Shire Magazine July-August 2017

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The best of NORTH and MID WALES, CHESHIRE, WIRRAL, SHROPSHIRE AND HEREFORDSHIRE

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JULY/AUGUST 2017

YOUR NEW LOCAL MAGAZINE

FESTIVAL FEVER

YO U R ESSENTIAL GUIDE

OUTDOOR EVENTS TO EMBRACE THE SUMMER FUN

PAGES OF EVENTS FOR JULY AND AUGUST

WIN!

Show tickets, annual passes and more...

Turn to page 129

WE VISIT

PORTHMADOG

BRYN WILLIAMS

A pretty port with a holy heritage

On the wonders of Welsh spring lamb

CONGLETON

The Cheshire town bears all

F L O W E R P OW E R

WEM

Check out these bloomin’ marvellous shows FOOD & WINE

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For sweet peas and ghosts

www.shiremagazine.co.uk

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FA S H I O N

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ART

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SHOPPING

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GARDENS

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HEATING YOUR HOME & GARDEN

01244 312888 | www.chesterstoves.co.uk Kitchen Street, Chester, CH1 4JH 01745 582254 | www.rnwilliams.co.uk Chester Street, St Asaph, LL17 0RE 002_SHIRE_JA2017.indd 1

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WELCOME DEAR READER, Publisher Dan Bromage dan@shiremagazine.co.uk Editor Kate Speedie kate@shiremagazine.co.uk Production Editor & Stylist Verity Gough verity@shiremagazine.co.uk Art Editor Tom Sullivan Designer Tristan King Staff Writer Laura Clinton Contact editorial

editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk

Contact advertising

advertising@shiremagazine.co.uk

Contributors Dr Paula Hamilton, Gloria Mans, P Parker, John Stubbs, Dr Peter Barling, Helen Cooke, Tommy Bromage, Lizzie Parker, Isobel Speedie, Ursula Kenny, Lynne Allbutt, James Gillespie, Bryn Williams. And a big thanks to our receptionist Georgie.

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ello and welcome to the summer edition of Shire Magazine. It’s hard to believe we’ve got a second publication out in the shops already after our launch but we hope you enjoy this issue as much as so many of you seem to have appreciated the first.

We love getting your feedback so it’s always welcome and as this is a new publication, we do want to take on board your suggestions and contributions. So keep them coming, thank you!

In the July/August issue, it is easy to fill our pages with thoughts of summer. While the lighter nights and warmer days bring a lot of us out and about across the region, we’ve made the most of what’s on offer all around us. We have a big feature on the festivals that are popping up across our patch making the summer a fullon season of festi-fun as we seem to have a different one to cater for every type of festival goer. So even if flowery tents and loud music aren’t your thing, have a read as you will find an event that suits you, starting on page 62.

Cover shows Llanddwyn Island at sunset, on the coast of Anglesey We’ve also focused on flower shows as we’re so lucky to be home to some of the country’s finest. If you like gardening or just fancy a summery excursion, then turn to page 68 and make the most of these heavenly horticultural occasions.

Thank you so much to those who have entered our photography competition, as well as sent in pictures of pets, poems and letters – we love to hear from you so please keep sending in over the summer to editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk. And don’t forget to tell us about your events in time for the next issue! Keep in touch, Kate IN THIS ISSUE

Shire Magazine PO Box 276 Oswestry Shropshire SY10 1FR

Experience the region in bloom read our feature on the biggest and best flower shows in our area on page 98

Telephone: 01691 661270 www.shiremagazine.co.uk

Print ISSN 2514-3913 Online ISSN 2514-3921

WHATS ON? With shows, days out and plenty of what’s on pages, you’ll find it a hard job to pick where to go next

PEFC Certified This magazine is printed on sustainably managed forests and controlled resources. www.pefc.com

SHIRE MAGAZINE is proudly published bi-monthly by Superstar Publishing Ltd. Every effort is made to ensure that the information and advice contained in these articles is correct and appropriate, but no liability or responsibility for loss or damage to any person acting or refraining from action in reliance on or as a result of anything omitted from such articles can be, or is accepted by, the authors, the publishers, their employees or any other persons connected with Superstar Publishing Ltd. Views expressed by contributors to Shire Magazine are not necessarily those of the magazine or of Superstar Publishing Ltd and should be attributed to the authors concerned. Save as expressively permitted by law no part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written authority of the Publisher Dan Bromage, acting for Shire Magazine or Superstar Publishing Ltd. © 2017 Superstar Publishing Ltd, all rights reserved. Registered Number: 10604188.

Get those hips moving and dance the weekend away at the fabulous festivals going on nearby – page 62

GET IN TOUCH! We want to hear from you…

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Tell us about your upcoming events. Just remember that we work in advance so August 1st is the deadline for events news for the next issue, September/October

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Share your reader stories – have you got an extraordinary or exciting 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

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We have lots of things for readers to contribute to:

Reader photos – taken a great shot recently? You don’t have to be a pro – email your best effort and you might get picked! See page 94.

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 122.

Free subscription service Due to the volume of requests, can we suggest that anyone who wants to receive a copy of the magazine please send in a stamped addressed envelope (second class postage is £1.60) to the address above, it will be returned with a copy of the current issue.

Cute pets – is your pet the love of your life? Send a snap with their name, age and anything else you want to tell us. Turn to page 102.

Charities – is there a particular charity you support you’d like us to feature? Drop us a line by email. See page 124.

Send submissions and information by email to editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk

Send us a SAE with £1.60 postage to receive a free copy!

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 3

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Combine History and Family Fun!

• Complimentary cheese and beer on the 4.30pm Llechwedd Deep Mine Tour* • First tours of the day Early Bird ticket available for the Quarry Explorer and Llechwedd Deep Mine* *T’s and C’s apply

(one FREE admission only, not to be used in conjunction with any other offer) SHR50

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PAG E 1 0 9 Floral fashion is summer’s hottest trend, so check out our latest style pics for her and him

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Contents J U LY / AU G U ST 2 01 7 6-54 What’s On The biggest and best guide to what’s going on across the region from North and Mid Wales, across Cheshire, including the Wirral, through Shropshire and now including Herefordshire

The Lightening Seeds’ Ian Broudie talks football and festivals

Check out last issue’s photography competition winners on page 94!

56 Big Cities & Reviews Details of shows and events further afield in the nearest big cities as well as our feedback as we review the shows and concerts we’ve been to see 58 Celebrities Lynne Allbutt talks about the famous shoulders she’s been rubbing at Chelsea Flower Show and Ian Broudie on performing at Snowdonia Outdoor Festival 2017 62 Festival Fever We’ve rounded up our favourite festivals in the area – so grab your flowery headband and pack the camping gear!

68 Summer’s in Bloom We celebrate all things floral at the biggest flower shows taking place right on our doorstep

PAG E 6 8 Find the famous flower shows happening around our region Read our new nature and wildlife column from the RSPB team

73 Town Visit: Congleton The first of our town visits take us to Congleton in Cheshire with its strong industrial past and vibrant community and culture PAG E 1 0 2

75 Town Visit: Porthmadog We pay a visit to Porthmadog, a firm favourite for centuries with a proud history and heritage 77 Wildlife Day Out We head off across the waves in west Wales for a spot of dolphin watching in New Quay

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PAG E 6 0 Ironbridge is the focus for our Day’s Out feature

With so many festivals to choose from where should you go? Let us guide you...

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PAG E 1 1 6 Keep it green with these kitchen must-haves

Health and wellbeing tips and advice for the holidays

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79 Holidays Looking for holiday inspiration?

Check out our guide to some of the top holiday parks in the area 82 Hotel Review We check-in to the charming Castle Hotel in the town of Aberaeron in west Wales 84 Get Active Summer’s here, days are longer so get outdoors and get active with our guide and top tips 86 Food & Wine Resident celebrity chef Bryn Williams brings us his favourite dish of the season and wine hero James Gillespie reflects on some little-known grape varieties 90 Restaurant Review Tasty times to be had at the West Arms Hotel in Llanarmon D.C.

Don’t miss the Rhyl Air Show!

Festival beauty pointers from the professionals

92 Arts & Crafts Artist interview, a round-up of local exhibition news plus the results of our photography competition and the theme for next issue’s submissions 97 Home Shopping We source the hottest home decor trends for the summer

98 Home Visit Take a peek inside a stunning conservatory renovation project 100 Kitchen Shopping Our selection of the best botanical buys to cheer up the heart of the home 102 Pets & Wildlife Check out the photos of some of your furry friends in our pets section and read up on the latest bird and wildlife news from the RSPB and the Wildlife Trust 105 Gardens Our gardens section includes a how-to guide from horticulture experts at Reaseheath College in Nantwich as well as a round-up of plant fairs in the area 109 Fashion & Beauty Keep up-to-date with all the latest styles and top trends with our fashion and beauty guide 114 GP Column Learn all you need to know about prostate cancer 115 Men’s Fashion Look sharp and keep cool this summer with our style picks 116 Health & Wellbeing Read our guide to having a healthy holiday from the experts at Chester University 119 Schools News Read the latest from the schools, colleges and training providers across our region 122 Books & Poetry Book events, signings, writing workshops and new releases plus an interview with two local authors and your poetry submissions 124 Volunteering & Charity A round up of charity news and the inspirational story of one little boy and the success of his horseback therapy sessions 125 Town Visit: Wem Our final visit this issue features the pretty market town of Wem in Shropshire 126 Horoscopes What does the summer hold for you? Find out what’s in your stars with our horoscope forecast provided by Gloria Mans 127 Family We hear from the experts at Glyndwr University on how to make the most of our screentime to benefit all ages 128 Letters Read your views, comments and suggestions in print 129 Competitions Don’t miss your chance to win some fabulous and exclusive prizes in the Shire Magazine giveaways – you have to be in it to win it!

PAG E 1 1 2 July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 5

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NORTH WALES WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

Chirk Castle Summer Events

7TH – 10TH JULY

and learn about their habitat, food and the conservation challenge they face. Using bat detectors, the Ranger Team will guide you on a walk through the gardens. From 8.30pm. Tickets: £5, booking essential.

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7th July, Ladies Night at Let’s Paint Pottery, Prestatyn Enjoy an evening of pottery and wine and create your own special piece!

Get creative and bring along a bottle of your favourite wine and indulge in Ladies Night 6.30-9.30pm. All items will be kiln fired, ready for collection within two weeks. A £5 deposit is required, to book.

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8th-9th July, Barmouth Kite Festival Enjoy a colourful display of kites down on the beach opposite the lifeboat station. Kites of all shapes and sizes will be flying from 10am-5pm each day with Cader Idris as a stunning backdrop. Bring your own kite too.

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9th July, Clwyd Practical Classics 27th Car Show at Barlow’s Caravan Park. This years charity is Prostate Cymru who need vital equipment. Entrance is £4 for Adults, accompanied children under 14 free.

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10th-13th July, Lotus 7 60th Birthday Celebration, Portmeirion Village Light, agile and super cool, these sexy little numbers gained iconic status in the 1960s TV series The Prisoner. So, it’s only natural that the Lotus 7

birthday celebrations should take place in Portmeirion this summer.

Expect a dazzling display of desirable driving!

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10th July, Afternoon Tea Social Event, North Wales Golf Club, Llandudno An afternoon tea social event organised by Home Instead Senior Care which is open to all to join; older people, groups, clubs, carers and support workers. It offers a chance for people to meet up and socialise.

Please book on 01745 772150.

Guided Bat Walks, 11th, 18th, 25th July, 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th August, 8.30-10pm This night time tour creates the perfect opportunity to meet Chirk Castle’s bat population

British Woodcarving Association Exhibition, 22 July -6th August, 10am- 5pm See the work of talented local amateur carvers from the British Woodcarving Association creating their wooden masterpieces on the squash court where you can watch them in action. Free event.

Ruthin Gaol Get creative at the Arty Day at the Gaol on 10th July, 11am4pm. Come and learn to draw pastel portraits with the staff at Ruthin Gaol on a day which promises to be fun for the all the family. Then on 7th August, 11am-4pm, Tales of the Gaol will take place where you can hear stories to amuse all ages!

There will also be Summer Holiday Fun activities and crafts running every day from 1st July31st August, 10am-4pm. Free entry. Go to www.denbighshire. gov.uk for more information.

Mortimer’s Fortress: A Medieval Weekend, 29th and 30th July, 5th and 6th August, and 12th and 13th August, 11am-4pm Journey back in time 700 years and discover how the people lived, ate, fought and dressed in a medieval castle.

With a living history camp, craft demos, archery, combat, armour, and more. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Full steam ahead at Bala Lake Railway!

Wrexfest Wrexfest runs from 26th31st July and brings the best of local arts and music to the town. Live acts include Louise Distras, Lizzi£ Squad, CaStLeS, Doppelganger, I Am Of The Universe and many more. Children’s workshops will be held at Undegun Arts Space and hosted by Voicebox plus there will be Spoken Word and Vagabondi Theatrical Arts. www.wrexfest.com

Alice the Little Welsh Engine Day, July 29th ‘Alice the Little Welsh Engine’ from Pauline Hazelwood’s beautiful childrens’ books will be giving train rides from 10.30am-3.45pm. Alice was the last of the engines to be rescued from Dinorwic Quarry in Llanberis, and Pauline will also be at Llanuwchllyn Station reading some of the stories and signing books.

Steam Gala, August 25th-28th Over four days of the August Bank Holiday weekend, Alice will be joined by all the other steam engines for to commemorate the return after almost fifty years out of use of sister engine DID ‘George B’. There YOU KNOW? will be an intensive train service of BBQ derives from the Caribbean passenger trains and demonstration barbacoa method of freight trains. The will be a well stocked bar tent slow-cooking meat event will climax with a cavalcade of with local real ales over wood steam engines on the and several new Monday evening. www. marquees. Since the bala-lake-railway.co.uk

Raising money at Graig Aid With a whole host of live music and activities, Graig Aid is looking forward to another fantastic year at Graigfechan in the Vale of Clwyd to raise money for local charities.

The event runs from 21st22nd July with music starting at 6pm Friday and 1pm on Saturday with both nights coming to a close at 11.30pm.

As usual there will be a mix of established musicians, new talent and some surprises! There is a camping field available and there

first conversations about holding the event back in 2001, Graig Aid has raised over £60,000 for various local charities, mainly St Kentigern’s Hospice, Hope House, Nightingale House and Ruthin Community Hospital.

For further details and a line-up of acts playing at the event visit www.graigaid.com

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WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES

What’s On at Clwyd Theatre Cymru Alice The Musical, 14th-15th July This enchanting production will be performed by budding young talent aged between 4-19 years from Trap Door Theatre Productions Youth Theatre. The musical takes place at Theatr Emlyn Williams and has a high energy storyline, a twinkling of humour, catchy songs and touching tear jerking moments. Tickets £10 and £8 concessions.

Family Arts Weekend, 28th – 30th July Set your imagination alight as Theatr Clwyd transforms into a playground bursting with activity! There will be workshops and activities plus family films in the cinema, messy play in the studio, face art by Kaleidoscope Faces and dress up costumes.

National Theatre Live – Yerma, 31st August-8th September Billie Piper plays a young woman driven to the unthinkable by her desperate desire to have a child – a fantastic perfomance with a staggering, shocking, climax. Starts at 7.30pm. For more information visit www. theatrclwyd.com.

CADW Heritage Events

Year of Legends at Greenwood Forest Park Wales is celebrating its epic past, present and future and Greenwood Forest Park will be helping to bring this to life. Come along on 26th July, 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th August to the park dressed as your favourite legend. From Robin Hood or King Arthur to the new sporting legends of football and rugby. You can also listen to Welsh legends come to life through storytelling sessions; sit around the giant stones of Poets Corner and listen to the tales of the Mabinogion and marvel at the majestic Snowdon mountain range in the background. Then become a legend yourself and try out the new optical illusion, where you will be transformed into a real life Welsh Giant, or you can shrink your parents! Visit www. greenwoodforestpark.co.uk for more information.

Holyhead Traditional Sailing Festival Embrace the ocean and everything sailing at the Holyhead Traditional Sail Festival on 25th-28th August. Now in its 11th year, there promises to be fun and enjoyment both on and off the water with boat and yacht racing, a parade of sail, Lifeboat open days and a pirate sea battle with canons! The event is hosted

by The Holyhead Sailing Club based in the historic Holyhead harbour. Various types of sea craft will sail their way from across the Irish Sea into the harbour for plenty of displays and activities.

The sailing club, which was founded in 1905 as the Porthy-Felin Sailing Club, now boasts over 600 members and moorings for up to 170 boats.

For more information visit www. holyheadsailingclub.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW? Richard II became king of Richard II at England at the Flint Castle, tender age of 12th August 10 The New York based

Summer Knight School, Harlech Castle, 25th July-22nd August The Knights of Ardudwy are recruiting at Harlech Castle so come along to the Summer Knight School and test your skills. Adult tickets cost £6.50, family: £19.30 and senior citizens, students and children under 16: £4.20.

Event runs from 11am-4pm.

1343 – A Knights Return at Caernarfon Castle, 25th and 30th July It’s 1348 and rumours abound that the newly invested Prince of Wales, Edward, eldest son of Edward III, and also known as the Black Prince, is coming to visit!

Help with the preparations, practise your archery, listen to tales of knightly adventures and discover 14th century castle life.

Family Fun Days at Conwy Castle, 27th July-27th August Enjoy traditional medieval games including archery and sword fighting and handle the birds of prey and learn how they were used in medieval times. There will also be weaponry on display with some sword fighting techniques shown. Prices: adult £8.95, family £26.60, senior citizens, students and children under 16 - £5.80. From 11am-

Oxford Shakespeare Company present this free performance of Richard II at Flint Castle, the historical site in which King Richard abdicated to Henry IV. Audience members are encouraged to bring chairs or a blanket, if it rains the performance will be held on the 13th.

Dragon Adventures, Harlech Castle, 23rd-24th August A fun-packed family weekend, with Alchemy Dragons and Flotsam the Fool! Meet baby and carnival dragons, watch a procession, and listen to tales about our fiery friends. Learn circus skills and make your own kite. Prices: adult £6.50, family - £19.30, senior citizens, students and children under 16 - £4.20. From 11am-4pm.

Medieval Weekend at Conwy Castle, 26th-28th August Conwy Castle will come alive with characters from the medieval period. See how a castle was run, say a prayer with the priest in the chapel, see the guard in charge of the prison tower, watch a traditional Welsh bowyer making bows, and much more! Prices: adult £8.95, family £26.60, senior citizens, students and children under 16 - £5.80.

Event runs from 10am-4pm. Visit www.cadw.gov.wales

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 7

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ANGLESEY COUNTY SHOW

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AT THE SHOWGROUND, GWALCHMAI

Rhai o ffilmia r Haf yn Galeri >>> Some of thi S mmer film in Galeri >>>

NORTH WALES’ PREMIER AGRICULTURAL EVENT

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23.09.17 | 20:00 | £14 Jeremy Hardy: Live 09.11.17 | 20:00 | £16 Tom Stade: I Swear 09.12.17 | 20:00 | £17 ic Hall Hoedown

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“Every trick here is a metaphor for having the courage to take risks.”

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prif sioe - headliner

C I r C O L oO M B iA

“An adrenalin fuelled mix of strength, skill and daring - a great night out.”

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ADVANCE TICKET BOX OFFICE:

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www.angleyseyshow.org.uk Find us on Facebook & Twitter • Reg. Charity No. 510048

“Cerddorion talentog yn herio arddulliau traddodiadol drwy syniadau cyfoes” Aelod o’r Gynulleidfa

7 a 9 Awst 2017 7 & 9 August 2017

“Passionate, powerful and surprising. Made with love and told with wonder – LLECHI is a very special work.”

John Rostron

Sioe syrcas syfrdanol i'r teulu _ cyfan

A thrilling new circus show with guts, gusto and grace

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WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES stickers, Thomas DVD screening, colouring and craft DID workshop, Day Out With Thomas Certificate, balloon YOU KNOW? modeller, storytelling, live Thomas didn’t story re-enactments and feature in the author’s first book, a puppet show. The event terminates at Carrog and The Three Railway does not travel to Corwen.

Engines Ticket prices vary. To book tickets please visit www. dayoutwiththomas.co.uk

Llangollen Railway summer events 1960s Weekend, 22nd-23th July Take a journey back in time to the swinging sixties and relive the sights and sounds of the decade. Visitors are also encouraged to dress up in fashions from the 1960s.

Llangollen station hosts a real ale festival and bar and there will be live music including a Saturday evening concert and 1960s style market stalls. During the day there will be an intensive timetable of steam, diesel and heritage railcar (DMU) including a locomotive in 1960s-style weathered condition.

A vintage rail replacement bus service is in operation between Llangollen-GlyndyfrdwyCarrog. There will also be a classic vehicle display at Glyndyfrdwy and if you come in a 60s era car you can claim one free rover ticket. Ticket prices vary.

North Wales Country Fair returns to Rhug Estate After a three year absence North Wales Country Fair is back on 8th-9th July at the Rhug Estate. See some of the best wood carvers from around the globe; from the local arbour athletes The Clwyd Axe Men, numerous forest machinery demonstrations and an oak frame building will be constructed on site. There’ll be food and craft stalls in the main pavilion, plus an extensive fly tyers row, with professional fly tyers from across the country, casting demos plus the terrier, lurcher and ferret classes. www.rhugcountryfair.co.uk

Day Out With Thomas 10th-13th August, 10am Peep! Peep! Thomas the Tank Engine is back at Llangollen!

This fun-filled event offers children and their families the opportunity to take a ride with Thomas, meet The Fat Controller and enjoy trips on the trains. Activities include: Brake Van Rides with Thomas and Clarabel, unlimited travel on Daisy or Donald and access to the Imagination Station which includes; face painting,

Steam and Jazz Train, 19th August, 7pm Join us for an evening of live jazz music in the function coach from the Tuxedo Jazz Band.

Enjoy a BBQ on the platform at Llangollen Station before departure and an on-train bar will be available throughout the journey. Tickets are £18 in advance and £20 on the evening.

Booking essential.

Real Ale Train, Saturday 9th September, 6.30-9.30pm Enjoy real ales from the well-stocked bar as you enjoy a return journey from Llangollen Railway Station. Food will be available to purchase along with a BBQ on the platform. The real ales will be £3 per pint. Tickets from £16. www.llangollenrailway.co.uk

William Aston Hall at Glyndwr University

Martha Wainwright, 12th July, 7pm.

Singer-songwriter Martha Wainwright is a deeply original talent born in New York and raised in Montreal. Get lost in her hugely expressive voice and captivating stage presence.

Daughter of revered folk legends Kate McGarrigle and Loudon Wainwright III, and sister of celebrated vocalist and composer Rufus Wainwright, Martha grew up on stages with her family. Tickets from £25.50.

Hayseed Dixie, 18th July, 7pm This American band is heralded as the creator of ‘Rockgrass’ – a fusion of bluegrass and rock music.

They first got together in 2000 and are now releasing their 15th studio album which is a collection of both original songs and reinterpretations of R&B and soul classics. Tickets from £17.50 – £19.25.

Go to www.glyndwr.ac.uk to find out more…

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 15TH – 29TH JULY

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15th July and 19th August, Anglesey Farmers’ Market Feast on local delights as wide selection of quality food producers come together on the third Saturday of each month 9am-1pm for the Anglesey Farmers Market. Held indoors at David Hughes School, Menai Bridge, with free parking.

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19th July, Peter Pan, Caer Rhun Hall, Conwy Join Wendy, Michael and John Darling on their adventures with Peter with this new adaptation from Chapterhouse Theatre Company. Presented by special arrangement with Samuel French and in support of Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity. Tickets: adult £15, children £10, family £44.

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23rd July, Ruthin Town Gardens – Open Garden for NGS Visit six contrasting gardens ranging from the large garden of Ruthin Castle surrounded by

ancient walls and picturesque grounds, to beautiful little gardens hidden behind terraced cottages. £7 entry, children free, 11am-5pm.

Homemade teas available.

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23rd-28th July, Abersoch Dinghy Week A fun day out for sailors and non-sailors. Classes of dinghies from Optimists to 49ers, with competitions including the annual Club Challenge Trophy and races for beginners.

The first race on Sunday starts at 11am.

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29th July, North Wales Half Marathon, Conwy Set between the mountains and sea near Conwy, this incredible race starts and finishes on the beach next to the Mulberry Marina and crosses into the Snowdonia National Park along the way.

9am start.

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NORTH WALES WHAT’S ON

What’s On at Galeri Caernarfon

Andre Rieu: Maastricht Concert, 30th July, 7pm Take a front row seat and experience this spectacular musical event on the big screen featuring interviews with André and his special guests. This year celebrates 30 years since André Rieu started his Johann Strauss Orchestra in Maastricht, the setting of this 2017 concert.

Influences: Rhodri Owen, 30th July, 2pm.

Lisa Eurgain Taylor, Galeri’s arts co-ordinator, will be chatting to Rhodri Owen – the designer of this year’s bardic chair for the Anglesey National Eisteddfod.

The talk takes place on the 100th anniversary of Hedd Wyn – winner of the historic ‘Black Chair’ in 1917. Tickets £3.

Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, 3rd – 9th July

Since 1947 Llangollen has staged one of the world’s most inspirational cultural festivals.

This year’s star-studded line-up includes Meinir Wyn Roberts, David Childs, Cory Brass Band, Sir Bryn Terfel, Kristine Opolais, Welsh National Opera Orchestra, Elin Manahan Thomas, The Principality Only

Boys Aloud Academi, Gregory Porter, The Overtones, and bringing down the curtain on the 71st Eisteddfod will be Manic Street Preachers and Reverend and The Makers. Finally, the prestigious ‘Choir of the World’ competition rounds off the event.

Go online to www. internationaleisteddfod.co.uk

Chamber Philharmonia Cologne, 17th August, 7.30pm Come along to St Mary’s Church, Caernarfon, and Fun Runs and Tree indulge in the sounds of Climbing at Erddig the Chamber Philharmonia Cologne with its rich and Those who crave adventure will love climbing to the top diverse programme of classical of some of Erddig’s trees music. Tickets start from £11. Go with The Great Big Tree to www.galeri Climbing Compan. caernarfon.com for There will be two DID YOU more information. opportunities this

Knights and Princesses, at Nantclwyd y Dre, Ruthin

KNOW? summer, on 27th July and Redwoods are the world’s tallest 24th August, to enjoy the view trees growing up of the 1,200acre estate with to 300ft

Discover the newly revitalised gardens at Nantclwyd Y Dre with an Introduction to Horticulture on 10th July, 11am-1pm, with Sheila and Hayley, the gardeners of Our Lords Garden. Cost is £2 and booking is essential – call 01824 708232 to reserve a place.

On 12th August come along to the Knights and Princesses fun day from 11.30am-2.30pm.

Enjoy activities, games and fancy dress prizes!

Going Batty on 29th August, from 12-3pm is a fun day with a prize for the best bat-themed costume, quizzes, mask making, “hunt the bat” and much more.

General admission charges apply. www.denbighshire.gov.uk

our tree climbing experts who will guide you up Erddig’s trees using ropes and harnesses.

Booking is essential as places are limited. For ages six and above only, and they must be accompanied by an adult. Meet one of the rangers in Wolf’s Den then it’s a 10 minute walk from the ticket office, so arrive promptly to ensure you get the most of your experience and wear sensible clothing and footwear, such as trainers or walking boots.

Times are: 10am – 11am, 11am – 12pm, 12pm – 1pm, 1.45pm – 2.45pm, 2.45pm – 3.45pm, 3.45pm – 4.45pm.

Cost is £18.50. To book call Call 0344 2491895.

The Denbigh and Flint County Show The Denbigh and Flint County Show returns on 17th August with the entertainment highlight coming in the shape of the White Helmets –The Royal Signals Motorcycle Display Team. Unique for this year in the Vintage section will be a celebration of 100 years Fordson and Ford Tractors and 75 years of Jones Balers.

There will be displays of stationary engines, tractors, cars, commercial vehicles and

working demonstrations of farm equipment to give visitors a real insight to the way farm machinery has evolved over the years. Running alongside will be the competitive sections with the Companion Dog Show, Horticulture, Fur and Feather, Light Horses, Show Jumping and Livestock.

Children head to Kidzone for Punch and Judy shows and puppetry and visitors can tickle their tastebuds in the Food Hall

where there will be cookery demos, free competitions with prizes and rosettes to be won and an array of locally produced foods to tempt your palate. For more information visit the website: www. denbighandflintshow.com

For those feeling extra energetic there are several parkruns happening across the summer. These free weekly 5km along a set route around the Erddig estate are suitable for beginners or experienced runners. At the end enjoy a post run brew in the Hayloft restaurant. Every Saturday from 1st July-2nd September, 9am-10am.

To register with parkrun visit www.parkrun.org.uk.

10 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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TAKE A TRIP THROUGH HISTORY

Llangollen Horsedrawn Boat Centre HORSEDRAWN BOAT TRIPS Enjoy the peace and tranquility of a horsedrawn boat trip on the upper reaches of the Llangollen Canal, pulled by one of our gorgeous heavy horses. Boats are covered for all weather trips. 2 hour and 45 minute trips are available.

Boat trips along the Dee Valley World Heritage site

WHERE WILL YOU GO TODAY?

Lunches & Welsh Cream Teas can be provided either on board the trip or in our tearoom

AQUEDUCT CRUISES A 2 hour cruise on our fully weather-proofed, centrally heated boat over the mighty Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a World Heritage site.

Full commentary with bar and snacks available.

Llangollen

BOOKING ADVISED

01978 860702 www.horsedrawnboats.co.uk

Est.

ENJOY A HERITAGE TRAIN RIDE THROUGH THE DEE VALLEY

1884

Tel: 01978 860979 www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

Llan Ad 93x63.indd 1

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"One of the 25 greatest rail journeys in the world" -

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29/06/2017 21:28

NORTH WALES WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

What’s On at Pontio

30TH JULY – 5TH AUGUST

Circolombia: Acelere, 21st- 23rd July This is no ordinary circus company. The sheer power of the performers, coupled with mind-boggling skill and a willing30th July-August 4th, Super • Hero Week, Llanberis Lake ness to take Railway Kids, come dressed terrifying as your favourite super hero, risks on cartoon or Disney character and you can travel free of charge! stage will leave you breathless.

Best dressed on each day will win Inspired by Colombia’s diverse a prize. Look out around the communities, Acelere features stations for some special DID Super Heroes.

13 of the most talented YOU KNOW? performers from across Batman ranked Colombia, mixing spectacular circus with number 1 in the ‘50 Greatest Super dance and an original

Heroes in Comic Book History’

•

30th July-4th August, Colwyn Bowling Festival, Eirias Park This has developed into one of the largest bowling festivals in the UK, hosting seven major tournaments. Set within 50 acres of beautiful parkland, the main draw within the festival is the George Davies tournament, established in 1931 – a mixed singles competition open to all bowlers. 9am-9pm.

•

3rd, 10th and 17th August, Barbecue Specials, Bala Lake Railway Llanuwchlyn Station A very pleasant way to spend the evening on a return journey by steam departing Llanuwchllyn at 6.30pm. Stop for a barbecue at Llangower and watch the sun going down across the lake.

Pre-booking required.

•

5th-6th August, LlanBikeFest, Llangollen A festival celebrating all that’s great about motorcycling and will include bikes, stunts, displays, stands, clubs, celebrities and live music. Adults: £10, under 15s free.

•

5th-25th August, Anglesey Dolls House & Miniatures Expo See dolls houses in different scales and eras from Tudor, to Victorian to 1940s. Free event.

soundtrack for their first ever performance in Wales. Performances at 6pm and 8.30pm Tickets are £15 and £10 conc.

Llechi, 7th and 9th August, 8pm A visual, musical and aerial collaboration, inspired by the theme of slate and the story of Bethesda, acknowledges the quarrymen who, determined to build a better future for their children, contributed from their low incomes towards the founding of Bangor University. The performance features 9Bach, an alternative

folk group recently nominated in the ‘Best Group’ category at the Radio 2 Folk Awards. Also performing: Lleuwen Steffan, Siân James, Caleb Rhys, Côr y Penrhyn, John Ogwen and Martin Daws.

National Youth Orchestra of Wales, 2nd August Some of Wales’ finest young musicians perform at Prichard Jones Hall as the National Youth Orchestra of Wales embarks on its 2017 concert tour. www.pontio.co.uk

The Johns’ Bois Choir at the Stiwt

Enjoy the high and the low notes with Johns’ Bois Choir – Doniau’r Ifanc Concert at The Stiwt in Rhosllannerchrugog on 16th July. As finalists in ‘Choir of the Year’ they bring a whole host of talent to the performance including Matthew Baldwin (bass), Harri Graham (tenor), Emyr Lloyd Jones (baritone), Steffan Prys Roberts (tenor and National Eisteddfod Winner),

Samuel Snowden (baritone), Dafydd Glyn Williams (saxophone-cheethams) and Huw Ynyr (tenor). Tickets: £12 and £10 conc. Call 01978 841300 or visit www.stiwt.com.

WoodFest Country Show From champion pole climbing to axe racing, chainsaw carving to extreme mountain biking and dog shows to music festivals, WoodFest Country Show, Caerwys, has something for everyone! Back on 29th30th July from 10am, the event is a celebration of all things wood. Spread over 30 acres the festival, showcases a variety of wood related activities, crafts and forest industries including timber professionals and competitors.

Attractions include cross cut double sawing, lumberjack disciplines, 2 80ft Douglas fir climbing poles, oak framing,

extreme biking, horse logging and Shire horse displays, vintage tractor parades, family dog show, chainsaw carving, The Woodland Village and a forestry zone. New for this year is a sheep show, laser clay shooting and fly fishing!

Kids can try the climbing tower, quad bikes, jeeps, karts, edible art, fun dog show, craft and felt workshops, pyrography, owl experience and ferret handling. Saturday night sees WoodFest Rocks with plenty of musical talent playing into the night from 4pm to 12am. For tickets visit www. woodfestcountryshow.co.uk

Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways Events Jazz In The Park, 3rd, 10th and 17th August Make the most of the long summer evenings and enjoy the mellow sounds of jazz at Tan-y-Bwlch featuring the ever popular Dr Jazz.

With dancing and an ‘all you can eat’ BBQ too.

Classic Car Show & Family Day, August 20th Based at Dinas station, this is a great day out for all the family. Footplate rides, slate shunt challenge, miniature train rides and classic cars.

Rock ‘n’ Roll at Tan-yBwlch, 24th August Rock ‘n’ roll to 1950s style five-piece group the Del Sharrons. Travel to Tan-yBwlch by special train for an evening of food and live music. Go to www.festrail. co.uk or call 01766 516024.

12 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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DAILY TRIPS ACROSS THE PONTCYSYLLTE AQUEDUCT GROUP TRIPS AVAILABLE

• BIRTHDAYS • PARTIES • CELEBRATIONS SUNDAY LUNCH ON BOARD ~ BOOKING ESSENTIAL

The Old Wharf, Trevor, Llangollen Follow our signs from LL14 3SG • W: www.canaltrip.co.uk E: enquiries@canaltrip.co.uk • T: +44 (0) 1978 824 166

The Aberystwyth

Cliff Railway

The longest electric cliff railway in Britain www.aberystwythecliffrailway.com

e R k a a i lway L a l a B Llanuwchllyn, Bala, LL23 7DD • Tel 01678 540 666

E

njoy a nine-mile return journey by narrow-gauge steam train through the beautiful lake and mountain scenery of Southern Snowdonia.

• Café and Gift Shop • Visit the Engine Sheds • Step inside a working Signal Box

www.bala-lake-railway.co.uk Features the largest Camera Obscura IN THE WORLD!

01970 617 642 Cliff Terrace, Aberystwyth, SY23 2DN

014_SHIRE_JA2017.indd 1

‘Y CONSTI’ is a breathtaking setting for visitors to enjoy a range of refreshments. Bowling Alley, Bouncy Castle, Frisbee Golf, Exhibitions, Shops... and much more.

SUMMER EVENTS July 29th

Meet the author and ride the real ‘Alice the Little Welsh Engine’

August 25th – 28th Don’t miss our annual Steam Gala! ~ Plenty of steam trains in action ~

30/06/2017 11:34

WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES

Bird Song and Saxophones at Bodnant Garden

Sea and Tea at Plas Newydd While away the long summer days at Plas Newydd House and Gardens watching the boats sail by on the glistening Menai Strait with the Summer by the Sea Days. Play croquet or enjoy an old fashioned game of pétanque. Then treat yourself to an ice cream in the Sunroom. Open

every day throughout July and August, 11am-4pm.

Normal admission applies.

If gardening is your interest then join head gardener, Bill Warrel, on 19th July, 2pm4pm, for a walk and talk around the garden followed by tea or coffee and a homemade scone in the Mansion Café. Previously gardener at Bodnant Gardens, Bill brings of wealth of knowledge to the Plas Newydd gardens.

Price is £10, including tea or coffee and a scone, normal admission applies and booking is essential. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon listening to a wonderful local Saxophone Quartet in the Pin Mill on 23rd July, 2pm-4pm. Wear suitable clothing and footwear for the weather and bring something to sit. Then on 31st July and 14th August, 11am-12pm, go exploring to find out about the wide variety of bird species that live in Bodnant Garden and how to identify them by sight

Loserville, 12th-14th July British musical written by musicians Elliot Davis and James Bourne and performed by Llandudno Youth Music Theatre, Loserville is inspired by the Son of Dork album Welcome to Loserville.

Starts at 7.30pm. Tickets £12.50.

RSC Live: Titus Andronicus (12A), 4th September, 7pm Arguably Shakespeare’s most violent play, Titus Andronicus depicts the decay of Rome under

for Girls, the Lightning Seeds and Toploader!

Hang on tight!

•

13th August Rhyl RNLI are holding their third annual raft race at Rhyl. The event features jetski stunt displays, high speed rib rides, and a rare opportunity to board a Mersey Class lifeboat whilst it is afloat.

•

living history, crafts, games, armoury talks, archery displays, sword fighting and more.

Musicians will play and sing traditional Welsh and medieval music on their instruments, jesters will entertain and get up to mischief! Prices: adult £6.50, family £19.30, conc. and under 16s £4.20. www.cadw.gov.wales

13th August, Antique Collectors Fair, Bodnant Welsh Food Centre A variety of items including paintings, china jewellery, glass, silver, postcards, memorabilia, linen, books, vintage fashion and more.

The site also has a farm shop selling speciality Welsh foods.

•

20th-27th August, Machynlleth Festival This eclectic weekend includes a wide range of events from choral singing and jazz to chamber music and poetry.

•

What’s On at Theatre Colwyn National Theatre Live: Angels In America, Part 1 (As Live, 15), 20th July, 7pm Set in America in the mid1980s in the midst of the AIDS crisis and a conservative Reagan administration, New Yorkers grapple with life and death, love and sex, heaven and hell. Tickets £12 and £11 concessions.

11TH – 28TH AUGUST

and sound with help and guidance from a specialist from Birdwatching Trips.

These events are free and no booking is necessary, but normal admission fees apply. There are steep paths •11th – 13th August, DID YOU and steps Snowdonia Outdoor Festival Up to 10,000 within the KNOW? are expected to flock to garden so The Monster zipline the first ever Snowdonia wear appropriate in Puerto Rico is 28 Outdoor Festival in Bala with pop rockers Scouting footwear. football fields long.

Beaumaris Castle Battles Knights will do battle to conquer the land, jesters and musicians will entertain, and the townsfolk will demonstrate how life was in medieval Wales during the Beaumaris Medieval Festival on Bank Holiday weekend 26th-28th August, 10am5pm. Watch demonstrations of medieval life,

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

a ruler exhausted by war and loss, who relinquishes power but leaves Rome in disorder. Tickets £12 and £11 concessions.

Visit www. theatrcolwyn.co.uk or call 01492 577888 to book.

26th August, Zip Wire Challenge, Llechwedd Slate Caverns, Start in the Caverns, the world’s largest fully underground zip line and adventure course.

Then onto Titan, which is the largest zip zone in Europe with three zip lines! Each rider travels over 2km! £75 per adult.

•27th-28th August, Caereuni

Open Garden for NGS See rare trees, shrubs and plants set in a quirky themed gardens. Includes a Japanese water garden, old ruin, Spanish courtyard, Welsh gold mine, Chinese peace garden, Mexican chapel, and a 1950s petrol garage.

2pm-5pm.

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 15

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NORTH WALES WHAT’S ON

Become a wild outdoor adventurer at Penrhyn Castle!

Summer holiday Sundays are all about free range fun at Camp Penrhyn.

On 23th and 30th July, 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th August, from 11am-4pm, explore the world of bush craft and camping. Join the Wild Elements team and learn how to build shelters, follow nature trails, cook around the camp fire, learn camping skills or make outdoor crafts plus archery (£1.50). Free event but general admission fees will apply.

Wild Nature days are being held throughout the summer to help children tick off the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 and 3/4. The adventure starts on 24th July, with Insects and their Friends. Explore and learn about the creepy crawlies that live all around us by taking part in a bug

What’s On at Rhyl Pavilion The Sons of Pitches, 21st July Prepare for a complete televisual experience to be brought to the stage to entertain and amuse you from start to finish in the SOPTV Show! Expect performances of your favourite TV themes, sketches about panel shows, quiz shows and talent competitions, and have

your wits about you when they hand over the remote control to the audience for the group’s trademark improvisation! Show starts 7.30pm. Tickets are £22.50 and £20 concessions and for groups and schools of 15+.

Bon Jovi Experience, 19th August This is the world’s first and finest tribute to Bon Jovi has actually performed with Jon Bon Jovi himself and feature on his official website. This five piece band, led by front man Tony Pearce, power their way through two hours of rocking tunes.

Starts 7.30pm. Tickets are £20, £18 conc. and £10 for children.

Red Arrows Blast to Rhyl

The world-famous Red Arrows display team will take to the skies at this year’s Rhyl Air Show with their daring hunt, exploring inside a tree aerobatic displays set to thrill and building your very own spectators. This action packed bug hotel to take home. two day extravaganza will be held on 26th-27th August Then on 31st July, DID YOU from Rhyl Promenade. it’s Wild Animal KNOW? Tracks and See a whole host of Trails. Look at The very first incredible civilian the different Red Arrow display ways to track was in Cirencester animals and make your on 6th May, very own ink 1965 Experience the glorious track trap to 126ft tall Pontcysyllte use in your own garden at home. Learn Aqueduct like different ways to attract never before wild animals in your garden. at Under the Then we have Bushcraft Arches. Enjoy Skills and Adventure on 7th live music from August. Learn survival skills outdoors, how to use the likes of The a map and compass or have Rhythm Train, a go at some Geocaching Bobcat Billy’s and cooking on a real fire.

Moonshine Mission, 32.Red For more information visit and The Moments on 14th www.50things.org.uk

aircraft and displays including RAF aircraft, the Dakota, Spitfire and Hurricane. The programme will also feature a whole host of incredible civilian aircraft. The event is organised by Denbighshire County Council and supported

by Rhyl Town Council.

Admission is free. For more, go to www.rhylairshow.co.uk

Music and light ‘Under the Arches’

July. Throughout the night

there will be entertainment including fairground rides then, as darkness approaches, the aqueduct will be bathed in stunning lighting, searchlights and lasers with a spectacular firework display finale. Tickets £15, under 16s £8, family £40. www.underthearches.co.uk

The Sooty Show, 3rd September, 11am and 2:30pm Direct from CITV, Sooty, Sweep and Soo head into town accompanied by TV’s Richard Cadell. Mr Slater has put Richard in charge of running the show but nothing is going to plan! Sooty’s magic tricks turn very messy and Sweep’s escapology act has him all tied up. Tickets: £13 adults and £11 for children.

For more information and to book tickets call 01745 330000 or visit www. rhylpavilion. co.uk.

Anglesey Agricultural Show

The largest local agicultural show returns to Mona Showground from 15th-16th August. See livestock, exhibition, equestrian events, food hall, trade and vehicle stands. www.anglesey show.org.uk

What’s on at Techniquest Glyndwr

Slime! 29th July-11th August Get squeezing and splatting as fantastic fluids take to the stage in this gooey, gungy extravaganza!

Explore the amazing properties of slime and its strange behaviour!

Pick of the Pack, 12th-31st August, 1pm and 3.30pm What’s your favourite science experiment? The Techniquest presenters perform it there and then in this spectacular show! www.tqg.org.uk

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WOODFEST COUNTRY SHOW

A FUN PACKED WEEKEND FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

29th & 30th JULY 2017 - NORTH WALES (A55, JUNCTION 31) An interactive Country Show, full of exciting and interesting things to do - now in its 17th year!

Step back in time and see craftsmen and women carrying out traditional crafts and skills whilst creating beautiful furniture, functional art,sculptures, crafts and more! tion Lumberjacks in ac

CAMPING AVAILABLE

Loads for the kids!!!

Telephone booking only

80 foot pole climbing

150 ATTRACTIONS PLUS

WOODFEST ROCKS

You can buy these!

A night of music on Saturday 29th July

Amazing wood sculpture

starting 4pm - Midnight See website for artists !

Shire horses on show

WoodFest Rocks!

Leave the A55 at Junction 31 and WoodFest Country Show is sign posted 1 mile from the Junction.

Watch our WoodFest film and for more details visit:

woodfestcountryshow.co.uk 017_SHIRE_JA2017.indd 1

Eight event arenas with exhilarating displays and competitions consistently throughout both days.

8 EVENT ARENAS 150 EXHIBITORS

Wood Crafts • Pole Climbing Chainsaw Carving • Arb Forestry • Lumberjack Sports Fly Fishing Logging • Oak Framing Laser Clay Shooting • Fly Fishing Country activities TICKETS AVAILABLE Axe Racing • Extreme ON THE DOOR - COST Mountain Biking S: Adult 1 day £14.00* Lots For the Kids!

Adult 2 day £24.00* Including Funfair

Child 1 day £3.50* Child 2 day £5.00* OAP 1 day £12.00* OAP 2 day £21.00* Rocks 1 day Combo £22.0 0*

More info: Tel

01745 583034 Office hours Monday - Friday 10am - 5.00pm

*Plus booking fee

TICKETS CHEAPER WHEN BOOKED IN ADVANCE ON-LINE!

30/06/2017 11:35

NORTH WALES WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

What’s On at Venue Cymru

27TH AUGUST – 7TH SEPTEMBER

•

27th August-3rd September, Llyn Rhaeadr – Open Garden for NGS Hillside garden blending natural wildlife areas with garden plants, shrubs, vegetables and fruit. There is a small lake with 20 species of waterfowl, fish and wildlife ponds, waterfalls, woodland, rockeries, lawns, borders and a variety of flowers.

From 2pm-5pm. Admission £3.50, children free.

Bryan Adams, 9th July, 4pm Join rock legend Bryan Adams at Eirias Stadium, Colwyn Bay. His 13th studio album, Get Up was released last year and features a solid collection of beautifullycrafted rock songs including Brand New Day, You Belong To Me, and Thunderbolt.

Lulu, The Beatles, Sandie Shaw, The Drifters, Frankie Valli, Cilla and more with new songs for 2017!

Come along to the American Diner to re-live the fabulous songs of the rock ‘n’ roll era with Let’s Twist Again, now in its sixth year. Hosted by ’ Big’ Tony Tremendo, accompanied by live band The Twisters.

Tickets £22 and conc £20.

The Ken Dodd Happiness Show, 12th August, 7pm Multi-award winning comedian and entertainer Ken Dodd provides the non-stop laughter and song with everything from ballads to grand

Let’s Twist Again, 11th August, 7.30pm Enjoy hits from legends such as Elvis, Dusty,

•

2nd-3rd September, Beaumaris Food Festival Sample culinary delights from international, national and local food businesses ranging from well known major producers to kitchen table artisan cooks.

See chef demos, craft marquee, children’s activities and music stage with live bands and choirs. £5 pp for a one day pass, £7 weekend pass, under 14s free.

•

3rd Sept, Bala Standard Distance Triathlon A 1.5k swim in Llyn Tegid, 39k bike and 10.25k run.

9.30am start.

Entry fee £65.

•

7th Sept, Brynkinalt Hall Open Garden for NGS Rhododendron walk, historic ponds, well, grottos, ha-ha and battlements, new stumpery, ancient redwoods and yews. Homemade teas available.

2pm- 5pm. £4 entry children free.

Wrexham County Borough Museum Events Super Stitchers!

This Quilters Session takes place on 20th July, 10.30am -12.30pm and will involve making useful 3D items such as needle cases and will be led by Val Shields. Cost of the is £15 per person, which includes £5 for materials and refreshments.

DID YOU KNOW? Ken Dodd got his signature buck teeth after a childhood bike accident

Messy Museum, 24th and 31st July, 14th and 21st August, 10.30am-12pm Painting, sticking and general creative messy fun for children.

Craft themes include, door hangers, self portraits and mini paper shields. Costs only £1 per child!

Bersham

opera! Tickets £23 and £20 concessions.

The Orbison Story, 8th September, 7.30pm This semi-autobiographical celebration of Roy Orbison’s musical legacy is unmissable!

Barry Steele will take you on a musical journey in time from the early sun years right through to the late 80s including Roy’s time with the Traveling Wilburys and his internationally acclaimed concert ‘The Black and White Night’. Special guests help celebrate music from other musicians that Roy toured and performed with. Tickets £21.50.

For more information and to book visit www.venuecymru. co.uk or call 01492 872000.

Ironworks Guided Tour, 10th August and 2nd September, 10.30-11.30am Learn about ‘Iron Mad’ Jack on a short walk to the Ironworks site. Wear sturdy footwear. www.wrexham.gov.uk

Live performances at Rhuddlan Castle The Tempest, 13th July, 7pm and 14th July, 12pm and 7pm Taking Flight Theatre return with their unique take on Shakespeare’s The Tempest.

Expect lots of laughs,

physical comedy and live original music in this familyfriendly show. Performance supported with BSL/SSE and audio description. Adults £14.50, family £35, conc. and under 16s £10, children £5.

Legends on Wednesdays, 26th July-30th August, 11am-4pm Stories of Welsh legends will be brought to life every Wednesday during the summer holidays.

Children can get involved in craft activities, quizzes and storytelling which will vary each week. Adults £4, family £11.90, senior citizens, students and children under 16s £2.60. For more information visit online at www.cadw.gov.wales

18 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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CORRIS RAILWAY Narrow gauge steam trains in Mid Wales will run from Corris Station on Saturdays and Sundays in July and Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays in August. Corris Station plus the railway shop and museum can be found in Corris village. TURN OFF THE MACHYNLLETH / DOLGELLAU A487 AT THE BRAICH GOCH INN. 26TH & 27TH AUGUST ~ THE CORRIS RAILWAY SOCIETY’S MODEL RAILWAY EXHIBITION AT THE PLAS IN MACHYNLLETH

Mari, o Sir Gaerfyrddin, yn cystadlu yn y dosbarth Tywysydd Defaid Ifanc yn Sioe Frenhinol Cymru 2016.

Trains leave Corris Station on the hour from 11.00am – 4.00pm, with a round trip taking 50 minutes, including a guided tour of the 139 year old engine shed and workshops at Maespoeth

TICKET PRICES: Adult £6.00, Children (5 – 15yrs) £3.00 Seniors (60yrs & over) £5.50 Family Ticket (2 adults, 2 children) £15.00 Museum admission ~ FREE

Mari, from Carmarthenshire, competing in the Sheep Young Handler class at the 2016 Royal Welsh Show.

rwas.wales

T: 01654 761303 • W: www.corris.co.uk • SatNav: SY20 9SH

#SioeFrenhinolCymru #RoyalWelshShow

e5043 Petersens RWAS Summer Fair Ad A4.indd 1

Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd July 2017 10.30am - 6.00pm Bryngwyn’s Summer Fayre features the best of regional produce, garden sculpture, high quality fashion, superb woodcarving, ceramics and unusual plants and trees.

A two day outdoor event in the beautiful grade II* gardens at Bryngwyn, set in 80 acres of parkland. Our poison garden, unique in Wales, contains over 100 poisonous plants. Bryngwyn Hall is on the A490 midway between Welshpool and Oswestry.

Bryngwyn Hall

Bwlch-y-Cibau, Llanfyllin, Powys SY22 5LJ www.bryngwyn.com enquiries@bryngwyn.com

01691 648647 / 07799 116644 www.facebook.com/bryngwynhall

Entry: £4, Children under 12 free Dogs on leads welcome Delicious refreshments available

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SHOP RELAX EXPLORE

Summer Fayre Bryngwyn Hall

5/5/17 3:00 PM

Enjoy shopping in a relaxed atmosphere – discover traditional Welsh bed covers, woven throws and picnic rugs, country & outdoor clothing, sheepskin slippers, crafts and gifts for the home & garden.

Relax in our café – famous for home-made cheese scones, afternoon teas and a tempting selection of cakes and drinks. We also have dog-friendly grounds and a woodland walk to King Arthur’s Stone to explore.

Dinas Mawddwy, A470 Plenty of parking, with easy level access. www.meirionmill.co.uk

01650 531311 THE PERFECT PLACE TO STOP IN BEAUTIFUL SOUTH SNOWDONIA

30/06/2017 11:43

MID WALES WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

Aberystwyth Arts Centre

1ST JULY – 28TH JULY

Solem Quartet with Rosanna Cooper, David 1st July-30th September, • Campbell and Summer Exhibition, Elan Valley Art Club Rhayader Art Group Ruth Nelson return by popular demand to The Solem showcase their collective local talent. Everyday from 10am-4pm Quartet returns at the Elan Valley Visitor Centre. to Aberystwyth Cards and prints will be on sale on 22nd July as part of its MusicFest celebrations. Now back •14-16th July, The Llandrindod Cycle Festival Rides out for for their fourth year, this resident ensemble came all abilities. Contact 01597 together when studying at the University 825151 or go to www. llandrindodcyclefest.org.uk of Manchester and takes its name from DID YOU the University’s motto Arduus ad •16th July, PopKNOW? solem (‘Striving for the sun’). During up Archeology Picnic Enjoy your Motown founder 2017 the quartet have started on sandwiches whilst a five year venture to perform the Berry Gordy was learning about the archaeological features once a professional complete cycle of Beethoven string around of the Elan quartets. The event takes place in the boxer Valley. Suitable for all Great Hall from 8pm. the family. Meet at Pont ar Elan at 12pm.

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16th July, Open Gardens at Garthmyl Hall Enjoy a walk through this Grade ll listed Georgian manor house surrounded by five acres of grounds, followed by a homemade afternoon tea.

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16th July, Beili Neuadd – Open Garden for NGS, Rhayader This beautiful two-acre garden is open to the public as part of the Open Garden season. Set in the foothills of the Cambrian Mountains, this is an exciting, evolving garden with herbaceous borders, ponds, streams and wooded areas.

The Welsh Chamber Orchestra This fantastic orchestra makes its debut at MusicFest on 22nd July with a programme that spans 300 years, from Vivaldi’s muchloved concerto for two cellos and a delightful divertimento by the 16-year-old Mozart, through to the popular Sea Sketches, written in 1944 by the Barry-born composer Grace Williams and the première of a brand new work by the Jamaican composer Eleanor Alberga. The Welsh Chamber Orchestra, founded in 1986, performs throughout the UK and Europe performing with many of the world’s greatest soloists. Tickets: £18 (£16 conc).

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20th July, The Ludlow Jazz Collective Ludlow-based restaurateur and pianist, Paul Brooks, has brought together established musicians Roy Johnson, Erika Lyons and Richard Williamson for this quartet. The collective play melodic modern jazz standards, latin and blues on piano, sax, bass and drums.

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21st-28th July Llanfyllin Music Festival For just over 40 years, the Allegri String Quartet has been playing each summer to delighted audiences at St. Myllin’s Church, Llanfyllin. Those first concerts with the original quartet eventually developed into the annual Llanfyllin Music Festival which now features artists of international calibre.

Martha Reeves & The Vandellas Bringing the smooth sounds of Motown to Aberystwyth Arts Centre on the 11th August, these Motown mavens first started in 1963 when they moved from being Marvin Gaye’s original backup singers to stars in their own right with Come and Get These Memories, Heat Wave, and Quicksand. When you talk of Motown legends they don’t come much bigger than this!

Flashdance Dance like you’ve never danced before from 16th August-2nd September. This inspiring and unforgettable story tells of 18 year old Alex, a welder by day and ‘flashdancer’ by night, who dreams of going to the prestigious Shipley Dance Academy and becoming a professional dancer. When a romance complicates her ambitions, she harnesses it to drive her dream.

Radical Crafts This unusual exhibition runs throughout July until 2nd September.

Expect the unexpected!

Go to www.aberystwyth artscentre.co.uk

Welshpool and Llanfair Light Rail Ham Radio Weekend Over the weekend of 12th-13th August ham radio enthusiasts will be setting up their radio station on the platform at Llanfair Caereinion station. Using the special call signal GB4 WLR, they will be broadcasting to the world – last year they spoke to fellow enthusiasts all over Europe and even in North America. Amateur radio friends can call sign, and then come and see the team at Llanfair Caereinion in action! The Ham Radio weekend is in conjunction with the orange Vintage Train timetable and normal fares apply on all trains.

Fish and Chips Train Travel the special evening train from Llanfair Caereinion on either 26th July or 26th August and enjoy a slap-up fish and chip supper. At Welshpool, passengers will be served their meal to enjoy on the return journey, with a pause at Castle Caereinion to stretch their legs and to enjoy the view. Prices start from £16 for an adult including travel. Advance booking is essential.

Gala Weekend From 1st-3rd September, visitors can expect to see every operating engine in use. Traction engines, steam cars and lorries, a model railway exhibition, demos and trade stands are just some of the attractions. There will also be a shuttle bus to the Llanfair Garden Railway Show. For info, timetables and to book tickets visit www.wllr.org.uk.

Let’s all have a party!

Celebrating 25 years since it first kicked off, Sesiwn Fawr Dolgellau is back on 21st-23rd July for an almighty round-up of the best world folk music, literature and comedy acts around. This year the event promises to be the biggest yet with Coco and The Butterfields, Alys Williams, Peatbog Faeries and Climbing Trees already confirmed. The line up looks very appetising, and as usual there will be literary and comedy events held over the weekend. This is a world music event worth attending! Weekend passes for only £35. Go to www. sesiwnfawr.cymru for tickets.

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WHAT’S ON MID WALES

Theatre Hafren

AdiictDance – The Wicked Wizard of Oz If you think you know the witch, think again…Follow the yellow brick road on Saturday 22nd July for a final time with this unusual and energetic take on The Wizard of Oz and Wicked.

We only ever heard one side of the story. Tickets cost £10 or £8 concessions.

Three Legg’d Mare This Aberystwythbased band specialise in traditional songs with a difference.

On 25th July, let this group of multi-instrumentalists take you to Wales, England and far beyond, with close harmonies and songs of madness, love, death and adventure.

Film screening: Lion On 26th July, come and watch the tale of five-yearold Saroo who gets lost on the streets of Calcutta, manages to survive living on the streets, escapes all sorts of terrors and close calls in the process, before being adopted by an Australian couple. 25 years later, he embarks on one of the greatest needle-in-ahaystack quests of modern times, to find his lost family.

Tickets £5 (inc. tea and cake) or £3 for film only.

I, Daniel Blake This film screening of the Ken Loach directed film on 30th August tells the tale of widower Daniel Blake (Dave Johns) who is forced to go on benefits after suffering a heart attack but his life is further thrown into disarray when this lifeline is suddenly taken away. Tickets cost £5 or £3 for film only. www.thehafren.co.uk

Machynlleth Festival 2017 Machynlleth Festival, which takes place in the beautiful market town in mid Wales from 20th27th August is back with a packed programme of music, art and culture. Performances throughout the week include: Professor Robin Huw Bowen on the triple harp; the newly formed Machynlleth Male Voice Choir; virtuoso violinist Christopher Garrick and his Budapest Café Orchestra and this year sees a free Children’s Concert; ‘Musical Myths’ with narrator Chris Jarvis from TV’s CBeebies and outstanding pianist Ashley Wass.

There will also be exhibitions, a presentation of the Gwobr Glyndwr Award, for an Outstanding Contribution to the Arts in Wales, lectures, talks and interviews by eminent broadcaster Christopher Cook, plus a Masterclass by

the famous Welsh tenor Dennis O’Neill CBE. A highlight is the recitals from the world-famous Vienna Piano Trio; Brecon based violinist Rachel Podger and harpsichordist Marcin Swiatkiewicz.

On the final day, audiences are in for a feast of music-making when two quartets, the Solem String Quartet and the Ruisi String Quartet, come together to perform Mendelssohn’s great Octet for Strings, a DID YOU masterpiece written when he KNOW? was only sixteen years old.

‘Lamb’s Wool’ was All events take place in made from apples, the converted chapel, The Tabernacle. www.moma. sugar, nutmeg and beer, and drunk on machynlleth.org.uk

Twelfth Night

Welshpool Country Music Festival Country fans welcome back this popular festival which takes place over a music filled weekend of 14th, 15th and 16th July on the Powis Castle Showground.

Festivities begin with the Welshpool Westerners charging down the bank in traditional costume with guns blazing, before the Showcase stage and Main stage kick off their acts. Performers signed up for 2017 include father and son duo, Clear Cut, renowned musician Stubby and returning acts; Emma Swindell, Kay ‘D’, The Chris Dun Band and Pedro. Other attractions include trade and food stalls and free boat trip from the festival site along the local canal where you can stop for a bite at Rosie’s Tea Tent.

Free camping. Weekend tickets cost £35 and day tickets from £12.50. Visit www.countrywestern.org.uk

Model railway exhibition at Corris Come along to The Corris Railway Society’s Model Railway Exhibition at The Plas in Machynlleth on 26th and 27th August. See the model displays and layouts in various gauges and purchase that special item for your own layout. There will be trade and craft stands, refreshments, light snacks and free car parking. The Railway will be open and running their steam trains along the Dulas Valley. Visit www.corris.co.uk.

A very special place now has a new café

Melin Tregwynt, makers of welsh woolen blankets, throws, cushions, upholstery, clothing, accessories, fabrics and bags now has a cafe on site. Visitors to the mill, or those browsing the shop’s collection of handmade items can now enjoy the breathtaking scenery while enjoying a hot beverage and delicious homemade food. The small white-washed woollen mill, has been located in a remote wooded valley on the Pembrokeshire coast since the 17th century and Melin Tregwynt fabrics have gained a reputation for being simple in spirit, satisfying in quality and timeless in design. www.melintregwynt.co.uk July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 21

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MID WALES WHAT’S ON

National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth unpublished music from the manuscripts of Iolo Morganwg, Ifor Ceri, and Nicholas Bennett and his research into the Beethoven arrangements of 19th century Welsh melodies published by George Thomson.

Film: Hedd Wyn, Certificate 12 On 31st July see the screening of this film that celebrates nearly a century since the death of Hedd Wyn, the nom de plume of Trawsfynydd-born Ellis Evans.

Arthur and Welsh mythology The Mabinogion, folk legends and local myths and tales have formed a part of Wales’ cultural inheritance from very early times to the present day. This exhibition which runs from 22nd July until 16th December, explores some of the most colourful characters from the collective Welsh mythology via Library’s vast screen and sound archive.

Chris Grooms Join Chris Grooms on 27th July as he shares his illustrated journey arranging

Royal Welsh Show

The pinnacle event in the British agricultural calendar, the Royal Welsh Show, is back for its four-day spectacle on 24-27th July at the showground in Llanelwedd.

Every year, the livestock classes attract over 7,000 entries from far and wide promising an exciting round of competitions and displays. Activities include forestry, horticulture, crafts, countryside sports, food and drink and a 12-hour programme each day of entertainment. Attractions include the incredible Lorenzo International. Horse Display; Kangaroo Kid; an extreme stunt show performed on quad bikes; the RAF HAWKS Display Team and Black Mountains Falconry, Tristar Carriage Driving, Merion Owen and the Quack Pack, Inter Hunt Relay and much more! www.rwas.wales

Story-maps, Welsh folk tales and children’s book illustration Join Valériane Leblond, artist and illustrator of The Four Branches of Y Mabinogi, and Peter Stevenson, storyteller and author of Welsh Folk Tales on 23rd August where attendees can create and illustrate a children’s book based on Valériane’s new illustrated map of Welsh Folk Tales Event suitable for families and children aged 7 and above. From 2-4pm. www.llgc.org.uk

Workhouse Fest 2017 Workhouse Festival, is back from 7th-9th July in Llanfyllin, Powys for a weekend of music, arts and crafts. Dubbed as a ‘happy weekend’, aimed at people who want to relax and have a good time with friends and good music, revellers can dance to the outdoor live music and acoustic area, while the DJs will spin their sounds from the Dub Van in the field. Expect plenty of tasty food, a great bar and chill out zone and an extensive kids area, clear of the arenas, but close enough to keep an eye on them.

Run by volunteers to raise money to continue the ongoing renovation of the building for the Community, Arts, Education and the Environment, there’ll be workshops for healing, fabric and knitting and more. Tickets cost £38 adults, £25 for over 12s. Beds are available in The Bunkhouse.

Call 07534 354082 to book and for a full programme of workshops and music acts visit www.the-workhouse.org

Aberaeron Festival of Welsh Ponies

Come to Aberaeron on 13th August to see this unique event that showcases every aspect of the wonderful breed that is the Welsh pony and Cob. Exciting events are planned throughout the day in the Square Field, Cae Sgwar right in the middle of Aberaeron. Horse and pony entry is free. Go to: www.aberaeronfestival.co.uk

The Green Man is 15!

PJ Harvey, Ryan Adams, Ride, The Shins and Future Islands are just some of the artists that will be heading to Green Man Festival for it’s fifteenth birthday knees-up.

The festival is set to be the best yet with a huge haul of local, lipsmacking ales, heap loads of scrumptious grub, music, mayhem and more.

Joining double Mercury Prize winner, PJ Harvey, will be popular country music maverick, Ryan Adams while Future Islands bring their silky, synth dappled grooves from the US to Wales for the first time ever.

90s indie legends, Ride, will be performing their first gig in over 15 years and take the headline spot on Thursday evening.

Green Man 2017 takes place in the beautiful Brecon Beacons from 17th-20th August, putting glorious musical performers in the most magical of settings.

With 10 unique areas, there are whole worlds to explore – from late night, frisky goings-on in the Far Out field, to the best in comedy and citerature in Babbling Tongues, over one hundred beers and ciders in The Courtyard to beaker-fizzing experiments in Einstein’s Garden, and loads more besides, there’s no better place to dive in and see where you end up. To book tickets and for a full line-up visit www.greenman.net.

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WHAT’S ON MID WALES

Aber MusicFest MusicFest Aberystwyth is celebrating it’s 30th anniversary with an ever expanding unique and innovative classical music festival based in Aberystwyth, Ceredigion.

Offering a packed daily programme from 10am-10pm, which takes you from orchestras in concert halls, to ensembles in abandoned libraries, to string quartets on street corners set against the spectacular Aberystwyth coastline, visitors are in for an eight day classical music spectacle.

Over 100 concerts, recitals, performances, showcases, classes, workshops, masterclasses, exhibition and talks will take place while the main festival programme offers a diverse mix of popular, challenging and the MusicFest speciality of rarely heard ensembles including several works for two cellos with Vivaldi’s Concerto for two cellos in G minor and Arensky’s Quartet for 2 cellos; with Solem Quartet and Sacconi Quartet in residence the programme will also feature Mendelssohn’s Octet in Eb Op. 20.

A free fringe programme offers classical, jazz, traditional and folk music including Elfen, Ffynnon, Sianed Jones, Chris Grooms, Peter Stevenson, Deuair with storytelling from Peter Stevenson and Jez Danks. www.musicfestaberystwyth.org

Wyeside Arts Centre

Angels In America - Part 1, Millennium Approaches (15) On Thursday 17th August at the Market Theatre, bring the popcorn and settle in to watch The National Theatre Live performance of this new staging of Tony Kushner’s multi-award winning two-part play. Directed by Olivier and Tony award winning director Marianne Elliott the story is set in America in the mid-1980s in the midst of the AIDS crisis and a conservative Reagan administration, New Yorkers grapple with life and death, love and sex, heaven and hell. Tickets cost £13.50 or £11.50 concession.

André Rieu’s 2017 Maastricht Concert Watch the screening of ‘The King of Waltz’, André Rieu’s legendary annual Maastricht concert on 22nd August at Market Theatre. Set in the town square in his Dutch hometown, the spectacular concert features the maestro in his element, along with his 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra, sopranos, tenors and very special guests. ickets cost £16 or £15 concession.

Driver for a fiver at Rheidol Railway

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 22ND JULY – 30TH JULY

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22nd July, Welshpool Canal and Food Festival Join in with the free activities on the canal, including coracle racing, angling, canoeing and boat trips, and wander around the tasty food and fabulous craft stalls in the Church Street car park.

Steam enthusiasts can drive a real steam engine for only £5 on 18th July and experience a true childhood dream this summer at the Vale of Rheidol Railway. Children can also take a turn at driving ‘Margaret’ the steam engine who will be operating on yellow and green timetable days at the Devil’s Bridge Station. All funds raised from footplate rides and Driver for a Fiver will go towards the restoration of locomotive No.7 ‘Owain Glyndwr’. www.rheidol railway.co.uk

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DID YOU KNOW? A honey bee can fly for up to six miles, and as fast as 15 miles per hour

POP! A Magical Comedy Show With his faithful teddy bear, deckchair and fantastic basket of tricks, Christian Lee is all set for a lovely day at the seaside…until the day takes a turn and things don’t quite work out as planned. Children aged 3-8 will love watching this hapless hero in this totally word-free clown and magic show on 1st September. From 2pm at the Market Theatre. Tickets cost £8.50 or £7.50 concession.

Yerma The incredible Billie Piper returns in her Evening Standard Best Actress award-winning role on 31st August. A young woman is driven to the unthinkable by her desperate desire to have a child in Simon Stone’s radical production of Lorca’s achingly powerful masterpiece. Set in contemporary London, Piper’s portrayal of a woman in her thirties desperate to conceive builds with elemental force to a staggering, shocking, climax. 7pm at The Market Theatre. Tickets cost £13.50, £11.50 concs. www.wyeside. co.uk

22nd-23rd July, Bryngwyn Summer Fayre, Bryngwyn Hall, Llanfyllin Exhibitors will be selling the best of regional food and drink, unusual plants and trees, beautiful ceramics, and high quality crafts. Tours of the garden and gardening talks will be going on throughout the event. Entry includes access to the only Poison Garden in Wales.

Entry: £4 adults, under 12’s free.

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29th July, Gwenddwr Show A day of fun and entertainment for all the family at this village show on the outskirts of Builth Wells.

Competitions galore: crafts, flowers, fancy dress, cookery, sheep and the ever-popular pet show, dog show and pony show all within the spectacular backdrop of the Gwenddwr Hills.

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30th July, 5th-6th August, Welsh Lavender – Open Garden for NGS Pop down to Welsh Lavender for its 2017 open garden. Situated in the hills of mid Wales, walk the beautiful gardens around the farm and enjoy the swimming pond and idyllic setting then enjoy one of their scrumptious homemade teas.

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30th July, Hay Horse Show, Y Gelli Gandryll This show dates back to the late 1800s with some surviving cups dated around 1924.

Visitors can see plenty of horses, in fun classes including fancy dress, dressage, and show jumping.

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MID WALES WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

Performances aplenty at Powis Castle

6TH AUGUST – 21ST AUGUST

The Wind In The Willows Join Badger, Ratty, Mole and Toad on Sunday 23rd July for a summer adventure at Powis Castle as Chapterhouse Theatre Company presents a musical and fun-filled adaptation of Kenneth •6th August, Tyn y Cwm – Open Garden for NGS, Llanwrtyd Wells Grahame’s classic novel. What starts as a search Pay a visit to this stunning garden for the best picnic spot rapidly turns into the most which was established 15 years hilarious of escapades. With the bumptious ago. Walk the lower garden and see the pretty Toad’s heart set on a shiny new motorcar spring/woodland DID YOU and his very liberty soon at stake, will his area, or explore the KNOW? faithful friends come to his rescue – and raised beds mixed with vegetables, Wind in the will he let them? Perfomance from 7fruit trees, fruit Willows was inspired 9pm. Tickets cost £14 for adults, £10 and flowers. It’s got something by bedtime stories for children with a variety of family for everyone. tickets starting at £38.50. Bring your Grahame told Homemade teas will own rugs or low-backed seating. be on sale too. his son

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14th August, Wild Play, Llyn Coed y Dinas Nature Reserve Welshpool Families will love this fun day set on the beautiful Llyn Coed y Dinas nature reserve.

Enjoy arts and crafts, activities and games for all ages. From 11am1pm. £2 per child (£1 members).

Llandrindod Wells Art Club Exhibition An exciting exhibition from a group of talented artists based in Llandrindod Wells.

The club has been established for over 60 years and has its exhibition in the Garden Room at the Metropole Hotel Llandrindod Wells. Original paintings using Mixed Media ,Oil, Acrylic, Pencil and Watercolour will be on display for free viewing.

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19th-21st August, Glass Butter Beach, Abersoch The world’s largest wakeboard, music and surf festival. Artists across five stages, activities including world class wakeboarding, surfing and have a go at stand up paddle boarding, paint fights, surf sessions and bungee jumps.

Phoenix Alternative Festival 2017

www.hansemeister.com

•19th August-28th August,

Mid Wales Opera Special Gala Event Join Mid Wales Opera for a summer evening filled with musical surprises on Saturday August 12th in the magnificent gardens of Powis Castle Gardens near Welshpool, Powys.

Experience the spectacular gardens in an exclusive night-time opening of the castle grounds – bring a picnic and enjoy a glass a bubbly with Mid Wales Opera – along with a few unexpected musical diversions, including performances by Rhodri Prys Jones and Lucy Mellors, who sang Jupiter and Semele in Cardiff performances of Mid Wales Opera’s recent tour of Handel’s Semele.

From 7pm to 9pm.

Tickets cost £12.50 advance, £15 on the gate. Call 0344 249 1895 to book. www.national trust.org.uk

This super-friendly, alternative boutique festival in beautiful surroundings of the Welsh borders has an eclectic mix of performers from around the globe. The event is held from 10th-13th August at the Llanfyllin Victorian Workhouse, space is strictly limited to 500 revellers, giving it a truly intimate vibe. With music, crafts, a quirky market, workshops, kids area and costume competition with a difference, it’s a fun event for all the family. This year the money raised from ticket sales will be donated to MIND, the mental health charity as well as the Llanfyllin Workhouse Charities. VIP tickets will also available and music line-up yet to be announced. Glamping options are also available. Check the Facebook page for more information, updates on the line-up and ticket prices.

Newtown Food Festival is back with even more bite!

Newtown Food Festival returns to the Town Hall Grounds in Newtown, Powys on 2nd-3rd September to celebrate its 5th birthday in fab foodie style. As the biggest free food festival in mid Wales, visitors can expect the best fresh regional produce from over 50 Welsh food and drink producers, offering a taste for all ages. The all new 28ft festival theatre kitchen will play host to demos, workshops and tasting events from local chefs and experts, displayed on 40” displays and streamed live to Facebook. Music from the local area is a perfect partner to the food festival; the large stage that plays host to some of the best talent in Mid Wales. A live music event and bar will be on the Saturday evening. Entertainment from the Children’s village will keep the little ones happy all weekend, with a return for the Mad Hatter, inviting everyone to his tea party!

Visit www.newtownfoodfestival.co.uk for more information and updates.

What’s on at Gregynog Hall Sunday Lunch, 16th July Tuck into a hearty Sunday lunch in the decadent surroundings of Gregynog Hall. Enjoy a delicious threecourse menu, using the best local produce. Meals cost £23.95 per person/£11.95 per child (under 12) and booking is essential.

Mid Wales Opera Gala, Sunday 23rd July, 6pm Join the Friends of Mid Wales Opera for their annual summer Gala concert, celebrating and supporting Mid Wales Opera and featuring a selection of young

professional soloists. Bring a picnic to enjoy in the interval and there is also tea and coffee available.

Tickets cost £16 from The Hafren (01686 614555) or on the door. Visit www. midwalesopera.co.uk for more information. Please note, the postcode for Gregynog Hall is SY16 3PL. www.gregynog.org

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Castell a Powis Castle Gardd Powis and Garden Dewch o hyd i drysorau gwych y Castell ac Amgueddfa Clive, wedi ei osod yn uchel ar graig uwchben ein gardd deras fyd-enwog.

Uncover the magnificent treasures of the Castle and Clive Museum, perched high on the rock above our world-famous terraced garden.

Ar agor yn ddyddiol. I weld yr amseroedd agor a digwyddiadau ewch i'n gwefan.

Open daily. For opening times and events please visit our website.

01938 551920 nationaltrust.org.uk/powis-castle-and-garden Pan fyddwch chi’n gwirfoddoli, cyfrannu, ymweld neu’n ymuno â’r Ymddiriedolaeth Genedlaethol fe fydd eich cefnogaeth yn ein helpu ni i ofalu am leoedd arbennig yng Nghymru fel Castell a Gardd Powis i bawb, am byth.

When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your support helps us to look after special places Wales such as Powis Castle and Garden for ever, for everyone.

© Ymddiriedolaeth Genedlaethol 2017. Mae’r Ymddiriedolaeth Genedlaethol yn elusen gofrestredig annibynnol, rhif 205846. Ffotograffiaeth © National Trust Images. © National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust Images.

• Conferences Residential / Day • Weddings • Celebrations • Events • Tours • Bed & Breakfast • Café • Listed Gardens Gregynog, Tregynon, Nr Newtown, Powys, SY16 3PL • 01686 650 224 enquiries@gregynog.org www.gregynog.org

#nationaltrust

MID WALES WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

Talyllyn Railway

17TH AUGUST – 3RD SEPTEMBER

Teddy Bear’s Picnic Children, teddies and families can take any of the first three trains to be at Abergynolwyn Station in time for a funfilled teddy bears picnic on 27th July. With Teddy Tombola, face painting and picnicing!

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17th August, Mike Blakesley and Paul Sawtell, Museum of Sculpture Berriew, Welshpool Following years of international touring and high profile shows, their combined virtuoso skills – Paul Sawtell is highly sought as a musical director, pianist and vibrophonist and Mike Blakesley’s finely tuned trombone abilities – will delight your eyes and ears.

Tickets cost £12 advance or £15 on the door.

Victorian Train Experience Journey in Victorian carriages behind an original Talyllyn locomotive, with a conducted tour, stops for photographs and a museum tour on 20th July.

Talyllyn Railway is probably alone in still being able to run its complete original passenger train dating from the 1860s. Travel in the original coaches behind an original locomotive and stop off along the way for photographs, lunch and forest walks.

In the afternoon there will be a Victorian tea served in the King’s Cafe followed by a guided tour of the Narrow Gauge Railway Museum.

Pasta Night Kings Cafe at Tywyn Wharf station is open on 18th August for a range of delicious pasta dishes all costing £7.95.

DID YOU KNOW? The Victorians invented stamps, photographs and postcards

Race The Train This unique event on Saturday 19th August is a must for all multi-terrain runners. Race the Train takes place alongside, as far as practicable, the route taken by the Talyllyn Railway on its journey to Abergynolwyn and back. Visit www.talyllyn.co.uk for more information.

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26th August, Exploring Nighttime Nature, Elan Valley To celebrate European bat weekend, join Sorcha Lewis for an evening bat and moth discovery walk. Suitable for families. Please bring torches.

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27th August, World Mountain Bike Bog Snorkelling If you think that ordinary bogsnorkelling is just a bit tame, then how about trying your luck at riding a mountain bike along the bottom of a 6ft deep waterfilled trench cut through the local Waen Rhydd bog! The bike used is specially prepared with a lead-filled frame and water filled tyres to ensure grip on the pond bottom. The snorkeller/ cyclist wears a lead weight belt to avoid floating off the bike! Divers are on hand for safety purposes.

It costs £15 to enter (if you dare!)

Star-gaze at Solarsphere 2017

Llandrindod Victorian Festival

From 11th14th August, Solarsphere offers space-cadets the opportunity to come and learn about a variety of topics at its Astrocamp, located at a breathtaking dark site at Penmaenau Farm, Builth Wells. Featuring talks and workshops including solar observing and photography, night sky observing, astro photography, and much more. Live acts including bands like Poisoned Electric Head, Granny’s Attic and Anubis will be performing. Comedy acts, professional astronomers and plenty of other space-related activities, it’s the perfect event for the summer evenings. Camping is free. Tickets: £45, Teen Ticket costs £20, Under 13s free. www.solarsphere.events

Fasten your corset for the fantastic Victorian Festival in Llandrindod Wells from 21st-27th August.

The now famous event which launched in 1981 now attracts up to 35,000 visitors. The town undergoes a dramatic transformation to recreate the Victorian era. All tastes are accommodated; with music from the daily bandstand concerts, Victorian costume parades, children’s workshops and magic shows plus talks and exhibitions for those wishing to learn as they are entertained. All this set in amongst the beautiful countryside surrounding Llandrindod. For more information and a full programme of talks, attractions visit www.victorianfestival.co.uk.

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2nd-3rd September, The International Antiques fair of Wales, Builth Wells This popular event attracts up to a thousand standholders from across the continent. Set in two huge exhibition halls, with half of both halls fitted with stands, a large balcony, eight huge drive-in undercover buildings plus the outside and all across the showground on grass and hardstanding in marquees.

What’s on at Llanerchaeron Ladies of Llanerchaeron exhibition, 5th June-23rd July Have you heard about the fascinating history of the Ladies of Llanerchaeron? Delve into the stories of the wonderful women who lived on the estate.

Visit the cellar to discover what Elizabeth Johnes was hiding; learn about the last children raised in the house by Corbetta Powell; be inspired by Annie Ponsonby’s charitable work. Experience Llanerchaeron through the eyes of the women who lived and worked here.

Wild Bat Walks 11th July and 1st August Experience the excitement of spotting these elusive nocturnal creatures with a bat detector which changes their high pitch calls to a sound we can hear.

Ceredigion Craft Makers, 21st - 25th August The Ceredigion Craft Makers will be on site holding a craft fair. Visitors will be able to purchase locally made items and browse the arts and crafts from the region. To book email aisling.staite@nationaltrust.org.uk or call 01545 573024 for more information.

26 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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CHESHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 4TH JULY – 9TH JULY

• 4th July-29th August, Tai Chi

in the Walled Garden, Hare Hill Join a Tai Chi class in the tranquil setting of the walled garden. This gentle exercise, which is suitable for all ages, also aids relaxation and keeps the mind calm and focused. Opens at 10.30am, with the class at 11am-12pm. Normal admission charges apply.

• 6th and 12th July, Open

Garden for NGS, 5 Cobbs Lane, Crewe An acre garden with island beds, wide cottage style herbaceous borders with bark paths and a large variety of hardy and some unusual perennials.

Enjoy interesting features, shrubs, grasses and trees.

11am-5pm.

Admission £5, children free.

Home made teas available.

• 8th-9th July, TrAction Festival, Crewe Celebrate the heritage of transport, travel and motion. See local acts Soundavan and UliK’s Robot that stars in his own show as well The Drum Show and Junk Yard both created by The Spare Parts Fest.

Fun for all the family in the heart of town.

• 8th-9th July, Open Garden for NGS, Rowley House, Crewe See the formal courtyard garden and informal gardens featuring rare trees, and herbaceous borders, a pond with swamp cypress and woodland walk.

1pm-4.30pm.

Entry: £5.

What’s On at Cholmondeley Castle Summer Walk and Talk, 2nd August Join the Gardens Team on a summer’s afternoon between 1pm-2.30pm for an informal walk and talk through the wonderful gardens and and discover the diversity of Cholmondeley Castle Gardens. Wear suitable outdoor clothing. Normal entry fees apply.

Teddy Bears Picnic, 13th August The ever popular Teddy Bears’ Picnic returns to Cholmondeley Castle Gardens.

There will be lots of fun activities so bring a picnic and of course Teddy and have a wonderful day out. The event is held in support The Wingate Centre, a fantastic charity that brightens the lives of children with disabilities. Prices: £7.00 adults, £4.00 children – under 3s and teddies go free.

Jazz in the Gardens, 28th August Listen to The Robin Joiner Quartet perform a varied repertoire including music by Gershwin, Cole Porter, Mancini and Jobim. The performance will take place outside in the gardens by the Tea Room 12pm-4pm.

Festival of 1000 Classic Cars and North West Classic Motorcycle Show, 3rd September Come to the largest one day classic car event in the North West with a fantastic range of cars and bike to ooh and ahh over!

Expect over 1,000 display vehicles, 50 plus stalls and over 5,000 visitors. Chomondeley Castle gardens and tearoom open as usual at event prices. The event runs from 10am-4pm and tickets cost £9 per adult, £3 per child (7-14yrs) DID YOU and under 7s go free.

Tough Mudder North West, 9th-10th September Have you put your training in and are ready to tackle Tough Mudder? This event is a 10-14 mile obstacle course sprawled out over thousands of acres of rigorous terrain designed by the UK’s very own Special Forces to test the competitors all round stamina and mental grit. Or, you can just spectate! Tough Mudder are supporters of Help For Heroes.

KNOW? Tough Mudder is so extreme that only 78% of entrants finish it!

To find out more visit www. cholmondeleycastle.com

• 8th-9th July, Cheshire Steam

Fair, Daresbury Fun-filled weekend. See Jason Smyth’s Adrenaline Stunt Tour, steam engines, classic cars, motorcycles and commercials. Birds of prey, miniature railway, trade stands, crafts and Wall of Death, fairground, public camping, bar and catering. From 10am - 5pm.

Open Days at Eaton Hall Eaton Hall Gardens will be opening its gates to the public for two fun-filled days on 30th July and 27th August. There are 88 acres of gardens to explore and various attractions including falconry, sheepdogs and other displays taking place on the grass areas and paddocks below Camellia Walk. Charity stalls will be in the courtyards and Chester Wind Band will be performing throughout the day. Indoors there will be the Carriage Museum, Family History Room, Military Museum and Stables. Katie the steam engine will also be running all day too! www.eatonestate.co.uk

What’s On at The Live Rooms Dan Baird and Homemade Sin, 21st July This band has a reputation for being one of the best live acts on the circuit and this year will be touring in the US, Australia, Sweden, Norway, Germany, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Italy and Spain as well as here in the UK along with appearances on several high profile festivals.

Dan Baird was the lead singer and chief songwriter with 80s roots superstars The Georgia Satellites and the composer of Keep Your Hands To Yourself. Their fourth studio album will also be released this year.

Starts at 7pm. Tickets: £10.

Motörheadache, 26th August A top class and authentic three-piece tribute to the late, great Lemmy Kilmister and his band, Motörhead.

They have previously toured the UK extensively, playing over 700 venues as well as gigs in Germany, Holland and Belgium. The set list comprises songs from Motörhead’s Fast Eddie Clarke era, regarded by many Motörheadbangers as the classic era from 1975 to 1982. Starts at 7pm, tickets are £10 in advance or £13 on the door.

The Doors Alive, 8th September UK-based tribute band, The Doors Alive is widely regarded as the closest and most enthralling representation of the legendary 1960s rock gods in the world today. They re-create the sound, look, presence and magic of a real 1960s Doors concert.

Hear classics like Light My Fire, When The Music’s Over, Riders On The Storm.

Starts at 7pm, tickets £15. www.theliverooms.com

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WHAT’S ON CHESHIRE

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 9TH JULY – 29TH JULY

• 9th July,

Specialist Plant Fair, Abbeywood Estate Gardens Six acres divided into separate garden areas, each with its own distinctive character and themed planting.

The Plant Hunters’ Fair has a mix of expert growers, each with their own specialities. Entry £3.

Stellar events at Jodrell Bank Stars and Stones, 19th July Enjoy a rare opportunity to explore The Blackden Trust and Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre on the same day. Discover the science and the stories that link these two great sites and find out more about the visionary people who have cared for and evolved these magical places. Jodrell Bank is home to the Lovell Telescope and ground breaking discoveries in radio astronomy and the Blackden Trust boasts evidence of human activity dating back 10,000 years and is the home of renowned author Alan Garner. Tickets cost £27 per person which will include talks and tours, morning coffee and lunch, 10.30am- 4.30pm.

Bluedot, 7th-9th July This annual festival of music, science, arts, culture and the

exploration of space is set against the backdrop of the iconic Lovell Telescope. Bluedot combines a stellar line-up of music with a

ground-breaking programme of live science experiments and exhibits, family activities, expert talks and immersive artworks.

Listen to the DotTalks series, as well as a programme of technology and culture-based talks. The Star Field provides a science marketplace and

will be peppered with street food vendors, live experiments, performances, and science engagement activities – great fun for families and young children.

• 12th and 22nd July,

Conducted Tour of the Old Medicine House, Blackden Visit this Tudor, timber-framed building. The tour includes a walk round the garden, a display of artefacts illustrating the ten thousand years occupation of the site and a tour of the house.

2pm-4pm.

Lovell Lecture – Pulsars: Lighthouses of the Skies, 6th September In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the discovery of pulsars, the Lovell Lecture will be presented by Professor Joel • 15th July, Chester Globetrotters Meeting, Weisberg at 7.30pm. Weisberg Grosvenor Museum Lecture is a leading figure in the Theatre Two fascinating field of pulsar research. travel talks: ‘Glimpses of DID YOU the Nile – and Echoes There will also be of the Great Explorers’ KNOW? the opportunity with David Redford, It would take over of event-dining and ‘Mongolia, including the Naadam before the lecture. nine months to Festival’ with Pat Cost is £8/£6. reach Mars by Jones. 1.30-4.30pm.

Entrance £3.

Call 01477 571766 spaceship or visit www. jodrellbank.net

Get ready for Gladfest 2017!

Meet high profile authors along with some of the country’s brightest breakthrough talents at Gladfest at Gladstones Library in Hawarden, 1st-3rd September. Celebrating its fifth year, this literary festival brings together award-winning, internationally-renowned and emerging writers. Big names this year include TV historian Diarmaid MacCulloch, below, (All Things Made New: The Reformation), multi awardwinning author Sarah Perry,

below right, (The Essex Serpent), broadcaster Sally Magnusson (Where Memories Go: Why Dementia Changes Everything), journalist and biographer Kathryn Hughes (Victorians Undone), Gladfest friend Francesca Haig (The Forever Ship) and BBC official historian Jean Seaton (Pinkoes and Traitors).

Gladfest also boasts a number of breakthrough authors including Dan Richards (Climbing Days), Natasha Pulley (The Bedlam Stacks), Joanna Cannon (The Trouble with Goats and Sheep) and Tara Guha (Untouchable Things), and

• 22nd-23rd July, Manchester

there’ll be an exclusive rehearsed reading of the new adaptation of Chekhov’s Uncle Vanya from Theatr Clwyd.

This will all take place in the unique surroundings of the beautiful Grade I Listed Reading Rooms where you can enjoy a drink by the fire with some of your favourite authors and have the chance to get these books signed.

Call 01244 532350 or visit www.gladfest.co.uk to find out more information.

Airport Aviation Weekend A superb weekend for aviation and transport enthusiasts with memorabilia and craft fair, airfield and aircraft tours, open top buses and vintage transport, live music and childrens rides. 10am- 5pm.

• 28th-29th July, Welcome to

the Carnival, Dunham Massey Meet the carnival families as they arrive at Dunham, for an evening of acrobatics, music and intrigue to launch the Lost Carnival this summer. This is a National Trust event, gates open 6pm for picnics and the show starts 7pm- 9pm.

Booking essential.

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CHESHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 28TH JULY – 6TH AUGUST

•

28th July, Open Garden for NGS, The Homestead, Knutsford This gem of a garden has been created over the last two and a half years. Visit shaded nooks, enjoy the exuberant colours of the hot area plus the greenhouse and a small pond. 6-9.30pm. £5, children free, includes a glass of wine, or tea or coffee.

• 30th July, Cheshire Charity

Motor Show and Vintage Fair, Frodsham Community Centre This charity motor show includes new attractions and a vintage fair. Adults £4 and under 16s free.

Special days at Chester Zoo World Snake Day, 16th July Join the Zoo Ranger team in the Realm of the Red Ape between 10am and 11.30am to celebrate all things snake and lizard! There will be a selection of snake activities and artefacts and the opportunity to ask any snake questions you might have.

This is a free drop-in session, normal zoo admission applies.

Interesting Invertebrates, 12th August Do you feel like you want to start nature watching but don’t know where to start? Well these sessions are perfect for you!

This is an Introduction To Wildlife Monitoring Workshop on Interesting Invertebrates, so come along for a stroll around the Nature Reserve and discover what wildlife is living down there. This is a chance to help out with the zoo’s ongoing native species monitoring as they undertake some surveys to see what’s around and finding out the best ways to record and help the wildlife we see. The workshop runs from 8am-10am and costs £10 per person which includes a bacon sandwich, or vegetarian option, plus a hot drink in the Bembe Coffee Shop.

DID YOU KNOW? The largest elephant on record weighed 24,000lbs and was 13ft tall!

• 30th July, Cheshire Dog

Show and Summer Fair, Wyevale World of Pets Helping to raise vital funds for Dogs4Rescue, attractions include stalls, crafts, BBQ, a vintage tea room, face painting, a dog agility display

by Every Dog Agility with an opportunity to have a go and of course the dog show! Classes: £2 per entry. Adult entry £5,

World Elephant Day, 12th August Celebrate these amazing animals and their future conservation! Look out for our Zoo Ranger team on the boardwalk next to the elephant habitat between 10am-11.30am when you can learn all about the elephants. This is a free drop-in session however normal zoo admission applies.

under 17s £3, under 5s free, family tickets (2 adults + 3 children) £15.

International Orangutan Day, 19th August The Zoo Ranger team will be delving into the world of Orangutans at the Manado Town Permit Office in Islands between 11.30am-3pm for visitors to come along and discover the interesting lives of these beautiful animals.

Normal zoo admission applies.

•

For more information visit www.chesterzoo.org.

1st August, Pride and Prejudice, Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Enjoy a picnic under the summer sky and take a step back in time.

Jane Austen’s most loveable heroine is brought to life by Chapterhouse Theatre Co. 7.30pm10pm. Tickets £15, conc. £13.

•

4th-6th August, The Decorative Home and Salvage Show, Knutsford The theme is true reclamation and recycling.

Browse architectural salvage, reclaimed materials, garden statuary, modern decorative antiques and furnishings. 12pm-5pm.

Fireworks light up the sky in Arley Three of the UK’s best firework companies compete against each other in the Fireworks Championships at Arley Hall on 20th August. The battle will entail a 10-minute firework display choreographed to music followed by a finale display.

The types of fireworks being used are quite different to the material available to the general public, each company uses category four fireworks – those that are for professional use only and the biggest available in the UK. The event is the only one of its type in the country where the audience has the capability to vote for the team they liked the most using their mobile phone. Texts will be charged at normal rates and a limit of one vote per number is in place. There will be pre-show entertainment and food and drink on site along with disabled access and parking Prebooked tickets: £18 adults, £8 chidren.

Gates open at 5pm. www.fireworkchampions.co.uk

30 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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WHAT’S ON CHESHIRE What’s On at Crewe Lyceum Theatre

Events at Tatton Park Foodies Festival, 14th-16 July Indulge in the UK’s biggest food festival with live cooking demonstrations from Michelinstarred chefs along with wine, champagne and cocktail classes, a producer’s market, street food and a BBQ arena. There will also be a Cake and Bake theatre, eating competitions, live music, pop-up bars, tasting and shopping . Tickets available at www.foodiesfestival.com The RHS Flower Show, 19th – 23rd July Set in the height of summer, this year’s show is packed with new features including Evolutionthemed gardens, stunning sculptural displays in the Art in

the Garden area, Vertical Gardens, and Young Plantsperson and Young Landscaper of the Year Gardens. Show favourites like the ever-popular Back to Back Gardens, Water Gardens and gardening and cookery demos also make a welcome return. Plus, with artisan food, a flowery ferris wheel and acres of shopping stalls there really is something for everyone.

jumble, concours d’elegance with massive car club displays and a huge VWs for sale area.

This will be a great family day out with children’s rides and entertainment throughout the day. 9am-5pm, adults £7.50, under 16s go free.

The Volkswagon Northwest Car Show, 6th August From Beetles to Golfs and Beach Buggies to Camper Vans, this is the largest gathering of Volkswagens in the North of England. There will be hundreds of specialist trade stands, auto-

Junior Longbow, 30th August Try your hand at archery from 10.30am-12.30pm at the Old Bringing On Back The 60s, Hall. Learn the art of longbow, 25th August Bringing On Back The 60s try on armour and experience starring The New Amen the life of a young medieval Corner with very special archer. Adult accompaniment guests 60s icons Mike during the session is not Pender from The Searchers required but the minimum age and Mike A’Abo from Manfred Man. Come along is eight. Cost is £15 and for a fantastic evening from places must be pre7.30pm with Europe’s DID YOU booked. www. leading 60s revivalists, KNOW? tattonpark.org. as they perform two uk for more.

In the Middle hours of top hits from

Ages, knights started training at 14 years old

What’s On at The Forum Studio Theatre Broadway Baby, 9th July Pupils from Theatretrain’s Wrexham school present a compilation of songs, dances and scenes from popular West End and Broadway musicals. During the 2pm performance we will be joined by pupils from the Acton Park Primary School after school club. Tickets £8.

Gimme ABBA, the On and On and On Tour, 2nd September Gimme ABBA has been

performing this fabulous tribute for over 17 years and the show promises to be a jam-packed spectacular of all the popular songs known and loved by millions along with many costume changes and choreographed dance routines for a full on ABBA party! The band has enjoyed shows and festivals worldwide with performances in France, Holland, Germany, Cyprus, Malta, Spain, Brazil, Portugal

The Gruffalo, 11th–13th July Songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged three and up and their grown-ups, in the much-loved show that’s toured Britain and the world! Mouse heads off on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book

by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Various performance times. Tickets are £14.50 and £10.50 for schools or groups of 10+.

and nationwide in the UK. So dust off those platforms, put on those flares and come on our nostalgic trip back to the 70s!

Tickets are £17.50 and £15.

the most prolific decade in musical history! Tickets cost £22.00.

All Star Comedy, 9th September Enjoy a fantastic night of comedy in the Lyceum Circle Suite with some of the UK’s top acts including Steve Royle, Steve Shanyaski and Tony Vino as MC. The show begins at 7.30pm with doors at 7pm.

Tickets are £15.

For more information on performance times and to book visit www.crewelyceum.co.uk.

Say cheese at Nantwich Show!

Join celebrity chefs James Martin, Will Holland and Sean Wilson at The Nantwich Show and International Cheese Awards on 26th July. This is the largest cheese show in the world, showcasing over 4,500 entries of every type of cheese, with something to suit everyone’s taste

and the celebrity chefs will be undertaking live cookery demos throughout the day. Browse over 450 trade stands in the Shopping and Craft Marquee and Food Hall. See displays of cattle, horses, sheep, poultry, pigeons and dogs and the Countryside Pursuits Area. Vintage cars,

tractors, commercials and machinery will offer a nostalgic look back at motoring and in the main ring the Bolddog Lings will perform motorcycle stunts. Plus there’s plenty of entertainment for children including a fun fair and donkey rides. www.nantwichshow.co.uk

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CHESHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

Carfest 2017!

5TH AUGUST – 11TH AUGUST

• 5th August,

Macclesfield Area Great War Passchendaele Exhibition Commemorating the battle of Passchendaele (WWI, JulyNovember 1917), featuring the men of Macclesfield and other East Cheshire villages. If you have any information, documents, photos or other artefacts relating to a local person involved in the Great War, bring it along to share.

From 10am-5pm. Free entry.

• 5th-6th August, Open

Garden for NGS, Clover Bank Organic Farm, Congleton This garden complements a stunning modern house above large pond with bridge, raised vegetable beds, wetland planting, woodland and Remembrance Garden. 11am4pm. Entry £5, children free.

• 6th August, Open Garden for NGS, Arley Hall and Gardens One of Britain’s finest gardens has been lovingly created by the same family over 550 years.

A garden of great atmosphere, interest and vitality. 11am-5pm.

Entry £8, children £3.50.

• 6th August, Guided Walk

around Alderley Edge Learn more about strange bumps, humps and hollows along with ancient copper mines and the legends that go with them which inspired the novel Weirdstone of Brisi. Gates open at 8am. Walk 2pm-4pm.

• 8th-11th August, Brereton

Engines will be revving at Bolesworth Estate for this year’s Carfest on 28th-30th July! The theme is ‘Car-Nations’ and the collection of the fastest, funkiest and futuristic cars from each nation will not disappoint.

Highlights include Aston Martin’s Vulcan representing Britain, from Japan a 2004 Formula 1 BAR Honda and a 1931 US Stock Car. Raise money for Children in Need by booking a ride with the legendary Sporting Bears in some of the most exclusive cars. Choose your favourite ride from the Ferrari California 30, the Lola T70 Spyder or the Jaguar X J220. Last year they raised a whopping £120,000! There will also be the Vintage Village featuring car clubs, market traders, a beauty salon for a vintage up-do, plus afternoon teas and the opportunity to learn to swing dance.

If all that wasn’t enough, there will be live music playing throughout including Busted, Deacon Blue, Happy Mondays, Cast, Manic Street Preachers and The Vamps, plus The World’s Biggest Custard Pie Fight! www.carfest.org

Events at Congleton Museum Lambersloone, Routeway to the Past, 6th August Follow in our ancestors footsteps along the ancient footpaths to the south of the town and discover how growing industrialisation encouraged new methods of communication. The walks takes place 2pm-4pm and sets off from the museum behind the Town Hall.

Costs £3-£5.

Portable Antiquities Scheme Finds Day, 1st September Bring along any objects which you wish to have identified and registered with finds.org.uk, including metal finds, flint and pottery which are more than 300 years old. Also bring along the grid reference or find spot of the object so that a record can be made. Guidance on how to get

Bear Festival A fun bearthemed fundraising scarecrow trail throughout the parish of Brereton-cum-Smethwick. See if you can spot them all. Find the most bears to win a prize!

grid references using both maps and computer mapping softwear or GPS can be provided.

What’s On at Blakemere Village

History on your Doorstep, 3rd September What’s in a name? What can the present tell us about the past? During Blakemere Country Fair, this walk explore 22nd-23rd July the techniques Enjoy a family day out at Blakemere from 10amwhich can be 5pm with a celebration used when of everything the visiting an countryside has to offer. unfamiliar Local businesses will be place to find showcasing their product and services. With demos out about its and shows taking place in history. Join this the arena throughout the exploratory walk from 2pm-4pm day along with a small fun from the museum. Costs £5 or fair, donkey rides, fun dog £3 for Friends of Congleton show, the dog and duck show, pig racing, trade stalls Museum. Includes a cream tea. and more. Entry £3 adult, For more info call £1 children, under 3s free.

01260276360 DID YOU or visit www.

Car Boot Sales 30th July KNOW? congleton and 27th August From 7am-2pm. No Lovejoy, Open all museum. co.uk.

Hours and American plants, food or new

Grafitti all featured Morris Minors

goods allowed. £5 for cars, £10 for vans, trailers or cars wishing to park sideways. There are fantastic facilities available.

Area 1 Northern Regional Rally, 12th - 13th August Join the South Cheshire Moggies, a new branch of the Morris Minor Owners Club. Enjoy watching the Morris Minor rally from the sidelines and find out what it’s all about! www.blakemerevillage.com

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Eaton Hall Gardens Charity Open Day Sunday 30 July 2017

1 - 3 SEPTEMBER THE BEST CONTEMPORARY WRITERS BOOK SIGNINGS BIGGEST-EVER MARKET PLACE

Charity open day attractions • • • •

88 acres of gardens Scented rose garden Chester Wind Band Charity stalls

• • • •

FREE CRAFTS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Sheepdog displays Falconry displays Carriage Museum Eaton Chapel

TAST Y LOCAL FOOD AND MUCH MORE!

Gates open 10.30am to 5pm Parking from 10am / Last entry 4.30pm £8 Adults /£2 Children /£18 Family

Family – two adults & two children, additional children £1. Cash only.

All proceeds to: – The Lions Club of Chester – Chester Aid to the Homeless – Mothers Union Chester Diocese – West Cheshire Foodbank

Eaton Park, Eccleston, Chester CH4 9ET Tel 01244 684400 Entrance via Eccleston /Aldford/ Belgrave Gates (Coaches Belgrave Gate only) Dogs welcome but must be kept on a lead

For full details see www.eatonestate.co.uk

01244 532350

01244 532350

www.gladfest.co.uk

www.gladfest.co.uk

enquiries@gladlib.org

enquiries@gladlib.org

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11 May – 27 August

03/04/2017 10:55:02

Performed on the new Storyhouse Stage and at the award-winning Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre.

Indoors or out – the choice is yours...

BOOK NOW storyhouse.com @storyhouselive

*Excludes The Beggar’s Opera and Alice’s Half-Term Wonderland

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CHESHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

Cheshire Game and Country Fair

12TH AUGUST – 10TH SEPTEMBER

The 13th English chainsaw carving competition will be the main attraction at this year’s Cheshire Game and Country Fair with top class carvers from all over the world coming to make their mark. The fair takes place across the bank holiday weekend on 26th-28th August, from 10am-6pm. Some of the beautiful carvings will be up to 20 feet high and become a sought after work of art with all carvings going for auction afterwards. The Andy Singleton arena will host the UK horse boarding championships, an extreme equestrian discipline against the clock. See the thrills of the scurry trials driving championship, try country sports and pursuits, browse the craft village, food DID YOU show, steam and vintage KNOW? fair, the world of dogs, The Beggars’ children’s amusements, Opera was the food courts and real ale first musical play bars. www.livingheritage performed in countryshows.co.uk

• 12th-13th August, Dogs in

the Garden, Lyme A lovely opportunity for visitors to take their canine companions for a stroll on their leads through the fragrant and beautiful gardens.

Well behaved dogs welcome one weekend every month but must be kept on a lead and under control. 11am-5pm.

• 28th August, Budworth

Sailing Club Open Day Visit the club and find out more about sailing. Take a dinghy on the water with one of our experienced helms. Free event, 10.30am-4pm.

• 1st September, Classic Ibiza,

Bolesworth Castle The Urban Soul Orchestra, conducted by Stephen Hussey, perform classic Ibiza anthems under the stars, with DJ Goldierocks and vocalists Max Barnes-Davy, Jina Burrows and Roo Savill.

over the

• 2nd September, Great British

Prom, Bolesworth Castle The National Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Anthony Inglis, make their debut at Bolesworth to celebrate British music from across the home nations.

Features Welsh male voice choir Only Men Aloud, Soprano Philippa Healey and a traditional Scottish pipe band for a musical tour through the home nations.

Gates open 5pm for 7.30pm start.

• 9th-10th September, Autumn

Boat Share Show, Nantwich Around 2,500 families already enjoy their boating holidays each year on their own shared boat at less than the cost of hiring. Come along 10am-5pm Saturday and 10am4pm Sunday to find out more.

New York

What’s On at Storyhouse and Grosvenor Park Theatre The Beggar’s Opera: A Pox-Ridden Musical Comedy, until 19 August A filthy, hilarious version of the first ever popular musical; the story of Mack the Knife. Specially written for the opening of the venue, the ultimate riotous immorality tale is directed by Storyhouse’s artistic director, founder of the hugely popular Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre. Adults only.

Julius Caesar, until 30th July (and at Grosvenor Park theatre from 3rd August – 27th August) In an age of political uncertainty, Shakespeare’s immortal and gripping thriller is given new relevance and a contemporary twist. Loyalty collides with ambition in the ultimate tale of popular leadership, rise to power, and winning over the people.

Alice in Wonderland at Grosvenor Park Theatre from 15th July-20th August With a host of colourful characters we know and love (and a few new ones to meet!) leading the adventure around a surreal world, it’s the perfect opportunity to fall down the rabbit-hole xthis summer. Curiouser and curiouser…

A Midsummer Night’s Dream, at Grosvenor Park Theatre from 21st July-27th August) Shakespeare’s tale of a midsummer night, when four young lovers flee Athens and lose themselves in woodland wilderness, falling under the spell of the outrageous and unpredictable fairy king and queen in a magical world.

Moonlight Flicks: La La Land, 4th-28th July Relax in the great outdoors in the Roman Gardens and enjoy this multi-award winning movie. Films start at dusk, and can be up to 20 minutes after the advertised start time.

Moonlight Flicks: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, 3rd-22nd August Settle down for an evening of enchantment with Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne), a young wizard arriving in New York from England with a strange cargo. www.storyhouse.com for more.

34 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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WIRRAL WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 8TH JULY – 29TH JULY

• 8th-9th July, Summer Strum

Ukulele Festival, Hoylake Rugby Club A free family weekend of music, stalls, workshops, food and drink all focused around the happy little ukulele. All raffle proceeds and profits donated to Wirral Hospice St Johns and MIND. 12pm-10pm.

• 9th July, It’s a Knockout and

Family Fun Day, Birkenhead Park Wirral Hospice St John’s along with Graham Fishers International It’s a Knockout are bringing the hit 70s TV show to Birkenhead Park! Participants will stumble their way through giant colourful inflatables, games and challenges designed for maximum fun.

• 22nd

July, Lydiate Scouts Car Boot Sale, Lydiate Parish Hall Field All proceeds from this long established outdoor car boot sale go towards Scouting for young people and is run by 1st Lydiate Scout Group. Bring your own table. 6am-12pm. Sellers: £7 per car, £10 large van, buyers 40p per person, under 18s free.

What’s On at the Floral Pavilion WAPA Performance 2017, 22nd-23rd July, 7.30pm This year marks the 21st anniversary of Wirral Academy of Performing Arts (WAPA) so to celebrate, young performers from across the Wirral will come together to put on a wonderful evening of song, drama and dance. The event will showcase performances from the world of musical theatre and show-stopping tracks from top international artists. This promises to be a fantastic evening of entertainment performed by some of Wirral’s brightest stars of the future. Tickets are £14.

recounts his early struggles on the road to becoming a professional footballer. Ball of Fire, presented by The Blue Park Theatre Company, will chart the great man’s life as a wily boy with ambitions of playing on the world stage.

His family have endorsed this play to give Alan’s fans the world over a chance to know the real man within the legend. John O’Connell will give a pre-show classical guitar performance 7pm7.45pm. Tickets £18.00.

Dick and Dom Live, 19th August, 2pm and 5pm Popular children’s TV stars, Dick and Dom perform their hilarious madcap challenges and audience participation games. Tickets: £13.50, £11.50 under 16s or £46 for a family of four.

Music and Memories, 26th July, 2pm Neil Sands and his wonderful West End cast are back with a brand new production for 2017.

There can be no doubt that music brings back so many wonderful memories and this feel good afternoon Jimmy Carr: The Best Of, Ultimate, Gold, will be filled with over 60 all-time favourite songs Greatest Hits Tour, 30th August, 8pm from the 1940s through to the 1970s. From old Jimmy is gathering a selection of his very best time sing along to rock ‘n’ roll, and from forties jokes along with brand new material for the favourites to the pop hits of the 60s, and of course, ultimate comedy show. Everything we love a flag waving tribute to the veterans of our to laugh at and be Armed Forces, this show will have you DID YOU shocked by, in one singing along and reminiscing. Tickets KNOW? incredible night are £11.50.

The Kadupul of entertainment. flower from Sri Not suitable for Ball of Fire, 5th-6th August, 8pm Lanka is the most under 16s. All Experience the life and times of the priceless in the tickets £29. www. great Alan Ball, beautifully played world! floral pavilion.com out through a dramatisation that

28th July, Around the World in Eighty Days, Birkenhead Priory Off The Ground Theatre Company performs this classic tale full of trains, boats, steamer ships plus elephants, Indian princesses and a suspicious detective. 7.30pm, tickets £12.50, conc. £8 and £5 for under 21s.

• 29th July, Bromborough

Record Fair, Civic Cente CDs, DVDs vinyl and merchandise with music covering all genres.

Plant Fair at Ness Botanic Gardens

Celebrate Wirral

The wonderful Plant Hunters Fairs will once again visit Ness Botanic Gardens on 3rd September for their Autumn Plant Fair showcasing highly respected nurseries. If your garden is looking a little tired after summer then this is a great opportunity to find some late blooming plants to cheer it up. Autumn is also the perfect time to plant ready for next year’s bloom as the soil is still warm and plants have plenty of time to establish and make themselves at home before winter. Get top planting tips from the team at the nursery too. Entry £1, 10am4pm. Visit www.plant huntersfairs. co.uk

One Wirral celebrates everything Wirral is a fun-filled summer event which takes place on 19th August in Birkenhead Park from 11am-4pm. The festival boasts seven themed zones: Music Zone – a stage area hosted by Wirral Radio with a range of acts performing throughout the day; Active Zone with sports, dance and drama workshops; Community Zone with fete-style stalls from local community groups, voluntary organisations and charities; Craft Zone with market-style stalls from local crafters and artisan food sellers plus crafty workshops; Nostalgia Zone hosted by Age UK Wirral; Nature Zone with animals, plants and outdoor activities, and Chilled Zone with picnic space with acoustic vibes. Visit www.onewirral.weebly.com.

36 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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WHAT’S ON WIRRAL

Claremont Farm is sweet like chocolate Indulge in a two-hour Chocolate Workshop at Claremont Farm, Birkenhead, on 20th August, and learn the tricks of the chocolatey trade.

The workshop begins with a talk about how chocolate makes it from the bean to the bar, followed by a practical session where you will watch demos on various techniques before having the chance to create your own two delicious chocolate masterpieces.

There will then be a chocolate quiz before you hand-wrap your creations to take home. Cost is £35 to include a hot chocolate drink. For more information and to book visit www. claremontfarm.co.uk

The Carnival is Coming!

A human table football competition, samba drumming band and a Wimbledon afternoon tea will be just some of the highlights of this year’s Parkgate Carnival on 9th July at Neston Cricket Club. There will be kids’ amusements, music festival, craft and food fair and cake competition, promising a family fun day with something for everyone.

The Batala Mersey Samba Drumming Band will open the event with a huge bang at 12pm with gates opening at 11.30am and final band in the music festival will finish around 7pm. £1 per adult, kids go free. Call 0151 336 2515.

DID YOU KNOW? The Jolly Roger flag was made famous by English pirates in the 1720s

Port Sunlight summer events Soapy Spaceships, 2nd August, Old Schoolroom at the Lyceum Fire the imagination by creating rockets, spaceships and UFOs from old bottles and packaging – recycle and have fun at the same time! As a tribute to the Sunlight Soap that was made in the village by Unilever, bring along your empty Unilever packaging, or any other bottles and materials you have, to reduce waste and bring out your creative side at the same time. All other materials provided to convert it into an interstellar craft! Drop in any time between 10.30am-3pm and allow around an hour for the activities. Price £1.50 per child. Children to be accompanied by an adult.

Fun Dog Show, 6th August Choose from 10 fun classes to enter with your four-legged friend including Cutest Puppy, Best Veteran and Happiest Rescue.

Now in its 12th year, the annual Fun Dog Show will be fun for all the family and your dogs, from 11am-4pm. There

will also be a variety of pet-based businesses and charities, display dogs, pet-related help and advice, and children’s activities. The competition is £1 per class to enter.

Twelfth Night, 9th August, The Dell Folksy Theatre is welcomed back to The Dell for more outdoor Shakespeare with Twelfth Night. Bring along picnics, blankets and folding chairs to enjoy this wonderful open-air performance with Folksy’s touch of live music, bold characters and audience interaction. Show starts at 7pm. Tickets available on the gate or prebook for discounts via the website.

Pirates of Port Sunlight, 16th August, Old Schoolroom at the Lyceum Ahoy, me hearties! Step aboard the good ship Lyceum and set sail for adventure with fun activities to separate the buccaneers from the scurvy dogs! Enjoy pirate crafts and make a captain’s hat, eye-patch and a parrot with flapping wings! Then try out a swashbuckling sword drill, walk the plank, and go on a treasure hunt around the Dell, with a gold bar if you find all the clues. From 10.30am3pm. £1.50 per child. www.portsunlightvillage.com

West Kirby Arts Centre hosts an evening with Bristol Storyteller of the Year Join Trevor Carter, The Bard of Windmill Hill Storyteller of the Year, for an evening of pure literary entertainment at West Kirby Arts Centre. Trevor Carter will turn the absurd, bewildering and frequently frustrating aspects of modern life into laughter fodder for you! With witty, ironic and waspish social comment, this is cerebral stand-up at its best. The event takes place on 20th July, 7pm-10pm and costs £6.

For more information visit www.westkirbyartscentre.org.uk July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 37

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WIRRAL WHAT’S ON

Horses for River Courses

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 30TH JULY – 10TH SEPTEMBER

• 30th July,

Egremont Festival With fun fair, donkey rides, international food court, live stage performances plus local food, amazing arts and crafts, displays and demos. From 11am-5pm. Free.

Thrills and spills at the Motor Club Rally • 12th-13th August, Wirral in

Bloom Festival, Birkenhead Park This is a great family festival showcasing fruit, veg and flowers, craft stalls, farm animals, fun rides and live music from 10am-5pm

• 13th August, North Cheshire

Classic Car Club Annual Show, Claremont Farm A free event for all the family with over 200 classic cars on display from the 1920s to today’s modern classics Open 10.30am-3.30pm.

Top drivers from all over the Friday, 2pm-6pm, will be the UK will descend upon New noise check and scrutineering Brighton on 1st-2nd September then from 7.30pm-10pm 95 for the Wallasey Motor Club cars will tackle the two floodlit Promenade Stages Rally. This stages. On Saturday the cars will is the only closed road stage do battle once more 8amrally in the country 6pm with the Winners DID YOU with premier drivers Champagne Spraying KNOW? coming to tackle at approximately The Hennessey this unique 6.30pm with the Venom F5 is event with its top three finishers challenging twists world’s fastest car followed by an and turns. This awards presentation at close to 300 event, which takes shortly after. There mph! place on Kings Parade, will be excellent viewing offers spectators excellent from all the spectator areas, viewing of the entire stage and running commentary, Rally allows them to get close to Village and catering on site. the cars and chat to the crews Car parking charges are £10. in the open service area. On www.wallaseymc.com

What’s On at the Williamson Art Gallery in the country. The programme of events will include Poetry Proms, storytelling, Art on the Prom, live music including a jazz parade, and film showings.

• 13th August, River Park

Birthday Celebration Day, Port Sunlight River Park Celebrate the third birthday of the River Park with owls, bees and other wildlife related stalls from 12pm-4pm. Raffle, refreshments, children’s activities, and a trail around the park.

•

28th August, RNLI Open Day, Hoylake Stalls, catering, children’s fairground, kite displays and refreshments. 10am-6pm.

•10th Sept, Wirral Half Marathon and 10K Run, A fab run that starts at Birkenhead Park via Seacombe Ferry and finishes on Coastal Drive.

Visit the National Waterways Museum in Ellesmere Port for a special day celebrating Horses at Work on 13th August, 1pm-5pm. Now in its eighth year, the event has become one of the most popular attractions in the museum’s annual calendar of events.

Help The Canal and River Trust celebrate the early days of canals and watch working horses give unique demonstrations of horsedrawn canal boating and see the horses being shod.

Jump aboard a wagonette for a ride round the historic canal docks. Performances

by Kate Vigurs, pony rides for children to enjoy, displays of historic boats, indoor exhibitions and boat trips. Visit www. canalrivertrust.org.uk.

Wirral Festival of Firsts explores ageing in a new exhibition at the Williamson called pARTicipate which is running Wednesday to Sunday until 22nd July, 10am-5pm.

The festival explores how creating art can help to improve the lives of those living with challenges and opportunities of aging. Wirral Festival of Firsts was established in Hoylake in 2011 to deliver an innovative, community based arts festival to encourage a showcase of local talent as well as the opportunity for the community to access and enjoy some examples of the best art, music and poetry

The Dinner Party This celebrates the work of five Liverpool painters as instigators of a distinctive art practice from the early 1960s to the late 1970s.

The exhibition runs Wednesday to Sunday until 3rd September.

The event focuses on the achievements and relationships of five friends depicted in Sam Walsh’s 1980 painting The Dinner Party: Walsh himself, along with Don McKinlay,

Arthur Ballard, Adrian Henri and Maurice Cockrill and explores the identity and development of the city’s bohemian ‘Liverpool 8’, a community of which the artists were a part.

A Room of One’s Own This is an eclectic showcase of the range and diversity of the Williamson’s art collection which has been running since November 2015 but will draw to a close this July. It features a mixture of works built up from donations across the decades.

For more information visit www.williamsonartgallery.org

38 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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SHROPSHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 9th July – 16th July • 9th July, Lions Day on Wheels, Bowring Park, Wellington A family fun day with a focus on wheeled vehicles varying from brand new cars to pre-war classics, military and emergency services vehicles along with motorbikes and scooters. Plus arena events running all day and a circus skills workshop for children. Free entry 10am to 4pm.

• 15th July, TNS Fun Day Oswestry Cae Glas Park hosts local football team TNS who provide plenty of free family DID activities.

What’s on at Ironbridge Museum 1930s Music Hall Evening, 28th July, 6.30pm Step back in time at the 1930s music hall evening at Blists Hill Victorian Town. Enjoy a delicious feast of creamed chicken with spinach and new potatoes followed by sherry trifle in the atmospheric Forest Glen Refreshment Pavilion. After dinner there will be a night of music and entertainment straight from the Thirties. Doors open at 6.30pm and the evening will finish at around 10pm. Tickets cost £25 per person.

Call Nikki Birch on 01785 252247. Booking essential.

YOU Fire, Furnace & Steam, KNOW? 26th July-3rd September The world’s most Come and see the power and expensive bottle of innovation behind the Industrial Revolution with events, whiskey sold for workshops and trails. Activities $628,000

• 15th July, Book & Vinyl Fair, Hermon Chapel Arts Centre, Oswestry From 10am-5pm come and browse a good collection of books and vinyl while the DJs spin some tunes!

• 15th July, Russell Kane: Right Man, Wrong Age, Ludlow Assembly Rooms

vary from day to day and may carry additional charges.

Blists Hill in Steam, 19th-20th August See an array of steam-powered machines in full working splendour such as the replica of Trevithick’s 1802 Coalbrookdale locomotive; Billy, a 1903 Wallis & Steevens road roller, the Merry Weather fire pump and the Fielding oil engine. Spot special guest engines around the town throughout the weekend. Visit www.ironbridge.org.uk.

Are you 16 years old, yet feel 21? Are you 40, but tragically faking 25? Or maybe you’re full-on 80 years, with the heart of three oxen and the sex drive of a bonobo chimp. Don’t worry: this is normal. No one is ever the ‘right’ age – it’s the beauty and the curse of being a real person. In this brand new show, Russell Kane unleashes another blisteringly-funny, awardwinning stand-up performance about growing up and growing down. From 8pm.

• 15th-16th July, Wem Sweet Pea Festival, Thomas Adams School The National Sweet Pea Society joins the Eckford Sweet Pea Society in celebrating its 29th Annual Show from 10am to 5pm and Sunday 16th July from 10am to 4pm. Parking for the show will be in the town centre, with disabled parking at the venue. All amenities on site are undercover, with wheelchair access to all areas. Admission £3 for adults and children are free.

Ludlow Castle Family Entertainment Day The Knights of Battle Heritage are fighting to win the prestigious Heritage Cup at Ludlow Castle on Monday 28th August.

Regardless of the great British Summer, families will love the knight demonstrations, live forge and weaponry talks as well as the living history village. What’s more there will be Kris Katchitt, the medieval Jester who walks on fire, eats fire and lies on a bed of nails! There will also be the Jousting Arena (subject to dry weather only), junior joust, stocks, have-a-go archery, shoot-a-knight archery, face painting, treasure hunts and a delicious hog roast!

Tickets cost £7 for adults and £3.20 for children and a family ticket costs £10. For more detailed information visit www.ludlowcastle.com

What’s on at Kino Culture Oswestry

Whisky Galore! (PG) British Cinema Season, 14th, 15th and 20th July A remake of the beloved black and white original film directed by Alexander Mackendrick for Ealing Studios, which was based on the novel by Sir Compton Mackenzie, which itself was based on the real events of 1941.

When the SS Politician was shipwrecked in the Outer Hebrides a hilarious battle ensued. The wily islanders on nearby Eriskay tried to salvage the huge cargo of whisky on board, enraging the British authorities. To coincide with the Oswestry Food & Drink Festival, this film comes with free whisky tastings on the Friday and Saturday night screenings.

Tickets cost £7.

After The Storm (PG) World Cinema Season, 19th July, 7.30pm The latest film from Japanese auteur Hirokazu Kore-eda (Nobody Knows, Like Father Like Son) is a gentle family drama of a father on the skids attempting to do the best for his son.

As typhoons buffet Tokyo, consummate miniaturist Kore-eda Hirokazu examines a broken family and the father’s dogged attempts to glue it back together. Tickets cost £7 adult, £5 under 16s.

RSC Live: Titus Andronicus (12A), 9th August, 7pm Shakespeare’s gory revenge tragedy set in Rome presents us with murder as entertainment, and, as the body count piles up, poses questions about the nature of sexuality, family, class and ßsociety. Tickets cost £12 for adults, £10 for 16s. Visit www. kinokulture.org. uk for more info.

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WHAT’S ON SHROPSHIRE

What’s on at Oswestry Market Artisan Market, 28th July, 9am-3pm Quality local craft and food producers market along Bailey Street and up at the Bailey Head Shropshire Produce Market, 19th August, 9am-3pm Showcasing a hand-picked crop of the best local food producers in Shropshire.

Artisan and Vintage Market, 25th August, 9am-3pm A collection of quality local craft and food producers along with lively vintage themed stalls, live music, and entertainment on the Bailey Head.

Oswestry Show

Oswestry Show returns to the 37 acre Park Hall Showground on the 5th August. In keeping with its traditional agricultural links, classes are held for cattle, sheep, goats and rare breeds along with popular sheep shearing competitions. There will be spectacular main ring entertainment throughout the day plus a programme of music and children’s entertainment on the Village Green. Visitors can enjoy browsing around the trade stands, food hall and craft marquee and there will be prizes given in cake baking, fruits and vegetables and arts and crafts. www.oswestryshow.co.uk

Church Stretton Arts Festival 2017: music and the visual arts in the heart of the Shropshire Hills

DID YOU KNOW? The Shropshire Hills have 73 Sites of Special Scientific Interest

2017 brings a packed and impressive festival programme of music and the arts from 29th July - 13th August. Turn to page 92 for more details on the workshops and exhibitions programme.

poetic, magical yarn that conjoins the spirit of India with the heart of London.

Martin String Quartet with Graham Walker, Saturday 29th July, Concord College The quartet takes pleasure in seeking out neglected works and in giving first performances of pieces by contemporary composers. Graham Walker is an award-winning cellist and conductor, and has performed as a soloist and chamber musician in many of the world’s most prestigious halls.

Harmoniemusik, Friday 4th August, St Laurence’s Church This acclaimed ensemble of flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, piano and sometimes horn and harpsichord is well-known for its varied and entertaining programmes of 18th, 19th and 20th century chamber music.

4 Girls 4 Harps, Tuesday 1st August, Church Stretton School One of the leading harp ensembles in Europe, Harriet Adie, Keziah Thomas, Eleanor Turner and Elizabeth Scorah are four harpists who have a shared goal of presenting new works and their own idiomatic transcriptions to show off the full scope of four concert harps.

Frith Piano Quartet, Wednesday 2nd August, St Laurence’s Church The group has performed the complete piano quartets of Brahms, Dvo ák, Fauré and Mozart as well as also more unusual pieces from the likes of Frank Bridge, Arthur Bliss and Richard Strauss.

Chopping Chillies, Thursday 3rd August, Church Stretton School A hit at Edinburgh 2016, From Kerala to Camden is an epic, mystical tale of love, loss and soul-food by Clair Whitefield. A delightful,

Planet Abba – Tribute Group, Saturday 5th August, Church Stretton School Since their formation in 2002, Planet Abba have succeeded in establishing themselves as the UK’s leading Abba tribute show.

Kabantu, Monday 7th August, Church Stretton Manchester quintet Kebantu will perform their high-octane live workouts blending roots, jazz and classical music from around the world.

Chapterhouse present Pride and Prejudice, Wednesday 9th August, Church Stretton School Meet Elizabeth Bennet, Jane Austen’s most loveable heroine in this classic play.

Katona Twins, Saturday 12th August, Church Stretton School This critically acclaimed guitar duo, twins Peter and Zoltán Katona, can effortlessly transfer from strictly classical, into more popular musical genres. To find out more about the festival events, go to www.strettonfestival.org.uk July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 41

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SHROPSHIRE WHAT’S ON Summer at Severn Valley Railway Peep Behind the Scenes, 15th July A wonderful opportunity to get a unique insight into what goes on throughout the year at this busy station to keep the railway running. See both the volunteers and paid staff working together including the day-to-day maintenance and skilled restoration work, often covered with panelling and many coats of varnish and paint!

Visitors will be able to see the signalbox, carriage WIN! WIN! works, diesel depot and turntable plus the carriage Turn to page shed, paintshops and wagon works across the stations of Kidderminster, Bewdley North, 129 to enter Bridgnorth and Wolverhampton. our fab ticket

Classic Vehicle competitions!

Day, 30th July See vehicles from yesteryear on display at all the stations along the line. Visitors can get on and off at all six stations to view the iconic vehicles a variety of which will be on display at each station with an emphasis on certain models at each location.

Steam on the Road, 12th-13th August A weekend showcasing the very best of steam on the road, and steam on the rails! From steamrollers, traction engines and steam wagons, to steam trains running on the Railway, take a trip back to the glory years. There will be a traction engine ‘Play Pen’ in the car park at Kidderminster Station, a road run through the town, culminating with a climb up the hill to the station. Brake Van Rides at Kidderminster on Sunday. www.svr.co.uk

Debut for spectacular field gun display at Shrewsbury Steam Rally The County of Salop Steam Engine Society’s 2017 Rally which takes place at Onslow Park, Shrewsbury on Sunday 27th August and Monday 28th August, will be hosting the South Africa Challenge, an event that sees a Command one tonne, 12-pounder field gun and limber (a two-wheeled cart designed to support the trail and the stock of a field carriage) race across the main arena. The Challenge will involve the Portsmouth Action Field Gun teams racing each other to disassemble and re-assemble the Field Gun on the carriage and fire (a blank) at each end of the run.

Visit www.shrewsburysteamrally. co.uk to see the event programme.

It’s all for laughs at Shrewsbury International Comedy Festival Prepare yourself for splitting sides and tickled ribs at the inaugural Shrewsbury International Comedy Festival (SICF) which runs from Friday 21st July until Sunday 23rd July. Audiences will be treated to 15, hour-long performances in four town centre venues over three days.

The Old Market Hall, St Nicholas Bar and Café and The Old Post Office have all been selected to showcase the quirky, festivalfriendly nature of Shrewsbury. The final day sees Greg Davies host the 3-hour SICF Gala Show at Theatre Severn. www.shrewsbury internationalcomedyfestival.co.uk

What’s on at Alderford priced tickets available for people wishing to watch both films. Visit www.skiddle. com to book tickets.

Festival at the Edge Storytelling Weekend, 28th-30th July Come along to this international storytelling festival with live music, workshops and a dedicated children’s programme, and much more. Sit back and listen to some of the finest tale spinners in the UK and enjoy a variety of music peformances from the likes of Chris Lowe, Coven, Anna Shannon and Emily Hennessey. There is Punch and Judy, art and craft events, dance, music, and a chance to learn circus skills. Visit www.festivalattheedge.org.

Classic Film Nights, 4th-5th August Get ready for an atmospheric outdoor cinema experience with the screening of two classic films; Jurassic Park and Jaws at Alderford. Tickets cost £10 for adults and £5 for children and OAPs. Family tickets (2+2) cost £28. There are also dual

Wind in the Willows, 20th August The Immersion Theatre Company bring together eye-catching costumes, toe-tapping music and larger than life characters to entrall and entertain everyone in this wonderful outdoor performance of Wind in the Willows. Tickets cost £8 for adults, £7 for children (concessions and family tickets available too). www.alderford.com

British Ironwork Centre Events Oswestry Transport Rally, Saturday 15th July From Bentleys to Italian Ferraris, classic motorbikes, it’s all on show for transport lovers…

Sheep Dog Trials, 23rd July With up to 80 dogs and handlers competing to show off their skills, visitors will able to see this unique sport close at hand.

Oswestry Ballon Festival, 26th-28th August A charity event for Nightingale House Hospice, come along and see these fantastic beasts take to the air. www.britishironworkcentre.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON SHROPSHIRE John Torode cooks up a feast at this year’s Shrewsbury Flower Show The worlds’ longest running independent flower show, returns on Friday 11th and Saturday 12th August to the Quarry Park in the heart of the town.

This years sees plenty of famous faces heading to the event including BBC1 Masterchef ’s John Torode and TV personalities Joe Swift and Penny Meadmore who will be on hand to share their gardening tips and advice.

Held in the beautiful 29-acre Quarry Park, the show will be awash with wonderful flowers, fabulous food and live entertainment providing locals and visitors alike the ultimate summer day out. Over at the large Quarry Marquee see top national nurseries and growers create stunning displays to admire and inspire.

The Severn Marquee will be full of home grown flowers and vegetables and advice is on hand from many exhibitors and horticultural organisations. Take a walk down to The Dingle to see Floral Art creations. This year, The

AfroCaribFest 2017

Royal Signals Motorcycle Display Team – The White Helmets, will be performing plus there’s showjumping, duck and dog agility and aerial displays from some of the world’s most amazing birds of prey.

There will be plenty of live music from the London Community Gospel Choir and vintage band The Overtones plus a stunning firework display finale to round off the festival. For more information on the programme of attractions and to book tickets visit www.shrewsburyflowershow.org.uk.

Classic Vehicle Rally at Attingham Park

The first annual AfroCaribFest The Classic Vehicle Rally will takes place at The Oakengates return to Attingham Park Theatre in Telford on 28th July. in Shrewsbury on Sunday 13th The event brings live musical August. Car enthusiasts will be performances from the treated to a wide display XFactor and BGT acts of classic vehicles from such as Reggie n DID YOU across the decades and Bollie, Dez Mensa KNOW? enjoy a drive through the scenic Shropshire countryside and Mythical before arriving at Attingham Park to display their Attingham Park PSM, and exciting own classic cars. Entry costs £15 per four-wheeled has over 200 entertainment from vehicle and £7 per two-wheeled vehicle and covers the other local and fallow deer vehicle and passengers. Capacity is strictly limited to 250 cars and spectators are welcome as there will be stalls and activities to keep the whole family entertained. Entry is via Attingham Park’s main entrance and National Trust entry fees apply. Organised by Severn Hospice, the proceeds will go towards caring for patients and their families from the local community.

Call 01743 354450 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk. regional artists.

The AfroCaribFest merges two rich cultures to help build Gourmet grub and flying machines at the community, bridge social, Cosford Food Festival cultural and economic gaps through sharing music, dance, A tasty line-up of over 80 local producers will be heading to ethnic cuisine, arts and culture, this year’s Cosford Food Festival, which promises to serve up the very best food and drink the Midland’s has to offer from and invites people of all ages and Saturday 22nd to Sunday 23rd July. backgrounds to experience the Held in the spacious grounds at the RAF Museum Cosford, richness of the Telford’s diverse with the VC10 and Hercules aircraft acting as a backdrop to communities. Tickets start from the bustling food market, visitors can enjoy flavours from £25. For a full line-up visit www. around the world including French, Caribbean, Cuban and Mexican food. Sweet lovers can sample traditional dairy ice afrocaribfest.co.uk. creams, waffles, crêpes, milkshakes or smoothies.

Try cooking demos, enjoy the live music, pottery workshops, face painting, circus skills and a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flypast! www.rafmuseum.org.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 16TH JULY – 20TH JULY

• 16th July, Reggae Music Day Free family music from 12pm until 7pm in the award winning Cae Glas Park. With refreshment stalls and trade stands, entertainment and activities.

• 16th July, Sambrook Manor Open Garden for NGS, Newport The garden surrounds the early C18 manor house (not open) and contains a wide selection of herbaceous plants and roses.

Features include a waterfall down to a pond and various acers.

A new development leading to the river along the edge of the garden is filled with a variety of shrubs and trees.

Admission £4, children free.

Homemade teas will be on sale.

• 16th July, British Stone Skimming Championships and Stone Games, Walcot Lake, Lydbury North Enjoy a fun afternoon stone skimming at this annual event. There are four age groups for male and female: over 65, under 65, under 16 and under 12. Take part in Stone the Crows, Balancing Stones, Tabletop Curling, Stepping Stones. Bring a picnic and a brolly and your own, naturally formed British stones. Stones are provided.

• 19th July, Get Rattled, Severn GorgeCountryside Trust, Coalbrookdale A rare chance to walk through the middle of a beautiful wildflower hay meadow with Russell Rowley, manager of Severn Gorge Countryside Trust and to see, touch and have fun with wild flowers. From 2-4pm, £5 per person. Walking shoes preferred.

Children welcome.

• 20th July, Country & Folk Evening, The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock A fun and lively evening of Country/Folk music performed by the venue’s very own Express Club. Audience participation is essential and fancy dress is most definitely obligatory. Don’t miss it!

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SHROPSHIRE WHAT’S ON Large Model Aircraft Rally at Cosford

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 22ND JULY – 26TH JULY

Shrewsbury Folk Fest goes back to its roots

• 23rd July, Heartland: Within and Without – Vocal Workshops in the Shropshire Hills, Chalet Pavilion, Carding Mill Valley Composer and choir director Mary Keith and her singing groups create new choral music that is inspired by the Shropshire Hills and created in situ. Everyone is welcome to come to the workshops, either to sing or listen. From 2pm-5pm.

The Shrewsbury Folk Festival brings its blend of folk, roots and acoustic music to the West Mid Showground on 25th and 28th August. Loudon Wainwright III, Sarah Jarosz, The Unthanks and Le Vent Du Nord are just some of the names appearing. For kids, ‘Pandemonium!’ offers everything from storytelling to crafts, circus skills, lantern making, drama, dance and music workshops and there’s a dedicated dance tent for ceilidhs, workshops and dance shows. A free bus into the town centre runs on Saturday and Sunday to take you Hundreds of scale models of to fringe events including a dance parade and displays and pub iconic aircraft will be taking sessions. Alternatively, visitors can stay on site and enjoy the to the skies at the annual craft fair, food village, and real ale, prosecco and cocktail Large Model Aircraft DID YOU bars. www.shrewsburyfolkfestival.co.uk Rally on 15th-16th KNOW? July. Taking place on Antarctica comes to Shrewsbury ‘Scrobbesbyrigscir’ the airfield at Cosford, is Old English for this famous air show in Antarctica: Life in a Antarctica, Shropshire! miniature is an absolute hostile land, is coming to original must for any aviation Shrewsbury Museum & Art film footage, Gallery from 5th June until equipment from enthusiast. See a whole range 17th September. This new Antarctic expeditions of models designed, built and exhibition offers an exciting including a tent and sledge, flown by members of the Large insight into our relationship an outfit worn by a member Model Association from biplanes with the most hostile of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s to modern day jets. From a continent on Earth. epic 1914-17 expedition and Antarctica: Life in a hostile photos from celebrated distance in the skies, the models land, offers a thrillingly wildlife photographer truly look like the real thing! interactive experience with Ben Osborne. www.

Refreshments and trade stands a combination of prized shrewsburymuseum.org.uk available. Tickets: £8 advance historic exhibits and modern for adults, £10 on the gate and day technology that will allow visitors to become under 16s go free. immersed in the wonders of Visit www.rafmuseum.org.uk

• 23rd July, Ludlow Dog Day, Stokesay Court Ludlow’s fun Dog Day has become an essential date in every dog lover’s calendar providing the perfect opportunity for dogs, their owners and families to enjoy a great day out in the beautiful surroundings of Stokesay Court.

There is something for everyone: four event rings, a packed programme of dog displays, competitions (for owners and their dogs), a wide variety of stalls and activities, not to mention a play area for the children, a café and Hobson’s bar for the exhausted adults!

26th July, Summer holiday, Rays Farm Country Matters, Billingsley, Bridgnorth Learn how to groom a horse, stroke a Guinea Pig or meet Pippa the Pygmy Goat on her daily stroll. Follow the Ladybird and Bug trail around the farm and into the woods, challenge Dad to build a den in Fairytale Forest or race up the scramble nets.

10am to 5.30pm. Adults £9.45, concessions £8.45, children £7.25.

the Antarctic continent.

Features include a 360° virtual reality experience of Halley VI – the UK’s second largest research facility in

Festival Drayton Centre

See Ben Osborne’s Antartic photography

Oswestry Food & Drink Festival

in thrilling vocal harmony.

Tickets cost £22.

Peter Broster

• 22nd July, Bishop’s Castle Party in the Park One day music event organised by local ‘About Music Project’ committee. Continuous music from 12pm to 10pm, featuring a varied selection of local and guest bands. This is a relaxed family event so bring a chair and enjoy the music, bar, food and children’s activities.

A Dog’s Purpose (Cert PG), 31st July

Blake, 15th July Fresh from recent appearances on the Graham Norton Show, Strictly Come Dancing and The One Show, Blake, presents a tour featuring the finest songs from stage and screen including classic hits like You’ll Never Walk Alone, Memory, Somewhere Over The Rainbow and Music of the Night all sung

Who says only cats get nine lives? This film tells the tale of a dog that discovers he is reborn multiple times, and he begins searching for a purpose in each of his varied lives. This tail-wagging treat of a film offers a new angle on the canine buddy drama. Find out more at www.festivaldraytoncentre.com

Sat 15th & Sun 16th July 2017 The 11th Oswestry Food & Drink Festival is back this July! Celebrating all things foodie, there will be everything from local cheeses, real ales, homemade cakes, fresh meats, scrumptious pastries, bread, gluten-free goodies, delicious hot street food, refreshing cocktails, plus entertainment, activities and much more. The event is scattered around the centre of Oswestry. Visit www. oswestryfoodfestival.co.uk for more information.

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PROUDLY PRESENT

ANTARCTICA:

WHAT’S ON in

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JULY & AUGUST

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28th–30th July, Festival at the Edge International Storytelling Weekend.

Live music, workshops, dedicated children’s programme. New to Alderford this year.

4th & 5th August, Classic Film Night.

Two classic films, Jurassic Park and Jaws, will be shown in the open air.

20th August, Wind in the Willows.

Eye-catching costumes, toe-tapping music, larger than life characters. The perfect summer treat for all the family from the company that brought you last year’s smash hit, The Wizard of Oz! Call the box office 0871 220 0260.

1st July & 5th August, Whitchurch

Makers Market. High Street, 10am-4pm

15th July, Trevanion & Dean Auction of Fine Arts & Collectables.

Viewing Thurs 13th & Fri 14th prior to Sale • www.trevanionanddean.com

TO BOOK: CALL (01743) 258885

or email shrewsburymuseum@shropshire.gov.uk www.shrewsburymuseum.org.uk

2nd & 3rd September, Whitchurch Boat Rally. Whitchurch Arm of the

Llangollen Canal

For more information please visit

www.whitchurch.info

IRONBRIDGE.ORG.UK WHERE WILL YOUR VISIT TAKE YOU?

TO:

CHILD’S PLAY! FROM:

FAIR PLAY!

At Blists Hill Victorian Town 045_SHIRE_JA2017.indd 1

At Enginuity

10 AWARD WINNING ATTRACTIONS IN A WORLD HERITAGE SITE 30/06/2017 12:04

JULY TH & 29TH TH 30TH £3 per aduly & £1 per child entrance donation

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AWARD-WINNING MARKETS SHROPSHIRE PRODUCE MARKET 19th August 2017 OSWESTRY FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL 15th–16th July 2017

Town centre annual event celebrating the best from local producers.

CONTINENTAL MARKET 1st–2nd Sept 2017 CHARITY MARKET 8th Sept 2017

Bailey Head – local charities giving advice & raising money for their great causes

HERITAGE OPEN DAY MARKET 9th–10th Sept 2017

Come & watch traditional crafts such as wood turning & ironmongery. Traditional music & activities throughout Oswestry

For further information call 01691 680222 or visit: www.oswestry-tc.gov.uk

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WHAT’S ON SHROPSHIRE The Place

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

Jekyll & Hyde The Musical, 15th-16th July This musical horror-drama is based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Frank Wildhorn’s musical adaptation received critical acclaim following its Broadway debut.

Audiences will be treated to a new show that is every bit as fantastic, yet terrifying, as the original. Coinciding with the musical’s 25th anniversary you can expect tragedy and love that transcends time itself. From the same team that brought you The Phantom of the Opera, TACT has become synonymous with high quality theatre in the West Midlands and Jekyll and Hyde will be no exception.

Tickets cost £13.50.

Westside Story, 12th-13th August This is one of the most powerful musicals of all time that blends a classical and contemporary score and paved the way for the future of musical theatre and its themes continue to be as relevant as the day of its Broadway debut in 1957. This will be performed at the Auditorium, Oakengates Theatre. Tickets cost £13.50.

DID YOU KNOW? Nordic walking burns 46% more calories than normal walking!

Black Magic – The Little Mix Show, 31st August A highly energetic tribute show that follows in the footsteps of the award-winning girl band, Little Mix. With live vocals and dance choreography. Suitable for kids, tweens, teens and adults alike. To book visit www.theplace.co.uk.

Theatre on the Steps ‘A Black Country Fairytale…

Ay it!’, 15th July From the people who brought you ‘50 Shades of Fizzog’ and the creators of internet sensations; The Dancing Grannies, comes the latest production. This non-traditional tale of fantasy is a combination of not one, not two, but a few fairytale’s interwoven, with an added Black Country twist to spice things up a bit. Suitable for age 14 upwards. Starts at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £15.

A New Flame – Simply Red Tribute, 21st-22nd July This exceptional nine-piece band recreates every slick groove and perfect melody from Mick Hucknall’s remarkable career in an display of authenticity and style. Tickets: £20. www. theatreonthesteps.co.uk

30TH JULY – 6TH AUGUST

Dudmaston Estate Adventure walk with Shropshire Hills Nordic Walking UK, 13th and 20th July Go on a relaxing socialble nordic walking adventure. Wear comfortable shoes. Booking essential – tickets cost £6.

Make a mini raft, 26th July Create a mini raft and try it out on the big pool using wood, natural materials and basic equipment then set sail and see if they float! Cost is £5.

Stars and Stories by the Campfire, 5th August Gaze at the night sky and find out all about the star constellations above us before settling down to supper and stories by the campfire.

Tickets cost £15. www.nationatrust.org.uk

• 30th July, Mynd Hardy Plants – Open Garden for NGS, Craven Arms Commercial nursery within an old walled garden, offering and selling more than 800 varieties of herbaceous perennials.

Collections include hemerocallis and penstemon and a growing range of late summer flowering plants. The garden is undergoing a major restoration programme.

Open from 11am-5pm, admission £4, Children free. Homemade teas are available.

• 3rd August, Shelter Building, Shelter Building, Presthope car park, Wenlock Edge, Much Wenlock Come along and try your hand at this shelter building drop in session. All children must be accompanied by an adult. From 11am-2pm, £2 per child, there is no need to book.

• 4th August, Guide Dog Event Visit Oswestry’s Bailey Head from 9am-3pm to take part in this special event aimed at promoting the essential work of the local guide dogs giving everyone the chance to pet them and take part in a blindfold run.

Theatre Severn Carl Hutchinson – The Fixer, 14th July From people who obnoxiously post motivational quotes on social media to those who urge you to put your phone in rice when you get it wet, Carl Hutchinson tackles a bunch of little, everyday issues in his latest show. Starts 8pm. Tickets cost £13.

Bugsy Malone, 15th July Gangsters, guns and glamorous girls! Featuring a cast of local talented young performers who will take you back to 1930s America in this Olivier Award-nominated musical comedy.

The mayhem will be set to music – with perennial favourites Fat Sam’s Grand Slam, Give a Little Love and many more. Performances at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets cost £13.50..

Sofia Coppola’s La Traviata, 16th July, The Walker Theatre Haute couture meets Hollywood as acclaimed director Sofia Coppola and designer Valentino combine their talents to bring you one the most ambitious productions of La Traviata to date. Tickets cost £14.50.

Into The Woods, 20th-22nd July, Get Your Wigle On present the musical masterpiece which follows a Baker and his wife who wish to have a child. Various performances. Tickets £16.50. www.theatresevern.co.uk

• 5th August, Farmhouse Blues Festival, Wheathill Court Farm, Bridgnorth A one-day summer blues bash raising money for Cancer Research UK as well as Rupert’s Revenge, a charity to fund five-year-old Rupert’s cancer treatment for pioneering immunotherapy and future treatment abroad. The best local artists plus big names from the blues world will be taking to the stage between 2pm and 10pm.

Add delicious food, camping facilities for those who don’t want to leave, and the idyllic Shropshire countryside and you’re got one fab party! From 2pm-10pm. Tickets: £20 including camping and parking.

• 5th-6th August, Teddy Bear’s Picnic, Sunnycroft, Wellington Bring your favourite ted for a fun day in the garden at Sunnycroft.

Bears can bring a picnic to have on the lawn as well as playing some fun games and races.

Children can see how the Lander family used to play outside and can have their photograph taken with their cuddly pal. Open from 10:30am-3.30pm. Normal admission applies.

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SHROPSHIRE WHAT’S ON

V Festival

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 6TH AUGUST – 3RD SEPTEMBER

V Festival returns from 19th-20th August for two days of music in the grounds of Weston Park.

This year’s line-up includes Jay Z, Pink, Madness, Ellie Goulding, Dizzee Rascal, Ella Eyre, Don Diablo, Jason Derulo, Jack Saveretti, James Arthur, Emeli Sande, The Vamps and many more. With camping, chill out zones, VIP area, dance arena and comedy tent. www.vfestival.com

• 6th August, Oswestry Street Band Bring the family along to Cae Glas Park for an afternoon of street band music, fun and activities. From 2pm-4pm.

• 6th August, Hope House Cycle Challenge, Morda The Hope House Cycle Challenge is back with a new 57 mile route which takes in the stunning views of the beautiful Ceiriog Valley, five peaks of over 1000ft and a peak of 1368ft! £25 to register in advance or £35 on the day.

Refreshments and afternoon tea served afterward. 8.30am start.

• 9th August, Pride and Prejudice, Church Stretton School Theatre, Church Stretton

What’s on in Whitchurch Trevanion & Dean Auction of Fine Arts & Collectables, 15th July Come along to this auction and see if you can pick up a hidden gem or two! Viewing Thursday and Friday, 13th & 14th July prior to the sale on Saturday 15th July.

Classic Film Night, 4th & 5th August Snuggle up with family and Take a step back in time with Chapterhouse Theatre Company friends, to meet Elizabeth Bennet, Jane bring your Austen’s most loveable heroine popcorn and blanket and watch in this brand-new adaptation celebrating the 200th two classic films - Jurassic Anniversary of Jane Park and Jaws in the open Austen’s death.

DID YOU air at Dearnford Lake!

KNOW? • 13th August, Magnalonga, A new study has Castle Square, revealed laughing Ludlow A leisurely walk through really is the countryside, contagious! with four stops. At each stop walkers will receive locally-sourced food served with local ale, perry or cider.

Whitchurch Makers Market, 5th August, High Street See some wonderful

A giggle at Caboose

• 24th August, 50 Things Blitz, Presthope car park, Wenlock Edge Come and tick off 50 things to do before you’re 11 and 3/4.

Hunt for bugs using specialist equipment, make a trail with sticks, hunt for fossils in the quarries and bird watch from the bird hide.

11am-3pm, £2 per child.

• 1st-3rd September, Apple Fest 2017, Apley Farm Shop, Telford All music genres come together for a fun-filled weekend of music, DJs and dancing at Apley Farm in Telford. From 10am Friday until Sunday. Over 18s only.

Oswestry’s latest comedy offering has recently launched and plans to become a new regular event to be held monthly at Carriages on Gobowen Road. Pop down on 28th July to experience a Caboose night. More than just rib-tickling comedy, the evenings will be a dining experience with each event having a new food theme.

Visit www.carriagesbar.com or a line-up of future dates.

local crafts, buy some handmade gifts and tasty local produce at The Makers Market held in Whitchurch centre from 10am-4pm.

Car Boot Sale supporting Carers Trust for All, 16th August One man’s junk is another man’s treasure so come and pick up a bargain or sell something and make some extra cash.

Whitchurch Boat Rally, 2nd & 3rd September, Llangollen Canal See local teams compete in the boat-rally. With stalls and refreshments and plenty of spectating to be done!

The Ellesmere Summer Festival Visit Ellesmere on 11th, 12th and 13th August for food, fun and fabulous local culture.

With a free art exhibition, craft fair and activities at the wharf as well as stalls in the narrow boats along the canal.

The Ellesmere Model Railway Club will be hosting their 19th Exhibition at the Town Hall. With food, stalls and more. www.ellesmere summerfestival.weebly.com

What’s on at Whittington Castle Multi Period Event, July 29th and 30th Mingle with folk from across the ages from the Ancient Greeks, Medieval peasants and Tudors to the Victorians and soldiers of World War II. With refreshment stalls, talks, demos and a multihistorical tug of war – who will be victorious?

From 10am4pm. Tickets: £3 adult £1 for children.

Teddy Fundraising Day, 13th August Come to the Castle for one of their unique fundraising days and see the stunt teddies in action around the castle.

There will be stalls, activities and refreshments.

Vintage Fete, August 28th The Whittington Vintage Summer Fete will again have a retro theme. It will showcase some of the best talent from local clubs plus maypole dancing, games and competitions galore.

From 12-4pm. Free entry.

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HEREFORDSHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 8TH JULY - 18TH JULY

•8th July, Summer Concert for

Craswall, Dore Abbey The Elysian Singers and Consort, under their conductor Sam Laughton, return to Dore Abbey with a celebration of the very greatest composers of the Baroque period: JS Bach and GF Handel, both born in 1685.

Bach is represented by two of his most sparkling cantatas: and Handel by two of his ‘Chandos Anthems’ as well as music from his oratorio ‘Samson’.

•

9th July, Hereford Race For Life, Hereford Leisure Centre Run, jog or walk and raise money to help beat breast cancer. Adult entry (women aged 16+), £14.99; children (girls aged 6-15 and boys aged 12 or under), £10.00 and under 6s go free with no registration required.

•

9th July, Ullingwicke Village Fete, St Luke’s Church Ullingswick Village Fete features all the usual stalls, refreshments and music but this year will also be featuring a display of local interesting cars and tractors. With games, produce, and many more attractions, it will be an enjoyable afternoon. From 2pm to 5pm.

Arts Alive!

Film: The Light Between Oceans (12A), 12th July, Market Theatre, Ledbury

When lighthouse keeper Tom Sherbourne (Michael Fassbender) and his adored wife Isabel (Alicia Vikander) discover a baby adrift in a boat off the remote coast off western Australia. When they decide to raise the child as their own, the shattering consequences change their lives forever. Tickets: £6 for adult, £3 for children.

Film: Volver, 27th July (15), St Mary’s Church Hall, Ross-on-Wye This brilliant synthesis of love story, melodrama, ghost story

•

18th July, Evening Gala Organ Concert, Hereford Cathedral Peter Dyke, Assistant Director of Music at Hereford cathedral presents an evening of organ music. With pieces by J S Bach, Franck, Vierne and Elgar.

Event starts at 7.15pm. Free entry.

and thriller that tells of three generations of women who survive death, fire and madness by means of goodness, boundless energy, and lies. Starring Penelope Cruz, Carmen Maura, Lola Duenas. Tickets: £4.50 adult, £3 child.

Britain

cost £2.50. 11am-4pm. Normal admission costs apply.

Swallows and Amazons Family Trail, 22nd July The trail is based on the book Swallows and Amazons published in 1930 and relates to the outdoor adventures and play of two families of children.

These involve sailing, camping, fishing, exploration and piracy.

Follow the clues, solve the puzzle and win prize. Trails

Brockhampton Young Rangers Club, 26th July.

These are days of challenges, skills and adventures for children who love messing about in the woods with sticks, water, mud and fires.

Become a ranger for the day and learn skills like bushcraft, den making, pond dipping and wildlife tracking.

Brockhampton Young Rangers club will run every Wednesday over the summer holidays from 11am - 4pm. Tickets cost £25. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Music, cider and more at Down on the Farm Festival More than 25 acts will be appearing across two stages at the family-friendly, three-day music festival, which returns to Abbey Dore from the 11th-13th August. Organised by Gwatkin Cider based at Moorhampton Park Farm, acts headlining include Pablo Alto, Dr Feelgood, ska band; 3 Chord, Blues act,

The Leominster/Hereford Kite Festival, 15th July This laid-back familyfriendly event is open to the public as well as kite enthusiasts returns to Berrington Hall. Festivalgoers can bring along their own kites to fly, or watch expert displays with the best sport and single line kites. The flying site will be on the lawns leading down to a lake on the estate. The event opens from 10am5pm and regular admission applies. For more information visit www. kitefestival.org.uk

NTL: Yerma (15), 31st August, Market Theatre, Ledbury Award-winning actress Billie Piper (Penny Dreadful, Great Britain) stars as a woman driven to the unthinkable by her desparate desire DID YOU to have a child.

KNOW? Call 07967 George II was 517125, go to the last British www.artsalive monarch to be .co.uk for more born outside information.

Events at the Brockhampton Estate

•

15th & 16th July, Ralph Court Gardens – Open Garden for NGS 12 amazing gardens set in the grounds of a gothic rectory.

A family orientated garden with a twist, incorporating an Italian Piazza, an African Jungle, Dragon Pool, Alice in Wonderland and the elves in their conifer forest.

Licenced tea room overlooks Malvern Hills. Admission £8, children £5. Open 10am-5pm.

Berrington Hall

Brassick and indie crooners, Mexico.

There will be plenty of delicious locally sourced food and lots of cider (obviously). Adult weekend tickets: £33, child: £15. Go to www. downonthefarmfestival. gwatkincider.co.uk

‘Wearing the Garden’ Trail, 22nd July–3rd September Explore the gardens in an entirely new way as you discover how the Georgians ‘wore the garden’. Find out how you can be a fashion King or Queen of the eighteenth century by finding all of the garments, designed and inspired by the garden.

Follow the trail and rediscover the elegance and gruesome facts about the Georgian dress. Trail costs £2.50 and includes a prize. Normal admission fees apply.

Boating on the Lake, 7th-11th, 14th-18th, 21st-25th and 28th31st August See Berrington from a new perspective with a boat trip on the glorious lake and see the Genius Loci installations close up. Boats can be hired for half hour trips. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

50 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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WHAT’S ON HEREFORDSHIRE

What’s on at the Conquest Theatre

Folk in the Foyer: Double Bill – Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne, Chris Cleverley, 7th July Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne, known primarily for his work with BBC Radio 2 Folk Award nominees Granny’s Attic, has recently made his first venture into performing as a soloist.

As well as playing melodeon and concertina, Cohen is a fine singer, having won Bromyard Folk Festival’s Future of Young Folk Award in 2014. Cohen performs traditional songs and tunes from the UK with a particular interest in material

from the West Midlands where he has lived for much of his life. Award winning Chris Cleverley is renowned for his ability to draw audiences in with hauntingly delivered tales of ghost women, lonesome clock towers, lovelorn mariners and hospital beds. Performance starts 7.30pm, tickets cost £8.

Hand to Mouth Productions: Billy Liar, 14th July Billy has got a bit of a problem: three girlfriends, two fiancées

Outdoor events at Croft Castle refreshments. Wear suitable walking clothing. 11am-3pm.

Normal admission applies.

Croft Ambrey Walk, 8th July David Lovelace takes visitors for a guided walk through the parkland and up to Croft Ambrey, the Iron Age hillfort.

Get a unique insight into the woodland restoration project.

Bring a packed lunch and

Lord of The Rings Trail, 22nd July Do you have what it takes to track down the Croft ring and save the castle from peril? Seek out the characters who can help with your mission to find the Croft ring on the family trail around the grounds. Watch out for temptation and Gollum along the way and collect a prize at

and only one engagement ring.

Now a talented and enthusiastic young cast bring Hand to Mouth Theatre’s version of this modern comedy classic to the 21st century stage. Starts 7.30pm, tickets: £10 or £8 conc.

Film: Hidden Figures, 1st Sept The incredible untold true story of three African-American women working at NASA who served as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in history: the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit. Tickets: DID YOU £6. www. conquestKNOW? theatre.

The Lord of The co.uk Rings films grossed

Weir Garden 50 Things Summer Evening Camp, 8th July Build dens, cook on a camp fire and tick off many more things of your bucket list.

Call 01981 590509. Booking essential. This event starts at 3pm, 8th July and finishes at 11am, Sunday 9th July.

Wizardry & Magic, 16th July Come along and marvel at the magic shows and learn some super secrets and amazing tricks in the magic workshops. Tickets: £7.00, child (3-15yrs): £5.00 and family ticket (2+3): £19.00.

Children’s Outdoor Theatre: Billionaire Boy, 23rd July Hear the story of how Mr Spud made his billions and then lost it all in this hilarious story by David Walliams. Bring a picnic rug or low backed chairs to sit on and a picnic to enjoy during the performance. £762 million at the Tickets: £13 for adults, £9 for children, family package box office (2+2) £37.

the end. Trails cost £2.50. From 10am-4pm.

Fifties Croft, 19th-20th August Croft Castle is celebrating the 60th anniversary of Croft coming into the National Trust’s care in 1957. Enjoy a weekend of 1950s memorabilia, fashion, literature, vintage cars, food and traditions. Free event but normal admission fee applies. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Black Mountains Barn Opera Gala Join fellow opera lovers on 15th July for an evening at Black Mountain Barn in Longtown and enjoy a welcoming champagne reception and a delightfully mixed programme that showcases the extraordinary talents of young local artists from The Royal Welsh College.

This will include pieces from operas by Mozart, Rossini and Donizetti, as well as a selection

What’s on at Eastnor Castle

of lighter music for a summer’s evening. There will be an opportunity to purchase a choice of hampers to be enjoyed during the dinner interval or bring along your own. The Garden opens at 5pm with performances starting at 6pm. Tickets cost: £55 per person – champers included. Black Tie or smart dress. Visit www.black mountains barns.co.uk for more info and to book tickets.

Astronaut Training, 23rd-27th July Budding space fanatics can come along to the castle to learn all about the cosmos, launch rockets, build satellites and much more!

Tickets: adult: £7, child (315yrs): £5, family (2+3): £19 Dinosaur Show, 6th-10th August Travel back in time with a life-like walking, roaring T-rex and learn all about these fascinating prehistoric creatures. Tickets: adult: £7, Child (3-15yrs): £5, Family (2+3): £19 Firework Championships, 2nd September This fun, family event sees four of the UK’s top firework companies fire 10-minute displays to music.

Bring a picnic or grab food on site. Camping available.

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HEREFORDSHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 22ND JULY - 20TH AUGUST

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22nd July, Peterstowe Village Fete Come along to this traditional village fete with stalls, music, games, teas, cakes, BBQ and a dog show! Free entry.

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22nd-23rd July, Steampunk & Pirate Weekend, Hope & Anchor Inn, Ross-on-Wye Arrr, me hearties! Enjoy historical re-enactors demonstrating and recreating aspects of life aboard ships for the real pirates of yesteryear, plus steampunk stalls and tea dueling!

Free entry.

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4th-5th August, Rhodds Farm – Open Garden for NGS, Lyonshall The garden began in 2005 and is still a work in progress, with steep banks rising to overhanging woodland and wonderful views.

The formal garden leads to new dovecote, mixed borders have interest throughout the year with the double herbaceous borders of hot colours being particularly good in summer. Open from 11am5pm. Admission £5, children free.

Tea and cake will be available for guests to help themselves in return for a donation.

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5th-6th August, Potters Wheel Workshop Weekend, Eastnor Pottery

GIGS Reggae Pie LIVE: Mainly Madness @ the Shire Hall, Hereford, Friday 7th July Reggae Pie brings their first major live action show to Hereford with Mainly Madness – ska masters and one of the top tribute acts in the UK. If you like your two-tone, you’ll love them! With covers from Madness and The Specials to The Beat and Bad Manners.

Tickets are £10 advance and £15 on the door. Gig starts at 7.30pm.

Visit www.regpie.bigcartel.com for tickets.

Hereford Indie Food Festival

Hereford Indie Food – a celebration of the city’s vibrant food and drink scene, returns from 26th28th August at Aubrey Street in Hereford. Try a taste of locally produced specialities, great music and a DID YOU homegrown and heartfelt KNOW? vibe.

The festival will be Ministry of located in the car park Sound launched behind Burger Shop in 1991 from a and The Bookshop on former bus Ministry of Sound, The Left Bank Aubrey Street. Expect depot As part of 25-year MoS anniversary street food dining areas, tour Matt May, Hariet Jaxxon and Tom craft beer and cocktail Bulwer headline as 12 additional DJs join the bars, DJs and live music party and take over the venue for the night. Every £1 all day and night. Produce of the ticket price goes to charity. Tickets: £20, VIP and makers market, food pass £40. www.mcpromotions.nutickets.com talks with knockout food full of interesting bits from Los Fastidios, The Booth Hall, 9th Hereford’s finest to showcase August This musical mash-up of the young businesses who’ve classical 80s British Punk and rock’n’roll been re-enlivening the city is set to a hardcore beat. Songs cover for the past couple of years. topics like social issues and racism. www.herefordindiefood.com www.theboothhall.co.uk ‘Crisis of Conscience’ Hereford Punk Festival, The Booth Hall, Saturday 8th July The Hereford Punk Festival featured bands, poets and artists from across Herefordshire and the surrounding region and this year is hosted by The Underground Revolution. Each year the event raises funds for a variety of homeless charities. Expect it loud, angry and full of energy. Headliners include TV Smith, Line Runners, The Youth Within, On Trial UK, Terminal Rage and Alvin & the Angry Barrels.

Small friendly groups and seven electric potter’s wheels ensure plenty of individual attention and guidance at this creative weekend. Explore techniques based upon the potter’s wheel including: throwing, turning, attaching handles and motifs and decorating methods using underglaze and coloured slip. £240 including refreshments, lunch and all materials.

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13th August, The Joy & Pleasure of Cider with Food, Castle House Tom Oliver from Oliver’s Cider and Perry in Ocle Pychard, joins Claire Nicholls, Castle House’s executive head chef to create a menu that shows the incredible versatility of cider and perry with a selection of delicious dishes. Tickets: £45 including cider and perry tasting and a three-course dinner.

What’s on at Hampton Court Gardens Flying Birds of Prey Spectacular, 23rd July See Trevor Hill’s Falconry’s display, one of the largest and most varied in the UK. Meet eagles, vultures, caracaras, hawks, falcons, owls and more!

Shows at 11.30am and 2.30pm.

Normal admission prices apply.

Exotic Animal & Bird Encounters 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 23rd & 24th August Trevor Hill’s back with amazing encounters which will bring you up close and personal with meerkats, skunks, spiders, armadillos and lizards to name just a few! Normal admission fees apply.

Chapter House Presents Great Expectations, 26th July Dicken’s classic novel follows the fortunes of young Pip as he falls in love, finds his fortune and makes his way in the world. Tickets priced from £10. Bring a rug or seat. www.hamptoncourt.org.uk

Jazz Night with Kim Cypher Kim Cypher comes to Castle House for an evening of jazz on July 13th. This gifted saxophonist who has her own inimitable and unique style is also an accomplished jazz vocalist and composer. Described as ‘One of the most exciting jazz musicians in the South West’, Kim regularly appears on national TV and radio.

The event includes a threecourse dinner with cocktails and canapés on arrival. Tickets cost £45 and the evening begins at 6.30pm. To book tickets visit www.castlehse.co.uk

52 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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WHAT’S ON HEREFORDSHIRE Linton Music Festival

Lakefest 2017 goes Hawaiian The Charlatans, Badly Drawn Boy, ASWAD and YAK join the line-up on the Castle Stage at the family-friendly music festival from 10th-13th August at Eastnor Castle Deer Park near Ledbury. The unmissable LakeFest is back for its sixth year of summer magic and promises to be another summer stunner of an event. Feeder, Imelda May, Turin Brakes, Wilko Johnson, Kíla, Alabama 3 and Seth Lakeman will also be playing.

Malvern Theatres

The Scarecrows’ Wedding, Forum Theatre, 19th-22nd July Scamp Theatre presents a heart-warming production of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s charming book.

Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay are excellent scarecrows. Harry loves Betty, and Betty loves Harry, so they decide to get married and Harry sets off to search for their wedding day essentials. However, when the farmer notices he is missing a scarecrow, he replaces Harry with the devilishly smooth

The ever-popular Floating for children and adults to make Globe stage will house bands their own lei and grass skirts. like Fly Yeti Fly, The Minkie Family is at the heart of Lakefest Whales, The Curious Incident, and attractions including the Albert Man and Ruth Theodore.

Pro BMX dirt jump competition Each year, Lakefest has a fancy will be back, alongside pottery dress theme, and this year it’s lessons, kids yoga, a creche, embracing all things Hawaiian! workshop activities, free There will be signature cocktails passenger rides with Land available, Hawaiian themed Rover Experience Eastnor, a props and nods to Hawaii tiny tots rave and DJ workshops. throughout the Camping and glamping is DID YOU weekend, including available onsite.

KNOW? craft workshops www.lakefest.co.uk

The Teddy Bear was invented in honour of President Teddy Roosevelt The Crucible, Festival Theatre, in 1902

but dangerous Reginald Rake.

Scamp Theatre’s inimitable style is everpresent and promises wit, drama, and wedding bells!

Performance runs at various times. Tickets cost £14.56 or £10.08 for school groups.

Shirley Valentine, Festival Theatre, 24th-29th July Willy Russell’s one-woman comedy play premiered in 1986 and took the world by storm. Now, on its 30th anniversary, Jodie Prenger stars in the first major revival of this national treasure.

Tickets priced from £17.36.

16th-19th August Malvern Theatres Young Company presents Arthur Miller’s 1950s masterpiece The Crucible directed by Nic Lloyd. No admission fee.

The Pirates of Penzance, Festival Theatre, 1st-2nd Sept The National Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Company presents this wonderful jolly romp with pirates, a dotty MajorGeneral, his pretty daughters and bumbling policemen! www.malvern-theatres.co.uk

What’s on at The Waterworks Museum teeming with life! 11am-3pm.

Pond-Dipping, 25th July Come along and pond-dip at the museum. See if you can identify any ‘beasties’ with a microscope and see the pond

Gala Day, 30th July See historic vehicles fully restored, the Hereford Concert Band will be providing the entetainment and the Mayor of Hereford will open the brand

new Massington Lineshaft display! It’s a great day out.

Teddy Bears’ Picnic, 22nd August Bring your favourite teddy (and a picnic) along from 11am to 3pm. Follow the trail, take the quiz and have lots of fun!

From 7th-9th July at The Alma Inn in Linton near Ross-onWye, this three-day music festival set in the beautiful Herefordshire countryside has grown to become a firm fixture in the local music-lovers calendar.

Bernie Marsden, The Band of Friends, Heinrik Freischlader, Slim Chance, Hayseed Dixie, Billy Walden Band and The Rainbreakers are just a few of the acts playing. Expect great music, fab local food, ale and cider in a fantastic rural pub setting. Tickets from £20 for Friday night and a full weekend ticket costs £84. There is camp available too. Go to www. linton festival. org

VW Camper & Bus Show: camping at the Castle

Taking place over the weekend of 28th-30th July at Eastnor Castle Deer Park, this fab, friendly festival can rightly claim to be one of the most picturesque locations of any VW show. The event is a mix of show buses, club vehicles and live entertainment from Northern Soul legends; The Soul Train and ska kings, The Nutty Boys. Don’t miss the unique soap box derby on castle hill and the VW Bouncy Van for the kids.A full weekend with camping for an adult costs £39. Day tickets from £13, under 14s go free. Visit www. volksworldshows.com.

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HEREFORDSHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

Nozstock 2017

19TH - 31ST AUGUST

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19th-20th August, Ross on Wye Model Railway Exhibition, John Kyrle High School Featuring more than 20 different layouts, demonstrations and several trade stands.

Refreshments available all day.

Disabled access. All funds raised will be used to support local charities and good causes. Open 10am until 4pm both days. Adults £4, children £3, family (2+2) £10.

The Happy Mondays, Seasick Steve and General Levy are just some of the bands playing this year’s Nozstock from 21st- 23rd July at Rowden Paddocks in Bromyard. This intimate festival was nominated for the The Greener Festival Award 2016, aimed at celebrating eco-friendly events in the UK. With nine different stages, each with its

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22nd August, Julian Sayarer Interstate, Rossiter Books Round the world cyclist Julian Sayarer returns to Ross to talk about his latest book, the Stanford Dolman Travel Book of the Year 2016, Interstate – Hitch Hiking Through the State of a Nation. Tickets cost £3 and the event starts at 7pm.

The Great Celebration at Ledbury

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27th August, Credenhill Canter, Credenhill Social Club Take part in this 10km run raising money for the special care baby unit. Taking in bridle paths and woodland scenery, there will be live music afterwards with presentation of trophies. Affiliated runners, £12 fee, unaffiliated, £14.

•27th August, Bromyard Hop

Festival There will be a wide variety of events thoughout Bromyard town centre including a craft fair, crafts demos, trade stands a free music festival, parade of vintage cars and tractors, beer festival and food stands plus the World Championship Hop Pocket races.

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29th-31st August, Land Rover Experience, Eastnor Castle A great day out for thrill-seekers!

Visitors can ride around the Eastnor Land Rover off-road tracks – not for the fainthearted!

own vibe, there is something for everyone. Other performers playing this year include Ocean Wisdom, Mungo’s Hi-Fi, Beans on Toast, Rodney P & Skitz, The Correspondents, Lady Chann, Jeremiah Ferrari, Sola Rosa, Dabbla Illaman and DJ Frosty, Land of The Giants, Stiff Joints, Mango Factory and Normanton Street.

DJs Krafty Kuts & Dynamite MC, Delta Heavy, Hazard & Eksman, 15 Years of Critical Records feat. Break, Tribe of Frog,

Now a fixture in the local food and drink calendar on the last day of Ledbury’s annual Poetry Festival, The Great Celebration on Sunday 9th July brings out all that is best about Ledbury.

This year celebrates the 400th anniversary of the iconic Market House in a birthday treat of food, drink,

What’s on at The Courtyard

music, poetry and heritage on. Visitors can discover the best of local food in the street market while soaking up the festival atmosphere with entertainment throughout the day from poets, bands and musicians. Meet characters The Outside Track, 19th July from old Ledbury, step into A marriage of Canadian, Scottish and Irish music the past in the Market House that has been rapturously and visit the special heritage received around the world, buildings. Enjoy morris its five members play fiddle, dancing and puppet theatre accordion, harp, guitar, and sample the locally flute, step-dance and vocals. Tickets from £13. produced juices, DID YOU ciders and perrys.

War for The Planet KNOW? www.ledbury of The Apes (12A), Hereford has foodgroup.org.

28th July-3rd Aug

The Vintage Escape Festival Curl your hair, put your best bobby-dazzler of a smile on and dance the night away, under the stars at Eastnor Castle’s Deer Park from 14th-16th July.

The Vintage Escape Festival gears up for a sparkling celebration of a by-gone era featuring some of the best loved jazz and swing musicians in the U.K, inspiring dance tutors, classic cars, vintage fashion, delicious fresh food, creative kids fun and lots more. Bring your bike and wear your tweeds for the vintage bike ride, or try some golf taster sessions, fun and games with the pros from Tim Hall Golf School. For toptapping tunes, headliners include Bruce/Illett and the Big Band,

Remidy MC, Octo Pi, Trafic MC, Scope and Dex plus many more. Those who love theatre, circus and comedy will love the line-up which includes; Phil Kaye, Jayde Adams, Velveteen Valley Cabaret; Spare Room Arts’ Little Wonderland; Clik Clik’s Cabinet of Lost Secrets; Mash Cinema present Wrong Directions. Plenty of interactive street arts, theatrical walkabouts, circus and crafts mean there is something for everyone Tickets from £95. www.nozstock.com

some of the best Reprising the wild swimming in successful franchise, we find Caesar and his the UK!

King Pleasure and The Biscuit Boys and The Electric Swing Circus. Various tickets available including dicounts for locals. www.thevintageescape.com

apes in a deadly conflict with an army of humans, led by a ruthless colonel.

Tickets from £5. www.courtyard.org.uk

Climb aboard for the Wye Float Celebrating the beauty of the River Wye and the life that it brings to the city of Hereford, this fun day on 12th August sees participants float down a set and controlled route of the river in various kinds of inflatables!

For more info visit www. wyefloat. co.uk

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FREE DELIVERY IN ENGLAND & WALES, CAFÉ & FREE PARKING

LLANIDLOES, POWYS, SY18 6ES Tel: 01686 414000 www.hafrenfurnishers.co.uk INTEREST FREE CREDIT AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

Visit us at Royal Welsh Show 24 th – 27 th July, stand C246, for show exclusive savings!

subject to status

OPEN: MON – FRI: 9AM – 6PM, SAT: 9AM – 5.30PM, LATE NIGHT THURS: 9AM – 8PM, CLOSED SUN.

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BIRMINGHAM

BLINK-182, The Barclaycard Arena, 7th July Fresh from the success of their UK and US number one album, ‘California’, Blink-182 is one of the defining rock bands of their generation combining high-energy dynamics with artistic ambition that transcends any genre.

Dinosaurs In The Wild, The NEC, 24th June-23rd August Combines theatre, theme park fun and the latest scientific research using 3D movie effects, animatronics, sound, lighting, and dramatic storytelling to let families experience a completly believable prehistoric world.

Miss Saigon, Birmingham Hippodrome, 26th July23rd September Miss Saigon tells the story of a young bar girl named Kim, orphaned by war, who falls in love with Chris, an American GI – but their lives are torn apart by the fall of Saigon. Still a fan favourite!

The Dreamboys, New Alexandra Theatre, 6th September They’re back and hotter than ever with a brand new show and UK tour. If you’re looking for the very best girls night out, look no further than these incredible stripping hunks.

CARDIFF

The Bowie Experience, St David’s Hall, 14th July One of the UK’s top tribute acts to one of the world’s greatest music icons. The Bowie Experience span the entire breadth of David Bowie’s career in sound and vision, with stage sets, backdrops and outfits.

The Addams Family – The Musical, Wales Millennium Centre, 1st-12th August Everyone’s favourite kooky family are now on stage in the UK premiere of this spectacular musical comedy.

Join Wednesday, Gomez and Morticia, plus Uncle Fester, Lurch and Pugsley.

PAW Patrol Live! Motorpoint Arena, 26th August Based on the hit TV series on Nickelodeon PAW Patrol Live! brings everybody’s favourite pups to the stage for an action-packed, highenergy, musical adventure where ‘no job is too big, no pup is too small.’

Explosive Light Orchestra – A Celebration of ELO and Jeff Lynne, The Globe, 2nd September An epic night of rock classics and melodic symphonic rock by the most sort after ELO Tribute Band showcasing the genius of Jeff Lynne and ELO.

LIVERPOOL

An Audience With Stan Boardman, The Epstein Theatre, 15th July A fascinating insight into Stan’s life growing up in Liverpool. Enjoy his standup routines, archive clips on the big screen, and take part in an interactive chat and Q&A session.

Joe McElderry – Saturday Night At The Movies Live!

Liverpool Empire Theatre, 18th July Joe embarks on a national tour of spectacular one night concerts performing tracks from his new album which will get you singing along. With special guests.

Dreamboats and Petticoats – The Musical, Liverpool Empire Theatre, 31st July-5th August Inspired by the album, Dreamboats and Petticoats The Musical features songs from Roy Orbison, The Shadows, Eddie Cochran, Billy Fury, Chuck Berry and more.

Fusion Festival 2017, Otterspool Park and Promenade, 2nd-3rd Sept Little Mix headlines on Saturday with supporting acts Tinie Tempah and John Newman, whilst Take That will finish off proceedings on the Sunday with The Vamps, Ella Henderson and others!

MANCHESTER

BIG CITY WHAT’S ON

Jack Whitehall: At Large, O2 Apollo Manchester, 16th July Catch the final performance of multi award-winning Jack Whitehall as he ends his biggest ever stand-up tour of his critically-acclaimed hit, At Large. See Jack at his dynamic best, live on stage.

Not suitable for under 16s.

Soul Town, Albert Hall, 22nd July Martha Reeves, Russ Winstanley, Colin Curtis, Alan King and Black Bee Soul Club perform at this nostalgia-filled night that will send you straight back to the swinging 60s. Live perfomance and DJ sets.

In The Night Garden Live intu Trafford Centre, 5th- 28th August Children and parents are able to meet the much-loved characters Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy and Makka Pakka in a live performance brought to life with full-size costumes and enchanting music.

The Jungle Book, The Lowry, Salford, 29th August –2nd September This spectacular new production from awardwinning Metta Theatre brings Kipling’s classic tale crashing into the 21st century with breathtaking street dance performances.

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The Shire team have been hard at work visiting as many shows as possible (tough job, but someone’s got to do it…) Here, you can read what our reviewers thought, and how many stars out of five they gave…

BOLESWORTH INTERNATIONAL WIN! Turn to The Equerry Bolesworth International page 129 for Horse Show not only showcases topflight your chance to equestrianism but makes a great family win tickets to day out with the stunning Bolesworth great shows Castle and Cheshire countryside providing a glorious backdrop. If you’re a keen equestrian like myself, you can’t help but be impressed by the calibre of the show. I attended on the Sunday (18th June) which was the last day of the five day event to watch the Grand Prix Show Jumping with some of the biggest names in British and international show jumping competing which was just as thrilling as I anticipated. I also found myself drawn to a lot the other attractions; the Pro Wakeboard Tour formed part of the Bolesworth International Water Festival and I watched in awe as professional wakeboarders flung themselves 20 metres in the air over inflatable obstacles on the lake. There was plenty of opportunity to have a go at the water activities including kayaking and paddle boarding and although it was 30 degrees and dip in the water wouldn’t have been the worst thing, I decided today wasn’t the day to try. The Freestyle Motocross was very impressive watching three people fling themselves 40ft in the air up and over a ramp with a 50ft gap and outdo each other with tricks. There’s plenty for kids with crazy golf, inflatable slides, a wipeout course, funfair, pony rides and exotic animals. The shopping was mainly equestrian and there were plenty of catering and bar options, and a golden prosecco bar. It’s not to be missed if you enjoy a high level equestrian competition. LC

ALIC E IN WO N DERL A N D A few weeks ago my father and I took a trip to the newly constructed Storyhouse to see the premiere of the classic Alice in Wonderland. I was expecting some dreary, fanciful story that wouldn’t at all appeal to my taste, but boy was I wrong! I was, at first, a little shocked at the choice of not using backdrops and thought to myself; ‘Why was I so indifferent to coming here?’ but then the play began to unfold. My eyes started to open up to the fact that backdrops aren’t actually that necessary. They distract you from the real purpose of your visit: the actors. The cast managed to find a perfect and suited supplement – letters that spelled out Wonderland. Throughout the magical course of the play these letters were used for a variety of miscellaneous purposes, stretching from trials to tea parties. The actors, too, were fitting for their parts – The Mad Hatter was my particular favourite. I’d recommend it to all ages, I’m 13 but I still thoroughly enjoyed it.

If you’re searching for a place to eat beforehand why don’t you try the restaurant below the theatre! TB

MIXING IT UP ON THE WIRRAL Headlining at the three-day Wirral Live music event, Little Mix were the main act on the last night alongside Conor Maynard and Bronnie Hughes as warm-up acts. The girls did not disappoint, delivering an amazing stage show with constant surprises and a powerful performance throughout the concert.

Adapted to suit the audience of mainly young girls, their show was laid-back and family friendly, rather than some of their previous raunchy productions, so thoroughly enjoyable for everyone. Little Mix sang their whole repertoire, from their first song, Cannonball all the way through to their latest release, Power which as the name suggests was full of girl power. The show was bursting with energy, and the band gave it their all with fireworks going off on the stage and confetti raining down at the end of the breath-taking finale. 11-year-old Isobel said: ‘It was a brilliant experience, full of excitement and everyone really enjoyed themselves.’ IS

FOODIE FUN AT E L L E S M E R E F O O D & D R I NK F E ST As a resident of Ellesmere, I thought it would be good to support a local event so I went along to the Ellesmere Food and Drink Festival (17-18th June).

The event was based at two of the town’s venues: the Market Hall on Scotland Street and The Town Hall. We walked to the Market Hall first, where it was buzzing with locals and smelled great! There were lots of options for street food – I went for the citrus chicken burrito from The Flying Burrito Brothers, while the kids ordered savoury crepes (which were huge!)They were tempted by the Pizza Cones but the queue was very long! I bought some fresh chai tea to take home, and some smoked sausage and we grazed on fresh strawberries before meandering down to the Town Hall to peruse the cheese, meats, pickles and other fresh produce. My husband chose a lamb koftie for his lunch and while I was tempted by the gin and cake stall, we sat in the sun and ate ice creams from the very cute vintage ice cream van and enjoyed people-watching!

Perhaps a few extra drink options would’ve been good – although the kids enjoyed their milkshakes. Overall a really fun – and tasty – afternoon. JS If you have a show or event happening anywhere in Wales and the Borders, we’ll send a reviewer – and your show can appear under the spotlight on these pages too! Just email the details to editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 57

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LYNNE ALLBUTT

MIND, BODY & CELEBRITIES Another year has passed at the sublime and inspiring Chelsea Flower Show.

Our Lynne was there to meet the great and the good from celebland...

The crowds always flock to the event

Chris Evans was looking to bag a bargain

Cerys Matthews was browsing the gardens

O

ne of the many things I love about the New Product Award winner, this time of year is the packed a frameless glasshouse, which I have season of flower shows. If you haven’t to admit that I loathed as I could read our lovely feature on the RHS at only envisage birds flying into it).

Tatton later in July then I suggest you It’s not for me – I’m out! do so now! I can’t wait for it myself as As well as new products, every I’m just back from Chelsea Flower Show year Chelsea Flower Show launches and my thoughts are firmly on all things new plants. This year’s winner was floral! Not only does Chelsea overflow a dwarf mulberry bush and I think with enthusiasm for the gardening year it is not only going to launch ahead, but for the last seven years I’ve a resurgence of the fruit but also the been fortunate enough to attend the nursery rhyme, ‘Here We Go Round iconic show on the press and VIP day The Mulberry Bush’ to Bill Bailey looked quite the country gent before it opens to the public. a whole new generation.

And after seven years of my The planting theme this year was a continuation on last with lots of ‘interviewing apprenticeship’, it now feels wildflowers and/or weeds (depending on your definition) taking centre stage. totally natural talking to the celebrities Good news for those ‘normal’ gardeners wanting to take inspiration from the and discussing the merits of their own things they see at Chelsea! gardens and what inspires them.

The Artisan Gardens were as stunning as This year was an absolute delight as always – I love them as they tend to provide Sophie Raworth knows her stuff partner and cameraman, Steve Thomas, more attainable ideas for your average garden or was my side-kick and freed me up from the clumsy process of asking for at least sections of it. The World Horse Welfare a photo while trying to persuade a waiting reporter to take the pic with my Garden was my absolute favourite, especially as iPhone. Not cool. it highlighted the plight of the ‘invisible’ horses BBC Radio 2’s Chris Evans was the first to be accosted – and he put up that are abandoned or neglected each year. no fight at all. He was charming, chatty, witty and wonderfully enthusiastic Another garden or ‘installation’ that caught about the show, exhibitors and all the hard work that had gone into it all. He my eye was Miracle Grow’s, ‘The Senses’. was also planning on bagging a bargain It was an incredibly poignant depiction of how at the end of the gardening and being event – as was Sophie outdoors can help Nick Frost is a fern fan Raworth. She’s quite teenagers who feel formidable… in pressured by social media and the consequences that a nice way. Very can bring. It was a fabulous opportunity to show the polite, knowledgeable benefits of spending time in nature – for all of us, about plants and very, not just angst-ridden teenagers. ‘news-reader-ish’.

The Chelsea Chop is a method of pruning Jo Whiley was quite herbaceous plants hard back to encourage a second the opposite – softly flush of blooms but this year it wasn’t the Chelsea spoken, slight and Chop that was making the headlines but rather Deborah Meaden was lots of fun girl-next-doorish. the Chelsea Crunch. The main avenue usually Esther Rantzen enjoyed her day I like her too but if hosts around 20 lavish gardens but this year only Sophie was a buddleia then Jo would be have to be a buttercup. She was eight sponsors had applied for the prestigious places. Apparently forms had also very hot on the horticultural stuff! to be submitted in the same week as Brexit and it is assumed that larger At the other end of the scale entirely was Joan Collins. Openly admitting companies were hedging their bets a bit (pun intended) or at least keeping to having very little interest in gardening but enjoying the day out and the their pounds in their pockets. And coincidentally the sponsors of the show lovely floral displays. And you know what, I have to say (or write), what she itself, M&G Investments, will not be renewing their contract this year. So in lacked in bloomin’ knowledge, she made up 2018, I’m told, there for with grooming knowledge. Boy, was she will be new concepts immaculate. No dirt dare venture under those and developments nails, I can tell you.

– including a brand Nick Frost was in a bit of a hurry, keen to new Grand Pavilion. keep his wife happy but also keen on gardens, The old one is pretty so it turned out, especially ferns. grand, so what the Deborah Meaden was incredibly sociable new one’s going to be and not what I expected – although to be fair, like I can’t imagine but I only asked her for an interview and not to I’m looking forward to invest in a business. She was also impressed by finding out!

58 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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John Sergeant

Joan Collins outshone the flowers!

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CELEBRITY

S OW I N G T H E

S E E DS

The Lightning Seeds’ Ian Broudie talks about his 40 years in music, and why he loves playing in Wales

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‘Liverpool’s still a musical city and there are always new bands coming up. There’s a lot of diversity’

an Broudie, a legend of the local music scene, will bring his own vibrant Mersey sound to make waves at Wales’s newest major sport and music festival this summer.

Broudie is best known as the man behind Three Lions, the football anthem that so nearly swept England to European Championship glory 21 years ago. But his career in music has been so much more than that, and he will be showcasing that back catalogue in August at the Snowdonia Outdoor Festival at Bala, against a twilight backdrop of the shimmering waters of Llyn Tegid and the majestic Berwyn Mountains.

The music will be one of the main draws and the 58-year-old Broudie is looking forward to it: ‘It will be great to be in Wales,’ he says: ‘I used to spend summer holidays in Abersoch with my mum and dad and later I did a lot of work at a music studio in Wrexham.

‘There are a lot of reasons it’s special. There are plenty of connections between Liverpool and Wales and it will be good to get on the stage right down by the water and play. It looks great there and should be a fabulous festival.

‘It’s in the open air and I love these events. Everyone’s up for having a good time so they’re brilliant.’

Broudie sprang to fame at the tail of the 1970s with the band Big In Japan which included Frankie Goes To Hollywood’s Holly Johnson on bass and he has produced albums for a galaxy of Merseysound big names from Echo and the Bunnymen to The Coral and The Zutons.

He began to write as The Lightning Seeds in the late 1980s and by 1994 had to create a band to tour the increasing repertoire he had created in the studio. After a break in the early 2000s he has bounced back again and has stepped up his touring since 2009 with a new band which features his son Riley on guitar.

‘I’m working on a new album at the moment and it should be released next year but I’ll mainly

stick to the old material at the festival which is what I think people want to hear,’ he explains.

‘It’s a long time since I started out in bands but Liverpool is still a musical city and there are always bands coming up.

‘Many cities have lost a bit of their character and uniqueness because they’ve all got the same shops and bars but Liverpool will always have its own identity.

‘I listen to a lot of music and with downloading you’ve got access to everything all the time – it’s a great time to be into music.

‘OK it was fun going to record shops years ago but now you can get everything at the touch of a button and listen to so much whether it’s a radio station in Los Angeles or music from around the world. That has a big impact on how young bands sound and from what I’ve seen around Liverpool in particular, there’s a lot of diversity and a lot happening.’

Broudie is regularly back in Liverpool – he’s an Anfield season ticket-holder and a passionate Red and loves what another passionate man, Jurgen Klopp, has brought to the club.

‘He’s been great. When you look at our net spend over the last two years it’s something like £7 million and where we are is marvellous. We’re really punching above our weight.

‘Klopp’s doing an amazing job and next year we should be a real force. The ground has changed with the new stand and when it’s rocking there it really enhances the atmosphere.’

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 59

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DAYS OUT WE VISIT THE

IRONBRIDGE GORGE

We spend a day at the Ironbridge Museums to find out what all the fuss is about. It’s only a World Heritage Site after all…

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See how the famous Ironbridge was constructed at the new Museum of Iron, or play games at Engenuity

Photography: P. Parker

materials needed to make iron from efore visiting, we knew that the most popular medieval times, right up to the and famous of this museum collection at There are 10 modern steel industry. The kids Ironbridge is Blists Hill – the recreation of museums in (young teenagers) were very interested a Victorian town, complete with period actors, all to visit at in how iron and steel is made, and shops, cafes, horse and cart rides and more – and Ironbridge! some of the historical treasures and Enginuity where kids can investigate science and multimedia exhibits do a great job technology with a huge range of hands-on exhibits bringing Victorian engineering to life. bringing engineering to life. But we found out The star attraction is probably Blists Hill, there is a lot more to explore at Ironbridge. a recreated Victorian town you can wander around We headed straight for Engenuity – a huge hall and talk to the shopkeepers, residents, stable hands packed all kinds of science demonstrations related to and townspeople, all of whom will the industrial age. It was interesting explain the particulars of life 100 to see how parents were as engaged years ago, you can even buy things as their children, just as keen to turn Turn to page 40 to find out more about special with shillings and pence and visit wheels and press buttons! There is a events taking place at ‘Victorians’ in their home. Because lot to explore – you can pull a 10-ton the Ironbridge Museums we are so inundated with American locomotive engine, manage your own this summer movies, it reminded us of a ‘wild west’ water dam system, complete quizzes town, which we realised simply was on interactive table screens, use a a reflection of the age. giant x-ray machine and much more. You can easily All the shops are fun to visit, in particular spend a couple of hours here playing with these the grocery store and pharmacy (with the grisly great educational toys. As a scary bonus, there was dentist’s room!), and the kids were very curious a creepy crawly exhibition that day; we got to hold about all the strange items in the shops. It was a snakes and a tarantula. great day out, but we fell pitifully short of seeing We also visited the newly opened Coalbrookdale even half of what’s on offer here, not to mention Museum of Iron, its launch marked the Ironbridge the riverside walks and visiting the Ironbridge Museum’s 50th anniversary. This is a beautifully itself! We’re very lucky that this hugely significant presented building with displays on three floors, piece of our heritage has been so lovingly brought walking you through a history of the iron industry; to life on our doorstep. from how the local geology provided all the raw Information for visitors The museums are open from 10am-4pm (Blists Hill until 4.30pm) during the summer holidays. A great value annual passport ticket allowing unlimited entry into all ten Ironbridge Gorge Museums costs £25 per adult, £20 for seniors, £15 for children (16 or under), £68 for a family of two adults and all their children, under 5s free.

The Gorge is easily reached via the M54 motorway exiting at Telford junction 4 or 6. Call the Ironbridge Tourist Information Centre on 01952 433 424 or visit www.ironbridge.org.uk

60 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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30/06/2017 12:23

FEATURE

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FESTIFACT 1: The first Glastonbury Festival cost £1 to attend, T-Rex headlined and the price included free milk

he UK festival scene is worth approximately £1.1 billion to the national economy each year and is growing in popularity for both visitors and aspiring organisers.

Currently there are more than 7,000 outdoor events held annually in Britain, and over 1,000 of those are described as festivals. Some are on a massive scale like the world’s biggest and best known at Glastonbury,

while others bring villages and small communities together for more specialised celebrations.

Either way – festivals are big business. Many involve music and in 2015, 27 million people attended a live music event in the UK, and 3.7 million of those were at festivals.

According to market researchers Mintel, music festivals and concerts have been the fastest growing area of leisure

spending over the last five years.

They estimat that 40 per cent of Brits went to at least one event, spending £2.1 billion collectively.

So it is no wonder more and more are cropping up every summer. But not only do festivals make sound business sense, they bring out the feelgood factor in all of us – the good-natured reputation of your average festival goer shines through, even in adversity.

Who can forget the iconic images of crowds enjoying an unavoidable mud-bath at Glastonbury, or closer to home the heroic local farmers towing cars out of the bog at Portmeirion’s Festival Number 6… it seems that no matter what happens during the event itself – people head to a festival determined to enjoy themselves and won’t let much stop them!

Why not join them in 2017…

Lanterns at Shrewsbury Folk Fest

Bastille play to a jubilant crowd

BEST FEST FOR...

O

Great crowds at Bluedot festival

MUSIC

bviously there are a lot of types of music and festivals that cater for each of them, but Festival No 6 has grown so much in popularity since it began five years ago that this year it made it on to several top ten festival lists, alongside the likes of Camp Bestival, Glastonbury and Latitude. Why? Mainly because it is a little bit different and brings together so many genres

and so many people who just want to soak up the festival vibe in the beautiful quirky town of Portmeirion.

Festival No.6 is a bespoke banquet of music, arts, culture and gastronomy, taking place over the weekend of the 7th to 10th September in the surrounding whimsical Italianate architecture of the village.

Constructed between

FESTIFACT 2: Only one festival has its own inflatable church. Bestival’s portable ‘love-in’ lets you get married on site!

Summer is here, school’s out, the days are long and the sun is trying its British best. It’s time to celebrate – and what better way than by taking in a local festival or two. Across our region there are dozens, celebrating everything from music to sports and science to literature so we have put together this festival feature to get you in the mood for music, food and drink, flowery tents and chemical toilets…

1925 and 1975 by maverick architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, Portmeirion is a wonderfully bizarre and elaborate interpretation of a Mediterranean villa, nestled in the stunning mountains and forests of North Wales overlooking the expansive estuarial waters of the Irish Sea. Where better to settle back and enjoy a rich blend of tunes from

the likes of this year’s headliners; The Flaming Lips, Mogwai and Bloc Party.

The main bands will be backed by performances from The Cinematic Orchestra, Wild Beasts, Rag’n’Bone Man, Laura Mvula, Kate Tempest, Arab Strap, The Cribs, and many more yet to be confirmed.

To mark the 50th anniversary of the original summer of love

62 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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As far as festival locations go, No6 has them all beat

and one of the world’s most influential albums, the Sgt Pepper-themed Carnival No.6 will weave its way through the village to the main stage in time for the 70-piece Royal Liverpool Philharmonic and The Bootleg Beatles to join forces for an amazing performance of Sgt Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band in full.

Festival No.6 is also delighted to be the only festival in the country to have been chosen to host part of the official Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay Procession. The

baton will make its way through the village and festival on Friday afternoon, on its long journey to the Gold Coast of Australia.

The festival’s arts and culture programme includes Irvine Welsh on Trainspotting and Acid House, Kevin Allen on Tin Town, Maxine Peake curating her own stage, Charlotte Church, Goldie, Steve Davis and of course the return of No.6 favourites, the Brythoniaid Welsh Male Voice Choir. The festival has unveiled an unparalleled comedy bill including Adam Buxton, brilliant Irish stand-up, musician and

playwright David O’Doherty, panellist extraordinaire Henning Wehn, sketch-show maestros Cardinal Burns, comedian, actor and broadcaster Nish Kumar, Phil Kaye, Lolly Adefope and more.

There is genuinely something for everyone here making Festival No6 the new staple of the hot summer events calendar. www.festivalnumber6.com

No6 revellers know how to party!

FESTIFACT 4: Festival goers in 2015 were 54 per cent male and 46 per cent female

FESTIFACT 3: The area around Chelmsford sees a 27 per cent increase in the sale of fake tan in the run up to the V Festival

FESTIVALS FEATURE

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 63

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25. 26.27.28august2017

Loudon Wainwright III ERIC BIBB Faith, Folk & Anarchy Oysterband Skipinnish The Young’uns SARAH JAROSZ Le Vent Du Nord plus many more

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Ceilidh Bands Concerts Morris Teams Workshops P@ndemonium! Children’s Festival refolkus for 11-20 year olds Craft Fair Great Campsite Caterers Singarounds & Sessions E K T C I Real Ale & Cocktail Bars NOW

!

E

O

N S AL

Shrewsbury Folk Festival @shrewsburyfolk

site more acts to be announced! see web

for latest...

www. shrewsburyfolk festival .co.uk

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SCIENTISTS

BEST FEST FOR...

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off-shoot, the Planet Field.

Experts will explore fascinating topics including space travel, volcanoes, climate change, spider silk, black holes, the search for extra-terrestrial intelligence and more.

As well as Jodrell Bank’s own Tim O’Brien, the science programme is bolstered by the BBC’s Dallas Campbell discussing, amongst other things, how to leave earth, Helen Czerski celebrating the oceans of this blue planet and Chris Lintott from The Sky at Night.

Bluedot will also celebrate 40 years since the Voyager spacecraft set off on its iconic journey to the gas giant planets.

Monica Grady, Professor of Planetary and Space Sciences at the Open University, will review the achievements of Voyager and look forward to new voyages beyond earth. There will also be a (currently top-secret) project paying homage to Voyager’s Golden Records carrying messages from humanity to ‘anyone’ who might be out there. Music features heavily at

the family-friendly event and the aptly named Astronomy join headliners Orbital, Pixies and Alt J, along with other internationally renowned acts including Soulwax, Ezra Furman and The Boyfriends, Warpaint, Andrew Weatherall, Goldfrapp, Vitalic, Hawkwind, Mr Scruff and more. ‘We’ve raised the bar across the music, arts and culture spectrum and with more great acts and exciting announcements still to come,’ says festival director Ben Robinson. www.discoverthebluedot.com

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lake, and 10,000 expected over the weekend.

The music line up will be top class pop with the Lightning Seeds headlining alongside multi-million sellers Scouting for Girls along with Toploader and Cast. According to the organisers, it was the perfect location for the event because North Wales had already developed a reputation as the adventure capital of Europe and had been named among the top places in the world to visit in 2017 in Lonely Planet’s annual Best in Travel list.

The event will be held on a site at Gwernhefin Farm and is the brainchild of top live events

organisers KNOW? Brand The Isle of Wight Events, the has the most company carnivals per behind the capita in the spectacularly successful UK Keswick Mountain Festival.

There are trail runs over distances from three to 25km, open water swims on the lake and outdoor activities including hiking, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, swimming, climbing, mountain biking with climbing walls and airbags set up and bushcraft talks and handson activities. www.snowdoniaoutdoorfestival.co.uk

Jody Hartley

FESTIFAC5 1: Bar staff at the Isle of Wight Festival can pull 35,000 pints of beer an hour

aking place from 7th-9th July at Jodrell Bank, the Cheshire observatory at the cutting edge of humanity’s quest for knowledge, Bluedot is a three-day festival of discovery that fuses a complex mix of artists, speakers, scientists and performers into an event unlike any on earth.

The festival promises a journey of scientific discovery through its acclaimed Dot Talks series, interactive family science shows and the return of the hands-on Star Field with its new

BEST FEST FOR...

SPORT

f you prefer to spend your time in the great outdoors with action-packed adventure rather than chilling out to top tunes – why not check out a new North Wales festival for 2017 that aims to combine the two?

The Snowdonia Outdoor Festival will bring sports and music together on the picturesque shores of Llyn Tegid at Bala over the weekend of 12th and 13th August.

It will feature a packed programme including trailrunning, hiking, canoeing, paddle boarding, swimming, climbing, mountain biking and more with camping for over 3,000 on the site alongside the

DID YOU

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 65

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B E S T O F. . .

THE REST

FESTIVALS

Whatever you’re in to, there’s a festival to match so why not expand your horizons and try somewhere new?

BEST FEST FOR… BOOKLOVERS The line-up has been announced for Gladfest, the literary festival which takes place at Gladstone’s Library in Hawarden, 1st3rd September. Exciting names this year include TV historian Diarmaid MacCulloch, multi award-winning author Sarah Perry, broadcaster Sally Magnusson, writer and editor Lauren Elkin, journalist and biographer Kathryn Hughes and BBC official historian, Jean Seaton. Across the festival weekend there will be a free-entry market place filled with local designers and contemporary crafts, a bookstall stocking reads from festival speakers and the Food for Thought café open throughout the festival.

Gladfest has also programmed a range of free book-themed arts and craft activities for all the family, curated by InterAct Imaginatons, so kids can go free! The festival prides itself in bringing together award-winning, internationallyrenowned and breakthrough writers in a beautiful Grade I listed building for a wonderfully eclectic weekend. For more details visit www.gladfest.co.uk.

BEST FEST FOR… CLASSICAL When it comes to festivals and musical celebrations we can’t forget the rich heritage and global allure of a proper Welsh Eisteddfod and this year is no exception with the National Eisteddfod taking place on the beautiful isle of Anglesey. With over 900 events and activities across the Maes at Bodedern throughout the week from 4th-12th August, there are simply to

many musical masterpieces and community celebrations to list here with a packed programme that will appeal to all ages and all walks of life. Find out more by visiting www.eisteddfod.wales BEST FEST FOR… FOLK Renowned as one of the country’s premier events, Shrewsbury Folk Festival is back from 25th-28th August with what promises to be an even more impressive line-up than in previous years.

Featuring some of the most established artists from the UK alongside acts celebrating folk traditions from across the world, the festival vows to take you on a voyage of discovery, bringing you ever-changing musical colours with their breathtaking performances. The relaxed atmosphere gives you time

to explore festival site at the West Midlands Showground with its four sound stages, dance tent and specialist venues for children’s and youth festivals. There are shops, caterers, bars, craft fair, free buses into Shrewsbury town centre and a great campsite. www. shrewsburyfolkfestival.co.uk BEST FEST FOR… HIPPIES No festival listing would be complete without an event to celebrate all things alternative and in the heart of the Cheshire countryside there is one such festival. One Tribe describes itself as ‘an immersive cocoon of energy that radiates outward through the beautiful backdrop of the Cholmondeley Castle Estate in Cheshire. With a constant swell of sights, sounds and tactile pleasures over a 5 day/24 hour fusion of music, arts and culture that’s been lovingly curated to transcend age, gender and break down barriers to provide an indelible mark of positivity and change.’ Got it?

If not check out the website for more details. This is a non-profit, non-corporate event that runs from 3rd-8th August aimed at raising funds for a charity that supports animals around the world. With lots of healing. www.onetribefestival.org BEST FEST FOR… ELECTRICITY Nowhere is the wonder of modern electricity exploited quite so effectively than at Surf Snowdonia, the revolutionary world-first inland surf lagoon. Electric Wave is a family-friendly festival packed full of music, fun, comedy, food and happiness set in the Conwy Valley on the 14th16th of July. Acts include Bez, Cream, General Levy and the UK Chilli Peppers.

With comedy, DJ workshops, slacklining, a skate ramp, climbing and much more! www.surfsnowdonia.com

FESTIFACT 6: Over 60 sheep are ‘painted’ pink at Latitude Festival in Suffolk every year (a completely harmless dyeing process)

BEST FEST FOR… ALL THINGS WOOD! Now in its 17th year WoodFest is a celebration of all things wood, located in the heart of North Wales, between Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th July. Spread over 30 acres the festival showcases a variety of wood-related activities, crafts and forest industries.

Timber professionals and competitors from around the world come together to compete in a range of skilled competitions including pole climbing, chainsaw carving, axe racing, wood chopping and logging skills as well as extreme mountain biking. As evening falls WoodFest Rocks brings music to keep the timberloving visitors partying long into the night. www. woodfestcountryshow.co.uk

66 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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August 20 - 27 Awst 2017 Y Tabernacl, Machynlleth, Powys, SY20 8AJ www.machynllethfestival.co.uk - 01654 703355

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FLOWER SHOWS FEATURE

BLOOMIN’ MARVELLOUS It’s that time of year when gardens burst into life, bringing with them the muchanticipated sights and scents of the summer. If you are one of the many millions who are cheered by a beautiful bouquet of blooms, why not get out and celebrate all things floral at one of the regions world-renowned flower shows? With the RHS at Tatton and the famous Shrewsbury Flower Show on our doorsteps as well, this region is spoilt for choice so check out the horticultural havens to be visited this season

TATTON

S See the region’s garden designers showcase their unique ideas and innovation

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rban gardening is now more important than ever and the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Flower Show at Tatton Park in Cheshire will be celebrating this in 2017 throughout the event which runs from July 19th-23rd.

See inspirational planting

Visitors will see inspirational ways to green up grey spaces and help create happier, healthier and more sustainable cities, as well as combatting some of the biggest environmental challenges facing us today. The entire event is a celebration of our wonderful gardens and also embraces the fact that gardens and plants are not only essential for the environment but make us feel better and healthier.

Among the weird and wonderful show gardens on display, local landscapers and horticulturalists from across the Shire Magazine patch will feature their creations for the crowds to admire. ● The 2101 garden by Wigan design team Warnes-Mcgarr features in the ‘Future Spaces’ category and depicts a garden of the future designed to cope with growing air temperatures. ● Stockport design duo Dan Newbury and Martin Williams showcase ways to transform small, bare urban spaces into thriving, multi-functioning gardens with The Live Garden, which features a living wall a concealed cinema screen, and uses a live audio feed to capture the sounds of local wildlife.

John Everiss returns to RHS Tatton for United Utilities with

●

Get ideas for your green spaces

the Slow the Flow Garden to tackle flash-flooding. The attractive, stylish and practical garden harnesses, conserves and slows the flow of rainfall in urban spaces. ● The ‘Remember Me’ Garden, by local designers Jane Bingham and Penny Hearn for the MidCheshire Hospitals Charity, will feature dementia-friendly ideas such as growing plants popular in the 1960s and 1970s to evoke childhood memories. ● The Bus Stop Boulevard, a 25m long street scene, will feature six bus shelters created by communities and designers from Greater Manchester.

Get ideas and inspiration for your garden whatever size it is!

The Bruntwood Experiment, by show sponsor Bruntwood, features resilient plants that thrive in complex, changing and often forgotten urban areas. Results of the ‘experiment’ will be used to inform the replanting of the garden at Bruntwood’s, Alderley Park campus. Nick Mattingley, director of RHS Shows comments: ‘The show is full of horticultural ideas and inspiration, as well as thousands of plants to buy so that everyone

●

Get tips and advice from pros

can come along and get gardening!’ For more info visit www.rhs.org.uk/tatton.

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FEATURE

& MUCH MORE THAN JUST FABULOUS FLOWERS

SHREWSBURY

Celebrate an incredible 130 years of The Shrewsbury Flower Show!

One of the UK’s best loved shows is back bigger and better than ever

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hen it comes to celebrating flowers and plants the exceptional displays and installations at Shrewsbury Flower Show are some of the country’s best.

This event is a firm fixture in any gardener’s diary and is now the longest running flower show in the country, marking its 130th year in 2017.

Championing the excellent growing conditions found in Shropshire, it’s no wonder the two-day floral extravaganza held across 11th and 12th of August draws thousands of visitors from near and far. And this year’s show is set to be no exception. There will be show gardens to admire from hundreds of entrants, from communities and charities to professionals and celebrities.

TV gardeners Joe Swift and Penny Meadmore will put in an appearance and host a Q&A to answer your gardening queries. As one of the BBC’s main presenters on gardening shows, Joe has been gardening since he left school and is a regular columnist for The Times as well as having written three books himself.

Penny is a Royal will all be available as well as Horticultural Society awardballoon modelling and face winning garden designer painting free of charge. with a degree in botany and In the main arena a long a favourite garden expert on list of acts will perform during BBC radio as well as having the show, one highlight being fronted several gardening the Royal Signals Motorcycle shows for television.

Display Team ‘The White But above and beyond Helmets’ – acknowledged as the natural attractions, that the oldest, best known and will bring a splash most accomplished The two-day floral of colour to Quarry motorcycle extravaganza from Park in Shrewsbury, display team 11th-12th of August this show is also in the country. draws thousands known for its wide Celebrating their of visitors from variety of alternative 90th anniversary near and far entertainment, this year, their making it the perfect day our death-defying feats and for families and friends, not stunts will leave audiences on just the green-fingered! the edge of their seats.

The children’s area As evening falls, the show promises to be packed full offers entertainment on its of fun, with exciting and main stage with the London free activities for people of all ages. Mr Boom will be bringing his unique and wonderful style of musical entertainment and there will be a magic show as well as the Monster Gardening Show and an array of weird and wonderful animals to meet thanks to Walford College and Chucks n Ducks.

Bouncy castles, climbing walls, football and circus skills

Community Gospel Choir set to provide the entertainment on Friday night.

Celebrity chef and Masterchef favourite John Torode will be starring at the show and Saturday night’s music will be provided by The Overtones while both evenings will be drawn to a close with a magnificent firework display, synchronised to music. With all this going on it is hard to remember that The Shrewsbury Flower Show started off life as just that – but has been so well established, and expanded to attract visitors of every variety, for so many years that it is quite simply a Shropshire fixture not to be missed. www. shrewsburyflowershow.org.uk

Live music acts entertain the summer crowd July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 69

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FLOWER SHOWS

GETTING COMPETITIVE

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T H E T R U E P OW E R O F F LOW E R S Turn to page 129 to win tickets to great shows & events!

s blooms blossom throughout the summer, gardeners and horticulturalists will be getting competitive during the Royal Welsh Show.

Alongside the agricultural and livestock elements of this massive three-day event held from July 24th to 27th at the Royal Showground in Llanelwedd, crowds in their thousands are expected to visit the flower marquee to admire the wonderful (and sometimes wild), submitted entries.

It forms a massive part of the experience and with over 120 distinct classes to be judged, brings a burst of colour and scent to the marquee that is sure to appeal. The categories range from the extremely specific, such as ‘Vegetable grown in a pot not exceeding 15cms’ and ‘One vase of five stems of mixed sweet peas’ to the weird and wonderful classes like ‘Depict an animal out of vegetables and fruit’ or ‘Psychedelia: A modern/abstract/contemporary exhibit.’

Basically there will be something for everyone, young and old, to admire whether a flawlessly formed fruit, a perfectly precise petunia or a vase of various vegetables. Make sure you take a look. Enjoy!

For more information visit www.rwas.co.uk

Last minute touches are key

Getting creative with veg

Experience sweet pea precision

Blooms to wow the judges

A sense of humour is a must!

Fruit and floral combinations

Giving a bouquet of flowers as a gift or to say thank you is increasing popular – but did you know that that secret meanings lie behind the blooms you choose?

As we celebrate all things floral with our flower shows this summer, Andrea Jones, the creative force behind Luna Flowers in Rhos-on-Sea, explains the associations behind some of our favourite flowers

Flower association dates back to the ancient Greeks, Romans, Egyptians and Chinese. Poets and playwrights such as Shakespeare made use of meanings, while blooms in religious paintings, such as roses or peace lilies, offer their own messages. In Japan the practice of giving flowers different meanings is called hanakotoba while the Victorians dubbed it floriography. These coded messages allowed people to express feelings that otherwise could not be spoken – recipients would send a flower or posy back as a reply. Rosemary symbolised longing and absence, petunia could mean anger while rhododendron signified danger – and the spider flower was an enticement to eloping!

What do your bouquets say about you?

Varieties of flowers and what they mean…

Anemone represents anticipation, so a perfect flower for bridal bouquets or Valentine’s Day Calla lilies symbolise purity and innocence, so are often chosen for weddings, at christenings or confirmations Carnations say love and pride – but avoid striped versions if you are superstitious as these represent refusal!

Chrysanthemums represent fidelity, optimism, joy and a long life Daffodils mean regard and chivalry as well as new beginnings and eternal life. Make sure to use more than one bloom, though, as a single stem is said to represent unrequited love Freesias represent innocence as well as thoughtfulness Gerbera is a bold flower that represents cheerfulness Hydrangea represents heartfelt emotions and to express gratitude Peony represents happy life, good health and prosperity Roses have long symbolised love and beauty and also say wisdom, intrigue, devotion sensuality and timelessness Andrea Jones is a qualified florist who trained at the Welsh College of Horticulture. She now runs Luna Flowers, in Colwyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea. www.luna-flower.com

70 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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Less than 2 miles from Powis Castl e

Home & Garden Centre • Country Store • Restaurant • Seasonal Events • Foodhall FA M O U S B R A N D S , G R E AT V A LU E

coedydinas.co.uk Welshpool, SY21 8RP

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Friday 11th & Saturday 12th August 2017

Shropshire Horticultural Society Charity Number: 501564

Flowers, Fireworks & Entertainment

LONDON COMMUNITY GOSPEL CHOIR

TV GARDENER PENNY MEADMORE

CELEBRITY CHEF JOHN TORODE

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THE OVERTONES

London Community Gospel Choir The Overtones The Royal Signals Motorcycle Display Team – The White Helmets Spectacular Fireworks Dedicated Children’s Area Shrewsbury Male Voice Choir and Of One Accord Massed Bands Floral Displays Arena Entertainment Premier Showjumping Food and Drink

Tickets: Adult Advance £25 Over 60’s Advance £23 Children aged 15 and under Free Admission* Membership: Adult from £45 Children £5 *when accompanied by an adult

Call us on: 01743 234050 or visit www.shrewsburyflowershow.org.uk 071_SHIRE_JA2017.indd 1

30/06/2017 12:33

THE WEST ARMS

RESTAURANT

| BAR | STAY OVER | FUNCTIONS

Situated in the beautiful Ceiriog Valley, only 20 minutes from Wrexham.

Enjoy a scenic drive to the 16th Century West Arms, where you can partake in coffee, a glass or two of something special, lunch, afternoon tea or dinner by one of our open fires. Finish it off with an overnight stay and enjoy a traditional Welsh breakfast the next morning.

covers the Magazine in r holidays best spots fo out s a line ab u p o r D . s Wale ! ur hot spot o y g in r tu fea ing@

We are surrounded by the beautiful Berwyn Mountains with a magnificent backdrop, perfect for a special wedding.

rtis Email: adve e.co.uk shiremagazin 661270 Tel: 01691

Take a look at our website www.thewestarms.co.uk for more information on Golf Packages, local activities & special offers T: 01691 600 665 E : info@thewestarms.co.uk

AMPLE FREE PARKING

Find our gift shop at the summit of the famous Horseshoe Pass, adjacent to the Ponderosa Café, LL20 8DR

SHOPPING WITH ALTITUDE! • Welsh Crafts and Gifts for all the family • Welsh lovespoons • Premier Welsh Clothing • Silver and Pewter Celtic Jewellery • Clogau Gold • Gothic Figurines • & Much More!

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Tel: 01978 790 445

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• Email: orders@shopintheclouds.com • www.shopintheclouds.com 30/06/2017 12:37

TOWN VISIT

BEARTOWN The large Cheshire town of Congleton is home to around 90,000 people, many shops, pubs, mills, parks, a theatre, a football club, a museum… and according to legend, the occasional angry bear!

CONGLETON

THE BEAUTY OF THE

Today the local football team, Congleton Town FC, are known as the Bears and the town itself is referred to as Beartown but the only remaining beasts in the area are the topiary creatures found in parks and roundabouts on occasion.

A thriving textile industry grew in the area from the reign of Edward I onwards when permission to build the town’s first mill was granted and it became a vital player in the textile industry – specifically producing leather gloves, lace and silk – and more mills quickly scattered the horizon. While industry faded away, the buildings remain in some places providing a reminder of the town’s once prominent past.

Congleton may not be known for its sporting prowess but it’s actually home to one of the oldest recorded rugby union clubs in the country, dating back to 1860, which also holds the world record for the longest continuous game of rugby ever played at 24 hours, 30 minutes and six seconds long. Other sporting groups include the football team, two cricket clubs, The beautiful and quaint Little Moreton Hall two golf clubs – with one nine-hole and one 18itting on the banks of the River Dane and the edge of the Would hole course, and a very Macclesfield Canal, the town boasts a proud industrial you like to active running club, the past ever since it was granted its first charter in 1272 see your town Congleton Harriers and was listed in the Domesday Book as Cogeltone. The in print? Get in which organise an origins of the name are not definite, but some say it derives touch and tell annual half marathon from the old Norse word ‘kang’ which meant ‘a bend’ and us why! and meet weekly at the the Old English word for a settlement, ‘tun’. leisure centre – also home to Congleton Park in bloom Long before then there were early settlers and both Stone countless smaller clubs and groups.

Age and Bronze Age artefacts have been found, but the town came The town enjoys pleasant natural surroundings including into its own on the back of another’s disaster. After Viking invaders Congleton Park along the River Dane and Town Wood on the edge destroyed nearby Davenport, Congleton by default became the of the park which has been designated a Grade A Site of Biological main market town for the area and has remained so to this day.

Interest in recognition of its many nationally important plants. The The location of the town today was established after a more natural Congleton Paddling Pool is a popular attraction in the summer disaster in 1451, when the River Dane flooded, destroying a number months and the lake developed from a former quarry at nearby of buildings, the town’s mill and wooden bridge. Once the river had Astbury Mere Country Park offersa great spot for fishing and sailing. been safely diverted, the town was rebuilt on the spot it occupies now.

Culturally the town benefits from the 300-seat Daneside Theatre, Clonter Opera Theatre based in the neighbouring ABOUT THAT BEAR... village of Swettenham Heath and Congleton Museum can be Congleton became best known during found on Market Square. It hosts an annual food and drink the 1620s when it became notorious festival promoting locally-sourced produce and a renowned for violent sports with bear-baiting jazz and blues festival. Nearby the striking ancient homes of and cockfighting popular in the town.

Capesthorne Hall and the timbered Little Moreton Hall are well Large crowds visited from across the worth a visit and the riverside country to watch the brawling bears and walks, cycleways and ruins at the townsfolk made the controversial Mow Cop Castle are worth decision to invest money it had saved exploring. Together with the to buy a new bible on a more aggressive town’s bars and restaurants, bear instead. Luckily the move paid Congleton draws visitors off as the income from the increased from far and wide as well spectators paid back in to the fund as maintaining a growing several times over, but the legend of population delighted to call Congleton selling a bible to buy this Cheshire town home. Jubilee Pavilion in Congleton Park a bear has remained a popular one.

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CONGLETON CONTACTS Congleton Harriers, meet at the leisure centre, Worrall St, Congleton CW12 1DT Tel: 01260 387716 www.congleton-harriers.co.uk Daneside Theatre, Park Rd, Congleton CW12 1DP Tel: 01260 278481 www.danesidetheatre.co.uk Clonter Opera Theatre, Swettenham Heath, Trap Rd, Congleton CW12 2LR Tel: 01260 224514 www.clonter.org Capesthorne Hall, Congleton Rd, Siddington, Macclesfield SK11 9JY Tel: 01625 861221 www.capesthorne.com

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 73

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Standing majestically in the heart of the beautiful Conwy Valley, with the foothills of the Snowdonia range as a dramatic backdrop, a warm welcome awaits you here at Maenan Abbey.

Our 14 bedrooms are all individually designed and incorporate Four Poster rooms with jacuzzis, two bedroomed family suites and a flexible mixture of double and twin rooms.

After a long day exploring some of the many attractions that the area has to offer you can unwind in our friendly bar or relaxing lounge.

www.maenanabbey.co.uk Tel 01492 660247 Maenan Abbey Hotel, Maenan, Llanrwst, LL26 0UL

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Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Breaks Available TWO nights ~ £135 per person THREE nights ~ £195 per person (£15 supplement if including a Saturday)

SEVEN nights ~ £395 per person

30/06/2017 12:40

COASTAL TOWN VISIT

You’d be MAD not to…

K AT

IE

‘I live nearby and I like that you can go to the sea, go shopping, go out for dinner, just about everything, and the beach is beautiful!’

GINI

PORTHMADOG

With its harbour, sandy beaches and mountain views, Portmadog is Wales’s hidden gem

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nce a famous home of slate production and a hub of export across the world, the 19th century town of Porthmadog is as vibrant today as it was at the height of the industry.

While the slate business has declined, this pretty centre has developed to become an important shopping base for the surrounding area and a popular tourist destination.

This is mainly due to its excellent location as the base from which to explore Snowdonia – 840 square miles of the country’s most breathtaking National Park. Also situated at the end of the Ffestiniog Railway, it attracts steam fans from far and wide and music lovers will recall when the National Eisteddfod was held at Porthmadog in 1987.

It is dominated on one side by a mountain known as

The beach at Blackrock Sands

‘Moel y Gest’ which towers 262 metres above the town. On the other side it is flanked by the wide expanse of the Glaslyn estuary, renowned as a haven for migrating birds and wildlife.

A CULTURAL HUB Porthmadog is a bustling town, full of quirky, individual shops and tempting places to eat.

It has a strong and proud heritage, culture and community.

The Welsh language is a key part of its identity. It is commonly spoken here and its people are particularly warm and friendly.

While the majestic Snowdon provides a stunning backdrop, this once ancient seaport is rich in maritime history as well as being within easy reach of all of the main tourist attractions of Snowdonia and a coastline with beaches second to none.

Steam railway buffs are drawn to Porthmadog to enjoy both the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways.

Jump on a train at either end of the town, enjoy the mountain scenery and relive the golden age of steam with these wonderful and relaxing rail journeys.

PORTHMADOG CONTACTS Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway, Harbour Station, Porthmadog, Gwynedd LL49 9NF www.festrail.co.uk Porthmadog Golf Club, Morfa Bychan, Gwynedd, Porthmadog LL49 9UU 01766 513828 www.porthmadog-golf-club.co.uk Porthmadog Sailing Club, The Harbour, Porthmadog LL49 9AY 01766 513546 www.sailing-club.org Glaslyn Leisure Centre, Stryd Y Llan, Porthmadog LL49 9HW 01766 512711 www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru Welsh Highland Heritage Railway, The Station, Tremadog Road, Porthmadog LL49 9DY www.whr.co.uk

Beaches, mountains, and steam trains; Portmadog has it all!

‘We’re on holiday exploring Wales, and we’ve come into town to do our shopping. We’re from Devon, and find the scenery really similar, great for walking.’

Another feature not to be missed is found if you approach Porthmadog from the south, along the famous ‘Cob’. This grand embankment scheme was originally built to form the deep harbour for great sailing ships and The Cob also carries the railway initially built to carry the vast quantities of slate from the quarries to the harbour.

It was the ambitious brainchild of W.A. Maddocks, after whom the town was named as it translates as ‘Madog’s Port’.

Located just on the outskirts of Porthmadog, the beach at Blackrock Sands stretches for miles and is a haven of peace and tranquillity, a truly beautiful place to get close to the sea, attracting swimmers, watersports fans and lovers of a good view. T. E Lawrence, of Lawrence of Arabia fame once lived nearby and the 14th century poet Shelley is reputed to have regularly visited – it is easy to imagine both cultural figures being inspired by such an idyllic spot. The clear waters attract repeat visitors – and not just of the human kind as returning osprey, turtles and migrating dolphins have also identified Porthmadog as an ideal holiday haven worth coming back to again and again.

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‘My daughter Sarah-Jane and I set up Crafts North Wales two years ago – everything here is from local craftspeople. Visitors love to pick up something made locally!’

ROB AND ALFIE

Rob says: ‘Porthmadog is really dog friendly. You can go anywhere, and some places will even give them a treat.’

R I TA

‘This town is filled with lots of lovely people, and great charities working to help others.’

DOR

EEN

‘I just love the quaintness of it all, like the new little barber shop.’

H, KSID ESH DEE DIN , N A SRIK

‘We’re here to go to the beach, and see the mountains.’

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 75

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explore & discover

family fun…

RSPB Conwy

rspb.org.uk/conwy 01492 584091 LL31 9XZ

Duration 1 Hour 2 Hour

Adult £ 10.00 £ 16.00

RSPB Lake Vyrnwy

rspb.org.uk/lakevyrnwy 01691 870278 SY10 0LZ

nature together on our reserves

this summer

RSPB South Stack

rspb.org.uk/southstack 01407 762100 LL65 1YH

RSPB Ynys-hir

rspb.org.uk/ynys-hir 01654 700222 SY20 8TA

ILlun/Image: David Tipling (rspb-images.com). 830-2289-16-17. Mae’r Gymdeithas Frenhinol er Gwarchod Adar (RSPB) yn elusen gofrestredig Lloegr a Chymru rhif 207076, yr Alban rhif SC037654. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is a registered charity.England and Wales no. 207076, Scotland no. SC037654.

Enjoy some

Child £ 5.00 £ 8.00

• Daily trips from New Quay, Ceredigion, Wales, SA45 9NW • Dogs welcome Group discounts Ask for details •

All photographs taken by our skippers during recent trips

Check us out on YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCIECu-AuA2teYZM88CFAz2g

Tel 01545 560 800 / 375 Email info@newquayboattrips.co.uk Contact Jonathan Evans

www.newquayboattrips.co.uk 076_SHIRE_JA2017.indd 1

FIND US ON

30/06/2017 12:48

WILDLIFE A DAY OUT

DOLPHIN SPOTTING Shire Magazine heads to the Welsh coast for a day out with the local wildlife…

I

Pictures: P. Parker

n west Wales, Cardigan Bay and the Ceredigion coast is a haven for wildlife.

In just this 21 mile stretch between Aberdovey and Cardigan there are several nature reserves and marine conservation areas, a testament to the wide variety of bird and animal populations that live there, including the bottlenose dolphin, Atlantic grey seal and porpoises, and numerous species of seabirds including razorbills, cormorants, choughs, guillemots, oystercatchers, shearwaters and peregrine falcons.

These amazing species all come to the sheltered Cardigan bay waters to raise their young. Many of the seabirds return to the same nesting sites every year, and the dolphins come to give birth, allowing their newborn calves a summer to grow in the bay before heading north in the autumn.

From around April to October, 300 dolphins make their home along this coastline. They are much larger than other types of dolphins – making the encounters more thrilling – the adult male can grow to four meters long, weighing up to 600kg. They grow larger to survive in the colder Irish sea temperatures.

Protecting our marine life Jonathan Evans, owner of the Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips, explains how this is a very protected area for wildlife: ‘The Marine Heritage Coast was established in 1992 – it stretches one mile out from land between Tresaith and New Quay and is a reflection of the importance of the marine habitat and heritage to the county and residents. But this is not as much of a big a deal as the ‘Special Area of Conservation’ which was designated in 2004 and extends 20km out and stretches

DID YOU KNOW? A seal can stay submerged for up to eight minutes, but a dolphin can hold its breath for up better look, taking pictures and videos, to 16!

further – between Aberarth which is just North of Aberaeron and Ceibwr Bay which is just South of Cardigan, covering then we continued. over 1,000km square.’

As Jonathan explained to Did you know?

Get up close the passengers: ‘We observe A staggering 29 The best way to see all this a strict code of conduct wildlife at close quarters is to species of whale when amongst the wildlife get out onto the sea. Here you and dolphin have here, and never approach too can cruise past dolphins pods closely, or stay any longer been recorded in the bay, catch a grey seals than 10 minutes so they are in our waters sunning themselves on a warm undisturbed.’ rock, or enjoy the spectacle of On our birds in front of the high seatrip, Ben was our guide, facing cliffs where they make their nests. giving us commentary Tour operators Dolphin Spotting Boat on the wildlife, their Trips offer a one or two-hour cruise, behaviour and the local heading south out of New Quay to travel area. Having grown along the coast as far the little bay of up in Aberaeron and YOU CAN HELP OUR MARINE MAMMALS

Roughly 400 dolphins have been individually identified (by pictures of distinctive marks on their dorsal fins, as unique as fingerprints) by the officers of the Sea Watch Foundation.

This leading marine environmental charity works to improve the conservation of whales, dolphins and porpoises in the seas around Britain and Ireland, and accompany Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips to survey and photograph the sea mammals in Cardigan Bay. Report your sightings via www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk

Ynys Lochtyn, right to the heart of the Marine Heritage Coast, then returning to the New Quay harbour. This bay is one of the main feeding areas for the dolphins so it is rare not to encounter them.

We got lucky straight away, and encountered four dolphins (two adults swimming with two calves) immediately upon leaving the harbour. They swam directly towards the boat, diving and veering to swim alongside at the last minute. At one point, they were within 10 meters of the boat, and it was fantastic to clearly see their eyes and blowholes as they swam past. We stayed alongside them for 10 minutes or so, everyone craning to get a

worked as a fisherman, he knows a thing or two about Cardigan Bay, and was happy to share his knowledge on the bird life, sea mammals life cycle, local geology and where to find the best pubs! Going past some smugglers’ caves we came across a big male seal, lying on his The busy harbour back in the water. Ben explains these coves and at New Quay and rocks are a favourite place for seals to have their pups, being sheltered and safe for mother to give birth on the shore before the pup takes its first swim.

For lovers of marine life this experience is right on the doorstep!

To book your wildlife spotting trip, call 01545 560800 or 560375. www.newquayboattrips.co.uk July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 77

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...GET ON A CANAL BOAT

Hire for a day, a weekend, a week or longer

Visit www.cheshirecatnarrowboats.co.uk Tel 07867 790 195 anytime

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arm friendly welcoming • A traditional, family-run

Spend a day exploring the beautiful Shropshire Union Canal aboard our purpose-built, self-drive Day Boat for family celebrations and team-building days • IdealAll-weather accommodation – up to 10 people • Easy to steer – no experience necessary • From • just £110

inn with home-cooked food, real ales and roaring fires

• Function room available • Dogs welcome too • Free wi-fi

• Set in stunning rural countryside, ideally suited for Snowdonia • Open all day • Food served 12 noon to 3 pm & 6 pm to 9 pm, and all day Sundays LLANDDERFEL, BALA, GWYNEDD, LL23 7RA Tel: 01678 530 205 www.bryntirioninn.co.uk

Tel: 07867 790195 • www.cheshirecatnarrowboats.co.uk

ARBOUR HOTEL BARMOUTH SUMMER BREAKS

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Dee • Personalised Candles, Cards & Lovespoons DayRiver Tickets • Welsh Crafts & Souvenirs • Jewellery • Café Available • Wool Shop • Fishing Tackle, Maggots & Worms

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BROCHURE AVA I L A B L E

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Arbour Hotel, The Promenade, Barmouth, Gwynedd, LL42 1NE Tel: 01341 280459 • www.arbour-hotel.co.uk

30/06/2017 12:51

HOLIDAYS

HOLIDAY HAVEN AT ANCIENT ABBEY

ANGLESEY

Take in the views of the breathtaking local scenery around this stunning holiday park

will have all this on their doorstep as well as all the facilities you would expect from a park of this calibre and so much more.

Children and adults alike will enjoy leisure time spent in this idyllic spot and the amenities include everything you could want from your holiday. The fivestar park is run by a friendly and helpful team and WiFi is available on site. There is a launderette, dogs are welcome and the park has its own picnic area too.

One highlight of Maenan Abbey is the he third addition to the Thornley grounds – the lodges are set in Leisure Parks Group, a family run a beautifully manicured and landscaped business since 1962, the Maenan Abbey garden, itself a Wales In Bloom awardsite offers the perfect secluded hideaway winner and every plot makes the most in the great outdoors. of this horticultural heaven.

The holiday park is delightfully set in A holiday home at the park would beautifully landscaped gardens, hidden give easy access to natural beauty spots from view within the ancient walls of and visitor destinations such the Abbey and adjacent to as Conwy Castle, Bodnant The lodges are the Maenan Abbey Hotel, with Gardens and Gwydyr Forest, all set in beautiful an excellent restaurant and with the Victorian town of ‘Wales in Bloom’ comfortable lounge bar.

Llandudno and picturesque award-winning Situated in the Conwy Valley, Betws-y-Coed only a short landscaped gardens the park is the ideal base to drive away. explore further afield. There are There is a wide selection of new and lovely wooded walks next to tumbling nearly new homes from all the leading streams, close to the picturesque town of manufacturers available and all caravans Betws-y-Coed and near to the gateway have been carefully selected to the Snowdonia National Park. It’s to appeal to all tastes all waiting to be adored and explored.

Snowdonia, and budgets. Visit www.

Owners with a base at Maenan Abbey Conwy Castle thornleyleisure.co.uk and Llandudno are just on the doorstep!

T

T

he isle of Anglesey sits just off the mainland of Wales and no visit to this part of the world would be complete without at least a day trip to the beautiful island.

With an area of 276 square miles, it is the largest island off Wales and the seventh-largest in Britain, connected to the mainland by two bridges that span the Menai Strait; the Menai Suspension Bridge, designed by Thomas Telford in 1826, and the Britannia Bridge.

There is an awful lot to do in a relatively small area, especially over the summer months when it comes alive with events and festivals, and the warm sun makes the rugged coastlines and beautiful beaches irresistible. It’s easy to escape into another time and embrace the rich heritage of the area at one of the historic attractions, including castles, quaint harbours, ancient burial chambers or take in some culture with a visit to the museums and galleries.

The natural landscape is where the island comes into its own with its nature trails, country parks and water-based activities available on all four shores of the island. Cycling is another good way to get around and the coastal path should be explored for the best views across the Irish Sea and beyond. Anglesey is the perfect place to relax, unwind and enjoy a picnic or a paddle. Make sure it’s on your mustdo list next time you’re in North Wales.

With well-designed and perfectly kept gardens, Maenan Abbey provides a tranquil setting July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 79

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HOLIDAYS

L LY N P E N I N S U L A

Soak up the sun and relax pool-side at Morfa Lodge

Poolside paradise

H

oliday home hunters looking for their perfect getaway, in a great location and on a great park, should look at what’s on offer at the wonderful Morfa Lodge Holiday Park.

This family-owned park occupies the perfect spot, nestled in the foothills of the Snowdonia Mountain Range for that ideal family holiday.

The park sits within an area of unspoilt, beautiful parkland and offers excellent facilities while being served by a team of helpful and dedicated staff. Visitors can choose between the two heated outdoor swimming pools, with patio areas and allocated play areas for the children and the shop on the park offers groceries, fresh produce, newspapers and gifts.

Morfa Lodge has great facilities available for guests of all ages and offers free WiFi across the whole site.

Explore Caernarfon Casyle, Bangor and Aber Falls

The Clubhouse has a large family room with an adjacent games room with amusement machines and a pool table, and over 18s can also enjoy the Lounge Bar throughout the day and evenings, with bar meals served daily.

Peak season entertainment provides fun family nights as well as a dance floor ready to be filled with residents and guests while the hog roasts offer a more relaxed evening at Morfa Lodge.

The site is close to Caernarfon Castle, Bangor Cathedral and the stunning Aber Falls making it a great base for exploring this beautiful corner of Wales. There are a range of lodges available to purchase or hire in unrivalled locations, Morfa Lodge can offer the ultimate holiday idyll. www.morfalodge.co.uk

COMMUNITY FEEL FOR FAMILY PARK natural beauty as well as a rich medieval heritage and holidaymakers are never far from the alluring sandy beaches of the North Wales coast.

At Pendyffryn Hall, Lyons has a range of caravans and accommodation to suit every style and budget and residents enjoy a true community feeling with regular BBQs, live entertainment in the club and special events throughout the year. For those that want to invest in their own home from home, the park Pitch up and enjoy the views offers a finance service. he team at Lyons Holiday Parks have The recently developed and extended been making happy holiday memories area for touring caravans and tents, for families for over 90 years so it’s no makes it the ideal base to explore the surprise that they know their stuff when local area, from the bustling town of it comes to the perfect holiday Conwy and its historic castle Visit the local area, to the railway up to the Great in North Wales. from the bustling Pendyffryn Hall Caravan Orme of Llandudno. Go online town of Conwy to Park & Country Club is an to find out more at www. the Great Orme of idyllic and serene holiday lyonsholidayparks.co.uk Llandudno home and touring park sat between the Conwy Valley and the Edwardian village of Penmaenmawr. It offers the perfect location for anyone seeking a room with a stunning view as it is located within the Snowdonia National Park. There are plenty of plots where you can relax on the balcony and absorb the stunning panoramic views overlooking the Menai Straits and Puffin Island.

Anyone visiting the area will discover a spectacular blend of outstanding

T

T

he ever-popular Llyn Peninsula is unmistakable as the distinctive, ‘crooked finger’ of land that juts out into the Irish Sea. You can’t miss it on the map and you shouldn’t miss it if you’re visiting the area. This truly stunning part of the world is protected as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has an exceptional array of coves, headlands, beaches and bays rich in wildlife all linked by the Llyn Coastal Path.

The area is tucked behind the craggy peaks of Snowdonia, with the Irish Sea on one side and Cardigan Bay on the other. It has managed to preserve its own distinct, unspoilt character for the centuries it has been popular. A strong bastion of Welsh heritage, the Llyn locals are fiercely proud of their language and way of life while the peninsula’s feeling of remoteness draws tourists in their thousands every year.

Walkers, wakeboarders and dinghysailors flock to the coves and beaches, while the ancient pilgrimage site of Bardsey Island, at its tip, is a haven for wildlife. Once an area of religious significance in early Christian times the island was allegedly the final resting place of some 20,000 saints and the hill forts, holy wells and tiny churches that scatter the peninsula provide evidence of the one-time spiritual importance of the area. Today, tourists, day trippers, sun-worshippers and nature lovers all hold the Llyn Peninsula in high esteem and most still find a visit uplifting and good for the soul.

80 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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30/06/2017 14:13

HOTEL REVIEW

CASTLE HOTEL, ABERAERON Enjoying freshly caught whitebait and locally made honey ice cream, we visit the fishing village of Aberaeron, which is fast-becoming a foodie haven, and stay in the delightful Georgian Castle Hotel

A

beraeron is an unusual and beautiful Welsh town. This fishing village expanded rapidly when it was connected to the railways as demand for the locally caught fish increased hugely. A new harbour was constructed and the town centre was planned and laid out in 1807 when the Rev Alban Thomas-Jones Gwynne obtained a private Act of Parliament to do so.

seafood festival, several fine restaurants, with locally-caught fish for sale and the unmissable locally-made honey ice cream.

We stayed at the Castle Hotel, a magnificent Garden II Listed Georgian building right in the The architecture of Aberaeron is unique centre of town. Owners Dai and Meinir have in this part of rural Wales, with a Regency worked with interior designer Ann Hughes to style of houses being constructed around create the modern boutique hotel and the decor the harbour and grouped around a central throughout is sleek and well designed. square. John Nash, the architect of London’s Meinir says: ‘We took the hotel over in 2004, Regent Street and Regent’s Park, and creator and entirely remodelled the of the National Trusts nearby interior very recently. It was Llanerchaeron mansion, was huge job, involving installing reputedly involved in the About the painting in a new bar and moving walls the restaurant (left), Meinir explains: ‘This upstairs, but we’re very happy is done by a local with the new look.’ artist, who is originally from Grenada in the Caribbean. We commissioned him to paint the hotel for us, and we really liked the result so we hung it in the dining room for our guests. It says it all about the Castle, really’

design which may explain why Aberaeron has such a distinctive look. It became popular, as did towns like Bournemouth and Brighton, as a Victorian holiday destination, creating a demand for guest houses, restaurants and cafes.

With its fishing heritage, Aberaeron has become is a bit of a foodie town with its own

We had a delicious meal in the hotel restaurant, unsurprisingly, scampi and whitebait are the two favourite dishes. You just cannot beat some deep fried crispy whitebait served with lemon mayonnaise! The rooms are very comfortable and well appointed. Being in the middle of a holiday town do expect early morning deliveries for the cafes and shops nearby, but it wasn’t an issue for us.

To round of our stay, we enjoyed a lovely

Welsh breakfast, complete with local bacon and sausages, and some of the best coffee we’ve tasted in a hotel for quite some time (which can be very hard to come by indeed!) A great ending to a truly wonderful stay in Abaraeron.

THE BILL Starters

Crispy Whitebait served with lemon mayonnaise and brown bread & butter £6.50 Traditional Prawn Cocktail served with Marie Rose sauce and brown bread £6.95 Cheesy Nachos Sharer topped with Welsh cheddar, chilli flakes and served with tomato salsa £4.95 Main Course Scampi, served with peas and chips, £9.95 Grilled Matured 8oz Sirloin Steak served with grilled tomato, mushrooms, peas and chips, £13.95 The Castle Wagyu Gourmet Burger, a 6oz burger topped with bacon and cheese in a crusty ciabatta roll, served with chips and garnish, £12.95

Castle Hotel, Market Street, Aberaeron, Ceredigion, SA46 0AU Telephone: 01545 570 205 www.castle-hotel-aberaeron.co.uk

Events this Summer in Aberaeron Aberaeron Seafood Festival Sunday 9th July Location: Aberaeron Harbour Fishy feasting and a great selection of foods from across Wales. This year is the festival’s twentieth anniversary.

Aberaeron Festival Of Welsh Ponies & Cobs Sunday 13th August Location: Square Field, Cae Sgwar A truly unique event showcasing every aspect of the amazing breed;

the Welsh pony and cob. Exciting events to come and watch throughout the day in the square field, Cae Sgwar, right in the middle of Aberaeron Aberaeron Carnival Monday 28th August Location: Aberaeron Harbour The Aberaeron Carnival takes place every year on the August Bank Holiday Monday. The carnival parade kicks off on the Harbour Quay at 13:45, come along and join in the fun!

82 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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SAIL | WINDSURF | KAYAK | SUP | COASTEER | CRUISE | POWERBOAT

30/06/2017 13:01

RAPID

THRILLS

AT THE NATIONAL WHITE WATER CENTRE

Y

ou can safely experience the thrill of real white water rafting on a true Welsh mountain river at the National White Water Centre. Set on the River Tryweryn in South Snowdonia, the Centre was the first rafting venue in the UK and remains its most popular; the dam-

controlled river levels mean the same raging rapids all year round, which makes it perfect for summer rafting (when other rivers are usually lower).

The centre caters for all ages from 10 years old, no experience is necessary but a sense of

adventure essential! Your crew will be swept through the crashing waves and boulder strewn rapids on this fast flowing Welsh mountain river. Rafting sessions range from a fast paced and exhilarating ride on the grade 3-4 Upper Tryweryn to a relaxing river journey on the grade 2-3 Lower Tryweryn.

Before running the rapids you will be kitted out in safety equipment and wetsuits, and your raft guide will brief you on rafting techniques and

have you practising safety drills in preparation for your rafting adventure.

Rafting Full Session For ages 12 and up, lasting roughly two hours, usually four runs of the river, £66 per person Rafting Taster Session Suitable for small groups and individuals, ages 12 and up, lasting one hour, usually two runs of the river, £35 per person Tryweryn Safari Suitable for families, ages 10 and up, lasting roughly one-and-ahalf hours. This is one 6km run of the river to Bala, £44 per person.

For more information go to www.ukrafting.co.uk

84 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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30/06/2017 13:48

GET ACTIVE

FROM BIKING BASICS TO NAILING JUMPS WITH AL BOND AT ONEPLANET ADVENTURE Harriet Foden shares her experience of learning mountain biking skills with the pros…

W

e’ve all seen the professionals pull off insane lines, massive jumps and cool tricks, and thought ‘hmmm, how hard can it be?’ In my case, very.

Confidence has always been an issue as much as the fear of hurting myself.

Which, I’m guessing, plays a part for most people. So I booked onto the ‘Ladies Core Skills’ course with loads of preconceptions: Will it be too difficult? Am I just going to make a fool of myself? Will I just be a bag of nerves? It felt like Cheri, the instructor, was trying to teach an old dog new tricks. I hadn’t been riding long and had picked up bad habits so everything felt counter intuitive. This showed up most when we were learning on manufactured obstacles but it soon fell into place when they

Great for family days out and group sessions with friends!

were put into context on a real trail but I still had to put more thought into it.

The video feedback was really useful to see what we were doing there and then. Since the course I’ve been out riding more and everything feels

provides a solid base for progression.

For those wanting to push the boundaries even further, there’s a Jumps and Drops course with Al Bond (from RedBull Hardline). This caters for those who want more difficult terrain and to push themselves even further. Al says he will share with you his secrets to nailing jumps, drop-offs and take your riding to the next level.

For biking families, there’s a private family session, for up to two adults and two children.

They even do MTB maintenance courses so you can fix something trailside and keep your bike rolling smoothly. Visit www.oneplanetadventure. com for more.

much better. I’m faster, pumping off rocks to gain more speed and generally feeling more confident. I’m even getting happier with airtime and not getting left behind as much either.

What a confidence boost!

One Planet also run one a similar course for mixed groups which also establishes the basics and

Pictures: Chris Eastwood Media

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY July 8th: Welsh Enduro MTB series: Round 3 August 16th: Demo evening with Orange Mountain Bikes

SWIM SAFE

FREE OUTDOOR WATER SAFETY SESSIONS AT PLAS MENAI

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wim Safe teaches children aged eight years and older on how to stay safe when swimming outdoors, which is often more challenging than swimming in a pool. The programme is supported by Swim Wales and Swim England, the national governing bodies for swimming, and the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution), the charity that saves lives at sea.

The free, hour-long Swim Safe sessions are run by qualified swimming teachers, RNLI lifeguards and supported by a team of trained volunteers. Practical, interactive, educational and fun, each session includes 15 minutes of landbased safety with a lifeguard and then it is into the water for practical tuition

with a swimming teacher. Wetsuits, swim hats and a free goody bag and t-shirt are all provided. Children must be able to swim at least 25 metres to take part. Parents can sign up their children to the free event and help them learn vital safety skills over the summer holidays. Book via www.swimsafe.org.uk.

Since it started in 2013 with just one site in Bude, over 18,000 Swim Safe sessions have taken place across the country and last year over 7,000 children took part. Now in its fifth year, the programme continues to grow and this year Swim Safe sessions will take place at 20 sites across the UK and Ireland. For more info call Plas Menai on 0300 300 3112.

RNLI Key facts

The RNLI charity was founded in 1824 and has saved 139,000 lives since then! Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the UK and Irish coasts and it operates over 230 lifeboat stations with more than 160 lifeguard units. It depends on voluntary donations and legacies to operate. www.rnli.org.uk

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 85

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FOOD & DRINK

By Bryn Williams, of Porth Eirias, Colwyn Bay

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love this time of year, when everything in the garden is growing so fast – I’m constantly inspired by the vegetables and flowers that arrive daily in the kitchen at Porth Eirias restaurant, here in Colwyn Bay, and at Odette’s in London.

Much of our produce comes directly from local growers in North Wales, such as the herbs and vegetables, many of which are raised by my brother.

There’s nothing better than sitting outdoors in your own garden, with food that you’ve grown and cooked yourself. For many, that means a BBQ, with

burgers and sausages plus loads of friends round to enjoy a drink together. For a more elegant meal with friends – such as Sunday lunch, go for something simple that you can cook easily indoors and then bring out to your guests, so you can sit down and enjoy the meal together.

I’ve long championed the quality of Welsh meats, and especially the lamb that’s raised in North Wales by my family and our friends in the farming world. I cooked Welsh salt marsh lamb from Conwy when I took part in the BBC’s first Great British Menu, and lamb is

always on the menu at Porth Eirias and also Odette’s.

All the chefs who took part in the programme along with the judges, raved about the ingredients and wanted to know where the lamb came from. Salt marsh lambs graze on estuary grasses, which are washed by the sea, and produce a fine textured meat.

Otherwise, go for grass fed lamb from the hills of North Wales, which should be on sale now.

I’d urge you to talk to your local butcher and check where your lamb comes from – they should

know the name of the farm where it was raised.

This dish is a classic combination of tender loin of Welsh lamb with bacon, fresh peas, gem lettuce and mint, all of which are in season now.

Make sure you give time for the meat to rest before carving, it really makes a difference to the flavour and texture. Serve up on a large platter for your guests to share, and it’s easy to double the quantities if needed.

Roast Loin of Lamb, Peas, Lettuce & Bacon Season the lamb well with salt and pepper. Place a heavy-based frying pan with a metal handle over a medium heat. When it is hot, add 1tbsp of the vegetable oil. Put the lamb into the pan and colour it all over, turning it so that all the sides brown evenly. Don’t rush this – the dish will have much more flavour and colour if you take your time. Place the lamb in the oven for 8–10 minutes. Remove the lamb from the oven, take it out of the frying pan and set aside to rest for 10–15 minutes.

In another frying pan over a medium heat, add the remaining vegetable oil and cook the bacon until crisp and golden. Add the onion and cook for a further 2 minutes. Cover the bacon and onion with lamb stock and bring to the boil. Add the peas, the butter, the lettuce and the mint, and season with salt and pepper to taste, then immediately remove from the heat.

To serve, slice the lamb, pour the pea and bacon mixture into a large bowl or individual serving dishes, and arrange the lamb slices on top.

2 loins of lamb, weighing 600g in total Salt and pepper 2 tbsp vegetable oil 2 rashers of smoked streaky bacon, diced 1 onion, peeled and diced 500g lamb stock 100g peas, cooked 50g butter 1 gem lettuce, shredded Sprig of mint Preheat the oven to 160°C/325.F/gas mark 3

Taken from Bryn’s Kitchen by Bryn Williams, published by Kyle Books, photography by Jonathan Gregson Bryn is owner patron of Bryn@ PorthEirias Bistro in Colwyn Bay and Odettes Restaurant in Primrose Hill, London www.bryn-williams.co.uk

86 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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FOOD & DRINK PUBS

In our summer holidays edition we’re taking a look at pubs from around the region that are worth lingering in a little longer. Check out the venues we’ve selected below for a range of great pubs where you can stay the night… it is the holidays after all!

CHESHIRE Perched high on the Peckforton Hills, the Pheasant Inn is a paradise for those escaping to the country. This picturesque pub enjoys some of the most magnificent panoramic views across the Cheshire plains.

The George and Dragon Hotel in the heart of Chester is hard to beat for an overnight stay. This old coaching inn with a black and white Tudor style façade, has a modern twist to the interior décor and excellent location.

NORTH WALES Boasting well-appointed en-suite guest rooms, The Bryntirion Inn is the perfect pit-stop when visiting this picturesque region of North Wales. Just four miles from Lake Bala, it dates back to 1695 and provides the perfect base for exploring this magical part of the world thanks to its welcoming atmosphere.

The Black Boy Inn located within the historic town walls of Caernarfon is a luxurious inn hotel with a traditional cosy bar, open fires and a range of individually designed rooms.

SHROPSHIRE For a timeless country pub serving beer from its own microbrewery and using local ingredients wherever possible, check out the White Horse Inn at Clun. There are just four guest rooms to choose from in what is a great destination for people wanting to stay in this beautiful unspoilt part of the country.

Set in the picturesque village of Leintwardine, The Lion at Craven Arms is a quiet country inn with bars, restaurant and rooms offering the perfect place to unwind, enjoy a drink and dinner.

Not only that, but it has just been named best pub in Shropshire!

MID WALES/HEREFORDSHIRE The Crown is a picturesque pub in the centre of Rhayader, Powys with three cosy, recently refurbished, en-suite rooms housed in a classic beamed interior crammed with local memorabilia. Ideally located to make the most of majestic scenery of the nearby Elan Valley.

In the heart of the sleepy village of Dorstone, the award-winning Pandy Inn dates from around 1185. Its eco-friendly timber house was built using traditional methods from the Polish mountains.

TA S T E T E S T

We headed to Jamie Ward’s Traditional Family Butchers, which you’ll find at the Bellis Brothers Farm Shop in Holt, Wrexham and at Harry Tuffins in Churchstoke, Powys, for a taste test!

Dragon Burgers £1.45 One hundred per cent ground beef burger patties, with added leeks and chilli flakes, these make glorious burgers.

You can grill, fry or do them on a griddle (our preferred method), they take about five minutes each side to leave them just a touch pink and juicy in the middle. These are thick, meaty, succulent burgers when cooked, with a slight chilli hit, and firmly made. There was almost no shrinking at all during the cooking, The leeks are a nice addition, leaving little crisped bits on the outside. The flavourings were just right, giving a nice beef savoury flavour without too much salt. A great burger and ridiculous value at the price.

Lamb Kebab £0.99 each Minced lamb, flavoured and shaped onto wooden skewers are fantastically easy to turn into delicious homemade kebabs – just griddle or grill, and throw into a pitta with salad. We added a mint and yoghurt dressing with lemon and garlic. The lamb was beautifully fragrant and moist, a lovely flavour and much nicer than the kebab shop!

Chicken Kebab £10.50/kg Using wooden skewers, Jamie Ward’s put together these marinated chicken kebabs. We chose a smoked paprika marinade, which is a hard one to replicate at home. Sweet, sticky with a lovely smoked flavour, it totally transformed chicken breast, onion and peppers when griddled or barbecued, the marinade sugars give a tasty blackened edge to the chicken and pepper skins. The chicken pieces, as you’d expect from Jamie Wards, were thick, fresh pieces of breast meat only, with no fat and no shrinkage at all when cooked, giving off no water as you find with supermarket chicken. Great for a summer barbecue and just so easy to throw on the grill.

Call Jamie Wards on 01829 272030 (Holt) or 01588 620226 (Churchstoke), or visit www.jamiewards butchers.co.uk.

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 87

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FOOD & DRINK JAMES GILLESPIE

In his regular column for Shire Magazine, James Gillespie introduces us to a well-known grape in a little known form. What better way to while away a summer’s day than with a crisp, refreshing white wine… even if it is a Cotes du Rhone

F

or most people, myself included, the uttering of the name Cotes du Rhone usually engenders the image of a glass of red wine. I always had a vague recollection of there being such a thing as white Cotes du Rhone but would have been hard pressed to explain what it tasted like.

The last three years have, however, seen me spending time (at the end of May) in the Northern Rhone Valley. This is the region of the classic red wine appellations of Hermitage, Cote Rotie and Cornas – all of them big rich serious red wines made from the spicy Syrah grape variety which lend themselves to long keeping and matching with strong-flavoured main course meals. Fabulous wines indeed but for the last three years the end of May here has seen blue skies, sunshine and temperatures touching 30 degrees centigrade while these reds are best suited to winter drinking by a blazing fire.

What then does the Rhone have to offer in terms of warm-weather white wines to sip on the terraces of bars, restaurants and gardens when cooling thirst-quenching refreshment is required?

Well, all of a sudden, I discovered Roussanne. There are other grapes in this part of France (Marsanne and Viognier spring to mind) used to make white wine and often blends of

white Rhone grapes are the order of the day but from my very satisfying investigations, it is the white wines made uniquely from the russet-coloured Roussanne grape that really deserve a place in our wine tasting address book.

The Roussanne variety gives white wines which are not overtly aromatic but do suggest lime and polleny blossom. They have a lovely richness and weight on the palate and those of you who are lovers of pears and peaches will find something of these fruits in the flavour but there is also a fascinating herby savouriness and nuttiness which after a while becomes almost addictive for the taste buds.

You may be able to find Roussanne planted elsewhere than the Rhone – there are plantations now further south in the Languedoc and in California and I’ve been selling a barrel-fermented one from South-African grapes grown in Stellenbosch under the label ‘The Foundry’ but as I write this I’m still in the Rhone, the sun is shining brightly, it is almost lunchtime and I’m off to find a local restaurant that will uncork me a lovely fresh bottle of Roussanne’s refreshing heavenly flavours.

James is happy to hear from fellow wine enthusiasts via james@touchstonewines.co.uk.

TA S T E T E S T

Lewis Farm Shop in Eyton, Wrexham A family business set up in 2006 by Mark and Jayne Lewis expanded from a butchery selling the family farm’s lamb to a whole farm shop packed with a huge range of produce, most of it made fresh on site every day. Jayne and Mark work incredibly hard to keep the shelves stocked and have a wide range of customers travelling from near and far for some of their delicious, award-winning treats!

Small Pork Pie £1.99 This is a solid little pie, a lot more filling than it looks.

Jayne wanted us to try the pickle version, but other flavours are available every day. The pork meat (straight from the butchery) was tasty, lean and chunky, with solid hot crust pastry that was just the right thickness – not too much. A lovely little pork pie. Jayne says: ‘I use small chunk Branston Pickle as it gives a good amount of flavour, it just works better than our own apple chutney in the pork pies.’

Welsh Dragon Scotch Egg £2 Coated with breadcrumbs, the finely textured pork meat layer is flavoured with leeks and chilli, encasing a hardboiled egg. As Jayne’s scotch eggs are baked rather than deep fried in oil, they aren’t greasy. There is a moderate chilli aftertaste, and the tiny leek pieces are as much for colour and add a really nice flavour to the finely minced pork meat.

Sausage Roll & Cheese and Onion Roll 50p each Both meat and vegetarian options of these little two-bite size rolls are tasty treats indeed, with flaky pastry around a nice, solid middle filling. The cheese and onion has a lovely onion kick, and as you’d expect from Lewis’s, the sausage meat version was delicious, and seasoned perfectly.

Small Quiche £2.90 A beautifully made, delicately flavoured cheese, onion and tomato quiche. The filling was soft, a nice eggy filling, and small pieces of white onion on the bottom. Not too much cheese was added to the topping, and the pastry was very light – and no soggy bottoms!

Lovely with a fresh salad.

To find out more, call 01978 780852 or visit www.lewisfarmshop.com

88 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

THE WEST ARMS

Around the world in 80 bites, the West Arms in Llanarmon D.C takes us on a food adventure We, of course, weren’t sharing with anyone.

The caprese salad, an impressionist’s summer scene of rocket, peppers, tomato and edible flowers, hid soft steak-sized pieces of fresh, juicy mozzarella, all bound together with a thick gorgeous vinaigrette. A platter of cured meats included chicken, crunchy bruschetta, and a thick, sweet, powerful chutney. The Shropshire Blue tart was both sweet and blue cheesy, encased in a perfect crumbly pastry (no soggy bottoms here) with a lovely little crunchiness added to the topping. Empty plates all round.

SMOKEY FLAVOURS Round two. A lovely surprise arrived with the BBQ chicken. Here, dishes are brought to the table covered in a silver dome. This plate arrived under a glass dome, which we could see was smoke filled – and lifted to let a fragrant, woody smoke dissipate, revealing the BBQ chicken dish beneath. The chicken breast was incredibly fresh, juicy, tender – his is both one of the easiest and one but also seared with the unmistakable BBQ of the hardest reviews to write. It’s the flavour (chef admitted afterwards they had easiest because, when you’re talking about the installed an actual barbecue in the kitchen way chef Grant Williams approaches food, for this dish). The loveliest part was the there’s a lot to say. The hard bit is deciding vegetable accompaniment. Perfectly al dente what to leave out. gorgeous veg resting on a bed of to-dieEnough preamble. We should declare that for creamy crème fraîche potato was set we are fans of Grant’s cooking and culinary off wonderfully with dollops of romesco creations. He is proud, as he should be, of sauce – thick and nutty, originally a Catalan his yearly inclusion in the Waitrose Good Food condiment of almonds and peppers. The Guide, and has been leading the kitchen at combinations reminded us of Malaysian the West Arms for many years. So he knows cooking; fresh, unexpected and fun. what he’s doing. That said, the food journey The other two main dishes for our party you embark upon at the West Arms goes far were hardly boring. Not to be outdone, beyond conventional sensibleness the roasted monkfish tail was and conservatively offering safe bets thick, moist, had more flavour Gorgeous veg to customers. You get the feeling than other white fish like cod, resting on a bed of that chef wants to overwhelm you and was topped with a perfect to-die-for creamy with texture and flavour, that he hollandaise sauce (you always crème fraîche gets a huge kick out of stimulating wonder why you don’t order it potato was set off your tastebuds and through it all more often). But the star once you come out the other side having wonderfully with more was the accompaniment dollops of nutty had an excellent meal too. And – lovely, waxy potatoes on a romesco sauce today was the first day of the new minty pea and pancetta base. menu. Having made our choices The flavour combination of with manager Liane, we sat down, cold the buttery and tart sauce, soft minty peas Viognier in hand, expectantly. and salty pancetta pieces to go with the fish The starters were beautiful. Colourful, was balanced, complimentary and just really varied, fun and gauged cleverly to suit both good. The lamb, medium rare, revelled in a a large starter for one or nibbles to share. sweet and tasty sauce, a little crunch to the

T

broccoli and gorgeous herb gnocchi that disappeared immediately.

The puddings were outrageous. A ‘light’ sticky toffee pud, risen further than you often see (to let in more toffee sauce we suspect), and a piece of cheesecake (strong flavours of passionfruit) with its own chocolate ‘sail’ finished us off completely. We were completely happy and replete – what a taste journey.

THE BILL Starters Caprese salad with heritage tomato and mozzarella £6.95 Shropshire Blue, pear and spring onion tart, with hazelnut, parmesan and rocket salad £6.95 Platter of cured meats with home made chutney and bruschetta £7.95 Mains Honey and mint glazed Welsh lamb cutlets with herb gnocchi and port wine sauce £19.95 Smoked BBQ free range chicken breast with crushed new potatoes, crème fraîche, romesco sauce £17.95 Roasted monkfish with saffron potatoes, peas, pancetta, red wine jus, sabayon £18.95 Dessert Sticky toffee pudding with toffee sauce £6.50 Passionfruit and white chocolate cheesecake £6.50 Welsh and Border cheeseboard £8.00

The West Arms Hotel, Llanarmon Dyffryn-Ceiriog LL20 7LD, 01691 600665 www.thewestarms.com

90 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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30/06/2017 14:43

The ALBION B

uilt within the walls of World Heritage site of Conwy, Wales, the Albion is regarded as one of the finest examples of a 1920's public house in Britain. There is an exquisite original 1920's back bar in the main bar room with a rare hatch linking it to the rear snug. Of the ten

NORTH WALES PUB OF THE YEAR 2016

hand pulls on the bar today, four are originals from the 1920's. Whether you decide to sit in the Lounge with its baronial fireplace, relax in the tranquil snug or partake in lively conversation in the Bar, we hope you, like many others will enjoy the unique setting that the Albion Ale House has to offer. Get yourself a nice drink, grab some nibbles, pull up a seat, take in the atmosphere, read a paper, have a chat or play a game, but most important of all, enjoy yourself and feel at home.

The Albion, Uppergate Street, Conwy, LL32 8RF ~ Telephone 01492 582 484 ~

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BRINGING PRINT TO STRETTON From screenprinting and sculpture to pottery and photography – immerse yourself in the inspiring art on display at this year’s Church Stretton Arts Festival

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School. Theirs will be among his summer’s annual Church a number of works available to Stretton Arts Festival view and organisers are delighted Exhibition is set to launch in to report an expansion of space style – with two new names to accommodate the increased joining the prestigious line up. number of craft David Harban exhibits for this and Paul Hipkiss exhibition. have accepted Last year saw the invitation a wonderful variety to exhibit their of work – textile art, fascinating work metal work, ceramics, and will be the first woodwork, jewellery, printmakers to take leather work – and on the role of guest it is hoped that this artists at the show. year will have an The distinctive Paul Hipkiss, Dinorwig even more impressive prints and etchings display spread over two rooms by these two esteemed members and including a comprehensive of the Midland Printmakers display of art and photography. group and the Royal Sue Hockaday, on behalf Birmingham Society of Artists of the organisers said: ‘We (RBSA) will be on show in the are delighted to welcome drama studio at Church Stretton

David Harban and Paul Hipkiss and it is especially pleasing to showcase our talented local young artists.

Displays of student art work from St Lawrence CE Primary School and Church Stretton School will form part of Exhibition 2017.’

The festival will also incorporate a day of workshops for young people aged between seven and 13 on Friday 4th August at Church Stretton Library. The Exhibition opening reception will take place on Monday 31st July at 7:30pm at Church Stretton School, with tickets priced at £2.50. It will then be open from Tuesday 1st

August to Saturday 12th August between 11am and 6pm (7.15pm on performance evenings at the Church Stretton School).

Tickets priced at £1, (free after 6pm and for exhibitors and students). For more info visit www.strettonfestival.org.uk or call 01694 723072.

Di Purser with her work

David Harben in his workshop

David Harben’s iconic landscapes David Harben

A page from Di Purser’s sketchbook

Hill farm near Cadair by Paul Hipkiss

92 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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ARTS

Art proves best therapy for Gaynor

AFONWEN EVENTS July 8th-9th, Earth Deva This talented lady creates mythical and mystical statues, goddesses, fairies, wolves, cats, pendants and art. Marie designs and makes all of her own moulds and works with crystals and semi precious stones.

July 11th, Wood Be Special, Paula has a collection of wooden keepsakes, fairy doors, name plaques, that she decorates and customises.

Paula will be working while here so pop in and see her.

July 12th13th, Elaine at Cherry Bea and Helen Bradley Elaine will be here with jewellery, pre-loved silver rings and gift items. Helen brings fabric items; aprons, shopping bags, tea cosies and cushions in funky fabrics. Helen offers made to measure soft furnishings, curtains and blinds.

July 22nd-23rd, Painting on Canvas with Thelma Evans Thelma paints detailed local landscapes and floral designs on canvas. Prints will be available.

The power of positivity: rediscovering her love of drawing has helped improve Gaynor’s health

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found exhausting but I’m now down to 21 stone grandmother who rediscovered the joy of art and still losing weight. Hopefully I’ll be able to 50 years after being told her drawings were no stand again in the future. good has held her first exhibition.

‘I used to draw a lot as a child. I’d do stuff Talented Gaynor Jones, 57, from Gwespyr, from cartoons, like Mickey Mouse that sort of in Flintshire, picked up her pencils again while thing. But I was told my drawings were rubbish attending art classes at the Pendine Park care and I shouldn’t bother wasting my time. I lost all organisation in Wrexham where she receives respite confidence and never really drew anything again care three days a month. until I started coming to Pen y Bryn.

Gaynor, who uses a wheelchair and is unable to ‘I just picked up a pencil and began sketching. I stand, also suffers from debilitating depression and like to draw animals and wildlife. used to go for long periods of time My son, Dafydd, is an animal without leaving the house.

I was told my drawings rights activist and a vegan and I’m were rubbish – I lost all A PASSION FOR ART confidence and never drew vegetarian too. I just love animals All that changed when she rekindled anything again until I came and cartoon animals as well.

‘There are two seagulls that her love of drawing and she says the to Pen y Bryn’ live by me at Gwespyr. I see them confidence she has gained since going all the time and I call them George and Mildred. to Pen y Bryn has been a life-changing experience I drew them on my first try in the art group at Pen for her: ‘I suffered depression and never went out y Bryn and the activities co-ordinator, told me my of the house, I simply couldn’t face it. I wouldn’t drawing was brilliant.’ talk to anyone other than my partner and family.

I’d stay in bed for weeks at a time and my weight WILDLIFE EXHIBITION ballooned to over 28 stone,’ she explains. ‘I now Pendine Park’s artist in residence Sarah Edwards have to use a wheelchair and I have a social worker was also astounded by the quality of her intricate and carers who come four times a day. I do manage, and lifelike wildlife sketches so set about organising with help, to go swimming once a week which I a display of Gaynor’s work in the foyer of the centre: ‘I love the wildlife drawings Gaynor takes such pride in. She is a truly gifted artist and it’s a shame that for so long she didn’t draw or practice any art. She is certainly making up for lost time and I look forward to seeing more exhibitions of her work going on display,’ she says.

Gaynor adds: ‘It’s amazing they wanted to put on an exhibition of my drawings at Pen y Bryn. That really is special and I’m so proud. I just like art and craft work, particularly drawing and wish I’d drawn all my life instead of believing I couldn’t do it.

July 25th, Yvonne’s Card making Class: Yvonne supplies all the kit and guides you need to create your own cards. To book contact Yvonne on 07789 915 040 or email ycjohn14@hotmail.com.

July 26th, Trevor Blackburn Hand Made Woven Scarves: Trevor has a selection of looms and weaves scarves.

He also turns wood, has some handmade pens and other crafts.

July 27th-28th, Polymer Clay Jewellery with Eileen Evans Eileen makes beautiful jewellery out of polymer clay. She blends colours to create designs and patterns.

August 29th30th, Encaustic Art with Linda Morris Create your own designs with hot irons and wax. www.afonwen.co.uk

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 93

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ARTS LO C A L E X H I B I T I O N S

PHOTOCOMPETITION G A RY L E R OY C R AW F O R D

Weston Park, Nr Telford, Shropshire Now – 3rd September This exhibition, Synthetic Landscapes, which includes new commissions by Pablo Bronstein and Heather & Ivan Morison and recent pieces by other leading contemporary artists such as Ryan Gander, Ged Quinn and Julian Opie, is set at Weston Park, one of Capability Brown’s grandest schemes, a landscape that he ‘invented’ in collaboration with architect James Paine, whose 300th anniversary it is this year. Meadow Arts conceived Synthetic Landscapes to address the 18th century idea of manufacturing an ‘improved’, idealised ‘natural’ environment – a synthetic landscape for the appreciation and enjoyment of man.

‘On my holidays’

GEORGE NASH

‘Coast’

Ironbridge Gorge, Telford Now – 2nd January The Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2017 and is marking this golden milestone with an exhibition of works of art inspired by the 10 Ironbridge museums, all created by members of the local community. The exhibition is made-up of more than 70 works of art in a variety of mediums including painting, print-making, photography, ceramics, glass, needlecraft and sculpture.

The free ‘Art of the Community’ exhibition is open Monday to Friday, 10am-5pm in the Coalbrookdale Gallery, adjacent to Enginuity.

Ffin y Parc Gallery, Llanrwst 23rd July – 18th August POTTERY and pictures combine to produce a not-to-be-missed mixed art exhibition at this award-winning gallery. The Gallery and coffee shop will be awash with colour with a new collection of works from Welsh abstract artist Martyn Jones and ceramics from pottery artist Willie Carter, alongside a mixed summer exhibition. Working from his studio based in Cardiff, Martyn Jones’ paintings evoke the spirit of classic late English Modernism. Described as a ‘natural colourist’, Martyn graduated with an MA in Fine Art from Chelsea School of Art.

‘Detail’

‘Bluebells’

SANDRA OLIVER

‘Beach Huts’ ‘Sky meets sea and sand’

STEPH SEDDON

Williamson Art Gallery, Birkenhead, Wirral 24th June – 3rd September 2017 The Dinner Party: Of Time & Place looks closely at a slice of Merseyside’s Post-War cultural history. Sam Walsh’s 1980 painting serves as the fulcrum around which to examine an important part of this world via five of its guests: the painters Don McKinlay, Arthur Ballard, Adrian Henri and Maurice Cockrill and Walsh himself. The exhibition will be the first time in more than a generation that all five artists will have featured in the same show. Recently gifted to the Walker Art Gallery, The Dinner Party acts as a fulcrum that helps introduce the visitor to members of Walsh’s fictional soirée and their roles in the area’s artistic at that time.

We want your photos!

Thank you to everyone who entered photographs into our competition. Your images have certainly got the Shire team in the mood for the holidays. We have printed our favourites here and flagged up those that we think are the best of the bunch. For our next edition we hope you are still feeling creative and we’re going to set the topic of ‘Where I live’, so show us images that best sum up your home area. As before, please send your photographs to editorial@shiremagazine. co.uk. Good luck!

‘Ending the perfect holiday with a Morecambe Bay sunset’ 94 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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Create Nostalgia

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Throwing away your trash never looked so good: yellow metal basket, £6, www. gb.flyingtiger.com

Bring a pop of yellow into your home this summer

Time to shine: retro style wall clock in English mustard, £30.00, www.amara.com

Choose graphic prints to brighten your living space: ’You Are My Sunshine’ print, £17.99, www.notonthehighstreet.com

We love this combination of golds and yellows (L-R): 45cm knot garden gorse cushion (showing reverse side), £55, 30cm multistripe sand cushion, £45, multistripe sand throw, £122, knot garden gorse double blanket, £285 (also available as a throw, single and kingsize) all from www.melintregwynt.co.uk

These wonderful salt lamps don’t just look cheerful they’re good for your health too! Available in two sizes; 1.5-3kg, £17 and 3-5kg, £25, www. rowanthorn.co.uk

WE LOV E

Snuggle up on this comfy chair, ancient mariner cosy chair in green, £379, www.shannonsales.co.uk

HOME SHOPPING

Add a graphic print and mustard yellow shade with the Cera table lamp, £40, www. furniturevillage.co.uk

Style and substance with the Watford vintage bedside table, £45, www.laredoute.com

Add some fun to afternoon tea with the Ulster Weavers dotty sheep melamine scatter tray, £4.99, www.meirionmill.co.uk

We love this trend which mixes pretty patterns, vibrant colours and quirky motifs

Sink into freshly laundered relaxed denim yellow bed linen; from £38.00, www. secretlinenstore.com

Breathe new life into old furniture with this English yellow chalk paint by Annie Sloan, £18.95, www. petticoatlaneshop.co.uk

Quirky ornaments like this wooden bird ornament embody the trend perfectly, £4.95, www.dotcom giftshop.com

QUIRKY

Relax outdoors in style: Tweedmill blanket, £69.95, www.tweedmill.com

W E L OV E

Smarten up your home and create some serious curb appeal with a new door.

This sage green Truedor composite door comes in various other colour ways.

We rather like this summery tone, perfect to add some country style to your exterior. Prices from £333, Oswestry Windows and Doors, www.owd.co.uk

Perfect for tots to teens, we adore the folk duvet set, £39, www.made.com

Combining foxes and flowers in one, this Puddin’ Head Animaux coaster is pure whimsy, £5 www.amara.com How pretty is this Pip Studio shabby chic ceramic range from £8.50, www.daisypark.co.uk

This vibrant vintage cushions in rose wraps the whole trend in one go, £140, www.vintagecushions.co.uk

Bring a dash of Welsh folk charm to your living space with a range of woven fabrics made in traditional colours and patterns, www.t-w-m.co.uk July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 97

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HOME VISIT

A garden room with a view We visit a home in Oswestry and meet Adrian and Louise, who have transformed their living space with the help of a local family-owned and run business, OWD Home Improvements (Oswestry Windows & Doors Ltd)

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room, and we also had glass doors installed to let alking in through the kitchen to the back of in additional light. We’ve actually had the team their bungalow, Louise explains: ‘There was back since they finished the conservatory, to replace an old conservatory here when we originally bought some of the other windows in the house.’ the house, and we wanted to see what our options were regarding updating it. We saw an advert FAST TURNAROUND for OWD Home Improvements, phoned up and Matt and his team managed the whole project from they came out to take a look and at the same time start to finish including plumbing, electrical work offered us valuable advice. The old conservatory and plastering. The only thing the couple arranged was leaking where it joined the house and we found themselves was to have the floor done because that it was cold and unusable in the winter.’ they wanted to look at different options.

Adrian continues: ‘When Matt first came out, ‘We honestly wouldn’t have done anything he advised us that our original roof was made of differently,’ says Adrian. ‘OWD have good wood and Perspex sheets – the reason why the aftersales care and checked we were happy with room felt so cold during the winter. He told us everything after it was completed, even though about the GuardianTM Warm Roof System, which there weren’t any snags for them to take care of. has five layers of insulation and an outer tiled roof.

They removed the old conservatory from site as We made the decision to have the roof replaced they worked, there was no mess anywhere – they with this remarkable system, and it’s made a huge didn’t even leave a single nail and even difference to the room. We also decided to have the windows replaced, with triple ‘This new room has washed the windows for us afterwards!’ changed our living.

The entire project took around six glazed units. We can now use this space We can just open weeks to complete: ‘We rang them at all year-round: we live in it constantly, it’s the big double the end of March, discussed the design our main family room! At Christmas, we doors and bring even had our tree in the corner.’ the garden inside’ and they came back in the middle of May to install. The whole construction was very quick, as there was an existing base. It TRANSFORMATION took a week to install, which was great for us. We ‘The room has been completely transformed from even recommended OWD Home Improvements what it was like before; there are no draughts and to our neighbour, who had an old conservatory it’s lovely and warm during the colder months,’ on the back of his house, and they’re replaced his says Louise. ‘Matt suggested the possibility of too,’ adds Adrian. underfloor heating as well, but we decided it wasn’t ‘This new room has changed our living,’ says necessary and we’ve been right!’

Louise. ‘We purposely have no TV out here, and ‘Matt offered us good advice I thought,’ says we can just open the big double doors and bring Adrian, ‘He suggested we have a wall and small the garden inside, and it’s absolutely brilliant for windows on the side overlooking our neighbours the kids and when we have friends around.’ for more privacy; this has worked really well in the

FACT BOX The project at Adrian and Louise’s house included • Initial on-site consultation/meeting • Site survey by qualified surveyor. • Installation of new windows and french doors • Installation of the GuardianTM Warm Roof System • Plumbing • All electrical works • Plastering www.owdgroup.com

98 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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30/06/2017 14:23

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30/06/2017 17:09

KITCHEN SHOPPING

SH E R F T E G T I DY

Keep it tidy: Brabantia 12-litre pedal bin in moss green, £35, www.johnlewis.com

d icals tren The botan is opular th remains p reen g it o keep season, s s… e fab find with thes

Drink pretty: Kew Royal Botanic Gardens glass jug, £42, www.shop.kew.org Serve it up: botanical tray, £20, www.notonthehighstreet.com

Dry in style: Pimpernel botanic garden tea towel, £6.25 each, www.pimpernelinternational.co.uk Herb house: medium wire cage, £22, www.magpieliving.co.uk

WE L OV E

Well seasoned: botanical salt & pepper, £3.99, www.tkmaxx.com

Eat your greens: Joseph Joseph Chop2Pot mini in green, £11, www.lakeland.co.uk Slice of nice: Morphy Richards sage green toaster, £49.99, www.robertdyas.co.uk

COOL Flower power: Orla Kiely 70s flower enamel hob top kettle, £55, www.orlakiely.com

Measure up: Set four measuring cups, £19.95 www.dotcomgiftshop.com

Citrus vibe: Smeg Fab 28 retro style refridgerator in lime green, from £1,049.90, www.rnwilliams.co.uk

100 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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PETS & WILDLIFE

We’re delighted to introduce a new regular feature from the RSPB. This issue, we hear from the team at the newly relaunched RSPB Cors Ddyga on Anglesey...

A blooming, booming debut for RSPB Cors Ddyga

Discover a wealth of nature on your doorstep

‘O

ur tranquil nature reserve on Anglesey, previously known as RSPB Malltaeth Marsh, has been through a period of transformation this year and has now been relaunched for the summer.

‘Tygai was a Breton exile who came to Anglesey to establish a Christian church during the sixth century. The name also dates back to the 15th century when it was used in Welsh literature. The reserve is the also the site of the former Berw Colliery on Anglesey.

While the name Malltraeth Marsh was a good description of the area’s terrain, we felt it didn’t quite

If you look carefully in autumn you may see capture these historic and cultural qualities, an otter’s tunnel or some of its ‘spraint’ (poo). as well as note its exact geographical location.

And as it gets colder in winter you might The name RSPB Cors Ddyga reflects and be lucky enough to see a secretive bittern celebrates not only its cultural heritage but raising its head from the vegetation, a flock also its historic roots. of starlings moving at dusk or hear the sharp ‘Wetlands are one of our richest habitats squeal of a water rail. To celebrate this rich and RSPB Cors Ddyga is one of the largest wildlife, local sculptor, Duncan Kitson, has lowland wetlands in Wales. The lakes, ponds carved a wooden bittern sculpture on the and ditches are some of the most important reserve, which includes the words of the in the UK and host over 30 scarce wetland well-known Welsh folk song Deryn y Bwn plants. The grassland also supports one of o’r Banna. The 1.25 mile walk that has been Wales’s few lapwing colonies and resounds built through the wetlands, provides a perfect to the song of the skylark. The Cors Ddyga retreat and a good reason to stop Site of Special Scientific Interest and have a well-deserved breather.

(SSSI) is one of just three in ‘Funding from the Heritage Wales designated for the richness Wetlands are one Lottery Fund and Gaynor of its aquatic invertebrates, such of our richest as dragonflies and water beetles. habitats and RSPB Cemlyn-Jones Charitable Trust and the Sustainable Development The reed-beds are home to Cors Ddyga is Fund, a Welsh Government otters, water voles and wetland one of the largest Initiative, has made it possible for birds, including marsh harriers. lowland wetlands in Wales RSPB Cors Ddyga to embark on In spring they echo to the buzz this new chapter in its history for of warblers newly arrived from both locals and visitors to discover.

Africa alongside spectacular Make sure you put it on your ‘places to visit’ displays of wetland flowers. As summer list this summer.’ Go online and visit approaches you can spot ducklings, goslings www.rspb.org.uk for more information. and water plants, like the rare water violet.

RSPB Cors Ddyga is one of only three SSSIs in Wales!

Summer at the wetlands is simply breathtaking

PETS SHOPPING

Show your furry friends just how much you care with the latest pet must-haves…

Pet owners require a sense of humour and the Happy Jackson small pet bowl, £8, from www. daisypark.co.uk says it all!

Rover will sleep soundly in the luxurious Joules slumber oval pet bed in French navy bloom, £70, www.amara.com

102 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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PETS & WILDLIFE

CUTE PETS

Buster is very tired after a long day at the office!

Cheshire Wildlife Trust is helping local conservation efforts at Delamere Forest

BREEDING BOOST FOR RARE DRAGONFLY

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introducing mature larvae to the site, but this is rare dragonfly appears to have made a return the first year where we have not introduced new to Cheshire after a long and complicated larvae to the pool. This means the adults that are programme to reintroduce the species. emerging this month are either from larvae that The white-faced darter had been absent from have survived for a longer period or are in fact the the area for over a decade and are only found at result of adults breeding successfully at our site.’ a handful of locations in England, due to loss of The nymphs of the white-faced darter develop its natural habitats. and feed underwater for at least two years before The Cheshire Wildlife Trust conservation emerging, and taking to the wing to find a mate team began the project in 2013 by collecting the and breed, so the Trust will have to wait a little tiny vibrant green larvae from healthy populations longer to find out whether Delamere once again elsewhere and introducing them to a suitable has its own self-sustaining population but happily mossland pool in Delamere Forest. the signs so far are extremely positive.

Last month there was much excitement when A dragonfly Trust team members reintroduction scheme saw their first ‘true has only been attempted Delamere’ white-faced once before in the UK darters emerge. Chris and this pioneering Meredith, Delamere work from the Cheshire conservation officer Wildlife Trust is in the at Cheshire Wildlife running for prestigious Trust explains: conservation awards to ‘Sightings this year be announced over the are really significant. summer. Find out more We know that we about the project online have had white-faced at www.cheshirewildlife darters successfully emerge from our work The Delamere white-faced darters are finally emerging trust.org.uk.

Even the humble sparrow appreciates sharp, modern design – keep it stylish with the Birdy birdfeeder, £16.76 from www. shop.designist.ie

Keep your pooch in line with some yummy treats – this bone-shaped dog biscuits gift set, £9.95, from www. cuckooland.co.uk is just the ticket

Georgie hears her favourite word – ‘Treat!’

Grace, Ben and Bo the lab pose for a shot

Gypsy at the Bears Paw at Warmingham Cheshire: ‘We were made very welcome and they gave Gypsy a sausage!’ says Lynn Brereton

WE WANT YOUR PETS! Send us a picture of your beloved pet and we’ll include them in the next issue! Just email your picture, with the name of your pet, to editorial@ shiremagazine.co.uk with ‘Cute Pets’ as the Subject.

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 103

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GARDENS

PICK OF THE PLANTS AND WHERE TO FIND THEM

GARDEN SHOPPING

Warmer weather means getting outdoors to create a special space to relax in your garden this summer OUTDOOR LIVING This stylish yet functional barbecue side table has lots of space for dishes and condiments, and will be welcomed by budding and seasoned outdoor chefs alike, Zest For Leisure, £79.99, www.p-a-group.com

Get cooking al fresco with the sleek Alfa Ciao medium pizza oven, £1,595, www.saxon.co.uk

For nearly a decade, the expert team at Plant Hunters’ Fairs have helped us track down those perfect specimens for our gardens by laying on specialist events across the region. Read our guide to this season’s unmissable plant fairs...

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anet and Martin Blow started Plant Hunters’ Fairs in 2008 with a fair at The Dorothy Clive Garden which quickly attracted thousands of garden lovers thanks to the half price entry fee and select nurseries offering the widest possible range of plants.

‘We felt that plant events at that time were either big and expensive or didn’t necessarily have the passionate experts on the stalls who grew their own plants and could offer honest advice to the buyer,’ explains Martin. ‘Running a small nursery ourselves, Special Perennials, we knew that small growers desperately wanted a wider audience for their plants but couldn’t afford the big shows so we thought why not organise a fair ourselves to bring the two together?

We also wanted to help some of our favourite gardens. The fairs attract new visitors to Saturday 1st-Sunday 2nd July Henbury Hall Gardens, Macclesfield Cheshire SK11 9PJ 10am-5pm, half price entry to gardens and plant fair £2.50 Rarely open to the public, this hidden gem in the heart of the rolling north Cheshire countryside, has a setting of almost magical peace and tranquillity. The 12-acre gardens have recently undergone a transformation to awake them from years of slumber and are just waiting to be explored and loved.

Saturday 8th July Battlefield 1403, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY4 3DB 9:30am-4pm, free entry Battlefield 1403 is a bustling farm shop, butchery, deli, cafe and exhibition, but over 600 years ago this was the site of one the bloodiest battles fought on British soil. After visiting the plant fair and shop at Battlefield 1403, take a walk around the boundary of the 100-hectare battlefield.

Light the way with these Noma 10 vintage style Edison lightbulb set, £12.99, www. snowdonia nurseries.co.uk

Check

these lovely places and out the What’s On the venue keeps the pages for more whole of the entrance Plant Hunter fee to help them Fairs this maintain these delightful issue havens into the future.’

Plant Hunters Fairs now organise 41 events across an everexpanding area. Janet adds: ‘The original aims of Plant Hunters’ Fairs were simple, to create great value days out at lovely venues and give plant lovers the opportunity to meet a big variety of small, knowledgeable and passionate plant growers from across the country all in one lovely place. We’ve stuck to this as we’ve grown over the last nine years and it still seems to be very popular with the venues, nursery folk and, most importantly, the plant buying public.’

Sunday 9th July Abbeywood Gardens, Delamere, Cheshire. CW8 2HS, 10am-5pm, special reduced price £3.00 for gardens and plant fair Stunning from the moment you step through the restaurant into the Christopher Lloyd-inspired exotic garden with so many unusual and dramatic plants to discover. From there you move into the Rill Garden with water features and formal beds and borders and then to herbaceous borders full of colour and scent in the summer.

Sunday 27th and Monday 28th August, Dorothy Clive Garden, Market Drayton, TF9 4EU 10am-5pm both days better than half price entry to gardens and plant fair £3.50 The 12-acre Dorothy Clive Gardens are so charming and beautiful. Working up from the bottom of the garden, there’s a large pond with planting, herbaceous borders, exotic displays in the new glasshouses, quarry garden with a waterfall.

Take tea on the terrace overlooking the garden.

Sunday 30th July British Ironwork Centre, Oswestry, Shropshire SY11 4JH 10am-4pm, £1.00 in aid of Hope House Hospices This quirky, eclectic and, above all, fun venue has something for all ages to enjoy. There’s a working blacksmith and iron animal safari.

Explore the variety of plants on offer and pick up something new.

Sunday 3rd September Ness Botanic Gardens Wirral, Cheshire. CH64 4AY 10am-4pm £1.00 adults This garden houses one of the most exciting plant collections in the country with a number of rare and unusual plants. Cherries, rhododendrons, camellias, and heathers as well as the National Plant Collection of sorbus.

Ideal for smaller gardens, this Charles Bentley outdoor garden mirror in vintage grey creates the illusion of depth and the feeling of a bigger garden, £73.95, www. countrygardenroses.co.uk

Give your plants a pretty new pot or smarten up a patio or courtyard garden with a Woodlodge large heritage pot, 29.99, www.glyndwrplants.co.uk Outdoor living doesn’t get any better than this! Weatherproof and totally comfortable, we love the Edge modular garden sofa by 4 Seasons Outdoor, £2,449, www. cuckooland.co.uk Stoke up the barbie and add a splash of colour with the Weber Smokey Joe BBQ Grill in spring green, £69.99, www. snowdonianurseries.co.uk

With its interesting shape and bright sunny colour, the Elho plunge watering can in ochre, makes a great addition your gardening kit, www.elho.com

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 105

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GARDEN SHOPPING

The tropical vibe is huge in interiors and exteriors this summer so why not add a little colourful fun to your garden?

MINI-TREND: VIVA TROPICANA!

In our regular column from garden and flower experts at Reaseheath College in Nantwich, floristry tutor Helen Cooke shows us how to bring the outside in with this stunning table centrepiece featuring fresh garden flowers

BRINGING OUT THE BEST OF YOUR BLOOMS

E Perfect for garden parties or to cheer up a smaller outside space: hibiscus giant bunting 6m x 45cm, £3.79, www.peeks.co.uk

Create a talking point in your garden with an ‘Amongst the Bulrushes’ cast iron flamingo garden ornament, £89.99, www britishiron workcentre .co.uk

Slouch in style with the Caryota tropical print fabric canvas deckchair, £14.83, www.maisons dumonde.com

veryone loves celebrating summer with flowers. The prospect of long days and warmer weather draws thousands of visitors to Britain’s best garden and flower shows.

But you don’t have to go outside to make the most of your favourite blooms. Here, we’ll demonstrate how to use seasonal flowers to make an eye-catching table centrepiece to brighten up your home or patio table. As well as being colourful, it has the bonus of being slightly perfumed. Because this topiary tree is relatively simple and quick to assemble, it also makes a fabulous activity for children during the summer holidays. Add cocktail sticks with sweets for a fun effect.

To create this cheerful design, I’ve chosen complementary yellow, orange and white but you could choose colours to go with any theme. Make a bigger version than the one here, by keeping the overall design in proportion: one-third container, one-third support, one third floral ball.

Visit your florist or hardware store for any materials you can’t find at home.

Step 1 Line the pot with cellophane or plastic.

Cut the dowel or stick so that it’s three times the height of the pot.

Add water to the sand and cement and fill the pot. Hold the dowel in centrally until it sets, then leave for one hour to harden.

Trim the cellophane to just below the rim of the pot to make the base heavy enough to support the display.

You will need • A terracotta or ceramic pot a minimum of six inches (15cm) in height and about five inches (13cm) in width • Block of oasis foam • Dowel or substantial stick • Cellophane or plastic bag • Pre-mixed sand and cement or Polyfilla • Scissors and sharp knife

Step 3 Add sufficient moss to cover the surface of the pot. Save a little to poke in later in case there are you can see any remaining oasis.

Flowers and foliage • Three stems chrysanthemums • Six roses • Three stems spray roses • Handful of garden moss • Small leaved garden foliage

Give the neighbours something to talk about with this fun pineapple drinks dispenser 24.99, www. tkmaxx.com

Step 2 Soak the oasis and chamfer the sides to take off any sharp edges. Keep the overall size in proportion to the pot (aim for one-third the height of the stick).

Slide the oasis onto the stick.

Step 4 Next you can start adding small pieces of foliage to create a round ball shape, ensuring that you completely cover the oasis.

Step 5 Cut the flower stems at a 45 degree angle and add them to the ball, making sure that they don’t come outside the profile of the foliage.

This hardwearing rug can survive quite happily outdoors all summer long and the vibrant print is perfect for the tropical trend, indoor outdoor happy yellow rug, £129, www. cuckooland.com

Paul Daniels

Step 6 That’s it! To keep your design looking fresh, lightly spray with water. Display in pride of place on your patio table or in your dining space.

TOP TIP You can use the same principle to make a seasonal Christmas or Halloween design. Simply add baubles and berries, plastic spiders and cobwebs!

Reaseheath College in Nantwich, Cheshire, holds monthly taster workshops and leisure courses suitable for beginners to professionals, plus industry recognised courses for the career florist. To find out more, visit www.reaseheath.ac.uk, or you can contact Sue Poole on 01270 613213 or email suep@reaseheath.ac.uk.

106 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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FASHION

Summer’s in

E M B R AC E T H I S S E A S O N ’ S FA S C I N AT I O N W I T H F L O R A L S …

Cute capris: floral trousers by Joseph Ribkoff, £149.95, www.out-of-town-oswestry.co.uk

Well-heeled: Chapter embroidered sandals, £45, www.missselfridge.co.uk

Peek-a-boo blooms: Joules floral sunglasses, £70, www.vision express.com

All change: Cara flap over purse by Mala, £30, www.t-w-m.co.uk

Blooming lovely: Michaela Louisa dress (shown with red jacket), £249 www.daniellaofnantwich.co.uk

Ring of roses: rose gold bloom ring, £30, www.follifollie.co.uk

Harpers Bazaar

In the detail: Sofia floral embroidered denim skirt, £22, www.misspap.co.uk

Feeling rosy: rose print striped tee, £65, www.east.co.uk

Be: floral metallic cut-out belt, £19.95, www.whitestuff.co.uk

Off the shoulder blouse, £85 Shoulders and arms are highlighted this season with beautiful off the shoulder pieces or cut out detailing make these grments both romantic and subtly seductive.

H O L I DAY S T Y L E

Fashion expert, Abi Fisher, gives us her style picks for summer Now summer’s really on the way, it’s time to start thinking about what to take on holiday, and if you want the pick of the crop, it pays to plan ahead – the hottest items are the first to sell out! There are lots of looks out there to suit all occasions...

Pretty pairing: Polynesia floral frill bandeau, £26; frill classic briefs, £16, www.bouxavenue.com

Statement summer dress, £209 This dress combines the key colours for summer 2017. The loose cut means it suits all shapes and it’s ideal for hot days!

Blue scarf with pom-poms, £85 Update your wardrobe with a beautifully detailed and vibrant scarf. This small addition can really bring the look alive.

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 109

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GUIDE TO SHOPPING V I N TAG E

Protect your head with this Accessorize floppy brim fedora with pink detail, £22, www.uk.accessorize.com

Vintage remains an enduring trend. Maggie and Megan from Maggie Mae’s Vintage in Shrewsbury give us the low-down on how to find that diamond in the rough...

1. Always carry a tape measure While some vintage shops or dealers will measure garments or fabrics for you, bring your own measurements and if possible try on the garment.

You can never have too many bangles, and the Chlobo Love You More bracelet, gives a cute nod to the boho trend, £85, www.mococo.co.uk

2. Look out for known labels Iconic labels such as Horrockses, cc41, California Cottons, St. Michael, (early M&S) Montague Burton, Peggy Page, Susan Small, and Dorothy O’Hara are ideal.

We love an open-toed sandal, and they don’t come more comfortable than the Arizona metallic anthracite Birkenstock, £64.95, So Chic Bangor, 01248 372283

Add a splash of colour with this effortlessly chic Ilse Jacobsen jersey dress £134, www.tweedmill.co.uk

Tuck all your festival essentials into this fab Paradise tote, £12.99, www.shopintheclouds.co.uk

3. Check the condition Look at garment seams, check underarms for stains or tears and hold pieces up to the light to check for holes. Expect a little wear and tear, after all, that’s part of the charm of vintage.

4. Know your eras As time passed different sewing techniques were born with the development of new technologies and the ‘Make do and Mend’ lifestyle of the war eras. Look out for pressed stud closures on pre 40s, metal zips on 40s and early 50s and nylon zips in late 50s/ 60s.

5. Don’t get overwhelmed Vintage shopping can be highly addictive! Know what you want in your collections, create a capsule wardrobe and accessorise outfits you already have.

6. Where to buy?

Check out vintage and antiques fairs, specialist shops, car boots, auctions and Vintage festivals.

Visit Maggie Mae’s Vintage, 13 Dogpole, Shrewsbury www.maggiemaesvintage.co.uk

110 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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STYLING YOU AND YOUR HOME FOR OVER 20 YEARS

FASHION • FOOD & DRINK • HAIR & BEAUTY • HOME & GARDEN • TRAVEL & TOURISM

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Packing light for al fresco events is essential. Here’s our must-have kit to keep you looking fine, whatever the weather…

Beauty Junky Dry Shampoo, £5, www.asos.com Refresh your look in between washes. Just sprinkle on and comb through your hair to instantly cleanse and absorb grease for light, soft, manageable hair.

By Chole Ferry Matt Lipstick in Envy, £14.99, www.bychloeferry. com A nude lip is very on-trend for summer. This super-moisturising matt lip gloss by Chloe Ferry is highly pigmented giving it great lasting power.

FESTIVAL

Sam Humphreys, beauty lecturer at North Shropshire College, helps us get to grips with the latest looks for the festival season

Dr Bronner Lavender Hand Sanitizer (59ml), £5, www.planetorganic.com A hand santitizer is a must at outdoor events where the toilet facilities are questionable. This natural, organic version packs in the goodness, has no nasty chemicals and a lovely, soothing lavender scent.

N

ailing that flamboyant you keep your look natural festival look is an essential and fresh, regular touch-ups part of any summer event, will not be necessary – which particularly if you want to is worth remembering if stand out from the crowd. bathrooms and mirrors are For us Brits, looking good going to be in short supply! is just as important as looking Looking at the celebrities like you haven’t tried too hard. and designers in the limelight That’s why you need ensure today, the must-have festival that your makeup works hard makeup looks and trends for you instead. are quirky hats and rainbow For a fun festival feel, you coloured hair. Whatever want makeup to be bright, the choice, matching colourful, and long-lasting the eyeshadows to the – so you look as accessories is a must.

‘For a fun, good at the end of Carry the main the day, as you did festival feel you colour through your in the beginning. entire outfit, wearing want makeup Therefore shoes to match to be bright, maintenance of and jewellery such colourful, and your makeup during long-lasting!’ as bangles, beads the festival should and earrings and also be considered complete the look when deciding on which with nail varnish of the same option to wear. tone to achieve the full effect.

Whether you are new to The great thing about this applying makeup or not, you trend is that there are no can create a beautiful look in rules. Be creative! You can minutes and feel confident add detail and intricately that you will look great all day. painted patterns and motifs The latest trends and to your face, neck and hands those worn by celebrities as they are always a festie indicate that you have one favourite. In fact, anything of two choices: applying goes: feathers, hippy flowers a natural look, or a very overand daisy chains, or decals the-top makeup designed to applied to the face. They turn heads! Whichever your are all a perfect look for the choose will be influenced festival environment. by your personality, style, So get creative, enjoy confidence and the weather. and feel confident with what There are many stylish you have created to suit the looks to choose from and if ambiance of the day.

Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Powder Bronzer, £33, www. esteelauder.co.uk. Pop this into your handbag for instant sun-kissed glamour without the UV damage.

Liz Earle Instant Boost™ Skin Tonic Spritzer, 200ml, www.johnlewis. com This heavenly floral-scented, non-drying toner refreshes, soothes and brightens skin.

Autograph Aqua Proof Water Resistant Mascara, £11, www.mands. com A good waterproof mascara is a no-brainer for festivals.

112 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

BE SUN SAFE

THIS SUMMER Warmer weather is finally here, which means long, sunny days. But before you plan picnics and beach trips, think about your skin first Drink in the goodness and stay hydrated: Vita Coco 100% Pure Coconut Water, £2.50, from Holland and Barrett

Stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day (11am3pm). Short 10 minute bursts of exposure are better than long lingering periods spent in the heat. Work up sun exposure time gradually to avoid burning.

Slip on a shirt, a long-sleeved cotton one is best and wear a hat to help protect your face, ears, neck and hair. Sunglasses should block out 100% of the sun’s UV rays.

Wear a ‘natural’ sunscreen that is mineral and/or zinc-based and make sure and re-apply every

Go for a gel like What Skin Need’s Soothing Skin Gel, £9.99

2-3 hours, or after swimming or excessive sweating.

Aloe Vera gel is a must-have to soothe and calm any sunburn.

Due to its high vitamin content (A, B1, B2, B6, B12), it can rejuvenate and reach deep into the skin helping to heal microwounds, including sunburn and acne scars. Apply often.

We lose electrolytes through sweating and exercise. Replace these essential minerals with coconut water is naturally high in electrolytes and refreshing too.

You can take Nature’s Plus Ultra Omega 3/6/9 three months before your holiday, £17.75

Boost your carotenoids – those pigments that give fruit and vegetables their red, yellow and green colours. They protect the skin against harmful UV rays.

Astaxanthin, is a carotenoid that is found predominantly in marine life and is one of the most powerful ‘internal sunscreens’ there is. They’re especially high in carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, apricots, tomatoes and dark leafy greens.

The carotenoids are said to It’s claimed that you can stay out in the sun twice as long without burning – but still do be careful!

WISH LIST

Get your vitamin C levels up!

It’s know to have strong properties to help protect against sunburn so make sure and consume plenty of vitamin C-rich foods like lemons, pineapple, kiwi, broccoli, parsley and tomatoes. You can also pop an effervescent Vitamin C to boost your levels.

Omega-3 Rich foods are food for the skin too, so eat as much as you can. Oily fish as well as avocados, nuts and seeds are ideal. They provide a natural protection against the elements.

W E L OV E

Dior Vernis Nail Lacquer, £19.50, www.feelunique.co.uk Dior Vernis Nail Lacquer’s spring/summer colours include this oh-so-sweet coral pink called ‘Maybe’.

Marc Jacobs Rain, £38, www.houseoffraser.co.uk The Marc Jacobs’ Splash fragrances don’t just look pretty, they smell divine too! They are all ideal for summer but we love ‘Rain’ most of all.

Drink your vitamins and get glowing inside and out with Effervescent Vitamin C, Quest Vitamins, £4.99

Naturtint Anti-Ageing CC Cream for Hair

Guerlain Météorites Compact, £36.50, www.guerlain.com How pretty is this compact? Correct problem areas and mattify skin with this sweet-smelling powder.

As we age, hair naturally becomes more brittle and prone to breakage.

This unique leave-in antiageing wonder cream contains baobab extract, hydrogenised pea, wheat protein and sunflower water to help repair damage, boost volume and shine, smooth split ends and fight hair thinning. £7.99, 50ml www.naturtint.co.uk

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 113

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ASK THE DOCTOR

Men: How to avoid prostate cancer Dr Barling looks at the two most common types of prostate problems, and how you can avoid them…

‘L

et’s look at two forms of prostate disease, namely benign prostatic hypertrophy and prostate cancer. Firstly benign prosthetic hypertrophy is very common. In one study an estimated 90 per cent of men between 45 and 90 will suffer some type of lower urinary tract infection as a result of an enlarged prostate. This condition is very seldom life threatening and can be treated.’

How is it diagnosed?

‘The cause of benign prostatic enlargement or hypertrophy is not known but it results in increased smooth muscle tone within the gland, which enlarges.

The measurement of the size of a prostate gland and the resulting discomfiture in symptoms can be done in two ways: with a rectal examination and by measuring the ability to pass urine which is called uroflowmetry.

DR PETER BARLING

Dr Peter Barling is a retired local practitioner, who trained in Birmingham and London, and worked as a doctor for 42 years, 37 of these as a GP, in Banff, Alberta and Oswestry, Shropshire.

interesting how diet can have an effect. There is certainly an increased risk from red meat, fat and milk. Interestingly a study in Japan, where the risk of prostate cancer has been historically very small, the incidence dramatically changes when the Japanese eat a more westernised red meat diet. The risk can be reduced by eating a Mediterranean type diet, essentially having a diet that What is the treatment? has high and vegetables, fruits, ‘Treatment can involve drugs grains and fish. Studies also to relax the smooth muscle and show that obesity is associated reduce the size of the prostate. If with increased risk of these fail, then surgery prostate cancer, such of the prostate gland is ‘The risk of dying of prostate cancer that having a body an option. There can is relatively small. mass index (BMI) be complications to In fact studies greater than 32.5 this procedure which gives a 35 percent can occasionally result show that most higher risk of dying in erectile dysfunction patients with prostate cancer are from prostate cancer or a degree of than in men with incontinence. Prostatic more likely to die of cardiovascular a body mass index hypertrophy from a disease’ below 25.There benign cause is very are also genetic unlikely to be a life predispositions to prostate cancer threatening condition and can be and hormonal perturbations assessed, measured and treated which will have some effect on successfully. It is also common.’ developing prostate cancer.’

How common is prostate cancer?

How can prostate cancer be ‘There is a lifetime risk of about screened for?

30 percent for prostate cancer ‘We then come to the really in the Western world. This will controversial question about result in approximately 10 per screening for prostate cancer. cent developing the condition and There is essentially a tumour about three per cent dying from it.’ marker known as the prostate specific antigen or PSA which Why is diet important? is useful in measuring the ‘With regard to causes of progression of disease in prostate prostate cancer it is really quite A simple way of measuring your own ability to pass urine means asking the question: does it takes longer than a minute to empty a full bladder, or whether the distance that you pass urine is less than a meter, which indicates you’re certainly getting some degree of prostatic obstruction to the bladder outflow.’

cancer. It is also associated with increased size of benign prostates but its role in screening for prostate cancer in order to detect it early on has been very controversial. It has been used over the past 20 years and there is no single opinion as to whether it is beneficial or not. The problem is that it can potentially over diagnose prostate cancer and put men through procedures such as prostate biopsies which can have significant side effects, when in fact there is no significant risk.’

What are the outcomes?

‘When prostate cancer is diagnosed by tissue diagnosis then the level of prostate cancer is also measured as a staging procedure. This staging of the prostate cancer will decide on what sort of treatment is offered, and these are fairly well established now.

The treatments can involve hormonal treatment, surgical treatment and radiotherapy, or combinations of these. The risk of dying of prostate cancer is relatively small. In fact studies show that most patients with prostate cancer are more likely to die of cardiovascular disease.

Prostrate cancer is a difficult condition to screen for and probably the most effective way of reducing your risk of prostate cancer is to alter your diet and avoid obesity.’

114 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August2017

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30/06/2017 14:16

MEN’S STYLE

OUTDOOR ESSENTIALS At festivals, open air gigs, or just out and about, be armed and ready…

Barbour Balloch waxed flight bag, £89.95, www.outdoorandcountry.co.uk

V-Lite Walk.Lite Tenby shoe, £71.50, www.cherrytreecountryclothing.co.uk

BEST OF

Tom Ford aviator sunglasses, £260, www.visionexpress.com

Get shirty: men’s grandad neck short sleeve shirt, £16.99, Blue Inc, www.blueinc.co.uk

STAYING

NEUTRAL Keep it cool and casual this summer in natural and stone hues

Muted tee: AllSaints Harlston Crew t-shirt in putty, £78, www.johnlewis.com

Short stuff: men’s stone shorts, £24, www.mandco.co.uk Vintage times: Hammond & Co aviation watch by Patrick Grant, £100, www.debenhams.com

Hats off: Tom Smarte 307 straw and braid fedora hat in natural and beige, £125, www.tomsmarte.com

Desert style: Peru by Mens at Dune, £90, www.dunelondon.com

Light load: Barbour Royston Harrington style jacket, £139, www.barbour.com Belt up: Stratton belt in camel, The British Belt Company, £50, www.vaughandavies.co.uk

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 115

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30/06/2017 14:28

HEALTH

Happy, healthy holidays

Lizzie Parker

In this edition, Shire Magazine’s resident expert from Chester University have shared some wisdom on how to have a healthy holiday this summer. Health and wellbeing tutor Lizzy Parker offers her hints and tips on staying positive, happy and well balanced during the long summer holidays so you feel ready to face the autumn relaxed, refreshed, on-track and raring to go!

The holiday season is no reason to ruin the hard work you’ve already put in

T

he summer holidays are almost upon us, which of course is a delight, however, this is often a time when people struggle to stay ‘on track’. Whether it’s being out of your routine, additional social functions, or the demands of having the kids off school, holidays aren’t always the healthiest of times.

Make your vacation, or staycation, as healthy as possible with these tips...

Limit screen time With more time to relax, it’s easy to fall into the trap of being pulled into our devices, or allowing our kids to do the same. This isn’t always the best option, with links between screen time and health in both children, adolescents and adults. To limit your risk of type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease and promote positive mental health, limit your screen time. Read a book or listen to an audiobook or podcast instead. Better yet, try mindfulness or meditation, which is linked to positive mental wellbeing and can help manage blood pressure. If the holidays stress you out, then there’s your ideal escape!

Get outdoors Home or away, make the most of your surrounding areas. If you’re unsure of the area, ask your accommodation or tourism office for green areas, beaches and parks.

Aim to walk for at least 30 minutes per day – this can be broken down into three 10 minute blocks. It is the minimum amount of daily physical activity recommended for good health. Use your smart phone to track your steps and aim to achieve 10,000 per day but find out what your current step count is and try to increase by 1,000 steps per day each week. And when it comes to steps, the more the merrier, don’t stop at the 10,000!

Get it in early If you’ve been working hard in the gym, or on your fitness regime, don’t let this be the time you fall out of the habit and have to begin again when your holiday is over. Try and stay in your normal exercise routine while still making sure it doesn’t get in the way of anyone’s fun by getting it done early.

Set your alarm for 45 minutes before than your family or friends wake, and get in a quick workout. You’ll feel great all day and you’ll thank yourself when you’re back to reality after your holiday. Recent research has shown that even a short period of low activity, like a holiday, is enough to decrease muscle mass and alter metabolism, undoing all of your hard work and putting you at an increased risk of disease.

Damage limitation Don’t try to be perfect on holidays, life is all about balance. Keeping up your exercise routine is a good start on this, some other good ideas include: Opting for lighter alcoholic drinks; intersperse higher calorie beverages with lower calorie ones like sparkling water; keep hydrated throughout the day and eat lighter meals. Download an app such as My Fitness Pal, or keep a food diary before your holidays. All these will help limit how much you go overboard.

116 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017 000 SHIRE MAGAZINE | May/June 2017

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30/06/2017 14:17

H E A LT H M Y T H B U S T E R

SUMMER FUN OR HAY FEVER HELL?

We want to dispel some of the myths surrounding one of our favourite things... chocolate.

1. Chocolate can give you acne It is a common misconception but this particular theory has no evidence to back it up. Scientists in America have kindly tested the suggestion by feeding a group of people with a combination of chocolate bars, some with 10 times the normal amount of chocolate in, some with fake chocolate in. The result? Absolutley no difference in the acne.

For many, summer can mean a season of sneezing, itching and misery. Read our advice to help tackle the symptoms of hayfever tablet or liquid form, which can help to The long, warm days of summer might relieve a runny nose, sneezing, itching and appeal to most of us but for around 13 watery eyes. Some antihistamines make million of the population the season you drowsy and are best taken before bed, brings with it an annual dread – hay fever. but others are non-sedating and available Also known as allergic rhinitis, this for adults and children reaction, or more specifically overreaction, to allergens in the 3. For short term relief, nasal air causes inflammation in sprays can be used but only ever the nose, which in turn brings ‘If you suffer for a few days at a time, unless with it a runny or stuffy nose, from hay fever it advised otherwise by a GP sneezing, red, itchy, and watery can affect sleep, eyes, that may also be swollen.

4. Soothing eye drops are In short, it’s not much fun if the ability to available from most pharmacies you suffer from hay fever. It concentrate at and offer great relief for itchy or can affect sleep, the ability to work or school watery eyes concentrate at work or school and irritate and many sufferers also struggle asthma and 5. A GP may prescribe steroid with asthma, dermatitis and dermatitis too’ treatments if other solutions are swelling around the eyes. not proving effective Some people’s reactions are triggered by grass or hay pollen, 6. Saline solutions may help clear the others by trees, flowers and weeds – passages of allergens. Your GP or between them all it can be a long summer pharmacist can advise on how for those that really suffer but there are best to use and suitability several different ways to treat and control the symptoms: 7. Reduce symptoms gradually by building up 1. Steroid nasal sprays may help to immunity by taking small prevent or reduce inflammation in the doses of whatever you are lining of the nose and although many allergic to and increasing it people are put off by the thought of over several years. This is using steroids it is worth noting that they not suitable for everyone are absorbed into the nasal area and do but could help the immune not pass into the rest of the body. They system from overreacting provide an effective treatment for many to whatever is causing the people and can help to relieve watery eyes hay fever – a GP would be able to advise on whether 2. The most common treatment for hay this is a good option. fever is taking antihistamines either in

2. Chocolate can be good for you Sorry to say, but this very appealing theory also lacks scientific proof.

Chocolate’s main ingredient, cocoa beans, do contain naturally occurring polyphenols and there is some evidence that this help reduce blood pressure and have antioxidant properties. And yes, the darker the chocolate, the more cocoa. But here’s the thing that there’s no getting away from – chocolate is high in sugar and saturated fat. This high-energy, high calorie food can result in excess weight, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

Sadly, it’s more bad stuff than good stuff.

3. Chocolate is addictive There’s no evidence that chocolate causes a physical addiction. Our feelings about chocolate tend be extreme as we often associate it with comfort, reward and celebration. When we eat sweet and highfat foods, serotonin is released, making us feel happier – a feeling we crave – so that desire can become linked to an extreme craving for chocolate, making us believe that we are in fact chocoholics.

It’s interesting to note that broccoli also contains these potentially mood-altering substances but not many people claim addicted to it!

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 117

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30/06/2017 17:17

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Magazine...

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the Wirral, Shropshire and Herefordshire. We have a wealth of experience within the advertising field, and working closely with our editorial team, we can work together to give your business unparalleled access to local customers • Huge local readership • Fantastic quality • Lowest rates per reader

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SHIRE magazine has 40,000 copies printed, and every copy is picked up from our stands – none are left, meaning each copy is seen by over 100,000 local readers.

This title has a hugely bigger readership, distribution and audience size, and is available in more outlets and stands, than any other magazine in this region.

The magazine is not for profit, and invests every penny into print and distribution.

Every copy is actively picked up by our readers, keen to grab the new issue, rather than something they didn’t want, put through their letterbox and put straight into the recycling bin! This is a magazine readers can’t believe is free.

With our extensive What’s On section covering two months of events, readers keep hold of copies and share with their family and friends – its dipped into time and again.

The SHIRE editorial team are here to give all advertisers editorial coverage as free extra space. They want to shout about what you do!

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SHIRE magazine has the lowest cost per reader of any title in the region. Think about it: an advert for £50 is actually very expensive if the magazine only has 1,000 readers!

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We don't believe in hard sell. We create bespoke packages for businesses that take advantage of the lowest possible rates combined with editorial coverage.

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90% of copies are displayed in major Get supermarkets with the highest footfall, in touch but we’re also distributed to theatres, now to out mor find venues, visitor attractions, farm e! can reac You shops, hotels, shopping centres, h this fantas hospitals and colleges.

SHIRE magazine distribution

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istribution is carried out by specialist companies who service and monitor each stand every week.

40,000 copies of SHIRE MAGAZINE are picked up from: North Wales, including Wrexham, Flint, Mold, Ruthin, Denbigh, Rhyl, Prestatyn, Abergele, Colwyn Bay, Llandudno, Llandudno Junction,

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30/06/2017 14:51

SCHOOL NEWS

TOP OF THE CLASS From trips to Buckingham Palace to eco-build success, read our round-up of news and achievements from the students and teaching staff at the schools, colleges and universities across our region

ECO-DOME PROGRESS

W

The football coaches of the future

FOOTBALL COACHING DEGREE SCORES SUPPORT

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football coaching degree has won new support as the soccer season draws to a close.

The BSc Football Coaching and the Performance Specialist degree at Wrexham Glyndwr University is in strong shape for 2017/18 after a rise in recruitment.

Lecturer Sara Hilton says the course welcomes applications from all individuals interested in pursuing a career in football, whether it be as a coach, physiologist, psychologist or performance analyst.

‘It’s an exciting time to pursue a career in sport. If people are interested they can should apply for the course,’ said Sara, 25,

named Performance Coach of the Year at the FA Wales (FAW) Community Awards 2016. ‘The response to the first year has been fantastic. It’s fair to say football is still a male-dominated sport – and the majority on the course are men – but the women’s game is growing in popularity and we do have a female on the degree already.’ www.glyndwr.ac.uk

ork has recently started on building the first eco-dome, outdoor classroom, at The Marches School as part of a conservation project, much to the students delight.

The Eden Project-style ecodomes funded by the Tesco ‘Bags of Help’ initiative and sponsored

by Tesni Homes, Woodhead Oswestry Sales and Lettings, Carbon Zero and Gemma’s Premier convenience store has begun to take shape in the grounds of the school.

The project will convert a disused piece of land on the school grounds into a landscaped area occupied by three dome shaped classrooms to enhance the students’ learning and

understanding of conservation, the environment and wildlife habitats. Teacher and ecocommittee leader Miss Richards, comments: ‘It’s great to see the hard work and fundraising efforts starting to take shape.

We visited the site this week to see what we’ve been working towards, they were all excited to explore the development and get planning for the future.’

The eco-dome is taking shape

NSC agriculture students take off on New Zealand study tour well as popular tourist areas of the North Island and got the opportunity to focus on practical skills such as; fencing, chainsaws, butchery and

Students get hands-on tutoring

Moor Park’s super scholarship success

P

‘Our established culture upils at Moor Park prep school of kindness combined with near Ludlow have secured dedicated staff who really an amazing 34 scholarships and care about what they do, both exhibitions as 35 students come to in and out of the classroom, the end of Year 8. produces children with the Last year’s 18 leavers won confidence, knowledge and 14 awards, but this year’s group skill to succeed have topped even at their next this remarkable schools and in statistic. the wider world,’ Scholarships were said headmaster won in academics, at Moor Park, sport, music, art, Charlie Minogue. drama and DT. Pupils success at Moor Park

A once-in-a-lifetime experience

L

evel 3 Agriculture students from the Walford Campus of North Shropshire College (NSC) have spent three weeks on a study tour in New Zealand.

The group of 17 spent their time at Taratahi Agricultural College, near Masterton in the North Island which owns and manages on behalf of partners, over 50,000 sheep, cattle and deer as well as 2,500 dairy cows. Students visited sheep, deer, goat and dairy farms, as

Getting hands-on at the college

quad biking with the Taratahi College instructors. Roger Morris agriculture instructor comments: ‘The students were in their element and the general opinion was that we weren’t there long enough!’

SCHOLARSHIP JOY FOR PRESTFELDE

A

n independent prep school in Shrewsbury is celebrating after no less than 26 pupils achieved 13+ scholarships to a number of high profile secondary schools and colleges.

The youngsters from Prestfelde School impressed across a range of academic, music, art and sporting scholarships, winning places at

Shrewsbury School, Moreton Hall, Malvern College, Concord College, Oakham School and Wrekin College.

Head of Prestfelde, Fiona Orchard, led the congratulations to the children on a fantastic set of results: ‘We’re so pleased for the children because they worked so hard, these results are very much deserved,’ she said.

Flying high: pupils enjoy scholarship success

‘Working towards a scholarship is a lot of extra commitment on top of their schoolwork and

we’re delighted that so many havemade it to their chosen schools. A huge well done to all.’

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 119

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SCHOOL NEWS

ROYAL RESULT FOR RYDAL PENRHOS PUPILS

The swim team are victorious

Gréta Horváthová with her award

Medal haul and journo prize for students

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swestry School pupils are celebrating success in the pool and out this term.

The swim team took part in the Shropshire County Secondary Schools Swimming Gala held at Thomas Telford School returning home with an array of medals and personal best times. Third form pupil Dan Counter swam 100m butterfly and took home a three second personal best and a silver medal too. Fifth form pupil Alistair Moss swam in both 100m backstroke and 100m freestyle winning another silver medal for the team. At senior level Michael Doyle dominated the 100m breaststroke race pocketing a

gold medal while finishing the 200m individual medley with a three second personal best time and a silver medal losing only to a swimmer ranked third in the country. Joseph Law took bronze in the 100m freestyle with a personal best time.

Manwhile, lower sixth form pupil Gréta Horváthová has been awarded a runnerup prize in the British Science Association ‘Science Journalism’ competition. Her 500-word piece explaining the work of her chosen scientist to a lay audience was based on the topic of landmines. She was awarded a runners up prize and has been published on the BSA Manchester branch blog.

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number of Rydal Penrhos pupils visited Buckingham Palace recently to receive their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Jack Sissons and twins Will and Katie Marston, were handed the prestigious honour at the event, also attended by HRH Prince Phillip in what is expected to be his final DofE appearance before retiring from public duties.

The trio had the chance to speak with the Prince after receiving their award, and they also got the chance to speak to BBC Breakfast

presenters Carol Kirkwood and Steph McGovern. Olympic rower Jessica Eddie was also on hand to present the certificates.

Former Rydal Penrhos pupil, Vicky Thornley, 29, won a gold medal in the single sculls at the European Rowing Championships in Racice.

Her expertly judged success added to three bronze medals from the women’s team, while the men’s squad were dogged by illness and injury, finishing below the podium.

DoE Gold Award for students

Vicky Thornley

Football icon congratulates his old school on new £12,000 playground

PRINCES AND PALACES FOR SHREWSBURY HIGH SCHOOL LEAVERS

H

alf a dozen recent leavers from Shrewsbury High School visited the palace recently for a Gold DofE presentation.

The Duke of Edinburgh himself was present at what will be his last DofE public engagement and the group felt very privileged to be present on this occasion. He addressed a group of young people from across Shropshire and TV presenter Steph McGovern presented the certificates.

Shrewsbury High School made a great impression gaining six Golds from the 50 awarded on the day and these went to Eleanor Fallows, Emma Wycherley, Nicole Fisher, Martha Pickles, Ellie Davies and

Rachael Cooper. Mr Brown was invited as a special guest of the West Midlands Region to mark 20 years of service as award unit leader and head of expeditions.

Sixth formers and language students Sophie Birtles and Honor Bailey have won places on the Modern Languages High Achievers’ Summer School at the University of Nottingham.

The programme consists of academic taster sessions, a team project, social activities and admissions guidance. Those who successfully complete the programme will be awarded a certificate and given an unconditional offer to study MFL at the University of Nottingham if they apply.

The DoE award winners

Sixth formers Sophie Birtles and Honor Bailey

Students enjoyed a trip to the Palace

The new playground is a big hit

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elsh international football star Owain Fôn Williams has sent his heartfelt congratulations to his former primary school as it unveiled a new £12,000 playground.

The giant goalkeeper, who plays for Scottish Premiership club Inverness Caledonian Thistle and was one of Wales’ Euro 2016 heroes, said the outdoor facility at Ysgol Bro Lleu in Penygroes, Caernarfon, which was designed, built and manufactured by family firm Creative Play, would encourage children to keep active and increase their self-confidence.

The six foot four inch 29-year-old, an accomplished painter who grew up in the village and attended the local school, said he was proud to count himself among its former pupils and said the new ‘first class’ facilities would encourage a new generation of sports stars.

‘I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to Ysgol Bro Lleu on its fantastic new playground facility which will help to keep children inspired

and active during the school day,’ he said. ‘Ysgol Bro Lleu is a wonderful school and I’m proud to be among its former pupils. This new addition will not only help boost the pupils’ interest in sport and their selfconfidence but will ensure they receive plenty of opportunity to get out and enjoy the fresh Welsh air.’

Spread over a 20x25m grass area, the playground stands at the bottom of the school field and was funded via a grant through Tesco’s 5p carrier bag scheme. This charity project sees the supermarket reinvesting money generated from the 5p cost of carrier bags into community projects.

The school was selected for an £8,000 grant but increased its funding to the maximum £12,000 after receiving the most tokens from voting shoppers instore. ‘We never expected such a huge impact. We’ve even had children from the secondary school coming down to have a go,’ said Headteacher Gerallt Jones.

Keeping fit and having fun

120 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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ADVICE & GUIDANCE EVENT

WEDNESDAY 30TH AUGUST 4PM - 8PM

Aspire (Nr Burford), Oswestry Campus, Shipley Campus (Next to Gardenlands) & Walford Campus (Nr Shrewsbury) • Tutors will be available to provide advice throughout the evening • View the facilities and sign up on the night!

• School leavers and Adults welcome • No need to book just drop in between 4pm & 8pm

Whatever your GCSE results, NSC has a course for you!

IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO COME & DISCUSS YOUR FUTURE WITH US

More than just an education...

Learning • Living • Leading • Listening

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Start your journey and see how we can make your child #RealiseTheirPotential To book a tour or for more information call 01492 530155 or email admissions@rydalpenrhos.com

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Contact Brian Stone 01691 652 956 brianstone212@btinternet.com If you want to learn to play the

contact BRIAN STONE. He offers one-to-one tuition in a music studio based in Oswestry. Brian has over 50 years of tuition (including teaching Adrian Spillett, BBC’s Young Musician of the Year), performing, composing and conducting experience, and has been an examiner for the Guildhall for 17 years and for the LCM for 9 years.

Brian has taught at Ellesmere College, Oswestry School, Packwood, Moreton Hall and most schools in north Shropshire, and currently plays in various bands, groups and orchestras and conducts nine percussion ensembles with an age range from 7 to 60.

Brian Stone Telephone: 01691 652 956 Email: brianstone212@btinternet.com

08/02/2017 09:06

30/06/2017 16:00

POETRY & BOOKS

Taking Off

EVENTS

As I sit here in 11D it is the one for me But others boarding this large jet can’t fathom where to be The Pilot says if we are quick our take off slot we’ll meet But as it is four minutes hence that trick would be quite neat What’s this? I hear the click of a door, we seem to be complete And hey! We’re moving to the runway I just cannot speak No sooner said, we lift above through clouds up to blue sky A God like hand gives us a shove and onwards we now fly Brian Stone

A slip of paper Feathered down as I opened the charity shop book; Malta 1915 – lines from a soldier yearning for home despite the warmth and the calm, turquoise sea Memories of a place between the Mersey and the Dee

8th August Tickets are available for an evening in the company of one of our most celebrated contemporary writers, Matt Haig, who returns to Booka to talk about his highly anticipated new novel How to Stop Time. Matt is the bestselling author of The Humans, Reasons to Stay Alive and The Radleys, as well as children’s books and screenplays.

Booka Bookshop, Oswestry, 7pm for 7.30pm £5 (redeemable against a signed copy of How to Stop Time) 2nd August Don’t miss an evening in the company of bestselling author, Sarah Winman, as she talks ‘in conversation’ about her unforgettable new novel, Tin Man. It begins with a painting won in a raffle: fifteen sunflowers, hung on the wall by a woman who believes that men and boys are capable of beautiful things.

He wanted to see it all again in another life, on another day Blood-red sunsets, smack of salt spray, myriad seabirds – their glistening swoop and call Waiting for war to end, hoping that nothing had changed His words spoke to me – a local girl, from a peninsula with promenades and country walks, bustling towns, Domesday villages and historic places Populous estates contrasting with open, green spaces Over a century since he shared his hopes and dreams I think of him as a true Wirralian – just like me; my own dream is that he did, one day, return to his longed-for home between the Mersey and the Dee Edna Crosby, 2015

Booka Bookshop, Oswestry, 7pm for 7.30pm. £5 (redeemable against a signed copy Tin Man) 11th July Author, journalist and creative writing teacher Erin Kelly will be visiting Linghams in Heswall, on the Wirral, to talk about her latest work. Best known for her TV dramas, Erin’s first novel The Poison Tree became a major ITV drama and a Richard & Judy bestseller, and was longlisted for the 2011 CWA John Creasy Award. The Sick Rose, The Burning Air and The Ties That Bind were all published to critical acclaim and 2014 she wrote the novelisation of the BAFTA-winning Broadchurch.

Times and prices TBC. Visit www.linghams.co.uk or call 0151 342 7290 for further details.

Our World In this rushing life of ours Do we stop and watch the stars?

Stand in awe of mountains high, Look upwards to a reddening sky?

Wonder at the world out there And, all the people with whom we share This great universe of ours, Every four and twenty hours All are different, colour, creed Can’t we find a common need Of treasuring life, who err we are Not hating, killing near and far Solutions are hard to find All we want is peace of mind Patricia Parker

Such a great new publication Hours of reading; great location Ideas where you might want to go Rural, town or city-based shows Everything you want and more Shire magazine begins your tour Maxine Burton

17th August Don’t miss this exclusive evening with Philippa Gregory – her only appearance in the north – to talk about her latest historical book, The Last Tudor, which follows the lives of the three Grey sisters, Jane, Mary and Katherine. A successful novelist for over 30 years, Philippa has produced dozens of novels, several of which has been adapted for screen and many of which has won top awards.

3pm, Thornton Hall Hotel and Spa, Neston Road, Thornton Hough, Wirral CH63 1JF

All summer

r

Throughout the summer Conwy’s regular Book and Print Fairs will continue to be held giving booklovers the chance to find rare and special pieces of writing. Main exhibitors from The Junction Book Shop on Conway Road will be there every time with a range of first, second hand and antiquarian books. Dates already confirmed include 5th and 6th July, 19th and 20th July, 9th and 10th August, 23rd and 24th August.

St. Mary’s Church Hall, Rose Hill St, Conwy, LL32 8LD Admission is free

122 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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BOOKS

Magic and myth in the ‘Shirelands’

H

ilary Jane Jones and Tracey Swain are two Shropshire women whose beautiful books are inspired by the myths, landscapes and legends that abound in our stunning Shires and along the Welsh Borderlands. Brought together by fate, they met at a paranormal evening at Burway Books in Church Stretton, then bumped into each other again on a windswept Tracey Swain and Hilary Jones Shropshire ridge. It was clearly a partnership that was meant to be.

Hilary is a poet who loves to tell tales in rhyme, and Tracey is a photographer whose work has been described as ‘painting with light’. They discovered a shared love and respect for the beauty of nature, coupled with a fascination for fairy tales, fantasy and mystery.

The pair have brought their different talents together to create stunning anthologies that bring their world to life through words and photographs, often capturing more than first meets the eye. The combination of Tracey’s evocative images and Hilary’s imaginative words resulted in a series of books ready for publication – so there was only one natural next step for the women. They founded Briar Ridge Books in 2012 to publish their combined work, to share their love for the beauty and magic of Mother Nature in a new and exciting way, and to encourage adults

and children alike to reconnect with the natural world.

They now have published four books: Shirelands, which features individual poems and photographs, while the other three form The Journey trilogy comprising The Wicked Wood, The Faerie Glen, and the recently published The Crystal Lake. They are passionate about supporting local businesses: the books were printed at Gomer Press in Mid-Wales, and are stocked in many of their local bookshops and other independent shops. ‘Shirelands is inspired by some of the loveliest scenery in the world, set in Shropshire and along the Welsh Borders. Each photograph was especially chosen to celebrate the enduring beauty of this area, while each poem brings out the emotions that the individual photograph inspires. Sunrises, sunsets, nature’s seasons, love, loss, hope, fantasy and the joys of childhood… and much more,’ says Tracey.

Hilary adds: ‘As children most of us had vivid imaginations, but as we grew up we lost our inner child, our freedom to play and to imagine strange and wonderful worlds. Our sense of adventure became dulled and we lost something of the magic and mystery of our surroundings as we led much more hectic lives.

The Journey recaptures some of that magical sense of wonder in a lyrical tale woven through Mother Nature’s reality, where the narrator, and reader, choose what to see and believe within the unfolding mystery of the landscape.’ www.briarridgebooks.co.uk

REVIEW

Shire Magazine is delighted to once again offer some reading suggestions put together by our friends at Linghams independent bookstore, Heswall Three sisters, Three Queens Philippa Gregory, £8.99 Philippa is one of my favourite authors and her latest book out in paperback continues with the Tudor theme and will not disappoint. When Katherine of Aragon is brought to the Tudor court as a young bride, the oldest princess, Margaret, takes her measure. With one look, each knows the other for a rival, an ally, a pawn, destined – with Margaret’s younger sister Mary – to a sisterhood unique in all the world.

The three sisters will become the queens of England, Scotland and France. It is fast-paced filled with love, honour and revenge.

Fierce Kingdom Gin Phillips, £12.99 Joan and her young son find themselves in peril during a trip to the zoo. They run, they hide for over three hours and Joan has to use instinct and wit to keep them alive. She has to make unimaginable choices.

I was exhausted afterwards!

Essential summer reading.

Love like Blood Mark Billingham, £18.99 Hard hitting crime author Mark Billingham tackles honour killings in this DI Tom Thorne novel. DI Nicola Tanner is investigating a series of organised murders when her own partner, Susan, is brutally killed as well. Can Thorne solve the mystery?

(Signed copies available in store).

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 123

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CHARITIES AND VOLUNTEERING

Special centre brings riding joy for little Maks independently-owned veterinary gave me another insight seeing group. Kate, equine partner at first-hand the enjoyment and the Centre, said the practice dramatic benefits which families had a long standing partnership who use the centre are able to with the 30-acre Clwyd Special experience. It highlights the Riding Centre, helping to look fantastic work they do and we’re after the health of the charity’s pleased to be able to do our bit 24 horses. The centre offers a to support it in some way.’ variety of equine experiences Maks attends Ysgol Pen including riding, Coch in Flint and lives GET IN carriage driving, with his younger TOUCH equestrian vaulting, brother Marcel, two,

Equine vet Kate Sumner and Jenny Watson of Hampton Veterinary Centre with five-year-old Maks Butrym at Clwyd Special Riding Centre

A

LITTLE boy with cerebral palsy has met up with a Malpas vet who helped raise money for the riding centre where he takes part in an unusual form of physiotherapy.

The parents of five-yearold Maks Butrym, from Ewloe, were warned he may never walk after he developed the condition following his premature birth at just 25 weeks weighing just one pound

Maks aged just three weeks old.

and four ounces.Little Maks has battled through a series of health problems including two serious infections as a baby which left him with cerebral palsy, a visual impairment and other special needs. But despite all this, the happy youngster is

now enjoying a weekly horse riding lesson which incorporates

Are you involved learning and dad Jacek, 33, who with a charity that therapy for people is his full time carer needs publicity? of all ages with and his mum Aneta, Email editorial@ additional and often 32: ‘Maks loves shiremagazine. complex needs. riding and not just co.uk ‘The breadth and the therapy. He enjoys scope of what the centre being around the horses. He offers is very impressive, the can have a bit of happy time, team who work there are great improve and develop just like and the horses are always well any other child. No matter what turned out and looked after problems your child has, if you which makes working with can see he is happy and enjoying the centre a real pleasure and something in his life then that it’s why I nominated them,’ is what it’s all about.’ www. she explains. ‘Meeting Maks clwydspecialridingcentre.co.uk

Maks first smile at 8 months old is captured on camera by mum Aneta while his Dad Jacek was singing to him

a type of physiotherapy, called Hippotherapy, run by expert Lynne Munro, at Clwyd Special Riding Centre in Llanfynydd, near Wrexham. The specialist therapy uses the movement of the horse to provide therapeutic movement to the rider, with the aim of improving coordination, balance and core strength.

Clwyd Special Riding Centre received an £800 donation from Willows Veterinary Group via equine vet Kate Sumner of Hampton Veterinary Centre in Malpas which is part of the

Willows Veterinary Group made an £800 donation to Clwyd Special Riding Centre. From left to right; Ann Lambert, Chair of Trustees CSRC, Lynn Bradley, a CSRC Volunteer, Sorrel Taylor, CSRC Centre Manager, Maks’ Dad Jacek, Maks, Lynne Munro and Kate Sumner and Jenny Watson of Hampton Veterinary Centre

In the driving seat

Servicemen of the Royal Welsh regiment, past and present are coming together for a charity football match to raise funds for Help for Heroes and Blind Veterans UK on 30th July at Llandudno FC. With a bouncy castle, face painting, games and raffles. From 12pm. DJ, bar, auction and refreshments. Tickets only cost £1, kids go free.

The North Wales Group of Advanced Motorists has launched a scheme this year to train 20 young drivers for the IAM RoadSmart Advanced Driving course.

The package normally costs £149 and the associate member will pay this upfront.

If they then complete all their training and take the test, they will be refunded in full through the generosity of the

Gwyn Y Mor community fund.

This scheme is open to all drivers living along the North Wales Coast aged 25 or under. IAM RoadSmart has been training drivers for 60 years and the North Wales Group is this year celebrating its 40th anniversary.

Drivers undertake the course behind the wheel of their car with a trained observer sitting alongside them coaching on

how to deal with everyday hazards using a system called Roadcraft. Call Mike RedfernJones on 07768 946129.

124 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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WEM

TOWN VISIT

A sweet town with a spooky spectre Wem has an interesting and rich history – with a few surprises along the way.

Shire Magazine takes a tour to see what’s on offer to see, do and explore...

Home of the beautiful sweet pea

T

he small market town of Wem is nine miles north of Shrewsbury and home to a population of approximately 8,000 people. It is popular for its rural, but accessible nature, being situated on the train line between Shrewsbury and Crewe, and there is evidence of settlers having been here since before the Roman conquest of Britain.

Wem has seen its share of war

The name Wem is derived from Wamm, the Saxon word meaning marsh or marshy area, such as that surrounding the

town. However, Wem is thought to have been established by Iron Age communities and was mentioned in the Domesday book. Having become a market town in 1202, it has remained one ever since, with a popular weekly gathering as well as an attractive selection of small permanent shops and businesses.

Although many historic buildings can still be admired Henry Eckford back in 1882 in the town, a number of the traditional wooden structures is celebrated with both a road were destroyed by fire in 1677 and park named after Eckford, a and many more were lost during Sweet Pea Society in its honour the War of the Roses. Wem was and even an annual festival to a Parliamentarian stronghold salute the humble sweet pea that during the English Civil War brings an explosion of colour to and managed to hold off an the town in summer. attack by 5,000 Royalists under Wem is also known for its Lord Capel – but only after its early brewing industry established home army of in 1700. 200 years 40 townsmen later the Wem One of the town’s most was swelled by Brewery Co was infamous residents is ‘the ranks of local trading on a larger Wem Ghost.’ An image womenfolk who taken in 1995 to show a fire scale, was taken were supposedly that destroyed Wem Town over by Greenhall Hall actually revealed the responsible for Whitley before the success of the ghostly apparition! closing down in defence.

1988.

In modern history Wem One of the town’s most has become famous for several infamous residents is ‘the Wem very specific things – one of Ghost.’ An image taken in the most famous being the 1995 to show a fire that actually invention of the sweet pea destroyed Wem Town Hall, flower. It was first invented revealed the ghostly apparition. and bred by Henry Eckford, The amateur photographer a nursery man who established responsible appeared to the Eckford Sweet Pea in 1882 have captured the haunting and began developing several figure of a young woman in more varieties. Today the flower the window of the burning building, wearing old fashioned clothes, and right up until his death in 2005 he vouched for the authenticity of the image.

The ghost is just one of the myths and legends celebrated in Wem’s unique Mythstories Museum of Myth & Fable, located in the town. Today Wem is a real hub and prides itself on its warm, welcome and friendly service and it’s laidback leisurely pace of life.

Z AC

‘It’s a good community here, the people in Wem are quality!’

PA U L

‘I moved to Wem five years ago, it’s the friendliest place I’ve ever lived. There is loads going on at places like the Town Hall.

The Wem Carnival on the first Saturday each September is best!’

STEVE

Nice friendly town, I still visit even though I moved to Telford a couple of years ago. For the summer Sweet Pea Festival, you wouldn’t believe how many people come into town!’

ALA

N

I’ve lived here all my life, and travelling a lot for work (as a pilot) I’ve always found it’s very nice to come back to’

THINGS TO SEE AND DO Hawkstone Park Golf Course, Nr Wem, Shropshire, SY4 5UY Tel: 01948 841700 www.hawkstone.co.uk Soul Bird Gallery, Wem, Shropshire, SY4 5AA Tel: 01939 236814 demorgan01@btinternet.com Hawkstone Park Follies, Nr Wem, Shropshire, SY4 5UY Tel: 01948 841700 www.hawkstoneparkfollies.co.uk Mythstories Museum, Aston St, Wem, Shrewsbury SY4 5AU Tel: 01939 235500 www.mythstories.com

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 125

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What’s in your Stars?

Aries: 20th March - 20th April

Conflict arises because various parts of the personality often give different values to events so you have to understand the meaning of what’s happening around you now. For some time, changes going on in your life have given rise to uncertainty and it’s a question of going with your heart or head. Why not both? They’re inexplicably linked after all.

Cancer: 21st June - 23rd July Waterlilies shut their flowers at night and retreat so far into the water that they cannot be reached by hand. You bear these traits when hurt or shy but often the hurt’s imagined as is the case now. Choose not to be so sensitive, be more approachable when a hand is proffered, you never know, you may need it again.

Libra: 23rd September - 22nd October

You find beauty and grace in people with whom others wouldn’t want to share a short car journey and this often means you Librans end up being the one taken for a ride! So bear this in mind during the summer and beyond, do not compromise what matters to you just to please others.

Make this your personal proverb!

Capricorn: 21st December - 20th January

Something trivial can upset and then become a colossal issue. You’ve ascended and descended so many mountains so must be longing for some even ground.

Those heights can be chilly places where you express a frosty face which can freeze another at ten paces! Warm up Capricorn, by not taking things so seriously you’ll find life so much sunnier.

Taurus: 20th April - 21st May

Riches that come from relating the celestial to the earthly nature can be found in these words applying to you now: it’s not what you do it’s how you do it. Eclipses are power points challenging you this high summer so be careful of indifference to another’s values and instead show that you’re giving thought to what they say.

Gemini: 21st May - 21st June

You’re the firefly of the zodiac, always around but never for long because you need so much variety. Perseverance is a word and quality alien to you but it’s needed to apply to your closest relationships as the full moon waxes in Aquarius bringing an eclipse. This lunar energy requires more dedication to one close and less flitting around, for now!

Leo: 23rd July - 23rd August The test of good manners is being patient with bad ones. You’re a noble sign so you must not resort to the behaviour being shown by lesser deities now. Optimists say all are equal but this doesn’t apply when confidence is being undermined. Rise above challenges and consider that criticism is not just a question of taste, but whose taste?

Scorpio: 23rd October - 22nd November

Your Polar sign is Taurus and at present some of its characteristics can help you overcome a difficulty in your life. Your powerful energy is like a force field around you so express less Scorpionic intensity and more easy-going Taurean placidity. This will help someone close come to terms with an issue they feel you are trying to dominate.

Aquarius: 20th January - 19th February

The Mayan culture believed nature was a living entity continually renewing itself, we call it the ‘tropical year’ in which seasons are formed. There’s also the ‘lunar year’ where the full moon revisits each sign, this August it waxes again in Aquarius, giving you an opportunity to look back and bring closure to an emotional issue allowing a renaissance to take place.

Virgo: 23rd August - 23rd September

Remember the fable of the Hare and the Tortoise? The tortoise won the day because he wouldn’t give up! Stick to the task in hand now and keep going in the face of opposition and even if things are moving too slowly it’s because what you’re attempting will only be accomplished by sheer doggedness of spirit not foregone conclusion.

Sagittarius: 22nd November - 21st December

In fairyland there’s said to be no concept of time, in space time is meaningless but on planet Earth we run our lives on tight time schedules to such a point that often it’s impossible to keep up. If you’ve been promising more than you can deliver try reassessing and revising some plans. Don’t run against time, run with it!

Pisces: 18th Feb - 20th March Such contrasting two months for you highlighting your need to escape from what appears as lack of vision, either someone else’s or yours. Hard determining which when your sign ruler Neptune seemingly reverses in the heavens although it’s just an optical illusion. Perhaps you only need to define your boundaries which have recently become a bit blurred at the edges!

Gloria studied astrology and astronomy over an intensive two year period at The Faculty of Astrological Studies in London twenty seven years ago. She has since written for many publications, appeared numerous times on television and has an impressive client list. The legendary Fay Weldon calls her ‘magic’ and the BBC’s icon Valerie Singleton calls her ‘sensitive’. You can reach her on starglow@pc-q. net or through her website: www.gloriamans.com 126 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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FAMILY

Positive points for the

DREADED DEVICES Children are spending increasingly longer periods of time on mobile devices. However, if used in the right way and with the right technology, these devices can change lives for the better.

Nathan Roberts, senior lecturer in computing at Glyndwr University unveils an exciting new project between the institution and local charity Dynamic DID YOU KNOW? Children aged project is immensely valuable to both five to 16 spend ourselves and Dynamic. approx 6.5 hours It promises to improve the lives of a day in front young people with disabilities, while of a screen providing hands-on experience of the

looking at for some time.

We have incorporated VR into degrees and we’re joining forces with other departments at the university to bring ‘reallife’ scenarios to the classroom.

In collaboration with Dynamic, we’ve been looking to combine exciting virtual reality gaming with exercise to turbocharge the rehabilitation of young adults with disabilities.

We were already delivering a groundbreaking scheme with Myddelton College in Denbigh to deliver innovative virtual and augmented reality scenarios in an education setting as part of the Microsoft Showcase Schools initiative.

application of virtual reality technology for our students.

The project has already involved students engaging with the charity and stroke and head injury patients to identify users’ needs and requirements.

From this information we have started to develop several prototype games that will use both custom sensors and VR to deliver a truly immersive but fun way to exercise.

INTER-ACTIVE EXERCISE

A

t the University we love to collaborate; bringing together community groups, charities, academic partners and businesses to support our students and give something back to the area.

We also know that while the evenings are lighter and the days warmer, many parents struggle to get their children out and about in the fresh air, because they’re glued to the latest mobile device.

It’s all about creating a balance, and realising that technology can have a hugely positive impact on the lives of this and future generations.

We do that through research, game design and interactive learning environments but also practical initiatives like the one we have been working on with Dynamic, an organisation which provides activities via after school and holiday clubs to enhance the quality of life of children living in the Wrexham area.

Virtual reality is something we have been

Having received a grant of £20,000 from the Welsh Government’s Intermediate Care Fund, our team has now started looking at how best it could make a difference to people who struggle to find time to be active or exercise due to issues including weakness, lack of control, fear of falling and pain.

The project will remove the boredom which children with disabilities have with static exercise apparatus by creating sensors which attach to exercise equipment, then data from the sensors will be fed into a game engine, creating virtual reality scenarios which will make their exercise more fun and interactive.

The VR scenarios will distract the brain from the fear and pain of exercise, boosting the confidence and mobility of children and young adults with disabilities.

The funding will be used to purchase new equipment including four HTC Vive’s – market-leading virtual reality hardware – 3D printers, sensors and power PCs. This innovative real-world

Users will be able to attach the custom sensor units to any exercise equipment to provide them with an interactive gaming environment – it’s an amazing idea and we are so proud to be developing it in collaboration with Dynamic.

Find out more about computing at Wrexham Glyndwr University at www.glyndwr.ac.uk.

July/August 2017 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 127

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We’ve been delighted to receive several letters from our readers already, with only one edition out there, so have included a selection of them below. Please do keep them coming in as we love to hear from you and we hope this is a section that will grow with each and every issue. You can email us at editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk or post a letter, and don’t forget to include a photograph if it is relevant to your letter – a good quality one will make it easiest to reproduce. To receive the current issue by post, just send us a SAE with £1.60 of postage, for second class delivery.

Many of our eagle-eyed readers were quick to point out a mistake in the caption of our front cover picture on the May/June edition. We can only apologise for trusting the details that came from the picture agency when we received the image and assure you that we will endeavour to double-check in future. And if we don’t, we’re pretty sure you’ll let us know!

Thanks to everyone who took time to correct us, some of which have been included here.

Dear Editor Did you know that the little community shop in Pwllglas, near Ruthin, has been voted ‘Best local shop in the UK’?

The award was presented at the NEC on 24th April at the Farm Shop and Deli Show (organised by The Grocer Magazine).

The shop also received the Wales Regional Award for best Welsh local shop. The shop was only opened four years ago, so it’s a great accolade and was given after consumer voting, judging day, and secret visits.

I think this would make a great article for your magazine. The manager of the shop, Rhian Jones only took over running the shop in January this year, and has many new ideas to take the shop onwards to better

Send your requests, letters, thoughts and comments to the address below.

Keep sending in your letters and pictures!

Write to us at: Shire Magazine, Superstar Publishing Ltd, PO Box 276, Oswestry Shropshire SY10 1FR

Dear Editor Congratulations upon your new magazine Shire which I have enjoyed reading, but I have to point out one error and it’s a big one. The picture on the front of your magazine is NOT the Grosvenor Bridge, which is a single span stone arch bridge.

The one on your cover is the medieval Old Dee Bridge, which crosses the River Dee from Lower Bridge Street to Handbridge, Chester Wishing you continued success with your new magazine.

Kind regards Mrs Noel Glover

things. She always gives credit to those who have helped the shop in the past, and to all the volunteers, loyal customers and suppliers. The shop is run mainly by volunteers, of all ages, i.e., by the community for the community.

Regards, Gina Povey

Dear Editor I’ve just picked up the May/ June dated issue, haven’t read it yet but have noticed a mistake on the front cover! The bridge pictured is The Old Dee Bridge not Grosvenor Bridge as captioned inside. I walk over this bridge daily so recognised it straight away. The original Old Dee Bridge dates from 1086 and was rebuilt by around 1357 with seven different sized arches – the Grosvenor Bridge wasn’t started until 1832 and finished by 1834 and has a single span arch.

Just going to start reading now…

Regards Mrs Linda Woods

Thank you for letting us know about this great local asset Gina, we love hearing about independent businesses doing well in our area, especially when they’re also championing the great produce we have.

Congratulations to the shop team and keep up the good work! Shire editorial team

The award-winning Siop Pwllglas near Ruthin is the nation’s favourite!

F E E D B AC K I picked up a copy of the first edition of Shire Magazine and have to say it’s fantastic, so good to see local events and produce promoted in a really professional way. As a local author, I particularly enjoyed the stunning photography and for me the book section is the bee’s knees.

Regards, Peter Evans Just wanted to say how much I love your new magazine.

Lynn Brereton Picked up a copy of your new magazine at the Whitchurch Food and Drink Festival, and want to congratulate you on a really great publication – well done! I look forward to future copies.

Malcolm Ling I have just read the May/June issue and it’s great!

Best wishes MJ Greenhalgh I’ve received your latest edition, looks fab!

Sian Williams

Dear Editor I am loving the very informative new magazine. I have a query.

On page 129 of the last edition there was a great page of prize draws. If I make a photocopy of this page or if I download the page from the online PDF magazine please can I enter the prize draws this way? I don’t really like to rip pages out of the magazine.

Regards Mary Hockenhull Thank you so much for your letter Mary, and yes of course you can enter the competitions this way. We’re delighted to hear that you are holding our magazine in high regard and reluctant to tear it! Good luck!

Shire editorial team

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DON’T DELAY, POST TODAY

FANTASTIC TICKET COMPETITIONS Once again we have been lucky enough to gather up an amazing collection of tickets to giveaway to you, our lovely readers, in this summer edition of Shire Magazine. Have a read below to see which event appeals to you and send your entry to us using the form below or on a postcard. Make sure it reaches us before the closing date, and include your daytime phone number. Good luck!

Congratulations to our lucky winners from the May/June issue!

Vivien, Market Drayton, Tickets to Shropshire County Show

Jane, Llanymynech, Tickets for the Welshpool Railway

Moya, Tarvin, Family pass to the Shropshire Vintage Rally

Susan, Audlem, Pair of tickets to Storyhouse Theatre

Lynn, Shrewsbury, Tickets to the Gregynog Festival

Don’t forget our fab photography competition on page 94

John, Welshpool, Family pass to the Royal Welsh Show

WIN: An annual family pass for the Ironbridge Gorge Museums There are ten award-winning museums spread along the valley beside the wild River Severn. See the products that set industry on its path and the machines that made them. Special events held all year round – if you’re lucky enough to win our family pass, worth £68, you can visit them all as often as you want for 12 months.

CLOSING DATE 25th August

WIN: An annual family membership for Gregynog Hall With 750 acres of grounds with different landscapes, including its renowned Grade 1 listed formal gardens, Gregynog Hall is fabulous.

The membership, worth £25, is designed for regular visitors who enjoy walking in this beautiful estate and allows free admission to the estate and gardens, including some fantastic events.

CLOSING DATE 25th August

WIN: A pair of tickets to see Let’s Hang On at Rhyl Pavilion Playing on Saturday 2nd September at 7:30pm, worth £44. This celebration of the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons tells the tale of how four New Jersey boys from the wrong side of the tracks became one of the biggest pop sensations of all time.

CLOSING DATE 25th August

WIN: A pair of VIP tickets to the Rhyl Airshow on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th August. The world-famous Red Arrows display team are set to return to Rhyl this summer to perform at the annual Air Show. See a whole host of incredible civilian aircraft, static displays, entertainment, trade stands and exhibitions. Not to be missed!

CLOSING DATE 21st August

WIN: Two tickets, worth £16, to Ludlow Food Festival on Friday 8th, Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th September. Featuring more than 160 top quality small independent food and drink producers from Ludlow and the Marches, there’s the famous ale and sausage trails, cookery demonstrations, hands-on workshops and much, much more. Enter today!

CLOSING DATE 25th August

WIN: A pair of tickets to see Dirty Dancing at Venue Cymru from September 11th to 16th worth up to £80. Have the time of your life with the ultimate live experience, Dirty Dancing – The Classic Story on stage.

Full of passion and romance, heartpounding music and sensationally sexy dancing!

Don’t miss this amazing production.

CLOSING DATE 25th August

WIN: A £90 family day pass for two adults and two children to go to the Shrewsbury Folk Festival on any day 25th28th August.

This world famous event brings you some of most established artists from the UK alongside acts celebrating folk traditions from across the world. Be in awe of their breath-taking musical performances.

CLOSING DATE 14th August

WIN: A pair of tickets to either day of the Shrewsbury Flower Show Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th August, worth £56. One of the country’s premier flower shows, the event is packed with floral displays, competitions and entertainment.

There’s music and a firework display to end each evening. What’s more, kids go free!

CLOSING DATE 7th August

HOW TO ENTER: Simply fill in the form with your answer circled (you’ll need to read the magazine to find it!), and include your name, address and daytime contact number. Send your entry by the closing date to: Tickets Competition, Shire Magazine, PO Box 276, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY10 1FR. Winners will be notified by telephone and email so don’t forget to include both! * Question: What drink made from apples, sugar, nutmeg and beer was drunk on Twelfth Night? a) Lamb’s Wool b) Sheep’s Tooth c) Ram’s Blood

Name Address

I’d like to win tickets to:

Postcode LUDLOW FOOD FESTIVAL

GREGYNOG HALL

DIRTY DANCING

RHYL PAVILION

SHREWSBURY FOLK FESTIVAL

RHYL AIRSHOW

SHREWSBURY FLOWER SHOW

* Daytime Contact Number * Email address Please do not send me any other information

RULES OF THE COMPETITIONS DATA PROTECTION NOTICE Superstar Publishing Ltd will use your information for administration and analysis purposes and may contact you from time to time with relevant offers, information or for research purposes. Your details will not be passed on to third parties except the sponsors of these competitions. Please tick the relevant box if you do not wish to be contacted. COMPETITION RULES The promoter of these competitions is Shire Magazine, Superstar Publishing, PO Box 276, Oswestry, SY10 1FR. The competitions are open to all readers of our magazine and viewers of our websites except employees of the prize providers. The winner(s) will be the first person or persons drawn after the closing date who has completed the correct answer. No cash alternative is available. The winners names can be obtained by writing to the competition address with a self-addressed envelope after the closing date. The winner agrees to participate in any follow-up publicity and must provide a photograph to be published in the following issue to claim their prize. Superstar Publishing may print the name only of entrants to this competition in subsequent issue(s) of Shire Magazine. This is to enable competition entrants to fairly claim a promotional offer, for competition entrants only. By entering this competition you are giving permission for Shire Magazine to print your name only. No personal information will be printed. No purchase necessary, answers on a postcard are accepted.

July/August 2017

IRONBRIDGE GORGE MUSEUMS

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COMING NEXT ISSUE In our September/October issue our thoughts will be turning to autumnal times and the changing seasons will be reflected by our special features and regular contributors. Look out for the next edition, which will be available in the shops from September 8th.

Food for thought

PICK US UP AT THE SUPERMARKET FROM SEPT 8TH

PLUS:

Don’t miss our essential guide to the area’s top tastes and delicious days out as we celebrate the region’s great gastronomy with a round-up of fabulous food festivals!

Education extra

Get spooked!

As Halloween creeps closer we’ll give you the low down on ghostly goings on across the patch so prepare to be scared as we celebrate fright night... boo!

Harvest festival Our resident chef Bryn Williams will be making the most of the abundant produce as the harvest season brings a wealth of locally-grown goodies to the kitchen

As school terms restart in September, we’ll offer you a comprehensive guide to open days so you know who to visit and when – essential reading for anyone deciding on their next educational step

Your town Our next edition will feature some fantastic town visits as usual with the locations that we have chosen to feature for the September and October edition including Whitchurch, Criccieth and Hereford.

D O N ’ T F O R G E T…

Our essential guide to the biggest and best events across the area will help you plan your days out and book tickets to those special occasions and fun places to visit for all the family.

GET IN TOUCH! at Shire Magazine, we want to hear from you…

1. Tell us about your upcoming events – just remember that we work in advance so August 1st is the deadline for events news for the next issue, September/October

Weddings special If you’re getting hitched next year you can’t afford to miss our fantastic guide to the ultimate big day, with everything you need from venues to menus to help you get your nuptials organised

2. Share your reader stories – have you got an extraordinary or exciting story to tell? We’d like to feature it in the next issue to share with our readers. Send us an email, and don’t forget to include a picture or two!

3. We have lots of things for readers to contribute to – send all your submissions and information by email to editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk 3. Give us your feedback! – we love to hear any comments you have, they’re so important in helping us improve your new magazine!

130 SHIRE MAGAZINE | July/August 2017

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