Shire Magazine Nov-Dec 2023 North Wales

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

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www.shiremagazine.co.uk

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40-PAGE GUIDE

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The Wrexham AFC fan hoping for big-screen success

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Fairytale of New Wrexham

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The best places to shop local for gifts, seasonal food & drink and Christmas decorations

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It’s Christmas!

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Top of the tree A chance to meet some of the best local bosses Roll on 2024…

Plan ahead for next year’s break with our holiday guide King of hearts TV Supervet Noel Fitzpatrick and what pets teach us about unconditional love

g in v i l e Lovlocal Shire visits Shrewsbury

HOMES & INTERIORS

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XMAS RECIPES

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G I F T S YO U ’ L L LOV E

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BOOKS

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WELCOME, DEAR READER…

Publisher Dan Bromage Editor Kate Speedie Chief Subeditor Wendy Reed Staff Writers Juliet Davies Lynda Kenny Alison Steele Designers Ella Knight Meryl McIntosh Advertising Design Andy Beavis Sales & Marketing Pauline Jones Jon Hunt Sophie Hunt Distribution Manager Paul Howard Finance & Accounts David Kynaston Nicky Kynaston Jane Osman Contributors Holly Johnson, John Hargreaves, P Parker, Helen Cooke, Bob Hickman, Lisa Whelan, Eryl Jones, Adele Barry, Catherine Buckley, Alice Leetham, Deborah Law, Lee Ruddin, J McKinney Credits Selected Images by pressfoto on Freepik

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e can’t believe it’s nearly Christmas! The year has flown by, but the season of cheer is practically upon us and we can’t wait to make the most of it – and help all our readers to do the same. Whether you’re hitting the town with friends, hosting the office Christmas party or simply gathering the family for a good old-fashioned knees-up, this special edition of Shire is packed with everything you need for an unforgettable festive season.

For starters, we’ve rounded up the very best local shops and businesses, who are ready to help you find the perfect gifts, tastiest ingredients and most Christmassy experiences! ‘Use it or lose it’ has never been more true in these tricky economic times.

Supporting local business is good for our communities, our planet and ultimately all of us – so let’s make it a caring, Shire-ing celebration this year.

For our festive food and drink section, we’ve spoken to so many fabulous producers, artisan bakers, brewers and butchers that your mouth will be watering before you turn the first page! There’s food news, our regular wine column and restaurant reviews too, plus two delectable recipes to try at home.

When we tackled the subject of good bosses in our last issue, we were amazed at the feedback. You loved our feature – so we hope you’ll enjoy meeting more inspirational individuals from across the patch. And all your favourite sections are here too: homes, arts, books, schools, fashion, health, holidays and so much more! Happy reading – and a very Happy Christmas from all of us at Shire!

IN THIS ISSUE FOLLOW THE LEADER The second part of our feature on local business heroes

Email Shire magazine editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk advertising@shiremagazine.co.uk

Shire Magazine PO Box 276 Oswestry Shropshire SY10 1FR Tel: 01691 661270

Festive markets, fresh trees, gifts, turkey – all you need for Christmas is right here!

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Print ISSN 2514-3913 Online ISSN 2514-3921 SHIRE MAGAZINE is 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, acting for Shire magazine.

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BRING IT ON! Our What’s On guide is crammed with inspiration for Bonfire Night, Christmas nights out, and New Year’s too!

GET IN TOUCH! We want to hear from you…

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

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Reader poems Do you like penning the odd line? So do we!

Send us your poems – we’d love to include them on our poetry page. See page 121 for more.

Share your reader stories.

Have you got an exciting or extraordinary story to tell?

We’d like to feature it in the next issue. Send us an email – and don’t forget to include a picture or two as well.

We have lots of regulars readers can contribute to:

Reader photos Taken a great shot recently? Email your best effort and it might get featured!

See page 105.

Your pets Is your pet the love of your life? Send a snap, along

A free copy of Shire delivered to your door!

If you’re having trouble getting to the supermarket and would prefer your copy delivered to you at home, just send us an A4 sae with £2 postage to Shire Magazine, PO Box 276, Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 1FR. We’ll send you the latest issue by return.

with their name and anything else you want to tell us. See page 107 for further details.

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

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

TURN TO PAGE 118 for our fantastic subscription offer

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Contents N OV E M B E R / DE C E MB E R 2 023 6 What’s On Our packed events listings cover everywhere from North and Mid Wales, across Cheshire and the whole of Shropshire – check out what’s happening where, including Bonfire Night celebrations and all the festive fun on your doorstep.

PAG E 4 8 Quirky gifts

41 Shrewsbury This issue we set out to explore to Shropshire’s county town, birthplace of Charles Darwin and home to one of the country’s biggest flower shows

PAG E 4 4 Keeping Christmas local PAG E 1 0 1

42 Reviews The Shire team reports back from local shows and events.

Gifts for her

PAG E 1 0 9 Celebrity interview

44 Keeping Christmas local It’s definitely beginning to look at lot like Christmas around the Shire patch! Check out our guide to all the wonderful shops, businesses and local producers waiting to make your festive season merry and bright.

53 Food & Drink Seeing as it is officially feasting season, we know you’ll want to hear from the region’s top chefs, eateries and producers with their recipes, tips and news. Our food section is packed as always.

PAG E 7 0

PAG E 1 0 0

20 Questions PAG E 7 7 Homes & Interiors

Gifts for him

63 Holidays It’s never too soon to think about booking a break for next year – we’ve a round-up of waterways, cottage stays, parks and property companies to give you lots of inspiration.

68 Active Getting out and keeping active can be harder in the winter – but it’s always worth the effort.

We’ve got a great town walk for you this time as well as some mountain climbing for the more intrepid among you!

PAG E 6 What’s On

PAG E 9 2 Garden Shopping

70 20 Questions We turn the spotlight on another TV favourite – a familiar face from hit show Below Deck who’s happiest at home on the North Wales coast in Conwy.

72 Meet the boss Our feature on the region’s top bosses in the last issue was so popular, we’ve had to bring you a follow-up… Prepare to be inspired by more of the area’s awesome business leaders.

77 Homes & Interiors Family and friends flocking to your place for the holiday? Make sure it’s ready for guests with our homes and interiors guide, and check out some amazing renovation projects too!

89 Charity Shire meets some of the extraordinary folk going the extra mile – or 360 miles! – to support the organisations that do so much good work across the area.

97 Gardens Just because the weather has turned doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do outside! And our friends at Reaseheath College have some great ideas for festive decorations too, using natural materials from your plot.

102 Arts & Crafts A North Wales conservationist shares her new photographic collection, and we visit the 1950s Museum in Denbigh. Plus craft news, exhibitions near you and of course your fabulous photos.

106 Pets & Wildlife Some heartening news on the Wildlife Trusts’ new recovery programme, a plan for the struggling habitats of the Marches, and some more of your adorable pet pictures.

109 Celebrity Our celebrity interviewee this issue is everyone’s favourite animal hero – TV Supervet Noel Fitzpatrick, who’s on tour this month with his new stage show.

Some of you may even have tickets!

110 Health & Beauty Advice from the experts in health and wellbeing – this section will keep you looking and feeling your best through the party season.

113 Schools Our education pages round up the latest news from schools and colleges across the area, keeping you up to date with developments across the sector.

120 Books & Poetry Our books section includes a piece on the local author and Wrexham fan whose fantasy football novel is going global – as well as book reviews, festival news and some of your best poetry too.

124 Retirement Top tips on how to get the most of your later years in our retirement section.

130 Letters to the editor It’s over to you! We share some of the lovely post we’ve received from our amazing readers over the past two months.

NORTH WALES WHAT’S ON

Venue Cymru’s got variety

DID YOU KNOW? Peter Pan was named after Pan, the pipe-playing Greek god of nature

Britain’s Got Comedy, 18th November Join comedians from Britain’s Got Talent for the ultimate night of stand-up, including impressionist Danny Posthill, musical mastermind Siobhan Phillips and Golden Buzzer recipient Daliso Chaponda. 7.30pm. Tickets £21.

The Nutcracker, 22nd November Experience this most festive of ballets, with snow flurries, sweets, princes, magic and a live orchestra. 7.30pm. Tickets from £35.

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, 28th November–2nd December Winner of What’s On Stage Best New Musical Award, enjoy this

life-affirming story of a Sheffield schoolboy who makes it to the big time. 7.30pm. Tickets from £32.

Peter Pan, 9th-31st December John Evans returns to Venue Cymru with Hollyoaks’ Carley Stenson in a fun-filled fiesta of slapstick, audience interaction and marvellous musical numbers. Various times.

Tickets from £22. www.venuecymru.co.uk

In the picture Heavenly thoughts Literature lovers will enjoy November events at Gladstone’s Library, Hawarden. From 24th-26th November ‘Imagining Heaven – with the help of the Victorians’ explores the views of poets including Tennyson, Christina Rossetti and Adelaide Procter; churchmen John Ellerton,

The Royal Cambrian Academy in Conwy presents three new exhibitions, running until 18th November: Noelle Griffiths’ ‘Long Rivers of Dream’, Flora McLachlan’s ‘The Cauldron’ and works by Academy Members on the theme of ‘Self Portrait’.

An adventure in the snow

From 25th November– 30th December the Academy’s Winter Show offers an exciting range of Members’ painting, printmaking, photography, sculpture and textiles. Open Tuesday-Saturday 11am-5pm.

Free entry. www.rcaconwy.org Set out on a Christmas Adventure at Manorafon Farm Park, Abergele on 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th & 23rd December. Join Santa for storytime before a festive journey around the village, with a golden coin to spend.

Visit the Elf Flying School, stroll the illuminated forest, make a decoration, see Mrs Claus in her kitchen, visit the reindeer and see real snow! Under-14s £39.90, adults £15. And look out for Christmas Nights at Santa’s Village, with food, drink, fun and a Magical Light Trail. www. manorafon-farm-park.co.uk

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FD Maurice, George Matheson and John Henry Newman, scientists, philosophers and freethinkers. On 25th November Jane Yeh presents a poetry masterclass ‘Shaking Things Up: Looking Outside of Yourself for Poetic Inspiration’. Full details at www.gladstoneslibrary.org

BBC NOW on the road

The BBC National Orchestra of Wales performs Hannah Kendall’s The Spark Catchers and Dvořák on 1st December at Prichard-Jones Hall, Bangor, while Bangor’s Pontio hosts A Night with Elin Fflur on 2nd December. Love Christmas carols in cosy jumpers, children joyfully singing and the chance to sing along to your festive favourites?

There’s the perfect Sunday afternoon treat on 17th December as Adrian Partington leads the orchestra alongside a massed choir from across North Wales, with readings by your favourite BBC Wales presenters. www. bbc.co.uk/bbcnow

WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 4TH-11TH NOVEMBER

Something for everyone at Pontio TIR: Stream of Consciousness, 30th November Ballet Cymru presents a sparkling evening of dance inspired by Cerys Matthews’ Welsh folk album.

7.30pm. Tickets £13 (child £11).

A Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play, 1st December.

An inventive adaptation of Dickens’ classic tale that will

delight young and old alike, full of festive feeling, ghostly encounters and redemption.

7pm. Tickets £15 (child £13).

Ed Byrne – Tragedy Plus Time, 6th December Join Ed as he tests Mark Twain’s famous formula by mining the most tragic event in his life for laughs.

7.30pm. Tickets £27.50.

DID YOU KNOW? A Christmas Carol was published on 19th December 1843 and sold out by 24th

ROH Live: The Nutcracker, 12th December A film screening of the Royal Ballet’s magical Christmas adventure, combining the thrill of the fairytale with spectacular dance. 7.15pm. Tickets £15 (concessions £12.50, child £10). www.pontio.co.uk

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Weekends from 4th November, Guided I’m A Celebrity Tours, Gwrych Castle Fans of the show can tour the castle, including set locations used on the show, with behindthe-scenes access. 1-2.30pm.

Tickets £20 (child £10).

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5th November, Wrexham City Bonfire, Marchwiel Enjoy an amazing bonfire with fireworks, funfair and hot food. Gates open 4pm, bonfire lit 6pm, fireworks follow. Entry £5 (under-5s free).

SANTA EATS CHRISTMAS!

Have breakfast with the Big Man at Erddig, near Wrexham this December. On weekends from 9-10.30am, tuck into a delicious Welsh breakfast and enjoy songs, a special story and a small gift for children – guaranteed to fill everyone with festive cheer.

Afterwards work it off by visiting the house and gardens, specially decorated for Christmas. On 16th, 17th, 22nd & 23rd December, you can have Christmas dinner with Santa (5-6.30pm). Tickets for both events are £17.95 (child £18.95). www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Twinkle twinkle

Experience Italianate Portmeirion at its sparkling best this Christmas as the Food & Craft Festival returns from 1st-3rd December.

There’ll be artisan stalls selling the finest Welsh produce and crafts, together with festive entertainment to get you in the mood. Come to enjoy the atmosphere and find the perfect present while you’re at it! 9.30am-5pm, standard admission applies. www.portmeirion.wales

Have yourself a tropical little Christmas Step into the steamy world of Pili Palas at Menai Bridge and find… Santa! From 26th November you can enjoy a festive breakfast, lunch or tea, then enter Santa’s grotto and receive a gift. Meet all manner of animals, including meerkats, donkeys and a 16ft Burmese python, then let off steam in the soft play. £11.95 (child £14.95). www.pilipalas.co.uk

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8th November, Beatrice and Benedict, Ucheldre Centre, Holyhead Mid Wales Opera performs this hilarious piece based on Shakespeare’s tale of misunderstood singletons.

7.30pm. Tickets £15 (child £5).

Magic of Mostyn

Get festive at Abakhan Mostyn: learn to crochet your own Christmas decorations on 10th or 19th November (11am-3pm, tickets £35).

Treat the family to Breakfast or Afternoon Tea with Santa on 16th, 17th & 23rd December and watch the children’s faces light up as the big man arrives from the North Pole. Every child will receive a special gift to take home, and there’ll be crafts and a photo op too. Book for 9-10.30am or 2.30-4pm sessions for £13.95 (child £14.95). www.abakhan.co.uk

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10th November, The Unknown Soldier, Criccieth Memorial Hall Night Out Wales Rural Touring Theatre performs the Edinburgh Fringe show, written in tribute to the centenary of the return of the Unknown Warrior to Westminster Abbey. 7.30pm. Tickets £15.

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11th November, Cara Hammond, Tŷ Pawb, Wrexham Up-and-coming indie singersongwriter Cara hails from Wrexham – catch her debut tour, with support from Rebecca Hurn.

7.30pm. Tickets £8.

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11th November & 10th December, Glass Fused Lanterns Workshop, Wernog Wood, near Ruthin

Enjoy a beginners’ course tutored by practising artists and craftspeople in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

9am-12.30pm. Tickets £61.50.

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 7

NORTH WALES WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 14TH-25TH NOVEMBER November, This Is •14th The Kit, Neuadd Ogwen,

Bethesda Kate Stables has a voice of rare, unaffected beauty, which she accompanies with her banjo. Currently touring internationally.

7.30pm. Tickets £20.

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15th November - 17th December, Oriel Glasfryn Gallery Winter Exhibition New paintings, ceramics and furniture, featuring Clare Shaughnessy, David Evans, Eric Peake MBE and others.

Work will be displayed across the main gallery and Glasfryn Hall, which will be decorated for Christmas and the fires will be lit! Refreshments will be available on weekends.

Merry Zipmas!

North Wales’ magical grotto experience is back at Zip World Llechwedd from 24th November-24th December.

Venture deep underground aboard the cable railway and explore three enchanting chambers. First up is the Light Maze, where you’ll weave your way to Santa’s Workshop. After peeking behind the scenes, head through the twinkling tunnels to meet him in his cosy Grotto. After receiving your gift and Welsh Slate bauble, journey back above ground and get creative at the Bauble Decorating Station, and

Big performances at Rhyl’s Little Theatre

Sister Act the Musical, 10th-11th November With powerful gospel music, outrageous dancing and a truly moving story, Phoenix Performers’ Sister Act is a tribute to the universal power of friendship. 3pm & 7pm. Tickets £12 (child £10).

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18th November, Bangor University Symphony Orchestra, Prichard-Jones Hall, Bangor Brahms Symphony No.2, Clara Schumann’s Piano Concerto and Robert Schumann’s Genoveve Overture. 7pm. Tickets £12 (over60s £10, students and children £5) via www.pontio.co.uk November & 9th •18th December Colwyn Bay

Artisan Market Discover unique arts and crafts by local makers: there’ll be artisan gifts and goodies and food trucks serving cuisine from around the world.

10am-4pm. Free entry.

Race into winter

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20th November, Simon Reeve – To the Ends of the Earth, Venue Cymru, Llandudno The author and TV presenter will offer stories, surprises, thrills, deeper thoughts and hearty laughs. 7.30pm. Tickets £31.50.

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21st November, Evergreen Plants for Small Gardens, Halkyn Cricket Club, Holywell Clwyd Hardy Plant Society hosts Anthony Norman, a specialist grower of variegated and coloured foliage hardy nursery stock. 7.30pm. For details call 01352 781 458.

DID YOU KNOW? The deepest cave in Wales and the UK write a letter to Santa whilst is Ogof Ffynnon enjoying a complimentary Ddu at 274.5m hot chocolate and mince pie.

(901 ft) (Grown-ups can have a mulled wine!) Enhance your visit with a round of Grotto Golf on the UK’s only adventure golf in a cave. www.zipworld.co.uk/zipmas

Celebrate the arrival of winter, the coming holidays and reflect on another year of British horse racing at Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse.

Enjoy spectating in the fresh air at the 15th November and 2nd December fixtures.

The Christmas Special on 15th December is a spectacle you won’t want to miss. Wear your Christmas jumper for a chance to win a present!

Gates 10.30am. www. bangorondeeraces.co.uk

8 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

Shoulder To Shoulder, 17th November. How do you beat loneliness? How do you learn to laugh again?

This original chamber opera by Swansea City Opera was inspired by the moving, often laugh-out-loud stories by members of charity Men’s Sheds Cymru.

7pm. Tickets £10. www.rhyllittletheatre.co.uk

Fun afloat Enjoy a luxury festive afternoon tea with mulled wine and Christmas songs as you sail along the Llangollen Canal. Boats run on 3rd, 10th & 17th December – board at Llangollen Wharf at noon, returning 4pm. On 25th November & Saturdays in December come aboard a Christmas party boat to enjoy a retro buffet and Christmas tunes. All tickets £32.95, call 01978 860 702 to book or visit www.horsedrawnboats.co.uk

Santa steams into Bala

Santa will be arriving on Platform 1 at Bala Lake Railway, home of Alice the Little Welsh Engine. On 9th & 10th December decorated trains hauled by steam locos will travel down the line to the Grotto, where children can meet Santa and receive a gift. Grown-ups can get festive with a mince pie and glass of sherry or hot drink.

Tickets £12 (child £14). www.bala-lake-railway.co.uk

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26/10/2023 17:52

Bringing science to life for all this Christmas, where every visit is full of exploration, fun and play!

Book your tickets online today!

www.xplorescience.co.uk Wrecsam, LL13 8AE 01978 293400

20% off your tickets using code ShireXP23

Christmas at Siop Mostyn Art, crafts and creativity.

Made with love in Wales and beyond.

Tuesday–Saturday 10.30–4.30 mostyn 12 Vaughan St Llandudno Cymru/Wales LL30 1AB mostyn.org 01492 879 201

Available to browse and buy at Siop Mostyn and online

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post@mostyn.org b@siopmostyn x@siopmostyn x @mostyngallery

27/10/2023 12:06

DID YOU KNOW? Oystercatchers use their long orange beak to prise open shellfish

WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 26TH NOVEMBER – 2ND DECEMBER

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Welcome winter with NWWT Two Waterfalls Winter Walk, 10th November Enjoy a guided walk to Abergwyngregy’s falls and spot some wonderful winter wildlife, birds, berries, local history and amazing views. 10am-2pm. £2.

Birdwatching on Penrhos Coastal Park, 24th November Walk the beaches and headlands, admire bare trees and discover over-wintering birds. 11am-2pm. £2.

SIARC! ... A Journey Into Underwater Wales, 11th November Bangor University hosts a talk by Jake Davies, Welsh marine biologist, videographer and professional scuba diver. 6.30-9pm. Tickets £8 (students £5, refreshments £7).

Wales Coast Path, Bangor to the Spinnies, 8th December A walk along the newest section of the Coast Path, returning by minibus.

10.30am-2pm. £4 including a hot drink. www.northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk

Showing at Theatr Colwyn

Look who’s at Greenacres

In December Santa and his elves will be at home at Greenacres Animal Park in Deeside. The hardworking elves will be in their craft workshop – join them making reindeer food! Enjoy unlimited rides on the festive fairground, whizz around the soft play centre, then chill with Mrs Claus in her movie room.

Have a magical time meeting festive characters and furry friends, with guaranteed snow for those wonderful family photos. Tickets £12.99 (ages 2-16 £22.99, under-2s £8). www. greenacresanimalpark.co.uk

Time to reflect

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28th November Christmas Lights Switch-on, Mold Head to the town centre for festive choirs and the big switch-on by Father Christmas. 3.30-6.45pm. Free.

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28th November, Christmas Bazaar, Alyn Waters Country Park, Wrexham Raising funds for Pedal Power, an all-ability cycling service, entry includes grazing table and a glass of fizz. 6.30-9.30pm. Tickets £18 via 01978 757 524, ext 204.

Little Shop of Horrors, 29th & 30th November Join the talented students of Ysgol Aberconwy for their latest production. 7pm.

Tickets £14 (child £10).

Arrival – The Hits of Abba, 7th December Voted ‘Most Authentic ABBA Show’ for the past 10 years, catch this highenergy production featuring the mega-group’s best loved hits.

7.30pm. Tickets from £21.

26th November, Bodnant Welsh Food Artisan Market, Tal-y-Cafn Enjoy stunning views across the Conwy Valley and browse artisan stalls for unique and authentic gifts, treats and local produce.

10am-4pm. Free entry.

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Mother Goose, 23rd December– 6th January A magical goose who lays golden eggs… The rags-to-riches story makes a perfect festive family treat. Various times. £17 (child £12). www.theatrcolwyn.co.uk

Join Wrexham Symphony Orchestra on 12th November for ‘Beyond Borders’, a special programme remembering victims of war and oppression.

On 10th December, bring the family together for readings, carols and the best seasonal music. Performances at 3pm in William Aston Hall, Wrexham. Tickets from £10 (students £2). www.wrexhamorch.co.uk

He’s making tracks

1st-3rd December, Victorian Christmas Grotto, Greenfield Valley Heritage Park, Holywell There’ll be an artisan market with live festive music and a self-led Christmas trail.

Tickets £10 per child (including a gift from Santa), £3 per adult.

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2nd December, Mold & District Choral Society, Capel Bethesda, Mold Get ready for Christmas with a festive programme of Vivaldi’s Gloria and JS Bach’s Magnificat. 6pm.

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Catch Santa as he pays a special visit to Llangollen Railway, weekends in December & 20th-24th! A decorated steam train will transport you in style to ‘Lapland’ (Carrog). Each child will receive a gift on the journey, and adults can enjoy a pre-trip mince pie and tipple.

Tickets are £28 each.

Post-Christmas, relax and enjoy a mince pie and views of the Dee Valley as you travel on a specially decorated service. www. llangollen-railway.co.uk

2nd & 9th December, Festive Wreath Workshop & Afternoon Tea, RSPB South Stack, Anglesey Learn how to make a seasonal wreath under the expert guidance of the RSPB team, try Eluned’s signature bara brith and more! 2-4pm. £50.75.

2nd December, •Llandudno 5k Santa Dash The route takes you along the beautiful North Shore and you can walk, jog or run. Register at the pier from 9am, race starts 10am. Entry £17 (child £11.50).

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 11

NORTH WALES WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 2ND-7TH DECEMBER

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2nd & 3rd December, Snowdonia & Local Makers Christmas Market, Royal Oak Hotel, Betws-y-Coed Meet the picklers, brewers, bakers, potters, jewellers, distillers, knitters, sewers, gem-setters, woodworkers, painters and more! 10am-4pm. Free entry.

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2nd & 6th December, André Rieu’s White Christmas, Galeri Caernarfon Sing and dance in the aisles to timeless carols, romantic waltzes and beautiful songs from all over the world – all from your cinema seat!

Various times. Tickets from £10.

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2nd, 3rd, 9th 10th, 16th, 17th & 23rd December, Woodworks Garden Centre, Mold Meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto. He’ll be checking his naughty and nice lists and meeting children ahead of Christmas Day! Tickets £5 per child, including a small gift, biscuits and a drink. Booking essential, call 01352 752 555, option 3.

Music and merriment at William Aston The Fron Male Voice Choir – Voices of the Valley, 11th November Now in its 76th year, this well-loved choir returns for a Remembrance Day performance. 7.30pm. Tickets £16 (child £14).

Gary in Punderland, 14th November Mock the Week favourite Gary Delaney has been through the laughing glass and brings a brand-new show of razor-sharp one-liners. 7.30pm. Tickets £21.

Pinocchio, 13th-17th December Join in with Delta Academy’s fast-moving family panto, an interactive extravaganza. Various times. Tickets £14 (child £12).

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7th December6th January, Jack and the Beanstalk, Grove Park Theatre, Wrexham The battle to save Jack’s home will involve a dancing cow, ravenous rabbits and a handful of magic beans. Come and join in the fee-fi-fo-fun!

Various times. Tickets from £11.

Welsh of the West End, 21st December Experience an intimate night of festive song, featuring favourites from shows including Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera and Wicked, along with Christmas classics.

7.30pm. Tickets £25. www.williamastonwrexham.com

A magical reindeer safari

Father Christmas with a gift for every child – all from the warmth of your car. New for 2023 is a walk-in Christmas Village to explore after your trail! Open 24th November-24th December.

Prices start from £ 38.50 per vehicle depending on date and passengers. www.reindeerlodge.co.uk

Enjoy an immersive drive-through experience at the Reindeer Lodge, Mold. A magical tale will unfold as you journey through a 1.3km Christmas lighting trail surrounded by paddocks of reindeer, stunning countryside views, an Elf village and drive-through toy workshop, where you will meet

Opportunity knocks

•

3rd & 9th December, Clwydian Crafters Christmas Fair, Bryn Cadno Community Centre, Colwyn Bay Browse 22 stalls of beautifully handcrafted goods from talented local artists and enjoy a hot sandwich.

10am-3.30pm.

Free entry.

DID YOU KNOW? Of the 2 million drawings created for Disney’s Pinocchio, 300,000 made the cut

Retail therapy in Wrexham

Set in the bustling market space of Ty Pawb, Wrexham Christmas Makers Market returns on 2nd December.

It’s the perfect place to buy bespoke and unique Christmas gifts, from ceramics and textiles to woodwork, homewares, jewellery, glass, printmaking and affordable art. The food court will be open throughout the day for refreshments, with live music adding that extra-special atmosphere. 10am-4pm. Free entry. www.typawb.wales

12 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

No experience is necessary for wreath-decorating workshops at The Woodworks Garden Centre, Mold. The two-hour sessions are aimed at beginners, and include a demonstration by an experienced florist, all the materials to decorate your own large, fresh foliage wreath, as well as tea or coffee and a mince pie! Various dates throughout December, £45 (or £80 for two). www.woodworksgc.com/ christmas-wreath-workshops

Club classics

Based in Rhyl town hall, Rhyl Music Club presents Classico Latino on 8th November, a trio exuding Cuban style. On 22nd November the Welsh Chamber Orchestra led by Anthony Hose performs with baritone Jeremy Huw Williams, sponsored by the Gaynor Cemlyn Jones Trust. And on 6th December pianist Richard Ormrod will play pieces by Rameau, Janáček and Schubert. Concerts run from 7.30–9.15pm, tickets £15. www.rhylmusic.com

1000’s

OF READYMADE CURTAINS

AT ONLINE PRICES

STARTING FROM £19.99

NO SA W LE ON

Christmas events at Mary Jones World Christmas Tree Festival Saturday 2nd December and Sunday 3 December 10am-4pm Visit our award-winning visitor centre and Join us to enjoy a selection of trees decorated by discover how local thechurches, storyorganisations of a young Welsh girl and groups with the opportunity to vote for your favourite, browse stalls changed the lives of millions. from local suppliers and enjoy festive treats in the café.

Noson Set on the edge of Llyn Tegid,Nadolig the centre tells Tuesday 5th December Mary Jones’s story through multimedia and Light refreshments from 6.30pm, evening to begin interactive displays in at a Grade 2-listed 7pm. Join us tobuilding. celebrate the Christmas season at Complete with a picnic area, caféWorld. and children’s Mary Jones ‘Set on theforedge of Llyn Tegid, thealike. centre tells Mary Jones’s story through time out children and adults multimedia and interactive displays in a Grade 2-listed building, complete with a picnic area, café and children’s playground.’

Byd Mary Jones, Llanycil, Y Bala, Gwynedd, LL23 7YF | bydmaryjonesworld.org.uk

@bydmary

013_SHIRE_ND2023.indd 1

Byd Mary Jones World

Metal poles from £17.99 Venetian, Vertical and roller blinds We stock the largest selection of readymade curtains in the area.

SIMON BOYD www.simonboyd.com

KNUTSFORD WA16 6DD 01565 633855

SHREWSBURY SY1 1PB 01743 363006

CHESTER CH3 5UG 01244 311160

FACTORY OUTLET LL12 8LX 01978 854941

27/10/2023 12:07

LLANDUDNO Gift Fair 14th - 16th January 2024 St. George’s Hotel, The Promenade, Llandudno LL30 2LG

AUCTIONEERS AND VALUERS Join us for our Antiques, Interiors and Collectables Auction every second Tuesday commencing at 10.30 a.m.

The Premier Gift

& Homeware Trad

Our forthcoming auctions will be held on

The Llandudno Gift Fair is an annual trade-only gift fair which brings together buyers, exhibitors, designers and producers.

e Show for North

Wales

The show comprises over 35 established exhibitors that have supplied the homeware and gift industries for many years.

All buyers will receive a warm welcome where you will have access to experience and support should you need it. The show aims to create an informal and relaxed environment all set within the elegant surroundings of the famous St George’s Hotel.

It is the premier destination in North Wales if you buy for: - - - - GARDEN CENTRES - - - - ZOOS - - - - VISITOR CENTRES - - - - TOURIST ATTRACTIONS - - - - FARM SHOPS - - - - GIFT SHOPS - - - - ONLINE RETAIL - - - - NEWSAGENTS - - - - CONVENIENCE STORES

Make Llandudno Gift Fair your rst choice for all your purchasing needs in 2024.

Visit the show’s website for the full exhibitor list and to register to attend the show.

www.llandudnogiftfair.co.uk

Tuesday 14th November Saturday 18th November

info@llandudnogiftfair.co.uk

Tuesday 28th November Tuesday 12th December

VIEWING TIMES Friday 9.00am – 4.00pm | Monday 9.00am – 4.30pm and the morning of the sale from 9am.

All our auctions have live on-line bidding with www.easyliveauction.com

If you require any advice or further information, please contact us on

01978 353553

29 Holt Street, Wrexham LL13 8DH • Tel: 01978 353553

auctions@wingetts.co.uk • www.wingetts.co.uk

Memories in the making … handmade by you in Wernog Wood …

The best gift is one that reminds you of the person who gave it to you every time you use it. It may seem unusual to give a gift that the recipient must make themselves, but it will surely create a lasting memory and perhaps inspire a new passion.

With over thirty different traditional and contemporary craft courses to choose from, why not treat family and friends to an unforgettable experience and an adventure in craftsmanship within Wernog Wood, northeast Wales. Taught by tutors who are masters of their craft, these course vouchers make the perfect gift for adults who find pleasure in handmade things, beautiful Welsh countryside and meeting new people.

What better gift can you give?

Sharpen the prowess of a chef with a hand forged kitchen knife Stir the creativity of a spoon carver Bless a newly wed with a greenwood bed Ignite a welder’s spark or stoke a blacksmith’s fire

Handmade by you

wernog wood

Top off an occasion for your mad hatter friend Nurture a gardener’s pride with a cleft oak gate or help a budding florist bloom Whether experienced or a complete beginner, they could work in wood, metal, glass, ceramic, stone, drawing, painting, printing, mixed media, photography, floristry, botanical skincare, leather, textiles and more.

Select a specific course or let the recipient choose their own.

Whatever you decide, be proud that your family or friend will be well looked after, learn a new skill, bring home something to be truly proud of … and think of you!

Wernog Wood, Llanbedr DC, Ruthin, Denbighshire LL15 1YE 0776 5251531 | courses@wernogwood.co.uk | www.wernogwood.co.uk

014_SHIRE_ND2023.indd 1

27/10/2023 12:07

WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 8TH-14TH DECEMBER

•

The true spirit of Christmas St David’s Hospice is running several enticing fundraisers this year – do support them where you can. Venue Cymru hosts Llandudno Christmas Fair on 25th November, offering over 75 stalls and a visit from Santa (11am-4pm, entry £1, under-16s 50p). Beautiful Bangor Cathedral is the setting for a Christmas Concert on 1st December, with Dilwyn Morgan, Rhys Meirion and Cor y Penrhyn (7pm, tickets £15, child £10).

Two locations are holding Christmas tree

Raise a glass to Novemberfest

Forget Oktoberfest – November’s the month to celebrate in Mold. A festival of real ale and real food, Novemberfest at St Mary’s Church Hall on 10th-12th November features over 30 beers, ciders and perries as well as craft ales, real lager and great wines, all accompanied by delicious food and live music. www.moldnovemberfest.org.uk

Browse, shop, eat… repeat Head to the heart of Llandudno and switch on that festive feeling at the Christmas Extravaganza from 16th-19th November. At this free family fun event you’ll find food, drink, gifts, a funfair, live entertainment and the chance to say hello to Mr and Mrs Claus.

Open 10am-9pm (Sunday till 5pm). Free entry. www.victorian-extravaganza.com

DID YOU KNOW? It takes 10 to 12 years for a Christmas tree to reach 2 metres

festivals: St Mary’s Church, Conwy from 4th-9th December and St John’s Church, Llandudno from 11th-16th December.

Local businesses, schools and organisations decorate the trees for you to admire, and the church choirs will be performing carols.

For laugh-out-loud fun, don’t miss the Christmas Cracker comedy night on 9th December at Eirias Park, Colwyn Bay (6.30pm, tickets £20). www.stdavidshospice.org.uk

Three Welsh women

Ruthin Craft Centre has three new exhibitions, running until 7th January. In ‘Woven / Unwoven’ Laura Thomas uses thread to evoke the Welsh landscape. Ellen Bell’s ‘Gallery Watching’ captures visitors’ reactions when engaging with art, and ‘Land’ is a series of charcoal and ink drawings and prints by Susan Milne. Tuesday-Sunday 10am5.30pm. Free. www.ruthincraftcentre.org.uk

Hop on board…

Get festive with Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways! On 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 22nd & 23rd December the popular Grotto and Footplate Rides run from Harbour Station, or you can see Santa on a special service from Caernarfon. Details at www.festrail.co.uk And if you’re heading to Gweithdy Craft Fair on 25th-26th November why not take the shuttle service from Porthmadog, just £2.

8th-31st December, Snow White, Stiwt, Wrexham Heigh ho and away you go to this family classic, with fabulous songs and choreography, magic mirrors, poisoned apples and panto magic. Various times. Tickets £10.

•

9th December, Bangor University Symphony Orchestra, Prichard-Jones Hall, Bangor Kick-start your Christmas with a concert featuring the The Snowman, the Nutcracker Suite, Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia and William Mathias’ Ave Rex. 7pm. Tickets £12 (over60s £10, students and children £5) via www.pontio.co.uk

•

9th December, Jack and the Beanstalk, Ysceifiog Village Hall A touring panto company production, with an appeal for gifts for local charity, North Wales’ Superkids Toy Box Appeal.

3pm. Tickets £8 (child £7, family £28).

•

12th & 17th December, ROH Ballet Live & Encore: The Nutcracker, Ucheldre Centre, Holyhead Screenings of the festive ballet: Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker fight the Mouse King and visit the Sugar Plum Fairy in the glittering Kingdom of Sweets. 7.15pm. Tickets £13.

•

14th December, Carols Through Time, St Mary’s Church, Conwy A candlelit concert of traditional favourites and unknown medieval gems from around Europe, with an optional singing workshop at 5.45-6.30pm, concert 7.30pm. Tickets by donation, email clare@thetelling.co.uk

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 15

NORTH WALES WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 19TH-31ST DECEMBER

•19th December, La Bohème, Llangollen Town Hall North Wales Opera Studio brings you an original interpretation of the fabulous Puccini opera, in its traditional Italian format.

7pm. Tickets from £15.

•Until 24th December, Plas

Glyn-y-Weddw, Pwllheli The gallery has three exciting exhibitions: Gareth Hugh Davies’ ‘The Land Remembered’ features local paintings and drawings; Lisa Carter Grist’s ‘Wayfinding’ is a series of abstract landscapes, and Ronnie Drillsma’s ‘Patterns in the Landscape’ comprises collaged and acrylic scenes. Open daily 10am-5pm. Free entry.

•Until 25th December, Dragons Warriors, Wrexham Museum An exhibition of photographs, taken by South Wales-based photographer, Nigel Whitbread, during the 2019 Homeless World Cup, which took place in Bute Park, Cardiff. Mon-Fri 10am5pm, Sat 11am-4pm. Free entry.

Song and laughter at Rhyl Pavilion Sister Sledge Live, 12th November Sister Sledge are back, featuring Kathy Sledge’s unique soulful vocals and infectious energy, making for an electrifying performance.

7.30pm. Tickets from £31.50.

Fascinating Aïda, 23rd November Celebrating 40 years on the road, Britain’s sassiest musical cabaret trio – Dillie, Liza and Adèle – bring their brand-new show to Rhyl. 7.30pm. Tickets £28.50.

Richard and Adam – This is Christmas, 24th November The Britain’s Got Talent duo perform a show packed full of holiday cheer, with festive

classics, musical hits and operatic showstoppers.

7.30pm. Tickets from £20.

Jack and the Beanstalk, 9th-31st December A traditional ride through Panto Land, packed with mischief and mayhem and full of fee-fi-fo-fun! The X Factor’s Chico heads the line-up, with Graham Cole from The Bill. Various times. Tickets from £24. www.rhylpavilion.co.uk

Santa Claus is coming to… the Tivoli

Glory Days, 18th November The UK’s No.1 Springsteen tribute goes for a blast down Thunder Road, with classics all the way. 7pm. Tickets £15.

Limehouse Lizzy, 1st December Keeping the spirit of Celtic rock icon Phil Lynott alive, Limehouse has added a tribute to bandmate and

Immerse yourself

top guitarist Gary Moore. 7pm. Tickets £18.

Breakfast with Santa, 9th & 16th December Bring your little ones for a continental-style breakfast, with games, music and a photo op with the big man! 9.30-11am. £12.50 per child. www.tivolivenue.com

Small treasures

•

Until 31st December, ‘Slate: A Different View’, National Slate Museum, Llanberis A photo exhibition focusing on the awe-inspiring and extraordinary nature of the landscape, together with industrial history and the local community.

Open daily 10am-5pm. Free.

•

Until 10th March 24, David Nash: ‘Seeing Trees’, Oriel Môn, Anglesey Highlighting David’s unique relationship with trees, not only as source material but also as a crucial part of ecology.

Tues-Sun 10am-5pm. Free.

DID YOU KNOW? Sister Sledge were trained by their grandma Viola.

They truly are family!

Multidisciplinary artist Taloi Havini uses photography, audio, video, sculpture, immersive installation and print. Catch her exhibition at Mostyn Llandudno until 30th March 2024 as part of Artes Mundi 10. Tuesday– Saturday 10.30am-4.30pm.

Free entry. www.mostyn.org Established in 2002, Artes Mundi is committed to artists whose work engages with social reality and lived experience, and presents exhibitions at five venues across Wales.

16 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

Rhyl Miniature Railway has been delighting visitors for over 100 years. Its steam trains were built during the 1920s and have been hauling passengers around Marine Lake ever since! Weekends in December & from 18th24th, experience Santa’s Special Train Ride, and after, the Big Man will present a gift to every child. Tickets £4.50 (child £12.50). www. rhylminiaturerailway.co.uk

Winter highlight Anglesey Winter Fair has it all: livestock, equine and produce exhibitors, a fun dog show, small pet classes and the latest agricultural machinery, all undercover in the Pavilion

building and cattle sheds. Taking place on 4th-5th November, it’s a great day out for the family in the heart of beautiful Anglesey.

Tickets are £5 (under-16s free). www.angleseyshow.org.uk

Whether it's some family fun, a special gift, a winter-warming treat or a relaxing scenic steam-hauled train ride - there's something for everyone during this festive season at the F&WHR...

Santa Trains & Grotto Join Santa on our special trains from Caernarfon to Rhyd Ddu - or visit him in his Grotto at Porthmadog.

See our website for the latest details and to book tickets.

Seasonal Snowdonia: We will be running steam trains in December - so come along and enjoy a scenic ride in one of our comfortable, heated carriages. Book your festive train tickets online.

Christmas Gifts: Our shops stock a wide range of local gifts, toys, souvenirs, clothing, Blu-Ray / DVDs, books, models and accessories.

You can also shop online 24/7 @ www.festshop.co.uk

FFESTINIOG & WELSH HIGHLAND RAILWAYS Harbour Station, Porthmadog, LL49 9NF • St. Helen's Road, Caernarfon, LL55 2PF More details @ festrail.co.uk/christmas or scan the QR code 01766 516024

Dyddiadau i’ch Dyddiadur Dates for your Diary Ballet Cymru:

TIR / Stream of Consciousness

Llŷr Williams 7.12.23

30.11.23

Cerddorfa WNO

Dathliad Fiennaidd WNO Orchestra

A Viennese Celebration

11.01.24

The Elton John Show 9.12.23

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Scott Bennett

Great Scott

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MID WALES WHAT’S ON

DID YOU KNOW? Thackeray also wrote under the pen name Michael Angelo Titmarsh

A festive pick ’n’ mix at Aberystwyth Arts Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes, 22nd November Ballet Cymru dance ‘Little Red Riding Hood” and ‘The Three Little Pigs’, with glorious costumes and stunning video. 7.30pm. Tickets £20 (child £10).

Vanity Fair, 7th-8th December A modern take on Thackeray’s story of the charismatic and amoral Becky Sharp navigating a world of rivalries and glittering prizes. 7.30pm. Tickets £14 (concessions £10).

A Christmas Carol - A Live Radio Play, 29th November Lighthouse Theatre returns with an innovative adaptation of the Dickens’ classic, full of festive feeling, ghostly encounters, hardship and redemption. 7.30pm. Tickets £16.50 (concessions £13.50).

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, 14th-16th December Enjoy CS Lewis’s iconic story of the world of Narnia where good triumphs over evil in the time-honoured way. 7.30pm, Saturday also 2.30pm.

Tickets £15 (child £11). www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk

Bikes, boots, beer!

Combine your exercise with some real ale on a pub adventure with Green Events. The Real Ale Wobble on 18th November starts from Llanwrtyd Wells at 10am and follows a choice of 15-mile or 28-mile routes through some of the most unspoilt scenery. Entry is £25.

The Real Ale Ramble on 25th & 26th November offers waymarked routes of 12 and 20 miles (entry from £12) or guided routes of five or eight miles (£5 per day), with beer at the checkpoints! There’ll be entertainment in the pubs on both evenings. www.green-events.co.uk

Get festive at Llanerchaeron Catch a fantastic opportunity for some gift shopping at Llanerchaeron’s Christmas Fair on 1st-3rd December, from 10am. There’ll be food and craft stalls, mince pies, mulled wine, and on Saturday and Sunday a chance to meet Santa (11am-3pm). Normal admission charges apply.

On 8th-10th December join gardener Meg to create a festive wreath using natural materials found on the estate. £25 (including mince pie). www.nationaltrust.org.uk

18 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

Barmouth bash

The community comes together on 7th December as the lights are switched by the Mayor at 5.30pm, surrounded by carol singers. Listen to the Samba Bermo band and choirs as you sip mulled wine, enjoy late-night shopping, visit Santa’s Grotto or the many pubs offering live music.

Art and the environment

Carolina Caycedo is a multidisciplinary artist known for her videos, books, sculptures and installations that examine environmental and social issues. Catch the premier of her exhibition ‘Fuel to Fire’ at Newtown’s Oriel Davies gallery. It’s running until 25th February 2024 as part of Artes Mundi 10.

Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm. Free entry. www.orieldavies.org

MEET SANTA’S ELVES

Somewhere in a mine near Aberystwyth, Santa’s elves are busily preparing for Christmas!

Come and visit their workshop at the Silver Mountain Experience, where you will find Santa in his Grotto on 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th & 23rd December. Explore Rudolph and Patches’ Treasure Trail, the Woo Hoo Woods and much more. Each child will receive a gift and can decorate a Christmas cookie. Tickets www.silvermountainexperience.co.uk

WHAT’S ON MID WALES

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 9TH-18TH NOVEMBER

lso er me elo

Christmas comes to Gregynog

THE BIG SING! Enjoy mince pies and carols in the Courtyard, 23rd December at 6pm

Christmas Afternoon Tea throughout December Celebrate with sandwiches and cakes, tea, coffee, Prosecco or mulled wine. Tickets from £19.50.

Christmas Wreath Making, 16th & 21st December Join the RHS-trained gardener for a creative afternoon. 1-4pm. Tickets £40.

Breakfast with Santa 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd December Eat with the Big Man, followed by storytime in the panelled Blayney Room and a gift for every child. 9-10am. Tickets £16.95.

Choral Christmas with Quindici, 17th December The historic Music Room hosts a traditional concert with the chamber choir. 3pm.

Tickets £10. www.gregynog.org

Art is fun

Catherine Jones offers accessible art workshops at The Old Bell Museum in Montgomery. Paint a Montgomery Scene on 18th November using collage, ink and more. Art is Fun on 19th offers families the chance to make winter decorations, and on 21st you can learn new pencil techniques. For times and prices see www.eventbrite.co.uk

Treats at Pavilion Mid Wales The Watch Plays Genesis, 8th November The acclaimed tribute band perform their new show ‘Foxtrot & Selling England by the Pound’, showcasing a vocalist who is a close match to Peter Gabriel. 7.30pm. Tickets £17.60.

Artisan Market, 9th December A shop window for local artists, makers and producers.

Free. www.pavilion midwales.org.uk

Winter at The Workhouse

The Workhouse is an atmospheric setting for Llanfyllin’s Bonfire Night on 5th November. The fun starts from 6pm. Then get festive on the 9th December at their Christmas Fair, where you can buy from local craft makers and sample artisan food and drink. From 10am, free entry, parking £3. www.llanfyllinworkhouse.org.uk

Christmas at the Castle Enjoy a shopping trail and see Santa at Cardigan’s Christmas Fair on 25th November from 10am-4pm. The Castle will host over 40 craft stalls, with festive food, mulled wine and Santa’s Grotto – every child will receive a gift and have the chance for a photo with the big man. Fair entry is £3 (under-16s free) and the Grotto £5 per child. www.cardigancastle.com

SANTA SPECIAL

Defy Scrooge and his like and take a steam train to meet Santa on the Rheilffordd Corris Railway, Machynlleth.

Special services will run on 9th & 10th December, with presents for the children, activities to take part in and seasonal refreshments for all.

Tickets £7.50 adults, under-16s £10. www.corris.co.uk

9th & 23rd November, Have•A-Go Shakespeare, Wyeside

Arts Centre, Builth Wells Come and explore Shakespeare’s texts in reading and performance.

10.30am-1pm. Free.

November, The Jerseys, •Y 10th Tabernacl, Machynlleth Celebrate the timeless music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, with all the hits including ‘Oh What a Night!’

7.30pm. Tickets from £21.

10th November, Blazin’ •Fiddles, Aberystwyth

Arts Centre Encompassing a virtuosic selection of the fiddle’s diverse Highland and island voices, in their 25 years the Blazers have become one of the world’s most prolific ensembles. 7.30pm.

Tickets from £19.

Until 11th November, ‘Milk •Wood & Manhattan’, National

Library of Wales, Aberystwyth Go on a journey from Manhattan to Milk Wood, exploring Dylan Thomas’s time in the US, the creation of Llareggub and its characters, and the lasting legacy of Under Milk Wood.

Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9.30am5pm. Free entry.

18th November, Mozart's •Requiem, St Andrew's Church, Presteigne Kington Choral Society performs this stirring choral masterpiece whose genesis is shrouded in mystery.

7.30pm. Tickets £20.

November, Renewables •for18th Households: Insulation, Centre for Alternative Technology, Machynlleth A one-day course on how to identify draughts and air leakage and useful improvement techniques. 9.30am4pm. £ 125.

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 19

MID WALES WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 18TH NOVEMBER – 2ND DECEMBER

•

From 18th November, Mid Wales Beer Festival, Neuadd Arms Hotel, Llanwrtyd Wells Held in the Free Houses of the town, this 10-day festival offers a tremendous selection of real ales including many Welsh brews. Entertainment is on offer at weekends.

Variety at Wyeside Arts Centre Alaw, 11th November The Welsh band performs music inspired by the seascapes, mountains and wild woodland of home. 7.30pm. Tickets £15.

Kroke, 17th November This Polish trio performs an exquisite mix of modern Polish, klezmer, jazz and classical chamber music. 7.30pm. Tickets £18.

The Wizard of Oz, 23rd November A family-

•

22nd November, London Film Music Orchestra, Aberystwyth Arts Centre Enjoy cinema's greatest themes performed under a mesmerising giant moon, including music from Star Wars, Pirates of the Caribbean, Harry Potter, Inception and more.

6pm & 8.30pm. Tickets £32.

•

26th November, Mike Parker, The Assembly Rooms, Presteigne Mike’s book All the Wide Border, is a funny, warm and timely meditation on identity and belonging, set along the scenic Wales– England border.

3pm. Tickets £5.

•

2nd December, A Christmas Carol – It's Never Too Late To Change, Judge's Lodging, Presteigne Jonathan Goodwin of Don't Go Into The Cellar Theatre Company plays the great Charles Dickens as he brings to life one of the most famous ghost stories of all time. Enjoy interval refreshments around the tree and a roaring fire to warm you. 7.30pm.

Tickets £12.50.

friendly adaptation of the iconic tale by Ballet Theatre UK. 7.30pm. Tickets £20 (child £12).

Wyeside Fundraiser: The Best of Gilbert & Sullivan, 15th December A marvellous miscellany of songs from popular G&S operas including ‘Take a Pair of Sparkling Eyes’, ‘The Major-General’s Song’, ‘The Policeman’s Song’ and many more.

7pm. Tickets £18 (child £10). www.wyeside.co.uk

MUSICIANS ASSEMBLE

Just two of the highlights at Presteigne Assembly Rooms this autumn: Gail Davies, 18th November The award-winning singer, songwriter, author, producer and member of Oklahoma's Music Hall of Fame performs with her trio. 8pm. Tickets £15 (under-25s £10).

Lodestar Trio, 29th November Catch this unique collaboration between stars of the Scandinavian folk scene Erik Rydvall and Olav Mjelva and British violin virtuoso Max Baillie. Together they bring a spirit of groove and improvisation into Baroque music. 8pm. Tickets £15 (under-25s £10). www.midborderarts.com

•

2nd December, Christmas Cracker Market, Welshpool This lively fair will feature over 100 stalls, a Santa grotto and seasonal food and drink, and is raising money for Shrewsbury’s Lingen Davies Cancer Fund. 10am-4pm.

Free entry.

DID YOU KNOW? Alaw won a Wales Folk Award 2023 for their song ‘Fill the House’

Laughter and song at Mwldan

Ivo Graham – Organised Fun, 8th November The Taskmaster star ropes his audience into more chaos against the clock. Expect quizzes, tangents and fluster! 8pm. Tickets £16.

Andy Parsons – Bafflingly Optimistic, 1st December Enjoy Andy’s scathing humour as seen on Netflix, Live at The Apollo and Mock the Week.

8pm. Ages 14-plus. Tickets £17.

Robin Hood: The Pantomime Adventure, 16th30th December Join Robin and his Merry Men for slapstick and songs from across the decades.

Times vary. Tickets £8. www.mwldan.co.uk

A paws in festivities…

If Christmas is all getting a bit much, blow away the cobwebs at Powis Castle. Paws At Powis runs until the end of February, allowing you and your pooch to enjoy walkies like no other. Explore the Wilderness and Formal Garden, or find a quiet spot on the Italianate Terraces to admire breathtaking views across the Severn Valley.

Open 10am-4pm. Normal admission applies. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

20 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

... treftadaeth a diwylliant Cymru a chenhedloedd Celtaidd.

... the heritage and culture of Wales and the Celtic nations.

• Mynediad am ddim i’r Ystafelloedd Darllen ac adnoddau • Arddangosfeydd am ddim • Rhaglen amrywiol o ddigwyddiadau a gweithgareddau • Caffi Pen Dinas yn gweini bwyd cartref • Siop yn gwerthu nwyddau Cymreig

A S

E L

y da

nd

• Free admission to the Reading Rooms and resources • Free exhibitions • A diverse programme of events and activities • Caffi Pen Dinas serving home cooked food • Shop selling Welsh products

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a nu

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27/10/2023 12:18

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WHAT’S ON MID WALES

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 9TH-29TH DECEMBER

Cows, crafts and Christmas cheer As one of the finest stock shows in Europe, the Royal Welsh Winter Fair in Builth Wells on 27th & 28th November draws huge crowds for two days of competitions, festivities and shopping. The fair is a hugely popular attraction on the British agricultural show calendar, as leading stockmen and women from all over the UK compete for the top accolades. Away from the judging rings the very

NEW YEAR, OLD TRADITION

Llanwrtyd Wells offers a New Year’s Eve with a difference. Follow the procession from the town square at 10pm to experience an ancient Welsh tradition. With burning torches lighting the way, the procession accompanies a decorated horse’s skull atop a pole to the Aberrant Lake Hotel.

There’ll be a re-enactment of the traditional ‘Mari Lwyd’, an exchange of challenges and banter between the bearer of the ‘Mari’ and their followers, in order to gain admission and refreshment!

Afterwards, return to the town square for midnight celebrations. www.green-events.co.uk

best of Welsh food producers will be showcasing their wares, and Christmas shoppers can explore hundreds of trade stands, demonstrations and exhibitions while soaking up the festive atmosphere – and, of course, Father Christmas will make an appearance! On Monday 27th there’s late-night shopping and a spectacular fireworks display. From 8am. Day tickets £20 (child £5). www.rwas.wales

MAKING AN IMPACT

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10th December, Willow Wreath Making Workshop, RSPB Ynys-hir, Machynlleth Learn how to make a festive wreath using natural materials harvested from the Reserve.

Whilst you’re creating, you’ll be topped up with tea, coffee and cake! 10am-noon or 1.30-3.30 pm.

Tickets £25.75.

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During lockdown, artist Angharad Pearce Jones constructed a steel installation piece in her own home. You can see ‘Impactardrawiad’ at Aberystwyth Arts Centre until 12th November. ‘Mutable’ by Ruth Packham, which runs until 30th November, is her response to nature and birds, change and migration.

Martine Ormerord shows a collection of images until 3rd December, and Alice Briggs exhibits images inspired by the Cambrian Mountains until 28th January. Entry is free. For opening times see www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk

Santa by steam

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9th December, Natasha Watts, Mwldan, Cardigan Ease into Christmas with the soulful voice of Natasha Watts, who delivers a night of classic Bond anthems sprinkled with a seasonal coating of Christmas celebration. 7.30pm. Tickets £20.

16th December, Welsh of the West End at Christmas, Aberystwyth Arts Centre Experience an intimate night of festive song, featuring favourites from Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera, Wicked and more, along with Christmas classics. 8pm.

Tickets from £20.

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22nd December, Sgarmes Singalong, Aberystwyth Arts Centre For that really festive feeling, come and sing along with Elinor Powell’s Sgarmes at this hugely popular charity event, which raises money for Bronglais Hospital’s League of Friends.

7.30pm.

Tickets £10 (child £5).

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Enjoy a heritage steam train ride and meet Father Christmas on the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway. For the first three weekends in December and on the 18th, 22nd & 23rd, the popular Santa Specials will run from Llanfair Caereinion station. The cost for children and adults is £21.50, which includes a quality, age-appropriate gift for the children and festive refreshments for everyone. Father Christmas meets the children in the carriages, so there is no waiting in line. The festivities continue after Christmas, with Mince Pie Specials from 28th-30th December steaming you into the New Year. Book online at www.wllr.org.uk

29th December, Welsh Wrestling, Victoria Hall, Lampeter This Christmas, thrill to live body-slamming family entertainment in a one-night extravaganza – get ready to rumble! 7pm. Tickets £10.

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 23

CHESHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 3RD-18TH NOVEMBER

WHAT’S ON CHESHIRE

Stories to tell A book, a song, a play? It’s all at Chester’s Storyhouse!

The Good Enough Mums Club, 3rd & 4th November A hilarious new musical, written and performed by mothers. 7.30pm & relaxed show 2.30pm Saturday. Tickets £21.

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4th November, Rotary Club Bonfire, Congleton Park With fairground rides, stalls, refreshments and two firework displays: a children’s display at 6.30pm and the main display at 7.30pm. Gates 4pm. Tickets £10 (child £6, under-5s free).

An Evening with Nadiya Hussain, 13th November The much-loved TV chef and writer shares recipe secrets from Nadiya’s Simple Spices.. 7pm. Tickets £20.

Bob Harris & Colin Hall – The Songs the Beatles Gave Away, 25th November Including rare archive interviews with Lennon & McCartney. 7.30pm. £20.

Cinderella, 1st December-6th January Storyhouse’s family-friendly Christmas show is packed with pop favourites and magical moments. A great time is guaranteed. Oh yes it is! Various times. Tickets from £15. www.storyhouse.com

The mighty Wylie

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4th November, Betley Bonfire, Betley Court Farm One of the biggest bonfires in the UK, with a spectacular fireworks display, rides galore from Stanworths Funfair, lots of food vendors, and the HitMix 107.5 FM Roadshow! From 4pm. Tickets £12 (child £10, under-4s free).

Part-time rock star, full-time legend. Pete Wylie – One Man and his Wah! is at Alexander’s Live, Chester on 16th November. This will be a very special, intimate gig with one of the most charismatic personalities of the British music scene. His string of hits include ‘The Story of the Blues’, ‘Come Back’, ‘Sinful’ and the LFC anthem ‘Heart As Big As Liverpool’. Doors 7.30pm, tickets £22. www.alexanderslive.com

Happy Hogmanay!

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4th November, Just Above Snakes!, Market Hall, Crewe This local folk duo bring energetic covers of original songs to liven your nights out!

8pm. Free.

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11th-18th November, A Christmas Carol, Chester Little Theatre, Chester Dickens’ timeless tale of redemption and festive goodwill, in an original adaptation

by Andy FoxHutchings.

7pm.

Tickets £12.

DID YOU KNOW? Journalist Colin Hall is custodian at John Lennon’s childhood home, Mendips

Into the WILD

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3rd November, Firework Extravaganza, Macclesfield Football Club Come and join in the fun! There’s food and drink, music and fun for the kids. 5pm. Tickets £10 (child £6, under-2s free).

Celebrate, indulge and party at Carden Park this New Year’s Eve. With adult-only and family parties to choose from, you’ll savour a three-course gala dinner, then enjoy a live band and disco throughout the evening, a private firework display over the lake at midnight, followed by haggis, neeps and tatties while a traditional piper brings you past the midnight hour. Enquire for details, call 01829 731 555.

24 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

Explore brand-new areas of BeWILDerwood as you follow the Sparkly Light Trail, discovering silly snowmen, curious crackers and a giant Christmas pud. The mini pantomime will reveal what Santa is doing visiting the WILD woods.

Full of festive cheer, this is a unique spin on a traditional panto. From 4pm on selected dates between 2nd-23rd December. Tickets £15.50 (under 92cm free). www.bewilderwood.co.uk

In the Land of Snow Sneaky Experience returns to Arley Hall on 20th-24th December with a new festive tale, The Nutcracker.

It’s the night before Christmas and as Clara and her toy nutcracker doll drift off to sleep, their dreams are invaded by the evil Mouse King! Share in her adventure through the Land of Snow, ending with an audience with Santa and a gift to take home.

Tickets from £27.50 (under-2s free). Book your timed slot at www.arleyhallandgardens.com

WHAT’S ON CHESHIRE

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 22ND-30TH NOVEMBER

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22nd-25th November, The Wolves of Willoughby Chase, Daneside Theatre, Congleton A thrilling adventure set in an alternative history of England, telling the story of two brave and determined girls as they fight against ferocious wolves in snowy wastelands and their very evil guardian, Miss Slighcarp.

7.30pm. Tickets £10.

Nights to remember Fun is guaranteed at Northwich Memorial Hall:

Walk Like a Man, 3rd November Celebrating the 60th anniversary of The Four Seasons, producer Mark Halliday has assembled a cast of West End performers. 7.30pm. Tickets £25.

From Gold to Rio, 11th November The hits of the New Romantics. 7.30pm. Tickets £21.

New at the zoo

Lanterns and Light is an exciting new light and sound installation for the festive season from Chester Zoo and Sony Music. Be transported to enchanting lands and meet lions, orang utans, lions, dolphins and woolly mammoths as you make your way along the illuminated trail.

From 17th November31st December, timed slots from 4.15-8pm. Tickets from £12, book at www.chesterzoo.org

Season of song

Join the Northern Chamber Orchestra for its annual Christmas Concert in the grand Tenants’ Hall at Tatton Park. Expect seasonal favourites, readings and carols by the Choir of St Nicholas Catholic High School, Northwich – plus the chance to join in! Performances on 8th December are at 3.30pm, or 7pm with a tour of the mansion house. Tickets £21, evening £28 (child £11 or £18) including car entry to park.

Murder at the Red Mill, 24th November A cabaret parody murder mystery experience full of joie de vivre! 7.30pm. Tickets £42.

Beauty and the Beast, 9th-31st December Les Dennis, Ryan Greaves and Georgie Jackson promise an all-singing, all-dancing ride through Pantoland. Various times and prices. www.brioleisure.org

A Christmas cracker

Have a fiendishly good time on a murder mystery night at the Crown Hotel, Nantwich on 18th November. In Sinderella, Pantoland’s meanest sisters are making a beautiful girl’s life a misery, the prince is on a mission, but someone has ended up dead. Tickets £52.50 include arrival drink, four-course meal with professional actors and a disco. www. crownhotelnantwich.com

Gifts galore

A magical experience awaits at Chester Christmas Market, where 70 traders will fill the square around the Town Hall and the new arcade, surrounding the sparkling tree. Discover unique, locally made produce and handmade crafts, jewellery, accessories and stocking fillers. The market runs from 17th November-21st December, and is open 10.30am6.30pm, and until 8pm Thursday-Saturday.

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23rd November, 12 Days of Christmas Parade, Chester The parade starts from Bridge Street and weaves through the city, the lights illuminating as it passes through, ending up at the Christmas Market.

7pm. Free.

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24th November, Rodent Husbandry and Management Workshop, Chester Zoo Designed for keepers currently working with or looking to develop their skills, this includes a range of in and ex situ rodent management projects.

9.30am. £50.

November, •29th Christmas

Wreath Making Workshop, The White Lion, Hankelow Learn how to make a beautiful real spruce and moss, using fragrant, locally sourced foliage and other handdried foraged materials. 7pm.

Ticket £50, includes a glass of fizz and a mince pie.

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30th November & 7th December, Festive Cheese & Wine Evening, Capesthorne Hall, nr Macclesfield Enjoy delicious food and drink whilst gaining additional knowledge from the experts at Knowles Green. 6.30pm. Tickets £45.

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 25

CHESHIRE WHAT’S ON

Live at the Lyceum

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 1ST-4TH DECEMBER December, Olive and •1stStitch Christmas Market,

Sandbach This artisan market of over 25 stalls will be bursting with locally made gifts. Stalls include plants, handmade soap and shampoo bars, fair trade, cosmetics, cards, bags, upcycling & much more! 3pm. Free.

Crewe’s beautiful theatre always delivers…

Paul Young – Behind the Lens, 5th November On the 40th anniversary of his No.1 album No Parlez, Paul has released a new record and published a memoir of the same name. 7.30pm.

Tickets £34 (VIP option £50, Meet & Greet £85).

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1st-7th December, Festively Floral, Arley Hall, Northwich See the Hall and Chapel creatively decorated with fresh flowers and foliage from the gardens by local florists and horticultural colleges, with performances from the Rock Choir. From 10am. Tickets £13 (child £5) online in advance.

4th December, Vintage •Christmas Angel, Stitch,

Tarporley A fun-filled evening to get you in the Christmas spirit (with a glass of Prosecco to help!), making a delightful treetopping angel from linen and cotton, using machine and hand-stitching techniques.

6.30pm. £50.

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4th-9th December, Macbeth, MADS Little Theatre, Macclesfield Superstition, madness and murder abound in Shakespeare’s masterful tragedy of greed, ambition and lust for power. 7.45pm. Tickets from £10.

Lucy Beaumont – The Trouble and Strife, 12th November Life through the Beaumont lens is more surreal than you could ever imagine! Suitable for ages 14-plus. 8pm. Tickets £26.50.

memories wake from the dead, but something else waits for him, something much worse. 7.30pm. £22.

Shock Horror, 16th-18th November Obsessed with finishing his life’s work, a horror fan returns to a haunted cinema. As his mind unravels, painful

Cinderella, 8th-31st December The magical family pantomime, starring X Factor winner Matt Terry as Prince Charming and treasured dame Malcolm Lord as the Fairy Godmother. Various times.

Tickets from £25.50. www.crewelyceum.co.uk

Twinkle, twinkle

Watch out

© Raymond Gubbay

•

2nd & 3rd December, Knutsford Christmas Market, Silk Mill Street, Knutsford A two-day street market packed with the finest local artisan food, drink, art, jewellery, crafts and special gifts, with Santa’s Grotto and the big Christmas Light Switch On, featuring live entertainment, a funfair, street food and loads more. 4pm. Free.

DID YOU KNOW? Paul Young is a keen cook and has appeared on Celebrity Masterchef

Chester’s Winter Watch parade dates from the 1400s and this year takes place on 7th & 14th December, starting at Town Hall Square at 7pm and continuing around the city centre, taking in St Werburgh, Northgate and Bridge Streets, with dance, fire breathing and sword fights in Eastgate Street and in the Square. And it’s free!

Masses of twinkling lights and sparkling giant deer welcome you to Dunham Massey after dark, as colour-changing lasers reach into the night sky and winding paths pass tunnels of stars. Watch lights dance along the lawn and marvel at larger-than-life flowers blooming overhead. Christmas at Dunham Massey runs from 17th November-31st December.

Tickets for a prebooked slot cost from £19 (child £12.50). www.christmasatdunhammassey.com

You should be dancing

Jive Talkin’ are renowned as the original and best Bee Gees tribute show, and the only Bee Gees tribute to have actually performed with the original Bee Gees! You can catch them on 17th November at Ellesmere Port Civic Hall. Show starts 7.30pm, tickets £22.50 from www.brioleisure.org

26 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

The brunch bunch

Fancy joining Santa for Sunday Brunch in Chester Cathedral’s Refectory, the beautiful 13thcentury monks’ dining hall? Prebook your spot from 8.45am any Sunday from 26th November-24th December. Breakfast costs £15 (child £10) and all children with tickets will meet Santa and receive a selection box. www.chestercathedral.com.

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WHAT’S ON CHESHIRE

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 5TH-9TH DECEMBER

Welcome to Wonderland

Tatton Park offers magical festive fun with events to please everyone. Find yourself in the world of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland in the Mansion, where you’ll be entertained by charming characters and illuminated displays in the state rooms and servants’ quarters.

Yuletide: A Glittering Winter Garden Adventure features a spectacular illuminated trail, where winter goddesses have captured the moon and sun,

Winter warmer

and shape-shifting snow hares play tricks on us all. Enjoy live music and fire-breathing antics, and roasting marshmallows around the campfire.

Little ones will love visiting Father Christmas at Tatton Farm, with roaming entertainers, festive choirs and brass bands, and treats in the Christmas Cafe. You’ll find all the dates, times and ticket prices at www.tattonpark.org.uk

the garden, or head out into the 1,400-acre estate for walks through woods and across moorland for far-reaching views. Open daily 1st-24th December from 11am. Tickets £13 (child £6.50; park and garden only £6, child £3). Book online at www.nationaltrust.org.uk

© National Trust/Jan-Christof Telford

Get into the festive spirit with a visit to Lyme Park. In the house, Christmas has been interrupted by an animal takeover! Listen to carols in the Timber Yard, wrap up and explore

DID YOU KNOW? Lewis Carroll invented a code called nyctography, so he could write in the dark

•

5th December, Needle Felting, Congleton Museum Learn how to make a needlefelted Christmas bauble with Kath Maluk. All materials and tools provided. 2pm. £12.

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7th December, Stevie O’Connnor, Ebenezer’s, Crewe Singersongwriter Stevie is an awardwinning country music artist, recently crowned Best Breakthrough Artist at the British Country Music Awards. Roots at Ebenezer’s is a monthly live-streamed concert featuring Americana and roots music from the UK and beyond.

8pm. Tickets £10.

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7th December, Matt Deighton, The Hive, Winsford 2021 saw the re-emergence of British folk’s most enigmatic lost son. Matt’s is a story of genuinely great musicianship and songwriting. You may recognise him from his time fronting Acid Jazz heroes Mother Earth, or as Paul Weller’s guitarist from the late ’90s. 7pm. Tickets £18.

They will rock you!

Boogie boat

ChesterBoat is lighting up the river in December! On Fridays & Saturdays from 24th November-16th December, Christmas Party Nights Afloat are perfect for your office party or a festive catch-up with friends. Tickets from £29.50 include a glass of wine, a hot festive supper and a disco playing a mix of floor-fillers and cheesy Christmas classics!

The three-hour cruise sails at 7pm in an enclosed, heated boat with fully stocked bar. Book at www.chesterboat.co.uk

Let Women in Rock take you on a spectacular trip through five decades of music. The show on 10th November at Nantwich Civic Hall features world-class musicians celebrating the likes of Cher, Bonnie Tyler, P!nk, Suzi Quatro, Tina Turner and more, with soaring vocals and striking costumes. 7.30pm. £15. www. nantwich towncouncil.gov.uk

•

A wild time

On 2nd-3rd, 9th-10th & 16th-17th December, have some festive fun with a difference at Reaseheath College’s Zoo. Follow the Christmas trail around the enclosures to see winter wallabies, festive foxes, merry meerkats, seasonal snakes, gracious goats and dashing donkeys! Open from 10am, tickets £6 (child £5).

You’ll find Santa in his Christmas grotto at the zoo on Saturdays only, 1.304.30pm, entry £10 includes gift. www.reaseheath.ac.uk

7th & 8th December, Tip Top’s Christmas Concert, St Mary’s Creative Space, Chester A night of Christmas music featuring a wonderful mix of carols, festive pop, excerpts from Christmas films and songs from the musicals.

7.30pm. Tickets £15.

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9th December, Benji Kirkpatrick & The Excess, Lion Salt Works, Northwich A rhythmic alt roots sound, with beautiful, emotional moments and a strong underlying power. 8pm.

Tickets £15.

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 29

CHESHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 9TH-21ST DECEMBER 10th, 16th & 17th •9th, December, Santa

Visits Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre, Tarporley Meet Santa and receive a gift, and enjoy the magnificent horses and other animals on the farm. 10am. Tickets £11 (child £17, under-3s £9.50).

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14th December, Christmas Crochet, Congleton Museum Make your own mini Christmas wreath whilst enjoying mulled wine and Christmas cake, plus some cheesy Christmas music.

Cliff Richard, anyone? 6pm. £18.

Lights fantastic

From 24th November Bolesworth will be bathed in light, the grounds aglow with thousands of coloured lights and effects, projections and interactive installations. Thrill to the fairground rides and attractions or get your skates on at the Real Ice Skating Rink, then wander the Christmas Village, past the Alpine Lodge and Rudolph’s Rest to discover the Champagne Bar!

DID YOU KNOW? Bolesworth bridge was built by Robert Mylne, who also built London’s From 27th-31st December Blackfriars the Festive Farmers Christmas Display will be showcasing their dazzling array of light-covered tractors, raising money for Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.

And on 31st December at 8pm, what better way to round off the festive season and celebrate the New Year than with Bolesworth’s spectacular fireworks display. Tickets £30.95 (ages 3-12 £20.95, under-3s free). Check availability and book in advance at www.bolesworth.com

Making connections

What the Dickens!

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16th-24th December, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Ellesmere Port Civic Hall Anton Benson Productions returns with another sensational family pantomime! 2pm. From £16.

Artist Wendy Connelly and poet Robin Bailey (UrbanHerne) have created Gateway, a project born of a desire to connect and reimagine familiar spaces in what they call home, their city of Chester.

Experience Gateway at the Grosvenor Museum from 4th November. It’s free admission, and the museum is open Tuesday-Saturday 10.30am-5pm, Sunday 1-4pm. Call 01244 972 197 for details.

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18th December, Christmas Crackers, Chester Cathedral Poet Lemn Sissay is guest presenter for this family celebration concert, featuring Chester Music Society Choir, Chester Philharmonic Orchestra and the children of Chester Cathedral Saturday Singing club. 7.30pm. Tickets from £15.

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21st December, The Beat, The Live Rooms, Chester One of the key bands of the UK ska revival of the late ’70s and early ’80s, The Beat achieved a nearperfect balance of pop melodies and taut rhythms that made them stars in Britain and won them a worldwide following. 7pm. Tickets £22.

We’re not going out

Here’s a great night out if you want to stay in! Tom’s Tap, Crewe has arranged an online Cheese Night on 17th November, in association with The Cheese Shop, Nantwich. Craft beers curated by Tom’s head brewer are expertly matched with artisan cheese for the tasting, which takes place in the comfort of your own living room, on Zoom, from 8pm. Both beer and cheese will be delivered to you prior to the event. Price £45, or £59 for double cheese! www.tomstap.co.uk

30 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

Half gig, half dance show, half panto – it’s The Lock In ‘Christmas Carol’ at Clonter Theatre, Macclesfield on 16th December! Christmas Eve and the regulars of The Olde Fighting Cocks are all set fo the Folk & Hip Hop dance party of the year. But landlady Jasmineezer Scrooge is preparing to launch the Oompah Techno Bar. Luckily help is on hand… Starts 7.30pm, tickets £21 (under-16s £11). www.clonter.org

Sail with Santa

Santa returns to celebrate this festive season with the folk at the Anderton Boat Lift. He is bringing with him some helpers, his storybook, some new songs – and we’re sure some gifts too! Join the Santa Breakfast Cruise on 2nd & 3rd December at 10am.

Breakfast is served in the coffee shop, then Santa will escort everyone to the boat and entertain you on the 45-minute cruise. £20 per person (child ticket includes gift). www.canalrivertrust.org.uk

winter wonderland walk

Through the Parkland and Walled Gardens of

Poulton Hall CH63 9LN

Set in the heart of the wonderful Welsh countryside, at the foothills of Bannau Brycheiniog, Glansevin is a beautiful Georgian mansion which was largely built during the Napoleonic war as a family home.

Glansevin offers you a unique and comfortable setting, with privacy and seclusion, with the opportunity to enjoy its gracious rooms full of character and charm.

Exclusively yours, we can accommodate parties of up to 80 guests indoors (with over 40 guests staying in the property itself. We can add some additional camp beds and cots for children. Our neighbours, The Carriage Rooms, can offer accommodation for a further 16 guests).

For larger numbers during the day and evening, a marquee can be set up on our back lawn.

We are a licensed wedding venue, but if your ceremony is elsewhere, we would be

just as delighted to host everything else.

We are a self-catering venue, but we can recommend some excellent local caterers or you are welcome to bring your own caterer.

We have a fully equipped catering kitchen.

Also, we do not charge an extra fee or corkage for alcohol, so you are free to bring your own refreshments and use the bar facility in the drawing room at no additional cost.

We want to provide you with an environment that you can truly make your own, from colourful, festival-themed weddings with circus acts to traditional white weddings with elegant décor; rustic, nature-inspired celebrations with simple wildflower bouquets; with options of either getting married outside, if you would like, next to our 900-year old oak tree, or inside Glansevin itself, we want this special day to be truly yours.

Saturday December 3rd Sunday December 4th | Tuesday December 6th From 4.30pm to 7.30pm with admission times from 4.30 to 6.30pm, bookable at ticketsource.co.uk.

For details see poultonhall.co.uk Adults £10, Children £5.

Admission price includes hot chocolate and gingerbread biscuits.

b

Llangadog, Carmarthenshire, Wales, SA19 9HY enquiries@glansevin.com | www.glansevinmansion.com

H AV E A N A B S O L U T E B A L L T H I S C H R I S T M A S! 1 DECEMBER – 6 JANUARY | TICKETS FROM £15 Book now at storyhouse.com

027_SHIRE_ND2023.indd 1

27/11/2023 11:53

SHROPSHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 1ST-5TH NOVEMBER

•1st-5th November, Halloween Half Term at Stokesay Castle, Craven Arms With half term falling later this year, enjoy a frightfully fun Halloween day out into early November!

Take part in a quest to discover magic potion ingredients, enjoy spooky stories or try the family trail based on a local legend.

10am-5pm. Prices vary (English Heritage members free).

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2nd November, Yoga Flow with Amy, Weston Park, Weston Under Lizard Ease into the wonderful world of yoga with this slow flow class, designed to be mindful and relaxing, hosted in the Rose Paterson Art Gallery. 9am. Tickets £10.

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3rd November, Mobius Loop, Albert’s Shed, Shrewsbury Prepare for plenty of good vibrations, with dancing, melodies, beats and voices celebrating life and death, as gypsy folk band Mobius Loop hit Albert’s Shed following a summer touring the UK festival scene. 8pm. Tickets £12.

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3rd, 4th & 8th November, The Old Oak (cert 15), Kinokulture Cinema, Oswestry The mine has closed, and with houses lying empty, the village in the North East is an ideal location for Syrian refugees.

How will they be received – and what will be the fate of The Old Oak pub? 7.30pm. Tickets £9.

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5th November, Weston Park Bonfire & Fireworks Night, Weston-Under-Lizard One of the region’s biggest bonfire and firework displays, with funfair and food stalls. Gates 3pm, bonfire 5pm. Early bird tickets £31.50 per car (up to 6 people).

BACK WITH A BANG Shrewsbury’s popular charity Firework & Bonfire Spectacular returns to the West Mid Showground on 4th November. The area’s biggest bonfire features two displays: the first at 6.15pm is ideal for families with younger children, with a reduced level of noise. It’s followed by a louder, blockbuster display at 7.45pm. The event also includes food and

drink stalls, funfair rides and a music stage featuring Rozalla, The 90s Revival and Robbie Jones. The event has raised thousands of pounds over the years to ensure the showground can continue as a vital part of the community.

Gates 4.30pm, tickets £20 (ages 6-15 £8.50). www.westmidshowground.co.uk

Isle of adventures

Embark on an enchanting boat ride across Alderford Lake to Santa’s island, where you’ll hear all about his adventures with the elves and enjoy a yummy smore!

Then it’s time to help in the toy workshop before meeting Santa himself to make your own Christmas wish. Boats dock between 25th November-23rd December, early-bird tickets are £26 (child £28, under-twos free). www.alderford.com

Acton stations

Join a guided tour of Acton Scott Hall and gardens on 14th November, led by members of the Acton family who continue to care for this Grade II listed Elizabethan manor house, gardens and woodland. The indoor tour takes in the conservatory, drawing room, library, justice room and hallway with its Jacobean stair carving. Outside, the garden tour features the lawns and woodland paths leading to a secret rock garden. Tours begin at 10.30am and tickets cost £22, which includes refreshments. There’s also the option to book an overnight stay, with breakfast served at the 16th-century refectory table. www.actonscott.com

32 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

DID YOU KNOW? A Catherine wheel 32 metres wide was built in Malta in 2011, and it spun four times!

PIE, AYE!

Bring your appetite for a great night out. The Clive Arms, Ludlow is hosting a Pie Night on 17th November, putting a unique twist on the classics. All pies £18.50, paired with mash potato, red cabbage, garden greens and homemade gravy. Pre-order essential. www.theclive.co.uk

Simply the best

After a six-year absence, The Bootleg Sixties returned in 2022 – and they’re back to do it all over again at Festival Drayton Centre on 6th November! Dubbed “the best 60s tribute band in the world” by Sir Elton John, and with a new member and new repertoire, they’re not to be missed. 7.30pm, £25. www. festivaldraytoncentre. com

WHAT’S ON SHROPSHIRE

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 6TH-14TH NOVEMBER

GO WILD AT MIDNIGHT! Welcome in the New Year with family and friends at West Midlands Safari Park. The popular venue is hosting not one but TWO celebration events on 31st December!

The Family New Year’s Eve Party begins at 7.30pm, and features a cocktail (or mocktail) on arrival, street food with dessert stand, children’s entertainment, balloon drop, the chimes of Big Ben at midnight and a late disco with resident DJ finishing at 1am. Tickets are £55 (ages 2-12 £30).

DID YOU KNOW? In Denmark, it’s considered good luck to ‘jump into the New Year’ from a chair

For a more formal affair, there’s an over18s New Year’s Eve Ball at Spring Grove House, the elegant Georgian manor in the grounds of the safari park. Here, a Champagne reception will be followed by a sevencourse dinner, live band, entertainment and dancing until late. Dress code is black tie and evening wear.

The festivities start at 7pm, and tickets are £120 per person. www.wmsp.co.uk

Echoes of Christmas past Blists Hill Museum offers a yuletide experience with a difference with their Victorian Christmas weekends on 9th-10th and 16th-17th December. Enjoy the town’s usual exhibits whilst getting in the festive spirit with a brass band, choir, Punch and Judy show, Christmas shopping emporium and the opportunity to make Victorian candles and Christmas cards. There’ll also be the chance to meet Father Christmas in one of his grottos for an additional charge. Open 10am-4pm, tickets £25 (child £15). www.ironbridge.org.uk

Grease is the word…

Over three nights from 28th-30th November be transported back to the 1950s as Moreton Hall Senior School presents its production of Grease at the Holroyd Community Theatre. Expect slickedback hair, leather jackets, Pink Ladies and those unforgettable hits sung by Rizzo, Frenchy, Sandy and of course Danny. The show starts at 7pm, and tickets are £6 (child £3). www.theholroyd theatre.co.uk

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6th November, Jazz Café, Bill’s Kitchen, Ludlow Assembly Rooms Pop in for the pop-up jazz café and enjoy a meal and some great music from 7pm. Tickets £10, or £25 including food (served from 5.30pm).

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10th November, Onyx Brass Quintet, United Reformed Church, Shrewsbury ‘The Best of Onyx’ is a programme of music by Bach, Holst, Arnold, Gershwin and Shostakovich, designed to celebrate the group’s 30th anniversary. 7.30pm. £18 (children & full-time students £9).

•

Feeling festive With Santa arriving in town on a narrowboat, Ellesmere’s Winter Festival on 24th November is not to be missed! There’ a Christmas Market with late-night shopping, Santa’s grotto, carol singing, lantern workshops and the Fizztastical Fizzgigs Lantern Parade featuring the big man himself.

Festivities kick off at 4pm. www.ellesmere.info

Happening at Hencote There’s lots going on at Hencote this festive season, the unique Shrewsbury venue overlooking Hencote Vineyard and the Shropshire Hills beyond. From 30th November-24th December enjoy the Festive Menu at lunchtime and from 5.30-6.30pm, with two courses from £36, three courses from £42. 1st, 8th & 15th December are Festive Party Nights: enjoy an arrival drink followed by three-course meal and dancing – tickets are £49. On 31st December, see in the New Year with A Night at the Opera: arrive to a glass of Evolution, followed by a stunning eight-course menu inspired by the movies. www.hencote.com

11th November, Chris & Friends, Hermon Arts, Oswestry Following his recently released album, Celtic folk musician Chris Greve and friends Tig Kirkham, LHD, Alan Doyle and Nigel Wakeman will be performing a selection of original songs. 7.30pm.

Tickets £5.

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3th November, Spring Bulb Planting Workshop, Dorothy Clive Garden, Market Drayton Under the guidance of head gardener Zdenek Valkoun, plant up a container of bulbs to take home. A mixed workshop of theory and practical. 10am1pm. £57 (£50 for garden members).

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14th November, Dragonflies – Keeping Summer Alive, St Andrew’s Church Hall, Newport A Shropshire Wildlife Trust hosted event. Sue Rees Evans, Shropshire’s dragonfly recorder, will introduce guests to this group of insects, focusing on species found in this country.

7.30-9.15pm. £4 (SWT members £3, accompanied children free).

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 33

SHROPSHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 24TH NOVEMBER – 3RD DECEMBER

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24th November-23rd December, A Snow Princess Christmas, Hoo Zoo & Dinosaur World, Telford Meet the Snow Princesses at Hoo Zoo along with Mrs Claus and Father Christmas’ elves as you experience the zoo’s Winter Wonderland. You might even catch the Dinosaurs getting in the Christmas spirit! Noon-6pm.

Family ticket for two adults, three children from £64.95, other options available.

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24th-26th November, Christmas Fayre, Derwen College, Oswestry Get your Christmas shopping done early at the Derwen Christmas Fayre, featuring local crafts and food, stalls, grotto and fresh Christmas trees and wreaths.

Friday 4-8pm, Saturday & Sunday 10am-4pm. Entry free.

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24th November-23rd December, The Polar Express Train Ride, Telford Steam Railway, Telford All aboard for an immersive Christmas experience inspired by the popular 2004 film, Polar Express – ‘Seeing is believing!’ Various times and dates, tickets from £61.99 to £75.99 (for two people).

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1st & 2nd December, Wem Winter Festival, Wem Town Hall Get in the festive spirit and shop local at the Winter Festival Craft and Food Market and Christmas light switch-on. Enjoy seasonal food and drink too.

Friday from 5pm, Saturday from 9am.

Free admission.

•

1st-3rd December, Oswestry Town Market Christmas Events Choose from a huge, live event, a Christmas parade or a charity Santa run to kick off the start of the festive season in Oswestry town centre. Programme at www.oswestrymarket.co.uk

A date with Russell

Join multi-award-winning tenor Russell Watson on 16th or 18th November for a special show at Shrewsbury Abbey, accompanied by worldrenowned pianist Mike Moran. Described by the New York Times as a performer “who sings like Pavarotti and entertains the audience like Sinatra”, Watson has received critical acclaim for each of his 10 studio albums. His debut The Voice topped the UK charts for a record 52 weeks, holding the

Much to-do about Christmas

Enjoy a festive day at Much Wenlock’s Christmas Fayre on 2nd December, perusing unique gifts and merchandise from around 150 stalls as well as the town’s independent shops.

There will be a variety of performances and entertainment throughout the day, ending with a candlelit procession down the High Street and traditional carol singing in the Square.

Open 10am4.30pm.

Entry is free. www.wenlock christmas fayre.org.uk.

Tea on the tracks Savour Christmas treats, fine tea, and mulled wine or spiced apple as you travel on the Severn Valley Railway, taking in the landscape and twinkling lights. The Festive Afternoon Menu on 19th-21st December features traditional scones, turkey sandwiches and meringue-topped mince pie. Departs Kidderminster 12.30pm, £75. www.svr.co.uk

34 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

DID YOU KNOW? Russell will be joined on Saturday 18th by special guest, soprano Nancy May

top spot in the US at the same time, making him the first British male to boast a simultaneous transatlantic no 1.

His second album Encore went on to sell almost two million copies. Enjoy a show of classics old and new, and an audience Q&A session. 7.30pm.

Tickets from £50.05. www.shrewsburyabbey.com

Seasonal sparkle

MOOand BOOM is a fun independent retailer with sustainability and ethics at its core. Join a Baubles and Bubbles workshop on 25th November, painting up to six ceramic baubles in your own theme and colour scheme to take home and hang on the Christmas tree. All materials are included, along with a glass of bubbles on arrival! 10.30am-12.30pm, £32. www.mooandboom.com

COOL CAMPING

Ludlow Racecourse is the location for the New Year rally of the Caravan and Motorhome Club’s West Wales Centre, taking place from 27th December–2nd January. Club rallies offer members the opportunity to enjoy their caravan or motorhome all year round, at some great sites, with the chance to get involved in social events and make new friends. The thriving medieval town of Ludlow is an excellent base for walking, cycling and exploring. The cost per unit is £150. www.ludlowracecourse.co.uk

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Romantic Weekends | Family Holidays | Business Trips

The Indoor Market is open every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and the outdoor market every Wednesday and Saturday. Plus we hold the Artisan Market on the last Friday of every month. The new weekly street market has gone from strength to strength attracting some fantastic bespoke stalls.

Luxury self-catering accommodation situated across South Wales, offering coast & country.

Look out for special events throughout the year CHRISTMAS SWITCH ON 16TH NOVEMBER –

From 4pm music on the Bailey Head, dance, lights and all things Christmassy

CHRISTMAS LIVE 1ST DECEMBER –

Huge event with =in the town centre, huge fairground, stalls, Santa’s grotto, live music, entertainment

Established in 2022, Well House Cottages have been designed to offer you a blend of modern luxury with charming character. If you’re getting away to explore or take a break from everyday life, our accommodation presents a sense of at home comfort in sought after locations. wellhousecottages.co.uk enquiries@wellhousecottages.co.uk

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CHRISTMAS PARADE 2ND DECEMBER –

Spectacular parade from 11am within the town centre

SANTA RUN 3RD DECEMBER –

Dress up as Santa and run for Charity

Go to www.oswestry-tc.gov.uk for further information about our town, market and events

Wrexham Symphony Orchestra NOVEMBER & DECEMBER

UR C H ITCH H W AY MARK ID R F

www.wrexhamorch.co.uk

Ochestra in Residence at Wrexham Glyndŵr University

ET

Beyond Borders

Sun 12 Nov 3:00pm William Aston Hall Running Time: Approx 1 hour 30 mins

is operating both indoors and at the front of Whitchurch Civic Centre, every Friday

7.30am – 12.30pm.

BIG DICKEY WHITTINGTON

WHITCHURCH CHRISTMAS LIGHTS EVENT Saturday, 25th November 2023 9:00am at the Whitchurch Civic Centre A fun day for the whole family.

The day includes a Christmas Market, live music and entertainment from local choirs, groups and bands. The famous lantern parade and lights switch on outside the Civic Centre.

Saturday, 4th November 2023 7:30pm Venue: Whitchurch Civic Centre Adult comedy pantomime being held at the Whitchurch Civic Centre. Not for the easily offended. Strictly over 18s.

If you are up for a laugh and a little escapism, please come along and join in the fun. A donation from the show will go to the Bradbury Care Centre.

Christmas with WSO

Sun 10 Dec 3:00pm William Aston Hall Running Time: Approx 1 hour 30 mins

A programme featuring works with Our annual Christmas concert brings all special meaning for remembrance of the the family together with readings, carols victims of war and oppression. Soviet and the best festive music.

Russian composer Shostakovich’s This concert sells incredibly quickly, early Symphony no. 10 was written in 1953 booking is recommended. and its second movement is, it is said, Conductor – Mark Lansom intended as a musical portrait of Stalin.

Elgar’s Cello Concerto is a cornerstone Price: of the solo cello repertoire and was rated From £10, Under 18s & Students: £2 as the best classical piece written in the 20th century.

Conductor - Bedwyn Lloyd Phillips Soloist - Urszula Krukowska-Byzdra Programme includes: Elgar | Cello Concerto Shostakovich | Symphony no. 10 Bohuslav Martinů | Memorial to Lidice Registered Charity No 519295

036_SHIRE_ND2023.indd 1

27/10/2023 12:32

WHAT’S ON SHROPSHIRE

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF DECEMBER

•

Bargain hunting

Jos Events hosts Oswestry Antique & Collectors Fair on 18th & 19th November at Oswestry Showground, on the A495. With an array of indoor and outdoor stalls spread across the 36-acre site and three large exhibition halls, experienced sellers from all over the country come together to offer a range of antiques, collectables, vintage and decorative

DID YOU KNOW? The best Bargain Hunt ‘find’ was an ancient Chinese teapot, valued at £390,000!

items and more! Keen bargain hunters might spot some familiar faces from BBC’s Bargain Hunt, due to be filming on site.

Gates open 8am Saturday, 9am Sunday.

Entry £3.50, cash only. www.jos-events.co.uk

1st-23rd December, Santa Follies Safari, Hawkstone Park, Shrewsbury After a welcoming festive drink, make your way across the park in a 4x4 Land Rover to Santa’s caves before reaching his magical grotto.

Every child is greeted by Santa and will receive a gift. Various times and dates available. Tickets from £139 per car.

Tickle your tastebuds

A supper club with a difference – a taste of Champagne! On 2nd November, Tanners Wine of Shrewsbury will take you on a gastronomic tour of the Champagne region, tasting a variety of wines from small growers as well as recognised producers.

Enjoy welcome canapés with Tanners Extra Reserve Champagne, followed by a four-course meal prepared by Ed Potter of Oak Apple Catering, with Champagne throughout. The evening begins at 7pm, and tickets are £150. www.originalshrewsbury.co.uk

Most wonderful time…

Don’t miss the annual Christmas Tree Festival at St Chad’s in Shrewsbury, running from 10th December-3rd January.

The church will be filled with beautifully decorated trees and there will be a daily programme of Christmas music and dance, including school choirs and arts groups. Joanna Hepper from St Chad’s said: “The festival is a special experience. The trees set in the wonderful ambience of St Chad’s are a real Christmastide treat for all the family.” Free entry. Programme at www.stchadschurchshrewsbury.com

The best bar none

For a unique spin on your festive shopping, visit the Christmas market at Shrewsbury Prison. Back for its third year on 9th & 10th December, more than 65 independent stalls will be offering clothing, gifts and decorations in the buildings at the rear, and there’ll be mulled wine and mince pies in the exercise yard to keep you warm!

‘The Dana’ dates from 1793 and was named after Rev Edmund Dana.

Open 10am-4pm.

Entry free, but please register at www.shrewsbury prison.com

SCALING UP

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2nd December, Introduction to Lino Printing, Willow Gallery, Oswestry Suitable for beginners or those wanting to refresh their skills, participants will use their own design or image to produce one coloured lino print whilst learning about tools and inks. 10am-4pm. £70.

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The world’s largest fine-scale model show celebrates its 60th year at Telford International Centre on 11th & 12th November.

Scale Model World is organised and run by the International Plastic Modellers’ Society (UK), and typically includes club and special interest displays, hundreds of trade stands, talks and demos as well as competitions for IPMS members. Doors open 10am. Tickets cost £20, with two under-16s per paying adult admitted free. Pre-booking essential. www.tictelford.com

2nd December, Late Night at the Market Hall, Shrewsbury Family-friendly, festival vibes…

Enjoy a late night of boutique bars, eateries and shopping, with stalls offering a range of gifts, books and art. 5-10pm.

Free entry.

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2nd-24th December, Santa’s Grotto, Exotic Zoo, Telford Explore this award-winning small zoo and visit Santa in his grotto to receive a Christmas gift. Various dates and times.

Tickets £8 (child £15, undertwos £10).

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 37

SHROPSHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF DECEMBER

•2nd-24th December, The Santa Experience, Park Hall

Countryside Experience, Oswestry Combine a day out at the farm meeting the animals and enjoying a tractor ride with seeing Santa Claus.

Make memories with all the family, with a Christmas show for added pantomime fun.

10am-4pm. Adult ticket £12.95, child £20.95 (under-2s £11.95, children’s tickets include gift).

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4th, 11th & 18th December, Christmas Craft Wreath Making, Lilleshall House Let the resident craft experts guide you in making your own Christmas wreath or table centrepiece. Keep warm while you work with a hot drink and mince pie. £25 (materials provided). Details at www. lilleshallhouse.co.uk

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9th December, Shifnal Male Voice Choir, Ludlow Farmshop Back by popular demand, the Shifnal Male Voice Choir, formed in 1957, will be returning to perform a range of Christmas carols at Ludlow Farmshop. Performances at 11.30am and 2pm. Free.

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15th & 17th December, The Stones, Theatre on the Steps, Bridgnorth An authentic, accurate tribute documenting the rise of the band during the 60s & 70s, using projection and multiple costume changes.

7pm. Tickets £20.

Welcome to Elventown

New to Apley Farm for 2023, the Apley Elves will be offering visitors a warm welcome to Elventown, which will be filled with Christmas music, fairy lights and hot chocolate from 8th-24th December! Once through ‘Elf and Safety’, enjoy story and song time, gingerbread decorating at Bell’s Bakery, making reindeer food at Rudolph’s Stables and visiting Prancer’s Playground.

When the bell rings it’s time to follow the magical twinkling pathway through the trees to

meet Santa in his grotto and receive a Christmas gift. Each paying child ticket also includes a return play-pass for Apley Playbarn, to be used in springtime.

Tickets are £16.95 per child (includes gift), with one free accompanying adult for each child ticket.

Professional photographs capturing the experience will be available for purchase at an additional cost. www.apleyestate.co.uk

A little bird told us…

Learn to observe and record nature through the changing seasons at a free Nature Writing Workshop run by Little Bird Said. Using The Hive’s garden in Shrewsbury as inspiration, the sessions on 9th November, 23rd November & 7th December will blend botanical knowledge and writing techniques to explore a variety of fruit and flora. Workshops run from 10-11.30am. Reserve a place online (£1 booking fee). events.hiveonline.org.uk// Little Bird Said offers the opportunity to meet in a community setting to engage with nature and produce descriptive writing. www.littlebirdsaid.org

VEGAS TO TELFORD

Swing into the Christmas season at The Place Theatre on 29th November with a tribute to The Rat Pack’s Christmas in Vegas concert. Dedicated to the music of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jnr and featuring festive hits such as ‘Let it Snow’ and ‘White Christmas’, this no. 1 tribute (as voted by The Agents Association of Great Britain for three successive years) is a yuletide treat for all the family. Starts 7.30pm, tickets £21. www.telfordtheatre.com

FEE-FI-FO-FUN

Running from 29th November-7th January this year’s pantomime at Theatre Severn is a GIANT of a production! Jack and the Beanstalk stars Shropshire’s legendary dame and director Brad Fitt and is written

by Telford-born Paul Hendy, with stunning sets, special effects, laughs and of course plenty of audience participation. So don’t miss out on the fee-fi-fo-fun! Performance times vary, and ticket prices range from £17-£29. Group discounts available. www.theatresevern.co.uk

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31st December, New Year’s Eve Party Night, The Great Weston, Oswestry Welcome in the New Year at this vibrant venue with an evening of food, live music from 5Live, fizz and fireworks! Doors 6pm. Tickets £37.50 (children £15).

38 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

A cracking night out!

A trip to see The Royal Ballet’s The Nutcracker at Wellington Orbit Cinema makes for an unforgettable Christmas treat.

Marvel at Tchaikovsky’s score for this fantasy set on Christmas Eve. When Clara receives an enchanted nutcracker doll as a present, it leads her to a magical world in which they battle the Mouse King and Clara visits the Sugar Plum Fairy. Peter Wright's production stays true to the festive spirit of the ballet, combining the thrill of the fairy tale with spectacular dancing. Shows at 7.15pm on 12th December and 2pm on 17th December. Tickets £16.50 (child £14.50, concessions available). www.wellingtonorbit.co.uk

FESTIVAL DRAYTON CENTRE, MARKET DRAYTON

THU 30 TH NOV - SUN 3 RD DEC

festivaldraytoncentre.com | 01630 654444

Christmas at

Christmas Fayre

Visit Derwen Marketplace for a feast of delights, including: • A wonderful array of bespoke and locally produced gifts • Derwen College-made jams and chutneys • Derwen College-made Christmas cakes (pre-order) • Bespoke, hand-picked hampers • Beautiful Christmas cards that support our charity, only £3.50 for a pack of 10.

• Fresh Christmas trees starting at £27.

• Christmas lunch in our our charming Orangery Restaurant • And don’t forget our award-winning charity shop – The Vintage Advantage Open 7 days a week. Free parking.

Enter via Whittington Road Derwen College is a registered or Twmpath Lane charity supporting students with special educational needs and Gobowen, SY11 3JA disabilities (SEND). www.derwen.ac.uk 01691 661234

039_SHIRE_ND2023.indd 1

Join us for a festive shopping experience 4pm–8pm, Friday 24 November 1 10am–4pm, Saturday 25 November 10am–4pm, Sunday 26 November

Book your slot to see Santa & Mrs Christmas!

Santa & Mrs Christmas will be making their way to Derwen College this November! Book your slot for “An Audience with Santa” now!

Call Mrs Santa on 01691 661234 or visit our website www.derwen.ac.uk

27/10/2023 12:30

Gold and Silver Roadshow

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

FOR 1 DAY ON WEDNESDAY

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

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

FOR 1 DAY ON SATURDAY

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15th NOVEMBER 2023

18TH NOVEMBER 2023

21ST NOVEMBER 2023

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MERCURE TELFORD CENTRE HOTEL FORGE GATE, TELFORD CENTRE, TELFORD TF3 4NA from 10.30am to 4.00pm

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AT THE MERCURE ABBOTS WELL HOTEL, WHITCHURCH ROAD, CHRISTLETON CHESTER CH3 5QL from 10.30am to 4.00pm

28th DECEMBER

13th JANUARY 2024

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Silver Trays, Silver Teapots, Silver Cigarette Cases, Silver Knives & Forks and Trophies

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www.goldandsilverroadshow.co.uk 26/10/2023 17:55

The home of heritage Shropshire’s county town, Shrewsbury is a settlement with a rich history as well as a bustling, booming future DID YOU KNOW? Shrewsbury as a settlement was founded around 800AD

A rich history

A

s the main connabation in a generally rural area, Shrewsbury has an important role to play for the surrounding Shropshire and Wales border towns and villages. It is well known to many, but still provides an argument too – namely about its, well, name. The debate on whether to pronounce it ‘shrow’ to rhyme with show or ‘shrew’ to rhyme with shoe is an age old one and every resident will give you their own opinion. Many say it depends which side of the river you’re on, whereas others believe it comes down to how ‘posh’ you are, or want to sound. Either way, if there’s one thing that the locals tend to agree on it’s that this town is a great place to live with many staying in the area for generations.

Proud past

Shrewsbury’s earliest recorded history documents it having been founded in the Early Middle Ages, around 800 AD. It is believed that Anglo-Saxon Shrewsbury was probably a small settlement comprising a ditch and rampart, completed with a wooden stockade and that by the beginning of the

900s, Shrewsbury was home to a mint. The peaceful beginnings of Shrewsbury didn’t last long though and the Welsh besieged it in 1069, only to be repelled by William the Conqueror. Roger de Montgomery was given the town as a gift from William, and built Shrewsbury Castle in 1074and founded Shrewsbury Abbey as a Benedictine monastery in 1083.

In the late Middle Ages the town was at its height of commercial importance due to a thriving wool trade that flourished on the River Severn trading route. The town was the early capital of the Kingdom of Powys and site of the famous 1403 Battle of Shrewsbury between King Henry IV and Henry Hotspur Percy, with the King emerging victorious, an event made famous

by William Shakespeare in Henry IV, Part 1.

to serious flooding in the past and the area has suffered considerable damage over the years.

Today’s town boasts many specialist shops, traditional pubs and local restaurants in the hidden corners, squares and lanes of Shrewsbury, as well as the regular market.

There are churches a-plenty to visit as well as an abbey and a museum with a good range of exhibits and integrated art gallery.

Home to an annual folk festival and flower show – both of which draw crowds of thousands – the town is also blessed with some excellent schools and is particularly popular with families.

Fame and mixed fortunes

Shrewsbury’s most famous and wellcelebrated son was the naturalist Charles Darwin was born and brought up in the town before going on to wow the world with his theories and research into animal and human evolution. Many streets and institutions are still named in his honour to this day.

During the industrial revolution Shrewsbury enjoyed some prominence thanks to the Ditherington Flax Mill, the world’s first iron-framed building, and the ground-breaking canal network that helped its industries reach the wider country as well as abroad. This proud past is still evident in the town’s structures, such as the nine bridges that circle the centre as Shrewsbury has the looping River Severn on nearly all sides.

Unfortunately this waterside location has led

Shrewsbury Flower Show EVENTS IN SHREWSBURY Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery The Music Hall, Market St, Shrewsbury SY1 1LG www.shrewsburymuseum.org.uk 01743 258885 Shrewsbury Folk Festival Gravel Hill Ln, Shrewsbury SY1 2PF www.shrewsburyfolkfestival.co.uk Shrewsbury Flower Show Quarry Lodge, Shrewsbury SY1 1RN www.shrewsburyflowershow.org.uk

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 41

© Adele Barry

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

DEVA FEST, CHOLMONDELEY CASTLE Of all the events we’ve been to this year, Deva Fest takes the crown.

Previously nestled in the charm of Chester Lakes, this time it chose the majestic Cholmondeley Castle as its backdrop. The music, food and lifestyle festival turned out to be the ultimate family rendezvous, catering to everyone from little ones to teens, and even dogs were welcome to join in the fun.

The cherry on top? The free fairground rides. We’d usually shell out a small fortune for rides elsewhere, but at Deva Fest unlimited rides are part of the ticket, a genius move that kept the kids enthralled “Unlimited while we enjoyed the music. Swings for the tots, rides are bumper cars for the adventurous and heartpart of pounding rides for the older ones – the selection the ticket. was spot-on.

Genius!”

And that’s not all that is covered by the ticket price. Circus workshops, dino encounters, Kids’ Kingdom, even the parking was free.

The weather gods smiled on us as we enjoyed Deva Fest on Friday and Saturday. With four music stages – the main tent, a dance stage, soul and funk, and a folk tent – there was a rhythm for everyone.

Music played from noon till 11pm each day, making it impossible not to get into the groove. Friday evening saw us swaying to the tunes of Morcheeba and being awestruck by Symphonic Ibiza. Saturday, we watched performances by 5ive, Fleur East and Will Young, followed by a dance stage spectacle with K-Klass and N-Trance that had us on our feet and partying all night.

JIMMY CRICKET, FESTIVAL DRAYTON CENTRE, MARKET DRAYTON Jimmy Cricket’s prime-time TV series is long gone, but the veteran comic showed he could still collapse an audience into fits of giggles. His seemingly endless stream of puns, his ever-rich There was a poem about wordplay and his surreal take on courtship (“When she rolled her everyday situations more than eyes at me, I picked them up and earned him a place alongside the Festival Centre’s rolled them back”), quips about family (“She asked run of younger, edgier comedians.

“Can still me if I’d like to change baby and I said, no Much of his collapse an the thanks, I’m happy with clowning about, his audience the one I’ve got”) and funny walks and into fits of a bizarre back-to-front silly hats could have tennis game. Amidst slotted into a good giggles” an impressive juggling panto. His bits of routine he gave a stream magic and tinof hilarious impressions, from whistle tunes are straight out of Adam and Eve to Mick Jagger.

Edwardian music hall. There was The line for copies of Jimmy’s no lewdness, politics or making autobiography buzzed with good fun of folk in the front row. His cheer long after the stage had is old-fashioned family fun, and emptied. JH ★★★★ the audience loved it.

42 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

There were plenty of street food stalls. Laughter echoed from the comedy tent, grown-ups indulged in gin-tasting, and water sports added a splash of excitement. Let’s not forget the immaculate posh loos that brought the ultimate touch of luxury!

Deva Fest was a masterpiece of organisation set against a picturesque backdrop. It wasn’t just an event – it was an experience we won’t forget. I’d give six stars if I could. AB ★★★★★

THE GLORIOUS GLOWING LANTERN PARADE, BEWILDERWOOD, CHESHIRE Why wait until Christmas to enjoy a light trail when you can experience it in the magic of autumn? BeWILDerwood’s renowned Lantern Parade made a triumphant return, unveiling show was included an all-new, captivating story. in the ticket.

As dusk settled, we ventured into the Promoted “Like woods and it felt like as spooky but entering not scary, the entering a whole new a new experience catered to all realm. Passing through a bewitching gateway, realm” ages, ensuring even the youngest could revel in the we found ourselves at a charming teepee tent, where magic. The Christmas trail runs 2nd-23rd December. Prepare to the little ones could craft their be spellbound! AB ★★★★★ own lanterns to carry with them.

The playground had been transformed into a spectacle of If you have a show in the Shire light, the trail unfolding along area, we can send a reviewer – wooden walkways, each twist and you can appear on these revealing captivating displays. pages too! Just email us at Playful puppets amused the editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk children, and a mini theatre

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Have a caring Shire-ing Christmas!

We’re all giddy for festive fun, but as you get organised for the most magical time of the year, take the chance to celebrate and support our local area and its wonderful resources

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s we hurtle towards another festive season we know there is a lot to do and many people find it stressful to organise their Christmas celebrations. Whether you’re gathering the clan from across the country or enjoying a small and exclusive affair in peace, no doubt the planning is already underway in earnest.

In this age of convenience it is easy to rely on websites to pick, pack, wrap and deliver everything we could dream of, from and to every corner of the world, but there is another way – and here at Shire we want to celebrate it.

Shopping local is more than a cute cliché. It is an approach that can boost a local economy – your local economy – which

“Shopping local is more than just a cute cliché. It is an approach that can boost a local economy – YOUR local economy.”

Little things matter: even the smallest purchase makes a difference

is essentially good news for all of us. Not only that, it is far better for the environment and will probably leave you feeling better about your approach too. So we’re taking a look at the benefits of keeping it local this Christmas and celebrating some of the organisations and companies that will help you arrange everything you need for your festivities in a caring, Shire-ing way.

Your town needs you

You’ll be surprised what’s on offer

44 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

When consumers choose to spend their money at local shops, restaurants and boutiques, they contribute to the growth of the entrepreneurial ecosystem. These businesses are more likely to source their products and services locally, further stimulating regional economic activity. Local businesses also tend to create more jobs within the community. By supporting them, residents can play an active role in reducing unemployment and promoting self-reliance, bolstering economic resilience.

Vibrant town and village centres are the lifeblood of communities. When residents choose to shop locally, they help

All you can eat…

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a spot of over-indulgence! Your favourite local producers have plenty of treats in store, so check out our recommendations before you hit the supermarket…

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Spend time in your local high street

“A thriving town centre encourages people to spend more time outdoors, socialising and exploring their surroundings” maintain bustling, pedestrian-friendly towns. Lively main streets, adorned with shops, cafés and markets, become magnets for residents and visitors alike. A thriving town centre encourages people to spend more time outdoors, socialising and exploring their surroundings. And the more appealing and dynamic a town centre, the more likely it is to attract tourists, who contribute significantly to the local economy.

Spirit of resilience

Not only that, shopping locally fosters a sense of connectedness. When people know the faces behind the businesses they frequent, they establish personal connections and trust. This creates a virtuous cycle: residents become more invested in the success of local businesses, which in turn invest in the improvement of the community. Local businesses often support local causes, schools and charities, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Local economies with a strong base of small businesses also tend to be more resilient in times of uncertainty.

Their diversity can help cushion the impact of economic downturns so that communities continue to thrive.

With these factors in mind it is clear that shopping locally is more than just a personal choice – it is a powerful driver of economic growth, community resilience and overall well-being. But of course, it is only right for you if you can find everything you need in the local area… Luckily for Shire readers, we reckon you probably can, as the following pages show.

Rhug Estate Organic Farm Rhug Estate Organic Farm has been awarded the Royal Warrant and supplies many of the finest hotels and restaurants around the world. All animals are bred and reared to the highest standards of welfare and fed on feed grown on the farm, which all contributes to the outstanding quality Fit for a king of the meat. A team of highly skilled butchers cut and pack a wide range of delicious meats: beef, lamb, pork, chicken, turkey and goose, all of which are available to order straight to your door, to take pride of place on your Christmas dinner table.

Over the past few years, Rhug Estate has transformed into a diverse, award-winning business, recognised for embracing sustainable organic farming, green energy, retail and wholesale.

The 12,500-acre estate stretches from Gwyddelwern south to Cynwyd, and from Carrog in the east across to Maerdy, and benefits from rich organic pastures where the animals are free to graze with almost no interruption. www.rhug.co.uk

Porter’s Deli Who doesn’t love food?

Even the people in your life who are difficult to buy for love food, and the team at Porter’s delicatessen in Llangollen love putting hampers together. Perfect! They can tailor the hampers to your requirements and budget so your gift is personalised and unique.

Recent examples include For the foodie in your life a salt-themed, glutenfree hamper for an eighth wedding anniversary, a miniature gin tasting hamper, a Welsh produce hamper, and a chef ’s

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November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 45

hamper with paella spices, rice, oils, vinegars and lots of mouthwatering ingredients. Choose from a range of trays and baskets, or if you have a basket you’d like to re-use they can fill it with delicious products and make it look beautiful. Packaging is all compostable or recyclable.

They also offer a delivery service.Find Porter’s Deli on Instagram @portersdeli_llangollen or call 01978 862 990. www.portersdeli.co.uk

Aber Falls Whisky Distillery Aber Falls Whisky Distillery is one of only four in Wales, and the first in North Wales since the early 1900s. Located a stone’s throw from Rhaeadr Fawr itself, the distillery uses specially crafted Premium whisky from North Wales ingredients from the surrounding area and refines the whisky in traditional copper stills. The copper removes any sulphur, with the surface area of the tall still ensuring maximum contact.

Aber Falls has been embraced by the community and is working to establish partnerships with other Welsh businesses, with the goal of improving sustainability and driving the local economy. The website offers a range of fabulous whiskys as well as some delicious gins, and the vouchers for tours and gin workshops make great gifts. www.aberfallsdistillery.com

Caffi Mary Jones Set on the edge of Llyn Tegid (Lake Bala), just one mile from Bala high street, Caffi Mary Jones is open Wednesday– Sunday from 10am-4pm, .

The cosy cafe offers a selection of hot drinks, Homemade cakes and friendly service tasty homemade cakes and light lunches from local suppliers, all with an incredible view of the lake. Dog-friendly, with ample free parking and a children’s play area, a warm welcome awaits all. The cafe is also available to pre-booked groups, and is flexible to your requirements. For details call 01678 521 877, and follow Caffi Mary Jones on social media to keep up to date with all special events, including school holidays and Christmas festivities.

Byd Mary Jones World, Llanycil, Bala LL23 7YF. www.bydmaryjonesworld.org.uk 46 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

Value added vouchers For those hard-to-buy-for people, gift cards are always a popular option. But you can still support local businesses across the patch by choosing from Shire’s own voucher selection box…

The ultimate treat for tree-lovers Picking out and decorating a Christmas tree for the home is a big part of many people’s celebrations, but via 9Trees you can gift the chance to grow a tree instead. This eco-friendly option is great for nature lovers as the 9Trees team will plant a tree on their behalf and undertake to manage it for 50 years.

Seven of the 9Trees sites are in Wales In this way, they are creating nature-rich, native broadleaf woodlands across the UK, to bring back biodiversity, tackle climate change and create meaningful jobs in the countryside sector. That’s a gift that lasts.

“We currently have trees in Powys, Anglesey, Derbyshire and Dorset. And we hope to have trees all over the UK, from Land’s End to John O’Groats,” says the team. Gifts are available in multiples of £17, the price for planting a single tree. Each gift pack includes a digital gift certificate and booklet, and a wooden tree decoration – handcrafted and sustainably sourced. www.9trees.org

More to Xplore!

Always something new to discover

Xplore! is the home of science in North Wales.

This exciting attraction is packed to the rafters with science, exploration and fun.

At Xplore! the team specialises in inspiring minds both young and old. A visit to Xplore! allows exploration of all aspects of science, technology, engineering

and maths. With interactive exhibits, live science shows and daring demonstrations it’s no surprise that visitors choose to come back time and again. There’s so much to see and do, and a host of special events and workshops running regularly means there’s always something new to discover.

Xplore! is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday and every day during Wrexham school holidays. An annual pass makes an ideal family present for youngsters with inquisitive minds, offering a whole year of unlimited fun for just £27.50 – that’s £2.30 a month. Annual pass holders enjoy a 10 percent discount in the shop, discounted guest admission and access to special events.

excitement, open seas, spectacular wildlife and a tale or two to keep you entertained. Our skippers are fun and knowledgeable and ensure a fantastic trip. For the ultimate treat you could gift a family voucher for a personal adventure on a private charter trip.

Trips range from £22 and vouchers can be purchased at any value. See the magic of Anglesey from the water on a RibRide! www.ridride.co.uk

A dream come true

www.xplorescience.co.uk

Friends or family members who like to try new things – Animal magic or have an untapped creative side they For anyone dream of discovering s e s u mad about – will love the range g n rki woodwo s ’ i n animals, of adult courses on e h e c i r h ‘G r, w ed timbe we have offer at Wernog Wood, n o s d e a e k s or un can be w d the ultimate just outside Ruthin. n a r e t sof ools t d n a gift voucher A voucher for a course h with suggestion. at Wernog Wood offers West far more than just a Unlock a hidden passion creative experience: with Midland Safari Park is an award-winning visitor the option to stay in quirky accommodation and meet new attraction, located in people, it’s a change of pace and an escape from the everyday.

Worcestershire in the Guided by tutors who are masters of their crafts, each course heart of England. It is is suitable for complete beginners or those hoping to develop Plenty of fun with the meerkats home to a variety of alltheir skills. There is something for everyone, from greenwood chairmaking, cleft oak gate making, blacksmithing or stone weather attractions, including four miles of drive-through safari, carving, to traditional stained glass, automata, a variety of the largest animatronic dinosaur exhibit in the UK and a theme textiles, printmaking and drawing, pit-fired ceramics, millinery, park. Around 140 different species call the Park home, including cheetahs, lions, elephants, giraffes and rhinos. In summer 2021, jewellery making, leatherwork, and more. Some courses are a the Park introduced Safari Lodges – luxury accommodation for day long, others up to a week, and all include lunch. Check out guests to stay overnight, with one-of-a-kind views across animal the gift voucher options online and get in touch with the team. enclosures and opportunities to see the animals up close. www.wernogwood.co.uk With its combination of amazing animals, exciting rides and awesome exhibits, West Midland Safari Park is the ultimate family day out. Gift vouchers are available for purchase on the website – or why not book someone you love a stay at one of the new luxury Lodges for an unforgettable Safari experience.

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www.wmsp.co.uk

Make a splash RibRide offers Adventure RIB Tours for all ages and budgets from its Anglesey base – the perfect gift this Christmas. Take a fun and exhilarating ride beneath two of Wales’ iconic bridges and through the world-famous Swellies, or out to Puffin Island – or book a longer trip to see the spectacular sights along the island’s Cross the ‘Swellies’ in a RIB east coast to Moelfre and Point Lynas. If you’re lucky you may catch a sight of the famous Rizzo dolphins who love to play. A trip to Newborough and Llanddwyn Island reveals secret coves and hidden beaches.

RibRide is the No.1 bait tour operator in Anglesey and offers

Farm favourit e W

hen it comes to choosing the tree, why not pop into Backford Christmas Tree Farm just north of Chester, where you can pick your own direct from the grower? They have Nordman fir, Fraser fir, Lodge Pole pine and Norway spruce on site and Noble fir on request. All of the trees are needle-retaining and they also have pot-grown trees, as well as water-holding stands, containers and tree skirts. There’s a lovely selection of festive foliage, handmade wreaths and table centrepieces too. Nearer Christmas they’re open daily from 8am-8pm, or you can place your order online and have it delivered for a small charge. www.backfordchristmastreefarm.co.uk

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 47

Something a bit different If you like to find gifts that are out of the ordinary, this round-up of local quirky craft companies could give you some great ideas Heart-warming It might be cold outside, but with a Kadai firebowl there’s no excuse not to make the most of your garden all year round.

Wilstone House retail store in Leebotwood is a proud Kadai stockist and the team can help you explore the full range of firebowls and cookware, fireside A firebowl is a longlasting gift and essential accessories.

Wilstone House is a unique treasure trove located in the beautiful Shropshire Hills, with an amazing collection of antique furniture, ornaments, gorgeous textiles and unique gifts in an inspirational setting. Be transported to India as you explore this wondrous shop filled with exclusive, one-off pieces. www.wilstone.com

Big softies Home to an adorable herd of alpacas, Mulberry Alpacas produces quality alpaca fibre in a variety of colours, processing only the finest fleeces into yarn and knitwear.

Each of the alpacas has a different personality and temperament, but a gentle Socks direct from the source… disposition is important when raising them together, says herd manager Harry. There is a special thrill to see garments produced from the fleece of a particular animal and the caring team at Mulberry Alpacas always thanks the herd for producing such warm socks, duvets, yarn and knitwear. Much of the yarn carries a label with the name of the alpaca it came from. You can’t get a more personalised gift than that! The shop is open 10am-4pm on Saturdays. www.mulberryalpacas.co.uk

A fine art

The shop at Oriel Davies

Choosing the perfect gift is an art in itself. If you know someone who appreciates art, then a gallery gift shop is always a good place to start.

We recommend a visit to Oriel Davies gallery shop in Newtown, Powys, which carries a huge range of arts and crafts and proudly promotes independent

48 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

makers from Wales and the Welsh Marches. What’s more, every purchase helps to support the gallery’s programme of exhibitions, courses and workshops. The shop also stocks art materials and books as well as hand-crafted creations and bespoke pieces of jewellery.

The online store gives a flavour of what is on offer, but an in-person visit will reveal so much more – and the opportunity to sample the amazing coffee shop too. www.orieldavies.org

Seasonal colour Make Christmas even more special this year by visiting The Woodworks Garden Centre and Café in Mold. The gift shop is stocked with seasonal collections including homeware, giftware, jewellery, accessories and more. You’re sure to find the perfect present, for even the The Powder collecton trickiest recipient.

The winter collection from Powder features beautiful, printed floral robes, scarves, hats and children’s mittens, the range flawlessly combining glamour and fun.

The Mill at The Woodworks is filled with gifts ideal for any garden enthusiast. Showcased is the largest display of Zest Outdoor Living timber products, including benches, seating, dining sets, arches, arbours and a variety of grow your own products and planters – there’s a Zest product for every garden.

Premium Nordman Christmas trees will be available at The Woodworks from 24th November, along with a wide range of distinctive pre-made wreaths.

The Woodworks Garden Centre and Café is on Bromfield Industrial Estate, Wrexham Road, Mold. www.woodworksgc.com

Now put your feet up…

After all that Christmas shopping you deserve to put your feet up in style… and where better than on one of Ewemoo’s gorgeous footrests? These cute and characterful creatures are lovingly made with top quality materials, and feature cotton twist bodies, oak feet and a choice of plain or patterned ears, for a quirky accessory that will brighten up your home.

With the collection including sheep, oes o now d cows, pigs and bulls in every colour Ewemo ool with imaginable, you’re spoilt for og footst h e g . d e h a overing choice. You may even end up henille c c ly b b o b ! investing in your own Too cute fluffy little herd!

Ewemoo also produces bags and a range of other accessories, but we think these fun fellas are the main event.

You could even buy one as a gift for a lucky loved one – if you can bear to part with it! www.ewemoo.co.uk

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Ewemoo Find us at :

Brecon Craft Fair every 3rd Sat of the month Winter Fair 27th & 28th Nov Builth Wells

Cardiff Christmas Craft Market Nov 9th - Dec 10th

www.ewemoo.co.uk

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Tel: 07778102238

27/10/2023 12:43

JACKSON’S Boutique Garden Centre tre

OUR CHRISTMAS STORE IS OPEN THE POTTING SHED CAFE

IF YOU LIKE CHRISTMAS YOU’LL LOVE JACKSONS BEAUTIFUL DISPLAYS FROM TRADITIONAL TO CONTEMPORARY TREES • DECORATIONS • LIGHTING INSPIRATION!

FASHIONS • ACCESSORIES • GIFTS

Jacksonsgardencentre • www.jacksonsgardencentre.com • T: 01745 570680 Jacksons Garden Centre, Trelawnyd, Nr Dyserth, North Wales LL18 6EB

Give a gift that keeps on growing 9Trees plant a tree for your loved one and care for it for 50 years. With this gift, you are creating nature-rich broadleaf woodland in the UK, bringing back biodiversity, tackling climate change and helping to create local jobs in the countryside sector.

YOUR GIFT INCLUDES: • One tree - planted and cared for in a local woodland • • Digital gift certificate • • Wooden tree decoration •

www.9trees.org 050_SHIRE_ND2023.indd 1

@9Trees uk TWITTER

FACEBOOK-F

INSTAGRAM

27/10/2023 12:43

Fayre’s fair It’s not Christmas until you’ve visited a local festive market, bought a few crafty bits, sipped on steaming mulled wine and admired the twinkling lights. Here are a few of our favourite destinations for 2023 – but of course there are plenty more in our What’s On listings.

Much Wenlock Christmas Fayre 2023 will be held on Saturday 2nd December. With around 150 stalls plus the town’s fantastic selection of independent shops beautifully decked out for the festive season, you are guaranteed a fabulous Christmas shopping experience.

Throughout the day Join in with the carol singers there will be a variety of performances and entertainment all around the town. The day ends with an atmospheric candlelit procession down the high street and traditional carol singing on the square. www.wenlockchristmasfayre.org.uk Embrace the festive spirit and get your Christmas shopping wrapped up early with a visit to Derwen College Christmas Fayre on 24th-26th November.

The three-day seasonal extravaganza offers something for everyone, including a popular Christmas market, an audience with Santa and Santa will be at Derwen College an array of shopping and eating opportunities. There’s even the chance to meet two adorable miniature donkeys. A host of local artisan producers will be selling festive food, gifts, crafts and decorations. The market stalls will be offering unique hand-crafted present ideas alongside Derwen College’s own Garden Centre and Gift Shop merchandise. There’s also a bar and live music. Visit for late night shopping on Friday until 8pm, followed by Saturday opening (10am-4pm) and Sunday opening (10am-4pm). www.derwen.ac.uk Clwyd Special Riding Centre’s Christmas Fair is a muchloved local tradition, taking place on Saturday 2nd December, 10am-1pm. Set out in the Centre’s indoor arena at Llanfynydd, between Mold and Wrexham, there’s always a tempting variety of goodies for sale. Quality items donated to the charity provide affordable purchases, with regular stalls offering preloved toys, books, homeware, jewellery and more. A handful of commercial stalls provide the opportunity to purchase

a unique gift made locally. After a break to sample homemade cakes and savourie, visit Santa's Grotto before trotting along to see the wonderful horses and ponies, eagerly waiting in the stables.For £10, you can give someone the unique gift of Adopting a Pony for 12 months, but sadly you don’t get to Visit the horses in their stable take it home!

Every penny raised goes towards supporting the charity, which provides equine-assisted therapy activities for children and adults with additional needs, with provision for mental health and wellbeing. The charity is also holding a carol concert at St Chad’s Parish Church, Hanmer, Whitchurch on 12th December at 7pm, with Vox Vocavit choir. ww.clwydspecialridingcentre.co.uk

A greater good By choosing to support neighbourhood businesses and producers, we’re playing a pivotal role in reducing our carbon footprint and preserving the planet. Here are some key environmental advantages of shopping locally:

1. Reduced carbon emissions: one of the most significant environmental benefits is the reduction in emissions associated with transport. When consumers purchase goods from nearby sources, they don’t spend as much time travelling to out-of-town shopping centres by car and the products they buy don’t have to travel long distances to reach their destination. This means fewer trucks on the road, less fuel consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions. This helps combat climate change and air pollution.

2. Lower energy consumption: local businesses often have smaller-scale operations compared to large corporations.

As a result, they typically consume less energy for heating, cooling and lighting. Additionally, many local businesses prioritise energy efficiency and sustainable practices, further reducing their environmental impact.

3. Preservation of green spaces: when consumers support local agriculture and farmers’ markets, they help preserve green spaces and farmland within their communities.

This protects natural habitats, maintains biodiversity and prevents urban sprawl. Local food production often involves fewer pesticides and fertilisers too.

4. Reduced packaging waste: many locally produced products use minimal or eco-friendly packaging. This reduces the amount of plastic and other materials that end up in landfill or polluting the environment. Supporting local businesses can significantly reduce waste when products do not need to be wrapped and shipped.

5. Support for sustainable practices: local businesses often have a vested interest in their communities and are more likely to adopt sustainable practices. They may source products locally, use renewable energy or implement waste reduction and recycling initiatives. When consumers support these businesses, they incentivise sustainable practices throughout the community.

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 51

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Aber Falls, located on the foothills of Snowdonia in the village of Abergwyngregyn, offers a premium portfolio of the finest handcrafted whiskies, gins, and liqueurs, using sustainably sourced ingredients and Welsh-inspired botanicals.

A

ber Falls Distillery opened in 2017 and rose to fame with its production of gins and liqueurs, before unveiling its first single malt whisky in 2021. The team of local distillers take great pride in putting Wales on the map for whisky production, as the first whisky to be distilled in North Wales for over a century.

As we countdown to Christmas, why not treat a friend or family member to the perfect gift. The distillery is offering a bespoke Aber Falls Single Malt Whisky and Whisky Glass Gift Box, containing the awardwinning Single Malt Whisky and two Whisky Glasses.

Meanwhile, gin lovers can enjoy an Aber Falls Gin and Balloon Glass Gift Box, available in Original, Rhubarb and Ginger and Orange Marmalade flavours.

Gift boxes are available exclusively to purchase at the distillery and its website, starting from £35.

Visit: AberFallsDistillery.com

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Christmas Orders Now Being Taken

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Here at Mulberry Alpacas we have:

Jamie’s Butchers and Deli offer a wide range of delicious local produce!

Hot and Cold Sandwich Bar Call & Collect or Home Delivery Service Available Unit 1, St Mary’s Precinct, Church Street, Chirk, Wrexham, LL14 5HX T: 01691 772602 www.jamiewardsbutchers.co.uk

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Alpaca socks Lovely knitted items Penrose alpaca duvets and pillows Alpaca yarn and fleece Cuddly toys And a herd of friendly Alpacas So, come and visit soon!

Mulberry Grange, Red Hall Lane, Higher Penley, Wrexham, LL13 ONA

ONLINE SHOP

Tel: 07713 639 447 or 01978 710224 Email: mulberryalpacas@btconnect.com We’re 4 miles north of Ellesmere

OPEN NOW!

OPEN SATURDAYS AND BY APPOINTMENT | TELEPHONE ORDERS WELCOME

www.mulberryalpacas.co.uk

27/10/2023 12:52

Food&Drink

FOOD & DRINK

Pick of the

Producers Shire sneaks a cheeky peak at the independent ramen noodle stars in Cheshire that shot to fame by launching via an OnlyFans account!

I

n what can only be described as an excellent piece of marketing mischief, Send Noods was launched in Macclesfield on the adult photography site OnlyFans. With its tongue-in-cheek name, the Diners can personalise their own dish new venue was perfect for the infamous social media subscription trend and thought what better platform and shared what it described as “ramen based Ebi are tiny sweet way to start to make some food porn” on the site, inviting fans to follow it to find “We’ve prawns, Karaage is noise than on OnlyFans.” out more.

Japanese fried stayed true Send Noods is built around Now an established food establishment in its own chicken a small menu of delicious right, the foodies behind the noodles are looking – it’s food and authentic flavours, with forward to their first Christmas you want fresh seasonal ingredients at its core. Diners choose a base season in their Picturedome site, to eat” noodle, then personalise their order by selecting toppings after enjoying a warm welcome and flavours. With favourites such as peanut satay, sweet from Cheshire locals. chilli, classic Shoyu, crispy ebi prawns, Karaage chicken, vegetable Send Noods, spearheaded by gyoza and shredded duck, there is no end to possible combinations Asian food expert Vinny Yu and and every dish is prepared freshly to order on site.

Manchester hospitality legend Ross said: “Send Noods has been open for nine months now and Ross Mackenzie, opened its doors we have stayed true to our ethos – crafting a small menu of the in February and hopes to be the most delicious flavours and doing it to perfection. It’s food you first of many ramen shops across want to eat. We have had such a warm welcome to Macclesfield the North West. Vinny said: “We’d and have had plenty of fun along the way.” long been following the food porn Every dish is freshly made to order

FOODIE NEwS

Our regular round-up of everything happening in hospitality across the Shire patch…

Special status

Did yo u kn ow?

Officially great ices Great Taste is the world’s largest food and drink accreditation scheme based entirely on taste. Across 89 judging days in Dorset and London, more than 500 judges conducted blind taste tests on 14,195 entries, submitted from 109 different countries. With acknowledgements of everything from stem ginger cake to smoked kippers, the North took home 545 awards, including a coveted Great Taste 3-star for Dark Chocolate & Sea Salt Gelato by the Wirral’s own Churn & Chill, which earned the accolade “extraordinarily tasty food and drink”.

Gower Salt Marsh Lamb has joined the ranks of Champagne, Parma Ham and Melton Mowbray Pork Pies by This summer saw the launch of Pembrokeshire’s newest seafront being awarded protected food name destination, Teras Bar, offering guests an unrivalled all-seasons status by the European Commission. experience. Teras Bar is the ideal space to enjoy drinks and easy food, Earlier this year it was awarded while exploring beachside on the sands at Coppet further protection by the European Hall. Head chef Fred Clapperton has partnered Protected Designation of Origin with local suppliers to craft a tantalising menu status, one of three special European Direct from the Gower featuring locally sourced Pembrokeshire oysters, Protected Food Name (PFN) designations.

Welsh cured meats and delicious Welsh cheeses, Only legitimate lamb can now be sold with the European PFN and to be enjoyed with a Welsh sparkling wine, craft UKGI logo, guaranteeing it comes from lambs born and Welsh beers and ciders.

“The true reared on the North Gower coastline in Wales.

Fred says: “The launch of Teras Bar character gives us an opportunity to showcase Dan and Will Pritchard run the family farm on the picturesque Gower Peninsula. Dan said: “It shows that amazing local ingredients. Our oysters of the our products are of true origin and of a high standard. are served freshly shucked with a Atlantic We’re exceptionally proud of what we produce and it is pickled seaweed dressing and carry the Teras head chef Edge” fantastic that it is being recognised and celebrated.” true character of the Atlantic Edge.”

Fred Clapperton

Straight from the sea

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 53

FOOD & DRINK

A seasonal sup Fizz and wine tend to dominate festive menus, but there are plenty of yuletide options for beer drinkers too

C

hristmas is a time for merriment, gatherings with loved ones and indulging in festive treats. While traditional mulled wine and eggnog often take centre stage, don’t overlook the opportunities to enjoy a Christmas beer. Craft breweries and traditional ale producers offer a wide array of seasonal brews that promise to elevate your holiday celebrations.

Winter Warmers

These ales are characterised by their robust flavours, often featuring caramel and toffee notes, and warming spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.

Popular choices: Fuller’s Vintage Ale, Adnams Tally-Ho, Shepherd Neame Christmas Ale

Spiced Beers

Infused with a medley of festive spices such as cloves, ginger and allspice, spiced beers capture the essence of Christmas desserts.

Popular choices: BrewDog’s Hoppy Christmas, Samuel Smith’s Winter Welcome Ale, Harviestoun’s Bitter & Twisted

Christmas Stouts

Have a ho-ho-hoppy Christmas!

Rich, dark, and full-bodied, Christmas stouts often feature flavours of roasted coffee, chocolate, and sometimes even hints of dried fruit and liquorice.

Popular choices: Guinness Foreign Extra Stout, Samuel Smith’s Imperial Stout, Thornbridge’s Saint Petersburg

Leave the sledge at home…

Fruitcake Ales

These beers are inspired by the classic Christmas cake. Expect fruity, sometimes tart, occasionally spicy flavours.

Popular choices: Wychwood Brewery’s Bah Humbug, Ridgeway Brewing’s Santa’s Butt and their Lump of Coal

As es aute re eat harum ex

“Christmas stouts often feature fl avours of roasted coffee, chocolate, even liquorice”

Belgian Strong Ales

Popular all year round for their complexity, often featuring fruity esters, hints of spice and a warming alcohol presence, perfect for the season.

Popular choices: Delirium Noël, St Bernardus Christmas Ale, Brasserie Dubuisson’s Scaldis Noël

Special Editions

Many breweries release limited-edition Christmas beers, experimenting with unique ingredients or brewing techniques. Be on the lookout for special releases from local craft breweries, as they often produce innovative Christmas brews, with non-alcoholic options also available.

Madeira, m’dear?

A distinct and different type of wine… Gary Carter from Shropshire Wine School looks at varieties from the North Atlantic island

M

I was lucky enough to visit Blandy’s…

Did yo u kn ow?

AsMo esst aute re eat harum ex

modern Madeira

adeira is a beautiful place for a holiday, combining a rugged heating to 55°C for a few months in a steel is made from Tinta coastline, soaring tree-clad mountains and a climate that’s Negro grapes in a container or ageing in barrels in humid medium-sweet warm almost all year round. It’s also home to perhaps the most warehouses for years. The result is a wine style unusual style of wine. Madeira wine was once a familiar like no other, especially long-aged name in English restaurants and drinks cupboards; wines from the four traditional “Think these days it’s less popular, which is a shame. white grape varieties: Sercial, Verdelho, Bual and Malmsey. caramel, While the volcanic soil produces grapes high in There are only a handful of producers these days and by far burnt sugar, the largest and most well known is Blandy’s. acidity, table wine grown in this climate would be at best passable, so for molasses Three to try centuries Madeira wine – yum!”

Blandy’s Duke of Clarence Rich (Tinta Negra), Tesco £14.50 has been fortified (like A deep golden-brown colour with honey and raisins on the port and sherry). It was nose, rich, full bodied and soft textured. shipped around the world, passing Blandy’s 5-Year-Old Sercial, Ocado £21 Pale, bright topaz, with dry through the tropics, creating a ‘cooked’ fruit, wood and citrus flavours and a fresh and nutty persistent finish. character, think caramel, burnt sugar, Blandy's 10-Year-Old Malmsey, Waitrose £19.99 The marmalade, fig molasses – yum! This heat treatment and burnt sugar bouquet unfurls in the glass. Brilliant with fruitcake! is continued to this day, either by

Not the ideal climate for wine

54 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

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WELCOME TO

COME AND SEE US at our unique setting at the historic Henllys Hall, just outside beautiful Beaumaris on the Island of Anglesey, where you will find a great choice of traditional and contemporary food and service with a warm Harry’s welcome.

You’ll find our restaurant a unique and unhurried place to enjoy our bistro style food, our award winning desserts and our specially selected wines.

If you are visiting Anglesey on a Sunday our lunches are very popular with visitors and Island residents.

HARRY’ S BISTRO IN BEAUMARIS IS ALL ABOUT GOOD FOOD

Harry’s Bistro, Henllys Hall, Beaumaris, Anglesey LL58 8HU Tel: 01248 812976 ~ Fax: 01248 812976 ~ Email: enquiries@harrysbistro.com ~ Web: www.harrysbistro.com

055_SHIRE_ND2023.indd 1

27/10/2023 13:01

Festive Feasting

Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa

Indulge in a magical Cheshire Christmas at the Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa. ’Tis the season to eat, drink and be merry with family, colleagues and friends, so whether you’re planning a special meal in Chester, a party or a cosy festive break, let the Grosvenor Pulford Hotel take care of every detail and make your celebrations sparkle. From seasonal set menus to signature festive afternoon teas, Palm Court and Nelson’s offer delightfully decadent feasting. Ring in the New Year with a delicious buffet and fantastic live entertainment. Plus, for little party-goers “For a cosy there’s a family party. reservations@ festive Email grosvenorpulford break” hotel.co.uk or call 01244 570 560.

Hencote Vineyard, near Shrewsbury With panoramic views over Hencote vineyard, Shrewsbury and the Shropshire Hills beyond, dining at The View is a unique experience. The menu is grounded in elements of modern British and classic French cuisine, playfully reimagining favourite dishes with high-end flair. Everything is produced in-house from scratch, sourced as locally as possible from within Shropshire.

This festive season, choose a classic à la carte Winter Menu or Christmas favourites from the Festive Menu, including a ninecourse Christmas Day lunch. Hencote also offers festive party nights on 1st, 8th and 15th December – three courses, DJ and dancefloor for just £49 per person. And visit Hencote, online or in-store, and purchase your wine for the festive season as well as wine gifts for those who are hard to buy for. www.hencote.com

Harry’s Bistro, Beaumaris Nia and Simon Doyle know how to give you a magical “Magical Christmas experience at festive Harry’s Bistro, Beaumaris. experience” You’ll be welcomed with the special Cocktail of the Year and over the course of a relaxing and unhurried lunch you’ll enjoy five courses of visually beautiful, sumptuous food. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available.

Harry’s is a well-loved restaurant within Henllys Hall, a mansion above Beaumaris town and castle, commanding views across the Menai Strait to the mountains of Snowdonia. Their unique style of bistro food uses produce sourced locally from Anglesey. To book, call 01248 812 976. www.harrysbistro.com

Netley Hall, near Shrewsbury

“Fine Named after the imposing Georgian clock tower that overlooks its western courtyard, Netley Hall’s Clock Tower Restaurant is in dining the heart of the countryside, just 15 minutes from Shrewsbury. tasting Taking inspiration from the roaring menu” 1920s, the restaurant’s lavish interior includes Waterford crystal chandeliers, exquisite tapestries and a stunning stained0glass ceiling. Their festive menu will ignite your tastebuds with holiday-inspired dishes for every palate from traditional to contemporary. From 1st December enjoy a fine dining tasting menu, with an exquisite wine selection to complement every dish. Afterwards, relax in the Hall’s snooker bar and elegant lounges. Reserve a table on 01743 718 339. www.clocktoweratnetley.com Sandy Mount House, Rhosneigr in Anglesey Sandy Mount House is a contemporary beach house restaurant and bar in the seaside village of Rhosneigr on Anglesey. A home from home to gather and eat – think cosy corners, log fires and stylish interiors. Award-winning Executive Chef Hefin Roberts oversees the kitchen team, who serve high quality, locally sourced seasonal produce with the emphasis on Welsh flavours and culinary tradition. Enjoy a wonderfully curated selection of craft ales, beers and cocktails all served with a smile.

This Christmas season Sandy Mount House is going ‘classic’, promising a culinary journey that’ll leave you feeling merry and satisfied. Meet Santa and savour a delicious roast dinner on 3rd, 10th or 17th December, or join a dazzling New Year’s Eve party featuring a six-course dinner with a glass of bubbles. www.sandymounthouse.co.uk 56 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

Woodworks Café, Mold Woodworks Café at The Woodworks Garden Centre in Mold has been awarded Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice 2023.

Spend time with friends and family enjoying tasty dishes by a log-burning fire.

Serving festive favourites such as roast turkey with all the trimmings, the Café is the perfect place to get together this holiday season. Whether it’s for a family occasion, a business meeting or any special event, Woodworks Café can take the stress of catering out of your hands and prepare a delicious, fresh range of generously portioned sandwiches, savouries and cakes for you to enjoy. Christmas specials including homemade Christmas cake are available from 1st December, booking “Tasty is recommended dishes by on 01352 752 555 the fire” option 3. www. woodworksgc.com

g

FOOD & DRINK

Alderford Lake, Whitchurch

“Catch

Lakeside Kitchen at Alderford up over Lake, near Whitchurch is a friendly delicious destination for long-overdue catch-ups over delicious food. As food” Christmas approaches, you will be spoilt for choice with their celebratory offerings, from Festive Afternoon Tea to the perfect Christmas party menu. The location couldn’t be more appropriate for your special gathering, with a warming fire and the breathtaking view of the lake and surroundings. The Christmas season brings tempting seasonal specials including Yorkshire Pudding Wraps, Bailey’s Hot Chocolate, not forgetting the heavenly sweet treats. There is no better place for your Christmas celebrations than this Shropshire gem! www.alderford.com

Chartists 1770 at The Trewythen, Llanidloes With two AA rosettes and four stars from Visit Wales, you can expect “Elegant culinary excellence at this elegant yet casual fine dining restaurant, where yet casual the emphasis is on natural, sustainable fi ne food, sourced from dedicated local dining” Welsh farmers and producers. Nearly all the food is prepared and made on the premises, including breads, jams and chutneys, by the team of Cambrian Training Company’s culinary arts apprentices under the expert tutelage of Executive Chef, Jamie Tully.

The restaurant is located in the Grade-II listed Trewythen, which offers seven boutique en-suite bedrooms. Open seven days a week, it serves coffee and cake, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. Booking is highly recommended: call 01686 411 333. www.trewythenhotel.wales

Docket No.33, Whitchurch

Whitchurch is one of Shropshire’s “Inspired culinary hotspots

by Stuart’s and at its centre travels” is Docket No.33.

Opened by Stuart and Frances in 2017, it offers a single £85 tasting menu inspired by Stuart’s travels, focused on produce sourced from Shropshire, Cheshire and the Welsh Borders. Absolutely everything is made by the team, including all the breads, crackers and condiments. Docket No.33 was awarded a Plate in the 2020 edition of the Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland.

For reservations call 01948 665 553. www.docketrestaurant.com

Good Pub Guide Bryntirion Inn, Llandderfel, Bala

Dating back to 1695 and just four miles from Lake Bala, ‘the Bryn’ is the ideal place to stop when visiting beautiful North Wales. Sample a range of real ales in the cosy bar, including beers from the award-winning Purple Moose Brewery in Porthmadog. There’s a personally selected wine list, some organic. On the growing ‘must try’ list you’ll find Penderyn, a Welsh malt whisky and Merlyn, a Welsh cream liqueur. The attractive food menu offers curries to classics such as haddock and chips, complemented by a great selection of Fair Trade teas and coffees. Open all day, well-behaved dogs welcome! www.bryntirioninn.co.uk

The Bailey Head, Oswestry Everyone is welcome at the Bailey Head, a friendly real pub awarded Shrewsbury & West Shropshire CAMRA Pub of the Year. It has an ever-changing real ale and craft beer menu, with real cider and an extensive can and bottle collection. There are over 100 gins, plus whiskies, rums, vodkas, wines and other drinks. The pub is dog friendly with water bowls and free snacks as well as a more substantial dog snack menu. Food is no longer served, but customers are welcome to bring food in, get a takeaway or a delivery.

There is a large range of crisps, nuts,Shropshire Salami and other pub edibles. Open Tuesday–Thursday 3-11pm, Friday and Saturday noon-midnight, Sunday noon-10.30pm. www.baileyhead.co.uk

The Boat At Erbistock With a warm, inviting atmosphere, delicious food and drink, and festive entertainment, The Boat at Erbistock is the perfect place to celebrate the holiday season. Dating back to the mid-17th century this beautiful riverside inn has been welcoming customers for centuries, and has evolved into a 21st-century country pub whilst preserving its charm. A warren of larger and smaller rooms provide ample space for all: from dedicated drinkers and diners to walkers, bikers, anglers, canoeists, and of course well-behaved dogs! The Boat has an impressive dining menu, with almost all dishes produced on-site by a team of chefs using local produce. They offer five cask beers, including brews from Wales, Cheshire and Shropshire, along with the house-distilled Lady Dee gin. www.theboataterbistock.co.uk November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 57

FOOD & DRINK

Rec ip es

Two delectable festive dishes to try

Dark chocolate ‘pot du crème’ with white chocolate truffle Serves 6 • 285g milk • 285g cream • 250g dark chocolate 70% (pistoles or chopped) • 110g egg yolk • 20g caster sugar • 15g cocoa nibs Bring the milk and cream to a simmer. Separately, whisk the egg yolk with the caster sugar and a small pinch of salt. Whilst continuing to whisk, pour half the milk and cream mixture into the eggs and mix. Now, pour into the pan with the remaining milk and cream.

Over a medium heat, gently cook the mixture, whisking continuously, until it reaches a temperature of 85˚C. Pour the custard mixture over the dark chocolate and mix until fully melted. Use a hand-blender to blend thoroughly.

Pour into serving dishes and loosely cover with clingfilm.

Place into the fridge for 4 hours to chill and set.

For the white chocolate truffle: Melt 100g white chocolate over a pan of water to 36˚C. Whisk 100g crème fraiche and 100g cream until firm, then add the chocolate. Whisk quickly, pour into a container and reserve.

To serve: Remove the pot du crème from the fridge 30 minutes before eating. Sprinkle a few cocoa nibs on top. Using a warm spoon, shape the white chocolate truffle and place on top.

Recipe by Stuart Collins at Docket No.33, and as featured in the Great British Chefs cookbook

The Woodworks Christmas Cake

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Simon’s Welsh Rarebit Scone

with Sundried Tomato Butter (makes 4 large or 8 small scones)

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

Ingredients:

Method:

• 225g self-raising flour • 75g salted butter (chilled and grated) • 1 egg • 2 tablespoons (tbsp) milk • 75g Welsh cheddar cheese • 2 tbsp hot mustard • 4 tbsp Worcestershire sauce • 4 tbsp ale • Pinch of salt & pepper

• Preheat oven to 220ºc.

Sundried Tomato Butter

Part 1 • 6 oz olive spread or butter • 9 oz brown sugar • 21 oz mixed fruit in brandy (brandy optional, add cherries if desired) • 12 fl oz water • 1 ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda • 1 tsp mixed spice Part 2 • 3 eggs, beaten • 6 oz plain flour • 6 oz self-raising flour • Pinch of salt

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

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

100g sundried tomato 250g soft butter

“Lovingly

Preheat oven to Gas Mark 4 / made by one 170°C / Fan 150°. Grease and line of our in-house a 2lb loaf tin with baking paper. bakers” Place all the ingredients from Part 1 in a saucepan and bring to the boil. Simmer for 5 minutes, then let cool for a few hours.

Add all the ingredients in Part 2 to Part 1 and mix by hand until the mixture is smooth. Place in the prepared loaf tin.

Cook for between 1 hour and 1 hour 30 minutes. After an hour, check the cake with a cake tester or toothpick: when it comes out clean, it’s cooked!

Enjoy a slice of tasty Christmas Cake in The Woodworks Café this December. Call 01352 752 555, option 3 to book a table.

58 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

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

• Add the butter and blend again it’s a smooth paste • Refrigerate until needed.

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

• Place flour and butter into a mixing bowl.

Rub the butter into the flour until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.

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

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

• Add the liquid mix to the dry ingredients and stir. It should come together as a slightly sticky dough. Do not overwork.

Add more milk or flour if needed.

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

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

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

• Serve warm!

Food & Drink

SHIRE magazine

There is a huge choice of high quality local food and drink produced in the Shire region, from dairy farms, locally reared meat, fish from the Irish Sea, local varieties of fruit and vegetables, micro breweries, distilleries and vineyards.

Warm, friendly & welcoming

To get our reader’s attention, have your food or drink business featured in the popular Food & Drink section of Shire.

A traditional, family-run inn with home-cooked food, real ales and roaring fires • Set in stunning rural countryside • • Ideally suited for Snowdonia • Free wi-fi • • Function room available • Dogs welcome • OPEN ALL DAY

Get in touch now advertising@shiremagazine.co.uk or simply call (01691) 661 270

FOOD SERVED from 12 noon to 3pm & 6pm to 9pm, and all day Sundays LLANDDERFEL, BALA, GWYNEDD, LL23 7RA Tel: 01678 530 205 www.bryntirioninn.co.uk

The Bailey Head, Bailey Head, Oswestry, Shropshire SY11 1PZ • 19 Draught Craft Beers and Real Ales • 6 Draught Ciders • Over 100 Gins • Whiskies, Rums, Vodkas and Wines • Extensive Alcohol Free and Gluten Free ranges • Dog and family friendly • Bring your own food, a takeaway, or have food delivered

www.baileyhead.co.uk 059_SHIRE_ND2023.indd 1

27/10/2023 16:45

Locomotive

Luxury

Self Catering Accommodation in our Bespoke Glamping Wagons Available with Wood-fired Hot Tubs

Also Available Hardstanding Touring and Seasonal Pitches at our Award Winning Waterways Marina

All enquiries please call us on 01270 812677

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Oswestry 01691 652126 Newtown 01686 626576 Whitchurch 01948 662361

JUST A SMALL SELECTION OF OUR 2023 FESTIVE COACH HOLIDAYS…

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BOURNEMOUTH TURKEY & TINSEL London Day Trip (SH) Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre (SH) Liverpool Shopping & Christmas Market Blackpool & Illuminations Mystery Tour With Christmas Lunch (SH) Afternoon & Evening at Chester Christmas Market Chester Zoo & The Lanterns

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Including a visit to festive Osbourne House, IoW 27th Nov – 1st Dec 5 Days from £430.00

PAIGHTON TURKEY & TINSEL Staying at the excellent Marine Hotel (4.5 star Tripadvisor) 1st – 4th Dec 4 Days from £339 LOCHS, GLENS & EDINBURGH CHRISTMAS MARKET Fantastic Hotel Package Including Free Bar, Packed Lunches, Afternoon Tea, Hotel Entertainment 15th - 18th Dec 4 Days from only £315

27/10/2023 13:21

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Chartists 1770 at The Trewythen Offering a unique, casual fine dining experience in the centre of Llanidloes, with four stars from Visit Wales and two AA rosettes for culinary excellence, Chartists 1770 at The Trewythen is training a team of award-winning apprentices

T

he Trewythen, home of Chartists 1770, is part of Cambrian Training Company, which provides work-based learning to support thousands of apprentices across a wide range of sectors.

At the restaurant and rooms, the company is “nurturing the next generation of hospitality professionals to achieve their career ambitions” – and they are certainly gaining top-level experience.

We couldn’t think of any comparable high-quality restaurant with such a unique set-up, and were keen to see what the kitchen team could produce.

As an hors d’oeuvre, we were offered Chartists’ own sourdough bread and sweet onion chutney. The bread was excellent! A delicate cupcake-shaped tart followed – a sweet cinnamon casing filled with fine beetroot strips, tangy blackberries and ricotta, topped with wild flowers. The Chartists Cawl was a creative and absolutely delicious update on the traditional Welsh stew: lamb neck cooked slowly until falling apart, with turnip cubes and tiny florets of al dente cauliflower. The pickled mussels gave a lovely sharp counterpoint.

Scallops – large, juicy and lightly cooked in butter – came on a bed of curried pearl barley, rich and creamy with a hint of spice and lots of texture. A superb lobster sauce completed the dish, a delicious saltiness coming from the samphire garnish.

Welsh seasonal produce cooked to an award-winning standard

Jamie giving a cooking demo at the Mid Wales Autumn Fayre

Clockwise: Ricotta & Beetroot Tart, Assiette of Welsh Lamb, the interior, St Ives Scallops

Chartists 1770 at The Trewythen Great Oak Street, Llanidloes SY18 6BW 01686 411 333 Open seven days a week Booking is highly recommended to avoid disappointment

The second of our mains, the assiette (‘plate’) of lamb, was a culinary showcase – medium-rare loin running with juices, a whole kidney and a roll of slow-cooked shank in breadcrumbs, accompanied with ratatouille, stem broccoli and carrot purée to add a sweet note, and the most delicious lamb jus imaginable.

After a comfortable night in the Oak Room, recently refurbished and easily four-star standard, we were greeted downstairs with coffee and a hearty Welsh breakfast, featuring local wild boar sausage and more of that divine sourdough, toasted. The bread was so good we bought a loaf to take home.

We look forward to returning to this unique place, which under the Cambrian Training Company umbrella is nurturing young talent and showing that youth is no barrier to culinary The Trewythen was the scene of the excellence.

Why is the restaurant named Chartists 1770?

Chartists Revolt in April 1839, which saw peaceful protests for voting rights take over the streets of Llanidloes – protests that helped pave the way for more successful electoral campaigns later on.

I N TE RV I E W W I TH E X E C U TI V E C H E F JA MI E TU L LY

‘‘The approach to the food is simple – it’s seasonal, sustainable, local, and stems from my experience all over the world, but it’s also aimed at teaching these guys the correct way of doing things. We produce as much as we can – nearly everything – in-house.

“We’ve had this team together for a year now, and within three months we had the rosettes, which we’re hugely proud of. We’ve got a chef in the kitchen who is 18 years old, consistently delivering this level of food. They’ve all come on a lot.

“Local is very important to our menu. Our beef and lamb come from a mile up the road and are prepared by the butcher across the street. We’re coming into game season so we’ll have pheasant, duck and wild boar. In the fruit-picking season we take the team foraging up the Elan Valley too.”

The Menu Starters Ricotta and Beetroot Tart with blackberry ketchup and baby cress £8 Chartists Cawl with braised lamb shoulder, pickled mussels and lamb broth £9 Mains St Ives Scallops with curried pearl barley, cauliflower, samphire and lobster sauce £24 Assiette of Welsh Lamb, loin, shank, kidney, Provençal vegetables, lamb jus £26 Dessert Chartists Black Forest Gateau with cherry compote and cherry sorbet £8

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 61

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Holidays The key to stress-free lettings Let it go: relax and reap the rewards of holiday home ownership

P

ass the Keys Llyn Peninsula represents a novel approach to property management, meticulously tailored to cater to the needs of property owners on short-let platforms like Airbnb.

The dedicated team take on responsibility for every aspect, from property listing and guest management to post-checkout cleaning. They go the extra mile, providing guests with premium

hotel-quality toiletries and ensuring a thorough professional cleaning and laundry service after each stay.

Through the client portal, property owners can maintain a firm grip on their investment, with the ability to track occupancy, earnings and upcoming reservations, and the flexibility to block out dates for personal use. Pass the Keys is committed to ensuring property owners attain the maximum return from their short-term rentals without the associated labour.

This team of Airbnb enthusiasts combines the power of cutting-edge technology with “Cuttinga commitment to excellent customer service, resolving any challenges that may arise. edge Their profound understanding of the local technology area equips hosts with a consistent, end-tocombined end five-star service. Whether you’re seeking a hassle-free, financially rewarding hosting with experience or are simply interested in learning excellent how to generate income from your property, service” Pass the Keys is here to make it all happen.

Explore more at www.passthekeys.co.uk and unlock the potential of your property.

You keep control but lose the headaches

Here’s to Hencote

“An enchanting journey into the world of winemaking”

I

n the heart of the glorious Shropshire countryside, Hencote Estate offers a tranquil retreat alongside a unique insight into the world of wine-making. Famous for its vineyard and award-winning wines, Hencote is a haven for wine enthusiasts, foodies and nature lovers alike.

An on-site restaurant, aptly named The View, boasting sweeping views and a casual dining experience, is the perfect setting for a relaxing lunch or dinner whilst savouring the estate’s exceptional produce. Hencote also offers wine tours and tastings, providing an insight into the making of its award-winning wines.

The Grange at Hencote sleeps up to 14

What really sets Hencote apart is the opportunity to stay on the vast estate, soaking up the delights on offer. The Grange is a self-catering holiday home that sleeps up to 14 guests in seven en-suite bedrooms. The renovated Georgian farmhouse has been exquisitely designed throughout with contemporary home comfort. Featuring spacious living areas, well-appointed bedrooms and three acres of private land, with hot tub and outdoor eating area, The Grange also has fabulous views of the vineyard, the historic town of Shrewsbury and the Shropshire and Welsh Hills. This elegant house is perfect for families or group of friends wishing to enjoy a peaceful break or celebrating a special occasion.

Hencote isn’t just a place to stay; it’s an enchanting journey into the world of wine-making and the serenity of rural Shropshire – an ideal destination for those in search of luxury, relaxation and British wine culture. www.hencote.com

The estate enjoys far-reaching views to the Shropshire Hills November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 63

HOLIDAYS

The next step

A place of your own

G A hassle-free handover experience

S

ituated in Pwllheli, Property Concierge Group extends its services across the Llŷn Peninsula, specialising in premium cleaning, linen turnover and property management solutions tailored to the needs of holiday lets and second homes. Its accomplished team of dedicated professionals consistently uphold the highest standards of excellence and efficiency, earning its clients nationwide accolades and five-star reviews.

A comprehensive suite of services covers all aspects of property management, with full changeover service ensuring every property is in immaculate condition for new guests. The state-of-the-art laundry centre in Pwllheli further streamlines property readiness.

In addition to these core services, “Earning Concierge Group goes the extra five-star Property mile with a Guest Concierge offering, reviews” while its Key Holder Service provides peace of mind for those who reside far from their holiday homes. Property maintenance is made effortless via the group’s trusted network of trade professionals. www.propertyconciergegroup.co.uk

lansevin presents a distinctive, comfortable retreat in the glorious Welsh countryside, offering a haven where guests can truly make the space their own. However simple or luxurious, lively or The house sits in extensive grounds tranquil, the team is devoted to meeting your unique requirements. They will gladly organise for grand gatherings or intimate getaways with friends.

Upon arrival, you’ll find the beds made up and fires set to be lit, allowing you to instantly feel at home. The expansive grounds provide an ideal setting for outdoor games, making use of the sauna or taking a dip in the refurbished outdoor pool. The gardens provide access to scenic country walks, and within reach lies a wealth of castles, lakes and waterfalls to be explored. The region also boasts delightful eateries, galleries, a deer park and botanical gardens.

Glansevin operates as a selfcatering venue, equipped with a fully stocked kitchen, but for those who prefer, outstanding caterers can be recommended. www.glansevinmansion.com Feel instantly at home

Escape the hustle and bustle

E

the beaches of stablished in 2022, Well House Cottages offers Carmarthenshire, an individual selection of holiday properties that “Luxury combine contemporary luxury and enduring charm. there is a Well and House Cottages Whether you are seeking a weekend’s enduring property to the heart total relaxation charm” capture Choose from stunning locations of every visitor. or planning a week exploring a Whatever your dream – be it mountain trails, an invigorating sea breeze, rural tranquillity or the vibrant energy new area, Well House can of a busy town – reach out to discuss your holiday requirements help you locate the perfect and the dedicated team at Well House Cottages will be accommodation in your dream destination. From the rolling delighted to assist in securing you a break to remember. www.wellhousecottages.co.uk hills of Monmouthshire to Properties are carefully selected

Hot spots

TATTON PARK

T

atton Park is a 1,000-acre estate on the outskirts of the Cheshire town of Knutsford, renowned for its meticulously landscaped gardens, sweeping parkland and historic mansion, Tatton Hall. It is also home to a popular rare-breeds farm. The park is owned by the National Trust and financed and managed by Cheshire East Council.

“Herds A standout feature of the park of wild are the herds of wild deer that have deer roam roamed here freely since the 13th century. Over the festive season, freely” parents often bring little ones on walks through the parkland to catch a glimpse of Father Christmas’s furry friends!

Visitors can explore Tatton’s splendid gardens, including the Italian and Japanese gardens, and revel in the beauty of the natural surroundings. The estate’s educational programmes and events provide an engaging experience for all ages, making Tatton Park a cherished destination.

64 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

Hot spots

ATTINGHAM PARK

A

ttingham Park is a cherished gem in Shropshire’s cultural landscape. The splendid National Trust property outside Shrewsbury is a captivating blend of history, landscape and engaging family experiences. The 18th-century mansion showcases the opulent lifestyle of its former owners, the Berwick family, the immaculately preserved rooms providing a glimpse into the past.

The park is home to a resident herd of fallow deer, making it a particularly delightful attraction during the Christmas “Add a season. Many families keep the tradition of a festive walk through touch of the park to see the deer in their magic element, adding a touch of magic to the to the holiday season.

Numerous walking and cycling holidays” trails criss-cross the estate, while the park’s walled garden and orchard are a haven of tranquillity for nature enthusiasts.

Offers you a unique & comfortable setting in the beautiful Welsh countryside, with privacy & seclusion, that you can truly make your own. Simple or luxurious; bustling or relaxed; large gatherings or small groups, Glansevin is dedicated entirely to your needs.

When you arrive, your beds will be made and the fires ready to light, you can relax and feel at home, knowing that Glansevin is exclusively yours.

The large grounds are the perfect place to play games, relax in the sunshine, use the sauna or swim in our refurbished outdoor pool.

Indoors, the games room will be ready for the children (adults as well).

The drawing room bar will be ready for you to stock your favourite refreshments, we are a no corkage venue, just fill the bar and relax.

We are a self-catering venue with a large, fully equipped kitchen, next to the dining room ready for use. We can put you in touch with our wonderful local caterers or you can hire your own.

You can walk into the countryside from the gardens, or further afield there are castles, lakes and waterfalls to discover. Delicious eateries, art galleries, deer park & botanical gardens are within a short drive.

A stay here offers a slice of Wales at its best.

Luxury accommodation in a stunning canalside location beaconparkcottages.co.uk

Llangadog, Carmarthenshire, Wales, SA19 9HY enquiries@glansevin.com | www.glansevinmansion.com

07734980509

enquiries@beaconparkcottages.co.uk

Short term and holiday let for homeowners on the Llyn Peninsula We manage your property on short-letting sites like Airbnb, so you don’t have to. We list it, find the guests, look after them, and even clean up after them. Providing you with a full range of services will help achieve the maximum return on your property via short-term letting, without any of the hard work. llyn@passthekeys.co.uk 07752 397170

https://www.passthekeys.com/llyn-peninsula

065_SHIRE_ND2023.indd 1

27/10/2023 13:20

Relax in nature

H

idden from the rest of the world on the banks of the River Perry, just outside Shrewsbury, Riverside Cabins offer an escape for families and couples in the heart of Shropshire.

This boutique collection of individually styled luxury cabins and lodges, already recognised in the Guardian’s Top 30 Cottages and Campsites, caters to any request. Larger lodges come complete with their own private hot tub, while for the smaller cabins, two secluded woodland hot tubs are available for hire. The cabins are thoughtfully spaced out to offer that desirable ‘away from it all’ seclusion.

For those who like to explore further on breaks away, there are SUPs and kayaks for guests to borrow and a couple of e-bikes for hire. Two of the larger lodges feature access ramps for those with restricted mobility.

The rural location is perfect for embracing the great outdoors, with wonderful walks and wildlife on the doorstep. The accommodation is dogfriendly too, so the family Accommodation is thoughtfully spaced

Best of both worlds

Sit and enjoy the sea air

N

estled in tranquil countryside on the North Wales coast yet just 10 minutes from a pristine beach, Ynyshir Farm is the ideal holiday retreat, offering green fields, plenty of space and panoramic sea views. The expansive site is perfectly located 10 minutes from Talacre Beach and 20 minutes from the seaside hub of Rhyl. For adventure seekers, Zip World, Surf Snowdonia and a ski centre are all within an hour’s drive. The area is also a haven for hikers, with the beautiful Greenfield Valley Heritage Park providing countless trails to explore, including to the ancient ruins of Basingwerk Abbey, dating from the 12th century.

Unwind and roam the verdant fields that stretch towards the hills, with Snowdonia in the distance.

The farm provides ample space for relaxation, reading and lounging beneath wide open skies, and enjoys majestic sunsets. Gather around a campfire or fire up the Brand-new facilities grill for alfresco dining. The site extends a warm welcome to well-behaved dogs, making it “Ample ideal for family getaways. space for Site facilities include a smart relaxing new shower block, and there are supermarkets, pubs, beneath restaurants and takeaway wide open options within a five-minute skies” drive. Follow on Facebook: Ynyshir Farm Campsite

66 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

“Yoga retreats in the new woodland wellness studio”

Enjoy the peace from your balcony

pet doesn’t have to miss out on the fun.

There are lots of nearby historic sites and attractions to visit, not to mention beautiful countryside to explore. The Riverside Cabins team can even arrange a bespoke tour of the local area.

Shropshire is a fantastic ‘off the beaten track’ destination, with plenty to keep all ages entertained during a weekend stay, a short break or a longer holiday. And for unrivalled relaxation, Riverside Cabins also host Yoga Retreats in their new woodland wellness studio. www.riverside-cabins.co.uk

NOT A CARE IN THE WORLD

F

rom its base in the village of Llangattock in the heart of the Brecon Beacons, Beacon Park Boats offers a unique and unforgettable way to explore the stunning natural beauty of the National Park.

An idyllic setting for your boating adventure Embark on a leisurely voyage by narrowboat along the historic Monmouthshire “A unique and Brecon Canal, amid some of the most breathtaking scenery in Wales. way to All vessels in the Becon Park hire explore fleet are not only well-maintained nature” but also elegantly designed, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience for every guest.

As you cruise along the canal, you’ll be captivated by the tranquillity of the waterway and the lush, rolling hills that stretch as far as the eye can see. The area is renowned for its landscapes and this canal-boat adventure offers a frontrow seat onto the region’s natural wonders.

Beacon Park Boats caters to both experienced deckhands and those new to the water, providing comprehensive training and guidance for all guests. With options for short breaks or longer holidays, it’s an ideal way to unwind and appreciate the beauty of the Brecon Beacons at your own pace, whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure or a peaceful retreat. www.beaconparkboats.com

All boats are in immaculate order

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ACTIVE

The only way is up

A new report has highlighted the most popular mountain climbs in the UK, and two of them are on the Shire patch. It’s time to head for the hills…

On top of the world

T

he town-based route in our regular walks column below is very dangerous. Plan ahead, and be prepared to turn back if conditions deteriorate. The experts also recommend: a pleasant afternoon amble, but we’re conscious that many of you like to walk off the Christmas excess with a serious hike.

Use a buddy system And with outdoor experts having named two of Snowdonia’s Never climb alone. Going with a partner or peaks as among the nation’s favourites to as part of a group can provide an extra level climb, who are we to argue!

“The views of support should anything go wrong.

The research by Go Outdoors looked make it at terrain, distance and height to single appropriate gear out the 15 best days in the hills. Ben Nevis worthwhile” Carry Bring extra clothes including an insulated came in top, but our own Snowdon was jacket. Pack a basic first aid kit, whistle and a close second. At 14.4km for the round flashlight in case of emergencies. route, taking approximately 5 hours 40 minutes, it’s no mean feat – but as anyone who has done it on a clear day will tell you, the views make it all worthwhile.

Scafell Pike in Cumbria came third and hot on its heels was Tryfan, another Snowdonia favourite. With a summit taking 3 hours 10 minutes this is a simpler haul than Snowdon, but still requires 6.5km of hiking, with some serious inclines too.

Before you head out, check the Met Office Mountain Forecast as mountain weather is localised and sudden changes can be

Keep hydrated and stay nourished

Walk with a buddy

Carry water and substantial snacks if you’ll be on the move for extended periods. A bag with a water bladder is recommended.

Communicate with others

Let someone know your intended route, estimated return time and emergency contact information.

The recommended climbs can be found at https:// blog.gooutdoors.co.uk/15-mountains-to-climb-in-uk/

A seasonal stroll A festive outing with a difference as we combine a Darwin-themed circular walk with a bit of history and plenty of shopping opportunities on this Ramblers route around Shrewsbury Difficulty level: Easy Walking time: 1 hour 35 minutes Length: 5.5km/3.4 miles

Start: Shrewsbury railway station

“…a glimpse of the house where Darwin was born”

From the station, turn left up Castle Gates to the library on your right, fronted by a statue of Darwin looking suitably distinguished: this was once Shrewsbury School, where Darwin was a boarder, although accounts suggest he held no love for the place. Have a peak at the wooden beams in the first-floor music library.

Turn left and left again down Meadow Place. Cross the road and keep ahead with the bus station on your left. Climb the steps and cross the footbridge, then turn right along the riverside trail.

The path skirts the cricket ground and tracks a tranquil loop of the River Severn. Pass a series of interpretation boards and keep to the path up steps, through terraced gardens and down again to a delightful area of unimproved meadows. At the fifth

68 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

Allow some extra time for window shopping

interpretation board, look behind you for a glimpse of the house where Darwin was born on 12th February 1809.

Take the footpath away from the river onto The Mount. Turn left, passing Darwin’s former home, and follow the pavement to Franklin roundabout. At the traffic lights, turn right over Welsh Bridge. Cross the road and keep ahead to the timbered Shrewsbury Museum, with its collection of Darwin, Victorian natural history and Roman artefacts. Find the rest of the route at www.ramblers.org and follow it to discover ancient granite, city walls and of course a town centre full of festive shops and stops!

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26/10/2023 18:02

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Her career has taken her all over the world.

But for yachtie and actress Courtney Veale, star of TV’s smash-hit Below Deck, North Wales will always be home.

Full real name (including any embarrassing middle names!) Courtney Veale. Childhood nickname: Courts.

Below Deck nickname: Coco.

What do you do? For the past four years I’ve worked on superyachts, both as a deckhand and stewardess.

That involves things like driving the tenders, getting the watersports equipment in and out the water, serving guests, cleaning, housekeeping and doing the laundry.

Who shares your life? I’m single. I grew up with my mother Simone, dad Charlie and brother Josh.

Our current family dog is a shih tzu called Ralph.

4

Highlight of the past 12 months? I can’t choose just one! Some of my best moments have included gaining my yoga teaching qualification in California and filming an exciting new TV show called The Challenge UK in Argentina. Raising over £3,000 for Alzheimer’s Research UK in December was an incredible feeling.

5 6

And the worst moment? Losing a friend to suicide.

It was a really sad time and no one was expecting it.

If you could come back as any animal, what would you be and why? I think a fish or a dolphin as I’d like to experience life underwater. The real dream would be a mermaid, where you can have the best of both worlds!

7

What song would you take to a desert island?

‘Location’ by Dave. There’s just something about it that fills me with happiness. But most music does that.

8

If you could have one superpower what would it be?

To be transported anywhere at the click of my fingers. I love travelling. Also it would probably help with my toxic trait of being late to everything!

9

Who is your all-time hero and how have they inspired you? My mum. She’s there for us through more than I can write, all while having a full-time job.

10

What would you’d buy if you won the lottery?

I’d send a big chunk to the care home my dad’s in, because the staff there are amazing. And hire out a big yacht to enjoy with my nearest and dearest!

11

Your worst fear or phobia? Spiders, or just about any creepy-crawly.

70 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

What would be your dream job? Growing up I dreamt of being on the front of Vogue!

If you were representing your country in the Olympics which sport would you choose to do?

Gymnastics. I’d love to do a routine on the mat.

What is your favourite drink? Champagne. Or a matcha latte with oat milk – very specific!

If you had to take part in a reality TV show which would you have the best chance of winning?

Strictly – 1,000 percent! Anything where I could perform whilst wearing an incredible costume.

16 17

What’s your guilty pleasure?

Chocolate. I’m obsessed!

When did you last laugh uncontrollably and why?

Telling my family a funny story. I laugh so much, I cry and no one can understand me.

18

You’re hosting dinner for four guests.

Who’s on the list?

Anthony Joshua, Judi Dench, Tom Jones and Margot Robbie.

19

Your favourite place and why? My home town, Conwy. It brings me so much happiness driving over the bridge and seeing the castle every time I go home. It will always be special.

20

And your proudest moment? There’s two. Receiving the call I’d got the Below Deck job, and passing my £3k fundraising target for Alzheimer’s Research UK.

Any Tesla Powerwall systems installed and registered by 31st December 2023 can get a £350 rebate direct from Tesla.

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27/10/2023 15:53

DID YOU KNOW? 1 in every 4 working people in the UK is in a management role 8 in 10 managers didn’t receive any training before they started

“There isn’t any aspect of this role or being the boss I don’t like. I love my job!”

THE LEADERS WE LOVE

In our last issue we celebrated some of the motivational managers and brilliant bosses we’re lucky to have across the Shire patch. It’s a topic that clearly touched a chord with you all – we hope you find more inspirational ideas in our follow-up feature.

O

ver the generations, business management has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis. Leadership has evolved from the autocratic, command-based styles of yesteryear to the collaborative and inclusive models we see today.

This transformation is not merely a matter of preference; it’s a necessity dictated by the dynamic nature of modern business environments. The forces of globalisation, workforce diversity and the relentless pursuit of innovation have catalysed this transformation, offering leaders both challenges and opportunities to adapt and thrive. Over the following pages we meet some of the talented individuals from across the area who have managed to navigate this change with flair, resulting in a crop of brilliant bosses we’re proud to see steering some of Shire’s favourite businesses, organisations, charities and ventures to success.

72 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

Business name: Red Kite Fostering Phone: 01544 231 657 Web: www.red-kite-fostering.co.uk Fostering manager: Amelia Benson

What does your business specialise in?

We are a fostering agency, providing placements for children aged 0-18. We also recruit and train people interested in becoming Amelia Benson foster carers. Fostering is an incredibly skilled role and we help people understand more about it and develop those skills. The initial process is somewhere between four and six months, but everyone is different and we have to assess each individual and learn what they need in order to care for children.

What is the secret of being a good boss?

Prioritising the needs of the business and recognising people’s skills and talents so that it’s a team effort rather than one individual getting the credit. A joint effort that is rewarded and recognised is validation and feels good.

How has your business adapted since Covid?

We carried on working throughout, but we had to isolate and work from home. That was tough and it’s taken time to regroup. I suspect the effect of the lockdown will be felt for a long time. Our business is supporting carers and helping vulnerable children – face-to-face work is essential.

What new developments to your business have you added recently?

Improving communication both internally and externally. There is nothing as effective as communication in real life. We get used to IT, but we forget at our peril that it’s people at the heart of the business and they deserve our time

travelling to see them, or inviting them in. A text is nice but a cuppa together beats a text every time!

What is the best way to keep customers coming back?

Our own carers recommending Red Kite to others. There is nothing as effective as a personal recommendation.

How do you enjoy your spare time? (If you have any!)

I manage to squeeze in music and exercise, and getting to the sea as often as I can.

What is the best thing and worst thing about running your own business?

Best: when the Red Kite family (as I call them) are happy. And we are a family – we spend more time with each other than we do with our own families! Worst: there isn’t any aspect of this role or being the boss I don’t like. I love my job!

What piece of advice would you give someone starting a business?

Believe in yourself. Plough your own furrow.

Don’t look to others for opinions – but always look to a successful person if you do!

People are at the heart of Red Kit Fostering (picture posed by model)

Business name: Dorrington Old Hall Phone: 01743 719 100 Email: dinepersian@aol.co.uk Owner and chef: Dr Lal Haider

What does your business specialise in?

Persian-inspired cuisine. Food that tastes like no other mainstream cuisine. All recipes are exclusive to us and each dish is prepared from scratch, as opposed to following a formula.

“Dr Lal Haider, owner and chef, is a Shropshire surgeon who has such a love, passion and desire for food that he swaps his doctor’s coat for chef’s whites in the evenings and on weekends!”

Dr Lal Haider

What is the secret of being a good boss?

Treat your employees as family and listen to them.

DID YOU KNOW? Verbal communication and teamwork are the skills employees say they most want to see in a manager, along with leadership of course!

How has your business adapted since Covid?

Business took a massive hit due to the pandemic. It had to be downscaled to a hobby, rather that a profitmaking business!

What new developments to your business have you added recently?

Small features continue to be added, but nothing radical.

What is the best way to keep customers coming back?

Remain consistent and endeavour to improve.

How do you enjoy your spare time? (If you have any!)

My spare time is spent in the NHS! I’m a doctor by day.

What is the best thing and worst thing about running your own business?

Talking to a delighted and satisfied guest post-meal is wonderful.

Keeping immaculate records can prove tedious sometimes.

What piece of advice would you give to someone starting their own business?

Be patient and do not panic!

Prepare for a feast of flavours at Dorrington Old Hall

› November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 73

DID YOU KNOW? Almost 30% of people surveyed by the Chartered Management Institute said they’d left a job because of a poor relationship with a manager

“Seeing familiar faces return is always special. Some are now on their sixth or seventh visit and we’re really proud of our rebooking rate.”

Business name: Riverside Cabins Ltd Phone: 01939 260 495 Email: aprince@riverside-cabins.co.uk Web: www.riverside-cabins.co.uk Owner: Anthony Prince

Anthony Prince

What does your business specialise in?

Riverside Cabins is a small collection of boutique cabins and lodges offering relaxing breaks here in Shropshire. We’re all about escaping the everyday and enjoying some quality time as a couple, or with friends and family, leaving everyone feeling refreshed and recharged. And we’re dog-friendly too!

What is the secret of being a good boss?

Don’t underestimate how long it can take to recruit people with the right ingredients and experience to build a team that shares your vision.

How has your business adapted since Covid?

We opened three years ago, during the pandemic, and have continued to evolve ever since, retaining things that worked well such as our easy contactless check-in, while adding additional lodges and activities for our guests including SUPs and kayaks.

Sustainability is at the heart of what we do, so we’ve also been working on a PV (solar) project. We’re also excited about the possibility of a hydroelectric project to harness energy from the River Perry to power our cabins and achieve our carbon zero goal.

What new developments to your business have you added recently?

It’s been a really busy time. We’ve recently added another threebedroom lodge, completing our little collection, and this month we open our new outdoor kitchen – a fantastic oak-frame space for BBQs. We’re also adding the finishing touches to our new wellness studio ‘Robin’s Nest’, a locally made round building with a terrace overlooking the grounds, for year-round yoga retreats and more.

74 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

The team have achieved a lot in just three years – and there are exciting plans afoot

What is the best way to keep customers coming back?

Creating an experience that they love, keeping a close eye on the little things – and great communication. We pay close attention to our feedback, which absolutely helps shape what we offer.

How do you enjoy your spare time? (If you have any!)

Riverside Cabins has been a labour of love. That said, I stepped into this with my eyes open and I was under no illusion it would be a stroll in the park. All the cabins are named after my dogs so I do spend some time with Riverside Cabins’ Paw-Patrol!

What is the best thing and worst thing about running your own business?

Seeing familiar faces return is always special – some are now on their sixth or seventh visit and we’re really proud of our rebooking rate. Working alongside and supporting other Shropshire businesses has also been key to us. We’ve met some great people and love helping to show all that the area has to offer.

The worst thing?

Having just opened in September 2020, the second lockdown in November was testing.

What piece of advice would you give someone starting a business?

Be prepared for hours of hard work. It’s a journey, but go for it!

Rest and relaxation is the aim at Riverside Cabins

Business name: Welsh Lady Preserves Phone: 01766 810 496 Email: info@welshladypreserves.com Web: www.welshladypreserves.com General manager: Carol Jones

What does your business specialise in?

We cook jams, marmalades, fruit curds, savoury condiments – chutneys, relishes – anything that needs to be preserved with sugar or vinegar and stored in jars! Our specialist service is helping other businesses by making products Carol Jones for them, and this can be for this country or for export.

Well-established or start-ups alike can ask us to assist with either creating a recipe for them or replicating what they do but on a larger scale.

What is the secret of being a good boss?

Planning. I don’t like to be seen to have to react – I like to have time to plan, then I’m not on the back foot.

How has your business adapted since Covid?

There was a lot that we had to do physically in the factory, to make the environment safe for everyone working or visiting here. Commercially, we are finding that our Welsh Lady brand has become more popular as it is recognised by more as being local – there is an obvious trend towards buying Welsh produce, as it is synonymous with good air quality, pure water and attention to detail.

What new developments to your business have you added recently?

We have increased the range of sauces we make. People are obviously looking for ways to add value to meals at the moment, and our ketchup can raise a sausage sandwich to another level! We are having to make changes in an effort to cope with the rise in the cost of living: for example, we’re investing in more economical packaging, and looking into alternative sources of energy.

“Commercially, we are finding that our Welsh Lady brand has become more popular as it is recognised as being local. There is an obvious trend towards buying Welsh produce.”

What is the best thing and worst thing about running your own business?

Seeing the results of what you do.

What piece of advice would you give to someone starting a business?

Pay bills on time, don’t spend unless you really need to and look after your staff.

Welsh Lady’s Lemon Curd is an award-winning Supreme Champion

A home-made success story!

Welsh Lady Preserves is truly a family business, launched by Dio and Marion Jones, and now run by husband and wife John and Carol with their daughter Hannah. Welsh Lady products have won a remarkable number of awards over the years, including the ultimate accolade of Supreme Champion at the Great Taste Awards – on two separate occasions!

– for their All Butter Lemon Curd and their Apple and Cinnamon Curd.

Ingredients are weighed out by hand, then cooked in copper-bottomed open pans to retain the goodness of the finest fruits and vegetables that are available.

Quality standards are strictly adhered to and monitored by a weekly tasting panel. All products are free from artificial additives, preservatives and GM ingredients.

What is the best way to keep customers coming back?

Maintaining consistent quality, keeping prices down and providing a prompt service. We try to turn orders around as soon as they come in – people nowadays are so used to ordering items and taking delivery next day.

How do you enjoy your spare time? (If you have any!)

Time with family really is the most important.

DID YOU We have a three-year-old KNOW? granddaughter, she keeps 80% of customers say me grounded! the experience a company Carol and team are meeting the cost-of-living crisis with new sauces to add value to family meals

provides is just as necessary as its products or services (Salesforce)

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Homes & Interiors

PANEL EXPERTS Anyone who has flicked through social media will have spotted the trend for transforming interiors with simple wood panelling. One local company is a leading expert in the sector.

Consider covering just one wall as a focal point

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n terms of DIY projects, using decorative mouldings to create wall panelling is one of the easiest to complete. Relatively simple to install following accurate instructions – and with that all-important planning – it’s also pretty cost effective. The end result can have a huge impact on the look and feel of almost any home, and many of the supplies needed can be found locally thanks to the UK’s leading manufacturer of staircase parts and decorative mouldings, Richard Burbidge, based in North Wales.

Wall panelling guru and product manager at Richard Burbidge, Zoe Goff shared some design and installation tips.

“Wall panelling has many practical benefits that are not just aesthetic. It can conceal uneven surfaces and marks as well as protect walls in high traffic areas like hallways and doorways. However, less can sometimes be more when it comes to panelling. Opting to panel just one wall instead of the whole room can help to create a focal point, as well as create less work. Square panelling works best if you really want to make a statement, whereas

decorative panelling creates a more delicate look. Wainscot wall cladding is a popular choice for hallways and smaller spaces.”

Future focused

Richard Burbidge has focused on the manufacture and distribution of timber home improvement products for over 150 years, with sustainability at the heart of its ethos. In 2021, the firm joined the United Nations’ Race to Zero campaign, an initiative that saw the team pledge to achieve net zero no later than 2050. Since then, they have been busy ensuring they can operate as sustainably as possible moving forward, throughout every facet of the brand – “Re-use of our from manufacturing waste products and packaging is equivalent to to improving the everyday sustainable the weight of 140 habits of employees.

London buses” Zoe said: “Every department of our factory in Chirk is now powered exclusively by renewable energy, including electric forklift trucks. We recently installed over 2,600 solar panels, with our system producing enough A practical solution for imperfect surfaces energy to power 250 UK homes. The efficient re-use of all of our waste products under our ‘no waste’ policy is equivalent to the weight of 140 London buses.” “…a huge The business has already achieved a 62 percent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions following its actions, which impact on included installing seven EV charging points and switching to the look 100 percent renewable power on-site. The solar panels generate and feel 40 percent of the factory’s total energy requirements, providing of almost an annual saving of 175 tonnes of CO2e. any home” To view the full Richard Burbidge wall panelling collection visit www.richardburbidge.com

Go square as a statement

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 77

HOMES & INTERIORS

STUNNING

Styling Meet the Cheshire family who transformed a rundown property into the home of their (and Instagram’s) dreams

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hen Melissa and her family decided to move to escape new development near their Cheshire home, little did they know they were embarking on a transformative journey. Their hearts were captivated by a detached residence with impressive square footage and sprawling gardens, sparking a vision of creating an extraordinary family dwelling. Though the property was in decent condition, it lacked vibrancy. They made two significant structural improvements: converting the loft into extra rooms and removing internal walls to create an open-plan kitchen-diner.

Their renovation adventure was welldocumented Elegant panelling in the entrance hall from the start on Melissa’s Instagram account (@renovation_newbies) and on Pinterest, which served as a wellspring of inspiration. Mood boards and saved images guided their design choices, culminating in a harmonious palette with neutral walls as the canvas and accents of Farrow and Ball’s Dropcloth and Off Black.

The entrance hall underwent a remarkable transformation.

Dated textured walls were replaced with elegant panelling, and double doors made way for a modern alternative. A daring choice of a black staircase and statement chandelier greeted visitors, and herringbone floors seamlessly connected all the ground-floor spaces.

Movie zone

The family faced a layout challenge in the formal lounge, which they ultimately divided into two sections: a mature seating area around the stone open fire and a cosy ‘movie zone’. This entertainment space featured a 95-inch projector screen cleverly hidden in the 78 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

ceiling when not in use, ensuring the room maintained its clean aesthetic. For the latest in home cinema technology, the family sought guidance from the experts at Pure Theatre’s demo facility in Telford. This resulted in a concealed cinema set-up with a UK-manufactured projector screen and projector lift, along with a surround sound system, including Monitor Audio inwall and in-ceiling speakers and

“A concealed cinema set-up for an immersive audiovisual experience” a REL subwoofer, creating an immersive audiovisual experience.

En suite opulence

The bar has a window to the cellar Daniel Wayman Bespoke Kitchens crafted a beautiful kitchen with two-tone cupboards, and quartz worktops added a sleek finish. A dedicated bar was incorporated into an under-utilised room, complete with a window providing a glimpse into the wine cellar. The spacious ‘boot-ility’ room featured a raised washing machine and dryer with pull-out shelves, an airing cupboard and a second dishwasher.

Bespoke shoe cupboards and a coat rack provided much-needed storage.

Structural upgrades transformed the loft into three rooms: a bedroom, en suite and storage, the en suite boasting opulence with free-standing bathtub, walk-in shower and gold fixtures. A partition wall concealed the toilet and provided towel storage.

Today the family enjoys the fruits of their labours in their stunning home, which has become a soughtafter location for photoshoots.

Bespoke storage and a view to the garden

For home audiovisual inspiration visit www.puretheatre.com

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27/10/2023 13:25

HOMES & INTERIORS

TREE EXPERTS UNCOVER A CHESHIRE SECRET

After 560 years the truth about this ancient family home has emerged – thanks to a team of scientific researchers with a very specific skill

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he half-timbered entrance to Churton Hall, in the Cheshire village of Churton, is one of its most distinctive features. But it now turns out it has been misleading historians for centuries.

The house, which has been in the Barnston family for generations, is described as “a building of outstanding architectual and historial significance”. It was believed to have been built in 1569 – the date inscribed above the imposing oak door. But Alison Arnold and Robert Howard of the Nottingham Tree-Ring Dating Laboratory have examined a number of timbers in the Hall and discovered evidence that the building may date back more than a hundred years earlier, to 1461. Parts of the original structure of the cruck-framed hall house – a cruck or crook is a curved timber support – are from oak trees that were planted in 1390 and felled for timber 70 years later, it emerges.

Tree-ring analysis is a scientific method of accurately dating wood, and Alison and Robert are professional dendrochronologists who specialise in the technique. Robert said: “We took samples from the cruck structure of the house and interpretation suggests that these timbers were cut as part of a single episode of felling in 1461. The results indicate that the earliest part of the present house dates to the middle years of the 15th century.”

Past lives

In 1461, Edward IV was King of England and civil wars – the infamous Wars of the Roses – were raging over control of the throne.

The half-timbered entrance A hidden underfloor cellar carved from sandstone, with steps and a bench, has also been discovered at the house, used during this tumultuous period.

Kirsty Henderson, of Henderson Heritage, carried out a

Churton Hall: about to begin a new chapter

detailed assessment of the Grade-II listed Hall. She said its significance “is derived from its historical association with the Barnston family, the remarkable survival of its cruck frame and wattle and daub, the discovery of service doors, the high-quality aesthetic and historic appearance of the 16th-century box frame and other associated features, including the walled garden.

“The analysis suggests it is an Elizabethan structure that retains an earlier timber core. The house is highly decorative. It is possible it may have been of manorial status and the centre of

“I feel honoured to be the current Barnston in charge of protecting this wonderful historic house for future generations”

administration during the medieval period, used as a court for legal, business and other matters of importance.”

Family fortune

Estate manager Ed Barnston said: “Churton Hall has been in our family since the 14th century, gifted in 1569 as a wedding present to William Barnston and his wife Elizabeth. Their initials are on the front porch. William’s grandson Robert was possibly the last Barnston to live at the Hall and then it was a working farm for a few hundred years. Now a new chapter is being written with the heritage-led regeneration of this wonderful historic house.

“The house will be carefully subdivided into two, restored to retain the Elizabethan and Victorian character. Each will have separate gardens that retain the historic piggery yards, sties and troughs as well as the boundary walls.” He added: “I feel honoured to be the current Barnston in charge of protecting this wonderful historic house for future generations.”

Through the ages

Churton is part of the Barnston estate, one of “One of Cheshire’s oldest family estates, which includes Cheshire’s land in and around the villages of Churton, oldest Farndon and Hapsford. It is thought the village estates” was formed from two 11th-12th century settlements: Churton by Aldford and Churton

by Farndon, with Pump Lane (where the Hall is situated) forming an ecclesiastical boundary with Knowl Lane and Hob Lane. In 2015, the civil parishes of Churton by Aldford, Churton by Farndon and Edgerley were abolished and incorporated into Churton civil parish.

The hall is instantly recognisable in this old print

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 81

HOMES & INTERIORS

INTRODUCING SHIRE’S LATEST SCREEN STAR

Television audiences got a peek inside one of the patch’s most beautiful historic homes when Shropshire’s Walcot Hall estate featured in the Channel 4 hit series Extraordinary Escapes

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alcot Hall welcomed camera crews and celebrity guests for the filming of a new series of Extraordinary Escapes, the hit TV programme that features holiday hideaways across the country. The show is presented by Sandi Toksvig and in each episode she is joined by a fellow comedian to explore the delights of the UK’s wildest, most remote and beautifully designed boltholes, from castles to barns to campervans.

“The shop dates back to the 1840s and makes a quirky holiday cottage” In the Walcot episode, Sandi and comic Rosie Jones are seen enjoying a stay in the Wheelwright’s Shop on the Walcot Hall estate.

Sandi tells viewers how it is an original wheelwright’s Rosie and Sandi visit the chapel workshop that dates back to the 1840s, rebuilt by owners Lucinda and Robin Parish as a quirky holiday cottage.

Secret preparations

Having been sworn to secrecy about the filming, which took place last year, it is only now the episode has aired that the Parishes are allowed to talk about their experience.

Robin said: “Sandi and Rosie arrived on 8th September 2022, a significant day when the news of the Queen’s passing saddened the nation. The Walcot team had been working diligently for weeks, pooling efforts to ensure everything was perfect for their visit. The team’s excitement to welcome Sandi and Rosie to Walcot was palpable.

“Countless discussions were held with the producers to determine the ideal activity for 82 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

Filming underway

them during their stay, ultimately deciding to introduce them to Frazer Picot, our esteemed resident blacksmith, who also features prominently in the show.”

Intriguing location

The programme explores the local area as well as the estate, and shows off some of the scenery and attractions that make us all proud of our region. It also acknowledged the restoration work Lucinda and Robin have been undertaking at Walcot and celebrated the history of this intriguing home.

Lucinda said: “The presence of Sandi, Rosie and the crew was an absolute delight.

They quickly developed a deep affection for the Hall and its surroundings, showering us with compliments. Sandi, in particular, remarked that we would have to endure her presence again as she intends to return.

“The Walcot team, many of whom avidly watch the show, were overjoyed when the production team reached out and requested our participation. Their excitement was contagious and fuelled their dedication to making the experience exceptional.”

The spectacular ballroom

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27/10/2023 13:30

LIGHTING THE WAY

Faced with long, dark winter evenings the cosiest house can start to feel a bit gloomy. Time for a visit to Moonlighting…

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oonlighting, a small independent retailer in the border town of Oswestry, is an Aladdin’s cave filled with the latest vibrant colours in lighting and accessories, to transform any home into a truly distinctive space. With lots of colourful floor lamps, table lamps and shades to choose from, including mix and match ranges, you’ll find all you need to brighten the darkest corners.

The shop opened its doors in 2019 but the team have over 21 years’ experience in lighting retail. They display and stock a wide variety of lighting, including pendants, semi-flush and wall lights, floor and table lamps and lampshades, and occasional furniture, along with all manner of retro-fit LED bulbs including vintage.

The recently extended showroom includes the everpopular Laura Ashley lighting and mirror collections including the new ranges of bathroom lights and outdoor Spool floor lamp £156 and table lamp £54

HELP NEEDED F

“Team with our new range of bespoke shades” Toledo table lamp £108 and floor lamp £186

particularly popular, especially teamed with our new range of bespoke shades,” they told Shire.

You’ll find Moonlighting at 37-37a Church Street, Oswestry SY11 2SZ, opposite the Cae Glas park gates – it’s a lovely spot in the traditional Shropshire market town. Open six days a week, Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm. Call 01691 725 145.

DECK THE HALLS

Who better to help introduce some contemporary Christmas styling to our homes than Cheshire’s own interiors icon, Jan Constantine

Cushions £139, bunting £135

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rtisan textile designer Jan Constantine has revealed her 2023 Christmas collection, Edelweiss. The range features everything from a Christmas tree skirt complete with mother of pearl detailing to a made-to-order throw, a bold Hanging heart decoration £39 red cushion and joyful bunting – all boasting the intricate hand-embroidery Jan is renowned for. She said: “This year’s collection was inspired by the Alps, I wanted to celebrate the flora and fauna.

Edelweiss flowers have taken centre stage and brought a real freshness.”

Combining her experience in fashion design and interior styling, Jan launched her eponymous brand 21 years ago. Since then, her bold designs have become instantly recognisable as exquisite textiles and home accessories that stand alone in the interiors market. m Each piece has been designed as an sto ckin g £75 heirloom of the future, and all are made from quality natural cottons, wools and linens.

All products are available from www.janconstantine.com irl He

oo

arming families in Wales face huge barriers when it comes to providing housing for future generations due to current planning policies.

Recognising that “farming isn’t just about business, it’s about families too”, local planning consultancy Roger Parry & Partners Richard Corbett of Roger Parry took the opportunity to & Partners, speaking at the CLA raise the issue at this year’s Next Generation reception Royal Welsh Show.

The firm hosted a workshop in the CLA Cymru pavilion to discuss housing on farms, addressing an issue that is vital for agricultural businesses to survive.

“It’s an In-house planning consultants issue that Richard Corbett, Gerallt Davies is vital for and Gail Jenkins were joined agricultural

by Sioned Davies, planning and businesses environment barrister from No5 to survive” Barristers Chambers and Caryl Haf, former Wales YFC chair.

Richard Corbett, partner at Roger Parry & Partners said, “We’re aware of a massive problem in Wales where housing is needed for farming families but farms face huge barriers to provide that housing. We want to take things further and make the discussion more important in planning policies and government proposals.”

lighting.

“This season, our selection of locally made wooden table lamp bases are proving

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 85

SHOW HOMES NOW OPEN

ALLSCOTT MEADS SHROPSHIRE TF6 5FD Stunning new homes ranging from one-through to five-bedrooms available

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26/10/2023 17:58

HOMES & INTERIORS

A vibrant new community for Shropshire

Homes can be personalised with your own choice of cupboards, floors and storage

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llscott Meads is a vibrant new community being built by SJ Roberts Homes in the beautiful Shropshire countryside between Telford and Shrewsbury. Once completed in 2026, it will offer 470 homes, ranging from one- through to five-bedroom houses, as well as bungalows. With over 200 of the homes already occupied, and the new primary school having welcomed its first pupils in September, it’s no wonder that the launch weekend for phase 2 welcomed record numbers of interested purchasers.

Allscott Meads is steeped in history, having been the former home of a sugar beet factory that stood in the village of Allscott for over 80 years before closing in 2007. British Sugar, which ran the factory, had a vision for the site to be transformed into a thriving community that would segue seamlessly with the existing population of 300 residents. When SJ Roberts Homes purchased the land and committed to its total development, it ensured a cohesive and comprehensive approach to its development that wouldn’t have been achieved via multiple developers.

Already, the community benefits from a stunning landscape scheme that caters to residents’ needs for play, biodiversity, and visually attractive public open spaces. There’s a perimeter nature trail, a community orchard, a play area and outdoor gym equipment, and a pair of lagoon ponds with shingle beaches. Over 500 new trees have been planted, along with bee-friendly shrubs.

Aesthetically, Allscott Meads is being developed to create a village that feels like it has evolved naturally over time. Indeed, SJ Roberts’ in-house architectural design team took inspiration from Duke of Sutherland designs that are commonplace in

The development has attracted record interest

nearby villages including Tibberton, Walcot and Admaston. Each home – whether for private or social occupancy – offers ample space, diverse boundary designs, mixed roof heights, and unique exterior finishes.

The wider community of Allscott not only benefits from the new primary school that recently opened, but also now has access

“A cohesive approach delivers unrivalled levels of quality” Designs are spacious and individual

to a modern sports and social club which includes new sports pitches for community use. In 2024, up to five businesses will have the chance to locate in the new commercial units currently under construction at Allscott Meads.

Project of the Year

Plenty of opportunities exist to personalise a home at Allscott Meads with options including kitchen cupboard doors, flooring, and storage. Upgrades are also available, depending on house type and build stage.

Earlier this year, Allscott Meads was named ‘Placemaking Project of the Year’ at the Midlands Business Insider Residential Property Awards. Whilst this was undoubtedly due in part to the attention to detail that has been placed on the aesthetics of the development, along with its environmental and communal attributes, its delivery by SJ Roberts Homes cannot be overlooked.

Part of the wider SJ Roberts group, the Homes team works alongside colleagues in SJ Roberts Construction, as well as Lowfield Timber Frames. All architectural design aspects are also managed in-house. The result is a cohesive approach to design, build and overall development that delivers unrivalled levels of quality.

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 87

HOMES & INTERIORS

FEEL THE HEAT

to use air control, it’s easy to see why the Heta Inspire by Fitz Woodburners & Stoves is one of RN Williams’ most popular stoves. This highly efficient, stylish design fits comfortably into almost any setting, free-standing or a traditional fireplace. A perfect choice for those cosy nights in this winter. RRP £1,499.

Onyx Avanti 150 Electric Fire

Charnwood Haven

The Onyx Avanti 150 has multiple flame settings

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new generation of stoves and electric fires on display at RN Williams & Sons of St Asaph integrate smart technology with contemporary styling.

Charnwood Haven 5 cook stove

Charming and functional, the Charnwood Haven is a new compact wood-fired cooker from Charnwood Charnwood Haven Stoves that has been designed for cabins and small homes. From cakes to roasts, the cooking options are endless thanks to its integrated thermometer which allows for greater temperature control and cooking accuracy.

RRP £3,900

Heta Inspire 45 multifuel stove Heta Inspire 45

With its simple design, large viewing window, excellent efficiency and easy

THE TWEEDMILL GETS AN ECO BOOST

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With its captivating flame effects, the Gazco Onyx Avanti offers an unrivalled electric fire experience. Designed to work with your style and décor, this inset design is available in three sizes, has multiple flame and lighting options as well as featuring true-tolife glowing fuel effects.

Controlling your electric fire couldn’t be simpler with the Avanti app or remote control, as well as a thermostatic control that enables your Avanti Onyx to adjust its power to reach your desired room temperature as efficiently as possible. RRP £2,395.

Richmond Deluxe D100EI Zoneless Range Cooker

Combining the latest induction technology with style, the Stoves Richmond Deluxe Zoneless Range Cooker will speed up your cooking times as well as cut your energy bills. The Zoneless induction hob can accommodate Richmond Deluxe up to six pans of any size on its full surface cooking area. Additional impressive features include 13 setting multifunction oven, slow cook oven, TrueTemp digital thermostat and the steam and infuse function, making the Stoves Richmond Deluxe Zoneless Range Cooker is a flexible, efficient and stylish choice for your kitchen. RRP £4,358.

RN Williams & Sons showroom is open Monday–Friday 8.30am5pm, Saturday 8.30am-5pm at Station Yard, Chester Street, St Asaph LL17 0RE. Contact 01745 582 254. www.rnwilliams.co.uk

n response to the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions, Tweedmill Shopping Outlet, located in St Asaph, North Wales, undertook a significant step to reduce its environmental footprint and embrace renewable energy. Shire spoke to experts JM Renewable Solutions about the new installation: “The owner of Tweedmill approached us with Tweedmill: state of the art a simple brief: they wanted to invest in sustainable “200,000 energy by installing a state-of-the-art solar panel kWh of free installation process began with the careful mounting and positioning of the solar panels on the roof of system on the roof. We conducted a thorough site electricity Tweedmill. Our experienced in-house installation assessment to determine the optimal placement of every year” team worked to ensure that each panel was securely the solar panels.

This assessment mounted and aligned to capture maximum sunlight considered throughout the day. The installation was executed factors such as sun exposure, with minimal disruption to the shopping outlet’s operations, thanks to meticulous planning and coordination with the roof integrity and structural Tweedmill management.” compatibility.

“Our in-house team of The results have been impressive. The system is estimated to produce approximately 200,000 kWh of free electricity annually. experts designed a bespoke system that incorporated This substantial energy production not only significantly reduces Tweedmill’s reliance on traditional energy sources, but leads to the 666 solar panels across the roof structure. The estimated carbon savings of 40.3 tonnes each year.

Impressive results

88 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

Charities&Volunteering PEDAL POWER

Clwb Seiclo in training

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welve members of Ruthin Cycling Club (Clwb Seiclo Rhuthun) tackled the Eryri/ Snowdonia 360-mile challenge in aid of Wales Air Ambulance.

Led by organiser Gary Owen,

“£8 million to keep four helicopters” the riders are aiming to raise over £5,000 for the charity, which needs £8million a year to keep its four helicopters in the

sky, so help can be anywhere in the country in 20 minutes (see www.walesairambulance.com).

The 360 challenge navigated spectacular scenery, beginning in Ruthin and taking in Bala, the Llyn Peninsula, Anglesey and the North Wales coast.

“The charity is close to all our hearts, covering every mile of Wales, day in day out, delivering life-saving care to people of all ages,” said Gary. “They really need our support.” It’s not too late to donate at www. justgiving.com/fundraising/

ARE YOU SITTING COMFORTABLY…?

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alented students put their skills to imaginative use for children at Victoria Community Primary School, Wrexham. The learners at Coleg Cambria’s Bersham Road site created and shaped a ‘storytime chair’ for pupils to enjoy during outdoor lessons and break times.

As part of their regular Among the School Links group were School Links sessions Keegan Hargreaves and Oliver Lewis from Ysgol y Grango, Timothy Roberts and with Cambria’s Carpentry Finnley Griffiths from Ysgol Rhiwabon, and Joinery department, and The Maelor School’s Luke Rowlands the group – from Ysgol y Grango, The Maelor to our community.

School and Ysgol They did an “They amazing job and it Rhiwabon – also built was heartening to three benches and a did an installed a planter. amazing see such a positive reaction from the Tutor Stuart job” children and staff.

Kennedy said: “We I’d like to thank wanted to showcase enrichment college link officer the skills of these talented Alex Smith for all his support.” learners while also giving back

BEAMING WITH PRIDE

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young teen from Oswestry who was selected as the winner of a Pride-themed T-shirt competition at Shropshire’s specialist orthopaedic hospital has now seen their design brought to life.

To celebrate Pride Olivia Evans, improvement lead at month, the Robert RJAH, and Stacey Keegan, ceo Jones and Agnes Hunt strength and how they work Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH) held a design together to achieve success. competition for children of Maggie, who is 13, said: “I was shocked but grateful to win. staff. Maggie, granddaughter It will be nice to see my design of Roe Walsh, an operating displayed in my local hospital.” department practitioner, Stacey Keegan, ceo, said: was selected as the winner

by Shropshire, Telford “It was great to see so many and Wrekin Integrated fantastic entries and welcome children to get involved Care System “There with our celebrations.

LGBTQIA+ and Friends Network. were so The winning design is incredible. I’m proud to Her rainbow many lion design was it to help promote fantastic display inspired by a pride the message of inclusivity entries” across the hospital.” of lions, their

From land to water

5.25 miles is 169 lengths of an Olympic pool!

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Kate, who was recently Chester landscape architect recently swam the length appointed Chair of Landscape of Coniston Water in the Lake Institute Wales said: “I love open-water swimming. I started District to raise money for a North Wales charity after watching a friend compete in the Deva for young athletes.

“A Kate Richards, Triathlon. He swam in gruelling the Dee, and I stood associate at Land Studio, trained hard 5.25-mile on Queen’s Suspension for the gruelling Bridge cheering him swim” on, thinking: “I’d love 5.25-mile openwater swim. She to swim in there too.” raised vital funds for the True www.trueventure.org Venture Foundation, which If you would like a charity improves opportunities for event to feature on these pages, children and young people just email the details to from North Wales who want to engage competitively

editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 89

For All ‘Your Sleep Matters’

We are stockist of the SleepSense brands of Bedding & Pillows & have a great selection in our Newport Beds showroom Special Offer throughout November & December – 20% off all SleepSense Brands Bedding & Pillows

Newport Beds, Unit 1 Springfield Industrial Estate, Newport, Shropshire, TF10 7NB Email us at: beds@carpetloom.com Call Us on : 01952 820401 option 2 Find us at www.newportbeds.co.uk

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‘Your Sleep Matters’… Making Sense of Bedding & Sleep you whilst you sleep such as house mites & mould spores that may be in or around your mattress. A simple solution here is to switch to bedding made from non-allergen fibres & with an absolute must of applying a mattress protector to the bed so these bugs cannot set up home in your mattress Moisture wicking Bedding and pillows that wick away moisture can help to reduce sweat and keep you comfortable throughout the night. Cotton is one of the best fabrics for this so cotton blends are popular. High Polyester thread counts can hold heat so blended contents can avoid this

It’s a well-documented fact your mattress and bed effect your sleep and subsequently your well-being. But have you thought about the bedding you sleep upon & how this is just as essential to what mattress you sleep upon, how it enhances your well-being, its ability to provide a comfortable surface to lie on as well as helping to regulate the temperature of your body?

A comfortable mattress, pillow and bedding is the ultimate combination when it comes to reducing pressure points, increasing comfort and keeping the body in a neutral position to sleep in. This not only helps with better quality sleep but it can also prevent pain and discomfort that can so often disrupt getting a good night’s sleep.

According to many experts on sleep and sleep accessory companies such as SLEEPSENSE, one thing they all agree on is bedding is an essential part of your sleep environment. As bed providers, we only buy in ranges from companies such as Sleepsense, as they really know their stuff when it comes to bedding, pillows and sleep. We have learnt lots from them as to which ones are really beneficial to your sleep experience Here are ten very good reasons why bedding and pillows need careful consideration Comfort Bedding and pillows should provide a comfortable and soft surface for the body to rest on, with the purpose of reducing pressure points and promoting a good night’s sleep.

Support Pillows support not just the head & neck but also the spine too, helping to maintain proper alignment while sleeping & experts agree this is important for spinal health. There are 24 vertebrae in the human spine of which 7 are in the neck. It’s true to say where you lay your head is just as important as to where you lay your body.

Temperature regulation Good quality bedding and pillows can assist towards regulating body temperature, helping to keep you cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Fabric choice is a key consideration & Bamboo blends are now leading at the forefront due its thermo-regulating properties. It makes it an all-round seasonal winner & is making its way into many bedding accessories & even onto mattress tic clothes too Allergy protection Hypoallergenic bedding and pillows can certainly reduce the risk of allergies and irritations, leading to a better night’s sleep. Whilst it will not cure all your allergies it will help keep allergens away from

Reduce fidgeting, tossing and turning A comfortable bed and pillow can reduce the need to constantly adjust your position, leading to a more restful sleep. In the West we sleep with ‘Hot Head, Cold Feet’ whilst we really need to sleep with ‘Cool Head, Warm Feet’. Cooling pillows can help with this with these having gel infused fabrics to provide a cool sleeping surface. For those hot sleepers searching for the coolest part of the bed, bedding with cooling properties & smart temperature regulating fibres can make a significant difference here Reduces snoring Proper pillow support can help reduce snoring by keeping airways open. Wedge pillows can reduce snoring by elevating your upper body.

This reduces the tendency of gravity to pull your airway closed, so you can breathe more easily and more quietly. Realignment pillows work by holding your head at the right height to keep your airway straight.

Some Smart pillows have sound sensors.

Promotes deep sleep Quality bedding and pillows can improve the quality of deep sleep, leading to a more rested and refreshed feeling in the morning. Buying them fit for purpose will prevent any over purchasing especially when buying pillows. Some people do keep buying until they find the right one so before heading to buy one just have a think about what you want your pillow to do for you whilst it may feel comfortable at first impression the fabric may not be the best for you or your sleeping position Longevity Investing in good quality bedding and pillows can extend their life and maintain their comfort and support over time. As mentioned above copious buying of poor-quality fabrics with no thought about purpose means you will get through many pillows in your life time. Our bodies do change shape however so its always good to check in & see if your pillow is still giving you the comfort & support you require. If not then head out & find something that does Improves mental health A good night’s sleep has been linked to improved mental health and overall well-being. Bedding and pillows play a crucial role in achieving this. Soft and comfortable bedding can enhance our sleep comfort. Not to mention it can reduce sleep disruptions, allowing us to wake up feeling rejuvenated and refreshed and can positively impact our mood, emotional well-being, and cognitive function.

Here at Newport Beds, ‘Your Sleep Matters’ to us as much as it does to you so when it comes to bedding and sleep, we’ve really honed in on the wellness & health benefits to complement our mattress & bed collections, so do give us a call or visit our showroom next time you are looking to upgrade your bedding, no matter what it is.

Unit 1 Springfield Industrial Estate, Newport, Shropshire TF10 7NB 01952 820401 Option 2 Beds@carpetloom.com | www.newportbeds.co.uk

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GARDEN SHOPPING

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Welcome home

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Set the scene for festive guests with a glittering wreath for the door – or have fun creating your own!

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Gisela Graham Red Roses wreath £59.99, The Old Railway Line Garden Centre, Brecon; www.oldrailwaylinegc.co.uk 2. Kent & Stowe garden scissors £4.99, Jacksons Nurseries, Staffordshire; www.jacksonsnurseries.co.uk 3. Wilkinson Sword telescopic bypass loppers £38.50, Wynnstay Stores; www.wynnstay.co.uk 4. Gardeners Mate soft grip secateurs £6.99, Bents, Warrington; www.bents.co.uk 5. Oakham jute wreath £59.99, Bents, as above 6. Champagne glitter fern decoration £2.99, Charlies Home & Garden, Welshpool; www.charlies.co.uk 7. Oasis 23cm floral foam ring £7.50, Hobbycraft; www.hobbycraft.co.uk 8. Jingles mistletoe heart wreath £16.99, Charlies Home & Garden, as above 9. White-washed pinecones £4, Hobbycraft, as above 10. Chrome Santa wreath hanger £10, British Ironworks, Oswestry; www.britishironworkcentre.co.uk 11. Pampas & bauble wreath £19.99, The Range; www.therange.co.uk 12. Red wreath decoration box £2.99, The Range, as above 13. Kent & Stowe Jersey cotton grip gloves £3.95, Shawbury Garden Centre, Shrewsbury; www.shawburygardencentre.co.uk 14. Copper mesh ribbon roll £4.99, Bents, as above 15. Red velvet artificial poinsettia stem £3.99, The Old Railway Line Garden Centre, as above 16. Copper wire frame pack £6.95, Shawbury Garden Centre, as above

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92 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

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BATHROOMS • WETROOMS • ENSUITES • KITCHENS • BEDROOMS

Ready to transform your kitchen or bathroom?

Need help with your project?

At The Design Studio Ltd, located in Colwyn Bay – we strive to provide luxury, quality bathrooms, kitchens and bedrooms where our fully qualified team can help with your project from beginning to end, from designing your space to overseeing the whole job.

We don’t sell off the shelf and we pride ourselves in our bespoke design quality and

01492 541540

www.theglobaldesignstudioltd.com Unit 4 Falcon Estate, Eagle Farm Road, Mochdre Business Park, Mochdre, Colwyn Bay LL28 5HB

theglobaldesignstudioltd @theglobaldesignstudioltd

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trade knowledge, ensuring your new room is exactly what you want aesthetically and practically.

All our staff love welcoming customers – whether you just need advice on tiling a fireplace or renovating a whole room, so pop into the showroom for a browse and a chat!

Finance available Buy now, pay monthly

The Global Design Studio LTD is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Ideal Sales Solutions Ltd, t/a ldeal4Finance.

Ideal Sales Solutions is a credit broker and not a lender (FRN 703401 ). Finance available subject to status. The rate offered is always provisional and will depend upon your personal circumstances, the loan amount and the term.

SEE IF YOUR ELIGIBLE ON WWW.IDEAL4FINANCE.COM/GLOBAL-DESIGN OR FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.IDEAL4FINANCE.COM There are risks involved in taking out a loan and you should ensure you can make all payments on time and in full; failure to do so can lead to financial difficulties and have a negative impact on your credit score.

26/10/2023 17:57

Welcome to your new look Vashon Close

Parys Road Baker Close

Corfield Road

New leading trade kitchen & joinery supplier

NOW OPEN

Corfield Road Ludlow SY8 1FH 01584 759 347

Find us inside

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HOME SHOPPING

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Glorious gold

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Get ready to host with fabulous homeware 1.

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Ancient Mariner Ellie Chesterfield in gold velvet £979, Hafren Furnishers; www.hafrenfurnishers.co.uk 2. Grey metal and wood mix wall clock £199, Make Your House A Home, Whitchurch; www.makeyourhouseahomewhitchurch.com 3. Gold framed mirror £170.01, The Silver Pear, Ludlow; silverpear.co.uk 4. Bronte Milan lambswool throw £95, Meirion Mill, Powys; www.meirionmill.co.uk 5. Gold arch floor lamp £189, Make Your House a Home, as above 6. Ewemoo sheep foot stool in Golden Mist £130, Ewemoo, Swansea; www.ewemoo.co.uk 7. Jingles gold wicker cone Christmas tree set £19.99, Charlies Stores Ltd, Welshpool; www.charlies.co.uk 8. Sara Miller Pine Forest premium Christmas crackers £25 for six, John Lewis; www.johnlewis.com 9. Viners Titan 5-piece gold knife set & stand £52.25, Colour Supplies, Oswestry; www.coloursupplies.com 10. BarCraft cocktail set £30.49, The Range; www.therange.co.uk 11. Gold Leaves pear drop glass bauble £2.29, Charlies Stores Ltd, as above 12. White and gold mug £10.50, Love Roobarb, Bridgnorth; www.loveroobarb.co.uk 13. Handmade ceramic match pot in Rusty Gold £20, Mostyn, Llandudno; shop.mostyn.org 14. Christmas Deer napkin holders £8.99, The Range, as above

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November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 95

Plants&Gardens

Tree talk

It’s coming up to that time of year again when we decide to bring a large tree indoors and decorate it! We’ve rounded up some of the options for this curious but comforting Christmas tradition.

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hoosing the Christmas tree is a cherished tradition in many Shire households, adding a festive atmosphere to the holiday preparations. Let us give you a helping hand with a look at the species commonly on sale – and for those who aren’t keen on cut trees, we’ve included fake trees and living trees in pots too.

Cons Like the Norway spruce, they are prone to needle shedding. Regular watering and care are essential to maintain their appearance.

Nordmann fir – perhaps the most popular

Pros Fake trees can be used for several years, making them cost-effective in the long run.

They don’t make a mess, or need watering.

And they come in various shapes and sizes, pre-lit and unlit, so you’ve lots of choice.

Cons Environmental impact – most fake trees are made from non-biodegradable materials like plastic and metal. And some people miss the authentic scent and appearance of a real tree.

Pros Known for their excellent needle retention, meaning they will stay fresh and attractive throughout the holiday season.

They’re also low maintenance, and the soft, non-prickly needles are safe for children and pets.

Cons They can be more expensive than other options, and they’re not native to the UK, which may deter some.

Norway spruce – a traditional choice Pros A classic Christmas tree appearance with vibrant foliage and a lovely scent.

Cons They are notorious for shedding needles, and also demand regular watering to keep them looking their best.

Popular Nordmann As es aute re eat

Scots pine – native to the UK

Pros Choosing a Scots Pine supports local biodiversity and reduces the carbon footprint associated with transport.They’re also charming, with long, slender needles.

Traditional spruce

Finders keepers If you do opt for a real tree, make sure it stays fresh and vibrant throughout the holiday season by following these tips…

• Select a healthy tree by checking for green, flexible needles. Avoid trees with dry, brown needles.

Artificial trees – gaining popularity due to their convenience

Living trees in pots – the benefits of a real tree without cutting it down

Pros Sustainability – you can replant the tree after the holidays, reducing waste and contributing positively to the environment.

Add a unique, eco-friendly tradition to your holiday celebrations.

Cons Potted trees are heavy to transport.

Plus, keeping a living tree healthy year-round may require more effort than a cut tree.

Prefer to fake it?

Scots pines are native

A new tradition?

Did you know?

• Before placing in a stand, make a fresh, straight cut at the base to expose a clean surface for water absorption.

40 percent of • Use a sturdy stand with a large water reservoir. people like to put up more than Check the water level daily and keep topped up one tree! to ensure the tree never dries out. Freshly cut trees can absorb a lot of water, so be prepared to refill the stand regularly, especially at first.

“Freshly • Position away from radiators, fireplaces and direct sun. A cut trees can absorb consistent room temperature will also extend its freshness.

• Be gentle when decorating to avoid breaking branches. a lot of • Turn off tree lights when you leave the house or go to bed water” to reduce the risk of electrical fires.

96 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

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Shropshire’s Leading Independent Timber Merchants

G.S & P.A Reeves are a family operated business – the largest independent timber merchants in the county. Based in Wem, just north of Shrewsbury, we’re near to Staffordshire, Mid Wales and the West Midlands and are committed to offering high quality, individual solutions to our clients.

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PLANTS & GARDENS

STEP OUTSIDE FOR FESTIVE INSPIRATION

With Christmas almost upon us, it’s time to deck the halls and spruce up the house! The garden can be a great source of ideas and free resources, point out the experts from Reaseheath College.

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ith earthy tones a key colour trend for 2023, and woodland vibes remaining popular, many of us will be turning to our gardens for decorating inspiration this Christmas. There’s no better way of sharing the spirit of goodwill with visitors and passers-by than by dressing up your front door with a wreath.

Most of the materials can be foraged from your beds and borders or during a country walk, so search out evergreen foliage, if possible with berries, and moss, fir cones and conkers. Repurpose baubles, ribbon, festive sweets and dried “Forage fruit and you have the ingredients for borders for a cost-effective and sustainable wreath.

For tips on how to construct your evergreen masterpiece you can watch videos online foliage” or have fun with others at a local class.

As for dressing up the interior of your house, now’s the time to prepare indoor plants to flower in time for Christmas. Hyacinths, hippeastrum and narcissi will fill your rooms with fragrance, while poinsettia, cyclamen and orchids add Plant tulips now for a spring display splashes of colour. Indoor

Bright blooms for winter It might seem like the garden has gone into hibernation, but these resilient plants dare to defy the winter chill

Winter jasmine Winter jasmine is a hardy shrub with bright yellow, star-shaped flowers that can bloom from late autumn through winter.

Prune it after flowering to maintain its shape, and provide support for its trailing branches.

Cyclamen Cyclamen’s delicate, swept-

back petals and marbled foliage make it a charming winter choice. It comes in various colours, including shades of pink, red and white.

Place it in a cool, well-lit area and allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.

98 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

plants also make great gifts – and you’ve the pleasure of choosing the container and plant to suit the recipient!

Keep at it

TOP TIP

Leaf mould is a great soil improver and is very easy to make. Pack damp leaves in a black bin liner, tie it up and pierce the bag a few times.

Store for a year and the mould will be crumbly, brown and ready to use as a top dressing for flowering plants.

Meanwhile, there are still plenty of gardening jobs awaiting our attention: • Remove all perennial weeds from beds and borders. It will make life easier come spring.

• Cut back faded perennials and mulch beds with compost.

Don’t waste those fallen leaves!

• Plant tulip bulbs to a depth of about three times their height.

• Clear up fallen leaves, especially from lawns, ponds and paths.

• Raise pots off the ground by using bricks or ‘pot feet’, to prevent waterlogging. Move alpine plants under cover to shelter them from rain.

• Plant pot-grown and bare-root fruit bushes before the worst of the weather sets in.

Tips and inspiration from the floristry and horticulture teams at Reaseheath College in Feed your friends Nantwich, Cheshire www.reaseheath.ac.uk

Mahonia Also known as Oregon grape holly, mahonia boasts fragrant yellow flowers in December, followed by blue-black berries. Its spiky evergreen leaves provide year-round interest. Plant it in moist, well-draining soil and prune to shape if necessary.

Winter-flowering heather A low-growing shrub covered in tiny, bell-shaped flowers that can range from white to pink. Plant it in well-drained acidic soil and trim the faded flower spikes to encourage more blooms.

Snowdrops The harbingers of spring, snowdrops

often appear in December with their pure white, drooping flowers. Plant them in partial shade and they will naturalise over time, forming lovely drifts.

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Teresa’s Boutique

started my business in October 2019. It was pre covid in the Darwin centre. It was a complete change of direction for me due to a change in personal circumstances I had to close in the March of 2020 and carried out a caring role for a year. I opened again after Covid in April 2021. The Darwin shopping centre were really good to me and extremely supportive, they encouraged me to set up the business really.

The business grew and developed out of all bounds. More than I could have imagined. I sell beautiful classic pieces that look good in your wardrobe today, tomorrow and in five years time. I specialise in wedding outfits, racing outfits, ladies who cruise and just like to look and feel fabulous !

I have a great customer following who have supported me through the pandemic, floods and closures! Since I’ve opened on the High Street the welcome has been just wonderful, especially from all my neighbours and the all the independents on Wyle cop.

45 High Street is just such a perfect location to be in. My immediate neighbour is Halons the menswear shop and we seem to compliment each other nicely, the gents go next door and the ladies come to me so everyone’s happy!

We offer a truly personal service to our customers when they visit us , we want them to look and feel fantastic when they leave, whatever their age, shape or size! I have two wonderful ladies helping me and I call them my angels, I’m blessed to have them and they’re both called Karen which makes life easier for everyone!!

I also have just had a fashion show in October and raised over £600 for climbing out charity. I have two shows per year, with one in spring to show the spring/summer collection and one in October to showcase the autumn/winter collections. The models are all good friends of mine, they showcase the collection perfectly, real women of all different shapes and sizes! Exactly what our customers want to see Please pop and see us - you’ll always get a warm welcome, some laughs and an opportunity to try on some fabulous clothes.

Teresa x Email teresa@teresasboutique.com Phone 07849 680 234 teresasboutiqueshrewsbury teresas_boutique_shrewsbury Web www.teresasboutique.com Address 45 High Street, Shrewsbury SY11ST Opening hours Sunday - Closed Monday - Saturday: 9.30-17.00

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Classic & Timeless well chosen pieces to be worn over and over again

A boutique selling an edited collection of clothes, accessories, and gifts, the team are passionate about bringing you only the most special and gorgeous pieces from across the UK and the world.

Here you’ll find a carefully selected collection for every kind of woman, including pieces

by Barlioche /Tinta Tia, Alison, Marble, Robell Trousers, K Design Dorris stretch

Open Monday - Saturday 9.30am - 17.00 pm

45 High Street, Shrewsbury SY1 1ST Phone: 07849 680 234 Email: teresa@teresasboutique.com

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FASHION

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Dubarry Tollymore travel holdall bag £379, Outdoor & Country; www.outdoorandcountry.co.uk 2. Barbour Powell quilted jacket £179, Vaughan Davies, Mold; www.vaughandavies.co.uk 3. Clogau Classic Timeless steel watch £360, Anna Davies, Betws-y-Coed; www.annadavies.co.uk 4. Le Chameau licence & card wallet gift set £65, Outdoor & Country, as above 5. Weird Fish Broxton check shirt £34.99, Charlies Home & Garden, Welshpool; www.charlies.co.uk 6. Falke dot socks £16, Peppers Menswear & Ladieswear, Church Stretton; www.peppersfashion.co.uk 7. Wrendale Stag water bottle £25.99, Anna Davies, as above 8. Erdö Adventure Journal £10 for three, MOOand BOOM, Whitchurch; www.mooandboom.com 9. Chelsea Peers fluffy dressing gown £42, John Lewis; www.johnlewis.com 10. Thomas Kosmala No 4. Après l’amour eau de parfum £136.95 for 100ml, The Range; www.therange.co.uk 11. Montane Fury fleece gloves £30, Summit to Sea, Holyhead; www.summittosea.co.uk 12. Birkenstock mule clogs £90, Pavers; www.pavers.co.uk 13. Hoggs of Fife Stanley semi-brogue boots £124.95, Cherry Tree Country Clothing, Ruthin; www.cherrytreecountryclothing.com 14. Jack Pyke Ashcombe zip pullover £39.99, Charlies Home & Garden, as above

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Gifts she’ll treasure

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Festive favourites to make shopping easy this Christmas!

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The Bridge tan leather handbag £375, Douglas Attire, Ludlow; www.douglasattire.com 2. ChloBo Silver Lucky Star hoop earrings £69, Mococo, Deeside; www.mococo.co.uk 3. Henry London Richmond watch £165, Anna Davies, Betws-y-Coed; www.annadavies.co.uk 4. Jozefa knit £115, Abi Fisher, Cheshire; www.abifisher.co.uk 5. Tailored Duster coat £231 (sale price), Olivia May, Cheshire; www.oliviamay.org 6. Rambler Trilby waxed hat £26.95, Cherry Tree Country Clothing, Denbighshire; www.cherrytreecountryclothing.com 7. Barbour beanie & scarf gift set £54.95, Charlies Home & Garden, Welshpool; www.charlies.co.uk 8. Find Your Glow peony & blush suede candle £25, Anna Davies, as above 9. Barbour Ada dressing gown £89.95, Peppers Menswear & Ladieswear, Church Stretton; www.peppersfashion.co.uk 10. Chanel No. 5 eau de parfum £99.99 for 50ml, The Range; www.therange.co.uk 11. Cosy full slippers £24.99, Pavers; www.pavers.co.uk 12. Dubarry Downpatrick boots £279, Outdoor & Country; www.outdoorandcountry.co.uk 13. Harth dark chocolate & peanut truffles £8.10, MOOand BOOM, Whitchurch; www.mooandboom.com 14. Cashmere blend socks £19.95, Peppers, as above

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Arts&Crafts AFONWEN CRAFTS 2nd-3rd & 22nd24th November, Jackie at Jewels Jackie has been busy putting extra pieces of handmade jewellery into her collection for the festive season.

4th & 5th November, Stef Nicoll Local artist Stef paints mainly in oils, her inspiration found on walks in Snowdonia.

Another day in paradise Sally Mills, from North Wales, has taken a life surrounded by nature and used it to carve out a global career in art and photography

world led to an awe-inspiring opportunity when they were invited to manage the prestigious Aride Island nature reserve in the Seychelles.

This unique experience later became the subject of Sally’s successful memoir, Island to Island.

7th November, Cross-stitch by Carol Cushions and pictures, cards and decorations.

11th & 12th November, Gill Benjamin A popular artist here, Gill will have many of her lovely paintings on display.

14th November, Joy Williams at HFT Dyffryn Designs Supporting adults with learning disabilities.

15th November, Liz at MagpieFairyCrafts Gift items using metal tape art, including notebooks, collage and more.

18th & 19th November, Thelma Evans Local artist Thelma paints pretty floral canvases.

21st November, Spinning with Jenni Frost Jenni uses wool from her own flock, and is happy to demonstrate this intriguing craft.

28th November, Crafty Sisters The ladies have been adding to their collection of handmade jewellery and gifts, and cards in English and Welsh.

1st December, Weaving with Trevor Blackburn Scarves, shawls, hats and more, made using wool, silk, alpaca and camel.

3rd December, Noodle and Norman Kate makes polymer clay jewellery, hairclips and trinket dishes, every piece unique.

9th & 10th December, Eco Silver Jewellery by Sandra Roberts 12th & 13th December, Tracey Davies Tracey takes commissions, and will have many of her portraits and paintings on display.

19th & 20th December, Marie at Earth Deva Quirky handmade gifts, some on a mythical theme.

Afonwen Craft & Antique Centre is near Mold. www.afonwen.co.uk

Reality check

Sally said: “Island to Island: Photograph Collection was born from the release of the novel. The watercolour illustrations served to whet the appetite of readers to see more about the fascinating world it portrays. The beauty of the tropics, set against the harsh reality of living in a An orange hermit crab on the move remote location without modern conveniences, ally Mills’ journey from a bucolic childhood provides an eclectic mix of visual representations in North Wales to managing a tropical of what life was really like.” nature reserve in the Seychelles is nothing short The anthology showcases remarkable images of extraordinary. Her of wildlife, landscapes and day-to-day life, all captured experience, intertwined through the lenses of with a passion for “Remarkable images seven photographers. From the natural world, of wildlife, landscapes has culminated in the self-sufficiency in extreme and day-to-day life, publication of Island conditions to monitoring all captured through to Island: Photograph seabird populations the lenses of seven on rugged terrain and Collection, a stunning photographers” visual chronicle that patrolling the island at night to ward off poachers, complements her the collection portrays the successful memoir and provides a unique glimpse into the beauty – realities of island life as never before. and challenges – of living in the Indian Ocean.

Sally now lives in Somerset, where she Born in 1967, Sally grew up surrounded by the has embraced a simpler life, running a small aquaponic enterprise supplying fresh vegetables wonders of nature. Her fascination with birds, nurtured in the Welsh countryside, led to her to the local community, and raising chickens. studying Art at Cardiff University, where she Island to Island Photograph Collection is published graduated with top honours. She later earned

by Cranthorpe Millner, price £16.99 a distinction in a postgraduate diploma in conservation management.

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Preserve and protect

Her career unfolded as she devoted 25 years to nature conservation, mainly working with the RSPB. During this time, she pioneered innovative bioenergy initiatives, cementing her commitment to sustainability.

Sally’s partner, Melvyn, introduced her to the world of property renovation and together they embarked on various adventures, from building nature reserves to renovating houses. Their shared work ethic and passion for the natural

102 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

The backdrop to Sally’s adventures

ARTS & CRAFTS A R T I N YO U R A R E A

Fifties flair

Those who love the style and swagger of the 1950s will be delighted at the reopening of a museum dedicated to the decade in Denbigh ‘Sparrow’ Harrison MBE at the Museum

an immersion into life in the 1950s, with items ranging from a pink Cadillac to a wall-to-floor collection of cigarette cartons and smoking memorabilia. A Ford Fiesta owned by former hostess Christine Keeler (of ‘Profumo Affair’ fame) is also part of the retro selection.

The museum is entirely interactive: the objects are not behind glass, visitors can pick things up and immerse themselves in the different sections that represent different aspects of the 1950s.

Living history

The pink Caddy is a cherished exhibit

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best awards and opportunities.

The biennial New Light Prize exhibition provides northern artists with an unparalleled platform to showcase their work and reach new audiences.

The exhibition tour 2023-24 begins with this show at the Williamson, which is free to visit. All artwork is available to purchase, and every purchase supports the viability of participants’ artistic careers.

Fully interactive

The museum is filled with a huge collection of artefacts, which have been added to over the 30 years it has been open. Some date from the decades either side, such as the getaway vehicle for the Great Train Robbery, but it is mostly

The New Light Prize, Williamson Art Gallery, Wirral.

Until 22nd December.

Established in 2010, the New Light charity celebrates and promotes northern art, supporting both well-known and emerging artists by offering some of the region’s ‘It’s a Savoy!’ by Jo Morris

he much-loved 1950s Museum in Denbigh is open again after a temporary closure.

David ‘Sparrow’ Harrison MBE had been running the museum alongside the Cae Dai Trust, which he founded to help vulnerable people, but has now established his astonishing collection as a separate attraction.

He said: “The public love the museum. It is such a rare find and it deserves the rich acclaim it receives. People love the memories it evokes, and they love sharing those memories with their families and friends.

“We have so many exhibits that fascinate our visitors, from classic cars, sport, music and film to crime memorabilia, and the fact that the museum provides support for those with vulnerabilities has made it a key resource and attraction for the community and visitors alike.

“Moving forwards, I will be running the museum as an amenity for the benefit of the generations to come. It is important to remember our past, and this museum encapsulates much of the history that made us what we are today.”

The museum started life as a car park full of fancy cars, with just one small building dedicated to the collection. Most of the motoring exhibits were lost in a fire in 2009, but the museum rose from the ashes thanks to donations from businesses and members of the public.

Next door is a gym used by the local boxing club, which also sports memorabilia around the walls. Sparrow, an ex-boxer now in his eighties, is the senior trainer and founder member.

He said: “People find the museum a memoryjogger to a past life and it brings people alive to see the objects from their past. It is magical to see and I am happy to continue to work on its development, for the enjoyment of everyone, as long as I can.”

Open daily 11am-4pm. A donation of £7.50 is encouraged. See Facebook @The 1950s Museum, Denbigh or call 01745 817 004.

British sculptor Jeremy Stiff is undertaking a project to create a bust of the celebrated designer Susan Williams-Ellis, founder of Portmeirion Pottery.

Jeremy, who is the son-in-law of the artist, knew her personally for many years before her death in 2007 at the age of 89. Working from memory, as well as family and archive photographs, he created the initial portrait in clay over the summer at the Orangery at Plas Brondanw Gardens in Llanfrothen, North Wales, which is home of the Susan Williams-Ellis Foundation. The final sculpture will now be cast as a lasting tribute to one of the world’s most recognised ceramic artists and businesswomen, who had a significant impact on the creative legacy of North Wales.

Williams-Ellis was the eldest daughter of Portmeirion architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. She studied at Chelsea School of Art under Henry Moore and Graham Sutherland and became an accomplished artist, designer, illustrator and author. Her paintings were exhibited at the Festival of Britain, and many of the rooms at Portmeirion Village were furnished in her beautiful fabric designs.

In 1960 she founded Portmeirion Pottery with her husband Euan Cooper-Willis. Their designs were considered the height of contemporary style and continue to be sold worldwide today. www.jeremystiffsculptor.co.uk; www.plasbrondanw.org

All the exhibits can be picked up and examined November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 103

Welsh gold wedding rings

Winter Exhibition 15th November - 17th December 2023 A family run gallery for those seeking original Welsh art within easy reach of the A55.

Genuine Welsh gold jewellery hand-made by Kelvin in his studio workshop in Borth, Ceredigion.

Designer jeweller since 1968 Kelvin has specialised in working in Welsh gold since 1985.

kjwelshgold@gmail.com

Tel: 01970 871002 www. kelvinjenkins.co.uk

Exhibiting Artists: Oleksandra Davyden Debbie Baxter Roger Young Eric Peake MBE Jo Clarke David Evans Alla Chakir Kim Harley Claire Shaughnessy Roman Nedopaka and many more!

10am-5pm Weds-Sat & 10am-4pm Sundays Glasfryn Hall, South St, Caerwys, Flintshire CH7 01352 349037 | www.orielglasfryn.com | @orielglasfryngallery

oriel DAVIES gallery

The gallery is open: Tuesday - Saturday 10 - 4 orieldavies.org

oriel | caffi | siop | gallery | café | shop Oriel Davies connects people with contemporary art and culture in Mid Wales. We provide opportunities to experience National and International artists working within a Welsh context in a stimulating, engaging, inclusive and welcoming environment.

ARTES MUNDI 10 Carolina Caycedo “Significant solo presentation of new and existing work from one of the world’s most important international contemporary artists.”

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ARTS & CRAFTS

PHOTO COMPETITION

We’re loving the splash of colour inspired by our latest photo challenge – this page truly lives up to the theme of ‘Pretty in Pink’.

We’ve shared as many entries as we can here and have picked (excuse the pun!) our winners, but if you didn’t make it into print this time please have a go at our next competition and hopefully you’ll make it into the January/February issue!

With Christmas on the horizon and Santa busy with his lists, we’re setting as our theme this time ‘Naughty or Nice?’. So whether it’s a decadent dessert you’ve concocted, a prank your little people have been up to or a family celebration captured for posterity, please send us your best photos. As always, email them to editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk – and good luck!

By Chris Bright

By Julie Wrigley

By John Hughes

By Claire Stott

By Paul Lewis

By Julie Sheffield

By Julie Wrigley

By Chris Bright

By Claire Mottram

By Julie Sheffield

By Claire Mottram

By Tracey Lewis

By Rachelle

By Debbie Warmisham

By Margaret Whittingham

By Annie Lloyd

By Tracey Lewis

By Philip Wain

By Tracey Lewis

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 105

Pets&Wildlife

ON THE MARCHES

Mortimer Forest

A new initiative is bringing together nature experts and charities from England and Wales to create and restore habitats across this distinctive and historic region Beacon Hill

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his autumn a group of Wildlife Trusts launched Wilder Marches, an ambitious nature recovery project across two countries, four counties and three major river catchments.

Shropshire, Herefordshire, Montgomeryshire and Radnorshire Wildlife Trusts came together to celebrate the unique natural and cultural landscape straddling the Welsh-English border, which includes the headwaters of the Rivers Lugg, Teme and Clun. Stretching across approximately 100,000 hectares, the area is home to long-established rural communities and dotted with ancient woodlands, heathlands and peatland, flower-rich meadows, wood pasture and ‘ffridd’, a special upland habitat of scrub and grassland. But the Marches also suffer from areas of intensive farming as well as extensive forestry plantations where nature is struggling to thrive. The Wilder Marches initiative aims to enable a network of estates, farms, woods, nature reserves and commons to help nature recover once more.

Trust, said: “Nature doesn’t adhere to country or county boundaries and that’s why we’re so excited to be working at a landscape scale in the Marches.

The region might be part of Montgomeryshire, Radnorshire, Herefordshire and Shropshire but it is a single landscape, worthy of River Lugg defending with a deep sense of Geographical gem place. Given the shared cultural heritage amongst the Marches’ Due to its location, the Marches has a critical role to play in water communities, as four local Wildlife Trusts we have a fantastic storage, ecological resilience and mitigating the impacts of the opportunity to work with local people, landowners, farmers and climate and nature crises. The current reform of farm subsidies has presented an opportunity to develop new business NGOs to identify areas of strategic importance and opportunities that will benefit habitats, wildlife and people.” models that will help sustain farm incomes whilst allowing nature to be restored across Iolo Williams, wildlife TV presenter and vice president of The Wildlife Trusts, said: “I adore the Marches and this exciting the farmed landscape. new project presents a fantastic opportunity to restore this once Helen O’Connor, who is head of development at Shropshire Wildlife abundant landscape along the Welsh-English border. I’d love to see the fields full of curlew, lapwing and yellowhammer, ponds brimming with newts and frogs, and flower-rich hay meadows buzzing with insects once again. In Wales Ffridd we’ve lost iconic birds such as the nightingale and corn Habitat bunting – and water voles are now confined to a few “It might be part isolated sites and threatened with extinction. Wilder of Montgomeryshire, Marches gives us a vision to help nature that’s in Radnorshire, crisis and I urge everyone to support this initiative.”

Herefordshire and Shropshire but it is a single landscape, worthy of defending with a deep sense of place”

Shropshire Hills

106 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

Wild and wonderful

Jan McKelvey, head of conservation at Shropshire Wildlife Trust, said: “Wonderful and, yes, sometimes wild – that’s just the weather! – the Marches has a special place in my heart. It’s a landscape of wooded valley sides, patchwork fields alongside winding rivers and rough moorland hilltops. At its centre are the people who created it – generations who cultivated and farmed it, and today still strive to make a living from this cherished landscape. This project looks to the future and how we can support both the people and the wildlife and keep it such a special place.” www.shropshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/wilder-marches

CUTE PETS

PETS & WILDLIFE

WIN

A year ’s subscription to Shire, worth £24.95!

Imagine… your favourite magazine delivered right to your doorstep!

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1. Bertie Bach , 11, on one of his favourite beds 2. Charlie at the Great Orme 3. Dolly the Dachshund, enjoying the sun in Welshpool 4. Loving Archie gazes in adoration 5. India and Tinker in their carriage for a walk 6. Kitty 7. Hamish 8. Seren the little star 9. Lucy 10. Manny the Brittany 11. Lola the rescue Yorkie 12. Sir Barker Roberts of Wilmslow in lounging mode 13. Toby and his duckie 14. Denzel leading the way on another adventure

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Congratulations to Barbara Ellis, owner of Denzel, for winning the Cute Pets competition this issue!

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To enter, email a photograph of your pet and their name to editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk and the Shire team will pick the winner!

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 107

PETS & WILDLIFE

ROAD TO RECOVERY A huge financial boost is helping local Wildlife Trusts to plan a programme of special projects to help UK nature, protecting species and habitats across the country Flapper skate underwater © Fenella Wood

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he Wildlife Trusts across Britain have unveiled a new programme that will accelerate UK nature recovery and help to reverse catastrophic declines in wildlife. A £6 million injection from the Ecological Restoration Fund will support rewilding projects, the reintroduction of keystone species and better protections for marine and coastal habitats, including several across Shropshire and North Wales.

The funds come at a time when more than 40 percent of species in the UK are in decline and over 15 percent threatened with extinction. The UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world. Seas are at risk from over-exploitation and development, rivers are dying from agricultural and sewage pollution, and many people suffer from lack of access to nature.

The Wildlife Trusts’ programme, Transforming Nature’s Recovery, seeks to address these challenges on three fronts: Keystone species reintroduction – wild habitats are fragmented and have lost many natural processes that are fundamental to healthy ecosystems. This includes the loss of predators such as lynx and wild cats, and wild herbivores such as tarpan, A beaver at aurochs and bison. Funding will contribute towards Knapdale Scottish applications and release programmes of free-living Wildlife Trust © Steve Gardner beavers to restore wetlands and low-level grazing with large herbivores such as Exmoor ponies, Welsh black cattle and Highland cows.

Hedgehog © Tom Marshall

Marine conservation – the UK’s cold and nutrient-rich seas were once some of the healthiest, most productive on Earth, but pressures from development, pollution and over-fishing have led to huge wildlife declines. Welsh seas double the size of Wales and it is vital that these pressures are reversed. New funding will enable the development of partner support to deliver nature’s recovery in 30 percent of Welsh seas by 2030.

Rewilding – the UK has committed to protecting 30 percent of land for nature by 2030. The programme targets creating bigger, more connected wild areas, to allow natural processes to help restore nature’s abundance, resilience and diversity. Funding will launch a landscape recovery programme along Hadrian’s Wall, back projects in the Welsh countryside, Hertfordshire, the Peak District and Northern Ireland and complement recovery work across the Severn catchment.

The programme is designed to help the UK achieve its existing target of protecting 30 percent of land and sea by 2030 and reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050. There is Water vole © Terry Whittaker still a funding gap of an estimated £56 billion to of 2020Vision achieve these targets over the subsequent decade.

Ancient oak returns to Chirk One of the world’s largest and oldest oak trees has returned to its roots

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Pontfadog Oak sapling © National Trust/Paul Harris

hree generations of one family came together to plant a rare specimen at Chirk Castle: a sapling grafted from the Pontfadog Oak, which stood during Owain Gwynedd’s defeat of the English and featured in the Guinness Book of Records as the ‘widest tree in Great Britain’.

The ancient oak, which fell in a storm in 2013, stood at Cilcochwyn Farm, near Chirk, Wrexham, and was cared for by generations of the Morris/ Williams family. It was estimated to be between 1,200 and 1,700 years old when it fell. In 2013, the Crown Estate propagated the original Pontfadog Oak and planted a tree in Windsor Great Park. A further five oaks were then grafted

108 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

from this tree; three have been gifted to National Trust Cymru, and two are cared for by the National Botanic Garden of Wales.

Earlier this year, three generations of the family, along with representatives from Welsh Government, joined National Trust Cymru to plant the rare sapling on the Chirk Castle estate, just two miles from where the oak once stood.

Jo Williams, from the family, said: “For someone else it might be just a tree, but we played hide and seek in there, you could put in a table and chairs and have dinner inside it. I have photos of me as a toddler in front of it, and on my wedding day stood with family and friends.”

TALKING TO THE ANIMALS

CELEBRITY

Known to millions as televisionʼs Supervet, Professor Noel Fitzpatrick is touring the country sharing his animal insights – and heʼs calling at various Shire spots on the way

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ver since he burst on to our screens as the Supervet, as front door and see your new £100 trainers have been shredded a nation we’ve adored Noel Fitzpatrick. It ’s probably by your puppy – but when he bounds towards you, you forgive something to do with our reputation for loving our pets, since him in a nanosecond. And that is what animals teach us about there’s no doubt that Noel regards them far more highly then life. They teach us the power of forgiveness and love. most humans. Now, with a show unlike any other, he is touring “We all know people we bear a grudge against, for whatever the country to remind us why, in his own words, “Animals reason, because we’re human. But animals unlock unconditional make us better people in every conceivable way.” love within us. They uncork a capacity within us to be ourselves, With dates in early November at William Aston Hall in beyond the façade that we put up for society. They allow us to Wrexham, Parr Hall in Warrington and the Lyceum in Crewe, be the best we can be.” you’ll need to act fast if you want a ticket to see the country’s first ever touring vet on stage. But don’t worry if you miss out The power of love – Shire chatted with Noel to find out what it is about our furry Noel’s stage show, Beyond Supervet, will offer loads of fun as friends that makes them so special to us, and to him. well as insights into what one of the world’s most sought-after Noel said: “I don’t think that we can always be our true selves orthopaedic-neuro veterinary surgeons has gleaned from the with humans. Imagine you’ve had a hard day at work where your thousands of animals he has treated. Reaching beyond the boss has been awful to you. You come home and your neighbour marvellous world of The Supervet, which has been running for Bob, who keeps dumping his grass cuttings on your side of the 18 seasons on Channel 4, Noel examines how caring for animals fence, has parked his car right in front of really can benefit us all. your door. You’re A keen actor in his spare time – he has pretty narked. had roles in London’s Burning, Casualty “Iʼm passionate about The chances of and The Bill – he exudes charisma, and going on tour. There you forgiving reveals his excitement at hitting the road.

Bob at this “I’m passionate about going on tour. are so many things, moment are There are so many things, hilariously hilariously funny, very exactly zero. funny and very sad and very real and Then you very truthful, that I would like to share.” real and very truthful open your One topic that will definitely feature that Iʼd like to share.” is his beloved border terrier Keira, his companion for 14 years. “She basically taught me everything I know. I would be an empty vessel if she hadn’t been there. She taught me humility, gratitude and how to dream big. She very much inspired How Be, which was about passion Animals Make Us The Best We Can Be and thankfulness and openness and kindness and commitment and authenticity and creativity and, of course, hope.

“I do talk about the tough times, because it’s important to reflect on the fact that everybody has challenges. We’re going through war at the moment, but it’s vital to look at the joy and goodness and love in the world.

Beyond Supervet is at William Aston Hall on 2nd November, Parr Hall on 3rd and the Lyceum Theatre on 10th. Check for last-minute tickets at www.noelfitzpatricklive.com November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 109

Health&Beauty

LOVE OR HATE?

As sprout season looms, Shire’s nutrition expert Dr Tanja Harrison, of the University of Chester looks at the many benefits of the much-maligned veggie

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russel sprouts have a bit of a reputation of being the Marmite of vegetables, people tend to love them or hate them. There are some, like myself, who might go ‘meh’, when asked about the humble sprout, but hear me out!

I am not the biggest fan in terms of their taste myself (a childhood full of mushy, overcooked Brussel sprouts might well have contributed to this) but I do cook and eat them regularly (to the delight of my husband who claims them to be his favourite vegetable). However, I do think that they deserve a place on my plate, especially now that they are in season in the UK and at their best.

Sprouts are grown in the UK, and therefore including these (at least sometimes) as one of your five-a-day ensures that you are eating a low-foodmiles vegetable. This means you are supporting British farmers and doing something good for the environment.

Packing a punch

This so-called humble vegetable packs a punch in terms of its nutritional content, especially if you do not boil them to a mush but use more gentle cooking methods, such “Sulphuras steaming, microwaving and containing stir-frying instead. An 80-gram compounds portion contains an adult’s called daily recommendation of all of glucosinolates, their Vitamin C. Sprouts are can be bitter also rich in folate, Vitamin K and pungent” Not everyone’s favourite and antioxidants. Botanically speaking, Brussel sprouts belong glucosinolates, which can to the Brassica family, which also includes be bitter and pungent. So what can you broccoli, cabbages and cauliflower. All do? Think outside your roast dinner and try and incorporate Brussel sprouts in for of these are rich in nutrients and if you example stir-fries to mingle them with consume varieties in different colours you ensure that you get a wide range more interesting (distracting) flavours.

Cooking them ‘al dente’ and leaving a of phyto (‘plant’) nutrients, which are extremely beneficial to our health. bit of crunch also means that fewer of the bitter tasting compounds are being These vegetables are rich in sulphur-containing compounds called released, making them more palatable.

Time for reform

As a first-of-its-kind Pilates studio opens in Anglesey, owner Emily tells Shire what it means to her and her pupils

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mily Cornelissen relocated to Anglesey in March 2022 after her partner Harry started work on the island. The move enabled her to realise a long-held pipe dream and set up her own Pilates studio by 110 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

the sea and soon Island Pilates was born. Emily sayes: “I remember advertising my first class and being so excited that two people had booked on! I now have a full timetable of weekly mat work classes and teach regular Reformer classes. I now teach at two venues; Menai Bridge and above the Unit Gym in Y Felinheli. I also started some pop up classes in popular weekend spots including Cafe Notos and Tide, Halen Mon.” Emily was easily convinced of the benefits of Reformer Pilates herself after using the techniques to recover from a back injury. “I was desperate to show the benefits of applying Pilates fundamentals to my lovely clients,” said Emily. “I wanted The studio to provide a safe and comfortable space for people to exercise so I now have a lovely little studio in Menai Bridge with three Reformer beds. Reformer Pilates is great for anybody; male, female and all ages.” www.islandpilates.co.uk

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Schools

SCHOOL NEWS WINNER OF THE YOUNG SONGWRITER

Look out for Macy O’s debut album soon

Making memories

Opportunities Face2Face

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ow in its seventh Creative director of The Holroyd year, the Face2Face Community Theatre, Michael “A true Jenkins said: “What sets us apart Performance Academy was excited to welcome new is that our faculty is made up of insight students for the autumn term. industry professionals, all of whom into the A renowned performing have experienced the performing industry” arts training, Face2Face arts field at the highest levels. nurtures artistic talent and This gives our pupils a true insight creativity through a diverse into the industry and raises their curriculum, with many pupils going aspirations. In addition to quality coaching, on to gain places at drama schools and we also provide outstanding opportunities professional performance opportunities. that are truly memorable.”

Ghyll scrambling in the Lake District

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ear 12 students from Abbey Gate College travelled to the Lake Distict to spend three days at Derwentwater, taking part in outdoor activities including rock climbing, monster paddleboard, climb the mine and via ferrata. The students also tried ghyll scrambling in a mountain stream with plenty of slides and jumps, ensuring you are truly wet by the end!

Everyone helped with chores at the independent hostel, and the evenings involved team-building activities, bingo and relaxing with friends.

Adventure in Iceland

An unforgettable experience

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group of Rydal Penrhos students recently embarked on a trip to Iceland, combining both adventure and education. A scenic drive along the Reykjanes Peninsula included a stop at The Bridge Between “Exploring natural Continents, which showcases Iceland’s wonders” unique geological position. They also visited Gullfoss waterfall, UNESCO site Thingvellir National Park and Fridheimar Greenhouse Cultivation Center. The adventure continued with a trip along the South Shore, exploring natural wonders to help foster a lifelong love for learning.

A Concord College student who performs as Macy O has been named winner of the Young Songwriter 2023 competition in her age group (13-15 years) with her song ‘Love Rampage’.

Macy beat tough competition, with around 1,000 entries from writers around the world.

The competition, run by Song Academy, is now in its 13th year and has a vision to help every child, regardless of background, express themselves by writing their own songs.

Having begun performing at an early age Macy started songwriting during lockdown and was named as a ‘Star of the Future’ in the Shropshire Music Awards. She will shortly be launching her first album, Journeys.

FOSSILS & FOLKLORE Author Kate Innes captivated year 4, 5 and 6 classes and their teachers at St Winefride’s School with her account of how walks in the Shropshire woods and the exploration Young readers loved the visit of British trees provide inspiration for her fiction and poetry. The children were encouraged to imitate the rustle of leaves with their hands, whistle-sigh like the wind through the trees and imagine faces in the trunks.

Kate shared some folklore with the classes, such as that holly berries ward off evil but only if they are secured by a red thread. She also brought along fossils from her collection, and left a few in the school library for keen fossil hunters to explore!

RAISING FUNDS FOR MACMILLAN Pupils and staff at Tettenhall College have raised over £1,100 for Macmillan Cancer Support at the annual Macmillan Coffee Morning, which is a tradition at the College.

This year Tettenhall College welcomed entries to a school bake-off competition, ‘It’s a Cake Off ’, on the theme of House colours, the new House animals or the College itself – with Nicholson House being crowned winners.

As well as cake, there were activities and entertainment for the guests, which helped the event to raise an incredible amount of money towards Macmillan Cancer.

It’s a Cake Off was a huge success

A fantastic adventure November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 113

SCHOOLS

SCHOOL NEWS WRU REVISED SCHOOL COLLEGES LEAGUE

Rugby has been played at Christ College since the 1870s

Christ College Brecon were delighted to host the launch of the Welsh Rugby Union’s revised elite Welsh schools and colleges competition, which has awarded a total of 16 Rugby Programmes in Education (RPE) licences, forming part of the new-look player pathway.

The new RPE licence scheme will replace the old A licences and aims to drive the standards of development for talented male players in education aged 16-18. Elements of the scheme include clear focus on education, holistic development and a more robust approach to staffing and medical support – as part of a new approach to building a world-leading rugby development system in Wales.

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40-strong group of students from St David’s College completed a netball tour of Gibraltar, which was deemed a brilliant success. With activities such as dolphin watching and paddle boarding, the natural beauty of “We were Gibraltar provided the perfect backdrop for some more in amazing experiences. sync as Alongside the a team” One of the St David’s teams leisure and sightseeing opportunities, the girls becoming more in sync as a team, learned beneficial skills in their netball and more confident in our abilities.” training sessions. PE teacher, Ms Elle The team achieved two wins and two Jones said: “We could feel ourselves losses in their games.

CAKE ’N’ CUPPA

H

eadmaster of Oswestry School, Mr Middleton, invited the school’s estate team to School House for tea, Th ea eh et ardtat to thank them s e working for their hard work and dedication over the summer, ensuring refurbishment work to both Prep and Senior schools was completed successfully. The team is responsible for ensuring the campus is taken care of and work is carried out to the highest standards. The visit took place on the birthday of David Jones, estates manager, with the team wishing him many happy returns and enjoying some birthday cake.

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DERWEN IN BLOOM

ON TOUR IN GIBRALTAR

Great work from the Derwen team

In September, Derwen College’s Horticulture team were proud to be among the group to meet with Britain in Bloom judges at Cae Glas Park, to demonstrate the beautiful planting the college has played a vital role in.

Nursery production manager Paul Moss was instrumental in designing and planting the park’s bedding, borders and planters, keeping bees and butterflies in mind with pollinatorfriendly perennials. Paul has worked at the park with Derwen College students who visit every Monday. Oswestry is one of 10 towns across the UK that are finalists in the competition’s Large Town category. Results will be announced later in the year.

CHORAL TALENT In October, some of the 30,000 children at Woodard Schools across the UK performed together at Shrewsbury Abbey and St Oswald’s Chapel at Ellesmere College, showcasing their choral talent.

Children travelled to Ellesmere College from Sir Robert Woodard Academy in West Sussex, Worksop College in Nottinghamshire, Crompton House C of E School in Oldham, Queen Mary’s School in North Yorkshire and The Peterborough School. The singers learnt a choral repertoire to take back to their respective schools. They also enjoyed a ceilidh and quiz evening at the Quinta Conference and Retreat Centre in Oswestry.

Making music together

114 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

Meet the Head

T

he Firs Prep Chester welcomed former deputy David Girvan as its new head teacher in September.

Mr Girvan joined the school over 10 years ago, having worked in schools across North Wales, as well as leading adventure camps in the USA. Director Tim Longman said: “David encapsulates all the qualities we wanted to see in our head teacher. He has vision and leadership and combines this with a passion for education and a real desire to do the very best for every single pupil.”

David Girvan

A moo-ving story

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Phoebe with Daphne

‘moo’ student joined Adcote School for the day! The school’s CLEAR programme celebrates student achievement, which “Daphne led Year 9 Phoebe to share her success was showing her Jersey champion” cow Daphne at Newport County Show, and a visit was arranged. Daphne was Championship Jersey in 2022 and placed second in 2023. Phoebe hopes to become a vet.

Green flag for Marches eco-drive

S

tudents at the Marches School formed a committee to review how eco-

“A year of action”

A great achievement

friendly their school was, looking at everything from the biodiversity of its grounds to how students travel to school. They planned a year of action including planting hedgerows, energy switch-off initiatives and recycling crisp packets, which won them a coveted Eco-Schools Green Flag with Merit.

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RH Shire Magazine Aug 23.indd 1

WICKED HARVEST

By RJ TURNER When the last barley field in Hope Underhill is harvested a grisly discovery is made.

The decaying corpse of a young woman is caught in the reaper’s blades. John Noble, the new master of the village school, becomes entangled in the investigation, leading him to travel from Shropshire to Lancashire, and putting himself in great danger.

SHIRE

24/08/2023 14:55:36

magazine

Supporting local universities, schools and colleges.

About the Author R J Turner is a Shropshire lad, born and brought up in Bridgnorth. He is fascinated by local history and loves to walk his dog in the local countryside around Oswestry, where he now lives. He is the author of two other crime novels, set in Shropshire: A Perfect Alibi and Murder On The Moss.

Published by Pegasus Elliot MacKenzie Publishers Ltd.

Tel: 01223 370012 editors@pegasuspublishers.com www.pegasuspublishers.com

116_SHIRE_ND2023.indd 1

To ensure your school is featured, contact us now on editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk or simply call (01691) 661 270

27/10/2023 15:35

Universities & Colleges International recruitment success

Supporting new nurses and midwives

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partnership between the University of Chester and Alder Hey Children’s NHS Trust to support international nurses in the UK has reached the finals in the Nursing Times Workforce Summit and Awards, in the category of Best International Recruitment Experience.

This award aims to recognise a strategic

approach to the improvement of overseas nurses’ and midwives’ experience of recruitment to the UK. The University collaborated with Alder Hey to create the International Nurse Post-OCSE Support Programme to help support individuals as they transition into their new roles.

The awards aim to bring together the brightest talent in workforce planning and highlight those making a difference in recruitment, staff retention, wellbeing and inclusion. Winners will be announced on 21st November.

Dr Kate Knight, of the University of Chester said: “Working collaboratively with Alder Hey has been an absolute joy. It has been an amazing opportunity to create bespoke sessions for wonderful colleagues as they embark on their roles at Alder Hey.”

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University of “Chat bot Wolverhampton for the Data Science student has developed an artificial course Julius Odede: First Class honours intelligence chat bot that website” helps applicants with ‘JayBot’, a chat bot on an AI model. course enquiries. Julius Having graduated with a First Class Odede, from Lagos, Nigeria, was keen to degree, Julius’ approach to using data has improve and refine the live chat function improved the effectiveness of responses on the university’s website, developing for potential university applicants.

House of the Dragon role for former student eth Elen Roberts, who studied the Art Foundation course at Coleg Menai, helped design the model of Old Valyria that appears throughout the Game of Thrones prequel, House of the Dragon. Beth worked as a junior concept artist alongside production designer Jim Clay to design the model, seen in King Viserys’ chamber

“More than 200 miniature buildings”

FEELING FOODY

Festival stars

Attracting record crowds this September, Reaseheath College was a headline sponsor of the Nantwich Food Festival, which showcased the best of culinary talent and produce as well as raising the profile of local business and providing the local economy with a boost!

Reaseheath sponsored the Love Lane Food Theatre in the town centre, which featured popular demonstrations by celebrities such as Jack Stein, Simon Rimmer and Lesley Waters.

The venue also hosted the official launch of the festival, with speeches from Nantwich Town Mayor Cllr Steph Wedgwood and chair of the Food Festival Committee Christine Farrall.

A team of staff was on hand to promote the college’s food-based courses, adult courses and trial facilities for businesses.

PURSUIT OF PEACE

CHAT BOT HAS THE ANSWERS

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UNIVERSITY NEWS

throughout the hit series.

The King, played by Paddy Considine, is frequently seen building his recreation of the fabled city while his grip on the throne of Westeros begins to loosen. Beth, from Penmon on Anglesey, was hired to work on the intricate prop, which consists of more than 200 miniature buildings and involved six months of work.

Beth with the city she helped to build

Academics, peace campaigners and members of the public will gather to explore the ‘Pursuit of Peace’ at a series of events led by Aberystwyth University from 1st-7th November as part of the University’s 2023 Festival of Research.

The week-long Campaigner Eileen Weir event features a programme of community-friendly, free activities celebrating the individuals, groups and ideas that have shaped peace-making in the past. Discussions, poetry, film screenings and workshops will also explore the ways in which a peaceful future can be created.

The events include a keynote conversation with Belfast-based peace activist Eileen Weir.

A RACING START

Some of the specialist suppliers

Some special guests were on hand to help students of the Motor Vehicle, Construction, Engineering and other related courses at Shrewsbury Colleges Group with their course introductions at the start of term. Throughout the day, students spent time with different specialist suppliers gaining insight into the latest knowledge and techniques such as automated robotic welding tools. The race team from the British Touring Car Championship Hyundai team brought along their i30N touring car.

Students were also able to view the range of tools for their courses from specialist suppliers including GE Welding, RMT Garage Equipment, DeWalt, Draper Tools, and Milwaukee.

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 117

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118 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2023

Date

SCHOOLS

ETHICAL ADVENTURE

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group of 15 Health and Social Care learners from Coleg Cambria Deeside spent two weeks living and contributing to community engagement programmes in Ho Chi Minh and the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. The Level 2 and Level 3 students supported women at a social centre and students at local primary schools, delivering workshops on conversational English and sharing the Welsh language.

Cambria was the first college to participate on “Sharing the Vietnam pilot programme, organised with the Welsh Challenges Abroad, which delivers and leads language” A valuable learning experience for all ethical adventures for young people all over the world, with funding provided by the UK provide our learners with experiences Government Department of Education’s Turing Scheme. that will give them the tools to be successful Lisa Radcliffe, assistant principal for Technical Studies at in their careers while developing into global Deeside, said: “We are working with Challenges Abroad to citizens who can really make a difference.”

Welsh University of the Year

Star of the catwalk

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B

Bangor: Welsh university of the year

angor University has been named Welsh University of the Year in the Daily Mail’s first University Guide.

The opening of the University’s new Medical School next September will be a significant “At the development in its history and will heart of place the University at the heart of health and the future development of the health life science” and life science sector across North Wales. Its academic profile is already tied closely to its environment, with courses in Ocean Science, Marine Conservation and Forestry.

The university also ranked third for halls and student accommodation in the 2023 Whatuni Student Choice Awards.

ward-winning Telford College student Carl Davies became a star of the catwalk when his designs were showcased at “Inspired the Fashion Carl modelled his by iron outfit at the show Through The workers” Victoria took to the Ages’ event catwalk in costumes held by the representing fashions Ironbridge from 1750-1970.

Gorge Museum Trust.

The event took place at Art and Design students Enginuity to coincide with from Telford College were Fashion Weeks in London, challenged to create costumes and Carl’s design, inspired by Paris, Milan and New York.

18th-century iron workers Models dressed as coal merchants, Quakers, female and business owners’ outfits, was selected as the winner. footballers and even Queen

A CORNER OF WALES IN CHINA I

mages of North Wales landscapes by Emma Petruzzelli, a University of Chester graduate, were showcased in the Dali International Photography Exhibition in Yunnan Province, China throughout the summer.

The exhibition offered a cultural exchange between photographers in China and the UK. It is described by organisers as “one of the world’s most influential cultural and artistic events” and “the world expo in the photography industry”.

Emma began studying and graduated in her sixties, achieving a First in a Bachelor of Arts in Photography. She

One of Emma’s wonderful landscapes

has recently been awarded the title of Associate of the Royal Photographic Society. She said “I was very proud and excited to have been selected and that my degree show images were available to be seen by a wider and new audience.”

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 119

Books&Poetry A FOOTBALL FANTASY The story of Wrexham AFC’s celebrity backing, rise in fortune and propulsion onto the world stage is the stuff of dreams – and one author has made them his own Did all this really happen? Author Andrew Foley Jones

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to past players, matches and managers. ndrew Foley Jones, from Prestatyn, is “The book a lifelong supporter of Wrexham AFC, Combined with an off-the-wall plot that so basing a story around the team was could end up loosely follows the reality of the past three a natural step for the writer. It’s Always with its own years, it makes for a fun, at times emotional Sunny in Wrexham is a captivating, at times Hollywood and quite serious novel I’m very proud of.”

The book clearly appeals to the club’s crazy tale of a fan who wakes from a 10twist!” year coma to find the Red Dragons under growing global fanbase and Andrew said the stewardship of two A-list superstars. interest is building in the story Barely credible if it weren’t so close to the truth! on both sides of the Set in the future and featuring a host of local Atlantic, ahead of characters, former players Wrexham’s return to and big-name stars – in the story, Hugh Jackman the Football League. is now chairman of “A lot of ideas are being discussed arch-rivals FC Romans which are very of Chester! – the book is exciting and I’m capturing the imagination in talks about of readers everwhere.

Andrew has his own fan following turning this into Andrew said: “It’s a As read by Turf landlord Wayne Jones! blend of fact and fiction a screenplay, so the book could also end up with its own Hollywood twist!” said the dad-of-two. that has gone down a storm in the UK, the US and It’s Always Sunny in Wrexham is available on Amazon other parts of the world. I hope it resonates with our Kindle and as a paperback from Amazon die-hard supporters as there are plenty of references

BOOK N EWS

BOOK LOVERS, BOOK NOW! With Chester Literature Festival running throughout November, it’s time to grab your tickets to this celebration of the written word

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ooking is now open for the main headliners at this year’s Chester Literature Festival, the city’s annual celebration of literature, poetry and more. Held at the Storyhouse venue, this year’s festival takes place from 9th-26th November and offers 18 days of talks, workshops, performance and more.

Among the stars taking part are the following favourites.

For a full proramme and to book visit www.storyhouse.com

Monty Don, 9th November, 7pm Spend an evening with the nation’s favourite gardener!

BBC Gardeners’ World presenter Monty will be sharing stories from his career and talking about his genre-defining new release, The Gardening Book – a revolutionary guide to the basics of gardening and growing. Don’t miss the opportunity to join him for this timely celebration of gardening, challenging the norms and answering your conundrums.

120 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

Candice Brathwaite, 12th November, 7pm Acclaimed author, journalist and presenter Candice Brathwaite will be in conversation with the BBC’s Ngunan Adamu. Candice is straight-talking and exuberant, intent on showing the joy to be had in being young, black and British. Join her as she discusses her novel for young adults, Cuts Both Ways.

Grace Dent, 15th November, 7pm In her festival debut Grace will discuss her best-selling memoir, Hungry – a warm, witty and joyous voyage through the food writer’s life story – as well as her new book, Comfort Eating, exploring the gastronomic experiences that have stayed with her the most: from growing up in a Carlisle terrace eating beige food, enjoying treats with her nan, to haute cuisine in the finest restaurants.

Melanie Sykes, 18th November, 7pm Melanie is a well-known face and voice across TV and radio, delivering humour, honesty and insight. She will be discussing her acclaimed memoir, Illuminated: Autism and All the Things I’ve Left Unsaid alongside her friend, the broadcaster Simon Savidge.

BOOKS & POETRY The team have enjoyed these two books that depict unusual settings and environments in exquisite detail

ABANDONED ROSES

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

Now also a hit movie, Delia Owens’ Where the Crawdads Sing is a mesmerising blend of mystery, romance and the enchantment of the natural world.

Set in the marshes of North Carolina, it immerses readers in a hauntingly atmospheric tale.

The story unfolds through parallel narratives. The first follows Kya Clark, the ‘Marsh Girl’, who is abandoned by her family at a young age and grows up in isolation, forging an extraordinary connection with the wilderness. The second thread involves a murder investigation in the nearby town. Victim Chase Andrews is a local heartthrob and the circumstances of his death are the talk of the community.

The novel weaves between past and present, exploring Kya’s comingof-age and gradually revealing how the two narratives are linked. It’s a page-turner that combines elements of a murder mystery with a tender exploration of human connection and the power of self-discovery.

BACK TO BASICS I am what I am. You are what you are A cloud is a cloud. A star is a star Your feet are for walking, your eyes are for sight Your ears are to listen, your fists are to fight Your mind is to puzzle, to wander, to question To think and to find, to utter suggestion A foot is a foot, an eye is an eye Your hand is in mine, and love cannot die Everything’s normal. No-one’s insane And life goes on smoothly again Paula Holden

The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah

This emotionally charged historical novel transports readers to Great Depression-era America, delivering a poignant and gripping tale of family, survival and the indomitable human spirit.

Set in the Dust Bowl of Texas during the 1930s, the novel follows the life of Elsa Martinelli, a strong-willed woman facing the harsh realities of poverty and environmental devastation. As drought, dust storms and economic despair threaten to rip her family apart, Elsa makes the heart-wrenching decision to leave her home in search of a better life in California.

Hannah’s prose is vivid, painting a haunting portrait of a bygone era. Elsa is a triumph, as readers witness her transformation from quiet, obedient daughter to a courageous woman who will stop at nothing to protect her family. The Four Winds sheds light on the injustices of the time, highlighting the plight of migrant workers and the divide between haves and have-nots.

ANEMONE AND CELANDINE Anemone and celandine Arise once more.

They come to shine Upon this grey shore.

Dull are these days But come they do, For each in their ways Radiate upon you.

They uplift one’s heart With medallions bright: Ushering a new start With their exquisite sight.

Anaemic is the sun As the year does turn.

The season has won And we have to learn.

Joy is their message Across this wilted garden, No excuse or presage Just their presence without pardon.

Norman Marshall

Red roses tumbling down the field bank Shelter from stalking winds; Cling on to old walls.

To warm themselves in the sun.

Absorbing sounds bouncing Off the neat bungalow – a tight-lipped widow Staring blankly at the road.

The roses nod at the noise of cars Racing up the street But still hear chapel voices singing softly.

They are listening to the stream, Tucked under the bridge, Running from the old mill, Across the fields of long ago Down and out on to the sand and sea Margaret Bradbury A WINTER’S DAY The day is dreary and damp And the pace of my walk I know I have to ramp up or else the cold will seep into my bones and if it does I know I will never atone.

However, Daisy dog walks at two speeds – potter or stop and sniff – irrespective of walking freely or on her lead There is simply no rushing her she will not be moving so fast that she will ever be a blur!

I wear my winter garb Coat, hat, scarf and gloves – even when driving my Saab (well, my Mini!) that has been called The Red Rocket.

However, I drive slowly of course – as I don’t want to be in a policeman’s docket So come on, Daisy dog Let’s please get home to warmth, a coffee and a piece of yule log!

Jo Young

We want your poems!

Share your creativity – we print our favourite poems every issue. Send to Poetry Page, Shire, PO Box 276, Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 1FR or email editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 121

Personal finance Get your self-assessment tax return ticked off your Christmas list Emma Williams BA (Hons), FCCA is Client Manager at D.R.E. & Co. Chartered Accountants & Chartered Tax Advisers in Oswestry

T

he deadline for online submission of self-assessment tax returns for tax year 2022/23 is 31st January 2024. This applies to individuals who are self-employed, partnerships, shareholders in receipt of dividends in excess of £2,000, directors and those with rental income, to name a few.

Selling a second home?

From 6th April 2020, HMRC now requires individuals to report a sale of any second property or a property outside of your principle private residence or other available reliefs via a 60-day Capital Gains Tax return. Not only is the CGT return required, HMRC also requires

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Swooping in to save the day!

Living in rural Billsborough County, a young robin called Raymond and his best friend Bonnie, a blue tit, get into all sorts of adventures but they stick together and lean on each other’s strengths

Tackle it now and avoid penalty charges

“HMRC requires a tax return for a sale of a second property”

you to file a self-assessment tax return for the year in which the sale happened.

HMRC issue penalties for late submission of self-assessment tax returns, even where there is no tax liability or the tax due was paid on time. Penalties increase if a tax return becomes more than three months overdue, increasing to a maximum of £1,300, plus the potential for tax-geared penalties ranging from 5%-100% of the liability in more serious cases.

If you require any assistance with the preparation or submission before the 31st January deadline, D.R.E. & Co. Chartered Accountants can help. We adopt a friendly approach, with local teams offering a prompt and professional service. Alongside more corporate-level advice, we provide a full compliance service for preparation of personal and trust tax returns. Our skilled team can advise on any queries and also assist with tax-efficient planning you may require relating to income tax, capital gains or inheritance tax.

D.R.E. & Co. has offices in Oswestry, Shrewsbury Ludlow, Newtown, Wrexham and Knighton. Call 01691 654 353 or see www.dre.co.uk

Ideal for young readers aged seven to nine, ‘Adventures with Raymond ad Bonnie: The Deserted Cottage’ is illustrated in colour and is available to order through all good retailers and to preview and order at Amazon.co.uk or

https://johnwilliamsauthor.co.uk

Tweedies CLOSING DOWN SALE Handcrafted with a whole lot of love.

Bears / Mice at greatly reduced prices.

See website for full details / availability.

Patricia Clanzy-Hodge Tel: 07917-264237 www.tweedies.biz

122 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

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27/10/2023 17:03

Gate Expectations

Personal finance

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THE REALITY OF RETIREMENT AFFORDABILITY T

he “cost of living crisis” is a phrase that is hard to avoid in any media. High inflation, increasing taxation and constrained earnings growth are an unwelcome combination that leaves few of us unaffected. In time, the crisis should pass. It is easy to forget now that a little over two years ago, in July 2021, inflation was bang on the Bank of England’s target, at 2.0%.

The understandable focus on today’s living costs does not mean that future cost of living issues have disappeared. The latest data, published in January 2023, show that in 2022 the yearly cost of a minimum retirement lifestyle “Over a third of increased from £10,900 to £12,800 (18%) for a single the population person, and from £16,700 to are not on target £19,900 (19%) for a couple.

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to achieve even the minimum lifestyle standard when they reach retirement”

The new forecast* starts with projections based on the current savings and behaviours of individuals and takes a comprehensive view of sources of retirement income, including pensions, other long-term savings, inheritance, and accounts for any housing costs. The main conclusion is that over a third of the population are not on target to achieve even the minimum lifestyle standard when they reach retirement.

It makes sense to find out which retirement outcome you are on track to achieve, as the sooner you know, the more time you have to adjust your plans accordingly.

The value of pensions and investments and the income they produce can fall as well as rise and you may not get back the full amount you invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. * Source: National Retirement Forecast (NRF) Provided by Hartey Wealth Management Ltd. Registered office: Hilliards Court, Chester Business Park, Chester CH4 9QP. Tel: 0808 168 5866. www.harteywm.co.uk Hartey Wealth Management Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 123

27/10/2023 15:34

Retirement Living

Bridging the digital divide

In today’s fast-paced digital age, technology dictates the way we live, work and interact – but we need to make sure no one is excluded

F

Blue Badge applications, rom smartphones that and now ticket machines in connect us instantly to a stations. It’s hard to avoid the global social network, to the convenience of online shopping conclusion that the situation is being exploited to charge and appointments, technology people over the odds. has become an integral part of modern life. But it has also Generation gap left many feeling frustrated, “If you don’t have a smartphone, isolated and out of pocket. or can’t use one because it’s Unlike younger generations physically difficult or no one who grew up with technology, has taken the time to explain many older people have had it, you are scuppered. to adapt to this We should be using new digital “We should the boon of new landscape later in be using technology to expand life. Paul Farmer, technology choice, not narrow it.” ceo of Age UK Across the Shire said: “For many to expand patch there are older people, the choice” several crucial digital revolution community initiatives, is an exercise including projects where in exclusion, not inclusion. younger generations can First the banks, with branches volunteer time to help others closing before the hubs were become more tech-savvy. Many in place. Then parking and libraries and community centres serve as hubs for digital literacy classes and resources too.

By working together – government, technology companies and within our communities – we can ensure everyone, regardless of age, can fully participate in and benefit There’s lots of support if you’re struggling from the digital age.

124 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

GREAT T GIFTS FOR PARENTS GRANDPARENTS

As we get older, we often have all the ‘stuff ’ we want or need.

Shire’s’s shoppers have come up with some fresh ideas for presents this season.

Personalised keepsakes A photo

album, engraved watch or framed map highlighting favourite places is a cherished reminder of special times.

You could mark up a map w past (or ith future!) d estinatio ns…

Travel experiences Retirement may

mean more time for exploration. Consider gifting a weekend getaway, scenic train journey or even a mini cruise.

Subscription services A pass for Netflix, Amazon Prime or a favourite music or audiobook platform may be appreciated, or a traditional magazine or club membership – there’s one for everything from cheese to lawnmowers!

st that will la Give a gift … ng lo ar all ye

Wellness and fitness Encourage a healthy and active retirement by gifting fitness equipment or wellness packages.

Items like a fitness tracker, golf clubs or a spa day can promote physical and mental well-being.

Hobby-related gifts Retirement often

opens doors to pursue long-dormant interests. Tailor your gift to their passions, whether it’s art supplies, gardening tools, a cooking class or that electric guitar!

…or why not put to gether a themed basket?

Award winning care homes We’re proud to be recognised for our excellence in care. From winning Best Larger Care Home Provider to Catering Team of the Year, we have won more awards than any other provider in the last three years.

If you’re considering care call 01244 729 334.

Trusted to care Deewater Grange care home Chester careuk.com/deewater-grange

11168-184013-Deewater-Grange-The-Shire-Mag-1923-A4+3.indd 1 125_SHIRE_ND2023.indd 1

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POETRY | BOOKS & | FASHION

Maintenance

To be included in our discounted Shire Recommends Ad directory for the January / February issue please contact us on

• Jetting and

CCTV surveys • Septic tanks and

sewage treatment plants

01691 661270

advertising@shiremagazine.co.uk

For all enquiries: wilsonbros@live.co.uk

SHIRE magazine

01490 450263 07703606139

Recommended ADVERTISING DIRECTORY!

Recommended GROUNDWORKS If you’re a good communicator and enjoy building relationships, work with our clients and represent the best regional magazine covering Wales and the Borders.

Exciting opportunity to join Shire magazine and work in publishing

Due to expansion, there is now an opportunity for a new member to join our team.

Due to expansion and new titles, we are looking for a bright new team member keen to get a head start in publishing.

Work from home, with hours to suit you, liaising with business owners and marketing teams to help them tailor their campaigns in the magazine.

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Work from your own home, and be part of a team.

The role is wide ranging and includes:

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AN

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Meet the brilliant minds who are leading local companies to success

WHAT ’S

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60-PAGE GUIDE

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23!

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TO S U

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Grab your towel and head for the coast with our guide to the best beaches and fun watersports

Grand idea or design disaster?

We look at the pros and cons of self-building your own home Secret gardens Your chance to explore some glorious hideaways not normally open to visitors

Lovlivineg local

Make a splash this summer!

20

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Women to watch

SHROPSHIRE & MID WALES

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A luxury meal for two!

Tickets to Knutsford car shows!

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HEALTH & BEAUTY | GARDENS | PHOTOGRAPHY | FASHION | BOOKS & POETRY

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• sales pitches to business owners

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Win

We have tickets to terrific shows to give away – turn to page 142!

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On song We meet top local choirs and celebrate the joy of singing together

e living Lovloc al Shire visits Aberaeron

Inside out Use your outside space at home in the warmer weather

• social media management You are a proactive self-starter who enjoys working on your own initiative, and are outgoing and personable. You are highly organised, and have good computer skills. You are hardworking and like to work as part of a team, and you’re ready to learn.

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Find out more about Shire Magazine at www.shiremagazine.co.uk/media-information If you would like to apply, just email your CV to advertising@shiremagazine.co.uk, marked ‘Work from home’ as the subject.

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PUZZLE TIME Across

Sudoku

Difficulty: medium

Down

1 The northernmost province of South Africa, named after a river (7)

Down

29 Cubit 30 Eliot 31 Sand wedge

7 Olivia 8 Cyanide 14 Earth 15 Suffragist 17 Conwy 20 Adam Bede 21 Thrower 22 Beatles 24 Austin 27 Roti 28 Non-U 29 Cowl

128 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

1 Limpopo 2 Petrarch 3 Clay 4 Gibb 5 Fever Pitch 6 M.A.S.H.

ANSWERS

9 ‘I Feel Fine’ 10 Arley 11 Percy 12 Beethoven 13 Perseus 16 Pochard 18 Sharif 19 Tin Man 23 Heather 25 Hoylake 26 Oestrogen

1. Every square has to contain a single number.

2. Only numbers 1 to 9 can be used.

3. Each 3×3 box can only contain each number from 1 to 9 once.

4. Each row and column can only contain each number from 1 to 9 once.

The highlighted letters when rearranged spell BETHESDA

Sudoku rules

Across

Rearrange the highlighted letters to find the name of a former slate quarrying town in Wales

9 The UK Christmas number one in 1964 (1,4,4) 10 The site of a Grade II* listed hall and gardens five miles north of Northwich (5) 11 & 21 Down Erstwhile Parks Superintendent of Shrewsbury who regularly appeared on Gardeners’ World and Blue Peter (5,7) 12 Composer whose only opera was Fidelio (9) 13 Greek hero who beheaded Medusa (7) 16 Diving duck, the males of which have a reddish-brown head (7) 18 Omar ____, Egyptian actor who played the title role in Doctor Zhivago (6) 19 Character seeking a heart in The Wizard of Oz (3,3) 23 Evergreen shrub also known as ling (7) 25 Wirral seaside town to the north of West Kirby (7) 26 A reproductive hormone (9) 29 Ancient unit of measurement based on the length of the forearm (5) 30 George ____, pen name of Mary Ann Evans (5) 31 Type of golf club used for getting out of bunkers (4,5)

2 Italian Renaissance poet and one of the earliest humanists (8) 3 Type of courts used at the French Open (4) 4 Surname of the Bee Gees (4) 5 Nick Hornby’s autobiographical novel about football (5,5) 6 Comedy drama about a team of doctors during the Korean War (4) 7 Wealthy countess who falls for Viola in disguise in Twelfth Night (6) 8 Sparkling ____, novel

by Agatha Christie (7) 14 ‘____ Song‘, 1995 Christmas number one

by Michael Jackson (5) 15 Someone who advocates for the extension of the right to vote (10) 17 North Wales market town with a 13thcentury castle (5) 20 The first novel by 30 Across (4,4) 21 See 11 Across 22 The ____, British band that had four Christmas number ones, including 9 across (7) 24 David ____, rose breeder from Albrighton who introduced cultivars such as ‘Shropshire Lass’ (6) 27 A round flatbread from the Indian subcontinent (4) 28 Term for the aspiring middle classes popularised

by Nancy Mitford (3-1) 29 A large hood worn by monks (4)

Alice Leetham is a writer and puzzle maker from Cheshire.

She works in the fintech industry and also enjoys creating quizzes and cryptic crosswords. Contact: alice@downstream.co.uk

Motoring

Mazda CX-60

The all-new Mazda CX60 certainly makes a statement, wherever it is parked. It is a very large SUV, stylish in appearance, boxy almost, writes Bob Hickman.

T

he wheel arches and the huge 20-inch wheels really do give the Mazda CX-60 an impressive stance and presence. The interior has been enhanced, there is plenty of wood and leather. I also like the feeling of spaciousness, due in no doubt to the sheer size of the vehicle. Some drivers may be intimidated by its sheer bulk, but when you have spent a few hours behind the wheel with the excellent power steering, brakes, automatic transmission, reversing cameras, even front facing camera, the plethora of external audio devices to tell you when you are in danger of nudging or hitting something, it makes for a vehicle you will soon get comfortable within.

If you have a large family this could be the vehicle for you. It will swallow four adults comfortably and five would not complain. Add in to the equation a massive boot and you can appreciate that this is a vehicle that is going to win friends.

Unusually in this current period and certainly with the clock ticking on ICE engines Mazda have equipped the CX-60 with a 3.3 litres diesel engine. This is a break in tradition where most manufacturers A large family car with plenty of space for everyone are reducing engine size and reducing cylinders and turbo charging them. The engine was a responsive willing companion at all times. The the gear lever to control it all Apple Play and Android Auto automatic gearbox was an absolute delight with 200ps available are also available, a heated leather steering wheel and on my The performance figures of a 0-60 in marginally just over 8 seconds particular derivative the facility not just to heat the seats front and a top speed where legal at 132mph, the vehicle despite its size and and passenger, but also to cool them down, by a wonderful weight is no slouch, Mazda suggests a combined fuel figure could be cooling system in built in to the seats. mid-50’s, and during a week with extensively varied terrain I achieved, There can be little doubt Mazda have for years and years according to the computer 52 mpg, which for a vehicle of this sheer size been overlooked by people going to purchase a car and I have and capacity is exceptional. often suggested they should look at the Mazda range, most The standard fittings on the Exclusive-Line test car were extensive. It people only think of the Mazda-MX5. However, if you are would take more words that I am allowed to incorporate all the fitments, looking for a large family friendly SUV vehicle, go and check electrically heated and adjustable mirrors, front rain sensing wipers, out the CX-60. The on the road price starts at £42,990.

LED headlights with an auto level, a reversing “If you have a large camera, front and rear sensors, electric parking brake with hold. The list goes on and on and on. family this could be Safety has not been overlooked in any shape or the car for you. It will form and there are a multitude of air bags, together swallow four adults with alarms for front cross traffic alert, lane comfortably – five departure, cruise control is also a standard feature. would not complain.”

The infotainment is controlled and operated from a 12.3” colour centre display and it has a little twisty knob on the central pillar near

Bob is a devoted car and motor cycle fan, after a 30 year career as a Police motor cy-cle patrol officer and latterly as a Sergeant, patrolling the Midlands motorway, re-tirement beckoned and he embarked on writing about his love of transport.

Bob is a member of the Guild of Motor writers and also the Midland Guild of motor writers. In his spare time he rides a Royal Enfield Continental Gt motor cycle and drive a 1994 MGRV8.

November/December 2023 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 129

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR T

hanks to all our lovely readers who have been keeping in touch with us at Shire. It means so much to hear from you. Who doesn’t love a bulging postbag as we head towards Christmas!

We’ve printed a few of our favourites here, but please do keep them coming – we enjoy hearing your thoughts and opinions as well as bits of news you want to share. Please include a picture when you can and send to us at editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk.

If you’ve missed an issue or not been able to get to the shops before they were snapped up, we have copies we’re happy to send out.

Let us know which issue you’re after and we’ll pop it in the post – just end an SAE for £1.60 to Shire Magazine, PO Box 276, Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 1FR. An even safer bet is to subscribe to the magazine so you never miss a copy again! See page 118 for details.

Keep writing, keep emailing and keep reading Shire in 2024!

On song

On top form: Conwy Male Voice Choir

I wanted to share some great news: Colwyn Male Voice Choir is just back from competing in the Pan Celtic Festival in Ireland – where they won first prize!

It is a great achievement, having battled their way through the pandemic.

The choir is thriving, with membership in excess of 60 for the first time in its history. This is due in no small measure to its dynamic young conductor Gethin Davies, who continues to bring strong inspiration to the choir. If any readers want to hear their winning voices in action, you can catch them in Amlwch on Anglesey on Saturday 18th November.

Bernard Owen, Conwy Male Voice Choir

Take time out

Please urge your readers to join a national initiative this November started by a woman from Shropshire.

Steff Henson launched ‘techtimeout tuesday’ in 2020 and this year is partnering with Mental Health First Aid England to encourage more people and businesses to take a screen break on 28th November.

It is hoped that by getting on board, employees will boost both productivity and mental health.

The average adult spends over 11 hours a day interacting with digital media and 75 percent of Steff Henson employees believe their work performance is affected by multitasking and constant notifications. Steff is director of UK tech company Six Ticks, and believes limiting our screen time is the key to improving productivity and mental health, as between working at computers and having constant access to smartphones, it is increasingly hard to switch off. She is asking businesses to inspire employees to break the cycle. They just need to sign up at www.techtimeout.co.uk, share the resources and encourage their team to take some time away from tech on 28th November, whether it’s 10 minutes or all day.

Claire Pocock, Shropshire ThinkTank

Business boost

My Expert Team is a new project that offers small businesses access to expert training and advice. It sees prominent local names in sales, marketing and communications join forces to provide a virtual platform focused on supporting SMEs in North Wales and the North West.

Experts Martin, Caroline and Founded by Dawn Roberts, Dawn: ready to help md of Outperform Training & Coaching, a monthly subscription gives users access to hours of content on a wide range of topics. Members can access masterclasses, attend live networking events, interactive panel discussions and Q&As, and capitalise on services tailored to their requirements. Joining Dawn are Caroline Sanger-Davies, director and principal consultant at Experience Marketing in Hawarden, and myself, director of Radar PR, which has offices in St Asaph and Rhyl. Find out more at www.myexpertteam.co.uk Martin Williams, Radar PR 130 SHIRE MAGAZINE | November/December 2023

PICK UP THE JAN/FEB ISSUE AT THE SUPERMARKET FROM 1ST JANUARY READER F E E D B AC K

Hope the Shire team is all well. The magazine is an excellent read – hope its circulation is continuing to rise!

Many thanks, Lynne It’s hard to believe that once again we are nearly at Christmas. We have had a wonderful year flicking through your magazine and deciding what we want to do and where we shall explore.

Keep up the great work and the variety in your fantastic magazine please.

Tony Walker I love picking up my edition of Shire magazine as soon as it comes out, and with a little one on the way, I know I will be scouring those What’s On listings more than ever once I have maternity leave to fill and someone else to keep entertained!

Keep it coming, Shire!

Lorna Whitton, Abergele

Name that path!

In your September/ October issue there was a photo of a path in a forest, which came second in the competition. Would anyone be able to tell me where the forest is? Or could the reader who sent it in let me know? Thank you.

John Lloyd Thanks for getting in touch, John. The photo was taken by Fiona Jones, so we’re hoping she sees this and can let us all know! It looks a beautiful spot.

On the road to somewhere…

Luxury hampers, turkeys & organic meat boxes

Now available to order Use code NWM23 for 10% discount

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