom is high on the list for many

Living the dream

*Research conducted by Obsurvant on behalf of Origin among 1,500 UK homeowners, September 2022

Something in the air

With the UK Government’s target to install 600,000 airsource heat pumps each year by 2028, and grants available to homeowners who install green technology, the popularity of this new low-carbon form of heating is increasing. At the same time, only half (54 percent) of UK homeowners are aware of heat pumps, according to a recent study, and many aren’t clear of their options when it comes to incorporating green tech into their heating and hot water system –or of the many regulations that surround this piece of equipment.

Daniel Wilden, renewable product manager for heating expert Alpha considers the all-important factors to think about, including ensuring your new heat pump meets planning regulations.

What is an air-source heat pump, and will it replace my gas boiler?

Many believe it’s an either/or’ choice between a heat pump or boiler, however with a hybrid approach households can tap into the best of both technologies, while also making the most of low-carbon electricity. Heat pumps can also work alongside an oil or LPG boiler for homes that are off the gas grid.

The most common heat pump found in UK homes today is the airto-water type. This has an outdoor unit approximately 1m square and 30cm deep that collects heat from the air and raises the temperature to heat water for your radiators or underfloor heating. The heat pump can also provide hot water to a cylinder for use in showers and taps. It’s an energy-efficient way to deliver heating and hot water to a home as, on average, it uses 1 kilowatt of electricity to produce around 3 kilowatts of

heat – dependent on the size of the system and outdoor temperatures.

Are heat pumps expensive to install and will it save me money in the long run?

The benefit to these pumps is the incredible long-term cost savings they have on your monthly outgoings, especially as the cost of gas continues to rocket and the cost-of-living affects the majority of UK households. As a new and quite specialist technology, the cost of both the unit and installation is a significant investment compared to a standard combi boiler replacement. However, being a lowcarbon energy technology, the running costs are significantly lower. The UK Government is also offering grant funding on air-source heat pumps currently, which sees homeowners receive £5,000 towards the cost of a heat pump, and zero VAT on installing ‘clean heating’.

A discreet unit just a metre

Do I need planning permission?

Air-source heat pumps do fall under the ‘permitted development’ regulations, which is the term used for modifications to your property that do not require formal planning permission. However, to comply with permitted development terms several aspects must be met. The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) accredits contractors that are able to meet the planning standards surrounding the installation of low-carbon energy technologies. It’s vital that you opt for an MCS-certified contractor. As well as having unrivalled knowledge and training on the rules and requirements, they take legal responsibility should anything go wrong. In addition, you must use an MCS-certified installer to be able to claim Government funding.

about Alpha and its range of low-carbon energy

technologies, visit alpha-innovation.co.uk.

Baa, oink, moo! Give a gift of Ewemoo, The wonderful Welsh wonders, To the people who love, loving you, Everyone’s favourite! The Welsh-made Ewemoo footstools.

Offering a range of bespoke footstools in every colour imaginable, these magical and totally unique works of art are a must for any home or office space. From the original sheep foot stools to pigs, cows, bulls & goats there’s a Ewemoo for everyone. There are wonderful natural colours together with a variety of bright & quirky colours. Each foot stool is hand crafted in Wales, with care and attention to details and lots of love. Whether you’re gifting yourself (and who could blame you!) or buying one as a gift, it’s sure to bring a smile to the face of everyone who sees it.

Ask the design panel

With mortgage rates rising, home buyers are going to have to make their budget go further than ever to get the look they want – especially against the blank canvas o ered by a new home. Three design experts give their pointers.

When it comes to making the house a home, and stamping your own style on an entirely blank canvas, where do new homeowners start? Tilia Homes assembled a panel of interior design experts from Claude Hooper, Clayton & Company and Edward Thomas Interiors to share hints, tips and help for first-time buyers. The expert panel have answered a series of questions that can help Shire readers get the look they want for less.

What are some interior design do’s and don’ts for buyers?

Claude Hooper: If there are pieces of furniture you know you need, start looking before you move in. For bigger items like sofas, it’s advisable to try these out for comfort, and don’t forget to ask about delivery – sometimes they can have long lead times.

Clayton & Company: Think about different rooms and what furniture will work well in the space – this will act as the foundation for the rest of your home-styling choices. Create digital mood boards of colour palettes and styles you admire. Before buying lots of furniture, wait until you’ve moved in and have got a feel for the spaces in your home and how you use them. For a first home, you’ll likely want to create multi-functional spaces so may need to make clever furniture choices.

Edward Thomas Interiors: Start scrolling social media. Instagram and TikTok are great resources for current interiors trends and you can find plenty of home bloggers and influencers documenting their interior design journeys. Don’t panic buy! Just because there’s a sofa sale or a piece of furniture is half price doesn’t mean you should go for it. Take your time. Start by gathering smaller essentials like utensils, crockery, cutlery, bedlinen and towels.

What should be the first thing first-time buyers do in terms of interior design when they move in?

Edward Thomas Interiors: Focus on key rooms, places you’ll spend the most time like your bedroom and living room. Knowing you have sanctuaries for sleeping and relaxing will take the pressure off. Kitchens, home offices, spare rooms and bathrooms can all follow.

Claude Hooper: Measure every room, and then measure again! Be confident you’re ordering the right sized items. Then prioritise the pieces you absolutely need, eg sofa, bed, and curtains or blinds.

Clayton & Company: Take time observing your new home and its strengths and weaknesses. For example, which rooms receive the most

natural light? Are there any awkward pinch points? How spacious does each room feel? These seemingly small things are hugely important when it comes to how you decorate and furnish.

How can lighting be used around the home and kept on a budget?

Clayton & Company: Every room should have a main ceiling light, whether that’s a pendant light fitting or downlights. To add more light, which is often a good idea for rooms which lack natural light, opt for table lamps, floor lamps or even a voile.

Claude Hooper: Occasional lighting will instantly create a more homely feel, so consider easy-fit pendants, side lamps and floor lamps for softer lighting around the home.

Edward Thomas Interiors: Lighting often gets overlooked. Good lighting helps a space feel bright and inviting, especially rooms with fewer windows.

Where would you recommend first-time buyers shop for bargains?

Claude Hooper: HomeSense, Argos and Homebase are good places to start, but look at Wayfair too.

Edward Thomas Interiors: Check out TK Maxx, Dunelm, Matalan and Zara Home as well as the bigger department stores such as John Lewis, Debenhams and House of Fraser that have ranges to suit different budgets. Online retailers such as Wayfair do some excellent pieces, and don’t forget the supermarket homeware departments either.

Clayton & Company: High street shops such as Ikea, Wayfair, HomeSense, Next Home and H&M Home all have good ranges. Start looking online, draw up a wish list and then visit the store to look at each piece before you purchase.

And finally…

The last word goes to Tilia Homes’ sales and marketing director, Lizzie Burda. Lizzie said: “Furnishing a blank canvas can be daunting and exciting in equal measure, but our experts unanimously advised not to rush but instead let your style evolve organically.

“It’s important to help new homeowners understand where they can make savings, especially as Government help for first-time buyers, including the Help to Buy scheme, is due to close very soon.”

“Lighting often gets overlooked. Good lighting helps a space feel bright and inviting.”

Harness the sunshine

Solar PV (photovoltaic) systems don’t only help reduce your carbon footprint, they can also reduce your electric bills – and even save you money on travel costs!

PV systems convert sunlight into electricity by passing it through an inverter, which converts DC current into AC current and helps to supply the electricity you use in your house. Excess electricity can be used to heat your hot water via an iboost connected to your hot water cylinder. You can now also store the power you generate in battery form.

Solar panels can be installed on the roof of your home or business, or on a ground-mount system – to be most efficient they should be south-facing. The inverter ideally should be located in a wellventilated space; it can be fitted in a loft. Very little maintenance is required, mainly making sure that the panels are free of debris and that there’s no shade on them.

Feel the benefits

The advantages of installing a solar PV system are plentiful, as the experts at iHeat know only too well. Here are their top reasons to get your home renewable-ready:

• Lowering your carbon emissions

• Saving money on electricity bills

• Enjoying low maintenance.

By adding battery storage you can see even more bonuses such as:

• Protecting yourself against power cuts by storing your energy

• Charging your batteries through the day and running your appliances for free at night, saving money on energy bills

• Making your solar system work harder – instead of exporting power, store it for when you need it.

For most customers the biggest appeal of taking the step towards a greener future is to save money. The energy price cap has risen by nearly £700 a year for the typical UK household. Solar can protect you against these price-hikes. Not only that, solar electricity is a renewable energy source and doesn’t release any harmful carbon dioxide or other pollutants.

Many of iHeat’s solar products have a lifetime warranty and require little or no maintenance, so your installation should give you decades of trouble-free service.

Cut travel costs

As an added appeal, iHeat is urging customers to consider tying their home system with their vehicle needs. All electric cars come with a standard charging cable that plugs into the car, with a domestic plug into a wall socket allowing you to charge your vehicle at home, in your garage or on your driveway. iHeat Ltd can connect the car charging point to a solar PV system or battery storage system meaning

can power up your car for free too.

you

Experts in all things heating for generations, Oswestry-based iHeat is now leading the way in renewable technologies and has added solar PV systems to its range of eco-friendly home solutions.

Many iHeat products come with a lifetime warranty

“iHeat is urging customers to consider tying in their home system with their vehicle needs, meaning you can power up your car for free”

Made to measure

If you can’t find the exact piece of furniture or precisely the right lights to complement your home, Holly Johnson of Holly Johnson Antiques in Cheshire, has another idea…

When looking for new pieces to furnish a home, especially those bigger-ticket items, more and more people are on the look-out for bespoke furniture that can be matched with their existing interior design style. Holly Johnson knows exactly what the benefits of sourcing this kind of item are, having recently introduced the luxury custom-made lighting and furniture brand, Porta Romana, to her Knutsford showroom.

She said: “There’s nothing like finding the perfect lampshade, only to wish the fabric was a slightly darker shade of ivory to match your curtains, or falling in love with the shape of a console table, to discover it isn’t available in the wood you desire.

“We were delighted to come across eco-friendly British brand Porta Romana, which ticks all the boxes for those looking for the perfect bespoke piece for their home. Offering luxury lighting, furniture and mirrors, hand-made using innovative techniques and materials, the business has grown from a small London workshop to designing iconic pieces for homes, galleries, hotels, yachts and film sets.

Infinite opportunities

“Every item is made to order by craftsmen from across the British Isles – highly skilled glassblowers, ceramicists, metalworkers and sculptors. With infinite options for customisation, pieces can be easily coordinated with an existing interior, or even gifted to a loved one as a thoughtful, personalised present. We recently had the honour of witnessing pieces come to life at the workshop in Farnham, Surrey, and it was awe-inspiring to watch first-hand the custom finishes

being carefully applied. Every detail can be tailored to your preferences – tables can be topped with marble, glass, oak, lacquer or faux limestone, and lampshades can be customised by shape, fabric, lining and even trim. All painted pieces are available in any finish you like, or you can choose from the Porta Romana library, from opulent golds to burnished silvers and everything in between. The business is committed to

minimising its environmental impact, and uses sustainable practices across its production, packaging and more. Eighty per cent of its range is made no more than 45 miles from its head office in Farnham.

“We love the fact that we are supporting a British-made brand. Customers can take inspiration from the items we have on display. If you’re not sure where to start, our in-house interior designers are on hand to advise on finishes and fabrics to fit your existing interiors.”

To view current stock, see hollyjohnsonantiques.com

“There’s nothing like fi nding the perfect lampshade, only to wish the fabric was a slightly darker shade of ivory to match your curtains”

Holly and husband Ben

Call in

to the showroom for expert advice from Holly and team

Home is where the hearts are

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, one Cheshire-based designer is bringing hearts and flowers to the fore in her latest range

Artisan textile designer Jan Constantine is leaving no room for doubt with her Love, Hearts and Flowers cushion collection. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, the collection features heart motifs, striking typography and beautiful florals to create sumptuous homewares that exude love.

Jan Constantine, founder and creative director of the brand, said: “From the beginning of my business, my whole collection was based around the word ‘Love’ as well as the heart motif, so this is a very special collection to me. I believe there can never be enough love in the world – it really is the most important thing. Life is always better if there is love in it.”

Like all the products from Jan Constantine, the Love, Heart and Flowers collection is hand-embroidered and, as all classic love stories, it has been designed to stand the test of time. Jan added: “I want these cushions to be handed down from generation to generation, mirroring everlasting love.” janconstantine.com

Tweedies

Tweedies are awardwinning, original, collectable teddy bears and mice made from genuine Welsh and Shetland tweeds and yarns. Individually hand-crafted, each has its own personality. The first Tweedie was made in 2005, and the owners have now decided their days of selling at craft fairs are over. With a large stock of tweed, yarns and cottons, they are continuing until all stock has been used up, and during this time there are some incredible sale prices to be had online at tweedies.biz

Moon Lighting

Moon Lighting is a small independent lighting retailer in Church Street, Oswestry, opposite the Cae Glas park gates. Running the business in this lovely spot are Carol Aitken and Mike Roberts, who know all there is to know about the industry. Carol said: “We show and stock a wide variety of lighting for your home including pendants, semi-flush, wall lights, floor and table lamps, lampshades and occasional furniture, plus all manner of retro-fit LED light bulbs. Our showroom includes the Laura Ashley lighting and mirror collections.”

Visit Moon Lighting at 37-37a Church Street or email moonlighting3737@gmail.com

Ewemoo Crafts

Ewemoo is a new business based in South Wales, specialising in creating wonderful items for the people you love. Handmade in Wales, these beautiful footstools are full of country charm, made of high quality oak-stain wood with a 100 percent cotton twist body. Let EweMoo introduce something gorgeous and quirky into your home. You will find a selection of gifts and decorations on the website that can be delivered from the heart of the country straight to your door. Call 07778 102238 or visit ewemoo.co.uk

Double the options for furniture favourites

Following

Hafren Furnishers’ flagship store in Llanidloes, Powys, just off the A470, has an unrivalled reputation in the industry, and the team there has been helping loyal customers for over 57 years. Now joining the business, a new ‘concept’ store in Aberystwyth, located on the A44, opened its doors in late October 2022. The state-of-the-art showroom is set across two floors – with a vast, modern bedroom studio located upstairs.

The feedback to date has been extremely positive and Hafren Furnishers has received the warmest of welcomes in the Ceredigion vicinity and beyond. The spacious, modern furniture store offers customers the opportunity to browse the very latest furniture collections for living and dining room, bedroom, home office and anywhere else in between.

Leading brands such as Stressless, G Plan, Parker Knoll, Tempur, Sealy and Silentnight are available, to name a few.

The company may be growing but the philosophy remains unchanged: to offer the widest choice of quality furniture at the best possible prices with FREE delivery in England and Wales. Hafren prides itself on high levels of customer service across the sales team, who offer impartial advice, alongside knowledgeable office staff and an expert delivery team.

The Winter Sale now running at both stores continues throughout January, with discounts and savings across all brands. Both stores are closed on New Year’s Day and re-open on Monday 2nd January from 10am. Hafen Furnishers look forward to welcoming customers new and old to the stores during an exciting new year ahead. www.hafrenfurnishers.co.uk

Seeing the trees for the wood

With 45 years of experience, SJF Timber not only has the advantage of that personal touch but a strong commercial sense to extract the best value for its customers – and that includes commercial woodland owners needing support from the SJF team at the forefront of mechanised harvesting. Led by the boss, Simon, who has been instrumental in developing and maximising SJF Timber production, the business is well-established. Simon learned from his father almost before he could walk, and is now pushing the business forward into the 21st century.

High production, high quality SJF Timber offers expertise in woodland management, with a focus on clients’ critical issues and opportunities. The team make sure to provide a sustainable woodland plan, and apply for licenses, grants and support with timber marketing. In forest harvesting, they employ the latest harvesting technologies with highly skilled operators and experienced forest works managers. They deliver high production, high quality at a more than affordable price in a sustainable, environmentally friendly way. SJF also consults on timber marketing, using long-standing, established trade relations to ensure clients get the highest possible value for their woodland return. With daily communications and efficient logistics management, coupled with skilled harvesting teams, the saw mill can rely on receiving a quality product to meet exacting specifications.

Home essentials

For the homeowner, SJF Timber stocks a huge range of timbers, perfect for garden construction or fencing projects, and available in round natural logs or as machined posts. Ensuring no part of the timber goes to waste, the company also sells biomass RHI for heating systems and solid wood fuel – so every scrap of wood product is maximised, saving on costs and safeguarding the environment.

recent expansion, Hafren Furnishers are now successfully trading in two retail furniture stores in Mid Wales

Whether you need help keeping woodlands under control, want to buy timber for your next garden project, or are simply looking to heat your home, SJF Timber in Oswestry is at your service

GreenLiving

MICRO MARVELS

The Tech Tyfu Innovation Hub, at M-SParc on Anglesey, was officially opened by Lesley Griffiths MS, Minister for Rural Affairs, North Wales & Trefnydd. The project, which has been delivered by not-for-profit organisation Menter Mon, with backing from the Welsh Government, will support 13 sites across Wales as growers develop and supply a range of micro-crops commercially.

Vertical farming – growing in tiers, under artificial light and heat rather than in the ground – allows growers to control the environment of their crop, making more efficient use of water and space. The resulting microgreen are rich in nutrients, and have a concentrated flavour that is increasingly popular. The technology also enables produce to be grown out of season, reducing pressure on the food supply chain as well as transport, packaging and refrigeration costs.

Cutting-edge

A pilot programme was such a success with growers in Gwynedd and Anglesey –who were able to supply fresh microgreens to restaurants,

BRIGHT IDEA

The sun is shining on an ambitious North Wales business that is planning to beat the energy crisis by going solar. Ruthin-based development company Turner Bros, which previously turned its headquarters on the Hen Lon Parcwr trading estate into a hub for small businesses, is now planning for a renewable future.

It has had two 10-kilowatt systems installed by Rawson EV Power of Wrexham at Birch House, the site of the former Venue nightclub. With current annual savings at £2,500 –but certain to rise as gas and electricity prices rocket – the scheme could pay for itself in as little as three years.

Gregg White, Rawson EV technical manager, said: “We’ve installed one 10-kilowatt array on Birch House and another on a row of units rented by different businesses. In all, the system

hotels and consumers – that the second phase of the initiative is underway. Project manager Luke Tyler said: “We are excited to open the new Innovation Hub. It will be pivotal in supporting growers through research and development, and horticulture training. From this cutting-edge facility we will trial new crops, growing methods and equipment, working with academic and business partners to explore opportunities for crops and technology. We will also host an equipment library to encourage new growers to take their first steps into vertical farming without prohibitive costs.”

Innovation Hub project officer Molly Poulter said: “The Hub will bridge the gap between research and development and commercialisation, all of which complements our work on the scaleup project. The initial focus will be on supporting the 13 growers. Long term, we plan to help businesses in different areas of farming and agri-technology with their product and system ideas.”

The Innovation Hub features a four-layer, nutrient film technique rack system with a production capacity of 732 plant heads, flood and drain units, grow room and a controlled environment chamber.

should produce about 9,000 kilowatt hours of electricity a year, or enough to power three homes. Ninety percent of that will be used by the businesses here and 10 percent will be fed back into the grid. The initial system we have installed is going to save thousands of pounds a year.”

Gareth Turner, managing director of Turner Bros, said: “It has been something I have thought about for a while but I wasn’t convinced – until now. I’ve literally seen the light. The increase in the cost of energy, especially for a business that isn’t protected by the price cap, made me take the plunge and I’m already seeing a saving. And it’s making us cleaner and greener as well.”

A revolutionary new facility designed to support the farming technology of the future has been launched by Lesley Griffiths MS on Anglesey

“I’ve literally seen the light”

Lesley Gri ths MS (centre) with the Tech Tyfu team

Gregg White, Rawson EV technical manager

Crops are grown in tiered racks

The advantages of solar energy are clear

“It will be pivotal in supporting growers”

Plants&Gardens

New Year…new plans for the garden

Make 2023 the year you do more for wildlife and sustainable living by re-planning and planting your garden, with some expert advice from Reaseheath College

January is here – and it’s time to put those New Year resolutions into practice! If that includes cutting down on costs and living a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle, it’s likely that you’re considering growing your own vegetables – or already do and are ready to try new varieties. There’s also no better time to reassess and re-plan your garden, choose a new planting scheme and do more for wildlife.

Reaseheath College’s Assistant Principal (Land-based and Sustainability) Iain Clarke, who has years of experience in horticulture and commercial vegetable growing said: “There are plenty of jobs you can do in January and February, provided the weather is mild and dry. Even a small plot or patio pot can produce crops. The main thing to bear in mind is that all vegetables hate waterlogged soil, so it’s essential that your plot is free draining and has an open aspect that’s not overshadowed. It’s also a great time to dig, mulch and prune in your beds and borders.”

Iain’s top suggestions are:

TOP TIP

Check your soil type by digging to the full depth of a spade, then rub a sample of the soil furthest from the surface between thumb and forefinger. An open, gritty texture is ideal; if it’s heavy, wet and sticky it is likely to have a high clay content and needs more work!

In the veg plot

• Roughly dig over the plot to allow frost to get down into the soil and help break it up

• Remove all perennial weeds such as thistles and couch grass

• As the ground dries out, incorporate lots of well-rotted farmyard manure or homemade compost to open up the soil texture

• Warm up the soil with cloches in preparation for sowing early crops of broad beans, peas, carrots, beetroot, salad onions, spinach and salad crops

• Chit early potatoes

In the garden

• Begin preparing beds and borders in a similar way, but leave some piles of leaves and brushwood for another month as beneficial insects will still be sheltering

TOP TIP

Clean bird feeders and bird tables weekly with a cleanserwildlife-friendly to limit the spread of viruses. Top up food regularly and provide clean water.

• Prune fruit trees before the sap starts to rise and the buds break. It’s also pruning time for clematis, wisteria, winter jasmine, hydrangea, buddleia, mahonia, evergreen shrubs and climbing and bush roses. Cut out anything that’s dead, diseased or damaged and remove crossing branches.

Indoors

• Sow sweet peas under cover or on a windowsill

• Brighten cooler rooms with pots of cyclamen

• Catch up on TV gardening programmes

• Order seed catalogues or go online to see what’s new from growers

TOP TIP

Pond frozen over?

Gently make holes in the ice to release toxic gasses which can kill fish or frogs. Don’t use force, instead gently place a pan of hot water on the ice.

• Make a bucket list of historic homes and gardens you’d like to visit and check out short break holidays nearby

• Do the Big Garden Birdwatch bird count on 27th-29th January.

Reaseheath College and University Centre Reaseheath, in Nantwich are leaders in land-based education. See reaseheath.ac.uk/horticulture (diplomas and RHS courses), ucreaseheath.ac.uk/ courses (degrees) and reaseheath.ac.uk/ horticulture-courses-adult-learners

Aximaiorro ist ommolut

Love is in the air…

With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, we pay a romantic visit to a local garden with a passionate past

Life, as we know, is not always a bed of roses, but many of the gardens and historical homes across the Shire patch have been the setting for great romances over the centuries. So with hearts and flowers on our mind this issue, we’ve been finding out a bit more about one particular local landscape of love.

Erdigg, at Wrexham, is one of Britain’s finest houses, set on a dramatic escarpment above the River Clywedog. Now owned by the National Trust, its displays tell the 250-year history of the family’s relationship with its servants. Portraits and carefully preserved settings capture life in the early 20th century, while upstairs is a treasure trove of fine furniture and textiles.

It is the garden that witnessed the blossoming of love between two of its occupants just before the World War I – and it’s easy to see why. The 1,200-acre pleasure park, designed by William Emes in the 1700s and now fully restored, is a haven of tranquillity, perfect for romantic riverside picnics.

The relationship that bloomed was ‘below stairs’, between servants Lucy Hitchman and Ernest Jones. Records show the pair fell in love and took strolls around the park and gardens on their afternoons off.

A winter wonderland

If following in the lovers’ footsteps appeals this Valentine’s Day, you’ll be pleased to hear that winter is actually the perfect time to see and

MY LOVE IS LIKE…

Our favourite owering plants that symbolise love and are often overlooked in favour of the traditional rose

Bleeding heart (Lamprocapnos spectabilis)

With its delicate pink-red heart-shaped flowers, Lamprocapnos spectabilis is one of the most romantic looking plants out there. Native to Asia and commonly known as bleeding heart, this species is a member of the poppy family.

Anthurium

Many species within the Anthurium genus of flowering plants resemble romantic hearts in the shape of their leaves and petal-like spathes (large bracts enclosing the flower cluster). The bright red of the heart-shaped spathe adds to the plant’s amorous appearance.

appreciate the structure of the garden at Erddig. Pleached limes, hedges, trained fruit, paths, ponds and walls all take centre stage during the coldest season. Take a stroll to admire its stately old trees. Many are native, while others were introduced when the park was landscaped. Look out for waxcaps – there’s a huge variety of fungi, particularly on deadwood habitats, veteran trees and in the grasslands. Crab apples, sloes, holly berries and hazelnuts offer food for wildlife and later in the season snowdrops and wild primroses begin to appear. Keep your eyes peeled for rare green woodpeckers then too.

ROSES ARE RED…

ese local gardens o er roses in abundance in summer – in red and many other colours! Bodnant Garden, Conwy Enjoy sweeping views of the mountains as you breathe in the scent of 1,500 blooms on the Italianate Terrace. Dunham Massey, Cheshire Around 300 varieties include Rosa ‘Stamford’s Sanctuary’, named after Dunham’s role as a military hospital during WW1.

Powis Castle Hundreds of varieties grow on hoops, tumble at the feet of statues and spill from the borders.

Dancing lady orchid (Oncidium sp.)

Dancing and romancing go hand in hand. That’s why the Oncidium genus, native to tropical and subtropical America, deserves a nod for affairs of the heart. Many species within this genus of orchids are commonly known as dancing lady orchids for their clear resemblance to dancers.

Primrose

The traditional meaning behind the gift of a primrose is “I can’t live without you” or “Our love is eternal.” Generally these little plants are available in spring in bright fuchsia, yellow, purple and white.

Forget-me-not

The humble forget-me-not is often found as a wildflower. Giving someone this this delicate blue beauty is the sweetest gesture of love, as it generally has to be picked from the garden by the giver.

“Made for romantic riverside picnics”

Hard to imagine a more tranquil spot

Erddig makes a romantic day out

© National Trust

© National Trust

© National Trust

Arts&Crafts

12th

ree is the magic number

19th

pet portraits, buildings and more.

21st & 22nd January, Stitch

Art by Danielle Mcintyre A self-taught free-motion and embroidery artist inspired by city and landscapes, Danielle adds her own twist with bold lines and colours.

25th January, Handmade Gifts by Hannah Hannah etches on glass, slate and wood, and creates bauble art, featuring characters from Star Wars, Harry Potter and more.

28th & 29th January, local artist Gill Benjamin Gill is a very popular artist and takes on many commissions.

3rd February, Weaving with Trevor Blackburn Trevor uses various yarns including wool and alpaca to create wonderful woven items.

4th & 5th February - Marie at Earth Deva Quirky gift items, Egyptian-themed jewellery and one-of-a-kind artwork.

9th & 10th February, Silver Eco Jewellery with Sandra Roberts Silver remnants go to make Sandra’s unique pieces.

15th February, Crafty Sisters

The ladies will be adding to their eye-catching jewellery collection, using resin and other materials.

18th & 19th February, local artist Thelma Evans One of our longstanding artists, Thelma paints delicate florals.

25th & 26th February, Jackie at Jewels Jackie makes jewellery and o ers a repair service.

afonwen.co.uk

Sisters Sarah, Rebekah and Rachel White moved to Shropshire from south-west London 18 months ago, and share a house in Shrewsbury. The triplets discovered their artistic talent at primary school, and were encouraged by their grandfather, Alan White, a commercial artist. By the age of 14, they had discovered they could more than triple their success by working together and utilising their individual artistic strengths on a shared piece of work. They describe it as “symbiotic collaboration”.

Art by Three

Sarah explained that they produce a draft sketch and then each sister works on separate parts of a canvas, passing the work from one to the other.

“We all have an individual style, and then a collaborative style that works for the three of us together. As triplets we find we’re generally all on the same wavelength and that comes out when we are working together and can draw on our individual strengths,” she said.

Their subjects range from wildlife and pets to landscapes, still life and portraits, and they work in all mediums including oils, acrylics, pencil and pastels. Digital artwork particularly suits their collaborative style.

They set up their Art By Three business in 2016 and soon attracted interest via commissions and sales. They also featured on the Sky Arts channel as entrants in the Landscape Artist of the Year competition. Now most of their sales take the form of printed products, including greeting cards, pencil cases, purses, clothing, cushions and stationery,

through their website at artbythree.co.uk or on Etsy at etsy.com/uk/shop/artbythree

Going global

Their distinctive artwork sells well in America and as far afield as Australia. Since moving to Shropshire, they have been working with Marches Growth Hub Shropshire, a specialist business support programme, to identify new outlets.

“At the moment we all work four days a week as healthcare booking agents, but we would love to make our art a full-time business,” said Rebekah.

They are looking for investors and considering crowdfunding to aid expansion.

“One goal would be for a large store to use our images on products such as cushions, or we’d love to set up our own gallery and shop selling our artwork. We’re just looking for an opportunity that will work for us all,” said Rachel.

Can your organisation help? Contact the trio via their website above, or by email at artbythree@hotmail.com

Jayne Huskisson

Jayne is a textile artist living on the Isle of Anglesey. Much of her work captures the surrounding landscape with a contemporary twist. Jayne is fascinated by Anglesey’s sea

Three talented sisters from Shrewsbury are hoping their unique style of collaborative art will lead to success setting up their own full-time business

Left to right, Rebekah, Rachel and Sarah

“As triplets we fi nd we’re generally all on the same wavelength, and that comes out when we are working together and can draw on our particular strengths”

AFONWEN CRAFTS

& 13th January, Spinning with Jenni Frost Learn the basics under Jenni’s guidance, using wool from her own flock of sheep to make beautiful scarves, shawls and more.

& 20th January, local artist Tracey Davies Tracey paints from photographs – places of interest,

Head in the clouds

He now lives near Snowdonia. A commissioned officer and instructor in the Air Cadets, he was Commanding Officer of Newtown Squadron, standing down in 2019 to concentrate on his art.

Boots on the ground

Reconnected with his rural roots, he draws on his mountain leader training and passion for the outdoors in his landscape art. He cites JMW Turner, Samuel Palmer, John Singer Sergeant and John Piper among his influences, aiming to capture a “sense of place and time” in each of his paintings.

“Each foray into an ever-changing landscape is a keenly felt experience that I try to express,” he said. “The combination of light, temperature, wind, earth and rock has to be felt. If the viewer can sense this connection, then I will have succeeded.”

Art School, Grosvenor Museum, Chester. From 26th January. Grosvenor Museum is launching a unique series, allowing you to create art in your museum! Join local artist and heritage worker India Hackett for an informal evening of creativity. Try your hand at illustrative art, inspired by our exhibition ‘On Another Level: Exploring the Unique Rows of Chester’. Over four sessions, experience the freedom of mark-making, create your own narratives through expressive painting, and most importantly, relax and try something new. 7.15-8.15pm. £5, booking essential. events.westcheshiremuseums. co.uk/event/art-school

David Finney, online and at selected fairs David was bought a set of acrylic paints at 15 and began to paint with a passion

Stephen Hopper graduated from Liverpool School of Art with a first class degree. He’s had a successful career as an art director working in three of the top ten UK advertising agencies, and two Cheshire agencies. He began painting in 2012, his early work reflecting his military experience. An exhibiting member of the Guild of Aviation Artists, he won the Best WW1 Painting award in the Guild’s 2021 exhibition.

birds; for her they are intrinsic to the character of the coast. With an evident love of colour, and using a vibrant palette encapsulated by a simplicity of line, Jayne paints on silk; her style is naïve yet shows a sophistication and assurance in design with careful execution.

Jayne has work held in private and public collections across the world. She is a member of the International Guild of Silk Painters and the Anglesey Arts Forum. Her work also includes limited and open-edition prints and homeware.

For stockists please see angleseytextileart.co.uk

Email: jayne@angleseytextileart.co.uk

Instagram: @jaynehuskissonartist

Alison Hamlin Hughes

Alison is a photographer based near Northwich, with her own gallery and regular local exhibitions within Marbury Park. Her gallery The Marbury Lady is located at The Design Shed at Blakemere Village, where you will find an array of prints,

Stephen only took up portraiture in 2021 and is working on a series entitled ‘Poets, Saints and Rebels’, depicting a poet, saint and rebel from each country of Great Britain. On commissions, he added: “I avoid painting from photographs, preferring to meet the person and immerse myself in their life story.” His studio is always open to visit, and a warm Welsh welcome awaits. Contact him at stephenhopper.net or call 07802 77984.

canvases and acrylics, with atmospheric photos of Marbury Park and surrounds.

Alison’s camera of choice now is her trusty iPhone, making her gallery a little more unusual and well worth a visit. She has recently introduced a new range of travel photography wall art depicting iconic US locations. Her photographs are not just pictures to look at; many people say they can “feel” them, and could “walk straight into the image”. The gallery is open daily 10am-5pm. themarburylady.co.uk

that has become his life’s work. From selling bird studies, at 25 he turned professional, creating a career as a wildlife artist that has spanned several decades. He has designed cards and homeware, illustrated children’s books, and now adopts a freer, more abstract style that he refers to as more ‘splattery’. See davidfinney.co.uk

Steve Farrer, ‘Ten Drawings’, Mostyn, Llandudno. Until 4th February. For each work in this 10-film series, 50 strips of film were laid side by side to make a rectangle, and a geometric shape was drawn or sprayed onto each. The acetate strips were then linked, starting from the top left-hand corner, joining the bottom of the first strip to the top of the next and so on, until the bottom right-hand corner was reached, to produce the film. The soundtrack is created by the image carried over to the optical soundtrack area. Open Tues-Sat 10.30am-4pm. Free entry.

Stephen Hopper is an enthusiastic hill-walker with a love of aviation, who has now found new inspiration for his art in the mountains of North Wales

Stephen in his studio

PHOTO COMPETITION

ank you so much for all the entries to our latest contest on the topic of ‘Seasonal Scenes’. Lots of you rose to the challenge once again, and we’ve printed several of our favourite shots here. ey certainly capture the beauty of winter in all its guises, from those precious rays of winter sun to the crispness of the rst frosts, and the snow that’s still on the ground as we go to press. But here at Shire we’re looking ahead and anticipating longer evenings and some warmth on the way soon – and with that in mind we’re setting our next theme as ‘Signs of Spring’. e instant you spot the rst snowdrops, new shoots, T-shirts or anything else that signals the changing weather, get out with your camera or smartphone! Email your entries to editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk – and good luck!

By Alison Slater

By Jill Parry

By Julie She eld

By Julie She eld

By Judith Dickinson

By Jill Parry

By Sam Hulse

By Jill Parry

By Sam Hulse

By Sam Hulse

By Julie She eld

By Jill Parry

Phil Jackson, Artist

Pets&Wildlife

ZOO BOOST TO WILDLIFE AND WELLBEING

One year after Chester Zoo was given a near-million pound grant from the Government’s Green Recovery Challenge Fund to create and connect wildlife habitats across the city of Chester, conservationists have revealed major progress in their efforts to recover local biodiversity. The ambitious ‘Nature Recovery Corridor’ scheme – a partnership between a host of organisations including the Zoo, Cheshire West & Chester Council, the Canal & River Trust, Sustrans, the Land Trust and Cheshire West Communities Together – is aiming to restore wildlife-rich habitats between Chester and Ellesmere Port and support declining species in need of urgent help. Local schools and community volunteers are involved and taking conservation action as part of the project, improving access to nature for disadvantaged groups.

On a mission

Now, 12 months since being awarded funding for the project, the team has revealed a number of highlights:

• More than 23 hectares of meadow and long grass that provides essential habitat for pollinators has been established

• 2.5 hectares of canal has been cleared of invasive plants, allowing native wildlife such as otters and kingfishers to thrive

• 250m of wetland has been created to provide habitat for secretive birds such as snipe and water rail

• Reedbeds have been brought under sensitive management, allowing nesting opportunities for migrant warblers

• New pond areas have been created to help aquatic life, including frogs, toads, newts and dragonflies, as well as providing a water source for mammals such as foxes and badgers

• Hedgerows have been restored, providing nectar in the spring for bees, and berries in the winter for birds

• 30 native apple and pear trees have been planted to form a new orchard, providing vital new habitat.

Helen Bradshaw, a UK wildlife conservation expert at Chester Zoo, is leading on a scientific project to monitor and research the new

habitats as they’re being created. She said: “Our journey to transform this huge stretch of land between Chester and Ellesmere Port is well underway. What’s special about the Nature Recovery Corridor is its focus on restoring or creating a whole range of habitat types – from community greenspaces to reedbeds and grasslands, and all the areas that connect these together. The ecological crisis means many habitats are at risk, so variety and interconnectivity are key to successfully recovering declining species.

“We’ve been able to confirm that rare Nathusius’s pipistrelle bats are present in the corridor, which is incredibly exciting. For the first time, we’ve been able to manage areas of grassland that secretive harvest mice rely on, and the wetlands we’ve created have already filled with water. We’re collecting lots of data and, hopefully, in another 12 months’ time, we’ll be able to confirm lots of other exciting species living here too.”

Hannah Brooks, Chester Zoo’s community engagement manager, is overseeing the scheme. She said: “There’s never been a more pressing time for people to come together and take a stand for nature. This project is showing what a difference real collaboration between specialists, volunteers and engaged community groups can do.”

Community co-operation

“Already more than 7,000 people have joined us in getting involved,” added Hannah. “The pride that local communities are taking in the project and the greenspaces on their doorsteps is exactly what’s needed if we’re to see longlasting transformative change. With everyone invested and everyone connected to nature, we can fight back and reverse species decline.”

A 10-mile ‘nature corridor’ aiming to protect wildlife in Cheshire has seen significant progress, thanks to conservation experts from Chester Zoo, government grants – and you!

“Together we can fight back and reverse decline”

Mischievous

Tiko

Tiddles and Puddles

Sally who is seven and loves going on holiday to Cornwall

Yuna’s first trip to the beach

Lily

Magnus who enjoys hiding in the flower beds

Roxy the French bulldog

Pip enjoying her day out

Kitty who was found as a stray

Frankie chilling in the sunshine

Dexter the St Bernard and Bailey the tabby are thick as thieves!!

Cute kitten Gus

Bryn the sprocker spaniel is four. He’s very cuddly and likes to play with the cat.

Bertie the surfing poochon

Bailey

Mabli (Welsh for ‘lovable’)

Charlie looking bonny

Where

The moorlands of Rhug Estate are one of the most important areas of upland habitat in the country and a breeding ground for some of the UK’s most threatened birds. Rhug Estate, along with Rhiwlas and Llanarmon (North Wales Moorland Partnership) undertook a survey of breeding birds as part of an EU-funded sustainable management scheme to help to inform initiatives in the future.

Ornithologist Keith Offord, who has extensive experience of the Berwyn mountains over 45 years, expanded his usual surveying as part of the project, since the size of the survey area is formidable and the terrain difficult to negotiate. Strikingly, he found that compared with 45 years ago, there have been significant declines in certain species, and some are absent altogether. Those in decline include golden plover, ring ouzel, red grouse, black grouse, snipe, wheatear, dunlin, merlin and curlew.

Heart-wrenching

An obvious common factor, said Offord, is that they are specialist upland species at the southern limit of their UK range. It has long been

predicted that climate shifts will have the greatest impact on species that belong in particular climatic envelopes. Conversely, a number of species at the northern edge of their European range are spreading north.

Lord Newborough, owner of Rhug Estate, said: “We value Keith’s expertise and appreciate the extensive work he has carried out. It is heart-wrenching to learn of the species we may never see here again as a result of how the climate is changing.”

On the up

Despite declines in some species, others such as the meadow pipit are thriving. Cuckoos, which as brood parasites are dependent on species such as meadow pipit, are correspondingly healthy in number, although in steep decline across much of farmland Britain. Other species showing an increase include carrion crow, red kite, hobby, raven and whitethroat, willow warbler, blackbird and wren.

Keith Offord added: “The survey habitats demonstrate how a differing mosaic produces the greatest diversity of bird species. A mix of heather, bilberry, gorse, bracken, common sedge and a scattering of native trees, such as rowan, provide optimum conditions for diversity.”

under-25s digital newsletter content.

Since starting in September, the trainees have enthusiastically taken part in habitat management, litter picking, scything training and species surveys, including for moths and fungi. They have also attended beaver consultations, school sessions and outreach events, in addition to creating the

Trainee Joe said: “Throughout my teenage years I’ve been interested in climate change and wildlife destruction. The traineeship looked like the perfect opportunity to take that first step into combatting it.” Fellow trainee Catrin said: “Having graduated in Bioarchaeology, I am reigniting my childhood passion for wildlife.”

The programme is supported by the National Lottery Community Fund and People’s Postcode Lottery. For details, email the SNW community officer Silvia Cojocaru: silvia@rwtwales.or

Radnorshire Wildlife Trust has successfully recruited two young people for a six-month traineeship, as part of the Stand for Nature Wales project. The traineeship was set up for 18–24 year olds to work alongside the Trust’s dedicated team of staff and volunteers, gaining the vital professional skills required for that first step into the conservation sector.

…and the ouzel, snipe and wheatear? One of Wales’ most important wildlife estates has seen the decline of numerous bird species due to the changes in our climate.

A special traineeship is allowing two young people to help nature at the same time as gaining skills for the future

All images © Keith O ord

The meadow pipit

“In decline: red grouse, dunlin, merlin and curlew”

Forget watching Cash in the Attic – are you sitting on your very own gold mine? Shire talks to Dave McGray of Gold and Silver Roadshow about nding treasure at home to fund that special something or just to settle those rising bills.

Most of us idly dream of winning the pools or the lottery, but many ordinary households have forgotten valuables stored away – old gold and silver jewellery, items and collectibles that could be turned into cash.

“A lucky couple called at one of our recent roadshow events with a couple of gold chains, a silver charm bracelet and a bag of old silver coins. We paid them over £1,600 just for the coins alone,” says expert Dave McGray. “They turned out to be pre-1947 silver coins that were normal currency a few years ago and are now highly collectable.”

Perhaps you have something you’ve stashed away because it was

look at old or foreign coins, old wrist or pocket watches, chains, bracelets, rings and bangles – in any condition, broken or not,” says Dave. “If you think it is a diamond ring, bring it along and we will confirm it to be genuine. If you have an old trophy or tankard or any silver-coloured items, let us value them for you.”

Gold and Silver Roadshow is interested in all foreign and pre-1947 UK silver coins. “We pay at least 10 times face value for these,” promises Dave.

TEAPOTS AND TUNICS

Canadian Maples

As well as gold jewellery and coins such as sovereigns, Krugerrands and Maples, there are less obvious items that could be of interest, such as dental gold. Likewise Dave is interested in any silver such as trays, teapots, cigarette cases and cutlery. “I’d also offer cash for platinum and antique jewellery”

given to you by a relative or no longer fits in with your decor? “Dealers are paying big prices for old jewellery and gold and silver objects,” says Dave. “Most unusual gold and silver items are no longer fashionable, but we deal with collectors who will pay high prices for these. Wristwatches and old-fashioned pocket watches can surprise you with their value – you will be amazed by the amounts currently being offered.”

Gold and Silver Roadshow will give you a free, honest valuation, with attentive service within a few minutes and rarely any queuing. “Our expert will give you a one-on-one appraisal of the value of your treasured possessions in a private area with no one looking over your shoulder. If you like the valuation, our expert will make you an offer in cash, which you can accept or decline, at no cost to yourself.”

If you think you don’t have anything of value, think again. “We will

In addition, Gold and Silver Roadshow is on the look-out for war medals and old Masonic memorabilia and medals. “We have paid thousands of pounds for certain war medals and even the General Service Medal group is worth bringing in, especially if you have the original box and letters to accompany them.” Also of great interest are old military uniforms, tunics, hats and any Army, Navy or RAF field gear.

So why not have an early spring clean, dig out those ‘no longer treasured’ items and turn them into cash?

Gold and Silver Roadshow

A very lucky couple called at one of our recent roadshow events with a couple of old gold chains and a silver charm bracelet and a bag of old silver shilling coins. We paid them over £1600.00 just for the coins alone. They turned out to be pre-1947 silver coins that were normal currency a few years ago and are now highly collected. We asked them for their permission to pass on this story on and they were only too pleased to allow us to let everyone know that they might be sitting on a goldmine and not even know it! Like most people,

FOR 1 DAY ON SATURDAY

28th JANUARY 2023

AT THE ROYAL OAK PREMIER INN, HIGH STREET, BROMBOROUGH, WIRRAL CH62 7EZ

from 10.30 to 4.00

who can only dream of winning the pools or the lottery, a lot of normal households have a hidden treasure of old gold jewellery, silver jewellery, teapots, trophies, trays and old objects d’art.

Why not get a free valuation from our expert at our roadshow. There is no queuing and our expert will give you a one-on-one appraisal of the value of your treasured possessions in a private area. If you like the valuation our expert will make you the same offer in cash which you can accept or decline at no cost to yourself.

FOR 1 DAY ON TUESDAY

31ST JANUARY 2023

AT THE MERCURE ABBOTS WELL HOTEL, WHITCHURCH ROAD, CHRISTLETON CHESTER CH3 5QL

from 10.30am to 4.00pm

FOR 1 DAY ON MONDAY

30TH JANUARY 2023

WOODLANDS HALL HOTEL, WOODLANDS HALL CARAVAN PARK, RUTHIN LL15 2AN

Health&Beauty TIME TO PUT A PING! IN IT

January can be a challenge, perhaps never more so than this year. We’ve gone all out to make it the best Christmas ever, and now it’s back to the cold reality of rising costs and energy bills. One way to mitigate the worries of choosing between heating the house or heating the oven is to (re-)acquaint yourself with the possibilities of microwave cooking. Hear me out! Yes, you might remember that back in the 1980s when microwaves became popular, a deluge of cookery books tried to teach us how to make the most of this new and convenient appliance – only to be collecting dust on the shelf soon after. Most of us now only use one to heat up a ready meal or last night’s leftovers for lunch. But your microwave can be an invaluable ally in providing healthy, affordable meals.

Protecting nutrients

During conventional cooking the vitamin content in food can be drastically reduced due to

the amount of time it is exposed to heat. Studies have shown that Vitamin C in particular is vulnerable to high temperatures. Microwaving reduces this exposure time and therefore you are not only able to cook your veg quicker (remember to add a little water) but you are also more likely to retain valuable nutrients. This is even more the case when you steam veg in the microwave, using only the minimum water required.

For some vegetables, such as green beans, carrots, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, the antioxidant content can be retained or even increase during microwave cooking. And cooking pre-soaked cereal grains and beans in the microwave can reduce the activity of compounds such as phytates, which reduce absorption of minerals such as iron and zinc in our gut.

Sure, microwave cooking won’t brown your food – you won’t get the same roasted

flavours from meat, or lovely golden toast. However, it can be useful when negotiating your Sunday roast or finishing your cheese on toast. The trick is knowing what works best for each part of the meal on your plate.

Take a refresher course…

To get started, download the BBC’s handy guide (bbc.co.uk/food/articles/healthy_ microwave_meals) and then blow the dust off that cookery book on the top shelf!

Dr Tanja Harrison, is a registered nutritionist and Lecturer in Public Health Nutrition at the University of Chester

A fracture is less serious than a broken bone

MYTH – Many people believe this, but in reality the two are identical. Severe fractures can result in a bone breaking into two or more separate pieces. Minor fractures involve a crack in a bone that remains intact, and are sometimes called ‘hairline fractures’ – but all need proper care and medical attention to heal properly.

Babies have more bones than adults This is actually TRUE. When you’re born, you have about 300 bones. By the time you’re an adult, you’ve only got 206. The reason is that as babies grow, some of their bones fuse together. Some infant bones are made entirely of soft, flexible tissue called cartilage, which is slowly replaced by hard bone as the baby develops.

Whether you’re working your way through Christmas leftovers or cutting down on energy costs, the microwave can be a surprisingly healthy ally, says Dr Tanja Harrison

Quick, easy – and healthy too!

“Phyates can reduce absorption of iron and zinc in the gut”

2OQuestions

Sophie Hughes started her career as a size 6 teenage model. But when her nephew needed a liver transplant, Auntie Sophie put her work on hold to become a donor. Challenging times followed, but Sophie now thrives as a curve model and has settled back at home in Alderley Edge, where she is an inspiration to people of all sizes.

Full, real name Sophie Louise Hughes. 2

1

What do you do for a living? I’m a curve model and content creator. 3

Partner, parents, children, animals – who shares your life? Just me! I’m single and living on my own for the first time in my adult life and loving it. 4

What’s the highlight of the last 12 months? Landing a campaign with one of my favourite brands, Perky Pear, and seeing myself on Europe’s largest billboard.

school. I’d probably be terrible now, but I'd give it a go. 14

Your favourite drink? Water. Is that really boring? I absolutely love a nice cold water. My favourite alcoholic drink is rhubarb and ginger gin with tonic. 15

If you had to take part in a reality TV show, which would you have the best chance of winning – Strictly, Bake O or battling it out in the jungle?

5

And the worst moment? I moved back from Australia after living over there for nine years. It was tough, having to navigate so much change. The hardest part was having to rehome my kitties, it broke my heart. 6

If you could come back as any animal, what would it be? A cat, 100 percent! They are sassy, don’t take no for an answer and sleep for 20 hours a day, before demanding to be stroked and fed. Sounds a dream life! 7

Your desert island disc? Whitney Houston’s ‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody’. So many key moments in my life come to mind when I hear this song. It makes me feel motivated, inspired and happy. 8

If you could have one superpower, what would it be? Time travel. I’d love to go back and meet my ancestors. I’d also like to have one last cup of tea with my granny. And meet the future generations of my family who aren’t here yet. How cool would that be! 9

Who is your all-time hero? My sister – she’s my best friend, the greatest mum you’ll ever come across, independent, loving, loyal, and just an incredible human. No mountain is too big for her. She is always there to pick me up when times get rough. It’s been amazing moving to the UK and spending so much time together.

What is your worst fear or phobia? I’m quite claustrophobic – I hate enclosed spaces. Having an MRI scan was one of the worst experiences of my life. It’s irrational but it terrifies me. 11

What would be the first thing you’d buy if you won the lottery? A plane ticket, so I could hang out in the Maldives while I plan how to spend the rest of my life!

What would be your dream job? In another life I’d have gone into interior design. I’m really creative and find so much happiness in bringing a space to life.

If you were representing your country in the Olympics, which sport would you choose? High jump. I have long legs and was always good at it in

Tough question! Strictly, I’d be laughed off in the first episode due to my absolute lack of rhythm. I’d have to say I’m A Celeb, I would definitely say yes to that! 16

What’s your guilty pleasure? Galaxy chocolate. They didn’t sell it in Australia, so I’m making up for lost time! 17

When did you last laugh uncontrollably and why? Chatting with my cousin about her dating life, a story I absolutely cannot repeat. Let’s just say the dating apps provide no end of entertainment… 18

You’re hosting a celebrity dinner party – who’s on the guest list? Barrack and Michelle Obama, Tom Hanks and Whitney. It might prove tricky but I’m having her there. 19

Your favourite place in the world and why? Pulau Perhenthian Kecil, an island in Malaysia. I spent time there when I was backpacking. It was a little slice of heaven.

What’s your proudest achievement so far? When I was 25 I donated part of my liver to my baby nephew Oscar. I don’t think I’ll ever beat that in terms of achievements. He’s thriving now and it’s so nice to be home, spending more time with him (and beating him at Mario Kart!)

20

eddings

Tie the knot in the English countryside

Set high above Shrewsbury, with rolling views of the vineyard, hills and countryside, Hencote Vineyard & Estate is the foremost vineyard destination in England and Wales, offering picturesque vistas, a relaxed environment and sublime cuisine.

With 180-degree panoramic views, The View restaurant can seat up to 150 guests, whilst the two-tiered outside balcony is wonderful for drinks receptions and pictures. Hencote can create a range of wedding packages, from traditional celebrations to the more unique vineyard wedding, paying close attention to detail to ensure we meet your every need.

Hencote has a wealth of experience when it comes to the planning and organisation of large events and can take care of everything from the theme and layout of your wedding breakfast to the colourful floral arrangements. The dedicated and experienced kitchen brigade seeks to source the best local and national produce that pairs nicely with the homegrown estate wines. Whether you require a champagne and canapés reception or desire a more intimate wedding ceremony, Hencote can create an itinerary that meets your specific and bespoke needs.

Join Hencote on 5th February for a Wedding Open Day and discover what this leading wedding venue has to offer.

www.hencote.com

Bespoke gourmet celebration

When it comes to choosing the ultimate feast to celebrate your big day, Hughes Caterers based in Welshpool can provide services at any venue for your event, either indoors or in a marquee. They have a wealth of experience creating fabulous and delicious wedding feasts that reflect your individual style. Begin with a free consultation to discuss your ideal wedding food, followed up by some serious sampling at a tasting day. Then the team will create a bespoke menu, with your choice of food, designed around you.

Whether you are planning seated dining, a buffet or just drinks and finger food, they will work with you to plan the perfect menu and management of your event. Hughes Caterers can provide a full bar service including the application to the local council, bar furniture, draught pumps, bottles, spirits, ice, garnishes, glassware and of course the uniformed bar tenders.

As well as food and drink, they offer services such as seating plans, flower arrangements and the finest tableware and linen – in fact, everything you require to make your wedding enjoyable and memorable. The highly trained uniformed staff provide professional and attentive service to ensure the day runs exactly as you wish.

www.hughescaterers.co.uk

Shake that!

Gin Gin Geroo is a Manchester-based gin and rum bar that comes to you. Though it serves well-known gins and rums from around the world, there’s more – like its additional mini cocktail bar service called Shake That. The company will work with you to build your wedding drinks menu, including wines, spirits, ales, lagers, cider and slushies in both alcoholic and nonalcoholic form, right down to a completely alcohol-free bar.

Gin Gin Geroo’s mixologist can visit your venue to design your own cocktail and mocktail menu with all your personal favourites. You can learn how to make your own cocktail, or simply relax and enjoy while it’s served to you.

Complement your event with tipi hire, ensuring that the British weather doesn’t dampen the party atmosphere.

www.gingingeroo.co.uk

A traditional family of jewellers

Graham and Pru Peers, along with their son Nathan and daughters Katie and Natalie, dedicate their time and energy to providing a service that has become the envy of others. A well-earned reputation for quality and style ensures that the Peers family of Llandudno will always be recognised as one of North Wales’ premier jewellers. At Peers you can be sure that the creative flare of the goldsmith, the incredible gift of the gemstone cutter and the complete conviction of the final piece are nowhere better exhibited than in their treasure house of dreams come true.

They offer rings in dazzling combinations of precious stones –diamonds, emeralds, opals, pearls, rubies, sapphires and tanzanites –wrought in silver and gold.

Peers also fashion beautiful earrings and bracelets that make extra-special wedding gifts. Buy these exquisite pieces online or visit their shop in Mostyn Street, Llandudno.

DID YOU KNOW?

The juniper berry used in gin is not a berry, it’s a female seed cone

intimate to large and lavish, Chester Racecourse has something to suit everyone and offers a variety of wedding packages including champagne and canapés, buffets, sumptuous wedding breakfasts and elegant receptions to help you create your own unique day. Award-winning caterers Horseradish specialise in creative catering using the best local produce – whether you choose a classic formal wedding breakfast or a contemporary reception buffet, they’ll help you create a menu that reflects your style.

Use the team’s contacts and experience to add something special – from entertainment, wedding photography, hair, make-up and wedding cakes to evening fireworks or a dramatic arrival by hot air balloon!

www.chester-races.com

© yanaphotography.co.uk

The design of your dream

www.peersthejeweller.co.uk

Let your imagination run wild

Chester Racecourse’s historic façade is complemented by contemporary interiors and surrounded by beautifully manicured lawns and over 30 acres of breathtaking green space. In a picturesque setting flanked by the River Dee, the Racecourse provides the perfect backdrop for a truly magical day. Whether you’re looking for an intimate service or a grand celebration you can choose from a range of large and small rooms, from historic stands to contemporary character-filled suites with floor-to-ceiling views. Chester Racecourse also has its own on-site hotel and ample parking, to relieve your guests of any worry. With a choice of six licensed ceremony spaces, from

North Wales and the Border Counties

The vaulted ceilingisimp

An exclusive venue

DID YOU KNOW?

Plas

Isaf in Corwen is the perfect venue to celebrate your wedding. The superb 17th-century listed barn is ideally situated, with some of the most spectacular views of the Dee Valley. Elegant surroundings and a warm ambience set the scene for your special day.

As you walk into the barn you will be blown away by the high timber-framed ceilings, stone walls and slate floors, perfect for an intimate gathering or a big party.

The venue is adaptable, too, with the marquee sited next to the barn, and expansive outside space with outdoor seating and picturesque gardens. The barn offers a wealth of versatility, with impressive oak trusses – a blank canvas to decorate as you wish. It all overlooks the open countryside, ideal for an intimate gathering or a celebratory party from 30 to 300 guests.

Plas Isaf has been developed as part of the Jones family’s working farm, and they are on hand to help, complemented by a full team of experienced trained staff. With the dedication of this family team, every effort is made to ensure that your wedding will be the most memorable day of your life.

www.plas-isaf.co.uk

A perfect place to say “I do!”

Imagine, a quintessential classic Georgian country mansion, exclusively yours to celebrate your dream wedding. Nanteos, near Aberystwyth not only becomes your very own country estate for your special event but delivers so much more. With a dedicated team of staff and managers providing exceptional, warm, yet professional service, with fine cuisine to match, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional and memorable occasions.

Today’s weddings want to be different, they want to stand out from the crowd and most of all they want a venue that can be flexible enough to realise the couple’s dreams. Want your dog to lead you down the aisle with a ring pouch? Not a problem. Need a horse to take you to your ceremony? We have it covered. Fancy a Mad Hatter’s tea party instead of a formal meal? Consider it done. At Nanteos, weddings are never just another day at the office. We work closely with all our bridal parties to ensure that every detail is covered, ensuring that you have a splendid day and leave with enduring memories of this the most important of occasions.

www.nanteos.com

Mark the day your way!

DID YOU KNOW?

Until the ’60s a ‘hen party’ was a quiet cup of tea over cards!

‘Chau eur’ is French for ‘stoker’ from the days of steam engines

And they’re o ! A moment to catch your breath before the ceremony

Ready for the journey ahead

Awinner

in the 2022 North Wales Wedding Awards, Wrexham Chauffeurs provide luxury wedding chauffeur services all year round and ensure that you make the grandest entrance to the most memorable day of your life. They offer a sensational fleet of luxurious, air-conditioned vehicles for all your wedding needs. With their expertise in the provision of transport, and their dedication to providing an outstanding level of customer service, Wrexham Chauffeurs guarantee that your wedding car hire will be second to none. If it’s quality you’re looking for, you’ll be bowled over by their cars which combine classic elegance with modern styling and technology for an unforgettable ride. There is a choice of saloon or estate E-class cars, luxury S-class saloons, and Mercedes minibuses.

Chauffeurs are handpicked for their ability to provide a friendly, reliable, and professional service. They are attentive and polite and will ensure all of your needs are met on your special day. Wrexham Chauffeurs guarantee to transport you in style to the various locations involved in your wedding – simply provide an itinerary and leave the rest to them.

www.wrexhamchauffeurs.co.uk

Your wedding your way

The Oriel Hotel is just a short stroll from historic St Asaph, on the banks of the River Elwy in the heart of North Wales. With mature gardens surrounded by acres of beautiful countryside, the Oriel Hotel is unique and very special. Your wedding will be arranged and hosted by our experienced weddings manager Michelle, along with a professional and attentive team who will ensure that your day exceeds your expectations. We are here to assist you at every step of the way to ensure your dream wedding comes true.

Aperfect setting

The Oriel Hotel offers a variety of suites accommodating from 20 to 180 guests, including a lovely Japanese Garden venue, perfect for your summer wedding ceremony. With our reputation for impeccable service and fine foods we guarantee we have everything to make your day truly memorable.

Why not come to our Wedding Open Day on 22nd January from 11am to 3pm and see for yourself? www.orielhotel.co.uk

for you

eremony

hilst we may be a luxury country house, we are certainly not ‘stuffy’ and are well versed in the need for the modern bride to have the day of her dreams and not our dream of her day.

Today’s weddings need to be different, they need to stand out from the crowd and most of all deserve the venue that is flexible enough to realise their dreams. All Nanteos weddings are booked on an exclusive use basis. To enable you to easily gauge the cost of your special day we have three all-inclusive packages. The Nightingale is over two days , the Powell is for one day and finally we have an extra special package for just 30 guests, an Exclusively Intimate Wedding, for those looking for a smaller party.

“Funny and sincere. Captured my mum perfectly.” Claire’s mum, Jacqui

“Absolutely fantastic. The way all the facts were woven into the fabric of the poem was really good.”

Susan, 40th anniversary

“The poem was absolutely beautiful.” Natasha, 40th birthday

My poem will weave the name of your loved one and their personal attributes in a tender loving way. This may be for birthday, Christmas, Valentines day, Anniversary, Wedding, funeral or any other occasion. I also write speeches.

“A beautiful and tender tribute to our years of happiness, love, and devotion. Most moving. We cried. We had it framed and it has pride of place on our lounge wall.” Joyce & Albert, 70th wedding anniversary

This region features some of the most stunning locations in the UK to hold a wedding celebration. Our readers will look first to the businesses or venues featured in the Shire Weddings Specials. We feature venues, hotels, wedding dresses, mother of the bride wear, chauffeur services, cake services, catering, photography, entertainment and more...

Email Brian Stone at brianstone212@btinternet.com

Plas Isaf

Country Barn & Wedding Venue

Our authentic, grade ll listed, 17th Century, historical welsh barn... nestled in the heart of the picturesque North Wales countryside is the perfect venue for your special day...

We'd love to show you around, contact us to arrange a private viewing, or please do join us for one of our open days.

We're so looking forward to meeting you!

"Every once in a while, right in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale"

Are you dreaming of a barn wedding?

eddings Directory

From bridalwear to barbecues, cupcakes to river cruises, waistcoats to racegrounds, we’ve got it covered. We’ve even found a moat and ivy-clad ruins for the die-hard romantics among you. So grab your prince (or princess) and get planning!

Arley Hall, Cheshire

Arley Hall is a romantic venue for grand weddings, civil weddings and small intimate celebrations. Set in breathtaking surroundings this impressive Victorian country house built in the Elizabethan style is one of the most attractive stately homes in the country. The lavish ceilings, elaborate carvings, plasterwork and stained-glass windows create a wonderful feeling of grandeur and add to this perfect setting for any wedding celebration. With friendly, professional and relaxed staff your day will go smoothly: it can be intimate and peaceful or full of grandeur and vitality, it’s your choice.

www.arleyhallandgardens.com

Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse

Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse lies in beautiful rolling countryside alongside the River Dee, surrounded by the idyllic Welsh hills. It is a popular choice for weddings as it is set in 150 acres of green space, the perfect backdrop and venue to host your special day. The Racecourse events team can provide the perfect site for small and large weddings alike, as well as access to experienced event planners and managers, in-house catering solutions and a range of entertainment offerings. A dedicated team will work with you from concept stage to the delivery of delicious menus tailored to fit your vision.

www.bangorondeeraces.co.uk

Castle Brides, Montgomery

What a crazy two years in the bridal industry! At Castle Brides we go above and beyond for our brides to make sure their special day goes to plan. In the pandemic we shut for eight months –there was mountains of work to catch up on. As a team we got though it! We are a close-knit bunch and have a passion for our business and our brides. After all that hard work, we went to the Welsh National Wedding Awards and won Best Bridal Retailer and Best Menswear in our region! We are so thankful for all of the support over the last year. So thank you from our little team. Call 01588 638 332.

www.castlebrides.co.uk

ChesterBoat

A river cruise with ChesterBoat is a unique venue for your Chester wedding reception, or a stylish way to arrive at your riverside venue. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away on board, have a sit-down meal or just treat your guests to a cruise before dining, we’ll help plan a bespoke voyage for your big day. Choose your boat from our fleet, suitable for six to 100 guests, and take a look at our delicious catering options. We’ll dress the boat in ‘Just Married’ life-rings and a wedding ribbon, but you might also like bunting, flowers and balloons.

www.chesterboat.co.uk

Grosvenor Pulford Hotel and Spa, Chester

Grosvenor Pulford Hotel and Spa is an elegant, award-winning venue near Chester, boasting first-class facilities and picturesque grounds. Celebrate your love in the flagship Grosvenor Suite, the recent recipient of an opulent refurbishment, or choose one of the more intimate celebration spaces. Allow your memories of a lifetime to last even longer at this premier venue, which offers 75 bedrooms, a luxury spa, an AA Rosette-awarded restaurant and welcoming gastropub. Call 01244 572106 for details.

www.grosvenorpulfordhotel.co.uk

Image by Nick, Denbigh

Denbigh-based Nick Bradley studied Photography & Digital Design at Blackpool & Fylde University and has over 15 years’ experience working with all types of camera equipment. He now offers bespoke wedding photography and loves to see people happy when they receive a beautiful print of themselves. He tries to ensure that every image a client receives is as natural and flattering as possible – he believes that this is where the real skill of people photography comes in. Why not take a look at his impressive portfolio?

www.imagebynick.com

Weddings Directory

Poulton Hall, Wirral

Poulton Hall on the Wirral offers a stunning backdrop for your special day.

The fairy-tale gardens provide a beautiful and picture-perfect setting for your wedding. Whether you want an intimate afternoon tea, a larger BBQ celebration, or something in between, the team can work with you to create your dream day. The dedicated event organisers Rainbow Grey Events would love to work with you every step of the way, making sure your day is complete in every way. For bespoke packages and full support from start to end of your planning please do get in touch.

www.poultonhall.co.uk

Royle Bakes, Denbighshire

Debbie runs Royle Bakes, a small, home-based cake creations business in Denbighshire, and her cakes are delivered all over North Wales and the North West. Her baking prowess has led to her being named North Wales Weddings Supplier of the Year 2022. Specialising in butter cream and ganache wedding cakes, Royle Bakes would love to design and create a centrepiece to fit perfectly with the theme of your big day. Debbie also offers brownies, cookies, cupcakes or dessert tables for your bespoke celebration.

Instagram: @roylebakes Facebook: roylebakes

Spinning Your Dreams Wedding Photography

Wedding planning is exciting – and also a bit daunting. Julia and Martin Webb always get to know the plans and dreams of their couples at an in-depth briefing. Google Reviews highlight that they are much more than full-time professional photographers, and with nearly 20 years’ experience they can make those dreams come true. Martin can be your ‘toastmaster’ if it helps – he often does this at private reception venues. Julia loves her time with the bride and the bridesmaids for preparation photos. Martin is always with the groom and his groomsmen preceremony. Two caring people, dedicated to creating perfect memories and timeless photographs. Call 01938 570069. www.spinningyourdreams.co.uk

The Hand Hotel, Chirk

The Hand Hotel in Chirk, on the edge of the picturesque Ceiriog Valley, is one of the oldest hotels in the North East of Wales, and makes the perfect choice for your very special day. From the initial planning right through to the day itself, the team pride themselves on personal attention to detail, thus ensuring the most memorable occasion possible for your wedding. The team has extensive experience of delivering different styles and sizes of wedding functions, and catering for a variety of needs.

www.thehandhotelchirk.co.uk

Trefor Jones, Ruthin

Wedding tradition at its very best. Morning tails create a sense of refined style that is quintessentially British. Trefor Jones has one of the largest selections of wedding hire wear in North Wales, with stores in Ruthin and Caernarfon. It stocks a wide range of beautifully cut morning wear in a wide variety of sizes, so you can be certain of the perfect fit. Give this traditional look a personal twist with a colourful waistcoat, or select a coordinating one to present timeless elegance at its very best.

www.treforjones.co.uk

Whittington Castle

Whittington Castle is a fairy-tale setting. The ivy-clad, moated castle near Oswestry has always specialised in intimate ceremonies and now the team are delighted to also be opening up the grounds for outdoor and marquee celebrations. Each ceremony is tailored by the friendly and experienced team, whether you see your special day as small and intimate under the vaulted ceiling of the gatehouse tower; a dramatic contrast of old and new in a modern stretch tipi; or at one with nature in the grounds – it’s your day, your way.

www.whittingtoncastle.co.uk

Schools

Congratulations to sixth-form Economics students at Wolverhampton Grammar School for their robust performance at the UK Intermediate World Economics Cup. The team finished a respectable 24th, competing against some of the most selective schools in the country. They made it to the tiebreak round, where they were confronted with 100 multiplechoice questions, ranging from simple supply and demand equilibriums to more challenging conundrums such as why MR=0.

THE BEST OF BOOKS

COLLEGE RECEIVES GLOBAL ACCOLADE

Derwen is “exceptional” at promoting opportunity for students

Students and staff are celebrating after Derwen College won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Promoting Opportunity 2022.

To mark the achievement, the college held a celebration event, where it was presented with a trophy and official scroll by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Shropshire, Anna Turner, who also delivered a personal letter of congratulations from Derwen College patron, Her Royal

HOT SHOTS HIT COMMONWEALTH TEAM TARGET

Highness, the Duchess of Kent. The Queen’s Award for Enterprise is a globally recognised business excellence award, and the college is one of only a very small number of organisations recognised in this category nationally.

The king’s representative Anna Turner said: “This is a much sought-after award for high achievers. Derwen has been recognised for being exceptional at promoting opportunity.”

shortlisted

The award is a great opportunity for schools to receive six brilliant titles aimed at enthusing and exciting children about science, along with supporting the writing of STEM books for under-14 year olds. Every week a small number of science students came together in the library to choose their preferred book. The national result is being announced this month.

DESTINATION MEDICINE

Students

from Ellesmere College have shot to stardom with impressive shooting performances at national and international level, supported and inspired by the college’s Shooting Academy coaches Tom Rylands and Mark Parry. The coaches have also been successful representing GB and Wales, winning several medals.

Students Francine Gilmore and Anna Maughan have been selected to represent

England at the Commonwealth Shooting Federation championships, normally a precursor to the Commonwealth Games.

Mr Rylands said: “We are incredibly proud of them all and excited to see their development in the coming years.”

Aspiring medical students from Moreton Hall joined together with students from local schools to hear from a range of medical experts about future career opportunities. The conference was full of useful information and advice, beginning with Professor Terry Wardle, Dean of Clinical Medicine at Chester Medical School asking, “Why do you really want to be a doctor?” Further specialist guidance was provided by staff from Keele Medical School and RJAH Hospital, with Old Moretonian Molly Creaser-Ogden offering insight into life as a medical student.

Thomas Adams School is one of 450 judging panels across the UK to receive a set of books

for the Young People’s Book Prize.

“This is a much sought-after award for high achievers”

An inspiring session at Moreton Hall

Lord-Lieutenant Anna Turner presented the scroll

Anna Maughan takes aim

The panel faced some tough decisions

“We are incredibly proud of them all”

Taking on the world: WGS economists

A BITE OF THE BIG APPLE

Sixth-form students from The Queen’s School, Chester enjoyed a cultural break in New York, soaking up the sights, sounds and excitement of the iconic city. They made the most of their three-day trip – the packed itinerary included the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge, the 9/11 Memorial, the Empire

Engineering scholarship success

Abbey Gate College lower sixth student Tom Corrie has been named an Arkwright Engineering Scholar. Entrants for this prestigious award are required to show engineering achievement both in and out of school, and must pass a rigorous aptitude assessment and interview. Each scholar is sponsored by a company or the armed forces, who provide further learning and hands-on experiences. Tom’s

sponsorship is provided by his first choice, the Royal Air Force.

PUP POPS IN

Students at Concord College received a special visitor when their sponsored guide dog puppy Harmony dropped by. Harmony is being raised by a specialist handler, who was happy to announce that Harmony was one of the best pups he’s ever raised.

During the visit, students had the chance to find out about the life of a guide dog trainer, as well as the next steps in Harmony’s journey to formal guide dog training.

CLEAR WINNERS

School celebrates achievements as part of its CLEAR learning programme. The mnemonic stands for Confidence, Leadership, Engagement, Achievement and Resilience. Everything the school does builds those traits in the girls. The fact that exam results have soared and students are winning more and more competitions would seem to indicate that the programme is successful. With an already enviable reputation for excellence in gymnastics, the school swept the board at the ISA Midlands Gym competition at the end of last term, with teams placed first in all entered categories.

State Building, Central Park, the Rockefeller Centre, shopping at Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s, and even a show on Broadway.

Harmony is a grade A student!

Stopping for a breather at Brooklyn Bridge

Tom with Arkwright’s regional o cer Graham Collins

Adcote

Aximaiorro ist ommolut

“A cultural break, soaking up the sights of the iconic city”

“Adcote School teams were placed first in all entered categories”

“His fi rst choice, the RAF”

Making a difference

Community-minded students from St David’s College took the initiative to spread a little Christmas cheer to those in need at the end of last year, by launching an advent calendar appeal within the college and their local community.

BRINGING POETRY TO LIFE

Sailing is a unique programme that’s been at the heart of Rydal Penrhos for more than 60 years, producing a number of nationally recognised sailors annually. Now, following an agreement with Conwy County Council, it has a new home within the impressive Porth Eirias facility in Colwyn Bay. Petrina Blomeley, sailing

A symbol of hope

The Year 10 students managed to secure an amazing 155 chocolate advent calendars along with selection boxes to donate to Hope Restored food bank in Llandudno. The pupils were welcomed at the food bank by Reverend Mark Young, who told them: “What makes a difference is that the children are not just getting the basics, they’re getting the pleasure of having an advent calendar at Christmas like any other child.” Hope Restored food bank is entirely dependent on donations – there are donation points at Asda Llandudno, TK Maxx Llandudno and the Co-op in Craig Y Don.

RYDAL PENRHOS SETS COURSE FOR PORTH EIRIAS

principal at Rydal Penrhos said: “In moving our sailing hub to Porth Eirias, we acquire an excellent base to enable us to further develop our centre for sailing, windsurfing and paddle sports. We have the opportunity to strengthen our community links and RYA involvement to create an exciting hub for bringing the sailing fraternity together.”

Abi-Lou helps out

Ellesmere College has unveiled the latest recipient of a scholarship to honour the locally born founder of the Save the Children charity, Eglantyne Jebb.

Abi-Lou Foster, from Market Drayton, won the Jebb Scholarship after demonstrating “selfless support” to her community through volunteering and fundraising. As well as helping at a farm that supports young adults with learning disabilities, Abi-Lou has also volunteered at a project for patients with dementia and their carers, and assisted at a Dogs Trust centre.

Eglantyne Jebb launched Save the Children with her sister, Dorothy Buxton, at the end of World War I, and the charity now supports children in more than 100 countries. The scholarship will support Abi-Lou through her two years of A levels in the sixth form at Ellesmere College.

Shrewsbury School welcomed a visit from Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, who read from his work and gave students an insight into the life of a writer in the public eye. Simon was appointed by the late Queen as a figurehead for poetry in this country, and one of his collections, Book of Matches, is part of the A-level syllabus at the school, so students eagerly noted his personal reflections on his work. The former probation o cer then answered questions from the students in his self-deprecating, deadpan style.

TALES OF A TRIATHLETE

GYMNASTIC

Year 5 and 6 pupils from The Firs School, Chester enjoyed a half term of expert tuition from Beth Tweddle Gymstars. They practised a range of core gymnastic skills including rolls, balances and sequences, before moving on to some advanced skills such as balancing on an elevated platform and landing a straddle jump. In the final session, the children worked together to create a ‘human pyramid’, using team work to achieve their goal.

Oswestry School’s Momentum Hall was packed when 450 guests attended an evening with Alistair Brownlee MBE. It was a rare opportunity to hear about the highs and lows of his triathlon life to date, including the rivalry with brother Jonny and winning the World Championships and Olympic gold. The evening ended with an audience Q&A.

A-level students with Simon Armitage

A chance to quiz a sporting hero

“pleasure like any other child”

Sailing is included in the school’s curriculum

Jebb was born in Market Drayton

Abi-Lou Foster with Richard Jebb, Eglantyne’s great-great-nephew

Universities & Colleges

CENTENARY YEAR CONCLUDES

Reaseheath College celebrated 100 years in 2022, and centenary celebrations ended with a visit from His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester, cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth, who officially opened two new sustainability projects: a Heritage Trail with Centenary Bridge and a state-of-the-art Vertical Farm.

The Vertical Farm has been built to showcase technical innovation within this specialised sector and is part of the Institute of Sustainability and Food Innovation, a joint venture between Reaseheath and its academic partner, the University of Chester.

The duke, who has a keen interest in

conservation and education, concluded his visit by planting a tree as a lasting reminder of the occasion.

STUDENTS HIT THE HIGH NOTES

From Telford College to the World Cup studio

Former Telford College student Saqib Uddin landed his dream role working on the FIFA World Cup in Qatar for a major sports broadcaster.

Saqib completed a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Media at Telford College, before graduating with a degree in Sports Journalism from Staffordshire University in 2019. After starting out at the world’s biggest YouTube boxing channel, he secured the role of junior

assistant producer for BT Sport, before progressing to assistant producer for Qatarbased beIN Sports, the World Cup host broadcaster.

Saqib commented: “I am truly humbled –words cannot describe the excitement of having the opportunity to work on the World Cup.

“If someone had told me I would have experienced this much at this stage of my career, I would not have believed them.”

Talented

students from Neath College’s Music Academy achieved Grade 8 Musical Theatre with either Distinction or Merit following auditions with the British Youth Music Theatre.

As well as practice and classwork, the students have been busy attending events at other colleges and festivals, including a prestigious performance at the Royal Albert Hall as part of the Music for Youth Proms.

“I am humbled – words cannot describe the excitement of having this opportunity”

The Duke opens the trail

Dr Peter Gould shows the royal visitor around the Vertical Farm

“They achieved Grade 8 with Distinction or Merit”

Saqib in the beIN studio in Doha, Qatar

The sax group having a blast

“The Vertical Farm has been built to showcase technical innovation”

Countryfile Young Countryside Champion of the Year

Acommitmentto British agriculture saw Harper Adams student Eleanor Gilbert named Countryfile Young Countryside Champion 2022 at the BBC Food and Farming Awards. Eleanor is studying for a BSc (Hons) in Agriculture with Crop Management. She shares regular updates about her family farm, her work placement and all things agricultural with thousands of social media followers, as well as making school visits and radio and TV appearances.

Her commitment to raising the profile of farming led to her nomination for the Young Countryside Champion award, which aims to celebrate young people aged 16-24 who are making a difference to food and farming.

Study locally, care globally

Glynllifon Coleg student Osian Hughes, who is studying Level 3 Animal Care, took the opportunity to put his skills and knowledge into practice by volunteering on an elephant conservation project in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Osian assisted with recording the behaviour of elephants in their natural habitat as well as learning first hand about conservation efforts aimed at promoting ethical elephant tourism. He said: “As a young lad coming to college for the first time, I never imagined I would get the chance to go on my own to the other side of the world to work with elephants. The whole experience has given me so much more confidence.”

Outstanding success for Social Work department

The University of Chester’s Social Work programmes have won University of the Year in the annual Social Worker of the Year Awards, receiving praise for commitment to the local community, dedication to diversity, and the expertise and support of the lecturers.

The University’s Social Work department was praised by the judges for embedding itself in the local community and ensuring those around it directly benefit from social work, citing specifically a homeless support project implemented during the pandemic.

A number of students have had their research published in peer-reviewed journals, and many choose to remain in the area to work following graduation.

WELLBEING TREATS FOR NHS STAFF

Students from the Hair and Beauty department at Coleg Cambria dropped in to the Medical and Dental Education department at Wrexham Maelor Hospital to o er complimentary wellbeing treatments to sta . As well as giving the hard-working sta a well-deserved treat, students got chance to use their new skills in a real-life setting. Following the great success of the day, both the college and hospital hope to be able to repeat it again regularly.

TOP SUPPORT FOR TRAINEE TEACHERS

Ysgol Eirias, Colwyn Bay, named among the Sunday Times’ Top 10 ‘Parent Power’ high-performing schools in Wales, is one of a select group working with the School of Educational Sciences at Bangor University as part of its innovative CaBan Teacher Education programme. The scheme aims to encourage more young people into teaching, including bilingual candidates.

MENTORING FROM A MASTERCHEF

Hospitality and Catering students at Cheshire College South & West got some top tips from chef Exose Grant, finalist on Masterchef: The Professionals 2019. Assisted by students, Exose prepared a five-course meal for a gourmet evening at the Ellesmere Port Academy West restaurant. Both campuses boast award-winning restaurants, and are open to the public for à la carte, gin-tasting and gourmet evenings.

Dr Thomas Alcott, who lectures in Film Theory & Practice at Aberystwyth University, is contributing towards a ‘code of better practice’ for British wrestling. He said: “For over a century, wrestling has been a popular form of culture and entertainment. But a lack of clarity on whether it sits within the sector of sport or theatre has led to complexities about how the industry is governed and regulated.”

Eleanor receives her award from Countryfile’s Adam Henson

Osian and fellow volunteers: a fabulous opportunity

Everyone benefitted from the day

Lecturers Vic Arnold, Victoria Shore and Dr Gill Buck

Exose Grant at Academy West

Teachers are in high demand

BEWARE IF YOU:



Receive an offer to help you access your pension savings before age 55, for example through “pension loans” and “free pension reviews”. It is only possible to access your pension before 55 in rare situations.

 Are warned that the deal is limited, you must act now. This is a pressure tactic; financial decisions should not be made under pressure.  Are discouraged from seeking professional financial advice.  Are contacted by somebody who is not on the Financial Conduct Authority Register. This is a public record of all the regulated firms and individuals in the financial services industry: register.fca.org.uk

STAY AWARE:

 HM Revenue & Customs will never contact you by email, phone or text regarding a tax refund. Simply delete or ignore any contact made this way – HMRC will only contact you via post.

 Sign up for Action Fraud Alert, a free service provided by the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau, at: actionfraud.police.uk/ signup-for-action-fraud-alert

 Exercise caution around any recommendation to take a large amount of money, or your whole pension pot, in a lump sum and invest it elsewhere, for example in overseas property, forestry, car parking or storage units. Be very wary of unsolicited offers of “amazing investment returns”.

 Seek advice from your professional financial adviser who will be able to explain the rules and tax implications of different options and help you make the best choices for your personal circumstances.

 There can be significant tax implications if you choose to cash in your pension in one go. Check the tax position before you make any decisions.

 Check fca.org.uk/scamsmart for known scams and use the tools to help identify a potential scam.

Information provided by Hartey Wealth Management Ltd. Registered office: Hilliards Court, Chester Business Park, Chester CH4 9QP. Tel: 0808 168 5866. harteywm.co.uk Hartey Wealth Management Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

In the wake of the controversial mini Budget in September, you’d be excused for missing the finer points of the Autumn Statement.

Shire’s financial expert recaps on the changes effective from April

Income Tax additional rate threshold will be reduced from £150,000 to £125,140 with effect from 6 April 2023. This move will see an estimated 250,000 further taxpayers pay the 45% rate.

The

The Chancellor confirmed there will be no increase in the Income Tax Personal Allowance (£12,570) and higher rate threshold (£37,700) for a further two years until April 2028.

Regional variations to rates may apply in Wales and Scotland.

Income Tax and dividend income

The current £2,000 dividend tax-free allowance is to be reduced to £1,000 from 6 April, and to £500 from April 2024. The rates that will apply in all regions of the UK are as follows: Basic rate band 8.75%; Higher rate band 33.75%; Additional rate band 39.35%.

Capital Gains Tax

There is a significant reduction in the annual exempt amount applicable. This had previously been fixed at £12,300 from April 2021 to April 2026 for individuals, personal representatives and some types of trusts for disabled people. It will now be reduced to £6,000 from April 2023, before being further reduced to £3,000 from April 2024.

Corporation Tax

From 1 April 2023, there will be two rates of CT:

• Taxable profits up £50,000 will continue to be taxed at 19%.

• Taxable profits over £250,000 will be taxed at the main rate of 25%.

• Profits of £50,000-£250,000 will be subject to a tapering relief.

Wage increases

The National Living Wage will increase from £9.50 to £10.42 per hour from 1 April 2023.

The full changes to the National Minimum Wage rates from 1 April are as follows:

• 21-22 year-olds –£10.18 per hour

• 18-20 year-olds –£7.49 per hour

• 16-17 year-olds – £5.28 per hour

• Apprentice rate – £5.28 per hour

Aaron Powis BSc, BFP, FCA, CTA is a partner at DRE & Co chartered accountants in Oswestry. For more information see dre.co.uk or call 01691 654353, or visit the blog page on the news section on the website.

Books&Poetry

SUFFERING FOR YOUR ART

How far would you go for a sneak preview of your favourite author’s new book? Devotees of James Patterson’s bestselling Alex Cross series were ready to spend a night behind bars!

to celebrate the King of Crime’s latest work than by inviting thrillerthirsty bookworms to a unique theatrical experience in a Victorian gaol? Triple Cross, the 30th book in James Patterson’s hugely popular Alex Cross series, was launched at Shrewsbury Prison with a gripping overnight stay. Those brave enough to attend ‘met’ characters from the book including Alex and Thomas Thull, and experienced a multitude of strange goings-on. They also received an exclusive early copy of the book, and heard the first chapter read by Patterson himself.

The real deal

In an e ort to make the experience as authentic as possible, invitees donned orange jumpsuits and stayed in real cells. They were escorted by acting prison o cers and treated like prisoners for the duration. Throughout the night, scenes from the book

were re-enacted, with the option of ghost-hunting in the early hours. At breakfast everyone had their mugshots taken and the opportunity for a picture with Special Agent Cross.

Patterson said: “It was a terrific event. One fan said it was a ‘once-in-a-lifetime experience’, which is just what we wanted to create. It was exciting to see the world of Alex Cross come to life.”

Serial killer

Triple Cross follows Cross as he hunts a killer labelled ‘The Family Man’, targeting families in and around Washington, DC. Patterson is one of the biggest-selling writers of all time – his books have sold in excess of 400 million copies and he has been the most borrowed author in UK libraries for the past 13 years in a row.

The author is passionate about encouraging children to read. Inspired by his son, who was a reluctant reader, he also writes for young readers including the Middle School, Dog Diaries, Treasure Hunters and Max Einstein series.

Island to Island by Sally Mills

Sticky To ee Poetry by Jane Bell

Jane lives near Chester, and on her frequent travels around the region and in North Wales, she is often inspired to put pen to paper. Her latest collection aims to encourage children to try writing poetry.

She says: “Writing poetry is good for the soul. However, children are seldom encouraged to write poems outside of their classroom environment. This leads them to believe that poems are stu y and ‘boring’, and switches them o from this form of creative writing.

“I began writing to rectify this situation and to encourage children to have a go at writing poems just for the sheer enjoyment and sense of achievement it can bring.”

Jane collected poetry submissions from adults and children alike for the book, which is available on Amazon, with proceeds going to the MS Society.

Sally was a reserve warden for the RSPB in Somerset. After 13 years in post, she and her partner Melvyn, also an experienced conservationist, hankered for a change and answered an ad for wardens on Aride, a tiny island in the Seychelles. This book traces their adventures on the granite rock in the middle of the Indian Ocean.

Just 1.6 by 0.6 square kilometres –about the size of Skokholm – Aride is home to more than a million birds, some found nowhere else in the world other than the Seychelles archipelago. Sally’s record of their 20-month stay is gripping in its immediacy and honesty.

All profits from the book will go to St Kentigern’s Hospice in North Wales, where Sally’s father was cared for.

An Eye for Birds by Bruce Kendrick

This is a rite-of-passage story, reflecting on a time when birdwatching sat easily

in the author’s life alongside football, girls and rock music, while he and his friends explored wildlife locations around the Wirral.

As a 10-year-old, Bruce contracted tuberculosis and was sent to an isolated sanatorium in the Cheshire countryside. There he was bedridden for six months. On fine days, nurses would push the young patients, in their beds, out to a large veranda, and it was there that his love of birdwatching developed.

Complemented with some stunning photography, this is a reflective look back by the author, revisiting his teenage wildlife haunts as an adult.

Calling local authors…

If you’re living in the Shire area or have written about a local person or place, we’d love to feature you on these pages. Email editorial@ shiremagazine.co.uk

How better

Patterson ‘doing time’ with his fans

“They experienced a multitide of strange goings-on”

REVIEWS

When I was Ten by Fiona Cummins

Twenty-one years ago, Dr Richard Carter and his wife Pamela were killed in what has become the most infamous double murder of the modern age. Their 10-year-old daughter, nicknamed the Angel of Death, spent eight years in a children’s secure unit and is living quietly under an assumed name with a family of her own. Now, on the anniversary of the trial, a documentary team has tracked down her older sister, compelling her to break her silence.

The explosive interview sparks national headlines, and journalist Brinley Booth, a childhood friend of the Carter sisters, is tasked with covering the story. For the first time, the three women are forced to confront what really happened that night, with devastating consequences for them all.

Saving Missy by Beth Morrey

Seventy-nine is too late for a second chance – isn’t it? Missy Carmichael is prickly, stubborn and terribly lonely. Until a chance encounter in the park with two very different women opens the door to something new.

Something wonderful.

Missy was used to her small, solitary existence, listening to her footsteps echoing around the empty house, the tick-tick-tick of the watching clock. After all, she had made her life her way. Now another life is beckoning. But is she brave enough?

This could be recommended to any age group and is a perfect book club choice. The story proves that new friendships can be ignited under any circumstances, and that it’s never too late – even for a seemingly prickly widow like Missy.

Apple Poem by Anne Douglas

Little ones and big ones, Nice ones and crabby ones, Red ones and green ones, Apples, The James Grieve, The Brae burn, The Gala, And the Bramley, Our feathered friends, Swooping, landing, Windfalls, Little ones and big ones, Nice ones and crabby ones.

Stan by Jo Young

The man walked down the street

He appeared to be upbeat But as he waited to cross the road It was clear to see he wasn’t that bold. Cars, taxis and bicycles zoomed past His stay on the pavement seemed set to last Resigned, he glanced at the pedestrian crossing – seemingly so far away Should he use it, or should he try his luck and still stay?

With a deep sigh, he started shu ing towards the crossing Children heading to school were busy passing

Eventually he made it and pressed The crossing button, to stop the tra c and continue to test

His stamina and make it to the other side. Gratefully, once safely across, he sank to the low wall

And for 10 minutes, he allowed his body to stall Undaunted, however, he got back on his feet

And now on the other side he walked back along the street Finally he made it to the store To be greeted by a stare from the owner who looked bored However, his eyes lit up when he saw the man

“Thank Goodness” he cried. “You made it, Stan!”

Beware by Norman Marshall

There will always be those who live in folly,

Devising various devious wars: Like clear-felling all the palms and holly For whatever superficial, vacuous cause. They might be enslaved by market forces, Employ nationality, language and religion, Pervert numerous governments and causes

For their own personal derision. They might defy the common logic of their time,

Bastardise one’s tongue now and then, All acceptable to disguise their crime And appear the most reasonable of men. Now, dear reader, do be wise; Beware of him or her with a dream, Beware that they will not despise Your somewhat sensible but banal scheme!

Wales by Judith Dickinson

Her hair cascades, glistening, like the tumbling spring melts of Snowdonia.

Her eyes, grey, mystical, as the pools left stranded by the ebbing tide.

Her skin as soft as the dew-blushed petals of a newly blooming da odil.

Her hands, strong, long-fingered, fine and delicate as the strings of any harp.

Her breath is like the gentle breeze beneath the gossamer wings of a butterfly.

She is as tall as the ancient oak that stands guard over wizard Merlin’s grave.

Her grace and beauty hide a heart as fierce as any dragon, Waiting to be roused from sleep to once more fight the foe.

She looks, and is, our hope, our pride, our passion.

F��� G��� O��� T��

The inner workings of the internal combustion engine are a mystery to me.

The finer points of a limited slip differential (whatever that is) I am quite happy to leave to that Clarkson chap. Being trapped in a lift with a petrolhead is my idea of hell. But I don’t rail against all things mechanical.

As a countryman, I love our wonderful old water mills. No rev counters going off the scale, no deafening decibels and no silly gizmos for the hard of thinking. Just the mesmerising fascination of running water at work, the pleasing slap of broad belts and the confident clunk of large gearing. What may elude the casual observer is how the water is actually managed. Water-powered mills were, self-evidently, sited near streams or rivers, but rarely did the mill wheel take its power directly from the river itself. Far more efficient to power it from above. This required a controllable, constant supply of water and, of course, rivers are subject to summer droughts and winter floods. So was born the mill race, the canal that carries the water to the top of the mill wheel. Should the mill be located just below a natural fall in the river, the race was relatively short, and in some cases nothing more than a long wooden trough. However,

where the water source was a meandering stream or on the flat, it could be a mile or more in length. Hence the preponderance of windmills rather than water mills in areas such as the Fens. The race usually exited the river on a bend where the current was concentrated, and within 20 yards or so there was an overflow that returned surplus water to the river, so only the precise amount needed was extracted. Had I paid more attention at school, I may have been able to explain why so little water is needed to turn a wheel over 15 feet in diameter. Suffice to say, you don’t need torrents of the stuff. Although this method attained more power from less water, the race system did create two problems. After the water had emptied from the wheel on the ‘upstroke’ as it were, it had to be got away quickly or it would act as a brake. But often the ‘exhaust’ water had dropped 20 feet or more and could now be a couple of feet below the level of the ‘mother’ stream, so a return race was constructed parallel to the stream. Secondly, busy mill operators soon discovered that still water becomes choked with weed and silt, so races were preferably kept running, or if not, left empty.

Our countryside is littered with derelict mills and neglected mill races. Ironic, then, that water is now seen as the saviour in the panic to replace fossil fuels. Harnessing the tides may be a far stretch from diverting gurgling streams, but the principle is the same. The phrase ‘renewable energy’ could have been coined for water power. It’s free, plentiful and can be used over and over again.

Why not restore some of our countryside mills to working order, replacing the mill stones with turbines to produce local electricity? I know one thing for sure. Water is a sight more reliable than wind.

Eryl Jones was brought up on a small Welsh farm and studied agriculture in Aberystwyth. He became farm manager on a large estate and later farmed on his own account.

Eryl does voluntary environmental work with Denbighshire Council and has a passion for the rural way of life.

Renewable energy? Eryl suggests taking a lesson from our rural past…

“Just the pleasing slap of broad belts and the confident clunk of large gearing”

DID YOU KNOW? Other names for a mill race are lyche, layd and leet

Could the solution lie here?

You can still spot the old mill races

Retirement Living

launched

Aspecialist dementia nursing and memory assessment support service has launched in Chester and the surrounding rural areas, with almost 50 families living with dementia receiving vital support. The Admiral Nurse service, which also aims to improve diagnosis rates, is being provided by the Dementia Resource Community in partnership with Dementia UK, the specialist dementia nurse charity. Dementia is a huge and growing health crisis in the UK, with 944,000 people living with the condition, set to increase to 1.1 million by 2030. There is no cure – but there is care. Admiral Nurses work in hospitals, GP practices and local community services to provide clinical, emotional and practical support that enables people to live more positively with dementia. The service follows a successful pilot in Ellesmere Port and Neston which helped more than 700 families. The additional new service has been commissioned by Cheshire

and Wirral Partnership NHS Trust and supports their community mental health teams.

Rewarding role

Admiral Nurse Kim Griffiths will be leading the Chester service, which covers the city as well as towns and villages on the outskirts, including Farndon, Frodsham, Handbridge and Tattenhall. Kim said: “Being an Admiral Nurse is a very emotionally rewarding job and I feel privileged to be able to help families affected by dementia across Chester. Many families are very tired and find it hard to take a break, and they are so glad to get the support and advice we offer.”

Clinical lead and Admiral Nurse Cathrina Moore said: “There is a real need for this service, particularly because there is often a lot of misunderstanding in relation to the symptoms of neurological disease, and challenges in diagnosis caused by the pandemic. To find out more about the new service, families need to see their GP and ask for a referral via the local community mental health team in their area.”

Shaw Healthcare is the largest employee-owned healthcare company in the UK and delivers a wide spectrum of care, from elderly residential and dementia to complex specialities such as mental health, acquired brain injuries and learning disabilities. The business designs, builds and operates care services for the councils it partners with to meet their bespoke care requirements.

The team at Shaw could not deliver the quality of care they do without dedicated, passionate people. The sense of ‘the Shaw family’ flows through the organisation, and staff go the extra mile for each and every member of the family. This ethos is enhanced by the fact that all employees are offered shares in the company – a vision that goes back to 2006 when Jeremy Nixey led a management buyout and introduced initiatives to bring employees a sense of ownership, engagement and involvement in the company.

The result is reputation and feedback that speaks for itself – but the team at Shaw are working to make it even better by listening and growing. They’re proud of the services they offer throughout the country, helping to develop innovative care services using individual care plans to allow the individual to feel independent and respected. Bespoke care environments are ergonomically designed to complement the delivery of person-centred care. The architecture considers optimising daylight, creating engaging interiors that are always comfortable, never forgetting that these are people’s homes. The staff celebrate the past, with communal spaces that evoke memories, and respect privacy with residents’ own spaces, to provide the level of care individuals require at a frequency to suit their needs.

Chester families looking after a relative with dementia are benefitting from a new specialist nurse service

“Families are very tired and fi nd it hard to take a break”

Retirement Living

SHIRE MAGAZINE CUSTOMERS

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‘We have found the team always to be helpful, professional and supportive. They are brilliant at including us in features. The magazine is well read and it is effective advertising. We see how well the public react to the magazine here in the centre as they pick up their free copies. Its a great read.’ Janet Dallolio, Afonwen Craft & Antique Centre

‘Shire magazine hits the perfect mark for us. Through a regular programme of promotions and editorial content, Shire is increasing our exposure and extending our audience reach. Our collaboration with Shire magazine is increasing awareness about us, our music and our considerable charitable work.’ Derek Jones, Wrexham Symphony Orchestra

WREXHAM SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

QUALITY CARE IN CHESTER YOU CAN TRUST

When a family is thinking about care for a loved one, they want the best. They want to know that the care home they choose will put the safety, happiness and wellbeing of residents first.

We always know when a Shire magazine hits the shops, as it gets our phone ringing. The circulation area is really well suited to our target market, and the magazine has a quality feel. We certainly get results from our advertising. The team at Shire are always helpful and friendly, making the whole process hasslefree.’

Linda Andrews, Cheshire Cat Narrowboat Holidays

Care

UK’s Deewater Grange care home in Chester, rated ‘Good’ by the CQC, provides residential, dementia and nursing care, giving families peace of mind that their loved ones can stay living there should their needs change. Living at Deewater Grange is all about quality of life. Every colleague in the home is passionate about enaabling residents to enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle, tailored around their unique needs and preferences. The lifestyle team organises a huge variety of group and one-to-one activities, with plenty going on each day.

Deewater Grange is proud to have achieved great results in the recent relatives survey, in fact 97 percent of families feel their loved ones are treated with kindness, respect and dignity^. Once they ’ve settled in, everyone is able to focus on spending quality time together, just enjoying each other’s company.

With the extra support that Deewater Grange offers, new residents are often surprised at what they can do, whether that’s being able to continue with an activity they’ve enjoyed in the past, or even discovering new hobbies with our daily activities. Whether your loved one enjoys a quiet cup of tea in bed before starting the day, likes going for strolls in the landscaped grounds or a chat over a beer, the team spends time to enable them to continue living life the way they want to.

Deewater Grange is part of awardwinning Care UK, one of the UK’s most successful care home operators* with over 40 years’ experience of delivering high-quality care to older people. careuk.com/deewater-grange

Deewater Grange, 93 Chester Road, Huntington, Chester CH3 6BS

Enquiries: Andrew.Kenny@careuk.com or call 01244 455904

*As

^ Care UK relatives survey Aug 2021/Mar 2022. Study operated by QRS Market Research, an independent survey agency.

‘We were delighted with Shire’s help in producing a new look to our advertisements – they gave our ads a new lease of life and superbly promoted our products. The professional and personal approach of the sales team made them a joy to work with –nothing was too much trouble.’ Carla Huxley, Simon Boyd Ltd

‘Once we knew the team behind Shire magazine and understood the vision for the publication we were eager to be part of it. The quality of the magazine is equal to those that attract a £5 price tag, filled with useful and informative articles, rather than simply packed with adverts. The adverts are well thought out and the editorial opportunities often prove equally as valuable as the advertising space, promoting key products and positioning us as experts in our field. Communication is fantastic and pro-active, with a real understanding of how a business might benefit from being in each issue. Shire Magazine is definitely one of the first mediums penned into our advertising schedule

‘Shire Magazine is a very important asset for Premier Windows and Conservatories. Their team takes the time to understand our business which leads to carefully constructed adverts. We have greatly benefited from Shire’s features on our installations. We look forward to continued success with Shire Magazine.’ Caroline Chenery, Premier Windows

‘Shire magazine helps us to reach out to our audiences across the region with quality editorial, uptodate features and advertorial support. Dan and the team at Shire are great to work with and it’s the type of magazine you want to pick up and delve into to find out what’s on.’ Ben Walker, The Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust

‘When I came across the Shire magazine I knew immediately that this was THE place to be seen. We were looking for a magazine that not only covered a wide area but moreover was informative and full of interesting articles on subjects that would appeal to people of all ages and lifestyle.’ Ann Wynne, Wynnes Countrystore

rated by the Care Quality Commission in England and the Care Inspectorate in Scotland.

“Deewater Grange is all about quality of life”

Deewater has its own salon

Charities&Volunteering

In Kirsten’s honour

Staff and students from Coleg Cambria raised vital funds for a children’s hospital after the tragic death of Kirsten Hill, daughter of the college’s creative content officer Kevin Hill. Kirsten died in November, aged 14, after suffering acute myeloid leukaemia.

Learners and employees from Wrexham, Deeside and Northop collected more than £1,500 via activities including

a hamper raffle and stalls at last year’s Christmas Market. The funds will be shared between Alder Hey Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit and Snowdrop Bereavement Centre. “The treatment, care and support Kirsten and we as a family received was amazing,” said Kevin. “She was the life and soul of our family. We miss her every day.”

To support the appeal, visit kirstenhill.muchloved.com.

Golfers tee off for charities

Eighty golfers from across the north of England and Wales swung into action to raise over £8,500 for local causes. Eaton Golf Club, in Waverton, Chester, held a PGA pro-am to raise funds for Clwyd Special Riding Centre and Save the Family. The event’s main sponsor was Sandstone Care Group, an independent quality-driven care home group based in Warrington which has seven homes across the area.

Men’s captain Phil Davies said: “It was a fantastic day with intense competition and, amazingly, the first five teams all on the same score. A big thank you to everyone who took part, and to the sponsors and donors for their support and generosity.”

Fun and thrills at

RHODRI THE NON-STOP CHALLENGE CHAMP

Rhodri Roberts has already scaled Mount Kilimanjaro and climbed Mont Blanc for charity. He has completed the National Three Peaks Challenge and the Six Peaks, and conquered Mount Elbrus, the highest peak in Russia and Europe. Now the legal secretary for Chester’s oldest law firm, Cullimore Dutton, has embarked on a new series of local challenges to raise more money for charity.

The 49-year-old, who lives in Holywell, has taken part in his first triathlon, the Bala Standard, and the Chester Triple, which consists of a 10k, Half and Marathon. This year he plans to do his first Ironman and wants to tackle the Matterhorn. Rhodri, who joined Cullimore Dutton in 2008, said: “What keeps me going is thinking about other people who might not have the opportunity to do something like that. I’ll be doing it for them.”

Adventurous youngsters were given a postpandemic boost when Conwy District Scouts organised outdoor activities with trained instructors at sites across North Wales. More than 170 children from groups in Llandudno, Betws-y-Coed, Abergele, Old Colwyn, Colwyn Heights, Rhos-onSea, Llanfairfechan and Conwy took part in the free scheme, supported by funding from Conwy Valley and North West Wales Coast Community Rail Partnership and Transport for Wales (TfW).

Sessions including archery, canoeing, kayaking, mining, hill walking and dry skiing were enjoyed by Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorer Scouts aged 4-18.

Ray Barnett, lead instructor, said: “Covid-19 had such

a big impact on the confidence and social lives of these young people, it was vital we got them outside, learning and enjoying themselves with friends as soon as we were able.”

Funding is available to community groups within five miles of a TfW station on the Conwy Valley and North West Wales coastal lines.

If you would like a charity event to feature on these pages, just email the details to editorial@shire magazine.co.uk

“It was vital we got them outside”

last

“We miss her every day”

“A fantastic day with intense competition”

Kirsten Hill, from Wrexham, was just 14. Above right: dad Kevin with Adam Dixon, running and challenge manager, Alder Hey Children’s Charity

Winners: the DRP Insurance team, led by pro Lewis Johnson of Holywell On top of the world

Local hero Rhodri

Rearrange

the highlighted letters to

Across

1 Sport that involves hitting a ball called a sliotar with a wooden stick (7)

5 Penelope ____, driver of The Compact Pussycat in Wacky Races (7) 9 Mythological king of Thebes who was the uncle and brother-inlaw of Oedipus (5)

10 Character from The Hunchback of NotreDame who has a pet goat called Djali (9)

11 An Ideal ____, play by Oscar Wilde (7)

12 Who Simple Simon met going to the fair (6)

15 The second-largest city in Syria (6)

17 Song recorded by The Moody Blues in 1964 (2,3)

19 Legendary monsters that feature in the fairy tales of Charles Perrault (5) 21 Beethoven’s third symphony (6)

24 Sea monster in Greek mythology that lived opposite her counterpart, Charybdis (6)

25 Semitic language spoken in Ethiopia (7)

29 The process of deriving a general principle from particular observations (9)

30 Computer programming language for business applications (5)

31 Preparation of green soybeans found in Japanese cuisine (7)

32 17th-century French playwright and actor whose works include Tartu e and The Misanthrope (7)

Down

1 & 4 Down Location of a secret nuclear bunker in Cheshire (4,5)

2 A type of macaque that gave its name to a blood group system (6)

3 Satirical prize that honours unusual achievements in scientific research (2,5)

4 See 1 Down

5 Another name for the cougar (4)

6 ____ Torso, neo-futurist twisted skyscraper in Malmö (7)

7 Georg Philipp ____, prolific German Baroque composer (8)

8 Grade I-listed National Trust property on the north bank of the Menai Strait (4,6)

13 & 28 Down Veined cheese coloured orange by the addition of annatto (10,4)

14 Dorothy’s dog in The Wizard of Oz (4)

16 Prime Minister who founded the Metropolitan Police Service (4)

18 The o cial name of Snowdon (2,6)

20 Caribbean island that is the only country named after a human woman (2,5)

22 The space around the altar in a church (7)

23 Island that can be reached on foot from West Kirby at low tide (6)

26 A musical note with twice the duration of a crotchet (5)

27 Freshwater fish named for its resemblance to a weapon (4)

Sudoku rules

1. Every square has to contain a single number.

2. Only numbers 1 to 9 can be used.

3. Each 3×3 box can only contain each number from 1 to 9 once.

4. Each row and column can only contain each number from 1 to 9 once.

ANSWERS

WHITCHURCH 128 SHIRE MAGAZINE | January/February 2023

Alice Leetham is a writer and puzzle maker from Cheshire. She works in the fintech industry and also enjoys creating quizzes and cryptic crosswords. Contact: alice@downstream.co.uk

Motoring

Lexus NX 350h

Lexus has introduced another SUV derivative – the second-generation NX, a hybrid in keeping with the philosophy of going green where we can, writes Bob Hickman

No doubt about it, the NX stands out. It’s partly due to its size –at 4.66m long and 1.86m wide this is a big car. But it’s also a matter of stature, its sheer imposing presence on the road. The front is almost aggressive in style – not what I’d expect of a Lexus.

To repeat, this is a BIG car. Stopping at a Park & Ride, it was a struggle to fit it into a bay, and I was concerned that an over-zealous attendant might penalise me for being a couple of inches over the white line!

A sloping coupe roof gives the NX a sporty look, but there is still a fair bit of headroom inside. The rear fits three adults comfortably, with decent legroom as well. Plenty of storage has been incorporated, too. The boot capacity is in keeping with the vehicle’s size and will swallow all the luggage five people could wish to carry.

The interior is a delight. Wherever you look, the materials used are high quality and quite tactile. It’s packed with technology, too, which takes some time to get used to. The infotainment system is excellent, with the touchscreen on this model a vast improvement. This is a well-made, stylish and pleasant companion for a road trip.

There are choices to be made. The NX 350h, which was the test vehicle and is the selfcharging hybrid derivative, has the benefit of a four-cylinder 2487cc petrol engine, allied

with an electric motor. I like the concept that you don’t have to plug in the vehicle to recharge – the engine does it for you. In my eyes, this is a huge bonus. You can run on EV mode only, but not for that great a distance; it’s more of an assistance to the petrol engine.

As I’ve mentioned, the NX 350h is not a small car, but even weighing in at 1870kg it has power in abundance. It rockets from 0-60 in 7.7 seconds, and a 124mph top speed would be attainable if it was allowed. Fuel consumption is quoted as 44-47mpg, and during my time at the wheel I achieved 46mpg – virtually spot-on. CO emissions are 133-146g/km.

The warranty is an interesting one. Lexus Relax covers the vehicle for up to 10 years or up to 100,000 miles, but this is available only to customers whose cars are serviced at a Lexus centre (where terms and conditions apply). Paintwork is covered for three years, anti-corrosion for 12, and there’s a threeyear roadside assistance package included. Service is required annually or at 10,000 miles.

Lexus is a brand that has firmly established itself in the premium car sector, and the NX 350h is in direct competition with the BMW X3 and Audi Q5. Out of those three – if you want something slightly different, with a striking appearance – the Lexus may tick the box.

With the Premium Plus pack, the NX 350h has an on-the-road price of £50,260.

Bob is devoted to cars and bikes. After a 30-year career as a police patrol officer and latterly as a sergeant, patrolling the Midlands motorways, retirement beckoned and he embarked on writing about his love of motorcycles and cars. He is a member of the Guild of Motoring Writers and the Midland Guild of Motoring Writers. He rides a Royal Enfield Continental GT and drives a 1994 MG RV8.

“I like the concept that you don’t have to plug in the vehicle to recharge – the engine does it for you”

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Thanks to all of you who have been keeping in touch with us here at Shire HQ. It means so much to hear from you, and who doesn’t love a bulging postbag to start the New Year with! We’ve printed a few of our favourites here. Do keep them coming – we love hearing your thoughts and opinions, as well as news you want to share. As always, please include a picture when you can, and send your correspondence to us at editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk

Appeal for young carers

There are up to 1,400 young carers identified in Wrexham, Conwy and Denbighshire.

WCD Young Carers has launched an appeal to encourage schools, colleges and communities to provide more support and understanding to the challenges they face every day.

Understanding is vital

‘Making Young Carers Count’ hopes to shine a light on the bravery and resilience of hundreds of young carers in North Wales. We want to ignite change in society and raise awareness to the issues a ecting families in the region.The project would like to co-produce a set of resources that can be used to raise awareness, as well as encouraging teachers, sta , parents and pupils to become Young Carers Champions, mentors and ambassadors. For information, visit www.wcd.cymru or email me, sally@credu.cymru Sally Duckers, WCD Young Carers coordinator

Kids’ Christmas thanks

In case you’ve missed an edition or not been able to get to the shops before they’re snapped up, we have a supply we’re happy to send out. Just let us know which copy you’re looking for and we’ll pop it in the post, as long as you send us an SAE for £1.60 to Shire Magazine, PO Box 276, Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 1FR. An even safer bet is to subscribe to the magazine so you never miss a copy again! See page 41 for details. In the meantime, keep writing, keep emailing and keep reading Shire!

Go down to the woods today

We thought some of your readers might be planning to get out and walk o the excesses of the festive season, so are sharing our suggestions for some woodland adventures. The Woodland Trust has more than 1,000 sites that are free to visit and open every day. Whether it’s a crisp, frosty morning or a damp afternoon, it’s great to pull on your boots and thermals and head out for an invigorating stroll. Woods take on a whole new character in winter. Bare branches expose elusive wildlife and hidden history. You can locate your nearest free woodland easily, just enter your postcode at woodlandtrust.org.uk/findawood James Jesson, Woodland Trust site manager

READER FEEDBACK

I just wanted to say how much I enjoy your Shire Magazine. I make sure to get every edition and there is so much to read in it – it is better than most of the paid-for ones! Anne McInerny, Wirral

The last edition of Shire was an absolute tonic for those of us struggling financially. Thank you for sensitive and sensible advice in your ‘Cost of Giving’ article. Anon

Thank you, Shire, for keeping me up to date with whatever’s going on. I find your listings far easier to read than local websites that I struggle to understand. Keep up the good work, Petra Carmichael, Flint

I want to send heartfelt thanks to all those who supported sta from Cullimore Dutton to deliver presents for some of the 9,000 children in Chester living in poverty. We launched a successful campaign to support KidsBank Chester’s ‘One More Gift Appeal’ and collected donations of toys and gifts from our clients, colleagues and the community.

In addition, as sponsors of Chester Rugby Club, we were delighted that their members also got on board, collecting an additional 150-plus toys and gifts, giving us a grand total of over 350 donations.

KidsBank Chester was set up in 2019 by Cathy Pettingale, supplying toys, clothes and equipment to children within a 20-mile radius of Chester. To date it has supported more than 2,500 local children. To be involved was a wonderful experience. Andrew Wright, managing director, Cullimore Dutton

Dashing through the… cold?

In December, Overwater Marina played host to the Audlem Santa Dash, a charity fun run/walk organised with Pau Run & Ride. Despite the cold weather, there was a great turnout of festively dressed competitors for the 5k event, and they stopped o at Overwater for a mince pie and a drink. Thanks go to CRT for allowing use of the towpath, and to the local volunteers who also dressed up and gave encouragement to the participants, some of whom had done the Couch to 5K course run by Matt Capper of Pau Run and Ride. The event raised over £500 for St Luke’s Hospice, and Overwater is planning to make it an annual event.

Check it out

Shire was contacted by a disappointed reader who had travelled to a Christmas market on the day given in our listings, only to find the event had happened the day before. We realise that’s annoying and we apologise. We send our magazine to print in advance of events and can only go on the information we have at the time. Often details are updated too late for us to respond, but we do always encourage readers to check before they travel. This is a good reminder that it’s worth doing.

Family run, 5 star boating holidays on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, just an hour from Cardiff.

With 19 totally unique luxury narrowboats, self-contained and packed with character, we offer an experience you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you need a fourposter bed, real wood burning stove or an on-board hot tub, we want you to feel inspired to get out there and see the Wales you love from a new perspective.

Whether your passion is stargazing, relaxing in a cosy pub or exploring the local trails, a holiday cruise through the stunning scenery of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal is an experience that you can shape to best suit you. Choose where you wake up each morning, take your time and be immersed in the beauty of the canal from the comfort of a hand-crafted, charming narrowboat. You don’t have to go far to get away from it all.

If a day trip is more your style, we offer a variety of options; day boats, pedal boats and canoes for an intimate experience on the canal. However, you want to do it, we can get you out on the water and as close to nature as you can get.

The Boathouse, Hillside Road, Llangattock, Powys, NP8 1EQ, Wales, UK