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NEXT GENERATION AT THE CREASE
Cricket in the Cheshire village of Tattenhall dates back more than 150 years and now the search is on for a new generation to play the game
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Tattenhall Cricket Club near Chester was founded in 1864, the year the legendary WG Grace hit his fi rst century. And the future for the club looks rosy, with a crop of young cricketers about to take the fi eld. The club is launching its All-Stars and Dynamos age groups for fi ve- to 11-year-olds this summer, thanks to £1,000 sponsorship from law fi rm Swayne Johnson, which has an o ce on the High Street and fi ve more across north Wales. “We have a tradition of encouraging young Charlie Lawrence, 10, plays a straight bat as the fi elders – including Swayne Johnson’s Rebecca Robinson and Tattenhall club chairman Jon Beddow – close in cricketers,” says Tattenhall’s club chairman Jon Beddow. “We currently have Henry Dobson in the MCCU All-Stars and Dynamos cricket is supported by the England development squad at Leeds University, while Liverpool FC and and Wales Cricket Board and Tattenhall plans to launch the Wales striker Ben Woodburn has also played for us. series of weekly sessions on 17th May. Both age groups We want to build on this with the All-Stars for fi ve- will use light plastic bats to eight-year-olds and the Dynamos for eight to 11s. “We hope and soft balls, with each They can then graduate it will start young player receiving into our junior agegroup sides and start what we hope will be a lifelong involvement a personalised T-shirt. “It’s all branded in line with The Hundred, the new a lifelong involvement in cricket” national top-level tournament, with the game. and will run for eight weeks,” “We have great says Jon. “We’re hoping to facilities here and are very get between 40 and 60 local children grateful to Swayne Johnson involved. We have already run some for helping us to launch this sessions at the Park School, which exciting project to encourage went down really well, and we’ll be youngsters to start playing.” visiting other local schools too.”
HIKE INTO HISTORY
Our resident rambler Clive Williams takes us on a tour of Offa’s Dyke Path
and skirmishes took place throughout the Welsh Marches. There are still a number of defensive sections and ancient hill forts along the path, as well as a variety of amazing landscapes and uninterrupted views over both sides of the border.
The most dramatic part of the route is over the Clwydian Range, which in itself is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The high point of the northern end of the path is at the summit of the mighty Moel Famau, which gives walkers commanding views from its summit. O a’s Dyke is a spectacular earthwork, consisting of a displaced high soil bank on the English side and a ditch on the bank on the English side and a ditch on the Welsh side, which can be 20m wide at places. It was built on the orders of O a, an Anglo-Saxon king of Mercia in the eighth century, and starts at Sedbury near Chepstow before running along the Welsh Marches and into north Wales, fi nishing at Prestatyn on the Denbighshire coast.
When the structure was built, its sole purpose was as a border dividing the kingdom of Powys from the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Mercia. The border has changed over time as battles The achievement of a lifetime
O a’s Dyke Path, the long-distance path that follows the structure, is a National Trail and designated ancient monument. It was developed into a proper path in 1971, so this summer we are celebrating its
“The high o cial 50th birthday. At 177 miles, the path isn’t one that can be walked in a day, but point there are ways for everyone to tackle it. is Moel The National Trails website (www.
Famau” nationaltrail.co.uk) has some brilliant guidance, breaking the path down into sensible distances that can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. You can do these over two weeks, stopping at accommodation en route, or tackle them section by section over a number of months or years.
Another way to enjoy the path is with a circular route. There are a number of books covering these, or you can use Ordnance Survey maps to plan your own. The great thing is that any walk on O a’s Dyke Path can be varied to suit the individual. To complete the path is a lifetime achievement.
Arts&Crafts
NURSE FINDS NEW TALENT BIT BY BIT
To combat the stress of working as a nurse throughout the pandemic, one local woman found a creative outlet that is now a burgeoning new career
Skills and success
Debbie Evans with one of her creations cutting materials, ceramic tiles and various sizes of wood, so I could begin with some sketches and familiarising myself with the cutting of the tiles and so on.” Since that early research, Debbie hasn’t looked back and is now working on mosaics for other people while refining the process and perfecting her technique. “The first picture I constructed was of a single house with a gravel path, finished with grey grout. I then decided to construct a more abstract picture of Menai Bridge on Anglesey, adding in the well-known monument that stands on top of the hill at Church Island walks. Following on from those pieces, for my sister’s 60th birthday I decided to produce a picture representing the four houses she has lived in over the years, adding a personal touch. The
There is no doubt fun part was adding windows, chimneys and that the impact signs saying ‘The Wirral’ and ‘Llanarmon’.” of Covid has been felt “I can sit quietly The gift was so well received, it inspired by all of us, but for those on the frontline in medical roles it has been a particularly in my kitchen and regain my creative spark” Debbie to continue with her work and she is now working on a commissioned project for one of her colleagues. She credits her new artistic outlet with allowing her time and space to decompress tough time. Many after a difficult day. “Now I have opened my people have needed perspective to this form of art, I am better able to find new ways to relax and to work effectively within the current situation,” Debbie says. new outlets for their emotions. “I can sit quietly at the kitchen and regain my creative spark in
Debbie Evans decided that producing artwork that is fun, playful and a great talking point for being artistic was the answer to the patients and colleagues within my working environment.” her long, hard shifts as a nurse. She discovered a new talent for mosaic making, and is now enjoying not only the results but also the way in which the hobby has helped her stay connected and creative throughout lockdowns and restrictions.
“I work as a nurse within the clinical setting at Glan Clwyd Hospital [in Bodelwyddan] and have continued to work throughout the Covid situation,” says Debbie. “After spending sunny days in the garden at the beginning of the first lockdown last March, I decided I wanted to make a mosaic with a few stepping stones to bring some colour to my small garden. Mosaics were a new concept to me, so I researched techniques on YouTube and studied pictures on Pinterest to get some idea of what I’d be making. I decided to order
Artists mix methods to get great results
Students at one local university are using digital platforms alongside studio space to create a safe and balanced creative environment during the pandemic
to go outside and how teaching would work,” says Bethan. “However, the health and safety practices introduced in the university workshops were really reassuring, and I feel privileged to be on a course where we are able to have a whole workshop day once a week. I’ve also made a home
Artists at Wrexham workshop so I can do Glyndwr University smaller pieces at home.” are being taught through an active learning Perfecting framework (ALF) that techniques combines the best use Bethan’s latest work of on-campus spaces, has seen her devising such as Glyndwr’s art jewellery pieces, and she studios and workshops has surprised herself on its Regent Street by taking her work campus, with digitally in new directions. Natasha Hicks enhanced learning. Bethan Parry “I started the applied Among those arts course thinking I studying through the would work in ceramics, framework are applied art students Bethan Parry but then I fell in love with metal,” she says. from Acrefair, who is in the second year of her “Our first semester piece this year was to create BA, and first-year student Natasha Hicks, who a commission or gift for a historical visionary. is originally from Hong Kong but now lives in We had to research their lives and achievements, Oswestry. Both students say they’ve not only found and create an appropriate piece. I chose Virginia themselves reassured about the safety of their Hall, a spy from the Second World War, and workspaces, but also that they’ve discovered new created a snake armpiece after reading that she’d ways of learning – and the benefits of the ALF. once worn live snakes as bracelets to school.”
“The ALF has given me the confidence to take Natasha’s latest work, meanwhile, was inspired ownership of my studies, as I have by the natural world. “In the first been able to refer to the recorded semester we were introduced to videos my tutors have made as much as I like,” says Natasha. “I also feel fortunate to have a full “I feel privileged to be able to have metal and ceramics through the topic of taxonomy and we were required to select an example workshop day on campus, so I a whole workshop that sparked interest. I decided have a proper space where I can day once a week” on evolutionary taxonomy after develop my skills with in-person seeing a virtual exhibit on the support. First-years have been Natural History Museum website lucky that the university has about reindeer eyes, which change lent us basic toolboxes so we can bring essential colour depending on the season. I hadn’t worked tools home and continue our work from there.” with metal before, so I focused on lenses and
“As with everything else in our Covid world, apertures as well as the colour change, and made I think there was some trepidation about having a functioning aperture by hand using brass.”
Events taking place at Afonwen Craft & Antique Centre near Mold over the coming months
8th & 9th May, local artist Gill Benjamin
Gill is known for her acrylic and watercolour works, painting on slate, canvas and board.
13th & 14th May, Sandra
Roberts Watch Sandra as she makes her unique silver jewellery.
15th & 16th May, local artist Thelma
Evans Thelma’s delicate style is often refl ected in her paintings of fl owers, sea and landscapes. She has a great collection of prints and takes private commissions on request.
18th & 19th May, Jackie at Jewels Crafts
Jackie will be making jewellery both days. She has a beautiful collection with many styles and colour ranges to choose from, and can also do small repairs.
20th May, Crafty Sisters
Linda and Sue will bring their vast collection of crafts and jewellery with them, showcasing new pieces made for 2021.
17th & 18th June, Liz at Femme
Fatale See Liz’s summer collection of gorgeous day and evening bags.
23rd June, Stuart Davies
Local watercolour artist Stuart takes inspiration from his environment and places he has visited. He is equally as happy to take commission work.
24th & 25th June, Elaine from Cherry
Bea A fantastic collection of hand-knitted teddy bear clothes as well as jewellery. Elaine o ers a re-stringing service.
26th & 27th June, Marie at Earth
Deva Marie creates lino prints and has been working on many new designs this year taking inspiration from antique original prints. She has a fabulous collection of mystical and mythical statues that she has created and hand-painted.
This is just a taste of the events happening in May and June at Afonwen Craft & Antique Centre. To see a full list of events, visit www.afonwen.co.uk or call 01352 720965
Until 9th May, Richard Wathen: New Eyes Every Time, Mostyn,
Llandudno A solo exhibition from the winner of Open 21. Rooted in the historical canon of painting, Wathen’s work focuses largely on portraiture, depicting figures in states of hesitation and contemplation: listening at walls, pretending to sleep, moon bathing or engaging in other apparent states of uncertainty. Wathen’s works depict the tumultuous and complex array of human emotions, from anxiety and sorrow to despair, brought on by the socio-economic pressures of contemporary living. Restrictions allowing, you should be able to catch the show in person but it’s also available online. www.mostyn.org
Until 26th June: Ty Pawb Youth Advisory Board Takeover, Ty Pawb, Wrexham
The newly formed YAB has been working with artist Harold Offeh and creative producer Yasmin Begum to develop a manifesto. The results of this process, including artworks and performances, will occupy part of the main gallery as an exhibition focusing on themes of pleasure, play and Welsh futurism. Alongside this will be an exhibition of north Wales painters. www.typawb.wales
Until 26th June, When The Land Rested – Claire Scott Curates, Twenty Twenty Gallery,
Ludlow Gallery artist Claire Scott celebrates a significant half-century with a curated show of artists who have inspired her own development as a practising landscape painter. www.twenty-twenty.co.uk
Working Women In Cheshire, Chester Grosvenor Museum
This online exhibition explores how women’s work changed dramatically during the first half of the 20th century, and highlights the essential role women played in keeping the county (and country) going during the First and Second World Wars. At the start of the 29th century, women in Britain had little involvement in the industrial workplace. Where they did, it was usually in less physically demanding tasks, for instance stoking the fires at the Lion Salt Works in Marston. However, with a shortage of workers thanks to the huge numbers of men being sent off to fight, women quickly became vital figures in wartime industry. grosvenormuseum. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk
PHOTO COMPETITION
HEROES
Thank you so much to everyone who entered our last photography competition on the subject of Heroes – it’s heartwarming to see just how many of you were ready to share images with us. Those printed here captured those people who have made a difference to your lives, either historically or recently, when so many everyday heroes have shone out in the face of adversity.
We’re sure you’ll be just as imaginative with your interpretation of our next subject, Happy Days. So get out there and capture the moment, be quick with your finger, sharp on the shutter and snap fast to get the perfect shot! Email your photographs to us at editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk by 11th June and we’ll print our favourites here as always. Good luck!
by Kenneth Davies
by Kenneth Davies
Find a new look for summer
With lockdown easing, it’s time to swap loungewear for more on-trend outfi ts, such as breezy dresses, gelato-hued separates and earthy silhouettes.
The neutral tones of Aequamente’s summer collection embody this season’s casual look, with easy-to-wear silhouettes that can be worn as more formal pieces too. Rundholz Mainline’s tailored looks are a spring staple, expressing versatile styling in both casual and smart outfi ts, while Hannoh Wessel’s dresses have innovative details and adaptable styling to complement any go-to ensemble. Privatsachen also has an extensive range of pieces if you’re su ering from a wardrobe-block. And you can take your o -duty wardrobe to a whole new level with feminine and contemporary looks from Jayko’s SS21 collection that fuses urban style and delicate romance with a gothic twist.
The new mindset of fashion focuses on sustainability and ethical practices. Designers such as Elemente Clemente, Privatsachen, Mama B and many more have become more ecofriendly with their fabrics and practices. Whether you’re taking a big step or a small one to becoming more eco-friendly, every tiny change is a contribution towards making everything better for all.
You can shop for these spring/summer 2021 collections and more at Olivia May. You can order at www.oliviamay.org with free delivery, or visit the showroom at The Barns, Lane End Farm, Kelsall Road, Ashton Hayes, Cheshire CH3 8BH. The showroom is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. To book an appointment, call 01829 751600
Hannoh Wessel Rigoberthe dress in sand, £235
Rundholz Mainline Rundholz Mainline jacket jacket in black in black chalk faux, £435 chalk faux, £435
Shire readers can get an exclusive discount at Olivia May. Simply use the code “SHIRESONLINE” for 10 per cent o online sales or “SHIRESINSTORE” for 15 per cent o in our Oxford boutique. Discount ends 31st May 2021
Jayko Confi ante full maxi Jayko Confi ante full maxi skirt skirt in ardoise, £324 in ardoise, £324
Aequamente wide-leg trousers in juta, £194 Privatsachen Spurende top in myrrhe, £153 Opening Times Mon-Sat 9-5 Sunday 10:30-3:30
SHOP ONLINE at www.peppersfashion.co.uk
22 Sandford Avenue, Church Stretton SY6 6BW Call 01694 722724 or email info@peppersfashion.co.uk
We stock among others:
Life in black & whiteMake a statement while keeping it simple with powerful silhouettes in monochrome colours
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1. Selected Femme knitted vest, £35, The Stars & Grey; www.thestarsandgrey.co.uk 2. Owen Barry Pepsi bag, £192, View in Ludlow, Shropshire; www.viewboutique.com 3. Vero Moda Filli T-shirt, £18, View in Ludlow in Shropshire; www.viewboutique.com 4. Pomodoro contrast stripe dress, £85, Sleek Boutique in
Nantwich, Cheshire; www.sleeknantwich.com 5. Chalk Sally scarf, £35, The Stars & Grey; www.thestarsandgrey.co.uk 6. The Biker wetlook ribbed leggings, £21, Bella Boutique in Northwich,
Cheshire; www.bellabrand.co.uk 7. Masai NINI dress, £125, Bodenhams in Ludlow, Shropshire; www.bodenhams.co.uk 8. Olsen diamond knit, £89, Peppers Menswear & Ladieswear in Church Stretton, Shropshire; www.peppersfashion.co.uk 9. Vans Old Skool trainers, £60, Schuh; www.schuh.co.uk 10. Sofi yya shirt-style skater dress, £159, Ted Baker; www.tedbaker.com 11. Linen jumpsuit, £119, The White Company; www.thewhitecompany.com 12. Beatrice Markatos long necklace in lava and jasper, £118,
Olivia May in Cheshire www.oliviamay.org 13. Strappy maxi dress, £215, Abi Fisher in Willington, Cheshire; www.abifi sher.co.uk 14. 10 of Spades T-shirt, £30, Primrose Hill Boutique in Shifnal,
Shropshire; www.primrosehillboutique.com 15. Crofts mid block heel slingback pump, £90, Dune London; www.dunelondon.com 16. A Postcard from Brighton Chillings joggers, £40, Sleek Boutique in Nantwich, Cheshire; www.sleeknantwich.com
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Off to work Look sharp as you head back to the o ce with timeless pieces that are always in style
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1. Robert Charles belt, £74.95, Peppers Menswear & Ladieswear in Church
Stretton, Shropshire; www.peppersfashion.co.uk 2. Haincli e Tweed leather briefcase, £169, Halon Menswear in Shrewsbury,
Shropshire; www.halonmenswear.com 3. Cassino tailored fi t washable suit, £179, Halon Menswear in Shrewsbury,
Shropshire; www.halonmenswear.com 4. Silk tie, £29.50, Martin David in Shrewsbury, Shropshire; www.martin-david.co.uk 5. Barker Valiant hand-painted shoes, £260, Riva Menswear in Knutsford,
Cheshire; www.rivamenswear.com 6. Olymp cotton V-neck jumper, £55, Bodenhams in Ludlow, Shropshire; www.bodenhams.co.uk 7. Steel cu inks, £25, Martin David in Shrewsbury, Shropshire; www.martin-david.co.uk 8. Gran Sasso cashmere raglan crew-neck pullover, £192 (RRP £320), Stephen
Muldoon Bespoke in Prestbury, Cheshire; www.stephenmuldoon.com 9. Giordano Robert blazer, £199, Trefor Jones in Ruthin; www.treforjones.co.uk 10. Moss 1851 tailored fi t twill suit, £249, Moss Bros; www.moss.co.uk 11. Olymp button-down shirt with paisley trim, £59.95, Peppers Menswear &
Ladieswear in Church Stretton, Shropshire; www.peppersfashion.co.uk 12. Touri worn look genuine leather briefcase, £102, Wolf & Badger; www.wolfandbadger.com 13. Cli ord wool suit waistcoat, £80, Halon Menswear in Shrewsbury,
Shropshire; www.halonmenswear.com 14. Guide London jacket blazer, £95 (RRP £190), Smart Ass Menswear in Conwy; www.smartassmenswear.co.uk 15. Pal Zileri elastic waist trouser, £195 (RRP £325), Stephen Muldoon Bespoke in Prestbury, Cheshire; www.stephenmuldoon.com 16. Van Buck silk tie, £30, Wood’s of Shropshire; www.woodsofshropshire.co.uk 17. Double Two Paradigm striped cotton shirt, £34.50, Wood’s of Shropshire www.woodsofshropshire.co.uk 18. Straight fi t chino, £65, Crew Clothing Company; www.crewclothing.co.uk
